Philippines to Terminate ₱1.2-billion UH-1 Chopper Deal ; Supplier failed to Deliver Sep 2014

TERMINATION NOTICE. The Department of National Defense has notified the foreign suppliers of the choppers. Photo from Philippine Air Force

 

DND moves to terminate controversial chopper deal

The defense department has sent a notice to the foreign suppliers for their failure complete the delivery of the 21 choppers on time

MANILA, Philippines – The Department of National Defense (DND) has moved to partially terminate a ₱1.2-billion chopper deal with foreign suppliers following allegations of anomalies raised by a senator.

A "Notice to Terminate" was sent on Wednesday, March 25, to the joint venture of US-based Rice Aircraft Services Inc and Canada-based Eagle Copters Ltd for failing to complete delivery of the 21 UH-1 choppers for the Philippine Air Force.

Only 8 of the 21 choppers have been delivered when it should have been completed in September 2014. The DND initially granted extensions.

"You failed to comply with the agreed schedule of requirement of the Contract Agreement which provides that the delivery should be within 180 calendar days upon opening of the Letter of Credit," the notice read.

The supplier has 7 days to respond to the DND's notice. "Failure to show cause within the provided period, either by inaction of default, shall cause the issuance of an order terminating the contract," the notice added.

Senator JV Ejercito put the chopper deal on the spotlight when he filed this month a Senate resolution seeking a probe into the chopper deal. He claimed that the project was "tailor-fitted" for a "favored bidder.

"The Senate should check if any violations were made on the procurement law in the purchase of these 21 helicopters. We have to look into this deal because P1.2 billion worth of choppers that cannot be used and have obsolete parts are disadvantageous to the AFP Modernization Program," said Ejercito, a member of the Senate committee on national defense and security.

Ejercito, in his resolution, cited reports from The Manila Times and the Manila Bulletin that uncovered alleged irregularities in the deal.

"These reports alleged that the UH-1D units that were delivered by the suppliers to the Philippine Air Force were non-compliant with the project contract's Terms of Reference. Furthermore, they have limited use due to some defects, thereby defeating the purpose of its acquisition and is a prima facie wastage of taxpayers' money," the resolution said.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines awarded the contract to the joint venture in December 2013 after 3 failed biddings. The project is part of the AFP modernization program.

The bidding process was led by a retired Air Force general Fernando Manalo, who is now the defense undersecretary for finance, munitions, installation and materiel. – with reports from Carmela Fonbuena/Rappler.com

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PBA: It's Blackwater!

Expansion team Blackwater closed out its campaign on a high note when it stunned playoff-bound Meralco, 84-72, last night in the PBA Commissioner’s Cup elimination round at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Import Marcus Douthit produced 27 points and 14 rebounds while center JP Erram scored a career-high 21 points, with seven rebounds and five blocks as the Elite finished their campaign with a 3-8 record.

Blackwater’s performance was obviously a marked improvement from the Philippine Cup when it failed to win in all 11 matches.

“Going into this game, regardless of being eliminated, gaining the experience and giving their (Elite players) hundred percent is part of the building process we are undergoing,” said Blackwater mentor Leo Isaac.

“Hopefully we can bring this to the next conference. We just wanted to end the second conference on a high note. We’ll enjoy the 10-day break, and then we’ll plunge back to practice on April 6.

“Maybe we can have a fresh start and new level of confidence (next conference),” added Isaac.

Reil Cervantes added 13 points off the bench since he was traded from Blackwater for Alex Nuyles.

Blackwater will have the luxury of signing an import with unlimited height for the Governors’ Cup since the team finished as one of the four-worst teams in the first two conferences.

Isaac said that while he is pleased with the performance of the 6-foot-10 Douthit, who took over from the injured Chris Charles, it is up to the management led by team owner Dioceldo Sy to decide whether to stick with the naturalized player of Gilas Pilipinas.

“Team management will meet with the coaches on Friday, by then baka may decision na,” said Isaac, who added that there is also a possibility for them to avail the Asian reinforcement.

“We have some names on our list, and if it pushes through, (we’re eyeing) a player from the Middle East na magaling siya lumaro. He played for his national team,” said Isaac, who refused to name the Asian import.

Meralco ended the elims with a 6-5 record, losing five of its final six games after a 5-0 start. The loss, however, proved meaningless for the Bolts as they had already secured a best-of-three quarterfinal duel with sister team NLEX Road Warriors.

The quarterfinals begin tomorrow at the Big Dome.

Jared Dillinger led Meralco with 15 points, Sean Anthony and Mike Cortez added 13 points apiece, while import Josh Davis had 11 and 20 boards.

Scores:

First Game

BLACKWATER 84 – Douthit 27, Erram 21, Cervantes 13, Heruela 7, Acuna 6, Bulawan 5, Gamalinda 3, Laure 2, Timberlake 0, Reyes 0, Golla 0.

MERALCO 72 – Dillinger 15, Anthony 13, Cortez 13, Davis 11, Wilson 7, Ferriols 5, Caram 3, Reyes 2, David 2, Buenafe 1, Ildefonso 0, Sena 0, Hugnatan 0, Macapagal 0.

