DOTr eyes return of Sumitomo Corporation as MRT-3 maintenance provider

The maintenance and rehabilitation work is expected to begin before the year ends.

There is huge chance that the Department of Transportation (DOTr) might bring back Sumitomo Corporation and its technical partner Mitsubishi heavy industries in the maintenance and rehabilitation of the Metro Rail Transit or MRT-3.

This has been the statement of the Department of Transportation or DOTr, Wednesday. It also assures the public that the government is doing its best to improve the services of MRT.

According to DOTr Assistant Secretary for Rails Timothy John Batan, Sumitomo Corporation is the first company being considered by the Transportation Department as the maintenance provider of the rail system.

“That’s part of the options the Department of Transportation is looking into. Because you know, that joint venture is the one that designed and built the MRT-3 in 1998 until 2000 and they are ones maintaining the MRT since 2000 until 2012,” Batan said.

The DOTr targets to get the services of the said company through government to government agreement and not by bidding.

Philippine Transport officials are currently coordinating with the Japanese Government regarding the matter. The agreement is expected to be signed before the year ends.

“The G2G agreement will pave way for the Official Development Assistance or ODA that can be used by the DOTr to look for a maintenance service provider.

The DOTr said the contract would also contain the rehabilitation of MRT so the trains could return to its original performance.

However, the Transportation Department has yet to determine the amount it will pay Sumitomo for its services.

Sumitomo was the maintenance provider of MRT in the first 12 years of its operation.

It was also the company that designed the MRT.

Meanwhile, the National Bureau of Investigation conducted another inspection earlier at the depot of MRT.

The inspection is in connection with the NBI’s investigation on the decoupling of coaches last November 16.

In the said inspection, MRT engineers showed NBI the system of attachment of trains. – Joan Nano | UNTV News & Rescue

https://www.untvweb.com/news/dotr-eyes-return-of-sumitomo-corporation-as-mrt-3-maintenance-provider/

DOTr announces 4-point strategy to improve MRT service

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) on Wednesday has announced a four-point strategy of “taking bold and strategic steps” to improve the services and to solve the problems troubling the Metro Rail Transit 3.

“A Four-Point Strategy is already being implemented, which involves: promoting accountability (termination of BURI); ensuring continued service delivery (establishment of the Maintenance Transition Team); contracting a qualified maintenance and rehabilitation service provider (Sumitomo-Mitsubishi Heavy); putting in place a long-term, single-point-of-responsibility, operator and maintenance provider for MRT-3 (O&M Unsolicited Proposal),” DOTr said in a statement.

Promoting Accountability

Among these steps was to ‘promote accountability’ by the termination of the contract with BURI on November 6 due to its failure  to meet the performance indicators in the contract, to procure spare parts, to overhaul MRT-3’s train cars, as only 2 out of 43 train cars have been overhauled by BURI.

“These failures led to the many passenger unloading and train removal incidents during the 22 months that BURI was maintaining MRT-3…BURI’s termination is intended to promote accountability, and to ensure that taxpayers’ money (P54 million a month for maintenance and P907 million for the overhaul) is not spent on a non-performing service provider,” it added.

Continued Service Delivery

After the termination of the BURI contract, the DOTr has created a Maintenance Transition Team (MTT) that would maintain the system for 3-6 months while procuring a new and qualified maintenance service provider.

The MTT has also hired 450 former BURI employees. Meanwhile, LRTA and PNR also shared “highly qualified and experienced” railway engineers to the MTT.

“The condition of MRT-3’s spare parts inventory at take over further demonstrated BURI’s failure to purchase and maintain a sufficient level of spare parts. To address this, the DOTr created a special Bids and Award Committee (BAC), which, together with the MTT, is regularly convening to expeditiously procure the spare parts that BURI failed to purchase,” DOTr said.

Maintenance and Rehabilitation Service Provider

The department is also discussing with Japan for the possible return of Sumitomo Corporation and its technical partner Mitsubishi Heavy Industries as maintenance service provider of the MRT-3.

“A G2G (Government to government) agreement is scheduled to be signed before year-end…Sumitomo and Mitsubishi Heavy designed, built, and maintained the MRT-3 in its first 12 years of operations,” DOTr said.

“The maintenance and rehabilitation contract is intended to have a term of 3 years, and will include the rehabilitation and restoration of the system to its original performance standards,” it added.

Long-Term, Single-Point-of-Responsibility, O&M Provider

The DOTr also said that the problems of MRT resulted from short-term and fragmented maintenance contracts and from “finger-pointing” due to having different entities maintaining and operating MRT-3.

To address this, the department pursued an Unsolicited Proposal for the 30-year operation and maintenance (O&M) of MRT-3

The DOTr also said they are already coordinating with the LTFRB and MMDA to expand the P2p bus fleet that will complement the MRT-3.

“Also, an independent safety audit by an ISO-certified and IFIA member certifier (International Federation of Inspection Agencies) will commence soon for the entire MRT-3 system, which is intended to give DOTr additional inputs on the interventions needed to rehabilitate and restore the system’s reliability,” DOTr said.

“With the bump in ridership expected as we approach the holidays, the public can be assured that the DOTr is pursuing all avenues to restore the MRT-3’s reliability and to continue ensuring the safety of its 500,000 daily riders,” it said.

Japan aid eyed in MRT 3 rehab

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) wants to bring back the Japanese group involved in the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT 3) construction and design 18 years ago in a bid to resolve breakdowns that disrupt the journey of thousands of commuters on a near-daily basis.

The DOTr said yesterday it was holding high-level talks with the Japanese government for Sumitomo Corp. and its technical partner, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, to maintain and rehabilitate the MRT 3 via an indicative three-year agreement—backed by a fresh loan from Japan.

It hopes to sign the agreement before the end of 2017.

Sumitomo-Mitsubishi maintained the MRT 3 for its first 12 years of operations. The agreement was not renewed in 2012 under the Aquino administration when the 17-kilometer MRT 3, which traverses the crucial Edsa highway, was already showing signs of strain.

Aquino-era officials said the tandem had imposed conditions they could not accept, including increasing the monthly maintenance fee to $2.2 million from $1.4 million while cutting back on certain responsibilities covering fare collection and the MRT 3 signaling system. Local companies were hired instead but the problems at the MRT 3 did not abate.

The DOTr’s announcement yesterday came less than a month since it formally terminated the contract of previous maintenance provider Busan Universal Rail halfway through its three-year agreement due to continued glitches and for not meeting certain obligations.

The new direction with Sumitomo also casts the spotlight on the MRT3 rehabilitation, maintenance and operations offer of Ayala Corp. and Metro Pacific Investments Corp., which was already granted original proponent status. It likewise reflects the Duterte administration’s general skepticism on the private sector funding big infrastructure projects.

“The joint venture of Sumitomo and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries is being closely considered due to its background and experience with the MRT 3,” the DOTr said in a statement.

The DOTr did not detail the target loan amount under the Japanese overseas development assistance (ODA) component. The department said the intention was for Sumitomo-Mitsubishi to “rehabilitate and restore the system to its original performance condition.”

“Due to under-investment in preventive maintenance and renewal works in recent years, the condition of MRT 3 has degraded to a state where maintenance works alone are no longer sufficient,” the DOTr said.

The department also clarified that these were direct talks with Japanese counterparts and that businessman Robert Sobrepeña was not involved. Sobrepeña, part of the group with private interests in the MRT 3, said last May that Sumitomo offered to rehabilitate the MRT 3 for $150 million (P7.5 billion).

https://business.inquirer.net/241699/japan-aid-eyed-mrt-3-rehab

MOVING FORWARD: BOLD AND STRATEGIC STEPS BEING TAKEN TO IMPROVE THE MRT-3

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) is taking bold and strategic steps to solve the problems that have been plaguing the MRT-3 for years.

A Four-Point Strategy is already being implemented, which involves:

- promoting accountability (termination of BURI);
- ensuring continued service delivery (establishment of the Maintenance Transition Team);
- contracting a qualified maintenance and rehabilitation service provider (Sumitomo-Mitsubishi Heavy); 
- putting in place a long-term, single-point-of-responsibility, operator and maintenance provider for MRT-3 (O&M Unsolicited Proposal).

Point 1: Promoting Accountability

Last Nov. 6, DOTr terminated BURI’s maintenance service contract due to, among others, BURI’s non-performance of its obligations under the contract.

BURI failed to perform its maintenance obligations, both due to its inability to meet the performance indicators in the contract (e.g. number of trains running) and its failure to procure spare parts.

BURI also failed to perform its obligation to overhaul MRT-3’s train cars, pursuant to a schedule that was proposed by BURI itself. As of 21 November 2017, only 2 out of 43 train cars have been overhauled by BURI.

These failures led to the many passenger unloading and train removal incidents during the 22 months that BURI was maintaining MRT-3.

BURI’s termination is intended to promote accountability, and to ensure that taxpayers’ money (PhP54 million a month for maintenance and PhP907 million for the overhaul) is not spent on a non-performing service provider.

Point 2: Continued Service Delivery

The DOTr prepared for the take over of the maintenance of MRT-3 by creating a Maintenance Transition Team (MTT), which will maintain the system for 3-6 months while procuring a new and qualified maintenance service provider.

The MTT ensured that it has the necessary human resources, by directly hiring more than 450 former BURI employees. After months of delayed and partial salaries, the MTT has paid the direct hires their salaries in full and on time, which has boosted their morale.

The LRTA and PNR have also thrown in their support to the MTT, by sharing highly qualified and experienced railway engineers to the MTT.

The condition of MRT-3’s spare parts inventory at take over further demonstrated BURI’s failure to purchase and maintain a sufficient level of spare parts. To address this, the DOTr created a special Bids and Award Committee (BAC), which, together with the MTT, is regularly convening to expeditiously procure the spare parts that BURI failed to purchase.

