Richard Gordon

Metrobank Group, Toyota Motor Philippines and Mitsui donate for Japan Quake Victims

2011-03-15T22:47:00.000-07:00

Philippine Red Cross (PRC) Chairman Richard Gordon receives donation amounting to Php 10 million from the Metrobank Group of Companies, and its partners, Toyota Motor Philippines Corporation and Mitsui and Co., Pte. Ltd. on Monday. This is in support to the Japan quake disaster appeal that the PRC launched to reciprocate the compassionate assistance of Japan to Philippines during disasters and emergencies.

http://www.redcross.org.ph/

Phil Red Cross launches an SMS Donation Campaign for Japan quake victims

2011-03-15T22:44:00.000-07:00

Following the unprecedented 8.9 magnitude quake that shook Japan Friday afternoon causing extensive damages to lives and properties, the Philippine Red Cross launched a fund-drive through SMS Donation in support of the Japanese Red Cross Society's (JRCS) response to the emergency situation.

JRCS is an active supporter of PRC in times of disasters and other emergencies. It is also a partner in its several programs, including the Primary Health Care Project.

PRC Chairman Richard J. Gordon said, "It's our turn to give back."

"Being a third world country shouldn't hinder us from helping our neighboring country, which is in dire need of assistance," Gordon added.

He enjoins every Filipino to do their share and help the people of Japan.

The PRC has earlier alerted its disaster action teams for immediate deployment to Japan in case the need arises.

PRC is a member of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement that is now working together to help alleviate the plight of the quake victims.

For more information, please call our emergency hotline: 143 or (02) 527-0000.

To donate, please text: REDAMOUNT to 2899, or DONATEAMOUNT4-digit M-PINREDCROSS to 2882 for Globe subscribers; and REDON to 4483 for Smart subscribers.

http://www.redcross.org.ph/

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Dick Gordon on radio and tv

2011-02-21T18:13:00.000-08:00

Dick Gordon on radio and tv
By CHERRY MORIONES-DOROMAL
February 22, 2011, 8:47am
http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/305672/dick-gordon-radio-and-tv

MANILA, Philippines -- Dick Gordon takes on a new role as radio
anchor with Cheryl Cosim "Aksyon Solusyon" Mondays to Fridays 10-11am
on 92.3 News FM and free channel TV 41(channel 29 in Cebu and Davao).
He will also be on tv as he co-hosts with Jake Macasaet on "Duelo"
Mondays to Fridays 7-8pm on free (UHF) TV 41.

Watch Video of Launch: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O3H5mgPJyE8

Watch Video of First Day: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GHIimgC4ZHc

James Leonard Tagle Gordon (Jan 17, 1917-Feb 20, 1967)

2011-01-16T11:58:00.000-08:00

ames Leonard Tagle Gordon was Mayor of Olongapo City from December 30, 1963 to February 20, 1967. He was born on January 17, 1917 of an American father, John Jacob Gordon, and a Filipina mother, Veronica Tagle Gordon.

He could have chosen to take American Citizenship and live in the United States like his four brothers where he could enjoy the comforts in a well developed country. Instead, he chose to stay in the Philippines as a Filipino Citizen. He raised his children as Filipino Citizens and brought them up according to Filipino values.

This is not surprising considering that he inherited the genes of a revolutionary hero, Jose Tagle. One of the three children of Tagle was Veronica who married John Jacob Gordon. Jose Tagle was known for his exploits in leading a raiding team against friars and Civil Guards in Imus, then against a strong Spanish force in Bacoor, Cavite. He was victorious in both instance and won the high regard if Aguilnaldo. In recognition of his leadership Aguinaldo appointed Tagle Municipal Mayor of Imus.

Inherited Traits.

This distinguished ancestry gave James Gordon the strong character that he, in turn, left to his progeny and to the people of Olongapo as lasting legacy. His private life and public career all bore the earmarks of decisiveness, of willingness to fight corruption against seemingly insurmountable odds.

James Gordon was a self- made man. He did not depend on anybody but largely went through life on his own efforts, a trait that is part of his American heritage. Being the only child left behind with his aging father, who was interned during the war, he took care of the old gentleman until his death in 1954. In doing this, he followed closely the Filipino tradition of close family ties and of caring for the elderly members. As a true Filipino he kept in close touch with his children even when they were away in school in Manila. He always wanted his children to excel in whatever they tried, be it a very lowly task.

Civic Consciousness.

His family orientedness showed in his successful attempts to put up an institution that would take care of orphans and abandoned children. Together with his friends, he put up Boys Town- Girls Home which still exists to this day, caring for around 70 wards.. Jimmy Gordon’s widow Amelia J. Gordon continues this tradition of caring by keeping under her care children from very poor families.

In the field of civic work James Gordon led in the forming of groups that worked on community projects. He was one of the organizers of the Olongapo Civic Action Group that worked on beautification projects and in general improvement of the city. He was one of the founders of the Olongapo Rotary Club, which has given rise to four other Rotary Clubs at present. He was also one of the founders of the Olongapo Knights of Columbus- and was selected the second Grand Knight. He organized the Olongapo Businessmen’s Association which then, as now, played a significant part in community life.

Military Rule.

During Gordon’s time Olongapo was in a strange situation. The rest of the Philippines had been declared independent of the United States on July 4, 1946. Olongapo, however, remained under U.S. Government jurisdiction. It had been declared a U.S. Naval Reservation soon after the U.S. and Spain signed the Treaty of Paris. As such it was administered by a U.S. Navy officer. In other words, instead of having a Filipino Mayor, Olongapo had as its governing authority an American military official. Residents had to follow strict rules like: always having an ID Card issued by the Reservation office; home lots could not be owned, these could be taken back any time the US Navy needed the area; relatives from out of town can stay only for a few days and had to renew their passes if their stay is extended; only families with working members could stay in the Reservation. These strictly followed rules made the residents angry. But they became angrier when bus passengers going in and out of the Naval Reservation were made to get off the bus for strict searches of their belongings.

Turnover of Olongapo to Philippine Government.

Jimmy Gordon led the move to make Olongapo free from U.S. rule. He was well respected by US Navy officials and had many friends among the Americans but he could not stomach the military regulations that limited the movements of people in Olongapo. Jose Balein of the Manila Chronicle interviewed him and in a series of articles from July 3 to 7,. 1955 he exposed the abuses and harassments suffered by Olongapo residents under US military rule

The Zambales officials supported Gordon in this fight to be free of military restrictions. As Vice Governor of Zambales he was in a position to speak for people living in Zambales town north of Olongapo who worked in US Navy installations. Buses carrying passengers from Zambales towns passed through Olongapo and underwent the annoying searches. The concerted resistance to military rule could not be ignored by the U.S. Navy authorities. Talks were initiated to formalize the turnover of Olongapo to the Philippine Government. The American panel was made up of officials from the US Embassy headed by Minister Abbot and officers from the U.S. Navy. The Philippine panel was headed by Pacifico Castro of the Department of Foreign Affairs. Vice Governor Gordon was a member. The US Government was thus compelled to relinquish Olongapo to the Philippine Government after the RP-US panel met several times to discuss the conditions. Olongapo was turned over to the Philippine Government on December 7, 1959. On the same day President Carlos P. Garcia signed the Executive Order making Olongapo a municipality of Zambales.

Post Turnover Trouble.

After the turnover, the Zambales politicians moved in. they succeeded in placing their own men in sensitive positions in the new municipality because they worked to have officials appointed instead of elected. Gordon had no stomach for the corruption and he resigned from the post of Deputy Governor. He saw how Olongapo was marginalized. The government hospital was reduced in category; its equipment was carted off to Zambales. Illegal logging and cigarette smuggling were rampant. Land problems proliferated. The new officials tried to lease out the electrical utility for only P5,000.00 a month. Heavy equipment like bulldozers which had been acquired from the US Navy could not be accounted for.

Political Turncoatism.

The political disease of turncoatism was very evident. Party hopping politicians were motivated by the advantage that they could get from the party, not by the principles that the party stood for. The first few years of the new municipality saw this in evidence with the change of party of the Zambales Governor and the Congressman. Politics at its devious worst was the order of the day.

Prodded to run for Municipal Mayor during its first election four years after the turnover, James Gordon, though a reluctant candidate, won and was finally at the helm of his town on December 30, 1963.

Relentless fight against corruption.

If Gordon fought American rule for the military excesses, now he fought well entrenched politicians for widespread corruption. He contracted the services of a lawyer using his own money and won the case (albeit posthumously) that he filed to return the electrical system to the Olongapo Government. He exposed the anomalies that bedeviled the new municipal government. Understandably, his crusade earned for him enemies who tried all manner of harassment, including threats of suspension, hand grenade attacks and planned ambushes.

A City is born.

The situation deteriorated to the extent that Gordon, together with Olongapo residents, struggled hard to be free of the provincial government. He lobbied in Congress for the passage of a bill to convert the municipality into a City. Amidst strong opposition from the provincial government but to the triumphant rejoicing of the people of Olongapo, RA 4645, the Charter of the City of Olongapo, was signed by President Ferdinand Marcos on June 1, 1966. In simple but impressive ceremonies Olongapo City was inaugurated on September 1 of the same year.

New city status failed to damper the avidity of Gordon’s enemies who continued to plan his extermination.

A Light is Extinguished.

There were three attempts on his life: On July 4, 1965, he was lured out of his house by a false report on a fire. On the way back home a grenade was thrown at his car. He survived this first attempt. On August 4 of the same year several prisoners were allowed to escape from the municipal jail of Subic, Zambales. Again, a fire was made as a ruse to make Gordon appear. Three grenades were thrown at the crowd, wounding one US Navy officer who was with the team that helped to control the blaze. Again, James Gordon survived the attempt. The third try was again linked to a fire. The Gordon residence in Quezon City mysteriously burned down on All Saints’ Day. The family later learned that an ambush had been prepared at the Zig-Zag pass although he went through this third attempt unscathed.

On February 20, 1967, while talking with a constituent on the first floor of City Hall, he was gunned down by Nonito Alincastre, an scaped inmate of the National Penitentiary. He was immediately brought to the USS Repose, a US Navy hospital ship, but he could not be saved because of his massive head injuries.

His funeral was the longest Olongapo ever saw. Senators, Congressmen, Ambassadors, joined the grieving Olongapo public in the funeral cortege. His death brought inconsolable loss to his grieving family. Son Richard rued the fact that his father died before he could prove himself equal to the challenge of service that was constantly dinned in his consciousness both by his father’s word as well as by example. Thence began his promise to himself that he would make something of himself to make his father proud of him.

It was a loss felt nationwide. Senator Jose W. Diokno’s tribute to him resonates in every Olongapeno’s heart: “He was born to an American father, chose to be a Filipino, raised his children as Filipinos, served his country as a Filipino and died a Filipino hero.”

Jose Rizal: My Ateneo Hero

2010-12-30T09:27:00.000-08:00

Our national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, is my Ateneo hero because he dared to break the walls built by Spanish colonizers around Filipino minds to conquer us into servitude. His entire life was dedicated to the proposition that Filipinos can overcome our self-imposed apathy and indifference and that, like our early ancestors, we become horizon chasers who know no limit to our dreams and aspirations.

To project their might and power, the Spanish built the formidable walls of Intramuros and intimidating structures within the colonial city. This physical barrier worked not only to keep the lower-ranked indios away, but to the greater detriment of the Filipino people, subjugated our minds into submission, propagating the myth that we are incapable of unity and the creation of a strong independent nation.

Despite colonial efforts to limit education for Filipinos, Rizal pursued and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Ateneo Municipal de Manila in Intramuros. At school, he exhibited natural intelligence, and the Jesuits further honed his intellectual capability to organize, discern and critically think. So he started to ask questions and see things differently than other people of his time.

Rizal’s passion for education was relentless, and he took up Medicine at the University of Santo Tomas. He went abroad and continued his studies in Universidad Central de Madrid, earning the degree of Licentiate in Medicine. He also attended the University of Paris and later on earned a second doctorate at the University of Heidelburg. He educated himself some more and proved that Filipinos could debate, argue, compete with the best and most importantly, that we could assert ourselves. Rizal became the first of our people to break the walls in his mind; walls, which were built to psychologically bludgeon the Filipinos’ consciousness. He realized that even if we were colonized by foreign nations, we can refuse to be bound by them and can achieve far beyond what we think we can reach, if only we have the vision and the will to achieve it. His values dared with a concept that the Filipino will one day be free especially through the perseverance and determination of young people like him to saw the future and chased after it.

The road, he knew, would not always be easy. Initially using the pen name Laong Laan, Rizal later overcame his own fears and put his own name down to Noli Me Tangere and the El Filibusterismo. This was a valiant effort to awaken the Filipinos to boldly fight for their freedom and liberty. In the face persecution and death, Rizal came home to face and accept his fate, knowing that by his sacrifice, the Filipino would awaken and aspire for a nation that is independent and free.

I grew up as an Atenean trying to emulate Rizal’s short but meaningful life as an ideal which shows that we must break the walls in our minds, regain confidence in our capabilities, and become courageous about the future as he did.

Like Rizal, I learned to conquer apathy and indifference by initiating change. I grew up in a city and community that was faced with many challenges. Together with the people of Olongapo, we made fear our friend, and faced these challenges head on. Our efforts as a united people, rising above our own limitations and seeing what we could become, just as Rizal would have hoped, have seen us through the most difficult times of our history. In the 1980s Olongapo became a model city for peace and order, governance, and public services. After the eruption of Mt. Pinatubo and the withdrawal of the U.S. Navy in 1992, a community of volunteers transformed Subic into a modern Freeport, making it the nation’s showcase for progress and development. Rallying the entire nation to scream Wow Philippines saw our country overcome overwhelming odds in the last decade. And in the Philippine Red Cross, an organization fueled by the energy and dedication of thousands of volunteers, we have able faced the tumultuous disasters of the new millennium.

For me, Rizal unlocked us from the bondage of the mind and soul. In death, he consecrated his blood in Bagumbayan (what today is known as the Rizal Park in Manila) as with Fathers Gomez, Burgos and Zamora and before them Rajah Sulayman. It was not a mere coincidence but a symbol of what he wanted for the Filipinos -- a new Philippines, a Bagumbayan – the new country. Bagumbayan is not a place. It is an attitude. It is time we become horizon-chasers once again like the Ateneo eagle. We have to change ourselves, reinvent ourselves, and we must not cease from hoping. It is time we break our walls and say, we can do it. We have the power to shape our future and determine the destiny of our country.

Bagumbayan is Rizal’s dream of a new nation, and I continue to aspire to fulfill Rizal’s Bagumbayan, not as a place or a circumstance, but an attitude crying to break free. We need to change from being a transactional country to a transformational people, guided by a common vision – grounded in steadfast values and responsive to the call of lofty and worthwhile causes through volunteerism so that we can emerge as a nation no longer of victims, but a victorious nation, defined in its identity, united in its goals and passionate in its freedom and pride.

I thank my parents, the real heroes in my life, who did not finish college but through perseverance and hard work, were able to send me to the Ateneo, inculcating the right values and work ethic in my formative years. My father chose to become Filipino and dared that one day Olongapo would be free from American rule like the rest of the country. Heroism encompasses not one singular act, but the collective acts of bold decisions that involve much effort and self sacrifice to achieve lofty ideals for mankind.

(My Ateneo Hero, By Richard J. Gordon HS’62, AB’66; "My Ateneo Hero: A collection of 150 Essays"; August 2010)

Christmas with the most vulnerable

2010-12-24T23:24:00.000-08:00

December 24, 2004: Bringing Christmas cheer to children victims of the Aurora and Quezon province mudslides.

December 24, 2006: Spending Christmas with victims of Typhoon Reming in Albay..

YOUTUBE VIDEO: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yfj6gbdltP4

December 24, 25, 26, 27 2009: The Holidays spent with victims of Mt. Mayon eruption and fires in Pasay as well as rescuing victims of M/V Baleno sinking in Batangas.

December 22, 2010: Yuletide season turning over homes for Typhoon Ondoy victims in Rizal.

PRC Antipolo shelter beneficiaries deserve their new found homes

2010-12-24T05:56:00.000-08:00

"We did not award the shelters to the 355 Typhoon Ondoy affected families out of mere pity. We did it because they deserve it," Philippine Red Cross (PRC) Chairman Richard J. Gordon firmly stated in line with the PRC Antipolo shelters turnover ceremony held at Sitio Sumilang, Barangay San Jose, Antipolo, Rizal yesterday (December 22).

And to further elaborate this thought, he added, "The Philippine Red Cross is never all about spoon-feeding, and this is the reason why we incorporated a sweat equity program in this project."

The sweat equity program is an arrangement between the PRC and the beneficiaries, which requires the latter to participate in the actual construction of their homes. Its purpose is to uplift the dignity of the typhoon-affected population by showing them that they are not passive recipients of what the PRC has to offer, but rather an active partner of the organization in alleviating human suffering and uplifting human dignity.

"At least, through this program, these families could further appreciate the value of their new homes, since they themselves built it with their own hands," Gordon uttered in line with the advantages of this program.

To date, 400 transitional shelters have already been completed in Antipolo; but unfortunately, not all were distributed yesterday since some of the recipients of the said project are still halfway from concluding their responsibilities, as posed by the sweat equity program.

Other than the transitional shelters, on the other hand, the 355 beneficiaries yesterday received additional benefits, such as, kitchen sets and sanitation kits. And by January next year, the PRC will start the livelihood program for them, with Php 7,000.00 starting capital.

The PRC has much more than material things in store. More importantly than tangible things that provide relief, what the PRC aims to offer is an opportunity for the vulnerable to regain their dignity their own way; and be the help they need, not only for the benefit of their own well-being, but also for the benefit of others.

www.redcross.org.ph

Philippine Red Cross turns over 355 transitional shelters in Antipolo

2010-12-24T04:07:00.000-08:00

In time for the Yuletide season, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) formally turned over the first 355, out of 1,100, transitional shelters for Typhoon Ondoy affected families in Sitio Sumilang, Barangay San Jose, Antipolo, Rizal on December 22.

And for starters, PRC also provided additional 355 kitchen and sanitation kits to the beneficiaries of the abovementioned shelters, in order to warmly welcome all of them in their new homes.

No less than PRC Chairman and CEO Richard J. Gordon led the turnover with PRC Secretary General Gwendolyn Pang, Rizal Chapter Chairman Alfred Burgos, International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies Head of Delegation Selvaratnam Sinnadura and was also graced by the attendance of Rizal Province Governor Casimiro Ynares, III and other renowned guests.

Christmas is one of the most celebrated occasions in the Philippines; and hopefully, this activity will further give some of the Typhoon Ondoy affected families more reason to rejoice," Gordon cheerfully uttered.

He added, "We truly understand that most, if not all, of them tremendously suffered from late last year's super typhoon's attack; but despite the said desolation, we are looking forward that this event could help them rebuild their lives."

In totality, PRC targets to put up 3,476 transitional shelters for the vulnerable families who have been devastated by last year's successive super typhoons, Ondoy and Pepeng. As of December 20, a sum of 1,744 have already been constructed within the areas of Benguet, La Union, Laguna, Kalinga, Pangasinan, and Rizal; not to mention the 5,418 shelter repair kits that have been distributed nationwide to some of the families who were left with partially damaged houses after the said super typhoons.

"Currently, we are at the rehabilitation stage of our Typhoons Ondoy and Pepeng operation," Pang elaborated, in line with the still ongoing transitional shelter project.

She also added, "Other than transitional shelters, we are also working on the provision of livelihood programs for those typhoon-affected families who wish to start income generating activities."

According to recent records, around 986 families have already benefited from PRC's livelihood program. Each of them has received Php 7,000.00, which could serve as a starting capital for their prospected businesses.

Meanwhile, it has been recorded that, all in all, the PRC was able to provide more than 15,000 homes all over the country—particularly in the provinces of Southern Leyte, Albay, Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, Marinduque, Mindoro Oriental, Quezon, Aurora, Isabela, Nueva Ecija, Quirino, Sorsogon, Lanao del Norte, Iloilo, and Aklan—for families affected by major disasters ever since year 2005.

www.redcross.org.ph
Photos courtesy of Edgardo Vasquez

Christmas Safety Tips from Red Cross

2010-12-21T21:08:00.000-08:00

The Christmas season is a time for countless parties, family reunions and exchanges of presents. However, this is also a time when several incidents of fire due to faulty Christmas lights and crimes such as robbery holdup occur.

"It is said that the Philippines has the longest Christmas celebration in the world. It starts from the onset of 'ber' months until the Epiphany in January. That means, our heightened alertness for any untoward incident during the Christmas season lasts for about five months," said Philippine Red Cross Chairman Richard Gordon.

Stay safe while keeping the festive mood alive during the Yuletide season by following these reminders:

At Home
1. Examine your Christmas decors like Christmas lights and lanterns. Make sure that these were inspected by the Department of Trade and Industry.
2. Put up your Christmas tree and decorations away from curtains and other combustible materials.
3. Avoid leaving Christmas lights turned on overnight to avoid fire or overheating.
4. Avoid octopus lines to minimize overloading of electrical system.
5. Never place appliance cords or extension cords under a carpet.
6. Do not leave infants or children alone in places where they are in danger of falling or near electrical outlets or gadgets and candles.
7. Always position appliances (TV, computer, sound system, heating appliances, etc.) in a spacious area to prevent overheating.
8. Repair faulty functioning appliances.
9. Use appliances at a specified voltage only.
10. Unplug appliances by grasping the plug, not by yanking the cord, when not in use and when leaving the house.

To Avoid Incidents of Holdup/Snatching1. Avoid wearing jewelries, talking over the phone and texting in a crowded area.
2. When waiting for a public utility vehicle, do not stay in a dark area.
3. It is best to call for a company taxi in case you will go home at midnight or early in the morning. Lock all doors once inside to prevent "bukas kotse gang" from declaring hold up. Do not sleep inside the taxi. Make sure to get the plate number of the taxi and give it to a friend in case something happens.

www.redcross.org.ph

PRC turns over PHC Infra Projects in Quirino

2010-12-21T20:51:00.000-08:00

Philippine Red Cross (PRC) formally turns over infrastructure projects to barangay beneficiaries of Primary Health Care (PHC) Program in Quirino last December 8.

PRC Chairman Richard Gordon, PRC Secretary General Gwendolyn Pang, PRC Quirino Chapter Board of Directors and Japanese Red Cross Society (JRCS) representatives graced the symbolic turnover ceremony.

Prior to the turnover program, PRC officials conducted site visits in Barangay Ramos and Barangay Cabugao in Aglipay, Quirino where latrines and a barangay health station were constructed and hand pumps were given, respectively.

The PHC Project is an initiative of PRC which seeks to improve the health and living conditions of the vulnerable people in priority upland barangays of the municipalities of Nagtipunan and Aglipay in Quirino.

The key components of the project include community health education and mobilization of trained community health volunteers; water sanitation, hygiene and health promotion; construction and rehabilitation of barangay health stations and rural health units; and strengthening of community health planning and organizational support.

Started in 2005 in Nagtipunan, the PHC Project is funded by JRCS and implemented by PRC Quirino Chapter, in partnership with the local government of Quirino.

www.redcross.org.ph

Red Cross all set for Undas 2010

2010-10-27T19:06:00.000-07:00

To give immediate assistance in case of any emergency, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) is prepared to mobilize its staff and volunteers for the national observance of All Saint’s Day and All Soul’s Day on November 1, 2010 and November 2, 2010, respectively.

Red Cross chapters nationwide will put up first aid stations with ambulances to be manned by their staff and volunteers to ensure safety of the general public.

"PRC volunteers and emergency response teams will be deployed to major thoroughfares such as North and South Luzon expressways, cemeteries and memorial parks to give emergency care and assistance to people who will suffer from heat stroke, wounds, hypertension and other illnesses. This is our commitment every year," said PRC Chairman Richard Gordon.

