The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) led by Governor Nestor Espenilla, Jr. (center left), Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) led by Secretary Ramon Lopez (center right), Microfinance Council of the Philippines, Inc. (MCPI) led by Mr. Kamrul Tarafder (representing Chairman Jose Victor Lobrigo, left), and Alliance of Philippine Partners for Enterprise Development, Inc. (APPEND) led by Mr. Edgardo Garcia (right) recently entered into a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) to expand the financing ecosystem of Negosyo Centers. Through this multipartite partnership, financial services will become more accessible to the micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) served by Negosyo Centers across the country. The MOA Signing was held last September 17, 2018.
The MOA institutionalizes information sharing between the Negosyo Center network and microfinance institutions nationwide and covers the development of a financial education program for MSMEs. Illustrating the importance of collaborative effort to improve access to finance by underserved segments, the MOA is envisioned as a model and catalyst for more Negosyo Center partnerships with other financial services industry associations to improve access to finance by MSMEs.
Also in photo are (from left to right): BSP Deputy Governor Chuchi Fonacier, DTI Undersecretary Zenaida Cuison Maglaya, MCPI Executive Director Allan Robert Sicat, and APPEND President and CEO Virginia Juan.
Thursday, October 4, 2018
Friday, September 28, 2018
Residential Property Prices Rose by 4.8% in 2nd Quarter of 2018
Residential real estate prices rose by 4.8 percent year-on-year (YoY) in 2nd Quarter of 2018 as the Residential Real Estate Price Index (RREPI) increased to 117.2 from 111.8 for the same quarter a year ago. The prices of townhouses, condominium units, and single detached housing units grew YoY by 13.3 percent, 9.1 percent and 0.8 percent, respectively. Meanwhile, prices of duplex units (which account for only 0.36 percent of total new housing units reported) has declined by 4.4 percent YoY. Quarter-on-quarter, the RREPI edged higher by 0.8 percent. The RREPI measures the average change in prices of various types of housing units comprising of single detached house, duplex, townhouse, and condominium unit based on data from housing loans granted by universal, commercial, and thrift banks.
The average residential property prices in both National Capital Region (NCR) and Areas Outside NCR (AONCR) has climbed by 5.1 percent and 4.1 percent compared to year-ago prices, respectively. In NCR, the growth in prices of condominium units and townhouses outweighed the decline in prices of single detached houses and duplexes. Meanwhile, all types of housing units in AONCR registered price increases.
For Q2 2018, about seven in ten (77.1 percent) residential real estate loans (RRELs) were for the acquisition of new housing units. By type of housing unit, 46.1 percent of residential property loans were for the purchase of condominium units, followed by single detached units (45.6 percent) and townhouses (7.8 percent). By area, majority of the RRELs granted in the NCR were for the purchase of condominium units, while RRELs granted in AONCR were for single detached houses. By region, NCR accounted for 45.2 percent of the total number of RRELs granted during the quarter, followed by AONCR - CALABARZON (27.9 percent), Central Luzon (6.9 percent), Central Visayas (5.9 percent), Western Visayas (5 percent), Davao Region (3.5 percent) and Northern Mindanao (1.7 percent). Together, the NCR and the six other regions accounted for 96.1 percent of total housing loans granted by banks.
The average residential property prices in both National Capital Region (NCR) and Areas Outside NCR (AONCR) has climbed by 5.1 percent and 4.1 percent compared to year-ago prices, respectively. In NCR, the growth in prices of condominium units and townhouses outweighed the decline in prices of single detached houses and duplexes. Meanwhile, all types of housing units in AONCR registered price increases.
For Q2 2018, about seven in ten (77.1 percent) residential real estate loans (RRELs) were for the acquisition of new housing units. By type of housing unit, 46.1 percent of residential property loans were for the purchase of condominium units, followed by single detached units (45.6 percent) and townhouses (7.8 percent). By area, majority of the RRELs granted in the NCR were for the purchase of condominium units, while RRELs granted in AONCR were for single detached houses. By region, NCR accounted for 45.2 percent of the total number of RRELs granted during the quarter, followed by AONCR - CALABARZON (27.9 percent), Central Luzon (6.9 percent), Central Visayas (5.9 percent), Western Visayas (5 percent), Davao Region (3.5 percent) and Northern Mindanao (1.7 percent). Together, the NCR and the six other regions accounted for 96.1 percent of total housing loans granted by banks.
