Philippines breaking news: December 2010

Thursday, December 30, 2010

Melo replacement known in January

By Delon Porcalla (The Philippine Star) Updated December 30, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - The next chairman of the Commission on Elections – who will most likely be an outsider – will be named by President Aquino next month before Chairman Jose Melo retires on Jan. 31, Malacañang announced yesterday.

Lawmen warned: Fire guns, get fired

By Cecille Suerte Felipe (The Philippine Star) Updated December 30, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - Fire your guns – and get fired.

This was the stern warning of Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo to policemen, firemen and jail personnel who might try to greet the New Year by firing their guns.

Hundreds of workers failed to get 13th month pay - DOLE

By Mayen Jaymalin (The Philippine Star) Updated December 30, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - The Christmas holiday is almost over, but a lot of workers nationwide have yet to receive their mandated 13th month pay and Christmas bonuses, according to the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).

'More Pinoys leaving to work as domestic helpers abroad'

By Mayen Jaymalin (The Philippine Star) Updated December 30, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - More Filipinos are leaving to work as domestic helpers abroad, the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) said yesterday.

New SCTEX toll rates to take effect Jan. 1

(The Philippine Star) Updated December 30, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - The Toll Regulatory Board (TRB) has given provisional approval for a 7.22 percent toll increase for the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX), raising the basic rates for the country’s longest tollway from the authorized toll rate of P2.49 to P2.67 per kilometer for Class 1 vehicles.

Quezon, Nueva Ecija mishaps leave 6 dead, 18 hurt

By Michelle Zoleta and Ric Sapnu (The Philippine Star) Updated December 30, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - Six people were killed and 18 others sustained injuries when a passenger bus fell off a cliff in Pagbilao, Quezon and three motorcycles rammed into an ambulance in Nueva Ecija last Tuesday, authorities said.

Government intends to distribute .3 million hectares of land in 2011

By Jess Diaz (The Philippine Star) Updated December 30, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - The government intends to acquire some 300,000 hectares of private and public estates next year for distribution to agrarian reform beneficiaries, Cebu Rep. Eduardo Gullas said yesterday.

DOJ lifts hold departure order vs Samsung execs

(The Philippine Star) Updated December 30, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Justice (DOJ) has lifted the hold departure order (HDO) of two Korean executives of Samsung Electronics Philippines Corp. (Sepco) because they are not flight risks.

NBI: Chinese fraud syndicate operates in Southeast Asia

By Sandy Araneta (The Philippine Star) Updated December 30, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - The fraud syndicate led by Chinese national Wei Hao Lo, whose 24 members were arrested last Monday, has been operating in Southeast Asian countries, according to the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).

US Navy to conduct autopsy on officer

By Aie Balagtas See (The Philippine Star) Updated December 30, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - A local funeral parlor official disclosed yesterday that US Navy pathologists would conduct an autopsy today on the remains of the Filipino-American naval officer who reportedly committed suicide after he was caught carrying a small amount of cocaine at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) last Sunday.

Miriam seeks stiffer penalties for reckless driving

By Christina Mendez (The Philippine Star) Updated December 30, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - Amid the increasing number of vehicular accidents caused by reckless driving, Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago pushed yesterday for the passage of the Vehicle Accidents Act that imposes higher penalties for offenders.

Rizal Park to hold New Year countdown

By Evelyn Macairan (The Philippine Star) Updated December 30, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - The National Parks Development Committee (NPDC) invites the people to come to the Rizal Park in Manila and enjoy an unobstructed view of the fireworks display during New Year’s Eve on Dec. 31 to welcome Year 2011.

Local borrowing plan bared; global peso bond offer OK’d

Business World

THE GOVERNMENT, which relies on debt to plug a deficit and support its vital programs, will borrow P114 billion from the domestic market in the first quarter of 2011.

WTO panel says liquor tax ruling out in June 2011

Business World

A DECISION on the United States’ and the European Union’s complaint against Philippine liquor taxes will be issued in June, a World Trade Organization (WTO) panel said in a communique.

Christmas sales up from last year, grocers say

Business World

But same-store sales likely dropped

CONSUMERS bought more Christmas groceries this year but individual stores are unlikely to have recorded sales growth as more shops competed for patronage, industry groups said late on Tuesday.

Foreign debt rises to $59.8 billion

Business World

THE COUNTRY’S outstanding foreign debt rose by 9.3% as of end-September, due to more borrowings and upward foreign exchange revaluation, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said in a statement yesterday.

Customs computerized system to cover exporters starting Jan.

Business World

TRADERS should be able to process their export declarations faster when these are covered by the Customs bureau’s electronic-to-mobile (e2m Customs) system starting Jan. 13, 2011.

New Laguindingan airport seen operational by 2012

Business World

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY -- The P8-billion Laguindingan International Airport located between the cities of Cagayan de Oro in Misamis Oriental and Iligan in Lanao del Norte will be completed in third quarter next year and should be ready to accommodate regular flights by February 2012, the regional office of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) said.

Aboitiz Transport sale closed; Nenaco to hold tender offer

Business World

LISTED ABOITIZ Transport System Corp. said major shareholders Aboitiz Equity Ventures, Inc. and Aboitiz & Co., Inc., have completed the sale of their respective shareholdings to Negros Navigation Co., Inc.

Nido-led consortium abandons Tindalo oil well

Business World

THE CONSORTIUM holding the concession covering the Tindalo oil well has decided to abandon the project due to declining production rates.

