December 2-9, 2007

December 2, 2007 Mind Bullet Inc.
I.BANNER STORIES

1. Philippine Daily Inquirer
P1M reward for Faeldon capture
By Alcuin Papa, Cynthia Balana
Inquirer
Last updated 11:58pm (Mla time) 12/01/2007
MANILA, Philippines--Anyone with information leading to the capture of a renegade Marine officer involved in the Nov. 29 takeover of portions of the Peninsula Manila hotel in Makati City can expect to become a millionaire.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=104261

2. The Philippine Star
Trillanes, Guingona face rebellion raps

By Cecille Suerte Felipe

Sunday, December 2, 2007
After a four-hour inquest that lasted past midnight, police filed rebellion and inciting-to-rebellion charges against Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV, former Army Scout Rangers chief Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim, former Vice President Teofisto Guingona Jr. and 48 others in connection with the short-lived takeover of the Peninsula Manila hotel last Thursday.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=2007120165

3. Manila Times
Slower growth, higher prices
By Darwin Amojelar
Historically, very high oil prices have not yet caused too much harm to the Philippine economy—from the macroeconomic perspective. This is thanks to the strength of the Philippine peso, caused by unceasingly increasing remittances from OFWs and the current weakness of the US dollar
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/dec/02/yehey/top_stories/20071202top1.html
4. Malaya

5. Manila Bulletin

Advent Seasons Begins today
By: Christina Hermoso
The season of eager anticipation and preparation for the celebration of the Nativity of Christ officially begins today as the Catholic Church observes the First Sunday of Advent, four weeks before Christmas.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20071202110372.html


6. The Daily Tribune
Opposition to block Trillanes expulsion
2007/12/02
The Arroyo administration will likely have a dose of its own medicine as opposition senators, who dominate the chamber, pledged yesterday to kill a move to suspend or expel Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV who led a takeover of the Manila Peninsula hotel to demand President Arroyo’s resignation.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/

7. Abante
Binay Iniipit na!
Nina ARMIDA RICO at NOEL ABUEL
Inatasan kahapon ni Local Government Sec. Ronaldo Puno si Makati City Mayor Jejomar Binay na magsumite sa kanya ng report kung bakit hindi agad naiulat sa lokal na pamahalaan ng lungsod ang mga pangyayari noong Huwebes mula sa pagwo-walkout sa korte hanggang sa pagkubkob sa Manila Peninsula ng grupo nina Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV at Gen. Danilo Lim.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/dec0207/main.htm

8. Abante-Tonite
OPLAN CHACHA IKINASA NA
Anumang araw mula ngayon nakatakda na umanong simulan ng Malacañang ang kanilang kampanya para buhayin ang pag-amyenda sa Saligang Batas subalit sa pagkakataong ito itsapuwera na sina dating Pangulong Fidel V. Ramos at House Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr. sa isusulong na Charter Change (ChaCha).
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/dec0207/main.htm
9. Pilipino Star Ngayon
Trillanes sinapak ng PNP General

Ni Joy Cantos

Nakatikim umano ng suntok si Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV mula sa isang heneral ng Philippine National Police (PNP) ng ito’y maaresto matapos kubkubin ang Manila Pe¬nin¬sula sa Makati City nitong Huwebes.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2007120189

10. Journal
REWARD
P 1M offeres for capture of Trillanes cohort renegade Marine Nicanor Faeldon
By: Alfred Dalizon
THE government yesterday offered a P1 million reward for the capture of renegade Marine Captain Nicanor Faeldon, a Magdalo officer who managed to slip past authorities during the shortlived Manila Peninsula siege last Thursday.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-12-02&sec=1&aid=40995

11. Business World
Curfew ordered as plot fails
Courtroom walkout leads to hotel storming, journalists’ arrests
THE GOVERNMENT YESTERDAY MOVED TO CRUSH yet another attempt to overthrow the Arroyo administration as what first seemed a farcical plot led to the storming of a Makati hotel, the arrests of journalists covering the event, and a declaration of a curfew in Metro Manila and neighboring regions.
http://www.bworldonline.com/BW113007/content.php?id=001

12. Business Mirror
Standoff spurs curfew, arrests
BUSINESS DEPLORES HOTEL SIEGE WITH LIM, TRILLANES; BUT MARKET SHRUGS IT OFF
By Paul Atienza
IN scenes reminiscent of the 1989 takeover by putschists of Makati’s central business district and the 2003 Oakwood Mutiny, a soldier-senator and a general held court Thursday with rebel soldiers for six hours at the Manila Peninsula Hotel, demanding the resignation of President Arroyo and reforms in the government.
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/1130&012007/headlines01.html

II. POLITICAL
Guingona, 3 pa pinalaya muna

Sunday, December 2, 2007
Dahil naman sa mga tinataglay na sakit, pina¬laya muna para ma¬ka¬pagpagamot sina ex-VP Guingona, Bishop La¬bayen, Nemenzo at Or¬teza.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2007120190


Police director ng ARMM, ipatatawag ng Comelec
Ipatatawag ng Commission on Elections (Comelec) si Philippine National Police-Autonomous Region for Muslim Mindanao Provincial Director, Chief Supt. Joel Goltiao upang magpali¬ wanag sa patuloy na pag¬kabigo nito na madakip si dating Maguindanao provincial election supervisor (PES) Atty. Lintang Bedol.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2007120194
Palace: No state of emergency, situation under control
Mia Gonzales
Malacañang said on Thursday that it will not declare a state of emergency following what it merely called a “situation” in a luxury hotel in Makati City where Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV and Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim tried to drum up public support for President Arroyo’s ouster.
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/1130&012007/headlines02.html

GMA slams ‘desperados’
By: Efren Montano
PRESIDENT Macapagal-Arroyo yesterday referred to the rebels who made another attempt Thursday to oust her as “desperados” who were out of touch with the Filipino people who want stability and progress.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-12-02&sec=1&aid=41004

Coup plots to continue- Beltran
By: Jester P. Manalastas
DESTABILIZATION and uprisings will continue unless the Arroyo government stops graft and corruption, bribery and pay-offs, Anakpawis Rep. Crispin Beltran warned yesterday.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-12-02&sec=1&aid=41010

Oposisyon na sangkot sa Makati standoff pinakakasuhan ni Nene
By: Marlon Purificacion
HINAMON kahapon ni Senate Mino-rity Leader Aquilino Pimentel Jr., ang administrasyong Arroyo na pangala-nan at kasuhan ang miyembro ng oposisyon na diumano’y kasabwat ni Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV sa planong paglunsad ng ika-apat na People Power sa bansa.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-12-02&sec=4&aid=40972

Cracks beneath the dance floor
WHAT a crazy day. As the government was announcing the third-quarter GDP figures, indicating still decent growth despite the economy’s unhealthy reliance on migrant-labor remittances, the country’s central business district in Makati City was hounded by the specter of past military adventurism.
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/1130&012007/opinion01.html

Planting Evidence Again
12/02/2007
As long as the police leaders continue to use the same tack in “gathering” evidence, in this case, to “prove” a wide coup plot conspiracy, they are just going to slide further down on their almost zero credibility.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/commentary/20071202com2.html

Senate to resolve Sentosa case, vows Jinggoy
12/02/2007
The Senate will leave no stone unturned to get to the bottom of the complaints involving the illegal recruitment, misrepresentation and contract substitution filed by 26 Filipino professional health workers against a Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA)-licensed Sentosa recruitment agency.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071202hed5.html

PNP probes complicity of media
By Jaime Laude
Sunday, December 2, 2007
Even as President Arroyo regretted the detention of journalists who covered last Thursday’s siege at a hotel in Makati City, police justified the move yesterday, saying some of the journalists could have helped Marine Capt. Nicanor Faeldon escape.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=2007120166


Opposition senators won’t expel Trillanes
By Aurea Calica
Sunday, December 2, 2007
Opposition senators are not inclined to support the proposal to expel Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV for the failed rebellion he staged with other soldiers at the Peninsula Manila in Makati City last Thursday.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=2007120181

JDV agrees with Trillanes, says gov’t needs ‘reforms at the top’
By Delon Porcalla
Sunday, December 2, 2007
Opposition Sen. Antonio Trillanes has found a rather unlikely ally in Speaker Jose de Venecia – whose ties with President Arroyo have been strained severely – after the House leader agreed that there should be “reforms at the top.”
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=2007120179
RP to lag behind Asian neighbors if Senate junks JPEPA – Favila
By Ma. Elisa P. Osorio
Sunday, December 2, 2007
The Philippines will be left behind by its neighbors in Asia if the Senate does not ratify the Japan Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (JPEPA), Trade Secretary Peter B. Favila said.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Business&p=49&type=2&sec=27&aid=2007120121


Senator-turned-thug
BABE’S EYE VIEW

By Babe Romualdez
The swift action by government forces to end the Manila Pen standoff was welcomed by almost all segments of society particularly the business sector. As pointed out to me by Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro, GMA gave them the instructions to act decisively. Prolonging the agony would have been a disaster for the country.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Opinion&p=49&type=2&sec=25&aid=20071201118

JDV would have gov’t pay for political campaigns

By Norman Bordadora
Inquirer
Last updated 02:18am (Mla time) 12/02/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- Speaker Jose De Venecia will ask President Macapagal-Arroyo to certify as urgent a bill setting aside government funds to subsidize political parties and keep politicians from having to approach vested individuals and groups for financial support.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=104295


December 3, 2007 Mind Bullet Inc.
I.BANNER STORIES

1. Philippine Daily Inquirer
Nonito, ‘Boom Boom’ punish foes
Inquirer
Last updated 01:55am (Mla time) 12/03/2007
MASHANTUCKET, CONNECTICUT -- Filipino boxing star Nonito Donaire stopped Mexico’s Luis Maldonado in the eighth round here on Saturday to keep the International Boxing Federation flyweight crown.
http://sports.inquirer.net/inquirersports/inquirersports/view_article.php?article_id=104463

2. The Philippine Star
Let SC settle Trillanes’ Senate status – Villar
By Christina Mendez
Monday, December 3, 2007
Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV is now under the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court since he has a pending petition to allow him to perform his duties as a senator, according to Senate President Manuel Villar Jr.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071202134

3. Manila Times
Zero tariff on diesel products
By Katrina Mennen A. Valdez, Reporter
In a move to cushion the negative impact of the oil price increase in the world market, the government has decided to bring down the tariff on some petroleum products.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/dec/03/yehey/top_stories/20071203top1.html



4. Malaya
GMA: No mercy for ‘Pen 50’ Says rule of lawmust be upheld
BY JOCELYN MONTEMAYOR
PRESIDENT Arroyo has ordered officials, particularly from the security and defense sectors, to remain vigilant and to continue to "flush out" remaining threats to public safety and security.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/dec03/news1.htm

5. Manila Bulletin


6. The Daily Tribune
Palace seeks full punishment; Economic sabotage raps eyed
By Sherwin C. Olaes and Angie M. Rosales
12/03/2007
Malacañang yesterday pursued moves for extreme penalties on Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV, including his possible expulsion from the Senate, saying letting the leader of the botched Manila Peninsula uprising go unpunished “would be a mockery of justice.”
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071203hed1.html

7. Abante
MEDIA IKAKADENA NI GLORIA!
Nina ROSE MIRANDA, ERALYN PRADO, ARMIDA RICO, GRACE VELASCO, JETHRO SINOCRUZ at NOEL ABUEL
nspirasyon ngayon ng pamahalaang Arroyo ang mapanikil na polisiya ng Singapore sa media at sa paglagda nito ng kasunduan sa naturang bansa ay pinangangambahang sinelyuhan na ang balak na pagkadena sa malayang pamamahayag sa Pilipinas.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/dec0307/main.htm

