Monday, May 13, 2013
Tuesday, April 30, 2013
NCCP Endorses Senatorial Bid of Bro. Eddie
The National Council of Churches in the Philippines (NCCP), the biggest ecumenical fellowship of Protestant and non-Catholic churches and service organizations, endorsed the senatorial bid of Bro. Eddie Villanueva yesterday in a gathering at the Legend Villas in Mandaluyong City. Led by its general secretary, Rev. Rex RB Reyes Jr., the NCCP said it will enjoin its member-churches and organizations nationwide to support Villanueva, the lone senatorial candidate of Bangon Pilipinas. NCCP has a membership of about 12 million all over the country. In the photo (L-R) are Bishop Leo Alconga and Bishop Dan Balais of the Philippines for Jesus Movement; Justice Raoul Victorino of UNIDA EKYUMENIKAL (formerly of Sandiganbayan); Bro. Eddie Villanueva; former Securities and Exchange Commission Chairman Jun Yasay; Nora Lucero, general secretary of the Phil. Bible Society. Behind: Congressman Joe Tan Ramirez (Chairman of the Presidential Prayer Breakfast Foundation); Bishop Reuel O. Marigza, general secretary of UCCP; Atty. Felix Carao of Philippine Christian University; Rev. Ferdinand Mercado of IEMELIF); Rev. Romy Razon and Rev. Kenneth Aguillera, both of UNIDA.
Give workers chance to grow as entrepreneurs - Bro. Eddie
The minimum wage must rise to a level that can be considered a decent “living wage.” Otherwise, the government must open up more opportunities for the working class to grow as entrepreneurs.
This was the call of Bangon Pilipinas senatorial candidate Bro. Eddie Villanueva on the eve of this year’s Labor Day.
Villanueva said the government must break the chain of granting only non-wage benefits on Labor Day and work to increase the minimum wage.
“The minimum wage in Metro Manila for example at P456 can no longer sustain the cost of living. This is can no longer feed a family of five. If you add other expenses like entertainment and medical bills, the minimum wage is woefully lacking,” Villanueva said.
In 2008, it was estimated that the daily cost of living was already around P900.
As proof, Villanueva noted that the poverty rate has remained virtually unchanged despite glowing economic reviews by foreign firms, a credit ratings upgrade and record highs by the local stock market.
“Nobody should be left behind in the country’s economic growth. What we need is inclusive growth that includes growth from those in the fringes,” Villanueva, an economist-turned-evangelist, said.
He added that the platform of Bangon Pilipinas is to develop “ekonomiya ng sagigilid” or economics for the fringes with focus on growth in the agricultural and manufacturing sectors through industrial development.
Villanueva said growth in these sectors can form the foundation of a real and solid economic growth, rather than dependence on just a few factors like remittances from overseas Filipino workers and the business process outsourcing industry.
“There is still hope for a more equitable growth if we focus our agenda to giving more opportunities for those in the margins to better their lives. For example, grant them loans without collaterals so they can set up small businesses. This will be our legislative agenda in the Senate,” Villanueva said.
He added: “In the Senate, we will work for a government that provides opportunities for all, including the minimum wage earners. We will work for laws that will redistribute power and resources so everybody, including those living in the margins, will truly benefit from the country’s newfound economic strength. We will make sure the sagigilid will be part of the country’s economic growth.”
This was the call of Bangon Pilipinas senatorial candidate Bro. Eddie Villanueva on the eve of this year’s Labor Day.
Villanueva said the government must break the chain of granting only non-wage benefits on Labor Day and work to increase the minimum wage.
“The minimum wage in Metro Manila for example at P456 can no longer sustain the cost of living. This is can no longer feed a family of five. If you add other expenses like entertainment and medical bills, the minimum wage is woefully lacking,” Villanueva said.
In 2008, it was estimated that the daily cost of living was already around P900.
As proof, Villanueva noted that the poverty rate has remained virtually unchanged despite glowing economic reviews by foreign firms, a credit ratings upgrade and record highs by the local stock market.
“Nobody should be left behind in the country’s economic growth. What we need is inclusive growth that includes growth from those in the fringes,” Villanueva, an economist-turned-evangelist, said.
He added that the platform of Bangon Pilipinas is to develop “ekonomiya ng sagigilid” or economics for the fringes with focus on growth in the agricultural and manufacturing sectors through industrial development.
Villanueva said growth in these sectors can form the foundation of a real and solid economic growth, rather than dependence on just a few factors like remittances from overseas Filipino workers and the business process outsourcing industry.
“There is still hope for a more equitable growth if we focus our agenda to giving more opportunities for those in the margins to better their lives. For example, grant them loans without collaterals so they can set up small businesses. This will be our legislative agenda in the Senate,” Villanueva said.
He added: “In the Senate, we will work for a government that provides opportunities for all, including the minimum wage earners. We will work for laws that will redistribute power and resources so everybody, including those living in the margins, will truly benefit from the country’s newfound economic strength. We will make sure the sagigilid will be part of the country’s economic growth.”
Friday, April 26, 2013
Philippines can rise higher and faster with inclusive growth from the margins
After a credit-rating agency hailed the Philippines as a “rising star” in the global economic spectrum, Bangon Pilipinas senatorial candidate Bro. Eddie Villanueva said the country can rise higher and faster if the government were to make inclusive growth from the margins a priority.
“The country can grow so much faster and higher if the economy grows not just at the top, but from and within the bottom and the margins. Equitable growth will result in a more productive citizenry and a strong and resilient economy. This is the commitment of our platform and this will be our legislative agenda in the Senate,” Villanueva, an economist, said.
He also noted that domestic consumption and remittances from overseas contract workers can only go so far in propping up the economy.
“The thinking should be long-term. We need industrial development and create an industrial backbone based on agriculture and manufacturing. We need to translate economic growth to genuine human development,” said Villanueva.
The Bangon Pilipinas candidate, who is presenting himself as an alternative candidate to political dynasties, said his legislative agenda will also include protection of overseas Filipino workers from exploitation; an education system that not only produces skilled laborers and technicians but engineers, scientists and knowledge workers that will help in the country’s industrial development; and to the poor and marginalized to bank loans for entreprenuership.
In a recent report, Moody’s Analytics said the country can grow between 6.5 to 7 percent in the next two years and 8 percent by 2016, outperforming advanced economies ravaged by the current global economic slump and growing emerging markets.
“The country can grow so much faster and higher if the economy grows not just at the top, but from and within the bottom and the margins. Equitable growth will result in a more productive citizenry and a strong and resilient economy. This is the commitment of our platform and this will be our legislative agenda in the Senate,” Villanueva, an economist, said.
He also noted that domestic consumption and remittances from overseas contract workers can only go so far in propping up the economy.
“The thinking should be long-term. We need industrial development and create an industrial backbone based on agriculture and manufacturing. We need to translate economic growth to genuine human development,” said Villanueva.
The Bangon Pilipinas candidate, who is presenting himself as an alternative candidate to political dynasties, said his legislative agenda will also include protection of overseas Filipino workers from exploitation; an education system that not only produces skilled laborers and technicians but engineers, scientists and knowledge workers that will help in the country’s industrial development; and to the poor and marginalized to bank loans for entreprenuership.
In a recent report, Moody’s Analytics said the country can grow between 6.5 to 7 percent in the next two years and 8 percent by 2016, outperforming advanced economies ravaged by the current global economic slump and growing emerging markets.
Thursday, April 25, 2013
Bro. Eddie Meets With Navotas Fisherfolk
Bangon Pilipinas senatorial candidate Bro. Eddie Villanueva held a dialogue with fisherfolk in Navotas Thursday in a bid to push his platform of “economy in the margins.”
Villanueva visited Market 3 of the Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PFDA) Compound in Navotas at 8:00 am where he talked with leaders of the fishing community headed by Rolly Serna, president of Market 3 PFDA informal settlers.
“I am doing this to personally get the pulse of our sagigilid or the marginalized sectors of our society. We will talk directly to the people and find out their dreams, hopes and aspirations. We want to hear straight from them what it is they want from their government and their leaders so we can be better servant-leaders to them,” he said.
Villanueva said he also explained his platform of developing an “economy in the margins” to offset the imbalance of economic growth in the country. Recently, media reports said the poverty rate in the country has remained unchanged.
“We have seen the country get a credit ratings upgrade and the local stock market hitting new highs. But development has not trickled down to the common folk, especially to the poor and the marginalized,” he said.
Villanueva, an economist, also explained that our economy should be “aggressive and inclusive” if the common folk like the Navotas fisherfolk are to benefit.
“What I will push in the Senate is inclusive growth and an economics for the fringes – or ekonomiya ng sagigilid. We need to focus our economic legislative agenda on industrial development by creating an industrial backbone based on agricultural modernization and manufacturing,” he said.
The Navotas fishport is the hub of fish trading in Metro Manila where enterprising fish sellers procure the fish they would sell in public markets all around Metro Manila.
Villanueva visited Market 3 of the Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (PFDA) Compound in Navotas at 8:00 am where he talked with leaders of the fishing community headed by Rolly Serna, president of Market 3 PFDA informal settlers.
“I am doing this to personally get the pulse of our sagigilid or the marginalized sectors of our society. We will talk directly to the people and find out their dreams, hopes and aspirations. We want to hear straight from them what it is they want from their government and their leaders so we can be better servant-leaders to them,” he said.
Villanueva said he also explained his platform of developing an “economy in the margins” to offset the imbalance of economic growth in the country. Recently, media reports said the poverty rate in the country has remained unchanged.
“We have seen the country get a credit ratings upgrade and the local stock market hitting new highs. But development has not trickled down to the common folk, especially to the poor and the marginalized,” he said.
Villanueva, an economist, also explained that our economy should be “aggressive and inclusive” if the common folk like the Navotas fisherfolk are to benefit.
“What I will push in the Senate is inclusive growth and an economics for the fringes – or ekonomiya ng sagigilid. We need to focus our economic legislative agenda on industrial development by creating an industrial backbone based on agricultural modernization and manufacturing,” he said.
The Navotas fishport is the hub of fish trading in Metro Manila where enterprising fish sellers procure the fish they would sell in public markets all around Metro Manila.
Wednesday, April 24, 2013
Bro. Eddie on Unchanged Poverty Rate: That's why we need growth from the margins
Despite an upgrade of the country’s credit rating and record highs by the stock market, the country’s poverty rate remains unchanged because there is no inclusive growth from the margins.
This was the assessment of Bangon Pilipinas senatorial candidate Bro. Eddie Villanueva on the recent report of the National Statistical Coordination Board (NSCB) that said poverty incidence was a 27.9 percent in the first semester of 2012, which was “practically unchanged” from the same period in 2009 (28.6 percent) and 2006 (28.8 percent).
“This is the best proof that development is not reaching the grassroots. The rich just keep getting richer. For this country to move forward, the poor and the marginalized must be given a chance to better their lives. In the Senate, this will be our legislative agenda,” Bro. Eddie, an economist, said.
He explained that Bangon Pilipinas program of the development of an “economics in the margins” or “ekonomiya ng sangigilid” can solve the current imbalance of development in the country.
“The platform of Bangon Pilipinas was drafted exactly to address this long-standing problem of imbalance in development. We will push for a government that provides opportunities for all. We will champion policies that will redistribute power and resources so those living in the margins will reap the benefits of the country’s development.”
Bro. Eddie also said the country’s economy has become highly dependent on remittances from its overseas contract workers and domestic consumption.
“We need development in the industrial and manufacturing sector so more people, especially the poor and the marginalized, can get jobs. Nobody should be left behind,” he said.
Bro. Eddie, who was also a professor, also said he would push for an education system that is relevant and responsive to the needs of the country’s workforce.
“We need an education system that will not only produce a large pool of skilled laborers and technicians but engineers, scientists and knowledge workers who can help in the country’s industrial development.”
This was the assessment of Bangon Pilipinas senatorial candidate Bro. Eddie Villanueva on the recent report of the National Statistical Coordination Board (NSCB) that said poverty incidence was a 27.9 percent in the first semester of 2012, which was “practically unchanged” from the same period in 2009 (28.6 percent) and 2006 (28.8 percent).
“This is the best proof that development is not reaching the grassroots. The rich just keep getting richer. For this country to move forward, the poor and the marginalized must be given a chance to better their lives. In the Senate, this will be our legislative agenda,” Bro. Eddie, an economist, said.
He explained that Bangon Pilipinas program of the development of an “economics in the margins” or “ekonomiya ng sangigilid” can solve the current imbalance of development in the country.
“The platform of Bangon Pilipinas was drafted exactly to address this long-standing problem of imbalance in development. We will push for a government that provides opportunities for all. We will champion policies that will redistribute power and resources so those living in the margins will reap the benefits of the country’s development.”
Bro. Eddie also said the country’s economy has become highly dependent on remittances from its overseas contract workers and domestic consumption.
“We need development in the industrial and manufacturing sector so more people, especially the poor and the marginalized, can get jobs. Nobody should be left behind,” he said.
Bro. Eddie, who was also a professor, also said he would push for an education system that is relevant and responsive to the needs of the country’s workforce.
“We need an education system that will not only produce a large pool of skilled laborers and technicians but engineers, scientists and knowledge workers who can help in the country’s industrial development.”
Tuesday, April 23, 2013
Bro. Eddie to PNOY Admin: How safe are candidates?
Bangon Pilipinas senatorial candidate Bro. Eddie Villanueva called on the Aquino administration to step up operations against known threat groups to ensure the safety of candidates running in the May elections.
Villanueva made the call after his visit to Gingoog, Misamis Oriental Mayor Ruthie De Lara Guingona who was ambushed recently by armed men said to be members of the New People’s Army (NPA).
“With the ambush on Mayor Guingona, we must question the safety of candidates campaigning in conflict areas, particularly in areas ‘controlled’ by communist rebels,” Villanueva said. Earlier, he condemned the attack and called on the government to bring the perpetrators to justice.
The NPA already apologized for the attack but said it was the mayor's guards who fired first.
Villanueva also noted the recent order of President Aquino to police and military units to dismantle checkpoints of communist rebels and to protect campaigning politicians. But Villanueva said it remains to be seen if the President’s orders are carried out.
“The President must ensure his orders are carried out to the letter. He must show that these are just not mere words and he must exact accountability from police and military units who fail to carry out his orders,” Villanueva said.
The Bangon Pilipinas candidate, who is running on a platform of inclusive economic growth in the margins, also said true economic growth can be stunted by the existence of armed violence.
“Armed violence is not good for economic growth. The President’s recent order seems short-term to me. What we must work for is a long-term solution to armed violence so the economy can flourish. Residents in conflict areas can feel safe to work and better their lives,” Villanueva explained.
He also noted that internal security should be a concern for the administration with the recent bombing at the Boston marathon and the foiling of a possible terror attack in Canada.
“Globally, governments face threats to their internal security. The government must show it is taking these threats seriously,” he said.
Villanueva made the call after his visit to Gingoog, Misamis Oriental Mayor Ruthie De Lara Guingona who was ambushed recently by armed men said to be members of the New People’s Army (NPA).
“With the ambush on Mayor Guingona, we must question the safety of candidates campaigning in conflict areas, particularly in areas ‘controlled’ by communist rebels,” Villanueva said. Earlier, he condemned the attack and called on the government to bring the perpetrators to justice.
The NPA already apologized for the attack but said it was the mayor's guards who fired first.
Villanueva also noted the recent order of President Aquino to police and military units to dismantle checkpoints of communist rebels and to protect campaigning politicians. But Villanueva said it remains to be seen if the President’s orders are carried out.
“The President must ensure his orders are carried out to the letter. He must show that these are just not mere words and he must exact accountability from police and military units who fail to carry out his orders,” Villanueva said.
The Bangon Pilipinas candidate, who is running on a platform of inclusive economic growth in the margins, also said true economic growth can be stunted by the existence of armed violence.
