Makati City News November 2013

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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.

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

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

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

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

WHY??

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

MAKATI TEAMS

By: Anna Liza Villas-Alavaren


The Makati city government will deploy additional teams from Makati Rescue and Philippine K-9 Search and Rescue Foundation (PH-K9) to the Visayas Region to assist in retrieving the bodies of victims under rubble left by super-typhoon “Yolanda.” Makati City Mayor Jejomar Erwin Binay said the two search teams, each accompanied by a trained search dog, will be leaving on Saturday, on board a Philippine Air Force C-130 plane that will be landing in Tacloban City. Sixteen rescue personnel, four from PH-K9 and 12 from Makati Rescue, will bring PH-K9 Belgian Malinois “Drena” and a German Shepherd search dog of a PH-K9 member named “Ash.” They will bring a vibrascope (a device with camera and microphone that can be inserted through small spaces into the debris), chainsaws, and other hydraulic equipment. (Anna Liza Villas-Alavaren)






Makati completes 3rd leg of DRRM info caravan

By: pia.gov.ph


MAKATI CITY, Nov. 29 (PIA) -- The local government, through the Makati Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO), recently completed the third leg of the Makati DRRM Information Caravan to increase awareness of barangay residents on the specific hazards that affect their areas and inform them of measures and activities necessary to lessen the impact of such hazards.

In a statement, Mayor Jejomar Erwin S. Binay expressed his satisfaction over the number of participants who joined the information caravan. “The DRRM Information Caravan is the first of a series of activities that aim to inform and educate the people at the grassroots level. We have to go to the barangays to reach out to the people and tell them about the hazards they face daily,” he said.

Binay also said that promoting a high level of preparedness among residents will help save lives and minimize the number of casualties in times of calamitous events.

The information caravan used the talk show format in Filipino language, where the emcee would ask questions to be answered by concerned departments or agencies. The campaign aims to make residents aware of the specific hazards that affect their barangays, inform them of the causes, and what they should do before, during and after disasters. The city government targets awareness, capacity building and preparedness of the people.

The third leg of the information caravan was held last November 14 at Barangay East Rembo Covered Court for the Eastside Cluster Barangays East Rembo, Comembo and West Rembo. Around 160 residents attended the event that focused on the primary hazard in the area, which is earthquake. The West Valley Fault transects five barangays in the eastern part of District II. Other hazards included in the information campaign were flooding, landslide and fire.

The first DRRM Information Caravan attended by around 180 participants, including students from Colegio De San Ildefonso–Makati campus in Pio del Pilar, was held on July 30 at Barangay Bangkal Sports Complex. Participants in this campaign that centered on flooding came from flood-prone Westside Cluster Barangays, namely, Bangkal, Pio del Pilar and San Isidro. The other hazards discussed with the participants were fire and earthquake. The series of information campaigns kicked off during the celebration of the National Disaster Consciousness Month.

The second leg of the Information Caravan was conducted for the Northwest Cluster Barangays which are Tejeros, Carmona, Kasilawan and Singkamas. Held at Barangay Kasilawan Multi-Purpose Hall on October 2, it was attended by more than 60 residents. The primary hazard taken up there was fire, followed by flooding and earthquake.

Also included in the discussion were the early warning system for flooding, types of flooding, when to evacuate, rules and procedures inside evacuation centers, climate change, preparedness, illnesses that may come from floodwaters, the programs and projects of the city government and the barangay officials, how to contact the city government, among others.

There were also demonstrations on the preparation of the 72-hour emergency kit and doing the ‘duck, cover and hold’ procedure during an earthquake, a video presentation on the different hazards and capacity building, and video presentation by the fire department on actual fire incidents. A game portion was also held wherein prizes were given to the participants who gave correct answers.

The Makati DRRM Information Caravan Team Members that participated in the planning and/or acted as resource persons came from the following offices: Department of Engineering and Public Works, Makati Social Welfare Department, Makati DRRM Office, Human Resource Development Office–Training, Makati Health Department, Information and Community Relations Department (ICRD), Makati Command Control and Communication Center, Liga ng mga Barangay, Makati Rescue, Department of Environmental Services, Urban Development Department, Bureau of Fire Protection–Makati, and Red Cross-Makati.

The officials and staff of the involved barangays actively participated in the campaigns by providing inspirational messages or acting as resource persons, and preparing the venue. Senior Advisor to the Mayor Violeta Seva attended the first and third campaigns, while DILG was present during the kick off campaign. The Corporate Communication Center of University of Makati and its partners within the university, and the ICRD had covered the three legs of the information caravan. (ICRD/RJB/JCP/PIA-NCR)

Makati suspends anti-smoke belching ops over extort complaints

By: ELR, GMA News


Makati City this week suspended its anti-smoke belching operations over accusations of extortion by aides enforcing the program.

City Mayor Jejomar Erwin Binay Jr. also cited complaints of failure by the enforcers to comply with the implementing guidelines of the Clean Air Act.

“The city government does not tolerate abusive law enforcers. We have suspended ASBU operations to make way for a thorough investigation on the complaints we have been receiving from a growing number of motorists venting their frustrations on social media,” Binay said.

He added the anti-smoke belching operations in the city will remain suspended until the investigation is completed.

A post on the Makati City government's website said the complaints had included: - improper conduct of roadside emission testing, with anti-smoke belching unit enforcers allegedly stepping too hard and long on the accelerator - cases of extortion and harassment - traffic jams arising from the conduct of ASBU operations in the city - alleged indifference to smoke-belching public utility jeepneys and buses.

In the meantime, Binay instructed Makati Pollution and Control Office (MPCO) chief Ricardo Suarez to move up the scheduled annual training program for enforcers from the second week of December.

Also, he ordered Suarez to subject the enforcers to intensive training while their operations are suspended.

The mayor also directed City Administrator Atty. Eleno Mendoza to hold the probe. He also asked the public to file formal complaints with the Mendoza's office.

“Motorists or the riding public who may have complaints against our MPCO enforcers comprising our local anti-smoke belching unit may lodge a formal complaint with the Office of the City Administrator,” he said.

The suspension stemmed from complaints posted on the city’s Twitter accounts @MakatiTraffic and @MakatiInfo, as well as on Facebook and blog sites.

On the other hand, Binay appealed to motorists to be responsible and make sure their vehicles are well-maintained.

The Makati City Vehicle Emission Control Code was enacted through City Ordinance No. 2004-032.

Under the ordinance, a first offense nets a P1,000 fine, a second offense P2,000, and a third offense P3,000.

"In all cases, the driver’s license and/or vehicle license plate will be confiscated and will only be released to the owner when the vehicle passes the emission test," the city government said.

