January 8-15, 2008

January 8, 2008 Mind Bullet Inc.
I.BANNER STORIES

1. Philippine Daily Inquirer

AFP suggests revival of national ID system

Plan needed to crush NPA by 2010

By Nikko Dizon, Christine Avendaño
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 01:06:00 01/08/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- The military Monday recommended the revival of the proposed national ID system to defeat the 38-year communist insurgency by 2010 even as it claimed that the strength of the New People’s Army (NPA) was at its lowest in 20 years.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20080108-110985/AFP_suggests_revival_of_national_ID_system


2. The Philippine Star

71% satisfied with Villar; Noli gets 64% poll rating

By Helen Flores
Tuesday, January 8, 2008

Satisfaction ratings for Vice President Noli de Castro and Senate President Manuel Villar Jr. have hit an all-time high, according to the latest survey by the Social Weather Stations (SWS).
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080107113


3. Manila Times

Govt revives national ID

For improving services, security vs. extremists

By Anthony Vargas and Angelo Samonte, Reporters

Amid criticisms, government security forces revive on Monday the shelved proposal for a national identification (ID) system in a bid to curb national security threats such as the communist insurgency and Islamic militancy.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2008/jan/08/yehey/top_stories/20080108top1.html


4. Malaya

National ID resurrected
AFP sees speed up of anti-reb drive

BY VICTOR REYES

THE Armed Forces yesterday batted for the national identification system which was shot down by the Supreme Court during the Ramos administration.

http://www.malaya.com.ph/jan08/news1.htm


5. Manila Bulletin




6. The Daily Tribune

GMA, AFP, PNP revive nat’l ID

01/08/2008

It was already a dead issue as public outcry against the proposal for a national identification system was loud, and as Congress failed to pass a bill for this Malacañang proposal. But the same proposal for a national ID system was revived yesterday during the command conference with President Arroyo meeting all the police and military chiefs in attendance.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20080108hed1.html


7. Abante

SUBUKAN N’YO KAMI!

Nina ERALYN PRADO, BOYET
JADULCO, JULIET DE LOZA, ROSE MIRANDA at NOEL ABUEL

Masusubukan ni Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo ang pasensya ng taumbayan oras na ipilit ng mga kaalyado nito ang pagsusulong ng Charter change (ChaCha) na mangangahulugan ng pananatili nila sa puwesto ‘beyond 2010’ sa pamamagitan ng paglusaw sa eleksyon.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/jan0808/default.htm


8. Abante-Tonite

ADMIN TUMITIBA SA OIL PRICE HIKES

ni: Ni Bernard Taguinod

Hindi lamang ang mga kumpanya ng langis ang kumikita ng limpak-limpak na salapi sa paglobo ng presyo ng krudo sa pandaigdigang pamilihan kundi maging ang admi­nistrasyong Arroyo.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/jan0808/Abante-ToniteHeadline1.htm


9. Pilipino Star Ngayon

National ID ipapatupad na!

Nina Rudy Andal at Joy Cantos
Tuesday, January 8, 2008

Positibo si Interior and Local Government Secretary Ronaldo Puno na maipapatupad ang National ID System sa taong ito.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2008010748


10. Journal

POLLS SURE

By: Tess Bedico

2010 elections will push through -- Palace

ELECTIONS will definitely push through as scheduled in 2010.

Malacañang gave this assurance amid concerns by the opposition that the administration would instead push for Charter change to perpetuate its stay in power for lack of a strong candidate for president.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-08&sec=1&aid=45054





11. Business World

Reserves hit record $33.7B
Bangko Sentral cites its aggressive dollar-buying, investments abroad

THE COUNTRY’S FOREIGN RESERVES hit a record $33.71 billion at the end of last year, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) yesterday said, largely due to aggressive dollar-buying operations, income from investments abroad, and a gold price rally.
http://bworldonline.com/BW010808/content.php?id=001


12. Business Mirror

Cabinet tackles oil schemes
ENERGY CHIEF SAYS ANY DECISION ON TARIFFS CAN BE ENFORCED IN 2 WEEKS

By Cai U. Ordinario
Reporter

THE National Economic and Development Authority (Neda) is poised to submit a draft of an executive order (EO) to be signed by the President to lower or completely abolish oil import taxes.
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/01082008/headlines01.html











II. POLITICAL

Esperon not playing coy on term extension

By Nikko Dizon

Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 02:36:00 01/08/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- The Armed Forces Chief of Staff, Gen. Hermogenes Esperon Jr., who is set to retire on Feb. 9, is open to have his term extended.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20080108-111009/Esperon_not_playing_coy_on_term_extension


National ID plan shot down by SC in ’98

Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 02:35:00 01/08/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- Pushed by then President Fidel Ramos as part of the government’s security and counterinsurgency measures, the proposal for a national ID system was shot down by the Supreme Court in 1998.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20080108-111008/National_ID_plan_shot_down_by_SC_in_98


Estrada: De Castro welcome to join opposition

But ‘no promises’ VP will be standard bearer

By Jocelyn Uy

Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 18:29:00 01/07/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- The Arroyo administration's best bet, Vice President Noli de Castro, is welcome to switch alliances and join the opposition but this does not guarantee him the prime slot in the 2010 presidential election, deposed president Joseph Estrada said.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20080107-110915/Estrada_De_Castro_welcome_to_join_opposition


Lacson seeks 50% pay hike for contractual workers

By Veronica Uy

INQUIRER.net
First Posted 14:23:00 01/07/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- To discourage employers from the “pernicious practice” of contracting workers only for five to six months at a time and then laying them off and replacing them with another batch of workers, Senator Panfilo Lacson has proposed to legislate a 50-percent higher compensation for contractual workers.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20080107-110835/Lacson_seeks_50_pay_hike_for_contractual_workers


Judge cancels Trillanes hearing

Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 00:03:00 01/08/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- Makati Judge Elmo Alameda on Monday canceled the scheduled arraignment of Senator Antonio Trillanes IV, Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim and 16 junior military officers pending the resolution of several motions questioning the nature of the charges and number of people that should be charged in connection with the Peninsula Manila hotel siege last year.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20080108-110962/Judge_cancels_Trillanes_hearing


Reyes vows ‘productive’ energy summit

By Christine Avendaño

Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 00:01:00 01/08/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- Energy Secretary Angelo Reyes vowed on Monday to make the proposed energy summit of Malacañang successful in producing practical initiatives to blunt the effects of the rising prices of imported crude and fuel products.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20080108-110961/Reyes_vows_productive_energy_summit


Arroyo allies reviving moves to amend Charter -- solon

By TJ Burgonio

Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 21:34:00 01/07/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- Some administration congressmen are behind fresh moves to amend the 1987 Constitution in the House of Representatives, an opposition lawmaker said.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20080107-110947/Arroyo_allies_reviving_moves_to_amend_Charter_--_solon


Jinggoy: Some senators need to forgo 2010 ambitions

By Aurea Calica

Tuesday, January 8, 2008

Some opposition senators may have to sacrifice their presidential ambitions for the sake of unity and victory against the administration in the 2010 elections, Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada said yesterday.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080107115


Bill seeks resignation of aspirants

Tuesday, January 8, 2008

Manila Rep. Amado Bagatsing has filed a bill that seeks to require senators running for the presidency or any other office to resign from the Senate.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080107116










GMA orders DND to review national ID system

By James Mananghaya

Tuesday, January 8, 2008

President Arroyo directed yesterday the Department of National Defense to study the possibility of implementing the proposed national identification (ID) card system, to ensure that the program will not violate any law, said Lt. Col. Bartolome Bacarro, Armed Forces of the Philippines public information office chief.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080107119


GMA to AFP, PNP: Sustain momentum vs security threats

By James Mananghaya

Tuesday, January 8, 2008

President Arroyo has ordered the military and police to step up their campaign against communist rebels, al-Qaeda-linked terrorists and other threats to national security, in a bid to meet her 2010 deadline.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080107121


Kampi to field own candidate for 2010 elections

By Paolo Romero
Tuesday, January 8, 2008

The Kabalikat ng Malayang Pilipino (Kampi) will field its own presidential candidate whom party officials said would win in the 2010 elections.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080107123



GMA, Cabinet to decide on proposed oil tariff cut today

By Marvin Sy

Tuesday, January 8, 2008

President Arroyo and the Cabinet are expected to come up with a decision today on the proposed reduction on the tariff on imported oil to minimize the impact to consumers of rising oil prices in the world market.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080107127


Palace says SMC has yet to appeal decision on Sumilao land

By Paolo Romero

Tuesday, January 8, 2008

San Miguel Foods Inc. (SMFI) has not yet appealed President Arroyo’s order last December placing the disputed 144-hectare land in Sumilao, Bukidnon under the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP), a Malacañang official said yesterday.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080107125


Arroyo orders study of LGUs’ request to increase IRA share

By Paolo Romero
Tuesday, January 8, 2008

President Arroyo ordered yesterday the creation of a committee to study the proposal of local officials to increase the local government units’ share of the Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA).
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080107128


Pelosi vows to work for passage of Pinoy veterans equity bill

By Jess Diaz
Tuesday, January 8, 2008

Speaker Nancy Pelosi of the United States House of Representatives has promised Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr. that she would work on the passage of the Filipino Veterans Equity Bill.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080107129

Noli thanks but turns down Estrada’s offer

That the race is on for the presidency in 2010 is indicated by discordant feelers from at least two candidates themselves.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2008/jan/08/yehey/top_stories/20080108top2.html


De Venecia denies hand in ‘Cha-cha’ at Lower House

House Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr. on Monday denied having a hand in reviving talks in the Lower House to amend the Constitution.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2008/jan/08/yehey/metro/20080108met4.html


Wooing for destab continues, Gloria told

THE Armed Forces yesterday told President Arroyo a group of civilians might be still enticing military men to destabilize her administration as the PNP said it is monitoring at least 10 of the 53 recently released Magdalo officers.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/jan08/news2.htm


Malakas na kandidato ng Kampi tiniyak

Tuesday, January 8, 2008

Siniguro kahapon ni Interior and Local Government Secretary Ronaldo Puno na ang magiging kandidato ng makaadministrasyong Kabalikat ng Malayang Pilipino sa 2010 presidential elections ay ang magiging pinakamalakas na kandidato.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2008010752



Decision on oil VAT freeze up today

BY REGINA BENGCO

THE Cabinet is expected today to announce a reduction in the tariff on oil imports as a way of mitigating the effects of rising world crude prices.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/jan08/news4.htm


Manny, Noli get record ratings

THE satisfaction ratings of 2010 presidential hopefuls Senate President Manuel Villar Jr. and Vice President Noli de Castro reached record-high levels in the Nov. 30-Dec. 3 survey of the Social Weather Stations (SWS).
http://www.malaya.com.ph/jan08/news5.htm


Palace to study increase in LGUs’ IRA share

PRESIDENT Arroyo ordered the creation of a committee composed of representatives of the Departments of Finance (DOF) and Interior and Local Government (DILG) and local government units (LGUs) that would study a proposed increase in the share of internal revenue allotment of local governments.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/jan08/metro1.htm


Coup plotters still active — Razon

01/08/2008

The police and military chiefs refuse to let the coup talks die.

Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Avelino Razon Jr. yesterday claimed that the police have recovered another set of documents allegedly belonging to the Magdalo rebel soldiers in an undisclosed place as they conducted manhunt operations against 10 other members implicated in the failed Manila Peninsula hotel standoff last Nov. 29.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20080108hed2.html


Cabinet revamp looms, three defeated Gloria Senate bets eyed in gov’t

01/08/2008

A looming Cabinet revamp is now reportedly being planned by President Arroyo to accommodate three adminis-tration candidates who lost in the Senate race last May 14.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20080108hed3.html



Drop 2010 bid, unite opposition, Jinggoy tells bets

By Michaela P. del Callar

01/08/2008

Senate President Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada yesterday said opposition members eyeing the presidency would have to sacrifice their presidential ambitions to unite the opposition.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20080108hed4.html


JdV to take hands off on Cha-cha

01/08/2008

Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr. yesterday said he is not going to meddle in current moves to amend the Constitution and would leave the matter to other proponents and to the House committee on consti-tutional amendments.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20080108hed6.html


Villar, Senado ‘most trusted’ -- survey

(Boyet Jadulco/JB Salarzon)

Ang Senado at ang pinuno nitong si Senate President Manny Villar ang pinaka-pinagkakatiwalaang institusyon at opisyal ng gobyerno, ayon sa survey ng Social Weather Station (SWS).
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/jan0808/news04.htm


Mike, Tessie, Tito ipupuwesto

(Rose Miranda)

Nakaumang na umano ang isang malawakang cabinet revamp ngayong taon upang bigyan ng espasyo ang tatlong talunang senatorial bets ng administrasyon noong 2007 elections.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/jan0808/news05.htm


ChaCha mabibigo sa presidentiables

ni: (Bernard Taguinod)

Ang maagang pag-iingay sa 2010 presidential election dahil ito ang bibigo sa anumang pagkilos ng mga alipores ni Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo na amyendahan ang Saligang Batas at palitan ang sistema ng gobyerno.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/jan0808/Abante-ToniteHeadline3.htm


Bangayan sa LP ibinisto

ni: (Rey Marfil)

Sa harap ng maagang deklarasyon ng Liberal Party (LP) sa presidential race, mismong kasamahan sa partido ang nagbisto sa bangayan nina Sens. Mar Roxas at Senate majority floor leader Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/jan0808/Abante-ToniteHeadline4.htm


Villar nakaungos sa SWS survey

ni: (Rey Marfil)

Nakakuha ng pinakamataas na satisfaction rating si Senate President at Nacionalista Party (NP) President Manny Villar sa pinakabagong survey ng Social Weather Stations (SWS) sa mga pinakamataas na pinuno ng bansa.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/jan0808/Abanet-ToniteHeadline5.htm


Maiinit ang mga dugo!
Spy On The Job ni: Rey Marfil

Sa hangaring mabigyang-katwiran ang press release bilang ‘top contender’ at mangibabaw ang pangalan sa nagsusulputang presidential aspirant sa 2010 election, kinasangkapan ng ‘kaibigang matalik’ ni Edong Angara ang pagiging No. 1 sa dalawang (2) senatorial race at inihalintulad ang sarili kay dating Senate President Jovito Salonga. Ang deklarasyon ni Loren Legarda: siya lang ang namumukod tanging senador, maliban kay Salonga, ang dalawang (2) beses naging topnotcher. Teka lang, hindi naman natalong Vice President si Salonga at “Luntiang Pilipinas” ang projection ni Loren Sinta, hindi “The Nation’s Fiscalizer” katulad ni Lolo Jovy?
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/jan0808/Abante-ToniteOpinionSpyontheJob.htm

Roxas warns gov’t vs token measures

SENATOR Mar Roxas welcomed the administration’s plan to hold an oil summit in light of skyrocketing crude oil prices in the world market, but warned that it must not result only in token measures that have minimal impact.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-08&sec=4&aid=0


JdV suportado pa rin ang Cha-cha

KINUMPIRMA kahapon ni Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr., na suportado niya ang panibagong hakbang na isulong ang Charter change (Cha-cha) ngayong taon kasabay ng paglilinaw na ipauubaya niya sa ibang proponents ang panukala upang hindi matulad sa nakalipas na pagtatangka na pawang nabalaho.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-08&sec=4&aid=45071


Hearing ni Trillanes iniliban uli

KINANSELA kahapon ng Makati Regional Trial Court (RTC) ang nakatakdang pagbasa ng demandang rebelyon sa Enero 14 laban kina Senator Antonio Trillanes IV, Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim at sa 14 pang miyembro ng Magdalo bunga ng paghahain ng mosyon ng magkabilang panig.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-08&sec=4&aid=45073


National ID revived

By: Fernando M. Cariaso

THE proposal to implement a national ID system to combat threats to national security was resurrected yesterday, with both the Armed Forces and the Philippine National Police claiming President Macapagal-Arroyo was amenable to the idea.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-08&sec=4&aid=45076


Noli did well -Palace

By: Tess Bedico with Cristina Lee-Pisco

VICE President Noli de Castro is deserving of the high public satisfaction rating as shown in the latest Social Weather Stations survey as far as Malacañang is concerned.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-08&sec=4&aid=45077


January 8, 2008 Mind Bullet Inc.

