CREBA’s housing vision gets support from industry icons

The long term vision of “A Home for Every Filipino” being advocated by the Chamber of Real Estate and Builders’ Associations Inc. (CREBA) gains ground and draws the support of government and industry icons.

CREBA National President, Noel Toti M. Cariño, Housing Committee Chair, Senator Joseph Victor G. Ejercito, Executive Vice President, Elsie D. Chua, and Academic Programs Chair, Avelina P. Acuña.

That support can be gleaned from the participation of lawmakers, key shelter agency heads, government officials, and industry experts in CREBA’s forthcoming national convention and housing expo and its sponsorship by leading firms in various sectors.

Senator JV Ejercito, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Housing, Urban Development, and Resettlements, leads government officials who will grace the convention as guest speakers.

According to CREBA National President Noel Toti M. Cariño, the 3-day CREBA National Convention and Housing Expo slated from September 26-28, 2023 at the SMX Mall of Asia and Conrad Hotel Manila is expected to draw the attendance of most of the major real estate industry players from all over the country as the group celebrates its 50th founding anniversary. CREBA is touted as the ‘oldest and largest’ umbrella advocacy group in the housing sector.

Elsie D. Chua, Executive Vice President and chair of the organizing committee said that the housing expo will open to the public starting September 26 featuring real estate developers, banks, government financial institutions, contractors, construction supplies manufacturers, online payment gateways, building technologies, furniture, home improvement tips and design inspirations.

It will also be dotted with free seminars on housing for OFWs, seafarers, teachers, employees, and uniformed personnel as well as CPD sessions and accreditation for real estate brokers and salespersons. Expo visitors can expect on-site freebies, promos, and discounts on training on international marketing and land titling. 

Day 1 of the convention will focus on unlocking investments and affordable home financing. Day 2 will cover topics and expert speakers on building the future through infrastructure innovations and green practices. The culminating day on September 28 will tackle sustainable solutions by navigating through global best practices and will feature a CEO forum with the heads of the country’s top developer corporations.

A major highlight of the confab is the conferment of the CREBA Pillar Awards to the outstanding “developers of the decade” during the Golden Jubilee Gala Night to recognize excellence and the best of the best in Philippine real estate development in terms of social and economic impacts, innovation, sustainability and adaptation to the changing demands of the property market. 

Supporting the convention are leading industry players Boysen, Vistaland and Communityline Housing as Platinum Sponsors. 

DMCI Homes, SM Development Corporation, Ayala Land, Megaworld Corporation, San Miguel Corporation, R-Land, and Primehomes are gold sponsors, with Filinvest Land, Robinsons Land, and Sta. Lucia Land as silver sponsor.

Also supporting the event are: Aboitizland, the Pag-IBIG Fund, the Ascott Ltd., Cebu Landmasters Inc., Bank of the Philippine Islands, PH1 World Developers, Rua Seguridad, RBRA Technologies, CDC Holdings, E. Ganzon Inc., Duraville Group, Dulalia Homes, Hausland Development Corp., Federal Land, Active Group, Surepanel, IPM Realty, Megawide and Paymongo, Chua announced.

“All roads lead to this national event involving government and private industry stakeholders from CREBA’s close to 30 chapters nationwide,” Cariño further said.

Citing real estate as encompassing all businesses, the CREBA leaders called on all its members, partners, and allies across the industry to join the event and take part in this crucial phase of national development.

Interested parties may contact the event organizers via https://crebalegacyat50.com or Viber: (0922) 877-1332.
 

JV Ejercito placed it to the Top 12 in almost all of the surveys

"Nobody deserves to live a miserable life." 

“I am in favor of divorce for only one reason--for those that have been psychologically and physically abused by their partners," reelectionist Senator JV Ejercito told us during a press conference held Monday.    

"If the  relationship has become very turbulent and irreconcilable dun I think applicable yung divorce. Kung talagang sinasaktan na physically or emotionally kailangan naman mabigyan ng chance na mabuhay ng maayos because nobody deserves to live a miserable life."

Sen JV said despite being "adopted" by several parties he considers this as the toughest campaign of his political career as he is running as an independent. Getting the endorsement of the President he said as well as the warm reception of the people he meets at the campaign trail motivates him to push through despite his limited funds.  

His hard work it seems is slowly paying off as he already made it to the top 12 in almost all of the surveys, placing as high as number 7.

  

“I think Im an easy candidate to sell,  even if I have no political, I am proud of my track record as a public servant and the laws I have passed when I was in the senate.”