8. Abante-Tonite
PAGSIBAK KAY TRILLANES HINARANG
Ni Rey Marfil
Kung walang suportang nakuha si Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV nang magmartsa ito sa Makati at inokupahan ang Manila Peninsula, wala rin namang suportang nakuha sa Senado ang planong pagpapasibak sa nagrebeldeng senador.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/dec0307/main.htm

9. Pilipino Star Ngayon
Illegal arrest isasampa ngayon: Media vs PNP
Ni Danilo Garcia
Monday, December 3, 2007

Nakatakdang sampahan ng kaso ng National Press Club ang Philippine National Police (PNP) sa Commission on Human Rights (CHR) dahil sa umano’y iligal na pag-aresto sa mga miyembro ng media sa naganap na “standoff” sa Manila Peninsula, Makati City nitong nakalipas na Huwebes.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2007120263

10. Journal
‘TRILLANES A FOOL’
By: Bernadette E. Tamayo
Enrile slams mutineer for making a fool of himself with half-baked coup try

AT least three senators are cool to the resolution of Sen.Miriam Defensor-Santiago calling for the suspension or even expulsion of Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV from the Upper Chamber for leading another failed coup attempt Friday.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-12-03&sec=1&aid=41090


11. Business World
Political noise threatens reforms
‘Fiscal consolidation may lose some steam’
PHILIPPINE FINANCIAL MARKETS may shrug off the latest coup attempt but rising political noise could hold up fiscal reforms and jeopardize the country’s bid for sustainable economic growth, British banking giant HSBC warned over the weekend.
http://www.bworld.com.ph/BW120307/content.php?id=001

12. Business Mirror
P6.5B lost from tax cases
By Cai U. Ordinario
Reporter
THE national government is losing a total of P6.5 billion in taxes due to 87 tax-evasion cases now in various stages of prosecution at the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Court of Tax Appeals (CTA), according to the finance department.
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/12032007/headlines01.html

II. POLITICAL
Senate restores RP debt payments
By Dona Pazzibugan
Inquirer
Last updated 05:13am (Mla time) 12/03/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- The Senate has restored P12.1 billion to debt interest payments in its version of the P1.227-trillion 2008 national budget, after the House of Representatives had slashed P17.8 billion for the interest payments in its version of the appropriations bill.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=104471

De Venecia: Revolt no cause for alarm
By Christian V. Esguerra, Gil C. Cabacungan Jr.
Inquirer
Last updated 05:25am (Mla time) 12/03/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- Where was speaker Jose de Venecia when President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo was facing yet another threat from rebel soldiers?
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=104473

Roxas to file resolution vs police treatment of media during hotel siege
By Christina Mendez
Monday, December 3, 2007
Sen. Manuel Roxas II will file a Senate resolution today denouncing the treatment by authorities of local and foreign journalists who covered the standoff at the Peninsula Hotel last Thursday in Makati City.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071202148

Army: Trillanes won’t get troops’ support
By James Mananghaya
Monday, December 3, 2007
The Army has assured that efforts to destabilize the government would not get widespread support from the troops, following an assessment made on the ranks in the aftermath of the Peninsula Manila Hotel takeover.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071202149

Fate of Trillanes, 50 others known today
By Mike Frialde And Cecille Suerte Felipe
Monday, December 3, 2007
Government prosecutors are expected to release a resolution today on the rebellion and inciting-to-rebellion charges against Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV, Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim, former Vice President Teofisto Guingona and 48 others in connection with last Thursday’s short-lived takeover of the Peninsula Manila hotel.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071202150

JDV tells foreign parliamentarians: I knew coup would fail
By Delon Porcalla
Monday, December 3, 2007

At the height of the Nov. 29 siege at the Peninsula Hotel in Makati City by rebel soldiers, Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr. assured some 160 foreign parliamentarians, including United Nations officials that the latest coup attempt would fizzle out.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071202151

RP, S’pore sign media collaboration pact
By Paolo Romero
Monday, December 3, 2007
The Philippines and Singapore have entered into agreement to promote bilateral collaboration in the fields of media policy and information exchange, training and human resource development, co-production and mutual exchanges, Malacañang said yesterday.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071202152

JDV refutes ethical charge over legislative franchise of son’s firm
By Delon Porcalla
Monday, December 3, 2007
Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr. sought to dismiss the unethical conduct complaint filed by lawyer Roel Pulido in claiming the allegations made against him took place before the present Congress.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071202153

Senate asked to address country’s illegitimate debts
A group of public finance watchdogs, the Freedom from Debt Coalition (FDC), expresses serious disappointment over the decision of Senate Committee on Finance Chairman Sen. Juan Ponce Enrile to restore P12.1 billion worth of repayments for questionable loans.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/dec/03/yehey/metro/20071203met3.html

Senate vows to restore judiciary budget
By Sammy Martin, Correspondent
Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel Jr. will support the judiciary’s appeal to restore the P4-billion cut by the House of Representatives from the proposed P14.4-billion budget of the judicial branch for next year.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/dec/03/yehey/metro/20071203met4.html

Local govts can tax contractors of govt projects
By Jefferson Antiporda, Reporter
LOCAL government units (LGUs) can levy taxes on contractors undertaking government infrastructure projects, said Quezon City Treasurer Victor B. Endriga.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/dec/03/yehey/metro/20071203met5.html


Oldest media organization files raps vs. PNP
By Sammy Martin, Correspondent
THE oldest media organization in the country will file charges against members of the Philippine National Police (PNP) who arrested journalists and technical crewmen during a six-hour standoff at the Manila Peninsula Hotel on Thursday.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/dec/03/yehey/metro/20071203met6.html

ABS-CBN should sue PNP, AFP
As of this writing ABS-CBN was reporting that it was considering filing charges against officials who detained media workers immediately after the Manila Pen incident. Not a few quarters are hoping the network would make good on its threat.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/dec/03/yehey/opinion/20071203opi2.html

Senate must investigate Trillanes
Sen. Miriam Defensor Santiago is right—the Senate Committee on Ethics must investigate Sen. Antonio Trillanes 4th for taking over the Manila Peninsula in the company of armed men and calling for the resignation of President Arroyo. To do otherwise would give the impression that senators are a cut above other officials who could not be touched even by their own colleagues.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/dec/03/yehey/opinion/20071203opi6.html

Senate, House to probe detention of media men
THE Senate and House are set to conduct inquiries on what was called the "high-handed" treatment of media practitioners who covered last week’s Manila Peninsula incident.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/dec03/news4.htm

Nene to work for restoration of judiciary’s budget cut
SENATE minority leader Aqui-lino Pimentel Jr. yesterday said he would push for the restoration in the Senate version of the proposed national budget the P4 billion cut made by the Housein the judi-ciary’s 2008 budget.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/dec03/metro1.htm

Palace blames Trillanes for LPG price hike
By Sherwin C. Olaes and Angie M. Rosales
12/03/2007
Amid the public uproar over the successive hikes in the prices of petroleum products imposed by oil companies, which include that of liquified petroleum gas (LPG), Malacañang yesterday passed the buck as it laid the blame on former Navy Capt. and now Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV, whom it accused of making life harder for the poor Filipino masses by inflicting further damage on the economy when he took over the Manila Peninsula hotel last Thursday and demanded the resignation of President Arroyo.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071203hed2.html

Congress to grill PNP on Pen newsmen arrest
By Gerry Baldo, Angie M. Rosales, Allan A. Bergonia
12/03/2007
The Senate and the House of Representatives will hold separate inquiries into what legislators called a high-handed manner by which government forces treated journalists during an assault on the Manila Peninsula to flush out the group of Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV and Army Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim who staged a failed mutiny.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071203hed5.html

LGUs can levy taxes on contractors of gov’t projects — QC treasurer
12/03/2007
Local government units (LGUs) have the authority to levy taxes on contractors undertaking government infrastructure projects.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/metro/20071203met3.html

Oplan ChaCha sinupalpal
(Rey Marfil)
Kahit ilan pang ‘oplan’ ang ilunsad ng Malacañang, walang kalalagyan sa Mataas na Kapulungan ng Kongreso ang pagsusulong sa pagretoke ng Konstitusyon o Charter Change (ChaCha) na naglalayong palawigin ang termino ni Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo bago sumapit ang 2010 national election.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/dec0307/main.htm

Senado umaksyon sa media arrest
(Rey Marfil)
Hindi matanggap ni Sen. Mar Roxas ang sablay na pagtrato ng Philippine National Police (PNP) sa mga miyembro ng media sa naganap na Manila Peninsula standoff kaya magpapatawag ito ng imbestigasyon para imbestigahan ang naturang insidente.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/dec0307/main.htm

Binay dumistansya kay Trillanes
(Tina Mendoza)
Agad nilinaw ni Makati City Mayor at United Opposition President Jejomar Binay na walang kinalaman ang oposisyon sa hakbang na ginawa ng grupo ni Sen. Antonio Trillanes sa Manila Peninsula kasabay ng pagsasabi na hindi sila makikipagsabwatan sa anumang plano ng Magdalo Group.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/dec0307/main.htm

Presyo ng LPG tataas pa -- Palasyo
(Rose Miranda)
Sinabi kahapon ng Malacañang na hindi na mapipigilan ang pagtaaas sa presyo ng Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG) dahil sa patuloy na oil price hike sa world market.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/dec0307/main.htm

Restore budget cut — Nene
SENATE Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel, Jr. has backed the judiciary’s appeal to restore the P4 billion that was cut by the House of Representatives from the proposed P14.4 billion 2008 budget of the judicial branch.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-12-03&sec=4&aid=41070

3 senators set to block resolution on Trillanes
By: Bernadette E. Tamayo
AT least three senators are expected to block the resolution of Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago calling for the suspension, or worse, expulsion of Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV from the Upper Chamber after he led another failed coup attempt Thursday.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-12-03&sec=4&aid=41134

Trillanes di ‘aampunin’ ng Senado
Monday, December 3, 2007
Walang balak ang liderato ng Senado na ilagay sa custody ng Mataas na Kapulungan si Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV matapos nitong kubkubin ang Manila Peninsula Hotel.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2007120268

Senate to check Trillanes’ ethical conduct
THE SENATE will investigate one of its members who figured in Thursday’s coup attempt in Makati City.
Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago will file a resolution today before the ethics and privileges committee to look into the standoff staged by Antonio F. Trillanes IV with ex-military colleague Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim at The Peninsula Manila.
http://www.bworld.com.ph/BW120307/content.php?id=071


December 4, 2007 Mind Bullet Inc.
I.BANNER STORIES

1. Philippine Daily Inquirer
ABS-CBN tapes sought
PNP order decried as attack on free press
By Volt Contreras
Inquirer
Last updated 02:39am (Mla time) 12/04/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- In a move a top ABS-CBN news executive said could be an attempt to scare the media, the Philippine National Police Monday ordered the network giant to submit its raw news footage of Thursday’s march by rebel soldiers on the Peninsula Manila hotel and the ensuing standoff.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=104693

2. The Philippine Star
Sandigan justice in Erap conviction named to SC
By Marvin Sy and Sandy Araneta
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
One of the three Sandiganbayan justices who convicted deposed President Joseph Estrada of plunder has been appointed to fill the remaining vacancy in the 15-member Supreme Court (SC).
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071203180

