November 12-19, 2007

November 12, 2007 Mind Bullet Inc.
I.BANNER STORIES

1. Philippine Daily Inquirer
Comelec security beefed up
Cops seek videotape for clues to killing
By Nikko Dizon, Leila Salaverria, Allison Lopez
Inquirer
Last updated 00:58am (Mla time) 11/12/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- The government Sunday pledged to bolster security for officials of the Commission on Elections under death threats, even as police expressed hope video footage would yield clues to the identity of the assassin who gunned down the Comelec’s legal chief on a busy Ermita street.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=100313

2. The Philippine Star
Cops can’t find witnesses
By Edu Punay
Monday, November 12, 2007
Hampered by the lack of witnesses in the murder of Commission on Elections (Comelec) legal department chief Alioden Dalaig, police investigators are now digging up the cases handled by the slain poll official to determine the motive for the killing and find the perpetrator.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=2007111197

3. Manila Times
Erap’s joint assets included
By Jomar Canlas, Reporter
THE antigraft court may go after the assets of Joseph Estrada’s mistresses and children if they are under the former President’s name, an official said Sunday.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/nov/12/yehey/top_stories/20071112top1.html

4. Malaya
Danding lays down terms for JDV ouster
Tells GMA he wants Fuentebella as Speaker
BY WENDELL VIGILIA
NATIONALIST People’s Coalition founder Eduardo Cojuangco will support moves to oust House Speaker Jose de Venecia but only if Camarines Sur Rep. Arnulfo Fuentebella will replace him.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/nov12/news1.htm

5. Manila Bulletin

6. The Daily Tribune
Defensor vows to kill stronger impeach bid
By Gerry Baldo
11/12/2007
The House committee on justice closed the door on a comprehensive impeachment complaint that a broad coalition of critics of President Arroyo will file today after committee chairman Matias Defensor said he will reject it.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071112hed1.html

7. Abante
P9 SA JEEP NAKAUMANG!
(Rose Miranda/Jethro Sinocruz/JB Salarzon/Irish Ann Cruz)
Pilit na pinakakalma ng Malacañang ang publiko sa panibagong taas-pasahe na isinusulong ng mga transport groups kapalit ng pag-abandona sa kanilang bantang malawakan at sabayang tigil-pasada.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/nov1207/main.htm

8. Abante-Tonite
COMELEC OFFICIALS PINAG-IINGAT NA
Nina Irish Ann Cruz at Aries Cano
Matapos ang magkasunod at magkahiwalay na pamamaslang sa dalawang opisyal ng Commission on Elections (Comelec), mahigpit na pinag-iingat naman ngayon ng isang high ranking election official ang iba pang kasamahan at tauhan ng naturang komisyon.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/nov1207/main.htm



9. Pilipino Star Ngayon
Tigil-pasada lalarga na
Nina Rose Tamayo-Tesoro at Danilo Garcia
Monday, November 12, 2007
Anumang araw sa mga susunod na linggo ay sisimulan na ng mga militanteng grupo ng transportasyon ang isang nationwide “transport holiday” bunsod ng walang humpay na pagtaas sa presyo ng langis at sa kawalan umano ng aksiyon ng gobyerno ukol dito.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2007111175

10. Journal
BREAKUP
By: Raul S. Beltran
LEADERS of the Kabalikat ng Malayang Pilipino fear their shaky alliance with the ruling Lakas-CMD could eventually lead to a breakup.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-11-12&sec=1&aid=38561

11. Business World
Net effect of peso rise negative
Majority say well-being unchanged, but more report being ’better off before’
MAJORITY OF FILIPINO FAMILIES say their well-being has not changed much in terms of a stronger peso but the net effect of the currency’s gains is negative in all areas and classes, a new Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey showed.
http://bworld.com.ph/BW111207/content.php?id=001

12. Business Mirror
Jittery steel groups red-flag FTA
By Max de Leon
Reporter
LOCAL steel manufacturers fear that they are in danger of being wiped out by an expected import surge from China once steel is given preferential access to the country under the Association of Southeast Asian Nations-China free-trade agreement (FTA).
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/11122007/headlines01.html








II. POLITICAL
New impeach complaint to be filed today
By Katherine Adraneda
Monday, November 12, 2007
Former vice president Teofisto Guingona, along with militant groups will file another impeachment complaint against President Arroyo before the House
of Representatives today.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071111100

Public participation sought in search for next Comelec chief
By Mayen Jaymalin
Monday, November 12, 2007
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has sought “public” participation in the selection of the next chairman of the poll body to ensure that the next poll chief would be competent and impartial.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071111103

MMDA eyes reviving use of cameras vs traffic violators
By Michael Punongbayan
Monday, November 12, 2007
The Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has proposed the revival of the controversial plan to take photographs of traffic violators in the metropolis and use them as evidence to collect fines.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071111108

ANALYSIS
Resign-snap poll bid has no critical mass
By Amando Doronila
Inquirer
Last updated 03:02am (Mla time) 11/12/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- No one was surprised when civil society launched last week a multisectoral campaign calling for the resignation of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and Vice President Noli de Castro to pave the way for snap election in 60 days. It was predictable, including the composition of the groups and individuals driving the movement.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=100322




EDITORIAL
Replacing Abalos
Inquirer
Last updated 01:07am (Mla time) 11/12/2007
MANILA, Philippines - The idea seemed good on paper. Creat an independent search committee to propose the most qualified candidates for chairman of the Commission on Elections. Theory, however, is no match (as we like to say in the Philippines) for practice—because politics as it is practiced in the Philippines in the post-Estrada impeachment era is motivated not by theory but by self-interest alone. We are afraid that the screening committee may be compromised by the very politics of survival it is supposed to counter.
http://opinion.inquirer.net/inquireropinion/editorial/view_article.php?article_id=100304

SOUNDING BOARD
Jpepa reservations
By Fr. Joaquin G. Bernas, S.J.
Inquirer
Last updated 01:08am (Mla time) 11/12/2007
MANILA, Philippines - In an increasingly globalized world, nation enter into economic partnership with other nations. We did it through our participation in the World Trade Organization (WTO) and once again it is being proposed that we enter into partnership with Japan through a Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement.
http://opinion.inquirer.net/inquireropinion/columns/view_article.php?article_id=100303

Gobyerno kikita ng P1.4B sa imported cars - PASG
Monday, November 12, 2007
Iginiit kahapon ni Presidential Anti-Smuggling Group (PASG) chief Antonio Villar Jr. na kikita ang gob­yerno ng P1.4 bilyon sa pamamagitan ng Voluntary Disclosure Program (VDP) sa sandaling magparehistro ang may 3,000 may-ari ng imported cars.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2007111179

Masarap ang buhay ng kongresista
SAPOL Ni Jarius Bondoc
Monday, November 12, 2007
BAGO magbukas ang 14th Congress, nag-briefing si Budget Sec. Rolando Andaya Jr. sa halos 100 bagitong kongresista ukol sa mga pribilehiyo nila. Kabisado niya ito dahil tatlong termino siya naupo sa Kamara at chairman ng committee on appropriations. Masarap mag-kongresista, umano’y ani Andaya, “puwede pumasok sa trabaho, puwedeng hindi, pero tuloy-tuloy ang suweldo.” Inabisuhan pa niyang huwag na huwag magkakamaling magbayad ng inoorder sa Batasan South Lounge, dahil libre sa kanila ang pagkai’t inumin doon.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Opinyon&p=50&type=2&sec=56&aid=2007111183




House to hear impeachment case
By Maricel V. Cruz, Reporter
Members of the leftist party-list bloc in the House of Representatives are expected to file another impeachment complaint against President Gloria Arroyo today.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/nov/12/yehey/top_stories/20071112top5.html

SPECIAL REPORT: Global competitiveness
Villar cites conquerors of red tape
By Efren L. Danao, Senior Reporter
Senate President Manuel Villar cited Sunday government agencies that have been adopting “out-of-the-box” thinking to reduce red tape, which is choking the country’s business competitiveness.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/nov/12/yehey/top_stories/20071112top6.html

Govt to earn P1.4B from imported vehicles
By William B. Depasupil, Reporter
THE governmeant could earn up to P1.4 billion in additional revenues if the owners of over 3,000 imported vehicles will avail of the Voluntary Disclosure Program (VDP), which requires them to voluntarily pay the right duties and taxes on their vehicles.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/nov/12/yehey/metro/20071112met7.html

Dalaig kin tags Bedol in poll official’s slay
11/12/2007
The family of slain Com-mission on Elections (Comelec) official Alioden Dalaig has tagged former Maguindanao poll supervisor Lintang Bedol in the poll official’s killing in Malate, Manila on Saturday night.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071112hed2.html

Get act together on Jpepa, state told
11/12/2007
Malacañang has been called on to get its act together in providing the Senate with sufficient information on the clear benefits and potential drawbacks that the country would face in relation to the controversial Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (Jpepa).
http://www.tribune.net.ph/nation/20071112nat5.html

