Babala ng Phivolcs: Lugar ng Bulacan airport project bahain, mapanganib sa pagyanig
Nagbabala ang Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology na ang lokasyon ng panukalang P736-bilyong international airport project sa Bulacan ay bahain at bulnerable sa malakas na pagyanig ng lupa. Sa pagdinig ng Senate public services committee sa airport franchise noong Miyerkules, sinabi ni Phivolcs director Renato Solidum na ang lugar na pagtatayuan ng New Manila […] The post Babala ng Phivolcs: Lugar ng Bulacan airport project bahain, mapanganib sa pagyanig appeared first on Bandera......»»
Mga babala sa Semana Santa para iwas-Budol, Akyat-Bahay, aksidente
SEMANA Santa na at sure na sure kaming ngayon pa lang ay naghananda na ang karamihan sa pinakahihintay na much-needed vacation. Kaya naman bago kayo mag-alisan at magpunta sa iba’t ibang lugar ngayong Holy Week, make sure lang na naplano n’yong mabuti ang mga kailangang gawin para maging maayos, exciting at ligtas ang inyong pagtitika.....»»
Dutch investment to boost Bulacan airport development
Dutch investment to boost Bulacan airport development.....»»
SMC to start Bulacan airport development in 2025
Diversified conglomerate San Miguel Corp. (SMC) targets to start airport development works at its P740-billion international gateway project in Bulacan next year......»»
SMC launches PHL’s first complete biodiversity offset Site in Bulacan
San Miguel Aerocity, Inc. (SMAI), a subsidiary of San Miguel Corporation (SMC), has inaugurated its Saribuhay sa Dampalit project in Barangay Pamarawan, Malolos, Bulacan. This pioneering initiative marks the launch of the Philippines’ first Biodiversity Offset Program (BOP) — part of the company’s nature-based solutions to building its New Manila International Airport project (NMAI) in ….....»»
First Bulacan, now NAIA: San Miguel-led group will operate Philippines’ main airport
(1st UPDATE) Ramon Ang first reached for the skies in 2020 when he snapped up the franchise for an international airport in Bulacan. Now, San Miguel and its partners have bagged an even bigger prize in NAIA......»»
NAIA rehab: Consortium led by San Miguel, Incheon Airport outbids everyone
If San Miguel's consortium wins, that would mean the massive conglomerate gains control of both the Ninoy Aquino International Airport and the Bulacan International Airport.....»»
Senate reworks vetoed Bulacan ecozone bill
A Senate panel tackled yesterday a proposed measure that would “cure and address” the proposal to create the Bulacan Airport City Special Economic Zone vetoed by President Marcos on his first full day in office......»»
Living in a highly urbanized city
In all areas of our life, God is there — whether in our family life, business, and social gatherings, or even in the administration of a province — yes, God is there; God is with us. Today, while the prices of basic commodities and petroleum products continue to rise, we can experience the presence of God. For example, in the province of Bulacan, we can say that God is there because of the developments undertaken by the provincial government under the leadership of its governor, the Honorable Daniel Fernando. Along with local executives of each city of the province, Governor Fernando, since his assumption to office, has implemented various developments. We can see that all his endeavors are geared towards making every city of the province “highly urbanized,” and among these is the City of San Jose del Monte. The changes in the province of Bulacan have been remarkable. Under Fernando’s watch, the Manila International Airport in Bulacan is being constructed, one of the major projects of the governor. The influx of businesses in every city of the province proves Bulakeños have confidence in the governor’s leadership. As one observer said, Bulacan’s progress is seen under the administration of Governor Daniel Fernando. For instance, San Joseños are grateful for the provincial government’s support to turn San Jose del Monte into a fully and highly urbanized city, one of the prize-winning cities of the province. I witness this because every time I visit our mission in Montalban (Rodriguez), Rizal, I have to pass by SJDM. The Bulacan government believes that once SJDM becomes a “highly urbanized city,” there will be more business opportunities, more jobs, quality service, and a much better life for its residents. I believe the neighboring cities and a portion of Rizal province will also benefit. Why? Because as a “highly urbanized city,” the people around it would also be assured of better services. The residents of SJDM have only to vote “yes” in a plebiscite to the proposal of the local government to turn SJDM into a “highly urbanized city.” I challenge the people of SJDM to study the positive results and the consequences of agreeing with their local government to the proposal. San Jose Del Monte City Mayor Arthur Robes said more funds coming into the city would increase the number of investors, boost its infrastructure, improve its education system, provide more jobs, and attract tourists. He said they have only one aim, and that is to improve the lives of San Joseños. He added that being a highly urbanized city would result in more immediate oversight of local policies, regulations, and decision-making. He said this would help the town grow and develop through careful planning and management. In December 2020, former President Rodrigo Roa Duterte proclaimed the city of San Jose del Monte a highly urbanized city by Proclamation No. 1057. Its residents can now make it a reality. The post Living in a highly urbanized city appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Five groups target NAIA takeover
