Libacao’s 4Ps Beneficiaries Get Cash Grants

Ms. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo congratulates on her arrival in Libacao, Aklan Mayor Charito Navarosa. At her back is DENR Secretary Lito Atienza.

(RONALD NAVARRO/PCPO/ PNS)

Ms. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo should have witnessed the beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pampamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) of Libacao town get their first cash grants through Automated Teller Machine (ATM) specially installed by the Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) in Libacao, Aklan for the purpose.

But a strong tornado struck in Libacao the night before. It spoiled the first-of-a-kind experience for them. All the same, they got their cash grants from the President during her first-ever visit to this hinterland town in Aklan on August 7.

The 4Ps is a poverty reduction strategy that grants cash to extremely poor households to improve their health, nutrition and education particularly of children aged 0-14 years.

Ms. Arroyo led in the distribution of cash grants to the 2,602 household beneficiaries from 24 barangays with cash grants amounting to P3,842,000 covering sub- sidies for the months of May and June. The release has started on July 22 this year to a total of 806 household beneficiaries coming from 12 barangays amounting to P1,195,100. The remaining 1,796 beneficiaries in 12 barangays received their cash subsidies amounting to P2,645,900 last Friday, August 7.

Under the program, a household beneficiary can receive as much as P1,400 for a maximum of three children that includes P500/month for nutrition and health expenses and P300/month per child with a maximum of three children per household for educational expenses.

Rowena Ladate, one of the beneficiaries of 4Ps of Barangay Alfonso VII said the program is a big blessing to her family. Tearful but happy, she said this will augment her family’s needs, having four small children. As a beneficiary, she will get P500 per month and P300 each for her three children of school age.

Juvy Agustin of Sebalew, Libacao has a three-week old baby left at home as she waited for her turn to get her cash grant under the hot sun. Married at 18, she has five kids already at 29, the eldest being 11 years old. With misty eye she expressed thanks to this program of Ms. Arroyo, as this will help her family a lot. Her husband, she said, has no permanent job.

Most of the benefi-ciaries are mothers, who said that their children are regular schoolgoers, one condition that will enable them to continuously receive the cash grants within five years.

Besides cash distribution for 4Ps, the President also inaugurated the 1,280 lineal meter River Revetment Wall Resting on cut-off wall project at Poblacion, LIbacao. The project costs P40 million from LOGOFIND Libacao LGU borrowed from World Bank. Project started on June 1, 2007 but Typhoon Frank damaged the initial constructed structure. It was continued without additional costs and was completed on June l5, 2009.

Seven POs from various Aklan munici-palities also received checks for DENR’S Upland Development Program amounting to a total of P2,596,626.20.

DENR Sec. Lito Atienza gave a briefing on solid Waste Management, while Climate Change Presidential Adviser Sec. Heherson Alvarez briefed on Climate Change.

Libacao Mayor Charito Navarrosa, welcomed PGMA and party and thanked her for gracing Libacao with the first-ever Presidential visit. He also thanked the President for including Libacao as one of the beneficiaries of her flagship program, the 4Ps. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)/MP

Environment Management in Aklan

Atty. Florencio Gonzales discussing the effect of continued tree cutting in Aklan during the August 1 Kapehan. At his left is Mr. John Kenneth Almalbis

and Mr. Derlito Rico.

Environmental concerns about air, water and solid waste were emphasized at the weekly Kapehan on August 8, 2009. Panelists discussed the topic, "Environment Management". Invited speakers were Engr. John Kenneth C. Almalbis, AKENRO, Mr. Derlito C. Rico, PENRO and Atty. Florencio Gonzales, former SP member and environmentalist.

Atty. Ronquillo C. Tolentino cited Article 2, Section 16 of the 1987 Constitution that the State shall protect and advance the right of the people to a balanced and healthful ecology in accord with the harmony and rhythm of nature. He said "there have been drastic climatic changes in the country for the last 40 years with occurrence of El Niño in 1972, 1983 and 1997. Everyone is reeling from its impact because of magnitude, severity and frequency."

Engr. Almalbis said that DENR is responsible for the protection and conservation of natural resources particularly on the existing 49 percent forest cover and overseeing implementation of the proposed Environmental Code of Aklan.

The DENR office have community-based forest management project implemented by People’s Organizations (PO’s) and beneficiaries of Integrated Social Forestry (ISF). This is found in Ibajay, Tangalan, Makato, Nabas, and Libacao. ISF program was instituted in 1982 based on LOI 1260 where bonafide forest occupants are given stewardship certificates usually 3 – 5 has. for agro-forestry. Duration is 25 years subject to renewal according to Derlito Rico. Presently, 79 families have expired ISP contracts, hence on-going evaluation.

Atty. Gonzales lamented the deplorable condition especially the quality and the bio-diversity of Aklan rivers, lakes, seas and forest cover. He said, "bottom line of all these is greed". Citing facts, Aklan river has never cleared up since typhoon Frank last year. Rich fishing ground at the mouth of Aklan river has disappeared completely. Once abundant coral reef formation from New Washington down to Buruanga is nowhere to be found. Where once healthy stand of mangrove trees grow, are now replaced by fishponds. Now where do you think our hardwood lumber went?" he asked. "It’s found in homes of influential people."

Meanwhile, Atty. Allen S. Quimpo underscored the key to solving environmental problems lies with the people themselves. It is about attitudinal change and participatory approach. Kalibo’s Bakhawan project now covering 110 hectares is a sterling example of community mobilization. Just recently PGMA turned over a check of P336,000 as financial support for eco-tourism and livelihood projects.

Mr. Edwin Ramos, Info Officer, PIA reported that an average person produces 15-20 kilograms of carbon dioxide (CO2) per year. CO2 ­ is one of several lethal gases in the stratosphere that traps heat called greenhouse effect and causes earths’ tempe-rature to rise. Global warming spawns erratic weather like El Niño, La Niña, earthquakes and tornadoes. Ramos said that it is highly recommended that a minimum of 30 trees be planted by each person per year to mitigate global warming.

Issues and concerns are indifference and apathy on environment management by a large segment of the population. Solid waste generated by every person per day amounts to one half kilogram. This means a total of 247,561 kilograms of solid wastes daily produced by 500,000 Aklanons. Considering that 20 percent of these wastes, mainly non-biodegradable, are not properly collected and disposed, it invariably ends up into rivers, creeks, and drainage canals. In addition, all the 17 towns in Aklan do not have sanitary landfills as mandated by RA 9003.

Conversion of Kalibo’s 2.7 hectares dumpsite into state of the art sanitary landfill has a tab of P20 million. Now, where will other cash strap municipalities turn to for help?

Mr. Rico has vowed to put more teeth in the proposed Provincial Environment Code. Yet, there is lukewarm public acceptance and support given the limited logistics and trained manpower.

Undoubtedly, LGU Numancia is at the forefront in solid waste management where garbage is religiously segregated, recycled, reduced and re-used. One Town, One Product implemented by DTI is remarkable for converting biodegradable wastes into vermicast, an earthworm based organic fertilizer.

Sabah, Malaysia may have only a fraction of our 100 laws, decrees and ordinance, but her forest management is one of the world’s best. In that country, forest concessionaires dutifully observe their rights and responsibilities as stipulated in the memo-randum of agreement. For every harvestable tree logged, 17 forest tree seedlings are planted, cared and protected until next harvesting cycle of 25 years. Indeed, her program is profitable, sustainable and desirable.

We have similar forest concessions in the Philippines, but the DENR, PNP and LGU officials collude with illegal loggers to make a mockery of our forestry laws.

DENR data show that at the turn of the 20th century, 80 percent of our 30 million hectares were forested. Presently, what is left is merely 1.5 million hectares. Downward slide is triggered by illegal loggers also known as carabao logging, kaingeros, and firewood gatherers. Our forest destruction per day is 17 hectares while reforestation efforts is barely 3.0 hectares. With most of our forest gone, our endemic species of flora and fauna deteriorated. Younger generation may find them only in zoos and or museum as stuff animals.

Kalibo has one of longest, and natural comfort rooms in Aklan. Infamous area is Purok 1 to 4 where fecal matter is wrapped in plastic. Households living closed to Aklan river bank think it’s natural for them to do their thing and dispose other kinds of garbage. It is urgently necessary that 30 meters fallback ordinance on dwelling units be implemented by municipal government of Kalibo.

The provincial capital town is also known for its obnoxious comfort room at Pastrana Park. Perhaps charging service fee of P2.00 – P5.00 from each person who uses the comfort room is very reasonable for its upkeep and cleanliness.

Street drainage has been a growing problem in Kalibo as excess rainwater creates cesspools and gigantic carabao pools. Basically, old drainage canals are mangled beyond recognition by real estate owners. Dark fetid water moves at a snail pace in Andagao and New Buswang creeks. MMDA Chairman Bayani Fernando has cleared esteros of unwanted dwelling units and tons of garbage on waterways in Metro Manila which can also be done in Aklan.

