July 13, 1973

[1] Official Gazette for July 14, 1973: THE PRESIDENT has promulgated Presidential Decree No. 240 authorizing the Postmaster General to supervise, regulate and control the operations of private express or messenger delivery service firms to systematize control over the carriage and dissemination of mailable matter for the good of the public and in the interest of national security. The decree likewise empowers the postmaster general to issue, grant, extend, suspend, or cancel franchises or permits of these private or express messenger delivery service enterprises. THE PRESIDENT said that proof of the validity of the New Society’s program and policies may be gathered from the high wave of investments the country is now enjoying. The president pointed out that of the investments from various sources, some have been infused into the economy while others are on the way to being transplanted to the land. Addressing the convention of manufacturers and producers, the President said that since September 21, the Board of Investments has registered 123 firms under the various Investment Laws, including seven under the Investment Incentives Act, 50 under the Foreign Business Regulation Act. And 50 under the Export Incentives Act. Many more applications are under study, he said, and may soon be in the economic picture in the coming years. He added that tourism earned $120 million, or 11 per cent of the total foreign exchange receipts in 1972. DEPARTMENT of Trade released the rules and regulations governing the operations of investment houses. Prepared by the Securities and Exchange Commission, the basic rules and regulations will implement the provisions of Presidential Decree No. 129, otherwise known as the “Investment Houses Law.” Under the rules, investment houses shall be organized m the form of stock corporations in accordance with the provisions of the Corporation Law, subject to certain requirements. Ownership is vested on citizens of the Philippines to the extent of at least a majority of the voting stock of the corporation. Majority of the members of the board must also be citizens of the Philippines. DEPARTMENT of Health underscored the importance of effective nutrition campaign particularly among the poor. Health Secretary Clemente S. Gatmaitan told the country’s nutritionists during the induction ceremonies of the newly-elected officers of the Philippine Association of Nutrition, that nutrition work, to be effective and successful, must get down to the lowest level of socio-economic structure because they are the ones usually associated with nutrition work. Nutrition surveys have shown that the children, particularly the very young in the rural areas have the poorest nutrition when compared to other groups, Secretary Gatmaitan said. He said that nutrition programs involve almost always inter-agency and multi-disciplinary activities and that cooperation among participating agencies is essential. THE PHILIPPINES continued; to forge ahead in its trade with the People’s Republic of China with the shipment of 20,000 cubic meters of logs valued at close to P5 million. The shipment was approved by Secretary of Trade Troadio T. Quiazon Jr., on recommendation of Mr. Jovito A Rivera, general manager of the National Trading Corporation. The log exports were the first approved by Secretary Quiazon for the People’s Republic of China. Previous shipments consisted of Portland cement plywood and veneer, crude coconut oil in bulk, desiccated coconut, copra, woodenware and woodencraft . Trade with socialist and communist countries has been picking up since the promulgate by the President of Executive Order No. 384 providing for the policy guidelines governing trade with the Red block countries. BUREAU of Customs adopted; measures to check the commission of fraud against the Government through misrepresentation or falsification in customs transactions involving locally purchased motor vehicles. Customs Commissioner Rolando G. Geotina said in memorandum that Informal Import Declaration and Entry (Form 177) is an accountable form only to be issued to principal examiners or their assistants. The new system which takes effect immediately was promulgated with the view of pinpointing individual responsibilities over transactions of this nature.

[2] Official Gazette for July 15, 1973: DISPUTES among government offices arsing out of varying interpretations of laws and contracts will now be settled administratively to avoid lengthy and tedious court proceedings. This new ruling is contained in Presidential Decree No. 242, issued by the President, prescribing the procedures to be followed in the administrative settlement of the inter-governmental controversies. The decree provides that provisions of law to the contrary notwithstanding, all disputes, claims and controversies solely between or among the departments, bureaus, offices, agencies and instrumentalities of the National Government, including government-owned or controlled corporations but excluding constitutional offices or agencies, arising from the interpretation and application of statutes, contracts or agreement henceforth are to be administratively settled or adjudicated. Not affected by the decree are cases already pending in court. GOVERNMENT Service Insurance System, through its Property Insurance Fund, may now engage in full-scale domestic and international reinsurance operations apart from its usual underwriting functions. This was made possible through the issuance by the President of Presidential Decree No. 245, amending Republic Act 656, which created the Property Insurance Fund of the GSIS. The decree names the Property Insurance Fund as the General Insurance Fund and empowers it to reinsure with, as well as to accept reinsurance from, insurance and reinsurance companies both in the Philippines and abroad. THE COUNTRY’S, economy hit its biggest stride with the international reserves registering an unprecedented peak of $655 million and dollar deposits now aggregating $363 million. On the basis of these figures, Central Bank Governor Gregorio S. Licaros reported to the President that the country had accumulated total reserves of $1.019 billion which would be more than sufficient to meet its current requirements. The assessment of the economic and financial developments covered the first six months of 1973. It underlined the continued recovery of the country’s economy since October, 1972, soon after the declaration of Martial Law. SECRETARY of Labor Bias Ople made the observation that a new middle class, equipped with basic skills in agriculture and industry, is gradually taking its proper place in the New Society. The secretary said the new class of men and women would assume positions in various sectors of the economy not on the strength of privilege but on the strength of their credentials of training, talent and creativity. According to the labor secretary, at the rate the government had been stepping up its manpower development programs and considering the redirection in the educational system, which put emphasis on manpower development, the nation would soon have a large pool of skilled labor that could be tapped for industrial development.

