Gordon to students: Learn to protect yourself

SENATOR Richard Gordon said all students should learn to predict, plan, prepare and practice to ensure their safety against all kinds of security threats wherever they are.

During the first national student safety and school security conference at the World Trade Center, Gordon, chairman of the Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC), said that to ensure students’ safety and security the students themselves must learn what to do in every emergency situation.

“No one will take care of you better than yourself. You really have to learn to protect and take care of yourself. We at the Red Cross, we have volunteers in every barangay so that whenever there is a disaster they can learn to predict, they can plan, prepare and practice, so that they can cope, mitigate, relieve and eventually, rehabilitate,” he told the students from different colleges in Metro Manila who were present at the conference.

The PNRC under Gordon’s leadership has created the Red Cross 143, which is a group of volunteers in every barangay who will serve as the eyes, ears, hands and feet of the Red Cross in every community.

The duties of the members of the Red Cross 143 include: (1) Predict possible threats in the community; (2) Plan what to do in times of disasters; (3) Prepare the community for what it would need; (4) Practice or conduct first aid trainings and emergency evacuation drills; (5) Report instantly to the Red Cross pertinent information about the disaster; and (6) Respond immediately to those in need. By: Marlon Purificacion - Journal online

Gordon eyes telcos tycoon Pangilinan as his VP

Senator Richard Gordon is eyeing telecommunications tycoon Manuel V. Pangilinan to be his running mate or even the presidential candidate of the senator’s political party, which would create the latest intriguing pair for the May 2010 polls.

The tandem would combine Pangilinan's wealth and vast communications network with Gordon's political experience and savvy. But the senator said that it's not Pangilinan's money he is after. The corporate taipan was not returning calls but is reportedly still weighing his political options.

“Gusto ko si Manny Pangilinan. Gusto ko kasi may continuity [sa mga proyekto ng government]. Kasi wala rin akong pera, pero hindi ko gagamitin ang pera niya, gusto ko gagawa ng pera para sa tao (I want Manny Pangilinan because I want continuity in government projects. I don’t have the money, but I will not use his money, I want to make money for the people). Manny can help me do that," Gordon told reporters at GMA’s “Tatakbo Ka Ba?" in The Fort in Taguig City after he and 12 other political aspirants pledged not to cheat.

Pangilinan is the chairman of the Philippine Long Distance Telephone (PLDT) group, including Smart Communications, Inc., the country's leading mobile communications company. Pangilinan was on Forbes Magazine's list of 40 richest Filipinos in both 2007 and 2008, but was dropped from the list in 2009. Yet he is still widely considered one of the country's savviest deal makers and has long been rumored to be taking over major media companies, the latest of which is the Philippine Star.

Gordon said he had asked Pangilinan about the prospect of being his running mate and even told the latter that he can be the standard bearer of Bagumbayan Party if he wants to. Pangilinan said he would think things over, according to Gordon.

“Nag-iisip siya, nag-iisip kami," he said. Gordon and Pangilinan were classmates at the Ateneo de Manila University.

“Si Manny sanay sa business pero 'pag pumasok ka sa gobyerno kung wala kang experience, papaikutin ka dyan kaya mas maganda kung mauna ako, susunod siya at hahanap kami ng kapalit para sa third round ng change (Manny may be adept in business but if you are inexperienced in politics, you will be given the run-around so it is better that I take the lead and he be my running mate). And once you have continued change, then you are going to have a changed country," Gordon said.

Gordon served as an Olongapo City mayor, Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority chairman, Tourism secretary, and is the current Philippine National Red Cross chairman, aside from being a senator. - AMITA LEGASPI, GMANews.TV

Gordon-Pangilinan for 2010? Sen. Gordon on Sunday floated the idea of having Manuel Pangilinan as his running mate, or even his party's standard bearer, in 2010. Joe Galvez (Gordon)/ GMANews.TV file photo (Pangilinan)

Gordon: RP still needs VFA

Senator Richard J. Gordon (Ind.) today said he is against the abrogation of the visiting forces agreement (VFA) stressing that the country still needs the support of the United States (US) military especially on the training of their local counterparts.

Calls for the cancellation of the VFA mounted again due to reports that the US forces participate in actual combat, which is a violation of the treaty. But Gordon said there is no need for a hasty decision to halt the agreement. "We should not be emotional about this issue. Let us study this carefully. I'll be frank, I would say we still need this agreement, our military needs it, and our country benefits from it," he said.

"On whether the US soldiers are engaged in combat operations, I do not know about that, but we have to have proof. If the American soldiers would go out there and participate in actual combat, that is prohibited. They are supposed to train our soldiers and they should not be engaged in any firefight unless they are in immediate danger," he added.

The senator explained that any move to cancel the VFA should be studied carefully because the agreement is actually beneficial not only to the military but also to the humanitarian needs of the country.

Gordon pointed out that aside from teaching new military strategies and providing new technologies to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the US military, through the VFA, also shares its knowledge and capacity to respond to different kinds of security challenges, such as terrorism, pandemics, natural disasters and transnational crimes.

He noted that the military, together with US soldiers, helped civilian rescuers after the entire village of St. Bernard in Guinsaugon, Southern Leyte, disappeared under mudslides on February 17, 2006.

Also, following the onslaught of Typhoon "Frank" in 2008, US troops delivered food and water and dispatched aircraft and medics to help the people of Panay who were badly affected by the disaster.

"We should also consider the fact that the US military has been there to help us even during disasters. They were there when the tragedy in Guinsaugon happened. We used their equipment, they provided relief materials. They help our military and they help our people," the senator said.

Mercenaries training in Subic?

Blackwater, the dreaded security contractors who have wreaked havoc in Iraq, has presence in Pakistan, Afganistan and training facilities in undisclosed locations (including Clark and Subic in the Philippines?)... an online report said

Simple news search revealed latest articles about the company such as the links below:

http://subicbaynews.blogspot.com/search?q=blackwater

Blackwater's 'Merchants of Death'

The Nation: Blackwater Armed And Dangerous In Iraq

Blackwater Used by the CIA in Assassination Program

CIA hired Blackwater for killings, claims report

After Iraq, Blackwater Haunts Afghans

Congresswoman: US ties with Xe, formerly Blackwater, must end

CIA discloses program to train Blackwater agents, assassins

Blackwater should be blacklisted

Blackwater training mercenaries in Subic

By Alcuin Papa

Philippine Daily Inquirer

An investigative report circulating online said the American military contractor Blackwater was training “mercenaries” of various nationalities, including Filipinos, at the Subic free port in Olongapo City.