3. Manila Times
36 rebellion charges filed
Govt says evidence suggests the failed Makati revolt was premeditated
By Jomar Canlas, Reporter
THE two leaders of a failed uprising against the government of President Gloria Arroyo have been charged with rebellion by the Department of Justice before the Makati Regional Trial Court.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/dec/04/yehey/top_stories/20071204top1.html
4. Malaya
Address issues, Manila archbishop tells Gloria
‘Heed Pen 50 call for justice’
BY GERARD NAVAL

MANILA Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales has called on President Arroyo to "personally and sincerely" address the issues that were raised by the group of Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV that took over the Manila Peninsula Hotel last Thursday.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/dec04/news1.htm

5. Manila Bulletin
OFWs welcome in Spain – GMA
Nurses, caregivers, and engineers are in demand
RP expects soft loans from Spanish gov’t
By GENALYN D. KABILING
MADRID (via PLDT) — Impressed by the hardworking, dedicated, and skilled Filipino workers, the Kingdom of Spain has opened wide its labor market for Filipino farmers, medical professionals, and engineers, President Arroyo announced on Sunday night.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20071204110526.html

6. The Daily Tribune

7. Abante
P50M WINAWALDAS SA LAKWATSA
Nina ELLEN TORDESILLAS, ERALYN PRADO at BOYET JADULCO
Inaagasan ngayon ang kaban ng bayan ng tinatayang P50 milyon sa byahe ng mga opisyal ng pamahalaan sa Europa sa pangunguna ni Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/dec0407/main.htm

8. Abante-Tonite
Itinumba sa loob ng simbahan
(Bell Desolo)
OCCIDENTAL MINDORO --- Tinuldukan ng dating mga kasama sa rebeldeng kilusan ang pagbabagong buhay ng isang ‘rebel returnee’ nang mamatay ito makaraang barilin habang nasa loob ng simbahan noong Linggo.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/dec0407/main.htm


9. Pilipino Star Ngayon
Kasong rebelyon isinampa ng DOJ
Ni Gemma Amargo-Garcia
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Sinampahan na kahapon ng kasong rebelyon ng Department of Justice (DOJ) sina Senator Antonio Trillanes IV, Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim, dating Vice-President Teofisto Guingona at 15 pang personalidad ka­ugnay sa naganap na stand-off sa Makati noong Huwebes.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2007120330

10. Journal
MEDIA HITS BACK
By: Tess Bedico & Joel dela Torre
Puno, Razon charged for arrest of journalists
JOURNALISTS yesterday filed charges against Interior Secretary Ronaldo Puno and Philippine National Police chief Director General Avelino Razon for the arrest of mediamen who covered the shortlived mutiny in Makati City last week.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-12-04&sec=1&aid=41230

11. Business World
BY MARIA ELOISA I. CALDERON, Senior Reporter
One more rate cut possible
Analysts see room for further monetary easing
RENEWED DOUBTS over the sustainability of economic growth, triggered by rising political noise, have increased the odds that the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) will maintain its easing stance for the remainder of the year, analysts said.
http://www.bworld.com.ph/BW120407/content.php?id=001

12. Business Mirror
It’s final: Government has 72% UCPB shares
By Rene Acosta
Reporter
THE First Division of the Sandiganbayan has blocked the attempt of businessman Eduardo “Danding” Cojuangco to regain his majority ownership of the United Coconut Planter’s Bank (UCPB) by denying with finality his appeal on the court’s earlier resolution that declared his more than 70-percent shares as owned by the Republic, having been bought with coconut-levy funds.
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/12042007/headlines01.html





II. POLITICAL
SPANISH JUNKET
37 solons join Arroyo party; who’s paying for their trip?
By Christian V. Esguerra, Tarra Quismundo, Norman Bordadora, Michael Lim Ubac
Inquirer
Last updated 04:21am (Mla time) 12/04/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- Who are the lawmakers now with President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on her three-country tour of Europe -- and who paid for their trip?
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=104701

Enrile, Lacson tangle over 2 new Palace choppers
By Gil C. Cabacungan Jr.
Inquirer
Last updated 06:07am (Mla time) 12/04/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo is either too tired or scared to ride in old choppers because her office bought, not one, but two new Bell helicopters at P634 million each, so she could island-hop in style and comfort.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=104710

Trillanes, 35 others charged in court for rebellion
By Mike Frialde
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
The Department of Justice (DO) filed non-bailable rebellion charges with the Makati City Regional Trial Court yesterday against Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV, former vice president Teofisto Guingona and a handful of former military officers and their alleged civilian supporters in connection with the Peninsula hotel takeover on Nov. 29.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071203181

Villarosa of Kampi cash gift story, 32 other lawmakers with GMA
By Jess Diaz
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
A lawmaker who pointed to President Arroyo’s party as the source of the P500,000 handed out in Malacañang last Oct. 11 led 32 other members of Congress in a junket to Europe with the Chief Executive.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071203184



No media crackdown, says Palace
By Paolo Romero
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
There is no way government will crack its whip against media practitioners.
It seems Malacañang is bent on winning back the media as it organized a dialogue with journalists in a bid to resolve issues arising from the coverage of the botched uprising of Sen. Antonio Trillanes in Makati City, even as officials warned that the press may have been used during the incident last week.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071203189

JDV: Mindanao to get 30% of P1.227-trillion budget
By Delon Porcalla
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Speaker Jose de Venecia assured the people that about 30 percent of the country’s P1.227 trillion national budget for 2008 will be allocated for the development of Mindanao’s infrastructure, agrarian reform and natural resources.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071203186

Senators insist on probe of media arrests, curfew after hotel siege
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Senators called again yesterday for an inquiry into the arrest of journalists and the placing of Metro Manila and nearby provinces under a dusk-to-dawn curfew after the government broke up the takeover of a hotel in Makati by soldiers and civilians led by Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV and Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071203191

Police back proposed transfer of Trillanes hearing to Crame
By Cecille Suerte Felipe
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Police officials supported yesterday the proposal of the Volunteers Against Crime and Corruption (VACC) to transfer the trial of the rebellion charges against Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV and rebel soldiers from the Makati City Regional Trial Court (MCRTC) to the police headquarters in Camp Crame in Quezon City.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071203195

Senators solid on probe into media arrests
By Efren L. Danao, Senior Reporter
THERE is near unanimity among senators to investigate the arrest of media practitioners who covered the failed revolt in Manila Peninsula hotel led by Sen. Antonio Trillanes 4th.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/dec/04/yehey/top_stories/20071204top2.html



Palace picks up tab of 32 tag-along solons
BY WENDELL VIGILIA
MALACAÑANG has sponsored an all-expense paid trip for 32 congressmen, mostly from Lakas-CMD party, to join the delegation of President Arroyo in her 10-day state visit to France, Spain and the United Kingdom.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/dec04/news3.htm

Trillanes, 35 others charged with rebellion
BY EVANGELINE DE VERA
CHARGES of rebellion and inciting to rebellion were filed yesterday by the justice department against Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV and 35 other personalities involved in the six-hour standoff at the Manila Peninsula hotel in Makati City Thursday last week.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/dec04/news4.htm

Comelec to question Goltiao on continued failure to get Bedol
COMMISSION on Elections’ spokesperson James Jimenez on Monday said Chief Supt. Joel Goltiao, PNP director in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao will appear before the Comelec en banc on Dec. 11 to explain why the arrest warrant issued against Maguindanao election supervisor Lintang Bedol remains unserved.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/dec04/metro3.htm

Trillanes, 35 others face rebellion cases
By GABRIEL S. MABUTAS
The Department of Justice (DoJ) filed yesterday rebellion charges against Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV, former Vice President Teofisto Guingona Jr. and 34 others in connection with last Thursday’s takeover of the Manila Peninsula hotel in Makati City.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20071204110528.html

Villar files resolution on Makati standoff
By MARIO B. CASAYURAN
Senate President Manuel Villar filed Senate Resolution No. 227 yesterday urging the Senate to immediately look into the Nov. 29 standoff in Makati, particularly the arrest of media men, the imposition of curfew, and accompanying Palace issuances.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20071204110529.html

Budget for Mindanao hiked to P180 B
By BEN R. ROSARIO
Mindanao leaders yesterday lauded the House of Representatives for approving a huge increase in the lump sum budget for the region in the proposed 2008 General Appropriations Act, which House Speaker Jose C. de Venecia Jr. said is roughly equivalent to R180 billion.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MTNN20071204110531.html


AFP discovers security lapses of soldiers guarding Trillanes
By RIO ROSE RIBAYA
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has found lapses in the security of military escorts that eventually led to the sixhour standoff at the Manila Peninsula Hotel between the government and a group led by Sen. Antonio F. Trillanes IV and Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim last Nov. 29, the National Capital Region Command (NCRCOM) said.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MTNN20071204110532.html

Wala na talagang kahihiyan
Grabe itong ginagawa sa atin ng pamahalaang Arroyo. Nakita naman nilang hirap na hirap na ang taumbayan. Marami ang nagugutom. At marami pang pahihirapan ang presyo ng langis na wala ring tigil sa paglobo.
Pero sila, palipad-lipad na lang sa ibang bansa. Europa pa ngayon. Bitbit na ang buong pamilya hanggang sa apo ni Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, sangkatutak na mga kongresista at miyembro ng gabinete pa ang angkas.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/dec0407/main.htm

Kalayaan at pamamahayag
Jake Macasaet
Niyurakan ng rehimeng Arroyo ang kalayaan sa pamamahayag. Ang trato ng pulis o militar sa mga taga-media ay parang mga kriminal.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/dec0407/main.htm

Free trip sa Europe: Junket ng 34 solon binira
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Matapos ang kontrobersyal na isyu tungkol sa suhulang nangyari sa Malacañang noong nakaraan buwan may bago na naman ‘bribery’ na sinasabi ang opposition sa Mababang Kapulungan ng Kongreso hinggil sa pagbiyahe ng may 34 kongresista at mga asawa at anak sa isang all-expense trip sa Europa para sumama kay Pangulong Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2007120331

Sec. Puno, Gen. Razon kinasuhan sa CHR
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Sinampahan na ng kasong arbitrary arrest, paglabag sa press freedom, Miranda doctrine atbp. sina DILG Secretary Ronaldo Puno at Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Director General Avelino Razon Jr. kaugnay ng illegal na pag-aresto sa mga pinosasang mediamen na nag-cover sa Manila Peninsula stand off sa Makati City noong Nobyembre 29.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2007120332

Trillanes hindi prayoridad ng Senado
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Bagamat pormal nang inihain kahapon ni Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago ang kanyang resolusyon na naglalayong parusahan si Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV sa kanyang ginawang pag-aalburoto sa Makati noong nakaraang linggo, sinigurado naman ni Senate President Manuel Villar na hindi prayoridad ng Senado ang imbestigahan at parusahan ito.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2007120333
MEDIA ARREST ‘SOP’ SA GOBYERNONG ARROYO
(Rey Marfil/Bernard Taguinod)
Kundi puputulin ng Mataas na Kapulungan ng Kongreso ang buntot ng Palasyo, magiging "SOP" ang pagpapa-aresto ni Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo sa mga mamamahayag, katulad ng nangyari sa Peninsula standoff kung saan pinosasan ang mga nag-cover dito.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/dec0407/main.htm

Walang aamin sa gastos
Kapwa itinatanggi ng Palasyo ng Malacañang at ng liderato ng MababangKapulungan ng Kongreso na hindi sila gumastos sa pagbiyahe ng apatnapung kongresista na umangkas kay Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo sa Europe.
Kahapon ay inanunsyo ni House Speaker Jose de Venecia na kahit singko ay walang ginastos ang Kamara sa biyahe ng mga kongresista.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/dec0407/main.htm

