EDITORIAL

Developing Groundwater

To respond to the call to pursue effective and efficient water use and to mitigate the effects of climate change, the Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM) held a consultation workshop on the conduct of "Farmer Water School" (FWS).

This FWS aims to "Enhancing Agricultural Production By Sustainable Use of Shallow Ground-water". The consultation training is being held through the Australian Center For International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) funded project.

The training was started in January 2009 with participants of farmers from Burgos and Pasaquin, Ilocos Norte. It will end in June 2009.

According to Dr. Silverio Q. Tejada, executive director of the BSWM, the project seeks to impart practical knowledge and skills to farmers to estimate groundwater balance that will serve as basis to make critical and wise decision through crop planning.

This process of estimating groundwater balance is highly technical that requires basic knowledge to arrive at informed decision. This requires also keen observation on the part of the farmers.

According to Tejada, BSWM signed an agreement with the farmers of Ilocos Norte to pursue this joint Farmer Water School.

The FWS trainers are the 22 agricultural technologists who attended and passed the BSWM trainers’ training.

In Aklan, surface waters in its river system are just free flowing direct to the sea. It is being used as passage of bamboos from Libacao and Madalag destined for Kalibo. Sometimes, logs float, drain on water to Kalibo or Ibajay. Sometimes, children and even adults who enjoy in the rivers are drowned. Actually, waters in Aklan’s river system are yet to find its place in agricultural production. If these waters are only harnessed for farm production, agricultural products such as rice and vegetable will be available at cheaper cost and of high quality.

In Aklan, ground-water is pumped out by some individual houses for its domestic use. Metro Kalibo Water District pumps out the ground-water in Banga and Kalibo for distribution to its water concessionaires in Kalibo, New Washington, Balete and Banga at P34 per cubic meter. Also, Numancia Water District pumps out ground water in Numancia and distributes it at P24 per cubic meter to its water concessionaires.

Considering that rice is a water loving plant, it requires 5,000 kilograms of water to produce one kilogram palay, it must command and be bought much higher than the NFA buying price.

On the other hand, water districts in Aklan may review its costing in water pumping and distribution to arrive at a cost mutually beneficial to both water districts and water concessionaires.

With this, BSWM – Ilocos Norte agreement on the use of shallow groundwater project, there is urgent call for collective action towards groundwater management to review now to preserve water for the future generation.

Aklan cannot allow its groundwater and river water unutilized and unpreserved.

High Value Crops Commercialization

The local governments of Ormoc City and Biliran Province on one hand and the Bureau of Agricultural Research (BAR) on the other, agreed on a joint project to promote the production and commer-cialization of high value crops such various kinds of vegetables.

Ms. Imelda T. Remollo, City Agriculturist of Ormoc City leads the project with the members of the Ormoc Federation of Vegetable Growers as farmers cooperators/beneficiaries. The project aims to grow and produce vegetables for export to Tacloban and Cebu Cities.

The vegetable farmers federation is composed of 76 farmers from 21 barangays whose seed needs are provided by East West Seed Company such as tomato, eggplant and sweet pepper.

The same project is being followed in Biliran province under the leadership of the Provincial Agriculturist of Biliran.

This vegetable projects consist of three components which are: 1. establishment of vegetable nursery as source of planting materials, 2. the production of teaching materials, and 3. periodic evaluation of the project with the guidance of BAR.

May this project be duplicated in Aklan for the production of vegetables to supply the food needs of Boracay Island resort and the need of the Ati-Atihan town of Kalibo. This is assistance to farmers not yet available to them.

The municipality of Libacao is proven to successfully produce cauliflower, cabbage and asparagus. Boracay may become gold mine of Libacaonons should farmers there produce vegetable in commercial quantity, Libacao is seldom visited by typhoon and flood. Vegetable production is ideal. /MP

Entrepreneurial Farmer

Ambrosio R. Villorente

The Absence of Empathy

Akelco Andagao office was tightly closed after lunch on Tuesday, March 24. According to the security guard on duty, all the employees left the office to attend a sports fest.

Those Akelco con-sumer–members wasted their transportation money, time, and effort in going to the office to pay their respective electric bills. And there were hundreds of them.

One must get acquainted with the culture of Akelco. It appears to Akelco management that customers are wrong and the seller is right. Customers were wrong because they went to Akelco Andagao to pay their bills on a wrong time when its employees were attending a sports fest in Lezo, Aklan.

Yes, they left the office without prior notice and its customers went to its office to pay their bills wasting time, wasting money, and wasting effort.

To Akelco manage-ment team, the term "Empathy" is meaningless. The Akelco Management team is devoid of the ability to share in another’s emotions or feelings. It cannot project one’s own personality into an object. Akelco management team cannot and has no projection of one’s own personality into the personality of its clients in order to understand them better.

Therefore, their personnel padlocked their office, went to attend a sports fest without feeling what will their clients feel, who upon arrival at Akelco office to transact business finds out to their dismay the office is closed during office hours, hence "No Deal".

Where Are They?

Monday, March 23, Aklan celebrated the 112th Martyrdom Anniversary of Gen. Francisco Del Castillo and the 19 Martyrs of Aklan. This is an annual celebration in a fixed date, March 23.

However, the big and top guns of Aklan were absent. Cong. Florencio T. Miraflores in the comme-morative program was scheduled to deliver a message. However, his message was delivered by former Congressman of Aklan, Atty. Allen S. Quimpo. They asked, where is Cong. Florencio T. Miraflores?

Aklan Gov. Carlito S. Marquez and Vice Governor Gabrielle V. Calizo were also scheduled to raise the Provincial Banner. But they were absent too. They asked, where are they? Someone did the raising of the Provincial Banner for them.

Like Cong. Miraflores who was scheduled to deliver a message, Gov. Marquez was represented by Hon. Selwyn Ibarreta, Aklan SP member who delivered the message in Gov. Marquez’ behalf.

During the occasion when the people’s heroes and patriots are commemorated, the present leaders must lead the honors in celebrating their memories and patriotic deeds. Our heroes and patriots are the role models of the present generation and to those who will follow.

P55 Million Loan

Finally, the urgent request of Governor Carlito S. Marquez for an authority to enter into a loan agreement with Land Bank of the Philippines amounting to P55 million to finance the construction of the Calangcang Sports Complex, Calangcang, Makato, Aklan and to sign all documents pertaining to the loan" was approved.

It was approved during a special session of the Aklan Sangguniang Panlalawigan held in the morning of Tuesday, March 24. The session was presided by Hon. Gerick Templonuevo. The money will be spent for the construction of rubberized track oval at 35 million pesos, and for the construction of the main grandstand and completion of olympic size swimming pool at 20 million pesos.

This amount of money if spent for the project will not be recovered in cash. However, the tremendous return will come in the form of good boys and girls developed into useful, productive and upright citizens of Aklan through sports development. It will shape healthy, young Aklanon leaders who will be living in honesty, dignity, in peace and contentment.

The rate of return of that sports complex is unquantifiable, but will produce leaders through sports, one process to develop a behaved man, man who can persevere, of high tolerance, endurance, and patience.

One must remember that the construction, operation, maintenance and utilization of the Calangcang Sports Complex is to develop a "complete man". That is different from others like the Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City which was constructed and being operated to make business, to earn profit out of investment. /MP

Kapehan Sa Aklan Celebrates 1st Anniversary

Aklan Tri-Media celebrated the 1st anniversary of the Kapehan Sa Aklan in a simple ceremony held on Monday morning, March 23. It was one of the highlights of the 112th anniversary of the Martyrdom of the 19 Martyrs of Aklan.

Atty. Allen S. Quimpo, president of Northwestern Visayan Colleges, former Congressman and Mayor of Kalibo spoke eloquently of the Kapehan performance for the past year. Dr. Benny Palma, president of Aklan State University discussed the role of the Kapehan in the conduct of research, information technology dissemination, populari-zation, and utilization of the product of research specially in agriculture.

Atty. Ronquillo C. Tolentino, historian, former Vice Governor of Aklan, and practicing lawyer extended his sincere congratulation to the Aklan tri-media members and their respective media outfits for their active participation and coope-ration to the Saturday Kapehan Sa Aklan.

Members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Aklan Hon. Selwyn Ibarreta, Hon. Plaridel M. Morania, and Hon. Rodson Mayor and Kalibo SB member Lilia Quimpo Tirol were unanimous in their short remarks of the great influence of the Kapehan in their functions as local legislators.