All Saints' Day is a feast celebrated on November 1 in honor of all the saints, known and unknown. The feast also commemorates all those who have attained the beatific vision in heaven, while the next day, All Souls' Day, commemorates the departed faithful who have not yet been purified and reached heaven.

(www.redcross.org.ph)

Red Cross launches international appeal after Typhoon Megi batters Philippines

2010-10-27T19:04:00.000-07:00

As details of the devastation caused by typhoon Megi continue to emerge, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is launching an international appeal seeking 4.2 million Swiss francs (USD 4.3 million/EUR 3.1 million). The funds will support ongoing relief and recovery efforts carried out by the Philippine Red Cross which has been assisting affected communities since the typhoon struck the northern part of the country last Monday, claiming 31 lives and causing severe damage across four regions.

It is estimated that 427,300 families (2 million people) have been affected by the typhoon, with 8,000 people sheltered in 22 evacuation centers. National and local emergency and rescue teams from the Red Cross have been active on the ground. A rapid survey of the damage revealed an urgent need for shelter materials, since 31,000 houses have been destroyed and 118,000 are estimated to be partially damaged.

"Survivors continue to trickle out of evacuation centers, not because they have homes to return to, but to salvage whatever they can. They need every support to rebuild their lives and to live in dignity," says Richard Gordon, Philippine Red Cross Chairman.

The Philippine Red Cross has provided – and continues to provide – food and non-food items to the most vulnerable families in the hardest hit provinces. The national headquarters dispatched additional relief supplies to enable its chapters to serve people displaced by the typhoon in the worst-affected provinces of Cagayan, Kalinga, Isabela, La Union and Pangasinan provinces. Also dispatched were tarpaulins to meet the immediate needs of 7,000 people in Isabela. As of 25 October, Red Cross chapters had served around 16,000 people with relief supplies such as food, water storage containers and sleeping items.

The IFRC appeal will help the Philippine Red Cross to provide relief and early recovery support to 60,000 people across the five worst-hit provinces over the next 12 months. The operation will focus on distributions of food and non-food items and shelter repair kits as well as providing essential water storage and hygiene items together with hygiene promotion.

The Philippines is hit by an average of 20 typhoons every year, roughly a third of which are destructive. In this region, experts have predicted an increase in frequency and intensity of extreme weather and climatic events due to the effects of climate change. In late September 2009, Typhoon Ketsana lashed parts of Luzon, bringing unprecedented rains. Ketsana was shortly followed by Typhoon Parma. The combined effects of the two typhoons resulted in widespread flooding which left a trail of destruction and killed 1,000 people. (Necephor Mghendi, IFRC)

Volunteers' selfless service for Typhoon Juan victims

2010-10-27T18:53:00.000-07:00

While looking for a job, newly registered nurse Julius Lansang volunteers for Philippine Red Cross in the meantime.

Richard Satuito (center) helps pack items for relief distribution to Typhoon Juan-affected people as part of his volunteer work for Philippine Red Cross to fulfill his community service requirement in school.

Pia Faustino celebrates her birthday by helping Philippine Red Cross pack relief goods for the families affected by Typhoon Juan.

PRC Cotabato Chapter responds to a bus bombing incident

2010-10-21T23:58:00.000-07:00

The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) Cotabato Chapter responded to a bombing incident involving a rural bus at around 10:45 a.m. yesterday, October 21, 2010.

In a report from the PRC Cotabato Chapter, the improvised explosive device is a cellphone-operated 81 mm mortar placed on the third to the last seat overhead bin of the said bus.

PRC Cotabato Chapter Emergency Response Team (ERT), headed by Bryan Balmediano, immediately responded to the area, rendered first aid and transported victims to the nearest hospitals.

Twelve (12) injured persons are confined in Kidapawan Hospital, eight (8) in Amas Hospital and four (4) in Malang District Hospital.

Likewise, 10 persons were reported dead namely, Bryan Galagan, Danding Usop Daligan, Lita Mansano and Noriel Akmad and six (6) bodies are still being identified by the authorities.

PRC Cotabato Chapter also provided 30 units of blood for the emergency medical treatment of the victims as well as tetanus toxoid and tetanus antibody.

(www.redcross.org.ph)

Philippine Red Cross Serves 1,754 Typhoon Juan Affected Families

2010-10-21T19:03:00.000-07:00

To date, there are 93 operational evacuation centers all over Luzon to temporarily cater the families severely affected by Typhoon Juan’s wrath; and based on Philippine Red Cross (PRC) Operation Center’s report, as of 8 am today (October 21, 2010), 3,220 families (or approximately 13,889 persons) are currently residing in the said designated evacuation centers.

Among the said victims, it has been recorded that PRC was able to serve a total of 1,754 families, or around 7,635 persons within the localities of: Abra, Kalinga, La Union, Benguet, Pangasinan, Baguio, Tarlac, and Cavite. And included in the services rendered by the said humanitarian organization are handing out of food items in the form of relief packs and hot meals, and essential non-food items such as sleeping mats and blankets.

"As you can see in our current statistics, we’re merely halfway in serving the total population affected by Typhoon Juan," PRC Chairman Richard J. Gordon pointed out in accordance to the abovementioned report. "Apparently, despite our noble intention to provide most—if not all—of them with their primary needs, what we have at hand is practically not enough," he explained.

In line with this, he personally relayed his plea to all PRC partners, donors and supporters to once again join them in their humanitarian endeavor. He said: "We cannot go through this pursuit alone. We are still in dire need of assistance in order to alleviate these typhoon-affected families’ suffering; and with this, your support—be it monetary or in-kind—will truly be appreciated."

To donate, kindly visit http://www.redcross.org.ph/donatenow

Volunteers repack relief goods for Typhoon Juan victims

2010-10-20T00:34:00.000-07:00

For the benefit of the unfortunate Filipinos who have been affected by Typhoon Juan, several Philippine Red Cross(PRC) volunteers gathered in PRC National Headquarters to help repack relief goods around 2 pm today, October 19, 2010.

Among those who responded despite her busy schedule was PRC Ambassador Angel Locsin who dropped by the PRC National Headquarters to join hundreds of other volunteers in repacking relief.With 200 sacks of rice, 139 boxes of noodles and 60 cases of sardines at their disposal, the said group of volunteers are expected to produce relief packs that are meant to serve at least 2,000 families.

PRC Assists a Pregnant Woman in the Midst of Typhoon Juan’s Assault

2010-10-18T22:30:00.000-07:00

Around 12 am today, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) Pangasinan Chapter received an emergency call from its Barangay Disaster Action Team (BDAT) in Barangay Bonuan Binloc, Dagupan City.

Apparently, a pregnant 26-year-old woman from Sitio Japan named Melissa Donato was then having an impending delivery, and was in need of immediate transportation to the nearest hospital in the midst of Typhoon Juan’s assault. At once, PRC Pangasinan Chapter deployed one of its teams to assist the vulnerable lady. They safely transported her from their home to Region I Medical Center.

In San Fabian, Pangasinan, on the other hand, PRC Pangasinan Chapter Emergency Response Unit (ERU) found 29-year-old Anna Vidal together with her two children—AJ Vidal, 4 years old and Ogie Vidal, 2 years old—lifeless inside their collapsed house. Unfortunately, a tree uprooted by Typhoon

Juan’s strong winds fell over their humble abode, which instantly caused their demise. Immediately, PRC Pangasinan Chapter coordinated with the concerned local government unit for necessary assistance in recovering the bodies of the victims.

Meanwhile, now that Typhoon Juan is on its way out of the Philippines’ area of responsibility, PRC National Headquarters and La Union, Benguet, Kalinga and Baguio City Chapters are currently working double-time in repacking relief goods that are bound for distribution. And in order to cater to the vulnerable victims’ immediate need for food, PRC also provided supplemental feeding of hot meals in Cavite and Pangasinan, where they were able to serve 426 and 893 persons, successively.

Typhoon Juan: PRC set for Watsan Assessment and Relief Distribution

2010-10-18T22:26:00.000-07:00

Philippine Red Cross (PRC) will mobilize rapid assessment and water and sanitation (watsan) teams in provinces badly affected by Typhoon Juan (international name: Megi).

Provinces currently placed under signal no. 3, including Cagayan, Isabela, Kalinga, Mt. Province and Ifugao, will be the priority of the assessment and watsan teams.

With the declaration of state of calamity in Isabela, the PRC chapter in the province needs human resources and logistics support of PRC National Headquarters.

In response, PRC purchased sacks of rice, boxes of noodles and cases of sardines for distribution to Isabela and other areas.

PRC volunteers and staff are likewise readying prepositioned emergency supplies such as blankets, hygiene kits and beddings for distribution to highly affected provinces. These supplies are sufficient to serve thousands of families.

PRC is also ready to provide emergency health and hygiene to communities in the affected areas.

In case family members get separated during the height of the supertyphoon, social workers of PRC are on standby to restore family links.

As of this writing, 909 families (3,732 persons) have been reported to be staying in 22 evacuation centers in Cagayan, Kalinga, Isabela and La Union.

The provinces of Apayao, Kalinga, Aurora, La Union and Isabela are currently experiencing power interruption due to Typhoon Juan.

PRC braces for Tropical Storm Megi

2010-10-16T22:20:00.000-07:00

With Tropical Storm Megi expected to enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility between 12:00 and 2:00 a.m. tomorrow, Philippine Red Cross (PRC) is preparing for the possible landfall over the eastern coast of Cagayan-Isabela area on Monday afternoon.

The PRC-Operation Center is constantly monitoring this weather disturbance.

As of 10:00 a.m., Megi, which will be codenamed "Juan" once inside the Philippine territory, was spotted 1,300 kilometers east of southern Luzon.

PRC advised its Emergency Response Units to stand by for possible deployment as Megi is expected to bring rains as much as that of Ondoy to affected areas.

Rescue equipment, rubber boats, generator sets, fuel and vehicles are likewise ready should the tropical storm cause landslides or floods.

Additional emergency supplies are being provided to PRC chapters in Luzon. PRC staff and volunteers are also starting to pack relief items such as food, sleeping items and hygiene kits which will be distributed in the aftermath of the tropical storm.

Below are some reminders on what to do before, during and after the typhoon.

Before the Typhoon
-Store an adequate supply of food and clean water. Prepare foods that need not be cooked.
-Keep flashlights, candles and battery-powered radios within easy reach.
-Examine your house and repair its unstable parts.
-Always keep yourself updated with the latest weather report.
-Harvest crops that can be yielded already.
-Secure domesticated animals in a safe place.
-For fisher folks, place boats in a safe area.
-Should you need to evacuate, bring clothes, first aid kit, candles/flashlight, battery-powered radio, food, etc.

During the Typhoon
-Stay inside the house.
-Always keep yourself updated with the latest weather report.
-If safe drinking water is not available, boil water for at least 20 minutes. Place it in a container with cover.
-Keep an eye on lighted candles or gas lamps.
-Do not wade through floodwaters to avoid being electrocuted and contracting diseases.
-If there is a need to move to an evacuation center, follow these reminders:
-Evacuate calmly.
-Close the windows and turn off the main power switch.
-Put important appliances and belongings in a high ground.
-Avoid the way leading to the river.

After the Typhoon
-If your house was destroyed, make sure that it is already safe and stable when you enter.
-Beware of dangerous animals such as snakes that may have entered your house.
-Watch out for live wires or outlet immersed in water.
-Report damaged electrical cables and fallen electric posts to the authorities.
-Do not let water accumulate in tires, cans or pots to avoid creating a favorable condition for mosquito breeding.

(source: www.redcross.org.ph)

Turnover of Transitional Shelters and Livelihood Program

2010-10-16T21:59:00.000-07:00

PRC Chairman Richard Gordon (center), PRC Secretary General Gwendolyn Pang (right), International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) Country Representative Selvaratnam Sinnadurai (second from left), IFRC Shelter Delegate Ahmed Nazri Zacharias (back) and PRC La Union Chapter Administrator Almira Abrazado (left) visit the beneficiaries of PRC’s transitional shelter project in Naguilian, La Union.

Hiyasmin Abenes, a beneficiary of PRC’s transitional shelter and livelihood project in Naguilian, La Union, shows her product to PRC Chairman Richard Gordon. Besides constructing 172 full shelters, PRC also provided livelihood assistance to some families in La Union to reestablish their basic means of generating household income.

La Union typhoon victims get roofs above heads

2010-10-16T21:54:00.000-07:00

By Gabriel Cardinoza
Inquirer Northern Luzon
First Posted 21:04:00 10/09/2010

BAUANG, La Union, Philippines—For almost a year, Corazon Estigoy and her family lived in a small box-like structure she called “cubicle” in the coastal village of Pugo here.

It was built from materials found in the ruins of their house that was crushed by floodwaters at the height of Typhoon “Pepeng” in October last year.

“We were cramped like sardines then,” says Estigoy, 51. Six of her eight children live with her. Her eldest works in Metro Manila, while another has a family of her own and stays in another house.

But on Wednesday, Estigoy and 36 other Pugo residents received “transitional shelter” from the Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC) in ceremonies held in Naguilian town.

“It’s called ‘transitional shelter’ because the structure is in between [the category of] emergency and permanent shelters. Transitional shelters can only last from seven to 10 years,” says Almira Abrazado, PNRC La Union chapter administrator.

Abrazado says 172 such shelters were given to typhoon victims in 19 villages in Bauang, Naguilian, Bagulin, Aringay and Tubao towns.

“We could not have built this house by ourselves,” says Estigoy, who earns P2,500 a month as barangay secretary. Her husband is a tricycle driver.

Her new house, which has a floor area of 20 square meters, has sawali (bamboo slats) for walls and galvanized iron sheets for roof. It was built with a toilet and a septic tank.

“We required every beneficiary to help construct the shelters so they will have a sense of ownership,” Abrazado says.

A beneficiary’s counterpart, she says, also includes the improvement of the house, such as providing floors and partitions.

Estigoy used plywood panels and hollow blocks in her house’s frontage. She also has glass jalousie windows.

“We hope we can also have concrete floors and partitions soon,” Estigoy says.
Judy Perez, a shell gatherer who lives about 100 meters from Estigoy’s house, says he could not still believe he and his family now have their own house.

After the flood, all he could build was a makeshift shelter made from whatever material is available.
“I was very lucky to have been given this house,” Perez says.

Abrazado says there should have been more beneficiaries in La Union but not all of the typhoon victims met the criteria that the PNRC had set.

Aside from losing their houses to Pepeng, beneficiaries should also own the land where the transition shelter would be built.

“Or if they do not own the land, they should be able to get a permission from the landowner,” Abrazado says.

The location of the beneficiaries was also important. Abrazado says they should not be in “unsafe” areas, such as riverbanks or mountain slopes.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/regions/view/20101009-296871/La-Union-typhoon-victims-get-roofs-above-heads

Gordon: We wait for disaster to come, then we panic. . .

2010-10-16T21:44:00.000-07:00

By Leila B. Salaverria, Miko Morelos
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 02:51:00 09/25/2010

MANILA, Philippines—Former Sen. Richard Gordon is ready for an onslaught by another Tropical Storm “Ondoy”—he has fitted out his SUV with a “snorkel” which, he says, should prevent his vehicle from being stalled in floods.

But Gordon, who heads the Philippine National Red Cross, is worried that millions of his countrymen may not be as equally prepared.

According to him, the best protection people can have is to learn how to save themselves long before the disaster comes. It’s the government’s job to clean the esteros, but people need to know when to leave before a flood, or a landslide, occurs.

He considers this “national indifference” the biggest obstacle in the way of disaster preparedness.
“We’re very lackadaisical,” he says in an interview as the anniversary of the massive floods unleashed by Ondoy in Metro Manila last year approaches. “We wait for disaster to come, and when it comes, that’s when we panic and start assigning blame.”

Gordon’s “snorkel” is actually the black exhaust pipe of his SUV which he has extended high on one side of the vehicle so that it rises above its roof. Other PNRC vehicles have been fitted out with similar “snorkels.”

Gordon believes that innovation would enable him and his Red Cross team to cross floodwaters and reach victims should another deluge strike.

Such preparedness is something that Gordon fails to see in most Filipinos despite the massive loss of lives the country suffered in the wake of Ondoy.

Gordon notes that not long after the pummeling from Ondoy, many have returned to live on riverbanks and near esteros and canals, clogging the drainage systems that are supposed to drain rainwater and prevent floods.

Proactive leader

But it can change, he says, with a proactive leader.

“It doesn’t take an Ondoy, it takes a leader to change that mind-set,” he says.
This entails not just preparing for tragedy but reducing the risk of such events—such as by relocating people who live in flood-prone areas and having an urban management plan that forbids people from living in such places and requires strict compliance with the building code.

The government could also teach people how to prepare for and respond to calamities, a task that private sector groups, such as the Red Cross, is doing.

Gordon notes that the government has bought equipment, such as rubber boats, in case another typhoon ravages the country, but he also points out that there has just been a changing of the guard, and with it comes new people manning the disaster mitigation offices.

Continuity is an important factor in disaster preparedness, he adds.

Cycle of disaster

Gordon says tragedy need not strike again for people to be jolted into knowing how to take themselves out of harm’s way.

“You must stop the cycle of disaster and poverty and the only way you can do that is if the people themselves know where to go, where to live and what are the threats in their community and they prepare actively for it,” he says.

For its part, the Department of Social Welfare and Development, has put in place various plans to bring speedy relief to calamity victims.

More prepared now

Social Welfare Secretary Corazon Soliman believes the lessons of Ondoy have not been lost on Filipinos and that people are more knowledgeable now about what they need to do when a disaster is upon them.

“I think we’re more prepared now. Citizens are more aware,” Soliman says.
She notes that in Marikina, one of the cities hardest hit by Ondoy’s wrath, many houses have been provided with boats which the residents could use if the waters rise again.

There is also closer monitoring of the rain and water levels in critical areas, she says. The environment department has also provided local governments with a geohazard map so that they could identify the areas prone to landslides during heavy rains.

Relief goods in place

Soliman says DSWD relief goods are also in place. Packs of goods have been distributed to regional offices.

Stocks of relief goods in the DSWD warehouse have been clearly labeled and stamped with expiration dates.

Earlier, a blogger claimed the DSWD had left relief goods for Ondoy victims to rot in its warehouses—a claim former Social Welfare Secretary Esperanza Cabral denied.

The DSWD has also inked a partnership with companies that provide trucking, heavy equipment, pharmaceuticals, mobile kitchens and portable toilets during calamities, according to Soliman.

They won’t leave

Housewife Cristina Cacao, 53, and her family live within swamping distance of Laguna de Bay, the third largest freshwater lake in Asia, and may well be among the people Gordon worries about.

“We cannot just leave our way of life to be relocated elsewhere,” Cacao says. Her family lives in a rented two-story house at Sto. Nino Aplaya, a community of 98 families in Muntinlupa City who rely solely on fishing for their livelihood.

“The people are okay with this setup. My family likewise don’t mind,” Cacao says.
When a storm starts battering Muntinlupa and the rest of Metro Manila, Cacao and the others scamper to evacuation centers or to higher grounds.

They return when the weather clears to resume their lives.

“We’re content with this,” she says.

‘People are stubborn’

Cacao, the leader of a women’s group called Samahang Kababaihan ng Sto. Nino Aplaya, insists that life in the community, no matter how hard, is still better than in relocation areas because they have fishing to rely on.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20100925-294188/Gordon-We-wait-for-disaster-to-come-then-we-panic--

Turnover of Water Search and Rescue (WASAR) Equipment

2010-10-16T21:41:00.000-07:00

Philippine Red Cross (PRC) Chairman and CEO Richard J. Gordon formally turned over water search and rescue equipment and personal protective equipment to six PRC chapters—namely, Valenzuela, Laguna, Pampanga, Rizal, Pangasinan and La Union—in order to improve the PRC’s efficiency and readiness in conducting rescue operations.

In a welcome twist, HK Red Cross pledges fund aid for ‘Ondoy’ victims

2010-10-16T21:33:00.000-07:00

By Leila B. Salaverria
Philippine Daily Inquirer First Posted 06:34:00 09/26/2010

MANILA, Philippines—The bloody end to the recent hostage-taking of a bus full of tourists did not just give rise to grief, strained relations and tense exchanges between the Philippines and Hong Kong.

In an unexpected, but welcome, twist, it has led to the Hong Kong Red Cross pledging US $110,000 to the Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC) for the program to build shelter for the thousands of victims of typhoon Ondoy (internationally known as Ketsana) whose homes were swept away by the raging floods.

Timely assistance

PNRC Chair Richard Gordon said Betty Lau, acting head of the International and Relief Service of the Hong Kong Red Cross informed him of the donation in a letter, after she thanked him for the “timely and much-needed assistance” that the PNRC provided to the Hong Kong tourists held hostage in a bus in Manila.

“Learned from you during our meeting in Hong Kong that the Typhoon Ketsana shelter program is still in need of funding, please kindly be informed that we still have a donation of USD110,000 approximately which can be mobilized for supporting the Typhoon Ketsana shelter program,” Lau said in her letter.

While the hostage-taking played out live on TV for 11 hours, the PNRC was quietly working in the background, according to Gordon.

The PNRC provided sanctuary and comfort to the passengers released early on.

As the hours crept by and tourists still remained in the hijacked bus, the PNRC placed its ambulances on standby. When the incident reached its tragic end when the hostage taker began shooting, PNRC volunteers were among those who jumped into the bus, gave first aid and CPR, and rushed the wounded to the hospital. Eight tourists, plus the hostage-taker, did not make it out of the incident alive.

The PNRC volunteers also watched over the injured 24 hours a day, even sleeping in the hospital rooms. They counseled the tourists to help them come to terms with the tragedy. One of the victims tried to give money to the volunteers to show her gratitude, but they refused to accept it, Gordon said.

Crucial task

He said the PNRC also accomplished another crucial task in the shocking aftermath of the incident.

It traced the location of the victims and was able to provide information to Hong Kong authorities, through the Hong Kong Red Cross, about the whereabouts and condition of its citizens, especially given the frenzy that marked the bringing of the hostages to the hospitals.

Gordon was, coincidentally, in Hong Kong when the hostage taking was unfolding, but was constantly in touch with the
PNRC.

“What Hong Kong needed was information as to where their people were,” he said.

Gordon said the PNRC's operations have been set up in such a way that there is an organized system of collecting information and tracking people, as these data are as important as the medical and physical assistance it provides.

The PNRC chair also said the organization continues to be involved in helping the victims of Ondoy, which, a year ago today, submerged parts of Metro Manila and damaged homes, vehicles and property.

The PNRC has been building houses for the victims, including 1,100 in Antipolo, 200 in Pangasinan and 120 in Bulacan. It has also repaired over 5,000 damaged houses, and has the budget to repair more.

The PNRC is also more equipped than ever to come to the aid of those who may be stranded in floods. It recently acquired two amphibian vehicles that could navigate submerged streets and collect people trapped in their homes.

http://globalnation.inquirer.net/news/breakingnews/view/20100926-294351/In-a-welcome-twist-HK-Red-Cross-pledges-fund-aid-for-Ondoy-victims

Quirino Grandstand Bus Hostage Crisis

2010-10-16T21:29:00.000-07:00

On August 23, 2010 the Quirino Grandstand Bus Hostage Crisis occurred when a dismissed Philippine National Police (PNP) officer took over a tour bus in Intramuros, Manila. Disgruntled former senior inspector Rolando Mendoza, from the Manila Police District (MPD) hijacked a tour bus carrying 25 people – 20 tourists, a tour guide all from Hong Kong and 4 Filipinos in an attempt to get his job back.

PRC Emergency Response Team coordinates with Ground Commanders in Quirino Grandstand

Six (6) ambulance teams from the Philippine Red Cross(PRC) National Headquarters and the Manila Chapter, Pasay Chapter and Caloocan Chapter were immediately dispatched to the scene that morning. PRC also activated other Metro Manila Chapters for possible assistance and alerted the Blood Bank for possible blood supply needs.