Quarters: 26-23; 50-40; 66-46; 84-72.

Second Game

ALASKA 104 – James 29, Baguio 17, Abueva 16, Jazul 10, Hontiveros 9, Casio 5, Banchero 4, Thoss 4, Exciminiano 4, Manuel 2, Menk 2, Baclao 2, Eman 0, Dela Cruz 0.

GINEBRA 98 – Dunigan 32, Baracael 18, Aguilar 17, Tenorio 10, Urbiztondo 8, Slaughter 7, Caguioa 4, Monfort 2, Pena 0, Helterbrand 0, Ababou 0, Ellis 0.

Quarters: 29-23, 52-39, 78-69, 104-98 - Tempo

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Philippines to attain 7 to 8% economic growth in 2015: central bank

MANILA, Philippines (Xinhua) - Governor of central bank Amando M. Tetangco, Jr. said today that the government's 7 to 8 percent economic growth target in 2015 is attainable.

This is because "domestic demand remains firm and supported by brewing production efficiency and robust labor market dynamics," Tetangco said during the Euromoney Philippines Investment Forum.

He said the central bank is confident that the country will be able to attain the goal of an upward economic growth trajectory in an environment of price and financial stability because the bank will remain proactive in policy dialogue with stakeholders, preemptive in putting in place forward-looking policies, and prudent in adopting reforms.

The Philippine economy expanded by 6.1 percent last year, short of the government's 6.5 to 7.5 percent target and also slower than the 7.2 percent growth in 2013. However, this is the second fastest growth rate seen in Asia during the period.

Tetangco added that inflation should remain within 2 to 4 percent target for this year and the next, while liquidity is also expected to remain sufficient.

Despite the favorable prospects of the economy, he said the central bank continues to monitor risks to growth such as the uneven global output, uncertainty in oil prices, and the divergence in monetary policy settings across countries.

"Given the positive alignment between inflation growth and augmented government resources as a result of fiscal consolidation, both monetary and fiscal sectors have sufficient room to make policy adjustments as warranted," Tetangco said.   - philSTAR

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Senator Santiago backs Ombudsman, SC: "Gobenciong case" - Binay should leave Makati City hall

Mayor Junjun Binay vs Senator Miriam Santiago- Politics.com

Ombudsman not liable for acting quickly on Mayor Binay suspension—Santiago

MANILA, Philippines — Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales and other concerned officials were not liable for immediately implementing the suspension order on Makati City Mayor Jejomar Erwin “Junjun” Binay, Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago said on Wednesday.

Santiago was reacting to a contempt case filed by Binay against the Ombudsman and other officials for defying a temporary restraining order issued by the Court of Appeals on his suspension. It was the Office of the Ombudsman that issued the preventive suspension order on Binay in connection with the allegedly anomalous Makati City Hall 2 carpark building.

But Santiago pointed out that in the 2008 case of Gobenciong v. Court of Appeals, the Supreme Court ruled: “The Office of the Ombudsman can, as a matter of statutory empowerment, validly order the immediate execution of a preventive suspension after determining the propriety of the imposition, regardless of the remedy of reconsideration made available under the law to the suspended respondent.”

“Thus, the Ombudsman can order the immediate suspension of a sitting mayor, who is not allowed to plead that he needs time to file a motion for reconsideration,” the senator said in a statement.

Santiago said that in the Gobenciong case, the high tribunal rejected the argument that the sitting official was denied due process of law, just because the suspension was immediately implemented.

“In the Gobenciong case, the Supreme Court said there was no legal basis for the argument that immediate implementation of the preventive suspension would deny due process. In fact, the Supreme Court added that since preventive suspension is not a penalty for an administrative offense, preventive suspension can be imposed without prior hearing,” she said.

The SC, she said, denied the motion to cite the Ombudsman in contempt on the ground that it had “become moot and academic for the preventive suspension had been served.”

Under the Gobenciong ruling, Santiago said the Ombudsman could not be held in indirect contempt because under the Rules of Court there was no “disobedience of or resistance to a lawful writ of a court.”

“A contempt order usually arises according to the Rules of Court for ‘any improper conduct tending, directly or indirectly, to impede, obstruct, or degrade the administration of justice.’ It is not the case,” she said.

But Santiago also pointed to a 2011 case, Strategic Alliance Development Corp. v. Star Infrastructure Development Corp. where the Supreme Court held: “Although the general rule is to the effect that a writ of preliminary injunction cannot be issued against acts already fait accompli it has been held, however, that consummated acts which are continuing in nature may still be enjoined by the courts.”

She said this “apparent collision” between the 2008 Gobenciong case and the 2011 Strategic Alliance case should be resolved by the Court of Appeals.

One of the petitioners, she said, might also elevate the case on a petition for review on certiorari concerning a question of law to the Supreme Court, which has discretion on whether to pass upon the petition. - INQUIRER

 

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Filipino workers in Jordan advised to legalize stay

Overseas Filipino Workers waiting for their luggage at the carousel - image" globalbalita.com

Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who are illegally staying in Jordan were asked by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to avail of the 60-day amnesty to be able to correct their status in the host country.

