Evelyn M. Kimpo, Outstanding Teacher 2006

By Ambrosio R. Villorente

"My being the chief bread winner did not in any way affect my job as a teacher", said Ms. Evelyn Meren Kimpo. She is one of the three Outstanding Teachers of the Philippines, Elementary level in the 2006 Metrobank Foundation Search For Outstanding Teachers.
Ms. Kimpo did not waste any time after graduation from her BSEED course at Northwestern Visayan Colleges (NVC) in 1967. Her application for classroom teacher was given due course. She was assigned in Agmailig, Libacao, Aklan in 1967 where she taught until 1977. it took her 10 years to transfer from Agmailig to Torralba Elemenatry School, Banga.
Libacao is about 26 kilometers away from her resident at Tigayon, Kalibo. Moreover, Barangay Agmailig is about six kilometers away from Poblacion, Libacao by way of dirty, bumpy, and winding road. Torralba, Banga is just 12, kilometers away from her resident in Tigayon. Her transfer was a sort of a promotion in terms of distance to travel and working condition in Torralba.
After four years, Ms. Kimpo was again transferred to Banga Elementary School, Banga in 2001. Presently, she is a Master Teacher II and designated District English Coordinator, District of Banga, DepEd.
Ms. Kimpo is like any other regular students during her student’s days in Tigayon Elementary School where she finished Elementary and in NVC where she completed secondary and college courses.
Inspite of her very busy and heavy schedules both at home and in the school, Ms. Kimpo has found time to join some professional organizations. At present, she is the vice president of the Division Association of English Coordinators and Reading Scholars and Secretary of the National Organization of Professional Teachers, Banga Chapter.
She is the adviser of the Banga Elementary School paper, the "BES Flame". She is also the adviser of the English club. She serves as lecturer or facilitator in the school division trainings.
Ms. Kimpo is a habitual awardee. Before she got the "Outstanding Teacher Award" of the Metrobank Foundation, she was finalist in MBFI in 2003 and 2004. She was also awarded by the NSPC 2006. in the regional level. She received "Excellence Award in Campus Journalism (Elem).
Being an English Teacher, Ms. Kimpo is highly skillful in scriptwriting, poem and essay writing, letter printing and drawing.
She has three beautiful and loving children with her ever loving husband, Mr. Isidro Layson Kimpo. Their children, Kevin Mark, 26 and Fahttie May, 23 are now college graduates, while Kyle Mitchell, 17 is still studying.
Ms. Kimpo was so depressed after her husband got sick and was advised to just relax. She was able to manage well her family without affecting the quality of her work in school.
At 60 years old and with 39 years service for her country, Ms. Kimpo looks forward to be happy with her family. She feels really fulfilled. What can prolong her services to her people is her will to share her knowledge and skills particularly in communication arts.
As "Outstanding Teacher", Ms. Kimpo will receive P200,000.00 cash prize, medal and a trophy. Banga Elementary School where she teaches will receive a plaque of recognition to be awarded by the Metrobank Foundation, Inc.
Together with her principal, Ms. Lydia I. Fernandez, she will receive her prize on September 1,2006 in a fitting program to be held in the Metrobank Foundation, Inc. Headquarters in Makati City.
Congratulations and wish you and your family more lucks now and in the future. /MP mailto:madyaas_pen@yahoo.com

ASU Turns Out New Professionals

The School of Veterinary Medicine (SVM) of the Aklan State University (ASU), ranked fourth in the top performing schools in this year’s Veterinarian Licensure Examination given by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) on August 1-3, 2006.
Based on the PRC’s standard, the top performing schools should have 10 or more examinees with at least 50 percent passing percentage. Ten out of 20 ASU graduates of Doctor in Veterinary Medicine who took the licensure examination passed.

The new veterinarians are as follows:
1. Abella, Leah Navalles 6. Paderes, Benedict Suante
2. Calumpita, Rosela Cabarles 7. Petuco, Rogette Sumande
3. Catinan, Rommel Padernilla 8. Salido, Maybelle Selidio
4. Legayada, Marianne Leal 9. Tabuada, Darel Becodo
5. Loresco, Mary Joy Armiza 10. Villaranda Chuck Villanueva

Meanwhile, in the three-day Licensure Examination for Agriculturists given by the PRC last month, the ASU College of Agriculture, Forestry and Environmental Sciences (CAFES) produced ten (10) new Agriculturists. They are:

1. Caturan Rochelo C. 6. Lauren, Jeramie G.
2. Elijay, Julie D. 7. Navotas, Andrew Z.
3. Estanislao, Liezl A. 8. Rebustes, Wilenor A.
4. Ibao, Debralyn V. 9. Solidum, Romel A.
5. Inosantos, Jecel N. 10. Villanueva, Yul D.

Also, in the Licensure Examination for Foresters given by the PRC in June 2006, an ASU-CAFES graduate of BS Forestry passed the said examination. She is Forester Mary Lucille Cuzon Peralta. /ACRelingo & MSAcoritay, ASU-ECS /MP mailto:madyaas_pen@yahoo.com

Sugilanon Ni Tita Linda

Sincero Nga Pispis

Si Julian hay esaeang ka mangangahoy. Tongod sa anang kahugod, naga tinanum imaw it sari sari busa abo ro anang mga tanum nga prutas ag tinoean-on. Bugana rong bunga ko anang kakahuyan. Dahil kara, abo ro mga pispis nga naga dapo sa anang hardin ag kakahuyan.
Isaeang adlaw, samtang naghalin eon imaw sa anang katam-nan, may nakita imaw nga pispis sa daean nga naga eokso-eokso. Nabali-an gali it pakpak. Indi maka – eopad rong pispis. Anang guin daea sa andang baeay ro pispis ag guin boeong. Kada agahon, guina saburan nana it pagkaon. Sa owa magbuhay, nagmayad rong pispis. Kada agahon, naga hinuni it matsa mayad-ayad nga kanta. Bangod sa kanta, si Julian hay habubugtaw kada agahon. Imaw eot-a rong tagapukaw kay Julian paagi sa matam is nga huni.
Sa andang barangay, si Jasmin ro pinaka gwapang daeaga. Abo nga naga pangasawa. Ogaling owa guid imaw it naila-an. Bangud sa kaabo-abo ko mga naga paeangasawa kana, indi eon makapahuway ro daeaga sa pag atubang sa mga nagabisita kana.
Para mapapundo ag matun an ro sultero nga may minatuod nga paghigugma, guin taw-an nana it pagsubok ro tanan nga kabinataan nga naila kana. Nangayo imaw it rosas kanda nga puti nga may pagtak nga puea. Owa guid it naka daea it rayang klase it rosas kay Jasmin hasta it pilang dominggong nagtaliwan.
Isaea si Julian nga naila it duro sa daeaga. Masubo imaw bangud owa guid imaw it makitang rosas nga puti nga may pagtak nga puea. Guin libot nana ro bilog nga kagueangan kutob sa anang naabot, ogaling owa guid imaw it makita.
Habatyagan kong alagang pispis ro kasubo it anang amigo. Isaeang adlaw nag-eopad ro pispis sa ibang lugar agud mag usoy it rosas nga may pagtak nga puea. Owa guid imaw it nakita. Duro man nga puti nga rosas ro anang hakita, ogaling owa’t pagtak nga puea.
Sa owa it suko-suko, eompad ro pispis it paibabaw ag guin bunggo na ro anang dughan sa mataeawis nga bato. Nag-tueo rong dugo ag guinpato-eo na sa mga rosas nga puti. Nagpagtak it puea ro mga puting rosas. Dali-dali nana nga guin daea kay Julian rong bueak. Mabakas man nga guindaea ni Julian rong rosas sa daeaga. Hakibot it duro ro daeaga. Golpi nga nagbalik si Julian sa anda agod pasaeamatan rong pispis. Naabtan nana nga naga tingha rong pispis bangud sa ka-abo nga dugo nga na-atas kana. Guin eobong nana ratong pispis. Makataliwan rong pilang dominggo, may nagtubo nga tanum nga may tunok, may bueak nga puti ag pagtak nga puea.
Halin kato, guin paabo ni Julian ratong rosas agod indi nana malipatan rong sakripisyo it isaeang ka sincero nga pispis.
Owa masayori kon nag-asawa si Julian ag Jasmin. Rong kamatuoran, nagpabilin nga daeaga pa guihapon si Jasmin./MP mailto:madyaas_pen@yahoo.com