PRC Social Services conducted critical incident stress debriefing to the nine (9) hostage victims released that afternoon from the Quirino Grandstand Bus Hostage Crisis. PRC facilitated the transfer of the nine freed hostages from the Command Outpost back to the Manila Pavillon Hotel where they were checked in.

After about ten hours into the siege, negotiations broke down and the ensuing rescue assault and shootout resulted to the death of eight (8) hostages and Mendoza and nine (9) other people were injured. PRC ambulance teams transported four (4) victims to Manila Doctors Hospital and one (1) to Ospital ng Maynila when the hostage crisis ended that evening.

PRC Chairman Richard J. Gordon, who was on vacation in Hong Kong at that time immediately communicated with the Hong Kong Red Cross (HKRC) and provided a tracing report of all victims that night.

In an interview with CNN Rosemarie Church the following Tuesday morning August 24 in Hong Kong, PRC Chairman Gordon commiserated with the victims and the families saying that “what is most important is that we express our deepest condolences and prayers to the families and victims and I think I speak for the entire Filipino nation who don’t want this tragedy to happen but things go haywire that is where the investigation will clear a lot of things, hopefully.”

CNN Rosemarie Church Interview with Chairman Gordon

He further told CNN about the initiatives of the organization during the crisis with PRC immediately responding and sending ambulances and medical personnel and rendered psychosocial support and tracing to all victims as well as his subsequent communication and meeting with HKRC counterparts that day.

CNN Anna Coren Interviews Philippines Siege Survivors

In an interview with CNN’s Anna Coren from an interview in Manila on August 24 with survivor Li Yik Bun mentions that it was Red Cross who facilitated his release after they were informed by his wife of his medical condition. PRC had passed on the information to Ground Commanders who negotiated his release. The Chinese newspaper Hong Kong Economic Times (HKET), in an article dated August 28, 2010 also mentions in detail PRC humanitarian care and assistance of victims particularly Mrs. Fu and her two children who lost their husband and father, respectively.

Mrs. Fu’s daughter Fu Chung Yin, four years old could not discern the meaning of death but her son Fu Chak Yin, ten years old could not bear to lose his father Fu Chuk Yan and had nightmares and cried a lot that he had to be comforted to sleep by PRC Social Worker Noemi Abon. Mrs. Fu even offered money to Ms. Abon to express her appreciation to the PRC but that the latter refused to accept, stating that it was their duty in the PRC to help and if they want, they may donate instead later through HKRC. HKRC Secretary General KM Chan thanked PRC Chairman Gordon saying that during the latter’s visit on August 24 to the formers office where they had a fruitful exchange “We are also so deeply grateful for the care your staff and volunteers had done to the HK hostages.” And that they would look for a suitable occasion to visit the PRC. HKRC Acting Head for International Relief Services Betty Lau expressed her deep gratitude for Gordon’s visit to HKRC office and “ the timely much needed assistance rendered to the needy during the tragic hostage taking incident in Manila.” HKRC Acting Head Lau even committed the assistance in the amount of US$ 110,000 for the victims of Typhoon Ketsana or known locally as Typhoon Ondoy when informed by Chairman Gordon of their continuing plight. Above the criticism, finger pointing and blame fixing during the Quirino Grandstand Bus Hostage Crisis, we must recognize the PRC for their courageous efforts during the tragedy being “Always First, Always Ready, Always There” during every disaster or tragedy.

Red Cross awards a Check to Maguindanao Massacre victim's family

2010-07-05T00:16:00.000-07:00

Red Cross Awards a Check to the Wife of the Late Newsman Alejandro Reblando. Philippine Red Cross Chairman Richard J. Gordon (3rd from the left) and Secretary General Gwendolyn T. Pang (4rd from the left) hand over a Php 300,000.00 worth of check to Mrs. Myrna Reblando (2nd from left)—widow of the deceased Manila Bulletin reporter, Alejandro Reblando—on June 29, 2010 at PRC National Headquarters Board Room. Also present in the said event are National Press Club President Jerry Yap (left), Ms. Rowena Nicolas (3rd from right) of Gotuaco Del Rosario Insurance Broker, Inc., and Ms. Laarni So (2ND from left) and Ms. Claire Rivera of Prudential Guarantee.

Alejandro Reblando is one of the 57 people brutally slain last November in Ampatuan, Maguindanao. Apparently, he was among the 1,200 members of National Press Club (NPC), which Chairman Gordon himself sponsored to avail of the Philippine Red Cross’ Premiere Platinum Membership with Accident Assistance Benefits last January 12, 2009, through a memorandum of agreement with then NPC President Benny Antiporda; thus, entitling his family to receive the aforementioned monetary assistance.

Maestranza wall restoration a step towards reviving the glory of Intramuros

2010-06-16T09:58:00.000-07:00

WATCH Video of Maestranza Wall Inspection

The completion of the walls of Intramuros, with the restoration of the Maestranza Wall, should signal the start of developing the Walled City as a historic and cultural landmark, Senator Richard J. Gordon today said.

“In restoring the Maestranza wall, we reclaim not only our history and heritage but also chart a bold, new direction for our country’s future,” Gordon said.

“The Maestranza restoration project as well as efforts to revitalize Intramuros is not just about bringing our past back to life for students of history, it is also about giving livelihood to thousands who will benefit from increased tourist traffic,” he added.

The refurbished Maestranza Wall, which was inspected by June 16 by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, Tourism Secretary Ace Durano, Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim and Gordon, is part of the latter’s vision to make Intramuros the Philippine’s largest cultural and historical museum like the Smithsonian Institute.

During his term as tourism secretary, Gordon had secured a commitment of $5-million donation from the Japanese government, through former Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Kojiro Takano, to help in rebuilding the part of the wall of Intramuros that was destroyed in World War II.

Other projects envisioned for Intramuros include an Islamic-Ecclesiastical Center apart from different types of museums that will undertake the exhibition and safekeeping of various archeological and historical treasures.

“Intramuros tells us the story of thousands of Filipino heroes who fought against two global super powers and won our nation’s freedom. It also tells us that our freedom is something we continue to fight for as we do the work of lifting millions out of poverty, providing security to those under threat, and create economic opportunities,” Gordon said.

“The walls of Intramuros remind us that we must challenge ourselves to continuously fight to break free from the walls in our minds. With these significant points, we hope that the next administration would continue to support current efforts to restore Intramuros to its rightful place,” he stressed. (30)

WORLD BLOOD DONOR DAY: Gordon urges youth to donate blood

2010-06-16T09:36:00.000-07:00

As the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) joins different countries across the globe in celebrating World Blood Donor Day, PRC Chairman Richard Gordon encouraged the youth to become voluntary blood donors.

PRC recruits young people in various schools to become voluntary blood donors through the Pledge 25 Program. The organization contributed 38% of the country’s national blood collection in 2009.

“I urge the youth to make a difference in the community by donating blood and enlisting other young people to become donors,” said Gordon.

The World Blood Donor Day takes place every June 14 to pay tribute to people who voluntarily donate blood and thereby help save lives. Since 2004, this event has been jointly sponsored by four principal agencies: the World Health Organization (WHO), the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), the International Federation of Blood Donor Organizations (IFBDO) and the International Society of Blood Transfusion (ISBT). For this year, the celebration is dedicated to young donors, with the slogan “new blood for the world.”

“I hope that the younger generation will emerge as a new set of unpaid donors who will provide quality and safe blood supply when the need arises,” stated Gordon.

The PRC chairman also expressed his gratitude to individuals who regularly donate blood without expecting any reward.

“I would like to thank all selfless blood donors who make up the foundation of a safe blood supply. Patients who were saved from the deathbeds owe their lives to these unsung heroes,” said Gordon.

To ensure the public of an adequate blood supply, PRC intensifies its blood donor recruitment activities. All PRC blood service facilities collect blood from low-risk population through community mobile donations involving Project 143 blood donors. Project 143 is a volunteer recruitment project which endeavors to recruit at least 43 volunteers in every barangay, nine of which will promote voluntary blood donation.

Print bigger ovals in future polls

2010-06-03T04:28:00.000-07:00

MANILA, Philippines—Something as simple and logical as using bigger ovals in the ballot could prevent the threat of millions of votes being nullified in future elections.

Defeated presidential candidate Sen. Richard Gordon made this suggestion Thursday after noting that the ovals in the ballots used in the May 10 elections were printed so close together in a lengthy piece of paper.

“There was such a big room for error, especially for people with poor eyesight. I had to be extra careful while shading,” Gordon said in Filipino.

The senator as reacting to reports that up to three million votes would be nullified if those cast in the vice presidential race were declared null.

Among the reasons: the shading of more than one oval in the space for vice president; an improperly shaded oval and votes that were not tallied at all in the certificates of canvass because of incomplete transmissions by automated machines.

“I would not (blame) lack of education (for null votes) because there was a lot of education in informing the voters what do to. It was a matter of being careful in marking the ballot. It's really carelessness. In school, we learned to follow instructions,” the Bagumbayan standard-bearer said in a news conference Thursday morning.

“The rules were clear. Mark the oval. Don't mark more than one oval in positions that require only one person. If a voter shades two ovals, that is a problem not related to education. That's just carelessness,” he added.

Nullified votes, Gordon noted, should be blamed on human error and not on the precinct count optical scan machines that were programmed to recognize properly-shaded ovals.

“The machines are disciplined to count votes properly. If (people) put marks properly and not (shade) twice for the same position, then there would be no problem,” said Gordon, chair of the Senate committee on electoral reforms.

Lawyers of vice presidential candidates Makati Mayor Jejomar Binay and Sen. Mar Roxas are at loggerheads over whether the Commission on Elections should recognize faulty ovals.

Roxas' lawyer complained that the number of null votes for vice president was noticeably high in areas considered his bailiwicks.

Gordon also suggested that ballots in future elections should have a different lay-out with the names of the standard bearer and his running mate printed one above the other so that voters can locate and shade them more easily.

“A more organized lay-out of the names of standard bearer and running mate would have made things easier for voters. Also a shorter ballot. There (were) too many presidential candidates, there's got to be vetting because there were too many independents. Unfortunately, you cannot legislate that there should only be two parties to shorten the ballot. If we had bloc voting, that would be automatic. You vote for the president and his running mate,” Gordon said.

The senator also offered other, more realistic reforms that would help the Comelec handle future elections.

“We need to overhaul Comelec (by) putting more computer literate individuals because young people now are becoming more literate so we need more and more of these young people,” he explained.

Gordon also wants the government to consider implementing the much-ballyhooed national ID system. “If only to save money, automate the registration in the national ID system and have it double as the holder's card for either the Social Security System or the Government Service Insurance System,” he said.

Gordon also wants the Comelec to consider allowing voting and registration in supermarkets and malls, “for two to three days in transparent areas, especially in the provinces so people do not have to converge in schools all the time.”

“If we make registration automated, then Comelec registrars would be a thing of the past. And we need to go back to having only three Comelec commissioners,” he said. At present, there are six commissioners and one chairman in the poll body.

Print bigger ovals in future polls, says Gordon

By Cathy C. Yamsuan
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 18:43:00 06/03/2010

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20100603-273641/Print-bigger-ovals-in-future-polls-says-Gordon

Tourism needs cerebral, pragmatic head

2010-06-03T04:26:00.000-07:00

Defeated presidential candidate Senator Richard Gordon said on Thursday he is not going to lobby for any position in government when president-elect Sen. Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III formally assumes his position after being proclaimed by Congress.

But Gordon said he would consider any government post should Aquino offer him one.

“Well I love my country but I’m not going to lobby for any position in this country. Even as tourism secretary (before) I did not lobby for it,” Gordon said in a weekly press conference at the Senate.

“If Noynoy thinks I can be of service then I’ll think about it but I’ll respect whatever he wants,” Gordon said.

But the outgoing senator urged Aquino to study very carefully the people he considering for any Cabinet position.

Gordon, in particular, pointed out that the next administration should consider appointing somebody “cerebral and pragmatic” for the Department of Tourism.

Senator Aquino had earlied mulled on appointing celebrity host Eugenio “Boy” Abunda Jr. as the next Tourism Secretary. Abunda, however, declined Aquino’s invitation.

“Tourism is very important you have to get somebody that is not from showbiz but also one who is cerebral and pragmatic,” Gordon said.

“It’s because the tourism industry has many facets, it’s not only about advertising. We need representation in the World Tourism Organization,” he added.

Tourism needs cerebral, pragmatic head - Gordon
By HANNAH L. TORREGOZA
Manila Bulletin

June 3, 2010, 5:43pm

http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/260435/tourism-needs-cerebral-pragmatic-head-gordon

Implementing rules to address hunger signed

2010-05-18T02:43:00.000-07:00

Primary authors of the Food Donation Act of 2009, Sen. Richard Gordon (third from the left) and Rep. Ed Zialcita (second from the left), proudly present the newly signed Memorandum of Agreement on the Implementing Rules and Regulations of the aforementioned resolution. Joining them in the said momentous event are Philippine Red Cross Secretary General Gwendolyn Pang (extreme left) and Department of Social Welfare and Development Acting Secretary Celia Capadocia-Yangco (extreme right).

Different government and social welfare agencies are now one step closer in enforcing the law on encouraging the donation of food for charitable purposes following the signing of the implementing rules and regulations (IRR) governing the Food Donation Act of 2009 at the Philippine National Red Cross (PRC) National Headquarters Office in Port Area, Manila Monday.

Senator Richard Gordon, the author of the bill that had been passed last November 2009 and chairman of the PRC, explained that the singing of the IRR was vital in order to implement the provisions of the Act that seeks to address the increasing hunger in the Philippines.

“The law is extremely important because most people had measly income to feed their family. With the signing of the IRRs we will be able to truly implement the law and finally get our work done in giving services not only during times of calamity but also everytime the public needs social help,” he told the Manila Bulletin in a chance interview.

“Many claim and try to associate themselves with the poor but I didn't. I just walk the talk. I did what I have to do and this was the fruit of what I had done,” he added.

Aside from Gordon, also present in the IRR signing were Paranaque first district Rep. Eduardo Zialcita, co-author of the Act, PRC secretary general Gwendolyn Pang, Union of Local Authorities in the Philippines (ULAP) president and Mandaluyong Mayor Benjamin Abalos Jr., Social, Welfare and Development (DSWD) acting secretary Celia Capadocia-Yangco, Food and Drug Administration (FDA) acting director Nazarita Tacandong and Hotel and Restaurant Association of the Philippines president Humprey O'Leary.

Implementing rules to address hunger signed

http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/257814/implementing-rules-address-hunger-signed
By LEONARD D. POSTRADO
May 17, 2010, 5:34pm

Statement on May 10, 2010 Elections.

2010-05-11T00:00:00.000-07:00

I would like to congratulate Sen. Aquino for his spectacular victory. I call upon the nation to unite and support him.

I would like to thank everyone who supported me especially my volunteers and those who gave up their limited resources as a manifestation of trust in my brand of leadership and track record.

I ran a very truthful, straightforward and candid campaign and thought that we could run on the basis of our platform, track record, vision and volunteerism.

I would like to congratulate all the winners and pray that they serve our country well.

We accept the will of the people.

Today, we have a victory for democracy with the succesful exercise of our first nationwide automated elections despite naysayers and doubters.

The fight for this country goes beyond this day. Let us forge on in building a Bagumbayan for our people.

FAILURE IS NOT AN OPTION.

2010-05-05T03:33:00.001-07:00

“Failure is not an option,” said Bagumbayan presidential candidate Richard Gordon, on mounting questions on the credibility of the PCOS machines to be used in the May 2010 elections.

"Focus and get to work. If it is necessary to move the election date by a week to ensure reliability of the machines, then do it. Work on the solution."

"These are tough decisions but they have to be made. Any CEO knows that problems arise at the last minute but panic is pointless because it does not solve the problem."

“I hate to say ‘I told you so’ but that seems to be the case. I pushed for partial automation as proof of concept from the time we started committee hearings in 2005 until 2007, and if we had done so in May 2007 in 2 provinces and 2 cities as required by the law, or even during the barangay elections in October 2007, we would have caught these glitches sooner. But in the Senate I was practically alone in my advocacy.”

The Senate and the House of Representatives ratified the automation law in December 2006, and the law was passed in January 2007. No pilot test of automation was done until the ARMM elections in August 2008.

“All that is in the past. Now we need to fix the problem, not fix the blame. I’m calling on the Comelec, the automation Advisory Council, and Smartmatic to step up to the plate. Stay the course, solve the problem. Failure is not an option."

Unfazed by recent bombings, Gordon goes to Basilan

2010-04-23T05:47:00.001-07:00

(Isabela City, Basilan)—Bagumbayan Party presidential bet Sen. Richard J. Gordon did not let recent bombings in Basilan stop him from going to the island to talk with the people and present his platform.

Gordon was not only the presidential candidate who saved hostages in Basilan, but he was also the only one who brought his campaign to Basilan, where a series of bombings, including an attack on the Cathedral occurred this month.

“Ako lang ang tumatakbong presidente na pumunta dito sa inyo. Hindi ako katulad ng iba na natatakot dahil magulo daw dito. Paano mo maaayos ang peace and order situation dito sa Basilan kung hindi mo pupuntahan,” he said at a town hall meeting held yesterday (April 21) at the Basilan State College.

“The bombings are just isolated incidents. I have been to Basilan several times and it has always been a peaceful town. What is needed is for the government to give attention to the province so that it would develop and its people will be uplifted. We should develop Basilan’s tourism industry and create a Freeport zone here,” he added.

In 2000, Gordon saved a number of hostages from the clutches of the Abu Sayyaf. Some of them attended the town hall meeting and committed to support Gordon’s presidential bid. Christinely Diva and Nova Verallo were not in the event but their relatives were there—sister Leonilyn and father Birang, respectively.

Gordon pointed out that in order for the country to progress, people should shed their regionalistic attitude.

“We should always think as one nation. Dapat isipin natin na Pilipino tayong lahat, hindi yung Kristyano kami, Muslim kayo. Lahat tayo magkakapatid,” the Bagumbayan standard-bearer said.

“We just have to give our Muslim brothers respect, understanding and acceptance. And there should be effective governance,” he added. (30)

Rosary from Lola Remedios

2010-04-12T19:10:00.000-07:00

During a sortie in Bulacan, Lola Remedios gave Dick Gordon the blue rosary he had when asked to empty his pockets at his guesting on Tonight with Arnold Clavio at QTV. In return, Gordon gave Lola Remedios his brown rosary given to him by a nun during the height of Mt. Pinatubo explosion in 1991.

Comelec: Don't allow sample ballots, surplus of watchers

2010-04-12T18:56:00.000-07:00

Tagbilaran, Bohol--Bagumbayan presidential candidate Sen. Richard Gordon today urged the Commission on Elections (Comelec) to prohibit the distribution of sample ballots and to limit the number of poll watchers in precincts on election day.

Gordon said the Comelec should not allow the distribution of sample ballots because it could be used to jam the machines, besides being costly and unfriendly to the environment.

"I'm calling on Comelec Chairman (Jose) Melo not to allow sample ballots. I've told them that before in my hearings at the Senate. That's an unnecessary expense. They could use that to jam the machine to delay the elections. Besides, what is complicated about shading a circle?" he said.

"It's environmentally-unfriendly, ostentatious and it's an insane misuse of valuable resources that could go to the poor. And it will definitely be a tool for cheating, for vote-buying. Magbibigay kunwari ng sample ballot pero may butas yun, ipapatong dun sa papel, then the voter would shade," he added.

Gordon explained that sample ballots are unnecessary since people would no longer have to write down the names of the candidates they would vote for. Instead, they will only have to shade the circle beside the name of their chosen candidate.

The Bagumbayan Party standard bearer also asked the Comelec to prohibit multiple poll watchers and limit it to only one per precinct.

"May I also request the Comelec to limit the so-called poll watchers because it can only be used, again, as a form of vote-buying. There should only be one, instead of 7 or 20, watcher, mabilis na eh, wala ng magbabasa. Multiple watchers are paid in the guise of protecting the integrity of the elections," he said.

Gordon, author of the Amended Automated Elections System (AES) Law, said that although the AES solves the problem of wholesale cheating, there are still other forms of cheating, such as vote-buying, which no computerized machine can avert.

"The most ridiculous thing about our country is that we look at elections as improving the economy because corruption money is distributed all over the place--jueteng money, drug money, name it, it's being distributed all over," he said.

"That is why I call on the Comelec, I call on all the commissioners, do not allow sample ballots; do not allow a surplus of poll watchers," he added.

Christian Bishops support Gordon’s campaign for good governance

2010-03-27T03:34:00.000-07:00

Bagumbayan presidential bet Sen. Richard Gordon has gained the support of members of the Christian Bishops and Ministers Association of the Philippines (CBMAP) in his campaign for good governance.

Gordon signed a covenant with the Christian organization led by its chairman, Bishop Benjamin Ramos, during the CBMAP Presidential Forum at the Manila Yacht Club. Among the presidential candidates, it was only Gordon who attended the event.

“I agree with what is written in this covenant. But do you agree, as well, to campaign with me for good governance?” Gordon asked the CBMAP members after signing the covenant.

The response was a loud “Yes” from the members, who also prayed over the Bagumbayan presidential bet.

The covenant which the two parties signed primarily states that Gordon, when elected President, shall seek God’s will and wisdom in carrying out his plans and decisions as the leader of the country; while the CBMAP shall support him by strengthening the moral fiber of the nation.

Gordon said he had always asked for God’s wisdom whenever he makes a decision, especially as a leader of his community.

“During the Mt. Pinatubo explosion, I asked Him to give me strength. I did the same when the US military left the Subic naval base. I always ask for God’s wisdom and strength when I make such decisions for the people,” he said.

“I know I am capable of doing what needs to be done in our country, but I cannot do it alone. The public’s role is to be part of the government. You must inform me of what is happening so that I can act right away. I can lead, but people must be part of the process of change. That is how we can have the cleanest, most honest and most effective government,” Gordon added.

To rivals who backed out of Harapan tandem debate: “You cannot handle the pressure of facing the people’s questions”

2010-03-27T03:09:00.000-07:00

Bagumbayan Party presidential bet Sen. Richard J. Gordon expressed disappointment with his fellow candidates who backed out of ANC’s Harapan tandem debate.

Gordon pointed out that candidates who refuse to face questions from the people and from their fellow candidates are afraid that the public might see the reality behind the television ads.

“I’m sorry na nangyari iyan. Ang kaibahan ng eleksyon ngayon ay kailangan ipakita ng kandidato yung kakayahan nila. Hindi lang yung kakayahan nilang gumastos ng pera o kakayahan nilang gamitin ang impluwensiya ng kanilang pamilya,” he said when asked to comment on candidates who backed out of the debate.

“Kung hindi humarap ang kandidato ibig sabihin hindi niya kaya ang pressure na humarap sa mga tanong. Siya ay naniniguro na siya ay mananalo dahil sa ginagawa nilang pag-kondisyon sa utak ng mga tao na siya ay panalo na,” he added.

The Bagumbayan standard-bearer stressed that it is a big mistake on the part of those candidates because the people are beginning to see the need for discernment in choosing the country’s next leaders.

“Nakikita ko nagbabago na ang pag-iisip ng mga tao, nakikita na nila na ang kandidato kailangan meron talagang maipapakita na kaya niyang gawin,” he said.

“Kapag hindi humarap ang kandidato, nawawalan ang tao. Malaking pagkakamali nila iyan na dapat singilin ng taongbayan. Dapat malaman nila kung anong klaseng leader ang magiging presidente nila. Pag hindi natin nakilatis ang presidente at puro TV ads lang, ang nakikita lang natin ay yung make-up, yung make-believe world,” he added.