Based on the report Labor Attache Florenda Herrera to Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz, Filipino workers who have lost their work visas, residency permits, and whose status are irregular, including those who are overstaying may avail of the program.

“I urge all OFWs whose stay in Jordan are irregular to heed the Jordan government’s offer of amnesty and legalize their stay. This is for your own good,” she said in a statement.

Baldoz also urge irregular OFWs in Jordan to take advantage of this opportunity by visiting the Labor Directorates of the Ministry of Labor in their places of stay “where they can fix their documents and correct their status.”

On the other hand, Herrera noted that the amnesty, which was approved by the Jordan Ministry of Labor, covers all foreign workers in the Kingdom, who had not left the country, but have received payments for their Social Security, i.e., their reimbursements of their contribution as a result of termination of employment.

Likewise, it includes first-time workers regardless of how they entered Jordan. The exception is restricted nationalities who must apply to the Ministry of Labor.

Also covered are migrant workers who entered Jordan with expired recruitment contracts, and did not complete the process of obtaining valid work permits; migrant workers who will transfer from one industry sector to another, such as a household service worker transferring to a semi-skilled occupation; and workers who have been sentenced with deportation, but has not been carried out at the start of the amnesty.

“As to the transferees, the exception are workers who transfer to the agriculture sector and those who transfer from the so-called Qualifying Industrial Zone to any other industry sector,” Herrera explained.

At the same time, she added that based on the provisions of the amnesty, Jordan will stop receiving requests for recruitment of all nationalities, except from workers for Qualifying Industrial Zones and domestic workers.

The Kingdom, however, will continue to process the adoption of the licensed professions, taking into consideration the agreed ratio of Jordanian workers against foreign workers.

As of the first quarter of 2014, the estimated number of Filipinos in Jordan is 29,515, of whom 16,519 are regular while 12,996 are irregular.

OFWs there are mostly domestic workers (17,429); professionals (3,505); semi-skilled (3,891); and other workers (3,120).

Filipino professionals are mostly hired as nurses, engineers, and IT consultants, while the highly-skilled are working as machine operators, heavy equipment mechanics, and welders.

The semi-skilled ones are mostly hotel workers and wellness and hospitality workers. - PNA - The Manila Times

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Singapore founder Lee Kuan Yew dead at 91, World leaders pay Tributes

Lee Kuan Yew- dies at 91- therealsingapore.com

Singapore founder Lee Kuan Yew dead at 91

Lee Kuan Yew, who founded modern Singapore and was both feared for his authoritarian tactics and admired for turning the city-state into one of the world’s richest nations, died Monday. He was 91.

Lee was admitted to Singapore General Hospital on Feb. 5 for pneumonia and was later put on life support. The prime minister’s office said he “passed away peacefully.”

Lee guided Singapore through a traumatic split with Malaysia in 1965 and helped transform the sleepy port city into a global trade and finance center. He stepped down in 1990.

President Obama called Lee a “visionary” and “true giant of history.”

IMF, World Bank chiefs send condolences

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) said the late Mr Lee Kuan Yew was a visionary statesman whose wisdom and leadership will be remembered by people all around the globe.

"It is with great sadness that I have learned of the passing of Lee Kuan Yew, Founding Father of Singapore. He was a visionary statesman whose uncompromising stand for meritocracy, efficiency and education transformed Singapore into one of the most prosperous nations in the world,'' said Ms Christine Lagarde, IMF managing director.

"His wisdom and leadership will be remembered by people all around the globe.

"On behalf of the International Monetary Fund, I extend our condolences to his family and the people of Singapore," she said in a statement.

World Bank Group President Jim Yong Kim also extended his "sincere condolences" to the people of Singapore and Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong on Mr Lee Kuan Yew's death.

"We will be forever grateful to the former Prime Minister for his role as a pioneer of development and the architect of modern Singapore. We were privileged to have had a close working relationship with him over several decades.

"The late Prime Minister is recognized around the world for transforming Singapore in a short time from an undeveloped nation to one of the most successful high-income countries in the world. He showed that a city-state with few natural resources could rapidly evolve into a global trading hub and financial powerhouse through education, integrated planning, and a highly trained civil service. He tackled corruption relentlessly and held public servants to the highest standards. Most importantly, he showed that economic development could provide opportunities and improve the lives of a country’s citizens," the statement from Mr Kim read.

Mr Lee, who was Singapore's first elected prime minister, died on Monday aged 91.

World leaders pay tributes to Lee Kuan Yew

A man reads tributes to Singapore's former prime minister Lee Kuan Yew, at the Singapore General Hospital on Monday. Lee died on Monday aged 91, triggering a flood of tributes to the man who oversaw the tiny city-state's rapid rise from a British colonial backwater to a global trade and financial center.- Reuters

MARCH 23:  World leaders expressed their condolences and paid tribute to Lee Kuan Yew, Singapore's first prime minister, who died on Monday aged 91.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi

"A far-sighted statesman and a lion among leaders, Mr Lee Kuan Yew's life teaches valuable lessons to everyone. News of his demise is saddening."