“Armed violence is not good for economic growth. The President’s recent order seems short-term to me. What we must work for is a long-term solution to armed violence so the economy can flourish. Residents in conflict areas can feel safe to work and better their lives,” Villanueva explained.
He also noted that internal security should be a concern for the administration with the recent bombing at the Boston marathon and the foiling of a possible terror attack in Canada.
“Globally, governments face threats to their internal security. The government must show it is taking these threats seriously,” he said.
Monday, April 22, 2013
Peace Process Must Be Accompanied With Economic Development
Cagayan de Oro City -- Bangon Pilipinas senatorial candidate Bro. Eddie Villanueva kicks off today a three-day campaign here in key cities in Mindanao, pushing his program of bringing inclusive economic growth to the region.
Villanueva, who had earlier supported the signing of the Framework Agreement between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) last October, said stimulating economic development in the region will be crucial in the success of the peace process.
He said Bangon Pilipinas’ program includes stimulating inclusive growth and the development of an economics for the fringes – or “ekonomiya ng sagigilid.”
“The peace process must be accompanied with true economic development from the center all the way to the margins. I will stress to our Mindanao allies our commitment to legislation that will encourage entrepreneurship and development,” he said.
He said that the executive branch together with the MILF are working to deliver a truly responsive peace pact that could finally end decades of fighting in the region.
“We commend their efforts. We are also committed to do our own part no matter how little by sustaining the momentum until we eventually attain economic development for all. This is a job for all of us, including citizens, leaders and legislators.”
Villanueva will meet with key local and business officials here today. He will also hold give media interviews and hold a campaign rally in Limketkai.
After Cagayan de Oro, Villanueva will travel to Bukidnon on Tuesday to meet with representatives of various sectors and members of the CIBAC partylist. Bro. Eddie’s last stop will be Tubod, Lanao del Norte to visit local leaders and representatives of sectoral groups.
Villanueva, who had earlier supported the signing of the Framework Agreement between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) last October, said stimulating economic development in the region will be crucial in the success of the peace process.
He said Bangon Pilipinas’ program includes stimulating inclusive growth and the development of an economics for the fringes – or “ekonomiya ng sagigilid.”
“The peace process must be accompanied with true economic development from the center all the way to the margins. I will stress to our Mindanao allies our commitment to legislation that will encourage entrepreneurship and development,” he said.
He said that the executive branch together with the MILF are working to deliver a truly responsive peace pact that could finally end decades of fighting in the region.
“We commend their efforts. We are also committed to do our own part no matter how little by sustaining the momentum until we eventually attain economic development for all. This is a job for all of us, including citizens, leaders and legislators.”
Villanueva will meet with key local and business officials here today. He will also hold give media interviews and hold a campaign rally in Limketkai.
After Cagayan de Oro, Villanueva will travel to Bukidnon on Tuesday to meet with representatives of various sectors and members of the CIBAC partylist. Bro. Eddie’s last stop will be Tubod, Lanao del Norte to visit local leaders and representatives of sectoral groups.
Bro. Eddie Condemns Ambush Of Gingoog Mayor Ruthie Guingona
Bangon Pilipinas senatorial candidate Bro. Eddie Villanueva visited Gingoog, Misamis Oriental Mayor Ruthie De Lara Guingona who survived a recent ambush reportedly by members of the New People's Army that left two of the mayor's aides dead and two others injured.
Villanueva, who is campaigning in Mindanao, also prayed for the quick recovery of the 78-year old Guingona, who suffered bullet wounds in her hands and feet. Guingona is the wife of former vice president Teofisto Guingona and mother of Sen. Teofisto "TG" Guingona III. Her doctors had already pronounced her out of danger.
"This attack is a brutal and heartless assault on a elderly and innocent woman who is already winding up her years in public service. Those who were responsible for the attack must be brought before courts to pay for their deed," Bro. Eddie said.
He added that he and the Bangon Pilipinas community will continue to pray for the safety of Guingona, a member of President Aquino's Liberal Party (LP).
According to reports, Guingona had just attended the fiesta of the in a remote area of Alatagan village with her six-member convoy when they were "ambushed" by the rebels. The rebels fled after a 10-minute fire fight with police.
Mayor Guingona is not running for any office in the coming May elections. Her daughter Marie is running for Gingoog Mayor.
The NPA admitted they staged the attack and apologized to Guingona and her family.
Villanueva, who is campaigning in Mindanao, also prayed for the quick recovery of the 78-year old Guingona, who suffered bullet wounds in her hands and feet. Guingona is the wife of former vice president Teofisto Guingona and mother of Sen. Teofisto "TG" Guingona III. Her doctors had already pronounced her out of danger.
"This attack is a brutal and heartless assault on a elderly and innocent woman who is already winding up her years in public service. Those who were responsible for the attack must be brought before courts to pay for their deed," Bro. Eddie said.
He added that he and the Bangon Pilipinas community will continue to pray for the safety of Guingona, a member of President Aquino's Liberal Party (LP).
According to reports, Guingona had just attended the fiesta of the in a remote area of Alatagan village with her six-member convoy when they were "ambushed" by the rebels. The rebels fled after a 10-minute fire fight with police.
Mayor Guingona is not running for any office in the coming May elections. Her daughter Marie is running for Gingoog Mayor.
The NPA admitted they staged the attack and apologized to Guingona and her family.
Sunday, April 21, 2013
No One Gets Left Behind In Economic Growth
Bangon Pilipinas senatorial candidate Bro. Eddie Villanueva signed a covenant on Sunday with urban poor groups vowing to champion their cause by giving them a larger role in the country’s economic development.
In simple ceremonies in Smokey Mountain in Manila, Villanueva, who is presenting himself as an alternative candidate, pledged his support for the urban poor sector as he signs a Covenant of Unity with urban poor leaders. He emphasized that once he gets elected as senator, he will sponsor legislation to make them the backbone for an inclusive economic growth in the country.
“With the recent strengthening of the economy, no one should be left behind,” Villanueva declared. “Bangon Pilipinas is committed to an inclusive growth that strengthens the economics for the fringes – or ekonomiya ng sagigilid. We will concentrate our legislative agenda on industrial development based on agricultural modernization and manufacturing.”
Villanueva said he would also support local entrepreneurship led by the masses. In particular, he said he would take his queue from the Thailand micro-entrepreneurship model with the creation of “people’s banks” where micro-entrepreneurs can take out loans without collateral as start-up capital.
“This model will open up opportunities for the poor and marginalized. We will make this part of our priority legislation,” Villanueva said.
He also said education will be a cornerstone to economic growth in the fringes. “Education should be free for the poorest of the poor from pre-school to college. The government must provide its citizens with opportunities for advancement. Our focus will not only be to produce skilled laborers and technicians but engineers, scientists and knowledge workers who will fuel industrial development as well.”
The covenant will be signed between Villanueva and 106 urban poor leaders. Part of the covenant reads: “Kami, mga lider ng sector ng maralitang taga-lungsod sa buong Metro Manila at Bro. Eddie Villanueva ng Bangon Pilipinas, ay nagpapahayag at lumalagda sa isang ‘Kasunduan ng Pagkakaisa at Pagtutulungan’ upang isulong at ipagtanggol ang interes mga karapatan, kapakanan at kagalingan ng buong sector ng ‘maralitang taga-lungsod.’”
The covenant will bind Bangon Pilipinas to support a number of important issues related to the urban poor that includes: relocation away from danger zones, no demolition without proper relocation, building communities with basic services like health and education provided by the government, livelihood programs, additional budget for shelter financing and active participation in governance.
Villanueva thanked the groups for their support in his leadership. “I am very humbled by the faith they have placed in me. As true servant-leaders, we must strive to work for the betterment of those who have less in my life.”
In simple ceremonies in Smokey Mountain in Manila, Villanueva, who is presenting himself as an alternative candidate, pledged his support for the urban poor sector as he signs a Covenant of Unity with urban poor leaders. He emphasized that once he gets elected as senator, he will sponsor legislation to make them the backbone for an inclusive economic growth in the country.
“With the recent strengthening of the economy, no one should be left behind,” Villanueva declared. “Bangon Pilipinas is committed to an inclusive growth that strengthens the economics for the fringes – or ekonomiya ng sagigilid. We will concentrate our legislative agenda on industrial development based on agricultural modernization and manufacturing.”
Villanueva said he would also support local entrepreneurship led by the masses. In particular, he said he would take his queue from the Thailand micro-entrepreneurship model with the creation of “people’s banks” where micro-entrepreneurs can take out loans without collateral as start-up capital.
“This model will open up opportunities for the poor and marginalized. We will make this part of our priority legislation,” Villanueva said.
He also said education will be a cornerstone to economic growth in the fringes. “Education should be free for the poorest of the poor from pre-school to college. The government must provide its citizens with opportunities for advancement. Our focus will not only be to produce skilled laborers and technicians but engineers, scientists and knowledge workers who will fuel industrial development as well.”
The covenant will be signed between Villanueva and 106 urban poor leaders. Part of the covenant reads: “Kami, mga lider ng sector ng maralitang taga-lungsod sa buong Metro Manila at Bro. Eddie Villanueva ng Bangon Pilipinas, ay nagpapahayag at lumalagda sa isang ‘Kasunduan ng Pagkakaisa at Pagtutulungan’ upang isulong at ipagtanggol ang interes mga karapatan, kapakanan at kagalingan ng buong sector ng ‘maralitang taga-lungsod.’”
The covenant will bind Bangon Pilipinas to support a number of important issues related to the urban poor that includes: relocation away from danger zones, no demolition without proper relocation, building communities with basic services like health and education provided by the government, livelihood programs, additional budget for shelter financing and active participation in governance.
Villanueva thanked the groups for their support in his leadership. “I am very humbled by the faith they have placed in me. As true servant-leaders, we must strive to work for the betterment of those who have less in my life.”
Wednesday, April 10, 2013
Bro. Eddie Tell Gov't.: Shoulder Cost Of Gensets To Fend Off Mindanao Power Crisis
Bangon Pilipinas lone senatorial candidate Eddie Villanueva on Wednesday urged the government to shoulder the cost of procurement of diesel generation sets that can be used as a short-term solution to the Mindanao power crisis.
Villanueva said this is a more plausible alternative to the Department of Energy’s (DOE) earlier plan to offer modular 0.5- to 1-megawatt (MW)-capacity diesel generation sets through a US$200-million loan facility which be made available to electric cooperatives in Mindanao.
According to Villanueva, placing the burden of procuring the generator sets on the shoulders of electric cooperatives will make this solution less acceptable for the electric cooperatives that will be forced to pass on this added cost to their respective consumers.
He said higher electricity bills resulting from this additional pass-on cost will have the biggest impact on the poorest households in Mindanao.
“The government should own up to its failure to develop Mindanao’s power generating capacity that has now resulted to rolling brownouts in some parts of the region. As such, it should shoulder the cost of implementing stop-gap measures to meet the region’s power requirements while the construction of base load power plants is ongoing,” Villanueva said.
“At this point when we are already experiencing power shortages in the region, the government should not waste time trying to entice electric cooperatives to take on its loan offer, and instead take on the more actionable route of going ahead with the procurement of generator sets and deploying them to electric cooperatives.”
Based on the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines’ power situation outlook for April 9, the Mindanao grid is expected to post a 112-MW power supply shortfall when it hits its daily peak load of 1,114 MW.
Not a long-term solution
Villanueva noted that the deployment of diesel-fired generator sets should only be viewed as an immediate-term measure to shore up power supply in the region, adding that the government should aggressively develop Mindanao’s generating capacity as a long-term solution to Mindanao’s power woes.
He said the government should provide incentives for the development of new power facilities in Mindanao.“The government cannot escape the fact that it needs to build additional generation capacity in Mindanao to meet not only the present power requirements but to satisfy future growth in the region’s power demand,” Villanueva said.
Villanueva also said the government should diversify energy sources and consider renewable energy sources, such as solar power facilities, run-of-the-river and biomass power plants to lessen the grid’s dependence on hydro power which produces less power during prolonged dry season including summer months.
“The government should look into developing more indigenous, renewable power sources in the region not only to meet its growing electricity requirements but also to diversify our energy sources in the region,” he said.
Villanueva said this is a more plausible alternative to the Department of Energy’s (DOE) earlier plan to offer modular 0.5- to 1-megawatt (MW)-capacity diesel generation sets through a US$200-million loan facility which be made available to electric cooperatives in Mindanao.
According to Villanueva, placing the burden of procuring the generator sets on the shoulders of electric cooperatives will make this solution less acceptable for the electric cooperatives that will be forced to pass on this added cost to their respective consumers.
He said higher electricity bills resulting from this additional pass-on cost will have the biggest impact on the poorest households in Mindanao.
“The government should own up to its failure to develop Mindanao’s power generating capacity that has now resulted to rolling brownouts in some parts of the region. As such, it should shoulder the cost of implementing stop-gap measures to meet the region’s power requirements while the construction of base load power plants is ongoing,” Villanueva said.
“At this point when we are already experiencing power shortages in the region, the government should not waste time trying to entice electric cooperatives to take on its loan offer, and instead take on the more actionable route of going ahead with the procurement of generator sets and deploying them to electric cooperatives.”
Based on the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines’ power situation outlook for April 9, the Mindanao grid is expected to post a 112-MW power supply shortfall when it hits its daily peak load of 1,114 MW.
Not a long-term solution
Villanueva noted that the deployment of diesel-fired generator sets should only be viewed as an immediate-term measure to shore up power supply in the region, adding that the government should aggressively develop Mindanao’s generating capacity as a long-term solution to Mindanao’s power woes.
He said the government should provide incentives for the development of new power facilities in Mindanao.“The government cannot escape the fact that it needs to build additional generation capacity in Mindanao to meet not only the present power requirements but to satisfy future growth in the region’s power demand,” Villanueva said.
Villanueva also said the government should diversify energy sources and consider renewable energy sources, such as solar power facilities, run-of-the-river and biomass power plants to lessen the grid’s dependence on hydro power which produces less power during prolonged dry season including summer months.
“The government should look into developing more indigenous, renewable power sources in the region not only to meet its growing electricity requirements but also to diversify our energy sources in the region,” he said.
Monday, April 8, 2013
Bulk Of National Budget Should Go To Poorest Provinces - Bro. Eddie
Bangon Pilipinas lone senatorial candidate Eddie Villanueva on Monday told the government to radically rethink the manner by which it allocates the national budget, saying the poorest provinces should get the bulk of the funds annually appropriated by Congress.
Villanueva said the government should formulate a new policy on the appropriation of public funds, using a poverty index as guide in budget allocation. Under this arrangement, the poorest provinces in the country will receive more from the national budget.
According to the latest available poverty data from the National Statistical Coordination Board, in 2009, 26.5% of Filipinos are poor, living below the poverty threshold. Almost half of the 1,643 cities and municipalities have poverty incidences ranging from 32.1% to 60%, while 67 municipalities have higher than 60% poverty incidence. Seventeen of the 20 poorest municipalities in the Philippines are found in Mindanao.
Villanueva said the proposed budget allocation scheme will allow the “sagigilid” or the poorest, most marginalized sectors in society to have the opportunity to be at par with those who have more in life.“As it stands now, it does not seem to be making any significant impact in alleviating the lives of Filipinos many of whom, unfortunately, continue to belong to the poor and disadvantaged sectors,” Villanueva said.
“The government should rethink the way it is allocating the national budget – giving more to the poorest provinces in the country so that they can have the wherewithal to be at par with the urban centers.”
Villanueva noted that the government has largely failed to effectively allocate the national budget to improve the plight of poor Filipinos who comprise majority of the population, citing the United Nations’ assessment of the Philippines as Asia’s worst performer in reaching the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).