Senator JV Ejercito sponsored and authored Senate Bill 1896, or the Universal Health Care (UHC), which automatically enrolls all Filipino citizens in the National Health Insurance Program and prescribes complementary reforms in the health system. Simply put, it gives all Filipinos access to health-care coverage and services while protecting them from enduring financial hardship as a result. 

 

Every Filipino citizen will be entitled to healthy living, working and schooling conditions, and access to a comprehensive set of health services without any financial hardships. 

 

Provide financial assistance for medical emergencies, hospital admission and all other medical routines that focus on treatment and rehabilitation. 

 

Senator JV wants to return to the Senate to make sure that the UHC Law will be properly implemented and enjoyed by all Filipinos, especially amid the COVID-19 pandemic. 

@lola_lamon Dont forget to cast your vote for the good one @JV Ejercito ♬ original sound - Lou Sv

 

According to him, the pandemic has exacerbated the weaknesses of the country’s healthcare system and hampered the implementation of the UHC Law. He feels that it his mission and obligation to finish and oversee its implementation. 

 

He also said that the country’s healthcare system suffers from three major problems amidst the COVID-19 pandemic: inadequate healthcare facilities, delayed benefits and privileges for healthcare workers, and mismanagement of the PhilHealth program. All of these can be addressed by the full implementation of the UHC Law, he added. 

INFRASTRUCTURE to unleash potential of Mindanao’s natural resources - JV Ejercito Former Senator Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito said improving Mindanao’s infrastructure will bring the best out of the island's vast natural resources. 

 

Ejercito said Mindanao is in the best position to be one of Asia’s most valuable sources of agricultural products. 

 

“Noong nadaanan ko ang Liguasan March kahapon at yung iba pang areas sa Mindanao, napakayaman talaga ng Mindanao. Talagang gifted ng natural resources. Abundant and very rich ang soil ng Mindanao,” he said. 

 

“We just have to put the necessary infrastructure para ma-tap natin at ma-maximize natin ang potential ng Mindanao to be the fruit basket not only of the Philippines but of Asia,” he added. 

 

Ejercito, who has been advocating for infrastructure development since his first term in the Senate, said constructing an efficient railway system in Mindanao will not only improve the delivery of agricultural goods but also reduce poverty and deter armed conflict on the island. 

 

“Malaking bagay kaya kung maisama pa natin ang railway system dito, nako, talagang sisigla, uusbong ang ekonomiya ng Mindanao. Mawawala na rin, sa tingin ko, ang kaguluhan dito in the next decades,” he said. 

 

The former Senator recently called for the construction of the Mindanao Railway System to promote economic development in conflict-ridden areas and “pave the way for genuine and lasting peace.”

JV Ejercito eyes construction of advanced healthcare facilities in the Visayas 

 

Former Senator Joseph Victor Ejercito said he will push for the enhancement of healthcare facilities in the Visayas and other key areas in the country. 

 

Should he retum to the Senate, Ejercito said he will ensure the full implementation of the Healthcare Facilities Enhancement Program under the Universal Healthcare Law, which he principally sponsored. 

 

“In line with the Universal Healthcare Act, yung Health Facilities Enhancement Program, one of the aim is to put up specialty centers in strategic areas all over the country,” he said in an interview with DYRF Radio Fuerza 

 

“We will establish a lung center, a kidney center, and a heart center and a cancer center sa V. Sotto Medical Center,” he added. 

 

Aside from the Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center in Cebu, specialty health facilities will also be constructed in major hospitals in the Western Visayas, Northern Mindanao, Bicol, and Davao regions, Ejercito said. 

 

Once these facilities are constructed, the former Senator said patients from different provinces would no longer need to travel to the National Capital Region to secure advanced healthcare services. 

 

“Pag meron tayong complicated cases, Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao, they bring it ali there, to the specialty centers (in Metro Manila),” Ejercito said. 

 

“Imagine if you go to Manila, may accommodation, may airfare, may companion pa, times two 0 times three. It’s very expensive and very inconvenient,” he added. 

 

Asking Cebuanos for support, Ejercito said he hopes to return to the Senate to ensure that all Filipinos will benefit from the Universal Healthcare Law. 

 

“My priority is really to survive this COVID-19 pandemic and of course, to implement the Universal Healthcare Act. Hayaan niyo lang ako na tapusin ito. Sana di na po mangyari yung magkasakit lang yung isang miyembro ng pamilya, mauubos ang ating savings, magbebenta tayo ng kagamitan, magsasangla tayo ng lupa,” he said. 

 

With the full implementation of the Universal Healthcare Act, ang ating gobyermo ay nandiyan na para umalalay sa atin. Hindi na tayo dapat mamroblema, especially yung mga senior citizens, PWDs and indigents,” he added.