Former U.S. President Bill Clinton and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton

"Hillary and I mourn the passing of Lee Kuan Yew. Prime Minister Lee transformed Singapore into one of the world's strongest and most sustainable economies. He also firmly established his country as an important friend and partner of the United States.

"After leaving office, he continued to offer brilliant analysis and wise advice to those who sought it. We will always be grateful for our fascinating conversations with him over the years. Our thoughts are with Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, his entire family, and all the people of Singapore."

U.S. Vice President Joe Biden

"Lee was a visionary leader who spearheaded Singapore's economic growth and helped it become one of the most prosperous countries in the world today. He understood the importance of economic integration and effective governance to building a thriving, modern economy. He was a pragmatist, and sometimes uncompromising. But his commitment to delivering excellence in public service was exemplary."

Taiwan President Ma Ying-Jeou

"Lee was a solid friend to the Republic of China and played a key leadership role in promoting the development of bilateral relations.

"Lee was a visionary and world-class leader. Under his leadership, Singapore, in just 50 years, has developed into an important trade hub in Asia with impressive economic strength.

"Lee led an unpretentious life. His self discipline was very strict."

Indonesian President Joko Widodo

"The late former PM is a close friend of Indonesia, known as the founder of modern Singapore. A great leader and statesman who loves his people, he is also known as an influential political figure in Asia.

"Under his leadership, Singapore has transformed itself to be the main economic hub in Asia and brought itself to par with the other developed countries."

Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak

"I pay tribute to Mr Lee Kuan Yew's determination in developing Singapore from a new nation to the modern and dynamic city we see today. His achievements were great, and his legacy is assured."

Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott

"Today, we mourn the passing of a giant of our region. Fifty years ago, Lee Kuan Yew led a vulnerable, fledgling nation to independence. Today, thanks to his vision and determination, Singapore is one of the world's most successful countries.

"In Lee Kuan Yew's own words, Singapore's remarkable journey has been from 'third world to first'.

"Thanks to his leadership, Singapore is now one of the world's most prosperous nations, a financial powerhouse, and one of the world's easiest places to do business.

"Our region owes much to Lee Kuan Yew. Here in Australia and beyond, leaders sought and learned from his wise counsel."

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe

"As the founding father of Singapore, who helped to create the foundations of the prosperity that Singapore enjoys today, he was one of Asia's great leaders.

"I would like to offer my deepest condolences to Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and his family and also my deepest sympathies to the citizens of Singapore."

Philippine President Aquino extends solidarity with Singapore, pays tribute to Mr Lee Kuan Yew

Philippine President Benigno Aquino has extended the Filipino people's "solidarity with Singapore at this time of mourning", as he honoured Singapore's first prime minister Lee Kuan Yew. -- PHOTO: BLOOMBERG

Philippine President Benigno Aquino has extended the Filipino people's "solidarity with Singapore at this time of mourning", as he honoured Singapore's first prime minister Lee Kuan Yew.

"An era has passed, one upon which Singaporeans can look back on with deep pride and a sense of accomplishment," said Mr Aquino.

"Throughout his long life, as prime minister and senior minister, Mr Lee demonstrated an unswerving devotion to his country, turning it into a statement that would be an exemplar of efficient, modern and honest governance," he said.

He added: "The development of Singapore has earned it the respect of nations and peoples, including the tens of thousands of Filipinos who work there and visit the country."

Mr Aquino also extended his personal condolences to Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.

Philippine military consultant and defence analyst Jose Antonio Custodio said: "With Lee Kuan Yew's passing, Filipinos have one less statesman who frankly pointed out what exactly ails the Philippines."

A Philippine Foreign Ministry statement said: "The Philippines joins the Singaporean people in mourning the passing of their first Prime Minister and Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew. Mr Lee was a visionary statesman who built Singapore into an economic powerhouse and modern society that has been a positive force not only in the region but also in the world. His fortitude, political will and wisdom will continue to be an inspiration in the years to come."

In Manila, Singapore Philippine Association head Peter Tay said Mr Lee’s “transformative role and leadership in making Singapore the innovation capital that we all know today is immeasurable”.

“Mr Lee’s presence will be clearly missed,” added Mr Tay.

Sources:  NY Daily, Straitstimes, Hindu Business line,

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Manila Fashion Festival Day 3: Of post-punk poetry, bird migration, and love

Heart Evangelista-Escudero presents a gown by Mark Bumgarner during the third night of Manila Fashion Festival, March 21, 2015. Photo by Rhoy Cobilla, InterAksyon.com.

On the third night of Manila Fashion Festival fall/winter 2015 show, Art Personas’ CEO Ronnie Cruz shared that the biannual event is all about “selling, vision, and inspiration.”

“Manila Fashion Festival is all about the business of fashion; the vision of creating possibilities and where MFF would be; and about inspiration,” Cruz said in a welcome remark.

