December 10-17, 2007

December 10, 2007 Mind Bullet Inc.
I.BANNER STORIES

1. Philippine Daily Inquirer
Emir spares Filipina's life
Grants Arroyo plea for death convict
By Christine Avendaño
MANILA, Philippines--PRESIDENT Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on Sunday saved Marilou Ranario from the gallows after the Chief Executive secured from the Kuwaiti ruler a commutation of the Filipino maid's death sentence to life imprisonment for killing her Arab employer, Malacañang announced.
http://globalnation.inquirer.net/news/news/view_article.php?article_id=105815

2. The Philippine Star
Kuwait spares Filipino maid from death
By Paolo Romero
Monday, December 10, 2007
Following a personal appeal from President Arroyo, Kuwaiti Emir Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah spared yesterday from execution a 34-year-old Filipino domestic helper convicted of stabbing to death her female Kuwaiti employer more than two years ago.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=2007120992

3. Manila Times
Emir spares life of OFW
Filipina’s death sentence commuted to life after appeal by GMA
By Angelo S. Samonte, Reporter
The Kuwaiti Emir commuted the death sentence of Filipino overseas worker Marilou Ranario to life imprisonment following President Gloria Arroyo’s personal appeal on Sunday.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/dec/10/yehey/top_stories/20071210top1.html
4. Malaya
‘Gov’t is prime rights violator’
Gloria unlikely to regain trust, says CBCP head
BY GERARD NAVAL
IT would be difficult, "if not impossible," for the Arroyo government to get the public’s trust and respect and restore its credibility because it is one of the prime violators of human rights, Archbishop Angel Lagdameo said yesterday.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/dec10/news1.htm

5. Manila Bulletin

6. The Daily Tribune
Pressure builds up anew on Binay
12/10/2007
Makati City Mayor and opposition stalwart Jejomar Binay is again feeling the heat from Malacañang.
Binay, yesterday, questioned the deployment of heavily armed troops around the Makati City Hall on the same day that the graft court Sandiganbayan issued warrants of arrest on former Makati City officials, including Binay’s wife, former Makati City Mayor Elenita.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071210hed1.html


7. Abante
15,000 NAGOYO SA LUNETA!
Ni Juliet de Loza at AFP
Naglalaro sa bilang na 10,000 hanggang 15,000 maralitang mamamayan ang nagoyo ng isang grupo matapos hingan ng tig-P10 bawat isa para sa isang identification card upang maka kuha ng Christmas gift sa isang umano’y Salvador de Corazon.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/dec1007/main.htm

8. Abante-Tonite
P4B ASENSO FUND SISIGURUHING 'DI MABUBULSA
Ni Rey Marfil
Bagama’t yumuko sa kagustuhan ng Malacañang, hindi pa nakakasiguro si Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo sa pagpabor ng oposisyon sa hinihinging extra fund, partikular ang P4 bilyong Kilos-Asenso fund na naunang tinanggap ng Mataas na Kapulungan ng Kongreso sa ilalim ng 2008 national budget.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/dec1007/main.htm
9. Pilipino Star Ngayon
Ranario ligtas na
Ni Rudy Andal
Monday, December 10, 2007
Pinagbigyan ng Emir ng Kuwait ang pakiusap ni Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo na bigyan ng commutation of sentence ang Pinay worker na si Marilou Ranario na naunang sinentensyahan ng parusang kamatayan ng isang Kuwaiti court dahil sa pagpatay sa kanyang lady employer.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2007120981

10. Journal
SAVED
By: Tess Bedico
Ranario snatched from hangman’s noose; death sentence commuted to life
FILIPINO overseas worker Marilou Ranario was snatched from certain death after Kuwaiti Emir Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah yesterday commuted her sentence to life imprisonment, granting the personal appeal of President Macapagal-Arroyo.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-12-10&sec=1&aid=41959


11. Business World
Gov’t calls for cheaper power
State funds to be used to implement Palace directive
ACKNOWLEDGING THAT THE COUNTRY has one of the highest power rates in the region, Malacañang yesterday said it had ordered the Energy and Finance departments to study the possibility of using the state’s gas royalties, National Power Corp. (Napocor) profits, and Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) fees to slash electricity charges.
http://www.bworld.com.ph/BW121007/content.php?id=001


12. Business Mirror
Firm whistle-blower rules pressed
By Cai U. Ordinario
THE recently released 2007 Global Accountability Report (GAR) urged multinational companies, multilateral institutions and international non-government organizations (NGOs) to adopt nontraditional means to improve accountability and transparency policies and systems.
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/12102007/headlines01.html


II. POLITICAL
Arroyo meeting with Kuwaiti ruler on Ranario
By Lira Dalangin-Fernandez
MANILA, Philippines -- (UPDATE) Arrangements have been made for President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s audience with the Kuwaiti ruler on Sunday, Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita said Friday.
http://globalnation.inquirer.net/news/news/view_article.php?article_id=105472

Arroyo asks UN maritime body to hold 2010 convention in RP
By Veronica Uy
LONDON, United Kingdom -- President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on Thursday invited the International Maritime Organization (IMO) of the United Nations (UN) to hold its major convention in 2010 in the Philippines, the biggest source of maritime manpower in the world.
http://globalnation.inquirer.net/news/news/view_article.php?article_id=105494


‘I’m a very bad politician’ -- Arroyo
LONDON (via PLDT) -- President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has weathered countless political storms since assuming power in 2001, but she told British investors here that she is a bad politician.
http://globalnation.inquirer.net/news/breakingnews/view_article.php?article_id=105524

Cheap meds bill OK’d this week
Monday, December 10, 2007
The House of Representatives is set to approve the cheaper medicine bill, a priority administration measure, at the latest on Wednesday.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071209101

GMA to use energy revenues, royalties to reduce power rates
By Paolo Romero
Monday, December 10, 2007
President Arroyo is set to issue an order that would tap the government’s billion-peso revenues from the energy sector to help reduce power rates, Malacañang reported yesterday.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071209100


GMA to convene LEDAC
Monday, December 10, 2007
President Arroyo will convene tomorrow the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC) to push for the immediate passage of pending priority bills in Congress, officials said yesterday.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071209103


Senators push bigger budget for DOST, R&D
Monday, December 10, 2007
Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel Jr. is batting for a P100-million increase in the budget for science and technology to help the country make a quantum leap in its industrial and economic development.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071209107


Napocor’s share in electricity spot market down to 10%
By Donnabelle L. Gatdula
Monday, December 10, 2007
The share of the National Power Corp. (Napocor) at the country’s wholesale electricity spot market (WESM) has been steadily going down due to the continuing privatization of the National Government of its power facilities.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Business&p=49&type=2&sec=27&aid=200712098


No ‘Cha-cha’ fund in 2008 budget–Enrile
By Efren L. Danao, Senior Reporter
Sen. Juan Ponce Enrile, the chairman of the Senate Committee on Finance, allayed fears Sunday that the proposed P1.227-trillion budget for 2008 has hidden items for Charter change.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/dec/10/yehey/top_stories/20071210top4.html

EDITORIALS
Senate must not demote itself
Fr. Bienvenido Nebres, a most respected Jesuit educator (he is the president of Ateneo de Manila University), is quoted in an Inquirer report as saying: “I look forward to the future when the next President of the Philippines does not come from the Senate . . . “He was cheered for this statement. His audience was made up of enthusiasts for the promotion of good governance among mayors and governors.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/dec/10/yehey/opinion/20071210opi1.html
‘Gov’t is prime rights violator’
Gloria unlikely to regain trust, says CBCP head
BY GERARD NAVAL
IT would be difficult, "if not impossible," for the Arroyo government to get the public’s trust and respect and restore its credibility because it is one of the prime violators of human rights, Archbishop Angel Lagdameo said yesterday.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/dec10/news1.htm


Kuwait ruler spares Ranario from death
BY JOCELYN MONTEMAYOR
KUWAITI Emir Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah commuted the death sentence of Filipino overseas worker Marilou Ranario to life imprisonment following the appeal of President Arroyo during her four-hour visit to Kuwait yesterday, Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye said.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/dec10/news4.htm


Don’t underestimate
Gloria, the sly politician’
REP. Teodoro Locsin Jr. (PDP-Laban, Makati) yesterday said President Arroyo was being too modest when she said she is a good economist but a very bad politician.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/dec10/news7.htm

Kuwaiti Emir reduces death penalty of Ranario
12/10/2007
Kuwaiti Emir Sabah al-Ahmad al-Jaber al-Sabah has reduced the death penalty of overseas Filipino worker Marilou Ranario following a personal appearance of President Arroyo to convince him to save the convicted domestic helper from the gallows.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071210hed2.html

GMA’s bid for UK gov’t support vs RP military nationalists
By Alejandro Lichauco
12/10/2007
Why the visit to England and the very royal treatment GMA got there — received by the Queen of England and a visit from former Tony Blair? Wowwowwee. Well, read what GMA declared at the close of her official visit. She declared, according to the Inquirer, that the Philippines is not — repeat, not — afraid of globalization.” (“Sick man of Asia not afraid of globalization, PA2, Dec. 8).
http://www.tribune.net.ph/commentary/20071210com5.html
Mahina si GMA sa paliwanag
Amado Macasaet
Kita ko at tinatanggap na umuunlad ang ekonomiya. Marami ang dahilan. Pero hindi si Pangulong Gloria Arroyo ang isa. Una, malakas ang benta sa mga mall dahil palaki nang palaki ang padalang dolyar ng ating OFW.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/dec1007/main.htm


