Access Philippine Atlanta

The Presidential Awards for Filipino Individuals and Organizations Overseas

2012-01-12T09:09:00.000-08:00

More than 20 years ago, former President Corazon C. Aquino issued Proclamation No. 276 declaring
December of every year as Month of Overseas Filipinos as a tribute for overseas Filipinos and encourage
their participation in the development activities in the country. Recognizing their significant role in national
development, the Philippine government, through the Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO), conducted
various activities to honor overseas Filipinos for their outstanding achievements and contributions. One of these activities is the CFO Awards which was conferred by President Aquino to 34 overseas Filipino individuals and organizations in 1991.

In the same year, President Aquino issued Executive Order No. 498 institutionalizing the Awards naming it the Presidential Awards for Filipino Individuals and Organizations Overseas. The Executive Order specifically designated the CFO to develop an awards system for Filipino individuals and organizations overseas who have contributed, in the form of selfless programs and endeavors, to our country’s relief, rehabilitation and development programs.

Since its inception, the awards have so far been extended to 338 Filipino individuals and organizations from
44 countries. President Fidel V. Ramos conferred the first and second sets of Presidential Awards to 22 and 45 awardees in 1993 and 1996, respectively. President Joseph E. Estrada conferred the third and fourth sets of Presidential Awards to 30 and 59 awardees in 1998 and 2000, respectively. President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo conferred the fifth, sixth, seventh and eighth sets of Presidential Awards to 34 (with one special citation), 45, 48, and 31 awardees, in 2002, 2004, 2006, and 2008, respectively. President Benigno S. Aquino III conferred the last set of Presidential Awards to 24 awardees in 2010.

The Presidential Awards honors distinguished Filipino individuals and organizations overseas, who by their
exceptional achievements or humanitarian efforts, have given form and substance to Filipino excellence and the time-honored values of pakikipag-kapwa, pagtutulungan, and pagkakaisa.

The awardees include exemplars of Filipino excellence, individuals who have dedicated their work in the service of the Filipino people, stewards of community initiatives that promote cooperation for the common good, and advocates for the promotion and protection of the rights of others. Civil society organizations based overseas, whose programs for intervention have helped improve the lives of others, particularly the marginalized, will also be honored in observance of the timeless tradition of pakikipagkapwa-tao and bayanihan.

2012 Presidential Awards to Filipino Individuals and Overseas

2012-01-12T09:05:00.000-08:00

January 9, 2012

HAPPY NEW YEAR TO EVERYONE AND BEST WISHES TO ALL OUR COMMUNITY LEADERS AND MEMBERS OF VARIOUS ASSOCIATIONS!

KINDLY READ AND DISTRIBUTE THIS IMPORTANT INFORMATION TO AS MANY MEMBERS/ASSOCIATIONS/INDIVIDUALS THAT YOUR GROUPS COULD REACH. THE INFORAMTION IS FOR THE PRESIDENTIAL AWARDS TO FILIPINO INDIVIDUALS AND ORGANIZATIONS IN OUR AREA AND THE SOUTHEAST.

KINDLY READ AND FOLLOW THE REQUIRMENTS. IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS, YOU MAY DIRECT IT TO US/THE EMBASSY OR DIRECTLY TO THE E-MAIL BELOW (MS. NICLOE PANGILINAN).

THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR ASSISTANCE FOR 2011 AND WE LOOK FORWARD TO OUR ACTIVITIES IN 2012.

MABUHAY!

PHCG

ATLANTA

*******************************************

CFO LAUNCHES 2012 PRESIDENTIAL AWARDS

Since 1991, the Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) has spearheaded the biennial
Gawad ng Pangulo Awards. It was institutionalized under E.O.498 issued by former President
Corazon C. Aquino to honor and recognize overseas Filipinos who have selflessly supported
relief, rehabilitation and development programs in the home country. The roster of awardees
now includes some 338 overseas Filipino individuals, organizations and their foreign partners,
who have been a source of pride and have significantly contributed to the betterment of
Filipino communities here and abroad.

The Presidential Awards highlight the time-honored Filipino values of PAKIPAGKAPWA,
PAGTUTULUNGAN and PAGKAKAISA. The four (4) award categories:
• Lingkod sa Kapwa Pilipino (Linkapil Award) – for overseas Filipino associations or
individuals with exceptional or significant contributions to Philippine reconstruction,
progress and development
• Banaag Award – for overseas Filipino individuals or associations for their contributions
in advancing the cause of &/or have significantly benefited overseas Filipino
communities or sectors
• Kaanib Award – for foreign individuals or organizations with exceptional or significant
contributions to Philippine reconstruction, progress and development, &/or have
significantly benefited a sector or community in the Philippines, or advanced the cause
of overseas Filipino communities
• Pamana ng Pilipino Award – for overseas Filipinos who have demonstrated the talent
and industry of the Filipino and brought honor and recognition to the country through
excellence and distinction in the pursuit of their work or profession.

PROCEDURES
1. Any individual or organization (Filipino or foreign), based in the Philippines or overseas
may submit nominations for the awards.
2. Former nominees who are not recipients of the award may be re-nominated under the
same or different category.
3. Individuals or organizations may not be nominated in more than one category (the
Secretariat reserves the right to reclassify nominations as needed)
4. If an individual and his/her organization are nominated to the same category, the
primacy of the organization is upheld.
5. Only one award can be given to a person or organization for the same activities.
6. Awards may be given posthumously.
7. Nominations may be submitted to the Commission on Filipinos Overseas or to the
Awards Committee of any Philippine embassy or consulate. Online nominations can be
done through www.cfo.gov.ph.
8. Awards ceremonies will be held at the Malacanan Palace in December 2012.

DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION:
15 June 2012

Awards Secretariat
Commission on Filipinos Overseas, Citigold Center, 1345 Pres. Quirino Avenue cor. Osmeña
Highway (South Superhighway) Manila, Philippines 1007.

For more information, you can contact telephone numbers (632) 561-8291 or (632) 552-4700
local 761-767, and email addresses at info@cfo.gov.ph, jramos@cfo.gov.ph and
npangilinan@cfo.gov.ph.
xxxx

2012 OCA-Georgia Asian Pacific American Public Service Internship

2011-12-20T06:10:00.001-08:00

Dear OCA-Georgia members, APA community partners, and friends,

OCA-Georgia is pleased to announce the 2012 OCA-Georgia Asian Pacific American Public Service Internship to build a pipeline of APAs for careers in public service.

Georgia high school graduates and college students have an opportunity to learn about Asian Pacific American civic engagement, advocacy, and community service through 10-15/hour per week unpaid internship with OCA-Georgia during the school semester. Students will have an opportunity to be placed for two weeks in legislative offices at local, county, and state levels; government office at the local, county, state or federal levels; or with an Asian Pacific American non-profit organization in metro-Atlanta.

We invite you to forward internship details and attached application form to recent high school graduates or college students who you think might benefit from the internship program. The application deadline is Tuesday, January 10, 2012 and the OCA-Georgia APA Public Service Intern will be introduced at the "Year of the Dragon" Lunar New Year Banquet on Saturday, January 21, 2012.

Please send comments/questions to the OCA-Georgia APA Public Service Internship Committee via tricia.sung@oca-georgia.org or ocageorgia@yahoo.com.

Thank you!

Tricia Sung
President, OCA-Georgia
Embracing the Hopes & Aspirations of Asian Pacific Americans

Join US on Facebook!
www.facebook.com/OCAGeorgia

OCA-Georgia Announces 2012 APA Public Service Internship to Build a Pipeline of Georgia Asian Pacific Americans for Public Service Careers

PURPOSE: OCA National has an internship program which brings students to Washington, D.C. to learn about advocacy and gain real-world experience in various government and non-profit offices. Georgia high school graduates and college students have an opportunity to learn about Asian Pacific American civic engagement, advocacy, and community service through 10-15/hour per week unpaid internship with OCA-Georgia during the school semester. Students will have an opportunity to be placed for two weeks in legislative offices at local, county, and state levels; government office at the local, county, state or federal levels; or with an Asian Pacific American non-profit organization in metro-Atlanta.

POSSIBLE PROJECTS WILL INCLUDE:

This internship would give the intern an opportunity to learn about OCA and its work in the Asian Pacific American (APA) community, APA issues, Asian Pacific American civic engagement, advocacy, community service, fundraising, event planning, marketing/public relations as well as valuable, real-world experience through assisting with the following:

February 9: 2012 Asian Pacific American Legislative Day at the Georgia State Capitol
March 16: Southeast Regional Summit - White House Initiative on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders
Voter Registration Drives & Voting Rights Education
Asian Pacific American Law Enforcement Community Assistance Panel
Asian Pacific American Family Health & Safety Days

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Current full-time undergraduate student or recent graduate

• Strong attention to detail required/ detail-oriented

• Strong organizational skills;

• Strong communication skills, verbal and written

• General administrative and office experience;

• Strong computer skills using Windows Office software, Outlook and database software

• Motivated and dedicated to OCA and its mission as well as a commitment to APA community

NOTE: This is a 10-15/hour per week unpaid internship. Students have the option of applying for college internship credit through their schools. Students are responsible for their own transportation & housing.

HOW TO APPLY:

Deadline: Tuesday, January 10, 2012, 11:59pm EST
How to Apply: Submit completed application (email tricia.sung@gmail.com for the application form), a cover letter, resume, two professional references, 500 word writing sample, high school transcript, SAT/ACT scores, and any other supporting documents are to be received no later than Tuesday, January 10, 2012, 11:59pm EST to tricia.sung@oca-georgia.org. Note: OCA-Georgia APA Public Service Intern will be introduced at the Saturday, January 21st "Year of the Dragon" Lunar New Year Banquet. Recipient must be able to attend the banquet. See: https://www.facebook.com/events/113012342145795/

ABOUT OCA-GEORGIA

OCA-Georgia chapter was founded in 1983 and is the local chapter of OCA (originally founded as the "Organization of Chinese Americans" but is now focused on Asian Pacific Americans). OCA is a national civil rights organization established in 1973 with over 80 chapters and affiliates dedicated to advancing the social, political, and economic well-being of Asian Pacific Americans. To fulfill its mission, OCA has established the following goals: to advocate for social justice, equal opportunity and fair treatment; to promote civic participation, education, and leadership; to advance coalitions and community building; and to foster cultural heritage.

Lost & Found: Philippine passport of Ms. Aileen Grace Soliven

2011-12-06T14:24:00.001-08:00

December 2, 2011 Atlanta, GA

A lost & found passport of Ms. Aileen Grace Soliven was turned over to Philippine Honorary Consulate's office by the management of Georgia Aquarium.

Please contact the Consulate's Office:
Address: 3340 Peachtree Road NE Suite 1685, Atlanta GA 30326
Tel: 404.239.5747
Fax: 404.233.4041
Consul General: Raoul R. Donato
Assistant to the Consulate: Lori Davis | Email: atlphilconsul@gmail.com

The recent Philippine Consular Outreach in Atlanta served over 140 Filipino Americans

2011-11-17T10:00:00.001-08:00

Photo by: G. RaghebNovember 5, Buford, GA - The Philippine Consular Outreach in Atlanta served over 140 applicants from Georgia and its neighboring states. An estimated 10% scheduled appointments however were a no-show. The consular services rendered were mainly for passport renewal, application and replacement. A few were also processed that day for report of marriage, birth, notary and authentication of legal documents. During the outreach, Consul General Domingo P. Nolasco lead the oath taking for Filipino Americans who have reacquired their Filipino citizenship under the dual-citizenship process. Nolasco also took the opportunity to give a briefing on the Save Our Industries Act campaign. At the end of the day, the consulate received over 100 signatures (in hard copy), in support of the campaign. The Philippine Embassy Consular Outreach headed by Consul General Nolasco was the second outreach in Atlanta, Georgia this year. Earlier during the year, the same outreach was held in March at the same location at RV Industries, serving over 200 applicants. He indicated that the next consular outreach program will again take place early next year. He reminds the community to visit the official website of the Philippine Embassy, to receive timely and updated information. Through a coordinated effort by the office of Philippine Honorary Consul General Raoul “Ray” Donato, the Philippine Embassy and its Atlanta Honorary Consular volunteers, many Filipino and Filipino-American families within the southeastern region continue to receive valuable service from the Philippine government. “Nagpapasalamat ako sa inyong lahat for a JOB VERY WELL DONE! You are all outstanding in giving your Saturday time to benefit your Filipino Americans in the Southeast. I am proud of the organizers and the volunteers!” – PHCG Donato(Acknowledgment: C. Alberto, G. Ragheb & B. Manaois)

GFI and The Philippine Honorary Consulate General announces nomination process for 5th YLA

2011-11-03T09:32:00.000-07:00

Photo taken December 3, 2010: (front) Jordan Alexander Moratin (10 yrs. old), Youth Leader Awardee 2010 with PHCG Raoul Ray Donato, Dodi Ward (pres. Fil-Am of Greater Atlanta), Esther Wilson (chair Federation of Philippine American Organizations in GA), Didi O'Connor (pres. Philippine American Chamber of Commerce in GA), Joanne Kelly Utt (Youth Leader Awardee 2009), Ana Blackburn (Dir. Galing Foundation, Inc.) & Alan Alberto (co-emcee)

The Board of Galing Foundation, Inc. and the Office of the Philippine Honorary Consulate General announces its nomination process to award a student for its 5th Youth Leadership Award:

Selection Guidelines

The Galing Foundation, Inc. Board or its designee will select a student from the three school levels:

1. Elementary Level
2. Middle School Level
3. High School Level

The student must be from the Filipino community whom you think have made valuable contributions to the school and community in the state of Georgia.

Procedure

Nominations may come from any resident of Georgia nominating any student of Filipino heritage attending a local school in the state of Georgia. Nominations must be in writing and must be mailed (electronically or via postal service) to Galing Foundation, Inc. by no later than November 20, 2011.

I. Selections: A selection committee composed of 3 distinguished members serving in the state of Georgia will make Final selection.

II. Criteria for selection will be based on the following:

A. Academic Excellence: Each nominee shall provide proof of academic achievement as well as active involvement in extra-curricular activities of the school; (copy of report card)

B. Community Service: Willingly volunteers his/her time and resources to schools and/or communities in Georgia when called upon.

C. Leadership: Demonstrates self initiative in promoting school and community's charitable activities. Exemplifies positive qualities and attitudes, which students can look up to;

D. Character: Demonstrates genuine concern for others. Sets a positive example for fellow students to emulate and displays an exemplary disposition towards others.

Award

Each honoree will receive a certificate of recognition and a minimum of $400 U.S. savings bond.

Announcement of Winners will be published via AccessPhilippineAtlanta and Galing Foundation, Inc. website on December 1, 2011.
The Awards dinner will be held on Friday, December 2, 2011 at 6pm at Canton House Restaurant (4825 Buford Highway, Chamblee, GA 30341).

*******************************

2011 GFI Youth Leadership Award

NOMINATION FORM

Complete Name: _______________________________________

Complete Address: ______________________________________

Date: __________________

Please provide a rationale in each area why this person has been nominated.

A. Academic Excellence:

B. Community Service:

C. Leadership:

D. Character:

Submitted by:
Tel. No.:
Email Address:

Upon completion of this form, please email it to: galingfoundation@yahoo.com

or mail it to:
Galing Foundation, Inc.
1050 Wilde Run Court
Roswell, GA 30075

For further inquiries, please call Ana Blackburn at (404) 925-2639

APAHS and StoryCorps invites members of the Filipino community to record life stories for the American Folklife Center at Library of Congress

2011-11-02T06:13:00.000-07:00

Dear Filipino American community members,

The Asian Pacific American Historical Society is partnering with StoryCorps Atlanta this year to record Filipino histories and would like to invite the Filipino community to participate in this effort!

StoryCorps provides Americans of all backgrounds and beliefs with the opportunity to record, share, and preserve the stories of our lives.

A StoryCorps interview is a 40-minute conversation between two loved ones (friends, family members, co-workers). Each conversation is recorded on a free CD to share, and is preserved at the American Folklife Center at the Library of Congress.
Suggested Donation: $25

We want you to be a part of StoryCorps by recording your story at StoryCorps Atlanta!

The available times for November are: Saturday, Nov. 5 at 1pm; Saturday, Nov. 12 at 11am, 12pm, 2pm, 3pm, 4pm
Additional times may be available.

If you would like more information, or to book an appointment contact Tricia Sung of the Asian Pacific American Heritage Society at tricia808@gmail.com.

Join the APA Historical Society on Facebook!
www.facebook.com/APAHS

H-1B Cap Count: “Master’s Cap” Reached and New H-1B Visa Availability Almost Exhausted for Fiscal Year 2012

2011-10-31T09:21:00.000-07:00

H-1B Cap Count: “Master’s Cap” Reached and New H-1B Visa Availability Almost Exhausted for Fiscal Year 2012

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has updated the count of H-1B visa petitions received and counted towards the H-1B cap for fiscal year 2012. The H-1B cap is only relevant for new H-1B petitions where the individual does not currently possess an H-1B visa. As of October 21, 2011, USCIS has received approximately 46,200 H-1B cap-subject petitions, counting toward the annual 65,000 “regular cap”. In addition, USCIS has received the maximum annual 20,000 petitions for foreign nationals with advanced degrees, with the result that the annual “Master’s cap” now has been reached. H-1B cap-subject petitions filed on behalf of beneficiaries who have obtained a U.S. master’s degree or higher now will be counted against the regular cap.

We expect that the H-1B regular cap will be reached by December 2011. If you are planning on pursuing a new H-1B visa on behalf of an employee, we recommend doing so immediately.

This article was drafted by the attorneys of Ogletree Deakins, a national labor and employment law firm that represents management. This information should not be relied upon as legal advice.

For questions, please contact

Sarah J. Hawk, Shareholder, Business Immigration
Ogletree, Deakins, Nash, Smoak & Stewart, P.C.
One Ninety One Peachtree Tower, 191 Peachtree St. NE, Ste 4800 | Atlanta, GA 30303 Telephone: 404-870-1791 | Fax: 404-870-1732
sarah.hawk@ogletreedeakins.com | www.ogletreedeakins.com
email: clientservices@ogletreedeakins.com

Nov. 4: OCA-Georgia Naturalization Ceremony Voter Registration Drive

2011-10-26T13:53:00.000-07:00

Dear Filipino American community friends in metro-Atlanta:

OCA-Georgia would appreciate your assistance in recruiting 10 bilingual volunteers (Vietnamese, Korean, Spanish, Chinese, Tagalog) for OCA-Georgia's naturalization ceremony voter registration drive at the Russell Federal Building in downtown Atlanta on Friday, November 4th from 10am - 1pm.

Here are volunteer event details:

What: OCA-Georgia Naturalization Ceremony Voter Registration Drive. Free training provided and OCA-Georgia t-shirt.
When: Friday, November 4, 2011 · 10:00am - 1:00pm
Where: Richard B. Russell Federal Building,75 Spring Street, SW, Atlanta, GA (Public transportation encouraged)
How: Volunteers may sign up with WooiYi Yin (wooiyi.yin@gmail.com) or Natasha Patel (tnatashapatel@gmail.com)

Thank you so much!
Tricia Sung
President, OCA-Georgia
Embracing the Hopes & Aspirations of Asian Pacific Americans

Rudy Pamintuan to be honored at the 6th Annual Who's Who in Asian American Communities Award Ceremony

2011-10-19T10:21:00.000-07:00

GSU Rialto Theater in Atlanta, GA on Friday, October 21, 2011 Rudy Pamintuan, Managing Director of Sherman Worldwide will receive the honor as one of the 2011 WWAAC Award given by the Who's Who in Asian American Communities Alliance Foundation. The award will be presented by Philippine Honorary Consul General Raoul "Ray" Donato

Growing up in Chicago, Illinois, Rudy Pamintuan spent his early days in a close-knit family in a middle class neighborhood. He learned entrepreneurism at a young age -- selling personalized greeting cards, cosmetics, and consumer goods door-to-door throughout grade school. As he attended high school, he spent much of his time working in retail giving him a greater knowledge and understanding of management, sales and business development.

He attended Indiana University and moved on to Loyola University to study communications and while living on campus maintained his desire to create and manage new businesses – having started a sandwich delivery service to students in the dorms and partnering in a door-to-door t-shirt retailing business.

While attending Loyola, Rudy and two of his friends noticed that there was a large and growing luxury market in Chicago which wasn’t being serviced by the media, so they raised some funding and began publishing Lake Shore Drive Magazine. After serving the market and building the business, the partners sold the magazine and all intellectual properties to a large international publisher.

Shortly thereafter, Rudy founded the firm Sherman Worldwide where after 16 years, Rudy continues as the Managing Director – leading the firm in its three areas of concentration – international development, government contracting and strategic consulting. Through his work at the firm, Rudy spends much time interacting with leaders of industry and governments to advise on innovative solutions. He is often invited to speak to various global audiences having spoken at prestigious institutions the White House, the Great Hall of the People and the United Nations

Rudy’s upbringing was heavily focused on public service, philanthropy and community. As a youth, Rudy volunteered much of his time serving as a volunteer at a local hospice and served food in various food shelters throughout Chicago. His mother was a major encouragement in this area -- constantly reminding him that success was not what you made or what you did, but rather what you did for those in greatest of need. His father, a doctor, serves the inner city – adding to Rudy’s family environment to serve others.

Currently, Rudy serves on several boards to assist a variety of communities in need – focusing on areas of global health, education, economic development and the Asian American and Pacific Island community. As a person of action, Rudy prefers getting involved in the programs of the organizations he supports and often leads humanitarian efforts post-natural disasters – South East Asian Tsunamis, Katrina, Haiti and Japan. His latest philanthropic efforts include a technology educational program for inner city kids in Chicago to bridge the digital divide and the construction of a hospital in an IDP camp (Internally Displaced People) in Kenya.

Rudy credits much of his efforts’ success because of the strong support of family and friends. He firmly believes that success is guaranteed when efforts are initiated by teams of talented people who are passionate and focused on the goal as a result, Rudy spends much of his time building teams of people who wish to make a difference. Connecting people to ideas has always been one of his biggest talents – as seen in his work and his charity.

Rudy enjoys mentoring and helping others as he was fortunate to have been taught and mentored by those who have inspired him. President Ronald Reagan’s best friend, Paramount’s A.C. Lyles continues to mentor Rudy through the years calling Rudy “ a great patriot who is always there to serve others.”

In 2004, Rudy was appointed by President George W Bush to serve as the Chairman of the President’s Advisory Commission on Asian American and Pacific Islanders. It was through his work with the Administration that Rudy first interacted with his role model Hon Norman Mineta through whom Rudy learned the importance of leadership and helping others – especially those within the community.

Rudy is excited to see the number of leaders grow from the Asian American and Pacific Islander community as he believes that the more leaders we have, the more we can inspire our community’s youth and through diversity strengthen our nation while helping those of greatest need here and abroad.

Rudy is a second generation Filipino. His father came from Pampanga and his mother from Cavite and both settled in the US in the late 60’s.

For more information, please visit www.wwaac.com

Oct. 21: The 6th Annual WWAAC Alliance Conference and WWAAC Awards

2011-10-13T18:45:00.000-07:00

THE 6th ANNUAL WWAAC ALLIANCE CONFERENCE & WWAAC AWARDS Friday, October 21, 2011 The Rialto Center for the Arts at Georgia State University 80 Forsyth Street, NW. Atlanta, GA 30303 404-413-9800 The Westin Peachtree Plaza, Atlanta 210 Peachtree Street Northwest Atlanta, GA 30303 (404) 659-1400 The WWAAC Alliance Foundation www.wwaac.com

The 2011 Who’s Who in Asian American Communities Honorees: Kathie S. Lee Vice President and Associate General Counsel Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., Rudy Pamintuan Managing Director Sherman Worldwide, JuEWong Chief Executive Officer Astral Brands, LLC, Koichi Wakata Astronaut WWAAC Community Spirit Award, State Farm Insurance WWAAC Corporate Champion Award

The WWAAC Alliance Foundation’s Mission:

The WWAAC Alliance Foundation is a non-profit 501 (C) 3 organization; created to advance and benefit the lives of Asian American Pacific Islanders; to educate the public and bring about awareness, understanding and appreciation of the diverse cultures and ethnic background of Asian Americans; to serve as a platform and source by recognizing, highlighting and honoring Asian Americans who have contributed greatly to various sectors of society; and to create, promote, and disseminate compelling and impactful information about the needs and concerns of the Asian community through events such as conferences, seminars, panel discussions, television programming, symposiums, and other charitable events.

Oct. 28: Philippine Ambassador Jose L. Cuisia, Jr. to speak at Georgia Tech

2011-10-13T14:50:00.000-07:00

October 13, 2011The Georgia Institute of Technology and the Philippine Honorary Consulate General in Atlanta invites you to join H.E. Jose L. Cuisia, Jr., Philippine Ambassador to the United States for a briefing on "The State of the Philippine Economy and its Relationship to the ASEAN Countries in 2011" on Friday, October 28, 2011 at 10am at Georgia Tech College of Management.This event is open to the public. RSVP by email: atlphilconsul@gmail.com

Nov. 5: Volunteer Opportunity at Philippine Consular Outreach

2011-10-12T15:24:00.000-07:00

Photo: Philippine Honorary Consular Volunteers at March 2011 Consular Outreach in AtlantaVOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITYThe coordinating team for the Philippine Honorary Consulate seeks volunteers to assist during the Philippine Embassy Consular Outreach on Saturday, November 5, 2011. The event will be held at RV Industries (1665 Heraeus Blvd., Buford, GA 30518)If you are willing and able to assist in the morning or in the afternoon, please contact Ces Alberto (404) 290-5416 email: ces_alberto@yahoo.com or Grace Ragheb (404) 786-7728 or email: gracer127@yahoo.com

Embassy of the Philippines Appointment Schedule

2011-10-11T09:28:00.000-07:00

Embassy of the Philippines
APPOINTMENT SCHEDULE
BUFORD, GEORGIA CONSULAR OUTREACH

DATE & TIME: 05 November 2011 ; 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon - 1:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

VENUE: RV Industries, 1665 Heraeus Blvd., Buford, GA 30518

REMINDER:

Passport applicants are no longer required to bring photographs since they will have their pictures taken using ePassport data capturing machines at the outreach site. However, they still need to bring other necessary requirements, such as their current passport, a photocopy of the data page of the passport, the passport application form which may be downloaded from http://philippineembassy-usa.org/uploads/pdfs/passport.pdf, an application fee of $60.00 (in cash or money order).

Passport applicants are advised to come to the venue 30 minutes prior to their appointed time.

Due to limited data capturing equipment and space, walk-in applicants for passports cannot be accommodated.

05 November 2011, Saturday
(STATION 1)

No.
TIME
NAME

1
9:00 AM
Ruth Salesa Register

2
9:07
Rodelyn Rabino Knevitt

3
9:14
Ma. Teresa Tuason

4
9:21
Manolo Brigino

5
9:28
Vickylynn Reymundo

6
9:35
Holden B. Castronuevo

7
9:42
Alfred Aloysius Opetina

8
9:49
Joy Sacdalan

9
9:56
Kayla Pimentel

10
10:03
Collin Willis

11
10:10
Generoso Parrenas

12
10:17
Reimbert Parrenas

13
10:24
Ronelia Aragon

14
10:31
Edgardo Manalastas

15
10:38
Luz Manalastas

16
10:45
John Joseph Manalastas

17
10:52
Renato M. Vergara

18
10:59
Irenio B. Ordona

19
11:07
Patrocenio Rainier Ella

20
11:14
Ashley Nicole Satur

21
11:21
April Rose Satur Erickson

22
11:28
Senieth Woznick

23
11:35
Patricia Santos Manalastas

24
11:42
Judy Anne Paula S. Manalastas

25
11:49
Mark Kabiling

26
11:56
Angela Kabiling

27
1:00 PM
Gloria Molina

28
1:07
Fernando Molina

29
1:14
Carmencita Santiago

30
1:21
Vivian Thompson

31
1:28
Patrick Villegas

32
1:35
Marie Fe Watson

33
1:42
Idelwyn V. Madrid

34
1:49
Laura de Guia-Pierce

35
1:56
Melyn C. Dollar

36
2:03
Alexandra de los Santos

37
2:10
Maria de los Santos

38
2:17
Patricia Jane Madrid

39
2:24
Adorable Aguilar

40
2:31
Julie Anne Gonzales

41
2:38
Teresa M. Ovas

42
2:45
Jeanly Cuna-anan Crandall

43
2:52
Nonita Fernandez-Williams

44
2:59
Maricel Snow

45
3:07
Michael B. Kabiling

46
3:14
Maria Criselda R. Kabiling

47
3:21
Mai Binuya

48
3:28
Lawrence Zapata

49
3:35
Irene Potts

50
3:42
Arlyn Hufrancia

51
3:49
Andrei Joshua Chapman

52
3:56
Jigie Clarete

53
4:03
Maricel Rendon

54
4:10
Marina Bustillos

55
4:17
Arsenia Cartree

56
4:24
Rodelio B. Lacandazo

57
4:31
Adoracion Caraguian Lacandazo

58
4:38
Lourdes Notrate

59
4:45
Inocencio Notarte

60
4:52
Cristina Maslog

61
4:59
Antonette Wollwerth

62
5:07
Eva Aguilar

63
5:14
Ruby Libre Clowers

64
5:21
Stehen Pasay Roble

65
5:28
Maria Paz Baguio Sulana

66
5:35
Eusebio Chiong Desuyo

67
5:42
Milagros Cailing

68
5:49
Marites O. Perez

69
5:56
Priscilla Perez

70
6:03
Pamela Rose Perez

71
6:10
Mark Lawrence Perez

05 November 2011, Saturday
(STATION 2)

No.
TIME
NAME

1
9:00 AM
Leo Evangelista

2
9:07
Angie Evangelista

3
9:14
Louie Estepa

4
9:21
Cora Rulon

5
9:28
Maricel Ellis

6
9:35
Ann LeGate

7
9:42
Edilberto L. Opetina

8
9:49
Geneveve O. Opetina

9
9:56
Stan Paz

10
10:03
Jerome Aragon

11
10:10
Luz Manalastas

12
10:17
John Manalastas

13
10:24
Gilbert Villanueva

14
10:31
Jacquelene V. Lath

15
10:38
James Carlos Manalastas

16
10:45
Jianelle Marie Manalastas

17
10:52
Jessey Anne Manalastas

18
10:59
Rea M. Vergara

19
11:07
Roderick Bacatano

20
11:14
Agnes Miguel

21
11:21
Rosemarie D. Valentine

22
11:28
Geraldine Brillo Town

23
11:35
Marfe Dillon

24
11:42
Bernie Que

25
11:49
Daniel Angarin

26
11:56
Corazon Angarin

27
1:00 PM
Rosa Ibasca

28
1:07
Hazel Gramatia Bayard

29
1:14
Mark A Labasano

30
1:21
Carlo Ongcangco

31
1:28
Grace Raghes

32
1:35
Enrick Ompico

33
1:42
Perfecta Ronquillo

34
1:49
John M. Ronquillo

35
1:56
Raymond Victoriano

36
2:03
Mary Grace Redolosa

37
2:10
Rotchelyn Weatherley

38
2:17
Jovita Aguilar

39
2.24
Liezl A. Martin

40
2:31
Freddie B. Aguillon

41
2:38
Alma Boatright

42
2:45
Marietta Rhodes

43
2:52
Rufel Abrogar

44
2:59
Erlinda Canete

45
3:07
Mardivite Lanoy Stewart

46
3:14
Cheryl Cadiz Crane

47
3:21
Katherine Hilario

48
3:28
Alice Westbrook

49
3:35
Maria Elchico Trinidad

50
3:42
Dante Alfinda

51
3:49
Leonila Sicat Battle

52
3:56
Ascle P. Ovas

53
4:03
Dina Wilson

54
4:10
Lilani Evans

55
4:17
Marina Taylor

56
4:24
Denorval Irving

57
4:31
Tess Castillo Diaz

58
4:38
Arlene Solamillo Alvarez

59
4:45
Shey Cabrera

60
4:52
Robert Cabrera

61
4:59
Hilda Tribo Illastron Han

62
5:07
Candelaria Monta Nowicki

63
5:14
Adela Unay Dunne

64
5:21
Jose Salvilla Fanlo Jr.

