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[Press Release] Human rights group intensified calls for justice; highlights calls for livelihood and employment -Women WISE3

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Human rights group intensified calls for justice; highlights calls for livelihood and employment

On its 4th anniversary, the Women Workers in Struggle for Employment, Empowerment and Emancipation or Women WISE3 intensified calls for justice following Malacanang’s claim of improving human rights situation.

In reaction to a Malacanang statement in Aug 30 saying that there are no cases of enforced disappearances under the Aquino government, Dylin Lauron, Women WISE3 coordinator said, “The Aquino government should stop denying that human rights violations like enforced disappearances continue to happen. Truth be told, the number of violations in the first two years Aquino are way more than the first two years of its predecessor.”

Various human rights group have documented more than 70 cases of extra-judicial killings beginning July 2010 while there are 11 cases enforced disappearances according to Karapatan. Various labor rights violations, as documented by the Center for Trade Union and Human Rights, have victimized at least 10,000 workers in the last two years.

“Just like how it hides the real poverty situation by changing the [poverty] threshold, the Aquino government wants the people to believe that the human rights condition in the country is improving by sheer denial of facts. This is very alarming. What action can we expect from a government that denies the real situation?” Lauron pointed out.

Lauron also challenged Malacanang to expedite the resolution of human rights violations committed by the Arroyo government. “If Aquino is serious about making the past administration accountable to the people, he must also prosecute Arroyo for her grave human rights records.”

Lauron added that Aquino’s counterinsurgency program, Oplan Bayanihan, must be stopped to end the spate of human rights violations.

Meanwhile, Women WISE3 also highlighted calls for livelihood and employment for families of victims of human rights violations especially whose breadwinners were killed, disappeared, or displaced from their work, amid natural disasters and floods.

“Most families of victims of human rights and labor rights violations are left impoverished because oftentimes, they lose the family breadwinner or worker-victims find it more difficult to land on regular jobs. Their economic condition is aggravated by the natural disasters and floods which we experience more often nowadays due to global warming.”

“To wholly address these concerns, livelihood programs and better employment opportunities must also be extended to families of victims of human rights violations,” Lauron explained.

For reference: Dylin Lauron, Women WISE3 Coordinator, 0922.565.8886

PRESS RELEASE
02 September 2012

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[Press Release] Romblon LGU rejects another mining application, Asserts provisions in P-Noy’s mining policy -ATM

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Romblon LGU rejects another mining application
Asserts provisions in P-Noy’s mining policy

San Fernando, Romblon – Municipality of San Fernando in Sibuyan, Romblon will not participate in any process pertaining to the application for Mineral Production Sharing Agreement (MPSA) of Fil-China Mining Development Corporation, said Mayor Dindo C. Rios.

In a letter dated last August 13 sent to Roland de Jesus, MGB Regional Director for MIMAROPA, Mayor Rios stressed the provisions in the mining Executive Order 79 (EO 79) stating that protected areas shall be spared from mining.

‘The whole island is a protected area as a mangrove swamp forest reserve pursuant to Presidential Proclamation 2152,’ explained Mayor Dios. He also clarified that Sibuyan Island is also listed among the Tourism Development Areas (TDA), which had been declared as no go zone for mining.

Meanwhile, Alyansa Tigil Mina (ATM) hailed this action of Romblon LGU for protecting their islands and recognizing that mining activities will further aggravate the susceptibility to landslide and flooding of many areas in the municipality.

“It was just disappointing that DENR themselves are the ones pushing for projects closed to mining. Even before the EO was released, there are already existing policies protecting Sibuyan including a local legislation opposing mining in the island,” said Jaybee Garganera, ATM national coordinator.

Alyansa Tigil Mina is an alliance of mining-affected communities and their support groups of NGOs/POs and other civil society organizations who are opposing the aggressive promotion of large-scale mining in the Philippines. The alliance is currently pushing for a moratorium on mining, revocation of Executive Order 270-A, repeal of the Mining Act of 1995 and passage of the AMMB. (30)

—
For more information:
Jaybee Garganera, ATM National Coordinator;, nc@alyansatigilmina.net, 09277617602
Rodne Galicha, ATM Sites of Struggle Officer; sos@alyansatigilmina.net, 09052850700
Edel S. Garingan – ATM Media and Communication Officer: communications@alyansatigilmina.net,
0922-8918972

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[Press Release] Mining digs holes on P-Noy’s ‘tuwid na daan’ -ATM

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Mining digs holes on P-Noy’s ‘tuwid na daan’
Groups laud president’s call for environmental protection and fair revenue sharing before mining

President Aquino might have already realized that mining industry is a big challenge on his roadmap for good governance, said Alyansa Tigil Mina (ATM) reacting on P-Noy’s pronouncement in SONA that mining will not be allowed if it will result to environmental degradation.

“It’s a good indication that the president is recognizing that the current policy on mining has not guaranteed good returns in terms of revenue and economic benefits for the country and the local communities,” said Jaybee Garganera, national coordinator of ATM.

ATM with its partner organizations also mentioned that P-Noy’s proposed reforms in the mining industry are already outlined in the Alternative Minerals Management Bill (AMMB) that is now being heard in the Natural Resources Committee in the House of Representatives and is supported by communities, civil society groups and the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines.

On agricultural lands
In his SONA the president also enumerated his accomplishments in increasing the country’s agricultural productivity and exclaimed goals for exporting rice next year. However, the groups reminded the president that mining is posing threats to this aspiration.

“He should not forget the magnetite mining in MacArthur, Leyte that had caused two consecutive fish kills in Lake Bito this year and had ransacked vast agricultural land in the province,” said Fr. Edu Gariguez, executive secretary of Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines-National Secretariat for Social Action (NASSA) and 2012 Goldman Prize Environmental Awardee.

Gariguez challenged the president to be true to his principle of going against the entities oppressing communities, “He should instruct environment secretary Ramon Paje to act quickly and with resolve on the issue against NICUA mining in Leyte that had deprived fisherfolk around Lake Bito of their livelihoods ”

On human rights violation
ATM reminded the president to also not forgive and forget the human rights violations of several mining firms in the country.

“He should bear in his mind that in January 2011, the Commission on Human Rights had recommended to him the revocation of the mining contract for Oceana Gold Philippines, Inc. (OGPI) in Nueva Vizcaya for committing grave violations against human rights of the communities opposing the mining project,” Garganera added.

ATM also lamented that while the president enumerated his accomplishments and targets in eradicating shortages in chairs and classrooms for Filipino students, many children and youth in Mindanao face threat of displacement because of the proposed Tampakan mining project in South Cotabato, and nearby provinces, especially in CARAGA region, known as the mining capital of the Philippines. Meanwhile, Pnoy tallied the improvements in the Armed Forces and the National Police, as civil society groups are also concerned with the increasing trends in extra-judicial killings in the country.

IP-blind
The group also lamented the apparent lack of recognition of indigenous peoples. Making up at least twelve million Filipinos, the IPs represent more than 10% of the population, are the most vulnerable and considered as the poorest among the poor. They are aslo the most threatened sector by mining. And yet, the whole 1-1/2 hours of the SONA failed to mention them, and their daily struggles against mining to protect their ancestral domains.