Dr. Ambrosio R. Villorente, president of Aklan Press Club. Inc. in behalf of Mr. Juan P. Dayang, president of Publishers Association of the Philippines gave the welcome remarks.

These representatives of the tri-media outfits committed, in their respective remarks, to continue supporting sincerely the Kapehan Sa Aklan.

Kaibahang Conrad Indelible spoke for RGMA–DYRU Super Radyo; Sumra Dela Cruz – Rojo for Aklan Reporter; Hon. Jerome Vega for RMN-DYKR; Erel Ibardolaza for DYIN–Bombo Radyo; Roben Laserna for CBIS Hot FM, George Cawaling for i–Travel Magazine; Boy Ryan B. Zabal of Panay News; Arnel Arieta of Boracay Radyo; and Jun Ariolo Aguirre of Hala Birada among others.

Kapehan Sa Aklan was launched one year ago on March 23, 2008 with Mr. Roy Mabasa–president, National Press Club, and Candaba, Pampanga Mayor Jerry Pelayo as guests of honor.

On its second year Aklan Media Forum, PAPI and Aklan Press Club, Inc.
had committed themselves to continue the works started. It has vowed to perform its role as a real fourth estate. /MP

Aklan Honors Heroes and Patriots

Re-enactment of the martyrdom and patriotism of Gen. Francisco Del Castillo

and the XIX Martyrs of Aklan

The Province of Aklan and the Ati-Atihan Town of Kalibo "profoundly com-memorated the 112th Martyrdom Anniversary of Gen. Francisco Del Castillo and the 19 Martyrs of Aklan on March 23.

Early in the morning of Monday, March 23, tolling of church bells in all the Catholic churches in Aklan was done. A mass offering for the 19 Martyrs and Patriots of Aklan was held in Saint John the Baptist Cathedral, Kalibo.
After the Holy Mass, there were floral offerings in the monuments of Dr. Jose Rizal, Andres Bonifacio, Pastor Martelino, Gil Mijares, Death Markers of Francisco Del Castillo and the 19 Martyrs.

The Civic Military Parade followed composed of five (5) groups of 113 contingents. The parade, one of the longest, lasted for two hours.

The commemorative program followed after the parade where the bravery and heroism of the 19 Martyrs, Gen. Castillo and other Aklan Patriots were extolled highly deserving of utmost respect and emulation.
Kalibo Mayor Raymar A. Rebaldo delivered his words of welcome to the guests, descendants of the 19 Martyrs, and visitors.

Former Congressman of Aklan, Atty. Allen S. Quimpo delivered, in behalf of Cong. Florencio T. Miraflores, his message who was unable to attend the celebration. Likewise, Hon. Selwyn Ibarreta delivered, in behalf of Aklan Provincial Gov. Carlito S. Marquez, who was also unable to attend the Commemorative Program.

Vice Governor Gabrielle V. Calizo who was to raise the Provincial banner with Gov. Marquez was also unable to attend.

The invited Comme-morative Speaker, Hon. Cerge M. Remonde, Press Secretary has also failed to honor the invitation. Remonde was quite busy in Malacañang because of the arrival and visit of Hon. Tony Blair, former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.

The 12th IB, 3rd ID, Philippine Army fired the 21 gun salutes while the Explorer Club of Kalibo played the Taps.

Vice Mayor Nilda B. Tambong of Kalibo delivered the words of thanks. Hon. Jay E. Tejada and Ms. Adorada T. Reynaldo were the commemorative hosts of the program. /MP

RC Kalibo Donates Books For Reading Enhancement Project

by Dobie P. Parohinog, PhD

The Reading Enhancement Project of Bulwang Elem. School, Bulwang, Numancia is highly enriched by the book donation of Rotary couple – Frank and Tess Kennedy. Picture above shows (l to r) standing: PP More Morrier, VP Pete Ruiz, Dr. Dobie P. Parohinog, Rtn. Efren Abayon, PP Panski Rebuelta, Pres. Megs Lunn, Rtn. Tess Kennedy, Rtn. Frank Kennedy, PP Berting Nakaya, and Ms. Nenita Cabangon. Children in front are beneficiaries of the Reading Enhancement Project.

The Rotary Club of Kalibo spearheaded by President Megs Lunn donated books for the pupils of Bulwang Elementary School, District of Numancia, Aklan on March 10, 2009 at the School Cultural Hall.

Aside from the 662 different titles of books, 246 pieces of notebook, and 240 pieces of HB pencil, No. 2 which are materials needed for the school’s Reading Enhancement Project were turned over to the school. The donation was made to improve the reading level of the in-school children for calendar year 2008 to 2011.

The generous couple, Frank and Teresita Kennedy of Canada facilitated the donation. They managed the materials procurement, distribution and orientation activities during the assembly of teachers, parents, and pupils with emphasis on effective reading program with the full support of parents and teachers.

Frank further portrayed his true experience in improving the reading level of students in his schools in Canada as Education Supervisor. He stressed the importance of reading skill for employment oppor-tunities, private enterprise, social and cultural activities, technological development and research, which have significant value to a successful career and family well-being.

Frank and Tess are both members of the Rotary Club of Kalibo who are now residents of Mabilo, Kalibo. They are educators in profession who advocate vehemently to parents and teachers to study. "Today, proper education is comparable to gold which is a precious gift of God to a person. A good reader will have ample information of what is going on with our present economy, of the different lifestyles of the people around the world, of the causes and effects of climate change, and other vital issues affecting the lives of the people," Frank pointed out. "Good readers are those with high scores in the academic tests which will lead them to be successful individuals", Tess also added.

Mrs. Teresita Kennedy hails from Barangay Mabilo, Kalibo, Aklan. She was formerly employed as a public school teacher of the Division of Aklan before she got married to a Canadian, Frank Kennedy. They set up a family in Canada. She is an active Rotary member and an ideal partner to Frank. /MP

UP Study Shows Villar Top Presidentiable

Sen. Manny Villar last week welcomed the results of the survey conducted by University of the Philippines students showing him as the top presidential contender in the May 2010 polls with majority of the respondents saying they will vote for him as president. "This kind of recognition from the people could only inspire us to do more," Villar said.

Villar is particularly happy with the result of the study showing wide reception and acceptance of the values of "sipag at tiyaga", with majority of respondents saying his slogan of sipag at tiyaga and advocacy to help improve the condition of overseas Filipino workers are ‘desirable.’

"We started infor-mation campaign so that people will know the story of ordinary people who succeeded to make it big because of industry and patience. It only means that our message of sipag at tiyaga as values necessary for the country’s progress has resonated well with our kababayans," he said.

The study titled "Impression: The Impor-tance of Media Presence On The Bid For The 2010 National Elections," focused on perceptions on the media presence of possible presidentiables and vice presidentiables in the 2010 elections.

It was conducted by Communication Research 165 (Data Interpretation and Gathering) students of UP under the supervision of Dr. Jose Lacson, Jr. and Prof. Almond Pilar Aguila. Data gathering was done from November to December 2008 with 10 focus group discussions composed of six to eight participants. A survey was also done on respondents who live in Manila , Rizal, Laguna, Cavite , Batangas, Quezon, Camarines Sur, Bulacan, Tarlac and Pampanga.

The UP Communi-cation Research Depart-ment was named as a Center for Excellence by the Commission on Higher Education. It holds annual research on relevant communication issues such as news perception and reception.

The study showed that 15 percent of the respondents will vote for Villar, followed by Sen. Francis Escudero at 10 percent. Escudero and Sen. Loren Legarda were also chosen by majority of the respondents as their choice for vice president, with 8 percent.

In the same study, Villar emerged as the most popular potential candidate with 79 percent of respondents saying he may run for office in 2010.

Following him were Sen. Loren legarda who got 48 percent, Vice Pres. Noli de Castro with 45 percent, Senator Mar Roxas–34 percent, Bayani Fernando–26 percent, Sen. Panfilo Lacson–25 percent, Escudero–22 percent, former Pres. Joseph Estrada–16 percent, Jejomar Binay–12 percent, and Pres. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo–6 percent. /MP

Real Estate Properties Public Auction Starts Soon

by ERNESTO T. SOLIDUM

An estimated P140 million collection from real estate taxes is expected in Aklan this year.

OIC Provincial Treasurer Ms. Suzette Pioquid is very optimistic to collect this amount out of the payment of real property taxes. This is 2.3 percent more than the 2008 performance record of P136,682,709.

Mr. Rey Villaruel, Actg. Asst. Provincial Treasurer disclosed that with the access to updated individual profiling of real property tax assessment record and the systematic information dissemination to be done by the LGU’s and DepEd officials, high compliance among taxpayers can be realized.

