EDITORIAL

Kalibo International Airport In Disarray

by MEGS S. LUNN

At the onset of the maiden flight of Cebu Pacific flight from Kalibo to Hongkong last March 23, 2012, I can’t help but notice the three air conditioning units of the Kalibo International Airport (KIA), 2nd floor and the many kiosks that are located inside and outside the departure area and the obstruction of many ‘commissioners’ inside the arrival area, too.

In fairness to Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) manager, Engr. Percy Malonesio, these and many more concerns at KIA, like the awful-smelling comfort rooms beside the x-ray machine as soon as one enters the check-in/departure area, is always brought to his attention. One just wonders what really cause the delay of resolving these problems.

In my curiosity, I got the information confirmed by both CAAP and KIATA on January 30, 2012, from the Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC) and CAAP regarding the Airport Transport Violations and Their Corresponding Penalties.

The smooth operation inside the airport is sometimes troubled by incidence of violations of its rules and regulations approved to ensure peace and order of any airport.

Suspension from work is not enough penalty so the management came up to adopt Iloilo Airport’s guidelines regarding transport violation and corresponding penalties. The violations are well defined with the corresponding penalties.

These same violations are repeated every day especially during plane arrivals. Yet, there is no action taken against the culprits. One can only recognize Southwest and KIATA which are the forefront transport businesses in Aklan Tourism Industry that provide smooth transfer of tourists from KIA to Caticlan Jetty Port, Malay. It is known that Manila Tour & Travels is authorized to facilitate hotel accommodation as per contract. But it also facilitates transport with staff members who are not in proper uniform and no ID’s. This is a violation of its contract. What about the NO UNIFORM – NO ID – NO ENTRY policy for security reason? What about the rest of them who obstruct the arriving passengers outside of their table and grab the opportunity to get commissions?

On the other hand, the departure area once swamped by passengers, both domestic and international, passengers can be seen standing along the side, because the surrounding areas are all filled up by many displays and kiosks.

Many believes the kiosks occupying the area are adversely affecting comfort of the passengers. If food is needed, there are many restaurants outside the departure and arrival areas. Why does CAAP allow more shops to occupy inside the departure/arrival areas? (And why the presence of SPA?) These must be removed for lack of space. If allowed to continue occupying and doing business inside the airport, this is GREED, (for a limited space).

The people lining outside during the check-in, experience discomfort because of the presence of two money–changers kiosks. These must be relocated to give space for passengers.

How much fees does CAAP require to ensure the smooth and orderly operation inside KIA?

CAAP may allow business shop inside KIA if there is sufficient space. On the other hand, there are illegal/colurum busses and vans in the parking area of KIA many of which are badly if not illegally parked. Some of these vehicles are dilapidated which need immediate repair such as body, repainting, and its air condition.

Gov. Carlito S. Marquez has advised Engr. Percy Malonesio about the few kiosks obstructing movement of people and the good view of the airport, as well as to provide comfort to the passengers. What about the bum-barrier that is supposed to be installed as per advised by the co-chair of the Aklan Provincial Tourism Council, Ms. Vicky A. Ramos, to safeguard the legal entry of all the transportation and private cars inside the airport?

Any person who is a student of management will always ask: “Is the CAAP management in their right mind to manage Kalibo International Airport to its disarray? KIA manager, Engr. Percy Malonesio who is the anchor person in the management of KIA may not answer that above stated question. /MP

Entrepreneurial Farmer

Tourists Industry’s Willing Victims

Ambrosio R. Villorente

Are you a participant to the tourism boom in Aklan? Are you profiting from the tourists’ visit to Aklan? On the other hand, are you adversely affected by the coming of the tourists to Aklan?

To some, they are making money out of the visits of tourists to Aklan: from both foreign and local visitors. The transportation company operators like airplanes, boats, buses and tricycles provide mobility to the visitors, charge them for their services with more profits. They are the beneficiaries.

For those who are not engaged in transportation business, they will pay higher as they compete with the tourists for transport services.

Those who have hotels and lodging houses, they make good business providing hotel and restaurant services to the visitors and gain profit from it. Those who have no lodging house and restaurant, they pay the comparatively higher cost of food and room rentals following the law of supply and demand.

In view of more tourists arrivals to Aklan, the cost of room rental, business spaces have sky rocketed to the extent as the most expensive in Panay.

Tourists in Aklan consume more food such as fish, beef, pork, chicken egg and meat, sea foods, vegetables and fruits. Their accelerated consumption has also increased the prices of those commodities. Because of the sustained and increasing demands for food in Aklan, prices of it are also going up.

For those Aklanons who have something to sell, either goods or services, to the tourists, they are the beneficiaries of tourism. For those who sell nothing, they are the willing victims of the tourists industry in Aklan.

However, it is quite easy to join actively and profit more out of the tourist industry in Aklan.

One easy way to participate gainfully in tourism is to look, work, and produce something to sell to the visitors.

Aklan has very fertile soil and favorable climate to produce livestocks and plants. An Aklanon may sincerely and diligently work to produce and sell fish product, a highly demanded class of food. They can invest in vegetables, fruits, and flowers production to supply the demands.

Aklan now produces less quantity of fish than the actual demand. A portion of fish products now comes from Luzon, Capiz, Antique, and Iloilo to fill up the shortage.

Most chicken meat being cooked in the restaurants “lechon manok” are produced from other provinces. Money from Aklan are siphoned out of the province as Aklanons consume more food like chicken meat, eggs, beef and pork from other provinces. Even flowers and ornamental plants are imported.

A portion of rice supply originates from Mindoro. Fruits and vegetables imported can be easily planted and produced in Aklan. Souvenir and gift items are supplied by other cities and provinces.

What happen to us Aklanons? Most of us are victims of tourist industry. This must be reversed by producing, supplying and selling commodities needed by tourists. If not, then those non-participants are willing victims of the tourist industry instead of beneficiaries.

Honesty

“An honest man’s the noblest work of God”. - Alexander Pope

Are the public officials tasked to procure athletic equipment and supplies used in the recent West Visayas Regional Athletic Association meet honest and therefore the work of God?

In “Ilitsahan”, a daily morning radio program Kaibahang Butz Maquinto anchors, the matter of very inferior quality athletic equipment and supplies provided to the Aklanon athletes were discussed.