BSP hikes inflation forecasts

Business World

Rates unchanged; adjustments expected next year

THE CENTRAL BANK kept key rates unchanged during its final 2010 policy meeting yesterday but prospects of an upward adjustment next year increased as it also issued higher inflation forecasts.

Proposed tariff structure favors existing investments

Business World

BY JESSICA ANNE D. HERMOSA, Senior Reporter

A NEW TARIFF structure proposed for goods traded outside preferential agreements plans to support existing investments by keeping rates favorable for manufacturers such as those that make electronics and glass, officials yesterday said.

(The Philippine Star) Updated December 30, 2010

Fire and get fired, Interior Secretary Jesse Robredo has warned cops, firefighters and jail guards who fire their guns to greet the New Year.

POSTSCRIPT By Federico D. Pascual Jr. (The Philippine Star) Updated December 30, 2010

DANGEROUS DRIFT: In this country, it is normal for anybody, or his lawyer, who loses a court case to complain that he was singled out or that the judge was bought by the other party.

16 major concerns

This summary is not available. Please click here to view the post.

The biggest 2010 event for the Filipino nation

AS I WRECK THIS CHAIR By William M. Esposo (The Philippine Star) Updated December 30, 2010

Easily the biggest event in 2010 in the life of our nation was the ascendancy of President Benigno Simeon C. Aquino III (P-Noy). It’s the biggest event of 2010 because his ascendancy had immediately positively transformed our country.

By Abac Cordero (The Philippine Star) Updated December 30, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - Bob Arum has another big fight lined up at the back of his mind, and it’s not one featuring Manny Pacquiao.

Team owners meet on TV deal, Phl five

By Nelson Beltran (The Philippine Star) Updated December 30, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - The PBA team owners meet for the first time in a long while on Jan. 25 to resolve major business concerns, including the league’s next TV coveror.

Kristine-Oyo wedding to be held in Batangas: source

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MANILA, Philippines – The upcoming wedding of Kristine Hermosa and Oyo Boy Sotto is the first biggest celebrity event in 2011.

Celebrities share their New Year's resolutions

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MANILA, Philippines – It has been a tradition among individuals around the world to reflect on the things that they have done in the past year and to commit to do changes whenever a new year is about to start. Celebrities are not excluded in this custom.

What's the real score between Bea, Zanjoe?

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MANILA, Philippines- Rumors of actress Bea Alonzo and actor Zanjoe Marudo dating are rife as reports of them being sighted together now abound.

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MANILA, Philippines - Three giant mushrooms were found in Davao City this week.

By Caroline J. Howard, ANC

MANILA, Philippines - Welcome as the holidays might be--luring anyone to jump into the season with total surrender-- it could also come with its own share of stresses: whether from dealing with the horrendous traffic or making last minute trips to packed malls and getting caught in the maddening shopping frenzy.

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MANILA, Philippines - A feng shui expert believes that 2011 -- or the Year of the Rabbit -- will be good for most people.

Dancing Cebu Pac attendants' video among 2010's most shared

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MANILA, Philippines - Dancing flight attendants surely caught netizens' attention in 2010.

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MANILA, Philippines - Gone are the days when Filipinos' holiday celebrations are limited to malls and theme parks.

Supreme Court: We're not anti-P-Noy

By Edu Punay (The Philippine Star) Updated December 29, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - The Supreme Court (SC) yesterday denied allegations of President Aquino that it was “singling out” his administration in several rulings that purportedly put legal obstacles to his reform program.

1,000 firecracker injuries seen

By Sheila Crisostomo (The Philippine Star) Updated December 29, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - The number of firecracker-related injuries could reach 1,000 by Jan. 1, Health Secretary Enrique Ona said yesterday.

House can live with budget veto

(The Philippine Star) Updated December 29, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - The House of Representatives will not try to overturn President Aquino’s veto of 13 provisions in the approved P1.645-trillion national budget for next year.

DOJ chief may lead delegation in Hong Kong hostage probe

By Edu Punay (The Philippine Star) Updated December 29, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - Malacañang is considering designating Justice Secretary Leila de Lima to head the delegation that would attend the investigation by Hong Kong authorities of the Aug. 23 hostage-taking incident at the Rizal Park in Manila where eight Hong Kong tourists and the hostage-taker were killed after a botched police rescue operation.

Fewer Pinoys hired abroad in 2010 - POEA

By Mayen Jaymalin (The Philippine Star) Updated December 29, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - Fewer Filipino workers were hired abroad this year due to the global financial crisis, the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) has reported.

'Renewed confidence in Phl improves employment rate'

By Aurea Calica (The Philippine Star) Updated December 29, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - Renewed confidence in the Philippine business climate has improved employment and reduced unemployment and underemployment figures in 2010, according to President Aquino.

Rebel soldiers applying for amnesty not required to recant allegations

By Alexis Romero (The Philippine Star) Updated December 29, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - Rebel soldiers who will apply for amnesty are not required to recant their allegations against the Arroyo administration but should admit they violated laws when they participated in uprisings against the government, the Department of National Defense (DND) said.

DOST developing low-cost water filtration technology

By Helen Flores (The Philippine Star) Updated December 29, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is developing a low-cost water filtration technology to give households in slum areas access to clean, potable water. Science Secretary Mario Montejo said the Industrial Technology Development Institute of the DOST is testing the nanotechnology-based water filtration system.