Thursday, September 27, 2018
Monetary Board Increased Policy Interest Rate by 50 Basis Points
Today, the Monetary Board on its monetary policy meeting has decided to raise the interest rate on the BSP’s overnight reverse repurchase (RRP) facility by 50 basis points to 4.5 percent, effective tomorrow September 28, 2018. The interest rates on the overnight lending and deposit facilities were raised accordingly.
The Monetary Board recognized that a further tightening of monetary policy was warranted by persistent signs of sustained and broadening price pressures. Latest baseline forecasts have shifted higher for both 2018 and 2019, with risks to the outlook still leaning toward the upside. With supply-side forces expected to continue to drive inflation in the coming months, inflation expectations have remained elevated amid indications of second-round effects. Meanwhile, domestic demand conditions have generally held firm, even as the previous monetary policy responses continue to work their way through the economy.
The Monetary Board, therefore, decided to raise the BSP policy interest rate anew to further anchor inflation expectations and to safeguard the inflation target over the policy horizon. The Monetary Board believed that a tighter monetary policy stance will help steer inflation toward a target-consistent path over the medium term by reducing further risks to the inflation outlook, including those emanating from exchange rate volatility given the continued uncertainty in the external environment amid geopolitical tensions and the normalization of monetary policy in advanced economies.
At the same time, the Monetary Board emphasized the need for timely and appropriate non-monetary measures that will further mitigate the impact of supply-side factors on inflation.
The BSP reassures the public of its strong commitment to take all necessary policy actions to address the threat of high inflation and deliver on its primary mandate of price stability.
The Monetary Board recognized that a further tightening of monetary policy was warranted by persistent signs of sustained and broadening price pressures. Latest baseline forecasts have shifted higher for both 2018 and 2019, with risks to the outlook still leaning toward the upside. With supply-side forces expected to continue to drive inflation in the coming months, inflation expectations have remained elevated amid indications of second-round effects. Meanwhile, domestic demand conditions have generally held firm, even as the previous monetary policy responses continue to work their way through the economy.
The Monetary Board, therefore, decided to raise the BSP policy interest rate anew to further anchor inflation expectations and to safeguard the inflation target over the policy horizon. The Monetary Board believed that a tighter monetary policy stance will help steer inflation toward a target-consistent path over the medium term by reducing further risks to the inflation outlook, including those emanating from exchange rate volatility given the continued uncertainty in the external environment amid geopolitical tensions and the normalization of monetary policy in advanced economies.
At the same time, the Monetary Board emphasized the need for timely and appropriate non-monetary measures that will further mitigate the impact of supply-side factors on inflation.
The BSP reassures the public of its strong commitment to take all necessary policy actions to address the threat of high inflation and deliver on its primary mandate of price stability.
Mga etiketa:
BSP,
Inflation,
Monetary Board,
Overnight Reverse Repurchase
Wednesday, September 26, 2018
Nutriment Workshop: Diet Beats Diabetes (Ketogenic Plant Based Diet)
Holistic Integrative Care Center (HICC) is inviting everyone on their upcoming workshop this coming September 29,2018, 10:00-3:00pm featuring: KETOGENIC PLANT BASED DIET for 1.500 Pesos only. This will help people with Diabetes to reverse the effects of their illness with the use of Ketogenic Plant Based Diet.
INCLUSIVES:
FREE lunch
FREE manuals
FREE aprons
FREE take-home samplers
Onsite Kitchen utensils and ingredients
Hands-on workshop
For more details and reservations, you can contact them at the following numbers:
Ms Nez at 0915-8138204 or 0912-6006118
HICC hotlines: (02)744-5355
INCLUSIVES:
FREE lunch
FREE manuals
FREE aprons
FREE take-home samplers
Onsite Kitchen utensils and ingredients
Hands-on workshop
For more details and reservations, you can contact them at the following numbers:
Ms Nez at 0915-8138204 or 0912-6006118
HICC hotlines: (02)744-5355
Wednesday, September 12, 2018
The Philippine Tourism Department Awards Green Hotels and Resorts
The Department of Tourism (DOT), in partnership with Center for Appropriate Technology, a Austria-based research and development organization, has identified 27 hotels and resorts as awardees for this year's ANAHAW Philippine Sustainable Tourism Certification.
