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November 8, 1999, ABS-CBN, 4:27 PM, Rep. Rodolfo Fariñas in gun-totting case,
November 15, 1999, ABS-CBN, 5:35 PM, Mayor Abines' retaliation feared,
November 15, 1999, ABS-CBN, 4:45 PM, Lacson appointed new PNP chief,
November 15, 1999, ABS-CBN, 4:24 PM, Cebu juvenile killer's lawyers ask for transfer to DSWD,
November 18, 1999, ABS-CBN, 7:33 PM, Death penalty for 2 cops in killing SAF member urged,
November 18, 1999, ABS-CBN, 2:45 PM, Lacson cleared of Kuratong Baleleng case,
November 19, 1999, ABS-CBN, 6:42 AM, The MILF are terrorists - Estrada,
November 20, 1999, ABS-CBN, 6:38 PM, Militant labor group calls for general strike,
November 23, 1999, ABS-CBN, 10:36 AM, Erap may be impeached, solons say,
November 23, 1999, ABS-CBN, 9:23 AM, Henry Sy faces Congress probe on SM labor row,
November 23, 1999, ABS-CBN, 8:44 AM, "Tad-tad" anti-communist groups resurrected,
November 24, 1999, ABS-CBN, 4:56 AM, Christians form armed group against MILF,
November 24, 1999, ABS-CBN, 12:00 AM, Desks scam haunts DECS anew,
November 24, 1999, ABS-CBN, 7:47 PM, Chopper unloading food provisions missing,
November 24, 1999, ABS-CBN, 3:21 PM, 232 carnapped vehicles returned,
November 24, 1999, ABS-CBN, 5:18 AM, Parago's kin refutes Mercado statement,
November 24, 1999, ABS-CBN, 5:43 AM, AFP monitors installation of MILF camps in Lanao Del Sur,
November 24, 1999, ABS-CBN, 6:16 AM, Mercado denies political espionage,
November 24, 1999, ABS-CBN, 7:13 AM, Ombudsman to start investigation on Aguiluz,
November 24, 1999, ABS-CBN, 8:07 PM, Salary increase for PNP personnel,
November 24, 1999, ABS-CBN, 11:35 PM, NKI union members demand salary increase,
November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 1:37 AM, Secretary Zamora denies P800M DBP loan,
November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 1:57 AM, 5 WPD cops in hot water,
November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 2:51 AM, P1.142-b DPWH budget anomaly exposed,
November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 3:54 AM, City government denies Ocampo exhumation,
November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 4:52 AM, Wahid to broker peace talks with Salamat,
November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 6:11 AM, Flavier reveals senatorial bets on 2001 elections,
November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 8:02 AM, Another P1B mystery fund discovered,
November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 7:03 AM, No funds, manpower for "political espionage",
November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 6:32 AM, Estrada bullish on RP credit rating,
November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 8:58 AM, Lacson to head task force against squatters,
November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 9:18 AM, Diokno discourages budget cut,
November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 6:51 PM, 2 Cabinet men submit courtesy resignations,
November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 10:13 PM, DENR officials suspended,
November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 10:49 PM, P10,000 reward for 7-Eleven fugitive,
November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 11:06 PM, Ministers say ASEAN still vulnerable,
November 26, 1999, ABS-CBN, 2:27 AM, Attorney shoots Councilor Veloso's house in Sta. Ana,
November 26, 1999, ABS-CBN, 4:22 AM, Estrada to visit Zamboanga this December,
November 26, 1999, ABS-CBN, 4:04 AM, Senate minority questions Lapid suspension,
November 26, 1999, ABS-CBN, 3:33 AM, Mayor Joey Marquez, 5 others face imprisonment,
November 26, 1999, ABS-CBN, 1:38 AM, Army nabs 3 Basilan pirates,
November 26, 1999, ABS-CBN, 2:39 AM, PAF, AFP units to search for missing chopper,
November 26, 1999, ABS-CBN, 3:22 AM, Travel ban and freeze hiring on government agencies,
November 26, 1999, ABS-CBN, 4:30 AM, Taxi driver delivering fake Fundador, nabbed,
November 27, 1999, ABS-CBN, 5:00 PM, Citizen's group wants lottery scheme used for elections,
November 27, 1999, ABS-CBN, 7:44 AM, Sin rejects national ID proposal,
November 27, 1999, ABS-CBN, 7:30 AM, BWRC buys Tan's bingo firm for P63 B,
November 27, 1999, ABS-CBN, 6:44 AM, CATWAP hits Pinay sex traffic in S.Korea,
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November 18, 1999, ABS-CBN, 7:33 PM, Death penalty for 2 cops in killing SAF member urged,
November 26, 1999, ABS-CBN, 3:22 AM, Travel ban and freeze hiring on government agencies,
MANILA, (ABS-CBN) - A possible travel ban and freeze-hiring in all goverment agencies is in the works in light of the perceived budget deficit for year 2000.
According to Press Secretary Rod Reyes, these belt-tightening measures are a virtual guarantee if the senate persists in approving cuts on the proposed P600 billion budget for year 2000.
President Joseph Estrada instructed Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno to set guidelines on which government sectors should be exempted from the travel ban and freeze hiring.
Reyes clarified that foreign trips will only be allowed if travel expenses are shouldered by the organizers or private individuals.
November 24, 1999, ABS-CBN, 5:18 AM, Parago's kin refutes Mercado statement,
November 24, 1999, ABS-CBN, 5:43 AM, AFP monitors installation of MILF camps in Lanao Del Sur,
November 24, 1999, ABS-CBN, 6:16 AM, Mercado denies political espionage,
November 24, 1999, ABS-CBN, 7:13 AM, Ombudsman to start investigation on Aguiluz,
November 24, 1999, ABS-CBN, 8:07 PM, Salary increase for PNP personnel,
November 24, 1999, ABS-CBN, 11:35 PM, NKI union members demand salary increase,
November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 1:37 AM, Secretary Zamora denies P800M DBP loan,
November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 1:57 AM, 5 WPD cops in hot water,
November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 2:51 AM, P1.142-b DPWH budget anomaly exposed,
November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 3:54 AM, City government denies Ocampo exhumation,
November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 4:52 AM, Wahid to broker peace talks with Salamat,
November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 6:11 AM, Flavier reveals senatorial bets on 2001 elections,
November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 8:02 AM, Another P1B mystery fund discovered,
November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 7:03 AM, No funds, manpower for "political espionage",
November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 6:32 AM, Estrada bullish on RP credit rating,
November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 8:58 AM, Lacson to head task force against squatters,
November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 9:18 AM, Diokno discourages budget cut,
November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 6:51 PM, 2 Cabinet men submit courtesy resignations,
November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 10:13 PM, DENR officials suspended,
November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 10:49 PM, P10,000 reward for 7-Eleven fugitive,
November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 11:06 PM, Ministers say ASEAN still vulnerable,
November 26, 1999, ABS-CBN, 2:27 AM, Attorney shoots Councilor Veloso's house in Sta. Ana,
November 26, 1999, ABS-CBN, 4:22 AM, Estrada to visit Zamboanga this December,
November 26, 1999, ABS-CBN, 4:04 AM, Senate minority questions Lapid suspension,
November 26, 1999, ABS-CBN, 3:33 AM, Mayor Joey Marquez, 5 others face imprisonment,
November 26, 1999, ABS-CBN, 1:38 AM, Army nabs 3 Basilan pirates,
November 26, 1999, ABS-CBN, 2:39 AM, PAF, AFP units to search for missing chopper,
November 26, 1999, ABS-CBN, 3:22 AM, Travel ban and freeze hiring on government agencies,
November 26, 1999, ABS-CBN, 4:30 AM, Taxi driver delivering fake Fundador, nabbed,
November 27, 1999, ABS-CBN, 5:00 PM, Citizen's group wants lottery scheme used for elections,
November 27, 1999, ABS-CBN, 7:44 AM, Sin rejects national ID proposal,
November 27, 1999, ABS-CBN, 7:30 AM, BWRC buys Tan's bingo firm for P63 B,
November 27, 1999, ABS-CBN, 6:44 AM, CATWAP hits Pinay sex traffic in S.Korea,
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November 18, 1999, ABS-CBN, 7:33 PM, Death penalty for 2 cops in killing SAF member urged,
MANILA, (ABS-CBN) - President Joseph Estrada instructed government lawyers Thursday to seek the death penalty for two policemen suspected of fatally shooting a fellow cop when they were caught red-handed in their extortion activities Wednesday night.
