SEPTEMBER 13, 2007
I.BANNER STORIES
1. Philippine Daily Inquirer
Estrada guilty of plunder
MANILA, Philippines -- “I took a gamble,” Joseph Estrada said -- and the nation watched as the gambler lost.
In generally subdued proceedings that lasted barely 15 minutes and broadcast live on radio and television, the Sandiganbayan’s Special Division Wednesday pronounced the 70-year-old ousted President guilty of plunder and sentenced him up to 40 years in prison. He left the courtroom teary-eyed and trailed by weeping family members and supporters
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=88288
2. The Manila Times
| Joseph Estrada convicted of plunder |
| GUILTY |
|
|
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/sept/13/yehey/top_stories/20070913top1.html
3. The Philippine Star
GUILTY
By Sandy Araneta
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Former President Joseph Estrada, who got the highest number of votes in Philippine history when he ran for president in 1998, was convicted of plunder yesterday and sentenced to spend practically the rest of his life in jail.
Estrada, 70, showed no emotion at first when the Sandiganbayan’s special division sentenced him to reclusion perpetua or 40 years imprisonment.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20070912191
4. Malaya
Life sentence for Erap, P876M deposits, house forfeited
BY PETER TABINGO
FORMER President Joseph Estrada was convicted yesterday of the crime of plunder and sentenced to life imprisonment, with a maximum of 40 years.
But the Sandiganbayan Special Division acquitted him of the crime of perjury for lack of evidence.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/sept13/news1.htm
5. Manila Bulletin
The Sandiganbayan Special Division yesterday convicted and sentenced to life in prison former President Joseph "Erap" Estrada following a historic six-year-old trial on charges that he amassed ill-gotten wealth during his shortlived presidency.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20070913102838.html
6. The Daily Tribune
Erap on guilty verdict: ‘Kangaroo court convicted me’
Ousted President Joseph Estrada was yesterday convicted by the Sandiganbayan Special Division on plunder, basing the conviction on two specifications: the jueteng payoffs and the Belle shares commissions and acquitted on the minor charge of perjury.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20070913hed1.html
7. Abante
GUILTY VERDICT WARNING SA NAKAUPO
Ibinaba kahapon ng Special Division ng Sandiganbayan ang hatol na ‘guilty’ kay dating Pangulong Joseph Estrada sa kasong plunder samantalang ‘not guilty’ naman sa kasong perjury. Ang parusang ipinataw ay ‘reclusion perpetua’ o habambuhay na pagkabilanggo na may katapat na jail term na 20 hanggang 40 taon.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/sep1307/main.htm
8. Abante-Tonite
IKULONG N’YO AKO SA BILIBID -- ERAP
(Bernard Taguinod/Rey Marfil With Grace Velasco/Noel Abuel)
Hindi pabor si dating Pangulong Joseph Estrada na pagkalooban siya ng special treatment ng gobyerno ni Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo sa halip mas nanaisin nitong makulong sa National Bilibid Prison (NBP) sa Muntinlupa kaysa sa kanyang resthouse sa Tanay, Rizal.
http://abante-tonite.com/issue/sep1307/main.htm
9. Pilipino Star Ngayon
Erap guilty sa plunder!
Nina Butch Quejada at Angie Dela Cruz
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Hinatulan ng reclusion perpetua o 40 taong pagkakakulong ng Sandiganbayan si dating Pangulong Joseph “Erap” Estrada matapos mapatunayang guilty sa kasong plunder o pandarambong, pero pinawalang sala naman ito sa kasong perjury o pagsisinungaling.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=20070912135
10. Journal
| GUILTY! |
| By: Hector Lawas |
| THE Sandiganbayan yesterday convicted former President Joseph Estrada of the crime of plunder and sentenced him to life imprisonment for receiving huge amounts of bribe and protection money from jueteng operators, thus ending perhaps the most controversial criminal cases in the country’s history. |
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-09-13&sec=1&aid=31296
11. Business World
Life in jail for Estrada, Ex-president guilty of plunder
FORMER PRESIDENT Joseph Ejercito Estrada was sentenced to life in prison yesterday after an anti-graft court, capping a six-year trial that had led to strong divisions among Filipinos, found him guilty of the crime of plunder.
http://www.bworldonline.com/BW091307/content.php?id=001
12. Business Mirror
| Guilty of plunder |
| |
| By Rene Acosta |
| Reporters |
| THE Special Division of the Sandiganbayan on Wednesday convicted former President Joseph Estrada on two counts of plunder and sentenced him to life imprisonment, but did not commit him to the National Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa. |
II. POLITICAL
Arroyo: Verdict on Estrada to end destabilization talk
MANILA, Philippines -- President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo said Wednesday night the Sandiganbayan decision to convict former President Joseph Estrada should put an end to destabilization talk, but calls were made for her to bring to trial cases of plunder and corruption committed under her administration.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=88289
Show of force: An overkill -- Jinggoy Estrada
MANILA, Philippines -- The show of force was an overkill, but the Philippine National Police said it was better to have “overreacted” than to be caught unprepared.
Sen. Jose “Jinggoy” Estrada said the PNP was “overreacting” when it said it would field some 6,000 policemen Wednesday for the handing down of the Sandiganbayan’s verdict on the plunder, corruption and perjury charges against former President Joseph Estrada.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=88303
Jinggoy slams ‘political vendetta’
By Christina Mendez
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Sen. Jinggoy Estrada, one of the co-accused in the plunder trial of former President Estrada, said the anti-graft court’s decision was a political vendetta by President Arroyo and a ploy to legitimize her administration.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20070912192
Court bases decision on two illegal acts
MANILA, Philippines -- Four illegal acts constituted the plunder charge filed against deposed President Joseph Estrada, but prosecutors were only able to pin him down on two -- his systematic collection of P545 million in illegal gambling payoffs and his receipt of a P189-million commission from stock market purchases using state pension funds.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=88298
Senate invites Bunye, Gonzales to next Garci hearing
By Aurea Calica
Thursday, September 13, 2007
The Senate formally invited Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye and National Security Adviser Norberto Gonzales to attend the next hearing on the “Hello Garci” wiretapping case on Monday, where former military intelligence agent T/Sgt. Vidal Doble Jr. would testify for a second time.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20070912199
Chavit feels vindicated, MJ forgiving, Atong sad
Former Ilocos Sur Gov. Luis “Chavit” Singson, deposed President Joseph Estrada’s best friend turned-whistle-blower, feels vindicated by the verdict. With business associates in one of his homes in Metro Manila, he watched the Sandiganbayan’s promulgation of its decision on TV.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=88301
The man who started it all says he feels vindicated
By Delon Porcalla
Thursday, September 13, 2007
The man who started it all – former Ilocos Sur governor Luis “Chavit” Singson – expressed his elation yesterday in seeing his erstwhile buddy, former President Joseph Estrada, getting convicted for plunder.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20070912201
Estrada: We’ll fight, will file motion for reconsideration
MANILA, Philippines -- For Joseph Estrada, it was far from being the end of the world. For him, the fight had just begun.
Initially looking glum after being convicted of plunder, the deposed President Wednesday vowed to “fight to the end” what he decried as a “political ruling,” and thumbed down any offer of pardon.