Point 3: Maintenance and Rehabilitation Service Provider

High-level discussions with the Government of Japan are ongoing to pave the way for DOTr’s direct engagement of Sumitomo Corporation and its technical partner Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, under a Government to Government (G2G) Official Development Assistance (ODA) platform. A G2G agreement is scheduled to be signed before year-end.

Sumitomo and Mitsubishi Heavy designed, built, and maintained the MRT-3 in its first 12 years of operations.

The maintenance and rehabilitation contract is intended to have a term of 3 years, and will include the rehabilitation and restoration of the system to its original performance standards.

Point 4: Long-Term, Single-Point-of-Responsibility, O&M Provider

Many of MRT-3’s problems in recent years resulted from successive short-term and fragmented maintenance contracts, and from finger-pointing due to having different entities maintaining and operating MRT-3.

DOTr is addressing this by pursuing an Unsolicited Proposal for the 30-year operation and maintenance (O&M) of MRT-3. Original proponent status has been given to the proponent, Metro Pacific Light Rail Corporation (MPLRC), and the proposal will soon be endorsed to NEDA for further evaluation.

Other Efforts

The DOTr is already coordinating with the LTFRB and MMDA in expanding the P2P bus fleet that will complement the MRT-3.

Also, an independent safety audit by an ISO-certified and IFIA member certifier (International Federation of Inspection Agencies) will commence soon for the entire MRT-3 system, which is intended to give DOTr additional inputs on the interventions needed to rehabilitate and restore the system’s reliability.

With the bump in ridership expected as we approach the holidays, the public can be assured that the DOTr is pursuing all avenues to restore the MRT-3’s reliability and to continue ensuring the safety of its 500,000 daily riders.

Will Martin Nievera dare to sing Iran's national anthem his way?

Outside of Americans and Filipinos, can you recall other nationals who sang their national anthems during a public event in a way that deviated from the traditional beat?

It’s not surprising that the disrespectful practice was popularized by showbiz personalities who are always trying to be different or just simply trying to be noticed. They justify it as the freedom of artistic expression.

Many Filipinos are the ‘monkey see, monkey do’ types when something is started by Americans. Now, we have this recent controversy of pop singer Martin Nievera after he sang our national anthem (before the Pacman-Hitman Las Vegas fight) to a different beat.

Martin Nievera was first called to task by Ambeth Ocampo of the National Historical Institute for violating Section 37, Chapter II of Republic Act 8491, or the Flag and Heraldic Code of the Philippines. The law provides penalties – a jail term and fine – for violations. Nievera did not only violate a revered tradition but he also broke the law.

Representative Teddy Casiño also reacted and proposed a Congressional investigation to clarify once and for all the protocol on the singing or playing of the National Anthem.

In the STAR May 6 front page story penned by Jess Diaz, Casiño cited Nievera in House Resolution 1137 for singing the Lupang Hinirang “in a manner not in keeping with the original arrangement of its composer Julian Felipe.”

Lupang Hinirang should be sung in a marching-type tempo, within the range of 100 to 120 metronome, in 4/4 beat and 2/4 beat when played.

The NHI, in coordination with the proper government agency, shall disseminate an official music score sheet that reflects the manner in which the national anthem should be played or sung.
Individuals whose faith prohibit them from singing Lupang Hinirang must still show full respect.

The national anthem, however, would not be allowed to be played and sung preceding "events of recreation, amusement, or entertainment purposes."

But the anthem may be played during the following: international competitions where the Philippines is the host or has a representative; national and local sports competitions, during the "signing off" and "signing on" of radio broadcasting and television stations, before the initial and last screening of films and before the opening of theater performances; Provided, that the owners and management of the establishments shall be mandated to enforce proper decorum and implement the pertinent provisions of this act; and other occasions as may be allowed by the NHI.

The Oath of Patriotism (Panatang Makabayan) must be recited after the singing of the national anthem in basic education institutions. The Pledge of Allegiance to the Philippine Flag (Panunumpa ng Katapatan sa Watawat ng Pilipinas) may be recited as well, though the law did not specify who is required to do so.

Julian Felipe composed the national anthem to capture the spirit of the Philippine Revolution against Spain – hence the martial beat. Casiño commented that Nievera sang the national anthem as if it were a ballad.

“Mr. Nievera is not the first artist who sang the national anthem in a different style and tempo. As in the past, such non-traditional renditions elicit much debate among policymakers and the public at large as to the proper way of singing the Lupang Hinirang and whether artists have the license to deviate from tradition,” Casiño added.

Casiño named Charice Pempengco and Jennifer Bautista (there were more actually) as entertainers who have deviated from the traditional rendition while Karylle, Kyla and Ciara Sotto sang it in the traditional manner.

Nievera found support from Cabinet Secretary Silvestre “Bebot” Bello III and Leah Navarro of the Black and White Movement. Bello said Nievera sang it in ‘good faith’ which makes us wonder if stealing in ‘good faith’ clears a plunderer. Navarro said a mouthful.

Per Navarro, “I do not care how people sing it, whether it’s rap or out of tune, for as long as they know how to sing it. That is, has sense of self.” Navarro justified the mangling of the beat of the national anthem so long as the lyrics are “sung from the heart.”

The next plunderer that Navarro and her group will denounce should then just respond to them that the mega theft was committed with the sincerest prodding of his heart.

Nievera also found support from Manny Pacquiao who even offered to sing the national anthem the next time. But then, outside of boxing, what does Pacquiao really know?

It was reported that Ryan Cayabyab warned Nievera before the fight not to change the beat. Yet, when informed of the controversy that his rendition of the national anthem spawned at home, Nievera said to ABS-CBN that he did nothing wrong.

Outside of the legal issue, we must wonder if Nievera ever considered the historical and traditional aspects of the national anthem that should compel anyone tasked to sing it in an international event to follow its set guidelines. Respect for a national tradition should prevail over an ego trip for being different.

If Nievera sang and misrepresented the national anthem of Iran like he misrepresented the Philippine national anthem, he will find comradeship with Salman Rushdie who has been dodging for two decades now the late Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini’s fatwa (execution order) for writing The Satanic Verses.

On different occasions, Luciano Pavarotti, Placido Domingo, and Jose Carreras – the famous three tenors – all sang La Donna en mobile and Nessun dorma. Do you recall any of them mangling the beat of these opera classics?

Never! And that is because they know better not to even think of doing that. They know that some things in this world are not to be altered. They had too great a respect for the artist who created the musical composition.

But then, the late Luciano Pavarotti and the surviving two tenors are genuine artists who have earned the recognition of the world of art and culture. Over here many of us easily elevate mere entertainers to the exalted level of artists without even knowing what differentiates the two.

Without as much as a law to mandate how they ought to sing La Donna en mobile and Nessun dorma and all those other opera classics – Pavarotti, Domingo and Carreras respected the original compositions.

So, who are these Martin Nieveras, Charice Pempengcos and Jennifer Bautistas – who are mere entertainers and have not even earned the right to claim to be genuine artists – to sing our national anthem differently?

The embodiment of the history and aspirations of our nation in a song, without even a law to define how it must be sung – freedom of artistic expression cannot justify singing the national anthem differently.

#BENCH30: Bench Universe with Enchong and Arron

Nike La Salle Tee + arena aile-bleue

ARN-4091 swimcap

AGL-1400_ EMBL goggle

2011 Nike La Salle Tee

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NLEX Harbor Link Segment 10 to be completed by March 2018

THE North Luzon Expressway (NLEx) Harbor Link Segment 10, an elevated expressway linking MacArthur Highway in Valenzuela City and C-3 Road in Caloocan City, is projected to be operational by the end of the first quarter of 2018.

“We expect to finish the project by early next year, anticipating complete delivery of the remaining right-of-way (ROW) by end of this month,” this was announced by Raul Ignacio, NLEx Corp. senior vice president for tollways development and engineering, at the launch of the Department of Public Works and Highways’s Infra Track App and inspection of the Segment 10 project.

Metro Pacific Investments Corp. (MPIC) President Jose Ma. Lim and Nlex Corp. officials hosted the “Build, Build, Build” team, led by Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea, Public Works Secretary Mark A. Villar, Transportation Secretary Arthur P. Tugade, Budget Secretary Benjamin E. Diokno, and Bases Conversion and Development Authority President Vince B. Dizon during a site inspection of the Nlex Harbor Link Segment 10.

Featured as one of the big-ticket projects in the Build, Build, Build infrastructure plan, the NLEx Harbor Link Segment 10 is envisioned to alleviate Metro Manila’s traffic congestion and drive commerce between the Harbor area and Central and North Luzon. It is seen to advance transport logistics and facilitate efficient delivery of goods.

At present, the Nlex Corp. has accelerated construction on the recently turned over ROW areas in Valenzuela and Caloocan.

Through the efforts of the DPWH right-of-way task force, the local governments of Caloocan and Valenzuela, and Philippine National Railways (PNR) management, the Poblacion Public Market in Caloocan City and the Tullahan River-San Francisco area in Valenzuela City were cleared.

“We are fast-tracking the turnover of the remaining right-of-way needed to complete Segment 10,” said Villar, noting that “with the help of our Infra Track App, we will be able to closely monitor the developments of projects like this that will decongest Metro Manila and boost investments in the country.”

The P10.5-billion Nlex Harbor Link Segment 10 traverses Karuhatan in Valenzuela City, Governor Pascual Avenue in Malabon City, and C-3 Road in Caloocan City.

Meanwhile, ROW acquisition and initial construction activities are ongoing for the 2.6-kilometer Radial Road 10 section of the Nlex Harbor Link Segment 10 from C-3 Road in Caloocan City to R-10 in Navotas City.