Binay suspends anti-smoke belching drive in Makati amid extort complaints

By: Philippine News Agency | InterAksyon.com


MANILA, Philippines - Makati City Mayor Jejomar Erwin S. Binay ordered on Tuesday the suspension of the anti-smoke belching operations of the Makati Pollution and Control Office (MPCO) in light of mounting complaints from motorists over alleged cases of extortion and related issues.

Another complaint of motorists is the alleged failure of enforcers to comply with the implementing guidelines of the Makati City Vehicle Emission Control Code and the Clean Air Act or Republic Act No. 8749.

In a statement, Binay directed the Office of the City Administrator, headed by Atty. Eleno Mendoza, to conduct a thorough investigation of the complaints, and urged the public to file formal complaints with the said office so that their concerns may be properly addressed.

“Motorists or the riding public who may have complaints against our MPCO enforcers comprising our local anti-smoke belching unit may lodge a formal complaint with the Office of the City Administrator,” Binay said.

The mayor issued the suspension order on ASBU operations after learning of several complaints posted on the city’s official Twitter accounts, @MakatiTraffic and @MakatiInfo, as well as on Facebook and blogspots.

“The city government does not tolerate abusive law enforcers. We have suspended ASBU operations to make way for a thorough investigation on the complaints we have been receiving from a growing number of motorists venting their frustrations on social media,” Binay said.

The mayor said anti-smoke belching operations in the city will remain suspended until the issues have been thoroughly investigated and resolved.

He also directed MPCO chief Ricardo Suarez to move up the scheduled annual training program for enforcers, previously held on the second week of December, and subject them to intensive training while their operations are suspended.

Binay, however, called on motorists to be responsible citizens and see to it that their vehicles are well-maintained to contribute to the advocacy for cleaner air and a healthier environment.

“Let us not forget that the real intent of the Clean Air Act and all government activities emanating from it is to reduce air pollution, especially in highly urbanized areas like Makati City, where over half a million motor vehicles, mostly running on fossil fuel, ply the road network daily,” Binay said.

The mayor said that the stringent implementing guidelines of the law reflect the seriousness and urgency of minimizing carbon emissions that contribute to global warming and the increasingly vicious weather disturbances in the country and around the world attributed to climate change.

Among the issues frequently raised by complainants was the improper conduct of roadside emission testing, particularly ASBU enforcers allegedly stepping too hard and long on the accelerator.

Cases of extortion and harassment were also aired by netizens, as well as traffic jams arising from the conduct of ASBU operations in the city. Another complaint was their seeming indifference to smoke-belching public utility jeepneys and buses.

The Makati City Vehicle Emission Control Code was enacted through City Ordinance No. 2004-032. It sets emissions standards for motor vehicles and provides corresponding penalties for violations, as follows: First offense, P1,000; second offense, P2,000; and third offense, P3,000. In all cases, the driver’s license and/or vehicle license plate will be confiscated and will only be released to the owner when the vehicle passes the emission test.

The MPCO is the designated arm of the Makati Public Safety Department (also known as MAPSA) tasked to enforce the vehicle emission standards in the said ordinance. At present, it has 31 enforcers tasked to conduct anti-smoke belching operations.

According to Suarez, Makati’s ASBU teams have been conducting their operations based on the implementing guidelines of R.A. 8749 issued by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

Nonetheless, he assured that his office will fully cooperate in the investigation so that the issues raised will be resolved and addressed promptly.

Makati suspends anti-belching operations

By: Mike Frialde


MANILA, Philippines - Following allegations of extortion by those tasked to implement it, Makati Mayor Jejomar Erwin Binay on Tuesday ordered the suspension of anti-smoke belching operations in the city.

In ordering the suspension of anti-smoke belching operations by the Makati Pollution and Control Office (MPCO), Binay also ordered City Adminsitrator Eleno Mendoza to conduct a probe of the complaints.

Aside from allegations of extortion by some MPCO personnel, there are also allegations that MPCO personnel failed to comply with the implementing guidelines of the local vehicle emission code and the Clean Air Act or Republic Act 8749.

Binay called on the public to file their complaints with the Makati Office of City Administrator against erring MPCO personnel.

“Motorists or the riding public who may have complaints against our MPCO enforcers comprising our local anti-smoke belching unit may lodge a formal complaint with the Office of the City Administrator,” Binay said.

Binay issued the suspension order of anti-smoke belching operations (ASBU) after learning of several complaints posted on the city’s official Twitter accounts, @MakatiTraffic and @MakatiInfo, as well as on Facebook and on blogs.

“The city government does not tolerate abusive law enforcers. We have suspended ASBU operations to make way for a thorough investigation on the complaints we have been receiving from a growing number of motorists venting their frustrations on social media,” Binay said.

Binay said anti-smoke belching operations in the city will remain suspended until the issues have been thoroughly investigated and resolved.

Binay also ordered MPCO chief Ricardo Suarez to move up the scheduled annual training program for enforcers, previously held second week of December, and subject them to intensive training while their operations are suspended.

Binay, however, called on motorists to be responsible citizens and see to it that their vehicles are well-maintained to contribute to the advocacy for cleaner air and a healthier environment.

“Let us not forget that the real intent of the Clean Air Act and all government activities emanating from it is to reduce air pollution especially in highly urbanized areas like Makati City, where over half a million motor vehicles, mostly running on fossil fuel, ply the road network daily,” he said.

Binay said that the stringent implementing guidelines of the law reflect the seriousness and urgency of minimizing carbon emissions that contribute to global warming and the increasingly vicious weather disturbances in the country and around the world attributed to climate change.

Among the issues frequently raised by complainants was the improper conduct of roadside emission testing, particularly ASBU enforcers allegedly stepping too hard and long on the accelerator. Cases of extortion and harassment were also aired by netizens, as well as traffic jams arising from the conduct of ASBU operations in the city. Another complaint was their seeming indifference to smoke-belching public utility jeepneys and buses.

The Makati City Vehicle Emission Control Code was enacted through City Ordinance No. 2004-032. It sets emissions standards for motor vehicles and provides corresponding penalties for violations, as follows: first offense, P1,000; second offense, P2,000; and third offense, P3,000. In all cases, the driver’s license and/or vehicle license plate will be confiscated and will only be released to the owner when the vehicle passes the emission test.

The MPCO is the designated arm of the Makati Public Safety Department (also known as MAPSA) tasked to enforce the vehicle emission standards in the ordinance. At present, it has 31 enforcers tasked to conduct anti-smoke belching operations.