Senador wanted sa komiteng pinamumunuan
(Rey Marfil)
Kung nag-aaway ang ilang mambabatas at nakikipagpatintero para magkaroon ng committee chairmanship, kabaliktaran sa pag-uugali ng isang senador dahil sarili ang hinahabol ng kanyang komite, sampu ng mga tauhan nito.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/dec1007/main.htm


First Family lang ang umasenso ang buhay
(Rey Marfil/Rose Miranda)
Ito ang naging paglalarawan at buwelta ni opposition Senator Panfilo "Ping" Lacson sa First Family, kasabay ng pagmamalaki ni Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo sa buong mundo bilang magaling at matinong ekonomista.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/dec1007/main.htm


Transco sale pinasususpinde
(Eralyn Prado)
Dapat lang na suspendihin ang planong pagbebenta ng National Transmission Corporation (Transco).
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/dec1007/main.htm


Upang mapigil ang transport group: Pamilya 'susuhulan' ng Palasyo
Nina Rose Miranda, Juliet de Loza at Eralyn Prado
Tila may planong denggoyin ng Malacañang ang transport group upang hindi nito ituloy ang binabalak na transport holiday bunsod sa patuloy na pagtaas ng presyo ng langis sa bansa.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/dec1007/main.htm

Nationwide strike nakaamba
By: Arlene Rivera-Posadas
IKAKASA ng grupong Pinakaisang Samahan ng mga Transport Operators Nationwide (Piston) ang isang malawakang kilos-protesta sa mga darating na araw kasunod ng panibagong pagtataas sa presyo ng langis sa kabila ng paglakas ng halaga ng piso.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-12-10&sec=1&aid=41900



December 11, 2007 Mind Bullet Inc.
I.BANNER STORIES

1. Philippine Daily Inquirer
Arroyo slammed for slays
Jonas ma, victims' kin mark int'l rights day
By Tina Santos, Jerome Aning
CLAD in black shirts with their faces covered by black veils, female relatives of the victims of extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances held roses as they marched Monday in Manila to mark Human Rights Day.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=106049

2. The Philippine Star
1,000 troops to guard Magdalo trial in Makati
By James Mananghaya
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
The police and military will deploy more than 1,000 men at the Makati City Hall where a hearing on the coup d’etat charges against the so-called Oakwood mutineers resumes today.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071210124


3. Manila Times
One more time for ‘Cha-cha’
House committee revives talks on Charter Change
By Maricel V. Cruz Reporter
THE House of Representatives again has revived efforts to amend the 1987 Constitution.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/dec/11/yehey/top_stories/20071211top1.html


4. Malaya
1,000 soldiers deployed in Makati today
Security beefed up for Trillanes hearing
BY VICTOR REYES
THE military is beefing up security for today’s resumption of the trial of Oakwood mutineers before the Makati City regional trial court, assuring the public there will be no repeat of the Manila Peninsula hotel standoff.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/dec11/news1.htm


5. Manila Bulletin
GMA arrives today from Kuwait
Thanks Emir for sparing Ranario’s life
GMA orders quick response to OFWs in distress
By DAVID CAGAHASTIAN
President Arroyo will arrive early morning today, Tuesday, after state and official visits last week to France, Spain, the United Kingdom and Kuwait.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20071211111273.html

6. The Daily Tribune
CIDG denies violence, coercion; concedes dearth of evidence
3 Batasan blast suspects cry torture by PNP; recant testimonies
By Benjamin B. Pulta
Former Basilan town mayor, Hajarun Jamiri, who pointed to party-list Rep. Mujiv Hataman, his brother Jim and former deputy Speaker, Basilan Rep. Gerry Salapuddin, as the brains behind the Batasan bombing that injured several persons and killed five others, including Basilan Rep. Wahab Akbar, has recanted his affidavit, saying he was tortured by the police that arrested him and was forced to implicate the three in his affidavit.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071211hed1.html


7. Abante
GLORIA NGINIG SA MAGDALO
Nina NILO MARASIGAN, TINA MENDOZA at ROSE MIRANDA
Isanlibong sundalo at ‘tight police security’ ang inilatag ngayong araw sa Makati City Regional Trial Court (RTC) sa pagpapatuloy ng mutiny hearing laban sa Magdalo soldiers.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/dec1107/main.htm

8. Abante-Tonite
P4B ASENSO FUND SISIGURUHING 'DI MABUBULSA
Ni Rey Marfil
Bagama’t yumuko sa kagustuhan ng Malacañang, hindi pa nakakasiguro si Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo sa pagpabor ng oposisyon sa hinihinging extra fund, partikular ang P4 bilyong Kilos-Asenso fund na naunang tinanggap ng Mataas na Kapulungan ng Kongreso sa ilalim ng 2008 national budget.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/dec1007/main.htm


9. Pilipino Star Ngayon
Power scam!
Ni Butch Quejada
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Nanganganib na tumaas ng hanggang P700 kada buwan ang halaga ng kuryente dahil sa multi-bilyong pisong anomalya sa National Power Corporation.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2007121117


10. Journal
ST SUSPECTS RECANT
By: Hector Lawas and Jester Manalastas
Ex-mayor, 2 others tortured to implicate Hataman, Salapuddin
THREE suspects in the Batasan bombing that killed Basilan Rep. Wahab Akbar yesterday recanted their affidavits, saying they were tortured by the police into making their confessions that implicated former Rep. Gerry Salapuddin and Anak-Mindanao Rep. Mujiv Hataman.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-12-11&sec=1&aid=42073


11. Business World
Palace, Congress to review priorities
THE LEGISLATIVE-EXECUTIVE DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COUNCIL (LEDAC) will meet today to revisit the administration’s legislative agenda and formulate strategies to fast-track its approval.
http://www.bworld.com.ph/BW121107/content.php?id=001



12. Business Mirror
P living standards below Asia’s
By Dennis D. Estopace
GROWTH has not put the individual Filipino on a par with regional standards, a recently released Asian Development Bank (ADB) study said.
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/12112007/headlines01.html

II. POLITICAL
COMMENTARY
The curfew State
By Florin T. Hilbay
With the Arroyo administration’s foray into a regime of curfews, the Philippines backtracks -- yet again -- from constitutionalism and moves even closer to de facto authoritarianism. Whereas President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s previous proclamations of a state of emergency at least relied on the superficial justification that they were simply “declarations” of the state of events (even if, in fact, people were arrested, media outfits were threatened, and one newspaper was actually raided), her imposition of a region-wide curfew is per se a violation of the Constitution.
http://opinion.inquirer.net/inquireropinion/columns/view_article.php?article_id=106041

President says Ranario case proof of gov't rights policy
By Christine Avendano
MARKING human rights day Monday, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo said her successful bid to save the life of Filipino maid Marilou Ranario was proof of her administration's determination to protect the lives of Filipinos, whether here or abroad.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=106054

Senate decides not to arrest Neri yet
By Dona Pazzibugan
MANILA, Philippines -- Former socio-economic planning secretary Romulo Neri was spared possible arrest when he showed up at a Senate plenary session Monday afternoon.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20071210-106051/Senate_decides_not_to_arrest_Neri_yet

Supreme Court asked to nullify NBN deal for good
By Leila Salaverria
MANILA, Philippines -- Although President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo shelved the controversial National Broadband Network (NBN) project with China, Iloilo Vice Governor Rolex Suplico still wants the Supreme Court to annul the $329-million deal in order to drive the “final nail to its coffin.”
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20071210-106046/Supreme_Court_asked_to_nullify_NBN_deal_for_good



Senate to raise affordable medicines bill in LEDAC meet
By Dona Pazzibugan
MANILA, Philippines -- Malacañang and some lawmakers will try on Tuesday to resolve an impasse in the House of Representatives over a bill that aims to lower the price of medicines.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20071210-106037/Senate_to_raise_affordable_medicines_bill_in_LEDAC_meet


Charter change revived in House; deliberations set
By Maila Ager
MANILA, Philippines -- Proposals to amend the 1987 Constitution have been revived at the House of Representatives as one opposition lawmaker warned of a “more deadly political war” among various sectors if this would be done through a people’s initiative.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20071210-106005/Charter_change_revived_in_House;_deliberations_set


Arroyo sacks Iloilo prosecutor over graft
By Lira Dalangin-Fernandez
MANILA, Philippines -- President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has affirmed a recommendation of the Presidential Anti-Graft Commission (PAGC) dismissing a city prosecutor for graft.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/topstories/topstories/view/20071210-106004/Arroyo_sacks_Iloilo_prosecutor_over_graft


GMA’s allies resurrect Cha-cha through con-con
By Jess Diaz
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Allies of President Arroyo in the House of Representatives are resurrecting her administration’s Charter change (Cha-cha) initiative.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071210130


Neri shows up at Senate, but stays mum on NBN
By Christina Mendez
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Former socio-economic planning secretary Romulo Neri finally showed up at the Senate yesterday to attend a budget hearing but still kept mum over details of his conversation with President Arroyo regarding the P200-million bribe that was allegedly offered by former Commission on Elections (Comelec) Chairman Benjamin Abalos regarding the $329-million national broadband network (NBN) deal.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071210135