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SM MALLS IN CALABARZON by 2020 Onwards

CAVITE

SM City Bacoor - 120,202 m²
General Aguinaldo Highway cor. Tirona Highway, Brgy. Habay II, Bacoor, Cavite

SM City Dasmariñas - 206.145 m²
Governor's Drive, Brgy. Sampaloc 1, Dasmariñas, Cavite

SM City Molino - 52,061 m²
Paliparan-Molino-Zapote Road cor. Citihomes Subdivision Access Road, Brgy. Molino IV, Bacoor, Cavite

SM City Rosario - 60,657 m²
General Trias Drive, Brgy. Tejeros Convention, Rosario, Cavite

SM City Trece Martires - 83,783 m²
Governor's Dr. cor. Capital Rd., Brgy. San Agustin, Trece Martires, Cavite

SM Center Imus - 24,000 m²
Brgy. Alapan I-C, Imus City, Cavite

SM City Tagaytay* - 120,000 - 140,000 m²
Tagaytay-Nasugbu Rd., Kaybagal South, Tagaytay City, Cavite

LAGUNA

SM City Sta. Rosa - 116,463 m²
Old National Highway, Brgy. Tagapo, Santa Rosa, Laguna

SM City San Pablo - 79,164 m²
Maharlika Highway, Riverina Residential and Commercial Estates, Brgy. San Rafael, San Pablo, Laguna

SM City Calamba - 73,662 m²
National Highway, Calamba City Triangle, Brgy. Real, Calamba, Laguna

SM Center Dita/SM Center Sta. Rosa-Cabuyao - 25,000-30,000 m²
Old National Highway, Brgy. Dita, Santa Rosa, Laguna

SM Santa Rosa Yulo Premier* - 143,000 - 165,000 m²
Santa Rosa - Tagaytay Rd., Sto. Domingo, Santa Rosa, Laguna

SM City San Pedro - TBA*
San Pedro, Laguna

SM City Cabuyao - TBA*
Cabuyao, Laguna

BATANGAS

SM City Batangas - 80,350 m²
Pastor Village, Brgy. Pallocan Kanluran, Batangas City, Batangas

SM City Lipa - 72,045 m²
Ayala Highway, Brgy. Marauoy, Lipa, Batangas

SM Center Lemery - 23,820 m²
Ilustre Ave., Brgy. Poblacion, Lemery, Batangas

SM City Tanauan*
Tanauan City, Batangas

SM Sto. Tomas*
Sto. Tomas, Batangas

RIZAL

SM City Taytay - 98,928 m²
Manila East Road, Brgy. Dolores, Taytay, Rizal

SM City Masinag - 96,313 m²
Marcos Highway, Brgy. Mayamot, Masinag, Antipolo, Rizal

SM Center Angono - 41,481 m²
Manila East Road, Brgy. San Isidro, Angono, Rizal

SM City San Mateo - 80,043 m²
Gen. Luna Avenue, Brgy. Ampid 1, San Mateo, Rizal

SM Cherry Antipolo - 27,224 m²
Marcos Highway, Antipolo, Rizal

SM City Binangonan*
Binangonan, Rizal

SM City Montalban*
Rodriguez, Rizal

SM City Cainta*
Cainta, Rizal

QUEZON

SM City Lucena - 78,655 m²
Maharlika Highway cor. Dalahican Road, Brgy. Ibabang Dupay, Lucena, Quezon

*Rumored/planned mall

Salceda: Big infra offers to hasten PPP bill

Recent unsolicited offers from giant conglomerates to fund and undertake big-ticket infrastructure projects will surely spur the country’s economic growth and will likely speed up the passage of House Bill 788 or the PPP Rationalization Act, the enhanced Public-Private Partnership bill now pending in Congress.

Albay Rep. Joey Sarte Salceda, who authored HB 788, said the Filinvest-RLC-JG Summit Holdings consortium’s offer to build the P839-billion Clark International Airport, and San Miguel Corp.-RSA’s tender to build the proposed P700-billion Bulacan Airport, both under the PPP scheme, will trigger his bill’s passage.

The congressional technical working group that Salceda heads has already drafted a substitute measure for the enhanced PPP bill. It provides clearer parameters on unsolicited proposals, limiting the original proponent status to only one year, and compelling the proponent to work on its execution and giving other players the crack once it expires, he said.

The lawmaker said an enhanced PPP Program “with clearer and simpler rules that foster competition while keenly protecting public interest” is what the government needs as a pillar of infrastructure development, especially with the entry of players encouraged by President Duterte’s “Build, Build, Build” campaign.

The consortium’s offer for Clark is more than 400 percent higher than its previous proposal, Salceda noted. It recently submitted its new tender to the Bases Conversion and Development Authority and the Department of Transportation.

The consortium also proposes to develop, operate and maintain the commercial assets of the Clark International Airport, which include facilities for general aviation, fixed-base operations and real estate, according to reports.

San Miguel-RSA, on the other hand, has already obtained an original proponent status for the P700-billion Bulacan Airport project.

Salceda said these and other upcoming proposals from big players aiming to latch on to the country’s “Golden Era of Infrastructure” bandwagon under the “Build, Build, Build” program, need an enhanced and strong PPP with clearer parameters.

“These offers from giant players prove the private sector’s renewed trust in the government, which need to be backed up by reforms,” he added.

The Albay lawmaker said his PPP bill aims to accelerate the implementation of the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2017-2022, under which giant transport and industrial projects are listed.

He said big ticket projects, such as the Clark and Bulacan projects, need clearer and simpler rules towards faster implementation and protection of public interest, which HB 788 provides.

The enactment of the PPP Rationalization Act is seen to help fund up to P6.3 trillion projects under the Duterte’s “Build, Build, Build” program.

Based on the PDP 2017-2022, Salceda said the country would require “an intensified infrastructure spending and better selected infrastructure investments to support a higher growth trajectory and improved quality of life in both urban and rural communities.”

HB 788 also seeks the creation of a “Risk Management Fund to ensure fiscal sustainability and enhance the ability of implementing agencies (IAs) in the discharge of their contractual obligations.”

It also provides the necessary “Investment Recovery Schemes” within allowable brackets that are “revenue- based, availability-based, and other non-monetary incentives (e.g. commercial development rights, or the grant of a portion or percentage of the reclaimed land),” said Salceda.

The proposed legislation sets the “maximum allowable revenue/return at post-tax weighted average cost of capital or WACC, based on comparable businesses using established methodologies such as capital asset pricing model or CAPM. The reforms introduced by HB 788 provide for:

1) Clearer and simpler rules leading to faster decision points that are “time-bound and decision maker-specific procedures on Project Approval, reduced current project timetable of 30 months to 18-24 months, and increased threshold amount of PPP projects to be approved;

2) Enhanced competition and protection of public Interest, with its new framework on unsolicited projects (USP) that would allow their inclusion m the priority list, or convert USP into solicited projects subject to reasonable compensation of the original proponent, and provide a more competitive challenge period – maximum 6 months, and the adoption of a Best and Final Offer (BAFO) rule;

3) Promotion of public infrastructure and financing, with the inclusion of joint venture as a PPP variant, and harmonize all PPP modalities under one legal framework, exemption from any and all taxes, fees and charges for select PPP projects of “national significance,” providing incentives for the private sector to enter the PPP, standard guidelines on taxes and permits for all PPP projects, and inclusion of PPPs in the Investment Priority Plan; and 4) Good governance.

http://manilastandard.net/sunday-lgu-section-pdf/ncr/252118/salceda-big-infra-offers-to-hasten-ppp-bill.html

New rail projects in, informal settlers out

CLARK FREEPORT — Thousands of informal settlers would be moved out of communities that mushroomed around rail tracks that the Department of Transportation (DOTr) would revive for two new train projects connecting Manila to Clark and Manila to the Bicol region, according to officials.

The tracks belonged to the Philippine National Railways (PNR).

Timothy John Batan, assistant transportation secretary for railways, said the government would use right of way already owned by PNR.

The National Housing Authority (NHA) would have to remove 18,455 families from PNR tracks in Bulacan and Pampanga provinces. Shanties along or on railroad tracks had been called homes “along da riles” (homes along the tracks), after the popular 1990s television comedy series “Home Along Da Riles,” which starred the late comedian Dolphy.

Batan said the DOTr would work with the NHA, the Social Housing Finance Corp., the Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council, local governments and other agencies to resettle these families.

41,000 families

Covered by the new projects were 41,000 families in the cities of Malabon, Caloocan and Valenzuela in Metro Manila; the towns of Meycauayan, Marilao, Bocaue, Balagtas and Guiguinto, and the City of Malolos in Bulacan; and the towns of Apalit, San Simon and San Luis, and the cities of San Fernando, Angeles and Mabalacat in Pampanga.

It was not immediately known how many informal settlers had been transferred to relocation sites, how many had remained at the tracks and how many had moved back.

The Japanese and Chinese governments would finance the construction of the Manila-Clark and Manila-Bicol railways.

A Japanese loan would finance the Manila-Clark railway project, which became possible after the DOTr and Chinese-state-run firm Sinomach (China National Machinery Industry Corp.) resolved to drop legal and arbitration cases over the shelved Northrail project linking Caloocan City to the City of Malolos.

Controversies

Questions over the validity of the project delayed it by almost 10 years and arbitration proceedings dragged on for another five years.

PNR Phase 1, which runs from Tutuban in Divisoria, Manila, to Malolos, costs P105 billion. Phase 2 from Malolos to Clark requires a P211 billion outlay.