Gov’t losing P1.4B due to unpaid duties, taxes on imported vehicles
By Sherwin C. Olaes
11/12/2007
The government is losing an estimated P1.4 billion in additional revenues due to the failure of some 3,000 imported vehicles to avail themselves of the Voluntary Disclosure Program (VDP) after they were discovered to have questionable documents despite being registered with the Land Transportation Office (LTO) this year.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/metro/20071112met1.html

Panel chief says impeach rap junked within month
THE "sham" impeachment complaint filed by lawyer Roel Pulido last Oct. 5 against President Arroyo will be dismissed before December, the chairman of the House committee on justice said Saturday.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/nov12/news3.htm

JPEPA: What now?
Former Vice President Teofisto Guingona Jr: "The Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (JPEPA) is one-sided and unfairly favoring Japanese interests.
"The unfair and one-sided provisions of the JPEPA encroach on the rights of the Filipinos to chart their own destiny."
http://www.malaya.com.ph/nov12/eddahli.htm

Gov’t to earn P1.4B from VDP -- PASG
THE government could earn up to P1.4 billion in additional revenues once the owners of over 3,000 imported cars that were able to register their vehicles with the Land Transportation Office this year, despite having questionable documents, will avail of the Voluntary Disclosure Program.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-11-12&sec=1&aid=38510

Dalaig big loss to Comelec -- Abalos
By: Alex Silva
FORMER Commission on Elections Chairman Benjamin Abalos Sr. said that the killings of Comelec law department chief Alioden Dalaig has something to do with his job.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-11-12&sec=1&aid=38547

Comelec mourns Dalaig
By: Lee Ann P. Ducusin with AFP
THE Commission on Elections is in mourning following the killing Saturday night of its law department chief in Manila .
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-11-12&sec=1&aid=38562

Gov’t safety nets vs JPEPA urged
By: Bernadette E. Tamayo
THE government must provide safety nets to those sectors that may be adversely affected should the Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (JPEPA) is ratified by the Senate.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-11-12&sec=4&aid=38505

Get act together on JPEPA -- Roxas
SENATOR Mar Roxas has called on the executive branch to get its act together in providing the Senate with sufficient information on the clear benefits and potential drawbacks that the country would face in relation to the Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (JPEPA).
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-11-12&sec=4&aid=38512

DTI clarifies requirements for nurses underJPEPA
THE Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) has clarified that academic degree and work experience required of Filipino nurses and caregivers under the Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement are not peculiar to Japan-based professionals.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-11-12&sec=4&aid=38559


November 13, 2007 Mind Bullet Inc.
I.BANNER STORIES

1. Philippine Daily Inquirer
House OKs impeach case–but only in form
By Norman Bordadora
Inquirer
Last updated 01:03am (Mla time) 11/13/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- The House committee on justice, moving swiftly after the minority walked out and called the proceedings a “sham,” Monday declared an impeachment complaint filed against President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to be sufficient in form.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=100540

2. The Philippine Star
House junks Tamano impeach complaint
By Delon Porcalla
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
The House committee on justice upheld yesterday its rejection of the “addendum and supplemental” impeachment complaint of opposition spokesman Adel Tamano and declared the original case filed by lawyer Roel Pulido “sufficient in form.”
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071112176

3. Manila Times
Impeachment case a ‘sham’
Golez leads walkout but hearing goes on
By Maricel V. Cruz, Reporter
Members of the opposition in the House of Representatives walked out of Monday’s hearing on an impeachment complaint against President Gloria Arroyo that was filed by a lawyer in October.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/nov/13/yehey/top_stories/20071113top1.html

4. Malaya
Minority slams impeach ‘moro moro’, walks out
GMA allies nix inhibition of ‘cash gift’ recipients
THE initial hearing on the impeachment complaint against President Arroyo yesterday by the House committee on justice turned rowdy as opposition lawmakers walked out after her allies dismissed their plea to reconsider the "legitimate" complaints.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/nov13/news1.htm

5. Manila Bulletin
House OKs P1.227-trillion budget
Panel finds Pulido impeach suit sufficient in form
Lower House sends 2008 budget bill to Senate
By BEN R. ROSARIO
The House of Representatives approved on third and final reading last night the proposed P1.227 trillion General Appropriations Act for 2008 even as congressional leaders aired hopes that the early approval would avert another reenactment of the budget measure.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20071113108463.html

6. The Daily Tribune
‘Cash gifts’ from Palace via PNP intel funds
By Angie M. Rosales
11/13/2007
The P500,000-cash bribes stashed in brown gift bags handed to congressmen and local executives didn’t come from the governors’ league, nor from President Arroyo’s political party Kampi (Kabalikat ng Malayang Pilipino) but from the intelligence and counterinsurgency funds of the Philippine National Police (PNP) — at least P160 million worth in cash — further bolstering charges that the cash bribes were handed out with the knowledge and consent of Mrs. Arroyo, having allegedly taken this from the police intelligence budget, over which she exercises control.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071113hed1.html

7. Abante
'SUHOL' KINUPIT SA PNP -- PING
Nina BOYET JADULCO, NILO MARASIGAN at ROSE MIRANDA
Ibinunyag kahapon ni Sen. Panfilo Lacson na galing sa pondo ng Philippine National Police (PNP) ang P500,000 na ipinamudmod sa mga kongresista at gobernador sa Malacañang noong Oktubre 11.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/nov1307/main.htm




8. Abante-Tonite
‘BAG LADY’ NI GLORIA HIHILAHIN SA SENADO
Ni Rey Marfil
Kung nagawang iwasan ang Hello Garci probe ng Senado, hindi malulusutan ng mga alipores ng Malacañang, partikular ng babaeng itinuturing na "bag lady" ni Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo ang kaliwa’t kanang suhulan matapos ilutang ang pagpapaaresto kapag tinanggihan ang subpoena.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/nov1307/main.htm

9. Pilipino Star Ngayon
GMA pumalag!
Ni Rudy Andal
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Muling nanawagan si Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo sa mga mambabatas na itigil na muna ang sobrang pamumulitika bagkus ay bigyang prayoridad ang paglikha ng batas na lalong kinakailangan ng taumbayan.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=200711126

10. Journal
WALKOUT
By: Jester P. Manalastas
Opposition boycotts impeach hearing after House rejects supplemental complaint
THE House of Representatives yesterday declared the impeachment complaint filed by lawyer Roel Pulido against President Macapagal-Arroyo sufficient in form but the first hearing was marred by a walkout staged by opposition congressmen.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-11-13&sec=1&aid=38653

11. Business World
First Pacific-owned firm dunned P8.5B
THE GOVERNMENT IS RUNNING AFTER some P8.52 billion in dividends due from an indirect stake in telecommunications giant Philippine Long Distance Telephone Co. (PLDT) that it had sold earlier this year.
http://bworld.com.ph/BW111307/content.php?id=001







12. Business Mirror
House okays ’08 budget of P1.2T
RESTRICTIONS ON DUBIOUS DEBT PAYMENTS, ACTIVE WORK OF WATCHDOGS MAKE BILL UNIQUE
By Fernan Marasigan
Reporter
THE House of Representatives on Monday approved on third and final reading the P1.227-trillion national government budget for 2008, with the education sector getting a hefty augmentation of P6.436 billion in the general appropriations bill.
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/11132007/headlines01.html

II. POLITICAL
Strong peso hurts 30%, helps 13%; no effect on 57%
By Helen Flores
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
About five million Filipino families said they were adversely affected by the strengthening of the peso against the US dollar, saying their well-being has not changed much, a recent survey of the Social Weather Stations (SWS) showed.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071112180

House OKs Palace-approved P1.227-trillion budget for 2008
By Jess Diaz
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
The House of Representatives, voting 174-8, approved President Arroyo’s proposed P1.227-trillion national budget for 2008 on third and final reading yesterday.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071112181

GMA security advisers rushing draft amendments to HSA
By Paolo Romero
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Security officials disclosed that a draft is being prepared to propose amendments to the anti-terrorism law or the Human Security Act (HSA), which includes reducing penalties for policemen and other law enforcement agents who commit wrongful arrests or human rights violations while conducting counter-terror operations.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071112186






GMA releases P200 million for cheap rice, mobile clinics
By Marvin Sy
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
President Arroyo has ordered the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor) to release a total of P200 million for the purpose of keeping the price of low-cost rice stable and for the establishment of new mobile clinics across the country.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071112192

Congress urged to pass bill creating ICT dep’t
By Paolo Romero
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
The Commission on Information and Communications Technology (CICT) is asking Congress to immediately pass into law a measure seeking the creation of a Department of ICT along with the Philippine Anti-Cybercrime bill to ensure the continuous growth and global competitiveness of the country’s ICT industry.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071112195

Too much politics
FIRST PERSON By Alex Magno
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
For the third straight year, an impeachment complaint has been filed against the President of the Republic. The initial complaint has been amended and supplemented, a case has been filed with the Supreme Court seeking a ruling on the supplements, and so much television talk time has been expended allowing the usual complainants to talk about their complaints.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Opinion&p=49&type=2&sec=25&aid=20071112112

House OKs P1.2-Tr budget for 2008 on third reading
By Maila Ager
Last updated 05:44pm (Mla time) 11/12/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- Voting 174-8, with no abstentions, the House of Representatives has approved on third and final reading the proposed P1.227 trillion national budget for 2008.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=100452