Cited as examples are archery equipments, bags among others. Information was also given about the kind of transportation the Aklanon athletes were provided. They were allowed to ride in trucks. There was also information received that purchase order for the supply of the equipment and materials were just handed one day before the Aklanon athletes departed for Bacolod City. /MP

NVC Holds Graduation Exercises

Miss Churchill C. Gumboc will lead some 368 members of the graduating students of the Northwestern Visayan Colleges (NVC). The graduation ceremonies will be held on Friday at 3:00 o’clock in the afternoon, March 30 in the Carmen Salas Quimpo Gym, Estancia, Kalibo, Aklan, Atty. Allen S. Quimpo, NVC president announced.

Gumboc will graduate in the Bachelor of Secondary Education (BSED) major in Mathematics degree, Magna Cum Laude. After computing her grades from first year to fourth year college, it averaged 1.36, according to Ms. Maida M. Macahilas, NVC registrar.

Other honor graduates (cum laude) are Psyche Mia T. Magallanes, Kris Lorenz L. Manzanares, and Juvelyn M. Hilario with the degree of BEED.

For BSED, degree, they are JC M. Ilio, Cendrix D. Masangya, Ma. Jovella A. Pascua, and Angiely S. Asturias. Mielord S. Loyola is a lone cum laude in BS Crim.

Christmar S. Marte and Christine Lea N. Nahil finished their AB Major English. Gloria T. Villas, Niño Miko Delfin and Carla N. Suñer finished AB Mass Com as cum laude.

Ronelyn T. Batoy is a lone cum laude in BS Computer Science. There are four (4) who will graduate cum laude with the degree BSBA. They are Jinky M. Reyes, Chelyn T. Dela Cruz, Cyrel B. Dumancas, and Ideson S. Sinag.

The 368 graduating students are Master of Arts in Education – 28; Master of Public Administration – 12; BS Crim – 78; Education – 53; BSBA – 27; BS Hotel & Restaurant Mgt. – 19, BS Computer Science – 18; AB – 14; High School – 92; and elementary – 27.

Cong. Teodorico T. Haresco of the Kasangga Party List will be the honored guest and commencement speaker.

The deans of each department will read the names of the graduating students who will each be accompanied by their respective parent or guardian. /MP

VP Binay Attends 2nd Nuclear Security Summit In Korea

Vice President Jejomar C. Binay left this week for South Korea to represent President Benigno S. Aquino III in the 2nd Nuclear Security Summit in Seoul.

In his departure statement, the Vice President said the 2nd Nuclear Security Summit would present the Philippines with an opportunity to learn and promote wide awareness and understanding of nuclear security.

“We shall be discussing nuclear disarmament, nuclear non-proliferation, and the peaceful uses of nuclear energy,” Binay said.

“We shall be exploring various ways of enhancing global nuclear security and safety, in the face of the continuing spread of nuclear weapons and radioactive materials around the world, and the nuclear disaster during last year’s earthquake-tsunami in Fukushima, Japan,” he added.

The conference will be attended by the U.N. Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, United States president Barack Obama and more than fifty heads of state and government from around the world.

“Unknown to many of our countrymen, our government has been a vigorous participant in setting up the legal framework for our global nuclear security,” Binay pointed out.

“The Philippines sits in the drafting committee of the conference, and has been active in all the various stages leading to this summit,” he added.

According to Binay, his visit will also allow him to meet with key Korean government officials since the summit coincides with the bilateral celebration of the 63rd anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and the Republic of Korea.

“While in Seoul, I will also be meeting with the Filipino community in my capacity as presidential adviser on Overseas Filipino Workers concerns, chairman of HUDCC, and chairman emeritus of the Inter-Agency Committee Against Trafficking (IACAT),” he said.

“This is an important mission for the president, our country and our people. For the safety and success of our delegation, I implore your unfailing prayers,” Binay requested.

The Philippine government is a signatory to the Convention On The Physical Protection Of Nuclear Materials (CPPNM), one of the 13 counter-terrorism instruments in force and the only internationally legally binding undertaking in the area of physical protection of nuclear materials used for peaceful purposes.

It is also a signatory to the International Con-vention on the Suppression of Acts of Nuclear Terrorism (ICSANT), which was adopted under the auspices of the United Nations.

In 2010, the Philippines’ permanent representative to the U.N., Ambassador Libran Cabactulan, chaired the review of the nuclear non-proliferation treaty in the U.N. The review conference adopted by consensus a historic and comprehensive final outcome document containing 64 action points promoting the three pillars of the nuclear non-proliferation treaty, namely, nuclear disarmament, nuclear non-proliferation, and the peaceful uses of nuclear energy. /MP

Kapihan Sa Aklan, Robust At Four Years Old

by ERNESTO T. SOLIDUM

Kapihan sa Aklan guests on its 4th Foundation Day are (l to r) Kalibo Mayor William Lachica, Pres. Megs Lunn, Mr. Johnny Dayang, Atty. Ronquillo Tolentino, and Prov’l Administrator Diego M. Luces

March 24 marks the 4th Foundation Day celebration of the Kapihan sa Aklan, a weekly public affairs program aired over Kalibo and Aklan Cable TV networks. The celebration honored a departed media stalwart William “Billy” Arguelles, a man who dedicated his life to help strengthen the Aklan Press Club, Inc. with missionary zeal. He was APCI treasurer when he died middle of last year. The loss was deeply felt by those who loved him especially his wife, his five children and the corporate media.

Giving life and color to the occasion are local pillars of tri-media namely: Atty. Ronquillo C. Tolentino, Atty. Allen S. Quimpo, Dr. Ambrosio R. Villorente, Atty. Diego M. Luces, Mr. Juan P. Dayang and Mayor William S. Lachica.

In his homily, Rev. Fr. Robert S. Sitjar the public ministry of Jesus Christ in John 7:40 – 52 was marked by controversies over his claim as source of living water therefore Lord and Messiah. A quick background check shows that Jesus was a son of a lowly carpenter from Nazareth, unschooled and therefore an impostor. Nevertheless many believed him.

Truth will always have different responses from people because of their individual perception and prejudices. Acceptance of truth comes with an open mind but a closed mind rejects it. Mediamen also experience the same predicament and dilemma of presenting public issues and concerns although strictly from a human perspective. In the case of Jesus’ ministry He spoke with power and authority. To His detractors, Jesus said, my teaching is not mine but His who sent me. John 7:16. “No man ever spoke like this man.” In essence, truth must be presented with a consuming passion not respecting persons, boundaries or creed. Truth matters for ultimately it will set us free.