One of his lawyers, Estelito Mendoza, said the defense would file a motion for reconsideration with the anti-graft court.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=88299
Reconciliation kay Erap itutulak ng Malacañang
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Handa ang Malacañang na mag-alok ng rekonsilyasyon kay dating Pangulong Estrada matapos maibaba ng Sandiganbayan ang hatol na 40 taong pagkakakulong dito dahil sa kasong plunder.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=20070912138
Verdict serves as a warning to Arroyo, too
MANILA, Philippines -- The country was unruffled Wednesday when the Sandiganbayan handed down its decision finding deposed President Joseph Estrada guilty of the crime of plunder, inscribing his name in Philippine history as the first Filipino President ever to be convicted of the crime of plunder -- or of any crime, for that matter.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=88305
| Jinggoy acquitted but disappointed |
| By Efren L. Danao, Senior Reporter Sen. Jinggoy Estrada questioned why he was acquitted of the plunder charge, while his father, former President Estrada, was found guilty. “The Plunder Law specifically mentions the presence of conspiracy for plunder to take place,” said the younger Estrada, who was co-accused with his father in the plunder case. |
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/sept/13/yehey/top_stories/20070913top2.html
Erap verdict ‘niluto’ — Jinggoy
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Sa halip na magbunyi dahil napawalang sala siya sa kasong plunder sa Sandiganbayan Special Division, nalungkot at nadismaya si Senate President Pro-Tempore Jose “Jinggoy” Estrada sa “guilty verdict” na ipinataw ng korte sa kanyang amang si dating Pangulong Joseph Estrada.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=20070912136
Senate issues subpoenas to three ‘Garci’ witnesses
The Senate has issued subpoenas to former Armed Forces chief of staff Efren Abu, Vice Admiral Tirso Danga and former National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) deputy director Samuel Ong for the second hearing of the "Hello, Garci" investigation set for Monday next week.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20070913102839.html
UNO: Last piece in ‘illegitimacy puzzle’
BY ASHZEL HACHERO
THE United Opposition (UNO) yesterday said the guilty verdict handed down by the Sandiganbayan on former President Joseph was the last piece in the Arroyo administration’s "illegitimacy puzzle."
http://www.malaya.com.ph/sept13/news2.htm
SC gives Senate 15 days to answer plea to stop Garci hearings
THE Supreme Court yesterday gave the Senate 15 days to comment on the petition filed by former Court of Appeals associate justices Santiago Rañada and Oswaldo Agaoili seeking to stop the joint investigation being conducted by three Senate committees on the alleged wiretapped conversation between President Arroyo and former elections commissioner Virgilio Garcillano.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/sept13/metro1.htm
GMA solon slams Senate ‘Hello Garci’ revival
Cebu Rep. Pablo Garcia Sr. of the Kabalikat ng Malayang Pilipino (Kampi), the political party founded by President Arroyo, yesterday lambasted the Senate investigation of the “Hello Garci” tapes as “making a mockery” of Republic Act 4200, or the anti-wiretapping act.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/nation/20070913nat7.html
Si Gloria na ang sunod
Kung guilty si Erap ng plunder, ano gagawin sa pinakamalaking magnanakaw na si Gloria Arroyo?
Maari bang makulong si Erap samantalang ang mas malaking magnanakaw, hindi lamang ng pera kundi boto ng taumbayan ay nagpapasarap sa Malacañang?
Ang mga anomalya ni Gloria: "Hello Garci", P16 bilyon ZTE broadband, Fertilizer scam, North rail.
Ilan lamang ‘yan at lumabas nga sa SWS survey na "enriching" o patuloy pa sa oras na ito ang pangungurakot si Arroyo.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/sep1307/main.htm
Pardon hirit ni Noli
(Rey Marfil)
Sa gitna ng matinding pagdaramdam ng pamilya Estrada, sa habambuhay na pagkabilanggong iginawad ng Sandiganbayan Special Division laban kay dating Pangulong Joseph "Erap" Estrada, kaagad naman inilutang ng Malacañang ang presidential pardon dito.
http://abante-tonite.com/issue/sep1307/main.htm
| Critics vow to seek TRO if JPEPA is ratified |
| |
| By Max V. de Leon |
| Reporter |
| THE Fair Trade Alliance (FTA) said they plan to immediately seek a temporary restraining order and later an injunction from the Supreme Court (SC) should the Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (JPEPA) is ratified by the Senate. |
http://businessmirror.com.ph/09132007/headlines09.html
SEPTEMBER 14, 2007
I.BANNER STORIES
1. Philippine Daily Inquirer
Speaker’s son: Abalos bugged me, Says poll chair told him of wiretap
By Tony Bergonia
Inquirer
Last updated 02:59am (Mla time) 09/14/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- The head of a Filipino firm that was sidetracked in the $329-million National Broadband Network (NBN) project said he was wiretapped by Commission on Elections Chair Benjamin Abalos to monitor his conversations with officials of Chinese firm ZTE Corp., which bagged the NBN deal.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=88473
2. The Philippine Star
Many people commit plunder every day’
By Sandy Araneta
Friday, September 14, 2007
On any given day, many people like former President Joseph Estrada commit plunder, if one were to go by the decision of the Sandiganbayan in convicting the disgraced leader, former solicitor general Estelito Mendoza said yesterday.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20070913184
3. Malaya
Do an Erap on allies, opposition tells Gloria, Slams hypocrisy on corruption
BY ASHZEL HACHERO
THE United Opposition (UNO) yesterday challenged President Arroyo to make good on her statement that the conviction of former President Joseph Estrada is a sign that the "rule of law" prevails, by prosecuting government officials and her political allies involved in similar cases.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/sept14/news1.htm
4. Manila Bulletin
| Honor contracts & agreements – GMA |
|
|
| Amid moves to stop broadband project with ZTE Senate leaders welcome TRO from Supreme Court |
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20070914102924.html
5. The Daily Tribune
2 justices advised not to accept SC position after guilty verdict
Erap’s legal team: Sandigan erred in convicting Estrada
By Charlie V. Manalo
Battle-scarred but definitely not scared of another big fight, the legal team of convicted President Joseph Estrada readied itself for one big push toward regaining freedom for the former Chief Executive and the eventual vindication of his name at the last bastion of justice and democracy, the Supreme Court, but first, the battle with the anti-graft court, which it said erred grievously in its decision against Estrada.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20070914hed1.html
6. Abante
GMA MAS MADALING MA-CONVICT--OBISPO
Kung mayroong dapat na maparusahan kasunod ni dating Pangulong Joseph Estrada, walang gatol na sinabi ng isang obispo ng Simbahang Katoliko na ito’y dili iba’t si Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/sep1407/main.htm
7. Abante-Tonite
PAGLAYA NI ERAP NASA KAMAY NG SC
(Rey Marfil With Bernard Taguinod)
Malaki ang tsansang mabago pa ang hatol na habambuhay na pagkakabilanggo na ibinaba ng Sandiganbayan Special Division kay dating Pangulong Joseph Estrada.