Big names in the fashion industry including Rhett Eala who is celebrating his 25 years in the fashion industry, Cheetah Rivera, Pablo Cabahug, Mark Bumgarner, and Art Personas’ ARIN conquered the runway on the third day of the fashion event.

Beauty queen Ariella Arida and actress-host Heart Evangelista-Escudero also struted the runway for Arin and Mark Bumgarner respectively.

Eclectic themes

The designers took inspiration from different themes, and Rhett Eala warmed up the stage; showing his collection entitled Post-punk Poet that was “inspired by the music of Jay Z and Lauryn Hill, the cultural styling featured in Osaka and London, as well as the essence of the tribes of punks and Mongols.”

Composed of tops, pants, sweatshirts, and dresses for men and women, with a fusion of ethnic, athletic, and sporty shapes, Eala used neutral colors of black, white, and gray accentuated with a pop of chartreuse. Detailed hand embroidery as well as metallic embellishments can also be noticed on Eala’s pieces.

A model presents Rhett Eala’s Fall/Winter 2015 collection for men on the third day of Manila Fashion Festival, March 21, 2015. Photo by Rhoy Cobilla, InterAksyon.com.

From punk, Cheetah Rivera took the audience in an adventure with nature with her collection she calle Aviona.

Inspired by the “great migration of long distance wandering birds,” Rivera’s Aviona featured gowns and dresses with  detailed embroideries of colorful birds in flight. Neutral colors of white, black, nudes, navy blue,and  indigo were accentuated with embroideries of birds in loud colors of pink, red, and orange.

Art Personas’ ARIN also explored on the punk movement with the collection entitled Pretty Vacant. Mostly for women, ARIN’s collection “embodies rawnes and edge, inspired by the diverse era of the punk movement.” Mostly ready-to-wear pieces for women that are sporty and boyish, the collection are casual wears that were made for the dynamic individuals who want comfortable wear.

The collection, some in patterned fabrics, were composed of tops, pants, coats, and dresses, which were moslty in colors of red, white, and black.

Sporty met class in Cabahug’s collection he called Sporty Luxe. Exploring on the sporty look, Pablo Cabahug’s pieces were inspired “by sporty silhouttes, of shapes that embody luxury and freshness.”

For men and women, Cabahugs pieces were composed of jackets, dresses, pants, tops, and skirts that were mostly in neutral colors of black, white, and nude.

‘Sporty meets class; in Pablo Cabahug’s pieces for men and women. Photo by Rhoy Cobilla, InterAksyon.com

Closing the show was Mark Bumgarner who showed his collection he called as L’Amour. His pieces “explored romantic silhouttes,” and was “inspired by the essence of love.”

Mostly in pastels and red, the long gowns used luxurious fabrics that were cut in intricate shapes, which created movement and fluid effect.

With the palette used, and details such as floral embellishments and beadworks, Bumgarner’s works are very feminine and fits a princess-look.

Today, Sunday, the festival culminates its Fall/Winter 2015 presentation with the collations of Banggo Niu, Esme Palaganas, Tony Evan, and Bea Samson at 5 p.m. Then, at 7 p.m., Mark Tamayo, Sassa Jimenez, Ziggy Savella, Vania Romoff, and Jaz Cerezo present the last collations of Manila Fashion Festival Fall/Winter 2015. - Interaksyon.com

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Resorts World owner doubled net profit for ₱63.9 billion in 2014

Resort World Manila - image: travelandtourworld.com

Resorts World owner doubled net profit in '14

Resorts World Manila (RWM) owner and operator Travelers International Hotel Group Inc. doubled its net profit last year to ₱5.45 billion mainly by keeping a tight lid on expenses.

Travellers, a partnership between the group of property tycoon Andrew Tan and the Genting group of Malaysia, disclosed to the Philippine Stock Exchange that for 2014, it "focused on delivering quality earnings to shareholders by channeling efforts to the growing core businesses and markets, while achieving operational efficiencies."

Gross revenue for the year amounted to ₱31.6 billion, or about 5 percent lower than the previous year due to the same pace of drop in gaming revenues to ₱28.38 billion. Nongaming businesses such as from hotel as well as food and beverage contributed ₱2.26 billion compared to the previous year's ₱2.5 billion.

In the gaming segment, Travelers reported growth in volume in all segments except in the VIP (very important person) or high-roller segment. Blended "win rate" showed a recovery and improved in the second half compared to the first half, the disclosure said. A casino's "win" or "hold" rate is based on the element of luck but is also affected by the spread of table limits, a player's skill and resources and amount of time spent in the casino.

Travelers deployed an average 291 gaming tables, 1,837 slot machines and 210 electronic table game (ETG) machines last year.

On the nongaming business, Travelers reported that the three hotels in Newport City had a higher average occupancy rate of 89 percent last year compared to 71 percent in 2013. Revenues from hotel, food, beverage and other operating income summed up to ₱3.19 billion. The company said it continued to make full use of its facilities to drive gaming patronage.

"Creating shareholder value was our main objective for 2014, which we achieved through quality earnings and operating efficiencies," said Travelers president Kingson Sian.

