Thursday, September 29, 2011

EDITORIAL


Way To Protect Drug Enforcers
VS Harassment Suits


by George M. De La Cruz



The Supreme Court (SC) is urged to issue a circular or rules of procedure to protect drug enforcers from harassments suits, said Atty. Clarence Paul V. Oaminal, former Vice Chairman and Undersecretary, Dangerous Drugs Board.
 

"It is high time that the Supreme Court of the Philippines takes a proactive stance in the drug problem by leveling the playing field and a protective mantle against sincere and honest anti-drug enforcers from harassment suits" he said.
 

Oaminal cited the countries like the United States of America and Canada which adopted a principle known as the Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation (SLAPP) to protect advocates of a law from harassment suits.
 

"If the Supreme Court has adopted the SLAPP doctrine in Environmental Law, there is no legal impediment if this could be applied in enforcing the Anti Drugs Law" he stressed.
 

It can be recalled that in the Philippines, the Supreme Court has issued Administrative Matter No. 09-6-8-SC dated April 13, 2010 or the Rules of Procedure in Environmental Laws which contains the SLAPP doctrine.

"SLAPP is any action whether civil, criminal or administrative, brought against a person, institution or any government agency or local government unit or its officers and employees, with the intent to harass, vex, exert undue pressure or stifle any legal recourse from such person, institution or government agency has taken or may take in the enforcement of a law," explained Oaminal.
 

The said administrative matter protects environmental advocates from these lawsuits. The Supreme Court could issue a similar circular that will protect law enforcers enforcing the anti drugs law.

"The proposed rules of procedure will consider lawsuits as SLAPP as long as the law enforcer could prove that it is a counter-charge or a harassment suit" Oaminal said.
 

The common cases filed against anti drug enforcers are Planting of Evidence under Section 29 of Republic Act 9165, Arbitrary Detention and Searching Domicile without witnesses under the Revised Penal Code. The practice of filing these cases has resulted in the disheartening of law enforcers Oaminal pointed out.
Dongail Case
 

Oaminal cited, as example, the recent conviction of Inspector Clarence Dongail of Bacolod City and his fellow officers how lacking the country’s institutional support to the law enforcers.
 

"It is ironical that government officials and the public demand so much from our law enforcers in curbing drugs and crimes. Yet when our law enforcers face trial they always stand alone. The existing legal offices in the Philippine National Police are created not to assist our police officers but are meant to persecute and prosecute them in administrative and quasi-judicial bodies. Thus, the need to create a Police Defenders’ Office," he suggested.
 

Another way is to provide a budget in the PNP specifically allocated for police officers facing cases filed in courts connected with the performance of their functions and duties.
 

Oaminal, a lawyer who has been extending legal assistance to law enforcers in the country prior to his appointment in the Dangerous Drugs Board met and convinced Senator Sotto, the Senate Majority Floor Leader and Senator Gregorio Honasan, Chairman of the Committee on Public Order to make sure there is annual allocation of enough amount for police protection.
 

Defending the legal rights of our law enforcers should start in the filing of the case either before the Ombudsman or with the prosecutors’ office, Oaminal stressed.

"I know that there are vultures out there ready to prey on the blood and flesh of our gallant officers whenever they are down," he said.
 

Oaminal has requested the office of Senator Sotto to arrange a meeting with Police Director General Bacalzo, and the PNP Legal Office to study the case of Inspector Dongail and other hundred officers similarly situated on how the PNP could be of help to law enforcers facing harassment cases. /MP

Entrepreneurial Farmer


Ambrosio R. Villorente


Fair Price Dignifies Farmers


"Bakeon ko ron it tig benti singko centimos kada sambato", (I’ll buy that for P0.25 per piece), a woman declared when I offered to sell her more than 100 pieces of "Saba" banana.


We have some Saba plants which fruits are more than what our family can consume. I thought of selling the surplus so other people will benefit from it instead of feeding to "Soil Night Crawler" in my Vermi Culture Project.


Today, Thursday, Sept. 29, I brought the surplus bananas to Kalibo. I offered to sell it to a banana cue vendor situated along the sidewalk of Veterans Avenue, Pob., Kalibo by the side of the fence of the Kalibo Elem. School.


The woman who was busy cooking fried saba banana offered to buy it at P0.25 per piece. I bargained for a little higher price, even just for the cost of transportation.


But she talked back, "Ah, maeomo manlang ga tanum it saging. Mag kutkot, itagdok ro saha it saging ag aywan. Bisitahan man kon ga bunga eon". (Oh, it is very easy to plant bananas. Just dig hole, put the banana sucker in it. Then leave it and visit if it has bear fruits.)


Her companion who was busy peeling the bananas bidded to buy it at P0.50 per piece. I gave it so as not to spend more effort and additional fare.


The words of that woman are negative re enforcement; it discourages people from engaging in farming. That woman does not realize the tedious jobs the farmers are undergoing to produce enough food for the people.


What is P0.25 to pay a piece of Saba banana? It is just P2.50 per kilo if 10 pieces of bananas weigh one kilogram.


That price is a dishonour to a farmer, particularly those producing bananas. It is degrading. She does not respect and acknowledge the efforts of the producers of food so that the people will have something to eat and to nourish their bodies.


That woman does not realize that farmers working in the farms are exposed to all adverse elements like rain during rainy days, and sunlight during sunny days. She does not realize that the farmer’s projects are very vulnerable to floods, typhoons and all other adverse weather conditions, including thieves. She does not realize the labor, land, and money the farmers invest in their farm projects.


She only thinks of her profits daily. Perhaps, she will realize these if nobody will sell her any food because she is "barat" (cheap). May she will realize soon that farmers are honorable and dignified as well and deserve fair price for their produce. Fair price dignifies farmers.

Private Sector Rep.


Aklan State University is now in search for two highly competent private sector representatives to its board of regents.


The ASU charter provides for the appointment of two private sector repesentatives in its board of regents. These positions have not been filled up since ASCA was converted to ASU. /MP

BGPC Is Born








Court Administrator Jose Midas Marquez of the Supreme Court of the Philippines was the guest of honor and inducting officer during the launching and induction program of the Boracay Global Press Corps (BGPC) held on Saturday evening, Sept. 24 at the Eco Village, Boracay, Malay, Aklan.


"Connecting the Wonders of Boracay Island to the World" serves as rallying theme and guide to BGPC officers and members in their quest to allure more visitors to come and enjoy in Aklan especially the world’s 2nd best beach.


BGPC is conceived as one international journalists organization equal if not better than other tourists oriented press associations of the world.


Justice Jose Midas Marquez filled the void of chief Justice Renato S. Corona who was unable to come to Boracay for the affair because of his other pressing matters.


Justice Marquez administered the oath of office to the following charter officers. Juan P. Dayang – president, Butz J. Maquinto – executive vice president, Diego C. Cagahastian – vice president for internal affairs, Louie T. Arriola – vice president for external affairs, Johnny C. Nuñez – board secretary, Alex G. Liu – treasurer, Al Labita – asst. secretary – treasurer, Allan T. Sison – auditor, Dr. Ambrosio R. Villorente, Maldwyn D. De Pano, Nelson S. Santos, Jaime C. Vistar, and Atty. Ronquillo C. Tolentino – directors. Atty. Allen S. Quimpo – president of the Northwestern Visayan Colleges, Kalibo is their adviser.


Kaibahang Butz J. Maquinto, station manager of RGMA – DYRU, Kalibo introduced the guest speaker, Justice Jose Midas Marquez in one sentence, but so comprehensive.


In his speech, Justice Marquez talked about the importance of the press in a democratic country like the Philippines. He pointed out the happiness, and the benefits the journalists enjoy. He also gave advice to fulfil fully well the duties of the press corps to society.


Dayang in his opening remarks discussed history, rationale, and objectives of BGPC.
Malay Mayor John P. Yap who was out of town was represented by his beautiful wife who welcomed the participants.


Aklan Gov.Carlito S. Marquez was represented by Atty. Diego M. Luces who read the governor’s welcome message.


The formation of the BGPC is hailed in their respective short speeches by Aklan Vice Governor Gabrielle V. Calizo-Quimpo, Allan T. Sison, president, Federation of Provincial Press, Jerry S. Yap – president, National Press Club, and Atty. Allen S. Quimpo, former congressman of Aklan. They agreed, it is a "welcome development, a
good thing happening".


The Special number rendered by the Madrigal Siblings of five songs on Filipino nationalism was highly applauded. The blending of their voices, the quality and manner of singing are really world class. /MP

Rotary Community Corps Reaches Out To Shape The Future


by MEGS LUNN


Rotarians embrace the challenges of humanitarian service efforts with compassion and a commitment to provide long-term, sustainable solutions. With this, about 300 Rotarians from District 3850 (Zamboanga and Negros, Panay Island), District 3860 (Cebu, Davao, Dumaguete, Bohol and Leyte) gathered to celebrate the 25th Silver Anniversary of the Rotary Community Corp (RCC) in the Philippines last month at Hotel Del Rio. The Rotary Club of Metro Iloilo led by Past District Governor Ramon "Toto" Cua Locsin hosted the affair. The celebration was in cooperation with Philippine College of Rotary Governors and Rotary Village Corps Foundation, Inc.


