Makati City News February 2012

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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.

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.

Banco Filipino contempt bid vs central bank execs fails

by AH/Sunnex


MANILA -- A Makati City court has dismissed the bid of the padlocked Banco Filipino Savings and Mortgage Bank to hold officials of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) for indirect contempt due to forum shopping.

In an order, Makati City Regional Trial Court (RTC) branch 143 Presiding Judge Rommel Baybay said Banco Filipino committed forum shopping when it filed a separate petition for the same charges against BSP Governor Amando Tetangco, BSP Deputy Governor Nestor Espenilla Jr. and General Counsel Juan De Zuniga Jr. before branch 66 of the Makati RTC.

"With the commencement of the two indirect contempt proceedings; one before branch 66 and the verified petition in this Court, arising from the same facts, transactions and issues, the Petitioner is clearly guilty of violating the rule against Forum Shopping," Baybay said in his order.

The bank filed the case against Tetangco and his subordinates before Baybay's branch last March 11, 2011, just four months after branch 66 Presiding Judge Joselito Villarosa issued a preliminary mandatory and preventive injunction.

In his ruling, Villarosa ordered the BSP and the Monetary Board to immediately implement Banco Filipino's business plan by releasing its P25 billion financial assistance package and other regulatory reliefs without delay.

But in their defense, the BSP officials through their counsel, John Balisnomo of the Villaraza Cruz Marcelo and Angangco law offices argued that Villarosa's ruling has already been nullified by the Court of Appeals' 13th Special Division order last October for lack of jurisdiction and grave abuse of discretion.

Baybay said it was this reason that he decided to dismiss the indirect contempt charges against the BSP officials.

"The manifestations filed by the respondents state that the Court of Appeals dismissed Civil Case No. 10-1042 on the ground of lack of jurisdiction. Accordingly, a judgment or decision rendered by a court without jurisdiction is void ab initio and thereby the supposed non-compliance with the assailed order cannot constitute defiance, much less can it possibly give rise to any liability for indirect contempt," he said.

BSP placed Banco Filipino under receivership on March 2011, saying the bank had to be closed because it was insolvent.

The saving banks contested the closure order before the Makati RTC.






CA affirms decision nullifying RTC order on Banco Filipino

by ABS-CBNnews.com


MANILA, Philippines - The Court of Appeals has affirmed its decision nullifying the Regional Trial Court of Makati City's order directing the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and the Monetary Board (MB) to release up to P25 billion in financial assistance, among others, to Banco Filipino Savings and Mortgage Bank.

In a minute resolution penned by Associate Justice Hakim Abdulwahid, the CA's Former Special Tenth Division maintained Banco Filipino did not raise new arguments in its motion for reconsideration that warrants the reversal of its July 28, 2011 ruling.

"We have carefully reviewed our decision vis-a-vis the instant motion and the Comment/Opposition filed by petitioners BSP and the MB, and we found that the issues raised therein and the arguments advanced in support thereof are mere rehash of those already considered and passed upon, and no new issues or substantial arguments have been presented to justify the reversal or modification of the assailed decision,” the CA said.

Associate Justices Noel Tijam and Ricardo Rosario concurred with the decision.

Banco Filipino filed a motion for reconsideration last October 3, but failed to convince the CA that the RTC has jurisdiction to hear the case.

In its July 28 decision, the CA ordered the dismissal of Civil Case No. 10-1042, which was filed by Banco Filipino against the BSP and the MB. This became the basis of Makati RTC Judge Joselito C. Villarosa's order the release of P25 billion financial assistance and other regulatory reliefs for the bank.

However, the appelate court said the RTC has no jurisdiction over the case filed by Banco Filipino assailing MB Resolution No. 1668.

The CA's Tenth Division made the ruling just 3 weeks after another division issued a decision declaring null and void the memorandum issued by BSP and MB placing Banco Filipino under receivership.

In the decision issued on January 27, the CA's Former Special Fourteenth Division directed the BSP to re-open the bank and provide financial assistance in the amount of not less than P25-billion "in order to ensure fast and immediate recovery of the bank from the ill-effects of the illegal closure.”

The BSP asid the Former Special Fourteenth Division should have not tackled the implementation of the business plan, since the CA's Tenth Division had already ruled on the matter.

"To repeat, the issue on Banco Filipino's supposed entitlement to a P25 billion financial assistance is precisely the issue in Civil Case No. 10-1042 before Branch 66 of the Regional Trial Court of Makati City Civil Case No. 10-1042 arose from a petition for certiorari and mandamus seeking to compel respondents BSP-MB to grant financial assistance to Banco Filipino under select terms and conditions contained in Monetary Board Resolution 1668," the BSP said.

Makati all set for Caracol today

by ABS-CBNnews.com


MANILA, Philippines -- It's all systems go for Makati City's annual Caracol festival, which unfolds today, February 26, at 4 p.m.

In Makati's version of the Mardi Gras, hundreds of students and residents are expected to perform colorful dances as they pay homage to Mother Nature.

"Our Caracol Festival this year promises to be more fun and exciting, spiced up by the combination of ethnic, classic and modern dance movements gracefully performed by gaily dressed students and residents," Makati Mayor Jejomar Erwin S. Binay said.

Binay and other city officials will lead a parade along Paseo de Roxas Avenue that will end at the corner of Ayala and Makati Avenues where the battle of street performers will be staged. Participants will convene at the Ayala Triangle Gardens at 3:30 p.m. today for the parade.

Binay said festival goers are also encouraged to wear body paints, masks and other costumes depicting flowers, birds, fruits, animals and endangered species, and join in the parade and merrymaking.

Caracol, the Spanish term for snail, refers to the "shell" that people carry around as a shield against life's harsh realities, so the celebration calls for people to forget their troubles and delight in the moment, the mayor explained.

Aside from performances by public school students and residents from the first and second districts, Ayala Land Inc. will also present a special intermission featuring the La Salle Pep Squad, which will promote its 2012 slogan, "Make it happen, make it Makati!"

Competing dance groups from the elementary, secondary and tertiary levels will be dressed in ingeniously designed costumes that portray various forms of flora and fauna, including species facing extinction due to the environmental degradation.

Celebrated every last Sunday of February, Caracol was conceptualized in 1986 and ushered in the Fiesta Islands Program of the Department of Tourism in 1989. Since then, the festival has been awaited by city residents and visitors alike, including foreign tourists.

Portions of Ayala, Makati Ave. closed to traffic from Feb. 25 to 26

by pia.gov.ph


MAKATI CITY, Feb. 25 (PIA) -- Traffic will be rerouted at the Makati Central Business District (CBD) starting 10:00 p.m. of February 25, Saturday, to make way for this year’s Caracol Festival, the official festival of Makati City, an advisory from the local government said.

It said this year's festival will be held at the corner of Ayala and Makati Avenues near the Gabriela Silang statue.

Makati Department of Public Safety (DPS) Director Hermenegildo San Miguel said that the westbound direction of Ayala Avenue, from Makati Avenue to Paseo de Roxas, and the southbound direction of Makati Avenue, from Paseo de Roxas to Ayala Avenue, will be closed to traffic from 10:00PM Saturday until around 10:00 p.m. on Sunday after the activity has ended.

San Miguel said work crews from the Engineering Department will start the construction of the main stage and bleachers at the corner of Makati and Ayala Avenues at 10pm onwards.

Following are the alternate routes for motorists on February 25, Saturday: All westbound vehicles along Ayala Avenue going towards the direction of Gil Puyat Avenue shall turn right at Makati Avenue, left at Paseo de Roxas and right at Ayala Avenue, while vehicles along Makati Avenue and Paseo de Roxas going towards Arnaiz Avenue, Ayala Center or EDSA/McKinley Road shall take Paseo de Roxas, then turn left at Ayala Avenue towards their destination.

The DPS will likewise close the northbound direction of Paseo de Roxas from Ayala Avenue to Makati Avenue from 1:00PM until 10:00PM on Sunday, February 26. Vehicles along Paseo de Roxas from Greenbelt/Legaspi Village area going towards the direction of Makati Avenue or Gil Puyat Avenue shall turn right at Ayala Avenue then left at Makati Avenue toward their destination.

Motorists should expect heavy traffic and are advised to take alternate routes. (ICRD/RJB/JCP-PIA NCR)

Tourism eyed as answer to unemployment woes

by LBG, GMA News


Tourism could hold the key to the Aquino administration's efforts to lick unemployment and poverty, Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez Jr. said Thursday.

Jimenez said President Benigno Aquino III wants tourism to be "THE" major economic driver for the country.

"(O)ur President dreams big dreams. And one of his dreams is that tourism will be THE major economic driver to help address unemployment and poverty," he said in a speech before the Consular Corps of the Philippines in Makati City.

Jimenez's claim came shortly after pollster Social Weather Stations released Thursday the results of its Dec. 3-7 survey indicating unemployment had risen to 24 percent.

The SWS survey indicated the 24-percent increase means some 9.7 million Filipinos are without jobs.

Earlier, the Philippines adopted an aggressive tack in attracting tourists with the unveiling of the Department of Tourism's new slogan: "It's More Fun in the Philippines."

The slogan has gained creative adaptations, he noted. As of last count, he said over 11,000 versions of the poster from which the DOT started with just three.

On the other hand, Jimenez said a big chunk of government resources and major infrastructure projects are now being oriented towards tourism.

"For the first time in the history of the Republic, the bulk of this year’s infrastructure project is geared towards improving tourism roads, airports, and seaports. At no time in the history of this country will that much money be spent on tourism infrastructure as now," he noted.

Also, he said the Department of Public Works and Highways has earmarked P8.1 billion for the construction of access roads to airports.

He added the Department of Transportation and Communications will allot P12 billion for the development of new international airports.

"I will not say the name of the airports now because every time we announce final plans for an airport, the cost of the land goes up," he said.

Some of the projects may extend beyond the term of the Aquino administration, he hinted.

Policy bottlenecks

Jimenez said the national government is working to address policy bottlenecks that run counter to tourism’s progress.

He said these include matters pertaining to the foreign airlines’ economic viability, such as the Common Carriers’ Tax.

Also affecting the business of foreign carriers are the Customs, Immigration, and Quarantine issues (or CIQ), he said.

Also, Jimenez said the government is "holding nothing sacred" in easing the entry of tourists into the Philippines.

"Easing entry formalities is also imperative in the face of change," he said.

He said the DOT is contemplating everything from a single ASEAN visa, which the Philippines is now a very major proponent of.

With a single ASEAN visa, he said one "can walk into a Singaporean Embassy in France and get a visa to all ASEAN countries, including the Philippines."

Also, he said Executive Order no. 29 or the “Open Skies Policy” is poised to fully serve its purpose of increasing seat capacities to other international airports other than Manila.

"I think, if there was any doubt before, the approval of all the plans to build the international gateways of the Philippines is proof-positive that the Open Skies policy is geared to stay," he said.

Getting bigger share of 1B tourists

Jimenez said they expect one billion tourists to travel this year, and called for help to increase the Philippines' share.

Last year, the Philippines hit a record high of 3.9 million arrivals, 4.6 percent more than its target of 3.7 million.

He said that was the first time this has ever happened in the history of tourism in this country.

Jimenez said the Philippines wants at least one percent or 10 million tourists satisfied.

"You come to the Philippines because it’s more fun in the Philippines. Because the Filipino makes it his personal responsibility to make sure you’re okay. That is uniquely Filipino. You invest in the Philippines because the Filipino worker is the most established business solutions and workforces on earth. We are the established business solutions in the maritime industry," he said.

On the other hand, he said very few Filipinos know that the Philippines is now the fourth largest shipbuilding country in the world and 27 percent of all personnel in the maritime industry are Filipino.

"We are the world’s established business solution in the hotel, restaurant, and hospitality business. We are the world’s established business solution and workers in the BPO industry. We are considered the most established business solution in terms of workers for the healthcare industry. And so on and so forth," he said.

"So, when you are going to invest in a country, you have to ask yourself not where to invest but whom to work with. If every investor around the world talks about whom to work with, the Philippines has the fighting shot at the title," he added.

Environmental laws

Jimenez noted not all may get to see immediately some Philippine tourist attractions due to environmental laws.

He cited the Puerto Princesa Underground Rivr in Palawan, one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature.