ABS-CBN’s “Harapan: The Tandem Presidential Debate” scheduled for Sunday night was cancelled, after several presidential and vice-presidential candidates declined to participate.

The only presidential and vice presidential tandems to have confirmed attendance are Gordon and his running mate former Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Bayani Fernando, and Bangon Pilipinas tandem of Bro. Eddie Villanueva and former Securities and Exchange Commission chief Perfecto Yasay.(30)

Gordon wins UP system-wide mock polls

2010-03-25T02:05:00.001-07:00

Bagumbayan presidential candidate Sen. Richard Gordon is the top choice as the next President of the Philippines according to the recently-concluded system-wide mock elections of the University of the Philippines.

Gordon, a graduate of the UP College of Law class 1975, was elated with the results, stressing that such mock polls challenge the results of pre-election surveys conducted by survey firms.

“I’m happy because this is not a survey, it’s a mock election. And it is in mock elections like this where you can see the real pulse of the voters. This is much different from surveys, where you don’t know who commissioned it, what questions were asked and what was the methodology used,” he said.

With his impressive track record in public office, Gordon was chosen by the majority of the voters from the various UP campuses. Based on the final results of the mock polls titled Botong Isko 2010, which was conducted from March 18-25, Gordon got 1,236 votes (31.23%).

He was followed by Gilbert Teodoro (923); Sen. Manny Villar, Jr. (698); Sen. Benigno Aquino, III (591); Eddie Villanueva (100); Nicanor Perlas (79); Sen. Jamby Madrigal (32); Joseph Estrada (22); JC De Los Reyes (15); and Vetellano Acosta (3); while 259 of the voters are still undecided.

When he was a student of UP College of Law, Gordon topped the UP Student Council Elections in 1969. He is the chairman of the UP Alumni Association-Olongapo Chapter, and was the President of the UP College of Law Alumni Association in 2008.

Furthermore, his achievements had been recognized by the university when he was given the following awards: 1983 Professional Award in Public Administration and the 1997 Most Distinguished Alumnus (highest award) by the UP Alumni Association.

A member of the oldest and prestigious fraternity the Upsilon Sigma Phi, he was also awarded during its diamond year the 1993 Luminary Award for Exemplary Achievement in Public Administration and in 2000 the Upsilonian Noble and Outstanding (UNO ) its highest honors, by the Upsilon Sigma Phi Alumni Association.

Gordon has remained an active supporter of the university. As a senator, coinciding with the UP Centennial Celebrations of 2008, he partnered with the University Student Council (USC) for the renovation of the Vinzon’s Hall and provided a P5 million financial assistance to the UP Alumni Association for the restoration and upgrade of the UP Carillon.

Meanwhile, in a separate mock poll, Gordon was chosen by executives of multinational corporations operating in the Philippines as the best person to run the country over the next six years.

He topped a the poll participated in by 35 business executives and diplomats who attended the quarterly roundtable of the Wallace Business Forum in Makati City last March 18.

“There is where we see the big difference between mock polls and surveys. We have to be wary of those paid surveys. We have to put in mind that it is the competence, integrity and track record of the candidates that we must consider in choosing the next leaders of our country,” Gordon said. (30)

Their difference from other candidates: Gordon-Bayani offer proven change, track record

2010-03-21T18:26:00.001-07:00

Bagumbayan Party Presidential bet Sen. Richard J. Gordon said that he and running mate Bayani Fernando's edge over other presidential and vice-presidential aspirants is that they are capable of effecting change as proven by the successful transformation of the respective communities they have governed.

Gordon, speaking before barangay officials and other leaders of society in Pansol, Laguna, said that unlike the rest of the candidates, he Fernando are offering concrete measures to attain the transformational change that they envision.

"Tiyak magbabago lahat kapag umupo kami. Gordon-Bayani pagbabago, sigurado. Itaga niyo sa bato," he said when asked how they differ from the other presidential candidates who are also pitching their campaign on change as the tone for their campaign.

"Kami ang tinatanong kung kaya naming gawin sa buong Pilipinas ang pagbabagong nagawa namin sa Olongapo, Subic at Marikina. Bakit hindi niyo tanungin sa ibang kandidato kung nagawa na ba nilang baguhin ang mga bayan nila?" he added.

Gordon and Fernando dubbed their tandem the "Transformers" - their partnership, a fusion of two action men who aim to transform the hearts and minds of the people to build character and communities to create a better Philippines.

The two are former executives who both boast of a formidable track record of transforming their turfs into model cities. Gordon and Fernando are former mayors of Olongapo City and Marikina City, respectively.

Gordon is also the founding chairman of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority, who transformed the former American naval base into a Freeport and turned it into a model for successful bases conversion.

Fernando, on the other hand, is a former Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) chairman who successfully rid Metro Manila of sidewalk vendors who create obstruction and improved vehicular and human traffic flow in the metropolis.

"Kaya nating alisin ang lahat ng problema basta pumili tayo ng mga epektibong lider. Bakit yung ibang bansa, nagagawa nila? Darating ang araw tayo na ang magmamay-ari ng mga barkong ginagawa sa Subic. Taas-noo nating maipagmamalaki sa ibang bansa na tayo ay Pilipino," Gordon stressed.

Warm reception in Laguna elates Gordon

2010-03-21T18:25:00.001-07:00

Laguna--Bagumbayan Party Presidential bet Sen. Richard J. Gordon, who was the first presidential candidate to bring his campaign to the historic province, was elated by the warm welcome he received in the Laguna towns he visited in their two-day sortie.

Gordon, who was joined by his running mate Bayani Fernando later in the day, was hopeful that the warm reception meant that people are now more discerning in their choice of presidential candidate.

People rush excitedly outside their homes to get a glimpse of the senator, calling out "Si Idol, si Idol," as the motorcade passed the inner roads of Laguna on the way to the city or municipal halls of the towns that Gordon visited.

"Malakas si Gordon dito. Mas natuwa pa kami dahil siya mismo ang talagang pumunta dito sa amin para ipaliwanag niya ang kanyang mga programa kapag siya ay maibotong president," said an employee in the San Pablo City Hall, the first city visited during the sortie.

"Mabuti pa si Gordon. Siya pa lang ang pumunta dito para makipag-usap sa mga tao rito," the employee added.

Gordon, though elated by the warm reception he received, urged the people to weigh the candidates well before casting their votes on May 10 as he noted that the country has been steadily going downhill because the people have been electing the wrong kind of leaders.

"Ang masasabi ko lang, dapat mag-isip na tayo.Bumubulusok tayo pababa. Bastos ang pulitika dito sa atin dahil ginagawa nating laro. Subukan nating seryosohin, makakakuha tayo ng matinong lider," he said at a meeting with barangay officials and other leaders of the Pansol, Laguna society.

"Kaya nating alisin ang lahat ng problema basta kumuha tayo ng mga lider na epektibo. Tiyak mababago lahat kapag umupo si Dick Gordon. Gordon-Bayani, pagbabago, sigurado. Itaga niyo sa bato," the Bagumbayan standard-bearer added at the meeting held before retiring for the night.

Gordon gets another touching moment in campaign sortie, MV Asuncion survivor thanks Gordon for taking care of her

2010-03-21T18:24:00.000-07:00

When Bagumbayan presidential bet Sen. Richard J. Gordon visited Camarines Sur over the weekend, he did not expect that another touching moment would come his way--a reunion with a sea tragedy survivor he once took care of.

During a campaign sortie in the province last Saturday, the senator was approached by a tearful Maritess Maderal at the Milaor Elementary School. A surprised Gordon embraced the woman.

"I am really happy, and at the same time surprised, to see her. The last time I saw her she was still very young," Gordon said, recalling that he had almost adopted Maderal back then.

When the MV Asuncion sank off Zambales coast in December 1985, Maderal was one of the survivors. Gordon, who was then Mayor of Olongapo City, saw her when she was brought to a hospital in the town.

At that time Maderal was unaware if anyone from her family--parents and two siblings--survived the accident. Gordon decided to bring her and another girl, Lilibeth Acar, who lost her family in the same sea tragedy, to his house.

Maderal recalled that Gordon, along with his wife and children, treated her and Acar like their own family. Gordon was planning to adopt the two girls, but after eight months, Maderal's father arrived to fetch her. He proceeded to adopt Acar, who is now a physical therapist.

Last Saturday's incident is like what happened to Lilibeth Layno and Resty Sarmiento when Gordon visited Davao City and Bataan, respectively.

Layno, who is now a volunteer in Gordon's campaign, met the senator last January in Davao City and personally thanked him for helping her daughter, who was diagnosed with scoliosis, undergo surgery.

Meanwhile, Sarmiento, a professor at the Bataan Peninsula State University in Dinalupihan, approached Gordon after the latter's speech at the academe last February and expressed his gratefulness to the senator for giving him the opportunity "of helping himself achieve his goals."

Policemen used to go after Sarmiento when he was still a guava vendor in Olongapo City. Then Olongapo Mayor Gordon gave him a chance to work with dignity by giving him, and other co-vendors, a place in the market. He recalled that Gordon would even visit them at the market to see how they were doing.

Gordon said he feels so blessed to reunite with people he once helped, like Maderal, Layno and Sarmiento, stressing that such incidents give him the assurance that he is doing the right things and is on the right track.

"The passion, the drive to help intensifies because I know I am capable of doing it. I feel blessed because I am able to help," Gordon said.

Gordon to ensure development of agriculture, protection of farmers

2010-03-21T18:22:00.000-07:00

TUGUEGARAO CITY - To ensure improved food production, Bagumbayan Party presidential bet Sen. Richard Gordon will prioritize the development of agriculture and the protection of farmers once elected to the highest post in the land.

Gordon, speaking before students of the Central Colleges of Tuguegarao, underscored the importance of keeping abreast with the latest technological innovations in agriculture to improve food production so the country could stop importing.

"Malaking bahagi ng ating agricultural lands ang hindi fully irrigated o hindi irrigated. Pag na-irrigate mo lahat iyan, we don't have to import rice," he said.

"Dapat yung mga eskwelahan, tulungang i-train ang ating mga farmers sa makabagong pamamaraan ng pagsasaka para ma-doble ang ani. Maglagay ng mga post harvest facilities, gaya ng silo at drying facilities para hindi sa highway nagbibilad ng palay," he added.

Noting that due to climate change, the El Niño and La Niña phenomena, alternately take turns in holding the country in its grip, the senator proposed the creation of water catchment basins in the agricultural areas to hold the rainwater so it can be used to irrigate lands during the dry season.

Gordon said inmates in minimum security prison can be allowed to come out to dig the water catchment basins and repair the irrigation systems. They can be given an allowance or the days they will work would be taken as points for good behavior as reward for their hard labor.

The Bagumbayan standard bearer added that his administration will ensure the protection of farmers because they feed the people.

"My first rule is that the farmer has to be protected because they are in-charge of the country's food security. Kaya dapat bigyan mo ng lahat ng gamit yung farmer, gaya ng post-harvest facilities," he said.

"I am not adverse to subsidizing agriculture. Bakit yung ibang bansa pwede, tayo hindi? Sa Japan, subsidized ng gobyerno ang agriculture kaya ang farmers protected," he added.

Change in Mindanao must begin with the people Land of promise has become graveyard of broken promises due to ineffective governance

2010-03-10T19:31:00.000-08:00

Davao City--Bagumbayan Party presidential candidate Sen. Richard Gordon called on the Mindanaoans to take part and be involved in the process of change if they want to achieve peace and progress in Mindanao

"If you want change, you have to demand it, and change begins with you. You have to ask yourself what is your role. If change is to happen, it must be up to us," Gordon said during the Panaghisgut-hisgut Mindanao Presidential Forum at the Ateneo de Davao University.

Noting the diverse faith and culture of the people living in Mindanao, he added the importance of having a leader that is caring. "The president must show that he cares. There's a lot of exclusion going on in our country. We must learn to respect, understand and accept one another because we are all Filipinos."

He also stressed that peace and progress in Mindanao could be achieved if education is prioritized and if the people are provided with opportunities and options.

The senator explained that Mindanao, known as the land of promise, has become the graveyard of broken promises because of ineffective governance. He stressed, therefore, the importance of choosing the most qualified and most competent candidate to lead the country.

"How do we get Mindanao moving again? The answer is effective governance. If we do not think about the effectiveness of our leaders and you just go by the surveys, you go by what you see without analysis, you're gonna have more of the same thing," Gordon said.

The Bagumbayan standard bearer has been actively advocating programs and measures that would recognize the role of Muslims and indigenous groups in nation-building and would ensure the development of the whole of Mindanao.

Gordon is a co-author and sponsor of the proposed Mindanao Economic Development Authority (MEDA) Act, which would primarily carry out economic and social reforms in Mindanao to ensure the growth and development that the island deserves.

He also spearheaded projects aimed to develop Mindanao. One of these projects is the Fruits of Hope, which provided better profits for fruit farmers of Sulu, Basilan, North Cotabato and other parts of Mindanao when their harvest were flown to Manila where they were picked up by two supermarket chains.

Furthermore, Gordon, author of the Amended Automated Elections System Law, pushed for the automation of the August 2008 election in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), which was the first peaceful, speedy and orderly elections in ARMM where there were no election protests arising from the exercise.

Ateneo de Davao University dialogue

2010-03-09T17:41:00.000-08:00

DAVAO CITY: Bagumbayan Party presidential candidate Sen. Richard Gordon and his running mate, vice presidential bet Bayani Fernando (not in photo), conduct a dialogue with the students of Ateneo de Davao University, prior to a presidential forum hosted by the academe. Gordon urged the students to be ready to face the future by ensuring that they are equipped with skills and have developed leadership qualities, which are acquired not only through lessons inside the classroom but also by getting involved in extra curricular activities.

Gordon beats rivals at launch of 7-Eleven promo, student mock polls

2010-03-09T17:37:00.000-08:00

Despite his low ranking in political surveys, Bagumbayan Party presidential bet Sen. Richard Gordon won hands down as the most preferred next president of the country at the launch of the latest 7-Eleven promo and at various student mock elections.

At the launch of the 7-Eleven promo, wherein customers pick up a 160z Gulp Cup that bears the colors and image of their presidential bet, Gordon won with 31%, followed by Gilbert Teodoro (20%), Sen. Noynoy Aquino (18%), Sen. Manny Villar (13%), Bro. Eddie Villanueva (5%) and former President Joseph Estrada (4%). Nine percent abstained.

In a recent open-source mock polls, Gordon was also picked by students from the University of the Philippines (UP) College of Mass Communication (CMC) to be the next president of the Philippines.

"I'm happy that I was No. 1 in UP. It's not a survey, it's a mock election. Tunay na eleksyon yun. Ang nangyari, mababa si Noynoy, sumunod sa akin si Gibo. Doon makikita na nag-iisip ang tao. That's what we need to do," he said.

A survey result conducted by the Department of Journalism, which was released last week, showed Gordon garnering a total of 139 votes, representing 37.57% of the 370 enrolled students of the CMC who participated in the mock presidential polls.

Teodoro came in second in the survey with 107 votes, Aquino was third with 48 votes, and Villar placed fourth with 37 votes.

Last January, the Bagumbayan standard bearer also topped the mock elections at the Lyceum University, recognized by 40% of the attendees of the Lyceum Presidential Forum as the most capable among all the presidential aspirants today.

Gordon received 59 votes, followed by Teodoro (23), Aquino (20), Villanueva (17), Nicanor Perlas (10), Estrada (9), Villar (7), and Olongapo Councilor JC Delos Reyes (2).

Meanwhile, Gordon advised the public to be wary of paid surveys as they often cause the conditioning of the minds of the electorate and, eventually, steal the people's right to choose the best and most capable candidate.

"We have to be wary of these paid surveys. We do not even know if all our names are there, who commissioned the survey, what was the methodology and what were the questions asked. We must not let these surveys take away our right to choose who among the candidates is the most capable to be the next president," Gordon stressed.

"We have to put in mind that it is the record of service, the track record, and not the surveys, that matter in choosing the next leaders of our country," he concluded.

RP will have cleanest, most honest and effective gov't in Asia

2010-03-05T18:41:00.000-08:00

Cebu City--Bagumbayan Party presidential bet Senator Richard Gordon today said that when he becomes president, his aim is for the Philippines to have the cleanest, most honest and most effective government in Asia.

Gordon, who was in Cebu for a two-day sortie with his running mate Bayani Fernando, said that a leader must, first, have an aim, which he would share with the people and which he would make happen with the people.

"Today there is no governance in our country. In fact, the government has become the refuge of the scoundrel. This has got to stop, we have to change the system, and that is why I want to be President of this country," he said.

"Leadership by example--that's how we're going to make the people part of the process of change. We have to work with the people and fight corruption with the people. A leader must motivate the people. Bayani and I will do that and we will make sure that we will have the cleanest, most honest and most effective government in the whole of Asia," Gordon stressed.

The Bagumbayan Party standard bearer explained that in order to achieve such kind of government, corruption must be eradicated.

Gordon explained that there are several ways to stop corruption, such as, electing rather than appointing the Ombudsman so that he is beholden only to the people; having 24 hours open government offices so that corruption and other illegal practices can be reported right away; impose tougher penalties and stricter enforcement of law; and ensure that there would be no pardon for anyone convicted of corruption.

"Ineffective governance causes abject poverty and hopelessness. When there is no effective governance, there are only dreams. Under a Gordon-Bayani administration, there will be good and effective governance. That is not an empty promise," Gordon said.

LOST GIRL AT PANAGBENGA

2010-03-05T18:40:00.000-08:00

LOST GIRL AT PANAGBENGA: Baguio City— Bagumbayan Party standard bearer Sen. Richard Gordon helps out eight-year-old Evelyn Guinnor, who was seen crying at the Burnham athletic compound after she was separated from her mother during the Panagbenga Festival Flower Parade. Gordon left the child in the care of Department of Tourism-Cordillera Administrative Region officials, who looked for Evelyn’s mother, Nena. The senator also told the administration of the Burnham Park to put up a public address system so that important and immediate concerns such as incidents of missing persons could be promptly dealt with.

TRANSFORMERS INVADE TARLAC CITY

2010-03-05T18:38:00.000-08:00

TRANSFORMERS INVADE TARLAC CITY: Tarlac City—Welcomed by their local supporters clad in red shirts, the transformers tandem of Bagumbayan Party presidential bet Sen. Richard Gordon and vice presidential bet Bayani Fernando, visited Tarlac City and continued their consultation type of campaign. The tandem went around and stayed long at the Tarlac City public market, where most of the local folks were. Inset photo shows Gordon and Fernando aboard their new campaign truck.

CANCER PATIENT’S WISH

2010-03-05T18:30:00.000-08:00

CANCER PATIENT’S WISH: Bagumbayan Party presidential bet Senator Richard J. Gordon visits Alfonso Sepulveda, 12 years old and battling with Stage Four Leukemia. Sepulveda recently wrote to the senator expressing his strong admiration for Gordon’s tough stance against corruption which has been prominently on display since he took over as chairman of the Senate blue ribbon committee. Sepulveda also expressed a wish to meet Gordon in person.

Gordon-Bayani three-point plan against corruption

2010-02-24T18:32:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends,

Now that the campaign for president and vice-president is in full swing, Gordon and Bayani need you to join them in transforming our country. Together we will build a new future, without corruption and dishonesty, a future of opportunity, jobs and development. With your help success is guaranteed.

The first step is to eradicate corruption, the cancer that is eating away at the fiber of our society. Gordon and Bayani have a three-point plan which will clean the Philippines of corruption in three years.

1. Elected ombudsman
Politicians are able to go on stealing from the people because they appoint the ombudsman. Ombudsmen are only accountable to their corrupt politician friends, not to the people whose interest they should defend. Give people the power to protect their tax money. Give people the choice on who to prosecute for corruption. Let the people elect the ombudsman.

2. Tougher penalties and stricter enforcement
To end corruption we must create stronger disincentives against both giver and receiver. Our laws must be obeyed. President Gordon and vice president Fernando will ensure the rule of law is supreme. To create additional disincentives Gordon and Bayani will support minimum jail term for all acts of corruption, from small to big. In 3 years the Philippines will be as clean as Singapore.

3. No pardon for anyone convicted of corruption
Pardoning anyone or showing any leniency towards those convicted of corruption is what keeps the culture of corruption alive in the Philippines. In Olongapo Gordon was not afraid to arrest anyone, even policemen, suspected of corruption. In the Senate he was not afraid to ask for government officials to be arrested. He will put the corrupt in jail, whoever they are, and make sure they serve their terms.

The tide is changing. Honesty and integrity will defeat corruption and deceit. Together we will build a prosperous Philippines, with well-paying jobs, new opportunities and more rapid progress. Dick Gordon and Bayani Fernando are the only ones with the record to back up their words. They did it in Olongapo, Subic Bay, Marikina and Metro Manila. Now they will do it for the entire Philippines.

Join the wave of change. You too can make change happen! Please spread the word about Gordon and Bayani, volunteer your time or donate to help us bring real, proven change to the Philippines.

Pagbabago. Sigurado.
GordonBayani. com

In the wake of ASG commander Al Bader Parad's death, Gordon: Intensify long term peace investments in Mindanao, now

2010-02-24T18:21:00.000-08:00

Bagumbayan Party presidential bet Senator Richard J. Gordon today underscored that the government should intensify long term peace investments in Sulu and the whole Mindanao island to stop the war and ensure development in the region.

Gordon made the statement in the wake of reports that Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) commander Al Bader Parad and four others were killed in an encounter with the Philippine Marines in the mountains of Sulu.

"Sa palagay ko kaya nangyari yan dahil sa kakulangan ng governance. Kulang tayo ng gobyerno doon kaya ang mga tao napipilitang magdala ng baril at maging rebel. Dapat maiayos natin ang buhay doon para hindi na madagdagan ang mga ganyang tao na lumalabag sa batas," he said.

"Magkaroon sana ng tunay na pagbabago sa Sulu. Dapat magkaroon sila ng kabuhayan, magkaroon ng pagkakataon na maging farmer at maibenta sa tamang halaga ang mga prutas nila, magkaroon ng wastong edukasyon ang mga anak nila at mabigyan ng mga ospital. Kapag nagawa ng gobyerno lahat ng mga yan, sa halip na maging rebelled, ang mga taong ito ay magiging mga mabubuting mamamayan," he added.

Reports said Parad and four others were killed and three soldiers were wounded when Marines stormed the insurgent's hideout in Mt. Pukay in Barangay Karawan, Maimbung, Sulu. The Marines were on patrol when they spotted the band of Parad.

Last year, Parad led an ASG band that seized and held hostage three officials of the International Committee of the Red Cross.

Gordon called on the ASG to return to the fold of the law and participate in talks with the government to find lasting peace in Mindanao.

Gordon with rescued 18 students and a teacher taken as human shields by the Abu Sayyaf in Maluso, Basilan March 2000

"Mas mabuting mag-usap kesa magbarilan. Ang kailangan natin ay mabuting pamamalakad ng pamahalaan na magbibigay ng oportunidad sa mga tao upang hindi sila mapilitang magbitbit ng armas at mgrebelde," the Bagumbayan standard bearer said.

43rd death anniversary of Mayor James Gordon marked on Feb. 20

2010-02-24T18:11:00.001-08:00

February 20, will mark the 43rd death anniversary of James Leonard T. Gordon, the first municipal mayor of Olongapo City, and father of Bagumbayan presidential candidate Sen. Richard J. Gordon.

Mayor Gordon then just 50-was shot by an assassin as he stepped into Olongapo's City Hall on Feb. 20, 1967, and died a few hours later aboard a US Navy hospital ship in Subic Bay. While four men were arrested and imprisoned for the mayor's murder, the mastermind was never identified and prosecuted. The gunman, Nenito Alincastre, had just been released from Muntinlupa and was known to be protected by political and criminal syndicates in Olongapo whom the crusading mayor had fought against. It was the fourth attempt on Gordon's life.