Mayor Lachica said that APCI will always be an invaluable partner in Kalibo LGU’s advocacy for transparency and accountability in governance. He credited the institutionalized Kapihan sa Aklan in crafting excellent ideas and opinion particularly on tourism, peace and order and infra development.

Speaking in behalf of Gov. Carlito S. Marquez, Atty. Diego M. Luces portrays media as mirror of society. It is a great force in building public consensus and serves as feedback mechanism to strengthen the delivery of basic services.

Atty. Quimpo believes that excellent leverage of democracy could only be achieved through the power of media. Where the media is weak or muzzled so is democracy because complacency and corruption step in. We must build Aklan as model of democracy and bastion of press freedom said the ex-solon.

The commemorative program held at Kusina sa Kalibo featured the New Jerusalem choir and vocal duet of Aliw-iw Pioquinto and Dustin Arguelles, son of Billy and Lyn in their finest performance. It is a welcome sight to have family members of the deceased grace the occasion for rare moments of sharing and bonding with active media practitioners.

Kapihan sa Aklan may be a toddler but undeniably, it has made significant impact to public governance and quest for a better life. Thanks to able leadership and vision of its former officers and now the banner is carried high by its lady president Megs S. Lunn. Mabuhay! /MP

Roxas City Plaza Chess Assn. Inducts Officers

Roxas City – City Councilor Erwin B. Sicad sworn to office the newly elected officers of the Roxas City Plaza Chess Association, Inc. Sicad was the proxy of City Mayor Angel Alan B. Celino who could not attend the affair held at RML Manokan, San Roque Ext., Roxas City, March ll, 20l2.

Councilor Sicad congratulated the officers of the association for their vision in promoting the royal game of chess in Roxas City. He also praised the organizers for establishing the giant chess board at the city plaza, one of the tourist spots in the city.

President Gabriel A. Advincula gave credit to City Mayor Angel Alan B. Celino, to Eddie Saludaga and Manuel Cambe for initiating the organization of the city plaza chess association as well as the extablishment of the giant chess board at the city plaza.

Officers inducted are Gabriel A. Advincula, president; Ben Billones, vice president; Leopoldo Morcoso Jr. secretary/treasurer; Jun Mar Natanauan, auditor; Ramilo Villanueva and Butchoy Acutillar, business managers; Joseph Silvias, press relation officer; Rene Distor and Wilfredo Arrojado, peace officers.

Board of directors: Eddie Saludaga, chairman; Directors Manuel Cambe, Winston Ramos, Walden Ruefa, Engr. Niel Panelo, Allan Tutica, Ruel Bergantino, Ike Acevedo, and Ariel Andrada.

Board of Advisers: City Councilor Erwin B. Sicad, City Councilor Matthew Viterbo, Jessie Dalisay and Benny Cortes. /MP

Villar Hears Effectiveness of Cheaper Medicines Law

Sen. Manny Villar, chairman of the Committee on Trade and Commerce, in a public hearing last week checked the effectiveness of the law that was envisioned to make affordable essential medicines for the poor.

“Four years after the passage of the law, there is a concern that this law failed to achieve its desired effect, and that is to bring down the prices of medicines needed by poor Filipinos,” Villar said.

Also the chairman of the Oversight Committee on Quality Affordable Medicine, Villar said Republic Act 9502 or the Universally Accessible Cheaper and Quality Medicines Act of 2008, should be amended to serve its original intention to help poor Filipinos get well through medicines they can afford.

The hearing was attended by Gregory Domingo, secretary, Department of Trade and Industry; Madeleine de Rosa-Vera, assistant secretary, Department of Health; Atty. Emilio Polig, chief legal, Food and Drug Administration; Ma. Lourdes Baua, President and CEO, Philippine International Trading Corp. (PITC); and Dr. Rolando Bautista, CEO, PITC-Pharma.

Atty. Paula Tanquieng, program officer, Ayos na Gamot sa Abot-Kayang Presyo; Jocelyn Palacpac, associate professor, College of Pharmacy, University of the Philippines, Manila; Dr. Art Catli, director, Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines (PHAP); Eufe Tantia, assistant vice president, PHAP; Maribel Magsambol, chairperson, national affairs, Drugstore Association of the Philippines; Benjamin Liuson, president, Pacific Pharmaceuticals Generics, Inc.; Ignacio Arnaiz, Botika 1 Corp.; Vanessa Gatdula-Hilvano, Chamber of Herbal Industries of the Philippines; and Grace Galindez-Gupana, founder-vice president, ABS Gen Herbs also attended.

The proposed measures discussed Senate Bill 5 authored by Sen. Loren Legarda, which seeks to amend the Cheaper Medicines Act; SB 1572 and 2951, both pushing for annual reporting of prescription drugs authored by Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago and Villar, respectively; SB 2960 also by Villar, seeking the creation of the Drug Price Regulatory Board; and Senate Proposed Resolution 730, filed by Villar, calling for an inquiry into the production, storage and distribution practices of herbal and alternative medicines. /MP

Korean Ambassador Turns Over Multi-million Rice Processing Complex

by Gloria Lourdes S. Parreñas

Pototan, Iloilo— A turn-over ceremony of the Modern Integrated Rice Processing Complex (RPC) located in Brgy. Amamaros, Pototan, Iloilo took place last week. This multi-million peso project is a grant from the Korean Government through the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA).

The RPC is one of the biggest KOICA grants to the Philippines, considering that the agriculture sector is one of the organization’s priority areas of cooperation in the Philippines. Through the collaborative efforts of KOICA and the Department of Agri-culture, the Province of Iloilo and the Municipality of Pototan, the RPC was completed on December 31, 2011, on time for the one-year timetable allotted for its construction and completion.

His Excellency, Lee Hye Min, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to the Philippines, turned-over the KOICA-RPC facility which DA Secretary, Hon. Proceso J. Alcala accepted. The turn over ceremony was a VIP-studded event which guests’ list included KOICA Resident Representative Hon. Kim Jinoh, DA Undersecretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat, Iloilo Province Governor Arthur D. Defensor Sr., Cong. Arthur R. Defensor, Jr., and other DA officials

and dignitaries.

This RPC project is intended to improve the efficiency of rice production, storage, drying, and processing system. It is a means to reduce postharvest losses and improve the quality of rice. The main goal of the project is to increase the income of rice farmers and contribute in achieving rice self-sufficiency in the Philippines by 2013.

