Extra holidays declared at the end of year
The Malacañang said Oct. 31 and Dec. 26 are declared as nonworking holidays to allow most Filipinos, mainly Catholics, to have longer observance of two important religious events.
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Domestic helpers in HK get pay raise
Labor Acting Secretary Manuel Imson said Hong Kong has granted a HK$50 or around P350 wage increase for foreign domestic helpers, raising to HK$3,320 or P23, 246.05 per month the minimum allowable wage from the previous $3,270.
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Businessmen still optimistic on economy
Businessmen are still optimistic on the economic prospects for the second and third quarter but their level of confidence is lower amid rising oil prices, a possible increase in the value added tax and a slowdown in foreign trade, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas assistant governor Diwa Guinigundo said.
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Making money out of animal waste
The firm which Samuel Stewart heads, Philippine Bio-Sciences & Engineering Co. Inc., converts pig manure into a power source.
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DepEd to release ‘notes’ for 80 error-filled textbooks
The Department of Education will issue “teaching notes” to accompany 43 elementary and 37 high-school textbooks that previously contained “minor errors.”
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Gov’t to require safety test of auto parts
Following reports of road accidents caused by substandard automotive items, the Department of Trade and Industry will soon require mandatory testing on six types of auto parts, Jesus Motoomull, director of DTI’s Bureau of Product Standards said.
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Oil prices still high, DOE pushes conservation
Crude oil prices remain relatively high compared with last year prompting the Department of Energy to call on the public to continue conserving energy despite the recent cuts in fuel prices.
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NBI warns public of fake peso, dollar bills
The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) here warned the public on the proliferation of not only counterfeit peso bills but also dollar bills.
Atty. Dominador Cimafranca, Agent-in-Charge of the NBI here, said his office has received intelligence reports that fake dollar bills are also being circulated nationwide.
Cimafranca urged the public to watch out for the said bills. “If you receive a fake bill, immediately report this to police authorities,” he said.
Atty. Dominador Cimafranca, Agent-in-Charge of the NBI here, said his office has received intelligence reports that fake dollar bills are also being circulated nationwide.
Cimafranca urged the public to watch out for the said bills. “If you receive a fake bill, immediately report this to police authorities,” he said.
BI to revive integration prog
The Bureau of Immigration (BI)is planning to revive its social integration program to legalize the status of over 16,000 illegal aliens in the country.
Records from the Bureau of Immigration here show that there are currently 618 aliens in the provinces of Negros Oriental and Siquijor.
Majority of these aliens are classified as permanent, or either foreigners who married Filipino citizens or former Filipinos who lived and became a citizen abroad and came back to live here.
The rest are tourists, missionaries and students, Dizon added.
Records from the Bureau of Immigration here show that there are currently 618 aliens in the provinces of Negros Oriental and Siquijor.
Majority of these aliens are classified as permanent, or either foreigners who married Filipino citizens or former Filipinos who lived and became a citizen abroad and came back to live here.
The rest are tourists, missionaries and students, Dizon added.
DTI to drug firms:Hold prices at present levels
The Department of Trade and Industry appealed to drug manufacturers to hold prices of
medicines steady.
However, the Bureau of Food and Drugs in Dumaguete City received no formal complaint on prices of medicine from local consumers.
But only two complaints regarding the non-issuance by drug stores of the 20% senior citizen discount on medicines were reported to the BFAD office here since January this year.
medicines steady.
However, the Bureau of Food and Drugs in Dumaguete City received no formal complaint on prices of medicine from local consumers.
But only two complaints regarding the non-issuance by drug stores of the 20% senior citizen discount on medicines were reported to the BFAD office here since January this year.
98% of GSIS members in NegOr,Siq avail of eCard
The Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) here reported that to date, 17,293 GSIS members in the provinces of Negros Oriental and Siquijor have already availed of the GSIS e-Card.
There are a total of 17,598 GSIS members in NegOr and Siquijor, says GSIS Information Officer Jaydon Villaverde.
As of March 19, GSIS have issued a total of 754,809 eCards, more than one half of the 1.3 million GSIS 98% of GSIS members in NegOr,Siq avail of eCard members.
The eCard serves as the official identification card of GSIS members. It is a government-issued ID, which can be used for any legal transaction.
GSIS members in the provinces reportedly showed the most interest in having an eCard, as four eCard enrollment centers in the countryside registered more than 20,000 applications each for February alone.