Governor Carlito S. Marquez is rallying for public support in respon-sible payment by real property owners even as incentives for condonation of charges, interest and penalties for the previous five years has ended. Based on actual data, only five percent of tax delinquents have availed of Provincial Ordinance No. 02-02008. Carrot and stick incentive were offered once during the incumbency of Gov. Corazon L. Cabagnot and twice with Gov. Carlito S. Marquez. Dismal perfor-mance proved that local taxpayers are inept and indifferent despite that taxes are plowed back to socio-economic develop-ment projects.

Tax payment constitutes two percent of assessed value of real estate property including improvement where one percent is earmarked for local School Board. For the current year, a more drastic action will be implemented to goad delinquent taxpayers to seriously comply with their financial obligations to the province. Starting April and every quarter thereafter, public auction of real estate properties will be conducted. This has full support of local chief executives because 65 percent of tax collection go to municipalities while 35 percent is retained by the Provincial Treasury. The barangays share 25 percent of the 65 percent of the municipal share.

Improved perfor-mance efficiency in tax collection started during the tenure of Mr. Evan Timtiman in 2006 as provincial treasurer where intensive tax mapping assessment was conducted in all 17 municipalities. Data were the basis for computing realistic targets instead of using 10 percent baseline annual target increase.

Government response of extending amnesty to delinquent taxpayers is concededly a glove in hand approach which stifles public interest and reward violators. Individual aware-ness of fiscal responsibility is vital to the implemen-tation of prioritized government programs particularly tourism and agriculture. Total budget of P1 million is earmarked for information dissemination both in print and broadcast media this year. /MP

DENR Aklan Modest Accomplishment

by ERNESTO T. SOLIDUM

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the primary agency responsible for the conservation, management, development and proper use of the country’s environment and natural resources had modest accomplishments despite setbacks in manpower mobilization and logistics.

DENR had successfully completed contractual planting of commercial tree species that include bamboo and rattan in critical watersheds, its 2008 Annual Report stated. Naba-oy which supplies potable water to Boracay Island and barangays of Argao, Caticlan, Cubay Norte and Sur totaled 500 hectares planted; funded at P6.4 M. Panakuyan river which water resource provides irrigation water to Ibajay’s riceland of 620 hectares funded for P18.5 million was done. The non government organization, particularly the 11 farmers’ cooperatives associations, one barangay council and two families had their funds released over the last three years which generated 1,279 jobs.

In its forest management sector, 10 hectares of forest tree plantation were undertaken by two family contractors in Makato. Plantation maintenance and protection were done on 127 hectares in Ibajay, Makato, Tangalan, Nabas, and Malay. On seedling production, CENRO Kalibo produced a total of 11,390 seedlings of narra, mountain agoho, acacia auriculiformis, acacia manguim, talisay and mangrove species. DENR Aklan classified lands of more than 18 percent slope totalling 87,258 hectares. Lands of more than 18 percent slope in Aklan totaled 87,258 hectares Considering its size, nine Forest Rangers are deputized to coordinate with LGU’s barangay officials and stakeholders in its law enforcement and regulatory activities.

OIC CENRO Chief Baltazar M. Gerardo is very particular about forest protection and law enforcement. His personnel confiscated 3,804 board feet of lumber, one chainsaw and eight finished products made of narra. Inventory of drifted lumber in towns of Ibajay and Libacao during typhoon Frank yielded 1,992 cubic meters, subsequently donated to the said towns.
DENR Aklan gave agro forestry development emphasis. A total of 20 hectares was developed in Rosal, Logtoca and Manika Green Savers Federation, Inc.

Choice fruit trees like lanzones and rambutan are intercropped with forest plantation to provide better livelihood and nutrition to stakeholders.

In its land management service, 266 patents were distributed to 438 bene-ficiaries in a program dubbed as "Handog Titulo Mula sa Puso ng DENR". Revenue generated totaled P564,908 from sales of residential area, application fees, cadastral costs, rents, and others.

With the growing emphasis on eco-tourism, Regional Executive Director Ricardo L. Calderon issued Memo Order No. 2009–04 dated Feb. 10, 2009 to establish CENRO Boracay that will cover Boracay Island and its vicinities namely: Malay, Buruanga, Nabas, Ibajay, and Tangalan. The main office shall be located at Balabag, Malay, Aklan.

Some 30 personnel from CENRO Aklan have been transferred to its temporary headquarters at the town hall of Nabas. Immediate concern addressed to is the cons-truction of permanent office, environmental protection of degraded forest cover, mangrove establishment, solid waste management, and wildlife conservation particularly the Northwest Panay Peninsula Natural Park which covers 25,461 hectares. /MP

1,000 PRODUCTS RECALLED

Is Your Peanut Butter Safe?

by ALEX P. VIDAL

Eight died and more than 500 people in 43 states, including Illinois have been reportedly affected after taking salmonella-con-taminated peanut butter products traced to have come from a peanut corporation plant with sanitation lapses.

Chicago Tribune confirmed that the Peanut Corp. of America plant is now the target of a federal criminal investigation over the food catastrophe even as the federal government had announced more than 100 recalls covering more than 1,000 products, from ice cream and candy bars to frozen Thai dinners and dog snacks.

The US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) said several companies such as Sara Lee, North American Foodservice of Downers Grove and Walgreens of Deerfield have recalled products. Sarah Lee recalled Chef Pierre Chocolate Peanut Butter Silk Pie while Walgreens recalled four kinds of Walgreen-brand candy and four types of Cafe W-brand trail mix.

It was reported that the peanut case "is emblematic of the FDA’s troubles in protecting the nation’s food supply."

"Understaffed and spread thin, the agency routinely has turned food inspections over to the states," reported the Chicago Tribune. "But watchdog groups said the states often are ill-equipped to monitor facilities where food products are stored, processed or manufactured.

The Associated Press reported last month that a second Peanut Corp. plant, in Texas, operated for years uninspected and unlicensed by government health officials until after the company fell under investigation by the FDA.

Meanwhile, it was reported that Missourians have not been given potentially contaminated peanut butter products as part of the disaster assistance being delivered by federal and state emergency management agencies following the January ice storm.

Commercial meal kits manufactured by Boca Grande Foods and assembled by Red Cloud Food Services with peanut butter packets were distributed as part of the recovery efforts in neighboring Arkansas and Kentucky.

Missouri officials said no food products have been requested of the federal government, and a thorough review of meal kits provided to ice storm victims by the State Emergency Agency were not manufactured by Red Cloud Food Services or subject to this recall.

Still, emergency management officials urge caution: "If there is any doubt about any food item, throw it out."

It is feared that the proximity of some Arkansas and Kentucky media markets to Missouri may lead to some confusion. Residents of bordering communities have been urged to be particularly cautious.

And as part of a major nationwide USDA-ordered recall of some peanut butter products suspected of being tainted, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Arkansas Department of Emergency Management (ADEM) have taken precautionary and pro-active measures to reduce any risk to storm-affected Arkansans.

An inventory of meals received, distributed and staged revealed that storm victims did not receive products identified within the current USDA recall. Even so, federal govern-ment immediately began taking steps to inform the public of a potential health issue and are taking precautionary steps to ensure the health and safety of all Arkansans. /MP

ENFORCE LEAD GUIDELINES: Fondevilla

The Department of Agriculture (DA) has enjoined all the DA Regional Directors, Regional Agri-culture Fishery, Provincial Agricultural Fishery, and Municipal Agricultural Fishery Councils chair persons to "enforce the recovery of the Livelihood Enhancement For Agri-cultural Development (LEAD) program rep-lenishment".

In a Memorandum dated January 15, 2009, DA Undersecretary Atty. Bernie G. Fondevilla urged those concerned in the LEAD program to "demand from the project proponents remittance of their replenishments on time". He also reminded project proponents to adhere strictly to the existing guidelines in the implementation of the LEAD Program.

In Aklan, some P2.55 million was released to various LEAD projects since 1988. However, only P0.174 million was replenished. These LEAD projects are found in Banga, Balete, Kalibo, Batan, Tangalan, Malay, Makato, Malinao, Libacao, Numancia, and Ibajay.

The money was used to fund agricultural projects such as pineapple fiber production, swine, duck, goat, poultry, salted egg making, fish processing, crab fattening projects among others.

