EDITORIAL

Celebrating Aklan’s Rebirth

by ERNESTO T. SOLIDUM

Happy 56th Foundation Anniversary! Aklan Kapihan guests and attendees on April 14, 2012 echoed jubilation for the 56th Foundation Day celebration at the Smokehauz Resto & Bar. Guests are Atty. Ronquillo C. Tolentino, Dr. Reinalda Magdaluyo, Chairperson, Search Committee, Outstanding Aklanons for 2012, Ms. Deana G. Ruiz and Ms. Rosalind V. Regalado, all Sr. Trade Industry Dev. Specialists, DTI, and Mr. Francis Arnaiz, Office of Provincial Agriculturist.

Atty. Tolentino said that for 216 long years, Aklan was part of Capiz province and although enjoying mutual benefits from greater access to common resources, Aklan’s leaders from the start of the 20th century have opted for separation. Their struggle ended with the passage of RA 1414 approved by Pres. Ramon Magsaysay on April 25, 1956. Godofredo P. Ramos, the father of Aklan became the first Congressman who immediately introduced structural reforms in political, economic, and education systems. 

People’s joy and enthusiasm over the historic event did not dampen even with tragic fire that reduced Kalibo’s public market to ashes. Free at last, a spontaneous feeling of contentment and hope was on everybody’s lips. Through our joint efforts, prudence and prayers presently we have achieved one billion pesos yearly budget, tourism and agriculture on the upswing and many Aklanons excel in various academic fields. Our piña products are known far and wide in other countries, thanks to public and private promotion. Yes, we have deep rooted problems of poverty and unemployment but these are addressed through better governance and accountability, said the former Vice Governor. 

Dr. Magdaluyo announced the names of seven awardees for the prestigious Outstanding Aklanon award who are Dr. Russ Patrick P. Alcedo, Arts (Dance), Lucielo C. Ramirez, Public Service, Anita C. Gomez-Rescate, Business and Industry, Larry P. Nacionales, Agriculture, Engr. Merly M. Cruz, Government Service, Dr. Victorina S. Laroza, Education and Dr. Gaudencio P. Vega, Medicine. Members of the Search Committee based their decision on concrete accomplishments shown by consistent and exemplary performance in their chosen fields of endeavor impacting the lives not only the people of Aklan but at national and international levels. They will receive plaques of recognition in person during award ceremonies on April 25th at the ABL Sports Complex.

Ms. Regalado said that in this year’s Piña and Fiber Festival, our garment manufacturers will showcase new products and designs distinctively known for their quality, wearability, acceptance and affordability. This is the result of previous exhibition fora and endorsement by Patis Tesoro and other leading couturiers from Metro Manila who prefer light organic fabrics.

Not to be outdone are fashion accessories: cologne perfumes using abaca and piña decors, health stimulants like ginger tea blended with cinnamon and coco-based products. Also on display are varieties of wood, bamboo, and nitto products. Skills demo will be on wood carving and piña processing from cutting, scraping the leaves to warping and weaving the fibers.

The latest addition is on engineered bamboo, an imported technology that has strong dollar potential and employment opportunity especially in towns of Madalag, Makato, Libacao, Ibajay, Malinao, and Altavas. CARP beneficiaries in the above places are committed to undergo skills training relative to processing bamboo into floor tiles, window frames and school desks. Evidently, acquisition of twin rip saw machine will expedite the process. 

Ms. Ruiz said that DTI is not only advocating business development but also consumer welfare. Starting this year, piña products must pass stringent quality standards before acquiring stamp of approval of an official logo seal. A pending bill before Congress is on intellectual property rights based on Geographical Indicators. Piña cloth, gowns and barongs in Aklan are well known as indigenous cottage industry products. Yet, when brought to Lucban, Quezon it undergoes physical transformation. Add ons are ornate embroidery and stylish designs. Originality now lost, it is passed on and marketed as Lucban–made. Same is true with abaca products which sometimes find its way to Bicol. This trade practice is patently unfair and counterproductive, declared Ms. Ruiz.

Mr. Arnaiz said that the Agro Industrial fair will showcase agricultural crops, livestock and fisheries enhancing the concept, One Town, One Product (OTOP). The highlight of activities are: Opening of exhibits and display on April 23, Launching of 110 units artificial coral reefs in Mabilo, Kalibo – April 24, judging of floats and booths – April 25, launching of egg machine project in Tina, Makato – April 26, Farmers and fisherfolks day at CSQ Auditorium – April 27.

DA resource persons will provide update on agricultural commodities especially rice, corn, livestock, and fisheries. Six floats from Ibajay, Nabas, Lezo, Malinao, Kalibo and Banga will vie for top prizes. All 17 municipalities will have individual booths at Goding Ramos park. The public is cordially invited to come, enjoy and participate in this years’ info and educational activity. 

Versatility and economic uses of bamboo in the Philippines is not exploited unlike in China and Japan where Research & Development on the crop is far advanced. Engineered bamboo is destined to replace controversial coco lumber as construction building material for good. 

However, the cost of bamboo poles have soared from P50.00 to P100.00 each since typhoon Frank. The bulk of bamboo harvests in Aklan goes to construction of cottages and beach houses in Boracay. Obviously, agri entrepreneurs need to engage in commercial planting of bamboo in suitable areas, open grasslands and along rivers and streams. Overall impact will be greener countryside, minimal soil erosion and carbon footprints.

Definitely the industrial trade fair will stimulate growth of small and medium scale industries and attract local and foreign businessmen. Record sales of DTI show that consumer sales and under negotiation rose from P100,000 in year 2000 to P7.6 million in 2011.

To planners, organizers and participants of the 56th Aklan Foundation Day celebration, here’s our heartfelt congratulation to you and its rebirth. Mabuhay!  /MP