Navy planning to acquire seven vessels next year

By Alexis Romero (The Philippine Star) Updated December 29, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - The Navy plans to acquire seven vessels next year to improve its operations and upgrade its capabilities.

Senate's Economic Planning Office seeks review of NFA functions

By Christina Mendez (The Philippine Star) Updated December 29, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - While all eyes are focused on how government-owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs) are performing, the Senate’s Economic Planning Office (SEPO) has recommended a government review of the functions of the National Food Authority (NFA).

YEARENDER: Waning insurgency helps propel Bicol's growth

By Celso Amo (The Philippine Star) Updated December 29, 2010

LEGAZPI CITY, Philippines – A waning communist insurgency is one of the major factors propelling Bicol’s high growth for the first time in the region’s history.

Baguio chill dips to 12.2°

By Artemio Dumlao (The Philippine Star) Updated December 29, 2010

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – This year, this vacation capital’s “signature December chill” came more than three weeks late.

20% SLEX, NLEX toll discount sought

By Jess Diaz (The Philippine Star) Updated December 29, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - Two Mindanao congressmen urged Congress yesterday to grant a 20-percent discount on private vehicles with at least four passengers using the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), South Luzon Expressway (SLEX), Metro Manila Skyway, and the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX).

3 killed in ambulance mishap on Skyway

By Aie Balagtas See (The Philippine Star) Updated December 29, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - A cancer patient and his wife were killed early morning yesterday after the ambulance they were riding crashed into a toll plaza booth of the Skyway portion in Taguig City.

NCRPO chief inspects LRT, MRT

By Non Alquitran and Mike Frialde (The Philippine Star) Updated December 29, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - To prevent the spillover of the Sulu violence in Metro Manila, National Capital Region Police Office chief Director Nicanor Bartolome inspected yesterday the Light Rail Transit (LRT) and Metro Rail Transit (MRT) platforms and stations to ensure the safety of the riding public.

Fil-Am who committed suicide negative for drugs

By Jerry Botial and Rudy Santos (The Philippine Star) Updated December 29, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - Laboratory tests on specimens seized from a Fil-Am naval officer held at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport last week tested negative for any dangerous drugs, Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) authorities said yesterday.

Early budget submission set

Business World

Aquino okays calendar; Congress to receive proposal in July

AFTER PULLING OFF an on-schedule approval of next year’s budget, the Aquino administration is now targeting an early submission of the 2012 outlay, a Cabinet official said.

New Year hope very high

Business World

BY ANA MAE G. ROA, Reporter

MORE FILIPINOS are hopeful of the coming New Year, the Social Weather Stations (SWS) said, with their number near a record high hit eight years ago.

Bank merger okayed by BSP

Business World

BY ANN ROZAINNE R. GREGORIO

THE CENTRAL BANK has approved the merger of Robinsons Savings Bank, the banking arm of Gokongwei-led JG Summit Holdings, Inc., and Robinsons Bank Corp., formerly known as the Royal Bank of Scotland (Philippines) Inc.

Aquino wants plan on informal settlers by January

Business World

Resettlement could cost government P100 billion

THE GOVERNMENT is reviving efforts to definitively address the proliferation of informal settlers in Metro Manila.

Tacloban airport rehab estimated to cost P5B

Business World

TACLOBAN CITY -- Some P5 billion will be needed to fully rehabilitate the Daniel Z. Romualdez (DZR) Airport here, according to a report of the House of Representatives committee on transportation.

More Pinoys access microfinance Number of clients in RP increased -- ADB report

Business World

THE NUMBER of active microfinance clients in the Philippines increased between 2006 and 2008 following the implementation of a project by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), a report released yesterday by the multilateral lending agency showed.

Century Peak invests in new property company

Business World

LISTED MINER Century Peak Metals Holdings Corp. said yesterday has bought into a newly formed property company, in part to save on housing costs.

Listed firm buys into new owner of AG&P

Business World

LISTED HOLDING firm South China Resources, Inc. has acquired a minority stake in a consortium that bought Atlantic Gulf and Pacific Co. of Manila, Inc. (AG&P) from the Consunjis.

(The Philippine Star) Updated December 29, 2010

While the Sandiganbayan deliberates on a plea bargain proposed by accused plunderer Maj. Gen. Carlos Garcia, it is useful to go over the statements of his wife that led to their family’s downfall.

GOTCHA By Jarius Bondoc (The Philippine Star) Updated December 29, 2010

News from San Francisco stunned Filipinos on March 5, 2009. Ian Carl and Juan Paolo Garcia had been granted bail of $2 million as their trial began for dollar smuggling into the US five years prior.

SKETCHES By Ana Marie Pamintuan (The Philippine Star) Updated December 29, 2010

On the Feast of the Holy Innocents we looked back on the year that’s about to pass, and listed several positive developments.

CTALK By Cito Beltran (The Philippine Star) Updated December 29, 2010

While visiting the Bangkok Safari Park, I decided to conduct a walking interview with our tour guide “Kiti” about his life as a tour guide and the industry he works in.

COMMONSENSE By Marichu A. Villanueva (The Philippine Star) Updated December 29, 2010

As promised, President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III signed the P1.645-trillion General Appropriations Act (GAA) of 2011 five days before the current budget year ended. The government’s newly approved budget for next year under Republic Act (RA) 10147 became the first statute that President Aquino signed into law after first six months in office.