Aside from the Grains Processing Center in Laguinbanua, Ibajay which until today is not operational, there are the Trading Post of the LGU Makato funded at P0.885 million and the Multi Purpose Training Center of the Lezo Multi Purpose Cooperative, Inc., Lezo funded with P0.588 million.
Atty. Fondevilla is urging all project proponents and implementers of these projects in Aklan to replenish the funds released to them as early as possible. /MP

Return Fish Tags, BFAR Urges Fishers/Consumers

The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) called on fishers and consumers to see the fish they have caught or bought have tags in them. BFAR requests that those tags be saved and returned those markers to their respective local government units (LGUs), as these are parts of a scientific study to help develop a regional manage-ment plan for tuna and small pelagic fishes in the Southeast Asian region in order to ensure their sustainability.

Three multi-national fish tagging projects are currently underway, with the country as a member-participant.

BFAR Director Malcolm Sarmiento Jr. reported to Agriculture Secretary Arthur Yap that one of these projects is the Tuna Tagging in the Western and Central Pacific. The Oceanic Fisheries Programme (OFP) under the Secretariat of the Pacific Community based in New Caledonia is spearheading. The Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission are funding the project.

This tagging project and two other similar activities are led in the country by the BFAR thru the National Fisheries Research and Development Institute (NFRDI).

"This tuna tagging project carries a $10 reward for yellow tag, $50 for green tag and $250 for orange tag, said Sarmiento. The latter two have accompanying devices inserted in the body cavity of the fish (near the abdomen). The tag on the former is attached on the back of the fish near the second dorsal fin."

"We are calling on our fishermen and the consuming public to surrender to BFAR or the LGUs, any tag found in fishes particularly big-eye, skipjack, or yellowfin tuna, and other marine fishes, as these are parts of scientific studies," Sarmiento said.

These tuna species are locally known as tangi or tambakul. According to the OFP, "the tuna tagging project will provide better information on fishery exploitation rates and population sizes in the Western and Central Pacific. Data gathered will allow the improvement of regional stock assessment for the three species."

The OFP calls on anyone who takes hold of a tuna with tag to record its fork length (upper jaw to the fork-end of the tail), date, and place of recapture. The OFP also advised that extra care must be observed in handling the inserted devices.

Apart from this tuna tagging project, a similar species tracking effort is also being undertaken by the Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center (SEAFDEC) involving small pelagics particularly alumahan (Japanese mackerel), hasa-hasa (short-bodied mackerel, Indian mackerel), and galunggong (round scad).

Along with tunsoy, tawiles and matangbaka, these fishes constitute about 50 percent of the Philippines’ total marine catch.

Last year, the Philippines plus seven more Asian countries started tagging five commercially- important fish species like galunggong and hasa-hasa in the South China Sea and Andaman Seas as the focus of a three-year collaborative research on the migration patterns of small pelagic fishes in these waters.

The Philippines is doing this tagging project for mackerel and round scads species in partnership with Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia (Peninsula, Sabah and Sarawak), Vietnam and Myanmar .

"Fish tagging involves the insertion of special number-coded yellow tags at the base of the dorsal fins of individual fishes." "The fishes are released back into the sea and their tags will hopefully be returned to the nearest fishery agency by the fishermen who catch them," Sarmiento said.

This project is designed to determine the migratory path of these species, which, in turn, will eventually lead to the development of a regional management and conservation plan for the sustainability of small pelagic fisheries in the region.

"This 3-year research project is an offshoot of a regional study of the SEAFDEC-entitled ‘Information Collection for Sustainable Pelagic Fisheries in the South China Sea’-to determine the relationship of small pelagic stocks in Southeast Asian countries, including their biology and population."

SEAFDEC, based in Iloilo, headed by Dr. Joebert Toledo, together with 10 other SEAFDEC member-countries, the Philippines is promoting the adoption of the Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries in Southeast Asia ."

SEAFDEC is an inter-governmental organization tasked to promote sustainable fisheries development in Southeast Asia composed of Philippines, Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Japan, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam. (DA-PRESS OFFICE) /MP

LEGAL Notices

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late JOSEFINA DE LA TORRE who died intestate which consist of one parcel of land located in Brgy. Union, Nabas, Aklan is the subject of a "Extra-Judicial Settlement of Estate With Sale" by her surviving children and heirs. The deed was executed before Notary Public Gloria Masangcay, Ibajay, Aklan on August 25, 2008 as per Doc. No. 163; Page No. 35; Book No. 48; Series of 2008.

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Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late CIRILO DAGOHOY who died intestate which consist of one parcel of land located in Brgy. El Progreso, Buruanga, Aklan is the subject of a "Deed of Adjudication With Sale" by his surviving heir. The deed was executed before Notary Public Higino C. Macabales, Kalibo, Aklan on March 2, 2009 as per Doc. No. 217; Page No. 43; Book No. XXIX; Series of 2009.

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Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late Cezar Malayas who died intestate which consist of one parcel of land located in Brgy. Panilongan, Buruanga, Aklan is the subject of a "Deed of Adjudication With Sale" by his surviving heirs. The deed was executed before Notary Public Higino C. Macabales, Kalibo, Aklan on March 2, 2009 as per Doc. No. 216; Page No. 43; Book No. XXIX; Series of 2009.

BULLETIN ON VACANT POSITION

Republic of the Philippines
Province of Aklan
Municipality of Banga

OFFICE OF THE MUNICIPAL MAYOR
BULLETIN ON VACANT POSITION

Position : DRAFTSMAN II
(Office of the Municipal Planning &
Development Coordinator)
Item No. : 03
Salary Grade/Step : 08/1
Educational Requirement : Completion of two years studies in college
Experience Requirement : 1 year of relevant experience
Training Requirement : 4 hours of relevant training
Eligibility : CS Sub-Prof. or Draftsman or Illustrator

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(Sgd.) ANTONIO T. MAMING
Municipal Mayor

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Republic of the Philippines
Province of Aklan
Municipality of Banga

OFFICE OF THE MUNICIPAL MAYOR
BULLETIN ON VACANT POSITION

Position : YOUTH DEVELOPMENT OFFICER III
(Municipal Social Welfare & Development Office )
Item No. : 01
Salary Grade/Step : 18/1
Educational Requirement : Bachelor’s degree
Experience Requirement : 2 years of relevant experience
Training Requirement : 16 hours of relevant training
Eligibility : CS Prof.
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March 19, 2009
(Sgd.) ANTONIO T. MAMING
Municipal Mayor

Roxas Seeks 2-year Pag-Ibig Fund Moratorium

To help alleviate the plight of workers during the economic slowdown, Senator Mar Roxas has sought a two-year morato-rium on the mandatory contribution of alls workers to the Pag-Ibig fund.

"At this time that household budgets are constrained, let’s give our consumers the choice to continue contributing to Pag-Ibig or to use their contributions to make ends meet," Roxas stressed. "Housing is important, but we also see how important it is to help our people cope with hunger. Let’s give them the power to choose," he added.

In filing Senate Bill (SB) No. 3127 Roxas said that salaries of workers remain the same or even less, while the global financial meltdown continues its onslaught on the local economy. While the mandatory monthly Pag-Ibig contribution serves the long-term goal of housing for all, "every peso counts when it comes to each family’s survival."

SB 3127 proposes a two year freeze in the collection of the monthly Pag-Ibig fund contributions of workers both in the public and private sector, subject to exceptions such as those who would voluntarily want to be covered and those who have outstanding Pag-Ibig loans.

Pag-Ibig fund contri-butions are mandatory in character. It was established through Presidential Decree No. 1752, or the Home Development Mutual Fund Law of 1980. It is intended to motivate employed and other earning groups to better plan and provide for their housing needs. It has a total of 7.27 million members as of September 2008. /MP

Gutierrez As Ombudsman Is Until October

Senator Francis "Chiz" Escudero last week said the days of Merceditas Gutierrez as Ombudsman are numbered. She is only serving the unexpired term of her predecessor, Simeon Marcelo.

"By my calculation, Ombudsman Gutierrez’s term as head of the anti-graft body ends this October. She has only seven months left as she only serves the unexpired term of her predecessor," Escudero said in a statement.

The senator, a member of the Judicial Bar Council, pointed out Marcelo was appointed Ombudsman in October 2002 and resigned in November 2005, when Gutierrez was then named as his replacement.

"Marcelo served as Ombudsman for over three years and Gutierrez’s tenure is now nearing four. Under the Constitution, the Ombudsman and his or her deputies shall only serve for seven years without the benefit of reappointment in the same position," Escudero said.

He explained that Gutierrez is not entitled to a full term of seven years, citing a Supreme Court ruling in 1955.