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Administrator Armand Arreza, however, quickly denied the story.

In a video story posted August 28 on the Russia Today website, American investigative journalist Wayne Madsen claimed Satelles Solutions, a Blackwater subsidiary, was using a five-acre facility in the former United States naval base to train operatives for secret US-backed military operations in Iraq, Afghanistan and other hot spots.

Blackwater, founded by a former US Navy Seal in North Carolina, has been denounced in some US media as being America’s “private army.” It does jobs for the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA).

Interviewed on Russia Today, Madsen asked: “Who gave them permission? Apparently it’s against the Philippine Constitution to station foreign troops in the country ... someone is running around the Constitution of the Philippines. Obviously this is done with the permission of the president of the Philippines,” Madsen said.

He claimed the country was now a “major operating base” for the Blackwater subsidiary.

Madsen alleged the Subic facility could train up to 1,000 operatives. He also claimed that other US companies linked to former US Vice President Dick Cheney had also opened a shooting range at the former Clark Air Base.

In 2007, Blackwater denied it was opening a facility in the Philippines. “We are no longer pursuing a facility in the Philippines,” Anne Tyrrell, a company spokesperson, had said.

Madsen’s report indicates the company went ahead using a subsidiary company.

In a phone interview with the Philippine Daily Inquirer, Arreza denied Blackwater was maintaining any kind of facility in the SBMA.

“There is no facility for any military training by Blackwater or any such company,” Arreza said.

The only facility for any kind of military-style training here is the Philippine National Police Leadership School, he said.

He admitted that Blackwater submitted a proposal to set up a training facility in Subic three years ago.

“But this request never materialized. We want to develop the SBMA for commercial and industrial uses. We felt that the request (of Blackwater) went against our charter.”

He also said he was willing to open the facility to inspection or investigation. “There are no restrictions here. Anyone can enter the SBMA.”

4 Comments on the issue:

i'm an active military personnel, viewing from the way we soldiers and policemen live, i don't see why most of us would opt to be a mercenary. same hardship, same risks but higher pay and better future for our families.

when lowly soldiers and policemen die in the field or streets, their families are left to starve. so with retirement, we've not enough sum of money to put up even a modest house at the age of 56, kung sabagay, kaya ako nagsundalo dahil sa hirap ng buhay, bakit kaya di ako mag-mercenary?

By Anonymous

because of competitive employment and lack of it,i chose to become a soldier, yet it seems that even with the salary the government gives, it's not enough to raise a family.what we are receiving as enlisted personnels is what we call us "bachelor's fee".

i think it better if our country will allow us to choose our means of employment, since we are fully aware of the dangers that will confront us,and it will be a much easier job because it's not our own race that we will pursue. it would be better for us to die in our line of work that provides us and our families financial securities, than here in our country that if something happened to you the families you left will be neglected by the government and just starve..

where can you see a government negotatiating with the terrorists?..and for the record you may not hear it blatantly but if there is another uprise movement a lot of us will support it..so sen. biazon stop being a hypocrite, your only saying those because your already in the middle-class living..enough of the traditions and customs,only a few benefits from it, they are also the one's who are destroying it..

By Anonymous

i'm an active military personnel, viewing from the way we soldiery live, i don't see why most of us would opt to be a mercenary. same hardship, same risks but higher pay and better future for our families. when lowly soldiers and die in the field or streets, their families are left to starve.

Bakit kasi ang mga politiko da pilipinas mas yadong matalino kaya sila hindi mag ka sundo, pati itong magandang trabaho na dumarating ayaw nilang payagan ang mga pilipino na umasinso gusto nila sila ang yayaman, takot kasi sila na maubos na ang mga pilipino sa pinas wala ng mag ttrabaho at papakain sa kanila, kala kung sinong silang matalino,, hindi naman nila kayang ayusin ang gulo sa pilipinas...kung sa bagay kahit nag gulo nila hindi nila kayang ayusin mga bobo ang politiko sa pilipinas......bopol kayo mga tarantado pa kayo..umaasa lang kayo sa taong bayan mga bweset kayo... kayo dapat ang tawaging mga patay gutom..umasa sa taong bayan.. kaya ako nagsundalo dahil sa hirap ng buhay, bakit kaya di ako mag-mercenary? takot silang maubos ang pilipino sa pinas....politiko boboooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo........... .................kayong lahat......... .......

By Rey

In a nation that has not been able to fully utilize the former U.S. Navy facility in Subic Bay in over seventeen years now; why in the hell would they turn down such an investment from a billion dollar company which could bring life to that region of Bataan again, and make it a world class training facility for S.E. Asia's Security profession.

Why do hungry people turn away opportunity that feeds their extended families ?

Follow SoKor’s lead — Gordon

SEN. Richard Gordon yesterday called on Filipinos to emulate South Korea, which has emerged as one of Asia ’s great nations today despite the devastation wreaked by the Korean War in the 1950’s. Gordon, speaking at the Korean embassy’s celebration of the 60th year of bilateral relations between the Philippines and South Korea , said the Filipinos, like the Koreans, should learn to choose the right leaders who will bring out the best in the people to achieve the same level of progress and development they are now enjoying. “I’d like to congratulate the Korean people for after having weathered the bitter war in the 50s, it was able to rise to become one of the mighty nations in Asia . It is my hope that we will become even closer through the years and try to make sure that all of us achieve the same level of progress and development that can provide dignity; and certainly pride and satisfaction for both our peoples,” he said. “Dapat ay maging katulad din tayo ng mga kapitbahay natin sa Asya, lalo na sa Korea sapagkat kaya ng Pilipino na gawin ang ginagawa nila. Kailangan lang may disiplina at mahusay na liderato. Kaya dapat matuto tayong pumili ng mahuhusay na lider ng sa gayon ang ating bayan ay magkaroon din ng magandang halimbawa at lumakas tayo,” he added. Gordon also extended his condolences to the Korean government on the death of its former President Kim Dae-Jung last Aug. 18, adding that he and Sen. Benigno Aquino were similar because they both fought an autocratic rule. “The Senate of the Republic of the Philippines expresses its deepest condolences on his passing away last Aug. 18. We consider President Kim Dae-Jung a real leader, and what we might call one of Asia ’s foremost Freedom Fighters not unlike Sen. Benigno Aquino and President Cory Aquino,” he said. The Senate recently adopted Gordon’s Senate Resolution 1326, which expressed the Senate’s sincere condolences on the former Korean leader’s death. Gordon noted that President Kim devoted himself to the task of economic recovery and managed to pull the country back from the brink of bankruptcy. By: Marlon Purificacion - Peoples Journal Online

Orozco Again Bags Top Resident Ombudsman Award

Mayor James “Bong” Gordon Jr. extended his commendations for City Legal Officer Atty. Angelito Orozco at the flag raising ceremonies held last August 24, 2009 at the Rizal Triangle Multi-Purpose Covered Court.