65
5:28
Arnold Camacho Olegario

66
5:35
Felisima Que Simpson

67
5:42
Rosa Proctor

68
5:49
Ma. Magdalena Ozon Bernardo

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Consulate Finder

Ten Philippine Missions throughout the US offer consular services. Each Mission covers a specific geographic region. To find out which Mission can assist you, what the hours of operation are and how to reach it please use our interactive Consulate Finder.

PHCG Atlanta Introduces Makers of Vita Coco to His Excellency Pres. Aquino in New York

2011-09-21T12:46:00.000-07:00

The Honorary Consul General of the Philippines Raoul "Ray" Donato met with
his Excellency President Benigno Aquino III in New York on Sept. 19, 2011.
He introduced Mr. Rommie Chan, the President of Fiesta Equities and also Mr.
Michael Kirban, the President of All Markets Inc. whose brand name is "Vita
Coco". The subsidiary in Atlanta Georgia of Fiesta Equities is RV
Industries, which is the distributor for the group of companies in the
Philippines. Fiesta group exports 1 million liters a month of coconut water
to the U.S. to Vita Coco. It is expected to quadruple in a span of 3-4
years. At the meeting were Secretary of Finance Purisima, Secretary of
foreign Affairs Albert del Rosario and Ambassador Jose Cuisia, the
Philippine Ambassador to the U.S.

Ambassador Jose Cuisia is scheduled to visit Atlanta on October 27 and 28th.

Please click on link for more.

Amigo Movie on Monday, September 26th

2011-09-19T06:42:00.000-07:00

Monday, September 26th:
Atlanta, GA – Landmark Midtown Theatre One show only!
Sponsored by Georgia Peace & Justice Coalition

AMIGO, the 17th feature film from Academy Award-nominated writer-director John Sayles, stars legendary Filipino actor Joel Torre as Rafael, a village mayor caught in the murderous crossfire of the Philippine-American War.

When U.S. troops occupy his village, Rafael comes under pressure from a tough-as-nails officer (Chris Cooper) to help the Americans in their hunt for Filipino guerilla fighters. But Rafael’s brother (Ronnie Lazaro) is the head of the local guerillas, and considers anyone who cooperates with the Americans to be a traitor. Rafael quickly finds himself forced to make the impossible, potentially deadly decisions faced by ordinary civilians in an occupied country.

A powerful drama of friendship, betrayal, romance and heartbreaking violence, AMIGO is a page torn from the untold history of the Philippines, and a mirror of today’s unresolvable conflicts.

For more information, click on amigo

Filipino American Talent Brandon Cantilang appears in "Sunday Morning", Premiere at the Fox Theater on Nov. 22

2011-09-14T07:52:00.000-07:00

Hello Fellow Kababayans:

Our 9 year old son Brandon Cantilang got the chance to appear on a movie "Sunday Morning Rapture." You are all invited to the red carpet/black tie/movie premiere night at the Fabulous Fox Theater on Nov. 22 at 7 p.m. Tickets are now on sale at ticketmaster or Fox Theater box office. Pls. go to www.endtouchmovies.net for details. He is also one of the artists of KF3 of arrow records and they will perform at Verizon's How Sweet The Sound event at Philipps Arena on Sept. 17 at 6 p. m.

Thank you and hope to see you there!

Jean and Francis Cantilang

The FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigation) is hiring Special Agents, Deadline to Apply is September 23, 2011

2011-08-30T09:32:00.000-07:00

The FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigation) is hiring Special Agents, Deadline to Apply is September 23, 2011

How To Apply:

You may submit an online application for this position by selecting the Apply Online button at www.usajobs.gov. You will first be brought to the USAJOBS online resume to create your basic application or to access one of your resumes already on file. After your resume is submitted, you will be brought to the agency website to submit additional information. The agency website address is: <http://www.fbijobs.gov/032.asp> http://www.fbijobs.gov/032.aspRequired

Documents: Please do not send additional information unless specifically requested by the FBI.Contact Information:

Applicant Coordinator email: agent.applicant@ic.fbi.gov

Agency Information:
Special Agent
935 Pennsylvania Ave., NW
Mail Stop GP-701
Washington, DC 20535

Key Requirements:
* Must be at least 23 and not have reached your 37th birthday on appointment.
* Must be able to obtain a Top Secret Clearance.
* Must possess a valid driver's license.
* Must meet physical requirements.
* Must pass all phases of the Special Agent Application process.
* Must commit to serving as a Special Agent for a minimum of three years.

Major Duties:
AS AN FBI SPECIAL AGENT, YOU MUST:
1. Adhere to strict standards of conduct, foremost being honesty and integrity.
2. Endure a rigorous background investigation, credit checks, and polygraph in
order to obtain a Top Secret Security Clearance.
3. Pass a Physical Fitness Test (PFT) at least twice during the application process and three times during training at Quantico. Upon graduation, agents will also be expected to maintain a level of fitness necessary to effectively respond to life-threatening situations on the job.
4. Pass a medical exam which includes, but is not limited to, meeting visual and hearing standards.
5. Spend the first 21 weeks of employment in training, away from your family,
while housed at the FBI Academy in Quantico, VA.
6. Upon graduation from the FBI Academy, be available to transfer to any of the FBI's 56 field offices, including San Juan, Puerto Rico or remote resident agencies (satellite offices) to meet the needs of the FBI. Special Agents rarely return to their processing office. Applicants should ensure their families are prepared and support this move.
7. Throughout your career, be available for temporary duty assignments, anywhere in the world, on either atemporary or a long-term basis.
8. Work a minimum of a 50-hr workweek,which may include odd hours, and be on-call 24/7, including holidays and weekends.
9. Carry a firearm and be willing to use deadly force if necessary.
10. Be willing and able to participate in arrests, search warrants, raids and other dangerous assignments, all of which may pose the risk of personal bodily harm.
LEARN MORE

Qualifications:

In order to meet minimum qualifications, applicants must pass every stage of the Special Agent Selection System (SASS), which includes: (1) A preliminary application screening to ensure eligibility,willingness and awareness of the Special Agent position (2) A three-hour exam consisting of Cognitive, Behavioral, and Logical Reasoning tests (Phase
I) (3) A written and oral language test (for applicants claiming a language ability)
(4) A 90-minute written exam (Phase II)* (5) A one-hour oral panel interview (Phase II)* (6) At least two Physical Fitness Tests (PFTs)* (7) A polygraph examination* (8) A comprehensive background investigation* *Note: Steps 4 through 8 are only afforded to those candidates deemed "Most Competitive."

Saturday, Sept. 17: Consular Services in Virginia Beach, VA

2011-08-22T14:47:00.000-07:00

Consular Services in Virginia Beach, Virginia

The Philippine Embassy in Washington DC is pleased to announce that it will provide consular services in Virginia Beach, VA on 17 September 2011 (Saturday).

Schedule: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon and 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Location: The Travel Outlet at 5347 Lila Lane, Suite 101, Virginia Beach, VA 23464.

Services to be rendered

Processing of application for issuance or renewal of Philippine passport
Authentication and notary services
Registration of Births and Marriages
Reacquisition of Philippine citizenship under the Dual Citizenship Law

Passport Services: Passport applicants are no longer required to bring photographs since they will have their pictures taken using ePassport data capturing machines at the outreach site. However, they still need to bring other necessary requirements, such as their current passport, photocopy of the passport data page, the passport application form which may be downloaded from http://philippineembassy-usa.org/uploads/pdfs/passport.pdf, an application fee of $60.00 (in cash or money order payable to the Philippine Embassy).

Notarial/Legalization of Documents: Please bring the document and an original valid photo ID w/ signature (e.g. Passport or State ID), and a photocopy each of the document and the ID. Fee is US$25 per document.

Report of Birth: The birth of a Filipino child in the US should be reported/registered with the Philippine National Statistics Office through the Embassy. See http://www.philippinesusa.info/index.php?page=consular-services-dc/faq-dc/#birth. This is needed if you wish to apply for a Philippine passport for a child born in the US of Filipino parent/s.

Report of Marriage: Applicants who wish to change their name from single to married name are required to apply for a Report of Marriage (ROM). The requirements needed to report a marriage between two Filipinos, or a Filipino and a non-Filipino national, solemnized under the jurisdiction of the Embassy from http://philippineembassy-usa.org/uploads/pdfs/Report%20of%20Marriage.pdf.

Dual Citizenship: Please accomplish the application form which could be downloaded from http://philippineembassy-usa.org/uploads/pdfs/Dual%20Citizenship.pdf and attach the photocopies of supporting documents and photos. Completed application forms must be submitted to the Embassy not later than 09 September 2011. Fee is US$50.

The application for Philippine passport is by appointment only. Please contact the Travel Outlet at tel. nos. 757-424-3311 during regular business hours to set your appointments.

October 1& 2: Consular Outreach Services in Orlando, Florida

2011-08-17T08:52:00.000-07:00

Consular Outreach Services in Orlando, Florida

The Philippine Embassy in Washington D.C. will conduct a consular outreach service in Orlando, Florida on 01 October 2011, Saturday, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon and 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. and 02 October 2011, Sunday from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

The Embassy’s consular team will accept and process applications for electronic passport (ePassport), notarization of documents, and registration of births and marriages.

Passport applicants are no longer required to bring photographs since they will have their pictures taken using ePassport data capturing machines at the outreach site. However, they still need to bring other necessary requirements, such as their current passport, a photocopy of the data page of the passport, the passport application form which may be downloaded from http://philippineembassy-usa.org/uploads/pdfs/passport.pdf, an application fee of $60.00 (in cash or money order).

Applicants who wish to change their name from single to married name are required to apply for a Report of Marriage (ROM). The requirements needed to report a marriage between two Filipinos, or a Filipino and a non-Filipino national, solemnized under the jurisdiction of the Embassy/Consulate General may be downloaded from http://philippineembassy-usa.org/uploads/pdfs/Report%20of%20Marriage.pdf.

The outreach program will also include an oath-taking ceremony on 01 October 2011 for individuals who will reacquire their Filipino citizenship under the Dual Citizenship Law. The oath taking will be only for applicants who will send their applications to the Embassy not later than 23 September 2011. Requirements, procedures and Dual Citizenship application forms may be downloaded from http://philippineembassy-usa.org/uploads/pdfs/Dual%20Citizenship.pdf.

The consular services with be held at the Doubletree Hotel Downtown, 60 South Ivanhoe Boulevard, Orlando, Florida 32804.

For details and appointment for ePassport application, please contact Flor Calata at tel. nos. 407 873-6639 from Mondays to Fridays 9:00 am to 6:00 p.m. For additional information, please email Atty. Val F. Dagani, Jr at juvinal@aol.com.

The 6th Annual Who’s Who in Asian American Communities Awards & WWAAC Alliance Conference

2011-08-17T08:47:00.001-07:00

The 6th Annual Who’s Who in Asian American Communities Awards
&
WWAAC Alliance Conference

Save the date!
Friday, October 21, 2011
The Rialto Center for the Arts at Georgia State University
80 Forsyth Street, N.W. Atlanta, GA 30303
404-413-9800

WWAAC Alliance Foundation announces the 2011 WWAAC Honorees!

Kathie S. Lee
Vice President and Associate General Counsel
Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc.

Rudy Pamintuan
Managing Director
Sherman Worldwide

JuE Wong
Chief Executive Officer
Astral Brands, LLC

Koichi Wakata
Astronaut
WWAAC Community Spirit Award

State Farm
WWAAC Corporate Champion Award

August 12 & 13: The Philippine Embassy’s Outreach Consular Services in Richmond, Virginia

2011-07-18T13:39:00.000-07:00

14/07/2011: Philippine Embassy’s Outreach Consular Services in Richmond, Virginia
The Philippine Embassy in Washington D.C. will provide consular outreach services in Richmond, Virginia on 12 August 2011, Friday, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon and 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., and on 13 August 2011, Saturday, from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon and 1:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

The Embassy’s consular team will accept and process applications for electronic passport (ePassport), notarization of documents, and registration of births and marriages.

Passport applicants are no longer required to bring photographs since they will have their photos taken using ePassport data capturing machines at the outreach site. However, they still need to bring the following requirements: their current passport, photocopy of the passport page that has their name and photo, the passport application form which may be downloaded from www.philippineembassy-usa.org, and an application fee of $60.00 (in cash or money order). Passport applicants without appointment cannot be accommodated.

The outreach program will also include an oath-taking ceremony on 13 August 2011 for individuals who will reacquire their Filipino citizenship under the Dual Citizenship Law. The oath taking will be only for applicants who will send their applications to the Embassy not later than 05 August 2011.

The consular services with be held at the Our Lady of Lourdes Church, 8200 Woodman Road, Richmond, VA 23228.

For details and appointment for ePassport application, please contact Mrs. Alice Daniels at (804) 672-6530 from 9:00 am to 8:00 p.m. only.

Philippine Embassy in Washington DC to Conduct Consular Services in Virginia Beach, Virginia

2011-06-14T15:21:00.000-07:00

Philippine Embassy in Washington DC to Conduct Consular Services in Virginia Beach, Virginia

The Philippine Embassy in Washington D.C. will conduct a consular outreach service in Virginia Beach on 01 July 2011, Friday from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon and 1:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

The Embassy’s consular team will accept and process applications for electronic passport (ePassport), notarization of documents, and registration of births and marriages.

Passport applicants are no longer required to bring photographs since they will have their pictures taken using ePassport data capturing machines at the outreach site. However, they still need to bring other necessary requirements, such as their current passport, the passport application form which may be downloaded from www.philippineembassy-usa.org, an application fee of $60.00 (in cash or money order) and a self-addressed stamped envelope (express mail with tracking number), or a prepaid courier envelope, with their application.

The outreach program will also include an oath-taking ceremony for individuals who will reacquire their Filipino citizenship under the Dual Citizenship Law. The oath taking will be only for applicants who will send their applications to the Embassy not later than 24 June 2011.

The consular services with be held at the Travel Outlet at 5347 Lila Lane, Suite 101, Virginia Beach, VA 23464.

For details and appointment for ePassport application, please contact the Travel Outlet at tel. nos. 757-424-3311 during regular business hours.

Press Office, Embassy of the Philippines
1600 Massachusetts Ave NW | Washington, DC 20036
T: 202-467-9432 | F: 202-467-9417

Asian Pacific Heritage Heroes Symposium

2011-05-25T13:40:00.000-07:00

Asian Pacific American Heroes

Lt. General Joseph Peterson's gift to Arturo Acuna for his service click here

Kevin Pratt presents documents to Arturo Acuna click here

Congratulations to the APA Heritage Committee and Thank You to our Speakers and Community Friends & Partners for the very inspiring Asian Pacific American Heroes Symposium on Saturday, May 21st at the National Archives at Atlanta.

The APA Heroes Symposium celebrated the many APA Heroes that we can find everyday in our local communities:

APA Heroes: Our Veterans
We celebrated our APA Heroes Veterans, many of whom are still unsung heroes in their 60's through 90's, like Veterans: Mr. Arturo Acuna, Dr. Manolo Apanay, Jimmy Doi, Michael Doi, Yick Dong, Richard Furukawa, George Jue, Lt. General Joseph Peterson (Ret.), Kevin Pratt, Alvin Rosado, Raymond Rufo. And those like WWII Airforce veteran Ngon T. Wong, who recently passed. According to the U.S. Census release on May, APA Heritage Month, there are 258,183 single-race Asian military veterans, with about one in three veterans was 65 years and older. This does not include numbers of multiracial Asians.

Lt. General Joseph Peterson's inspiring message about his rise to a career in military service and his efforts since retirement in 2010 to educate the public about past injustices of the Japanese American WWII internment perpetrated by those who judged Japanese Americans by their physical characteristics as opposed to their individual merits; the significant sacrifices by Japanese American WWII Veterans who give so many APAs and indeed all Americans the freedoms enjoyed today; and the ongoing measures to right past wrongs, with the fundraising efforts for Japanese American WWII Veterans to be able to travel to Washington, DC Congressional Medal of Honor Ceremony, being a wonderful opportunity for the community to directly assist in the reparation movement.

APA Heroes: APA Community Members & Their Ancestors
We celebrated our APA Heroes Community members and their ancestors who lived through and thrived during the great challenges wrought by segregation in the South, exemplified by the Augusta Chinese American community - one of the oldest Asian Pacific American communities in the South. We learned so much from the superb exhibition curated by Travis Tom, sponsored by the Augusta CCBA; the lecture given by Raymond Rufo about the history of the Augusta Chinese community; and the many stories shared by the Augusta Chinese community during conversations at the reception.

APA Heroes: Friends & Supporters of the APA Community
We celebrated our APA Heroes who are friends and supporters of the APA community who have served as advocates in helping to break barriers so that many APAs could rise to the top of their professions, exemplified by so many of the May 21st APA Heroes speakers such as Kevin Pratt whose daily work in archiving and researching military records are critical in helping to answer family questions about their ancestors lives and in the cases of Filipino Veterans, Kevin Pratt's work is important to help ensure Filipino Veterans have the necessary archival documents to successfully petition for WWII pension benefits. Raymond Rufo commended the contribution of Kellogg heiress in the purchase of the CCBA hall in Augusta and the longstanding friendship of the Augusta Chinese American community.

Military Appreciation Ceremony

Lt. General Joseph Peterson (Ret.) presented military appreciation momentos to APA veterans, veterans of all backgrounds, and family members of deceased veterans.
It was a wonderful recognition of the contributions and sacrifices of Asian Pacific American veterans, many surviving veterans in their 60s through 90s
Lauren Luetgers, 12-year-old Winner of 2011 Book Cover
Design Contest on Asian Pacific American Customs

Inaugural Exhibition on Augusta Chinese American History, one of the Oldest APA Communities in the South

Curated by Travis Tom, Augusta CCBA
Featured hundreds of never-before seen photos, newspaper articles, and articles of this unique APA community in the South
Received accolades of representatives from the National Archives, Georgia Humanities Council, and UGA Russell Library for Political Research & Studies
Plans are in the works for future exhibitions
Contact Travis Tom for more information: tntom70@aol.com
Special Exhibition of Military Uniforms by Asian Pacific Americans

Curated by David Furukawa, JACL Southeast
Featured military uniforms, photographs, and artifacts from a personal collection which documents the Japanese American involvement in military service
Plans are in the works for future exhibitions
Contact David Furukawa for more information: fooroo@mindspring.com

Inspiring & Thought-Provoking Messages

Lt. General Joseph Peterson challenged everyone to re-examine the Japanese American internment chapter in our nation's history and take action to record the stories of the Asian Pacific Americans in their lives. And to honor the Japanese American WWII veterans for their bravery and sacrifices in battle, while their families were held in concentration camps back home in the U.S. Donations can be made to bring the veterans and surviving spouse to Washington, D.C. this fall to receive the Congressional Gold Medal award.

National Japanese American Memorial Foundation (NJAMF)
ATTN: Congressional Gold Medal
4200 Wisconsin Ave. NW #106-236
Washington DC 20016
Donate online: http://njamf.com/index.php/donate

Kevin Pratt spoke about the Filipino soldiers, the Filipino Veterans Equity Act, and documentation for supporting pension benefits applications conveyed the importance and challenges of documents and archives. Pratt is an invaluable expert on military records available at the National Archives and the means in which family members can access their ancestor's military records, including health records.

National Archives: Researching Military Records
http://www.archives.gov/research/military/

Councilman Alex Wan's inspiring message of how APA demographics have changed the landscape and the barriers which need to be broken by APAs so that we do not remain categorized by others as either "Black" or "White" here in the South, we are our own unique category - "Asian Pacific American."
Raymond Rufo's insightful portrait of a dynamic Augusta Chinese American history which began with Chinese immigrant workers on the Augusta Canal in the late 1870's, to the early 20th century when many ancestors of the current Augusta Chinese American community first settled in the city to open laundries, grocery stores, and restaurants, the community's active engagement in the social fabric of Augusta, and the many barriers broken by the Augusta Chinese American community before and after segregation ended in Georgia. The Augusta CCBA has begun a community oral history project to document these stories.

Ahn Nguyen's message from the U.S. Census Bureau conveyed the dramatic increase of APAs in Georgia and the Southeast region, with implications for redistricting efforts and civic engagement in many jurisdictions.
Special Thanks
Special thanks to all the speakers, the Augusta Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association for partnering on this year's event, the co-chairs and planning committee members and supporting organizations.

The Planning Committee of the 2011 Asian Pacific American Heroes Symposium at the National Archives at Atlanta. Chair: Tricia Sung, Asian Pacific American Historical Society, James McSweeney, Official Liaison of the National Archives; Co-Chairs: Ronald Sagudan, U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs/Center for Minority Veterans; Travis Tom, Augusta Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association (CCBA); Mary Evelyn Tomlin, National Archives at Atlanta; Jill Severn, UGA Russell Library for Political Research and Studies. Planning Committee members: Eugenia Beh; Jeannie Chaya; Yoshi Domoto, The Japan-America Society of Georgia (JASG); David Furukawa, Japanese American Citizens League Southeast Region; Sachi Koto, Sachi Koto Communications; Maritoni Luetgers; Jan Levinson, UGA Russell Library for Political Research and Studies; Eric Lu, State Farm Agent; Ahn T. Nguyen, U.S. Census Bureau; Jamila S. Owens, GA Humanities Council; Michael Park, Korean American Coalition of Atlanta; Natasha Patel; Kim Reimann, GSU Asian Studies Center; Tina Raziano; Alvin Rosado, Atlanta VA Medical Center - Minority Veterans; Kathy Rufo, Augusta CCBA; Raymond Rufo, Augusta CCBA; Stacy Schroeder, Korean American Adoptee Network; Farooq Soomro, Asian American Heritage Foundation; Gail Thomas, Augusta VA – Minority Veterans; Linda Townsend-Green, VA Southeast Network; Alex Wan, Atlanta City Councilman; Arden Williams, GA Humanities Council; Lani Wong, National Association of Chinese Americans; Truman Woo, Augusta CCBA. Advisory Council Members: John Jung, Floyd Mori, Jill Severn, and George Wu.

National Archives at Atlanta
Asian Pacific American Historical Society
UGA Russell Library for Political Research & Studies
Augusta Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association
Asian American Heritage Foundation
The Japan-American Society of Georgia
Georgia Humanities Council
StoryCorps Atlanta

---------------

Come attend a special lunch meeting on Tuesday, May 31st at noon as we celebrate the close of May, Asian Pacific American Heritage Month and reflect on the future of Asian Pacific American history in the South. RSVP apaheroes@gmail.com for event details. Please post your photos on the APA Historical Society Facebook page! www.facebook.com/APAHS

--
Tricia Sung
770-601-8887

May is Asian Pacific American Heritage Month
~ Take 1 hour in May to document your family history! ~

May 21, 2011: Asian Pacific American Heroes: Contributions of Asian Pacific American Veterans to th American Dream Symposium

2011-05-14T06:10:00.000-07:00

Dear friends in the Filipino American community,

We would be honored by your presence at the Asian Pacific American Heroes: Contributions of Asian Pacific American Veterans to the American Dream Symposium at the National Archives at Atlanta on Saturday, May 21, 2011 from 10 - 2.

We are fortunate to welcome Lt. General Joseph Peterson, the first 3-star general of Native Hawaiian descent in the U.S. Army to offer a keynote speech on his road to military service where he commanded 85% of the US Army and also speak about the Japanese American WWII veterans and the Congressional Medal Award they will receive this fall in Washington, D.C.

Kevin Pratt, military records expert from the National Archives will be speaking about the Filipino American veterans and the Filipino Veterans Equity Act. In speaking with Mr. Dick Aquino from the Filipino American Veterans Association in Florida, there are still many surviving Filipino veterans who have pending cases and they all rely on archival records at the National Archives to substantiate the claims. We are privileged to be able to spread awareness about this ongoing fight and highlight the strengths of the Filipino community and friends who have and continue to support our veterans.

We will have a children's program during the event about Japanese Americans during WWII. And opportunities to learn about Asian Pacific American history.

Also, during the reception & exhibition viewing from 1-2, we will have on exhibit the Filipino Veterans Equity Act and Rescission Act, and believe attendees would be interested in speaking informally about the Filipino American community's efforts to fight for veteran pension rights.

Book Cover Design Contest on Asian Pacific American Customs (Deadline: May 14)
Please help to share news about this exciting contest for middle school and high school students to showcase their artistic talents as they design a book cover highlighting Asian Pacific American Customs here in the US South. Book covers will be on display at the May 21st symposium and winners will receive a special commemorative book on Asian Pacific American Veterans. Contest is sponsored by TnTOm Design, Inc. and the UGA Russell Library.

The planning committee greatly looks forward to welcoming you and your family, and your community for your contributions to the American Dream!

Best regards,

Asian Pacific American Heritage Month
Planning Committee

Tricia Sung
Executive Director
Asian Pacific American Historical Society
770-601-8887

https://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=150824778318075

Commentary: "Handog Ng Pilipino Sa Mundo" (Filipinos Gift to the World)

2011-04-29T13:38:00.000-07:00

The revolt in Egypt (during the 1st week of February this year)-- images of bloody faces, passionate cries for democracy and the endurance of fearless protesters carrying nothing to protect themselves but prayer and a desperate hope to end oppression -- brings to mind the people power revolution in Manila in February 1986, 25 years ago. (LUISITA LOPEZ TORREGROSA, Correspondent)

The Egyptian people took 18 days to pull this stunt, 14 days longer than the EDSA revolution of 1986, because in my opinion, they did not have the right components that we had in the Philippine People Power Revolution. The EDSA revolution had four key figures who came together at the right time which contributed to the swift happy ending and resulted to be the Filipino people’s gift to the world.

The 1st key figure was Defense Minister Juan Ponce Enrile, a government cabinet member, the first one to announce defection from the Marcos regime. Mr. Enrile had the respect of the other cabinet members and government officials, it was his responsibility to win the confidence of the civilian government officials.

The 2nd key figure was, Vice Chief of Staff General Fidel V. Ramos who came out to support the cause of Mr. Enrile and the Reform the Armed Forces Movement (RAM). General Ramos’s goal was to win the confidence of the other military officials.

The 3rd key figure was Cardinal Jaime Sin of the Catholic Church. It was his appeal for the Filipino people to go out that night and create a buffer between the government forces and the Enrile/Ramos factions in Camp Aguinaldo and Camp Crame. The initial hundreds of first responders to his appeal quickly grew to hundreds of thousands in a matter of hours and swelled to over a million by the second day of the revolution.

The 4th and last key figure was Mrs. Corazon “Cory” Aquino, widow of the martyred Senator Benigno Aquino. Supposedly winner of the February 7, 1986 snap presidential election, Mrs. Aquino was the natural successor to the presidency, should the revolution succeed.

All four key figures contributed to the swift, successful and peaceful transition of power, which all transpired just within four days!

Fast forward 25 years later, Benigno Simeon Cojuangco Aquino III, also known as Noynoy or Pnoy, is 5th Philippine President after the 1986 revolution. Noynoy was catapulted to the presidency because of the death of Mrs. Cory Aquino, the same way she was catapulted to the Philippine presidency as a result of the assassination of Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino.

Now former President Fidel V. Ramos, comes to Atlanta annually for the last umpteenth years. With the recent worldwide developments being credited to the 1986 people power revolution, on the occasion of President Fidel V. Ramos’s 2011 visit to Atlanta, on the year of the 25th anniversary of the Philippine People Power revolution…

The Philippine American Chamber of Commerce of Georgia, Inc. invites you to look back in history, & join us for a dinner with
Former Philipine President Fidel V. Ramos
May 20, 2011, Friday
6:30 pm
Country Club of Roswell
2500 Club Springs Drive
Roswell, Georgia 30076
770-475-7800

Please RSVP with choice of entrée by May 15, 2011:
Didi O’Connor: didi.oconnor@harrynorman.com
Dinner: $50.00 per person

Contributed by: Willy Blanco
Married to Edwina Blanco and father to Nicole (20 yrs. old) and Kevin (12 yrs. old)
Southeast Territory manager for Beckart Environmental, Inc.
President, PACCGA (Philippine American Chamber of Commerce in GA)

PHCG Donato reaches out to Philippine nationals and Fil-Ams affected by severe weather

2011-04-28T14:22:00.000-07:00

Dear All,

Please circulate to your constitutents in Georgia/Alabama/Tennesee to determine if there are any Filipinos, or Fil-Ams that were affected by the Severe weather conditions that are prevailing in the Southeast. Alabama was particularly hit (10% of the entire State has no power as of this morning) especially in the Montgomery area. Please e-mail any Fil-Am organizations in Alabama and elsewhere to report to us for any casualties (hopefully not) or assistance required by Filipinos or Fil-Ams.

Thank you for your efforts,
R.Donato
PHCG

Philippine Honorary Consulate Office:
Address: 3340 Peachtree Road NE Suite 1685, Atlanta GA 30326
Consul General: Raoul R. Donato
Assistant to the Consulate: Lori Davis | Email: atlphilconsul@gmail.com

March 27: Dual Citizenship Briefing at Consular Outreach in Atlanta

2011-03-29T12:20:00.000-07:00

click here for video

Sunday, March 27, 2011

Buford, GA Philippine Embassy Consul-General Domingo Nolasco gives a briefing on dual-citizenship.

100 appointments were set and processed for ePassport, registration (birth & marriage) and authentication. Members of the community who attended the consular outreach program were estimated as 50% from Georgia and 50% from neighboring states such as Alabama and Florida-according to PHCG Donato.

A message of thanks from Philippine Honorary Consul General "Raoul" Ray Donato

2011-03-29T05:50:00.000-07:00

For video, click on play

In behalf of the Philippine Embassy Team and myself, I would like to thank you for assisting, speaking, co-ordinating in the "Consular on Wheels" event on March 27th, 2010. You all are doing a great service to our Filipino community in Georgia and other states of the Southeast. I am most appreciative that you all came (and those that sent their representatives) especially on a Sunday. I am truly proud of all of you.

