I’d like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas and wonderful things coming your way in 2010!

To those far away from home and your loved ones, be joyful as well as you dream of the love and warmth of home and friends.

Let me share with you some photos taken Dec. 23 – two days before Christmas – of Tacloban’s downtown scene, with the holiday rush and all.

Happy holidays, everyone!

View more photos: http://gerryruiz.callezaragosa.com/p767195133

Slideshow: http://gerryruiz.callezaragosa.com/p767195133/slideshow

Photos taken during photowalk of CCLS’ 3rd Basic Photography Seminar-Workshop, Dec 23, 2009 in Tacloban City

Kining adlawa ang sinugdanan sa atong hearing sa swertres aron ta makapili ug winning swertres combinations.

Giawhag ang pagsalmot sa ubang swertres analysts.

“Robotic Christmas” is this year’s Tacloban City government’s theme for the Christmas celebration in the city.

A rubber artist from Marikina was commissioned to do the over-all set-up of Christmas decorations in the city based on a “crystal robotic” theme.

Here’s the late night scene at the Balyuan area where the main attraction – a giant silver Christmas tree – has been erected with robots around it.

I envy a friend who has this great backyard.

I’m envious not because of his yard’s large area. But mainly for the view he wakes up to every morning – the Cancabato Bay.

So I paid him a visit one drizzling afternoon, not really expecting to get any great photos as the weather ahead looked stormy, with heavy cloud formation amassing at the eastern horizon.

Here’s what I got at the back of Butch Celestial’s place along Sagkahan, Tacloban City:

Thanks, Butz!

More photos and slideshow >>> http://gerryruiz.callezaragosa.com/p554514949

As a kid, I always dreamt the Chocolate Hills were made of luscious cocoa. So imagine my disappointment when we went to Bohol in November and I saw the Chocolate Hills weren’t Hershey brown but, ugh, green.

so un-chocolate hills!

But like a blessing in disguise, this shattered childhood fantasy pushed me to look beyond those famous mounds; there’s a lot more to be written about this lovely province in Visayas.

Dec. 16, 7pm—Dec. 17, 7pm

ABS-CBN – Business

AIG’s Asian unit to list in $20-B IPO: report – HONG KONG – Bailed-out US insurance giant AIG is planning to list its Asian unit in Hong Kong by the second quarter of 2010 in a sale that could raise as much as $20

Bank of America names new CEO – WASHINGTON – Bank of America said Wednesday it had named a top manager, Brian Moynihan, as the new chief executive officer to take over from embattled Kenneth Lewis,

BOP deficit hits $93-M in Nov – MANILA, Philippines – The Philippines recorded a balance of payments (BOP) deficit of $93 million in November, the central bank reported on Thursday.

BSP keeps rates steady at record lows – MANILA, Philippines – As expected, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) has decided to keep its interest rates steady, saying that the inflation outlook remained

Central bank slightly tweaks inflation forecasts – MANILA, Philippines – The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) slightly tweaked its inflation forecasts for this year, saying the average increase in prices will be 3.3%.

Dollar gains in Asia on Fed outlook – TOKYO – The dollar rose to a three-month high against the euro in Asia Thursday after the Federal Reserve provided an upbeat outlook for the US economy and Greece was

Fed decision to boost emerging debt issues: BSP chief – MANILA, Philippines – The Federal Reserve’s decision to keep interest rates low for an extended period should boost interest in debt issues from emerging markets,

KEPCo urges gov
‘t to auction just one contract for gas plant – MANILA, Philippines – The operator of the 1,200-megawatt (MW) Ilijan Natural Gas Combined Cycle plant in Batangas has expressed misgivings on a plan to split the plant
’s

Manila Water to raise rates in January 2010 – MANILA, Philippines – Manila Water Company Inc. disclosed on Thursday that it will impose new water rates starting January 2, 2010.

Maynilad, Manila Water to raise rates in January 2010 – MANILA, Philippines – Manila Water Company Inc. disclosed on Thursday that it will impose new water rates starting January 2, 2010.

New tax chief reorganizes BIR – Reshuffling to affect 57 top positions in the tax bureau MANILA, Philippines – Joel Tan-Torres, who was appointed as commissioner of Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR)

Oil prices down in Asian trade – SINGAPORE – Oil prices were lower in Asian trade Thursday on profit-taking after an overnight rally, boosted by a report showing stronger US energy demand, analysts

PAL beefs up flights for the holiday season – MANILA, Philippines – Flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) announced Thursday that it has added flight frequencies, new routes, and bigger aircraft to accommodate the

Philippine shares up 0.52% on blue chip gains – MANILA, Philippines – Philippine share prices closed 0.52% higher Thursday, lifted by gains in blue-chips, dealers said.

Philippine-Oman air talks result in 17 more flights – MANILA, Philippines – Air talks between Oman and the Philippines have yielded new entitlements for 17 direct flights between them.

Philippines on track to meet 0.9% growth in Q4—Neda official – MANILA, Philippines – A senior official expressed confidence that the Philippines will post a 0.9% growth in the last 3 months of the year, bringing the country’s

Phoenix Petroleum allots P500-M for 2010 capex – MANILA, Philippines – Publicly-listed Phoenix Petroleum Philippines Inc. has earmarked P500 million for its capital expenditures next year as it plans to put up over 40

SMIC sees 14% growth in Q4, full-year profits – MANILA, Philippines – Philippine conglomerate SM Investments Corp. (SMIC) expects its net income to grow by 14% in the fourth quarter and the full year, driven by strong

UK firm to spend $1-B for biomass projects – SAN LEONARDO, Nueva Ecija—UK-based renewable energy company Global Green Power Plc. is (GGPPC) looking at spending $1.035 billion to put up biomass power plants in 12

ABS-CBN – Metro Manila

Judge Cortez hit for lack of moral courage – MANILA, Philippines – A university president is asking Quezon City Regional Trial Court Judge Luisito Cortez to resign for not having “moral courage” to take the murder

QC fire guts homes of 150 families – MANILA, Philippines – More than 150 families lost their homes due to a fire which hit an area in Commonwealth Avenue in Quezon City on Thursday.

Reward for Jason Ivler arrest raised to P1M – MANILA, Philippines – Government authorities on Thursday raised to P1 million the reward for any information that would lead to the arrest of Jason Ivler, the main

Tight security ahead of Ampatuan massacre hearing – Todo-higpit na seguridad ang ikinasa para simula ng preliminary investigation sa kaso ng Maguindanao massacre. Magba-Bandila si Alvin Elchico! Bandila, Huwebes,

ABS-CBN – Nation

Akbayan files raps vs Arroyo’s 6 ’stooges’ – MANILA, Philippines – Two party-list representatives on Thursday filed a case before the Office of the Ombudsman against members of the security cluster of President

Ampatuan case raffled to woman judge – MANILA, Philippines – The multiple murder case against Andal Ampatuan, Jr. was re-raffled off to Quezon City Regional Trial Court Judge Jocelyn Solis Reyes of Branch 221

Ampatuan massacre case goes to QC woman judge – Napunta na sa isang babaeng hukom ang hamon para hawakan ang kontrobersyal na kaso. Kung may huwes na takot humawak sa Maguindanao massacre case, tinanggap ito ni Judge

Body of teen ‘fighter’ of Ampatuans found – MANILA, Philippines – A body found Wednesday in a rice field in Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao province has been identified as a teenager who was allegedly a member of the

Comelec allows security escorts for candidates – MANILA, Philippines – The Commission on Elections has allowed policemen and soldiers to serve as security escorts to election candidates who are facing security threats.

Comelec backs early voting in ARMM – MANILA, Philippines – A Commission on Elections (Comelec) official on Thursday said he will ask the commission en banc to issue a resolution next Tuesday asking both

Comelec rejects gay party Ang Ladlad’s appeal – MANILA, Philippines – Commission on Elections Chairman Jose Melo’s tie-breaking vote ended the gay group Ang Ladlad’s bid to be included in the party-list elections in

Ex-child assassin: Andal Jr. abused even married women

‘If I were Judge Cortez, I would not have rejected Ampatuan case’ – Karapatan man ni QC RTC Judge Luisito Cortez na atrasan ang kasong murder laban sa mga Ampatuan kaugnay ng Maguindanao massacre, mas mainam pa rin kung hindi niya ito

It’s final, Comelec denies gay grouip’s party list bid – Gay community is not special, and therefore not marginalized, says poll chief The election chief broke the tie in the poll body’s vote on Thursday to deny with finality

It’s final, Comelec denies gay group’s party list bid – Gay community is not special, and therefore not marginalized, says poll chief The election chief broke the tie in the poll body’s vote on Thursday to deny with finality

Judge concedes from Maguindanao massacre case – Judge concedes from Maguindanao massacre case

Kenney wants to enjoy last Christmas in Philippines – MANILA, Philippines – Outgoing United States Ambassador Kristie Kenney said she wants to enjoy her last Christmas in the Philippines rather than dwell on the fact that

Lawmakers alarmed at poll automation problems – Naaalarma na ang mga mambabatas sa pagkabalam ng mga paghahanda para sa automated elections. Kaya naman payag sila kahit na mauwi sa mano-mano ang bilangan matiyak lang

Philippine journalists win AFP award – MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine Center For Investigative Journalism has won Agence France-Presse’ s Kate Webb Award for its fearless work in the world’s deadliest

Real reason for poll counting machines delay bared – MANILA, Philippines – Commission on Elections (Comelec) officials on Thursday virtually acknowledged Smartmatic-TIM’s failure to deliver the agreed first batch of 42,000

Tight security for Ampatuan Jr. at DOJ on Friday – MANILA, Philippines – The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has assigned 25 agents to secure Datu Unsay Mayor Andal Ampatuan Jr. at the Department of Justice (DOJ)

ABS-CBN – Regions

Across the regions: Giant parols, singing Christmas trees – Dalawampung higanteng parol, ipinarada sa Nueva Ecija; singing Christmas tree, dinarayo sa Laguna; at mga simbolo ng Pasko, idinisplay sa Misamis Occidental. ‘Yan ang

Albay in state of calamity due to restless Mayon – Mas tinututukan na ngayon ang Bulkang Mayon. Dahil sa nakaambang peligro, kanina, inilagay na ang lalawigan ng Albay sa state of calamity. At sa kabila ng paghahanda

Another Maguindanao mayor surrenders guns to Army – MANILA, Philippines – Another mayor of Maguindanao has surrendered firearms to the military on Thursday following a government drive to recover loose firearms in the

Dy given 5 days to answer Padaca MR – MANILA, Philippines – The Commission on Elections failed Thursday to rule on former governor Benjamin Dy’s motion for execution allowing him to take over immediately as

Fire in Bacolod razes 19 houses – BACOLOD CITY – A mid-morning fire in Bacolod City on Thursday hit 19 houses and the illegal manufacture of firecrackers in the area is being eyed as one of the possible

Forced evacuations in Mayon danger zone set – Wala pa ring tigil sa pag-alboroto ang Bulkang Mayon. Ipinatutupad sa ngayon ang mandatory evacuation para sa lahat ng mga residenteng nakatira sa danger zone. Puwede pa

Hundreds more evacuate Mayon danger zone – MANILA, Philippines – Hundreds more have left their homes in at least 2 cities in Albay province as authorities continue the mandatory evacuation of people living around

Illegally-shipped firecrackers seized in Bacolod – MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine Coast Guard on Wednesday morning intercepted P1-million worth of illegally-shipped firecrackers at the Bacolod Real Estate

Major eruption of Mayon Volcano likely: gov’t – LEGASPI, Philippines – A major eruption of a volatile Philippine volcano could be just weeks away, scientists warned Thursday, as thousands of residents faced the

Mommy Dionisia readies for Manny’s birthday bash – Ngayon ang ika-31 kaarawan ni boxing champ Manny Pacquiao! Pinaghandaan nang husto ni Manny ang en grandeng pagdiriwang na ginaganap ngayong gabi sa KCC Convention

Romblon gov’t takes over counter-insurgency ops – MANILA, Philippines – The military on Thursday turned over to the province of Romblon and to the local police the handling of the counter-insurgency campaign, saying the

Simple birthday wish for world’s Number 1 boxer – Patuloy ang kasiyahan sa pagdiriwang ng ika-31 kaarawan ni boxing superstar Manny Pacquiao! Mula General Santos City, magba-Bandila si Jorge Cariño. Bandila,

Truck falls off ravine in Benguet; 3 killed – MANILA, Philippines – A delivery truck laden with vegetables fell off a 200-ft ravine in Tuba, Benguet Thursday, killing all 3 of its passengers.

GMA News.tv Breaking

17 dead in tourist bus crash in SKorea – A tourist bus crash in South Korea has killed 17 people and injured 14 others.

Ang Ladlad’s petition to join 2010 polls junked with finality – The Commission on Elections has denied with finality the petition of Ang Ladlad to be accredited as a party-list organization and join next year’s elections.

Arrested foreign poachers in Cagayan Valley fined $25,000 – BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya – The regional fisheries office of Cagayan Valley has scored one against foreign poachers – and earn for itself some $25,000.

Brazil toddler has 50 needles inside body – BRASILIA, Brazil – A 2-year-old Brazilian boy has as many as 50 metal sewing needles inside his body and a doctor treating the boy said Wednesday they were apparently

CBCP might tackle martial law issue in January meet – Amid differing opinions from some of its more vocal members on the declaration of martial law in Maguindanao, the national body of Catholic bishops in the country may

Comelec junks Dy’s plea to immediately sit as Isabela gov – The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has rejected the petition of Benjamin Dy to immediately sit as Isabela governor following the decision of the poll body that it was

Comelec junks Dy’s plea to sit as Isabela governor – The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has rejected the petition of Benjamin Dy to immediately sit as Isabela governor following the decision of the poll body that it was

Deadlock looming in climate change negotiations – COPENHAGEN – Negotiations to combat global warming entered a fraught 11th day Thursday with diplomatic deadlock looming and barely a day left before President Barack

Demand for OFWs dropped 14 percent this year – Demand for Filipino workers abroad dropped 14 percent to 80,000 this year because of the reeling effects of the global financial crisis, according to the Philippine

Demand for OFWs drops 14 percent this year – Demand for Filipino workers abroad dropped 14 percent to 80,000 this year because of the reeling effects of the global financial crisis, according to the Philippine

Demand for OFWs drops 14 percent this year, says POEA – Demand for Filipino workers abroad dropped 14 percent to 80,000 this year because of the lingering effects of the global financial crisis, according to the Philippine

Despite everything Woods is athlete of decade – As sports go, it wasn’t close: Tiger Woods was famous for his golf long before he became infamous for his personal life.

Despite the controversy, Woods is decade’s best athlete – As sports go, it wasn’t close: Tiger Woods was famous for his golf long before he became infamous for his personal life.

DFA belies report of beheading of OFW couple – The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) belied today an earlier report that an overseas Filipino worker (OFW) couple in Saudi Arabia was scheduled to be beheaded on

Eddiva wins 2nd SEAG gold for RP wushu bets – Mark Eddiva beat Myanmar”s Tin Lin Aung 2-0, in the sanshou under-65 kg division final Thursday for wushu”s second gold medal contribution to Team Philippines in the

Eddiva wins second SEAG gold for RP wushu bets – Mark Eddiva beat Myanmar”s Tin Lin Aung 2-0, in the sanshou under-65 kg division final Thursday for wushu”s second gold medal contribution to Team Philippines in the

Female QC judge picked to handle massacre case – (Updated 4:48 p.m.) A female Quezon City judge will now handle the multiple murder case of Andal Ampatuan Jr. after it was rejected by Judge Luisito Cortez for safety

GMA Network eyes wider OFW reach in 2010 via Pinoy TV, Life TV – GMA Network, Inc. (GMA) wants to reach more Filipino households abroad in 2010 through its two international channels, GMA Pinoy TV and GMA Life TV, a network official

Health care sector urged to help reduce climate change effects – With climate change perceived as the biggest health threat of the 21st century, the World Health Organization urged anew the global health care sector to do its part in

Home study starts for Maguindanao pupils Thursday – The Department of Education (DepEd) will start on Thursday a home study program for pupils in Maguindanao province affected by events there since the massacre of 57

In Copenhagen, tensions overflow into the streets – As ministers and heads of state from all over the world pour into Copenhagen for the final stretch of the climate talks, tensions heat up between political activists,

Intel hit with more antitrust charges in FTC suit – The Federal Trade Commission piled on new antitrust charges against Intel Corp. on Wednesday, seeking to end what it described as a decade of illegal sales tactics that

Iran tests long-range missile, raises ire of West – TEHRAN, Iran – Iran on Wednesday test-fired an upgraded version of its most advanced missile, which is capable of hitting Israel and parts of Europe, in a new show of

Katrina Halili faces Marian Rivera anew in Darna – Mula sa soap na Mari Mar, muling nagkaharap sina Katrina Halili at Marian Rivera sa eksena ng nangunguhang fantaserye ng GMA 7 na Darna .

Metro security tightened as Misa de Gallo starts – Filipino faithful flocked to churches early dawn of Wednesday for the first of nine Simbang Gabi –literally “night mass” but actually held during dawn hours–amid

Military: Expect “fireworks” in Basilan – There will be “fireworks” in Basilan province in the coming days as government security forces go full force in rescuing a kidnap victim and pursuing terrorists who

OFW voters to reach more than half a million – The number of registered Filipino overseas absentee voters (OAV) is expected to surpass the half-million mark, the Commission on Elections (Comelec) revealed on

PCIJ wins award from int’l news agency – Agence France Press announced today it is awarding its prestigious Kate Webb Award to the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism for its fearless work in the

Pinoy activists in US join clamor to probe martial law imposition – Calls to investigate the declaration of martial law in Maguindanao have spread among overseas Filipinos even days after the edict was lifted.

Police stop man from reaching Berlusconi’s room – ROME – A young man with mental problems managed on Wednesday to reach the hospital floor where Premier Silvio Berlusconi was recovering from an attack, and police were

RP posts $93-B payment deficit in November – Foreign currencies paid out by the Philippines exceeded those that entered the country by $93 billion in November, following debt payments by the central bank and

Torres’ record-jump highlights RP gold haul – Marestella Torres” record-breaking jump bannered Team Philippines” seven-gold medal haul as the RP bets hope for a strong finish as the 25th Laos Southeast Asian Games

Woods voted top athlete of the decade – As sports go, it wasn’t close: Tiger Woods was famous for his golf long before he became infamous for his personal life.

GMA News.tv Business

BCDA names 12 bidders for Fort Bonifacio lot – The state-run Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) on Wednesday named the 12 firms that have expressed interest in developing a 34.5-hectare prime lot south

Benguet Corp. insists on Kingking deal with Minmetals International – Benguet Corp. insists it had signed a deal with Minmetals International (HK) Ltd. to fund the development of the Kingking copper and gold mine in Compostella Valley.

BIR seeks tax goal review due to storm deductions – The country’s tax chief on Wednesday called for a review of next year”s collection target, citing forgone revenues of around P6 billion alone from taxpayers claiming

BIR-LGU deal expected to boost revenues – Businesses will soon be required to register with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) before they can renew their permits and secure other official documents from local

BSP keeps policy rates, cites moderate growth – The policy-making Monetary Board kept benchmark interest rates steady at its last rate-setting meeting for the year late Thursday, saying modest economic growth was

China Minmetals denies Kingking deal with Benguet Corp. – China Minmetals Corp. has denied signing a funding agreement with listed Benguet Corp. for the development and commercial operations of a gold and copper property in

GSIS finds white knight for thrift banking unit – The state pension fund Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) has found a white knight that will fully acquire banking unit GSIS Family Bank (GFB).

House ratifies bill lowering premium tax on life insurance – The House of Representatives ratified on Tuesday night a measure that lowers the premium tax on life insurance policies. The bill, the House version of which originally

House ratifies bill sparing water districts from income tax – The House of Representatives ratified on Tuesday night a bill that exempts local water districts from income tax.

Philippine share prices flat, track Wall Street’s mixed close – Local share prices barely moved on Thursday, tracking Wall Street’s mixed close overnight after the Federal Reserve, which said market conditions were helping the

Philippine share prices flat, tracks Wall Stree’ts mixed close – Local share prices barely moved on Thursday, tracking Wall Street’s mixed close overnight after the Federal Reserve, which said market conditions were helping the

Phoenix Petroleum sets aside P500M for expansion – Listed Phoenix Petroleum Philippines Inc. will allot P500 million for its capital spending next year, as it expands its network and sets up oil warehouses, a top company

Pinoys expect Christmas to be no different from last year – About half of all Filipinos expect this Christmas to be the same as last year and an overwhelming majority are looking forward to 2010 with hope, notwithstanding this

PSBank eyes 23% income growth next year – Philippine Savings Bank (PSBank) expects profits to rise by almost a quarter next year, on the back of higher consumer loans as the economy recovers from a slump.

Roxas haciendas under CARP – Supreme Court – Haciendas owned by sugar-based conglomerate Roxas and Co., Inc. are covered by the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program, the Supreme Court has ruled.

RP-Oman air talks result in 17 more flights – Air talks between Oman and the Philippines have yielded 17 more direct flights between them.

SM Investments on track to hit profit target – Listed holding company SM Investments Corp. is on track to meet its net income target for the year on the strength of its mall and property units.

Stricter migrant worker policy seen under UK Conse – The British government may impose stricter migrant worker policies if the Conservative Party wins majority of the seats in the June elections, visiting British members

Stricter migrant worker policy seen under UK Conservative Party – The British government may impose stricter migrant worker policies if the Conservative Party wins majority of the seats in the June elections, visiting British members

Tax goal review urged due to typhoon deductions – The country’s tax chief on Wednesday called for a review of next year”s collection target, citing forgone revenues of around P6 billion alone from taxpayers claiming

US stocks stall as Fed prepares to remove aid – The stock market stalled after an early advance Wednesday as the Federal Reserve reminded investors that it would start to wean the economy from an array of emergency

WESM for Mindanao pushed – DAVAO CITY – Businesses in Mindanao want the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) to start on the island by 2014, as part of efforts to develop a competitive power

GMA News.tv Nation

(Updated) Senate finishes report on Villar case – The Senate committee of the whole has already finished its report on the ethics complaint filed against Senator Manuel Villar and is now being routed for the signature

Arroyo vows to be media friendly next year – As part of her New Year”s resolution, President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo has vowed to be an “easier subject” for journalists covering her.

BFP goes on full alert vs fires during Christmas, New Year – The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) went on full alert starting Thursday in anticipation of possible fires during the holidays.

Bicam OKs proposed 2010 budget “in principle” – The bicameral conference committee has approved “in principle” the P1.5 trillion proposed national budget for 2010 after it resolved the major differences in the two

Comelec issues reso vs guns, goons on 2010 polls – The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has issued its resolution banning candidates and private individuals from carrying firearms and hiring bodyguards during the

Comelec to resume voter registration on Monday – The Commission on Elections (Comelec) is set to resume voter registration on Monday after the Supreme Court ordered the extension of voters” list-up until January 9,

Cory’s death most significant this year – TIME magazine – Her death not only brought sorrow to a nation of ninety million, it also brought grief to the world. In TIME Magazine”s yearend round-up of people who mattered in 2009,

Cory’s passing is most significant death this year – TIME magazine – Her death not only brought sorrow to a nation of ninety million, it also brought grief to the world. In TIME Magazine”s yearend round-up of people who mattered in 2009,

Danny Lim protests rejection of senatorial bid – Detained former Scout Ranger commander Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim on Wednesday lashed out at the Commission on Elections (Comelec) for rejecting his senatorial bid in next

Dealer says he sold Ampatuans weaponry worth P6 M in cash – The gun dealer that surfaced on Wednesday claimed that he sold high-powered firearms to members of the Ampatuan clan, in a cash transaction worth P6 million, even as he

Drilon, Osmeña defend their eligibility to run in 2010 polls – Despite “resting” for only three years since their last term, former Senators Franklin Drilon and Sergio Osmeña III said Wednesday that there is no Constitutional

Enrile securing senators’ signatures for C-5 road mess report – Senate president Juan Ponce Enrile is making the rounds to secure signatures of senators for a committee report on the outcome of the investigation into the C-5 road

‘Iwas PapuToxic’ campaign says no to firecrackers – A local ecological group urged the youth to say no to firecrackers through its yearly “Iwas PapuToxic” campaign.

NBI security tightened for massacre suspect’s preliminary hearing – Police in Manila have beefed security measures for this Friday’s preliminary hearing of murder charges against a Maguindanao mayor linked to the Nov. 23 massacre.

New judge to handle Ampatuan murder case – After Judge Luisito Cortez inhibited himself from handling the multiple murder case slapped against Datu Unsay, Maguindanao Mayor Andal Ampatuan Jr., the Quezon City

Palace justifies Maguindanao martial law anew – Malacañang on Wednesday justified anew the imposition of martial law in Maguindanao after Judge Luisito Cortez of Quezon City Regional Trial Court declined to

Police fails to arrest Jason Ivler anew – Law enforcers on Wednesday failed anew to arrest Jason Ivler, an American national who was the prime suspect in the killing of a Malacañang official’s son.

Prices of holiday food items up slightly a week before Christmas – Prices of locally-made holiday food items have gone up slightly – just a week before Christmas – but the increase remained within “acceptable” levels, a group of

SC allows inhibition of QC judge in massacre case – The Supreme Court on Wednesday allowed Quezon City judge Luisito Cortez to inhibit from the case of Andal Ampatuan Jr., the prime suspect in last month”s massacre of 57

Six Arroyo men face charges over martial law declaration – (UPDATED – 4:25 pm) Six members of the Arroyo administration’s Cabinet Cluster Committee were slapped with charges before the Office of the Ombudsman for their role in

Suspected Abu Sayyaf finance officer nabbed – NBI – An alleged member of the Abu Sayyaf who is serving as its link to al-Qaeda is now in government custody following his arrest in Indonesia last month, a government

Suspected Abu Sayyaf financier falls – An alleged member of the Abu Sayyaf who is serving as its link to al-Qaeda is now in government custody following his arrest in Indonesia last month, a government

UST to launch 400-day countdown for Quadricentennial on Friday – Just how long is 400 years of excellence? Only University of Santo Tomas (UST) knows the answer. This Friday, history awaits Thomasians as UST heralds the coming of its

VACC to file charges vs judge who inhibited self from Ampatuan case – The Volunteer Against Crime and Corruption (VACC) will file a complaint against Judge Luisito Cortez who had decided to inhibit himself from the handling the multiple

GMA News.tv Regional

Albay gov issues ultimatum for Mayon evacuation – With an ultimatum from the governor, authorities in Albay province adopted Thursday a zero-tolerance policy on hardheaded residents who refuse to evacuate their homes

Albay issues ultimatum on Mayon residents’ evacuation – Local authorities in Albay province issued an ultimatum on Thursday imposing “zero tolerance” on residents who refuse to evacuate their homes in danger zones around

Comelec junks Dy’s plea to immediately seat as Isabela gov – The Commission on Elections has rejected the petition of Benjamin Dy to immediately seat as Isabela governor following the decision of the poll body that it was him, and

Forced evacuation set for residents near Mayon – Local authorities in Albay province issued an ultimatum on Thursday imposing “zero tolerance” on residents who refuse to evacuate their homes in danger zones around

Phivolcs braces for “hazardous” Mayon eruption – After observing a continued increase in volcanic activity, state volcanologists on Thursday warned of a possible hazardous eruption from Mayon Volcano in Bicol, but

Surrender leaflets dropped in Basilan for jail escapees – BASILAN – Two military choppers on Thursday dropped some 14,000 leaflets in this southern Philippine province urging citizens to help authorities recapture 28 Abu Sayyaf

Ultimatum given on Mayon residents’ evacuation – Local authorities in Albay province issued an ultimatum on Thursday imposing “zero tolerance” on residents who refuse to evacuate their homes in danger zones around

Ultimatum issued by Albay governor on Mayon evacuation – Local authorities in Albay province issued an ultimatum on Thursday imposing “zero tolerance” on residents who refuse to evacuate their homes in danger zones around

Inquirer (Metro)

Bulbs for fluorescent lamps project launched in malls – In this season of lights and rising electric costs, the Department of Energy (DOE) is giving Metro Manila residents a chance to lower their electricity consumption and

Did you know – IN 1895, a year before the Philippine revolted against Spain, there were about eight million people in the country, nearly seven million of whom were Catholics.

Gibo is top choice of UP students in mock polls – Despite his poor showing in surveys, administration candidate Gilberto Teodoro emerged as the top choice among students of the University of the Philippines in mock

Holiday treat for motorists on Skyway – Fees will not be collected from motorists who will use the Skyway System’s Magallanes-Alabang at-grade and Buendia-Bicutan elevated sections, and the South Luzon

Loan assistance ordinance stirs debate at Makati council session – Election fever is heating up at the Makati City council as councilors from the Binay and Mercado camps are divided over a draft ordinance giving financial assistance to

Manila bares new rates for Metro Manila consumers – New water rates will be imposed by Manila Water Company Inc. starting Jan. 2, 2010, with the approval of the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS).

Police extend manhunt for Jason Ivler – Metro Manila police are now seeking help from their provincial counterparts in their manhunt for road rage suspect Jason Ivler, who may have fled to neighboring

Inquirer (Nation)

‘How come we’re still talking about deliveries?’ – How come we re still talking about the delivery of automated poll machines

‘Lola’ best in Dubai int’l filmfest – Two grandmas and a murder The curious combination produced yet another cinematic masterpiece by Filipino director Brillante Mendoza

Abu Sayyaf leader captured – An alleged founding member of the Abu Sayyaf kidnap gang has been arrested by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and is set to be extradited to the United States

Ampatuans no-show in habeas corpus hearing – The Ampatuans, used to making their presence felt with their luxurious vehicles and heavily armed security escorts, were a no-show Wednesday at an habeas corpus hearing.

Ang Ladlad issue splits Comelec – A petition for party list accreditation from a gay rights group has become a divisive issue among the election commissioners forcing Commission on Elections Comelec

Arroyo vows to be nicer to reporters – It
’s never too late to be nice. Celebrating what could be her last Christmas party with Malacañang reporters, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on Tuesday night renewed

Bad news from Copenhagen: No deal yet – COPENHAGEN The hour of truth loomed on Thursday at the UN climate talks where countries had to draw a line under procedural squabbles to nail down a deal ahead of one of

Cuenco bypassed as envoy – Rep. Antonio Cuenco
’s nomination as Philippine ambassador to Italy was bypassed by the Commission on Appointments Wednesday because of the objections of Sen. Jinggoy

Delegates near deal on tropical forests – COPENHAGEN Delegates were nearing a deal to protect tropical forests, although several substantive issues remained unresolved, including targets for reducing

DoJ, senators hit QC judge; SC orders new raffle – The secretary of Justice and at least three senators slammed the judge who refused to try the Ampatuans, the patriarch and his four sons, suspected brains behind the

Don
‘t give beggars alms; don ‘t say Merry Christmas – The government is singing its annual yearend songs. To the general public, it is again saying that giving alms to caroling street children is a no-no because their

Marcos Jr. for president? – Is the country ready for a president Ferdinand Marcos Jr.?

Palace vows to probe how gov’t arms, ammo landed in hands of Ampatuans – Malaca ang Thursday vowed a swift investigation to determine how government issued armaments landed in the hands of the powerful Ampatuan clan blamed for the election

Palace: Aquino can be overtaken – With still more than five months to go before the 2010 elections, Malacañang sees Sen. Benigno Aquino III
’s lead over seven other presidential candidates in poll surveys

PCIJ wins Kate Webb Award for fearless work in 20 years – The Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism PCIJ has won the Kate Webb Award of Agence France Presse AFP for its fearless work in the world s deadliest country

Perlas, Lim protest poll disqualification – Independent presidential candidate Nicanor Perlas, who was disqualified by the Commission on Elections (Comelec) from running in 2010, does not intend to go quietly.

Phivolcs warns: Mayon to blow its top in few weeks – Mayon Volcano which has blown its top nearly 40 times in 400 years Thursday menaced nearby residents with small eruptions of ash and lava as relief agencies moved more

RP killings make 2009 deadliest for journalists – NEW YORK The massacre last month of at least 30 media workers in the Philippines made 2009 the deadliest year ever for journalists according to the Committee to Protect

Tempers boil as delegates wait in freezing weather – COPENHAGEN Coffee or tea Police officers serving warm drinks to civilians is definitely not part of the job description of the Philippine National Police or police

Teodoro: Tracing source of guns, ammo easy – Speaking in a town-hall style meeting here yesterday, administration presidential candidate Gilberto
"Gibo" Teodoro said tracing the route of the firearms seized from

Time mag pays homage to ‘Saint of Democracy’ – Though she is gone the memory of a Filipino woman with a quiet demeanor still resonates around the world

Tough women of the bench – Women of the bench have stepped up to the plate and made their mark via controversial cases

US Marines play Santa to Smokey Mountain children – Christmas came eight days early to some 200 pre-school children at Manila
’s infamous "Smokey Mountain" who were among the recipients of this year ’s
"Operation Goodwill"

Wife waited in Bacolod; husband killed in Taguig – She waited for her husband at the Bacolod Silay Airport on Tuesday afternoon He had been killed two hours earlier in Taguig City

World leaders leaving behind big, fat carbon footprints – COPENHAGEN—If they fail to reach a climate deal in Copenhagen, world leaders flying in their private jets and huddling in five-star hotels will have little to show for

Inquirer (Regions)

48 W. Visayas areas poll hot spots – Police have placed 48 areas, including 40 towns and eight cities in Western Visayas, on a watch list of election hot spots.