This is connection with Orozco’s feat as 2009 “Most Outstanding Resident Ombudsman” given by the Association of Resident Ombudsmen in Government Agencies (AROGA-Philippines).

Atty. Orozco bagged the feat and was also elected as National Executive Vice-President of AROGA by the 228 resident ombudsmen and 104 chiefs of offices of local government units of the Philippines who convened last August 17-19, 2009 at the Grand Men Seng Hotel in Davao City .

Ombudsman Merceditas N. Gutierrez awarded the certificates of recognition to Orozco and presided the oath-taking ceremonies of the newly elected officials of AROGA.

“As a resident ombudsman, we are tasked to study systems and procedures vulnerable to corruption and make recommendations to improve them; report anomalies, irregular acts, unethical conduct or illegal activities committed by the officials and employees of the offices where they are assigned and in the gathering of evidence in the investigations of the same,” Orozco explained.

It can be recalled that Orozco also bagged the same award last year at the 1st National Convention of Resident Ombudsmen held at Baguio City. Atty. Orozco also authored the constitution and by-laws of AROGA-Philippines and served as the Executive Vice President for Luzon of the said organization.


Mayor Bong Gordon proudly displays the certificate of recognition of City Legal Officer Atty. Lito Orozco (standing right), as the ‘’Most Outstanding Resident Ombudsman’’ for the second consecutive year of the Association of Resident Ombudsman in Government Agencies (AROGA-Philippines) before officials and employees of the city government during the flag raising ceremonies on August 24, 2009 at the Rizal Triangle Multi-Purpose Center.

Pao/sara

IMMEDIATE IMPLEMENTATION OF TELECOM INTERCONNECTION IN SBF & ZAMBALES SOUGHT

2009 R - 116 - ENJOINING ALL TELECOM SERVICE PROVIDERS IN OLONGAPO CITY, SUBIC BAY FREEPORT AND ZAMBALES TO IMMEDIATELY IMPLEMENT TELECOM INTERCONNECTION

2009 R - 116 - A RESOLUTION ENJOINING ALL TELECOM SERVICE PROVIDERS IN OLONGAPO CITY, SUBIC BAY FREEPORT AND ZAMBALES TO IMMEDIATELY IMPLEMENT THE NATIONAL TELECOMMUNICATION COMMISSION MEMORANDUM CIRCULAR 09-07-2007 OTHERWISE KNOWN AS THE INTERCONNECTION OF LOCAL EXCHANGE CARRIERS

Follow link to read full text of resolution

2009 R - 117- EXPRESSING PROFOUND GRATITUDE AND APPRECIATION TO MAYOR HAGEDORN AND MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL AND THE PEOPLE OF PUERTO PRINCESA

2009 R - 117 - A RESOLUTION EXPRESSING PROFOUND GRATITUDE AND APPRECIATION TO HON. EDWARD S. HAGEDORN, CITY MAYOR, HON. MIKE CUADERNO, HON. REBECCA LABIT, HON. FELIBERTO OLIVEROS III, CITY COUNCILORS AND MEMBERS OF TE CITY COUNCIL AND THE PEOPLE OF PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, PALAWAN FOR THE CORDIAL WELCOME AND ACCOMODATION ACCORDED TO THE OLONGAPO CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS AND THE STAFF HEADED BY CITY VICE-MAYOR, CYNTHIA G. CAJUDO

Hanjin delivers 5th ship order to Egyptian firm

HANJIN heavy industries Corp.-Philippines (HHIC-Phil) has delivered five of the 10 ship orders of an Egyptian shipping firm, showing a healthy business despite the ongoing global economic downturn.

While other major shipyards have opted to cease operations, Hanjin shipyard in Subic continues with its shipbuilding activities, according to a source from the Subic Bay Metropolotan Authority (SBMA) who requested anonymity because he was not authorized to speak on the matter.

Hanjin sees opportunity in offshore repairs, through the available facility at the Subic shipyard. Conventional and offshore vessels can now be built in Subic.

"It wasn't possible for us because of harware matters but since the completion of our new shipyard, now we are able to enter into the offshore plant business. As productivity increases in Subic, it's providing us with mire opportunity for new challenges," said a Hannjin spokesperson.

However, HHIC still has some unsolved problems. They have to secure a design team for the offshore plant development, for alliances with external engineering groups in order to intensify their offshore technology.

"We know that we got into the business late compared to other competing yards but HHIC developed Korea's first drillship in 1977 and the idea behind the Floating Production, Storage and Offloading vessel (FPSO) of today is based on that model, so with our accumulated technology put together, we are confident that it will be a success," the company said.

Hanjin no longer imports ship components from Korea as it embarked on building its own in its Subic shipyard Jong Shup Shim, Hanjin Philippines Inc. president, said Hanjin Subic can make $29 million worth of locally produced components for the first year and is confident of increasing them to $57 million next year.

Hanjin shipyard has 15,000 workers employed by the South Korean shipbuilder and its subcontractors.

Odense Steel Shipyard in Denmark, operated by AP Moller Maersk, has already decided to discontinue shipbuilding activities brought by the competitive situation in the shipbuilding industry.

It said due to the expansion of the yard capacity in low cost countries in the Far East and most recently with China's determined endeavors to become the world's largest shipbuilding nation, it became increasingly difficult to survive in the shipping industry in recent years.