Batan said these two phases of the Manila-to-Clark railway had been approved by the board of the National Economic and Development Authority and would be bid out “but only among Japanese contractors.” —Tonette Orejas

Read more: http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/944891/new-rail-projects-in-informal-settlers-out#ixzz4yJyohJ3w
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Chiqui Roa-Puno and William Thio at Quirino Grandstand (August 19-20, 2017)

For Roa-Puno and Thio, are they being flanked by former “Kapwa Ko, Mahal Ko” co-hosts Boots Anson Roa-Rodrigo, Rosa Rosal and Toni Rose Gayda, Bea Binene, Jim Paredes, David's Salon owner David Charlton, international rapper apl.de.ap, Matteo Guidicelli, Paul Jake Castillo, Ivan Carapiet, Erwan Heussaff, Adrien Semblat, Drew Arellano, Raymart Santiago, Ryan Agoncillo, Bubbles Paraiso, Sam YG, Gilbert Remulla, Anthony and Maricel Laxa-Pangilinan, Sid Maderazo, Ivan Mayrina, Dyan Castillejo, Paolo Abrera, Kim Atienza, Raffy Tima, Dingdong Dantes, Piolo Pascual, Gerald Anderson, Jake Cuenca, Isabelle Daza, apl.de.ap, Enchong Dee, Gretchen Fullido, Christine Jacob-Sandejas, Kim Chiu and Solenn Heussaff, CEOs and businessmen Ariana Khu, Bryce Maddock, Liloan, Cebu Vice Mayor Vincent Frasco, Raymund Martin Magdaluyo, Francis Miguel, Lance Watson, Joshua Schott, Gregory Karpinski, Century Pacific Food Inc.’s Gregory Banzon, Mark Schwartz, Alex Wasilewski, Victor Consunji, Tom Navasero and Ironman Asia-Pacific CEO Geoff Meyer, Anthony Suntay, Duane Santos, Jovie Villar, James Younghusband, Tweetie de Leon-Gonzalez, ASEAN Law Association of the Philippines president and ACCRALaw founding partner and former Defense Secretary Avelino Cruz, Jr., retired Supreme Court Chief Justice Artemio Panganiban and wife Leni, virtuoso concert pianist Dr. Jose Artemio Panganiban III, Baron Travel Corporation president and CEO Marilen Sandejas-Yaptangco, Dr. Archie Panganiban and Professor Tet Mañalac, Metro Manila Community Orchestra executive director Chingay Diaz-Lagdameo, Zenas Lozada, Rosario Jurado-Benedicto, Lizzie and Mon Hermosura, ACCRALaw co-managing partner Gina Padilla-Gealdez, Atty. Alan Tantoco, Tim Yap, Rissa Mananquil-Trillo; Randy Precilla, Peter Hager, Ben Wintle, Phil Younghusband, Margot Garcia, Rhett Eala, Phoemela Baranda, former Foreign Affairs Secretary Delia Albert, Macay Holdings, Inc. Chairman and Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Ambassador Alfredo Yao, Audrey Tan-Zubiri, Dolly Guanzon, lawyers Irene Garcia, Lorna Kapunan and Sonya Castillo of Kapunan, Garcia & Castillo Law Firm, multi-awarded furniture designer Kenneth Cobonpue and The Tinder Box owner Aziza Mondoñedo with Marlene Mondoñedo, Marie Lozano, Joey Mead-King and Ian King, Cosmopolitan fashion director Donna Cuna-Pita, George Gordon, architect Gil Coscolluela, Tad Abello, Aly Borromeo, Patrice Ramos-Diaz, Apples Aberin, Baba Parma; Ernie Lopez, Gutsy Tuason, Teddy Dario, Anton del Rosario, Leah Puyat, Ralby Tambunting, Marissa Tambunting, Anton Barretto, Eds Genuino, Angelette Calero, Henry Chan, Valerie Lim, Tonichi Nocom, JC Buendia, Izza Gonzales-Agana, Randy Ortiz, Suyen Chi-Sia, Henri Calayag, Trishan Cuaso, Aaron Isip, Cristalle Henares-Pitt, Jonathan and Stephanie Zubiri-Crespi, Keren Pascual, Anton San Diego, Mons Romulo-Tantoco, Arnold Vegafria, Ludovic Branellec, Bambina Olivares, Joanna Preysler Francisco, Abba Napa, Ben Chan, Noel Manapat and Miguel Pastor, Department of Public Works and Highways spokesperson and undersecretary for legal affairs Atty. Karen Jimeno, 2015 Adidas Celebrity Squash Challenge tournament officials and national squash coach Ricky Espinola, Ed Aguilando, Arnel Begornia, Jun Almaida and Mac Begornia, power mother and daughter tandem Regal Entertainment, Inc. executive producer Mother Lily Monteverde and Roselle Monteverde-Teo, Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. (Philippines) general manager Francis Soliven, SM Group marketing manager Karen Fagara, SM Megamall Ortigas mall manager Jocelyn Lapid, SM Assistant Vice President for Leasing Mitch So, “Urban Time” managing director Linfred Yap, SM assistant vice president for “Premier 2” operations Christian Mathay, SM Megamall assistant mall manager Egbert Lim, SM Foundation executive director for education Carmen Linda Atayde, Jollibee Foods Corporation CEO and President Ato Tanmantiong and founder and chairman and DoubleDragon Properties Corporation Co-Chairman, Sun Life Prosperity Dollar Abundance Fund, Inc. Independent Director Tony Tan-Caktiong, Jollibee president Joseph Tanbuntiong, Jollibee vice president for marketing Harvey Ong, Jollibee AVP for Human Resources Ruth Angeles, Jollibee chief financial officer Ysmael Baysa, Jollibee Foods Corporation and Chowking marketing director Timi Gomez-Aquino, Injap Investments, Inc., DoubleDragon Properties Corporation and People's Hotel Corporation Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Mang Inasal founder Edgar “Injap” Sia II, Top Frontier Investment Holdings, Inc. President and Chief Executive Officer, San Miguel Corporation Vice-Chairman, President and Chief Operating Officer and Cyber Bay Corporation and Eagle Cement Corporation Chairman Ramon Ang, Injap Investments Inc. president Ferdinand K. Constantino, Dr. George S.K. Ty, Toyota Taytay, Rizal, Inc. chairman Severino Lim, Toyota Shaw/Toyota Pasig executive vice president Jonalyn Lim, Toyota Commonwealth, Inc. president William Li, PLDT Chief Financial Adviser Chris Young, Globe Telecom Sales Cluster Head Luigi Reyes, “Pioneer Insurance” president and CEO David Coyukiat, Toyota Motors Philippines Corporation vice chairman and Lexus Manila, Inc. chairman Alfred Ty, Arthur Ty, Mary Ty, Fabian Dee, Metrobank Foundation president Aniceto Sobrepena, Francisco Sebastian, Elvira Ong Chan, Metrobank branch head There Joyce Navarro, Metrobank Makati NSCO head SVP Melissa Guiao, cluster sales head Maria Victoria delos Santos, Toyota Motor Philippines Corporation executive vice president Yohei Murase, senior executive vice president Dr. David Go, Toyota Taytay, Rizal director/treasure Zellyn Lim-Diaz, William Li, Toyota Balintawak president Don Juan Miguel Oben, Toyota Marilao president Apolinario Santos, Jr., Toyota Financial Service President Mototaka Sato, executive vice president Rommel Ocampo, Toyota Dealers Association president Rene So, MAA Assurance president Danny Go, Toyota Taytay, Rizal, Inc. president Arturo Lopez, Azul Land Corporation president Fernando Lim, Don Juan Miguel Oben, Toyota Alabang, Inc. general Manager Johanna See, parts and service manager Emerson See, Toyota Commonwealth assistant general manager Aldrich Li, Kia Philippines president Ginia Domingo and son Francis, Toyota Motors Philippines Corporation first vice president for customer service operations Rainnier Gregorio, Rommel Ocampo, Toyota Otis, Inc. president lawyer Reginaldo Oben, Jojo Racelis, Felice Santa Maria, Claud Marc, Andy Santa Maria and Dr. Louie Racelis, Toyota Motors Philippines Corporation senior vice president Ariel Arias, Toyota Cagayan de Oro president Betty Lu, Toyota Motors Philippines Corporation vice president Lyna Garcia, Josephine Lim, Toyota Quezon Avenue executive vice president and general manager Franklin Lim, Dra. Techie Layson, businessman Jo Marie Layson, Ed Legarda and Rose Legarda, Toyota Shaw, Inc. general manager Libay Magsipoc, Jules Lim, BDO Head Office Corporate Banking Group account officer Stefanie Isis Lim, Metrobank Head Office Corporate Banking Group account officer Jose Conrado Yap, NBCUniversal vice president of channels for Asia Scott Mckenzie, NBCUniversal country manager Liza Latinazo, regional marketing director Hannah Deeth and One Mega Group founder and CEO Sari Yap, “Tickles”, "Apostrophe" and “ROY&BIV” Chief Operating Officer Chunchi Soler, Yoya Tanseco and Carlo Tanseco, "Nail Topics” CEO Gigi San Jose-Daza, "Krispy Kreme" Managing Director Carlyn Salud, “Sarabia Style and Optics”’ Federico and Socorro Sarabia, Cora and Fred Sarabia, "Marcella"'s Beth Co, “Original Penguin”’s Ericson Lee, Suyen Corporation General Manager Jude Ong, BPI’s Amy Orbin An-an King and Millette Recuena, Vista Land President and CEO Manuel Paolo Villar, Enrique Teehankee, Elizabeth Yu-Gokongwei, Vicky Lauchengco, JGSHI President and Chief Operating Officer Lance Gokongwei, Liza Gokongwei-Cheng, Tony Go, Yvette Fernandez, Robinsons Malls General Manager Arlene Magtibay, RSSI’s Ayel Abanlog and Teresa David-Lo, Alexa Panistante, Joshua Generoso, Cecill Panistante, Joana Gaco, Kristine Sumtra, RLC project sales head Ronald Panganiban, Ludy Verada, Girlie Rodriguez, Ryan de Guzman, Stephen Delumen, Marice Ofrin, Robinsons Land Corporation president and COO Frederick Go, SVP for Robinsons Residences and Robinsons Luxuria