Alay Lakad Schedules Walk on September 8

"Sa Bawat Hakbang, Kabuhayan Para Sa Kabataan". This is the theme of this year’s Alay Lakad in Aklan. The walk will be held on the early morning of Friday, September 8, 2006.
This years’ chairman of the Alay Lakad Aklan is the Rotary Club of Kalibo headed by its president Gus Solmirano. The co-chair is the Rotary Club of Metro Kalibo headed by its President Rose Rustch.
During the last meeting held at the Girl’s Scouts Headquarters in Kalibo, the Alay Lakad, Aklan committee agreed on the following highlights of the walk:
1. The walk will be in three groups. One group will start in Tigayon Elementary School, one in Pook Airport Crossing and one in Camp Pastor Martelino, Buswang New. The assembly point is 4:30 dawn and the walk will start simultaneously at exactly 5:00 A.M. All the three groups will converge at the Goding Ramos Park, Capitol, Estancia, Kalibo for a short program. All the officials and employees of the national, provincial, municipal and barangay, civic clubs, non-government organizations, civil society, foundations and business firms are expected to participate in this annual event.
2. Biggest participating group of national, provincial, municipal offices, private organization, civic clubs and business/professional organizations, students groups will receive awards. Most Disciplined, Best in Uniform and Groups With Highest Donation will be awarded.
3. Raffle will be held which tickets modestly cost P5.00 each but the first prize will receive P5,000.00; second P3,000.00 and third P2,000.00. Several valuable consolation prizes will also be given.
Congressman Joeben T. Miraflores, Governor Carlito S. Marquez and Kalibo Mayor Raymar A. Rebaldo as a tradition, will lead this Alay Lakad 2006.
The various committees are now fast finalizing their respective jobs for the affair. /MP mailto:madyaas_pen@yahoo.com

CHED Sets Call Center Project At ASU

The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) chose the Aklan State University (ASU) as one of its recipients in building up call centers in selected state colleges and universities all over the Philippines.
CHED expects its project to be fully operational within a year. It will be a very profitable business proposition. They also believed that ASU is an ideal setup for a call center where they can regularly get fresh supply of graduates.
CHED sent its Technical Working Group (TWG) on the establishment of call centers in ASU last July 14, 2006. The team was composed of four personnel from CHED, namely; Engineers Fernandita Calimlim, Luisito Unicruz, Jose Escolo and Geraldine Y. Pocani. The construction of infrastructure facilities in ASU, which has at least twenty five (25) seating capacity, is now going on.
ASU, on the other hand, will train its faculty members for English Proficiency and Personality Development in partnership with the John F. Kennedy (JFK) Center Foundation. The trained faculty will then train prospective call center agents.
According to Dr. Roberto L. Saladar, ASU Information Communication and Technology (ICT) Director, the putting up of a call center in the university will provide opportunity and employment for the Akeanons in general. He added that this set up will not only benefit the people but the company as well, since call center agents usually stay with one company for at least four months and then move on to look for better job opportunities. The ASU’s plan to continuously train call center agents will amply supply the demand for the said job./ACRelingo & MSAcoritay, ASU-ECS /MP mailto:madyaas_pen@yahoo.com

Refrain Eating Barracuda: Advises BFAR

The public is advised to refrain from eating barracuda from Cuyo Pass in view of the growing information and concerns about reported ciguatera fish poisoning. This advice came from Director Malcolm L. Sarmiento, Jr. of the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR).
According to the BFAR findings in its ciguatoxin monitoring activities, the BARRACUDA (belonging to family Sphyraenedae) fished from Cuyo Pass and landed in Barangay Butuan, Anini-y, Antique was found to be positive for ciguatoxin. This fish is teruc in Aklanon.
Ciguatoxin is produced by benthic microscopic dinoflagellates most popularly known Gambierdiscus toxicus. Ciguatera toxins are colorless, odorless, tasteless, and are unaffected by heating or freezing. This toxin is highly concentrated in the internal organs of fishes such as the livers and roe. Toxins concentrate in the head and viscera is more than in the flesh of the fish.
Ciguatera fish poisoning may occur within hours of eating an affected fish. Symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhea, body and muscle aches, headaches, numbness and tingling sensation around the mouth, hands and feet, temperature-sensory reversal, acute sensitivity to temperature-extremes and muscular weakness./MP mailto:madyaas_pen@yahoo.com

DYMT Bags 3rd Place In RDC VI

The DYMT Community Radio, owned and operated by the Aklan State University (ASU) won 3rd place in the First Regional Development Council (RDC VI) Best Public Sector Project for the Year 2005-2006 under the State Universities and Colleges (SUC) Category with the theme; "Excellence in Governance".
The award consists of Ten Thousand Pesos (P10,000.00) cash prize and a Plaque of Recognition received by Dr. Benny A. Palma, ASU President and Dr. Anna Mae C. Relingo, Director for Extension and Community Services and Station Manager of DYMT in a formal ceremony held recently at Sarabia Manor Hotel, Iloilo City. Hon. Michael Defensor, Presidential Chief of Staff graced the award ceremony. This project was sponsored by the National Economic Development Authority - Regional Development Council (NEDA-RDC) and the German Technical Cooperation-Decentralization Program (GTZ-DP).
The criteria considered in the competition are; 1. effectiveness of the project (20%), 2. demand-driven participation (35%), 3. replicability/sustainability (20%), 4. process-orientation (15%) and 5. originality (10%). There were three hundred considered and short listed into 45. The judges narrowed the entries down to 25 projects finalists and then to 18 winners in the three categories.
The DYMT Community Radio Programs (1) Eskuylahan sa Kahanginan, (2) PatRole sa Panguma, (3) NFA sa Kahanginan (4) Ikaw ag Ro Philhealth, (5) Police Report (6) Farm Watch, (7) Live Sunday Mass, (8) Religious Programs and (9) Musical Programs catapulted the University into third place. The said project was created to address the inadequate knowledge on farming techniques and community awareness. The radio program provided venue for information dissemination of new farming technologies and community affairs that enhance income and community participation.
DYMT is a community radio station that carries the people’s voice, ideas, dreams and aspirations on FM airwaves, 100.9 MHz. It is based at ASU with its studio located at the Extension and Community Services (ECS) Office, and its transmitter atop the historic Mount Manduyog. This station was established through UNESCO, DANIDA and the Philippine Government through Tinig ng Aming Munting Bayan Upang Umunlad and mga Lalong Maliliit (TAMBULI). The Community Media Council (CMC) composed of representatives of the different sectors of the community draws up the policies governing the station, which is managed by the ASU-ECS Unit.
The radio station is on air from 6:00 am to 8:00 pm Monday to Friday and 6:00 am to 12:00 noon on Saturdays. DYMT received the Philippine Agricultural Journalists, Inc. (PAJ) Awards for its program "PatRole sa Panguma Farmers’ School on the Air" as the Agricultural Radio Program of the Year. The station’s Volunteer Broadcaster, Mrs. Gelly R. Maypa in her program "Farm Watch", received the Professional Media Award under the Broadcast Category (Year 2003), Best Non-Commercial Radio Station in the Country during the 11th KBP Golden Dove Awards (2001), First Place in the Professional Media Award under Broadcast Category in recognition of Dr. Porferio G. Bullo’s "From the Station Manager’s Desk" (2000), Best in Environmental Campaign in Radio Award (1997), UNESCO Rural Communication Award (January 26, 1996) and the Agricultural Radio Program of the Year by the PAJ in the same year.
In addition to this, the 3rd Place Award granted this year from the First RDC Best Public Sector Project adds prestige to the award-winning ASU community radio station. According to Dr. Relingo, the cash prize will be utilized to further enhance the existing facilities of DYMT. In her project presentation during the awarding ceremonies, she expressed her sincerest appreciation to the continuing support of the Community Media Council chaired by Dr. Mercedes Imperial, the volunteer broadcasters, the management staff, the ASU community, and most especially to the listeners and stakeholders of the station./M.S. Acoritay, ASU-ECS /MP mailto:madyaas_pen@yahoo.com