Villanueva noted that the country’s sagigilid – including the poor and the marginalized sectors who cannot afford to pay for their children’s tuition and even basic medical consultations – are the most adversely affected by the government’s failure to deliver social services to the grassroots level.
Poverty index as guide
According to Villanueva, allocating the national budget using the poverty index as a guide will allow the government to be more responsive to the people’s needs and achieve significant progress in addressing poverty-related issues.
He further proposed for the government to channel more resources to local government units to allow them to adequately perform their duties under a decentralized arrangement – including the provision of basic social services.
“When Congress passed the Local Government Code in 1991, we were counting on its promise to improve the delivery of basic social services by devolving these responsibilities to the local government,” Villanueva said.
“Unfortunately – more than two decades since the enactment of the law – the government has consistently failed to provide the LGUs with the resources needed to effectively perform their mandate.”
Villanueva said the government should formulate a new policy on the appropriation of public funds, using a poverty index as guide in budget allocation. Under this arrangement, the poorest provinces in the country will receive more from the national budget.
According to the latest available poverty data from the National Statistical Coordination Board, in 2009, 26.5% of Filipinos are poor, living below the poverty threshold. Almost half of the 1,643 cities and municipalities have poverty incidences ranging from 32.1% to 60%, while 67 municipalities have higher than 60% poverty incidence. Seventeen of the 20 poorest municipalities in the Philippines are found in Mindanao.
Villanueva said the proposed budget allocation scheme will allow the “sagigilid” or the poorest, most marginalized sectors in society to have the opportunity to be at par with those who have more in life.“As it stands now, it does not seem to be making any significant impact in alleviating the lives of Filipinos many of whom, unfortunately, continue to belong to the poor and disadvantaged sectors,” Villanueva said.
“The government should rethink the way it is allocating the national budget – giving more to the poorest provinces in the country so that they can have the wherewithal to be at par with the urban centers.”
Villanueva noted that the government has largely failed to effectively allocate the national budget to improve the plight of poor Filipinos who comprise majority of the population, citing the United Nations’ assessment of the Philippines as Asia’s worst performer in reaching the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).
Villanueva noted that the country’s sagigilid – including the poor and the marginalized sectors who cannot afford to pay for their children’s tuition and even basic medical consultations – are the most adversely affected by the government’s failure to deliver social services to the grassroots level.
Poverty index as guide
According to Villanueva, allocating the national budget using the poverty index as a guide will allow the government to be more responsive to the people’s needs and achieve significant progress in addressing poverty-related issues.
He further proposed for the government to channel more resources to local government units to allow them to adequately perform their duties under a decentralized arrangement – including the provision of basic social services.
“When Congress passed the Local Government Code in 1991, we were counting on its promise to improve the delivery of basic social services by devolving these responsibilities to the local government,” Villanueva said.
“Unfortunately – more than two decades since the enactment of the law – the government has consistently failed to provide the LGUs with the resources needed to effectively perform their mandate.”
Friday, April 5, 2013
Being Senator Is Just A Job - Bro. Eddie
Bangon Pilipinas lone senatorial candidate Eddie Villanueva on Friday said elected officials should treat their position like any other job, which demands performance and responsibility – not entitlements.
“Congressmen and senators should be mindful that they are working for the people, and the people are the ones paying for their salaries. We should keep in mind that a Senate post is just another job,” Villanueva said.
He noted that being a congressman or a senator is a job and not a position of entitlement where one receives gifts and other benefits that a normal Filipino worker does not receive.
Villanueva said congressmen and senators’ salary computation should be no different from regular employees and that tighter rules should be adopted for the allocation and disbursement of their office budget.
“Senators and congressmen should do no better than their employers – the Filipino people, and should receive the same treatment in compensation and benefits as their employers,” he added.
The candidate said congressmen and senators – like other government employees – are expected to adhere to common workplace rules on attendance and punctuality, pointing out that congressmen and senators only work a fraction of the regular employee’s work days a year.
“By my count, there are only about 50 session days in one Congressional session, versus a normal Juan Dela Cruz who works for more than 300 days a year,” Villanueva said.
No lump sum appropriations
Aside from instituting a no work/no pay policy and the adoption of the bundy clock or biometrics system to improve attendance, Villanueva also said both Houses of Congress should likewise revert to the old appropriation policy which reduces opportunities for corruption.
“In earlier Congresses, no lump sum appropriations are given for each Congressional office, and everything is liquidated to account for how the people's money is spent,” Villanueva said.
Reject any gifts
Upping the ante on suggestions to improve Congress’ accountability and probity, Villanueva also vowed to reject any offers of gifts both “in cash or in kind” if elected to office, and challenged fellow senatorial bets to publicly declare the same commitment.
Villanueva said rewards – financial or otherwise – should not be the main driver behind candidates’ decision to run for public office, adding that congressmen and senators should be the reminded of their role as servants of the people who are expected to perform their duties well.
“Congressmen and senators should be mindful that they are working for the people, and the people are the ones paying for their salaries. We should keep in mind that a Senate post is just another job,” Villanueva said.
He noted that being a congressman or a senator is a job and not a position of entitlement where one receives gifts and other benefits that a normal Filipino worker does not receive.
Villanueva said congressmen and senators’ salary computation should be no different from regular employees and that tighter rules should be adopted for the allocation and disbursement of their office budget.
“Senators and congressmen should do no better than their employers – the Filipino people, and should receive the same treatment in compensation and benefits as their employers,” he added.
The candidate said congressmen and senators – like other government employees – are expected to adhere to common workplace rules on attendance and punctuality, pointing out that congressmen and senators only work a fraction of the regular employee’s work days a year.
“By my count, there are only about 50 session days in one Congressional session, versus a normal Juan Dela Cruz who works for more than 300 days a year,” Villanueva said.
No lump sum appropriations
Aside from instituting a no work/no pay policy and the adoption of the bundy clock or biometrics system to improve attendance, Villanueva also said both Houses of Congress should likewise revert to the old appropriation policy which reduces opportunities for corruption.
“In earlier Congresses, no lump sum appropriations are given for each Congressional office, and everything is liquidated to account for how the people's money is spent,” Villanueva said.
Reject any gifts
Upping the ante on suggestions to improve Congress’ accountability and probity, Villanueva also vowed to reject any offers of gifts both “in cash or in kind” if elected to office, and challenged fellow senatorial bets to publicly declare the same commitment.
Villanueva said rewards – financial or otherwise – should not be the main driver behind candidates’ decision to run for public office, adding that congressmen and senators should be the reminded of their role as servants of the people who are expected to perform their duties well.
Monday, April 1, 2013
Bro. Eddie To Gov't.: What's The Delay In Forming HR Claims Board?
Bangon Pilipinas lone senatorial candidate Eddie Villanueva on Monday questioned the government’s sincerity in compensating Martial Law human rights victims, pointing out delays in the implementation of the landmark Human Rights Victims Reparation and Recognition Act.
Villanueva said the elation of Martial Law human rights victims and their families over the passage of the Human Rights Victims Reparation and Recognition Act is now fast dwindling, seeing no progress in the implementation of the landmark law.
He noted that the administration has yet to make the first step in implementing the law which is the creation of the Human Rights Victims’ Claims Board. The Board is responsible for drafting the law’s implementing rules and regulations (IRR) as well as evaluating and processing the applications for the compensations due to the victims.
“I don’t understand what is taking the government so long just to form the Claims Board. We have so many people qualified to fill up these open positions, and a group of Martial Law victims even provided a list of nominations.”
“We just hope that this will not be a case of ningas cogon. Victims and their families have waited long enough to be recognized and compensated for the abuses they were made to suffer during the Martial Law years. The government should not add to this long wait by dragging its feet on the implementation of the law.”
According to Villanueva, fellow Martial Law victims are expecting a stronger resolve from this administration to immediately implement the law given the President’s first-hand experience on the abuses committed during the dictatorship.
“We owe it to Ninoy and others who were martyred and made to suffer various forms of abuses during the Martial Law to immediately implement the Human Rights Victims Reparation and Recognition Act. Many of the victims and their families expect PNoy to prioritize this law’s implementation given his proximity to this issue. I hope the government does not disappoint them,” Villanueva said.
Earlier, Villanueva pushed for the appointment of a Martial Law victim to head the nine-member Human Rights Victims’ Claims Board saying this will ensure that the body stays true to its mandate.
Villanueva also encouraged Martial Law human rights victims to band together and reach out to fellow victims and their families to push for the immediate implementation of the law.
He said a sustained vigilance especially among human rights victims will ensure that majority, if not all, of those whose rights were violated during Martial Law are given the much-awaited recognition and compensation.
President Aquino signed the law on Feb. 25 Act to highlight the EDSA People Power revolution anniversary celebration.
Villanueva said the elation of Martial Law human rights victims and their families over the passage of the Human Rights Victims Reparation and Recognition Act is now fast dwindling, seeing no progress in the implementation of the landmark law.
He noted that the administration has yet to make the first step in implementing the law which is the creation of the Human Rights Victims’ Claims Board. The Board is responsible for drafting the law’s implementing rules and regulations (IRR) as well as evaluating and processing the applications for the compensations due to the victims.
“I don’t understand what is taking the government so long just to form the Claims Board. We have so many people qualified to fill up these open positions, and a group of Martial Law victims even provided a list of nominations.”
“We just hope that this will not be a case of ningas cogon. Victims and their families have waited long enough to be recognized and compensated for the abuses they were made to suffer during the Martial Law years. The government should not add to this long wait by dragging its feet on the implementation of the law.”
According to Villanueva, fellow Martial Law victims are expecting a stronger resolve from this administration to immediately implement the law given the President’s first-hand experience on the abuses committed during the dictatorship.
“We owe it to Ninoy and others who were martyred and made to suffer various forms of abuses during the Martial Law to immediately implement the Human Rights Victims Reparation and Recognition Act. Many of the victims and their families expect PNoy to prioritize this law’s implementation given his proximity to this issue. I hope the government does not disappoint them,” Villanueva said.
Earlier, Villanueva pushed for the appointment of a Martial Law victim to head the nine-member Human Rights Victims’ Claims Board saying this will ensure that the body stays true to its mandate.
Villanueva also encouraged Martial Law human rights victims to band together and reach out to fellow victims and their families to push for the immediate implementation of the law.
He said a sustained vigilance especially among human rights victims will ensure that majority, if not all, of those whose rights were violated during Martial Law are given the much-awaited recognition and compensation.
President Aquino signed the law on Feb. 25 Act to highlight the EDSA People Power revolution anniversary celebration.
Sunday, March 31, 2013
Villanueva, Hagedorn Hold Joint Motorcade In Bulacan
Independent senatorial bets Eddie Villanueva and Edward Hagedorn joined forces on Sunday to hold a campaign motorcade in Bulacan, affirming the “unwritten covenant” between the two candidates.Emerging from the Holy Week break, Villanueva and Hagedorn led a 40-vehicle convoy that passed thousands of supporters who lined the streets of Meycauayan City, Marilao, Bocaue, Balagtas, Guiguinto and Malolos City.
The convoy then proceeded to the towns of Plaridel, Pulilan, Baliuag, San Rafael, San Ildefonso and San Miguel.
“We are very happy to see throngs of fellow Bulaqueños who came out to see our motorcade. This is a good way to jumpstart the campaign coming from the Holy Week break, and as we start the last 45 days of the campaign,” Villanueva said.
“The show of support from my fellow Bulaqueños is really very encouraging and heart-warming. This gives us additional energy as we push on with our campaign.
The motorcade started early at around 6:30 a.m. at the section of the MacArthur Highway at the boundary of Meycauayan City and Malanday and proceeded to visit towns in Villanueva’s home province.
Streets were lined with people who took a break from their Easter Sunday celebrations to witness the motorcade.
The joint sortie came after the two candidates committed to support each other’s candidacy as part of an “unwritten covenant” which was reached during Villanueva’s visit to Puerto Princesa earlier this month. As part of the alliance, both camps agreed to schedule joint visits starting with Bulacan and Davao.
According to Villanueva, the joint motorcade was a good opportunity to convey to his supporters in Bulacan his alliance with Hagedorn who is a long-time friend and fellow independent senatorial candidate.
“This sortie is a product of our unwritten covenant to support each other’s senatorial campaign. As I have said before, Mayor Hagedorn shares, in principle, my belief that no one should be left out of the country’s economic growth which sits at the core of my advocacy of ‘politika at ekonomiyang sagigilid’,” Villanueva said.
Monday, March 25, 2013
Bro. Eddie Cautions BIR vs. Discouraging Small Business In New Tax Drive
Bangon Pilipinas lone senatorial candidate Eddie Villanueva on Monday cautioned the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) against stunting the growth of micro and small enterprises in its efforts to intensify tax collection on self-employed professionals and individuals paying less than P200,000 in taxes per year.
Villanueva said BIR’s efforts to increase tax collection should not add another hurdle in the success of those who are starting or running micro and small businesses such as sari-sari stores.
He said BIR should adopt specific measures to ensure that its new policy to prioritize the auditing of self-employed professionals and individuals who pay taxes that are below P200,000 will not be used as a barrier to entry or to harass local micro enterprises.
“While we support the government’s efforts to shore up revenue collection, BIR must ensure that micro entrepreneurs will not become collateral damage in its efforts to aggressively pursue tax collection efforts on high-earning self-employed professionals and individuals,” Villanueva said.
“What we are afraid of is that in our desire to increase our tax collection, we will be creating another barrier that would prevent poor Filipinos from starting a small business to help improve their family’s future.”
According to Villanueva, if the BIR intends to improve the compliance of high-earning professionals including lawyers and doctors to tax payment rules, it should issue very specific instructions detailing the scope of its aggressive audit efforts.
BIR’s new tax drive stemmed from its findings that self-employed individuals and professionals only accounted for 6.8% of the individual incomes taxes paid in 2012.
BIR data showed that self-employed individuals and professionals paid P15.1 billion in income taxes last year – much lower compared to the P181.7 billion paid out by employees whose taxes are withheld automatically by their employers.
Encourage MSMEs
Villanueva reiterated his earlier call that the government should encourage the development of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) throughout the country to spur jobs creation and alleviate poverty.
By creating institutions that will nurture MSMEs, Villanueva said the government will not only create jobs but will also unleash a potent force that will fast-track the country’s development both in urban and rural areas.
This policy of boosting employment through enterprise development forms part of Villanueva’s 3Es platform – Ekonomiyang Agresibo’t Walang Napag-iiwanan, Edukasyon na Napapanahon, at Entre-Pinoy na Masang Pilipino ang Nangunguna at Nakikinabang – which he envisions to directly alleviate the plight of the country’s marginalized sectors or the “sagigilids”.
In particular, Villanueva proposes the establishment of Community Entrepreneurial High Schools throughout the country which are envisioned to transform students, parents, and communities into entrepreneurs capable of growing micro, small, and medium businesses with the help of teachers and the local government.
Villanueva is also pushing for the creation of a National Cooperative Bank, an institution similar to the “Grameen Bank” concept which will encourage small and medium-scale industries and entrepreneurs through a lending institution with increased capitalization, support services, and technical support from the government.
Villanueva said BIR’s efforts to increase tax collection should not add another hurdle in the success of those who are starting or running micro and small businesses such as sari-sari stores.
He said BIR should adopt specific measures to ensure that its new policy to prioritize the auditing of self-employed professionals and individuals who pay taxes that are below P200,000 will not be used as a barrier to entry or to harass local micro enterprises.
“While we support the government’s efforts to shore up revenue collection, BIR must ensure that micro entrepreneurs will not become collateral damage in its efforts to aggressively pursue tax collection efforts on high-earning self-employed professionals and individuals,” Villanueva said.
“What we are afraid of is that in our desire to increase our tax collection, we will be creating another barrier that would prevent poor Filipinos from starting a small business to help improve their family’s future.”