November 26, 1999, ABS-CBN, 2:39 AM, PAF, AFP units to search for missing chopper,
Defense Sec. Orly Mercado ordered the Philippine Air Force (PAF) and other rescue units of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to help in locating the missing chopper of Sen. Juan Ponce Enrile.
The civilian helicopter of JAKA Corporation was reportedly lost Wednesday afternoon after unloading food provisions in Umiray, Bulacan.
The helicopter, piloted by Capt. Arnel Panopio of the Jaka-Airspan charter services, is believed to be lost between Bgys. Umiray and Macuha, Bulacan.
PAF spokesman Eduardo Oban called off the search-and-rescue operations temporarily Thursday evening because of the inclement weather.
The Chief Executive also commended PO2 Nestor Quindangan who died in the line of duty, and the other officers of the Special Action Force (SAF) who foiled the extortion activities of members of the Traffic Management Group (TMG) in Quezon City.
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November 18, 1999, ABS-CBN, 2:45 PM, Lacson cleared of Kuratong Baleleng case,
November 26, 1999, ABS-CBN, 2:27 AM, Attorney shoots Councilor Veloso's house in Sta. Ana,
Annoyed residents and barangay officials of Kalayaan St., Sta. Ana, Manila, filed a complaint Thursday against fellow resident, Atty. Hermogenes Datuin, after a shooting incident in their area.
According to Brgy. Chairman Conrado Pablo, the suspect complained that loiterers were throwing stones at his window.
However, barangay officials did not find any evidence that such an incident occured.
Angered, the suspect and his two sons started shooting at some residents' houses, including one owned by Councilor Lou Veloso.
The police arrested the suspect but released him later for lack of evidence.
November 26, 1999, ABS-CBN, 4:22 AM, Estrada to visit Zamboanga this December,
ZAMBOANGA CITY, (ABS-CBN)- Although no date has been finalized yet, Zamboanga City is abuzz with preparations for President Estrada's visit slated first week of December.
Mayor Maria Clara Lobregat disclosed plans for the President's itinerary which will include the inaguration of the city's new cathedral as well as a symposium with Zamboanga's one hundred poorest residents, as organized by an urban poor organization.
Estrada will also lead ceremonies that will signal the start of construction for the controversial Quiniput-Licomo-Zamboanga City road.
The visit will be Estrada's second trip to Zamboanga City this year.
November 26, 1999, ABS-CBN, 4:04 AM, Senate minority questions Lapid suspension,
MANILA, (ABS-CBN) - Senate minority leader Teofisto Guingona Jr. accused the administration of using a double standard of justice for suspending erring officials who are affiliated with the Lakas-NUCD.
Guingona said that the government fast-tracked suspensions against Pampanga Governor Lito Lapid and Caloocan Mayor Rey Malonzo because they are close to former president Fidel Ramos.
The senate minority expressed surprise that no action has been taken on officials affiliated with the ruling LAMP party who also have numerous criminal and administrative cases filed against them.
Guingona mentioned the case of DILG secretary Ricardo Puno who was still not suspended after undergoing investigations by both the Sagisag Commission and the Office of the Ombudsman.
November 26, 1999, ABS-CBN, 3:33 AM, Mayor Joey Marquez, 5 others face imprisonment,
PARANAQUE, (ABS-CBN) - For violating the temporary restraining order (TRO) issued by Judge Henry Ricafort, Mayor Joey Marquez, PAGCOR Chief Alice Reyes and five others are facing a possible six-month imprisonment for opening a PAGCOR in Parañaque.
Aside from Marquez and the PAGCOR Chief, other officials facing possible imprisonment are Reynaldo Menorio, PAGCOR President; businessman Eduardo Marcelo , and three Parañaque councilors Jaime Neri, Jun Danzon and Alberto Buenavista.
The court issued the temporary restraining order in response to the motion filed by councilors Rodolfo Punzalan and Derek Paez and the Stand Against Gambling In Paranaque (SAGIP) group.
Councilor Rodolfo Punzalan also appealed to PNP Chief Panfilo Lacson, NCR Director Edgardo Aglipay and Paranaque Police Chief Javier to enforce the TRO.
November 26, 1999, ABS-CBN, 1:38 AM, Army nabs 3 Basilan pirates,
ZAMBOANGA, (ABS-CBN) - Three of the pirates who killed a family of fishermen in Basilan have been captured by military troops based in Sumisip.
Southern Command Major Salih Indanan reported the arrest after military troops of the Philippine Army's Tenth Infantry batallion overwhelmed the pirates in a running gunbattle in the high seas of Basilan.
They were identified as Kapitalte Sasapan, Albani Sasapan and Maulod Namili.
The suspects' motives for the attack have yet to be established.
They are now undergoing tactical interrogation at the detachment of the tenth infantry Battalion.
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November 18, 1999, ABS-CBN, 2:45 PM, Lacson cleared of Kuratong Baleleng case,
Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Panfilo Lacson has been finally cleared in the Kuratong Baleleng rubout case. The Ombudsman did not appeal the Quezon City Regional Trial Court's dismissal of the case. Ombudsman Prosecutor Apostol said the police officer who came out in the open on the "rub-out" of Kuratong members was unwilling to put his statement under oath.
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November 8, 1999, ABS-CBN, 4:27 PM, Rep. Rodolfo Fariñas in gun-totting case,
November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 9:18 AM, Diokno discourages budget cut,
According to Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno, the proposed budget for year 2000 is transparent enough to discourage the Senate Finance Committe from making unnecessary budget cuts.
He pointed out that a proposed budget goes through meticulous study from both the lower house and the senate.
As before, Diokno discouraged any budget cuts that would be counterproductive to the projects of the government as the proposed budget next year is actually lower than last year.
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November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 6:51 PM, 2 Cabinet men submit courtesy resignations,
MANILA, (ABS-CBN) - Two Cabinet officials have heeded the "challenge" of President Estrada for his official family to submit their courtesy resignations by the end of the month.
Secretary Jimmy Policarpio of the Presidential Legislative Liaison Office, who reportedly submitted his courtesy resignation along with his office's performance report Wednesday, will soon be followed by Press Secretary Rodolfo Reyes on Friday.
Reyes proved more dramatic, following reports that he even thanked the President in a formal letter for giving him the opportunity to serve his administration.
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November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 10:13 PM, DENR officials suspended,
MANILA, (ABS-CBN) - Four top officials of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Land Management Bureau have been ordered suspended by Ombudsman Aniano Desierto.
They were identified as former bureau director Miguel Gerochi, Atty. Alberto Recalde, Lito Salgado, and Samson de Leon.
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November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 10:49 PM, P10,000 reward for 7-Eleven fugitive,
MANILA, (ABS-CBN) - A reward of P10,000 awaits anyone who can point to the whereabouts of an escaped suspect in the 7-Eleven robbery-murders last July.
Bureau of Jail Management and penology (BJMP) Director Aquilino Jacob announced the bounty, two days after the escape of Bernardo Ranara.
Ranara was the only successful one of eight suspects who tried to jump a BJMP bus after a court hearing. One was killed, while the rest were captured.
Finance Ministers of the Association of Souteast Asian Nations on Thursday conceded that the ASEAN economy remains vulnerable to external risks, even as it is heading for a recovery in the coming year.
ASEAN minister also recognized that the region continues to be vulnerable, with the possible slowdown of the United States economy and the predicted inability of Japan to recover by next year.
During the second day of the summit held at the Cultural Center of the Philippines complex Finance Secretary Edgardo Espiritu said: "While our own economy looks much healthier compared to a year ago the situation still remains vulnerable and there are risks that need to be addressed if our economy are to experience high sustainable quality growth."
But not all is gloomy.
The ten-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations said that they are hoping ASEAN to regain their rightful place in the global economy.