KALIBO NEWS

Greening of Philippine Highways
Covers Caticlan to Altavas

The Green Philippine Highway Project will be the 1st and the most massive civic action project that will involve the different national line agencies, LGU’s, schools and civil society organizations. This is set for August 25, 2006 as envisioned by DENR Secretary, Angelo Reyes, and spearheaded by the DENR. For the province of Aklan, it will start from Brgy. Caticlan, Malay to Brgy. Cabangila, Altavas with a human chain of green volunteers.
As Aklan is the pilot area for the whole of Panay Island, volunteers are expected to create the first human chain in history simultaneous with the national launching of the same project. The planting will be documented by video via helicopter surveying the whole province.
Kalibo, the capital town of Aklan, is the focal point where government officials, representatives, students and volunteers led by Kalibo Mayor Raymar A. Rebaldo, will participate a Thanksgiving Mass at 7:30 AM. After which, a simultaneous ringing of bells will follow from churches and schools, sirens from patrol cars, and whistles from DENR Coordinators, brgy. officials and tanods, and countdown of radio stations, Terence Toriano of the Kalibo Mayor’s office reported.

Rebaldo Gives Emergency Assistance
To Typhoon Victims

Some 16 families affected by Typhoons Quedan and Caloy living along the banks of Aklan River at C. Quimpo and C. Laserna areas just received financial assistance. Kalibo Mayor Raymar A. Rebaldo handed the cash ranging from P500.00 to P1,000.00 to each family held at his office on Monday, August 14, 2006.
These affected residents along the Aklan River approached both Barangay Poblacion and LGU-Kalibo officials for financial assistance as they lost their homes and livelihoods. The Municipal Social Welfare Development Office conducted a thorough evaluation in the affected areas.
Aside from the financial assistance from MSWDO’s Emergency Assistance, Mayor Rebaldo urged the recipients to register with the PhilHealth program to get better medical care for the members of their families.
Mayor Rebaldo also reminded them of the prohibition of building structures and residences near the banks of the Aklan River for their safety and security especially during typhoons or disasters, Terence Toriano of the Kalibo Mayor’s office reported. /MP madyaas_pen@yahoo.com

Editorial

The Effect of CRBA To The Rural Bank System

On August 8, 2006, Mr. Raul D. Balandra wrote a letter to the Madyaas Pen. Mr. Balandra is the president, Aklan Federation of Rural Banks and Confederation of Western Visayas Rural Banks. This is regionwide organization which aims, I surmise, is to develop and maintain the rural banks in Western Visayas as potent, progressive and effective instrument in economic development of the Philippines.
Mr. Balandra started his letter with "what happened to Cooperative Rural Bank of Aklan (CRBA) continues to grab our attention and has, in fact, became a major story of our broadcast and print media whose job raised the level of consciousness of the public on the case" Of course Madyaas Pen has never published any item concerning CRBA this year.
"The CRBA case also spawned other valid issues that nag the mind of our people such as how stable and trustworthy rural banks are as depository of "depositors" money. As a consequence, a member of our member banks have to contend with restless and jittery depositors who would, more often generalize and misjudge that all rural banks are in the same straits as CRB, thus face the specter of heavy withdrawal by depositors whose precipitate reaction is triggered more by the backlash of the CRB case than by normal need for cash," Balandra pointed out.
With this situation and scenario, it is normal for any bank depositor to worry of his deposit, observe what is happening to his depository bank. For any doubt, he is induced to withdraw whatever meager amount he has deposited in that bank. In Aklan, experience have taught lessons to bank depositors such as those of Libacao Rural Bank, ADB and Kalibo Rural Bank to mention some which collapsed. Kalibo Rural Bank was an institution in rural banking, history tells, but it collapsed too.
Mr. Balandra in behalf of the Aklan Federation of Rural Banks seeks the assistance of the members of the Aklan tri-media "that any complaint or information received from any individual or source regarding the "problem rural banks"…be first referred to the rural bank concerned or to Mr. Balandra in order to give bank management concerned to address the problem before the same is aired or published in the newspaper.
This request can easily be done, as it is being done now. However, information on any matter, especially if it concerns public interest can hardly be suppressed. What can a broadcast journalist or newspaper reporter do, if such management, rural bank for that matter, continued to do its way and defy public request? Lately, there is one "problem rural bank" in Aklan. Caution was given the management, why the bank cannot do instant withdrawal, but "just wait?" It did not even, give schedule of payment for the depositors’ money and for those who wished to withdraw. Members of the Aklan Tri-media neither brought this on air nor put it on print.
But depositors in Boracay Island resort themselves invited the media and informed them of their problem of withdrawing their money from that rural bank weeks after requests to withdraw money have been filed. Members of the Aklan Tri-media are responsible members of our community. They are aware of the consequences of negative publicity more especially of the rural banking system. Members of the press and all members of or society cannot over emphasize the importance of banking in our everyday life. Media is partner in progress and development. They are here and there to build and not to destroy.
The banks security officers, the information desk and bank tellers are the best information officers. They are the faces of a bank which reflects its culture. The manner of dressing, acting and talking with bank clients will develop, foster, and maintain trust and confidence of the clients toward the bank.
Trust and confidence cannot be earned and sustained by withholding any information from the clientele that concerns them. It is better to reveal the truth to sustain mutual understanding. It will be to the best interest of the bank should it released some information of particular importance to its depositors. Perhaps, the release of your bank statement is one of the information the depositors will like to read. The disclosure of asset and liabilities will further assure depositors the sturdiness of a bank.
It is heartening to note that you are considering the establishment of a "liquidity pool" to help bank in distress. This will further assure the bank depositors of the security of their money in the bank. That they deposited it at their own free will, so they may withdraw it in time of urgent needs.
On the part of Madyaas Pen, let it be conveyed that utmost care, diligence and understanding will be given in the treatment of information regarding bank operations. /MP mailto:madyaass_pen@yahoo.com

All and Sundry

By Odon S. Bandiola

A Proud Moment For All He Mentors *

* A Testimonial speech for the Honorable Vice Governor Ronquillo C. Tolentino during the testimonial dinner in his honor held at the Centerpoint Building, Arch. G. Reyes Street, Kalibo, Aklan in the evening, June 16, 2006 on the occasion of the Golden Anniversary Celebration of the Aklan Press Club.