The eCard enrollment center was launched February 21 in Negros Oriental and ran until April 30, 2005, says Villaverde.
She said GSIS members here who haven’t availed yetof the eCard can go to any of the three eCard enrollment centers in Visayas namely: GSIS office in Cebu, Island City Mall in Bohol and at the compound of the Sugar Regulatory Administration (beside
Sugarland Hotel) in Bacolod City.
Under the eCard system, GSIS members may file their application for a one-time cash advance of P5,000 over the GSIS eGranting facility on the internet.
To date, more than P1.3 billion in loan to members who availed of the P5, 000 eCard cash advance had been disbursed.
More than just a GSIS membership ID, the eCard is an ATM and online access card where GSIS members can check their GSIS accounts and eventually apply online and get proceeds of their loans and claims from GSIS.
There are a total of 17,598 GSIS members in NegOr and Siquijor, says GSIS Information Officer Jaydon Villaverde.
As of March 19, GSIS have issued a total of 754,809 eCards, more than one half of the 1.3 million GSIS 98% of GSIS members in NegOr,Siq avail of eCard members.
The eCard serves as the official identification card of GSIS members. It is a government-issued ID, which can be used for any legal transaction.
GSIS members in the provinces reportedly showed the most interest in having an eCard, as four eCard enrollment centers in the countryside registered more than 20,000 applications each for February alone.
The eCard enrollment center was launched February 21 in Negros Oriental and ran until April 30, 2005, says Villaverde.
She said GSIS members here who haven’t availed yetof the eCard can go to any of the three eCard enrollment centers in Visayas namely: GSIS office in Cebu, Island City Mall in Bohol and at the compound of the Sugar Regulatory Administration (beside
Sugarland Hotel) in Bacolod City.
Under the eCard system, GSIS members may file their application for a one-time cash advance of P5,000 over the GSIS eGranting facility on the internet.
To date, more than P1.3 billion in loan to members who availed of the P5, 000 eCard cash advance had been disbursed.
More than just a GSIS membership ID, the eCard is an ATM and online access card where GSIS members can check their GSIS accounts and eventually apply online and get proceeds of their loans and claims from GSIS.
385 vehicles impounded for traffic violations
The local Traffic Management Unit (TMU) has impounded a total of 385 vehicles since January this year.
Reynaldo Martinez of the TMU said that of the total, 85 were impounded for no car plates while the rest were due to other violations of traffic regulations.
Most common traffic violations are illegal parking or disregarding traffic signs, he said.
Martinez said the impounded vehicles have already been released to erring drivers after paying the corresponding penalty.
The Department of Interior and Local Government has been intensifying the “no plate, no travel” policy of the government, announced Interior and Local Government Secretary Angelo Reyes, who reported that 407 more vehicles were impounded by police
nationwide.
In Dumaguete City, the city police office through its traffic investigation division has started assisting traffic aides last May 20 in apprehending erring drivers in the city.
SPO4 George Ynzon, Traffic Investigation Police Non-Commissioned Officer, said the police had to step in since most erring drivers ignored the traffic aides who tried to enforce traffic regulations.
The city police force has impounded 11 vehicles, nine (9) of which are due to no license plate, Ynzon said.
Reynaldo Martinez of the TMU said that of the total, 85 were impounded for no car plates while the rest were due to other violations of traffic regulations.
Most common traffic violations are illegal parking or disregarding traffic signs, he said.
Martinez said the impounded vehicles have already been released to erring drivers after paying the corresponding penalty.
The Department of Interior and Local Government has been intensifying the “no plate, no travel” policy of the government, announced Interior and Local Government Secretary Angelo Reyes, who reported that 407 more vehicles were impounded by police
nationwide.
In Dumaguete City, the city police office through its traffic investigation division has started assisting traffic aides last May 20 in apprehending erring drivers in the city.
SPO4 George Ynzon, Traffic Investigation Police Non-Commissioned Officer, said the police had to step in since most erring drivers ignored the traffic aides who tried to enforce traffic regulations.
The city police force has impounded 11 vehicles, nine (9) of which are due to no license plate, Ynzon said.
385 vehicles impounded for traffic violations
The local Traffic Management Unit (TMU) has impounded a total of 385 vehicles since January this year.
Reynaldo Martinez of the TMU said that of the total, 85 were impounded for no car plates while the rest were due to other violations of traffic regulations.