In a joint statement ASEAN finance ministers said that ASEAN as a whole is expected to grow at an average of 2-3% this year a reversal from the 7% contraction recorded last year.
The finance ministers said they intend to restore ASEAN position as one of the world fastest growing
regions.
To ensure a steady economy, Finance Secretary Edgardo Espiritu said ASEAN governments should aim to balance their fiscal position over the medium term. He said crisis-hit nations should also work for the implementation of financial sector reforms, restructuring and establishment of social safety nets
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November 8, 1999, ABS-CBN, 4:27 PM, Rep. Rodolfo Fariñas in gun-totting case,
A 24-year old hotel employee in Mandaluyong city has filed a complaint against Ilocos Norte Representative Rodolfo Fariñas for alleged poking his gun at him while inside a restaurant last Sunday.
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November 15, 1999, ABS-CBN, 4:45 PM, Lacson appointed new PNP chief,
Parago's family claimed that Parago wrote them a letter denying the military's statements.
Parago is facing eight charges of robbery and murder in Davao and Panabo.
According to Defense Attorney Romeo Capulong, the military has insisted in keeping Parago under custody. This, Capulong stated, is part of the government's propaganda.
For its failure to present Parago for his arraignment, Atty. Capulong is contemplating either a motion against the ISAFP for contempt of court or he may file charges for human rights violations against the same party.
Parago is currently being held at the ISAFP Detention Center.
Meanwhile, militant groups in Davao City warned of possible protest actions until Parago is freed by the military.
This was disclosed by Philippine Independent Church Bishop Felixberto Calang, current head of the KARAPATAN-Davao chapter.
Calang voiced out the groups' disappointment with the government and stated their plans to stage a protest action right in front of the ISAFP building where Parago was initially held in custody.
November 24, 1999, ABS-CBN, 5:43 AM, AFP monitors installation of MILF camps in Lanao Del Sur,
LANAO DEL SUR, (ABS-CBN) - Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff General Angelo Reyes assures that the military will not allow the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) to establish satellite camps in the Lanao provinces.
The MILF is suspected of establishing more camps in Mindanao as additional bargaining chips for their ongoing peace talks with the national government.
Fourth Infantry Division spokesperson Major Johnny Macanas disclosed that Reyes has ordered their division to be vigilant against the MILF's establishments of satellite camps in the Lanao areas.
Reyes arrived in Marawi City Sunday to evaluate the tension between the military and members of the MILF in Calanugas, Lanao del Sur.
Meanwhile, Governor Mahid Mutilan has pledged his full support to the military in their fight against the MILF.
Mutilan has been rumored to be among the MILF's targets for ambush.
Macanas believes the continued MILF offensive operation is meant to divert government troops from discovering satellite camps in Mindanao which will eventually be acknowledged as legitimate camps.
November 24, 1999, ABS-CBN, 7:13 AM, Ombudsman to start investigation on Aguiluz,
MANILA, (ABS-CBN) -- Ombudsman Aniano Desierto is now ready to start investigations on Y2K Commission chairman Amable Aguiluz.
Aguiluz has been hounded by allegations of conflict of interest after he reportedly used his position as chairman of the Y2K Commission to put up Millenium Solutions Corp., a company that sells computer cards designed to solve the Y2K bug. Aguiluz is also reportedly facing 30 estafa cases, all pending at the Makati Regional Trial Court.
He resigned from his post November 19, citingdelicadeza as his leading motivation to spare President Estrada and his own family from controversy.
November 24, 1999, ABS-CBN, 11:35 PM, NKI union members demand salary increase,
QUEZON CITY, (ABS-CBN) - Union members of the National Kidney Institute (NKI) will join other militant groups' protest action to demand for salary increases and amelioration pay.
The NKI Employees Association composed of nurses, medical technologies, and food servers held Wednesday an overnight vigil outside the hospital to demand for their unpaid benefits amounting to P15,000 each.
This includes their 1998 amelioration pay, their centennial bonus, food and emergency allowances.
Joey Espanilo, president of the union said the group is one with the demands of other government hospital workers for a P3,000 across the board salary increase.
The group will hold protest actions in front of Malacañang at nine in the morning on November 25.
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November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 1:37 AM, Secretary Zamora denies P800M DBP loan,
MANILA, (ABS-CBN) - Executive Secretary Ronaldo Zamora denied Wednesday afternoon that the Coastal Road Corporation (CRC), headed by his brother Manny Zamora, had applied for a loan with the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP).
Secretary Zamora pointed out that the CRC did not need a loan from the DBP or any government-owned bank to finance the company's takeover of the Manila-Cavite Tollway Extention coastal road project.
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November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 1:57 AM, 5 WPD cops in hot water,
Five Western Police District (WPD) cops are now under investigation for harrassing and extorting money from an alleged drug pusher in Tondo, Manila.
Policeman SP01 Ricardo Inteno, PO3 Castor Tiglao, SPO1 Erlinda Lumage, and PO3 Eduardo David are being accused of extortion by drug pusher Rowena Salong.
Salong was apprehended last November 21 in Moriones, Tondo and was subjected to a body search. She claimed that the five policeman took advantage and touched her private parts.
The police also demanded P2,000 for her liberty.
She also claimed that another policeman, SP04 Redeo Castro, divested her of her jewelry after the body search.
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November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 2:51 AM, P1.142-b DPWH budget anomaly exposed,
MANILA, (ABS-CBN) - Senator John Osmeña announced Wednesday afternoon a P1.142 billion insertion in the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) budget, as approved by the House of Representatives.
Senator Osmena dubbed the insertion a "mystery fund" and assured people of a definite denial once the budget is passed to the Senate for approval. He noted that the insertion was done during the last minute deliberation at the House of Representatives where it was submitted under the heading "other national works and infrastructure projects."
Meanwhile, DPWH Secretary Gregorio Vigilar expressed his confidence to the media that no reductions will be made on the proposed P42-B budget set for next year. He mentioned that if a budget cut is inevitable, it should not affect foreign-assisted projects.
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November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 3:54 AM, City government denies Ocampo exhumation,
On what may be the final nail on the lid of the Ocampo investigations, the Cebu city government has stalled the issuance of an exhumation permit for the remains of the late Judge Martin Ocampo pending the release of an authenticated authorization certificate from Ocampo's eldest son, Omar.
The investigation on the death of Judge Ocampo has now passed on to other hands as the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) Cebu chapter has dissolved it's fact-finding committee on Ocampo's death.
The separate investigation has now become a personal undertaking for IBP-Cebu President Pedro Rosito and lawyer Gloria Dalawampu.
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November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 4:52 AM, Wahid to broker peace talks with Salamat,
GENERAL SANTOS CITY, (ABS-CBN) - Indonesian President Abdurahman Wahid is expected to arrive in General Santos City this week to meet with Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) chairman Hashim Salamat, following his involvement in the ongoing ASEAN (Association of the South East Asian Nations) informal summit in Manila.
The meeting is expected to help convince the MILF chairman to seek autonomy rather than secession and violence in Mindanao.
Indonesia previously helped broker successful peace negotiations between Manila and a larger rebel group, the Moro National Liberation Front, of which the MILF is a breakaway faction.
The talks, with support from then Indonesian President Suharto, prompted the MNLF to drop its separatist demand and led to a 1996 peace accord between the rebels and the Manila government, ending more than a quarter-century of fighting that killed more than 120,000 people.
General Santos City Mayor Adelbert Antonino has expressed hopes that this meeting with Salamat will be pivotal in resolving the Muslim-Christian conflict in Mindanao.
However, reliable sources from Davao disclosed that Malacanang officials are making sure that the Wahid-Salamat meeting will not push through.
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November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 6:11 AM, Flavier reveals senatorial bets on 2001 elections,
MANILA, (ABS-CBN) -- Senator Juan Flavier revealed Thursday the contenders for the senatorial race on the year 2001 elections.
Running under the administration party Lapian ng Masang Pilipino (LAMP) are Film industry's "Action King" and presidential buddy Fernando Poe Jr., Cavite Governor Bong Revilla and San Juan Mayor Jinggoy Estrada.