ANAHAW is the Philippine Sustainable Tourism Certification that was developed by the DOT and GRaT Center for Appropriate Technology through the Zero Carbon Resorts (ZCR) Project funded by the European Union (EU) under the Switch Asia Program. ZCR aims to reduce the carbon emission of hotels & resorts following the 3R principles - Reduce, Replace and Redesign. This project was started by the DOT's Office of Tourism Standards and Regulation in 2011 with a series of trainings and seminars on green technologies and focus group discussions with industry stakeholders.
Tourism Chief Bernadette Romulo-Puyat has recently challenged industry stakeholders to practice sustainable tourism and demanded for long-term adherence to responsible production and consumption of resources.
"In the DOT, we see the need to inspire, collaborate, educate and habitualize our efforts on this advocacy, no matter how daunting. By inspiring, we engage consumers to embrace the role as responsible tourists. By collaborating, we enjoin experts, partners and volunteers to advance our advocacy. By educating, we help people become informed about our sustainable tourism and by habitualizing, we create doable ways for consumers to get into the habit of practicing sustainable tourism," said DOT Undersecretary for Tourism Regulation, Coordination and Resource Generation Arturo Boncato, Jr. as he represented Puyat in the opening ceremonies.
Undersecretary Boncato likewise stressed the importance of focusing on the best interests of the environment, tourists, industry stakeholders, and host communities, and also the possible environmental, social, and economic impacts, in generating projects directed towards genuine sustainable tourism, which involves collective efforts.
Meanwhile, Enrico Strampelli, head of the Development Cooperation Delegation of the EU to the Philippines emphasized the role of the ANAHAW in improving overall efficiency of tourism establishments such that not only does the certification ignite profit increase, it also directs the Philippine tourism industry into a more sustainable future.
Hotels and resorts are equipped with best practices and techniques for sustainable development and ecotourism that will largely contribute to the country's green economy and will lead to a highly competitive, environmentally sound and socially responsible Philippines - as is the mandate of the DOT for the National Tourism Development Plan 2016-2022.
Advocating "Innovation, Environment, and Value", the ANAHAW Certification also equips accommodation establishments with the capacity to boost their brand image, gain competitive advantage, and reduce operational costs and boost revenues
Official accreditation from the DOT is mandatory before hotels and resorts could apply for the ANAHAW certification, which is categorized into five levels: Level 1 corresponds to 50 to 59% satisfaction of the applicable criteria and indicators, with savings reaching up to 29%; Level 2 scores between 60-69%, with savings up to 35%; and Level 3 scores between 70-79%, with savings up to 40%.
Meanwhile, Levels 4 and 5 score between 80-89% and 90-100%, respectively, with savings reaching up to 46-56%.
The certification's percentage breakdown considers environmental policy administration and management, electricity and energy services, building infrastructure and surrounding, water, waste, wastewater treatment and management, chemicals and detergent, fuel, environmental protection and cultural preservation.
Technical assessments on the ANAHAW applicants and awardees were done by ANAHAW experts, namely:
Other ANAHAW experts recognized for their significant contribution to the technical assessments include:
ANAHAW is the Philippine Sustainable Tourism Certification that was developed by the DOT and GRaT Center for Appropriate Technology through the Zero Carbon Resorts (ZCR) Project funded by the European Union (EU) under the Switch Asia Program. ZCR aims to reduce the carbon emission of hotels & resorts following the 3R principles - Reduce, Replace and Redesign. This project was started by the DOT's Office of Tourism Standards and Regulation in 2011 with a series of trainings and seminars on green technologies and focus group discussions with industry stakeholders.
Tourism Chief Bernadette Romulo-Puyat has recently challenged industry stakeholders to practice sustainable tourism and demanded for long-term adherence to responsible production and consumption of resources.
"In the DOT, we see the need to inspire, collaborate, educate and habitualize our efforts on this advocacy, no matter how daunting. By inspiring, we engage consumers to embrace the role as responsible tourists. By collaborating, we enjoin experts, partners and volunteers to advance our advocacy. By educating, we help people become informed about our sustainable tourism and by habitualizing, we create doable ways for consumers to get into the habit of practicing sustainable tourism," said DOT Undersecretary for Tourism Regulation, Coordination and Resource Generation Arturo Boncato, Jr. as he represented Puyat in the opening ceremonies.
Undersecretary Boncato likewise stressed the importance of focusing on the best interests of the environment, tourists, industry stakeholders, and host communities, and also the possible environmental, social, and economic impacts, in generating projects directed towards genuine sustainable tourism, which involves collective efforts.