"Fortunately or unfortunately, environmental laws are on. To preserve its quality, visits to the Underground River are limited to only 700 visitors a day. So book ahead because if you go there without a booking, you won’t see the Underground River," he said.

Jimenez voiced hopes the Department of Foreign Affairs revives the involvement of the DOT in the pre-departure orientation for would-be postees to foreign missions.

He also said the DFA may want to invite the DOT to give inputs to update the Economic Diplomacy Manual in light of Republic Act 9593, or the Tourism Act of 2009.

He also sought the strong support of the Consular Corps, all 193 members, to help stimulate growth in the Philippines' tourist markets, develop new ones, as well as attract investments.

"To our foreign diplomats, we would appreciate your assistance as well in facilitating our bilateral tourism cooperation and air service agreements," he added.

'Japan Night' held to attract more tourists

by ABS-CBNnews.com


MANILA, Philippines - An event featuring the sights, sounds and tastes of Japan was recently held in Makati City in a bid to attract more visitors to the East Asian country, which was hit by a deadly earthquake and tsunami last year.

"Japan Night," organized by the Embassy of Japan in cooperation with Travelife Magazine, was held on February 16 at the Dusit Thani Hotel.

The event featured a live performance of two maiko (young geisha) from the Yamagata Prefecture, live koto (Japanese harp) music, a kimono-wearing demonstration, photos of Japanese traditional crafts, tourist spots and festivals, and videos of Japanese culture and scenery.

Guests were also treated to a Japanese degustation meal which included wagyu, Japan's famous beef. Koshu, a Japanese wine, was also served for the ceremonial toast.

"[Japan Night is] just a preview of what Japan has to offer, and more discoveries lie ahead," Ambassador Toshinao Urabe said as he welcomed guests to the event, which was also attended by Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez, former President Fidel V. Ramos, and senators Edgardo Angara and Franklin Drilon, among others.

Last year, it was reported that the Japanese government is planning to give away 10,000 free round-trip tickets to foreigners in an attempt to boost its tourism industry.

The Japanese government eventually reacted to the reports, saying that the plan is still subject to budgetary approval.

Raps recommended vs driver in hit-and-run incident in Makati City

by Miko Morelos


MANILA, Philippines—The Makati City prosecutor’s office has recommended the filing of charges against the motorist who allegedly figured in a hit-and-run incident that killed a former barangay (village) chairman from Lemery, Batangas, on Ayala Avenue recently. Assistant City Prosecutor Hannah Arriola cited an eyewitness account in charging Rommel Barbers, 36, with reckless imprudence resulting in homicide over the death of Alexander Luistro. The incident was witnessed by Santiago Gacos, a security guard who was then boarding a jeepney but had the presence of mind to take down the plate number of Barbers’ ’92 Toyota Corolla (TAZ-379) after it hit Luistro early morning of February 8. Arriola recommended a P40,000 bail for Barbers, a resident of Barangay Pio del Pilar, Makati.

Makati gov't gives away 523 free land titles

by Mike Frialde


MANILA, Philippines - The Makati City government will award tomorrow 523 free land titles to qualified city residents as part of its “Handog Titulo” program.

Makati Mayor Jejomar Erwin Binay, together with Vice President and Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC) Chairman Jejomar Binay will lead the distribution of free patents or titles to qualified residential land owners of the city.

The “Handog Titulo” program, is a joint project of the Makati city government, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), and the Office of the Vice President.

Mayor Binay said the 523 land titles cover an aggregate area of 53,630.22 square meters in eight barangays in the city’s two districts.

Mayor Binay said the 523 land titles will be distributed to the following barangays: Pembo (299 recipients); East Rembo (37 recipients); West Rembo, (70); Cembo, (38); Pitogo, (14); South Cembo, (31); Comembo (33); and Pio del Pilar (1).

According to Mayor Binay, the distribution of the free land titles is based on Republic Act 10023, or the “Residential Free Patent Act” promulgated last March 9, 2010.

RA 10023 authorizes administrative issuance of free patents on residential lands to every qualified Filipino with no land title. This means that claimants do not need to go through lengthy, tedious, and financially demanding court process to gain legal rights on the residential land that the claimants have been occupying and cultivating for a minimum of 10 years.

“This law is about formalizing land ownership of many residential lot owners and homeowners who only have tax declarations as proof of ownership. This distribution of titles is then aimed to secure the ownership of the beneficiaries over the land they are occupying,” Mayor Binay said.

Binay said the beneficiaries of the “Handog Titulo” Program will not only have security and peace of mind over their lands, as they may also use their titles as collaterals for loans to be used as business capital.

Binay added that RA 10023 was supported by the Chamber of Thrift Banks and the Rural Bankers Association as they have been complaining about a lack of supply of titles as collateral for lending, which limits their ability to grant loans and make the rural banking industry more viable.

249 bikers nabbed for EDSA blue lane violations

by Mike Frialde


MANILA, Philippines – Traffic enforcers of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) nabbed 249 motorcyclists for not using the designated “blue lanes” for motorcycles along EDSA.

Today was the first day of the actual implementation of the traffic scheme following a one-week dry-run.

As of 1 pm today, traffic enforcers nabbed and issued traffic violation tickets to 82 motorcyclists at Gen. Simon St. in Caloocan City, 14 in Quezon Avenue to Timog Avenue, 42 in White Plains, 68 in Orense St. near the MMDA building in Makati, and 43 at Roxas Boulevard.

The MMDA earlier said not a single motorcycle-related accident happened along the 24-kilometer stretch of EDSA since the implementation of the “blue lanes” or designated motorcycle lanes last Tuesday.

MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino said the zero accident record proved the effectiveness of the scheme in promoting road safety along EDSA.

“There has been a smooth implementation of the EDSA blue lane since Tuesday. Hopefully it will stay this way. This also shows that our riders and motorists are aware of the program,” Tolentino said in a statement.

Aside from motorcyclists who do not use the “blue lanes” MMDA traffic enforcers will also apprehend motorcyclists who ride without helmets and those who will be using mobile phones while on the road. Traffic enforcers will also be doubly hard on drivers of overloaded motorcycles.

Tolentino also said traffic enforcers will also be apprehending motorcyclists who will not be turning their headlights on during daytime.

“We will also not tolerate overloading. Based on Land Transportation Office regulations, a motorcycle should only have one passenger and a back seater. We will also be implementing the rule where motorcycle headlights should be on even during daylight,” Tolentino said in a statement.

2 hurt in construction accident in Makati

by Mike Frialde


MANILA, Philippines - Two construction workers were injured after chunks of a wall they had been tearing down fell on them at a construction site in Barangay San Antonio, Makati City yesterday. A report reaching the Makati City police said Rizal Gagar and Rodel Dominio were pinned under the debris at the construction site along St. Paul Street at around 10:45 a.m. Acting city police chief Superintendent Jaime Santos said the two workers were removed from the rubble and brought to the Ospital ng Makati for treatment. They were later discharged, he said. According to Santos, Mayor Jejomar Erwin Binay has ordered the construction site closed pending an investigation by the city engineer’s office.

2 hurt as wall collapses in Makati construction site

by Nathaniel R. Melican

Philippine Daily Inquirer


MANILA, Philippines – Two construction workers were injured when a section of a wall they were tearing down at a construction site collapsed Saturday morning, the authorities said. Initial information from the Makati Fire Department showed that the incident happened at around 10:20 a.m. at a construction site on St. Paul Road in San Antonio Village, Makati City. The two workers were hurt when a large slab of concrete from a wall being demolished fell on them. Both of the workers were pinned under the concrete but have since been removed by members of Makati Rescue and rushed to a hospital.

MMDA's 'green tank' riders vs erring motorcyclists on EDSA

by Mike Frialde


MANILA, Philippines - The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) will dispatch on Monday bike-riding personnel to go after motorcycle riders who will refuse to use the designated "blue lanes" along the Epifanio delos Santos Avenue (EDSA).

The MMDA's "dry run" ion theuse of the designated motorcycle lane along EDSA ends on Monday. On the same day, traffic enforcers will start issuing traffic violation tickets on erring motorcycle riders.

MMDA Traffic Discipline Office head Yves Gonzalez said erring motorcyclists will be chased along EDSA by the agency’s group of bike riders, which will be called the "green tank" unit.

"Green tank" because the gas tanks of the MMDA enforcers' motorcycles are painted green.

Gonzalez said the unit will not only go after motorcyclists who will not use the designated motorcycle lane, but will also go after and issue violation tickets to motorcyclists who will be caught using mobile phones, not wearing helmets, those who are wearing slippers and those who will be driving with more than one passenger.

The “green tank” enforcers will also be chasing and apprehending motorcyclists onboard motorcycles with defective headlights and signal lights and those without license plates. Erring motorcyclists will be fined P500 for each offense committed.

Intoxicated motorcyclists who will be apprehended by the MMDA’s enforcers, meanwhile, risk payment of a P2,000 fine, Gonzalez said.


Gonzalez added that the motorcycle-riding enforcers would also chase and apprehend buses who will be caught driving on the designated motorcycle lane.

Under the regulations covering the use of the “blue lanes,” private vehicles may use the “blue lanes” as these are not exclusive to motorcycles. However, public utility vehicles, especially buses, are prohibited on these lanes. Drivers of buses who will be caught using the “blue lanes” will be fined P500.

Gonzalez is confident that majority of the Metro’s motorcyclists who are using EDSA will comply with the new highway regulation by Monday.

As of noon today, the MMDA reported apprehending only 133 erring motorcyclists.

Of the number, five were apprehended near Orense Street near the MMDA’s office in Makati City, 20 at White Plains, 16 at Timog Avenue, 48 at Roxas Boulevard, and 44 at General Simon Street in Caloocan City.


Last Tuesday, the first day of the “dry-run”, MMDA traffic enforcers apprehended 1,403 motorcyclists.

According to the MMDA, motorcyclists apprehended during the “dry-run” period are made to take a 15-minute roadside safety lecture handled by expert motorcycle riders.

Gonzalez said the seminars are done on the roadside at designated areas along EDSA such as near Roxas Boulevard, Orense Street, White Plains Avenue, Timog Avenue, and Quezon Avenue.

After the apprehended motorcyclists have completed the 15-minute seminar, MMDA personnel will paste heart-shaped stickers bearing the MMDA logo and the words “Certified Motorcycle Rider” and “Disiplinado Ako” on the windshields or gas tanks of the motorcycles.

The MMDA designated EDSA’s fourth lane from the right sidewalk as the motorcycle lane.

Of EDSA’s five lanes (in one direction), the fourth lane from the sidewalk is the safest lane for motorcycles to use, based on an MMDA study. The first two lanes of EDSA (going in one direction) from the sidewalk are for use by public utility vehicles and trucks with the third and fifth (“fast lane”) lanes for private vehicles.


Data from the MMDA’s Road Safety Unit also showed that motorcycles accounted for the highest accident rate with 329 incidents followed by cars with 201 in just the first six months of 2010.


MMDA statistics showed that on the daily average, at least 6,559 motorcycles travel along EDSA’s northbound lane and at least 5,173 travel along the southbound lane.

University of Makati now accepting incoming freshmen

by pia.gov.ph


MAKATI CITY, Feb. 16 (PIA) -- The city-run University of Makati (UMak) is now accepting incoming freshmen for academic year 2012-2013, according to a statement posted on the local government website.

University president Tomas Lopez said the registration period will run until April. Applicants are advised to proceed to the Testing and Admission Center located at the ground floor, Building III of UMak.

Lopez also said the schedule for the UMak Admission Test, which will determine the courses appropriate to the abilities and preferences of individual students, will be given upon registration.

According to Prof. Lucia Dela Cruz, head of Testing and Admission Center, freshmen applicants need to bring the following: Form 137/138; Certificate of good moral character; Birth Certificate from NSO; two 1 1/2x 1 1/2 ID pictures; Voter’s ID/Certificate. Incomplete requirements will not be processed.

Dela Cruz also gave important reminders to applicants especially for non-Makati residents who must have a high school average of 85 per cent to qualify for the admission test. As for students who did not immediately enroll after graduation from high school, he or she must present a certification that the Form 137-A has not yet been sent to any college/university.

Makati resident applicants, on the other hand, are required to submit photocopy of their parent’s voter’s ID/certificate or, if they are 18 years old and above, they should present their own voter’s ID/certificate.