It is believed that the RPC will greatly enhance the status of the Province of Iloilo as one of the top rice producing provinces in the Philippines. The project symbolizes the flourishing partnership between the DA and KOICA. /MP

Cebu Pacific Flies Kalibo–Hongkong

by MEGS S. LUNN

On March 23, 2012, the Cebu Pacific launched its international service in Kalibo with its maiden Kalibo-Hongkong flight at the Kalibo International Airport. It started with a launcheon-presscon attended by the different media entities from Aklan, Iloilo and Capiz, held at Café Latte, Andagao, Kalibo, Aklan.

According to Mr. Alexander Lao, “the launching reinforces our commitment to continue expanding the largest Philippine national flag carrier’s reach in the Asia-Pacific region, and promotes air travel to destinations not easily accessible to our passengers. We are committed to help tourism become an even more vibrant sector. We have considerably increased passenger traffic over the years. Our vision is primarily to bring travel closer to people, by offering affordable rates, and by linking islands and destinations through air transportation.

A lot of careful planning, hard work, and a dedicated team made Cebu Pacific the largest airline in the Philippines today. It offers flights to 33 local and 19 international destinations. Every destination we serve, every new route we start, every innovation we implement, is proof of our commitment to the vision that started this all. We also offer great value of service that propelled us to where we are today. It will continue no matter where we fly.”

CEO Lance Gokongwie and his company had been a proud catalyst of growth in tourism which is the backbone of our country’s premier industry – Tourism. They continually find ways to stimulate and initiate growth in air travel encouraging people to keep flying and enjoying the lowest possible rate on air transportation.

The Kalibo-Hong-kong flight will fly thrice weekly to depart Kalibo at 2:35 pm and arrive in Hongkong at 5:05 pm. Cebu Pacific also operates six (6) times daily flights to Hongkong from Manila, Cebu and Clark, offering the most connectivity, flights and routes to Hongkong than any other airline.

According to Michelle Eve De Guzman, asst. manager for Corporate Communications, “CEB has launched Manila-Hanoi flights last March 17, and Manila-Xiamen flights on March 23. It will launch Manila-Siem Reap flights on April 19, 2012.

Cebu Air Inc. is the largest carrier in the Philippine air transportation industry, offering its low-cost services to more destinations and routes with higher flight frequency within the Philippines than any other airline. /MP

Legal Basis of Special Education

by JOHANN C. CAWALING

Special Education in the Philippines has developed consciousness to the different sectors of society. It has reached out its concern to the children with special needs. Major laws are enacted aimed to protect the rights and welfare of these children with special needs.

Special Education for children with special needs however, has not merited attention from regular instruction. It is therefore the concerned agencies and sectors to work harder in order to give special children equal opportunities in education and develop their capabilities to be empowered.

The 1987 Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines clearly states in Article 13, Sec. 13 that “the State shall establish a special agency for disabled persons for their rehabilitation, self-development and self-reliance, and their integration into the mainstream of society”.

Article 14, Sec. 1 also states that, “the State shall protect and promote the right of all citizens to quality education at all levels and shall take appropriate steps to make such education accessible to all. Furthermore, it can also be noted in Sec. 2(5) that, “the State shall provide adult citizens, the disabled and out-of-school youth with training in civics, vocational efficiency and other skills”.

Aside from the 1987 Constitution, there are other major laws approved to ensure the protection of children with special needs.

Batas Pambansa 232, known as the Education Act of 1982, Chapter 2, Sec. 3 states that “the State shall promote the right of every individual to relevant quality education regardless of sex, age, creed, socio-economic status, physical and mental conditions, racial or ethnic origin, political or other affiliation. The State shall therefore promote and maintain equality of access to education as well as the enjoyment of the benefits of education by all its citizens.

In Sec. 24 of the same chapter states that “the State further recognizes its responsibility to provide within the context of the formal system, services to meet special needs of certain clientele. These specific types, which shall be guided by the policies of the State embodied in the General Provisions of this Act which include: (2) Special Education, the education of persons who are physically, socially, or culturally different from the so called “normal” individuals that they require modification of school practices/services to develop them to their maximum capacity”.

There are also provisions which are stated in P.D. 603 (known as The Child and Youth Welfare Code), Article 3, Rights of the Child describes that “the emotionally disturbed or socially maladjusted child shall be treated with sympathy and under-standing and shall be entitled to treatment and competent, and the physically or mentally handicapped child shall be given the education and care required by his particular condition.” It can also be noted in Article 74 which states that “where needs warrant, there shall be at least one special class in every province, and if possible special schools for the physically handicapped, the mentally retarded, the emotionally disturbed and the specially gifted. The private sector shall be given all the necessary inducement and encouragement.”

With deep concern and concerted efforts of those who are advocating the plight of children with special needs, the enactment of Republic Act 7277 (Magna Carta for Disabled Persons) has paved its way to achieve an environment which is secured and barrier-free that will lead to develop them fully to attain a healthy, productive and stabilized life. /MP

Death of 4 Pinoy Workers Devastates Filipino Community In Calgary

by ALEX P. VIDAL

BURNABY, British Columbia – The death of four Filipino temporary workers in a car mishap in Edmonton on March 4 has devastated the Filipino community in Calgary.

“We are still at loss on how to accept the sad news and we continue to mourn until today,” said Rachelle Antiojo, a hotel worker in Edmonton.

Erlinda Mamora, a nanny, said she was a friend of one of the four saying “she could not come to terms” realizing how brutal was their death when a suspected drunk driver rammed their vehicle in a head-on collision on the QE II Highway.

Antiojo and Mamora said the whole community continued to mourn “like we lost four members of our own family.”

They were among the hundreds of members of Edmonton’s Filipino community that gathered March 12 night to celebrate the lives of victims — Anthony Subong Castillon, 35, Joey Flores Mangonon, 35, Eden Dalu Biazon, 39, and Josefina Flores Velarde, 52 — all temporary foreign workers from the Philippines.

SURVIVOR

Three of the four worked at Edmonton’s Coast Edmonton Plaza Hotel as did Josephine Gaila Tamondong, 28, the lone survivor who was still confined in hospital.

Friends and co-workers reportedly squeezed between the pews inside the chapel, spilling out into the south Edmonton funeral home.

“They’re the ones who started the joy, the laughter in the morning,” said co-worker Rossel Macapagal. “They boost our morale every day, every morning.”

They dreamed of one day bringing their families to join them in Canada, he said.

Few family members were able to attend the service, but they are still heard, as letters from Joey Mangonon’s wife and eldest daughter were read out, reported the CBCnews Calgary.