[3] Official Gazette for July 16, 1973: THE PRESIDENT has ordered that upon the dissolution of the Philippine Postal Savings Bank within three years from January 29, 1973, a certain portion of its assets shall be turned over to the Bureau of Posts to be used for postal improvement. Among the assets which shall be transferred to the Bureau of Posts are the following: 1) The buildings, lands, furniture, supplies and equipment now accruing to the PPSB; 2) Fifty percent of the net accumulated surplus of the bank as may be determined at the time of dissolution; 3) Any unexpected amount covering the estimated prewar liabilities of the bank subject to the approval of the President. The assets and liabilities of the PPSB had been earmarked exclusively for “the Philippine National Bank or any other appropriate existing government bank” by virtue of Presidential Decree No. 121, dated January 29, 1973. DEPARTMENT of trade lined up for prosecution several subdivision owners, developers and realty dealers for various irregularities perpetrated against house and lot buyers. Secretary of Trade Troadio T. Quiazon Jr., said corresponding actions are being readied against those who could not comply with their contractual obligations and those who would not settle their cases with the complainants. Irregularities unearthed during the initial three-week inquiries ranged from non-development of subdivisions, non-delivery of titles to the buyers after full payment and undue cancellation of contracts by subdividers for non-payment of installment resulting in the forfeiture of all installment payments. BARANGAY voters were asked to purge their thoughts of the trivial happenings that have not been relevant to the welfare of the country when they vote in the July 27 national referendum. Chairman Leonardo B. Perez of the Commission on Elections instead asked the barangay members to focus their attention on basic matters that have influenced the nation since the declaration of Martial Law. The Comelec chairman said that the voters should weigh the situation dispassionately. DEPARTMENT of Agrarian Reform advised, legitimate occupants of public lands in Manila and suburbs to transact business directly with the DAR to prevent unscrupulous individuals from taking advantage of the situation. DAR Secretary Conrado Estrella said the Government is expediting the issuance of orders of awards to legitimate occupants of the Tondo foreshore reclaimed areas and other public lands in the Manila area. TOTAL of 61,515 community development projects worth over P40.5 million were completed by rural folks throughout the country since the proclamation of Martial Law. This was contained in a report submitted to the President by the Department of Local Government and Community Development. Of these, 1,398 were financed under the grants-in-aid program costing over P13.2 million. The rest were purely self-undertakings financed jointly by the barrio people and their municipal and provincial governments. The total number of purely self-help undertakings reached 60.117 worth over P27.2 million. GOVERNMENT Service Insurance System has proposed more incentives for doctors and paramedic personnel who serve in the rural areas. GSIS Director Jose F. Caedo Jr. proposed the hiring of contractual doctors and training of paramedics or first aiders to work among the barrio folk The incentives include: 1) The building of more well-designed operative health centers to make these centers conducive to the practice of good medicine; 2) Provision of adequate transportation means for the use of health personnel and their patients; 3) Sponsorship of periodic seminars not only in cities but also in provincial towns for the professional advancement of doctors and other medical personnel; and 4) Provision of medical or scientific publications by the communities they work in for their pro fessional growth and knowledge. PHILIPPINE Tobacco Administration has revised the guidelines in the purchase of cigar-leaf tobacco. Under the new guidelines, cigar-leaf tobacco must be purchased directly from, growers and not from middlemen of licensed dealers. Each grower is required to keep, within the ceiling of 400, kilos except where he actually produced tobacco in his own farm. Growers are also required not to accept any consignment beyong PTA approved allocations. PTA Chairman and General Manager Demetrio Tabije has called on the agency’s field officers, tobacco warehousemen and farmers to follow the new guidelines strictly.

[4] Official Gazette for July 17, 1973: THE PRESIDENT created the Philippine Veterans Assistance Commission to provide the veterans and their dependents with employment, medical care, education and related services. The commission provided for in Presidential Decree No. 244 shall be provided with an initial P500,000 fund by the Government, and thereafter shall actively solicit contributions of money or other valuable properties from private or government sources, to be invested in interest-bearing securities, the income from which shall finance services for veterans and dependents. THE PHILIPPINES has been allotted a quota of $6 million for importation of various commodities by Neckermann Versand Ltd., the largest mail order house in West Germany and one of the world’s biggest outfits of its kind. Secretary of Trade Troadio T. Quiazon Jr. said the $6 million allocation for the Philippines this year would be for the importation of garments, shoes, handbags, household items, wood products, decorative items, electronics and electricals, leather, tires and travel goods and beach items including motor boats (speedboats made of fiber glasses). BUREAU of Customs announced that all its resources will be harnessed to reach the P3-billion collections target this year. Customs Commissioner Rolando G. Geotina said the collection machinery including the needed manpower have been lined-up for the project. He however warned that anyone who cannot prove equal to the task ahead will have to be laid aside in favor of willing and able-bodied men. The customs chief made the statement before participants of the 4th seminar on the new Tariff and Customs Code where he appealed for maximum effort and greater dedication among customs men. He pointed out that Bureau of Customs under Martial Law was one of the main targets of the reform movement in the government service. JOINT-VENTURE agreement between a South American company’s subsidiary and New Frontier Mines, Inc., for the exportation and development of the Philippine firm’s nickle properties in Isabela was announced. The agreement was described as a major breakthrough in the Government’s policy of attracting foreign investments. An estimated $80 million in new capital is expected to enter the country as a result of the agreement. Mr. Andres Raczynski , mining managing director of the Hochschild Group Incorporated in Panama with headquarters in Buenos Aires, joined New Frontier officials in a meeting with the President recently. Mr. David P. Cruz, president, led the New Frontier officials. In the meeting, the President reiterated his support to such projects as the nickle development of New Frontier since this will, he said, support the administration’s thrust towards speedy and full economic development for the country. NATIONAL Science Development Board announced that coconut trunks which show promise as a substitute for electric and transmission poles are also excellent materials for the manufacture of particleboards. This was reported by Commissioner Francisco Tamolang of the Forest Products Research and Industries Development, an agency of the NSDB, in connection with the search for raw materials, other than wood, for the production of particleboards. The utilization of coconut trunks would give the coconut planter additional income and would alleviate the problem of lack of supply of wood-based panels for construction purposes.