Critics say it’s candidate Arroyo in sorties – President Macapagal-Arroyo has become more of an active candidate than an active President after she filed her candidacy as representative of the second district in

DepEd plans ‘home study’ programs in Maguindanao – The Department of Education (DepEd) has designed home study programs for students too afraid to go to school in Maguindanao following the Nov. 23 mass murder and martial

Homeless find Laguna site better option than ‘estero’ – Luisa Ortiz, 45, busies herself making Christmas trees. Ortiz, who suffered a mild stroke recently, uses pieces of bamboo, paints them white and erects them at the

ID system gets council OK on its way to enforcement in Biñan – The town of Biñan in Laguna is on its way to implementing a Residence Identification System (RIS), which its proponent said would not violate residents’ privacy.

Soldiers find body of suspected Ampatuan militiaman – Government forces on Wednesday found the decomposing body of a suspected member of the Civilian Volunteer Organization (CVO) who, along with about 10 others, clashed

Sudden rains bring floods, destruction in Misamis – Overnight rains on Tuesday have left six towns and two cities in Misamis Occidental flooded, destroying crops and washing away several houses along the coasts, said Gov.

W. Visayas workers press P50 pay hike – Labor representatives on the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) continued to press for a P50 wage increase in Western Visayas, saying the

Western Visayas election watch list – Category 1: (Towns) Anilao, Duenas, Estancia, Maasin, San Enrique (City) Passi

Manila Bulletin

Main News – ‘Bongbong’ explains presidential ambition – The son of late Philippine dictator Ferdinand Marcos announced Wednesday he was aiming to become president of the Southeast Asian nation and insisted his family had

Main News – ‘Simbang Gabi’ peaceful – NCRPO – The National Capital Region Police Office announced that the celebration of the first day of “Simbang Gabi” was peaceful as they had recorded zero crime rate all over

Main News – 10 vying for Quezon City mayoral race – The Comelec in Quezon City said that 10 candidates are vying for the city’s mayoral post while nine prospects are contesting the vice-mayor position in the May 2010

Main News – 251 pass licensure exam for dentists – The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) on Thursday announced that 251 out of 734 passed the Dentist Licensure Examination given by the Board of Dentistry in Manila

Main News – 8 ‘presidentiables’ seen as lacking agenda for OFWs – The 2010 presidential aspirants are not “exciting’’ and “lack substance’’ in terms of alleviating the plight of OFWs, the head of the Federated Association of Manpower

Main News – Ampatuan case gets new judge – The multiple murder case against the Ampatuans in connection with the Maguindanao massacre has been re-raffled off and given to Judge Jocelyn Solis Reyes of Quezon City

Main News – Australia to give more storm aid – The Australian government has pegged an additional A$8-million or P320-million in response to the revised flash appeal of the United Nations to help typhoon victims in

Main News – Bautista urges LGU tactical bond with gov’t – Quezon City authorities underscored Thursday the need for a strong tactical bond between the local government units (LGUs) and the national government in averting

Main News – BI gets nod to create 6 more satellite offices – The Department of Justice (DoJ) has approved the recommendation of the Bureau of Immigration (BI) to create six additional immigration area offices (IAOs) throughout the

Main News – BoC eyes Filipino drug dealers in Davao cocaine find – Members of Customs “Task Force Coke” are looking into the alleged involvement of Filipino drug dealers who possibly had a hand on the illegal shipments of 16 kilos of

Main News – Business groups back House measure – Leading business groups in the country are finally supporting a joint congressional measure that would allow the top 150 corporations to advance tax payments and raise

Main News – Cayetano urges European nations to sign convention on migrant rights – Senator Pia Cayetano has urged members of the European parliaments to sign an international convention and pass legislation formally recognizing the rights of migrant

Main News – CoA orders special audit for ARMM – A special financial audit has been ordered by the Commission on Audit (CoA) for ARMM amid growing suspicions of massive fraud linked to the wealth of the Ampatuan clan

Main News – Comelec warned of dire consequences of ‘No Election’ – Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile said that the Comelec must ensure clean, honest, and credible elections in 2010 whether it is done manually or through computerized

Main News – Comply with sanitation laws, piggery owners urged – Mayor Rogelio Santos of Porac, Pampanga warned piggery farm operators in the town to comply with existing sanitation and health laws or face cancellation of their

Main News – DoH advises against overeating – The Department of Health (DoH) advised the public Thursday to be careful of the food they will eat this holiday season to avoid food and water-borne diseases.

Main News – DoH hit for ‘dragging feet’ on cheaper medicines law – Sen. Pia S. Cayetano has criticized the slow action and lack of political will of the Department of Health in bringing down drug prices and expanding the coverage of the

Main News – Don’t be afraid, Bro. Eddie tells members of judiciary – A judge’s decision to inhibit from handling the Ampatuan case is a proof that “the government has created its own monster that even members of the judiciary have now

Main News – Drug leader killed in Agusan buy-bust – The leader of a drug syndicate was killed while five of his subordinates were arrested by anti-narcotics agents during an anti-illegal drugs buy-bust operation in Agusan

Main News – DSWD launches drive vs child abuse – The DSWD launched the “Pamasko sa mga Batang Lansangan at Pamilyang Naninirahan sa Lansangan Project” to help prevent the exploitation of Filipino children.

Main News – Ermita confident of Gibo-Edu tandem – Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita on Wednesday said he remains confident that the Gilberto Teodoro-Edu Manzano tandem will succeed in the 2010 elections.

Main News – Explain martial law declaration, says Acosta – Former Bukidnon Rep. Neric Acosta joined the growing number of voices calling for full accountability for the declaration of Martial Law in Maguindanao.

Main News – Fund lack derails voters’ education in Cordillera – The Cordillera office of the Comelec admitted that lack of funds is the primary cause for the delay in the massive information and education campaign for the

Main News – Kabataan party-list lawyer welcomes SC ruling – A lawyer for the Kabataan Party-list welcomed yesterday the Supreme Court’s (SC) decision extending the voter registration until January 9, 2010.

Main News – Life turns bleak for slain journalist’s daughter – For Maria Priscilla Reblando, life has become bleak even the Yuletide season since the brutal death of his journalist father in the massacre of 57 people in Ampatuan,

Main News – Major eruption for Mayon likely – A major eruption of the Mayon Volcano could be just weeks away, scientists warned Thursday.

Main News – MMDA bars use of force against vendors – Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Oscar Inocentes has removed the authority of his men to confiscate the merchandise of the sidewalk vendors.

Main News – Muslims celebrate New Year – It’s a non-working holiday this Friday, December 18, for the Office on Muslim Affairs (OMA) and in the ARMM to mark the advent of Amun Jadid, Islam’s New Year.

Main News – Napolcom wants local execs’ ‘police powers’ abolished – The National Police Commission (Napolcom) now wants to amend a provision in Republic Act (RA) 6975 that gives local executives the power to choose their police

Main News – NBI stops raids, probes during Christmas season – NBI Director Nestor M. Mantaring said the moratorium on all operations during the holidays except those involving heinous crimes, dangerous drugs, firearms and terrorist

Main News – NP warned vs alliance with party-list groups – A pro-administration partylist lawmaker advised Thursday the Nacionalista Party to be wary about its link up with a coalition of left-leaning partylist groups, saying it

Main News – NPA rebel slain in Davao – A communist-New People’s Army rebel was killed while several others were seriously wounded in a skirmish with government security forces in the village of Sibulan in

Main News – Pag-IBIG housing loans to hit P44.17-billion – Vice President Noli de Castro has expressed optimism that the Pag-IBIG Fund’s housing loans nationwide could still reach as high as P44.17 billion.

Main News – PCIJ wins AFP award – The Philippine Center For Investigative Journalism has won Agence France-Presse’s Kate Webb Award for its fearless work in the world’s deadliest country for reporters,

Main News – Qualified OFWs, seamen voters reach 589,830 – The Comelec said Thursday that overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and seafarers qualified to vote in the May 10, 2010 polls have reached a total of 589,830.

Main News – Restive Mayon a tourist draw – Local and foreign tourists have started flocking to Albay to take a glimpse of the glowing lava flow from rumbling Mayon Volcano.

Main News – RP seeks establishment of more wind farms – The Philippines eyes to rely more on renewable energy to reduce the country’s carbon footprint, President Arroyo said.

Main News – SC junks plea of Korean – The Supreme Court (SC) has upheld the decision of the Court of Appeals (CA) which junked the petition of a Korean national who sought to redeem some $2.1 million worth

Main News – SC orders reraffle of Maguindanao case – Chief Justice Reynato S. Puno has ordered Quezon City Regional Trial Court Executive Judge Ofelia Marquez to reraffle the Ampatuan multiple murder case this Thursday.

Main News – US hikes aid to Manila – The US government has increased its grant assistance to the Philippines to $135.1 million for fiscal year 2010.

Main News – Valenzuela fire victims get cash aid – Some 312 families left homeless by two separate fires in Valenzuela City received financial assistance extended by the city government to enable them cope with the

Opinion – 153rd Birth Anniversary of Graciano Lopez Jaena – “Graciano Lopez Jaena,” wrote University of the Philippines President Dr. Rafael Palma, “was among the first to have in their conscience the suggestive crying of the

Opinion – 8.8.8. – Below the Line

Opinion – Goodbye 2009 – Chaff from the Grain

Opinion – International Migrants Day – International Migrants Day is celebrated on December 18 each year.

Opinion – Islamic New Year – Editorial

Opinion – Jesus in Christmas – Voice from the South

Opinion – Low expectations in Copenhagen – Analysis

Opinion – National Day of Niger – Tomorrow, Dec. 18, is the National Day of Niger.

Opinion – Reforms in the power sector – Page Eleven

Opinion – Situation normal, all fouled up – Merry-Go-Round

Opinion – The birth of Jesus – Reflections

Opinion – Tribute to Fritz R. Gemperle – Changing World

Opinion – Vietnam’s arms deal with Russia – Analysis

Regional – AFP turns over P35 million Negros Oriental infra projects – The 53rd Engineer Brigade of the Central Command is set to turn-over P35 million worth of infrastructure projects in Negros Oriental before this year ends.

Regional – Baguio inventors win top 3 prizes in national contest – Baguio City’s entries to the National Invention Contests and Exhibits (NICE) 2009 held recently at the Philippine Trade and Training Center in Pasay City won first,

Regional – CAFGUs deployed in 3 Ifugao towns to avert NPA build-up – Police and military authorities in Ifugao approved the deployment of para-military forces in three remote towns to neutralize the bid of the New People’s Army (NPA) to

Regional – Councilor, 2 aides survive slay try – A councilor and his two aides cheated death after the firearm used by two men, believed to be hired assassins, jammed in Bangued, Abra Thursday morning.

Regional – DDB urges abaca planting in Cebu – The Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) is asking the private sector to support the agency’s alternative livelihood program helping farmers in Balamban town and other parts of

Regional – Extension of voters’ listing hailed – A lawmaker welcomes the decision of the Supreme Court (SC) extending the registration of voters for the May 10, 2010 national and local elections.

Regional – Gov’t turns over P5.8 M for livelihood projects – The Department of Agriculture–Mindanao Rural Development Program (DA-MRDP) has turned over some P5.809 million worth of livelihood projects in the Caraga Region.

Regional – Major Caticlan reclamation project to start early next year – The multi-million peso reclamation project in Barangay Caticlan, Malay, Aklan is expected to commence January of next year, according to Niven Maquirang, Caticlan Jetty

Regional – P.N.P. sends cops to Maguindanao – The Philippine National Police in Davao sent off at 7 a.m. last Wednesday 65 police officers from Davao del Sur, Davao del Norte and Davao City Police Office who will

Regional – Retired cop slain in Ilocos ambush – A retired policeman was killed in a broad daylight ambush by motor riding unidentified suspects along the road in Barangay Ayusan Sur, Vigan City last Wednesday

Regional – Rewards set for escapees’ recapture – The Anti-Terrorism Council (ATC) has placed big cash rewards for informants who could provide information leading to the recapture of the inmates who bolted from the

Regional – Water firm mulls supply of 100 cubic meters by 2010 – In an effort to address the looming water supply problem in Cebu and the rest of the country, a local water technology provider is determined to expand its existing

Regional – Zambo mayor seeks more troops, strict implementation of gun ban – City Mayor Celso Lobregat has asked Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Norberto Gonzales to provide additional troops and help facilitate the strict

Manila Standard

Metro – Councilor to look into sale of Binondo streets – A Manila councilor wants to know if certain streets in Binondo have been included in the sale of two of the city’s patrimonial properties. Three-term Councilor Arlene

Metro – Eight firms get green awards – Environment Secretary Joselito Atienza has named two firms in the metropolis and six others in neighboring provinces as models in the country’s campaign against

Metro – Road rage suspect plays cat and mouse – THE suspect in the killing of a Malacañang official’s son remains elusive after the Quezon City Police District came up empty handed in a raid on Wednesday afternoon in

Metro – Soliciting banned in Navotas – Navotas Mayor Toby Tiangco has ordered all city executives and employees to avoid any form of solicitation for Christmas parties. He also instructed department heads to

Nation – BIR eyes cockpits to boost collection – INTERNAL Revenue will intensify its campaign to tax small businessmen in the provinces by getting more information on their operations, an official said Wednesday. Less

Nation – Candidates asked to bare medical records – A PRIVATE think tank associated with former President Fidel Ramos is urging all presidential aspirants to make their medical records public amid reports that one of them

Nation – Chief justice, Palace add spine to ‘coward’ judges – THE government will provide close-in security to the judge who agrees to try Datu Unsay Mayor Andal Ampatuan Jr. for murder, after a Quezon City judge assigned to the

Nation – Nacionalista recruiting stars to match Liberals – THE Nacionalista Party is trying to match the showbiz luster of the Liberal Party to draw bigger crowds to its rallies. So far, the party’s standard-bearer, Senator

Nation – Solid Group launches NinoyCory cell phones – LISTED firm Solid Group is launching today three NinoyCory variants of its “my|phone” cellular phones, a marketing strategy to push not only the homegrown brand but also

Nation – US immigration change backed – WASHINGTON—Hispanic, black, Asian and other House lawmakers backing immigration overhaul called Tuesday for legalizing illegal immigrants in the US, despite a weakened

Nation – Volcano menaces residents – MAYON volcano, which has blown its top nearly 40 times in 400 years, menaced nearby residents with small eruptions of ash and lava Wednesday as authorities moved more

Opinion – Christmas ham and Ragnarok – According to the news, the price of Christmas ham will probably go up by another 7 percent next week. The announcement was made by the president of the supermarket

Opinion – No country for frightened men – WE understand why anyone would fear a family accused of murdering 57 people one Monday morning in November. Certainly, with their obscene wealth, government connections

Opinion – Noynoy’s supposed integrity – Now that Bayani Fernando is no longer chairman of the Metro Manila Development Authority because he is running for vice president, his successor at the MMDA should rid

Opinion – The other Mindanao crisis – Today, an important meeting that could very well decide the fate of Mindanao will be held at Malacañang Palace. And no, it will have nothing to do with political

Manila Times – Business

Airline regulator expects uptick next year for foreign travel – The Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) said it expects international air travel to slightly recover next year on the back of airlines’ promotional offerings and the

Benguet insists MinMetals deal real – BENGUET Corp. told the Philippine Stock Exchange on Thursday that it is standing by its earlier disclosure of having signed an agreement with MinMetals International

BSP keeps key interest rates steady – By Maricel E. Burgonio Senior Reporter DURING its final policy meeting this year, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) kept its key interest rates steady, citing a

Malaysian-Indonesian row looms over Manila’s tollway – EXCLUSIVE By Darwin G. Amojelar Senior Reporter MTD Capital Berhad of Malaysia may give the First Pacific group of Indonesia’s Salim family a run for its money, as both

Philippines incurs dollar deficit on minimal inflows – The country’s balance of payments (BOP) posted a deficit in November because of the minimal inflow of investments and loans, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said.

PPA seeks delay in dividend payment – STATE-RUN Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) will ask the Department of Finance for permission to defer the remittance of dividends to the national government this year to

Smart reaches out to ‘Ondoy’ victims – BIZZ FIZZ By Rene Martel THE nation s leading telecom player Smart Communication s huge investments and continuing upgrade of its nationwide mobile phone network proved

SMIC sees retail, property units lifting profits – By Chino S. Leyco Reporter THE holding company of the SM group said it will achieve its full-year revenue and profit goals, citing the strength of its retail and

Status quo at SLEX – AFTER near scuffles with their workers, the joint partners operating the South Luzon Expressway’s (SLEX) have come to a modus vivendi at the Philippine capital’s gateway

Tax bureau to reshuffle officials anew – The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) said on Thursday it would reshuffle its officials after it collated the tax collection data showing who failed to meet their

Manila Times – Nation

ABS-CBN clears visa flap involving John Lloyd Cruz – Actor John Lloyd Cruz voluntarily is back in Manila after being questioned by Japan immigration during a recent trip to Japan over his apparently questionable visa, Star

Deployment of OFWs up by 11.7 percent in 2009 – BY BERNICE CAMILLE V. BAUZON REPORTER The total number of deployed overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) increased 11.7 percent to 1.2 million this year, according to the

Deployment of OFWs up by 11.7% in 2009 – BY BERNICE CAMILLE V. BAUZON REPORTER The total number of deployed overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) increased 11.7 percent to 1.2 million this year, according to the

Military drops thousands of surrender leaflets in Basilan – BASILAN: Two Philippine military choppers dropped some 14,000 leaflets on Thursday over a large area in Basilan province urging citizens to help authorities recapture 28

Wife wants her marriage to husband who lives like a bachelor annulled – BY PERSIDA ACOSTA Dear PAO, I just want to consult on how to file for an annulment. My husband and I got separated sometime in February 2007 because of personal

Manila Times – Opinion

High tide, low tide, Yuletide – BY MARYLAINE LOUISE VIERNES I almost didn’t make it to The Manila Times roundtable discussion with CNN’s Hero of the Year awardee, Mr. Efren Peñaflorida, because of

International Migrants Day – IF there is a particular group of Filipinos that deserve being called heroes it is the overseas Filipino workers and those who have become migrant-residents and

Mediocrity, ignorance and prejudice – BY MA. ISABEL ONGPIN The Comelec’s latest doings are bringing us close to the road to disaster, man-made disaster as is the wont in these parts. The insistence on full

Misconceptions about RFID tags clarified – BY DAN MARIANO Barring a court restraining order, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) will start implementing soon its radio frequency identification (RFID) project.

Shakespeare, lawyers, etc. – T.G.I.F BY RENE SAGUISAG Three items appearing this week in another esteemed paper may need correction or clarification: 1. “The first thing we do, let’s kill all the

Strengthening teacher education – BY FELIZARDO Y. FRANCISCO The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) through the initiatives of Commissioner Nenalyn Defensor held a “Consultative Conference on

Vietnam aims to counter China with $2-billion Russian arms deal – BY IAN TIMBERLAKE AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE HANOI: Vietnam’s major arms deal with Russia, reported to involve the purchase of six submarines, aims to bolster claims against

Manila Times – Regions

Japan donates fertilizers to typhoon-stricken regions – SEVEN regions in the country seriously hit by tropical storm Ondoy and Typhoon Pepeng would receive 13,500 metric tons (MT) of fertilizers from the government of Japan,

Major eruption for Mayon likely – volcanologist – LEGAZPI City: A major eruption of a volatile Philippine volcano could be just weeks away, scientists warned Thursday, as thousands of residents faced the prospect of

Philippine Star – Headlines

2 siblings leading armed CVOs – Two siblings in the Ampatuan family have taken over leadership of the clan’s fully armed civilian supporters who took part in the Nov. 23 massacre of 57 civilians

3rd Basilan escapee captured – Government security forces recaptured another one of the 31 inmates freed by a group of armed men last Sunday in a violent jailbreak at the Basilan provincial jail that

Automated polls to push through – Sarmiento – The Commission on Elections is preparing for possible manual polls in 30 percent of the country.

Birthday boy Pacman pitches for Villar – More than a thousand came to celebrate Manny Pacquiao’s 31st birthday last night at the KCC Events and Convention Center here.

Comelec issues guidelines on ‘total’ gun ban – The Commission on Elections (Comelec) yesterday imposed a total gun ban by recalling the firearms permits of government security forces as well as private individuals

Curfew to be enforced in Mayon danger zones – The provincial government of Albay has ordered the military and police to impose a curfew starting today to keep residents out of harm s way in the face of the imminent

Enrile backs Debt for Climate Change Adaptation Swap – Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile supported yesterday the Debt for Climate Change Adaptation Swap, in which portions of the country’s payments for foreign debts

House to start probe of ARMM funds in January – The investigation into the alleged misuse of the annual P10-billion allocation to the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) will be conducted in January next year,

Lava flows from the crater of Mayon volcano as alert level 3 is raised within its vicinity.     EDD GUMBAN – The provincial government of Albay has ordered the military and police to impose a curfew starting today to keep residents out of harm’s way in the face of the

Public told: Don’t pig out on unhealthy food, drinks – The Department of Health DOH yesterday warned the public against pigging out on unhealthy food and drinks this Yuletide season

Quezon City Judge Jocelyn Solis-Reyes (inset) will try the suspects in the Maguindanao massacre, including Datu Unsay Mayor Andal Ampatuan Jr. – A female Quezon City judge will take on the task shunned by her colleague – to try the powerful Ampatuan clan for multiple murder.

Record number of journalists killed in 2009 – CPJ – The November massacre of 30 media workers in the Philippines made 2009 the deadliest year ever for journalists, according to a report to be released today.

Solis-Reyes well-trained in prosecution, defense – The woman judge on whose lap fell the controversial multiple murder cases against the powerful Ampatuan clan has been well trained in both defense and prosecution,

Water rates up by P1.30 – Starting January next year, households in eastern Metro Manila consuming 30 cubic meters of water monthly would be paying an additional P1.30 per day, Ayala-controlled

Woman judge gets Ampatuan case – A female Quezon City judge will take on the task shunned by her colleague to try the powerful Ampatuan clan for multiple murder

Philippine Star – Metro

3 government agencies forge ties to tighten RP borders – The government has tightened the country’s borders to stop smuggling and human trafficking and prevent the entry of diseases.

Bureau of Customs, Interpol seize ‘hot cars’ from Japan – The Bureau of Customs (BOC) and the International Police seized two vehicles stolen from Japan when the shipment arrived at Port Irene in the Cagayan Economic Zone

Caloocan City Jail warden Superintendent Lyndon Torres talks to Linda Santiago (center), who was one of the 16 inmates ordered released by the Supreme Court yesterday.       ERNIE PEÑAREDONDO – The Supreme Court’s Justice on Wheels yesterday ordered the release of at least 16 Caloocan City Jail inmates in time for Christmas after a two-hour special

Caloocan to clamp down on banned firecrackers – Caloocan City Mayor Enrico “Recom” Echiverri yesterday ordered the city’s public safety officials to strictly enforce Republic Act 7183, which bans

Cayetano to Comelec: Jamby not qualified for presidency – Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano said yesterday Sen. Jamby Madrigal was a nuisance candidate and must be disqualified by the Commission on Elections from the presidential race.

Marlene Aguilar Pollard talks to police officers looking for her son, Jason Ivler, at her house in Blue Ridge subdivision, Quezon City Wednesday night. Inset shows a recent sketch of Ivler and a photograph taken of him after he was arrested for figuring in a 2004 car crash that killed presidential adviser Nestor Ponce.      BOY SANTOS – The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) said yesterday the reward for the capture of 27-year-old Jason Aguilar Ivler, tagged in the murder of a son of

MMDA: No new ‘coding’ exemptions for holidays – As part of its plan to ease the heavy flow of vehicular traffic in Metro Manila during the holidays, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority said yesterday it will

Reward for Ivler’s arrest raised to P1 million – The National Bureau of Investigation NBI said yesterday the reward for the capture of 27 year old Jason Aguilar Ivler tagged in the murder of a son of Malaca ang

Supreme Court’s Justice on Wheels frees 16 Caloocan inmates – The Supreme Court s Justice on Wheels yesterday ordered the release of at least 16 Caloocan City Jail inmates in time for Christmas after a two hour special hearing at

‘Troublemaker’ dead, cop hurt in Parañaque – A Pasay policeman suffered several stab wounds and the man he was chasing for allegedly causing trouble was killed in an encounter in Barangay Sto Ni o Para aque City

Philippine Star – Nation

Batangas town mayor charged with graft – The Office of the Ombudsman filed graft charges before the Sandiganbayan against a municipal mayor of Batangas for procuring computers in 2004 in the amount of

Business exec slugs it out with Rommel Padilla – A businessman sitting as the top honcho in at least five companies is again plunging into politics from the corporate world to slug it out with a prominent movie actor

CAAP denies Caticlan airport dangerous to planes, passengers – The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines on Wednesday denied the allegations of a Marikina congressman that the Caticlan airport is a hazard to aircraft because

Leftist in NP senatorial lineup is hara-kiri! – I m glad that Pres Gloria Macapagal Arroyo GMA finally spoke her mind on why she declared martial law

Padaca holds ground as Dy fails to secure writ of execution – Governor Grace Padaca has a 15-day period to file another motion for reconsideration had the poll body again favored her rival’s motion to eventually make her

Teodoro comes to rescue of hydrocephalus baby – Ex-defense chief and Lakas-Kampi-CMD presidential bet Gilbert “Gibo” Teodoro Jr., literally came to the rescue of a one-year-old hydrocephalus-stricken

Truck falls into ravine; 3 killed – A truck loaded with fresh Benguet highland vegetables fell into a 200-foot ravine along Camp 3, barangay here minutes before noon yesterday killing all of its

Philippine Star – Opinion

2 officials still harassing septuagenarian-widow – There’s only one-way to settle the aerial spraying debate: by science. And since the protagonists already brought it to her, President Arroyo can now order state

Candid moments – Our second favorite presidential spokesperson (after AbCerge Remonde), Lore n Lei Fajardo, has been relegated to the freezer, according to Palace officials.

EDITORIAL – Best-efforts pledge – The Commission on Elections announced yesterday a nationwide gun ban that will be in effect during the election period starting Jan 10

Perception – The November 4-8 SWS survey shows that the Noynoy-Mar team’s lead in the polls is dwindling.

Unfair trade or unfair tirade – Mercury Drug Store is without doubt the country s biggest chain of drugstores in the Philippines

Wanted: Experienced bus driver – Choosing the right leader to lead and sit at the highest post in the land is like looking for an experienced bus driver who can take us — as the passengers —

Dec. 15, 7pm—Dec. 16, 7pm

ABS-CBN – Business

Benguet to list 2 units in PSE by way of intro – MANILA, Philippines – Benguet Corp. is planning to list the shares of 2 of its subsidiaries on the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) by way of introduction sometime next

BIR to lose P6.3-B in income taxes due to typhoons – MANILA, Philippines – The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) is expecting the effects of typhoons “Ondoy” and “Pepeng” (international code names Ketsana and Parma,

British Airways, strike union to resume talks – LONDON, England — The two sides in the British Airways dispute agreed to talk Wednesday, days before cabin crew are set to go on a 12-day strike that will cause chaos

Chinese miner denies inking financial deal with Benguet – MANILA, Philippines – China MinMetals Corp. has denied signing a funding agreement with listed Benguet Corp. for the development and commercial operations of a gold and

‘Deficit spending to cover storm rehab costs’ – MANILA, Philippines – Acting socioeconomic planning secretary Augusto Santos is expecting the Philippines to engage in deficit spending in the next 3 years to cover the

Euro under pressure in Asia – TOKYO – The euro fell in Asian trade Wednesday, hit by stronger-than-expected US economic data and worries about problems in the European banking sector, dealers said.

‘Historic day’ as Boeing’s 787 Dreamliner takes to the skies – EVERETT, Washington, United States– After more than two years of delays, Boeing’s 787 Dreamliner made its maiden flight Tuesday in a three-hour trip that the maker

House body OK’s move to authorize advance collection of firms’ income tax – MANILA, Philippines – The House of Representatives ways and means committee yesterday approved a proposal to authorize the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) to collect in

HSBC survey: Fund managers bullish on bonds, less optimistic about equities – MANILA, Philippines – Global fund managers are currently more bullish on bonds and less optimistic about equities as an investment class, according to the findings of a

Interest rates seen steady, no rush to tighten – MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine central bank looks set to keep its policy interest rate steady at a record low on Thursday and is widely expected to signal it is in

Less money for statistics may lead to failed programs–NSCB – MANILA, Phlippines – If the government invests less on statistics, the National Statistical Coordination Board (NSCB) warned that there would be a higher chance that

Oil prices up in Asian trade – SINGAPORE – Oil prices were stable in Asian trade on Wednesday as dealers weighed recent price falls against a firming US dollar, analysts said.

Philippine shares close lower following US decline – MANILA, Philippines – Philippine share prices closed 0.47% lower on Wednesday in reaction to a decline in US stocks, dealers said.

Philippines buys 62,500 T more rice from Nov 4 tender: source – MANILA, Philippines – The Philippines will buy 62,500 tons more rice from a tender last month, a government source said on Wednesday, as the world’s biggest rice

President Arroyo: Philippine economy in better shape than I found it – In a recent interview with the Philippines’ “economist-in-chief,” New York-based think tank, GlobalSource Partners, asked President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo about her

RP consumer confidence improves in 2nd half: survey – MANILA, Philippines – Consumer confidence in the Philippines improved slightly in the second half of the year due to a positive outlook towards regular income in the

San Miguel unit tops bid for San Roque hydro plant – MANILA, Philippines – A unit of Philippine food-to-power conglomerate San Miguel Corp. submitted the highest bid of $450 million for the contract to manage a

Select Metrobank branches open during the holidays – MANILA, Philippines – Metropolitan Bank & Trust Co. (Metrobank) has announced it will open select branches to accommodate the public’s banking needs during the holidays.

Tax bureau goes after market vendors, cockpit operators – MANILA, Philippines – After bazaars and electoral candidates, the Philippines’ main tax bureau now has its eyes on small businessmen such as market vendors and cockpit

ABS-CBN – Metro Manila

2 cars stolen in one night in QC

Korean jumps from building’s 54th floor in Manila – MANILA, Philippines – A Korean national died after jumping off the 54th floor of a building in Manila on Tuesday afternoon.

Police fail to find road rage suspect at mom’s house – MANILA, Philippines – Police still failed on Wednesday to find the suspect in the murder of Renato Victor Ebarle Jr., son of assistant secretary Renato Ebarle after

ABS-CBN – Nation

10 more Ampatuan clan members face rebellion raps – MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine National Police filed rebellion charges against 10 more members of the Ampatuan clan and more than 600 “rebellion sub-leaders” and

Alleged Abu Sayyaf co-founder brought to the Philippines – Arestado ang isa sa founding members ng Abu Sayyaf Group sa paglapag nito sa NAIA matapos mahuli sa Indonesia at ipa-deport sa Pilipinas. Nakatakdang i-extradite sa

Arroyo says sorry to media – Humingi ng dispensa si Pangulong Arroyo sa pagiging mailap sa media sa loob ng 9 na taong panunungkulan. May ipinangako ring New Year’s resolution ang Pangulo.

Arroyo sorry for being wary of reporters – MANILA, Philippines – Less than 6 months before her term ends, President Arroyo has vowed to turn over a new leaf and be more available to reporters assigned to cover

Bongbong Marcos wants to be president – MANILA – The son of late Philippine dictator Ferdinand Marcos announced Wednesday he was aiming to become president of the Southeast Asian nation and insisted his family

CA bypasses Cuenco as new envoy to Italy – MANILA, Philippines – The appointment of Cebu City Rep. Antonio Cuenco as Philippine ambassador to Italy hit a snag on Wednesday after senator-members of the Commission

‘Charge cops at checkpoint in Maguindanao massacre’ – MANILA, Philippines – The Freedom Fund for Filipino Journalists (FFFJ) on Wednesday called on the Department of Justice (DOJ) to also file murder charges against the 4

CJ Puno talks with QC judges on Ampatuan case – Nanghimasok na si Chief Justice Reynato Puno sa problema sa hahawak sa kaso ng Maguindanao massacre sa Quezon City Regional Trial Court! Ito’y matapos tanggihan ni Judge

Comelec to appeal SC ruling on extended voters’ registration – MANILA, Philippines – A Commission on Elections official on Wednesday said there is no need to extend the nationwide registration of voters since the poll body has

Comelec: Smartmatic-TIM won’t be fined yet – Kahit pa naantala na ang delivery ng mga makinang gagamitin sa automated polls, hindi pagmumultahin Comelec ang Smartmatic-TIM sa bawat araw ng delay sa delivery nito,

Disqualified candidates slam Comelec – Umalma ngayon ang mga kandidatong dinisqualify ng Comelec! Ayon sa kanila, walang basehan at padalos-dalos ang Comelec sa pagbasura sa kanilang kandidatura.

Ex-child assassin: ‘I killed hundreds for the Ampatuans’ – MANILA, Philippines – A man who admits to have worked as a child assassin for the powerful Ampatuan clan based in Maguindanao province came forward with “shocking”

Lim to appeal disqualification from Senate race – MANILA, Philippines – Suspected coup plotter Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim on Wednesday protested the Commission on Elections’ decision to disqualify him from the Senate race in

More Pinoys see a better year ahead: poll – Kahit nadale ng krisis at nadale ng mga kalamidad, marami pa ring Pinoy ang nag-aasam ng mas magandang Bagong Taon. Ito ang lumabas sa survey ng Pulse Asia.