Mybelle Aragon-Gobio, vice president Sales and Marketing for Robinsons Residences and Robinsons Luxuria May Precilla, vice president Operations Department Kerwin Tan, vice president Project Management Department engineer Emmanuel Arce and assistant vice president Business Development Department Trina Cipriano, RLC sales directors Fort Gonzales and Isaac Aligaen, Isaac Aligen, sales director Leah Guntan and John Antipino, Elizabeth Brown and Anna Luvina, RLC's Lenin Madlangbayan, Isaac Aligaen, May Precilla and Stephen Delumen, RLC business development associate director for Robinsons Residences TJ Luzano, Gino Romero, Marian Santos and Jaime Ramos, RLC senior associate for Recruitment and Training Kathleen Mae Cortina, RLC Network Distribution coordinator Valerie Mae Mijares, RLC executives Mybelle Aragon-Gobio, Robinsons Luxuria account manager Lucille Neriza Valino, sales manager Jerson Bill Garlan, sales director Reynado Antipino III, RLC executives Mybelle Aragon-Gobio, Robinsons Residences senior sales manager Allan Ronald Santiago, account manager Maricar Adorna, RLC's Laiza Cassandra Basa, Tess Atienza, Nancy Vogt, RLC's Jonah Lim, Rica Anne Ko, RLC's Elsa Gutierrez, Amado Eustaqui, Akiko Sumulong, RLC's Mike Santa Ana, Roda Doroteo, Jaime Ramos, RLC's Jill Gutierrez, Jorengel Juezan, Kevin Saclot, Ram Esber, Kimberly, Sherly and Shirley Chen, RLC's Isaac Alifaen, Chen Jui Huei, Huang Dongchua, May Precilla, Ansyl Yap Cadag, Sol de Jesus, Lauren Yap, Richelle Takiadin, Rosemarie, Sheila and Irene Flores, Peter Kawsek, RLC's Jason Reyes, Marilou and Andrew Kawsek, Handyman commercial business manager Lyra Hernandez, Ecoterm Water Heater sales and marketing manager Sugar Canzana, PLDT Home connect key accounts manager Faith Sanchez, Robinsons Land business optimization unit head Jeng dela Torre, PLDT Home marketing support Raul Alvarez, RLC senior vice president Mybell Aragon-Gobio, Robinsons Appliances general manager Hope Tang, marketing services manager Carlo Cadorniga, vice president for sales and marketing of Robinsons Residences and Robinsons Luxuria May Precilla, RLC's Sugar Cornelio with executive sales director Jolan Guevarra, RLC sales manager Boots Carandang and sales director Sonera Gorospe, RLC sales managers Jannet Lopez and Ella Omar, RLC account manager Jessica de Guzman, sales director Lyn Asuncion, account manager Karen Lecaroz, RLC account manager Rodel Salentes, Ronacris Collado, RLC’s Lea Kristina Sudio, Joshua de Leon and Kathryn Hilario, Inocentes Tecala and wife Erlinda, Ignacio Campos, Erlinda Mariano, Jaime Inigo, Maria Mariano, RLC's Jeffrey Pasia, RLC’s Angelo Jay Torregoza, “The Magnolia Residences” unit owner Leo Hernandez, Louie and Ingrid Sison, RLC’s Kunihiro Sato Jover and Joy Nocom, RLC’s Lourdes Cabigao, Audrey and Gabriel Castillo, RLC’s Connie Lumibao Agnes Castillo, Ron Patrick Cuico and Dominic Viray, Ella, Elieen and Len Quimosing, RLC's Jose Bajado, Swanie Lee, RLC’s Federick Cua and Lovina Malapas, RLC's Mary Grace Ouipit, Desiree and Rico Sales, RLC’s Rico Espino, Mene and Eddie Catensa, RCBC Bankard's Irene Taylo, BPI’s Ezer Escolar, venture capitalist Dom Hernandez, entreprenur and restaurateur Trisha Versoza, Ramen Nagi’s Philippine franchise partners Winnie C. Go, Michael James Chua, Carissa Coscolluela, Roxanne Farillas, Enti Coscolluela, Avi Siy-Coscolluela, and Erickson Farillas, Ramen master Satoshi Ikuata, Atushi Kobayashi, Nobuhiro Sonoda, Ryoichi Nishio, Carlos P. Romulo Foundation and Zuellig Family Foundation chairman ambassador Roberto Romulo, United Nations Children's Fund Philippines deputy director Dr. Abull Alim, Asian Development Bank vice president for operation Stephen Groff, Center for Agriculture and Rural Development - Mutally Reinforcing Institutions founder and managing director Dr. Jaime Aristotle Alip, World Bank country director for the Philippines Motoo Konshi, Fukushima University specially appointed professor Satoru Mimura, Zuellig Family Foundation president professor Ernesto Garilao, broadcast journalist Tina Monzon-Palma, Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change vice-chairman professor Jean-Pascal van Ypersele, Ateneo de Manila University president Rev. Fr. Jose Ramon Villarin, Climate Change Commission vice chairman and executive director Secretary Lucille Sering, United Nations Development Programme Philippines resident coordinator Dr. Luiza Carvalho, National Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council executive director Undersecretary Alexander Pama, First Gen Corporation chairman and CEO Federico Lopez, Citoy Lopez, Eva Abesamis, Lopez Holdings Corporation chairman emeritus Oscar Lopez, Berta Lopez-Feliciano, Cedie Vargas, Mitos Santisteban, Mary Ann Ansaldo-Chan, Pilipinas Got Talent production manager and Regional Davao TV production and programming head Ikit Garcia, ABS-CBN Global Limited Philippine country manager Edson Aguiflor, Gina Lopez, Ging Madrigal, Raqui Garcia, Suky Lammoglia, First Philippine Industrial Park, Inc. senior adviser to the president Henry Co, ABS-CBN safety head Martin Aguda and race directors Eric Imperio and Thumbie Remigio, ABS-CBN Global Limited’s CFO and strategic planning head Kai Rodriguez, Skylight Films head and Star Cinema writer, director and Vice President for New Media Enrico Santos, TV headwriter Joel Mercado, Monette Atillano, Annika Aquino, Saripaz Villar, Edgar Medina, Dak Escay, Mia Padilla, Agile Zamora, Jet Brondial, Ana Tecson, Arlene Yu, Sasah Quema, Jayelles' Ina Bugayong and Eg Geron, Linda Tan and Sally Lim, Marissa Fenton and fashion designer Eddie Baddeo, Eimee Cragun, Marie Syjuco and Angie Sison, Carla Mercado and Maila Garcia, Adams Travel's Nema Ocon, Aerial Travel’s Rowena Maglinao, Bon Voyage Travel's Johanna Adornado, Ubud Village Resort representative, Sign and Wonders International's Criselda Claros and RnB Travel and Tours’ Maria Lynn Rellosa, Cordym Travel’s Celine Clemente, Philippine Airlines’ Maria Christina dela Cruz, Travel System's Elvira Villamor, Tripmart Travel's Emerose Poonmark, T.R.I.P.S. Travel's Rose Banares, Ark Travel Vice President for Sales Joie Castro, Wisdom Travel Services' Nelia Arclaga, Arfel Travel's Nadine Karingal, AERA Travel's Christine Estavillo and UniLink Travel's Gabriel Macadangang, Seminyak Beach Resort and Spa senior sales manager Pritha Razad and GM Marie Helene Moreira, Journalist Obed Napitupulu and Love Hotel marketing communications manager Arbella Kusuma, Fashion TV's Michel Adam, Budsan International Corporate General Manager Henry Goh, Love Hotel director of sales and marketing Dewi Lestari with Love Hotel's guest relation officers, Joie Castro, Filinvest Alabang, Inc. executive vice president Catherine Iligan, Filarchipelago Hospitality Service assistant vice president for Hotel Services Francis Gotianun, FLI vice president for Supply Chain Management Michael Edward Gotianum, Festival Supermall Inc. senior vice president for Retail Operations Joy Polloso, FLI AVP for Purchasing Andrew Gotianum III, Muntinlupa City Vice Mayor Artemio Simundac, Capt. Manny Ilagan and daughter Catherine, FAI Senior AVP for Special Projects Daphne Mae Odra-Sanchez Filinvest Tenant Mix manager Alva Montes with Business Development Managers Jonax Dyning and Paul Pascual, Joie Castro and Stephanie Chong, Filinvest Leads Management head Teng Verdadero, Sales Administration Head Regina Nava, FLI VP for Market Research and chief of staff Harriet Ducepec and Filinvest Commercial Centers Vice President and Group Head for Marketing and Exhbits Rose Nuqui, Girlie Benitez, Nestle Gutierrez, Sophie and Paulette Quinto, FAI Senior Manager for Project Development (Residential) Patricia Ann Porto and Filinvest City marketing manager Jennifer Santos, FLI SVP and Cluster Head Francis Cevalios, Filinvest Land, Inc. Assistant Vice President for Purchasing Andrew Gotianun III, Willy Tee-Ten, Filinvest City Project Head Don Ubaldo, B Hotel general manager Jomari Ouano, The Bellevue Hotels & Resorts managing director Patrick Chan, The Bellevue Resort Managing Director Dustin Chan, B Hotels managing director Ryan Chan, The Bellevue Hotels & Resorts chairman Johnny Chan with Edward Co Tan + Architects principal architect Edward Tan and Interior Designer Glenda Po, Minerva Tanseco, Naty Pappas, Lyn Roxas, Dr. Elenita Binay, Dr. Nellie Acosta, Wilma Weibel, Zee Lifestyle publisher Eva Gullas and Fe Boltron, Carmen Campbell, Rosebud Sala, Pacita Sode, Kingsley Medalla, Tamsin and Amanda Booth, Agnes Huettel, Lelet Heredia, Christine Pelaez, Tippi Smith, Romeo Vergara, Camille Oloan, Jon Unson, Liga Jankova, Waterfront Hotel Mactan General Manager Benhur Caballes, Andrew Harrison, Lapulapu Mayor Paz Radaza, Paul Villarete, Jot Chiongbian, Kyra Cabaero, Mia Ali, Manna Alcaraz, Patty Taboada and Yumny Mariot, Cheryl