‘Lakas likely target of poachers’--Cayetano

By Gil C. Cabacungan Jr., Jocelyn Uy
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 02:05:00 01/08/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- Without a strong standard-bearer to ensure its continued stay in power, members of the ruling Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats coalition are likely to be the target of poaching by other political parties with more viable presidential contenders for 2010, Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano said Monday.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20080108-111002/Lakas_likely_target_of_poachers--Cayetano


January 9 , 2008 Mind Bullet Inc.
I.BANNER STORIES

1. Philippine Daily Inquirer

Peso rises to 40.75/dollar

By Doris Dumlao
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 00:52:00 01/09/2008

MANILA, Philippines--Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), who receive their pay in currencies such as the US dollar that have significantly been weakening against the Philippine peso since last year, are seeing their earnings being further eroded at the start of 2008.
http://business.inquirer.net/money/topstories/view/20080109-111197/Peso-rises-to-4075dollar


2. The Philippine Star

Government cuts oil import tariff

By Marvin Sy and Iris Gonzales
Wednesday, January 9, 2008

President Arroyo ordered yesterday the reduction of the tariff on petroleum imports in an effort to ease the impact of record-high global crude prices on the local economy, particularly on poor Filipinos.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080108111


3. Manila Times

Diesel price to go down

President cuts oil tariff by 1% to ease burden on consumers

President Gloria Arroyo will issue an executive order today to announce a 1-percent cut in tariff rates for oil imports, intended to help ease the impact of record-high world crude prices on consumers.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2008/jan/09/yehey/top_stories/20080109top1.html


4. Malaya

AFP, PNP ‘defy’ SC ruling on ID
Say criminals, rebs,terrorists are targets

BY VICTOR REYES and RAYMOND AFRICA

THE Armed Forces and the PNP are pressing for a national ID system targeting "criminals, rebels and terrorists" despite the Supreme Court’s 1998 ruling that such a set-up is unconstitutional for invading the citizens’ privacy on the pretext of facilitating delivery of basic services.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/jan09/news1.htm







5. Manila Bulletin

Oil tariff ordered reduced

President bares move to stem rising fuel prices
Tariff on oil imports cut by one to two percent

By GENALYN D. KABILING and DAVID CAGAHASTIAN

President Arroyo yesterday approved an automatic tariff reduction mechanism on imported petroleum products to soften the impact of soaring world oil prices on the economy, saying the "revenue neutral" scheme is a better option than a suspension of sales tax on oil products.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20080109113841.html



6. The Daily Tribune

GMA panicked over Pen siege—diplomats

By Michaela P. del Callar

01/09/2008

President Arroyo was said to have been a bundle of nerves during the Makati courtroom walkout by detained Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV and the march with Army Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim to the Manila Peninsula hotel last Nov. 29,, having been caught completely unaware of the moves made by the Magadalo soldiers while fearing a massive uprising that would topple her and her government.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20080109hed1.html


7. Abante

NATIONAL ID ‘DI MASIKMURA!

Nina Boyet Jadulco,Irish Ann Cruz, Eralyn Prado, Rose Miranda at Noel Abuel

Deretsahang inihayag kahapon ng Simbahang Katoliko at ng mga oposisyon na hindi katanggap-tanggap ang pagpapatupad ng isang National ID system sa bansa dahil hindi umano maaring pagkatiwalaan ang kasalukuyang administrasyon ni Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/jan0908/default.htm


8. Abante-Tonite

BAWAS-TARIPA SA LANGIS, INSULTO!

ni: Ni Bernard Taguinod

Isang malaking insulto sa taumbayan ang desisyon ni Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo na bawasan ng isang porsyento ang sinisingil na taripa sa mga produktong petrolyo bilang tugon umano sa patuloy na paglobo ng presyo ng krudo sa world market.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/jan0908/Abante-ToniteHeadline1.htm


9. Pilipino Star Ngayon

Bawas-taripa inutos ni GMA

Ni Rudy Andal
Wednesday, January 9, 2008

Iniutos kahapon ni Pangulong Arroyo na ibaba ang taripa sa langis at mga produktong petrolyo bilang tugon ng pamahalaan sa patuloy na pagtaas ng presyo ng langis sa pandaigdigang pamilihan.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2008010843







10. Journal
OIL TARIFF CUT

By: Tess Bedico
1% reduction to ease impact of high petroleum prices

PRESIDENT Macapagal-Arroyo yesterday announced a one percent oil tariff cut to mitigate the impact of rising oil prices in the world market.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-09&sec=1&aid=45197


11. Business World

Oil tariff cuts OK’d by gov’t
Diesel users to benefit

MALACAÑANG YESTERDAY ANNOUNCED the reimposition of a scheme to lower tariffs on imported oil and petroleum products, seeking to contain the impact of skyrocketing world crude prices on Filipino consumers.
http://bworldonline.com/BW010908/content.php?id=001


12. Business Mirror

Oil tariff cut; E-VAT lifting nixed

By Mia M. Gonzalez and Butch Fernandez
Reporters

PRESIDENT Arroyo on Tuesday approved the reduction of oil tariffs, which may lower diesel prices by as much as P1 per liter, to temper the inflationary impact of high oil prices on consumers.
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/01092008/headlines01.html






II. POLITICAL

House, Senate move closer to cheap meds compromise

By Dona Pazzibugan
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 03:50:00 01/09/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- Ahead of a bicameral meeting to reconcile the Senate and House versions of the cheaper medicines law, the principal authors of the bills in the two chambers have agreed on a crucial provision for drug price regulation.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20080109-111222/House-Senate-move-closer-to-cheap-meds-compromise


Nat’l ID plan slammed, splits Senate

Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 01:40:00 01/09/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- Amid the expected protests from the militant sector, the opposition-dominated Senate appears to be divided over the revived proposal to implement a national identification system.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20080109-111199/Natl-ID-plan-slammed-splits-Senate


Arroyo orders one-percentage-point cut in oil import tariff

By Christine Avendaño, Michelle Remo
Philippine Daily Inquirer, INQUIRER.net
First Posted 01:15:00 01/09/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- To cushion the impact of soaring world oil prices on the Philippine economy, Malacañang Tuesday said it would cut the import tariff on crude oil and diesel at the end of the month.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20080109-111198/Arroyo-orders-one-percentage-point-cut-in-oil-import-tariff


Lakas talking to Legarda on 2010 presidential race

Party leaders confirm talks to lure her back

By Norman Bordadora
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 03:34:00 01/09/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- Lacking a viable presidential candidate at this time, the ruling Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats wants Sen. Loren Legarda to return to the party she belonged to when she topped the senatorial election of 1998, a party official said Tuesday.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20080109-111218/Lakas-talking-to-Legarda-on-2010-presidential-race


Nation divided on implementation of nat’l ID system

By Christina Mendez
Wednesday, January 9, 2008

The proposal to revive the national identification (ID) system drew mixed reactions yesterday, with some lawmakers in favor but other sectors expressing fears of another political crackdown.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080108118


Reduced oil importation hurting Customs collection – Morales

By Edu Punay
Wednesday, January 9, 2008

Aside from the strong peso, reduced importation of oil is also expected to hurt the Bureau of Customs’ collection effort this year, according to Commissioner Napoleon Morales.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080108122


House to tackle Cha-cha Jan. 29

By Jun Elias
Wednesday, January 9, 2008

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union – Proposals for Charter change (Cha-Cha) will be discussed on Jan. 29 by the House committee on constitutional amendments, according to La Union Rep. Victor Ortega.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080108123


House bill filed to develop renewable energy sources

Wednesday, January 9, 2008

Davao City Rep. Prospero Nograles has filed a bill seeking to develop renewable energy sources to avert an oil crisis in the country.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080108124


GMA issues directives to mitigate impact of rising oil prices

By Marvin Sy
Wednesday, January 9, 2008

President Arroyo has lined up a number of directives aimed at providing relief to the masses from the rising cost of oil in the world market.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080108126


Lacson says his plans for 2010 may still change

By Aurea Calica
Wednesday, January 9, 2008

Sen. Panfilo Lacson yesterday said he still might have a change of heart on his 2010 plans, although he hinted that he is the better option of the opposition for its standard-bearer come election time.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080108127


Lawmakers divided on national ID

Senators and congressmen differed on the proposed national identification system.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2008/jan/09/yehey/top_stories/20080109top2.html
Peso closes P40.75 to
US dollar in heavy trading

By Nora O. Gamolo, Senior Desk Editor

The peso continues to appreciate against the greenback after it closed at P40.75 Tuesday.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2008/jan/09/yehey/top_stories/20080109top3.html


Senators say GMA can’t be trusted on ID revival

BY JP LOPEZ

SENATORS yesterday slammed the military’s revival of proposals for national identification system as part of efforts to eradicate insurgency.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/jan09/news2.htm


Gloria reduces tariff on crude oil from 3% to 2%
Teves says cut will offset planned increase in diesel prices

BY REGINA BENGCO

PRESIDENT Arroyo yesterday ordered a 1 percentage point reduction in the tariff on oil imports as part of mitigating measures on the rising world oil prices.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/jan09/news5.htm


Arroyo urged to heed civil society inputs in choice of Comelec officials

HEALTH undersecretary Alexan-der Padilla, who has been nominated by a member of the search committee drawing up a list of possible appointees to the Commission on Elections, on Tuesday said President Arroyo should pay more attention to what civil society groups say than those in government.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/jan09/metro1.htm


AFP, PNP ‘defy’ SC ruling on ID
Say criminals, rebs,terrorists are targets

BY VICTOR REYES and RAYMOND AFRICA

THE Armed Forces and the PNP are pressing for a national ID system targeting "criminals, rebels and terrorists" despite the Supreme Court’s 1998 ruling that such a set-up is unconstitutional for invading the citizens’ privacy on the pretext of facilitating delivery of basic services.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/jan09/news1.htm


National ID system ‘wag katakutan - AFP

Wednesday, January 9, 2008

Huwag matakot!

Ito ang mariing apela kahapon ni Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Hermogenes Esperon Jr., sa publiko sa gitna na rin ng kaliwa’t kanang kritisismo sa muling pagbuhay ng national ID system sa bansa.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2008010846


Senators reject proposal for nat’l ID system

By HANNAH L. TORREGOZA

At least four senators rejected yesterday the government’s plan to revive and implement the national ID system, saying the proposal will have a rough sailing in Congress amid concerns over possible human rights violations.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20080109113842.html


President appoints Dr. Macapado A. Muslim president of MSU System

By EDD K. USMAN and ALI G. MACABALANG

President Arroyo has appointed a prominent Moro educator, Dr. Macapado Abaton Muslim, as the new president of the Mindanao State University (MSU) System, replacing Dr. Ricardo de Leon.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20080109113847.html


Senators slam ID proposal

01/09/2008

Senators yesterday slammed the planned revival of a national identification card (ID) system, saying the idea broached by the Executive to curb threats to national security is unconstitutional.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20080109hed2.html


1% taripa sa langis tinapyas

Nina Rose Miranda, Noel Abuel at Boyet Jadulco

Ibinaba kahapon ni Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo nang hanggang 2% mula sa dating 3% ang import tariff cut sa mga petroleum products o 1% tapyas sa taripa bilang solusyon sa record-high na oil price hike sa pandaigdigang pamilihan.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/jan0908/news02.htm


Senado salpukan sa Nat’l ID

Nina: (Rey Marfil/Bernard Taguinod)


Agad nag-init ang panukalang National ID system matapos magsalpukan ang opinyon ng mga miyembro ng Mataas na Kapulungan ng Kongreso, sa pangunguna ng ilang presidentiables.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/jan0908/Abante-ToniteHeadline2.htm


Ping diskumpiyado sa convention ni Erap

ni: (Rey Marfil)

Sa harap ng political convention na isinusulong ni dating Pangulong Joseph ‘Erap’ Estrada upang pag-isahin ang oposisyon sa 2010 national election, kaagad pinalalatag ni Senador Panfilo “Ping” Lacson ang ‘rules of the game’, kalakip ang pangambang maisahan, katulad ang nangyari noong 2004 national election.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/jan0908/Abante-ToniteHeadline3.htm


Palasyo problemado sa ChaCha

(Rose Miranda)

Problemado na ang Malacañang kung paano papaniwalain ang publiko na hindi sila ang “utak” ng binubuhay na usapin hinggil sa Charter change (ChaCha).
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/jan0908/news04.htm


Midnight deal sa gabinete bantayan

ni: (Rey Marfil)

Sa natitirang mga taon ni Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo sa Palasyo ng Malacañang, nanawagan si Sen. Francis “Chiz” Escudero III sa publiko na bantayan ang midnight transaction ng mga maiiwang gabinete, partikular ang mga nakapuwesto sa money-making department.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/jan0908/Abante-ToniteHeadline4.htm


Roxas disagrees

By: Bernadette E. Tamayo

SEN. Mar Roxas is dismayed by Malacañang’s “outright rejection” of his proposal to suspend the 12 percent EVAT (expanded value added tax) on oil to help the people cope with rising oil prices.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-09&sec=1&aid=45207


Solons back, reject ID plan

AT least four senators opposed the proposal to adopt a national identification system but senators Rodolfo Biazon and Panfilo Lacson �" former Armed Forces chief of staff and National Police chief respectively �" backed the plan. Both have earlier filed separate bills implementing a national ID system.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-09&sec=1&aid=45213



RP may turn into a ‘garrison state,’ Loren warns

SENATOR Loren Legarda warned today that implementing a national identification system under the guise of combating terrorism may turn the Philippines into a repressive “garrison state” with no respect for human rights.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-09&sec=4&aid=0


National ID system tatapatan ng protesta

By: Arlene Rivera-Posadas at Ryan Ponce Pacpaco

UMALMA ang iba’t ibang militanteng grupo sa planong pagpapatupad ng national ID system sa bansa at nangakong tatapatan nila ng malawakang kilos-protesta sa lansangan maging sa korte kung ipipilit ito ng pamahalaan.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-09&sec=4&aid=45179


Hidwaang Kiko-Mar umiinit

By: Marlon Purificacion

HINDI malayong magkawatak-watak muli ang Liberal Party bunsod na rin ng ‘umiinit’ na hidwaan ng mga namumuno rito, partikular na sina Senate Majority Floor Leader Francis Pangilinan at Senador Mar Roxas.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-09&sec=4&aid=45180



