OCTOBER 1, 2007
I.BANNER STORIES
1. Philippine Daily Inquirer
I have nothing more to say on broadband deal--Neri
Inquirer
Last updated 10:55pm (Mla time) 09/30/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- Senators who hope that Commission on Higher Education Chairman Romulo Neri could provide the missing piece in the story that would “directly link” President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to the controversial National Broadband Network (NBN) deal are in for a big disappointment.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=91642
2. The Philippine Star
‘GMA allies ready to sacrifice Abalos’
By Jess Diaz
Monday, October 1, 2007
Embattled Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman Benjamin Abalos, facing an impeachment case in the House of Representatives, will most likely be “sacrificed” by President Arroyo’s congressmen-allies, according to Minority Leader Ronaldo Zamora.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=2007093090
3. Manila Times
Benhur: JdV ‘hypocrite’
By Francis Earl A. Cueto, Reporter
The brewing scandal about national broad-band network is turning into a family feud that is pitting the son of the accused against the father of the accuser.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/oct/01/yehey/top_stories/20071001top1.html
4. Malaya
GMA allies fear Abalos trail will lead to Palace
Hold back on signing impeach complaint
BY WENDELL VIGILIA
ADMINISTRATION congressmen are having second thoughts about signing the impeachment complaint against Elections Chairman Benjamin Abalos, fearing this could trigger another impeachment complaint against President Arroyo, opposition congressmen said yesterday.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/oct01/news1.htm
5. Manila Bulletin
Razon assumes PNP post today
Will take over from Calderon at Crame rites; GMA leads PNP turnover rites today
By ROY C. SINFUEGO and ARIS R. ILAGAN
Deputy Director General Avelino Razon Jr., one of the most decorated officers in the country, will formally assume today the post of the Chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP) in ceremonies at Camp Crame led by President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20071001104498.html
6. The Daily Tribune
Neri calls Palace, told to ‘hold on’
By Sherwin C. Olaes
10/01/2007
Acting Commission on Higher Education (Ched) Chairman Romulo Neri yesterday called Malacañang to complain that the media are sowing intrigues between him and President Arroyo.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071001hed1.html
7. Abante
NAMIMILIGRO KAMI SA BROADBAND!
Nina ROSE MIRANDA at ERALYN PRADO
Kung ang Malacañang ang masusunod, nais na nitong itigil na, kundi man ay huwag gawing prayoridad ng Senado, ang imbestigasyon sa $329 milyong national broadband network (NBN) deal ng pamahalaan sa Chinese firm na ZTE Corp.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/oct0107/main.htm
8. Abante-Tonite
ISA PANG TESTIGO VS ABALOS
Ni Rey Marfil
Maliban kina Jose "Joey" de Venecia III at Commission on Higher Education (CHED) chairman Romulo Neri, mayroon pang alas na pinanghahawakan ang Senado para idiin sa broadband scandal si Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman Benjamin Abalos.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/oct0107/main.htm
9. Pilipino Star Ngayon
Jinggoy, Nene hands-off!
Monday, October 1, 2007
Upang maging patas at makabuluhan ang gagawing imbestigasyon ng Senado sa kontrobersiyal na ZTE broadband project ay hiniling ng grupo ng mga abogado na mag-inhibit na lamang sa pagdinig sina Senators Aquilino Pimentel Jr. at Jinggoy Estrada.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2007093067
10. Journal
KILLER SLIDE
By: Fernando M. Cariaso with AFP
10 die as mud, rocks bury houses
TEN people died while one remained missing following a landslide in Ifugao province Saturday night amid heavy rains brought by tropical depression “Hanna,” the Cordillera Region Office of Civil Defense said.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-10-01&sec=1&aid=33413
11. Business World
Hunger at a record peak
Survey indicates 3.8 million families experienced having nothing to eat
HUNGER HAS HIT A FRESH PEAK nationwide, a new Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey showed, with the national percentage of families having experienced nothing to eat rising to a high of 21.5%.
http://www.bworldonline.com/BW100107/content.php?id=001
12. Business Mirror
Shifts in RP economic patterns cited
BESIDES ‘MOST SOLID’ FUNDAMENTALS, TETANGCO SAYS REDUCED RELIANCE ON OLD MARKETS A PLUS
By Jun Vallecera
Reporter
THE country’s economic bedrock is the strongest in a decade, presenting opportunities for business to range beyond narrow domestic confines, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) governor said, capping with good news a gloomy week on the economic front with revelations of alleged bribery in the biggest state telecom project and declines in the Philippines’ ranking in global corruption indices.
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/10012007/headlines01.html
II. POLITICAL
Arroyo: Use woman power to free Aung San Suu Kyi
By Christine Avendaño
Inquirer
Last updated 00:52am (Mla time) 09/30/2007
NEW YORK (VIA PLDT) -- President Macapagal-Arroyo has suggested that the world’s women leaders employ “woman power” to obtain the release of detained Burmese prodemocracy leader and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Aung San Suu Kyi.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=91548
Come visit, Arroyo tells United Nations chief
By Christine Avendaño
Inquirer
Last updated 00:52am (Mla time) 09/30/2007
NEW YORK (VIA PLDT) -- President Macapagal-Arroyo has invited United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon, whom she described as a “good friend of the Philippines,” to visit Manila.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=91549
RP needs more than ‘amparo,’ says HK group
By Jerome Aning
Inquirer
Last updated 00:51am (Mla time) 09/30/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- The writ of Amparo may not be enough to solve the problem of extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances in the Philippines, a Hong Kong-based human rights group said Friday.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=91551
WITH DUE RESPECT
For or against Arroyo
By Artemio V. Panganiban
Inquirer
Last updated 01:47am (Mla time) 09/30/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- My Aug. 12 column, titled “GMA’s legacy,” continues to draw reactions. One was quite pointed, even sarcastic, “After the Supreme Court—under your leadership last year—dealt successive blows to GMA [Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo], how can you say that, as a Filipino, you still ‘want the President to succeed and foster democracy and development; freedom and food; nay, liberty and prosperity for all.’ I thought all along that you have joined us in the anti-GMA movement.”
http://opinion.inquirer.net/inquireropinion/columns/view_article.php?article_id=91561
AFP preparing action plan for barangay, SK elections
By James Mananghaya
Monday, October 1, 2007
A ranking military official said the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is preparing contingency measures to prevent communist rebels from disrupting the coming barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections on Oct. 29.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20070930108
GMA off to China, will meet with Hu
By Paolo Romero
Monday, October 1, 2007
President Arroyo is set to hold bilateral talks with Chinese President Hu Jintao tomorrow when she embarks on a two-day trip to China.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=2007093099
PCGG exec disputes RP ranking in TI corruption index
Monday, October 1, 2007
It’s not true that other countries see the reported corruption in the Philippines as getting worse, an official of the Presidential Commission on Good Government (PCGG) said yesterday.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20070930100
Comelec chief hits impeach complaint
By E. T. SUAREZ and BEN R. ROSARIO
Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman Benjamin S. Abalos Sr. has branded the impeachment complaint filed against him in the House of Representatives as part of a deliberate attempt to mislead the public on the truth behind his role in the controversial 9-million National Broadband Network (NBN) project.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MTNN20071001104483.html
EDITORIAL
The challenge to the Senate
IS there any lawmaking going on in the Senate?
Taxpayers are asking the question because the Senate, to this day, has passed only one bill, months after Congress opened for business in July.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/oct/01/yehey/opinion/20071001opi1.html
CPP warns of AFP involvement in elections
By MARVYN N. BENANING
The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) said yesterday that "widespread military terrorism in the countryside being carried out by the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is the biggest threat to the free and peaceful conduct of the barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections on Oct. 29."
http://www.mb.com.ph/MTNN20071001104486.html
Chairman Abalos a ‘hot’ potato
Floro Mercene
IMPEACHMENT charges are filed in the House against Comelec Chief Ben Abalos.
He is taking the rap for bigger fish in Malacañang.
http://www.mb.com.ph/OPED20071001104490.html
Abalos impeach hangs on admin solons; minority to vote as bloc
10/01/2007
A member of the minority group in the House of Repre-sentatives yesterday said the impeachment ball now lies in the hands of administration con-gressmen after Malacañang claimed it would not intervene in the proceeding against beleaguered Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman Benjamin Abalos Sr. even as he stressed opposition members would vote as a “solid bloc” whe-ther to support the impeachment.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071001hed2.html
Gloria is back, leaves tomorrow for China
PRESIDENT Arroyo arrived shortly before midnight Saturday from a four-day trip to New York City, where she attended the 62nd UN General Assembly, spoke as a panelist at the Clinton Global Initiative (CGI) forum, and met with business leaders and the Filipino community.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/oct01/news4.htm
Impeachment vs Abalos isusumite ngayon
Monday, October 1, 2007
Isusumite na ngayon sa House commitee on justice ang impeachment complaint laban kay Comelec Chairman Benjamin Abalos kasunod na rin ng pagkakakuha ni Iloilo Vice Gov. Rolex Suplico ng endorsement ng tatlong kongresista bunsod ng kontrobersiya sa national broadband network (NBN) deal.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2007093069
Moderate labor group wants P2 billion for workers to be displaced by RP-Japan trade deal
THE TRADE Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) is asking the government to set aside P2 billion to fund "safety nets" for workers whose jobs will be affected by the implementation of the Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (JPEPA).