General and administrative expenses were contained at ₱11.9 billion compared to ₱14.12 billion in the previous year.

Total assets increased to ₱63.9 billion from ₱61.2 billion while total liabilities declined to P24.8 billion from ₱27.8 billion. The company remained on a net cash position of ₱4.4 billion as of the end of 2014.

Last year, Travelers spent ₱5.9 billion for the ongoing phase 2 and 3 projects of Resorts World Manila. The Marriott Grand Ballroom is set to formally open in July this year while the Marriott West Wing, which will add 227 room keys, is due for delivery by the end of 2015. Phase 3 complex is slated for turnover by the end of 2017 as planned. - INQUIRER

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Rain or Shine holds off Kia, locks top spot

PJ Ramos of KIA (light) vs Paul Lee and JR Quinahan of Rain or Shine (dark). PBA IMAGE by Nuki Sabio

MANILA, Philippines – Rain or Shine survived Kia, 119-99, to clinch the top spot in the 2015 PBA Commissioner’s Cup Sunday at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Import Wayne Chism had it going from the outside going 6-of-12 from long range to finish with 28 points that went with 12 rebounds to lead the Elasto Painters, whose 27-point lead was cut to eight before regrouping.

“We had problems all night long with the size and the strength and the power of PJ Ramos,” said ROS head coach Yeng Guiao. “But I guess we were able to limit the contributions of their locals that’s why we were able to put up a good lead and protect that lead.”

“The objective really is if he (Ramos) is going to make the points, let’s control the output of their locals and we were able to do that,” added Guiao.

PJ Ramos nearly scored half of the Carnival’s output with 45 points while shooting 59% from the field on top of 21 rebounds in another dominating performance but his teammates combined to shoot for only 23-of-59.

Raymond Almazan came up big for the Painters with 16 points on 6-of-9 shooting and nine rebounds in less than 20 minutes of action. Paul Lee added 14 points, five rebounds and six assists.

The last time Rain or Shine, which locked up the No.1 spot at 8-3 due to superior quotient, finished atop the standings at the end of the elimination round it won the 2012 Governors’ Cup.

“If it’s a good sign for us, we’ll take motivation from that and treat it exactly what it is – a positive sign. That’s also going to give us encouragement going into our preparations,” Guiao said.

Kia came to within eight, 96-88, on a tough turn around by Reil Cervantes with still 8:33 left after trailing by 27, 71-44, late in the second quarter.

But Ryan Araña hit a corner three and after a jumper by Ramos, Almazan scored eight straight points in one minute to restore order, 104-90, with 6:16 remaining. - Inquirer

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Aquino blames "political enemies" for spreading rumours about his health

Philippine President Benigno Aquino III - image source: getrealphilippines.com

Says anyone can see if he has stitches on his head

Manila: President Benigno Aquino blamed “political enemies” for spreading false rumours that he fainted and was unconscious until doctors gave him oxygen at the presidential palace last Friday, adding that he was out of town last Friday and remained active on Saturday.

“I am not new in politics. I’m torn between responding (or not) to people who started it. I admit I could not stop those who wish me ill. They have already prepared permutations of the false stories that they have started to spin against me,” said Aquino, but did not give more details.

“I started looking for the basis of these rumours, which I might have missed, but I never saw one,” said Aquino, adding, “I don’t think I was faltering in raising the flag and doing other things during the commemoration of the opening of Emilio Aguinaldo Museum in Kawit, Cavite last Friday.”

“Because of my short hair, anyone can see if I have stitches (on my head or nape after I allegedly collapsed last Friday). Touch my head, it has no hematoma,” Aquino said.

Noting what he would do next to defend himself, Aquino said, “My mother once said we should pray for people who think that way [against other people].” He added, “In contrast, those who trust me have open eyes, ears, and mind (and would not malign me with rumours).”

After he cancelled a short-notice press conference with beat reports after lunch of Saturday, Aquino said he was at the firing range in Malacañang on the same day.

Bureau of Internal Revenue Commissioner Kim Henares and Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alacal were with him at the firing range, he said, adding they all had dinner at Gloria Maris, a restaurant at the Gateway Mall of Araneta Centre in Cubao, suburban Quezon City on Saturday evening.

Palace spokesperson Edwin Lacierda also sent text messages asking about these allegations, Aquino admitted. Reporters quoted Lacierda and deputy spokesperson Abigail Valte’s who were asked about the president’s state of health.

Aquino allegedly passed out and was nearly unconscious after a bout of heavy cough. Doctors gave him oxygen at the House of Dreams, his official residence in Malacanang, the presidential palace.

Since he was elected in 2010, Aquino never gave up heavy smoking.

The Philippine Constitution calls for daily issuance of the president’s medical record once he gets seriously ill.

The vice-president takes over the post of an incapacitated president.- Gulf News

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Philippines will buy additional 24 new Combat Aircrafts making 36; additional for 12 FA-50

Eurofighter Typhoon (European Union)

Phl to buy 24 more combat aircraft from South Korea

WASHINGTON – The Philippines is planning to purchase 24 more combat aircraft, adding to the 12 FA-50 fighter jets it had ordered from South Korea in 2014, the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) said.