Tiu and Kissa Castaneda-McDermott, Cecille Ang, Finn Carrew, Sandie poblador Chris and Jaime Diaz, Gaby Manas, Joy Wassmer, Katrina Razon, Hans Sy, Jr. and Carol Sy, Sen. Sonny Angara, Leo Po, Jin Perez, Marielle Po, Teresa Herrera-Anthony, Liam Harris, Mikkel Puyat and Alex Eduque, Katrina Goulborun-Feist, Jean Goulbourn, Jeanne and Karina Kebs, Bea Roxas, Tony Rufino, William Co, Conrad Onglao, Anthony Yupangco, Mark Higgins, Richie and Karen Lerma, Trickie Lopa Caloy and Pia Ocampo Adriano Stefanutti, Jessie Sincloco, Gale Atienza, Junie del Mundo, Sen Sanchez and Jerry Paras, Hoseki Corporate Affairs Director Zabeth Co, Rubie Yap-Cruz, Hoseki founder Falco and Miss Chinatown 2014 Nicole Cordoves, Hoseki Operations Manager Harold Co, Dr. Celina Garcia, Atty. Josephina Tapia, Candice and Lyla Ang, Chit Ong, Hoseki head of finance Grace Co, Johnny Litton, Hoseki chief creative officer Knoi Esmane, Pronove Tai & Associates CEO Monique Pronove, Rolini Pineda, Stefan Co, Bianca Li, Roseann and Robina Ko with Grace Ko, Eugene and Bonnie Lemi with Knoi Esmane, Ambassador Victor Garcia, Palmy Layug, Zabeth Co, Roi Philips and Duday Tuason, Mars Lambino, Ana Tecson, Eni Alba and Sally Hofilena, Pasig City Administrator Atty. Reynaldo Dionisio, Minami Saki owner and Astoria Hotels and Resorts president Jeffrey Ng, Sen. Bam Aquino, STAR’s Christine Dayrit, Astoria Hotels and Resorts chief operating officer Vivian Ng, Minami Saki executive chef Kimito Katagari, Anthony Cuaycong, Asian Grand Legacy president Miguel Cerdqueda, Danny Ocampo, Atty. Jose Malvar Villegas, Astoria Hotel Manager Ping Regalado and Jorle Butic, Albert Sikat and Orlando Quiapon, Jenny Dayao, Stef Juan, Astoria PR head John Tanjangco, Monica Herrera, Michael Ng and wife Emily, NutriAsia’s Renante and Edna Soralbo, Astoria sales manager Coralee Tan, Girlie Jovero and Aki Gadayan, Minami Saki restaurant designer Architect Ed Gallego and wife Bernadette, Plantation Bay Resort and Spa online marketing manager Milal Legaspi, human resources manager Colleen Barcelona, events coordinator Paige Gingete, Rocel Gonzaga, The Palace hotel executives with Plantation Bay Duty Manager Christine Noval, spa manager Chokie Ortiz, special project assistant Malou dela Rosa, public relations officer Hannah Lood and MIS manager Cherry Allego, Xavier Ryan Singh, Daphne Odra-Sanchez, Jen Santos and Richard Alarcon, Boom Sason and Aaron Azreg, Hideo Muraoka and Fatima Rabago and daughter Danda, Sam Richelle and son Myles, Marbee Shing Go and Frank Briones, Swiss Embassy Consul Hans-Peter with Hye-Won FItze, Queen Lema, Raoul Imbach and Jan Hargreaves, The Swiss Yodel Ladies, Debbie Ner, Cristina del Carmen, Brittany Corporation's team Erwin Mosura, Michelle Bilan, Maria Teresa Paloma, Juvy Geneveo, Andrea Fabian, Michelle Barrientos, General Manager Trixie Dial, Jeaneane Panizales, James Menil, Carla Cadiz, Martin Lim, Cristel Antonio and Jahmina Jeresano, Mabelle and Nonong Torino and children Bettina, Nicko and Anton, Nicole, Theresa, Beatriz, Walbert and Alyssa Vicencio, Albert Yeoh, Alessandra Herrera, Kim Jin Wook, Jen Noel, Gordon and Willow Grae Docherty with Geraldine Guevarra, Diana Jeresano and daughter Jahmina, Ron and Malen Cabatuan and children Arkin and Anesca, Brittany Corporation's Carla Cadiz, Lea Bulatao and Carmina Pariotes, Danielle Borja and Matthew Areglado, Imee de Villa and daughter Louise Andrea, Anton, Bettina and Nicko Torino, Rejean Reposposa, Simon, Yvonne and Sam Raquel with Melve Petalino, Elhison, Elizhka and Indhie Cortez, Angel Estimado and daughter Aera, “YES! Magazine” and PEP.ph editor-in-chief Jo-Ann Maglipon, American Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines, Inc. chairman and director Don Felbaum, Christian Nabeel and wife Michelle Qureshi, Emily Lizares, Anne Tongoy, Karina Jugo, Febe Malata, Marielle Jesena, Rose Lacson, Pilar Mendezona, Mila Legaspi, Jaye Jesena, Salou Keuls, Mel Bascon, Elsie Gonzaga, Agnes Tinsay, marketing consultant and talent manager Jojie Dingcong, Miggy Dingcong Cañete, Binggay Legaspi-de la Paz, St. Scholastica’s Bacolod Alumnae Foundation Inc. board members Christine Velez-Vargas and Chole Cuenca-Chua, Dr. Kat Trebol-Villapando, ABS-CBN senior reporter Henni Espinosa, editorial adviser and West Bay Pilipino Multi Service Center executive director Vivian Zalvidea Araullo, TFC’s former head of news production; multi-awarded videographer Jeremiah Ysip; videographer Joseph Perry; video editor Jon Santos and graphic artists Mike Carrion and Bryan Reynoso, director and ABS-CBN Global’s Head of Theatricals John-D Lazatin, “Philippine STAR” Lifestyle columnist Wilson Lee Flores, businesswoman and housewife Melba Eduardo-Solidum, "Anchor Home Chef" chef consultant Christa Q. Mendiola, Rodclay Roofing, Inc. vice president of sales and marketing and Xáncho chef/owner Marco Rodriguez, design consultant and entrepreneur Astrud Adriano-Crisologo, Nicole Ortega, former actress Joy Ortega, Carlo B. Benavides, Joemer Cahayon and Divine Castillo with son Kenneth, Eva Millan Dantes, Sta. Elena Construction and Development Corporation president and CEO Alice Eduardo, Francis Fonacier, Paul Jacob, Jay Macatuay, Benjo Marquez, Mark Wenson Mendez, Josephine Mendoza and Jay Jerry Enriquez, Jade Javier, Marivic Quiero, Zenaida Molina Ranay, Liam and her mother Direk Joyce Bernal, director Senedy Que, cinematographer Shayne Sarte, Cornerstone Entertainment founder, owner, president and talent manager Erickson Raymundo, Barbara May Reyes, X-Factor Productions, Inc. president Rocky Santiago, Sophia Joyce Uy, Timothy Kaygude, Rex Mendoza, Marco Victoria, Edward Mendez, Hayden Kho, Roseann Coscolluela Villegas, Mike Minana, Nadia Trinidad, Tante Flores, Christine Holo, Tanibel Lee, Aldric Lao, Jenny Pearl Tan, Mark Sid Tan, Aiza Chan, Charmaine Chua, MJ Lee, Suzzane Uy, Richard Ngo, Marvi Lua, Tiffany Ng, Ken Jerrick Lim, Paulina Marie Tan, Monique Yiu, Vincent Haoson, Alexander Richmond Uy, Erickson Jao, Brian Chiu, Jovert Tan Lim, Ays Sytengco, Gliezelle Lao, Charles Lim, Kimber Huang, Lawrence Sy, Henry Gomez, Ian Cheng, Raychelle Tan, Meg Lim Yu, Joanna Marie Sotingco, Girlie Rabo, Kelwin Yu, Dom Lim, Nichelle Sison, Elaine Lua, Stephanie Obiles, Angelina Sy Go, Myles Y. Tan, Michael Lam Gan, Edison K. Ching, Johann Burke Gotauco, Johanson Dy Cheng, Piere Cosiquien, Jherald Burke Gotauco, Sharmaine Sun, Wingyan Wang, Gigi Go and Genevieve Go, Bodyworx Spa and Fitness Club sports director and Mini Car Club of the Philippines president Ken Uy, Morris Gonzales, Lorraine Lee, Kristine Cheryl Lim, Jon James Uy, KaiKai So, Abby Ayroso Enriquez, Billy So, Meg Lim Yu, Ian Cheng, Gilbert Uy, Jonn Terence Dy and Ivan Gerhard Tan, Lynda Monteverde, Eunice Que, Sammyjoe Fu, Annallie Mae Yu and Chika Tolentino, Nat Chu, Janice Tan, Bryan Xeno, Armelie Go, Pearlyn Choco, Kim Kim, Katrina Cassandra Keng Tan, Nyzza Lapitan and Charmaine Nicole Yao, Eunice Que, Cheryl Falsis, Jennilyn Michelle Ong, Lawrence Sy, Monsie Cardenas, Rachelle Lyn Ong and Elaine Ng Sy, Lenin Ang, Rachelle Lim, Justin Uy, Rachel Kong and Anthony Uy, Kevin McHale Yao, Raizza Marie Ong, Alexander Richmond Uy, Mervin Justin Tan, Cheyenne Sy, Jovert Tan Lim, Dr. Ravi Zacharias, Stephen Baldwin, friends at Inspire Leadership Consultancy, Belo Medical Group president and medical director Dr. Vicki Belo, Kerin Ching, childhood friend Lia Anonas, Rem de Vera (Kaladkarin of the Year awardee), Chiyo Tagami, Harriet van den Borne, Rita Nazareno, Takatoshi Kimachi, Drea Zuleta, Ana Galang, Grace Velasco, Erika Tatad, Judd Figueres and Melvin Mojica, Jay Diaz, Fumio Onishi, Harriet van den Borne, Gerome Vizmanos, Joris Spanhoff, Jeroen van Straten and Patty Betita, Primer's Macel Abejero, Lou Bunyi, Primer's managing director Jun Uy, Araneta Group vice chairman Judy Araneta-Roxas, “Philippine STAR” senior vice president for sales and marketing Lucien Dy Tioco, Lei Sison, Janet Dominguez, Roger de Leon, Jay Sarmiento, Aren Cayetano, Jo Lastra, Josielyn Luna-Manuel, Julien Marie Malamig, Alea Ramirez, Jao Malapo, Mark Cunanan, Dya Jill Arenas, Ayala Land Inc. executives country manager Bong Gutierrez and former president and CEO Antonino “Tony” Aquino, Manaya Estate Broker Zahreddin M. Ibrahim, Ayala Land International Sales, Inc. general manager Anna Tatlonghari, ALI Vice President Mr. David San Pedro; ALISI President William Thomas Mirasol; Philippine Ambassador to Singapore, Minda Calaguian-Cruz; Regional Sales Head Alexis Ojeda, International Sales Manager Killian Vea and Associate International Sales Manager Gabriel Lingad, Cultural Center of the Philippines Trustee and Society for Cultural Enrichment, Inc. vice chair Jaime C. Laya, Philippine Daily INQUIRER Lifestyle editor Thelma Sioson-San Juan, Luis Carlo San Juan, Ayala Malls and 