Quezon City News January 2013

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Quezon City - Archived News
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Wars of ancient history were about possessions, territory, power, control, family, betrayal, lover's quarrel, politics and sometimes religion.

But we are in the Modern era and supposedly more educated and enlightened .

Think about this. Don't just brush off these questions.

  • Why is RELIGION still involved in WARS? Isn't religion supposed to be about PEACE?
  • Ask yourself; What religion always campaign to have its religious laws be accepted as government laws, always involved in wars and consistently causing WARS, yet insists that it's a religion of peace?

WHY??

There are only two kinds of people who teach tolerance:
  1. The Bullies. They want you to tolerate them so they can continue to maliciously deprive you. Do not believe these bullies teaching tolerance, saying that it’s the path to prevent hatred and prejudice.
  2. The victims who are waiting for the right moment to retaliate. They can’t win yet, so they tolerate.

Dietary supplement is a product that contains vitamins, minerals, herbs or other botanicals, amino acids, enzymes, and/or other ingredients intended to supplement the diet. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has special labeling requirements for dietary supplements and treats them as foods, not drugs.

Manufacturers and distributors of dietary supplements and dietary ingredients are prohibited from marketing products that are adulterated or misbranded. That means that these firms are responsible for evaluating the safety and labeling of their products before marketing to ensure that they meet all the requirements of DSHEA and FDA regulations.

DSWDs sustainable livelihood exhibit at its central office

By Leilani Junio [(PNA), HBC/LSJ/ABB ]

MANILA, Jan. 31 (PNA) -- Products from different program beneficiaries of the government -- like clocks, strawberry jams, and ginger tea -- are on exhibit and on sale at the Dept. of Social Welfare and Development central office.

The products have been exhibited at sustainable livelihood bazaars inside DSWD's central office at Batasan Hills in Quezon City since Monday as part of the week-long celebration of the department's 62nd Anniversary.

The products have been there since the opening of the Sustainable Livelihood Program Exhibit.

This features those produced by the DSWD's program's beneficiaries from Regions NCR I, II, II, IV-A, IV-B and CAR.

This community-based program is part of the DSWD’s Convergence Strategy for Poverty Reduction which provides entrepreneurial capacity building to improve the beneficiaries’ socio-economic status, according to Georgina Ann Hernandez, DSWD OIC-Director of Sustainable Livelihood Program.

In 2012, the program benefitted 142,210 households, of which 108,441 were Pantawid Pamilya beneficiaries while 33,769 households were non-Pantawid Pamilya.

In Region IV-A, the products on showcase are liquid soap, herbal, vigil candle made by boys in conflict with the law (or those boys under 18 years of age who committed petty crimes and offenses such as vagrancy, truancy, begging, alcohol use and are not considered criminal) at the National Training for School of Boys in Sampaloc, Tanay Rizal.

Erick Guevarra, DSWD Region IV-A Project Development Officer, explained that the training school was intended for boys in conflict with the law.

He said DSWD provided the trainings and skills for them as part of DSWD’s aims to rehabilitate them and make them earned a sustainable income while undergoing rehabilitation.

Small, medium and big decorated bags made from straws of soft drinks were also exhibited in a booth being manned by Tacita Botones, a beneficiary of Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) of DSWD in Pasig City.

Botones thanked the DSWD through its program Self-Employment Assistance Kaunlaran (SEA-K) for helping them by providing trainings and assistance in their association and encourage them how they can tap their potentials to earn sustainable income from livelihood programs.

Botones added she and other beneficiaries of 4Ps have availed themselves of the maximum loan amount of P10,000 each, without collateral and interest free and payable in 50 weeks.

She also added that she is very thankful that DSWD had come out with sustainable livelihood programs like this that provides economic benefits for Pantawid Pamilya beneficiaries.

The 4Ps, the government’s flagship program to address poverty and hunger among low-income Filipino families, grants start-up capital to open small enterprise like sari-sari store, hog production, vegetable farming, coffee production, weaving, and buy-and-sell business and others.

Hanging shell decors, bags and shoulder bags made from shells, shell curtains, shell cellphone pouch and others can also be seen and sold there made by beneficiaries from Sta. Ana, Cagayan.

Clocks, laminated belts, baskets and pots for plants and accessories made from recycled directories, magazines and newspapers were also displayed and being sold. These products are made by UPLiFT (Urban Program for Livelihood Finance and Training), an NGO specializing in microfinance and social services for the urban poor that also partners with DSWD in CAMANAVA areas.

Among the other products of beneficiaries visible in the showcase bazaar were Green Chilies and Atchara made by Calauag Micro Entrepreneur (CAME), a group of women entrepreneur being funded and assisted also by 4Ps, penny banks made from coconut and rattan, decorated wine bottles and other related products manufactured by persons with disability (PWD)s from Kalinga; Pattiking Tea (ginger tea) made by Banao Womens Organization beneficiaries, pen holders made by Haven for Children at Bonuan, Binloc, Dagupan, slippers and brooms from Abra; strawberry jams, cacao and others.

Protocol for peaceful demolition signed today

By Lucia F. Broño(RJB/LFB-PIA NCR/PCUP-PIO)

QUEZON CITY, Jan 30 (PIA) - - The Pre-Demolition Conference (PDC) guidelines signing was conducted Wednesday, January 30, by the Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor (PCUP) at Eurotel North EDSA, Quezon City.

The signing was led by PCUP Chairman Hernani B. Panganiban together with Philippine National Police Director for Operations PC/Supt. Alex Paul I. Monteagudo and Local Government (DILG) Undersecretary Francisco L. Fernandez.

The Pre-Demolition Conference Guideline stemmed from the violent demolition and eviction incident at Silverio Compound, Paranaque City on April 23, 2012.

After that incident, the former DILG Secretary Jesse M. Robredo issued a directive dated May 2, 2012 to Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Nicanor Bartolome to strictly observe protocol to put an end to the senseless hostility related to demolition and eviction of urban poor families.

On the same day, Secretary Robredo wrote to PCUP requesting assistance with regard to the said directives specifying the Commission’s role in the implementation of the pre-demolition conference.