Most common traffic violations are illegal parking or disregarding traffic signs, he said.
Martinez said the impounded vehicles have already been released to erring drivers after paying the corresponding penalty.
The Department of Interior and Local Government has been intensifying the “no plate, no travel” policy of the government, announced Interior and Local Government Secretary Angelo Reyes, who reported that 407 more vehicles were impounded by police
nationwide.
In Dumaguete City, the city police office through its traffic investigation division has started assisting traffic aides last May 20 in apprehending erring drivers in the city.
SPO4 George Ynzon, Traffic Investigation Police Non-Commissioned Officer, said the police had to step in since most erring drivers ignored the traffic aides who tried to enforce traffic regulations.
The city police force has impounded 11 vehicles, nine (9) of which are due to no license plate, Ynzon said.
Reynaldo Martinez of the TMU said that of the total, 85 were impounded for no car plates while the rest were due to other violations of traffic regulations.
Most common traffic violations are illegal parking or disregarding traffic signs, he said.
Martinez said the impounded vehicles have already been released to erring drivers after paying the corresponding penalty.
The Department of Interior and Local Government has been intensifying the “no plate, no travel” policy of the government, announced Interior and Local Government Secretary Angelo Reyes, who reported that 407 more vehicles were impounded by police
nationwide.
In Dumaguete City, the city police office through its traffic investigation division has started assisting traffic aides last May 20 in apprehending erring drivers in the city.
SPO4 George Ynzon, Traffic Investigation Police Non-Commissioned Officer, said the police had to step in since most erring drivers ignored the traffic aides who tried to enforce traffic regulations.
The city police force has impounded 11 vehicles, nine (9) of which are due to no license plate, Ynzon said.
5/20/2005
SOUNDBYTES (From May 19 issue)
Traders freeze prices of school supplies
Prices of school supplies such as pencils, crayons, ball pens, writing pads and notebooks, will remain as they are, the DTI assured parents and students after a meeting with suppliers, distributors and retailers.
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Upgrade of Camotes airstrip planned
The Mactan Cebu International Airport Authority and the provincial government of Cebu have agreed to pool funds and improve the airstrip in the town of Poro on Camotes
Island, a potential top tourist destination.
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Gov't limits tuition hikes
The Commission on Higher Education is ordering all private colleges and universities to keep tuition fee increases at par with inflation, which was 8.5% in April,as determined by NEDA.
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Bill on LPG
A bill setting the inspection and supervision framework for the refining, importation, refilling, distribution, and marketing processes of the liquefied
petroleum gas industry was filed by Sen. Manuel Roxas.
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DepEd promises to update GSIS records of workers
The Department of Education said in four months’ time the GSIS records of the agency will be updated especially those of “retired and active” government educators.
-30-
Small players get bigger share of LPG market
Small oil players continue to eat up a major portion of the liquefied petroleum gas market proving that the oil deregulation law has benefited that oil firms, specially
the new ones.
-30-
Oil prices down to $48.25
Oil prices eased after the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries pledged to
keep pumping at almost full tilt even as crude stockpiles in the United States remained abundant.
-30-
Give gov’t enough time for fiscal programs- solons
House leaders urged the people to give the Arroyo administration enough time for its fiscal and good governance reforms program to take positive effect, including the
value-added tax, the final component of its urgent fiscal agenda.
-30-
Prices of school supplies such as pencils, crayons, ball pens, writing pads and notebooks, will remain as they are, the DTI assured parents and students after a meeting with suppliers, distributors and retailers.
-30-
Upgrade of Camotes airstrip planned
The Mactan Cebu International Airport Authority and the provincial government of Cebu have agreed to pool funds and improve the airstrip in the town of Poro on Camotes
Island, a potential top tourist destination.
-30-
Gov't limits tuition hikes
The Commission on Higher Education is ordering all private colleges and universities to keep tuition fee increases at par with inflation, which was 8.5% in April,as determined by NEDA.
-30-
Bill on LPG
A bill setting the inspection and supervision framework for the refining, importation, refilling, distribution, and marketing processes of the liquefied
petroleum gas industry was filed by Sen. Manuel Roxas.
-30-
DepEd promises to update GSIS records of workers
The Department of Education said in four months’ time the GSIS records of the agency will be updated especially those of “retired and active” government educators.