Ito ang naging prediksyon ni opposition Sen. Panfilo "Ping" Lacson na hindi itinago ang kawalang tiwala sa liderato ng Sandiganbayan Special Division matapos himukin si Estrada na lumapit sa Korte Suprema.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/sep1407/main.htm
8. Pilipino Star Ngayon
Peace’ sa pro-Erap
Nina Joy Cantos At Doris Franche
Friday, September 14, 2007
Sinabi kahapon ni Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Hermogenes Esperon na tatlong araw pang itataas ang red alert sa Metro Manila dahil sa posibleng sumiklab ang tensiyon mula sa mga pro-Erap groups matapos ang ibinabang guilty verdict kay dating Pangulong Joseph Estrada dahil sa kasong plunder o pandarambong.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=20070913150
9. Journal
| NO TO PARDON! |
| By: Alvin Murcia |
| AMID growing clamor for a presidential pardon for former President Joseph Estrada, he is firm against accepting clemency from the government of President Macapagal-Arroyo even if he has to serve out the life sentence imposed by the Sandiganbayan. |
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-09-14&sec=1&aid=31416
10. Business World
Investors need not worry — BSP chief
THE BANGKO SENTRAL NG PILIPINAS (BSP), anticipating a global credit crunch and persistent risk aversion, assured investors it would take the necessary measures to keep the Philippines sheltered from any financial shock arising from the United States’ continued credit woes.
http://www.bworldonline.com/BW091407/content.php?id=001
11. Business Mirror
| Government will honor ‘clean’ contracts |
| |
| By Mia Gonzalez |
| Reporter |
| AMID calls to junk the government’s deal with Chinese state company ZTE Corp., President Arroyo said that her administration will honor contracts and agreements that satisfy government requirements even if they are under “media attacks.” |
II. POLITICAL
Joma freed from Dutch custody; Palace ‘surprised’
By Michaela P. del Callar
A Dutch court yesterday ordered the immediate release of Philippine communist leader Jose Maria Sison, citing insufficient evidence linking him to the murder of his two colleagues.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20070914hed2.html
Joma freed
AMSTERDAM - A Dutch court yesterday ordered the immediate release of Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founder Jose Maria Sison, saying there was insufficient evidence to hold him on murder charges.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20070913186
Communist leader Sison walks free
By Veronica Uy
INQUIRER.net
Last updated 06:24am (Mla time) 09/14/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- Communist leader Jose Maria Sison has been freed from prison, just hours after a Dutch court ordered his release after it failed to find “sufficient indications” he was involved in the murders of former political colleagues in the Philippines.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=88506
Joma freed for insufficiency of evidence
A DUTCH court yesterday ordered the release of Jose Maria Sison, founder of the Communist Party of the Philippines, saying there was insufficient evidence to prove his involvement in the murder of two former allies.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/sept14/news4.htm
Arroyo forms superbody to fight graft
By Michael Lim Ubac
Inquirer
Last updated 04:42am (Mla time) 09/14/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- To deal with corruption in government, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has created a body that will monitor procurement for public projects and report irregularities to agency heads concerned.
Ms Arroyo called it the Procurement Transparency Group (PTG), which will include representatives from civil society.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=88500
| Arroyo moves for improved |
| procurement transparency |
| By Mia Gonzalez |
| Reporter |
| |
| CITING good governance and transparency in the government’s huge public investments, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo said on Wednesday night that she will create a Procurement Transparency Group (PTG) under the Government Procurement Policy Board, and a Pro-Performance Infrastructure Monitoring Group. |
http://businessmirror.com.ph/0914&152007/nation01.html
Senate to challenge Palace’s ‘gag orders’ before SC anew
Senators are ready to go to the Supreme Court (SC) and engage Malacañang in another round of “showdown” on the constitutionality of the executive’s so-called “gag orders” that are being invoked anew by Cabinet and other ranking government officials subjected to inquiries by lawmakers.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20070914hed6.html
| Around The Nation |
|
|
| JPEPA hearings on today The Senate Committee on Foreign Relations starts today at the Senate in Pasay City public hearings on the controversial Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (JPEPA). The committee will discuss trade and investments on opening day. Other provisions of the treaty will be discussed in the next hearings scheduled on Thursdays. A total of five JPEPA hearings will be held. |
http://www.mb.com.ph/MTNN20070914102943.html
Miriam supalpal sa Garci probe
(Rey Marfil)
Mismong si Senate minority floor leader Aquilino "Nene" Pimentel Jr., ang sumupalpal sa pagtatangka ni administration Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago na harangin ang isinasagawang imbestigasyon ng Mataas na Kapulungan ng Kongreso sa Hello Garci scandal partikular ang pagmamaliit nito sa kredibilidad ni dating Intelligence Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (ISAFP) agent T/Sgt. Vidal Doble.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/sep1407/main.htm
SEPTEMBER 15, 2007
I.BANNER STORIES
1. Philippine Daily Inquirer
Speaker’s son bares threats
‘Fairy tales,’ says DOTC’s Mendoza
By Christian V. Esguerra, Juliet Labog-Javellana
Inquirer
Last updated 02:02am (Mla time) 09/15/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- Businessman Jose de Venecia III said he had received threats from powerful persons for opposing the $329-million National Broadband Network (NBN) deal clinched by China’s ZTE Corp. and exposing the alleged corruption surrounding the project.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=88718
2. The Philippine Star
Mendoza mum on ZTE deal
By Jess Diaz And Paolo Romero
Saturday, September 15, 2007
Transportation Secretary Leandro Mendoza remains tightlipped on the controversial $330-million national broadband network deal that he signed in the presence of President Arroyo in Boao, China in April.
On Thursday night, during the House appropriations committee hearing on his agency’s proposed P22.5-billion budget for next year, Mendoza refused to answer questions about the project, citing legal restrictions.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20070914183
3. Manila Times
| Battle for Boracay mansion |
| By Jefferson Antiporda and Jomar Canlas Reporters A legal tug-of-war is shaping up between the Sandiganbayan and the Quezon City government over the “Boracay mansion,” the prime property the Court has ordered seized as part of former President Joseph Estrada’s assets. |
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/sept/15/yehey/top_stories/20070915top1.html
4. Malaya
Scrap ZTE deal, jail grafters, GMA urged
UNO: Why stonewall if there’s nothing to hide?
BY DENNIS GADIL
SENATE President Manuel Villar yesterday warned President Arroyo against "honoring" the National Broadband Network (NBN) contract with Chinese firm ZTE Corp., saying it is tantamount to exonerating government officials and private individuals who packaged the overpriced project.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/sept15/news1.htm
5. Manila Bulletin
| 7 Judicial Excellence awardees named |
|
|
| Judiciary personnel cited for exemplary performance 5 judges, 2 clerks of court to be awarded on Sept. 19 |
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20070915103021.html
6. The Daily Tribune
Military officers, men bristle at ‘political verdict’ vs Erap, AFP admits destab ‘rumors’
By Gina Peralta-Elorde
09/15/2007
Intelligence information on alleged “movements” in the military apparently spawned by the recent conviction of ousted President Joseph Estrada on plunder charges has prompted the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to maintain its “red-alert” status throughout the country.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20070915hed1.html
7. Abante
MAGIC SA BROADBAND DEAL TIGILAN NA!
