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Policy Brief on Philippines Broadband Recommends Open Access Model for Broadband Market
On February 24, the Joint Foreign Chambers of the Philippines (JFC) and the Internet Society of the Philippines (ISP) presented a policy note recommending that, in addition to reforming existing laws, the Philippines adopt an open access business model to allow new internet service providers to enter the broadband market. According to Philippine Broadband: A Policy Brief, which was drafted by Arangkada Philippines and supported by the US-ASEAN Business Council, the Public Services Act of 1936 (CA 146) and the Public Telecommunications Policy Act (RA 7925) have placed high barriers to entry for new, independent local and foreign broadband service providers. CA 146 classifies telecommunications as a public service governed by the Constitutional cap of 40% foreign ownership, and RA 7925 requires congressional approval for a telecommunications provider as a franchise. As a result of the prohibitive policies, the Philippines Long Distance Phone Company and Globe Telecom, Inc. have dominated the broadband wholesale market by controlling the network infrastructure, deterring downstream internet service providers (ISP) from widely distributing network coverage while keeping prices high for consumers. The policy brief recommended that the Philippines adopt an open access model and reform laws to open up the telecommunications industry to local and foreign players by providing incentives to attract investments in broadband, such as by encouraging infrastructure sharing of internet access points and creating a Department of Information Communications Technology to consistently address industry issues. The report expresses hopes that a more competitive market will lower costs for service providers and improve the quality of internet in the Philippines, which currently has the second slowest average download speed in the Asia Pacific at 2.8 Mbps. Internet speed and widespread availability will become increasingly important as the government begins to adopt improvements to its information technology systems to cater to the 90% of Filipinos who access the internet via mobile data. The Philippine Broadband brief is the latest publication by the Arangkada Philippines Project, an initiative launched by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines, and the JFC. The project's aim is to advance the Arangkada Philippines 2010 recommendations, which seek to generate US$75 billion (P3.5 trillion) in foreign investment, ten million jobs, and over US$21.2 billion (P1 trillion) in revenue for the Philippine economy by 2020.
Philippines to Propose Monitoring, Information Sharing to Help MSMEs Enter Global Market at APEC Senior Officials Meeting
At the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) First Senior Officials Meeting (SOM1) in Lima, Peru, on March 3-4, officials from the Philippine Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Department of Foreign Affairs plan to propose a template to assess member economies’ implementation of the Boracay Action Agenda to Globalize MSMEs (BAA-MSME), which aims to encourage greater participation by micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSME) in regional and global markets. The upcoming APEC SOM1 will focus on this year’s theme for the forum--“Quality Growth and Human Development”—with discussions focusing on supporting regional economic integration, fostering quality economic growth, strengthening the regional food market, modernizing MSMEs, and supporting human capital development. In submitting a template to assess and monitor the BAA-MSME up to 2020, the Philippine delegation intends to build upon the success of the adoption of the action agenda last year when the Philippines served as APEC host. The BAA-MSME aims to increase MSMEs' participation in regional and international markets through either their integration into global supply and value chains or through their role as direct exporters of finished goods and services. The action agenda's implementation plan, which also won the endorsement of APEC member economies last year, proposes utilizing trade facilitation, trade finance, and e-commerce as ways to reduce the trade and non-trade barriers that currently restrict MSMEs' participation in international markets. The delegation also plans to advocate for increased regional cooperation through the APEC Services Cooperation Framework, which seeks to increase competitiveness of local enterprises in the service sector, and to call for increased information sharing for greater transparency in trade and tariff information through the online APEC Trade Repository. The goals of the BAA-MSME broadly parallel those of the DTI, which views MSMEs as sources of human capital development and drivers of more inclusive economic growth in the Philippines; according to DTI, MSMEs are “the backbone of economic development,” as they account for at least 99 percent of businesses in the country and collectively employ over 50 percent of the workforce.
Philippines Ratifies WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement in Effort to Streamline Customs Procedures
On February 24, the Philippines ratified the World Trade Organization (WTO) Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA), a framework to speed up the movement, release, and clearance of goods across borders, and cut down costs for consumers and producers. The Philippine government must next officially notify the WTO of the ratification by submitting an instrument of acceptance to the organization’s secretariat in Geneva, Switzerland. The TFA is part of the “Bali Package,” negotiations which were concluded at the Bali Ministerial Conference in December 2013; the “Bali Package” itself is part of the larger Doha Development Agenda, which aims to revise trade rules to lower trade barriers and to address issues that developing countries face in implementing current WTO agreements. The TFA streamlines and harmonizes border procedures of WTO countries through provisions such as advance ruling, pre-arrival processing, electronic payments, and promotion of the single-window. In terms of cost savings for lower middle income countries like the Philippines, estimates indicate streamlining border procedures are likely to reduce costs by as much as 3.9 percent, while simplifying and reducing the number of trade documents are likely to reduce cost by as much as 3.5 percent. The TFA will enter into force after two-thirds of WTO members have completed ratification within their countries; 70 out of the 162 WTO members have ratified the TFA as of March 1. The TFA is consistent with local reforms that the Philippine Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Bureau of Customs have been pushing. One such reform is the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA). The CMTA, currently awaiting President Aquino’s signature, will speed up import and export clearance and improves transparency in the Bureau of Customs. The TFA is also consistent with DTI’s broader policy goal of enacting reforms and streamlining rules and procedures to encourage micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to play a bigger role in regional and international markets and further integrate into global supply chains. According to the DTI, the potential for Philippine MSMEs to play a larger role in global supply and value chains is evident in that the country logs a 56 percent overall participation rate as measured by shares of foreign value added in total exports, which makes the Philippines a key processing hub.
Andre “Raj” Palacios Appointed New Executive Director of the Public-Private Partnership Center of the Philippines
President Benigno Aquino III appointed Andre “Raj” Palacios as the new Executive Director of the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Center of the Philippines on March 1, 2016. The former Executive Director of the PPP Center, Cosette V. Canilao, submitted her resignation on February 11, citing pressing family concerns; her resignation takes effect March 8. Canilao reportedly recommended Palacios, who has served as an adviser for the PPP Center since January 2015, in her resignation letter. Prior to his time at the PPP Center, Palacios worked at the World Bank in Washington, D.C., and at the Philippine mission to the World Trade Organization in Geneva, Switzerland. He also served as general counsel of the Millennium Challenge Account Philippines and Assistant Secretary at the Office of the Chief Presidential Legal Counsel from March 2003 to May 2004. Under the leadership of Canilao, who first took over the PPP Center’s Executive Director position in October 2011, the center awarded 12 projects—twice as many as under the previous three administrations. This sharp increase in the number of awarded projects is indicative of the emphasis the Aquino administration has placed on encouraging private sector participation in the country’s infrastructure development, with the PPP program given a key role in the administration’s Philippine Development Plan 2011-2016. The change in leadership at the PPP Center is unlikely to affect the organization’s operations. The center hopes to complete the construction on at least five deals were awarded before the end of President Aquino’s term in June, and it is currently marketing another 60 deals to foreign investors.