-30-
Small players get bigger share of LPG market
Small oil players continue to eat up a major portion of the liquefied petroleum gas market proving that the oil deregulation law has benefited that oil firms, specially
the new ones.
-30-
Oil prices down to $48.25
Oil prices eased after the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries pledged to
keep pumping at almost full tilt even as crude stockpiles in the United States remained abundant.
-30-
Give gov’t enough time for fiscal programs- solons
House leaders urged the people to give the Arroyo administration enough time for its fiscal and good governance reforms program to take positive effect, including the
value-added tax, the final component of its urgent fiscal agenda.
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5/19/2005
P900M benefit payments released for Reg-7 PhilHealth members
The Philippine Health Insurance Corp. in Region 7 has released more than P900 million as benefit payments for its PhilHealth clients in year 2004.
Mabeth Solis, public relations officer of PHIC Regional Office in Cebu said the payments released were for health services covered by PhilHealth such as out-patient and in-patient services, chemotherapy, radiology, dialysis, ambulatory surgical procedures and special packages on maternity care and dialysis package for free-standing dialysis clinics.
Records show that the top ten causes of hospitalization claimed by PHIC P900M benefit payments released for Reg-7 PhilHealth members clients in 2004 in Region 7 are as
follows: pneumonia, acute gastroenteritis, pregnancy (live birth), urinary tract infection, bronchial asthma, acute bronchitis, end-stage renal disease, acute gastritis, single spontaneous delivery and acute amebic dysentery.
There are a total of 1,115,163 PhilHealth members regionwide.
For hospitalization claims filed by overseas Filipino workers, PHIC has paid a total of P3.947 million, a month after assuming the medical care program from Overseas Workers Welfare Administration.
Mabeth Solis, public relations officer of PHIC Regional Office in Cebu said the payments released were for health services covered by PhilHealth such as out-patient and in-patient services, chemotherapy, radiology, dialysis, ambulatory surgical procedures and special packages on maternity care and dialysis package for free-standing dialysis clinics.
Records show that the top ten causes of hospitalization claimed by PHIC P900M benefit payments released for Reg-7 PhilHealth members clients in 2004 in Region 7 are as
follows: pneumonia, acute gastroenteritis, pregnancy (live birth), urinary tract infection, bronchial asthma, acute bronchitis, end-stage renal disease, acute gastritis, single spontaneous delivery and acute amebic dysentery.
There are a total of 1,115,163 PhilHealth members regionwide.
For hospitalization claims filed by overseas Filipino workers, PHIC has paid a total of P3.947 million, a month after assuming the medical care program from Overseas Workers Welfare Administration.
PNP launches program to protect
Philippine National Police Anti-Illegal Drugs Task Force commander Deputy Director General Ricardo de Leon formally launched this week the "Pamilya Ayaw sa Droga" program to protect children against the growing threat of drug abuse.
Col. Diomedes Sumbilon, assistant provincial police director here, said that they have yet to receive a directive from their Central Office on the conduct of the said program in the province, although regular anti-drug PNP launches program to protect
kids from drug abuse campaign activities are regularly being conducted provincewide.
Provincial Anti-Illegal Drugs Special Operation Group Officer Insp. Gerry Camarador said among the regular activities geared towards antiillegal drugs is the on-going drug symposia.
Camarador said the Pamilya Ayaw sa Droga is also aimed at keeping the community, particularly the family, "awake" against the illegal-drugs activities.
Col. Diomedes Sumbilon, assistant provincial police director here, said that they have yet to receive a directive from their Central Office on the conduct of the said program in the province, although regular anti-drug PNP launches program to protect
kids from drug abuse campaign activities are regularly being conducted provincewide.
Provincial Anti-Illegal Drugs Special Operation Group Officer Insp. Gerry Camarador said among the regular activities geared towards antiillegal drugs is the on-going drug symposia.
Camarador said the Pamilya Ayaw sa Droga is also aimed at keeping the community, particularly the family, "awake" against the illegal-drugs activities.
Agriculture and fisheries survive El Niño
The Department of Agriculture here described the crop damage caused by El Niño in Negros Oriental as “mild” compared to previous episodes of the abnormal weather phenomenon.
Department of Agriculture Sec. Arthur C. Yap said that the Philippine agriculture and fisheries sector survived the El Niño dry spell to post 0.55 percent growth in the first quarter of 2005 on the back of strong poultry and fishery productions.