It did not specify when or from whom the aircraft would be ordered.

The FA-50s were the first order by the Philippines for advanced combat aircraft in decades amid the increasing tensions with China over disputed territories in the South China Sea.

The SIPRI report from Stockholm on Monday said the five biggest weapons exporters in 2010-14 were the United States, Russia, China, Germany and France, and the five biggest importers were India, Saudi Arabia, China, United Arab Emirates and Pakistan.

The top five exporters were responsible for almost 74 percent of all arms exports.

The report said many states in Southeast Asia significantly modernized and expanded their fleets of combat aircraft in 2010-2014.

Singapore received 32 F-15E jets from the United States in 2010-14 and in 2014 ordered six A330 tanker aircraft from Spain.

Vietnam received 24 Su-30 fighter jets from Russia and eight more are on order.

Indonesia received three Su-27 and six Su-30 aircraft from Russia, the first five of 24 F-16C aircraft from the US and 16 T-50 light combat aircraft from South Korea. It has placed an order for 50 KFX combat aircraft from South Korea and has plans to procure a large number of new combat and tanker aircraft.

Thailand received 12 Gripen-C combat aircraft from Sweden.

Malaysia is looking at several potential suppliers for a planned order of 18 new combat aircraft and has four A400M tanker/transport aircraft on order from Spain. - Yahoo News

Top 10 powerful Combat Aircrafts to chose from:

No.1 Lockheed Martin / Boeing F-22 Raptor (USA)

No.2 Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet (USA)

No. 3 Eurofighter Typhoon (European Union)

No. 4 Dassault Rafale (France)

No. 5 Sukhoi Su-27 (Russia)

No. 6 McDonnel Douglas F-15 Eagle (USA)

No. 7 Mikoyan MiG-31 (Russia)

No.8 Lockheed Martin F-16 Fighting Falcon (USA)

No.9 Saab JAS 39 Gripen (Sweden)

No.10 Chengdu J-10 (China)

Would china allow the Philippines to order this Chengdu J-10 at a cheaper price, on time delivery, safe without self destructing remote control device and purely business or Politics will reign? - Source: Military-today.com

 

 

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Mayor Duterte got 34% Approval Rating for Philippine Presidential race in 2016

Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte. Pic: AP

Southern Philippines Mayor Duterte emerges as presidential prospect

If the presidential elections were to be held solely in the island of Mindanao in the Philippines, Davao City’s Mayor Rodrigo Duterte would be the runaway winner.

According to the Pulse Asia survey, Duterte will win 34 percent of the Mindanao votes with Vice President Binay coming in second with 22 percent if the elections were held today.

Estrada, who previously lorded the Mindanao votes, was down to 18 percent while Grace Poe has 11.

The Asia Pulse survey was conducted on March 1-7.

Duterte has also inched up in the nationwide presidential survey with 12 percent, good enough for 3rd and 4th – tied with Estrada. That is just after less than 2 months of low-profile exposure using federalism as platform.

It is the first time Duterte figured prominently in a major survey.

Binay’s lead has improved from 26 percent in November 2014– 29 percent.

Poe is 2nd in voting preference with 14 percent.

This is a significant leap for Duterte who only in December was not even in the list of possible presidential candidates for 2016.

The Davao City mayor, who will turn 70 on March 28, however, is lagging far behind in the National Capital Region and the rest of Luzon, with only 7 and 4 percent voting preference respectively.

He was likewise only a distant 4th in Visayas with 9 per cent voter preference.

Mindanao is the second largest island in the Philippines.

Nobody from Mindanao has ever made it to Malacañang.

The closest was the late Vice President Emmanuel Pelaez who hailed from Misamis Oriental. Pelaez was VP to Ferdinand Marcos from 1961 to 1965.

Duterte is neck and neck with Binay over voter preference among the ABC class, but Binay continues to maintain his grip among D and E voters.

The vice president is likewise still leading the pack in NCR, Luzon and Visayas.

Maverick

Duterte is seen as a political maverick although he is officially a member of the PDP-Laban, a Mindanao-grown political party that is also the former political party of Binay.

The controversial Davao City mayor has been courted by all previous post-Cory Aquino Philippine presidents either as a cabinet member or part of the administration’s senatorial slate. The pistol-packing Duterte however politely declined all overtures saying he is not cut for a national position. Last year, he even threatened to shoot those who are egging him to run for president.

He once berated the US Federal Bureau of Investigation for spiriting out from the hospital an American who was injured in a bomb blast inside his rented hotel room in Davao City.

At the height of national indignation over the execution of Filipina overseas contract worker Flor Contemplacion, he led protesters in Davao City by burning the Singaporean flag.

Duterte likewise threatened to declare a revolutionary government if only to solve corruption in the country.

Listening tour

Early this year, he was prevailed to soften his stand against running for the presidency.

He used federalism as a platform for a nationwide listening tour which he started only this year.

He has been invited in Bicol, Pangasinan, Baguio, Manila, Iloilo and Leyte where he was mobbed by supporters and the media.