RCC was founded by then Rotary International President Mat Caparas of District 3830 when it was then Rotary Village Corp 25 years ago. Caparas is the first and only Filipino to be elected president of Rotary International. RCC literally was born in the Philippines. It was introduced around the world by Caparas to shape lives of the peoples in the community.


Rotary International President-Elect Sakuji Tanaka and Spouse Kyoko from Japan were the guests of honor. "When Rotary is strong, the community benefits," Tanaka declared in his speech.


The current District 3850 Governor Melvin Dela Serna summarized Tanaka speech in his response into three words – RCC is about empowerment, generosity and respect. "All Rotary clubs around the Philippines develops projects through RCC aimed to unite and empower the community at the grassroots level, and improve their quality of life as a whole, " Dela Serna reiterated.


The topics the speakers discussed during the meeting are: Topic 1 – Club Leadership Administrative Support Program for RCC by PP Boy Salanatin, District 3860 RCC Chair; Topic 2 – Volunteer-Initiatives for Talent Development (Vital Development) by PP Marge Lamberte, Deputy Exec. Dir., Rotary Academy D3830; Topic 3 – Partnership in Development Through Entrepreneurship by PP Dominic Abad, Regional Director, Department of Trade Industry; Topic 4 – Community Trans-formation Through RCC by CP Luz Pacifico, Asst. Gov., and Topic 5 – Effective Service Projects with RCC by PP Jorge Caparas, Trustee, RVC Foundation, D3830. /MP

What Makes Man Prosper, Nation Great?


by Ernesto T. Solidum


The Weekly Kapihan at Smokehauz Resto & Bar on September 24, 2011 discussed the topic: "Peace and Order, Key To Development". The guests are PNP provincial director Cornelio Defensor, Supt. Aden Lagradante and PO3 Julius Barrientos of Kalibo, and lady guest is Ms. Vicky Ramos-Antonino, provincial co-chair, Aklan Provincial Tourism Council.


Ms. Antonino bared the month of August 2011, tourists influx to Boracay totalled 623,000, a valid proof that there is no more off and peak season tourist arrival in Aklan. Of these, two-thirds are locals while one third are foreigners. She brushed aside current crime rate since they are just petty ones and the PNP is competent and trained to handle situations as in the past.


"Despite our infra inadequacies like sub-standard airports, national highway and Jetty Port, Aklan still manages to attract more tourists. I subscribed to the concept of Pres. Benigno S. Aquinos’ private, public partnership (PPP) in pursuing an aggressive, dynamic and sustainable development of tourism under RA 9593", Ms. Antonino declared. She is scheduled to address participants in the UN-World Tourism Organi-zation conference in Sihanoukville, Cambodia on October 3. This global eco-tourism meeting of 50 member countries will focus on climate change where the Philippines is ranked 6th among countries considered extremely at-risk.


According to Col. Defensor, "there is a dramatic drop of 55.7 percent of crime incidence in Aklan from 1,572 cases in 2010 to 695 in 2011. Boracay registered the highest share of 32 percent while Kalibo has 22 percent. Crime rate is closely associated with intense business activity and population growth. However, police visibility, capability and deterrence are able to disrupt, dismantle, and defeat criminal elements.


Boracay has 68 police personnel and urgently needs three police patrol cars to increase mobility. An ideal police to population ratio however is 1:500. There are two SWAT Teams organized to respond to terrorist attacks but lack necessary equipment, Defensor reported.


The bill of Cong. Joeben T. Miraflores on the issuance of free patent to landowners in Boracay who have occupied the land for 30 years is stirring a hornets’ nest. A major land controversy in Boracay is Brent International School whose 4,000 square meters campus was forcibly occupied by an unnamed lawyer together with 40 armed protesters belonging to the Tirol family. The PNP has no recourse but to keep its hands off since the case is now in court.


Supt. Lagradante reported the two cases of robbery incidents in Kalibo which appear to be peculiar since it happened during the daytime. Three others have same modus operandi done in Boracay. Kalibo PNP has two patrol cars and 54 personnel to keep peace and order among 80,000 residents.


PO3 Barrientos, a member of Task Force implementing ordinances is closely monitoring compliance to Municipal Ordinance No. 2004 or Solid Waste Management. Ban against establishments selling liquor to minors, internet video gaming during class hours and videoke joints employing minors are given close watch.


PNP Chief Dep. Director General Nicanor Bartolome has adopted a one strike policy against police chiefs who fail to act against all forms of criminal activities in their area of responsibility.


Women trafficking and sex offenders preying on women and minors are common in Boracay but seldom in Kalibo and other towns. Dr. Sundi Romine, Pres. of "Called to Rescue", an NGO said that 1 out of 10 trafficked children in the world is Filipino. Every 12 minutes a Filipino child is trafficked and abused. Col. Defensor reported the 10 suspects have been charged before the Provincial Prosecutor’s Office.


San Miguel Corp through Trans Aire Development Holdings Corp is investing $300 million for the re-development of Caticlan Airport. It will lengthen the existing runway of 950 meters to 2,500 meters while the width will be doubled from 30 to 60 meters to accommodate arrivals of three (3) million tourists a year according to Ramon Ang of SMC.


Ms. Antonino advised San Miguel Corp to be aware of the present realities as total tourist arrivals in the country is only 3.5 million per year. During Pres. Aquino’s state visit to China, he managed to reach an accord with authorities to bring in 2 million tourists to the Philippines by 2016, a good five years away.


Before luring in more tourists to Aklan, it is best to evaluate our airports. It is terribly congested since it serves both domestic and international flights resulting to frequent delays and passenger losses. It is distasteful that CAAP elevated Kalibo Domestic Airport into an international facility despite inadequacies of convenience for both airlines and passengers.


The US Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) has downgraded the Philippine Aviation sector from Rating I to II since December 2007. Safety is overriding concern particularly: a) Lack of qualified safety personnel, and b) absence of integrated info technology system to modernize data base. This proves all 86 airports in the country are below standard. Declaring open skies policy to attract more airline flights is actually a pipe dream.


Every Filipino citizen must be an agent of peace and order if we desire to be a prime tourist destination. This is a primordial responsibility apart from enjoyment privilege. If everyone is vigilant about wrongdoers or who threatens peace and order and makes proper report to authorities, there may be no need of a battalion of cops to enforce the laws.


Aklan has achieved relative peace and order for the last decade. Many thanks to our men in uniform. Realistic develop-ment and prosperity among Aklanons are yet to be achieved. Tourism must benefit the big majority which can only come among industrious people. Believe in diligence, creativeness, and determination. They make a man prosper and a nation great. /MP

President Aquino Visits Japan, Spends P20 Million


The government spent about P20 million for President Benigno Aquino III’s three-day working visit to Japan. He is expected to bring in at least $1 billion in fresh investments and more than 9 billion yen in official development assistance.


According to Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr., the President and his 63-member delegation flew to Japan on the invitation of the Japanese government Sunday morning Sept. 25 via a special commercial flight. 


Among the members of the Chief Executive’s official delegation are Secretaries Albert del Rosario – Foreign Affairs, Gregory Domingo – Trade and Industry, Cesar Purisima – Finance, Manuel Roxas II – Transportation and Communication, and Rene Almendras – Energy.


"In this trip, our President wishes to further advance our strategic cooperation with Japan, our friend for more than half a century now," Ochoa said. "We always look forward to stronger bilateral relations with one of our important partners in the region."
In Japan, President Aquino paid a state call on His Majesty Emperor Akihito and met with Japan’s new Prime Minister, Yoshihiko Noda and discussed a wide array of issues to further advance the two countries’ strategic partnership.


Other highlights of the President’s official working visit are the keynote speech at the Philippine Economic Forum and meetings with major business groups, among them Keidanren, Japan Business Federation, Japan-Tokyo Chambers of Commerce and Industry, and Japan Philippines Economic Cooperation Committee.


The Chief Executive also witnessed the signing of several memoranda of agreement on new investment projects in energy, mining, property development, automotive, ship-building and infrastructure development under the public-private partnership scheme. Top officials of big Japanese companies also met with the President.


President Aquino also met the Filipino community in Tokyo and in Miyagi, one of the prefectures in northeastern Japan hardest hit by the earthquake and tsunami on March 11.


According to Ochoa, the P20-million budget covers expenses for the special commercial flight, hotel accommodations, food, transportation, and telecommunications and equipment requirements.


President Aquino returned on Sept. 28. /MP

The Spy Who ‘Loves’ Me


by ALEX P. Vidal


When 24-year-old Evangeline "Vangie" Villan of Brgy. Caingin, La Paz, Iloilo City became my regular visitor at Sun Star editorial office sometime in 1997, our late former editor-in-chief, Ivan Suansing, became suspicious. 