Consular Outreach Volunteers:
Fe Abulencia, Ador Aguilar, Aaron Alberto, Angelo Alberto, Ces Alberto, GA Alberto, Roy Alberto, Tony Alberto, Janice Alcala, Winnie Alfelor, Ronald Baet, Mayette Bayani
Jeanly Crandall, Jake Guerrero, Nannette Guerrero, Cheryll Alberto-King, Steven King, Julie Kornder, Vladimir Lepante, Toni Luetgers, Bernadette Muyot, Denis Muyot, Ken Oroceo, Benjamin Pepito, Grace Ragheb, Shereen Ragheb, Chris Richards, Grace Richards, Jim Richards, Jun Sado, Robert Santiago, Marivic Silvestre, Doddy Ward

Community Welcome & Information Program Volunteers:
Moderator: Didi O'Connor
FACC (Filipino American Christian Church) by Winnie Alfelor
Fil-Am Assoc. of Greater Atlanta by Fred Vidanes
GFI (Galing Foundation, Inc.) by Toni Daya Luetgers
Immigration by Sarah Hawk, Esq. Partner, Fisher & Philipps, LLP
NaFFAA (National Federation of Filipino American Assoc.) by Marilyn Doromal
PACCGA (Philippine American Chamber of Commerce of GA) by Willy Blanco & Didi O'Connor
PAMAG (Philippine American Medical Association of GA) by Dr. Marily Beltran
PAWAG (Philippine American Women's Assoc. of GA) by Gigi Peters
PCFG (Philippine Charity Foundation of GA) by Venus Soriano
PNG (Philippine Nurses of GA) by Anita Granada
Social Security & SSRV (Senior Service Retirement Visa) by Jane Rolen

Host:
RV Industries

With my best wishes always,
R.Donato
PHCG

April 30: Philippine Consular Services in North Carolina

2011-03-24T11:22:00.000-07:00

Philippine Embassy in Washington DC to conduct Consular Services in Havelock, North Carolina

The Philippine Embassy in Washington D.C. will conduct a consular outreach service in Havelock, North Carolina on 30 April 2011, Saturday from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon and 1:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

The Embassy’s consular team will accept and process applications for electronic passport (ePassport), notarization of documents, and registration of births and marriages.

Passport applicants are no longer required to bring photographs since they will have their pictures taken using ePassport data capturing machines at the outreach site. However, they still need to bring other necessary requirements, such as their current passport, the passport application form which may be downloaded from www.philippineembassy-usa.org, an application fee of $60.00 and a self-addressed stamped envelope (preferably Express Mail with tracking number), with their application.

The outreach program will also include an oath-taking ceremony for individuals who will reacquire their Filipino citizenship under the Dual Citizenship Law. The oath taking will be only for applicants who will send their applications to the Embassy not later than 22 April 2011.

The consular services with be held at the Far East Emporium, 1008 East Main Street, Havelock, North Carolina 28532.

For details and appointment for ePassport application, please contact Ms. Rose Lutz at (252) 447-1255; (252) 259-0283 or Ms. Delicia Linteau at 202-571-8968 from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Mondays to Fridays.

The Community Welcome & Information Program Schedule

2011-03-23T07:38:00.000-07:00

The Philippine Honorary Consulate invites you to join the Community Welcome and Information Program on Sunday, March 27 on the day of the Consular Outreach in Atlanta (to be held at RV Industries, 1665 Heraeus Blvd., Buford, GA 30518).

The program's objective is to provide the public an opportunity to meet the leaders, learn about the various services, programs, events and benefits offered by the local community organizations, groups and associations.

Session I starting at 11am:

- Consular Matters by Phil. Honorary Consul General Ray "Raoul" Donato
- Immigration by Sarah Hawk, Esq. Partner, Fisher & Philipps, LLP
- PACCGA (Philippine American Chamber of Commerce in GA) by Didi O'Connor
- NaFFAA (National Federation of Filipino American Associations) by Marilyn Doromal
- PCFG (Philippine Charity Foundation of GA) by Venus Soriano
- PNG (Philippine Nurses of GA) by Anita Granda
- Community organization presentation

Session II starting at 2:30pm:
- Consular Matters by Phil. Honorary Consul General Ray "Raoul" Donato
- Immigration by Sarah Hawk, Esq. Partner, Fisher & Philipps, LLP
- Social Security & SSRV (Senior Service Retirement Visa) by Jane Rolen
- PACCGA (Philippine American Chamber of Commerce in GA) by Willy Blanco
- NaFFAA (National Federation of Filipino American Associations) by Marilyn Doromal
- PAWAG (Philippine American Women's Assoc. in GA) by Gigi Peters
- Community organization presentation

This public service event is organized by volunteers from the Filipino community in Atlanta.

For more information, please email: maritoniluetgers@yahoo.com or call (770) 410-7653

Save the Great Dates: Make a Difference in the Lives of Filipino Children

2011-03-22T06:40:00.000-07:00

Save the Great Dates:

3/27 - Volunteer Day for Consular Outreach & Community Welcome & Information Program
4/1 - Join GFI Open House with Ms. Jocelyn Robles & Got Talent Night at Taki
4/4 - Volunteer at Children's Workshop at Mabuhay & Mabuhay Anniversary
4/5 - Volunteer for Galing Tour at Fernbank Museum & Picnic at the Park
4/14 - Dine with GE at Altobeli's benefit dinner (Randy Barnes, Toni Luetgers, Jordan Moratin)
4/16 - Join Philippine participants of Dogwood Festival at Piedmont Park
4/17 - Volunteer for GFI School Supply Drive at NW Philam Picnic
4/30 - Volunteer at Cross Of Life International Dinner
5/14 - Join the Munting Tinig Award Ceremony & Family Picnic
5/27 - Volunteer to help pick-up donation from Queen of Angels school for shipping to Mindanao

For questions, please email: galingfoundation@yahoo.com

March 27: Inviting Leaders to Join the Community Welcome & Information Program at Consular Outreach

2011-03-19T17:58:00.000-07:00

The Philippine Honorary Consulate invites all organization leaders to participate in the Community Welcome and Information Program on Sunday, March 27 (Session 1 at 11am &/or Session 2 at 2:30pm) on the day of the Consular Outreach in Atlanta (to be held at RV Industries, 1665 Heraeus Blvd., Buford, GA 30518). The program's objective is to provide the public an opportunity to meet the leaders, learn about the various services, programs, events and benefits offered by the local community organizations, groups and associations. This program will also include a presentation on the following topics and a discussion:

- Consular Matters by Phil. Honorary Consul General Ray "Raoul" Donato
- Immigration by Sarah Hawk, Esq. of Fisher & Philipps, LLC
- Social Security & SSRV (Senior Service Retirement Visa) by Jane Rolen

For more details, please email: maritoniluetgers@yahoo.com

Philippine Embassy on Consular Outreach Program

2011-03-18T08:18:00.000-07:00

Philippine Embassy
Press Release
18 March 2011

The Philippine Embassy in Washington, DC wishes to inform the public that in view of its consular outreach programs to Montgomery, Alabama; Atlanta, Georgia; and Tampa, Florida, the Embassy will have limited capacity to process e-passports on the following dates:

* 25 March 2011 (Friday)
* 28 March 2011 (Monday)
* 29 March 2011 (Tuesday)
* 07 April 2011 (Thursday)
* 08 April 2011 (Friday)
* 11 April 2011 (Monday)

The Embassy would like to request passport applicants who have no immediate need for passports to refrain from filing their applications on the above dates.

The Embassy would like to assure the public that it will resume providing full consular service on workdays outside those schedules.

------------------------
Reference:

Press and Information Section
Email: info@philippinesusa.org
Tel. no.: 202-467-9432

2011 WWAAC Awards Nomination Deadline on April 1st

2011-03-08T15:17:00.000-08:00

2011 WWAAC Awards
Nomination

Deadline Approaching on April 1st!

WWAAC Honoree Nomination

Corporate Champion Award Nomination

Community Spirit Award Nomination

Visit www.wwaac.com for the 2011 WWAAC Awards Nomination criteria.

HCG Donato with the Atlanta Consular Corps and Governor Deal

2011-03-07T09:24:00.000-08:00

Photo: Georgia Governor Nathan Deal, Philippine Honorary Consul General Raoul "Ray" Donato & First Lady Sandra Deal

The Governors office honored the Members of the Consular Corps and the International Missions and Trade Offices on Tuesday, the first of March at twelve o'clock at the Governor's Mansion.

March 9: GFI Volunteer Opportunity

2011-03-07T08:01:00.000-08:00

March 9: GFI Volunteer Opportunity
Re: GFI Volunteer Opportunity

Seeking a few volunteers to come and join GFI at the 2011 CFC (Combined Federal Campaign) Information Session on March 9, 2011

9:00am – 12:00
United Way Building
100 Edgewood Ave. – 1st floor (Logan Room)
Atlanta, Georgia 30303

CFC will go over the 2011 applications, 2010 accomplishments and 2011 changes/updates. Please let me know if you plan on attending.

This is a great opportunity for those who are intersted in learning how they can help or serve as volunteer for Galing Foundation, Inc.

RSVP by Tuesday, March 8: galingfoundation@yahoo.com

Salamat Po,
GFI Board

Sunday, April 17: Northwest Phil-Am Assoc. of GA Easter Picnic, Membership & School Supply Drive

2011-03-07T07:54:00.000-08:00

Northwest Phil-Am Assoc. of GA invites you to its annual EASTER EVENT!

APRIL 17, 2011 (SUNDAY) FROM 12PM TO 5PM
BELLS FERRY PARK PAVILION, MARIETTA
2334 Bells Ferry Rd. Marietta, GA 30066

This is a potluck event, free and open to all members and friends of NWPA.
Please bring your favorite dish to share and a liter of soda.

WE WILL BE RENEWING OUR EXISTING MEMBERS AND WE ARE ALSO ACCEPTING NEW MEMBERS AS WELL. FEEL FREE TO COME AND JOIN THE FUN!

WE HAVE GAMES FOR CHILDREN AND ADULTS. EGG HUNTS FOR ALL AGES! PLS BRING A DOZEN OF PLASTIC EGGS PER FAMILY.

WE ARE ALSO CONTRIBUTING TO GALING FOUNDATION.
A Non-Profit Charitable Organization that promotes the importance of functional and English Literacy in rural areas in the Philippines. Please, we need your support to help these children in need. And you can help by donating some school supplies and books as well. All your donations is well appreciated.

We hope to see you all! Maraming Salamat Po!

For more information of the event, please call the following Officers:
May Kinnunen @ 678-431-9336
Lucy Andrade @ 770-875-8191
Hermie Ragan @ 678-267-4773
Fely McMichen@ 404-434-0492
Thess Spaid @ 678-591-9686

DepEd Office of the Sec: Luisitro confident that PH can achieve Functional Literacy for All by 2015

2011-03-07T07:52:00.001-08:00

DepEd Office of the Secretary: Luisitro confident that PH can achieve Functional Literacy for All by 2015
PRESS RELEASE

Luistro confident that PH can achieve Functional Literacy for All
by 2015

With barely four years away from the deadline to meet the education targets, the
Department of Education, through the Literacy Coordinating Council (LCC),
vows to strengthen efforts and spearhead policies and programs that will help
achieve the biggest goal of the country -- “Functional Literacy For All”.
“Yes, it can be done. If we work smartly and diligently together, we can deliver
on our promise,” as Education Secretary Armin Luistro pointed out that the
country’s commitment is not to simply achieve EFA but to provide basic
competencies to everyone to achieve Functional Literacy for All.

During the one-day dissemination forum of the 2008 Functional Literacy
Education and Mass Media Survey (FLEMMS) results, Luistro mentioned that,
“while these figures clearly show an increasingly literate world, they also tell us
that progress is excruciatingly slow. This means that one adult in five remains
illiterate.”

Based on United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s
(UNESCO) latest data which were released to mark this year’s International
Literacy Day, documents showed that almost 80 percent of the world's
population aged 15 years and over are now literate, including more women than
ever before.

“It is intolerable that around one in five of the world's adults are illiterate,” noted
Luistro.

It also shows that there are still more than 25 countries that by 2015, are
unlikely to achieve any more than a 30 percent improvement over their year
2000 literacy rates. Without major additional efforts to fight illiteracy, these
countries will account for 92 percent of the world's illiterate population in 2015.
Luistro furthered that the figures “tell us that meeting the goal set by the Dakar
Meeting in 2000 to halve adult illiteracy by 2015 will clearly be an uphill battle.
And unless an extraordinary effort is made, the percentage of illiterate adults will
fall by only another five percentage points by that date.”

UNESCO Director General said that, “There are still 800 million adult illiterates”
(UNESCO Headquarters, 2010). "How can we build equitable information
societies or thriving democracies if so many remain without the basic tools of
literacy? How can intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding prosper when
the literacy divide is so great? And how can poverty be eradicated when the
roots of ignorance are left undisturbed?"

With the situation posing a challenge, DepEd, LCC and the National Statistics
Office (NSO) have joined forces in conducting a functional literacy and mass
media survey among Filipinos. Gathered in 2008, the data spelled out literacy
achievement that will help provide a clearer picture of the scope of the country’s
illiteracy problem.

The very essence of the data gathered is to see “the picture, the
milestonesHhow much have we achieved? Which regions ranked highHor low
and therefore require urgent intervention? Which local communities need to be
given more attention? What policy and action agenda could be derived from
such a situation?,” stressed Luistro.

As Luistro discussed the results, he calls upon everyone – the Council and the
panel of discussants to help LCC prepare key strategies, recommend relevant
policies and map out concrete actions to push forward Functional Literacy for
All. “We need to mobilize strong political and financial support for education,
galvanize additional commitments and build a reinvigorated vision for the
national literacy agenda.”

He also challenged everyone to do their share by saying, “given the remaining
four years to achieve Education For All, I think all of us should be fueled by that
deep sense of urgency for us to be able to achieve that communal vision of
functional literacy for all Filipinos by 2015.”
END

March 27 Consular Service in Atlanta

2011-03-04T14:15:00.000-08:00

Community Advisory on March 27 Consular Service Outreach in Atlanta

Please be sure to call the Philippine Honorary Consulate office to receive the latest update and appointment schedule regarding the March 27 Consular Service Outreach.
Call 404 239-5740 between 12-5, Monday-Friday.

Philippine Embassy in Washington DC to conduct Consular Services in Atlanta, Georgia

2011-03-01T03:44:00.001-08:00

Philippine Embassy in Washington DC to conduct Consular Services in Atlanta, Georgia

The Philippine Embassy in Washington D.C. will conduct a consular outreach service in Atlanta, Georgia on 27 March 2011, Sunday, from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon and 1:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

The Embassy’s consular team will accept and process applications for electronic passport (ePassport), notarization of documents, and registration of births and marriages.

Passport applicants are no longer required to bring photographs since they will have their pictures taken using ePassport data capturing machines at the outreach site. However, they still need to bring other necessary requirements, such as their current passport, the passport application form which may be downloaded from www.philippineembassy-usa.org, an application fee of $60.00 (cash or money order payable to the Philippine Embassy) and a self-addressed stamped (Express Mail with tracking number) envelope, or a prepaid courier envelope, with their application.

The outreach program will also include an oath-taking ceremony for individuals who will reacquire their Filipino citizenship under the Dual Citizenship Law. The oath taking will be only for applicants who will send their applications to the Embassy not later than 18 March 2011.

The consular services will be held at RV Industries, 1665 Heraeus Blvd., Buford, GA 30518.

For details and appointment for ePassport application, please contact Lori Davis at tel. nos 404-239-5740 during office hours (12 noon to 5 pm, Mondays-Fridays).

------------------------
Reference:

Press and Information Section
Email: info@philippinesusa.org
Tel. no.: 202-467-9432

PHCG announces the Consular on Wheels in Atlanta on March 27, 2011

2011-02-25T09:10:00.000-08:00

To the Philippine Community and all Associations
Southeastern Region of the United States

Re: "Consular on Wheels" in Atlanta

Please be advised that there will be a "Consular on Wheels" Program on March 27th, 2011(Sunday) that will be attended by Consul General of the Philippine Embassy in Washington D.C.

Details of this event will be posted as soon as they become available.

Please mark your calendar and call the Philippine Honorary Consulate for any questions. Also, please check the website of the Philippine embassy at www.philippineembassy-usa.org for further updates.

Main: (404) 239-5747
Direct: (404) 239-5740
Fax: (404) 233-4041

Philippine Embassy News 23 February 2011

2011-02-23T10:26:00.000-08:00

Philippine Embassy
News Release
23 February 2011

President Aquino lauds Filipino micro-enterprise consortium's steps to uplift lives of Filipinos through microfinance

President Benigno S. Aquino III lauded on Tuesday Filipino micro-enterprise consortium PinoyME for its pioneering efforts at helping government’s poverty-alleviation programs by providing enterprising Filipinos in poor communities with innovative and cost-effective opportunities to link up with the mainstream market and thereby uplift their quality of life.

The President congratulated PinoyME for heeding his mother, former President Corazon Aquino’s call “to continue tapping into the spirit of People Power so that we may create better lives for our less fortunate countrymen.”

“And I must congratulate PinoyME for doing just that (heeding his mother’s call) through their continued work toward giving our countrymen more opportunities to defeat poverty through their own efforts—specifically through microfinance and micro-entrepreneurship,” the President said.

“These activities of PinoyME have been a significant help in our administration’s efforts to alleviate poverty. Through your help, less fortunate Filipinos are able to earn additional income. This reduces their dependency on state subsidies, and strengthens their resistance to external shocks such as calamities or family emergencies,” he added.

He likewise lauded other microfinance institutions “for taking the lead in promoting a lasting way of lifting the poor out of poverty.”

“In their own right, they are also revolutionaries,” the President said noting that “the risks they have taken in lending to the poor who have long been considered unbankable…has developed a unique model in which profits can be made while the lives of the poor are improved.”

“In short, they changed the paradigm of banking all over the world,” the President said.

He vowed that his administration would “continue the revolution that my mother started in making entrepreneurship among the poor a strategy for poverty alleviation.”

“We will make micro-entrepreneurship one of the key elements of our framework for poverty reduction and inclusive economic development. Most of all, we will work to institutionalize the National Strategy for Microfinance that was formulated in 1998,” the President said.

He added that he would make sure that the goodness brought forth by microfinance and micro-entrepreneurship would never be used for political patronage.

“And we will likewise consolidate the remaining credit programs for the poor under the more competent branches of government to make them more efficient and effective,” the President said.

***

Ochoa leads MOA signing for P12.9 billion hydropower project in Isabela

Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. on Wednesday led the signing of a memorandum of agreement (MOA) for the establishment of a P12.9 billion hydropower and irrigation project in Isabela which will generate 100 megawatts and irrigate 41,700 hectares of new areas to boost food sufficiency.

The MOA was signed at the launching of Isabela’s Local Convergence Agro-Enterprise Cluster, a project of the Convergence Initiative undertaken by the Departments of Agriculture, Agrarian Reform, and Environment and National Resources (DA-DAR-DENR), in partnership with the provincial government, Mindano Grains, PhilMaize, S/N Aboitiz, and the Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Once completed, the project will generate power for the towns of Ilaguen, San Agustin and Tumauini, and provide irrigation to new areas in the municipalities of Ilagan, Gamu, Jones, Tumauini, Cauayan, San Mariano, San Agustin and Benito Soliven.

“This project is not only a prime example of the rewards of the Convergence Initiative, but of Public-Private Partnerships the President and our administration are so optimistic about,” Ochoa said. “Such a project is necessary if we are to address one of the biggest issues facing us today: rice self-sufficiency.”

According to the Executive Secretary, the project is line with the Aquino Administration’s agenda of empowering farms and rural enterprises to become vital components in the government’s drive to achieve food security and more economic growth in the countryside.

“Our presence here today is evidence enough that we are taking this as an unwavering commitment to our people. We will uplift the welfare of our farm and rural workers, and, in the process, we will establish the systems and infrastructure so that food self-sufficiency is realized during and beyond our term,” Ochoa said.

To achieve this goal, he said, the government has started taking steps to move away from heavy dependence on rice imports and clear the bottlenecks in the bureaucracy that impede efforts of agencies to achieve the shared objectives.

One such step is the DA-DAR-DENR National Convergence Initiative, a multisectoral and integrated approach wherein three rural development agencies will undertake joint planning, programming and budgeting. They will also have a common or well-coordinated effort at all levels from the grassroots up to the level of the department heads.

“The projects we are kicking off today are examples of what can be achieved if the goals of the Convergence Initiative are realized,” Ochoa said.

Ochoa was joined by Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala, Agrarian Reform Secretary Virgilio De Los Reyes and Environment Secretary Ramon Paje and Isabela Gov. Faustino Dy III, NIA Administrator Antonio Nangel, Filipino-Chinese Chamber of Commerce Chairman Alfonso Uy, PhilMaize Chairman Roger Navarro, Mindanao Grains CEO Roderico Bioco, and S/N Aboitiz CEO Emmanuel Rubio at the signing ceremony that coincided with the week-long celebrations of the 25th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution.

Also present were Isabela Representatives Napoleon Dy, Ana Cristina Go, Giordi Aggabao and Rodolfo Albano Jr.; and Mayor Benjamin Dy.

“As we celebrate the EDSA Power Revolution, it is best to honor the event by devoting ourselves to making sure that we greatly reduce those who are poor, those who suffer the pangs of hunger and those whose poverty denies them and their children an opportunity to secure a bright and stable future,” Ochoa said.

***

Aquino urges youth to instill spirit of volunteerism for nation building

President Benigno S. Aquino III called on the Filipino youth to instill in them the spirit of volunteerism in serving others as he noted the very important role they play in nation building.

In addressing the participants during the Youth Day dubbed as “Pilipinas Got Bukas” at the Rizal High School in Pasig City on Wednesday, the Chief Executive urged the youth to practice the attitude of “concern for others,” which, he said, is a key to the nation’s progress.

The President stressed that the same spirit of “concern for others” was the evident formula used by Filipinos in ending the regime of dictatorship in 1986.

“Ang Edsa Revolution ay pagsasama-sama ng sambayanan… magkakatabi kahit di man magkakakilala pero pinanindigan na ngayon na ang panahon para tumayo, lumaban para sa kalayaan, may malasakit sa kapwa,” the President said.

“Yung malasakit sa kapwa ang magdadala sa atin sa pag-angat. Yung pag-unawa, pag-intindi, pakikisama, pag-aaruga sa ating kapwa… yan ang susi para mapabilis ang ating inaasam-asam na Bagong Pilipinas,” he noted.

President Aquino vowed to uplift the standard of living of the people, especially those underprivileged, to ensure that their children would stay in school and pursue education for a better future.

He said that a total of 13,000 additional classrooms will be built within the year 2011 apart from the health, shelter and financial support from the government in efforts to ensure a more equipped society in the near future.

“Plipinas Got Bukas” was organized by the Edsa People Power Commission (EPPC) in cooperation with the YES Pinoy Foundation headed by actor Dingdong Dantes for the 25th anniversary of Edsa People Power. It was participated in by Yes Pinoy members, “EDSA babies”, students, youth leaders and organizations with the aim to engage the youth towards volunteerism for change.

One of the event highlights was the gathering of thousands of young people on the oval of the world’s largest secondary school (Rizal High School) to form a human banner symbolizing their readiness to take on the future.

Also part of the celebration is the EDSA Babies Exposition featuring exhibits from various youth-oriented groups from the government and private sector. Top celebrities including Ogie Alcasid, Regine Velasquez and Jaya will perform for free at the SM North Skydome.

Later in the day, hundreds of top graduating high school and college students will gather for a night of fellowship that will feature musical performances and inspirational talks by young leaders also at the SM North Skydome.

***

Aquino asks Binay to study issue of Marcos burial at 'Libingan'

President Benigno S. Aquino III has asked Vice President Jejomar Binay to decide on the issue of burying the late President Ferdinand Marcos at the Libingan ng mga Bayani citing his “personal bias” on the matter.

In an interview with the members of media after attending the Youth Day dubbed as “Pilipinas Got Bukas” in celebration of the 25th anniversary of the People Power Revolution at the Rizal High School in Pasig City on Wednesday, President Aquino said he has decided to inhibit himself from deciding on whether former dictator Ferdinand Marcos Sr. should finally be allowed to be buried at the Libingan ng mga Bayani (Heroes’ Cemetery) in Taguig City.

He said he will let “somebody who has less personal attachment” to decide on it.

“I have talked to the Vice President and I asked him if he could be the one to decide on the case dahil sa akin nga maski ano pa ang desisyon ko sasabihin namemersonal ako,” the Chief Executive noted.

He said that Vice President Binay also has a strong opinion on the issue but his decision would gain less criticism on being bias. As a human rights lawyer, he helped found the Movement of Attorneys for Brotherhood, Integrity and Nationalism, Inc. (MABINI) before he was appointed as Officer-in-Charge of Makati City by then President Corazon C. Aquino.

The Chief Executive said that the Vice President would give it a fair hearing before coming up with a decision.

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Philippine Embassy on People Power, Peace Talks & Middle East

2011-02-22T08:35:00.000-08:00

Philippine Embassy
News Release
22 February 2011

People Power a continuing revolution to remind us of the responsibilities we must still collectively fulfill - P-Noy

As the nation celebrates the 25th anniversary of the People Power revolution, President Benigno S. Aquino III challenged Filipinos to remain steadfast in keeping with the principles of this “continuing revolution” in order to achieve “another possibility that has for so long eluded us: that of our nation fulfilling its great potential.

In his speech at the opening of a photo exhibit by photojournalist and Pulitzer prize winner Kim Komenich at the Ayala Museum Monday night, the President said the yearly EDSA People Power commemorations should serve to remind us of our “responsibilities that we must still collectively fulfill.”

“Since 1986, so many tyrants have been toppled with very little blood being spilled. The Filipino people made this possible. And while we gave that possibility to the world, another possibility has for so long eluded us: that of our nation fulfilling its great potential,” the President said.

“That is why I believe our yearly EDSA commemorations are more than just celebrations. They are reminders of the responsibilities we must still collectively fulfill,” he added.

“As we look back fondly on the 1986 EDSA Revolution, we must also remember to sustain that spirit of unity because our triumph back then only remains a triumph if we make certain that each and every Filipino lives free from the darkness of oppression today.”

He said his government’s programs to alleviate poverty, provide jobs, ensure justice and commitment to long lasting transparency and accountability within the ranks are some of the tasks being undertaken to address this.

“Make no mistake about it: we are a country in the midst of a continuing revolution, and we must all continue working for the sake of what our heroes fought for, and some died for,” the President said.

The people know that we are gaining ground: with the lifelines we are providing for the poorest of the poor; the jobs that will be waiting for skilled graduates; the justice we are ensuring for our citizens; and above all, the transparency and accountability we are instilling in our institutions,” he added.

He stressed that the Filipino is “capable of once again standing under that yellow banner of solidarity, of showing the world what the Filipino is capable of, and of allowing them to stand witness to the vibrancy and power of a people claiming their own destiny.”

He called on all Filipinos to help their government fulfill the promise of every revolution: “that the people will disperse and go back to their homes, with their heads held high and their hearts full; able to allow their children to inherit the future they rightfully deserve.”

***

Government, NDF agree on 18-month time frame for peace talks

The Government of the Philippines and the National Democratic Front (NDF) agreed on Tuesday to complete the peace talks in 18 months as a result of their first round of formal talks in Oslo, Norway.

After a six-year impasse, both parties have set the time frame that will eventually lead to winning the peace they have long wanted, as they concluded a week of successful hard bargaining on the negotiating table.

In a joint statement released during a press conference there, both panels agreed to complete the draft comprehensive agreements on the remaining items of the agenda, which include socio-economic reforms, political-constitutional reforms, and the end of hostilities and disposition of forces.

“The draft Comprehensive Agreement on Social and Economic Reforms may be completed and signed by the Panels in September 2011; the draft Comprehensive Agreement on Political and Constitutional Reforms may be completed and signed by the Panels in February 2012; and lastly, the draft Comprehensive Agreement on End of Hostilities and Disposition of Forces may be completed and signed by the Panels in June 2012”, the statement said.

Reciprocal Working Committees on social economic reform were also reactivated by both panels tasked to conduct three bilateral meetings in the second week of June and the second and fourth weeks of August this year, respectively.

The two panels have also agreed to form their respective Working Groups on the political and constitutional reforms which will be starting sessions in April 2011 and every two months thereafter.

A Joint Monitoring Committee of the Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law was reconvened by the Philippine government and the NDF panels.

Other related matters which were also discussed include the process for consolidating human rights and international humanitarian law complaints and the possible conduct of joint investigations.

To further boost confidence-building measures, the two panels released prisoners as a measure of goodwill apart from the unilateral ceasefires that has already been undertaken for the whole duration of the peace talks.

The GPH-NDF ceasefire agreement ended at Monday, Feb. 21, but both parties are open to declare another break in fighting in the future.

The Government of the Philippines panel was headed by chief negotiator Alex Padilla while Luis Jalandoni led the peace panel for the National Democratic Front.

***

Gov’t halts processing of work papers to Libya, Yemen & Bahrain

The Aquino administration has postponed the processing of work papers to Libya, Yemen and Bahrain in anticipation of an escalation of hostilities in these countries.

Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said in a briefing on Tuesday morning that Labor Secretary Erlinda Baldoz was scheduled to meet with the recruitment agencies anent her decision to hold the processing of papers indefinitely following the travel advisories issued earlier by the Department of Foreign Affairs.

Lacierda said the protocols are in place in Libya just in case tension escalates. “We have identified the exit point by land and sea; the sectoral coordinators who will be tasked to reach out to the Filipino communities have been appointed and evacuation plans have been mapped out.”

He said one such exit point is through Cairo, Egypt.

The hotlines for the Embassy in Manalma are: +973-17721234; the labor attache’s number is +973-17740951 and the welfare officer’s number is +973-17721908.

The Embassy hotline in Tripoli is +218-918244208.

Similarly, Lacierda said a strong earthquake hit Christchurch in New Zealand on Tuesday where 2,000 Filipinos reside.

The Philippine Embassy in Wellington has reported to the Department of Foreign Affairs that it had contacted the Philippine honorary consul Zedric Peter White who said he and his staff are now actively reaching out to the Filipino communities in Christchurch and nearby communities.

***

Aquino bares housing project for men in uniform

The government will build some 140,000 housing units for the military and the police until 2016.

In a message at the inauguration of the Department of Defense Museum on Tuesday, President Benigno S. Aquino III said 20,000 housing units will be completed this year.

The military and the police, he said, will only pay P200 monthly for a 36 sq. meter lot with a 21 sq. meter house in five years and P844 monthly on the 26th to the 30th year. He added that this will be the amortization for the P175,000 house and lot project.

There is also a bigger type with 40 sq. meter lot which will have a little higher monthly amortization.

The housing projects are located in Bocaue and San Jose del Monte in Bulacan; Binan, Trece Martirez in Cavite; and, Montalban and Barras in Rizal.

The President, speaking in Pilipino, said this is how the celebration of the 25th anniversary of the bloodless Edsa People Power in 1986 must be celebrated--- to give back to the Armed Forces of the Philippines the protection, care and security they provided the Filipino people 25 years ago.

He added that the day when the Filipino people achieved democracy through peaceful means was a day when the soldiers and policemen “best served the interest of the Filipino people.”