Our forest laws are the best in the world but are not implemented. It is a big disappointment if illegal logging or mining exist and justice not meted out to violators. Mayor Edward Hagedorn of Puerto Princessa City was fined after he was found guilty littering.

Environment management thrives only when there is conscious collaborative effort to succeed. Critical issues like climate change, ecology, productivity, human health and tourism are inextricably link to environment. It is therefore necessary that priority and additional funding be instituted to address deplorable condition of the environment. /MP

“Muling Pagtanaw, Bagong Pananaw”

Aklan’s Concert at the Park will present "Muling Pagtanaw, Bagong Pananaw".

This is a cultural, historical dance perfor-mances to be held on the forthcoming September 14 at the ABL Sports Complex, Capitol Ground, Estancia, Kalibo.

The Aklan Provincial Government with the Provincial Tourism Office, Region VI; Girl Scouts of the Philippines, Aklan Council; and the DepEd Aklan will present a wholesome family entertainment which highlights the country’s rich Filipino history, culture, and heritage. This will be a live show consisting of a varied performance, rituals, songs, and costumes.

This all will be performed by the ECD Dance Company of the Philippines, an internationally acclaimed dance troupe.

While it is enjoyable, it aims to instill interest in the appreciation of our Philippine history, culture, and tradition. It is also designed to educate the students on the importance of preserving Filipino varied dance traditions which inspire the present and future generations.

There will be two presentations. One will be at 9:00 o’clock in the morning and the other will be at 2:00 o’clock in the afternoon. A modest amount of P20.00 per ticket for students and P50.00 for patrons will be charged per show.

Re-greening and Beautification Project Resumes

Aklan Re-greening and Beautification Project, now on its second phase of implementation resumed on July to December 2009. A project of the Provincial Government of Aklan, it aims to rehabilitate the province from the aftermath of typhoon "Frank", announced Gov. Carlito S. Marquez.

To ensure continuity and sustainability thereafter, the project will be implemented subsequently every six (6) months or semi-annually. Last year’s initial launching in Nov. 2008 has transformed Aklan’s major road networks into a clean and vibrant display of varied floral and other ornamental plants making it a show window of creativity, resourcefulness and teamwork among the constituent barangays and municipalities.

The project is designed in the form of a contest involving the different constituent barangays and private residential owners residing along national highways and provincial roads, to plant and beautify their respective designated areas to transform the same into a tourist attraction.

There are two (2) segments of participants involved in the contest, the Eastern and Western districts of the province. Each barangay participant shall be provided a financial subsidy of P10,000 and engineering support from the Prov’l. Engineer’s Office.

The project has three (3) phases of implementation. First phase, Registration and Submission of Entries by each participating barangay and individual residential owners, respectively. Second phase, Judging of Entries in Sept., 2009 for the First Evaluation, and November, 2009 for the Second Evaluation. Third phase, Awarding of Winners in December, 2009.
Prizes to barangay participants consist of a trophy for all winners and cash prizes of P50,000 for the First Prize, P35,000 for Second Prize and P20,000 for Third Prize respectively. For participating individual residential owners include also a trophy for each of the winners and cash prizes of P15,000 for the First Prize, P10,000 for Second Prize, and P5,000 for Third Prize. A Certificate of Appreciation shall be presented to all the contest participants. /MP

Hilary and Bill: Inspired by Cory’s ‘Quiet Strength’

by ALEX P. Vidal

LOS ANGELES, California – When she was alive, the late former Philippine President Corazon Cojuangco Aquino had inspired two prominent political figures in the United States: former U.S President Bill Clinton and his wife, Secretary of State Hilary.

In a statement released from Washington hours after the death of the first Filipino woman president at a Manila hospital at age 76, Secretary Hilary Rodham Clinton disclosed that "like millions of people worldwide, Bill and I were inspired by her quiet strength and her unshakable commitment to justice and freedom. We join the American and Filipino people in honoring her life and memory."

She declared: "I extend my deepest condolences to the Aquino family and all the people of the Philippines on the death of former President Corazon Aquino."

"Cory Aquino was beloved by her nation and admired by the world for her extraordinary courage after the assassination of her husband, and later, during her service as president. She helped bring democracy back to the Philippines after many years of authoritarian rule with a faith in her country and its people that never wavered," Secretary Clinton added. The 76-year-old Aquino, icon of people power in the Philippines and around the world, passed away at 3:18 a.m. Saturday. The official cause of death was cardiorespiratory arrest.

Cory or "Tita Cory", as she was popularly known, was diagnosed with colon cancer in March 2008 and was treated with chemotherapy.

Aquino underwent surgery to have parts of her colon removed last May 2009. She was brought back to the Makati Medical Center in June due to loss of appetite.

She stayed there, as her declining condition sparked a wave of emotion in the country and prompted the widespread appearance of yellow ribbons - on trees, car antennas, and even the Web as inspired by a popular song in the 70’s, "Tie A Yellow Ribbon In The Old Oak Tree", which, incidentally, became the theme song of her husband’s release from jail.

Aquino, widow of the assassinated opposition leader Benigno "Ninoy", died of colon cancer at about 3:30 in the morning of August 1 (Philippine time).
Her body was to lie in state until August 3, morning and then be moved to the Manila Cathedral until her funeral on August 5. She was buried beside her beloved husband Ninoy in Manila Memorial Park, Paranaque, Metro Manila. /MP

Aklan PPO Police Community Relations Performance

The Aklan Police Provincial Office topped the 2nd quarter performance evaluation for the period 01 April to 20 June 2009, besting eight other Police Provincial Offices in Western Visayas.

The Regional Police Community Relations Division spearheaded by the Officer-In Charge Police Superintendent Ranulfo I Demiar conducted the evaluation.

The quarter evaluation rated the accomplishments of PPO’s on Sambayan and Santinig efforts, programs/projects and activities with accumulated points of 157, Administrative accomplishments with 5 points. The Aklan PPO scored 137. 25 points.

The Aklan PPO has topped the evaluation rating last 2005. It always placed on the 3rd to 4th place. However, through the all out efforts and support exerted by different police stations, it turned out positive result. It scored high in community assistance development garnering 39.82 out of 44 points, impact projects, Salaam Police Center accomplish-ments and Integrated Transformation Program.

The Aklan Police Provincial Office was adjudged "Best Provincial Police Office" in Western Visayas last year.

Search for Outstanding Barangay Tanod Starts

The Aklan Police Provincial Office in coordination with DILG, Bureau of Fire and Protection, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, National Police Commission, PPSC and Local Government Units are now evaluating the documents of qualified entries in the provincial level for the Search of Outstanding Barangay Tanod.

The search has four categories: Best performing Barangay Tanods as Individual, groups, posthumous/exemplary performer and heroism.

Some six entries of barangays are now on the process of evaluation prior to recommen-dation in the Regional level. The barangays of Poblacion for group category and individual in Linabuan Sur from the municipality of Banga. Also group category for Brgy Aranas, Balete, while individual categories in Brgy Morales, Balete, Brgy Poblacion, New Washington; and Brgy Balabag, Malay.

The search aims to recognize the best performing Barangay Tanods not only in the provincial level but the whole Western Visayas in the pursuit of the implementation and management of Peace and Order Council Programs (POC), projects and through the initiatives of the coordinative agencies.

It will strengthen the volunteer system and auxiliary network between and among public and private responders. To strengthen the monitoring system at various level and to provide vehicle for improvement of skills, knowledge and techniques in pursuit of the preservation of peace and order and public safety.

DILG Provincial Director Jenny Destua said, barangay tanods serve their barangays on a purely voluntary basis risking their lives and limbs to preserve peace and order in their locality, for minimal or negligible financial remunerations.

Their spirits of unwavering concern and volunteerism deserve recognition and honour through the conduct of the 2009 Search for Outstanding Barangay Tanods, Destua stressed./MP

KANDAHAR OFWs’ DEATH A WAKE UP CALL

Sen. Chiz Escudero last week said the tragic death of 10 OFWs in a helicopter crash in Kandahar, Afghanistan should convince the government to ensure that Filipino citizens are not deployed to countries where the peace and order situation remains volatile.

"I believe there is a ban on deploying workers to Afghanistan, Iraq, Lebanon and Nigeria. And yet, it seems many are able to land jobs in these countries, despite the risks involved in going and working there" he noted.

According to Escudero, the uncertain circumstances surrounding the hiring of the 10 OFW’s bring up speculations of illegal deployment to facilitate their employment right under the noses of government officials.

"It is not enough to just clamp down on illegal recruiters or impose stricter controls at immigration counters. We must also ensure that laws concerning the entry of OFWs to a number of countries are observed," he pointed out.

Since there are at least 12 million OFWs in 190 countries, Escudero called on the government to provide more funding to all Philippine embassies and consulates so that they can attend to the needs of all Filipinos.