"Although inquiries received are still high, stiff competition is expected from Chinese yards. The company will also pursue new building, fabrication and conversion jobs," it said, adding that the continuing global economic situation has and will continue to affect the shipping industry.

By Genivi Factoa - Malaya

Gordon bill on Subic, Clark gains support

SUBIC BAY FREEPORT -- A proposal made by Senator Richard Gordon allowing the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and the Clark Development Corporation (CDC) to expand their horizons by developing neighboring areas has gained momentum during committee deliberations last Wednesday.

Gordon, who heads the Senate Committee on Government Corporations and Public Enterprises, received assurances from national government agencies, government corporations and local government units (LGUs) that they would support development thrusts in the Subic-Clark growth corridor as envisioned in Gordon’s bill.

The agencies included SBMA and CDC, Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA), Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), Department of Finance (DoF), and the Philippine National Railways (PNR).

Representatives from the provincial governments of Zambales and Bataan likewise attended the hearing and expressed support for the proposal.

According to Gordon, Senate Bill No. 143 seeks to maximize the vision of the Subic-Clark growth corridor to decongest Manila and open up more livelihood opportunities in areas between the Subic, Clark and Manila, as well as along the 94-kilometer Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEx). By JONAS REYES - Manila Bulletin

San Miguel buys 35% in tollway venture

DIVERSIFYING FOOD and beverage giant San Miguel Corp. has solidified its intent to become a major player in the infrastructure sector by acquiring a significant stake in a consortium that will construct the 88-kilometer Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union expressway project.

San Miguel, through subsidiary Rapid Thoroughfares, Inc., signed a subscription agreement for a 35% stake in Private Infrastructure Development Corp.

The move sealed the non-binding agreement San Miguel signed with the company in July, and marked the conglomerate’s entry in the infrastructure business after investing in heavier industries like power distribution and oil refinery last year.

"The agreement is the most recent step in the company’s strategic transformation to diversify from its core food, beverage and packaging portfolio and marks its entry into infrastructure and tollways," San Miguel said.

Private Infra had said it hopes to start the construction of the tollway on September or October from original date of April, and finish the project in 2014. Depending on how things work out, San Miguel plans to increase its stake to a controlling interest of 51%.

Private Infra has filed an application with the Securities and Exchange Commission to reclassify P1 billion in preferred to common shares. The all-Filipino company also plans to increase its authorized capital stock to P4.5 billion and further increase this to P6.5 billion next month.

The P18-billion road network is expected to cut travel time from Manila to Baguio by half.

San Miguel has other infrastructure projects in mind. Earlier, the conglomerate disclosed plans to build a tollway that will connect Nueva Ecija to Cagayan Valley Road and together with Private Infra, a road from Rosario, La Union to Laoag. San Miguel has also expressed interest to acquire a stake in the operations of the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway from the state-led Bases Conversion Development Authority.

In July, San Miguel President Ramon S. Ang said the investment in Private Infra was in line with diversification plans, and "we’re happy to be a catalyst for the infrastructure needs of the country."

Mr. Ang noted that the northern and central Luzon stretch is a potentially dynamic industrial corridor and the proposed expressway would make it easier and cheaper to move goods and people from one point of Luzon to another.

"As a food and beverage conglomerate with one of the most developed distribution networks in the country, we have a strong interest in making it happen," Mr. Ang said.

Since announcing plans to venture outside its traditional food and beverage businesses, San Miguel has already bought significant stakes in various companies, which include the Bank of Commerce, Manila Electric Co., and Petron Corp.

San Miguel on Wednesday entered the power generation business after winning the 620-megawatt Limay Combined Cycle Power plant in Bataan through a negotiated sale with the Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corp. The group had offered $13.5 million for the plant.

The conglomerate is also the sole bidder for the Laiban Dam project of the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System.

Shares in San Miguel did not move at P65 apiece yesterday. — Kristine Jane R. Liu - Business World

BONGGO, tops OPM chart, again!

Olongapo Mayor James “Bong” Gordon, Jr. and his Bonggo band once again topped the OPM (Original Pilipino Music) sales chart for the period August 10-16, 2009 according to the Odyssey Music and Video sales report.

With the album, “Deep Inside My Mind,” Bonggo bested nine (9) of the country’s most-listened OPM and most-sought after recording stars including Aiza Seguerra & Willie Revillame, who could only place fifth and 7th behind Mayor Gordon his Bonggo band.

On the other hand, “Deep Inside My Mind” ranked second on the overall category besting numerous local and international albums such as “My Inspiration,” by Charice and “The Fame,” by Lady Gaga.

“The Bonggo band not only aims to entertain listeners but more importantly, we aspire to rpomote pride and loyalty to country and foster Filipino values thru the music we create,” said Mayor Gordon.

Aside from the self-titled carrier single, “Deep Inside My Mind,” the album also contains the following inspirational and patriotic tracks: BongGapo, You Say, Nowhere To GO, Subik, Bayon Kong Olongapo, Give me Feedback, Para sa Iyo and Pasko in duet, solo and group performance.

Pao/sara

Solons find Hanjin still lacking in labor safety

SUBIC BAY FREE PORT—South Korean shipbuilding giant Hanjin Heavy Industries Co., which operates a shipyard in this free port, may be complying substantially with labor-safety requirements, but its compliance program was still found wanting by visiting lawmakers.

Members of the House Committee on Labor and Employment inspected the Hanjin shipyard here last week to see for themselves how workers fared at the facility. At least 19 fatal accidents occurred in the shipyard in the last three years.

According to Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) officials who joined the inspection, the committee members have expressed appreciation for the implementation of work-safety measures inside the Korean shipyard, but said they wanted to see more improvement in labor safety inside the facility.

The inspection team was headed by committee chairman LP Rep. Magtanggol Guinigundo of the Second District of Bulacan, who was joined by Rep. Carlos Padilla of Nueva Vizcaya, Party-list Rep. Joel Maglunsod of Anak Pawis, Lakas Rep. Mitos Magsaysay of the First District of Zambales, Party-list Reps. Rafael Mariano of Anak Pawis, Walden Bello of Akbayan and Edno Joson of Balane-Kampi, PMP-UNO Rep. Rufus Rodriguez of the Second District of Cagayan de Oro and Lakas-CMD Rep. Monico Puentevella of Bacolod.