“It is now time to give back to the military and police by providing them houses they can afford to pay,” he said.

The President pointed out that the military and the police have gone a long way in securing and protecting the people. From calamities to disaster, they were always in the forefront to serve, he said.

“Twenty five years ago kayo ang yumakap at nagaruga ng taumbayan. Panahon na rin na ang taumbayan ang ang mag-aruga sa inyo,” he said.

The President said the spirit of Edsa must not only be rekindled in the four-day celebration but must be an everyday thing for the Filipinos.

He assured that if Filipinos are united, “the promises of Edsa will soon be achieved wholly.”

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In her own words: "A Community in Mourning" by Marilyn Doromal, NaFFAA R4 Chair

2011-02-19T10:23:00.001-08:00

In photo: Conrad Gutlay & Mrs. Ming Ramos, former First Lady

It was the elusive dawn of Feb.19, 2011 that the community of Georgia lost a dear friend and admirable community leader. Conrad Milano Gutlay passed on at exactly 4:47am. With him was his family so dear to us, as well. The pain has to move on. Our memories of Conrad will forever live in our hearts. All of us has been touched with this leader whose love and respect for his constituents goes beyond his passing.
Conrad is a living inspiration to us and the community. His contributions draw us to understanding the precepts of being a Filipino.

Viewing schedule to follow....
Again, words can not express our sorrow. Our earthly presence will be here to keep your dreams alive Conrad!

Paalam for now!!!!!
Salamat Po ACCESS!
Marilyn

Ambassador Gaa Feted at Historic Blair House

2011-02-19T05:51:00.000-08:00

Ambassador Capricia Penavic Marshall (third from left), US State Department Chief of Protocol, delivers her remarks for the guest of honor, H.E Willy C. Gaa (second from left), outgoing Ambassador of the Philippines to the US, as invited guests look on.

18 February 2011, Washington DC. Ambassador Willy C. Gaa was given the rare honor today of being feted with a farewell reception at the Blair House by the United States State Department. In attendance were guests from the diplomatic corps and several U.S. government agencies.

Ambassador Capricia Penavic Marshall, Chief of Protocol, cited Ambassador Gaa’s numerous accomplishments as the Philippines’ top diplomat in the U.S. and read a letter from Secretary Hillary Clinton, which expressed the American people and Obama Administration’s gratitude for the Ambassador’s service and efforts to strengthen the important partnership between the U.S. and the Philippines.

In his remarks, Ambassador Gaa cited the significant strides that have been made in building the U.S.-Philippines bilateral relations and in maintaining their relevance in the lives of our fellowmen. Ambassador Gaa noted that his tenure in the American capital is and will always be a source of personal pride and honor.

Located opposite the Old Executive Office Building of the White House, the historic Blair House serves as the official state guest house for the President of the United States. Foreign heads of state visiting the president are accommodated at the Blair House, as well as several American presidents-elect and their families, who spend as guests in the house the last few nights before their initial inauguration. END

Philippine Embassy: Aquino urges Rizalistas to continue the legacy of Jose Rizal *** Aquino calls nation to unite in prayer for Filipinos facing death

2011-02-18T09:46:00.000-08:00

Philippine Embassy
News Release
18 February 2011

Aquino urges Rizalistas to continue the legacy of Jose Rizal

President Benigno S. Aquino III on Thursday challenged the 12,000 strong members of the Knights of Rizal worldwide to continue the legacy of national hero, Dr. Jose P. Rizal, and help the government in the fight against poverty and wrongdoings in the public service.

In his speech keynoting the 18th Knights of Rizal and 2011 International Assembly and Conference on Rizal with the theme, “The New Rizals: Emerging Leaders Innovating Across Sectors (ELIAS) and Beyond Borders,” held at the centennial ballroom of the Manila Hotel, the President said that the three-day gathering was a reminder of the tasks that national hero, Jose P. Rizal, gave to the country.

“The real reason we are gathered here is not just because of an anniversary, not just because of history, but also because of the fact that we must remember and reignite the ideals that our national hero Jose Rizal gave his entire life to. Today is a reminder of the tasks that lay ahead all of us,” the President said.

The President admitted that he is aware of all accomplishments and achievements of the Knights of Rizal but they need to continue their dedicated work to fulfill the real dream of Jose Rizal for the Philippines.

“You are knights; complete with ranks and insignia, which are recognized by the Honors code of the Philippines as official awards of the Republic, and if you hold strong and continue your dedicated work, and if each and every person in this country does the same, then we will forge further onward into being the Philippines that Jose Rizal once dreamed of, that all of us continue to dream of,” he further said.

He also urged them to learn the lessons from the famous anecdotes about Rizal particularly when the Spanish doctor noticed that he was perfectly calm minutes before his actual execution.

“This is the power of knowing that one is doing the right thing, of having a clear conscience, and we must learn from this,” he said noting that each and every Filipino must have returned to much older, more classical, and much nobler ideals of the country’s heroes - the ideals of honesty, transparency and nationalism.

Being a renaissance man, he said, Jose Rizal was a writer, a doctor, a scientist, a teacher, and a linguist.

During the program, the President was conferred the Knight Grand Cross of Rizal, the highest degree of the Order bestowed on him for his uncompromising stand and initiatives for moral leadership, clean governance, commendable civic virtues and pro-people programs.

The same recognition was awarded posthumously to his late father, Senator Benigno Aquino Jr., on December 30, 1986.

The citation of the Order was presented to the President by Don Emilio Yap, KGCR, chairman of Manila Hotel, and Roger Quiambao, KGCR conference chairman while deputy supreme commander Reghis Romero II, KGCR, supreme chancellor Jeremias Singson gave the sash and medallion. The ceremonial sword was awarded to the President by Justo P. Torres Jr., KGCR supreme commander emeritus and Dr. Pablo Trillana III, supreme commander Order of the Knights of Rizal.

The Order of the Knights of Rizal was started on Dec. 30, 1911 when Colonel Antonio C. Torres organized a group for the purpose of commemorating in a fitting manner the execution and martyrdom of the country’s national hero, Dr. Jose P. Rizal.

The Order is a patriotic, civic, non-partisan organization chartered under Republic Act 646 which traces its genealogy to the association of the Caballeros de Rizal which was founded in 1911. The three-day assembly and conference is a banner occasion of the Rizalistas for the 150th birth anniversary of the country’s national hero.

***

Aquino calls nation to unite in prayer for three Filipinos facing death in China

President Benigno S. Aquino III called on all Filipinos to unite in offering prayers in hopes that top officials of the People’s Republic of China (PROC) would grant clemency to the three Filipinos in the death row for drug-related cases.

In a media briefing at the Palace Friday, Presidential Deputy Spokesperson Abigail Valte expressed the appeal of the President to the nation in efforts to push for the reprieve of his countrymen facing death penalty in China.

“The entire Filipino nation is united in appealing for leniency before the top officials of the PROC, so that our countrymen meted out with the death penalty may be granted clemency”, the Chief Executive’s statement read.

“May I call on all Filipinos, led by our religious leaders of all faiths to unite ourselves in prayer beginning today at sundown, at the pealing of the bell for the Angelus or during the most quiet and meditative times consistent with our respective faiths”, it added.

President Aquino assured that the government is exerting all possible efforts – the latest of which was his appeal to the President of China and the trip of Vice President Jejomar Binay to personally make an appeal as the three Filipinos await a most desired action: Stay the execution.

The government’s hope stemmed from an earlier success when it incessantly appealed to the leadership of China that resulted to the reprieve of Filipinos Myrna San Pedro and Estela Capunong.

The government publicly thanked China’s leaders for tempering justice with mercy holding the belief that it has found a soft spot in the hearts of Chinese ranking officials.

The President expressed high hopes that consolidated prayers will soar to the heavens to touch the heart of God – the God who “will make a way where there seems to be no way”.

At seven this morning, Vice President Binay left for China onboard Philippine Airlines flight PR358 bound for Beijing in a last ditch effort to save the lives of the three Filipinos there.

The Vice President, upon instructions of the President, will formally make his plea with the Chinese government for the reprieve.
"As instructed by President Aquino, I leave this morning for Beijing to appeal for clemency for our three kababayans on death row." VP Binay said in his pre-departure statement.

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Philippine Embassy: "Now is the time for peace" - Aquino

2011-02-09T09:27:00.001-08:00

Philippine Embassy
News Release
09 February 2011

"Now is the time for peace" - Aquino

Saying the Filipino is weary of all the fighting, discord, and senseless armed combat characteristic of the growing gap between the government and members of the rebel groups, President Benigno S. Aquino III called on all the stakeholders and concerned citizens to rally behind his administration and support the resumption of peace talks with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) which will take place this month in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

The President made the call during the “Ilaw ng Kapayapaan” (Light of Peace) candle lighting ceremonies held at the Quezon Memorial Circle Tuesday night.

The event is a run up for the upcoming resumption of peace negotiation with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) and the National Democratic Front (NDF).

“Many parts of our country have been covered in the darkness of armed conflict. For the longest time, this has brought about pain, fear, divisiveness and hatred between Filipinos,” the President said.

“Sawa na ang Pilipino sa bangayan. Sawa na ang Pilipino sa walang-katuturang bakbakan. Sawa na ang Pilipinong makita ang kapwa nilang Pilipinong nadadamay sa madugong sagupaan na wala namang kinahahantungan. Sawa na ang Pilipino sa gulo; kapayapaan naman(The Filipino is tired of conflict. The Filipino is tired of senseless armed combat. The Filipino is tired of seeing his fellow Filipino caught between this bloody conflict that is going nowhere. The Filipino is tired of discord; now is the time for peace),” he added.

The President described the ceremonial candle lighting as a “symbol of our oneness and our single desire to fan the flames of true peace.”

“Ang liwanag na hatid ng tangan nating kandila ay magsisilbing gabay upang hindi na muli pang maligaw sa marahas at madugong landas ang ating bayan (The light from the candle we hold this evening will be our guide to ensure that our path towards peace for our country will not stray again towards a bloody end),” the President said.

“Now is the time to fan the flames of peace. Now is the time to set aside our differences, anxieties and doubt. Now is the time for renewed peace talks which should yield a meaningful agreement between the government and rebel groups,” he stressed.

The President announced that the government will hold exploratory talks with the MILF from February 9 to 10 and formal talks with the NDF from February 15 to 21 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

He noted that the tripartite meeting between the government, the MNLF and the Organization of Islamic Countries to study the implementation of the 1996 Final Peace Agreement will be held from February 19 to 20 in Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

***

Ochoa says reforms in AFP ongoing

Reforms in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) are underway to institutionalize the much-needed improvement and transformation of the military, Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. on Wednesday said.

Ochoa said the reforms were in line with the Aquino Administration’s determination to address the problems and issues raised in the Armed Forces.

“We know that we really need to make some improvements and reforms and we’re doing that. I have talked to Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and asked him to line up actual and detailed reforms that we’re trying to institute now,” Ochoa said.

“My only appeal is for people not to drag everybody in the AFP or the entire institution into any of these (controversies). This is the more important thing,” he added.

The Executive Secretary explained that when Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin took office in July 2010, steps to tighten budget spending, process of procuring supplies and equipment, and internal controls were implemented.

These efforts are intended to ensure that transactions are transparent and that the AFP coffers will be safe from abuse and misuse, Ochoa said.

One of the key changes is the strict enforcement of the provisions of the Commission on Audit (COA) Circular No. 97-2002: Reinstatement With Amendments of the Rules and Regulations on the Granting, Utilization and Liquidation of Cash Advances Provided Under COA No. 90-331 to address the “conversion” of the AFP funds.

In line with this, the administration has designated special disbursement officers (SDOs) whose task is to attend to the financial requirements of the Department National Defense (DND) agencies and AFP units through the cash advance system.

The administration also has strengthened the internal control systems in all agencies and units under the AFP and DND by conducting a pre-audit on all procurement activities.

This process eliminates ghost deliveries of goods and services and complements the post-audit operations to be performed by resident COA auditors assigned to all procuring units of the AFP and DND.

At the same time, a memorandum of agreement forged by the DND Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) with the Coalition Against Corruption was recently amended to expand representation to committee proceedings to include members of the media.

Aside from representatives from the Bishops-Businessmen’s Conference for Human Development and the Makati Business Club, three members of the Defense Press Corps will sit as observers in the BAC deliberations.

***

Aquino urges Pinoys: Help PH bid for New 7 Wonders of Nature

PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Palawan: President Benigno S. Aquino III on Wednesday urged Filipinos help push the country’s bid for a spot in the search for the New Seven Wonders of Nature after a tour of the Philippines’ official entry, the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park (PPSRNP), here.

The President made the pitch after seeing for himself the spectacular sights at the PPSRNP which include various rock formations and flora and fauna.

Among the exotic animals seen at the park were monitor lizards locally known as “bayawak”, groups of wild monkeys, various species of fish and the local “tabon” bird, among others.

The President was welcomed by local officials led by Provincial Governor Baham Mitra; Puerto Princesa City Mayor Edward Hagedorn, Lt. Gen. Juancho Saban, Commanding General, WESCOM; BGen. Esteban Castro, Wing Commander 570th CTW; Commo Edgardo Tamayo, Commander NAVFORWEST; Capt. Alex Lopez, Cmdr., Joint Task Force Malampaya and PC/Supt. Artemio Hicban Jr. Regional Director PRO 4B and well wishers of around 1,000 from various sectoral groups.

During the media briefing at the Sheridan Resort and Spa after the tour, the Chief Executive encouraged the people to participate in the global polling through SMS by sending “PPUR” to 2861.

“Let us promote tourism to help create a better future for the Filipinos”, President Aquino noted.

Also part of the Presidential entourage were Tourism Secretary Alberto Lim, Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office (PCDSPO) Secretary Ramon Carandang and Fr. Ramon Jet Villarin, incoming president, ADMU.

After the President’s visit to the PPSRNP, several presentations were made relevant to the Pro-Environment theme of the government’s Eco-Tourism promotions. PPSRNP serves as launching pad and unifying element for the thematic campaign.

The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park (PPSRNP), formerly St. Paul Subterranean National Park, is located at Sitio Sabang, Barangay Cabayugan, in the Midwest coast of Palawan and some 81 kilometers northwest of Puerto Princesa City.

PPSRNP is reputed to be the longest navigable underground river in the world at a length of 8.2 kilometers that winds through spectacular limestone formations before emptying out into the South China Sea.

In 1999, the park was declared as a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Natural World Heritage Site.

It was also proclaimed “National Geological Monument in the year 2003 by the National Committee on Geological Sciences.

The PPSRNP is managed by the City Government of Puerto Princesa based on a program centered on environmental conservation and sustainable development, through a multi-sectoral Protected Area Management Board (PAMB). It has the distinction of being the first national park devolved and successfully managed by a Local Government Unit (LGU).

The PPSRNP is one of the finalists for the search competing with 27 other sites for the title.

The New 7 Wonders of Nature is a competition organized by the Swiss-based New7Wonders Foundation (government-controlled corporation), led by the Canadian-Swiss Bernard Weber.

The competition started in 2007 to choose seven (7) symbols of nature via global polling, immediately after the successful campaign to elect the man-made official New 7 Wonders of the World, in which more than 100 millions votes were cast.

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Philippine Embassy: LEDAC to convene Feb. 28 - Lacierda

2011-02-07T09:15:00.000-08:00

LEDAC to convene Feb. 28 - Lacierda

President Benigno S. Aquino III will convene the Legislative Executive Development Advisory Council, the first ever under his administration, on Feb. 28, Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said on Monday.

In a press conference in Malacañang this afternoon, Lacierda said the government’s 12 priority bills will be presented during the meeting.

The 12 priority bills, he said were crafted from the discussions and consultations made by the five working groups created by Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa namely: human development; infrastructure development; economic development; sovereign, security and rule of law; and good governance.

Below is the list of President Aquino’s priority bills:

I. Human Development (4 Bills)

a. An Act creating the Department of Housing and Urban Development (DHUD), defining the mandates, powers and functions, providing funds therefore, and for other purposes

b. An Act rationalizing the night work prohibition on women workers, thereby amending Articles 130 and 131 of Presidential Decree # 442 as amended, otherwise known as the Labor Code of the Philippines

c. An Act enhancing the curriculum and increasing the number of years for basic education, appropriating funds therefore and for other purposes

d. An Act providing a definite targeting strategy in identifying the poor, amending republic act no. 7875, otherwise known as The National Health Insurance Act of 1995 as amended, and for other purposes

II. Infrastructure Development (1 Bill)

An Act further amending certain sections of republic act no. 6957, as amended by Republic Act No. 7718, Entitled “An Act authorizing the financing, construction, operation and maintenance of infrastructure projects by the private sector, and for other purposes,” appropriating Funds for the said purpose, and for other purposes

III. Economic Development (1 Bill)

An Act rationalizing the grant and administration of fiscal incentives for the promotion of investments and growth, and for other purposes

IV. Sovereignty, Security and Rule of Law (4 Bills)

a. An Act to establish the archipelagic sea lanes in the philippine archipelagic waters, prescribing the rights and obligations of foreign ships and aircrafts exercising the right of archipelagic sea lanes passage through the established archipelagic sea lanes and providing for the associated protective measures therein

b. An Act to define the maritime zones of the Republic of the Philippines

c. An Act to strengthen the modernization of the Armed Forces of The Philippines, extending the implementation of the modernization program of the AFP, instituting necessary reforms in the AFP, amending for the purpose certain provisions of Republic Act No. 7898, otherwise known as the AFP modernization act and for other purposes

d. An Act resetting the date of the regular elections for elective officials of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), Synchronizing the ARMM Elections with the synchronized national and local elections 2013, amending for the purpose Republic Act No. 9333, Entitled “An Act Affixing the Date for Regular Elections for Elective Officials of the ARMM Pursuant to RA 9054” Entitled “An Act to Strengthen and Expand the Organic Act for the ARMM, amending for the purpose RA 6734, Entitled An Act Providing for an Organic Act for the ARMM, as Amended,” and for other purposes

V. Good Governance (2 Bills)

a. An Act instituting reforms in land administration

b. An Act to promote financial viability and fiscal discipline in Government-Owned or Controlled Corporations and to strengthen the role of the state in its governance and management to make them more responsive to the needs of public interest and for other purposes.

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Philippine Embassy: Palace bares list of priority bills

2011-02-07T09:13:00.001-08:00

Philippine Embassy
News Release
07 February 2011

Palace bares list of priority bills

Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. on Monday bared the list of priority bills that President Beningo S. Aquino III will present to the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC) meeting to be held this month.

Ochoa said 12 of the 17 proposed measures had already been drafted, while the remaining proposed measures were in the final stages of drafting.

In an interview over dzMM, the Executive Secretary said among the priority legislation Malacanang will submit to the LEDAC were the promotion of fiscal discipline in government-owned or -controlled corporations, reforms in the land administration and creation of the Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Amending the BOT Law, extending the modernization program of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, as well as defining maritime zones and establishing archipelagic sea-lanes in the country are also part of the legislative agenda of the Aquino Administration, he said.

According to Ochoa, the priority bills are envisioned to steer the country to human development, infrastructure development, economic development, sovereignty and security, and good governance—all of which are consistent with the 16-point agenda of the administration.

“We have clustered the priority bills under five areas of concern. Of these five key areas, human development is the primary, but we cannot discount or treat as independent one cluster from the other,” Ochoa pointed out.

At the same time, Ochoa said, the President has not changed his position on the proposed legislation for responsible parenthood.

“The President has not backtracked on this (Responsible Parenthood Bill). We are aware of the sensitivity of this issue and the President is keen on listening to all sectors concerned,” the Executive Secretary said.

He said this proposed bill was still being studied and consultations with concerned sectors and stakeholders were still ongoing and the results from which will be incorporated before coming out with a final version for consideration by Congress.

The 17 priority bills were selected from at least 180 proposed measures earlier received by the Presidential Legislative Liaison Office from various departments and the Joint Foreign Chambers of Commerce of the Philippines.

There were proposals that were dropped from the initial list of priority bills because these proposals needed further study. But these proposals may already be included in the next batch of priority measures to be submitted to lawmakers.

Ochoa noted that the President did not want to hold up the LEDAC meeting and the presentation of the draft bills while provisions of the other proposed legislation were being finalized.

***

Vice President Binay Dialogues with Business Groups

2011-02-06T03:50:00.000-08:00

Vice President Binay Dialogues with Business Groups

04 February 2011, Washington, D.C. –Vice President Jejomar C. Binay met with top business leaders of the US-ASEAN Business Council (USABC) and US Chamber of Commerce (USCOC) last February 3 and 4, respectively, to discuss current Philippine business climate and developments as well as the Aquino administration’s public-private partnership (PPP) program. The Vice President conveyed the Philippine Government’s good governance agenda and the many strategic opportunities for collaboration with key U.S. companies and investors.

“I come to the U.S. capital at a time of great hope and optimism in the Philippines, both in our political and economic life. We announced earlier this week that our GDP grew by 7.3% last year, the most robust growth we have seen in 24 years,” the Vice President remarked.

Ambassador Willy C. Gaa explained that “the roundtable provides an excellent platform to exchange views on opportunities for strengthening US-Philippines trade relations.”

USABC President Alexander Feldman offered his thanks to Vice President Binay and the Philippine business delegation for their willingness to engage American investors on key areas of mutual interest. “U.S. companies are long-term stakeholders in the Philippines, and are excited about what we’ve seen during the early months of the Aquino Administration,” said Feldman, “We look forward to continuing to work with our partners in the Philippines to support expanded investment opportunities and the continued growth of the economy.“

USCOC’s Vice President for Asia, Tami Overby, noted that “the Chamber companies welcomed hearing the Vice President and his colleagues describe some of the new economic initiatives launched by President Aquino’s government in recent months. U.S. company representatives also appreciated the Vice President’s expression of Philippine interest in joining the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) agreement down the road.” Ms. Overby added that “the Chamber will be happy to work with both governments to help make Philippine membership in the agreement a reality.”

The Philippine business delegation, led by Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) immediate past president and Honorary Chairman, Edgardo Lacson, included Mario Oreta, President of Alphaland Corporation, Luis Virata, Chairman of Coastal Road Corporation, Henry Sy, Jr., CEO and Vice Chairman of SM Development Corporation, Shirley Plaza, President of Woodland Real Estate Development Corporation, Elizaldy Co, Chairman of Sunwest Group Holding Company, Ronald Ang, Vice President of Sunwest Group, Kheng Tek Kong, Adviser to SM Development Corporation, and Jack Arroyo, Director of the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation. Mayor Jejomar Erwin C. Binay of Makati City, the Philippines’ premier financial district, also joined the business roundtables.

USABC’s member companies that joined the roundtable included the Coca Cola Company, Peregrine, Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold, AT&T, C&M International, GSK, Medtronic, Deloitte LLP, Oracle, Jacobs, and Eli Lilly and Company, while the member companies of USCOC that participated in the breakfast roundtable were representatives from Boeing, Caterpillar, IBM, and Philip Morris International. END

Philippine Embassy: OWWA and POEA Call for Nominations of OFW Sector Representatives

2011-02-05T12:32:00.000-08:00

OWWA and POEA Call for Nominations of OFW Sector Representatives

02 February 2011, Washington DC. The Embassy informs the public that the process has begun for the screening and selection of OFW Sector representatives to the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) Board of Trustees and the Governing Board of the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) pursuant to Section 32 of RA 9042 (Migrant Workers Act of 1995), as amended by RA 10022, and its Implementing Rules. The nomination process is now in full swing and both the OWWA and POEA are ready to accept nominations from qualified organizations. In this connection, below is the Call for Nominations from the OWWA and POEA.

Philippine Embassy News: Aquino assures GOCC dividends will be given back to the people

2011-01-28T10:29:00.000-08:00

Philippine Embassy
News Release
28 January 2011

Aquino assures GOCC dividends will be given back to the people

President Benigno S. Aquino III assured on Friday that the P29.25 billion dividends and other remittances turned over by 19 government-owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs) will be given back to the people in the form of social services, including anti-poverty programs.

“As you can see, we are working overtime to bolster our abilities to give back to the Filipino people what they have given us, the President said. “Uulitin ko po: Sila ang boss natin. We will do this, not only because this is what we are mandated to do, but more importantly, because this is the right thing to do.”

In his message at the ceremonial turnover of GOCCs check dividends and remittances at the Rizal Hall of Malacañang, the Chief Executive said dividends and other remittances from GOCCs will allow the government to frontload its expenditures and speed up the implementation of anti-poverty programs, among others.

He reminded the GOCCs that the money belongs to the Filipino people, who he said are the government’s shareholders, and not to the Board of Directors of GOCCs nor to officials of his administration

“The people are our shareholders. It is their interest that we have been tasked to protect. We give them what they own, and we give them the government they rightfully deserve: one that works for the public interest. It is in their trust that we hold our respective offices. Sila ang boss ko. Sila ang boss ninyo. We must always remember that,” he said.

Stressing that good governance is the cornerstone of his administration, the President said he is working on achieving a transparent and accountable government, worthy of the people’s trust thus the need to undertake reforms to enhance the ability of GOCCs to act as stewards of the people’s resources.

These reforms, according to the President, will be implemented with the help of Congress.

He noted that GOCCs have weak board governance, lack of transparency and disclosure practices, poor oversight and multiple and conflicting mandates.

Early on in his administration, the President, having discovered that GOCC board of directors receive exorbitant allowances, issued Executive Order No. 7 directing the rationalization of the compensation and position classification system in GOCCs and Government Financial Institutions.

“GOCCs will no longer be milking cows for politicians and their wards,” he said, adding that competent CEOs and Directors were chosen and they are expected to deliver improved services and finances in the GOCCs.”

The President said GOCC directors will soon be required to sign a performance contract with the Office of the President and their supervising secretaries so there will be basis to remove non-performing board members.

Moreover, the Department of Finance is developing an IT-based reporting system that will require full disclosure of several aspects of GOCC operations so the public will have access to the financial and operational results, renumeration policies, related party transactions, governance structures and policies, among others.

“Make no mistake about it: our positions are not our privilege, but an obligation placed by the people upon us. We promised to do, not only everything we can, but that we do it with honesty and with only the people’s welfare in mind. We pledged to serve them with commitment to professionalism and integrity, and they expect no less than this. We must not fail them,” he said.

A thorough review of GOCCs will be conducted during the first quarter of this year with the Department of Finance convening a strategic planning workshop with key GOCCs to strengthen coordination, and improve the oversight capabilities of the Government, and to draft a roadmap for the entire system of GOCCs.

The President added that in line with government’s zero-based budgeting, the continued operation of a GOCC has to be justified once the GOCC Governance Act of 2011, introduced by Senator Drilon, has been enacted into law.

“The time for patronage is over; now is the age of professionalism, meritocracy, and government institutions that are committed to the people… We will leave a country less poor, easier to invest in, and where people trust their government and all of its entities to work for their interests,” the President added.

***

GOCCs turn over P29.25 B in remittances

A total of P29.25 billion were remitted by 19 government-owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs) to the national government (NG) on Friday.

The checks, representing prior year dividends, the balance of the 2009 cash dividends following the completion of the Commission on Audit reports, and 2010 partial dividends pursuant to President Benigno S. Aquino III in ceremonies held at the Ceremonial Hall of Malacanang.

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas topped the list with a total of P14.23 billion in remittances representing prior year dividends of P9.31 billion and the balance of 2009 cash dividends of P4.92 billion.

The Land Bank of the Philippines remitted P4 billion representing the balance of 2009 dividends and partial dividends of 2010.

The Development Bank of the Philippines, turned over P2.8 billion while the Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corp. handed P2 billion representing payments for guarantee fees due and other payables.

The Bases Conversion Development Authority turned in P1.8 billion representing the government’s share in the sale of assets, and the Manila International Airport remitted P1.49 billion, representing P1.21 billion dividends and P292 million representing government share.
The other GOCCs that turned over their dividends included the Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (P2 million); National Home Mortgage Finance Corp. (P3 million); National Electrification Administration ((P14.5 million); Cebu Ports Authority (P40 million); National Development Company (P49.4 million); Clark Development Corporation (P100 million); Philippine Leisure and Retirement Authority (P140.6 million); Trade Investment and Development Corporation (P150 million); Philippine Economic Zone Authority (P221 million);

Philippine National Oil Company (P452.9 million); Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (P500 million); Philippine Reclamation Authority (P335 million); and Philippine Ports Authority (P650 million).

“This is a good start for the government but I believe this can be further improved,” Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima, in a press briefing in Malacanang, said.

He added that beginning this year, GOCCs will give their performance report to the President every January. This is similar to a stockholders meeting in private corporations.

He added that a good governance agenda for GOCCs will soon be implemented to further improve their performances and be at par with private companies.

He noted that GOCCs hold a total of $141 billion in government assets while equity amount to more than $41 billion or more than P6 trillion.

According to the records from the Commission on Audit (COA), there are 89 existing GOCCS.

Under the Dividends Law of 1994, GOCCs and GFIs are required to remit to the national government half of the income earned in each fiscal year. The remittance should be in the form of cash or in unencumbered or real estate properties with clean titles.

***

GOCC Governance Act among gov’t priority bills

Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima on Friday said the Government-Owned and Controlled Corporation (GOCC)Governance Act of 2011, a bill that will reform the structure and operations of GOCCs, is among the priority bills the Aquino Administration will ask Congress to pass.

In a press briefing in Malacanang, Purisima said the Aquino Administration wants to imitate Singapore 's and Malaysia's utilization of their GOCCs in the creation of opportunities for the people.

Senator Franklin Drilon, principal author of Senate Bill 2640 or the proposed GOCC Governance Act of 2011, said that there is a need for much-needed reforms in the government corporate sector to make it an effective vehicle in achieving social and economic progress.

“The days when the GOCC boards can act independently of the national government are over. We are confident that once this bill becomes a law, the excesses and abuses we saw in the operation of the GOCCs will be a thing of the past," Drilon said.

The bill proposes the creation of the Governance Commission for GOCCs (GCG) whose main task will be to conduct regular assessments and evaluations of the state firm's performance.

The GCG will also recommend to the President whether a GOCC should be reorganized, merged, streamlined, abolished or privatized.

The GCG will develop a new compensation and position classification system for all officers and employees of the GOCC. It will put a limit on the compensation of directors who had enjoyed excessive bonuses in the past, he added.

The bill makes it clear that directors are not entitled to compensation as directors but may be entitled to reasonable per diems only and emphasizes that directors are not entitled to retirement pay as seen in other GOCCs.

The GCG will also review the qualifications of individuals appointed as directors or elected as chief executive officer of the GOCC and disqualify those found unfit.

***

Authorities looking at all angles in Makati bus blast

Intelligence and police authorities showed President Benigno S. Aquino III the sketches of two people who sat on the sixth row where the bomb was placed in the bus that exploded last Tuesday based on artists and computer sketches extracted from witnesses. The two are being hunted as “persons of interest” (or POIs) who could lead authorities to those behind the bombing.

At the same time, they informed the President and the media of the heightened security efforts in Metro Manila and around the country to constantly ensure the safety of the people against terrorists and criminals.