PNP denies funds used for Palace cash gift
By Thea Alberto
Last updated 05:27pm (Mla time) 11/12/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- Saying it only had meager funds, the Philippine National Police (PNP) denied Monday that its money was being diverted for other purposes as claimed by its former chief and now Senator Panfilo "Ping" Lacson.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=100448



Senators want possible link to poll execs’ slays probed
Gordon suspects Comelec ‘mafia’
By Veronica Uy
INQUIRER.net
Last updated 05:15pm (Mla time) 11/12/2007
MANILA , Philippines -- Two senators on Monday urged authorities to establish if there is any link between the murders of two Commission on Elections (Comelec) officials over the weekend -- Comelec legal department head Alioden Dalabia Dalaig and Bacoor poll officer Joseph del Rosario.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=100446

Santiago seeks supplemental agreement to JPEPA

By Veronica Uy
INQUIRER.net
Last updated 04:13pm (Mla time) 11/12/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- The controversial Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement should be accompanied by a supplemental agreement because the treaty in its current form “fails to make a reservation for future preferential, protective, or development measures over Japanese investments,” Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago said Monday.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=100432

POLITICAL TIDBITS
Economic cluster should explain NorthRail project
By Belinda Olivares-Cunanan
Inquirer
Last updated 00:51am (Mla time) 11/13/2007
WE FLEW to Honolulu via PAL for a few days to attend the wedding of a Cunanan niece. Catching up on back issues, I realized I missed a lot of developments. I feel sorry that controversy seems to have surfaced anew with regard to the NorthRail project. I have supported this project since it was being negotiated, for I have always believed that no country can industrialize and develop without an efficient railway system. In our case, this project complements the development of our agri-business mega-region in the north. Having traveled around the world, including in Third World countries, often by rail, I always feel ashamed every time my vehicle is stopped at the Buendia Avenue crossing in Makati to allow those decrepit trains to pass (even Cambodia has better trains). I also felt happy about the prospect of decongesting Metro Manila by having modern trains bring people to work in the metropolis and transport them back to the suburbs.
http://opinion.inquirer.net/inquireropinion/columns/view_article.php?article_id=100524






Minority Solons nag-walkout
Ni Butch Quejada
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Nag-walk out kahapon ang minority solons sa isinagawang pagdinig ng Committe on Justice tungkol sa Pulido impeachment complaint laban kay Pangulo Arroyo.
Nanggagalaiti sa galit si Bukidnon Rep. Teofisto Guingona III dahil lokohan umano ang ginagawang pro­seso sa Kongreso at hindi makikisali ang minorya kaya nilayasan nila ang pagdinig ng komite.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=200711127

House passes ’08 proposed budget
Voting 174-8, the House of Representatives on Monday approved on third and final reading the Malacañang-proposed P1.227-trillion national budget for 2008.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/nov/13/yehey/top_stories/20071113top4.html

EDITORIAL
Questionable aid
OFFICIAL development assistance (ODA) is not truly the great investment many donor countries portray it to be, or the indispensable lifeline that governments wish the people to believe.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/nov/13/yehey/opinion/20071113opi1.html

Cheap rice, mobile clinics to be made available
By GENALYN D. KABILING
In another early Christmas gift to the masses, President Arroyo ordered the release yesterday of R200 million for the availability of cheap rice in local markets as well as the establishment of mobile clinics in the countryside.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20071113108467.html

House panel finds Pulido impeach suit sufficient in form
The Committee on Justice of the House of Representatives, whose members are mostly administration allies, yesterday found the impeachment complaint against President Arroyo sufficient in form even as seven opposition congressmen staged a walkout.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20071113108468.html

JPEPA needs a supplemental agreement – Miriam
Sen. Miriam Defensor Santiago, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, said Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (JPEPA) needs to be accompanied by a Supplemental Agreement because the treaty in its present form fails to make a reservation for future preferential, protective, or development measures over Japanese investments.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20071113108470.html

There are no safe firecrackers, says DoH
By JENNY F. MANONGDO
The Department of Health (DoH) will propose a legislation that will ban all kinds of fireworks and firecrackers by 2010.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MTNN20071113108476.html

House junks supplemental bid, minority walks out and Charlie V. Manalo
11/13/2007
By Gerry Baldo
Walkouts appear to be in political vogue these days, with the members of the opposition in the House of Representatives being the latest group to walk out of the impeachment proceedings against President Arroyo.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071113hed2.html

Santiago worried Jpepa defeat at SC to shame GMA
By Angie M. Rosales
11/13/2007
Administration Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago yesterday expressed concern of President Arroyo being embarrassed when the oppositors to the trade agreement she had forged with the Japanese government bring the constitutionality issue of the pact before the Supreme Court (SC) and the high tribunal rules in favor of voiding the accord.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/nation/20071113nat1.html

Senate asks COA for papers on $113M NorthRail releases
THE Senate yesterday asked the Commission on Audit (COA) to submit documents on the disbursement of the $113 million mobilization fund for the $500 million NorthRail project.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/nov13/news5.htm

GMA taps Pagcor for P200M for mobile clinics, cheap rice
PRESIDENT Arroyo yesterday ordered the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor) to release P100 million for mobile clinics and another P100 million to ensure that affordable rice is available to the poor during the holidays.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/nov13/news8.htm

JPEPA supplemental pact needed: Miriam
SEN. Miriam Defensor-Santiago yesterday said Malacañang needs to submit a supplemental agreement to increase the chances of a Senate approval of the Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (JPEPA).
http://www.malaya.com.ph/nov13/metro1.htm



Oposisyon hands off na sa impeachment
(Bernard Taguinod/Eralyn Prado)
Tuluyan nang sumuko ang oposisyon sa kanilang pakikipaglaban para sa tunay na impeachment complaint laban kay Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo matapos ibasura ng mga alipores ng administrasyon ang mga mas matitibay na reklamo.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/nov1307/main.htm

GMA releases P200-M to buy rice
By: Efren Montano
PRESIDENT Arroyo yesterday released P200 million for the government to buy rice as the Christmas season draws near, even as she belittled the latest moves of her political rivals to impeach her.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-11-13&sec=4&aid=38649

Nene rebuffs import of used cars
By: Bernadette E. Tamayo
SENATE Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel, Jr. is against the importation of second-hand cars from Japan under the Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-11-13&sec=4&aid=38669

House okays P1.2T 2008 budget
By: Jester P. Manalastas
THE House of Representatives approved on third and final reading the P1.227 trillion proposed 2008 national budget.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-11-13&sec=4&aid=38693



November 14, 2007 Mind Bullet Inc.
I.BANNER STORIES

1. Philippine Daily Inquirer
Bomb rocks Congress; solon among 3 killed
By Maila Ager, Thea Alberto, Nonoy Espina, Joel Guinto, Lira Dalangin-Fernandez
INQUIRER.net
Last updated 03:58am (Mla time) 11/14/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- (UPDATE 19) A bomb exploded at the House of Representatives in Quezon City Tuesday evening killing Basilan Representative Wahab Akbar, the driver of another lawmaker and a member of the staff of yet another solon.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/topstories/topstories/view_article.php?article_id=100700

2. The Philippine Star
2 dead in Batasan blast
By Delon Porcalla
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
A suspected car bomb exploded outside the entrance lobby of the Batasan complex in Quezon City last night, killing Basilan Rep. Wahab Akbar and a driver and wounding at least 12 others.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071113187

3. Manila Times
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Explosion rocks Congress
A powerful blast rocked the south wing of the House of Representatives in Quezon City just before 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, killing two and injuring at least 12 others, authorities said.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/nov/14/yehey/top_stories/20071114top1.html


4. Malaya
1 dead, 3 solons hurt in Batasan explosion
Bomb planted inside Basilan lawmaker’s vehicle
ONE person died and at least three congressmen and seven staff members were hurt when a suspected bomb exploded at the Batasang Pambansa last night.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/nov14/news1.htm

5. Manila Bulletin
Papal Nuncio welcomed with mass
Adams called worthy envoy of Pope Benedict XVI
Filipino cardinals, bishops, & officials greet new nuncio in rites held at Manila Cathedral
By LESLIE ANN G. AQUINO
Feel at home with us.
This was the message of Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) president and Jaro, Iloilo Archbishop Angel Lagdameo to Papal Nuncio Archbishop Edward Joseph Adams, who was formally welcomed to the country yesterday at the Manila Cathedral in Intramuros, Manila.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20071114108535.html

6. The Daily Tribune
Batasan blast kills 1, hurts 20
By Gerry Baldo and Charlie Manalo
11/14/2007
An explosion tore through the south wing lobby of the legislative Batasan Pambansa building in Quezon City, killing one person and hurting at least two congressmen and six others, witnesses told reporters at press time.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071114hed1.html

7. Abante
ERAP LALABAN NANG PATAYAN!
Nina JB SALARZON, NOEL ABUEL at ROSE MIRANDA
"Kung determinado sila na kumpiskahin ang aking mga ari-arian, determinado rin akong lumaban. I’m ready to die para sa aking pinaghirapan ng pawis at dugo."
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/nov1407/main.htm