New judge to hear Willie case vs ABS-CBN named

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MANILA, Philippines – The case filed by Willie Revillame against his former home network, ABS-CBN, was re-raffled to a new Quezon City judge on Tuesday.

Quizon family happy for Dolphy's MMFF awards

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Posted at12/29/2010

MANILA, Philippines – The Quizon family is extremely happy after Comedy King Dolphy won top awards in the recent Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) awards night.

MMFF official explains Ai-Ai's best actress prize

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MANILA, Philippines – A Palace official on Tuesday shed light on the controversy over Ai-Ai delas Alas’s best actress award at the36th Metro Manila Film Festival.

FIFA, AFC to look into mess

By Abac Cordero (The Philippine Star) Updated December 29, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) and the world’s governing body in the sport, the Federation Internationale de Football Association or FIFA, are bringing in legal officers to Manila to look deeper into the mess within the Philippine Football Federation (PFF).

De Jesus, Lim reach quarters

(The Philippine Star) Updated December 29, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - Top seed Cassandra Lim rolled past Mikaela Aquino while No. 2 Kaydee de Jesus scored a walkover win to reach the quarterfinal round of the girls singles Under-15 in the Ming Ramos-Victor National Open and Youth Badminton Championships at Club 650 yesterday.

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MANILA, Philippines - The Christmas holiday season in the Philippines is marked by many parties and reunions with family and friends. It's no wonder then that overeating occurs, and with it come ailments.

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MANILA, Philippines - December 31, probably the noisiest time in any given year, is only 3 days away.

3 holiday hangouts in Manila for Pinoys on a budget

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MANILA, Philippines - For cash-strapped Filipinos who want a change of scenery this holiday season, here are 3 places where kids and adults can have fun without leaving a hole in the pocket.

Tips on how to handle firecrackers 'safely'

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MANILA, Philippines - Since fireworks and firecrackers have traditionally been a part of New Year celebrations in the country, there will undoubtedly be many who will light some on New Year's Eve despite an appeal from the Department of Health to use pots and pans instead.

'Philippines one of top holiday hotspots for 2011'

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MANILA, Philippines - An Australian travel website considers the country as one of the must-see destinations next year, primarily because of its untapped pristine beaches.

Pope to Catholics: Have courage amid church bombings

By AP (The Philippine Star) Updated December 27, 2010

VATICAN CITY — Iraqi Christians celebrated a somber Christmas in a Baghdad cathedral stained with dried blood, while Pope Benedict XVI exhorted Chinese Catholics to stay loyal despite restrictions on them in a holiday address laced with worry for the world’s Christian minorities.

'Agimat' is top grosser in filmfest

By Ricky Lo (The Philippine Star) Updated December 27, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - The Metro Manila Development Authority might hit or even exceed its goal of grossing P.5 billion during the 10-day 2010 Metro Manila Film Festival from Dec. 25 to Jan. 3, judging from the P89.7-million nationwide opening day gross of the eight official entries, broken down as follows:

Truce broken in Mindoro

By Alexis Romero (The Philippine Star) Updated December 27, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - The military and communist rebels yesterday accused each other of violating the Christmas ceasefire when an Army squad clashed with New People’s Army (NPA) guerrillas in San Jose, Occidental Mindoro last Thursday.

Audit shows Ampatuans amassed P2 billion in one year

By Edith Regalado (The Philippine Star) Updated December 27, 2010

DAVAO CITY, Philippines - An ongoing audit showed that former Maguindanao Gov. Andal Ampatuan Sr. amassed more than P2 billion from provincial coffers for the period covering 2008 to 2009 alone.

Sayyaf-linked group frees businesswoman

By Roel Pareño (The Philippine Star) Updated December 27, 2010

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines – A kidnapping gang with links to the Abu Sayyaf freed on Christmas Day a 60-year-old businesswoman who had been held captive for almost two months in the mountains of Basilan, authorities said.

Magat Dam plant to boost power generation capacity

By Charlie Lagasca (The Philippine Star) Updated December 27, 2010

BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya, Philippines – Amid the increasing demand for electricity, the Magat power plant located along the Isabela-Ifugao border would be enhancing its generation capacity, making it the biggest power contributor among hydropower plants in the Luzon grid.

DOTC gears up to probe complaints vs abusive cabbies

By Rainier Allan Ronda (The Philippine Star) Updated December 27, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) will pursue the hundreds of complaints filed against abusive taxicab drivers that their Action Center Hotline 7890 received during the Christmas holiday break, an official said yesterday.

NCRCOM sees no spillover of violence from Jolo blast

By Alexis Romero (The Philippine Star) Updated December 27, 201

MANILA, Philippines - The Armed Forces National Capital Region Command (NCRCOM) is confident that there would be no spillover of violence in Metro Manila after the Christmas Day explosion in Jolo, Sulu that wounded nine people.

Strong inflow surprises BSP

By Lawrence Agcaoili (The Philippine Star) Updated December 27, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) was surprised with the strong capital inflows that continue to flood emerging market economies particularly the Philippines but is ready with its enhanced toolkit to prevent the build up of inflation pressures.

Investments in ecozones seen to expand by 10% in 2011

By Ma. Elisa P. Osorio (The Philippine Star) Updated December 27, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - Investments in the country’s ecozones are expected to grow by 10 percent to P225 billion as more foreign electronics and manufacturing firms are seen to locate in the Philippines, the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) reported.

