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.
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