For transferees and second coursers, the following requirements are needed: General Weighted Average of 85 percent with no failing grades, Transcript of Records, Honorable Dismissal, Birth Certificate, Two 1 ½ x 1 ½ ID pictures, and voter’s ID/Certificate for Makati residents.

Applicants will be charged a registration fee of P20 and P30 as testing fee. For the nursing course program, the fee is P350.

For interested applicants, admission is ongoing from 8am to 5pm, Monday to Saturday, and inquiries can be made through telephone numbers 881-1571 (direct line) or 883-1860 local 240. Applicants are advised to proceed to Building II, Room 303 or 305 for registration and entrance exam schedule.

Meanwhile, the university’s College of Nursing opened last school year its new 4-year program - Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Technology also known as RadTech.

According to Lopez, UMak is one of the few universities in the country offering RadTech as a bachelor degree and at present the opportunities of RadTech are immense not only in the USA and Europe but also in Middle Eastern countries where Filipinos are highly regarded.

Randy Concepcion, dean of the College of Nursing, said they also offer full scholarship program for RadTech as the healthcare industry is in need of professionals who are not only engaged in nursing and medical work but also in diagnostics and imaging.

The UMak College of Nursing is a joint venture of the city-owned university and the Systems Technology Institute (STI) Education Services Group.

Lopez said except for the College of Nursing, students who are bonafide Makati residents will pay a tuition fee of only P1,000 per semester aside from other miscellaneous fees. Non-Makati residents are charged P3,000 as tuition.

The university holds the distinction of being the first city-owned university to implement a dual training system. The system allow students hands-on training in the industry partnered by UMak. (ICRD/RJB/JCP-PIA NCR)

CHED orders Makati business school closed

by ABS-CBNnews.com


MANILA, Philippines – The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) has ordered the closure of the International Academy of Management and Economics (IAME) in Makati City.

CHED, in a statement, said it has denied the appeal filed by IAME in relation to the Phase-Out Order.

CHED said IAME can no longer admit any new students effective Academic Year (AY) 2011-2012 due to the “gross and serious violations and continuous defiance, and non-compliance” to CHED’s policies in the following courses:

· Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) · Master in Business Administration (MBA) · Doctor of Philosophy in Management (Ph.D. in Mgt.) However, CHED noted that IAME “shall effect the transfer of all its existing students to other higher-education institutions (HEIs) with recognized programs by the end of AY 2011-2012.”

IAME students should also be allowed to complete their enrolled courses this academic year.

Students who will satisfactorily complete all the academic requirements of their respective courses by the end of AY 2011-2012 may also be given their graduate and undergraduate degrees by the IAME, according to CHED.

CHED noted, however, that IAME is no longer allowed to offer any extension classes with any HEI.

Free salon, spa services for senior citizens today in Makati

by pia.gov.ph


MAKATI CITY, Feb. 14 (PIA) -- The city government, through the Makati Social Welfare Department (MSWD), will launch today, Valentine’s Day, its first mobile beauty parlor services for its senior citizens in barangays Kasilawan and Carmona.

A statement posted on its website (www.makati.gov.ph) said that the free salon and spa services for seniors was inspired by the enthusiastic response by the elderly to a similar program slated in July 2011.

MSWD chief and acting city administrator Marjorie A. De Veyra said the free services will start serving the seniors at 9:00 a.m. in said barangays. Meanwhile, the Makati Mobile Salon will stay for a minimum of three days in each barangay before going on to the next barangay.

De Veyra said they envision putting up one beauty and wellness center in each of the city’s 33 barangays to cater to senior residents, numbering over 51,000.

“We are launching this new service in response to strong clamor from our elderly residents who have difficulty going to the two special salons we have set up for them in Barangay Tejeros, District I, and Barangay Comembo in District II,” De Veyra said.

MSWD had simultaneously opened the SM Felicidad Sy Wellness Center for the Elderly in Barangay Tejeros and the Makati Senior Citizen’s Beauty Salon and Spa in Comembo Multi-Purpose Hall last July, offering free beauty care and relaxation services like manicure & pedicure, foot spa, haircut and hair dye/color, and massage therapy to the city’s senior citizens.

For his part, Makati Mayor Jejomar Erwin S. Binay congratulated De Veyra and the MSWD personnel for “another successful innovation that has delighted our senioritos and senioritas in Makati.”

The mayor also acknowledged the cooperation of the barangay officials in the areas where the salon and spa facilities are located. He urged the officials of the other barangays to support the MSWD mobile beauty services team that will be going around the city starting today.

According to MSWD, the wellness center in Brgy. Tejeros serves an average of eight to 10 female elderly citizens daily availing of manicure/pedicure and haircut/hair styling, while about five male seniors go there for massage and haircut daily. In Brgy. Comembo, however, the turnout has been lower owing to accessibility problems, but the social workers have been coordinating with barangay officials for the provision of transport assistance to their clients.

The seniors’ salon is manned by MSWD livelihood trainees in beauty care and massage therapy program. It is open Mondays to Thursdays, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. and on Fridays from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. to give pampering services to the elderly residents. (ICRD/RJB/JCP-PIA NCR)

Police boost Valentine's Day security in Makati City

by Mike Frialde


MAKATI CITY, Philippines – The Makati City Police will beef-up its street patrols starting Tuesday as they expect the city’s commercial district to be filled with people celebrating Valentine’s Day.

Acting Makati City Police chief Jaime Santos said they already talked with the security managers of hotels and malls on the intensified patrol operations at the central business district and commercial center.

Santos added that the Makati Police will also intensify foot patrols at the city’s residential areas.

To beef-up police presence, Santos said two new detachments have been set-up in Barangay Rizal and Barangay Cembo.

“Our pre-deployment zones are now more accessible to the central business district and other nearby areas,” he said.

Meanwhile, Makati policemen will also be distributing red roses and anti-crime leaflets to commuters during today’s rush hour.

Santos said policemen will be handing out the roses and leaflets at the various bus loading points along Ayala Avenue and Buendia Avenue and also at the various Metro Rail Transit (MRT) stations of the city.

Makati raises monthly stipend of college scholars

by Philippine News Agency


MANILA, Philippines -- Starting next school year, 2012-2013, Makati scholars enrolled at the University of the Philippines (UP) and Philippine Normal University (PNU) will be receiving a monthly stipend of P4,000 after the City Council approved the P3.9-million budget appropriation through City Ordinance No. 2012-001.

According to Makati Mayor Jejomar Erwin S. Binay that they have increased the monthly stipend of the scholars by P1,000 to help them cope with the high cost of living. Under its college scholarship program, the city government grants full scholarship at the said universities to economically disadvantaged but deserving high school graduates. This covers their tuition, book allowance, and monthly stipend, which has been increased from the current P3,000.

“We have decided to raise the scholars’ allowance in anticipation of an increase in the prices of commodities and transportation, in view of the continuous oil price hike and other local and global factors affecting the cost of living,” Binay said.

Recently, the mayor hailed the first batch of graduates under the city’s scholarship program in UP, which included a magna cum laude and three cum laude graduates.

The scholarship program for UP and PNU students was launched in 2005 through City Ordinance No. 2005-067 with the aim of fully developing the potential of qualified graduates of Makati’s public high schools.

Under the program, the city government reimburses the expenses for the scholars’ tuition and provides for the book allowance and monthly stipends of the scholars per semester.

To qualify, an applicant must be a resident of Makati, with a gross annual family income not exceeding P250,000; must not be a grantee of scholarships or benefits from other individuals or agencies; and must be a bona fide student currently enrolled at UP or PNU.

The scholarship is renewable every semester until the recipient has finished his or her degree or course, provided he or she meets the following conditions: must have obtained an average grade of 85 percent or 2.0 (or its equivalent) or better for a load of at least 15 units with no failing grade, and must not shift to another course or go on leave of absence without prior approval of the Office of the Mayor.

90,000 Makati students join citywide earthquake drill

by Jerome Carlo R. Paunan


MAKATI CITY, Feb. 11 (PIA) -- An estimated 90,000 students, faculty and staff took part in simultaneous earthquake drills ordered by Mayor Jejomar Erwin S. Binay Jr. in all public schools in the city.

The drill was conducted by Dep-Ed Makati, in coordination with the Makati Disaster Risk Reduction and Management City Council (MDRRMC), in 28 elementary and 10 high schools.

Binay had directed the DepEd-Makati officials to prioritize the conduct of preparedness drills for students, faculty and other school personnel in case of an earthquake and other emergencies.

“We need to step up our capability-building efforts to lessen the damage to lives and properties in the event of an earthquake,” Binay said.

The mayor noted earlier projections of the devastating impact on Metro Manila of an earthquake with a magnitude of 7 or higher, after the 6.9-magnitude earthquake that hit the Visayas region recently again raised fears of a major temblor hitting the metropolis.

Lamberto Cruz, DepEd DRRMC Coordinator, said two drills were conducted, the first at 9 am for morning shift classes and the second at 3 pm for afternoon shift classes. Private schools in Makati were directed to draw up their own drill schedules.

DepEd Makati has been conducting regular bi-monthly preparedness drills, which include not only earthquake but also fire and bomb threat drills upon the directive of Mayor Binay, who also acts as MDRRMC chairman.

Cruz added that school disaster coordinators are required to submit a report two days after the actual conduct of the earthquake drill, which will include information on total enrolment, actual participation during the drill and a short narrative evaluation of the drill.

Meanwhile, the city’s Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (BDRRMC) continues to conduct training workshop on disaster preparedness and emergency response for officials and first responders, in response to the mayor’s call for their active participation in the intensified disaster risk reduction program of the city government.

Last year, Binay ordered an inspection of all public buildings and infrastructure in the city to determine their structural soundness following the devastating 8.9 magnitude earthquake and tsunami that hit Japan.

“There is really an urgent need for all sectors in Makati to step up disaster mitigation efforts and intensify public awareness on how to properly act to ascertain their safety in case of a similar emergency,” Binay said.

At present, there are 2,466 buildings located in the city. (ICRD/RJB/JCP-PIANCR)






Makati schools hold earthquake drills

by Report from Zen Hernandez, ABS-CBN News


MANILA, Philippines – The city government of Makati conducted earthquake drills in public schools across the city on Friday, four days after a 6.9-magnitude earthquake hit Negros Oriental.

Students were made to get out of their classrooms and proceed to identified evacuation areas, such as school quadrangles and open spaces.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) advised students and teachers to take the drills seriously for their own safety because it will benefit them in the event of a strong earthquake hitting Metro Manila.

The NDRRMC said it will require schools to conduct earthquake drills quarterly and will also call for a nationwide drill in March.

The earthquake that jolted the Negros-Cebu region left at least 39 people dead with 66 still missing.

Binay sends K-9 teams, relief goods to quake-stricken areas

by Tina G. Santos

Philippine Daily Inquirer


MANILA, Philippines—Vice President Jejomar Binay on Thursday said he will dispatch K-9 units to Guihulngan City in Negros Oriental to assist in search and rescue operations there following Monday’s 6.9-magnitude earthquake that struck Central and Western Visayas. Binay said the two K-9 teams are composed of six extrication experts, two detection dogs and four handlers from the Philippine Search and Rescue Foundation and Makati K9/Rescue Unit The teams are equipped with a search camera and portable hydraulic equipment, said Binay, a former longtime mayor of Makati City. He said the team had participated in retrieval operations in other calamity-hit areas such as Guinsaugon, Leyte, where a landslide struck in 2006. “They are set to leave for Dumaguete on Thursday via C-130 aircraft provided by the Philippine Army and are expected to help in the retrieval operations in Barangay Planas, Guihulngan City,” the Vice President said. Relief goods are also en route to Negros Oriental, said Binay. To date, the Office of the Vice President has sent 292 boxes of water each to the provincial government of Negros Oriental and the local government of Guihulngan. Fifty sacks of rice were also distributed in Guihulngan and 15 sacks were distributed in Jimalalud. The Vice President on Tuesday flew to Negros Oriental to extend his condolences to the victims of Monday’s earthquake and assess the damage to the province.

BIR Launches P1.003-T Tax Campaign

by JUN RAMIREZ


MANILA, Philippines — The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) formally opens Thursday its 2012 tax campaign to raise more than P1 trillion this year.

Top government officials, led by Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima and Revenue Commission Kim S. Jacinto-Henares, will attend the launching ceremonies at the Trinoma Mall in Quezon City this morning and at the Makati Sports Complex in Makati City this afternoon.