Panahon na para tapusin ang pagmamadyik at patuloy na pagtatakip sa maanomalyang $329 milyong (P16 bilyong) National Broadband Network (NBN) deal sa kagustuhan lamang ng gobyernong Arroyo na mailusot pa rin ito.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/sep1507/main.htm
8. Abante-Tonite
ERAP AAPELA PAGBABA NI GLORIA
(Rey Marfil With Lily Reyes)
Kasabay ang pagpupulong ng mga abogado ngayong araw, inilutang ng kampo ni dating Pangulong Joseph "Erap" Estrada ang senaryong posibleng hintayin na lamang ang pagkakaroon ng bagong Presidente sa 2010 bago iakyat ang apela sa Korte Suprema.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/sep1507/main.htm
9. Pilipino Star Ngayon
Idemanda mo si Gloria’
Ni Malou Escudero
Saturday, September 15, 2007
Sampal umano kina Pangulong Arroyo at National Security Adviser Norberto Gonzales ang naging kautusan ng Dutch court na palayain si Jose Maria Sison, CPP-NPA founder, dahil sa kakula ngan ng ebidensiya na magdidiin sa kanya sa kaso.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2007091488
10. Journal
| ‘HARASSED’ |
| Police slammed for breaking up pro-Erap rally |
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-09-15&sec=1&aid=31557
11. Business World
Standard and Poor’s maintains stable outlook for RP
In a vote of confidence on the Philippine economy’s resilience given a possible global credit crunch, Standard & Poor’s yesterday maintained its stable outlook on the country’s sovereign debt ratings.
http://www.bworldonline.com/BW091507/content.php?id=001
II. POLITICAL
Senate summons Palace exec to ‘Garci’ probe
By Christina Mendez
Saturday, September 15, 2007
A Malacañang official was invited to appear before the Senate on Monday to shed light on allegations that she was instrumental in taking retired military intelligence agent Vidal Doble Jr. from a Catholic seminary in Makati to Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City.
Undersecretary Remedios “Medy” Poblador, presidential-legislative liaison officer, can clarify her role in transporting Doble from the San Carlos Seminary to the Armed Forces of the Philippines headquarters in 2005 at the height of the “Hello, Garci” controversy, according to Sen. Rodolfo Biazon, who chairs the committee on national defense and security.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20070914184
Officials fail to explain JPEPA’s advantage to RP
By Aurea Calica
Saturday, September 15, 2007
Deliberations on the Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (JPEPA) were off to a bad start yesterday as government officials failed to explain how Manila would gain P222 billion in foreign direct investments (FDI) and other benefits that are supposed to come in from 2007 to 2010 once the treaty is ratified.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20070914188
Senators slam ‘fuzzy’ gov’t presentation of JPEPA, Agreement to be rejected if voting held, they say
By Veronica Uy
INQUIRER.net
Last updated 03:21pm (Mla time) 09/14/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- The Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (JPEPA) will be rejected if voting were held this Friday, according to the senators who were at the first public hearing on the treaty by the legislative body.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/topstories/topstories/view_article.php?article_id=88592
SC asks gov’t, militants to prove JPEPA disclosed to public
By Tetch Torres
INQUIRER.net
Last updated 02:52pm (Mla time) 09/14/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- The Supreme Court has ordered the government as well as several progressive organizations to show proof that the contents of the trade agreement between Japan and the Philippines have been disclosed to the public.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=88587
Gov’t fails to impress Senate on Jpepa push
If the controversial Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (Jpepa) was put to a vote in the Senate for ratification yesterday, it would have been rejected outright by the members of the chamber simply because of the government panel’s failure to make a convincing presentation of the treaty’s purported benefits to the country.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20070915hed4.html
| JPEPA’s jargon way too perplexing for senators |
| By Efren L. Danao Senior Reporter It seems that with JPEPA, government technocrats are from Mars, and senators are from Venus. One side is clueless about what the other side is talking about. Officials from various departments and business leaders presented on the merits of the Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement—more commonly known for its acronym, JPEPA—to the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations on Friday. Apparently, the presenters’ technical lingo was unconvincing, even unclear to senators. |
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/sept/15/yehey/top_stories/20070915top3.html
GMA aide faces Senate grilling on ‘Garci’ part
The alleged presidential aide who supposedly made all the necessary “arrangements” in rescuing former T/Sgt. Vidal Doble Jr., some two years ago, from the hands then of opposition personalities out to expose in full the purported rigging of votes in the 2004 presidential elections had been called to face the Senate on Monday.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/nation/20070915nat2.html
| Agri executive says JPEPA all about trade |
|
Undersecretary Segfredo Serrano of the Department of Agriculture made the clarification on Friday after the Pambansang Lakas ng Kilusang Mamamalakaya ng Pilipinas (Pamamalakaya) charged anew that the Philippines, under the treaty, will allow Japanese vessels to come and exploit its rich marine resources. |
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/sept/15/yehey/top_stories/20070915top7.html
| Senators urged: Consider 'common interest' in JPEPA |
|
|
http://www.mb.com.ph/MTNN20070915103030.html
| Loren assails JPEPA ‘quota system’ |
| By: Paul M. Gutierrez |
| Senator Loren Legarda expressed dissatisfaction over the ‘quota system’ in the deployment of Filipino medical practitioners to Japan under controversial Japan-Philippine Economic Partnership Agreement or Jpepa. |
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-09-15&sec=4&aid=0
| JPEPA won’t get Senate vote if… |
| By: Bernadette E. Tamayo |
| THE controversial Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement will not get the approval of the Senate if voting were held during yesterdays’ first public hearing on the treaty. |
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-09-15&sec=4&aid=31550
Mar: Administration should try harder to convince Senate to ratify JPEPA
BY JP LOPEZ
THE Senate will reject the Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement if it is put to a vote today.
Sen. Mar Roxas, trade committee chair, yesterday said government officials failed to convince senators on the supposed benefits the country would gain from JPEPA.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/sept15/news6.htm
SEPTEMBER 17, 2007
I.BANNER STORIES
1. Philippine Daily Inquirer
Estrada open to amnesty, says ally , But he wants to read 'fine print' of proposal
By Christian V. Esguerra, Kristine L. Alave
Inquirer
Last updated 11:27pm (Mla time) 09/16/2007
CONVICTED former president Joseph Estrada is open to the idea of being granted amnesty, but he wants to see the "fine print" of any such proposal first and wants it clear that acceptance does not signify guilt, a close ally said Sunday.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=88938
2. The Philippine Star
GMA, JDV on collision course over ZTE deal
By Paolo Romero
Monday, September 17, 2007
President Arroyo and Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr. could be headed for a collision course over the controversial $330-million broadband contract with China’s ZTE Corp. involving the Speaker’s son, several Cabinet officials and the “mystery man” closely identified with Malacañang.
The identity of the mystery man is expected to be revealed tomorrow by Jose de Venecia III, co-founder of the Amsterdam Holdings Inc. (AHI) that lost to ZTE in the National Broadband Network (NBN) project.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20070916129
3. Manila Times
| Palace for pardoning Estrada |
| By Angelo S. Samonte and Francis Earl A. Cueto, Reporters The government and the opposition finally agree on something, that former President Joseph Estrada should be set free. They just disagree on how—pardon or amnesty. Last week the Sandiganbayan convicted Estrada of plunder and sentenced him to life in prison. He is detained in his rest house in Tanay, Rizal. |
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/sept/17/yehey/top_stories/20070917top1.html
4. Malaya
Forget appeal, ask for pardon: Apostol
Says 70-year-old Erap eligible for clemency
BY REGINA BENGCO
CHIEF presidential legal counsel Sergio Apostol has unsolicited advice to former President Joseph Estrada: Let the guilty verdict become final and executory then apply for presidential pardon.
Apostol yesterday said Estrada is eligible for pardon because he is already 70 years old.