More price cuts for drugs postponed for 2010 – MANILA, Philippines –Price cuts for new batch of medicines were postponed for 2010 as insufficient manpower and delays in information sourcing stymied the expansion of

Next president should ensure continuity in energy programs–expert – MANILA, Philippines – Key energy programs should be continued despite changes in the administration, an energy expert stressed at the first web-exclusive forum hosted by

Perlas blasts Comelec for pro-rich bets ruling – MANILA, Philippines – Environmentalist Nicanor Perlas said on Wednesday that the Commission on Elections’ (Comelec) basis for dropping his name from the list of

Philhealth to suspend hospitals found to file fake claims – Desidido na ang PhilHealth na ipa-suspinde ang mga ospital na mapapatunayang nandadaya ng mga claims at namemeke ng mga dokumento ng pasyente. Umalma naman ang mga

Problems with poll automation piling up – MANILA, Philippines – Trouble is brewing in the Philippines’ first nationwide poll automation, and the signs are slowly unfolding.

Puno vows security for judge in massacre case – Case reraffle set on Thursday MANILA, Philippines – Supreme Court Chief Justice Reynato Puno on Wednesday vowed to give ample security to the Quezon City judge who will

SC urged to stop radio frequency ID project – MANILA, Philippines – Various groups on Wednesday urged the Supreme Court to declare as unconstitutional a government plan to put radio frequency ID tags on all vehicles

Smartmatic-TIM says COMELEC also delayed – MANILA, Philippines – Smartmatic-TIM cried foul over critics’ attacks on the adjusted delivery schedule for the Precinct Count Optical Scan (PCOS) machines which will be

Sponsors of Tiger Woods withdraw – Sponsors of Tiger Woods withdraw

‘Subsidies not the solution to high oil prices’ – MANILA, Philippines – With oil prices on the rise anew, calls for the scrapping the oil deregulation law are again being made. However, an energy expert points out that

Survey: 86% of Pinoys optimistic about coming year – MANILA, Philippines – Nearly half of Filipinos (49%) believe Christmas this year will be no different than last year’s while a big majority is looking forward to the

Villar warned vs tying up with Communists – MANILA, Philippines – A leader of an anti-Communist party on Wednesday warned presidential aspirant Senator Manuel Villar of the “dire consequences” of the Nacionalista

ABS-CBN – Regions

70 tremors recorded in restless Mayon – Mahigit 70 pagyanig ang naitala sa Bulkang Mayon sa loob ng isang araw. Kaya naman nagsagawa ng aerial survey ang mga otoridad para suriin ang kundisyon ng bulkan. Mula

78 tremors recorded around Mayon – MANILA, Philippines – A total of 78 tremors were recorded around Mayon Volcano Wednesday, prompting scientists and government officials to conduct an aerial survey of

Abu Sayyaf co-founder arrested: Philippine government – MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine government announced Wednesday one of the co-founders of the Abu Sayyaf extremist group had been arrested after being detained at

Belen competition in Tarlac aims to revive lost tradition – Muling nagpatalbugan sa pagandahan ng Belen ang mga taga-Tarlac. Iba’t-iba ang naging inspirasyon sa 3rd Belen contest  na layong ibalik ang tradisyong Pinoy sa

Birthday party in Dasmariñas turns bloody; 3 killed – CAMP VICENTE LIM, Laguna – Unidentified gunmen shot and killed three people who were celebrating a friend’s birthday party in Dasmarinas, Cavite Tuesday evening.

Body recovered behind Ampatuan Sr.’s mansion – MANILA, Philippines – Troops on Wednesday found a body of a man, who is believed to be a member of an armed group that fired at security forces while unearthing an arms

Cops disarm 2 CVOs in Ilocos Norte – MANILA, Philippines – Two Civilian Volunteer Organization (CVO) members have been disarmed in Ilocos Norte province, police said Wednesday.

EU extends help to victims of conflict in North Cotabato – DAVAO CITY, Philippines – 33-year-old Myra Dali has learned to smile again. But only after a year of running from place to place to escape the conflict between Moro

Experts’ warning: Mayon crisis could last for ‘months’ – LEGASPI CITY, Philippines – Lava poured down Mayon volcano Wednesday as experts warned it could erupt for months, meaning thousands of villagers will spend Christmas in

‘I killed more than 100 for Ampatuans since I was 12! – Lumutang ngayon ang isang umano’y dating child assassin ng pamilya Ampatuan. At ayon sa kanya, mahigit 100 tao ang kanyang pinatay bilang pagsunod umano sa utos ng mga

Mayon sends thousands to evacuation centers – Posibleng sa evacuation centers mag-Pasko ang libo-libong inilikas bunsod ng pag-aalburuto ng Mayon. Puwersahan nang pinalilikas ang mga nakatira sa loob ng danger zone.

Mayon: Nature’s grand creation mask a deadly disaster – Nakatutok na rin ang mga Boto Patroller sa sitwasyon ng Bulkang Mayon sa Albay. Bagamat pambihirang tanawin para sa maraming Bikolano ang nag-aalborotong bulkan,

Mommy Dionisia ready for Manny’s big party

More lava flows from Mayon – MANILA, Philippines – Lava continued to flow from Mayon Volcano’s mouth coupled with more high frequency volcano earthquakes, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and

Ozamis flood reported by Boto Patroller – Kapamilya, patuloy pa ring nakabantay ang mga Boto Patroller sa buong bansa para iparating ang mga problema sa kanilang lugar. TV Patrol World, Miyerkules, Disyembre 16,

Police show alleged machine gun of Andal Jr. used in massacre – MANILA, Philippines – Police on Wednesday showed off to media machine guns, mortars, armored carriers allegedly recovered from weapons and ammunition caches purportedly

Serendra blast victim cremated – BACOLOD CITY, Negros Occidental – The burned remains of Remegio Ang, the victim of Tuesday’s car blast in Taguig City, has been cemated and is scheduled to be brought

GMA News.tv Breaking

“Extension of voters listup to delay poll preparations further” – The Commission on Elections (Comelec) said Wednesday that it will file a motion for clarification with the Supreme Court, explaining that extending voter”s registration

`Up in the Air’ leads Golden Globes with 6 nominations – BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. – The recession-era tale “Up in the Air” led Golden Globe film contenders Tuesday with six nominations, among them best drama and acting honors for

29,000 Albay residents moved to safer grounds – governor – Nearly 29,000 people in Albay have been sent to evacuation centers as of Wednesday noon as the province braces for the possible eruption of Mayon Volcano.

Army beefs up forces in Bukidnon after clashes – ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines – The Philippine Army on Wednesday beefed up its forces in the southern province of Bukidnon to go against communist rebels a day after a

Arroyo poll lawyer throws support behind embattled Padaca – “I was just fulfilling my promise.” This was lawyer Romulo Macalintal”s explanation for throwing his support for his friend Isabela Gov. Grace Padaca, who is being

Aussie scientists find coconut-carrying octopus – Australian scientists have discovered an octopus in Indonesia that collects coconut shells for shelter – unusually sophisticated behavior that the researchers believe is

Benguet Corp. seeks retirement of entire debts – Listed mining firm Benguet Corp. expressed confidence that it would be able to settle its debts to creditors, a company official told reporters on Wednesday.

Birthday gift: Pacquiao in league with ring greats – Filipino ring icon Manny Pacquiao had an early birthday present when he was named as the second best fighter of all time, next only to the late great Sugar Ray Robinson,

Blast kills 33 near lawmaker’s home in Pakistan – A suicide attacker detonated a car bomb in a market close to a politician’s home in central Pakistan, killing 33 people and showing the increasing reach of Taliban

Climate talks deadlocked as clashes erupt outside – (Updated 8:45 p.m.) COPENHAGEN – Danish police fired pepper spray and beat protesters with batons outside the U.N. climate conference on Wednesday, as disputes inside

Comelec should consider bill mandating partial election automation – The Philippines should consider partial automation of next year”s polls following reports that teachers – some of whom will act as election inspectors – may lack time to

DA: Letterman suspect sought to mask blackmail – A TV producer accused of trying to blackmail David Letterman for $2 million said he needed money to visit his son and would mask the transaction as a business deal,

Gov”t has competition: Armed group also searching for hidden arms – Government security forces have competition. They are not the only ones looking for hidden firearms and ammunition in Maguindanao. Another group is trying to beat them

Hunt is on for post-crash Tiger Woods photos – The hunt for Tiger Woods is on, or at least the first photographs of the golf superstar since his late-night car crash and damaging news of his marital problems.

Lava from Mount Mayon threatens thousands in Albay – Mount Mayon’s near-perfect cone is threatening to explode, driving more than 30,000 Albay residents to seek safer ground. One of the nation’s iconic images, Mayon is one

Man gets P350,000 for info on Basilan jail escapee – BASILAN, Philippines – A civilian on Tuesday received a P350,000 reward for helping authorities track down two of the 31 inmates who bolted out of a prison facility in

Man gets P350,000 for info on Basilan jail escapees – BASILAN, Philippines – A civilian on Tuesday received a P350,000 reward for helping authorities track down two of the 31 inmates who bolted out of a prison facility in

Michael Jackson estate administrators seek payment – LOS ANGELES – The administrators of Michael Jackson’s estate and a cadre of attorneys are seeking millions for managing the King of Pop’s affairs after death, court

Outcome unclear as leaders arrive at climate talks – The success of the U.N. climate conference hung in the balance Tuesday as China and the US deadlocked over whether Beijing will allow the world to check its books and

Pacquiao 2nd greatest ever boxer in online poll – Filipino ring icon Manny Pacquiao is the second best fighter of all time, next only to the late great Sugar Ray Robinson, final result from the World’s Greatest Ever

Police execs admit having a hard time disbanding CVOs – Police officials admitted during a Senate hearing on Tuesday that authorities were having a hard time breaking up the so-called civilian volunteer organizations (CVO),

Protesters try to disrupt UN climate talks – COPENHAGEN – More than 100 climate activists were detained Wednesday for trying to break into a U.N. conference where 193 nations are deadlocked in talks on a deal to

Pulse Asia: 86% of Pinoys look forward to 2010 with hope – After a year marred with natural, political and economic turbulence, nearly nine of 10 Filipinos are hopeful the coming year will be better, according to a survey by

Raps filed vs Agusan hostage-takers – The government on Tuesday filed kidnapping with serious illegal detention complaints against the leader and members of the tribal group responsible for the three-day

RP lady boxers punch way to 3 SEA Games golds – Josie Gabuco, Alice Kate Aparri and Asian champion Annie Albania punched their way to the gold medal in women”s boxing of the 25th Southeast Asian Games Wednesday at the

Spike in wholesale inflation sends US stocks lower – The stock market fell for the first time in five days and Treasurys slipped after a jump in inflation stoked concerns that the Federal Reserve would be forced to raise

Stay away from Mayon, US advises citizens – The United States government on Tuesday advised its citizens to stay away from Mayon Volcano in Albay province after state volcanologists placed it under Alert Level 3.

US-China showdown looms over climate talks – COPENHAGEN – A showdown between the world’s two largest polluters loomed over the U.N. climate talks Tuesday as China accused the United States and other rich nations of

GMA News.tv Business

Benguet Corp. seeks retirement of entire debt – Listed mining firm Benguet Corp. expressed confidence that it would be able to settle its debts to creditors, a company official told reporters on Wednesday.

Boeing’s 787 jetliner makes first test flight – Boeing’s new 787 jetliner finally got airborne Tuesday, the long-delayed inaugural flight of the world’s first commercial plane constructed with half its components made

BSP likely to keep policy rates at Thursday meet – The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is expected to maintain its policy rates when it meets tomorrow, with consumer prices unlikely to be a problem in the short term, a

Century Properties ties up with Columbian Motors for Paranaque project – Century Properties would be partnering with Columbian Motors Group of Companies for a nine-building residential development in Paranaque City.

GMA Network expects profits to exceed P2.8B – Listed GMA Network, Inc. expects to end the year with more than P2.8 billion in profits, after exceeding its full-year target in November.

House body OK’s advanced BIR tax collection for big taxpayers – The House of Representatives ways and means committee approved on Tuesday a proposal allowing the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) to collect in advance for the next two

Manila keen on settlement with EU on liquor tax dispute – The Philippines is seeking talks with the European Union to dissuade it from pursuing its plea for the World Trade Organization (WTO) to rule on their dispute over local

Prices rise slightly in fourth rice auction for 2010 supply – The Philippines, the world”s largest rice importer, received slightly higher price offers from traders at an auction on Tuesday for 600,000 metric tons (MT) of rice -

RP shares track Wall Street’s decline – Philippine share prices retreated on Wednesday, tracking the overnight decline of Wall Street.

San Miguel bags power deal with San Roque hydro plant – San Miguel Corp. won another power asset on Tuesday night after it bagged the right to manage the state”s supply contract with the 345-megawatt (MW) San Roque

Survey says GMA Network Mega Manila”s top of mind TV station – GMA Network, Inc. was slightly ahead of rival ABS-CBN as the top of mind free-to-air TV station in Mega Manila, a survey on audience perception by AGB Nielsen

Trading of Benguet Corp. shares to resume Thursday – The suspension of trading of shares of debt-ridden mining firm Benguet Corp. will be lifted on Thursday.

TRB sides with Malaysian investors in dispute over SLEx – The state-led Philippine National Construction Corp. (PNCC) has been stripped of its power to directly operate the South Luzon Expressway (SLEx).

GMA News.tv Nation

100 families lose houses in Quezon City fire – At least 100 families will face Christmas homeless after a fire razed some 50 houses in their community in Quezon City Tuesday night.

86% of Pinoys look forward to 2010 with hope – After a year marred with natural, political and economic turbulence, nearly nine of 10 Filipinos are hopeful the coming year will be better, according to a survey by

9 of 10 Filipinos see hope in 2010 – Pulse Asia – After a year marred with natural, political and economic turbulence, nearly nine of 10 Filipinos are hopeful the coming year will be better, according to a survey by

9 of 10 Filipinos see hope in 2010 – survey – After a year marred with natural, political and economic turbulence, nearly nine of 10 Filipinos are hopeful the coming year will be better, according to a survey by

Airport personnel told: Don”t greet passengers Merry Christmas – Balikbayans and tourists can look forward to happy holidays this Yuletide season as the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) gears up for the needs of

Andal Sr odered the killing of Mangudadatus, witness claims – “Kill them all.” This was the order that Andal Ampatuan Sr., the patriarch of the powerful and Arroyo-allied Ampatuan clan, allegedly gave on November 22, the day before

Bongbong: NP needs celebrity endorsers to get even with LP – Senator Manuel Villar Jr.’s Nacionalista Party should get celebrity endorsers such as singer-actress Sarah Geronimo if he wants to match the star-studded campaign

CA OKs appointments of 3 new envoys, bypasses 1 – The Commission on Appointments on Wednesday bypassed the appointment of Cebu Rep. Antonio Cuenco as ambassador to Italy due to the opposition of Senate Pro Tempore Jose

Candidates excluded in Comelec’s partial list demand explanation – Environmentalist Nicanor Perlas and detained Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim on Wednesday sought the explanation of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) on why they were not

Comelec, PPCRV urge voters to grab 2nd chance for registration – Filipinos should not waste the second chance and must not wait until the “last minute” to register for the 2010 elections now that the Supreme Court has extended the

DOJ chief: “Scared” QC judge in Ampatuan case must find another job – The Quezon City judge who inhibited himself from the murder case against a member of the Ampatuan clan for the murder of at least 57 people in Maguindanao province last

If you must wear a bahag on TV, do it right – Katribu party-list – Beverly Longid does not really watch Pinoy Big Brother, but she tuned in last night after receiving text messages from concerned viewers. The popular reality-TV show, it

Miriam hits practice of sending ambassadors to posts sans CA nod – Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago on Wednesday hit the practice of the government of sending its appointed ambassador to the other countries even without confirmation of

MMDA-DSWD teams no match with “elusive” child beggars? – Despite the combined efforts of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to rid the metropolis of

Pagasa expects fine weather during Christmas – Filipinos can expect generally fine weather as cyclones have little chance of forming during the Christmas holidays, state weather forecasters said Wednesday.

Palparan hits leftwing lawmakers’ senatorial bid – Bantay party-list Rep. Jovito Palparan on Wednesday warned the public against voting for militant lawmakers Satur Ocampo and Liza Maza, saying the two senatorial

Palparan hits leftwing lawmakers’ senatorial bids – Bantay party-list Rep. Jovito Palparan on Wednesday warned the public against voting for militant lawmakers Satur Ocampo and Liza Maza, saying the two senatorial

Partial poll automation should be considered due to orientation lack – The Philippines should consider partial automation of next year”s polls following reports that teachers – some of whom will act as election inspectors – may lack time to

Philippine banks urged to schedule ATM repair during offhours – Philippine banks were urged to schedule maintenance work of their cash machines during late nights or before dawn.

QC judge inhibits from Andal Jr. multiple murder case – It only took Judge Luisito Cortez of Quezon City a few minutes to decide that he should not handle the murder cases of the man allegedly behind the massacre of at least

RP national dailies carry ads defending martial law – A day after key government officials snubbed a Senate investigation on the issue, ads were placed in some Metro Manila newspapers lauding the eight-day martial law in

SC yet to rule on martial law issue – The Supreme Court on Tuesday deferred its oral argument on the seven petitions filed questioning the constitutionality of Proclamation 1959, which placed the entire

With “dragon woman” out, RP climate team loses teeth – COPENHAGEN, Denmark – On the eve of President Gloria Arroyo”s arrival for the most important meeting on climate change in over a decade, the Philippine delegation is in

GMA News.tv Regional

Army beefs up forces in Bukidnon after clashes with NPA – ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines – The Philippine Army on Wednesday beefed up its forces in the southern province of Bukidnon to go against communist rebels a day after a

Mayon activity puts Albay under state of imminent disaster – The raising of the alert level over Mayon Volcano has prompted Albay Governor Jose Salceda to declare a state of imminent disaster over the province.

Inquirer (Metro)

1,000 PNCC workers to receive separation pay – The South Luzon Tollway Corp. (SLTC) Tuesday said some 1,000 Philippine National Construction Corp. (PNCC) workers who would be laid off once a private firm takes over

19 get life for female exec’s kidnap-slay – A Quezon City court Tuesday sentenced to life imprisonment 19 people, including two women, for conspiring to kidnap and kill a Chinese-Filipino soft drink executive in

2 QC residents lose pricey vans to car thieves – Two expensive vans were forcibly taken by still unidentified persons in Quezon City on Tuesday, prompting the police to warn the public about the rise in car thefts in

Backhoe prepares school for demolition – A backhoe destroyed all three roads leading to Philippine Public Safety College (PPSC) in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, Tuesday morning, signaling the start of the

Cops fail to find Ivler after 2nd search in 2 QC houses – Jason Ivler, who has been linked to the killing of a son of a Malacañang official last month, could be under the care of “influential people,” said a police official

Did you know – Japanese immigrants in Manila helped quell the revolt of Chinese immigrants against Spaniards in 1603.

Fire hits shantytown community in QC – Three hundred families face the prospect of spending a bleak Christmas after they lost their homes when a fire razed their homes in New Manila, Quezon City, Tuesday

Man killed as car explodes in front of Taguig condo – A car exploded in front of an upscale condominium in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, shortly after noon Tuesday, killing the driver who was burned beyond recognition.

Metrobriefs – AN AILING German executive was found dead in his hotel room in Manila Tuesday morning. The body of Klaus Matthias Wolffe-Casado Revuelta, 59, regional manager of

QC cop linked to colleague’s slay arrested – Caloocan City policemen arrested on Tuesday the Quezon City police officer who allegedly gunned down a colleague and injured a security guard on Sunday morning.

Taguig goes green with Yuletide decor using water lily resources – It’s a green Christmas in Taguig City. A life-size belen (Nativity scene), a giant Christmas tree and holiday decor made of dried water lilies adorn the City Hall

Traders told to watch out for City Hall ‘inspectors’ – The Manila government Wednesday revealed the suspension of all kinds of inspection activities conducted by City Hall personnel in business establishments, following

Inquirer (Nation)

Aquino still No. 1 but Villar, Teodoro ratings up – The ratings of former Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro and Sen. Manny Villar are up in the latest Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey on presidential candidates.

Arms dealer: I thought I was on the side of the good guys – You’ve probably seen him on TV, he who often gets to display his patriotism as the Philippine flag-bearer among the supporters and high-rollers who swarm around boxing

Arroyo not sorry for martial law; SC move awaited – President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo Tuesday hit back at critics assailing her imposition of martial law in Maguindanao, saying she was offering “no apologies” for

Bishop Soc: Am ashamed of EDSA II beneficiary – “I’m ashamed, i’m ashamed that those who stood up on the holy ground of EDSA could compromise with evil and waltz with criminals,”

CHR: No martial law abuses in Maguindanao – The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) has found no rights violation during the eight-day martial rule in the province.

Dark Christmas for fleeing Mayon folk – Albay officials have begun moving thousands of villagers out of harm’s way near Mayon Volcano after it oozed lava and shot plumes of ash late Monday.

Disarming Maguindanao private armies to take a year – It could take up to a year for the authorities to completely dismantle the armed groups in Maguindanao, which according to police officials include not only the

Gunmen kidnap 4 persons, ambush troops in Maguindanao – Gunmen kidnapped four persons and ambushed troops in separate attacks in Maguindanao province, where 57 people were massacred last month, officials said Tuesday.

House delays approval of 2010 budget – After the Senate slashed budget allocations for the judiciary and the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, leaders of the administration-dominated House of

Marriage is good for you, just don’t end it, says study – WELLINGTON—Marriage really is good for you as it reduces the risks of depression and anxiety, according to a recent international study.

QC judge: What is glory without family – Told that he would be handling a landmark case, the judge said: “What is glory without a family.

RP proposal to cut carbon emissions gains ground – COPENHAGEN—The Philippine proposal for a “deep and early cut” in global carbon emissions has gained momentum here at the United Nations climate change summit, where some

SC extends voter’s registration until Jan. 9 – The Supreme Court Tuesday upheld a petition by a youth party-list group and directed the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to extend voter registration up to Jan. 9.

Inquirer (Regions)

Alaminos site of P65-M gov’t medical complex – A P65.4-million medical complex that will rise in the coastal village of Bolaney here will help push the potential of this city, home to the Hundred Islands National

Army starts big hunt for prison escapees – The military on Tuesday launched one of its biggest operations to recapture at least 29 inmates who were sprung by Moro rebels from the Basilan provincial jail last

Basilan state of emergency rejected – Malacañang has rejected proposals to declare a state of emergency, much less martial law, to stop a wave of crimes in Basilan province.

Newsbriefs – Police arrested a farm owner for failure to renew licenses to own guns, which were seized at a raid on his house in New Corella, Davao del Norte.

Think positive, stories tell relocated children – Green coconut leaves gently sway with the breeze, a cucumber field blooms yellow, and children run and play in the shadow of the cloud-capped Mayon Volcano at the

Manila Bulletin

Main News – 10 dead as soldiers, NPA rebels clash – Nine communist rebels and one soldier were killed after the military raided a guerrilla camp in Cagayan de Oro on Tuesday, the army said.

Main News – 3 killed, 1 hurt in bike mishaps – At least three persons died while one was injured in three separate motorcycle accidents that occurred the other day, authorities said Wednesday.

Main News – AFP official: Power struggle root cause of political violence – Brig. Gen. Romel Gomez said political violence is among the major setbacks to the peace and order initiatives of the national government which must be stopped by

Main News – Arroyo bares New Year resolution – President Arroyo said Wednesday that her New Year’s resolution is to be an “easier subject” to cover.

Main News – Bongbong trumpets presidential ambition – The son of late Philippine dictator Ferdinand Marcos announced Wednesday he was aiming to become president and insisted his family had nothing to be ashamed of.

Main News – Comelec bares new voter registration schedule – The Comelec will ask the Supreme Court to reconsider its decision extending to January 9, 2010 the registration of voters for the May 10, 2010 polls.

Main News – Comelec: No poll threat in Trece Martires City – There is no threat in Trece Martires City or elsewhere in Cavite in the upcoming elections, the Provincial Comelec said Wednesday.

Main News – Congress bill on subsidy set for third reading – The House of Representatives has set for third reading approval a bill that would increase the equivalent amount of subsidiary imprisonment of convicts from P8 to the

Main News – DFA: Envoy appointments constitutional – The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) reiterated that President Arroyo’s appointment of non-career ambassadors is constitutional, citing Republic Act (RA) 7157 or the

Main News – Erap camp confident disqualification cases will be dismissed – The spokesperson of former President Joseph Estrada “Erap” on Wednesday expressed confidence that the disqualification cases filed against him by different individuals

Main News – Experts note ’slow epidemic’ of AIDS – The HIV/AIDS incidence in the country continues to grow and is now being considered as a “slow epidemic” by experts.

Main News – Forced evacuation in Albay – Authorities have started enforcing mandatory evacuation for residents in critical areas around Mayon Volcano in Albay.

Main News – Garcia pleads not guilty to money laundering charges – Jailed retired Maj. Gen. Carlos F. Garcia pleaded not guilty Tuesday to the money laundering charge the Office of the Ombudsman recently filed against him and his

Main News – Lakas-Kampi-CMD Surigao ticket bared – Rep. Francisco T. Matugas is Lakas-Kampi-CMD bet in the first district of Surigao del Norte, while Rep. Guillermo Romarate is running for reelection in the province’s

Main News – Lawyers form TALIM to help Maguindanao massacre victims – Twenty-two lawyer’s group formed an alliance on Tuesday to press for justice and offer their legal services for free to make sure that the victims of the Maguindanao

Main News – LGUs to share taxpayer information with BIR – The government expects to raise an additional income of some P30 billion as a result of the mutual information sharing agreement it forged Wednesday with the country’s

Main News – Mayon volcano crisis could last for months – Lava poured down the Philippines’ Mayon volcano Wednesday as government experts warned it could erupt for months, meaning thousands of villagers will spend Christmas in

Main News – More Pinoys look forward to new year with optimism – Eight out of 10 Filipinos are still looking forward to 2010 with optimism, results of an independent survey showed.

Main News – Muslim world marks Islamic New Year – ARMM’s new leadership on Wednesday took time to join President Arroyo in greeting the Muslim world on the occasion of the Islamic New Year’s fete

Main News – NAMFREL seeks Comelec accreditation – NAMFREL chairman Jose L. Cuisia on Wednesday asked the Comelec for accreditation in order for them to help the poll body in ensuring an honest, orderly and peaceful

Main News – No toll fee hike — SLEx – The new operator of the South Luzon Expressway (SLEx) said Wednesday that no toll fee increase would be implemented yet on the tollway even if it takes over its

Main News – OWWA vows to help stranded overseas workers – The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration assured families that stranded overseas Filipino workers will be flown home immediately after they obtain the exit clearance

Main News – Pacman’s popularity opens door for RP delegation – Manny Pacquiao’s popularity has reached Denmark, paving the way for the advanced Philippine delegation to breeze through immigration scrutiny.

Main News – Philippines arrests alleged militant wanted by US – An alleged founder of an al-Qaida-linked Philippine militant group who is wanted by the U.S.

Main News – Police warn of rise in car theft – A sports utility vehicle (SUV) and a van were stolen in Quezon City Tuesday night, police said Wednesday while warning the public against a rise in car theft during the

Main News – QC judge urged to reconsider decision – Justice Secretary Agnes Devanaderaurged the Quezon City judge who was chosen to try the multiple murder charges against Datu Unsay mayor Andal Ampatuan Jr. to reconsider

Main News – RP listed among 12 most at risk to climate change – The Philippines is most vulnerable to strong weather disturbances due to climate change, a study says.

Main News – RP media far better than SEA neighbors, study says – Filipino journalists are tagged as better than their colleagues in Southeast Asia – not materially though, but their reporting and coverage on cases of child

Main News – Solons see signing of law for kids born out of wedlock – A bill seeking to allow the legitimization of children born out of wedlock to parents who later wed is expected to be enacted into law before the year ends after it has

Opinion – A new engine for global growth – Analysis

Opinion – Botong and Coching – Landscape

Opinion – Defining challenge of our century – Cerge for Truth

Opinion – Flights to leave big carbon footprint – Analysis

Opinion – National Day of Bhutan – Bhutan’s National Day is celebrated Thursday and commemorates the ascension to the throne of Ugyen Wangchuck, the first king of Bhutan, in 1907.

Opinion – No-confidence vote – Medium Rare

Opinion – Nuclear politics – A Global View

Opinion – Pain of venture in cost-benefit – Plain View

Opinion – Partners for good causes – At Issue

Opinion – PNP and AFP must stay alert – Punchline

Opinion – Protecting the Waters Month – Editorial

Opinion – The genealogy of Jesus – Reflections

Opinion – The global village we should build – Swimming Against the Current

Regional – 30 marijuana bricks seized – Combined police operatives and anti-narcotics operatives confiscated 30 bricks of dried marijuana leaves inside the baggage compartment of a Manila-bound passenger bus.

Regional – Adiong names Maguindanao vice governor – ARMM acting Gov. Ansaruddin Alonto Adiong has named a Maguindanao officer-in-charge vice governor and an ARMM Cabinet member to help him carry out his “enormous tasks”

Regional – Benguet town’s power potential uncovered – Environmentalists predicted this fifth-class town has the great potential of becoming the richest municipal governments in Northern Luzon.

Regional – Bleak Xmas for Benguet farmers – Thousands of farmers in in La Trinidad are facing a bleak Christmas and New Year after the prices of locally grown agricultural crops suddenly dropped over the past

Regional – Bohol BOSS is now ready to assist investors – Bohol now stands as the second province next to Cebu, in Central Visayas, to establish a Business One-Stop Shop in consonance with Republic Act 7470, or the Philippines

Regional – Both Houses approve creation of Mindanao corporate body – Mindanao’s ambition of establishing a government body that would foster continuity and consistency of interregional and Mindanao-wide programs would soon come to light

Regional – CIDG steps up hunt for key figure in Bataan gun smuggling – Senior Superintendent Marvin Bolabola, chief of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group in Region 3, said Wednesday that they have further pressed their massive

Regional – Giant Lantern Festival set in Pampanga – Farmers in various places in the province are joining the annual “Giant Lantern Festival 2009” scheduled on December 19 at the Pampanga Robinson’s Mall in the city.

Regional – MCIAA expansion to commence soon – The Mactan Cebu International Airport Authority has shortlisted and sent to Manila for post qualification the list of contractors who have placed their bid for the

Regional – More establishments join VECO’s ILP

Regional – Muslim world observes Islamic New Year – The new leadership of the ARMM Wednesday took time to join President Arroyo in greeting the Muslim world on the occasion of the Islamic New Year’s fete, which falls on

Regional – Northern Negros bets sign peace accord – The spate of killing incidents reportedly related to tense political rivalries between two officials in Escalante City has prompted the Diocese of the neighboring San

Regional – Piñol endorses Tamano – North Cotabato Vice Gov. Manny Piñol is leading his influential political clan in endorsing the senatorial bid of lawyer Adel Tamano in a snowballing campaign to restore

Manila Standard

Metro – Ampatuan case judge wants out – THE Quezon City court will re-raffle today the 25 counts of murder case against Datu Unsay Mayor Andal Ampatuan Jr. after the first judge assigned to the case asked for

Metro – Car blast kills man in Serendra Mall – A 60-year-old man was burned to death inside his car which exploded past noon time yesterday near Serendra Mall in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City. Mayor Freddie Tinga, who

Metro – Coca Cola executive’s killers sentenced to 30 years – A QUEZON City court yesterday convicted 19 people accused of the 2003 kidnapping and killing of Filipino-Chinese Coca Cola executive Betti Sy Chua and sentenced them to

Metro – Lim, Razon in ‘Battle in Manila’ tonight – Though both of them are considered “officers and gentlemen” due to their background and training as police generals, there is bound to be fireworks and brinkmanship when

Nation – 9 rebels killed in clashes in Bukidnon – AT LEAST nine communist rebels and one Army soldier were killed in clashes Tuesday as troops closed in on a guerrilla encampment in Bukidnon, a regional military

Nation – Arroyo: Martial law averted civil war in Maguindanao – PRESIDENT Gloria Arroyo on Tuesday said a full-scale civil war might have erupted and violence could have spilled over to the entire Mindanao island if martial law had

Nation – Comelec recognizes only 8 presidential candidates – THE Commission on Elections has reduced the number of presidential candidates next year to only eight from 99. Those who were deemed qualified to run were deposed

Nation – Court orders poll body to extend voter registration – THE Supreme Court has ordered the Commission on Elections to extend voter registration to Jan. 9, 2010. Comelec Chairman Jose Melo said the poll body would comply with

Nation – Remittances up 6.7% to $1.5b in October – MONEY sent home by migrant workers climbed in October as the global economic recovery supported demand for Filipino nurses, sailors and housekeepers overseas.