Philippine SEC Ownership Disclosure Rule Delayed
On February 15, new Philippine Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) rules requiring stock brokers and securities dealers to disclose beneficial owners of securities were temporarily blocked by a local court until arguments can be made. The controversial rules make up 42 provisions in the 2015 Implementing Rules and Regulations of the Securities Regulation Code (2015 SRC Rules). The court challenge was lodged by the Philippine Association of Brokers and Dealers Inc. (PASBDI). PASBDI believes that certain provisions of the new rules are contrary to the constitution, arguing that the new framework denied them due process and impaired the obligation of contracts. In addition to the disclosure rule, PASBDI is also challenging provisions that require certain information technology plans, business continuity plans, and internal controls as pre-requisites for registration. Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) President and CEO, Hans Sicat, who is not party to the PASBDI suit, claims the rules are nearly impossible to comply with. “The issue, if you look at it not just from a market operator’s perspective, if you look at it from a mutual fund, a bank and all that . . . [for] the requirement of a beneficial ownership the nth level is close to impossible to actually find out,” Mr. Sicat said. According to SEC Chair Teresita Herbosa, the amendments were “intended to enhance investor protection, address regulatory gaps, strengthen the market and regulatory structures, and adopt global best practices;” Herbosa also said that the SEC would ask the court to reconsider the temporary block. According to the SEC, 88 of 133 brokerages had already complied with the 2015 SRC Rules. The new disclosure rules are rooted in recent Supreme Court decisions, where the SEC was ordered to better monitor foreign ownership of industries on the Foreign Investment Act’s Negative Lists. The 2015 SRC Rules, which took effect on November 9, 2015, are available at this link and the Securities Regulation Code is available at this link.
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| Regional Affairs
Philippines attends counter-terrorism meeting in Thailand PhilStar 2nd Mar 2016
The Philippines joined 16 other countries in a three-day counter-terrorism meeting held in Chang Mai, Thailand. The Interpol meeting in Thailand attended by 43 law enforcement and counter-terrorism officers from 16 countries addressed the emerging terrorism trends and information-sharing on foreign terrorist fighters throughout the Asia-Pacific region. “The Bangkok terror attack last August, followed by a string of incidents in France, Indonesia, Malaysia and elsewhere demonstrated the current threat posed by both individuals and terrorist networks,” head of the Interpol National Central Bureau in Thailand Police Major General Apichat Suriboonya said.
Philippines calls on China: Respect Hague ruling PhilStar 29th Feb 2016
The Philippines on Monday called on China to respect the forthcoming decision of the Permanent Court of Arbitration on the case connected to the South China Sea dispute. "As we presume to be responsible states, the Philippines, as well as the international community, are asking China to respect the forthcoming ruling of the Arbitral Tribunal and together advance an international rules-based regime," Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario said in a statement. This follows the statement of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, accusing the Philippines of "political provocation" in seeking international arbitration over the sea row.
Central banks back in focus after G-20 meeting Business World 29th Feb 2016
The widely predicted failure of G-20 leaders to agree on bold new steps to reinvigorate the world economy at a meeting in Shanghai last weekend put the onus firmly back on central bankers. But after years of increasingly desperate attempts to kick-start growth, there is fear among bankers and top finance officials that monetary policy is running out of effective ammunition and future stimulus efforts could even be harmful. “Monetary policy is extremely accommodative to the point that it may even be counterproductive in terms of negative side effects on banks, policies and growth,” German Finance Minister Wolfgang Schaeuble said at the G-20 meeting.
ASEAN ministers raise concern, call for non-militarization in South China Sea Manila Bulletin 29th Feb 2016
Southeast Asian nations have expressed serious concern about growing international tension over disputed waters in the South China Sea. China claims most of the sea but Southeast Asian countries Malaysia, the Philippines, Brunei, and Vietnam have rival claims. Friction has increased over China’s recent deployment of missiles and fighter jets to the disputed Paracel island chain. “Ministers remained seriously concerned over recent and ongoing developments,” the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) said in a statement after a regular meeting of the group’s foreign ministers in Laos. Land reclamation and escalating activity have increased tensions and could undermine peace, security and stability in the region, ASEAN said in the statement.
BIMP-EAGA: Transport is main hurdle Business World 28th Feb 2016
Connectivity by air or sea transport has been identified as the key factor for realizing the growth blueprint adopted by the Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines-East ASEAN Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) for the next 10 years. More than 300 delegates from the sub-regional grouping within the Association of Southeast Nations (ASEAN) attended the three-day Strategic Planning Meeting (SPM) here last week where they concluded that connectivity remains the major challenge to the EAGA 2025 Vision that was agreed upon in December. “Most of the participants had to travel 10-15 hours just to get to Davao City because there is no direct transportation available,” Romeo M. Montenegro, director for Investments Promotions and Public Affairs of the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA), said in an interview at the end of the SPM last Friday.
Transnational crime booming across SE Asia: UN Manila Bulletin 25th Feb 2016
Transnational crime is booming in Southeast Asia, the UN warned Thursday, aided by rapid regional economic integration and patchy cross-border police work. The problem is so acute that the UN estimates illegal trade across East Asia and the Pacific is now worth more than $100 billion — more than the combined GDP’s of Myanmar, Laos and Cambodia. The stark assessment comes after the 10-nation Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) launched its EU-inspired regional economic bloc in December aimed at boosting trade and attracting more investment.
PHL to propose tracking APEC progress on MSMEs Business World 24th Feb 2016
THE PHILIPPINES will propose a “reporting template” for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) in assessing the progress of member economies’ initiative to help micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) participate in global trade.
National Affairs
China: Ships have left disputed Spratlys atoll PhilStar 3rd Mar 2016
Chinese vessels have left Quirino (Jackson) Atoll near Palawan after completing their mission to remove a grounded Filipino fishing vessel in the area, Beijing’s foreign ministry said yesterday as it reiterated China’s indisputable sovereignty over the atoll. Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei said China’s Ministry of Transport had sent the vessels that Filipino fishermen said were preventing them from dropping their nets in the atoll. “To guarantee safety of navigation and of work conditions, China urged fishing vessels near the site to leave,” Hong said.
PHL risks return to dirty money watch list Business World 2nd Mar 2016
THE PHILIPPINES is in danger of returning to the “grey list” of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) amid reports that casinos in the country have been used to launder millions of dollars, the head of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) said. On the sidelines of the Economic Journalists Association of the Philippines Induction Ceremony on Tuesday night, SEC Chair Teresita J. Herbosa confirmed that the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) has launched an investigation on a news report that $100 million in illegal funds were coursed through the country’s financial system.
DOF: Higher capital goods imports point to faster growth PhilStar 2nd Mar 2016
Despite lackluster global trade, capital goods imports pushed up over-all figures last year and are likely to propel economic growth in 2016, the chief economist of the Department of Finance (DOF) said. "The continued increase in imports of capital goods suggests that the country's import sector is mainly driven by capital demand rather than consumption demand," Finance Undersecretary Gil Beltran said in an economic bulletin. "This signifies that imports boost continuing expansion of productive capacity and signal robust economic growth ahead," he said last Tuesday.
World Bank lists policy notes for next president to achieve inclusive growth Manila Bulletin 2nd Mar 2016
The World Bank has seven policy notes for the successor of President Aquino to ensure an inclusive economic growth. At the fifth Arangkada Philippines Forum in Pasay City Tuesday, World Bank Poverty Reduction and Economic Management East Asia and the Pacific Lead Economist Rogier van den Brink, said the next Philippine president must focus on agriculture and small and medium enterprises (SMEs), launch reforms on rice policy, labor force, budget, increase tax revenues and promote transparency and accountability. Van den Brink noted that these recommendations will push the government to achieve inclusive growth. Inclusive growth, he stressed should be more than growth, but a resilient economic expansion with greater returns on labor.