"We must ensure that our embassies and consulates have enough funds and personnel to react to all possible situations. More importantly, we must empower them to prevent the abuse of our workers," Escudero suggested.

He also said foreign offices should identify the comparative advantages of OFWs vis-a-vis the country to which they are assigned.

"This is important so we can specifically target the skills required by the host nation in order to be able to send the best qualified OFW."

Remittances last year from OFWs, which make up around 11 percent of the Philippine population, totaled $15.9 billion, more than 50 percent higher than $10 billion in 2005. /MP

Shaping the Future of Altavas Through Local And Regional Economic Development Initiatives

by Rhea M. Ledesma

The stakeholders of the Municipality of Altavas are one in saying that they are the Center of Trade and Industry, booming with economic activities that stirs the growth of their local economy. The Municipality of Altavas, a fourth class municipality, has high hopes of achieving a third class status in the months ahead. It has started looking at strategic focus and options where their resources can have maximum results.

Last month, Altavas embarked on a strategic and development planning process, which we referred to as the Local/Regional Economic Development (LRED). It aims to forge public private partnership to promote holistic economic growth in Altavas. This LRED initiative is headed by Mayor Kathryne Refol to enlist everyone’s participation to come up with viable economic projects that will stimulate economic growth. Organized by the Department of Trade and Industry-Aklan represented by its Provincial Director, Engr. Diosdado P. Cadena, Jr. with its partner agency, the German Technical Cooperation represented by Ms. Rhea Ledesma, the GTZ Regional Coordinator for Western Visayas organized LRED.

LRED is an approach to bring people together from the private and the public sector to have a dialogue and discuss possible strategic inter-ventions to identified problems. LRED involves the conduct of the Rapid Economic Appraisal (REA) to capture the local economic condition by conducting interviews with the private businesses, the academe, NGOs, LGUs present in the locality. The result of the REA is an important input as to how the action plans will be formulated, an output of the LRED planning process.

LRED is also one of the major interventions in the SMEDSEP program (Small and Medium Enterprise Development for Sustainable Employment Program). SMEDSEP is a development cooperation project between the Philippines and Germany. It aims to: 1. improve the business and investment climate for SME in the Philippines, especially in the Visayas, and 2. contributes to the efforts of the Philippine government to improve the framework conditions for private sector development in the country. It is implemented in partnership with DTI at national, regional and provincial levels on behalf of the Philippine government and the German Technical Cooperation (GTZ) on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).

GTZ is an international cooperation enterprise for sustainable development with worldwide operations owned by the German Government. For 30 years, it has been providing forward looking con-tributions to political, economic, ecological and social development in partner countries. GTZ supports reform and change processes in an increasingly globalized world, often working under difficult conditions. GTZ’s major approach to facilitate change is promoting capacity development of people and partner organizations as well as improving institutions and frame conditions in partner countries. The joint projects and programs are outcome and impact oriented that contribute towards socioeconomic progress. /MP

EDITORIAL

D.A. Completing 21 Priority
Irrigation Projects

The Department of Agriculture (DA) is completing 21 priority irrigation projects in strategically located sites of the Philippines in line with the government’s goal to attain food security, sufficiency, and to raise the farmers’ income by providing efficient irrigation system to their farms.

The National Irrigation Administration (NIA), which is implementing these projects, identified seven projects in Luzon, six in the Visayas, seven in Mindanao , and small re-servoir projects nationwide.

In a report to DA Secretary Arthur Yap, NIA administrator Carlos Salazar said these ongoing projects that were laid out by President Arroyo in her 2006 State-of-the-Nation Address (SONA) include the Banaoag Pump Irrigation Project in Ilocos Sur; Agno River Irrigation Project in Pangasinan; Casecnan Multipurpose Irrigation and Power Project and the Aulo Small Reservoir Irrigation Project, both in Nueva Ecija.

The other SONA-identified projects are the Addalam River Irrigation Project in Quirino; Libmanan-Cabusao Irrigation Project in Camarines Sur; Balog-Balog Multipurpose Project in Tarlac; Bago River Irrigation System and Rehabilitation and Improvement Project in Negros Occidental; Bohol II Irrigation Project in Bohol; Help for Catubig Agricultural Advancement Project in Northern Samar; Southern Philippines Irrigation Sector Project for Regions 6, 7 and 13; and the Dolores Irrigation Project in Eastern Samar; Basey Irrigation Project in Western Samar.

Also in the priority list of SONA-identified projects are the Balingasag Irrigation Project in Misamis Oriental; Talakag Irrigation Project in Bukidnon; Sta. Josefa Pump Irrigation Project in Agusan del Sur; Malaig River Irrigation Project in Lanao del Sur; Rugnan River Irrigation Project also in Lanao del Sur; Kabulnan II Multipurpose Irrigation and Power Project in Sultan Kudarat; Malitubog-Maridagao Irrigation Project Stage 2 in Maguindanao; and the Small Reservoir Irrigation Projects, which are being implemented nationwide.

Yap said that focusing on irrigation and other rural infrastructures had already yielded positive results with palay production expanding by 5.1 percent or double its average growth a year ago. The NIA’s rehabilitation and restoration work has allowed farmers to plant an additional 69,000 hectares of farmland or 5.7 percent more than last year.

"Such gains are the result of the President’s increased spending on agriculture– P25.36 billion in 2007; P36.55 billion in 2008; and P46.86 billion this year," Yap said.

Presidential economic adviser and Albay Gov. Joey Salceda has recommended that the government pour more "stimulus funds" into Philippine agriculture, particularly into irrigation, to sustain the sector’s resilience and its status as a primary growth driver even in the midst of a global financial contagion.

He directed NIA to give priority to dys-functional existing irrigation systems, especially the restoration and rehabi-litation of facilities, rather than starting new projects as this strategy has an immediate impact on the potential farmer-beneficiaries and will prove to be more cost-effective in the long run.

According to him, NIA is expected to vigorously pursue the restoration and rehabilitation of inactive irrigation service areas, both national and communal, and spear-head the completion of several big-ticket foreign- assisted projects.

On the rehabilitation and restoration of existing irrigation systems, the NIA is targeting an area covering a total of 368,000 hectares under a program being imple-mented till 2010 under President Arroyo’s FIELDS program.

FIELDS, enumerates the six areas where government support is being focused under the government’s food security and sufficiency agenda, stands for Fertilizers, Irrigation and other rural infrastructure like farm-to-market roads, extension services and education for farmers, loans, dryers and other post harvest facilities, seeds and other genetic materials.

NIA has so far rehabilitated 103,568 hectares existing com-munal and national irrigation systems and restored 122,909 hectares since 2006 using funds it has received totalling P7.27 billion.

For 2009, the government has allocated P8 billion to NIA to restore facilities servicing 133,000 hectares and rehabilitate those covering 68,000 hectares.

Salazar said that besides rehabilitating and restoring irrigation systems, the agency is also implementing a three-step approach to increase cropping intensity, which means increasing irrigated areas of farmlands.

This approach involves 1) the quick turnaround (QTA) program. This encourages farmers to plant three times a year or adding one more in between the regular dry and wet season crops; 2) adoption of water management practices to maximize the available water supply; and 3) organization and development of farmer-beneficiaries to increase their capability to manage and operate irrigation systems.

But what is the irrigation project of NIA in Aklan included in this multi billion irrigation program? /MP

AKLAN ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE, INC.
(AKELCO)
Lezo, Aklan
Tel. Nos. 274-72-74; 274-7275; Hotline 144
Text Hotline 09074223629

INVITATION TO BID

The Aklan Electric Cooperative, Inc. (AKELCO) invites qualified suppliers to submit sealed bids for the Cost of Materials for the CONSTRUCTION OF SINGLE PHASE PRIMARY LINE EXTENSION FOR 5 SITIOS SUBSIDY FUNDED PROJECTS OF CONGRESSMAN FLORENCIO T. MIRAFLORES.

Deadline of submission of bids will be on August 12, 2009, Wednesday at exactly 1:00 o’clock in the afternoon at the AKELCO Main Office, Lezo, Aklan. Late bids will not be accepted. Opening of bids will immediately follow.

All Bidders qualifications shall include but not limited to the following:

1. Business Permit

2. SEC Registration

3. Certificate of Registration of Business Name

Interested parties may come to AKELCO Main Office, Lezo, Aklan before the scheduled Bidding Conference for further clarifications and queries.

Engr. ROGEN B. DELOS REYES
AGM For Operations
PBAC chairman

Entrepreneurial Farmer

Ambrosio R. Villorente

Congratulations!