It is a great pleasure and pride to be invited and allowed to speak a few pieces in tribute and in honor of the man whom I consider to have played a great role in shaping my person, family, and career in government service, and most importantly, a career in the field of journalism.
Ronquillo "Kel" Conanan Tolentino, is a lawyer, public servant, a civic and political leader, parliamentarian and an outstanding Aklanon in the field of community journalism, now our honorable Vice Governor after having served Aklan as municipal councilor of the capital town of Kalibo and as Provincial Board Member of Aklan.
Such is the stature of a man being bestowed a rare honor tonight by his colleagues in the Aklan media, many of them went under his tutelage like me.
Many may ask how and when this great honoree this evening touched my life and helped shaped my career?
Kel Tolentino’s guiding intellect started to shape my career when I was yet in my college days during the late sixties and the early seventies. He was my mentor in religion, political science and news writing. That was the time when our honoree tonight started to play as my role model and to many other college students who passed under his tutelage.
He exemplified the best in campus leadership which transformed us to become campus leaders ourselves. I particularly, had been the president of the Liberal Arts Department and the ROTC corps commander during my senior year in college.
When he was the adviser of the Aklan College campus publication, the Aklan Collegian, he tried his best to sway us into writing. I did not become a staff member of his Aklan Collegian but his efforts in nurturing us to be a journalist bore results later in my life when writing became one of my family’s source of income.
Our honoree was once the charter president of the Aklan government appointed and designated information officer in the Local Government Units and various national and provincial government offices. When this organization went reorganization, I succeeded to become president, a position vacated by the honoree. When he relinquished the presidency of the Aklan Press and Radio Club, he anointed me to be his successor which was confirmed by the members themselves in an election held for the purpose with me unopposed to be the next President of this prestigious club.
While in government service, it was there where the honoree has further honed my journalistic skills. I went on to write for regional and national newspapers, as correspondent of the Philippine News Agency and later to become one of the correspondents of the Philippine Daily Inquirer for Aklan and Boracay. His stinging and stirring columns also inspired me to try writing columns, editorial pieces and feature stories. All the time, it was the honoree who pushed and inspired me to follow his journalistic footsteps.
Recognizing that a full-time career in writing may not be compensating particularly for locally-based journalists, and when the position of the secretary to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan was vacated due to the death of the incumbent, I became the first choice of the honorable Vice Governor Ronquillo C. Tolentino to fill the vacancy and that position I now owe for the lifetime from one of our great honorees tonight.
As role model, I may have failed to emulate many of what has been achieved by Vice Governor Kel Tolentino. He is a lawyer, I am not but I am his secretary to the Sanggunian which he now presides. He is a parliamentarian, be it in the streets or in the session halls. I am half a parliamentarian, sometimes in the streets during our younger days, but never in the session hall. Our honoree is an outstanding journalist, am still a budding journalist. Kel sought public positions and won. I sought public positions four times in the past and all the time, I lost.
However, tonight, is not only a proud moment for our honoree, for his wife Ellen, and daughters. This is also a proud moment for everyone he has mentored like me. Congratulations sir.
Good evening. /MP

Pray For Peace *

* Speech of Atty. Ronquillo C. Tolentino, Vice Governor of Aklan and Chairman, Philippine National Red Cross, Aklan Chapter on the occasion of the International Humanitarian Law Day, August 8, 2006, PNRC Headquarters, Kalibo, Aklan).

By virtue of Executive Order (EO) 134 in 1999, August 12 had been declared International Humanitarian Law (IHL) Day. The date is designed to commemorate the signing of the 1949 Geneva Conventions.
The Philippine National Red Cross took a step forward and further by declaring the whole month of August as International Humanitarian Law (IHL) month.
This year, the adopted slogan of International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement is: "Per Himanitatem Pacerri" which means "From Humanity to Peace."
The Red Cross saw the need to intensify our humanitarian advocacy efforts to promote peace in our country. In intensified armed conflicts, we can always see the "unavoidable collateral damage" to civilians who will be caught in the crossfire.
In this worst-case scenario, there should at least be all-out respect for human rights (HR) and international humanitarian law (IHL), that is, the law on armed conflict (LOAC) which protects civilians and which limits the means and methods of warfare. Even war has limits – not only for the sake of non-combatants but also for the sake of combatants. It has been said that IHL helps pave the road to peace by promoting humanity in time of war (Inter Armas Caritas). By respecting the basic rights and dignity of all, the fighting forces help build mutual trust that enhances the chances for a peaceful settlement.
Let us always hope and pray for peace, not only for our time but for our children and the generations yet to come. /MP mailto:madyaas_pen@yahoo.com

Ro Sugilanon Ni Tita Linda

Tita Linda Belayro

Lawang Itom

Parabil mag-abot ro mga Kastila sa Pilipinas, guina patihan nga rong lawang itom rong lugar nga guinatapukan it mga tawong naga-kasaea, mga nag eapas it kasuguan, kapares it pagpanakaw, pagpatay it isig ka tawo, pag-abuso it mga kababayenhan, mga onga, pag-interes sa mga asawa it datu ag ko anang pamilya, o pagtakaw ko anang mga manggad ag manggad it iba.
Guinapatihan man nga bukon it tanan nga guina tapuk sa lawang itom hay nagkasaea. Guina-eo-ad it lawa rong mga inosente agod osoyon rong tunay nga nagkasaea.
Kon ano kadasig rong pag-eapas sa kasuguan, imaw man rosng kabakas it pagtinapok sa lawang itom. May guina baton ag may guina eo-ad.
Si Abener, isaeang ka mabuot, mahugod ag malimpyo it tagipusu-on nga eaeaki. Ogaling guina kahikawan imaw it ibang kabinataan. Nag dugang pa guid ro pagkahikaw kana tag imaw rong naila-an ni Aliena sa tanan nga nagapangasawa kana.
Sa pihak nga bahin, may isaea pang binata nga naila kay Aliena. Imaw ra hay si Rigor. Lipod sa daywang magkahagugma, nagabantay ag naga usoy it paagi si Rigor kon paano malamangan nana si Abener.
Isaeang adlaw, agahon pa samtang nagapaligos sa isaeang ka busay si Aliena, guintakaw ni Rigor ro mga ilislan ni Aliena ag guindaea idto sa baeay ni Abener. Pagkatapos ag tongod sa pagkaduea it ilislan, nagkagubot sa baeay it datu. Guin sugid ni Rigor nga idto ro mga eambong sa baeay ni Abener. Guin paadtonan it datu ro baeay ni Abener ag matuod, idto nakita ro eambong ni Aliena. Tongod sa natabo naakig it duro si Aliena. Kaeapastanganan ro guin obra ni Abener, sono kay Aliena.
Para mataw-an it hustisya, guinpatawag rong mga "mangin aeamon" agud consultahon sa natabo. Guinpatawag man si Abener. Guin pangutana imaw kon siin imaw ko mga oras nga nagapaligos rong daeaga. Guinsabat nana nga naga sabod imaw sa anang manok ag bebe sa anang kurae. Guinpatawag man si Rigor ag guin pangutana kon siin man imaw ko oras nga naduea ro ilislan ni Aliena. Guinsugid nana nga idto imaw sa anang katam-nan, naga ipu it prutas. Sa kamatu-oran idto sa anang baeay ro mga prutas. Sa pag usisa, abo ro mga alaga nga hayop ni Abener, pero owa it katamnan nga nagabunga sanday Rigor. Isaea pa, imaw hay isaea ka matamad nga binata. Ro mga prutas nga anang guinasugid hay guin bakae nana sa tindahan.
Katapusan nga paghusga hay ro pagpilak sa lawang itom agod masayran kon sin-o ro naga sugid it kamatuoran. Tongod sa kataeaw ni Rigor, naghinyo imaw nga indi igtapok, ag anang guin ako nga imaw rong nag bo-oe ko eambong it daeaga. Bangud sa anang kaila sa daeaga, nahimo nana nga magpinuril. Nag ako lang si Rigor it kamatuoran ag naton an man guihapon.
Nangayo it pasaylo si Aliena kay Abener. Napamatud-an nga owa it kasae-anan ro binata ag owa mabuhayi, guin pakasae sanda nga daywa. /MP mailto:madyaas_pen@yahoo.com

KALIBO NEWS

Photojournalism Seminar


The 1st Regional Photojournalism Seminar for Tourism was held in Iloilo Grand Hotel, Iloilo City on August 2 – 4, 2006. Some 20 tourism information officers from Western Visayas including that of LGU, Kalibo, Aklan attended it.
The seminar was sponsored by the Campus Press Photographers of the Philippines (CPPP), Inc. to promote year round tourism destinations in the region. Photojournalism, code of conduct and ethics for media practitioners were discussed. These included technical writing for news reports for print media.
Successful Reuters/AFP photojournalists, Leo Sulinap, Philippine Daily Inquirer correspondent, Diosa Leviste, and Panay News Editor, Hazel Villa served as lecturers. The participants underwent technical lectures using photojournalism as a tool to promote eco-tourism ventures through tasteful eye-capturing images. The CPPP Executive President, Harthwell Capistrano hosted the seminar.