October 2, 2007
I.BANNER STORIES
1. Philippine Daily Inquirer
$329-M deal zaps Abalos
NBN row claims its first casualty
By Beverly T. Natividad
Inquirer
Last updated 02:54am (Mla time) 10/02/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- The $329-million broadband scandal that has hounded President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s administration for weeks claimed its first casualty -- or sacrificial lamb as some critics put it -- when Commission on Elections Chair Benjamin Abalos resigned Monday.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=91905
2. The Philippine Star
Abalos resigns
By Sheila Crisostomo
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
Hounded by allegations of corruption in connection with the broadband deal with a Chinese firm, Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman Benjamin Abalos jumped the gun on a looming impeachment by resigning yesterday.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071001195
3. Manila Times
Abalos resigns
Chairman says he’s innocent,will file P20-M perjury case
By William Depasupil, Reporter
Five months remained before retirement, but Chairman Benjamin Abalos of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) resigned Monday amid the raging controversy surrounding the national broadband deal.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/oct/02/yehey/top_stories/20071002top1.html
4. Malaya
Abalos resigns Opposition says it was meant to save Gloria
BY WENDELL VIGILIA
ELECTIONS chairman Benjamin Abalos may have resigned, but that will not be the end of the national broadband project controversy and the effort to find out if President Arroyo’s fingerprints are on it.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/oct02/news1.htm
5. Manila Bulletin
Comelec Chairman Abalos resigns
Abalos stresses innocence; Borra is OIC
By E.T. SUAREZ
Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman Benjamin S. Abalos Sr. resigned yesterday saying he wanted to spare the Comelec from vicious and malicious attacks on his person and detach it from the controversy over the ZTE Corp. National Broadband Network (NBN) project.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20071002104585.html
6. The Daily Tribune
ABALOS RESIGNS!
10/02/2007
Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman Benjamin Abalos Sr. announced his resignation yesterday during a press conference he had called, after a Mass was held in his home in Mandaluyong City. There were at least 500 of his supporters who were in attendance.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071002hed1.html
7. Abante
IKANTA MO LAHAT, ABALOS!
Ulat ng ABANTE REPORTORIAL TEAM
Ngayong nagbitiw na sa puwesto bilang chairman ng Commission on Elections (Comelec), hinamon ito ng mga mambabatas sa Senado at Kamara, ng ilang local executives, ng iba’t ibang civic at militant groups, ng Simbahang Katoliko at maging ng sektor ng mga negosyante na isiwalat na ang lahat ng nalalaman sa kontrobersyal na broadband deal ng gobyernong Arroyo sa ZTE Corp. ng China.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/oct0207/main.htm
8. Abante-Tonite
ABALOS ‘DUDUGUIN’SA PLUNDER AT BRIBERY
Nina Rey Marfil at Bernard Taguinod
Sa pagkaka-usyami ng impeachment case sa Mababang Kapulungan ng Kongreso, ikakasa na ang pagsasampa ng kasong plunder at bribery laban sa nagbitiw na chairman ng Commission on Election (Comelec) na si Benjamin Abalos kaugnay sa eskandalo ng national broadband network (NBN) project.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/oct0207/main.htm
9. Pilipino Star Ngayon
‘I resign’ — Abalos
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
“I’m resigning.”
Ito ang inihayag kahapon ni Commission on Elections Chairman Benjamin Abalos kasabay ng hamon sa kanyang detractors na idemanda siya.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=20071001125
10. Journal
'I QUIT'
By: Lee Ann P. Ducusin Alvin Murcia
DRAMATIC MOVE. Flanked by his wife Cora and son Mandaluyong City Mayor Benhur Abalos, Commission on Elections Chairman Benjamin Abalos announces his resignation at his residence in Mandaluyong City before a crowd of supporters. The poll body chief who is facing an impeachment move in the House of Representatives resigned amid the raging controversy over the national broadband network project he allegedly brokered in behalf of Chinese firm ZTE Corp. Photo by Roger Talan
Abalos resigns but says fight not over
COMMISSION on Elections Chairman Benjamin Abalos yesterday did what he said he would never do.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-10-02&sec=1&aid=33573
11. Business World
BY MARIA KRISTINA C. CONTI
Heavy power users get to pick supplier
HEAVY POWER USERS will have the freedom to choose power suppliers by next year as the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) prepares to approve rules it describes as a "big step" towards the goal of open access.
http://www.bworldonline.com/BW100207/content.php?id=001
12. Business Mirror
Japan sweetens Jpepa pot
TOKYO UPS COMMITTED INVESTMENT TILL 2010 FROM P222B TO P365B
By Max V. de Leon
Reporter
IN what is viewed in some quarters as a sweetening of the Jpepa pot, Tokyo has raised the amount of its committed four-year investments in the country to P365 billion should the Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (Jpepa) hurdle Senate scrutiny.
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/10022007/headlines01.html
II. POLITICAL
Sing, solons tell Abalos
By Christian V. Esguerra
Inquirer
Last updated 11:55pm (Mla time) 10/01/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- Will he be the next whistleblower or will he just fade quietly into the sunset?
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=91896
Palace declares Eid Al-Fitr holiday
By Joel Guinto
INQUIRER.net
Last updated 10:43pm (Mla time) 10/01/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- (UPDATE) Malacañang has declared October 12 a non-working holiday to mark Eid Al-Fitr, the end of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=91873
(UPDATE) Cory Aquino visits Abalos after resignation
By Kristine L. Alave
Inquirer
Last updated 07:54pm (Mla time) 10/01/2007
MANILA, Philippines--Former president Corazon Aquino on Monday visited Benjamin Abalos Sr. after he announced his resignation as chairman of the Commission on Elections (Comelec), saying she was returning the support Abalos and his family gave her when she herself was plagued by crisis.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=91784
Catholic bishops 'thank God' that Abalos has quit
By Nikko Dizon
Inquirer
Last updated 07:51pm (Mla time) 10/01/2007
MANILA, Philippines—The country's Catholic bishops have thanked God that Commission on Elections Chairman Benjamin Abalos, Sr. has resigned, saying it was an answer to their prayers.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=91864
SAYS MILITARY CHIEF
Court ruling bars Trillanes from holding hearing in jail
By Joel Guinto
INQUIRER.net
Last updated 04:41pm (Mla time) 10/01/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- Military Chief General Hermogenes Esperon Jr. said he was only implementing a court ruling when he blocked Senator Antonio Trillanes IV from holding a hearing in his detention cell at the Marine headquarters in Fort Bonifacio.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=91811
Iloilo solon says Abalos resignation indication of guilt
Visayas Bureau
Last updated 04:37pm (Mla time) 10/01/2007
ILOILO CITY, Philippines -- Iloilo Vice Governor Rolex Suplico said the resignation of Commission on Elections (Comelec) chairman Benjamin Abalos Sr. was indicative of "guilt."