PCUP initiated consultation meetings with all concerned agencies and came up with an agreement that a guideline must be drafted for an efficient implementation of the said directive. After a series of discussion and review the draft PDC guidelines was concluded.

The PDC guidelines contain the following : 1. No police assistance will be rendered nor police personnel be deployed to the demolition and/or eviction site unless an exhaustive consultation has been completed. 2. A pre-demolition conference must be conducted and the same will be deemed complied and completed.

With the above protocol, it is expected that all forms of violence related to demolition and eviction will be trimmed down if not eliminated.

QC cops eye SWAT teams near malls

(RSJ, GMA News)

Police in Quezon City may soon deploy Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) teams near malls, in the wake of last weekend's robbery at the SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City.

Quezon City Police District chief Senior Superintendent Richard Albano was quoted in a report by dzBB's Allan Gatus as saying that the SWAT teams and their prospective quick response to contingencies will deter criminals from targeting malls.

But Albano also pushed for X-ray machines at malls so security can instantly detect firearms being brought inside, the same radio report said.

On Tuesday, the QCPD and Bureau of Fire Protection inspected security and safety at malls in the city.

Last Saturday, a group of robbers struck at the SM Megamall, taking jewelry from at least two establishments there.

An initial investigation showed the men bought wrenches from a hardware store in the mall and used them to break the showcases. They then fired shots and escaped during the ensuing confusion.

No one was reported hurt in the incident.

Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police reassured the public that security at malls in general remains relatively tight.

A report by dzBB's Glen Juego quoted PNP spokesman Chief Superintendent Generoso Cerbo Jr. as saying that mall-goers should not be afraid to go to malls after last weekend's Megamall heist.

PDEA intensifies anti-drug plan; focuses on high-value, high-impact targets

By Jimmyley I. Guzman (PDEA-PIO/RJB/JEG-PIA NCR)

QUEZON CITY, Jan 28 (PIA) -- Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) chief Undersecretary Arturo G Cacdac Jr. called for an intensified campaign against illegal drugs through quality anti-illegal drug operations.

Cacdac directed all operating units to go after drug syndicates and personalities in the priority target list; dismantle clandestine laboratories and chemical warehouses; control chemical diversion; and confiscate significant volume of dangerous drugs and, or controlled precursors and essential chemicals (CPECs).

“PDEA hopes to establish an anti-drug blueprint that will prove to be effective and responsive, thus, creating doable solutions to the drug problem,” the PDEA chief said in compliance to the operational directive of the President for the agency to make significant dents against the illegal drug trade.

He also said that anti-illegal drug operations must be well-planned, well-documented and must be done in accordance with the provisions of the anti-drug law.

DSWD marks 62 years of public service

(PNA), PDS/LSJ

MANILA, Jan. 27 (PNA) -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)on Monday will mark its 62nd year in public service with a week-long celebration with the theme "DSWD@62: Sama-samang Husay Tungo sa Tagumpay," at its central office at the Batasan Hills in Quezon City.

DSWD Secretary Corazon Juliano-Soliman said on Friday that after more than six decades of public service, the DSWD will continue to uphold its commitment in providing excellent public service by strengthening partnerships with various sectors to ensure that programs and services that address the needs of the poor and those most deserving of government assistance will be delivered

The week-long celebrations, from Jan. 28 to Feb.1, will include the awarding of citations and recognitions namely: Pagkilala sa Natatanging Kontribusyon sa Bayan (PaNaTa Ko sa Bayan) Awards which recognizes the contribution of DSWD partners and stakeholders; the Program on Awards and Incentives for Service Excellence (PRAISE) which acknowledges outstanding DSWD employees; and Loyalty Awards which recognizes officials and employees who have rendered 10 to 35 years of dedicated service.

The awards rites will be on February 1 at the DSWD Central Office.

Signing of a memorandum of agreement between the DSWD and the Rags2Riches, Inc. for the Paghahabi Para sa Pantawid Pamilya project to enhance the skills of beneficiaries of Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program in weaving and sewing, the inauguration of the new office building of the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan – Comprehensive Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS), launching of the information and communication technology exhibit that features the three (3) information systems developed by the DSWD for a more efficient delivery of social services, ceremonial signing of the Collective Negotiation Agreement (CNA) for 2013 – 2015, and the National Assembly of the Association of DSWD Social Workers (ADSWI) are some of the activities lined up for the celebration.

Soliman said vowed that as DSWD marks its anniversary the department will continue to pursue and strengthen its vision to assume the lead role in social protection and empower the poor, vulnerable and disadvantaged sectors of society.

Two lanes of Q. Ave. closed to traffic on Saturday - MMDA

(PNA), FPV/CLTC

MANILA, Jan. 26 (PNA) -- The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) on Friday announced the temporary closure of two lanes of Quezon Avenue (westbound) from 12 midnight on Saturday (January 26) to 2 pm of Sunday (January 27) for the launching of TV 5’s new show “Wowowillie”.

MMDA Assistant General Manager for Operations Emerson Carlos advised motorists to use alternate routes as traffic is expected to be heavy along Quezon Avenue going to West Avenue, particularly in front of Delta Theater.

Examiner Street along Quezon Avenue leading to West Avenue can be used as alternate route from 6 am to 2 pm.

“We will deploy more than 200 personnel to supervise traffic and crowd control in the area, together with the Quezon City Police and D.P.O.S.,” Carlos said.

The temporary closure of the two outermost lanes of Quezon Avenue beside Delta Theater was requested by the show’s organizers as it will be utilized for their bikers and skateboarders for their inaugural show. Bike ramps will be installed for the bike stunts, for safety purposes.

“We will be providing the public with traffic advisories in the area through our LED billboards, Twitter and Facebook accounts,” Carlos said, as he advised non-participants to avoid the Delta Theater area on Saturday.

NGCP donates police outpost to Araneta Substation host community

(PNA), HBC/JS/PR/ABB

MANILA, Jan. 24 (PNA) -- The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines turned over to Barangay Doña Imelda a newly-constructed police outpost beside its Araneta Substation in E. Rodriguez Avenue, Quezon City.