The young Richard, then a fresh college graduate, had left Olongapo that morning for his new job in Manila, little knowing that his father's kiss that morning would be his last. As soon as he learned about the shooting, he sped back to Olongapo, but it was too late to catch his father alive.

Mayor Gordon's death was a traumatic moment for Dick, but it would also transform him into a man driven by a lifelong quest for justice. Because of the unsolved murder, Dick became a lawyer.

Following in the footsteps of his father and his mother Amelia-herself a formidable civic leader-Dick entered public service, becoming the youngest delegate to the 1971 Constitutional Convention, mayor of Olongapo, the founding spirit and chairman of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority, Secretary of Tourism, and Senator of the Republic. Dick also followed Amelia into the Red Cross, which he would serve for more than 40 years, and whose board he now chairs.

Although his father was an American soldier from New York and while he could have opted for American citizenship, James Gordon was every inch a Filipino, and fought hard for the dignity and progress of his fellow Filipinos. His mother, Veronica Tagle, was the daughter of a hero of the Philippine Revolution against Spain-Col. Jose Tagle of Imus, Cavite, whose forces routed those of Gen. Aguirre on Sept. 3, 1986, helping to turn the tide of the revolution.

In his own quest to serve his people in high office, Sen. Gordon says that it is the example of these two family heroes-as well as that of his mother, who died November 17-that sustains his hope and faith. "I will continue to fight for justice, not just for my father and my family, but for all Filipinos who have suffered too long at the hands of the powerful and the corrupt," Gordon declared on the eve of Mayor Gordon's death anniversary.

Gordon to senatorial wannabes: Senate is a 'debating chamber'

2010-02-05T02:59:00.000-08:00

Senator Richard J. Gordon gave a good advice for Filipinos eyeing a seat in the Senate - prepare to engage in discourses because Congress is an arena for debates.

Gordon pointed out that people who are elected to the Senate should have the ability to engage in debates and discourses, particularly those on proposed measures to ensure that they are well crafted.

"Dapat maintindihan na kapag dumating ka sa Senado, kailangan makipagtalakayan ka, kailangan sumagot ka. This is a debating chamber. Alam mo ang rules, alam mo ang regulations. Kailangan alam mo ang gagawin mo dito sa Senado," he said.

"When you are elected to the Senate, you are supposed to possess the qualifications to speak, to propose, to contravene, to defend and to oppose. Kapag hindi ka humarap diyan, then there is something wrong. May kakulangan. I remember one senator here who once said, "hindi mo pwedeng gawing Kindergarten yung Senado,'" he added.

The senator gave the advice when he made a manifestation after Sen. Manny Villar refused to be interpellated and immediately left the Senate premises after he broke his two-year silence by giving a privilege speech on the accusations hurled against him in connection with the alleged anomalies in the C-5 Road extension project.

During his six-year term in the Senate, Gordon has delivered more than 100 privilege speeches on various issues and filed more than 200 bills and resolutions, combined.

Gordon was also one of the regular participants during floor discussions and debates, articulately voicing out views on the subject under discussion.

Expounding on his advice, the senator added that senators should be knowledgeable on a wide range of topics to enable them to participate confidently and capably in discussions and debates.

"Dito sa Senado, kung hindi natin maitataas ang kamalayan natin dito, wala tayong business na pumunta rito sa Senado. I'm on my last days in the Senate and I appeal to those who are going to join the Senate, when you are here, as in the past, dapat humanda kang tumayo rito kahit wala kang binabasa," he said.

"Dapat haharapin mo ang mga kasamahan mo, makikipagdebate ka, gagamitin mo ang nalalaman mo sa batas, yung natutunan mo sa experience mo sa buhay. It is a conglomeration of everything - your education, your experience, your philosophy, yung iyong mga advocacy," Gordon added.

Gordon wants to kill corruption

2010-02-05T02:57:00.000-08:00

Bacolod City — Sen. Richard Gordon yesterday said he decided to run for president because he wants to kill corruption, which has held back the growth of the country, and to push for the creation of economic zones in Negros Occidental.

"I'm trying to sell you a future," Gordon said of his bid for the presidency. Gordon was in Bacolod with his running mate, Bayani Fernando, to meet with their supporters.

He pointed out that corruption has been the biggest robber in the country.

"Corruption has killed this country. Everybody has learned to be corrupt. The government is absolutely corrupt," Gordon said.

He noted the existence of corruption in various government offices.

"There is corruption in the military so the soldiers do not get the bullets they need. There is corruption in government's management of transportation so people get killed in sea mishaps. There is corruption in the Department of Public Works and Highways so less school buildings are built," Gordon said.

As president, Gordon said he would kill corruption so there would be enough money to raise the salaries of teachers and to provide better education, and other much needed services of the people.

He also vowed to move for the creation of economic zones in Negros Occidental.

In the area around the Bacolod-Silay Airport in Silay City, he said an export processing zone for factories of candy and other high-value products made from sugar that was abundant in Negros could be set up.

An economic zone for information technology or a theme park for tourism could also be created at the old Bacolod airport, he added.

Gordon also cited mining as a source of funds to improve the Philippines, pointing out the $1 trillion in minerals located in the country.

Even if only 10 percent of the country's mineral deposits could be tapped, he noted that the earnings generated would be enough to pay the country's foreign debt.

Gordon added that he would work hard to ensure that Filipinos find their future in the Philippines and not in foreign shores.

Gordon, who cited his 33 years in government service, also maintained that he was the most prepared to be elected president of the Philippines in 2010 because he has the experience. INQUIRER

Gordon eyes to create ecozones in NegOcc

http://politics.inquirer.net/view.php?article=20100202-250880

February 02, 2010 10:03:00

Cebu Daily News

Gordon gets another term as Red Cross chairman

2010-02-05T02:53:00.000-08:00

Having proven that his leadership of the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) has made the latter the premiere humanitarian organization in the country, Senator Richard J. Gordon was given another mandate by the PRC's Board of Governors when it re-elected Gordon as chairman during their election last Thursday.

Gordon, PRC chairman for three consecutive terms now, expressed his gratitude for the support and confidence his colleagues manifested in electing him for the fourth time.

"I am very grateful to my colleagues for the support and confidence that they have shown by renewing my mandate to lead the Philippine Red Cross to greater heights in humanitarian service and alleviating suffering humanity, especially those who are most vulnerable," he said.

"I enjoin everyone in the organization to work with me for its continuous growth so we can sustain the Philippine Red Cross' image and status as the premier humanitarian organization in the Philippines, in terms of services provided and number of people served," he added.

Aside from Gordon, the newly-elected officers of the Board of Governors include Leslie W. Espino, vice chairman; Corazon Alma G. de Leon, secretary; Atty. Rodolfo O. Reyes, assistant secretary; Leonida B. Ortiz, treasurer; Ramon C. Locsin, assistant treasurer; and Atty. Lorna Patajo-Kapunan, counselor.

The Board of Governors selected Reyes and Patajo-Kapunan as members of the Board. Chester Villanueva, National Youth Council president, was also welcomed as a member of the Board to represent the youth.

Gordon, who has served as a volunteer in the Red Cross for more than four decades, strengthened and modernized the rescue capabilities of the organization through the acquisition of emergency response vehicles including ambulances, fire trucks and first aid motorcycles.

He also initiated the establishment of an additional 27 blood service facilities, making all 96 local Red Cross chapters capable of blood banking services, as well as acquired new equipment for the Operations Center to ensure efficiency and quick response in disaster monitoring.

With these new support services, Red Cross is more equipped and ready for rescue and retrieval operations during disasters.

Gordon's leadership likewise paved the way for the PRC to become a donor society and reciprocated assistance from other national societies. Thus, the PRC contributed funds to help victims in other disaster-stricken nations such as the Asian tsunami disasters, hurricane Katrina in the United States and the recent Haiti earthquake, among others.

"I hope to strengthen the Philippine Red Cross even more" the re-elected PRC chairman said.

THUMBS UP FOR CADIZ CITY

2010-02-05T02:51:00.000-08:00

THUMBS UP FOR CADIZ CITY: Senator Richard J. Gordon, Bagumbayan presidential candidate, joins the people of Cadiz City, Negros Occidental in celebrating the 36th “Dinagsa” Festival. “Dinagsa” Festival is the people’s way of giving thanks to the sperm whales that flocked to the town in 1967, which brought an outpouring of blessings. Bayani Fernando, Gordon’s vice president, also joined the celebration.

Duty First

2010-01-26T23:48:00.000-08:00

DUTY FIRST: Robert Lamberte, a disabled 13-year old boy, receives a blanket from Philippine Red Cross Chairman Senator Richard Gordon during the latter’s visit to the Nabitasan Elementary School in Iloilo City, where victims of the recent Iloilo fire sought temporary shelter. Gordon was in Iloilo over the weekend for the Dinagyang Festival, but before joining the festivities, he did his duty first and checked on the situation of the victims. Gordon was joined by Bagumbayan Party vice-presidential candidate Bayani Fernando.

Gordon to maritime gov't agencies: Don't wait for another sea tragedy

2010-01-26T23:46:00.001-08:00

Senate blue ribbon committee chairman Senator Richard Gordon today said that the government must immediately work on modernizing the country's maritime industry and stressed that it should not wait for another sea tragedy before it gets the work done.

"Our country holds the unflattering distinction for having the world's worst peacetime maritime safety record. Whenever a ship sinks, we conduct investigations left and right, but nothing really happens. At the end of the day, after all the media hype, everything will be forgotten until another ship sinks, and the cycle of tolerance�tolerance for the incompetent, the unsafe and the greedy--goes on," Gordon said.

"We are not going to allow that anymore. This committee will make sure that something will happen out of this investigation. Our objective is to have a world class maritime industry, and we can start by ensuring the safety of passengers traveling in our seas," he added.

After five hearings on recent maritime disasters, the blue ribbon committee found out several lapses in the enforcement of maritime laws by government agencies and in the practice of safe sea operations by shipping companies.

Gordon said that the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC), the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) and the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) ought to ensure that all laws relating to maritime operations and safety are being enforced properly.

He added that Marina and the Insurance Commission are not doing their job in protecting the public interest because they allowed the implementation of a rule that passengers who are not in the manifest but are victims of sea tragedies will not be covered by the insurance companies.

"We have to require 'no fault insurance'. That means when a sea vessel sinks, even if the passenger is not included in the manifest, as long as he is onboard that ship, the insurance company will have to pay. The Marina can immediately impose that in order to protect the public," the senator stressed.

"The Marina should impose stiff penalties for ships that do not provide complete passenger manifest. We have to change the system. The manifest must be submitted before departure," he added.

Gordon also said that the government must apply international standards for domestic shipping. On the other hand, private shipping lines should upgrade the level of standards of their vessels and they must hire certified captains and competent crew.

"We have to upgrade the shipping industry by providing incentives. When a company acquires new ships, they should be given incentives for that. There must also be a re-evaluation of major and minor patrons who man passenger ships. We should know their capabilities and they ought to be assigned to posts or duties equal to their nautical knowledge and capacity," Gordon said.

Gordon most capable to be next RP president, Lyceum poll says

2010-01-26T23:45:00.000-08:00

Bagumbayan-Volunteers for a New Philippines Party standard-bearer Senator Richard Gordon is the most capable among all the presidential aspirants today, a poll from the Lyceum of the Philippines showed.

Gordon, who pleased the crowd of students from different universities in Manila, foreign diplomats and business leaders during his speech at the Lyceum Presidential Forum on Wednesday, received the highest number of votes during the mock election that was done at the end of the program.

The Bagumbayan presidential bet received 59 votes, followed by Gilbert Teodoro (23), Sen. Benigno Aquino III (20), Bro. Eddie Villanueva (17), Nicanor Perlas (10), Former President Joseph Estrada (9), Sen. Manny Villar (7), and Olongapo Councilor JC Delos Reyes (2).

During the forum, Gordon explained his policy of governance and sent a clear message that everyone must take part in transforming the nation and breaking free from a transactional society.

"When I look at governance I always think in terms of vision, values, volunteerism equals victory. To my mind, leaders ought to know where they are going. They have to uplift the level of values, of dignity, of behavior and performance of their people; uplift not just the standard of living, but also the standard of values; not just making them receive the hand-out, but making sure that all hands are carrying the load of the nation," he stressed.

Gordon said the Philippine Government is faced with many challenges, primarily the cycle of disaster and poverty, the ongoing war in Mindanao, and the corruption not just in the government but in the whole society.

He explained that these problems can be resolved by a government that is focused, fast, friendly, flexible and forward-looking.

The senator presented his governance agenda, which included his top six policies: (1) Responsible budget deficit reduction program by minimizing fraud, waste and abuse, while maximizing revenues and services; (2) Burden-sharing by forging genuine partnership with local government units and the private sector; (3) Investing in people by ensuring quality population through quality education; (4) Disaster proofing the nation to end the cycle of disaster and poverty; (5) Strong political will and leadership by example; and (6) Re-engineering the government through a system of meritocracy.

"This is how Gordon's governance will be. People must be part of the process of change. I will try to explain my vision to the people. Vision is a mental picture of the future which is certainly better than what is today. Vision will require challenges; work ethic, a sense of duty, dignity and determination are required for us to achieve our vision," Gordon said.

Absolutely no governance in maritime industry. Incompetence and corruption cause loss of lives at sea.

2010-01-26T23:41:00.000-08:00

Senate blue ribbon committee chairman Senator Richard Gordon today said that the absence of governance in the maritime industry is appalling, as shown by the apparent failure of government agencies to protect the public who travel at sea.

"My mind and my whole being is aghast at the abysmal negligence of our government. There is no governance at sea in this country today--absolutely no governance! There is just greed, tolerance for the incompetent, the unsafe and the greedy. We are not going to allow that anymore," Gordon said during the blue ribbon committee hearing on maritime disasters.

"The object of this investigation is to protect the public. And with five hearings, we have seen the many cases of incompetence and corruption which are causing us more than money. It causes us the loss of many lives," he added.

The senator said that the Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) and the Insurance Commission (IC) have failed to protect the public, especially the victims of sea tragedies, because of their rules that are unfriendly to the people.

He said he could not understand why these agencies did not publish their rules that state that passengers who are not in the manifest will not be covered by the insurance companies, stressing that such policy seem to be pro-ship owner and anti-passenger.

"We cannot understand why the Marina and the Insurance Commission, in order to cure the evil of overloading, created a greater evil where the passengers who are not included in the manifest but are victims of maritime tragedies will totally have no way of recovering from insurance companies," Gordon said.

He stressed that there must be immediate remedy to other problems surrounding the maritime industry including the non-compliance to the submission of a complete passenger manifest before departure; the continued use of inland water ships in open seas; the manning of passenger ships by unlicensed captains; and the wanton disregard of safety rules such as proper lashing of vehicles in roll on-roll off vessels.

"We must ensure that there will be no deaths, no accidents at sea just because of the incompetence and greed of a few. The policy right now is pro-insurance company, pro-ship owner, and unfortunately, it is almost anti-passenger," Gordon said

"The government should be focused on its duty to protect the public interest, particularly in formulating passenger insurance policies, and in recommending to Congress the kind of insurance protection that our people deserve," he added.

E-BOOKS FOR PINOY STUDES

2010-01-20T16:09:00.001-08:00

E-BOOKS FOR PINOY STUDES: Senator and Bagumbayan presidential bet Richard J. Gordon wants the government to distribute Kindle, an electronic device that can store up to 9,000 books, to all students in the country in lieu of textbooks. Gordon was talking about his advocacy of improving the country’s education system by making education the No. 1priority at the presidential forum held at the Lyceum of the Philippines in Intramuros, Manila.

Senator and Bagumbayan presidential bet Richard J. Gordon today said he wants the government to distribute a Kindle to all students across the country instead of spending so much on textbooks, most of which are erroneous.

Gordon made the statement at the Lyceum of the Philippines presidential forum in reaction to the latest United Nations (UN) Report that in the absence of decisive political leadership, the Philippines is in danger of missing the goal of achieving universal primary education by 2015.

"We spent so much money on books, right? Mali-mali pa. Here's a little computer called Kindle. You can put the entire curriculum, from Grade 1 to high school to college here. Every kid should have kindle. He who reads, leads," he said. . "Before China does it and before India does it, the Philippines should be the first ones to use electronic books in school," he added, explaining that Kindle is an electronic device that can store up to 9,000 books and costs $250 each.

This proposal, according to the senator, is part of his programs for improving the country's education system, which, the UN Report said, is trailing behind the African nations of Tanzania and Zambia.

"The UN said education poverty rates among the poor are four times the national average. Our Constitution mandates that education must be given priority. But in the budget, No. 1 is debt servicing, No. 2 is the IRA (Internal Revenue Allotment) for local governments, while education is only at No. 3. We should be spending 6% of GDP or P444 billion on our education," Gordon said.

The Bagumbayan Party standard-bearer also said that aside from raising the salaries of teachers to at least P40,000, there should also be upgrading of teaching competence through continuous training to be able to address the low proficiency level of students especially on Math, Science and English.

"Every teacher should get P40,000. That's my ideal. Not P12,000, but P40,000. Japan pays P77,000. In Singapore, they pay P122,000 a month. We must also understand that better teachers would pave the way for better and well-informed students. Continuing educational program for teachers is a must for our society today," he stressed.

Gordon has long been advocating for the upgrading of standards of the country's education system. He has a bill pending in Congress, called the Health and Education Acceleration Program (HEAP), which aims to spearhead the rehabilitation and improvement of the education and health systems.

BETTER TEACHERS PRODUCE BRILLIANT STUDENTS

2010-01-20T16:07:00.000-08:00

BETTER TEACHERS PRODUCE BRILLIANT STUDENTS: Senator and Bagumbayan presidential bet Richard J. Gordon points out the need for raising teachers’ salary to at least P40,000. Gordon further said at the First Presidential Forum held at the Philippine Normal University that upgrading of teaching competence through continuous training would address the low proficiency level of students, especially in Math, Science and English.

BREAKING THE WALLS IN THEIR MINDS

2010-01-20T16:01:00.000-08:00

BREAKING THE WALLS IN THEIR MINDS: Senator Richard J. Gordon encourages young students of the St. Mary’s Academy Pasay City to learn about the country’s history so they can step into the future with pride and confidence. Part of their school field trip, the young kids were touring the Lights and Sound Museum in Intramuros, Manila which is housed in the former Religious of the Virgin Mary (RVM) Beaterio. The museum was among Gordon’s projects during his stint as tourism secretary.

Provident fund for OFWs

2010-01-19T17:00:00.001-08:00

Senator Richard Gordon, Bagumbayan-Volunteers for a New Philippine Party standard-bearer, has proposed the creation of a provident fund for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) that would help them save and invest their money for their social security.

During the Carlos P. Romulo Foundation Presidential Policy Forum, Gordon discussed his earlier proposal of creating the Philippines' own provident fund for OFWs, patterned after the Central Provident Fund (CPF) of Singapore.

"We always say they (OFWs) are our heroes, but what kind of a future are we going to give back to them? Singapore has four and a half million people and they have a central provident fund of $30 billion. We have nine million Filipinos overseas that can participate in a provident fund," he said.

Gordon, who first brought up the issue of creating a provident fund to Labor Department officials during a Senate hearing last year, noted that only a few OFWs, those who are recruited by a foreign-based employer who have availed of voluntary coverage, are covered by the Social Security System (SSS).

He said that the government must create a program that would help Filipinos who are working abroad make good use of their money.

"The formula here is to work, save and invest to prosper. We can have our people who are overseas contribute to a provident fund. We would make sure that we have a large amount of savings that can be used to provide a future for them, build homes, provide insurance, provide education, and provide a retirement fund for them," Gordon explained.

He added that this kind of program would broaden the opportunities available for OFWs. Likewise, it would give them a sense of security and confidence. But Gordon stressed that the better thing to do is still to provide opportunities here for the people so that they will not have to find their future in foreign shores.

"If we improve our educational system, our people will have choice. Instead of going abroad, they can have choice here. We have to find ways and means of improving the countryside, so that we can all find our future in Filipinas, our own native homeland," Gordon said.

Invest in teachers to improve RP education

2010-01-19T16:58:00.001-08:00

Senator Richard Gordon stressed the need to invest on teachers to significantly improve the quality of the country's education system, which has been lagging behind compared to neighboring countries.

At the Kilalanin Presidential Forum held at the De La Salle Zobel School in Alabang, Muntinlupa City, Gordon said that education should be a priority of every government, especially of a developing nation, to enable and ennoble the people.

"Poverty is an absence of choice. If people are not educated, they have limited choices in life. That is why education must be number one," the Bagumbayan-Volunteers for a New Philippines party standard-bearer said.

"I would be an Education President. Teachers would be number one for me because they are the ones who mold the minds and guide the values of our children. They are with our children eight hours every day. Kapag nagtratrabaho sila nanay at tatay, ang mga guro ang nangangasiwa sa mga bata. We should take care of our teachers because they play an important role in the lives of our children," he added.

Gordon explained that what needs to be done is not only to increase the salary of teachers, but also to upgrade teaching competence through continuous training to be able to address the low proficiency level of students especially on Math, Science and English.

"Better teachers would pave the way for better and well-informed students. Continuing educational program for teachers is a must for our society today," he stressed.

Gordon has long been advocating for the upgrading of standards of the country's education system. He has a bill pending in Congress, called the Health and Education Acceleration Program (HEAP), which aims to spearhead the rehabilitation and improvement of the education and health systems.

His Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) has been largely allocated for construction of public elementary school buildings around the country together with the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Inc.

In 2007, after his visit to Sulu, Gordon reported to the President the need to hold the Professional Regulations Commission (PRC) licensure examinations in Sulu because many teachers have not been properly qualified for government service. In the past, education graduates in the province had to travel to Zamboanga City or other parts of the country to be able to take the exam, entailing more expenses on their part.

When he was Mayor of Olongapo, Gordon built schools in many parts of the province and also created the Regional Science High School III and the University of the Philippines Diliman Extension Program in Olongapo.

On surveys: It's the record of service that matters, the real survey is still on May 10, 2010.

2010-01-19T16:23:00.000-08:00

More than the surveys that appear left and right, it is the record of service that truly matters, Senator Richard Gordon, the Bagumbayan-Volunteers for a New Philippines Party standard-bearer, said.

Gordon, who was one of the presidential aspirants present at the Kilalanin Presidential Forum at the De La Salle-Zobel in Ayala Alabang, Muntinlupa City, said that the qualifications and track record of a candidate is what the electorate must look into, adding that the real survey is still on May 10.

"Kung maniniwala tayo sa mga surveys ngayon, eh di huwag na tayo mag-eleksyon, magpa-survey na lang tayo. Ang tunay na survey ay 'yung survey sa May 10, yung lahat bibilangin, hindi lamang 1,200 (respondents)," he said.

Gordon explained that when he ran for Senator in 2004, he was number 29 in the surveys, but after the elections, he placed number five.

He said that the people had chosen him based on what he has done--as mayor of Olongapo, founding chairman of Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority, and secretary of Tourism--and not on money, pedigree or popularity.

"Hindi ako umasa sa mga malalaking tao, walang malalaking grupo ang sumama sa akin, pero ni-respeto ng tao ang record ko. It is your record of service, your track record and not the surveys, that matters. Kaya mo ba yung trabaho? Bago ka ba umalis sa probinsiya mo naayos mo ba ang bayan mo?" Gordon stressed.

He added that surveys could even lead to "regulatory capture" because several rich or powerful individuals, who seek to protect their personal interests and maintain their place in the society, tend to support a candidate who they think has the biggest chance to win based on surveys.

"Minsan habang lalo kang tumataas sa survey, mas madaming malalaking tao ang nagbibigay sa 'yo ng pera, kaya malaki na ang utang na loob mo sa kanila ngayon. Kaya ang surveys madali yan. Kung may pera ka, magpa-survey ka. Magpalabas ka ng madaming advertisements, sikat ka. Pero ang talagang survey ay yung survey ng taongbayan sa May 10," said Gordon.