Nothing wrong with national ID - Razon

By: Tess Bedico with Tess Bedico

PHILIPPINE National Police chief Director General Avelino I. Razon, Jr. yesterday maintained there is nothing wrong with a national ID system.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-09&sec=4&aid=45209


House divided, too

By: Jester P. Manalastas

THE revival of the proposal to have a national ID system got mixed reactions from the House of Representatives.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-09&sec=4&aid=45211


JdV not running for president

By: Jester P. Manalastas

SPEAKER Jose de Venecia yesterday said he is not running for president in 2010 as he urged presidential wannabes to set aside their ambition and
work to resolve pressing problems such as high oil prices.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-09&sec=4&aid=45218


January 10, 2008 Mind Bullet Inc.
I.BANNER STORIES

1. Philippine Daily Inquirer

Arroyo to ask Congress for changes in Charter

To solve Moro rebellion

Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 01:01:00 01/10/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo will ask Congress to amend the Constitution to allow the creation of a Muslim federal region in the south -- a key step aimed at breaking an impasse in talks with an Islamic rebel group, presidential adviser Jesus Dureza told the Foreign Correspondents Association of the Philippines.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20080110-111435/Arroyo-to-ask-Congress-for-changes-in-Charter


2. The Philippine Star




3. Manila Times

Senators slam oil tariff cut

‘Tokenism, drop in the bucket,’ lawmakers say

By Efren L. Danao Senior Reporter

A number of senators belittled the 1-percent cut in the tariff on oil ordered by President Gloria Arroyo, saying it would barely have an impact on consumers.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2008/jan/10/yehey/top_stories/20080110top1.html


4. Malaya


Palace: ID needs a law
Opposition: Scheme under way in barangays

BY JOCELYN MONTEMAYOR

EXECUTIVE Secretary Eduardo Ermita yesterday said the proposed national identification system cannot be implemented without an enabling law.

http://www.malaya.com.ph/jan10/news1.htm


5. Manila Bulletin

Alcohol, cigarette tax hikes planned

Taxes on vices supported by people – Favila
Gov’t studying taxes on alcohol, cigarettes, texting

By DAVID CAGAHASTIAN

Malacañang yesterday supported a proposal to increase taxes on alcohol, cigarettes, and short messaging system (SMS or texting) so the government can generate more revenues which may be used to cushion the public from the effects of higher oil prices.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20080110113956.html


6. The Daily Tribune

Gloria pushes Cha-cha anew

01/10/2008

It is still political longevity through Charter change for President Arroyo, but with a different beat: a change to usher in federalism to resolve the Muslim insurgency in the country.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20080110hed1.html


7. Abante

FERRARI NI WILLIE ‘HOT CAR’

Nina NILO MARASIGAN, IRISH ANN CRUZ, ROSE MIRANDA at NOEL ABUEL

Namimiligrong kumpiskahin ng pamahalaan ang kulay pulang Ferrari 2006 model ng komedyanteng TV host na si Willie Revillame, pati na ang isa pa nitong mamahaling sasakyan, sa suspetsang ‘hot car’ ang mga ito.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/jan1008/default.htm



8. Abante-Tonite

ALIS EVAT SA LANGIS LALABANAN NI GLORIA

Nina Tina Mendoza, Bernard Taguinod at Rey Marfil

Nanindigan kahapon si Finance Secretary Margarito Teves na haharangin ni Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo ang anumang tangka ng mga mambabatas na suspendihin o bawasan ang sinisingil na Expanded Value Added Tax (EVAT) sa mga produktong petrolyo.
Iginiit ni Teves na bagama’t malaki ang epekto ng mataas na presyo ng langis sa ekonomiya ng bansa ay hindi umano solusyon dito ang pagbasura sa EVAT.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/jan1008/AbanteToniteNews1.htm


9. Pilipino Star Ngayon



10. Journal

DEATH IN THE FIESTA

By: Hector Lawas

3 devotees collapse and die in the frenzy of paying homage to the Black Nazarene

TRAGEDY marred the celebration of the feast of the Black Nazarene after two devotees died while at least 44 others were injured as thousands of Catholic faithful joined the feast yesterday.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-10&sec=1&aid=45323


11. Business World

Palace’s oil moves questioned

PRICES OF GASOLINE AND OTHER PETROLEUM PRODUCTS will likely go up if savings from oil import tariff cuts are focused on diesel amid a consistent uptrend in world oil prices, industry officials yesterday warned.
http://bworldonline.com/BW011008/content.php?id=001


12. Business Mirror

Abuse of govt guarantees probed

By Jun Vallecera and Butch Fernandez
Reporters

THE government is dismayed by reports that certain government-owned or -controlled corporations (GOCCs) and even private-sector borrowers have obtained loans on the strength of its sovereign guarantee.
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/01102008/headlines01.html




II. POLITICAL

Antipoverty program launched

Cash for education and health is centerpiece

By Jocelyn Uy
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 02:44:00 01/10/2008

OZAMIZ CITY, Philippines -- Norma Cotto’s face lit up as soon as the big blinking machine in front of her coughed up her family’s allowance for the month.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20080110-111445/Antipoverty-program-launched


One-percentage-point cut in oil tariff not enough -- solons

By Norman Bordadora, Jerome Aning
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 05:09:00 01/10/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- The proposed one-percentage-point reduction in the tariff on oil imports will not address the need to protect consumers from the impact of the continued rise in the price of oil in the world market, according to militant legislators.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20080110-111451/One-percentage-point-cut-in-oil-tariff-not-enough----solons


Palace blinks, says national ID is Congress job

Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 02:42:00 01/10/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- Malacañang on Wednesday conceded that only Congress had the power to approve a national identification system.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20080110-111444/Palace-blinks-says-national-ID-is-Congress-job


Peso closes at new high, P40.56 to $1

By Maricel E. Burgonio Reporter

The peso closed to its new nearly eight-year high, mainly driven by weak US dollar and lack of no corporate demand, traders said.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2008/jan/10/yehey/top_stories/20080110top2.html


CHR commissioner backs NEDA nat’l ID
But law enforcers should not have ready access

By TJ Burgonio
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 18:22:00 01/09/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- A human rights official has found the identification system being developed by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) to be sound, but thinks its database should be off-limits to law enforcers.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20080109-111342/CHR-commissioner-backs-NEDA-natl-ID


Angara warns NFA heading for ‘fiasco’

By Efren L. Danao Senior Reporter

Sen. Edgardo Angara is concerned over the “extremely negative” financial position of the National Food Authority (NFA) and warned that it is “following the footsteps of the National Power Corp. as the next financial fiasco to hit the government.”
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2008/jan/10/yehey/top_stories/20080110top3.html


Zubiri backs Roxas on scrapping VAT on oil, power

By Veronica Uy
INQUIRER.net
First Posted 18:14:00 01/09/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- Going against the administration’s stand, Lakas Senator Miguel Zubiri on Wednesday backed Liberal Party Senator Manuel “Mar” Roxas II's proposal to scrap the value-added tax on petroleum products and electricity.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20080109-111339/Zubiri-backs-Roxas-on-scrapping-VAT-on-oil-power


Gov’t may already be silently implementing ID system--Binay

By DJ Yap
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 16:32:00 01/09/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- Makati Mayor Jejomar Binay on Wednesday warned government could already be laying the groundwork for a national ID system through the proposed "Registry of Barangay Inhabitants System."
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20080109-111322/Govt-may-already-be-silently-implementing-ID-system--Binay


National ID system ‘open to abuse,’ says Rep. Lagman

By Maricel V. Cruz Reporter

The chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations said on Wednesday that the proposed national ID system should be junked because it is open to abuse by security forces and consequently lead to human-rights abuses.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2008/jan/10/yehey/top_stories/20080110top4.html


Erap spokesman: Tandem with Noli ‘possible’

By Francis Earl A. Cueto Reporter

The camp of former President Joseph “Erap” Estrada on Wednesday floated the possibility of an Erap-Noli tandem, saying this team is unbeatable in the presidential elections in 2010.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2008/jan/10/yehey/top_stories/20080110top5.html


Malacañang sees P60B loss, rejects suspension of VAT on oil

BY REGINA BENGCO

MALACAÑANG yesterday rejected proposals to suspend the implementation of the 12 percent expanded value added tax on oil products, saying it would result in a P60 billion revenue loss and lower credit ratings.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/jan10/news2.htm


Proposed tax on text revived

TRADE Secretary Peter Favila yesterday said he is in favor of imposing a tax on text messages as an additional source of revenue in the light of proposals to scrap or suspend taxes on oil products.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/jan10/news4.htm


Nestlé interested in RP energy investment

By Angelo S. Samonte Reporter

The Nestlé Group, a Swiss-based food giant, has shown interest in investing in the country’s energy sector, Trade Secretary Peter Favila said on Wednesday.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2008/jan/10/yehey/metro/20080110met2.html


Golez bats for more bets, winnowing process for presidential aspirants

SPEAKER Jose de Venecia should take another shot at the Presidency in 2010 along with promising leaders of the House, the local government and other sectors of society, according to Rep. Roilo Golez (Ind., Parañaque).
http://www.malaya.com.ph/jan10/metro1.htm


Alcohol, cigarette tax hikes planned

Taxes on vices supported by people – Favila
Gov’t studying taxes on alcohol, cigarettes, texting

By DAVID CAGAHASTIAN

Malacañang yesterday supported a proposal to increase taxes on alcohol, cigarettes, and short messaging system (SMS or texting) so the government can generate more revenues which may be used to cushion the public from the effects of higher oil prices.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20080110113956.html


Oil companies to benefit in tariff cut – Nograles

By BEN R. ROSARIO

A senior administration congressman yesterday said the reduction of oil tariffs would not mean lower prices of oil products for consumers.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20080110113958.html


Lagman opposes proposed nat’l ID system

By EDMER F. PANESA

Even a staunch congressional ally of President Arroyo like Albay Rep. Edcel Lagman is opposed to the Malacañang-backed proposal to implement a national ID system.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20080110113959.html


Loren ahead in opposition selection – Erap

Former President Joseph Estrada said that Sen. Loren Legarda has the best chances of being fielded by the opposition in the May, 2010 presidential election.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20080110113960.html


Oil firm loses bid to collect P50 M

The Court of Appeals (CA) has denied the bid of Caltex Philippines Inc. to collect P50 million from Banco de Oro (BDO) for a standby letter of credit (SLC) which the bank issued in 2002 to a fuel product distributor who failed to comply with his obligation.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MTNN20080110113966.html


Zubiri urges opposition bets to join admin

01/10/2008

A staunch ally of President Arroyo in the Senate yesterday called on possible opposition standard-bearers in the 2010 elections to jump ship and start talking to administration coalition parties.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20080110hed2.html


Gloria working on ID system in barangays, Binay reveals

01/10/2008

Makati City Mayor and United Opposition (UNO) president Jejomar Binay yesterday said the Arroyo administration is already laying the groundwork for the “silent implementation” of the national ID system at the barangay level.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20080110hed5.html



Beef up tax collection, cushion impact of oil price hike -- solon

Sen. Mar Roxas yesterday said the Arroyo government must work harder in increasing tax collection efficiency before shunning his proposal to suspend the Value-added Tax (VAT) on oil products, on revenue concerns.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/nation/20080110nat1.html


DAGDAG P4 SA PETROLYO!

Nina Boyet Jadulco, Tina Mendoza, Noel Abuel, Eralyn Prado, Rose
Miranda at Al Jacinto

Halos kasabay ng babala kahapon ni Sen. Mar Roxas na maaaring madagdagan pa nang P3 hanggang P4 kada litro ang kasalukuyang presyo ng mga produktong petrolyo, inihayag ng mga maliliit na oil firms ang napipintong paggalaw ng halaga ng kanilang mga produkto sa Enero 15.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/jan1008/news02.htm


National ID makakarating sa SC

ni: (Bernard Taguinod)

Makakarating sa Korte Suprema ang isyu sa National ID System (NIS) na isinusulong ng Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) kapag hindi ito idinadaan sa Kongreso.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/jan1008/AbanteToniteNews2.htm


Atras sa nat’l ID

(Rose Miranda/Irish Ann Cruz)

Atras muna ang Malacañang sa pagsusulong ng national ID system (NIS) sa pribadong sektor sa kalagitnaan ng mga batikos dito.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/jan1008/news04.htm


Roxas at Gordon ‘di type ng Lakas

ni: (Rey Marfil)

Bagama’t wala pang final decision ang partidong Lakas-CMD, hindi umano kursunada ng nakarara-ming miyembro ng partido ang dalawang nagdeklarang presidentiables na sina Sens. Mar Roxas at Richard “Dick” Gordon.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/jan1008/AbanteToniteNews3.htm


Palace to block solons’ move to suspend E-VAT

By: Efren Montano

MALACANANG vowed yesterday to block efforts by solons to impose a moratorium on 12 percent sales tax, or expanded value added tax (E-VAT) on oil and petroleum products to help cushion the adverse impact of a record high oil prices in the world market.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-10&sec=1&aid=45331


63 priority infra projects behind sked

By: Jess V. Antiporda

SIXTY-THREE out of 153 priority infrastructure projects of the government in various parts of the country are suffering delays and three government agencies have some explaining to do.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-10&sec=1&aid=45339


Erap says Loren has best chances for 2010

FORMER president Joseph Estrada has declared that Senator Loren Legarda has the best chances of being fielded by the opposition in the 2010 presidential election.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-10&sec=4&aid=45273


PCSO clarifies bet price hike

THE Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) clarified issues on the bet price increase for the Super Lotto 6/49.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-10&sec=4&aid=45274


Lakas to screen all presidential aspirants

By: Raul S. Beltran

A STALWART of Lakas-CMD yesterday admitted that it is still in deep discussions on its plans for the 2010 elections, including choosing its would-be standard-bearer that could come from the names that are “floating right now.”
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-10&sec=4&aid=45277


Lipat-bakod itinanggi ni Loren

By: Marlon Purificacion

TAHASANG itinanggi kahapon ni Senador Loren Legarda na nakikipagnegosasyon na siya para sa paglipat sa Lakas-CMD upang maging standard bearer ng partido sa 2010 presidential elections.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-10&sec=4&aid=45303


1% bawas sa taripa ng langis di mararamdaman

IGINIIT kahapon ng mga senador na bale-wala ang ipinag-utos ni Pangulong Arroyo na isang porsyentong bawas sa taripa sa langis dahil sa hindi naman ito mararamdaman ng taong bayan.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-10&sec=4&aid=45305


Publiko pinaghahanda sa oil price hike

PINAGHAHANDA ng militanteng grupo ng Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (BAYAN) ang publiko sa inaasahang posibleng pagtaas na P50 sa presyo ng produktong petrolyo dahil umano sa pagmamatigas ng pamahalaan na bawiin ang Oil Deregulation Law at alisin ang 12 percent expanded value added tax (EVAT) para sa oil products.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-10&sec=4&aid=45308


Pimentel twits Customs chief

SENATE Minority Leader Aquilino “Nene” Q. Pimentel Jr. yesterday chided Bureau of Customs Commissioner Napoleon Morales’ request to lower the agency’s revenue targets in 2008.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-10&sec=4&aid=45319


National ID for schoolchildren? Why not?