Inaugurated Jan 9, 2013, the project is a collaboration between NGCP and the Barangay Council of Doña Imelda, the substation’s host community.

The outpost will be manned 24 hours by the joint forces of PNP Station 11 and the barangay’s Public Safety Officers.

In her message during the inauguration, Barangay Chairman Concepcion Malañgen thanked NGCP for heeding the barangay’s call to provide an outpost within their area to increase police visibility and address problems on illegal vendors and bystander threats.

The project will also benefit the adjacent barangays of Tatalon, Dona Aurora, Damayang Lagi, and Santol.

The Araneta Substation—with an installed capacity of 900 megavolt amperes (MVA)—supplies power to Metro Manila and the lower part of North Luzon, with MERALCO as one of its major customers.

It also links the South Luzon and Bicol grids to the Metro Manila and North Luzon grids.

Quezon City gov’t moves tax payment deadline to Jan. 31

By Jeannette I. Andrade (Philippine Daily Inquirer)

The Quezon City Council has extended the deadline for the payment of business taxes, charges and fees for the first quarter of the year to Jan. 31. Monday, Jan. 21, was supposed to be the last day for tax payments after the Jan. 20 deadline fell on a Sunday.

The city council cited the “large number of taxpayers expected to flock to the Quezon City Hall compound and the limitation of the existing manpower of the city treasurer’s office” in justifying the deadline extension.

There are some 63,000 registered business establishments in Quezon City. In a statement, Office of the Mayor chief of staff Aldrin Cuña said that apart from the new deadline, the working hours of office personnel involved in tax assessment and payments have also been extended to accommodate taxpayers.

Maynilad allots P17B for infra projects this year

By Jimmyley I. Guzman (Maynilad/RJB/JEG-PIA NCR)

QUEZON CITY, Jan 22 (PIA) -- Maynilad Water Services, Inc. is set to improve its infrastructures and water services in parts of Metro Manila and Cavite province this year.

The west zone concessionaire has allotted P17.2 billion for its water and waste water projects, more than double its capital expenditure in 2012.

“The previous years have been about water service transformation. Now that we have improved and expanded our water services in the west zone, our next challenge is to accelerate our sewerage and septage coverage. This will require a lot of resources but we are committed to doing our part in protecting the health of our customers and the environment,” Maynilad President and CEO Ricky P. Vargas said.

According to Maynilad, P9.303 billion of the P17.2 billion capital investment will go to the construction of waste water facilities in several areas such as sewage treatment plants (STPs) and conveyance systems for Valenzuela, Pasay, and Muntinlupa.

Some P3.762 billion will also be spent to lay new infrastructure (pipelines, pumping stations, and reservoirs) that will provide potable water supply in unserved portions of North Caloocan, Valenzuela and Novaliches in Quezon City, Parañaque, Las Piñas, Muntinlupa, Imus, Kawit, Bacoor, and Cavite City.

Meanwhile, the P2.134 billion will be for Maynilad’s Non-Revenue Water (NRW) reduction program, which covers meter and pressure management, active leakage control, primary line assessment, selective pipe replacement, and district metered area management.

Key company facilities such as pumping stations and reservoirs will be upgraded using a budget of P384 million, while P960 million will go to water source development.

Maynilad also assured that the 2013 infrastructure budget that will be funded by internally generated funds and the recently secured loan from the World Bank will also go to other initiatives such as the building of other facilities for operations support programs.

NFA’s New Administrator Assumes Office

By Ellalyn B. De Vera

MANILA Philippines --- The new administrator of the National Food Authority (NFA) assumed office on Monday, taking his oath before his former boss, Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary Proceso Alcala, at the DA Central Office in Quezon City.

NFA Administrator Orlan Calayag’s appointment was recommended by Alcala to President Aquino, who approved it last January 18.

“I believe he is best fit for the position,” said the DA chief. “He has the experience as (bank) manager, and capability to manage the agency.”

Calayag had served as Alcala’s chief of staff when he was still congressman in Quezon province.

“I have recommended him because I know we can continue our good working relationship,” Alcala said.

Prior to his appointment, Calayag was a patient services specialist at the Swedish Medical Center in Seattle, Washington.

He also worked as mortgage consultant at the Metropolitan Mortgage Group and auditor at the Bellevue Sheraton Hotel, also in Seattle, Washington.


Maynilad more than doubles capex to P17.2-billion for 2013

By Euan Paulo C. Anonuevo (InterAksyon.com)

MANILA - Maynilad Water Services Inc has allocated a record budget this year for the utility's water and wastewater projects.

Ricky P. Vargas, Maynilad president and chief executive officer, said the company will invest P17.2 billion, or more than double the company's capital expenditures in 2012.

"The previous years have been about water service transformation. Now that we have improved and expanded our water services in the West Zone, our next challenge is to accelerate our sewerage and septage coverage. This will require a lot of resources but we are committed to doing our part in protecting the health of our customers and the environment," he said.

Maynilad’s capex will be funded by internally generated funds and a recently secured loan from the World Bank.

Around P9.303 billion of the P17.2 billion capex will go to the construction of wastewater facilities in several areas of the West Zone, such as sewage treatment plants and conveyance systems for Valenzuela, Pasay and Muntinlupa.

Another P3.762 billion will be spent to lay new infrastructure - pipelines, pumping stations and reservoirs - that will provide potable water supply in unserved portions of north Caloocan, Valenzuela and Novaliches in Quezon City, Parañaque, Las Piñas, Muntinlupa, Imus, Kawit, Bacoor, and Cavite City.

Another P2.134 billion has been allotted for Maynilad’s non-revenue water reduction program, which covers meter and pressure management, active leakage control, primary line assessment, selective pipe replacement, and district metered area management.

Key company facilities such as pumping stations and reservoirs will be upgraded using a budget of P384 million, while P960 million will go to water source development.

The rest of the 2013 capex will go to other initiatives such as the building of other facilities for operations support programs.

A joint venture between Metro Pacific Investments Corp and DMCI Holdings Inc, Maynilad services the water and wastewater requirements of the West Zone of state-run Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System.

The company's budget for 2013 is the biggest laid down since the MWSS concession was privatized in 1997.