Boxing great Manny Pacquiao and other celebrities have been invited to attend the ceremonies to develop tax awareness among the tax-paying public.

Fiscal authorities fixed the BIR's collection goal for the year at P1.003 trillion, roughly 13 percent or P126 billion higher than the P940-billion goal last year.

The results of last year's tax drive have not yet been released.

The BIR had earlier come out with the tax collection slogan, "I Love the Philippines, I Pay Taxes" which is also aimed at heightening tax consciousness for the taxpayers to comply with one of their obligations to the government -- paying taxes.

Henares urged taxpayers to be more patriotic, declaring: "We have only one country and we must love it by paying correct taxes."

The affair is sponsored by the Quezon City Revenue Region, headed by Director Jonas DP Amora, and Makati Revenue Regional Director Nestor S. Valeroso.

The Quezon City revenue region is composed of the entire Quezon City and nearby cities and towns like Mandaluyong, San Juan, Marikina, and the towns and cities of Rizal province.

Makati has nine revenue district offices including those in Pasay, Parañaque, Las Piñas, Taguig and Muntinlupa.

Makati raises monthly stipend of college scholars

by pia.gov.ph


MAKATI CITY, Feb. 7 (PIA) -- Starting next school year, 2012-2013, Makati scholars enrolled at the University of the Philippines (UP) and Philippine Normal University (PNU) will be receiving a monthly stipend of P4,000 after the City Council approved the P3.9-million budget appropriation through City Ordinance No. 2012-001.

Under its college scholarship program, the city government grants full scholarship at the said universities to economically disadvantaged but deserving high school graduates. This covers their tuition, book allowance, and monthly stipend, which has been increased from the current P3,000.

Makati Mayor Jejomar Erwin S. Binay said they have increased the monthly stipend of the scholars by P1,000 to help them cope with the high cost of living.

“We have decided to raise the scholars’ allowance in anticipation of an increase in the prices of commodities and transportation, in view of the continuous oil price hike and other local and global factors affecting the cost of living,” Binay said.

Recently, the mayor hailed the first batch of graduates under the city’s scholarship program in UP, which included a magna cum laude and three cum laude graduates.

The scholarship program for UP and PNU students was launched in 2005 through City Ordinance No. 2005-067 with the aim of fully developing the potential of qualified graduates of Makati’s public high schools.

Under the program, the city government reimburses the expenses for the scholars’ tuition and provides for the book allowance and monthly stipends of the scholars per semester.

To qualify, an applicant must be a resident of Makati, with a gross annual family income not exceeding P250,000; must not be a grantee of scholarships or benefits from other individuals or agencies; and must be a bona fide student currently enrolled at UP or PNU.

The scholarship is renewable every semester until the recipient has finished his or her degree or course, provided he or she meets the following conditions: must have obtained an average grade of 85 percent or 2.0 (or its equivalent) or better for a load of at least 15 units with no failing grade, and must not shift to another course or go on leave of absence without prior approval of the Office of the Mayor. (ICRD/RJB/JCP-PIA NCR)

Makati allots P2B for education programs

by Alexander Villafania


MAKATI CITY, METRO MANILA – As part of its programs to improve its education sector, the local government of Makati City is putting in P2.19 billion for pre-school all the way to tertiary level.

Of this amount, P1.8 billion would be allocated to pre-school to high school education; P377 million will go to textbooks, school supplies, bags, and uniforms. Another P14 million will be used to purchase vocational and science-related equipment and pre-school instructional materials.

The city maintains 28 public elementary schools and ten public high schools. The remaining P300,000 from the budget will be used to maintain the government-run University of Makati (UMAK).

The goal of the budget is to ensure that the beneficiary schools will be able to accommodate the influx of enrollees for school year 2012 to 2013.

In a statement, Makati City Mayor Jejomar Erwin Binay said some amount would be allocated for travel expenses of students attending local and international academic events. These will include competitions, research programs, and student exchanges.

In addition, Makati City will be opening several new school facilities to accommodate the expected increase in student enrollment for the coming years.

Among the new facilities are four-storey school buildings for Fort Bonifacio Elementary School, Pembo Elementary School, Fort Bonifacio High School, and Pio del Pilar High School.

A new 10-storey building will also be opened at the Makati Science High School in Barangay Cembo.

SC OKs bail for Arenas’s former aide

by JOEL R. SAN JUAN


THE Supreme Court (SC) has ordered the Regional Trial Court in Makati City to comply within five days with the directive of the Court of Appeals (CA) issued last year allowing a former assistant of philanthropist and socialite Rosemarie “Baby” Arenas and her co-accused in a multi-million estafa case to post bail.

In a two-page resolution, the 15-man Court also denied the petition for the issuance of a writ of amparo filed by David So questioning the continued detention of her daughter Joanne So Villena at the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) despite the CA’s favorable ruling for her and other accused on February 16, 2011.

The appellate court, in the said ruling, declared the warrants and the subsequent alias warrants of arrest issued on June 8, 2010 against Villena null and void for having been issued without no bail recommended.

The CA also held that there was probable cause for the issuance of the warrants of arrest against the accused but since the crime charged is not punishable by death, reclusion perpetua or life imprisonment, they must be allowed to post bail.

Thus, it directed the RTC to fix the amount of bail preparatory to the issuance of new warrants of arrest and subsequently denied the motion for reconsideration filed by the NBI.

Aside from Villena, also covered by the CA ruling were her three siblings identified as John So, Maria Melitona Sanches and Maria Elena So Guisande.

Guisande, Arenas’s former assistant is believed to be the mastermind behind the scam. Her husband Antonio Vicente was also named as accused in the estafa case.

(Joel San Juan)

Bangkal Gas Leak Risk Gone

by ANNA LIZA T. VILLAS


MANILA, Philippines — Barangay Bangkal in Makati City is now safe from any possible explosion because of the gas leak trouble left by the pipeline operator First Philippine Industrial Corp. (FPIC) in the area two years ago, an expert said last Friday.

“The oil-contaminated groundwater in Barangay Bangkal will not explode anymore,” said Dr. Carlo Arcilla, director of the University of the Philippines National Institute of Geological Sciences (UP-NIGS) said in a forum with barangay residents.

At least 200 residents attended the forum, with some of them telling Arcilla that they are still worried for their safety although the contamination was discovered two years ago.

“For two straight years that “you (residents) have been banned from lighting up firecrackers and fireworks because of the situation in the area,” Arcilla said.

He said the underground of Bangkal has thick layers of adobe rock that covers the water tables, saying “it’s a good thing.”

He said the thick layer of adobe rock plays an important factor why the residents do not smell the petroleum that seeped into the soil or mixed with groundwater.

“It is thick why explains why ground level did not sink,” Arcilla added.

He said there are still around one million liters of petroleum products trapped in the underground of the barangay and has to be retrieved by the FPIC.

Buddha Bar is latest stylish hangout in Makati

by ABS-CBNnews.com


MANILA, Philippines – You’ve heard the CDs. Now, Filipinos can enjoy the Buddha Bar experience live after the Paris-based bar lounge opened a branch in Makati City.

The fourth franchise in Asia after Jakarta in Indonesia, Beirut in Lebanon and Dubai, Buddha Bar opened at Picar Place along Kalayaan Avenue in Makati with a stylish party attended by VIPs, led by Philippine Vice President Jejomar Binay.

Also seen at the opening bash were fashion models Bianca Valerio, Tweetie de Leon and Marina Benipayo, TV personality Rovilson Fernandez, designers JC Buendia and Randy Ortiz, and other socialites.

“We have seen Buddha Bar’s great success globally since it first opened in Paris in 1996 and we are happy that they’ve chosen to open here in Manila,” said Sylvere Le Gall, general manager of Buddha Bar Manila.

“Buddha Bar’s expansion in the Philippines will definitely raise the bar of entertaining and dining beyond expectation, ensuring everyone a harmonious experience,” he added.

Buddha Bar Manila is fully owned by Picar Development, a subsidiary of the AMA Group and developers of the residential condominium tower, Stratford Residences.

With its chic East-meets-West concept, Buddha Bar’s interiors feature custom crafted rope chandeliers, cosseted by gold etched walls with intricate oriental patterns that set off the rich palette of gold, red and black.

The brand new three storey complex, which can seat 525 people, features the most spacious event space in the city. The bar can be found on the first floor, while the second floor is devoted to the restaurant and sushi bar. There is also an open-air rooftop, which has been transformed into a lounge area.

Chill-out music

Before opening in Makati, Buddha Bar is best known for its popular CD compilations. The original “Buddha Bar I,” released in 1999, is regarded as one of the best-selling chill-out compilations of all time.

The tracks in the Buddha Bar CDs are usually inspired by traditional music and rhythms from Asia and South America, which have been turned into hypnotic electronic music.

Frank Fortet, group head of international development of George V Entertainment, the company that owns the Buddha Bar brand, explained that Buddha Bar focuses on three elements: music, light and food.

“With the lighting and the design, and the music, it creates a soundtrack for your night, that’s why it lingers,” Le Gall said in an interview with BusinessWorld, adding that the secret to Buddha Bar’s music is the choice of songs based on the clientele at a particular time.

As for the food, the Pacific Rim menu also follows the East-meets-West theme, mixing French techniques with Asian flavors. Among its famous dishes are the chicken salad, Thai curry prawns, caramelized lemon tart, and black sesame ice cream.

This early Buddha Bar is already gaining a following among the glamorous set and celebrities.

“Partner we have it here na!” model Phoemela Baranda tweeted.

“Does anybody know the number to Buddha Bar?” tweeted Azkals member Anton del Rosario.

“I'm so happy! Buddha bar opened in makati! Used 2go (sic) there when I was in hischool (sic) /college pero Paris nga lang. Hehe. Meron na sa Manila,” tweeted KC Concepcion, who stayed in Paris for several years before pursuing her showbiz career in the country.

Local, int'l artists sell works for the visually impaired

by Karen Flores, ABS-CBNnews.com


MANILA, Philippines -- A total of 13 local and international artists have agreed to sell their artworks to help raise funds for visually impaired Filipinos who belong to poor communities.

Betsy Westendorp hosted at her home in Makati City a press preview of an art sale and exhibit called "Art for a Vision," which will be held at the Crucible Gallery of SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City from February 10 to 21.

Proceeds will go to the projects of the Ophthalmological Foundation of the Philippines (OFPHIL), a non-profit organization that seeks to prevent blindness among the poor in the country.

"Thank you very much to my fellow artists who have generously given their work for this cause," Westendorp addressed the crowd.

Juvenal Sanso, widely known for his eye for landscapes, has agreed to hand over his "Glow of Spring" acrylic painting to OFPHIL. He hinted, though, that he has turned down a number of "doubtful" fundraising activities in the past.

"If it's all given to the poor, I'll give. But there are some cases when it's not," Sanso told ABS-CBNnews.com. "I'm absolutely for helping, but I have to be sure."

Virgilio "Pandy" Aviado's contribution, "EDSA Ambulant Vendor," is perhaps the most apt artwork in the "Art for a Vision" exhibit. The xylograph painting features a man wearing eyeglasses.

"I use every opportunity that I have to help with my artwork. I always use the best ones [for events like these]," said Aviado, who cited his school's "man for others" motto.

The exhibit and art sale is not only about giving poor Filipinos access to eye care, but also about helping them see the beauty of Philippine art. Cid Reyes, who is also an art writer and critic, noted how the local art industry is undergoing "another renaissance," with the last one being in the 1950s during the time of Luz and Vicente Manansala.

"Young artists in their 20s or early 40s are slowly being recognized in Asia. They are becoming auction darlings, which are fantastic for our reputation," said Reyes, who donated two works from his "Illumination" series.

"The Philippines is really blessed when it comes to the arts, even if our country has other problems. Not just in visual arts, but also in music, cinema and literature. We are blessed when it comes to creativity," he added.

Reyes lamented, though that many of the country's artists have yet to be discovered. "There are very few art critics here. There are a great number of Filipino artists that are not yet known or written," he said.

Aside from Reyes, Aviado, Sanso and Westendorp, other artists who have contributed their masterpieces to "Art for a Vision" include Gus Abor, Cesar Caballero, Valeria Cavestany, Igan D'Bayan, Ramon Diaz, Arturo Luz, Ramon Orlina, Impy Pilapil and Jaime Zobel.