LETTER

“Daddy, for me you are not gone,” one letter said. “For you will always live in my heart. I will always be Daddy Joey’s little girl.”

Josefina Velarde was proud to find work in Canada, so she could send money back to her family in the Philippines, said her cousin Teresa Miflores.

“She’s a person with a good heart,” said Miflores. “She’s a very beautiful person in and out.” /MP

The Catholic Church - Facts & Figures

Pray, Hope & Don’t Worry!!!

by RAPHY TAYCO

Excerpts of an article written by non-Catholic Sam Miller - a prominent Cleveland Jewish businessman:

“Why would news-papers carry on a vendetta on one of the most important institutions that we have today in the United States, namely the Catholic Church?

Do you know - the Catholic Church educates 2.6 million students everyday at the cost to that Church of 10 billion dollars, and a savings on the other hand to the American taxpayer of 18 billion dollars? The graduates go on to graduate studies at the rate of 92 percent.

The Church has 230 colleges and universities in the U.S. with an enrollment of 700,000 students.

The Catholic Church has a 637 non-profit hospital system, which accounts for hospital treatment of 1 out of every 5 people - not just Catholics - in the United States today.

But the press is vindictive and trying to totally denigrate in every way the Catholic Church in this country. They have blamed the disease of pedophilia on the Catholic Church, which is as irresponsible as blaming adultery on the institution of marriage.

Let me give you some figures that Catholics should know and remember. For example, 12 percent of the 300 Protestant clergy surveyed admitted to sexual intercourse with a parishioner; 38 percent acknowledged other inappropriate sexual contacts in a study by the United Methodist Church, 41.8 percent of clergy women reported unwanted sexual behavior; 17 percent of laywomen have been sexually harassed.

Meanwhile, 1.7 percent of the Catholic clergy has been found guilty of pedophilia. 10 percent of the Protestant ministers have been found guilty of pedophilia. This is not a Catholic problem.

A study of American priests showed that most are happy in the priesthood and find it even better than they had expected, and that most, if given the choice, would choose to be priests again in the face of all this obnoxious PR the church has been receiving.

The Catholic Church is bleeding from self-inflicted wounds. The agony that Catholics have felt and suffered is not necessarily the fault of the Church. You have been hurt by a small number of wayward priests that have probably been totally weeded out by now and a number of bishops who failed to act.

Walk with your shoulders high and your head higher. Be a proud member of the most important non-governmental agency in the United States.

Then remember what Jeremiah said: ’Stand by the roads, and look and ask for the ancient paths, where the good way is and walk in it, and find rest for your souls’. Be proud to speak up for your faith with pride and reverence and learn what your Church does for all other religions. Be proud that you’re a Catholic”. (in the Philippines) /MP

Sugilanon Ni Tita Linda

Ni Tita Linda Belayro

Do–Re–Mi

May tatlong ka mag amigo nga sanday Do–Re–Mei. Suod guid ro andang pag amigo. Bukon it kumpleto ro sambato kon owa ro daywa. Kada isaea kanda hay may tinago nga kinaadman.

Si Do hay sarang maka unat ko anang alima agod maga haba. Si Re hay sarang man maunat ro anang le-og. Si Mi hay maka angkit man it maskin ano nga matig-a nga bagay.

Isaeang adlaw, guin sugo si Do ko anang nanay nga magsaka it niyog agod ipayok sa andang tinuea para sa ilabas. Sa bulig ni Re, nag ipo si Do it niyog. Anang guin unat ro anang alima agod maabot ro eahin sa ibabaw.

Pagkatapos, nga maipo ni Do ro niyog, nagpamasyar ro tatlo sa plaza ko andang banwa. May pabando ro hari nga maga ta-o it premyo sa sin-o man nga makakita ko singsing nga nahueog sa dagat. Habatian ko tatlo ro pabando. Busa, nag presentar ro tatlo nga mag eorop ko singsing sa dagat ag nabaton man sanda.

Unang guin unat ni Re ro anang le-og. Nag pang liaw-liaw ag hakita nana ro singsing sa idaeum it tubi sa dagat. Nag hueotikan ro daywa ag dayon nagsakay sa baroto si Do agod anang poeoton ko anang alima ro singsing. Nabo-oe nanda ro singsing sa tubi. Ogaling may nagtunga nga barakudang mabahoe nga isda nga may mataeum nga ngipon. Hakibot sanda busa, habuhian nanda ro singsing. Guin subad ag guin toeon it isda ro sing-sing. Guin pasakay nanda si Mi paadto sa dagat agod maki away sa isda.

Haabot gidman nanda ro isda. Paagi sa mataeum man nga ngipon ni Mi, ha angkit nana ro barakuda hasta namatay. Guin higtan ro isda ag guin daea sa takas. Guin kiwa ro tiyan ko isda ag guin usoy ro singsing sa anang tina-e. Hakita gidman nanda ro singsing ag habo-oe gidman nanda ro singsing ag premyo. Guin hueay ko tatlo nga mag amigo ro andang premyo. Nangin mga manggaranon sanda. /MP

EDITORIAL

Man Decides What Nature Is And What Will Be

by ERNESTO T. SOLIDUM

March is declared National Women’s month in recognition of their invaluable contributions for nation building. “Women Weathering Climate Change: Governance and Accountability, Everyone’s Responsibility” is the theme for this year’s celebration.

The guests at the Kapihan on March 17, 2012 at Smokehauz Resto & Bar are Ms. Jessica Vidal, Focal Person GAD-C, Atty. Ronquillo C. Tolentino, Ms. Chita C. Heap, president, Kool Earth, Mr. Emmanuel Parco, Jr. Committee Chairperson on Education, MOVE, Dr. Felma R. Dela Cruz, Dr. Cynthia de la Cruz – Vice Pres. Kool Earth, Ms. Editha Rubio – president SKBK, and Dr. Glenmar Martinez, Child Protection Unit – DRSTMH.

Atty. Tolentino cited several landmark legislations favoring women which are: Magna Carta for Women or RA 9703 approved on August 19, 2009. It recognizes the role of women in nation building and eliminates all forms of discrimination and violence. This is followed by Solo Parenting Act and SP Ordinance No. 03-027 or Gender and Development Act authored by Atty. Estrella M. Briones. “At least we have created the right direction for growth but full realization of women empowerment rest on their concerted efforts,” former vice governor Tolentino pointed out.