Ganun na lang ba’ yun?
“We can not just also forgive and forget mining firms that caused unbearable burden to the communities and the country as a whole. Even EO 79 will not solve the problem. Ganun na lang ba ‘yun? Of course not, if we want positive changes in our minerals management, then AMMB has to be passed immediately,” Garganera concluded.

Alyansa Tigil Mina is an alliance of mining-affected communities and other civil society organizations who are opposing the aggressive promotion of large-scale mining in the Philippines. 30)

For more information:

Fr Edu Gariguez, CBCP-NASSA Executive Secretary, 09198005595
Jaybee Garganera, ATM National Coordinator – 09277617602
Farah Sevilla – policy@alyansatigilmina.net; 0915-3313361
Edel S. Garingan – communications@alyansatigilmina.net; 0922-8918972

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[Press Release] Teachers’ groups slam Malacañang for insisting K-12 -TDC

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Teachers’ groups slam Malacañang for insisting K-12

The newly-formed education sector party, Ating Guro slams Malacañang today for deliberate disregard of the basic requirements for a successful implementation of the K-12 program, Aquino administration’s flagship program for education sector.

Prof. Rene C. Romero, a retired professor of Philippine Normal University (PNU) who is also the honorary president of Ating Guro criticized the K-12 program which according to him “is not the proper response” if the government is sincere enough in addressing the initial issues of high drop-out rate and the deteriorating quality of education especially in public schools.

Romero who spent four decades teaching at the country’s premiere teacher-training institution believes that “the perennial shortages in classrooms, teachers, books and other facilities should be addressed first by providing budgetary support of at least 50% of the current budget.”

Arsenio Jallorina, the party’s chairman says the implementation of K-12 for this year is haphazard.

“Based on our consultation in the field, even some of the field officials of the department are not convinced or at least do not have enough knowledge of the program. How could this project be successful if the implementers themselves do not support it?” Asks Jallorina.

Jallorina furthered “This program is set to change the decades-old system of public education and we should not do it abruptly. The system should be prepared so as not to sacrifice the welfare of teachers.”

Jallorina also expresses doubt over the reported result of SWS survey conducted last March that says 65% of respondents approve the K-12 program. “We are also doing our own survey and it reveals that most of the direct stakeholders- the teachers, parents and students are not convinced with this ambitious program.”

Ildefonso Enguerra, TDC-NCR Chair and teacher from Roxas High School in Manila echoed the sentiments of the group. He agreed that the DepEd is not prepared to launch the K-12 program and it was revealed during the opening of classes. He particularly cited report of DepEd that says that the book to student ratio for this school year has reached 1:1 level.

Enguerra says that “there are books that released to students and teachers but those books do not fit the desired learning competencies under the curriculum.” Other subjects like Filipino has no textbooks at all and the module or instructional materials for Grades 1 and 7 provided by the DepEd are for the 1st two quarters only.”

The groups again appeal to Malacañang to consider postponement of the program and initiate a wide consultation that would include the stakeholders or elevate the matter to a national debate. #
______________________________________________________________
For details:
Arsie Jallorina: 0915-4874506
Nono Enguera: 0915-3785069

Teachers’ Dignity Coalition
“Unity of Teachers to Regain the Dignity of Teaching Profession”
SEC Registration Number: CN 2007-10645
117-C Matatag St., Bgy. Central, Quezon City
Hotline: (02)3853437 • Telefax (02)4350036 • Mobile: 0920-5740241/ 0920-4142614
Email: teachersdignity@yahoo.com.ph • Website: http://www.teachersdignity.com

NEWS RELEASE
June 19, 2012

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[Press Release] Farmers and fishers of Leyte cry freedom from mining -ATM

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Farmers and fishers of Leyte cry freedom from mining
Groups demand national intervention over Chinese mineral extraction

MacArthur, LEYTE (Philippines) – Due to threat to food sufficiency and security, villagers from MacArthur town in the province of Leyte urged the national government to act on the continuous conversion of rice fields to mining areas.

‘Since 2010, day and night, silence has become alien to our ears as loud machines continuously extract magnetite from a once rice producing irrigated lands,’ a farmer from Pongon village said, who wished not to be identified due to fears of harassment.

Landowners either sold or leased their lands to the mining company leaving their tenant-farmers jobless and eventually forced to work for Nicua Mining Corporation which exports magnetite sand to China.

A barricade has been installed by both the farmers and fisherfolk from the nearby Villa Imelda and Liwayway villages to prevent further damages to Lake Bito where tilapia fish is grown.

‘A series of fish mortalities this year is enough and scientific studies from government agencies have proven that among others, oil and grease from mining have contributed to the recent fish kills in the lake,’ said Jesus Cabias, president of Unahin Lagi Natin ang Diyos – Bito Lake Fisherfolks Association (UNLAD-BLFA)

The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) stressed that three factors led to the fish kills in the lake.

‘Domestic pollution, irresponsible aquaculture practice and contamination from oil and grease from the mining operations are factors that should be dealt with equally and comprehensively,’ said Dr. Nancy Dayap, an environmental scientist from BFAR.

The study of BFAR complements the studies of the Visayas State University conducted by a team led by Dr. Humberto R. Montes, Jr., Director of the Institute of Tropical Ecology and Environmental Management.

‘The elevation of the lake is lower than that of the mining site and naturally the turbid water coming from the mines will backflow through the lake’s outlet and eventually intrude the lake – the recent settling pond water backflow has proven this,’ said Montes.

Montes further stressed that a study conducted in 2010 predicted that the water level of the lake may decrease if large excavations are conducted in nearby areas.

In a Solidarity Mission conducted by the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines – National Secretariat for Social Action, Justice and Peace (CBCP-NASSA) and Alyansa Tigil Mina (ATM) together with the Social Action Centers of the Archdiocese of Palo and Dioceses of Cabayog and Borongan, the villagers in the barricade lamented the gradual drying up of Lake Bito.

‘This is the first time in the history of the lake that it dried up and the water level has gone down, the theory of VSU experts are becoming true. Ware afraid, very much afraid – our freedom is suppressed and our economic, social and cultural rights are violated. Ganun na lang ba ‘yun? (Is that it?),’ said Cabias.

Fr. Edu Gariguez, executive secretary of CBCP-NASSA and recipient of the international Goldman Environmental Award 2012, who led the Solidarity Mission said that the series of unfortunate events are gross negligence and plunder, violation of human rights and disrespect for the integrity of creation.

‘What is the national government doing? We demand national intervention. For the villagers, there is imminent danger – their lives and livelihoods are at stake, sacrificed over Chinese demands. Can we eat magnetite sand? Why are we prioritizing mining over rice and fish production?’ said Gariguez

‘We are calling the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Secretary Ramon Paje to visit MacArthur and all other national officials to visit MacArthur to see for themselves how the Chinese suck our magnetite sand and transport it with ease to China. We are fighting for our sovereignty over Scarborough Shoal, but here in front of us – face to face – they are gradually claiming our lands, ’ Gariguez concluded. (30)

————-
Jesus Cabias, (UNLAD-BLFA) – (0912) 433-7768 / Dr. Nancy Dayap, BFAR – (053) 321-1732 / Dr. Humberto Montes, Jr., VSU – (0908) 617-4528 / Fr. Edu Gariguez, CBCP-NASSA – (0922) 834-8248

ATM PRESS RELEASE
13 JUNE 2012

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[Press Release] Three-year imprisonment for killing environmental activist – Not enough! -ATM

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Three-year imprisonment for killing environmental activist – Not enough!
Case is over with no justice, laments Marin family and supporters

Sibuyan, Romblon – Armin Marin, a staunch environmental activist in Sibuyan, Romblon and was then a member of the municipal council was shot dead on October 3, 2007 while leading a picket of hundreds of anti-mining advocates, after five years of investigation and court hearing, Mario Kingo, the man accused of killing Marin only received three-year imprisonment.