[5] Entry is misdated as July 17.

[6] Official Gazette for July 18, 1973: THE PRESIDENT welcomed the plan to establish “holiday inns” to boost tourism, as he received Mr. Kemmons Wilson, founder and board chairman of the Holiday Inns Inc., world’s largest chain of hotel, motels and lodgings. Accompanied by his wide Dorothy, Mr. and Mrs. Herbert Humphreys of Hunko Products, and Mr. Rudi Koppends , Holiday Inns vice presidents for Asia, Mr. Wilson expressed his eagerness to include the Philippines in his operations during his courtesy call at Malacañang. Mr. Wilson has already picked out a possible site right in the heart Manila, but will be scouting around for other sites before he leaves for the US. THE PRESIDENT has completed the appointments of the top three officials of the Bureau of Public Highways who will assist Commissioner Aquino in running the implementing agency in the Government’s massive loadbuilding program. Mr. Aber Canlas took his oath of office as assistant chief highway engineer of the BPH before Commissioner Aquino. Mr. Bernardo Apostol was earlier sworn in as deputy commissioner for operations, together with Mr. Leoncio Limjuco , deputy commissioner for administration. With the new setup, Commissioner Aquino said he expects the highway bureau to become more efficient and productive. THE PRESIDENT has promulgated Presidential Decree No. 243 creating a Philippine Veterans Investment Development Co. (PVIDC) to promote the full and continued utilization of the country’s manpower and to de­velop investment potentials from the veterans sector. The issuance of the decree is in consonance with the government policy of effecting desired changes and reforms in all sectors of society. The PVIDC will serve as a special agency that shall direct and look after the productive and investment possibilities coming, from this sector of society. It shall be directed, controlled and managed by a board of directors which shall be composed of the Secretary of National Defense, the Executive Secretary, and five other persons who shall be designated by the President from a list of qualified veterans and retirees. THE PRESIDENT promulgated Presidential Decree No. 247 prohibiting and penalizing the mutilation, defacement, tearing, burning or destruction of Central Bank notes and coins. The decree points out that CB notes and coins are issued for circulation as a medium of exchange and to utilize them for other purposes does not speak well of the due respect and dignity, befitting our currency. The decree provides that any person who willfully defaces, mutilates, tears, burns or destroys, in any manner whatsoever, currency notes and coins issued by the Central Bank of the Philippines shall, upon conviction, be punished by a fine of not more than P20.000 and imprisonment of not more than five years. THE COUNTRY’S export earnings from fresh bananas during the first half of the current year totalled P77.4 million and exceeded by some P20 million the total earnings for the same period last year. This was reported to Agriculture Secretary Arturo Tanco Jr. by Plant Industry Director Eliseo Carandang . The report showed that from January to June this year, the country exported 177,775,259 kilos of fresh bananas in Tanan worth P77,428,073 and overshot last year’s first six months record of P56,468,743 by some P20,959,331. Mr. Carandang said that the peak months of the fruit are yet to come and “barring unforeseen circumstances, the country should be able to attain its target of doubling last year’s record.” PRICE CONTROL Council enjoined milk manufacturers, producers and wholesalers to comply with the schedule of maximum prices of milk products particularly with the ceiling for freight and handling charges for transporting the commodities for various regions of the country. Secretary of Trade Troadio T. Quiazon Jr., issued the memorandum circular following reports that milk products were being sold in some parts of the country at prices higher than the maximum levels prescribed by the Price Control Council. Any imposition of additional costs of transportation and handling to areas other than those enumerated in the order shall constitute a violation of the Price Control Law, he said.

[7] Official Gazette for July 19, 1973: THE PRESIDENT called for more frequent visits and exchanges of information among the countries belonging to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in view of the critical situation in Indo-china. The President sounded the call following the conferment of the Ancient Order of Sikatuna , rank of datu , on Deputy Foreign Minister Chatichai Choonkavan of Thailand, who is an official guest of the Philippine government. The President presented the award in recognition of the visiting dignitary’s services in the field of international relations, his constant endeavor to strengthen friendly relations and to promote greater understanding through mutually beneficial undertakings, between Thailand and the Philippines. The ASEAN countries, the President said, being very close to each other, with parallel policies and common objectives, their foreign ministers should make more frequent visits and exchange the most current and latest impressions and information affecting the region. THE FIRST LADY Launched “ Palayan ng Bayan” a joint project of Mrs. Imelda R. Marcos with the provincial governors, aimed at contributing some eight million cavans to annual palay production. The project is an extension of the First Lady’s Green Revolution project, and will bring into cultivation thousands of hectares of virgin lands throughout the country. Under the scheme, the provincial governors will identify the areas to be placed under cultivation. A provincial team composed of representatives of the Bureaus of Forest Development, Soil, Plant Industry and Agricultural Extension will then evaluate the land as to suitability to rice or other crops. The Bureau of Lands and the Department of Agrarian Reform will formalize land identification, after which authorization for the use of the land will be obtained from appropriate authorities. GENERAL Auditing Office has authorized all municipal treasurers to serve as retailers of the National Grains Authority to facilitate the distribution of low-cost rice to the barrio people. Auditor General Ismael Mathay Sr. directed the treasurers in a memorandum to act as rice retailers if there are no NGA distributors in their respective localities during the lean months, subject to the following conditions: 1) That the municipality has no cash overdraft; 2) That appropriation for the purpose is duly provided by the municipal council; 3) That the municipality has adequate storage facilities to avoid loss and deterioration of the rice; 4) That the sale shall be strictly on cash basis; 5) That a separate book of accounts shall be kept wherein all transactions shall be entered daily, and monthly reports shall be submitted to the provincial auditor concerned; and 6) The profit, if any, shall accrue to the general fund of the municipality. BUREAU of Standards was directed immediately to establish standard specifications for brake fluids used in motor vehicles. Secretary of Trade Troadio T. Quiazon Jr., who issued the directive, furnished the bureau with a list of brands which reportedly have been found by the National Institute of Science and Technology as either within or below standard specifications. Secretary Quiazon , however, emphasized that the investigation into the reported sale of unsafe brake fluids is going on with the assistance of other competent government and private agencies. The order requires that all products sold should be properly labelled, including information as to specifications as well as the name of manufacturer and country of origin.