Maynilad is chaired by Manuel V. Pangilinan, who also chairs TV5, of which InterAksyon.com is the online news portal.

Pablo victims to get P20M from Belmonte PDAF

(PNA), LAM/PR/PJN

QUEZON CITY, Jan. 19 (PNA) -- Victims of super typhoon Pablo will be receiving additional relief assistance with the release of P20 million allocated from the Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) of Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr.

The Speaker asked for the allocation of funds from the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) under the Comprehensive Integrated Delivery of Social Services (CIDSS) of the Department of Social Services and Development (DSWD) in response to the alarming devastation caused by the super typhoon.

Statistics released by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) has pegged the death toll from the typhoon at 1,067; with 2,666 injured 834 missing as of its last report on December 25, 2012.

Pablo (international name Bopha) has affected 30 provinces in the regions of Mimaropa (Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, Palawan), Western Visayas, Central Visayas, Eastern Visayas, the Zamboanga Peninsula, Northern Mindanao, Davao, Soccskargen and Caraga.

Damage to agriculture, infrastructure and property was estimated at more than P45 billion.

Belmonte said these funds would be distributed with priority to areas hardest hit by the disaster.

In his letter of request last month, the Speaker assured the DBM that he “will closely coordinate with the DSWD as to the distribution per province once the fund has been released”. Notice of approval for release of these funds was received this week through a Special Allotment Release Order (SARO).

Drug dealer gunned down

By Melnie Ragasa-Jimena

A man reportedly engaged in illegal drug trade was gunned down while a tricycle driver was hit by a stray bullet in Salaan Compound, Bgy. Culiat, Quezon City on Wednesday night.

Killed was Joey Escalante, 29, of Ermin Garcia St., Bgy. E. Rodriguez.

Case investigator PO2 Alvin Quisumbing said a sachet of suspected shabu was found from the victim.

Another trike driver Mastora Calibay, who was hit by a stray bullet, said he did not see who shot him and Escalante, who died on the spot.

Found near Escalante’s body was a shotgun, a fired cartridge and three 9mm bullets.

Metro road closures

(Manila Standard Today)

SOME roads in Metro Manila will be closed to traffic for repairs, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority announced on Wednesday.

The repairs will last from January16 to 21, the MMDA said in its Twitter account and will include Mindanao Avenue in Quezon City, from Road 8 to North Avenue; Congressional Avenue in Quezon City, from Virginia St. to Visayas Avenue; Ortigas Avenue, Pasig City, Green Meadows to Tiendesitas; and McArthur Highway in Valenzuela City, Poblacion Road to Valenzuela City Hall.

Police, public team up to collar 7 rob suspects

By Julie M. Aurelio (Philippine Daily Inquirer)

The combined efforts of policemen pounding the beat and concerned citizens quick to alert authorities led to the arrest of suspected armed robbers in separate incidents on Monday night in Quezon City.

Quezon City Police District (QCPD) director Senior Supt. Richard Albano also attributed the arrests to the checkpoints set up by policemen in line with the ongoing nationwide gun ban.

Albano said that aside from violating the gun ban, the seven would likewise be charged with robbery and possession of illegal drugs.

“We call on the public to come forward and file complaints against these men if they were victimized,” he added.

Four of the seven suspects were apprehended by members of the Talipapa police station, according to police chief Supt. Michael Macapagal, after they received a tip from a woman about an ongoing robbery at the Balintawak Market on Edsa at 4:30 p.m. on Monday.

They were identified as Joseph Madrigal, 29; Albert Mariano, 19; Raffy Morales, 36; and Arnel Bacus, 20, all residents of Quezon City.

Their victim, businesswoman Myrna Palero, said she lost P7,000 in cash and two cell phones after the suspects snatched her bag.

The four men were later spotted in another area in the market, as if looking for another victim. The police, however, arrested them after Palero confirmed that they were the ones who took her bag.

Palero recovered her valuables but only P2,000 remained of the money while one of her cell phones was missing.

Seized from the four men were three .38-cal. revolvers, a fan knife and four sachets of what was believed to be “shabu.”

At 7:30 p.m., Macapagal’s men arrested two more men, this time at the Mindanao Market in Barangay (village) Tandang Sora, after they were caught in the act of robbing a fruit vendor.

Macapagal said his men were on patrol when they chanced upon Edwin Suarez, 39, and Bong Nova, 31, grabbing the beltbag of Lucila Acoba, 56.

Meanwhile, the seventh suspect, 21-year-old Rex Roa, was arrested as he was walking behind a woman on Dupax Street in Barangay Old Balara with a .38-cal. gun hidden under his shirt.

Batasan police station commander Ramon Pranada said that several robberies had been reported in the area, with students as the victims.

Men and women who make QC proud

By Domini M. Torrevillas (FROM THE STANDS, The Philippine Star)

For the last 10 years, the Quezon City government has been giving awards to Most Outstanding Citizens and Organizations for improving the quality of life of city residents. I will add, for inspiring other cities to follow suit. The awardees have made a dint in various fields such as in the judiciary, visual or performing arts, literature, journalism, music, medicine, business, and the academe. Every year, a board of judges scrutinizes nominees’ qualifications and contributions carefully, it’s a formidable challenge choosing the year’s winners from a long, long list.

The Gawad Parangal awards was conceptualized by a visionary, former QC Mayor Sonny Belmonte, who is now Speaker of the House of Representatives.

At the awarding program last October, incumbent Mayor Herbert Bautista rallied city residents on how they can emulate what the awardees had accomplished “in the task of nation-building, and also in the continued quest for the city’s sustainable development.”

The awardees for the 10th Gawad ng Parangal were honored at the city’s celebration of its 73rd founding anniversary at the Crowne Plaza Galleria Manila.

The 2012 recipients are Health Secretary Enrique Ona, dean of the Ateneo de Manila University Graduate School Dr. Alfredo Bengzon, multi-awarded musical artist Fides Cuyugan-Asencio, journalist Jose “Butch” Dalisay, visual artist Araceli Limcaco-Dans, economist and multi-media journalist Solita “Winnie” Collas Monsod, beauty and fashion expert Ricky Reyes, multi-awarded architect and designer Abelardo Tolentino Jr., and educator and publishing entrepreneur Ester Vibal.