SSS Condonation Law to Benefit Delinquent Employers, Employees

2010-01-09T19:52:00.000-08:00

Senator Richard J. Gordon is optimistic that millions of employees of delinquent employees could now re-avail of their benefits from the Social Security System (SSS) with the enactment of the SSS condonation law.

Republic Act No. 9903, or the Social Security Condonation Act, would also help ease the burden from non-compliant companies that were facing economic difficulties.

"This law would redress aggrieved workers in the private sector whose contributions were religiously deducted from their monthly salaries but could not avail of loans and other benefits because their employers have not remitted their contributions," Gordon said.

"Since the law condones the penalties for delinquent SSS policy contributions, it would also offer reprieve to thousands of employers with financial woes and would ensure that their businesses continue so that they could provide employment for our people," he added.

The Social Security Condonation Act was signed into law Thursday by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo in the Calauan Housing Project in Barangay Dayap, Calauan, Laguna.

There are about 164,111 delinquent employers and P94-billion receivables from unpaid contributions to the SSS.

Under the law, delinquent employers may remit a down payment of at least 5 percent of the total contribution delinquency and pay the remaining balance in equal monthly installments within a period of 48 months or four years.

RA 9903 also provides that pending cases filed against the employer shall be withdrawn without prejudice to the refiling of the case in the event the employer fails to remit in full the required delinquent contributions.

"This is a one-time condonation program to make people more responsible, to pay more attention to their obligations to remit the premiums of their employees," Gordon said. (PNA)

PNA

Saturday, January 9th, 2010
http://www.voxbikol.com/bikolnews/3805/sss-condonation-law-benefit-delinquent-employers-employees

KILALANIN: A Presidential Forum(DLSU, Ayala Alabang)

2010-01-09T18:53:00.000-08:00

Gordon surprised the crowd with his witty response to political issues. Gordon, now chairman of the Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC), even suggested that surveys should be done by gathering all the achievements of all the candidates, putting them on walls but without their names on it. And from there, letting the public choose their preferred presidential candidate. “Let us forget about the election if we'll base everything on survey,” the former chairman of the Subic Free Port complex said. Gordon was also heavily applauded by the crowd when he declared that he will be an “education president” by putting the teachers’ welfare in his priority list to upgrade the country’s education program.

4 Presidential bets bare platforms
By Aris R. Ilagan, Manila Bulletin
January9, 2010, 6:33pm

Gordon dazzled the audience with his display of oratorical skills and in-depth understanding of the society’s ills—past and present, from Lapu-lapu to the sinking of MV Baleno—wowing the crowd several times. Gordon said “people must be part of the process of change… to know where they are heading.”

Presidential campaign gets more pointed
By Michael Lim Ubac
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 20:29:00 01/09/2010

LISTEN TO THE FORUM AT:
http://www.gmanews.tv/video/53577/kilalanin-forum-09-jan-2010

Volunteer Lawyers for MV Baleno victims

2010-01-05T16:46:00.000-08:00

To ensure that all victims of MV Baleno-9 legal concerns would be given proper attention, Senator Richard J. Gordon today said that he has already secured lawyers for them.

"May mga tumatawag sa akin na mga biktima, walang nag-aasikaso sa kanila. So I asked some friends to provide lawyers for them para may laban naman sila, at para makasiguro na at least makuha 'yung insurance, makuha 'yung ibabayad sa kanila," Gordon said in a media forum.

"I have talked to some lawyers who are willing to volunteer, some of them lawyers from Subic before. Nananawagan din ako sa ibang mga lawyers na gusto mag-volunteer, magsama-sama tayo para isang grupo lang ng lawyers ang hahawak," he added.

The senator noted that some of the victims are being offered small amounts, like in the case of Randy Peñaranda, brother of one of the victims, who was initially offered P10,000 as burial assistance. He sought the help of Gordon, who stressed that they should be given more than that. Peñaranda was then offered P200,000 but was asked to sign a quit claim.

"There should be no quit claim. I ask the help of media, the radio and TV stations, sabihin po sa mga tao na huwag pipirma ng quit claim kung hindi sapat talaga ang binayad sa kanila. Dapat ibigay sa inyo ang nararapat," the senator said.

"We are trying to provide the victims and their families the assistance we could offer them, because definitely they will have to file charges, not only criminal but also civil cases. I've already told the Red Cross to tell the victims and their families that we can provide legal assistance for them," Gordon added.

10 Principles for Success in 2010

2010-01-03T16:36:00.000-08:00

Asked how ordinary Filipinos can improve their lot in life, Sen. Dick Gordon, who has enjoyed a fruitful and accomplished life, shares his key principles for career and financial success:

Be ambitious. Umaasa tayo lagi sa tulong. Kahit anong hirap mo, you have to be ambitious. Being ambitious is not negative.

Have the right work ethic. Bawal ang tamad. Lalong bawal ang tanga. Manage by objective. Instead of a quick fix or instant gratification, practice delayed gratification. We should go for meritocracy. Hindi palakasan. Palakasan pa rin dito.

Learn a skill. Poverty is an absence of choice. That’s why you have to continue learning. You have to learn a skill. I never tell people “good luck.” I always tell them “good skill.” Be creative. Nasa Diyos ang awa, nasa tao ang gawa. God gave you skills. God will not help you if you don’t help yourself.

Work, save, invest, and prosper. You have to work. Address your needs but always save. Get into a business. Get life insurance or a personal accident insurance kung `yun lang ang kaya mo. We need a provident fund especially for our OFWs. We have 11 million Filipinos abroad. You put them and our people here in a provident fund, we can prosper ourselves. Combine GSIS and SSS funds and come up with a provident fund, just like what Singapore did. People have to learn to save something.

Help. Find extra time to help. Volunteer with the Red Cross. Kapag alam mong ginawa mo, bibiyaan ka. Helping others is a reward in itself.

Lead by example. The Philippines would improve if it elects a leader who can inspire, able to communicate by word and deed, provides a vision, extracts values, and displays integrity. Demand from your leaders. Ask for their qualifications. Look for their record.

Be independent. I had to fight big guys but I couldn’t tell my dad. He encouraged me to learn judo to protect myself. You have to learn to survive. You have to learn to stand your ground. Those guys who tried to bully me, I stood up to them.

Learn from your mistakes. I learn from my mistakes. I learn from other people’s mistakes. There’s only one thing I can never learn: to be overly materialistic. I don’t pay the media to cover me. I don’t pay for my press releases. If my being straightforward is a mistake, that’s a mistake I’ll keep on repeating.

Be assertive. We’re like makahiyas. We shouldn’t be. We shouldn’t be an adapting culture. We’re resilient but we don’t assert ourselves. We’re a happy people. That’s good psychology. We laugh at ourselves. We’re an accommodating culture. We shouldn’t be. We should live by the national anthem, by our oath.

Make fear your friend. During the Mt. Pinatubo eruption, I told myself we’re not going to allow ourselves to die here. I prayed, “If you’re going to take me, take me. Please though, don’t make me look bad as I lead.” You must make fear your friend.

MONEYSENSE MAGAZINE [SIDEBAR]

Sen. Richard Gordon’s 10 Principles for Success
By: Lynda C. Corpuz

BAGUMBAYAN Rizal Day Ad

2009-12-31T03:04:00.000-08:00

New Year's Message

2009-12-31T01:46:00.000-08:00

Each New Year is a symbol of hope and a herald for new beginnings. The year 2010 is especially significant for our nation because we are to elect the next leaders of our country, which will go down in history as the Philippines' first ever nationwide automated elections.
But while the new system gives us hope of finally having clean, honest, speedy and credible elections, there is a greater challenge ahead of us, that is, the careful and wise selection of our next leaders--from the President down to the local officials.

The fate of our nation lies in our own hands, in our own decisions, because we have the duty to elect the people who would lead us to the development and progress that our country truly deserves.

With the dawn of the New Year, let us initiate the process of transformation by changing the standards we use to choose the country's next leaders. Money, popularity and pedigree are not important. We must choose leaders who have proven track record, a record of leadership and integrity; leaders who are capable of walking us over walls to get us to a new and better Philippines, the Bagumbayan envisioned by our forefathers where everyone is enabled, ennobled and free.

I wish everyone a prosperous and safe New Year! Mabuhay ang Pilipinas! Mabuhay ang mamamayang Pilipino!

Rescue of 88 M/V Baleno passengers

2009-12-29T06:21:00.000-08:00

A survivor of a ferry that sunk in central Philippines is consoled by Philippine National Red Cross Chairman and Senator Gordon at Batangas port (photo source: www.reuters.com)

True to his promise of saving Filipino lives from disaster and poverty, Sen. Richard Gordon was first to arrive in Batangas City last Sunday to direct the Red Cross search and rescue for 88 passengers of the sunken MV Baleno 9.

Gordon, chairman of the Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC), arrived at the Batangas City port shortly after midnight on Sunday, less than three hours after MV Baleno sunk with 88 passengers onboard from Calapan City to Batangas City.

A few hours after its sinking, Gordon organized the PNRC's rescue mission with the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), rescuing 63 people from the mishap.

The PNRC has deployed four rubber boat teams to help in the search for 22 passengers still missing from the sinking of the ferry boat. The PNRC also has five ambulances at the Batangas Port where the search and rescue operations are based.

Gordon's speedy response to the sinking of MV Baleno is understandable, him being the chairman of PNRC and having access to its army of volunteers and equipment.

He is running for President under a platform of transforming the nation and saving the people not only from natural disasters, but also from hunger and poverty.

But regardless of whether he is running or not, Gordon has consistently delivered his work to save lives and turn adversity into opportunities. During the onslaught of "Ondoy" and "Pepeng" this year, Gordon led the PNRC in giving relief to thousands of families that lost their homes and displaced by floods.

Gordon helps rescue victims of sunken ship

By DAVID CAGAHASTIAN

December 29, 2009, 3:33pm

Manila Bulletin

http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/236107/gordon-helps-rescue-victims-sunken-ship

Small landowners to benefit from Free Patent Bill

2009-12-28T15:13:00.000-08:00

MANILA, Philippines—Congress has ratified the Free Patent bill that would allow 39 million Filipinos, mostly low and middle income individuals, to legally obtain title to the lands that they have possessed for at least 10 years, Senator Richard Gordon said in a statement.

Gordon, co-sponsor and author of Senate Bill 3429 (an Act Reforming the Administrative Titling Process), said that the measure, which was ratified by both chambers of Congress before the Christmas break, aims to ease the requirements and procedures in the titling of residential and commercial land.

“Many landowners, despite possession of their land, have only ‘rights’ or a tax declaration to their land due to the high cost, long delay, and inconvenient procedures of judicial titling,” he said.

Under the present Public Land Act, residential and commercial landholders can acquire title only through court, which requires hiring a lawyer, paying for a survey, securing testimonies from neighbors and clearances from the barangay (village), and filing a court petition, among others.

The senator explained that the current situation, where many land parcels remain untitled, make for bad economics, because landowners cannot secure loans on their property for business and home improvement; and bad policy, because without a title, landowners will not be secure in their possession, potentially becoming victims of illegally issued land titles by criminal syndicates.

Business organizations such as the Chamber of Thrift Banks (CTB) and the Makati Business Club (MBC) have been anticipating the enactment of the Free Patent Act, which is also expected to benefit the economy.

“This measure is expected to stimulate bank lending with better collateral, allowing homeowners access to credit in banking institutions,” said Pascual Garcia III, president of CTB, in his letter to Gordon.

Meanwhile, Alberto Lim, executive director of MBC, wrote in a newspaper column, “Titled land increases in value more steadily than untitled land and therefore increases the local government’s tax base. Aside from more business tax, there will also be more legitimate property transactions so the take from transfer fees, documentary stamps, and capital gains taxes will increase.”

With these benefits for both the government and the people, Gordon said that the President is expected to immediately sign the measure once it is transmitted to her office.

Congress OKs law on easier land-titling

Small owners to greatly benefit from it—Gordon

INQUIRER.net First Posted 14:10:00 12/28/2009

On MV Catalyn B and FV Nathalia collision

2009-12-26T20:17:00.000-08:00

Ferries form the backbone of mass transport in the archipelago nation of 92 million people. But bad weather, poor maintenance, overcrowding and lax enforcement of regulations have led to frequent disasters.

Sen. Richard Gordon, chair of the Senate blue ribbon committee, agreed that the seaworthiness of both vessels and the capabilities of their respective crew should be checked by maritime authorities.

“They should investigate the equipment and capability of the captains and the crew. Did they have enough communication facilities? Did they understand passage at sea? I can’t understand why they would hit one another,” he said.

“Are the captains qualified? Are the owners exercising due diligence?”

Gordon said an unfinished investigation of sea tragedies by the Senate blue ribbon committee would be expanded to include the latest collision.
“There are too many sinking [boats], too many accidents. We have to know what’s wrong,” he said.

“Every time Christmas comes, boats loaded with people sink. What’s wrong?”

Arroyo orders probe of sea collision

By TJ Burgonio
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 01:06:00 12/26/2009
http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20091226-243992/Arroyo-orders-probe-of-sea-collision

A Volunteer Forever

2009-12-17T18:10:00.000-08:00

For 47 years now and as the current chairman and CEO of the Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC), Sen. Dick Gordon and his able people are very active in the disaster rescue, relief, and rehabilitation efforts.

He was there in the July 16, 1990 killer quake that hit the Luzon provinces; the June 15, 1991 Mt. Pinatubo eruption, and typhoons, the latest being typhoons Ondoy and Pepeng last September.

He also negotiated (without ransom paid), for the release of 18 Filipino hostages from the Abu Sayyaf in in March 2000; the May 2001 Dos Palmas, Palawan kidnapping; the OFWs in Southern Lebanon caught in the Hezbollah-Israeli conflict in August 2006, and in March 2009, led a prayer rally and appealed for the successful release of International Red Cross volunteers abducted in Sulu.

“Dati, ang ganda ng Sulu. Ngayon, mas mahirap pa sa daga. Bakit, niyayakap ba natin ang mga Muslim? Takot kayo sa Muslim, eh. Ako lang ang tangang lumalapit sa kanila. Ako lang nakakakuha ng hostages from them ng walang bayad. Ngayon naghahanap ako ng koneksyon para mapalaya `yung pari (Fr. Michael Sinnott) at `yung anak ng kaklase ko na arkitekto. Kailangan bang mangyari ito? No. Pagawa mo ang mga infrastructure roon. Bakit hindi sila magrerebelde? Kung ako nakatira roon magrerebelde ako,” Sen. Gordon points out.

He also mobilized aid for the February 2004 Superferry fire; the 2006 Ultra stampede of the Wowowee anniversary show; the October 2007 Glorietta blast; the June 2008 MV Princess of the Stars tragedy, and provided psychosocial and first aid assistance and transported home the survivors of Superferry 9 tragedy last June.

Sen. Gordon also appealed to the international communities for support to PNRC. He launched the Millenium Partner fund in February 2000 wherein corporate donations were pooled to sustain disaster relief and rehabilitation efforts. Currently, it already raised P27 million in funds. It was during his term as PNRC Chairman and CEO that, for the first time, the organization became an international donor when they gave $35,000 cash contribution and disaster experts to help in the relief and rehabilitation of tsunami-stricken areas in Indonesia, Thailand, and Sri Lanka.

In 2006, he launched the Project 143 I Love Red Cross on International Volunteers Day to prepare and train communities to be self-reliant and ready in the face of calamities and typhoons. Also, a total of 15,000 houses were repaired and built from 2004 to 2008 in

Albay, Aurora, Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, Isabela, Nueva Ecija, Laguna, Marinduque, Mindoro Oriental, Lanao del Norte, Southern Leyte, Quezon, Quirino, Sorsogon devastated by Guinsaugon landslide, typhoons Milenyo, Reming, Yoyong, Violeta, and Unding, and armed conflict in Mindanao.

During the 62nd anniversary of PNRC, Sen. Gordon distributed 62 ambulances and fire trucks to their chapters, in line with his dream of modernizing and strengthening PNRC’s rescue capability. He is also active in important discussions and conferences on disaster management and training, and climate change.

“Basta may disaster, naroon ako. Sinasama ko mga tao ko. I’ll stay in the Red Cross for as long as I want. I’m a volunteer, nobody can fire me unless I steal,” he says. He adds, “Even if I’m the President of the Philippines, I’ll still be in Red Cross. I’ll be a volunteer forever.”

By Lynda C. Corpuz
Moneysense Magazine
Photography by Carl Valentin

ON JUDGE REFUSAL TO HANDLE MAGUINDANAO MASSACRE Share

2009-12-16T18:53:00.000-08:00

It is not proper for the judges to complain because in the first place, it is their duty. What will happen to the judiciary if they will coerce the judges? These kind of people proliferate because our judges refuse to handle the case.

We can put additional security to our judges to make sure that justice is being served. The judges should not be afraid to carry out their duty. They should resign if they can't do their job.

We should fight the principle and the evil must not prevail. If we senators and congressmen have plenty of security, why not give our judges specially those who will handle the Maguindanao case.

BRUNEI FM WORLD
http://world.brunei.fm/2009/12/16/philippines-judge-refusal-to-handle-maguindanao-massacre-worries-senators/

The promise of Mindanao is now within reach

2009-12-15T16:12:00.000-08:00

The promise of Mindanao is now two steps closer to coming into fruition with the Senate's passage on third reading of the measure creating the Mindanao Economic Development Authority (MEDA), Senator Richard J. Gordon said today.

Gordon, a co-author of Senate Bill 3496 (MEDA Act of 2009), said that the MEDA would primarily carry out economic and social reforms in Mindanao to ensure the growth and development that the island deserves.

"Whenever I go to Mindanao I see the possibilities that are boundless not only in tourism, not only in agriculture, but also in industrial development. We have had a long, festering problem in Mindanao, particularly in the areas of Sulu and Basilan. Mindanao has got to be developed immediately if only to stop the war out there," he said.

On Monday, the senators passed the MEDA bill on third reading. Senators and Congressmen will iron out differences in their respective versions of the bill in a bicameral conference before it is forwarded to the Office of the President for signing into law. The President has certified the measure for immediate enactment.

Undersecretary Virgilio Leyretana, Sr., Chairman of the Mindanao Economic Development Council (MEDCo), said that the passage of the MEDA bill is a historic legacy by both Houses of Congress in terms of providing Mindanao a special strategic mechanism that is responsible and accountable for the socio-economic development of the island.

"It will accelerate the attainment of development and peace in Mindanao. It will likewise reinforce the national effort to consolidate the whole country into one strong nation, which can never be attained by exclusion of any religion, race or tribe," Leyretana said.

"In behalf of the officers of MEDCo, we express our sincerest gratitude to the senators and congressmen for the unanimous approval of the MEDA bill," he added. Gordon explained that the MEDA would be the implementing agency for Mindanao-specific inter-regional and Mindanao-wide programs and projects, including Official Development Assistance (ODA) projects. It would promote, coordinate, and facilitate the participation of all sectors towards the socio-economic development of Mindanao.

"I know that there are certain elements in Mindanao that will never be pacified, but there are more people who want to conquer the lower instincts in man to make sure that Filipinos, whether they be Muslims or Christians, are uplifted," Gordon said.

Funds for Filipino WWII vets' benefits

2009-12-15T16:08:00.000-08:00

The commitment of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) that it will secure the release of some arrears due to Filipino World War II (WWII) veterans was secured by Senator Richard J. Gordon.

Gordon, who was instrumental in the release of the Filipino WWII veterans' benefits from the United States (US) government, said that when the benefits of the veterans are not given, it creates a notion that the country is disrespectful of the sacrifices the Filipino warriors had done for the nation.

"I have known this before but I did not realize it was of that magnitude. We have not been paying our veterans their administrative pensions since 1994. It has now ballooned to P25,235,339,155," the senator stressed.

"No country can find its way clear in trying to get respect from other countries, let alone our own veterans, if it does not take care of the people who fought for the freedom of this country," he added.

Gordon explained that aside from the Old Age Retirement Pension, which amounts to P5,000 a month, Filipino WWII veterans are also entitled to additional benefits under Republic Act (RA) 7696 or the Total Administrative Disability.

RA 7696 has been effective since April 9, 1994. A Filipino World War II veteran, with or without a disability, upon reaching the age of 70 is deemed totally disabled and shall receive P1,700 plus P500 for the spouse and P500 for each unmarried minor child. This provision of the law has never been implemented due to budgetary constraints.

During the Senate's budget deliberations, DBM Secretary Rolando Andaya Jr. promised to find sources of funds to pay some of the amount in arrears and send Gordon a letter containing said promise which would secure the release of a portion of the pension in arrears.

"The amount of P1,700 may not be much for us, but to an 80-year-old sickly veteran, to add another P1,700 may be crucial to him for extra medicines," said Gordon, who authored RA 9499 that allowed Filipino veterans to continue receiving pensions and benefits from the Philippine government without rescinding similar benefits from the US government.

"I really find it very excruciating that this country cannot pay its veterans. That will be part of the debt of our grandchildren already. Any self-respecting country should really try and respect the war veterans who fought hard. We have to make an effort to at least take care of that historical aspect," he added.

Ready for Anything

2009-12-13T19:19:00.000-08:00

He has faced down natural and man-made disasters, political adversaries, kidnap-for-ransom rebels, and economic crises. Now Senator Richard J. Gordon is facing the biggest challenge of his life – running for President of the Philippines.

By Lynda C. Corpuz
Moneysense Magazine Cover Story

If there’s one thing the ferocious flood brought by typhoon Ondoy proved is we’re not ready. Our national government wasn’t ready. The local government units in the affected areas were overwhelmed. And we were caught flatfooted. In the midst of lost and confused government officials, a brief television interview with a familiar face during emergency and disaster rescue operations offered assurance that at least someone knows what he’s doing.

Sen. Richard “Dick” Gordon enumerated and displayed to the panning camera the manpower, equipment, and vehicles under the disposal of Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC), of which he is chairman and CEO. It wasn’t a political ploy as some critics snidely remarked – he has been a volunteer since he was 17, as his parents were also active in the Red Cross, and his mother founded the Blood Bank – just Dick Gordon once again to the rescue.

“Sino nauuna kapag may delubyo? Mas marami pa kaming rubber boat sa Red Cross kesa sa Philippine Navy. Ang navy natin, all coast, no guard. Sino unang tinatawagan nila? Ako. Bakit ako? Because I will care. No matter where you are, I will look for you and care for you,” Sen. Gordon impassionedly narrates.

Disaster preparedness is a must. Sen. Gordon says we shouldn’t be stupid not to know that we’re expecting at least 20 typhoons a year. Then he pulled out his whistle and demonstrated how to be saved when disaster strikes. “Pag-pito ng tatlong beses (then he whistles), whether you like it or not, evacuate ka na. Hindi na ako magpapadala ng rubber boat. Whether it’s an earthquake, fire, or typhoon, dapat handa ka. Alam mo kung saan ang pinakamalapit na evacuation center sa inyo, dapat may dala kang basic necessities mo. Kung bahain ang lugar, dapat magpagawa ka ng elevated na kalsada, na bahay. You should adapt to disasters,” Sen. Gordon stresses.

To disaster proof the Philippines that’s in the typhoon- and earthquake-belt, Sen. Gordon says we should have a culture of cleanliness – from clearing the drainages to relocating squatters. National management of agriculture is another, opting to have our agricultural lands in locations less hit by typhoons, like in most parts of Mindanao, or review the engineering involved in our agricultural bases, like Northern and Central Luzon.

No one questions his exemplary track record as a volunteer in disaster rescue operations (see sidebar “A Volunteer Forever”). No one also doubts him as an effective leader, crisis manager, and man of action.