Senate minority wants additional P20 billion for social services
By Aurea Calica
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Minority senators want P20 billion added to social services in next year’s proposed P1.227-trillion budget, apart from the P17-billion cut in debt service sought by the House of Representatives, according to Sen. Loren Legarda.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071210139


GMA to Kuwait emir: We won’t forget this act of generosity
By Paolo Romero
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
“We will not forget this act of generosity.”
This was President Arroyo’s message of thanks to Kuwait’s Emir Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmad al-Sabah for sparing 34-year-old Marilou Ranario from execution by hanging.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071210136


Government urged to stop borrowing in dollars to tame peso’s strength
By Aurea Calica
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Sen. Manuel Roxas II has urged the government to cease borrowing in dollars to amortize the country’s foreign debt and instead borrow in pesos to buy the dollars needed for debt amortization to tame the peso’s strength.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071210142


27 other OFWs in death-penalty cases
List includes five Filipinos in Saudi Arabia who already judged guilty by the courts
By Francis Earl A. Cueto Reporter
While the country can rejoice in President Gloria Arroyo’s victory in convincing the Emir of Kuwait to stop the execution of Marilou Ranario, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said five other overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) are presently in death row, with another 22 charged in cases where the punishment is death.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/dec/11/yehey/metro/20071211met1.html


Senate spares Neri from sanction
BY JP LOPEZ
HIGHER Education Secretary Romulo Neri will have a "Neri-Christmas" as senators decided yesterday not to cite him for contempt for snubbing the previous Senate investigation on the controversial $329 million national broadband deal with China’s ZTE Corp.
But Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano, chairman of the lead panel Blue Ribbon committee, warned Malacañang officials against what he called "whimsical" invocation of executive privilege to snub congressional hearings.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/dec11/news7.htm


Tight security at Trillanes hearing today
By KRIS BAYOS & RIO ROSE RIBAYA
Despite the earlier request of the Makati City government for a change of venue, today’s hearing of the 2003 Oakwood mutiny case of Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV and his 30 co-accused will still be held at the new Makati City Hall, prompting the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) to tighten security measures in the area.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20071211111275.html

Neri shows up at Senate, but remains mum on NBN deal
Former Socio-Economic Planning Secretary Romulo Neri yesterday showed up at the Senate but remained silent on the controversial $ 329-million National Broadband Network (NBN) contract of the government with China’s ZTE Corp. that was cancelled by President Arroyo during a visit to China recently.
Neri Christmas na lang, for now," said Sen. Alan Peter S. Cayetano, chairman of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MTNN20071211111281.html


3 Batasan blast suspects cry torture by PNP; recant testimonies
By Benjamin B. Pulta
Former Basilan town mayor, Hajarun Jamiri, who pointed to party-list Rep. Mujiv Hataman, his brother Jim and former deputy Speaker, Basilan Rep. Gerry Salapuddin, as the brains behind the Batasan bombing that injured several persons and killed five others, including Basilan Rep. Wahab Akbar, has recanted his affidavit, saying he was tortured by the police that arrested him and was forced to implicate the three in his affidavit.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071211hed1.html


Senate freezes contempt rap vs Neri
Commission on Higher Education (Ched) Chairman Romulo Neri can now heave a sigh of relief, as the former Socio-Economic and Planning chief was practically given a reprieve by senators on being cited for contempt, at least during the duration of the holiday season.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071211hed5.html


Senate minority insists on debt-service cuts
By Butch Fernandez
MINORITY senators Monday insisted on retaining the full P17.8-billion House cut in automatic appropriations for debt service in the 2008 budget bill, which was reduced to about P12 billion on the initiative of Sen. Juan Ponce Enrile’s finance committee.
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/12112007/headlines09.html


Dalawang liham
Lito Banayo
Sa pitak na ito, magbibigay-daan tayo sa dalawang Pinoy na naninirahan sa ibang bansa, na ibinuhos sa liham ang kanilang nararamdaman.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/dec1107/main.htm


Ang laban ng Sumilao farmers
Ellen Tordesilla
Dapat tutukan natin itong kaso ng mga magsasaka ng Sumilao, Bukidnon na ngayon ay nasa labas ng opisina ng Department of Agrarian Reform.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/dec1107/main.htm


Rehimeng Arroyo at media
Jake Macasaet
Dahil poder mismo ni Pangulong Gloria Arroyo ang nalagay sa panganib sa nabigong balak na tumbahin ang kanyang rehimen, malaking isyu ang pag-aaway ng mga alipores ni GMA at ng media.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/dec1107/main.htm


Neri, umapir sa Senado
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Upang masiguradong papasa ang budget ng Commission on Higher Education (CHED), nagpakita na rin sa Senado si dating Socio-Economic Planning Secretary Romulo Neri na naging kontrobersiyal dahil sa $329.5 milyon national broadband network deal.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2007121122


House revives Cha-Cha
CONTRARY to the “moratorium” promised earlier by Speaker Jose de Venecia, the House of Representatives is all set to tackle fresh moves to amend the 1987 Constitution.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-12-11&sec=1&aid=42074


Multi-billion Napocor scam
By: Jester P. Manalastas
BUKIDNON Rep. Teofisto Guingona III yesterday exposed an alleged multibillion-peso corruption scheme at the National Power Corporation and the reported syndicate behind it.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-12-11&sec=1&aid=42086


Palace to push pardon for Ranario
By: Efren Montano
A ROYAL pardon will still be pushed by Malacañang to Kuwaiti’s emir, Sheik Sabah Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah to pave the way for the liberty of convicted 34- year-old overseas Filipino worker (OFW) Marilou Ranario even as President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo flies home victorious early this morning at about 1 a.m.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-12-11&sec=1&aid=42105



December 12 , 2007 Mind Bullet Inc.
I.BANNER STORIES
1. Philippine Daily Inquirer
Palace junked P100-M pork for Trillanes
By Christine Avendaño, Dona Pazzibugan
Inquirer
Last updated 00:04am (Mla time) 12/12/2007
MANILA, Philippines--SEN. ANTONIO TRILLANES IV may have attempted to stage a revolt at the Peninsula Manila on Nov. 29 because the Department of Budget and Management did not release P100 million of his pork barrel, Malacañang said Tuesday.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=106301

.2. The Philippine Star
Trillanes, rebel officers apologize for walkout
By Michael Punongbayan And James Mananghaya
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
After taking over the Peninsula Manila hotel last Nov. 29 and nearly transforming Makati City’s business district into a battle zone, Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV and some rebellious junior military officers sought forgiveness yesterday from a judge for their walkout from a court hearing that jumpstarted the hotel siege.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071211152

3. Manila Times
Estrada to fight ‘Cha-cha’
Former president threatens to lead street protests
By Francis Earl A. Cueto Reporter
FORMER President Joseph Estrada on Tuesday warned of chaos and promised to personally take to the streets again to lead protests against any move to amend the 1987 Constitution.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/dec/12/yehey/top_stories/20071212top1.html


4. Malaya
GMA found most corrupt president
Palace says media is to blame for survey results
BY REGINA BENGCO
ALMOST one of two Filipinos believe that President is the "most corrupt (president) in the history of the Philippines," a survey conducted from Oct. 20 to 31 by Pulse Asia showed.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/dec12/news1.htm

5. Manila Bulletin
LEDAC supports nine bills
Senate approves P1.277-trillion budget for 2008
Education, public works, security get budget priority
By GENALYN D. KABILING
President Arroyo yesterday got lawmakers to agree to pass at least nine priority legislations, including the 2008 national budget and a measure to reduce electricity rates, before Congress goes on a Christmas break.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20071212111346.html

6. The Daily Tribune
JdV blasts PNP for witness torture
By Sherwin C. Olaes and Charlie V. Manalo
12/12/2007
Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr. yesterday cried foul and blasted the Philippine National Police over the alleged torture inflicted by the police on former Basilan town Mayor Hajarun Jamiri, to force him to implicate in the Batasan blast, Anak Mindanao party-list Rep. Mujiv Hataman, his brother Jim and former Deputy Speaker Basilan Rep. Gerry Salapuddin, as the brains behind the November bombing at the House of Representatives, that claimed the lives of Basilan Rep. Wahab Akbar and four others.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071212hed1.html

7. Abante
CHACHA? DEAD-ON ARRIVAL!
Nina ERALYN PRADO, ROSE MIRANDA at BOYET JADULCO
Kasabay ng pagbutata ng minority bloc sa House committee on constitutional amendments, mismong si House Speaker Jose De Venecia Jr. na ang bumitaw sa usapin ng binubuhay pa ring pagretoke sa Saligang Batas na mas kilala bilang ChaCha o Charter change.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/dec1207/main.htm



8. Abante-Tonite
NURSING STUDENT BUMULUSOK SA 10TH FLOOR NG CONDO
(Vladi Eduarte)
Binawian ng buhay ilang oras matapos isugod sa pagamutan ang isang dalagang nursing student nang mahulog umano ito mula sa tinutuluyan sa 10th floor ng isang condominium sa Makati City kahapon.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/dec1207/main.htm

9. Pilipino Star Ngayon
Tigil-pasada
Nina Angie dela Cruz, Rose Tamayo-Tesoro at Edwin Balasa
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Tuloy na at wala nang atrasan pa ang bantang malawakan at malakihang transport holiday na isasagawa ng may 250,000 miyembro ng Pinagkaisang Samahan ng mga Tsuper at Operators Nationwide (Piston) bukas, Disyembre 13 sa iba’t ibang panig ng bansa.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=20071211129