Guinigundo said the visit is connected with the ongoing committee hearing to determine whether the shipyard is a safe workplace, and to evaluate the working conditions of the workers there.

The lawmakers, who were met by Hanjin general manager Taek Kyun Yoo, were also accompanied by Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) officials, led by Central Luzon DOLE director Nathaniel Lacambra and director Brenda Villafuerte of the Bureau of Working Conditions, as well as SBMA officials, headed by senior deputy administrator Ramon Agregado.

SBMA records indicated that several accidents at the shipyard have claimed the lives of 19 Hanjin workers, including a Korean foreman early this year, since the firm started building ships here in 2007.

The incidents had led SBMA and other government agencies to suspend Hanjin operations several times, as well as to blacklist some subcontractors, pending a review of safety measures at the shipyard.

While briefing the lawmakers on the firm’s safety program, however, Yoo said Hanjin has been implementing health and safety measures that the House committee has recommended during previous hearings.

“We are happy to report to you that Hanjin Philippines is now 99.9-percent compliant in securing accreditation for all its health and safety personnel, and works toward the improvement of the working conditions of our workers,” Yoo said. He also reported that Hanjin’s emergency clinic in the shipyard has been expanded to a 20-bed capacity and is now equipped with modern medical apparatus.

The clinic also has four medical doctors now, as well as an ambulance and three fast sea ambulances, Yoo added.

Meanwhile, the firm’s board of directors has approved an annual budget of P311,356,292 for the improvement of work conditions in the facility, Yoo said. This amount will also cover the procurement of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, shoes, overall work suits, goggles and helmets, which are given free to workers, he added.

Despite the reported improvements in Hanjin’s labor safety, Bello commented that the implementation is still in the early stages.

“We are happy to hear and see the big improvement in the implementation of safety measures, but because they have just started doing this, there are lots more to do,” Bello added.

Magsaysay of Zambales, meanwhile, insisted to Hanjin officials that a hospital should be built in the area so that full medical services would be available to the workers.

Doctors and nurses should also be on duty at the facility 24 hours a day, Magsaysay said. Written by Henry Empeño / Business Mirror Correspondent

Recently passed resolutions at Sanggunian

2009 R - 115 - AUTHORIZING THE HON. MAYOR GORDON TO REPRESENT THE CITY OF OLONGAPO AND ENTER INTO A CONTRACT OF LOAN WITH THE DBP

2009 R - 115 - A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE HONORABLE CITY MAYOR JAMES GORDON, JR. TO REPRESENT THE CITY OF OLONGAPO AND ENTER INTO A CONTRACT OF LOAN WITH THE DEVELOPMENT BANK OF THE PHILIPPINES (DBP) IN THE PRINCIPAL AMOUNT OF EIGHTY ONE MILLION PESOS (PHP81,000,000.00) FOR THE PURPOSE/S STATED HEREIN AND TO SIGN THE LOAN AGREEMENT, DEED OF ASSIGNMENT, THE PROMISSORY NOTE AND OTHER DOCUMENTS RELATED THERETO

2009 R - 114 - A RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE TERMS OF REFERENCE TO ENTER A LONG TERM LEASE AGREEMENT REGARDING THE OLONGAPO CITY MALL BY AND BETWEEN THE OLONGAPO GOVERNMENT REPRESENTED BY THE HONORABLE CITY MAYOR JAMES GORDON, JR. AND THE WINNING BIDDER

2009 R - 113 - COMMENDING BARANGAY STA. RITA DISASTER COORDINATING COUNCIL FOR ITS ACCOMPLISHMENTS IN THE NDCC GAWAD KALASAG

2009 R - 113 - A RESOLUTION COMMENDING BARANGAY STA. RITA DISASTER COORDINATING COUNCIL FOR ITS ACCOMPLISHMENTS IN THE NDCC GAWAD KALASAG

2009 R - 112 - DESIGNATING MR. EDWARD A. ARTIS AS AN AMBASSADOR OF GOODWILL FOR OLONGAPO CITY

2009 R - 112 - A RESOLUTION DESIGNATING MR. EDWARD A. ARTIS AS AN AMBASSADOR OF GOODWILL FOR OLONGAPO CITY

Man in videoke brawl yields

SUBIC, ZAMBALES -- A man who figured in a fistfight with a drunken businessman in front of a videoke bar here surrendered to police authorities last Tuesday after learning that he had killed his opponent.

Accompanied by his father, suspect Alejandro Grateja, 21, a resident of Old Relocation Site, Agusuhin, Bgy. Cawag, surrendered to Senior Insp. Nelson Dela Cruz, Subic PNP Station chief, last Tuesday to face his case.

It was learned that around 11 p.m. on August 21, Alexander Parado, 43, of Bgy. Calapandayan and his friends decided to go home after rounds of beer at the One Stop KTV Bar located at Old Relocation Site, this town.

While still in front of the bar, the suspect arrived on his motorcycle and without warning punched the victim on its face until Parado fell to the ground. The suspect left afterwards.

The victim’s friends Oliver Marce, Helbert Hadji, Abel Lim Jayson Cabrega and Jayson Asero, all of Old Relocation Site, brought Parado to San Marcelino District Hospital for treatment but was pronounced dead on arrival by the attending doctor.

By: Ruben A. Veloria - Tonight

SBMA to lease out terminal for 4 years

THE Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) has decided to just lease its New Container Terminal 2 (NCT-2) rather than put it up for bidding and risk another failed bid as a result of the current economic slump experienced worldwide.

SBMA seaport department strategic planning head Lynette de la Cruz said they had decided to lease the property to manufacturing firm Bechtel Corp. for the next four years in order to have some cash flow and pay for the loan used to develop the terminal.

“Bechtel will use NCT-2 as its hub for four years. By that time, we expect that the current financial crisis will be over, and we could generate enough interest from the international market for our terminal,” de la Cruz said.

“After the lease contract, we will immediately resume with the privatization of the port. But as of now, we are more concerned in paying up our loan,” de la Cruz added.

She said the said company will use the port, which has a capacity to handle up to 300,000 twenty-foot equivalent units as its hub for its aluminum and electrical modules. The company will be paying SBMA about $1.10 per square meter per day.

She did not state the entire contract cost.

According to the original schedule as agreed upon by SBMA and the Japan Bank for International Cooperation, the procurement of the operator for the NCT-2 should not be later than the second quarter in 2008.