Santiago inihain na ang resolusyon para patalsikin sa Senado si Trillanes
PORMAL nang inihain kahapon ni Senadora Miriam Defensor-Santiago ang resolusyon u-pang hilingin ang pagpaparusa sa nagrebel-deng senador na si Antonio Trillanes IV.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-12-04&sec=1&aid=41193

Trillanes, Lim, Guingona charged with rebellion
By: Hector Lawas
THE Department of Justice yesterday formally filed rebellion charges against Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV, former Vice President Teofisto Guingona Jr., Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim and others involved in the Makati siege.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-12-04&sec=1&aid=41232

I’m ready for 2010 -- Loren
By: Liway C. Manantan-Yparraguirre
“IF it’s God’s will and the people want it, so be it. I’m ready.”
This was the confident statement of Senator Loren Legarda as she revealed to mediamen that she’s ready for the 2010 presidential elections.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-12-04&sec=1&aid=41263

Senado, ‘di prayoridad si Trillanes
By: Marlon Purificacion
INAMIN kahapon ni Senate President Manuel Villar na hindi prayoridad ng Senado si Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV upang talakayin ang kamaliang nagawa nito sa Makati siege.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-12-04&sec=4&aid=41192



Security lapses sa Makati siege bubusisiin ng AFP
NAKATAKDANG simulan ng pamunuan ng Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) ang im-bestigasyon sa posibleng pagkakaroon ng security lapses sa naganap na krisis sa Manila Peninsula Hotel sa Makati City.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-12-04&sec=4&aid=41194

Senate sets probe
By: Bernadette E. Tamayo
SENATORS called for an immediate investigation of the brief siege in Makati City last Thursday, including the arrest of media men and the imposition of a curfew.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-12-04&sec=4&aid=41234

Escudero files anti-torture bill
AN opposition lawmaker has filed a measure seeking to penalize acts of torture and other inhuman punishments of persons.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-12-04&sec=4&aid



December 5, 2007 Mind Bullet Inc.
I.BANNER STORIES

1. Philippine Daily Inquirer
Security cited for Trillanes’ transfer
From The Pen to the national penitentiary
By Alcuin Papa
Inquirer
Last updated 01:01am (Mla time) 12/05/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- State prosecutors are doing the paperwork for the transfer to the New Bilibid Prisons (NBP), the national penitentiary in Muntinlupa City, of Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV, Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim and 34 other soldiers and civilians charged with rebellion in connection with the Nov. 29 failed revolt at the Peninsula Manila.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=104905

2. The Philippine Star
‘SC post not a reward for convicting Erap’
By Mike Frialde
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Former Sandiganbayan Presiding Justice Teresita Leonardo de Castro took her oath as an associate justice of the Supreme Court yesterday even as she denied that her new post was a reward for convicting former President Joseph Estrada of plunder.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071204130

3. Manila Times
Justice to investigate Binay
Police to probe link between plotters, Reds
By Jomar Canlas and Anthony A. Vargas, Reporters
THE Department of Justice will investigate the possible involvement of a ranking member of the political opposition in a failed uprising last week against the government of President Gloria Arroyo. The Philippine National Police, for its part, will look into the possible link between the rebels and communists.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/dec/05/yehey/top_stories/20071205top1.html

4. Malaya
PNP seeks transfer of Trillanes to Munti Says Makati, Bicutan jails overcrowded
THE PNP will ask the Makati regional trial court to allow the transfer of Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV from Camp Crame to the New Bilibid Prisons in Muntinlupa to ensure his safety, an official said yesterday.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/dec05/news1.htm

5. Manila Bulletin
RP and Spain sign 9 accords
Cooperation in energy, aggie, tourism, etc. forged
Spain earmarks P9.2-B for new RP investments
By GENALYN D. KABILING
MADRID (via PLDT) – The Philippines and Spain signed nine bilateral agreements on economic and cultural cooperation yesterday, including an accord earmarking an initial R9.2 billion worth of investments and grants from the former colonial power in the areas of agriculture and fisheries.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20071205110605.html

6. The Daily Tribune
GMA wants ‘Peninsula 36’ in Muntinlupa
12/05/2007
From a five-star hotel in Makati City to a smelly Bilibid prison.
It’s the National Penitentiary in Muntinlupa for the rebels who staged a rebellion at the Manila Peninsula hotel last Nov. 29 where a standoff lasted for six hours.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071205hed1.html

7. Abante
SPANISH KING IDINAMAY SA LAKWATSA FUND
Nina BOYET JADULCO, ROSE MIRANDA at ERALYN PRADO
Tinaasan ng kilay ng mga senador ang pandadamay ng Malacañang sa Hari ng Espanya na siya umanong sumagot sa gastos ng sangkaterbang delegasyon ni Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo sa pitong araw na European trip nito.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/dec0507/main.htm




8. Abante-Tonite
TRILLANES PADADALUHIN SA SENADO
Ni Rey Marfil
Santa cops ang tawag sa kanila na ipinakalat sa mga matataong lugar bilang bahagi ng police visibility para mapigilan ang mga masasamang loob at iba pang kriminal na maaring magsamantala sa darating na Kapaskuhan. (AP)
Bagama’t pinagkaitan ng administrasyong Arroyo ng karapatang makadalo sa sesyon ng Mataas na Kapulungan ng Kongreso, nagmistula pang ‘susi’ ang pag-aalburuto ni opposition Senator Antonio ‘Sonny’ Trillanes IV upang makarating ng Senado.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/dec0507/main.htm

9. Pilipino Star Ngayon
Trillanes et al swak sa Bilibid
Ni Danilo Garcia
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Nakatakdang hilingin ng mga prosecutors ng pamahalaan sa korte na ilipat sina Senador Antonio Trilla­nes IV at Army Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim at 34 pa sa New Bilibid Prisons sa Muntinlupa City, ayon sa Department of Interior and Local Government.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2007120435

10. Journal
TRILLANES TO MUNTI
By: Alfred P. Dalizon
Gov’t wants ‘high-risk’ rebellion suspects moved from Crame to New Bilibid Prisons
CITING security reasons and the considerable savings to be made, senior government officials yesterday said they will ask the court to transfer Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV, Army Brigadier General Danilo Lim and 34 others charged with rebellion in connection with the Manila Peninsula Hotel siege to the New Bilibid Prisons in Muntinlupa.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-12-05&sec=1&aid=41349

11. Business World
RP taxes among highest in region
COMPANIES IN THE PHILIPPINES are paying more taxes compared with those in other Southeast Asian countries, a new World Bank study showed.
http://www.bworld.com.ph/BW120507/content.php?id=001






12. Business Mirror
Policy tools urged as food prices rise
By Cai U. Ordinario
THE International Monetary Fund (IMF) has urged middle-income and developing countries, including the Philippines, to tighten monetary policy to cope with high food prices brought about by the worldwide adoption of biofuels.
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/12052007/headlines01.html

II. POLITICAL
‘Junket not fun’ but 3 solons seek probe
By Christian V. Esguerra, Norman Bordadora
Inquirer
Last updated 03:26am (Mla time) 12/05/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- Leyte Rep. Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, a neophyte congressman, Tuesday said the lawmakers who joined President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on her trip to Spain and the United Kingdom were far from having a holiday.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=104931

Senate to investigate ‘illegal’ 5-hr curfew
By Dona Pazzibugan
Inquirer
Last updated 03:24am (Mla time) 12/05/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- The Senate has decided to investigate the imposition of a five-hour curfew following the Peninsula Manila hotel standoff, condemning the police action as unconstitutional and warning against more serious violations of civil liberties if it is ignored.
Those who signed the resolution were Senate President Manuel Villar, President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada, Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel Jr., Senators Rodolfo Biazon, Benigno Aquino III, Manuel Roxas II, Panfilo Lacson, Loren Legarda, Jamby Madrigal, Alan Cayetano, Francis Escudero, Richard Gordon and Gregorio Honasan.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=104933

Senators hit European junket of congressmen
By Aurea Calica
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Senate leaders lambasted yesterday President Arroyo and her delegation of lawmakers, mostly members of the House of Representatives, for being insensitive to public sentiment when they made the trip to Europe.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071204132

House dismisses complaint vs JDV
By Jess Diaz
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
The House committee on ethics voted unanimously yesterday to dismiss charges of alleged misconduct filed by lawyer Roel Pulido against Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071204135

DOTC, Japan firm ink P900-M aviation consultancy deal
By Rainier Allan Ronda
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
The Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) signed a P900-million consultancy contract with a Japanese consortium in its effort to modernize the Philippine air traffic systems.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071204136

Senators condemn curfew
By Christina Mendez
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
The Senate passed a resolution condemning the curfew imposed by the Philippine National Police (PNP) from midnight to 5 a.m. last Nov. 30 after government forces quelled a hotel siege led by Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV in Makati City last Thursday.
Apart from Villar, the other signatories were Senate Majority Leader Francis Pangilinan, Senate President Pro-Tempore Jinggoy Estrada, Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel Jr., and Senators Rodolfo Biazon, Noynoy Aquino, Alan Peter Cayetano, Francis Escudero, Richard Gordon, Gringo Honasan, Manuel Roxas II, Panfilo Lacson, Loren Legarda and Jamby Madrigal.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071204144

Senate questions helicopter purchases by Malacañang
By Efren L. Danao, Senior Reporter
Senate President Manuel Villar questioned Tuesday why the proposed purchase of two helicopters by the Office of the President already identified the brand of the helicopters.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/dec/05/yehey/metro/20071205met3.html

Senators score curfew after Makati standoff
In a bid to prevent further violations to the Constitution, 14 senators yesterday signed a resolution condemning authorities for imposing a curfew following the Makati standoff. The senators also called for an inquiry in aid of legislation to help craft remedial legislative measures on the issue.
Senate Resolution 233 or the “Resolution Expressing the Sense of the Senate that the Curfew Imposed from 12 Midnight until 5 in the Morning of November 30, 2007 is without Legal and Constitutional Basis ” was also signed by Senate President Manny Villar and Senators Jinggoy Estrada, Nene Pimentel, Rodolfo Biazon, Noynoy Aquino, Alan Peter Cayetano, Chiz Escudero, Richard Gordon, Gringo Honasan, Mar Roxas, Panfilo Lacson, Loren Legarda and Jamby Madrigal.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/dec/05/yehey/metro/20071205met4.html

‘Junketeers’ paid their way?
PRESS Secretary Ignacio Bunye on Tuesday denied that Malacañang shouldered the expenses of the delegation of President Arroyo which included more than 30 congressmen on their eight-day European visit.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/dec05/news7.htm

Ethics panel dismisses complaint against JDV
THE House committee on ethics yesterday dismissed the complaint for unethical practice filed by lawyer Roel Pulido against Speaker Jose de Venecia for lack of jurisdiction.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/dec05/news8.htm

14 senators say curfew violated the Constitution
By HANNAH L. TORREGOZA
At least 14 senators are one in saying that Malacañang’s imposition of a curfew following the six-hour standoff at the Peninsula Hotel Manila last Thursday was illegal and a violation of the Constitution.
Senate Majority Leader Francis Pangilinan said those who signed Resolution 233 included himself, Senate President Manuel Villar, and Sens. Jinggoy Estrada, Aquilino Pimentel Jr., Rodolfo Biazon, Benigno Aquino III, Alan Peter Cayetano, Francis Escudero, Richard Gordon, Gregorio Honasan, Manuel Roxas II, Panfilo Lacson, Loren Legarda and Ma. Ana Consuelo Madrigal.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20071205110606.html