Vangie would show up in the office at past five o’clock in the afternoon to bring me Glor’s hamburger and Coke in can, disappeared after several minutes, and returned after several hours. And stayed — until told to go home like a Manila Zoo food attendant doing an overtime, but would obey without any grumbling.


Ivan and I usually played blitz chess inside the office while our reporters — Ednalyn Belonio, Ruby Silubrico, and Lorelie Panis — were encoding their stories. Nelson Robles, editor of Super Balita, Sun Star’s Hiligaynon sister publication, was always out and would spot Villan waiting in a canteen downstairs.
 

DEALER

Vangie was a cellular phone dealer whose "clients" included then Narcotics Command (Narcom) director, Chief Inspector Wilfredo Reyes and former Police Pricinct 1 (PPI) director, Chief Inspector Ricardo Jomuad.


We first met months earlier at the PPI when I interviewed two inmates, a male and a female (names withheld because one of them is a Facebook friend), arrested earlier in a shabu buy-bust operation. Through police reporter Ruby Silubrico, the female detainee requested that I go to the police station myself to do the interview to confirm the veracity of their allegation of police brutality (police had laughed off this allegation and called it a "diversionary tactic").
 

THEFT
 

Vangie was at the PPI purportedly "to book a theft incident" involving their store which had been ransacked. She claimed she always read my articles "and I am glad that I finally saw you in person..."


This meeting happened several weeks after Reyes, who was also Belonio’s regular visitor at Sun Star, had been charged with drug trafficking by the Regional Presidential Task Group on Intelligence and Counter-intelligence headed by Maj. Jonas Sumagaysay. This was a major news at that time; imagine, the regional boss of a police agency tasked to run after illegal drugs accused of being a drug trafficker? 


Ivan didn’t trust my regular visitor. Publisher Marcos Villalon didn’t give a damn, but ordered to secure our back issues and other files located in the waiting area. 


Vangie would bring me chocolates, CDs, t-shirts, among other items, and invite me for a "walk outside." She once confided in Hiligaynon that "I have special feelings for you. Please don’t get mad at me. I may not have the opportunity to express this. I have something to confess, sir." I refused several times; I was busy with my press work. Gossipers in the marketing department, including then Tigbauan vice mayor Jesse Terre, had suspected a romantic liaison between us because they would bump into Vangie in the stairs as they went home, while Vangie was coming in. Terre took fancy of her one time and was flatly rebuked.


ACTUATION
 

Were Vangie’s actuations really motivated by love? I was in doubt. Was she a spy? I had reason to believe so. It was highly suspicious for a 24-year-old woman to shower a man she met only once with gifts and gives him attention like a long lost sweetheart while his officemates were watching — and gossiping.


Weeks later, on July 26, 2007, Vangie was found dead at Brgy. Malusgod, Pototan town, 34 kilometers away from Iloilo City. She had no more arms and legs, her body bore a sign of torture. Dr. Owen Lebaquin, Camp Delgado medico-legal expert, who autopsied the body, said she died when the back of her head had been struck with a hard object. She was not raped. Investigators led by Pototan police chief, Insp. Khasmer Desumangkop, said Vangie could have been eliminated by a drug syndicate. No arrest was made. 
 

WOMAN


I could not believe the woman who had professed her "love" to me weeks back was now gone and became the subject of news I was writing. 


When police gave me several file photos of Vangie smiling "during her leaner and more attractive days," as the caption screams, I had goose pimples. 


Vangie’s murder has remained unsolved after four years and two months. /MP

Sugilanon Ni Tita Linda


Ni Tita Linda Belayro


Nabungkag Nga Sumpa


Malipayon eon kunta ro mga pumueoyo it kaharian ni Haring Alpheus tongod natawo eon kanda ro isaeang ka prinsesa. Gwapahon ro eapsag, ogaling may bituon sa anang dahi.


Abo nga naga kangawa kon anong signos ro dueot ko rondayang bituon sa dahi it prinsesa, busa guin pangutana nanda sa andang orakulo agod matungkad ro minatuod-tuod nga bu-ot hambaeon. Suno sa orakulo, maka asawa ro prinsesa it halimaw, ogaling bisan halimaw mat-a hay mangin malipayon mat-a imaw sa rondayang halimaw.


Rondaya hay matabo sa ika-18 dag-ong ka adlawan ko prinsesa. Nagkasubo ro hari busa owa nanda guina paguwa-a ro prinsesa agod indi makita it maski sin-o man nga eaeaki. Masinueob-on ro prinsesa tongod matsa guina preso imaw sa isaeang ka tore it palasyo, owa it kahilwayan. Abo gid nga naga handum sa anang ka gwapa ogaling guina bantayan imaw it gwardiya parabil ro sangka tawo maka saka sa tore it palasyo.
Isaeang adlaw, samtang naga pahuway ro mga gwardiya, nakabati sanda it sadya-an nga musika nga matsa naga paya ag naga patoeog. Sa owa magbuhay, hakatoeogan ro tanan kutob sa nakabati. Sumaka sa tore ro naga kanta ag idto hakita ko prinsesa ro isaeang ka halimaw. Owa mat-a imaw mahadlok. Guin pasaylo pa nana ro halimaw. Halin kato, permi eon sanda nga nagakita.


Pag-abot it kaadlawan ko prinsesa pagtungtong sa ika-18 dag-ong edad, nag eaong imaw sa hari nga mag asawa eon. Hakibot ro hari kon sin-o ro anang nobyo. Guin pakilaea nana ro halimaw sa anang amang hari. Owa sanda it nahimo kundi magpasugot.


Ko gabi-i ngaron parabil sa oras ko andang kasae, nagbaylo ro dagway ko halimaw. Nangin gwapuhon imaw nga prinsipe. Guin sumpa gali imaw nga mabalik sa dati nanang anyo kon maka asawa imaw it babaye nga may bituon sa anang dahi. Nagkalipay ro tanan eabi guid ro prinsesa. /MP

DPWH Sec. Singson, A Gentleman With Iron Heart


"It is difficult for an honest man to work with the government." – The Bottomline



by MEGS S. LUNN



President Benigno S. Aquino, in his desire to clean up his government departments, appointed Sec. Rogelio Singson the Secretary of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).


Sec. Singson said in one of his interviews just recently, that government spending has slowdown in terms of infrastructure as they align their department to focus on what is right, to transform first his department in terms of values and culture on how to work honestly and rightfully.


As noted, DPWH is one of the Top 3 Most Corrupt departments and operators in the government. While Sec. Singson accepted the position and the job with open eyes and understood perfectly where he is getting into, it is also his utmost desire to work to help the government and Pres. Aquino clean up DPWH of corruption.


During Arroyo’s administration, the spending on infrastructure was very visible especially on the countryside development. But when her term ended, it is now the government’s contingent liabilities to finish what she started, like the CAMANAVA mega-flood control project. Sec. Singson is now after the contractor and designer of this project to hold them liable and to make some corrections and to eventually have it running again.


On transforming the culture in his department, Sec. Singson said, "we start internally and I mean business, for my allies are the people, the general public." Their strategies are to bring NGO’s and Civic Society to help watch DPWH projects. As government employees, they believed they are accountable to the general public. The public should observe and report anomalies of any project implementation in their area.


For one, Sec. Singson walks his talk. As government leader, he shows how to change and manage their negative attitude by visiting places and discouraging the overspending on fancy food preparation and reception. He brings his own water and crackers in the meetings. Sec. Singson is giving them the chance to mend their wrong ways so that the transformation will come from them, and that people will see in them how to behave properly in terms of attitude towards spending the tax money of the people.


Sec. Singson believes that in one year as Secretary of DPWH, he has lessened corruption to more than 10 percent. But he has a long way to go. DPWH has adopted the policy of "doing the right projects, at the right cost and with the right quality". The source of corruption begins from the bidding process where the people in the department do not know how to make project proposals, instead, they just ask for a budget.


He also reported that in 2014, all primary (national) roads of which we have about 31,000 kilometers around the Philippines will be completed, while the minor ones will be in 2016. Therefore, he is confident that corruption in his department can be reduced, if not totally eliminated.


Sec. Singson has a covenant with his country. By going out of his comfort zone and because he loves the Philippines so much, he vowed to serve God and country through his position as DPWH Secretary to contribute to nation building. /MP

Itemized Education Budget Prevents Protest


Sen. Chiz Escudero suggested the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) should itemize the lump sum entry in the 2012 budget for state universities and colleges (SUCs) to allay fears and doubts against the slash in funding.  


Last week, students and teachers across the country protested the cutback by P146 million in the proposed spending plan of SUCs for 2012.


DBM Secretary Florencio Abad Jr., however, said contrary to the protesters’ claim, SUC funding had been increased to P26.1 billion from this year’s P23.1 billion.
 

The proposed SUC budget for next year, Abad said, is broken down as follows: P23.1 billion for the automatic appropriation for SUCs; P2 billion to fill up vacancies lumped under the Miscellaneous and Personnel Benefit Funds (MPBF); and P500 million under the Committee on Higher education for SUC development.
 