10. Journal
STRIKE
By: Lee Ann P. Ducusin
Nationwide transport holiday set tomorrow over soaring oil prices
ONE of the country’s biggest transport groups is pushing through tomorrow with its threat to paralyze the public transportation system with a massive strike to protest the unrestrained oil price hikes.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-12-12&sec=1&aid=42198

11. Business World
Palace tightens on NGO tax perks
MALACAÑANG HAS ABOLISHED A SELF-REGULATION SCHEME that has determined for nearly a decade which nongovernment organizations (NGOs) are entitled to accept tax-deductible donations, in a sudden move that could jeopardize the flow of money from big corporate donors to charities carrying out social development work.
http://www.bworld.com.ph/BW121207/content.php?id=001






12. Business Mirror
I.M.F. GIVES COUNSEL ON COUNTRY'S UNSUSTAINABLE PATH
Growth good, revenue poor
By Jun Vallecera
Reporter

THE International Monetary Fund (IMF) has turned bullish on the Philippines and revised its forecast growth for both this year and next to a higher plane, notwithstanding the anticipated slower growth in the US, the country’s largest trading partner.
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/12122007/headlines01.html

II. POLITICAL
Trillanes says sorry to judge but not to Arroyo
By DJ Yap, Nikko Dizon
Inquirer
Last updated 01:20am (Mla time) 12/12/2007
LOOKING somber but defiant, Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV and the soldiers accused in a 2003 mutiny apologized Tuesday to a judge for walking out of their trial last month but did not say they were sorry to President Gloria Arroyo and for mounting a short-lived attempt to ignite a people power revolt.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=106319

Top ARMM cop gets ultimatum: Get Bedol by Dec. 31 or else...
By Beverly T. Natividad, Alcuin Papa
Inquirer
Last updated 01:20am (Mla time) 12/12/2007
THE POLICE chief of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao has until Dec. 31 to arrest Lintang Bedol, the wanted election supervisor of Maguindanao.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=106320

Transco bidding on Wednesday; judge dismisses TRO
By Doris Dumlao, Abigail L. Ho, Gil C. Cabacungan Jr.
Inquirer
Last updated 01:20am (Mla time) 12/12/2007
THE MAKATI REGIONAL TRIAL COURT has dismissed a petition for a temporary restraining order (TRO) on the privatization of one of the government's largest assets, paving the way for the bidding out Wednesday for the multibillion-peso National Transmission Corp. (Transco).
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=106321

House minority willing to back ‘specific’ Cha-cha
By Jess Diaz
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
The opposition bloc in the House of Representatives is willing to support specific amendments to the Constitution – but not a wholesale revision.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071211154

Cebu solon raps two colleagues on cheaper medicines bill
By Christian V. Esguerra
Inquirer
Last updated 03:51:00 12/12/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- Cebu Representative Pablo Garcia has scolded two congressional colleagues for allegedly alluding to him as the one blocking the passage of the Cheaper Medicines Bill.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20071212-106350/Cebu_solon_raps_two_colleagues_on_cheaper_medicines_bill

Senate passes P1.2-trillion 2008 budget
By Dona Pazzibugan
Inquirer
Last updated 00:58:00 12/12/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- The Senate in record time approved Tuesday night its version of the P1.227-trillion national budget for 2008 after two weeks of marathon deliberations.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20071212-106315/Senate_passes_P1.2-trillion_2008_budget

Poll: GMA most corrupt RP leader
By Helen Flores
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
President Arroyo is perceived to be the “most corrupt” president in the history of the Philippines, a survey by Pulse Asia revealed yesterday.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071211155

Senate passes P1.227-trillion budget for 2008
By Aurea Calica
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
After three weeks of marathon deliberations, the Senate passed on final reading yesterday the proposed P1.227-trillion national budget for 2008, carrying a special provision to cut debt interest payments, including those on questionable loans by realigning them to social services.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071211158


Congress vows 10 of 35 priority bills approved before recess
By Paolo RomeroBy Paolo Romero
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Leaders of Congress committed yesterday to approve 10 out of the 35 priority bills before lawmakers go on their Christmas break on Dec. 21.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071211159

Bataan nuclear power plant safe for operation, says scientist
By Helen Flores
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
A Filipino scientist yesterday pushed for the operation of the mothballed Bataan Nuclear Power Plant (BNPP) to cushion the impact of a possible energy crisis in the country due to the continuing increase of world crude prices.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071211160

Senate to probe Pen standoff
By Christina Mendez
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Two Senate committees will conduct an inquiry on Thursday on the circumstances that led to the Peninsula Manila hotel standoff between government troops and rebel soldiers led by Sen. Antonio Trillanes in Makati City last Nov. 29.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071211162

Budget ni Edu iipitin sa Senado
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Bagaman at binigyan ng P25.2 milyong budget ng Senado ang ahensiya ni actor/TV host Edu Manzano na Optical Media Board (OMB), isusulong pa rin umano ni Senate President Manuel Villar na tuluyan nang tanggalan ng budget ang ahensiya.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=20071211130

Kaya raw nagwala si Trillanes P100-M ‘pork’ di nakubra
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Posible umanong ang dahilan ng muling “pagwawala” ni Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV ay dahil nabigo siyang makuha ang hinihinging P100 milyong pork barrel.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=20071211133

Trillanes Sorry For Walking Out Of Makati Court
THE group of Sen. Antonio Trillanes 4th apologized for walking out of a court hearing on November 29 that was a prelude to a failed rebellion that involved the takeover of a five-star hotel.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/dec/12/yehey/top_stories/20071212top2.html

Senate, House to clash over Constitution
By Efren L. Danao Senior Reporter
SENATORS rejected Tuesday moves to revive efforts to amend the Constitution, dampening fresh initiatives from members of the House of Representatives to call a Constitutional Convention or “Con-con.”
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/dec/12/yehey/top_stories/20071212top4.html

Slighted senators suggest ‘zero budget’ for OMB
By Sammy Martin Correspondent
THE Senate on Tuesday recommended a zero budget for the Optical Media Board (OMB) in 2008, citing its “lackluster performance” in curbing software piracy in the country.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/dec/12/yehey/top_stories/20071212top5.html

SC asks House to explain impeach junking
By Jomar Canlas Reporter
THE Supreme Court ordered the House of Representatives to explain why the supplemental impeachment complaint against President Gloria Arroyo and former Commission on Elections Chairman Benjamin Abalos Sr. in relation to the controversial national broadband deal was immediately junked.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/dec/12/yehey/metro/20071212met1.html

Senate, House agree to work on 10 bills before holiday
Legislators have identified 35 important bills during the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC) on Tuesday, but have agreed to pass only 10 of those before the Christmas recess, deputy Press Secretary Anthony Golez said.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/dec/12/yehey/metro/20071212met2.html

So sorry for walkout, Trillanes tells court
BY ASHZEL HACHERO
SEN. Antonio Trillanes IV and other Magdalo officers yesterday apologized to the Makati regional trial court trying their coup d’état case for walking out of the last hearing.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/dec12/news2.htm

Palace ties Pen to freeze on Trillanes pork
MALACAÑANG yesterday said its refusal to release P100 million for Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV’s projects might have been one of the reasons the Magdalo leader staged the Peninsula standoff last November 29.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/dec12/news4.htm

Senate passes P1.2T budget
THE Senate Tuesday night passed on second and third reading the proposed P1.227 trillion national budget for 2008, containing a special provision that suspends interest payments on questionable and fraudulent loans.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/dec12/news7.htm

EDITORIAL
Pass these bills
THE 14th Congress is taking its Christmas break without having passed a law it can take pride in during its first session. No wonder then that the Joint Foreign Chambers of Commerce of the Philippines are concerned about the quality of legislation (or the lack of it) since the start of the session last July.]
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/dec/12/yehey/opinion/20071212opi1.html

INSIDE CONGRESS
By Efren L. Danao
Hocus-pocus on the budget
I MAY be a little dense but for the life of me, I could not understand how the Senate or the House could pare down the budget for debt servicing. The House cut P17.8 billion from the budget for debt servicing, then realigned it to increase the budget for education, books, desks, scholarships and school buildings, among others. The Senate Committee on Finance recommended a cut of only P12.1 billion from the appropriation for debt servicing. Sen. Juan Ponce Enrile, the committee chairman, said they went for a lower cut because they could not take the risk of the country’s defaulting in its debt payment. Like the House, the Senate committee realigned the P12.1 billion for other services.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/dec/12/yehey/opinion/20071212opi5.html

House, Senate headed for collision on Cha-cha
THE Senate and the House of Representatives are again on a collision course after President Arroyo’s congressmen allies yesterday started to revive Charter change.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/dec12/news8.htm

Trillanes, others apologize to court for walkout
By LEONARD D. POSTRADO
Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV and several members of the Magdalo group apologized yesterday to a Makati Regional Trial Court (RTC) judge for staging a walkout which eventually led to a six-hour standoff at the Manila Peninsula hotel on Nov. 29.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20071212111349.html

Legarda sees Senate rejecting Cha-cha anew
Sen. Loren Legarda expects the Senate to reject anew moves to amend the 1987 Constitution coming from administration allies in the House of Representatives.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20071212111350.html