House ethics panel dismisses JdV complaint
The ethics committee of the House of Representatives took less than one hour yesterday to overwhelmingly vote to dismiss a complaint filed against Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20071205110607.html

Senate debates on 2008 nat’l budget end
By MARIO B. CASAYURAN
The Senate ends floor debates today on the P1.227-trillion 2008 national budget that will lead to a two-week bicameral conference meeting starting next week between the Senate and the House of Representatives to finetune their versions of the General Appropriations Act before both legislative chambers go on a monthlong Christmas recess starting Dec. 22, Senate President Manuel "Manny" B. Villar Jr. said yesterday.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MTNN20071205110617.html

Gov’t denies spending on European junket
12/05/2007
Malacañang yesterday denied it is squandering public funds with President Arroyo having taken with her a huge delegation for her eight-day, three-state official trip to Europe, saying the national government is not shouldering all of the expenses of the members of her entourage that includes three senators, 34 congressmen and their kin.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071205hed3.html


House ethics panel junks Pulido case vs JdV
12/05/2007
Citing lack of jurisdiction, the House of Represen-tatives’ ethics committee yesterday dismissed the complaint filed by lawyer Roberto Rafael “Ruel” Pulido against Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr. involving a case of conflict of interest over the Speaker’s grant of a congressional franchise to a telecommunications company owned by his son years ago.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071205hed4.html

Senate slams curfew imposition
12/05/2007
A blatant violation of people’s rights, was the majority of senators’ position on the government’s imposition of curfew last Friday, after the so-called Makati City standoff died down.
Senate Resolution 233 or the Resolution Expressing the Sense of the Senate that the Curfew Imposed from 12 Midnight until 5 in the Morning of November 30, 2007 is without Legal and Constitutional Basis and that the Appropriate Committee is being Directed to Conduct an Investigation in Aid of Legislation to Provide Remedial Legislation to Prevent the Repeat of this Violation of the Constitution was also signed by Villar and Senators Jinggoy Estrada, Aquilino Pimentel Jr., Rodolfo Biazon, Benigno Aquino III, Alan Peter Cayetano, Francis Escudero, Richard Gordon, Gringo Honasan, Manuel Roxas II, Panfilo Lacson, Loren Legarda and Jamby Madrigal.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/nation/20071205nat2.html

Malaking delegasyon ng solons sa Europe, binatikos
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Sa kabila nang tinatawag na interparliamentary courtesy, binatikos kahapon ni Senate President Manuel Villar Jr. ang napaulat na malaking delegasyon ng mga congressmen na sumama kay Pangulong Gloria Arroyo sa biyahe nito sa Europe.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2007120439

Pagpasa sa 2008 budget inaapura
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Siniguro kahapon ni Senate President Manuel Villar na maipapasa ng Senado ang P1.227 trilyong national budget para sa 2008 bago matapos ang linggo.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2007120441

EDITORYAL — Magkongresista para mapasyalan ang mundo
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
TATLUMPU’T DALAWANG kongresista ang kasama ni President Arroyo sa pagtungo sa Europe. Bawat kongresista ay binigyan ng business class tickets na ang halaga ay $5,000 bawat isa, hotel allowance na $500 bawat gabi at per diem na $3,000 bawat isa sa buong trip. Siyam na araw tatagal sa Europe ang delegation ni Mrs. Arroyo. Huling nagtungo sa Europe sina Mrs. Arroyo noong June 2006.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Opinyon&p=50&type=2&sec=56


Bilihan sa Gloria choppers kasado na sa manufacturer?
(Rey Marfil)
Matapos ang pagbubunyag ni opposition senator Panfilo "Ping" Lacson sa P1.2 bilyong halaga ng presidential helicopter ni Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, kaagad namang kinuwestyon ni Senate President Manuel "Manny" Villar Jr., ang maagang paglutang ng manufacturer nito kasabay ang pagdududa na baka nagkaroon na ng usapan dito.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/dec0507/main.htm

JDV inabsuwelto ng minority solons
(Bernard Taguinod)
Taliwas sa inaasahan, mismong ang mga kinatawan ng minority bloc sa House committee on ethics ang nanguna sa pag-absuwelto kay Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr., sa kasong isinampa laban sa kanya ni Atty. Roel Pulido.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/dec0507/main.htm

JDV ethics case junked
By: Jester P. Manalastas
WITHOUT much ado, the House Ethics Committee yesterday dismissed the ethics complaint filed against Speaker Jose de Venecia by private lawyer Roel Pulido in connection with the controversial broadband project.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-12-05&sec=1&aid=41359



December 6, 2007 Mind Bullet Inc.
I.BANNER STORIES

1. Philippine Daily Inquirer
Church backs farmers
Ateneo also supports Sumilao folk
By Jerome Aning
MANILA, Philippines -- Farmers calling on the government to place a 144-hectare property in Sumilao, Bukidnon, under agrarian reform coverage have gained fresh support from Manila Archbishop Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=105151
.
2. The Philippine Star
Puno: We’ll arrest press again
By Michael Punongbayan
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Despite presidential assurances of gentler police treatment, members of the media will still be arrested and handcuffed if found in a situation similar to the Peninsula Manila incident.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071205113


3. Manila Times
Govt dares media: Sue us
Razon fires 24 Makati police over failed revolt
By James Konstantin Galvez, Reporter
Sue us.
This option, the government on Wednesday said, is open to the journalists who were arrested after last week’s failed revolt staged from the posh Manila Peninsula hotel.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/dec/06/yehey/top_stories/20071206top1.html

4. Malaya
Arrest of media men will be the rule: Puno
Says presence at Pen standoff ‘obstructed justice’
BY ASHZEL HACHERO AND REGINA BENGCO
INTERIOR Secretary Ronaldo Puno yesterday justified the police arrest of media men covering last week’s occupation by Magdalo officers and soldiers of the Manila Peninsula and warned they would be treated the same in future occasions if found "obstructing justice."
http://www.malaya.com.ph/dec06/news1.htm

5. Manila Bulletin

6. The Daily Tribune
Palace: Media arrests correct, justified
By Sherwin C. Olaes
12/06/2007
Malacañang yesterday justified the arrests and even the cuffing of members of the media by the police teams at the height of the standoff at the Manila Peninsula hotel in Makati City between the Magdalo soldiers led by former Navy Capt. Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV, Armed Forces Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim and the government forces.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071206hed1.html

7. Abante
TRILLANES BAWAL IBIYAHE SA MUNTI!
Nina Boyet Jadulco, Rose Miranda, Tina Mendoza, Irish Ann Cruz, Nilo Marasigan at Juliet de Loza
Tahasang kinuwestyon kahapon ng mga senador at ilang grupo ang plano ng Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) na ilipat o "ibiyahe" sa National Bilibid Prisons (NBP) sina Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV at Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/dec0607/main.htm


8. Abante-Tonite
TRILLANES ITUTUMBA!
(Rey Marfil/Bernard Taguinod)
Nangangamba ang mga katropa ni Sen. Antonio Trillanes sa oposisyon sa buhay ng Magdalo leader kapag itinuloy ang paglilipat dito sa New Bilibid Prison (NBP) Muntinlupa dahil sa posibilidad na itumba ito sa loob ng naturang piitan.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/dec0607/main.htm


9. Pilipino Star Ngayon
Puganteng Magdalo timbog sa NAIA!
Nina Joy Cantos At Ellen Fernando
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Nadakip na ang isa sa apat na pumugang miyembro ng Magdalo Group na sangkot sa Peninsula standoff habang pasakay ng eroplano patungong Estados Unidos, kahapon ng madaling araw sa Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2007120587


10. Journal
MAGDALO MAN FALLS
By: Alfred P. Dalizon with Willy Balasa
Trillanes cohort stopped from taking flight to US
COMBINED police and military intelligence agents yesterday arrested a member of the Magdalo Group who took part in the siege at the Peninsula Manila last week.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-12-06&sec=1&aid=41431


11. Business World
BY FELIPE F. SALVOSA II, Sub-Editor
Trade a mixed bag for RP
WTO report points to problems in electronics, gains in garments
THE PHILIPPINES SEEMS TO BE LOSING GROUND with regard to its main export product, electronics, on account of growing Chinese competition, but it is still experiencing growth in clothing and textiles despite the abolition of quotas in major export markets two years ago, the annual report of the World Trade Organization (WTO) said.
http://www.bworld.com.ph/BW120607/content.php?id=001


12. Business Mirror
House okays agri fund extension
By Fernan Marasigan
THE House of Representatives on Wednesday approved on third and final reading a bill which provides for the extension of the use of the Agricultural Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (Acef) but failed anew to act on the much-awaited cheaper-medicines bill.
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/12062007/headlines01.html


II. POLITICAL
Palace tells Sumilao farmers: Go to DAR not to us
By Lira Dalangin-Fernandez
MANILA, Philippines -- Going to Malacañang for the final leg of their march will certainly inject some drama into the two-month-long journey of the Sumilao farmers, but Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita says it’s now up to the Department of Agrarian Reform to settle the land dispute.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=105039

Palace washes hands of Trillanes, et al transfer
By Lira Dalangin-Fernandez
MANILA, Philippines -- Malacañang on Wednesday said it has nothing to do with proposals to transfer Senator Antonio Trillanes IV and others facing charges of rebellion for the Makati standoff last week to the New Bilibid Prisons (NBP) in Muntinlupa City.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=105035

Senate to investigate ‘illegal’ 5-hr curfew
By Dona Pazzibugan
MANILA, Philippines -- The Senate has decided to investigate the imposition of a five-hour curfew following the Peninsula Manila hotel standoff, condemning the police action as unconstitutional and warning against more serious violations of civil liberties if it is ignored.
Also at the Senate, Cayetano Tuesday said he found no crime of rebellion in Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV’s actions on Nov. 29, when he walked out of his coup d’etat trial in a Makati courtroom, marched on the Peninsula, took over the hotel with armed rebel soldiers and civilians, and demanded President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s ouster.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=104933
Children willingly join guerrilla groups in RP -- report
Agence France-Presse
MANILA, Philippines -- Children in the Philippines are willingly joining communist or Muslim separatist guerrilla groups to escape grinding poverty, a UNICEF commissioned study released Wednesday said.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=105057


OPINION
Other immoral acts of gov’t
A recent full-page advertisement called for rejection of “a morally bankrupt government,” which is the Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo regime. It mentioned several acts of moral bankruptcy -- among them the Joc-Joc Bolante fertilizer scam, the repressive CPR (calibrated preemptive response) policy, the ZTE scandal, the “cash gifts” distributed to congressmen and local officials right in Malacañang.
http://opinion.inquirer.net/inquireropinion/letterstotheeditor/view_article.php?article_id=105123



Angara, Zubiri defend junket
By Aurea Calica
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Senators Edgardo Angara and Juan Miguel Zubiri justified yesterday their being part of President Arroyo’s entourage in Europe, citing the investments generated by the trip.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071205119


Palace: SC appointment not connected to Erap conviction
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Malacañang defended the decision of President Arroyo to appoint Sandiganbayan Presiding Justice Teresita Leonardo de Castro to the Supreme Court, saying that it had nothing to do with the conviction of former President Joseph Estrada.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071205121


CA promotes 70 AFP officers
By Christina Mendez
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Except for the military general who initiated the survey against former Magdalo leader and now Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV, a total of 70 military officers ranging from colonel to general were promoted yesterday by the Commission on Appointments (CA) during plenary session.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071205123


