DRILON GETS FREEDOM FLAME FOR SIN TAX

Senator Franklin Drilon, who shepherded the passage of the sin tax reform bill in the Senate, is being awarded the Freedom Flame for his efforts in pushing for one of President Aquino's urgent bills.

The Freedom Flame is a recognition given to outstanding personalities who played significant roles in this year's milestones, in events that led to allowing Filipinos better experience freedom in the country.

"It's an honor that our efforts as a legislator are gaining positive remarks among our fellow leaders. But I really believe I have only done my obligation to our countrymen: to give them the chance to live a healthier and longer life; and the passage of the sin tax reform bill is one big step to achieve it," said Drilon.

The awarding ceremony will be held on Tuesday, 04 December 2012, 7 p.m. at Hotel H20 in Luneta, Manila. The event will gather six other Freedom Flame recipients: Secretary Neric Acosta and Noel Cabangon (environment), Secretary Teresita 'Ging' Deles (Bangsamoro peace agreement), Rep. Erin Tañada (Freedom of Information), Rep. Niel Tupas and Marites Vitug (chief justice impeachment). Atty. Leni, Aika, Tricia and Jillian will also be given the flame for their courage in this difficult year, and for being beacons of hope for Filipinos who wish for better governance.

"I am honored to be one of the recipients of the Freedom Flame. As journalists, upholding freedom and pushing its limits are among the hallmarks of our profession. Together with my colleagues, I will always strive to fight for a free press and, whenever threatened, defend it," said Vitug. The event is organized by the Friedrich Naumann Foundation for Freedom (FNF), a German liberal foundation.