Nation – San Miguel wins San Roque plant – SAN Miguel Corp.’s corporate vehicle Strategic Power Development Corp. on Tuesday won the right to buy and sell electricity produced by the government’s San Roque

Nation – Surrender escaped leader, MILF told – MALACAÑANG on Tuesday asked the separatist Moro Islamic Liberation Front to surrender its second-ranking commander in Basilan, who was among those who escaped from that

Nation – Unemployment worsened despite increase in jobs – THE country’s latest employment statistics again presented a mixed-picture and a policy paradox: While the economy generated more jobs in October, the unemployment rate

Opinion – ?This is it!? – No, the title of this column does not refer to that Michael Jackson movie which was shown recently. It is the title of a presentation on HIV/AIDS made by the National

Opinion – A snapshot of public opinion – A public opinion survey, we should always remember, is a snapshot of public opinion during a specific period. Like a photograph taken of a visit to a place or of smiling

Opinion – Gibo’s running mate – Lakas-Kampi’s search for a running mate for its standard-bearer, former Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro, was like a wild goose chase. It took some time before the

Opinion – Losing focus – Exactly when did a mass murder and the pursuit of the people who perpetrated it morph into a constitutional issue regarding martial law? Why is a supposed rebellion (or

Opinion – Sharing the blame and the burden – Later this week, almost 100 heads of state will arrive in Copenhagen, Denmark to say lofty things about the need to arrive at a new global pact to curb the effects of

Opinion – The possibility of failure – The reported delay in the production of automated machines for the 2010 polls and the inability of the Commission on Elections to train some 120,000 teachers and

Manila Times – Business

‘Wonder from Down Under’ a fluke? – SYDNEY: Australian hopes of a quick rebound from the global downturn were dented on Wednesday when official figures showed the economy had not grown as much as expected

12 firms keen on Jusmag property – BCDA – BY BEN ARNOLD O. DE VERA REPORTER State-owned Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) on Wednesday said 12 developers are interested in forging a joint venture

Budget deficit ‘woes’ brushed aside – BY LAILANY P. GOMEZ REPORTER The Development Bank of Singapore (DBS) said it expects no major upward pressure on yields from debt auctions next year despite the

China MinMetals denies venture with Benguet – China MinMetals Corp. denied it signed any memorandum of agreement with Benguet Corp. for a joint venture.

Perks spin off mergers among rural banks – BY Maricel E. Burgonio SENIOR REPORTER The Rural Bankers Association of the Philippines (RBAP) will push for amendments to the law to allow foreign ownership in the

Remittances may cause inflation – BY DARWIN G. AMOJELAR SENIOR REPORTER REMITTANCES can generate inflationary pressures or cause a Dutch Disease, warned the Asian Development Bank (ADB).

RP, Oman sign air accord – The Philippines and Oman have agreed to increase the flights between the two countries to serve the rising number of overseas Filipino workers in the Middle East. Camilo

Smart insists on prefix codes – BY DARWIN G. AMOJELAR SENIOR REPORTER SMART Communications Inc. said it will implement per pulse charging on calls made to subscribers of other networks using a prefix

Taiwanese tourists seen to trickle in next year – BY BEN ARNOLD O. DE VERA REPORTER TAIPEI: The Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) said it expects Taiwanese tourist arrivals to slightly go up next year, as it

Manila Times – Nation

Business casualty losses from ‘Ondoy,’ ‘Pepeng’ P21 billion to date – BIR – BY LAILANY P. GOMEZ REPORTER The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) said a preliminary report submitted by corporations on their casualty losses due to the recent massive

Japanese man jailed for killing two Filipinas – TOKYO: A Japanese man who murdered and mutilated two Filipinas was jailed for life on Wednesday, evading the gallows after prosecutors had demanded the death penalty, a

Man from Canada not qualified to adopt his partner’s illegitimate son – BY PERSIDA ACOSTA Dear PAO, My partner and I have been together for more than four years and he has a son out of wedlock. We have no knowledge of the mother’s

Most Pinoys optimistic about 2010 – More than eight in 10 Filipinos are hopeful next year would be better, the results of the latest Pulse Asia revealed.

Manila Times – Opinion

An open letter to world leaders: Our expectations for Copenhagen – “In the beginning God created the heavens and the Earth . . . And God saw all that He had made, and it was very good.” —Genesis 1:1, 31

Climate fund pledges boost global warming – One of the crucial issues the UN Conference on Climate Change in Copenhagen must agree on is how much the rich countries will contribute to the climate-change fund for

It will be a tight race between Aquino and Villar – By TONY LOPEZ The May 10, 2010 presidential election is tighter than you think. Once invincible, Sen. Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino 3rd is no longer a cinch for president.

On the ‘Origin of the Species’ and Darwin’s bicentennial – BY GIOVANNI TAPANG, Ph.D. Last Monday, the College of Science and the School of Economics of the University of the Philippines held a cross-disciplinary symposium titled

Sex makes people stupid – UNIVERSAL UCLICK By MAGGIE GALLAGHER Girls, can we talk? I don’t really like piling on a man in the midst of a multi-million-dollar public and personal implosion, but

SOFA controversy leaves DPJ under fire in Japan – Analysis TOKYO: After three months in office, the Democratic Party of Japan (DPJ) is close to bringing to an end one of the most controversial episodes of its early days

Supporting Filipino farmers through fashion – OPEN NOTEBOOK BY RANDOM JOTTINGS The Department of Agriculture Secretary Arthur Yap going fashionista and taking to the catwalk? That was exactly what occurred when a

The Ople legend lives on – BY ALFREDO G. ROSARIO On Monday, December 14, the family of the late Labor secretary, Blas F. Ople, held a Mass in his honor at his gravesite at the Libingan ng mga

Manila Times – Regions

ARMM chief names Cabinet members – Acting Regional Gov. Ansaruddin Adiong has started executing his first official function as the newly installed chief executive of the Autonomous Region in Muslim

Bataan’s industrial park receives international quality certification – MARIVELES, Bataan: The Philippine National Oil Co.-Alternative Fuels Corp. (PNOC-AFC) reported on Tuesday that its industrial park in Limay-Mariveles area in Bataan has

Mayon crisis could last for months–experts – LEGAZPI City: Lava poured down the Philippines’ Mayon volcano Wednesday as experts warned it could erupt for months, meaning thousands of villagers will spend Christmas

Philippine Star – Headlines

86% of Pinoys to welcome 2010 with hope – poll – Eight out of 10 Filipinos or 86 percent said they will welcome the New Year with hope, the latest Pulse Asia Ulat ng Bayan national survey showed.

Ampatuans no-show in Davao court hearing – Former Maguindanao governor Andal Ampatuan Sr. and four other members of his family who were accused in the Nov. 23 massacre of 57 people in the province failed to

Bernanke is Time’s Man of the Year: Pacquiao in list of ‘people who mattered’ – US Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke has been named Time Magazine’ s “Person of the Year” for 2009.

Bicameral conference committee approves 2010 budget – The bicameral conference committee approved yesterday the proposed P1.54-trillion national budget for next year and may have it ratified tomorrow.

Garcia pleads not guilty to launder raps – Former Armed Forces comptroller Carlos Garcia has pleaded not guilty to money laundering charges before the Sandiganbayan.

Local executives want state of calamity in Albay – Albay officials requested the provincial board here yesterday to declare the province under a state of calamity as Mayon Volcano continues to emit lava within the

‘Mayor laughed as he gunned down pleading journalists’ – Journalists knelt, wept and pleaded for mercy, but Datu Unsay Mayor Andal Ampatuan Jr. gunned them down and even laughed, according to two witnesses now held by the

Noynoy enjoys good lead – LP – The Liberal Party (LP) said yesterday its standard-bearer Sen. Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III continues to enjoy a wide lead over his rivals as shown in a

Palace rules out state of emergency in Basilan – Malacañang has ruled out declaring a state of emergency in Basilan despite military claims that the Moro Islamic Liberation Front was involved in the Basilan

Perlas, Gen. Lim appeal disqualification – Environmentalist Nicanor Perlas, an independent presidential candidate disqualified by the Commission on Elections (Comelec), assured his supporters yesterday that he

Quezon City judges volunteer to try Ampatuan cases – Judges of the Quezon City Regional Trial Court assured Chief Justice Reynato Puno yesterday that they were ready to handle the trial of Datu Unsay Mayor Andal Ampatuan

Philippine Star – Metro

1 dies in botched robbery in Tondo – Three still unidentified armed men held up a delivery van in Tondo, Manila Tuesday night resulting in the death of the driver and the serious wounding of his male

DOJ orders estafa case withdrawn vs Ayala-Alabang Village association – The Department of Justice has ordered the Muntinlupa City Prosecutor’s Office to withdraw the estafa case filed by former solicitor general Frank Chavez against

Ivler allegedly held by ‘very influential group’ – Road rage murder suspect Jason Ivler is now allegedly being held by a “very influential group” that even his family claims to the police that they are not

Station commanders warned of relief if found remiss in war vs crime – Metro police chief Director Roberto Rosales warned his 37 station commanders yesterday of relief once they are found remiss in their duties in the war against

Tourists on extended stay urged to get I-card – Foreign tourists who are on extended stay in the country, or are studying, or working for a brief period in the Philippines are now obliged to secure their alien

Philippine Star – Nation

3 Cavite men shot dead in birthday celebration – A birthday celebration turned bloody when three hooded men shot dead the celebrator, his brother and visitor and seriously wounded another visitor in Cavite last Tuesday

Baguio executives nix renaming Session Road after Cory – City officials have rejected a proposal to rename Session Road, Baguio’s main business thoroughfare, after former President Corazon Aquino who died last August.

JDV’s wife running for Congress under NPC – The wife of former Speaker Jose de Venecia has joined the Nationalist People’s Coalition (NPC) and will run as congresswoman in the fourth district of Pangasinan.

‘Padaca can surely get a TRO’ – Election lawyer Romulo Macalintal said there is no way that Isabela Gov. Grace Padaca can be unseated as she can be sure of getting a temporary restraining order (TRO)

This bet files COCs for mayor of 2 towns – This one’s for the books.

Philippine Star – Opinion

– For Quezon City Judge Luisito Cortez, one controversial case is enough. The judge of the QC Regional Trial Court’s Branch 84 is handling the murder case filed

Consistent dissimilarity – As a rule the Supreme Court leaves to the lower courts or other tribunals or agencies the determination of questions of facts.

False prosperity seen next year during polls – Imagine a number of gasoline pumps running dry at a time when people are scurrying to meet Christmas with hope and cheer.

Gilbert Teodoro must account for Maguindanao and other issues – Perhaps conditioned by the experience of the Ferdinand E. Marcos national nightmare from 1965 to 1986, your Chair Wrecker has become very wary every time a candidate for

The Ateneo at 150 – The Ateneo de Manila’s most famous alumni is obviously Jose Rizal. Sadly, though, the current location of the Ateneo is not where Rizal studied.

Unjudged – Those constantly aggravated human rights lawyers might do something truly heroic for a change: they could try sitting on the bench and hear cases against very dangerous

Dec. 14, 7pm—Dec. 15, 7pm

ABS-CBN – Business

5 firms join Philippines tender for 600,000 tons rice – MANILA, Philippines – Five firms submitted offers at a Philippine import tender for 600,000 tons of rice on Tuesday, the last in a series of tenders of the same volume

ADB sees higher Asia growth; urges caution on exit strategy – MANILA, Philippines – The Asian Development Bank hiked growth forecasts for developing economies in Asia on Tuesday, just three months after its previous forecast, but

ADB trims Philippine growth forecast to 1% – MANILA, Philippines – For the second time since March, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) downscaled its growth forecast for the Philippines this year, citing the impact

Benguet to resume trading on Thursday – MANILA, Philippines – Shares of mining firm Benguet Corp. will resume trading on Thursday, December 17, after a one-month suspension for violating the disclosure rules

BIR, Customs expect to miss 2009 collection targets – MANILA, Philippines – The effects of the economic crisis and damages caused by recent typhoons have made the Philippines’ 2 main revenue agencies lose hope in meeting

Boeing 787 Dreamliner ready for maiden flight – EVERETT, Washington, United States — Fighting its way through more than two years of delays, Boeing’s latest aircraft, the 787 Dreamliner, is scheduled to take its

Century Properties to build its first middle-income project – MANILA, Philippines – Century Properties, one of the country’s oldest real estate firms, is constructing a 9-building residential project in Parañaque City, its first

Deficit may hit P375-B in 2010, says former finance chief – MANILA, Philippines – The country’s budget deficit may hit as much as P375 billion next year, much higher than the P233.4 billion ceiling set by the government, a former

Dollar rally fades as Dubai deal eases jitters – NEW YORK – The dollar traded lower Monday as worries eased over Dubai’s debt problems, encouraging investors to take on more risk and move away from the safe-haven US

Govt plans 2D seismic survey near Spratlys – MANILA, Philippines – The government is in the process of selecting international contractors to conduct a 2-dimensional seismic survey of the Reed Bank, including a

Oil prices up in Asian trade as regional demand picks up – SINGAPORE – Oil prices rose in Asian trade Tuesday as traders were heartened by renewed demand for energy in the region, dealers said.

Remittances hit monthly record high in Oct – MANILA, Philippines – Money sent home by Filipinos abroad grew 6.7% to $1.5 billion in October, the highest monthly remittance level recorded so far, the Bangko Sentral

RP jobless rate slips to 7.1% in Oct – MANILA, Philippines – A total of 2.72 million Filipinos were unemployed last October as the country’s jobless rate slipped to 7.1% for that month, the National

San Miguel acquires majority of Australian packaging firm – MANILA, Philippines – Diversifying conglomerate San Miguel Corp. (SMC) has acquired majority of Australian packaging firm Cospak Group, which it hopes to use as “vehicle

Wall St snaps 4-day winning streak on GE and PPI – NEW YORK – Stocks fell on Tuesday, with the Dow and S&P; 500 moving off 14-month highs, as a climb in producer prices raised inflation concerns and economic bellwether

ABS-CBN – Metro Manila

19 get life for Coca-Cola exec’s murder

Blast rips through posh Taguig shopping district – Niyanig ng isang malakas na pagsabog ang pangmayamang sentro ng komersyo sa Fort Bonifacio Global City sa Taguig kaninang tanghali! Sa gitna ng pagka-busy ng mga tao sa

Demolition leads to arrest of 2 PPSC officials – MANILA, Philippines – Two public safety school officials were arrested following the demolition of their school building, Tuesday morning in Taguig City.

QC judge refuses to handle Ampatuan massacre case – Ini-raffle na ng Quezon City RTC kaninang umaga ang kaso ni Datu Unsay mayor Andal Ampatuan Jr., ang pangunahing suspek sa Maguindanao massacre. Pero tinanggihan ng

ABS-CBN – Nation

8 presidential bets left in May 2010 polls – MANILA, Philippines – Only 8 of 99 presidential candidates are left in the May 20, 2010 elections after the Commission on Elections (Comelec) removed “nuisance” bets

Arroyo defends martial law declaration – MANILA, Philippines – President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo on Tuesday defended her declaration of martial law in Maguindanao, insisting that the only intention was to

Arroyo lashes at critics of martial law in Maguindanao – May isang linggo ring nanahimik ang Pangulo kaugnay ng pagdedeklara ng martial law sa Maguindanao. Pero kanina, binuweltahan na niya ang mga kritiko na bumatikos sa

Blast kills 1 at the Fort – MANILA, Philippines – One person was killed after his car exploded at the driveway of Fully Booked, Serendra 2 at the Bonifacio High Street in Taguig City Tuesday noon.

Comelec approves 16 presidential, VP bets – MANILA, Philippines – The Commission on Elections released Tuesday a partial list of candidates whose candidacies for the 2010 elections have been approved.

Comelec releases list of candidates; Perlas out – Inilabas na ng Comelec ang opisyal na listahan ng mga kandidato sa national elections sa 2010! Matapos ang isang linggong deliberasyon, tanggal sa listahan ang mahigit

Group: Cancel Smartmatic-TIM contract – Kanselahin na ang kontrata sa poll automation! Ito ang panawagan ng Concerned Citizens Movement sa harap ng pag-amin ng Smartmatic-TIM na hindi maipapadala ang

Lawmakers want bigger pork barrel in 2010 – MANILA, Philippines – Lawmakers want to increase their pork barrel in the 2010 budget, according to House appropriations committee chairman Quirino Rep. Junie Cua.

Military officers snub Senate probe on private armies – MANILA, Philippines – Security officials, invoking their right to executive privilege, were a no-show in the Senate probe on private armies.

QC judge handling Ampatuan murder case named – MANILA, Philippines – The multiple murder case filed against Datu Unsay, Maguindanao Mayor Andal Ampatuan Jr. will be handled by Judge Luisito Cortez of the Quezon City

Quezon City judge won’t take massacre case – MANILA, Philippines – For fear of his and his family’s safety, a Quezon City Regional Trial Court (QCRTC) judge on Tuesday refused to take the multiple murder case filed

Rescind poll automation contract due to delays: CCM – MANILA, Philippines – The Concerned Citizen’s Movement (CCM), a group that filed a case before the Supreme Court in July to declare null and void the contract between

‘Simbang Gabi’ starts – Simula na kasi ng Sibang Gabi! Maririnig na natin ulit ang tunog ng mga kampana sa madaling araw! At para sa mga hirap gumising sa madaling araw — may mas maagang misa

Supreme Court extends voters’ registration – MANILA – The Supreme Court (SC) on Tuesday extended registration of voters for the May 10, 2010 elections to the second week of January 2010, sources told

SWS: Noynoy, Villar top choices to succeed Arroyo – MANILA, Philippines – Liberal Party (LP) standard-bearer Sen. Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III and Nacionalista Party (NP) candidate Sen. Manuel Villar topped the latest

ABS-CBN – Regions

5 NPA rebels, soldier die in clash – MANILA, Philippines – Six people, including a soldier and 5 suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebels, were killed in an encounter in Valencia City, Bukidnon province,

6 killed in Bukidnon clash – VALENCIA CITY, Bukidnon – Six rebels and a soldier were killed in an encounter between elements of 4th Infantry Division and members the New People’s Army in Valencia

Albay mulls declaring state of calamity – MANILA, Philippines – Local government officials in Albay will meet Tuesday afternoon to discuss the possibility of placing the entire province under a state of calamity

Albay readies noche buena for 10,000 Mayon families – MANILA, Philippines – Albay Gov. Joey Salceda said Wednesday said he has ordered the preparation of 10,000 noche buena and media noche packs as he expects more than

Bishop withdraws appeal for martial law in Basilan – MANILA, Philippines – Basilan Catholic Bishop Martin Jumoad on Tuesday withdrew his appeal for the declaration of martial law in the province.

Former kidnap victims worry over Basilan jailbreak – MANILA, Philippines – Former kidnap victims have expressed their worry after learning of the massive jailbreak in Basilan provincial jail last Sunday dawn.

Imminent Mayon eruption prompts evacuation – Wala pa ring tigil ang pagdaloy ng lava mula sa Bulkang Mayon. At ayon sa Phivolcs nakaamba ang isang malaking pagsabog sa mga susunod na araw. Mula Legazpi City,

Lemery, Batangas mayor faces graft charges – BATANGAS CITY – The Office of the Ombudsman filed graft charges before the Sandiganbayan against a Municipal Mayor of Batangas for procuring P8.18-million worth of

Maguindanao capitol looted – Sa kabila ng pagsasara ng kapitolyo ng Maguindanao ng dalawang linggo, natuklasang nilooban pa pala ito. Nangyari ang nakawan bago pa man makapanumpa ang

Mayon eruption imminent – Patuloy pa ring nag-aalburoto ang Bulkang Mayon sa Albay at nagbabanta ang mas malakas na pagsabog nito sa mga susunod na araw. Nasa linya ng telepono, mula sa Legazpi

Police file kidnapping charges vs Ondo Perez – MANILA, Philippines – Police on Tuesday filed kidnapping charges against a former militiaman and 13 other men for taking hostage 125 people in Prosperidad, Agusan del

Tipsters get reward for ‘neutralization’ of 2 Basilan inmates – MANILA, Philippines – The government’s anti-terrorism council on Tuesday awarded a total of P600,000 reward money to 2 tipsters who helped authorities recapture two

Vice-gov insists MILF involved in Basilan jailbreak – MANILA, Philippines – A local official in Basilan province on Tuesday insisted that the inmates who bolted the provincial jail over the weekend were aided by Moro

GMA News.tv Breaking

“Historic” joint session closes, fails to vote on martial law – The historic joint session of the Congress ended with a whimper on Monday evening, with lawmakers deciding not to exercise their presumed right to vote on the resolution

(Updated 4 p.m.) ADB cuts RP growth forecast to 1% this year – The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has cut its growth forecast for the Philippines as a result of damages caused by typhoons in the latter part of the year, even as it

12,000 residents moved from Mayon danger zone – Nearly 12,000 people or 3,000 families living at the foot of the restive Mayon Volcano in Albay province have already been evacuated after state volcanologists raised

2010 will be the year of phones that are really handheld computers – As 2010 draws nearer, techies can expect a key year for communication technology with Apple set to launch a new iPhone, Microsoft to launch its Microsoft Mobile 7, and

ADB cuts RP growth forecast to 1% this year – The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has cut its growth forecast for the Philippines as a result of damages caused by typhoons in the latter part of the year, even as it

Alert level at Mayon raised to 3 – Phivolcs – After five successive minor ash explosions and 43 volcanic earthquakes recorded in the past 24 hours, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs)

Alert up as Mayon Volcano oozes lava – Authorities moved thousands of villagers from harm’s way near the Philippines’ most active volcano Tuesday after it oozed lava and shot plumes of ash, and said they

Arroyo defends martial law, refuses to apologize for it – In her first ever public speech after the declaration of martial law over Maguindanao, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo defended the move, saying she did not have to

Arroyo inaugurates P251M airport runway in Sulu – ZAMBOANGA CITY – President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo on Monday inaugurated the airport runway in the southern Philippine province of Sulu.

Barack Obama statue attacked by Facebook critics – JAKARTA, Indonesia – A statue of President Barack Obama as a boy erected in a Jakarta park has been targeted in a Facebook campaign by thousands who say it should be

Buenavista, Banayag sweep SEAG marathon – Eduardo Buenavista and Jho-An Banayag gave the Philippines a clean sweep of the marathon competitions of the 25th Southeast Asian Games Tuesday at the National Sports

Chinese cop who drank too much deemed a martyr – BEIJING – A Chinese policeman who died after drinking too much at a banquet he was made to attend has been deemed a martyr who died in the line of duty, in an apparent

Clashes in Bukidnon claim 9 NPA rebels, 1 soldier – At least nine communist rebels and one army soldier were killed in clashes Tuesday as troops closed in on a guerrilla encampment in a southern Philippine province, a

Clashes in Bukidnon claim 9 NPA rebs, 2 soldiers – (Updated 10:02 p.m.) – Nine communist rebels and two government soldiers were killed in clashes Tuesday as troops closed in on a guerrilla encampment in the southern

Clashes in Bukindnon claim 9 NPA rebels, 1 soldier – At least nine communist rebels and one army soldier were killed in clashes Tuesday as troops closed in on a guerrilla encampment in a southern Philippine province, a

Developing countries boycott UN climate talks – COPENHAGEN – China, India and other developing nations boycotted U.N. climate talks Monday, bringing negotiations to a halt with their demand that rich countries discuss

Developing countries end boycott at climate talks – Poor countries ended a boycott of U.N. climate talks Monday after getting assurances that rich nations were not conspiring to soften their commitments to cutting

DND’s Gonzales wants ARMM elections held in May 2010 – Defense Secretary Norberto Gonzales proposed on Monday to hold the election for the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao ARMM) in advance, synchronizing it with the

Fees cut number of Pinoy domestic help in Taiwan – Indonesian and Vietnamese domestic helpers in Taiwan have given their Filipino counterparts a run for their money. Fees charged by brokers of Filipino domestic helpers

Filipinos appeal to reverse climate change in Copenhagen – Rare is the global conference where one can say without hyperbole that the fate of the earth hangs in the balance. But that can be said about the United Nations Climate

Mayon may erupt soon; alert level 3 raised – After five successive minor ash explosions and 43 volcanic earthquakes recorded in the past 24 hours, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs)

MILF summons commander in Basilan jailbreak – The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) on Monday ordered one of its commanders who escaped from a Basilan jail facility last Wednesday to get in touch with its central

NPC formalizes support for Legarda but not for Villar – The Nationalist People’s Coalition will not carry any presidential bet in the 2010 polls, not even Senator Manuel Villar Jr., even as it formalized its support for

NY Film Critics name `The Hurt Locker’ best film – The Iraq war drama “The Hurt Locker” added to its award-season momentum, winning best film from the New York Film Critics Circle.

OCD begins evacuation of 9,900 families around Mayon – The evacuation of about 9,900 families around Mayon Volcano in Albay province began Tuesday after state volcanologists raised alert level 3 in the area Monday evening.

OFW remittances hit all-time monthly record in October – Money sent home by Filipinos working abroad rose to a monthly record of $1.5 billion in October, buoyed by the seasonal pick-up in remittances that paid for

Oil creeps toward $70 in Asia after 9-day drop – SINGAPORE – Oil prices crept toward $70 a barrel Tuesday in Asia after dropping the last nine days on investor doubts about a recovery in US crude demand.

Pinay golfers sweep SEA Games mints – Vientiane, Laos – The Philippines reigned supreme in women”s golf as the Filipinas dethroned Thailand from the team championship and Chihiro Ikeda captured the

Report: UN-backed Congo troops killing civilians – JOHANNESBURG – A U.N.-backed Congolese military operation to oust rebels from eastern Congo has caused more civilian casualties than damage to rebels, with more than

RP boosts SEAG quest with six-gold harvest – The Philippines” collared six gold medals – its most productive daily output in terms of mints – on Monday in the 25th Southeast Asian Games in Vientiane, Laos, thanks

San Miguel buys Aussie packaging firm – San Miguel Corp. has bought a major stake in an Australian packaging firm, which it will use as a vehicle for its rapidly growing export business, the company said on

Security officials snub Senate hearing on Maguindanao massacre – Philippine security officials were no-shows during Tuesday’s Senate hearing on the November 23 massacre in Ampatuan town in Maguindanao province, invoking a Supreme

Tag Heuer to assess relationship with Tiger Woods – Swiss watch maker Tag Heuer said it will spend the next few weeks assessing its relationship with golfer Tiger Woods.

Tiger Woods speaks of family values in interview – WELLINGTON, New Zealand – Tiger Woods spoke of his commitment to his family during an interview screened in New Zealand on Tuesday, but conducted in the days before his

Trend for 2010: small, efficient, smart and brightly-colored cars – Cost-cutting efficiency subdues the mood at this year’s Los Angeles Auto Show, where the trend for 2010 is for brightly-colored cars that are small, fuel efficient,

UN chief urges stop to finger-pointing at climate talks – COPENHAGEN – UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon says rich and poor countries must “stop pointing fingers” and raise their climate targets to salvage faltering talks on a

UN likely to extend Bhutto investigation – UNITED NATIONS- Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said Monday he is “positively considering” a request to extend a UN investigation into the assassination of former

US report: Islamic terror rising as al-Qaeda fades – WASHINGTON – Targeted by drone strikes in Pakistan, al-Qaeda is losing ground and financing even as attacks by Islamist groups are on the rise, according to a report

US study shows pot more popular among teenagers – Smoking marijuana is becoming even more popular among US teens and they have cut down on smoking cigarettes, binge drinking and using methamphetamine, according to a

GMA News.tv Business

34.5-hectare lot in Fort Bonifacio attracts 12 bidders – Twelve firms have officially expressed interest in bidding for the development of a 34.5-hectare military-owned property south of Fort Bonifacio in Taguig, the Bases

BIR admits missing November goal – The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), which accounts for around three-fourths of tax revenues, admitted that it had missed its November target by more than P5 billion,

Clark seeks bids for casino resort Mimosa Leisure Estate – The state agency in charge of the Clark free port in Pampanga is seeking counterproposals to a Korean consortium”s bid to manage the Mimosa Leisure Estate, a casino

DBCC adopts “worst case” deficit scenario for “09 – A “worse case” scenario involving a 2009 budget shortfall of P300 billion will likely be realized given the deferment of state asset sales.

DBCC adopts “worst case” deficit scenario for 2009 – A “worse case” scenario involving a 2009 budget shortfall of P300 billion will likely be realized given the deferment of state asset sales.

Gov”t advances auction of Mt. Diwalwal contract – State-run Philippine Mining Development Corp. (PMDC) will fast-track the bidding for the 25-year operation contract of the third portion of the Mount Diwalwal “gold

Jobless Filipinos swell amid anemic economic growth – Filipinos without jobs ballooned by more than 190,000 in October from a year earlier, following disappointing economic growth, the National Statistics Office (NSO)

Jobless Filipinos swell amid lethargic growth – Filipinos without jobs ballooned by more than 190,000 in October from a year earlier, following disappointing economic growth, the National Statistics Office (NSO)

Lowest bidders for Iloilo water project named – ILOILO CITY – Bulk water supply contracts will awarded this week to three firms that joined the bidding conducted by Metro Iloilo Water District (MIWD) last week.

More OFW families are saving for rainy day – More families of Filipinos working abroad are saving a portion of the money sent home by their relatives, ensuring they have funds for the rainy day, while flushing the

Nido Petroleum to spend $20M on Tindalo oilfield – A joint venture will pour $20 million to extract oil from the Tindalo field off Palawan, whose output is expected to be bigger than that of the Galoc oil field.

NTC orders mobile networks to drop per-minute billing – A dispute over how to bill mobile phone calls heightened further on Monday, with regulators ordering telecommunication companies to stop charging by the minute.

Philippine stocks flat, ignore both good and bad news – Philippine share prices barely moved on Tuesday, shrugging off both good and bad news – Wall Street’s overnight climb to a new high and increasing joblessness among

PNCC gets TRO vs Malaysians over SLEx – The Philippine National Construction Corp. (PNCC) has obtained a temporary restraining order (TRO) against the immediate transfer of control over the South Luzon

Taiwanese investments in RP may double to $226M next year – TAIPEI – Taiwanese investments in the Philippines are expected to double to $226 million next year, the Manila Economic and Cultural Office (MECO) said.

Typhoons dampen Filipinos’ inclination to spend – More Filipinos are likely to cut back on spending next year, bucking a regional trend of continued consumption in line with an expected economic recovery, a MasterCard

US stocks rise to 2009 highs after Dubai, Exxon deals – Easing concerns about debt problems overseas and a $29 billion takeover deal by Exxon Mobil Corp. nudged major stock indexes to new highs for the year.

GMA News.tv Nation

4 oil firms to roll back pump prices – Four oil companies, including the three largest oil firms in the country, will roll back their pump prices just past midnight Tuesday.

All in NP slate but Ocampo, Maza won’t back Marcos – They all belong to the Nacionalista Party (NP) senatorial slate, but militant lawmakers Satur Ocampo and Liza Maza will not be supporting Ilocos Norte Rep. Ferdinand

Andal Jr mowed down victims with K3 gun, witness tells CIDG – Police investigators are now searching for a Korean-made K3 light machine gun which a key witness says was used by Datu Andal Ampatuan Jr. in executing victims en masse

Arroyo defends martial law, sees no need for apologies – In her first ever public speech after the declaration of martial law over Maguindanao, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo defended the move, saying she did not have to

Arroyo sets yet another visit to Pampanga – President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo has set yet another visit to her home town of Lubao in Pampanga province Tuesday, this time to take part in a Christmas party and to

Arroyo to explain martial law decision before Copenhagen trip – President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo will finally break her silence and explain last week”s controversial imposition of martial law in Maguindanao province, a Palace

Blast rocks The Fort in Taguig; 1 killed – police – An explosion rocked The Fort Bonifacio Global City in Taguig City Tuesday afternoon killing at least one who was inside a car near a bookstore at the mall.

Blast rocks The Fort in Taguig; 1 killed – report – An explosion rocked The Fort Bonifacio Global City in Taguig City Tuesday afternoon killing at least who was inside a car near a bookstore at the mall.

Car explodes in Taguig City”s The Fort; 1 killed – A car exploded at a mall inside The Fort Global City in Taguig City Tuesday afternoon killing the vehicle”s driver.

Comelec OKs candidacies of 8 presidential, 8 VP, and 58 senatorial bets – The Commission on Elections has approved the candidacies of eight people running for president, another eight eyeing the vice presidential post and 58 other individuals

Court convicts 19 in 2003 kidnap-slay of Coke exec – A Quezon City court on Tuesday sentenced 19 people to life imprisonment after being found guilty of kidnapping and killing a Filipino-Chinese Coca-Cola executive in

Court convicts 19 people in 2003 kidnap-slay of Coke exec – A Quezon City court on Tuesday sentenced 19 people to life imprisonment after being found guilty of kidnapping and killing a Filipino-Chinese Coca-Cola executive in

DFA answers protests vs nomination of 2 non-career envoys – The Department of Foreign Affairs defended on Monday the nomination by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo of two non-career ambassadors, Cebu Rep. Antonio Cuenco and

DND chief to public: Dissociate martial law from Marcos abuses – The public should learn to dissociate the concept of martial law from the human rights abuses that characterized the one declared by the late President Ferdinand Marcos

DOLE reminds employers of pay rules for holidays – With just 10 days to go before Christmas, the Department of Labor and Employment reminded employers Tuesday to abide by the pay rules for the holidays.

Gina de Venecia joins NPC, seeks House seat – Gina de Venecia, wife former Speaker Jose de Venecia, is now a certified member of the opposition.

Joint session adjourns, fails to vote on PP 1959 – The historic joint session of the Congress ended with a whimper on Monday evening, with lawmakers failing to vote on the resolution to revoke the martial law declaration

Lawmakers continue opposition to martial law despite its revocation – Despite the lifting of martial law in Maguindanao, lawmakers have continued to express their disapproval of the decision to place the province under military rule.

LP: Next SWS, Pulse Asia polls to set tone for 2010 campaign – The Liberal Party (LP) is waiting for the December surveys of Social Weather Stations and Pulse Asia, saying their results would set the tone for next year”s campaign.