Trillanes, others ‘sorry’ for court walkout; GMA reiterates full penalty for rebels
12/12/2007
Detained Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV and the other Magdalo officers yesterday apologized to the Makati City regional trial court (RTC) for staging a walkout from their hearing last Nov. 29 when they marched toward, and caused a standoff at the Manila Peninsula hotel while calling again on President Arroyo to step down from power.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071212hed4.html

Senators warn heads will roll over scams
12/12/2007
Heads are likely to roll at government agencies in the power industry reported to be in serious financial mess, as senators are out to unmask the culprits in the alleged anomalous power deals they had forged.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071212hed5.html

Senate to grill police, military in Manila Pen siege ‘overkill’
12/12/2007
Top military and police brass face tough grilling before senators over the imposition of curfew last Nov. 30, following the failed rebellion led by detained Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV and Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim, along with the perceived illegal arrest of members of the media who covered the event as it transpired inside the Manila Peninsula in Makati City.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/nation/20071212nat1.html




December 13, 2007 Mind Bullet Inc.
I.BANNER STORIES
1. Philippine Daily Inquirer
(UPDATE) Philippine-Chinese group tops Transco bidding
Inquirer
Last updated 01:43am (Mla time) 12/13/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- After three failed attempts to bid out the 25-year concession of the power grid operator National Transmission Corp. (Transco), the government has finally succeeded in getting a new concessionaire: a consortium comprising local firms Monte Oro Grid Resources Corp. and Calaca High Power Corp. and China’s State Grid Corp.
http://business.inquirer.net/money/topstories/view_article.php?article_id=106556
.
2. The Philippine Star
RP-Chinese group bags TransCo deal with $3.95-B bid
By Donnabelle Gatdula
Thursday, December 13, 2007
A consortium of Filipino and Chinese firms led by local infrastructure holding firm Monte Oro Grid Resources Corp. bagged yesterday the concession contract for power grid operator National Transmission Corp. (TransCo) with a bid of $3.95 billion.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=2007121299

3. Manila Times
RP-China group wins $3.95-B TransCo bid
By Euan Paulo C. Añonuevo, Reporter
THE group led by Monte Oro Grid Resources Corp. posted the highest bid for the concession of state grid National Transmission Corp. (TransCo) in an auction conducted by the Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management (PSALM) Corp. on Wednesday.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/dec/13/yehey/top_stories/20071213top1.html





4. Malaya
Palace in denial mode on Arroyo corruption
‘Presidency is not a popularity contest’
BY REGINA BENGCO
MALACAÑANG officials yesterday reacted in different ways to a Pulse Asia survey which showed President Arroyo as the most corrupt president, ranging from expressing sadness to questioning its credibility.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/dec13/news1.htm

5. Manila Bulletin
P7-B bonus for gov’t workers
Performance bonuses of up to P10,000 readied
GMA cites gov’t savings and robust economy
By DAVID CAGAHASTIAN
President Arroyo ordered yesterday the release of performance bonuses ranging from a minimum of P7,000 to a maximum of R10,000 to every employee of national government agencies, including government-owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs) and government financial institutions (GFIs).
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20071213111445.html

6. The Daily Tribune
Ally wants GMA ‘most corrupt’ poll probed
By Angie M. Rosales
12/13/2007
In a bid to kill the messenger for coming up with a survey message showing President Arroyo as the “most corrupt president” in Philippine history, her staunchest ally, Sen. Miriam Santiago, yesterday vowed to unmask the alleged “culprit” behind the latest Pulse Asia survey that dared to make public the unfavorable results of its poll on who among the Philippine presidents earned the tag as the most corrupt.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071213hed1.html

7. Abante
Pinaka-corrupt na Pangulo
GUSTO PANG TUMAGAL SA PUWESTO!
Ulat ng Abante Reportorial Team
Tanging sa Pilipinas lamang nangyayari ang umano’y may pinaka- corrupt na Pangulo na gusto pang tumagal sa panunungkulan.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/dec1307/main.htm


8. Abante-Tonite
TRILLANES NAPAIKOT SA PORK BARREL
(Rey Marfil)
Ito ang naging paglalarawan ni Sen. Panfilo "Ping" Lacson sa paghingi ng kasamahang si Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV ng pork barrel kahit naunang idineklara nito ang kawalang interes na humingi ng pondo.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/dec1307/main.htm

9. Pilipino Star Ngayon
P10K bonus sa gov’t employees inaprub ni GMA
Ni Rudy Andal
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Makutitap na Pasko ang ipagdiriwang ng lahat ng empleyado ng pamahalaan kaugnay ng ipinalabas na kautusan ni Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo na magkakaloob sa kanila ng P10,000 Performance Bonus.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2007121223

10. Journal
BONUS
By: Tess Bedico
GMA brings Xmas cheer to state workers
PRESIDENT Macapagal-Arroyo is playing Santa to all government employees whether permanent, temporary, casual or contractual.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-12-13&sec=1&aid=42305

11. Business World

12. Business Mirror
Courts for business disputes studied
By Joel R. San Juan
Reporter
SUPREME Court Chief Justice Reynato Puno is amenable to the proposal of the Joint Foreign Chambers of Commerce to create special courts to handle legal controversies involving foreign investments and loan agreements for government projects.
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/12132007/headlines01.html




II. POLITICAL
CHRISTMAS BONUS
1.4-M gov't workers to get P10,000 each
By Christine Avendano
Inquirer
Last updated 00:58:00 12/13/2007
PRESIDENT Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on Wednesday gave the government's 1.4 million workers a Christmas bonus of P10,000, citing a "robust economy" and savings in operations.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20071213-106554/14-M_govt_workers_to_get_P10000_each

House adjourns without passing cheaper medicines bill
By Maila Ager
INQUIRER.net
Last updated 20:39:00 12/12/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- The House of Representatives adjourned Wednesday night without passing a bill seeking to lower the prices of medicines in the country.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20071212-106491/House_adjourns_without_passing_cheaper_medicines_bill

Opposition bet will be next president--Estrada
By Kristine L. Alave
Inquirer
Last updated 19:48:00 12/12/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- The next president will come from the opposition, former president Joseph Estrada, elder politician of the opposition, confidently declared on Wednesday when asked to make his predictions of the 2010 presidential elections.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20071212-106477/Opposition_bet_will_be_next_president--Estrada

Palace relying on allies to restore Senate budget cuts
By Lira Dalangin-Fernandez
INQUIRER.net
Last updated 19:18:00 12/12/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- Malacañang is relying on its allies in Congress to restore the cuts the Senate made on debt payments and the administration's anti-poverty program, Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita said.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20071212-106474/Palace_relying_on_allies_to_restore_Senate_budget_cuts


Gov’t workers get P10,000 ‘performance bonus’
By Paolo Romero
Thursday, December 13, 2007
At least one million government workers will receive a maximum of P10,000 each this Christmas after President Arroyo signed an order yesterday granting the cash gift as “performance bonuses.”
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071212100

‘Charter change dead’
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Administration lawmakers are no longer interested in reviving efforts to change the Constitution – at least for now, according to two leaders of the House of Representatives.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071212102

Opposition choosing among 6 possible presidential bets for 2010
By Non Alquitran
Thursday, December 13, 2007
The opposition would choose from six perceived presidential wanna-bes as its standard-bearer for the 2010 elections, former President Joseph Estrada said yesterday.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071212110]

‘Storm of lawsuits’ faces employers if 13th month pay not released
By Mayen Jaymalin
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Amid rising prices of basic commodities, the country’s largest trade union yesterday reminded employers nationwide to give their workers the mandatory 13th month pay and other bonuses.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071212128

Andaya has different take on freeze on pork
BUDGET Secretary Rolando Andaya Jr. yesterday said the request for funding for Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV’s pork barrel projects amounting to P100 million was rejected because there was no allocation for it.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/dec13/news5.htm

Charter change unacceptable – Bishop Cruz
By LESLIE ANN G. AQUINO
Charter change (Chacha) is unacceptable under the present leadership, a senior member of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) said yesterday.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20071213111447.html
Is this for real? GMA gives P10B in bonuses
PRESIDENT Arroyo yesterday ordered the grant of a P10,000 performance bonus for each of the government’s estimated 1 million employees for what she said was their contribution to economic growth.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/dec13/news6.htm

Villar, Mar, Loren urge GMA to act on corruption issue
By MARIO B. CASAYURAN
Senate President Manuel B. Villar Jr. challenged yesterday President Arroyo to allow her Cabinet members to appear before public hearings by Senate committees to explain questionable policies or graft-scented multi-million peso contracts and to adopt a policy of transparency in order to reverse public perception that she is the most corrupt President of the Republic since 1965.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20071213111450.html

Estrada to press for 1 opposition presidential candidate in 2010 polls
By ANNA LIZA T. VILLAS
Former President Joseph Estrada said yesterday that he will push for a single presidential candidate for the opposition in the 2010 elections to ensure victory.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MTNN20071213111460.html

Gloria-backed group bags $3-B Transco bid
By Riza Recio
12/13/2007
A group with links to the brother of President Arroyo and their alleged business ally, Enrique Razon, submitted the top bid for the more than $3-billion 25-year lease agreement for the country’s transmission grid.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071213hed4.html