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=91808
(UPDATE) Palace 'respects' Abalos' resignation
By Joel Guinto
INQUIRER.net
Last updated 03:56pm (Mla time) 10/01/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- Malacañang said it "respects" Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman Benjamin Abalos' decision to resign, and at the same time "wished him well" in clearing his name.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=91769
President seemed surprised by Abalos's resignation--Puno
By Thea Alberto
INQUIRER.net
Last updated 03:15pm (Mla time) 10/01/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- The sudden resignation of Commission on Elections Chairman Benjamin Abalos, who had been in hot water for his alleged involvement in the $329-million National Broadband Project controversy, apparently surprised President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, a Palace official disclosed Monday.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=91782
Resignation statement of Abalos
INQUIRER.net
Last updated 02:26pm (Mla time) 10/01/2007
WHAT FOLLOWS is the full text of the resignation statement of Commission on Elections chairman Benjamin Abalos:
Magandang hapon po sa inyong lahat. Salamat at dumalo kaydo dito sa press conference na ipinatawag ko upang mai-pahayag sa ating kababayan ang kabuuan ng niluloob ko patungkol sa mga isyu at kontrobersiya na isinangkot ang aking pagkatao at ngayon ay nakaka-apekto ng hindi lamang sa trabaho at katungkulan ko bilang chairman ng Comelec [Commission on Elections] kundi pati na ang mga pribasiya, katahimikan at iba pang karapatan ng aking pamilya.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=91773
Opinion
A political tragedy that did not happen
FROM THE STANDS
By Domini M. Torrevillas
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
The first thing that crossed my mind when Joey de Venecia III — son of Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr. — started making his media blitzkrieg by unraveling “graft and corrupt practices acts” by some officials in handling the government’s National Broadband Network project, was the effect on the relationship between the President and Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr. that could lead into a deep misunderstanding and animosity, and which in turn, could result into legislative paralysis, turmoil on the streets, and disturbance on the national economy which is doing well.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Opinion&p=49&type=2&sec=25&aid=2007100194
President surprised by resignation
By Angelo S. Samonte, Reporter
President Gloria Arroyo was surprised by the resignation of Chairman Benjamin Abalos of the Commission on Elections (Comelec), but Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye said the Palace respects his decision.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/oct/02/yehey/top_stories/20071002top2.html
Rise and fall of Chairman Abalos
By Rommel C. Lontayao, Reporter
Benjamin S. Abalos Sr. was born into a poor family in Pangasinan on September 21, 1935. The Abalos family subsisted on farming up to the war years, and then moved to Manila to seek better fortunes, which unfortunately never came easy. Determined to break out of poverty, Abalos studied law while taking odd jobs as a janitor, factory worker and caddy at the Wack Wack Golf and Country Club.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/oct/02/yehey/top_stories/20071002top4.html
EDITORIAL
Ano ang kasunod?
Hati ang mga reaksyon sa pagbibitiw kahapon ni Chairman Benjamin Abalos sa Commission on Elections (Comelec).
May mga natuwa at may nalungkot. Meron pa ngang nainis at mga tamang duda.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/oct0207/main.htm
Gloria aareglo sa China
(Rey Marfil)
Hindi lamang usapin sa pagpapalakas ng relasyon ng dalawang bansa ang misyon ni Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo sa kanyang pagbisita sa People’s Republic of China (PROC) kundi para ‘linisin’ ang nangyaring gusot sa national broadband network (NBN) contract na napakasamay ng ZTE Corporation.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/oct0207/main.htm
Neri, Mendoza at JDV pinagre-resign din
(Bernard Taguinod)
Kasunod ng pagbibitiw ni Commission on Election (Comelec) chairman Benjamin Abalos, hinamon ng isang kongresista ang iba pang opisyales na sangkot sa broadband deal na magsipagbitiw na r in sa kanilang tungkulin.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/oct0207/main.htm
OPINION
Coming soon: ‘200’!
Kahit nag-resign at naunsyami ang impeachment case, iisa ang ‘final destination’ ni banker Ben Abalos, ito’y ‘mababasyo’ sa National Bilibid Prison (NBP) kapag sinampahan ng plunder at graft case sa Office of the Ombudsman at tuluyang umakyat sa Sandigangbayan. Sa maikling salita, ‘bilog ang mundo’ dahil nagsimula nang pagbayaran ng ama ni Mayor Benhur Abalos ang pagiging bias noong 2004 national election, sampu ng mga dispalinghadong kontratang pinalusot sa Comelec at pang-iipit sa election protest ng anti-GMA forces, katulad ng isang kaso sa Laguna, hindi ba’t nadiskaril ang counting dahil manugang ang natatalo sa mayoralty race.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/oct0207/main.htm
OPINION
Baon ng Pangulo sa China...
Ang galing din naman ng tiyempo ng resignation ni Chairman Benjamin Abalos...bisperas ng biyahe ng AKING MAHAL NA PANGULO papuntang China.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/oct0207/main.htm
October 3, 2007
I.BANNER STORIES
1. Philippine Daily Inquirer
Arroyo decides 'not to continue' with ZTE deal--Bunye
'Difficult decision' explained to China
By Michael Lim Ubac
Inquirer
Last updated 11:14pm (Mla time) 10/02/2007
SHANGHAI (VIA PLDT)—(UPDATE 2)President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has decided "not to continue" with the controversial $329-million contract for the National Broadband Network (NBN) project.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/topstories/topstories/view_article.php?article_id=92067
2. The Philippine Star
GMA scraps ZTE deal
By Marvin Sy
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
SHANGHAI (via PLDT) – President Arroyo personally conveyed to Chinese President Hu Jintao yesterday her decision to scrap the national broadband network (NBN) contract with Chinese firm ZTE Corp. during a brief meeting between the two world leaders here.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071002158
3. Manila Times
Arroyo cancels broadband deal
By Angelo S. Samonte, Reporter
President Gloria Arroyo told China’s president she will “stop” the controversial National Broadband Network deal awarded to ZTE Corp. of China, according to a report by the TV network GMA-7.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/oct/03/yehey/top_stories/20071003top1.html
4. Malaya
Senate freezes probe into broadband deal
No hearings until November
BY JP LOPEZ
THE freeze is on.
The Senate is expected to hold no further hearings on the inquiry into the $329 million national broadband deal until Congress returns for work on Nov. 5 after a one-month break which starts tomorrow.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/oct03/news1.htm
5. Manila Bulletin
6. The Daily Tribune
SC orals on stop Garci probe show plea flaws
By Benjamin B. Pulta
10/03/2007
If the Supreme Court (SC) justices’ questions and comments during yesterday’s oral arguments pertaining to the complaint lodged by two retired appellate justices who seek a stop to the ongoing Senate hearings on the wiretap probe, their appeal may just be denied by the high court.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071003hed1.html
7. Abante
HUMANDA KAYO!--ABALOS
Nina IRISH ANN CRUZ, BOYET JADULCO at ERALYN PRADO
"Kayo naman ang humanda!"
Ito ang binitawang banta ng nag-resign na chairman ng Commission on Elections (Comelec) na si Benjamin Abalos, matapos nitong pormal na ihayag sa commission en banc ang kanyang pagbitiw sa puwesto, laban sa kanyang mga detractors at kritiko, partikular na ang mga personalidad na nagdiin sa kanya sa kontrobersyal na National Broadband Network (NBN) deal.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/oct0307/main.htm
8. Abante-Tonite
9. Pilipino Star Ngayon
Abalos ’di tetestigo vs GMA
Ni Doris Franche
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
Walang balak si dating Comelec Chairman Benjamin Abalos na maging testigo laban kay Pangulong Arroyo kaugnay sa kontrobersiyal na $329.4-million ZTE National Broadband Network (NBN) deal sa kabila ng paghahamon sa kanya ng iba’t ibang sector.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=20071002115
10. Journal
NO HOPE FOR JPEPA
THE Senate is not likely to ratify a free trade agreement with Japan in the deal’s present form, Senate President Manuel Villar said.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-10-03&sec=1&aid=33670
11. Business World
US tagged as top growth risk
But ‘decoupling’ to mitigate impact on Asian economies
A SLOWING US ECONOMY remains the number one risk to global growth but Asia, including the Philippines, is gradually decoupling itself from the world’s biggest economy.
http://www.bworldonline.com/BW100307/content.php?id=001
12. Business Mirror
GMA explains ZTE fiasco to Hu
By Mia Gonzalez
Reporter
CHINESE President Hu Jintao told President Arroyo on Tuesday that he understood perfectly well why she had ordered the suspension of the national broadband network and cyber education projects, both funded by his government.
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/10032007/headlines01.html
II. POLITICAL
Abalos resignation stops House impeachment case
By Christian V. Esguerra, Dona Pazzibugan, Gil C. Cabacungan Jr.