According to Suarez, Makati’s ASBU teams have been conducting their operations based on the implementing guidelines of R.A. 8749 issued by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). Nonetheless, he assured the public that his office will fully cooperate in the investigation so that the issues raised will be resolved and addressed promptly. - Mike Frialde

Early Yuletide treat

By: Anna Liza V. Alavaren


Public schoolchildren and their families in Makati City are set to receive an early Christmas treat. The Makati City government announced that it will be giving a bagful of groceries as Christmas gift to over 97,000 preschool to high school students, including K-to-12 students.

“Each “Pamasko” bag will contain food items, mostly energy-packed foods and drinks, that will provide students much-needed nourishment for their healthy growth,” said Makati City Mayor Jejomar Erwin S. Binay. The Makati City Council has approved City Ordinance No. 2013- A-020 appropriating P97,359,000 for the project that seeks to bring Christmas cheer to the students and their families. The amount will be taken from the city’s savings in the 2012 budget, Binay said. Binay said the Center for Health Development of the Department of Health (CHD-DoH) has expressed support to the program, strongly endorsing the proposed contents of each Pamasko bag for their nutritional value. In his letter to Binay, Dr. Eduardo Janairo, regional director of the CHD-DoH, congratulated the city government for spearheading the project, stating that the gifts will “provide students nutrients for their increasing physiological needs as adolescents.

Metro cities help Leyte

By: Manila Standard Today


THE Adopt-A-Municipality program of various local government units in Metro Manila is now in full swing to assist in the restoration efforts of their typhoon-affected counterparts in Eastern Visayas.

Metropolitan Manila Development Authority Chairman Francis Tolentino has said they have committed to “stay for at least one year to provide technical and local governance assistance.”

He disclosed that the cities of Quezon and Makati, through their local councils, already allotted P50 million as assistance to their respective adopted LGUs.

Navotas City has adopted the town of Laua-an while Mandaluyong City will help Tanauan, especially in the construction of its municipal hall. These towns are both in Leyte but Tanauan is reported to be the worst-hit area within the province together with Palo.

Valenzuela City will adopt Basey in Samar while Taguig City will help Guiuan of Eastern Samar.

Also joining the Adopt-A-Municipality program are the cities of Muntinlupa and Paranaque.

Fundraising concert

By: Mandy Navasero


Chino Gutierrez will be showcased in the solo violin concert, “Revelry: Live, Love, Dance,” on Nov. 30 at the Francisco Santiago Hall, BDO Tower I, Paseo de Roxas, Makati City. He will play the music of, among others, Eugene Ysaye, Cesar Franck, Igor Stravinsky and Antonin Dvorak. The 23-year-old violin virtuoso will also perform Jose Rizal’s little-heard composition, “La Deportacion,” inspired by his exile in Dapitan, where he set up an eye clinic for the poor. Chino will be accompanied by pianist Corazon Pineda Kabayao. The concert is a fundraiser to enable the former child prodigy to fly back to Munich to complete his Bachelor of Music degree at the State Academy of Music and Theatre. Chino has been winning awards since he began his training at age 7 under Coke Bolipata. His mentors include Olga Voitova-Bloch and Christopn Poppen. Conductor Oscar Yatco considers him the Cecile Licad of the violin. Atmosphere His vision is for classical violin-playing to become a lucrative career in the Philippines, so local practitioners don’t have to go elsewhere to make a living. To support Chino’s cause, please watch his concert or donate to Joaquin Maria S. Gutierrez’s Metrobank (Roces ave., Quezon City) account number 481-3-48109963-4. If you live abroad, the Swift code is MBTCPHMM, or call Lambie Gutierrez at 218-1864 or 0915-1892998.

  • * *

Join our amazing Batanes Photo Safari on Dec. 27-30. E-mail luzamandolina@yahoo.com, or call 896-3208. The Safari also offers trips to Lake Sebu-General Santos-Sarangani and the Moriones Festival in Marinduque.

Makati gov't sends relief goods to 35 Visayas towns

By: Mike Frialde


MANILA, Philippines - Relief items for victims of typhoon Yolanda from the Makati City government and the Office of the Vice Mayor have so far reached 15 towns in Leyte, eight towns in Biliran and 12 towns in Samar.

Makati Mayor Jejomar Erwin Binay on Friday said the city government on Thursday sent one bus to assist in the Oplan Salubong of the Metro Manila Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council.

"We could only spare one unit as other city-owned buses are being used for the ongoing transfer of recent fire victims to relocation areas and for the transport of relief goods,” he said.

Binay said the city government will also lend some payloaders in addition to the five dump trucks sent earlier to Tacloban City for use in ongoing relief and recovery operations.

“We are working closely with the Office of the Vice President in undertaking relief operations and extending other forms of assistance to affected localities and to national agencies tasked with relief, recovery and rehabilitation,” he said.

To date, relief packs containing rice, canned goods and noodles have been sent to 15 towns of Leyte. These are Palo, Tanauan, Tolosa, Dulag, Mayorga, MacArthur, Abuyog, Alangalang, Sta. Fe, Capoocan, Julita, La Paz, Burauen, Dagami and Tabontabon.

The next batch of relief goods will be deployed today to the following towns in Samar: Borongan, Maydolong, Balangkayan, Llorente, Hernani, MacArthur, Buenavista, Salcedo, Mercedes, Guiuan, Giporlos and Quinapondan.

Earlier, the Makati City Council approved a P50-million allocation for relief assistance to typhoon-ravaged local government units in the Visayas Region, many of which are sister-localities of Makati.

The city government has mobilized its workforce, led by the Makati Social Welfare Department (MSWD), in the preparation of relief goods and materials in the covered court of Barangay Poblacion. MSWD and other city personnel have also been lending manpower and technical assistance to relief operations led by Leyte Rep. Ferdinand Martin Romualdez at the Valenzuela covered court in Makati.

Donations, in cash or in kind, and volunteers are welcome at the Poblacion Covered Court located along JP Rizal St. in front of Makati Museum and Poblacion Barangay Hall.

City council wants christmas party funds used for relief aid

By: Correspondent Jose Santino S. Bunachita


THE Cebu City Council has approved a resolution to reallocate funds for City Hall’s Christmas party as relief assistance to the typhoon victims in northern Cebu and Eastern Visayas. Councilor Margot Osmeña, who chairs the budget committee, however, said the resolution should not stop City Hall employees from holding parties. Councilor Sisinio Andales agreed, saying the Christmas party should still continue in a “simple way.” “Although the intention (of the resolution) is good, we can’t cancel the spirit of Christmas. Life must go on. City Hall employees are looking forward to it although it should not be so lavish,” he said. Osmeña said employees should instead be encouraged to donate part of their meals allocation to the relief efforts. Each of the 4,066 employees has a P500 allotment for meals on two events – the Cebu City Olympics and the Christmas Party. The full amount would reach at least P2 million. Other councilors, who said they’ve personally visited typhoon-hit towns in northern Cebu, also said the victims should start working and not rely on relief operations. “If you continue to give them (relief goods), you’re promoting mendicancy. It’s not healthy to just give to them,” Councilor Gerry Carillo said. Councilor Michael Ralota said victims should turn tragedy into opportunity to generate money. He suggested that victims be made to cut toppled trees and turn them into charcoa. “We should teach them how to fish instead of just giving them fish,” Ralota said. Mayor Michael Rama earlier said the Christmas party should still push through though it won’t be lavish and extravagant.“The ball is now in the hands of the mayor if he’ll suspend it or not. It’s my prayer that we also follow what other cities have done. We should be in solidarity with the typhoon victims. It’s not appropriate to party at this time,” Dizon said. Dizon cited the cities of Makati, Davao and Talisay that canceled their respective Christmas parties to further help and comfort the typhoon victims. The City Council also approved a resolution to request more transportation for relief goods in typhoon-affected areas.