This column cong-ratulates the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Kalibo, Aklan for relocating its offices to their new office building in BLISS site, Poblacion, Kalibo, Aklan. According to Mr. Baltazar Gerardo, CENRO, his legacy will save the government P38,000.00 per month or P556,000.00 annually for the payment of office rental. Congratulations DENR Aklan for your courage and determination to acquire a piece of land and to construct office building. DENR Aklan has been renting office space since its foundation in Aklan in 1957 or for the last 52 years.

Congratulation is also extended to the Regional Trial Court, Kalibo, Aklan. Its Hall of Justice building located in Capitol ground, Kalibo, Aklan is just completed. All the regional trial court branches returned to the newly reconstructed Hall of Justice building, beautifully repaired after typhoon Frank badly destroyed it on June 21, 2008. Destroyed with the building were furniture, office files, office equipment, supplies and others.

The honorable judges and their respective personnel had returned to the more beautifully rebuilt Hall of Justice building which cost less than P40 million. Congratulations!

Hon. Marietta J. Homena-Valencia, executive judge has issued a dress code to follow for people who had official business to do inside the Hall of Justice building.

Women

The Philippine Constitution in Article XII, Section 14 on women states, "The state shall protect working women by providing safe and healthful working conditions, taking into account their maternal functions, and such facilities and opportunities that will enhance their welfare and enable them to realize their full potential in the service of the nation".

In the "Kapehan" on Saturday, August 1, Rose Nepomuceno of "Women of Aklan" informed the members of the media of their five priorities which are: a) woman entrepreneurial knowledge, knowledge and skills development; b) family health and wellness; c) good governance; d) women empowerment; and e) environment.
Asked to rank their priorities from first to fifth; Sylvia Quinesio was misty eyed. She recalled how women are battered, tortured and abused here and abroad. Her tears simply mean she loves the Philippines, particularly Aklan. Do you cry for your country and people?

God has vested women the sole function to bear and rear children. They are the most effective home managers taking care in the molding of their children into a most productive, loyal, and law abiding citizens. In the home, mothers are the managers, be it finance, food, and other resources. The quality of citizens a country has is in the hands of the mothers.

Above all, mother has the greatest influence in the shaping of the character of their children, the future citizens of the nation. The character of the citizen of the country is influenced by mothers, at least a big chunk of it. But where are some of our mothers?

May Aklan women put child bearing, rearing and management their prime priority.

Thank You

Thank you Engr. Roberto Cabigas for installing the "no entry" sign near the newly completed bridge in Ibajay, Aklan. This will surely avoid accident just in front of the ASU, Ibajay Campus.

The need of this signage was brought to the attention of Engr. Cabigas during the Kapehan on July 25. /MP

Kalibo Town Offers Mass For Cory Aquino’s Honor

by TERENCE T. TORIANO

The town of Kalibo offered a Holy Mass in honor of the late former President Corazon "Cory" Aquino on Monday morning, August 3, held at the Municipal Social and Conference Hall, Kalibo Municipal bldg., Kalibo.
Rev. Fr. Peter Kim Dela Cruz of the Parish of St. John the Baptist Cathedral was the main celebrant. He lauded Mayor Raymar A. Rebaldo and the employees of Kalibo for sponsoring the holy mass in honor of the late President Cory Aquino, to recognize her sacrifices to restore democracy, freedoms, and for the eternal repose of her soul.

Municipal employees, key officials, division heads, and elected officials like SB members Lillian Q. Tirol and Greg Malapad attended the mass. They wore yellow ribbons and barong.

In his homily, Fr. Kim extoled the deeds of the late Cory Aquino.

In Pastrana Park, Women of Aklan also held a thank you program for Cory on Thursday, August 5 led by Rose Nepomuceno. /MP

RC Forbes Makati Honors Megs

The Rotary Club of Forbes Makati with IPP Ed Escano awarded Megs Lunn a PRESIDENTIAL CITATION for the partnership in Operation Taghoy and Project W.A.L.K - Wishes of Aid and Limbs for Kids partnership last Rotary Year.

The two men behind the successful joint project with Megs Lunn (right) on project WALK - Pres. Markus (center) of Iloilo Rotary club and IPP Ed (far right) of RC Forbes Park. The awarding was held at Day’s Hotel, Iloilo on July 24 with DG Edgar Sy (right) witnessing the solemn occasion. Megs shares the plaque to her former RC Kalibo members "for their collective efforts they extended to me in Making Dreams Real last RY 2008-2009".
Arnel Ropero (far right), a 13 year old boy 1st ever beneficiary of the project was also given the same recognition during the joint induction ceremonies of Rotary clubs in Iloilo where IPP Ed Escano was the inspiration speaker. /MP

Women in Aklan, Their Mission

by Ernesto T. Solidum

"Woman in Aklan" leaders from left are: Sylvia Quenisio, Cecille de Lemos, Rose Nepomuceno, and Melrose S. Lunn.

It was a topic of notable interest. Gender development was dis-cussed during the weekly Kapehan on August 1, 2009. Panelists were officers from the newly formed organization – Women Aklan namely: Rose F. Nepomuceno – president; Megs Lunn – secretary; Sylvia Quinesio – treasurer; and Cecille de Lemos – PRO.

Atty. Ronquillo C. Tolentino, former chair-person, Women’s Com-mittee of Sangguniang Panlalawigan Aklan under-scored the invaluable contribution of women in society. Article 2, Section 47 of the Philippine Constitution guarantees equal protection, equality, and privilege to women. Enacted laws are Anti Sexual Harassment Act, Anti Rape Act, Micro Women’s Enterprises, Anti Violence Against Women and Their Children, Solo Parenthood Law, and Family Code of the Philippines.

In the province of Aklan, the passage of Gender Development Act acknowledges the vital role and ensures development assistance for empowering women in their respective fields of endeavor.

Some shining examples of women in governance are the late Pres. Corazon C. Aquino, icon of democracy, former Senator Geronima Pecson, Isabela Governor Grace Padaca and many others.

Ms. Nepomuceno is recipient of a US Visitor’s Cultural Exchange Program in 2008 who visited key cities in the US that included Washington DC, Alabama, San Diego, New York, and Kansas. Her observation and insights on the impact of women organizations in business, industry and governance were very significant in securing vibrant economy and stability of democratic institutions. She urged women in Aklan to develop their talents particularly entrepreneurial skills and engage in visible projects that would improve family income and boost personal confidence.

Nepomuceno enume-rated five strategic advocacies namely: a) Women entrepreneurial knowledge, attitude, and skills development, b) Family health and wellness, c) Good governance, d) Women empowerment, and e) Environment. "All these activities shall be undertaken in the spirit of volunteerism and commitment creating awareness, self respect and fulfillment to all women. Eventually, this will lead to woman power," she stressed.

It appears that advocacies of the organization is headed by a competent chairperson namely: Entrepreneurship – Rose Nepomuceno, Family Health and Wellness – Cecille de Lemos, Good Governance – Megs Lunn, - Women Empowerment – Sylvia Quinesio while Environment is open to other leaders.

Other relevant issues can be taken up but for the time being, we need to concentrate on few things meanwhile that resources are limited said Lunn. Women Aklan is non–profit, non – sectarian and mass based, she added.

Nepomuceno is a registered CPA and owner proprietor of Lucky Photo Center in Kalibo. She is also a handicraft manufacturer and exporter. Her Vice Pres. Editha T. Ureta–Reyes is also certified public accountant whose expertise could be used to discuss micro finance and practical bookkeeping. Accomplish-ments so far are sponsorship of two medical missions (Madalag and Numancia), breast-feeding, weekly aerobic exercise at Pastrana Park, tree planting, donation of cigarette butt bins and sponsoring speaking engagement of whistle-blower Jun Lozada at Aklan Catholic College and the Northwestern Visayan Colleges, the latter a public support for good governance.

Issues and concerns are growing migration (temporary and permanent) of 8.7 million Pinoys from 2000 to 2007. Although the latest Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas data show $16.4 billion were remitted by OFW’s in 2008, monetary consideration pales beyond break-up of long held family values and traditions. Research studies indicate that solo parenting has resulted in more social problems like marital infidelity, teenage pregnancies, drug abuse, minors in conflict with the law, family break-ups and seemingly lack of loyalty to the Philippines.

It would be timely if Women in Aklan spear-headed technology transfer of entrepreneurial skills in small and medium scale industries to provide local employment. It should be noted that compensation benefits of women are significantly lower than men and suffer more physical and emotional abuses from their employers.

Cottage industries that are in demand abroad are our abaca and piña products, food preserves, among others. Needed skills are in dressmaking, embroidery, cosmetology, physical therapy and catering for the tourism industry. These are classified as short term courses that could be coordinated with TESDA.

It is ironic that the United States has only 53 percent of total women fully employed in manufacturing and service sector. Yet, family income is more than adequate to meet basic needs of life. Sundays and holidays are spent on recreation, dining out and concentrating on hobbies.

On the other hand, Pinoy wife works full time, 18 hours a day, seven days a week without pay on endless housekeeping chores, caring for the children and hubby. If the wife happened to be well off and empowered, someone must take her place, for example employ household assistant.