Meanwhile, Enrico Strampelli, head of the Development Cooperation Delegation of the EU to the Philippines emphasized the role of the ANAHAW in improving overall efficiency of tourism establishments such that not only does the certification ignite profit increase, it also directs the Philippine tourism industry into a more sustainable future.
Hotels and resorts are equipped with best practices and techniques for sustainable development and ecotourism that will largely contribute to the country's green economy and will lead to a highly competitive, environmentally sound and socially responsible Philippines - as is the mandate of the DOT for the National Tourism Development Plan 2016-2022.
Advocating "Innovation, Environment, and Value", the ANAHAW Certification also equips accommodation establishments with the capacity to boost their brand image, gain competitive advantage, and reduce operational costs and boost revenues
Official accreditation from the DOT is mandatory before hotels and resorts could apply for the ANAHAW certification, which is categorized into five levels: Level 1 corresponds to 50 to 59% satisfaction of the applicable criteria and indicators, with savings reaching up to 29%; Level 2 scores between 60-69%, with savings up to 35%; and Level 3 scores between 70-79%, with savings up to 40%.
Meanwhile, Levels 4 and 5 score between 80-89% and 90-100%, respectively, with savings reaching up to 46-56%.
The certification's percentage breakdown considers environmental policy administration and management, electricity and energy services, building infrastructure and surrounding, water, waste, wastewater treatment and management, chemicals and detergent, fuel, environmental protection and cultural preservation.
Technical assessments on the ANAHAW applicants and awardees were done by ANAHAW experts, namely:
- Engr. Anna Liza Lao (Cavite)
- Engr. Ma. Theresa Banta (Metro Manila)
- Engr. Von Saulo Infante (Metro Manila)
- Engr. Emelita Catalo-Guerzon (Davao)
- Engr. May Alelin Gerona Pagal (Metro Manila)
Other ANAHAW experts recognized for their significant contribution to the technical assessments include:
- Engr. Diosa Marie Aguila (Batangas)
- Marissa Victoria Claustro (DOT)
- Engr. Conrado Ostia, Jr. (Metro Manila)
- Engr. Moses Mabute, Jr. (Metro Manila)
- Arch. Ma. Oliva Alvero.
Tuesday, September 11, 2018
Philippine SEC's Advisory About Their Company Registration System
Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) are experiencing technical challenges with their online Company Registration System (CRS) and they are implementing a transition measure to full automation. With this scenario, they are implementing the following interventions in order to address the registration requirements of corporations and partnerships:
1. For CRS applications submitted/ uploaded from initialization of CRS up to August 31, 2018 which are still pending, an e-mail message will be sent to you soon detailing what you should do to schedule an appointment with them for MANUAL PROCESSING of your applications.
2. For CRS applications submitted/ uploaded beginning September 1, 2018 onward, the same will continue to be processed online.
3. However, for those who have difficulty accessing/ using the CRS, kindly visit SEC's Head Office or any of their Extension Offices and Satellite Offices for assistance. They have set up FAST LANE KIOSKS manned by SEC personnel who will assist you in your application.
Also, to facilitate faster approval of your corporate or partnership registration, SEC is encouraging ALL prospective applicants to use the pre-formatted online CRS form instead of uploading your own forms.
For clarifications, you may call the following telephone numbers:
Direct lines - 818-5554; 818-5235; 818-0763
Trunk Line - 818-0921 local 279
1. For CRS applications submitted/ uploaded from initialization of CRS up to August 31, 2018 which are still pending, an e-mail message will be sent to you soon detailing what you should do to schedule an appointment with them for MANUAL PROCESSING of your applications.
2. For CRS applications submitted/ uploaded beginning September 1, 2018 onward, the same will continue to be processed online.
3. However, for those who have difficulty accessing/ using the CRS, kindly visit SEC's Head Office or any of their Extension Offices and Satellite Offices for assistance. They have set up FAST LANE KIOSKS manned by SEC personnel who will assist you in your application.
Also, to facilitate faster approval of your corporate or partnership registration, SEC is encouraging ALL prospective applicants to use the pre-formatted online CRS form instead of uploading your own forms.
For clarifications, you may call the following telephone numbers:
Direct lines - 818-5554; 818-5235; 818-0763
Trunk Line - 818-0921 local 279
Thursday, August 30, 2018
Top Endocrinologists of the Country Join Forces To Call On Public To Fight Diabetes
DiabetEASE Magazine’s advocacy event Sweet Escape held its second leg of tour this year last August 24 at the Activity Center of Starmall, Alabang to spread awareness about the epidemic.