Senators put Miriam resolution on Trillanes in the backburner
By Aurea Calica
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Senators are not keen on punishing Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV – at least for now – for leading the Peninsula Manila takeover last week, which later led to his arrest together with dozens of others.
Sen. Pia Cayetano, chair of the Senate committee on ethics and privileges, said she doesn’t see any move to sanction Trillanes prospering because of lack of support from other senators.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071205124





Palace insists curfew constitutional
By Paolo Romero
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Malacañang maintained yesterday that the imposition of a curfew following a foiled attempt to overthrow President Arroyo last week in Makati City was constitutional.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071205126


GMA plans to meet with Kuwait emir to save Ranario
Thursday, December 6, 2007
President Arroyo plans to fly to Kuwait after visiting Spain and the United Kingdom to ask the emir to spare the life of Marilou Ranario, a Filipina sentenced to death for killing her employer, Malacañang said yesterday.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071205129



Senate finishes debates on 2008 national budget
By Efren L. Danao Senior And Maricel V. Cruz, Reporters
The Senate finished its budget debates Tuesday night as it moved closer to Senate President Manuel Villar’s prediction that Congress would approve the budget before the Christmas break. Meanwhile, the House of Representatives is gearing for the approval of at least 15 significant measures, including the proposed cheaper medicines bill, before it goes on holiday break.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/dec/06/yehey/metro/20071206met2.html


Guests return to top Makati hotel after stand off
Classical music filled the cozy lobby of the Manila Peninsula hotel on Wednesday as operations went into full steam less than a week after a standoff by mutinous soldiers disrupted its operations.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/dec/06/yehey/metro/20071206met5.html

P4 billion in fresh pork
‘The opposition senators have some explaining to do.’
Gloria Arroyo is seeking an additional P4 billion to spend as she wishes in the proposed 2008 budget. This is on top of the intelligence, calamity and social funds at her disposal. The minority, in a 180-degree turnaround, is amenable to giving Gloria the sum she is asking on the condition that disbursement be made transparent. What gives?
http://www.malaya.com.ph/dec06/edit.htm


Palace says transfer
to Bilibid is up to court
Malacañang yesterday said government is leaving it to the court to decide whether Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV should be detained at the New Bilibid Prisons in Muntinlupa City.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/dec06/news2.htm


70 kongresista nagpalista sa Europe trip
(Boyet Jadulco/Rose Miranda/Eralyn Prado)
Halos 1/3 ng populasyon ng Kamara ang gustong sumama sa biyahe ni Pangulong Gloria Arroyo sa Europa subalit nalaglag ang kalahati nito dahil sa namroblema ang Chief Executive sa gagastusin ng kanilang delegasyon.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/dec0607/main.htm


Kiko takes up cudgels for inmates
By: Bernadette E. Tamayo
ALARMED by reports that at least one prisoner dies every day due to health reasons, Senate Majority Leader Francis Pangilinan called for a closer look at the conditions of inmates.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-12-06&sec=4&aid=0


House okays agri fund extension
By Fernan Marasigan
THE House of Representatives on Wednesday approved on third and final reading a bill which provides for the extension of the use of the Agricultural Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (Acef) but failed anew to act on the much-awaited cheaper-medicines bill.
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/12062007/headlines01.html


Japanese government seeks immediate ratification of JPEPA
The Japanese government has urged the Philippine government to immediately ratify the Japan- Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (JPEPA) for "a more comprehensive, interactive, and mutually beneficial" trade relations between the two countries.
http://www.mb.com.ph/SP_MAIN20071206.html



December 7, 2007 Mind Bullet Inc.
I.BANNER STORIES


1. Philippine Daily Inquirer
Arroyo: No mercy for Trillanes
President sets tough gov’t position in London
By Michael Lim Ubac
LONDON (VIA PLDT) -- President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo said Wednesday that the government would show no mercy to Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV and the rebel soldiers and civilians who took over the Peninsula Manila hotel last week and called for her ouster.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=105349


2. The Philippine Star
Sayyaf kidnappers get 20 life terms
By Rhodina Villanueva
Friday, December 7, 2007
A Pasig City judge yesterday convicted and handed down 20 life sentences to each of the 14 Abu Sayyaf terrorists accused of kidnapping an American missionary couple and 18 others at the Dos Palmas resort in Puerto Princesa, Palawan in May 2001.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071206176

3. Manila Times
Peso at 41.88 versus dollar
7-year high credited to weak dollar, remittances
By Maricel E. Burgonio, Reporter
The peso on Thursday closed to its highest level since May 2000 driven by sustained strong inflows of remittances and a weak US dollar.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/dec/07/yehey/top_stories/20071207top1.html


4. Malaya
Trillanes to Bilibid put on hold
DOJ waits for court OK
BY RAYMOND AFRICA
GOVERNMENT has deferred its plan to transfer Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV and other personalities accused in the Manila Peninsula hotel standoff to the New Bilibid Prisons in Muntinlupa City.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/dec07/news1.htm


5. Manila Bulletin
GMA meets with Queen Elizabeth II
Thanks the Queen for warm treatment of OFWs
Meeting enhances bilateral ties with United Kingdom
By GENALYN D. KABILING
LONDON (via PLDT) — President Arroyo thanked yesterday Queen Elizabeth II for the good treatment of the growing Filipino community here as she sought to enhance Philippine bilateral relations with the United Kingdom during their historic meeting here.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20071207110808.html


6. The Daily Tribune
4% say GMA gov’t ineffective vs corruption
Bribery in RP among worst in world — TI T
The Philippines under the Arroyo regime has climbed high in the global corruption index.
By Chito Lozada Business Editor
Corruption watchdog Transparency International (TI) ranked the Philippines in the top rung of countries most affected by bribery in the world based on its Global Corruption Barometer 2007 report released yesterday.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071207hed1.html

7. Abante
MEDIA ARREST WA EPEK!--SENADO
Nina BOYET JADULCO, NILO MARASIGAN at ROSE MIRANDA
Walang magagawa ang gobyerno kahit anong panggigipit o pagkontrol ang gawin nito laban sa media dahil protektado ng Konstitusyon ang kanilang mga karapatan at bahagi ng kanilang tungkulin ang kanilang ginagampanan, sa ayaw at sa gusto ng pulisya.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/dec0707/main.htm
8. Abante-Tonite
PARDON KAY JALOSJOS BAYAD-UTANG
(Bernard Taguinod/Rey Marfil)
Nagsimula nang magbayad ng political debt si Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo sa kanyang mga kaalyado sa Mababang Kapulungan ng Kongreso na hindi nang-iwan sa kanya sa kanyang mga pinagdaanang pagsubok.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/dec0707/main.htm

9. Pilipino Star Ngayon
PNP ‘palpak’ sa G-2 blast
Ni Joy Cantos
Mahigit isang buwan matapos ang madugong pagsabog ng Glorietta 2 mall sa Makati City, patuloy pa ring humihingi ng hustisya ang daan nitong biktima dahil magpahanggang ngayon ay wala pa ring malinaw na resulta na maipalabas ang Philippine National Police (PNP) kung ano talaga ang kinalabasan ng imbestigasyon sa kaso.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2007120686

10. Journal
FREE SOON
Pardon Jalosjos’ Xmas gift?
By: Alvin Murcia
ANTI-CRIME groups and other human rights advocates are expected to raise an outcry once convicted rapist former Zamboanga del Norte congressman Romeo Jalosjos is released before yearend.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-12-07&sec=1&aid=41611

11. Business World
Petty bribery increasing in RP
Survey also shows Filipinos expect corruption to grow in next three years
THE PHILIPPINES’ IMAGE has taken yet another hit as a survey by corruption watchdog Transparency International showed the country in the top ten list of countries most affected by petty bribery.
http://www.bworld.com.ph/BW120707/content.php?id=001

12. Business Mirror
RP in top tier of ‘bribe-prone’ spots
By Mia M. Gonzalez
THE Philippines is perceived to be among the countries with the highest incidence of petty bribery, the results of a new poll conducted by Transparency International (TI) showed.
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/1207&082007/headlines01.html

II. POLITICAL
Government bucks Trillanes bid to attend Senate
By Leila Salaverria
MANILA, Philippines -- Letting Senator Antonio Trillanes IV attend Senate sessions and set up an office in his detention cell in Fort Bonifacio would be tantamount to giving a person who attempted to grab power access to the government’s secrets and resources.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=105328


Senate on track to pass budget
By Dona Pazzibugan
MANILA, Philippines -- With Senator Juan Ponce Enrile running a tight ship, the Senate is on track to meet its self-imposed deadline to submit the final version of the P1.227-trillion 2008 national budget to Malacañang for signing before the end of the year.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=105325


Legarda: No need to be a billionaire to run
By Gil C. Cabacungan Jr.
MANILA, Philippines -- Fame rather than money will be the deciding factor in the 2010 elections.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=105323


Sumilao farmers fear ‘betrayal’ by DAR
By Jerome Aning
MANILA, Philippines -- Higaonon farmers who are asking the government to distribute the 144-hectare former Quisumbing property in Sumilao, Bukidnon, expressed fear Thursday that Agrarian Reform Secretary Nasser Pangandaman would make decisions that would “grossly disappoint them.”
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=105310



Nene, Ping visit Trillanes “Keep out of trouble.”
By Cecille Suerte Felipe
This was the advice opposition Sen. Aquilino Pimentel Jr. gave to neophyte Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV who led the foiled rebellion at the Peninsula Manila in Makati City last Nov. 29.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071206180
RP leads world in terror convictions – DOJ
Friday, December 7, 2007
Justice Undersecretary Ricardo Blancaflor claimed yesterday the Philippines now holds the record for having the highest number of terrorist convictions – 39 – after 14 Abu Sayyaf bandits were convicted yesterday.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071206178


Senators slam DILG chief for threats vs media
By Aurea Calica
Friday, December 7, 2007
Four senators chided yesterday Interior Secretary Ronaldo Puno for threatening to arrest journalists if they are again caught in a situation similar to the Peninsula Manila hotel siege in Makati last week.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071206184


Motion to transfer Trillanes deferred
By Cecille Suerte Felipe
Friday, December 7, 2007
Government prosecutors have deferred the filing of a motion to transfer Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV and 36 other accused in the Peninsula siege to the New Bilibid Prisons (NBP) pending the determination of probable cause in their rebellion case.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071206190


RP tops in petty bribery
By Pia Lee-Brago
Friday, December 7, 2007
A study by Transparency International has showed that the Philippines is one of the top 10 countries with the highest level of petty bribery, with 30 percent of respondents reporting paying bribes in these countries.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071206185


Gov’t, MILF talksresume this month
Friday, December 7, 2007
COTABATO CITY – Peace talks between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) will resume middle of this month, with focus on the remaining issues on ancestral domain.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071206191

SolGen: Senate doing fine without Trillanes
The Senate’s “loss” is also the Senate’s “gain.”
This was the line used by government lawyers on Thursday in opposing a petition of Sen. Antonio Trillanes 4th asking the Supreme Court to allow him to perform his functions as an elected Senator of the Republic by letting him attend Senate sessions.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/dec/07/yehey/top_stories/20071207top3.html


RP 10th most corrupt, says watchdog report
By Angelo S. Samonte, Reporter
Malacañang shrugged off the findings of international anticorruption watchdog Transparency International (TI) in its latest survey that ranks the Philippines as 10th most corrupt among the world’s countries.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/dec/07/yehey/top_stories/20071207top4.html