According to OFPHIL, 3.4 million Filipinos are visually impaired, with 62% of the cases due to cataracts. About 90% of those who suffer from blindness are from poor families, it added.

"It is important to note that 75% of cases of blindness can be avoided through prevention and treatment. No person should be needlessly blind and we hope to reach as many people as possible who have no means for proper eye care," said OFPHIL founder and president Dr. Felipe Tolentino.

OFPHIL said common eye problems in children include amblyopia (reduced vision in an eye that has not received adequate use during childhood), strabismus (eyes that are not properly aligned), color blindness, retinopathy of prematurity (blood vessels develop at the back of the eye and cover the area of the retina), myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism.

On the other hand, conditions that cause blindness among adults include cataract (clouding of the natural lens), ptyregium (raised, wedge-shaped growth of the conjunctiva), and glaucoma (a disease resulting from a malformation or malfunction of the eye's drainage structures).

Makati register of deeds says Mrs. Corona bought P3.5-M property in 2004

by zambotimes.com/


MANILA — Atty. Constante Caluya, Jr., the register of deeds of Makati City and custodian of transfer of certificate of title (TCT) since Nov. 2, 2011 on Monday testified on the purchase of a property in 2004 of Cristina Corona, the wife of embattled Supreme Court (SC) Chief Justice Renato Corona. On direct-examination by Rep. Marlyn Agabas, Caluya brought with him the original condominium certificate TCT no. 85756 of Unit 31-B one-bed room type, 48-square-meter of the 34th Floor of the Columns, Ayala Village, Makati City in the name of Cristina Corona worth P3,588,931.32. He also brought with him the original absolute deed of sale dated Oct. 1, 2004 and the original certificate authorizing registration (CAR) issued by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) in the name of Cristina Corona of the said property. The defense, led by retired SC Associate Justice Serafin Cuevas, also admitted the presentation of the prosecution's eighth witness. There was no cross-examination by the defense on the prosecution's eighth witness. (PNA) RMA/PTR

NAPOLCOM clarifies issue on non-release of 2011 police entrance, promotional exams

by PIA Press Release


MAKATI CITY, January 30 (PIA) -- The National Police Commission (NAPOLCOM) has clarified the issue concerning the non-release of the results of the police entrance and promotional examinations held last October 23, 2011 due to alleged massive cheating and rescheduling of said exams on January 28, 2012 In an advisory dated January 27, 2012, NAPOLCOM Commissioner Eduardo U. Escueta said the October 23 exams were not invalidated and that the same will be released very soon. Escueta also said that NAPOLCOM’s Electronic Data Processing Services Division (EDP) is still checking all answer sheets. Thus, there is no truth to the supposed rescheduling of said examinations. To get accurate information on the results of examinations, please text NAPOLCOM EXAMRSLT”Application Number or Examinee’s Full Name” Note: use the 6-digit application number assigned by NAPOLCOM, ex: 010001; names should be entered in this format: Last/First/Middle, including slashes to: 2256 for Globe/TM/Handyphone; 6808 for Smart/Talk n Text; and 2269 for Sun Cell. Examinees may also check with the NAPOLCOM website at www.napolcom.gov.ph or call the commission’s Examination Division, Personnel and Administrative Service at telephone numbers 899-0085 or 403-2588. (NAPOLCOM/RJB/JEG-PIA-NCR)

Security Intensified After Makati Blast

by ANNA LIZA VILLAS


MANILA, Philippines — The Makati City police met with representatives from the business sector to further improve coordination and update on security measures following the last week’s explosion in a vacant lot in Salcedo Village.

Superintendent Jaime Santos, Makati police officer in charge, said they are stepping up protection around the business community in the city on instructions from Mayor Jejomar Erwin Binay.

Santos said part of the security measures is the deployment of additional policemen for round-the-clock foot and mobile patrols in Makati’s Central Business District.

The city’s tourist police force was also beefed up in areas known as likely destination for local and for-eign visitors.

Another deterrent measure is the “Oplan Photo Sita” in which policemen manning checkpoints stop mo-torcyclists, perform routine security checks, photograph the license plate numbers and then attach a security information sticker to the plate.

Santos said the photograph and the security sticker help them identify the registered owner of the mo-torcycle should it be used for crime or any illegal activities.

Apart from the business district, security measures are also in place in the city’s outskirts to deter would-be terrorists or criminal groups out to sow chaos in the country’s financial and business capital.

At the same time, Santos appealed to the public to cooperate by reporting suspicious-looking persons and vehicles to the nearest police stations.

“We have to help each other and be vigilant especially if we notice suspicious- looking characters or vehicles in the area,” he said.

Santos refused to comment on the result of the investigation of the blast in the lot at H.V. De La Costa and Tordesillas Streets last Monday, saying only that a task force headed by Senior Superintendent Rolando Asuncion is spearheading the investigation.

Makati opens 'SMART' summer program on Feb. 13

by Jerome Carlo R. Paunan


MAKATI CITY, Jan. 28 (PIA) -- The local government will be accepting applicants starting February 13 for its annual summer youth program dubbed Sports, Music, Arts and Recreational Training (SMART) at the Office of Councilor Ferdinand Eusebio at the 18th Floor of Makati City Hall. According to Mayor Jejomar Erwin S. Binay, the program can accommodate--on a first come, first serve basis--up to 3,000 young residents who wish to make their summer vacation worthwhile. “The SMART program offers the youth of Makati a wide range of activities aimed at stimulating their creativity and developing their skills in their choice of sports or other fields of interest. It gives them the chance to enhance their leadership qualities and increase their physical and mental agility in a fun and exciting way,” Binay said. Binay encouraged parents of children ages six to 21 years old in Makati to enrol their kids in the SMART program on February 13 or soon afterwards so they can benefit from the program. The SMART program is now on its tenth year and has provided over 12,000 young residents free training in various sports and other fields of interest, such as music and the arts, culinary skills and academics during the school summer break. Aside from free registration, program participants will also receive free T-shirts. The program will run from April 16 to May 26. The Office of Councilor Eusebio will be open from 8am to 5pm, Mondays to Fridays, for the screening, interview and registration of SMART applicants. Meanwhile, the events being offered are: academic tutorial classes, academics for grade 2 to 6 students; aikido for 12 to 21 years old; arnis for seven to 12 years old; badminton for eight to 16 years old; basketball clinic for nine to 15 years old; classical ballet for ages six to 15; cooking and baking for kids ages seven to 12 years old; dance clinic for ages 12 to 21; drama and acting workshop for ages seven to 12; drawing and painting for ages six to 15; guitar lessons for 10 to 21 years old; karate for ages 10 to 15; muay thai for 12 to 21 years old; personality development for 12 to 21 years old; swimming for ages seven to 12 years old; table tennis for eight to 12 years old; taekwondo for ages seven to 15; and voice lessons for seven to 12 years old. Last year, SMART program had a total of 3,123 enrolees, of which 2,996 graduated. The Makati SMART summer program is open to residents who are required to present the following: duly accomplished registration and waiver form, certified true copy of Birth or Baptismal Certificate of the child; Voter’s Registration Receipt (VRR) or COMELEC Certificate (bring photocopy of Voter’s ID for validation) of parent or legal guardian; and two pieces 1x1 latest picture of the child. (ICRD/RJB/JCP-PIA NCR)

Makati orders regular drainage cleaning around construction sites

by Jerome Carlo R. Paunan


MAKATI CITY, Jan. 27 (PIA) -- The local government, through a memorandum from the Office of the Building Official, has ordered all developers and contractors of medium and high-rise buildings being constructed in the city to conduct regular de-clogging of drainage around their job site after frequent flooding in the areas was noted. Engineer Nelson Morales, concurrent city building official and city engineer, said that despite regular maintenance works being done by the City Department of Engineering and Public Works (DEPW) on all public drainage and waterways in the city, flooding continued to occur in streets along construction areas because of clogging caused by construction materials. “We have issued this order to remind all developers and contractors that they need to clean up all leftover construction materials, such as concrete mixtures, soil, gravel, sand and other forms of debris every month during the construction phase and immediately after project completion,” Morales said. The building official also said that the city government has required developers and contractors to submit a monthly Maintenance Report until the completion of the project so as to be able to monitor their compliance with the City Hall directive and the National Building Code, or Republic Act 6541. Morales said the Office of the Building Official (OBO) will issue a stoppage order to developers and contractors who fail to comply with the memorandum, which he said was part of Makati’s continuing advocacy for disaster resiliency and risk reduction. He also said construction sites should be kept clean and safe, especially since these buildings are located at the Central Business District. The Enforcement Division of the OBO, together with cluster supervisors from DEPW and in coordination with barangay officials, will be conducting random checks on the sites to ensure strict compliance with the said directive. (ICRD/RJB/JCP-PIA NCR)

Stallions rout Airmen, pace UFL

by Joey Villar, The Philippine Star


MANILA, Philippines -- Stallion Giligan's FC leaned on its superb passing to fuel its attacking game as it smashed defending champion Air Force Phoenix, 4-1, to storm in front of the First Division of the United Football League at the University of Makati field Tuesday night.

Reuben Doctora Jr. and Korean Lee Joo Young took turns in delivering the goals as the Stallions forced a three-way tie with the Loyola Meralco Sparks and LBC-backed Kaya FC side with six points apiece.

Stallions, however, took the No. 1 spot on goal differential with nine points, thanks to its 6-0 rout of Navy Red Juice two weeks ago. Kaya and the Sparks have two goal differential each.

"As long as we keep our 'one-pass' style of play and stay disciplined, we’ll have a chance in this tournament," said Stallions manager Ernest Nierras.

Lee, who came through with the league’s first hat-trick in a lopsided win over the Navymen, opened scoring with an eighth-minute goal aided somewhat by Navy goalie Edmundo Mercado Jr., who misread the ball spin following a botched clearance by Joel Ballo-Allo Jr.

Doctora, a former national team member, followed it up less than 20 minutes later as he snatched the ball at midfield and turned it into a goal for a 2-0 lead.

Lee made it 3-0 with another goal, his fifth in just two matches, just five minutes before halftime, giving the Stallions enough cushion to weather the Airmen's desperate final assault.

After some bungled attempts, including one by Long Teng Cup Golden Boot Chieffy Caligdong that was saved by Wilson Muñoz, Air Force finally scored in the 70th minute Yanti Barsales on a cross from the lightning-quick Caligdong on the right side.

But Doctora, out to make an impression for a possible re-inclusion to the Azkals team, broke away for a left-footed finish on the 85th minute to seal the victory.

While the Stallions, the League and Cup title-holders, remained unscathed, the Airmen, who lost to Kaya, 0-1, in the opener, remained winless.

Makati orders: Stop plastic use

by ANNA LIZA T. VILLAS


MANILA, Philippines — A deadline was set Wednesday by the Makati City government for retail outlets and commercial establishments to stop using plastic bags and polystyrene food containers. In a recently-signed rules and regulations to implement a city ordinance, the city government gave business establishments in Makati one year to dispose of their inventory of plastic and styrofoam containers and promote the use of recyclable substitutes. Makati City Mayor Jejomar Erwin S. Binay said that “indiscriminate dumping of plastics and styrofoams, besides being unsanitary, would also hurt the environment since they would clog drainage and waterways.” “Executive Order (EO) 0009 is a milestone issuance that strengthens our fight against global warming,” the young Binay said. This would greatly reduce the non-biodegradable materials and solid wastes that add up to the pollution of Makati City and clog our waterways resulting in floods in some areas of the city, he added. The Implementing Rules and Regulations for the EO prescribe the guidelines, procedures and standards, as well as facilitate compliance of business owners and to effectively and efficiently achieve the objectives of the ordinance. The guidelines encourage the use of plastic bags by business establishments selling dry and wet goods provided that they are biodegradable and/or recyclable. Environment-friendly or eco-friendly bags such as jute, fabric/cloth, paper bags and basket/woven bags made from pandan, coconut tree or buri/buli leaves, and others, may be provided by the management of such establishment for free or for a fee. They prohibit the distribution, sale and use of styrofoams (polysterene) and other materials with similar non-biodegradable components that are being used as food, drinks and beverages containers, and plastic dining utensils on all restaurants, fast food chains, canteens, eateries and similar establishments. The EO covers all supermarkets, public markets, shopping malls/department stores, grocery stores, convenience stores, restaurants, fast food chains, canteens, eateries and similar establishments.