Killed but no murder
On May 23, 2012 in Magdiwang, Romblon, Executive Judge Ramiro R. Geronimo acquitted Mario Kingo from murder charges but was found guilty of criminal negligence and imprudence. The court ruling gave bearing on statement that the grappling of the gun between Marin and Kingo led to the incident.

In his verdict, Judge Geronimo promulgated that there was no substantial evidence to establish the intent to commit such crime.

Grapple for Justice
“The verdict had been served but not justice,” said Domingo Marin, father of Armin and president of Sibuyanon’s Against Mining. “We were upset upon hearing the decision. At this time, we don’t know what to do. We don’t just lose the case, it also feels like that we have lost our hope, justice is nowhere to find in this country” Domingo lamented.

On the other hand, Rodilisa Marin wife of Armin was completely devastated by the decision. “I really expect that the punishment would be more than just that, he was killed, killed helplessly.”

Growing Sympathy
Few hours after the verdict was announced, people in Sibuyan showed grave disappointment and rained their comments on various online portals. On Facebook, supporters of Armin Marin questioned the decision. “On what ground Ramiro Geronimo came up with that sentence, another insult to the injury for the victim? Geronimo should go back to law school, he seems to miss on a lot of things when it comes to making the call for justice,” said Romeo Sosbreno, facebook user.

A new Facebook page was also created to again call for justice for Armin Marin. The page, Justice to Armin, save Sibuyan (and Romblon Province), posted the actual photo of Marin during the time he was shot with blood bursting from his mouth.

Environmental groups and Human Rights Advocates were also dismayed on the court ruling.

Jaybee Garganera, national coordinator of Alyansa Tigil Mina said that the killing of Armin was also a crime committed to the people of Sibuyan. “Hundred of protesters saw what happened, how Kingo grab Armin on his shirt drag him on his lap and shot him on his mouth. The promulgation is like telling the people that they are lying and what they saw did not happen.”

“But there is a bigger contentions on this,” said Garganera. “How it could be just ‘grappling’ of the gun, when Armin was shot in his mouth and the bullet went through the back of his head. It was hilariously bad; you grapple and put the gun in your mouth?”

Meanwhile, Fr. Edu Gariguez, 2012 Goldman Environmental Awardee and the executive secretary of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines-National Secretariat for Social Action said that the promulgation sends a bad signal for other activist that putting their lives into the line is tantamount only to a three-year imprisonment of the murderer.

“Let us not forget the subject of protest of Armin and the people on Sibuyan. They want the Sibuyan Nickel Development Properties Corporation to pull out their mining project and make Sibuyan Island a mining-free zone,” Gariguez added.

Gariguez asked: “People are crying out loud for justice – for Armin Marin and the Sibuyan Island – will it ever be heard? People risked their lives for the environment and no justice to be served. Ganun na lang ba yun?” (30)

—
Alyansa Tigil Mina (ATM) is an alliance of mining-affected communities and their support groups of NGOs/POs and other civil society organizations who are opposing the aggressive promotion of large-scale mining in the Philippines. The alliance is currently pushing for a moratorium on mining, revocation of Executive Order 270-A, repeal of the Mining Act of 1995 and the passage of the Philippine Mineral Resources Act a.k.a. Alternative Minerals Management Bill.

ATM Press Release
May 24, 2012

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[Press Release] Disclose All or Resign All! Genuine Cleansing of the Bureaucracy not a Telenovela of Elite Infighting

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Disclose All or Resign All! Genuine Cleansing of the Bureaucracy not a Telenovela of Elite Infighting

We have said it before and we will say it again. Give the Filipino people a chance for real reforms and meaningful cleansing of the rotting bureaucracy.

The impeachment of Corona is not enough. The process is a spectator sport for the Filipino masses who are neither senator judges nor members of the prosecution and defense panels. More so, it is atelenovela of elite infighting being used by the Aquino regime to consolidate its control of the state and to advance its economic interests.

In impeachment proceedings, the masses are being induced to take sides between two oppressors. They are made to choose the lesser evil among rival camps of the ruling elite, which is nothing more than a choice between hell and purgatory. By so doing, it fosters the illusion of democracy, of people’s participation in the affairs of the State.

But while the impeachment process is patently limited in its scope and objective and is being utilized by factions of the elite to pursue their self-serving economic and political agendas, it would inevitably open more meaningful questions. Its narrowness and limitation would provide exact arguments for the necessity of genuine and widespread reforms, and for other means of political activity that ensure public participation in the cleansing of the bureaucracy.

Hence, upon the opening of impeachment proceedings against Corona, we issued the “Disclose All” slogan, the demand for the full disclosure of all financial records and transactions by all government officials.

The beleaguered chief justice – who is more an astute politician than an honorable judge – knows this Achilles heel of the impeachment process. Hence, Corona is now piercing the veil of Noynoy’s anti-corruption pretense in order to save his skin as he challenges Senator Drilon and the 188 signatories of the impeachment case to “disclose all”. Truly, crooks know when to speak the truth to hide a lie.

We are neither “pro-Corona” nor “pro-Noynoy”. Both politicians are personifications of the social evil of a corrupt bureaucracy under an elite democracy. If government officials want to dispel public mistrust, they should let the sun shine into dark places. The broad masses of the people, not just the workers and the poor demand the public scrutiny of their private wealth.

If they could not “disclose all”, then they should all resign. And if the demand for “full disclosure” is continuously not met, the cry for “Resign All” would transform from an appeal for delicadeza into a call of action for their ouster. #

PRESS STATEMENT
Mayo 23, 2012
Bukluran ng Manggagawang Pilipino (BMP)
Partido Lakas ng Masa (PLM)
Sanlakas

Disclose All or Resign All!
Genuine Cleansing of the Bureaucracy not a Telenovela of Elite Infighting

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[Press Release] Because of mining ops, Lake Bito in Leyte turns brown -ATM

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Because of mining ops, Lake Bito in Leyte turns brown
Putting Fishers livelihood in real danger

MACARTHUR, LEYTE – At 7:00 o’clock in the morning, fishermen in Lake Bito, Brgy. Villa Imelda fell down on their knees after seeing that the lake that provides livelihood for them turned brown like a 3 in 1 coffee. This was after Nicua mine operations opened their settling pond where silt flowed straight to the lake.

“We saw right in front of us how the mine waste muddles up with our water. We were caught in shock. The water runs fast from the mining site to Pangunawan Creek to Lake Bito. The lake now looks dead” said Jesus Cabias, president of Unahin Lagi ang Diyos – Bito Lake Fisherfolks Association (UNLAD-BLFA).