8. Abante-Tonite
KAMARA BINOMBA!
Kongresista patay
Tonite Reportorial Team
sang matinding pagsabog ang yumanig sa Mababang Kapulungan ng Kongreso kagabi kung saan dalawa katao ang namatay kabilang ang isang kongresista habang lima pa ang sugatan na kinabibilangan ng dalawa pang mambabatas.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/nov1407/main.htm

9. Pilipino Star Ngayon
Nakalilitong probe sa Glorietta binira
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Nawawalan umano ng kredibilidad ang imbestigasyon ng pamahalaan sa Glorietta 2 explosion sa Makati dahil sa doble-dobleng imbestigasyon na “nakalilito”.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2007111351

10. Journal
BLAST!
Solon dies in Batasan bomb attack
By Alfred Dalizon, Ryan Pacpaco,
Jester Manalastas, Efren Montano, Jess Antiporda
BASILAN Rep. Wahab Akbar and a driver of a lady solon died while at least nine people were injured, including Reps. Henry Teves and Luzviminda Ilagan, following a powerful explosion that ripped through the south wing of the Batasang Pambansa complex past 8 o’clock last night.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-11-14&sec=1&aid=38837

11. Business World
BY BERNARDETTE S. STO. DOMINGO, Reporter
Exporters giving up on growth
‘No point in aiming for a higher target’ — Philexport
LOCAL EXPORTERS ARE LOOKING to further slash this year’s growth targets given the continued weakening of the dollar against the peso, the country’s leading export group yesterday said.
http://bworld.com.ph/BW111407/content.php?id=001




12. Business Mirror
Basilan Rep. Wahab Akbar, 2 others killed as bomb explodes in Batasan
REPS. TEVES AND ILAGAN, AT LEAST SEVEN OTHERS WOUNDED
A BOMB tore through the South Wing of the House of Representatives at the Batasan Complex in Quezon City just minutes after congressmen adjourned past 8 p.m. Tuesday night, killing
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/11142007/headlines01.html

II. POLITICAL
Erap pardon may be revoked
By Marvin Sy And Jose Rodel Clapano
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
The government may revoke its grant of pardon to former President Joseph Estrada if he makes good on his threat to resist “till death” the forfeiture of his assets, worth P545 million, by the Sandiganbayan.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071113134

Anti-GMA forces seek SC help on impeachment complaint
By Delon Porcalla
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Critics turned to the Supreme Court yesterday to clarify its ruling on the one-year prohibition in filing a second impeachment complaint.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071113135

JDV rejects Enrile’s debate dare
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr. refused yesterday to take up the challenge of Sen. Juan Ponce Enrile to engage in a public debate.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071113141

House passes P1-trillion 2008 budget
By Christian V. Esguerra
Inquirer
Last updated 05:22am (Mla time) 11/13/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- The House of Representatives on Monday passed on third and final reading the country’s first trillion-peso budget.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=100571


CA gives way to impeach hearing
By Christina Mendez
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
The Commission on Appointments has postponed today’s scheduled hearing on the appointment of Social Welfare Secretary Esperanza Cabral at the request of the CA panel from the House, which is busy hearing impeachment raps filed against President Arroyo.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071113145

EDITORIAL
Stuck in a trap
Inquirer
Last updated 11:40pm (Mla time) 11/13/2007
MANILA, Philippines--THE VERY FIRST PRESIDENT OF THE PHILIPPINES to face an impeachment complaint was Elpidio Quirino. Anyone interested in the origins of a now all-too-familiar process in our political life should refer to Quirino’s memoirs, published by the National Historical Institute. Simply put, the House of Representatives in 1949 handled things much better than the Houses of 2000, or 2005 to the present.
http://opinion.inquirer.net/inquireropinion/editorial/view_article.php?article_id=100708

ANALYSIS
Political scandals undermining the economy
By Amando Doronila
Inquirer
Last updated 11:57pm (Mla time) 11/13/2007
MANILA, Philippines--ONLY A FORTNIGHT AGO, A REGIONAL economist of the British banking giant, Hong Kong Shanghai Banking Corp., warned that the political scandals rocking the government could halt the momentum of economic growth that has seen the Gross Domestic Product grow to a record 7.5 percent in the second quarter of 2007 in a period of uninterrupted growth over 27 quarters.
http://opinion.inquirer.net/inquireropinion/columns/view_article.php?article_id=100713

Opinion
Pulido, San Luis earn their place in history
GOTCHA By Jarius Bondoc
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
If what people suspect about them is true, Atty. Roel Pulido and Rep. Edgar San Luis must be very happy now. Their alleged sinister designs are coming true. As predicted Congress upheld as sufficient in form the sham impeachment case they had filed and endorsed respectively against Gloria Arroyo. It was all part of their ploy in rustling up an empty rap against the President before the opposition could draft a real one. When oppositionist Adel Tamano tried to save the day by fortifying the three-page Pulido-San Luis scrap with 38 pages of evidence, Congress, again expectedly, rejected him. Tomorrow the last act of the charade will unfold for sure. Congress will declare the work of Pulido and San Luis as what it really is: insufficient in substance. And so Arroyo will be spared 12 months of indictment, under the constitutional rule of one impeachment complaint per year per official. Just like what happened same time 2005 and 2006.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Opinion&p=49&type=2&sec=25&aid=2007111397


House panel tackles cigarette excise tax issue
By BEN R. ROSARIO
A British investor engaged in cigarette manufacturing yesterday assailed local competitors for allegedly misleading the public on the controversy surrounding the excise tax classification of his firm’s Pall Mall brand.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20071114108543.html

House panel to 'bury' GMA impeach case today
By BEN R. ROSARIO
Dominated by allies of President Arroyo, the Committee on Justice in the House of Representatives is expected to bury the impeachment case against her when the panel resumes deliberation on the issue today.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MTNN20071114108544.html

Senate to study anti-poverty programs in 2008 nat’l budget
By HANNAH L. TORREGOZA
Despite being preoccupied with several controversial investigations and pertinent bills, the Senate will work hard in scrutinizing all anti-poverty programs in the proposed R1.227-trillion national budget for 2008 approved by the House of Representatives last Monday.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MTNN20071114108545.html

‘Friendly’ budget & impeachment
By Fred M. Lobo
THE House of Representatives approves the P1.2- trillion national budget and likewise accepts the allegedly "sham" impeachment complaint against President GMA.
http://www.mb.com.ph/OPED20071114108555.html

GMA allies set to tras himpeach charge today
THE impeachment complaint against President Arroyo filed by lawyer Roel Pulido last Oct. 5 is expected to be junked today by the House committee on justice for insufficiency of substance.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/nov14/news2.htm

SC rejects ‘no harm no foul’ claim on ZTE deal
THE Supreme Court yesterday rejected the government’s "no harm no foul" argument on the cancelled $329 million national broadband network contract as it gave petitioners seeking to probe the contract 10 days to comment on the solicitor general’s motion seeking the dismissal of all suits pertaining to the project on the ground that it has been cancelled.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/nov14/news4.htm





P56M loss seen yearly from tax break for Pall Mall
LAWMAKERS yesterday warned that the government would lose P56 million in taxes yearly if the Department of Finance allows the downward re-classification of Pall Mall cigarettes, a locally-manufactured foreign brand.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/nov14/news6.htm

Lacson raps on PNP funds diversion foul, baseless — Puno
By Angie M. Rosales and Sherwin C. Olaes
11/14/2007
Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Ronaldo Puno yesterday cried foul over the “baseless” and “unsubstantiated” charges aired by Sen. Panfilo “Ping” Lacson who disclosed Monday that the funds used for the “cash gifts” to congressmen and local executives distributed in Malacañang last Oct. 11 were sourced from from the Philip-pine National Police’s (PNP) P1-billion counter-insurgency funds.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071114hed2.html

House kills Pulido ‘token’ impeachment case today
11/14/2007
As what some sectors have been expecting, the House committee on justice is being seen to dismiss the impeachment complaint filed by former Magdalo lawyer Ruel Pulido against President Arroyo — which has been deemed a mere ploy by Malacañang intended to preempt a more substantial impeachment case to be lodged by the opposition against her — for insufficiency in substance during the panel’s resumption of its hearing on the case today.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071114hed3.html

SC puts on hold Solgen’s ZTE-NBN deal dismissal plea
11/14/2007
Win some, lose some, or at least a part of it initially.
Government lawyers’ plea for the dismissal of the suits questioning the $329-million ZTE-National Broadband Network (NBN) deal has not prompted an immediate nod from the Supreme Court (SC).
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071114hed6.html

Puno, Razon blast Lacson over cash gifts
By: Alfred P. Dalizon With a report from Fernando M. Cariaso
DEPARTMENT of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Ronaldo V. Puno and Philippine National Police chief, Director General Avelino I. Razon Jr. yesterday strongly denied Sen. Panfilo M. Lacson’s claim that the P500,000 “cash gifts” distributed to congressmen and governors in Malacañang last month were misrouted from the police’s counter-insurgency budget.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-11-14&sec=4&aid=0