Escudero said that in the case of Republic versus Imperial, the Court ruled that: "When the Constitution fixes the duration of a term of office, and at the same time provides for its being filled at a fixed time occurring periodically, it necessarily follows that, a casual vacancy occurring during such term of office, necessity must arise for filling it for the unexpired term; and although the mode of filling such vacancy is prescribed by the Constitution, yet the incumbent only holds until the time arrives for filling the office in the regular mode and at the regular time prescribed by the Constitution."

Escudero explained that Section 9 of Article XI of the Constitution provides for the appointment of the Om-budsman. The President chooses from a list of six nominees prepared by the Judicial and Bar Council, and from a list of three nominees for every vacancy thereafter.

Section 11 of the same article provides for their term of office, which is seven years, Escudero said.

"So the Office of the Ombudsman fits the rule enunciated by the Supreme Court in its 1955 decision. It has not been overturned so it is still binding and absolutely enforceable," the senator said.

Put simply, the Office of the Ombudsman that has a fixed term of seven years and not the person occupying it, Escudero pointed out.

"Therefore, Gutierrez has only until October 2009 to serve as Ombudsman rests on firm and solid legal basis. This is a Supreme Court decision and all of us must follow the rule of law," he said.

Gutierrez is now facing possible removal from office as an impeachment complaint had been lodged against her at the House of Representatives.
"I hope she makes the most out of her remaining days in office by sending the biggest government crooks to jail," said Escudero. /MP

Malacañang’s Revenge For LP Fight Vs Corruption Starts

Senator Mar Roxas last week said graft charges filed against party mate and former Bukidnon Rep. Nereus Acosta smacks of political persecution following his and the Liberal Party’s united demand for an immediate stop to government corruption and the resignation of Ombudsman Merceditas Gutierrez.

"Neric has unfortunately become an unwitting collateral damage in this renewed attacks by the Arroyo administration against me and the Liberals for standing up for accountability and good governance."

Roxas questioned the timing of the Ombudsman’s action against Acosta and his mother, Socorro, a former municipal mayor of Manolo Fortich in Bukidnon, and his aunt, Ma. Nemia Bornidor. The Liberal party and I have been expecting such propaganda from President Arroyo’s attack dogs.

Senator Roxas had been hitting at Gutierrez’ inaction on controversial corruption scandals such as the P728 million fertilizer fund diversion scam, the P6.9 million ‘Euro General’ intelligence fund mess and the multi-billion peso NBN-ZTE bribery scandal among others.

Demands for Gutierrez’ resignation reverberated the halls of the Senate after senators discovered her passive reaction to the rigged bidding findings of the World Bank in relation to a government road projects it was funding.
"As we escalate our opposition to corruption, unfairness and injustice in government, we expect that the same government will escalate its assault against its critics. We expect that they will use the ‘rule by law and coercion’ at the expense of the rule of law," Roxas said.

He said Malacanang could not intimidate the Liberals and vowed to expose more shenanigans involving Palace cohorts raiding the national coffers for personal and future political purposes. /MP

Vegetable Program, A Repeat

The editorial board of Madyaas Pen received three articles from three agencies of the Department of Agriculture.

One article came from Ms. Arlene Edna V. La Vega of the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist of Antique. According to her, the "Programang Gulayan Ng Masa (PGMA), a hunger mitigation program for Antique continues its strategy to reduce hunger and improve nutrition in the Province.

The PGMA on its Phase II of implementation benefits more farmers. A total of 10,535 households had benefited from the program through the establishment of communal backyard and school gardens in the nine municipalities of Antique.

The project covers the towns of Anini-y, Patnongon, Belison, Sebaste, San Jose, Libertad, Valderama, Hamtic, and Barbaza with high incidence of malnutrition", wrote La Vega.

PGMA is only one of the components of the Hunger Mitigation Program supported by the Department of Agriculture, Office of the Provincial Agriculturist, Local Government Units, Depart-ment of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Health, and Agricultural Training Institute implemen-ted in the province from 2007 to the present. This program aims to uplift the living conditions of the common people and minimize malnutrition among its populace.

Other components are Gulayan sa Paaralan Program (GPP) for elementary schools and Gulayan for cluster areas in the four (4) municipalities of Sibalom, Bugasong, Belison and Pandan.

In 2008, a total of 555 cans and 29 packets of assorted vegetable seeds like amplaya, squash, pechay, eggplant, kangkong, pole sitao and okra. A total of 632 bags of organic fertilizers were also distributed to the 9 recipient municipalities for free," La Vega related, she did not specifically say the quantity provided. There are several sizes of cans and packets.

What is the Result?

While La Vega reported what the program implementers did, she did not write the specific result. From 2007 to the present, La Vega may tell the people of Antique as to the effects of the PGMA. Did it reduce the number of malnourished persons? Did it increase the per capita income of the households in those targeted municipalities?

GK – DA Vegetable Program

Another vegetable program yet to be launched this month is the GK-DA Vegetable Program. According to the Depart-ment of Agriculture (DA) the program is aimed to help end hunger among the 500,000 poor Filipinos under the Gawad Kalinga (GK) and DA.

It is a three year program geared to build 250 farms comprise of 30 families, each to have a 10 square meter garden and each family is expected to produce 10 kilograms of vegetable per family per month. This quantity is good for 30 meals or 10 days of food per month.

Rene Rafael Espino, director of GMA High Value Commercial Crops (HVCC), the GK-DA will provide the initial seeds, organic fertilizer, and technical assistance to beneficiary families who will be assisted in the proper way of vegetable growing.

This year, 500 farms will be established and another 1000 farms each in years 2010 and 2011. This will enable the people to increase their consumptions of various vegetables from 30 to 76 kilos per annum.

This GK-DA vegetable program will enlist the assistance of local govern-ment units as partner and an organized community group to coordinate project implementation. Moreover, the project will also enlist the assistance of agricultural state colleges and universities, and its students to assist provide training on proper production technologies for the beneficiaries.

This upper described program has been done and tested before. It was implemented by the Bureau of Agricultural Extension. Those vegetable programs aimed to improve family nutrition, earn additional family income, provide training on food production for future young farmers, and develop positive attitude toward the dignity of labor particularly on agriculture.

The last project of BAEX on vegetable before its abolition was "Vegetable Production in the Household Level". That was funded for P3 million by the US agency for International Development.

To assure proper implementation of this vegetable program, the DA must assign its personnel at least in a province. /MP

Entrepreneurial Farmer

Ambrosio R. Villorente

Pag Abi-abi Sa Mga Bisitang Dinapit *

*Welcome remarks of Dr. Ambrosio R. Villorente on the occasion of the Official Launching of "Ro 19 Martirez It Akean", a historical piece written in the Aklanon language which chronicles the events and circumstances leading to the martyrdom of the 19 Martyrs of Aklan held at 3:00 P.M., Wednesday, March 18, 2009 at Museo it Akean, Kalibo, Aklan.

Sono kay Cicero (Maraus Tullius), sangka Roman statesman, orador ag philosopher," "History is the witness that testifies to the passing of time; it illumines reality, vitalizes memory, provides guidance in daily life and brings us tidings of antiquity."

Sa akong manabaw nga pag eobot, ro history sono kay Cicero hay isaeang ka testigo nga maga sugid it mga nagkaeanabo ko nag-taliwang oras, maga tao it kahayagan, maga ba-id ko atong pa ino-ino, maga guiya sa atong pag hueag adlaw adlaw, ag maga daea it pahayag nga may kaangtanan ko mga butang nga nahanabo ko mga nagtaliwan nga mga dinag-on.

Ko 1966, pag adto nakon sa France, may ka topad ako sa eroplano halin sa Bangkok pa adto sa Paris. Ka guwapahon nga daeaga. Sa sueod it waeong oras, masadya ro among sugilanon sa hambae nga English.

Tag sa De Gaule airport eon kami sa Paris, naghambae ro daeaga kakon, "C’la Francis, j’ai parle une lange seulment, la Frances est la lange tres bong".

Kon sa aton pa, Sa France eon kita, owa eon ako’t ibang hambae nga haton-an kondi French, ro pinaka mayad ayad mga lingua franka sa bilog nga Kalibotan, sono sa daeaga.

Iya kita makaron sa Museo It Akean, Kalibo, busa sa ngaean it tri-media it Akean guina abi-abi guid nakon kamo tanan sa atong Akeanong hambae, ro pinaka mayad-ayad nga lingua franka sa bug-os man nga kalibutan.