Angkas gathers multi-party senatoriables in the Angkas Safety Fiesta

Angkas bikers and senatorial candidates from a wide range of political parties gathered in the Angkas Safety Fiesta to jointly push for the welfare and protection of the 18-million-strong biker community.

 

The Cainta-based event, which was packed by 3,000 bikers, also signaled the trailblazing ride-hailing service provider’s preparation to provide alternative transport due to the imminent return of pre-pandemic traffic in Metro Manila following the lowering of COVID-19 restrictions. 

 

 “An estimated 99% of motorcycle owners are low-income breadwinners. Motorcycles are at the center of their road to economic freedom and financial independence,” explained Angkas CEO George Royeca. “It is for this reason that we have invited candidates from every party. The welfare and livelihoods of 18 million Filipinos---and the families they support---are issues that cut through party divisions and affect all of us. Whatever your political inclinations are, we hope that 18 million kagulongs are part of the national agenda,” he added. 

Senatoriables, leaders, and the biker community support Angkas’ return to the streets in the recent Angkas Safety Fiesta. Uppermost row: Angkas CEO George Royeca and the bikers preparing to serve the public again. 2^nd upper row, from L: former Ifugao governor Teddy Baguilat; Sen. Risa Hontiveros; free legal service counsel Chel Diokno; and Sen. Sonny Trillanes. Middle row, from L: Actor Robin Padilla; former senator JV Ejercito; Atty. Greco Belgica, former head of the Presidential Anti-Corruption Commission; and former presidential spokesman Harry Roque. Lowest row, from L: Health advocate Dr. Minguita Padilla; former PNP Chief Guillermo Eleazar; civic leader and women’s right advocate Samira Gutoc; and John Castriciones, former Secretary of Agrarian Reform. Bottom photo: An estimated 3,000 bikers came out in support. 

 

 

Angkas pioneered the motorcycle taxi industry in 2016 and gave the beginnings of legitimacy and professional regulation to tens and thousands of habal-habal riders who were previously criminalized by the government. Many challenges still face motorcycle bikers on a daily basis from lack of bike-friendly infrastructure, livelihood benefits, and the proper system to protect them from being regarded and treated as second-class citizens on the road. “There are 18 million bikers in the country, three times the number of cars. Unfortunately, roads are not optimized for bikers,” pointed out Royeca.

 

Free legal service counsel and senatoriable Chel Diokno supported this, saying that “...the transport policy of the government should be about moving people, not cars. The government has prioritized building more highways for cars, while we should be focusing more on how to move people to get where they need to get, in the shortest possible time. … Motorcycles are really suited to that role. But of course, we need to develop our mass transit system as well.”

 

Former presidential spokesman and senatorial candidate Harry Roque pointed out that Angkas can help revitalize the economy similar to the way that its bike counterpart in Thailand has been key to its thriving tourism industry:  “Napakadaming beses akong nakarating ng Bangkok … Dahil sa Bangkok ‘yung kanilang counterpart na Angkas ang dahilan kung bakit sumigla ang turismo at ekonomiya ng Thailand.” (I’ve visited Bangkok many times … In Bangkok, Angkas’ counterpart was the reason for the revitalization of Thailand’s economy and tourism.”)

 

Seeking a return to the Senate this year, JV Ejercito, a longtime supporter of Angkas and a biker himself, confirmed Angkas’ contributions to the economy, addressing them directly: “\...Kung wala kayo... malamang lalo nang bumagsak ang ating ekonomiya. Kayo ang bumuhay sa ekonomiya habang tayo ay ni-lockdown...at may-pandemiya.”  (If you weren’t around … the economy could have further deteriorated. You are the ones who kept the economy alive especially during the lockdowns and the pandemic.”)

 

Among Angkas’ first hurdles to wide acceptance was the common perception that motorcycles are inherently unsafe. To overcome this, Angkas provided free training for over 150,000 applicant bikers, 70% of whom actually failed. As a result of its uncompromising standards, the company has maintained a safety rating of 99.997% even after millions of rides. This convinced the government to take a second look at the motorcycle-riding sector and consider legitimizing the motorcycle taxi industry.

 

The success of the Angkas business model complemented by its strict safety training protocol has led to tens of thousands of new biker entrepreneurs who make at least PHP 1,500-2,000 a day or PHP 45k-60k monthly which is up to three times the minimum wage. Best of all, because they are entrepreneurs, these bikers control their working hours and have time for other important things such as family time. 