By: Jeffrey C. Tiangco

EDUCATION Secretary Jesli Lapus yesterday said he sees nothing wrong with the inclusion of schoolchildren, even those in the kindergarten level, in the proposed national ID system.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-10&sec=4&aid=45326


ID ‘silent implementation’ hit

UNITED Opposition (UNO) president Makati Mayor Jejomar Binay accused Malacañang of “silent implementation” of the national identification system at the barangay level.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-10&sec=4&aid=45336


January 11, 2008 Mind Bullet Inc.
I.BANNER STORIES

1. Philippine Daily Inquirer

P1B in Jose Velarde account found intact

Estrada: Not single centavo belongs to me

By TJ Burgonio, Jocelyn Uy
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 00:42:00 01/11/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- Making headway in its nearly two-month-long search, the anti-graft court Sandiganbayan has found P1.1 billion worth of assets in the Jose Velarde bank account of deposed president Joseph Estrada.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20080111-111632/P1B-in-Jose-Velarde-account-found-intact


2. The Philippine Star

15 to be charged in Glorietta blast

By Cecille Suerte Felipe
Friday, January 11, 2008

Police will file criminal and administrative charges against 15 persons for negligence that led to the explosion at the Glorietta 2 shopping mall that killed 11 people and injured scores of shoppers in October last year.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080110140


3. Manila Times

‘Gas blew up Glorietta 2’

15 people face charges but mall owners spared

The national police on Thursday recommended the filing of criminal and administrative charges against 15 individuals in connection with an explosion last year at an upscale mall in Makati City.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2008/jan/11/yehey/top_stories/20080111top1.html


4. Malaya

P1B ‘Erap assets’ found
Estrada: ‘They can have it; the owner is Dichaves’

BY PETER TABINGO

MORE than P1 billion in assets suspected to belong to former President Joseph Estrada was found intact at Banco de Oro and is now being eyed for forfeiture.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/jan11/news1.htm




5. Manila Bulletin

Opposition rejects Charter change

All-out drive vs Constitutional revision readied
Federalism not answer to problems in South – Tamano

By BEN R. ROSARIO

The United Opposition (UNO) has declared an all- out war against any government attempt to revive moves to amend the Constitution even if it would help put an end to the secessionist conflict in Mindanao.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20080111114050.html


6. The Daily Tribune

PNP rules out bomb blast, spares Ayalas

01/11/2008

A deadly shopping mall blast that killed 11 persons and left 113 injured in Makati City was caused by a gas build-up, not a bomb, a police report released Thursday, said.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20080111hed1.html


7. Abante

CAR THEFT VS WILLIE

Nina ROSE MIRANDA at NONNIE FERRIOL

Nagbanta kahapon ang Presidential Anti-Smuggling Group (PASG) na posibleng kasuhan nila ng ‘car theft’ ang komedyanteng TV host na si Willie Revillame kung patuloy nitong ipipilit ang kanyang ‘palusot’ sa kaso ng kanyang Ferrari 2006 model.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/jan1108/default.htm


8. Abante-Tonite

TAUMBAYAN IBINABAON NI GLORIA SA BUWIS

Nina Bernard Taguinod, Rey Marfil at Rose Miranda

Sa halip na bawasan ang bigat na pinapasan ng taumbayan sa buwis partikular sa gitna ng patuloy na pagtaas ng presyo ng mga produktong petrolyo, mistulang lalo pang dinadagdagan ang pasanin ngayong pinag-iisipan na naman ng administrasyong Arroyo ang pagbubuwis sa text messaging.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/jan1108/ToniteNews1.htm


9. Pilipino Star Ngayon

15 kinasuhan sa G-2 blast, Ayala pumalag

Nina Joy Cantos At Rose Tamayo-Tesoro
Friday, January 11, 2008

“Magpaliwanag na lang kayo sa Korte at iharap ang inyong mga ebidensya.”
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2008011065


10. Journal

AYALAS ESCAPE RAPS

By: Alfred P. Dalizon

15 charged for Glorietta gas blast

THE final police verdict is out: the Glorietta 2 explosion was caused by methane gas. However, no member of the Ayala family, who owns and operates the Glorietta mall, was found liable for the blast that killed 11 people and injured over a hundred others.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-11&sec=1&aid=45451


11. Business World

Outlook bleak as exports slump
Fourth quarter dip adds to peso, US slowdown concerns

REDUCED DEMAND FOR KEY ELECTRONIC PRODUCTS pulled down exports in November, reinforcing an industry outlook of a gloomy 2008 amid a strengthening peso — which means reduced profits for exporters — and an economic slowdown in major trading partner the United States.
http://bworldonline.com/BW011108/content.php?id=001


12. Business Mirror

BIR wins Round 1 in tax-credit scam

By Lourdes M. Fernandez
Editor in Chief

COULD 2008 signal the start of a winning streak for the Bureau of Internal Revenue’s (BIR) legal team, making up through prosecution what a cash-strapped government struggles to fill with its regular collection efforts?
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/0111&122008/headlines01.html











II. POLITICAL

Senate to hold hearings on VAT on oil

Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 22:27:00 01/10/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- Despite Malacañang’s strong objections, the Senate will conduct public hearings on the proposal to suspend the 12-percent value added tax on oil products to ease the impact of skyrocketing oil prices.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20080110-111604/Senate-to-hold-hearings-on-VAT-on-oil


Gonzales for scrapping Comelec through Charter change

By Ephraim Aguilar
Southern Luzon Bureau
First Posted 19:21:00 01/10/2008

LEGAZPI CITY, Philippines -- Following President Macapagal-Arroyo's recent statement that Charter change would be the solution to solve the Moro rebellion in the south, National Security Adviser Norberto Gonzales is also pushing for constitutional amendment to overhaul the electoral system.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20080110-111576/Gonzales-for-scrapping-Comelec-through-Charter-change


Gov’t eyes higher ‘sin’ taxes

Finance dep’t says it’s not keen on text tax

By Michelle Remo
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 01:43:00 01/11/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- The finance department will support measures seeking to increase the taxes on alcohol and cigarettes, but is not keen on a proposal to tax text messaging, at least not this year.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20080111-111651/Govt-eyes-higher-sin-taxes


2 admin stalwarts back national ID system

By Cynthia Balana, Leila Salaverria
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 04:19:00 01/11/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- Two stalwarts of the administration on Thursday backed a unified national identification system subject to certain conditions.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20080111-111663/2-admin-stalwarts-back-national-ID-system


Bicol congressman denies owning Ferrari: How I wish

Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 04:48:00 01/11/2008

LEGAZPI CITY -- Albay Rep. Al Francis Bichara said he did not own a Ferrari.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20080111-111666/Bicol-congressman-denies-owning-Ferrari-How-I-wish


Car registration jumped from 2 in ’06 to 3,906 in ’07

By Jolene Bulambot
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 04:49:00 01/11/2008

CEBU CITY -- Blame it all on TV host Willie Revillame.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20080111-111667/Car-registration-jumped-from-2-in-06-to-3906-in-07


DND: Attack chopper deal could be scrapped if rigging proved

By Joel Guinto
INQUIRER.net
First Posted 17:19:00 01/10/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- The winning bid of an American firm to supply the military with six night-capable attack helicopters worth $29 million could be scrapped, if an investigation determines the bidding was rigged, a spokesman for Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. said.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20080110-111560/DND-Attack-chopper-deal-could-be-scrapped-if-rigging-proved


Senators oppose tax on text

By Veronica Uy
INQUIRER.net
First Posted 14:53:00 01/10/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- Senators on Thursday slammed the tax on cellular phone text messages proposed by Trade and Industry Secretary Peter Favila.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20080110-111540/Senators-oppose-tax-on-text


Lawmakers oppose proposed tax on text messaging

By Jess Diaz and Christina Mendez
Friday, January 11, 2008

Lawmakers opposed yesterday the proposal to impose a tax on text messaging.

“Text messaging is the cheapest, fastest and most convenient means of communication particularly for the masses, and taxing it would burden ordinary users,” Albay Rep. Edcel Lagman said.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080110141


Freedom for 13 ‘ill’ Ninoy killers?

By Reinir Padua
Friday, January 11, 2008

Thirteen of the 15 convicted killers of Sen. Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr. and his military-tagged assassin Rolando Galman who are still in prison could be freed by the end of the month because of their deteriorating health, the Public Attorney’s Office said yesterday.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080110142


GMA won’t stop hog farm construction

By Katherine Adraneda
Friday, January 11, 2008

Bishops who met with President Arroyo failed yesterday to secure from her a cease-and-desist order on behalf of the Sumilao farmers who are urging San Miguel Foods Inc. (SMFI) to stop the construction of a hog farm in the contested 144-hectare property in Bukidnon.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080110143


DOLE mulls fixed dollar rate for OFWs

By Mayen Jaymalin
Friday, January 11, 2008

Overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) may soon get a much-awaited reprieve from the weakening value of the US dollar.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080110144


Sandiganbayan finds P1-B Jose Velarde account

By Sandy Araneta and Jose Rodel Clapano
Friday, January 11, 2008

The Sandiganbayan sheriff has found more than P1.107 billion in cash and assets in another “Jose Velarde” account at Banco de Oro.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080110145


Pro-admin, opposition lawmakers say no to revival of Cha-cha

By Jess Diaz and Edith Regalado
Friday, January 11, 2008

Even for a prominent ally, there is no more excuse for President Arroyo to revive the move to amend the Constitution.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080110146


Customs expects to lose ‘billions’ in tax collections due to oil tariff cut

By Edu Punay
Friday, January 11, 2008

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) expects “billions” of pesos in collection shortfall to follow the slashing of the three percent tariff on oil importation by at least one percentage point.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080110148


Joker dares presidential aspirants to make stand on oil price issue

By Aurea Calica
Friday, January 11, 2008

Sen. Joker Arroyo challenged yesterday the aspirants in the 2010 presidential elections to make a stand now on current raging issues, particularly the oil price increase and its impact on the people.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080110151


DND chief forms committee to probe helicopter contract

Friday, January 11, 2008

The Philippines is investigating complaints by a Polish helicopter maker of irregularities in the bidding for six attack choppers, a spokesman said Thursday.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080110153


Lakas reviewing existing partnership with political parties

By Paolo Romero
Friday, January 11, 2008

The ruling Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats is reviewing its ties with other administration parties in connection with the 2010 elections after being sidelined and “used” in previous political exercises, administration sources said yesterday.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080110154

Gonzalez: Nat’l ID must be tested before dismissed

By Mike Frialde
Friday, January 11, 2008

Justice Secretary Raul Gonzalez yesterday said the proposal to revive the national identification system should first be tried before being dismissed outright for fear that it will violate human rights.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080110155


Joker: Palace deceiving people on charter change

BY DENNIS GADIL

ADMINISTRATION Sen. Joker Arroyo yesterday said Malacañang is deceiving the public when it proposed amending the Constitution to resolve the Muslim secessionist problem.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/jan11/news4.htm


Govt wants to tax text messaging

By Maricel V. Cruz and Chino S. Leyco, Reporters

Government wants to tax text messages—but not if Congress can help it.

The proposal is meant to offset the foregone revenues that will result from the tariff cut on oil products recently ordered by President Gloria Arroyo.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2008/jan/11/yehey/top_stories/20080111top4.html


Chiz ridicules claim of P52B oil tax ‘loss’

BY JP LOPEZ

SEN. Francis Es-cudero yesterday dismissed as nonsense the government claim that it would lose P52 billion if the 12 percent value added tax on oil is scrapped.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/jan11/news5.htm


‘Hate txt’ forces Favila to change phone number

IRMA ISIP

CONSUMER group TXTPower yesterday retaliated against moves to impose a tax on text messages, launching a "hate text" brigade against Trade Secretary Peter Favila.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/jan11/news6.htm



Erap disowns P1B found in bank account

By Francis Earl A. Cueto and Jomar Canlas, Reporters

Former President Joseph Estrada on Thursday denied having any link to the more than P1 billion recently discovered in Banco de Oro.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2008/jan/11/yehey/top_stories/20080111top5.html


Balanced budget in 2007?

BY REGINA BENGCO

PRESIDENT Arroyo yesterday said the government possibly was able to balance the budget last year, attributing this to the "fastest growth of the economy in more than a decade" and to the "raising of unprecedented amounts of revenues."
http://www.malaya.com.ph/jan11/news7.htm


Senate ignores DOF on VAT suspension

By Efren L. Danao, Senior Reporter

The Senate Committee on Ways and Means ignored objections of the Department of Finance and will go ahead with hearing a bill seeking suspension and eventual elimination of the 12-percent value-added tax (VAT) on petroleum products.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2008/jan/11/yehey/top_stories/20080111top6.html

DND may scrap chopper supply contract if...

THE Defense department may scrap the planned acquisition of $20 million worth of six night-capable attack helicopters for the Air Force depending on the results of the independent investigation on the bidding process which was described by a losing bidder as tainted with irregularities.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/jan11/metro1.htm


JPEPA ratification will set precedent for other FTAs: Favila

TRADE Secretary Peter Favila has said the Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (JPEPA) should be ratified because it will set the precedent for the negotiation of free trade agreements (FTAs) with other countries, such as the US.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/jan11/metro2.htm


BIR scores in tax-credit scam case

By Chino S. Leyco, Reporter

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) scored in the first criminal tax-evasion case against personalities involved in the tax-credit scam committed at the Department of Finance (DOF).
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2008/jan/11/yehey/top_stories/20080111top7.html


Ebidensiya sa Jose Velarde account, nakuha ng Sandiganbayan

Friday, January 11, 2008

Kinumpirma ng Sandiganbayan na mayroon na silang hawak na ebidensiya na nagpapatunay ng Jose Velarde Account.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2008011067


Presidentiables hinamon na manindigan sa taripa


Hinamon kahapon ni Sen. Joker Arroyo ang mga nais tumakbong pangulo sa 2010 na magpakita ng pani­nindigan kaugnay sa balak na pagtapyas ng taripa ng mga produktong petrolyo.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2008011068


Villar mananatiling pangulo ng Senado


Sa gitna nang nalalapit na pagbabalik sa sesyon ng Senado, sinigurado kahapon ng ilang senador na mananatili bilang Pangulo ng Senado si Sen. Manuel Villar Jr. at hindi rin uubra ang balak ng oposisyon na patalsikin ito.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2008011069


Opposition rejects Charter change

All-out drive vs Constitutional revision readied
Federalism not answer to problems in South – Tamano

By BEN R. ROSARIO

The United Opposition (UNO) has declared an all- out war against any government attempt to revive moves to amend the Constitution even if it would help put an end to the secessionist conflict in Mindanao.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20080111114050.html


Senado, House tutol sa tax sa text

Friday, January 11, 2008

Kinontra kahapon ni Senador Ramon “Bong” Revilla ang panukalang pagbuwis sa mga text messages bilang pambawi sa oil tax reduction, kasabay ng pagbabala sa gobyerno na ipagkakait nito sa publiko ang mas maayos at abot-kayang paraan ng komunikasyon.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2008011071