He said applying for pardon takes a shorter time than appealing the decision of the anti-graft court, and if denied, moving on to the Supreme Court
http://www.malaya.com.ph/sept17/news1.htm
5. Manila Bulletin
No clash since start of Ramadan
Troops in Mindanao are all in high spirits as no violent encounters in Jolo and Basilan have occurred since the start of Ramadan, the Islamic fasting season, Lt. Gen. Alexander Yano, commanding general of the Philippine Army (PA) of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), reported yesterday.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20070917103175.html
6. The Daily Tribune
Broadband builder ZTE Corp. a ‘hacker’
By Angie M. Rosales
09/17/2007
ZTE Corp., the controversial Chinese firm that bagged the Philippine government’s broadband project, is allegedly involved in “hacking” operations on German government computers and is supposedly now subject of an investigation.
Speculations are rife, based on reports that have been coming out in Germany since last week, that ZTE allegedly had a hand in hacking into the German government’s database, Sen. Manuel “Mar” Roxas II revealed yesterday.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20070917hed1.html
7. Abante
'SURPRISE WITNESSES' SA HELLO GARCI LULUTANG
May mga bagong ‘surprise witnesses’ ang lulutang upang humarap sa muling binuksang imbestigasyon sa ‘Hello Garci’ scandal na kinasasangkutan nina Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo at dating Commision on Election (Comelec) Commissioner Virgilio Garcillano noong 2004 Presidential Elections.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/sep1707/main.htm
8. Abante-Tonite
ERAP PINIPILIT SA PARDON
Nina Rey Marfil at Grace Velasco
Pinayuhan kahapon ng Malacañang si dating Pangulong Joseph Estrada na huwag nang i-apela ang desisyon ng Sandiganbayan sa kasong plunder upang umandar na ang proseso sa pagsusulong ng pardon para rito.
Ayon kay Presidential Legal Counsel Sergio Apostol, matatagalan pa na maging pinal ang pasya sa kaso ni Estrada kung patuloy niya itong i-aapela at mangangahulugan ito na hindi pa siya maaring pagkalooban ng absolute pardon.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/sep1707/main.htm
9. Pilipino Star Ngayon
Barangay, SK polls ibabasura
Ni Doris Franche
Monday, September 17, 2007
Pinababasura ni Comelec Chairman Benjamin Abalos ang nalalapit na Barangay at Sangguniang Kabataan elections sa Oktubre 29 dahil nagiging dahilan lamang umano ito ng alitan sa mga barangay.
Naniniwala si Abalos na makabubuti pa kung itatalaga na lamang ang magiging lider dahil kadalasan ay nagiging personal ang botohan ng mga Brgy. Chairman at SK leader. Ito na rin ang nagiging mitsa ng pag-aaway-away ng mga residente at pagkampi-kampi.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2007091696
10. Journal
| ANOTHER WHITE ELEPHANT |
| By: Bernadette E. Tamayo |
| ZTE broadband project could end up like Bataan nuclear plant |
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-09-17&sec=1&aid=31752
11. Business World
Hefti says ‘bleeding’ must end
AWARE THAT HER PREDECESSOR LOST HIS JOB for failing to raise revenues, newly confirmed tax chief Lilian B. Hefti says her performance this year should be gauged against the tax bureau’s second-half targets, not the full 2007 goal.
http://www.bworldonline.com/BW091707/content.php?id=001
12. Business Mirror
| Senate rejection of Jpepa looms |
| |
| By Butch Fernandez |
| Reporter |
| SENATORS have indicated they would reject the Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (Jpepa) if a vote to ratify the accord were taken today. They pinned the blame on the government panel that failed to make a convincing presentation of the purported advantages the Philippines would get out of ratifying the accord during the initial public hearing by the joint Committees on Foreign Relations and on Trade and Commerce. |
http://businessmirror.com.ph/09172007/headlines01.html
II. POLITICAL
Doble set to face Miriam today
Monday, September 17, 2007
Retired military intelligence agent Vidal Doble Jr. is ready to face Sen. Miriam Santiago at the Senate hearing on the “Hello Garci” case today, according to Sen. Panfilo Lacson.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20070916141
Gov’t exec to Erap: Drop plans to appeal, gain pardon
By Sherwin C. Olaes
A Malacañang official yester-day said plunder-convicted Presi-dent Joseph Estrada should drop his plans of appealing the Sandi-ganbayan’s decision on his case — if he wants to be eligible for presidential pardon that the government is purportedly eyeing to grant him.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20070917hed2.html
Snub ‘Garci’ probe anew, face Senate contempt, Arroyo men warned
Government officials who have been summoned by the Senate to testify on the allegations on their participation in the “Hello Garci” tapes scandal face the risk of being cited for contempt if they will remain defiant of the Senate’s order for their appearance.
Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel Jr. yesterday warned officials from the executive, including some military officers on the consequences of their action, should they refuse to honor the subpoena issued them, as they resume their inquiry into the wiretapped tapes issue today.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20070917hed6.html
Yaman ni Villar, P921-M
Monday, September 17, 2007
Kahit pagsama-samahin pa ang kayamanan ng mga bagong pasok na senador ng 14th Congress, hindi pa rin ng mga ito kayang higitan o pantayan man lamang ang kasalukuyang net worth ni Senate President Manuel Villar, ang richest senator ngayon, na ang yaman ay umaabot na sa P921.4 milyon.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2007091697
House lauds Senate ‘support’ of bill resetting barangay, SK polls
Cebu Rep. Eduardo Gullas has welcomed the Senate’s readiness to support the House bill seeking to put off next month’s barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections.
Gullas was referring to Senate President Manuel Villar Jr.’s statement that he intends to seek and build a Senate consensus with respect to the House of Representatives initiative to postpone the Oct. 29 polls to the second Monday of May 2009.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/nation/20070917nat1.html
Ricaforte at Dichaves lusot na sa plunder
Monday, September 17, 2007
Magsasagawa ng hiwalay na paglilitis ang Sandiganbayan para sa mga wanted na sina Jaime Dichaves at Yolanda Ricaforte sa oras na maaresto ang mga ito dahil sa pagkakasangkot sa kasong plunder ni dating Pangulong Joseph Estrada.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2007091698
Doble testimony needs corroboration: Biazon
BY DENNIS GADIL
SEN. Rodolfo Biazon, chief investigator in the inquiry into the "Hello Garci" wiretapping scandal, yesterday said more witnesses are needed to corroborate the statements made by former intelligence agent Vidal Doble before the Senate.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/sept17/news5.htm
Palasyo at Senado magkakasubukan
(Rey Marfil)
Kasabay ang pagsasalang ng mga kampon ni Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo sa Hello Garci probe, ngayong umaga malalaman kung muling susukatin ng Malacañang ang kapangyarihan ng Mataas na Kapulungan ng Kongreso, gamit ang Executive Order No. 464.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/sep1707/main.htm
Arroyo men seen to snub ‘Hello Garci’ quiz
MANILA, Philippines -- The Senate will resume its “Hello Garci” investigation on Monday, with former military intelligence agent Vidal Doble Jr. as the lone witness.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=88974
SEPTEMBER 18, 2007
I.BANNER STORIES
1. Philippine Daily Inquirer
Mike Arroyo is ‘mystery man’ in NBN deal--De Venecia son
Back off,’ First Gentleman quoted as saying
By Veronica Uy
INQUIRER.net
Last updated 05:03pm (Mla time) 09/18/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- (UPDATE 5) First Gentleman Jose Miguel Arroyo is the “mystery man” who told him to “back off” in talks on the National Broadband Network project, the son of Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr. revealed to the Senate Tuesday.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=89222
2. The Philippine Star
AFP, Palace officials snub ‘Garci’ hearing
By Christina Mendez
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Another showdown looms between Malacañang and the Senate after several Cabinet officials and military officers snubbed yesterday the public hearing being conducted by senators on the “Hello, Garci” wiretapping scandal.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20070917239
3. Manila Times
ADB sees strong 6.6% RP growth
By Darwin G. Amojelar Reporter
The Asian Development Bank predicts the Philippine economy to grow by 6.6 percent this year, fueled by low consumer prices and its unexpectedly strong performance in the first six months.