[8] Official Gazette for July 20, 1973: “THE PRESIDENT announced that Japanese stragglers are welcome to remain in this country as Filipino citizens with all the rights and privileges of Philippine citizenship. He made the announcement daring a call at Malacañang of a delegation from the Japan World Golf Corporation which brought to the Philippines some 70 Japanese golfers and media men to see for themselves the operation of the Philippine brand of Martial Law. The President stated that Japanese soldiers who have been here for many years can stay permanently if they wish, after going through all formalities required by Philippine laws. THE PHILIPPINES widened its trade lead over West Germany last year by wrapping up a surplus of $55.3 million in exports proceeds, or 55 per cent more than what it imported from that country during the year. Trade figures gathered from the West German Federal Statistical Office by the Philippine commercial attache in Bonn-Bad Godesberg , Germany, showed that the Philippines exported a total of $101.5 million in various goods as against imports from Germany in the amount of P56.2 million, or a surplus of $55.3 million. AN ADVISORY committee for the Hospital Dietitians and Nutritionists Association of the Philippines has been created in the Department of Health. The advisory committee, created through Department Circular No. 261, series of 1973, has for its goal the improvement of patient-care through systematic, efficient and economical dietary management in the hospitals. The newly-created committee is composed of the director of the Bureau of Health and Medical Services as chairman, the chief of the Office of Health Education and Personnel Training as vice-chairman, and 11 regional health directors as members. Health Secretary Clemente S. Gatmaitan said that proper management of the hospital diet is very important in the speedy treatment and convalescence of patients in the hospital.

[9] Official Gazette for July 21, 1973: THE PRESIDENT announced his approval and the adoption of the Four-Year Development Plan for Fiscal Years 1974-77 as prepared by the National Economic and Development Authority. The announcement was embodied in Proclamation No. 1157 issued by the Chief Executive who enjoined all government officers to align their plans and projects with the objectives and policies embodied in the Plan, including the changes that may be made therein. He also called upon the private sector to take full cognizance of the plan and to cooperate fully in the attainment of its goals and objectives. The development plan seeks to attain a more equitable distribution of, wealth, expand employment opportunities, promote social development, stabilize prices at reason able levels, accelerate economic growth, and promote regional development and industrialization. THE PRESIDENT promulgated Presidential Decree No. 248 extending the period for the registration of reservists to August 31. The President extended the deadline to enable all reservists in the country, as well as those who are abroad, to register in accordance with Presidential Decree No. 183, dated May 6. The Chief Executive warned there would be no further extension after August 31. He said all those who fail to register will be prosecuted and penalized accordingly. THE PRESIDENT has declared July’24 as a special registration day to enable many qualified citizens throughout the country, including detainees, to register for the forthcoming referendum on July 27. The President noted in Proclamation No. 1166 that many who have been unable to register should be given all the opportunity to exercise their right as citizens in the July 27 referendum which will decide certain issues vital to the country and people. THE PRESIDENT issued Presidential Decree No. 249, authorizing government officials, employes and military personnel who may have been registered as barangay members elsewhere to vote in barangay referendum centers nearest their residences or places of assignment. The new decree also provides for the postponement of the referendum in places where there is a calamity, flood, or other force majeure, violence, terrorism, loss or destruction of referendum paraphernalia Or records, and other, similar causes which may make the holding of a referendum in said places impossible. The decree amends Presidential Decree No. 229, which provides for the manner of voting and canvass in barangays. DEPARTMENT of Trade issued pointers for house and lot buyers to keep them from falling into the hands of certain unscrupulous subdivision owners and dealers. Secretary of Trade Troadio T. Quiazon Jr. said the public will do well to consider the pointers seriously to protect their own interest and avoid unnecessary litigations. On buying lots in subdivision, the Department of Trade chief said it is necessary to: 1) Check on the reliability of owners, developers; management or sales agents; study their accomplishments and other previous performances; 2) Check veracity of brochures, advertisements and other sales gimmicks; 3) Study carefully the contract to sell or land purchase agreement; 4) Do not buy lot if fees, charges and other obligations are unreasonable; 5) If lot is mortgaged, check if amortization is regularly paid and mortgage is willing to cancel mortgage if purchase price on lot is fully paid; and 6) Seek legal advice. THE PRESIDENT conferred the Presidential Merit Medal on Dr. Carl P. Schaffner and Dr. Hans Kaunitz for their lasting contributions enhancing the coconut industry in the Philippines. In a citation read by Secretary Francisco S. Tatad of the Department of Public Information, Dr. Schaffner was credited with undertaking research and scientific investigations aimed at preventing the growth of salmonella and other bacteria in processed or dessicated coconut. In the citation for Dr. Kaunitz , which was likewise read at the award ceremonies by Secretary Tatad, the professor emeritus on physiology at Columbia University was also credited with undertaking research and scientific investigations to determine the nutritional properties of coconut oil. BUREAU of Plant Industry is urging the public to plant sweet potato (camote) as it provides essential vitamins and minerals and additional income. The BPI has reported that 134,620 hectares have been planted to sweet potato in the Philippines in 1970. The total yield of 431,893,900 kilos of tubers was valued at P215, 822,900. Sweet potato is propagated by planting tubers, slips, vine cuttings or terminal cuttings. BPI’s food technologists estimated that two tubers of sweet potato contains food energy equivalent to a cup of rice. It is said to be rich in vitamins and minerals essential in the human diet.