Under the opposition party of LAKAS-NUCD, Caloocan Mayor Rey Malonzo, Pampanga Governor Lito Lapid, Paranaque Mayor Joey Marquez and Lipa Mayor Vilma Santos-Recto will head the senatorial ticket.
The "balikbayan" contenders include Cong. Herherson Alvarez, Ernesto Herrera, Ambassador Ernesto Maceda, Defense Sec. Orlando Mercado, Agriculture Sec. Edgardo Angara, Leticia Ramos-Shahanni and Santanina Rasul.
The seven re-electionists include senators Juan Flavier, Sergio Osmeña, Miriam Defensor Santiago and Juan Ponce Enrile.
Flavier admitted LAMP officials tried to convince him to join the administrative party.
In the end, loyalty prevailed over prestige and security as he has opted to stay with LAKAS.
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November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 8:02 AM, Another P1B mystery fund discovered,
MANILA, (ABS-CBN) - Yet another P1-billion 'mystery fund' was discovered by the Senate Finance Committee Wednesday afternoon, inserted on the proposed year 2000 budget for the Department of Public Works and Highways.
Committee chairman John Osmena announced the discovery of the insertion after they noticed that the fund had no clear designations or appropriations connected to it.
DPWH vice president Gregorio Villar denied any knowledge of the mystery fund, stating that they will be content if its proposed P42-billion budget is approved for next year.
This amount does not include the P5.4 billion allotted annually for the department's rural infrastructure fund.
Senator Osmena asked DPWH President Benjamin Diokno to explain the new mystery fund or face even more budget cuts.
He denied that these insertions will allegedly fund the senators' pork barrel and reiterated the committee's commitment to cut at least P50 to P70 million from the country's already bloated budget.
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November 15, 1999, ABS-CBN, 4:45 PM, Lacson appointed new PNP chief,
MANILA, (ABS-CBN) - President Estrada has appointed Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Task Force (PAOCTF) chief Gen. Panfilo Lacson as the new director general of the Philippine National Police (PNP).
Lacson will succeed PNP officer-in-charge Gen. Edmundo Larroza who retires on Nov. 16.
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November 20, 1999, ABS-CBN, 6:38 PM, Militant labor group calls for general strike,
One thousand unions from the Kapatiran ng mga Pangulo ng Unyon sa Pilipinas (KPUP) have vowed to launch a general strike to press for a living wage. KPUP president Nomer Villalobos said they are pushing for the passing of the house bill on living wage which will give tax relief, price relief and mandated increases to the workers. The KPUP is also calling for the abolition of the wage boards.
November 23, 1999, ABS-CBN, 9:23 AM, Henry Sy faces Congress probe on SM labor row,
Shopping mall king Henry Sy is set to appear before the House of Representatives to shed light on the reported unfair labor practices at the Shoemart chain of stores. Iloilo Rep. Raul Gonzales filed a resolution calling for a congressional probe on the ongoing strike by SM employees. The employees are demanding for higher wages and the regularization of some 7,000 casual workers.
November 24, 1999, ABS-CBN, 5:18 AM, Parago's kin refutes Mercado statement,
DAVAO CITY, (ABS-CBN)- Lawyers and relatives of Leonardo Pitao alias Kumander Parago assailed Defense Secretary Orlando Mercado and Intelligence Armed Forces of the Philippines (ISAFP) General Calimlim Tuesday afternoon after the two officials disclosed that PaNovember 19, 1999, ABS-CBN, 6:42 AM, The MILF are terrorists - Estrada rago did not want to go to Davao for his arraignment.
Lacson will succeed PNP officer-in-charge Gen. Edmundo Larroza who retires on Nov. 16.
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November 15, 1999, ABS-CBN, 4:24 PM, Cebu juvenile killer's lawyers ask for transfer to DSWD,
Lawyers of self-confessed killer, Arnel Arellano, last week moved for the immediate transfer of the 12-year old suspect from the Cebu city jail to the Department of Social Welfare and Development.
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November 19, 1999, ABS-CBN, 6:42 AM, The MILF are terrorists - Estrada,
MAGUINDANAO (ABS-CBN) "They're terrorists," grimaced President Joseph Estrada. "The government will not allow them to continue victimizing civilians."
"But if we are terrorists," countered Al Haj Murad, Vice-Chair for Military Affairs of the Moro International Liberation Front (MILF), "Then there would be no room for a negotiation with the government."
Whatever the case may be, it was certainly a grim morning last Thursday as President Joseph Estrada undertook another mission of mercy when he visited a military camp in Iwang, Maguindanao, where injured soldiers from the latest skirmishes in North Cotabato were confined.
Accompanying him on the said visit was Southern Command Chief General Edgardo Espinosa.
Six army soldiers from the 40th and 56th infantry battalions of the Philippine Army were admitted in the Siongco Station Hospital after their week long encounter in Carmen, North Cotabato.
Each soldier was given a medal, a pledge of a ten thousand-peso cash reward and a one-rank promotion.
In an earlier statement, President Estrada announced that he will cancel the peace talks if the MILF launches another assault on the military and civilian population.
Despite these threats, the MILF is still bent on pursuing the first round of the formal peace talks on December 13 and 14 at Dawah Center, Sultan Kudarat, Maguidanao.
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November 19, 1999, ABS-CBN, 6:42 AM, The MILF are terrorists - Estrada,
MAGUINDANAO (ABS-CBN) "They're terrorists," grimaced President Joseph Estrada. "The government will not allow them to continue victimizing civilians."
"But if we are terrorists," countered Al Haj Murad, Vice-Chair for Military Affairs of the Moro International Liberation Front (MILF), "Then there would be no room for a negotiation with the government."
Whatever the case may be, it was certainly a grim morning last Thursday as President Joseph Estrada undertook another mission of mercy when he visited a military camp in Iwang, Maguindanao, where injured soldiers from the latest skirmishes in North Cotabato were confined.
Accompanying him on the said visit was Southern Command Chief General Edgardo Espinosa.
Six army soldiers from the 40th and 56th infantry battalions of the Philippine Army were admitted in the Siongco Station Hospital after their week long encounter in Carmen, North Cotabato.
Each soldier was given a medal, a pledge of a ten thousand-peso cash reward and a one-rank promotion.
In an earlier statement, President Estrada announced that he will cancel the peace talks if the MILF launches another assault on the military and civilian population.
Despite these threats, the MILF is still bent on pursuing the first round of the formal peace talks on December 13 and 14 at Dawah Center, Sultan Kudarat, Maguidanao.
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November 20, 1999, ABS-CBN, 6:38 PM, Militant labor group calls for general strike,
One thousand unions from the Kapatiran ng mga Pangulo ng Unyon sa Pilipinas (KPUP) have vowed to launch a general strike to press for a living wage. KPUP president Nomer Villalobos said they are pushing for the passing of the house bill on living wage which will give tax relief, price relief and mandated increases to the workers. The KPUP is also calling for the abolition of the wage boards.
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Shopping mall king Henry Sy is set to appear before the House of Representatives to shed light on the reported unfair labor practices at the Shoemart chain of stores. Iloilo Rep. Raul Gonzales filed a resolution calling for a congressional probe on the ongoing strike by SM employees. The employees are demanding for higher wages and the regularization of some 7,000 casual workers.
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November 23, 1999, ABS-CBN, 10:36 AM, Erap may be impeached, solons say,
President Joseph Estrada may face impeachment once proven that he indeed authorized government intelligence agencies to spy on former president Fidel Ramos and his party. Opposition party solons said they want an investigation into the release of funds by the President to the various government intelligence agencies. These include the National Security Council, Intelligence Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (ISAFP), Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Task Force (PAOCTF), and National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA). Senate president for contemporate John Osmeña is accusing National Security Adviser Alexander Aguirre of Lakas NUCD, Ramos's political party, for spying Estrada.
President Joseph Estrada may face impeachment once proven that he indeed authorized government intelligence agencies to spy on former president Fidel Ramos and his party. Opposition party solons said they want an investigation into the release of funds by the President to the various government intelligence agencies. These include the National Security Council, Intelligence Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (ISAFP), Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Task Force (PAOCTF), and National Intelligence Coordinating Agency (NICA). Senate president for contemporate John Osmeña is accusing National Security Adviser Alexander Aguirre of Lakas NUCD, Ramos's political party, for spying Estrada.