JPEPA needs supplemental agreement - Miriam
By: Bernadette E. Tamayo
THE controversial Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreements needs to be accompanied by a “supplemental agreement” because the treaty in its present form fails to make a reservation for future preferential, protective, or development measures over Japanese investments, Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago said yesterday.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-11-14&sec=4&aid=38783

P83-M cigarette tax loss decried
By: Jester P. Manalastas
THE government has been losing at least P83 million from unpaid excise tax on cigarettes in the last 18 months.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-11-14&sec=4&aid=38796

Villar: Early budget passage to lift economy
By: Paul M. Gutierrez
SENATE President Manuel Villar yesterday assured that the Upper Chamber would pass the 2008 budget as scheduled, adding its speedy passage would help boost the economy.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-11-14&sec=4&aid=38807

Strict rules for foreign aid programs to prevent corruption -- Loren
SENATOR Loren Legarda, chairman of the Senate committee on economic affairs, yesterday said she would ask the Senate to pass remedial legislation providing for safeguards in the disbursement of Overseas Development Assistance (ODA) funds to prevent corruption and ensure accountability.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-11-14&sec=4&aid=38817

SOLONS TINATAKOT NA SA IMPEACHMENT
Hindi man direkta, mistulang tinatakot umano ng Malacañang ang mga kongresista, oposisyon man at kasapi ng majority bloc sa Kamara, sa impeachment case na kinakaharap ni Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/nov1407/main.htm


November 15, 2007 Mind Bullet Inc.
I.BANNER STORIES

1. Philippine Daily Inquirer
PNP: Akbar was target
Basilan politics eyed in bombing
By Alcuin Papa, Arlyn dela Cruz
Mindanao Bureau
Last updated 01:55am (Mla time) 11/15/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- By virtue of his “color,” Basilan Rep. Wahab Akbar was the likely target of the bomb that exploded on Tuesday night, the Philippine National Police said Wednesday.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=100986

2. The Philippine Star
‘Target was Akbar’
By Cecille Suerte Felipe and Paolo Romero
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Police said yesterday controversial Muslim rebel-turned-politician Rep. Wahab Akbar was the target of a deadly bomb explosion outside the Batasang Pambansa Tuesday night, which killed him and three others.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071114129

3. Manila Times
Bomb meant for Rep. Akbar
Death toll creeps up to 4, with 10 injured in attack
A controversial Muslim congressman was the target of a powerful bomb outside the House of Representatives that killed him and three others, police said Wednesday.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/nov/15/yehey/top_stories/20071115top1.html

4. Malaya
‘Slain Basilan solon was target’
Bomb on motorcycle triggered by cell phone
BY RAYMOND AFRICA
BASILAN Rep. Wahab Akbar was most likely the target of the bomb attack at the House of Representatives Tuesday night, PNP chief Avelino Razon said yesterday.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/nov15/news1.htm

5. Manila Bulletin

6. The Daily Tribune
Death toll rises to 4 in House bomb blast
11/15/2007
The death toll from a powerful bomb blast in the south lobby of the sprawling complex of the House of Representatives has risen to four at press time after an injured aide of Basilan Rep. Wahab Akbar, who was first to be killed by the bomb blast, died due to the wounds he suffered from the bomb blast, officials said Wednesday.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071115hed1.html

7. Abante
SI AKBAR ANG TARGET!
Nina Nilo Marasigan, Al Jacinto, Rose Miranda, Eralyn Prado, Boyet Jadulco, Tina Mendoza at Armida Rico
Si Basilan Rep. Wahab Akbar ang umano’y talagang target ng pagbomba kamakalawa ng gabi sa Batasan Complex, ayon kay Philippine National Police Chief General Avelino Razon Jr., kaugnay ng patuloy na pagsisiyasat sa insidente na kumitil ng buhay ng tatlo pang katao at ikinasugat ng may 13 iba pa.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/nov1507/main.htm

8. Abante-Tonite
KAMARA AMINADONG PUMALPAK SA SEGURIDAD
Ni Bernard Taguinod
Inamin kahapon ng liderato ng Kamara na nagkaroon ng security lapses kaya nakapasok ang bomber na pumatay sa apat na katao kabilang na si Basilan Rep. Wahab Akbar at nakasugat ng labing-isa pa.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/nov1507/main.htm




9. Pilipino Star Ngayon
Impeach vs GMA ibinasura
Nina Butch Quejada at Rudy Andal
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Ibinasura ng House Committee on Justice ang inihaing impeachment complaint ni Atty. Ruel Pulido laban kay Pangulong Gloria Macapagal Arroyo dahil sa kakulangan umano ng sustansiya.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2007111461

10. Journal
P5-M FOR BOMBERS
By: Tess Bedico
PRESIDENT Macapagal-Arroyo yesterday put up a P5 million reward for information that could lead to the arrest of the perpetrators of the bombing.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-11-15&sec=1&aid=38931

11. Business World
ASEAN to approve economic blueprint
SOUTHEAST ASIAN LEADERS ARE SCHEDULED TO APPROVE next week a document aimed at integrating their economies into a single market and production base by 2015 through the removal of barriers to trade as well as the opening up of service industries.
http://bworld.com.ph/BW111507/content.php?id=001

12. Business Mirror
P1.9-B BIR shortfall puzzles DOF
By Jun Vallecera
Reporter
THE percentage tax collection of the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) failed to measure up in the first nine months and forced the Department of Finance (DOF) to question whether leaks in the system or inefficiency on the part of collectors brought the actual tax take to only P32.4 billion.
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/11152007/headlines01.html

II. POLITICAL
Impeachment complaint lies in state in House
By Norman Bordadora, Christian V. Esguerra
Inquirer
Last updated 06:55am (Mla time) 11/14/2007

MANILA, Philippines -- On Monday, the House committee on justice moved to kill the impeachment complaint filed by lawyer Roel Pulido against President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo by declaring it sufficient in form. The committee deliberations were to resume Wednesday and a declaration that it lacked substance was expected.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=100765

Impeach rap vs GMA junked
By Delon Porcalla
Thursday, November 15, 2007
A committee of the House of Representatives yesterday threw out the impeachment complaint filed by lawyer Roel Pulido against President Arroyo in a ruling snubbed by opposition lawmakers.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071114133

Poll: Amid ZTE scandal, public distrust of GMA up
By Helen Flores
Thursday, November 15, 2007

Amid the ZTE bribery and cash handout scandals, public trust in President Arroyo took a beating last month while her disapproval rating ranked highest among the country’s top five national officials, a recent survey shows.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071114134

Food supply stable for the holidays – Palace
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Malacañang gave assurance yesterday of ample supply of rice, chicken and other agricultural produce in the coming holiday season even as officials said the government is exerting efforts to maintain stable consumer prices.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071114138

Government to seize P215.8 M of Erap Muslim Youth Foundation
Thursday, November 15, 2007
The bank holding more than P215.8 million in the name of the Erap Muslim Youth Foundation has been ordered to transfer the seized amount to the Sandiganbayan.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071114139

Senate probes to derail passage of budget – Andaya
By Paolo Romero
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Budget Secretary Rolando Andaya Jr. yesterday expressed fear the numerous investigations in the Senate might derail the timely passage of the P1.227-trillion national budget for next year.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071114141

Erap urges government to prioritize livelihood programs for poor
By Jose Rodel Clapano
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Pardoned former President Joseph Estrada asked the Arroyo administration to prioritize the livelihood program for the poor in the countryside to avoid another suicide case similar to Marianeth Amper’s, the girl who took her life in Davao City because of poverty.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071114142

P5-M reward alok ni GMA
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Naglaan ng P5 milyong reward si Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo sa sinumang makakapagbigay ng impormasyon para agad na matukoy at maaresto ang nasa likod ng pambobomba sa Batasan kamakalawa ng gabi na ikinasawi ng 3 katao kabilang si Basilan Rep. Wahab Akbar.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2007111465

Modern-day slave trade
Inquirer
Last updated 11:27pm (Mla time) 11/14/2007
WHAT IS shocking in the Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (JPEPA) is not the trade in toxic wastes (of which the Philippines is the primary garbage dump), but the trade in persons, specifically nurses, with the Philippine government as the chief slave trader.
http://opinion.inquirer.net/inquireropinion/letterstotheeditor/view_article.php?article_id=100948

Senators question sale of PNOC-EDC
By Efren L. Danao, Senior Reporter
Senators Joker Arroyo, Edgardo Angara and Mar Roxas said Wednesday that the government should stop selling its strategic assets to offset low tax collections and to meet the targeted budget deficit.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/nov/15/yehey/metro/20071115met2.html

JPEPA ratification easier with supplemental accord
By Efren L. Danao, Senior Reporter
Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago said Wednesday that the Senate ratification of the Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (JPEPA) would no longer be difficult if it is accompanied by a supplemental agreement
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/nov/15/yehey/metro/20071115met6.html





Gloria’s distrust rating rises to 46%
11/15/2007
Filipinos distrust President Arroyo a lot more than they did three months ago, a Pulse Asia October survey showed, with nationwide distrust for her increasing to 46 percent, from 37 percent in July 2007.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071115hed2.html