According to Villanueva, if the BIR intends to improve the compliance of high-earning professionals including lawyers and doctors to tax payment rules, it should issue very specific instructions detailing the scope of its aggressive audit efforts.
BIR’s new tax drive stemmed from its findings that self-employed individuals and professionals only accounted for 6.8% of the individual incomes taxes paid in 2012.
BIR data showed that self-employed individuals and professionals paid P15.1 billion in income taxes last year – much lower compared to the P181.7 billion paid out by employees whose taxes are withheld automatically by their employers.
Encourage MSMEs
Villanueva reiterated his earlier call that the government should encourage the development of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) throughout the country to spur jobs creation and alleviate poverty.
By creating institutions that will nurture MSMEs, Villanueva said the government will not only create jobs but will also unleash a potent force that will fast-track the country’s development both in urban and rural areas.
This policy of boosting employment through enterprise development forms part of Villanueva’s 3Es platform – Ekonomiyang Agresibo’t Walang Napag-iiwanan, Edukasyon na Napapanahon, at Entre-Pinoy na Masang Pilipino ang Nangunguna at Nakikinabang – which he envisions to directly alleviate the plight of the country’s marginalized sectors or the “sagigilids”.
In particular, Villanueva proposes the establishment of Community Entrepreneurial High Schools throughout the country which are envisioned to transform students, parents, and communities into entrepreneurs capable of growing micro, small, and medium businesses with the help of teachers and the local government.
Villanueva is also pushing for the creation of a National Cooperative Bank, an institution similar to the “Grameen Bank” concept which will encourage small and medium-scale industries and entrepreneurs through a lending institution with increased capitalization, support services, and technical support from the government.
Thursday, March 21, 2013
Bro. Eddie Thankful For Manny Pacquiao's Support
I am very thankful for the support that Manny is giving to my senatorial campaign. His support for my bid and my platform which focuses on pulitika at ekonomiyang sagigilid gives a strong boost to our advocacy of ensuring that all Filipinos must be included in the country’s economic growth.
Manny’s support will help us bring our message closer to the sagigilids because many of the country’s poor and underprivileged – who are the ultimate beneficiaries of our platform – can relate to him.
Manny knows first hand the challenges that comes with poverty, and he will help me in showing them that if provided the right environment and the necessary support mechanisms they, too, can reap the fruits not only of their personal labors but also benefit from the country’s economic growth.
Bro. Eddie Villanueva, lone senatorial candidate of Bangon Pilipinas, made a courtesy call to Pacquiao in his General Santos City residence on Wednesday evening, after meeting with local government executives in General Santos City and Muslim leaders in South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, and General Santos City (SOCCSKSARGEN).
During the meeting, Pacquiao said he will personally support Villanueva’s candidacy and invited Villanueva to be his special guest during a political rally which Pacquiao is organizing in General Santos City on Saturday, 23 March, 6 pm.
Manny’s support will help us bring our message closer to the sagigilids because many of the country’s poor and underprivileged – who are the ultimate beneficiaries of our platform – can relate to him.
Manny knows first hand the challenges that comes with poverty, and he will help me in showing them that if provided the right environment and the necessary support mechanisms they, too, can reap the fruits not only of their personal labors but also benefit from the country’s economic growth.
Bro. Eddie Villanueva, lone senatorial candidate of Bangon Pilipinas, made a courtesy call to Pacquiao in his General Santos City residence on Wednesday evening, after meeting with local government executives in General Santos City and Muslim leaders in South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, and General Santos City (SOCCSKSARGEN).
During the meeting, Pacquiao said he will personally support Villanueva’s candidacy and invited Villanueva to be his special guest during a political rally which Pacquiao is organizing in General Santos City on Saturday, 23 March, 6 pm.
Sunday, March 17, 2013
Bro. Eddie Tells Government To Address Mindanao Power Crisis Now
Bangon Pilipinas lone senatorial candidate Eddie Villanueva on Sunday urged Malacañang to act now to address the continuing threat of another power crisis in Mindanao, saying massive disruptions will set back decades worth of progress in the region.
Mindanao is bracing for a worse power situation this summer with lowered capacity from the hydroelectric power plants, the island’s primary power sources. Some parts of the region, notably in General Santos City, have reportedly started experiencing 7- to 8-hour brownouts.
Villanueva said the government should aggressively develop Mindanao’s generating capacity and diversify energy sources to lessen the grid’s dependence on hydro power which produces less power during prolonged dry season including summer months.
“If we are to sustain our solid economic performance in the past years, the government should find a sustainable solution to the Mindanao power crisis which is now seeing signs of a resurgence of eight-hour power blackouts in 2010,” Villanueva said.
“Without an interconnection with the Luzon and Visayas grid that will allow generated power in these regions to augment supply in Mindanao, the government should look into developing more indigenous, renewable power sources in the region to meet its growing electricity requirements.”
Development of renewable energy sources
Particularly, Villanueva said the government should provide incentives for the development of renewable energy sources in Mindanao, such as solar power facilities, run-of-the-river and biomass power plants.
Already, some parts of the region have been experiencing rotating brownouts with the continued failure to provide adequate power supply to the region.
For its Sunday’s power outlook, the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines predicted a 55-megawatt (MW) power supply shortfall in Mindanao when it hits its daily peak load of 1,222 MW.
Villanueva said the government should look closer into the reasons why private power producers in Mindanao hold off power sales to the grid due to lower power rates in the region compared to those in Luzon and Visayas grids.
“Mindanao’s generation capacity per se is sufficient to meet the region’s power requirements. However, the reluctance of private power producers to sell their generated power to the grid contributes significantly to the supply short fall that the region currently faces,” Villanueva said.
Plight of residents, businesses
“The government should exercise its power to bring this available power into the grid, and consider the plight of residents and businesses in Mindanao who bear the brunt of such business decision to hold off power sales to the grid just to force electricity rate up,” he said.
“Residents and business owners have started complaining about these rotating brownouts that last seven or eight hours because these have disrupted their lives and livelihood,” Villanueva noted. “Government needs to act now to avert any more problems.”
Villanueva noted that the Philippines currently has one of the highest power rates in Asia next only to Japan, suggesting that power generation companies in the country are making big money from their businesses.
“These companies should recognize the public interest imbued in the power generation business. And the government must adopt policies that aim protect the consuming public against profit-oriented mentality in operating a public utility,” Villanueva said.
Mindanao is bracing for a worse power situation this summer with lowered capacity from the hydroelectric power plants, the island’s primary power sources. Some parts of the region, notably in General Santos City, have reportedly started experiencing 7- to 8-hour brownouts.
Villanueva said the government should aggressively develop Mindanao’s generating capacity and diversify energy sources to lessen the grid’s dependence on hydro power which produces less power during prolonged dry season including summer months.
“If we are to sustain our solid economic performance in the past years, the government should find a sustainable solution to the Mindanao power crisis which is now seeing signs of a resurgence of eight-hour power blackouts in 2010,” Villanueva said.
“Without an interconnection with the Luzon and Visayas grid that will allow generated power in these regions to augment supply in Mindanao, the government should look into developing more indigenous, renewable power sources in the region to meet its growing electricity requirements.”
Development of renewable energy sources
Particularly, Villanueva said the government should provide incentives for the development of renewable energy sources in Mindanao, such as solar power facilities, run-of-the-river and biomass power plants.
Already, some parts of the region have been experiencing rotating brownouts with the continued failure to provide adequate power supply to the region.
For its Sunday’s power outlook, the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines predicted a 55-megawatt (MW) power supply shortfall in Mindanao when it hits its daily peak load of 1,222 MW.
Villanueva said the government should look closer into the reasons why private power producers in Mindanao hold off power sales to the grid due to lower power rates in the region compared to those in Luzon and Visayas grids.
“Mindanao’s generation capacity per se is sufficient to meet the region’s power requirements. However, the reluctance of private power producers to sell their generated power to the grid contributes significantly to the supply short fall that the region currently faces,” Villanueva said.
Plight of residents, businesses
“The government should exercise its power to bring this available power into the grid, and consider the plight of residents and businesses in Mindanao who bear the brunt of such business decision to hold off power sales to the grid just to force electricity rate up,” he said.
“Residents and business owners have started complaining about these rotating brownouts that last seven or eight hours because these have disrupted their lives and livelihood,” Villanueva noted. “Government needs to act now to avert any more problems.”
Villanueva noted that the Philippines currently has one of the highest power rates in Asia next only to Japan, suggesting that power generation companies in the country are making big money from their businesses.
“These companies should recognize the public interest imbued in the power generation business. And the government must adopt policies that aim protect the consuming public against profit-oriented mentality in operating a public utility,” Villanueva said.
Saturday, March 16, 2013
Bro. Eddie on UP Student's Suicide Due To Inability To Pay Tuition
I join millions in mourning for the death of the UP Manila student who reportedly committed suicide after being forced to file a leave of absence (LOA) from the university for having no money to pay her tuition this semester. I heard that UP Manila has a "no late-payment" policy where students are advised to file LOA if deadline of payment of tuition is not met.
This deplorable death serves as proof that a lot remains to be done in bringing down the cost of education in the country.
We know that quality education comes at a high cost. But we also believe that the government has the constitutional and moral duty to educate its people – this is why we have been saying that the government should increase its spending for education and make concrete steps to offer free college level education for poor but deserving students.
Our universities and colleges should show more compassion to students facing financial difficulties by taking more aggressive steps to reach out to these students and offering assistance such as conditional scholarships, student loans, or in-campus jobs to help ease their financial and psychological burdens.
Let us pray that we will all learn from this experience so that a loss of another bright mind will not be for naught.
This deplorable death serves as proof that a lot remains to be done in bringing down the cost of education in the country.
We know that quality education comes at a high cost. But we also believe that the government has the constitutional and moral duty to educate its people – this is why we have been saying that the government should increase its spending for education and make concrete steps to offer free college level education for poor but deserving students.
Our universities and colleges should show more compassion to students facing financial difficulties by taking more aggressive steps to reach out to these students and offering assistance such as conditional scholarships, student loans, or in-campus jobs to help ease their financial and psychological burdens.
Let us pray that we will all learn from this experience so that a loss of another bright mind will not be for naught.
Thursday, March 14, 2013
BRO. EDDIE SLAMS MALAYSIA OVER UNFAIR TREATMENT OF FILIPINOS IN SABAH, QUESTIONS GOVERNMENT'S 'CONDITIONAL' ASSISTANCE OF FILIPINO EVACUEES
Bro. Eddie Villanueva on Thursday slammed the Malaysian government for continuously denying access to Filipinos arrested by Malaysian forces as a result of the ongoing situation in Sabah.
This, as he criticized Philippine government officials for placing conditions in helping Filipinos coming from Sabah.
A victim of the Martial Law who was jailed twice for opposing the Marcos regime, Villanueva said he sympathizes with Filipinos now detained in Malaysia over suspicions that they belong to or sympathize with the group that occupied a village in Lahad Datu and sparked a standoff with Malaysian authorities.
"As a former Martial Law prisoner, I know how it feels to be jailed without cause, without knowing if I will still see the light of day,” said Villanueva, the lone senatorial candidate of the Bangon Pilipinas party.
"I sympathize, especially with the families of those arrested, because they have no way of knowing how their loved ones are doing."
Villanueva stressed that reports of maltreatment against the Filipinos suspected of sympathizing with the Sultanate of Sulu should be addressed immediately.He pointed out that despite the numerous requests of the Philippine government for access to the detainees, these seem to be falling on deaf ears.
"The government has been taking a diplomatic approach from the start, but it does not seem to be working… The government should more aggressively assert its right to gain access to our fellow Filipinos in Sabah," Villanueva said.
"What's taking the Malaysian government so long to give the Philippine government access to the detainees? Malaysia's iron-clad laws have no space for a democratic community.”
Villanueva also called on the Malaysian government to spare Filipino children, women and elderly against forced repatriation. He added that many Filipinos have been living and working in Malaysia for years.
"Filipinos and Malaysians share a common Malay lineage and blood. We are brothers," he said.
Meanwhile, Villanueva lambasted Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte and DSWD Secretary Dinky Soliman for saying that Filipino evacuees from Sabah should have affidavits or documentation before government assistance is extended to them.
"Our government needs to provide humanitarian assistance to those affected by the conflict in Sabah immediately and without any pre-conditions. Ensuring the protection of our fellow Filipinos’ basic human rights takes precedence over such documentary requirements anytime... We are facing a crisis, and this is not the time for bureaucratic wrangling," Villanueva said.
Villanueva likewise expressed concern over the silence of the Commission on Human Rights and its chair Etta Rosales despite numerous allegations of human rights abuses against Filipinos in Malaysia.
"The reported atrocities by Malaysia against Filipinos should prompt the CHR to send a fact-finding team to check on the situation, and forward a communication to the United Nations Human Rights Commission regarding the situation," he said.
This, as he criticized Philippine government officials for placing conditions in helping Filipinos coming from Sabah.
A victim of the Martial Law who was jailed twice for opposing the Marcos regime, Villanueva said he sympathizes with Filipinos now detained in Malaysia over suspicions that they belong to or sympathize with the group that occupied a village in Lahad Datu and sparked a standoff with Malaysian authorities.
"As a former Martial Law prisoner, I know how it feels to be jailed without cause, without knowing if I will still see the light of day,” said Villanueva, the lone senatorial candidate of the Bangon Pilipinas party.
"I sympathize, especially with the families of those arrested, because they have no way of knowing how their loved ones are doing."
Villanueva stressed that reports of maltreatment against the Filipinos suspected of sympathizing with the Sultanate of Sulu should be addressed immediately.He pointed out that despite the numerous requests of the Philippine government for access to the detainees, these seem to be falling on deaf ears.
"The government has been taking a diplomatic approach from the start, but it does not seem to be working… The government should more aggressively assert its right to gain access to our fellow Filipinos in Sabah," Villanueva said.
"What's taking the Malaysian government so long to give the Philippine government access to the detainees? Malaysia's iron-clad laws have no space for a democratic community.”
Villanueva also called on the Malaysian government to spare Filipino children, women and elderly against forced repatriation. He added that many Filipinos have been living and working in Malaysia for years.
"Filipinos and Malaysians share a common Malay lineage and blood. We are brothers," he said.
Meanwhile, Villanueva lambasted Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte and DSWD Secretary Dinky Soliman for saying that Filipino evacuees from Sabah should have affidavits or documentation before government assistance is extended to them.
"Our government needs to provide humanitarian assistance to those affected by the conflict in Sabah immediately and without any pre-conditions. Ensuring the protection of our fellow Filipinos’ basic human rights takes precedence over such documentary requirements anytime... We are facing a crisis, and this is not the time for bureaucratic wrangling," Villanueva said.
Villanueva likewise expressed concern over the silence of the Commission on Human Rights and its chair Etta Rosales despite numerous allegations of human rights abuses against Filipinos in Malaysia.
"The reported atrocities by Malaysia against Filipinos should prompt the CHR to send a fact-finding team to check on the situation, and forward a communication to the United Nations Human Rights Commission regarding the situation," he said.
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
Bro. Eddie Questions Government's Rice Exports Plan
Bangon Pilipinas lone senatorial candidate Eddie Villanueva on Wednesday questioned the government’s plans to export up to 100 metric tons of rice this year.
The government should prioritize the country’s goal of achieving rice self-sufficiency before establishing a footing as a rice exporter, Villanueva said. “There seems to be a disconnect here. While the country has yet to achieve the objective of producing enough rice to supply our local requirements, the government is already moving toward exporting rice.”
Villanueva posted his opposition as he also expressed concern over the capability of government to ensure rice sufficiency in resettlement areas in Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi with more Filipinos from Sabah coming back to the Philippines as a result of the Sabah situation.