Dr. Felma Dela Cruz underscores “the healthy environment since human health is closely intertwined with his immediate surroundings. In view of global impact of climate change, Kool Earth now six years old is willing to open new chapters in other towns like Batan and Ibajay. That is if they are willing to partner with us,” said Dr. Felma Dela Cruz.

Dr. Cynthia de la Cruz suggested that more info drive targeting various sectoral groups must be implemented. Relentless effort of Kool Earth includes community assembly meetings discussing the effective management of waste like reduce, re-use, and recycle. Sectors coordinated are from women’s organization of GAD-C, teachers, students, professionals, businessmen and even prison inmates.

Ms. Rubio revealed that Samahan ng Kababayenhan It Mga Barangay ng Kalibo (SKBK) is deputized by virtue of an Exec. Order signed by Mayor William S. Lachica dated January 27, 2012 to implement Solid Waste Management. NGO is now a year old and boost of 86 active women volunteers in 14 barangays of Kalibo.

Urgent need is to drastically reduce widespread use of plastic and styrofoam as wrapping/packaging materials. It is pertinent to note that it takes 10 to 100 years to decompose and emit toxic substances.

SKBK has produced and marketed re-usable bags from buri palm, a versatile fiber crop, a potential source of livelihood says Ms. Rubio.

According to Mr. Parco, Men Oppose to Violence Everywhere (MOVE) has collaborated with line agencies like DOH, DA, DAR, DSWD, PNP and DepEd in its advocacy to protect women’s rights.

Organized in 2004, presently, it has three chapters in Kalibo, Malinao, and Nabas with 100 members. Mr. Franklin Quimpo spearheaded in organizing MOVE.

Dr. Martinez confirmed that Aklan is piloted as National Child Trafficking Center being a famous tourist destination – Boracay. Child neglect includes physical, sexual, and emotional abuses must be taken of depending on age, gender and awareness of the victim. Due to the child’s traumatic experience, interviews by authorities and the media must be circumspected, Dr. Martinez suggested.

Despite the passage of the Magna Carta for Women, violence against women and children is on the rise. Mary Jean Grear, Exec. Director, Center for Women Resources cited PNP data showing there is 47.74 percent increase in violence against women and children from 13,242 in 2009 to 26,951 in 2010. For rape and incest, 4,572 cases were recorded in 2010 from 4,048 cases or 13 percent increase.

Approximately one woman is beaten by her partner or husband every 43 minutes while one child is battered every hour and 20 minutes. A woman or child is harassed every four hours. There are 500,000 victims of prostitution in the Philippines and 100,000 of them are children. Some 11 women die everyday due to complication in childbirth. A million women then find work. In 2010, three women were murdered because of their political belief.

Aklan PNP reported that in 2010, there were 88 cases of violence against children and 50 against women. Of these, 28 are rapes. From January 12 to March of this year, there are 49 reported crimes against women five were rapes.

There is however a silver lining to healthy women’s outlook in the Philippines. According to Grant Thornton of International Business Dept. Filipino women in top corporate positions rose from 35 to 39 percent in 2011 making the Philippines second only to a tie between Russia, Thailand and Botswana.

Commenting on the theme, “Women Withering Climate Change”, here’s an excellent remark of Paul Crutzen, Nobel Peace Prize winning Atmospheric Chemist. “It is no longer us against nature. Instead, it’s us who decide what nature is and what will be”. He explained, man have been changing the planet ever since the dawn of agriculture 10,000 years ago when Homo sapiens began altering the land and the plant and animals living on it. /MP

Entrepreneurial Farmer

Ambrosio R. Villorente

Let Kalibo Develop Farmers Persons Worthy of Respect

Will an Aklanon don an Identification Card identifying him as “Marginalized Farmer?” If not, why not?

There is now an ordinance in Kalibo which will exempt a Kalibonhon marginalized farmer from paying certain fees in order to obtain Mayor’s and Business Permits. This Municipal Ordinance No. 2012 – 002 of Kalibo will allow a person identified as marginalized farmer to sell his farm products like gabi, tapioca, sweet potato, at Toting Reyes St., between Roxas Avenue Extension and XIX Martyrs Street once a week during market day on Sunday.

In order to avail of this benefit, one must be marginalized farmer whose net income is not beyond P50,000 per year. Those who will qualify will be issued an ID which will certify that the bearer of it is a “Marginalized Farmer”.

Wow, P50,000 net income! With this definition of marginalized farmer as used in Kalibo Ordinance No. 2012 – 002, almost all farmers will qualify as marginalized. The proponent of this Ordinance must devote more time and effort to find out how much really is the annual net income of an Aklanon Farmer in the truest sense of marginalized word.

A two hectare rice farmer with two croppings a year must really be a diligent scientific farmer to produce crops and have a P50,000 net profit per year. From that crop, what a rice farmer will have is labor income not net profit. Almost all small farmers in Aklan do not assign value to their labor spent in farm production, so they feel good after harvest as their harvest may exceed farm inputs.

It is admitted that the factors of production are land, labor, and capital. Added to these are time, method, materials and machine. And net gain is obtained after subtracting the cost of these production factors from gross income. It is highly possible to obtain P50,000 net income and even beyond if a farmer deals with chicken meat and eggs and other high value crops production.

On Monday afternoon, March 19, upon the invitation of the Committee on Laws and Rules, I attended a committee meeting of the Aklan SP for interaction on the said ordinance of Kalibo. I was provided with the copy of the ordinance.

But after reading the above stated ordinance, I understood the noble purpose of the Sangguniang Bayan of Kalibo, more specifically its author. Since I belong to the farm sector, I offered just simple suggestions for the kind consideration of the Sangguniang Pan-lalawigan of Aklan before its final approval. If these suggestions are favorably considered, I trust it will improve the above stated ordinance.

First, I humbly offered to delete the term “MARGINALIZED” in the ordinance which describes the kind of farmer the ordinance will provide benefits. The title of the ordinance will then read: “An Ordinance Granting Certain Privileges to the Farmers of Kalibo…”Further, delete also “marginalized” in the second whereas.

I believe maintaining the term marginalized in the ordinance will make the ordinance a “Class Legislation”. It will favor a few. It is discriminatory to other farmers.

I also strongly believe the description of a farmer as marginalized is so humbling, terribly humiliating to those persons referred to as “backbone of the nation”. While they are poor, can we dignify them by deleting marginalized?

While agriculture is an art and science, it is as well profitable if farming is done diligently and scientifically, more may engage and do it well to prosper from it. Let us help the farmer along increased production and enhance his dignity.