Batangas port starts handling international shipments

By Ma. Elisa P. Osorio (The Philippine Star) Updated December 27, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - After being underutilized for some time, the international shipment for the Batangas port has started after the Regional Container Lines (RCL) started docking in the port this month, the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) reported.

Power firms seek additional 6-mo to buy transmission assets of government

By Donnabelle L. Gatdula (The Philippine Star) Updated December 27, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - Power distribution utilities have urged the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) to extend the deadline for the acquisition of sub-transmission assets (STAs) of the National Transmission Corp. (TransCo) by another six months from Dec. 31, 2010 to June 30, 2011.

(The Philippine Star) Updated December 27, 2010

Firecracker manufacturers told the secretary of health to mind other matters such as dengue and rabies, as they vowed to stay in business despite the “Iwas Paputok” campaign.

A LAW EACH DAY (Keeps Trouble Away) By Jose C. Sison (The Philippine Star) Updated December 27, 2010

As expected, the nation’s mood is rosier this year than last year. Sixty nine (69%) percent of adult Filipinos surveyed by SWS during the period between November 27-30, 2010 said that they expected Christmas to be “happy” this year than 62-64 percent of them who said so last year. This is not surprising given the difference in the country’s condition now and last year especially in politics.

COMMONSENSE By Marichu A. Villanueva (The Philippine Star) Updated December 27, 2010

Win some. Lose some. This seemed to be the see-saw situation of the Philippine Airlines (PAL) in its continuing labor problems with their pilots, flight attendants and ground crew. Filipino-Chinese taipan Lucio Tan who is the majority owner of PAL is no stranger to surviving labor disputes that erupt every now and then in the flag carrier through all these years.

Ai Ai, Dolphy sweep Metro Manila Film Fest major awards

By Boy Villasanta, abs-cbnNEWS.com

Posted at 12/27/2010

2010 MMFFP awards night: some gripes, some surprises

Ai Ai emotional over MMFF best actress victory

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Posted at 12/27/2010

MANILA, Philippines - Comedy Queen Ai Ai delas Alas on Sunday thanked God after she won the best actress trophy in the 36th Metro Manila Film Festival on Sunday.

MTRCB chair denies bias for Dolphy

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Posted at 12/27/2010

MANILA, Philippines - Grace Poe-Llamanzares, chairwoman of the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB), cleared speculations that the board gave the controversial film "Father Jejemon" a general patronage (GP) rating because the lead actor, Comedy King Dolphy, is a good family friend.

Manny Sports Illustrated's top boxing story

By Abac Cordero (The Philippine Star) Updated December 27, 2010

MANILA, Philippines – Manny Pacquiao is on top of Sports Illustrated’s boxing stories for 2010.

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MANILA, Philippines – It is the season when people tend to become unhealthy. They take a break from exercising, they eat and drink more and they sleep less.

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Posted at 12/27/2010

MANILA, Philippines - A day after Christmas, veteran komiks novelist Pablo S. Gomez passed away. He was 81.

2010 growth to top official target -- gov’t

Business World

Economic growth will likely ease in the final three months of 2010 but the full-year target of 5.0-6.0% will still be exceeded, a Cabinet official said on Thursday.

Manufacturing output growth slows

Business World

Factory output moderated to a 10-month low in October, results economists and industry officials attributed to manufacturers already having wrapped up production ahead of Christmas.

Imports up 28.4% in October

Business World

Merchandise imports rose by an annual 28.4% in October -- the fastest pace in five months -- on the back of sustained demand for consumer goods, particularly electronics, and rising global oil prices, the government reported on Thursday.

State borrowings rise to P721.9B by November

Business World

BORROWINGS of the national government rose by more than a third as of November on higher issuance of government securities, data the Bureau of Treasury released last Wednesday showed.

Higher inflows boost BoP components as of September

Business World

THE COUNTRY recorded a higher current account surplus in the nine months to September, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said on Thursday.

Flying V spending P1B next year, to open 66 new stations

Business World

INDEPENDENT OIL company Flying V is projecting revenues to hit P15 billion at the end of the year and has set capital expenditures at P1 billion for 2011 to finance expansion.

DoLE settles labor row, favors PAL cabin crew

Business World

LABOR SECRETARY Rosalinda D. Baldoz on Thursday resolved a labor dispute between Philippine Airlines (PAL) and its cabin crew, siding in favor of the latter three months after taking over the row.

PSE to get new market surveillance system

Business World

THE PHILIPPINE Stock Exchange (PSE) will acquire a new surveillance system early next year to monitor stock trading activities.

DMCI sells AG&P for P1.75B

Business World

CONSUNJI-LED DMCI Holdings, Inc. has sold its general contractor and steel fabricating firm to local and foreign investors for P1.75 billion, the company told the local bourse on Thursday.

Farm department to focus on improving infrastructure, services further in 2011

Business World

THE DEPARTMENT of Agriculture will focus its efforts next year on improving both infrastructure and services to farmers and fisherfolk, a yearend report released to the press on Thursday said.

IFC to guarantee 50% of BDO’s loans for energy efficiency, renewable energy

Business World

THE INTERNATIONAL Finance Corp. (IFC) will guarantee half of loans extended by Banco de Oro Unibank, Inc. (BDO) under the bank’s Sustainable Energy Finance Program.

Venus Raj building dream house for family

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Posted at 12/24/2010

MANILA,Philippines- It’s another major, major dream come true for Venus Raj.