Hisona said his office is still consolidating figures on the total crop damage in Negros Oriental as most of the Municipal Agriculturist Officers have yet to submit their status reports.
So far, only Canlaon City, Bayawan City, Basay and Siaton towns have submitted crop damage reports.
In Canlaon City, 22.3 hectares of the 32.3 total area planted with rice has been declared “without chance of recovery” as a result of the El Niño-induced drought. Production loss amounts to P1,345,150 or equivalent to 127,440 metric tons.
Bayawan City reported 5 hectares of its 258 has. total area of rice planted as "without chance of recovery” with production loss pegged at P320,000 or 800 metric tons.
Hisonia said February is normally a dry season, but with the onslaught of El Niño it has reduced water levels throughout the province.
Fish production, on the other hand, is a different story.
The fish pond industry in the province thrived under the dry spell of El Niño since heat sets off an increased propagation of phytoplanktons or lablab which fishes feed on, said Leonardo Aro, chief of the local Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources.
This, Aro explains, is a normal occurrence during summer period. Harvest assumption for the fishery industry in Negros Oriental each year is between 2.5 to 3 metric tons
per hectare per year.
There are a total of 2,600 hectares of watered areas in the province, including titled areas, illegally established fish ponds and those that are under lease agreement.
Department of Agriculture Sec. Arthur C. Yap said that the Philippine agriculture and fisheries sector survived the El Niño dry spell to post 0.55 percent growth in the first quarter of 2005 on the back of strong poultry and fishery productions.
Hisona said his office is still consolidating figures on the total crop damage in Negros Oriental as most of the Municipal Agriculturist Officers have yet to submit their status reports.
So far, only Canlaon City, Bayawan City, Basay and Siaton towns have submitted crop damage reports.
In Canlaon City, 22.3 hectares of the 32.3 total area planted with rice has been declared “without chance of recovery” as a result of the El Niño-induced drought. Production loss amounts to P1,345,150 or equivalent to 127,440 metric tons.
Bayawan City reported 5 hectares of its 258 has. total area of rice planted as "without chance of recovery” with production loss pegged at P320,000 or 800 metric tons.
Hisonia said February is normally a dry season, but with the onslaught of El Niño it has reduced water levels throughout the province.
Fish production, on the other hand, is a different story.
The fish pond industry in the province thrived under the dry spell of El Niño since heat sets off an increased propagation of phytoplanktons or lablab which fishes feed on, said Leonardo Aro, chief of the local Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources.
This, Aro explains, is a normal occurrence during summer period. Harvest assumption for the fishery industry in Negros Oriental each year is between 2.5 to 3 metric tons
per hectare per year.
There are a total of 2,600 hectares of watered areas in the province, including titled areas, illegally established fish ponds and those that are under lease agreement.
‘Increase tax payments,’ BIR urges
BIR Assistant Revenue District Officer Atty. Arturo Acabal is appealing to big taxpayers in the province who are subject to percentage tax to personally increase their voluntary declaration and tax payments by 20 percent or more.
Acabal said 2005 is a critical year for the BIR-Dumaguete office in view of the drawn out labor dispute between CAB and its workers, which has affected BIR’s collection from sugar centrals.
DYNO Nobel in Bacong has also reported a low income this year, he said.
BIR-Dumaguete’s collection goal this year is 751 million. The Dumaguete Revenue District Office (RDO) has exceeded its collection goal for the past four years, making it number two in tax collection efficiency among RDOs nationwide in 2004.
Acabal said 2005 is a critical year for the BIR-Dumaguete office in view of the drawn out labor dispute between CAB and its workers, which has affected BIR’s collection from sugar centrals.
DYNO Nobel in Bacong has also reported a low income this year, he said.
BIR-Dumaguete’s collection goal this year is 751 million. The Dumaguete Revenue District Office (RDO) has exceeded its collection goal for the past four years, making it number two in tax collection efficiency among RDOs nationwide in 2004.
5/17/2005
Soundbytes (From Infobytes May 16 issue)
Gloria vows to use fiscal reform funds in anti-graft drive
Pres. Arroyo vowed to invest the money generated from the fiscal reform measures she had proposed in Congress in strengthening the government’s campaign against graft and corruption within its ranks. The Pres. gave herself 3 years to win the war against corruption and vowed to achieve what Hong Kong, through an independent anticorruption commission, was able to accomplish in 7 years.