While he has not officially declared his intention to seek the presidency, a source said a survey that will land him no lower that fourth and in double digit approval will change his mind.

Mindanaoan in the senate

Meanwhile, at least three other Mindanaoans are prominently figuring in the same Pulse Asia survey.

Former Senator Miguel Zubiri of Bukidnon is ranked 7th in the survey while Pacquiao and incumbent Senator Teofisto Guingona III are battling it out for the 11-17th place.

Guingona is also from Bukidnon while Pacquiao, who is now in the US training for his May 2 fight, is a member of the House of Representative representing the lone district of Sarangani.

Pacquiao is expected to throw his hat into the 2016 senatorial race. - Asian Correspondent

Philippines' Introduce Advanced Safety Reflectorized Vehicle Plate Codes - With Location Identity

New vehicle plates with advanced security features. - Image: Gov.ph

LTO: Time to change old license plates

New motor vehicle plates available 45 days after registration renewal

New license plates with multiple security features, launched by the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) and the Land Transportation Office (LTO) last year, will be available to replace old license plates beginning tomorrow, January 5, in line with government’s license plate standardization program.

“It’s time to change old license plates with new ones. Tomorrow, we begin phasing out the 9 various designs currently in use with modern, standardized, and security feature-packed license plates,” Secretary of Transportation Jun Abaya said.

“We advise the public that their new license plates will be ordered upon renewing their motor vehicle registrations beginning this year. The new plates will be available 45 days after ordering them,” added LTO’s chief, Assistant Secretary Alfonso Tan Jr.

Since May 2014, the LTO has been issuing new license plates to brand new vehicles that were being registered for the first time. January 2015 marks the start of replacing old or existing license plates with the new ones.

The new license plates for private motor vehicles sport a black-and-white design, similar to those in most countries around the world. They have tamper-resistant locks and screws which permanently attach the plates to the vehicle, preventing their removal and transfer. They also feature reflectorized sheeting to make them visible from afar and from any angle.

The permanent “third plate” windshield sticker replaces the current yearly sticker, and will indicate the vehicle’s license plate number and other relevant registration information. It cannot be peeled off without leaving these pieces of information on the windshield.

“These new plates will help improve road safety by curbing illegal practices such as tanggal-plaka or plate removal and switching, which is prevalent in carnapping and colorum operations. They will help enforcers catch criminals, and enhance safety for the public,” Abaya explained.

“Just to remind those who have old license plates: the new plates will not change your alphanumeric combination. Your existing plate numbers will be retained. Only vehicles registered for the first-time will be issued the new 3-letter 4-number combination,” Tan said.

The entire standardization or replacement program will last until 2017. New plates will cost the same as existing plates, which is P 450.00 for 4-wheeled motor vehicles. Once replaced, the old license plates will no longer be valid for any purpose, but may be kept by their owners. - Gov.ph

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National Defense to face Probe for buying Junked and Garbage worth ₱1.2-billion 21 UH-1 combat helicopters

JV Ejercito wants to probe purchase of ₱1.2-b choppers

SENATOR Joseph Victor Ejercito on Monday filed Senate Resolution No. 128 which seeks to investigate the alleged P1.2-billion chopper deal involving 21 UH-1 combat helicopters purchased by the Department of National Defense (DND).

Ejercito said he wants the Senate to dig deeper on news reports about the "tailor-fitted" procurement of 21 units of  the refurbished Huey helicopters by DND for a "favored bidder."

He added that the quality of the delivered and accepted parts of the purchased helicopters should also be investigated.

Ejercito said the Senate should ascertain if any violations were committed in the procurement law in the purchase of the 21 helicopters.

"We have to look into this deal because ₱1.2-billion worth of choppers that cannot be used and have obsolete parts are disadvantageous to the AFP Modernization Program," said Ejercito, a member of the Senate committee on national defense and security.

Reports had said that the contract was awarded to the Joint Venture of Rice Aircraft Services, Inc and Eagle Copters, Ltd. on December 28, 2013 for a bid price of ₱1.25 billion, which Ejercito said were "non-compliant" with the project contract's Terms of Reference (TOR).

He also noted that the helicopters have limited use due to some defects which he said defeats the purpose of its acquisition.

Aside from the prima facie wastage of taxpayers' money, Ejercito noted that with the alleged defects of the delivered helicopters,  the lives of the country's Air Force men and women, who are the end users, are put at risk.

Citing reports, the senator said only seven of the 21 UH-1D helicopters have been accepted, one is undergoing testing and acceptance, and thirteen are still in various stages of testing and assembly.

He likewise said that despite the delay in the completion of the turn-over of the helicopters and the various violations made by the supplier, which are clearly disparaging and prejudicial to the government, the DND did not terminate the contract.  Up to now, it still allows the supplier to deliver.         

Ejercito added that the government was denied the chance to negotiate the project to qualified suppliers who can deliver the best suited helicopters for the combat missions of the Philippine Air Force.

"The principles of transparency and accountability must always be ensured for what is at stake here is the taxpayers' money," he said. - Manila Standard Today

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