Such efforts include: increased police visibility; deployment of 300 uniformed cops in all buses plying Epifanio de los Santos Avenue and some interior streets; coordinating with security agencies on the “target hardening” and helping them improve their security coverage of the different establishments in the country; organizing a barangay peacekeeping action teams to help the police in maintaining order in their respective areas.

Among those who briefed the palace reporters about security efforts being undertaken were: National Security Adviser Secretary Cesar Garcia; Chief Philippine National Police Gen. Raul Bacalzo and Gen. Nicanor Bartolome chief of the National Capital Regional Police Office (NCRPO).

Bartolome said that although the two “persons of interest” were said to be in row 6 of the bus, where the 81 mm mortar was lodged and detonated via a Nokia cellphone, ”we want to invite them for questioning about their knowledge of the bomb” that killed 5 people and injured more than 10 bus riders.

The physical descriptions of both POIs are: fair-complexioned, around 35 to 37 years old; 50 to 70 kilos and around 5 feet 5 inches to 5 feet 7 inches tall.

They boarded the bus in front of Heritage Hotel in Pasay City bound for Ayala and alighted at Malugay Street before Ayala Avenue.

“We are looking at all possible angles. So far no one has claimed responsibility for the bus bomb explosion unlike previous explosions which were readily claimed by certain groups,” Bacalzo said.

On Friday morning, the PNP-NCRPO reported fielding 372 uniformed policemen as bus marshals who boarded the buses in a terminal and then descended at another point only to board another bus. These marshals will identify themselves to the passengers and the bus driver and conductor before inspecting the belongings of passengers in looking for any suspicious and abandoned items.

Earlier, Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo announced a P1-million “bounty” for any person who could lead to the arrest of the perpetrators.

Bacalzo said the PNP earlier received a tip that the feast of the Black Nazarene on Jan. 9 would be “disrupted but we did not take the warning lightly. We augmented our police force during the said feast.”

A similar police augmentation will be done during the celebration of Feb. 3 of the Chinese New year ushering in the year of the metal rabbit. “We will be augmenting the police force to assist the Manila Police District, where most festivities will be held,” Bartolome said.

------------------------
Reference:

Press and Information Section
Email: info@philippinesusa.org
Tel. no.: 202-467-9432

Philippine Embassy News Release January 26, 2011

2011-01-26T07:18:00.000-08:00

Philippine Embassy
News Release
26 January 2011

Aquino visits victims of EDSA bus blast, vows to bring perpetrators to justice

President Benigno S. Aquino III assured the victims of a bus bomb explosion at Edsa Buendia in Makati that authorities will get to the bottom of the incident and vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice.

The Chief Executive made the assurance on Tuesday night when he visited the victims at the St. Luke’s Medical Center at The Fort in Taguig City and at the Ospital ng Makati.

The President also said the government will shoulder the medical expenses of all the victims and ordered the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to conduct a stress debriefing of the victims before they are discharged from hospital.

“The President was able to talk to the survivors and they related what they have experienced. They are still in trauma and cannot remember everything that happened,” said Social Welfare and Development Secretary Dinky Soliman, who accompanied the President.

Soliman said the youngest victim is 19 while the oldest is 76.

From The Fort, the President proceeded to the Southern Police District (SPD) headquarters, also in Taguig, to personally check the damaged bus, where the bomb explosion took place.

He was with Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Raul Bacalzo, Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) chairman Francis Tolentino, Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo, National Capital Region Police Director Nicanor Bartolome and Southern Police District Director, chief Supt. Jose Arne de los Santos.

The President, in a chance interview at the SPD, appealed to the public not to jump to conclusions yet as authorities are still investigating the incident.

He stressed that it is unfair to link the blast to the spate of car-jacking cases with murder and then paint them as reflections of a peace and order breakdown in the country.

The bus was moved to the SPD headquarters Tuesday evening to allow investigators from the crime laboratory to conduct further technical investigation.

***

Aquino cites business foundation’s role in uplifting lives of the poor

President Benigno S. Aquino III thanked all the officers and members of the Philippine Business for Social Progress (PBSP) for their social commitment and active participation in creating a meaningful social change and embracing the idea of true corporate social responsibility in uplifting the lives of the marginalized sectors.

Addressing the 40th annual membership meeting and foundation day celebrations of the PBSP with the theme: “Celebrating 40 Years of the Great Philippine Merger for Social Development,” the President hailed its officers and members for their continued assistance to provide relief and seek solutions to reduce, if not eliminate, the long-decade problem of poverty.

“To the Philippine Business for Social Progress, thank you for proving me right. Thank you for your social commitment and for actively participating in uplifting the lives of the vulnerable sectors of our society,” the Chief Executive said in his speech at the Dusit Thani Hotel in Makati City.

The President noted that the PBSP is very important for him because he worked in the organization after the assassination of his late father, Senator Benigno Aquino Jr.

“PBSP was not naive. PBSP took a realistic view of what needed to be done to accomplish its goal. It took the discipline that you need to run a corporation and to apply that discipline to the projects to various disadvantage communities,” he said.

The President pointed out that PBSP responded without hesitation when he called upon all Filipinos in his first State of the Nation Address in July last year to make a commitment and participate in the fight to reduce poverty in the country.

As a private sector, he said, PBSP plays a vital role on his call not just as an economic driver but also as catalyst for positive changes in the lives of the Filipinos.

In exchange for their continued partnership to the government, the President assured them that his administration “will continue to operate under the banner of transparency and accountability, under daylight, under the guidance of his parents that gave birth to the freedom and democracy that our people currently enjoy.”

Meanwhile, Manny Pangilinan, PLDT chair and PBSP chairman of the board of trustees, presented to the President the organization’s symbolic renewal of commitment and support to the administration’s development agenda.

Afterwards, the President presented the plaques of recognition to the pioneer members of PBSP, namely: Washington Sycip of the accounting firm SGV, Sixto Roxas III, Jose M. Soriano Jr. of Atlas Consolidated Mining, and Don Emilio Abello (posthumous) of Meralco.

The President also presented plaques of recognition for active service to Ambassador Bienvenido Tan Jr. of Philippine Tobacco and Modern Glass, and Ma. Luisa Perez-Rubio, respectively.

The recognition in creating impact to uplift the lives of the Filipinos was given to Angelo King Foundation for the 200th building they built.

PBSP, the country’s oldest and largest business group into social development, is a pioneer in Asia as a corporate-driven development foundation. Since its establishment in 1970, PBSP has been involved in corporate citizenship and social responsibility practices.

In the past 40 years of existence, PBSP has raised P5.2 billion, benefited 6.4 million Filipinos, and assisted over 6,500 social development projects such as in education, health, sustainable livelihood and micro, small and medium enterprise development, farmland area resource and coastal resource management, disaster coordination and risk reduction and caring for the rainforests and watersheds.

***

Quality education a vital tool for nat’l development, says Aquino

President Benigno S. Aquino III on Wednesday said quality education, which he described as a vital tool for national development and social change, must be able to develop not only competitive citizens but also people exposed to the realities of the world

In his keynote address at the 10th Biennial Conference of the International Council of the Universities of St. Thomas Aquinas (ICUSTA) at the UST Chapel, the President said this is the kind of quality education exemplified by the University of Santo Tomas (UST) that the government wants educational institutions in the country to follow.

“For four centuries, the University of Santo Tomas has educated the best this country has to offer,” he noted. “But when we look back at the long list of distinguished individuals this institution has produced, it is not merely education that sets them apart, but principles,” the President said

UST, the President noted, has made it a noble mission to instill Catholic principles to its students while at the same time giving them quality education, thus producing “people who have learned to balance their intellect on an unshakeable foundation of morality.”

“The formation of the human mind requires a curriculum that is not merely empirical, contingent and relative, but one that is humanizing,” he added.

The President said he is determined to work hard to give Filipinos a better life as he noted that many leave the country to seek jobs overseas due to lack of opportunities here.

“The duty to give back is not forgotten, but it is largely overshadowed by pressures of mere survival,” he said, adding that this is the reality most Filipinos face today .

To avoid this exodus, he stressed, the mismatch between job openings and university courses is now being addressed by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) through a temporary moratorium on the creation of new higher education institutions and programs, particularly in over subscribed fields such as in business administration, nursing, teacher education and hotel management.

He said the CHED has started to take action to review and fix the higher education institutions systems in the country to make them more efficient, such as forging ties between HEIs and employers which will ease the burden of job hunting on new graduates.
“As the youth of today grow more mature and become more politically aware, we must respond. We must reinforce their enthusiasm and efforts with the reward they deserve: a better Philippines, a home that they can both love and reside in, a place where they are not required to disconnect with their families just to earn a decent living,” he said.

The ICUSTA, founded in 1993 by Dr. Gerardo Rocha Vera, is committed to the promotion of truth and trust in reason and knowledge for serving humanity and the transmission of the Thomastic way of inquiry.

***

President Aquino vows to pursue DSWD anti-poverty programs

President Benigno S. Aquino III vowed to support and pursue the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s anti-poverty programs to ensure that the entire Filipino community will get to experience change in government.

Speaking at the DSWD’s 60th Founding Anniversary held at its headquarters in Quezon City on Wednesday, the President said these programs which include the Conditional Cash Transfer program, as well as the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan - Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS) and the Self-Employment Assistance Kaunlaran (SEA-K) will get appropriate government funding so that its implementation will reach more beneficiaries.

The Chief Executive stressed that funds for these programs against poverty would be used properly with absolutely no wastage.

“Sisiguruhin din nating walang tagas ang ating bulsa: walang masasayang na pera, at ang tanging makikinabang sa bawat sentimo ay taumbayan lamang,” the President said.

The Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) program also known as Pantawind Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) is a poverty reduction strategy that provides cash grants to extremely poor households to allow the members of the families to meet certain human development goals.

KALAHI-CIDSS is the Philippine government’s flagship poverty-alleviation project implemented by the Department of Social Welfare and Development through the financial support of the World Bank. It entrusts the poor with greater powers, supports poor LGUs in local development, and invests heavily on people, not just projects.

The Self-Employment Assistance-Kaunlaran (SEA-K) program is the Department of Social Welfare and Development's comprehensive approach and investment in social capital towards poverty alleviation. SEA-K, as the project is known, aims to provide the poor and disadvantaged sector of the society with timely access to credit and development opportunities.

------------------------
Reference:

Press and Information Section
Email: info@philippinesusa.org
Tel. no.: 202-467-9432

Philippine Embassy News Release January 21, 2011

2011-01-21T11:37:00.000-08:00

Philippine Embassy
News Release
21 January 2011

Aquino cites role of mosquito press in Martial Law

President Benigno S. Aquino III on Thursday lauded the mosquito press like Malaya for its crucial role in educating and informing the people during the dark days of the dictatorship.

In a speech at the 28th anniversary of Malaya Business Insight at the Manila Polo Club, the President paid tribute to the newspaper for its fearless reporting during martial law regime of former President Ferdinand Marcos.

“We are not just celebrating 28 years of Malaya today; we are celebrating Freedom—the freedom of the people, and of the press, to be made aware of events that affect their lives. Today, we commemorate how Malaya, together with the Filipino people, chose to fight back and rebuild an ailing country,” he said.

The President said that because of Malaya’s existence, democracy has been returned to the people and they’ve been able to inform the public on the real status of the country in the midst of dictatorial rule.

“As a student, I was made to read newspapers and be informed. But during martial law, what you could only be sure of as true in the papers is the date and the movie listings, because the rest of it was propaganda,” he recalled.

He mentioned that aside from his late father, martyred Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr. other oppositionists during that time were Pepe Diokno, journalist Chino Roces, Nap Rama and Teodoro Locsin. It was at that time Joe Burgos started a small newspaper, the We Forum that earned the distinction “mosquito press.” It was later renamed Malaya.

“We Forum, and later Malaya, was a catalyst in this historic struggle. It was one of the few voices brave enough to report my father’s murder and trigger the eventual demise of the dictatorship,” he said referring to its role when Senator Ninoy Aquino was slain at the Tarmac of Manila International Airport (now NAIA) upon returning from his exile in United States on August 21, 1983.

“Malaya is a continuation of that proud heritage. In the midst of darkness, your newspaper was there to bring forth light and to tell the truth,” he continued.

Quoting his late father, the President underscored the importance of the mosquito press in a free society. “According to my father, a free media is indispensable if a democracy is to function efficiently, if it is to be real. The people, who are sovereign, must be adequately informed all the time,” he said.

He said the “mosquito press” became loud enough to be heard in every corner of the country to inform Filipinos of wrongdoing in government and that a unified movement was needed for change to happen.

The 28th anniversary of Malaya Business Insight was a small gathering of selected personalities from previous administrations, business leaders, friends, families and relatives of one of the pillars of the Philippine media, Jake Macasaet, publisher of Malaya and president of the Philippine Press Institute.

“When I was invited to this gathering, I told myself, "How could I say no to Manong Jake (Macasaet) who is one of the pillars of the Philippine media?" And also, how can I possibly say no to this opportunity to pay tribute to the many heroes of the dark martial law era,” he admitted.

As the dark days of dictatorial rule are gone, the President assured that the present government will not tolerate muzzling the media or restricting them again.

“Rest assured, I will continue to do my job and follow through on what I pledged to our people. At the same time, I am counting on you to remain the publication that our people can believe in. I also ask you to be fair—to me, yes, but more importantly, to the Filipino people,” the President said.

“The Filipino people need and deserve an honest and transparent media—one that makes it easier for us all to work together and to achieve a high level of public discourse, which will, in the end, work for everyone’s benefit,” he added.

***

Palace allays fears on open skies policy

Domestic airlines will continue to have profitable operations despite the impending liberalization of the airline industry.

This was the assurance given by Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Office Secretary Ramon Carandang, in a press briefing in Malacanang on Friday.

Carandang said measures to protect the interest of local airlines will be included in an Executive Order on the open skies policy that will be issued by President Benigno S. Aquino in a few weeks.

“It will be a pocket open skies (policy),” Carandand said. “What we are trying to do right now is to try to find a balance of liberalizing air transport for the benefit of the public, and at the same time, not dealing a harsh blow to our domestic carriers. So, it has to be very measured and very deliberate when we begin to liberalize aviation. And I think, in a few weeks, you will see that EO.”

Carandand said some local airlines have expressed confidence that despite a liberalized environment, they will be able to compete. He cited Cebu Pacific, in particular, has said they have already begun to compete in other markets besides the Philippines.

“I think they’re confident that when we come out with it, there will be a balance between enhancing the value for consumers and providing an environment that the local airlines can still compete in,” he assured.

The Ninoy Aquino International Airport, Carandang said will most likely retain local airlines control and that there will be open skies for other major airports.

***

Aquino wins Award for Political Communications

President Benigno S. Aquino III is the recipient of this year’s prestigious Public Affairs Asia’s Gold Standard Award for Political Communications.

Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office Secretary Ramon Carandang, in a press briefing Friday, in Malacanang said Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda accepted the award on behalf of the President Thursday night in Hongkong.

Carandang said the President was recognized for his efforts to put government publications online specifically the Presidential Gazette which aims to put all historical documents emanating from the government on line.

In the Gazette, presidential speeches, pronouncements, among other presidential activities are posted online allowing accessibility to the public.

Carandang further said that the President was also recognized for his ability to communicate his message “Kung Walang Corrupt, Walang Mahirap” both domestically and internationally.

The President, according to Carandang, won over Lee Kuan Yew, Minister Mentor and first Prime Minister of Singapore and Ambika Soni, India’s Minister of Information and Broadcasting.

Public Affairs Asia, in its website said that: “These awards celebrate the achievements of corporations, governments and NGOs and identify those professionals, consultancies and governmental figures who are driving this important process of engagement and partnership in Asia Pacific.”

Public Affairs Asia is a network of senior government relations, public affairs and corporate communications professionals operating across the Asia Pacific region.

Last year, the award went to Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono for his exemplary work in addressing corruption in Indonesia through his Corruption Eradication Commission

***

Aquino receives 55 FEU Medical Alumni from Northern Illinois

President Benigno S. Aquino III on Friday welcomed the 55 heads of Far Eastern University Medical Alumni Association from Northern Illinois who made a courtesy call before embarking on their respective medical missions in the countryside.

He informed his callers that he and his siblings were all born in the FEU Hospital, which included his youngest sister, Kris in 1971. “When I was told that FEU Medical Alumni would want to visit me, I readily said why not,” the President told his visitors.

He thanked the visiting medical practitioners for the help they have extended to their countrymen through the annual medical missions, “with 40 percent of Filipinos never getting the chance to see a health professional and we are trying to rectify that.”

He said the Department of Health is adding 10,000 nurses to perform the role of midwives in various rural health units of the country which would cost around P800 million for the year “to get them better access.”

The government is targeting, at the very least, the bottom 20 percent of the population which number 4.6 to 5.3 million families to be fully enrolled in the Philhealth system so they can enjoy medical insurance, he said.

Another program by the Department of Science and Technology will propagate a very simple clay-based filtration system which has micro pores in it smaller than the sizes of viruses and bacteria to prevent these from getting into the rural potable water systems.

Electricity and gravity would be needed for this filtration system and this will cost P100 per base. Instead of the multiple filtration systems and pumping stations which cost a lot more, these simple filtration systems will gain them immediate access to potable water. The DOST will soon distribute these systems.

The President said that the P21-billion conditional cash transfer program is an investment for the future that will cover public school students. He said 14 out of every hundred students go on and finish college while 86 percent do not.

The goals of CCT are: giving stipend to families so they keep their children in school and they undergo various health checks and immunization. Sadly, “we have not been able to immunize them from five preventable diseases.”

The President said he hopes the families will be able to keep the children in school for ten years, which is the term of basic education.

With the problem in education system before such as lack of books and teachers and shortage of classrooms that led to packing four classes in one room giving children only four hours of effective learning experience “we will be changing this gradually by adopting the K+12 program or 12-year basic education, that includes preschool, the Chief Executive said.

He said all of these programs will be accelerated this year with the economy expected to grow robustly in spite of the worldwide economy “as we have been instituting reforms in the bureaucracy” and in more transparent way of doing business.

------------------------
Reference:

Press and Information Section
Email: info@philippinesusa.org
Tel. no.: 202-467-9432

Philippine Embassy News Release: Jan. 20, 2011

2011-01-20T10:24:00.001-08:00

Philippine Embassy
News Release
20 January 2011

Liberal Party leaders assure Aquino of their full support

The entire leadership and members of the Liberal Party assured President Benigno S. Aquino III of their full support for his administration’s vision, straight path governance, as well as his plans and programs to uplift the lives of the Filipino people and for the growth and progress of the country.

In a simple gathering marking the 65th anniversary of the Liberal Party at Malacanang’s Heroes Hall on Wednesday night, the party leaders unanimously agreed to support President Aquino’s plans and programs, not only for the good of the party, but for the good of the Filipino people.

In his remarks, Senator Franklin Drilon urged the officers and members of the Liberal Party to “take advantage of the situation when we have the confidence, we have the support of the senate and the entire Filipino people. This is the opportunity for our party to push our programs of government and give our people hope that we have at least the ability to dream for the better future of our country.”

“Indeed, Mr. President you have built such a goodwill that right now you have the Senate which is very supportive of your government and your programs. This does not happen very often. This is my 15th year in the Senate and I have not seen a Senate more cooperative to the administration than you receive today. And that is because they believe in your sincerity, in your leadership, and in your sincere desire to help our people,” Drilon stressed.

For his part, House Speaker Feliciano Belmonte said that majority of the lawmakers in Congress is very supportive to the President because of his strong goodwill to serve the country.

Belmonte expressed confidence that in the remaining 40 session days of Congress they should be able to pass his priority measures.

“I think we should hit the ground running. We should be able to make series of headway in terms of enacting the priority measures. Sabi nga nila, let us strike when the iron is hot and ensure that your priority measures will be passed by Congress this year or by the third quarter (of 2011),” Belmonte said.

Other allies, Senator Teofisto Guingona Jr. and Francis Pangilinan told the President that they are willing to help and support his administration.

“So kami ngayon we’re starting the year with this gathering as a show of unity, a show of forcefulness. And kami po sa Senado we are ready for anything (to help you),” both Guingona and Pangilinan said.

Meanwhile, the League of Cities of the Philippines (LCP) president and San Fernando City, Pampanga Mayor Oscar Rodriguez reiterated that the mayor’s league is committed to work closely with the Aquino administration in reducing poverty-incidence and ensure the delivery of basic social services in line with his administration’s anti-poverty reduction program under the Millennium Development Goals.

The LCP vows to enjoin cities to implement standards and reform policies and programs of the national government by strictly implementing the Anti-Red Tape Act in their areas.

“Mr. President, the League is your partner in creating a culture of good governance, of transparency and accountability,” Rodriguez said

Rodriguez noted that the Philippine cities will be the “engines of sustainable development, champions of good urban governance and catalysts for nation-building committed to the improvement of the lives of our constituents.”

Governors League of the Philippines national president and Oriental Mindoro Governor Alfonso Umali Jr. said the league has no serious problem right now because the members of the Cabinet particularly the President himself are closely assisting them to fulfill their mandate to their respective constituents.

***

Llamas appointed Adviser on Political Affairs

Malacañang confirmed on Thursday the appointment of Akbayan president Ronald Llamas as presidential adviser on political affairs.

In a press briefing at the Palace, Presidential Deputy Spokesperson Abigail Valte confirmed Llamas’s new post in the Aquino cabinet saying that President Aquino has yet to sign his appointment papers.

Valte said Llamas could fill in the need for a singular political affairs adviser to the President who could render service on a regular basis

“Akbayan is an ally of the President, having supported the Liberal Party (LP) in the 2010 elections… As you know, there is no singular political adviser and there is a need for one to advice the President and who will represent President Aquino in some matters in that specific area,” Valte said.

Akbayan is a coalition partner of the LP, and Llamas himself is a key adviser of President Aquino as well as LP president and former Senator Mar Roxas.

Meanwhile, at the celebration of Liberal Party’s 65th anniversary at the Heroes Hall of the Palace Wednesday night, Llamas said he will “seriously pursue reforms and political projects of the president in order to change the system of corruption and poverty in our country.”

Llamas was earlier appointed by the President as member of the board of directors of the Development Bank of the Philippines.

***

Aquino receives 26-men crew of Balangay boats

President Benigno S. Aquino III received this afternoon the 26 crew members of the three-boat Balangay Expedition, which was a symbolic journey to retrace and recapture the ancient pre Hispanic history as seafaring and trading royal civilized people intended to make the Filipinos proud and believe in their virtues.

The voyage revived the Philippines’ sea faring tradition that was recorded in the 16th century Chronicles of Pigafetta. Balangay is also known as the oldest pre-Hispanic watercraft.

Headed by team leader, former Transportation and Communication Undersecretary Arturo T. Valdez, a veteran mountaineer who founded the Mount Everest Expedition, the crew presented to the President two replicas and a scroll charting the route of the three boats from Butuan to the six countries in Asia.

The expedition first sailed throughout the archipelago and wherever it docked, it gave lectures in Philippine culture and history and engaged the people to go back to their bayanihan spirit.

The expedition also visited Brunei, Singapore, Cambodia, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia and the waters of Vietnam where the crew shared the message that the seas do not divide but connect and unite these countries with the Philippines.

The crew is composed of former Mt. Everest summit climbers like Valdez that included Leo Oracion (the first Filipino to reach the summit of Mt. Everest in May 2006); Erwin “Pastour” Emata (the second Filipino to reach the tip of Everest), Janet Belarmino (the youngest mother to reach the tip of Everest); Carina Dayondon (the second Filipina to reach the summit of Everest); Noelle Wenceslao (the first Filipina to reach the summit of Everest); Dr. Ted Esquerra (of the Philippine Coast Guard); Fred Jamili (Valdez’ partner for 30 years and a member of the First Philippine Mt. Everest Expedition); Voltaire Velasco (a doctor in environmental physics and the voyage’s weather analyst); Lito Esperar and Mark Lim. It also has Badjao members.

Valdez said the expedition sailed for 14 months and seven weeks or a total of 13,600 kilometers. The Balangay boats and their crew will leave for Mindanao Thursday night and rejoin their families.

The Balanghai or Balangay boats discovered in 1976 in Butuan City, Agusan del Norte, are said to be dating back to 1250 A.D.

***

Ochoa: President Aquino tackles crime situation with DILG, PNP

Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. said on Thursday that President Benigno Aquino III had met with Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo and ranking police officials in the wake of the gruesome murders of two car dealers.

Ochoa told government radio station DzRB that the President had summoned him, Robredo, Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Raul Bacalzo and National Capital Region Police Director Nicanor Bartolome to the Palace the other day to address the twin killings and ensure the safety of the public.

At the meeting, Ochoa proposed to the PNP to step up visibility as a way of deterring criminal activities and allay fears of the public stemming from the murders of car dealers Emerson Lozano and Venson Evangelista.

According to the Executive Secretary, he has assured the police force that he would push for additional funding to boost the logistical support for peace and order and address criminality in the country.

“Our police, of course, have certain concerns that they want addressed immediately,” Ochoa said. “We will certainly help them but I ask them to make it more concrete, to propose it to me and I’ll do something about it.”

Ochoa added that improving the law enforcement system, including heightened police visibility, was better than reviving the death penalty to fight crimes.

“There are many schools of thought but the important question on this issue is if it (death penalty) does deter crime. I’m not sure if we simply say there is death penalty right now, it will deter crime right away. That is the point that we should look into carefully,” Ochoa said.

“My opinion does not really matter but what is important is what is really right for us, for our country,” Ochoa said.

The Executive Secretary said there were enough existing laws to deal with various incidents of crime in the country and re-imposing death penalty would not guarantee immediate solution to criminality.

Ochoa, however, said he understood the sentiments of the people seeking to revive the death penalty law because of their frustration with the country’s criminal justice system.

“The solution to this is not just immediate. The solution we see is for us to improve our law enforcement system and genuinely and truthfully train our police and our people on how to address criminality in the country,” he noted.

------------------------
Reference:

Press and Information Section
Email: info@philippinesusa.org
Tel. no.: 202-467-9432

Philippine Embassy on Consular Services at Tampa, FL in April 2011

2011-01-15T12:29:00.000-08:00

Philippine Embassy
Press Release
14 January 2011

Philippine Embassy in Washington DC to conduct Consular Services at Tampa, Florida in April 2011

The Philippine Embassy in Washington D.C. will conduct a consular outreach service in Tampa, Florida on 08-10 April 2010, Friday to Sunday from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon and 1:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

The Embassy’s consular team will accept and process applications for electronic passport (ePassport), notarization of documents, and registration of births and marriages.

Passport applicants are no longer required to bring photographs since they will have their pictures taken using ePassport data capturing machines at the outreach site. However, they still need to bring other necessary requirements, such as their current passport, the passport application form which may be downloaded from www.philippineembassy-usa.org, an application fee of $60.00 and a self-addressed stamped envelope (preferably Express Mail with tracking number) with their application.

The outreach program will also include an oath-taking ceremony for individuals who will reacquire their Filipino citizenship under the Dual Citizenship Law. Applicants for reacquisition of Filipino citizenship are requested to submit the required documents to the Embassy by mail not later than Friday, 11 March 2011.

The consular services with be held at the Bayanihan Arts and Events Center, 14301 Nine Eagles Drive, Tampa, Florida 33626.

For details and appointment for ePassport application, please contact 1-813-925-1232.

------------------------
Reference:

Press and Information Section
Email: info@philippinesusa.org
Tel. no.: 202-467-9432

Philippine Embassy News: Jan. 14, 2010

2011-01-15T12:21:00.000-08:00

Philippine Embassy
News Release
14 January 2011

Government resumes talks with MILF on Feb. 9

The government peace panel will resume peace negotiations with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front on Feb. 9 following the completion of initial discussions in Malaysia. The government panel just planed in Friday from Malaysia for the initial discussions there.

Chief government negotiator, lawyer Marvic Leonen said Friday that he would brief his principals first on what was agreed upon in the meeting he just came from.

He said the discussion in Malaysia Thursday is that both parties are ready and eager to resume the talks.

The International Monitoring Team (IMT) tour of duty ends on Feb 28 but both camps have agreed that the IMT will stay. “We will talk about the formalities of extending the IMT’s mandate during the talks,” Leonen said.

He said the IMT is very important because it keeps the conflict in Mindanao to the barest minimum, which this year reached only 10 recorded conflicts between the MILF and the military.

Another reason for extending the term of IMT is the security guarantees for the MILF leaders, as agreed upon in 2001, which is to augment the security guarantee both camps will be issued identification cards.

He said any discussions on the agenda must have to be done solely on the negotiating table and that the talks in Malaysia did not exclusively tackle the Memorandum of Agreement on Ancestral Domain (MOA-AD). The MOA-AD was earlier struck down by the Supreme Court.

Leonen said both parties are calling the negotiations in February as the 20th exploratory meeting.

The MILF, he said, gave the government the list of 25 detainees they refer to as “political detainees” and we have committed to review their cases but it does not preclude that “we will be releasing them as of now.”

He said the Philippine government is committed to give justice to the victims and their survivors of past atrocities committed by these detainees.

He said the peace talks with MILF is very broad and “we are putting on the table the items that should be in the agenda. He said a concrete agenda was crafted in Malaysia but he would not give details neither would he confirm if the issue on the MOA-AD will be in the agenda.

Leonen said both parties agree that terrorism, including kidnap for ransom, is not part of the accepted activities.

He said that as chair of the negotiating panel and for the talks to proceed smoothly he is committed to good faith and that means that items to be discussed in the negotiations must only be disclosed to both panels first before going to the public.

***

Aquino wants further study on proposals and plans for infrastructure repair and rehab

ORMOC CITY: President Benigno S. Aquino III ordered the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to collate all proposals and plans for the rehabilitation of infrastructures damaged by calamities.

In a press conference Friday afternoon at the Ormoc City Airport here, the President said he wanted to make sure that all infrastructures subject for repair and rehabilitation will not be hit again by landslide and floods in the near future.

Public Works Secretary Rogelio Singson, according to him has been tasked to consolidate and validate all proposals and plans conducted by the Mines and Geosciences Bureau and experts from local government units before repairing damaged infrastructures.

He noted that in Eastern Visayas, Southern Leyte and Samar were identified as low risk but still hit by the landslide and floods during the weeklong torrential rains.

***

Aquino offers releif goods to Butuan calamity victims

BUTUAN CITY, Agusan del Norte: President Benigno S. Aquino III turned over relief goods consisting of farm inputs, medical supplies and food packs to victims of floods and landslides, here at the last stop of his visit to regions ravaged by the continuous rains brought by the tail end of the cold front the past weeks.

The President handed certificates of turn over to respective local officials of Butuan City and the provinces of Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Norte and Surigao del Sur that were inundated by floods and affected by landslides.

Apart from the assistance in kind, the Chief Executive also awarded a check worth P437,400 for the DOLE emergency employment program of Butuan City.

For Agusan del Sur, four checks worth P656,100 were given by the President for the municipalities of Prosperidad, Veruela, Sta. Josefa and Loreto.

Two checks worth of P437,400 for the islands of Siargao and Dinagat in Surigao del Norte and three checks totaling to P510,300 for the dole emergency employment program of the municipalities of Barobo and Tandag in Surigao del Sur were also distributed.

The financial assistance was intended to address the short term requirement in social services through job restoration of head and able members of the affected families in rural works program.