Task force created to probe Makati blast, cops mum

by KG, GMA News


Police have created a task force to investigate a blast that damaged some vehicles and a building in Makati City's Salcedo Village area Monday afternoon.

But the Southern Police District kept mum Tuesday morning on whether the explosion stemmed from a bomb or whether terrorism was involved.

"As of last night the SPD created Special Investigation Task Group Dela Costa to conduct a thorough investigation of the incident in Makati City yesterday afternoon," SPD spokesperson Chief Inspector Jenny Tecson said in an interview on dzBB radio.

But when asked if the incident was considered a bombing, Tecson declined to answer.

Tecson also would not give a direct answer when asked if the explosion was deliberate.

"We are still in the process of reconstructing the pieces of evidence recovered in the area," she would only say.

She added the Explosives and Ordinance Division and Scene of the Crime Operations teams are still processing the evidence found in the area.

When asked why the investigation is taking so long, she said they are investigating the matter thoroughly.

"Tinitingnan natin ang bagay na dapat natin ikonsidera para maging concrete (ang findings)," she said.

When asked if terrorism could be involved, she said, "sa ngayon wala pa."

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council said the incident occurred at 1:45 p.m. near Salcedo Park Condominium along H.V. dela Costa Street Barangay Bel-Air.

Damaged in the incident were the glass panels of the fifth and sixth floors of the condo building, and the front glass panel of nearby Classica 1 tower.

Also damaged were a black Subaru SUV (NOE-749), a beige Toyota Avanza (DFP-204), and a "689 Transport" taxi (UVM-263).

No one was hurt in the incident.

Explosion jolts Makati City

by Jerome Carlo R. Paunan


MANILA, Philippines – An explosion occurred in a vacant lot in Makati City past 2 p.m. today, a radio report said.

The incident happened along Dela Costa Street in Barangay Salcedo Village.

In a radio interview, Makati City police chief Jaime Santos said their bomb operatives are still conducting post blast investigation on the incident to identify the kind of explosive that jolted the area.

"Luckily, no one was injured except for a slightly damage car," he said.

The explosion was so loud that some of the glass window panels of nearby establishments were broken.

Makati bats for more jobs, OFW protection

by Jerome Carlo R. Paunan


MAKATI CITY, Jan. 22 (PIA) -- The local government of Makati has intensified its support to providing assistance and protection for both local job seekers and overseas workers, a statement said over the weekend. This, after Makati Mayor Jejomar Erwin S. Binay signed an agreement with the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) and the Department of Labor and Employment (DoLE) NCR to boost the city's employment programs. Binay and POEA Administrator Hans Leo J. Cacdac signed the memorandum of understanding on anti-illegal recruitment (AIR) information campaign to ensure protection of Makati residents who wish to work abroad. Another agreement for a National Skills Registry System (NSRS) was also forged between Makati and DOLE-NCR through Director Raymundo C. Agravante to promote access to relevant labor market information and qualified manpower source data base. Binay underscored the support of concerned agencies who provide a comprehensive database for job matching and massive labor-benefit information campaign. He also cited the increasing size of employable work force in the city and number of its overseas workers. “We are grateful for the collaborative support of DOLE and POEA to our livelihood and employment programs, as the challenge is not only to provide jobs but also to ensure the workers’ protection locally and abroad,” Binay said. For his part, POEA’s Cacdac assured Binay of the agency’s “all-out support to (the city) workers’ protection and employment program,” informing the mayor that the POEA Help Desk for the south-eastern section of Metro Manila will be put up in Makati. A poster-marker detailing “10 Commandments to Avoid Illegal Recruitment” was also turned over by Cacdac to the mayor. Under the agreement, the POEA shall assist Makati, through its Public Employment Service Office (PESO), in the regular conduct of pre-employment orientation and anti-illegal recruitment seminars, as well as provide lists of jobs available overseas and all necessary assistance to safeguard the welfare of overseas Filipino workers. Moreover, the POEA Help Desk will provide all other possible assistance to overseas job seekers and even returning workers as part of its thrust of continuous public service. Seminars on overseas employment for PESO staff, Overseas Pre-Employment Orientation Seminar (PEOS) and AIR have been regularly featured in Labor Education for Graduating Students (LEGS) program in the city’s colleges and universities. Makati’s Overseas Filipino Workers Program, on the other hand, has been extending financial assistance to repatriated OFWs and their families, such as inclusion in the Government Internship Program (GIP), Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES), and technical training at the University of Makati (UMAK) through the Makati Training Placement and Livelihood Consortia (MTPLC). Meanwhile, Makati PESO is assured of keeping its status as the Best PESO in the Phil-Jobnet Category of DOLE, having the highest number of job applicants registered online with 37,600. During the National Labor Day Job Fair last year (May 1, 2011), the NSRS Makati was also designated to be Metro Manila’s distribution center and spearhead the use of the bar code readable Phil-Jobnet Cards by jobseekers nationwide. The NSRS software features database of job hunters, skilled workers and establishments in Makati’s 33 barangays, equipped through the Barangay PESO Satellite Program (BESO) with needed tools for job matching and monitoring of applicants and employers in their respective communities. (ICRD/RJB/JCP-PIA NCR)

Japan donates wheelchairs for children

by ELLSON A. QUISMORIO


MANILA, Philippines — Dozens of Filipino children with disabilities (CWDs) are expected to benefit from the Japanese government’s donation of refurbished wheelchairs.

Akio Isomata, minister for Economic Affairs of the Embassy of Japan, will attend the turnover ceremony of “The Project to Provide the Refurbished Wheelchairs for Handicapped Children in Care Centers in Manila” Tuesday, 2 p.m. at Jesus V. Del Rosario (JVR) Foundation in Legazpi Village, Makati City.

Also attending are Regional Director Wilma Naviamos of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Tomoyuki Katano from Japanese non-government organization (NGO) The Volunteers Group to Send Wheelchairs to Overseas Children, and officials from JVR Foundation.

Under the project, the Japanese NGO gathered 80 used wheelchairs in Japan and sent them to the Philippines after fixing them up for renewed use.

“The wheelchairs were granted to five facilities for children with disabilities in Metro Manila,” the Japan Information and Culture Center (JICC) said.

The Japanese government paid for the refurbishment and transportation of the wheelchairs through the Grant Assistance for Japanese NGO projects. The particular grant assistance was worth ¥801,180 (approximately P400,000).

“In the Philippines, wheelchairs for children are expensive, and facilities taking care of handicapped children have a hard time securing adequate numbers of wheelchair. Occasionally, due to the lack of wheelchairs for children, they are forced to use adult-sized wheelchairs,” noted the JICC.

The Grant Assistance for Japanese NGO Projects started in the Philippines in 2002. Since then, the Japanese government has disbursed approximately P165 million for a total of 27 projects in the Philippines under the scheme.

Makati collects P11B in 2011

by Jerome Carlo R. Paunan


MAKATI CITY, Jan. 20 (PIA) -- The city’s total revenue collection reached P11 billion in 2011 as it remains deficit-free, a statement posted on its website said. Based on a report from the city treasurer, Makati’s total collections for 2011 reached P10,929,989,221.01, or a nine percent increase over 2010 revenue. From business tax, P5,149,047,980.79 was collected, which was an increase of 16 percent over 2011. Realty tax closely followed with P4,047,547,205.00 or a three percent increase, while P607,094,029.69 was collected from Miscellaneous fees with a two-percent increase. Likewise, from its economic enterprises, the city generated P215,383,079.62, or a 13 percent increase from the previous year. The rest of the revenue came from Interest Income of P132,037,938.91 and from the Internal Revenue Allotment, P778,878,987.00. According to Makati Mayor Jejomar Erwin S. Binay, the city's substantial income growth would equate to adequate funding for the city's 2012 program of expenditures without needing to impose new or additional taxes. Binay said the efficient collection also guarantees the continuous delivery of enhanced social services and programs for residents and stakeholders this year. “It has been a good year for us and we are glad that we would be able to continue providing more and better services for our people, having enough funds to finance our flagship programs on health, education and social services, as well as new, groundbreaking initiatives in urban development, disaster resiliency and environmental health,” Binay said. The mayor also expressed gratitude for the trust and confidence of the business sector in “our policy of wise fiscal management and prudent spending of the people’s money,” as shown by their doing business in the city and diligently paying the correct taxes. Meanwhile, Binay reminded all business owners and taxpayers of the deadline for applications for renewal of permits and payment of taxes on Friday, Jan. 20, 2012. Payments made after the said date shall be subject to surcharges and penalties under the revised Makati Revenue Code and City Ordinance No. 2004-A-025. As early as November 2011, the city’s Business Permits Office (BPO) started serving tax payers who availed of certain privileges and discounts for early payments and enjoyed hassle-free transactions. (ICRD/RJB/JCP-PIA NCR)

Makati collects P11B in revenue

  • Source: Makati collects P11B in revenue
  • January 19, 2012, 2:56pm
by ANNA LIZA T. VILLAS


MANILA, Philippines — The Makati City government declared it will not impose new or additional taxes as the city’s total revenue collection reached P11 billion in 2011.

Makati Mayor Jejomar Erwin S. Binay said the city remains deficit-free, ensuring the continuous delivery of enhanced social services and programs for residents and stakeholders this year.

“It has been a good year for us and we are glad that we would be able to continue providing more and better services for our people, having enough funds to finance our flagship programs on health, education and social services, as well as new, groundbreaking initiatives in urban development, disaster resiliency and environmental health,” Binay said.

The health and education sectors got the lion’s share of the 2012 budget, with P2.1 billion earmarked for health and P1.9 billion for education. Environmental management services and local disaster risk reduction management follow, with P640.5 million and P425.9 million, respectively.

The mayor also expressed gratitude for the trust and confidence of the business sector in “our policy of wise fiscal management and prudent spending of the people’s money,” as shown by their doing business in the city and diligently paying the correct taxes.

The city government this year will be working with a total budget of P10.1 billion, which includes the P8.652 billion from the General Fund approved by the Sangguniang Panlungsod and P1.450 billion from the Special Activities Fund under the Office of the Mayor.

Based on a report from the City Treasurer, Makati’s total collections for 2011 reached P10,929,989,221.01, or a nine-percent increase over 2010 revenue. From business tax, P5,149,047,980.79 was collected, which was an increase of 16 percent over 2011. Realty tax closely followed with P4,047,547,205.00 or a three-percent increase, while P607,094,029.69 was collected from miscellaneous fees with a two-percent increase. From its economic enterprises, the city generated P215,383,079.62, or a 13 percent increase from the previous year. The rest of the revenue came from Interest Income of P132,037,938.91 and from the Internal Revenue Allotment, P778,878,987.00.

Meanwhile, Binay reminded all business owners and taxpayers of the deadline for applications for renewal of permits and payment of taxes on Friday, January 20, 2012. Payments made after the said date shall be subject to surcharges and penalties under the revised Makati Revenue Code and City Ordinance No. 2004-A-025.

As early as November 2011, the city’s Business Permits Office started serving taxpayers who availed of certain privileges and discounts for early payments and enjoyed hassle-free transactions.