Martial law critics: Gov”t at fault if massacre evidence gets voided – Critics say there is a “big possibility” that the evidence gathered during the week-long declaration of martial law in Maguindanao may be invalidated should the

P2M reward up for Basilan jail escapees – The government is offering a P2-million reward for any information that could lead to the arrest of 21 of the 31 inmates who bolted out of a Basilan jail facility over

Padaca challenges Comelec ruling on 2007 victory – Ousted Isabela governor Grace Padaca on Monday filed a motion asking the Commission on Election (Comelec) to reconsideration its ruling proclaiming her political rival,

Palparan gets rude welcome during Bacolod ’sortie’ – Party-list Rep. Jovito Palparan Jr. received a rude welcome during his visit to Bacolod City after militants there staged a protest assailing him for the alleged human

Partial list of qualified 2010 bets out Tuesday – Comelec – The Commission on Elections (Comelec) will release Tuesday an initial list of candidates qualified to participate in the 2010 elections.

Ratification of 2010 budget seen by mid-January – Congress may not pass the proposed P1.5-trillion national budget for 2010 until middle of January next year due to time constraints, House Speaker Prospero Nongrales

Rebellion raps filed vs 600 in massacre case – More than 600 people, including five members of the powerful Ampatuan clan, had been slapped with rebellion complaints before the Department of Justice (DOJ) on Monday.

SC asked to reverse ruling on appointive officials – Senator Manuel “Mar” Roxas II on Monday asked the Supreme Court to reverse its earlier ruling allowing appointed officials seeking elective posts to retain their

SC extends voters’ registration to January 9, 2010 – report – The Supreme Court has extended the voters’ registration to January 9, 2010 after it declared as null and void a resolution by the Commission on Elections, which limited

Voters can still register until January 9, 2010 – high court – The Supreme Court has extended the voters’ registration to January 9, 2010 after it declared as null and void a resolution by the Commission on Elections, which limited

Waiting for Gloria and Barack in Copenhagen – Rare is the global conference where one can say without hyperbole that the fate of the earth hangs in the balance. But that can be said about the United Nations Climate

Warning out vs expired processed, dairy food – Authorities warned consumers Tuesday to be on the lookout for expired processed food products, including dairy products, proliferating in the market as Christmas draws

GMA News.tv Regional

OCD: 12K residents moved from Mayon danger zone – Nearly 12,000 people or 3,000 families living at the foot of the restive Mayon Volcano in Albay province have already been evacuated after state volcanologists raised

Inquirer (Metro)

Did you know? – FORT BONIFACIO, the “Global City,” is a 440-hectare former military reservation.

How to get concessions from the government – IF YOU WANT TO GET CON-cessions from the government, hold many people hostage in the jungle and negotiate with the authorities for their release.

Manhunt on for cop who killed colleague, left guard wounded – The Caloocan police are looking for a Quezon City policeman who allegedly gunned down a colleague and injured a security guard in Caloocan City on Sunday morning.

MetroBriefs – A MENTALLY ill woman died in an hour-long fire yesterday that engulfed 15 houses in Las Piñas City and damaged around P500,000 worth of property.

Scuffle between 2 officers probed – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) would implement “adjustments” in its detention center in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City following a scuffle between a Medal of

Inquirer (Nation)

‘Standing by your man’ no longer iron-clad rule – WASHINGTON—In the tawdry world of rich and powerful men who fall from grace, perhaps no image is more gripping than the long-suffering wife, standing by a philandering

Agusan del Sur gunmen to face kidnap charges – Even if their victims had signed a waiver, police said they would still file kidnapping charges against the tribal gunmen who held 75 people captive for three days here.

Hero got in death what he dreamed of in life – In death, Muelmar Magallanes gave to his family what he had dreamed of in life—a sturdy, concrete house to replace their wobbly, wooden shanty that was swept away during

High prices force RP to buy less rice abroad – An increase in the price of rice has forced the government to cut back on its planned purchase of the grain, deciding instead to buy 509,950 metric tons of the grain,

Military offers P2-M reward; escapee killed – Pursuing government forces Monday shot dead one of 31 escaped prisoners on nearby Basilan Island and recaptured another, as officials in Manila ordered an investigation

Murder raps vs Ampatuan Sr., 27 others – Authorities on Monday filed a complaint in the Department of Justice (DoJ) for multiple murder against former Maguindanao Gov. Andal Ampatuan Sr. and 27 others, saying

No beheading of Filipino couple in Saudi–DFA – A Middle East-based Filipino workers group Monday expressed relief that a rumored beheading on Dec. 11 of a Filipino couple accused of killing their Filipino maid in

Ocampo, Maza to run with Marcos under Villar’s NP – Talk about strange bedfellows. Ilocos Norte Rep. Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. is looking forward to having a “good working relationship” with militant party-list Rep.

Poll machines’ delivery, training delayed – What’s happening with the project to automate the May elections?

Some seized firearms of Ampatuans were gifts from politicians – Some of the high-powered firearms that the influential Ampatuan clan issued to its private armies were “gifts” from two politicians, acting Defense Secretary Norberto

Specter of failure haunts climate talks – COPENHAGEN—Time is running out for a global climate deal as crunch UN talks entered their final week on Monday with an apparent concession from top polluter China.

Inquirer (Regions)

Arroyo accused of campaigning early – President Macapagal-Arroyo was back in Pampanga on Tuesday, but her critics said her visits after she filed her candidacy as representative of the province’s second

Arroyo, Kenney get ‘smooth landing’ on new Sulu runway – “It’s our first time to have a smooth landing,” US Ambassador Kristie Kenney said immediately after arriving here Monday morning.

Atienza OKs land deal with resort in Boracay – ILOILO CITY— The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has entered into a 25-year land-lease agreement for the continued operation of a controversial

E. Visayas yields 4,000 guns in amnesty drive – The Philippine National Police (PNP) campaign on gun amnesty, which ended last month, yielded more than 4,000 firearms in Eastern Visayas.

Garcias of Cebu field ex-mayor – The Garcia family is trying to regain its political clout in the city with the emergence of former Mayor Alvin Garcia as a mayoral candidate.

Isabela mayor wants 2 namesakes declared nuisance bets – Mayor Amelita Navarro has asked the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to declare as nuisance candidates a mother and her daughter, whose names are similar to hers, who

Magsaysay gives way for Ebdane candidacy – After filing his candidacy for governor of Zambales on December 1, former Public Works Secretary Hermogenes Ebdane, Jr. has started changing the political landscape in

Mayon’s short blasts could increase alert level – Mayon exploded again at around 7:04 a.m. on Monday, sending grayish ash clouds that crept downslopes after Friday night’s minor ash explosion, which prompted scientists

Old tools for new climate problems – THE ANCIENT STONE WALLING TECHNIQUES of Cordillerans helped stabilize the rice terraces of Mt. Province for centuries.

RP role small in greenhouse gas emissions – Local leaders in the typhoon-hit province of Laguna were asked to lead their constituents in adapting to climate change.

Typhoon damage repair like boxing, says Teves – If it was a boxing match, the country’s efforts to bring back to their feet areas destroyed or damaged by recent storms needed the strength of Manny Pacquiao, according

US, Aussie projects still suspended – DESPITE THE LIFTING of martial law in Maguindanao, both US and Australian development projects in the so-called “Republic of Ampatuan” remain indefinitely suspended.

Manila Bulletin

Main News – Arroyo defends martial law – President Arroyo defended her action to declare martial law in Maguindanao, saying the move quelled rebellion and restored order and normalcy in the area.

Main News – Be wary in buying food, public told – Quezon City officials warned the public Tuesday to purchase labeled canned goods, processed meat and other food products at reputable supermarkets, groceries and wet

Main News – BI opens new office in Parañaque – The Bureau of Immigration continued to bring its services closer to foreigners and to the general public living and staying in the southern part of the metropolis with

Main News – CBCP to focus on martial law – The Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) might take the issue of martial law in their next Plenary Assembly if the Supreme Court finds its imposition

Main News – Comelec lists only 8 presidential bets – Only eight aspirants for president, eight for vice president, and 58 for senators made it to the Comelec’ initial list of candidates for the May 2010 elections.

Main News – Comelec takes up disqualifications Tuesday – The Comelec meets en banc Tuesday to tackle the certificates of candidacy filed by 277 aspirants for 14 top national positions at stake in the May 2010 polls.

Main News – Composting urged to ease waste woes – Pollution watchdog EcoWaste called Tuesday for intensive garbage composting in anticipation of an increase in the volume of household wastes during the Yuletide season.

Main News – Cop arrested from hospital by fellow cops – Operatives of the Caloocan City police took away Tuesday from his hospital bed a Quezon City policeman who was tagged as the primary suspect in the killing of a fellow

Main News – Crackdown on Ampatuans brings sigh of relief to residents, says police – The crackdown on the Ampatuan clan and the continuing disarming of their loyalists brought a sigh of relief to residents of Maguindanao, police and human rights

Main News – DSWD joins call to ignore street kids begging for alms – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) discouraged the public against giving alms to street children in the guise of caroling on the streets.

Main News – Exorbitant ticket prices encourage movie piracy, say solons – Two party-list lawmakers have expressed alarm over skyrocketing prices of movie tickets which they blame for Filipinos opting to patronize pirated copies of movies.

Main News – Farmers call for review of rice import policy – Government’s plan to import up to 2.4 million metric tons (MMT) of rice next year will encourage crop conversions rather than expand rice production, militant farmers

Main News – Four abducted in Maguindanao – A large band of gunmen abducted four people in Datu Abdulla Sangki, Maguindanao last Monday, the first case of kidnaping since security forces started disarming private

Main News – Gibo wants planning for anti-climate change infra – Administration presidential candidate Gilbert “Gibo” Teodoro Jr. has called on national government and local government units to agree on a common plan for a

Main News – GMA leaves for Denmark to attend climate meet – President Arroyo is set to fly this Wednesday to Copenhagen in Denmark to participate in a climate change conference.

Main News – Jail guard assisted in Basilan jailbreak – report – A jail guard from the Basilan provincial jail was said to have assisted a group of Muslim militants who stormed the facility early Sunday morning and freed 31 inmates.

Main News – LTFRB girds for exodus to provinces – With the expected exodus to the provinces, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) will again allow Metro Manila buses to ply provincial routes

Main News – Maguindanao dev’t projects to resume soon – Malacañang Tuesday expressed confidence that development projects in Maguindanao will resume before year-end.

Main News – Make IRA an election issue, local execs asked – Leaders of the country’s municipalities want candidates for congressional positions in 2010 to pledge the revision of the Local Government Code to provide an increase in

Main News – Man killed as car bursts into flames – An old man was killed after his driven sedan suddenly exploded and was gobbled up by fire Tuesday noon near an upscale mall in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City.

Main News – Metro Corner: Dictatorship succeeding dictatorship

Main News – MMDA bares holiday plans – The MMDA has readied contingency measures for the Christmas holiday, putting in place a rescue and road emergency group on 24-hour alert to respond to any type of road

Main News – More than 7,000 face bleak holidays over privatization – Around 7,000 workers and vendors at the North Harbor and 700 workers at the South Luzon Expressway face a bleak holiday, the Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU) said Tuesday.

Main News – Navotas bans solicitations for parties – Navotas City Mayor Toby Tiangco warned city hall employees against engaging in any form of solicitations in cash or in kind for their Christmas parties this holiday

Main News – No turning back for Bayani – Former MMDA Chairman Bayani Fernando expresses confidence he will make it as vice president, the reason he has no intention to withdraw his candidacy in the 2010

Main News – Oil companies cut diesel, gas prices – Consumers will get their first taste of a rollback in over two months as local oil companies announced Monday price cuts reaching up to P1 on their respective fuel

Main News – One dead in car blast in Taguig – A car exploded Tuesday in an upscale district of the Manila, killing one, police said.

Main News – Pag-IBIG Fund OFW membership up – Vice President Noli De Castro has disclosed that the Pag-IBIG Fund is set to increase its membership of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to one million in 2010.

Main News – PCG warns public vs transport of illegal firecrackers – The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Tuesday warned the public against transporting illegal or undocumented firecrackers on board passenger and cargo vessel this Yuletide

Main News – Razon to appear in ANC debate – Former PNP chief Sonny Razon will appear live at 8 p.m. Wednesday, December 16, 2009, on Square Off, the top-rated debated program of ANC, to tackle issues of governance

Main News – SC extends voter registration to January 9 – The Supreme Court nullified Resolution No. 8585 of the Comelec that fixed the deadline of voter registration last October 31.

Main News – Senators optimistic on MEDA bill’s passage – Senators are optimistic social and economic reforms in Mindanao will come to fruition with the Senate’s passage on third and final reading of the measure creating the

Main News – SSS bill ready to be signed – The bill that seeks to grant the Social Security System, a one-time authority to condone penalties on contributions unremitted by delinquent employers, is expected to be

Main News – Susano eyes zero graft in QC – Rep. Annie Rosa Susano has always opted for a more professional and mature of approach in the conduct of her campaign.

Main News – Thousands flee Mayon – President Arroyo has ordered the National Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC) to immediately attend and provide assistance to thousands of evacuees in Albay where Mayon

Main News – Time for action, not just tough talk — GMA – Inaction to contain rebellion in Maguindanao could have resulted in the breakdown of law and order and governance and a spillover of violence all over Mindanao,

Main News – Villar seeks more help for teachers – Citing the hazards faced by teachers during elections, Nationalista President Senator Manny Villar filed a Senate bill seeking to provide legal assistance, financial

Opinion – A case for war in support of peace – Analysis

Opinion – Birth Anniversary of Diego Silang – Historians describe Diego Silang as the “Liberator of Ilocos.”

Opinion – EU seeks to restart Mideast talks – Analysis

Opinion – National Day of Bahrain – December 16 is Bahrain’s National Day.

Opinion – National Day of Kazakhstan – Tomorrow, Dec. 16, is the National Day of Kazakhstan.

Opinion – Peripheral neuropathy – Life Extension

Opinion – President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo to attend United Nations Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen, Denmark on December 16-18, 2009 – President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo leaves Wednesday to attend the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen, Denmark.

Opinion – Quezon City’s Gawad Parangal – More to the Point

Opinion – Simbang Gabi – Word Alive

Opinion – Start of Simbang Gabi Masses – Editorial

Opinion – The first 100 days – Of Trees and Forests

Opinion – Winners walk on water – Below the Line

Opinion – Witnesses to Jesus – Reflections

Regional – 14th American Corner launched in USC – United States Ambassador Kristie A. Kenney was in Cebu city the other day to grace the launching of the 14th American Corner in the country, located in the central

Regional – Cebu Comelec to assess poll hotspots – Comelec in the Province of Cebu Tuesday said it will start assessing towns and cities for possible classifications of areas of concerns or election hotspots when the

Regional – DPWH completes 593 projects in WV – The Department of Public Works and Highways has completed the construction of 593 infrastructure projects in Western Visayas as of end of November this year.

Regional – Fast-tracking of access road ordered – President Arroyo on Monday inspected the progress of ground works of the P187.76- million access road that connects the Northern and Northeastern Mindanao regions.

Regional – GMA, Kenney inaugurate P232-million Jolo Airport – President Arroyo and outgoing US Ambassador Kristie A. Kenney formally inaugurated the newly completed P232-million upgraded Jolo Airport on Monday.

Regional – More flights to benefit Surigao – Economic boom continues to spur in this nickel city of Northeastern Mindanao as a leading domestic carrier is expected to increase its flights due to the continuing

Regional – Only 15 child trafficking cases solved in 5 years — prosecutor – A city prosecutor here disclosed that only 15 child trafficking cases were solved by the different courts nationwide since the enactment of Republic Act (RA) 9208 or the

Regional – P112-M marijuana destroyed – At least P112.2 million worth of marijuana plants were successfully destroyed by combined police and anti-narcotics agents during a week-long marijuana eradication

Regional – Processing of ECC streamlined

Regional – Puno urges Adiong to tap ‘right people for right jobs’ – DILG Secretary Ronaldo Puno has urged acting ARMM Gov. Ansaruddin Alonto Adiong to tap “right people for the right jobs” in the bureaucracy of the ARMM to ensure the

Regional – Theme park in SRP pushed – Cebu could have maximized its potential as a leisure destination in Asia if there were developments for more entertainment facilities such as theme parks built in the

Regional – Top NPA rebel in CL surrenders – A top New People’s Army (NPA) leader of the local communist movement in Central Luzon surrendered to Bulacan Governor Joselito Roxas Mendoza the other day.

Manila Standard

Metro – Aquino’s party picks uncle as lone candidate in Makati – FORMER Rep. Agapito “Butz” Aquino is joining the Liberal Party this week to back the presidential bid of his nephew Senator Benigno Aquino III and to seek allies to fill

Metro – Bargaining power sweeps Baclaran – Sellers and buyers will haggle over the best deals at the Christmas bazaar in a section along Redemptorist road, earlier cleared by the Metro Manila Development

Metro – Chavez loses estafa case against Ayala-Alabang – The Justice Department has junked a decision of the City Prosecutor of Muntinlupa recommending the prosecution of the officials of Ayala Alabang Village Association for

Metro – Council wants House to act on FPJ avenue – Majority Leader Ariel Inton said the Quezon City Council has expressed full support to a resolution calling on Congress to rename Del Monte Avenue to Fernando Poe Jr.

Nation – 2,000 troops go after 31 escapees – ABOUT 2,000 troops fanned out Monday in Basilan to hunt down 31 militants and other inmates who escaped from the provincial jail, as well as Muslim guerrillas whom the

Nation – Another Palawan field to produce oil next year – AUSTRALIAN firm Nido Petroleum expects to draw first oil from the Tindalo field in northwest Palawan by the second quarter next year at the rate of 7,000 to 15,000

Nation – Diesel, gas down by P1, P0.50 – SUPPLIERS reduced pump prices Monday following the softening of world crude prices, reducing diesel and kerosene prices by P1 a liter and gasoline by P0.50. Petron,

Nation – Joint session ends debate without martial law vote – A JOINT session of Congress on Monday continued to debate the government’s imposition of martial law in Maguindanao, even though the Palace had lifted military rule

Nation – NBI files murder charges vs. Ampatuans – THE National Bureau of Investigation has filed multiple murder charges against 28 people, including the patriarch of the Ampatuan clan in Maguindanao, for their alleged

Nation – Rice, commodity prices seen still rising in 2010 – FALLING production in commodities from rice to milk is bad news for just about everyone except investors. Rice may surge 63 percent to $1,038 a metric ton from $638 on

Nation – Santiago strikes back; Senate cuts Supreme Court budget – THE Senate on Monday voted 12 to 1 to approve a P1.54-trillion national budget for next year that was P400 million less than the amount submitted by Malacañang and later

Opinion – A chilling effect on press freedom – Critics of the President are still nursing a hangover from Presidential Proclamation 1959 that placed Maguindanao under martial law for eight days. In fact, some of them

Opinion – Missing out on history – The latest significant political event is the decision of leftist lawmakers Satur Ocampo and Liza Maza to go mainstream by joining an established party in their historic

Opinion – Residual noise – CONTRARY to what people in Malacañang had hoped for, criticism over its imposition of martial law in Maguindanao, where 57 people were slaughtered on Nov. 23, did not

Opinion – Thanks for the concern, but… – A couple of weeks ago, my batch in the UP College of Law sponsored the special screening of Biyaheng Lupa. The screening was at 8 p.m., I was scheduled to arrive from

Manila Times – Business

AP inks ‘green’ power supply deal with steel bar maker – Renewable energy firm Aboitiz Power Corp. (AP) has inked another green power supply contract, this time with an industrial customer.

Ayala-led telco ends contract with S&P – GLOBE Telecom said it would no longer renew the services of debt watcher Standard and Poor’s (S&P;), citing the telco’s plan to limit next year’s commercial borrowing to

Biggest deficit in 20 years seen for 2010 – BY MARICEL E. BURGONIO SENIOR REPORTER The former Finance secretary of the Ramos administration said the Philippines might incur the biggest budget deficit in 20 years

Century Properties ventures into affordable housing – AFTER venturing into the high-end market, Century Properties is playing catch-up in the affordable segment with a plan to develop nine residential projects in Parañaque

Christmas 2009 – BY MIKE WOOTTON Took the kids to watch the pre-Christmas fireworks at Alabang Town Center last night—there weren’t any! This is another indicator to me that Christmas

GMA to raise ad rates in the first quarter, position QTV against TV5 – GMA Network Inc. said it is reprogramming QTV 11 to pit it against TV5, now owned by the group led by Manuel Pangilinan.

Jobless rate rises, remittances ease – BY DARWIN G. AMOJELAR AND MARICEL E. BURGONIO SENIOR REPORTERS THE number of unemployed Filipinos rose in October, while remittances eased as the Philippines’ slow

Jobless rate rises, remittances ease amid global slowdown – BY DARWIN G. AMOJELAR AND MARICEL E. BURGONIO SENIOR REPORTERS THE number of unemployed Filipinos rose in October, while remittances eased as the Philippines’ slow

Liberty asks for promised capital investments – LIBERTY Telecom Holdings Inc. is now calling on the capital promised by its investors to fund its expansion. In a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange, Liberty

San Miguel acquires Aussie packaging firm – BY CHINO S. LEYCO REPORTER AFTER gobbling and throwing up Australian companies over the past few years, San Miguel Corp. (SMC) is at it again with its recent acquisition

Two companies win bid for power plant contracts – BY EUAN PAULO C. AÑONUEVO REPORTER TWO companies on Tuesday won the separate rights to administer the output of three power plants in an auction held by state-run Power

Manila Times – Nation

Exchange deal between Hacienda Luisita, Japanese company may be illegal — lawmaker – CONSTITUTIONAL and statutory violations appeared to have been committed by the Hacienda Luisita management when it entered into a memorandum of agreement with the

Honasan testifies today in defense of Magdaló group in rebellion case – Sen. Gregorio “Gringo” Honasan will testify at the hearing today of the rebellion charges against detained Sen. Antonio Trillanes 4th and the Magdaló group at the

Husband wants to adopt his wife’s illegitimate child – BY PERSIDA ACOSTA Dear PAO, I have a six-year-old illegitimate child. She is acknowledged by her biological father as his child but she is using my surname. My child and

Padaca supporters vow to fight Comelec decision – Supporters of Gov. Grace Padaca of Isabela said on Tuesday they will not allow “injustice and attack against democracy” to prosper if the Commission on Elections

SSS condonation bill awaits President’s OK – FRANK LLOYD TIONGSON AND JOMAR CANLAS REPORTERS A measure granting the Social Security System (SSS) a one-time authority to condone penalties on unremitted or delinquent

Manila Times – Opinion

After 22 years, the Hamas movement gains popularity – BY SAUD ABU RAMADAN XINHUA GAZA: Nobody has ever expected that the Islamic Resistance Movement, or Hamas, which was founded 22 years ago, would rise from being a radical

Freedom of Information Act – Information and knowledge, honesty, and transparency are vital for righteous democratic good governance. The people must know what their governors are doing, why and how

Give in to the macabre – BY MARLEN V. RONQUILLO The government’s premier tourism ad is aptly titled “Give in to the seduction.” It plays a succession of footage, from white sand beaches to

No Bah, Humbug – BY JOHNNA VILLAVIRAY-GIOLAGON The morning wind is crisp and chilly. Twinkling lights and shiny garlands adorn windows and plastic pine trees. Shops are offering slashed

Of Christmas wishes and New Year resolutions – BY ANNA MARIE PERIQUET Second of four-part series Our column today is the second installment on Christmas wishes and New Year resolutions from entrepreneur friends and

PGMA’S brave congressional rival – BY EFREN L. DANAO I don’t know if Adonis Simpao will merely get his proverbial 15 minutes of fame in challenging President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo as representative of

The Ateneo in Noynoy – BY DAN MARIANO Senator Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino 3rd was quickly swamped by admirers when he walked into the covered courts of the Ateneo de Manila High School Saturday

Manila Times – Regions

Army sergeant main suspect in shooting civilian dead – Camp Bado Dangwa, La Trinidad, Benguet: A technical sergeant of the Philippine Army voluntary surrendered to the Bontoc Police Station after a shootout along the road

Baguio City politicians ask Comelec for automated poll campaign – BAGUIO CITY: Former Mayor Ramon “Jun” Labo of Baguio City, also known as an international faith healer, has asked the officials of the Commission on Elections (Comelec)

Civilian rewarded for escapees’ capture – BY AL JACINTO REPORTER BASILAN Province: Philippine authorities rewarded Tuesday P350,000 to a civilian who helped security forces tracked down two of 31, mostly Abu

Lawmaker condemns kidnapping of Basilan educator – FORMER House Deputy Speaker for Mindanao Gerry Salapuddin on Monday denounced the kidnapping of a college professor in Basilan and called on all sectors of society in

Ombudsman charges Batangas mayor – THE Office of the Ombudsman filed graft charges before the Sandiganbayan against a municipal mayor of Batangas for procuring computers in 2004 in the amount of P8.18

Philippine Star – Headlines

Lava flows down the slopes of Mayon Volcano last night in Legazpi, Albay, where evacuation has started for families residing in danger zones. Inset shows Mayon in the background as a jeepney travels in Camalig town. – Disaster mitigation officials here have started evacuating close to 10,000 families residing within a radius of six to eight kilometers from the crater of Mayon Volcano

Cabinet snubs hearing on CVOs – Senators yesterday slammed members of the Cabinet for snubbing the congressional inquiry into the source of firearms supposedly seized from the Ampatuan family in

China seeks intensified framework on climate change – China maintains that the 15th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15) ongoing in Copenhagen, Denmark should further strengthen the full, effective and sustained

DOLE sets holiday pay – Workers could look forward not only to the Christmas bonus and 13th month pay, but hefty holiday pay as well.

GMA defends imposition of martial law in Maguindanao – President Arroyo yesterday defended her imposition of martial law in Maguindanao as she struck back at critics for “having no faith in our men and women in

GMA leaves for Copenhagen today – President Arroyo leaves for Copenhagen, Denmark today for a four-day working visit, highlighted by her attendance at the 15th Conference of Parties to the United Nations

MILF has history of springing detained comrades – A cross section of people in central Mindanao is convinced that the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) was involved in the escape of 31 inmates from the Basilan

No immediate Supreme Court ruling on petitions vs martial law – The Supreme Court (SC) has deferred ruling on consolidated petitions questioning President Arroyo’s declaration of martial law in Maguindanao and instead asked

Noynoy, Villar, Chiz top SWS poll – Senators Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III and Manny Villar are the top choices of Filipinos as the next president, the latest survey by the Social Weather

Number of jobless Pinoys increases to 7.1 percent – NSO – The National Statistics Office (NSO) reported yesterday that the number of jobless Filipinos increased to 7.1 percent in October from 6.8 percent last year.

Public urged to have ‘green’ Christmas, set up eco-gardens – An organization campaigning to achieve zero waste urged the public yesterday to compost and set up eco-gardens to prevent garbage from increasing during the holiday

‘RP media reports better on child trafficking issues’ – Filipino journalists practice better journalism ethics on reporting cases of child trafficking compared to their counterparts in Southeast Asia, according to a study by

RTC grants petition for writ of habeas corpus for Andal Sr., 4 others – A Regional Trial Court here has granted the petition for the issuance of a writ of habeas corpus for former Maguindanao Gov. Andal Ampatuan Sr. and four other members of

‘Simbang Gabi’ ushers in Pinoy Christmas – Today, the faithful will again begin a Christmas tradition as they start the nine-day Simbang Gabi or dawn Masses.

SMC unit submits highest bid to manage power plant – Strategic Power Development Corp. (SPDC), a unit of San Miguel Corp. (SMC), yesterday submitted the highest bid of $450 million to manage the 343-megawatt San Roque

State of emergency an option in Basilan – Defense Secretary Norberto Gonzales yesterday ruled out the imposition of martial law to address violence in Basilan, but said that a state of emergency is a viable

Supreme Court voids Oct. 31 deadline for voters’ registration – Voters can still register for next year’s elections until Jan. 9 after the Supreme Court voided the Oct. 31 deadline set by the Commission on Elections (Comelec).

The accused in the kidnapping and murder of Coca-Cola executive Betti Chua Sy listen to the verdict of regional trial court Judge Alexander Balut yesterday. BOY SANTOS – Seventeen men and two women convicted of kidnapping and killing Coca Cola executive Betti Chua Sy six years ago were meted the maximum penalty of life in prison without

US ambassador to end tour of duty next month – Outgoing US Ambassador Kristie Kenney will end her tour of duty and return to the United States in January after serving as Washington’s top diplomat in the

Philippine Star – Metro

A backhoe operator, guarded by policemen from the Southern Police District, digs up the main road leading to the Philippine Public Safety College during a demolition in Taguig City yesterday. MANNY MARCELO – Officials and employees of the Philippine Public Safety College are set to file a string of cases against the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) after

Funeral parlor personnel carry the burned body of Remigio Ang after his car exploded in front of the entrance to the Serendra 2 condominium’s basement parking area in Taguig City yesterday. MANNY MARCELO – A 60-year-old businessman died when the car he was driving suddenly exploded as he was about to park the vehicle at the basement parking area of a condominium building

2 Iranians beat up customer in Pasay casino – Police officers arrested two Iranian nationals after they attacked a customer at a casino in Pasay City early yesterday.

Atienza denies link to destruction of Cory streamers – A spokesman for Environment Secretary Lito Atienza denounced yesterday insinuations that Atienza had anything to do with vandals tearing down the streamers bearing the

Manila’s 3 most wanted fugitives fall – The Manila Police District (MPD) said yesterday it has arrested the city’s three most wanted persons.

MMDA traffic enforcers to work overtime during the holidays – The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) ordered yesterday its traffic enforcers to render extra hours to deal with the heavier flow of vehicular traffic in

NCRPO orders spy cameras in all Metro jails – Metro police chief Director Roberto Rosales recommended the installation of security cameras in all jails in Metro Manila following the recent jailbreak in Basilan.

PCG warns passengers vs transporting firecrackers – The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) issued yesterday an advisory to passengers, reminding them not to bring firecrackers on board ships illegally.

Quezon City cop tagged in Caloocan cop’s slay arrested – A Quezon City police officer tagged in the killing of a Caloocan City policeman during a street brawl Saturday was arrested in a hospital Monday night.

Stabbing spree suspect, victims end up at same hospital – A man who figured in a stabbing spree in Malabon was arrested by a police officer yesterday when his victims saw him enter the emergency room of a Manila hospital where

Philippine Star – Nation

Kurara Chibana, WFP’s celebrity partner in Japan, and KC Concepcion, WFP’s Philippine ambassador against hunger, chat with residents of Lupang Arenda in Taytay, Rizal, which was completely submerged by floodwaters brought by tropical storm ‘Ondoy,’ during a visit last Monday. ERNIE PEÑAREDONDO – The United Nations World Food Program’s (WFP) relief and recovery operations in Luzon and Mindanao still require $31 million until June 2010, WFP country director

Comelec reverses court ruling, ousts La Union mayor – The female mayor of this town lost her position after the Commission on Elections (Comelec) unseated her and installed her opponent in the 2007 elections.

Gomez disputes residency raps – Actor and congressional candidate Richard Gomez said yesterday he is ready to prove that he has been living in Ormoc, Leyte for more than two years after a

Northern Samar provincial legal officer shot dead – The extra-judicial killings of prominent personalities continue to occur in Northern Samar, this time victimizing the provincial legal officer.

Padaca files motion to fight ouster – Isabela Gov. Grace Padaca has filed a motion for reconsideration against last week’s ruling of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) ordering her to vacate her

Sarangani town takes steps vs Maguindanao spillover – The municipal government has imposed an 11 p.m. curfew as a precautionary measure against a possible spillover here of the lingering tension in Maguindanao.

USAID, Rotary launch Water Alliance – The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and Rotary International (RI) launched yesterday the Water Alliance, a joint initiative to provide

Philippine Star – Opinion

– As the Supreme Court refused yesterday to dismiss outright petitions on the declaration of martial law, President Arroyo defended her Proclamation 1959, saying she did

A Tiger by the tail – Tiger Woods caught by the tail certainly puts many things in perspective.

Bad faith – When a buyer enters into a contract of sale, he has the obligation to pay the consideration in good faith or to give what he owes the seller without concealment or

Bulwark against abuse – There is a key factor that will prevent Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo from abusing the presidential power to declare martial law: the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Duque, banana men bring tiff to Arroyo – BIR chief Joel Tan-Torres wrote: “This refers to your columns on the delay in BIR processing to transfer the property of Eufemia P. Almeda, and the Sicpa case (

Merry-go-round in Metro Manila politics – While much attention is focused on the upcoming presidential elections in May 2010, local contests are as intense, especially here in Metro Manila.

Dec. 13, 7pm—Dec. 14, 7pm

ABS-CBN – Business

Ayala-led firm’s listing plan approved by PSE – MANILA, Philippines – Ayala-led Integrated Micro-Electronics, Inc. (IMI) has received Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) approval for its plan to list its shares by way of

Bidding for 34.5-hectare lot in Bonifacio attracts 12 firms – MANILA, Philippines – Twelve firms have officially expressed interest in bidding for the development of a 34.5-hectare military-owned property south of Fort Bonifacio in

Bond yields seen down, but deficit worries weigh – MANILA/HONG KONG – Philippine bond yields are seen falling further in the coming sessions, but the declines are likely to be limited by uncertainty how big will be this

Cadbury rejects Kraft takeover bid – LONDON – British confectionary group Cadbury on Monday rejected a takeover bid from US giant Kraft Foods, describing the offer as insufficient.

Century Peak unit gets foreign partner for nickel, chromite processing – MANILA, Philippines – A subsidiary of publicly listed Century Peak Metal Holdings Corp. (CPMHC) will tie up with a foreign company to process ore from its Casiguran

Dollar down in cautious Asian trade – TOKYO – The dollar fell against the yen and the euro in Asia on Monday, giving back some of its strong gains seen late last week in response to positive US economic

Dubai to pay debt with $10-B Abu Dhabi handout – DUBAI – The Dubai government said Monday it will pay $4.1 billion to cover maturing Islamic bonds issued by its Nakheel property developer after receiving a $10-billion

Gil Beltran: Deficit likely to hit P300-B – Finance Undersecretary Gil Beltran said the country’s full-year budget deficit will likely reach as much as P300 billion, not P320 billion as predicted by most analysts.