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EU help vs. corruption
The European Commission, the European Union’s executive body, said it has forked out some P202 million in international aid to the Phils. in support of the government’s anticorruption policies.
-30-
Creation of consumers’grievance committee sought
Negros Oriental Rep. Herminio Teves sought the creation of a powerful House of Representatives special committee that would deal exclusively with consumer grievances.
-30-
DOT spearheads drive ensuring safety of tourists
DOT Sec. Joseph Ace Durano spearheads the agency’s advocacy campaign on assuring tourists of safety while in the country through the official signing of a memorandum of agreement on security awareness.
-30-
IMF hails passage of VAT bill
The Int’l. Monetary Fund has hailed the passage of the value added tax bill as a major step toward improving the Philippines’ fiscal situation.
-30-
Pres. Arroyo vowed to invest the money generated from the fiscal reform measures she had proposed in Congress in strengthening the government’s campaign against graft and corruption within its ranks. The Pres. gave herself 3 years to win the war against corruption and vowed to achieve what Hong Kong, through an independent anticorruption commission, was able to accomplish in 7 years.
-30-
EU help vs. corruption
The European Commission, the European Union’s executive body, said it has forked out some P202 million in international aid to the Phils. in support of the government’s anticorruption policies.
-30-
Creation of consumers’grievance committee sought
Negros Oriental Rep. Herminio Teves sought the creation of a powerful House of Representatives special committee that would deal exclusively with consumer grievances.
-30-
DOT spearheads drive ensuring safety of tourists
DOT Sec. Joseph Ace Durano spearheads the agency’s advocacy campaign on assuring tourists of safety while in the country through the official signing of a memorandum of agreement on security awareness.
-30-
IMF hails passage of VAT bill
The Int’l. Monetary Fund has hailed the passage of the value added tax bill as a major step toward improving the Philippines’ fiscal situation.
-30-
DOF Sec assures Phils. will not do an Argentina
Finance Secretary Cesar V. Purisima said there has been a “significant progress” in the
country’s fiscal reform agenda.
"“We have arrested the decline in revenues and managed our expenditures well which put
us one year ahead of our fiscal consolidation program. Our tax compliance campaign is gaining popular support as evidenced by the 44% increase in collections of the Bureau of Internal Revenue on April 15, the last day of filing of income tax returns. This was due to larger taxpayer turnout and greater voluntary compliance from the taxpaying public.” Tax measures that will bring in more than P80 billion annually was also enacted. “These, together with the long maturity profile of Philippine debt, help ensure that the Philippines will be able to honor its international obligations and
should not be compared with Argentina.”"
The Finance Secretary said he expects this year’s consolidated fiscal deficit of the public sector to be below the programmed ceiling of P203 billion, with additional tax revenues arising from the new value-added tax legislation.
country’s fiscal reform agenda.
"“We have arrested the decline in revenues and managed our expenditures well which put
us one year ahead of our fiscal consolidation program. Our tax compliance campaign is gaining popular support as evidenced by the 44% increase in collections of the Bureau of Internal Revenue on April 15, the last day of filing of income tax returns. This was due to larger taxpayer turnout and greater voluntary compliance from the taxpaying public.” Tax measures that will bring in more than P80 billion annually was also enacted. “These, together with the long maturity profile of Philippine debt, help ensure that the Philippines will be able to honor its international obligations and
should not be compared with Argentina.”"
The Finance Secretary said he expects this year’s consolidated fiscal deficit of the public sector to be below the programmed ceiling of P203 billion, with additional tax revenues arising from the new value-added tax legislation.
Scholars participate in the 2nd batch of PNOC EDC Energy Camp 2005
PNOC-EDC through the Southern Negros Geothermal Production Field successfully conducted the 2nd batch of Energy Camp 2005 from May 7 to 15 in Brgy. Puhagan, Valencia, Negros Oriental.
The camp provided an alternative summer experience for some 48 EDC high school scholars coming from PNOC EDC’s geothermal sites in Southern Negros, Northern Negros, Bacon-Manito in Sorsogon and Mt. Apo, Kidapawan in Mindanao.
Dubbed as the “ultimate summer learning experience,” Energy Camp 2005 aimed to provide the children of its host communities an alternative fun summer vacation where
environmental awareness and experiential learning through various physical and recreational programs will be enjoyed by the campers.