SBMA tried to privatize NCT-2 in April, but forced to declare it a failed bid. All of the four qualified bidders, which included Manila-based port operators Asian Terminals Inc.  International Container Terminal Services Inc., and Harbour Centre Port Terminals Inc. did not submit their respective bids due to economic reasons.

When fully privatized, SBMA placed the potential annual revenues for the port at $6 million.

The annual lease for the port, which has a lifespan of 50 years, will be enough to shoulder the $60-million loan from JBIC used to partly fund the project, it earlier said.

The government wants international shipping lines as the major operator for NCT-2 to ensure a strong cargo volume. According to the bid invitation sent out earlier by SBMA’s bids and awards committee, the contract will be for the operation, management and maintenance of the NCT-2 as a transshipment hub.

The said port, located in Cubi Point in Subic, has a 14-hectare container yard, a 280-meter -long wharf, two units of 53-ton-capacity quay gantry cranes, as well as other buildings, equipment and utilities. It can accommodate big container ships, including Panamax vessels. Written by VC Cabuag / Business Mirror Reporter

Zambales nickel processing to start this year

Benguet Corp., the oldest miner in the country, will likely start processing nickel ores this year.

"They have defended their feasibility study. It is a ’pelletizing’ plant to remove moisture from 30% so after processing it will only be 10%," Mr. Horacio C. Ramos, director of the Environment department’s Mines and Geosciences Bureau, told reporters.

Nickel ores from Benguet Corp’s 1,407.5-hectare nickel mine in the municipality of Sta. Cruz in Zambales will be processed in the plant.

The Sta. Cruz mine, which began commercial operations in 2006, has estimated resources of 19.528 million metric tons of ore at 1.36% grade nickel.

The miner cut net losses to P106.734 million in the first semester from P212.098 million last year.

Nickel prices have gone up to about $8 per pound from $6 per early this year. — Neil Jerome C. Morales - business world online

US-based cargo forwarder to set up shop in Subic

US-based cargo forwarded Atlas Shippers International Inc. announced it is setting up a port in the Subic Freeport which will serve as the firm’s hun for its North Luzon operations.

The port in Subic will serve as an entry point for balikbayan boxes for Atlas, one of the top three door-to-door cargo forwarders in the country.

Atlas used the Subic port for the first time on Thursday, officially marking the US-based firm’s intent to establish the Subic Bay Freeport as its hub for Northern Luzon operations.

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) Administrator Armand Arreza said the business sector is now taking notice of the advantages of using the Port of Subic, which boasts of two container terminals with a combined capacity of 600,000 TEUs.

“This is a small beginning towards greater things to come,” said Arreza during the ribbon cutting ceremony held at the New Container Terminal-1 (NCT-1) compound that was also attended by Subic-Clark Alliance Development Council chairman Edgardo Pamintuan, Subic customs district collector Marietta Zamoranos, and some officials from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

Arreza also pointed out that the SBMA is positioning Subic Bay as a maritime gateway for Luzon and a prime logistics hub for Southeast Asia.

Atlas president Joel Longares said the company’s cargo load, which come from branches in Australia, Hongkong, Italy and the United States, will peak at about 30 containers per month.

He said Atlas will hire about 50 employees for its Subic hub, where they will also install cargo sorting equipment.

Atlas currently has a warehouse in Las Piñas City, which Longares said will be maintained for their Southern Luzon operations.

The first container to arrive through the port of Subic, he added, will be a “test run” to determine the viability of this port as the sole discharging point for Luzon.

“We’ll have to determine if we could save money this way,” said Longares, explaining that boxes for delivery to Southern Luzon will be hauled by truck from this Freeport, to their Las Piñas hub.

He added that to offset trucking costs, they will be continuing on Subic’s tax incentives, lower tariff rates (as compared to the Port if Manila), complete support facilities and infrastructures, strategic location made more accessible by the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway, and faster document processing.

Longares said the balikbayan box in a billion-peso industry “with much room for growth.” With Subic as their hub f operations, Longares said he expects the company to grow significantly, and even expand to service outbound cargoes.

By. Ma. Elisa Osorio – Philippine Star

PGMA visits Zambales

P2.1-M relief goods distributed in Zambales as PGMA visits typhoon victims anew

Zambales -- Amidst the gloom that blanketed residents of Botolan, Zambales when the wrath of Typhoon Kiko hit their town, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo gave them something to cheer about as the Chief Executive distributed relief goods amounting to some P2.1 million.

PGMA visited yesterday the TLRC compound in Barangay Taugtog, the second visit to this town this month, to distribute relief packs of rice, noodles, sardines and other basic hygiene needs to more than 1,200 families or around 5,000 individuals.

TLRC, which house some 1,200 evacuees, is one the six remaining evacuation centers out of the total 13 centers opened during the height of flooding last August 6, 2009.

Flash floods swept Barangays San Juan, Paudpod, Batonlapoc, Carael, Paco, San Miguel, Tampo, Beneg, Capayawan and Bangan when the one-kilometer portion of a dike along the Bucao River collapsed due to heavy rains brought about by "Kiko."

The incident effectively isolated five northern towns of this province as strong currents from the river sought a new path destroying a portion of the national highway along Barangay Carael.

As of the latest report issued by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office III, a total of P19.7 million assistance from all concerned agencies, LGUs and NGOs have already been extended.

Carael Highway now passable

Joining the President were Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Hermogenes Ebdane, National Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC) Chief Glen Rabonsa and Subic-Clark Alliance for Development and Luzon Urban Beltway Champion Secretary Eduardo Pamintuan.

They were received by Governor Amor Deloso, Vice Governor Ann Marie Gordon, and Botolan Mayor Rogelio Yap.

President Arroyo also inaugurated the newly-constructed 60-meter steel bridge crossing the new river along the Carael Highway linking anew Northern Zambales to the southern towns including Subic and Olongapo. Travel to the Northern part of the province had to be made through Pangasinan after Typhoon Kiko swept Botolan.

PGMA gave strict instructions to DPWH officials during her first visit to the town (August 10) to finish the bridge in three weeks. DPWH Engineers responded swiftly, finishing the bridge in just 2 weeks.

Innovative but risky means to cross the raging river such as riding a motorized banca were introduced to mostly residents of nearby southern town while the highway was impassable.