Govt may hike 2010 deficit gap – MANILA, Philippines – Economic managers will be meeting today to review next year’s macroeconomic targets, with approval of a wider deficit target a distinct

Govt to buy less than 500,000 T rice from Dec 8 tender – The National Food Authority said it may buy less than 500,000 tons of rice out of an initial 600,000 tons it had sought from foreign suppliers due to high prices.

GSIS beefs up stake in Philex – MANILA, Philippines – Copper-gold producer Philex Mining Corp. has confirmed that state pension fund Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) now owns a 5.14% stake in

ICTSI gets $100-M loan from BDO – MANILA, Philippines – Port operator International Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI) announced Monday that it has obtained a $100-million loan facility from Banco

Oil players to slash pump prices – MANILA, Philippines – Major and independent oil players have announced they will roll back prices of their petroleum products.

Oil under pressure from strengthening dollar – SINGAPORE – Oil fell in Asian trade Monday as prices came under continued pressure from a strong dollar and US demand concerns, analysts said.

Philippine budget deficit may hit P300-B this year – MANILA – The Philippines’ budget deficit may reach a record P300 billion ($6.5 billion) this year, or 3.8% of gross domestic product, overshooting the government’s

Philippine debt in September inch up to P4.338-T – Each Filipino owes P47,039 to local and foreign creditors. MANILA, Philippines – The National Government’s total debt stock inched up to P4.338 trillion as of September

Philippine peso down on strong dollar rally – MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine peso eased by 0.44% from Friday’s close by 0347 GMT on a strong dollar rally fuelled by speculation that the Fed would start

Philippine shares rise 0.36% on light trading – MANILA, Philippines – Philippine share prices closed 0.36% higher Monday on light trading with no major developments to drive the market, dealers said.

Philippines to buy 509,950 T rice; Vinafood 2 to supply most

PLDT expects profits to hit 2009 target of P41-B – HONG KONG — The Philippine Long Distance Telephone (PLDT) Co. expects to finish the year well within its profit projections.

PSE renovations pave way for Makati-Ortigas merger

Public sector debt hits P5-T – MANILA, Philippines – Outstanding debt of the public sector totaled P5.5 trillion in the first quarter, driven by the higher debt of the financial public sector, data

Ravelas: Peso-dollar rate closer to P46 during holidays to reduce OFW-driven spending – Jonas Ravelas, chief market strategist of Banco de Oro, told ANC’s Business Nightly on Monday that “a strong peso [vis-a-vis the US dollar] may not be in the best

RP-EU tax row solution up to next Congress – MANILA, Philippines – A measure to simplify sin taxes — deemed key to resolving a trade dispute between the Philippines and the European Union — will likely have to

South Luzon tollroad workers secure court order vs 1,000 job losses – Labor union members at the state-controlled Philippine National Construction Corporation (PNCC), which currently manage the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX), have managed

Typhoons dampen Pinoys’ inclination to spend – MANILA, Philippines – More Filipinos are likely to cut back on spending next year, bucking the regional trend of continued consumption in line with an expected economic

ABS-CBN – Metro Manila

3 suspected robbers caught with loot – MANILA, Philippines – Police arrested Monday three suspected robbers in Caloocan City after they were caught carrying deadly weapons and a stolen purse.

‘Ondoy hero’ honored by TIME magazine – Napabilang sa top ten heroes ng prestihiyosong TIME magazine ang 18 anyos na Pinoy na si Muelmar Magallanes. Ibinuwis ni Muelmar ang buhay para maisalba ang mahigit 30

Querubin wife eyes charges vs Army major – MANILA – The wife of detained Marine Col. Ariel Querubin is eyeing the possible filing of criminal charges against another detainee, Maj. Jason Aquino, after she

ABS-CBN – Nation

4 justices still want to rule on martial law – MANILA, Philippines – At least 4 magistrates believe that the petitions seeking to void the declaration of martial law in Maguindanao should not be declared moot despite

Congress to end Joint session on Martial law in Maguindanao today – Congress to end Joint session on Martial law in Maguindanao today

Ex-AFP comptroller, family charged with money laundering – MANILA, Philippines – Former military comptroller Maj. Gen. General Carlos Garcia and his family are facing new charges of money laundering for allegedly amassing over

Freedom of Info bill passed on 3rd reading – MANILA, Philippines – Voting unanimously, the Senate approved Monday on third and final reading the proposed Freedom of Information Act of 2009 which mandates full and

Is it rebellion or murder? Legarda questions DOJ charges – Is it rebellion or murder? Legarda questions DOJ charges

Joint session on martial law adjourns – Independent commission to review ‘1959′ sought MANILA, Philippines – After three session days and around 17 hours of deliberations, Congress’ historic joint session on

Joint session on martial law resumes – MANILA, Philippines – Congress’ joint session on Proclamation 1959 imposing martial law in Maguindanao resumed 4 p.m. on Monday with officials of the executive

Maguindanao fraud recalled in FPJ’s 5th death rites – MANILA, Philippines – The family, friends and supporters of Fernando Poe Jr. (FPJ) on Monday commemorated the 5th death anniversary of the legendary movie actor.

Martial law lifted, but debate on legality not yet over – Binawi na ang martial law, pero hindi rin natapos agad ang joint session ng Senado at Kamara! May gustong ideklara pa ring labag sa Konstitusyon ang martial law sa

Martial law weakens murder case vs Ampatuan: lawyer – MANILA, Philippines – The declaration of martial law in Maguindanao has dealt a blow to the criminal cases filed against Datu Unsay, Maguindanao Mayor Andal Ampatuan Jr.

Massacre victims’ kin need legal support: IFJ – MANILA, Philippines – The International Federation of Journalists on Monday urged the international community to help provide legal support for the families of victims

Philippine left backs Villar, Legarda – MANILA, Philippines – After months of courtship, presidential candidate Manuel Villar of the Nacionalista Party (NP) succeeded in getting the support of the leftist

Production delays of voting machines dog Comelec – Kabado si Comelec Chairman Jose Melo! Mismong Smartmatic-TIM na kasi ang nagsabing hindi nila maidedeliver ngayong buwan ang ipinangakong bilang ng makinang gagamitin sa

Salonga urges Supreme Court to rule on martial law – MANILA, Philippines – Former Senate President Jovito Salonga on Monday asked the Supreme Court to schedule oral arguments and rule on the various petitions seeking to

Senate approves P1.5 trillion 2010 budget – MANILA, Philippines – Voting 12-1, the Senate approved on second and third reading the 1.514 trillion proposed national budget for 2010.

Senate says martial law unconstitutional – MANILA, Philippines – Majority of senators on Monday signed a resolution declaring as unconstitutional President Arroyo’s proclamation of martial law in Maguindanao.

Smartmatic-TIM to send only 30,000 PCOS machines

ABS-CBN – Regions

50% of Tacloban inmates register for 2010 polls

Agusan hostage crisis suspects now in custody – Hawak ngayon ng crisis management committee si Ondo Perez at 18 ng miyembro ng kanyang grupong nang-hostage ng mga residente sa Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur. Ito’y

Albay gears for evacuations after Mayon eruption nears – Itinaas na ng Phivolcs ang alert level 3 dahil sa patuloy na pag-aalburuto ng Bbulkang Mayon. Ibig sabihin, sisimulan na ang sapilitang paglilikas sa mga nakatira

‘Authorities knew of Basilan jailbreak plan’ – But number of people involved was ‘unexpected’ Authorities knew of a plan to rescue a commander of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) from the Basilan Provincial

Basilan appeals for emergency rule after jail break – ZAMBOANGA, Philippines – The government of Basilan province appealed Monday for a state of emergency to be declared after dozens of Islamic militants escaped from jail

Gov’t won’t cut troop strength in Maguindanao – MANILA, Philippines – The military on Monday said it will maintain the number of government troops in Maguindanao to maintain peace and order after the lifting of

Justice chief files COC for Congress seat – MANILA, Philippines – Taking after the example set by Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita, Justice Secretary Agnes Devanadera filed Monday her certificate of candidacy

Lava flows from Mayon Volcano – Evacuation ordered after Phivolcs raises alert to 3 The provincial government of Albay on Monday evening said they will implement mandatory evacuations at the 6-8

Mayon Volcano alert level up; Evacuations imminent – Tungkol pa rin sa pagbuga ng abo ng Mayon Volcano: sa pinakahuling balita, itataas na sa level 3 ang  alert status ng bulkan. Nasa linya ng telepono si Albay

MILF denies hand in Basilan jailbreak – MANILA, Philippines – The Moro Islamic Liberation Front on Monday said it had no involvement in a massive jailbreak in Isabela City, Basilan, which left three people

Military: Jailbreak aim was to free MILF commander – Pinaiimbestigahan na ng PNP sa CIDG ang lahat ng opisyal at tauhan ng Basilan Provincial Jail dahil sa pagtakas ng 31 bilanggo. Naniniwala naman ang militar na pakay

Mt. Mayon spews more ash – MANILA, Philippines – Mayon Volcano in Albay province spewed more ash on Monday, raising fears of an imminent eruption.

New ARMM governor takes charge of region – Pormal nang umupo sa pwesto si ARMM acting governor Ansarudin Adiong bilang kapalit ni Zaldy Ampatuan na isinangkot sa kasong rebelyon. Isang independent commission din

Padaca to appeal Comelec ruling on 2007 victory – MANILA, Philippines – Isabela Gov. Grace Padaca on Monday said she is filing a motion for reconsideration before the Commission on Elections en banc on the poll body’s

Palparan gets hostile reception in Bacolod – MANILA, Philippines – Bantay party-list representative and senatorial candidate Jovito Palparan on Monday was met by protests while having a press conference with

Witness: Mediamen were the first to be killed in Ampatuan massacre – Nagsumite ng salaysay sa Criminal Investigation and Detection Group ang isa pang testigo sa Maguindanao massacre. At ayon sa kanya, hindi ang mga Mangudadatu ang unang

GMA News.tv Breaking

“Princess and the Frog” hops to No. 1 with $25M – LOS ANGELES – “The Princess and the Frog” has earned a big wet kiss from family audiences with a No. 1 weekend of $25 million.

Accenture marks 1st sponsor to cut ties with Tiger Woods – Global consulting firm Accenture Ltd. has ended its relationship with Tiger Woods, marking the first major sponsor to cut ties altogether with the golfer since his

Aussie, Chinese officials urge pandas to reproduce – ADELAIDE, Australia – Australian and Chinese officials urged two bamboo-munching giant pandas on Sunday to consider reproducing during their 10-year residency Down

Chile: Billionaire beat leftists, now faces runoff – Chile’s presidential race is headed to a runoff election between right-wing billionaire Sebastian Pinera and former President Eduardo Frei.

Concerts rage against “backhoe” politics, climate change – Musicians and concerned citizens call for all-out change in back-to-back weekend concerts in Metro Manila. It”s art for the country”s sake.

Denmark: Nearly 1,000 climate protesters released – COPENHAGEN – Danish police on Sunday released hundreds of activists who were detained during a mass rally demanding strong action from delegates at the U.N. climate

Dubai OFWs in the face of the UAE”s credit crisis – DUBAI, UAE – With the repercussions of Dubai”s worst financial crisis still hanging thick in the air, life for most Filipinos working in this Middle Eastern cosmopolitan

Gov’t to auction off lease deal on Fujimi property on Dec. 21 – The government is holding another auction for its 4,361-square meter Fujimi property in Tokyo after a failed sale on December 3.

Iraq: 13 suspects arrested in Baghdad blasts – BAGHDAD – An Iraqi Interior Ministry official says 13 suspected al-Qaida-linked insurgents are in custody as alleged planners in last week’s deadly bombings in Baghdad.

Johnny Depp can’t get used to winning awards – NASSAU, Bahamas – Hollywood heartthrob Johnny Depp suspects he’ll never get used to receiving awards for his acting work.

Magsaysays back Ebdane”s gubernatorial bid in Zambales – The Magsaysay clan in Zambales announced its support for the gubernatorial bid of former public works secretary Hermogenes Ebdane Jr. after a family member withdrew her

Man who cheated Pinoy jobseekers in UAE on court trial – A man who cheated three Filipino jobseekers in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) last July went on trial on Sunday, with the victims testifying against him.

MILF denies any role in Basilan jailbreak – The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) vehemently denied Monday any involvement in Sunday’s predawn jailbreak in the southern province of Basilan that killed two

Mindanao rebels admit killing three, despite planning to execute only one – KIDAPAWAN CITY – Mindanao-based communist guerillas admitted to killing three village guards in Columbio, Sultan Kudarat despite having planned to execute only one.

Ministers meet for informal climate talks – (Updated 10:49 p.m.) COPENHAGEN – Danish police detained more than 200 activists Sunday on a second day of street protests over climate change as environment ministers

More firms to choose bonds, stocks over loans to raise funds – BSP – The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) expects more companies to turn to the bond and equity markets to raise funds for their expansion and pay off debt next year.

NFA partially awards rice contracts – Manila yesterday has partially awarded 509,950 metric tons (MT) of rice to four international suppliers that submitted bids on December 1, the National Food Authority

Obama gives himself a B-plus grade – President Barack Obama is giving himself “a good solid B-plus” grade for his first year in office.

Obamas join stars for Christmas benefit concert – WASHINGTON – The nation’s capital got in the holiday spirit Sunday night when music legends Neil Diamond and Mary J. Blige performed for President Barack Obama at the

Ocampo, Maza share NP senatorial slate with Bongbong Marcos – Militant lawmakers Satur Ocampo and Liza Maza have finally agreed to become senatorial candidates of the Nacionalista Party (NP), sharing the slate with Ilocos Norte

Oil falls below $69 as OPEC signals no output cut – SINGAPORE – Oil prices fell below $69 a barrel Monday in Asia amid signs OPEC won’t cut crude output when it meets next week.

PNP: Agusan Sur hostage takers to face indigenous court – Despite the “happy ending” to a four-day hostage crisis in Agusan del Sur province, the former paramilitary men who took at least 75 people hostage last week are not yet

Ransom asked for abducted Basilan state college official – The kidnappers of a Basilan State College (BSC) official are asking for a P20-million ransom in exchange for his freedom, a provincial official said.

RP nets four golds in swimming, athletics – A spate of record breaking feats courtesy of hammer thrower Arniel Ferrera and swimmers Daniel Coakley and Ryan Arabejo sparked Team Philippines’ resurgence in the 25th

RP stocks barely move as market stays watchful – Philippine share prices barely moved on Monday, with investors remaining generally cautious and looking for signs of where the global economy was headed.

Stephen King to pay for US troops’ holiday trip home – BANGOR, Maine – Author Stephen King and his wife are donating money so 150 soldiers from the Maine Army National Guard can come home for the holidays.

Woods’ colleagues wait and wonder, like everyone – Say Tiger Woods’ name around his PGA Tour colleagues, and the reactions are swift and varied.

GMA News.tv Business

Accenture marks 1st sponsor to cut ties with Woods – Global consulting firm Accenture Ltd. has ended its relationship with Tiger Woods, marking the first major sponsor to cut ties altogether with the golfer since his

BoI eyes vehicle-specific perks to lure investments – Anticipating a drop in car import tariffs next year and automakers” possible decisions to consolidate factories in the region, the Board of Investments (BoI) said it may

Gov’t bans poultry products from Germany, French village – Manila has banned bird and poultry imports from Germany and from the village of Saint Aubin du Plain in France following an outbreak of a mild strain of avian influenza

Indian IT firm Aptech Ltd. to set up Philippine BPO training unit – Aptech Ltd., an Indian information technology (IT) training firm, will set up a Philippine unit next year, its Filipino joint venture partner said last week.

Legacy Group owner faces more suits for fraud – The Philippine Deposit Insurance Corp. (PDIC) has filed yet another set of fraud complaints against Legacy Group owner Celso delos Angeles, bringing the total number of

Monetary Board OK”s €31-M loan for bridge upgrade, repair – The Monetary Board approved on Thursday the plan of the Public Works department to borrow €31.55 million from two Spain-based banks to finance the construction, upgrade

Monetary Board relaxes rules on trust accounts – Banks’ trust departments may now invest the money of their wealthy clients in foreign currency-denominated products, giving these clients more investment options.

NTC eyes sanctions on telcos for noncompliance with per-pulse billing – Regulators have summoned mobile network operators to a hearing on Monday over their alleged failure to comply with the new billing system for mobile phone calls.

Petron to sell shares for plant, refinery upgrade – Petron Corp., the country’s largest oil refiner, will invest heavily in retail expansion and refinery upgrade in the next five years using funds from the sale of new

Philippine tourist arrivals grow by a fifth in third quarter – Tourist arrivals went up by nearly a fifth in the third quarter, as a result of new tourist destinations and increased flight frequencies from Manila and other islands

Philippines may hike 2010 budget deficit cap – Economic managers will meet on Monday to review next year”s macroeconomic targets, and may approve a wider deficit target following the passage of revenue-eroding

Philippines may increase 2010 budget deficit cap – Economic managers will meet on Monday to review next year”s macroeconomic targets, and may approve a wider deficit target following the passage of revenue-eroding

PLDT expects to hit P41-B profit target this year – Philippine Long Distance Telephone (PLDT) Co. expects to finish the year well within its profit projections.

PSE approves Ayala unit IMI”s listing plan – The Philippine Stock Exchange has approved Ayala-led Integrated Micro-Electronics, Inc.”s plan to list its shares without necessarily raising capital by selling these to

RP-EU tax row solution up to next Congress – Approval of a measure to simplify sin taxes – deemed key to resolving a trade dispute between the Philippines and the European Union – will likely have to wait for the

GMA News.tv Nation

Arroyo in good health after checkup – Remonde – President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo is in good health condition and was allowed to check out of St. Luke’s Medical Center (SLMC) Sunday afternoon, Press Secretary Cerge

Costlier shipping delayed poll machine delivery – Comelec – High shipping costs and traffic caused by increased trade during the holidays have delayed the delivery of 12,000 voting machines, the Commission on Elections (Comelec)

DOJ chief to run for Quezon congresswoman in 2010 polls – Another Cabinet official threw her hat into the political ring on Monday as Justice Secretary Agnes Devanadera confirmed she will be taking the place of her sister as

Ex-AFP comptroller Garcia, family charged with money laundering – The Office of the Ombudsman has filed a money laundering case against former military comptroller Maj. Gen. Carlos F. Garcia (retired) and his family for allegedly

Negotiator for G77, China bucks backroom deal on climate change – Negotiators at the climate change summit in Copenhagen must reject a backroom deal, with the clock ticking and a host of issues yet to be solved, the top negotiator for

Noynoy leads, Villar not far behind in new survey – Sen. Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III continues to lead the latest presidential survey of a public relations firm, but Sen. Manny Villar is slowly inching closer, a

Pagasa: Good weather to allow clear view of meteor shower – Stargazers are likely to get a clear view of the annual Geminids meteor shower starting Monday night, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services

Palace to critics: What is you alternative to martial law? – Malacañang on Monday expressed fears that the arrests made and the gathered pieces of evidence during the imposition of week-long martial in Maguindanao would

Palace to critics: What is your alternative to martial law? – Malacañang on Monday expressed fears that the arrests made and the gathered pieces of evidence during the imposition of week-long martial in Maguindanao would

Philippines confident of creating more ‘green’ jobs next year – Starting next year, the Philippine government will be able to create more “green” jobs and workplaces and promote economic growth at the same time.

Querubin, wife face charges for attacking detained soldier – Detained military Col. Ariel Querubin and his wife Maria Flor are facing charges for allegedly manhandling a fellow detained officer inside the Armed Forces headquarters

Senate lauded for passing Freedom of Info bill on 2nd reading – Members of the multi-sectoral Right to Know. Right Now! network will march to the Senate on Monday to congratulate and thank the senators for the passage of Senate Bill

Senate OKs 2010 national budget on 3rd reading – Voting 12-1, the Senate on Monday morning approved on third and final reading the proposed P1.514-trillion national budget for next year.

Senate OKs 2010 nat’l budget on 3rd reading – Voting 12-1, the Senate on Monday morning approved on third and final reading the proposed P1.514-trillion national budget for next year.

Senate OKs freedom of information bill on 3rd reading – The Senate on Monday approved on third and final reading the Freedom of Information Bill which seeks that all public records should be available to all interested

Senate OKs reso declaring martial law unconstitutional – (Updated 12 noon) The Senate on Monday morning passed a resolution expressing its disapproval of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo”s martial law declaration in

Senate OKs reso saying martial law in Maguindanao void – (Updated 12 noon) The Senate on Monday morning passed a resolution expressing its disapproval of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo”s martial law declaration in

Two militant lawmakers share NP senatorial slate with Bongbong Marcos – Militant lawmakers Satur Ocampo and Liza Maza have finally agreed to become senatorial candidates of the Nacionalista Party (NP), sharing the slate with Ilocos Norte

Vandals hit Cory, Ninoy streamers in Manila – Unidentified persons on Saturday vandalized a number of streamers bearing the faces of the late President Corazon “Cory” Aquino and her husband, slain Senator Benigno

GMA News.tv Regional

1 of 31 escaped Basilan inmate killed, another captured – Philippine security forces on Monday shot dead an escaped prisoner and captured another as the hunt continues for dozens of gunmen and inmates who escaped from a jail in

1 of 31 escaped Basilan inmates killed, another captured – Philippine security forces on Monday shot dead an escaped prisoner and captured another as the hunt continues for dozens of gunmen and inmates who escaped from a jail in

Basilan jail warden, 2 others under probe for jailbreak – The provincial warden of Basilan and two others were placed under investigation on Monday for their alleged involvement in the escape of about 31 inmates – most of them

Mindanao rebels admit killing three, despite planning to execute only one – KIDAPAWAN CITY – Mindanao-based communist guerillas admitted to killing three village guards in Columbio, Sultan Kudarat despite having planned to execute only one.

NPA rebels admit killing three in Sultan Kudarat – KIDAPAWAN CITY – Mindanao-based communist guerillas admitted to killing three village guards in Columbio, Sultan Kudarat despite having planned to execute only one.

Some Maguindanao residents start returning to their homes – With martial law lifted over the weekend, some residents of Maguindanao who fled during its implementation last week have started returning to their homes.

Inquirer (Nation)

BSP warned on raising OFW hopes – Recruitment agencies Sunday warned the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) against making statements about the expected rise in remittances from overseas Filipino workers

Civil gov’t now more dependent on military – In response to escalating public pressure, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on Saturday lifted martial law in Maguindanao, averting a ruling by the Supreme Court on

Congress to wrap up joint session – With martial law in Maguindanao province lifted, the administration-backed majority in Congress is expected to move to adjourn its deliberations on Monday without

Hunt still on for suspects in massacre – Security forces, still armed with emergency powers though martial law had been lifted, pressed ahead with the hunt for those behind the massacre of 57 people in

It’s a weird, wild, wonderful world – PARIS—Here are the weird, wild and wonderful stories from 2009. Anti-graft officials in the Nepalese capital Kathmandu found a way to literally stop airport workers from

Media, rights groups push for people’s right to know – Journalists and civil rights activists will troop to the Senate on Monday to push for the passage of a landmark Freedom of Information Act before Congress goes on recess

Moro rebels storm Basilan jail, set free 31 prisoners – Using sledgehammers and bolt cutters, dozens of Moro rebels on Sunday smashed their way into the Basilan provincial jail, freeing 31 inmates, in a predawn attack that

Probe plunder raps vs Ampatuans, gov’t urged – Throw the book at them. The alleged ill-gotten wealth of the Ampatuans that spawned their mansions, “war arsenal” and large private army should be looked into, now that

Retirees oppose SSS high-tech ID project – An association of retirees has expressed opposition to a P1.68-billion project of the Social Security System (SSS) to issue high-tech identification cards to its

Stories, gifts for kids at Inquirer Read-Along – Christmas arrived early on Saturday for 100 children who were treated to heartwarming stories and gifts of books and toys during an Inquirer Read-Along session held at

Worldwide rallies push climate deal – US supporters of a strong climate deal in Copenhagen on Saturday lit candles and erected a mock Noah’s Ark in Washington, warning leaders that the planet faced a crisis

Manila Bulletin

Main News – AFP, PNP continue manhunt vs Maguindanao CVOs – The Army’s 6th Infantry Division which has jurisdictions over Maguindanao province will continue to enforce rule of law until normalcy is achieved following the lifting

Main News – Agusan Sur solon relieved by peaceful end of hostage – Agusan del Sur Rep. Rodolfo “Ompong” Plaza expressed relief Monday over the peaceful end of the three-day hostage drama in his province, following the Sunday release of

Main News – BoC seeks US help in probe of Davao cocaine shipment – The Bureau of Customs is seeking the assistance of the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) as it pursues its investigation of the illegal shipment of

Main News – Bongbong pays courtesy call to Mayor Limtal – Senatorial candidate Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos and his sister, Ilocos Norte Gov. Imee Marcos, paid a courtesy call over the weekend at the Manila city hall to court

Main News – Breaking news: Mayon spews lava, ashes – Mayon volcano has been spewing lava and ashes that reached a height of about 100 metres (330 feet) on Monday, says Phivolcs.

Main News – Climate next on Palace agenda – President Arroyo will call on developed countries to decrease carbon dioxide emissions at the 15th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP15) in Copenhagen,

Main News – Colder days ahead, says PAGASA – A diffused tail end of the cold front will make early mornings much colder in Southern Luzon and the eastern sections of Visayas, Pagasa said Monday.

Main News – DoLE eyes psycho-social counseling for seamen – The Department of Labor and Employment (DoLE) plans to provide psycho-social counseling and support services to families of abducted seafarers in Somalia and the Gulf of

Main News – DPWH scores fund delay – The DPWH is still reeling from the delay of funds to be released by the national government for the speedy repair of infrastructures that were severely destroyed by

Main News – Energy bar from corn – The Bureau of Agricultural Research (BAR) and the Philippine Women’s University (PWU) are collaborating on bringing into supermarket shelves the corn energy bar, a food

Main News – Filipinos prepare for Simbang Gabi – The nine-day dawn masses which begins before sunrise Wednesday sends a native but jubilant message that “God is not frozen in history.”

Main News – GMA to defend ‘1959’ – President Arroyo will break her silence over her imposition of martial law in Maguindanao before leaving for Denmark this Wednesday.

Main News – Housing eyed for Muntinlupa families – The Muntinlupa City government is studying a plan to build more houses for families living along the Laguna de Bay coastline, which is considered a danger zone.

Main News – Italian PM bloodied in attack – An attacker hurled a statuette at Italian Premier Silvio Berlusconi on Sunday, leaving the stunned 73-year-old media mogul with a broken nose and bloodied mouth.

Main News – Lacson fears Ampatuan murder case may be dismissed – Sen. Panfilo Lacson Monday expressed fears that the murder case filed against members of the Ampatuan clan may be dismissed due to a technicality.

Main News – Lawyers ask SC to rule of Martial Law petitions – Human rights lawyers from the Philippines, South Korea, Japan and Australia on Monday urged the Supreme Court to continue to rule on the various pending petitions it has

Main News – LGUs urged to help reduce Bay pollution – Environment officials in Central Luzon urged LGUs bordering Manila Bay to use a portion of their local development funds to finance environmental enhancement programs to

Main News – Local governments asked to finance programs to lessen Manila Bay pollution – Environment authorities here are asking local government units to use a portion of their local development funds to finance environmental enhancement programs to bring

Main News – Malacañang keeps hands off jailbreak – Malacañang said Monday it will leave the concern on the Basilan jailbreak to the proper authorities, saying that it is an “ongoing issue.”

Main News – Malacañang sees no harm in raising deficit ceiling – Malacañang assured Monday that the government’s possible move to widen deficit target next year “won’t duly alarm the markets.”

Main News – Man arrested for tearing Aquino posters – A 43-year-old man was arrested for allegedly tearing down eight yellow posters and streamers of former President Corazon Aquino and her husband assassinated former

Main News – Man steals from own house – A seemingly responsible man reportedly assisted burglars into his own home in Lapaz, Iloilo City by opening the door himself barely 30 minutes before midnight on Friday.

Main News – Migrante seeks repatriation of stranded OFWs – Migrante International will push for the immediate repatriation of some 250 overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) stranded for six months in Doha, Riyadh, and Jeddah.

Main News – MMDA reviewing coding scheme – With the increase in the volume of traffic due to increased influx of vehicles and shopping activities in malls, the Number Coding Scheme, or the Unified Vehicular

Main News – Money laundering case filed vs ex-general, family – A money laundering case has been filed with the Sandiganbayan against retired Maj. Gen. Carlos F. Garcia and his family involving over P300 million in alleged ill-gotten

Main News – NBI files affidavits of massacre witnesses with DoJ – The NBI filed Monday afternoon affidavits and sworn statements of 21 witnesses at the Department of Justice (DoJ), implicating 28 personalities in the November 23

Main News – PNP wants high-risk Mindanao detainees transferred to Manila – The PNP is eyeing the transfer of all high-risk detainees in Mindanao to a more secure detention facility in Metro Manila following the rescue of 31 inmates and the

Main News – Removal of terrorist tag for Sison welcomed – Malacañang on Monday said the delisting of Communist Party of the Philippines founder Jose Maria Sison from EU’s terrorist blacklist should pave the way for the

Main News – Senate approves 2010 budget – The Senate, by a 12-1 vote, passed on second and third reading Monday the proposed P1.54 trillion budget for 2010.

Main News – Senate passes Freedom of Information Act – The Senate passed on third reading the Freedom of Information Act of 2009, paving the way for the constitutional right to know and the state policy of full disclosure of

Main News – Valenzuela City reactivates TIPC – Valenzuela City’s labor and management sectors lauded the Valenzuela City Tripartite Industrial Peace Council (TIPC) crediting it with the smooth relationship between

Main News – Western Union rob suspects still at large – Three suspected robbers who barged in at a money transfer firm located along Sangandaan, Caloocan City over the weekend remain at large, a police official said.

Opinion – A warlord in Mindanao – Merry-Go-Round

Opinion – Conspiracy and all that… – At Issue

Opinion – Election & other economic boosters – Punchline

Opinion – Emilio D. Jacinto 134th Birth Anniversary – Andres Bonifacio, Supremo of the Katipunan, described Emilio D. Jacinto as the “Soul and Intelligence of the Katipunan” (El Alma y Inteligencia del Katipunan).

Opinion – Idols with feet of clay – Medium Rare

Opinion – Objectives achieved – Cerge for Truth

Opinion – Open with a global outlook – Swimming Against the Current

Opinion – The first Asian head of the UN Atomic Agency – A Global View

Opinion – The parable of the two sons – Reflections

Opinion – The three-fold responsibilities of a Catholic university in the modern world – Editorial

Opinion – War and dissent – Landscape

Opinion – Who’s minding the store now? – Plain View

Opinion – Will 2010 be different? – Chaff from the Grain

Regional – Be wary of holiday diseases, DoH warns – With the holiday season fast approaching, the threat of diseases these cold months and the lifestyle of people could be fatal to one’s health.

Regional – Blood donation info sought – The National Voluntary Blood Services Program, through its sub-national blood center for the Visayas, has conducted Monday an orientation for members of the Kapisanan ng

Regional – Bohol eyes P1.1-B investment plan in 2010 – The Bohol Provincial Development Council (PDC) has endorsed to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) the 2010 proposed P1.1-billion annual investment plan (AIP).

Regional – Duterte asks understanding for lumads – Vice Mayor Sara Duterte appealed to residents for more patience and understanding for hundreds of lumad carolers hopin to receive something from households during this

Regional – Envoy vows to attract UK investments in RP energy sector – The British envoy to the Philippines, Stephen Lillie, has committed to ask power stakeholders from the United Kingdom to invest in the country.