The camp provided an alternative summer experience for some 48 EDC high school scholars coming from PNOC EDC’s geothermal sites in Southern Negros, Northern Negros, Bacon-Manito in Sorsogon and Mt. Apo, Kidapawan in Mindanao.
Dubbed as the “ultimate summer learning experience,” Energy Camp 2005 aimed to provide the children of its host communities an alternative fun summer vacation where
environmental awareness and experiential learning through various physical and recreational programs will be enjoyed by the campers.
Local BIR Assistant Revenue District Officer Atty. Arturo Acabal explaining how taxes are paid and what are taxes all about during the May 11 Kapihan sa PIA forum held to inform the public on the EVAT Bill.
5/16/2005
BIR conducts tax mapping operations
As a result of its intensified tax mapping operations, the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) has imposed fines on three law offices in Dumaguete City for
failure to register.
BIR is conducting an ongoing inspection of all business establishments and professionals in the provinces of Negros Oriental and Siquijor to check if they are complying with administrative requirements.
The said requirements include registration certificate, official receipts and books of accounts, said Jose Senador, officer in charge for BIR’'s Taxpayers’ Service Station.
Under the law, the maximum penalty for failure to register is P12,000.
To date, nine law offices have already been inspected, but Senador said more inspections will be conducted throughout the year.
He added that they are concentrating on law offices this year, as last year’'s focus
was on doctors.
BIR officials are set to conduct tax mapping operations on May 16 in the towns of
Sibulan and San Jose.
failure to register.
BIR is conducting an ongoing inspection of all business establishments and professionals in the provinces of Negros Oriental and Siquijor to check if they are complying with administrative requirements.
The said requirements include registration certificate, official receipts and books of accounts, said Jose Senador, officer in charge for BIR’'s Taxpayers’ Service Station.
Under the law, the maximum penalty for failure to register is P12,000.
To date, nine law offices have already been inspected, but Senador said more inspections will be conducted throughout the year.
He added that they are concentrating on law offices this year, as last year’'s focus
was on doctors.
BIR officials are set to conduct tax mapping operations on May 16 in the towns of
Sibulan and San Jose.
Killing of journalists now a top security concern
The continued killing of media members is among the government’s “top security concerns,” Press Sec.Ignacio Bunye said.
He said a Press Freedom Fund worth P5M has been put up, of which P3M is from the Office of the President and P2M from Speaker Jose de Venecia.
Bunye said of the total, P2M will be used to reward informers who would help sove a case on a journalist’s murder and another P1M will be used for the witness protection
program. “The rest of the fund will be used for the so-called “Quick Reaction Team” that will respond during incidents involving members of the media.
In the recent forum of the Nat’l. Coalition for Peace, it has been noted that one contributory factor to violence is the indiscriminate carrying of guns outside of the residence. In view of this, Bunye said laws on possession of firearms will be enforced strictly.
He said a Press Freedom Fund worth P5M has been put up, of which P3M is from the Office of the President and P2M from Speaker Jose de Venecia.
Bunye said of the total, P2M will be used to reward informers who would help sove a case on a journalist’s murder and another P1M will be used for the witness protection
program. “The rest of the fund will be used for the so-called “Quick Reaction Team” that will respond during incidents involving members of the media.
In the recent forum of the Nat’l. Coalition for Peace, it has been noted that one contributory factor to violence is the indiscriminate carrying of guns outside of the residence. In view of this, Bunye said laws on possession of firearms will be enforced strictly.
No significant price increase on basic commodities
There has been no significant increase in the prices of basic commodities in the
province.
According to Jojo Sumido of the local Department of Trade and Industry, there has been no significant price increase based on DTI’s weekly price monitoring activity conducted every Monday.
Concern has been raised on the possibility of a big hike on prices of basic commodities following the recent fare increases.
Malacañang says the government is working out on ways to lessen the impact of fare
increases such as keeping the prices of basic commodities at affordable levels.
The regional wage boards are also undertaking urgent deliberations to come up with wage increase reasonable for both the management and the members.
The transport fare increase will be complemented with wage hikes agreed upon by the
regional wage boards in due time.
province.
According to Jojo Sumido of the local Department of Trade and Industry, there has been no significant price increase based on DTI’s weekly price monitoring activity conducted every Monday.
Concern has been raised on the possibility of a big hike on prices of basic commodities following the recent fare increases.