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November 23, 1999, ABS-CBN, 8:44 AM, "Tad-tad" anti-communist groups resurrected,
CEBU CITY, (ABS-CBN)- Hinterland barangays in Cebu City have resurrected the community based anti-insurgency group Tad-Tad.
"Tad-tad" is short for Sagrado Corazon de Jesus, an anti-communist group that was active in the eighties at the height of the underground movement in Cebu's hinterland barangays.
In Barangay Tabunan, one of Cebu City's hinterland villages, people have armed themselves not with guns but bolos.
Tabunan barangay captain Vicente Padayao revealed that the resurrection of anti-communist groups was prompted by sightings of armed men as well as increased hostilities between NPA rebels and government forces in nearby Bohol province.
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CEBU CITY, (ABS-CBN)- Hinterland barangays in Cebu City have resurrected the community based anti-insurgency group Tad-Tad.
"Tad-tad" is short for Sagrado Corazon de Jesus, an anti-communist group that was active in the eighties at the height of the underground movement in Cebu's hinterland barangays.
In Barangay Tabunan, one of Cebu City's hinterland villages, people have armed themselves not with guns but bolos.
Tabunan barangay captain Vicente Padayao revealed that the resurrection of anti-communist groups was prompted by sightings of armed men as well as increased hostilities between NPA rebels and government forces in nearby Bohol province.
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November 24, 1999, ABS-CBN, 12:00 AM, Desks scam haunts DECS anew,
MANILA, (ABS-CBN) - Senator Teresa Aquino-Oreta asked the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee to investigate the anomalous purchase of more than P81 million worth of desks by the Department of Education, Culture and Sports (DECS) during the time of former Secretary Ricardo Gloria.
Early this year, several Malacañang officials,including Budget secretary Benjamin Diokno, Executive Secretary Ronaldo Zamora and Zamora's deputy Vicente dela Serna were under fire because of a bribery attempt involving a P200-million textbook contract.
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November 24, 1999, ABS-CBN, 7:47 PM, Chopper unloading food provisions missing,
BULACAN, (ABS-CBN) - A chopper which acquired from the United States four months ago after having been reconditioned is reportedly missing.
The Bell which is the chopper's name took off Tuesday at 3:30 in the afternoon from Makuha, East of Angat Dam in Bulacan, bound for Umiray also in Bulacan.
The Bell was last seen unloading food provisions for 300 people working on the 13-kilometer tunnel being built in Umiray to pipe in water for the Angat Dam.
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November 24, 1999, ABS-CBN, 3:21 PM, 232 carnapped vehicles returned,
More stolen cars are being returned in response to Police Director Panfilo Lacson's directive to prohibit the use of carnapped cars by cops. At least 232 carnapped vehicles were recovered and surrendered at the impounding area of Camp Crame in Quezon City following Traffic Management Group Chief George Aliño's warning that cops who fail to do so will be charged with violation of the anti-carnapping or anti-fencing law. Majority of the vehicles are from Central Luzon, Southern Tagalog and the National Capital Region.
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MANILA, (ABS-CBN) - Senator Teresa Aquino-Oreta asked the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee to investigate the anomalous purchase of more than P81 million worth of desks by the Department of Education, Culture and Sports (DECS) during the time of former Secretary Ricardo Gloria.
Early this year, several Malacañang officials,including Budget secretary Benjamin Diokno, Executive Secretary Ronaldo Zamora and Zamora's deputy Vicente dela Serna were under fire because of a bribery attempt involving a P200-million textbook contract.
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November 24, 1999, ABS-CBN, 7:47 PM, Chopper unloading food provisions missing,
BULACAN, (ABS-CBN) - A chopper which acquired from the United States four months ago after having been reconditioned is reportedly missing.
The Bell which is the chopper's name took off Tuesday at 3:30 in the afternoon from Makuha, East of Angat Dam in Bulacan, bound for Umiray also in Bulacan.
The Bell was last seen unloading food provisions for 300 people working on the 13-kilometer tunnel being built in Umiray to pipe in water for the Angat Dam.
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November 24, 1999, ABS-CBN, 3:21 PM, 232 carnapped vehicles returned,
More stolen cars are being returned in response to Police Director Panfilo Lacson's directive to prohibit the use of carnapped cars by cops. At least 232 carnapped vehicles were recovered and surrendered at the impounding area of Camp Crame in Quezon City following Traffic Management Group Chief George Aliño's warning that cops who fail to do so will be charged with violation of the anti-carnapping or anti-fencing law. Majority of the vehicles are from Central Luzon, Southern Tagalog and the National Capital Region.
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November 24, 1999, ABS-CBN, 5:18 AM, Parago's kin refutes Mercado statement,
DAVAO CITY, (ABS-CBN)- Lawyers and relatives of Leonardo Pitao alias Kumander Parago assailed Defense Secretary Orlando Mercado and Intelligence Armed Forces of the Philippines (ISAFP) General Calimlim Tuesday afternoon after the two officials disclosed that PaNovember 19, 1999, ABS-CBN, 6:42 AM, The MILF are terrorists - Estrada rago did not want to go to Davao for his arraignment.
Parago's family claimed that Parago wrote them a letter denying the military's statements.
Parago is facing eight charges of robbery and murder in Davao and Panabo.
According to Defense Attorney Romeo Capulong, the military has insisted in keeping Parago under custody. This, Capulong stated, is part of the government's propaganda.
For its failure to present Parago for his arraignment, Atty. Capulong is contemplating either a motion against the ISAFP for contempt of court or he may file charges for human rights violations against the same party.
Parago is currently being held at the ISAFP Detention Center.
Meanwhile, militant groups in Davao City warned of possible protest actions until Parago is freed by the military.
This was disclosed by Philippine Independent Church Bishop Felixberto Calang, current head of the KARAPATAN-Davao chapter.
Calang voiced out the groups' disappointment with the government and stated their plans to stage a protest action right in front of the ISAFP building where Parago was initially held in custody.
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November 24, 1999, ABS-CBN, 5:43 AM, AFP monitors installation of MILF camps in Lanao Del Sur,
LANAO DEL SUR, (ABS-CBN) - Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff General Angelo Reyes assures that the military will not allow the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) to establish satellite camps in the Lanao provinces.
The MILF is suspected of establishing more camps in Mindanao as additional bargaining chips for their ongoing peace talks with the national government.
Fourth Infantry Division spokesperson Major Johnny Macanas disclosed that Reyes has ordered their division to be vigilant against the MILF's establishments of satellite camps in the Lanao areas.
Reyes arrived in Marawi City Sunday to evaluate the tension between the military and members of the MILF in Calanugas, Lanao del Sur.
Meanwhile, Governor Mahid Mutilan has pledged his full support to the military in their fight against the MILF.
Mutilan has been rumored to be among the MILF's targets for ambush.
Macanas believes the continued MILF offensive operation is meant to divert government troops from discovering satellite camps in Mindanao which will eventually be acknowledged as legitimate camps.
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November 24, 1999, ABS-CBN, 6:16 AM, Mercado denies political espionage,
MANILA, (ABS-CBN) -- National Defense Secretary Orlando Mercado belied reports of espionage against political opponents last Tuesday.
He claimed that such a move would be "a waste of money."
Mercado also acquiesced that his department is open to investigation, if any are to be conducted.
Concerning the current impeachment issue against President Joseph Estrada, Mercado belittled the accusation and stressed that impeachment is for officials who have violated the law. He advised that senators who plan to pursue this accusation should focus first on solid evidence that will back their claims.
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November 24, 1999, ABS-CBN, 6:16 AM, Mercado denies political espionage,
MANILA, (ABS-CBN) -- National Defense Secretary Orlando Mercado belied reports of espionage against political opponents last Tuesday.
He claimed that such a move would be "a waste of money."
Mercado also acquiesced that his department is open to investigation, if any are to be conducted.
Concerning the current impeachment issue against President Joseph Estrada, Mercado belittled the accusation and stressed that impeachment is for officials who have violated the law. He advised that senators who plan to pursue this accusation should focus first on solid evidence that will back their claims.