Regional – Gov’t earmarks P10 M for dev’t, rehab of Mindanao River Basin – The Department of Environment and Natural Resources has earmarked a total amount of P10 million for the formulation of a rehabilitation and development plan for the

Regional – Malaysia optimistic on talks – The Malaysian government has expressed optimism that the peace negotiations between the Government of the Republic of the Philippines and the Moro Islamic Liberation

Regional – NGO boosts education for bar workers – Kalinga Crossover Mission, a non-government organization, in partnership with the DepED and the City Health Services Office’s Reproductive Health and Wellness Center, is

Regional – No final list of voters yet for Cordillera – Comelec – The Cordillera office of the Comelec does not yet have a complete list of registered voters in the entire region since it just started validating the records of the

Regional – Tax-free privileges to boost Olongapo business – The extension of Subic Bay Freeport’s tax and duty-free privileges to the City of Olongapo will be a key component in realizing the P3-billion development project

Regional – Unidentified woman’s body recovered – The bicameral conference committee approved on Wednesday the reconciled version of the Magna Carta for Homeowners and Homeowners Associations, a measure seeking to

Regional – Zambo hospital opens women’s and newborn facility, pharmacy – he Zamboanga City Medical Center inaugurated its newly built hospital pharmacy and the Zamboanga Center for Women’s Health and Newborn Care costing some P20 million for

Manila Standard

Metro – Inocentes, Maganto cross paths – Retired police general Romeo Maganto has aired some unsolicitied advice about the hardline policy against street hawkers but Chairman Oscar Inocentes of the Metro Manila

Metro – Shifting alliances crowd Muntinlupa – Entrenched in Lakas-Kampi-CMD, re-electionist Mayor Aldrin San Pedro is backing the candidacy of Liberal Party Senator Rodolfo for Muntinlupa City’s lone congressional

Metro – World Bank, expert cite x-ray scanners – The World Bank and a customs operations analyst commissioned by Washington-based Millennium Challenge Corp. have commended the Bureau of Customs’ X-Ray Inspection

Metro – Younger Tinga a full-fledged Liberal – Taguig City Mayor Freddie Tinga has signed up with the Liberal Party over the weekend even as his father, who is running to replace him, remains with the Kilusang Diwa

Nation – 370,000 jobless given work – VARIOUS government agencies have hired over 370,000 jobless Filipinos in the first 10 months to cushion the effects of the global economic crisis, an official said over

Nation – Agusan bandits give up, free remaining hostages – PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur—Gunmen freed Sunday the 47 hostages they were holding at a jungle hideout in this capital town after government negotiators agreed not to

Nation – Belmonte hands out 100,000 free insurance cover – UP to 100,000 of Quezon City’s 300,000 senior citizens have received free accident insurance from the administration of outgoing Mayor Feliciano Belmonte Jr., who is now

Nation – Canada moves to protect caregivers – TORONTO—The federal government announced steps Saturday to better safeguard foreign caregivers from abuse and exploitation, but opposition critics say the changes

Nation – FVR camp: Aquino lead is dwindling – A SURVEY group linked to former President Fidel V. Ramos has claimed that the lead of Liberal Party presidential candidate Benigno Aquino III has “significantly dropped”

Nation – Govt bans refrigerant materials – THE government is prohibiting the entry of chloroflourocarbons into the country starting next year to help stop the depletion of the planet’s protective ozone layer, an

Nation – Moro rebels raid Basilan jail, spring 31 inmates – SCORES of suspected Islamic militants knocked down a concrete wall and barged into a jail in Isabela City in Basilan on Sunday, freeing 31 inmates including a deputy

Nation – Opposition wants debate on martial law to continue – OPPOSITION senators and congressmen said Sunday they will insist on continuing the debate in Congress this afternoon on the legality of the martial law declared in

Nation – Supreme Court backs Palace order on appeals – THE Supreme Court has affirmed the validity of a Malacañang order prohibiting the filing of an appeal before it to review any decision or resolution by the Justice

Opinion – An incentive to best practices – In the Northern town of Tabuk, Kalinga, the local government created the Matagoan program in 2001 to create a more secure community and help settle tribal conflicts.

Opinion – Exporters surviving – Philippine exporters are not exactly out of the woods yet but latest figures show that the worst may be over for one of the country’s major dollar earners. Exports in

Opinion – Martial law – by Fr. Ranhilio Callangan Aquino Almost as soon as the Maguindanao massacre occurred, TV and radio commentators commenced their usual routine of shadow-boxing. They

Opinion – That feeling of Christmas – by Atty. Rita Linda V. Jimeno The lifting of martial law by the president pre-empted the action of Congress. Under the 1987 Philippine Constitution, Congress should have

Opinion – The political equation in Manila – If we are to believe a survey result published in some newspapers a few days ago, the mayoral race in Manila will be a fight between two retired police

Opinion – The shortsightedness of moralists – This paper featured in its front page last Saturday a news story about the contempt charges filed by a Catholic advocacy group Family Media Advocacy Foundation Inc.,

Manila Times – Business

Aussie firms finalize drill program for Tindalo find – The joint venture of Nido Petroleum Ltd. and Kairiki Energy Ltd. has finalized the drilling program for the Tindalo oil discovery in offshore Palawan.

BSP seen to keep interest rates steady until third quarter of next year – BY LAILANY P. GOMEZ REPORTER AND MARICEL E. BURGONIO SENIOR REPORTER The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is likely to keep its key interest rates unchanged when its

ICTSI taps fresh loan – INTERNATIONAL Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI) has secured a fresh loan from a local bank to refinance debt.

Japan’s business confidence improves – TOKYO: Japan’s business confidence has improved for a third straight quarter but firms plan to slash investment to cope with the fallout of the worst recession in

Managing a national turnaround – BY BENITO L. TEEHANKEE It amazes me just how many people want the top job in the country. The Commission on Elections web site lists 95 candidates for the presidency. In

NEDA warns of new debt crisis at PSALM – BY DARWIN G. AMOJELAR SENIOR REPORTER The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) warned that the government’s difficulty in selling its power-sector assets

Pag-IBIG widens coverage, hikes rates – Home Development Mutual Fund (Pag-IBIG Fund) announced that it would widen its coverage and increase the contribution rate of all members to improve its services.

Petron eyes share sale for capex – BY CHINO S. LEYCO REPORTER THE Philippines’ largest oil refinery said Monday that it plans to raise fresh funds from the issuance of preferred shares and borrowings to

Telcos snub NTC’s order for a rebate – TELECOMMUNICATION companies on Monday dismissed the regulator’s directive to refund subscribers after the firm failed to comply with a new billing scheme for mobile

Manila Times – Nation

Affirming child custody via writ of habeas corpus – by Persida Acosta Dear PAO, I am 29 years old. Two years ago, my partner of three years and I separated because of irreconcilable differences. We have a child whom he

NFA beefs up rice inventory – Eyeing a safe inventory level of the staple when the year starts, the National Food Authority (NFA) has awarded the supply of a total of 509,950 metric tons (MT) of

Ombudsman gets tough – by Jomar Canlas Reporter MONEY Laundering charges were filed by the Office of the Ombudsman on Monday before the Sandiganbayan against beleaguered retired Armed Forces

Ombudsman gets tough on Garcias, Customs official – by Jomar Canlas Reporter MONEY Laundering charges were filed by the Office of the Ombudsman on Monday before the Sandiganbayan against beleaguered retired Armed Forces

PDEA asserts authority to investigate cocaine transshipment in Davao – THE Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) on Monday said it is asserting its lead role in investigating the source of the 16 kilos of high-grade cocaine that were

PNCC workers fear job loss following takeover – Around 1,000 workers from the state-owned Philippine National Construction Corp. (PNCC) may lose their jobs this Christmas season following the scheduled takeover of the

Senate approves 2010 budget – The Senate approved on third and final reading on Monday the 2010 national budget of P1.54 trillion, P400 billion less than the amount recommended by President Gloria

Manila Times – Opinion

A trip to Shanghai – BY TONY LOPEZ Three times in the past three years, a taipan brought me to Shanghai. The first was when Filipino potato chips king in China, Carlos Chan, broke ground for

Failed state? – In anger and frustration, many Filipinos—among them columnists and radio commentators—have been referring to our country as a “failed state.” To these opinion-makers the

Family ties and betrayals in RP politics – BY ALITO L. MALINAO It seems that politics runs in some Filipino families like a plague or an incurable disease. In the 2010 elections, for example, several members of

Internationalizing SMEs – BY GERRY D. CONSTANTINO We applaud The Manila Times for launching a campaign to promote SME development and entrepreneurship. Truly, SMEs have been the unsung heroes of

Missing Cardinal Sin – BY ERNESTO F. HERRERA In my column last week titled “Missing Cory,” I wrote about how vastly different Cory Aquino’s leadership and her presidency were from the current

NPA, logging problems in pretty Davao Oriental – BY MARIT STINUS-REMONDE Danish friends were amazed with a photo of tall coconut trees, a beautiful beach, the open blue sea and white waves posted on my Facebook. The

The nation’s next CEO – BY BUDDY CUNANAN With the last day for filing certificates of candidacy on December 1, it’s all systems go for the 2010 elections. In total, the Commission on Elections

Philippine Star – Headlines

638 more persons charged with rebellion – Police charged with rebellion before the Department of Justice yesterday five members of the Ampatuan clan and 633 others.

Ex-AFP comptroller, family charged with money laundering – The Office of the Ombudsman filed yesterday charges of money laundering at the Sandiganbayan against detained former Armed Forces of the Philippines comptroller Gen.

GMA dinner host plays Santa at House – The congressman who footed a $15,000 bill for a sumptuous dinner for President Arroyo and her entourage in her recent trip to the US played Santa Claus yesterday.

Kidnap raps readied vs Agusan hostage takers – Fifteen Manobo tribesmen who held hostage 75 people in Agusan del Sur for three days will be charged today with 75 counts of kidnapping and serious illegal detention as

Mayon set to erupt; evacuation ordered – The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) raised the alert level at Mayon volcano from 2 to 3 after recording a series of explosions and

Oil firms cut pump prices – Led by Eastern Petroleum Corp., oil companies last night cut the pump prices of diesel and kerosene by P1 per liter and 50 centavos per liter for gasoline to reflect the

PDIC files estafa vs De los Angeles, 7 other Legacy Group executives – State-run Philippine Deposit Insurance Corp. (PDIC) has filed before the Department of Justice two more charges of syndicated estafa against cancer-stricken Sto.

Senate cuts Supreme Court budget by P161 million after Miriam censure – The Supreme Court suffered a P161-million cut from its P11.2-billion budget next year after the Senate approved the amendments proposed by Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago

Senate declares martial law proclamation unconstitutional – The Senate approved yesterday the resolution declaring martial law in Maguindanao unconstitutional despite its lifting last Saturday.

Senate gives final OK to Freedom of Information bill – The Senate passed on third and final reading yesterday the Freedom of Information bill, which broadens disclosure requirements for state transactions involving public

Time to leave behind martial law issue, says Malacañang – As far as Malacañang is concerned, the imposition of martial law in Maguindanao has yielded substantial dividends and it has already been lifted, so it is time to

Villar welcomes Ocampo, Maza as NP’s guest senatorial bets – Sen. Manuel Villar’s Nacionalista Party (NP) announced yesterday that the party had officially adopted party-list Representatives Satur Ocampo of Bayan Muna and

Philippine Star – Metro

Actor turned back at Narita airport – Japanese immigration officers at the Narita International Airport in Japan denied entry to actor John Lloyd Cruz Saturday for allegedly giving false information, sources

JV vows to stop GMA plans for Charter change – Outgoing San Juan City Mayor Joseph Victor Ejercito has vowed to be the biggest stumbling block of President Arroyo in the next Congress, especially in efforts to effect

MMDA fines contractor for obstructing traffic – The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) yesterday fined a contractor working for the Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA) for obstructing traffic along the

QCPD won’t surrender cop tagged in brawl – An official of the Quezon City Police District (QCPD) said yesterday he would not surrender a member of his unit who allegedly killed a fellow policeman in a street

Vandals tear down Cory streamers in Manila – t least 20 streamers bearing the images of the late President Corazon Aquino and her husband, slain former senator Benigno Aquino Jr., were torn down by at least six

Workers protest proposed PNCC takeover by Malaysian firm – About P1,000 workers might lose their jobs this Christmas if the Toll Regulatory Board (TRB) allows a Malaysian-backed company to take over the operations of the

Philippine Star – Nation

Devanadera files COC for Quezon congress seat – Justice Secretary Agnes Devanadera has pursued her bid for a seat in the House of Representatives in next year’s elections.

Disqualification case filed vs Richard Gomez – An eight-page petition for disqualification against congressional candidate Richard Gomez was filed at the Commission on Election in Manila on Dec. 5 by a former

PDEA to conduct inquiry on source of seized cocaine – The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency yesterday tagged as an “international drug case” the discovery of high-grade cocaine at a container yard in Sasa,

Philippine Star – Opinion

– Of 31 inmates who escaped during a raid on the Basilan provincial jail over the weekend, at least three were reportedly members of the separatist Moro Islamic Liberation

Don’t let GMA get away with PP 1959 – Patriotic Filipinos who truly care for their country, especially the Justices of the Supreme Court, should not take that “moot and academic” attitude towards

Jab – The bishop of Basilan is now pleading with the national government to put this troubled island under martial rule.

Oppressive – A writ of preliminary injunction may be issued only upon a clear showing of the actual existence of a right to be protected and the actual or threatened violation of

Selective human rights concern of CHR noted – Have officials of the Commission on Human Rights and their foreign guests gone on vacation after that tiring trip to Maguindanao to register their concern for the

Tomorrow is the first day of Christmas – The Philippines has the longest Christmas celebration in the world: Tomorrow marks the official beginning of our celebrations with the first Misa de Gallo of the simbang

Dec. 12, 7pm—Dec. 13, 7pm

ABS-CBN – Business

Arroyo orders another probe on ‘overpriced’ oil – MANILA – President Arroyo has ordered Energy Secretary Angelo Reyes to check the alleged “overpricing” of petroleum products of some oil companies.

Philippine central bank grants incentives to thrift bank investors – MANILA, Philippines – The policy making body of the Bangko Sentral ang Pilipinas (BSP) is dangling an incentive for rural banks to merge and consolidate. On Friday, the

Roberto Ongpin pours at least P500 million into Atok-Big Wedge – The Ongpin group is pouring at least P500 million into its recent acquisition: Atok-Big Wedge Company. In a disclosure to the stock exchange on Friday, Atok-Big Wedge

ABS-CBN – Metro Manila

As Christmas nears, shoppers – and fraudsters – flock Divisoria – Paboritong destinasyon ng mga gustong makatipid sa kanilang mga pangregalo ngayong pasko ang Divisoria. Bukod sa mura ay maari pang makaktawad sa mga tindero. Pero sa

FPJ kin, supporters to commemorate 5th death anniversary – Magdaraos ng misa ang mga kaanak at tagasuporta ni Fernando Poe Jr. sa paggunita ng kanyang ika-5 taong pagkamatay ngayong disyembre katorse. Pero may mas mahalaga

Hundreds bike for women’s rights – MANILA, Philippines – Around 500 Filipino cyclists joined Amnesty International Philippines (AIPh) in a seven-city tour for women’s advocacy Sunday morning.

Man seized at NAIA allegedly with P1-M worth of shabu – MANILA, Philippines – A 41-year old man set to leave for Guam was nabbed at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Saturday night allegedly for possession of

ABS-CBN – Nation

Arroyo critics push for SC ruling on Maguindanao martial law – MANILA, Philippines – Even after President Arroyo lifted the declaration of martial law in most of Maguindanao province Saturday overtaking a joint Congressional

Arroyo critics to push for Maguindanao martial law probe – Tutuldukan na ng Kongreso ang joint session kaugnay ng deklarasyon ng martial law sa Maguindanao! Pero ang mga kongresistang kritiko ng pangulo itutuloy ang

Gov’t seek forfeiture of ex-BIR chief’s assets – MANILA, Philippines – Lawyers of the Office of the Ombudsman have asked the Sandiganbayan First Division to confiscate in favor of the government all known bank deposits

‘Govt willpower vs lawlessness not martial law needed in Basilan’ – MANILA, Philippines – Sen. Rodolfo Biazon on Sunday said that government willpower is actually needed and not the declaration of martial rule in Basilan and other areas

Philippine crackdown goes on despite end to martial law – MANILA, Philippines – Security forces are pressing ahead with the hunt for those behind a massacre of 57 people despite President Arroyo’s scrapping of martial law in

President Arroyo leaves hospital in QC – MANILA, Philippines – President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on Sunday morning left St. Luke’s Medical Center in Quezon City where she underwent regular medical examinations.

ABS-CBN – Regions

1 dead in landslide in Dinagat Islands – TUBAJON, DINAGAT ISLANDS, Philippines – Two residents were victims of a landslide in Sitio Campayas, Barangay Navarro in Tubajon town in the province of Dinagat Islands

2 dead in Basilan jailbreak – ZAMBOANGA – At least two persons were reported dead after a jailbreak took place at the Basilan Provincial Jail in Isabela City Sunday morning, resulting in the escape

3 dead in Basilan jailbreak – Tatlo ang patay, kabilang ang isang jailguard, sa jailbreak ng 31 preso sa basilan provincial jail kaninang madaling araw! Mula Basilan, nagpa-Patrol Jewel Reyes. TV

Abductors of college professor demand P20-M ransom – MANILA, Philippines – The kidnappers of Orlando Fajardo, the vice president of Basilan State College, are demanding P20 million in exchange for his freedom. The

Agusan del Sur crisis ends – ANC Breaking News. December 13, 2009.

Batangas town in new record bid for recycled Christmas tree – Noong nakaraang taon, gumawa sila ng Christmas tree na gawa sa gulong, ngayon naman isang 30-footer Christmas tree na gawa sa basura ang itinayo ng isang barangay sa

Ex-Maguindanao police chief held for illegal possession of firearms – MANILA, Philippines – Police have arrested the former provincial police chief of Maguindanao on Sunday allegedly for illegal possession of high-powered firearms.

Hostage crisis in Agusan del Sur ends – MANILA, Philippines – The head of the tribal gunmen who held hostage 46 people agreed on Sunday to free the remaining captives, ending the 4-day hostage crisis in the

Hostage drama in Agusan ends – Tapos na ang hostage crisis sa Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur, kasunod ng nangyaring negosasyon ng mga kinatawan ng gobyerno sa group leader na si Juan ‘Ondo’ Perez.

‘Kidnappers in Agusan del Sur demand animal sacrifice’ – PROSPERIDAD, Philippines – Tribal gunmen refused to hand over 47 hostages on Sunday as a 4-day kidnap drama in Sitio Maitom, Agusan del Sur took a bizarre twist with

Quezon mayor survives slay attempt – LUCENA CITY, Philippines – A town mayor in Quezon province survived in a slay attempt perpetrated by a still unidentified suspect in Tiaong, Quezon Sunday morning,

Residents’ fears remain despite lifting of martial law – Tinanggal na ang martial law sa lalawigan ng Maguindanao, kaya nagsisipagbalikan na sa kanilang mga lugar ang mga residenteng lumikas! Pero sa ilang komunidad,

GMA News.tv Breaking

2 die, 31 flee as armed men storm Basilan jail – A police report said dozens of suspected Islamic militants stormed a jail in the volatile southern Philippines, freeing 31 inmates in a predawn Sunday attack that

2 killed, 31 escape in predawn Basilan jailbreak – At least two people were killed while 31 inmates, including two secessionist commanders, escaped in a predawn jailbreak at the Basilan Provincial Jail Sunday.

968 detained at climate rally urging bold pact – Tens of thousands of protesters marched through the chilly Danish capital and nearly 1,000 were detained Saturday in a mass rally to demand an ambitious global climate

Archbishop: Shortened martial law to prolong Maguindanao agony – A shortened martial law over Maguindanao province may mean prolonged agony for its people as it will preserve the political dysfunction there, a Catholic archbishop has

Arum: LA out, Dallas still in race for Pacquiao-Mayweather – RANCHO MIRAGE, California – Boxing promoter Bob Arum expects to settle on a site for Philippine fighter Manny Pacquiao’s bout with Floyd Mayweather Jr. by next week.

Car bomb kills 2 in western Iraq – An Iraqi police official says a bomb-rigged car exploded near a convoy of a top security officer in western Iraq and left at least two people dead.

DOJ ruling vs PEP an early Christmas gift – Richard Gutierrez – Ikinukonsidera ni Richard Gutierrez na maagang Pamasko ang bagong desisyon ng Department of Justice na ituloy ang kasong libelo na isinampa niya laban tatlong tauhan ng

Duque still DOH chief, Remonde says – Health Secretary Francisco Duque III would retain his post, Malacañang said on Sunday, following speculations that he was appointed as new chair of the Civil

Gunmen OKs release of remaining hostages in Agusan del Sur – (Updated 5:43 p.m.) PROSPERIDAD, Agusan del Sur – Gunmen on Sunday agreed to release the more than 40 remaining hostages held in a southern Philippine jungle hide-out

Gunmen release 42 remaining captives in Agusan del Sur – (Updated 6:32 p.m.) The four-day hostage crisis in Agusan del Sur ended on a happy note Sunday after gunmen released the more than 40 remaining hostages held in their

Gunmen release remaining captives in Agusan del Sur – (Updated 6:05 p.m.) The four-day hostage crisis in Agusan del Sur ended on a happy note Sunday after gunmen released the more than 40 remaining hostages held in their

Hawaii abuzz about Obamas’ expected holiday return – Many in this upscale, oceanside suburb of Honolulu are expecting it to again serve as the holiday getaway for scores of reporters, photographers, federal agents- and one

High court hard-pressed for landmark martial law ruling – The Supreme Court is under pressure to pass upon the validity of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo”s December 4 declaration of martial law in Maguindanao, which the

Houston voters elect 1st openly gay mayor – HOUSTON – City Controller Annise Parker made history Saturday by being elected Houston’s first openly gay mayor, seizing 53.6 percent of the vote in the hotly contested

Maguindanao situation to normalize Monday – Palace – Malacañang expects normalcy to start returning to the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao this Monday, when its acting governor goes to its capital of Cotabato

Netters prevent gold medal shutout for RP – The Philippine men”s tennis team prevented a gold medal shutout for the country on Saturday as Cecil Mamiit and Treat Conrad Huey struck hard in the finals of the 25th

Olympic-style drug testing for Pacquiao-Mayweather sought – The camp of Floyd Mayweather Jr. are reportedly seeking a random, Olympic-style drug testing for their fighter and seven-division champion Manny Pacquiao in the run-up

PEP: Mark Anthony Fernandez to undergo surgery – Kumpirmadong mawawala na si Mark Anthony Fernandez si sikat na fantaseryeng Darna . Ngunit hindi ito dahil sa bawal na gamot tulad ng mga kumakalat na balita, kundi sa

Protest actions set vs Comelec decision on Padaca – Youth leaders, politicians, and ordinary citizens supporting Grace Padaca will hold a noise barrage to protest the decision of the Commission on Elections’ (Comelec)

Ramifications for Woods and his sport unfolding – Stewart Cink was at a birthday party when he learned about Tiger Woods taking an indefinite leave from golf. A friend had the news on his cell phone, and even as the

Rising cases of Pinoy trafficking to UAE alarms RP officials – Philippine officials in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are alarmed over a marked rise in trafficking of Filipinos there in the last two years.

Tech blog, Singapore startup feud over tablet PC – About 18 months ago, a technology blogger got fed up with the industry and forged an alliance with a startup to make his dream computer. It almost worked.

Thousands protest in Copenhagen, demand ‘climate justice’ – Industrial countries criticized a draft global warming pact Saturday for not making stronger demands on major developing countries as tens of thousands of banner-waving

Trafficking of Pinoys to UAE alarms RP execs – Philippine officials in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are alarmed over a marked rise in trafficking of Filipinos there in the last two years.

Trafficking of Pinoys to UAE alarms RP officials – Philippine officials in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are alarmed over a marked rise in trafficking of Filipinos there in the last two years.

Woods’ time-out to hurt Tiger Inc. – When Tiger Woods’ break from golf ends, he’s unlikely to regain his crown as one of the world’s most valuable pitchmen, even if he gets back to winning tournaments and

GMA News.tv Business

BSP, PDIC approve P5-B fund for white knights – The Monetary Board and Philippine Deposit Insurance Corp. (PDIC) board have approved a program that seeks to strengthen capital-deficient rural banks through a

EU seeks judicial proceedings in liquor tax dispute with RP – The European Union (EU) will pursue its case against the Philippines” allegedly discriminatory taxation of imported liquor, it said in a statement.

EU seeks proceedings in liquor dispute with RP – The European Union (EU) will pursue its case against the Philippines” allegedly discriminatory taxation of imported liquor, it said in a statement.

Globe to remain strong despite industry slowdown – S&P; – Standard & Poor”s Ratings Services expects Globe Telecom, Inc. to remain a strong contender in the Philippine mobile telecommunications market, even as the industry’s

Megaworld to spend P3B on North Boni property in two years – The property arm of the Alliance Global Group, Inc. will spend billions of pesos to develop the North Bonifacio property in Taguig City until 2011.

GMA News.tv Nation

Arroyo returns to St Luke”s after security meet on lifting of martial law – President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo returned to St. Luke”s Medical Center in Quezon City after presiding over the National Security Council meeting on Saturday.

Conspiracy warning helped Arroyo decide vs martial law – Miriam – By baring a “conspiracy” among government officials to extend martial law beyond Maguindanao, Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago believes that she had played an important

Devanadera: Lifting martial law not meant to preempt Congress, SC – Malacañang has belied speculations the lifting of martial law over Maguindanao was meant to preempt Congress and the Supreme Court, which are tackling moves to

DOJ: Lifting of martial law won’t affect rebellion charges vs. Ampatuans – The DOJ has assured the public that the lifting of martial law in Maguindanao would not affect in any way the rebellion charges filed against members of the Ampatuan

Early lifting of martial law proves there’s no conspiracy – DILG chief – With the lifting of martial law in Maguindanao, suspicions that government officials are conspiring to place the entire country under military rule should finally be

High court hard-pressed for landmark ruling on martial law – The Supreme Court is under pressure to rule on the validity of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo”s declaration of martial law in Maguindanao, which has since been

LTFRB, Coast Guard prepare for Christmas exodus – Anticipating the yearly Christmas exodus to the provinces, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board and the Philippine Coast Guard have taken special

‘Maguindanao situation back to normal Monday’ – Malacañang expects normalcy to start returning to the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao this Monday, when its acting governor goes to its capital of Cotabato

Martial law lifting welcomed, but Arroyo not off the hook – The move of the administration to lift the imposition of martial law in Maguindanao was welcomed on Saturday, but not necessarily praised by critics who called for an

Palace expects ARMM situation to normalize Monday – Malacañang expects normalcy to start returning to the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao this Monday, when its acting governor goes to its capital of Cotabato

Protest action set vs Comelec decision on Padaca – Youth leaders, politicians, and ordinary citizens supporting Grace Padaca will hold a noise barrage to protest the decision of the Commission on Elections’ (Comelec)

Remonde: Palace had 1-week timetable for martial law – Now it can be told: Malacañang had a one-week timetable for the imposition of martial law over Maguindanao province, in the wake of last month”s massacre and a

Troops search for drugs in Ampatuan homes as time runs out – With just a few hours left before martial law is lifted, military troops in Maguindanao are now rushing to look for a new target – illegal drugs – in addition to

GMA News.tv Regional

2 killed, 31 escape as suspected militants storm Basilan jail – A police report said dozens of suspected Islamic militants stormed a jail in the volatile southern Philippines, freeing 31 inmates in a predawn Sunday attack that

Authorities ask help from tribal leaders on Agusan Sur hostage row – Authorities in Agusan del Sur province have sought the help of tribal leaders in resolving a hostage crisis that began Thursday in Prosperidad town.

Defense chief to visit Basilan amid calls for martial law there – Amid calls for martial law and additional government troops there, Defense Secretary Norberto Gonzales Jr. will visit Basilan on Sunday to assess the situation in the

Govt rushes drug search in Ampatuan homes – With just a few hours left before martial law is lifted, military troops in Maguindanao are now rushing to look for a new target – illegal drugs – in addition to

Gunmen release 42 remaining hostages in Agusan del Sur – (Updated 7:21 p.m.) The four-day hostage crisis in Agusan del Sur ended on a happy note Sunday after gunmen, who are members of a tribal group, released the more than 40

MILF OKs IMT probe on “rogue” commanders – The International Monitoring Team (IMT) overseeing a ceasefire between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) will investigate the three rebel

Police official: All 42 hostages in Agusan Sur to be released Sunday – The 42 people still held captive in Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur would be released on Sunday, a ranking police official said.

Predawn fire hits Batangas shopping center – Fire of still undetermined origin hit a shopping center in Batangas province before dawn Sunday.

Inquirer (Metro)

Caloocan policeman killed by colleague – A Quezon City police officer gunned down a fellow lawman and injured a security guard in Caloocan City yesterday morning.

CITIZENS CALL – ARE buses allowed to park for more than 15 minutes and honk their horns on Boni-Edsa?

Detained military officers figure in scuffle – A bemedalled Marine Colonel and an Army officer detained in connection with the Marine standoff in 2006 were set to file criminal charges against each other after they

Did you know – TAGUIG is bounded by Pateros and Pasig to the north, Taytay to the east, Muntinlupa to the South, and Parañaque, Makati and Pasay to the West. Taguig was declared a

Foundation shares joys of holidays with street kids – A group of nuns made sure over the weekend that the spirit of Christmas this year would be felt by poor children who were also victims of abuse, neglect and the recent

MetroBriefs – A car thief who was shot dead by the owner of a vehicle he and his cohort had just stolen was a former barangay councilor in Bulacan province.

Inquirer (Nation)

Abductors demand down payment – Suspected members of the Abu Sayyaf bandit group who kidnapped Basilan State College vice president Dr. Orlando Fajardo have demanded an initial P100,000 from his

Elections beat to sound of familiar tunes – It’s beginning to sound a lot like the election campaign period: From Sen. Noynoy Aquino’s melodramatic “Hindi Ka Nag-iisa,” sung by Regine Velasquez to Bro. Eddie

Filipinos fuel oil-rich Emirates’ progress, dreams – ABU DHABI—When you arrive at this oil-rich nation’s swanky airports, look up at the massive glass skyscrapers and walk into luxury hotels, you won’t be mistaken if you

Gunmen agree to free all Agusan del Sur hostages – GUNMEN still holding 46 hostages in Agusan del Sur have agreed to free all the captives they have been holding the past two days and surrender to police, a government

Pacquiao throws 1st punch in race – World boxing champion Manny Pacquiao has thrown the first punch against his rival for the congressional seat of the lone district of Sarangani in the 2010 elections.

Padaca’s followers to protest at Comelec – SUPPORTERS of Isabela Gov. Grace Padaca will protest the Commission on Elections decision proclaiming ex-governor Benjamin Dy as the winner in the 2007 polls.

Read-Along: How do you read to deaf children? – HOW do you read a story to deaf children? Same as regular kids. Use lots of facial expressions and make loud movements.

Religious leaders seek audit of Ampatuans’ assets – A CONSULTATIVE ASSEMBLY OF Mindanao-based religious leaders and academicians has urged the government to conduct a comprehensive audit of the assets of the Ampatuan

RP Church gives Fr. Reuter its highest honor – Fr. James Reuter, a Catholic mass media icon, has received the Philippine Catholic Church’s highest service award for his work among the youth.

Singapore importing RP art, culture wholesale – A STORY is told that, during a workshop of Asian cultural representatives in Berlin in the mid-1980s.

Tiger confesses his ‘infidelity;’ goes on ‘indefinite break’ – LOS ANGELES—In a stunning decision, golf superstar Tiger Woods announced on Friday he was putting his game on the backburner to try and save his marriage, as he admitted

Inquirer (Regions)

Abra youths lead campaign for peaceful polls – Abra, a province known for political violence during elections, celebrated its second annual “Week of Peace” where elders, church leaders and politicians engaged in a

Bohol traders hit PASG inspection – Bohol businessmen are criticizing the disruption and delays in the transport of their cargoes caused by a group claiming to be agents of the Presidential Anti-Smuggling

COA: P2.4B went to Tesda but jobs few – A government job training agency received at least P2.4 billion from 2006-2008, but achieved very little in generating employment, the Commission on Audit (COA) said in

DENR tells Pulag tribes: Help save mossy forest – Determined to save Mt. Pulag’s mossy forests and threatened species from further destruction, environment officials visited one of the coldest upland villages here on

Depositors endure long wait for money return – Depositors of one of the banks owned by the Legacy Group, which were taken over by the Philippine Deposit Insurance Corp. (PDIC), protested the long wait they have to

Media man’s widow conned by ‘Tulfo’ – The widow of one of 30 journalists murdered in Maguindanao fell victim to a con man, who introduced himself as Erwin Tulfo, and took off with P10,000 of her money.

Rasuls: Gibo gave best response to Maguindanao slays – Among the presidential candidates, only former Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro handled the Maguindanao crisis well.

When warlords rule, clash in Maguindanao – Three years before the gruesome killings of 57 people, including at least 30 journalists, in Ampatuan town in Maguindanao, there was no bad blood between the Mangudadatu

Manila Bulletin

Main News – PAGASA: warm air temporary – The relatively warmer air temperature felt the past few days in Luzon is only temporary, meteorologists of the state-run Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and

Main News – 2,000 peace advocates assemble at Manila Hotel – Close to 2,000 local and foreign peace advocates from 28 countries have convened starting Dec. 10 at the historic Manila Hotel for the Global Peace Convention.

Main News – Agusan hostage drama enters fifth day – Families in the New Maasin area in Barangay San Martin are badly affected as the hostage crisis in the capital town of Prosperidad in Agusan del Sur show no clear signs

Main News – Altercation leads to cop’s death – A verbal altercation led Sunday to a shootout between two policemen, leaving one of them dead and two other persons wounded in Caloocan City.

Main News – Approval of P1.5-trillion budget pushed – Malacañang is pushing for the immediate approval of 2010 P1.5-trillion national budget before Congress goes on a one-month recess.

Main News – Arroyo is okay, say St. Luke’s doctors – President Arroyo is in the pink of health, following her two-day regular medical check-up over the weekend at the St. Luke’s Medical Center in Quezon City, Malacañang

Main News – Bid made to give more teeth to QC no-smoking regulations – A Quezon City councilor proposed the creation of a task force that will also conduct educational awareness campaigns, information dissemination schemes and

Main News – Caloocan sets up Christmas bazaar – The city government of Caloocan has authorized the setting up of a Christmas bazaar in front of the City Hall along where affordable items will be sold.

Main News – Cantal airs view on martial rule – What will happen to the Ampatuans?

Main News – Comelec okays OPO party-list – The Comelec has approved the petition for registration of Pamilyang Overseas Filipino Workers-Small and Medium Enterpreneurs Network Foundation, Inc. (OPO) as a sectoral

Main News – Comelec: New law not needed in ARMM polls – The Comelec does not need a new law to hold the elections in the ARMM at least one month in advance of the scheduled May 10, 2010 fully automated polls nationwide,

Main News – Dy hits attempts to mislead public – Veteran Isabela Rep. Faustino Dy III Sunday criticized alleged attempts by “influential people” to mislead the public into rejecting the rule of law in connection with

Main News – Espino cites automation – The provincial government here still believed that automated election will be successful with the cooperation and the help of Filipinos.