Taeagsa naton matipon sa sangka hilikoton ag lugar ro aton ngarang mga dinapit nga mga bisita sa rayang pag paeopad ko libretto nga guin tipon, guin sueat, ag guin imprenta it sangka masaligan nga manonoeat, Si Abogado Ronquillo C. Tolentino. Ro aton ngarang pagtipon-tipon hay naga kahueogan guid ko atong paghigugma sa atong lugar nga natawohan. Owa’t iba kundi Akean.

Atong guina abi-abi ro pag tambong nanday:

1. Hon. Carlito S. Marquez, Provincial governor it Aklan,

2. Hon. Raymar A. Rebaldo, Municipal Mayor of Kalibo guin representahan ni Mr. Randy Rebaldo,

3. Mr. Jose T. Tumbokon, Former Assemblyman it Aklan ag Minister of Information,

4. Atty. Allen S. Quimpo, President it North-western Visayan Colleges, former Mayor of Kalibo and former Congressman it Aklan,

5. Hon. Mark Vega Quimpo, member, Kalibo Sangguniang Bayan

6. Rev. Fr. Jose Gualberto Villasis, Pres., Aklan Catholic College

7. Dr. Victorina S. Laroza, Schools Division Supt., DepEd Aklan guin representahan ni Dr. Concepcion Pelayo Constantino,

8. Mr. Juan P. Dayang, Pres., Publishers Association of the Philippines, Inc.

9. Atty. Diego M. Luces, Provincial Adminis-trator, Province of Aklan ag former Mayor it Kalibo

10 Hon. Jose Yap, SP member, Aklan

11. Ms. Sumra Dela Cruz Rojo, curator it Museo it Akean.

11. Ms. India Dela Cru Legaspi,

12. Ms. Manolita Acevedo,

13. Mr. Odon S. Bandiola, Aklan SP Secretary, ag

14. Mr. Rufino Barrios, former Kalibo SB member.

Sa pag paeayag naton ko rayang libretto nga guin sueat ni Abogado Ronquillo C. Tolentino ko kasaysayan it decenueve (19) Martirez it Akean, halin sa among mayad ayad nga mga paino-ino ag mabinoeawanon nga tagipuso-on amon guid kamong himpit nga guina baton ag guina abi-abi, palanggang mga bisita. Nadonggan kami sa inyong pag-abot. Welcome! /MP

Tolentino’s 19 Martyrs Booklet

The Aklan History Society and Aklan Media Forum in cooperation with the Provincial Government of Aklan and LGU Kalibo in observance of March as Month of Aklanon Patriots and Martyrs officially launch "Ro 19 Martirez it Akean". A historical piece written in the Aklanon language authored by Atty. Ronquillo C. Tolentino chronicles the events and circumstances leading to the martyrdom of the 19 sons of Aklan in 1897.

The launching was held in the Museo it Akean on Wednesday afternoon, March 18. Dr. Ambrosio R. Villorente and Kalibo SB member Mark V. Quimpo welcomed the guests and visitors. Engr. Roger Esto and Ms. Cecille de Lemos were the emcees.

The cutting of ceremonial ribbon was lead by Gov. Carlito S. Marquez Atty. Kel C. Tolentino, Hon. Mark Vega Quimpo, Mr. Johnny Dayang, Mr. Randy A. Rebaldo, Mr. Jose T. Tumbokon, and Rev. Fr. Jose Gualberto Villasis. /MP

Erosion At Diniwid Beach, Boracay

"We are writing you in alarm about the terrible erosion along Boracay beaches. Affected is the White Beach, but the worst affected is Diniwid Beach." This is the principal information Mr. Peter Brugger provided to Madyaas Pen.

Mr. Peter Brugger is the vice president for External Affairs of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) Boracay.

According to him, PCCI – Boracay has written DENR Sec. Jose L. Atienza, Jr. informing him last February of the rapid beach erosion in Boracay. However, until today, there is no respond. Meanwhile, rapid soil erosion is continuing.

"Erosion of the beach is already measured in meters. The whole area of northern Diniwid beach is not accessible anymore, particularly at high tide," related Brugger. "There are fences and buildings on the other side which are violations of setback laws." Many establishments at the northern part of Diniwid beach violate national laws and municipal ordinances such as building permanent structures on the marine reserve zone or within no build zone, the set back from the tide mark, and have no permit to operate a resort or establishments," narrated Brugger. /MP

MOVE Aklan Chapter In International Women’s Day

by TERENCE T. TORIANO

Kalibo, Aklan – MOVE, Aklan Chapter, one of the most active groups that advocates the protection of the rights of women and children took its most active role this March 11, 2009 during the celebration of the International Women’s Day where Sangguniang Panlalawigan member and MOVE member Andoy Gelito read the SP Resolution Number 2008-365 titled "Proposing the Organization of Men Opposing Violence Against Women Everywhere (MOVE) in Aklan".

Although MOVE Aklan Chapter is in existence for more than two years now, MOVE President Aklan Chapter Franklin Quimpo pointed out that the resolution passed by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Aklan will make the civic actions and activities of the organization worthwhile since there is solid support from the provincial government.

In a move of support, the Municipality of Kalibo under Mayor Raymar Rebaldo’s tutelage added the organization of MOVE Kalibo Chapter and chapters in Barangays to its 3-Year Gender and Development Plan aimed to rally the men against VAWC (Violence Against Women and Children) Crimes and make it an organization of advocacy since three of LGU-Kalibo’s employees are active members.

According to Rebaldo, the beginnings of the MOVE may result to the sudden surge of VAWC cases due to its effective information dissemination campaign where women will grow bolder in reporting abuses and that number will grow as the women become more empowered and the abusers either go to jail and realize his mistakes. /MP

Master Scout 2009 Is A Malaynon

Scout Niño N. Sacapaño (center), in his Kingdom

during the coronation program last month.

Scout Niño M. Sacapaño was crowned "Master Scout 2009" in coronation ceremonies held last month in Magsaysay Park, Kalibo, Aklan.

With Master Scout Niño are the members of his kingdom. They are Scout Boy John V. Rebase, the Prince of Hope from Batan District; Scout Resty S. Cobrador – Prince of Loyalty from Banga District; Scout Lerven John L. Flores – Prince of Honesty from Nabas District; Scout Christian Benedict D. Esto – Prince of Peace from Libacao District; Scout Cris Geo C. Advincula – Prince of Love from Kalibo II District, and Scout Keven Clay D. Tiagan – Prince of Integrity from Buruanga District.

Master Scout 2009 Niño is the son of Mr. Victor C. Sacapaño and Ms. Angelie M. Sacapaño. Niño is studying in Balabag Elem. School, Balabag, Malay, Aklan which is headed by Mrs. Glenda N. Sacapaño, Ms. Sherwin S. Maming is their Kawan leader while the District Scouting Commissioner is Ms. Arlene Regalado, and Ms. Betsyros S. Bautista is the District Field Scouting Commissioner.

The coronation of Master Scout is an annual activity of the Boy Scouts of the Philippines. This year’s guest speaker is Hon. Jose S. Yap – Aklan Sangguniang Panlalawigan member and former Mayor of Malay. Yap, in his speech, expounded on the importance of joining and participating in the activities of the Boy scouts. He underscored the importance of Boy scouts in leadership training for young boys as future leaders of the community and country.

Yap who was introduced by Mr. Democrito T. Barrientos, Principal II, Malay District led in the coronation of the Master Scout 2009, Niño M. Sacapaño.

Atty. Ronquillo C. Tolentino, Chairman, BSP, Aklan Council welcomed the participants and guests.

Ms. Leila P. Leonida – Pamatian, BSP Aklan Council Scout Executive thanked all guests and scouts for their cooperation. /MP

Seattle Foundation Picks Cebuano in AIDS LifeCycle

by ALEX P. VIDAL

CHICAGO, Illinois — A Seattle-based foundation for West Coast gay and lesbian minority has approved the participation of a Cebuano AIDS crusader in the 2009 AIDS LifeCycle which will unwrap on May 31-June 6, 2009. Cyclists and volunteers will travel 545 miles through beautiful California from San Francisco to Los Angeles.

The Right to Life Foundation said Christopher Cabansay of Cebu City, Philippines has qualified to participate in the event which will raise money to help beneficiaries and continue to provide the critical services and education needed to meet the growing needs of community.

It is the official cycling event of the San Francisco AIDS Foun-dation and the L.A. Gay & Lesbain Center.

Cabansay will join as volunteer as the foundation bigwigs unanimously approved the donation of at least $5,000 to hold in the campaign to increase awareness and knowledge about HIV/AIDS among participants, their donors and the general public.