The Philippines is among the countries with the highest diabetes prevalence. In fact, it has been considered as one of the ‘diabetes hotspots’ in the Western Pacific Region, ranking fifth in the number of diabetics.
When the Philippine population was only 65 million, there were already 3.9 million diabetic Filipinos. Now that the current population has risen up to 100 million, local experts estimate that the diabetes morbidity among Filipinos has also increased to more than 5 million.
While a cure for diabetes remains elusive to date, treatment, facilitated by healthy lifestyle, has been proven to have a significant effect in making a diabetes patient’s life comfortable.
Sweet Escape in Manila
Friendly Alliances and Media Expressions (FAME) Inc., publisher of DiabetEASE Magazine, recognizes the important role healthy lifestyle plays in the management of diabetes. That’s why five years ago, it has embarked on an activity that would change the way Filipino diabetics live—the Sweet Escape.
Sweet Escape is a yearly advocacy event which is geared towards promoting awareness on diabetes and encouraging patients to live an active and well-managed lifestyle even with diabetes. For five consecutive years, the event has paved the way for patients and their family members in Metro Manila to experience a whole day of fun-filled activities that do not only entertain but also educate.
This year, FAME Inc., aims to establish stronger bridges to reach more Filipinos dealing with diabetes.
This huge step is a new milestone reached for FAME Inc., and it had prepared an even wider range of anticipating activities just for its participants. It successfully launched its first leg in Mandaue City, Cebu last April. It’s Davao City leg is scheduled on the latter part of this year.
The Father of Philippine Endocrinology Dr. Augusto D. Litonjua talked about the state of diabetes prevalence in the Philippines.
He said that despite having a lot of medicines against diabetes, more and more people are still at risk of having the disease.
The endocrinologist added that it is high time to change the strategy of fighting the disease. “Instead of focusing on treatment, probably we should concentrate on the prevention,” he said.
As what he always says, one must keep in mind that diabetes main culprit are the three Ks—Katamaran (Laziness), Katakawan (Glutonny), and Katabaan (Obesity).
“Diabetes mellitus is now what we call as the epidemic of modern civilization. Be aware of what diabetes is, be empowered to know how to prevent it, and then together we can beat diabetes,” he said.
Also in the event was DiabetEASE Magazine’s editor-in-chief and endocrinologist Dr. Joy Arabelle Fontanilla, who delivered key points about the magazine’s advocacy as well as latest updates on diabetes management and prevention.
She clarified that it is not an alternative to consultation or to doctors or dietician as it only gives guidance in prevention and management of the disease.
Dr. Fontanilla also reminded the public to seek for consultation if there are occurring symptoms of the disease such as obesity, unhealthy lifestyle, and if they have relatives with diabetes.
Meanwhile, Dr. Aurora Macaballug, Board Member of the Philippine Society of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism discussed about the importance of physical fitness in the fight against diabetes.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO) about 31 percent of the global population aging 15 years old and up are inactive. In 2008, it was also reported that there were 3.2 Million deaths each year is associated with physical inactivity.
Dr. Macaballug said that in the Philippines, 1 out 5 is overweight while 3 out 10 are obese, which are the leading effects of lack of exercise.
“Physical inactivity is a global problem,” she said, adding that deciding to shift into a healthier lifestyle is the key to prevent impending diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and even cancer.
She said, “Exercise boosts HDL or “good” cholesterol and decreases the bad, which we call triglyceride. It also prevents stroke, metabolic syndrome, tyoe 2 diabetes, depression, arthritis and falls.”
Dr. Macaballug added that to lower the risks of these diseases, one must have at least 2.5 hours of moderate-intensity exercise.
Meanwhile, partners shared their insights on how to achieve a healthy lifestyle through their brands.
Hataw Galaw: Sayaw Sa Kalusugan
In line with its mission to promote healthy lifestyle to all, the Sweet Escape conducted its Hataw Galaw: Sayaw Sa Kalusugan, an intercollegiate urban dance competition geared towards encouraging not only elderly patients but also the youth to live an active lifestyle through physical activities such as dancing.
Sustained physical activity has been found to be one of the most effective ways to beat diabetes, and Sweet Escape believes that diabetes education should start at young people.
The urban dance competition gathered university and college students to showcase their talents while incorporating a health-themed dance routine.