Philippine officials say China blocked access to disputed South China Sea atoll Reuters 2nd Mar 2016
China sent several ships to a disputed atoll in the South China Sea, preventing Filipino fishermen from accessing traditional fishing grounds and raising tensions in the volatile region, Philippine officials said on Wednesday. China had sent as many as seven ships to Quirino Atoll, also known as Jackson Atoll, in recent weeks, said Eugenio Bito-onon Jr, the mayor of nearby Pagasa Island in the Spratly Islands. The Spratlys are the most contested archipelago in the South China Sea, a resource-rich region and critical shipping lane linking North Asia to Europe, South Asia and the Middle East.
Peso expected to get election lift Business World 29th Feb 2016
“We’re expecting a positive impact from the elections just like what we saw in 1998, 2004, 2010,” BDO Unibank, Inc. Chief Market Strategist Jonathan L. Ravelas said in a telephone interview. The Philippines held national elections in those three years. A year after the 1998 presidential elections, the peso appreciated by 4.65% vis-a-vis the US dollar. Following the 2004 and 2010 elections, the peso strengthened by 1.76% and 4.16%, respectively.
Foreign investment pledges rise in 2015 Business World 29th Feb 2016
In a report, the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) said the country’s seven investment promotion agencies (IPAs) logged a 31.2% increase in foreign direct investment (FDI) pledges, to P245.21 billion last year from P186.96 billion in 2014. In the fourth quarter of 2015 alone, the amount of investments committed by foreigners totaled P138.61 billion, 45.6% more than the P95.18 billion pledged in 2014’s comparable three months. Unlike money invested for short-term gain in financial markets, FDIs involve long-term investments in hard assets like factories that generate employment.
Poe disqualification case up for resolution PhilStar 23rd Feb 2016
Sen. Grace Poe’s petition questioning the Commission on Elections (Comelec)’s decision to disqualify her from the presidential race is now up for resolution by the Supreme Court (SC). Parties submitted yesterday their respective memorandum summarizing their arguments heard over the past five Tuesdays. The petitioners in the disqualification cases against Poe before the Comelec insist that she is not eligible for the presidency because she is not a natural-born citizen and lacks the 10-year residency as required by law.
MILF dismayed on non-passage of BBL Manila Bulletin 19th Feb 2016
The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) expressed dismay on the non-passage of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL), saying that their “sentiment is mirrored by the tangible frustration of the great majority of the Bangsamoro people, the peace-loving populace not only in Mindanao but also in the entire country” and even the other nations who have been observing the peace process between the MILF and the Government of the Philippines (GPH). “We the entire membership of the MILF express our deep disappointment and grave dismay over the non-passage of the BBL in the House of Congress in the Republic of the Philippines,” the statement said that was signed by MILF chair Al Haj Murad Ebrahim.
ELECTION 2016: AGENDA OF THE NEXT PRESIDENT Philippine Inquirer 19th Feb 2016
ELECTION 2016: AGENDA OF THE NEXT PRESIDENT Starting Feb. 9, 2016, the Inquirer is coming out with a 10-part series on pressing national concerns that should be high on the agenda of the five contenders in the May 9 presidential election. The series should help Filipinos choose wisely the country's next leader. In line with the Inquirer's "ThINQ.Vote." advocacy, we have asked the presidential candidates to outline their concrete plans of action in dealing with 10 decades-long issues on poverty, economy and jobs, food security, peace and order, corruption, health care, foreign policy, traffic, climate change and Internet connectivity.
Customs
PH-EFTA charts substantial progress after Round 5 InterAksyon 26th Feb 2016
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) intensifies efforts to deepen and strengthen the country's strategic trade and economic partnerships with the recent conclusion of the 5th round of negotiations on the Philippines-EFTA Free Trade Agreement. "We have made substantial progress in key areas of complementation and are optimistic that we can sign the agreement before June this year," said DTI Undersecretary for Industry Development Dr. Ceferino S. Rodolfo. EFTA, composed of member economies Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Iceland, concluded its 5th round of negotiations with the Philippines earlier this month.
PH ratifies trade facilitation deal under WTO Inquirer 24th Feb 2016
The Philippines has ratified the World Trade Organization’s Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA), an accord seen to significantly benefit local industries given the expected reduction in trading costs globally. “The President has already approved our TFA. We’re just finalizing the paperwork for the Instrument (of Acceptance),” Trade Secretary Adrian S. Cristobal Jr. said in an interview with the Inquirer on Tuesday. The submission of the Instrument of Acceptance means that WTO member has completed its domestic process, accepts the agreement, and is prepared to start implementing the TFA. This also means all related Philippine agencies have submitted their certificates of concurrence to the Department of Foreign Affairs. Cristobal said the government would soon be ready to submit all necessary TFA documents to Geneva. As of Feb. 12 this year, 69 WTO members have already ratified the TFA.
Changes under CMTA to aid supply chain management Business World 19th Feb 2016
THE ENFORCEMENT of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA) will serve as a turning point in the management of the country’s supply chains, the Customs bureau chief said. In a keynote speech before the Supply Chain Management Association of the Philippines (SCMAP), Bureau of Customs (BoC) Commissioner Alberto D. Lina cited the “salient features” of the CMTA, which is currently awaiting the President’s signature. “I belive [these] would have impact in the way we manage the supply chain. For many, these would be game changers,” Mr. Lina said in the speech delivered during the 2016 SCMAP Supply Chain Outlook in Mandaluyong City on Friday. The CMTA will simplify, modernize and align the country’s customs procedures with global best practices amid a “highly competitive and dynamic” world market, the commissioner noted.
Defense & Security
US-PH TO HOLD WAR GAMES AHEAD OF SKED The Manila Times 2nd Mar 2016
BECAUSE of the need to reposition troops in connection with the presidential elections, the annual military exercise between the Philippines and the United States will be held a month ahead of schedule, a military official announced on Wednesday. Instead of late April, the month-long Balikatan (shoulder-to-shoulder) would be held this March, according to Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesman. “We have agreed to hold the Balikatan 2016 in advance because of the need to reposition our troops for the elections. So it would be held this March until April and it would be concluded a month before the elections,” Padilla told reporters in a chance interview at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City.
China Blocks Philippine Boats in Disputed Sea, Mayor Says Bloomberg 1st Mar 2016
China has stationed ships near a submerged reef in the South China Sea, blocking access by Philippine boats to fertile fishing grounds in the area as it steps up efforts to assert claims to more than 80 percent of one of the world’s busiest waterways. "Many" Chinese coast guard boats and five warships were positioned around Quirino, or Jackson atoll, in the Spratly island chain, preventing Philippine boats from reaching their traditional fishery, Eugenio Bito-onon Jr., mayor of the Kalayaan municipality, said by phone Wednesday. Bito-onon said he was “alarmed” by the presence of the Chinese ships he saw on a Feb. 28 flight between Palawan and the Philippine island of Pagasa that took him over the area.