Makati to distribute P97.3M grocery items to students

By: Mike Frialde


MANILA, Philippines - The Makati City government on Wednesday said it has allotted P97.3 million for the Christmas grocery giveways to the city's 97,000 public school students.

Makati Mayor Jejomar Erwin Binay said each public school student from preschool to high school, including K to 12 students, will be getting one grocery bag as their Christmas gift this December.

Binay said the Makati City Council has approved City Ordinance No. 2013-A-020 appropriating P97,359,000 for the project that seeks to bring Christmas cheer to the students and their families. The amount will be taken from the city’s savings on its 2012 budget, Binay said.

“Each Pamasko bag will contain food items, mostly energy-packed foods and drinks, that will provide students much-needed nourishment for their healthy growth,” Binay said.

Binay also disclosed that the Center for Health Development of the Department of Health (CHD-DOH) has expressed their support to the program, strongly endorsing the proposed contents of each Pamasko bag for their nutritional value.

In his letter to Binay, Dr. Eduardo Janairo, regional director of CHD-DOH, congratulated the city government for spearheading the project, stating that the gifts will “provide students nutrients for their increasing physiological needs as adolescents.”

Janairo also affirmed that the activity does not violate any policies, guidelines and related laws on Infant and Young Child Feeding of the DOH.

Binay wrote Janairo, thanking him and his office for the support and endorsement of the project.

“As always, we assure you that the city government continually strives to promote the health and well-being of the youth, especially our public school students who need proper nutrition to be effective learners,” the mayor said.

“We are spending P1,000 each for our public schoolchildren so everyone will bring home their Pamasko Bags containing food items such as raisins, oatmeal, cheese, choco chips, powdered choco milk, arroz caldo, champorado, milk drink, tonic food drink, crackers, cereals, cookies, bread sticks among others,” Binay said.

Binay added that the Center for Health Department of the Department of Health (CHD-DOH) expressed its support to the program and strongly endorses the planned distribution of the Pamasko Bags to the public school students.

Makati mayor extends sympathy to slain traffic enforcer

By: pia.gov.ph


MAKATI CITY, Nov. 19 (PIA) -- Mayor Jejomar Erwin Binay has condemned the killing of a traffic enforcer of the Makati Public Safety Department (MAPSA) who was shot in cold blood by one of two men riding in tandem on a motorcycle recently in front of the gate of Mapua Institute of Technology on Metropolitan Avenue.

“We are saddened by the cold-blooded murder of an unarmed law enforcer who was just doing his job. I have ordered the Makati police to prioritize the resolution of the case and bring the perpetrators to justice,” Binay said in a statement.

The mayor also extended his sympathies to the family of the slain enforcer, Dave T. Balgos, who left behind his wife and two young sons aged 10 and 13.

The 36-year old victim was reportedly heading to his assigned post at Makati Avenue on board his service motorcycle, along with two colleagues also riding their own motorcycles, after reporting to the MAPSA office at around 6:00 am on Friday, Nov. 15.

At the intersection of Metropolitan Avenue and Ayala Avenue Extension, Balgos saw two men riding in tandem on a motorcycle who violated a traffic signal, passing through a red light, and he immediately flagged them down. However, the duo ignored him and sped off towards Metropolitan Avenue, whereupon he gave chase while his two colleagues also followed suit. Approaching Nicanor Garcia Street, the suspects suddenly stopped in front of Mapua and the back rider shot Balgos, hitting him on the right armpit. The suspects then immediately fled towards Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue.

According to one of his buddies, Allan Acebedo, Balgos was able to walk a few steps back towards his motorcycle before they reached him and rushed him to the Makati Medical Center. Balgos was eventually declared dead at around 7:05am that day.

Co-workers expressed sadness over the death of Balgos, who had been in service for seven years. They recounted how he had been worried about his wife and younger son who were in Pontevedra, Capiz when typhoon Yolanda struck and they have had no communication since then.

Binay has also pledged to extend assistance to the family of Balgos who was a resident of Brgy. Cembo, Makati.

The victim’s remains have been brought to Funeraria Pilipinas in Makati for autopsy. (ICRD/RJB/JCP/PIA-NCR)







UP cites Makati’s infant screening

By: Manila Standard Today


Makati City has been cited by the University of the Philippines Manila-National Institutes for Health for its best practices in the Newborn Screening Program at three lying-in clinics in the villages of Bangkal, East Rembo and Guadalupe Nuevo.

According to Dr. Diana Jocelyn Vaño, officer-in-charge of the Makati Health Department, the newborn screening availment has increased since the program was launched in July 2006.

“All three city-run lying-in clinics have achieved over 90 percent newborn screening rates to date, with Bangkal and East Rembo sustaining it for two consecutive years, thus garnering the Exemplary Achiever’s Award from UP Manila-NIH,” she said.

Makati Mayor Jejomar Erwin Binay lauded the MHD and village staff along with UP Manila-NIH.

Dr. Elizabeth Medina, physician of East Rembo Lying-in and newborn screening coordinator of MHD, and Maria Lourdes Puson, nurse at Bangkal Lying-in, accepted the awards of the three birthing facilities at rites held in Heritage Hotel Manila.

Implementing the Newborn Screening Act of 2004, Makati started with 18.87 percent out of total deliveries in 20015, rising to 98.89 percent in 2011, 99.58 in 2012, and 99.89 to date.

The method involves monitoring infants for six treatable diseases caused by congenital metabolic disorders that can cause mental retardation or death: Congenital Hypothyrodism, Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia, Galactosemia, Phenylketonuria, G6PD deficiency, and Maple Syrup Urine.

Staff trained by UP Manila-NIH on blood collection and processing, extract a few drops of blood from a baby’s heel using a special filter card. Blood specimens are sent to UP Manila-NIH for testing. The results are usually sent back to the screening facility after seven to 14 working days. Parents of babies with positive results are immediately contacted and referred to the UP Manila-NIH for confirmatory testing.