Among the schools who competed in this year’s competition were: STI Ortigas-Cainta (Bagong Sibol Dance Troupe), AMA Makati (AMA Makati Dance Crew), ICCT Cainta ( Sibol Dance Crew), LYCEUM ALABANG ( Alta Dance Troupe), Polytechinic University of Philippines (Ace Prime Dancers), Bulacan State University (BulSU Hyper Dynamics), Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (PLM Iskolars Dance Incorporated), and Universidad de Manila (UDM E. Stars).
The AMA Makati (AMA Makati Dance Crew) emerged as the Grand Champion followed by 1st runner-up Polytechinic University of Philippines (Ace Prime Dancers) and the Bulacan State University (BulSU Hyper Dynamics) as 2nd-runner up.
Sweet Escape 2018 Manila-leg is in partnership with the Philippine Center for Diabetes Education Foundation Inc., Philippine Society of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, Axcess for Life, City Government of Muntinlupa and Starmall, Alabang.
The event is also supported by Accuchek, Hover of Corbridge, Banahaw Spring Purified Water, BSI Medicated Spray, Circulan, Lung Caire Plus (Dibdibang Depensa para sa Baga), C-Lium Fibre, FOGG, Coco Natura, Philippine Nutrifoods Corp., Glorious Blend, Sweet & Fit Stevia Natural Sweetener, Bonamine (Sadyang Kontra Biyahilo), Flanax, Paracetamol Tempra, Ambroxol HCI Tempracof, Vivalyte-Electrolyte Drink, Sleepwell (Sa Sleepwell, Solved ang Tulog Mo), Glucosure, Glucopro, and Pocari Sweat.
Tuesday, August 7, 2018
23rd Executives' Meeting of East Asia-Pacific Central Banks (EMEAP) Governors' Meeting Held in the Philippines
The 23rd Executives' Meeting of East Asia-Pacific Central Banks (EMEAP) Governors’ Meeting was attended by eleven EMEAP central banks and monetary authorities last August 4, 2018 in the Philippines. It was chaired by Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Nestor A. Espenilla, Jr..
The annual EMEAP Governors' Meeting provides a platform for the exchange of ideas on economic and financial developments in the region. The Governors discussed this year the increased interdependence in the global economy and the impact on the conduct of monetary policy. The Governors also deliberated on the lessons from the Global Financial Crisis. Throughout the discussions of these issues, the Governors reaffirmed the importance of EMEAP as a platform for effective sharing of experience and dialogue on policies.
During the meeting, the Governors were presented with the report of the 54th EMEAP Deputies’ Meeting held last May 24, 2018 in Singapore. They recognized the progress made on a range of EMEAP projects and activities focusing on banking supervision, financial markets, payments and settlements systems and information technology.
The Governors also discussed updates by the Monetary and Financial Stability Committee (MFSC) on its conduct of surveillance and research activities.
The 24th EMEAP Governors’ Meeting will be held next year.
The annual EMEAP Governors' Meeting provides a platform for the exchange of ideas on economic and financial developments in the region. The Governors discussed this year the increased interdependence in the global economy and the impact on the conduct of monetary policy. The Governors also deliberated on the lessons from the Global Financial Crisis. Throughout the discussions of these issues, the Governors reaffirmed the importance of EMEAP as a platform for effective sharing of experience and dialogue on policies.
During the meeting, the Governors were presented with the report of the 54th EMEAP Deputies’ Meeting held last May 24, 2018 in Singapore. They recognized the progress made on a range of EMEAP projects and activities focusing on banking supervision, financial markets, payments and settlements systems and information technology.
The Governors also discussed updates by the Monetary and Financial Stability Committee (MFSC) on its conduct of surveillance and research activities.
The 24th EMEAP Governors’ Meeting will be held next year.
Monday, June 25, 2018
BSP Advisory on Fictitious 10,000-Piso Banknote
Fake 10,000-Piso Banknote |
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) advises the public that the New Generation Currency (NGC) Banknote Series currently in circulation is comprised of six (6) denominations only, as follows: 1000-, 500-, 200-, 100-, 50- and 20-Piso banknotes. The BSP has not produced and has not issued a 10,000-Piso NGC banknote.
The forgery of Philippine banknotes as well as the use or possession of forged banknotes are punishable under the law.
We advise the public to report immediately to the nearest Police Station or National Bureau of Investigation the forgery of Philippine banknote and/or use or possession of forged banknote, for appropriate filing of criminal complaint against those persons involved.
The BSP enjoins the cooperation of the public in preserving the integrity of Philippine currency through sharing of verified and truthful information.