House majority leader urges colleagues not to push Cha-cha
12/13/2007
House Majority Leader Arthur Defensor in an unprecedented move yesterday urged his fellow administration lawmakers not to tinker with the idea of amending the Constitution, saying it would be suicidal to do so.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/nation/20071213nat1.html

Buwagin na ang Senado!
Horacio Paredes
Sa aking pananaw, dapat lamang na talagang buwagin na nga ang Senado. Ito ang kauna-unahang panukala sa pagbabago ng ating Saligang Batas na aking susuportahan. Ang mas nangunguna pa rito ay ang pagtanggal ng mga probisyon sa ating Saligang Batas tungkol sa pagbabawal sa mga dayuhan na pumasok sa ilang mga piling negosyo sa ating bansa at ang pagbabawal sa kanila na magmay-ari ng lupain.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/dec1307/main.htm

Resign Gloria kaysa ChaCha
(BT)
Mas magiging maayos ang buhay ng mga Filipino kung magre-resign na lamang si Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo kaysa palitan ang sistema ng gobyerno sa pamamagitan ng Charter Change (ChaCha).
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/dec1307/main.htm

Most Corrupt President, onli in da Pilipins!
(Rey Marfil/Bernard Taguinod)
Katakut-takot na kantyaw ang inabot ni Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo mula sa tatlong presidentiables matapos lumabas sa Pulse Asia survey ang pagiging ‘Most Corrupt President’ nito simula nang mauso ang gobyerno at nagsarili bilang Republika ang Pilipinas.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/dec1307/main.htm

Gatasan sa impeachment matitigil na
(Rey Marfil)
Labis na ikinatuwa ni Sen. Panfilo "Ping" Lacson ang direktiba ng Korte Suprema sa Mababang Kapulungan ng Kongreso na ipaliwanag ang pagtanggap ng mga dispalinghadong impeachment complaint laban kay Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/dec1307/main.htm

Senate passes P1.2-T budget
By: Bernadette E. Tamayo
The Senate passed the proposed P1.227-trillion national budget for 2008 after three weeks of marathon deliberations.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-12-13&sec=1&aid=42322

Erap to push for lone opposition presidential bet in 2010
By: Jerico Javier
OUSTED President Joseph Estrada said he would push for a single presidential candidate for the opposition in 2010 to ensure its victory.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-12-13&sec=4&aid=42348



December 14, 2007 Mind Bullet Inc.
I.BANNER STORIES
1. Philippine Daily Inquirer
Arroyo seeks return of subversion law
By Christine Avendaño
Inquirer
Last updated 00:23:00 12/14/2007
PRESIDENT MACAPAGAL-ARROYO on Thursday said she was supporting the revival of the Anti-Subversion Law, which punishes membership in the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP), to help put an end to the communist insurgency.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20071214-106722/Arroyo_seeks_return_of_subversion_law

2. The Philippine Star
Government denies TransCo bid rigging allegations
By Mike Frialde and Aurea Calica
Friday, December 14, 2007
Administration officials rejected yesterday allegations of bid rigging and conflict of interest involving a presidential brother and a businessman reputed to be close to President Arroyo in the awarding of a 25-year concession to run the country’s power grids to a consortium of Filipino and Chinese firms.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071213105

3. Manila Times
Rebellion cases dismissed
18 civilians cleared in Manila Peninsula standoff
By James Konstantin Galvez, Reporter
The Makati Regional Trial Court on Thursday dismissed the rebellion charges against former Vice-President Teofisto Guingona Jr., Bishop Emeritus Julio Xavier Labayen, and 16 other civilians implicated in the November 29 Manila Peninsula hotel standoff.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/dec/14/yehey/top_stories/20071214top1.html


4. Malaya
Court frees 14 in Pen Case vs Guingona, 17 others dismissed
BY ASHZEL HACHERO
A MAKATI court yesterday dismissed for lack of probable cause the rebellion charge filed by the justice department against former Vice President Teofisto Guingona and 17 others in connection with the standoff at the Peninsula Hotel in Makati City late last month.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/dec14/news1.htm

5. Manila Bulletin
Holiday ceasefire declared
Cessation of fighting set Dec. 16 to Jan. 6, 2008
Palace hopes ceasefire will lead to formal peace talks
By GENALYN D. KABILING
President Arroyo ordered the military yesterday to observe a unilateral ceasefire with communist rebels from Dec. 16, 2007 to Jan. 6, 2008 in observance of the Christmas season.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20071214111526.html

6. The Daily Tribune

7. Abante
PINOY GAGAWING GUNGGONG
Nina BOYET JADULCO at ROSE MIRANDA
Sa klase ng panggigipit at panunupil na ginagawa ng pamahalaang Arroyo sa media na pangunahing impormante ng taumbayan, ipinahihiwatig na nais nitong gawing ‘gunggong’ o mangmang sa impormasyon at katotohanan ang sambayanang Filipino.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/dec1407/main.htm

8. Abante-Tonite
ABSUWELTO NI GUINGONA SAMPAL SA PALASYO
(Bernard Taguinod/Rey Marfil)
Isang matunog na sampal sa mukha ng administrasyon ni Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo ang pagkabasura ng rebellion case na isinampa ng gobyerno sa mga sibilyan na naipit sa Manila Peninsula standoff noong Nobyembre 29.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/dec1407/main.htm



9. Pilipino Star Ngayon
18 sibilyan lusot sa rebelyon
Ni Rose Tamayo-Tesoro
Friday, December 14, 2007
Inabswelto kahapon ng Makati Regional Trial Court (MRTC) ang 18 sibilyan na unang kinasuhan ng rebelyon kaugnay sa November 29 Manila Peninsula standoff.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2007121322

10. Journal
FREE!
By: Alvin Murcia
Rebellion raps vs bishop, 17 civilians junked
THE rebellion charges filed against 18 civilians, including former Vice President Teofisto Guingona, Jr. and Bishop Labayen were dismissed yesterday by a Makati City court.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-12-14&sec=1&aid=42429

11. Business World
RP growth likely to slow next year
FROM A POST-ASIAN CRISIS PEAK THIS YEAR, Philippine economic growth will likely slow in 2008, caught up by global financial market volatility and unlike regional peers who will either accelerate or maintain their economic pace, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) yesterday said.
http://bworldonline.com/BW121407/content.php?id=001

12. Business Mirror
P30-B asset sale eyed in 2008
CONSULTATIONS WITH I.M.F AFFIRM: AUCTIONS JUST A 'TEMPORARY FIX'
By Jun Vallecera
Reporter
GOVERNMENT targets for next year are only a third of its actual asset-sale proceeds this year, or only P29.5 billion of the P90 billion generated from year-to-date.
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/1214&152007/headlines01.html






II. POLITICAL
18 civilians freed; Trillanes, Lim charged
By DJ Yap
Inquirer
Last updated 01:06:00 12/14/2007
ONLY SEN. ANTONIO TRILLANES IV and the uniformed participants of the Nov. 29 failed revolt at the Peninsula Manila in Makati City will stand trial on charges of rebellion.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20071214-106738/18_civilians_freed_Trillanes_Lim_charged

Opposition senators vow: Razon won’t run power grid
By Gil C. Cabacungan Jr.
Inquirer
Last updated 01:05:00 12/14/2007
OPPOSITION SENATORS on Thursday warned that President Macapagal-Arroyo’s political ally, businessman Enrique Razon, and his Monte Oro consortium would have to pass through the eye of a needle before they could get the 25-year franchise to run the country’s power grids.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20071214-106737/Opposition_senators_vow_Razon_wont_run_power_grid

Miriam chides Teves for sale of PNOC-EDC
By Gil C. Cabacungan Jr.
Inquirer
Last updated 01:23:00 12/14/2007
SEN. MIRIAM DEFENSOR-SANTIAGO scored government officials led by Finance Secretary Margarito Teves for selling Philippine National Oil Co. Energy Development Corp. (PNOC-EDC) for a song and sacrificing the country’s future for short-term and personal gratification.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20071214-106746/Miriam_chides_Teves_for_sale_of_PNOC-EDC

Gonzalez ‘ready’ for Senate probe
Inquirer
Last updated 01:20:00 12/14/2007
IN THE AFTERNOON WHILE the Senate hearing was going on, Justice Secretary Raul Gonzalez went to see Senate President Manuel Villar at the latter’s office on his invitation.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20071214-106743/Gonzalez_ready_for_Senate_probe



Arroyo budget vs corruption ‘biggest ever’
Inquirer
Last updated 01:20:00 12/14/2007
IN MALACAÑANG, CABINET Secretary Ricardo Saludo appealed to politicians to raise the level of political discourse, and “focus attention not just on attacks against rivals, but also on actions for the nation.”
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20071214-106742/Arroyo_budget_vs_corruption_biggest_ever

Puno, et al reprimanded for snubbing probe
By Christina Mendez
Friday, December 14, 2007
In yet another move that could spark a new legislative-executive spat, three Cabinet officials, the Armed Forces chief of staff and the Philippine National Police (PNP) chief were reprimanded yesterday for failing to attend the Senate inquiry on the Peninsula hotel incident last Nov. 29.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071213109

Charges dropped vs civilians in Makati hotel siege
By Michael Punongbayan
Friday, December 14, 2007
A Makati City judge dismissed the rebellion charges filed against former vice president Teofisto Guingona and 17 other civilians for allegedly joining the failed uprising staged by Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV and Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim last Nov. 29.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071213112