No new taxes on the people – House leaders

Leaders of the House administration and opposition blocs yesterday vowed to junk moves to impose new taxes on the people, particularly the proposal to tax texting or SMS (short messaging system).
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20080111114051.html

Tax on texting additional burden to poor – Villar

Senate President Manny Villar yesterday opposed the proposal to impose added taxes on short messaging system (SMS) for mobile phone subscribers, saying this will burden the poor.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20080111114054.html]


New tax plans floated as response to oil crisis

By Ayen Infante

01/11/2008

Instead of relief from skyrocketing oil prices, consumers will likely face the scourge of more taxes as the government, through Trade and Industry Secretary Peter Favila, sounded off the revival of a plan to impose a tax on text messages and a further increase in the so-called sin tax.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20080111hed3.html


Cha-cha bid seen as ploy to secure GMA in power

01/11/2008

The recent bid to resurrect Charter change (Cha-cha) as a solution to the age-old conflict in Mindanao is perceived by lawmakers as a ploy to perpetuate President Arroyo in Malacañang.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20080111hed4.html


ID system open to rights abuses, concedes DoJ chief

By Benjamin B. Pulta and Michaela P. del Callar

01/11/2008

Justice Secretary Raul Gonzalez yesterday admitted that the national identification system could be exposed to rights abuses but reiterated that its benefits for the populace far outweigh the consequences.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20080111hed5.html


Palace grooms JdV ally for Speakership

By Charlie V. Manalo

01/11/2008

The plotters in Malacañang and the House of Representatives are far from giving up on their moves to oust Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20080111hed6.html


Palace confident of Noli’s loyalty to Arroyo government

By GENALYN D. KABILING

Malacañang has expressed confidence that Vice President Noli de Castro would remain loyal to the Arroyo government until 2010, despite overtures from the opposition for him to jump ship.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20080111114055.html


Erap may run in 2010 if people call for it — JV

01/11/2008

San Juan City Mayor Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito yesterday said the doors are not completely closed on his father, deposed President Joseph Estrada, gunning for the presidency again in 2010, especially “if it is the will of the people.”
http://www.tribune.net.ph/nation/20080111nat1.html


P1B ni Erap kinalkal

Ni Nonnie Ferriol

Tinatayang mahigit sa P1 bilyong halaga ng salapi na umano ay pag-aari ni dating Pangulong Joseph Estrada ang natuklasang nakadeposito sa Banco De Oro ang ngayon ay posibleng bawiin ng Sandiganbayan.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/jan1108/news02.htm

Publiko pinag-iingat sa mga ‘balimbing’ sa EVAT

ni: Rey Marfil

Ito ang babala ni administration Senator Joker Arroyo sa sambayanang Pilipino kaugnay sa pagsangkalan ng ilang presidentiables sa suspensyon ng Expanded Value Added Tax (EVAT) upang magpabango ng pangalan lalo pa’t naghahanda sa 2010 national election ang mga ito.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/jan1108/ToniteNews2.htm


Gloria sinopla ng katropa sa ChaCha

ni: Rey Marfil

Mismong katropa at malayong kamag-anakan ni Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo sa Senado ang sumupalpal sa panibagong pagtutulak ng Malacañang sa Charter Change, kasabay ang alegasyong palusot lamang ang paggamit sa rebelyong nagaganap sa Mindanao.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/jan1108/ToniteNews3.htm


Milyong texters mag-aalsa

Nina Boyet Jadulco, Eralyn Prado at Rose Miranda

Mararamdaman ni Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo ang galit ng milyun-milyong texters sa bansa oras na isulong nito ang pagbubuwis sa text messaging system ng mga mobile phones.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/jan1108/news04.htm


Loren mabenta sa partido

ni: Bernard Taguinod/Rey Marfil

Mistulang hotcake na nagiging mabenta ngayon sa mga partido si Sen. Loren Legarda kung saan number one pick na ito ng Laban ng Demokratikong Pilipino (LDP) sa 2010 presidential election.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/jan1108/ToniteNews4.htm


Paghahabol ng PASG sa Ferrari ni Willie suportado sa Kamara

ni: Bernard Taguinod/Rose Miranda

Nakakuha ng suporta ang Presidential Anti-Smuggling Group (PASG) sa Mababang Kapulungan ng Kongreso sa paghahabol sa mga indibiduwal na may mga kuwestiyunableng mamahaling sasakyan tulad ni TV host Willie Revillame.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/jan1108/ToniteNews5.htm


Debate ng presidentiables wish ilagay sa YouTube
By: Ryan Ponce Pacpaco
NAIS ng isang lider ng oposisyon na ilagay sa YouTube ang debate ng presidentiables sa mga unibersidad para makita ng publiko ang kalidad ng mga ito sa halip na ilang maimpluwensi-yang pinuno lamang, katulad ni dating Pangulong Joseph Estrada, ang magdetermina sa dapat tumakbong mga kandidato sa 2010 presidential elections.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-11&sec=4&aid=0


Text tax ‘di na bubuhayin sa hukay

By: Ryan Ponce Pacpaco

TINIYAK kahapon ng House committee on Appropriations chair na patay na isyu sa kasalukuyang First Regular Session ng 14th Congress ang pagbuhay sa text tax bilang alternatibo sa pa-nukalang ibasura ang 12% expanded value-added-tax (EVAT) sa mga produktong petrolyo.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-11&sec=4&aid=45399


Villar mananatili sa posisyon -- Escudero

By: Marlon Purificacion

MANANATILI bilang pangulo ng Senado si Sen. Manuel Villar Jr. at hindi rin uubra ang balak ng oposisyon na patalsikin ito.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-11&sec=4&aid=45400







Golez: Widen choices for 2010 polls

By: Raul S. Beltran

THE 2010 presidential election is still more than two years away, leaving political parties to consider broadening their field from which they could choose their standard-bearers, instead of considering the present high-profile personalities who have already declared to seek the highest position in the land.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-11&sec=4&aid=45412


Hirit na fare hike iaatras kung…

IAATRAS ng transport groups ang kanilang nakahaing petition for fare increase sa tanggapan ng LTFRB na gawing P9 ang pasahe sa dyip at karagdagang P1.75 para sa mga susunod na kilometro kung sususpendihin ng gobyerno ang pagpapatupad ng 12% expanded Value Added Tax (eVAT) sa mga produktongpetrolyo.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-11&sec=4&aid=45419


Transport sector to use LPG, CNG

By: Jun Icban-Legaspi

DUE to the high prices of petroleum products, especially crude oil the transportation sector will come up with the use of alternative fuel such as Liquefied
petroleum gas and compressed natural gas.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-11&sec=4&aid=45442


Taxis, jeeps shifting to LPG, CNG

THE transportation sector is now using alternative fuel such as Liquefied Petroleum Gas and Compressed Natural Gas instead of gasoline and crude, according to Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board chairman Thompson Lantion.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-11&sec=4&aid=45446


Joker dares presidential wannabes

By: Bernadette E. Tamayo
TAKE a stand.

This was Sen. Joker Arroyo’s challenge to presidential aspirants in 2010. He said the public deserves to know their position on the oil price hike and other issues.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-11&sec=4&aid=45457


Cha-cha move a ‘palusot’

By: Bernadette E. Tamayo

CHARTER change proponents “should not capitalize” on the decades-old Muslim separatist problem to justify the need to amend the 1987 Constitution.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-11&sec=4&aid=45458


Tax-SMS plan anti-people — senators

By: Bernadette E. Tamayo

AT least two senators -- from opposite political fences -- slammed Malacañang’s reported plan to tax short message service or text messaging to make up for inadequate government revenue collections.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-11&sec=4&aid=45459


Call for suspension of 12% oil EVAT snowballs

TRANSPORT group leaders under the umbrella of the United Transport Koalisyon (1-UTAK) yesterday joined the call for the suspension of the 12 percent expanded value added tax (EVAT) on petroleum products.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-11&sec=4&aid=45470


Noli backs ID system

By: Cristina Lee-Pisco

VICE President Noli de Castro yesterday expressed support to the establishment of a unified Identification system.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-11&sec=4&aid=45478

Roxas welcomes hearing on oil vat suspension

SENATOR Mar Roxas welcomes the announcement of the Senate Ways and Means Committee Chairman, Senator Francis Escudero, that hearings on the proposal to suspend the 12% value-added tax on oil will be held before session resumes on January 28.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-11&sec=4&aid=45480


Erap remains opposition’s last option -- JV Ejercito

By: Jerico Javier

IF the opposition fails to come up with a single presidential bet in the 2010 national polls, convicted plunderer former Pres. Joseph Estrada will still be the “last option” as presidential candidate of the opposition.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-11&sec=4&aid=45481



January 12, 2008 Mind Bullet Inc.
I.BANNER STORIES

1. Philippine Daily Inquirer

EMBEDDED IN DPWH '08 BUDGET
House beefed up its pork by P13.5B--Drilon

Lagman denies accusation

By TJ Burgonio
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 00:42:00 01/12/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- The House of Representatives has "inserted" an extra P13.5 billion "pork barrel" in its version of the national budget for 2008, former Senate President Franklin Drilon claims.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20080112-111838/House-beefed-up-its-pork-by-P135B--Drilon


2. The Philippine Star

DOJ reviews Glorietta findings

By Mike Frialde and Aurea Calica
Saturday, January 12, 2008

The criminal and administrative charges that will be filed by the Multi-Agency Investigation Task Force (MAITF) against 15 persons for negligence in connection with the explosion at the Glorietta 2 shopping mall last year will have to pass the scrutiny of Justice Secretary Raul Gonzalez.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080111123


3. Manila Times

DOJ cracks down on media

Threat of charges extends to journalists, media execs

By Jomar Canlas, Reporter

JUSTICE Secretary Raul Gonzalez threatened media owners and press organizations with criminal charges if they allow their reporters, photographers and cameramen to obstruct “authorized police or military operations.”
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2008/jan/12/yehey/top_stories/20080112top1.html


4. Malaya










5. Manila Bulletin

LRT fare hike stopped

Increase non-rail revenues instead, GMA orders
Low rail fares to help daily wage earners

Marvyn N. Benaning

Commuters using the Light Rail Transit (LRT) system will not be bothered by any fare increase in the next few months and possibly even until 2010 as President Arroyo heeded the clamor of fixed wage earners for the maintenance of the current fare schedule.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20080112114116.html



6. The Daily Tribune

Zubiri poll anomalies found in SET

By Charlie V. Manalo

01/12/2008

It may be just a matter of time before Genuine Opposition senatorial candidate Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III unseats Sen. Juan Miguel Zubiri, who is likely to lose his place in the Senate, and perhaps even in shame, with the discovery of the electoral tribunal panel of too many cases of blatant election anomalies.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20080112hed1.html


7. Abante

DINAGA SA TEXT REVOLT!

Nina ROSE MIRANDA at ERALYN PRADO

Makaraang magbanta ang ilan sa mil-yong texters sa buong bansa na makakatikim ng kanilang galit si Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo oras na isulong nito ang pagbubuwis sa text messa-ging system ng mga mobile phones, tahasang sinabi kahapon ng Malacañang na hindi pinag-uusapan sa pagitan ng Pangulo at ng sinumang miyembro ng gabinete ang ideya.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/jan1208/default.htm


8. Abante-Tonite

ARTISTA MAGIC ‘DI UUBRA SA 2010

ni: Rey Marfil

Ito ang naging paglalarawan ni Sen. Panfilo “Ping” Lacson sa harap ng espekulasyong magiging malaking banta sa mga lehitimong political leaders ang mga artista bilang presidential candidate sa 2010 election.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/jan1208/News1.htm


9. Pilipino Star Ngayon

Erap bayad na!

Nina Butch Quejada At Angie Dela Cruz
Saturday, January 12, 2008

Tapos na ang sakit ng ulo ni dating pangulong Joseph Estrada, ito’y matapos sabihin ni Special Prosecutor Dennis Villa-Ignacio na ang P1 bilyong laman ng Jose Velarde account ay maaaring sapat nang pambayad sa forfeiture order ng Sandiganbayan laban sa assets ni Estrada.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2008011147




10. Journal

TAX MORATORIUM
House vows to block moves imposing new taxes

NO new taxes will be imposed this year.

The House of Representatives made this vow yesterday amid the furor raised by the proposal to tax text messages.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-12&sec=1&aid=45581


11. Business World

Gov’t borrowing plan approved in principle

The policymaking Monetary Board has approved "in principle" the government’s plan to issue $500 million worth of bonds this year, central bank sources said.
http://bworldonline.com/BW011208/content.php?id=001


12. Business Mirror



II. POLITICAL

Lacson to show biz folk eyeing politics: Don't!

By Gil C. Cabacungan Jr., Ephraim Aguilar
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 00:56:00 01/12/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- Here's a tip for show biz celebrities planning to enter politics: Don't.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20080112-111844/Lacson-to-show-biz-folk-eyeing-politics-Dont


Constituent assembly pushed

By Perseus Echeminada
Saturday, January 12, 2008

The Charter change initiative is getting a new lease on life – this time courtesy of one of the Arroyo administration’s staunchest critics.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080111125


ERC allows Napocor rate cut; Meralco seeks increase

By Donnabelle Gatdula
Saturday, January 12, 2008

Battered by soaring prices of fuel and basic commodities, Filipinos may find some relief from a likely drop in electricity rates.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080111128


Arroyo names two new usecs to DPWH

By Michael Lim Ubac

Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 00:19:00 01/12/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has appointed two new undersecretaries and three assistant secretaries as part of the continuing revamp of the bureaucracy.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20080112-111828/Arroyo-names-two-new-usecs-to-DPWH

‘No tax on text’

By Marvin Sy

Saturday, January 12, 2008

After receiving widespread criticism over a proposal to impose a tax on text messages, Malacañang clarified yesterday that the government has no plans to implement such measure.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080111130


Senators vow to fight text tax

By Gil C. Cabacungan Jr.

Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 23:52:00 01/11/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- Senators on Friday vowed to block any move by Malacañang to impose new taxes, particularly a suggestion to impose a tax on text messaging, to make up for the P50 billion shortfall in revenue collections.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20080111-111823/Senators-vow-to-fight-text-tax


‘JPEPA to open doors for RP nurses, caregivers’

By Manny Galvez
Saturday, January 12, 2008

BALER, Aurora – The Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (JPEPA) will open job opportunities to an initial 1,000 Filipino nurses and caregivers once the treaty is ratified by the Philippine Senate, Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Makoto Katsura said here yesterday.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080111137


Palace dares Roxas to ask House for suspension of oil VAT

Saturday, January 12, 2008

President Arroyo’s chief lawyer dared Sen. Manuel Roxas II yesterday to move for the suspension of the value added tax on oil by filing an appropriate bill instead of criticizing Malacañang for the country’s problem with rising fuel prices.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080111140


BOC seizes P16 M-worth of luxury cars in Cebu

By Edu Punay
Saturday, January 12, 2008

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) recently seized some P16 million worth of smuggled luxury vehicles from four separate shipments at the Port of Cebu (POC).
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080111142


Malacañang Backs Off From
Tax On Text Messaging

By Angelo S. Samonte, Reporter

There is no concrete proposal from the Cabinet to impose an additional tax on text messaging and the issue has not even been discussed in Malacañang, Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye said.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2008/jan/12/yehey/top_stories/20080112top2.html


‘Star magic’ won’t work in Noli-Vilma 2010 tandem — Ping

01/12/2008

An opposition senator has belittled reports that a Noli-Vilma tandem is being eyed by the administration for the 2010 presidential polls, saying the so-called “star magic” no longer proved to be an effective formula during the last round of national elections.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20080112hed6.html




Noli-Vi sa 2010 ‘di papatok -- Ping

(Boyet Jadulco)

Nagpahayag ng paniniwala kahapon ni Sen. Panfilo Lacson na tapos na ang panahon ng pamamayagpag ng artista sa larangan ng pulitika kung kaya’t hindi na uubra ang lumulutang na tambalan nina Vice President Noli de Castro at Vilma Santos, diumano’y magiging manok ng Lakas-CMD sa 2010 presidential elections.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/jan1208/news04.htm


Gloria natakot sa text tax

nina: Bernard Taguinod/Rose Miranda

Kinantiyawan ng oposisyon si Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo dahil mistulang natakot ito sa kapangyarihan ng text kaya iniatras ang planong pagbubuwis sa text messaging.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/jan1208/News2.htm


PNP insists nat’l ID should be implemented this year

01/12/2008

Despite it being met with a wave of opposition, including from Congress, on concerns that it could allow government authorities to commit human rights abuses, Malacañang is hell bent on implementing the national identification system this year, the Philippine National Police (PNP) yesterday bared.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/nation/20080112nat1.html


Kartel nalantad sa rollback

ni: (Bernard Taguinod)

Muling napatunayan na hindi kayang proteksyunan ng gobyerno ang mga consumers sa pagsasamantala ngmga malalaking kumpanya ng langis sa rollback na ipatutupad ng mga small players sa liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/jan1208/News3.htm


Palace pressing Cha-cha to buck opposition win in 2010 — solon

01/12/2008

Malacañang’s renewed push for Charter Change (Cha-cha) stems from the administration’s having seen that with its current possible presidential hopefuls in 2010 it is facing defeat from the opposition, which at the moment already has a roster of topnotch bets for the electoral race to choose from, a member of the minority bloc in the House of Representatives yesterday said.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/nation/20080112nat2.html


P210-M pork barrel hindi kukunin ni Trillanes

By: Marlon Purificacion

HINDI kukunin ni Senador Antonio Trillanes and P210 million na pork barrel into para sa taong 2008.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-12&sec=4&aid=0


P.50 rollback sa LPG ipinatupad

MULING nagtapyas ng P.50 sentimo kada kilo ng kanilang produkto ang Liquefied Petroleum Gas Marketers Association (LPGMA) bunga ng patuloy na pagbaba ng contract price sa pandaigdigang merkado at patuloy na paglakas ng piso kontra sa dolyar.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-12&sec=4&aid=45521


Kabayan-Ate Vi tandem laos — Ping

By: Marlon Purificacion

MINALIIT kahapon ni Senador Panfilo Lacson ang tambalang Noli at Vilma Santos sa darating na 2010 presidential elections dahil wala na umanong karisma ang mga artista ngayon.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-12&sec=4&aid=45538







Sin tax ‘di papansinin sa Kongreso

TABLADO rin sa Kamara de Representantes hindi lamang text tax kundi maging ang iba pang bagong panukala sa pagbubuwis katulad ng sin tax para sa mga sigarilyo at alak hanggang hindi natatapos ang Unang Regular na Sesyon ng 14th Congress sa Hunyo 2008.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-12&sec=4&aid=45540


Roxas chides administration for politicizing suspend-oil EVAT proposal

SENATOR Mar Roxas chided the administration for politicizing his proposal to suspend the 12% expanded value-added tax on oil and “apparently avoiding a transparent debate on the merits of the issue.”
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-12&sec=4&aid=45558


Villar warns Palace vs taxing text messaging

By: Bernadette E. Tamayo

SENATE President Manuel Villar Jr. has cautioned Malacañang against supporting the proposal to tax text messaging as this can be viewed as a design to stop the use of cellphone spreading text messages critical to the administration.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-12&sec=4&aid=45588


Noli-Vilma tandem minaliit

Saturday, January 12, 2008

Tahasang sinabi kahapon ni Sen. Panfilo “Ping” Lacson na hindi uubra sa 2010 presidential elections ang mga artista kahit magtambal sina Vice President Noli de Castro at Batangas Governor Vilma Santos.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2008011151


Ping atras na sa 2010

Saturday, January 12, 2008

Bagaman isa sa matunog na pangalan sa 2010 si Sen. Panfilo “Ping” Lacson, nilinaw nito kahapon na hindi na siya tatakbong presidente kung hindi siya makakasa sa top 5 ng mga survey kapag malapit na ang halalan.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2008011152



ONLINE NEWS MONITORING
January 13, 2008 Mind Bullet Inc.
I.BANNER STORIES
1. Philippine Daily Inquirer
Arroyo to veto RP budget if …
By Michael Lim Ubac, TJ Burgonio
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 00:06:00 01/13/2008
MANILA, Philippines -- President Macapagal-Arroyo could use her veto power if the House of Representatives fails to stick to the proposed 2008 national budget of P1.227 trillion that she submitted to Congress.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20080113-111987/Arroyo-to-veto-RP-budget-if-

2. The Philippine Star
Erap: I’ll choose myself
By Marichu Villanueva
Sunday, January 13, 2008
And why not me?
Former President Joseph Estrada said he’d rather pick himself to lead the country than entrust the task to any of today’s presidential aspirants.
http://philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080112139

3. Manila Times
Malacañang to stop Cha-cha plans

Malacañang is willing to abandon attempts to amend the 1987 Constitution, after getting much flak for suggesting it to resolve the decades-old Muslim secessionist movement in Mindanao, in a report posted on the website of GMA-7 television network.
http://manilatimes.net/national/2008/jan/13/yehey/metro/20080113met1.html

4. Malaya

5. Manila Bulletin


6. The Daily Tribune


7. Abante


8. Abante-Tonite

9. Pilipino Star Ngayon
Kudeta niluluto sa Enero 22
Ni Gemma Amargo-Garcia
Sunday, January 13, 2008
Bilang paghahanda lamang umano sa napi¬pintong destabilization plot sa Enero 22 ang ipinalabas na media warning ng Department of Justice (DOJ) laban sa mga media practitioner.
http://philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2008011283

10. Journal
IT'S YOUR FUNERAL
By: Efren Montano
Ignoring media advisory entails risks, says Gonzalez
GOVERNMENT is not curtailing press freedom, Justice Secretary Raul Gonzalez yesterday said as he parried criticism over his warning to journalists of the consequences of interfering in police operations.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-13&sec=1&aid=45674

11. Business World


12. Business Mirror

II. POLITICAL
Panel submits 5 Comelec nominees
By Sheila Crisostomo
Sunday, January 13, 2008
A short list was submitted last week by the search committee created by President Arroyo to screen nominees for the vacancies in the Commission on Elections (Comelec).
http://philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080112141

Pork barrel padded by P4 B, not P13.6 B, says Lagman
By Jess Diaz
Sunday, January 13, 2008
There’s padding in the congressional pork barrel but only by P4 billion and not P13.6 billion as claimed by former Senate president Franklin Drilon, Rep. Edcel Lagman, chairman of the House appropriations committee, said yesterday.
http://philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080112145

Palace appeals for public support for Cha-cha for sake of peace in south
By Marvin Sy
Sunday, January 13, 2008
Malacañang appealed for support for proposals to amend the Constitution in the bid to accommodate the creation of a federal state in Mindanao and bring about lasting peace in the region.
http://philstar..com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080112147

Koko-Migz poll feud ignites anew after empty ballot boxes uncovered
By Aurea Calica
Sunday, January 13, 2008
Defeated senatorial candidate Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III yesterday claimed initial victory after the Senate Electoral Tribunal (SET) uncovered empty ballot boxes from Sultan Kudarat in Shariff Kabunsuan where the Commission on Elections (Comelec) credited 35,000 votes to his rival Sen. Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri.
http://philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080112149

BOC to auction $10-M jewelry
Sunday, January 13, 2008
Bureau of Customs (BOC) Commissioner Napoleon Morales has ordered the creation of a committee to oversee the planned auction of $10-million worth of jewelry seized from a Greek national 21 years ago.
http://philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080112155

RP-US war games kasado na sa Pebrero
Sunday, January 13, 2008
Aarangkada na sa darating na Pebrero ang panibagong RP-US Balikatan joint military exercises bilang bahagi ng pinaigting na kampanya laban sa terorismo.
http://philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2008011285

Federal-presidential system isusulong
Sunday, January 13, 2008
Balak isulong ni Senate Minority Leader Aqui¬lino Pimentel Jr. ang pagpapalit ng por¬ma ng gobyerno upang maging federal-presidential system.
http://philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2008011289

Scrap pork, Drilon dares
By TJ Burgonio, Michael Lim Ubac
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 00:40:00 01/13/2008
MANILA, Philippines -- After accusing the House of Representatives of padding its pork barrel by P13.5 billion, former Senate President Franklin Drilon is now challenging Malacañang and Congress to waive their pork allocations in the 2008 national budget.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20080113-111990/Scrap-pork-Drilon-dares

Is it hello Pimentel, goodbye Zubiri? Not quite

By Norman Bordadora, Dona Pazzibugan
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 00:45:00 01/13/2008
MANILA, Philippines -- So is it hello, Koko, and goodbye Migz? Not quite.
Lawyer Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III said Saturday the recount of votes at the Senate Electoral Tribunal in connection with his election protest now has him leading by 12,000 votes over Sen. Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20080113-111992/Is-it-hello-Pimentel-goodbye-Zubiri-Not-quite

Local execs blame solons for falling share of taxes
By Michael Lim Ubac
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 00:52:00 01/13/2008
MANILA, Philippines -- While congressmen and senators quarrel over their “pork barrel” allocations, local government chief executives are up in arms over the slash in their Internal Revenue Allotment (IRAs) this year..
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20080113-111996/Local-execs-blame-solons-for-falling-share-of-taxes
Kids learn about biofuels from senator-proponent

INQUIRER.net
First Posted 00:59:00 01/13/2008
MANILA, Philippines -- Around 80 children were introduced Saturday to Kokoy Coconut, Dondon Sugarcane and Atoy Jathropa—characters in a new story titled “Fuels for Life” which was read for the first time during the 21st Inquirer Read-Along session.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20080113-112001/Kids-learn-about-biofuels-from-senator-proponent

Scramble for pork barrel funds spreads to local execs

By Michael Lim Ubac
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 19:46:00 01/12/2008
MANILA, Philippines --- The quarrel over “pork barrel” allocations between members of Congress has spilled over to local government units after the budget department slashed their Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) for this year.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20080112-111974/Scramble-for-pork-barrel-funds-spreads-to-local-execs

CHR wants to help police,
military on national ID

The Commission On Human Rights (CHR) is reportedly eyeing close cooperation with the human rights offices of the Philippine National Police (PNP) and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in mapping out their action plan on a national ID system.
http://manilatimes.net/national/2008/jan/13/yehey/metro/20080113met4.html

3,261 retake engineering exam
By: Lee Ann P. Ducusin
THE Professional Regulation Commission yesterday successfully conducted the Civil Engineering Retake Examination for two subjects after the Court of Appeals denied a petition to stop it.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-13&sec=1&aid=45671

Opposition firm against national ID
By: Jeffrey C. Tiangco
UNITED of Opposition spokesman Adel Tamano yesterday said UNO is firm in its belief that this is not the time to push for the implementation of a national ID system.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-13&sec=1&aid=45676

Balikatan exercise umpisa uli sa Peb.
IKAKASA na sa Pebrero 18, taong kasalukuyan ang panibagong RP-US balikatan exercises.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-13&sec=4&aid=0

Solon wants sustained campaign vs alcohol
BECAUSE of the danger it poses to one’s health, a stronger and more effective advertisement on the harmful and destructive effects of drinking alcohol should be released.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-13&sec=4&aid=45644

House to rush bill on compressed natural gas
By: Jester P. Manalastas
SPEAKER Jose de Venecia has ordered the members of the House committee on energy to rush the filing of a legislative measure seeking the use of compressed natural gas (CNG) by trucks and buses in the country.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-13&sec=4&aid=45649

Lagman: Junk AFP’s ID proposal!
ALBAY Rep. Edcel Lagman, House Committee on Appropriations chairman, has rejected the military suggestion seeking revival the national ID system to achieve law and order
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-13&sec=4&aid=45663

JdV hinamon vs moral revolution sa Arroyo gov’t
KAILANGANG gawing makatotohanan ni Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr., ang panawagan nitong “moral revolution” sa administrasyong Arroyo upang magbago ang pagtingin ng publiko sa sarili nito at sa Kamara de Representantes bilang isang institusyon.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-13&sec=4&aid=45705



January 14, 2008 Mind Bullet Inc.
I.BANNER STORIES

1. Philippine Daily Inquirer

SC designates 117 environment courts

By Leila Salaverria

Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 02:59:00 01/14/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- The Supreme Court has designated 117 trial courts as “environmental courts” to hear cases involving violations of laws protecting the country’s natural resources and to speed up their resolution.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20080114-112156/SC_designates_117_environment_courts



2. The Philippine Star

AMLC probing corruption cases involving P1.4 B

By Des Ferriols
Monday, January 14, 2008

The Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) said it is still investigating at least seven corruption-related cases involving some P1.404 billion worth of funds.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080113120



3. Manila Times

VAT suspension antipoor

Proposal by Sen. Roxas will only benefit rich people – IMF

By Chino S. Leyco, Reporter

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) warned that lifting the 12-percent value-added tax on oil products will give investors a negative impression of the Philippines.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2008/jan/14/yehey/top_stories/20080114top1.html



4. Malaya

Gonzalez slammed for media gag
Order not cleared with Cabinet

REVIEW the Constitution.

This was Sen. Panfilo Lacson’s advice yesterday to Justice Secretary Raul Gonzalez who has told media practitioners not to interfere in legitimate police and military operations on the pain of sanctions.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/jan14/news1.htm


5. Manila Bulletin

117 courts to handle ‘green cases’

Special courts assigned environmental disputes; Creation of ‘Green courts’ proposed in global forum

Rey G. Panaligan

The Supreme Court (SC) has designated 117 trial courts as environmental or "green" courts to handle expeditiously all environmental cases like those involving illegal fishing, illegal logging, illegal mining, and dumping of toxic wastes.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20080114114360.html



6. The Daily Tribune

Palace steers clear of Gonzalez advisory

By Sherwin C. Olaes

01/14/2008

After receiving a hail of protest from media groups, including those abroad, Malacañang washed its hands of Justice Secretary Raul Gonzalez’s advisory issued to media outfits last Friday warning journalists that they risk being prosecuted if they interfere with police operations.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20080114hed1.html



7. Abante

P37B PORK BARREL ITAPAL SA OIL EVAT

Nina Eralyn Prado at Juliet de Loza

Aabot sa P37 bilyong pork barrel ng mga mambabatas ang maaring ipantapal sa mawawalang buwis sa panukalang pagsususpinde sa 12-percent value added tax sa mga produktong langis na hindi tataas ang budget deficit sa 2008 national budget at makakaluwag sa mga consumers na kinakaharap sa patuloy na pagtaas ng world oil prices.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/jan1408/default.htm



8. Abante-Tonite

PALASYO NAKORNER SA MEDIA WARNING

Nina ROSE MIRANDA at REY MARFIL

Nalagay sa alanganing sitwasyon ang Malacañang matapos magkabuhul-buhol ang mga opisyales ni Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo nang matanong kung aprubado nito ang media warning na ipinalabas ni Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Raul Gonzalez kung saan nagbanta itong posibleng maharap sa “criminal liabilities” ang mga mamamahayag na susuway sa mga panuntunan kapag panahon ng emergencies.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/jan1408/headline_story1.htm



9. Pilipino Star Ngayon

Erap ‘pa-cute’ lang

Ni Rudy Andal
Monday, January 14, 2008

Maaari umanong “nagpapa-cute” lamang sa kanyang mga tagasuporta si dating pangulong Joseph Es­trada nang sabihin nitong pipiliin niya ang kanyang sarili upang maging kandidato ng oposisyon sa darating na 2010 presidential elections.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2008011360





10. Journal

WHAT DESTAB PLOT?