Marrying a Filipina is great according to some Americans, British, and Australians who married Pinays. Their reasons are quite similar. They hate empowered women since they can not keep them at home. Perhaps male dominance, chauvinism or macho image is threatened here. On the other hand, Pinays are homebodies, family centered, loving, faithful and reliable. What’s wrong with that?

Women in Aklan has noble goals. It certainly attracts many adherents to their cause but priorities must be established. A person may have know-ledge and talent but if he lacks financial capability then empowerment will be meaningless. In other words, to focus first to raise their income level will also upgrade their dignity and social responsibility.

The Book of Proverbs 31:10 – 31 tells about a virtuous woman and can be aptly summarized in an acronym: W – work, O – overseer, M – manager, A – action and N – neat. Christian wives must be guided by this biblical injunction. /MP

Kalibo Town Offers Mass For Cory Aquino’s Honor

by TERENCE T. TORIANO

The town of Kalibo offered a Holy Mass in honor of the late former President Corazon "Cory" Aquino on Monday morning, August 3, held at the Municipal Social and Conference Hall, Kalibo Municipal bldg., Kalibo.

Rev. Fr. Peter Kim Dela Cruz of the Parish of St. John the Baptist Cathedral was the main celebrant. He lauded Mayor Raymar A. Rebaldo and the employees of Kalibo for sponsoring the holy mass in honor of the late President Cory Aquino, to recognize her sacrifices to restore democracy, freedoms, and for the eternal repose of her soul.

Municipal employees, key officials, division heads, and elected officials like SB members Lillian Q. Tirol and Greg Malapad attended the mass. They wore yellow ribbons and barong.

In his homily, Fr. Kim extoled the deeds of the late Cory Aquino.

In Pastrana Park, Women of Aklan also held a thank you program for Cory on Thursday, August 5 led by Rose Nepomuceno. /MP

BFI Inaugurates Kapehan Sa Boracay

The Committee on Community Relations of BFI and Radio Boracay 106.1 FM launched the "Kapehan Sa Boracay" last month. The program tackles various issues and concerns affecting the island of Boracay "on the air" for a broader information dissemination for the stakeholders and for the community. Guests or panelists will be invited in the future programs to discuss important topics. The radio program is aired live over Radio Boracay 105.1 FM. and Channel 3 of PCTV every Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.

It was launched on July 18, 2009 at the Gazebo of Boracay Regency Beach Resort and Convention Center. Hon. Wilbec Gelito of SB Malay, DTI Usec Rey dela Rosa, Group Secretary for Task Force Boracay, BSTPO OIC Chief Inspector Eugene Rebadomia and the members of the Board of Trustees of Boracay Foundation, Inc. Jonathan Cabrera of Radio Boracay 106.1 FM anchors the two hour radio program. Environmental concerns, and peace and order situation of the island were discussed during the maiden broadcast.

OIC Chief of BSTPO Rebadomia hopes he can sustain the expectations of his higher officers in Region 6, and boosts up the morale of the policemen in Boracay. He looks forward to be Chief of Police for the tourists and not as "tourist na police" making reference to his predecessor’s length of stay which was less than two months as OIC of BSTPO.

On environmental concerns, updates of the projects of BFI in mitigating beach erosions such as the restorations of corals and reefs along the White Beach were given. BFI is working towards enhancing tourism by sustaining the bio-diversity of the island following the recom-mendations of marine scientists from University of the Philippines on their "Report of the Fact Finding Team on the Erosion of the Western Beaches of Boracay and other issues". According to Otik Macavinta, Vice president for internal affairs, project proponent needs community involvement to attain positive result. On beach erosion, BFI commended the swift action of Mayor Ciceron Cawaling who instructed the Office of the Municipal Planning and Development Coordinator; the Municipal Engineer; MAP and Lifeguard Supervisor, and the Environment and Sanitation Management to conduct actual inventory of establishments which have constructed per-manent seawalls on the front beach and give their reports and recommendations immediately.

The Group Secretary for the Eminent Persons Group, Task Force Boracay, Usec. Rey dela Rosa, look forward that LGU Malay and the stakeholders can work and unite together so that concerns of great importance can be brought to the attention of the national level with one strong voice for swift
action and results.

SB Wilbec Gelito commended BFI and Radio Boracay for this community project. He encouraged listeners to make use of the program by airing their concerns.

Boracay Regency Beach Resort provides the venue regularly and overflowing cups of coffee!!!

The officials of BFI are Loubelle Cann – president, Jose Macavinta – vice president internal, Patrick Tan–vice president external, Helen Atanacio – secretary, Connie Helgens – treasurer, Raffy Leyson –auditor, Edwin Raymundo – PRO, Henry Chusuey – chairman BOD, and Nenette Graff, Dionisio Salme, Lowell Talamisan, Erlinda Q.F. Wilson, Jupiter Gallenero, Fermin Dayao, and Mike Labatiao, Board of Directors members.

Their induction is tentatively scheduled on August 16 with Sen. Richard Gordon as guest of honor and speaker. /MP

No Title at Stake in Pacquiao’s ‘Catch Weight’ Fight Vs Cotto

by ALEX P. Vidal

SAN DIEGO, California – This time, no alphabet world champion-ship would be at stake.

The oddity didn’t stop there: Manny Pacquiao and Miguel Cotto will trade mitts in the "new" category – "catch weight."

The non-official weight, coined by astute promoters as compromise to pair highly rated fighters in borderline weights, would be two pound lesser than the regular welter-weight (147 pounds) and five pounds higher than Pacquiao’s official weight (140 pounds) when he demolished Ricky Hatton in two rounds on May 2 in Las Vegas for the obscure International Boxing Organization (IBO) light welterweight championship.

Pacquiao’s IBO and Cotto’s World Boxing Organization (WBO) welterweight crowns will be figuratively deposited in the locker rooms as they lock horns for 12 rounds in a card to be promoted by Top Rank on a pay-per-view on HBO.

But even if the Pacquiao-Cotto slugfest set on November 14 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada is non-title, the 30-year-old Pacquiao, who is part-time politician, said he would be putting on line his reputation as best boxer pound-of-pound.

Despite the non-championship setto, Pacquiao is expected to draw a big number of paying fans as he is still considered as top grosser in terms of tickets sold in his four previous performances alternately at the Mandalay Bay and MGM Grand.

POTENTIAL

"I agreed to fight Cotto in 145 pounds because I know he has the biggest potential to give me a good fight and to entertain boxing fans," Pacquiao revealed in a recent website column in vernacular.

The richest Filipino athlete also expressed concern about the decline in attendance in many sports events this year saying "fans appeared to be not anymore excited."

He attributed this to the economic meltdown in the United States and the injuries suffered by some boxers that caused the postponement of some major blockbuster fights notably the Floyd Mayweather versus Juan Manuel Marquez 12-round duel which was reset from July 18 to September 19, this year.

Pacquiao (49-3-2, 37 KO’s) said fans want him to fight Cotto (34-1, 27 KO’s) as both their styles are "exciting" and "surely not a boring one."

Pacquiao said he was sure he would not need to chase the 28-year-old Cotto around the ring as the Puerto Rican idol has promised not to retreat from start to end.

Team Pacquiao is banking on Cotto’s "lackluster" performance in his most recent outing on June 13 this year at the Madison Square Garden in New York where he scored a split decision win over Joshua Clottey to pocket the WBO diadem, his fourth major world championship since turning professional on Feb. 23, 2001 with a first round annihilation of Jason Doucet in Austin, Texas. /MP

LGU-Kalibo Launches Citizen’s Charter to Improve its Services

by TERENCE T. TORIANO

The Municipality of Kalibo presented what could be the first Citizen’s Charter formulated in the Province of Aklan this July 24, 2009 at the Social Hall of the Municipal Building. Like its forerunner, it will be the very first Service Guide Handbook in Region VI. The Civil Service Commission, Region VI has acknowledged it to be.

The Citizen’s Charter is a standard service guide handbook for elected and appointed officials, key officers, casual and job order employees in order to enhance its service and fast track its processing time for the best interest of the Kalibonhons.

Kalibo Mayor Raymar A. Rebaldo, in his remarks, pointed out that the Citizen’s Charter will serve as a model for other local government units to begin the formulation in their respective municipalities.

The presentation of the Citizen’s Charter was witnessed by the education and business sectors, civil society, barangay officials, Vice Mayor Nilda Tambong and some members of the media, and the heads of offices and LGU-Kalibo.

The presentation ended with a closing remark by SB member Mark Quimpo. He reminded all government workers that it is their responsibility to provide the right and prompt service to the Kalibonhons, and the clients to the best of their ability. /MP

EDITORIAL

Gov’t. Neglect for Education

Stunts Economic Growth

The government’s short-sighted approach to education remains the main stumbling block to the country’s long-term economic prospects. This is the opinion of Sen. Chiz Escudero.