Five companies have signified their intention to take over the operations and management of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport or NAIA a few weeks after the Department of Transportation or DoTr opened the bidding for the P170.6-billion project. In a text message to the Daily Tribune on Wednesday, the DoTr confirmed that five potential bidders have bought bid documents for the project. As of 13 September, the interested companies include San Miguel Corp. or SMC, Spark 888 Management Inc., and Asian Airport Consortium. Two others who submitted bids — Manila International Airport Consortium or MIAC and GMR Group — have previously vied for the NAIA rehabilitation. MIAC is composed of Aboitiz InfraCapital, Inc., AC Infrastructure Holdings Corporation, Asia’s Emerging Dragon Corporation, Alliance Global — Infracorp Development Inc., Filinvest Development Corporation, and JG Summit Infrastructure Holdings Corporation along with Global Infrastructure Partners. Super consortium in running In 2018, the government awarded the Original Proponent Status for the NAIA rehabilitation to a “super-consortium” formed by seven of the country’s biggest conglomerates: Aboitiz InfraCapital Inc.; AC Infrastructure Holdings Corporation; Alliance Global Group Inc.; Asia’s Emerging Dragon Corporation; Filinvest Development Corporation; and JG Summit Holdings Inc. and Metro Pacific Investments Corp. It was, however, terminated. Thus, Megawide Construction Corp. and partner GMR Infrastructure Ltd. also submitted an unsolicited proposal to upgrade and rehabilitate the highly congested NAIA. Despite the substantial progress, the much-needed NAIA rehabilitation was back to square one after the previous administration also rejected the proposal. According to the MIAA, the Megawide consortium failed to convince the government of its financial ability to support the project. Meanwhile, the SMC., an Asian conglomerate led by businessman Ramon S. Ang, is currently taking on the P740-billion New Manila International Airport in Bulacan. Award out by December Previously, the DoTr conveyed that the contract may be awarded to the winning bidder as early as December if the government stays on schedule. The National Economic and Development Authority or NEDA, chaired by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., approved the solicited bid to privatize the operations of NAIA. NEDA Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said the project will help address the long-standing issues at the country’s main air hub such as congestion and limited aircraft movements that usually cause inconvenience to passengers. The DoTr and the Manila International Airport Authority submitted a joint proposal to the NEDA Board to privatize the operations and management of NAIA within 15 years. The project is expected to improve the overall passenger experience and increase the current annual passenger capacity of NAIA to at least 62 million from the current 32 million. Previously, Transportation Secretary Jaime J. Bautista floated the possibility of closing down the airport — only if nearby airports become operational. Bautista explained that the government can have the option to close NAIA if airports in adjacent provinces like Cavite and Bulacan are ready to accommodate the travel-hungry tourists in the country — both local and international. “If there will be new airports, then the government can decide to close the Manila International Airport or MIA because it can be a valuable government asset. On the other hand, it is possible to continue its operations because of its prime location in the Metro,” Bautista told reporters. “So yes, it is possible to close, it is also possible not to close MIA,” he added. Bautista also assured that in case the airport continues its operations, SMC’s Bulacan Airport can still drive up profits despite the competition. The post Five groups target NAIA takeover appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Groups back DOTr’s multi-airport strategy
Several groups expressed support for the Department of Transportation’s plan to rehabilitate the Ninoy Aquino International Airport and develop other airports in Sangley Point, Cavite and in Bulakan, Bulacan, saying these would boost tourism and the economy, and subjecting the projects under solicited bidding process is consistent with the President’s good governance directive......»»