Caraga Region was seriously damaged by the flooding which took 23 lives and affected 100,453 families. Three hundred fifty houses were totally damaged while at least 165 million pesos worth of agriculture and 457 million worth of infrastructure were destroyed.

The local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), national government agencies and private sector provided immediate response through pre-emptive evacuation, Search and Rescue (SAR), relief and medical assistance to flood stricken areas.

Removal and cleaning of debris as well as immediate repair of impassable road sections were also done.

President Aquino has directed the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to assess the repair and rehabilitation of infrastructures in the area.

The President congratulated the local officials, the private sector and national government agencies for the concerted efforts in mitigating the effects of the disaster in the region.

Earlier, the Chief Executive also visited Legazpi in Albay and Southern Leyte, which were also stricken by floods. He also distributed assistance to the victims in the area.

------------------------
Reference:

Press and Information Section
Email: info@philippinesusa.org
Tel. no.: 202-467-9432

Philippine Embassy News: Aquino urges youth to study sciences & robotics

2011-01-13T09:58:00.001-08:00

Philippine Embassy
News Release
13 January 2011

Aquino urges youth to study sciences & robotics

President Benigno S. Aquino III urged the country’s youth to take up sciences and technology, including robotics courses which will be the wave of the future.

Looking pleased and proud on the fete of 19 Filipino teams which competed in the 2010 World Robot Olympiad last November the President said the Filipino youth’s awareness and exposure to science and technological advancements “have gone a long way” from his time “of floppy disc and black and white television.”

The President cited statistics showing the low inclination of the youth to science courses saying that of the 100 students going to college only two take up science courses.

Cabinet members in attendance were Science and Technology Secretary Mario Montejo and Education Secretary Armin Luistro along with Deputy Director Dr. Leticia Catris of the Science Education Institute of the DOST.

He noted that the sciences will be useful to the country’s progress and development with possible applications in security of the railway systems, solutions to flooding and landslides (through the sensors of the robots), and retrieval operations for victims of natural disasters, “or where it is very risky for humans” to venture in.

The President said he is proud that today’s youths are very competitive in robotics beating even countries known for their adherence to science like Russia, Japan and China in the last World Robotics Olympiad at the SM Mall of Asia.

The robotics champions were brought to Malacanang on Thursday by Mylene Abiva of Felta Multi Media Inc., founder of the Philippine Robotics Olympiad in 2001 who also lobbied for the inclusion of robotics in the physics subjects in private and public high schools and in general sciences for elementary levels.

The Philippine team has been joining the World Robotics Olympiad for the past 10 years. It has won in six straight years an accumulative total of two gold, one silver and one bronze medals.

“But in 2010, our 19 teams won the same number of medals in only one participation,” said Abiva.

Abiva explained that the World Robotics Olympiad was participated in by 1,012 students from 22 countries with the Philippines joining in two categories: the regular techie playing field and the open or creative field (where the Philippines got both gold medals).
.
The President advised the youth not to “rest on your laurels and to keep working for excellence for the benefit of future generations.”

In 2011, the World Robotics Olympiad will be held in Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates.

***

Palace expects better economic freedom index for 2012

Malacanang expects a better economic freedom rating next year following a slide in the Philippines’ 2011 index from 109th to 115th last year.
.
In a press briefing Thursday, Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said the survey was done during the second half of 2009 to the first half of 2010 indicating it applies to the past administration.

“That is our challenge and we hope to see an improvement in the economic freedom index in 2012,” Lacierda said.

The economic freedom index is being undertaken yearly by Washington-based think tank, Heritage Foundation Inc. using 10 components namely: business freedom, trade freedom, fiscal freedom, government spending, monetary freedom, investment freedom, financial freedom, property rights, freedom from corruption and labor freedom. It rates each country in every component on a scale of 0 to 100 points.

The freedom from corruption component came from data of the Transparency International, and based on the previous administration’s performance. Lacierda noted that the Aquino administration’s thrusts are eradicating graft and corruption and reducing poverty in the country.

The first component is business freedom. “Here we have already undertaken reforms such as reducing the time for processing registration of businesses and cutting red tape.”

He said the reforms needed to improve the business, maintain consistent policies and investment environment and level the playing field for business are being put in place as the government pushes the public private partnership (PPP) program.

“We have been doing these things and we do not need to amend the Constitution to improve the business freedom index,” Lacierda told reporters.

For the Philippines, its lower index score was 24 points for freedom from corruption and its highest index was 91 for government spending, reflecting a decision to front load a huge part of the budget for the first half of 2010 and plan for public private partnerships focused on infrastructure.

The country’s scores are: 43.4 points for business freedom; 77.8 points for fiscal freedom; 76.3 points for monetary freedom; 40 points for investment freedom; 50 points for financial freedom; 30 points property rights and 50.7 points for labor freedom.

***

Aquino to distribute relief goods to Agusan flood victims

BUTUAN CITY, Agusan del Norte: President Benigno S. Aquino III will lead the distribution of relief goods here Friday and assess what else can be done to assist the victims of floods and landslides.

The President is expected to arrive at the Butuan City Airport by noon to personally turnover government assistance to the people displaced by the mass flooding and landslides spawned by the tailend of the cold front (TECF) in the region the past weeks.

Expected to welcome the President are local officials including Governor Eripe John Amante, Agusan del Norte; Mayor Ferdinand Amante Jr., Butuan City; Representative Jose Aquino II, District ! Agusan del Norte; Maj. Gen. Victor Felix, Commander of the 4th Infantry Division and Police Chief Superintendent Reynaldo Rafal, Regional Director of Provincial Regional Office 13.

The Chief Executive will be briefed on the effects of the TECF in CARAGA by Regional Director Blanche Gonbenciong of the Office of the Civil Defense 13 and Chair of the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council 13.

The President will then turn over the goods, from agencies including the Department of Agriculture, Department of Health and the Department of Social Welfare and Development, to respective recipients at the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines office.

The provinces of Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur and the city of Butuan will receive three shallow tube wells, two boxes of assorted vegetable seeds and 50 bags of palay seeds each from the Department of Agriculture.

Apart from these, one box of assorted medicines and supplies worth P26,691 will also be given to each recipient from the Department of Health (DOH) as well as some 1,200 family food packs containing rice, canned goods and noodles from the DSWD.

The President will also extend assistance to victims in the provinces of Albay and Southern Leyte.

As of Thursday, seven people were added to the growing list of fatalities in the widespread flooding and landslides in Mindanao, Eastern Visayas and Southern Tagalog due to prevailing severe weather conditions in the regions.

Based on the latest data gathered by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, 40 people have died either due to drowning or were buried alive by landslides.

------------------------
Reference:

Press and Information Section
Email: info@philippinesusa.org
Tel. no.: 202-467-9432

"I Got Music Talent, and It Shows", a night for aspiring singers, songwriters & performers

2011-01-12T08:47:00.000-08:00

Galing Foundation Inc. in cooperation with TAKI Japanese Steak House
invites You to
"I Got Music Talent, and It Shows"
A Night for aspiring Singers, Songwriters and Performers
on
Saturday, February 5th
7:00 pm to 9:00 pm
Lead by: Circle of Fifths

This is a family friendly night with great entertainment in a casual,
friendly, and supportive atmosphere. Bring your cd track, guitar or keyboard...plug in and play.

Dine in and Taki will donate 10% of your total bill less tax to
Galing Foundation Inc. Simply fill out your name, date, and e-mail
address, on the back of the coupon, and present it to your server. These coupons will be available at the door or at Mabuhay Store (404) 361-9313.

Taki Japanese Steakhouse, Dunwoody's newest and most fashionable Japanese Restaurant. The Asian fusion atmosphere and decor is perfect for couples on a romantic date night or a family looking for a special dining experience in the most beautiful environment in the area. Whether you prefer the Hibachi rooms, 30 foot sushi bar or a table in the Dining Room - customer service is Taki’s first concern. Reservation is required for Hibachi dining.

TAKI Japanese Steak House
http://www.takijapaneseatl.com/
4711 Ashford Dunwoody Road
Dunwoody, GA 30338
(770)-522-8888

Galing Foundation, Inc. is a 501 (c) 3 non profit public charitable foundation *
EIN No. 20-5508331
Ana Blackburn: 404 925-2639
galingfoundation@yahoo.com
http://galingfoundation.blogspot.com/

Philippine Embassy News Release 10 January 2011

2011-01-10T10:39:00.000-08:00

Philippine Embassy
News Release
10 January 2011

Malacañang allays fears of 'open skies' policy

Malacañang allayed fears that its “open skies” policy would be detrimental to the local airline industry saying the contents of the Executive Order was studied carefully to “put forward our reform agenda.”

In a press briefing in Malacañang on Monday, Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said the soon-to-be-released EO would protect local carriers once enforced.

“What we’d like to assure everybody is that the contents of the EO on the government’s open skies policy were studied carefully and it is not a product of something that happened on a whim or caprice. So, we believe that this will put forward our reform agenda,” Valte said.

“(And) knowing the officials who were behind the drafting of that EO, they would make sure that the local carriers would be protected,” she added.

Under the EO, foreign carriers will be allowed to service domestic routes and fly into such airports as those found in the provinces of Cebu, Davao, Zamboanga and Laoag.

According to President Benigno S. Aquino III, once implemented, the policy is expected to further boost the country’s tourism industry and the economy.

The President on Thursday led the awarding ceremonies for Cebu Pacific’s 50 millionth passenger at the departure lounge of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 in Pasay City.

During the event, he assured players of the local carriers that opening the country’s sky to international aviation industry will definitely provide opportunities for them that will redound to further boost the country’s tourism industry and the economy.

“I am aware of the concerns of our local carriers and I can assure you that as we liberalize aviation, it will be undertaken in a way that will open up opportunities for competitive and world class domestic carriers like the Cebu Pacific,” the President said.

He added that once the open sky policy is implemented, local carriers would benefit from it because more visitors from the neighboring countries will be coming in.

“Once implemented, we expect more international airlines to enter the market. Aside from opening our doors to more visitors that will strengthen our tourism, this will also allow us to enjoy a free market for products to further boost our economy. This, of course, will redound to thousands of additional jobs, which in turn will provide decent living to many Filipino families,” he said.

***

Preparations set for rainy season - Palace

In anticipation of the rainy season, Malacañang assured the public that necessary preparations are already in place to avert any damage typhoons may cause the Philippine soil.

In a press briefing at Malacanang on Monday, Presidential Deputy Spokesperson Abigail Valte said that concerned agencies such as the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (NDRRMC) and the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical Astronomical Services Administration- (PAGASA) under the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), among others, are in constant coordination to ensure that preparations are in place for the coming rainy season.

“Just like the flooding in the CARAGA region, the agencies concerned were on hand to coordinate, that will remain the same… we will continue to implement pre-positioning and the constant updates from Pagasa-DOST just to make sure that we are where we are supposed to be”, Valte said.

Valte also said Pagasa, the government’s lead weather forecasting agency, has been issuing a seven-day weather forecast posted in their official website (www.pagasa.dost.gov.ph).

“Pagasa has a seven-day forecasting system that is already in place and an hourly forecast should it be needed, all those concerned have to do is go to the Pagasa website to check it,” Valte said.

At least 10 tropical storms hit the country last year, the strongest was super typhoon “Juan” (international name “Megi”), which ravaged the northern provinces of Isabela, Cagayan, Tuguegarao and neighboring provinces.

***

Cabinet identifies 25 priority legislative measures

The Aquino Cabinet on Monday identified 25 priority legislative measures that will have to meet Presidential approval before submission to Congress during the Legislative Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC) scheduled this month.

In a press briefing, Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office Secretary Ramon Carandang said the proposed priority bills were clustered into five groups of general relevance, ranging from economic, social services, good governance security and rule of law, among others.

“These are all tentative… we may have more or less.” Carandang said following the workshop of cabinet members presided by Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa and attended by Vice-President Jejomar Binay and other cabinet secretaries.

The criteria for the selection of these legislative measures, according to him were based on their relevance to the President’s 16-point agenda.
Carandang said the measures were chosen based on their “doability and how easy these will get passed.”

There are also proposals he said to amend the Local Government Code specifically on economic provisions but stressed that there was no talk on charter change during the meeting.

Carandang added that there were no new tax measures proposed as the President had earlier said that new taxes are not among his priorities but rather on enhancement of existing measures to improve tax collection.

“We are trying to rationalize them (proposed measures) before we present them to the President, “ he said.

The President earlier said he hoped to convene the LEDAC before the end of the month, noting that Cabinet officials had asked for an extension to next week to submit the priority bills to be proposed by their respective departments.

Ochoa on Friday said the Presidential Legislative Liaison Office has received a list of 147 proposed laws from various departments and 41 from the Joint Foreign Chambers of Commerce of the Philippines.

The cabinet meeting/workshop today trimmed down the list to 25.

------------------------
Reference:

Press and Information Section
Email: info@philippinesusa.org
Tel. no.: 202-467-9432

Philippine Embassy in Washington DC to conduct Consular Services in Montgomery, Alabama

2011-01-10T10:35:00.001-08:00

Philippine Embassy
Press Release
10 January 2011

Philippine Embassy in Washington DC to conduct Consular Services in Montgomery, Alabama

The Philippine Embassy in Washington D.C. will conduct a consular outreach service in Montgomery, Alabama on 26 March 2011, Saturday, from 9:00 am to 12:00 noon and 1:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

The Embassy’s consular team will accept and process applications for electronic passport (ePassport), notarization of documents, and registration of births and marriages.

Passport applicants are no longer required to bring photographs since they will have their pictures taken using ePassport data capturing machines at the outreach site. However, they still need to bring other necessary requirements, such as their current passport, the passport application form which may be downloaded from www.philippineembassy-usa.org, an application fee of $60.00 and a self-addressed stamped envelope (preferably Express Mail with tracking number), with their application.

The outreach program will also include an oath-taking ceremony for individuals who will reacquire their Filipino citizenship under the Dual Citizenship Law.

The consular services with be held at the 316 St. Lukes Drive, Montgomery, Alabama 36117.

For details and appointment for ePassport application, please contact Ms. Sherry Guarin at
(334) 272-3580.

------------------------
Reference:

Press and Information Section
Email: info@philippinesusa.org
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Miss Georgia Christina McCauley joins Miss America Pageant

2011-01-04T04:57:00.000-08:00

Christina McCauley, a 22 year old with a golden voice, has just begun her journey as the newly crowned Miss Georgia. The Miss Southern Heartland contestant wowed the judges with her rendition of “And This Is My Beloved” from the musical “Kismet”, winning her a preliminary talent award. This is a very exciting time in Christina’s life as she is given numerous opportunities to speak about her personal platform and promote the Children’s Miracle Network as she travels, and makes appearances throughout Georgia.

Her platform of “Scoliosis Awareness” is very personal to her, since she was diagnosed with scoliosis at age 10. She endured wearing a back brace for four years at up to 23 hours a day. She credits early detection and compliance as the key to her recovery. Her platform "Scoliosis Awareness," centers on the importance of early detection which interfaces directly with the new Miss America national platform, the Children’s Miracle Network. Christina was treated at Scottish Rite Hospital in Atlanta, one of the 7 children’s hospitals in Georgia that is funded through CMN. Christina has also visited and volunteered at CMN hospitals, such as the Birmingham Children's Hospital in Alabama.

Her energetic cheering section includes her parents, Jack McCauley, a USAF veteran from Wheeling, WV; and Rebecca Torrecampo McCauley, a USAF Reserve veteran who hails from Cavite, Philippines. Her parents met while stationed at Travis AFB, California. Her sisters, Meghan, 19 is a freshman at Kennesaw State University, and Katherine, a senior at Pebblebrook High School. Christina has had the opportunity to perform in various venues including the Cobb Energy Center.

Also a winner in the classroom, Christina is a graduate of the Dale Carnegie Institute and a recent Magna Cum Laude graduate at Birmingham-Southern College, where she was selected for membership in Phi Eta Sigma, national scholastic honorary society. She was selected for the sensational Hilltop Singers, who perform across the country. A class Salutatorian with a 4.2 GPA, Christina was named STAR Student (highest SAT/GPA combination) at Pebblebrook High School, Cobb County Center for Excellence in the Performing Arts, where she graduated in 2006. She performed for two years with ComPAny, the prestigious performing arts group at Pebblebrook. Christina is a member of BSC's Omicron Lambda Alumbi Chapter of the Chi Omega Fraternity.

To date, Christina has won approximately $50,000 in cash scholarships under the Miss America Organization and America's Junior Miss Programs.

From Christina...

For the last four years, I have competed in the Miss America Scholarship Program as a way to fund my first college degree. The opportunities and experiences I have reaped from this program however far exceed the monetary benefits. One of the most rewarding of which is the opportunity I have had to promote my personal platform on the local and now state level. This platform for me has been near to my heart since I was diagnosed with scoliosis at ten years old. Having dealt with the shock of this discovery and the subsequent pain and struggle of diligent brace wearing; it wasn't always clear to me how fortunate I really was to have discovered my scoliosis as early as I did. Thanks to early detection, I was able to treat my scoliosis successfully and non-surgically. This is why I have dedicated much of my high school and college years to promoting the importance of early detection of this disease. Never could I have imagined how instrumental a crown on my head would prove to be in this endeavor.

I will never forget the morning I visited my orthopedic doctors for the first time. I was ten years old, and all I really understood about the visit was that my persistent mother felt she knew something was wrong with me —something my pediatrician had told her was no big deal. For years prior to that day, I remember my parents massaging my back to feel that one side was more tense than the other. They would say to each other that it seemed like one of my shoulders was higher than the other. In a swimsuit, they'd say the same about my hips. However all of this was made out to be paranoid parenting at my annual visit to the pediatrician. Not this particular morning. Mom had decided to follow her gut and take me to see a specialist. I was asked to remove my regular clothing and don the first of many blue paper robes. I remember feeling cold, confused, and uncomfortable when the nurse asked me to stand up against the cold metal plate; and my “paranoid” mother made sure she taped a radiation guard over my ovaries and breasts--”Please protect my future grandbabies!” she said to the nurse.

About half an hour later, Dr. Schmidt and Dr. Mortensen (Dr. Larry as I grew to know him) came into my room with a large manila folder. Their demeanor was more professional and cold than I was accustomed to, so I knew right away they weren't the bearers of good news. At ten years old, a child who has always been otherwise healthy and active doesn't fully understand terminology and doctor lingo; but the gravity of my situation came in loud and clear as they explained my x-rays to my mother. I may not have understood what “scoliosis” meant or what “treatment” would mean for me, but I sat in amazement at the sight of my S-shaped spine on the brightly lit screen before us. “That's my spine?” I wondered. “Am I deformed? Am I going to die?” These were the panicked thoughts that invaded my mind while my expressionless face tried to conceal them. The look on my mom's face was conflicted-- both edified and worried. At any rate, I was ready to leave that place, enjoy a Mickey D's Happy Meal, and hope that my mom would forget that day ever happened.

She didn't. I caught her looking at S-shaped spine images whenever she was online, and she spent more and more of her time on the computer. I know now she was researching — trying to learn everything she could about my spinal deformity and hoping to find a cure. She learned of treatment options less conventional than the ones she discussed with my doctors — everything from hanging vertically from a pull-up bar contraption and letting gravity do the work, to regular chiropractic care. Ultimately my parents decided to go with the Boston back brace, a method of treatment which I proceeded to undergo for 23 hours/day for the next four years.

I went back to see Dr. Larry for our first bracing appointment. This time, I had to lie down on a bed of three metal bars so that Dr. Larry could mold my brace to my body. I wore only a thin body-sized sock. He then took warm, wet paper maché like cloths and pressed them firmly against my sock-covered torso. I held onto two ropes on either side of me to balance on the metal bars while he wrapped my entire torso in this wet material; but just minutes later it was dry, hard, and in the form of my first plastic back brace.

Days later, I returned to receive my finished Boston back brace. Dr. Larry opened it up, and I squeezed inside. There were adjustable buckles on the back which he tightened until I could hardly breathe. When I thought I was going to suffocate and bust out of the hard plastic monster, he made a mark on the buckle so that whoever buckled me would know to pull it that tightly. There was no escape.

The moment my father and I stepped out of Dr. Larry's office, I whimpered and cried to him that I couldn't breathe. I thought I would surely suffocate and die if he didn't loosen the straps right away. Despite all the begging and pleading, he would not loosen them. When we approached the car, I encountered my next obstacle: sitting. The brace extended all the way down past my hips; and even though I was not overweight, it pained me terribly to bend at the waist and feel the plastic pinching my fat. I knew this was the beginning of something terrible-- something from which even Daddy wouldn't save me.

Upon our arrival back home, I felt the urge to use the restroom. This was my first “A ha!” moment. Surely, they would let me take off the brace so that I could use the restroom. And sure enough, they did. My mom could see the tears welling up in my eyes when she unbuckled the straps for me. I took my first deep gasp for air, and breathing deeply had never felt so good. My dad must have told my mom that I would cry to stay out of it, however; because when I returned, she tightened the straps back to Dr. Larry's cruel mark. Again, I felt like I was suffocating. It hurt to stand, to sit, even to lie on the soft couch. I discovered the most comfortable place for me to lie was on the hardwood floor. There on the living room floor, I fell asleep in a puddle of tears. Momma lay right beside me.

It took me only a couple weeks to adjust to wearing the brace all day, every day. After I had lost a few pounds, it no longer hurt to buckle the brace to Dr. Larry's mark. In fact, every time I went back to visit him, he moved the mark even further inward so that the brace could push against my curves even more effectively. I became skinnier and skinnier; and as I grew taller, I went through four different back braces. At school, rumors spread that I had an eating disorder. Teenage girls can be vicious to one another, and I had to learn new ways to dress flatteringly. I became self-conscious as preteens do, but I felt the extra burden of a hard plastic brace with bulges and buckles that I needed to conceal. I learned to wear denim when possible and loose fitting shirts and jackets or blazers to cover the buckles in the back. I also grew to despise wearing dresses, because they seemed to accentuate every bump and buckle. I believe this to be the reason for my new found love for this staple in my “Miss Georgia” wardrobe.

If someone had told my ten-year-old worried and confused self that it would turn out like this, I never would have believed him. It is amazing to me how 23 hours of discomfort each day taught me to be patient and to keep my eye on an unforeseen prize. Four years of overcoming self-consciousness forced me to find my inner strength and develop confidence in my talents and my mind. Four progressively bigger back braces and four progressively better x-rays taught me to believe in perseverance and in slow, steady results. I know that everything happens to us for a reason and that all obstacles provide us with an opportunity to learn and to grow. My experience with scoliosis was a positive and life-changing one, not only because I was able to treat it successfully and non-surgically, but because it shaped me into the resilient woman I am today. I hope that through my role as Miss Georgia 2010, I will be able to reach out to children and families affected by scoliosis throughout this state. I want to deliver a message of hope and serve as living proof that perseverance and a positive outlook can overcome any obstacle. Most importantly, I want to spread the message that early detection of scoliosis is of utmost importance. When parents and healthcare providers are aware of the early signs of this disease, more children will be fortunate as I was to be treated non-surgically.

Click on link to learn more about voting for Christina McCauley into the top 15 finalist at Miss America Pageant. Voting closes Jan. 13 11:59 pm PST or Jan 14 2:59 am EST
http://www.christinamccauley.com/HOME.html

Philippine Embassy News

2010-12-25T06:53:00.000-08:00

Aquino to sign 2011 budget on Dec. 27

President Benigno S. Aquino III is signing on Monday, Dec. 27, the P1.64 trillion budget for 2011 in Malacanang. The President will deliver a statement after the signing in the presence of congressmen and senators.

This was announced by Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda in a media briefing in Malacanang on Wednesday.

The Senate and House of Representatives approved the budget on Dec. 13 and 14, respectively.

The early approval of the budget will enable the government to embark on its infrastructure and social projects as early as the first quarter of 2011.

The budget includes an additional allocation of P300 to P400 million to the Senate and another P50 million to the House, restoring their respective budgets in the 2010 General Appropriations Act (GAA). These were earlier slashed by the President as part of belt tightening measures.

It also includes P200 million additional funds for the Office of Vice President Jejomar Binay, which was earlier cut from P195 to P177 million.

The amount for maintenance and other operating expenditure of the state colleges and universities (SUCs) were restored to their 2010 levels—between P110 and P140 million. However the approved budget does not have allocation for capital outlay.
Called the Reform Budget, the 2011 GAA is said to mirror the President’s commitment to lift the nation from poverty through honest and effective governance, according to Budget Secretary Florencio “Butch” Abad earlier.

The education sector had the biggest increase of P750 million to enable it to hire 5,000 new teachers. The P83 million appropriation for the Truth Commission, which was declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court, was retained pending the appeal of the executive branch.

The allocation for the Department of Health’s program to purchase contraceptives was slashed from P932 million to less than half of its original amount. The budget for the health secretary was reduced by P200 million along with the budget of the Philippine National Police, which was slashed by P60 million.

The conditional cash transfer program under the Department of Social Welfare and Development amounting to P21.9 billion passed through the bicameral committee without cuts.

The President earlier said that the spending plan was crafted after a thorough review of the government’s programs and projects, and after he and the Cabinet have arrived at priorities to address critical gaps in social services for the poorest of the poor.

“The 2011 National Budget focuses on funds where they are most needed and where these will yield the most benefits. We have redesigned the budget to ensure that every centavo will be put to good use,” he said, noting that the budgetary increase from 2010 is only 6.8 percent.

The President earlier stressed that the 2011 budget is anchored on these basic governance principles: transparency and accountability to make government productive; bias in allocating resources for the poor and the vulnerable; fiscal responsibility to reduce debt; public-private partnerships to spur growth despite lack of funds; and zero-based budgeting to prioritize activities with impact.

***

Cabinet men submit reports to PMS

In keeping with tradition, members of the Cabinet of President Benigno S. Aquino III were required to submit their respective “accomplishment reports” for the year 2010 by the Presidential Management Staff.

In a briefing on Thursday at Malacanang, Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said many members of the Cabinet have complied with the requirement of PMS.

Lacierda told reporters that the Presidential Communications Group will come out with a yearend report and the President’s message for the New Year.

The President met with his communications group on Friday to discuss the various reports to be presented to the people, the New Year’s message and some sort of Ulat sa Bayan in January. The Ulat will detail what the Aquino administration will do for the entire 2011, Lacierda stressed.

He said there is no planned Cabinet meeting before the end of 2010 “because we already met during the Christmas party.”

The President prefers to divide the Cabinet into clusters instead of as an entire body “so as not to waste the time of other Cabinet members who are not involved in a particular cluster.”

The accomplishment report that Cabinet members are submitting to the PMS “will be a benchmark for what we did from the past six months.”

“It’s important for us to know where we came from, what we are doing now and what we are doing in the future because we need to also mesh the 16-point social contract of the President during the campaign with the medium-term priority development plan. That’s what we are working on,” Lacierda said.

Foremost among the rewarding experiences of the administration is the ability to help people directly which emphasizes on the eradication of graft and corruption and poverty alleviation. “We have an example in the person of the President, who really epitomizes honesty and integrity and that’s why we are inspired to serve in government.”

Lacierda also noted that the high rating of the President is due to the impact of his poverty alleviation projects such as the conditional cash transfer (CCT) program.

“Our campaign platform of eradication of graft and corruption and poverty reduction have gained the respect of the public for the Aquino administration,” Lacierda said.

He added that the Department of Social Welfare and Development has identified the poorest of the poor where the CCT will be pushed. “In some areas, we are already delivering the CCT and it’s working. That could account for the rise also of the confidence of the D and E sectors to the administration,” Lacierda said.

***

Palace asks Supreme Court to reconsider decision on Truth Commission

Malacañang on Thursday asked the Supreme Court to reconsider its December 7 decision declaring the Truth Commission unconstitutional, arguing that its creation does not violate the equal protection clause.

In the motion for reconsideration (MR) filed by Solicitor General Jose Anselmo Cadiz, he said Executive Order No. 1 is not in violation of the equal protection clause because (1) the language of executive order shows that there is no intent to unfairly discriminate against the previous administration, (2) the Truth Commission does not single out specific individuals but refers to questionable transactions in the administration of former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, and (3) there is no invidious classification of the transactions during the previous administration since this is based on substantial distinctions that make for real differences.

The MR likewise argues that since the Supreme Court has already ruled that the President has the power to investigate to ensure that laws are faithfully executed, the high tribunal cannot prescribe the subject, purpose, and manner of such investigation.

Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. said Malacañang filed the MR because it wants to exhaust all legal remedies available before considering the other options raised by members of the Palace legal team.

“We will attempt to make our case before the High Court before we look at other options with regard to investigating the alleged acts of corruption mentioned in the said E.O.,” Ochoa said.

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Press and Information Section
Email: info@philippinesusa.org
Tel. no.: 202-467-9432

Ambassador Gaa Meets with Filipino Community Leaders on SAVE Act

2010-12-22T16:26:00.001-08:00

Ambassador Gaa Meets with Filipino Community Leaders on SAVE Act

20 December 2010, Washington D.C. – Philippine Ambassador to the United States Willy C. Gaa met with Mrs. Loida Nicolas-Lewis, chair emeritus of the National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA), and several Filipino community leaders last December 17 to pursue discussions regarding the drive in support of the Save Our Industries Act (SAVE Act). It is hoped that Filipino-American voters will closely engage and energize legislators to succeed in the campaign.

Message of Philippine Ambassador to the United States Willy C. Gaa

2010-12-20T06:23:00.000-08:00

Message of Philippine Ambassador to the United States Willy C. Gaa

M E S S A G E

The yuletide season presents us all with the distinct opportunity to offer thanksgiving for milestones that marked our year and to spread cheer to others.

At Christmas time, we gain a profound appreciation of the gifts that make our lives meaningful. We gather our family, remember our friends and share our blessings to the community.

In the Philippines, Christmas is truly the most joyous occasion. We are grateful for blessings we have received as well as for the challenges that make us stronger in faith.

In landmark events in our people’s history this year, unity and a true sense of nation defined Filipinos in the Philippines and here in the United States. The world witnessed a vibrant democracy in the Philippines. We enjoy a consistently growing economy that is able to provide for those who are in need.

In all these, the Filipino-American community remains a steadfast partner of the Philippine government as we forge our path to genuine peace and inclusive progress. In abundance and more so in need, the spirit of bayanihan sprang Filipinos and Filipino-Americans to action.

Now more than ever, we are being called to strengthen the bonds that join all Filipinos and build on the gains we have achieved. Let us work together to translate the goodwill that emanates from the Philippine government’s agenda of good governance to committed action that will help the Philippines advance its goals and interests.

As you, my kababayan, usher in a new year, I hope that you will take even more pride in your Filipino heritage and be further emboldened to reach-out and work with the larger Filipino-American community.

Maligayang Pasko at Masaganang Bagong Taon!

WILLY C. GAA
Ambassador

25 December 2010, Washington, DC

Philippine Embassy News: More good news for Aquino: BSP to remit savings to treasury

2010-12-20T06:01:00.000-08:00

Philippine Embassy
News Release
17 December 2010

More good news for Aquino: BSP to remit savings to treasury

Another set of good news fell on President Benigno S. Aquino III’s lap on Thursday when Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Amado Tetangco announced that BSP will remit starting January next year around P14.2 billion in dividends and taxes.