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MANILA, (ABS-CBN) -- Ombudsman Aniano Desierto is now ready to start investigations on Y2K Commission chairman Amable Aguiluz.
Aguiluz has been hounded by allegations of conflict of interest after he reportedly used his position as chairman of the Y2K Commission to put up Millenium Solutions Corp., a company that sells computer cards designed to solve the Y2K bug. Aguiluz is also reportedly facing 30 estafa cases, all pending at the Makati Regional Trial Court.
He resigned from his post November 19, citingdelicadeza as his leading motivation to spare President Estrada and his own family from controversy.
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November 24, 1999, ABS-CBN, 8:07 PM, Salary increase for PNP personnel,
QUEZON CITY, (ABS-CBN) - It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas for the members of Philippine National Police.
Members of the Philippine National Police (PNP) got their early Christmas gift from President Estrada when he announced Wednesday an increase in their basic salary and monthly allowance plus an increase in their monthly health care benefits.
President Estrada ordered the release of over P1 billion in benefits for the members of the PNP as a "reward" for the PNP's good performance since Police Director Panfilo Lacson took over as PNP chief.
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November 24, 1999, ABS-CBN, 8:07 PM, Salary increase for PNP personnel,
QUEZON CITY, (ABS-CBN) - It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas for the members of Philippine National Police.
Members of the Philippine National Police (PNP) got their early Christmas gift from President Estrada when he announced Wednesday an increase in their basic salary and monthly allowance plus an increase in their monthly health care benefits.
President Estrada ordered the release of over P1 billion in benefits for the members of the PNP as a "reward" for the PNP's good performance since Police Director Panfilo Lacson took over as PNP chief.
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November 24, 1999, ABS-CBN, 11:35 PM, NKI union members demand salary increase,
QUEZON CITY, (ABS-CBN) - Union members of the National Kidney Institute (NKI) will join other militant groups' protest action to demand for salary increases and amelioration pay.
The NKI Employees Association composed of nurses, medical technologies, and food servers held Wednesday an overnight vigil outside the hospital to demand for their unpaid benefits amounting to P15,000 each.
This includes their 1998 amelioration pay, their centennial bonus, food and emergency allowances.
Joey Espanilo, president of the union said the group is one with the demands of other government hospital workers for a P3,000 across the board salary increase.
The group will hold protest actions in front of Malacañang at nine in the morning on November 25.
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November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 1:37 AM, Secretary Zamora denies P800M DBP loan,
MANILA, (ABS-CBN) - Executive Secretary Ronaldo Zamora denied Wednesday afternoon that the Coastal Road Corporation (CRC), headed by his brother Manny Zamora, had applied for a loan with the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP).
Secretary Zamora pointed out that the CRC did not need a loan from the DBP or any government-owned bank to finance the company's takeover of the Manila-Cavite Tollway Extention coastal road project.
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Five Western Police District (WPD) cops are now under investigation for harrassing and extorting money from an alleged drug pusher in Tondo, Manila.
Policeman SP01 Ricardo Inteno, PO3 Castor Tiglao, SPO1 Erlinda Lumage, and PO3 Eduardo David are being accused of extortion by drug pusher Rowena Salong.
Salong was apprehended last November 21 in Moriones, Tondo and was subjected to a body search. She claimed that the five policeman took advantage and touched her private parts.
The police also demanded P2,000 for her liberty.
She also claimed that another policeman, SP04 Redeo Castro, divested her of her jewelry after the body search.
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November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 2:51 AM, P1.142-b DPWH budget anomaly exposed,
MANILA, (ABS-CBN) - Senator John Osmeña announced Wednesday afternoon a P1.142 billion insertion in the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) budget, as approved by the House of Representatives.
Senator Osmena dubbed the insertion a "mystery fund" and assured people of a definite denial once the budget is passed to the Senate for approval. He noted that the insertion was done during the last minute deliberation at the House of Representatives where it was submitted under the heading "other national works and infrastructure projects."
Meanwhile, DPWH Secretary Gregorio Vigilar expressed his confidence to the media that no reductions will be made on the proposed P42-B budget set for next year. He mentioned that if a budget cut is inevitable, it should not affect foreign-assisted projects.
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November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 3:54 AM, City government denies Ocampo exhumation,
On what may be the final nail on the lid of the Ocampo investigations, the Cebu city government has stalled the issuance of an exhumation permit for the remains of the late Judge Martin Ocampo pending the release of an authenticated authorization certificate from Ocampo's eldest son, Omar.
The investigation on the death of Judge Ocampo has now passed on to other hands as the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) Cebu chapter has dissolved it's fact-finding committee on Ocampo's death.
The separate investigation has now become a personal undertaking for IBP-Cebu President Pedro Rosito and lawyer Gloria Dalawampu.
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November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 4:52 AM, Wahid to broker peace talks with Salamat,
GENERAL SANTOS CITY, (ABS-CBN) - Indonesian President Abdurahman Wahid is expected to arrive in General Santos City this week to meet with Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) chairman Hashim Salamat, following his involvement in the ongoing ASEAN (Association of the South East Asian Nations) informal summit in Manila.
The meeting is expected to help convince the MILF chairman to seek autonomy rather than secession and violence in Mindanao.
Indonesia previously helped broker successful peace negotiations between Manila and a larger rebel group, the Moro National Liberation Front, of which the MILF is a breakaway faction.
The talks, with support from then Indonesian President Suharto, prompted the MNLF to drop its separatist demand and led to a 1996 peace accord between the rebels and the Manila government, ending more than a quarter-century of fighting that killed more than 120,000 people.
General Santos City Mayor Adelbert Antonino has expressed hopes that this meeting with Salamat will be pivotal in resolving the Muslim-Christian conflict in Mindanao.
However, reliable sources from Davao disclosed that Malacanang officials are making sure that the Wahid-Salamat meeting will not push through.
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November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 6:11 AM, Flavier reveals senatorial bets on 2001 elections,
MANILA, (ABS-CBN) -- Senator Juan Flavier revealed Thursday the contenders for the senatorial race on the year 2001 elections.
Running under the administration party Lapian ng Masang Pilipino (LAMP) are Film industry's "Action King" and presidential buddy Fernando Poe Jr., Cavite Governor Bong Revilla and San Juan Mayor Jinggoy Estrada.
Under the opposition party of LAKAS-NUCD, Caloocan Mayor Rey Malonzo, Pampanga Governor Lito Lapid, Paranaque Mayor Joey Marquez and Lipa Mayor Vilma Santos-Recto will head the senatorial ticket.
The "balikbayan" contenders include Cong. Herherson Alvarez, Ernesto Herrera, Ambassador Ernesto Maceda, Defense Sec. Orlando Mercado, Agriculture Sec. Edgardo Angara, Leticia Ramos-Shahanni and Santanina Rasul.
The seven re-electionists include senators Juan Flavier, Sergio Osmeña, Miriam Defensor Santiago and Juan Ponce Enrile.
Flavier admitted LAMP officials tried to convince him to join the administrative party.
In the end, loyalty prevailed over prestige and security as he has opted to stay with LAKAS.
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November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 8:02 AM, Another P1B mystery fund discovered,
MANILA, (ABS-CBN) - Yet another P1-billion 'mystery fund' was discovered by the Senate Finance Committee Wednesday afternoon, inserted on the proposed year 2000 budget for the Department of Public Works and Highways.
Committee chairman John Osmena announced the discovery of the insertion after they noticed that the fund had no clear designations or appropriations connected to it.
DPWH vice president Gregorio Villar denied any knowledge of the mystery fund, stating that they will be content if its proposed P42-billion budget is approved for next year.
This amount does not include the P5.4 billion allotted annually for the department's rural infrastructure fund.
Senator Osmena asked DPWH President Benjamin Diokno to explain the new mystery fund or face even more budget cuts.
He denied that these insertions will allegedly fund the senators' pork barrel and reiterated the committee's commitment to cut at least P50 to P70 million from the country's already bloated budget.
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November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 7:03 AM, No funds, manpower for "political espionage",
MANILA, (ABS-CBN) - It's a question of money and manpower.