Managers: Phl remains on track
Despite the lackluster 4.3 percent in the second quarter, growth this year is expected to reach the target range of 6 percent to 7 percent gross domestic product expansion, according to Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno. “To do this, we will expedite the implementation of government programs and projects, to provide fiscal stimulus to increase the productive capacity of the public and private sectors and address the adverse recent impacts of typhoons.” Diokno added. Economic managers gathered in Fort Ilocandia in Laoag City to hold the Post-State of the Nation Economic Briefing that discussed the country’s economic situation and plans on 14 August. Diokno said in 2022, GDP increased 7.6 percent from 5.7 a year ago and a 9.5 percent contraction in 2020. Diokno said the economic team is determined to pick up government expenditure in the third and fourth quarters. Revenue collections remain robust from January to June as these totaled P1.9 trillion up 7.7 percent or P132.6 billion year-on-year which is also higher than the mid-year program by 2.7 percent. Hence, Diokno said they have already pipelined 194 infrastructure flagship projects worth P8.3 trillion of which 132 are located in Luzon that will address irrigation, water supply, flood management, agriculture, digital connectivity, physical connectivity, health, and power and energy. Diokno also highlighted some of the projects like the Laoag International Airport Development Project, the EDSA Greenways, the TPLEX Expressway Expansion Project, the Laguna Lakeshore Road Network Project, the Ilocos Norte-Sur-Abra Irrigation Project, and the Naga Airport Development Project. “The Philippines is determined to be a world leader in the race to net zero and the Ilocos Region will be a strategic partner in this mission. Dubbed to be the renewable energy capital of South East Asia, Ilocos Norte is emerging to be a promising player in the clean energy arena. Being home to the first and largest wind farms in the country,” Diokno stressed. In his address, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Eli Remolona Jr., said from a peak of 8.7 percent in January, headline inflation slowed to 4.7 percent in July due to improving domestic food supply conditions and lower global oil prices. However, he also admitted that core inflation remains high at 6.7 percent although it has already started to decline due to the monetary tightening. The BSP has responded to inflation by aggressively raising its policy rate, as of today, the BSP has raised policy rates by 425 basis points. Prices reined in “The good news is that inflation expectations are still well anchored. The markets continue to believe that we will hit our target range by 2024 and stay there in 2025,” Remolona said. Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman also gave an update on the use pf the budget for 2023. Pangandaman said at the end of July, the total amount of the national budget that has been released already is around 93 percent. “And we expect all our government agencies including all the cabinet members present here, to spend your budget so we can help grow the economy,” Pangandaman said. While for next year, the government budget will amount to 5.768 trillion and it is 21.7 percent of the GDP it has already been submitted to Congress last August 2 and the budget is expected to be passed earlier than expected. The National Economic Development Authority said it wanted to lower the poverty level to single digit. For Socioeconomic Planning Undersecretary Carlos Bernardo Abad Santos, the government has effective regional development plans. In the Ilocos Regional Development Plan from 2023-2028, the NEDA expects the Ilocos region to have a 7 percent to 7.5 percent growth while lowering the poverty incidence by 7.3 percent. ‘Build, Better, More’ under BBM;s watch Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan said the “Build, Better, More” program of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. is very much aligned with the medium-term development plan for 2023 to 2028 and is consistent with the 8-point economic agenda of the president. Bonoan said that from July 2022 to May 2023, the DPWH has built, maintained, rehabilitated, widened, and upgraded 4,082 kilometer of roads, 497 bridges, built 2,103 flood control projects, 55 evacuation centers, 216 kms farm to market roads, 8 kilometers of farm to mill roads, 138 kilometers tourism roads, 18 kilometers of roads to seaports, railway stations, and airports, 4,038 classrooms, and 6,002 rainwater collector system. “Because of climate change, we have to address and be building and developing resilient and sustainable communities in the 18 major river basins in the country,” Bonoan said. Some of the major projects that the department would like to continue are converting the Daang Maharlika which is actually now Asian Highway 26 which starts in Laoag City and will go around Cagayan Valley and has extended all the way to Zamboanga City. Bonoan says that they want to convert this backbone of the national highway into seamless travel. “In other words, there should be no major stops along the way, along this Maharlika highway,” Bonoan said. Bonoan said they’re going to build 12 major bridges, and the first bridge is the Cavite-Bataan Interlink bridge with a span of more than 32 km. Should it be completed, this will be the second-longest bay bridge in the world. The department also plans to start the Luzon Spine Expressway which will run from Laoag City to Bicol, Bonoan says that this will be 1,073 kms more. As for Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista, major Department of Transportation projects like the New Manila International Airport in Bulacan, Metro Manila Subway, EDSA Greenway Projects, EDSA Busway, MRT-3 Rehabilitation, LRT-1 Cavite, LRT-2 West Extension, MRT-7, and the modernization and capacity expansion of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport are proceeding. For the Department of Information and Communications Technology Ivan John Uy, there is already a cybersecurity plan for 2023 to 2028 which is a consolidated output of all the stakeholders in designing which includes the best practices all over the world. “We’ve ramped up in our cybercrime detection, we are busting cybercrime syndicates all over the country especially those that are dealing with scammers,” Uy said. Uy said agency is also enhancing cybersecurity status by designing courses to upgrade cybersecurity professionals. He admits that worldwide, there is a 3 million job vacancies on cyber security. DICT said by the end of the year, the department will have Two Terabits of capacity from Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, Pangasinan, Tarlac, Nueva Ecija, Bulacan all the way to Manila and we should expect very good Internet connectivity by the start of next year especially on the Luzon area. These structures also open opportunities to data centers and BPOs along the places mentioned which produces employment. DICT expects that foreign investment opportunities and interest in those areas will boom. The post Managers: Phl remains on track appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Congress earmarks funds NAIA infra projects
House Committee on Appropriations Vice-chairperson and Makati City Representative Luis Jose Angel Campos Jr. on Sunday announced that the Ninoy Aquino International Airport is set to receive some P2.8 billion for infrastructure projects. Campos disclosed that also included is the P1.2-billion budget for the acquisition of a new traffic management system following the New Year’s Day breakdown that disrupted hundreds of flights. He said that the P1.2 billion in the proposed 2024 budget was allocated for the communications, navigation, and surveillance-air traffic management system which seeks to improve the efficiency of the country’s main gateway. “We are counting on the new CNS-ATM system to optimize airspace and airport efficiency, reduce flight delays, and improve travel experience,” said Campos in a statement. “Our hopes are high that the new system, once installed and fully functional, could potentially increase airport capacity to accommodate more flights in the years ahead,” he added. The move comes as Department of Transportation Secretary Jaime Bautista in January cited the need for a backup system, as the current system in use estimated to be worth P13 billion — is already in its midlife. Last month, the National Economic and Development Authority Board chaired by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., opted to push through with plans to privatize NAIA through a solicited bid with the upfront payment cost now being studied and initially estimated at P30 billion. In June this year, the DoTr and the Manila International Airport Authority submitted a joint proposal to the NEDA Board seeking a private concession to invest and improve the NAIA for 15 years. The NEDA Board approved the 15-year concession period, with the option to renew for another 10 years based on a performance review, and should the two new airports — the New Manila International Airport in Bulacan and the Sangley International Airport in Cavite — be delayed. Before this, the Manila International Airport Consortium in April submitted an unsolicited proposal to take over NAIA, but this was deemed “de facto closed” when the government opted for a solicited bid. At present, NAIA’s terminals service over 40 million passengers versus its 32-million annual capacity, with 38 to 40 landings and takeoffs made per hour. The post Congress earmarks funds NAIA infra projects appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bulacan water world
The government should probe the connection between the recent destructive flooding in Bulacan and Pampanga to the construction of the massive San Miguel Corp. airport project. Residents, environmental groups and scientists had foretold the damaging effects on the environment of disturbing the ecology of the area. Experts have said delicate ecosystems are under threat from the $15-billion airport development called the New Manila International Airport. It is currently the Philippines’ most expensive infrastructure deal ever and will cover an area seven and a half times the size of New York’s Central Park which is 3.41 square kilometers. When completed, it will cater to approximately 100 million passengers a year and is targeted to be one of the busiest airports by passenger traffic globally. Despite the denials and assurances of SMC officials that the project will include spillways and other anti-flood structures, the almost one week of continuous rain as typhoons Egay and Falcon passed near the northern Philippines point to the worst fears of the residents transpiring. The provinces of Bulacan and Pampanga have been placed under a state of calamity due to the flooding that has persisted days after the typhoons passed and the southwest monsoon rain had stopped. Some 172 barangays in 16 towns and three cities in Bulacan are still affected by floods ranging from six inches to seven feet, according to the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office. London and Washington-based group Global Witness said in a report that the project’s environmental costs are already significant as hundreds of mangrove trees, “which not only absorb and store climate-wrecking carbon dioxide but also form natural flood barriers,” had been cleared. Environmental and climate-related damage is expected to worsen and permanently damage natural habitats on the airport development site, the report added. A census of waterbirds in Manila Bay, according to Global Watch, revealed that their presence has declined by over 20 percent since 2017. Massive land reclamation projects — like the airport — are set to see these numbers dwindle even further. SMC promised to construct a $1-billion spillway