Wednesday, June 20, 2018
The Monetary Board Raises Policy Interest Rate by 25 Basis Points
At its meeting on monetary policy today, the Monetary Board decided to raise the interest rate on the BSP’s overnight reverse repurchase (RRP) facility by 25 basis points to 3.50 percent, effective tomorrow, 21 June 2018. The interest rates on the overnight lending and deposit facilities were likewise raised accordingly.
In deciding to raise the BSP’s policy interest rate anew, the Monetary Board noted that inflation expectations remained elevated for 2018 and that the risk of possible second-round effects from ongoing price pressures argued for follow-through monetary policy action. Although inflation expectations remain within the target range for 2019, elevated expectations for 2018 highlight the risk posed by sustained price pressures on future wage and price outcomes. Equally important, while latest baseline forecasts have shifted lower for 2018-2019, upside risks continue to dominate the inflation outlook, even as various measures of core inflation continue to rise. Moreover, the impact of international oil and commodity price movements on overall inflation is expected to be stronger given prevailing robust aggregate demand conditions.
Given these considerations, the Monetary Board believes that further policy action enables the BSP to reinforce its signal on safeguarding macroeconomic stability in an environment of rising commodity prices and ongoing normalization of monetary policy in advanced economies. The Monetary Board likewise reiterates its support for carefully coordinated efforts with other government agencies in implementing non-monetary measures to mitigate the impact of supply-side factors on inflation.
The Monetary Board also emphasized the BSP’s continued vigilance against developments, including excessive peso volatility, that could affect the outlook for inflation. The BSP is prepared to take further policy action as needed to achieve its price and financial stability objectives.
In deciding to raise the BSP’s policy interest rate anew, the Monetary Board noted that inflation expectations remained elevated for 2018 and that the risk of possible second-round effects from ongoing price pressures argued for follow-through monetary policy action. Although inflation expectations remain within the target range for 2019, elevated expectations for 2018 highlight the risk posed by sustained price pressures on future wage and price outcomes. Equally important, while latest baseline forecasts have shifted lower for 2018-2019, upside risks continue to dominate the inflation outlook, even as various measures of core inflation continue to rise. Moreover, the impact of international oil and commodity price movements on overall inflation is expected to be stronger given prevailing robust aggregate demand conditions.
Given these considerations, the Monetary Board believes that further policy action enables the BSP to reinforce its signal on safeguarding macroeconomic stability in an environment of rising commodity prices and ongoing normalization of monetary policy in advanced economies. The Monetary Board likewise reiterates its support for carefully coordinated efforts with other government agencies in implementing non-monetary measures to mitigate the impact of supply-side factors on inflation.
The Monetary Board also emphasized the BSP’s continued vigilance against developments, including excessive peso volatility, that could affect the outlook for inflation. The BSP is prepared to take further policy action as needed to achieve its price and financial stability objectives.
Friday, February 9, 2018
Monetary Board Maintains Its Policy Rate
|
Monday, January 29, 2018
Sen. Pres. Koko Pimentel Slams Cryptocurrency Scam Using His Name
Senate President Aquilino "Koko" Pimentel III hit a new swindling operation that uses his name and that of the Senate to attract victims.
Digital Currency Co., Ltd. (DCC) claimed that it has partnered with the Senate of the Philippines for the release of a virtual currency called the Philippine Global Coin (PGC), using pictures of the Senate chief to buttress its claims.
"There is no partnership between me and DCC, or the Senate and DCC. I met with these people as a matter of courtesy to visitors. I am shocked at their bold claims of an agreement between us using pictures that politicians normally have with visitors", said Pimentel.
The Senate leader explained that the Senate cannot issue currency, as it is the mandate of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. Pimentel is concerned that DCC might target OFWs, putting their hard-earned savings at risk.
He said, "I ask our OFWs to be wary of those who use the names of government officials and institutions in investment schemes. The government will never engage in activities that will profit off their sacrifices and hard work. Always check with the Philippine Embassy to verify individual claims of this nature."
Digital Currency Co., Ltd. (DCC) claimed that it has partnered with the Senate of the Philippines for the release of a virtual currency called the Philippine Global Coin (PGC), using pictures of the Senate chief to buttress its claims.
"There is no partnership between me and DCC, or the Senate and DCC. I met with these people as a matter of courtesy to visitors. I am shocked at their bold claims of an agreement between us using pictures that politicians normally have with visitors", said Pimentel.