[10] Official Gazette for July 22, 1973: MALACAÑANG issued guidelines to be followed on the placement of personnel affected by the implementation of the Integrated Reorganization Plan. The guidelines, contained in Memorandum Circular No. 650 set the priorities for placement of personnel in the following order: 1) Permanent employes presently occupying positions with the same or comparable titles and duties and responsibilities as those in the approved staffing patterns, provided that in cases where the number of positions exceed those in the staffing pattern, the incumbents shall be compared m terms of relative fitness and the most qualified shall be preferred; 2) Permanent employes presently occupying higher level of positions in the same occupational group as those in the approved staffing pattern who have not yet been placed; 3) Permanent, employes who are presently occupying allied or functionally related positions at higher or comparable levels with those positions in the staffing pattern provided such employes meet all the requirements for appointment. ONE of the biggest mail order houses in West Germany in buying $6-million worth of exportable products from the Philippines for distribution in its network of 50 department stores. To supply the huge requirements. Secretary of Trade Troadio T. Quiazon Jr. convened a meeting between the country’s leading manufacturers, producers and exporters and representatives of the German firm Neckermann Versand Ltd. of Frankfurt. Secretary Quiazon said the $6-million allocation for the Philippines this year will be for the purchase of garments, shoes, household items, wood products, decorative items, electronic and electricals, leather tires and travel goods and beach items (including speedboats made of fiber glasses). The initial purchase allocations, according to the secretary, will be increased at the rate of 12 per cent per annum. THE NATION observed the 109th birth anniversary of Apolinario Mabini, the “brain of the Philippine revolution,” with floral offerings in three places in Manila and Tanauan, Batangas. Chairman Esteban de Ocampo of the National Historical Commission said the wreath-laying rites will be held at the Mabini shrine in Barrio Talaga , Tanauan, Batangas, the Mabini shrine in Pandacan, Manila and the national library compound in T. M. Kalaw st. Apolinario Mabini was born in 1864 in Barrio Talaga , Tanauan, Batangas, to Inocencio Mabini and Dionisia Maranan . Mabini played a significant role during the second phase of the Philippine revolution. He served first as adviser to Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo and was responsible for laying down the first Philippine Republic. He wrote several decrees, including one which created the revolutionary government on June 23, 1898.

[11] Official Gazette for July 23, 1973: THE PRESIDENT issued general orders encouraging the people to discuss and debate freely the question to be resolved in the July 27 referendum and lifting the curfew before and during the national referendum The President also issued a proclamation declaring July 24 as a special public holiday. In General Order No. 32, the President expressed his desire that the people be afforded the fullest opportunity to discuss and debate freely and publicly the question to be resolved in the July 27 referendum. General Order No. 33 lifts the curfew from 12 midnight of July 23 to 4 a.m. of July 28. The President said that the people should be able to move about freely in order that they can have the fullest opportunity to discuss freely and publicly the questions to be resolved in the referendum. DEPARTMENT of Labor has created a committee on domestic helpers and hotel workers to study current recruitment practices, policies and procedures in hiring workers for overseas employment. Labor Secretary Blas F. Ople said the committee will also look into the employment contracts of overseas workers in order to give them the protection they need The creation of the committee was prompted by reports on rampant cases of exploitation of Filipino workers employed abroad and the widespread illegal hiring practices by agents and recruiters for overseas employment, Secretary Ople said. DEPARTMENT of Justice ruled that the death of a public officer will terminate an investigation or bar an impending investigation of unexplained wealth charges against him. Justice Secretary Vicente Abad Santos issued this opinion in reply to a request from the Complaints and Investigation Division in the Office of the President. He explained that accordingly, the provisions of the Revised Penal Code are supplementary to said law in the absence of any provision to the contrary. “And under Article 89 of the Revised Penal Code, criminal liability is totally extinguished by the death of the convict, as to the personal penalties, and as to the pecuniary liabilities, when the death of the offender occurs before final judgment,” the justice chief ruled. DIETETICS Association of the Philippines should expand its role out to the low-income communities and the remote barrios where malnourished children need most their service. Social Welfare Secretary Estefania Aldaba -Lim stressed this point before the association’s convention recently and said that dietetics must not be confined to hospitals, cafeterias, clinics, nursing schools or industrial concerns. It must expand itself as an organized public service, integrated into all levels of health care as well as social welfare. The DSW secretary also noted that the problem of malnutrition arises from the problem of population explosion in the country. Thus applies the simple mathematical proportion, that more births mean more mouths to feed and therefore lesser food. PHILIPPINE National Bank and other lending institutions have released some P191.5 million in crop loans to farmers under the Masagana 99 rice production drive as of July 19. This was announced by Agriculture Secretary Arturo Tanco , Jr. who said that an analysis of credit support in connection with Masagana 99 revealed a mounting nation wide acceptance by farmers of the program. Masagana 99 was launched by the President only two months ago. Loaning activities are expected to accelerate further this month and August because it is during this period when rice planting is at its peak.