from Bulacan’s upstream river sources to drain directly to Manila Bay, saying it will resolve the flooding problem of the province. An SMC official even boasted during a meeting with residents and representatives of environmental groups that “SMC is not stupid that it will build an airport only to be flooded.” Kalikasan People’s Network for the Environment warned against relying on the SMC promises as recent typhoons showed the location as being increasingly prone to flooding as a result of the reclamation and airport construction. The waterways from Bulacan’s ridges down to its reefs are complex systems that cannot be simply resolved with just a spillway, according to environmental advocates. Recent torrential monsoon rains were cited as an example, as the flood comes not only from waters in the Sierra Madre but also from extreme rainfall directly falling on Bulacan’s river basin and from coastal overflow. Continuing land subsidence, aggravated by groundwater extraction, is worsening the flood situation in Bulacan, according to a geological expert. The urban sprawl resulting from the expected influx of over one million workers and 100-200 million air passengers constantly in transit in the area, if the SMC Aerotropolis were built, would intensify land subsidence and increase the exposure of populations to flooding hazards. Engineering solutions and simplistic development promises are always impressive until you start looking into the devil in the details, according to the expert. With an average number of typhoons that uses up all the letters of the alphabet each year, Bulacan and nearby provinces are destined to be constantly submerged in exchange for the Aerotopolis. The post Bulacan water world appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
On Laguna Lake tragedy
A tragedy occurred on Laguna de Bay last 27 July with the sinking of the MB Aya Express that was battered by strong winds right after it set sail from Binangonan toward Talim Island in the province of Rizal. A total of 27 passengers reportedly drowned, while 41 survived, bringing the total number of passengers to 68, in a boat with a maximum capacity of 42. The deaths included the elderly and the young, making it the worst boat tragedy in the history of Rizal. Laguna de Bay is the largest freshwater lake in the Philippines, and it is common for boats to traverse it to get to the different towns surrounding and within it. The largest island in the middle of the lake is Talim Island, which has a population of around 40,000. This is a fishing town with mountain peaks visited by urban trekkers. Notably, Talim Island was once proposed for an airport near Manila that would have been connected by a bridge from Pasig or Taguig. The project did not fly, and the government opted for the San Miguel Corporation-sponsored airport project in Bulakan, Bulacan. With the promise of development for Talim Island being remote, the mode of getting to and from the island remains to be “traditional.” Motor bancas set sail without filling out the passenger manifest, as required by the DOTr’s Marina. The MB Aya Express left its port of origin without any knowledge of the storm signal or sailing orders from the local substation of the Philippine Coast Guard or PCG, which was situated far from the port. It was evident that the tailwinds of typhoon “Egay” were still hammering the metro and utmost safety precautions must be taken despite the absence of rainfall. It was also reported that the boat captain did not have a license to speak of. A survivor recounted that the passengers panicked because of the strong winds that eventually caused one of the wooden outriggers to break. The passengers then all ran to one side, causing the boat to tilt and capsize. Since the sides of the boat were covered with tarpaulin to shield the passengers from the rain and waves, these trapped the passengers in the boat. Even seasoned swimmers would have drowned. The incident led to the death of children as young as five, and of respected elderly women of Talim Island. Immediately after the news broke out, Marina suspended the Passenger Ship Safety Certificate of the boat owner. The captain was apprehended and is facing charges. The two PCG officials assigned to the substation were relieved of their duties. Consequently, Senate and House resolutions were filed to initiate investigative hearings, in aid of legislation, that will be publicized. While these efforts would not bring back the departed, nor erase the trauma of the survivors, this may prevent the same from happening again on Laguna Lake and other waterways around the country. In the spirit of transparency, our insurance company, Milestone Guaranty and Assurance Corp., is the group personal accident insurer of the boat owner. As we have signified to the victims and their families, we have provided financial support in humanitarian consideration to help alleviate the pain of loss and the trauma experienced. It is our hope that the families and victims of the sunken MB Aya Express will be able to recover from this tragedy and continue with their lives, although this is easier said than done. Rest assured, our insurance company shall assist them to the best of our ability, and it is our prayer that no such tragedy takes place again in our country’s waterways. *** For comments, email him at darren.dejesus@gmail.com The post On Laguna Lake tragedy appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Imee vs BBM? ‘Never ever’