 

“Today, there are an estimated 18-million motorcycle owners, 99% of whom are low-income earners and breadwinners,” shared Royeca. “Should they be given legitimacy as a sector, they will certainly be a formidable economic force that will provide adequately for their families, as well as help revive the economy by providing incomparably energy and time-efficient mobility and logistics services,.”

 

Bikers’ roles remain as vital as the country moves past COVID-19 and on to the challenge of rebuilding. Hopeful returnee Senator Sonny Trillanes explained: “We will be more and more dependent on motorcycles for logistics. It’s very convenient, and people have discovered that convenience. You cannot put the paste back into the tube. It’s for the betterment of society, because it's less costly.” 

 

Former Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Guillermo Eleazar acknowledged Angkas’ accomplishment: “...’Yung presence ninyo, naiba ang landscape ng transportation sa Metro Manila pati na sa buong Pilipinas.”  (“Your presence changed the transportation landscape of Metro Manila, and the whole country’). 

 

Seeking re-election, Senator Risa Hontiveros cited the need to constantly dialog with the motorcycle entrepreneur sector to learn their needs, and address these in the form of appropriate legislation: “Napakahalaga ng inyong boses para matukoy natiin ano ang mga pangangailangan at problema. At paano ito matutugunan ng mga maayos na batas.”

 

In the time of COVID-19, motorcycle entrepreneurs proved invaluable to the economy in general, and in the day-to-day lives of people in particular. Motorcycles have been the very engine that has been driving commerce even in the strictest lockdowns. Former Ifugao governor and senatorial candidate Teddy Baguilat of the Liberal Party pointed out: “They kept us afloat during the lockdowns.” 

 

Angkas bikers in particular have stepped up and become heroes providing critical services to those who need them, supporting and partnering with different government agencies, and ensuring that our frontliners get fast and safe to the hospitals and back to their homes, often at great personal risk. 

 

Senatorial candidate Dr. Minguita Padilla suggested potentially life-saving applications for motorcycle entrepreneurs: “Sa medical emergencies. nakikita niyo ang mga ambulansya na stuck sa traffic pero angmotorcycles pwedeng dumaan sa traffic. At sa ibang bansa ay ginagamit na sila, pang first-aid, pang mgaemergency med vehicles.” (In medical emergencies we often see ambulances stuck in traffic, but motorbikes can easily get through traffic. In other countries, motorcycles are already used as emergency medical vehicles.)

 

Baguilat noted from conversations with tricycle drivers that spare part shortages for their motorbikes have become a problem: “We have to look into how we can manufacture locally made spare parts kung kakayanin (if possible).”

 

Senatoriable and actor Robin Padilla who is running for Uniteam and who is also an avid biker, pointed out that fuel prices are bikers’ biggest problem. He vowed to do something about it: “Mga ‘tol, isa lang ang ipapangako ko sa inyo. ‘Pag ako pinagkatiwalaan ninyo na mailuklok niyo na maging senador niyo at maging boses niyo, isa lang ‘tol. Gagawa tayo ng pambansang gasolinahan. Ibig sabihin hindi na dapat ‘yan i-tax ng gobyerno.” (Brothers, I have only one promise to you. If you trust me and elect me as your Senator, and allow me to act as your voice, we will establish a nationalized fuel company. This means fuel will not be taxed by the government.)

 

 “While our primary concern today is the welfare of 18 million motorcycle riders, we are by no means suggesting that they be given a handout,” emphasized Royeca. “For many logistical and mobility-related tasks, there is absolutely no substitute for motorcycles. They have always been and have become even more vital to commerce in the country.  Yet to this day, bikers are second-class citizens, both on the road and legally. Their livelihoods don’t enjoy protection from the law despite their significant economic contribution.” 

 

“To the 18 million people that are depending on two wheels for their livelihoods, we want you to have the proper representation and good champions who will really look at what you’re doing, how you can thrive, how you can be better, and also fight for your rights,” said Royeca, addressing the motorcycle-riding public. “At the end of the day yun lang po (that’s all we want), sana po hindi na po sila (that they no longer be) second-class citizens. Sana po hindi na po sila tignan bilang mga criminal (it would be good if they were no longer regarded as criminals). This is something that we will always be fighting for until we are able to establish that,” he concluded.

 

Other noteworthy candidates who addressed the crowd were Senator Win Gatchalian represented by Jerry Esplana; Congresswoman Cristal Bagatsing of Manila City’s 5^th District; Senatorial hopefuls John Castriciones, Samira Gutoc, Alex Lacson represented by wife Pia Lacson, Greco Belgica, Ariel Lim; and the Abante Pilipinas Party List. Senatorial Jopet Sison was also in attendance. Senatoriables Alan Peter Cayetano and Joel Villanueva sent messages of support.