Newborn screening is covered by PhilHealth, so members can avail of the service free of charge at the city-run birthing clinics. Non-PhilHealth members are charged a fee of P600.

Rockwell Land reservation sales likely to reach P13B

By: VG Cabuag


ROCKWELL Land Corp., a Lopez-controlled property developer targeting the upscale market, expects to end the year with P13 billion in reservation sales as the company continues to develop projects in Makati City and in Cebu.

Nestor Padilla, company president and chief executive officer, said the company will focus on the Proscenium development in Rockwell Center in Makati and also in a 3-hectare property in Lahug, Cebu.

The Proscenium will have four residential towers and one office building, called the Iconique Tower, that will start construction by next year. The estimated development for its office tower will cost about P5 billion, he said.

“We are very happy with sales in Proscenium as it remains on track, with the first three of the development’s five towers almost 50 percent sold out,” Padilla said.

Its project in Cebu, on the other hand, will contribute revenues of P3.3 billion and will require an estimated land and development cost of P2.5 billion.

The company last week has listed its P5-billion retail bonds at the Philippine Dealing and Exchange Corp. Its 7.5-year paper fetched an interest rate of 5.0932 percent.

“The positive reception we have received from the investing public and institutions has been encouraging and has supported our current plans for expansion,” Padilla said.

Rockwell reported a net income of P923 million for the first nine months of the year, a 31-percent increase from the previous year and total reservation sales for the period already reached P10.9 billion, an increase of 88 percent from last year.

The bulk of the revenues come from residential development projects, such as Edades Tower and Garden Villas in Rockwell Center, the Grove in Ortigas and 205 Santolan in Quezon City.

Rockwell Land has also launched hotel and leisure arm Aruga, which will start operations in 2014.

Aruga’s first project is building serviced apartments in Rockwell Center that will cater to the needs of the growing transient market in Makati City, the company said.

VG Cabuag






Avida opens flagship showroom at Glorietta

By: philstar.com


MANILA, Philippines -Avida Land announces the opening of its flagship showroom at the second floor, Glorietta 4, Ayala Center, Makati City as it aims to make its ever-growing product portfolio more accessible to the public. Strategically situated inside a mall setting and housing Avida’s various projects in one location, the company’s biggest showroom to date makes it easier for prospective clients to learn more about Avida projects and likewise, for property specialists to conveniently assist interested buyers.

Featuring separate nooks that introduce the company’s newest projects, the showroom will allow visitors to view studio, one bedroom and two bedroom model units that can be found on a typical Avida condo development.

“The showroom gives people an idea of what their future Avida home can look like,” says Christopher Maglanoc, Avida Land president. “We want to give them a preview of homes that Avida offers — thoughtfully-designed, located in secure communities and just within reach for young professionals, newlyweds and emerging families.”

Suited for young professionals and urbanites, the studio unit showcases Avida Towers Asten, Avida’s three-tower condo project in Makati that features an edgy modern design and amenities with a unique concept retail area. The one bedroom unit is inspired by Avida’s first vacation home development, Serin West Tagaytay with its modern yet relaxing design that is perfect for family leisure. Ideal for those who need bigger space such as growing families, the two bedroom unit is conceptualized for Avida Towers Altura, the first residential development in Avida’s first large-scale, mixed-use community in Muntinlupa, South Park District.

Antonino Aquino, president of Ayala Land, Inc. (ALI) declares, “We are proud of this latest Avida milestone which showcases its latest product offerings in a very accessible location here in Glorietta.”

The housewarming themed event had all the elements of luck that are believed to bring joy, prosperity, and abundance. To further the “home-sweet-home-experience,” guests enjoyed great food, drinks, and a dessert buffet by Sonja’s Cupcakes. Aside from the invited friends from media, the event was graced by Avida and Ayala Land top executives.

The Avida Showroom Glorietta, located at the second floor, Glorietta 4. It is open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. from Monday to Thursday and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. from Friday to Sunday.







Model killed by American husband

By: Anna Liza Villas-Alavaren & Rizal Obanil


Manila, Philippines – Police arrested an American for mauling to death his wife, a Filipina model, over jealousy inside their condominium unit in Makati City on Wednesday night. Senior Supt. Manuel Lukban, Makati City police chief, identified the suspect as James Edward Moore II, 32. He was apprehended by the guards of Rockwell Amorsolo West condominium in Barangay Oblation after the incident.

The victim, Aiko Baniqued Moore, was pronounced dead on arrival at the Makati Medical Center. “Witnesses stated that the husband beaten up her wife and banged her head on the wall,” Lukban said. Based on the result of the autopsy, Lukban said the victim’s cause of death was hematoma as a result of fractured skull. Police are preparing to file parricide charges against the suspect who was reportedly under the influence of illegal drugs at the time of the incident. The victim’s brother told police investigators that the couple has been married since 2011 and their marriage was on the rocks since the suspect was having an extra-marital affairs and also using drugs. The brother claimed that his sister would call him up whenever the suspect hit her up during their fight.

6 dead, 33 hurt in EDSA loading bay mishap

By: Dennis Datu and Dexter Ganibe, dzMM; Jerome Lantin, ABS-CBN News


MANILA (2nd UPDATE) – At least 6 people died after a bus hit a loading bay along Epifanio delos Santos Avenue (EDSA) in Magallanes, Makati City on Thursday morning.

Makati City Police chief Col. Manuel Lucban Jr. said an Elena Liner Bus (TXN 191) rear-ended an MGP Trans bus (NXV 350) and hit several people at the loading bay of EDSA-Magallanes southbound lane.

Five women and a man who were waiting for a ride died in the crash, a doctor from the Ospital ng Makati who rushed to the scene confirmed. Five of them died on the spot while another one died in the hospital.

Lucban said the Elena Liner bus driver was one of those severely injured in the mishap.

At least 33 were injured in the crash, including bus passengers who sustained bone fractures, according to Makati City Police.

The accident snarled traffic in the area. The bodies of the victims were still in the area and one of the buses has yet to be removed from the road.

As of posting time, only two lanes of the busy thoroughfare were passable.

Makati pledges P10M relief to 'Yolanda' victims

By: : Jerome Carlo Paunan


MAKATI CITY, Nov. 13 (PIA) -- The local government of Makati is preparing to send its rescue team and other forms of assistance, including a P10-million donation to the victims of super typhoon ‘Yolanda’ in the Visayas Region.

In a statement, Makati Mayor Jejomar Erwin S. Binay also offered his sympathy to the victims and said he has requested the City Council to immediately approve the relief efforts.