20th Century Fox Philippines publicist Mae Vecina, Baby Ruth Villarama, Ayala Malls Marketing Associate Barbie Maceda, Cinemalaya president and Cultural Center of the Philippines adviser Nes Jardin, "Philippine Tatler" Magazine managing editor Chit Lijauco, The Philippine STAR Lifestyle editor Millet Martinez-Mananquil, Robinsons Retail Holdings, Inc. President and Chief Operating Officer Robina Gokongwei-Pe, Dr. Philip Buñag, Liane Bautista, businessman and former La Paz, Tarlac vice mayor Robert Mananquil, STAR’s Regina Belmonte, Xandra Rocha, Altro Mondo's Boy David, Isa Pilapil, Collectors Bio Augustin and Frankie Arellano, Isa Belmonte, Reimon Gutierrez, Claude Tayag, Mandarin Oriental Manila communications director Charisse Chuidian, Former Sen. Nikki Coseteng, Dulzzi and Dia Gutierrez, Maye and Louie Gutierrez, Meps Endaya, Gigi Javier, Agnes Arellano, Menchu Pasqual, Ernie Canlas, Albert Avellana, Peachy Prieto, Italian Ambassador Massimo Roscigno, Paulina Mayorga, Monaco Consul General Fortune Ledesma, Villa Medica Philippines country director Suzette Lopez, Joel Cruz, Wilcon Depot SEVP and COO Rosemarie Ong, Marissa Fenton, former Chilean Ambassador Roberto Mayorga, Salome Dy, Aficionado Germany Perfume and Joel Cruz Signatures president and CEO Joel Cruz, Shelly Lazaro, Agnes Roscigno, Embassy of Venezuela Charge d’Affaires Yelitza Polanco, Yelitza Ventura-Polanco, Marcott Almeda, Jayelles’ Tess Litton, Eti Bar-On, Pronove Tai and Associates CEO Monique Cornelo-Pronove, former Israeli Ambassador Mensahe Bar-On, PT&A agency head John Guibe, PhilCarbon Inc. president Ruth Yu-Owen, Peter Small, Sri and Keith Roy, Vince de Guzman, Peter Rivera, Cristina Bernardo, Charito Cruz, Nonong Cruz, Sheng Chu, Van Castillo and Clariz Sales, Cathay Pacific Philippines country manager Alan Lui, Hong Kong Tourism Board regional director for Southeast Asia Simon Wong, Wilson Yam, former Cathay Pacific Philippines country manager Martin Xu, Cathay Pacific regional manager Wilson Yam, Clark International Airport Corporation president and CEO Victor Jose Luciano, Queenie Gonzales, Isha Andaya-Valles, Pauline Apilado, “BTL Aesthetics” Southeast Asia regional manager Petra Kopecka, Jing Monis, “Allure” editor, Stargate Media Corporation general manager and “PeopleAsia” magazine editor-in-chief Joanne Rae Ramirez, former Camarines Sur Gov. LRay Villafuerte and wife Lara, Raul and Patty Arambulo, Bayer CropScience, Inc. Philippines managing director Dr. Joachim Wegfahrt and wife Gabriella, Carlo Aboboto, Ciara Infantado, Dr. Cecile Infantado, Marielle Infantado, Dr. Aissa Avelino, Patty Aboboto, Billy Sonmez, Tes Schofer, Hera Geriene, 856 G Gallery in Cebu curator Jing Ramos, artist Jewelle Yeung, Flor Inclino, Atty. Joje Decal, Robert and Isabel Vechionni and children Rachel and Lucas, Expat Services office manager Cherry Ann Oyo-a, Plantation Bay account executive Hilary Padilla, Cebu Expat Services owners Paul and Elsa Whiteway, Joan Canoy, Botch Rocamora, Russel Villaceran, Marvey Noble, Happee Go, Grace Glory Go, “Bulgari” country manager Mario Katigbak, Valerie Sotto, Bob Miller, fashion designers Ito Curata and Christian Espiritu, Chichi and Patrick Lizot, Nelia Feuntebella, former Batangas governor Tony Leviste, Becky Garcia, Leonard Tiong and Makati Garden Club’s Sandra Jocson, Lilibeth Campos, Lawyer Edrix Crisologo, Nenunca Bladrdony, Ditas Araneta, Trinin Panicucci, Alice Briones, Linda Kanapi, Babita Anido, Rita Cuna, Nene Lichuaco, Ching Caluag, Nora Robles, Lou Ellen Pineda, Finana Khoh, Nenita Ocampo, Chelet Ayuyao, Tessie Tanjuatco, Elena San Agustin, Nene Feliciano, Rorie Buenaseda, Rosemarie Prieto, Josie Razon, Charito Ampil, Evelyn Kilayko, Patsy Henson, Dody and Charade Galang-Puno, parents Justice Ricardo Puno, Sr. and wife Priscilla, Puno siblings Raul, Ramon, Ronnie, and lawyer Reggie, Charilu, lawyers Rosella, Dong, Roy and Eric, Yolanda Reyno, Eden Nieva, Dr. Marilyn Torres, Mario Tan, Nigel Healey, Philippine Tatler Traveller editor Mia Borromeo, Minotti Manila general manager and Living Innovations president Ferdie Ong, Town & Country magazine founding editor in chief Monique Villonco, Cheling and Susan Sala, Stella Bernabe, Lydia Alfonso, Janet Alfafara, Desmond Hatton, Maggie Garcia, Neil Rumbaoa, BIGSEED PR & Events Managing Director Jaja Chiongbian and Dexter Cheng, Metropolitan Bank and Trust Company former chairman and Philippine Drug Abuse Resistance Education president Dr. Antonio Abacan, Jr., Puno & Puno senior partner Roderico Puno, Andy Bautista and Carmelo Bautista, Shangri-La Boracay Communications manager Patti Javier, Erica Paredes, Arlene Cu, Jacopo Pandolfini Sebastien Papin, Dr. Randy Francisco and “Philippine Tatler” managing director Irene Martel-Francisco, comedian Ate Glow, Ayala Foundation president Vicky Garchitorena, Pinky Marquez, Christine Del Valle, Boboi Costas, Danny Barrientos, Julito Eraña, Anos Fonacier, Gloria Escaño, Rose Alfafara, Tina Bonifacio, Amparo Rodil, Anita Sanchez, Milagros Espina, Merle Cunanan, Juanita Verano, Fe Necesario, Flor Streegan, Inday Avila, Tina Ebrada, Mathea Baguia, Tess Chan, actress and model Maria Persson, Alex Lichaytoo, Export Director of La Masion Paul Jaboulet, Aine Gwenaele Chesnaise, Thibaut Pouplard, Luka Sulic and Stjepan Hauser of 2Cellos, Christine Alba, Marit Yuchengco and Reena Rosario, radio jock and health enthusiast Gelli Victor, Miss Philippines Earth-Water 2012 Samantha Purvor, Sheree Chua, Linda Ley, Jemstone Global Recruitment Agency CEO Jennifer Helen Weigel-Sarmiento, Salome Dy, Cassandra Naidas, Liga Jankova, Anna Bardborn, Laryssa Hsslabecor, Stephany Stefanowitz, Chandra Kewalram with Savannah and Serla Russell, Maryel Lim, Ms. Chinatown Philippines, Inc. executive director Alexis Go, Eve Yukimtlao, Manila Pianos Inc. corporate secretary Gina Ronquillo, "Bravo Filipino" magazine publisher Beth Victoria, Jayelles' Roselle Rebano, Linda Ley and Czarina Syquia, Patty Ang, Yen Guevara, Mary Jane Sy, Grace Ang, Amelia Ting, Kat Florencio, Rima Ostwani, BestWorld Beverage Brands, Inc. president and general manager Edna Diaz, EDSA Shangri-La, Manila general manager Elsa Ang, Karimadon CEO Josie Go, Sunny Vergara, Dr. Aissa Avelino, Patty Aboboto, Billy Sonmez, Tes Schofer, Hera Geriene, Rosario "Mama Charing" Rojas-Villar, Karen Fuentebella, Saripaz Villar, Best Dressed Women of the Philippines awardee Elaine Rojas-Villar, Aida Cobankiat, Ruby Chua, Marissa Fenton, Gabriela Wegfahrt, Eni Alba, Chin and Karima Palafox, Raymund Villanueva, Kat Florencio, Sheree Chua, Manolyne Taylor, Milan Ong and Tiffany Copok and mom Flora Chua, Padolina Rock World Corporation CEO Lynette Padolina, Lawyer Connie Aquino, Allana Montelibano, Hera Geriene and Duday Tuason, Prof. Miriam Tamayo, Nene Pe Lim and daughter Girlie, Baby Antonio, Shelly Lazaro, Grace Ang, Bernard Cloma, Travel Specialist Ventures, Inc. president Rowena Coloma, Morelia Tours and Travel owner Lina Aurelio, Issa Litton, Ayala Theatres Management Inc. marketing manager Rhia Arda, Ayala Theatres Management Inc. Deputy General Manager Atty. Rolly Dueñas, Commercial Business Group Division Manager Marjie Duque, Ayala Land Malls, Inc. president Rowena Tomeldan, Fairview Terraces general manager Liz Gayla, Ayala Land Commercial Business Group Advertising and Promotions Associate Manager Denise Olanday-Lagayan, Ayala Land, Inc. president and CEO Bobby Dy, Rich and Carrie Yang, Stephanie Zubiri, Ayala Malls Marketing Services Division Manager Sandy Espinosa, Ayala Land Inc. Commercial Business Group senior division manager and head of marketing Maricris Bernardino, “Mercato Central” co-founder, TV show host, “The Philippine Star” columnist and Monaco Vice Consul RJ Ledesma, Ayala Land Assistant Vice President Javier Hernandez, Ayala Malls associate marketing manager Mitch Suarez, BPI Family Savings Bank Senior Vice President for Retail Loans Ginbee Go, BPI Family Bank President Nabbie Alejo and Senior Vice President and Ka Negosyo Loans Division Head Cedoy Roces, Alpha Southeast Asia CEO and Publisher Siddiq Bazarwala, Tara Litton, Enrique Chua and daughters Tiffany, Ruby Jane and Sheree, Richard Tiu, Mayenne Carmona, Henry and Jojo Sabarte, Marivic Vasquez, Lilibeth and Paqui Campos, fashion photographer Paolo Pineda, “Men’s Health” art director Glen Concio, Samsung Electronics Philippines Corporation product manager for mobile and IT Ien Rivera, business unit director for contents and services Chris Concepcion, Samsung business advisor Mike Cheon, business unit director for IT and mobile team Jojo Vega, SEPCO product marketing head for Mobile Coco Domingo, stylist Sidney Yap and Noel Ferrer to take a formal dinner and having a photo-op at the VIP lounge of the Quirino Grandstand during the 33rd anniversary celebration of El Shaddai DWXI-PPFI.