By: Tess Bedico

National Security Adviser not aware of new oust-GMA move

EVEN National Security Adviser Norberto Gonzales is not aware of a supposed new destabilization plot against the administration which Justice Secretary Raul Gonzalez cited when he defended his warning to media against interfering in police operations.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-14&sec=1&aid=45790



11. Business World

BY ALEXIS DOUGLAS B. ROMERO, Reporter

Satisfaction with gov’t falls

PUBLIC SATISFACTION WITH THE WAY the Arroyo administration handles basic issues has fallen, a new Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey showed, with the government’s scores basically poorer across the board.
http://bworldonline.com/BW011408/content.php?id=001



12. Business Mirror

Family expenditures up by 3.6%

By Cai U. Ordinario
Reporter

EXPENDITURES of an average Filipino family increased by 3.6 percent in 2006, according to the final results of the 2006 Family Income and Expenditure Survey (FIES) released by the National Statistics Office (NSO).
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/01142008/headlines01.html




II. POLITICAL

Int’l group slams DOJ threat

Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 04:53:00 01/14/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- A New York-based media watchdog on Sunday called on the Philippine government to withdraw a threat to prosecute journalists who get in the way of police operations.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20080114-112166/Intl-group-slams-DOJ-threat



ANALYSIS
New gov’t-media showdown looms

By Amando Doronila

Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 05:10:00 01/14/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- The government is bracing for a fresh square-off in the new year with the media, its public enemy second only to the communist New People’s Army, following their unresolved standoff on the ground rules of press coverage of coup attempts.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20080114-112169/New-govt-media-showdown-looms


Estrada insists nation should not celebrate EDSA II

By Jocelyn Uy

Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 05:13:00 01/14/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- After making history, Joseph Estrada now sounds like he also wants to rewrite it.

As far as the first Philippine president to be impeached is concerned, the fateful week in January 2001 when he was evicted from Malacañang was “when democracy in the Philippines died.”
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20080114-112170/Estrada-insists-nation-should-not-celebrate-EDSA-II


Pardon Ninoy killers, Senator Arroyo urges

By Inquirer Staff, Arlyn dela Cruz

Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 05:36:00 01/14/2008

Most Read

MANILA, Philippines -- The executive secretary of former President Corazon Aquino, Sen. Joker Arroyo, believes it is time for the government to pardon the 13 ex-soldiers jailed for more than 17 years for the assassination of her husband, Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20080114-112172/Pardon-Ninoy-killers-Senator-Arroyo-urges


Senators seek peek at oil companies’ books

By Gil C. Cabacungan Jr.

Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 06:19:00 01/14/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- Senators are urging Malacañang to force oil companies to open their books to ensure more transparency in their oil shipments and pricing in the face of surging crude oil prices in the world market.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20080114-112176/Senators-seek-peek-at-oil-companies-books


Engineering grads want retake results held

By Margaux Ortiz

Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 06:29:00 01/14/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- A group of civil engineering graduates is set to file a motion asking the Court of Appeals to stop the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) from releasing the results of last Saturday’s retake of the licensure exams.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20080114-112179/Engineering-grads-want-retake-results-held


SC approves creation of 117 environmental courts

By Mike Frialde
Monday, January 14, 2008

In a bid to improve the handling of cases related to violations of environmental laws, the Supreme Court has approved the creation of 117 environmental or “green courts.”
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080113122


Palace downplays Erap plan for 2010

By Paolo Romero
Monday, January 14, 2008

Malacañang reminded ousted President Joseph Estrada yesterday that the Constitution bars him from running again for the presidency in 2010.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080113124


Joker: Pardon 13 Ninoy killers

By Christina Mendez
Monday, January 14, 2008

The executive secretary of former President Corazon Aquino backed yesterday a plan of the Public Attorney’s Office to ask President Arroyo to grant executive clemency to 13 of the 15 convicted killers of Sen. Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr. and his military-tagged assassin, Rolando Galman.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080113125


GMA prods Cabinet to work harder amid performance review

By Paolo Romero
Monday, January 14, 2008

In the midst of an ongoing performance review on members of her official family, President Arroyo prodded her Cabinet officials to work harder in implementing the programs of her administration.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080113131


BF told to solve EDSA traffic first before aiming for presidency

By Jess Diaz
Monday, January 14, 2008

Chairman Bayani Fernando of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) was urged yesterday to solve the traffic along EDSA before aiming for the presidency and offering to tackle bigger problems.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080113137


Finance wants single tax rate for sin products

The Department of Finance is proposing a single tax rate for alcohol and tobacco products, in a plan to raise higher government revenues.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2008/jan/14/yehey/top_stories/20080114top4.html


Strong peso pushing power rates down

By Euan Paulo C. Añonuevo, Reporter

More power rate cuts are likely given the strong performance of the Philippine peso versus the US dollar, the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) said.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2008/jan/14/yehey/top_stories/20080114top5.html


Senate bills to create seat for seniors on local govt councils

By Efren L. Danao, Senior Reporter

Editor’s note: The first part reported on Sen. Edgardo Angara’s bill to exempt seniors from the EVAT and on Sen. Loren Legarda’s bill to exempt seniors from paying the final 20-percent withholding tax on interest income from bank deposits.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2008/jan/14/yehey/top_stories/20080114top6.html


Suspend EVAT on oil for 6 months–Roxas

By Efren L. Danao, Senior Reporter

Senator Mar Roxas urged the officials and allies of Malacañang to stop questioning his motives or resorting to name-calling, and instead consider the merits of his proposal to suspend for six months of the 12-percent value-added tax (VAT) on oil products.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2008/jan/14/yehey/metro/20080114met1.html


House denies increasing pork barrel in 2008 budget

By Maricel V. Cruz, Reporter

The House Committee on Appropriations vehemently denied the accusation of former Senator Franklin Drilon that the Lower House made insertions in the budget bill to increase the pork barrel funds for legislators by P13.5 billion.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2008/jan/14/yehey/metro/20080114met2.html


Hopes for suspension of VAT on oil shift to energy summit

SEN. Mar Roxas yesterday said he was counting on the energy summit called by President Arroyo to tackle his proposal to suspend the collection of the 12 percent value-added tax on oil products for at least six months.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/jan14/news3.htm


Opposition: Sack execs for tax shortfall

BY WENDELL VIGILIA

OPPOSITION congressmen yesterday said heads must roll because of the heavy shortfall in tax collection last year.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/jan14/news5.htm


Audit of debts urged

AN Independent Citizens Audit Commission should be created to examine government’s books to find out its real debt situation, said the People Against Illegitimate Debt (PAID!) over the weekend.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/jan14/news7.htm


Palace upholds DoJ on advisory against newsmen

Genalyn D. Kabiling

Malacañang yesterday declared it would stand pat on its threat to prosecute journalists who interfere in police-military operations.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20080114114363.html


Lakas-CMD meeting to focus on electoral reforms, automation

Ben R. Rosario

The Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (CMD) convention scheduled on Thursday and Friday, Jan. 17-18, at the historic landmark Manila Hotel will focus on party proposals for electoral reforms and poll automation, not on the choice of its bet for the 2010 presidential elections.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20080114114366.html


Groups to drop fare hike plea if EVAT is cancelled

Chito A. Chavez

Transport group leaders belonging to the United Transport Koalisyon (1-UTAK) are calling for the suspension of the 12-percent expanded value added tax (EVAT) on petroleum products in exchange for the withdrawal of their petition for fare increase which they have filed before the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).
http://www.mb.com.ph/MTNN20080114114332.html


GMA warned vs ID system push sans Congress nod

An opposition lawmaker yesterday warned Malacañang’s intent to push through with the imple-mentation of a national identification system without the approval of Congress could send a wrong signal that the Arroyo administration is deep into harassing opposition leaders critical of the government.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20080114hed4.html


Roxas still hopes Malacañang will heed VAT moratorium call

01/14/2008

Despite criticisms received and exchange of tirades with Malacañang, Sen. Manuel “Mar” Roxas II is still hoping that the Executive department would heed his proposed moratorium on the collection of the 12-percent value-added tax (VAT) on petroleum products for at least six months.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20080114hed6.html


Palasyo nagkagulo sa 'Scare Tactic'

Nina ROSE MIRANDA at JULIET DE LOZA

Nagkabuhul-buhol ang pahayag ngayon ng Malacañang nang makorner kung aprubado ba nito ang press warning na ipinalabas kamakailan ni Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Raul Gonzalez.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/jan1408/news02.htm


Solons urge Arroyo to penalize finance officials for revenue shortfall of BIR in ’07

01/14/2008

Three opposition lawmakers yesterday urged President Arroyo to impose the Lateral Attrition Law on high-ranking finance officials and collectors of the Bureau of Internal Revenue, including Finance Secretary Margarito Teves, due to the reported P50 billion to P60 billion revenue shortfall of the BIR last year.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/metro/20080114met2.html


PCGG inalerto sa cases sa ibang bansa

(Grace Velasco)

Pinamamadali ni Justice Secretay Raul Gonzalez sa Presidential Commission on Good Government (PCGG) ang pagresolba sa mga kaso ng Pilipinas na nakasampa sa korte sa ibang bansa.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/jan1408/news04.htm


Linggu-linggong rollback sa LPG, posible

ni: (Vladi Eduarte)

Bahagyang makakahinga ng maluwag ang publiko sa pinakahuling anunsiyo ng LPG Marketers Association (LPGMA) na magpapatupad sila ng 50-sentimos na rollback sa ibinebentang liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/jan1408/headline_story2.htm


Sentido-kumon sa energy crisis -- Ping

ni: Author

Ito ang naging reaksyon ni Sen. Panfilo “Ping” Lacson sa walang katapusang energy summit na itinutulak ng Malacañang matapos irason ng mambabatas na ‘political will’ ang kailangang makita ng mamamayan para maibsan ang kanilang paghihirap.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/jan1408/headline_story4.htm


FVR at GMA iisa ang diskarte

ni: (Rey Marfil)

Ganito ang paglalarawan ni Sen. Francis “Chiz” Escudero III sa Charter Change (ChaCha) na isinusulong ni Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo matapos magbago ng diskarte ang Malacañang at kasangkapanin ang federal system sa pag-amyenda ng Saligang Batas gayong obsession ang People’s Initiative nito.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/jan1408/headline_story5.htm


50-centavo LPG price cut looms

By: Alvin Murcia

THE public can heave a sigh of relief as the LPG Marketers Association is poised to implement a 50-centavo weekly price rollback.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-14&sec=4&aid=45754


Iregularidad sa bidding ng $20-M helicopters pinabubusisi

INIUTOS ni Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. ang pagtatatag ng fact-finding committee na mag-iimbestiga sa umano ay iregularidad sa bidding ng $20 milyon na helicopters na gagamitin laban sa mga rebelde at terorista.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-14&sec=4&aid=45761


Lakas will be a misnomer in 2010

By: Raul S. Beltran

FROM the most dominant party that began with the election of former President Fidel Ramos in 1992, Lakas-CMD will be a “misnomer” in 2010, without any strong presidential candidate in that year’s election.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-14&sec=4&aid=45804


For Estrada, the question remains: To run or not?

By: Alvin Murcia

SAN Juan City Mayor Joseph Victor Ejercito said over the weekend that the family of former President Joseph Estrada will definitely support him if ever he decides to seek the presidency in 2010.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-14&sec=4&aid=45821


P3.9-B DPWH pork barrel denied

THE P3.9-B net increase in the annual budget of DPWH is not a “pork barrel” insertion but an appropriation for priority locally-funded projects which were overlooked or not included in the National Expenditure Program (NEP) submitted by the President to Congress.
http://www.journal.com.ph/index.php?issue=2008-01-14&sec=4&aid=45809




January 15, 2008 Mind Bullet Inc.
I.BANNER STORIES

1. Philippine Daily Inquirer

Solons urge review of Biofuels Act

RP food supply in peril

Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 02:44:00 01/15/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- The author of the Biofuels Act of 2007 in the Senate Monday sought more governmental oversight powers over biofuel development, saying that biofuels could adversely affect the country’s ability to produce its own food.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20080115-112396/Solons_urge_review_of_Biofuels_Act


2. The Philippine Star

Magdalo group linked to destabilization plot

By Edith Regalado

Tuesday, January 15, 2008

DAVAO CITY – Adventurist military officers, especially the “Magdalo” group associated with Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV – a former naval officer – remain a threat to national security, National Security Adviser Norberto Gonzales said yesterday.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080114114


3. Manila Times

‘Pork’ insertion not legal

What congressmen did was ‘unconstitutional’

By Efren L. Danao Senior Reporter

Former Senate President Franklin Drilon said the proposed 2008 national budget would be “unconstitutional” unless the House contingent to the bicameral conference committee withdraws the “P13.5-billion extra pork barrel” inserted in the budget bill.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2008/jan/15/yehey/top_stories/20080115top1.html


4. Malaya

‘Plot’ seen as ploy to extend Esperon
Biazon: It’s part of a ‘moro moro’

BY DENNIS GADIL

SEN. Rodolfo Biazon yesterday shot down reports of a new destabilization plot against President Arroyo, saying these were intended to justify an extension of the term of AFP chief Gen. Hermogenes Esperon Jr.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/jan15/news1.htm






5. Manila Bulletin

5 nominated for Comelec

Short list submitted by Search Committee GMA to name new poll officials from 5 nominees

By GENALYN D. KABILING

A short list of five nominees has been submitted to Malacañang and from this list President Arroyo will appoint soon new officials of the Commission on Elections (Comelec), Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Lorelei Fajardo said yesterday.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20080115114408.html


6. The Daily Tribune

Coup, destab moves by Reds—NCRCom

01/15/2008

Malacañang and its military and police chiefs’ claims that a coup is being hatched by the rebels in the Armed Forces of the Philippines and still unidentified political opposition personalities, has been contradicted by the AFP as this scenario was shot down yesterday by the AFP-National Capital Region Command (NCRCom) chief Maj. Gen. Fernando Mesa, who claimed that the NCRCom has received intelligence reports that indeed, there are coup threats, but these are not coming from the Magdalo group but from the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) and its armed wing, the New People’s Army (NPA).
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20080115hed1.html


7. Abante

CURFEW ULI! -- PNP

Nina NILO MARASIGAN, TINA MENDOZA at BOYET JADULCO

Hindi mangingimi ang Philippine National Police (PNP) na irekomenda ang tuluyang pagpapatupad ng curfew sa bansa sa gitna ng alingas-ngas ng panibagong destabilisasyon laban sa gobyernong Arroyo.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/jan1508/default.htm


8. Abante-Tonite

ESTAB KATHANG-ISIP LANG NI RAUL!