Senator Imee Marcos has set the record straight regarding her relationship with her younger brother, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. At Thursday’s Kapihan sa Senado, Imee said despite her open criticism of the administration, she has rejected the invitation for her to join the opposition. “I am solid administration, there’s no ifs or buts. I’m only here to protect the President and the family name,” she said. She added: “We fought hard and long for this, and we’re deeply invested in making certain that the Marcos administration would work.” Earlier this week, Senate Minority Leader Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III said he was willing to take Senator Marcos in should she decide to join the opposition. Pimentel, the other oppositionist in the Senate along with Sen. Risa Hontiveros, later clarified that his invitation was a “joke,” but that it remained on the table. ‘I love my brother’ Having differing opinions, according to Imee, is quite normal in their family, noting that their late father, former President Ferdinand Marcos Sr., likewise was not averse to contrary positions. “In our family, we always have discussions. We have different opinions. When my father was still alive, he was happy if he was being opposed. He was annoyed, but he was happy,” she said. “I am not opposing anything. We’re trying to hammer out details. I love my brother and we will never ever separate because of one simple reason: we came from only one tree.” Imee said her role in her brother’s administration was more of a “shepherd,” stressing that role is important to “protect” their family name. “My brother in his SoNA gave all the directions. I agree with that. Now, what should we do, there should be the ones to provide details. My role now is to focus on agencies and secretaries to find the best ways,” she said. “I am protecting my brother and, most of all, our name from any failures and fiascos. We have waited for 36 years, we cannot afford to make any mistakes,” she said. The siblings’ relationship has always been the subject of grapevine talk, even before Marcos Jr. ascended to the presidency. Historian Ambeth Ocampo had noted that Marcos Sr., in a diary entry, confirmed having a “soft spot for his elder daughter, (as) the child most likely to succeed.” Ocampo claimed the Marcos patriarch even “wished” that Imee had been a boy. Despite Imee’s longer years in politics, her younger brother, their father’s namesake, has given them the biggest comeback to the political arena after they were forced out of Malacañang and into exile by the 1986 People Power Revolution. Logical Pimentel’s invitation for the elder Marcos sibling to join the opposition did not come out of nowhere. Senator Marcos, the eldest of the four children of Marcos Sr. and former First Lady Imelda Marcos, had publicly called out certain actions of the President. Last year, the President’s first act after assuming office was to veto House Bill 7575 or the proposed Bulacan Airport City Special Economic Zone and Freeport Act. Having sponsored the measure before the plenary, Senator Marcos expressed dismay over her brother’s action and even warned him that it could send a wrong message to foreign investors. Earlier this year, she found herself opposed to her brother’s take on the EDSA anniversary, the event that not only changed their lives but the course of the country. The President said he was “one with the nation” in “remembering those times of tribulation and how we came out of them united and stronger as a nation.” Likewise, he offered reconciliation to “those with different political persuasions.” In contrast, Imee shared her thoughts about what she called the “truth” of EDSA. “For beyond the lesson of people power, or even what others have called mere military adventurism, a power grab, or even the endless clash of elites, to me the truth of EDSA is that we owe millions of Filipinos still living in squalor and insecurity, ignorance and hunger the promise of change,” she said. “Together, as one nation, let us go forth to transform this poor and unjust country into a Philippines that is, truly and finally, for all Filipinos,” she added. Likewise, Senator Marcos did not vote on the controversial Maharlika Investment Fund bill, a priority measure of the President. Less than a month after the Senate approved the measure, the lawmaker admitted that she deliberately skipped voting on the measure as it was “hinog sa pilit” or forcibly ripened. “We don’t talk frequently. I only see him when we have family affairs or official functions,” she said. “Sometimes, Sandro would approach me. Sometimes, he would send Sandro to tell me something. It is like that. Sometimes, I also get annoyed.” “It is okay, we are a normal family, but we don’t have a kitchen table these days. We’re also busy. Otherwise, it would have been around my mother’s kitchen table where we argue and discuss and dispute. It’s fun.” The post Imee vs BBM? ‘Never ever’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Imee says she’s not joining opposition: ‘I love my brother’
Senator Imee Marcos has set the record straight on her relationship with her brother, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. During Thursday’s Kapihan sa Senado, Imee rejected the invitation offered to her by Senate Minority Leader Aquilino "Koko" Pimentel III for her to be part of the opposition given her criticisms of the administration's policies on several occasions. “I am a solid administration, there’s no ifs or buts. I’m only here to protect the president and the family name,” she stressed. “We fought hard and long for this, and we’re deeply invested in making certain that the Marcos administration should work,” she added. Earlier this week, Pimentel III said he is willing to adopt the older Marcos should she decide to join the opposition. Pimentel, the other half of the two-member minority bloc in the upper chamber, explained that his invitation, although it was only a “joke,” was still on the table. Presently, there are only two members of the minority in the Senate: Pimentel and Senate Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros. Quite normal But having differing opinions, according to Imee, is quite normal in their family. She noted that their late father, former President Ferdinand Marcos Sr., likewise followed this approach. “In our family, we always have discussions. We have different opinions. When my father was still