Mayor Rebaldo And His Programs

Kalibo Mayor Raymar A. Rebaldo will be heard in his regular radio program every second and fourth Saturday of every month. Starting on Saturday, August 12, we can listen to him from 5:30 to 7:00 in the morning at CBIS Ati Atihan 98.5 Hot FM. His program, "Kabaeaka It Ka Tribu" is designed to provide information about programs and projects LGU – Kalibo is pursuing, according to Terence June Toriano.

Pulong Pulong Sa Kalibo

The Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) held a "Pulong Pulong" last week to promote understanding. The Pulong Pulong discussed intermarriages, migration, illegal recruitment, documentation, fraud and human trafficking commonly happening today.
It was held in the Conference Hall, Municipal Building, Kalibo, Aklan. The pulong pulong was held in Kalibo because this is one of the towns where OFW’s come from such as the seamen, nurses, physical therapists, domestic helpers and care givers. In view of these, it will be difficult for the Mayor like Mayor Raymar A. Rebaldo to provide the right information about the culture and traditions of other countries and peoples.
Some municipal and barangay officials of Kalibo and other interested persons attended the Pulong Pulong./MP mailto:madyaas_pen@yahoo.com

Entrepreneurial Farmer

Ambrosio R. Villorente

The Defraudation Upon Augustus Gonzales

Mr. Sylvano F. Sarabia was found guilty of eight (8) Estafa cases filed against him by Mr. Augustus Gonzales. Specifically, the eight are criminal cases No. 6320, No. 6321, No. 6322, No. 6323, No. 6324, No. 6326, No. 6327, and No. 6328.
The record of the cases revealed that the accused, assisted by his legal counsel, Atty. Florencio D. Gonzales, was arraigned on October 24, 2002 on the above stated cases. He pleaded "Not Guilty" of the crimes charged.
In the pre-trial held on February 20, 2003, the plaintiff, Mr. Augustus Gonzales and the accused, Mr. Sylvano F. Sarabia agreed on the following stipulations of facts which are: 1. accused is the owner of the checking account from the respective drawee – banks as appearing on the checks; 2. The signature of the accused appearing on the eight checks are genuine and valid; and 3. The existence of several demand letters made by the private complainant upon the accused to pay his just and lawful obligation.
The prosecution presented thru witnesses to prove the existence of the crime of Estafa. Juanito Custodio, manager of the PNB who testified about the services PNB provides to its clients. He brought with him the checking account number of Mr. Sylvano F. Sarabia. This checking account number reveals all the transactions the depositor made with the bank, Custodio testified. Mr. Ismael A. Baconoc testified, he is the bank manager of Allied Bank, Kalibo Branch; he knows Mr. Sylvano F. Sarabia who has a current account with his bank which is synonymous to checking account and therefore deposits can be withdrawn in the form of checks. Mr. Sarabia has also savings account with Allied Bank, Baconoc said. When Mr. Sarabia deposited money to the Allied Bank, it is credited to his savings account. However, when he issued check, the funds were transferred from his savings account to his checking account, according to Baconoc.
Mr. Augustus Gonzales testified that he is the private complainant of the eight criminal cases. He knew Mr. Sarabia since 1994. Being a businessman, he became close with Mr. Sarabia whom he knew as manager of the Aklan Development Bank. In the course of their friendship, Mr. Sarabia borrowed from him cash of P750,000.00 in several occasions. The borrowings were done from July to October 1997. Every time Mr. Sarabia borrowed money, he issued post dated check as loan guarantee.
However, time came that those checks bounced due to "closed account" when it were presented for encashment, hence the accusation. Mr. Gonzales, among others, presented eight checks which bounced as exhibits to the court.
In his defense, Mr. Sarabia argued that what he did, did not constitute Estafa. According to him, the act of postdating or issuing a check in payment of an obligation must be the efficient cause of the defraudation; that the offender must be able to obtain money or property from the offended party because of the issuance of check. It must be shown that the person to whom the check was delivered would not have parted with his money or property were it not for the issuance of check by the other party.
But the Court concluded that the prosecution has well established the essential requirements of Estafa under Article 315, par 2 (d) of Republic Act No. 4885, for which the accused is charged. The court record shows that checks were drawn in payment of an obligation contracted at the time the checks were issued; that there were no funds sufficient to cover payment for the check; and the payee sustained damages.
This eight criminal cases of Estafa is a stern warning to persons whose transactions will involve the use of bank checks. This use of bank checks has victimized not only hundreds but thousands of people. Several culprits have succeeded of their act of defraudation because of lack of interest of the victims, lack of resources to go to court, or by mere ignorance of the law.
A better course is: if in doubt, do not accept whatever bank check. These cases reduced the trust and confidence on a negotiable instrument like bank check./MP mailto:madyaas_pen@yahoo.com