Comelec demands explanation from PNP on Bedol
By William B. Depasupil, Reporter
THE Commission on Elections (Comelec) ordered his arrest six weeks ago, but controversial Maguindanao election supervisor Lintang Bedol has remained elusive, leaving the poll body groping in the dark on his whereabouts.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/dec/07/yehey/metro/20071207met2.html


Senate passes bill giving P10 B to martial law victims
The Senate has passed on third and final reading the bill providing for a R10 billion compensation to some 10,000 victims of human rights violations during martial law, Senate President Manny Villar said.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20071207110809.html

Bills on civil aviation, aggie OK’d by House
To provide safe and efficient transport and regulatory services in the country, the House of Representatives last Wednesday approved on third and final reading the creation of the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) under the proposed Civil Aviation Authority Act of 2008 contained in House Bill 3156.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20071207110812.html


Gov’t defers planned transfer of Trillanes to New Bilibid Prisons
The government deferred yesterday its plan to file a motion for the transfer of Sen. Antonio V. Trillanes’ detention from the Philippine National Police (PNP) custodial center in Camp Crame to the New Bilibid Prisons in Muntinlupa City "out of judicial courtesy."
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20071207110814.html
14 Abu Sayyaf men sentenced for Dos Palmas kidnap
By ANNA LIZA T. VILLAS
A Pasig City court yesterday meted double life imprisonment against 14 members of the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) while four others were acquitted for kidnapping 20 persons from Dos Palmas Island Resort in Palawan six years ago.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20071207110810.html


Protektado ng Konstitusyon
Kung paanong tumutupad kami, bilang mga mamamahayag, sa aming tungkulin ay gayon din naman ang pulisya. Ang ating mga karapatan at responsibilidad - magkakaiba man ito - ay protektado ng Konstitusyon.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/dec0707/main.htm


Gloria lalong babantayan
(Bernard Taguinod)
Lalong mahihirapan ang administrasyon ni Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo dahil sa ginagawang panggigipit ng kanyang mga tauhan sa media.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/dec0707/main.htm


Imbestigasyon pasalubong sa biyaherong solons
(Bernard Taguinod)
Matapos ang walong araw na paglalamiyerda sa Europa, imbestigasyon naman sa House Ethics committee ang dadatnan ng mahigit 34 congressmen na umangkas sa biyahe ni Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/dec0707/main.htm


M’cañang kumpiyansang makakalusot sa curfew
(Rose Miranda)
Naniniwala ang Malacañang na makakalusot si Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo sa Senate probe hinggil sa legalidad ng ipinatupad na curfew.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/dec0707/main.htm


Media won’t be cowed -- Loren
SENATOR Loren Legarda said yesterday that the government threat to arrest journalists if they’d figure in situations similar to the Manila Peninsula siege will not cow members of the Fourth Estate.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-12-07&sec=1&aid=41542

Batas ni Ronnie Puno
Jake Macasaet
Nakakahilo na, kung minsan ay nakakasuka, ang mga ginagawa ni DILG Secretary Ronaldo Puno sa tangkang pagyurak sa kalayaan sa pamamahayag.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/dec0707/main.htm


Senador ginatasan ng ex-Palace official
(Rey Marfil)
Kung may mas mataas na katagang maglalarawan sa ingrato at walang utang na loob, ito’y matitikman ng isang dating opisyal ng Malacañang, partikular sa panahon ni dating Pangulong Joseph ‘Erap’ Estrada matapos gawing ‘milking cow’ ang tanggapan ng isang senador.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/dec0707/main.htm


Court martial postpones
Lim hearing
A MILITARY court trying Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim and 27 other Army and Marines officers for the attempt to oust government in February last year reset to December 14 the trial scheduled for today because Lim would not be able to show up as he is still under police custody.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/dec07/news3.htm

OPINION
Beyond shame
Thirty-four congressmen and three senators joined the party of Doña Gloria to Spain and the United Kingdom. The same 34 representatives were recipients of a 500,000 peso gift bag from Malacañang last October 11. They are a mixed group of unrepentant trapos, mostly from Doña Gloria’s personal party – Kampi, with a sprinkling of Lakas, Nacionalistas, Liberals, LDP and NPC, all parties of the administration coalition. And not to forget, a neophyte party list representative from Buhay.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/dec07/edbanayo.htm


December 8, 2007 Mind Bullet Inc.
I.BANNER STORIES

1. Philippine Daily Inquirer
Gov't loses case vs Tan
SC: Sequestration order 'null and void'
By Leila Salaverria
Inquirer
MANILA, Philippines -- Tobacco tycoon Lucio Tan scored a major victory against the government after the Supreme Court upheld a Sandiganbayan ruling that there was no basis for the seizure of Tan's assets in four companies, including his flagship Fortune Tobacco Corp., in 1986.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=105559

2. The Philippine Star
SC to government: Get out of Lucio Tan firms
By Mike Frialde
Saturday, December 8, 2007
The Supreme Court upheld yesterday a ruling by the Sandiganbayan ordering the lifting of government’s sequestration of companies and other business interests of taipan Lucio Tan.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071207156


3. Manila Times
Arroyo off to Kuwait to save Pinay worker
President Gloria Arroyo is to visit Kuwait on Sunday to seek clemency for a Filipina maid sentenced to death for killing her employer, a senior aide said on Friday.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/dec/08/yehey/top_stories/20071208top1.html



4. Malaya
Good economist,very bad politician?
Gloria rates self before London businessmen
BY REGINA BENGCO
PRESIDENT Arroyo yesterday told British businessmen in London that said she is not a good politician but she is a good economist.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/dec08/news1.htm


5. Manila Bulletin
GMA flying to Kuwait
Will meet with Emir and plead for Ranario’s life
President back in Manila on Monday morning
By GENALYN D. KABILING
LONDON (via PLDT) — President Arroyo will meet Kuwaiti ruler, Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmad al Sabah, on Sunday to personally appeal to him to spare the life of a Filipino domestic helper convicted of murder.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20071208110916.html

6. The Daily Tribune
Gov’t wants media as witnesses vs rebels
12/08/2007
After arresting, cuffing and threatening the members of media who were covering the Manila Peninsula standoff, on charges of obstruction of justice, the state prosecutors now want the same media to become prosecution witnesses against the rebels, led by detained Sen. Antonio Trillanes lV, who took part in the alleged rebellion last Nov. 29.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071208hed1.html


7. Abante
BUTATA AGAD!
Unang 'alas' vs Trillanes at iba pa sablay sa korte
Nina TINA MENDOZA, GRACE VELASCO at NILO MARASIGAN
Sablay agad ang unang ebidensyang inilatag ng panig ng gobyerno sa isinusulong na kasong rebelyon laban kay Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV at iba pa kaugnay ng pagkubkob sa Manila Peninsula Hotel sa Makati City noong Nobyembre 29.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/dec0807/main.htm

8. Abante-Tonite
KABAHAYAN INARARO NG JEEP; 1 PATAY, 6 SUGATAN
(Irwin Corpuz)
Isa ang nasawi samantalang anim na iba pa ang sugatan matapos mawalan ng preno ang isang jeep at inararo ang ilang kabahayan sa gilid ng kalsada sa Barangay Mambugan, Antipolo City kahapon ng madaling-araw.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/dec0807/main.htm


9. Pilipino Star Ngayon
Sasaklolo kay Ranario: GMA pa-Kuwait
Ni Rudy Andal
Saturday, December 8, 2007
Nakatakdang magtungo sa Kuwait si Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo upang personal na makiusap sa Emir nito na huwag nang ituloy ang pagbitay sa Pinay na si Marilou Ranario.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2007120791

10. Journal
AVING RANARIO GMA flying to Kuwait in last-ditch
effort to halt Pinay maid’s execution
By: Tess Bedico
PRESIDENT Macapagal-Arroyo is pushing through with her plan to make a side trip to Kuwait to personally appeal to the emir of Kuwait to spare the life of Filipino domestic helper Marilou Ranario who was sentenced to death by hanging for killing her employer in 2005.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-12-08&sec=1&aid=41735


11. Business World
Supreme Court sides with Tan on sequestration cases
The Presidential Commission on Good Government (PCGG) does not have enough evidence to sequester assets supposedly "ill-gotten" by business tycoon Lucio Tan and his associates, including those in Allied Banking Corp. and Fortune Tobacco Corporation and Shareholdings, Inc., the Supreme Court yesterday said.
http://www.bworld.com.ph/BW120807/content.php?id=001




12. Business Mirror
RP in top tier of ‘bribe-prone’ spots
By Mia M. Gonzalez
THE Philippines is perceived to be among the countries with the highest incidence of petty bribery, the results of a new poll conducted by Transparency International (TI) showed.
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/1207&082007/headlines01.html


II. POLITICAL
Neri says Palace barred him from testifying
By Dona Pazzibugan
MANILA, Philippines -- Former socio-economic planning secretary Romulo Neri has told the Senate he was prevented by Malacañang from attending further Senate hearings on the aborted $329 million National Broadband Network deal with China’s ZTE Corp.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=105528


The PCGG and Lucio Tan: What Went Before
MANILA, Philippines -- On various dates in 1986 and in January 1987, the newly formed Presidential Commission on Good Government, which is tasked to recover ill-gotten wealth accumulated by ousted dictator Ferdinand Marcos and his associates, ordered the sequestration of shares of stock owned by Lucio Tan and other persons in different corporations.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=105562


A jab at Trillanes was dying writer's last literary gasp
By Gerry Plaza
MANILA, Philippines -- A Serious jab at "adventurist" Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV was his last literary gasp.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=105567

De Venecia vows cheap medicines bill passage before Xmas
By Norman Bordadora
MANILA, Philippines -- Speaker Jose De Venecia on Friday belied “insinuations” the continued delay in the passage of the cheap medicines bill means the House has given in to persistent lobbying by pharmaceutical firms to block the measure.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=105481



Bishop scores Arroyo’s pardon policy
By Beverly T. Natividad
MANILA, Philippines -- A Catholic Bishop has criticized the government’s apparent bias in granting pardon to prominent prison inmates, following the news of former representative Romeo Jalosjos’ impending release.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=105519

GMA dragged into Transco mess
By Christina Mendez
Saturday, December 8, 2007
Opposition Sen. Jamby Madrigal accused yesterday President Arroyo of conflict of interest and of compromising the country’s economic independence when she met with officials of the State Grid of China last year.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071207158

Neri claims Palace told him not to attend ZTE hearings
Saturday, December 8, 2007
Malacañang stopped Chairman Romulo Neri of the Commission on Higher Education from testifying in last month’s Senate investigation into the $329-million national broadband network deal between the government and Chinese firm ZTE Corp., according to Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071207189


Government says corruption being addressed
By Marvin Sy
Saturday, December 8, 2007
Malacañang gave assurance yesterday that the administration continues to take steps to curb corruption in government as the Philippines ranked 10th among countries with the highest level of petty bribery.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071207172


Transparency report inaccurate, says Palace
But Senator Legarda believes low-level corruption is common in government
By Efren L. Danao, Senior Reporter and Angelo S. Samonte, Reporter
Malacañang said the Transparency International (TI) corruption survey, which ranked the Philippines as the 10th most corrupt in the world, may be inaccurate.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/dec/08/yehey/metro/20071208met1.html

Opposition wants President’s intelligence fund slashed
By Sammy Martin, Correspondent
THE opposition wants to give half of the intelligence fund allocated for the Office of the President to the military, police and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) which are more directly involved in intelligence gathering.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/dec/08/yehey/metro/20071208met4.html