In its Asian Development Outlook 2007 Update released Monday, the ADB said 6.6-percent surge in growth is within the government’s target of 6.1 percent to 6.7 percent.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/sept/18/yehey/top_stories/20070918top1.html
4. Malaya
Palace: Let Erap initiate amnesty plea
Roxas files resolution seeking pardon
PRESIDENT Arroyo may be amenable to include former President Joseph Estrada in the proposed amnesty proclamation if he makes the "necessary" overtures, chief presidential counsel Sergio Apostol said yesterday
http://www.malaya.com.ph/sept18/news1.htm
5. Manila Bulletin
House cancels Oct. 29 polls
Congressmen vote 149-50 for postponement It’s 3rd barangay, SK poll postponement in seven years
By BEN R. ROSARIO
For the third time in seven years, the House of Representatives moved to cancel the barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections scheduled for October 29, 2007 but the vote was far from unanimous.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20070918103265.html
6. The Daily Tribune
‘Hello Garci’ II probe snubbed, senators seethe
09/18/2007
Crossing party lines, both adminis-tration and opposition senators yes-terday blamed Malacañang’s continued imposition of its gag orders on exe-cutive and military officials barring them from appearing before con-gressional probers for the failure of a reinvestigation of an election scandal linking President Arroyo herself and a former poll official.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20070918hed1.html
7. Abante
SENADO KAY ABALOS: HUMARAP KA!
Hinamon kahapon ni Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano si Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman Benjamin Abalos na humarap sa imbestigasyon ng Senate Blue Ribbon Committee at sagutin ang mga akusasyon laban sa kanya kaugnay ng US$ 329 milyong national broadband network (NBN) contract ng pamahalaan sa ZTE Corp. ng China.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/sep1807/main.htm
8. Abante-Tonite
AMNESTIYA KAY ERAP MAS OKEY!
(Rey Marfil/Bernard Taguinod)
Mas pinaboran ni Sen. Panfilo "Ping" Lacson ang pagbibigay ng amnestiya kay dating Pangulong Joseph Estrada kumpara sa ipinipilit ng mga alipores ni Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo na pagbibigay ng pardon.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/sep1807/main.htm
9. Pilipino Star Ngayon
Doble pumiyok
Ni Malou Escudero
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Napaamin kahapon ni Senador Juan Ponce Enrile si dating Intelligence Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines agent T/Sgt. Vidal Doble na nagplano ang grupo ni dating National Bureau of Investigation Deputy Director Samuel Ong na magtayo ng revolutionary government laban kay Pangulong Gloria Arroyo.
Sa pagpapatuloy ng pagdinig kahapon ng Senado sa “Hello, Garci” scandal, tinanong ni Enrile si Doble kung napag-usapan nila ni Ong ang pagtatatag ng revolutionary government.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=20070917182
10. Journal
AMNESTY OR PARDON?
By: Bernadette E. Tamayo
Pardon Erap -- Roxas
CITING humanitarian reasons, Sen. Mar Roxas has appealed to President Macapagal-Arroyo to grant pardon to former President Joseph Estrada since such move is embodied in her Medium Term Philippine Development Plan.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-09-18&sec=1&aid=31898
11. Business World
Stronger RP growth expected
THE PHILIPPINES IS EXPECTED TO OUTPACE Southeast Asian growth this year given stronger-than-expected first-half results, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) yesterday said.
http://www.bworldonline.com/BW091807/content.php?id=001
12. Business Mirror
DOJ eyeing dissolution of government telco
By Joel San Juan
Reporter
THE Department of Justice is now eying the dissolution of the Philippine Communications Satellite Corporation Holdings Corp. (PHC) in order to end the ongoing squabble among its directors and officers as well as to revert its assets to its mother corporation and consolidate government control over the telecom firm.
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/09182007/headlines01.html
II. POLITICAL
Senate to seek pardon for Erap; Palace feels public pulse
By Aurea Calica
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Senators are calling on government to pardon former President Joseph Estrada, who was sentenced to life imprisonment, so the country can move forward and end its divisiveness.
Sen. Manuel Roxas II, who served as trade secretary of Estrada, filed Resolution 135 calling on President Arroyo to pardon Estrada at the appropriate time.
Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago, in a privilege speech, exhorted Estrada to accept pardon for the sake of national reconciliation.
Unlike Senate President Manuel Villar Jr., who discussed with Estrada the possibility of amnesty, Santiago said Estrada might not qualify for amnesty because it was usually granted to political offenders.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20070917243
Senators slam Palace ‘excuse letter’ in wiretap probe
By Veronica Uy
INQUIRER.net
Last updated 01:45pm (Mla time) 09/17/2007
(UPDATE) MANILA, Philippines -- Administration senators, led by Miriam Defensor-Santiago, criticized the “excuse letter” Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita sent to the Senate for Cabinet secretaries who could not attend Monday’s investigation of the wiretapping scandal.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/topstories/topstories/view_article.php?article_id=89014
Senators dissect Doble character in ‘Garci’ probe
By Veronica Uy
INQUIRER.net
Last updated 03:58pm (Mla time) 09/17/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- Was he a wiretapper or not? Was he a “liar,” “womanizer,” and even a “wife-beater?”
These were how administration and opposition senators saw former intelligence agent Vidal Doble during his testimony Monday at the Senate investigating the wiretapping scandal.
Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago alleged that Doble was a “liar,” “womanizer,” and “wife-beater.”
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=89078
The Firm’: After Erap conviction, GMA could be next
By Delon Porcalla and Jose Rodel Clapano
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
A law firm favored by who’s who in politics and business and which helped build up the plunder case against former President Joseph Estrada said the latter’s conviction should serve as warning that skilled and determined lawyers could pin down corrupt leaders, including its most influential client President Arroyo.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20070917247
House approves postponement of barangay, SK polls
By Jess Diaz
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
The House of Representatives, voting 149-50, approved on third and final reading last night a bill postponing next month’s combined barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections to the second Monday of May 2009.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20070917257
Housevotes to defer Oct. polls
By Maricel V. Cruz, Reporter
The House of Representatives approved on third and final reading Monday a bill resetting the October 29 barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections to May 2009.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/sept/18/yehey/top_stories/20070918top3.html
Senate, Palace edge toward crisis as execs snub hearing Arroyo men face contempt
By Dona Pazzibugan, Michael Lim Ubac, Inquirer
Last updated 02:26am (Mla time) 09/18/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- The Senate on Monday moved closer to a showdown with Malacañang after government and military officials once more snubbed the “Hello Garci” hearing by invoking an executive order that had been struck down by the Supreme Court.