Inquirer
Last updated 04:07am (Mla time) 10/02/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- His resignation has brought the impeachment case against him to an abrupt end, but he is not yet off the hook.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=91930
‘Business as usual’ at Comelec with Borra as acting chairman
By Beverly T. Natividad
Inquirer
Last updated 10:58pm (Mla time) 10/02/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- It’s “business as usual” at the Commission on Elections (Comelec) following the unprecedented exit of its chairman, Benjamin Abalos Sr., who officially turned over his post to Commissioner Resurreccion Borra on Tuesday.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=92098
Suplico mulls filing bribery case vs Abalos, First Gentleman
By Thea Alberto
INQUIRER.net
Last updated 07:10pm (Mla time) 10/02/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- Iloilo Vice Governor Rolex Suplico, who sought to impeach Benjamin Abalos Sr. days before he quit his post, might file bribery charges against the former elections chief.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=92073
RP-China ties won’t be affected by NBN deal row--Palace
By Joel Guinto
INQUIRER.net
Last updated 05:35pm (Mla time) 10/02/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- Ties between Manila and Beijing will not sour over the government's decision to suspend its $329-million telecommunications contract with China's ZTE Corp., President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s spokesman said Tuesday.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=92065
Speaker De Venecia urged to follow Abalos’ lead
By Maila Ager
INQUIRER.net
Last updated 05:06pm (Mla time) 10/02/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- Saying that the accusation against Speaker Jose de Venecia was “more serious,” a lawmaker at the House of Representatives has urged him to follow the lead of resigned Commission on Elections chairman Benjamin Abalos Sr.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=92061
Palace asked to start nomination process for 4 Comelec posts
By Veronica Uy
INQUIRER.net
Last updated 04:32pm (Mla time) 10/02/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- Malacañang should start an “open and transparent” nomination process for the four impending vacancies at the Commission on Elections, Senator Francis Escudero said Tuesday.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=92050
‘Watch your back,’ JDV told, as ouster move revived
By Jess Diaz
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
Watch your back.
That is the unsolicited advice House Minority Leader Ronaldo Zamora gave Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr. yesterday.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071002163
Meralco to reduce rates by 58.2¢ for this month
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
The Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) will reduce its rates by 58.2 centavos per kilowatt-hour (kWh) for this month.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071002164
Oct. 12, end of Ramadan, a holiday
By Paolo Romero
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
President Arroyo has declared Oct. 12, a Friday, as a regular holiday in observance of the Muslim Eid’l Fitr or the Feast of Ramadan.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071002166
AS I SEE IT
With Abalos down, Arroyo is next
By Neal Cruz
Inquirer
Last updated 03:07am (Mla time) 10/03/2007
MANILA, Philippines--Early Monday morning, Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chair Benjamin Abalos was still in fighting form, saying over the radio that he would not resign, that he would fight the impeachment case against him. Before noon, however, he announced in a hastily called press conference that he was resigning. What happened? Why the sudden turnaround?
http://opinion.inquirer.net/inquireropinion/columns/view_article.php?article_id=92134
Investors ignoring political noise – Teves
By Iris Gonzales
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
Finance Secretary Margarito Teves assured the people yesterday that foreign investors have ignored the political noise brought about by the controversial $329-million national broadband network (NBN) contract of the government and the Chinese firm ZTE Corp.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071002168
AT LARGE
A window of opportunity
By Rina Jimenez-David
Inquirer
Last updated 03:12am (Mla time) 10/03/2007
MANILA, Philippines--Now that Chair Benjamin Abalos has finally resigned from the Commission on Elections (Comelec), he leaves a window of opportunity for all well-meaning individuals, including, because hope springs eternal, the appointing power, to create a “new and refreshed” Comelec.
http://opinion.inquirer.net/inquireropinion/columns/view_article.php?article_id=92136
THERE’S THE RUB
Saving the Queen
By Conrado de Quiros
Inquirer
Last updated 03:09am (Mla time) 10/03/2007
MANILA, Philippines--Frankly, I cannot understand the reactions of people to the resignation of Benjamin Abalos.
http://opinion.inquirer.net/inquireropinion/columns/view_article.php?article_id=92135
Jockeying for top Comelec post starts
By Sheila Crisostomo
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
With the sudden resignation of Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman Benjamin Abalos, civil society groups expect intense jockeying for his replacement in the coming days.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071002169
Opinion
De Venecia could do a Villar
COMMONSENSE By Marichu A. Villanueva
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
The Philippine Senate started last Monday the month-long observance of the 91st founding anniversary of their institution. Senate President Manny Villar has the honor to lead their foundation anniversary celebration amid criticisms against him and some of his fellow Senators who are seen as using their institution as a launching pad, this early, for their May 2010 presidential ambition.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Opinion&p=49&type=2&sec=25&aid=20071002180
Trillanes files complaint vs military officials
By Aurea Calica
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV filed a complaint before the Senate yesterday against several military officials for alleged “arbitrary and whimsical act” of preventing him from conducting a hearing inside his detention cell at the Marine brig in Fort Bonifacio last week.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Metro&p=49&type=2&sec=26&aid=2007100299
GMA will not fill Comelec vacancy
PRESIDENT Gloria Arroyo will not appoint a new chairman at the Commission on Elections (Comelec), because Benjamin Abalos is considered on terminal leave for four months despite resigning from his post Monday, the Palace’s lawyer said.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/oct/03/yehey/top_stories/20071003top2.html
Kritiko ni GMA ang ipalit kay Abalos – Noynoy
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
Iginiit kahapon ni Sen. Benigno Aquino III kay Pangulong Arroyo na isang kritiko ng Presidente at ng kanyang administrasyon ang dapat ipalit sa nagbitiw na si Comelec Chairman Benjamin Abalos.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=20071002121
ZTE deal pag-uusapan sa China visit ni GMA
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
Inihayag kahapon ni Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita na posibleng pag-usapan nina Pangulong Arroyo at Chinese President Hu Jintao ang ukol sa broadband deal sa 2-araw na pagbisita ng Pangulo sa China.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=20071002123
Okt. 12, holiday
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
Idineklara ng Malacañang na holiday ang darating na October 12, Biyernes bilang paggunita sa pagtatapos ng Ramadan ng mga kapatid nating Muslim.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=20071002125
Opinyon
Palakpakan si Abalos!
AKSYON NGAYON Ni Al G. Pedroche
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
BRAVO! Tumpak ang ginawa mo Chairman Ben Abalos. Sa katayuan mo, pinakamarangal ang desisyon mong mag-resign bilang COMELEC Chairman. Pero para kina Senators Ping Lacson at Jamby Madrigal, mali pa rin. Diversionary tactic daw para pagtakpan ang tunay na isyu. Ano ba naman kayo honorable Senators?
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Opinyon&p=50&type=2&sec=56&aid=20071002141
BIG DEAL
By Dan Mariano
A general for the Republic
With Lt. Gen. Alexander Yano as one of two guests at the Kapihan sa Sulô Saturday, the question was bound to crop up: How has the ZTE-NBN controversy affected military morale?
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/oct/03/yehey/opinion/20071003opi2.html
INSIDE CONGRESS
By Efren L. Danao
The working Senate
When Sen. Loren Legarda went to Eastern Samar last Friday, she was swamped with complaints that the Senate was devoting most of its time to investigating alleged anomalies in government. Loren defended the Senate, saying that the spadework being done by the Senate for the enactment of priority bills had not been given prominence by the media. I agree with her.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/oct/03/yehey/opinion/20071003opi4.html
Bunye: China ‘understands’ suspension
BY REGINA BENGCO
THE Chinese government "understood perfectly well" why President Arroyo suspended the implementation of the $329-million national broadband network (NBN) project with ZTE Corp., Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye said in an interview in Shanghai.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/oct03/news2.htm
GMA, Hu to discuss ZTE deal
By: Tess Bedico
PRESIDENT Macapagal-Arroyo will discuss the government’s broadband contract with ZTE Corp. in her meeting with Chinese President Hu Jintao.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-10-03&sec=1&aid=33678
Trillanes seeks colleagues' help
By: Bernadette E. Tamayo
OPPOSITION Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV yesterday formally sought the help of his colleagues in the Upper Chamber to address the supposed “harassment” being employed by the Armed Forces leadership to prevent him from exercising his duty.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-10-03&sec=4&aid=33677
Meralco sets power rate cut
THE OCTOBER ELECTRICITY bills of households in Metro Manila and adjacent areas will be lower by at least 58 centavos per kilowatt-hour (kWh), courtesy of the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA) and lower generation charges.
http://www.bworldonline.com/BW100307/content.php?id=005
Japan-RP trade deal unlikely to be ratified in its current form
SENATORS are unlikely to ratify the Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (JPEPA) in the deal’s present form, Senate President Manuel B. Villar Jr. told the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines at a forum yesterday.
http://www.bworldonline.com/BW100307/content.php?id=052
October 4, 2007 Inc.
I.BANNER STORIES
1. Philippine Daily Inquirer
NBN deal probe in limbo?