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MANILA, Philippines –Young actress Bea Alonzo has started taping for her upcoming project with action star Robin Padilla.

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MANILA, Philippines – Apl.de.ap of the famed Black Eyed Peas on Thursday paid a courtesy call on President Benigno Aquino III in Malacañang.

'Pilipinas Win na Win' bows out New Year's Eve

abs-cbnNEWS.com

MANILA, Philippines (1st UPDATE) – ABS-CBN afternoon show “Pilipinas Win na Win (PWNW)” will have its last episode on Dec. 31, 2010, ABS-CBN Corporation announced Thursday.

La Cocina de Tita Moning: A taste of the past

By Caroline J. Howard, ANC

MANILA, Philippines - In some homes, food is a family tradition.

That's the case for Chef Suzette Montinola who follows the heirloom recipes of her grandmother, Doña Ramona "Tita Moning" Hernandez-Legarda.

For Pinoys, love trumps money and shoes this Christmas

abs-cbnNEWS.com

MANILA, Philippines - It may not cost a thing, but for Filipinos, love is the most valuable gift they could give anyone this Christmas.

Pope Benedict XVI waves as he arrives to celebrate a mass in Saint Peter's Basilica at the Vatican November 21, 2010. REUTERS/Tony Gentile

Agence France-Presse

VATICAN CITY - Pope Benedict XVI's traditional Christmas Eve mass will be streamed live on the Internet in six languages and available on iPhones around the world, the Vatican said Wednesday.

By Karen Galarpe, abs-cbnNEWS.com

MANILA, Philippines - It's party season! Are you still stuck with your everyday makeup look?

Noy bares Cabinet shakeup in January

By Aurea Calica (The Philippine Star) Updated December 24, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - President Aquino is happy with his Cabinet but he would be making some changes in his official family by January.

Palace appeals ruling on EO 1

By Edu Punay (The Philippine Star) Updated December 24, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - The Palace appealed yesterday the ruling of the Supreme Court (SC) nullifying President Aquino’s first executive order creating the Truth Commission to investigate anomalies during the administration of former president and now Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

SWS: Most Pinoys looking forward to happy Christmas

By Helen Flores (The Philippine Star) Updated December 24, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - A majority of Filipinos look forward to a happy Christmas this year, a recent Social Weather Stations (SWS) poll showed.

Noy: Rights of witnesses must be protected in HK

By Aurea Calica (The Philippine Star) Updated December 24, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine government will allow persons who might be called to testify in a public inquiry in Hong Kong regarding the Aug. 23 hostage crisis provided that they face no charges.

Chinese envoy says Beijing open to review of North Rail project

By Pia Lee-Brago (The Philippine Star) Updated December 24, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - China’s top diplomat to the Philippines said Beijing is open to a review of the $503-million North Rail project by the new government but would like to see the project continue and brought up to speed without interference.

Judges to continue protest vs cut in judiciary budget

By Edu Punay (The Philippine Star) Updated December 24, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - Judges all over the country vowed yesterday to continue next year their actions to protest the cut in the judiciary’s proposed budget for 2011, with some of them even willing to take their cause to the streets.

Hold departure order issued vs ex-AFP comptroller Garcia

By Edu Punay (The Philippine Star) Updated December 24, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - Despite being free on bail, former military comptroller Carlos Garcia has been barred from leaving the country by the Department of Justice (DOJ) enraged by a plea bargain deal meant to clear him of plunder.

DND clarifies purchase of C-130 from American bidder

By Jaime Laude (The Philippine Star) Updated December 24, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - Defense officials yesterday defended its purchase of a refurbished C-130 from a lone American-based bidder that acquired the military cargo plane from the Tunisian Air Force after it figured in a runway mishap several years ago.

DOLE rules to raise retirement age of flight attendants to 60

By Mayen Jaymalin (The Philippine Star) Updated December 24, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) yesterday ruled to raise the retirement age of flight attendants to 60 years, granting the petition of the Flight Attendants and Stewards Association of the Philippines (FASAP).

Cagayan fire survivors undergo stress debriefing

By Charlie Lagasca (The Philippine Star) Updated December 24, 2010

BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya, Philippines – Survivors in last Sunday’s hotel fire in Tuguegarao City that claimed the lives of 16 people, including 10 nursing graduates, have been undergoing stress debriefing to help them cope with the trauma that they might have suffered.

Malaysia thanks Phl for rescue of 2 workers

By ALexis Romero (The Philippine Star) Updated December 24, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - The Malaysian government thanked the Philippine authorities for the safe release of two Malaysian laborers who were abducted by lawless elements in Sabah last February.

Kidnapped Sulu student finally free

By Roel Pareño (The Philippine Star) Updated December 24, 2010

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines – A Filipino-Chinese student kidnapped by suspected Abu Sayyaf bandits more than two months ago was recovered in Sulu last Tuesday night, authorities said.

Malacañang expresses full support for mining industry

(The Philippine Star) Updated December 24, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - Looking at mining as anchor for his poverty alleviation program, President Aquino has expressed his full support for the mining industry in his message to mining companies, as relayed by Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Ramon Paje during the 57th Annual National Mine Safety Conference recently held in Baguio City.