"The world has been moving from an economy of goods to an economy of knowledge. Unfor-tunately, education, which is the main tool in converting to an economy of knowledge, continues to get scant attention from the government," Escudero believes.

"Our educational system is in dire need of an overhaul. The government’s attitude towards education has left wide, gaping loopholes that need to be immediately addressed," he stressed.

Escudero called for a "no-child-left-behind" policy for education, given the country’s embarrassing dropout rates of 6.7 percent for elementary and 8.9 percent for high school in the past five years.

"We must give our children the equal opportunity to develop their minds and bodies to the fullest. We will continue, even expand, the conditional cash transfers (CCT’s) to the poorest families so that their children will have the means to get to school," he suggested. Education should be a genuine tool of national policy especially in relation to economic development.

"The higher the knowledge and skills of our workforce, the higher their earning power will be. This redounds to improved economic activity. Whether our workforce decides to remain in the Philippines or go abroad, the economy will still benefit because of their remittances," he explained.
"We must bring together and match our graduates with the demands of industry and the market," the senator added.

Escudero also called for the implementation of an Information and Communication Tech-nology (ICT) Education Development Plan as a major step towards establishing a knowledge-based economy.

Moreover, "our neighboring countries have recognized the importance of ICT in education. They have adopted and are implementing national policies and strategies towards this end. We must step up efforts to institutionalize ICT as a national priority in education," said Escudero.

He lamented that fundamental issues such as classroom shortages continue to hound the country at a time when other countries have moved to the next level of education development.

"While we talk of knowledge-based economies and ICT as institutional educational platforms in other countries, the Philippines still has a backlog of 40,000 classrooms," he said.

"At a cost of P500,000 per classroom, it would cost only P20 billion to build everything. That’s only one year’s income of PAGCOR. I am incredulous how the future of millions of Filipino children has been irretrievably lost because of the insatiable greed of those in power," Escudero surmised.

In an article, "Electing Education President", Atty. Allen S. Quimpo, president NVC suggested to elect Education President of the Philippines in the coming May 2010 presidential election. He suggested to organize national movement to demand fundamental reforms in education and make Philippines the education nation. /MP

High Income In Bananas

Mr. Ricardo Palmares earns P240,000 per hectare a year from his lakatan banana farm in Passi City. This is gross income at farmgate price of P20 per kilogram. My 18 hectares now planted to bananas used to be planted with sugarcane.

"I tested three distances in planting bananas", revealed Palmares. He planted at a distance of 4 m. x 4m., 2.5 m. x 2.5 m. and 2 m. x 2 m." My distances are all productive provided exist suckers are removed every harvest," said Palmares who just harvested three hectares of lakatan bananas. It yielded him 36 metric tons and sold at P720,000 gross, farm gate price of P20 per kilogram.

However, my work in the farm is sincerely done, loaded with dedication and passion," he pointed out. He fertilizes 20 bags commercial fertilizer per hectare annually. He constructed drainage canals around his banana plantation and in between the rows of the plants. His plantation is also well protected with wind breaks, both natural and man made to minimize the effects of strong winds.

"My big problem is plant disease, Bunchy top of banana. This forces me to use more farm chemicals: Malathion," stressed Palmares. "Once symptoms of Bunchy top appear, the plants affected are removed immediately including roots and burn it to prevent its spread", he stressed.

Billboard

Almost at the middle side of the Kalibo bridge, right side if one comes from Kalibo stands a billboard. Printed on it is the picture of Ms. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo wearing an engineering construction helmet.

Over her head reads "A Project of Pres. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo". The project said, retrofitting of Kalibo bridge. I checked this billboard after a naughty young man asked if "it is true Ms. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo owns that project. If yes, is she financing the said project?"

I responded, I really do not know if she owns that project and if is spending for its retrofitting. Does she own it? Is our taxes being paid for its retrofitting? Moreover, I checked the meaning of "retrofitting" in the dictionary. As I found it, retrofitting means "change in design, construction in order to incorporate later improvements, to modify or to improve.

But what is change in Kalibo bridge? Do you notice any change? Yes, the banks are eroded that might erase barangays in Numancia and Kalibo.

Dogs

Travelling along the Altavas-Kalibo road, there are multitude of dogs on the middle. This is one of the causes of vehicular accidents. This dogs must be confined in the houses of its respective masters. /MP

Red Plate and Anti Corruption Orientation

A half day orientation on OPLAN RED PLATE and Anti Corruption was held on Wednesday afternoon, July 23, 2009. It was held in Kusina sa Kalibo, Aklan.

Sponsored by the Kapisanan ng mga Brod k aster ng Pilipinas, Amigo Badminton Club, and Aklan Press Club, Inc., some 54 participants who are members of the Aklan tri-media attended. There were two students from Aklan State University, Ibajay Campus and six from Northwestern Visayan Colleges Masscom who also attended.

Atty. Sonnette S. Daguita, aided with a power point discussed and presented Oplan Red Plate while Ms. Evangeline Nuñal presented the Anti Corruption topics. The two speakers belong to the Corruption Prevention Unit of the Ombudsman Visayas, Iloilo City.

The orientation started with an invocation led by Recto I. Vidal correspondent of Philippine Daily Inquirer. Ms. Sherry Ann E. Reunir, anchor person of Bombo Radyo Kalibo led the Pamansang Awit ng Pilipinas. KBP Chairman Aklan Chapter Augusto C. Tolentino welcomed the participants and guests.

Jun Aguirre of Hala Birada and Ralp R. Maypa of RMN DYKR delivered the reactions on the orientation representing the print and broadcast media respectively.

Edwin Ramos of PIA Kalibo, Aklan presided the open forum. The orientation ended with the thanksgiving remark of Dr. Ambrosio R. Villorente.

The orientation specifically dealt with proper uses and operation of government vehicles geared to reduce cost of operation and maintenance.
It also explained the creation of Ombudsman, its vision and mission and its roles on how the people in the community may help the Ombudsman realize its mission and vision. /MP

People’s Day at DA

text and photo by AMBROSIO R. VILLORENTE

People’s Day with the Department of Agriculture (DA) was held on Thursday, July 30 at Punta Villa Resort, Arevalo, Iloilo City.

DA 6 Regional Director Larry P. Nacionales welcomed the participants by presenting them with agricultural statistics of Western Visayas. He recited the performance of the DA and the farmers of Region VI.

Dr. Joyce S. Wendam of the DA Regional Policy Planning presented what she called "The Citizens Charter". This is a litany of services to the people consisting of technical services, research, quarantine, laboratory, seeds and other planting materials. Dr. Wendam recited the process how to avail of these services, requirements in avail-ment, and even the time allotted to service providers to serve.

Dr. Rogelio N. Concepcion, former director of the Bureau of Soils and Water Management discussed "climate change" which took him two hours including brief three times black out.

Concepcion presented the present situation brought about by climate change, offered few but important means to mitigate and even stop climate change. He predicted a very sad scenario if the present life style of the people is continued or climate change gets worst.

Dr. Venancio Mamaril of the Bureau of Plant Industry discussed the government program GMO through the National Biotechnology Program In Agriculture Standards on Organic Product. He discussed the GMO tests such as test for feed and food, test for production and consumption. He neither recommended acceptance nor rejection of GMO products.

Dr. Rodel Maghirang of UPLB introduced several terminologies on organic products which are brain twitting. Maghirang in his discussion on standards of Organic Products delved on the need of certification of organic products to assure standardized and quality products to both producers and consumers.

The People’s Day ended with discussion on good practices in banana production. Mr. Ricardo Palmares, a sugar cane transformed banana producers shared his ex-periences in the production of Lakatan bananas from his 18 hectares farm.

"There is much money in banana," declared Palmares. He said, his three hectares harvested yielded him 36,000 kilograms of bananas valued at P720.000 at P20.00 per kilogram farm gate price. /MP

Public Works in Aklan

On July 25, 2009, Kapehan Sa Aklan discussed "Public Works in Aklan." Engr. Roberto Cabigas, District Engineer–DPWH, Libacao Mayor Charito Navarosa, Engr. Roger M. Esto, PPDO, and Engr. Victory Fernandez – PEO served as the guest resource persons.

In their opening statements, both Atty. Ronquillo C. Tolentino and Dr. Ambrosio R. Villorente spoke of the significant achievements done by DPWH and PEO offices in hastening progress and economic activity to the countryside, particularly in Aklan. It should be underscored that one criteria of quality living standard established by the United Nations is case of mobility.

Mayor Navarosa had a power point presentation of his pet projects in Libacao namely: farm to market road (FMR) 8.0 kilometers from Loctuga passing Manika to Brgy. Oyang and Mega River Control project 1.5 kilometers that cost P40 million. The FMR serves as vital link to other infra projects like hydropower (5 units of 3 to 5 MW cap), potable water and irrigation. Power plants are planned to be established in barangays Oyang, Manika, and Ogsip by Sun West Company (SOWECO), a Chinese firm.