The Senate leader explained that the Senate cannot issue currency, as it is the mandate of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. Pimentel is concerned that DCC might target OFWs, putting their hard-earned savings at risk.
He said, "I ask our OFWs to be wary of those who use the names of government officials and institutions in investment schemes. The government will never engage in activities that will profit off their sacrifices and hard work. Always check with the Philippine Embassy to verify individual claims of this nature."
Friday, January 5, 2018
SEC Advisory: ALIFELONG MARKETING AND SERVICES, INC.
ENFORCEMENT AND INVESTOR PROTECTION DEPARTMENT
SEC ADVISORY
The Commission has received information that individuals or group of persons representing ALIFELONG MARKETING AND SERVICES, INC. are enticing the public to invest in the said entity. ALIFELONG claims that it is an advertising/marketing company having clientele based abroad. It guarantees to its members significant gains from their One Thousand and Five Hundred Peso (P1,500) initial investment by buying “clicking accounts” or by simply obtaining referrals.Based on information gathered by the Enforcement and Investor Protection Department (EIPD), ALIFELONG requires its members to sign up through its website by clicking a sponsored link and purchasing an activation code worth One Thousand Five Hundred pesos (P1,500) using either bitcoin or by depositing money in certain bank accounts.
ALIFELONG claims its members may earn in 6 ways:
- Sign up Reward – The member will earn Three Hundred Pesos (P300) upon registration;
- Sponsoring an Affiliate Reward – The member will earn One Hundred Pesos (P100) every person he/she sponsors into the system. There are no limitations as to how many the member intends to sponsor;
- Youclick Programme – all members can opt-in to join this program and can earn Five Hundred Pesos (P500) daily or Two Thousand Five Hundred Pesos (P2,500) given that they have completed the click threshold of 5,000 clicks per day for 5 business days only. The activation code to join this program is One Thousand Five Hundred pesos (P1,500) which they can get from their upline. Upon reaching the maximum earnings of Two Thousand Five Hundred Pesos (P2,500) the youclick account will cease to function or be deactivated. The member may purchase another activation code, and he/she can do the clicking again to earn Two Thousand Five Hundred (P2,500) and up to 15 youclick account activation.
- Match Sales Reward – The member will earn P150 for every match in the binary structure. The maximum reward per account is Four Thousand Five Hundred Pesos (P4,500) equivalent to 30 matches per day.
- Sponsorship Level Reward – The member will earn Forty Pesos (P40) on his/her first level and Ten Pesos (P10) on the 2nd up to the 10th level of the binary structure.
- Leveling Bonus – The member will earn Four Hundred Pesos (P400) for every match in each level down to the 12th level of the binary structure.
The public is hereby warned that such investment schemes whether with the use of bitcoins or money are considered as securities subject to the regulatory authority of this Commission. The recruitment of investor members under the guise of sponsoring a person into the system is likewise considered a form of investment solicitation or a sale of securities. The offering or sale of securities to the public without a permit or license from the Commission is a violation of Section 8.1 of the Securities Regulation Code (SRC).
The public is hereby informed that ALIFELONG MARKETING AND SERVICES, INC., despite having been registered with the Commission as a corporation, is not authorized to solicit investments from the public as it has not secured the necessary license or permit from the Commission as required under Sections 8 and 12 of the Securities Regulation Code (SRC).
Those who act as salesman, brokers, dealers or agents of ALIFELONG MARKETING AND SERVICES, INC., in selling or convincing people to invest in the investment scheme being offered by ALIFELONG MARKETING AND SERVICES, INC. including solicitations or recruitment through the internet may likewise be prosecuted and held criminally liable under Section 28 of the Securities Regulation Code and penalized with a maximum fine of Five Million Pesos (P5,000,000.00) or penalty of twenty one (21) years imprisonment or both pursuant to Section 73 of the SRC.
Accordingly, those who invite or recruit other people to join or invest in this venture or offer contracts or securities to the public may be held liable or accordingly sanctioned or penalized in accordance with the Supreme Court decision in the case of SEC vs. Oudine Santos (G.R. No. 195542, March 19, 2014).
In view thereof, the public is hereby advised to exercise caution before investing in these kinds of activities and to take the necessary precaution in dealing with ALIFELONG MARKETING AND SERVICES, INC. or its representatives.
Should you have any information regarding the operation of the subject entity or have invested in the said entity, you can call the Enforcement and Investor Protection Department at telephone numbers 818-6047 or 818-6337.
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