“If half of the 800,000 Filipinos in Sabah returns, can we feed all of them?,” he said. “What contingency plans are in place to ensure that not only prices of food in the areas remain stable, but more importantly there is enough supply to go around?”
Earlier, Agriculture Assistant Secretary and National Rice Program coordinator Dante Delima said the Philippines plans to export 50MT to 100 MT of premium rice to Hong Kong, Macau, and Europe this year.
Villanueva noted that instead of focusing on rice exports, the government should review its policies on the importation of agricultural products and other trade commitments to ensure that the country’s farmers are protected from unfair global trade.
“The government should review its plans to increase rice exports because it is a fact that we are not yet self-sufficient. Before we feed other countries, let's ensure that we feed our fellow Filipinos first with good, quality rice,” Villanueva said.
“This goes not only for our rice production but for our overall local food production.”
Accelerate food security goals
To meet the country’s food security goals, Villanueva said the government should consider providing subsidy for farm implements, lifting tariff and customs fees for farm equipment and machineries, and extending other funding assistance for farmers and farmers’ cooperatives.
He said the government should also consider combining the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Agrarian Reform – a move that will improve the government’s focus and enhance harmony of government programs in ensuring social justice and agricultural productivity.
“Real progress in our agricultural sector will have a direct impact in alleviating the lives of the sagigilid, considering that majority of our population – including many poor Filipino households – belong to this sector,” Villanueva said.
The government should prioritize the country’s goal of achieving rice self-sufficiency before establishing a footing as a rice exporter, Villanueva said. “There seems to be a disconnect here. While the country has yet to achieve the objective of producing enough rice to supply our local requirements, the government is already moving toward exporting rice.”
Villanueva posted his opposition as he also expressed concern over the capability of government to ensure rice sufficiency in resettlement areas in Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi with more Filipinos from Sabah coming back to the Philippines as a result of the Sabah situation.
“If half of the 800,000 Filipinos in Sabah returns, can we feed all of them?,” he said. “What contingency plans are in place to ensure that not only prices of food in the areas remain stable, but more importantly there is enough supply to go around?”
Earlier, Agriculture Assistant Secretary and National Rice Program coordinator Dante Delima said the Philippines plans to export 50MT to 100 MT of premium rice to Hong Kong, Macau, and Europe this year.
Villanueva noted that instead of focusing on rice exports, the government should review its policies on the importation of agricultural products and other trade commitments to ensure that the country’s farmers are protected from unfair global trade.
“The government should review its plans to increase rice exports because it is a fact that we are not yet self-sufficient. Before we feed other countries, let's ensure that we feed our fellow Filipinos first with good, quality rice,” Villanueva said.
“This goes not only for our rice production but for our overall local food production.”
Accelerate food security goals
To meet the country’s food security goals, Villanueva said the government should consider providing subsidy for farm implements, lifting tariff and customs fees for farm equipment and machineries, and extending other funding assistance for farmers and farmers’ cooperatives.
He said the government should also consider combining the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Agrarian Reform – a move that will improve the government’s focus and enhance harmony of government programs in ensuring social justice and agricultural productivity.
“Real progress in our agricultural sector will have a direct impact in alleviating the lives of the sagigilid, considering that majority of our population – including many poor Filipino households – belong to this sector,” Villanueva said.
Sunday, March 10, 2013
Adopt Measures To Protect Economy Vs. Foreign Capital Flight, Bro. Eddie Urges Government
Bangon Pilipinas lone senatorial candidate Eddie Villanueva on Sunday urged the government economic managers to institute measures to protect the economy against the possibility of capital flight, following warnings from an international credit ratings agency.
Villanueva said the government should take heed of Standard and Poor’s word of caution for the Philippines and other emerging markets in the Asia-Pacific region on the potential reversal of the recent surge in portfolio investments in the local stock market once the United States and European economies recover.“The government should put in place safeguards that will protect our economy from the sudden outflow of foreign hot money. Let's learn the lessons of the 1997 and 2008 financial crises, where hot money, or portfolio investments, was the primary culprit,” Villanueva said.
Focus on attracting solid investments in agriculture
“We should be reminded that any investment in the Philippine stock market can go out as quickly as they came in.”
Villanueva said the government should focus more on attracting more solid investments in the agricultural sector which holds the biggest potential for a sustainable base for economic development.
He noted that the Philippines is an agricultural country and majority of the population – including many poor Filipino households or the sagigilids – belong to the agricultural sector, and that new investments in this sector which directly translates to more jobs and higher incomes for the country’s agricultural workers.
“We should invite more direct investments in agriculture both from foreign and domestic sources in order to build an economy that will concretely benefit our country by providing real jobs and, at the same time, shielding us from the volatility of hot money easily leaving our shores,” Villanueva said.This will also serve to accelerate the recovery of the country’s agricultural sector which has lagged against regional neighbors in recent decades, he added.
Villanueva said government policies that will encourage organic food production, food security, and production of materials for clothing and shelter using agricultural and forestry by-products will provide a much-needed boost to the sector.
Incentives for agriculture sector
The government should also consider giving subsidy for farm implements, work on lifting tariff and customs fees for farm equipment and machineries, and explore the possibility of extending other funding assistance for farmers and farmers’ cooperatives.
Further, the government should also review its policies on the importation of agricultural products and other trade commitments to ensure that the country’s farmers are protected from unfair global trade, Villanueva said.
“By putting agriculture at the center of the government’s economic agenda, we will not only develop a solid base for economic growth and ensure food security for our people, but we will also bring the country back on the global map as a producer of one of the most vital commodities in the world, which is food,” Villanueva said.
Villanueva said the government should take heed of Standard and Poor’s word of caution for the Philippines and other emerging markets in the Asia-Pacific region on the potential reversal of the recent surge in portfolio investments in the local stock market once the United States and European economies recover.“The government should put in place safeguards that will protect our economy from the sudden outflow of foreign hot money. Let's learn the lessons of the 1997 and 2008 financial crises, where hot money, or portfolio investments, was the primary culprit,” Villanueva said.
Focus on attracting solid investments in agriculture
“We should be reminded that any investment in the Philippine stock market can go out as quickly as they came in.”
Villanueva said the government should focus more on attracting more solid investments in the agricultural sector which holds the biggest potential for a sustainable base for economic development.
He noted that the Philippines is an agricultural country and majority of the population – including many poor Filipino households or the sagigilids – belong to the agricultural sector, and that new investments in this sector which directly translates to more jobs and higher incomes for the country’s agricultural workers.
“We should invite more direct investments in agriculture both from foreign and domestic sources in order to build an economy that will concretely benefit our country by providing real jobs and, at the same time, shielding us from the volatility of hot money easily leaving our shores,” Villanueva said.This will also serve to accelerate the recovery of the country’s agricultural sector which has lagged against regional neighbors in recent decades, he added.
Villanueva said government policies that will encourage organic food production, food security, and production of materials for clothing and shelter using agricultural and forestry by-products will provide a much-needed boost to the sector.
Incentives for agriculture sector
The government should also consider giving subsidy for farm implements, work on lifting tariff and customs fees for farm equipment and machineries, and explore the possibility of extending other funding assistance for farmers and farmers’ cooperatives.
Further, the government should also review its policies on the importation of agricultural products and other trade commitments to ensure that the country’s farmers are protected from unfair global trade, Villanueva said.
“By putting agriculture at the center of the government’s economic agenda, we will not only develop a solid base for economic growth and ensure food security for our people, but we will also bring the country back on the global map as a producer of one of the most vital commodities in the world, which is food,” Villanueva said.
Friday, March 8, 2013
Bro. Eddie Pushes for Revival of Anti-Usury Law
Citing unconscionable interest rates collected on loans, Bangon Pilipinas lone senatorial candidate Eddie Villanueva on Friday pushed for the revival of a 1916 law that provides ceilings on interest charges on loans.
Villanueva said if elected to the Senate, he will file a bill to put back into effect the Anti-Usury Law, which was amended by Presidential Decree No. 116, fixed the maximum interest rates on loans at 12% per annum.
He said such a measure will restore protection to Filipinos who, wittingly or unwittingly, take out loans despite high interest rates – worsening the borrowers’ financial problems.
“The most vulnerable in this ongoing scheme are our sagigilids. Take the case of our overseas Filipino workers who had to borrow money from 5-6 so they can pay for the placement fees and other related charges so they can work abroad to fend for their families,” Villanueva said. “In the first few months of them working abroad, they have to pay off those high-interest loans.”
“And then there are our farmers, fishermen and poor families who are forced to live in debt because they cannot earn enough to live a decent life. If we are to help them break out from the cycle of poverty, we need to have a law that will protect them from these abusive lenders,” Villanueva said.
“We need to have a law that will save Filipinos from becoming willing or unwilling victims of 5-6 and other usurious forms of loans.”
He noted that the Anti-Usury Law will cover institutional lenders such as banks and credit unions, peer-to-peer lenders, and credit card companies and prevents them from charging unconscionable interest rates on loans given to borrowers.
Villanueva said the general features of the proposed law include fixing a legal ceiling limit on how much a can lender impose as interest rate. That limit can either be based on inflation or the 91-day Treasury bill, whichever is lower.
In February 1916, Congress enacted Republic Act No. 2655 entitled “An Act Fixing Rates Of Interest Upon Loans And Declaring The Effect Of Receiving Or Taking Usurious Rates And For Other Purposes” setting interest rates at “six per centum per annum.”
The law was amended in January 1973 by Presidential Decree No. 116, adjusting the maximum rate of loan interests to 12% per annum.
In December 1982, however, the then-Central Bank of the Philippines issued Circular No. 905 that effectively suspended the law by removing the ceiling on interest rates.
According to Villanueva, many lenders have since exploited the suspension of limits on interest rates, charging up to 42% per annum in compounded interest.
“Without government intervention on the current sky-high interest rates being collected by lending firms and individuals, Filipino consumers – but most especially the poor – will sink deeper into the debt trap in their desire to put food on the table and a roof over their heads,” Villanueva said.
Villanueva said if elected to the Senate, he will file a bill to put back into effect the Anti-Usury Law, which was amended by Presidential Decree No. 116, fixed the maximum interest rates on loans at 12% per annum.
He said such a measure will restore protection to Filipinos who, wittingly or unwittingly, take out loans despite high interest rates – worsening the borrowers’ financial problems.
“The most vulnerable in this ongoing scheme are our sagigilids. Take the case of our overseas Filipino workers who had to borrow money from 5-6 so they can pay for the placement fees and other related charges so they can work abroad to fend for their families,” Villanueva said. “In the first few months of them working abroad, they have to pay off those high-interest loans.”
“And then there are our farmers, fishermen and poor families who are forced to live in debt because they cannot earn enough to live a decent life. If we are to help them break out from the cycle of poverty, we need to have a law that will protect them from these abusive lenders,” Villanueva said.
“We need to have a law that will save Filipinos from becoming willing or unwilling victims of 5-6 and other usurious forms of loans.”
He noted that the Anti-Usury Law will cover institutional lenders such as banks and credit unions, peer-to-peer lenders, and credit card companies and prevents them from charging unconscionable interest rates on loans given to borrowers.
Villanueva said the general features of the proposed law include fixing a legal ceiling limit on how much a can lender impose as interest rate. That limit can either be based on inflation or the 91-day Treasury bill, whichever is lower.
In February 1916, Congress enacted Republic Act No. 2655 entitled “An Act Fixing Rates Of Interest Upon Loans And Declaring The Effect Of Receiving Or Taking Usurious Rates And For Other Purposes” setting interest rates at “six per centum per annum.”
The law was amended in January 1973 by Presidential Decree No. 116, adjusting the maximum rate of loan interests to 12% per annum.
In December 1982, however, the then-Central Bank of the Philippines issued Circular No. 905 that effectively suspended the law by removing the ceiling on interest rates.
According to Villanueva, many lenders have since exploited the suspension of limits on interest rates, charging up to 42% per annum in compounded interest.
“Without government intervention on the current sky-high interest rates being collected by lending firms and individuals, Filipino consumers – but most especially the poor – will sink deeper into the debt trap in their desire to put food on the table and a roof over their heads,” Villanueva said.
Thursday, March 7, 2013
Government Not Doing Enough To Generate Jobs
Students who are graduating from college and technical-vocational trainings at the end of this school year will continue to face difficulty in finding jobs – the same problems faced by many Filipinos who entered the workforce in past years.
Bangon Pilipinas lone senatorial candidate Eddie Villanueva on Thursday said this problem stems from the government’s failure to create enough jobs that can accommodate new entrants to the workforce every year, and the lack of effective measures being done to narrow the skills-jobs mismatch.“Every year, our fresh graduates face the same problems. Sadly, the government is making very limited progress in creating an environment that will encourage the creation of local jobs,” Villanueva said.
The senatorial candidate cited findings in the Second Anniversary Assessment of the Arangkada Philippines Forum – a joint project by the joint foreign chambers of the Philippines – that the economy is not creating enough high quality jobs for an average of 846,000 Filipinos who join the workforce every year.The report stated that the lack of local jobs is a reason why the Philippines has the highest brain drain among ASEAN-6 countries, with 2012 local unemployment rate at 7.2%, and underemployment at 18.8%, according to the National Statistical Coordination Board (NSCB).
Ordinary Filipinos not feeling strong economy
Villanueva said these findings puts into context the economic achievements being touted by the government, saying the high unemployment and underemployment levels indicate that ordinary Filipino families are not feeling the benefits of a stronger economy.
“While we recognize the advances made on investments, infrastructure development, and the economy in general, we should continue to ask this question: Where are the people, especially the sagigilid, in the bigger scheme of things? How do we know if these investments are really helping our people? Because the so-called progress does seem to be reaching everyone,” Villanueva said.“In order to be really inclusive, people should be the starting point in any discussion on economic development.”
Villanueva said this should serve as another wake-up call for the government to revise school curriculum to develop graduates with solid skills that are highly in demand in high-growth sectors such as in agribusiness, information technology , and entrepreneurship.Reforms in the Philippine educational sector is one of the three pillars of Villanueva’s 3Es platform – Ekonomiyang Agresibo’t Walang Napag-iiwanan, Edukasyon na Napapanahon, at Entre-Pinoy na Masang Pilipino ang Nangunguna at Nakikinabang. The 3Es is focused on ensuring that marginalized sectors – or the “sagigilids” – will not be left out of the country’s development.
“We need a curriculum that emphasizes subjects and skills that are highly-demanded by the labor market, while ensuring students’ mastery of core subjects such as English, Science, Mathematics, Philippine History and Active Citizenship, and the Arts that are needed to develop necessary cognitive skills for global and creative thinking,” Villanueva said.“The government should mold our educational system into an institution that plays a key role in pushing the country’s productivity by leading research and development initiatives in key sectors such as agriculture, agro-tourism, entrepreneurship, and science and technology.”
As part of his campaign platform, Villanueva also proposes the establishment of Community Entrepreneurial High Schools to encourage a thriving micro-, small- and medium-enterprises that can open up more jobs for Filipino workers and professionals.
Bangon Pilipinas lone senatorial candidate Eddie Villanueva on Thursday said this problem stems from the government’s failure to create enough jobs that can accommodate new entrants to the workforce every year, and the lack of effective measures being done to narrow the skills-jobs mismatch.“Every year, our fresh graduates face the same problems. Sadly, the government is making very limited progress in creating an environment that will encourage the creation of local jobs,” Villanueva said.
The senatorial candidate cited findings in the Second Anniversary Assessment of the Arangkada Philippines Forum – a joint project by the joint foreign chambers of the Philippines – that the economy is not creating enough high quality jobs for an average of 846,000 Filipinos who join the workforce every year.The report stated that the lack of local jobs is a reason why the Philippines has the highest brain drain among ASEAN-6 countries, with 2012 local unemployment rate at 7.2%, and underemployment at 18.8%, according to the National Statistical Coordination Board (NSCB).