Japan signs pact to supply defense equipment to Philippines PhilStar 29th Feb 2016
Japan has signed an agreement to supply defense equipment and technology to the Philippines, the first such Japanese defense pact in a region where the U.S. allies have been alarmed by China's aggressive advances in disputed territories. Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin said the agreement he signed with Japanese Ambassador Kazuhide Ishikawa in Manila on Monday underpins the Asian nations' "mutual desire to enhance our respective defense capabilities" and "to contribute to regional peace and stability." Gazmin says the accord serves as a framework for the transfer of defense equipment and technology, with the details being settled in future talks. Japan is initially offering a surveillance aircraft, he said without elaborating. Japan and the Philippines have separately expressed alarm over Beijing's increasingly assertive behavior in disputed waters.
Troops overrun terrorists’ stronghold in Lanao del Sur Manila Bulletin 26th Feb 2016
Forty-five people, including 42 terrorists, were killed while 11 others were wounded as the government forces overran the enemy stronghold in Lanao del Sur, a military official revealed Friday. Maj. Felimon Tan, Jr., Western Mindanao Command (Westmincom) information officer, said the troops have captured the stronghold of the terrorists before sunset Thursday in the municipality of Butig, Lanao del Sur. Tan disclosed three of the 45 people killed were soldiers as well as all of the 11 wounded. Tan did not release the names of the slain and wounded soldiers except to say they belong to the Army’s 103rd Infantry Brigade.
Monitoring team urges Plan B on sustaining Gov’t-MILF peace deal Business World 26th Feb 2016
THE third party group monitoring the peace process in Mindanao has pressed the Philippine government to have an alternative plan to further its peace agreement with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), amid the likely possibility that the proposed law on the Bangsamoro Region will not be passed under the current administration. The Third Party Monitoring Team (TPMT), the body composed of local and international non-government organizations monitoring the implementation of the peace agreement, said in a report released on Friday, “Looking forward, it will be essential to build a path forward, a ‘Plan B,’ so that the next Administration can hit the ground running, to work to sustain public confidence in the process during this period of uncertainty, and to reaffirm the commitment of all stakeholders to winning the prize of peace.”
‘PH must have well trained, driven reserve corps Manila Bulletin 24th Feb 2016
A senior administration congressman yesterday urged the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to include “war games” exercises and “guerrilla tactics” training in the Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) to lure students to enroll in the military program and at the same time prepare the youth to “defend their country” in case of war. The proposal was aired by Batangas Rep. Mark Llandro “Dong” Mendoza, a member of the House Committee on Higher Education, amid rising tension with China over disputed territories in the West Philippine sea. Only last week, China deployed missiles in West Philippine sea areas it had occupied.
Missile system to raise tensions in disputed sea, US warns Manila Bulletin 19th Feb 2016
The United States (US) warned Wednesday of rising tensions in the South China Sea after China appeared to have placed a surface-to-air missile system on a disputed island. Taiwan’s defense ministry said that China had positioned anti-aircraft missiles on Woody Island in the Paracel chain, which is occupied by China but also claimed by Taiwan and Vietnam. State Department spokesman Mark Toner said commercial satellite imagery appeared to indicate China has deployed a surface-to-air missile system. Another US official gave a more direct confirmation of the deployment on Woody Island. The official, who was not authorized to discuss the information publicly and spoke on condition of anonymity, said it is unclear whether the deployment is intended for the long-term.
Palace calls on China anew not to raise further tensions in South China Manila Bulletin 19th Feb 2016
Malacanang on Friday called on China anew not to raise further tensions in the South China Sea after China sent missiles to Woody Island in the Paracels. This, despite the fact that Woody Island is not covered by the Philippines’ maritime entitlement claims. Presidential Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. said that a joint statement during the recently concluded ASEAN-US Leaders’ Meeting in California, USA called on all parties to refrain from raising further tensions in the South China Sea. “Nagkaisa (sila) sa kanilang joint statement sa pagsasabing ang dapat pairalin dito ay ‘yung rules-based settlement of disputes [They agreed in the joint statement in saying that there should be a rules-based settlement of disputes],” Coloma said. “At batid naman ng mundo na nitong mga nakaraang taon ay lumutang ang iba’t ibang usapin hinggil sa mga maritime entitlements, at doon sa bahagi ‘non na tuwirang apektado ang Pilipinas, nagpasya tayo na idulog ito sa UN Arbitral Tribunal [We are all aware that in the past years, there had been talks about maritime entitlements and those being claimed by the Philippines were filed before the UN Arbitral Tribunal],” he said.
Economics
Philippines capable of double-digit growth – IMF PhilStar 2nd Mar 2016
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) expects the Philippines to post double-digit economic growth amid a steady improvement in public investment efficiency over the next 15 years. In a report, IMF economist Takuji Komatsuzaki said the improvement in public investment efficiency generates substantial additional benefits particularly through higher gross domestic product (GDP) growth. “Assuming half of the inefficiency is eliminated in five years, the increase in real GDP after 15 years is nine percent to 11 percent,” Komatsuzaki said. The IMF considered two scenarios in the working paper including a permanent increase in public investment by two percent of GDP financed by borrowing as well as the same increase in public investment financed by higher taxes.
Nagging issues cited amid reform gains Business World 1st Mar 2016
Constraints to the country’s achievement of inclusive growth persist, foreign business chambers said yesterday as they called for bolder actions “to lock-in economic gains” into the next decade. The last check on reforms in the current administration -- contained in the Fifth Arangkada Anniversary Assessment presented yesterday by the Joint Foreign Chambers of the Philippines (JFC) at the Manila Marriott Hotel in Pasay City -- showed 333 out of 462 JFC recommendations -- or about 74.5% -- either completed, showed “substantial progress” or started, and 114 others -- or 25.5% -- either regressing or “not ongoing.” Of the total, moreover, 76 recommendations -- or 17% -- had upgraded progress ratings and 327 others (73.15%) were “steady”, while 44 others (9.84%) actually declined.
‘Business as usual’ amid global headwinds, but policy continuity vital Business World 29th Feb 2016
THE PHILIPPINES can be expected to fare well against external headwinds, monetary officials said yesterday, but more must be done to attract investments in order to sustain fast growth. Though hounded by the same challenges seen in 2015 -- which saw capital flows rebalance due to China’s slowdown and with the United States hiking interest rates -- Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Amando M. Tetangco, Jr. said the country is expected to remain resilient after having entered the new year from a “position of relative strength.” “The Philippines is seen to sustain resilience in 2016,” said Mr. Tetangco in a speech at the Manila Times Business Forum in Manila.
Philippine Peso Goes From Best to Worst Performer in Asia Bloomberg 29th Feb 2016
As Benigno Aquino closes out a presidency that delivered the Philippines four Standard & Poor’s rating upgrades, investors are turning to the country’s dollar debt to shelter from peso losses. The nation’s U.S. currency bonds are rising almost twice as fast as local notes, pushing the yield on the securities due 2024 down 52 basis points this year to 2.49 percent. The peso is the only major Southeast Asian currency to weaken in 2016 before a May 9 presidential vote in which there are five contenders and no clear frontrunner. “Peso weakness and dollar bond strength reflect locals sheltering in dollar assets pre-elections,” said Edwin Gutierrez, who helps oversee about $11 billion as head of emerging-market sovereign debt at Aberdeen Asset Management Plc in London.