Southwestern Aklan Launches ILHZ Pharmacy

By Frank T. Ituriaga

The Southwestern Aklan Inter-Local Health Zone I–B Pharmacy was launched in an appropriate ceremonies last August 9, 2006 in Numancia, Aklan. Said Inter-Local Health Zone is composed of the municipalities of Lezo, Madalag, Makato, Malinao and Numancia.
The launching event started with the blessing and ribbon-cutting ceremonies of the southwestern Aklan ILHZ I–B Pharmacy at the Municipal Health Center, with Dr. Lydia S. Depra – Ramos, Regional Director of the Center for Health Development – Western Visayas (CHDWV), and Gov. Carlito S. Marquez doing the honors.
In the program that followed the blessing and ribbon-cutting ceremonies, Mrs. Garcia B. Ureta, a DOH representative, led the opening prayer. This was followed by the singing of the National Anthem, led by Mrs. Filipina Mabasa, another DOH representative. Makato Mayor Ramon S. Legaspi, Jr., Chairman of the Southwestern Aklan ILHZ, then gave the welcome address. Miss Aubrey Tolentino, a student of Madyaas Institute, sang a song number for an intermission.
Governor Carlito S. Marquez gave a fitting message, and so did Dr. Lydia S. Depra-Ramos, the Regional Director of the Center for Health Development – Western Visayas (CHDWV), She came all the way from Iloilo City for the occasion.
Each of the town mayors of the five municipalities – Mayor Fred Arcenio of Lezo, Mayor Rex Gubatina of Madalag, Mayor Dominador Ilio, Jr. of Malinao, Mayor Ramon S. Legaspi, Jr. of Makato, and Mayor Ernesto I. Templonuevo of Numancia – gave words of commitment. Each pledged, in the name of their respective towns and townsfolk, their all-out cooperation to the success of ILHZ Pharmacy project.
Mr. Josue T. Maravilla, Secretary to the Mayor of Numancia, and of the Southwestern Aklan ILHZ, was master of ceremonies.
Among other things, in his speech, Gov. Marquez said, "the launching of the Southwestern Aklan ILHZ Pharmacy marks a major milestone in the Provincial Government’s efforts to ease our people’s problems in the availment of basic medicines. With the cooperation and support," he emphasized, "of the Center for Health Development – Western Visayas (CHDWV) headed by Regional Director Lydia S. Depra-Ramos."
"Medicines that will be bought from this ILHZ Pharmacy," the Governor stressed, "and in the Botika Sa Baryo that will be put up in the barangays of the five municipalities composing Southwestern Aklan Inter-Local Health Zone I–B, will be priced at about 50 percent lower than the prices for these medicines in the standard commercial drugstores."
Initially, the Governor revealed, the Southwestern Aklan ILHZ Pharmacy will be stocked with some P50,000 worth of various medicines. And he challenged the people in-charge of this project to make the undertaking viable. To make sure that the succeeding stocks of medicines will already be procured using the resources generated from the operations of this pharmacy project.
Dr. Lydia S. Depara-Ramos, Regional Director of CHDWV, who traveled all the way from Iloilo City (with some stocks of medicines) to attend this special occasion, said that there are four Inter-Local Health Zones in Aklan. And this Southwestern Aklan ILHZ I–B Pharmacy is the first one to be launched – not only in the province but in the whole region as well. She commended the Aklan Government under the leadership of Gov. Marquez, and the rest of the LGU executives in the province for having facilitated the realization of this laudable project which she said will go a long way towards complementing, and enhancing, the government’s program on health service delivery.
The ILHZ Pharmacy launching program was also attended by some officials and health workers of the five towns composing the Southwestern Aklan ILHZ I–B. Mayor Raymar A. Rebaldo of Kalibo was also present, as a special guest and observer.
With the ultimate establishment of the Botika Sa Baryo in these five towns, as provided for in the concept of the ILHZ project, both Dr. Ramos and Gov. Marquez expressed optimism that the need for cheaper medicines of the people of Aklan, especially the poor and marginal families, could be served better. /MP mailto:madyaas_pen@yahoo.com

PNRC Honors Blood Galloners

Vice Governor Ronquillo C. Tolentino was the guest speaker during the "Recognition Ceremony For Blood Galloners/Supporters and International Humanitarian Law" program. In his inspirational message, Tolentino challenged his audience to respect human rights. "In intensified armed conflicts, we can always see the unavoidable collateral damage", stressed Tolentino.
During the program which was held on August 8 at the Philippine National Red Cross Headquarters, Kalibo, Aklan, some seven (7) blood Galloners were honored for donating to the Red Cross gallons of their blood. They were awarded bronze medals and certificates. They are: 1. Grelino Pabelico – 14,250 cc of Estancia, 2. Larry Torres – 11,250 cc of Old Buswang, 3. Lydwin Cortes – 9,900 cc of Batan, 4. Lord Zandrix P. Pelayo – 5,400 cc of New Buswang, 5. Ambito A. Constantino – 4,500 cc of Roxas Ave. Ext., Kalibo, 6. Reynando C. Verangel – 4,500 cc of Bakhaw Sur, Kalibo, and 7. John Resbie T. Belinario – 4,500 cc of Linabuan Norte, Kalibo.
Mr. Ernesto F. Melgarejo, Secretary, PNRC, Aklan Chapter discussed the International Humanitarian Law. Dr. Elepoldo P. Magpusao, chairman Blood Services welcomed the guests and visitors, while Ms. Arcely P. Pelayo recognized the participants. The program ended with the closing statement of Dr. Ambrosio R. Villorente, vice chairman, PNRC, Aklan Chapter./MP mailto:madyaas_pen@yahoo.com

RAFC VI Requests Provido Resignation

As a reaction to Resolution No. 2, Series of 2006 of the Agricultural and Fishery Council (AFC), the Executive Committee of the Regional Agricultural and Fishery Council (RAFC) Region VI requested the resignation of its chairman Ricardo P. Provido, Jr.
The AFC Resolution No. 2, Series of 2006 is a "Resolution of the AFC Opposing the Re-Appointment of Domingo F. Panganiban as Secretary of Agriculture". This resolution was sponsored by Mr. Ricardo P. Provido, Jr.
According to the said resolution, "Panganiban’s style of management has resulted to divisiveness and disunity among the DA personnel thereby jeopardizing the implementation of DA’s priority programs and projects". Panganiban’s actuation and decision in handling the rationalization is contrary to the spirit and wisdom of…hurting the president." Panganiban has "neglected to attend/respond to the numerous issues and concern in agriculture and fisheries; his pronouncement in various fora the NAFC…as the most corrupt agency under DA, and his issuances of special order assigning his protégés with multi key position…centralizing power in his office has caused the DA to stagnate and aggravated the demoralization of the DA personnel."
Secretary Domingo F. Panganiban and President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo were furnished copies of the resolution. It was also published as paid advertisement in the Philippine Star issued on July 31, 2006. The said resolution was signed by all RAFC chairman from each region of the Philippines except Region IV A.
Since the members of the RAFC, Region VI were neither consulted before the approval of AFC Resolution No. 2, nor informed of its approval, they also approved Resolution No. 2006 – 01 declaring AFC Resolution No. 2" as not an official act of RAFC Region VI".
According to the RAFC Region VI Resolution, all the RAFC Region VI members were not consulted and they only knew of it after reading it in the Philippine Star on July 31, 2006. They reiterated their previous resolution endorsing Mr. Domingo F. Panganiban for appointment to the position of Secretary of Agriculture.
In another Resolution No. 2006 – 02, RAFC Region VI, requested "Mr. Ricardo P. Provido, Jr. to resign from the position of chairman, RAFC, Region VI’. According to the above stated resolution, "Mr. Provido’s action was a presumptuous and grieve misrepresentation of RAFC" and "made without prior consultation and approval of the officers and members of RAFC Region VI". In view of these, the officers and members of RAFC Region VI felt Mr. Provido has brought the Council to an embarrassing situation."
The two above stated resolutions were signed by all Provincial Agricultural and Fishery council chairmen and sectoral representatives from Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Guimaras, Iloilo, and Negros Occidental.
The two RAFC resolutions were furnished to Mr. Ricardo P. Provido, Jr., Sec. Domingo F. Panganiban and President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.
The AFC is organized in the national, regional, provincial and municipal levels as mandated by Executive Order No. 116 and the Agricultural and Fishery Modernization Act of 1997. This is organized to provide fora for consultation and continuing discussions within the agriculture and fishery sectors of the national economy. AFC acts as integration and coordinating body for agriculture and fisheries modernization. It also serves as advisory, monitoring and evaluating body. It links DA and its agencies with the LGUs, business sectors and civil society. It also helps ensure the success of the DA programs and projects.
Mr. Provido was first elected RAFC Region VI chairman in 2002, re-elected in 2004 and re-elected again during the June 27, 2006 RAFC elections held in the DA Regional Office, Iloilo City.
Last week, the AFC members including Sec. Domingo F. Panganiban attended an informal meeting with Sen. Ramon Magsaysay, Jr. to thresh out issues. There is no information regarding the reaction of Mr. Provido on RAFC Region VI resolution requesting him to resign as chairman of RAFC Region VI./MP mailto:madyaas_pen@yahoo.com