Tycoon said to be meddling in investigation
By Gil C. Cabacungan Jr., Dona Pazzibugan, Christine Avendaño
Inquirer
Last updated 02:34am (Mla time) 10/04/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- The Senate probe of the $329-million contract for the National Broadband Network (NBN) project is in limbo amid allegations that Malacañang and a “powerful businessman” have allegedly “co-opted” the blue ribbon committee chaired by Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=92396
2. The Philippine Star
Broadband project still on, says Palace
By Paolo Romero
Thursday, October 4, 2007
The government is determined to set up a national broadband network despite its scrapping of a $329-million NBN deal with ZTE Corp. of China amid allegations of bribery and corruption that led to the resignation of elections chief Benjamin Abalos.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071003161
3. Manila Times
Senate to push on with ZTE hearings
By Efren L. Danao Senior Reporter
The Senate blue-ribbon committee will continue investigating the National Broadband Network deal with ZTE Corp. despite the President’s decision to cancel it, Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano said Wednesday.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/oct/04/yehey/top_stories/20071004top1.html
4. Malaya
Palace to revive broad band deal Ermita: Probe loses relevance
BY REGINA BENGCO
THE Arroyo government will let the controversy over the cancelled $329 million broadband deal with Chinese firm ZTE Corp. simmer down before pursuing a similar project in a different form before President Arroyo steps down in 2010, the Palace said yesterday.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/oct04/news1.htm
5. Manila Bulletin
Villar, JdV laud decision on ZTE deal
Shows gov’t is sensitive to public opinion – solons
Favila explains why gov’t scrapped NBN project
By BEN R. ROSARIO
Senate President Manuel B. Villar Jr. yesterday welcomed the cancellation of the $ 329-million national broadband network (NBN) deal with China’s ZTE Corp., saying President Arroyo heeded calls for her to "walk the talk" on government’s anti-corruption drive.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20071004104768.html
6. The Daily Tribune
Ermita: NBN deal not dead; revival likely
By Sherwin C. Olaes
10/04/2007
From all indications, the ZTE-national broadband network (NBN) contract has not quite been canceled and was merely “discontinued” temporarily with the stated intent of Malacañang to revive the project when the “situation dies down.”
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071004hed1.html
7. Abante
Senado sa kanseladong broadband deal
Nina Boyet Jadulco, Rose Miranda, Eralyn Prado, Irish Ann Cruz at Noel Abuel
Hindi pa lusot ang mga nasa likod ng $329 milyong National Broadband Network (NBN) project ng pamahalaan kahit kinansela na ni Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo ang kontrata sa ZTE Corp. ng China.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/oct0407/main.htm
8. Abante-Tonite
FIRST COUPLE DI PA LUSOT
(Rey Marfil)
Kasabay ang deklarasyong ‘victory’ sa panig ng Mataas na Kapulungan ng Kongreso ang tuluyang kanselasyon ng national broadband network (NBN) project, ayaw palusutin ni Senate majority floor leader Francis Pangilinan ang dating amo, partikular ang mag-asawang First Gentleman Mike at Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/oct0407/main.htm
9. Pilipino Star Ngayon
ZTE probe tuloy
Ni Malou Escudero
Thursday, October 4, 2007
Bitin pa umano ang hearing ng Senado sa kontrobersiyal na national broadband network (NBN) deal na pinasok ng gobyerno ng Pilipinas sa ZTE Corp. ng China dahil hindi pa natutukoy kung sino ang mga “utak”.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2007100381
10. Journal
SAVE JPEPA!
By: Tess Bedico
Palace scrambles to keep RP-Japan pact alive
PRESIDENT Macapagal-Arroyo may have killed the national broadband deal with China, but she will not allow the death of the Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement now foundering in the Senate.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-10-04&sec=1&aid=33803
11. Business World
China prodded on transparency
Beijing’s assurances welcomed given Arroyo administration’s recalcitrance
BUSINESS AND CIVIL SOCIETY GROUPS, dismayed by the Philippine government’s lack of transparency regarding a controversial telecommunications deal with China, are now pinning their hopes on action from Beijing.
http://www.bworldonline.com/BW100407/content.php?id=001
12. Business Mirror
Chinese miners invited to invest
ARROYO MAKES BUSINESS PITCH IN WAKE OF Z.T.E. BROADBAND DEAL CANCELLATION
By Rizal Raoul Reyes and Jonathan Mayuga
Correspondents
APPARENTLY banking on the “perfect understanding” that Beijing officials and business professed in light of her difficult decision to cancel the $330-million broadband deal with a state-picked telecom supplier, President Arroyo has turned to another investor sector in her state visit to China.
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/10042007/headlines01.html
II. POLITICAL
House may only touch 23% of P1.2-T nat’l budget
By Christian V. Esguerra
Inquirer
Last updated 02:46am (Mla time) 10/04/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- The Philippine government’s continuing payment of foreign debts has given the House of Representatives very little room to exercise its so-called “power of the purse” in the proposed P1.227-trillion national budget for 2008.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=92397
‘If Abalos is on leave, he can be impeached’
By Patricia Esteves
Thursday, October 4, 2007
Former senator Francisco Tatad urged the House of Representatives yesterday to push through with the impeachment of resigned Commission on Elections chairman Benjamin Abalos, who has reportedly not officially resigned.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071003162
SAYS SOLON
Foreign debt payment undermines House’ power of the purse
By Christian V. Esguerra
Inquirer
Last updated 10:35pm (Mla time) 10/03/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- The Philippine government’s continuing payment of foreign debts has given the House of Representatives little room to exercise its so-called “power of the purse” in the proposed P1.227-trillion national budget for 2008.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=92344
GMA certifies as urgent bill postponing village polls
By Paolo Romero
Thursday, October 4, 2007
President Arroyo has certified as “urgent” the proposal of the House of Representatives to defer the upcoming barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections on Oct. 29.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071003168
B’gay, SK bets who test positive for drug use can still run – poll exec
By Arnell Ozaeta
Thursday, October 4, 2007
BATANGAS CITY – Aspirants in the coming Oct. 29 barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections can still run despite testing positive in their drug test, the provincial officer of the Commission on Elections said yesterday.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071003174
Senators want to probe SOFA
By Aurea Calica
Thursday, October 4, 2007
Senators Manuel Roxas II and Jinggoy Estrada are asking the Senate to look into the Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA) signed between the Philippines and Australia on May 31.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071003178
Arroyo asked to appoint permanent CHed chairman
By Jerry E. Esplanada
Inquirer
Last updated 09:34pm (Mla time) 10/03/2007
MANILA, Philippines--Saying the Commission on Higher Education (CHEd) is undergoing a “leadership crisis,” a group of top CHed officials has asked President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to appoint a permanent chairman.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=92330
De Venecia allies warn against new ouster moves
By Eva Visperas
Thursday, October 4, 2007
MALASIQUI, Pangasinan – A Pangasinan lawmaker warned yesterday that moves to oust Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr. would project the Philippines as “unstable” before the international community.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071003179
Defense chief seeks Senate understanding on Trillanes case
By Joel Guinto
INQUIRER.net
Last updated 07:31pm (Mla time) 10/03/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. appealed for Senate President Manuel Villar's "understanding" of the military's decision not to allow Senator Antonio Trillanes IV from holding committee hearings at his detention cell in Fort Bonifacio.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=92317
‘I have nothing to fear,’ says De Venecia on ouster rumors
By Maila Ager
INQUIRER.net
Last updated 07:04pm (Mla time) 10/03/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- Speaker Jose de Venecia on Wednesday said he has “nothing to fear” amid rumors of moves to oust him as leader of the House of Representatives for allegedly helping his son bag a broadband project.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=92314
INFORMAL, ONE-ON-ONE
Senate ethics chair may invite PDI reporter to meeting
By Veronica Uy
INQUIRER.net
Last updated 01:41pm (Mla time) 10/03/2007
MANILA, Philippines--(UPDATE) Reporter Juliet Labog-Javellana of the Philippine Daily Inquirer (PDU) may be invited to an informal one-on-one meeting with the chairperson of the Senate committee on ethics, which has been tasked with investigating the alleged violation of the upper chamber's secrecy rules for its closed-door, executive sessions.
This was disclosed by Senator Pia Cayetano, chairperson and so far the only member of the still un-constituted Senate committee on ethics, to which the resolution and privilege speech of Senator Joker Arroyo have been referred.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=92218
House begins plenary debates on 2008 budget
By Maila Ager
INQUIRER.net
Last updated 12:55pm (Mla time) 10/03/2007
MANILA, Philippines - The House of Representatives has started its plenary debates on the proposed P1.227 trillion budget for 2008.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=92221
Senators Roxas, Estrada: Where is RP-Australia defense pact?
INQUIRER.net
Last updated 11:02am (Mla time) 10/03/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- Where is the Status of Forces Agreement (SoFA) between the Philippines and Australia? Why hasn't the treaty similar to the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) between the United States and the Philippines been referred to the Senate for its concurrence? Is the Philippine government still interested in getting it ratified?