Philippine Imports Shrink the Most Since 2009 as Global Headwinds Hit Jakarta Globe 29th Feb 2016
Philippine imports dropped nearly 26 percent in December, the sharpest fall since 2009, as semiconductor shipments contracted almost 40 percent to signal tougher days ahead for one of Asia's fastest-growing economies. The Philippines imports semiconductors largely for assembly in electronics products for export, and the decline underlines slower demand overseas as the global economy weakens. Last week, Manila cut its 2016 import growth target to 10 percent from 12 percent and for export growth to 5 percent from 6 percent, citing a "very challenging" external environment.
PHL economy still in ‘good shape’ Business World 25th Feb 2016
THE PHILIPPINES remains in an economic “upswing” that can spur further growth on the back of sustained investor confidence, with room to push locally driven expansion still seen, a recent report by the Asianomics Group Ltd. said. In a Feb. 15 report titled “Philippines: Cruise Control,” the Hong Kong-based research company said the country continues to have a strong growth momentum, with expansion seen to pick up pace further in 2016. “Our Austrian stress analysis suggests that the Philippines is in relatively good shape and still in the upswing phase of the business cycle. This would support general expectations that economic growth will accelerate in 2016 from the 2015 level of 5.8% in real terms,” the group said, referring to a tenet under the Austrian economic school of thought, which focuses on credit cycles, profit cycles and cash flows.
Young population set to sustain PH growth The Standard 25th Feb 2016
The Philippines’ large and young population will keep the economy growing faster than its Asian neighbors over the next 25 years, a Singaporean bank said Thursday. DBS Bank of Singapore said in a report that within the Asian region, the Philippines and India would benefit the most from their large working-age populations. “The proportion of those of working age in the total population is peaking in many countries as we speak—or indeed peaked a couple of years ago. This share will fall sharply in the coming years throughout most of Asia, Japan, Europe and the US,” DBS said.
Purisima says sound borrowing grew economy Business World 21st Feb 2016
THE PHILIPPINES’ debt burden has eased significantly since President Benigno S. C. Aquino III assumed office, the Finance chief said, in response to allegations that the government expanded debt. “By virtually any sensible measure -- that is to say, on indicators that matter -- we are much better off today than we were six, or even 18 years ago with the earliest comparable annual debt data,” Finance Secretary Cesar V. Purisima said in a statement over the weekend. In an earlier statement, the Freedom from Debt Coalition (FDC) claimed that Mr. Aquino stands as the biggest borrower among Philippine leaders since 1986, even eclipsing his predecessor Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. The next President would inherit P6.4 trillion of outstanding national government debt, P4.16 trillion of which were borrowed during Mr. Aquino’s term alone, according to FDC.
Energy
LPG group backs stockpiling of cheap oil PhilStar 29th Feb 2016
Amid low oil prices, the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Marketers’ Association (LPGMA) has supported the Department of Energy’s plan to stockpile ready-to-use fuel products and secure some of the country’s future requirements. “Considering the historical volatility of global oil prices, it would make sense for government to take advantage of inexpensive oil and obtain at a bargain additional fuel supplies for use in extraordinary need,” LPGMA party-list Rep. Arnel Ty said. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations Petroleum Security Agreement also encourages members to build extra stockpiles, Ty said.
Foreign-share ruling opens up hybrid power Business World 29th Feb 2016
The National Power Corp. (Napocor) is rebidding this month a solar-diesel hybrid power plant on Limasawa island that could serve as a template for similar projects to be bid out to private companies to hasten the electrification of remote villages. “We will have a 25% local and 75% foreign [ownership share for the project],” said Urbano C. Mendiola, Jr., Napocor vice-president for corporate affairs, in a briefing yesterday in Makati City organized by the company that oversees Germany’s foreign aid programs, known as GIZ. He said the new ownership structure came about after the Public-Private Partnership Center issued an opinion that government projects are allowed to take in more foreign equity as long as interested local companies do not have the relevant technological expertise. The equity sharing is a reversal of the previous structure that resulted in only one entity bidding for the project in December.
Citicore inaugurates 25MW solar farm in Negros The Manila Times 23rd Feb 2016
Renewable energy company Citicore Power inaugurated on Tuesday its first 25-megawatt (MW) solar power plant in Silay City, Negros Occidental, which is expected to power 30,000 homes connected to the Visayas grid. The solar farm spans 43 hectares and boasts more than 96,000 photovoltaic (PV) modules. Project engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) was done by Megawide Construction Corp. while the Land Bank of the Philippines provided the funding for the P2.2 billion project cost. The plant is expected to offset 18,000 metric tons of carbon emissions per year – equivalent to planting 800,000 trees over the life of the facility. Department of Energy figures show that more than 1,000 MW of solar power will soon come from Negros Occidental once all targeted projects in the area are commissioned.
New policies on renewable energy out soon Business Mirror 23rd Feb 2016
The National Renewable Energy Board (NREB) is crafting new policies aimed at stimulating investments in the renewable-energy (RE) sector, in line with the Department of Energy’s (DOE) thrust to reduce the country’s reliance on fossil fuel. The NREB is the body tasked by the Renewable Energy Act of 2008 to recommend policies, rules and standards to govern the implementation of the law, which granted fiscal and nonfiscal incentives to RE projects. “The proposals will cover updates and new targets for the National Renewable Energy Program [NREP], FiT [feed-in tariff] rate options, installation targets, renewable portfolio standards [RPS] and net metering,” NREB Chairman Pedro H. Maniego Jr. told the BusinessMirror. The DOE has so far received the recommendation of the NREB on RPS, which will require power-industry participants to source a certain percentage of their requirements from RE.
More RE investments needed for COP21 goals The Manila Times 22nd Feb 2016
THE Philippines should continue to invest in renewable energy to meet the climate goals set out in the 2015 Paris Climate Conference (COP21) in which the country is a signatory. “We need more investments in renewable energy for the country to reach its carbon commitments,” said Dexter Y. Tiu, chief executive of Repower Energy Development Corporation (REDC), as part of the company’s celebration of World Sustainable Energy Days. REDC is a renewable energy company utilizing breakthrough technologies for energy production through hydropower that promote environmental sustainability. Under COP21, 196 countries including the Philippines agreed on the goal to cut carbon emissions in order to keep global warming this century below 2 degrees Celsius and build a carbon-free world economy in the second half of the century.
New solar plants to rise in Central Luzon Sun.Star 22nd Feb 2016
Six new solar farms will soon rise in Central Luzon to boost the region’s renewable energy supply. Former senator Juan Miguel Zubiri bared this Saturday, as he hailed the Philippines’ completion of Southeast Asia’s biggest solar power generator -- the P10-billion, 132-megawatt (MW) solar farm in Barangay Tinampaan, Cadiz City, Negros Occidental. Zubiri said that last month, the Department of Energy awarded a total of 26 new solar energy service contracts to private developers. The solar farms will be located in Guagua, Pampanga; Palauig, Zambales; Hermosa, Bataan; San Jose and Pantabangan in Nueva Ecija; and San Idelfonso, Bulacan.
Financial Services
SE Asia Stocks-Singapore, Philippine lead gains on upbeat regionals Reuters 2nd Mar 2016
Southeast Asian stock markets rose on Wednesday, with Singapore and the Philippines climbing 2 percent each, as global risk sentiment improved with stronger oil market and investors sought for bargains in battered shares in key sectors such as banks. The key Straits Times Index traded up 1.95 percent, led by a 3.1 percent rally in shares of DBS Group Holdings , the most actively traded by turnover. Nomura's ASEAN banks strategists said most ASEAN banks were attractively priced, with DBS its top pick among Singapore banks. Singapore banks fell 2 percent last month on concerns over the costs related to a China slowdown and the fall in commodity prices.