“On behalf of the city government and the people of Makati, I am extending our deepest sympathy to the typhoon victims in the Visayas who have lost their loved ones, their homes and livelihood. We are convening the City Council for an emergency session to approve our P10 million allocation for relief assistance to devastated areas,” Binay said.

The mayor also said that the city’s rescue team is ready to be deployed to where its help is most needed, and that relief operations will start today at 12 noon at the Poblacion Covered Court. City personnel led by the Makati Social Welfare Department will be in place to prepare relief goods and also accept donations from concerned citizens.

Binay called on Makati residents and the business community to support the city government’s efforts to extend help and alleviate the suffering of fellow Filipinos in the typhoon-ravaged communities in the Visayas.

“We appeal to all our brothers and sisters in Makati, especially those who can spare some food, clothing and other goods, to extend your generosity to the unfortunate victims. Let them know that they are not alone,” Binay said.

Area of ‘carnage’ was not Makati City

By: Joselito SJ. Salgado


This pertains to Mr. Bong Austero’s column in the Manila Standard last October 15 titled “Carnage on Gil Puyat Avenue.”

While we admire Mr. Austero’s candor for environmental protection and the preservation of our natural resources, we would like to clarify that the area he was referring to is not part of Makati, but of Pasay City.

Please be assured that the city government of Makati shares Mr. Austero’s sentiment against indiscriminate cutting of trees. It has been our policy to undertake all possible means to save trees affected by infrastructural projects, just as we have continuously pursued our greening program throughout the city. We merely prune the trees to stimulate growth and to minimize the risk of being felled down during typhoons.

Through our Department of Environmental Services, we have implemented a number of programs to promote a healthier and cleaner environment in the city, which have earned the recognition of national and international organizations.

Makati sends P10M aid for ‘Yolanda’ victims

By: Anna Liza Villas


The Makati City government on Monday has pledged P10-million aid for victims of super typhoon “Yolanda” in the Visayas Region.

“On behalf of the city government and the people of Makati, I am extending our deepest sympathy to the typhoon victims in the Visayas who have lost their loved ones, their homes and livelihood,” said Makati Mayor Jejomar Erwin S. Binay.

Binay said he called for the convening of the City Council members for an emergency session to approve the P10 million allocation for relief assistance to devastated areas.

The mayor also said that the city’s rescue team is ready to be deployed to where its help is most needed, to help in the ongoing rescue and clearing operations in areas that suffered severe devastation wrought.

Moreover, the city government has started accepting donations for Yolanda victims at the Poblacion Covered Court.

City personnel led by the Makati Social Welfare Department will be in place to prepare relief goods and also accept donations from concerned citizens.

Binay called on Makati residents and the business community to support the city government’s efforts to extend help and alleviate the suffering of fellow Filipinos in the typhoon-ravaged communities in the Visayas.

“We appeal to all our brothers and sisters in Makati, especially those who can spare some food, clothing and other goods, to extend your generosity to the unfortunate victims. Let them know that they are not alone,” Binay said.

Digital store gets redesigned

By: lifestyle.inquirer.net


Power Mac Center recently launched its renovated Power Plant Mall store at Rockwell Center, Makati City. Power Mac Center opened its Power Plant Mall store in 2004. The renovated store has an array of Apple products, third-party accessories and reliable service. Power Mac Center marketing director Joey Alvarez said, “located in one of the prime locations in the metropolis, Power Mac Center at Power Plant Mall is a big boost to the company’s pursuit to become the preferred company in providing digital lifestyle experience to Filipino consumers.” The store was redesigned to reflect creativity. “The interiors are a creative hybrid that treats customers to a contemporary experience with a touch of Filipino heritage,” said Alvarez. The new store shows how design can be tapped to transcend time based on the main idea of “Likha,” meaning to create. “Likha” showcases man’s ability to create art that is respectful of the past and significant to the present. The store’s concept seeks relevance to today’s consumers while being respectful of the Filipino culture. It showcases indigenous materials that are a contrast against a ragged and raw cement wall finish—a bold approach to create warmth and feeling of familiarity. Rockwell resident Jayson Ong said, “I don’t have to travel far for my Apple needs.” The Power Plant Mall retail store is among the 16 locations of Power Mac Center in the Philippines. Visit powermaccenter.com.

Makati’s many places of worship

By: Niña P. Calleja


HAVING grown up in a family steeped in the Catholic faith and being the recipient of a Catholic education from elementary all the way to college, I place a lot of value on religion, specifically worship and prayer. I know the importance of being able to find solace and peace in silent prayer and, likewise, the need for communion in participating in religious services and being involved in a community.

Some expat and diplomat friends of mine have asked me where they can go for such worship and community. Being in a predominantly Catholic country, it is easy to find Catholic churches in the Philippines. But if you are a Mormon, a Jew or Greek Orthodox, where do you go? And since we all have to pray one way or the other, I searched for places where other people of religious backgrounds gather and pray or worship in the metropolis.

During one of my afternoon walks around Salcedo and Legaspi villages in Makati, I saw a myriad of places of worship that might be useful to our new expats and diplomats who wish to attend religious services and to answer some of their queries.

In Salcedo Village, there is Beth Ya’akov Synagogue Jewish Center, which is at 110 H.V. de la Costa Street, Salcedo Village, Makati City. One can contact the synagogue at (632) 815-0265, (632)840-2566 (fax), or through its web site www.jewishphilippines.org. The rabbi is Eliyahu Azaria and is originally from Chicago, USA. Activities that take place in the synagogue are Sunday classes of the Torah and Hebrew for children, as well as Shabbot services for children. There are bar mitzvah and bat mitzvah classes, as well. For adults, the synagogue offers weekly classes and lectures for adult men and women and other cultural events. Kosher meals are served at the events and are also prepared for take-out orders.

Another place of worship is The Church of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) or informally called the Mormon Church, also along H.V. de la Costa Street. The church has services at 10 a.m. on Sundays in English and caters to Filipinos, as well as foreign expatriates and their families.

Further along H.V. de la Costa Street, at the corner of Tordesillas Street, is the International Baptist Church in Manila. The senior pastor is David Crim. The church will be celebrating its 54th anniversary on November 19. It also has Sunday school and an educational arm, the Spurgeon School, for children ages eight to 12.

Nearby is yet another church, the Word for the World Christian Fellowship Sanctuary, which is on Valero Street. Along the next street, there is the Saint George Greek Orthodox Chapel on Leviste Street, on the ground floor of Adamson Center. There is a chapel that is open daily from 7 to 9 a.m.

At the end of H.V. de la Costa Street, at the Banco de Oro Building, is a Catholic church, Our Lady of Guadalupe Chapel, which has Masses at 7:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 5:45 p.m., catering to people working in Makati City.