Senators berate Teves, energy execs over PNOC-EDC sale
Friday, December 14, 2007
Finance Secretary Margarito Teves was dressed down yesterday by Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago after he and his staff failed to say how much the Philippine National Oil Co.-Energy Development Corp. (PNOC-EDC) is remitting to the national treasury.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071213114

Opinion
EDITORIAL — Transparency
Friday, December 14, 2007
The administration should not be surprised that the latest big-ticket government deal to be awarded to a private consortium is coming under heavy fire. Given the unresolved scandals of the past six months, every opportunity for fat commissions and other corrupt deals is being closely scrutinized by interested parties including the political opposition.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Opinion&p=49&type=2&sec=25


Senate reprimands no-show officials
BY DENNIS GADIL
THE Senate yesterday reprimanded Cabinet, military and PNP officials who failed to attend its probe on the Manila Peninsula standoff, particularly the arrest of about 50 media practitioners who covered the incident.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/dec14/news2.htm

Palace: Corruption survey biased
BY REGINA BENGCO
MALACAÑANG yesterday branded as "biased" and "purely for propaganda" the recent Pulse Asia survey that tagged President Arroyo as the most corrupt president in recent history, even as its officials frantically instituted damage control.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/dec14/news3.htm



December 15, 2007 Mind Bullet Inc.
I.BANNER STORIES
1. Philippine Daily Inquirer
'A JURASSIC LEGAL STEP'
Anti-Subversion Law's revival slammed
Called 'throwback to martial law'
By Christian V. Esguerra, Gil C. Cabacungan Jr.
Inquirer
Last updated 00:57:00 12/15/2007
MANILA, Philippines--ANGER and outrage met President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo's announcement on Thursday that she was prepared to support the planned revival of the long-dead Anti-Subversion Law to subdue the communist insurgency.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20071215-106986/Anti-Subversion_Laws_revival_slammed

2. The Philippine Star
POEA overcharging OFW fees, P51 to $1
By Mayen Jaymalin
Saturday, December 15, 2007
The Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) has been overcharging overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), collecting a $25 membership fee from them based on an exchange rate of P51 to $1.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071214165

3. Manila Times
Suspend VAT on oil–Roxas
Initiative to cushion impact of skyrocketing oil prices – senator
By Sammy Martin, Correspondent
A senator is recommending for government to suspend for about six months the12-percent value-added tax (VAT) on petroleum products to cushion the impact of skyrocketing oil prices.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/dec/15/yehey/top_stories/20071215top1.html

4. Malaya
‘What’s she up to? Stay beyond ’10?’ Gloria support for revival of anti-subversion law assailed
BY WENDELL VIGILIA
A MOVE to revive the anti-subversion law is part of President Arroyo’s "ominous plan to extend her stay in power," Rep. Teodoro Casiño said yesterday as he warned of massive rallies against the plan.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/dec15/news1.htm

5. Manila Bulletin
Elections in 370 barangays today
Comelec prepared for smooth & peaceful polls
Borra assures police assistance in areas of concern
By E. T. SUAREZ
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) will hold special elections today in 370 barangays in various parts of the country where no elections were held for barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) officials last Oct. 29 due to rampant and widespread harassment of members of the Board of Election Tellers (BET) and the Barangay Board of Canvassers.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20071215111646.html

6. The Daily Tribune
Freed ‘rebels’ vow to sue cops for arrest, detention
12/15/2007
Civilians who were at the Manila Peninsula while the alleged rebellion was ongoing, whom police accused of being part of the rebellion and who were arrested, cuffed and detained at the Camp Crame custodial center but ordered freed by Makati City Regional Trial Court Judge Elmo Almeda on grounds of lack of probable cause, yesterday vowed to sue the Philippine National Police (PNP) for their arrest and detention.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071215hed1.html

7. Abante
DIKTADURYA IPINOPORMA
Nina BOYET JADULCO, BERNARD TA-GUINOD, JULIET DE LOZA, IRISH ANN CRUZ at ROSE MIRANDA
Mapa-oposisyon o kapanalig ni Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo ay hindi pabor sa pagbuhay sa Anti-Subversion Law (ASL) sa pangambang ipoporma lamang nito ang isang bagong diktadurya oras na mailusot.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/dec1507/main.htm


8. Abante-Tonite
150 PINAY RECRUITS PAPUNTANG MALAYSIA PINAHAHARANG
(Bernard Taguinod)
Inalerto kahapon ni CIBAC party-list Rep. Joel Villanueva ang Bureau of Immigration and Deportation (BID) at iba pang law enforcement agencies sa bansa upang harangin ang may 150 Filipina na gagawing prostitutes sa Malaysia.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/dec1507/main.htm

9. Pilipino Star Ngayon
Arbitrary detention vs PNP
Ni Joy Cantos
Saturday, December 15, 2007
Bubuweltahan nina running priest Fr. Robert Reyes at mga kasamahan nitong sibilyan ng kasong arbitrary detention ang Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) matapos silang arestuhin at ikulong ng mahigit 2 linggo sa PNP Custodial Center sa Camp Crame kaugnay ng standoff sa Manila Peninsula Hotel sa Makati City noong Nobyembre 29.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2007121466

10. Journal
XMAS TERROR THREAT
By: Fernando M. Cariaso
Abu Sayyaf set fresh kidnappings, attacks this December -- NICA
CASH-STRAPPED, the terrorist Abu Sayyaf Group is again gearing up to kidnap foreigners including US servicemen stationed in Mindanao and launch fresh terror attacks, according to Philippine National Police chief Director General Avelino I. Razon, Jr. who cited a report by the Special Monitoring Committee of the National Intelligence Coordinating Agency.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-12-15&sec=1&aid=42527

11. Business World
BY MARIA KRISTINA C. CONTI, Reporter
Regulator okays higher power transmission charges
The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) has approved increases in transmission charges averaging 9.07 centavos per kilowatt-hour (kWh) for all customers of the National Transmission Corp. (Transco).
http://bworldonline.com/BW121507/content.php?id=001


12. Business Mirror
P30-B asset sale eyed in 2008
CONSULTATIONS WITH I.M.F AFFIRM: AUCTIONS JUST A 'TEMPORARY FIX'
By Jun Vallecera
Reporter
GOVERNMENT targets for next year are only a third of its actual asset-sale proceeds this year, or only P29.5 billion of the P90 billion generated from year-to-date.
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/1214&152007/headlines01.html

II. POLITICAL
Arroyo renews call for passage of Cheaper Medicines measure
By Lira Dalangin-Fernandez
INQUIRER.net
Last updated 16:49:00 12/14/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo made another pitch for the passage of the Cheaper Medicines Bill, even as the House of Representatives vowed to finish deliberations on the measure before Congress goes on Christmas break on December 21.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20071214-106882/Arroyo_renews_call_for_passage_of_Cheaper_Medicines_measure

Senators oppose revival of Anti-Subversion Law
By Veronica Uy
INQUIRER.net
Last updated 14:50:00 12/14/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- At least four senators -- administration and opposition -- voiced their opposition Friday to the proposed revival of the Anti-Subversion Law.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20071214-106823/Senators_oppose_revival_of_Anti-Subversion_Law

Santiago to Madrigal: Prove Arroyo pal behind Transco bid
Transco chief explains absence in Senate hearings
By Veronica Uy
INQUIRER.net
Last updated 13:42:00 12/14/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- Senator Ana Consuelo Madrigal should substantiate her charge that business tycoon and close friend of the First Family Enrique Razon ws behind the company that won the contract to operate the National Transmission Corp. (Transco), Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago said Friday.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20071214-106818/Santiago_to_Madrigal_Prove_Arroyo_pal_behind_Transco_bid

House asked to clarify blocking of cheap meds bill
Saturday, December 15, 2007
Malacañang wants the House leadership to explain why one of its allies in Congress is blocking the passage of the Cheaper Medicine Act.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071214170

Senators hit GMA proposal to reinstate anti-subversion law
By Christina Mendez
Saturday, December 15, 2007
Senators vowed to block efforts from Malacañang and the House of Representatives to resurrect the Anti-Subversion Law in an effort to end the 38-year old insurgency waged by the communist New People’s Army (NPA)
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071214172

Palace: No need to attend Senate hearing on siege
By Marvin Sy
Saturday, December 15, 2007
There is no need for Cabinet and top police officials to appear before the Senate inquiry on the Peninsula Manila siege, a top Malacañang official said yesterday.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071214178
.
Freeze on VAT on oil sought
BY DENNIS GADIL
SEN. Manuel "Mar" Roxas II yesterday sought a six-month suspension on the collection of value-added tax (VAT) on oil to stem the rise in prices of petroleum products and buy time for the Senate to probe oil companies for alleged overpricing or collusion.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/dec15/news6.htm

7 senators slam Anti-Subversion Law revival
Mario B. Casayuran
Seven senators expressed strong objection yesterday against the plan to revive the Anti-Subversion Law. They are Senate President Manny Villar, Senators Joker Arroyo, Miriam Defensor Santiago, Francis Pangilinan, Aquilino Pimentel Jr., Mar Roxas, and Loren Legarda.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20071215111647.html

Palace to expand coverage of proposed Anti-Subversion Law
Genalyn D. Kabiling
The proposed revival of the Anti-Subversion Law should cover not only communist rebels but also groups involved in destabilization, Malacañang said yesterday.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20071215111651.html