The incident happened after Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resource (BFAR) Region VIII almost cleared NICUA mining company for the fish kill incident last April despite traces of oil and grease in the lake water. Following the fish skill that cause the death of more than 22 tons of tilapia, the community decided to block mining barges last April 30.

“Now, we no longer need any test. Just the mere sight of the lake is horrifying. They just have to come here, smell the water and feel it. We are just controlling our emotion at this time; people are crying out of frustration, we are angry. The fish kill and this is very hard for us because this is about our livelihood, our life, ’” Cabias added.

“This is a grave offense to people and to the environment,” said Jaybee Garganera, national coordinator of Alyansa Tigil Mina. “MacArthur magnetite mining is a clear threat to food security wherein fishery industry in Lake Bito is at stake as well as rice production in the area,’ he added.

The Aquino administration must not delay anymore its new mining policy. Mine catastrophe like this in Lake Bito adds to the growing evidence that there is no life in mining”. Garganera added that Aquino must distinguish himself from the previous government, whose mining legacy is still impacting negatively to FIlipinos.

Garganera claimed that magnetite mining in prime agricultural lands as well as in other areas such as in coastlines and offshore should be stopped considering the present threats of climate change and disasters.

‘The Mining Act of 1995 is not clear on the protection of our agricultural areas – mining is being permitted adjacent to productive farms or within ricefields. It gives mining companies full right over our water resources,’ claimed Garganera.

In a phone interview, Provincial Fisheries Officer Jose Siervo said that they will do their best to send an investigation team within the day to look over the matter.

Alyansa Tigil Mina (ATM) is an alliance of mining-affected communities and their support groups of NGOs/POs and other civil society organizations who are opposing the aggressive promotion of large-scale mining in the Philippines. (30)

Contact details:
Mr. Jesus Cabias, UNLAD Bito Lake Fisherfolks Association President – 0912.433.7768
Jaybee Garganera, ATM National Coordinator – 09277617602
Edel Garingan, ATM Media and Communication Officer – 09228918972

Press Release
May 12, 2012

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[Press Release] Teachers call DEPED attention on delayed clothing allowance -TDC

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Teachers call DEPED attention on delayed clothing allowance

The Teachers’ Dignity Coalition (TDC) called the attention of the Department of Education (DepEd) following reports on the delay of the teachers’ clothing and uniform allowance this year. According to the group, teachers from all over the country are complaining about the said delay.
Benjo Basas, a Caloocan City teacher and the group’s chairperson said that their Facebook page and email are bombarded by reports from teachers in the provinces and even from Metro Manila.

Basas said that in some divisions or cities some schools have already received the allowance while others have not like in Caloocan, and Quezon City. Still, some schools have released the full amount of P5000 while others have only released P4000.

Clothing and uniform allowance (C/UA) is an annual incentive for all the civilian government employees in the amount of P4000, but this year the amount was increased to P5000 and was given an allocation under the general appropriations act.
The DepEd earlier clarified that there could possibly be two releases, one for P4000 and another for the remaining P1000 since they are coming from different sources.

“We are aware that due to some technicalities and the bureaucratic process, the release of these kinds of allowance may suffer delays” Basas said.

“However, we want to call the attention of the DepEd on the reports that some school officials are asking clearance requirement from teachers before the release of their allowance which actually theirs.”
The group reiterated that there is no requirement needed for the release of clothing and uniform allowance as long as the teacher is qualified under the DBM Budget Circular 2012-1 released last February 23 and effective immediately.
_____________________________________________________
Reference: Benjo Basas, Chairperson, 0920-5740241/ 3853437

Teachers’ Dignity Coalition
“Unity of Teachers to Regain the Dignity of Teaching Profession”
SEC Registration Number: CN 2007-10645
117-C Matatag St., Bgy. Central, Quezon City
Hotline: (02)3853437 • Telefax (02)4350036 • Mobile: 0920-5740241/ 0920-4142614
Email: teachersdignity@yahoo.com.ph • Website: http://www.teachersdignity.com

NEWS RELEASE
April 17, 2012

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[Press Release] Groups hit Intex Resources response to OECD NCP Statement -ATM

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Groups hit Intex Resources response to OECD NCP Statement
Charged Intex of flawed consultation and non-transparency

Manila—Groups were dismayed upon Intex Resources Inc denial of proven allegations and findings of the Norwegian National Contact Point (NCP) that the company has failed to comply with OECD Guidelines on Multinational Enterprises.

“That is simply ridiculous that Intex would even claim the support of the people of Mindoro when we know that it was the people themselves who fought the struggle and opposed their mining project. We believe that the years of investigation have allowed the Norwegian NCP to validate their findings,” said Jaybee Garganera, national coordinator of Ayansa Tigil Mina.

Fr. Edu Gariguez, executive secretary of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines-National Secretariat for Social Action said that the church and people of Mindoro remained strong on its call to impede the project, “Obviously, Intex have closed ears on the result of NCP investigation and will continue to deceive even their own selves that the Mangyan communities in Mindoro will succumb to all their plans. We will keep on raising our voices that we do not want them to commence with this project, in fact they should have stopped already even before the revocation of their ECC.”

“If Intex will not recognize NCP’s investigation, P-Noy however should listen to the voice of its people and uphold their rights to protect their environment and respect their decision to forbid mining in their own land,” Fr. Edu added.

After the release of the Final Statement, Intex Resources entered into a memorandum of agreement with Chinese state-owned firm MCC8 but communities vow to fight against mining, whether they be Norwegian or Chinese, the people will never concede to development aggressions that will put their island and lives at risk.

“Intex should listen to what people want, they are the rightful owner of the land!” said Jon Sarmiento of Alyansa Laban sa Mina (ALAMIN).

“Intex has not received social acceptability from the people of Mindoro including the majority of the Indigenous Peoples community in the island. This is more than just a political reason as they say Intex should respect the regulations governing the utilization of its Ancestral Domains,” added Sarmiento

At the international level, campaigners issued a statement reiterating, “The national investigation revealed additional irregularities in Intex’s operations to those already identified by the NCP and recommended cancellation of its Environmental Clearance Certification on a series of technical grounds. It also raises issues with the lack of consent of the indigenous peoples and the fact that an Island wide moratorium on mining is in place rendering Intex’s project illegal unless declared otherwise by the Philippine judiciary.”

In January 23, ATM, CBCP-NASSA and ALAMIN launched a compendium of studies on the Mindoro struggle entitled “Mindoro Campaign: Protecting Island Ecology, Defending Peoples Rights”.

Alyansa Laban sa Mina (ALAMIN) is a network of civil society organizations, Church and local government units in Oriental Mindoro established in 1999 to consolidate peoples opposition to the Mindoro Nickel Project.

Alyansa Tigil Mina (ATM) is an alliance of mining-affected communities and their support groups of NGOs/POs and other civil society organizations who are opposing the aggressive promotion of large-scale mining in the Philippines. The organization is currently pushing for a moratorium on mining, revocation of Executive Order 270-A, repeal of the Mining Act of 1995 and the passage of the Philippine Mineral Resources Act a.k.a. Alternative Minerals Management Bill.