MMDA releases Bourne Legacy Filming Traffic Rerouting Scheme

by PIA Press Release


MAKATI CITY, January 18 (PIA) -- The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) issues the following traffic advisory for January 18-19 and January 28-30 in connection with the location filming of Bourne Legacy which is currently filming in Metro Manila: January 18 - 19, 2012, 5:00 am - 6:00 pm Temporary Road Closed: along Bacobo St. from San Andres to Remedios Circle ITC - Remedios Circle ALTERNATE ROUTES Along Remedios from Roxas Boulevard to Taft Avenue Right at M. Adriatico, left at Maria Oroso, right at Remedios Street to point of destination 2. Along Remedios from Taft to Roxas Boulevard Right at Maria Orosa, left at Julio Nakpil, left at Adriatico, right at Remedios to point of destination January 28 - 30, 2012 Temporary Road Closed: Tramo infront of Five Star Bus Terminal ALTERNATE ROUTES Along Tramo from Andrews to EDSA Right turn at St. Agustin, straight ahead to C. Jose, right turn to EDSA to point of destination Or right turn to Edang Pinagbarilan, right turn to EDSA, to point of destination January 28 - 29, 2012 (Saturday - Sunday) Temporary close to traffic outer lane of EDSA northbound from Taft Avenue to Tramo 2 part of elevated walkway ALTERNATE ROUTES To EDSA Northbound From Coastal Road and Airport area, take Domestic Road, left turn from to Andrews, right to EDSA to point of destination From Mall of Asia take Buendia to point of destination January 30, 2012, 5:00 am - 12:00 nn Temporary close to traffic - along Zamora from EDSA to Protacio, one outer-lane of EDSA southbound from Tramo to Taft Avenue ALTERNATE ROUTES 1. Along EDSA Right turn of Tramo, left turn to Celeridad, right turn to Zamora to point of destination Or right turn to Taft Avenue, right turn to Protacio, left turn to Zamora to point of destination (LFB/RJB/MMDA/PIA-NCR)

Makati exec reminds taxpayers to make use of satellite payment centers

by Jerome Carlo R. Paunan


MAKATI CITY, Jan. 17 (PIA) -- Mayor Erwin S. Binay today urged realty taxpayers to make use of the convenient option of paying at the nearest satellite payment center instead of going to City Hall to settle their tax obligations. The local government has imposed a January 20 deadline for all real property tax payment in Makati City. Binay said taxpayers only need to present their previous receipt as each transaction takes a maximum of four minutes with an electronic receipt issued from computers installed by the city government at the barangay halls. The mayor said realty tax payments will be accepted in the barangays on the following dates: Guadalupe Nuevo and East Rembo, on January 17; and West Rembo and Pembo on January 18. All of the centers mentioned will accept payments from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. The city's Business Permits Office has started working extended hours since Monday, and will continue to work overtime to accommodate clients as follows: January 17 to 20, 8:00 am to 10:00 pm. Likewise, to accommodate late payments, they will be open January 21 to 22, 8:00 am to 8:00 pm; January 23 to 27, 8:00 am to 10:00 pm; January 28 to 29, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm; and January 30 to 31, 8:00 am to 7:30 pm. (ICRD/RJB/JCP-PIA NCR)

Beat Jan. 20 deadline, Makati taxpayers told

by Jerome Carlo R. Paunan


MAKATI CITY, Jan. 16 (PIA) -- The local government today reminded business owners and real property taxpayers to beat the January 20 deadline for tax payments and renewal of business licenses to avoid penalties and avail themselves of discounts. Makati Mayor Jejomar Erwin S. Binay Jr. said the Business Permits Office and the Real Property Tax Division will remain open beyond regular working hours and on weekends to accommodate clients until January 20, while the 14 satellite payment centers in the barangays will be opened on scheduled dates to accept realty tax payments. The mayor said Makati offers a 10 percent discount on realty taxes paid on an annual basis, and five percent for quarterly payments made during the first 20 days of the quarter. However, he said that annual realty tax payments made after March will be charged an eight percent penalty, while late quarterly payments will incur a penalty of two percent per month. On the other hand, penalties on late payments of business taxes include a 25 percent surcharge and a two percent penalty per month of delay until the amount due is fully settled. (ICRD/RJB/JCP-PIA NCR)

DILG chief relieves Makati fire officer accused of extortion

by Dona Z. Pazzibugan

Philippine Daily Inquirer


Interior Secretary Jesse Robredo has made an example of a Makati fire officer who was demoted and relieved as city fire safety inspector over an extortion complaint filed by a beauty salon clerk. Based on Robredo’s orders to Makati City fire marshal Superintendent Ricardo Perdigon, Fire Officer 3 Ronardo Ilagan was relieved of his post at the city fire station. He was subsequently transferred to the Tejeros Fire Substation, another fire station in the city, where he will serve as an ordinary fire truck crew and nozzle man. In a statement, Robredo said that Ilagan was relieved and demoted based on a complaint sent through text message by an employee of Kazemi Face, Skin and Body Care Center located at Allegro Center on Chino Roces Avenue Extension in Magallanes, Makati City. According to the salon clerk, Cheryl Medina, the city fire safety inspector demanded P45,000 in exchange for the issuance of a Fire Safety Inspection Certificate. She also claimed that Ilagan had twice ordered that their fire extinguishers be refilled even though these were bought from a reputable company.

High-tech remedy to Makati pipeline leakage

by SAMMY MARTIN


FUEL pipeline operator First Philippine Industrial Corp. (FPIC) on Friday announced their long-term environmental solution to Bangkal, Makati leakage in the pipeline with state of the art technology called Multi Phase Extraction (MPE) system in the affected West Tower condominium and nearby areas.

The government’s Interagency Committee on Environmental Health (IACEH) in an October 14, 2011 resolution signed by Health Secretary Enrique Ona had approved the MPE system for long-term remedy of leak-affected areas based on endorsement of the Department of Science and Technology.

“The MPE technology is the more permanent solution to the clean-up of Bangkal to address any long-term health risks for residents in the area. We have brought in the leading experts, both local and international, to assist us in our remediation efforts and to achieve our goal of mitigating all the potential environmental and health risks,” said FPIC president Tony Mabasa.

The MPE technology is being provided by FPIC’s multinational environmental services contractor CH2MHill Philippines Inc., whose team of experts muster knowledge gained from a gamut of projects worldwide.

The MPE system will clean the soil and groundwater to avert any long-term health risk to the community. The clean up will be done two ways: (1) pumping out oil-contaminated groundwater, and (2) soil vapor extraction, to extract fuel and petroleum hydrocarbons in the dissolved and vapor phases.

The MPE extraction wells that are strategically located within Bangkal will simultaneously extract volatile organic compounds or VOCs in soil vapor and groundwater.

The system has an oil-water separator, air stripper, catalytic oxiders, air compressors, air pumps, and vacuum pump for the soil vapor extraction system all linked to an electronic control system that is capable of remote and on-line monitoring of the actual performance of the equipment.

The system will be housed in two 40- footer container vans fitted with noise reduction paneling.

MPE system is designed to meet United States Environmental Protection Agency (“U.S. E.P.A.”) environmental emissions and discharge criteria.

PSALM extends Ecozone rate program

by PIA Press Release


MAKATI CITY, Jan 13 (PIA) -- The Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management (PSALM) Corporation has effectively extended the Ecozone Rate Program (ERP) with the extension of its Transition Supply Contract (TSC) with Manila Electric Company (MERALCO) for a maximum period of one year or until three months after the introduction of open access and retail competition, whichever comes earlier, subject to the approval of the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC). According to PSALM president and chief executive officer, Emmanuel R. Ledesma Jr., with the ERP extension, Meralco will continuously charge discounted power rates to 632 companies operating in the 19 economic zones within the Meralco franchise area. Ledesma also assured the public that the ERP extension will not result to higher power rates or increase the Universal Charge. “The extension of the ERP supports the government’s investment stimulus package for ecozone locators to further boost the economy and bolster the competitiveness of Philippine manufacturers,” Ledesma said. This decision was approved by the PSALM board of directors, which includes the heads of the Department of Finance, the Department of Energy, and the Department of Trade and Industry. Ledesma further explained that the government’s investment stimulus package not only ensures that the economic zone locators will continuously enjoy discounted power rates as an incentive, but also takes into consideration that PSALM will not incur additional operating losses as a result. PSALM has been constantly coordinating with the Philippine Economic Zone Authority in the implementation of this project, PEZA being the lead agency tasked by the Department of Trade and Industry to handle the matter. PSALM recently decided to extend its TSC with Meralco to ensure the stability of electricity prices and to retain the power rate charged within the economic zones so as not to hinder the country’s investment growth and displace millions of workers employed by ecozone locators. These companies account for 43% of the aggregate Philippine manufacturing exports, or around USD19 billion, and provide 222,213 jobs. (PSALM/RJB/ DBNV-PIA NCR)

Justice Carpio denies owning Makati condo

by Juliet Javellana

Philippine Daily Inquirer


MANILA, Philippines — Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio on Thursday denied owning a multimillion-peso condominium unit in Makati City. “`I do not own the so-called 800 square meter penthouse unit with a swimming pool,” Carpio said in a letter sent to the Philipine Daily Inquirer. A senior court official earlier told the Inquirer that Malacanang should also investigate Carpio’s alleged questionable acquisition of an 800-square meter unit atop Avignon Tower on HV De la Costa Street in Salcedo Village, Makati. Carpio is said to be Malacanang’s favored successor to impeached Chief Justice Renato Corona. “My family owns one of the two units on the floor below the penthouse, and there is no swimming pool in our unit. Our unit is reported in my SALN,” he said. Carpio said the Avignon Tower, a 23-year-old building, has been his residence even before he joined the Supreme Court.

Makati court junks billboard operators’ suit against MMDA

by Ferdinand Fabella


THE Makati City regional trial court has dismissed the petition of the Outdoor Advertising Association of the Philippines which sought to stop the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority from implementing its new billboard regulations.

RTC Branch 132 Judge Rommel Baybay, in dismissing the petition, said the OAAP had no legal standing to sue the MMDA on behalf of its member-advertising companies.

The court said the OAAP was a mere umbrella organization of business entities engaged in outdoor advertising and not the real party in interest who stands to be affected by the enforcement of the MMDA’s new billboard regulations.

“In this case, the real parties in interest are the members of the petitioner Association who stand to suffer direct injury as a result of the enforcement of the [new regulations],” Baybay said.

The group has more than 80 members composed of outdoor advertising firms in Metro Manila.

The OAAP had said the MMDA acted with grave abuse of discretion when it entered into an agreement with the Department of Public Works and Highways in coming up with new guidelines in the regulation of advertising billboards along major thoroughfares.

The group alleged that the MMDA violated the proprietary rights of its members when it launched its billboard crackdown in May last year in complete disregard of the procedures outlined in the law and without according due process to aggrieved parties.

It also said the MMDA’s mandated 60 x 40 feet size requirement for billboards was too small for advertising purposes. On Edsa alone, more than 30 percent of existing billboards are more than 60 x 40 feet.

Carpio won't comment on condo

by Ina Reformina, ABS-CBN News


MANILA, Philippines - Associate Justice Antonio Carpio has no comment on his reported ownership of an 800-square-meter condominium unit in Avignon Tower in Salcedo Village, Makati City.

Speaking to ABS-CBN News, Atty. Maria Teresa Sibulo, who heads Carpio's staff at the Supreme Court, said Carpio does not comment on issues and has not given any reaction on the report.

News reports bare Carpio, the reported top contender for Chief Justice should Renato Corona vacate the post, owns the said condominium unit, prompting calls for Malacañang to also dig deeper into his wealth and assets.

Corona, who is facing impeachment charges before the Senate, is under fire for allegedly owning a 303.5-square meter unit in The Bellagio worth P14.5 million. A report by Raissa Robles said brokers estimated the actual cost of the luxury penthouse unit at P26.68 million.






Taxpayers’ assistance

by A. L. T. Villas


Manila, Philippines – To encourage its constituents to pay their taxes on time, the Makati City government announced that it will accommodate business owners and real property taxpayers beyond regular working hours and on weekends. Makati Mayor Jejomar Erwin S. Binay Jr. said the extended operation of the Business Permits Office and the Real Property Tax Division will be until January 20 while 14 satellite payment centers in the barangays will also be opened on scheduled dates to accept realty tax payments.