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=92204
Villar sees doom for RP-Japan pact
Inquirer
Last updated 07:37am (Mla time) 10/03/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- Senators are unlikely to ratify a free trade agreement with Japan in the deal’s present form, Senate President Manuel Villar said Tuesday.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=92166
Bgy., SK polls pinapaatras ni GMA
Thursday, October 4, 2007
Pinaboran ng Malacañang ang muling pagpapaliban ng eleksyon para sa barangay at Sangguniang Kabataan dahil na rin sa matinding pakiusap ng mga kaalyado ni Pangulong Arroyo mula sa Kamara.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2007100381
M’cañang di maglalagay ng kapalit ni Abalos
Thursday, October 4, 2007
Walang balak si Pangulong Arroyo na magtalaga ng magiging kapalit ng nagbitiw na si Comelec chairman Benjamin Abalos.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2007100382
House starts debates on P1.227-T budget
By Maricel V. Cruz Reporter
THE House of Representatives on Wednesday began plenary debates on the Palace-proposed P1.227-trillion national budget for 2008, the biggest in the country’s history.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/oct/04/yehey/metro/20071004met1.html
Permanenteng CHED chairman, giniit
Thursday, October 4, 2007
Humingi na ng saklolo kay Pangulong Gloria Macapagal Arroyo ang mga empleyado ng Commission on Higher Education (CHED) para magtalaga na ito ng permanenteng Chairman ng kagawaran upang hindi maapektuhan ang kalidad ng edukasyon sa kolehiyo dahil sa magulong sistema nito ngayon.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Metro&p=50&type=2&sec=55&aid=2007100369
House starts debates on 2008 nat’l budget
By BEN R. ROSARIO
The House of Representatives launched yesterday plenary debates on the proposed R1.27-trillion national budget for 2008 with the sponsoring committee blaming the meagerness of the amount to the ballooning population and "useless and toxic loans" that require automatic appropriation.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MTNN20071004104775.html
GMA certifies bill postponing village, SK elections as ‘urgent’
President Arroyo has certified as urgent the bill postponing the Oct. 29 barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections, upon prodding by her allies at the House of Representatives who passed the measure recently.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MTNN20071004104778.html
Abalos resignation bogus; House urged to push impeach bid
10/04/2007
Former Sen. Francisco Tatad yesterday said there appears to be no record of Benjamin Abalos Sr. of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) having submitted a formal letter of resignation to President Arroyo and of her having accepted such resignation, thereby rendering questionable the veracity of Abalos’ announced resignation.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071004hed3.html
Gloria wants village, SK polls deferred for ’08
10/04/2007
President Arroyo has certified as urgent a bill for ratification by both Houses of Congress, calling for the deferment of the barangay and Sanguniang Kabataang elections from Oct. 29 to sometime next year.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/nation/20071004nat4.html
Palace asking for P114B ‘pork barrel’ for 2008
PRESIDENT Arroyo is asking Congress for more than a hundred billion in "pork barrel" funds for 2008.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/oct04/metro1.htm
GMA certifies as urgent bill postponing barangay polls
PRESIDENT Arroyo has certified as urgent the bill proposing a postponement of the barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections from Oct. 29 to August 2008.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/oct04/metro3.htm
Trillanes pumalag: Praning ang M’cañang
(Rey Marfil)
Ito ang naging paglalarawan ni opposition Senator Antonio "Sony" Trillanes IV sa panibagong harassment na natikman sa kamay ng mga dating opisyal at kasamahan sa Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), partikular ang pagbabawal sa kanya na makapagsagawa ng public hearing sa Fort Bonifacio.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/oct0407/main.htm
October 5, 2007
I.BANNER STORIES
1. Philippine Daily Inquirer
Senate summons Mike Arroyo to Oct. 25 hearing
Madrigal, Lacson want it soon
By Gil C. Cabacungan Jr.
Inquirer
Last updated 04:53am (Mla time) 10/05/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano, chair of the blue ribbon committee, Thursday announced that the inquiry into the $329-million broadband network deal would resume on Oct. 25 with President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s husband invited as the main witness.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=92656
2. The Philippine Star
FG invited to ZTE probe
By Aurea Calica
Friday, October 5, 2007
The Senate will invite First Gentleman Jose Miguel Arroyo to a hearing later this month as part of its investigation into the $329-million national broadband network (NBN) deal between the government and Chinese firm ZTE Corp.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071004150
3. Manila Times
GMA issues gag order on military
President issues order to improve RP’s human rights record
By Angelo S. Samonte Reporter
In a move that will likely provoke the Senate, President Gloria Arroyo placed a gag order on the military preventing them from talking about or disclosing information on matters of “national security.”
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/oct/05/yehey/top_stories/20071005top1.html
4. Malaya
JDV: Oust me if you can
In fighting mood after scrapping of broadband deal
BY WENDELL VIGILIA
SPEAKER Jose de Venecia on Wednesday dared the members of the House "reform bloc" to unseat him, saying they can go to Malacañang, and in jibe, "the White House."
http://www.malaya.com.ph/oct05/news1.htm
5. Manila Bulletin
Senate can’t be manipulated – Villar
Says chamber is committed to pursuit of truth Senate passes 9 bills to improve people’s lives
By GABRIEL S. MABUTAS
Senate President Manuel B. Villar Jr. asserted yesterday that the upper chamber cannot be manipulated to serve the needs of influential and powerful parties, especially on the conduct of investigations on questionable transactions of government.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20071005104863.html
6. The Daily Tribune
7. Abante
ABALOS, MANDADAWIT NA!
Nina JB SALARZON, ROSE MIRANDA at BOYET JADULCO
Maraming ‘big fish’ o malalaking pulitikong nais kaladkarin sa isyu ni resigned Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman Benjamin Abalos at hindi ito matatahimik hangga’t hindi niya ito naisasapubliko.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/oct0507/main.htm
8. Abante-Tonite
GLORIA-NERI TALKS
IPADEDETALYE
(Ni Rey Marfil With Bernard Taguinod)
Posibleng ipatawag ng Senado ang isang kongresista at isang kolumnista para makuha ang detalye ng usapang namagitan kina Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo at Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Chairman Romulo Neri hinggil sa broadband deal.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/oct0507/main.htm
9. Pilipino Star Ngayon
‘War’ sa Senado
Friday, October 5, 2007
Namumuo ang hidwaan sa pagitan ng mga senador matapos hayagang tutulan at tuligsain nina Sens. Juan Ponce Enrile at Joker Arroyo ang planog ituloy ang Senate probe sa ZTE brodband deal na tuluyan nang kinansela ng administrasyong Arroyo.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=20071004106
10. Journal
SQUABBLE
By: Bernadette E. Tamayo
Cayetano, Villar keeping NBN probe in limbo?
OPPOSITION senators are becoming “suspicious” of each other after some of them decided to temporarily suspend the investigation into the cancelled $329.5-million national broadband network project with China’s ZTE Corp. with First Gentleman Juan Miguel “Mike” Arroyo set to be called to testify at the next hearing in November.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-10-05&sec=1&aid=33946
11. Business World
Bangko Sentral cuts policy rates
THE BANGKO SENTRAL ng Pilipinas (BSP) yesterday pared down its key policy rate by an expected quarter-percentage point, citing a still benign inflation outlook despite rising global commodity prices.
http://www.bworldonline.com/BW100507/content.php?id=001
12. Business Mirror
Key rates cut by 25 basis pts
By Jun Vallecera
Reporter
THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) decided on Thursday to cut its policy rates by 25 basis points, a monetary stance seen to heighten local output already averaging at the higher-than-anticipated rate of 7.3 percent in the first half.
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/1005&062007/headlines01.html
II. POLITICAL
Talk of De Venecia ouster persists
Mike Arroyo, Kampi seen as threats
By Christian V. Esguerra, Norman Bordadora
Inquirer
Last updated 04:53am (Mla time) 10/05/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- What is really fuelling the effort to oust House Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr.?