A special feature in the evening’s grand affair was the Tandang Sora award, created to honor the memory of the Grand Old Lady of the Katipunan, Melchora “Tandang Sora” Aquino, born 200 years ago. The award was presented by the city government to Helena Z. Benitez, 94-year-old former senator, educator and women’s rights advocate. (HZB was a Gawad Parangal awardee in 2004.) The award, which in succeeding years will be given during the heroine’s birth anniversary on Jan. 6, is being conferred to individuals who best exemplify the life and advocacy of Tandang Sora. Opinion ( Article MRec ), pagematch: 1, sectionmatch: 1

Also given 2012 Gawad Parangal awards as outstanding organizations were Ayala Land Inc., Ortigas and Co., Metro Bank Foundation, Philippine Franchising Association, Philippine Children’s Medical Center, Himlayang Pilipino, Inc., and the Philippine Educational Theatre Association (PETA). These institutions have helped in the development of the city’s educational, financial, banking, real estate, medical services and cultural landscapes.

Former UP president Dr. Emerlinda Roman chaired the 2012 selection board, whose other members were Integrated Bar of the Philippines-QC Chapter president Atty. Victoria Loanzon, former councilor Alberto Galarpe, senior adviser to the mayor Dr. Manuel Alba, gender and development resource and coordinating office head Dr. Mary Ruby Palma, and cultural and tourism affairs office chief Rosario Yara.

Previous awardees included the late President Corazon Aquino, Lea Salonga, Charo Santos, Frank Sionil Jose, Flor Rosario Braid, Cheche Lazaro, Atty. Felipe Gozon, Rustica Carpio, Jullie Yap Daza, Fr. Joaquin Bernas, S.J., and the late comedy king, Dolphy.

The accomplishments of the awardees are too numerous to be accommodated in this space. One who goes through their records wonders how a city has nurtured so many outstanding individuals. The following years will reveal more of its gifted and dedicated individuals. 

The outstanding citizens are most impressive, like Secretary Ona for his, among many qualifications, “skills, among which is his transforming of the National Kidney and Transplant Institute (incidentally a QC Gawad Parangal awardee of 2011), into “one of the most modern, well-administered, and excellent medical centers in the country.” There is, too, Dr. Bengzon, known for his “achievement of personal health and socio-economic welfare for every Filipino.”

Then there’s the fiery Solita Collas-Monsod, economist-academician, broadcast and print journalist, presented as “a highly credible multi-media journalist listened to and ready by government policymakers, business leaders, politicians, academicians, students, employees, and the man in the street.”

I personally know the awardee Esther Asuncion Vibal, who started her professional career as a newspaper lifestyle editor, and rose to become president of Vibal Publishing House, Inc., one of the country’s reliable printers and publishers of educational textbooks. Esther remains committed to her humanitarian and socio-civic commitments, extending assistance to economically disadvantaged groups.

She does not know me, but I have long been an admirer of Araceli Limcaco Dans, who told interviewers she paints and draws from life because colors in life are different from colors in photographs. Her marvelous pieces, lyrical yet realistic, are like photographs rich in fine details and colors of life executed in various paint media. No wonder her works are found in hundreds of institutional and individual or personal collections.

A most touching response was made by awardee Ricardo Enrique Reyes Jr., who seemed at a loss for words, unbelieving, that he would be recognized by the city as an outstanding citizen. Ricky Reyes’ story is fascinating. Popularly known as “Mother Ricky,” he started his network of 44 Gandang Ricky Reyes salons with a modest capital out of personal savings from his earnings as a floor sweeper in an aunt’s beauty parlor. Now one of the country’s well-known hair specialists, he hosts a television show giving tips in hair styling and makeup, and runs a nationwide livelihood program called “Isang Gunting, Isang Suklay,” which helps those who want to earn their keep in hairstyling. Then there is his Child Haus (a Center for Health and Life Improvement) which is a halfway house for cancer-stricken children from the provinces seeking treatment in Manila.

Forbes magazine listed Mother Ricky as one of  its 48 “Heroes of Philanthropy” in Asia.

Email:dominitorrevillas@gmail.com

Clark airport-TriNoma transport service opens

By Cliff Harvey C. Venzon

A DEDICATED bus service between TriNoma Mall in Quezon City and Clark International Airport will start tomorrow, Tuesday, in a bid to boost passenger traffic at the Angeles-City based aviation hub.

The "TriNoma-Clark Airport Lounge" will provide dedicated buses that will ply directly to the Clark International Airport on a 24-hour basis, Victor Jose I. Luciano, president and chief executive officer of Clark International Airport Corp., said in a statement on Monday.

“Connectivity to Metro Manila will be much improved when a dedicated first class bus service will start plying their route via TriNoma-Clark-TriNoma with affordable fare of only P200,” Mr. Luciano said.

“The Clark Airport Lounge is fully furnished located at the TriNoma Mall which is open 24/7 and passengers would have a taste of the first class amenities of the lounge," he added.

Mr. Luciano said the transport services would be provided by Philtranco, Genesis, Victory Liner and Five Star.

The statement said "passenger traffic is expected to further increase in the Clark International Airport with the scheduled opening of the TriNoma-Clark Airport Lounge on Jan. 15."

Clark International Airport recorded 1.31-million combined international and domestic passengers last year, up by 71.16% from 767,109 passengers in 2011.

Quezon City has new police chief

By Reinir Padua (The Philippine Star)

MANILA, Philippines - Senior Superintendent Richard Albano on Saturday took over as Quezon City’s new police chief, replacing Chief Superintendent Mario dela Vega, who is set to retire next month.

Just before assuming the directorship of the Quezon City Police District (QCPD), Albano was deputy director of the PNP Retirement Benefits Administration Service.

Albano is from the Philippine Military Academy Maharlika Class of 1984. He is a mistah of Senior Superintendent Joel Pagdilao, who currently holds the post of deputy director for administration of the QCPD.

Dela Vega, who reaches the mandatory retirement age of 56 in February, will go on non-duty status.