The journey required a 3-kilometer tricycle ride from the highway near the Bucao River to the inner western portion of Barangay Carael, the boat ride that take passengers some 2 minutes to cross the new river and headed towards Barangay Bangan of the same town and another 3 to 4 kilometers of tricycle ride going to the nearest town of Iba.

The two tricycle rides cost passengers P40 each while the boat ride cost 30 pesos. Discounts were given to senior citizens and students.

A footbridge made of wood and galvanized iron tubes that lessened travel and expenses was constructed a week before the completion of the steel bridge.

Rehabilitation costly but recommended. Both the DSWD Field Office III and the Governor's Office through the Provincial Social Welfare & Development Office and the Provincial Disaster Coordinating Council, which Gov. Deloso head, recommended rehabilitation plans for the town that include housing units for deserving victims (P1.10M from DSWD estimate); immediate repair of roads and bridges (P10.4M from PDCC estimate); dike rehabilitation and reconstruction (P205M from PDCC estimate); rehabilitation of schools (P29M, PDCC estimate); and construction barangay health units, day care centers and centers for the elderly (P1.5M, DSWD estimate).

"We badly need the help of the Office of the President on this costly undertaking but I am confident Madame President Gloria will oblige. She has a heart for the poor and needy, as shown in her visits to this town," Governor Deloso said in an interview shortly after PGMA left the TLRC compound.

"Ngayon pa lang, in behalf of my fellow Zambaleños, I am extending my heartfelt gratitude to President Arroyo," the Governor added. (by Allen Villa PIA-Zambales)

Philip Morris' Subic facility to be Asia's largest

SUBIC BAY FREEPORT - Philip Morris International will increase the capacity of its Subic Bay tobacco storage facility by four times, making it the largest such warehouse in Southeast Asia.

Initially envisioned to store 6,100 metric tons of tobacco products, the facility will soon be able to keep and preserve 24,000 MTs of imported tobacco leaves, a company official said.

The new warehouse will have humidity control, fire suppression equipment, and air conditioning to store imported tobacco which will then be transported to cigarette manufacturing plants in Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines.

The expansion forms part of the company’s plan to build a P1-billion tobacco leaf regional warehouse here, a Philip Morris Philippines Manufacturing Inc. (PMPMI) official said.

As part of its expansion, PMPMI entered into a 50-year lease agreement with Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), increasing the size of its warehouse from 9,600 square meters to 49,279 sq. ms.

This comprises the second phase of the company’s expansion plans in Subic Bay, PMPMI managing director Christopher Nelson said.

The warehouse expansion is "a reflection of our faith in the Philippine government, particularly the SBMA," Nelson said.

He also expressed confidence that PMPMI will remain profitable against its rivals despite increasing competition in the tobacco industry.

Currently, PMPMI employs 812 workers. It has a head office in Makati, a factory in Tanauan, Batangas, and various regional offices across the country.

"If you plan well ahead, and stay committed, this country will reward you in many ways," Nelson said. "It may be difficult to get us, but once you have us, it would be difficult for us to leave you."

In the meantime, SBMA said that its lease agreement with PMPMI “strengthens Subic Bay Freeport’s competitive posture as South East Asia’s logistics hub." - GMANews.TV

Subic holds night marathon

For a change, participants in the Smart Subic International Marathon or Smart SIM will get to see the sunset as they compete in the country’s one and only night marathon on Oct. 24.

“This is the most exciting marathon in the country today,” said Sam Tucay, founder of the Subic International Marathon, in yesterday’s press launch at Dusit Thani in Makati.

“Why? There is no other marathon route in the country as beautiful as this, and the time, the race starting at 4:30 p.m., makes it as scenic as possible,” said the retired police general.

Organizers are looking at more than 10,000 runners in the full marathon, half marathon and side events such as the 10K, 5K and 3K races, and this early, it seems that everything’s on track.

Once again, Kenya, which has produced some of the great runners in history, will field entries to the event won last year by Nelson Kirwa Rotich, a Kenyan, followed closely by RP’s Eduardo Buenavista.

However, Buenavista, the country’s top long-distance runner, won’t compete, as he’s scheduled to take part in the marathon event of the Laos Southeast Asian Games in December.

But a host of local runners will be there to give the Kenyans a run for their money, including former Milo Marathon champion Chris Sabal, and other members of the national training pool.

The race starts at the newly built Subic Clark Tarlac Expressway (SCTEx) in Floridablanca in Pampanga, and into the Remy Field in Subic Bay in Olongapo, offering a rolling, flat and long stretch of well-paved roads.

Through Smart and other sponsors, organizers have put up a cash pot of P1.187 million, with the men’s and women’s champions getting $5,000 each or its peso equivalent.

There’s advocacy behind the race, too, as the Philippine National Police is using the marathon as part of its transformation program for some of its men who have been placed in its leadership and values school.

Gen. Paul Bataoil, who heads the PNP’s public and community relations, said Chief PNP Gen. Jesus Versoza has issued a directive to all commanders to get their men into running as a means to develop their values.

Pato Gregorio, head of Smart Sports, said the telecommunications giant under Manny V. Pangilinan has chosen to support marathon because it’s a sport where Filipinos can eventually excel.

“When Smart Sports gets involved in sports we want to help the Filipino athlete. And it’s not just sponsoring events or counting the billboards, ad placements and publicities. We are not here just an event sponsor. We’re here for an advocacy,” he said.

By.JUN MENDOZA - Philippine Star

===

Hi! We’re gearing up for the Smart Subic International Marathon this coming October 24-25, 2009. As such, we’d like to invite you to join this world-class running event. We also encourage you to invite your family and friends to participate in this event.

The first prize in the 42.19 km event for the top male and female runners is USD 5000 each (same as the Boston Marathon). The other races scheduled for the weekend will include the 3k, 5k, 10k, and 21k events.

To register via SMS (for SMART & Talk N' Text Subscribers only):

TEXT: SIM (space) REG (space) Name/Age, Birthday, Singlet Size/ Distance
SEND TO: 717SIM (717746)

For more information, just visit www.smartsports.net.Thanks and we hope to see you there!