In Legaspi Village there is an international church called the Union Church of Manila, which gathers evangelical Protestants from different nations. Last but not least is the Santo Niño Chapel in Greenbelt Park. There are daily Masses and confession in the church. Counseling and outreach services are also available.

It is indeed refreshing that there are places of worship in the Makati Central Business District. Amid the hustle and bustle, there are sanctuaries, if you will, that can offer a respite, no matter how brief, to keep one in tune to one’s soul and inner being. And at times, that can make all the difference between a good day and a bad day.


INFORMATION and press officers and cultural officers of various embassies will be attending the 50th anniversary of the Federation of Provincial Press Clubs of the Philippines Inc., which will feature the First Countryside Press Congress (FCPC). Strengthening the provincial press and the strategic role of the community press will be the central theme of the golden year observance and upon constitution, the FCPC will tackle the raging issues of the nation.

The venue of the countryside media convergence will be at the Aklan State University, a national agricultural university in Banga, Aklan, on December 5 and 6; and then on December 7 and 8, this time on Boracay Island, Aklan. Some 200 media people and international delegates are expected to attend the golden anniversary. International delegates are also coming to observe the strategic role of the community press.

For those interested in attending the congress, they can still avail themselves of the early-registration discount and hotel-room assignments.

The Conference Secretariat is at Provincial Press Center, Suite 511, Marbella Building 2, Roxas Boulevard, Manila.







‘MAD’ organizer says sorry

By: Niña P. Calleja


The organizer of a Halloween fun run that was canceled to the disappointment of runners who were looking forward to being chased by 3,000 “zombies” in the streets of Makati City has finally apologized after days of being criticized on social media. John Richard Usi of J.R. Usi Presents, the main organizer of “Makati After Dark” (MAD), also said he was looking into the possibility of refunding the registration fee paid by participants. “In light of certain isolated complaints from participants of [MAD], J.R. Usi Presents would like to apologize to all those who were inconvenienced,” he said in a statement e-mailed to the Inquirer. He later clarified in a phone interview that the event was not “bogus or a scam” as claimed by irked netizens who had put up a Facebook fan page to demand a refund. Usi said the fun run encountered some setbacks but other activities like the food market and car shows pushed through as scheduled. A concert featuring popular local bands also had to be called off, he added. “We had to stop the zombie run because there was an incident of street children posing as zombies and harassing the second wave of runners,” Usi said. According to him, 33 of the 83 people who signed up for the fun run were able to go through the first two waves before organizers ordered it stopped. “We are still trying to check who are those people who want their money back,” Usi said. The Oct. 31 fun run was described as the biggest “zombie run” to be held at the central business district. Participants paid P1,000 each for the experience of being chased by 3,000 people dressed as zombies. The event was even endorsed by Makati government officials who issued press releases and closed portions of Gil Puyat Avenue and other streets for the run fun. Organizers also advertised the event as a fundraiser for victims of the 7.2-magnitude earthquake which struck Bohol and Cebu provinces.






Makati mayor calls for emergency meeting ahead of 'Yolanda' landfall

By: Mike Frialde


MANILA, Philippines - The Makati City government on Thursday ordered the Makati Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (MDRRMC) to activate the city's Incident Command System (ICS) in preparation for super typhoon "Yolanda."

The state weather bureau said Yolanda (international name Haiyan) will make landfall in Eastern Samar on Friday morning. The super typhoon is also expected to affect Metro Manila.

Makati Mayor Jejomar Erwin Binay told MDRRMC members to immediately convene and prepare the necessary equipment, tools and resources so that no harm could befall upon the residents and damages to properties could be minimized.

“I ordered the Council members to account for the trucks, motor and amphibious vehicles, relief goods, vehicle fuel, generators and other logistical needs so that we could promptly mobilize manpower and respond to the needs of our constituents," he said.

"We could not just speculate on what typhoon Yolanda could bring to Makati, it may be another Ondoy that submerged many roads and streets in Makati. We have to take pre-emptive action so that our experience with submerged and stalled relief and response vehicles would not be repeated,” Binay added.

Taken up during the emergency meeting on Thursday were: the process to be followed in informing the public and the media on the latest developments about typhoon, announcements of the city government on related concerns, requests by the residents or barangay for response and rescue operations, pre-positioning of resources so that they could easily be deployed to affected areas, and the command post or “war room” of the council members where they would convene and plan for activities during the onset of typhoon Yolanda. The command post of the council is located at the mezzanine floor of the New Makati City Hall Building II.

Present during the emergency meeting were members of MDRRM Council from the city government, University of Makati, Ospital ng Makati, Red Cross – Makati, the Department of Interior and Local Government - Makati, Makati Bureau of Fire Protection, and Makati Philippine National Police.

The public and the barangay governments are also advised to course their requests for rescue to the Makati C3 by calling emergency 168. Makati C3 performs centralized planning of the deployment of available resources for rescue. The constituents should also inform the barangay or call Makati C3 on broken branches and electric posts, or dangling electric wires that may cause harm or injury. The public may also contact these PLDT numbers connected with emergency 168: 870-1920, 870-1923, 870-1926, 870-1929, 870-1932, 870-1935, 870-1940 and 870-1942. Inquiries may also be made through emergency_168@yahoo.com, C3@makati.gov.ph, or the Twitter accounts @MakatiInfo and @ MakatiTraffic.

Recently, the city government completed the Communications Protocol for Emergencies Workshop to delineate communication and collaboration among the different units based on the Incident Command System. It is finalizing the Disaster Recovery Framework/ Plan which is the output of the International Recovery Platform and United Nations International Strategy for Disaster Reduction (UNISDR) three-day workshop attended by Metro Manila local governments and varied private organizations.

65-year-old spinster found dead in house in Makati

By: Mike Frialde


MANILA, Philippines - A 65- year old woman was found dead inside her house in Barangay Cembo in Makati City on Tuesday night.

Chief Inspector Eycon Garduque of the Makati Police Criminal Investigation Division (CID) said Lydia Blasa was found lying face up on the ground floor of her house at 370 Mangga St, when her house was forced open by police officers and barangay watchmen at about 8:30 p.m.

"Her neighbors got worried when she did not go out of her house the whole day. They decided to call the barangay and the police," said Garduque.

Garduque said Blasa was single, was a retired employee of the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) and has no relatives staying with her in the house. Garduque added that Blasa was also alone inside the house when she was found.

Initial invesigation ruled out foul play in Blasa's death.

"All of her valuables were intact. There were also no signs to show that robbers had entered the house," said Garduque.

Garduque said that found beside Blasa were medications for hypertension and diabetes.