Dela Vega held the helm of the QCPD for almost a year, assuming the post of district director in February 2012. He led the QCPD to its fifth “Best Police District” award last year.

It was also under Dela Vega’s leadership when the QCPD managed to arrest members of the Ozamis robbery gang.

He also instituted the deactivation of the headquarters mobile patrol unit and the downloading of its vehicles and personnel to the police stations, increasing police presence, visibility and mobility on the streets.

Albano vowed to continue programs ins­tituted by Dela Vega. “The system is working. We just have to enhance it,” he said.

Albano had been with the QCPD before, heading the then Central Police District’s Special Project Unit in 2003.

He was also once head of the Intelligence and Investigation Division of the Northern Police District.

Albano had also been head of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group in Region 2.

He was also formerly the acting executive officer of the PNP Directorate for Logistics.

PhilHealth contribution hike hit

By Ryan Ponce Pacpaco

MEMBERS of the House of Representatives yesterday expressed differing views over the increase in members’ contributions to the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) which takes effect this month.

Marikina City Rep. Marcelino Teodoro welcomed the increase in PhilHealth contribution as long as PhilHealth keeps its word in increasing the health coverage of its members.

“PhilHealth should also improve their services especially the processing of reimbursement cheques to ensure the speedy response of the institution to the financial needs of its members,” Teodoro said.

Some said it should keep its promise of more benefits to be given to its members and wider coverage of illnesses to include heart ailment for children such as enlarged heart, as well as coverage for cervical cancer, heart bypass surgery and provision for artificial legs.

Quezon City Rep. Winston Castelo said any increase in PhilHealth contributions should be premised on the pursuit of health for all programs, which means the universal delivery of health services to all Filipinos.

“Unless the health authorities provide this health for all programs, PhilHealth has no business raising its contribution rates. Moreover, health authorities have to assure efficient, effective and graft free delivery of universal health services,” Castelo said.

Comelec, Deped, AFP and PNP to hold Unity Walk to mark start of election period

(PNA), HBC/JMC

MANILA, Jan 11 (PNA) -- The Commission on Elections, together with three other government agencies, will hold a Unity Walk Jan 13 (Sunday) to mark the start of the election period.

The Dept. of Education, the Philippine National Police and the Armed Forces -- partner agencies of the poll body in the May polls -- will join the walk.

Comelec spokesperson James Jimenez said the unity walk will begin at 5 a.m. and a prayer rally will be held at 6 a.m. at the Quezon Memorial Circle in Quezon City.

"Ensuring safe, fair and free polls depends on the efforts of all stakeholders, working within a framework of non-partisan cooperation," Jimenez said in his official Twitter account.

Volunteers from election watchdog National Movement for Free Elections (Namfrel) will also join the event.


Free septic tank cleaning

(Manila Standard Today)

Maynilad Water Services will offer free septic tank cleaning to its customers in selected parts of Quezon City, Caloocan, Valenzuela, Malabon, and Navotas this month, Maynilad President Victorico P. Vargas announced on Wednesday.

Maynilad customers in Brgys. Doña Aurora, Sto. Niño, Katipunan, San Jose and Del Monte in Quezon City; Brgys. 1 to 5 at Sangandaan in Caloocan City; Brgys. Paso De Blas, Malanday and Rincon in Valenzuela City; Brgys. Maysilo, Catmon, Baritan, Bayan-bayanan and Niugan in Malabon City; and Brgys. San Rafael and Bangkulasi in Navotas City can avail of the service.

Interested customers may call the Maynilad Hotline 1626 for further inquiry or visit the Maynilad website at www.mayniladwater.com.ph.

Call for the establishment of CCTVs in commercial establishments snowballs

(PNA), FFC/PR/EBP

MANILA, Jan. 9 (PNA) -- Another lawmaker has supported the proposal of commercial establishments to put up closed-circuit televisions (CCTV) to strengthen the campaign against criminal elements that attack banks, malls, shops and other business establishments.

Rep. Winston Castelo (2nd District, Quezon City) filed House Bill 6661 requiring the installation of a CCTV camera in every major business establishment located in a central or core business district or area on a compulsory basis and as a requirement for the issuance of business permits.

“As the saying goes, crimes cannot be committed without a witness. Offhand, a CCTV is a mere tool in case a crime was committed without a viable or willing witness at the scene and at the time that it happened,” Castelo said.

Castelo stressed that to make it more relevant, the CCTV shall also be manned by someone whose responsibility is to report to the nearest police station that a crime is being committed before the perpetrators could go scot-free.

The lawmaker said the Philippine National Police (PNP) should make itself available round-the-clock to receive calls and in fact, to have a quick-reaction-team at any time of the day in case a form of siege is actually being committed.“This way this whole proposal to require every business establishment to install a CCTV in its place of operation can only find meaning,” he added.

Under the bill to be known as the “Closed Circuit Television Camera Requirement Act of 2012,” local police stations or "police at the block" should also make available links with business establishments within their territorial jurisdiction to complement the presence of the CCTV.

It requires the central police headquarters to formulate rules, regulations, policies and an accreditation scheme that would technologically link its local police station with every business establishment within its territorial area.

The bill mandates a system of accreditation whereby business establishments may avail themselves immediate intervention or action from the police without prejudice to those non-accredited business establishments asking for protection.

Under the measure, the Business Permits and Licensing Office in every municipality, town or city shall require a CCTV as part of the requirements for registering a business or renewing its business license for major business establishments. Minor establishments may opt to waive this requirement.

The central PNP headquarters may coordinate with any of the giant telecommunication companies to avail of a facility or service that would facilitate every call for police intervention from any business establishment in need of the same.

Earlier, Reps. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo (2nd District, Pampanga) and Diosdado Arroyo (2nd District, Camarines Sur), also urged business establishments to put up CCTVs in their premises as proposed in House Bill 6720.

QC expands workings hours in January to serve taxpayers

By Alfred Kristoffer A. Guiang (RJB/AKG-PIA-NCR/QC-PAISO)

QUEZON CITY, Jan. 8 (PIA) -- The Quezon City government is calling on taxpayers renewing their business permits and licenses to take advantage of the expanded working days and hours that will be instituted by the city government on all offices involved in tax assessment and payments for the month of January 2013.