Tetangco made the announcement during the launch of the New Generation Banknotes at the Rizal Ceremonial Hall of Malacanang. The new banknotes will begin circulating this month.

Of the P14.2 billion, BSP is ready to remit P9.312 billion by January representing additional dividends for 2003-2006, following a meeting initiated by Senator Franklin Drilon with Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima, Budget Secretary Florencio Abad, Commission on Audit Chairman Reynaldo Villar and Tetangco.

The BSP will remit at least P4 billion more in dividends and additional taxes to the National Government subject to the completion of COA’s audit of BSP’s 2009 operations, representing the remaining 50 percent of its estimated 2009 income.

Tetangco also gave a general report on the economy for the second half of this year.

“Beyond the new designs of our banknotes, there is also good reason to celebrate the sound macroeconomic fundamentals that underpin the real value of the Philippine peso,” Tetangco said. “Inflation is at low single digit levels that are well within our target; the benchmark interest rates set by the Bangko Sentral are at record low levels; we have a sizable balance of payments surplus; our Gross International Reserves are at an all-time high; remittances from our modern day heroes are bound to set a new record this year; our banking system is sound and stable; and our surveys indicate strong confidence in the future by the business sector and Filipino consumers.”

The launching of the New Generation Banknotes, according to Tetangco comes at an auspicious time as 2011 marks the 150th year of National Hero Dr. Jose Rizal and the 25th anniversary of the People Power Revolution.

The new banknotes, he said, took three years to complete from conceptualization to actual printing.

For this New Generation Philippine Banknotes Project, the Bangko Sentral received the support of many who shared the vision of change for the currency. The result is a unified design sensibility arising from a collaboration by Filipino designers Design System and Studio 5 Designs.

The initial batch produced resulted from the collaboration between the De la Rue-Fil Anglo partnership with Oberthur Technologies-Sinophil.

Also for the first time, the seal of the Republic of the Philippines is now part of the banknotes, reinforcing the image of the peso as national symbols. The new logo of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas also makes its first appearance on the banknotes.

Another new feature of the New Generation series is the word “Pilipino” rendered in the ancient baybayin alphabet that doubles as a security feature. Since one-half of the word is printed on the front side and the other half on the reverse side, the word Pilipino in baybayin can be seen only when the banknote is held against the light.

***

Ochoa orders reinvestigation of Vizconde case

Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa Jr. on Friday paved the way for the reopening of the investigation of the Vizconde massacre, as he instructed the heads of four key government agencies to tap all resources available at their disposal to bring the perpetrators behind bars.

The memorandum, addressed to Justice Secretary Leila De Lima, Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo, Philippines National Police Chief Raul Bacalzo and National Bureau of Investigation Director Magtanggol Gatdula was issued Dec. 16, two days after the Supreme Court acquitted Hubert Webb and six others of the gruesome 1991 killings.

“In view thereof, you are hereby directed to conduct a thorough reinvestigation of the case, utilizing all available resources at your disposal to finally solve the same with the end-in-view of apprehending and prosecuting the authors of the crime,” Ochoa said.

“You are likewise reminded of the applicable prescriptive period within which to file the case considering that the crime was committed in 1991,” the Executive Secretary added.

Article 90 of the Revised Penal Code states that crimes punishable with life imprisonment should be prescribed within 20 years from the time the crime was committed.

The Vizconde massacre took place on June 30, 1991.

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Reference:

Press and Information Section
Email: info@philippinesusa.org
Tel. no.: 202-467-9432

American Theater Magazine's Senior Editor Randy Gener Receives Pamana Ng Pilipino Presidential Award

2010-12-16T05:16:00.000-08:00

American Theatre Magazine’s Senior Editor Randy Gener Receives

Pamana Ng Pilipino Presidential Award

New York, NY – Theatre Communications Group is proud to announce that Randy Gener, senior editor of American Theatre magazine, will receive the 2010 Pamana Ng Pilipino (Legacy of the Filipino Nation) Presidential Award today from President Benigno S. Aquino III at the Malacañang Palace. The 2010 Presidential Awards for Filipino Individuals and Organizations Overseas recognize the achievements and significant contributions of Filipino individuals and organizations in the U.S. and abroad.

According to the Commission of Filipinos Overseas, the Pamana Ng Pilipino Presidential Award is given to “Filipinos, who, in exemplifying the talent and industry of the Filipino, have brought the country honor and recognition through excellence, dedication and distinction in the pursuit of their work and the advancement of their profession. They have displayed social consciousness in terms of manifesting strong community spirit, or leading and actively participating in projects and activities for the common good.”

The Presidential Award is a testament to the critical essays and articles Gener has written for American Theatre magazine, representing Filipino American theatre, which have had both national and international impact.

“The Philippine government recognizes that strong editorial coverage of theatre can be a cultural asset, especially if it creates high-level conversations and builds global awareness of its thrilling diversity,” says Gener. “The arts have always been a portal to a large, diverse, complicated and stimulating world. I hope to be a greater success in tracing what is happening in the world of theatre— to reconsider the place of American theatre within larger cultural contexts; to call greater attention to both national and international theatrical voices and visions to regular Americans; and to integrate both approaches into a coherent critical vision that moves in both as well as many different directions at once.”

Gener joins 24 recipients of the biennial 2010 Presidential Awards for Filipino Individuals and Organizations Overseas from around the world. The recipients consist of seven Filipino organizations, one foreign group, three foreigners and 13 Filipinos. The awardees come from United States, Hong Kong, South Korea, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Australia, Germany and Canada. From 2003 to 2008, there were 314 individuals and organizations from 42 countries and territories have received the Presidential Awards.

Celebrating its 30th anniversary, the Commission on Filipinos Overseas also invited Gener to speak on the topic of "Solutions of Culture and Education: Keeping Second Generation Filipinos Overseas Rooted in Philippine Culture” at the conference entitled "Vision 2020: Responding to the Challenges of Migration and Development.” Gener was the only 2010 Presidential Awardee asked to speak and actively participate in this government-organized conference.

Information about the 2010 recipients for the 2010 Presidential Awards can be found in the commission’s website: http://www.cfo.gov.ph.

Randy Gener, is a writer, editor, critic, playwright, and visual artist based in New York City. In his capacity as the senior editor of American Theatre magazine, Gener is responsible for writing news, features and criticism, as well as preparing, editing and curating special issues on all aspects of professional U.S. amd world theatre. A Village Voice theater critic in the 1990s, he has contributed essays, articles and reviews in The New York Times, New York Magazine, The Star Ledger, Applause Magazine, Time Out New York. He is the author of scholarly essays in the encyclopedia, which include Cambridge Guide to the American Theater; the Anthologies Theater and Humanism in a World of Violence, roMANIA After 2000, and The American Theatre Reader. He has worked as an editor of the Arts-Institute/Theatre Institute of the Czech Republic’s newspaper Prague Quadrennial Today and as a freelance dramaturg for the Joseph Papp Public Theater, Roundabout Theatre Company, Pan Asian Repertory Theatre, and Denver Center Theatre Company. He has been the recipient of a 1995-96 Jerome Foundation American Theatre/Affiliated Writers Program fellowship; a 2003 New York Times critic fellowship at Eugene O’Neill Theater Center; grants from the Foundation of the American Theatre Critics Association, Ford Foundation, the Trust for Mutual Understanding; and a Filipinas Magazine 2007 Arts and Culture Prize. Gener is the 2009 recipient of the George Jean Nathan Award for Dramatic Criticism, the highest accolade for dramatic criticism in the U.S.

Theatre Communications Group (TCG), the national organization for the American theatre, exists to strengthen, nurture and promote the professional not-for-profit American theatre. Founded in 1961, TCG’s constituency has grown from a handful of groundbreaking theatres to nearly 700 member theatres and affiliate organizations and more than 12,000 individuals nationwide. TCG offers its members networking and knowledge-building opportunities through conferences, events, research and communications; grants approximately $2 million per year to theatre companies and individual artists; advocates on the federal level and serves as the US Center of the International Theatre Institute, connecting its constituents to the global theatre community. TCG is the nation’s largest independent publisher of dramatic literature, with 11 Pulitzer Prizes for Best Play on the TCG booklist. It also publishes the award-winning AMERICAN THEATRE magazine and ARTSEARCH®, the essential source for a career in the arts. In all of its endeavors, TCG seeks to increase the organizational efficiency of its member theatres, cultivate and celebrate the artistic talent and achievements of the field and promote a larger public understanding of, and appreciation for, the theatre.

Philippine Embassy News Aquino exhorts OFWs to instill bayanihan spirit and help victims of calamities

2010-12-15T07:55:00.000-08:00

Philippine Embassy
News Release
15 December 2010

Aquino exhorts OFWs to continue to instill bayanihan spirit and help victims of calamities

President Benigno S. Aquino III has urged all Filipino individuals and organizations abroad to continue to instill their “bayanihan” spirit by donating to the Lingkod sa Kapwa Pilipino Program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), a program that provides assistance to the victims of natural calamities.

Speaking before the awardees of the 2010 Presidential Awards for Filipino Individuals and Organizations Overseas (PAFIOO) at Malacanang’s Rizal Hall on Tuesday night, the Chief Executive said the donations of overseas Filipino workers is needed to help rehabilitate and build a better future for the families and communities affected by the calamities.

The President recalled that in 2009, the DSWD received a total of $91,000 of cash donations from various overseas Filipino communities and organizations, while this year (2010), it raised $23,000.

“I want to encourage (all of you) more of these donations,” he said even as he assured them that under his stewardship all donations and assistance that the government would receive will surely go directly at the doorsteps of the intended beneficiaries.

He also told them that the Presidential Management Staff (PMS) is authorized to issue clearances, under Memorandum Order No. 36, to the Bureau of Customs that will grant duty and tax-free privileges to donations and importations intended for calamity victims.

“In short, a procedure to exempt taxes on overseas donations exists. We have the capacity to get these donations through the administrative maze, and to the right people – the victims of calamities,” the President said.

“I know how hard you, and others like you, work to build a better future for your families and communities. And I know I’ve just asked you to do even more. But I want to assure you that your government is also doing everything it can to bring about a Philippines that is more fair, more just, and more prosperous,” he stressed.

As part of the state obligation, the President noted, the national government has strengthened the country’s basic educational system and improved health services intended to help the marginalized sector.

He said that the budget for education in 2011 increased by 16 percent or P271.67 billion while for rural health facilities and for immunization for indigent families were also increased to P7.14 billion from P2.46 billion, respectively.

According to the President, the Conditional Cash Transfer program was also increased in the 2011 budget to P21 billion in order to provide the impetus needed in the reform agenda which is designed to significantly improve the lives of the poorest of the poor.

“If we all do our part, I have no doubt that together we can leave a legacy for our country that we can all be proud of. When I leave office in less than six years, we will be able to say that we left the Philippines in a much better state than we found it,” the President said.

***

Aquino cites deserving achievers among overseas Filipino this year

President Benigno S. Aquino III conferred the Presidential Awards to 13 overseas Filipino individuals, seven organizations, three foreigners and one foreign group for their continued compassion, diligence and hard work, and efforts to help promote and uplift the image of the Philippines here and abroad.

The Chief Executive urged the recipients of 2010 Presidential Awards for Filipino Individuals and Organizations Overseas (PAFIOO) to “remain united and keep the light of our country’s resurgence burning brightly, enough for the entire world to witness.”

“I congratulate [tonight's awardees], not just for your awards, but also for your spirit of bayanihan. May you continue to wield the flaming torches of excellence, dedication and nationalism,” the President said after the awarding rites of Lingkod sa Kapwa Pilipino, Kaanib ng Bayan, Banaag and Pamana ng Pilipino awards to this year’s recipient of PAFIOO.

This year’s awardees came from the United States, Hong Kong, South Korea, Israel, Jordan, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Australia, Germany and Canada

The President said that this year’s recipients of PAFIOO are testaments to the enduring spirit of Bayanihan because of their compassion, diligence and hard work to promote Filipinos, here and abroad.

“As we celebrate the Month of Overseas Filipinos and the International Migrants’ Day, it is my fervent hope that you continue your dedicated service and efforts toward the advancement and improvement of the lives of Filipinos,” he noted.

Speaking on behalf of the awardees, world-renowned fashion designer Ramon Felix “Rafe” Totengco said that it is essential for all Filipinos working and currently living abroad to maintain and expand “our excellent educational and vocational systems because we are preparing the future citizens of the world.”

“Live and let live is our motto. I trust that your Excellency President Benigno S. Aquino III will do everything in his power to advance the excellence the Philippines has exported to the world,” Totengco said.

Aside from Totengco, the recipients of Pamana ng Pilipino Awards are Lilac L. Caña (Canada), Angelito David, Fred De Asis, Bernard Randy Gener, and Lilibeth Navarro (all based in the United States)

Among the Banaag awardees are the Computer Society of Filipinos International (COMSOFIL) based in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; Congress of Visayan Organizations (COVO) in USA; Federation of Filipino Communities in Israel; Dr. Emely Abagat based in South Korea; George Gange and Sindaw Kinding both based now in USA; Marilyn Kasimieh of the United Arab Emirates; Sister Lucia Olalia in South Korea and Evangeline Ybo in Jordan.

The Lingkod sa Kapwa Pilipino (LINKAPIL) awardees are Teresita Alarcon (USA), Ruth Martinez (Australia), North Central Virginia Association of Philippine Physicians (USA), Philippine-American Association of Connecticut (USA), and Philippine-German Community Oberberge e.V.

The Kaanib ng Bayan awardees are Caritas Lebanon Migrants Center (Lebanon), Phoebe Lam Bik Che and Sunny Lam Kai Chor (both from Hongkong), and Simha Salpeter (Israel).

The PAFIOO is a biennial awards system institutionalized through Executive Order No. 498 which was signed by the late former President Corazon C. Aquino, in recognition to the outstanding achievements and significant contributions of Filipino individuals and organizations that advances the cause of Filipino communities overseas.

The Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO), being the Awards Secretariat, has received 110 nominations from 23 countries. The nominees underwent screening of three different committees with representatives from government agencies, media, academe, religious and business sectors.

***

Aquino cites indomitable and unrelenting spirit of Mangyans

MAGSAYSAY, Occidental Mindoro: President Benigno S. Aquino III cited the Mangyan’s indomitable and unrelenting spirit in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds to achieve their life-long dream to finally call the land they till and live their very own.

In his speech keynoting the awarding of 18,616 hectares of provincial land to some 824 family members of the Hanunuo, Gubatnon and Ratagnon (HAGURA) tribes at the municipal gymnasium here Wednesday, the Chief Executive lauded the Mangyans’ perseverance saying, “kayo ang nagsisilbing haligi sa pagpapanatili ng ating kulturang Pilipino (you serve as the foundation of our Filipino culture).”

“Your unrelenting struggle despite the numerous obstacles represents the basic trait of Filipinos which is why the Mangyans have earned my utmost respect,” the President said.

The President likened the Mangyans struggle to own their land to the country’s quest to unchain itself from the shackles of corruption.

He noted that with the help of government reforms and ordinary citizens, the fight against corruption remains on course.

“In giving back to you the right to your ancestral domain, we hope you will continue to strengthen the rich cultural heritage of your forefathers,” said the President.

“For as long as you follow the right path, we shall make sure that your land is ably protected, as well as your indigenous culture,” the President said.

***

Palace bares more appointments

Malacañang on Wednesday announced the appointment of newspaper columnist Jarius Bondoc as member of Philippine Commission on Good Government (PCGG) along with Roberto M. Lara, Andres Bautista, Richard Roger Amurao and Gerard Mosquera, all members of Independent Realty Corporation (IRC), a sequestered company.

Their appointments signed last Dec. 2, was announced by Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte.

Also appointed were Ranulfo Ocampo (representing private distribution utilities), Rosario Ventura (representing renewable energy developers), Jaime Pe Benito Jr.(representing electric cooperatives), Francisco del Rosario Jr. (representing government financial institutions) and Mark Q. Dia (representing non government organizations) and Ernesto Pantangco (representing electricity suppliers), as members of the National Renewable Energy Board of the Department of Energy. All their appointments are on a co-terminus basis.

Engr. Ramon Allado was named chairman of the Philippine Contractors Accreditation Board for a term of three years along with Engr. Victorino Lahoz and Farouk Maracambon Sr., both members of PCAB for terms of one and two years, respectively.

Norberto Nazareno was named chairman of the Board of Directors for six years of the Philippine National Railway while Dante Sollano Delima, was appointed Director III (vice Clarito M. Barron) of the Bureau of Plant Industry under the Department of Agriculture.

------------------------
Reference:

Press and Information Section
Email: info@philippinesusa.org
Tel. no.:

Philippine Embassy News Release

2010-12-14T09:51:00.000-08:00

The Filipino child can dream again - Aquino

President Benigno S. Aquino III on Monday said it is time for the Filipino child to dream again as he vowed to work hard in giving them a bright future.

In his extemporaneous speech at the 20th anniversary of the ratification of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, the President said the children today are luckier compared to the children during the Martial Law years when he was barely 12 years old and aware that there was no promising future for them.

Speaking in the verncular to some 500 children who attended the event at the Malacanang’s Heroes Hall, the President vowed that his administration will work hard to give the youth of today better lives.

“It is our obligation to give you a bright future,” he stressed as he asked the youth to be government’s partner in realizing a progressive Philippines.

He said it is important that the youth guide their guardians to take the righteous path to progress.

“Let us all work together for change,” he said.

The President said it is his government’s priority to give the youth quality healthcare, education and shelter.

Se said he will make sure that the 40 percent of Filipinos who can’t afford to see a health professional will be able to access quality healthcare through the use of modern technology such as the internet.

Moreover, he stressed that education is the key to a better life thus the increase in the 2011 budget of the Department of Education.

“Education gives you the opportunity to improve your lives. The government is giving you the opportunity so I hope you use this opportunity wisely,” he said.

The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child is a human rights treaty setting out the civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights of children.

The UN General Assembly adopted the Convention and opened it for signature on Nov. 20, 1989 and came into force on Sept. 1990, after it was ratified by the required number of nations. As of Nov. 2009, 194 countries have ratified it, including every member of the United Nations except Somalia and the United States of America.

The Philippines ratified the Convention in Sept. 1990.

Philippine Embassy News Release

2010-12-14T09:50:00.000-08:00

Aquino upbeat on success of reform efforts

President Benigno S. Aquino III expressed optimism on Monday that his administration will be able to attain its goal of progress and development for the country at the end of his term.

In his message at the awarding ceremonies for The Outstanding Young Men (TOYM) in Malacañang Monday morning, President Aquino expressed confidence of achieving reforms at a faster pace as he enjoined the awardees to continue sharing their strengths and expertise in nation building.

“We would like to be able, at the end of our term… when we step down, to hold our heads up high and say when we look back that definitely we left something a lot better than what we found”, the President said.

“With all of your help and guidance…with your continued aspirations and strength that you share with us, undoubtedly we will reach it and hopefully at a faster clip than what we have managed to do these past six months”, he added.

The Chief Executive noted the awardees’ exemplary deeds which made a difference in uplifting other people’s lives.

This year’s TOYM Awards was anchored on the theme “Heroes Create Heroes”, inspired by the noble deeds of the late former Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr., father of President Aquino, who himself was conferred the TOYM Award for Public Service 50 years ago.

Ninoy’s heroism and love for country has inspired countless Filipinos to be heroes as well. This highlights the importance of role models, heroes in serving as inspiration for the younger generation to emulate.

The TOYM Awards recognizes outstanding individuals who, not only excel in their profession, but also in making a difference in the lives of the people in their community or to the country, as a whole.

The awards also aim to inspire many more young people, between the ages of 18 to 40, to become heroes for the Filipino youth.

This year’s TOYM Awardees are: Juan Edgardo “Sonny” M. Angara for Government Service (Legislative); Paolo Benigno “Bam” A. Aquino IV for Social Enterprise and Community Development, Therese “Gang” Badoy, Alternative Education and Youth Leadership; Alan Peter S. Cayetano, Government and Public Service (Public Accountability and Transparency), Maria Rochelle R. Gerodias for Arts and Music (Classical); Harvey S. Keh, Public Education and Good Governance; Efren G. Peñaflorida, Jr., Grassroots Education and Community Service; Edsel Maurice T. Salvana, Medicine and Social Activism; Beatrice “Bea” P. Valdes for Fashion Design and Entrepreneurship, and Jun S. Yupitin, Entrepreneurship in Pioneer Industries.

For more than half a century, the TOYM has become an institution, having honored countless young leaders who have accomplished considerable, tangible results in the pursuit of excellence. The award per se has become a veritable representation of what is best in man, celebrated through his indomitable spirit of service to others.

***

------------------------
Reference:

Press and Information Section
Email: info@philippinesusa.org
Tel. no.: 202-467-9432

Employment Opportunity: GSU IPH Research Staff Member

2010-12-09T10:57:00.000-08:00

Georgia State University, Institute of Public Health, Community Research Center is looking to hire one new Research Staff Member between now and January. Candidates should have some experience in (preferrably) social/psychological work or social sciences, interviewing skills (as in conducting research interviews), and/or familiarity with HIV/STDs in a work environment. My boss would prefer interviewing people we refer to her first. If you know of anyone in the church or elsewhere that you think may fit this job description please let me know asap. I am not sure of the exact date, but the job announcement is to be set up between now and the end of this month and will only be posted for about 4 or 5 days. Thanks and have a wonderful day!

Chenoa N. Murray, BS

Georgia State University
Institute of Public Health
Community Research Center
Research Assistant
Work: 404-413-1147
Cell: 678-372-3431
Email:Chenoa.murray@gmail.com

Contributed by: Jane Rolen

Events for the Whole Family this Christmas Time

2010-12-09T10:44:00.000-08:00

FRIDAY: DECEMBER 10, 2010

To All Kababayan:

PAWAG is having a Family Christmas Celebration on Friday, December 10, and we would like to invite everyone to come and join us.

6:30pm-11:30pm
Ben Robertson Community Center
2753 Watts Drive
Kennesaw, GA 30144

Sanlahi Band

$15 adults, $5 12 yrs. old and below

Thank you and looking forward to see you all.

Lanie Evans
founder/president-pawag
"dedicated to improving women's lives"
www.pawag-outreach.org
404-663-8764

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2010

THE FILIPINO-AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF GREATER ATLANTA
Family Christmas Party

Roswell Adult Recreation Center
830 Grimes Bridge Rd.
Roswell, Georgia 30075
Saturday, December 11, 2010
2-6pm

POT LUCK
Please bring your favorite dish to share.

For more information please contact:
Mayette Bayani - 404-316-9238
Liza Bozarth -678 294 3452
Doddy Ward - 404 932 4090Please bring your favorite dish

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2010

Come and see "Simbang Gabi", the Philippine Christmas Tree sponsored by the Philippine Honorary Consulate General and Galing Foundation, Inc., decorated by artist Tony Alberto as part of the Winter Wonderland: Celebrations & Traditions Around the World Exhibition at Fernbank Museum of Natural History. (767 Clifton Road, N.E. Atlanta, GA 30307 Information: 404.929.6300 Tickets: 404.929.6400)

On Sunday, December 12 at 2:30pm, join the Mabuhay Atlanta Dance Group as they demonstrate "Tinikling", the Philippine national dance. Children and adults will have an opportunity to meet the dancers and experience this fun and interactive dance.

This educational event is for the whole family.

Winter Wonderland: Celebrations & Traditions Around the World exhibition runs until January 5, 2011.

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2010

NW Phil-Am Assn of Georgia

Date: December 17, 2010 (Friday)
Time: 6:30pm to 11:00pm
Where: Northeast Cobb Community Center
3100 Jaycee Drive, Marietta GA. 30066
Tel: 770-509-2737

This is a Potluck Event, Please bring your dish to share!
Entrance fee per person: $5.00
Children under 12 years old FREE!

Please call our following officers
by December 12, 2010 for your attendance. Thank you!
Maraming Salamat Po!

May Kinnunen @ 678-431-9336
Lucy Andrade @ 770-875-8191
Hermie Ragan @ 678-267-4773
Fely McMichen @ 404-434-0492

Facebook: NorthWest Phil-Am Association of GA, Atlanta
Email: nwphilamofga@yahoo.com

Sunday, Dec. 12: Philippine Day at Fernbank Museum

2010-12-08T09:12:00.001-08:00

Photo: Joy Alberto-King, Alan Alberto, Jem Alberto, Gina Le, Aaron Alberto & Angelo Alberto

click here for link

Come and see "Simbang Gabi", the Philippine Christmas Tree sponsored by the Philippine Honorary Consulate General and Galing Foundation, Inc., decorated by artist Tony Alberto as part of the Winter Wonderland: Celebrations & Traditions Around the World Exhibition at Fernbank Museum of Natural History. (767 Clifton Road, N.E. Atlanta, GA 30307 Information: 404.929.6300 Tickets: 404.929.6400)

On Sunday, December 12 at 2:30pm, join the Mabuhay Atlanta Dance Group as they demonstrate "Tinikling", the Philippine national dance. Children and adults will have an opportunity to meet the dancers and experience this fun and interactive dance.

This educational event is for the whole family.

Winter Wonderland: Celebrations & Traditions Around the World exhibition runs until January 5, 2011.

Dec. 17: Metropolitan Ballet Theater presents "The Nutcracker"

2010-12-02T08:50:00.000-08:00

Metropolitan Ballet Theatre presents its annual production of The Nutcracker, December 17th through the 19th, 2010, at the Blessed Trinity Catholic High School. Tickets are now on sale online! Prices range from $15.00 to $30.00.

Dates and Prices:
■Friday, December 17th, 2010 at 7:30pm – $25.00 (Opening Night and Reception included)
■Saturday, December 18th, 2010 at 2:00pm and 7:00pm – $15.00 and $20.00
(Land of Sweets Tea and Performance with 12:30 Tea and a 2:00 Performance – $25.00)
■Sunday, December 19th, 2010 at 2:00pm and 6:00pm – $15.00 and $20.00
Opening night reception for all during intermission as well as after the performance. All patrons, volunteers and performers invited.

Click here for more information & to purchase tickets:

Philippine Embassy News: Dec. 1, 2010

2010-12-01T16:27:00.001-08:00

Philippine Embassy
News Release
01 December 2010

Aquino urges youth to be active agents of change

President Benigno S. Aquino III on Tuesday exhorted the youth to become active participants in effecting positive change as exemplified by the country’s heroes like Andres Bonifacio.

Speaking at the launch of the Kabayanihan Foundation and distribution of pamphlets detailing “12 Little Things our Youth Can Do to Help Our Country” on the 147th birth anniversary of Andres Bonifacio, the President said the country is now under bright sunlight, away from the dark shadows it used to be in, so that we can see more where we are going and how to get where we want.”

“If we do what is right now, the youth will benefit from it,” the President said at the La Consolacion College in Mendiola, Manila.

It was the second time for the President to speak in this school, the first was during a town hall meeting that marked his first hundred days.

The President told the students present that he was at first hesitant to attend the UN General Assembly in New York but was prevailed upon by his economic team who adviced him that a lot of American businessmen wanted to meet him to discuss their possible investment prospects in the country.

“I had 12 meetings where I got commitments of $2.4 billion for 43,000 jobs and we are expecting more to come. In Japan, when I attended the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation, there were three heads of companies that met with me with investments of $2.8 billion of which another $2.6 billion will be coming in,” he said.

“Then the global head of Procter & Gamble told me during its 75th anniversary that it would be expanding its Cabuyao plant for P2.5 billion. Then Nestle Philippines also said it would expand its Laguna plant by P4.5 billion plus it would source 25 percent of its coffee requirements from Filipino farmers. Immediately Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala met with the Kalinga coffee farmers to break the good news and asked them to improve their production,” the President said.

He pointed out that under his administration change has happened even in the “most corrupt” agency like the Department of Public Works and Highways which stopped the anomalous diversions of the P600 million remaining Calamity Fund for storms Ondoy and Pepeng. He added that DPWH stopped disbursing it and as a result the country saved P300 to P400 million.

The President also spoke of a semiconductor company called Japan Does Corp., which count 70 Filipino engineers, among its most competent people with headquarters in Japan. It also has 800 Filipino engineers based here. The company prefers to hire Filipino engineers because they are among the most ingenious and talented.

Another source of “strength” for the President is his friend, long settled and very successful in Singapore, who “just packed up and returned to the Philippines. When he was asked why he made such a move, my friend said I see a lot of change in my country and I want to be part of that change.”

“Your obligation is to study well so you will do what’s right for your generation,” the President said of his mother, the late President Cory Aquino telling him during the Martial Law years when he wanted to do something more than just study. This, he said, is also his message to the youth of today.

“A lot more positive changes have been happening. Let us be part in bringing about such change,” the President stressed.

***

Aquino urges youth to follow ‘12 Little Things’ to help the country”

After joining the mass recitation of the long “Panata” or the youth’s commitment to effect change and be part of the solution, President Benigno S. Aquino III on Tuesday read his interpretation of the pamphlet on “12 Little Things Our Youth Can Do To Help Our Country.”

The Chief Executive was the speaker at the launch of the Kabayanihan Foundation and the release of the pamphlet marking the 147th birth anniversary of Katipunan founder, Andres Bonifacio at the La Consolacion College in Mendiola Tuesday night.

First of the 12 little things is “Be On Time, Honor Your Commitments” where the Foundation commits to make the notorious “Filipino Time” as “on time, all the time.”

The President read through the second and third, “Fall in Line, Respect Others” and “Sing our national anthem with pride” speeding through the fourth, “Study well. Give your best in everything you do.”

Here, he recalled his mother, the late President Cory Aquino, always telling him that “your obligation is to study well so you will do what’s right in your generation,” an advice, he said, that would be apt for today’s youth.

On the fifth, “Do not cheat or steal. Report any crime or illegal act,” the President recalled that just Monday night four hijackers who accosted a loaded truck were arrested by the police in less than 24 hours. “You can do much in reporting crimes,” he said.

Then he again read through the sixth item, “Conserve water, plant a tree and dispose your garbage properly.

On the seventh, “do not smoke, avoid drugs and stay away from vices,” the President candidly said, “this is hard for me. But for those who have not yet started smoking, do not even start.” And this one brought loud laughter in the jampacked auditorium.

The eighth was “Buy Pinoy. Do not buy fake or smuggled goods,” to which the President said “let us help create more jobs here by buying our own so our countrymen do not need to go abroad for work.”

The ninth is “Save, invest and learn business early,” an option that he encouraged the youth to take.

The 10th, “During elections, vote for and support the best candidate.” Here the President recalled that in the May 2010 elections he easily garnered 59 percent of the vote, and the rest shared by his rivals. Of his votes, many came from the youth. He said his debt of gratitude is to his countrymen.

The 11th was “respect our elders, practice mano, po,” to which the President joked, you can make “mano” to Alex Lacson, one of the founders of Kabayanihan Foundation. “To me, just shake my hands,” a joke that meant he did not want to be treated like an elderly. Still, he said, “it is very important to keep this truly Filipino tradition going.”

On the 12th, “Pray for our country and our people,” the President enjoined the youth “not just to pray hard for the country and its people but also to do your share in nation building and in being part of the positive change.”