Cleaning up Olongapo

Before becoming a senator, Sen. Gordon led his hometown, Olongapo City, where he served as mayor for 13 years. From the grand vision to the minute details, then Mayor Gordon introduced systems to steer away Olongapo from its image of “sin city” to “model city.”

Before color coding became a traffic rule in Metro Manila, Mayor Gordon had color-coded jeepneys, plying specific routes within the city. The drivers sported uniforms, bearing their names and contact details – a rule ensuring that in an untoward incident, passengers would know their driver’s name and where to find him. “Ang driver hindi na siya mahihingan ng pulis, kasi dati colorum siya. Sabi namin, lahat ng jeepney at tricycle may route-bearing capacity. I did this without a law. I had to motivate people [to agree with me],” he cites.

While his initiative was initially met with protest, then Mayor Gordon proved that the traffic system was beneficial. Regularizing the licensed jeepneys and tricycles per route ensured a steady income for the drivers and operators. If the driver overcharges, the passenger could look after the driver’s record filed at the city hall – with the latter’s photo and contact details. “The jeepney could no longer be used for crime. The license could no longer be used for corruption. Locals and tourists knew [already] which colored jeepney to ride [depending on their destination],” Sen. Gordon says over the benefits of his instituted system.

And his becoming a mayor with his own brand of leadership and management style was something he learned from his father, James L. Gordon – who chose to become a Filipino, and hailed as the founding father of Olongapo as its first elected municipal mayor. “My father’s assassin (assassinated on February 20, 1967) rode a jeep, got off, and rode a tricycle and escaped. Mabuti na lang may nakakita kung saan huminto `yung tricycle. Ngayon, hindi na makapupunta `yung tricycle sa kung saan hindi niya dapat puntahan. Mahuhuli siya. That’s how I learned to do it. I also learned it from the color-coded, route signages of trains in Japan,” he shares.

“The Americans, who a number of them got robbed, thanked me for the system. The curfew was lifted and the people of Olongapo were thankful,” Sen. Gordon shares the inspiration behind the orderly traffic system in his bailiwick. He also instituted system among hawkers, wearing uniforms and I.D. and cleaning the area where they’re posted. He also purchased second-hand trucks to ensure timely garbage collection and proper disposal, collected by uniformed “sanitary technicians.” He also spearheaded public markets’ expansion, community organizations, among other development programs. “I came from a town where my father was assassinated. Where there were robbers and troubles abound. Na-organize ko lahat. Naayos ko lahat `yun,” he prides.

Building the “second city”

His leadership and management style was also met initially with resistance. He can be very demanding and brutally frank, and most Filipinos, being generally non-confrontational, get taken aback. But Sen. Richard “Dick” Gordon says if he doesn’t call your attention over a misdoing – “hindi ka na niya mahal `pag ganoon.”

He speaks plainly and doesn’t mince words. Basically with him, what you see is what you get. “Kung baga, kailangan natin gawin ito. You have to earn my respect. And I won’t let you forget it. Kapag kinagagalitan kita, mahal pa kita. `Pag hindi na kita kinakausap, wala ka na sa akin,” Sen. Gordon explains.

But the volunteers who Sen. Gordon mobilized to help rebuild Olongapo and Subic after the U.S. bases left in 1992 didn’t see him as abrasive. They only saw a passionate man who made Subic Bay as proof of economic progress.

Sen. Gordon asserted that he was helping Olongapo people to have a better picture of themselves. “I’m drawing a picture of who you are. You must be this way. You must think of yourself as somebody honorable and with dignity. My slogan, ‘Aim High Olongapo’ was realized. Bawal ang tamad sa Olongapo. Lalong bawal ang tanga sa Olongapo, alam nila `yan. I met with them. Hindi ko sila bine-baby. I told them, ‘if this doesn’t work, you can sue me or you don’t vote for me the next time,’” Sen. Gordon stresses. Talk about tough love.

“I helped built self-help, self-reliance among them. Bawal din ang palaasa sa gobyerno. We were taking care of ourselves. In my first speech, I told them that we would build a ‘second city,’ and that was Subic. [I envisioned] that since the bases would someday be gone and that happened. Twelve years later, I built that ‘second city,’ – Subic Bay,” Sen. Gordon introduces his ascent to become the founding chairman and administrator of Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), a post he held from 1992 to 1998.

Sen. Gordon led a nationwide rally in September 1991 for the U.S. bases to be retained. He cites that the bill was filed in the Lower House by his wife, but it was not even discussed. That made Olongapo’s future in jeopardy as they were heavily relying on the U.S. naval base.

The cataclysmic eruption of Mt. Pinatubo in June 1991 dumped not only wet ash on Olongapo, but also caused damage to their livelihood, properties, and morale. Despite such, the Philippine Senate voted 12-11 to reject the bases’ extension. “Marami kaming pinagdaanan ng mga taga-Olongapo. Maski noong inalis ako ni Cory (Aquino, following a government reorganization), pinaglaban nila ako. Lagi kong sinasama ang tao. We made Olongapo a city of rights and duties. I was the first mayor in the country helping other mayors. Nasanay ang tao. You have to practice citizenship,” he stresses.

“We put the Subic Freeport idea in the bill – wala `yun doon. When Subic was turned over to us, giba ang Olongapo. Nilinis namin `yun. Binalik namin sa normal ang Olongapo. We went through natural disasters and government corruption and [some men’s] selfishness. Pag-alis ng bases, kinaya namin. We attracted foreign investors. We built infrastructure. We created 100,000 jobs. We made the impossible,” Sen. Gordon illustrates how he and the Olongapo people bonded together in time of crises.

The transformation of Subic Bay earned the admiration and commendation of world leaders like U.S. President Bill Clinton, U.K. Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, and Malaysian Prime Minister Dr. Mahathir Mohammad – along with the other leaders that attended the Asia Pacific Economic Conference held in Subic in 1996. “A slice of what they can be” is how Sen. Gordon sees the efforts he put in to make Olongapo and Subic Bay models to emulate.

WOW! Gordon

Sen. Gordon also has a knack for catchy slogans and is marketing savvy. Credit that partly to his first job as brand manager for Procter & Gamble. “That was an important job that could have given me a career in business. That was the best job in the world at that time. Mahirap makapasok doon. Sa klase namin, dalawa lang kaming nakapasok through our academic [record], leadership [potential], and personality. Walang lakaran. But I had to leave since my father was assassinated,” Sen. Gordon recalls.

That tragic event became the catalyst to his political career. Although he comes from a family of politicians (his mother, Amelia J. Gordon, is hailed as the first elected city mayor of Olongapo and the 2003 Pearl S. Buck Woman of the Year honoree), he didn’t set out to be a politician.

After his mother won the elections, Sen. Gordon entered the University of the Philippines-Diliman to take up Law. “There were three attempts on my father’s life, I couldn’t understand why. Then he was assassinated. I went to law school to know bakit hindi ma-solve-solve ang kaso ng father ko. Kung sino ang mastermind,” he asked then.

After elected as the No. 1 student councilor, former President Ferdinand Marcos asked Sen. Gordon to run as Student Council chairman. The events at that time were leading to the First Quarter Storm. He refused Marcos’ offer. “I told Marcos, ‘don’t call me again.’ He was my brod (brother) in U.P. Upsilon Sigma Phi. He asked me why I didn’t want to run. I said, ‘I’m running for the Constitutional Convention (ConCon in 1971),” Sen. Gordon cites the third event that led him to the mayorship of Olongapo City.

Running for the ConCon was a challenge for Sen. Gordon – his father was only mayor for three years; his mother didn’t want him to run, as she wanted him to finish Law, not to mention that they were not in speaking terms since he eloped and got married to Kate (the 1998 UNESCO Mayors for Peace Prize honoree in Asia, three-term Olongapo City Mayor, and Zambales Representative from 1987 to 1995).

Despite that, he pushed forward. “I said [to those asking why I was running considering my age and inexperience], ‘kung bibili kayo ng kalabaw, ano pipiliin ninyo, bata o matanda?’ Simple lang. Magaling ako magsalita, that’s why I went out and spoke to the public through the theaters owned by my mother and mother-in-law. We got three comedians to attract crowd. `Pag naparami na nila, saka ako pupunta at magsasalita. Hahabulin ko `yan from barrio to barrio to speak. I won, the No.1, and the youngest delegate to the ConCon,” Sen. Gordon prides of his first, major political achievement.

He says he ran for the ConCon because he wanted to change the country, and says his inspiration for this was Wenceslao Vinzons – the youngest delegate and signer of the 1935 Constitution. That was why he also joined Upsilon because of Vinzons, not because of Marcos or Ninoy (Aquino, Jr.), his fellow Upsilonians. “Like my father, Vinzons had a vision. Like Vinzons, I told myself, ‘I’ll be the youngest delegate to the ConCon. I’ll make my father proud of me,” Sen. Gordon cites, and adds that one of his most precious possessions is his picture of him, administering the Oath of Office to Diosdado Macapagal as president of ConCon. “Whenever I take my oath, I’m taking my oath to the youth of the land so they would have a better future,” Sen. Gordon cites.

He has certainly come a long way from being a wunderkind to a highly accomplished public servant. After his stint at the SBMA, unceremoniously kicked out by then President Joseph Estrada with whom he had a political rift, he came back as tourism secretary appointed in 2001 and served until 2004, before being elected as a senator. He enjoyed a high-profile and successful job as tourism secretary, having launched the highly successful WOW! Philippines campaign. He rebuilt Intramuros and made it a world-city of museums, with themed fiestas showcasing the products and specialties of the country. He didn’t only put back the Philippines in the tourism belt, but Sen. Gordon says he also created jobs in the hospitality and allied sectors.

“Do you hear [those things I did?] No, you don’t. Even if I say them, sasabihin, hindi mananalo `yan [Gordon] kasi wala siyang pera. That’s where their mistake lies. And their ignorance,” Sen. Gordon points out.

Running for President

His frustration over the press is understandable. He is already being counted out when he hasn’t even officially announced that he’s running. As of this writing, he has not officially declared his bid for the 2010 presidential race. Sen. Gordon says he keeps it as a “surprise” as his ace. “I don’t participate in surveys. SWS put my name in violation of my rights because I have my name. For this year, I never allowed to put my name in it. If it put in P321 million in four to five months; P100 million allotted for the surveys, I would top them. If I start advertising, I would rate. You’re right, I don’t rate even with my record – I don’t rate because I don’t fool the people. `Yung naipon kong kaunti, para sa pamilya ko `yan, hindi para sa pulitika `yan,” Sen. Gordon stresses.

He doesn’t kowtow to the masses, doesn’t pander to oligarchs, and doesn’t kiss butts. All he can offer is his record. He laments that candidates with nothing much to show in terms of performance are being hailed as the most winnable ones. He, on the other hand, has already done much, much more. “Nagawa ko na lahat `yan. Kung wala akong chance, kung wala akong pera, eh `di lalo na `yung mahihirap. Pupunta na lang sila abroad. It’s only the crooked politicians who are making money. Did I let my people leave Olongapo? I found a future for them.”

Sen. Gordon is also very specific as to what should be done for this country. He believes the key to transforming the Philippines is education. He envisions giving Filipino school children a very good teacher, feeding them, and providing access to good facilities. In fact, he already has a plan: generate a form of tax from text (SMS and MMS) messaging. “Stick to the vision. Set aside 10 centavos out of every text messages. And if there are two million text messages sent a day, that’s P73 billion a year. Right away, you can pay all the teachers. But build schools first. Create a corporation for a Health, Education, and Acceleration Program for this purpose. Also assign a doctor rotating around the schools so the kids can have access to health care,” Sen. Gordon explains.

Indeed, he is the man with the plan and a man of action. “You can demand from me,” he asserts. Yes, he banks on his record, and if he appears to have to remind people about it, Sen. Gordon only shows that he has got what it takes to lead this country. “I never run away from a fight. Never. What I’m offering is an experience of a lifetime,” he ends.

Photography by Carl Valentin

Hair and make-up styling by Chastine Isidro Fitcher (of Essensuals Toni&Guy)

Cover and editorial shoot and interview coordinated by Edlen Vanezza Bayaton

Swift passage of early voting bill pushed to allow advanced voting in Maguindanao

2009-12-11T06:53:00.000-08:00

The immediate passage of the early voting bill to pave way for advanced elections in areas of concern, particularly in Maguindanao was pushed by Senator Richard J. Gordon today.

Gordon, author of Senate Bill 2972 or the Early Voting in National Elections, said that holding advanced elections would allow the Commission on Elections (Comelec), police and military forces, and election watchdogs to concentrate their efforts in areas that need special attention, like in Maguindanao, which was placed under Martial Law after the massacre that killed 57 people.

"I agree wholeheartedly that we should move the date of elections in Maguindanao to an earlier date. I have filed a bill on early voting and the House of Representatives has filed its own version. With the help of our colleagues, we can fast track the passage of this measure," he said during the Senate's deliberation for the Comelec's budget.

"Since we are still meeting with the House on Monday, maybe the Senate President and the Speaker of the House can get together and make that our mission. I think we can finish that. It's really a very simple bill that would allow the Comelec to do that (early voting)," he added.

Members of the Senate, particularly Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile, Majority Floor Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri, and Minority Floor Leader Aquilino Pimentel Jr., endorsed on Friday the immediate passage of the bill.

Gordon, father of election modernization in the country and author of Republic Act (RA) 9369 or the Amended Automated Elections System Law, noted that there are 181 areas, including Maguindanao, tagged as consistent election hotspots in the country

"We have witnessed one of the worst election-related violent incidences in our history. The massacre of the Mangudadatus who were about to file their certificate of candidacy, as well as their supporters and journalists who went with them, is a crime of the worst kind," he said.

"Given this situation, we should permit early voting to allow our police and election authorities to secure our people from election-related violence," he added.

The senator also stressed that expanding voting period to more than one day would not only increase voter participation, but can also reduce the risk of overworked poll workers making mistakes, and in the scenario of automated elections, the risk of having broken automated election machines.

Rebellion charges deny Maguindanao massacre victims of justice

2009-12-11T06:51:00.000-08:00

Pursuing rebellion charges against the suspects in the Maguindanao massacre is an injustice to the victims and their families who have suffered much from the atrocious act, Senator Richard J. Gordon today stressed.

"May malaking posibilidad na hindi mabibigyan ng hustisya ang limampu't pitong (57) biktima ng pagpatay at maraming bilang ng illegal na armas kung hindi ito aabot sa husgado kapag hindi natin ipawawalang bisa ang proklamasyong nagdedeklara ng martial law," Gordon said.

"In declaring a rebellion, you are letting the suspects get away with their worst crimes. If we subscribe to the theory of rebellion, we are part of the crime because we are letting them get away with other heinous offenses. We were thrown out of focus by the declaration of martial law. Our focus must be on justice. Let us keep our focus on the crime of multiple murders," he added.

The senator explained that justice should be given to each and every victim by charging the suspects with every count of murder and illegal possession of firearm committed.

Gordon also said that if the suspects were mere rebels who only wanted to stir unrest and create public disorder, then there was no reason to hide the effects of their crime, and they would not have buried the bodies of the victims, their vehicles and the weapons they used.

"Are we to be cheap politicians and accept the theory that there was a rebellion? Can we look every Filipino in the eye and say that these murderers are mere rebels? That would mean that they are entitled to a lesser offense. They will not be charged for murder, nor for illegal possession of firearms because they may all be absorbed in the crime of rebellion," he stressed.

"Makapal ang mukha nating lahat dito kapag pinabayaan natin na makatakas ang mga pumatay sa mga nagdadalang-tao, sa mga mamamahayag, sa mga abogadong pinaaral ng kanilang mga magulang. Kung hahayaan natin ito, ipagdasal ninyo na huwag mangyari ang ganito sa inyo sapagkat baka pag nangyari iyon, wala ng tatayo para ipaglaban ang inyong karapatan," said Gordon.

Transcript of Senator Richard Gordon's statement at the Joint Session of Congress re absence of key gov't officials

2009-12-10T18:26:00.000-08:00

Today we make history. This is the first time in our country where a joint session of Congress has been called to review the factual basis of the declaration of Martial Law. This is not a surprise upon any public official in this country. The Constitution is clear that within 48 hours, Congress must be convened to be able to review that action.

I feel very, very disappointed and feel diminished as a senator of this country that the Secretary of National Defense, whom I saw last night, and the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces could not be here to be able to answer questions on the joint session of Congress.

To my mind, if I may be so bold, we are a co-equal branch of government and the Constitution provides that we must review. And therefore, it behooves the Executive that she sends the highest officials involved in the declaration of Martial Law, the administrators of Martial Law, to appear before the congressmen and the senators, the representatives of the people, para sumagot at magpaliwanag.

Lumalabas na sa hindi nila pagdalo dito na tila, una, binabalewala ang kahalagahan ng Kongreso, ng House of Representatives at ng Senate, sa isang napakaselan na bagay. Walang mas mataas pa na lalabas na issue sa ating panahon kundi itong pagtawag ng Martial Law, kaya dapat nandito sila.

Pangalawa, lumalabas na mahina ang kaso ng gobyerno. Sapagkat kung nakakaalis ang Secretary of National Defense, kung nakakaalis ang Armed Forces Chief of Staff, ibig sabihin hindi napakaselan ng deklarasyon ng Martial Law at lumalabas na mukhang everything is under control.

For those reasons and others, this is the first time, this is the first exercise, first impression to the whole country where the Constitution is now being utilized, pinapakita kung paano babalansehin ng lehislatura ang executive at ito ay dadaan sa Korte Suprema.

Sa pagdeklara ng Martial Law tatlo ang kasama--the Executive who declares it; the Legislature that reviews it; and finally, the arbiter (Supreme Court) of whether there was a valid exercise of the declaration of Martial Law.

Kaya kailangan hindi dapat minamaliit ang okasyon na ito sapagkat lahat ng Congressman, lahat ng Senador ay nandito. Kaya wala akong nakikitang valid reason na sila ay aalis. Pwede silang magpadala ng representative sa MILF Conference, pwede silang magpadala ng representative sa China, pero sa bagay involving the rights of the people, kaya nilagay yan sa Saligang Batas, kaya sinabing kasama ang mga representatives, mga senador, kaya kasama ang Korte Suprema dahil ito ay napakaselan sapagkat maaabuso ang karapatang pantao.

Ang rason na yan ay sinasabi ko in order to say that I find it extremely disappointing, I am dismayed, and I am sure all of us here are dismayed, na parang binabalewala at lumalabas sa akin na mahina ang rason kung bakit dapat ipagpatuloy ang Martial Law sapagkat kaya pala nilang umalis at pwede na talagang i-lift ang Martial Law.

‘Should we declare martial law in Agusan too?’

2009-12-10T17:27:00.000-08:00

Faced with another hostage crisis this time in Agusan Del Sur, will the government also resort to martial rule to quell criminals?

This question was posed Thursday by Senator Richard Gordon during the joint session of Congress deliberating President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s Proclamation 1959 that placed under martial law the province of Maguindanao.

At least 57 people were massacred on November 23 by armed men believed to be supporters of the Ampatuan clan.

On Thursday, police have confirmed that at least 65 people, mostly children and teachers, were taken hostage by an armed group in Sitio Maitum, Barangay San Martin in Prosperidad town.

Authorities were to serve an arrest warrant for multiple murder against the group’s leader when the hostage-taking occurred, police have said.

“There were about 100 hostages in Agusan, should we declare martial law there?” Gordon asked the panel of resource persons composed of Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita, Justice Secretary Agnes Devanadera, Defense Secretary Norberto Gonzales, Interior Secretary Ronaldo Puno, Philippine National Police chief Jesus Versoza and Armed Forces of the Philippines chief of staff Victor Ibrado.

Gordon stressed that prior to the declaration on December 4, AFP spokesman Romeo Brawner made a statement that there was no need for the province to be placed under martial rule.

Ermita said Brawner was not privy to the meetings of higher authorities, “therefore he is not is a position to say that martial law will be declared.”

Gordon: ‘Should we declare martial law in Agusan too?’
By Lira Dalangin-Fernandez
INQUIRER.net
First Posted 19:39:00 12/10/2009

Rebellion charges would allow suspects to get away with the crime.

2009-12-10T17:24:00.000-08:00

Sen. Richard Gordon expressed concern that the imposition of martial law in the province has taken public attention away from the massacre of 57 civilians.

Gordon said the filing of rebellion charges would allow the suspects to get away with the crime.

“If we subscribe to the theory of rebellion, we are part of the crime because we are letting them get away with other heinous offenses,” he told Devanadera.

Gordon pointed out rebellion constitutes only one crime which is punishable by one life imprisonment as against 57 counts of murder that carries 57 life sentences.

Gordon shared other lawmakers’ concern that charging the Ampatuans with rebellion might muddle the murder charges because rebellion is a political and not a criminal offense.

Ermita: Martial law proclaimed without actual rebellion
By Jess Diaz (The Philippine Star) Updated December 11, 2009 12:00 AM

Joint Session - No show of Gonzales, Ibrado a disappointement

2009-12-10T17:18:00.000-08:00

Senator Richard Gordon assailed no-shows on the part of Defense Secretary Norberto Gonzales and AFP chief of staff Gen. Victor Ibrado, who were out of the country when the joint session started at exactly 4:10 p.m. yesterday.

"We make history today. First time for a joint session to review factual basis of martial law. This is not a surprise; Constitution is clear Congress must be convened. I feel very disappointed and diminished that Sec. of National Defense who I saw last night in a hotel, and the Chief of Staff will not be here. To my mind if I may be so bold, we are a co-equal branch and we must review, it behooves administrators of martial law to appear before representatives. Their non-appearance suggests government case is weak;..."

Joint session hears martial law report
By BEN R. ROSARIO
Manila Bulletin
December 10, 2009, 10:15am

Martial Law - 60 days to collect firearms

2009-12-10T17:14:00.000-08:00

Sen. Richard Gordon said martial law should have been declared immediately after the massacre but only in Maguindanao.

“Now that it has been declared, the President should formally report to Congress about the declaration,” Gordon said, adding the government should now take steps to collect illegal firearms and bring back peace and order in the province.

“They only have 60 days to do that,” Gordon said.

'Martial law a political solution'
By Reinir Padua
(The Philippine Star)
December 06, 2009 12:00 AM

Automation system is easier than operating a cellphone

2009-12-08T00:51:00.000-08:00

Automation detractors should stop making the people fear the automated election system that the Commission on Elections (Comelec) will use in the presidential elections scheduled for May next year said Senator Richard J. Gordon today.

Gordon, father of election modernization in the country and author of Republic Act (RA) 9369 or the Amended Automated Elections System Law, assured voters that operating the automated machines to be used is easier than operating a cellular phone.

"Let us not be manipulated into fearing the election machines by some people who are trying to stop us from modernizing our democracy and having a clean, honest and credible elections next year," he said in response to reports that with more than the majority of the people not having any knowledge about the new election system, the election would be screwed up which could lead to a no-election scenario.

"Millions of Filipinos are using cellular phones which are much more complicated. The election machines that will be used are easier to operate than a cellphone," he added.

Gordon is running for president under the Bagumbayan - Volunteers for a New Philippines. Former Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Bayani Fernando is his vice president.

They adopted the moniker, the "Transformers" for their partnership, a fusion of two performers who aim to transform the minds and hearts of the people to build character and create a better Philippines. The Bagumbayan standard-bearer pointed out that the Comelec, which is tasked to oversee elections, should be allowed to carry out their task first before making predictions of doom.

"The Comelec has a time-table that I am sure they are adhering to. They have a schedule for conducting a voters' education campaign. We should consider the timeframe of the survey," he said.

The poll body has assured that they are preparing for a massive voters' education campaign that will be launched this month. The campaign will include television and radio advertisements. Comelec officials will also embark on a nationwide road show to reach the grassroots. "Let us allow the Comelec personnel to do their job first. If they fail, then that is the time to persecute them," Gordon said.