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=92659
House to review foreign debt payments, says solon
By Christian V. Esguerra
Inquirer
Last updated 09:59pm (Mla time) 10/04/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- House members deliberating on the proposed P1.227-trillion national budget for 2008 are bent on exercising to the full Congress’s power of the purse by reviewing the automatic provision for foreign debt payments.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=92586
RP, India sign 4 MOUs for generic drugs
By Marvin Sy
Friday, October 5, 2007
MUMBAI – The Philippines has signed four business agreements here worth around $155 million, primarily on distributorships of pharmaceutical products.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071004152
Village, youth polls seen proceeding as scheduled
By Veronica Uy
INQUIRER.net
Last updated 06:02pm (Mla time) 10/04/2007
MANILA, Philippines--From all indications, despite the last-ditch attempt to come up with a congressional mandate to postpone the scheduled barangay (village) and sangguniang kabataan (youth council) elections to May 2008, the set polls will proceed as scheduled on October 29.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=92551
Senator Santiago urged to divulge ‘mystery’ justice
By Tetch Torres
INQUIRER.net
Last updated 05:38pm (Mla time) 10/04/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- A citizens group has urged Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago to divulge the identify of a Supreme Court justice she had accused of spearheading a smear campaign against fellow Justice Consuelo Ynares-Santiago.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=92541
9 bills get Senate nod
By Christina Mendez
Friday, October 5, 2007
The Senate passed nine bills on second reading before suspending its session late Wednesday night, Senate President Manuel Villar Jr. said yesterday.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071004154
Senate passes 9 bills before it goes on break
By Veronica Uy
INQUIRER.net
Last updated 03:32pm (Mla time) 10/04/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- A week before the 14th Congress goes on a three-week break, the Senate has passed nine bills, Senate President Manuel Villar said Thursday.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=92517
Hike in unprogrammed Palace funds questioned
By Norman Bordadora
Inquirer
Last updated 06:28am (Mla time) 10/04/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- A member of the self-styled reform bloc in the majority coalition in the House of Representatives on Wednesday sounded the alarm over the increase in the unprogrammed funds of the Executive Branch, particularly the Office of the President, in the proposed 2008 national budget
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=92415
Sabio tells Senate he resigned from GOCC posts
By Christina Mendez
Friday, October 5, 2007
Presidential Commission on Good Government Chairman Camilo Sabio has resigned from his other posts as chairman of the board of government-seized corporations, bowing to the mounting pressure from the Senate for PCGG officials to get their act together in going after the Marcos wealth.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071004159
China’s 2nd richest man investing up to $4 billion in RP
By Marvin Sy
Friday, October 5, 2007
China’s second richest man is investing between $2 billion and $4 billion in high-end hotels and residential properties in the Philippines.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071004160
House may only touch 23% of P1.2-T nat’l budget
By Christian V. Esguerra
Inquirer
Last updated 02:46am (Mla time) 10/04/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- The Philippine government’s continuing payment of foreign debts has given the House of Representatives very little room to exercise its so-called “power of the purse” in the proposed P1.227-trillion national budget for 2008.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=92397
ZTE says it respects GMA’s decision to end broadband deal
Friday, October 5, 2007
Maintaining that it offered “the best technical and financial proposal” for the establishment of a government broadband network, ZTE Corp. of China said yesterday that it respected the decision of President Arroyo to discontinue the project.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071004162
AT LARGE
The business of being Senate president
By Rina Jimenez-David
Inquirer
Last updated 01:27am (Mla time) 10/05/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- It was the first day of the Senate recess, “our first day of vacation,” as he put it, and though he was scheduled to fly out of the country with his family yesterday, Senate President Manny Villar made time to lunch and share chit-chat with media women at the Sofitel’s “Spirals” buffet.
http://opinion.inquirer.net/inquireropinion/columns/view_article.php?article_id=92632
AS I SEE IT
Barangay polls: Corruption at the grass roots
By Neal Cruz
Inquirer
Last updated 01:23am (Mla time) 10/05/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- If Congress does not pass a law postponing the “barangay” [village or neighborhood district] council elections, the polls will push through as scheduled before the end of this month. It would mean spending billions of pesos for something that we don’t need, like the National Broadband Network. We would be better off without barangay elections.
http://opinion.inquirer.net/inquireropinion/columns/view_article.php?article_id=92630
EDITORIAL
Confusion on October 29
It looks like we are facing massive confusion on October 29, the day we are scheduled to elect our barangay officials and the officers of the Sangguniang Kabataan.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/oct/05/yehey/opinion/20071005opi1.html
Comelec prepared for barangay, SK elections – Borra
By E.T. SUAREZ
Commission on Elections (Comelec) Commissioner and Chairman officer-in-charge Resurreccion Z. Borra assured yesterday that the poll body is preparing adequately for the Oct. 29, 2007 barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections in which a total of 671,120 village officials will be elected.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20071005104866.html
Abalos resignation bogus; House urged to push impeach bid
10/04/2007
Former Sen. Francisco Tatad yesterday said there appears to be no record of Benjamin Abalos Sr. of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) having submitted a formal letter of resignation to President Arroyo and of her having accepted such resignation, thereby rendering questionable the veracity of Abalos’ announced resignation.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071004hed3.html
Benefits for 'kasambahays' pushed
Sen. Loren Legarda has moved for the provision of benefits for household workers or "kasambahays," including 13th month pay, medical and maternity support, vacation leave, and membership to the Social Security System (SSS).
http://www.mb.com.ph/MTNN20071005104874.html
Gloria invites Indian drug manufacturers
BY REGINA BENGCO
PRESIDENT Arroyo yesterday urged India’s pharmaceutical companies to make the Philippines their main base of operations in Southeast Asia.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/oct05/news4.htm
Senate okays 9 bills
TRUE to its promise that the Senate will be a multi-tasking Senate and will pass legislative measures while conducting investigations, Senate President Manny Villar announced that the Upper Chamber passed on second reading yesterday four more bills, for a total of nine bills passed before going to a four-week break.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-10-05&sec=4&aid=33860
No JPEPA deal better than bad deal -- Roxas
“IN trade negotiations, no deal is always better than a bad deal.”
This was the observation Sen. Mar Roxas yesterday as he challenged government trade negotiators “to show us -- in specific, concrete terms -- how the Japan Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement will redound to the benefit of our people.”
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-10-05&sec=4&aid=33876
‘Big fishes’ vs Abalos
By: Lee Ann P. Ducusin
THE lawyer of resigned Commission on Elections Chairman Benjamin Abalos said “big fishes” are behind the smear campaign against his client.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-10-05&sec=4&aid=33943
Beltran calls for transparent deals
By: Jester P. Manalastas
BECAUSE of the national broadband network fiasco, the Arroyo administration has been urged to be more transparent with the next agreement or project it will enter into.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-10-05&sec=4&aid=33953
Government urged to boost Jpepa defense
By Butch Fernandez
Reporter
THOSE advocating rejection of the “lopsided” Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (Jpepa) demolished the arguments of government representatives at the resumption of Jpepa hearings on Thursday, further dimming the chances of getting the trade pact ratified.
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/1005&062007/headlines03.html
Hirit vs bgy. polls banderang kapos
(Rey Marfil)
Hindi lamang ‘patay’ kundi matagal nang "inilibing sa hukay" ng Mataas na Kapulungan ng Kongreso ang postponement ng Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) at Barangay election na itinutulak ni Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/oct0507/main.htm
Senate may press JPEPA renegotiation
THE SENATE may end up sending the Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement, or JPEPA, back to Malacañang for renegotiation — a move that would be tantamount to rejection — if key Trade and Foreign Affairs officials still fail to convince senators that actual benefits outweigh the risks under this pact in the final public hearing of the foreign relations committee this Monday.
http://www.bworldonline.com/BW100507/content.php?id=054
October 8, 2007
I.BANNER STORIES
1. Philippine Daily Inquirer
Pacquiao whips aging foe
Barrera escapes KO by throwing dirty blow
By Recah Trinidad
Inquirer
Last updated 02:07am (Mla time) 10/08/2007
LAS VEGAS -- Manny Pacquiao, landing sporadic big shots but failing to follow up, carved out a unanimous decision victory over Mexican Marco Antonio Barrera, who later announced his retirement, at the Mandalay Bay Resort Casino here Saturday night (Sunday morning in Manila).
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=93118
2. The Philippine Star
Too fast, too furious
By Abac Cordero
Monday, October 8, 2007
LAS VEGAS – Manny Pacquiao proved faster and stronger as he outclassed a Marco Antonio Barrera that wasn’t ready to go down yesterday, putting a closure on the Mexican’s storied career with a unanimous decision.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071007110
3. Manila Times
Pacquiao pummels Barrera, wins in 12
LAS VEGAS: Filipino boxing hero Manny Pacquiao continued his mastery over veteran Marco Antonio Barrera on Sunday with unanimous 12-round decision in their super featherweight fight.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/oct/08/yehey/top_stories/20071008top1.html
4. Malaya
Pacquiao hammers Barrera into retirement Wins Vegas 12-rounder by unanimous decision
LAS VEGAS, Nev — Manny Pacquiao scored a unanimous decision over Marco Antonio Barrera in their super featherweight clash Saturday, sending the Mexican icon into retirement.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/oct08/news1.htm
5. Manila Bulletin
6. The Daily Tribune
GMA pushes ‘overpriced’ CyberEd deal
By Sherwin C. Olaes and Michaela P. del Callar
10/08/2007
President Arroyo has batted for the continuation of the allegedly overpriced Cyber Education (CyberEd) project of the Department of Education (DepEd) that the Philippines had entered into with the Chinese government.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071008hed1.html
7. Abante
ANGAT TALAGA!