Calling farmers marginalized will discourage our children to inherit the farms. Who will then produce our food? Why belong to a marginalized person, the farmer?

Let us make farming attractive, interesting, enjoyable and lucrative. Let us attract our children to inherit the farm and to produce food for their families and for consumers.

As the above stated ordinance is written, it appears the beneficiary is only the farmer. How about if SB Kalibo just add another whereas like, “Whereas, vegetables and fruits, root crops, chicken and eggs and other farm products of high quality will be made available to the consumers at reasonable prices.

If Ordinance No. 2012 – 002 is finally approved as is and implemented, Toting Reyes Street between Roxas Avenue Extension and XIX Martyrs Street will become notorious as the Marginalized Farmers Market on Sundays. I hope it will not come to that point. I pray time will never come that when a housewife who bought some root crops when asked: “Where did you buy your camote will answer: “idto sa Toting Reyes, tindahan it pobreng mangunguma”.

What a mockery! Here, a person is humbled and then offered him something to appease.

It will be for the best interest of Kalibo and its people to assist the farmers to become progressive, to produce more products and increase net income. Then, they become dignified persons worthy of respect. /MP

Kalibo Commemorates 115th Martyrdom of Del Castillo & 19 Aklanons

The Municipality of Kalibo in cooperation with LGU Aklan, and KASAFI commemorated the 115th Annual Martyrdom of Gen. Francisco del Castillo and 19 other Martyrs of Aklan on Friday, March 23 in Kalibo.

The commemoration started with the tolling of church bells in all catholic churches in Aklan. This was followed with a Mass Offering for the 19 Martyrs and patriots of Aklan in Saint John the Baptist Cathedral, Poblacion, Kalibo.

The Holy Mass over, Floral offerings were done at Gat Jose Rizal, Gat Andres Bonifacio, Col. Pastor Martelino, Aklan Veterans Shrine, and Capt. Gil Mijares monuments at Pastrana Park. Civic Military Parade followed which ended at Aklan Freedom Shrine at D. Maagma and Acevedo Streets.

A Commemorative Program was held at the Aklan Freedom Shrine.

LGU Kalibo Municipal Employees Chorale rendered the Doxology, National Anthem, and Aklan Hymn. PC/Insp. Aden T. Lagradante, Kalibo Chief of Police led in the “Panunumpa Sa Watawat”.

Kalibo Mayor William S. Lachica welcomed the guests visitors and descendants of the 19 Martyrs of Aklan. Kalibo Pilot Elementary School Teachers re-enacted the martyrdom.

Hon. Teodorico T. Haresco, Kasangga Party List Representative who was introduced by Hon. Ariel O. Fernandez, Kalibo SB member, gave the commemorative speech.

Also Aklan Gov. Carlito S. Marquez delivered his message.

Kalibo Mayor William S. Lachica led in the Wreath Laying Ceremonies with military honors led by Lt. Col. Alberto C. Desoyo.

Hon. Madeline A. Regalado, Kalibo vice mayor thanked the guests and visitors. Relatives of Aklan heroes, provincial, municipal and barangay officials, civic, and religious organizations offered flowers to the heroes.

Hon. Jay Tejada and Ms. Gaynor Calizo were the commemorative program hosts.

After the commemorative program at the Aklan Freedom Shrine, another commemorative program was held in Gen. F. Del Castillo Memorial School, Mabilo, Kalibo which is one of the barangays where some young men were recruited members of the Katipunan.

One day before the program held at Aklan Freedom Shrine took place, a commemorative program was also held on Thursday morning, March 22 in honor of four Nalookanon members of the 19 Martyrs. /MP

Chiz’s Committee Okays Lands Reclassification Bills, Creates Protected Zones

The Senate Committee on Environment and Natural Resources has approved 11 local bills converting an island to a protected zone and reclassifying several parcels of lands to residential, agricultural or commercial areas.

In a hearing, the Senate Committee on Environment and Natural Resources, chaired by Sen. Chiz Escudero, approved House Bills Nos. 5116, 851, 3974, 4105, 951, 1719, 3973, 3975, 4657, 5409 and 336.

Escudero has ordered the committee secretary to prepare the corresponding com-mittee reports for plenary discussion of the approved legislation originating from the House.

The approval in the committee level of HB No. 5116 will pave the way for the conversion of Murcielos Islands in Labason, Zamboanga del Norte as protected landscape and seascape.

Portions of Roosevelt protected area in the municipalities of Dinalupihan and Hermosa, Bataan will be reclassified as alienable and disposable with the approval of HB No. 851, as well as part of Forbes Park Reservation in Baguio City as agricultural land open to disposition through HB No. 3974.

HB No. 4105, meanwhile, will convert a parcel of land in Salvador Benedicto, Negros Occidental into an agricultural land. HB No. 951, on the other hand, will make a portion of a plot in Barangay Simacolong in Lazi, Siquijor as alienable and disposable.

The approval of HB No. 1719 will make a land of public domain in Siargao, Surigao del Norte an agricultural area, as well as a parcel of land in Barangay Sto. Nino in Sablayan, Occidental Mindoro under HB No. 3973.

Parcels of land of public domain in the municipalities of Bantayan, Daanbantayan, Madridejos and Sta. Fe in Cebu will also be disposed of for agricultural, commercial, residential and tourism purposes through HB No. 3975.

The approval of House Bill No. 4657 will declare certain parcels of land in Barangay Combado in Maasin City, Southern Leyte alienable and disposable. Same goes to a portion of land in Bais, Negros Oriental following the approval of HB No. 5409.

The approval of HB No. 336, meanwhile, will pave the way for the establishment of Bikol Botanical Garden in Camarines Sur.

Urgent Need For Comprehensive Review

of Oil Deregulation Law

Senator Chiz Escudero is pushing for a comprehensive review of the oil deregulation law in order to strengthen the powers of the Department of Finance and the Department of Justice in monitoring and addressing oil price hikes.

Escudero, chairman of the Senate Committee on Justice and Human Rights, reiterated this call contained in Senate Resolution (SR) 217 he filed long time ago.

“The situation in 2008 when oil pump prices reached P60 per liter is looming to happen again now, with our Department of Energy (DOE) saying it so,” Escudero said.

“I am calling for an immediate review of the present oil deregulation law to balance the equilibrium between our government agencies concerned and the oil players in the country,” he added.