Court Finds Sarabia Guilty of 8 Estafa Cases

"The court finds the accused guilty beyond reasonable doubt of the Crime of Estafa Under Art. 315, paragraph 2 (d) of the Revised Penal Code as amended." This is the decision of Hon. Elmo F. Del Rosario, presiding judge of Branch 5, Regional Trial Court, Kalibo, Aklan on the eight (8) Estafa Cases filed against Mr. Sylvano F. Sarabia by Mr. Augustus Gonzales.
According to the decision, "there is no mitigating or aggravating circumstances and taking into account the provisions of the Indeterminate Sentence Law, accused Sylvano F. Sarabia is hereby sentenced as follows:
1. In Criminal Case No. 6320 to suffer an indeterminate penalty of four (4) years and two (2) months of prision correctional, as minimum, to fourteen (14) years of reclusion temporal, as maximum, and to indemnify the complainant in the amount of one hundred thousand pesos (Php100,000.000). With costs.
2. In Criminal Case No. 6321 to suffer an indeterminate penalty of four (4) years and two (2) months of prision correccional, as minimum, to fourteen (14) years of reclusion temporal, as maximum, and to indemnify the complainant in the amount of one hundred thousand pesos (Php100,000.00) With costs.
3. In Criminal Case No. 6322 to suffer an indeterminate penalty of four (4) years and two (2) months of prision correccional, as minimum, to fourteen (14) years of reclusion temporal, as maximum, and to indemnify the complainant in the amount of one hundred thousand pesos (Php100,000.00).
With costs.
4. In Criminal Case No. 6323 to suffer an indeterminate penalty of four (4) years and two (2) months of prision correccional, as minimum, to fourteen (14) years of reclusion temporal, as maximum, and to indemnify the complainant in the amount of one hundred thousand pesos (Php100,000.00). With costs.
5. In Criminal Case No. 6324 to suffer an indeterminate penalty of four (4) years and two (2) months of prision correccional, as minimum, to fourteen (14) years of reclusion temporal, as maximum and to indemnify the complainant in the amount of one hundred thousand pesos (Php100,000.00). With costs.
6. In Criminal Case No. 6326 to suffer an indeterminate penalty of four (4) years and two (2) months of prision correccional, as minimum, to fourteen (14) years of reclusion temporal, as maximum and to indemnify the complainant in the amount of one hundred thousand pesos (Php100,000.00). With costs.
7. In Criminal Case No. 6327 to suffer an indeterminate penalty of six (6) months and one (1) day prision correccional, as minimum, to four (4) years, two (2) months and one (1) day of prision correccional, as maximum and to indemnify the complainant in the amount of fifteen thousand pesos (Php15,000.00). With costs.
8. In Criminal Case No. 6328 to suffer an indeterminate penalty of six (6) months and one (1) day prision correccional, as minimum, to four (4) years, two (2) months and one (1) day of prison correccional, as maximum and to indemnify the complainant in the amount of fifteen thousand pesos (Php15,000.00). With costs.
Adding all the penalties in the eight estafa cases, Mr. Sarabia will suffer 22 years of "prision correccional" to 92 years of "reclusion temporal. He will also indemnify the complainant, Mr. Augustus Gonzales in the total amount of P630,000.00 plus costs.
According to the records in the Court, between July 1997 to October 1997,Mr. Sarabia in dire need of money borrowed from Mr. Gonzales P5,000, P1,000 and later P100,000 until it reached the total sum of P750,000. The term of the loan obligation is for one month, sometimes two months, three months and four months. The loans were secured by post-dated checks to be deposited to the bank on due dates and considered paid if it is good. Unfortunately, other checks Mr. Sarabia issued bounced which were the subjects of these eight criminal cases.
After due hearings, exchanges of memoranda and evidences considered, the Court concluded that the prosecution proved the deceit practiced by the accused on Augustus Gonzales is all too palpable".
According to the court, the accused scheme is obvious. He wanted to squeeze money from Augustus Gonzales by enticing the latter that his money could earn interest more than what the bank could offer or a guaranteed fixed amount of 5 percent per month. The modus operandi employed by the accused constitute deceit."
"In sum, the absurdity of accused argument is more apparent than real," the court pointed out. /MP mailto:madyaas_pen@yahoo.com