Escudero said the lump sum entry of MPBF should be disaggregated to show the real budget for each agency.


"Transparency demands nothing less and lump sum allocation is the exact opposite of transparency. If DBM is able to explain how the University of the Philippines budget is itemized, it should also be able to show aggregates of other SUC budgets to prevent the protest and to actually show what and how much exactly goes to where," he pointed out.


"Whether contingent or not, the MPBF should be itemized, and not lumped to see how much each school is getting", Escudero stressed.


"It is sad that we have to argue about these things—budget for state universities. Why let our students fight for each and every peso in the education allocation when government should freely give it?" Escudero asked.


Protesters are calling for a P45-million budget for each SUC next year, an amount which the proposed budget cannot meet.

"The conditional cash transfer (CCT) program is investing an additional P16 billion on our greatest resource: our people. We should also invest the same in human capital by filling the gaps and keeping up with common education standards and mechanisms as a matter of state policy," Escudero said. /MP

Fordham University Confers Dr. of Laws To P-Noy


NEW YORK CITY: President Benigno S. Aquino III was conferred with the degree of Doctor of Laws, Honoris Causa, by Fordham, an independent university in the Jesuit tradition that was founded in 1841.


The conferment ceremony was held at 1 p.m., Monday, Sept. 19 at the Keating Hall in the University’s Rose Hill campus, Bronx, New York.


Filipino and Filipino-American students, Filipino community members, Filipino staff members in the United Nations, along with Filipinos and Fil-Ams in the academe, business, media and civil society organizations, Fordham faculty and staff witnessed the conferment.


"We’re all very excited. I mean as soon as we all got the news, we couldn’t believe that the president would be coming here," said Janine Vicente, one of the Filipino students at the university.


"His [President Aquino‘s] presence at Fordham just echoed the excitement of not even just the students but [also] the faculty," Vicente said during an interview done by RTVM. "We are all so excited."


Matthew Novick, also a Filipino student and the president of Fordham University Philippine-American Club (FUPAC) said, it is an "incredible opportunity" for them to see him.


Before the conferment rites, the President was escorted to the building step named after his mother, the late President Corazon Aquino, who was also conferred an honorary degree in September 1986 by Fordham.


The names of over 30 world leaders conferred honorary doctorate degrees are carved on the steps of the "Terrace of the Presidents" at Keating Hall as part of Fordham tradition. The President’s name will be carved next to that of his mother. /MP

AGI-ORSITE Conducts Aklan Cops Inspection


Aklan cops are the subjects of Annual General Inspection-Operational Readiness Security Inspection Test and Evaluation (AGI-ORSITE) this week, Sept. 26 – 29.


AGI-ORSITE team from the Regional Internal Affairs Service is now evaluating the Aklan Provincial Office (APPO) including its 17 municipal stations, the Boracay Special Tourist Protection Office and the Aklan Public Safety Company.


Senior Inspector Ignacio Cabanalan is the overall team leader of the annual general inspection in Aklan. This team will look into the effectiveness and capabilities of police personnel on different scenarios such as arrest-search and handcuffing techniques, conduct of checkpoints, hostage taking negotiation, proper conduct of first-aid and scene of the crime operations.


AGI-ORSITE is an annual inspection of police units throughout the country to determine the readiness of the police force on administrative and operational compliance.


APPO police director senior superintendent Cornelio T Defensor said, the annual inspection will evaluate the performance of uniformed and non-uniformed police per-sonnel, to measure their preparedness to respond to emergencies, and their mastery of the basic knowledge on police mission, duties and functions.


Defensor reported the entrance briefing, rank, and office inspection are held on Monday, September 26 at Aklan PPO Multi-Purpose Hall, Camp Pastor Martelino, New Buswang, Kalibo, Aklan.


The PNP uses AGI as its feedback mechanism on how policemen in the country developed their performance.


Police Arrests Drugs Pusher


On the other hand, a joint PNP elements of Aklan PPO Provincial Anti-Illegal Drugs Operation Task Group (PAID-SOTG) and Kalibo police station led by SPO2 Arc Gonzales and SPO2 Reynaldo Macario successfully arrested one suspected pusher in a buy-bust operation at Corner C. Laserna St and 19th Martyrs St.,Kalibo, Aklan on Saturday, Sept. 24.


The suspect is identified as Noli "Nonoy" Tayco y Santoyo, 38 years old, married, tailor and a resident of Purok – 1, C. Laserna St., Kalibo, Aklan. He was collared after a positive transaction thru police asset which resulted to the recovery from suspect’s possession and control one piece five hundred peso bill (marked money); one piece disposable lighter; one unit Nokia cell phone; P650 cash; and one piece small heat-sealed transparent plastic sachet with suspected shabu (recovered from asset/poseur buyer)


Noli Tayco was brought to the Kalibo Police Station prior to inquest case to Aklan Prosecutor’s Office.


In Madalag, PNP elements led by Chief of police inspector Belshazzar Villanoche arrested one suspect for violation of Illegal possession of firearms and ammunition in violation of Republic Act 8294 at Brgy Paningayan, Madalag, Aklan on Sept. 24 at about 3:00 dawn.


The suspect was identified as Joseph Rommel Salazar y Nacionales, 43 years old, married, driver and a resident of said Brgy Paningayan.


Villanoche reported one caliber 45 pistol (Norinco) SNR BA17163-08-246 with one magazine and three live ammunitions were confiscated from Salazar’s possession and control while conducting ocular inspection around the multi-purpose pave-ment of said barangay in connection with their fiesta celebration.


Salazar has no legal authority to possess and carry said firearm. He was brought to Madalag police station for proper disposition. /MP

Pedring Slows Down Floods Hit Several Areas


After crossing the rugged Sierra Madre terrain, typhoon, ‘Pedring’ (International name: NESAT) has slowed down but will continue to batter several parts of the country.


In its 11:00 am Tuesday bulletin, Sept. 27 the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services (Pagasa) said Pedring is located 100 kilometers east of Baguio City, with maximum sustained winds of 120 kph, 20 kilometers less its previous strength, and now with gustiness of 150, moving at 19 kph. Pagasa said rainfall estimate is 15-25 mm per hour.


Signal # 3 is raised in the following areas: Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, Abra, Kalinga, Mt. Province, Ifugao, Benguet, La Union, Nueva Viscaya, Pangasinan. Signal # 2 is raised in Apayao Cagayan, Isabela, Quirino, Nueva Ecija, Zambales, Pampanga, Tarlac, Bulacan, Bataan, Metro Manila Signal # 1: Babuyan, Calayan group of Islands, Northern Quezon, Polillo Island, Rizal, Laguna, Batangas, Lubang Island, and Cavite.


"Residents in low lying and mountainous areas under Public Storm Warning Signals are alerted against possible flashfloods and landslides. Likewise, those living in coastal areas are alerted against big waves or storm surges generated by this tropical cyclone," Pagasa said in its advisory.


In Manila, floods have


been reported along major thoroughfare. Floods reached chest-high near the Luneta park, a radio dzMM report said. Employees of the U.S. embassy were evacuated. A news report said at least 30 vehicles were affected as basement parking area in Sofitel hotel got flooded.


Leg-high flood waters were also reported inside Ospital ng Maynila. The hospital management appealed for portable generators after a power interruption hit the area.

Deputy presidential spokesman Abigail Valte earlier announced the suspension of work in all government offices Tuesday, Sept. 27 while Palace spokesman Edwin Lacierda announced the suspension covers only NCR, Regions 1, 2, 3, CAR, Batangas Cavite, Rizal and Laguna. Classes from preschool to college have been suspended in those areas. /MP

Thursday, September 22, 2011

EDITORIAL


Growth of SME’s Depends On

Commitment And Strategy


by Ernesto T. Solidum


The Asian Development Bank forecast, the Philippines’ Gross Domestic Product (GDP) will reach 4.7 percent this year instead of 5.1 on account of sluggish exports, public under spending and lacklustre job creation.


The Weekly Kapihan forum on September 17, 2011 discussed local issue with provincial Economic Managers who are Jarius M. Lachica, Provincial Director, DOST, Blas M. Solidum – Provincial Census Officer, Ely G. Arensol – TESDA, Vivian Ruiz Solano – Provincial PESO Manager, Stella R. Caldera, TIDS, and Rosalie A. Panganiban, TIDS–DTI, and Roselle Q. Ruiz – Provincial Tourism Officer.


Ms. Caldera said, their August 2011 report revealed Aklan exports grew from $.20 million in 2010 to $.94 million or 369 percent over last year. Investments rose from P126.76 million to P197.31 million or 47 percent higher for the same period. Robust performance came from nitto, natural fibers: abaca-silk, and piña handicraft, woodcraft all consigned to the US and Japan. Domestic sales are yet to catch up with P114.92 million during the period, lower than 11.5 percent than last year. The same is true with jobs generation of 2,855 or negative 3.5 percent.


As to new businesses registered, there is a total of 997 and 198 renewed.