Main News – Gov’t jobs program hires 370,000 – National Anti-Poverty Commission Secretary Domingo F. Panganiban Sunday revealed that 370,000 people have been hired under the Comprehensive Livelihood and Emergency

Main News – Hostage crisis ends; group to free victims – The head of the Ondo Perez Group has finally agreed to release the 46 remaining hostage victims and submit themselves to the conditions set by the local crisis

Main News – Ignore kids who beg for alms, says MMDA – The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority has discouraged motorists from entertaining children who brave the streets for alms.

Main News – Imelda seeks Ilocos congressional seat – Former First Lady Imelda Marcos filed her certificate of candidacy for the congressional seat in the second district of Ilocos Norte.

Main News – Jailbreak in Basilan – A jail guard and a rebel were killed when more than 100 suspected Muslim militants stormed the Basilan provincial jail in Isabela City and freed 31 hardened criminals.

Main News – Lapid works silently behind the cameras – Sen. Manuel “Lito” M. Lapid owes his success to the movie cameras that rolled out scenes of his heroism, but in the Senate he has done his work silently behind the

Main News – Law group asked to defend ‘rights’ – Commission on Human Rights (CHR) Chairwoman Leila M. de Lima has urged the Alternative Law Groups (ALG) to continue defending human rights during its 20th anniversary

Main News – Local governments to provide BIR with list of businesses – Treasurers and assessors of various local government units have agreed to furnish the BIR with a list of businesses and professionals operating in their respective areas

Main News – Loren: Free hostages – Sen. Loren Legarda Sunday blamed “lack of respect for the law due to the climate impunity” for the hostage of 48 civilians by gunmen in Agusan del Sur.

Main News – LP continues to fight for clean gov’t – Roxas – “The Liberal Party (LP) continues to fight for a clean and honest government that the Filipino people deserve,” Sen. Manuel “Mar’’ A. Roxas II, LP president and official

Main News – Man fatally stabs mom’s live-in partner – Fatherly advice was met with a violent reaction, as a 20-year-old suspect stabbed dead his mother’s live-in partner in Quezon City the other night.

Main News – Manila to inaugurate 5th city-run hospital – Manila will inaugurate its fifth city-run hospital Tuesday called the Jose Abad Santos Mother and Child Hospital located in the Third District.

Main News – Martial law lifting won’t affect AFP operations – The Armed Forces of the Philippines said unauthorized armed groups in Maguindanao still pose a serious threat but the lifting of martial law will not affect ongoing

Main News – Meteor shower lights up skies Monday night – A galactic kind of fireworks—the Geminids meteor shower – will light up the sky Monday night, the state-run Philippine Atmospheric, PAGASA said Sunday.

Main News – MILF agrees on probe of Kato, Bravo – The MILF under the leadership of Chairman Al-Murad Ebrahim has agreed to have the revived International Monitoring Team (IMT) investigate the roles of three MILF

Main News – Militants attack Philippine jail, 31 inmates freed – Dozens of suspected Islamic militants knocked down a concrete wall and barged into a jail in the volatile southern Philippines on Sunday, freeing 31 inmates, officials

Main News – NCRPO to conduct e-mail seminars – The National Capital Region Police Office announced that they will be conducting seminars to police investigators from different police districts as well as police

Main News – New protocol on delivering babies issued – The Department of Health (DoH) released recently an administrative order mandating the application of a new protocol on delivering babies that could bring a sharp

Main News – Palace assures workers on bonus – Malacañang Sunday assured that the P7 billion allocated for the additional Christmas bonus of more than one million government workers will be disposed before December

Main News – Party-list groups, NGOs defend Comelec action – Party-list groups and non-government organizations joined forces Sunday in defending the actions of the Second Division of the Comelec on poll protests filed against

Main News – Peace-builders to visit Mindanao Monday – More than 200 foreign delegates involved in peace-building activities around the world will visit the conflict-affected areas in Mindanao Monday to make an assessment on

Main News – QC cop hurt in shootout in apparent traffic altercation – An off-duty policeman of the Quezon City Police District was shot and hurt following a traffic altercation with two men one of whom introduced himself also as police

Main News – QC launches drive against illegal guns – Alarmed by the growing criminality in Quezon City, local authorities have asked the city’s police to conduct a massive crackdown on illegal home-made guns in Barangay

Main News – Slain carnap suspect a former ‘kagawad’ – A suspected carnapper who was killed during a carjacking incident in Quezon City last week was found Sunday to be a former kagawad who was believed forced into becoming

Main News – Two jailed for illegal dumping in San Juan – Two men landed in jail last Saturday after they were caught in the act of dumping waste in a street in San Juan City, police said Sunday.

Main News – Villar inches closer in latest SWS poll – Senator Manuel “Manny” Villar is inching closer on frontrunner Sen. Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III, according to the latest survey of the Social Weather Stations.

Opinion – A few tips on credit cards – Speaking Out

Opinion – GMA, follow FVR! – Business Beat

Opinion – Household toxins – Page Eleven

Opinion – Legal – Weighing In

Opinion – Philippine National Red Cross 28th Biennial National Convention at the historic landmark Manila Hotel December 14-16, 2009 – Editorial

Opinion – St. John of the Cross – Tomorrow, Dec. 14, we remember the life and works of St. John of the Cross, founder of the Discalced Carmelites.

Opinion – Super-cali-fragilistic… Sesquicentennial – Below the Line

Opinion – The authority of Jesus questioned – Reflections

Regional – AFP, JSOTF-P open new road in isolated villages of Sulu – The Armed Forces of the Philippines and Joint Special Operations Task Force-Philippines has recently inaugurated a new road in Talipao, Sulu, JSOTF-P public affairs head

Regional – Cebu furniture industry to create R&D links – The Cebu Furniture Industries Foundation Inc. (CFIF) is set to create a “scientific network of collaborators” to link local research and development with the needs of

Regional – Climate change project to be tested in Benguet – The provinces of Benguet and Ifugao will be the pilot-testing areas of a Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)-funded climate change project.

Regional – Disbandment of armed groups urged in Abra – Abra is one of the 73 areas identified by the PNP to be one of the areas of concern following the bloody record of the province during election period in the previous

Regional – Four new projects bared by traders for 2010 – A local chamber organization has recently launched four additional projects, aiming to help nurture the booming business environment in Cebu.

Regional – Gov’t allots P380 million for 4 roads – The national government earmarked at least P380 million for the rehabilitation, upgrading and improvement of four major secondary national arterial roads in this

Regional – Landslide buries miners in Dinagat – A miner was killed when a landslide occurred in a chromites area at Sitio Campayas in Barangay Navarro, Tubajon town, Dinagat Islands Province.

Regional – Magat dam gets safety, health certification – SN Aboitiz Power-Magat’s Occupational Safety and Health Management System received the Confirmation of Certification to the standard set in the Occupational Health and

Regional – Revival of Panay’s railway transport system eyed – The Aklan Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) is supporting the revival of operations of the Panay railway system to spur tourism and development in the whole island of Panay.

Regional – Transport costs blamed for higher Visayas fuel prices – Top management executives of major oil companies is attributing higher fuel prices in the Visayas to transport costs.

Regional – US envoy to inaugurate P73-M Jolo water system – Outgoing US Ambassador Kristie A. Kenney is set to inaugurate and turn over Monday, the P73.1 million upgraded water system project of the Jolo Mainland Water District

Regional – Zambo to get 200,000 bags of gov’t rice – About 200,000 bags of new government rice are expected to be unloaded in this city next week to boost the current inventory supply of the National Food Authority office

Manila Times – Business

Ayala Land tapped for Subic masterplan – BY BEN ARNOLD O. DE VERA REPORTER STATE-RUN Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) said it has tapped Ayala Land Inc. (ALI) to create a master plan for a central

BSP matches PDIC fund for rural bank mergers – THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is putting up a fund to assist banks or investors willing to acquire troubled rural lenders.

BSP relaxes forex rules – BY MARICEL E. BURGONIO SENIOR REPORTER THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) has allowed trust units of banks and other financial institutions to offer foreign

Megaworld sets aside money for North Bonifacio – MEGAWORLD Corp. said it has set aside money for the development of its North Bonifacio project until 2011.

Meralco may hike capital expenditures – MANILA Electric Co. (Meralco) said it would have to increase its capital spending next year following the Energy Regulatory Commission’s (ERC) order to bring down the

NTC orders telcos to offer Christmas promos – BY DARWIN G. AMOJELAR SENIOR REPORTER THE National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) has denied the request of the country’s two biggest industry players to

PLDT keeps profit forecast despite holiday spending – HONG KONG: Philippine Long Distance Telephone Co. (PLDT) has kept its profit guidance this year despite the anticipated strength in consumer spending during the

Public sector debt up at end-March – THE size of the Philippines’ outstanding public sector debt at end-March rose in proportion to the country’s economic output, according to the Department of Finance.

Roller-coaster year for financial markets in 2009 – LONDON: The world’s equity, commodity and exchange markets bounced back in 2009 after a vertiginous plunge, but analysts warn 2010 may be full of danger, with doubts

Manila Times – Nation

Deal with high oil prices now or suffer later, RP warned – The country must confront the challenge of energy security and prices now or suffer for its negligence in the near future, according to a former Energy secretary and

High Court ruling needed despite martial law lifting – Even if martial law declared in southern Philippines was lifted by President Gloria Arroyo, the Supreme Court still would have to render a decision on the legality or

Illegitimate child can use father’s surname – BY PERSIDA ACOSTA Dear PAO, I am eight months pregnant and unmarried. My parents want to use my surname for my baby since I am not yet married to the father of my child.

Lawyers want ex-BIR chief’s ‘unexplained wealth’ confiscated – Government prosecutors have asked the Sandiganbayan to seize in favor of the government all bank deposits and real property of former Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR)

RP, Jordan to sign agreement on labor cooperation – Philippine and Jordanian labor officials will soon sign an agreement that seeks to address issues arising from the employment of overseas Filipino workers in Jordan.

Manila Times – Opinion

Malacañang ‘asset’? – BY DAN MARIANO Acolumnist in another paper recently described anyone in the press who does not agree with his opposition to martial law in Maguindanao as “media assets”

Noynoy top of the pols on Google – OPEN NOTEBOOK BY RANDOM JOTTINGS IF the 2010 presidential election was to be determined by hits on Google then Liberal Party standard bearer—and a late entry to the

RP no longer a low-income country. Wow! – Your item “Philippines no longer a low-income country” on Friday December 11 depressed me.

To sell or to borrow – ABATTING average of one out of 30 normally leads to an athlete’s fall from grace, or a CEO’s sacking. But the Department of Finance’s (DOF) dismal performance on the

Manila Times – Regions

Acting governor of ARMM assumes office, meets Cabinet – COTABATO CITY: The newly installed acting governor of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) will convene today the ARMM Cabinet to work out the resumption of

Gunmen spring 31 Abu Sayyaf militants, criminals – BY AL JACINTO CORRESPONDENT ZAMBOANGA CITY: More than 100 gunmen stormed the Basilan provincial jail in southern Philippines before dawn on Sunday and freed at least 31

Olongapo police confiscate P120,000-worth of ‘shabu’ – OLONGAPO CITY: Police on Saturday arrested a suspected drug pusher and confiscated some P120,000 worth of suspected shabu in Barangay Calapandayan, Subic, Zambales.

Tiaong, Quezon mayor survives assassination attempt – THE mayor of Tiaong, Quezon Province on Sunday morning survived an assassination attempt while talking to his townmates infront of the town’s Catholic Church, the

Philippine Star – Headlines

ARMM cabinet convenes today – Acting Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Gov. Ansarudin Adiong will convene the ARMM cabinet today to discuss the resumption of regional governance, which was

Basilan jail warden Jumaril Sali stands beside workers covering a hole that was destroyed during an attack staged by suspected MILF members at the Basilan provincial jail yesterday. AP – Suspected Islamic militants knocked down a concrete wall and raided the Basilan provincial jail early yesterday, freeing 31 detainees in a daring attack that left three

Devanadera maintains martial law valid – Justice Secretary Agnes Devanadera yesterday maintained the declaration of martial law in Maguindanao was valid because of rebellion in the province.

GMA discharged from St. Luke’s – President Arroyo was quietly discharged yesterday from the St. Luke’s Medical Center (SLMC) in Quezon City after a two-night stay for what Palace officials said

Journalism students join Freedom of Information march – Journalism students from various schools in Metro Manila will join the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism (PCIJ) and other multisectoral groups in a march to

Just arrest all killers, secure province – Mangudadatus – The Mangudadatu clan wants nothing else but for authorities to secure Maguindanao and give assurance that all the suspects in the Nov. 23 massacre would be arrested in

Meteor showers peak tonight – If the skies are clear tonight, Filipinos can watch as many as 40 shooting stars per hour, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services

Noynoy’s lead in opinion polls drops, Gibo’s rating surges – The Center – Liberal Party (LP) presidential candidate Sen. Benigno Aquino III’s lead in opinion polls has “significantly dropped” to single-digit levels while

P20-million ransom sought for college vice president – Suspected Abu Sayyaf extremists demanded P20 million in ransom for the release of a school official kidnapped last Thursday.

PNP allots P25-million reward for arrest of Maguindanao massacre suspects – Philippine National Police chief Director General Jesus Verzosa has allotted at least P25 million as rewards for the arrest of perpetrators of the Maguindanao massacre.

Politicians, businessmen disappointed over early lifting of martial law – A cross section of Central Mindanao society is disappointed with the lifting of martial law in Maguindanao.

‘Rebellion quelled, objectives achieved’ – The rebellion that was allegedly staged by some local leaders of the Ampatuan clan in Maguindanao has been quelled and it is unlikely that the security situation in the

Soldiers escort freed hostages on a military vehicle shortly after their release in Prosperidad, Agusan del Sur yesterday. AP – Tribal gunmen led by Ondo Perez released yesterday all 42 hostages they had been holding for four days in a mountainous area of Agusan del Sur, provincial Vice Gov.

Supreme Court affirms Palace ban on appeals vs DOJ resolutions – The Supreme Court (SC) has upheld a memorandum banning appeals before the Office of the President of orders and resolutions of the Department of Justice on cases not

Supreme Court asked to rule on martial law proclamation – To prevent its repeat and provide guidance to the nation, the Supreme Court was asked yesterday to rule on the constitutionality of Proclamation 1959 that imposed

Philippine Star – Metro

Caloocan, Parañaque hold Christmas fairs – Christmas fairs have been set up along Redemptorist Road in Baclaran, Parañaque City and in front of the Caloocan City Hall, officials said yesterday.

Cop kills cop in Caloocan street brawl – An off-duty police officer was shot dead when he reportedly intervened in a street melee involving another policeman early morning yesterday in Caloocan City.

NPO faces blacklisting by LTO, procurement board – The National Printing Office (NPO) is facing the possibility of getting shut out of Land Transportation Office (LTO) printing contracts and being blacklisted by the

Rifle in abandoned van issued to PNP – One of two high-powered firearms found in a Pajero van abandoned in Ermita, Manila Monday night was issued by the Philippine National Police, according to a Manila

Senior Superintendent Napoleon Cuaton (seated) holds sachets of shabu taken from Rolando Pono’s improvised belt, as indicated by Superintendent Raniel Valones, while Oscar Calingacion (left) points to two bags of shabu found in his underwear by airport personnel yesterday. Rudy Santos – Police officers at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Centennial terminal confiscated more than 400 grams of shabu from two passengers, officials said

Slain carjacking suspect tagged in 10 other heists – A carjacking suspect killed in a failed attempt to commandeer a businessman’s sport utility vehicle in Quezon City last week has been tagged in 10 similar cases in

Valenzuela dad scores Maynilad contractors for ’sloppy’ road repair – A Valenzuela City councilor said over the weekend that contractors hired by Maynilad Water and Services, Inc. have allegedly been cutting corners and making a

Philippine Star – Nation

Banahaw, San Cristobal declared protected areas – President Arroyo has signed into law the bill establishing Mounts Banahaw in Laguna and San Cristobal in Quezon as protected areas to prevent their further destruction.

Padaca seeks Isabela cop chief’s relief anew – For the nth time, Isabela Gov. Grace Padaca called on the Philippine National Police (PNP) for the relief of Superintendent Jimmy Rivera as provincial police director

Quezon mayor survives slay try – The last-term mayor of Tiaong town in Quezon survived an attempt on his life at the parking lot of a church yesterday morning, police said.

Respect legal process, Dys ask supporters – Isabela’s Dy family asked its supporters yesterday to await the decision of the Commission on Elections (Comelec) on the appeal of Gov. Grace Padaca for it to

Philippine Star – Opinion

EDITORIAL – Rule on it – Faced with criticism even from some of her Senate allies, President Arroyo lifted martial law the other day in Maguindanao.

Can we trust this Comelec? – When nominated Comelec chairman in Jan. 2008 a telling photograph of Jose Melo spread on the Net.

In the land of Moro-moro – Moro-moro is a play that became popular in the Philippines during the Spanish colonial period where the Moros were portrayed as perpetual villains who always lost to

No nation can be great without national pride – Last week, the Commission on Election annulled the proclamation of Isabela Governor Grace Padaca in favor of Benjamin Dy who had protested the results of the 2007

Valid fears – Even if Malacañang has lifted martial law in Maguindanao, the warning is still valid and well grounded that the next time around, it may be expanded to cover even

What they want – With martial law lifted in Maguindanao, what residents want, according to a member of the Mangudadatu clan, are security and the arrest of those behind the massacre.

Paru-parong Bukid Nature Conservation Center formally opened its gates to the public yesterday, Dec. 13, 2009.

With the intermittent shower driving me back to seek shelter at least three times, I was barely able to get decent photos.

Here are samplers taken during yesterday’s soft opening…

Paru-parong Bukid Nature Conservation Center offers the family a fun-filled day. Activities include fishing, kayaking in a mangrove area, fun with butterflies inside a butterfly farm, strolling around the lush gardens in a mini-forest like scenario and simply communing with nature.

Paru-parong Bukid Center is located in Brgy. Lukay, Babatngon, Leyte, just a few kilometers further up from Rafael’s Farm.

View more photos and slideshow: http://gerryruiz.callezaragosa.com/p39004513

Rice, a cereal grain, is the most important staple food in most countries of Southeast Asia, most specially in the Philippines.

What many do not know is it’s one important staple food not only in the region but for a large part of the world’s human population.

Centuries of trade and exportation have made it commonplace in many cultures worldwide. It is the grain with the second highest worldwide production, after maize or corn which is also cultivated for livestock feed.

Here’s rice or palay harvest time somewhere between Jaro and Sta. Fe, Leyte.

• View full gallery: http://gerryruiz.callezaragosa.com/p112062618
• View slideshow: http://gerryruiz.callezaragosa.com/p112062618/slideshow

I never saw it happening this fast. I meant too soon.

It was just like the start of the “ber” months and as early as in October TV networks were noticeably going the extra mile with choral groups dishing out Christmas songs already in their morning shows.

And now, it’s beginning to look a tad like Christmas. Whew, as the kids say, we are “all in denial.”

Saturday, December 5, 2009 found us at Robinson’s Place Tacloban where Ms. Ludette was made chairperson of the board of judges of a Parol-Making Contest.

Spearheaded by Tacloban City Councilor Cristina Gonzales-Romualdez, the contest had eight finalists from a number of entries submitted by participants limited to residents of Tacloban City. The parols (Christmas lanterns) were intricately designed using local, indigenous materials which the contest guidelines highly encouraged. Impressive.

Here’s the scene at the new mall in Tacloban City last Saturday…

Photo above, the eight finalist lanterns are displayed before the panel of judges.

The winners…

Above, 3rd Place (P2,000 prize): Entry by Ricky Partoza

2nd Place (P4,000 prize): Ronnel Peñaranda of Brgy. 103 – Palanog, Tacloban City

1st Place (P6,000 prize): Evelyn Galanza of Brgy. 35-A, Pampango, Tacloban City

Councilor Cristina Gonzales-Romualdez

• View more photos >>> http://gerryruiz.callezaragosa.com/p96342482
• View slideshow >>> http://gerryruiz.callezaragosa.com/p96342482/slideshow

The province of Maguindanao has been a prized political cup for the Arroyo administration that in great appreciation for its astounding electoral results delivered during the 2004 presidential and 2007 senatorial elections, it tended to shower the area with favors that will become the envy of other political bailiwicks.

It wanted to create an ideal symbol of what a political ally is – productive, supportive, loyal, reliable, and subservient.

Yet, in the process of rewarding, the administration miscalculated, for what they have created instead are political collaborators with twisted minds and the administration’s patronage only emboldened them to do evil deeds, such as murder, to perpetuate their own political empire and power.

Such are the Ampatuans of Maguindanao, a close and special political ally turned monster, who ambushed, abducted, molested, mutilated and massacred members of the Mangudadatu family, including lawyers and journalists who were on their way to the provincial capital of Shariff Aguak to witness the filing of the candidacy of a Mangudadatu running for governor against an Ampatuan.

Now, in the aftermath, and on allegations by government that the Ampatuans and their heavily armed supporters are threatening a rebellious uprising against the government, if and when the Ampatuan patriarch was taken into custody, proclamation 1959 was declared imposing martial law in Maguindanao.

The question being debated now around the country is: Was there a need of putting Maguindanao province under martial law?

Sec. Agnes Devanadera said there is ample evidence that the Ampatuans have usurped the power of government and that this could qualify as an act of rebellion.

The government only alleges that the Ampatuans had illegally amassed an array of military hardware that would likely be used if a rebellion ensues.

How can a threatened rebellion be likened to an actual rebellion, to justify the imposition of martial law, when it hasn’t even happened yet?

Couldn’t the declaration of the state of emergency alone in Maguindanao be enough to suppress the planned rebellion if carried out willingly, diligently and strongly by the police and other security agencies of government?

The connotation of martial law is equally so criminal, immoral, and high-handed that one can’t help but question its legality and suitability at this point.

I don’t see government showing strength in imposing martial law in Maguindanao. Neither do I see it as heroic in defense of our country and its constitution.

What I see instead is a manifestation of weakness and fear on the part of government in declaring martial law as a solution to a police problem.

We all know how powerful government is and what power the head of state as commander-in-chief has under her disposal.

We also know and have identified the endemic problem in some parts of Mindanao where the Muslim landlords and warlords think and believe they are above the laws of the land and commit crimes with impunity because they, themselves, are the law.

The truth is that we are not wanting in laws governing crimes, wherever you are in the Philippines and whatever religious affiliation or ideological leanings you have.

What must be remembered is that we are all Filipinos and that the laws this country have are applicable to all, whether you live in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.

Our laws have not been enacted to discriminate Christian and Muslim transgressors.

But it must be implemented strictly, straightly, and impartially.

This is where the strength in government can be seen.

Sadly, it wasn’t enforced the way it should be.

(preceding story: http://letsgopinas.wordpress.com/2009/11/14/the-vanguard-island-bantayan-proper/)

Island gatekeeper. You then haggle with your guide to bring you to your final destination – Madridejos, specifically at the Kota Park. This is where you get to see vestiges of fortifications that had been all around the island during the Spanish Era.

The island during the 17^th century had several mortal and coral watchtowers and two fort settlements which were protecting other neighboring islands such as the whole Cebu Island, Leyte, Masbate and even other islands in Mindanao from seaborne Moros hence the appellation  “Bantayan” (to guard).

But you need to wait for the sunset at its coastal line to appreciate the incredible beauty of the area. There you get to make out silhouettes of people as they pick some crablets for dinner from rockstones where the seawater has receded. It can be a powerful picture of the quintessential coastal life. And the long newly constructed way to its viewdeck just enhances the drama of the beach.

Daing for pasalubong. As you end your travel, with very inexpensive daing na danggit (dried fish) just bought from the market at Bantayan Proper as homecoming treat, and as the sea changes its hue from aquamarine of the shallow waters to blue cobalt of the deep ocean while taking a ferry out of the island, then you realize that Bantayan is only a memory that will linger for many months to come.

Worried about building a house in Bacolod or Iloilo?

Ok, so you bought your own piece of real estate or lot in some of the best residential subdivisions in Bacolod & Iloilo cities.  You may have already visualized and even dreamed living in that community, trying out the facilities and amenities, talking short walks and chatting with your friendly neighbors, entertaining guests & visitors in your living room or  catching up on the hottest movies in your designated home theater.  However, before those visions become reality, some real work has to be done first: building your home.

For many lot owners, building a home from ground up can be one of the most exciting and yet most stressful experiences ever. Few people realize the amount of legwork and financial movements are involved in getting their dream house up and about. Activities such as, hiring an architect to create the house plans, selecting a reliable and trustworthy builder or contractor to make the proper cost estimates & with the track record for delivering & completing the job on time and on budget, tons of paper work from building permits to electrical connections, etc. And we haven’t even started talking about the financing requirements either from the bank or government institutions like HMDF/Pag-IBIG.

The loads of hassles involved can be very daunting even for lot owners who are locally based, how much for lot owners or future homeowners working hard abroad? If you are a pinoy lot owner based say, in the Middle East, the UK, the US or just about anywhere, you may be worried about who is going to supervise and check out if your hard earned money is spent properly and the specifications followed to the letter. People can’t blame you if you are concerned about construction budgets running amok. What seemed to be a 3Million House budgeted house, you end coughing up 4Million or even more! If this happens, your dream to build your own house can certainly end up looking like a nightmare.

Fortunately, there are companies out there who are out to take away the hassles involved in home building, especially for those who are based outside the Philippines. One of these companies, Avanti, took care of the needs of my client who wanted to build a house on their lot in Manville Royale Subdivision, located in Tangub, Bacolod City.

It went like this: my client, a pinoy couple based in the Texas, USA, wanted to purchase a lot in Manville and build their own house. The thing is, they are based most of the time abroad and cannot attend to the details of the construction. For Avanti-Sysco, this wasn’t a problem at all. In fact, this is where they are very good at. They were able to build the house according to specifications, took care of the documentations & deliver the unit on time and on budget. All my client did was to submit all the documentary requirements, sign all the documents/contracts & put up the required payments according to an agreed schedule.

The process is fairly simple. Avanti can help future homebuyers in 2 ways. First, you can select among the 7 house models they are offering all with fixed prices (even less if you avail of the discounts), so no worry about costs ballooning during the construction stage as some homeowners have experienced. If you have some questions or need modifications to the unit, Avanti is open to all that as long as it is technically feasible. Now, if you do not like their units or maybe you have your own house plans and specification (as long as it can be built on your lot), Avanti can still take care of things for you.

AVANTI E-brochure

Second, just submit & sign all the required documents. If you are based abroad, there are 2 ways to do this…you can send the documents via courier or you can designate a trusted relative/close friend as your Attorney-In-Fact (AIF) via a Special Power of Attorney, to sign in your behalf. An AIF is just a representative and will just sign the documents in your stead as the house and property are all in your name.

Third, select your financing option. Financing!? Yes, Avanti gives home buyers the option to pay either through cash basis (with discount!!), progress billing (20% down upon signing, 30% upon 30% completion, 30% upon 60% completion & 20% balance upon turn over of unit) and  finally, bank or HMDF/Pag-IBIG financing…down payment + approved loanable amount by bank or pag-ibig.

Once your all documents, requirements as well as the 20% down payment is paid, house construction is then immediately scheduled. Normally, actual construction operations on the lot or site will begin in 30-45 days from date of the completion of paperwork and down payment. Why is that?! Well, there is always the issue of construction & building permits which has to be processed right away and this takes some time (you know how it is here).

With Avanti’s  3 step process, home buyers can now just sit back and relax now that all the hassles are being taken cared of. And what’s more, Avanti will give buyers periodic reports, updates via email plus pictures on how your house is shaping up during the construction stage. You may call these communications as blow-by-blow account of how your dream home being built from ground up.

For now, Avanti is serving clients who have existing lots in subdivisions located around Bacolod and Iloilo, and soon in Cebu. For Negros Occidental, Avanti can build in Manville Royale,Bacolod City; Pacific Shores in Talisay Cit; Oasis Subdivision in Mansilingan, Bacolod among many others. For Iloilo, Westwoods, Agustine Grove, Metropolis, Monte Rosa, and several other developments.

Break of dawn on top of the San Juanico Bridge.

Just another daybreak at the famous bridge? Well, not quite it.

Witnessing daybreak from atop the San Juanico Bridge is really something else. The panoramic view the vantage point provides as the initial ray of sunlight breaks through the mountains on the horizon gives a broader sense of scale to one’s earthly existence.

Sunrise of November 29, 2009 atop the San Juanico Bridge. All is quiet and peaceful in the world.

This gets shattered suddenly by the screaming sirens of mobile police escorts. It was signaling the start of the walkathon.

For it was also the 6th Annual San Juanico Bridge Walk, dubbed as “Sumpay Sangkay 2009″ – a walkathon across the  2.16-kilometer graceful bridge from the Samar side to Leyte side.

Some 300 participants, mostly students from UP in the Visayas Tacloban College, Eastern Visayas State University and the Leyte Normal University crossed the bridge as the gentle sunlight lent a golden tinge around the tranquil and picturesque scene.

Spearheaded by the Runggiyan Social Development Foundation and the UP Runggiyan, the annual walk-for-a-cause was held in commemoration of the international 18-day Campaign Against Violence Against Women.

Its sponsors included various government agencies such as the DPWH Regional Office 8, the Provincial Government of Leyte, the City Government of Tacloban and the Regional Inter-Agency Committee Against Trafficking of Persons of Region 8 (RIACAT 8). Other government agencies which participated in the walk were the Commission on Human Rights, DSWD and the Department of Health.

A prayer was said in memory of the women victims of the recent Maguindanao massacre.  Doves bearing the walkers’ inspirational messages of peace and justice for women victims of violence were released to freedom.

I had had my chance at capturing the swift sunrise and the changing of the light. Also snapped a few of the walk-for-a-cause.

I then felt the urge for a hearty breakfast.

• View full gallery: http://gerryruiz.callezaragosa.com/p1007624661
• View slideshow: http://gerryruiz.callezaragosa.com/p1007624661/slideshow

For a long time I had a problem with the terms “macro” & “micro.”

Especially in Economics. Not among my favorite subjects back in college hehe.

In photography, it’s far easier to understand them. That’s simply because the terms “macro” and “micro” are loosely used interchangeably and refer to the same thing: taking extreme close up photos of tiny subjects – tiny objects, insects, bugs or butterflies – using a dedicated true macro lens.

Nowadays, it’s common for most cameras to be able to get close up shots of small subjects. And, as a marketing ploy, camera manufacturers write “macro” in their lenses which can take close up photos.

And therein lies the confusion. For there is such a thing as  “true” and “real” macro lenses. True macro lenses allow one to take photos on a 1:1 ratio and even larger (note that you can fit and shoot the whole San Juanico Bridge and the head of a dragonfly in your camera sensor but the bridge would be extremely compressed while that of the dragonfly would be magnified).

Photos taken by true macro lenses, by design and manufacture, are very much sharper and show the tiniest details of the subject (e.g. cell patterns of the eyes of a bee or dragonfly) compared to those taken by normal lenses.

I do not have a true macro lens (yet! paging Santa!) but some of my lenses allow me to get close, real close up shots

• All photos taken using a Canon EF-S 10-22mm ultrawide(!) lens fitted with an ED-Digital Wide Converter with Macro 0.5X 77mm.

• Taken at the soon-to-open Paru-parong Bukid Conservation Center in Brgy. Lukay, Babatngon, Leyte. Special thanks to Doc Gil & Helly Asoy!

• View the full gallery and slideshow: http://gerryruiz.callezaragosa.com/p414744370

• Update: Additional photos at http://gerryruiz.callezaragosa.com/p795199861

Joey Reyna – yes, the famed photographer of Tacloban City – last week showed us his weekend hideaway at their farm located in Brgy. Tigbao, one of the northern barangays of Tacloban City.

It’s near the approach to San Juanico Bridge on the left side of the highway with a big white signage that screams. “Fresh Buko!” A motorist wouldn’t notice it but perched high up in the hills at the back is a simple yet homey cottage offering a fantastic view of the San Juanico Strait and its famous bridge.

The occasion was the baptismal reception for Jillian Lexy – the latest addition to the budding family of Joey & Lilibeth Reyna. Naturally, members of the Camera Club of Leyte & Samar were there to welcome Jillian Lexy to the Christian world.

Like I said, the place provides one a fresh, fantastic view of San Juanico Bridge!

View the full gallery and slideshow >>> http://gerryruiz.callezaragosa.com/p753624115

Sent off the wifey at the airport this morning and on my way back, I decided to go pass by Brgy San Jose at the area by the bay.

Snapped a few too at the Sagkahan boulevard.

My photos’ exif info say the first shot was taken at 6:55AM Saturday, November 7.

6:55 AM Sat in Tacloban…
12:55 AM Sat in Cairo
1:55AM Sat in Moscow
2:55 AM Sat in Dubai
5:55 AM Sat in Bangkok
6:55 AM Sat in Hong Kong
7:55 AM Sat in Tokyo
9:55 AM Sat in Sydney

2:55 PM Fri in Tijuana, Mexico
2:55 PM Fri in Los Angeles
4:55 PM Fri in Chicago
5:55 PM Fri in Toronto & Montreal
5:55 PM Fri in New York
10:55 PM Fri London
11:55 PM Fri in Paris
12:55 PM Fri in Honolulu

Lovely day ahead!