Senators from the administration and opposition camps said the Senate should now use its powers of contempt to order the arrest of these officials and to compel them to face the hearings.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=89170
Palace prefers pardon for Estrada over amnesty
By Michael Lim Ubac, Christian V. Esguerra, Inquirer
Last updated 02:00am (Mla time) 09/18/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- Joseph Estrada may be open to being granted amnesty, as announced on Sunday by one of his allies, but President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s key advisers are not biting.
According to Sergio Apostol, Ms Arroyo’s chief legal adviser, Estrada should drop the amnesty idea as well as the plan to file a motion for reconsideration in the Sandiganbayan so the government could “set in motion” the process for a presidential pardon.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=89165
Kabayan at Misis sinubpoena na!
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Pinadadalo ng Quezon City Prosecutor’s Office si Vice-President Noli de Castro at ang misis niyang si Arlene Sinsuat de Castro sa unang “preliminary investigation” sa kasong bigamya na isinampa ng dalawang anak ng huli ngayong darating na Miyerkules.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=20070917185
JV pooh-poohs Chavit threat to drag him in plunder case
09/18/2007
Not even a threat from the government’s so-called star witness in the plunder case against ousted President Joseph Estrada will stop the Estrada camp from seeking a reversal of the guilty verdict recently handed down by the anti-graft court Sandiganbayan against the deposed leader or appealing the decision before the Supreme Court (SC).
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20070918hed2.html
PCGG starts lifestyle check on sequestered firms’ heads
09/18/2007
The Presidential Commission on Good Government (PCGG) yesterday said it has asked for the records and documents of both past and present heads of sequestered companies to determine if they have received or are receiving just enough, or excessive compensation in violation of laws.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/nation/20070918nat1.html
PCGG starts lifestyle check of directors in sequestered firms
By Francis Earl A. Cueto Reporter
THE Presidential Commission on Good Government (PCGG) has sought records and documents from government-sequestered companies to determine if any of their nominees, including former officials of the agency themselves received compensation in excess of what they were supposed to be given.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/sept/18/yehey/top_stories/20070918top7.html
Senators mulling contempt for officials who ignore subpoena
Senators are now studying the possibility of citing for contempt all officials who were invited or issued subpoenas but declined to appear before the Senate’s investigation of the "Hello, Garci" wiretapping controversy.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20070918103271.html
Miriam, Dick: Cite no-shows for contempt
TWO administration senators yesterday led colleagues in asking the joint panel investigating the "Hello Garci" wiretapping scandal to cite subordinates of President Arroyo for contempt if they continue to refuse to attend the inquiry.
Senators Miriam Defensor Santiago and Richard Gordon said the failure of subpoenaed officials to appear could spark another "constitutional showdown."
http://www.malaya.com.ph/sept18/news2.htm
The heavy baggage on JPEPA’s back
Editorial
‘The short answer is that the word of this adminis-tration can no longer be trusted.’
The administration simply has to try harder to convince the Senate to ratify the Ja-pan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (JPEPA). For starters, they can call it the Philippine-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/sept18/edit.htm
SEPTEMBER 19, 2007
I.BANNER STORIES
1. Philippine Daily Inquirer
Senate to invite Mike Arroyo, subpoena 3 Cabinet members
Abalos, aide invited to Thursday’s probe
By Veronica Uy
INQUIRER.net
Last updated 06:32pm (Mla time) 09/18/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- The Senate blue-ribbon committee will invite First Gentleman Jose Miguel Arroyo to its inquiry into the $329-million national broadband network project and that he would be subpoenaed if he would not attend, Senator Alan Peter Cayetano said Tuesday.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=89305
2. The Philippine Star
‘FG told me to back off’
By Aurea Calica
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Businessman Jose de Venecia III said yesterday First Gentleman Jose Miguel Arroyo shoved a finger in his face and ordered him to “back off” from bidding for the multimillion-dollar national broadband network project.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20070918174
3. Manila Times
‘It was Mike Arroyo’
JdV’s son unmasks the broadband ‘mystery man’ at Senate investigation
By Efren L. Danao Senior Reporter
Businessman Jose “Joey” de Venecia 3rd said the “mystery man” who tried to bully him into backing off the controversial broadband deal is none other than the President’s husband, Jose Miguel “Mike” Arroyo.
De Venecia testified at a Senate blue-ribbon committee hearing on Tuesday. He is the cofounder and major shareholder of Amsterdam Holdings Inc. (AHI), which vied but failed to land the $330-million national broadband network project that was given to ZTE Corp. of China.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/sept/19/yehey/top_stories/20070919top1.html
4. Malaya
JDV son says Mike
is ZTE ‘mystery man’
‘He pointed a finger at me, yelled “back off”’
BY DENNIS GADIL
Jose de Venecia III yesterday said Miguel "Mike" Arroyo tried to bully him into backing out from the controversial national broadband network project in favor of Zhong Xing Telecommunications Equipment Corp. (ZTE), the Chinese company allegedly sponsored by Elections chairman Benjamin Abalos Sr.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/sept19/news1.htm
5. Manila Bulletin
Senate opens NBN probe
Witness says FG told him to ‘back off’
Senate opens NBN probe with young De Venecia testifying
By HANNAH L. TORREGOZA
Businessman Jose "Joey" de Venecia III, a son of House Speaker Jose De Venecia, yesterday testified before the Senate that it was First Gentleman Atty. Jose Miguel Arroyo who told him to "back off" from the $ 329-million National Broadband Network (NBN) contract between the Philippine government and China’s ZTE Corp.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20070919103336.html
6. The Daily Tribune
Mike A. ‘mystery man’ in $329-M broadband deal
Resign or be impeached, opposition dares Gloria
09/19/2007
United Opposition (UNO) and Makati City Mayor Jejomar Binay yesterday asked President Arroyo to resign over the latest accusation that his husband, First Gentleman Jose Miguel “Mike” Arroyo, was the “mystery man” calling the shots in a multimillion-dollar broadband deal between the government and China’s ZTE Corp.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20070919hed1.html
7. Abante
SININDAK AKO NI MIKE ARROYO!
binunyag kahapon ni Jose ‘Joey’ De Venecia III, anak ni House Speaker Jose De Venecia Jr., na ang tinutukoy niyang ‘mystery man’ sa kontrobersyal na National Broadband Network (NBN) deal ay walang iba kundi si First Gentleman Jose Miguel ‘Mike’ Arroyo.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/sep1907/main.htm
8. Abante-Tonite
FG SAPILITANG BIBITBITIN SA SENADO
(Rey Marfil)
Kung hindi makukuha sa pakiusapan gamit ang imbitasyong ipapadala ng Mataas na Kapulungan ng Kongreso, walang mapagpipilian ang mga senador kundi ipa-subpoena si First Gentleman Mike Arroyo at maaaring i-contempt kapag patuloy nitong tinanggihan ang pagharap sa imbestigasyon ng broadband scam sa Senado.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/sep1907/main.htm
9. Pilipino Star Ngayon
FG sabit sa ZTE deal
Ni Malou Escudero
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Inabsuwelto si Presidente Gloria Arroyo pero sabit si First Gentleman Mike Arroyo sa multi-milyong pisong National Broadband Network (NBN) deal ng DOTC at ZTE Corp. ng China.