MMDA issues traffic advisory for Black Nazarene procession

by PIA Press Release


MAKATI CITY, January 7 (PIA) -- In connection with the grand procession of the Black Nazarene of Quiapo on Monday, January 9, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) in coordination with the City of Manila issues the following traffic advisory: Route of Grand Procession of Black Nazarene / Closure Areas: Route from Quirino Grandstand (Rizal Park), right Katigbak Drive thru P. Burgos, left Taft Ave(P.Burgos) thru McArthur Bridge, right Palanca, thru under Quezon Bridge, left Quezon Blvd, right Arlegui, right Fratenal, right Vergara. left Duque de Alba, left Castillejos, left Farneclo, right Arlegui, left Nepomuceno, left Aguila, right Carcer, right Hidalgo thru Plaza del Carmen, left Bilibid Viejo thru Puyat, left Guzman. right Hidlago. left Barbosa, right Globo de Oro thru under Quezon Bridge, right Palanca, right Villalobos thru Palza Miranda to Quiapo Chruch. Affected Areas During Procession and Expect Heavy Traffic: 1. Stretch of Roxas Blvd/Bonifacio Drive from Anda Circle to TM Kalaw NB and SB Lane. 2.SB of Quezon Blvd. from Recto to Palanca (subway-Isetan Recto) 3. Stretch of Lerma from P.Campa to Quezon Blvd. 4. Taft Ave/ Finance (WB Lane) 5. Lagusnilad / P.Burgos (WB Lane ) 6. P.Burgos / Taft Ave (Freedom Triangle NB Lane) 7. Villegas / N.A Lopez 8. 25th Street / Bonifacio Drive (SB) Closure of Roads to Traffic will be in effect as the procession approach the affected areas. Road Closure: - At 4:00 a.m., January 9, 2012 SB Lane of Quezon Blvd. (Quiapo), from Andalucia / Fugoso to Plaza Miranda and España / P.Campa / Lerma shall be closed to traffic for Public Utility Vehicles only. - At 5:00 a.m., total Closure for All types of Vehicles shall be Implemented. Re-Routing of Vehicles: 1. All vehicles coming from Quezon City using the stretch of España shall turn right P.Campa, left Andalucia, right Fugoso, left T.Mupua to point of destination. 2.All PUJ/ light vehicles coming to España and intending to proceed to South Pier Zone turn Nicanor Reyes, right Recto straight to JAS, left Riena Regente take Jones Bridge, right Magallanes Drive to point of destination. 3. All vehicles coming from Northern Part of Manila intending to utilize the stretch of Bonifacio Drive SB shall turn right Roberto S. Oca St., left D6. All PUJ'S plying Monumento-Gasak-Recto intending to utilize Andalucia thru Recto shall turn right Fugoso, right Oroqueta to point of origin. 4. All Vehicles coming from Southern Part of Manila intending to utilize the stretch of P.Burgos shall take TM Kalaw, left Taft Ave, right Ayala to Ayala Bridge to point of destination. 5. Private Vehicles coming from Southern Part of Manila intending to utilize the NB of Roxas Blvd shall turn right Quirino Ave and take Nagtahan Bridge to destination. 7. All Vehicles coming from Legarda shall turn right Recto or left Mendiola to point of destination. 8. All Heavy Vehicles/ Cargo Trucks coming from the South shall take Pres., Osmeña, right Pres. Quirino to Nagtahan via AH Lacson to Capulong (vise-versa). 9. Other motorist intending to proceed to North of Manila or South of Manila shall advise to utilize the stretch of LAcson to NAgtahan (vise-versa) or to utilize stretch of Road 10 to Roxas Blvd. (Vise-versa) to point of destination. 10. All Buses coming from Eastern part of Manila particularly G-Liner / RRCG utilizing Legarda shall turn right Palanca St., to Quiapo Ilalim to point of origin. 11. All Buses coming from Taft Avenue going to Fairview shall turn right to UN Ave up to Otis, left Nagtahan go straight Lacson, right España to point of destination. 12. All Buses coming from Southern part of Manila (Laguan and Cavite) utilizing Taft Avenue Are Not Allowedelgado, Left Bonifacio Drive ( for Port Area offices) or shall take right to A. Soriano to Magallanes Drive, right P.Burgos, go straight to Lagusnilad to Taft Ave. to enter from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM and Allowed Only up to Remedios Street right San Marcelino back to point of origin. Meanwhile, traffic is already heavy within the vicinity of Quiapo Church as devotees have been trooping to the place since early yesterday . (PIA-NCR/MMDA/RJB/LFB)

Makati to spend P35M DILG incentive on new medical, emergency response equipment

by Jerome Carlo R. Paunan


MAKATI CITY, Jan 6 (PIA) -- The local government will prioritize the purchase of new medical and emergency response equipment with its P35 million incentive granted by the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG). In a statement, Makati Mayor Jejomar Erwin S. Binay said that the city received the incentive after passing the DILG criteria for the 2011 Seal of Good Housekeeping. Of the amount, P5 million has been allocated for the purchase of an ultrasound machine, while the remaining P30 million will be used for the expansion of the Makati Risk-Sensitive Urban Redevelopment Project (MRSURP). “The seal of good housekeeping serves to affirm that we are on track in harnessing information technology to enhance our systems and processes towards promoting greater transparency and efficiency,” Binay said. The mayor also cited the institutionalization of participatory and strategic development planning from the city bureaucracy down to the barangay level. “From the planning stage, we allow our key stakeholders to participate in the formulation of programs and projects as well as relevant policies. This has also resulted in well-coordinated and aligned programs of action from the grassroots up, as well as timely implementation and effective budgeting of resources,” he said. This year, the city government will expand the implementation of the MRSURP from its pilot site, Barangay Rizal, to cover other barangays comprising the city’s Eastside Cluster, including East Rembo, Comembo and Pembo, and West Rembo of the Northeast Cluster. The MRSURP is part of the “Mainstreaming Disaster Risk Reduction in Megacities Project in Metro Manila.” It aims to continuously engage city officials in mainstreaming sound disaster risk reduction practices within their basic governance functions and operations, such as land use planning and urban development. (ICRD/RJB/JCP-PIA NCR)

Makati New Year event generates donations for 'Sendong' victims

by Jerome Carlo R. Paunan


MAKATI CITY, Jan. 5 (PIA) -- The local government on Tuesday said that donations poured in for the victims of ‘Sendong’ in Cagayan de Oro and Iligan cities during the New Year’s Eve Countdown held in the city. Makati Mayor Jejomar Erwin S. Binay said that in a span of eight hours from 5:00 p.m. to midnight on Saturday, a total of P43,095 in cash was turned over as donation together with two sacks, 26 big plastic bags, 18 assorted packs and a balikbayan box containing used clothes, blankets, jackets, mosquito nets, footwear, assorted canned goods, and bottled water. “We greatly appreciate the enthusiastic response of kind-hearted people to our call for help to victims of typhoon Sendong. Even in the midst of the celebration, they went out of their way to share to those in need,” Binay said. Aside from Makati residents, donors from Quezon City, Caloocan, Pasig, Pasay, and even foreigners responded to the appeal of Mayor Binay for assistance to Sendong survivors. The mayor earlier aired an appeal to the countdown crowd and revellers to bring donations for Sendong victims. Since Dec. 21, the city had been accepting clothes, sweaters or jackets, blankets, and mosquito nets, and other donations in kind. On top of this, Makati released P4 million in cash for the victims in Cagayan de Oro and Iligan. Acting city administrator Marjorie A. de Veyra said reclassification and repacking of donated clothings and food items are continuously being done, and the goods are being readied for transport to the recipients. De Veyra handled the Makati relief operations for Sendong victims immediately following the tragedy last Dec. 17, where they distributed 20,000 bags containing rice, bottled water, and canned goods to about 10,000 families in Cagayan de Oro, 5,000 families in Iligan, and some 5,000 families in Dumaguete. She cited the zealous cooperation of city employees and Makati residents who heeded the call for help to somehow aid the survivors in coping with the tragedy. (ICRD/RJB/JCP-PIA NCR)

Burglars steal over P120,000 worth of laptops in Makati condo

by gmanetwork.com


Burglars forcibly entered the condominium unit of a Chinese tenant in Makati City and took laptops worth P120,000 before dawn on Wednesday.

The suspects used a knife to force open the door of the unit of Kim Chang Hee at Triumph Condominium along Dela Costa Street, radio dzBB's Roland Bola reported.

The investigation showed that two men posed as tenants of the condominium to gain access to the floor where Kim’s unit was located.

Once there, they used a knife to destroy the lock of the door and took two laptop computers worth P120,000.

The report said the two wore bonnets when they gained entry to the victim’s unit.

The police are still investigating the incident. - VVP, GMA News

Metro university earns ISO seal

by PIA Press Release


MAKATI CITY, Jan. 3 (PIA) -- The city-owned and managed University of Makati (UMak) has earned the coveted ISO (International Organization for Standardization) 9001:2008 Certification from SGS Philippines, becoming the first local university in the country to be ISO-certified. In a report to Makati Mayor Jejomar Erwin Binay, university president Tomas Lopez said UMak has successfully passed the Stage 2 Audit of the (ISO) 9001-2008 conducted on December 12-13, last year, at the university. For his part, Binay lauded the UMak administration and teaching staff for doing the city proud with this latest achievement. “The people and the city government of Makati are very grateful to the administration and faculty of the University of Makati for their staunch commitment to excellence. With its ISO certification, UMak becomes a veritable world-class institution of higher learning,” Binay said. According to Lopez, SGS Philippines will be issuing an Official Certificate of Accreditation from SGS Philippines after SGS Geneva approves its recommendation based on the UMak’s ISO accreditation. Lopez said UMak passed the ISO certification criteria for the following processes: Admission, Registration, Release of Grades, and Issuance of Transcript of Records through the effort of the core process owners and their heads. In its audit report, SGS Philippines also noted as a best practice the university’s Quality Management System method of tracking the status of objectives, including monitoring and data analysis. Also incorporated in the UMAK certification were its support offices, including the Human Resource Development Office, General Services Office, Supply and Property Maintenance Office, and Information Technology Center. The university’s total enrolment stood at 14,537 for the second semester, school year 2011 to 2012, with a 10 percent increase from the first semester of the same school year. In recent years, UMak has registered above average passing rates in licensure examinations in Accountancy, Nursing and Education. The UMak College of Nursing has been ranked 9th overall among the top nursing schools in the country after consistently producing board top-notchers. The university has also registered 100 percent employability of its graduates in Building and Property Management, Industrial Facilities Technology, Purchasing and Supply Management, and Digital Arts. This is largely attributed to its collaboration with industry players under its Dualized Education System that effectively combines classroom instruction with on-the-job training. Earlier, the city’s premier health care institution, Ospital ng Makati, also earned its ISO 9001:2008 certification after the SGS audit of the hospital’s Quality Management System. ISO is an international network of the national standards institutes of over 150 countries that certifies the adherence of government and private enterprises to global standards of excellence. SGS, on the other hand, is the world’s leading inspection, verification, testing, and certification company. (ICRD/RJB/JCP-PIA NCR)

The rise of a new Makati through Ayala Land initiative

Green investment


MANILA, Philippines — Makati City, the financial hub of the Philippines today, has risen from humble beginnings, from what used to be the home of an old Manila airport into what is recognized today as the country’s most thriving, dynamic, and unrivaled capital for business, commerce, and leisure.

As the prime example of a highly urban city, Makati has constantly supported and promoted environment friendly and energy-efficient initiatives, which eventually led to the city being hailed as Southeast Asia’s First Energy-Efficient City by international environmental organization Greenpeace for its programs targeted at reducing its carbon footprint.

It has been one of the pioneering cities that presented its detailed sustainability masterplan during the recent 1st National Convergence for Climate Sustainable Communities.

Makati City has truly taken to heart its commitment to environmentally sustainable programs through its citywide ordinances and projects, such as the use of e-Jeepneys and other eco-efficient buildings and structures. Through these initiatives and more, the city hopes to become the benchmark for a highly urban city that has optimized scare resources to achieve eco-sustainability.

“The use of eJeepneys as primary mode of transport will save the national government at least R10 billion annually,” said Red Constantino, executive director of the Institute for Climate and Sustainable Cities (ICSC). “Sustainability is important, but what is more significant is sustainable economic development. Revenues can come from different areas, such as in battery charging, fleet operations, and many more.”

“Ayala Land, as Makati City’s partner in its eco-efficient initiative, has always espoused the cause of the environment through intelligently masterplanned developments that adhere to global standards of energy efficiency and sustainable living,” said Erick Calupe, Associate Director for Residential Startup Properties and Sustainability Officer of the Ayala Property Management Corporation.

Ayala Land underscores its commitment to the Makati City government initiative by the local government as it embarks on a R20-billion redevelopment project in Makati City. This will be translated to various projects aimed at improving the Makati Central Business District (MCBD) landscape through projects like a streamlined mass transport system, pedestrian-friendly infrastructures, and efficient lighting and district cooling system to be utilized in Glorietta and Greenbelt within the Ayala Center, respectively.

“In Makati, for example, business and retail establishments, as well as residences, hospitals, and schools, are located close to each other so that people are encouraged to walk around the city and reduce their carbon emissions through lessening their car usage,” said Calupe.

Combating the effects of climate change takes more than just a commitment to energy efficiency. For the city of Makati, it’s all about leading a more aggressive movement and having teamwork with key stakeholders from various sectors, such as Ayala Land.

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