LAMP Senator Gringo Honasan announced Wednesday that government intelligence agencies lacked both the funds and the manpower to mount political espionage operations, as earlier alleged by the opposition party.
Using his experience as a former AFP General, Senator Honasan explained that both the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) can hardly implement such spying activities based on the budget allotted by Congress.
He based his statements upon the actual budget proposals of the military and the national police, which were too meager for such an undertaking.
The former Rebolusyonaryong Alyansang Makabayan (RAM) leader agreed however that political espionage is plausible if there will be a diversion of funds.
The 'spying' issue reportedly stemmed from President Estrada's statement that the opposition party is trying to destabilize the government.
Reports later pointed to Presidential Adviser for Political Affairs Angelito Banayo for allegedly issuing a statement which spoke of the administration's spying operation on its political opponents using government intelligence agencies. He had since denied the allegation.
Banayo admitted that Malacañang tapped the National Security Council, Intelligence Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Task Force (PAOCTF) and National Intelligence Coordinating Agency to gather intelligence on the Lakas.
MANILA, (ABS-CBN) - It's a question of money and manpower.
LAMP Senator Gringo Honasan announced Wednesday that government intelligence agencies lacked both the funds and the manpower to mount political espionage operations, as earlier alleged by the opposition party.
Using his experience as a former AFP General, Senator Honasan explained that both the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) can hardly implement such spying activities based on the budget allotted by Congress.
He based his statements upon the actual budget proposals of the military and the national police, which were too meager for such an undertaking.
The former Rebolusyonaryong Alyansang Makabayan (RAM) leader agreed however that political espionage is plausible if there will be a diversion of funds.
The 'spying' issue reportedly stemmed from President Estrada's statement that the opposition party is trying to destabilize the government.
Reports later pointed to Presidential Adviser for Political Affairs Angelito Banayo for allegedly issuing a statement which spoke of the administration's spying operation on its political opponents using government intelligence agencies. He had since denied the allegation.
Banayo admitted that Malacañang tapped the National Security Council, Intelligence Service of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Task Force (PAOCTF) and National Intelligence Coordinating Agency to gather intelligence on the Lakas.
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November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 6:32 AM, Estrada bullish on RP credit rating,
MANILA, (ABS-CBN) - President Joseph Estrada is optimistic the Philippines stands a good chance of getting a better credit rating as indicated by the country's ongoing economic recovery.
Presidential Spokesman Fernando Barican announced Wednesday that the President anchored his optimism on the strong rebound of the agriculture sector as well as the continuing growth of the manufacturing sector.
Moody, one the two major international credit rating agencies, is set to conduct a review of the Philippine economy next month.
Barican noted that agriculture, the "main driver" of the economy surged by 6.6 percent in the first semester compared to a 7.5 percent decline in the same period last year.
He also cited the results of the most recent industry survey of the National Statistics Office (NSO), which showed the volume of industrial production rising by 14.3 percent in August.
On top of this, Barican said the growth of the service sector improved to 4 percent in the second quarter of 1999 from 3 per cent in the first quarter. He cited a hefty 32.6 percent export growth in September that pushed the average export growth in the first nine months of the year to 17 percent.
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November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 8:58 AM, Lacson to head task force against squatters,
MANILA, (ABS-CBN) -- Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Panfilo Lacson will also head the new Task Force on Professional Squatters and Squatting Syndicates, which was created by President Joseph Estrada to curtail the operations of professional squatters and squatting syndicates in Greater Manila.
The task force was created by virtue of Executive Order No. 178.
Underscoring the need the need to strengthen the capability of local government units to curtail the operations of professional squatters and squatting syndicates, the President recently launched Executive Order 179 under the Presidential Housing One-Staff Center which helps both beneficiaries and developers of the government's Socialized Locus Housing Project.
November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 6:32 AM, Estrada bullish on RP credit rating,
MANILA, (ABS-CBN) - President Joseph Estrada is optimistic the Philippines stands a good chance of getting a better credit rating as indicated by the country's ongoing economic recovery.
Presidential Spokesman Fernando Barican announced Wednesday that the President anchored his optimism on the strong rebound of the agriculture sector as well as the continuing growth of the manufacturing sector.
Moody, one the two major international credit rating agencies, is set to conduct a review of the Philippine economy next month.
Barican noted that agriculture, the "main driver" of the economy surged by 6.6 percent in the first semester compared to a 7.5 percent decline in the same period last year.
He also cited the results of the most recent industry survey of the National Statistics Office (NSO), which showed the volume of industrial production rising by 14.3 percent in August.
On top of this, Barican said the growth of the service sector improved to 4 percent in the second quarter of 1999 from 3 per cent in the first quarter. He cited a hefty 32.6 percent export growth in September that pushed the average export growth in the first nine months of the year to 17 percent.
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November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 8:58 AM, Lacson to head task force against squatters,
MANILA, (ABS-CBN) -- Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Panfilo Lacson will also head the new Task Force on Professional Squatters and Squatting Syndicates, which was created by President Joseph Estrada to curtail the operations of professional squatters and squatting syndicates in Greater Manila.
The task force was created by virtue of Executive Order No. 178.
Underscoring the need the need to strengthen the capability of local government units to curtail the operations of professional squatters and squatting syndicates, the President recently launched Executive Order 179 under the Presidential Housing One-Staff Center which helps both beneficiaries and developers of the government's Socialized Locus Housing Project.
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According to Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno, the proposed budget for year 2000 is transparent enough to discourage the Senate Finance Committe from making unnecessary budget cuts.
He pointed out that a proposed budget goes through meticulous study from both the lower house and the senate.
As before, Diokno discouraged any budget cuts that would be counterproductive to the projects of the government as the proposed budget next year is actually lower than last year.
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November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 6:51 PM, 2 Cabinet men submit courtesy resignations,
MANILA, (ABS-CBN) - Two Cabinet officials have heeded the "challenge" of President Estrada for his official family to submit their courtesy resignations by the end of the month.
Secretary Jimmy Policarpio of the Presidential Legislative Liaison Office, who reportedly submitted his courtesy resignation along with his office's performance report Wednesday, will soon be followed by Press Secretary Rodolfo Reyes on Friday.
Reyes proved more dramatic, following reports that he even thanked the President in a formal letter for giving him the opportunity to serve his administration.
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November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 10:13 PM, DENR officials suspended,
MANILA, (ABS-CBN) - Four top officials of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Land Management Bureau have been ordered suspended by Ombudsman Aniano Desierto.
They were identified as former bureau director Miguel Gerochi, Atty. Alberto Recalde, Lito Salgado, and Samson de Leon.
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November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 10:49 PM, P10,000 reward for 7-Eleven fugitive,
MANILA, (ABS-CBN) - A reward of P10,000 awaits anyone who can point to the whereabouts of an escaped suspect in the 7-Eleven robbery-murders last July.
Bureau of Jail Management and penology (BJMP) Director Aquilino Jacob announced the bounty, two days after the escape of Bernardo Ranara.
Ranara was the only successful one of eight suspects who tried to jump a BJMP bus after a court hearing. One was killed, while the rest were captured.
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November 25, 1999, ABS-CBN, 11:06 PM, Ministers say ASEAN still vulnerable,
Finance Ministers of the Association of Souteast Asian Nations on Thursday conceded that the ASEAN economy remains vulnerable to external risks, even as it is heading for a recovery in the coming year.
ASEAN minister also recognized that the region continues to be vulnerable, with the possible slowdown of the United States economy and the predicted inability of Japan to recover by next year.
During the second day of the summit held at the Cultural Center of the Philippines complex Finance Secretary Edgardo Espiritu said: "While our own economy looks much healthier compared to a year ago the situation still remains vulnerable and there are risks that need to be addressed if our economy are to experience high sustainable quality growth."
But not all is gloomy.
The ten-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations said that they are hoping ASEAN to regain their rightful place in the global economy.
In a joint statement ASEAN finance ministers said that ASEAN as a whole is expected to grow at an average of 2-3% this year a reversal from the 7% contraction recorded last year.
The finance ministers said they intend to restore ASEAN position as one of the world fastest growing
regions.