 

Angkas gets support from Senatoriables

I remember when I was still driving—way back during my college years when traffic—believe it or not--happened during rush hours.

But now traffic is becoming almost like those convenient stores operating almost 24/7 okay that’s a bit of an exaggeration—because the roads are still free from 1am till about 4am—in certain places.

And I don’t think even those new flyovers and “skyways” will provide a solution to our traffic problem.

Nowadays you have to allot a couple of hours if you are going to pass through EDSA and at least an hour to go anywhere else.

Don’t even get me started about commuting, because its one of the reasons why I quit the labor force and decided to work at home instead. Its either you get harassed and risk your sanity riding the MRT /”LRT or spend most of your salary on taxi’s and grab rides.

As for those UVs especially those old FXs, some are so worn down its like being in an oven toaster since their ACs are not working properly.  You'll get sick and its bad for your health.

The only comfortable way to commute is if you ride the P2P bus but what if you are in a real hurry and the only other option is to make “Angkas”

Too bad Angkas is still facing a lot of problems. 

I remember last year. I had a 6pm event. I took the mrt from Trinoma going to Ayala at exactly 4pm. I left the house in QC at 3pm. I alloted 3 hours just to get in time in BGC. When in Ayala, I looked for a "car pool" going to BGC in High Street. There were no transportation available that day because of traffic and it was December. Traffic was everywhere. Someone in the motorcycle lane in Ayala going to BGC, asked if I wanted to go fast my destination for only 15 minutes, I said yes. So there I was riding a habal and wearing a skirt. We took off and arrived just in time. I was 30 minutes late but was just relieved that I made it to that event. 

Angkas is a stress reliever to all the commuters everyday. The fare is reasonable and you can get in time for no less than an hour, just remember to wear your helmet properly and hold on to kuya driver.

Last week, I attended an Angkas Safety Fiesta event. Several senatorial candidates supported the event and pushed for the rights of  motorcycle riders.

In a rare event, several senatorial candidates from different political parties came together for the Angkas Safety Fiesta and collectively called for the resumption of the app-based ride-hailing service. 

Senatoriables Grace Poe, Bam Aquino, Chel Diokno, Bato dela Rosa, and JV Ejercito all graced the Safety Fiesta to support Angkas’ efforts to propagate the proper safety training of motorcycle riders in the Philippines.

The senatoriables were joined by Rep. Winston Castelo, the chair of the House Committee on Metro Manila Development, and wife Councilor Precious Hipolito-Castelo.

In the event, the senatoriables and the other candidates agreed that it was high time for the government to implement the legalization and regulation of motorcycle taxis.

They also called for the resumption of Angkas’ operations, stressing that the non-action on the part of the concerned government agencies constitutes a continuing violation of motorcycle riders’ rights especially since Angkas has been providing a decent source of livelihood for thousands of motorcycle owners in the country, aside from helping Filipinos in their daily commuting woes.\

Senator Grace Poe, in her speech during the program, commended Angkas’ safety training while declaring that the ride-hailing service will help in addressing the country’s mass transport problems. “Ang totoo, ako ay saludo sa Angkas dahil binibigyan kayo ng proper training and guidance. Kailangan natin talaga ang iba’t-ibang pagkakataon at modes of transportation. May bus, may jeep, at may MRT, pero kulang pa,” the senator said.

“Pero ang aking tututukan ay dapat ligtas ang ating mga pasahero. Kaya ako ay nagpapasalamat sa Angkas dahil nagbibigay sila ng tamang training sa inyong lahat,” Sen. Poe added.

For his part, senatoriable Diokno said that he is pushing for the rights of motorcycle riders.

“Naiintidihan ko talaga yung pangangailangan na magkaroon tayo ng isang batas na kinikilala ang karapatan ng mga motorcycle riders na magkaroon ng hanapbuhay na legal, hanapbuhay na kinikilala ng batas,” Diokno said.

Senatorial candidate Bato dela Rosa, in his own talk, also told the participants of the Safety Fiesta that he will support motorcycle taxi regulation if he gets elected to the Senate. “Ako’y anak ng tricycle driver. Motorsiklo ang gamit ng tatay ko. Nagmomotor din ako, kaya kung ako ay manalo, susuportahan ko ang Angkas bill na pending sa Senado,” dela Rosa declared.