Ruiz revealed that provincial tourism receipts as of August 31, 2011 totalled P11.53 billion. This is broken down into P7.93 billion representing 229,444 foreigners and P5.30 billion locals numbering 398,167. Compared to the same period last year, there is a nine percent increase in tourist arrivals due to the upgraded KIA facility and increased flights frequency from Beijing, Hangchow, Taipei, and Fusan.


Due to the influx of tourists, DOT is conducting socio-economic profiling to know better clientele needs and preferences. Foreign tourists stay at an average of 8.3 days and spend P4,166 while locals stay 4.7 days and spend P2,833, Ruiz declared.


Solano reported PESO Aklan recently has sent 82 contractual overseas jobs in Hongkong, Kuwait, and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, majority of whom are Nurses, Caregivers, Masons, Cooks, and Domestic Helpers. Records show, four fifths or 8 of every 10 applicants fail in the job interview.


A number of hotels, banks, and shopping malls are in need of qualified cashiers, tellers, cooks, waiters, waitresses, and clerks reported the Lady Manager.


Lachica revealed DOST is into technology transfer and commercialization. It has agencies implementing its vision and mission particularly in development and strengthening of Small and Medium Enterprises (SME’s) like: a) food processing industry, b) manufacturing – metalcraft, woodcraft, bamboocraft, handicraft (abaca – piña, loom weaving and mat weaving, and c) agriculture and fisheries – high value crops and aquaculture.


DOST is engaged in upgrading business operation like financing acquisition of machines, improvement of manufacturing process, and right packaging materials. Loans from P50,000 to P2 million based on the need of clientele at no interest, and payable within 3 years are available.


There is funding release of P428,000 worth of equipment for bamboocraft in Malinao, P302,200 – bariw impacting machine for palm weavers in Nabas, and P400,000 for Fiber Development in coordination with ASU. DOST will strengthen the capability of small businessmen producing coco sugar with initial purchase order from Norway of 4 tons every two months. According to Lachica, Iloilo and Negros are already into commercial production of fruit wines from duhat and mangoes.


Arensol reported TESDA is involved in vocational skills program at its Training center in Laguinbanwa, Numancia. Scholarship is offered to all high school graduates who passed the competency test. Courses that are in demand here and abroad are given emphasis. For those now employed but without proper proficiency credentials, TESDA will give them opportunity to pass competency assessment that entitles them to a stable professional career.


Solidum announced, there is no official NSO confirmation yet on Aklan’s population. However, it is more than 500,000. According to Solidum, considering Aklan’s tourism potentials, it is a wrong notion to concentrate it wholly to Boracay. Other scenic spots like hidden caves and waterfall of Buruanga, Tangalan, and Ibajay have quaint potentials awaiting discovery.


Considering agriculture, the contribution to the national GDP, Agriculture representation was not in the forum. More than half of labor force is in agriculture and fisheries. Therefore, the overall economic picture of Aklan cannot be ascertained. Performance wise, the P14.2 billion in annual tourism receipts do not filter to the local economy. High poverty incidence of 38.1 percent force families to avail of conditional cash transfer. Underemployment and unemployment are more pervasive.


DOST, TESDA, and DTI complement each other in export and job generation. Market exposure for engineered bamboo, nitto, abaca, piña and coco sugar is very promising. Maintenance of high quality standard will go a long way to expand in traditional and non-traditional markets.


Marketing tourism strategy of Aklan surprisingly relies solely on word of mouth. There is no comprehensive Aklan Tourists promotion project, the reason why tourism development like Sto. Niño Ati-Atihan is eclipsed by Dinagyang and Sinulog. Tourism in Aklan is trailing behind Palawan by 22 percent in 2008. Obviously more cultural shows, museum exhibit, outdoor sports like water rafting cliff hanging and bike tours must be regularly held.


Aklan may have positive and comparative edge as to generation of revenues in industrial exports, agricultural and fisheries and tourism. The growth of SME’s is on the right track but high fuel prices, labor, and sluggish world market demand may weaken it. Strong commitment, dedication, and sound business strategy are needed to survive this crisis. /MP

EDITORIAL


Growth of SME’s Depends On
Commitment And Strategy


by Ernesto T. Solidum


The Asian Development Bank forecast, the Philippines’ Gross Domestic Product (GDP) will reach 4.7 percent this year instead of 5.1 on account of sluggish exports, public under spending and lacklustre job creation.


The Weekly Kapihan forum on September 17, 2011 discussed local issue with provincial Economic Managers who are Jarius M. Lachica, Provincial Director, DOST, Blas M. Solidum – Provincial Census Officer, Ely G. Arensol – TESDA, Vivian Ruiz Solano – Provincial PESO Manager, Stella R. Caldera, TIDS, and Rosalie A. Panganiban, TIDS–DTI, and Roselle Q. Ruiz – Provincial Tourism Officer.


Ms. Caldera said, their August 2011 report revealed Aklan exports grew from $.20 million in 2010 to $.94 million or 369 percent over last year. Investments rose from P126.76 million to P197.31 million or 47 percent higher for the same period. Robust performance came from nitto, natural fibers: abaca-silk, and piña handicraft, woodcraft all consigned to the US and Japan. Domestic sales are yet to catch up with P114.92 million during the period, lower than 11.5 percent than last year. The same is true with jobs generation of 2,855 or negative 3.5 percent.


As to new businesses registered, there is a total of 997 and 198 renewed.

Ruiz revealed that provincial tourism receipts as of August 31, 2011 totalled P11.53 billion. This is broken down into P7.93 billion representing 229,444 foreigners and P5.30 billion locals numbering 398,167. Compared to the same period last year, there is a nine percent increase in tourist arrivals due to the upgraded KIA facility and increased flights frequency from Beijing, Hangchow, Taipei, and Fusan.


Due to the influx of tourists, DOT is conducting socio-economic profiling to know better clientele needs and preferences. Foreign tourists stay at an average of 8.3 days and spend P4,166 while locals stay 4.7 days and spend P2,833, Ruiz declared.


Solano reported PESO Aklan recently has sent 82 contractual overseas jobs in Hongkong, Kuwait, and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, majority of whom are Nurses, Caregivers, Masons, Cooks, and Domestic Helpers. Records show, four fifths or 8 of every 10 applicants fail in the job interview.


A number of hotels, banks, and shopping malls are in need of qualified cashiers, tellers, cooks, waiters, waitresses, and clerks reported the Lady Manager.


Lachica revealed DOST is into technology transfer and commercialization. It has agencies implementing its vision and mission particularly in development and strengthening of Small and Medium Enterprises (SME’s) like: a) food processing industry, b) manufacturing – metalcraft, woodcraft, bamboocraft, handicraft (abaca – piña, loom weaving and mat weaving, and c) agriculture and fisheries – high value crops and aquaculture.


DOST is engaged in upgrading business operation like financing acquisition of machines, improvement of manufacturing process, and right packaging materials. Loans from P50,000 to P2 million based on the need of clientele at no interest, and payable within 3 years are available.


There is funding release of P428,000 worth of equipment for bamboocraft in Malinao, P302,200 – bariw impacting machine for palm weavers in Nabas, and P400,000 for Fiber Development in coordination with ASU. DOST will strengthen the capability of small businessmen producing coco sugar with initial purchase order from Norway of 4 tons every two months. According to Lachica, Iloilo and Negros are already into commercial production of fruit wines from duhat and mangoes.


Arensol reported TESDA is involved in vocational skills program at its Training center in Laguinbanwa, Numancia. Scholarship is offered to all high school graduates who passed the competency test. Courses that are in demand here and abroad are given emphasis. For those now employed but without proper proficiency credentials, TESDA will give them opportunity to pass competency assessment that entitles them to a stable professional career.


Solidum announced, there is no official NSO confirmation yet on Aklan’s population. However, it is more than 500,000. According to Solidum, considering Aklan’s tourism potentials, it is a wrong notion to concentrate it wholly to Boracay. Other scenic spots like hidden caves and waterfall of Buruanga, Tangalan, and Ibajay have quaint potentials awaiting discovery.


Considering agriculture, the contri-bution to the national GDP, Agriculture representation was not in the forum. More than half of labor force is in agriculture and fisheries. Therefore, the overall economic picture of Aklan cannot be ascertained. Performance wise, the P14.2 billion in annual tourism receipts do not filter to the local economy. High poverty incidence of 38.1 percent force families to avail of conditional cash transfer. Underemployment and unemployment are more pervasive.


DOST, TESDA, and DTI complement each other in export and job generation. Market exposure for engineered bamboo, nitto, abaca, piña and coco sugar is very promising. Maintenance of high quality standard will go a long way to expand in traditional and non-traditional markets.


Marketing tourism strategy of Aklan surprisingly relies solely on word of mouth. There is no comprehensive Aklan Tourists promotion project, the reason why tourism development like Sto. Niño Ati-Atihan is eclipsed by Dinagyang and Sinulog. Tourism in Aklan is trailing behind Palawan by 22 percent in 2008. Obviously more cultural shows, museum exhibit, outdoor sports like water rafting cliff hanging and bike tours must be regularly held.