PACQUIAO DINOMENA SI BARRERA
LAS VEGAS --- Apat na taon ang nakararaan, binugbog ni Manny Pacquiao si Marco Antonio Barrera tungo sa 11th round technical knockout victory. Sa pagkakataon ito, hindi naulit ng Pinoy ring icon ang pangyayaring iyon, subalit malinaw na dinomena niya ang Mehikano sa kabuuan ng rematch.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/oct0807/main.htm
8. Abante-Tonite
‘SALAMAT PACMAN’
Ni Rey Marfil
Katulad ng inaasahan, kaliwa’t kanang papuri ang ibinigay ng ilang miyembro ng Matataas na Kapulungan ng Kongreso kay Peoples Champ Manny ‘Pacman’ Pacquiao matapos ang panalo nito laban kay Mexican boxer Marco Antonio Barrera.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/oct0807/main.htm
9. Pilipino Star Ngayon
‘Oust JDV’ lumalakas
Monday, October 8, 2007
Lumalaki na umano ang bilang ng mga kongresistang mula sa administrasyon at oposisyon na gusto nang sibakin sa puwesto si House Speaker Jose de Venecia.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2007100777
10. Journal
MANNY ALL THE WAY
Pacquiao scores 12-round decision over Barrera
LAS VEGAS - It wasn’t exactly a classic rematch nor a Fight of the Year contender as many people thought it would be.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-10-08&sec=1&aid=34301
11. Business World
Make-or-break pitch for JPEPA
OFFICIALS CAMPAIGNING for the Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement’s (JPEPA) approval have one final chance today to convince senators on the merits of affirming the country’s first bilateral free trade deal.
http://www.bworldonline.com/BW100807/content.php?id=001
12. Business Mirror
Peso hurts food exporters
By Jennifer A. Ng
Reporter
FOOD exporters warned over the weekend that companies may shut down if the peso continues to strengthen and nears the P40 to the dollar level.
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/10082007/headlines01.html
II. POLITICAL
CBCP hits P1-B condom fund
By Evelyn Macairan
Monday, October 8, 2007
The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) has called \on legislators to spend on projects that would alleviate poverty and provide free education to poor children, instead of spending P1 billion for the purchase of contraceptives, CBCP president and Jaro, Iloilo Archbishop Angel Lagdameo said in a statement Saturday.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071007113
Impeachment complaint will be thrown out--Arroyo ally
By Christine Avendaño
Inquirer
Last updated 09:08pm (Mla time) 10/07/2007
MANILA, Philippines--Administration allies continue to belittle the latest impeachment complaint against President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=93082
Wanted: Lakas standard bearer
By Jess Diaz
Monday, October 8, 2007
The ruling Lakas party has started its search for a presidential standard bearer for the 2010 elections.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071007114
RP-India deals seen spurring more agri investments
By Amy R. Remo
Inquirer
Last updated 09:40pm (Mla time) 10/07/2007
MANILA -- Citing the lack of investments in the farm sector, the agriculture department is finalizing another set of investment agreements, this time, with India.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=93045
Proposed measure to protect military secrets backed
Monday, October 8, 2007
A ranking administration lawmaker expressed support for Malacañang’s proposal for Congress to draft a measure that would protect military secrets.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071007121
Paghahanda sa Barangay, SK polls hindi mababasura – Comelec
Monday, October 8, 2007
Tiniyak ng Commission on Elections (Comelec) na hindi mababalewala ang isinasagawa nilang paghahanda para sa nakatakdang halalan sa darating na Oktubre 29 sakaling matuloy ang panukalang ipagpaliban ito sa susunod na taon.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2007100786
Barangay polls needed to check accountability
By Nora O. Gamolo, Senior Desk Editor
The October 29 polls is a time to hold barangay officials accountable for their policies and actions, said Alex Brilliantes, internationally renowned local government expert and dean of the National College of Public Administration and Governance at the University of the Philippines.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/oct/08/yehey/top_stories/20071008top4.html
SK training youths tobe ‘trapo’—students
By Rommel C. Lontayao, Reporter
Second of two parts
Editor’s note: The previous part reported student leaders and educators want the Sang-guniang Kabataan (SK) abolished. They also want its funding given instead to the Department of Education to address a host of problems there, like a shortage in classrooms.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/oct/08/yehey/top_stories/20071008top5.html
Opinyon
EDITORYAL – Kontrolin ang populasyon para makontrol ang kahirapan
Monday, October 8, 2007
ISA raw sa mga dahilan kaya napapanatili ng Thailand ang tamang dami ng tao ay dahil sa mahusay na population management. Noong dekada ’70 ay halos magkasingdami lamang ang population ng Thailand at Pilipinas pero ngayon ay malayo na sila sa isa’t isa. Ang Pilipinas ay patuloy pa sa pagdami samantalang ang Thailand ay nami-maintain ang tamang population.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Opinyon&p=50&type=2&sec=56
No training status for Filipino nurses in Japan
The Department of Labor and Employment today belied claims that Filipino nurses who will be deployed to Japan will be given only an on-the-job training (OJT) status once they are there, saying that this is totally misleading.
In a statement, the DOLE said that under the Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (JPEPA), Filipino nurses who fail in the Japan licensure exam may still undergo a supervised training under a Japanese licensed nurse, but not as a nursing aide or trainee.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/oct/08/yehey/metro/20071008met3.html
‘Impeach-me’ ploy imagination of GMA critics — Palace aide
10/08/2007
Malacañang has dismissed allegations that the latest impeachment complaint filed against President Arroyo was the handiwork of the Palace in an apparent move to put a stop the Senate investigation of the alleged involvement of the Chief Executive in the ZTE-National Broadband Network (NBN) project.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071008hed2.html
Ched employees want insider to replace Neri
10/08/2007
With the ruckus and the growing calls for the immediate resignation of Commission on Higher Education acting Chairman Romulo Neri, employees of the agency have recommended an official who rose from the ranks to head the Ched.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071008hed6.html
Full-blown GMA-JDV war seen
BY WENDELL VIGILIA
THE House minority bloc yesterday warned of a full-blown war between Malacañang and Speaker Jose de Venecia which could result in a "gargantuan political crisis."
http://www.malaya.com.ph/oct08/news2.htm
Gov’t: Return of P1.3B in scrapped poll project up to SC
10/08/2007
Malacañang won’t have anything to do with the call to have the concerned officials of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) return the P1.3 billion in government funds it had spent in the scrapped contract for the poll modernization project in 2004, saying it is up to the Supreme Court (SC) to press the implementation of its own ruling on the issue.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/nation/20071008nat4.html
Villar pushes non-partisan replacement for Abalos
SENATE President Manuel Villar yesterday pushed for a "non-partisan" chairman of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to replace resigned Benjamin Abalos.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/oct08/news7.htm
Motibo ng impeach 3 vs Gloria pinagdududahan ang motibo
(Eralyn Prado/Rose Miranda/Rey Marfil)
Duda ang minorya sa motibo ng panibagong inihaing impeachment complaint laban kay Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/oct0807/main.htm
JDV hinamon na isampa sa Senado ang impeachment kay GMA
By: Ryan Ponce Pacpaco
SA halip na ngumawa at mambatikos, hinamon kahapon ng endorser ng impeachment complaint laban kay Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo sina House Speaker Jose de Venecia, Jr. at oposisyon na iendorso ang reklamo at agarang dalhin sa Senate Impeachment Court ang Articles of Impeachment.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-10-08&sec=1&aid=34218
Fraport bribed gov’t execs -- judge
FRAPORT and its local partner tapped the services of a consultant to bribe government officials to obtain various approvals for the construction of the controversial Ninoy Aquino International Airport-Terminal 3 (NAIA-3), a German commercial court judge said in a criminal complaint he filed against the officials of the German state controlled corporation.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-10-08&sec=4&aid=34251
Pia fights for women equality
By: Bernadette E. Tamayo
SEN. Pia Cayetano has filed a bill seeking to protect Filipino women from gender discrimination.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-10-08&sec=4&aid=34271
October 8, 2007 update
Update:
Senate bent on continuing NBN probe
By Gil C. Cabacungan Jr.
Inquirer
Last updated 07:38am (Mla time) 10/08/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- Some senators are determined to continue their probe of the $329-million National Broadband Network deal despite a suspicious impeachment complaint filed against President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo in the House of Representatives.
After getting criticisms from fellow senators for allegedly killing the momentum on the ZTE-NBN probe, a beleaguered Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano, chair of the Blue Ribbon Committee, announced on Friday that the next hearing would be held on Oct. 25.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=93152
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