The Angkas Safety Fiesta is a series of events that aim to promote motorcycle road safety among Filipinos. The most recent event was held at Vertis North, Quezon City and featured a safety seminar, an earthquake response briefing, and preventive maintenance discussions—all presided by Angkas trainers. A free medical assistance booth was also set up for the attendees of the event.

Performing during the event were Andrew E, Dante Gulapa, Mateo Guidicelli, Mayonnaise, Allmost, D&G, and Trix the Angkas Rapper. The program was hosted by DJ Laila.

In his speech, Senator Bam Aquino acknowledged the motorcycle riders’ need to seek a decent livelihood with the motorcycles that they own. “Lahat tayo na gustong maghanapbuhay, gustong magnegosyo ay hindi dapat pinipigilan,” Sen. Aquino stressed.

“Mahalaga na mabigyang suporta po natin yung ating mga sektor na naghahanap ng tulong upang makapaghanapbuhay para sa ating pamilya,” he added.

Sen. Aquino also commended Angkas for helping motorcycle riders in many ways. “Yung Angkas po, maganda yung kanilang framework, maganda yung kanilang app, marami pong natutulungan. Gaya po ninyo na puwede pong maghanapbuhay gamit ang inyong mga motor, at the same time nagbibigay ng mga leksiyon at lecture tungkol sa safety at security ninyo,” Sen. Aquino noted.

Administration senatorial candidate JV Ejercito, who is a motorcycle enthusiast himself, also expressed his support for the regulation of Angkas, reiterating that he has a pending bill in Congress that addresses the regulation issues of motorcycle taxis.

Rep. Winston Castelo echoed the other guests’ sentiments as he vowed to push for the legalization and regulation of motorcycle taxis. “Bigyan natin ng hanapbuhay ang taumbayan. Kaya ako po ay nagfile ng bill sa Kongreso and I am happy to announce, and I am proud to tell you that it has been approved,” Rep. Castelo revealed. “Hindi tayo papayag na mahirapang muli ang taumbayan. Hindi tayo papayag na hindi kayo mabigyan ng oportunidad na magkaroon ng hanapbuhay,” he added.

Angkas Head of Regulation and Public Affairs George Royeca, in turn, spoke on behalf of the ride-sharing service. “It has been our advocacy in Angkas to promote road safety consciousness among the motorcycle riders of the country,” Royeca stressed. “This is why we have been holding the Safety Fiesta in order to make as many motorcycle riders aware of the need to ride safely every single time and propagate the knowledge of how to ride motorcycles as safely as they can,” he added.

Meet the Woman behind the Senator's success

How many times have you heard the saying; “Behind every successful man is a woman.”

Its  probably one of those quotes that have been used, overused and abused—just as there have been countless arguments about it, mostly depending on the success or the man being referred to.

But honestly it’s the one thought running through my mind that Tuesday afternoon in Greenhills while -having lunch with Cindy Lotuaco-Ejercito—the wife of re-electionist Senator JV Ejercito.

Its not everyday that you get to have lunch with a senator’s wife, much more with someone who was also a beauty queen and a cancer survivor.  Ma. Hyacinth “Cindy” Lotuaco was a former runner-up at the Mutya ng Pilipinas beauty pageant and a flight attendant. Her pageant training was very much evident as she walked in wearing a black ensemble and Valentino flats—effortless yet very elegant.

She was a very soft-spoken person, opting not to talk too much about politics, but like any other mom, she got excited when the topic was her son Julio and you could feel a bit of “kilig” everytime she talked about her husband,  Sen JV—except when he’s out riding—but more on that later.

I ‘ve had the chance to meet Senator JV a couple of weeks earlier and as I mentioned in my previous post, I was quite surprised how simple Sen JV was.  Unlike other politicians who usually swarmed by bodyguards and immediately whisked off in a private room to eat quietly, Sen JV just walked up to the buffet, lined up like everyone else and got his own food. It was quite a simple act, but not something you’d see other politicians or even celebrities doing. http://www.lemongreenteaph.com/search?q=jv+ejercito

Cindy was the same, she was very down to earth, and someone you’d actually want to be friends with. We asked her what her beauty routine was and she said she just uses soap and moisturizer and has not undergone any anti-aging procedure on her face.

I would have wanted to ask how she and Sen JV met and their love story, but we were already lost in her anecdotes of how Sen JV was whenever he was at home.

She said JV is a very funny man, who loves to crack jokes, which was quite surprising as we often see him very serious at the senate hearings and not as vocally expressive like his colleagues in the upper house. She also described JV as very sweet and thoughtful and would spend his Sundays at home to try to make time for his family.

Cindy also says JV loves Sinigang na Lechon something he shares in common with his dad Mayor Erap's who also loves the dish.