__
For more information:

Fr Edu Gariguez, CBCP-NASSA Executive Secretary, (0919) 800.55.95 <edugariguez@gmail.com>
Jaybee Garganera, ATM National Coordinator, (0927) 761.76.02 <nc@alyansatigilmina.net>
Farah Sevilla, ATM Policy Research & Advocacy Officer, (0915) 331.33.61 <policy@alyansatigilmina.net>

[Press Release] Immediate issuance of rational mining policy is necessary—Alyansa Tigil Mina

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Calls on PNoy to address issues faced by the mining industry

Alyansa Tigil Mina (ATM), a national anti-mining coalition, responds to Chamber of Mines of the Philippines (COMP) and Mindanao Business Council (MBC) negative reaction to an alleged ‘leaked’ draft Executive Order (EO) on the mining policy. The alliance reiterated the need for a rational mining policy that addresses environmental, social, economic and governance issues associated with mining.

Jaybee Garganera, national coordinator of Alyansa Tigil Mina said, “Contrary to the negative reaction of key players in the mining industry, we believe that a new executive order should be able to address pressing issues on the environment, especially now with the increased impacts of climate change and disasters experienced in the country.”

In the past two days, media has tackled a ‘leaked’ draft EO entitled “Institutionalizing and Implementing Reforms in the Philippine Mining Sector, Providing Policies and Guidelines Therefor, and For Other Purposes” where COMP and
MBC declared the death of the mining industry if signed and implemented.

Garganera added, “We have not seen this ‘leaked’ document but we hope that the Minerals Policy Review Group did their homework and considered the problems on deforestation and environmental protection, local government opposition to mining, and transparency and accountability.

We do not believe that any government policy should be labeled as ‘anti-mining’ simply because it does not favor the mining industry. We would like to pursue a rational mining policy that addresses the many problems raised since the aggressive promotion of mining in the Philippines,” he added.

Specifically, in its position paper ATM called on President Benigno Aquino, III to revoke Executive Order 270-A (signed in 2004) or the Revitalization of the Mining Industry. Some issues raised in the submission include the impacts of large-scale mining on asset reform gains, impairment on the rights of indigenous peoples, risks to our environment and natural resources, weakening of local autonomy and weak regulatory and governance mechanisms on the industry. There is also a need to address the social issues and human rights violations experienced in mining-hosted communities.

Alyansa Tigil Mina (ATM) is an alliance of mining-affected communities and their support groups of NGOs/POs and other civil society organizations who are opposing the aggressive promotion of large-scale mining in the Philippines. The alliance is currently pushing for a moratorium on mining, revocation of Executive Order 270-A, repeal of the Mining Act of 1995 and the passage of the Philippine Mineral Resources Act a.k.a. Alternative Minerals Management Bill.

Press Release
February 9, 2012

For more information:
Jaybee Garganera, ATM National Coordinator, (0927) 761.76.02 􀀀<nc@alyansatigilmina.net>
Farah Sevilla, ATM Policy & Advocacy Officer, (0915) 331.33.61 <policy@alyansatigilmina.net>

[People] Subic Coal Plant Getting Permits by Stealth? by Fr. Shay Cullen

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Subic Coal Plant Getting Permits by Stealth?

Wherever there is a coal-fired power plant, people get sick and die and the environment is damaged beyond repair. Coal is the dirtiest and most toxic form of power generation.

The people of Zambales, Bataan and Olongapo City vehemently oppose the proposed coal plant to be built on scenic Subic Bay and are asking what dirty coal deals have been made between the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and “The Power Company“, made up of Aboitiz Power Corporation, RP Energy, and the Taiwan Cogeneration Corporation (TCC) and the higher Philippine government officials who have allowed this to go forward?

The toxic fumes of the electricity-generating coal plant will cause many diseases especially among the children and the elderly. Despite the campaign of President Aquino for a transparent, clean nation, environment and good government, a dirty deal from the past administration is still going ahead in the SBMA and will bring shame and hurt to the President.

The three main provisions of the original Memorandum of Understanding set up under the corrupt Arroyo Administration have not been honored or implemented by the proponents of the coal plant. The agreement started out as a joint-partnership agreement between the SBMA, the Aboitiz Power Corporation, RP Energy, and the Taiwan Cogeneration Corporation (TCC), call them “The Power Company”. The government was to have a role as partner to monitor compliance with safety and health standards, but that has been eliminated.

The government is just a lessor of the public land for a measly give-away pittance, no more than US$3.50 a sq meter to be paid over 50 years. This is grossly detrimental to the public interest, it is worth vastly more than that and it smells of a corrupt sweetheart deal. The present SBMA board must rescind it.

The people will get nothing from the profits or the lease but will, in effect, pay for the plant which will damage them and their environment. The rich families will get richer and the poor will get very sick.

Another provision of the Memorandum of Understanding agreement was that “The Company” would assist local communities off-set any damage to the environment and reduce the health risk with “state of the art” technology. But no written commitment as to what would have been signed. Such health problems has been clearly forecast and acknowledged. A third provision agreed upon was that low-cost electricity would be supplied to the local communities and the SBMA. None of these will happen. The plant will sell all its power to the national grid.

As soon as the “The Company” got the Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) issued by higher authorities under strange and questionable circumstances, “The Company” failed to sign any binding contract with the SBMA. They failed to show any evidence of meeting the strict ECC standards. Inexplicably, they mysteriously got the final permit first. The SBMA officials issued a Permit to Operate (PTO) before the other necessary permits were issued. The requirements for a PTO apparently were waivered. Besides, all safety and design requirements needed to qualify for a Permit to Operate were allegedly not complied with.

Also the original project application stated that it would be a 300 Megawatt coal plant and now they are trying to get an extension of the ECC to double the project to 600 Megawatt plant. The ECC is only good for a 300 MW, it can’t cover a 600 MW. “The Company” must start again and follow the requirements to qualify for an ECC for a 600 MW. The ECC for a 300MW plant is null and void since they will build a 600 MW plant, a project with double the hazards to health and the environment.

The proponents of the coal plants are trying to push for “Clean coal”, “Green coal, Safe coal”, There is no such thing as clean coal and don’t believe the profit-hungry companies that tell you there is. All over the world, they are into coal plants for the money, big profits and all to be paid for by the tax payers.

Perhaps the government officials behind this coal plant are the saintly exceptions and will never take a single dollar in exchange for a signature. If they are indeed true and honest people of integrity with the best interests of the Filipino people at heart, they will join the protesting people and oppose the project and allow the alternative renewable energy projects to go ahead instead.

(Fr. Shay’s columns are published in The Manila Times,
in publications in Ireland, the UK, Hong Kong, and on-line.)
http://www.preda.org/en/news/fr-shays-articles/subic-coal-plant-getting-permits-by-stealth/

 

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[Press Release] Balakid si Corona sa pagpaparusa kay GMA, ayon sa magsasaka – Kasama-TK

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Balakid si Corona sa pagpaparusa kay GMA, ayon sa magsasaka
Impeachment ni Corona, suportado ng mga militanteng grupo

 Lumahok ang mga lider-magsasaka ng grupong Katipunan ng mga Samahang Magbubukid sa Timog Katagalugan (Kasama-TK) sa rali ng iba’t-ibang progresibong grupo sa harapan ng Senado para suportahan ang impeachment proceeding na magaganap laban kay Supreme Court Chief Justice Renato Corona.