Investments and the foreign ownership rule Inquirer 1st Mar 2016
The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and Philippine Association of Securities Brokers and Dealers, Inc. (Pabsdi) are at odds over the new disclosure procedures prescribed for the compliance of the 40-percent foreign ownership rule on Philippine companies. Under the country’s foreign investment law, 100 percent foreign equity may be allowed in all areas of investment except those reserved for Filipinos under the Philippine Constitution and existing laws. Under the country’s foreign investment law, 100 percent foreign equity may be allowed in all areas of investment except those reserved for Filipinos under the Philippine Constitution and existing laws.
Customs operations need 24/7 bank assist Business Mirror 29th Feb 2016
Customs Commissioner Alberto D. Lina on Monday said he will ask the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) to allow banks at the Manila South Harbor to operate on 24/7 basis to enable importers to conduct business until they have paid their duties and taxes. “If the banks could extend their services up to 5 p.m. and remain open even on Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., they could help accelerate the pace of the economy,” Lina said at the sidelines of the Kapihan sa Manila Hotel media forum.
Philippines to Adopt Basel III Rules in 2018 Wall Street Journal 29th Feb 2016
The Philippine central bank said Tuesday its will implement the Basel III liquidity-coverage ratio from Jan. 1, 2018. The new rule requires local and foreign banks to hold sufficient high-quality liquid assets to fund their operations over a 30-day stress period. The central bank said simulations show Philippine banks can readily comply with the new standard. Banks will need to meet 90% of the threshold in 2018 and 100% by Jan. 1, 2019. An 18-month observation period is set between July 1 and end-2017 to help with the transition, during which banks will report their liquidity-coverage ratios to the central bank.
PH banking industry in good shape The Manila Times 28th Feb 2016
The Philippine banking sector is in good shape as reflected by latest asset quality indicators, the Department of Finance, said. “The banking system is growing faster than the economy, exceeding the nominal gross domestic product (GDP) growth of 5 percent,” the department said in its latest Economic Bulletin. Citing preliminary data from the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, the department said the banking system’s total assets were continuing an upward growth trend, rising by 8.21 percent to P12.085 trillion as of end-2015.
Rules on M&A deals raise concerns Business World 28th Feb 2016
THE PHILIPPINE Stock Exchange (PSE) wants the newly established anti-trust body to come out with relaxed implementing rules and regulations (IRR) on reporting mergers and acquisitions (M&A), as investment banks caution that the interim guidelines may cool the country’s hot deal-making market. PSE President Hans B. Sicat told reporters last week the P1-billion transaction value of M&A deals that should be reported to the Philippine Competition Commission (PCC) is “such a small number.” “The problem here is the law created potentially an extremely powerful commission which may decide that it wants to look at everything over P1 billion,” Mr. Sicat said, referring to Republic Act (RA) No. 10667 or the Philippine Competition Act.
PHL online buying via smartphone breaches 40% level -- MasterCard Business World 28th Feb 2016
MORE FILIPINOS are using smart phones to shop for the convenient transactions, and are focused on fashion items, beauty products, and home accessories, according to a recent survey by MasterCard, Inc. “In the Philippines, an increase in mobile shopping was also noted, with 40.9% purchasing an item via smart phone in the past three months,” MasterCard said in a statement over the weekend. This compares to 34% in 2014, 32.8% in 2013, and 21.4% in 2012, according to data on the company’s Web site.
Sun Life, PLDT team up on ‘fintech (financial technology)’ services Inquirer 25th Feb 2016
Global insurance giant Sun Life of Canada and local telecommunications giant Philippine Long Distance Telephone Co. have teamed up to develop financial technology or “fintech” services for emerging markets, starting with the Philippines. The strategic partnership between Sun Life of Canada (Philippines) Inc. and PLDT group, through innovations arm Voyager Innovations and mobile provider Smart Communications Inc., was announced during the Mobile World Congress held in Barcelona, Spain. The collaboration seeks to focus on weaving digital and mobile technologies into insurance services while using Voyager Innovations’ various digital platforms.
No credit bubble in Philippines, BSP assures PhilStar 25th Feb 2016
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) assured there is no credit bubble in the Philippines as loans extended by banks remain at healthy levels enough to support economic growth. BSP Governor Amando Tetangco Jr. said in a speech during a business forum the 13-to 14-percent growth in bank lending last year is enough to provide the necessary funding and resources especially to the productive sector of the economy. “The 13-to 14-percent credit growth is just appropriate for this stage of development,” he said. Latest data from the BSP showed bank lending booked a double-digit growth of 13.1 percent to P5.12 trillion in December from P4.53 trillion in end-December 2014.
Trade groups seek repeal of SEC rulings Filipino Express 21st Feb 2016
Local business groups have urged the suspension or repeal of four regulatory issuances made by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) as these were seen derailing the competitiveness of Philippine industries and companies, particularly the micro, small and medium sized enterprises (MSMEs). In a joint letter sent to the Department of Trade and Industry and the National Competitiveness Council, the three business groups - the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), the Philippine Exporters Confederation Inc. (Philexport) and the Employers Confederation of the Philippines (Ecop), noted that the four issuances were either “costly, redundant or useless.” One of the issuances being contested by the business groups was memorandum circular 10-2014, which requires the submission of the alphalist disclosing specific income and taxes paid.
Court stops SEC from implementing contested Securities Code rules Inquirer 19th Feb 2016
A local court has barred the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) from executing 42 provisions in the new implementing framework governing the Securities Regulation Code which were disputed by a group of stock brokers. Acting on the petition of the Philippine Association of Brokers and Dealers Inc. (Pasbdi), the Regional Trial Court of Mandaluyong City issued a 20-day temporary restraining order (TRO) preventing the SEC from implementing the contentious provisions in the 280-page IRR.
Food & Agriculture
Sustainable agriculture innovation key to food sufficiency Sun Star 29th Feb 2016
The Philippines needs to explore novel and sustainable food production methods to minimize the adverse effects of climate-related challenges that affect the country, an official said. “Making a balanced meal accessible to all is now a complex undertaking,” said Milton Stokes, Monsanto director for Global Health and Nutrition Outreach, in light of the long dry spells brought on by El Niño and currently affecting major food-producing regions in the Philippines. “The high impact of natural hazards such as the persistent El Niño on agriculture calls for enhanced mainstreaming of resilience-building programs and innovative farming interventions among small-scale farmers,” he added.
Free agri education program to benefit students, farmers Manila Bulletin 28th Feb 2016
The Paradizoo has launched a free agricultural education program for those who are interested through its “Power of Three” – floral, vegetable, and agri-livestock festival. Paradizoo, a part of the Zoomanity Group parks, aims to promote an inclusive growth in the field of agriculture by offering the free education program, which started last January and will continue up to March. Some 20,000 students, farmers, and members of the public and private sectors are expected to benefit from the program which focuses on the growing agricultural sector in the country. Jumpstarting the program are free seminars on flower, vegetable, and livestock care which were provided by different well-known educators and speakers of the agricultural sector, which included Senator and Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Agriculture and Food Cynthia Villar, and Mendez (Cavite) Mayor Eric Vida.