She talked highly about her son Julio as well as Emilio (JV’s son from Patty Bettita) and said they’ve also become quite close and would even cook him his favorite carbonara whenever he visits their house. She says they are proud to have kids that are growing up to be responsible and God-fearing gentlemen.


We asked her if she would allow her sons to follow in their grandfather’s showbiz footprints, and she said “yes,” since Emilio is handsome and tall, but knowing how “mahiyain” they both are, she said its unlikely. But the’d  respect and support whatever their sons want to do in the future.

Things got a bit serious when she began to talk about being diagnosed with breast cancer. She admits it was one of the most difficult times for her and all she could think about was who would take care of Julio who was still a very young kid that time.

But from that dark period in their lives, came one of Sen JV’s landmark bills.  Sen JV penned the National Integrated Cancer Control Act measure, now Republic Act No. 11215 taking inspiration from her being a Cancer survivor.

Coincidentally, the law was signed by President Duterte on February 14, Valentine’s  Day a fitting tribute to a law that was born from Sen JV’s love for his wife Cindy.

The law mandates a more focused prevention and integrated cancer program that would improve the survivorship of cancer patients, noting that the dreaded illness is the third leading cause of adult death and fourth in child mortality.

The Philippine Cancer Facts and Estimates from the Department of Health has revealed an alarming increase in the incidence of cancer, estimating up to 8 deaths per day for childhood cancer and up to 11 new cases and 7 deaths every hour for adult cancer.

This computes to a figure of approximately 110,000 new cancer cases and over 66,000 cancer deaths each year.

Sen JV, also authored Universal Health Care bill, believing the law would address the various gaps in the cancer care continuum and integrated solutions.

With the elections just a week away, I do hope we think about the people we vote. To vote for those who have proven track records of service like Sen JV Ejercito and not just because of popularity and surveys.

The fight for better health services continues for Mr. Healthcare Senator JV Ejercito

For the regular readers of my blog, you know that in my previous life, long before I joined the blogging world, I worked at one of the biggest private hospitals in Manila.



I was as one of the admitting officers in what we called the “Panic Room” because everyone who came in to the admissions department was either panicking or in a state of panic. And we couldn’t blame them because even if we were one of the biggest and most advanced hospitals back then, getting a room / or bed was almost as hard as finding a seat at the MRT during rush hour.

There were patients coming in droves from the Emergency Room, expectant mothers who’ll tell you that their water just broke and are about to give birth, and others who come in from different hospitals. We were always at full capacity and it was hard to allocate the rooms for the Medical, Pediatric and OB patients.



What’s even harder is trying to explain to the patient and their companions that we couldn’t just put them in any room as there were different wards for different kinds of illnesses. Or that we were still waiting for the outgoing patients to settle their bills, or that there was simply not going to be any available room for the rest of the day. Even if you had the money.



Sometimes, patients would have to wait for as long as 5 to 6 hours. There was even a time, when a patient had to wait the entire day just to get a room.



In my years of working in the admissions department, we would also have to deal with patients who were endorsed by public hospitals. The reason for this is either the lack of medical equipment like oxygen tanks, there were no specialization doctors for the patient re- diagnosis, some would need to be moved to the ICU or there were no NICU rooms available for babies.

The recently approved Universal HealthCare Law authored by Senator JV Ejercito might not solve all the problems being faced by hospitals, but it would surely benefit every Filipino who is in dire need of access to proper health care coverage and services.



He considered the ratification of UHC as “a victory for all Filipinos and a sound accomplishment that truly reflects his commitment to uplift the condition of the people. “No Filipino will be left out because under the UHC, all Filipinos are covered under the national health insurance program,” said the senator.

This was one of the reasons why Senator JV Ejercito has taken up the mantle of Mr. Healthcare as he seeks reelection in the senate. At a recent dinner he hosted for friends last March 28 at Lazat Restaurant in QC, he stressed that having the law signed by President Rodrigo Duterte was just the beginning of an even bigger challenge for him, and that is to make sure that the Universal Health Care Bill law will not just be a landmark law on paper, but something that will improve the lives of all Filipinos.

The law automatically enrolls all Filipinos to the National Health Insurance Program (NHIP) and ensures all Filipinos are guaranteed equitable access to quality and affordable health goods and services and protection against financial risks.

Under the measure, membership in the NHIP will be classified as “direct contributors” or those who have the capacity to pay premiums, or “indirect contributors” or those sponsored by the government such as indigents, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities.