Aklan may have positive and comparative edge as to generation of revenues in industrial exports, agricultural and fisheries and tourism. The growth of SME’s is on the right track but high fuel prices, labor, and sluggish world market demand may weaken it. Strong commitment, dedication, and sound business strategy are needed to survive this crisis. /MP

Entrepreneurial Farmer


Ambrosio R. Villorente


Review Aklan Hymn


After the Aklan provincial government approved the provincial ordinance directing all government offices to sing the "Aklan Hymn" in their respective civic programs like during an opening of a training program and radio stations in Aklan to play regularly the Aklan Hymn, several munici-palities has also adopted their respective municipal hymns.


To my mind, the adoption of a provincial hymn is aimed to inculcate love and loyalty to Aklan among the people.


However, the lyrics of the song seem unable to reflect and embody the general aspiration of the Aklanons. Limited comments on the hymn were received. They said, there was no discussion made among the cross section of the people, the Aklanons in particular before the approval of the Aklan Hymn by the Aklan Sangguniang Panlalawigan. They were not consulted in the making of the hymn. As a result, municipal hymns had been evolving. The municipalities like New Washington, Madalag, and Buruanga had composed their respective hymns.


With this development, it is coming out that there is now a developing disunity among the towns regarding the Aklan Hymn.


A hymn is a song of praise and glorification. Perhaps these muni-cipalities believe they are neither praise nor glorified by the present Aklan Hymn. Hence, they are adopting their own town hymn.


A listener has pointed out to this column one thing. They disagree on "Ati". Why Ati? Ati does not exist in most parts of Aklan.


There is a need to review the present Aklan Hymn with the view to amend its lyrics to praise and glorify Aklan province wide. This can be done by submitting the Aklan Hymn for discussion to the wide spectrum of the Aklanons from Altavas to Buruanga to Libacao. There will be general and wider acceptance if the big majority of the people has participated in its process of decision making.
 

Thing of Beauty


John Keats said "A thing of beauty is a joy forever". Wow! Beauty is a joy forever! Who will disagree with John Keats? Only those callous people; those who cannot appreciate color, behavior, appearance; those who are senseless.


Beauty is a quality attributed to whatever pleases or satisfies the senses or mind, as by line, color, form, texture, proportion, rhythmic mind.


With this definition, is Kalibo a thing of beauty? They say, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Who are the beholders? They are those who beautify Kalibo, or those that make Kalibo ugly and or those who do nothing.


Is Roxas Avenue pretty? Look straight, there are vulcanizing shops, cars parked for sale, motor repair shops, goods displayed for sale on the sidewalk and electric posts standing by the road, serving as road hazard. Look up to see the black spaghetti made of rubber and metal without sauce.


Hold a program in Magsaysay Park so that before your guest speaker delivers his message, one from the Kalibo Municipal Hall will check if you have the required permit to hold your program.
 

IRON DEFICIENCY


In Western Visayas which includes Aklan, six (6) of 10 pregnant women and four (4) out of 10 lactating. mothers are anemic and iron deficient. This is according to the findings in the latest survey of the Food and Nutrition Research Institute.


Moreover, the same survey found "four (4) of 10 pregnant women as well as three (3) out of 10 lactating mothers and two (2) in every 10 children under five years old are anemic.
Most Filpinos lack iodine, vitamin A, and minerals in their daily diet. These nutrition deficiencies are the results of the absence of vegetables and iron rich food, bad eating habits, and improper food preparation.


There is urgent need to improve the daily diet of the people in order to stop poor pregnancy outcomes, maternal child deaths, and impaired physical and cognitive development of children. /MP

Aklan SP Approves Duty-Free Outlet In KIA


During its 31st Regular Session, the Aklan Sangguniang Panlalawigan, on Wednesday, Sept. 21, 2011, finally approved the establishment of a duty-free outlet at the Kalibo International Airport (KIA) by Duty Free Philippines Corporation.


The approval came after the thorough evaluation of the Committee on Laws, Rules and Ordinances and Committee on Trade and Tourism which met on a committee hearing on Monday, Sept. 19, 2011. Representatives of the Duty-Free Philippines Maria Gilda R. San Juan, Store Operation Manager and Atty. Rosalie B. Dinoy, Research and Document Manager as well as the CAAP representative Minerva T. Acosta were present in the committee hearing.


SP member Jose Enrique Miraflores sponsored the said resolution to establish a duty-free-shop in the KIA


In Resolution No. 2011-229, Miraflores cited the operation of the said outlet will further boost the revenues of the government, and enhance its competitiveness in terms of airport operation standard.


"In the interest of meeting the needs of tourists and returning Filipinos (balikbayans) transiting the KIA, there is a need for a duty-free outlet to serve the arriving and departing tourists and balikbayans", Miraflores stressed.


Miraflores further reiterated, duty free outlet will enhance tax collection efforts and promote employment among Aklanons. (By Richie D. Oloroso) /MP

Fighting Poverty In Libacao And Madalag

by ERNESTO T. SOLIDUM



A total of P22 million worth of infra projects and social services are in the pipeline stage of implementation by Kalahi–CIDSS to buttress poverty in the otherwise rich countryside of Aklan. This follows a Memorandum of Agreement contract signing entered into between Gov. Carlito S. Marquez of Aklan and key officials of Millennium Development Corporation (MDC) and Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in July 2011. Priority target intervention are Libacao and Madalag which are previously identified by National Statistics Coordinating Board (NSCB) to have serious poverty incidence of more than 30 percent.


Kapit Bisig Laban Sa Kahirapan Comprehensive Integrated Development Social Services (Kalahi-CIDDS) is community–based program aimed to: a) empower community, b) improve local governance, and c) reduce poverty. Mr. Leo I. Quantilla, dep. regional project manager said that program has a span of three years with indicative grant of P450,000 per barangay per year. Need base funding is envisioned to provide vital infra and social/technical services for the poor and strengthen capacity resolve of communities to rid the scourge of poverty.


Projects implementation is hands on, more focused on problem solving and community involvement. Internalization of goals and objectives by every individual in a group is key to people empowerment. Basically, it takes six months of community immersion in the program before a project is actually started. This is done through a series of planning workshops conducted at barangay and municipal levels. Documentation is facilitated by two Area Coordinators who are Ms. Mary Grace Centena for Madalag and Mr. Renante Lasay – Libacao.


All 24 barangays of Libacao under Mayor Charito Navarosa have endorsed projects for implementation which are river wall protection, farm to market roads, rehabilitation of damaged irrigation system and hanging bridges. On the other hand, Madalag with 25 barangays under Mayor Rex Gubatina has yet to submit their report. Equity contribution of LGU’s to the project constitutes 30 percent (usually taken from IRA) as part of collective effort to insure people participation and success.


It is expected that actual project implementation shall commence by early January 2012. Simultaneously, Kalahi–CIDDS shall expand to five other municipalities which are Makato, Batan, New Washington, Tangalan, and Ibajay, all coastal sub-urban areas. As a result of stream-lining operations adopting transparency and accountability, earlier Kalahi–CIDDS program of DND and DAR are terminated and funds reverted to DSWD.


In its September 11, 2011 accomplishment report, priority provinces like Iloilo, Capiz, and Negros Occidental have either completed or partially finished projects that amounted to P1.31 billion funded by the World Bank.


Aklan which started barely two months ago hopefully will catch up with her neighbors with additional push by the Pantawid Pampamilya Pilipino Program also administered by DSWD. MDC is funded by the US government in the amount of $120 million as a pledge under the UN Millennium Development goals to reduce poverty incidence by 50 percent in 2015. /MP

RP To Monitor Mining Revenues


The Aquino adminis-tration is taking steps to ensure profit generated by mining companies translate into state revenues and that mining benefits trickle down to the general public. Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. said this on Wednesday last week in a speech at the Mining Philippines 2011 Conference and Exhibition held in Pasay City. Ochoa revealed "the country’s intention to apply for compliance status with the London-based Extractive Industry Transparency Initiative (EITI) to help achieve the much-needed reforms in the mining industry."


EITI is a global initiative that requires participating governments to publicly report the revenues they receive from extractive industry companies and for those companies to publicly report the revenues they pay to government to allow more transparency in revenue reporting.


"High on our agenda is transparency in revenues derived from mining," Ochoa said, as he pointed out the need to determine how the mining sector contributes to sustainable development.


"Further reforms are therefore needed to ensure that the acceptability of mining is enhanced and its impact as a driver of economic growth is truly felt," he added.


Data from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources show mining contributed P110 billion to the gross domestic product and generated P12.5 billion in tax revenues, royalties and fees for the government last year.
 

Ochoa said the country’s EITI candidacy and subsequent membership is consistent with the "vision of good governance" of the Aquino administration


"It will be a strong manifestation of transparency if the payments and revenues received by the government from the development of the country’s mineral resources and how these are utilized are made public," Ochoa told the industry players who comprise the Chamber of Mines of the Philippines present in the conferenece.
 