To ensure a steady economy, Finance Secretary Edgardo Espiritu said ASEAN governments should aim to balance their fiscal position over the medium term. He said crisis-hit nations should also work for the implementation of financial sector reforms, restructuring and establishment of social safety nets
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Annoyed residents and barangay officials of Kalayaan St., Sta. Ana, Manila, filed a complaint Thursday against fellow resident, Atty. Hermogenes Datuin, after a shooting incident in their area.
According to Brgy. Chairman Conrado Pablo, the suspect complained that loiterers were throwing stones at his window.
However, barangay officials did not find any evidence that such an incident occured.
Angered, the suspect and his two sons started shooting at some residents' houses, including one owned by Councilor Lou Veloso.
The police arrested the suspect but released him later for lack of evidence.
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ZAMBOANGA CITY, (ABS-CBN)- Although no date has been finalized yet, Zamboanga City is abuzz with preparations for President Estrada's visit slated first week of December.
Mayor Maria Clara Lobregat disclosed plans for the President's itinerary which will include the inaguration of the city's new cathedral as well as a symposium with Zamboanga's one hundred poorest residents, as organized by an urban poor organization.
Estrada will also lead ceremonies that will signal the start of construction for the controversial Quiniput-Licomo-Zamboanga City road.
The visit will be Estrada's second trip to Zamboanga City this year.
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November 26, 1999, ABS-CBN, 4:04 AM, Senate minority questions Lapid suspension,
MANILA, (ABS-CBN) - Senate minority leader Teofisto Guingona Jr. accused the administration of using a double standard of justice for suspending erring officials who are affiliated with the Lakas-NUCD.
Guingona said that the government fast-tracked suspensions against Pampanga Governor Lito Lapid and Caloocan Mayor Rey Malonzo because they are close to former president Fidel Ramos.
The senate minority expressed surprise that no action has been taken on officials affiliated with the ruling LAMP party who also have numerous criminal and administrative cases filed against them.
Guingona mentioned the case of DILG secretary Ricardo Puno who was still not suspended after undergoing investigations by both the Sagisag Commission and the Office of the Ombudsman.
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November 26, 1999, ABS-CBN, 3:33 AM, Mayor Joey Marquez, 5 others face imprisonment,
PARANAQUE, (ABS-CBN) - For violating the temporary restraining order (TRO) issued by Judge Henry Ricafort, Mayor Joey Marquez, PAGCOR Chief Alice Reyes and five others are facing a possible six-month imprisonment for opening a PAGCOR in Parañaque.
Aside from Marquez and the PAGCOR Chief, other officials facing possible imprisonment are Reynaldo Menorio, PAGCOR President; businessman Eduardo Marcelo , and three Parañaque councilors Jaime Neri, Jun Danzon and Alberto Buenavista.
The court issued the temporary restraining order in response to the motion filed by councilors Rodolfo Punzalan and Derek Paez and the Stand Against Gambling In Paranaque (SAGIP) group.
Councilor Rodolfo Punzalan also appealed to PNP Chief Panfilo Lacson, NCR Director Edgardo Aglipay and Paranaque Police Chief Javier to enforce the TRO.
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ZAMBOANGA, (ABS-CBN) - Three of the pirates who killed a family of fishermen in Basilan have been captured by military troops based in Sumisip.
Southern Command Major Salih Indanan reported the arrest after military troops of the Philippine Army's Tenth Infantry batallion overwhelmed the pirates in a running gunbattle in the high seas of Basilan.
They were identified as Kapitalte Sasapan, Albani Sasapan and Maulod Namili.
The suspects' motives for the attack have yet to be established.
They are now undergoing tactical interrogation at the detachment of the tenth infantry Battalion.
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November 26, 1999, ABS-CBN, 2:39 AM, PAF, AFP units to search for missing chopper,
Defense Sec. Orly Mercado ordered the Philippine Air Force (PAF) and other rescue units of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to help in locating the missing chopper of Sen. Juan Ponce Enrile.
The civilian helicopter of JAKA Corporation was reportedly lost Wednesday afternoon after unloading food provisions in Umiray, Bulacan.
The helicopter, piloted by Capt. Arnel Panopio of the Jaka-Airspan charter services, is believed to be lost between Bgys. Umiray and Macuha, Bulacan.
PAF spokesman Eduardo Oban called off the search-and-rescue operations temporarily Thursday evening because of the inclement weather.
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November 26, 1999, ABS-CBN, 3:22 AM, Travel ban and freeze hiring on government agencies,
MANILA, (ABS-CBN) - A possible travel ban and freeze-hiring in all goverment agencies is in the works in light of the perceived budget deficit for year 2000.
According to Press Secretary Rod Reyes, these belt-tightening measures are a virtual guarantee if the senate persists in approving cuts on the proposed P600 billion budget for year 2000.
President Joseph Estrada instructed Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno to set guidelines on which government sectors should be exempted from the travel ban and freeze hiring.
Reyes clarified that foreign trips will only be allowed if travel expenses are shouldered by the organizers or private individuals.
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November 26, 1999, ABS-CBN, 4:30 AM, Taxi driver delivering fake Fundador, nabbed,
MANILA, (ABS-CBN) -- A taxi driver who doubled as a peddler of fake Fundador brandy was arrested by the Western Police District (WPD) Mobile Patrol Division in Pandacan, Wednesday night.
The driver, identified as Perfecto Trinidad, refused to reveal the source of his "hot items" but admitted he was bound for Angat, Bulacan to sell the fake liquor.
Each bottle cost only P230 which is P70 cheaper than the original price of a genuine one-liter Fundador.
Police announced that Trinidad's arrest is part of a month-long campaign against fake wine peddlers who sell products that imitate the real thing.
The suspect will face charges of unfair trade competition.
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November 27, 1999, ABS-CBN, 5:00 PM, Citizen's group wants lottery scheme used for elections,
Members of a civic group supporting the charter change proposal of the Estrada Administration want the country's election system changed into a lottery. Col. Octavio Alvarez of the 250-member Citizen's Foundation for the Prevention of Crimes and Injustices said changing the country's election process into a lottery style election can lessen chances of cheating. Alvarez said the lottery system could also lessen the campaign costs for candidates.
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November 27, 1999, ABS-CBN, 5:00 PM, Citizen's group wants lottery scheme used for elections,
Members of a civic group supporting the charter change proposal of the Estrada Administration want the country's election system changed into a lottery. Col. Octavio Alvarez of the 250-member Citizen's Foundation for the Prevention of Crimes and Injustices said changing the country's election process into a lottery style election can lessen chances of cheating. Alvarez said the lottery system could also lessen the campaign costs for candidates.
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MANILA, (ABS-CBN)--Warning that he would not hesitate to mobilize the faithful again,
Manila Archbishop Jaime Cardinal Sin urged President Estrada Friday evening not to push for a national identification system.
"I am against the proposal for a national ID system," Sin said in a statement.
He said the scheme would only open the gates for so many violations of the people's constitutional and basic human rights.
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MANILA, (ABS-CBN) -- Best World Resources Corp. (BWRC) has confirmed talks it is acquiring businessman Dante Tan's Best World Gaming and Entertainment Corp. (BWGEC) which operates on-line Bingo Pilipino terminals.
The deal is worth P62.5 billion.
BWRC disclosed that to firm up its acquisition of BWGEC, it will issue up to 1.25 billion shares at P50 per share (with a P1 par value) or a total of P62.5 billion to BWGEC.
Aside from BWGEC, the property and gaming firm which is priming the company as a premier leisure and entertainment corporation is also currently negotiating to acquire other prime properties through swap shares.
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November 27, 1999, ABS-CBN, 6:44 AM, CATWAP hits Pinay sex traffic in S.Korea,
MANILA, (ABS-CBN)--The Coalition Against Trafficking in Women-Asia Pacific yesterday reported in a news conference that about 600 of the estimated 1,000 Filipina entertainers in South Korea have become sex workers around US military facilities in Dongduchon-shi and Pyont'aekshi. .
According to CATWAP training director Jean Enriquez, most of the women were minors from Central Luzon that were smuggled out through various airports via an ''escort system''.
Airport officials allegedly received at least $25,000 from their Korean recruiter for each departing young woman.
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