Gordon-Bayani to promote unity, stability, transformation; prioritize education and health

2009-12-07T04:24:00.000-08:00

Senator Richard J. Gordon has disclosed that they will promote unity, stability and transformation with education and health as their priority should he and his running mate Bayani Fernando, former Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) chairman, win in the May 2010 presidential elections.

Gordon, speaking at ANC's Harapan held at the University of Sto. Tomas, stressed that education is needed to address poverty so that the country could move towards progress and development because poverty is an absence of choice.

"We must put education and health as number one sapagkat kung walang education nasa dilim ang Pilipino. Education should be number one. Kailangan ang mga teachers ma-retrain," he said when asked to bare his priority for his first 100 days in office should he and Fernando win.

"Kailangan mataasan ang sweldo ng mga teachers. kailangan ma-promote natin, katulad ng UST, ang Unity, Stability and Transformation," he added.

Gordon and Fernando are running under the Bagumbayan - Volunteers for a New Philippines Party. They adopted the moniker, the "Transformers" for their partnership, a fusion of two performers who aim to transform the minds and hearts of the people to build character and create a better Philippines.

The Bagumbayan standard-bearer also bared his intention to turn the whole island of Luzon into a hub for investment by decongesting Manila through the relocation of industries to other areas in Luzon, building more infrastructures and maximizing the utilization of the infrastructures that are already there such as the seaports, airports and the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEx).

He also intends to make Visayas the beach capital of the Philippines with tourism as its number one industry, while ensuring the development of aquaculture, agriculture and tourism in Mindanao in order to attain peace in the Southern island.

But Gordon underscored the importance of transforming the Filipino people's values and culture first before the country could start moving towards progress, which he and Fernando plans to achieve by leading by example beginning with their first 100 days in office.

"I have always said that what this country needs is not just a change of men, but a change in men. Baguhin po natin ang kalooban ng bawat Pilipino. We must be a sincerely changed country," he said.

"And for that kailangan mamuno ang liderato by example, from my family, to my political family, to my Cabinet, all must live simply but work harder," he added.

Blue Ribbon to investigate alleged sale of gov't firearms to private armies

2009-12-07T04:10:00.000-08:00

A Senate investigation to determine the source of the high-powered firearms that were unearthed near the compound of the Ampatuan clan in Shariff Aguak, Maguindanao will be conducted by Senator Richard J. Gordon.

"We would like to know where these firearms came from. The committee would look into allegations or speculations that government firearms are being sold or even given by the government to private armies," said Gordon, chairman of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee.

The committee will invite as resource persons officials of the Commission on Audit (COA), Department of National Defense (DND), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Philippine National Police (PNP).

Gordon noted that during the raids of Ampatuan estates conducted by the military and police personnel, high-powered firearms including anti-tank recoilless rifles, mortars, machine guns, rifles and pistols, and thousands of rounds of ammunition that are enough to arm one battalion were discovered.

The subject high-powered firearms contain the markings of DND and PNP. Some of these weapons were allegedly used in the Maguindanao massacre that killed at least 57 people civilians, last November 23.

"We will ask the COA to audit the DND and PNP to make sure that weapons and firearms purchased by our military and police departments are all accounted for," he said.

The senator also stressed that the government must intensify its efforts in gathering all loose firearms, not only in Maguindanao but also throughout the country to prevent incidences of violence such as the Maguindanao massacre. The PNP pegs the number of unlicensed firearms at 1.11 million units. The ARMM alone has the second highest number of unregistered firearms with over 114,000 units.

"The police officials in Maguindanao should have been instantly relieved after the PNP learned about the massacre," Gordon said.

"Now that Martial Law has been declared in Maguindanao, the President should formally report to Congress about the declaration. In the meantime, the government should now take real steps to collect all illegal firearms in the area and bring back peace and order in the province," he added.

Gordon-Bayani: 3Cs to gain First World status for RP

2009-12-04T18:18:00.000-08:00

With the vision to build a better Philippines, Senator Dick Gordon and former Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) chairman Bayani Fernando, candidates for President and Vice-President, said that change, commitment and continuity are the three important elements that would bring the country to a First World status.

Speaking from their experience as former local chief executives, the formidable duo of the Bagumbayan-Volunteers for a New Philippines party stressed that change is necessary for development and progress, but there must be commitment and continuity to achieve the goal of a genuinely transformed nation.

“Our aim is to make the country First World. But there’s got to be a gestation period before you achieve that. Japan took 19 years after the war to do so; Singapore got its independence in 1965, and now it beats many countries in Asia. That is because there is consistency of policy,” Gordon said in an interview over Magic 89.9 FM radio.

He added that a six-year term is not enough to implement all the programs necessary to be a First World nation, which is why he has a teammate that not only would help him do the serious and tough job of leading the country towards that goal, but would also continue the programs after his term.

“One of the things that we need to learn in our country is teamwork. I’m not going to use Bayani as a spare tire. When you have a vice-president, you have to be able to rely on him. It’s a partnership,” Gordon stressed.

“Bayani and I can do the job very well because I think he complements me and I try to complement him as far as I can. That is why Bayani and I said, after me, he takes over. That’s the whole point—continuity,” he added.

Fernando, for his part, said that having the same vision and principles got him and Gordon together.

“I am convinced that he (Gordon) can lead us to where our country should be. That is why he was able to convince me to be his vice-president. I have no doubt that we can be good partners. We can both promote and work well on the principles that got us together,” he said.

The tandem is famous for their track record of successfully transforming their respective turfs into model cities or areas—Gordon as mayor of Olongapo City and founding chairman of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority; and Fernando as local chief executive of Marikina City and chairman of the MMDA.

Leaders must look at the past to transform RP into a better country

2009-12-02T07:08:00.000-08:00

Honoring the nation's heroes, as they filed their certificates of candidacy for President and Vice-President under the Bagumbayan-Volunteers for a New Philippines Party, Senator Richard Gordon and former Metropolitan Manila Development Authority chairman Bayani Fernando, respectively on Tuesday visited the Bagumbayan (Rizal Park)in Manila.

"We pay tribute to our heroes because we give importance to our history. We must look at our past with pride and honor so that we can move forward to the future with hope and confidence," Gordon said.

"We honored our national heroes in Bagumbayan, the very land fertilized by their blood, to make their dream of a new country a reality. Rizal never saw it but he meant for us to see it and to build it-a new country that is enabled, ennobled and free. And if it is to be, it is up to us," he added.

The senator explained that the Bagumbayan Party is a group of individuals united by a common vision for the nation, inspired by the courage and bravery of Lapu-Lapu and the ideals and wisdom of Jose Rizal, and empowered by the spirit of volunteerism.

Gordon and Fernando offered wreaths at the monuments of Lapu-Lapu and Rizal, and then marched to the office of the Commission on Elections, passing through the walls of Intramuros to symbolize their challenge to the Filipino people: "to emulate the courage of Lapu-Lapu and the wisdom of Rizal so that we can break the walls of apathy and cynicism in our minds that were built by our colonial past; so that we can move forward and build a better Philippines."

The Bagumbayan Party standard bearer and his running mate are both famous for the successful transformation of their communities into model cities. The tandem boasts of a common vision, competence, political will, and track record which prove that they have already broken the walls in their minds.

Gordon was a Mayor of Olongapo City, which he transformed from a sin city into a model city; Founding Chairman and Administrator of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), leading an army of volunteers to create a boomtown after the bases left; Secretary of Tourism, where he developed the "WOW Philippines" campaign; Chairman of the Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC), where he led rescue, relief, and rehabilitation efforts; and Senator, where he authored the Amended Automated Elections System Law and the Tourism Act of 2009, among others.

Fernando, a professional Mechanical Engineer, is a former Secretary of the Department of Public Works and Highways. He was also a three-term City Mayor of Marikina, transforming the former municipality into one of the best-managed cities and a paradigm of responsive and effective governance. As MMDA Chairman, he introduced programs and projects that dramatically changed Metro Manila into a livable metropolis.

Gordon announces presidential bid, BF as running mate for 2010 polls

2009-12-02T07:07:00.000-08:00

With a vision to effect genuine change for the nation, Senator Richard Gordon and former Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) chairman Bayani Fernando formalized today their bid to run for the country's top two positions.

Gordon announced that he will run for President under the Bagumbayan-Volunteers for a New Philippines (VNP) party. Fernando is his running mate.

"The time has come for action and results! This is a partnership of proven change, transformers of hearts and minds, builders of character and communities for a better Philippines. The future of our country is in our hands. Together, we can build a BAGUMBAYAN," he said.

Gordon and Fernando filed today their certificates of candidacy at the Commission on Elections office after a wreath-laying ceremony at the monuments of Lapu-Lapu and Jose Rizal, the inspirations of the Bagumbayan-VNP party, at Bagumbayan (Rizal Park) in Manila.

In making his important announcement, Gordon stressed that the electorate should look into the track record of the candidates and study what they are consistently doing in their communities that make a difference in the lives of the people.

"Our country needs a leader and not just a political figure. We need leaders with vision, competence and track record. We need leaders who know not only what the country needs, but also what should be prioritized among those needs and how each necessity should be addressed," he said.

Gordon was a Mayor of Olongapo City and Founding Chairman of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA). He turned Olongapo from a sin city into a model city and transformed the Subic naval base into a progressive Freeport.

As Secretary of Tourism, he rejuvenated the country's tourism industry with his "WOW Philippines!" campaign; and as chairman of the Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC), he made possible the organization's modernization.

As Senator, Gordon introduced measures that the country needs such as the Amended Automated Elections System Law, the Veterans Equity law, and the Tourism Act of 2009, among others.

On the other hand, Fernando, a three-term City Mayor of Marikina, transformed the former municipality into one of the best-managed cities and a paradigm of responsive and effective governance. During his incumbency, Marikina City was accorded 55 citations and distinctions

As MMDA Chairman, he introduced programs and projects that dramatically changed Metro Manila into a livable metropolis.

PROBE PROFILES 2010 Presidentiables

2009-11-26T15:12:00.000-08:00

Nakilala sa matagal na na panunungkulan bilang Mayor ng Olongapo at SBMA Chairman, napaunlad daw ni Gordon ang mga sinakupan dahil sa striktong pamamahala at disiplina. Uubra kaya sa bansa ang istilo ng pamamahala ni Gordon? Ating suriin ang plataporma si Senator Richard "Dick" Gordon.

PART 1:
http://beta.probetv.com/index.php?option=com_probetv&view=video&layout=program&vi=1541&Itemid=8

PART 2:

http://beta.probetv.com/index.php?option=com_probetv&view=video&layout=program&id=0&Itemid=8&vi=1540

PART 3:

http://beta.probetv.com/index.php?option=com_probetv&view=video&layout=program&id=0&Itemid=8&vi=1539

PART 4:

http://beta.probetv.com/index.php?option=com_probetv&view=video&layout=program&id=0&Itemid=8&vi=1538

Firm and Fair judgment on NBN-ZTE report

2009-11-11T15:34:00.000-08:00

With the findings and recommendations contained in the committee report on the botched National Broadband Network-ZTE project, Senator Richard J. Gordon has once again exemplified firm and fair judgment.

In releasing the report of the Senate blue ribbon committee, which he chairs, Gordon stressed that no one is above the law and that all public officials involved in the anomalous deal must be held accountable for their actions.

"Everyone in this story stands accountable to the Filipino nation. The Senate blue ribbon committee has issued a report that is based on the testimonials and other pieces of evidence presented during the 13 Senate hearings. We have a report that we believe is firm and fair," Gordon said.

The 127-page report contains findings of the committee that the Ombudsman is wrong in dismissing the case against the President on the mere pretext of presidential immunity from suit.

It also recommended the filing of appropriate charges against First Gentleman Jose Miguel Arroyo; former Commission on Elections chairman Benjamin Abalos; former Speaker Jose De Venecia Jr., and his son Jose "Joey" De Venecia III; Secretary Leandro Mendoza, Asst. Sec. Lorenzo Formoso and Asst. Sec. Elmer Soneja of the Department of Transportation and Communications; Engineer Rodolfo Noel Lozada; former National Economic and Development Authority Sec. Romulo Neri; Sec. Lito Atienza; and former Deputy Executive Sec. Huberto Gaite.

"It is our duty to find out the accountability of those involved in this anomaly. The appropriate charges must be filed against those found liable, but if a person is not the most guilty, he may become a state witness," the senator said.

Gordon said the Senate blue ribbon committee and its staff ensured a firm and fair report on the NBN-ZTE deal, like how they did with the report on the P728-million fertilizer fund scam, wherein the committee also recommended the filing of charges against all those implicated, led by former Agriculture Sec. Jocelyn Bolante.

"We need to show that the rule of law governs our country and that the government is subject to law. Since public office is a public trust, government officials must, at all times, be accountable to the people," he said.

Even before he headed the blue ribbon committee, Gordon has already showed a no-nonsense approach to fight corruption through his "firm but fair, serious and sincere" way of conducting Senate investigations.

In 2006, as chairman of Senate committee on government corporations and public enterprises, he led the inquiry into the alleged improprieties committed within the Philcomsat Group of Corporation by their respective boards of directors, purportedly with the consent and cooperation of the Presidential Commission on Good Government.

He also led the investigation on the June 2006 Nursing Licensure Examinations that was marred by widespread leakage of exam questions by review centers.

NBN-ZTE EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

2009-11-10T18:42:00.000-08:00

After 13 hearings and 4 technical working groups, the Blue Ribbon Committee came up with the following indisputable facts:

This is a story of how people in high places-the relatives of the most powerful men and women in government took advantage of their relationships, either with their parent or spouse, to cajole the Executive into entering a national broadband contract that would obtain something our country did not need, and which is manifestly disadvantageous to the Filipino people. It is about the war of the most powerful, most influential and most organized syndicates in government, some members of which are public officers, who were at each other’s throats because of an alleged double–cross. It is about the never-ending battle among the political elite for economic power, domination and control.

On the one hand, we have the former Comelec Chairman Benjamin S. Abalos who claims to have no less than the First Gentleman as his political sponsor. With him are Leo San Miguel, Ruben Reyes and General Quirino De La Torre. They are known as the Filipino group. They are the group that were lobbying for ZTE.

On the other hand, we have Mr. Jose De Venecia III, the son of then House Speaker Jose De Venecia, Jr. who had no less than former NEDA Director General Romulo Neri as well as Neri’s confidante, Engineer Rodolfo Noel “Jun” Lozada, as staunch supporters of his BOT scheme. Mr. Jose De Venecia III claims that he is a whistleblower. However, there were many times in this scandal that he could have blown the whistle, but did not. He only started complaining when he did not get his way. Mr. Jose De Venecia III and his group were pushing for Amsterdam Holdings to capture the national broadband contract.

In the middle of it all, is a President who was unable to control and discipline her own men as they fight over their kickbacks. She kept her silence in the midst of the corruption- acquiescing and condoning the deed. The facts pointing to her may not be total, but the stink is perceived to have reached her office.

Because the NBN-ZTE controversy had reached fever pitch, the Philippine government had to cancel the contract. Former Comelec Chairman Benjamin Abalos also resigned from his position in the Constitutional Commission.

The NBN-ZTE scandal remains to be one of the most acrimoniously debated issues in the Philippines. If people look at the opportunists in this scandal, they will discover that they are all scavengers and predators ready to feast on the carrions of their preys. And when they cannot get their rightful share of the booty, one of them squeals and they start pointing fingers at another.

Everyone in this story stands accountable to the Filipino nation. This deal would have been kept hidden if all of the characters were able to “moderate their greed” and if ever they lived up to the saying that there is “honor among thieves.” But, the situation got out of hand and the self-proclaimed loser, Mr. Jose De Venecia III, spilled the beans.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

H.E. GLORIA MACAPAGAL-ARROYO

• The President’s immunity from suit

The Ombudsman is wrong in merely dismissing the case against the President on the mere pretext of presidential immunity from suit.

It is the duty of the Ombudsman to investigate impeachable officers. No exemption is provided in Section 22. What the Office should have done was to investigate and make findings for transmittal to the House, if an impeachment would have been warranted, rather than a blanket statement or exculpation because of supposed immunity. It is not for the Ombudsman to make a ruling as to immunity, but for the House to decide what to do once it receives the transmittal. Neither was it for the Ombudsman to say that there is no more impeachment process to be had because of the one-year bar. It is for the House to make that ruling. Private persons such as the First Gentleman could have been covered in this provision, as well.

Further, the Constitution in Article VII, Section 5 provides that the President “preserve and defend its Constitution, execute its laws, do justice to every man.”
Also, Article VII, Section 17 of the Constitution provides that: “The President shall have control of all the executive departments, bureaus, and offices. He shall ensure that the laws be faithfully executed.”

Her acts in this case reveal that her performance of presidential duty has been wanting.

FORMER COMELEC CHAIRMAN BENJAMIN S. ABALOS

• Violation of Section 3 (a) and (h) of Republic Act 3019 otherwise known as ANTI-GRAFT AND CORRUPT PRACTICES ACT

• Violation of Article 212 of the Revised Penal Code otherwise known as Corruption of Pubic Officials.

MR. JOSE “JOEY” DE VENECIA III

• Violation of Section 5 of Republic Act No. 3019, otherwise known as the ANTI-GRAFT AND CORRUPT PRACTICES ACT.
Section 5. Prohibition on certain relatives.

FORMER SPEAKER JOSE DE VENECIA, JR.

• Violation of Section 5 of Republic Act 3019 otherwise known as ANTI-GRAFT AND CORRUPT PRACTICES ACT

• Violation of Republic Act No. 6713 Section 7 (d) otherwise known as Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees.

FIRST GENTLEMAN JOSE MIGUEL ARROYO

• Violation of Sections 4 (a) and 5 of Republic Act No. 3019, otherwise known as the ANTI-GRAFT AND CORRUPT PRACTICES ACT.

SECRETARY LEANDRO MENDOZA, ASSISTANT SECRETARY LORENZO FORMOSO AND ASSISTANT SECRETARY ELMER SONEJA

• Violation of Section 3 (h) of RA 3019 otherwise known as the ANTI-GRAFT AND CORRUPT PRACTICES ACT.

ENGINEER RODOLFO NOEL LOZADA

• Violation of Sections 3 (a) and (h) of RA 3019 otherwise known as the ANTI-GRAFT AND CORRUPT PRACTICES ACT.

• Violation of Civil Service Law, Book V Chapter 7 Section 54, Executive Order No. 292, Administrative Code of 1987.

FORMER NEDA SECRETARY ROMULO NERI

• Violation of Section 3 (a) and (h) of RA 3019 otherwise known as the ANTI-GRAFT AND CORRUPT PRACTICES ACT.

SECRETARY JOSE “LITO” ATIENZA, JR. AND FORMER DEPUTY EXECUTIVE SECRETARY HUBERTO GAITE

• Violation Article 150 of the Revised Penal Code

ZTE Corporation

An investigation must be done on the ZTE Corporation, as well, in order to determine its role in the whole mess. While we must, the government must, encourage the influx of foreign investors and corporations in order to contribute to employment, and wealth creation in the country, these corporations must be warned not to participate in illegal transactions. These companies must not contribute or encourage the corruption of public officers.

Make full use of infra in Luzon to develop provinces

2009-11-10T05:58:00.000-08:00

The government must immediately utilize the available infrastructures in the country to develop provinces into areas of investment and livelihood like Subic said Senator Richard J. Gordon.

"What would have happened to Subic if we had not thought about creating a Freeport there? We need a government that is proactive so that it can provide the people with more options for settlement and livelihood," Gordon said during the Kapihan sa Manila Hotel.

"The lakeside towns of Laguna are still flooded because of the typhoons. We see that we are going to have problems in Laguna for the next several years. We cannot wait for that so we need to relocate the people in areas where there are livelihood and employment opportunities," he added.

Gordon, the founding chairman and administrator of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA), explained that the government can start decongesting Manila and dispersing the industries to provinces with the infrastructures already available in Subic, Clark and Manila.

The senator has made such a proposal under Senate bill 143, which primarily aims to fully utilize the three airports already built between Subic, Clark and Manila, the three seaports in Subic, Manila and La Union, and the connecting highway and railway in Luzon.

He added that another bill he authored allows for the full development of the Laguna de Bay area. Senate bill 3428 would strengthen the policy-making and regulatory powers of the Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA), in order that it can realize the vision of a self-sufficient and highly dynamic integrated water resource management authority.

"All the great cities of the world are beside great bays. The water resources of Laguna Lake and its tributary rivers are used for irrigation, power generation, recreation, domestic water supply, and navigation, among others. It could easily become like Lake Geneva," Gordon said.

"We need to fully utilize the resources of our country. This is what we need today. The economy of the world is down right now. Before they get to develop themselves back into full gear, now is the time for us to prepare to have them come to the Philippines and invest in our areas," he added.

COMELEC urged to conduct massive voters' education campaign

2009-11-10T05:56:00.000-08:00

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has been urged to conduct an intensive nationwide voter's education campaign to ensure the success of automated polls in 2010
by Senator Richard J. Gordon.

Gordon, author of Republic Act (RA) 9369 or the amended Automated Elections System Law, pointed out that the country's first modern election is very important, its success hinges on the people being able to vote, and their votes counted.

"Automated elections will get the country out of the political rut that it has fallen into. It will bring back the people's voice in choosing the country's leaders," he said.

"Hence, ensuring that voters will know how to cast their votes in next year's political exercise is of great importance. This will prevent voters from being disenfranchised or their ballots being spoiled," he added.

During the Comelec's budget hearing in the Senate, officials of both the Comelec and winning contractor Smartmatic International - Total Information Management (TIM) have assured that they will conduct massive tri-media ad campaign to educate voters on the mechanics of the automated election.

The Comelec further disclosed that they are organizing a road show, to be conducted by election officers from all the different regional offices of the poll body, to complement the tri-media ad campaign.

The road show will be an on the ground, barangay level voters education program aimed reach voters who do not frequently watch television or listen to the radio.

Gordon, however, recommended that the Comelec should educate all Filipinos and not just the registered voters, which totaled 45 million as of July 2009.

"The voters' education campaign should reach all Filipinos. Do not limit yourselves to the registered voters only," he told Comelec officials.

Avoid disaster, spread development

2009-11-06T18:18:00.000-08:00

The building up areas in the greater Central Luzon region to decongest Metro Manila and reduce the impact of disasters in the metropolis was reiterated by Senator Richard J. Gordon(Ind).

To pave the way for the development of Central Luzon , Gordon authored Senate Bill 143 or the Luzon Global Corridor Act which aims to strengthen and expand the powers of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) and the Clark Development Corporation (CDC).

Expanding the powers of SBMA and CDC will allow them to develop other special economic zones in Luzon to optimize the utilization of the three airports in Subic, Clark and Manila ; two seaports in Subic and Manila and one connecting highway, the Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX).

"Metro Manila is overcrowded. The real disaster is the human disaster, because we do not know how to cope with the cycles of nature anymore. This will become even worse when the impact of climate change becomes stronger in the coming years," Gordon emphasized.

"One key part on solving this problem is to spread opportunities outside of Metro Manila to decongest the city while solving poverty in the provinces. When a person is able to stand on his or her own two feet, with an education and a job, then he or she will be empowered to deal with the crises of life. That's real development, that's real disaster prevention," he added.

In filing the measure, Gordon has taken the first step in making his vision of making Luzon an industrial and education hub through the optimum utilization of the infrastructures in the area.

"We need to put our development planning together with the engineering. Taxpayer's money will be better used if we develop these areas strategically and responsibly," he said.

The senator pointed out that giving incentives for leading universities and strategic industries like shipbuilding and prefab housing construction to move and set up operations there will generate more jobs, and will in turn bring in more investment from all the other supporting industries that will follow them there.

"More importantly, this will allow us to really plan the development of the area, by creating and enforcing proper zoning, requiring proper environmental standards, and building new cities with more foresight and planning," he stressed.