Marcos: Gov’t should pour more funds in R&D to boost agriculture Manila Bulletin 26th Feb 2016
The incoming administration should pour more funds into Research and Development (R&D) for the country to cope with new scientific developments and challenges such as climate change to boost the agriculture sector, independent vice presidential candidate Sen. Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said. Marcos said the country’s susceptibility to climate change, particularly the ‘’El Nino’’-related drought and typhoons, should be enough reason why the country should put in more money to R&D because it would help farmers cope with the weather phenomenon. Marcos lamented the dismal funding being given to R&D saying it could not compare to the more than five percent of the Gross National Product (GNP) being allotted by other countries in the Asian region.
Philippines’ DAR and IFAD collaborate to boost agriculture output Far Eastern Agriculture 24th Feb 2016
The Philippines’ department of agrarian reform (DAR) has launched a US$46.1mn project with International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) to boost agricultural productivity, particularly in rice, coconut and coffee plantations in three regions. The Convergence on Value-Chain Enhancement for Rural Growth and Empowerment (Project ConVERGE) is a new partnership and is expected to benefit over 300,000 farmers including 38,700 agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) in the 11 agrarian reform community clusters in Zamboanga Peninsula, Northern Mindanao and Caraga Region. DAR undersecretary for foreign-assisted special project Herman Ongkiko said that ConVERGE is a levelled-up DAR-IFAD project that would help farmers from production to marketing, trading and even recycling.
Philippine food, healthcare products enter mainstream Arab market PhilStar 23rd Feb 2016
Philippine food and healthcare products have penetrated the mainstream market in the Middle East and are now experiencing strong demand, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said. “This is an opportune time for us as we get to see the local Arabs patronizing Philippine food such as fruits, noodles and sauces which are now conveniently available in major supermarkets and even in small outlets called the Bakalas (community stores),” DTI director of the export marketing bureau Senen Perlada said. “The opportunities are ripe and it is now for the private sector to take part and leverage on these opportunities ahead of us in the Middle East,” Philippine Ambassador to Riyadh Ezzedin Tago added.
Health & Life Sciences
Graphic health warning law takes effect today PhilStar 3rd Mar 2016
Starting today, local and imported cigarettes shall be contained in packaging with graphic health warnings or photographs showing the health risks of smoking. Health Secretary Janette Garin said the green light is on for the initial implementation of the Graphic Health Warning Law, which requires tobacco companies to print 12 graphic health warning templates on cigarette packages. “What is expected of the graphic health warning is to convey the visual message – that this can happen to you if you continue smoking,” Garin said.
Philippine healthcare IT spending to reach $60 M in 2019 Enterprise Innovation 26th Feb 2016
Healthcare IT spending in the Philippines is estimated to reach $60 million in 2019, growing with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4 percent from 2016, according to IDC Health Insights. A recent published IDC research “Philippines: Healthcare IT Spend Market Analysis, Forecasts and Trends,” showed that the largest spending group in health IT is the healthcare providers market, including hospitals with 88 percent share in 2015. Spending on the hardware segment is the highest at 79 percent share, with services and software spending ranked the second and third places, clearly indicating the country's current priority is focused on upgrading existing IT infrastructure.
PhilHealth hemodialysis fees questioned Manila Bulletin 19th Feb 2016
The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PHIC) has been asked to explain why its new hemodialysis package still requires members to pay additional fees. Bayan Muna party-list Representatives Neri Colmenares and Carlos Zarate demanded the explanation as they urged Congress to conduct an inquiry in aid of legislation into complaints aired by end-stage renal disease patients who have been promised 90 free dialysis sessions by PhilHealth. Colmenares noted that the state-run medical insurance firm issued Circular No. 024-2015 providing for an increase in dialysis benefits from 45 to 90 sessions.
Philippines healthcare providers administer vaccine approved for prevention of Dengue New Kerala 23rd Feb 2016
anofi Pasteur, the vaccines division of Sanofi, announced on Monday that vaccinations with Dengvaxia have commenced in the Philippines following official receipt of the first shipment of the vaccine earlier this month. Dengvaxia, a tetravalent dengue vaccine, was approved in the Philippines on 22 December 2015 for the prevention of disease caused by all four Dengue types in individuals from 9-45 years of age living in endemic areas.
Interactive health science exhibit tours the PHL GMA News 22nd Feb 2016
What do elementary students know about over-the-counter drugs? Do high school students understand how diseases spread? How can you make music with light? Students, teachers and guests found the answers to these and many other questions at the Health Science On The Go-Traveling Science Centrum (HSOTG), recently launched in Rizal province.
Women and infants in Philippines at higher risk of HIV from 'downstream' infections Gulf Digital News 22nd Feb 2016
When Clarissa's younger sister died, she had little time to dwell on her own grief. There were the three young children left behind to think of, two of them HIV positive. Together with her own children, there are now seven youngsters crammed in her tiny, crumbling shanty in Cebu in central Philippines. Space and money are tight as they all depend on Clarissa's husband who is a day labourer.
Philippine conditional cash transfers receive $450m World Bank boost Public Finance International 22nd Feb 2016
The World Bank has approved a $450m project to support the Philippines government’s health and education conditional cash transfer programme. The funds will cover about 7% of the total cost of implementing the programme, called Pantawid Pamilya, which delivers health and education grants to beneficiaries nationwide and is considered one of the largest and best-targeted social safety net programmes in the world.
UNEP: Zika highlights environment-health linkages Philstar News 21st Feb 2016
Just like Ebola, the spread of the Zika virus has sent a strong signal to the international community on the need to increase attention to linkages between environment and health. The list of health conditions that could be linked to environmental pollution and degradation is long and growing, including skin cancer, lung cancer, asthma, lead poisoning, mercury poisoning, malaria, ebola and Zika, according to the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP).
ICT
GrabBike operating illegally – LTFRB The Manila Times 2nd Mar 2016
The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) arrested a GrabBike driver in a sting operation to prove that the company continues to operate despite a cease and desist order issued by the board on January 27. The LTFRB said that GrabBike is not authorized to offer bikes and motorcycles as a public utility vehicle but the service is being promoted on social media. Chairman Winston Ginez booked a ride through his phone and apprehended GrabBike’s driver in the transport agency’s office.
PH government news website hacked Manila Bulletin 29th Feb 2016
In the wake of the latest hacking of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) website, Malacañang has vowed to intensify security measures to reduce the vulnerability of government websites from attacks. “We are implementing appropriate security measures to prevent a repetition of the hacking incident,” Presidential Communications Operations Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said. An individual calling himself “Pedro” hacked the government’s information website yesterday, playing fake news against two presidential candidates — Vice President Jejomar Binay and former Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas.
1.5M Pinoys secure online jobs in 2015 Manila Bulletin 28th Feb 2016
Around 1.5 million Filipinos at the end of 2015 have found online jobs, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) said. With the proliferation of online jobs and the talents of Filipinos, plus the DOST’s nationwide free Wi-Fi internet, the DOST’s Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Office is confident more Filipino income earners would be able to find online work. The ICT Office said Filipinos excel in writing, graphic and web design, desktop publishing, audio and video editing, software development, and virtual office assistance skills.