Michael Barron, AIDS LifeCylce director, said the event will address the widespread misperception that HIV and AIDS are no longer a problem. "In fact more people are living with HIV & AIDS today than ever before, which means a much greater need for services," he said.

It will also provide a reminder that the rate of HIV infection is increasing, particularly in communities of color and in individuals under the age of 25.
In California alone there are 60,000 people living with AIDS, and another estimated 91,000 living with HIV, many unaware of their infection, it was learned.

Each cyclist will be required to raise a minimum of $3,000. Each cyclist is assigned to a personal Cyclist Rep-resentate for assistance with training, fundraising, and emotional and practical support from the moment they register through the event’s completion.

EFFECTS OF RECESSION?

Pinoy Olympians To Earn More

Than U.S. Tracksters

Filipino athletes stand to earn more cash incentives if they harvested medals in the 2012 London Olympics compared to what members of the United States track and field team will get for the same feat.

While the Philippine government, with the help of a giant telecommu-nication company, has pledged to award cash prizes worth P12 million (about $232,800), P3 million (about $58,200) and P1 million ($19,400) for gold, silver and bronze medal winners, the United States Olympic Committee will give only $25,000 (about P1.175 million) for gold medalist, $15,000 (about P705,000) for silver medalist, and $10,000 (about P470,000) for bronze medalist in track and field.

However, USA Track & Field chief executive officer Doug Logan recommended paying additional $15,000 to those who will achieve personal best at the Games and $5,000 to those who will hit their high mark of the season.

Logan wanted the United States track and field team to improve from the 23 medals it won in Beijing in August 2008 to 30 at the 2012 Games in London. The Associated Press quoted Logan: "We have to do more to support and cultivate our talent, but it is undoubtedly there."

Logan also recom-mended shortening the trials for the Games as ways of improving the team’s results after a dis-appointing effort in the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

This was his response to an unflattering 69-degree report issued last February by a panel that examined the federation’s problems after the United States won only seven gold medals in Beijing.

He said the failures in Beijing were not merely aberrations but were proof that validates "the unease felt by many" in American track and field.

Meanwhile, more windfalls await victorious Filipino athletes most particularly amateur boxers in international competitions aside from the World Summer Olympic Games.

These are: P2 million, P1 million and P500,000 for gold, silver and bronze medal winners in the Asian Games; P1 million, P500,000 and P250,000 in World Championships; P300,000, P200,000 and P100,000 in the Southeast Asian Games and P30,000, P20,000 and P10,000 in minor international tournaments.

The Philippines, however, has not won a gold medal in the Games and the highest achieve-ment of Filipino Olym-pians were the silver medals won by boxers Anthony Villanueva in the 1964 Tokyo Olympics and Mansueto "Onyok" Velasco in the 1996 Atlanta Olympics. /MP

Roxas Condemns Gaite Appointment

Sen. Mar Roxas said today President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s appointment of Deputy Executive Secretary Manuel Gaite to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) reflects the administration’s lack of decency and concern for public opinion of its conduct.

"This administration does not care for what the public thinks. At this time that the SEC’s reputation is crumbling down, President Arroyo has appointed someone whose own credibility is as low as the one he’s replacing," Roxas said.

Roxas believed Gaite’s appointment was also apparently a reward for his role in Malacanang’s attempt to silence NBN-ZTE broadband deal whistleblower Rodolfo "Jun" Lozada Jr.

"What proof could Gaite show that he has ‘good moral character?’ This is one of the qualifications set by law for SEC commissioners," Roxas asked.
Roxas cited Section 4.2 of the Securities Regulation Code on the qualifications for SEC commissioners, which states, "The Commissioners must be… of good moral character, of unquestionable integrity, of known probity and patriotism, and with recognized competence..." SEC commissioners are Presidential appointees and "If the President is really serious in cleaning up the SEC and recovering the public trust in our institutions, she should immediately cancel Gaite’s appointment and headhunt for a person whose integrity cannot be assailed," he suggested.
Arroyo herself selected Gaite to replace Jesus Enrique Martinez who allegedly received bribes from Celso de los Angeles, Legacy Group owner. /MP

POLICE REPORT

by PO2 NIDA L. GREGAS

Aklan PPO 3-storey Building Construction Starts

The Philippine National Police (PNP) finally started the construction of its new Aklan Police Provincial Office (APPO) 3-storey building last month following an ocular inspection conducted by the contractor together with Regional Engineer, Police Inspector Romulo on February 20, 2009.

Aklan police director, Senior Supt. Clarence Guinto said the construc-tion of the new 3–storey building will house state-of-the-art facilities for better and efficient police services to the community. A total of more or less P10 million is budgeted for the 3-storey building at Camp Pastor Martelino grounds in Barangay New Buswang with counterpart funds from the provincial government of Aklan and the Office of the Congressional District of Aklan.

The new facility is also the centerpiece project of the PNP Integrated Transformation Program (ITP), Aklan being the first pilot site of the Model Police Provincial Office and with two Model Police Stations: BSTPO and Kalibo Police Station.

Aklan PPO Plants Mangrove Tree and Cleans Sea Coast

In another activity, the APPO led by Aklan police director Senior Supt. Clarence Guinto planted Mangrove trees and cleaned sea coast at Bachawan Eco-Park, New Buswang, Kalibo. It was in coordination with Kayo Inishimura, researcher/environmentalist from Japan of Kalibo Save the Mangrove (KASAMA).

KASAMA was awarded as Best Asia Community Base Eco-tourism Project. Former Mayor and Congressman Atty. Allen S. Quimpo and now the Chairman of Aklan River System Development Council started the project about 20 years ago.

Guinto said, the activity served as a full support to all environmental protec-tion activities of the government and non government organizations for the preservation and protection of our environment specially the mangrove trees that protect wildlife. Forest prevents flood and reduces erosion.

Some 60 PNP personnel from Aklan PPO, 601st Provincial Mobile Group, and Kalibo Police Station joined the activity as part of the Women’s Month celebration. They planted 500 mangrove propagules, cleaned sea coast, and segregated garbage.

"We will continue our endeavor to make Aklan province a better place to live with and a safe environment, PSSUPT Guinto assured.

70 Aklan PNP Personnel Attend
Moral Recovery Seminar

Some 70 PNP personnel participated in the Moral Recovery and Spiritual Values Transformation Seminar.

Values Formation and Spiritual Transformation Council head, Rev. John Travilla, Regional Director conducted the seminar held at Aklan PPO Multi-Purpose Building, Camp Pastor Martelino, Kalibo.

The seminar aimed to strengthen the moral fiber of the PNP personnel as Filipino people rooted in the Filipino culture, values, ideals that are Maka-Diyos, Makatao, Makabayan and Maka-Kalikasan.

The activity will continue to uplift the spiritual and moral values of the PNP, Aklan police director Senior Supt. Clarence Guinto stressed.

The seminar discussion focused on the Ethical Standard of government officials and employees, Love of God, Stewardship, Sanctity of Marriage and Respect for Women, Wisdom of Truthfulness and Good Traits of PNP personnel. /MP

MOVE Aklan Salutes Aklanon Women

As the country observes the International Women’s Day and the month of March as Women’s Month, the Men Opposed to VAW (Violence Against Women) Everywhere, Inc. –Aklan Chapter, paid tribute to the Aklanon women who continue to pursue and bring significant contributions to Aklan’s development.

The women’s month is an opportune time for all to pay tribute to our mothers, wives, sisters, girl-friends and girl-children in Aklan as these women continue to struggle for their rights and empowerment according to Franklin Quimpo, MOVE, Inc. – Aklan president.

Quimpo noted that women’s rights continue to be violated as rising incidence of violence against women and children (VAWC) persist. The Women and Children Protection Section (WCPS) of the Aklan PNP states that reported cases in 2008 reached 378 for women and 150 for children.

From January to February this year, 57 VAW cases are already reported and 17 for children. The alarming reports show that everyone should continue to speak out and oppose violence against women and children. MOVE –Aklan will be in the forefront to raise awareness and call the attention of men who are primarily the perpetrators to oppose and stop violence against women and children in Aklan.

In Aklan’s Women’s Day celebration on March 11, MOVE joined all stakeholders in this important event to highlight this year’s theme:" Babae, Yaman ka ng Bayan". MOVE is encouraging, empowering, inspiring and supporting men in valuing women as equals to eliminate gender based violence against women and children in the locality.