GMA flying to Kuwait
Will meet with Emir and plead for Ranario’s life
President back in Manila on Monday morning
By GENALYN D. KABILING
LONDON (via PLDT) — President Arroyo will meet Kuwaiti ruler, Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmad al Sabah, on Sunday to personally appeal to him to spare the life of a Filipino domestic helper convicted of murder.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20071208110916.html


Palace must set example in reducing corruption – Villar
Senate President Manny Villar called yesterday on Malacañang to set the example in reducing and discouraging corruption in government after the Philippines was included in the top 10 countries with the highest incidence of petty bribery.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20071208110917.html


WB pushes shift to high-value crops
By EDU LOPEZ
The World Bank has urged the Philippine government to shift to high-value agriculture with export potential to help increase agriculture incomes where more than 40 percent of the labor force is employed, but which contributes only 14 percent of national output.
http://www.mb.com.ph/BSNS20071208110901.html

Palace won’t let me attend NBN probes, Neri tells senators
12/08/2007
Malacañang has barred former Socio-Economic and Planning Secretary Romulo Neri from attending previous Senate’s inquiries into the botched ZTE-National Broadband Network (NBN) project.
Neri himself confessed this to Senate probers in explaining the reason behind his non-appearance in the called proceedings as he is under threat of being cited for contempt.
“We were surprised by his reply so we’re now preparing a legal discussion so that all senators can provide inputs on how to go about this,” Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano, blue ribbon chairman and overall lead in the joint investigation into the ZTE-NBN deal, yesterday told reporters in an interview.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071208hed2.html
Suhol, sinuhulan, suhulan
Arnold Clavio
Pagdating sa usapin ng katiwalian at anomalya, hindi nakakasama ang bansang Pilipinas.
Halos lahat ng mga international surveys, di maaaring malimutan ang Pilipinas. Top 100, top 50, top 30, top 20 at top 10 sa mga bansang pinaniniwalaan na laganap ang mga ilegal na transaksyon.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/dec0807/main.htm


Bansang lubog sa kahihiyan
Sunud-sunod na kahihiyan sa international community ang dumating sa ating bansa. Nakalubog na ang imahe ng Pilipinas sa mata ng ibang nasyon at mga respetadong institusyong internasyunal.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/dec0807/main.htm


Barya-baryang lagayan... una pa rin ang ‘Pinas!
Sa malakihan man o sa maliitan... ang mga Filipino ay hindi mauunahan.
Mukhang ito ang babagay na "motto" ngayon ng mga Pinoy sa harap ng lumalaganap na imahe ng Pilipinas sa buong mundo tungkol sa CORRUPTION.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/dec0807/main.htm


December 9, 2007 Mind Bullet Inc.
I.BANNER STORIES

1. Philippine Daily Inquirer
RP reaps 11 golds in big SEA Games surge
By Ernesto Gonzales
Inquirer
NAKHON RATCHASIMA, THAILAND -- Athletics finally delivered three and Miguel Molina triumphed again to spark a victory splurge of 11 golds on Saturday that could only lift the Philippines to fourth overall in the 24th Southeast Asian Games here.
http://sports.inquirer.net/inquirersports/inquirersports/view_article.php?article_id=105724

2. The Philippine Star
Warning aired on strong peso
By Aurea Calica

As the Arroyo administration revels in the peso’s robust growth, Sen. Manuel Roxas II is calling for a comprehensive government aid program for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and domestic industries hurt by the local currency’s upsurge.

http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071208117

3. Manila Times
Gawad kalinga’s new executive director sees no hope for unity now
Gawad Kalinga’s Executive Director, Luis Oquiñena, told The Times he saw no hope of unity and reconciliation between the Frank Padilla and Tony Meloto Couples for Christ factions.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/dec/09/yehey/top_stories/20071209top1.html

4. Malaya
Good economists Bad politician
BY REGINA BENGCO
PRESIDENT Arroyo yesterday told British businessmen in London that said she is not a good politician but she is a good economist.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/dec08/news1.htm

5. Manila Bulletin
Leaders call for political ceasefire
Christian and Muslim leaders called yesterday for a political ceasefire to make December truly a month of peace, harmony, and cooperation as it marks the birth of the Messiah who saved mankind from eternal damnation.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20071209111053.html

6. The Daily Tribune
Puno reveals Pen papers showing extensive reforms
The government yesterday painted a grim scenario of an authoritarian government had the group of Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV and Army Brig Gen. Danilo Lim succeeded in taking over the reins of power after calling for the ouster of the Arroyo administration during the Manila Peninsula hotel siege last
http://www.tribune.net.ph/

7. Abante
BUTATA AGAD! Unang 'alas' vs Trillanes at iba pa sablay sa korte
Sablay agad ang unang ebidensyang inilatag ng panig ng gobyerno sa isinusulong na kasong rebelyon laban kay Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV at iba pa kaugnay ng pagkubkob sa Manila Peninsula Hotel sa Makati City noong Nobyembre 29.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/dec0807/main.htm
8. Abante-Tonite
KABAHAYAN INARARO NG JEEP; 1 PATAY, 6 SUGATAN
Isa ang nasawi samantalang anim na iba pa ang sugatan matapos mawalan ng preno ang isang jeep at inararo ang ilang kabahayan sa gilid ng kalsada sa Barangay Mambugan, Antipolo City kahapon ng madaling-araw.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/dec0807/main.htm
9. Pilipino Star Ngayon
Ranario may pag-asa
Nina Joy Cantos at Rudy Andal
Sunday, December 9, 2007
Malaki umano ang pag-asa na makalusot sa bitay ang Pinay domestic helper na si Marilou Ranario.
Inihayag ni Philippine Ambassador to Kuwait Eric Endaya na nananalig ang pamahalaan na ma¬giging positibo ang ga¬gawing pag-apela ni Pangulong Arroyo kay Kuwait Emir Sheik Sabah Al-Ahamad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah para sa executive clemency ni Ranario, 33.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=20071208105



10. Journal
GMA arrives tomorrow
PRESIDENT Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo returns home tomorrow, Monday, after wrapping up her 24-hour working visit to London capped by strings of meetings with leaders of Britain’s business community and a private audience with Her Queen Elizabeth.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-12-09&sec=1&aid=41816

11. Business World
Supreme Court sides with Tan on sequestration cases
The Presidential Commission on Good Government (PCGG) does not have enough evidence to sequester assets supposedly "ill-gotten" by business tycoon Lucio Tan and his associates, including those in Allied Banking Corp. and Fortune Tobacco Corporation and Shareholdings, Inc., the Supreme Court yesterday said.
http://www.bworldonline.com/BW120807/content.php?id=001

12. Business Mirror
RP in top tier of ‘bribe-prone’ spots
By Mia M. Gonzalez
THE Philippines is perceived to be among the countries with the highest incidence of petty bribery, the results of a new poll conducted by Transparency International (TI) showed.
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/1207&082007/headlines01.html
II. POLITICAL
Neri: Instruction not to show up at Senate hearing came from Gloria
BY DENNIS GADIL
FORMER Planning Secretary Romulo Neri has informed the Senate panels investigating the $329 million NBN-ZTE deal that he has been barred by President Arroyo from showing up.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/dec08/news6.htm

Congress gets AFP’s equipment wish list

By Delon Porcalla
Sunday, December 9, 2007
The House of Representatives has received the “wish list” of the Armed Forces of the Philippines as part of its modernization program, a ranking administration lawmaker said yesterday.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071208128



House wants own US Capitol-type police force to secure Batasan
By Delon Porcalla
Sunday, December 9, 2007
Just like in the US Capitol, the leadership of the House of Representatives wants to create its own police force to secure the 16-hectare Batasan complex in Quezon City to prevent another bombing attack.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071208137

Atienza twits LP’s ‘Gang of 5’
By Perseus Echeminada
Sunday, December 9, 2007
Environment Secretary Lito Atienza resumed yesterday his verbal attacks against what he called the “LP Gang of Five” who eased his group out of the recently concluded party election, a move which he said will be detrimental to the reported presidential bid of Sen. Mar Roxas in the 2010 elections.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071208136


Tax court not the proper venue for Pall Mall issue, says DOF usec
By Iris C. Gonzales
Sunday, December 9, 2007
The Court of Tax Appeals (CTA) is not the proper forum for the case of British American Tobacco (BAT), owner of the Pall Mall cigarettes, regarding its excise tax issue, a Finance official said Friday.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Business&p=49&type=2&sec=27&aid=2007120812

National government seeking additional assistance for poor LGUs
THE national government is currently seeking additional assistance from donor countries to assist poor local government units (LGUs) finance their projects, particularly the Project Development and Monitoring Fund (PDMF).
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/1207&082007/economy05.html

Children take Mendiola in a rally
President Gloria Arroyo may be away, but this did not stop 300 children and children’s rights activists from claiming what had always been denied more mature activists: Mendiola Bridge.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/dec/09/yehey/metro/20071209met1.html

Also Cheaper Medicine, other vital measures
THE House of Representatives has expressed confidence it can approve 13 more important bills before Congress goes on the annual Christmas break on December 20.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-12-09&sec=1&aid=41836




RP sa Top 10 ng World's bribery list
Irish Ann Cruz/Boyet Jadulco/Eralyn Prado/Grace Velasco
Hindi na ikinagulat ng Simbahang Katoliko at maging ng ilang senador ang pagkakasama ng Pilipinas sa ‘Top 10’ list ng mga bansang may pinakatalamak na bribery o suhulan.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/dec0807/main.htm

Transco deal inahente ni GMA—Jamby
Iginiit kahapon Sen. Jamby Madrigal ang pagsuspende sa pagbenta ng National Transmission Co. (Transco) upang hindi mabiktima ang sambayanang Filipino sa transaksyong ito na itinuturing na "mother of all scams" na kinasasangkutan ni Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/dec0807/main.htm

EDITORYAL - Mahalaga ang biyahe kaysa Cheaper Medicines Bill?

Sunday, December 9, 2007
PATULOY na nakabitin sa alanganin ang pag¬papasa ng Cheaper Medicines Bill. At mahirap paniwalaan kung ang panukalang batas na ito ay prayoridad ni President Arroyo. Kung totoong pra¬yoridad, hindi na sana isinama sa biyahe niya ang mga kongresistang kaalyado niya para matutukan ang Cheaper Medicines Bill. Ang version ng Cheaper Medicines Bill sa Senado ay matagal nang naipasa. Hindi na nagpatumpik-tumpik pa ang Senado sa pagpapasa ng kanilang version sapag¬kat nakikita marahil nila na kailangang-kailangan na ito ng mahi¬ hirap na mamamayan — lalo ng mga maysakit.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Opinyon&p=50&type=2&sec=56

GMA dared to allow Neri to grace Senate hearings
12/09/2007
Reformists in the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Philippine National Police yesterday dared President Arroyo to allow former Socio-Economic Secretary and now Commission on Higher Education chief Romulo Neri to once again testify before a Senate inquiry if she has nothing to hide.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/nation/20071209nat1.html

Senator alarmed over increase in prison deaths
12/09/2007
The death penalty may have been abolished in the country, but an increasing number of inmates in state prisons are dying by the hundreds every year due to other reasons.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/nation/20071209nat3.html

Power, corruption and Gloria
12/09/2007
Corruption has become a festering issue against the Philippines under the Arroyo administration, so much so that the country, from the time Gloria Arroyo usurped the presidency of the democratically elected and constitutional Joseph Estrada, has been steadily climbing to the top rung of the worl’ds rogue list of the most corrupt. But give it a few more years, and the Philippines under Gloria will definitely top the list of the most corrupt country in the world.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/commentary/20071209com1.html