Ayon sa grupo, “bukod-tanging balakid” si Corona sa pagpaparusa at pagpapakulong sa nagdaang gobyernong Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo (GMA), “kinakailangang managot ni GMA sa krimen nito sa mamamayan at ang Korte Suprema mismo ang nagiging tagapagtanggol niya para makaiwas sa mga pananagutan,” banggit ng grupo sa kanilang pahayag.

Si Corona ay pinaniniwalaang kabilang sa mga tinaguriang midnight appointee ng dating pangulong GMA at diumano’y iniluklok sa pwesto upang tiyakin na may maiiwang kontrol si GMA sa hudikatura kahit wala na siya sa Malakanyang.

Noong nakaraang taon naglabas ng mga pabor na desisyon para kay GMA ang Supreme Court kaugnay sa kasong electoral fraud kung kaya nanatiling nakakaiwas ang una sa tiyak na pagkakabilanggo.

“Ang mamamayang Pilipino ang pangunahing may interes na papanagutin at makulong si GMA dahil sa sangkaterbang krimen sa bayan ang kinasangkutan ng gobyernong GMA na nagpahirap lalo na sa aming mga maralita sa kanayunan,” ayon kay Pedro “Tata Pido” Gonzales, lider mula sa Timog Katagalugan.

Sa pahayag ng grupo, umabot sa halos 400-libong ektaryang lupain ang nasangkot sa pangangamkam at ilegal na conversion sa panahon ni GMA at may 156-libong mamamayan ang pinangangambahang mapalayas sa mga lupang-sakahan hanggang sa kasalukuyan.

Magkagayunman, nilinaw pa rin ng grupo na hindi nila suportado ang kasalukuyang pangulong Benigno Simeon “Noynoy” Aquino III.

“Alam naming maniobra lamang ng hasyenderong si Aquino ang pagpapatalsik kay Corona at pabalat-bunga ang dahilang sagabal ang Korte Suprema sa paglilitis kay GMA,” dagdag ni Gonzales.

“Ang ultimong layunin ni Aquino ay makuha ang kontrol sa Korte Suprema upang ikambyo ang mga desisyon ng hudikatura na taliwas sa kanyang interes, lalo na ang desisyong ipamahagi ang pag-aari niyang Hacienda Luisita sa mga benepisyaryo nito,” pagpapalawig pa ng pahayag ng Kasama TK.

Diumano, ayon sa grupo, ay hindi naman seryoso si Aquino na ipakulong si GMA bagkus ay naglalaro lamang ang Malakanyang sa maraming posibilidad pa ng political accomodation sa nagdaang gobyerno.

Inianunsyo rin ng Kasama-TK na sunud-sunod ang kanilang kilos-protesta para ipanawagang i-impeach si Corona, papanagutin at ipakulong si GMA, at ilantad ang katangian ni Aquino na walang pinagkaiba sa pinalitan nitong gobyerno.

Bago matapos ang linggo, nagpaplano ang grupo na mag-rali sa harapan ng Korte Suprema at Mendiola.

 

Press Release: January 16, 2012

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[Press Release] Akbayan vouches for HOR transparency

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 “Akbayan has always been transparent especially with respect to ensuring the people’s access to our sworn statements of assets, liabilities and networth.”

That was the statement of Akbayan Party following the PCIJ report of House members’ alleged refusal to publicize their statement of assets, liabilities and networth (SALN), likening Congress to Chief Justice Renato Corona.

“While the PCIJ’s intention is laudable, the story gave the impression that members of the House are withholding the release of their SALN to the media,” Akbayan Rep. Walden Bello commented. “In fact, the problem stems from administrative bottlenecks in the process of disclosure of SALN to the public.”

Bello also explained that his office readily responds to requests for a copy of his SALN.

“All that our friends in PCIJ needed to do was to approach our office directly, and we would have gladly provided them a copy of our SALN,” Bello added.

For Bello, it should be clear that Congress has always been very public about the wealth of its members.

“Alam nating lahat na taun-taon, naglalabas ng listahan ng mga Kongresistang naka-rank ayon sa kanilang mga pag-aari,” Bello said. “This is the very big difference between Congress and the Supreme Court when the issue is transparency. The Supreme Court has a separate resolution that limits the people’s access to Justices’ SALN, which CJ Corona has exploited. In Congress, we have nothing to hide. In fact, we support the release of the detailed SALN and not just its summary.”

Bello also said that the Silip SALN bill Akbayan filed in August 2011 proposes various measures for the release of the detailed SALN, effectively overcoming the administrative bottlenecks in the process of disclosure.

“The problem that PCIJ has identified is not the submission and release of docs but the existence of administratiev bottlenecks in the process of disclosure. The story should have been clear on this,” Bello reiterated.

“What this bottleneck reveals is the need for Congress to proactively eliminate the roadblocks to people’s free and unimpeded access to information,” Bello concluded. “And especially in the issue of the people’s right to scrutinize the wealth of government officials, it is high time we work on passing the Silip SALN Bill.”

PRESS RELEASE

For Immediate Release
11 January, 2011

[Press Release] “PALEA 300” seeks dismissal of violation of CAAP law case – PALEA

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 In a hearing yesterday at the Pasay Hall of Justice, members of the Philippine Airlines Employees Association (PALEA) asked the city prosecutors to dismiss the violation of Civil Aviation Authority (CAAP) law case filed by the management against them in the aftermath of the September 27, 2011 protest that crippled the operations of Philippine Airlines (PAL). In an allusion to the mythical Spartans, PALEA President Gerry Rivera declared that “The respondents to the case, the PALEA 300 are brave men and women who will die fighting instead of surrendering to tyranny by PAL.”

The PAL management alleged in its complaints that PALEA members caused the destruction of some airline equipments during their September 27 protest, a charge vehemently denied by the union. The actual respondents to the case are 258 but PAL in previous press releases has claimed that some 300 PALEA members joined the September 27 protest.

In a picket to coincide with the hearing, PALEA insisted that the case was part of the many harassment cases thrown at PALEA members after the union strongly opposed PAL’s outsourcing plan. The next hearings are scheduled for February 2 and 9.

“We eat PAL harassment cases for breakfast, lunch and dinner,” stated Rivera. He claimed that “PAL is blindly shooting nuisance cases at PALEA members in a desperate bid to force them to accept the separation package and sign up for the illegal labor contractors Sky Logistics and Sky Kitchen. Some of the 258 named respondents were active participants in protests before and after September 27 but were on day off that fateful day.”

The union asserts that no company equipment was ever damaged during the September 27 protest. Instead the union knows that it was the improper use of an airstep by an inexperienced and unskilled scab that caused an accident where an Airbus A340 with aircraft ID 3430 plane door was dented.

Rivera asserts further that PAL services deteriorated sharply after September not because of damaged equipments but due to lack of skilled and experienced manpower after PALEA members, in opposition to contractualization/outsourcing, refused to transfer to assigned service providers.

“Up to now, more than three months after the outsourcing, passenger complaints of faulty services by contractual scabs working at PAL are piling up. It is therefore not the equipments but the flag carrier’s reputation that is being badly damaged,” declared Rivera.

PALEA insists that PAL’s waning reputation and deteriorating quality service can only be saved by getting its regular workers back. Supporters of PALEA are calling for a boycott of PAL and its sister company Air Philippines until the laid off workers are reinstated to their regular jobs.