The Executive Secretary said that while the Mining Act of 1995 has put in place environmental and safety nets to address mining concerns, efforts must be stepped up for awareness and strict compliance of the law.


He underscored the need to strike a balance between mining and protecting the environ-ment and natural resources toward achieving enhanced social acceptability of mining operations.
 

Aware that the Philippine mining industry is the subject of intense scrutiny by various sectors, Ochoa called on industry players to overcome the negative stigma attached to mining and to continue to work hard to gain public acceptability.

"But done in a manner that takes into consideration the importance of safeguarding the environment so that mining can contribute significantly both to sustained economic development and poverty reduction in the countryside," Ochoa said. He cited the case of countries like Canada, Australia and Chile where mining has contributed to economic growth and development.

"For mining to be acceptable, it must be guided by the principles of sustainable development, environmental protection, social equity and, of course, good governance," Mining must also be pursued alongside other economic activities that are com-patible with it, including agriculture and eco-tourism," Ochoa suggested.
 

He spoke on behalf of President Benigno Aquino III. He acknowledged the mining industry’s commit-ment and participation in the National Greening Program (NGP), pursuant to Executive Order No. 26 signed on February 24, 2011.
 

Far from the usual reforestation program, NGP is a government priority program that aims to curb poverty, promote food security, environmental stability and biodiversity conservation, and enhance climate change mitigation and adaptation.
 

The NGP also seeks to substantially increase the number of trees nationwide to improve water quality in rivers and irrigation for farm lands, reduce the potential for flooding, soak up carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere, and lay the foundation for an expanded wood-products economy.

"The program specifically seeks to plant 1.5 billion seedlings in 1.5 million hectares of public lands nationwide in 6 years, from 2011 to 2016—more than twice the govern-ment’s accomplishment for the past 25 years estimated at 730,000 hectares," Ochoa said.


It is a "step in the right direction" and a "clear manifestation of corporate social responsibility" the commitment of the mining industry to reforest 34,000 hectares over the next three years.
 

The figure will be "over and above the number of trees to be planted and maintained as part of the mining contractor’s obligation to rehabilitate mining-affected lands. /MP

Innovative and Practical Farmer Makes Good


by ERNESTO T. SOLIDUM


Mr. Edwin P. Jimenez showing his harvest of cucumbers. (Blitz S. Tolosa photo)




Mr. Edwin P. Jimenez, 61 of Mabilo, New Washington, for the last eight years has been busy dividing his time for JL Enterprises as Manager-Proprietor and farming. It is typical workload concentrating in the Provincial Capitol, Kalibo, Aklan and doing odd farm job during weekend. As former OFW, he is successful in refrigeration and air conditioning operation, and maintenance of cars, airport terminal building, luxury hotel and business establishments.


However, he neglected to manage his 1.1 hectares orchard and small rice farm that caused poor production. Shortly after his four children finished college, he promptly turned over the management of family business to them while he devoted himself to active farming since it is "his calling".


He noted that the production average of 4.5 tons per hectare from his 7,000 square meters rice farm provided very low margin of profit. This was caused by his heavy reliance on inorganic fertilizers and pesticides. Per bag of urea cost P1,400 at that time. While the price of palay was pegged at P17.00 per kilogram, the cost of certified seed, labor especially land preparation and transplanting skyrocketed disproportionably higher.


To him, solving the high cost of production inputs became a priority. Being a computer literate, he learned invaluable technical knowledge particularly on vermiculture, organic com-posting, integrated nutrient and pest management. He also learned carbon rice hull production (CHR) right in his farm house. Being wired to the internet and having a cellphone, he has direct contacts with authorities on recommended farm technologies. "It is sheer guts and determination to apply matured technologies at the farm level being handicapped by required education and training," Jimenez confided.


Going full stream on manufacturing his own organic fertilizer with manure from his backyard piggery, purchased cattle and poultry litter and CRH he substantially reduced his production expenses specially on inorganic fertilizers by one-half. He now produces vermicast and vermitea, the latter sold to fellow farmers at P20.00 per liter. Jimenez recommends the use of commercial organic liquid fertilizer, "Masinag" that acts also as pesticide.


Last July 2011, Jimenez was unanimously elected President of Farmers Field School (FFS) a season long training of Department of Agriculture conducted by Agricultural Training Institute. He has planted rice hybrids all high yielding varieties, well adapted to local soil and climate. Standing crop is at soft to hard sough stage and promises an estimated yield of 6.5 tons per hectare. Jimenez has shown consistency and skill both in farming theory and practice. He is much sought after as resource speaker during farmer’s meeting and seminars. Neighbouring farmers also come to visit his farm regularly either to observe, buy vegetables, farm chemicals or consult on specific problems.


His latest challenge is to convert 1,300 square meters portion of his irrigated ricefield to vegetables having waterlogged and heavy clay soil.


There is no other alternative location except the one closed to his farmhouse. Undaunted, he successfully managed to grow a variety of vegetables for the local market. He is lucky to hire an experienced vegetable farmer from Quezon City who now supervises the culture of green onions, pechay, sweet pepper, hot pepper, sitao, eggplant, cucumber, ampalaya, and lettuce. He employs three full time laborers tending vegetables on elevated plots and trellises. Irrigation comes from a deep well pumped by a 7.0 horsepower gasoline engine. He is much convinced, he earns more from vegetables than from any other crops.


What is the reason of the success of Jimenez in vegetable growing?


"Well, I believe that in Saudi Arabia where it is all desert, they can grow all sorts of vegetables and fruit trees using scientific farming methods. By inference I invested heavily on applying 150 bags CRH plus organic fertilizers to convert heavy soil texture into a more friable one. Four units of CRH burners fabricated in our machine shop proved handy. Usually, I assign one labourer to do the job of hauling rice hull from ricemills for free and converting them into carbon. Practically, it is a continuous process of judicious fertilizer application and soil conditioning that optimum yields could be realized," said the farmer entrepreneur Jimenez.


For pest control, a mix of several kinds of vegetables grown in an area minimizes ravage of pest and diseases. It is known that green onions and pepper emit organic compounds that repel most insects. In some cases, Masinag is sprayed to repel pests since vegetables have critical standard of chemical sprays affecting human health. Moreover, I planted border rows to lemon grass (tanglad) and marigold, the former oftentimes used as spice for ginataang manok", Jimenez revealed.


Jimenez believes farming is profitable, satisfying and prophylactic for innovative and practical men. He loves his job and very enthusiastic learner of recent trends in agricultural research both local and abroad. He came to know the minus one fertilizer techniques via the internet and came out with a perfect score during the pre-evaluation exams of the FFS. Whether inducing out of season flowering of mangoes, vermiculture, vermitea, or tapping alcohol from fuel wood. Jimenez stands ready to help local farmers advance their common goal. This personal trait is what makes him extraordinary and resilient. Jimenez is one of the very few people who had mastered the art of doing it. /MP

Foiling Abduction of Ilonggo Editor


by ALEX P. Vidal


It has been 21 years since our colleague, former News Express editor Teopisto "Pet" Melliza, escaped from would-be abductors by the skin of the teeth one afternoon on July 6, 1990 outside our editorial office at the Immaculate Concepcion Bldg., Ledesma St., Iloilo City.


Had it not been for staff writer Fems Pedregosa’s cleverness and our presence of mind (we call it "grace under pressure") during the crisis, Atty. Pet Melliza would have been "captured" and God knows what would have happened next.


It was actually a combination of luck, right timing and a little guts on the part of Fems, who bravely faced and confused the pony tailed male visitor we learned later to be one of the hired killers that arrived from Mindanao with task "to abduct the editor of News Express and teach him a lesson (this statement had been confirmed by former Zarraga mayor Orlando Lacson)."

 
LESSON
 

What lesson? Lacson told a small group of "trusted" reporters (he must have trusted me also because I was there) months later in the ballroom of Hotel del Rio that the would-be abductors had been dispatched by a political warlord in the fifth district of Iloilo "in sympathy" with then San Miguel mayor Simeon Suero, who was on warpath with News Express.


According to Lacson, Suero was "fuming mad" when he narrated to the political warlord how News Express had "tarnished my reputation as mayor of San Miguel."  


Suero was referring to a headline story a week before the foiled abduction in the paper’s Hiligayon section entitled "Mayor namago, baylehan naputo" (Benefit dance went bankrupt when mayor didn’t pay) which he claimed had pictured him in bad light.
 

KILLINGS
 

Even after Marcos fell and President Tita Cory assumed power, extra judicial killings continued unabated victimizing mostly political activists and community journalists.


Lacson admitted he was privy to the plot as he was present when Suero and the political warlord discussed the abduction. In fact, Lacson didn’t oppose the plan, he said, as he also had a score to settle with the newspaper, which had criticized him along with a hard-hitting DYBQ Radyo Budyong anchorman (was it Rani Jangayo?) as protector of illegal gambling in his town.