The expanded working days and hours for all QC revenue-generating offices will be from 8 a.m. and could extend beyond 5 p.m. on weekdays, and go on on Saturdays and Sundays.

This is to enable them to settle their tax obligations on time and avoid paying penalties for late payments.

The deadline for tax payments without penalty, as provided under the Local Government Code, is January 20.

The city government is introducing an easy tax payment and renewal process for business permits.

The simplified procedure involves cutting down by at least four steps the process of facilitating the renewal of business permits in QC in a bid to provide ease and convenience to city taxpayers.

In addition, is a new strategy to avoid long queues in the issuance of the ‘cedulas’ or the community tax certificates.

The city will start incorporating the amount of payment for the community tax in the business tax bill.

However, manual issuance of ‘cedulas’ still applies to individual taxpayers and walk-in taxpayers.

Meanwhile, all low-risk establishments, such as sari-sari stores and business establishments with gross sale below P500,000.00 except for partnerships and corporations, may also pay their taxes at the treasury departments sattelite branches located at Novaliches, La Loma, Cubao, Talipapa and Galas.

Eco art fest set at Conspiracy Garden

(Manila Standard Today), LGI/CLTC

An art exhibit and music fest fundraiser for Save Philippine Seas’ Pawikan Watchers program opens on Jan. 19 at the Conspiracy Garden Cafe, Quezon City.

EndDanger, which features mixed media artworks from the group Artists for Nature and performances from Itchyworms and Flying Ipis, calls attention to the growing problem of animal endangerment in the Philippines and encourages the community to get involved in conservation and protection efforts.

Although gifted with a rich and biologically diverse ecosystem, from lush forests to a vibrant marine life, our country’s natural resources have significantly dwindled over time. Animal species, are under increasing threat from habitat destruction, pollution and commercial exploitation. Many are now in the verge of extinction.

The artists and organizers behind EndDanger seek to raise funds for one of the Philippines’ most threatened species, the pawikan. Proceeds from the event’s ticket sales will go to the Pawikan Watchers training program, which Save Philippine Seas— an independent movement that fights abuse of our aquatic resources through legal discourse and social media—launched in cooperation with the Marine Wildlife Watch of the Philippines EndDanger is sponsored by Numa, Ministry of Mushrooms, Holy Carabao, and San Miguel Corporation, and is done in partnership with WhenInManila.com, Clean Up Philippines, Eco- Sys Foundation, Green Fins, Society for Sustainable Tourism and Development Inc., Sea News Network, and UP Green League.

Conspiracy Garden Café is located at 59 Visayas Avenue, Project 6, Quezon City.

For opening night tickets or more information, please contact Wendi Garcia at +639162742859 or <artistsfornature@gmail.com>,<www.facebook.com/artistsfornature> and < www.twitter.com/artists4nature> for updates.

Bus segregation improves travel time in EDSA -- MMDA

(PNA), LGI/CLTC

MANILA, Jan. 6 (PNA) -- Since the bus segregation scheme was implemented in December, the travel time along Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA), particularly from Magallanes to East Avenue in Quezon City has improve, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) said on Sunday.

MMDA Traffic Engineering Center (TEC) Director Noemi Recio said the agency has conducted a survey before the end of last year to find out if the new scheme touted to decongest EDSA and improve travel time, especially for passengers of public utility buses (PUB) is really effective.

“May ginawa tayo na before end of the year survey covering bus A for Alabang-bound, bus B for Baclaran-bound at bus C for all stop buses at inorasan natin ang takbo at nakita natin doon na may improvement talaga both sa north and south-bound portion,” she said.

Recio said prior to the enforcement of the new scheme, buses usually crawl along EDSA at a measly 16.82 kilometers per hour (kph) on average but that it improved to 25.26 kph for Alabang-bound buses, 22.39kph for Baclaran-bound buses, and 19.12 for bus C or all-stop buses.

Also covered by the survey was the travel time of private vehicles traveling from Roxas Boulevard and Monumento in Caloocan with Recio saying there was also a noticeable improvement from the previous 30kph to 33.89 kph.

The segregation scheme covers all the 3,100 city buses plying EDSA on a daily basis.

Aside from the city buses, another 7,368 provincial buses whose companies operate terminals in the metropolis also used the same thoroughfare though they are excluded in the scheme.

QC marks Tandang Sora’s 201st birthday Sunday

By Severino C. Samonte [(PNA), HBC/SCS/UTB]

MANILA, Jan. 5 ((PNA) -– Quezon City officials and residents will celebrate the 201st birth anniversary of the revolutionary heroine Melchora Aquino, better known as “Tandang Sora,” Sunday.

Center of the celebration is the Tandang Sora Shrine at the heroine’s birthplace in Sitio Banlat, Barangay Tandang Sora, Novaliches, Quezon City, where her remains were transferred Jan. 6, 2012 from the Himlayang Pilipino Memorial Park in neighboring Barangay Pasong Tamo.

Jacinto R. Francisco Jr., a great grandson of the heroine and caretaker of the shrine, told the Philippines News Agency that Quezon City Mayor Herbert Bautista and Vice Mayor Joy Belmonte will lead the flower-laying ceremonies before the start of the commemorative program at 4 p.m.

Francisco said the celebration will coincide with the annual observance of the Feast of the Three Kings and the fiesta of Barangay Tandang Sora.

The relocation of Tandang Sora’s remains to her birth site coincided with the celebration of the 2nd centennial of her birth last year.

Melchora Aquino was born on Jan. 6, 1812 in the then barrio of Banlat or Banilad of the former town of Novaliches.

Despite her advanced age of 84 years, when the revolution against the Spanish rule in the Philippines broke out in August 1896, she still gave her full support for the Katipuneros led by Andres Bonifacio.

When the Spanish authorities learned about her revolutionary activities, she was arrested in Barrio Pasong Putik, Novaliches and jailed at the Old Bilibid Prison in Manila. She was later exiled to Guam.

She was freed and returned to the Philippines during the American regime.