PRESS RELEASE
11 January 2012
Contact: Gerry Rivera
09157755073

[Press Release] Labor rights under P-Noy: Large gap between declared policy and implementation- Partido ng Manggagawa

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A large gap between declared policies and implementation characterize the conduct of the present administration in upholding the constitutional mandate of providing full protection to labor, the labor group Partido ng Manggagawa (PM) said in a statement as the country celebrates the International Human Rights Day.

PM chair Renato Magtubo find the current state of labor rights “very depressing” under the present administration as “P-Noy is all talk but zero achievement in upholding labor rights.”

Magtubo pointed out that when P-Noy assumed office in July last year, he carried with him a 22-Point Labor & Agenda with a declared policy in promoting employment and upholding labor rights.  The agenda has an an over-arching goal of “investing in our country’s top resource, our human resource, to make us more competitive and employable while promoting industrial peace based on social justice.”

The labor leader explained that Item No. 3 of the said Agenda aims “to promote not only the constitutionally protected rights of workers but also their right to participate in the policymaking processes”, while Item No. 7 seeks “to align  our country’s labor policies with international treaties and ILO conventions in a sound and realistic manner.”

Asked Magtubo: “Where is P-Noy now after declaring those big words 17 months ago? Where is P-Noy now after Lucio Tan locked out the 2,600 workers of PAL who were fighting for their constitutionally guaranteed rights?  Where is industrial peace based on social justice? ”

The labor group added that even the recent Conference of the International Labor Organization (ILO) held in Kyoto reminded both businesses and governments to prioritize long-term over short term employment.  The ILO’s Decent Work Framework which promotes equal opportunity and gainful employment was adopted by the Philippine government several years ago.

“Yet P-Noy’s labor secretary Rosalinda Baldoz who was present at the conference and who decided in favour of Lucio Tan in the PAL case, defended the outsourcing and contractualization as a necessary policy,” lamented Magtubo,

The former partylist representative said the PAL issue had become a litmus test to P-Noy and this unresolved issue of social justice will continue to hound his administration whose popularity is mainly bolstered by a populist campaign on anti-corruption. ###
PRESS RELEASE
Partido ng Manggagawa
10 December 2011
Contact:  Renato Magtubo
09178532095

[People] 2011 Right to Education Situation: Philippines (1st of 3 series) by Renato G. Mabunga, Ph.D.

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By Renato G. Mabunga, Ph.D.

Introduction:

The 1987 Philippine Constitution speaks elaborately of the right to education.  It vows to “…protect and promote the right of all citizens to quality education at all levels, and… take appropriate steps to make such education accessible to all… (1987 Philippine Constitution, Article XIV).  In principle, the Philippines takes cognizance of the normative characteristics or elements by which the right to education is founded namely: quality education, accessibility of the right and non-discrimination.  By being so, bonded itself to the obligatory nature in realizing the right both legally and politically.

The Philippine, as a state signatory to various instruments providing normative contents to the right to education, is bound by all these treaties and declarations to provide legislative as well as administrative frameworks for the realization of this right.  It must concretize its commitment to promote, protect and fulfill human rights in its development plans.

Politically, according to the Right to Education Project (2008), right to education is also an enabling right.  It “creates the “voice” through which rights can be claimed and protected’, and without education people lack the capacity to ‘achieve valuable functionings as part of the living.”[i] The state is therefore, impelled to muster political will for the realization of this right.  This is the framework by which we shall revisit the state of Philippine Education in the year 2011.

P-Noy’s Education Reform Agenda:

Year 2011 is a witness to a heightened debate on reforming the Philippine Education System.  It also marks the initial implementation of the Administrations Education Reform Agenda.  In February 2010, Benigno Simeon Aquino III, before the gathering of more than 500 University presidents said: “My education team has designed a way to go from our current 10 years to a K-12 system in five years starting in school year 2011-2012.  Kindergarten to Grade 12 is what the rest of the world gives their children.  I will expand the basic education cycle in the country from a short and insufficient 10-year cycle to a globally comparable 12-year cycle before the end of the next administration.”[ii]  He urged both private and university leaders to join him in the achievement of his 10-point reform Agenda for Education, namely:[iii]

1. 12-year Basic Education Cycle:  expanding basic education cycle, from a 10-year cycle to a globally comparable 12 years for the public school children.
2. Universal pre-schooling for all: preschool is required to all public school children as their introduction to formal schooling by 2016.
3. Madaris education as a sub-system within the education system: full basic education for all Muslim Filipino children adaptive to their culture while providing a sound curriculum in English, Filipino, science, and math. Madaris education, with subjects in Arabic language and Islamic values education, can be integrated in our public school curriculum as additional subjects.
4. Technical vocational education as an alternative stream in senior high school.  Reintroduction of technical-vocational education in public high schools aimed at linking schooling to local industry needs and employment.
5. “Every child a reader” by Grade 1”.  By the end of the next administration (SY 2015-16), every child passing pre-school must be a reader by Grade 1.
6. Science and Math proficiency:  Schools buildings and infrastructure for science and math in schools to fan the field towards producing more scientists, engineers, technicians, technologists and teachers and to be more globally competitive in industry and manufacturing.
7. Assistance to private schools as essential partners in basic education: Expansion of government assistance to private education to provide alternative learning institutions for children.
8. Medium of instruction rationalized:  Becoming trilingual nation: Learn English well and connect to the world; learn Filipino well and connect to the country; retain dialect and connect with own heritage.
9. Quality textbooks:  Textbooks will be judged by three criteria: quality, better quality, and more quality. Poor quality textbooks have no place in schools.
10. Covenant with the local governments to build more schools: building of schools in areas where there are no public or private schools in partnership with local governments, as well as address the persistent classroom and teacher shortages. Schools must have smaller populations so that teachers, students and parents can form a real learning community.

Read full article @ renatomabunga.wordpress.com

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[Press Release] Human Rights is the Way to Peace– Bishop Gerardo Alminaza

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In his statement for the December 10, 2011 human rights day celebration, Jaro Auxiliary Bishop and Visayas Clergy Discernment Group (VCDG) Head Convenor Bishop Gerardo Alminaza said that the defense and promotion of human rights is the way to achieve peace.

Bishop Alminaza condemned the culture of death and impunity as shown by the extra-judicial killings, Maguindanao massacre, and killing of innocent civilians in the war in Mindanao and the rest of the country.

He asserted that environmental destruction, landlessness, homelessness and joblessness are violations of the people’s right to development.

Quoting papal encyclicals and other church documents, Bishop Alminaza said that the defense of human rights or of the dignity of the human person will promote justice and equality, which in turn, will build lasting peace, since “Peace is the fruit of justice.”

“A just society can become a reality only when it is based on the respect of the transcendent dignity of the human person.”

Bishop Alminaza also explained that the people themselves must be the “principal architects of their own social and economic development,” and the role of civil authorities is to facilitate the exercise of the “people’s rights and duties” for the common good.

He asked government officials to become genuine servants of the people by promoting human rights and by not seeking personal benefits or prestige.

As “peace is not a mere absence of war”, Bishop Alminaza called on concerned groups and institutions, that in the peace talks, foremost to be addressed must be the defense and promotion of human rights.