GMA offers P5-M bounty for Tuesday bombers
11/15/2007

President Arroyo yester-day put up a P5-million reward fund for information that could lead to the arrest of the perpetrators of the bombing in the south lobby of the House of Repre-sentatives Tuesday night which led to the death of Basilan Rep. Wahab Akbar and three more.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071115hed4.html

House panel junks fresh impeach bid vs Arroyo
11/15/2007
The House committee on justice yesterday dismissed the latest attempt to impeach beleaguered President Arroyo, effectively ending any threat to unseat her for another year.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071115hed6.html

Senate open to amendments to HSA
11/15/2007
Senate Minority Leader Aquilino Pimentel Jr. yesterday said he has an open mind about a move by Malacañang to amend the Human Security Act (HSA) (Republic Act 9287) even if the law is only eight months old.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/nation/20071115nat3.html

To no one’s surprise,impeach rap junked
SO what else is new?
The House committee of justice, to no one’s surprise, yesterday junked the three-page impeachment complaint filed by lawyer Roel Pulido against President Arroyo for being insufficient in substance.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/nov15/news4.htm

Gloria ratings still searching for the bottom
BY REGINA BENGCO
AMID calls for her resignation due to the broadband controversy and the alleged bribery of congressmen and governors, President Arroyo’s already negative net approval and trust ratings have continued to drop, an October 20-31 Pulse Asia survey showed.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/nov15/news6.htm

SC orders MRT to pay contractor $2.8M bonus
THE Supreme Court has ordered the Metro Rail Transit Development Corp. (MRTDC) to pay an early completion bonus amounting to some $2.8 million to local contractor Filipinas Systems Inc. (Filsystems) for the construction of a podium structure which will serve as depot and maintenance area for its train coaches. At an exchange rate of $1:P43, the amount would total P120.4 million.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/nov15/metro2.htm

SC orders MRT to pay construction firm $2.8 million
11/15/2007
The Supreme Court (SC) has upheld an arbitration award of $2.82 million to a local construction firm tapped by the MRT Development Corp. (MRTDC) for its North Triangle project.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/metro/20071115met3.html

Senate leaders eyeing P122-B cuts in 2008 budget bill
By Butch Fernandez
Reporter
THE Senate is looking at sizeable cuts in the Palace-proposed P1.227-trillion budget bill for 2008 that the House passed on third reading early this week, Senate President Manuel Villar Jr. disclosed on Wednesday.
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/11152007/headlines05.html

Marumi rin pala

Amado Macasaet
Akalain mo ba naman na ganu’n nga pala talaga ang pulitika. Noong nakaraang buwan, nagpadala si Speaker Jose V. de Venecia ng 8 pahinang sulat kay Pangulong Gloria Arroyo.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/nov1507/main.htm

Impeachment pinatay sa gitna ng pagluluksa
(BTaguinod)
Kinastigo ng mga militanteng kongresista ang mga alipores ni Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo sa pagpatay sa impeachment case sa gitna ng pagdadalamhati ng Kongreso sa pagkamatay ng isang kasamahan dahil sa bombang pinasabog sa Batasan Complex kamakalawa ng gabi.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/nov1507/main.htm

Terrorists won’t intimidate Senate -- Villar
SENATE President Manny Villar yesterday expressed the assurance that the bombing at the House of Representatives will not prevent the Senate from doing its job and multitask on legislation and the conduct of investigations.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-11-15&sec=1&aid=38945



November 16, 2007 Mind Bullet Inc.
I.BANNER STORIES

1. Philippine Daily Inquirer
Government, MILF break stalemate on scope of Muslim homeland
Agence France-Presse
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia -- (UPDATE 2) The Philippine government reached an agreement Thursday with the country's main Islamic separatist group on carving out boundaries for a Muslim homeland in the conflict-ridden south, which they expect will lead to a peace accord in August.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=101118


2. The Philippine Star
3 Abu suspects killed in QC
By James Mananghaya and Cecille Suerte Felipe
Friday, November 16, 2007
Three suspected Abu Sayyaf bandits believed involved in the bombing at the House of Representatives last Tuesday night were killed yesterday during an alleged shootout with government troops in Quezon City.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071115138


3. Manila Times
‘Abu Sayyaf’ killed in Payatas
Police establishing link with Batasan bombing
Three suspects were killed and three more were arrested Thursday, as police raided an Islamic militant hideout near the House of Representatives, where a congressman was killed in a blast Tuesday, officials said.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/nov/16/yehey/top_stories/20071116top1.html


4. Malaya
3 Abus killed; Batasan
blast links eyed Raid on Quezon City house yields solon-issued ID, No. 8 car plate
BY RAYMOND AFRICA
THREE suspected members of the Abu Sayyaf Group were killed yesterday in a shootout with police and Army operatives who raided their lair in Payatas, Quezon City.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/nov16/news1.htm


5. Manila Bulletin
GMA appeals to media
‘Practice responsible reporting, avoid sensationalism’
GMA appeals to media at KBP meet
By GENALYN D. KABILING
President Arroyo has appealed to media companies to practice responsible and balanced reporting and stay away from news sensationalism, saying the truth is more important than ratings.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20071116108758.html


6. The Daily Tribune
Cops link ASG to bombing, kill 3 ‘Abus’
PNP pushes Akbar slay slant, junks terrorist angle
11/16/2007
President Arroyo and her Philippine National Police (PNP) are bent on passing off the Batasan bombing, which claimed the lives of Basilan Rep. Wahab Akbar and three others while injuring some 13 persons, as an assassination plot against the congressman, with the bomb blast not having anything to do with terrorism.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071116hed1.html







7. Abante
MALALIMANG KILL PLOT
(Boyet Jadulco/Nilo Marasigan/Eralyn Prado/Rose Miranda/Al Jacinto/Juliet De Loza)
NADALE NA NAMAN!
Itinuturing na malalimang pagpaplano ang ginawang pagpatay kay Basilan Rep. Wahab Akbar sa loob mismo ng compound ng Mababang Kapulungan, kung saan nananaig ang malawakang sabwatan.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/nov1607/main.htm


8. Abante-Tonite
EBIDENSYA SA BATASAN NAKUHA SA SAYYAF
Ni Bernard Taguinod
Igigisa sa gagawing imbestigasyon ng Mababang Kapulungan ng Kongreso ang House Sgt-at-Arms at ang Police Security and Protection Office (PSPO) ng Philippine National Police (PNP) sa naganap na pagsabog sa Batasan Pambansa na ikinamatay ng apat na katao kabilang na ang isang kongresista.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/nov1607/main.htm


9. Pilipino Star Ngayon
3 Sayyaf todas sa Payatas!
Ni Joy Cantos
Friday, November 16, 2007
Tatlong hinihinalang miyembro ng mga bandidong Abu Sayyaf na sangkot umano sa pambobomba sa Batasan Pambansa ang napatay sa isang raid ng pulisya sa safehouse ng grupo sa Payatas, Quezon City kahapon.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=20071115114







10. Journal
3 BLAST SUSPECTS NABBED 3 others killed in firefight near Batasan
By: Alfred P. Dalizon and Joel dela Torre
SECURITY forces late afternoon yesterday fought a gunbattle with suspected Abu Sayyaf members in Payatas, Quezon City and shot dead three suspects, one of them a woman.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-11-16&sec=1&aid=39098



11. Business World
Transport tax hike shelved
BIR says move to help cope with fuel costs; industry presses fare increase
THE GOVERNMENT HAS SHELVED A PLAN to implement controversial transport tax hike, citing the need to help jeepney, bus and taxi operators cope with ever-increasing fuel prices.
Nelson M. Aspe, deputy commissioner for operations of the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), said the plan was "on hold" until such time that the transport sector "recovers" from losses due to high pump prices.
http://bworld.com.ph/BW111607/content.php?id=001


12. Business Mirror
New rate cuts seen to boost growth
By Jun Vallecera
THE monetary authorities decided to cut policy rates by 25 basis points effective Friday, setting interest rates at a 15-year low and putting the entire economy on a potentially higher growth plane than originally forecast.
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/1116&172007/headlines01.html







II. POLITICAL

Senator seeks law to protect kids from online porn
By Dona Pazzibugan
Inquirer
Last updated 11:40pm (Mla time) 11/15/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- Describing the Internet as the new “nanny,” Senator Ramon Revilla Jr. said the Philippines badly needed a law against pornographic web sites since children left alone who surf the net usually had easy access to such sites.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/infotech/view_article.php?article_id=101185


Arroyo lauds Payatas raid
By Lira Dalangin-Fernandez
INQUIRER.net
MANILA, Philippines -- President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo commended the police and the military who raided Thursday a suspected Islamic extremist hideout near the Batasang Pambansa complex, where a lawmaker was killed in a blast, her spokesman said.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/metro/view_article.php?article_id=101180


Batasan blast did not affect tourism, says DOT exec
By Margaux Ortiz
MANILA, Philippines -- The blast at the Batasang Pambansa that killed Basilan Representative Wahab Akbar and three others has not affected the country's tourism industry -- so far.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=101161


Second impeach rap vs Arroyo returned to complainants
By Maila Ager
MANILA, Philippines – (UPDATE) Citing the one-year prohibition of impeachment, the House of Representatives has sent back the second impeachment case filed by leftist groups against President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, a House official told INQUIRER.net Thursday.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=101112