Dep’t of ICT bill still pending PNoy’s OK Manila Bulletin 28th Feb 2016
Senate President Pro Tempore Ralph Recto, principal author of the bill creating the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), remains optimistic that President Aquino would sing the measure into law. Short of saying he is wondering what’s taking the President so long to approve the bill, Recto said he believes the Palace is searching “for the best day for a signing ceremony.” “I think the Palace is searching for the best day for a signing ceremony. It’s a matter of scheduling. Or they may want it signed before he gives a major speech so he can announce it there for maximum impact,” Recto said.
Faster PH internet hinges on new players, reforms The Manila Times 24th Feb 2016
POLICY reforms and updates on laws and regulatory framework will attract new players and investors to improve the state of internet and broadband speeds in the Philippines. The Joint Foreign Chambers of the Philippines (JFC) and the Internet Society of the Philippines have issued a policy note on the country’s broadband situation, pointing out the constraints and challenges in the information, communications and technology sector. The policy note also includes recommendations to help address pressing issues involving internet services. Presenting the policy note on Wednesday, Winthrop Yu, chairman of the Internet Society, said the Philippines continued to have one of the most expensive yet slowest broadband services in the world.
E-commerce roadmap to boost PH economy, trade of MSMEs Sun Star 21st Feb 2016
THE government finally released the five-year industry roadmap that will enable e-commerce to contribute 25 percent to the country's gross domestic product (GDP) by 2020 and boost trade of more micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The Philippine E-Commerce Roadmap (PECR) targets 100,000 MSMEs and 40 to 50 percent of internet users doing e-commerce in the next five years, as it addresses a number of issues in the e-commerce ecosystem that requires collective effort of the various stakeholders. The PECR presented recommendations in six key areas: infrastructure, investment, innovation, intellectual capital, information flow and integration.
300 e-trikes to ply Manila Manila Bulletin 20th Feb 2016
The city government of Manila has allocated R120 million for the purchase of 300 units of electric tricycles or e-tricycles that will ply the routes of Chinatown, University Belt, Malate and Ermita areas next month. The first 300 e-tricycles will be procured through a bidding process with at least 10 interested manufacturers competing for the deal even as city officials are already eyeing the Department of Energy (DOE)-approved white e-trike seen during the Chinese New Year parade earlier this month, said 3rd District Councilor Bernardito Ang. “The DOE has tested the units for three years and they were recently awarded the contract… so we are thinking that they must be of good quality… but we are testing other units from the other providers as well. If the tricycle driver wishes to purchase from another manufacturer, the city will still be the guarantor for the four years amortization that the drivers need to pay,” Ang explained.
BIR starts IT upgrade for online transactions PhilStar 19th Feb 2016
The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) is working on improving its information technology systems for online transactions. According to a blueprint of priority programs, the BIR will work on several IT projects to help it collect P2.026 trillion in government revenues this year. “We unlikely met the target last year, but the important part is that we are growing the collections faster than the nominal GDP (gross domestic product),” Internal Revenue commissioner Kim Henares told reporters last Wednesday. The agency was tasked to collect P1.674 trillion last year. As of November, it has only raised P1.327 trillion.
DOST's Free WiFi project to boost number of online income earners InterAksyon 29th Feb 2016
The Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Office of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is promoting Online Jobs or Impact Sourcing to Filipinos in the provinces as an alternative means of earning income. The ICT Office regularly conducts Rural Impact Sourcing (RIS) workshops at various provincial locations promoting RIS to students and fresh graduates. By the end of 2015, an estimated 1.5 million Filipinos had found online work through the Internet, earning income, with many raking in US dollars in compensation, without leaving the country. Among the jobs Filipinos excel in are writing, graphic and web design, desktop publishing, audio and video editing, software development and virtual assistants.
Globe joins the Telecom Infra Project, works with Facebook to drive Global Connectivity Manila Bulletin 25th Feb 2016
Globe is working with industry leaders to connect billions of people around the world through the use of innovative technologies and operational methods. As part of its commitment to help build a digital nation and a digital world, Globe Telecom has joined a global initiative formed to create new technologies and approaches in support of accelerating the growth of high-quality, scalable, and affordable telecommunications infrastructure by driving innovation and collaboration in the industry. Globe is a founding member and currently the only Philippine telco, at launch, to be part of the Telecom Infra Project (TIP), an engineering-focused initiative driven by operators, infrastructure providers, system integrators, and other technology companies that aims to reimagine the traditional approach to building and deploying telecom network infrastructure.
Infrastructure
Developers watch as base conversion body bides time on Fort Bonifacio area Business World 29th Feb 2016
THE BASES Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) is taking its time before bringing to the market a 47-hectare (ha) Fort Bonifacio property after the Supreme Court junked the petition of a group of retired military officials claiming ownership of the land, as developers wait for the state-run agency to offer attractive terms before participating in the auction of the prime lot. BCDA President and Chief Executive Officer Arnel Paciano D. Casanova confirmed in a mobile phone message yesterday that the Supreme Court denied with finality a motion for reconsideration filed by the Navy Officers’ Village Association, Inc. (NOVAI) on a previous ruling by the high tribunal that gave the agency tasked to sell former military assets ownership of the Fort Bonifacio property. “We shall prepare the property for future development. The decision to dispose of it will depend on market conditions and specific strategy for value-creation of its assets by BCDA,” Mr. Casanova said.
Meralco starts relocation of facilities affected by Skyway project PhilStar 28th Feb 2016
Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) has started relocation works of distribution facilities affected by the P26.5-billion Metro Manila Skyway Stage 3 project to avoid encountering any delay in the completion of the elevated expressway. Meralco completed the transfer of its facilities along the P15.8-billion Ninoy Aquino International Airport Expressway (NAIAX) project late last year. “Last year, our hands were tied about the relocation of affected facilities by the NAIA expressway project. We’re done with it, we completed all the necessary relocation job,” Meralco vice president and head of networks Ronnie Aperocho said.
PH ripe for infra, energy investments; Koreans keen Manila Bulletin 29th Feb 2016
The Philippines has emerged as one of the most attractive investment destinations for infrastructure and energy projects, according to Korea’s investment and trade promotion agency. This was stressed by Ambassador Kim Young-Sun, secretary-general of the ASEAN Korea Centre (AKC), who recently led 14 Korean companies with keen interest in infrastructure and energy projects in the country. According to the Ambassador, the volume of investments in these sectors more than doubled from $18 million in 2013 to $40 million in 2014. Investments in infrastructure and energy account for 40 percent of Korea’s total investment in the Philippines. Korea is the fifth largest investor of the Philippines with interests in manufacturing, shipbuilding, retail, gaming and software development, tourism, infrastructure, agriculture, agribusiness, energy, and banking and finance.
PPP chief’s resignation won’t hamper operations – Palace The Philippines Star 24th Feb 2016
The awarding of projects under the public-private partnership program would not be affected by the resignation of PPP Center executive director Cosette Canilao and the Commission on Elections’ ban on appointments due to the upcoming polls, Malacañang said yesterday. Quoting the PPP Center, Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said the government was currently bidding out 14 PPP projects, including five regional airports, a prison facility, a port modernization and water project, expressway dike, two information technology (IT) projects and three rail projects. Canilao is set to step down from her post effective March 8, to address pressing family concerns. She said her departure from the agency is not expected to have any effect on the implementation of the PPP projects.
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