The law also grants every Filipino “immediate eligibility” and access to preventive, promotive, curative, rehabilitative, and palliative health services, delivered either as population-based or individual-based health services.



Senator JV Ejercito, adds that the law would expand PhilHealth coverage, which would include free medical checkups, laboratory tests, and other diagnostic services.



All graduates of health-related courses who are recipients of government-funded scholarship programs will be required to serve for at least 3 years in the public sector, he said.



Funds for public health coverage will be pooled from the incremental sin tax collections, charity fund from the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO), income from the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR), premium contribution of members, annual appropriations of the Department of Health (DOH), and government subsidy to PhilHealth.


As a lawmaker he has authored 41 ENACTED LAWS;  6 Bills Pending Signature And Approval By The President; 173 BILLS, 17th Congress; 40 RESOLUTIONS during the 17th Congress.


If Ejercito wins a second term, the senator adds he would also focus on creating laws to support infrastructure development and railway system. Infrastructure he said is key to furthering the development of the economy and the country. 



In previous interview Senator JV repeatedly underscored the relevance of a modern railway system to the economic growth of the country, saying that “only an efficient, reliable, cost-effective, environment-friendly and modern railway system which moves people and goods faster can be the catalyst for economic growth.”

He again expressed his commitment to revive and improve the existing Railways both in the northern and southern parts of the country and has been very vocal about his vision of having a modern, efficient railway system for the country even when he was the Representative of San Juan City in the 15th Congress.



“One of the reasons why I support President Duterte is because he is the only President in the recent years to commit and spend P3 trillion for infrastructures in the next six years. We have a growing population, now stands at 105 million; and 30,000 new vehicles are added to our streets every month- that’s around one million vehicles in the next three years.



“We need to push for our railway projects, particularly the PNR-North, PNR- South, Mindanao railways system, and now the Metro Manila Subway System.

“For me, railway is the only way. I’m glad that the President has the political will to really push for this. He has the political will to bite the bullet kahit medyo maghihirap muna tayo, konting trapik, pero dapat nating gawin.”



The only way we can spread out development to the countryside and, at the same time, decongest Metro Manila, Cebu and Davao, is through infrastructure development and transport modernization. 



I think the Philippines is 30 years behind in terms of infrastructure development. We have a lot of catching up to do. Kung gusto natin ng tunay na hanapbuhay, if we want genuine exclusive growth, we really have to invest in infrastructure and transport modernization, Sen JV pointed out.

PH Online Car Registration coming soon

I learned how to drive when I was 16 y/old and got my professional (take note) when I turned 18.  Because there were only very few driving schools back then, it was my tatay who taught me how to drive defensively.

At first I really didn’t want to drive but because of our business and being the eldest. I was tasked to pick up and deliver some materials from our shop in Manila to Makati.

Back then, the streets of Manila weren’t as congested so it was a bit more-friendly for women drivers like me who were still learning how to drive. Unfortunately, the same couldn’t be said about my experience at the Land Transportation Office.

If I recall correctly, Tatay had to meet our clients so I had no choice but to go to the LTO to register our vehicle. I arrived a bit past 8am, just as they opened but there was already a long line. I was standing for almost an hour when a “fixer” approached me from asking if I wanted help in processing my papers “faster.” He then went on saying that he had an “contact” inside who can help facilitate everything in an hour or so including stencil, plus insurance, everything. All I had to do was pay an extra P1,000.

As tempting as I might seem, I didn’t have that extra money. He left and saw him approach a few other people in line offering his “service.”  After about 20 minutes, he came back reducing his offer to P800. This was in the 90’s when P1000 was still a big deal. I told him I didn’t have the money, but he was really getting persuasive,  telling me that I would be spending the whole day in line--unsure if I would even be able to file our registration.

He eventually left and he was right it took me almost five hours to finish processing our registration. When I got home I told my tatay the story, and I was shocked when he told me that there were really a lot of fixers at the LTO, it has already become the norm—that some corrupt official really make you wait long so you are forced to pay these fixers just to get things done.

Its been a long time since I last went to the LTO and I heard that the agency is trying to improve its services and eliminate fixers especially during the current administration. President Duterte had described the LTO as one of the most corrupt agencies in the country even naming some of the agency officials.

I also heard that Senator JV Ejercito has filed a bill to automate vehicle registrations (and eventually every transaction at LTO) with the aim of eliminating corruption by removing the human element.

I think this is a very timely bill and a very important one, especially with all the traffic problems in the city. Especially if you are a mom with kids, going to the LTO will just be a waste of time and would disrupt your schedule.

But with the Human element removed there would be no more opportunities for these fixers to harass vehicle owners.