Arroyo hopes to name ex-SC justice as Comelec chief
By Lira Dalangin-Fernandez
MANILA, Philippines -- A day after Malacañang announced that it was opening to the public the application and nomination process for the chairmanship of the Commission on Election (Comelec), President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo said she had someone in mind for the post.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=101117


Solon becomes more ‘security conscious’ after blast
By Maila Ager
MANILA, Philippines -- Tuesday’s bombing at the House of Representatives has made one lawmaker more “security conscious” than he already was.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=101121


LP set to declare Roxas as 2010 presidential bet on Nov 26
By Joey A. Gabieta
TACLOBAN CITY, Philippines -- With less than three years away from the next presidential elections, the Liberal Party has identified their candidate for President -- Senator Mar Roxas.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view_article.php?article_id=101116



Aftershock
Inquirer
Last updated 11:44pm (Mla time)
The bombing of the Batasan, the building of the House of Representatives, last Tuesday was both brutal and unprecedented. Nails were used as shrapnel in the improvised explosive for the first attack on Congress, on record. And yet we can characterize much of the initial public reaction as indifferent at best, blasé at worst. Been there, suffered that.
http://opinion.inquirer.net/inquireropinion/editorial/view_article.php?article_id=101186





House conducts own blast probe
By Jess Diaz
Friday, November 16, 2007
Like the Ayalas who own the Glorietta mall in Makati, the House of Representatives is conducting a parallel inquiry into the powerful explosion that rocked its south wing entrance and killed Basilan Rep. Wahab Akbar and three others.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071115139


Marianeth was raped – NBI
By Edith Regalado
Friday, November 16, 2007
DAVAO CITY — Results of the autopsy conducted yesterday on the exhumed remains of 12-year-old Marianeth Amper, who was earlier reported to have committed suicide allegedly because of extreme poverty, showed she was raped.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071115142


GMA to push RP interests on environment in Asean summit
By Pia Lee-Brago
Friday, November 16, 2007
President Arroyo will put forward Philippine interests on various environmental issues, including the protection of coastal and marine ecosystems, when she attends the 13th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in Singapore next week.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071115153



Arroyo orders DBM to boost anti-terror funding
By Paolo Romero
Friday, November 16, 2007
President Arroyo has ordered the release of more funds for intelligence gathering and law enforcement in the wake of high-profile killings including Tuesday’s bomb blast at the Batasan that killed Basilan Rep. Wahab Akbar and three others as well as the gunslaying of elections legal officer Alioden Dalaig.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20071115146



EDITORIAL – Again, a campaign vs kotong
Friday, November 16, 2007
Back when he was the Philippine National Police chief, Panfilo Lacson had launched a high-profile campaign to stop cops from extorting from motorists. The campaign against so-called “kotong” cops was widely applauded by the public, but was interrupted by EDSA II and the ouster of Lacson from the PNP.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Opinion&p=49&type=2&sec=25


Return the P500,000 if it can’t be justified
GOTCHA By Jarius Bondoc
Friday, November 16, 2007
Pampanga Gov. Ed Panlilio has admitted under oath having received P500,000 cash from Malacañang. But he said it was not a bribe because there were no strings attached.
Panlilio, a Catholic priest, is so candid, which is why his parishioners love him. He is also so naive, which is why the provincial board led by the vice governor and most of the town mayors run circles around him.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Opinion&p=49&type=2&sec=25&aid=20071115160


Sham impeachment
A LAW EACH DAY (keeps trouble away) By Jose C. Sison
Friday, November 16, 2007
An overwhelming majority of Filipinos, rich or poor, are certainly fed up with the ongoing, seemingly endless “political noises” polluting the air and distracting them in their daily grind to eke out a living. To be sure they are fed up with the antics of our politicians who just created another noise and treated them to another display of partisan politics by the predictable and precipitate junking of the sham Pulido-San Luis Impeachment complaint as “scripted”. Between Pulido and San Luis, Pulido seems to be the better actor as he appeared to be really dejected and indignant when his complaint was thrown out while San Luis betrayed his true color and real purpose by his elation over the outcome despite voting against its junking.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Nation&p=49&type=2&sec=28



Ex-justices resign from bribe probe
By Jomar Canlas, Reporter
TWO of the three retired justices investigating an alleged bribery attempt on Supreme Court Justice Consuelo Ynares Santiago opted out of the probe, apparently for personal reasons.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/nov/16/yehey/top_stories/20071116top3.html


President increases intelligence fund Other lawmakers could be in the firing line of assassins.
By Angelo S. Samonte, Reporter
This was hinted on by President Gloria Arroyo on Thursday when she ordered the budget department to increase the intelligence fund of the military and the police. She said the additional money will help secure congressional buildings and lawmakers more.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/nov/16/yehey/top_stories/20071116top7.html


GMA appeals to media
‘Practice responsible reporting, avoid sensationalism’
GMA appeals to media at KBP meet
By GENALYN D. KABILING
President Arroyo has appealed to media companies to practice responsible and balanced reporting and stay away from news sensationalism, saying the truth is more important than ratings.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20071116108758.html


GMA graces tripartite peace forum in Cagayan de Oro
CAGAYAN de Oro City, Nov. 15 (PNA)—President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo graces today’s scheduled tripartite peace forum of the Bishops-Ulama Conference (BUC), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP)at a local hotel here.
Hosted by the AFP, this year’s theme is "Building Bridges of Peace with our Peace Officers."
http://www.mb.com.ph/PROV20071116108754.html

Gov’t must explain JPEPA — Loren
By DEXTER A. SEE
LA TRINIDAD, Benguet — The Senate will ratify the controversial Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (JPEPA) being pushed by Malacañang if executive officials will do their homework by establishing that the country would realistically benefit from the agreement in the future, Sen. Loren M. Legarda said here yesterday.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MTNN20071116108738.html





Senate: Speed up probe into bomb blast
By Angie M. Rosales
Senate leaders yesterday called on authorities to speed up the investigation into the Batasan bomb blast and bring this case to an end amid speculations that the blast is a prelude to a looming declaration of a state of emergency.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071116hed2.html


Palace says distrust rating won’t affect GMA
By Sherwin C. Olaes
11/16/2007
A Palace official yesterday said President Arroyo is not affected by the latest Pulse Asia survey which showed a rise in her distrust rating, claiming the Chief Executive’s ultimate concern is governance, not popularity.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071116hed3.html


Arroyo allies to opposition: Let GMA finish term
By Gerry Baldo
The reason the Palace allies in Congress continuously kill any and all impeachment complaints lodged against President Arroyo, even when the complaints are valid and substantial, has finally surfaced: they want her to finish her term and protect her from making herself accountable to the public.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071116hed5.html


Palace brushes off
drop in Gloria ratings
MALACAÑANG yesterday brushed aside the results of the latest Pulse Asia survey which showed President Arroyo’s ratings dropping further because of the broadband and bribery controversies.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/nov16/news8.htm


Patuloy sa pagbulusok ang popularidad
Panibagong kahihiyan na naman kay Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo ang huling labas na survey ng Pulse Asia.
Lumutang kasing tumaas sa 39 percent ang disapproval ng ating Presidente habang 46 percent naman ang distrust rating nito mula sa 37 porsyento nitong Hulyo.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/nov1607/main.htm

Di tinutulugan ang kaso
Tatlong hinihinalang galamay umano ng bandidong Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) na sinasabing may kaugnayan sa paghahasik ng lagim sa Batasan Complex na nagresulta ng kamatayan ng apat katao kabilang ang isang mambabatas ang napatay kahapon matapos manlaban nang salakayin sa kanilang kuta sa Quezon City.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/nov1607/main.htm


GMA hints Melo likely new Comelec chief
RETIRED Supreme Court Justice Jose Melo will likely be the new chairman of the Commission on Elections.
President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo hinted this in her speech read for her by Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza at the opening of the Bishops Ulama Conference of the Armed Forces of the Philippines-Philippine National Police forum for peace held at the Pryce Plaza Hotel in Cagayan de Oro City.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-11-16&sec=1&aid=39066



November 19, 2007 Mind Bullet Inc.
I.BANNER STORIES

1. Philippine Daily Inquirer
Palace official clears Akbar’s political foe
Cops to file murder raps vs 3 suspects
By Nikko Dizon, Jeannette Andrade, Christine Avendaño
Inquirer
Last updated 01:22am (Mla time) 11/19/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- Three alleged Abu Sayyaf members face murder charges Monday in connection with the bombing at the Batasang Pambansa complex that killed Basilan Rep. Wahab Akbar and three others, but a top Malacañang official all but cleared Akbar’s political rival, Gerry Salapuddin, in the attack.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=101730

2. The Philippine Star
Independent probe on blasts sought
By Perseus Echeminada
Monday, November 19, 2007
A former commissioner of the country’s human rights body called yesterday for an independent body to dig deeper into the explosions that rocked the House of Representatives and the Glorietta 2 shopping mall to erase any perception of a cover-up.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=2007111887