alive, he was happy if he was being opposed. He was annoyed, but he was happy,” she explained. “I am not opposing anything. We’re trying to hammer out details. I love my brother and we will never ever separate because of one simple reason: We came from only one tree,” she added. Imee also noted that her role in her brother’s administration is more of a “shepherd,” stressing that it was needed to “protect” their family name. “My brother in his SONA gave all the directions. I agree with that... My role now is to focus on agencies and secretaries to find the best ways,” she said. “I am protecting my brother and most of all our name from any failures and fiascos. We have waited for 36 years, we cannot afford to make any mistakes,” she added. Sibling relationship Imee and Bongbong’s relationship has always been the subject of speculation even before the latter ascended to the presidency. In the January 2022 column of historian Ambeth Ocampo, he noted that Marcos Sr., in his diaries, had “had a soft spot for his eldest daughter, the child most likely to succeed.” Ocampo said that the Marcos patriarch even “wished” Imee to be a boy. Despite Imee’s longer years in politics, her younger brother, who shared the name of their father, gave the Marcos family the biggest comeback in the country's political history by winning the 2022 presidential elections. Imee, the eldest among the four children of Marcos Sr. and former First Lady Imelda Marcos, had publicly called out certain actions of the president. Last year, the President’s first action after assuming office was vetoing House Bill No. 7575 or the proposed Bulacan Airport City Special Economic Zone and Freeport Act. Imee, who sponsored the measure before the plenary, expressed her dismay at her brother’s actions and even warned him that it could send a wrong message to foreign investors. Earlier this year, the lawmaker also figured in a tug-of-war with her brother on their family’s take on the anniversary of the EDSA People Power revolution, the event that sent them into political exile. The president said he was “one with the nation” in “remembering those times of tribulation and how we came out of them united and stronger as a nation." He offered the hand of reconciliation to “those with different political persuasions.” Imee had a different perspective about what she called the “truth” of EDSA. “For beyond the lesson of people power, or even what others have called mere military adventurism, a power grab, or even the endless clash of elites, to me the truth of EDSA is that we owe millions of Filipinos still living in squalor and insecurity, ignorance and hunger the promise of change,” she said. Imee also abstained from voting for the controversial Maharlika Investment Fund bill, the brainchild of the President, when the upper chamber was deciding whether to pass or reject the measure. Less than a month after the Senate approved the measure, the lawmaker admitted that she deliberately skipped voting on the measure as it was “hinog sa pilit” or forced to ripen. But Imee pointed out that their family is no different from any other household, saying she is sometimes “annoyed” by her brother’s actions. “We don’t talk frequently. I only see him when we have family affairs or official functions,” she said. “Sometimes, Sandro would approach me. Sometimes, he would send Sandro to tell me something. It is like that. Sometimes, I also get annoyed.” “It is okay, we are a normal family, but we don't have a kitchen table these days. We're also busy. Otherwise, it would have been around my mother's kitchen table where we [would] argue and discuss and dispute. It's fun.” The post Imee says she’s not joining opposition: ‘I love my brother’ appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
DoTr shifts priority focus on public transport initiatives
Responding to the President’s call to deliver efficient services to Filipinos, the Department of Transportation has committed to shift its focus into developing a public transit-friendly landscape, instead of maintaining the current car-centric setup that privileges the private automobile as a better transportation mode. “The transportation department’s initiatives have shifted focus on public transport, to maximize usage of the country’s limited highways,” the DoTr said on Monday. “The goal is for private vehicle owners to abandon their cars in favor of trains, buses, taxis, bicycles, and even motorcycle taxis,” it added. Despite facing numerous headwinds, the DoTr still described the EDSA Busway implementation as successful. The new system, which is envisioned to be replicated in more populated areas in the country, reduces travel time between Monumento and PITX to more or less an hour. To recall, improving the EDSA busway system was one of the priorities of the DoTr. It plans to introduce new stations and upgrade existing facilities to be universally accessible, gender-responsive, and climate resilient — all aligned with international standards. Active transport nationwide Simultaneously, the DoTr said it will complete its planned 2,400-kilometer bike lane expansion by 2028 to promote active and sustainable transportation. “As an advocate of the environment-friendly transport system, we are pushing for the Active Transport Program where 564 kilometers of bike lanes were built throughout the country with an additional 470 kilometers to be constructed this year,” it added. The DoTr has set out its plans to upgrade and expand existing bike lane and pedestrian walkway networks, and provide better Public Utility Vehicle stops and End-of-Trip cycling facilities. For this year alone, the DoTr will mobilize P932.82 million to build additional 470 kilometers of protected bike lanes across nine regions in the country this year. Airport overhaul underway To boost the country’s tourism industry, the DoTr aims to improve the operations and facilities of our international and even regional airports through the implementation