10 cops under fire for P10-M 'hulidap'

By Non Alquitran (The Philippine Star) Updated December 24, 2010

MANILA, Philippines – National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) chief Director Nicanor Bartolome has put 10 police officers under investigation for allegedly arresting a Chinese couple and their companion and then demanding P10 million for their release – a method of extortion called “hulidap.”

Lawmaker files bill to punish discrimination vs gays, lesbians

By Jess Diaz (The Philippine Star) Updated December 24, 2010

MANILA, Philippines – Rep. Teddy Casiño of the party-list group Bayan Muna is pushing for the approval of a bill penalizing discrimination against lesbians, gays, bisexuals and transgender (LGBTs).

Court junks Lacson motion to reinvestigate murder raps

By Sandy Araneta (The Philippine Star) Updated December 24, 2010

MANILA, Philippines – A Manila judge rejected yesterday a motion of fugitive Sen. Panfilo Lacson to reinvestigate the two counts of murder charges against him for the killing of publicist Salvador Dacer and his driver, Emmanuel Corbito.

GOTCHA By Jarius Bondoc (The Philippine Star) Updated December 24, 2010

Every December 28 in the barrios of Luzon youths roam the dirt roads, stopping at every house door. Shrouded in white blankets, they chant about being the wandering souls of the Holy Innocents whom Herod slaughtered on the first Christmas.

(The Philippine Star) Updated December 24, 2010

In this democratic republic, hundreds of people won’t be home for Christmas, their whereabouts unknown.

SKETCHES By Ana Marie Pamintuan (The Philippine Star) Updated December 24, 2010

Remember the Christ in Christmas, the bishops are reminding their flock.

CTALK By Cito Beltran (The Philippine Star) Updated December 24, 2010

Thanks to my fellow columnist Jarius Bondoc and Mr. Buban of the Office of the Solicitor General, I realized a serious mistake I made while writing about the plea bargain agreement involving the case of retired Major General Carlos Garcia.

By Abac Cordero (The Philippine Star) Updated December 24, 2010

MANILA, Philippines – Just as Bob Arum announced the other day that the fight is on, the oddsmakers started punching the numbers for the May 7 fight between Manny Pacquiao and Shane Mosley.

By Abac Cordero (The Philippine Star) Updated December 24, 2010

MANILA, Philippines – There may be changes coming up in the composition of the Philippine football team that’s coming off a Cinderella run in the Asean Football Federation Suzuki Cup.

Phl feat in SI top 10 football stories

By Joey Villar (The Philippine Star) Updated December 24, 2010

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippines’ astounding upset victory over dethroned champion Vietnam in the Asean Football Federation’s Suzuki Cup generated interest not just in the Asean and Asian regions but also the rest of the world.

Sandigan defers Garcia case ruling

By Michael Punongbayan (The Philippine Star) Updated December 23, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - Former military comptroller Carlos Garcia was not sentenced yesterday after the Sandiganbayan postponed promulgation of the decision on the cases of direct bribery and facilitating money laundering he is facing.

NPA violates Yule ceasefire

By Alexis Romero (The Philippine Star) Updated December 23, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - The military reported yesterday an apparent violation of the 19-day holiday truce with communist rebels with a slay try on a member of a paramilitary group in Guihulngan, Negros Oriental.

No prosecution of hostage witnesses - China envoy

By Pia Lee-Brago (The Philippine Star) Updated December 23, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - To “clear up the picture” with the Philippine government, China said yesterday that Filipino witnesses to be called by a Hong Kong court to testify at its inquiry into the Manila bus hostage incident would not be prosecuted.

Trillanes goes to Senate for first time

By Christina Mendez (The Philippine Star) Updated December 23, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV yesterday set foot in the Senate for the first time since he was voted into office in 2007.

(The Philippine Star) Updated December 23, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - Songwriter Ogie Alcasid and songbird Regine Velasquez exchanged vows yesterday, sealing their vows with a kiss at The Peak, Terrazas de Punta Fuego, Nasugbu, Batangas.

Belmonte: P83-million budget for truth body may be realigned

By Paolo Romero (The Philippine Star) Updated December 23, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. said yesterday the P83- million budget for the Truth Commission may be realigned to other agencies so it could be put to good use.

Chinese envoy turns over 8 mobile clinics worth P90 million to Phl government

By Mayen Jaymalin (The Philippine Star) Updated December 23, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - The poor and elderly nationwide can look forward to better access to health care in the coming year with the availability of eight new mobile clinics for the use of government-run hospitals.

DOH revises regulations for disposing of dead persons

By Sheila Crisostomo (The Philippine Star) Updated December 23, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Health (DOH) yesterday revised the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) for disposing of dead persons by increasing the list of dangerous communicable diseases that could have infected them.

DENR reminds public to dispose of trash properly

By Rhodina Villanueva (The Philippine Star) Updated December 23, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) yesterday reminded the public to dispose trash properly during the holiday season, when gift-giving and partying result in a much greater amount of garbage.

Government eyes exploratory talks with MILF in January

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SAF recovers 2 Malaysian captives

(The Philippine Star) Updated December 23, 2010

MANILA, Philippines – Armed men with ties to al-Qaeda-linked militants have freed two Malaysian laborers from 10 months of jungle captivity, police said yesterday.

New STL rules out next year

By Perseus Echeminada (The Philippine Star) Updated December 23, 2010

MANILA, Philippines – The holidays have delayed the deliberations of the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) on the new guidelines and the review of the franchises of the controversial Small Town Lottery (STL).