Nina Bernard Taguinod at Rey Marfil

Kathang-isip at imahinasyon na lamang ni Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Raul Gonzalez ang kanyang babala na magkakaroon ng destabilisasyon laban kay Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo ngayong buwan.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/jan1508/headline_story1.htm


9. Pilipino Star Ngayon

‘Bano’ sa debate

Ni Malou Escudero

Tuesday, January 15, 2008

Hindi dapat gamiting sangkalan ng mga nais magpatalsik kay Senate President Manuel Villar Jr. ang ka­walan ng debate sa plenaryo ng Senado dahil 90 percent naman ng mga senador ay walang silbi sa debate at hindi sumasali sa talakayan.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2008011423

10. Journal


11. Business World

BY GERARD S. DELA PEÑA, Reporter

Economy expected to do well

THE PHILIPPINE ECONOMY should do well this year considering an apparent ability to withstand political noise and a strong currency, but external pressures such as fuel prices and a slow-down in the United States could again rattle financial markets.
http://bworldonline.com/BW011508/content.php?id=001


12. Business Mirror

Foreign groups push income-tax holiday
INVESTORS PUZZLED BY MANILA’S TIGHT FIST VIS-A-VIS COMPETITIVE NEIGHBORS

By Jun Vallecera
Reporter

THE Joint Foreign Chambers of Commerce of the Philippines is puzzled by the rationale behind the government’s urgent need to scrap altogether from its matrix of investment incentives certain come-ons when, unlike neighbors in the region, Manila has no network of infrastructure to boast of.
http://www.businessmirror.com.ph/01152008/headlines01.html









II. POLITICAL

Zubiri stands by biofuels law

Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 04:19:00 01/15/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- The author of the Biofuels Act in the House of Representatives, Juan Miguel Zubiri, now a senator, said biofuel development would not only help reduce the country’s diesel and gasoline imports, but also benefit the country’s farmers.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20080115-112403/Zubiri-stands-by-biofuels-law


Palace: No cut in VAT on oil

By Michelle Remo, Christine Avendaño

Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 04:59:00 01/15/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- Malacañang on Monday said it cannot suspend the 12-percent expanded value-added tax (VAT) on oil and other petroleum products but it has come up with a new tariff reduction scheme that will cushion the impact of soaring world crude prices.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20080115-112412/Palace-No-cut-in-VAT-on-oil


Pimentel sure Estrada not running in 2010

By Dona Pazzibugan, Gil C. Cabacungan Jr.

Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 04:59:00 01/15/2008


MANILA, Philippines -- Senate Minority Leader Aquilino “Nene” Pimentel Jr. said Monday he was certain that notwithstanding his pronouncements, deposed President Joseph Estrada would not seek reelection in 2010.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20080115-112413/Pimentel-sure-Estrada-not-running-in-2010


Biazon dismisses destabilization plot talk as mere ‘drama’

By Gil C. Cabacungan Jr., Allison Lopez, Leila Salaverria

Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 05:11:00 01/15/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- Sen. Rodolfo Biazon on Monday dismissed a claim by Justice Secretary Raul Gonzalez of a destabilization plot between Jan. 17 and 22 as nothing more than a “drama” to extend the term of Gen. Hermogenes Esperon Jr. as chief of staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20080115-112414/Biazon-dismisses-destabilization-plot-talk-as-mere-drama





Ex-Estrada exec leads bets for Comelec top post

Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 05:12:00 01/15/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- Former Justice Secretary Artemio Toquero, who served in the administration of ousted President Joseph Estrada, appears to be the front-runner among the five nominees for the chairmanship of the Commission on Elections (Comelec), the Philippine Daily Inquirer learned Monday.
Ex-Estrada exec leads bets for Comelec top post
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20080115-112415/Ex-Estrada-exec-leads-bets-for-Comelec-top-post


Climate, not Charter change more urgent, says senator

By Jaymee T. Gamil

Southern Luzon Bureau
First Posted 01:59:00 01/15/2008

LEGAZPI CITY—A senator has appealed to the people of Albay to talk about climate change, instead of Charter change.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/regions/view/20080115-112384/Climate-not-Charter-change-more-urgent-says-senator


LTO offices revamped amid smuggling

By Jolene Bulambot

Visayas Bureau
First Posted 22:39:00 01/14/2008

CEBU CITY—The Land Transportation Office (LTO) in Central Visayas has revamped its divisions amid allegations of a “grand collusion” between smugglers and agency officials.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/regions/view/20080114-112334/LTO-offices-revamped-amid-smuggling


Judge faces graft raps over steel firm’s takeover

By Marlon Alexander Luistro

Southern Luzon Bureau
First Posted 22:41:00 01/14/2008


BATANGAS CITY—A graft complaint has been filed at the Office of the Ombudsman against a Batangas judge who allegedly sided with a bank that was embroiled in a legal battle for control of the country’s largest steel mill.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/regions/view/20080114-112336/Judge-faces-graft-raps-over-steel-firms-takeover


Satisfaction with administration falls

Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 23:17:00 01/14/2008

MANILA, Philippines -- Public satisfaction with the Arroyo administration’s efforts to eradicate graft and corruption, help the poor, fight inflation and tell the truth, has plunged, a Social Weather Stations survey showed.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20080114-112340/Satisfaction-with-administration-falls


Villar does not see opposition unity in 2010 race

By Joey A. Gabieta
Visayas Bureau
First Posted 22:10:00 01/14/2008

TACLOBAN CITY, Philippines -- Senate President Manuel "Manny" Villar said on Monday that opposition stalwarts may not be able to avoid running against each other in the 2010 presidential elections.
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20080114-112327/Villar-does-not-see-opposition-unity-in-2010-race


GMA vulnerable to impeachment if she lifts VAT on oil

By Angelo S. Samonte And Jefferson Antiporda Reporters

President Gloria Arroyo will be courting impeachment if she suspends the 12-percent expanded value-added tax (EVAT) on imported oil products, Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Sergio Apostol said Monday.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2008/jan/15/yehey/top_stories/20080115top2.html




‘Former presidents should stay retired’

By Christina Mendez

Tuesday, January 15, 2008

Former presidents should stay in retirement and give younger political leaders the chance to lead the country, Sen. Francis Pangilinan said yesterday.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080114117


Groups want Tuquero to be Comelec chairman

By Jomar Canlas Reporter

Various groups of lawyers and judges called on President Gloria Arroyo to appoint what they described as an apolitical person with a proven track record and untarnished integrity as the next chairman of the Commission on Elections (Comelec).
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2008/jan/15/yehey/top_stories/20080115top4.html


Suspend VAT? GMA may be impeached

Tuesday, January 15, 2008

President Arroyo risks being impeached if she gives in to the growing clamor for the suspension of the 12 percent value-added tax on petroleum products.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080114118


Poll: Admin good on foreign affairs, poor on corruption

By Helen Flores

Tuesday, January 15, 2008

The Arroyo administration received a high public satisfaction rating on foreign relations but was rated poor on fighting inflation, corruption and hunger, the latest Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey revealed yesterday.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080114121


Special Report: Senior Citizens, devalued, humiliated

QC govt does more for seniors than what the law requires

By Ira Karen Apanay Senior Reporter

The Quezon City government gives and does more for senior citizens than the benefits and services specified by the Expanded Senior Citizens Act.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2008/jan/15/yehey/top_stories/20080115top8.html


Government to cut tariff on imported petroleum products to 1% next month

By Iris Gonzales

Tuesday, January 15, 2008

The government is set to slash tariffs on imported petroleum products from three to one percent by next month.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080114123


MMDA supports national ID system

By Michael Punongbayan

Tuesday, January 15, 2008

Believing that it will help in the effective delivery of basic government services and aid to the poor, Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Bayani Fernando has expressed support for the proposed implementation of a national identification system (NIS).
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080114130









‘PCSO overprinted P3-M booklets for Christmas sweepstakes’

By Ding Cervantes

Tuesday, January 15, 2008

A legal battle looms between Alpha Phi Omega International Philippines Inc. (APO) and the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) over the alleged overprinting of sweepstakes booklets for the P3-million Special Christmas Sweepstakes Draw last Dec. 16.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Headlines&p=49&type=2&sec=24&aid=20080114132


Bus operators hit lack of natural gas statios in MM

BUS operators who threw their support for the use of alternative fuels almost five years ago expressed disappointment on Monday over the failure of the government to establish Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) refilling stations in Metro Manila.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2008/jan/15/yehey/metro/20080115met3.html


Zubiri seeks news blackout on Pimentel poll protest

Koko maintains that he won over Migz if missing ballots were invalidated

By Efren L. Danao Senior Reporter

The lawyer of Sen. Juan Miguel Zubiri said Monday that he would seek a media gag order from the Senate Electoral Tribunal (SET) on the protest filed by Aquilino Pimentel 3rd, saying the case is being tried before the media based on “wrong” information fed by the Pimentel camp.
http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2008/jan/15/yehey/metro/20080115met4.html


Palace leaves suspension of oil VAT to Congress

BY REGINA BENGCO

MALACAÑANG yesterday said it is leaving to Congress the task of suspending the 12 percent value-added tax (VAT) on oil and petroleum products so as not to court an impeachment complaint against President Arroyo.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/jan15/news4.htm


Anti-reb ‘surge’ bill placed at P3B

BY JP LOPEZ

SEN. Francis "Chiz" Escudero yesterday said taxpayers will have to foot the bill of P3 billion to beef up combat troops by six battalions to defeat the communist insurgency.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/jan15/news5.htm


CPP at Magdalo magsasanib sa bagong destabilisasyon?

Tuesday, January 15, 2008

Pinaplano umano ng Communist Party of the Philippines at New People’s Army sa pakikipagsabwatan sa Magdalo Group na maglunsad ng bagong destabilisasyon upang ibagsak ang administrasyon ni Pangulong Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.
http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Bansa&p=50&type=2&sec=54&aid=2008011428


Arroyo will finish her term despite destab efforts: Razon

NATIONAL Police Director General Avelino I. Razon yesterday gave the assurance that President Arroyo will finish her term amid reports that some anti-government forces are out to grab power.
http://www.malaya.com.ph/jan15/metro1.htm


Not my intention to run but to unite opposition – Erap

By BRENDA PIQUERO TUAZON

Former President Joseph Estrada said yesterday "it is not my intention to run for the presidency but to unite the opposition" as he stressed the need to learn from the mistakes of past electoral contests.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20080115114410.html








Kampi won’t oust De Venecia, says Rep. Arroyo

By BEN R. ROSARIO

Negros Occidental Rep. Ignacio "Iggy" Arroyo, brother-in-law of President Arroyo, said yesterday that the Kabalikat ng Malayang Pilipino (Kampi), a political party established by the President, is not working for the ouster of House Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr. as speaker.
http://www.mb.com.ph/MAIN20080115114411.html


Erap: I’m victim of coup, not plotter

01/15/2008

Appearing before a jam-packed audience yesterday at the Kapihan sa Manila Hotel, a weekly news forum, former President Joseph Estrada, in response to a question posed by media on his alleged involvement in the Palace-claimed forthcoming coup d’etat, reminded the forum that he is a victim of a coup, and is neither a destabilizer nor a coup plotter.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20080115hed2.html


Call for oil tax suspension a ploy for Gloria impeach — Malacañang

01/15/2008

Malacañang yesterday practically accused lawmakers pushing the suspension of the 12-percent value-added tax (VAT) on oil of laying the ground for President Arroyo’s impeachment, claiming that if Mrs. Arroyo does what they want her to do, this could constitute culpable violation of the Constitution.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20080115hed3.html


44% believe GMA, admin lying to people

01/15/2008

A big plurality believe that President Arroyo and her administration are not telling the nation the truth, a recent Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey on public satisfaction ratings on the National Administration showed.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20080115hed5.html


Keep off the Speakership, Palace told; Villar: No coup in Senate

01/15/2008

With the reported orchestrated ouster of the two chambers’ leaders fast gaining ground as Congress resumes sessions after its Christmas break in two weeks, an opposition congressman yesterday warned Malacañang not to meddle in the Speakership issue while Senate President Manuel Villar Jr. downplayed such threat.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/headlines/20080115hed6.html




PORK BARREL ‘DI PWEDENG GALAWIN

Nina Eralyn Prado at Boyet Jadulco

Hindi maaaring gala-win o kaya’y isakripisyo kapalit ng expanded value added tax (EVAT) sa mga produktong petrolyo ang Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) ng mga kongresista na mas kilala sa tawag na ‘pork barrel’.
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/jan1508/news02.htm


Tariff cut sa langis propaganda lang?

ni: (Bernard Taguinod)

Propaganda lamang ni Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo ang ipinamalitang pagbabawas sa taripa ng mga produktong petrolyo na umano’y para maibsan ang paghihirap ng taumbayan.
Ito ang pahayag ni Bayan Muna party-list Rep. Teddy Casiño ukol sa nabibitin na pagbabawas sa taripa ng langis dahil hindi magkasundo ang mga ahensya ng gobyerno at mga kumpanya ng la-ngis sa trigger price o batayang presyo bago ipatupad ang 1% cut taripa.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/jan1508/headline_story2.htm


SWS survey patunay sa palpak na gobyerno

ni: Bernard Taguinod

Lalong lumulubog ang kredibilidad ng Arroyo government dahil sa gitna ng ipinagmamalaki ng mga ito na gumaganda ang ekonomiya ng bansa ay palaki rin nang palaki ang pagkadismaya sa kanila ng taumbayan.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/jan1508/headline_story3.htm


Minus P70 sa LPG

(Tina Mendoza)

Aabot sa P70 ang mababawas sa kasalukuyang presyo ng liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) sa oras na suspendehin ng pamahalaan ang ipinatutupad nitong 12% expanded value added tax (EVAT), ayon sa Liquefied Petroleum Gas Marketers Association (LPGMA).
http://www.abante.com.ph/issue/jan1508/news06.htm


Binay sa 2010 mahihirapan

ni: (Rey Marfil)

Lantarang inamin ng partidong PDP-Laban ang kahinaan kapag nag-solo flight si Makati City Mayor Jejomar “Jojo” Binay sa 2010 presidential election.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/jan1508/headline_story5.htm


Pork ni GMA tatapyasan

ni: (Rey Marfil)

Lalong nalagay sa balag ng alanganin ang multi-bilyon pisong pork barrel ni Pangulong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo sa ilalim ng 2008 national budget matapos ikasa ni Senate President Manuel Villar Jr. ang pagtapyas dito.
http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/jan1508/headline_story6.htm


MMDA chief backs nat’l ID system

01/15/2008

The proposed national ID system got the backing of Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Bayani Fernando, who said it would help the government identify the real and deserving beneficiaries of assistance and services, particularly informal settlers.
http://www.tribune.net.ph/metro/20080115met6.html