The provincial government of Aklan through the Aklan Gender and Development Com-mission (AGADCC) had lined up various activities to highlight women’s role in the province. In line with this, MOVE facilitated men’s health concerns through a free check up for selected males with prostate problems on March 12, at the Daeangpan it mga Kababayenan. /MP

Graduation Rites Mark With Austerity

by ERNESTO T. SOLIDUM

Guests on the March 14 Kapehan Sa Aklan are shown above. They are (l to r) Ms. Evelyn Carillo Aranas, Principal II, Kalibo Pilot Elem. School, District I, Ms. Corazon S. Beluso, Education Supervisor, and Mr. Jesus Lim, Principal II, Kalibo Elem. School, District II with Atty. Ronquillo C. Tolentino

Kapehan Sa Aklan, a Saturday forum, on March 14 has three guest educators from the Division of Aklan, Ms. Corazon S. Beluso, Education Supervisor, Ms. Evelyn Carillo Aranas, Principal II, Kalibo Pilot Elem. School, District I and Mr. Jesus Lim, Principal II, Kalibo Elem. School, District II. The theme is "My Education: My Contribution to the Future" or "Edukasyon Ko: Handog Ko Sa Kinabukasan".

The graduation rites is scheduled any day between March 28 to April 3, 2009.

DepEd Sec. Jesli A. Lapus in a DepEd Order No. 15, Series of 2009 issued a revised guideline as contained in DepEd Order No. 8, Series of 2005 to address the need for austerity measure without sacrificing prestige and solemnity of the occasion. Some drastic measures are considered responsive to international financial meltdown in which developing countries like the Philippines are suffering the most. The guideline includes the following:

a) Public schools are not allowed to collect any graduation fee or any kind of contribution for graduation rites;

b) PTA/PTCA’s may solicit voluntary con-tributions from their members for graduation ceremonies and celebrations, however, teachers and principals should not be involved in the collection of said contributions. Use of such contributions for graduation shall be coordinated with and properly reported to the PTA/PTCA members;

c) No non-academic project shall be imposed as a requirement for graduation. d) No extra-ordinary venue for the ceremonies should be required. Holding the graduation within the school premises is strongly encouraged;

e) No special attire for the ceremonies should be required. Wearing of togas may be allowed subject to the approval of the PTA/PTCA officers and members representing the graduating students; and

f) contributions for the annual yearbook shall likewise be on a voluntary basis.

Mixed reactions from the tri-media practitioners were expressed. Although there is a felt need to clamp down on excessive expenditure associated with moving up (kiddies), closing (elementary/secondary) exercises, some parents argued that important milestone in their kid’s life must be duly celebrated with color and excitement notwith-standing the cost. For instance, Kalibo Elem. School PTCA has approved individual parent’s contribution of P300. The use of togas if available could still be advantageous since they could conceal ordinary clothing, gorgeous and brings solemnity to the graduation rites.

It appears that implementation of current DepEd order may be honored in the breech since education officials could not strictly enforce its spirit and substance. As long as PTCA officers and members approve contribution amount though out of whim and caprice, education officials could be exonerated of any guilt or charge. Mr. Jesus Lim confided that due to many financial demands faced by parents associated with graduation like final exam, yearbook, Juniors–Seniors prom, it is very rare to have 80 per cent collection rate.

One sinsible recom-mendation is to request DepEd for a graduation fund which would cover cost of rental of sound system, printing of certificates, program/invitation, medals, ribbons, stage decoration, refresh-ments, and other related expenses. Under the law, public elementary and high school education are free so why overburden the parents with many contributions they could hardly afford? Impact could be tremendous since college opening of school year poses again another challenge for parents to hurdle financial difficulties. /MP

Chiz Searches Truth And Justice Wants Politics Out of Dacer-Corbito Murder Case’

Senator Chiz Escudero on Monday warned the government against politicizing the revival of the Bubby Dacer-Emmanuel Corbito double-murder case. "It should not be used to steamroller the opposition", Escudero suggested.

"I hope the government is out to ferret out the truth so justice may be served and not use this opportunity to suppress and even silence sections of the opposition," Escudero added.

He issued the statement in reaction to news reports that a key witness in the murder, former police officer Cesar Mancao, had executed and signed an affidavit in the United States tagging a number of personalities, allegedly including incumbent Senator Panfilo Lacson, a ranking member of the opposition.

Escudero said the government should handle the investigation of the case "with utmost sensitivity" as it could potentially be used for political ends.

"We should always advocate for and help in the search for truth and justice but we should not tolerate any attempt either to silence and suppress the opposition especially groups known to have long been fighting against this corrupt, insen-sitive, and incompetent government," he said.

Mancao had reportedly executed an affidavit last Feb. 14 in Broward County, Florida, USA detailing his knowledge of the double-murder case, following his extradition from the US.

Where Is The Fertilizer Scam Report?
Escudero Asks Merci

Senator Francis "Chiz" Escudero on Monday asked Ombudsman Merciditas Gutierrez to release her office’s findings on the 728-million peso fertilizer fund scam as it promised to do so last month.

"The Office of the Ombudsman promised to have the report on the fertilizer scam ready by first week of March, or at the latest by March 15. It’s March 16. What will she say next?" he asked.

Her deputy, Assistant Ombudsman Jose de Jesus, was quoted as saying that Gutierrez was reviewing with a "fine tooth-comb" the 125-page report of the special panel.

"Baka nagkabali-bali na ang suklay sa tagal ng pag-review," (The comb may have been broken because of the long review), said Escudero who has asked the Ombudsman to step down in October when she completes the seven-year term of her predecessor, Ombudsman Simeon Marcelo.

He also said that continued inaction on the part of Gutierrez will only bolster the perception that she is out to protect big-time grafters in government.

Escudero also reiterated anew his call for the Ombudsman to release a list of cases still pending in her office so the people will know their status and why they have not been filed with the Sandiganbayan.

The Senate has already recommended the filing of plunder charges against former Department of Agriculture Undersecretary Jocelyn "Joc Joc" Bolante and eight other individuals for their alleged involvement in the diversion of P728-million in fertilizer fund to the 2004 campaign kitty of local officials allied with President Arroyo.

The Ombudsman has also been slammed for its failure to act on a number of controversial cases such as the alleged rigged bidding for World Bank-funded road projects and the ZTE-NBN national broadband deal.

In the impeachment complaint filed against her, among the cases cited by the petitioners were the Mega-Pacific agreement contract entered into by former Comelec chairman Benjamin Abalos, Sr., the extortion case against former Justice Department Secretary Hernando "Nani" Perez, and the case against the "Euro" generals.

"How can we expect the public to trust government when many high-ranking officials involved in such allegedly anomalous practices and transactions are not taken to task for their actions? If we allow this to continue, we will witness the collapse of institutions and, sub-sequently, democracy itself," Escudero stressed. /MP

NOTICE OF HEARING PUBLICATION

Republic of the Philippines
Regional Trial Court
Sixth Judicial Region
Kalibo, Aklan

OFFICE OF THE ACTING EXECUTIVE JUDGE

NOTICE OF HEARING

Notice is hereby given that a Summary Hearing on the Petition for Notarial Commission to:

Atty. APOLLO V. ROLDAN
# 69 Gov. Jose B. Legaspi St.,
Poblacion, Makato, Aklan

Shall be held by this Court on March 24, 2009 at 2:00 o’clock in the afternoon in the Session Hall of the Regional Trial Court, Branch 1, Kalibo, Aklan. Any person who has any cause or reason to object to the grant of the petition may file a verified written opposition thereto on or before the date of the summary hearing.

Kalibo, Aklan, Philippines
March 13, 2009

(Sgd.) MARIETTA J. HOMENA-VALENCIA
Vice-Executive Judge

LEGAL NOTICES

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late JOSE MALILAY who died intestate which consist of one parcel of land located in Brgy. Laguinbanua East, Numancia, Aklan is the subject of a "Deed of Adjudication With Sale of Portion of Land" by his surviving heirs. The deed was executed before Notary Public Pepito M. Iligan, Kalibo, Aklan on February 26, 2009 as per Doc. No. 454; Page No. 92; Book No. 212; Series of 2009.

-oO0-

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late JOSEFINA DE LA TORRE who died intestate which consist of one parcel of land located in Brgy. Union, Nabas, Aklan is the subject of a "Extra-Judicial Settlement of Estate With Sale" by her surviving children and heirs. The deed was executed before Notary Public Gloria Masangcay, Ibajay, Aklan on August 25, 2008 as per Doc. No. 163; Page No. 35; Book No. 48; Series of 2008.