Navarosa said, "Mayor Jerry Treñas of Iloilo City and Local Water Utilities Administration have discussed their plan of sourcing out domestic water needs from Libacao. Current supply of 56,000 cubic meters per day is largely inadequate with the demand of 350,000."

Other viable projects lined up to provide employment are eco-tourism, vegetable, and cutflower production. Navarosa however, admit-ted foreign investments hinge on stable peace and order and all weather FMR’s.

Engr. Fernandez, an infra veteran since Governor Roberto Garcia administration said, "Aklan has 330 kilometers of provincial roads classified into paved (concrete) 40 percent and unpaved (dirt/gravel road) 60 percent.

Engr. Roger Esto, Provincial Planning Chief mentioned that the Daguitan – Madalag bridge was appropriated P10 million last year while another P10 million is approved this year. Indeed, funding is on piece-meal basis because of economic crunch. However, lobbying is done with Australian and British Embassies for grants in-aid projects.

District Engineer Roberto Cabigas said "Aklan has 166 kilometers concrete/macadamized highway. Only remote places as Buruanga–Libertad road (10 kilometers) and Altavas–Jamindan road (4 kilometers) are not paved." Turning to flood control, the original cost estimate of dredging and building concrete embankments on the 9.0 kilometer stretch, both sides of Kalibo and Numancia section of Aklan river is P1.6 billion." However, the released budget is only P100 million, Engr. Cabigas bewailed.

Issues and concerns are on need of local LGU’s to develop their individual initiatives to solve domestic problems, pointed out Atty. Allen S. Quimpo. "Libacao is an eye opener that with common sense and simple faith, mountains can be literally moved".

Getting less than one percent of what is urgently needed can be disheartening and frustrating. Whether this is a test of patience or resourcefulness is one thing but our leaders in Congress and Malacañang utterly failed to give due consideration to the enormity of the challenges poised by typhoon Frank.

The idea of a high speed ferry boat service between Kalibo (based at Aklan bridge) direct to Boracay may be plausible but on second thought impractical and dangerous during north-east moonson (Amihan) and inclement wether.

On hydropower, Atty. Allen S. Quimpo opened that Aklan may enter into contractual agreement with foreign investors under the Build Operate Transfer (BOT) scheme. Aside from Libacao, other potential sites are Timbaban (Madalag) and Ibajay rivers that could generate 60 MW of renewable energy.

Highway congestion is experienced for the past two weeks as two-thirds of flight schedules to Caticlan airport is diverted to Kalibo International Airport. This means additional passenger service vans and tourist buses using the Republic Nautical highway. Intimidating are 130 assorted vehicles per day disgorged from RORO vessels. Traffic safety demands that road shoulder of one meter on both sides of highway be cleared of all obstructions including palay/copra drying. Warning and informational signages must be posted before the Ibajay bridges and at Tulingon mountain range for falling stones, rocks, and boulders that occur even without heavy rainfall.

A weighbridge is suggested to ban overloaded freight/cargo trucks in view of premature deterioration on road and bridges’ structural foundation.

It is observed that even if trucks are not overloaded, our present highways easily crack, and develop potholes in just three years after completion. Is it due to shoddy workmanship? Apparently their service lifespan coincides with the tenure of office of elected officials. Is it possible to develop a road network that can last a person’s lifetime without any significant wear and tear?

Roxas Boulevard in Metro Manila was constructed during the early years of Amercian occupation. Yet, its 15 inch concrete infra remained solid and sounds without any repair after 70 years. The case holds true for Gabaldon type school buildings and Caticlan Airfield.

In Taytay, Palawan, there is a road building project managed by a Korean company. Ahead was road widening about 18 meters done by two bulldozers, one motorized road grader and one crawler truck backhoe. These are followed by dump trucks carrying gravel and other filling material. Deposited piles were spread by a road grader followed by a road roller.

Meanwhile, sturdy wire mesh reinforcement was laid by workers on one side of the lane hemmed in by moulding boards. Factory mixed concrete poured from two transit mixers. Box culverts (90 cm in diameter) were laid by a forklift at every 100 meters distance for drainage. Dilapidated wooden bridges give way to reinforced steel concrete structure.

Undoubtedly, highway construction must be built according to international standard. This has been done in Sarangani province where road is connected to Gen. Santos City International Airport. Boracay is an international tourist destination. At least Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines have started with Kalibo International Airport and on stream is G.P. Ramos International Airport. Not too far behind can be an international highway linking Kalibo and Caticlan passing Tigayon, Kalibo to Carugdog, Lezo and thence Calangcang, Makato. DPWH has completed the plan three years ago. It only needs fund to construct. /MP

Gun Owners Avail Firearms Amnesty In October

In a news release from Camp Pastor Martelino, Kalibo, Aklan, Aklan PPO Officer In-Charge PSSUPT Ruperto T Floro, Jr, announced gun owners can start availing Firearms Amnesty program of the government from October 1 to 31, 2009.

The Firearms Amnesty is pursuant to Executive Order No. 817 signed on July 7, 2009 entitled "Providing for the Government’s Intensified Campaign Against Loose Firearms" and PNP Letter of Instructions 26/09 (LOI 26/09) "Implementation of Firearms Amnesty", the government through the PNP will offer a National Firearms Amnesty. This includes firearms with expired or unrenewed licenses and unregistered or loose firearms.

Floro said that under E.O. No, 817, all loose firearms holders be they with expired licenses and/or unregistered firearms shall be encouraged and be given opportunity to obtain the required firearms licenses through the Final General Firearms Amnesty program of the national government.

Final General Fire-arms Amnesty will be implemented for a period of one month, from October 1 to 31, 2009. All individual and judicial entries may renew their expired licenses and/or register their unregistered firearms with the Philippine National Police.

All Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs) including the Armed Forces of the Philippines, National Bureau of Investigations, Bureau of Customs, Philippine Ports Authority, Philippine Drug Enforce-ment Agency are mandated to conduct continuing and intensified law enforcement actions, independently or jointly with the PNP to confiscate and seize all loose firearms.

In the Letter of Instruction 26/09, all PNP units and stations under the APPO shall "account firearms with expired or unrenewed licenses and unregistered loose fire-arms through persuasive approach such as infor-mation dissemination, distribution of notification letters and house-to-house visitations., PSSUPT Floro added.

Libacao Police Supports 4Ps Launching

1st Cash Grant Release

Libacao Police Station exerted extra efforts in the peaceful and orderly launching of Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) of the government, the first Cash Grant release in the municipality of Libacao.

Libacao is identified as one with the largest population of indigent beneficiaries among other municipalities in the province of Aklan but privileged to be chosen as beneficiary of the program catered by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) thru its National House-hold Targeting System conducted last month.

Libacao Chief of Police Inspector Renato J Jaime said, the police station provides VIP route security to Director Teresita S. Rosales, DSWD Regional Field Officer while other PNP personnel extended assistance during the registration and verification process.

The display of colla-boration and cooperation among members of the PNP, Libacao LGU, and other government agencies made the activity a success; all in the name of service to people. /MP

DepEd’s Feeding Program Nourishes Pupil’s Mind and Body

by Recto I. Vidal

Malunggay, fortified noodles being served free for breakfast in public schools are nutritious. Ms. Jean D. Arcenio-Nutrition Coordinator of DepEd Aklan, told the Kapehan Sa Aklan media forum that noodles fortified with malunggay and eggs can very much fill the nutritional needs of the elementary pupils.

The Kalibo Elementary School is among the beneficiaries of the Breakfast Feeding Program (BFP), one of the nutrition projects of the Department of Education where pupils in low-performing schools are recipients of the government’s feeding program.

The feeding program drawn up to fight hunger in the country which, in the latest survey, has risen to 19 percent last year, reason for the elementary school feeding program fund.

Arcenio said the feeding program has encouraged more youth to go to school and keep them from dropping out.

"The education of our youth will ensure a brighter future for them, thus nourishing the poor pupils’ minds and bodies," she said.

The free breakfast is served to Grade I pupils, as well as those from higher grades who are underweight. Arcenio said vegetables are also being mixed with the noodles to make the meals more nutritious.

In addition, free rice are also given to some public schools targeted by the Food For School Program (FSP) for the poor.

According to DepEd nutritionists, FSP is successful in addressing malnutrition problem. In a monitoring report, DepEd division office noted a 5 to 9 percent decrease in the number of undernourished pupils because of the feeding program.

The incidence of dropouts and the survival rate are directly affected by hunger and malnutrition, the nutritionist said.