By Smart Sports Staff,

Job Opportunities in Olongapo-Subic Bay

ELECTRONICS / ELECTRICIAN
SPREADER
SKILLED SEWER
INDUSTRIAL ENGINEER
KITCHEN PERSONNEL
DINE-IN PERSONNEL
ADMINISTRATION STAFF
PRODUCTION TECHNICIAN
ACCOUNTING STAFF
MECHANICAL DESIGNER
ASSISTANT PRODUCTION MANAGER
ACCOUNTING STAFF
FDS TELEMARKETER
UTILITY MAN
STOCK / QUALITY CONTROLLER
DISHWASHER
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FDS RIDER
HALO - HALO PERSON
SERVICE STAFF
ASSISTANT PROJECT MANAGER
MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEM
WAREHOUSE STAFF
ACCOUNTING STAFF / PAYROLL OFFICER
INTERNAL SECURITY
PARK GUIDE
GRILLMAN
COOK
PRODUCTION WORKER
GENERAL CLERK / NURSE
CASHIER
COMPANY DRIVER
SELLING SUPERVISOR

Subic rescue team gets special citation

SUBIC FREEPORT -- President Arroyo has presented a special citation to the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority’s (SBMA) fire and rescue team for its preparedness and willingness to respond to emergencies at all times.

The SBMA fire and rescue team won the special recognition for being the “Best Support Organization/Institution” in the 2009 Gawad Kalasag Awards held in Malacañang last week.

The Gawad Kalasag Awards, which is organized by the National Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC), recognizes individuals, groups or institutions that have shown extraordinary courage, heroism, self-sacrifice and bravery in times of emergencies and disasters.

President Arroyo and Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilbert Teodoro presented the special citation to the SBMA fire and rescue team for its “invaluable services, competence, and commitment in preparing for and responding to emergencies within and outside the Subic Bay Freeport Zone.”

SBMA Fire Chief Ranny Magno and his team received the Kalasag award, and shared the citation with the rest of SBMA personnel.

“This is something that only the SBMA fire and rescue team should be proud of. We earned this national award because of the support of everyone in SBMA,” Magno said.

The SBMA fire and rescue team had earlier received several other commendations for its emergency responses and rescue missions in the past.

Last July 28, the Cordillera Regional Disaster Coordinating Council (CRDCC) recognized the SBMA team for its help in rescuing trapped miners in Itogon, Benguet in September, 2008.

The award was presented by CRDCC regional director Olive Luces in Baguio City.

Magno recalled that after getting the emergency call from Baguio City in the afternoon of that fateful day in September, the SBMA rescue team was immediately organized such that all were already heading for Baguio by midnight.

A few minutes after the team’s arrival at the collapsed mine shaft in Itogon, Benguet, the operation to rescue the trapped miners started. Before noon the following day, the team has rescued the first trapped miner.

SBMA Administrator Armand Arreza said SBMA will always be ready to send its fire and rescue teams anywhere and at anytime to help save lives and property. (Jonas Reyes - Manila Bulletin)

Job Opportunities in Olongapo-Subic Bay

MERCHANDISER
CASHIER
STORE MANAGER
TECHNICAL DRAFTSMAN
COUNTER CHECKER
CASHIER
WAREHOUSE CREW
SALES ASSOCIATE
ARTIST
ENGINEERING STAFF
ASSISTANT DOCUMENTATION CONTROL CLERK
ELECTRICAL ENGINEER
AUDITOR
ACCOUNTING MANAGER

Olongapo Sister-city with Guam gathers support

Guam-Olongapo Sister City Plan Gets Hearing

Written by Stefan Sebastian - www.pacificnewscenter.com

Guam-- Sen. Eddie Baza Calvo hosted a public hearing today on his resolution to designate Olongapo, in the Philippines, as a sister city of Guam.

At the hearing, Calvo said Guam and Olongapo have much in common and the sister city relationship would open new doors for tourism and business investment.

“If you look at Zambales and compare it to Guam, we really have a lot of similarities,” Calvo said. “There’s ways Guam can benefit with the usage of talent from the region. “In about eight years, Guam’s economy of military construction will have to move toward another direction. There’s going to have to be something to replace it. We have to look at the long term with a mutually beneficial relationship with Olongapo. They found a way and, with the help of this partnership, we can too.”

Calvo heard testimony on the resolution from the Zambales Family Association of Guam, the Filipino-American Presidents, the Filipino Community of Guam and Philippine Consul General Olivia Palala .

“The Philippine Consulate General believes that friendly and cooperative exchanges to promote culture, tourism and workforce development, as mentioned in your proposed Resolution’s draft agreement, will certainly work for the advancement of the interests of both Guam and Olongapo City,” Consul General Olivia Palala wrote.

If the resolution passes, the legislature will adopt a memorandum establishing the sister city relationship, which would then be need the signatures of Olongapo City Mayor James “Bong” Gordon, Jr. and Speaker Judi Won Pat.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aVyJXlNVDDQ

Sister-city proposal gathers support

PACIFIC DAILY NEWS • NEWS@GUAMPDN.COM

The Guam Visitors Bureau and the Filipino community on Guam today spoke in support of a proposal to establish a sister-city agreement between the island and the Philippine city of Olongapo, which once hosted the U.S. military.

Sen. Eddie Baza Calvo, who introduced Resolution No. 60, held a public hearing on the proposal today.

He heard testimony from leaders from the Zambales Family Association of Guam and members of the Filipino Community of Guam. The Philippine consul general to Guam, a past president of the FCG and GVB also submitted written testimony favoring passage of the resolution.

Philippine Consul General Olivia Palala in her testimony said Guam and Olongapo will mutually benefit from an official relationship, in light of the planned military buildup on the island.

"Aside from being home to the naval base, Olongapo City was likewise a reliable source of skilled workers needed for the Subic Naval Base operations," Palala wrote.

GVB General Manager Gerry Perez said a sister-city relationship can improve tourism.

“We foresee increased travel between Guam and Olongapo with friends and relatives as well as developing business relationships between the two communities,” Perez wrote. “We believe this resolution to establish a sister-city relationship will be mutually fruitful and expect benefits to increase over time for the people of Guam and Olongapo, Philippines.”

If the resolution passes, the Guam Legislature will adopt a Memorandum on Strengthening Exchange and Cooperation, which would be signed by Olongapo City Mayor James “Bong” Gordon Jr. and legislative Speaker Judi Won Pat.