SOUNDBYTES(From May 31 issue)

Markets for agriproducts in Mindanao sought
Several provinces in Mindanao are seeking access to investors and markets for their different kinds of agricultural products.

1.2M gov’t men get pay increase
Pres. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has given the go-signal for the inclusion of the pay increase for 1.2 million government employees under the 2006 General Appropriations Act to be submitted by Malacañang to Congress in August, Budget and Management Sec. Emilia Boncodin revealed.

Union Bank named GSIS eCard service provider
Union Bank of the Philippines was chosen as the service provider for the eCard scheme of the GSIS because of its track record as well as for submitting the best bid for the project, GSIS executive vice president Enriqueta Disuanco said.

Wages decided today
Six regional wage boards, including Metro Manila’s are expected to order today an increase in the minimum daily wage of workers in different parts of the country.

Malacañang insists VAT law will stand up to Supreme Court scrutiny
Malacañang reiterated its confidence that Congress’ approval of a standby authority allowing Pres. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to increase the value-added tax rate will be upheld by the Supreme Court. The Palace said the approval of the new EVAT would be the linchpin of the country’s economic stability and growth.