Senate junks Anti-Subversion Law revival
12/15/2007
The repressive Anti-Subversion Law is dead and can no longer be resus-citated despite moves by President Arroyo and her military and police to revive the dead law.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071215hed2.html

Malacañang scoffs at Senate’s contempt threat
12/15/2007
Malacañang yesterday belittled the Senate’s threat to file contempt charges against officials of the Executive Department who snubbed the chamber’s joint committee investigation into the arrest of journalists during the Manila Peninsula hotel standoff.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071215hed5.html



December 16, 2007 Mind Bullet Inc.
I.BANNER STORIES
1. Philippine Daily Inquirer
Swimmer Molina is MVP, gives luster to dull RP finish
By Musong R. Castillo
Inquirer
Last updated 00:20:00 12/16/2007
NAKHON RATCHASIMA, Thailand--He made a big splash in the pool and generated the biggest waves in the entire 24th Southeast Asian Games.
http://sports.inquirer.net/inquirersports/inquirersports/view/20071216-107109/Swimmer_Molina_is_MVP_gives_luster_to_dull_RP_finish
.
2. The Philippine Star
Jalosjos freed today
By Rhodina Villanueva
Sunday, December 16, 2007
Convicted child rapist and former Zamboanga del Norte congressman Romeo Jalosjos will be home for Christmas, as he walks out of the New Bilibid Prisons (NBP) today after serving just over 13 years of his double-life sentence.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=2007121594

3. Manila Times
GRP-Muslim rebels’ unity talks to continue
By Al Jacinto, Correspondent
Rival Muslim factions in the Philippines have agreed to open unity talks on the urging of Libyan leader Moamer Kadhafi’s eldest son, the government said Saturday.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/dec/16/yehey/metro/20071216met1.html

4. Malaya

5. Manila Bulletin

6. The Daily Tribune
King Carlos asked to rectify error honoring Gloria on HR
12/16/2007
A local human rights group had written the King of Spain yesterday asking the monarch to reconsider plauditson human rights given to President Arroyo last Dec. 5 during a state visit.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071216hed1.html

7. Abante
GMA WALA SA SARILI
(BJadulco/IACruz/JdeLoza/NMarasigan/GVelasco)
Nawawala sa sarili si Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo dahil sa magkasalungat na mga polisiyang ipinatutupad nito patungkol sa mga rebeldeng komunista.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/dec1607/main.htm

8. Abante-Tonite
PASAHERO HINOLDAP SA TAXI, PINAG-WITHDRAW PA SA ATM
(Irwin Corpuz)
Nagbabala kahapon ang pulisya sa mga sumasakay ng taxi na maging maingat at alerto sa lahat ng pagkakataon laban sa mga naglipanang masasamang elemento na maaaring magsamantala ngayong yuletide season.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/dec1607/main.htm

9. Pilipino Star Ngayon
Pananakit sa anak bawal
Ni Malou Escudero
Sunday, December 16, 2007
Bad news sa mga magulang na namamalo, nangungurot, namimingot at iba pang uri ng pananakit sa kanilang mga anak dahil hindi na nila ito maaaring gawin sa sandaling pumasa ang isang panukalang batas na isinulong sa Senado.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2007121554

10. Journal
CEASEFIRE
By: Jun Icban-Legaspi
AFP guns fall silent as unilateral truce starts
THE unilateral ceasefire declared by President Macapagal-Arroyo took effect at midnight.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-12-16&sec=1&aid=42639

11. Business World

12. Business Mirror

II. POLITICAL
Convicted rapist Jalosjos to be freed Sunday--prisons chief
Inquirer
Last updated 00:10:00 12/16/2007
MANILA, Philippines--IF THINGS go as planned, convicted former congressman Romeo Jalosjos will be released Sunday from the New Bilibid Prisons in Muntinlupa City.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20071216-107108/Convicted_rapist_Jalosjos_to_be_freed_Sunday--prisons_chief

Garcia says cheaper meds bill a ‘useless placebo’
By Delon Porcalla
Sunday, December 16, 2007
Cebu Rep. Pablo Garcia said yesterday the Cheaper Medicine Bill being tackled at the House of Representatives “is not at all a cure to the ailment of high medicine prices in the country, but a useless placebo made to look like medicine.”
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071215113

‘No need to panic over revival of anti-subversion law’
By Marvin Sy
Sunday, December 16, 2007
Malacañang said yesterday that there was no need to panic over the proposed revival of the Anti-Subversion Law, as President Arroyo would let Congress decide on the fate of the proposal.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071215120

Senate to probe illegal human organ trade
By Aurea Calica
Sunday, December 16, 2007
The Senate is seeking to stop the rise of the illegal human organ trade in the Philippines, which is becoming one of the top suppliers of kidneys to First World countries like the United States, Canada and Great Britain.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071215129

Roxas bats for fast action to stop rising peso, oil prices
Rather than reviving the anti-subversion law and expanding its coverage, the administration should focus its attention on pressing concerns like the economic fall-out that may arise from high oil prices and a stronger peso.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/dec/16/yehey/metro/20071216met2.html

Christmas wish ni Erap kay GMA: Maging mabuti ka na sa masang Pinoy
By: Marlon Purificacion
MAGPAKABUTI ka na sa masang Pinoy!
Ito ang sinabi kahapon ni dating pangulong Joseph Estrada bilang Christmas wish kay Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-12-16&sec=1&aid=42605

DoE chief can’t be taken out of post — Palace lawyer
12/16/2007
Even if his appointment to the post is eventually rejected by the Commission on Appointments (CA), with two senator-members of the bicameral body having shown inclination toward thumbing it down, Energy Secretary Angel Reyes cannot be taken out of his post because President Arroyo would just keep reappointing him to the position, the top lawyer of Malacañang yesterday said.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071216hed6.html



DECEMBER 17, 2007
I.BANNER STORIES

1. PHILIPPINE DAILY INQUIRER
Arroyo thwarts Jalosjos release
By Christine Avendaño, DJ Yap, Bert Laput, Richel Umel
Inquirer, Mindanao Bureau
Last updated 22:49:00 12/16/2007

Arroyo thwarts Jalosjos release
JUST AFTER MIDNIGHT Saturday, bursts of fireworks exploded over Dapitan City in Zamboanga del Norte on news that one of its sons -- Prisoner N98P-0748 -- was finally coming home.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20071216-107207/Arroyo_thwarts_Jalosjos_release

2. PHILIPPINE STAR
Malacañang stops release of Jalosjos
By Paolo Romero
Monday, December 17, 2007
Malacañang stopped yesterday the release of convicted child rapist and former Zamboanga del Norte congressman Romeo Jalosjos even as there were persistent reports that the controversial inmate had already been freed from the National Bilibid Prisons (NBP).
http://philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=2007121697
3. MANILA TIMES

4. MALAYA

5. MANILA BULLETIN

6. THE DAILY TRIBUNE
Salapuddin linked to House bomb blast
11/17/2007
The Philippine government is making a last ditch effort to save the life of Marilou Ranario, the Filipino worker on death row in Kuwait, before the Kuwaiti Court hands down its decision on Dec. 27.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071117hed1.html

7. ABANTE
GMA WALA SA SARILI

(BJadulco/IACruz/JdeLoza/NMarasigan/GVelasco)

Nawawala sa sarili si Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo dahil sa magkasalungat na mga polisiyang ipinatutupad nito patungkol sa mga rebeldeng komunista.
http://abante.com.ph/issue/dec1607/main.htm

8. ABANTE-TONITE

9. PILIPINO STAR NGAYON
G-2 binomba talaga!
Ni Butch Quejada
Monday, December 17, 2007
Nagpahayag ng pani­niwala si Muntinlupa Rep. Ruffy Biazon na talagang binomba ang Glorietta 2 mall sa Makati City, tali­was sa sinasabi ng Philippine National Police (PNP) na ang pag­sabog ay bunga umano ng gas explosion.
http://philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2007121663

10. JOURNAL
HOLD IT!
By: Raul S. Beltran with Raul Beltran
Top prison official says Jalosjos can’t leave jail yet
IS he or is he not a free man?
Confusion reigned as former lawmaker Romeo Jalosjos was reported to have been released from the national penitentiary after serving 13 years of his double life sentence for statutory rape.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-12-17&sec=1&aid=42714

11. BUSINESS WORLD
Growth goals raised by gov’t
THE GOVERNMENT HAS OFFICIALLY RAISED economic growth targets for this year and the next after the economy accelerated by a surprising 7.1% in three quarters ending September.
http://bworldonline.com/BW121707/content.php?id=001

12. BUSINESS MIRROR

II. POLITICAL
I’m not opposed to cheaper medicines bill -- Rep. Garcia
CEBU Congressman Pablo Garcia (Kampi) yesterday denied that he was opposed to providing cheaper medicines to the people, saying that his intention was to improve the bill and make it “more meaningful and effective.”
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-12-17&sec=1&aid=42694

Revival of anti-subversion act may backfire -- Intengan
REVIVING the anti-subversion act at this time would not greatly help the government in its campaign to end the communist insurgency, according to Jesuit priest Fr. Romeo Intengan.
http://www.journal.com..ph/index.php?issue=2007-12-17&sec=4&aid=42696