Malacañang says the government is working out on ways to lessen the impact of fare
increases such as keeping the prices of basic commodities at affordable levels.
The regional wage boards are also undertaking urgent deliberations to come up with wage increase reasonable for both the management and the members.
The transport fare increase will be complemented with wage hikes agreed upon by the
regional wage boards in due time.
Local BIR officials (L-R) Taxpayers' Service Station Officer-in-Charge Jose Senador and Assistant Revenue District Officer Atty. Arturo Acabal discuss the mechanics of the EVAT Law during the Kapihan sa PIA forum held May 11, 2005 at the Skydeck of Bethel Guesthouse, Dumaguete City.
Taxes- “lifeblood” of government
Without taxes, the government cannot exist.
According to Atty. Arturo Acabal, BIR Assistant District Officer here, in a Kapihan forum, the proposed Value Added Tax has been proposed to improve collection performance, generate revenues and lower budget deficit by 2006.
Higher government revenues will result to a more efficient and responsive public
administration while supporting government machinery and minimize budget deficits.
Citing the advantages of VAT, Atty. Acabal said it will have no cascading effect due to its simplified and neutralized rates unlike before. “Unlike before, daghang taxes, malibog na gani ang businessmen what business to put up,” he said.
The Value Added Tax is a business tax levied on certain goods, properties and services that is being adopted in more than 70 countries worldwide. The VAT system was first introduced and implemented in 1998 under Executive Order No. 273 but covered only a limited number of goods and services.
Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye says the passage of the VAT bill will strengthen the
country’s economic footing and “give us the needed breathing space to broaden confidence, grow investments and create jobs.”
The House and Senate are expected to reach a compromise and Bunye said this will be a big step towards balancing the budget which is a major item in the 10-Point Agenda of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
Malacañang is confident the Supreme Court will uphold the legality of the value-added
tax bill, including the grant of authority to President Arroyo to raise the VAT rate to 12 percent by 2006, Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye said.
According to Atty. Arturo Acabal, BIR Assistant District Officer here, in a Kapihan forum, the proposed Value Added Tax has been proposed to improve collection performance, generate revenues and lower budget deficit by 2006.
Higher government revenues will result to a more efficient and responsive public
administration while supporting government machinery and minimize budget deficits.
Citing the advantages of VAT, Atty. Acabal said it will have no cascading effect due to its simplified and neutralized rates unlike before. “Unlike before, daghang taxes, malibog na gani ang businessmen what business to put up,” he said.
The Value Added Tax is a business tax levied on certain goods, properties and services that is being adopted in more than 70 countries worldwide. The VAT system was first introduced and implemented in 1998 under Executive Order No. 273 but covered only a limited number of goods and services.
Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye says the passage of the VAT bill will strengthen the
country’s economic footing and “give us the needed breathing space to broaden confidence, grow investments and create jobs.”
The House and Senate are expected to reach a compromise and Bunye said this will be a big step towards balancing the budget which is a major item in the 10-Point Agenda of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
Malacañang is confident the Supreme Court will uphold the legality of the value-added
tax bill, including the grant of authority to President Arroyo to raise the VAT rate to 12 percent by 2006, Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye said.
5/10/2005
It's World Press Freedom Day!
Local members of the Dumaguete gathered at the PIA office to get their T-shirts that they would wear to publicly denounce the rash of killings among media members nationwide.
NBN Station Supervisor and PDI Correspondent Alex Pal with PIM Jenny Tilos supporting the nationwide efforts of journalists to put a stop to the recent spate of killings of members of the Fourth Estate. Both are members of the Dumaguete Press Club with Mr. Pal as the President.
5/01/2005
NUJP hold forum on safety and ethics
Members of the local press took advantage of the presence of NUJP National President Inday Espina-Varona in Dumaguete City by holding a forum on safety and ethics at the Media Lounge of the PIA Provincial Information Center here.
Varona was in town for the two-day Media Orientation-Writeshop on Reproductive Health and Sexuality Advocacy conducted earlier at Bethel Guesthouse (See below for pictures).
Varona was in town for the two-day Media Orientation-Writeshop on Reproductive Health and Sexuality Advocacy conducted earlier at Bethel Guesthouse (See below for pictures).
During the forum, NUJP President Inday Espina-Varona gave inputs on how provincial reporters can effectively deal with local issues concerning their safety and media ethics.
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