of Public-Private Partnerships to speed up aviation projects. Just last week, Transportation Secretary Jaime J. Bautista said the DoTr will publish the Terms of Reference for the solicited bidding to rehabilitate the Ninoy Aquino International Airport by next month so that contract will be awarded as early as December. The National Economic and Development Authority or NEDA, chaired by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., approved the solicited bid to privatize the operations of NAIA. NEDA Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said the P170.6-billion project will help address the long-standing issues at the country’s main air hub such as congestion and limited aircraft movements that usually cause inconvenience to passengers. “We also have opened to the public the new passenger terminal of Clark International Airport. And to complement the operations in our main gateway, new airport projects in Bulacan and Sangley are being developed,” the DoTr noted. Likewise, the DoTr added that the relaxation of travel restrictions and continued support to recovery initiatives of airlines and other aviation stakeholders have resulted in passenger volume being around 3.2x compared to 2021 figures. Full-year 2022 domestic and international passenger volumes hit 32.3 million vs 7.7 million in 2021. Powering through delays In the railways sector, despite the push backs, the DoTr said it remains optimistic to deliver its promises. “Railways effectively address traffic congestion while providing increased passenger and freight capacity. The DoTr is accelerating the development, upgrade, and construction of big-ticket rail projects to be able to move more people and goods,” the DoTr said. “The DoTr has made substantial headway on several ongoing rail projects with various contracts signed and construction and financing milestones for big-ticket projects North-South Commuter Railway, Metro Manila Subway Project, LRT-1 Cavite Extension, Common Station, MRT-3 Rehabilitation and Maintenance, MRT-4 and other ongoing railway projects,” it added. Despite the slow progress, the Metro Manila Subway Project, which has been at the table for years, is one of the flagship projects the DoTr wants to prioritize. According to Bautista, fulfilling the rail project on time also means fulfilling his promise of providing “a global-standard transport system” to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. With 17 stations and a depot of 30.34 hectares, the civil works for the Metro Manila Subway Project’s two major segments will generate more than 6,000 direct and indirect jobs. Funded by the Japanese government, the subway is a 33-kilometer rail line stretching from Valenzuela City to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 in Pasay City. It will reduce travel time between Quezon City and NAIA from one hour and 10 minutes to just 45 minutes. The post DoTr shifts priority focus on public transport initiatives appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bulacan airport nearing construction stage
With the Ninoy Aquino International Airport set to be privatized, the builder of the soon to be largest gateway in the Philippines is accelerating land development with the goal of starting civil works next year......»»
DOTr: Shorter deal a better option for NAIA privatization
The Department of Transportation is insisting that a 15-year concession period is a “more appropriate term” that will offer all stakeholders the flexibility needed for the planned privatization of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport. In an interview with reporters on Tuesday, Transportation Undersecretary for Aviation and Airports Roberto Lim said the government will pursue a shorter concession period than the 25 years previously offered by a consortium vying to take over the operations and management of NAIA. “Well, their offer is 25 years and the basic proposal of the government that has been submitted to the NEDA is for 15 years. It’s different, it’s a different case study,” Lim said. “We, at the DoTr, believe 15 years is a more appropriate term that gives us flexibility,” he added. According to Lim, the company that would take over the operations and management of NAIA, the country’s main air hub, would need to shell out at least P9.5 billion yearly to modernize its facilities. For the 15-year concession agreement that will be awarded, the company would need a total war chest of at least a whopping P141 billion in total investments. However, Lim noted that the DoTr may decide to extend the period depending on the demand forecast. “It could be a 10-year extension based on the demand forecast. NAIA, as we envision it, may have a theoretical limit of 62 million passengers per annum. So if we are already hitting 70 million, we may need to invest more in NAIA, especially if the two other airports (Bulacan and Sangley) are behind schedule,” Lim explained. Presently, the DoTr still evaluates the unsolicited proposal submitted by the Manila International Airport Consortium or MIAC. “We met with them several times and we are meeting with them this week. There are still clarifications that have been raised by both sides. Issues like real property taxes and other issues. Another meeting will take place this week,” Lim said. “Right now both solicited and unsolicited proposals are proceeding on separate tracks Let’s give NEDA time to make a collective decision on what’s the best route to take. I think within this month, we will have more clarity on the path we should pursue,” he added. The post DOTr: Shorter deal a better option for NAIA privatization appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Gov’t, firms sign contracts for portions of North-South Commuter Railway
The government and private companies signed contracts for portions of the 56-kilometer North-South Commuter Railway (NSCR) connecting Malolos, Bulacan with Clark International Airport and Tutuban with Calamba......»»