Ito ang laman ng pahayag ng negosyanteng si Jose “Joey” de Venecia III nang gisahin ng Senate Blue Ribbon Committee kaugnay ng usapin na nagdadawit din kay Comelec Chairman Benjamin Abalos.
Sa kanyang sinumpaang pahayag, sinabi ni de Venecia III na si First Gentleman ang tinutukoy na “mystery man” na ilang araw na niyang binabanggit na nakialam sa broadband project.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=20070918150
10. Journal
IT'S BIG MIKE
By: Bernadette E. Tamayo
“BACK off.”
With these angry words, First Gentleman Jose Miguel “Mike” Arroyo allegedly tried to intimidate Jose “Joey” de Venecia III to back out from participating in the allegedly anomalous national broadband network project of the government.
It turned out that Mr. Arroyo was the “mystery man” who De Venecia III, co-founder of Amsterdam Holdings Inc., earlier said allegedly coerced him into withdrawing his $24- million bid for the NBN project of the Department of Transportation and Communications.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-09-19&sec=1&aid=32012
11. Business World
Fitch says gains not sustainable
SINGAPORE/MANILA — On the day the government announced that it had met a budget surplus goal, Fitch Ratings said an improvement in the Philippines’ fiscal position, while impressive, was not sustainable.
http://www.bworldonline.com/BW091907/content.php?id=001
12. Business Mirror
Joey tags Mike
PRESIDENT’S HUSBAND BULLIED ME–DE VENECIA III
By Estrella Torres
Reporter
THE President’s husband, Mike Arroyo, was tagged on Tuesday as the “mystery man” involved in the allegedly anomalous $330-million contract for the government’s national broadband network (NBN) project with China’s ZTE Corp.
During the Senate blue-ribbon committee hearing on Tuesday, Amsterdam Holdings Inc. (AHI) cofounder Jose de Venecia III said that at one point, Arroyo pointed “an accusing finger” at him and told him to “back off” from the controversial broadband deal.
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/09192007/headlines01.html
II. POLITICAL
Arroyo to Congress: ‘Act fast on amnesty proclamation’
By Lira Dalangin-Fernandez
INQUIRER.net
Last updated 03:10pm (Mla time) 09/18/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on Tuesday called on Congress to act fast on the government's amnesty proclamation for communist rebels even as she again ordered the Armed Forces to intensify the campaign against enemies of the state.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=89280
PNP downgrades nationwide alert status
By Thea Alberto
INQUIRER.net
Last updated 07:09pm (Mla time) 09/18/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- (UPDATE) The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Tuesday downgraded its full alert status in the National Capital Region and for the elite Special Action Force (SAF), and the heightened alert status in the rest of the country.
http://globalnation.inquirer.net/news/news/view_article.php?article_id=89301
ANALYSIS
Verdict on plunder opens new controversy
By Amando Doronila
Inquirer
Last updated 02:21am (Mla time) 09/19/2007
Expectations that the anti-graft court Sandiganbayan’s decision convicting former President Joseph Estrada of plunder had put an end by judicial fiat to his case as the most disruptive element in political stability crashed on the rocks within days of the verdict.
http://opinion.inquirer.net/inquireropinion/columns/view_article.php?article_id=89377
AS I SEE IT
How much did richest legislators pay in taxes?
By Neal Cruz
Inquirer
Last updated 02:06am (Mla time) 09/19/2007
So, Senate President Manuel Villar is the richest senator (net worth: P921.4 million) and his wife, Rep. Cynthia Villar, is the richest member of the House of Representatives. But how much did they pay in personal (not corporate) income taxes? Are these income taxes proportionate to their immense wealth? It is only fair to the other taxpayers that they be informed how much their super-rich leaders pay in taxes.
http://opinion.inquirer.net/inquireropinion/columns/view_article.php?article_id=89379
Berroya clings to LTO post
By Perseus Echeminada
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Land Transportation Office chief Reynaldo Berroya is not likely to relinquish his post to his newly appointed successor, former Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Arturo Lomibao, until he receives official orders from President Arroyo, a source from the LTO said yesterday.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Metro&p=49&type=2&sec=26
BoC union president linked to smuggling
By William B. Depasupil, Reporter
THE president of the militant 5,000-strong Bureau of Customs Employees Association (BOCEA) was relieved from his post as principal examiner for alleged involvement in technical smuggling activities that resulted in millions of pesos in revenue losses to the customs bureau.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/sept/19/yehey/metro/20070919met4.html
GMA not about to replace Justice Secretary Gonzalez
President Arroyo is not about to replace Justice Secretary Raul M. Gonzalez in the Cabinet despite his recent health problems.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MTNN20070919103355.html
Gonzalez’s fate at DoJ to be known next month — Arroyo
09/19/2007
President Arroyo is keep-ing Justice Secretary Raul Gonzalez in his post until he recovers after a kidney trans-plant.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20070919hed5.html
GMA to decide on Gonzalez after a month; Manda goes back to LLDA
PRESIDENT Arroyo on Monday night said she is keeping Raul Gonzalez as justice secretary until he recovers from his kidney transplant.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/sept19/metro3.htm
Erap pinapipili: Pardon o amnesty
(Rey Marfil/Bernard Taguinod)
Kaysa pagtalunan kung ano ang nararapat para kay dating Pangulong Joseph "Erap" Estrada, pinayuhan ni administration Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago ang kanyang kumpare na mamili sa dalawang opsyon na inaalok ng Malacañang, partikular ang amnestiya at presidential pardon.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/sep1907/main.htm
JDV reresbakan sa expose ng anak
(Bernard Taguinod)
Matapos ang nakakatulig na expose ng kanyang anak sa broadband scandal kung saan isinabit si First Gentleman Mike Arroyo, usap-usapan na ngayon sa Mababang Kapulungan ng Kongreso ang napipintong "pagyugyog" sa liderato ni House Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/sep1907/main.htm
Barangay, SK polls ipatutuloy ng Senado
(Rey Marfil)
Kung nagkaisa ang Mababang Kapulungan ng Kongreso para kanselahin ang Sangguniang Kabataan at Baranggay Election, nagkaisa naman ang mga senador para kontrahin ang kapasyahang ito at ituloy ang naturang eleksyon sa darating na Oktubre 29.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/sep1907/main.htm
No permanent replacement for Gonzalez
By: Tess Bedico
PRESIDENT Macapagal-Arroyo is not about to appoint a permanent replacement for Justice Secretary Raul Gonzalez who has yet to fully recover after a kidney transplant.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-09-19&sec=4&aid=31999
Scrap ‘useless’ SK, says Nene
By: Bernadette E. Tamayo
SENATE Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel Jr. yesterday said he supports the abolition of the Sangguniang Kabataan, noting that it no longer serves its purpose as a training ground for youth leaders and as means for them to be involved in the community.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-09-19&sec=4&aid=32028
Scrap ‘useless’ SK, says Nene
By: Bernadette E. Tamayo
SENATE Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel Jr. yesterday said he supports the abolition of the Sangguniang Kabataan, noting that it no longer serves its purpose as a training ground for youth leaders and as means for them to be involved in the community.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-09-19&sec=4&aid=32028
Villar urges more benefits for barangay officials
WHILE seeking the consensus of his colleagues on the issue of pushing through with the barangay elections, Senate President Manny Villar yesterday said that he wants to improve the services of barangay officials by providing them with better benefits.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-09-19&sec=4&aid=32029
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