At this juncture, Jangayo’s colleague, the late broadcaster Tony Laniog, who had one drink too many, berated Lacson. "Yots, ano kamo mamatay taga media? Patyanay na lang ta di ho" (So you want to kill us, mediamen? We might as well start killing each other here). Gus Bacabac, a former Capitol official and friend of both Lacson and some media-men present, pacified Laniog. "Ton, tama na ina. Hinaya lang tingog mo" (Ton, that’s enough. Just minimize your voice).


TENSE


The situation became tense when Lacson stopped talking and turned his back like looking for somebody. One Francis Terania later approached and whispered something to Lacson. Bacabac pointed his finger at Terania and ordered him in a loud voice to "Go out! You are not included here."


Lacson and everyone in the group knew Laniog, then president of Capitol press corps, had a .45 caliber gun tucked in his waist. The atmosphere was so tension-filled that everyone started leaving as soon as silence beckoned. "Upod lang ta ya pre puli a (I will go with you, buddy)," the late Alex Sumagaysay, a colleague of Laniog and Jangayo, told me. No untoward incident happened. We dispersed at past 1 o’clock in the morning.


Atty. Melliza had nothing to do whatsoever with Suero’s supposed agony. It was Fems, in charge of the Hiligaynon page, who wrote the story about the benefit dance after being tipped off by an SK official whose association had hosted the benefit dance. 


In the SK official’s allegations, Suero and his bodyguards did not pay when they entered the dance hall. Because many of them were armed, residents who wanted to join the dance, shied away. 


UPSTAIRS



The visitor, who was allowed to go upstairs by printing press workers, was looking for Pet. Fems became suspicious when he refused to give details about his purpose, and did not identify himself. She excused herself from the visitor and whispered to me, "Lex, sugataa to si Pet sa dalum  e kon e nga indi anay magsaka kay diskompiado gid ko sa tawo nga ini (Lex, go wait for Pet downstairs and tell him not to enter our office yet because I don’t trust this guy here)."


I went downstairs and saw the visitor’s other cohorts some 50 meters away (their vehicle was parked near a barber shop) from the Malones Printing Press. They were restless and looking from one direction to another like fans in a "live" tennis match. 


I went back inside and exited through the back door (going to the now Mary Mart Mall) where I met the unsuspecting editor. "Pet, indi ka anay magsaka kay delikado (Pet, don’t go upstairs yet; it’s dangerous)," I told the editor. We left the area.


The thugs had to endure about two to three hours waiting for nothing. They left empty handed.


While we were drinking coffee at Central Market several years later, Suero, who was no longer a mayor, confessed to me his knowledge about the issue. "Wara ron to a. Nadala lang ko to sa emosyon ko" (Let’s forget everything. I was only then carrried by my emotion).


How many journalists have been murdered in cold blood only because the likes of Suero were "only carried by their emotions?" 


He was weak and limping. He has died. /MP

Sugilanon Ni Tita Linda


Ni Tita Linda Belayro


Guindaea It Swerte


Si Samson hay isaeang ka palaboy-laboy nga eaeaki sa kalye. Naaagahonan imaw sa bangketa. Rondaya ro anang toeogan kada gabii. Naga haboe imaw it baeasahon o maskin anano nga karton nga anang mapueot sa basurahan. Makasamit eang imaw it pagkaon kon maitsahan it pilang sentimo sa pagbantay nana ko mga saeakyan nga naga parada sa atobangan it mga opisina.


Owa imaw nakasayod kon sin-o ro anang mga ginikanan. Hadumduman nana nga idto imaw naga estar sa anang guina kilaea nga tiya. Tongod mapintas ro anang tiyo busa nag ea-as imaw hasta una imaw napad-pad sa rondayang lugar.


Isaeang adlaw, sam-tang naga trapo imaw it isaeang ka kotse nga anang guina bantayan, may hakita imaw nga mga binatilyo nga andang guina tukeap ro mga igdaeapat it kotse nga guin parada sa pihak nga karsada.


Eagi-eagi, dali-dali nana nga guin inga-an. Owa mag pamati. Anang guin eagas ag guin karate. Hakita sanda it guwardiya busa nadakop ratong mga binatilyo.


Duro ro pag-pasaeamat ko tag-ana it saeakyan. Pag uli sa andang baeay, guin daea si Samson ag nagsunod man imaw. Idto imaw nakasamit it manamit nga mga pagkaon. Solohanon man lang gali si Randy nga unga busa guin bilang nanang igmanghod si Samson, ro dating palaboy-laboy nga tawo.


Umpisa kato, may direksyon eon ro kabuhi ni Samson. Agud magbag-o ro anang pagkatawo, guin bak-ean imaw it naog ag guin bestihan imaw it mayad. Guin patun-an si Samson sa pribado nga eskwelahan ag guin islan ro anang pangaean kay Sam paagi sa guin duhoe nga "petition for correction of entry in the Birth Certificate" sa Regional Trial Court.


Adlaw nga Sabado, haaywan si Sam sa baeay. Nagpanglimpyo imaw sa mga kwarto ag mga kwadro. Isaeang ka retrato it magueang ro nakatawag ko anang panan-awon. Mingko may bu-ot hambaeon kana ro magueang. Guin turo kana ro mabahoe nga rebulto una sa kwarto. Guin alsa nana ro rebulto ag tumambad sa anang atubang ro mga papeles. Anang guintago. Pag abot, guin pakita nana kay Randy. Ro sangka papel guin basa, ag idto nakasaad nga may isaeang ka onga rondayang magueang ag may apo pa imaw nga mabuhay eon nga guina inusoy.


Ro magueang hay namatay sa isaeang ka aksidente. Ogaling, parabil imaw namatay, anang guin himo ro tanan nga documento. Ro sambatong documento naga saad: "kon sin-o man ro makakita ko rayang guin tago nga papeles hay imaw ro akong guina inusoy. Si Randy hay bukon it kadugo ko magueang kundi onga ko anang hardinero apang nagbahoe sa magueang nga mabuot nga namatay tongod sa aksidente.


Sa pag-abot ni Sam sa kabuhi ni Randy, daywa eon sanda nga nag atipan ag nagpadayon sa mga negosyo it ratong magueang nga nagtaliwan tongod sa aksidente. /MP

Mayweather Avoids Boxing Pacquiao Shows Arrogance


LAS VEGAS (Reuters) - The prospect of a long awaited mega-fight between Floyd Mayweather Jr and Filipino Manny Pacquiao seemed as distant as ever after the flamboyant American’s fourth-round knockout of Victor Ortiz.


Though Mayweather improved his perfect professional record to 42-0 by claiming the WBC welterweight title from Ortiz, he was reluctant to commit to the showdown most desired by the boxing world.


"I don’t need Pacquiao," Mayweather, 34, told reporters after beating Ortiz at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. "With or without Pacquiao, every time Floyd Mayweather goes out there, he’s going to make over $70 million.


"I don’t need him. Where was Pacquiao in 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001 when I was dominating the game? He never asked me (for a fight) when I was in my twenties or when I was in my teens."


A duel between the defense-minded Mayweather and the aggressive Pacquiao, the two biggest drawcards of their generation, would decide the mythical title of the world’s best pound-for-pound fighter.


Five-division world champion Mayweather had been expected to meet Pacquiao last year until negotiations collapsed over the American’s demand for random drug testing.


Shane Mosley then stepped in to take the Filipino’s place but he was outclassed by Mayweather in a non-title welterweight bout in May.


Pacquiao is scheduled to fight Mexican Juan Manuel Marquez in November and, should he win that bout, there is speculation the Filipino southpaw could finally meet Mayweather next May.


However the American, who made a minimum of $25 million from his victory over Ortiz, repeatedly questions how Pacquaio could have won world titles in an unprecedented eight weight classes.


"Sugar Ray Leonard, we knew he was going to be great from his Olympic days," Mayweather said. "Michael Jordan, we knew from college he was going to be a great professional.


"Floyd Mayweather, from the beginning of his career in the ’90s, we knew he was going to be a great professional. Now ask yourself, a fighter just don’t get to 25 years old and all of a sudden he becomes great," he added, referring to Pacquaio.


Mayweather also criticized Pacquiao for riding on his coat tails financially and also with the selection of his opponents.


"Pacquiao is famous because he is attached to my name," the American said. "When they say Pacquiao, they say that’s the guy they are trying to get to fight Floyd Mayweather. When they say Floyd Mayweather, they say the greatest ever. All Pacquiao is doing is fighting my leftovers man.


"Before he goes about fighting Floyd Mayweather, he has to get his business in order. We’re talking about a guy that gives up, when he fights, 30 percent of his check to two different companies. I keep 100 percent of the revenue."


For his part, Pacquiao continually defers any talk of a Mayweather mega-bout to his promoter.


"I’m not going to fight anybody as long as there is a problem with the decision of the promoter," the Filipino said earlier this year. "That’s my promoter’s job. I’m just a fighter to do my job and train hard for the fight." (Editing by Julian Linden) /MP