Police admit apl.de.ap half-brother's slay still unsolved

By Ding Cervantes (The Philippine Star) Updated December 23, 2010

ANGELES CITY, Philippines – Allan Pineda, alias apl.de.ap. of the three-time Grammy Award winner Black Eyed Peas, said the local police “did a great job” in the case of his 21-year-old half-brother Joven Pineda Deala who was gunned down in February 2009.

Army accepting applications for January exam

By Jaime Laude (The Philippine Star) Updated December 23, 2010

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine Army has started accepting qualified applicants for the January recruitment of candidate soldiers.

Quezon City traffic officials move to keep Commonwealth safe

By Jerry Botial and Jess Diaz (The Philippine Star) Updated December 23, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - Following the tragic death of a Makati judge and his wife on Commonwealth Avenue on Monday, Quezon City traffic officials are now moving to keep the “killer highway” safer to both motorists and pedestrians.

8 arrested in Taguig jueteng operations

By Nestor Etolle (The Philippine Star) Updated December 23, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - Eight persons have been arrested by agents of the National Bureau of Investigation for operating the illegal numbers game jueteng in Taguig City.

'Don't blame us on Manila bread price hike'

By Danny Dangcalan (The Philippine Star) Updated December 23, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - The Confederation of Sugar Producers Association, Inc. (CONFED), the biggest sugar group in the country, defended the sugar industry against issues last week that it is to blame for the increase in bread prices in Manila.

Drive vs illegally parked vehicles on

By Mike Frialde (The Philippine Star) Updated December 23, 2010

MANILA, Philippines - The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority yesterday launched a drive to remove illegally-parked vehicles in Metro’s major roads over the holidays.

Factory output weakens to 10-month low

Business World

FACTORY OUTPUT moderated to a 10-month low in October, according to a report released by the National Statistics Office (NSO) on Thursday.

Imports rise to 5-month high

Business World

PHILIPPINE IMPORTS rose by an annual 28.4% in October, the highest since May, on the back of sustained demand for electronics for domestic production and rising global oil prices, the government reported on Thursday.

Christmas cheer up among Pinoys

Business World

BY ANA MAE G. ROA, Reporter

MORE FILIPINOS expect to have a happy Christmas this year and a majority say non-material gifts are what matter, a Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey found.

Visayas spot power market launch nears

Business World

BY MARITES S. VILLAMOR, Cebu Bureau Chief

CEBU CITY -- Final simulations are being staged by Philippine Electricity Market Corp. (PEMC) in preparation for the opening of the region’s power spot market on Sunday.

Compensation task force to miss deadline Moratorium on GOCC pay hikes, bonuses to end next week

Business World

A TASK FORCE created to review compensation at state-owned firms has asked for more time to complete its task, officials yesterday said.

Upgrade should follow continued fiscal gains -- BSP

Business World

THE PHILIPPINES should get an upgrade from Moody’s Investors Service and Fitch Ratings if the country’s fiscal performance continues to improve, a central bank official said.

Gov’t argues for Philippines’ removal from piracy watch list

Business World

BY JESSICA ANNE D. HERMOSA, Senior Reporter

THE PHILIPPINES has highlighted continued seizures of fake goods and pending reforms as it again batted to be removed from a US piracy watch list.

RP-China trade seen ending year at $30B

Business World

TRADE between the Philippines and China significantly increased in the 10 months to October, as a free trade pact between the regional giant and members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) took effect at the start of the year, the Chinese envoy to the Philippines said in a briefing yesterday.

P7-B irrigation project gets NEDA OK

Business World

THE NATIONAL Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board approved last Dec. 20 the second stage of the Malitubog-Maridagao Irrigation project for Japan official development assistance funding, an official statement yesterday read.

BSP seen hiking rates in mid-2011

Business World

THE BANGKO Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) will likely start raising its key rates in the middle of next year with inflation expected to rise, the Metropolitan Bank & Trust Co. (Metrobank) said.

Alliance Global buys into Fil-Estate Land

Business World

ALLIANCE Global Group, Inc., the listed holding firm of property tycoon Andrew L. Tan, is set to acquire 50% of Sobrepeña-led Fil-Estate Land, Inc. for P5 billion.

Miner to start airborne survey of Leyte site

Business World

PHILIPPINE Metals, Inc. has started an airborne survey over its Taurus project in Leyte to define targets for the mine, the Canadian-led miner said in a statement.

THE CADLAO production area in Palawan -- <i>www.transasia-energy.com</i>

Business World

LISTED Trans-Asia Oil and Energy Development Corp.’s decision to sell its royalty stake in Service Contract (SC) 6 or the Cadlao production area has been approved by the Department of Energy (DoE).

(The Philippine Star) Updated December 23, 2010

After every major deadly fire, the government takes stock of the country’s fire-fighting capability, and always comes up with the same conclusion: there is an acute lack of fire-fighting equipment, starting with fire trucks.

Couture dulls ordeal of Garcia's son in NY

POSTSCRIPT By Federico D. Pascual Jr. (The Philippine Star) Updated December 23, 2010

(NOTE: Here is the conclusion of the article “Fashion’s Night In” of New York society writer Peter Davis, based on his interview last year with Timothy Mark, youngest of three sons of former military comptroller Carlos F. Garcia,

Nation

Thursday, December 30, 2010

Wednesday, December 29, 2010

Monday, December 27, 2010

Friday, December 24, 2010

Thursday, December 23, 2010