Ordinary Filipinos not feeling strong economy
Villanueva said these findings puts into context the economic achievements being touted by the government, saying the high unemployment and underemployment levels indicate that ordinary Filipino families are not feeling the benefits of a stronger economy.
“While we recognize the advances made on investments, infrastructure development, and the economy in general, we should continue to ask this question: Where are the people, especially the sagigilid, in the bigger scheme of things? How do we know if these investments are really helping our people? Because the so-called progress does seem to be reaching everyone,” Villanueva said.“In order to be really inclusive, people should be the starting point in any discussion on economic development.”
Villanueva said this should serve as another wake-up call for the government to revise school curriculum to develop graduates with solid skills that are highly in demand in high-growth sectors such as in agribusiness, information technology , and entrepreneurship.Reforms in the Philippine educational sector is one of the three pillars of Villanueva’s 3Es platform – Ekonomiyang Agresibo’t Walang Napag-iiwanan, Edukasyon na Napapanahon, at Entre-Pinoy na Masang Pilipino ang Nangunguna at Nakikinabang. The 3Es is focused on ensuring that marginalized sectors – or the “sagigilids” – will not be left out of the country’s development.
“We need a curriculum that emphasizes subjects and skills that are highly-demanded by the labor market, while ensuring students’ mastery of core subjects such as English, Science, Mathematics, Philippine History and Active Citizenship, and the Arts that are needed to develop necessary cognitive skills for global and creative thinking,” Villanueva said.“The government should mold our educational system into an institution that plays a key role in pushing the country’s productivity by leading research and development initiatives in key sectors such as agriculture, agro-tourism, entrepreneurship, and science and technology.”
As part of his campaign platform, Villanueva also proposes the establishment of Community Entrepreneurial High Schools to encourage a thriving micro-, small- and medium-enterprises that can open up more jobs for Filipino workers and professionals.
Tuesday, March 5, 2013
Government Fails On Its Promise To Bring Prosperity To The Poor - Bro. Eddie
Bangon Pilipinas lone senatorial candidate Eddie Villanueva on Tuesday said government has failed to deliver on its promise to alleviate the plight of the marginalized sector, citing data which shows a growing distance between the country’s rich and poor populations.
“Clearly, the increasing gap between the rich and poor Filipinos show how the government has failed in its decades-old promise of bringing development and prosperity to the country’s poor,” Villanueva said.
At a recent economic forum, data presented by former economic planning director-general Cielito Habito show that in 2011 the wealth growth of the 40 richest individuals in the country is equivalent to 76% of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) growth. This is the highest in Asia as the wealth growth of Thailand’s top 40 was only at 33.7% of its GDP growth while it was 5.6% for Malaysia.
nder the Forbes 2012 list of the wealthiest people in the Philippines, Henry Sy and Lucio Tan posted a combined wealth of over $13.6 billion which is equivalent to 6% of the entire Philippine economy.
Villanueva said the government’s economic managers need to give more focus on bridging the increasing divide between the two groups, noting that these numbers provide empirical support behind the common sentiment that very few are benefitting from the country’s economic growth.
“While unfortunate, this data supports our advocacy of pursuing our politika at ekonomiya ng sagigilid that brings the interests of our poor to the fore of the government’s policies,” he added. “This validates the need for urgent reforms in the government’s policies to ensure that the poor is not left out of economic gains.”
Villanueva’s campaign is anchored on inclusive growth that will benefit the country’s underserved, under-represented, and poor sectors – or those he collectively refers to as the “sagigilid”.
Villanueva’s 3Es platform – Ekonomiyang Agresibo’t Walang Napag-iiwanan, Edukasyon na Napapanahon, at Entre-Pinoy na Masang Pilipino ang Nangunguna at Nakikinabang. Economy – pushes specific policy reforms that will empower marginalized Filipinos and provide necessary infrastructure to allow them to benefit from the country’s economic gains.
Under his platform, Villanueva proposes legislative measures that will support a “genuine” agro-industrial development which, he said, will directly increase earnings of many poor Filipino households that belong to this sector.
He also supports legislation that will protect and uphold the rights and interests of the Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and measures that will prepare the local environment for their eventual return to the country.
As part of his economic platform, Villanueva proposes amendments to the Local Government Code that will focus on enhancing the sharing scheme of both internal revenues and the national wealth.
On education, Villanueva advocates higher government investments in the sector, consistent to his belief that competitiveness is not only a function of relevant physical infrastructure, but also of a highly educated human resource.
On employment through entrepreneurship, Villanueva seeks measures that will establish Community Entrepreneurial High Schools throughout the country. These schools are envisioned to transform students, parents, and communities into entrepreneurs capable of growing micro, small, and medium businesses with the help of teachers and the local government.
“No real progress leaves out majority of the population in the throes of poverty and insecurity. With the increasing gap between the country’s rich and poor populations, it is even more important now for us to push government to adopt policies that will shift how it views development and see it in terms of how it will ultimately impact the country’s “sagigilid”,” Villanueva said.
“Clearly, the increasing gap between the rich and poor Filipinos show how the government has failed in its decades-old promise of bringing development and prosperity to the country’s poor,” Villanueva said.
At a recent economic forum, data presented by former economic planning director-general Cielito Habito show that in 2011 the wealth growth of the 40 richest individuals in the country is equivalent to 76% of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) growth. This is the highest in Asia as the wealth growth of Thailand’s top 40 was only at 33.7% of its GDP growth while it was 5.6% for Malaysia.
nder the Forbes 2012 list of the wealthiest people in the Philippines, Henry Sy and Lucio Tan posted a combined wealth of over $13.6 billion which is equivalent to 6% of the entire Philippine economy.
Villanueva said the government’s economic managers need to give more focus on bridging the increasing divide between the two groups, noting that these numbers provide empirical support behind the common sentiment that very few are benefitting from the country’s economic growth.
“While unfortunate, this data supports our advocacy of pursuing our politika at ekonomiya ng sagigilid that brings the interests of our poor to the fore of the government’s policies,” he added. “This validates the need for urgent reforms in the government’s policies to ensure that the poor is not left out of economic gains.”
Villanueva’s campaign is anchored on inclusive growth that will benefit the country’s underserved, under-represented, and poor sectors – or those he collectively refers to as the “sagigilid”.
Villanueva’s 3Es platform – Ekonomiyang Agresibo’t Walang Napag-iiwanan, Edukasyon na Napapanahon, at Entre-Pinoy na Masang Pilipino ang Nangunguna at Nakikinabang. Economy – pushes specific policy reforms that will empower marginalized Filipinos and provide necessary infrastructure to allow them to benefit from the country’s economic gains.
Under his platform, Villanueva proposes legislative measures that will support a “genuine” agro-industrial development which, he said, will directly increase earnings of many poor Filipino households that belong to this sector.
He also supports legislation that will protect and uphold the rights and interests of the Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and measures that will prepare the local environment for their eventual return to the country.
As part of his economic platform, Villanueva proposes amendments to the Local Government Code that will focus on enhancing the sharing scheme of both internal revenues and the national wealth.
On education, Villanueva advocates higher government investments in the sector, consistent to his belief that competitiveness is not only a function of relevant physical infrastructure, but also of a highly educated human resource.
On employment through entrepreneurship, Villanueva seeks measures that will establish Community Entrepreneurial High Schools throughout the country. These schools are envisioned to transform students, parents, and communities into entrepreneurs capable of growing micro, small, and medium businesses with the help of teachers and the local government.
“No real progress leaves out majority of the population in the throes of poverty and insecurity. With the increasing gap between the country’s rich and poor populations, it is even more important now for us to push government to adopt policies that will shift how it views development and see it in terms of how it will ultimately impact the country’s “sagigilid”,” Villanueva said.
Monday, March 4, 2013
Bro. Eddie Tells Government: Get Your Act Together Over Rice Policy Issue
Bangon Pilipinas lone senatorial candidate Eddie Villanueva urged three government agencies to “get their acts together” over disagreements in proposed reforms on the government’s policy on rice self sufficiency.
Villanueva said the Department of Agriculture (DA), National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) and Department of Budget and Management (DBM) should sit down and discuss the repercussions of proposals to lift restrictions on rice imports and abolish the National Food Authority (NFA).
Villanueva noted that any changes to the government’s policy on rice self sufficiency should, first and foremost, consider the plight of the small farmers – many of whom are forced to live in debt because they cannot earn enough to live a decent life.
“The government should get its act together in reforming its rice self-sufficiency policy and work to ensure the protection of the small farmers, those who will be really vulnerable,” Villanueva said.
“These proposed changes to such vital public policy should be thoroughly vetted in public to ensure not only the transparency in the adoption of a new policy but, more importantly, that the possible effects of the policy shift are sufficiently discussed and addressed.”
News reports cited pronouncements from a top DA official assailing the lobbying by NEDA and DBM to lift limits on rice importation and abolish the NFA.
Villanueva said he opposes the lifting restrictions on rice imports, saying this further exposes farmers to unfair competition coming from cheap produce from heavily-subsidized agricultural sectors abroad. He noted that the government is achieving little progress in addressing farmers’ concerns over the high cost of rice production with the continually increasing price of fertilizers, seeds, tools, and other farm inputs.
“The lifting of existing barriers to rice importation goes against our objective of protecting our farmers from unfair global trade. How can our small farmers who receive very little support from government in terms of subsidies as well as technological and infrastructural support compete with more mature agricultural sectors abroad that are heavily subsidized by their governments?” Villanueva said.
Villanueva also said he supports calls to abolish the NFA, saying the agency’s current dual role as trader and regulator has resulted in grossly overpriced deals entered into by the agency.
“We support proposals to abolish the NFA, but we must ensure that safeguards are put in place to protect our small farmers through this transition,” Villanueva said, adding that the mandate to regulate rice purchases be transferred to the DA proper.
Villanueva said the Department of Agriculture (DA), National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) and Department of Budget and Management (DBM) should sit down and discuss the repercussions of proposals to lift restrictions on rice imports and abolish the National Food Authority (NFA).
Villanueva noted that any changes to the government’s policy on rice self sufficiency should, first and foremost, consider the plight of the small farmers – many of whom are forced to live in debt because they cannot earn enough to live a decent life.
“The government should get its act together in reforming its rice self-sufficiency policy and work to ensure the protection of the small farmers, those who will be really vulnerable,” Villanueva said.
“These proposed changes to such vital public policy should be thoroughly vetted in public to ensure not only the transparency in the adoption of a new policy but, more importantly, that the possible effects of the policy shift are sufficiently discussed and addressed.”
News reports cited pronouncements from a top DA official assailing the lobbying by NEDA and DBM to lift limits on rice importation and abolish the NFA.
Villanueva said he opposes the lifting restrictions on rice imports, saying this further exposes farmers to unfair competition coming from cheap produce from heavily-subsidized agricultural sectors abroad. He noted that the government is achieving little progress in addressing farmers’ concerns over the high cost of rice production with the continually increasing price of fertilizers, seeds, tools, and other farm inputs.
“The lifting of existing barriers to rice importation goes against our objective of protecting our farmers from unfair global trade. How can our small farmers who receive very little support from government in terms of subsidies as well as technological and infrastructural support compete with more mature agricultural sectors abroad that are heavily subsidized by their governments?” Villanueva said.
Villanueva also said he supports calls to abolish the NFA, saying the agency’s current dual role as trader and regulator has resulted in grossly overpriced deals entered into by the agency.
“We support proposals to abolish the NFA, but we must ensure that safeguards are put in place to protect our small farmers through this transition,” Villanueva said, adding that the mandate to regulate rice purchases be transferred to the DA proper.
Sunday, March 3, 2013
Bro. Eddie Confirms 'Unwritten Covenant' With Hagedorn
Bangon Pilipinas lone senatorial candidate Eddie Villanueva on Sunday confirmed an “unwritten covenant” between him and fellow independent senatorial candidate Edward Hagedorn.
Villanueva, who visited Palawan over the weekend, said the alliance was discussed during a lunch meeting with Hagedorn in Puerto Princesa on Saturday.
As part of the understanding, Villanueva said he and Hagedorn will be jointly conducting certain provincial campaign sorties. Both camps have agreed to schedule a joint visit in Davao and Bulacan.
“Yes, Mayor Hagedorn and I have an unwritten covenant to support each other’s senatorial campaign,” Villanueva said. “Mayor Hagedorn is a long-time friend and shares, in principle, my belief that no one should be left out of the country’s economic growth which sits at the core of my advocacy of ‘politika at ekonomiyang sagigilid.’”
Villanueva kicked off his visit in Puerto Princesa with a courtesy call to Hagedorn on Saturday. This was followed by a meeting with board member Chicoy Alvarez who vowed to support Villanueva’s bid, and later a dialogue with multi-sectoral groups in the city where he discussed his platform which he refers to as the 3Es – Ekonomiyang Agresibo’t Walang Napag-iiwanan, Edukasyon na Napapanahon, at Entre-Pinoy na Masang Pilipino ang Nangunguna at Nakikinabang.
Initially planned only for Saturday, Villanueva extended his visit to Puerto Princesa upon the invitation of Hagedorn to join residents in the celebration of the Balayong Festival.
Villanueva also joined Hagedorn on the mayor’s float during the parade.
The festival – which marks the city’s founding anniversary – was highlighted by balayong tree-planting activity, street dancing and colorful floral parade depicting the Palawan Cherry Blossoms from which the festival’s name was derived from.
“The impressive display of colors and tradition during the Balayong Festival really reflects the city’s unique culture and its people’s hospitality and friendly outlook,” Villanueva said.
“We came here ready to meet the city’s residents and answer their questions but we were treated to a lot more than what we expected. And it made my visit to the city a lot more memorable,” he added. “I’ve always treated Palawan as my second home.”
Since the start of the campaign period, Villanueva has visited various provinces to bring his “politika at ekonomiyang sagigilid” to local leaders and residents which, he said, is the best way where he can emphasize his advocacy.
Villanueva uses “sagigilid” to collectively describe modern-day marginalized Filipinos that include farmers and fisherfolks forced to live in debt because they cannot earn enough to live a decent life, professionals doing menial work overseas to earn a living for their family, and poor families living in inhospitable areas in the margins of cities.
Villanueva, who visited Palawan over the weekend, said the alliance was discussed during a lunch meeting with Hagedorn in Puerto Princesa on Saturday.
As part of the understanding, Villanueva said he and Hagedorn will be jointly conducting certain provincial campaign sorties. Both camps have agreed to schedule a joint visit in Davao and Bulacan.
“Yes, Mayor Hagedorn and I have an unwritten covenant to support each other’s senatorial campaign,” Villanueva said. “Mayor Hagedorn is a long-time friend and shares, in principle, my belief that no one should be left out of the country’s economic growth which sits at the core of my advocacy of ‘politika at ekonomiyang sagigilid.’”
Villanueva kicked off his visit in Puerto Princesa with a courtesy call to Hagedorn on Saturday. This was followed by a meeting with board member Chicoy Alvarez who vowed to support Villanueva’s bid, and later a dialogue with multi-sectoral groups in the city where he discussed his platform which he refers to as the 3Es – Ekonomiyang Agresibo’t Walang Napag-iiwanan, Edukasyon na Napapanahon, at Entre-Pinoy na Masang Pilipino ang Nangunguna at Nakikinabang.
Initially planned only for Saturday, Villanueva extended his visit to Puerto Princesa upon the invitation of Hagedorn to join residents in the celebration of the Balayong Festival.
Villanueva also joined Hagedorn on the mayor’s float during the parade.
The festival – which marks the city’s founding anniversary – was highlighted by balayong tree-planting activity, street dancing and colorful floral parade depicting the Palawan Cherry Blossoms from which the festival’s name was derived from.
“The impressive display of colors and tradition during the Balayong Festival really reflects the city’s unique culture and its people’s hospitality and friendly outlook,” Villanueva said.