[12] Official Gazette for July 25, 1973 : THE PRESIDENT has issued Presidential Decree No. 224 modifying the service area pattern authorized for departments and agencies setting up regional offices under the Integrated Reorganization Plan. Article I, Chapter 3, Part II of the IRP divides the country into 11 regions, with each region having a designated regional center and a specified area of jurisdiction. The amendatory decree places the province of Pangasinan and the cities of Dagupan and San Carlos under the jurisdiction of Region I (Ilocos Region), with the regional center at San Fernando, La Union. The reorganization plan had placed these territories under the jurisdiction of Region 3 (Central Luzon Region) with regional center at San Fernando/Pampanga. With this change, Region I is now composed of the provinces of Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, Abra, La Union, Benguet, Mt. Province and Pangasinan, and the cities of Baguio, Laoag, Dagupan and San Carlos. The areas remaining under Region 3 are the provinces of Tarlac, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Zam -bales, Bulacan and Bataan, and the cities of Angeles, Cabanatuan, Olongapo, Palayan and San Jose (in Nueva Ecija). THE PRESIDENT has promulgated Presidential Decree No. 253 which prohibits the sale, offer or the taking of intoxicating liquors and the holding of cockfights, boxing, horse races, jai-alai or similar sports on the day of the referendum, July 27. The decree which took effect last July 23, amends Sec. 17 of Presidential Decree No. 229 which provides for the manner of voting and canvassing of votes in barangays (citizens assemblies). DEPARTMENT of Health underlines the need to upgrade the professional status of X-Ray technologists to improve the standards of the growing number of radiation workers in the field of medicine, research and industry. In a speech before the members of the Philippine Association of Radiologic Technologists, Health Secretary Clemente S. Gatmaitan said that a committee has been formed to study and solve the problems of radiation workers. The upgrading of the X-Ray technologists’ lot has started with a crash training program last July 2 participated in by doctors and technicians from the different health regions. The health secretary said that the training of the technologists would eventually raise their salaries as well as their professional standards.

[13] Official Gazette for July 26, 1973: THE PRESIDENT presented the ancient Order of Sikatuna with the Rank of Datu to the outgoing ambassadors of two countries to the Philippines. The Order of Sikatuna was conferred by the President on Ambassador Adel Abdel Hamid Fadel of the Arab Republic of Egypt and Ambassador Luigi Martelli of the Republic of Italy. The President presented the awards in recognition of the services of the two ambassadors in the field of international relations and for their constant endeavors to foster close relations between their respective countries and the Philippines, and closer understanding through mutually beneficial means between their peoples and the Filipino people. THE PRESIDENT has issued Presidential Decree No. 235 adding two more branches to the lone branch of the city court of Dagupan to ease the congestion of cases in the area. The decree, which amends Republic Act No. 170, otherwise known as the Charter of the City of Dagupan, notes that there are some 3,500 cases pending at present at the Dagupan City Court. In case of absence, incapacity or incapability of the regular city judges, the auxiliary city judge, or if for some reasons two or more regular judges could not perform their duties, the Supreme Court shall designate the judge of any of the municipalities adjoining Dagupan City to preside over the branch, of the city court of the absent or incapacitated judge. This designated judge shall hold office temporarily until the regular incumbent or the auxiliary judge shall have resumed office or until another judge shall have been appointed. The municipal judge so designated shall receive his salary as municipal judge plus 70 per cent of the salary of the municipal judge whose office he has temporarily assumed. THE PRESIDENT has acted to ensure the availability in the domestic market of highly-exportable products which have gained wide acceptance in the international market, particularly copra, cement and plywood. In a directive to Secretary of Trade Troadio T. Quiazon Jr., the President sought strict compliance of the 10 per cent retention of export products to meet the domestic requirements. The President likewise directed the trade secretary to determine the volume of the products being exported, among them food items, copra and lumber with a view to formulating a policy that would ensure an adequate domestic supply of these pro ducts to avoid shortage in domestic requirements. INVESTMENTS in the country reached P5.2 billion during the 1972-73 Fiscal Year, topping the previous year’s total by P400 million. Commerce Director Epifanio Castillejos in his report to Secretary Troadio T. Quiazon Jr., attributed the rise in investments to the confidence of business on the present leadership. In his report, Director Castillejos said the Bureau of Commerce registered: 1) 19,942 new business with a total investment of P2.8 billion compared to 12,119—P2.4 billion; 2) 5,011 business name renewals involving P2.3 billion compared to 3,591—P2,28 billion; 3) 135 private merchants with capital worth P5.3 million compared to 65—P700.000; 4) 359 bulk sales instruments valued at P14.7 million compared to 202—P14.2 million; 5) 1,264 Filipino retailers who registered under Republic Act 1292, with a total capital of P11.1 million; compared to 801—P6.6 million. BUREAU of Customs released the guidelines in the imposition of surcharge on importations that had been undervalued, misdescribed, misclassified or misdeclared as defined by Section 2503 of the new Tariff and Customs Code. Customs Commissioner Rolando G. Geotina said that the guideline will take effect August 1, 1973 and is being issued to ensure an effective and uniform application of the penalties imposed by law in such cases. The Commissioner however pointed out that the customs guideline does not apply in cases where the misdeclaration, undervaluation, misdescription or misclassification was intentionally done nor will good faith on the part of the importer/broker be a valid defense.