Bishop Alminaza emphasized that the church involves in the “just ordering of society” through the promotion of human rights, since God revealed himself in the Old Testament as the “liberator of the oppressed and the defender of the poor.”

He also exhorts the faithful to offer prayers, sacrifices, and good works on December 10, Human Rights Day, which is also the 63rd anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

For reference:

BISHOP GERARDO A. ALMINAZA, D.D.
Auxiliary Bishop of Jaro, and Head Convenor of Visayas Clergy Discernment Group
Tel. No. (033) 3291625

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The HRonlinePH.com launch and Winners of Pinduteros Awards 2011

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Dr. Renato Mabunga welcomes bloggers and networks. Photo by Rommel Yamzon

Bloggers’ network and various human rights organizations in the Philippines launch HRonlinePH movement and portal on 1st December 2011 at Crystal Ship Café, Quezon City.  Started as a simple discussion of ideas of promoting human rights online, a group of enthusiastic bloggers and human rights defenders found each other, shared information on human rights and formed HROnlinePH.   Today, it finds its niche as an effective resource on the country’s human rights condition.

Internet and social media play an important role in information-communication today.  There has been an upsurge in the number of sites, and now HRonlinePH joins the larger movement of electronic campaign.  HRonlinePH draws its activities through individual opinions of bloggers, facebook members, and twitters’ network on current Philippine issues.  It is also highlighted by facilitation of various statements, position papers and campaign advocacies of organizations of various political traditions and affiliations to land a spot in both the print media and the digital world.  It interfaces with the other human rights websites and resources online, and organizational identity in an attempt to promote an issue that best captures international human rights principles.

HROnlinePH (or Human Rights Online Philippines) is a movement specialized to promoting and protecting human rights in the Philippines through Information Resources Online.  As a movement, it may fan a successful revolution as exemplified by the Arab Spring.  Yet, it knows so well, that it is not THE revolution where human rights may find its place in the hearts of the States.  It  may be a part; it can be a part; and for HRonlinePH, it must be an essential part of winning a battle for the dignity of persons.

Visit the site, link your blogs, send your opinions and positions on Philippine issues from the optic of human rights to http://www.HRonlinePH.com [by Boyet Mabunga]

——————————————————————

The launch was co-sponsored by Faith Based Congress Against Immoral Debt (FCAID), Philippine Human Rights Information Center (PhilRights), Alyansa Tigil Mina (ATM) and Childrens’ Legal Rights and Development (CLRD).

Winners of Pinduteros Awards

Top Ten Most clicked/visited blogger

1.    dars0357.wordpress.com
2.    olegs87.wordpress.com
3.    politicsforbreakfast.blogspot.com
4.    anthonygaupo.wordpress.com
5.    anakngdesaparecidos.wordpress.com
6.    koihernandez.wordpress.com
7.    rodrigo75.wordpress.com
8.    rommelyamzon.blogspot.com
9.    afadsecretariat.wordpress.com
10.    bromart.multiply.com

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1.    [Statement] Statement on the proposed amendments to Republic Act 9344 – CLAN
2.    Rights groups slam Palace decision on PAL spin-off, support workers
3.    Cagayan residents rally against black sand mining, Mining company issued a permit without public hearing
4.    Urban Poor Ask Supreme Court to Order Compliance of RA 7279 in Manila Bay Clean Up
5.    CHR statement on AFP torture caught on video and posted on youtube- Commission on Human Rights
6.    [Statement] Is the Philippines violating the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP)? –
7.    [Press Release] Romblon agriculture gets a boost from Secretary Alcala
8.    [Press Release] Longest Temporary Environmental Restraining Order (TEPO) against Marcventures Mining Development Corp. First in Philippine Mining History!
9.    Labor groups condemn P-Noy’s decision on PAL, will support PALEA’s planned strike for job security and CBA
10.    Congress urged to swiftly pass Anti-Enforced Disappearance Bill

TOP Blogger’s posts

1.    [Blogger] Beyond Contraception or Abortion: Passing RH Bill 4424 -Dekonztruktschon
2.    [Blogger] PNoy’s 2nd SONA, So what’s new? – Carpe Diem
3.    [Blogger] K-12 Challenge to Philippine Tertiary Education – Dekonztruktschon
4.    [Isyung HR] ang mga SANA sa SONA ni PNoy
5.    [Isyung HR] Isyung RH ay isyung HR
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[Press Release] Teachers hail DBM on P-noy bonus- TDC

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PUBLIC SCHOOL TEACHERS express gratitude to DBM for granting them the traditional Christmas Bonus for this year. DBM secretary Butch Abad on Monday submitted the proposal which seeks to provide funds for the Productivity Enhancement Incentive (PEI) for all teachers and government employees to President Aquino for approval.

“We are thankful that the government heard our appeal for this traditional bonus which we enjoyed in the past,” said Benjo Basas, Caloocan City teacher and TDC’s national chairperson. “We further hope that said bonus will be given on time” he continued.

In previous years, PEI, formerly known as Performance Bonus (PerfB) is given not earlier than December 15.

According to Abad’s pronouncement, teachers and other government employees shall be entitled to a one-time bonus in the full amount of P10, 000 which shall be appropriated by the DBM. Since the year 2007, said incentive is coming from two sources- the DBM allocation amounting to P7, 000 and the remaining P3, 000.00 shall be from the savings of respective agencies.

“This is the first time that the government will release this allowance from single source which we also recognize so as to avoid disparity.” Basas furthered. According to him, “In the past, some agencies may not have enough savings to fund the P3, 000 agency share like in the case of DepEd in year 2007.”

According to the group, this traditional bonus is also “traditionally delayed.”

“We expect this PEI to be released in our respective schools on time, however, we anticipate the possible delay as in the past. We just hope that it will be given at least before Christmas vacation.

Most of the time, teachers receive their Christmas bonus after Christmas or even after New Year celebration which practically defeats the purpose of this incentive.” Basas explained.

This incentive is not a regular benefit but a presidential prerogative. In the year 2005 and 2006 the government, under PGMA gave its employees P5000 and P6000 PerfB, respectively, while for the year 2007 up to last year the employees received P10, 000 cash gift. It was in 2009 that the DBM called it PEI. But the teachers fondly name the Christmas incentive after the president, thus, during Ramos’ time it was “Amelioration” after the then first lady Amelita Ramos; during Estrada’s, they called it “Eraption” and “Glorification” during the time of PGMA. Since last year, it is called P-Noy Bonus.

Basas clarifies that more than monetary benefits, performance bonus and other incentives would be a manifestation of government’s recognition to the efforts of men and women who work for its daily operation.

“At any rate, we are thankful that the government continued this tradition.” Basas ended.

Reference: Benjo Basas, Chairperson, 0920-5740241/ 3853437
Teachers’ Dignity Coalition
“Unity of Teachers to Regain the Dignity of Teaching Profession”
SEC Registration Number: CN 2007-10645
117-C Matatag St., Bgy. Central, Quezon City
Hotline: (02)3853437 • Telefax (02)4350036 • Mobile: 0920-5740241/ 0920-4142614
Email: teachersdignity@yahoo.com.ph • Website: http://www.teachersdignity.com

NEWS RELEASE
December 2, 2011

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