The DepEd reports claimed noodles fortified with Malunggay resulted to the achievement rate of public grade school students rose from 58 percent in 2005 to almost 68 percent in 2008, malnutrition levels shrank from 22 percent to 17 percent, while school dropouts fell from 6.98 percent to 5.99 percent. /MP

Successful Aklan OTOP Congress

by TERENCE T. TORIANO

Aklan’s 1st One Town One Product (OTOP) Congress proved successful despite the transport strike that prevented some invited guests from other towns in Aklan to attend the event at the Gov. Corazon Cabagnot Memorial Tourism and Training Center, Buswang Old, Kalibo last week.

DTI Assistant Secretary Ma. Theresa Pelayo-Ty, the daughter of Candaba, Pampanga’s Mayor Jerry Pelayo, graced the occasion as Keynote Speaker. She cited "OTOP as a very effective tool in terms of job generation and entrepreneurship."

Kalibo’s loomwoven products is deemed as a regional model for the OTOP Program and it is continuously being show-cased at the Kalibo Ati-Atihan Product Showcase during the Ati-Atihan Festival every January. It has a recorded total industry workforce of 9,893 composed of farmers, scrapers, knotters, weavers/warpers, embroiderers, sewers / handpainters / craftmakers / twiners. These do not include manage-ment and marketing staff as of December 2008.

Since 2005 to the first half of 2009, DTI reported Aklan’s domestic sales of its OTOP products to nearly 200 million pesos, while its export sales reached $75,563.

Kalibo Mayor Raymar Rebaldo underscored the role of the loomweaving industry in Kalibo, being instrumental in easing down the problem of unemployment and the promotion of its culture through an OTOP that represent the very tradition of the Kalibonhons. /MP

New Aklan PPO Director To Work As One

The Aklan Police Provincial Office newly assumed Officer -In-charge Senior Superintendent Ruperto T. Floro, Jr. encouraged PNP personnel to continue working as one. He appealed to his men during the Regular Monday Flag Raising Ceremony held at Camp Pastor Martelino, New Buswang, Kalibo, Aklan.

"I’m still the concurrent Chief of the Regional Operations and Plans Division, PRO6 and my assignment here is based on the marching order given by our RD, PRO6, PCSUPT ISAGANI RIFE CUEVAS to take charge of the Aklan PPO in concurrent capacity meantime that the new Provincial Director is yet to be chosen. I encourage everyone to continue what you have started in your respective posts or desks." PSSUPT Floro said Floro, belongs to the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) "Makatao" Class of 1985. He assumed as Chief, ROPD 6 in March 2007 under the leadership of PCSUPT WILFREDO D DULAY, former RD, PRO6.

He finished his Masters in Public Administration at the Jose Rizal University in Pasig City. He was promoted to the rank of Police Senior Superintendent on January 30, 2009. He is in the active service for 25 years now.

Aklan PPO in particular, needs no radical change as it remains one of the best performing police offices in Western Visayas. One of the greatest concerns however, is the recent developments in the island resort of Boracay brought about by incidents of land dispute that really needs the meeting of minds of all the stake-holders there in order to preserve its booming tourism industry, Floro said.

The concurrent Chief of BSTPO Chief Inspector Eugene Rebadomia is warmly accepted by the Boracay community after a meeting with Boracay Foundation, PSSUPT Floro, said.

Rebadomia, is a product of PNP Academy "Sinaglaya" Class of 2002, a SWAT and ICITAP-trained PNP Officer. He hails from Bacolod City. He is the current Commanding Officer of the 6th RMG Combat Support Com-pany. He has served as COP of Sta Barbara MPS in Iloilo Province. /MP

Senate To Closely Monitor CHR Probe Alleged Abduction, Torture of Fil-Am Activist

Sen. Chiz Escudero this week said the Senate Committee on Justice and Human Rights will closely monitor the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) probe on the alleged abduction and torture of a Filipino-American activist and two companions by soldiers in May 2009.

"I offer whatever assistance my committee can offer to CHR chair Leila de Lima in their probe on the alleged abduction and torture of Melissa Roxas and her companions," Escudero assured.

Escudero, chair of the panel said, he will give way to the CHR probe and will not conduct a separate or parallel investigation into the case at this time.

"I do not intend to initiate an investigation but no senator is prevented from filing a resolution into this matter. I urge all parties to cooperate with the CHR so we can know the truth at the soonest possible time," he said.

Roxas, a US citizen and member of Bayan USA, had earlier claimed she and two others were abducted last May 19 while on a medical mission in La Paz, Tarlac and subsequently tortured by soldiers while in detention for six days. The military leadership has denied the charges.

The Fil-Am activist recently returned from the US to testify in the CHR investigation.

"International rights groups and foreign govern-ments have expressed serious concern over the country’s deplorable human rights situation. If proven true, Melissa Roxas’s case can only validate these observations," Escudero stressed.

At the same time, the senator said he will push for the approval of pending bills he authored on involuntary or enforced disappearance and torture when Congress resumes session this week. /MP

Gordon: Poll Automation Will Avert Cheating In 2010 Elections

Sen. Richard Gordon was the guest of the Aklan Media Forum on July 20. He is shown cutting the ribbon of its office at Arguelles Bldg., Rizal St., Kalibo, Aklan.

Independent Senator Richard J. Gordon is optimistic, automation of the country’s electoral system would avert cheating in elections and ensure honest, clean, speedy and credible nationwide polls.

In his speech delivered in Aliputos, Numancia, Aklan last week, Gordon, principal author of Republic Act (RA) 9369 or the amended Automated Elections System (AES) Law, said the law has enough measures to prevent hacking of the computer system that would be used to automate the May 2010 presidential elections.

"Some unscrupulous individuals may try to hack into the computer system that will be employed in the poll automation. However, the law has sufficient safeguards to ensure they will not succeed," he said.

"We are trying to put a stop to the wholesale cheating that has marred our elections in the past," he added.

Gordon dispelled skepticisms by some quarters that no machine could be fool-proof to cheating and manipulation.

To snuff out fears that the automation system would merely bring in "automated cheating," he said the law, which is technology-neutral, has mandated at least 16 "minimum system requirements" to ensure clean, honest and credible elections.

He pointed out that there would be no time for the "cheating scholars" to study the system and find a way to hack it since the law requires for a system that would consolidate report and display election results in the shortest time possible.

Gordon added that it would not be possible to access the system and change votes because the law also mandates for a voter verified paper audit trail.

"The law calls for an auditable system that would provide supporting documentation for verifying the correctness of reported election results, so there is no need to fear that the ‘cheating scholars’ would gain access and manipulate the data in the system," he said.

"The May 2010 automated elections will be a legacy to the country’s future generations since it would be the first ever national elections that would be fast and fraud-free," he added. /MP

NVC Alumni Activate Numancia Makato Chapters

Dr. Dobie Parohinog

Picture above shows (l to r) Arthuro T. Terencio-President, Ethel M. Torate-Secretary, Linda U. Tumbokon- Treasurer, Tely V. Tapican-PRO, Lillian T. Tumaca, Shirlina C. Matorre-Board of Directors, and Mrs.Elma M. Jera- Alumni Coordinator.

The NVC Alumni Chapter elected Dr. Dobie P. Parohinog President. He was elected on July 18, 2009 held in Numancia Integrated School, Numancia, Aklan.

Dr. Parohinog finished his Marter’s degree in Education in 1987. He is now the Principal of Bulwang Elementary School, Numancia.

After the election, Mrs. Elma M. Jera, Alumni Coordinator briefed them of the programs and activities in the coming NVC Alumni reunion on January 12 – 13, 2010.

Elected with Parohinog are: Ret. PO Razan P. Perlas-Vice President; Fidela N. Cipriano-Secretary; Louela V. Clavel-Treasurer; Marita U. Nicodemus-Asst. Sec. Treas.; Rodgie Ereneo-P.R.O.; Clariza Pamating, SPO3 Bernard Ufano, Anelyn Sajis, Amor Magdaluyo and Patrocenia Y. Mamburam are the Board of Directors.

Makato Chapter

In Makato, Mr. Arturo T. Terencio, BSED 1990 and a faculty of ASU Makato was chosen President of the NVC Alumni Foundation, Inc., Makato Chapter in an organizational meeting held on Saturday, July 18, 2009 at Makato Integrated School, Makato, Aklan.

Mrs. Elma M. Jera, Alumni Coordinator briefed the Alumni of the coming Reunion on January 12 -13, 2009 and the planned activities and programs.
The other elected officers of the NVC Alumni Makato Chapter: Anthony Castillo-Vice President; Ethel M. Torate-Secretary; Linda U. Tumbokon-Treasurer; Tely V. Tapican-P.R.O; Lillian T. Tumaca, Shirlina C. Matorre, Lilbeth Tiongson, Medgen Leyson, and Flor T. Magallanes are the Board of Directors.

In their acceptance message, Parohinog and Terencio appealed to all NVC Alumni of Numancia to participate and to reach out to other alumni. /MP