GOV'T SETS ASIDE P370M FOR INFO ON CRIME GANGS

THE GOVERNMENT has allotted 370 million pesos in reward money for
information that would lead to the arrest of illegal-drug and
kidnap-for-ransom syndicates.

"We are determined to stamp out the operations of these criminal
syndicates and each of us must join and support the government's war
against them," President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on Saturday said in a
brief message during the birthday celebration of former Bulacan
Representative Ricardo Silverio in San Rafael town, Bulacan province.

Ms Macapagal said the reward system hopes to encourage citizens to
participate in stopping kidnapping incidents and the illegal drug trade.

Silverio's supporters, most of whom wore shirts saying "We Love You
GMA," welcomed the President at the former congressman's residence.

On Monday, Ms Macapagal will launch "The Nation's Outrage Against Drugs: Saving
This Generation (Himagsik)" anti-illegal drugs program at the Liwasang Bonifacio
in Manila. She will be joined by representatives from the youth, sports and
religious sectors as well as civil society. There will be simultaneous launching
ceremonies at the City Park in Davao City, Fuente Osmena in Cebu City and
Burnham Park in Baguio City at 4:30 p.m.

The Himagsik launch will be graced by boxing champion Manny Pacquiao,
billiards legend Efren "Bata" Reyes, Philippine Basketball Association
cagers and other sports personalities who will exhort the youth to
junk drugs in favor of sports.

Singers and other show biz personalities have also been invited to
join the President at the launch.

Under the long-term goals of Himagsik, law enforcement agencies will
sign a manifesto of commitment with the different sectors to come up
with alternative projects for the youth in sports, the arts,
environment and other volunteer work to steer them away from drug use.