He also urged the youth to be active participants in discourses about helping the country move forward and project the positive.

***

Aquino bares P62-million public-private partnership

President Benigno S. Aquino III announced Wednesday the allocation of P62-million to a public-private partnership to further promote the Information and Communications-Business Process Outsourcing (IT-BPO) industry in recognition of its significant contribution to the national economy.

In a speech at the inauguration of three new facilities of IBM Philippines at the UP-Ayala Technohub along Commonwealth Avenue in Quezon City Wednesday, the President said the IT-BPO sector from a virtual non-entity in 2001 has earned the sunshine industry status by generating over $9 billion in revenues, aside from employing close to 550,000 full-time individuals in 2009 alone.

The President said the back-office sector has also already hired 86,000 individuals, while 35,000 were employed in IT outsourcing this year.

“You have contributed 10.2 percent of the growth of the Services sector, which comprises about 49.5 percent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). In the second quarter of 2010, you have already contributed 3.2 percent to the GDP growth, he said.

The President said the sector is expected to gain some $12-13 billion in revenues by next year, and even rise to as much as $100 billion by 2020 or about 20 percent of the market share in the global industry.

With jobs generation among his priorities, the President said government will further develop the industry through a public-private partnership between the Commission on Information and Communications Technology (CICT) and the Business Processing Association of the Philippines (BPAP) which will allow IT-BPO firms to recruit faster by equipping Filipino jobseekers with the appropriate skills.

“We have already allocated a 62-million-peso fund to the Business Processing Association of the Philippines through the Commission on Information and Communications Technology. They have agreed to work together to implement activities promoting the IT-BPO industry,” the President said.

Under this partnership, the President said some of the programs include the BPAP Talent Caravans; the Pilot Run for National Competency Assessment Test for Entry-Level BPO Talent; Expanded Learning on IT Services or ELITES Teacher Training; and the Capacity Building for the Health Information Management Outsourcing Industry.

The President said the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) is also working with the private sector to further enhance English proficiency and technical capabilities of the Filipino labor force to successfully qualify them for employment.

Further studies, such as the Service Science Management and Engineering according to him will help ensure that a trained workforce will always be ready for employment in the BPO and the emerging Knowledge Process Outsourcing industry.

“We are confident that these projects will solidify the growth and competitiveness of your sector and will achieve goals of creating more jobs and investments in the country,” he explained.

The President pointed out that public servants must be quick, efficient, and visible in establishing a business environment that allows businesses to thrive and provide citizens with opportunities to showcase their abilities and live comfortable lives.

“For this reason, the Cabinet has pledged to work together to help sectors such as the BPO. We are in a period of daylight now. We have dropped the divisive practices that have characterized the past years and we are eager to serve our bosses—the Filipino people. Our Cabinet is one that works, and we work for your benefit,” he said.

As the second largest global delivery location in the world, the President thanked IBM Philippines for locating here in 1937 and recognizing the Filipino workforce in providing world-class service to its clients and customers around the globe.

The President said the Philippines is now gearing toward the full promotion of public-private partnerships to spur economic growth.

------------------------
Reference:

Press and Information Section
Email: info@philippinesusa.org
Tel: 202-467-9432

Philippine Embassy News: Nov.30, 2010

2010-12-01T16:25:00.001-08:00

Philippine Embassy
News Release
30 November 2010

Dengue cases declining, says DOH

Government efforts to combat dengue appears to be bearing fruit as shown by the steady decline in the number of new cases according to Health Secretary Enrique Ona.

Ona said in a briefer submitted to President Benigno S. Aquino III that there are now only around 4,000 new cases weekly compared to 7,000 to 8,000 cases last August and September.

Ona cited as a big lift its continuous advocacy campaign, the 4S—Search and destroy, Self-protective clothing, Seek early consultation, Say no to indiscriminate fogging, and D.E.N.G.U.E. strategy (Daily monitoring of patient’s status; Encourage ORESOL for hydration; Note warning signs for hemorrhagic fever; Give paracetamol Not aspirin for fever; Use mosquito net; Early consult is advised).

Strengthened coordination among government agencies, he said, also contributed to the decline in the number of dengue cases.

The efforts of the Department of Interior and Local Government and the local government units to mobilize communities to institute vector control strategies such as dengue clean-up drives, search and destroy activities is also paying off, he added.

The Department of Education’s continuous advocacy and clean ups in public schools and the Department of Science and Technology’s research on prevention and treatment of the disease prevalent in tropical countries also contributed to the prevention of the disease, Ona said.

The DOH said it continues to monitor cases and to cluster new cases to contain possible new outbreaks as well as verify accuracy of diagnosis.

***

Aquino elated over latest SWS survey

President Benigno S. Aquino III is happy over the highest ever net approval rating he received from the latest Social Weather Stations survey among Philippine presidents since 1989.

“Nakakagalak,” the President replied when asked during a press conference this afternoon about the latest SWS survey published in Business World Tuesday.

The survey indicated that 73 percent of Filipinos gave a thumbs up for the Aquino administration's performance and only 9 percent against for a net satisfaction rating of +64.

The "very good" net satisfaction rating beat the previous record of +36 notched in November 1998 by then President Joseph Estrada.

He said the new survey reflected the continued optimism of the people on the capability of his administration to change their lives for the better.

He said the high satisfaction rating he got will be translated into the the continuation of the conditional cash transfer program, the administration’s peace and order campaign and eagerness to pursue the peace negotiations with the Moro and communist rebels.

“It really shows the confidence of the people in our administration, our openness, our transparency that we will continue to establish a daylight of transparency and accountability on all fronts. Despite bigger opposition from those who want to revert to the old ways of deceit and dishonesty for personal gains,” the President said. “We have shown our nature.”

He assured that his administration will keep his promise of transparency and to translate into reality his campaign slogan of “kung walang corrupt, walang mahirap.”

Of the total of 1,200 adults who participated in the nationwide study conducted Sept. 24-27, the survey noted that the new satisfaction ratings received by Aquino reversed a run of negative net scores of the Palace since Dec. 2007.

It said satisfaction with the national administration improved in all areas and classes, from -57 to +68 in Metro Manila, -45 to +66 in the rest of Luzon, -44 to +61 in Mindanao and -39 to +60 in Visayas. The scores were +66 from -47 among the class D or masa, +65 from -47 in class ABC and +57 from -41 in class E.

***

Aquino wants Mindanao to become Land of fulfilled promises

President Benigno Simeon Aquino III on Tuesday assured the people of Mindanao of his support by pushing measures that will make the southern island a “Land of fulfilled promises”.

The President issued the assurance at the presentation of “Mindanao 2020,” a peace and development framework plan expected to be fulfilled in 20 years, 2011 to 2030.

“I am here to serve you, not boss you around. Mindanaoans are also my boss just as every citizen in every part of the archipelago,” Aquino said.

Two key advocacy groups from Mindanao, the Mindanao Lawmakers Association (MLA) and the Confederation of Provincial Governors, City Mayors and Municipal Mayors League Presidents (CONFED-Mindanao), through a joint resolution, presented the program to President Aquino today in Malacañang.

The program envisions the people of Mindanao from all cultural and socio-economic backgrounds to attain a sustainably uplifted quality of life through collective achievement of a peaceful, developed and integrated Mindanao.

Witnessing the program presentation were various Mindanao stakeholder groups from the business sector, local government, civil society, youth, peace and development advocates and donor agencies.

The key projects to be delivered in Mindanao are in the fields of infrastructure, agriculture, peace and security and poverty alleviation, among others.

“We will ensure that appropriate intervention is immediately targeted and sent to highly-impoverished and vulnerable areas. Mindanao will be at the core of our social development and poverty alleviation program, such as the Conditional Cash Transfer program”, the President said.

The President said that long-term programs are being set for internally displaced persons in cooperation with development partners such as the European Commission.

To capitalize the agricultural strengths of the region, the government will push for the agricultural development of Mindanao by transforming it into a modern agricultural center and the nation’s food basket.

Also part of the government’s programs is the harnessing of the halal industry, particularly in the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) area, making Mindanao the food processing hub of the country and its neighboring nations in the Asean.

Peace being the foundation of progress, the President said he will not rest unless solutions are found for the problem of armed conflict in the region.

“Our administration is facing the challenges head-on, so that we can create a unified peaceful Philippines where our citizenry can fulfill their dreams and where the nightmare of conflict is a thing of the past,” President Aquino said. “Mindanao will be the land of promises fulfilled.”

In infrastructure development, the Chief Executive said he will be directing the director-general of the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) to study the feasibility of placing a central airport to make it more economically sensible.

President Aquino called on the people of Mindanao to cooperate among themselves for the realization of the said developmental project at the soonest possible time.

“Undoubtedly there will be a lot of tensions as to where to actually site this central airport. I promise you, you cooperate with each other that will be a reality sooner rather than later,” the President said.

***

Education budget up 11.4 percent next year -- Palace

The budget for education next year including those for state universities and colleges (SUCs) increased by 11.4 percent to P271.67 billion from P240.59 billion this year.

Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said in a news briefing that under the proposed 2011 National Expenditure Program (NEP), the 2011 education budget represents 16.5 percent of the national budget, compared to the 15.6 percent of the pie this year.

“There are some who are trying to sow disinformation. With respect to our budget we have again emphasized that budget for education is our number one priority. In fact, it has the biggest budget in the 2011 NEP or the National Expenditure Program,” Lacierda said.

Last Friday, President Benigno S. Aquino III pointed out that the proposed P23.4-billion budget for SUCs for 2011 is higher than the P21 billion the previous administration proposed in 2010.

Given a limited budget for this year, Lacierda said government has focused on basic education (elementary and high school) to give more poor children opportunities to go through college education.

Lacierda said the budget for basic education increased by 18.5 percent, from P175 billion in 2010 to the proposed P207.3 billion for 2011.

Based on a World Bank study on our education system, Lacierda said that for every 100 students who graduate in high school, only 14 students proceed to finish their college education.

Aside from the World Bank study, Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Office Secretary Ricky Carandang added that the Department of Education (DepEd) and other multilateral institutions have found that the big number in drop-out rates in elementary and high school were a result of poverty and low quality primary and secondary education.

“There are parents who view their children’s time in school as time that could be spent generating income. So, some of them are sometimes forced to drop out because of poverty, so they have to help augment the income of their parents,” Carandang said.

Carandang said the quality of education in primary and secondary has deteriorated over time, where many students do not acquire the necessary skills in order to enter college and succeed in their courses.

“So that is the situation. And it is not true that there are budget cuts. In fact, tumaas po ang education budget, tumaas po ang ating budget sa State Universities and Colleges,” Lacierda said.

***

DOLE to lift deferment order for OFWs in SoKor by Dec. 7, Palace says

The Department of Labor and Employment is eyeing to lift the deferment order on the deployment of overseas Filipino workers to South Korea by Dec. 7 Malacanang said today.

In a press briefing this afternoon, Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said the lifting of the deferment order would be done after Ambassador Roy Cimatu has given his assessment on the security situation in the peninsula.

Lacierda said Labor Secretary Liza Baldoz had clarified that the national government did not issue a deployment ban for South Korea.

Instead, he said, the labor department issued only a deferment or a temporary stoppage and prevented OFWs from going to South Korea.

He said the DOLE had deferred the deployment of 55 South Korea-bound OFWs who are supposed to leave on Tuesday (Nov. 30). Lacierda said their departure has been reset to Dec. 7 depending on the security situation assessment to be submitted by Cimatu.

The deferment decision of the deployment of Filipinos to South Korea was implemented due to the tensions created following last week’s artillery exchange between North Korea and South Korea.

***

Aquino upbeat on success of peace talks

President Benigno S. Aquino III is optimistic of achieving a lasting solution to the more than four decades of insurgency in the country.

This, after the government peace panel led by Alexander Padilla and its National Democratic Front (NDF) counterpart have reportedly agree to an initial meeting on Wednesday.

In a media interview in Malacanang on Tuesday afternoon, the President said he has no specific instructions to Padilla but looks forward to the opening of formal talks with the NDF to finally put an end to the 41-year-old insurgency.

“They have my entire support behind them so I will not pressure them to coming up with something just like a good sound bite. We really want to achieve the lasting solution towards this longest running insurgency,” the President said.

About a month ago, Aquino reconstituted the government panel led by Padilla to pursue peace negotiations with the NDF and the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (CPP-NPA).

The President added that the government is keen on restarting negotiations with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) once stakeholders agree on the Philippine request for a new facilitator on the resumption of talks.

“We have brought this up to the highest levels of the Malaysian government and through various channels. So we are waiting for their response,” the President said.

------------------------
Reference:

Press and Information Section
Email: info@philippinesusa.org
Tel: 202-467-9432

Friday, Dec. 3: "An Evening of Gratitude"

2010-12-01T11:21:00.000-08:00

Presentations:

*"Leadership & Challenges Ahead of the New Generation”
by Bryan Camacho Ramos, Esq., Founder & C.E.O., The Ramos Law Firm, LLC

*"The Philippines & Consular Matters & Volunteer Appreciation” by
Philippine Honorary Consul General "Ray" Raoul Donato

Jordan Moratin as Youth Leadership Awardee 2010

* "GFI Annual Report" by Arjho C. Turner, Director for GFI Mindanao Outreach

Friday, Dec. 3: "An Evening of Gratitude"

You are invited to.....“An Evening of Gratitude”

The 6th Annual Community Year End Dinner with Philippine Honorary Consul General Raoul “Ray” Donato, 4th GFI Youth Leadership Award and Volunteer Appreciation

Friday, December 3, 2010 * Canton House Restaurant
(4825 Buford Hwy. Chamblee, Georgia)

* 6p.m. Registration & Networking
* 7p.m. Program

Emcee: Ana Blackburn

GFI Youth Leadership Selection Committee Members:

Ms. Doddy Ward, Fil-Am Association of Greater Atlanta, Ms. Esther Wilson, Federation of Philippine American Organizations in GA and Ms. Didi O'Connor, Philippine American Chamber of Commerce in GA

*Entertainment *

Cost: $15 per person
For Reservations, please contact:
Ces Alberto (404) 361-9313
Ana Blackburn (404) 925-2639
email: galingfoundation@yahoo.com

Congratulations to Jordan Moratin as recipient of Youth Leadership Award on Friday, December 3

2010-11-30T11:38:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Jordan Moratin (10) for being named the recipient of the 4th Youth Leadership Award. Jordan will be honored at "An Evening of Gratitude", The 6th Annual Community Year End Dinner with Philippine Honorary Consul General Raoul “Ray” Donato, 4th GFI Youth Leadership Award and Volunteer Appreciation on Friday, December 3, 2010.

Jordan Alexander Moratin was born on April 30, 2000. He is a 5th Grade student at Grayson Elementary School. He loves to play soccer, sing and dance. His parents are Jhun and Ann Moratin.

Jordan Moratin was nominated by V.T. Charles Gilliam of Loganville, GA.

Friday, December 3: "An Evening of Gratitude"

2010-11-29T09:47:00.000-08:00

You are invited to.....“An Evening of Gratitude”

The 6th Annual Community Year End Dinner with Philippine Honorary Consul General Raoul “Ray” Donato, 4th GFI Youth Leadership Award and Volunteer Appreciation

Friday, December 3, 2010 * Canton House Restaurant
(4825 Buford Hwy. Chamblee, Georgia)

* 6p.m. Registration & Networking
* 7p.m. Program

Presentations

*"Leadership & Challenges Ahead of the New Generation”
by Bryan Camacho Ramos, Esq., Founder & C.E.O., The Ramos Law Firm, LLC

*"The Philippines & Consular Matters & Volunteer Appreciation” by
Philippine Honorary Consul General "Ray" Raoul Donato

*"Youth Leadership Award 2010 Ceremony"

* "GFI Annual Report" by Arjho C. Turner, Director for GFI Mindanao Outreach

*Entertainment *

Cost: $15 per person
For Reservations, please contact:
Ces Alberto (404) 361-9313
Ana Blackburn (404) 925-2639
email: galingfoundation@yahoo.com

For information, please visit us at http://galingfoundation.blogspot.com/

Philippine Embassy News Release * 24 November 2010

2010-11-25T15:49:00.000-08:00

Philippine Embassy
News Release
24 November 2010

Legal Affairs office assumes PAGC functions, says Ochoa

In line with the administration’s policy of stamping out corruption in the government and streamlining the bureaucracy for better efficiency, President Benigno S. Aquino III has signed Executive Order No. 13 formally transferring the functions of the Presidential Anti-Graft Commission (PAGC) to the Office of the Deputy Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs (ODESLA).

Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. said on Wednesday that the EO, which was signed Nov. 15, formally abolished the PAGC, one of 10 offices under the Office of the President (OP) which did not get any funding in the P4.075 billion budget it submitted to Congress for next year.

The other offices under OP which did not receive funding for next year because they duplicate the functions of line agencies and departments include the Mindanao Development Council, Office of the North Luzon Quadrangle Area, Office of External Affairs, Minerals Development Council, Presidential Anti-Smuggling Group, Luzon Urban Beltway Super Region, Bicol River Basin Watershed Management Project, Office of the Presidential Adviser on Global Warming and Climate Change, and the Office of the Presidential Adviser on New Government Centers.

“The PAGC is an example of the kind of redundancies we want to eliminate in government to allow us to better allocate our limited resources. It doesn’t make sense to have two or more government offices doing the same thing,” Ochoa explained. “It’s wasteful and inefficient.”

He said that personnel to be affected by the abolition of the PAGC would be able to avail of benefits under existing laws, and that his office would work with the Department of Budget and Management to ensure the smooth winding up of the PAGC’s activities, the deadline of which has been set for Dec. 31.

In addition to its Legal and Legislative Divisions, EO 13 creates the Investigative and Adjudicatory Division under ODESLA which shall be responsible for the investigative and adjudicative functions of the PAGC.

Assistant Executive Secretary for Legal Affairs Ronaldo A. Geron is the officer-in-charge of ODESLA. Geron has served the government in various capacities for over 20 years, including provincial administrator of Batangas and member of the provincial board.

Geron graduated from the University of the Philippines College of Law in 1987 and was admitted to the Bar in 1988. He also taught local governments, labor law and constitutional law at the University of Batangas.

***

Aquino joins call for sobriety between North, South Korea

President Benigno S. Aquino III has joined other nations today in calling for sobriety and an end to the renewed tension between North and South Korea which exchanged artillery fire Tuesday.

Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda echoed the President statement during a press briefing where he assured families and relatives of Filipinos working and residing in both countries that the government is closely monitoring the situation there.

The President, according to Lacierda has ordered the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and other agencies concerned with migrant workers to implement precautionary measures to protect and ensure the safety of thousands of Filipino migrant workers in the Korean Peninsula.

“We are closely monitoring it and I have tasked the relevant agencies to review their plans concerning the safety of our citizens there,” the President said in a text message he sent to Malacanang reporters.

Lacierda said Philippine Ambassador to South Korea Louie Cruz has informed them that there are no plans yet of evacuation but certain precautionary measures had been undertaken.

DFA Undersecretary for Migrant Workers’ Affairs Esteban Conejos informed the President that the DFA is prepared to evacuate all 60,000 Filipinos in South Korea if and when needed.

Lacierda noted that the constant tension in the Korean Peninsula that started with North Korea’s nuclear testing two years ago prompted the Philippine government to draw up a contingency plan that includes mobilizing an extensive network of Filipino community leaders in dangerous situations.

He admitted that the Chief Executive is convening his security officials, which include the National Security Council and the Department of National Defense this afternoon, to discuss in the Cluster meeting the immediate possible response of the Philippine government to the concerns of the Korean situation.

There are sixty thousand Filipino nationals in South Korea and only nine are working in North Korea. Of the nine Filipino nationals, five are working for the United Nations, and four are working for a foreign international tobacco company.

***

Malacañang says no need for Cabinet performance check

There is no need to conduct a performance check on the Cabinet nor set a date to assess performance in various government agencies.

Thus said Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda in a press briefing on Wednesday (Nov. 24) at Malacañang even as he emphasized that President Benigno S. Aquino III is in constant communication with his Cabinet officials on a daily basis to ensure that their performance are on track.

“Ang Pangulo naman patuloy ang trabaho, patuloy rin ang pag-a-assess niya at pagpupulong sa mga cabinet secretaries, on a daily basis nakikipag-usap sa kanyang mga kalihim. So, alam niya po kung ano ang ginagawa ng kanyang mga kalihim”, Lacierda said.

“May daily trabaho ang Pangulo, may daily assessment rin na ginagawa ang ating Pangulo, hindi po natin kailangan ng one final date, it’s being done on a regular basis and the President is aware of what each cabinet official is doing”, he added.

Lacierda was reacting to calls from critics to conduct a performance assessment of cabinet officials.

He said that critics will always find fault with the cabinet officials adding that they are exerting necessary efforts to ensure the delivery of services to the people.

“There are some people who will always find fault with the cabinet, as far as the cabinet members are concerned, we are performing our best”, Lacierda noted.

In fact, he said, the economy is doing well under their concerted efforts to push the Aquino administration’s programs particularly those that will address poverty and promote good governance.

Lacierda added that by next year, more programs on poverty alleviation will be in place pending the budget approval.

“Hopefully the budget will be approved within this year, once it is approved we can move forward and address all these concerns specifically on poverty reduction and promotion of good governance”, he stressed.

Lacierda also expressed commitment for Cabinet members to do better than their present standing.

“It’s always a constant call for us to improve and to serve better the needs of the Filipino people. We are fully aware of that, iyan po ang aming trabaho and that’s a commitment we intend to keep”, Lacierda said.

------------------------
Reference:

Press and Information Section
Email: info@philippinesusa.org
Tel. no.: 202-467-9432

Fernbank Museum of Natural History Premieres "Winter Wonderland"

2010-11-22T07:29:00.000-08:00

Front row: Doddy Ward (pres., Fil-Am Assoc. of Greater Atlanta, Ces Alberto (tres., Galing Foundation, Inc.) & Didi O'Connor (pres., Philippine American Chamber of Commerce in GA)
Back row: TJ Ward, Dr. Bobbi Hohmann (curator, Fernbank Museum's McClatchey Collection Curator and Winter Wonderland), Tony Alberto (artist, "Simbang Gabi" Philippine Tree) & Ralph O'Connor

Atlanta, GA

Tuesday, November 16 at 6:30pm, the Fernbank Museum of Natural History (767 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta 30307) hosted the premiere of "Winter Wonderland". The exhibit showcases decorated trees depicting celebrations of holidays, cultures and traditions around the world.

"Winter Wonderland: Celebrations and Traditions Around the World" is on view November 17, 2010 - January 5, 2011. The programming series featuring decorated trees, dance groups,
musical acts, craft demonstrations, storytelling and more. Decorated by local community partners and Consulate offices, the trees twinkle with lights, shine with colors, and glimmer with a variety of cultural ornaments that recognize the diversity of cultural celebrations around the world.

Admission to Winter Wonderland is included with Museum admission and is free for members.

"Simbang Gabi", the Philippine Tree by artist Tony Alberto is sponsored by the Philippine Honorary Consulate and Galing Foundation, Inc.

Embassy News: Use of ISO Initials PH and PHL

2010-11-18T10:37:00.000-08:00

Use of ISO Initials PH and PHL

15 NOVEMBER 2010, WASHINGTON, DC – The Department of Foreign Affairs of the Philippines reiterated its directive instructing all offices in the Department and all Foreign Service Posts to use the initials PH or PHL, when referring to the Philippines.

The ISO developed the ISO 3166-1 codes, assigning two-letter (alpha-2) and three-letter (alpha-3) codes for its member countries. The Philippines, as represented by the Bureau of Product Standards, has been assigned the codes PH and PHL, respectively.

Prior to the shift, it has been common practice to use ‘RP’ referring to “Republic of the Philippines,” which is not in accordance with ISO 3166-1. This has led to ambiguity and confusion due to other countries also using the same acronym.

The PH and PHL codes are now being used in airline ticketing, currencies, internationally-traded shares of stocks, and an increasing number of Philippine media organizations. The DFA, in particular, reflects the use of the alpha-3 code PHL in the Philippine electronic passport.

Founded in 1947, the ISO is a non-government organization composed of a network of national standards institutes from 163 countries. Its Central Secretariat is located in Geneva, Switzerland.

Galing Foundation, Inc. announces its nomination process to award a student for its 4th Youth Leadership Award:

2010-11-16T05:41:00.000-08:00

2010 Youth Leadership Award Nomination

************************************

Galing Foundation, Inc. announces its nomination process to award a student for its 4th Youth Leadership Award:

Purpose
In partnership with the office of the Philippine Honorary Consulate General in Atlanta, GFI promotes the importance of volunteerism, active engagement and commitment among the youth, in charitable organizations that benefits the community and beyond for a common good.

The Honorees
2009 – Joanne Kelly Utt of Senoia, GA
2008 - Janice Alcalde of Chamblee, GA
2007 – Omar Ragheb of Atlanta, GA

Selection Guidelines
The Galing Foundation, Inc. Board and its designee will select one student from age 6-17 years old.

The student must be from the Filipino community whom you think have made valuable contributions to the school and community in the state of Georgia.

Procedure
Nominations may come from a resident of Georgia nominating a student of Filipino heritage attending a school in the state of Georgia. The nomination must be in writing and must be mailed (electronically or via postal service) to Galing Foundation, Inc. by no later than November 18, 2010.

I. Selection: A selection committee composed of 3 distinguished members serving in the state of Georgia will make the final selection.

II. Criteria for selection will be based on the following:
A. Academic Excellence: Each nominee shall provide proof of academic achievement as well as active involvement in extra-curricular activities of the school.

B. Community Service: Willingly contributes his/her time and resources to schools and charitable organizations benefiting communities in need.

C. Leadership: Demonstrates self initiative and commitment in promoting educational and charitable activities.

D. Character: Demonstrates genuine concern for others. Sets a positive example for youth to emulate and displays an exemplary disposition towards others.

Award The honoree will receive an award of recognition from The office of Philippine Honorary Consulate General & the Board of Galing Foundation, Inc. and a minimum of $400 U.S. savings bond

Announcement of winner will be made by December 1, 2010 through GFI blog
http://galingfoundation.blogspot.com and its media partners.

The Awards dinner will be held on Friday, December 3, 2010 at 6pm at: Canton House
(4825 Buford Hwy., Chamblee, GA 30341)

****************************************************************************

2010 GFI Youth Leadership Award
NOMINATION FORM

Complete Name: ______________________________________________________________

Complete Address: ____________________________________________________________

City_________________________________ GA Zip Code: _________________________

Date: __________________

Please provide a rationale in each area why this person has been nominated.

A. Academic Excellence:

B. Community Service:

C. Leadership:

D. Character:

Submitted by:
Tel. No.:
Email Address:
Upon completion of this form, please email it to: galingfoundation@yahoo.com or
mail it to: Galing Foundation, Inc. 1050 Wilde Run Court Roswell, GA 30075

For further inquiries, please call: Ana Blackburn, GFI Program Director at 404-925-2639

Galing Foundation, Inc. is a public not for profit 501 © 3 tax exempt charitable organization initiated in May of 2005. It is committed to offer informational and educational programs through community partnerships as well as promoting the importance of functional and English literacy in rural areas of the Philippines as the foundation for future development, working towards awareness on global citizenry thereby provides educational resources to Filipino indigent children in public schools, libraries and day care centers.

***********************************
You yourself must be an example to them by doing good works of every kind. – Titus 2:7
Train up a child the way he should go; even when he is old, he will not depart from it. – Proverbs 22:6

"It is I who is honored to serve." - M. Barredo

2010-11-10T09:15:00.000-08:00

Atlanta, GA

On Tuesday, Nov. 9, a diverse crowd flocked the Fox Theater as the evening opened with a pre-show honoring Ms. Maniya Barredo, the first Filipino Prima Ballerina for her 50th year in performing arts. The United States of America and the Philippine flag were waved on stage as the "Ating Tinig" quartet (Ed & Beth Villanueva, Didi O'Connor and Al Dampog) lead the audience in singing both national anthems, "Star Spangled Banner" followed by "Lupang Hinirang". Students of the Metropolitan Ballet Theater, leaders from the Filipino community namely Doddy Ward, pres. of Filipino American Association of Greater Atlanta (Fil-Am), Esther Wilson, chair of the Federation of Philippine American Organizations in GA (FPOAG), Didi O'Connor, pres. of Philippine American Chamber of Commerce in GA, Inc.(PACCGA), Phil Aragon, pres. of the Philippine American Center in GA (PACG) and Father Chito Palang of St. Thomas Aquinas who represents the Filipino faith community and Lori Davis assistant to the Philippine Honorary Consul General for the Southeastern U.S. witnessed the award ceremony. "The Philippine Honorary Consul General Raoul R. Donato presents the plaque to Ms. Maniya Barredo in recognition of her 50th Anniversary in the performing arts and holding the prestigious title of "Prima Ballerina" and for her outstanding and exemplary service to the Filipino-American community of Georgia and the Southeastern United States. Presented on this day, November 9, 2010" - L. Davis

A congratulatory message from President Aquino was read, conveying his thanks to Ms. Barredo for bringing honor to the Philippines and for her commitment in improving her craft and in developing the next generation of artists.

As Ms. Barredo took center stage, thanking her family, her colleagues, MBT family, the Honorary Consul General and everyone in the audience, she humbly responded to the president's message by saying, "It is I who is honored to serve. As a proud Filipino American, I couldn't be more grateful. We must all stand tall and go out there because we are the resource of the country-the Philippines."

In her introduction to the highlight of the evening, the performance of the multi-awarded (nationally and internationally) Bayanihan Philippine National Dance Company, she emphasized that the group is truly an amazing ambassador of goodwill-always true to the spirit of bayanihan.

The pre-show award ceremony of the Bayanihan Philippine National Dance Company at the Fox Theater was presented in coordination with the Phlippine Honorary Consulate General Raoul "Ray" Donato, Metropolitan Ballet Theater and Galing Foundation, Inc. Board. The reception was sponsored by the Metropolitan Ballet Theater.

Special thanks to Sachi Koto Communications, Mabuhay and members of the Filipino community.

A Message to the First Filipino Prima Ballerina, Ms. Maniya Barredo from Philippine President Benigno S. Aquino III

2010-11-10T09:01:00.000-08:00

Manila
09 November 2010

MESSAGE

I am pleased to convey my greetings to the First Prima Ballerina, Ms. Maniya Barrdo, on the occasion of her 50th anniversary in the dance profession.

A gifted artst and performer extraordinaire, Ms. Barredo has brought honor to the Philippines as she regaled international audiences with her lithe and graceful motion. As the first Filipino Prima Ballerina, Ms. Barredo committed herself in improving her craft and in developing future dance artists.

I congratulate Ms. Barredo on her outstanding career and for her significant contribtions in the enrichment of Philippine arts. I wish her greater success as she continues to lead the Metropolitan Ballet Theater in Alpharetta, Georgia and train the next generation of performers.

I thank everyone who has been instrumental in Ms. Barredo's success and for this honor that you confer on our country.

Mabuhay si Maniya Barredo!
Mabuhay ang sining Pilipino!

(signed)
Benigno S. Aquino III