[14] Official Gazette for July 27, 1973: THE PRESIDENT issued General Order No. 34 calling upon all residential and commercial lot owners to utilize their idle, undeveloped lots; by cultivating them for the production of rootcrops and vegetables in line with the Government’s program to increase food production. The owners of such lands have been given until July 30 within which to cultivate their properties. Failure to do so would entitle adjoining residents or individuals to utilize the empty lots with the express consent of the owners, if they are in the area, or their implied consent, if they cannot be located. THE PRESIDENT issued Presidential Decree No. 256 allowing any barangay member who, on Referendum Day (July 27-28), in spite of diligent efforts and through no fault of his own could not locate his Barangay Center, to vote in the Barangay Center nearest his residence. The same decree allows any registered barangay member who, on Referendum Day, is staying for any reason in a city, municipality, or municipal district outside of the province where he is registered, to cast his vote in the Barangay Center nearest the place where he is temporarily staying. THE PRESIDENT extended the period of voting in the referendum to Saturday, from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., “to give the people the fullest opportunity to express their views on the issues to be presented to them in the referendum.” The President in Presidential Decree No. 254 also extended the period of canvass of votes “until such time as the Commission on Elections may deem it necessary to complete the same.” In this connection, the President issued General Order No. 35 extending the suspension of the curfew up to 4 a.m. Sunday (July 29). The President in Proclamation No. 1169 also declared Saturday (July 28) a special public holiday. SOME 396 rural banks have released a total of P84.7 million for the Masagana 99 rice production program. The amount was loaned out to 90,772 farmers tilling an area of 155,180 hectares under the Government’s rice production program. This was the report received by Central Bank Governor Gregorio S. Licaros from the CB department of rural banks and savings and loan associations. An additional P4.1 million in similar loans has been approved but still pending release to borrowers. Total loans released so far represent about 70 per cent of the funds made available to the rural banks by the Central Bank for the Masagana program, the report said. Of the P84.7 million total, 56 per cent was reportedly released to Central Luzon farmers; 13 per cent to Western Visayas; and 11 per cent to Southern Luzon; or a total of 80 per cent for the three regions. BUREAU of Customs informed the President that customs collections for Fiscal Year 1972-73 registered a record high of P2,101,930,949.89, surpassing the P2 billion target by almost P102 million. In a report to the President, Commissioner Rolando G. Geotina said the target for the current Fiscal Year (1973-74) is P3 billion of which P2.5 billion will come from duties and taxes and P.5 billion from the export tax. DEPARTMENT of Trade set a 50-50 per cent export and domestic control of rattan ( palasan ) poles. Secretary of Trade Troadio T. Quiazon Jr., took this move after ascertaining the maximum domestic requirements of the manufacturing sector. This means that 50 per cent of the rattan’s total production will be for export while another 50 per cent will be for domestic consumption. Local users and exporters of rattan poles will be required to submit to the Department their requirements according to grades and measurements as embodied in Standards Administrative Order No. 103 and the corresponding export application form. Furthermore, exporters and domestic end-users will be required to submit authenticated export contracts and purchase orders, respectively, to determine the approximate volume of rattan poles necessary to fulfill their obligations in the export market and the local manufacturing sector. DEPARTMENT of Health has launched a family planning program among hansenites in various leprosaria to curb leprosy incidence among them. One aspect of the program is the holding of refresher course workshops that involves authorities of leprosy and the patients. Health Secretary Clemente S. Gatmaitan said in the closing ceremonies of the workshop that family planning is, one of the department’s major programs and that it is a humane approach to the country’s excessive population growth particularly among hansenites . The health secretary stressed that the family planning project among lepers in the different leprosaria is intended to reduce birth among those afflicted with the disease and thus reduce leprosy incidence.

[15] Official Gazette for July 28, 1973: THE GOVERNMENT has harnessed the assistance of various trade and industrial associations in strengthening the country’s export promotion campaign. The Department of Trade required various trade and manufacturing chambers to update the list of members in order to strengthen the overall export promotion drive. Secretary of Trade Troadio T. Quiazon Jr., said that aside from strengthening the country’s export promotion drive, the compilation will serve as ready reference and guidance of the department and its corps of commercial attaches. COORDINATING Committee for Manpower Development (COCOMAND) has been created to assist in the setting up of national trade standards and establish closer dialogue between the public and private training institutions. The COCOMAND, which is composed of different government and private agencies involved in manpower development is headed by National ^Manpower and Youth Council Director General Rony Diaz. The agency also intends to initiate and maintain an inventory of training facilities and a directory of instructors and training institution in the country. PACKAGING industry has been urged to adopt modern techniques and processes of packaging products to make them more competitive in the world market. Secretary of Trade Troadio T. Quiazon Jr., made the appeal before a meeting of the Packaging Institute of the Philippines in Makati. Emphasizing the need for adopting more modern techniques and processes in the packaging industry, Mr. Quiazon said the demands of competition both here and abroad dictate that this particular sector cannot afford to lose out in the market simply because of poor packaging. For this reason the secretary said the packing function now must be approached in the growth sense, that is, it must develop just as rapidly as new products are developed. THE PRESIDENT has called on the owners of undeveloped or idle lots throughout the country these lots pursuant to the Government s food sufficiency program. In line with this, the Bureau of Plant Industry has been issuing pointers on the proper methods of vegetable and root crop planting. According to the BPL among the locally grown tubers, ubi is one of the most important crops in the country. Ubi has 21 per cent starch content and has been found to be a good source of Vitamins B and C. It can be planted any time of the year. However, planting during the wet season gives a more uniform growth and lessens the cost of weeding. Ubi thrives at low to medium altitudes.