Escudero said that Republic Act (RA) 8479, or the oil deregulation law, was enacted to equip the DOE with enough powers to monitor the pump prices and ensure reasonable pricing on the basis of prevailing inventory and market price set by oil companies and dealers.

“But those seem to be just lip service for any oil price increase implemented is faster than lightning. Oil companies can easily raise oil prices without having to seek government’s consent. But the reverse is very glaring when decrease in oil (price) is implemented by oil companies and retailers,” the senator said.

Escudero said the transport sector, which bears the brunt of the price escalations, has to seek and plea for the government’s nod for any fare hike to cope with the escalating prices of petroleum products.

SR 217 seeks a permanent solution and not palliatives to the present oil price problem. Instead of an emergency power for the President, it grants him the standby powers to address the impact of any considerable hikes in oil prices and redefines the concepts of cartelization and predatory pricing as provided for in Section 11 of RA 8479.

“We have to give a tangible solution to the heavy loads of our people from economic realities. We need a solution so that our people can cope with the soaring commodity price increases,” he said.

Escudero urged his colleagues to prioritize the review of the oil deregulation law, citing Section 2 of the existing law which says that it is the policy of the state to liberalize and deregulate the oil industry to ensure a truly competitive market under a regime of fair prices, adequate and continuous supply of environmentally-clean and high petroleum products. /MP

Ochoa Clarifies SBMA Administrator Appointment

Reports have recently surfaced that a certain Mr. Mike Macapagal has been appointed by President Aquino as administrator of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA). To back up this claim, the supposed appointment papers of Mr. Macapagal have been shown to members of the media, together with press releases announcing his appointment to the post.

All these are untrue.

“Mr. Macapagal has not been appointed by the President as SBMA Administrator. Neither has our office prepared or released any appointment papers to that effect”, said Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa, Jr. He has never been considered for the post, which is currently held by SBMA Chair Roberto Garcia, who was appointed SBMA administrator in a concurrent capacity by the President on November 21, 2011", Ochoa added.

Due to the confusion caused in SBMA by the statements of Mr. Macapagal and his representatives, Ochoa directed the National Bureau of Investigation to conduct an investigation into the matter and to prepare the filing of appropriate charges. /MP

THE GOOD LIFE

by MEGS S. LUNN

Ingredients of Inner Peace And Happiness

To be happy, there are two good things to remember. These are:

1. The good things man does to others.

“Service is not about glory. It’s about love. It’s not about something humanitarian once a year or every month. It is meant to be a way of life for every Christian. By opening our eyes to the people around us, we begin to see a multitude of ways we can love our neighbors in our daily lives.”

If one serves others, he does not count the cost, for hard work and sacrifice are parts of life. In Matthew 10:38 – “Jesus calls us to pick up our cross and come after him.” So when we do something good, small or big to our fellowmen, consider it done and forgotten. It is something one doesn’t look forward for something they can give us in return. The reason one helps is caused by one’s need. Man loves to help people who can’t help themselves, in this way, man feels he has done well to him/her. The service that man gives to him/her will be greatly appreciated and that God in heaven will reward him.

2. The bad things that others do to us.

We have the famous GOLDEN RULE. “Do unto others what you want others do unto you.” To better understand it, I would say, man needs to ‘die a little’ so one will become humble to make peace with others even if they do evil to him.

Is it hard? Yes, definitely, it is hard. But I can tell you, it takes practice for any person to be able to do it. If man has the will, he must have the way. It is a way of life for man to simply and quietly forgive others and make peace with himself. Just recently, Fr. Jerry M. Orbos said during his talk, “It is you who is the prisoner and not the person who did evil to you, if you will not forgive and forget.”

Why there are some people who destroy others through ‘bad mouthing’? On the other hand, this is not our problem, it’s their problem. Man wants peace? Makes peace with himself and with the world around him, man must let them see the inner peace that radiates in his face and inspire them of how man lives his life according to the Will of God.

Man wants inner peace? He had to start it now. He may not be a perfect creation of God, but the way he lives his life toward other people, is what refines him in front of God. Then he can be perfect in the eyes of Him. /MP

Reason and Concern

by Ronquillo C. Tolentino

Lawyers Can Be Funny, Too

Watching the impeachment hearings against the Chief Justice, there were moments where I felt amused by the acts of lawyers either from the prosecution or defense sides. Indeed, lawyer can be funny, too.

No wonder that there are numerous books about lawyers anecdotes and jokes about the legal profession.

Herewith are questions from lawyers allegedly taken from official records nationwide in the United States of America, thus:

1. Was that the same nose you broke as a child?

2. Now, doctor, isn’t it true that when a person dies in his sleep, in most cases he just passes quietly away and doesn’t know anything about it until the next morning?

3. Q: What happened then?

A: He told me, he says, “I have to kill you because you can identify me.”

Q: Did he kill you?

4. Was it you or your brother that was killed in the war?

5. The youngest son, the 20-year-old, how old is he?

6. Were you alone or by yourself?

7. How long have you been a French Canadian?

8. Do you have any children or anything of that kind?

9. Q: I show you exhibit 3 and ask you if you recognize that picture.

A: That’s me.

Q: Were you present when that picture was taken?

10. Were you present in court this morning when you were sworn in?

11. Q: Now, Mrs. Johnson, how was your first marriage ter-minated?

A: By death.

Q: And by whose death was it terminated?

12. Q: Do you know how far pregnant you are now?

A: I’ll be three months on November 8.

Q: Apparently, then, the date of conception was August 8?

A: Yes.

Q: What were you doing at that time?

13. Q: Mrs. Jones, do you believe you are emotionally stable?

A: I used to be.

Q: How many times have you committed suicide?

14. So you were gone until you returned?

15. Q: She had three children, right?

A: Yes.

Q: How many were boys?

A: None.

Q: Were there girls?

16. You don’t know what it was, and you didn’t know what it looked like, but can you describe it?

17. Q: You say that the stairs went down to the basement?

A: Yes.

Q: And these stairs, did they go up also?

18. Q: Have you lived in this town all your life?

A: Not yet.

19. A Texas attorney, realizing he was on the verge of unleashing a stupid question, interrupted himself and said, “Your Honor, I’d like to strike the next question.”

20. Q: Do you recall approximately the time that you examined the body of Mr. Edington at the Rose Chapel?

A: It was in the evening. The autopsy started about 8:30 p.m.

Q: And Mr. Edington was dead at the time, is that correct?

A: No, you stupid, he was sitting on the table wondering why I was doing an autopsy! /MP