Blasa's body was taken to Funeraria Veronica where an autopsy was performed. Results of the autopsy have yet to be sent to the Makati Police, Garduque said.

Call center worker jumps to his death

By: Niña P. Calleja


The police have ruled out foul play in the death of a call center supervisor who fell from a high-rise building in Makati City Monday morning. Christian Sanchez, 27, a resident of Signal Village in Taguig City, was declared dead on arrival at Makati Medical Center after he fell from the seventh floor of the 52-story PBCom Tower at the corner of Ayala Avenue and V. A. Rufino Street at 8:05 a.m. Citing witnesses, Chief Insp. Reycon Garduque, Makati police investigation chief, said that Sanchez climbed over a railing on the seventh floor and then jumped to his death. “He went to the cafeteria to eat and then walked up to the railing of the building and then jumped. This was witnessed by employees on the seventh floor,” the police official added. Investigators concluded that Sanchez committed suicide and there was no foul play involved in his death. “Even the family of the victim was convinced he had committed suicide,” Garduque said. The victim’s family told the police that Sanchez suffered from a medical condition although they refused to elaborate, the police official added. “According to his family, he had been depressed over the past few days,” Garduque said.

Makati urges DPWH: to fastrack road repairs in the city

By: (ICRD/RJB/JCP/PIA-NCR)


MAKATI CITY, Nov. 4 (PIA) -- The local government appealed to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), which has jurisdiction over national roads like Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue, to speed up road repairs being conducted within Makati so as not to compound flooding and traffic congestion in the city.

In a statement, City Engineer Mario Badillo said his office has been receiving complaints from motorists about flash floods and traffic jams in certain areas undergoing road repair works by the DPWH.

“We appeal to the DPWH to prioritize the completion of its road repair projects in our city, especially on flood-prone and high-traffic areas like Sen. Gil Puyat and Kalayaan Avenues. The longer they take to finish, the less effective our continuous declogging and desilting operations become in mitigating floods,” Badillo said.

Badillo said his office recently finished declogging and desilting operations in Brgys. San Antonio, La Paz and Pio del Pilar, hauling over 100 metric tons of silt and debris. They have also completed clearing illegal structures and relocating informal settlers in two of four Makati barangays spanned by Tripa de Gallina, a vital waterway serving as the outfall where 80 percent of the city’s wastewater is discharged, he said. The said waterway traverses the cities of Makati and Pasay.

“We have been doing everything that we could to prevent flooding, particularly in major thoroughfares like the intersection of Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue and South Luzon Expressway. However, our efforts are being undermined by prolonged diggings and the continued presence of informal settlers on portions of waterways that are outside the city’s boundaries,” Badillo said.

Monitoring teams of the city engineering department have reported ongoing DPWH roadway projects on J.P. Rizal Street in Brgy. Olympia, Kalayaan Avenue in Brgys. Bel-Air, Sta. Cruz and San Antonio, Arnaiz Avenue in Brgy. Pio del Pilar, Evangelista St. in Brgy. Bangkal, Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue spanning Brgys. Palanan and San Isidro, Faraday St. and Rockefeller St. in Brgy. San Isidro, and Emilia St. in Brgy. Palanan. Other areas to be covered by DPWH roadworks are Magallanes Interchange along Brgys. Bangkal and Magallanes.

IBM extends smarter cities challenge program to 2014

By: MST Tech


IBM said it is extending the Smarter Cities Challenge competitive grants program, which funds the deployment of IBM’s top talent to perform pro bono problem solving in municipalities worldwide.

Program recipients receive three-week engagements from IBM experts, each valued at USD $400,000, where they can obtain assistance in addressing challenges pertaining to water, energy and environment; health and social services; transportation; and public safety.

In the Philippines, Makati City received a similar grant to be implemented next year. The grant will provide analysis and recommendations from IBM experts on some of the city’s traffic management issues.

For the 2014 cycle, the Smarter Cities Challenge is open to local, regional and general purpose governing bodies including cities, counties, prefectures, boroughs and districts.

Applications may be submitted through November 8, 2013 by visiting www.smartercitieschallenge.org.







Makati students to compete in the World Robot Olympiad

By: Anna Liza Villas-Alavaren


Thirteen students from a public high school and two public elementary schools in Makati City will join the Philippine team that will compete this month in the 10th World Robot Olympiad (WRO) to be held in Jakarta, Indonesia.

The students comprised the teams from Tibagan Elementary School, Nemesio I. Yabut Elementary School and Benigno Aquino High School, which were among the 54 elementary and 91 secondary schools all over the country that competed in during the12th Philippine Robotics Olympiad (PRO12). The winning pupils were identified from Tibagan Elementary School as Treasure Frias, Hanz Ashley Andaya and Zalvar Sampayan and from Benigno Aquino High School, John Renz Tutaan, Irene Eliseo and Joanne Airish Capulong. They will compete in the elementary and high school Regular category of the WRO in Jakarta. Makati has the biggest computer-to-student ratio among the country’s public schools, and is the first school division to integrate computer subjects and computer-aided instruction in its curriculum. Every year, other Makati public schools are added to the growing list of PRO winners and WRO finalists, including Tibagan Elementary School, Tibagan High School, Benigno Aquino High School, Pitogo High School and West Rembo Elementary School. To date, all of Makati’s public elementary and high schools have Robotics in their curriculum. Robotics is a science and technology program using higher science concepts application and dealing with the design, construction and operation of robots in automation.

13 Makati pupils join Robot Olympiad

By: Anna Liza Villas


Manila, Philippines – Thirteen students from a public high school and two public elementary schools in Makati City will join the Philippine team that will compete this month in the 10th World Robot Olympiad (WRO) to be held in Jakarta, Indonesia.

The students comprised the teams from Tibagan Elementary School, Nemesio I. Yabut Elementary School and Benigno Aquino High School, which were among the 54 elementary and 91 secondary schools all over the country that competed during the 12th Philippine Robotics Olympiad (PRO12).

The winning pupils were identified from Tibagan Elementary School as Treasure Frias, Hanz Ashley Andaya and Zalvar Sampayan, and from Benigno Aquino High School, John Renz Tutaan, Irene Eliseo and Joanne Airish Capulong. They will compete in the elementary and high school regular category of the WRO.

Makati has the biggest computer-to-student ratio among the country’s public schools, and is the first school division to integrate computer subjects and computer-aided instruction in its curriculum.

Every year, other Makati public schools are added to the growing list of PRO winners and WRO finalists, including Tibagan Elementary School, Tibagan High School, Benigno Aquino High School, Pitogo High School and West Rembo Elementary School.

To date, all of Makati’s public elementary and high schools have Robotics in their curriculum.

Robotics is a science and technology program using higher science concepts application and dealing with the design, construction and operation of robots in automation.

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