She died in March 1919 at the age of 107 and was buried at the Veterans’ Mausoleum at the Manila North Cemetery.

In 1971, on the occasion of her 169th birthday, her remains were exhumed from the North Cemetery and relocated to the then newly-opened Himlayang Pilipino Memorial Park which was adjacent to her birthplace.

Upon the completion of the Tandang Sora Shrine in Barangay Tandang Sora, the final transfer of her remains to the shrine was done by the Quezon City government and the National Historical Commission of the Philippines on her 200th birthday on Jan. 6, 2012.

In previous years until the early 1970s, Jan. 6 used to be declared by Malacanang as a special holiday in Quezon City to mark Tandang Sora Day.

However, the annual declaration was scrapped because of the existence of too many holidays in Quezon City such as the birth anniversary of the late Philippine Commonwealth President Manuel L. Quezon on Aug. 19, the Quezon City Foundation Day on Oct. 12, and the Cry of Pugad Lawin on Aug. 23.

Funeral Mass for Fr. Reuter Jan 5 at Ateneo chapel

(PNA), HBC/FGP/UTB

MANILA, Jan. 4 (PNA) -- A funeral Mass will be held for Jesuit missionary Fr. James Reuter Saturday at the Ateneo de Manila University’s Church of the Gesù in Loyola Heights, Quezon City.

The mass is scheduled at 8:30 am, before his interment at the Sacred Heart Novitiate Jesuit Cemetery in Novaliches.

Several Catholic prelates -- including Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle and Cubao Bishop Honesto Ongtioco -- are expected to attend the Mass.

However, Fr. Reggie Malicdem, Tagle’s secretary, said it is not clear if the Cardinal will preside over the funeral Mass.

“He will attend. But I’m not sure if he will be asked to preside over the Mass,” he said.

On Dec 31, Reuter died at the Our Lady of Peace Hospital in Parañaque. He was 96 years old.

It was in 1938 when Fr. Reuter first came to the country as a missionary -- a 22-year old Jesuit scholastic.

He studied theological studies at Georgetown University and spent a year at Fordham University in New York to study radio and television.

The Jesuit missionery was ordained a Jesuit priest at Woodstock, Maryland in 1946.

Two years after, he went back to the Philippines as a teacher in high school and college at the Ateneo de Naga.

For almost seven decades of priestly ministry, he received over 20 prestigious awards, citing his invaluable services to the Church and to the country in various fields especially in education, mass media, literature and performing arts.

In 1981, Pope John Paul II gave him a special award for his "outstanding service to the Catholic Church in the field of mass media” during his visit in the country.

He was also the recipient of the Ramon Magsaysay Awardee for Journalism, Literature and Creative Communication Arts in 1989.

Reuter was also honored with the rare and highly coveted Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice award, the highest papal award given to any individual in recognition of his/her outstanding and exemplary service to the Catholic Church and the Holy See.

QC eyes new infra projects

By Rio N. Araja

Quezon City is set to spend P1.2 billion in government projects in 2013, including the renovation and restoration of the Quezon City General Hospital on Seminary Road.

City engineer Joselito Cabungcal said the city allocated close to P2 billion in infrastructure expenditures in 2012 for school buildings, health centers, multipurpose halls, markets, roads, drainage and flood control system in various barangays of the city.

Of the P1,821,626,552.02 budget for infrastructure projects last year, 183 were already completed amounting to P656,524,621.47, he noted.

At least 77 projects, costing P649,913,742.50, are still ongoing while 47 projects, worth P506,944,754.66, were suspended due to problems over squatters and right of way, he added.

Four project, worth P8,243,434.29, were bidded out for 2012, but have not yet started construction, he said.

QC business taxes due

By Rio N. Araja

Quezon City Mayor Herbert Bautista urged taxpayers to be mindful of the January 20 deadline for the payment of business taxes and the March 31 deadline for payment of the real property tax so that the city can implement more development projects and programs.

The city was able to generate a surplus of P2 billion in 2012 with an estimated gross income of P12 billion, he noted.

Dr. Victor Endriga, city administrator, said he is confident that the city will be able to maintain its status as the country’s richest city.

Meanwhile, the head of the Liquor Licensing and Regulatory Board, Alberto Galarpe, said businesses that offer alcoholic drinks must get their permits on or before the January 20 deadline, or the city government will be forced to issue a closure order.

Those who will pay late will be fined 20 percent of the total amount of fees due, he warned.

Lobrequito leads QC wrestlers to overall championship

(PNA), HBC/EGA/UTB

MANILA, Jan. 1 (PNA) -- National team mainstay Alvin Lobreguito dominated his favorite event and led Quezon City wrestlers to the overall championship in the Wrestling Association of the Philippines 2012 Buno fourth quarter tournament.

The championship was held Dec. 14-16 at the New Era University Gym in Quezon City, but the results were released only Tuesday.

Lobreguito ruled the 55-kilogram category as the QCWT amassed a superior 415-point overall performance to emerge triumphant.

The Ifugao Wrestling Team came a far second with 253 points.

Teams from Baguio City and Taytay, Rizal were tied in third to fourth positions with identical 241 points.

A total 192 grapplers, a record high in any WAP national-level competitions, took part in the three-day tilt supported by the Philippine Sports Commission, according to association president Albert Balde.

Aside from Lobreguito, the other young discoveries in the tournament were gold medalists Joshua Gayuchano and Ruzzel Taguinay of Ifugao (Greco-Roman), 10-year-old Rexor Albario (freestyle) and 15-year-old Minalyn Foy-os of Baguio (women), a top contender for the qualifiers of the 2014 Youth Olympic Games in Nanjing, China.

Sharing the attention of the appreciative crowd were the head-turner women wrestlers of the New Era University Wrestling Team -- silver medalist Nikkita Suarez and bronze medalist Kiana Santos.

Meanwhile, WAP secretary general Karlo Sevilla announced that the hosting of the fourth-quarter nationals was awarded to the NEU as a gesture of appreciation to the support being accorded by the academic institution and to the Iglesia ni Cristo to the sport of wrestling.

Wrestling has been made one of the official sports events of the church’s annual national Unity Games beginning 2013.

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