[16] Official Gazette for July 29, 1973: THE PRESIDENT has issued Presidential Decree No. 251 which amends Republic Act No. 3844, otherwise known as the “Code of Agrarian Reform in the Philippines,” by making the Land Bank, established under the Code an effective and adequate financial institution in the immediate implementation of agrarian reforms envisioned under Presidential Decree Nos. 27 and 85 dated October 21, 1972 and December 25, 1972, respectively. THE PRESIDENT was informed by another group of travel officials of their readiness to develop tourist sports and to open travel offices here in view of the tremendous tourism potentials enhanced by the improved social and economic development in the country. The group, headed by Gilbert Trigano , president of Club Mediterranee , told the President that its members will be very happy to come to the Philippines “where we can imagine plans that could compete with Hongkong and all the surrounding places for tourists.” The President advised the group to submit its proposals, and directed Secretary of Tourism Jose D. Aspiras , who accompanied the group to Malacañang, to look into them. SECRETARY of Information Francisco S. Tatad welcomed in behalf of the President the educational ship M/V Logos now docked at Pier 15 on its second visit to the Philippines. Speaking to the crew and guests at the ship’s dining hall, the secretary said that in the Philippines “we agree with the concept of this gathering of people from various parts of the world who live a life of friendship, love and brotherhood.” Secretary Tatad said he is happy the Logos is now making its second visit to the country “so that you could make a part of your experience what is happening here under the New Society.”

[17] Official Gazette for July 30, 1973: THE PRESIDENT conferred the Philippine Legion of Honor, degree of commander, on General Lai Ming-tang, for meritorious and valuable services rendered to the Republic of the Philippines. General Lai, who was an official guest of the Philippine government, is the chief of the general staff, Ministry of National Defense, Republic of China. The President pointed out that because of General Lai’s contributions to Philippine security, the general has not only endeared himself to the Filipino people but also helped strengthen the existing bonds of friendship and cooperation between his country and the Philippines. In accepting the award, General Lai pledged to continue helping strengthen the cooperation between his country’s armed forces and the AFP. THE PRESIDENT reasserted his policy of concentrating the limited resources of the government on priority projects that would contribute directly to the economic development of the country. The occasion was the send-off luncheon given by the President and the First Lady at Malacañang, honoring members of the Comprehensive Employment Strategy Mission of the International Labor Organization, which spent two months here reviewing and reassessing the Philippine economy from the standpoint of employment and development. In behalf of the Filipino people, the President thanked the mission for helping pinpoint “where our orientation was wrong, where our efforts had failed,” and to assist the country, “build a strong, viable and independent society.” HEALTH authorities announced that 27 government physicians with various specialties like pediatrics, traumatology, radiology, and surgery are now training at different hospitals in Manila and the Southern Islands Hospital in Cebu City. Secretary of Health Clemente S. Gatmaitan said that this scheduled training is part of the continuing program for training of the different categories and specialties of health department personnel. The hospital training centers are the Dr. Jose R. Reyes Memorial Hospital, National Children’s Hospital, National Orthopedic Hospital, Rizal Provincial Hospital, and Southern Islands Hospital. THE PHILIPPINES has been selected as the official base of operations of the Tasking group of companies, one of Hongkong’s biggest industrial aggrupations . .Among the latest international corporations moving their headquarters from the Crown Colony to the Philippines, the group will go into other investment projects aside from the manufacture of golf clubs, hardware tools, padlocks, bicycles and parts and strollers for children. The transfer was announced by Secretary of Trade Troadio T. Quiazon Jr., following an official report from a Filipino businessman, who will go on a joint partnership with the Hongkong multinational.

[18] Official Gazette for July 31, 1973: THE PRESIDENT approved for implementation the second study of the United Nations Development Programme and the International Atomic Energy Agency for the establishment of the first nuclear-powered plant in the Philippines. The study envisions a 600 megawatt nuclear plant which will cost about S250 million to construct over a nine-year period. The President directed the government officials concerned to get together with the secretary of finance in order to look for funding, and also to conduct further feasibility studies in comparison with hydroelectric or geothermal powered plants of similar size. THE PRESIDENT issued a decree creating the PEFTOK Investment and Development Corp. and allocating the P2.2 million appropriated by past Congresses for the Philippine Expeditionary Force to Korea but which remained intact in the national treasury. In creating the PEFTOK firm and authorizing it to use the fund for economic activity, the President defined the government policy of extending to the veterans not only promises or ribbons and medals but also means to improve their condition in life. In organizing the PEFTOK Investment and Development Corp., the PEFTOK Board of Directors hopes to embark on various projects with emphasis on housing. THE PRESIDENT received Mohammed Isnaeni , deputy speaker of the Indonesian Parliament, who made a courtesy call at Malacañang shortly before leaving for Jakarta. Mr. Isnaeni congratulated the President for his efforts to push through the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, of which Indonesia and the Philippines are members, together with Malaysia, Thailand and Singapore. Mr. Isnaeni said that he was very much impressed by the changes in the Philippines in contrast to what he observed in Hongkong. The President said Indonesia and the Philippines are moving forward but that Indonesia is still the base and anchor of Southeast Asia.