“We came here ready to meet the city’s residents and answer their questions but we were treated to a lot more than what we expected. And it made my visit to the city a lot more memorable,” he added. “I’ve always treated Palawan as my second home.”
Since the start of the campaign period, Villanueva has visited various provinces to bring his “politika at ekonomiyang sagigilid” to local leaders and residents which, he said, is the best way where he can emphasize his advocacy.
Villanueva uses “sagigilid” to collectively describe modern-day marginalized Filipinos that include farmers and fisherfolks forced to live in debt because they cannot earn enough to live a decent life, professionals doing menial work overseas to earn a living for their family, and poor families living in inhospitable areas in the margins of cities.
Friday, March 1, 2013
Bro. Eddie Urges Palace: Appoint Martial Law Victim To Head Claims Board
Following the signing of a law recognizing abuses committed during the Martial Law years and compensating its victims, Bro. Eddie Villanueva on Friday called on President Benigno Simeon Aquino III to appoint a Martial Law victim to head the Human Rights Victims’ Claims Board.
This, as he urged the administration to immediately finalize the membership of the Claims Board and officially convene the panel to sustain the momentum started by the passage of the Human Rights Victims Reparation and Recognition Act of 2013.Villanueva said appointing a Martial Law victim to head the nine-member Human Rights Victims’ Claims Board will ensure that the body stays true to its mandate.
“Appointing a Martial Law victim to head the Claims Board will provide an assurance to fellow Filipinos who suffered during the Marcos dictatorship that they will receive the recognition and compensation that they deserve,” said Villanueva, himself a Martial Law victim jailed twice for opposing the Marcos regime.
“A Martial Law victim has a deeper understanding of what it truly means to be a victim and how much they and their families had to suffer because of the atrocities during the Marcos regime.”
President Aquino signed the law on Feb. 25 to highlight the EDSA People Power revolution anniversary celebration.
Under the law, the nine-member Human Rights Victims’ Claims Board is responsible for drafting the law’s implementing rules and regulations (IRR) as well as evaluating and processing the applications for the compensations due to the victims.
According to Villanueva, the administration should waste no time in completing appointments to the Claims Board and target to convene the panel by March to fast-track the finalization of the law’s IRR and pave the way for the implementation of measures that will recognize and compensate those who suffered under the Marcosian regime.
“The President should appoint all the members by next month so the Board can get to work immediately. We should not waste any time to right the wrongs of the past,” said Villanueva.
“They have suffered tremendously during the Marcos regime, and they have waited long enough for the day when the government will officially recognize the abuses committed by the state during the Martial Law years and compensate those who were made to suffer various forms of abuse. We should not make them wait a minute longer.”
Villanueva also encouraged Martial Law human rights victims to band together and reach out to fellow victims and their families to ensure that majority, if not all, of those whose rights were violated during Martial Law are given the much-awaited recognition and compensation.
“Fellow Martial Law victims and our families have long fought for the government’s recognition of the abuses committed during those dark years in our history, as well as the just reparation for its victims. Let us continue this fight to see the successful end to our struggle to find justice to those wronged during the Martial Law years,” Villanueva said.
This, as he urged the administration to immediately finalize the membership of the Claims Board and officially convene the panel to sustain the momentum started by the passage of the Human Rights Victims Reparation and Recognition Act of 2013.Villanueva said appointing a Martial Law victim to head the nine-member Human Rights Victims’ Claims Board will ensure that the body stays true to its mandate.
“Appointing a Martial Law victim to head the Claims Board will provide an assurance to fellow Filipinos who suffered during the Marcos dictatorship that they will receive the recognition and compensation that they deserve,” said Villanueva, himself a Martial Law victim jailed twice for opposing the Marcos regime.
“A Martial Law victim has a deeper understanding of what it truly means to be a victim and how much they and their families had to suffer because of the atrocities during the Marcos regime.”
President Aquino signed the law on Feb. 25 to highlight the EDSA People Power revolution anniversary celebration.
Under the law, the nine-member Human Rights Victims’ Claims Board is responsible for drafting the law’s implementing rules and regulations (IRR) as well as evaluating and processing the applications for the compensations due to the victims.
According to Villanueva, the administration should waste no time in completing appointments to the Claims Board and target to convene the panel by March to fast-track the finalization of the law’s IRR and pave the way for the implementation of measures that will recognize and compensate those who suffered under the Marcosian regime.
“The President should appoint all the members by next month so the Board can get to work immediately. We should not waste any time to right the wrongs of the past,” said Villanueva.
“They have suffered tremendously during the Marcos regime, and they have waited long enough for the day when the government will officially recognize the abuses committed by the state during the Martial Law years and compensate those who were made to suffer various forms of abuse. We should not make them wait a minute longer.”
Villanueva also encouraged Martial Law human rights victims to band together and reach out to fellow victims and their families to ensure that majority, if not all, of those whose rights were violated during Martial Law are given the much-awaited recognition and compensation.
“Fellow Martial Law victims and our families have long fought for the government’s recognition of the abuses committed during those dark years in our history, as well as the just reparation for its victims. Let us continue this fight to see the successful end to our struggle to find justice to those wronged during the Martial Law years,” Villanueva said.
Thursday, February 28, 2013
ENSURE PROTECTION OF PINOYS VS. POSSIBLE TIGHTENING OF IMMIGRATION, EMPLOYMENT RULES IN MALAYSIA
Bro. Eddie Villanueva on Thursday urged Malacañang to prepare measures that will ensure the protection of Filipinos living and working in Malaysia, in anticipation of a possible tightening of immigration and employment rules there.
Villanueva said Philippine authorities should be pro-active and should already be prepared to provide assistance to Filipinos in Malaysia, many of whom are fearing possible harassment, layoffs, and even deportation, should the Malaysian government tighten its regulations following the standoff in Sabah.
He said the Philippine embassy and overseas labor office in Malaysia should beef up their readiness to provide advisory services, legal and logistical assistance to Filipinos who may be affected by a possible tightening of such rules.
“With the occupation of a village in Lahad Datu by a group of Filipinos claiming ownership of Sabah, the possibility of the Malaysian government cracking down on Filipinos, especially those who lack the necessary travel and working documents not only in Sabah but throughout Malaysia cannot be discounted,” Villanueva said.
“The DFA should anticipate this possible eventuality and prepare to provide advisory services, as well as legal and logistical assistance to our fellow Filipinos living and working there.”
In particular, both the Foreign Affairs and Labor departments should deploy more officials and personnel to Malaysia to increase their respective capacities to accommodate requests for assistance and complaints from Filipinos there.
Back home, Villanueva said the government should create jobs and provide investment support and livelihood opportunities to help integrate returning overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) into mainstream society.
Vulnerability of government policy
“The fear of many Filipinos now living and working in Malaysia that they will lose their jobs or will be sent home only shows the vulnerability of having a government policy that encourages and trains our workforce to find work abroad,” Villanueva said.
“This situation only highlights the need for the government to not only undertake programs that will ensure that the basic rights of our OFWs are protected but, more importantly, to remove the necessity for Filipinos to leave home in search for good-paying jobs.”
Villanueva, whose senatorial campaign is centered on championing the causes of the “sagigilid” or the marginalized sectors in society which includes Filipino professionals and workers who are forced to leave their families to find work abroad, said the filing of legislation that will institute mechanisms that will serve to protect Filipinos from threats of abuse and violence while working abroad, programs that will prepare the local environment for the eventual return of OFWs to the country.
Villanueva said Philippine authorities should be pro-active and should already be prepared to provide assistance to Filipinos in Malaysia, many of whom are fearing possible harassment, layoffs, and even deportation, should the Malaysian government tighten its regulations following the standoff in Sabah.
He said the Philippine embassy and overseas labor office in Malaysia should beef up their readiness to provide advisory services, legal and logistical assistance to Filipinos who may be affected by a possible tightening of such rules.
“With the occupation of a village in Lahad Datu by a group of Filipinos claiming ownership of Sabah, the possibility of the Malaysian government cracking down on Filipinos, especially those who lack the necessary travel and working documents not only in Sabah but throughout Malaysia cannot be discounted,” Villanueva said.
“The DFA should anticipate this possible eventuality and prepare to provide advisory services, as well as legal and logistical assistance to our fellow Filipinos living and working there.”
In particular, both the Foreign Affairs and Labor departments should deploy more officials and personnel to Malaysia to increase their respective capacities to accommodate requests for assistance and complaints from Filipinos there.
Back home, Villanueva said the government should create jobs and provide investment support and livelihood opportunities to help integrate returning overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) into mainstream society.
Vulnerability of government policy
“The fear of many Filipinos now living and working in Malaysia that they will lose their jobs or will be sent home only shows the vulnerability of having a government policy that encourages and trains our workforce to find work abroad,” Villanueva said.
“This situation only highlights the need for the government to not only undertake programs that will ensure that the basic rights of our OFWs are protected but, more importantly, to remove the necessity for Filipinos to leave home in search for good-paying jobs.”
Villanueva, whose senatorial campaign is centered on championing the causes of the “sagigilid” or the marginalized sectors in society which includes Filipino professionals and workers who are forced to leave their families to find work abroad, said the filing of legislation that will institute mechanisms that will serve to protect Filipinos from threats of abuse and violence while working abroad, programs that will prepare the local environment for the eventual return of OFWs to the country.
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
Bro. Eddie Hits DSWD Chief Over Treatment of Typhoon Pablo Victims
Bro. Eddie on Wednesday criticized the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) for its failure to quickly and efficiently distribute relief goods to communities hit by Typhoon Pablo that led a group of typhoon victims to barge into and cart away sacks of relief goods, rice and noodles from a social welfare office in Davao.
Villanueva said instead of threatening to press legal charges against Typhoon Pablo victims and their leaders, DSWD Sec. Dinky Soliman should examine the department’s distribution chain to determine the cause of delays in the distribution of goods to affected communities.
He said that while he does not condone the manner by which the group of typhoon victims took relief goods from the DSWD office, Villanueva said that the desperation behind the group’s action showed a deep discontent at the failure of the government to help alleviate their plight especially after the storm ravaged their communities.
“We should understand that these typhoon victims may have lost loved ones, their homes, and their sources of livelihood because of the typhoon. Many of them have been getting by for months with very little food for themselves and for their families because of the failure ofthe DSWD to perform its mandate and provide relief to these people,” Villanueva said.
“Given the relative comforts that she enjoys, Sec. Soliman should take the higher moral ground and not act impulsively on this matter. Instead, she should take a serious look at why her department is failing in its mandate for these typhoon victims.
”Villanueva said he found “unbelievable” Sec. Soliman’s pronouncement that the distribution of relief goods to Typhoon Pablo victims was delayed due to a local non-government organization’s failure to provide the DSWD a list of specific areas where relief efforts should be conducted.
“I could not understand DSWD’s excuse that the distribution of relief goods to Typhoon Pablo victims has been delayed over some problems with a local organization in the listing of areas where relief efforts should be conducted… More than two months have passed since the typhoon hit and the government is still sitting down waiting for a list,” Villanueva said.
Monday, February 25, 2013
Make A Unilateral Declaration Of Peace
“Its time for peace. Lets work for peace,” is how Bro. Eddie Villanueva wants the 27th year of EDSA remembered. “EDSA is our cornerstone as a nation, let it be our inspiration to work for long lasting peace,” stated Villanueva. Villanueva is the lone candidate of Bangon Pilipinas in the Senate for May 2013. He calls on the Aquino government to unilaterally declare peace with the National Democratic Front (NDF) instead of again pursuing talks with them. “Let us be peace activists, it is high time government makes a unilateral declaration and end decades of strife,” added Villanueva.
“Nobody should be jailed because of communist ideas. Let them have it but certainly when anyone commits illegal acts such as killing, extorting, arson and others, they should be dealt with by the arm of the law,” pointed Villanueva.
Villanueva further elaborated that “in this 21st Century, we should adjust to its paradigms. Peace is the only way to go. We improve the marginalized provinces and communities if there is peace and we bring in investors because there is peace. With investors come jobs and with jobs, we give every Filipino the wherewithal to have a decent home, three nutritious meals and capability to send their kids to school. A unilateral declaration is the only way to go.”
Villanueva was jailed twice during the Martial law years as a student activist. He became a televangelist while pursuing a land grabbing syndicate in Bulacan in the 70s. Villanueva’s sagigilid platform seeks to empower and engaged the marginalized Filipinos and ensure that the growth the country is experiencing will be felt at the countryside.
President Benigno Aquino III has stated that his government is keen on resuming peace talks with the communist rebels. Norway has been brokering negotiations between the Philippines and communist rebels.
“Nobody should be jailed because of communist ideas. Let them have it but certainly when anyone commits illegal acts such as killing, extorting, arson and others, they should be dealt with by the arm of the law,” pointed Villanueva.
Villanueva further elaborated that “in this 21st Century, we should adjust to its paradigms. Peace is the only way to go. We improve the marginalized provinces and communities if there is peace and we bring in investors because there is peace. With investors come jobs and with jobs, we give every Filipino the wherewithal to have a decent home, three nutritious meals and capability to send their kids to school. A unilateral declaration is the only way to go.”
Villanueva was jailed twice during the Martial law years as a student activist. He became a televangelist while pursuing a land grabbing syndicate in Bulacan in the 70s. Villanueva’s sagigilid platform seeks to empower and engaged the marginalized Filipinos and ensure that the growth the country is experiencing will be felt at the countryside.
President Benigno Aquino III has stated that his government is keen on resuming peace talks with the communist rebels. Norway has been brokering negotiations between the Philippines and communist rebels.
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Bro. Eddie Leads Ecumenical Prayer for Honest, Orderly and Peaceful Elections
Living up to his pledge to act as peacemaker, Bro. Eddie Villanueva on Monday, February 18, spearheaded an ecumenical prayer for honest, orderly and peaceful elections (HOPE).
Former Senate President Ernesto Maceda of the United Nationalist Alliance and Senator Allan Peter Cayetano of the Liberal Party Coalition attended the event.
Villanueva, who is running for the Senate under the Bangon Pilipinas party, urged everyone running for a position in the May elections to momentarily set aside political differences and unite for a common cause: HOPE.
Participants of the event were urged to abide by and push for the implementation of the HOPE Manifesto which was read during the event at Club Filipino in San Juan City.
“It’s important to show the public that we are all committed in safeguarding the elections from any possible fraud,” Villanueva said. “Having HOPE will help bring back the faith of Filipinos in our electoral system, and ensure that the true voice of the people is heard.
”Representatives of various faith groups such as Philippine Council of Evangelical Churches, Baptist Group, Fourth Watch, Interfaith Global, Seventh Day Adventist and Islam said a prayer for HOPE during the event.
Villanueva, founder of the Jesus Is Lord Movement, launched his campaign for a Senate seat in his home province of Bulacan on February 12 as he vowed to be the voice of the “*sagigilid*”.
Villanueva uses “*sagigilid*” to collectively describe modern-day marginalized Filipinos that include farmers and fisherfolks forced to live in debt because they cannot earn enough to live a decent life, professionals doing menial work overseas to earn a living for their family,and poor families living in inhospitable areas in the margins of cities.
During a kick off rally at the Bulacan Capitol gymnasium, the 66-year-old Bocaue native urged his fellow Bulakeños and the rest of the country to support his platform centered on 3Es – Ekonomiyang Agresibo’t Walang Napag-iiwanan, Edukasyon na Napapanahon, at Entre-Pinoy na Masang Pilipino ang Nangunguna at Nakikinabang – which focuses on the importance of inclusive growth, especially for the “*sagigilid*”.
Villanueva, when he filed his candidacy in December 2012, vowed to act as peacemaker in the Senate should he win. He said he will persuade disagreeing senators to set aside their differences and unite so the chamber can hasten the legislation of laws urgently needed to further the country’s development.