Chiqui Roa-Puno

William Thio

speedo fastskin FS-PRO recordbreaker costume and arena alie-bleue ARN-V4504W

Speedo speedsocket goggle

Ang itlog ni Rizal

Great words come from great men. I greatly agree. But did you ever question if those beautiful lines were written and said spontaneously and unpremeditated? No rough and draft; and did not go through proofreading, checking and re-checking?

Well, naturally or with corrections, what we get now from these great and famous personalities are all in its final form. And I believe too, that nobody really cares about this point I am raising — and I have the strongest feeling that I’m just alone in this search. Well, ayokong mag-isa at madali akong kausap. Erase, erase.

But I’m sure that someday, we would probably be reading in some quotation books under the headline Woodstalk — something from the controversial Toygirl, este Tiger Woods pala, like —
X


“I’ve always been ‘even’ and on the level as far as my wife is concerned. But winds change; you commit mistakes in the course — you sometimes hit and take too many strokes on the holes. I hate bogeys. My ‘birdie’ is important to me.”

And not far from these pages would be our very own Wapakman (with a ‘K‘) —

“Maraming taon at panahon akong nakikipagbugbugan at nakikipagkiskisan ng katawan at nakikipagyakapan sa kapwa ko lalaki. Mga katawang pawis na pawis at hindi mo maiwasang kung minsan ay amoy kabayo at kalabaw na kami. At pagkatapos, minsan ako’y inyong pag-uusapan na may kasamang babaeng mabango, ako pa ay inyong huhusgahan. Pagbigyan n’yo naman ako. Sabi nga ni Tiger Woods, ‘My birdie is important to me.’”

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Actually, the subject and inquiry for today was first directed to Jose Rizal’s Mi Ultimo Adios. Did our national hero have scratch papers when he wrote it? Or did he burn the trash papers using the oil lamp to hide evidence of trial? Someone even thought that he might have swallowed them — that is why he did not request for a last meal and did not eat his breakfast before he was executed. Nabusog na raw kasi sa papel. Ngek!

By the way, this bit of information about our Pambansang Bayani not eating anything before facing the firing squad, was given to me by multi-awarded Filipino historian and journalist Ambeth Ocampo. He even added that according to a certain Austin Coates, “Bago s’ya lumabas sa Fort Santiago, kumuha s’ya ng isang nilagang itlog sa mesa at hinagis sa madilim na sulok ng selda at sabi, ‘Hayaan natin magpista rin ang mga daga!’”

Thank you Ambeth. Parang naging interesado ako bigla sa kasaysayan ng itlog ni Rizal. Pero teka, mukhang sumasama na ang usapan — we started from “scratch”... then we ended with “eggs.” Ngek!

* * *

Pambansang Kamao at Pambansang Kaano,

Pambansang Mangangaritong numero uno;

May Pambansang Laro at ito’y Pinoy Henyo

At Pambansang Pang-Goodtime — Wow, Mali! pare ko.

Ano ba ang dapat para maging pambansa?

Kailanga’y angat ka sa larangang paksa;

Kung gano’y pwede na at walang hiya-hiya,

Ang Pambansang Palabas ay ang Eat, Bulaga!.

Aber, kontrahin nga ng ibang inggitero —

Mahigit tatlumpung taong pag-ere nito

Sa tatlong himpilan — Siyam, Dalawa’t Pito;

At sa tanda nito, nasitsit pa sa Singko.

Ha, ha, ha, ha, ubra naman kayong gumawa

Ng sariling “pambansa” kung inaakala;

Pambansang Bugaw o kaya’y Pambansang Bakla,

Pambansang Ilong o Pambansang Mandaraya.

Pambansang Papansin kaya’y Pambansang Bakya,

Pambansang Plastikado’t Pambansang Pagawa;

Sa huling titulo maraming pinagpala,

Kaya sa tropeo, kanya-kanyang palikha.

Usapang seryo tayo’t naiisip ko lang —

Pambansang Awit natin dapat bang palitan?

Para kasing kulelat na tayo sa laban,

Paumanhin, “Per-LAST na tayo ng Silangan.”

Tutal ang sigaw n’yo ay puro pagbabago,

Di baguhin ang pwede’t magsimula tayo;

Ibahin din ang watawat... napansin ba n’yo?

Ginawa nang T-shirt bandilang Pilipino.

Subalit ayon sa aking pagkakatanda,

Tatlong tala’t isang araw lang ang ginawa,

Ngunit mga tao para bagang nagwala,

May mapa sa dibdib tila ba nawawala.

Wari bang lahat naging makabayan bigla

Na parang kailan lang tinatanggap na “bakya”;

At parang kasalanan ni Francis M pa nga,

Pagkawala ni Kiko, dun lang nagsimula.

Kung ’yay pagbabago di ibigay ang hilig,

Sama ’ko kung saan may kilig at pag-ibig;

Ngayon balikan natin ang Pambansang Himig,

Tanggalin mga tinik na nakakabikig.

May dagat at langit ngunit may bundok pa ba?

Palagay ko pagpalit napapanahon na;

Tutal tayo naman mahilig na kumanta,

Talent shows nga natin ay sampu ang sampera.

Mga lupa’y hinarang na lang ng iilan;

Marami ang ni duyan ay walang mahigan,

Tuloy iba’y nagdarasal — bumalik na lang

Mga nanlupig at naniil na mayaman.

“Alab ng puso sa dibdib mo’y buhay...” pa ba?

Eh mukhang wala nang buhay nasabing linya;

Tipong may buhay lamang dibdib ng dalaga,

Napapalaki pa s’ya at napapaganda.

At ang huling linya’y mukhang hindi na bagay

At hindi na lang “dahil sa’yo” ang mamatay,

Pagkat marami rin ngayon ang bumibigay

Nang dahil sa YO... SI.

Ano inyong palagay?

* * *

Today is the 13th of December. Thirteen is one of my favorite numbers. Again, for your information, I gave all my children 13 letters in their first names. And most of the time too, my poems have 13 syllables in each line. Tiger Woods is now a “thirteen” — labingtatlo.

Ang kanyang nila-LABING... TATLO! Ngek!