3. Manila Times
Battle looms over control of Justice
By Jomar Canlas, Reporter
His body may look frail, but his spirit is in a fighting mood to regain control of the Department of Justice.
A bristling Justice Secretary Raul M. Gonzalez, who had been away on medical leave for a kidney operation, may be headed for a confrontation with Solicitor General Agnes Devanadera, the acting secretary.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/nov/19/yehey/top_stories/20071119top1.html

4. Malaya
Opposition to boycott
vote on impeachment
‘We’ll not take part in a zarzuela’
BY WENDELL VIGILIA
THE House minority bloc will not participate in plenary debates on the dismissal of the impeachment complaint filed by lawyer Roel Pulido against President Arroyo.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/nov19/news1.htm

5. Manila Bulletin
GMA off to ASEAN Summit
Charter approval expected at Singapore meet; De Venecia leads officials seeing her off
By FIL C. SIONIL, RONNIEL C. DE GUZMAN, and GENALYN KABILING
President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo and a small party of government officials left at 3 p.m. yesterday for Singapore to attend the 13th Asian Nations
(ASEAN) Summit and Related Summits.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20071119109088.html

6. The Daily Tribune
Swift end to Batasan attack probe raises frame-up posit
11/18/2007
The unusually swift resolution of investigations into the bombing at the Batasan Complex, which was uncharacteristic of previous police investigations, had fed doubts that the capture of supposed Abu Sayyaf members was made up by the police to bolster the angle of a kill plot on Basilan Rep. Wahab Akbar.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071118hed1.html

7. Abante
NERI LAGOT NA!
Ni ERALYN PRADO
Mistulang nalagot na ang pisi ng pasensya ng Senado kay dating socio-economic planning secretary at ngayo’y acting Higher Education Commissioner Romulo Neri dahil sa patuloy nitong pang-iisnab sa imbitasyong dumalo sa pagpapatuloy ng pagdinig sa kontrobersyal na national broadband network (NBN) deal ng pamahalaan sa Chinese firm na ZTE Corp.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/nov1907/main.htm



8. Abante-Tonite
KONGRESO WALANG TIWALA SA PNP
Ni Bernard Taguinod
Nawala na nang tuluyan ang tiwala ng Mababang Kapulungan ng Kongreso sa Philippine National Police (PNP) kasunod ng malagim na pambobomba sa Batasan Pambansa noong Nobyembre 13 na ikinamatay ng apat na katao kabilang na si Basilan Rep. Wahab Akbar.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/nov1907/main.htm


9. Pilipino Star Ngayon
Kaso vs House bomber isasampa
Ni Danilo Garcia
Monday, November 19, 2007
Takdang kasuhan ngayong Lunes ng Philippine National Police ang tatlong suspek sa pambobomba sa Batasan Complex na ikinasawi ni Basilan Rep. Wahab Akbar at iba pa nitong Nobyembre 13.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2007111851


10. Journal
Solon's aide detonated bomb
By: Alfred P. Dalizon
INVESTIGATORS are looking into reports that an aide of a congressman detonated the bomb that ripped through the South Wing of the House of Representatives that killed Rep. Wahab Akbar and three others.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-11-19&sec=1&aid=39424


11. Business World
ASEAN goal questioned
Integration by 2015 not easy
SINGAPORE — A gathering of the region’s business leaders ended yesterday with some skepticism on whether the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) would be able to meet its goal of becoming an "economic community" by 2015.
They, however, remained convinced that a transformation into a single market was in the 10-member bloc’s best interests given the realities of globalization.
http://bworld.com.ph/BW111907/content.php?id=001



12. Business Mirror
Base pay drives war for workers
By Dennis D. Estopace
NUMBERS don’t lie. Despite Watson Wyatt executives’ assertions that base pay is no longer an absolute criterion, their own survey of 400 companies worldwide shows many employers can’t afford to keep talents and often just watch their best and brightest walk off to greener pastures.
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/11192007/headlines01.html


II. POLITICAL
Palace assures Moros on pacts
By Christine Avendaño
Last updated 05:52am (Mla time) 11/19/2007
MANILA, Philippines -- Malacañang on Sunday assured the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) that the government would not violate the peace pact it had signed with the group in its ongoing discussions with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) on a new Muslim homeland.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view_article.php?article_id=101749

EDITORIAL
Gaseous statements
Last updated 00:45am (Mla time) 11/19/2007
MANILA, Philippines - Surely the Arroyo administration can do better than this. Responding to the possibility of government subsidies for certain oil products, Secretary Cerge Remonde of the Presidential Management Staff opined, “I’m sure the government is open to all constructive proposals, to mitigate the effects of oil price hikes, especially to the poor, and we are ready to discuss this with the proponents.”
http://opinion.inquirer.net/inquireropinion/editorial/view_article.php?article_id=101719


Impeach voting to be boycotted
By Jess Diaz
Monday, November 19, 2007
Opposition congressmen will boycott this week’s House plenary vote on the three-page impeachment complaint lawyer Roel Pulido filed against President Arroyo.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=2007111889




Independent probe on blasts sought
By Perseus Echeminada
Monday, November 19, 2007
A former commissioner of the country’s human rights body called yesterday for an independent body to dig deeper into the explosions that rocked the House of Representatives and the Glorietta 2 shopping mall to erase any perception of a cover-up.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=2007111887


EDITORYAL – Karahasan sa courtroom ay nakapangangamba na
Monday, November 19, 2007
SAAN pa nga bang lugar ligtas ngayon? Mapalabas o mapaloob ng tahanan ay mayroong napapahamak. At kahit sa loob ng courtroom ay hindi na rin ligtas sapagkat ang dugo ay dumadanak.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Opinyon&p=50&type=2&sec=56


Kaso vs House bomber isasampa
Ni Danilo Garcia
Monday, November 19, 2007
Takdang kasuhan ngayong Lunes ng Philippine National Police ang tatlong suspek sa pambobomba sa Batasan Complex na ikinasawi ni Basilan Rep. Wahab Akbar at iba pa nitong Nobyembre 13.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54

Enrile to bare more ‘ammo’ vs JDV
By: Paul M. Gutierrez
SENATOR Juan Ponce Enrile assailed House Speaker Jose de Venecia for insinuating he is “fronting” for Malacañang and warned he has more up his sleeve against the House Speaker over the controversial Northrail project.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-11-19&sec=4&aid=39394


Loren to conduct hearing on rising value of peso
By: Bernadette E. Tamayo
SENATOR Loren Legarda is set to conduct public hearings on the rising value of the peso and its impact on the life of the Filipino people and the national economy.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-11-19&sec=4&aid=39398


Pimentel: JDV should explain North Rail deal
HOUSE Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr. should cooperate with the Senate inquiry into the $603-million North Rail Project and to stop being evasive about the anomalies that attended the deal of which he was supposedly the “godfather” or principal broker.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2007-11-19&sec=4&aid=39446

JDV pinsasagot sa Northrail deal
(Bernard Taguinod)
Pagkatapos ng Batasan bombing, balik imbestigasyon ang Mataas na Kapulungan ng Kongreso sa mga anomalya kung saan pinasasagot ng mga senador ng "million dollar" question si House Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr., hinggil sa Northrail project.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/nov1907/main.htm

Miriam says quiet talks on to save JPEPA
SEN. Miriam Defensor-Santiago yesterday said Malacañang and Japan are quietly revisiting the negotiating table to save the Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (JPEPA) from being rejected by the Senate and spare the President from further embarrassment.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/nov19/news7.htm


Solon’s staffer triggered bomb?
BY RAYMOND AFRICA
A STAFF member of a party list congressman allegedly detonated the bomb planted on a motorcycle which exploded at the Batasan Pambansa complex in Quezon City Tuesday last week.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/nov19/news3.htm


Gloria off to Singapore
for 13th Asean summit
BY REGINA BENGCO
PRESIDENT Arroyo yesterday left for Singapore for the 13th summit of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, where she said she will advance the country’s interests on human rights, environmental protection and economic development.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/nov19/news5.htm

GMA aide says Palace won’t meddle in forfeiture feud
11/18/2007
Malacañang yesterday distanced itself on pardoned former President Joseph Estrada’s challenge to government to revoke the pardon and send him back to jail after the Sandiganbayan insisted on forfeiting his assets.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071118hed5.html

House set to kill impeachment rap today
By Maricel V. Cruz, Reporter
The majority bloc is poised to kill on the floor the “weak” impeachment complaint filed against President Gloria Arroyo by lawyer Roel Pulido in October.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/nov/19/yehey/metro/20071119met1.html


Swift end to Batasan attack probe raises frame-up posit
11/18/200
The unusually swift resolution of investigations into the bombing at the Batasan Complex, which was uncharacteristic of previous police investigations, had fed doubts that the capture of supposed Abu Sayyaf members was made up by the police to bolster the angle of a kill plot on Basilan Rep. Wahab Akbar.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20071118hed1.html
JPEPA implementation seen to benefit electronics sector
By Ma. Elisa P. Osorio
Monday, November 19, 2007
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) said the local electronics sector will greatly benefit if the bilateral agreement between the Philippines and Japan is implemented.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Business&p=49&type=2&sec=27&aid=2007111816