“Right now, we see how differences in opinion have delayed so many crucial laws. It is sad how some issues have been focused on petty quarrels instead of exercising magnanimity for the sake of the greater good of our people, especially the *sagigilid*,” Villanueva said.
Former Senate President Ernesto Maceda of the United Nationalist Alliance and Senator Allan Peter Cayetano of the Liberal Party Coalition attended the event.
Villanueva, who is running for the Senate under the Bangon Pilipinas party, urged everyone running for a position in the May elections to momentarily set aside political differences and unite for a common cause: HOPE.
Participants of the event were urged to abide by and push for the implementation of the HOPE Manifesto which was read during the event at Club Filipino in San Juan City.
“It’s important to show the public that we are all committed in safeguarding the elections from any possible fraud,” Villanueva said. “Having HOPE will help bring back the faith of Filipinos in our electoral system, and ensure that the true voice of the people is heard.
”Representatives of various faith groups such as Philippine Council of Evangelical Churches, Baptist Group, Fourth Watch, Interfaith Global, Seventh Day Adventist and Islam said a prayer for HOPE during the event.
Villanueva, founder of the Jesus Is Lord Movement, launched his campaign for a Senate seat in his home province of Bulacan on February 12 as he vowed to be the voice of the “*sagigilid*”.
Villanueva uses “*sagigilid*” to collectively describe modern-day marginalized Filipinos that include farmers and fisherfolks forced to live in debt because they cannot earn enough to live a decent life, professionals doing menial work overseas to earn a living for their family,and poor families living in inhospitable areas in the margins of cities.
During a kick off rally at the Bulacan Capitol gymnasium, the 66-year-old Bocaue native urged his fellow Bulakeños and the rest of the country to support his platform centered on 3Es – Ekonomiyang Agresibo’t Walang Napag-iiwanan, Edukasyon na Napapanahon, at Entre-Pinoy na Masang Pilipino ang Nangunguna at Nakikinabang – which focuses on the importance of inclusive growth, especially for the “*sagigilid*”.
Villanueva, when he filed his candidacy in December 2012, vowed to act as peacemaker in the Senate should he win. He said he will persuade disagreeing senators to set aside their differences and unite so the chamber can hasten the legislation of laws urgently needed to further the country’s development.
“Right now, we see how differences in opinion have delayed so many crucial laws. It is sad how some issues have been focused on petty quarrels instead of exercising magnanimity for the sake of the greater good of our people, especially the *sagigilid*,” Villanueva said.
Monday, February 11, 2013
Campaign Launch in Bulacan and OnLine
In what appears to be a conscious effort of Bulakeños to carry their kababayan in the May elections, Bangon Pilipinas candidate Bro. Eddie Villanueva is set to launch his Senate bid in the historical grounds of Malolos, Bulacan with various local public leaders – crossing party lines – set to attend the event.
"These leaders may be from opposing camps but all of us our tied by our love for Bulacan. They stand ten feet tall in solidarity to support my attempt to capture a seat in the Senate. The future of Bulacan is beyond politics," Bro. Eddie said.Carrying the agenda of Bulacan in the Senate, Bro. Eddie's main platform has been summarized in his popular 3Es: Ekonomiyang agresibo't walang napag-iiwanan; Edukasyon na napapanahon; Entrepinoy na masang Pilipino ang nagunguna at nakikinabang.
Villanueva has developed a full platform to address other major issues relating to the politics of the fringes. In various media fora, he has discussed the need to focus on the “sagigilid” or fringes. Sagigilid refers to the marginalized provinces and municipalities as well as the marginalized sectors in the country."Our economy is growing because of ‘tuwid na daan’, but let us ensure there is no Filipino left behind," noted Villanueva.
Villanueva also noted the importance of moral leadership in politics. “We need moral leadership. The bedrock of good economics is good politics."The Malolos kick off will be streamed live so that the various groups supporting Villanueva can join and watch the activities. Other supporters in key cities, including Baguio, Iloilo and Cagayan de Oro, will also conduct their respective kick-off events.
Online Kick Off
Aside from launching his campaign in Bulacan, Villanueva is also set to do an online kick off on February 12, from 7pm to 9 pm, under his Ask Bro. Eddie event teaser.
Ask Bro. Eddie is an online event where Villanueva and his youth volunteers will be on deck to answer questions from netizens. Those interested to join can log on at: www.broeddie.ph/askme.
Villanueva said the online Q&A event was conceptualized by his youth volunteers who are helping him spread the word about his platform and advocacies.
"If I will be successful in this run, we will need the support of the youth,” Bro. Eddie said. “We cannot start planting the seeds of transformative politics without the youth."
12 February 2013
Bro. Eddie launches campaign, vows to carry Bulacan agenda and politics of fringes in Senate
Launching his campaign for a Senate seat in the upcoming elections, Bro. Eddie Villanueva rallied his fellow Bulaqueños to throw their support behind his platform centered on inclusive growth that will benefit the country’s underserved, under-represented, and poor sectors.
During a kick-off rally held in his home province of Bulacan, Villanueva unveiled the 3Es: Ekonomiyang Agresibo’t Walang Napag-iiwanan, sa Edukasyon na Napapanahon, at sa Entre-Pinoy na Masang Pilipino ang Nangunguna at Nakikinabang – which he said represents a full political platform developed to address other major issues relating to the country’s “sagigilid”.
Villanueva used “sagigilid” to refer to the marginalized provinces and municipalities, as well the marginalized sectors in the country.“Ngayong umaga, napag-buklod-buklod at napag-tipon natin ang lahat na naniniwala sa ating laban upang itaguyod ang tunay esensiya ng kaunlaran: kaunlaran na kasama ang lahat, lalo na ang mga sagigilid,” Villanueva said.
“Sa pamamagitan ng ating mga programa para sa Ekonomiyang Agresibo’t Walang Napag-iiwanan, sa Edukasyon na Napapanahon, at sa Entre-Pinoy na Masang Pilipino ang Nangunguna at Nakikinabang ay sama-sama nating matatamasa ang kaginhawaan... Buong pagpapakumbaba kong hinihingi ang inyong tulong sa laban na ito. Walang iwanan sa umaangat na bayan.
”Villanueva’s campaign launch gathered present and former political leaders in Bulacan – including opposing political figures – who signed a manifesto of support for Villanueva’s candidacy in an unprecedented display of unity in the province.
Villanueva – son of Olympian and a decorated World War II officer Joaquin Villanueva and Maria Cruz, a local beautician – was born and raised in Bocaue, Bulacan. His wife Adoracion "Dory" Jose also hails from the same town.
The event was streamed live to allow Villanueva’s supporters in Baguio, Iloilo, Cagayan de Oro and Zamboanga to join and watch the activities. An online campaign kick-off was also scheduled later in the day.
If elected to the Senate, Villanueva committed to serve as the voice of the “sagigilid” and will continue to carry the Bulacan agenda to ensure that the country’s marginalized sectors and Bulacan as a province will not be left out of the country’s economic achievements.This, as he underscored the need for the country to work as a team and set its sights on larger, longer-term national goals.
“Bukod sa pagiging boses ng mga sagigilid, tayo ang tatayong boses ng ating dakilang lalawigan sa Senado. Kung palarin tayong makapasok sa Senado ay maluwang ang ating pinto para ipaglaban ang interes ng Bulakenyo,” Villanueva said.
“Sa ating mahal na lalawigan, sabay-sabay tayong uunlad. Ika-kampyon natin ang interes ng bawat barangay, bayan, at siyudad ng ating mahal na lalawigan upang lalong mapaunlad ang buhay ng bawat isang Bulakenyo. Isusulong natin ang interes ng ating mahal na lalawigan, na sa pag-unlad ng buong bansa ay hindi tayo naiiwan. Sabay-sabay tayong aangat.
”Villanueva is vying for a Senate seat under the Bangon Pilipinas Party.
"These leaders may be from opposing camps but all of us our tied by our love for Bulacan. They stand ten feet tall in solidarity to support my attempt to capture a seat in the Senate. The future of Bulacan is beyond politics," Bro. Eddie said.Carrying the agenda of Bulacan in the Senate, Bro. Eddie's main platform has been summarized in his popular 3Es: Ekonomiyang agresibo't walang napag-iiwanan; Edukasyon na napapanahon; Entrepinoy na masang Pilipino ang nagunguna at nakikinabang.
Villanueva has developed a full platform to address other major issues relating to the politics of the fringes. In various media fora, he has discussed the need to focus on the “sagigilid” or fringes. Sagigilid refers to the marginalized provinces and municipalities as well as the marginalized sectors in the country."Our economy is growing because of ‘tuwid na daan’, but let us ensure there is no Filipino left behind," noted Villanueva.
Villanueva also noted the importance of moral leadership in politics. “We need moral leadership. The bedrock of good economics is good politics."The Malolos kick off will be streamed live so that the various groups supporting Villanueva can join and watch the activities. Other supporters in key cities, including Baguio, Iloilo and Cagayan de Oro, will also conduct their respective kick-off events.
Online Kick Off
Aside from launching his campaign in Bulacan, Villanueva is also set to do an online kick off on February 12, from 7pm to 9 pm, under his Ask Bro. Eddie event teaser.
Ask Bro. Eddie is an online event where Villanueva and his youth volunteers will be on deck to answer questions from netizens. Those interested to join can log on at: www.broeddie.ph/askme.
Villanueva said the online Q&A event was conceptualized by his youth volunteers who are helping him spread the word about his platform and advocacies.
"If I will be successful in this run, we will need the support of the youth,” Bro. Eddie said. “We cannot start planting the seeds of transformative politics without the youth."
12 February 2013
Bro. Eddie launches campaign, vows to carry Bulacan agenda and politics of fringes in Senate
Launching his campaign for a Senate seat in the upcoming elections, Bro. Eddie Villanueva rallied his fellow Bulaqueños to throw their support behind his platform centered on inclusive growth that will benefit the country’s underserved, under-represented, and poor sectors.
During a kick-off rally held in his home province of Bulacan, Villanueva unveiled the 3Es: Ekonomiyang Agresibo’t Walang Napag-iiwanan, sa Edukasyon na Napapanahon, at sa Entre-Pinoy na Masang Pilipino ang Nangunguna at Nakikinabang – which he said represents a full political platform developed to address other major issues relating to the country’s “sagigilid”.
Villanueva used “sagigilid” to refer to the marginalized provinces and municipalities, as well the marginalized sectors in the country.“Ngayong umaga, napag-buklod-buklod at napag-tipon natin ang lahat na naniniwala sa ating laban upang itaguyod ang tunay esensiya ng kaunlaran: kaunlaran na kasama ang lahat, lalo na ang mga sagigilid,” Villanueva said.
“Sa pamamagitan ng ating mga programa para sa Ekonomiyang Agresibo’t Walang Napag-iiwanan, sa Edukasyon na Napapanahon, at sa Entre-Pinoy na Masang Pilipino ang Nangunguna at Nakikinabang ay sama-sama nating matatamasa ang kaginhawaan... Buong pagpapakumbaba kong hinihingi ang inyong tulong sa laban na ito. Walang iwanan sa umaangat na bayan.
”Villanueva’s campaign launch gathered present and former political leaders in Bulacan – including opposing political figures – who signed a manifesto of support for Villanueva’s candidacy in an unprecedented display of unity in the province.
Villanueva – son of Olympian and a decorated World War II officer Joaquin Villanueva and Maria Cruz, a local beautician – was born and raised in Bocaue, Bulacan. His wife Adoracion "Dory" Jose also hails from the same town.
The event was streamed live to allow Villanueva’s supporters in Baguio, Iloilo, Cagayan de Oro and Zamboanga to join and watch the activities. An online campaign kick-off was also scheduled later in the day.
If elected to the Senate, Villanueva committed to serve as the voice of the “sagigilid” and will continue to carry the Bulacan agenda to ensure that the country’s marginalized sectors and Bulacan as a province will not be left out of the country’s economic achievements.This, as he underscored the need for the country to work as a team and set its sights on larger, longer-term national goals.
“Bukod sa pagiging boses ng mga sagigilid, tayo ang tatayong boses ng ating dakilang lalawigan sa Senado. Kung palarin tayong makapasok sa Senado ay maluwang ang ating pinto para ipaglaban ang interes ng Bulakenyo,” Villanueva said.
“Sa ating mahal na lalawigan, sabay-sabay tayong uunlad. Ika-kampyon natin ang interes ng bawat barangay, bayan, at siyudad ng ating mahal na lalawigan upang lalong mapaunlad ang buhay ng bawat isang Bulakenyo. Isusulong natin ang interes ng ating mahal na lalawigan, na sa pag-unlad ng buong bansa ay hindi tayo naiiwan. Sabay-sabay tayong aangat.
”Villanueva is vying for a Senate seat under the Bangon Pilipinas Party.
Tuesday, February 5, 2013
Bro. Eddie Urges Government to Tap LGU's in Investment Planning
Bro. Eddie Villanueva on 5 February 2013 urged the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to involve local government units (LGUs) in national investment planning initiatives to build industries most suited for a particular province or region where resources are most available.
Villanueva said a “bottom-up strategy” will allow the government to tap into the LGUs’ knowledge base in terms of local assets, strengths, and opportunities to improve national investment planning.
“The government should adopt as its policy the complete involvement of the local government units in national investment planning to speed up the pace and spread out the coverage of economic development,” Villanueva said.
“This bottom-up approach to investment planning will also allow the government to tap into a rich database of knowledge resources that our LGUs posses.
”Villanueva’s pronouncement came in the heels of a week-long visit by an American trade mission to Manila from January 23-25 to promote greater trade and investment between the United States and the Philippines.
The American trade mission included representatives from the US Education Finance Group, Citigroup, Chevron, Coca Cola, and General Electric. Also, JP Morgan Chase, Procter & Gamble, Peregrine Development International, CV Starr & Co., McLarty & Associates, Federal Express and Spence & Co.
According to Villanueva, the involvement of LGUs in investment planning will allow DTI to identify new potential areas of growth and spread out development to the countryside.
As such, this approach has the potential of creating sustainable and thriving local industries that create jobs and related businesses, and help reverse labor migration to urban areas.
“Building industries in our regions and not only concentrating on urban areas is one way for government to achieve inclusive growth by way of evenly creating employment and business opportunities both in urban and rural areas,” Villanueva said.
“This is also a sustainable investment model that taps into the locally-available resources as well as the inherent strengths of our provinces and regions.”
Villanueva said a “bottom-up strategy” will allow the government to tap into the LGUs’ knowledge base in terms of local assets, strengths, and opportunities to improve national investment planning.
“The government should adopt as its policy the complete involvement of the local government units in national investment planning to speed up the pace and spread out the coverage of economic development,” Villanueva said.
“This bottom-up approach to investment planning will also allow the government to tap into a rich database of knowledge resources that our LGUs posses.
”Villanueva’s pronouncement came in the heels of a week-long visit by an American trade mission to Manila from January 23-25 to promote greater trade and investment between the United States and the Philippines.
The American trade mission included representatives from the US Education Finance Group, Citigroup, Chevron, Coca Cola, and General Electric. Also, JP Morgan Chase, Procter & Gamble, Peregrine Development International, CV Starr & Co., McLarty & Associates, Federal Express and Spence & Co.
According to Villanueva, the involvement of LGUs in investment planning will allow DTI to identify new potential areas of growth and spread out development to the countryside.
As such, this approach has the potential of creating sustainable and thriving local industries that create jobs and related businesses, and help reverse labor migration to urban areas.
“Building industries in our regions and not only concentrating on urban areas is one way for government to achieve inclusive growth by way of evenly creating employment and business opportunities both in urban and rural areas,” Villanueva said.
“This is also a sustainable investment model that taps into the locally-available resources as well as the inherent strengths of our provinces and regions.”
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)