Editorial

CSC Orders Zaulda Reinstatement To Public Service

"The appeal is hereby partly granted… the decision dated January 14, 2005…finding PGI Rolly Zaulda guilty of Gross Neglect of Duty and imposing upon him the penalty of dismissal from the service is hereby MODIFIED such that Zaulda is hereby found guilty, instead of "Violation of Reasonable Office Rules and Regulations, Punishable with the Penalty of Reprimand". This is the decision of Civil Service Commission (CSC) on the case of Rolly Zaulda, prison Guard (PG) I at the Aklan Rehabilitation Center, Nalook, Kalibo, Aklan.
The CSC, in its Resolution No. 060703, ordered that Zaulda be reinstated immediately as PGI. The resolution was signed on April 20, 2006 by CSC Chairman Karina Constantino – David and Commissioner Cesar D. Buenaflor. It is attested by Judith D. Chicano, Director.
Zaulda was charged of Gross Neglect of Duty after he left a prisoner in a hospital several hours after his tour of duty elapsed. He was found guilty as charged by the investigating committee formed to investigate the said case as embodied in the report dated January 14, 2005. Aklan Provincial Governor Carlito S. Marquez believed in the report and therefore, implemented its recommendation. Hence, Rolly Zaulda, PGI was dismissed from the service".
According to Zaulda, his dismissal from the service is too great a penalty imposed considering the circumstances surrounding his case and there was no prisoner who escape during his tour of duty.
As gleaned from the records of the case, the following facts are revealed:
On July 4, 2004, an inmate named Gernie Natabio, a convicted prisoner detained in the ARC, complained of severe stomach pain. He was brought to the Dr. Rafael S. Tumbokon Memorial Hospital for treatment. PGI. Rolly Zaulda, who was then on a 24 hour–duty from 8:00 am until the following morning of July 5, 2004 accompanied Natabio. What transpired after Zaulda’s tour of duty was the subject of contention among the persons involved. The prisoner was left handcuffed for hours to the hospital bed, where he urinated and defecated, without anybody attending to or guarding him.
On July 6, 2004, a "Report of Incidence Re Hospitalization of Inmate Gernie M. Natabio at the Dr. Rafael S. Tumbokon Memorial Hospital, Kalibo, Aklan and the Abandonment of Him (sic) While in Confinement by the On-duty Prison Guards Assigned to Escort and Guard Him" was submitted by PGI Dizon T. Tropa, Investigation/Communication Officer of the Integrated Rehabilitation and Security Services Division, Nalook, Kalibo, Aklan, in a memorandum addressed to Police Chief Inspector Manuel I. Ilejay, Officer-in-Charge of the same Office. Ilejay, indorsed/submitted the said Report to Aklan Governor Carlito S. Marquez. He recommended that Provincial Guard Rolly Zaulda and Teodoro Centeno be meted "punishment not exceeding strong reprimand."
Apparently, Governor Marquez still had questions in his mind that the report did not answer. He formed an investigating committee composed of Atty. Maria Carillo Zaldivar, - chairman. The preliminary hearings found a prima facie case not only against PGI Rolly Zaulda, but also against PGI Teodoro Centeno III, PG III Ben Dianco and PGI Antonio Malbas. They were formally charged on September 8, 2004 – Dianco, Centeno and Malbas for Simple Neglect of Duty; and Zaulda, the appellant for Gross Neglect of Duty. In the same memorandum of even date, Zaulda was also preventively suspended for ninety (90) days.
Formal Investigation followed wherein appellant and the three (3) others who were charged, as well as witnesses, testified and were cross-examined, aided by their counsels. According to the testimony of PG I Rolly Zaulda, at 8:00 a.m. of July 5, 2004, he called the ARC five (5) times using the hospital telephone to inform them that no guard has yet come at that time to relieve him as his duty ends at that time. Allegedly, he made the first call and second call at around 8:00 to 8:20 a.m. He asked PG George Romero, who answered both times, to send him a reliever, to which Romero replied that the reliever had not yet arrived. On his third and fourth calls, PG III Dianco answered, with the same reply as Romero. On his fifth and last call at 10:15 a.m., Dianco again answered, saying that nobody will relieve him.
Before he left the hospital, Zaulda allegedly asked the prisoner if he had some personal necessities. Since the answer was negative, he then handcuffed the prisoner to his bed and left for the ARC at around 10:15 a.m. Zaulda stated that he had to do it because it was already way past his end of duty, he was tired and hungry. He further testified that he logged out at around 10:23 a.m. and went home. He came to know later that it was already past 1:30 pm when PG I Centeno – originally the one tasked to relieve him supposedly at 8:00 a.m., was able to stand as guard to the subject prisoner.
Appellant – respondent PG III Ben Dianco testified that he had been a prison guard at the ARC for 17 years. On July 5, 2004, he received calls from PGI Zaulda asking for relief; that he told him not to leave the hospital until relieved, anyway, PG Tulio, the team leader of the incoming guards had already sent a relief guard. At around 10:00 a.m., Zaulda arrived at the ARC and informed Dianco that he will be going home. Dianco further testified that he did not ask Zaulda anymore whether he was properly relieved, as he was busy preparing the papers of the prisoners. He stated that it is a standard procedure of the ARC that a guard should not leave a prisoner without formal turnover of the prisoner to the relieving guard…something, which Zaulda apparently did.
The Investigating Committee submitted to the governor its recommendations based on its findings that Zaulda committed Gross Neglect of Duty for leaving the prisoner unguarded, handcuffed to the bed where he was left to defecate and urinate; Malbas was guilty of Simple Neglect of Duty having been found to be lying in the hope of saving his co-respondent/s; Centeno deserving of only a reprimand for not informing the office in advance of his condition, and the appellant herein, PG III Ben Dianco was guilty of Simple Neglect of Duty, having been found to be negligent of his duties as Officer-in-Charge that fateful day.
In the same decision dated January 14, 2005, Zaulda was meted the supreme penalty of dismissal from the service.
Since Zaulda is alone in the instant appeal, the CSC cited with regard to and towards him. His Motion for Reconsideration of said Decision was denied by the Provincial Governor. Hence, he appealed to the CSC.
The CSC resolved the issues in this case whether there is substantial evidence to find appellant PG I Zaulda guilty of Gross Neglect of Duty, thus deserving to be meted the supreme penalty of dismissal from the service.
In the case at bar, it was established that Zaulda did his job within the 24 hours that he was on duty. When there was no reliever who came, he called the ARC five (5) times to ask for a reliever when his duty ended up, until after 8:00 a.m., and even more than two (2) hours after.
This matter of turnover of guards should have, in fact, been a self–operating system upon each guard’s end of duty. This is so because, obviously, there is a reason why the guard’s duty is fixed for only twenty-four hours. There are limits to human endurance and we have to consider that human focus and concentration can only last for so long. And it also should have been automatic for the superiors, or more specifically the head of incoming – duty guard, for that matter, to apprise him that the one tasked to relieve him (Centeno) was indisposed and to field any available guard to replace him even temporarily or until Centeno is able to officially relieve him, the CSC pointed out.
It was undisputed that it was even Zaulda who asked for a reliever five (5) times, way beyond the end of his duty. Moreover, it is also unrebutted that he did, before leaving the prisoner, handcuffed him so he will not be able to escape. This is the primordial concern and task of prisoner guards. Of course, he should have been more considerate and humane enough to wait for the reliever first so that somebody can attend to the prisoner’s basic necessities, considering his ailments, even granting he could not possibly escape, being handcuffed to his bed. But wasn’t said prisoner in a hospital that was supposed to have nurses or male attendants visiting him round the clock to aid him in his medical and bare necessities anyway he was safely handcuffed to his bed?, the CSC asked. We can only surmise and likewise be humane enough to consider that human frailty Zaulda’s primal instincts of survival, in the face of hunger and lack of sleep, overtook his senses, added to the fact that it was, indeed, the end of his duty. When he went back to the ARC to log out, Zaulda was even seen by the more senior PGIII Dianco, who could have asked about the circumstances of his relief from duty. There being no ruckus about it, he presumed that everything would be in order and that there was probably already a substitute or reliever for him. If at all, it is Zaulda’s superiors who should be in hot water more than he.
Ignorance of the law, or of the rules to be followed by prison guards is not an excuse. Zaulda should not have left his post without a reliever. However, there was no willful violation on his part nor sign that he did not care at all what happens because he handcuffed the prisoner; called up his office five (5) times to ask for a reliever; and even passed by the office to log out. His actions therefore indicate good faith, CSC concluded.
Of course, it is not to say Zaulda should be totally excused from liability. He must be held accountable for having left the prisoner without being formally relieved, a clear violation of rules and regulations supposed to be strictly followed by prison guards.
The Commission cannot find Zaulda guilty of Gross Neglect of Duty, as the elements of "wanton negligence and open disregard for one’s duties and functions" cannot be found to have been present in the instant case. Neither can he be found liable for the offense of Simple Neglect of Duty as he cannot even be said to be careless or "minimally neglectful" of his duties. Rather, there is substantial evidence to find him guilty, more appropriately, of Violation of Reasonable Office Rules and Regulations, the CSC concluded further.
Anent the contention of the appellant that the Office of the Governor committed grave abuse of discretion, it is noteworthy that the High Court, in the case of Cuison vs. Court of Appeals, 289 SCRA 159, ruled, as follows:
"Grave abuse of discretion implies such capricious and whimsical exercise of judgment as is equivalent to lack of jurisdiction, or, in other words, where the power is exercised in an arbitrary or despotic manner by reason of passion or personal hostility and it must be so patent and gross as to amount to an evasion of positive duty or to a virtual refusal to perform the duty enjoined or to act at all in contemplation of laws."
With the great lengths which the Governor’s Office took to ascertain the truth in this case, not to mention its strict adherence to the rules of procedure to ensure that the appellant was accorded due process, the Commission cannot find any mark of caprice nor whimsical exercise of judgment on its part. The investigation was as detailed as it can get, with all the trimmings of courtroom deportment. However, the Commission finds that there is certainly a need to modify the appealed Decision insofar as the offense which Zaulda was found guilty of; and necessarily, the penalty imposed. /MP mailto:madyaas_pen@yahoo.com

Entrepreneurial Farmer

By Ambrosio R. Villorente

Mayor Rebaldo and His SOMA

Mayor Raymar A. Rebaldo of Kalibo, opened his "State of the Municipality Address" (SOMA) with, "In the grand design of things particularly in Governance, we have achieved so much in just so little time with limited resources."
"The needs of Kalibonhons are clear and simple. Food on the table, jobs or livelihood projects and other programs that can benefit the most number if not all our people", Rebaldo stressed. According to Rebaldo, his municipal governance is concentrated on good governance, tourism and agriculture, education, peace and order, health and socio-cultural welfare, waste management and environment capability building and values formation, human resource development, physical and information infrastructure development.
On the whole, Rebaldo claimed his municipal administration has elevated the standard of public service delivery in the municipal offices of Kalibo. He cited his award received from the search for the Most Outstanding Public Officials and Employees given by the Civil Service Commission (CSC).
Kalibo was the first to formulate and to institutionalize an Agency Service Guide Handbook, which the CSC acknowledged.
His tedious historical research under the auspices of the Kalibo Council For Culture and the Arts, has concluded Kalibo to have existed for 434 years and used as basis in the enactment of Municipal Ordinance No.2005-049 to celebrate the Foundation Day of Kalibo on November 3.
Rebaldo cited his sound fiscal management that enabled LGU Kalibo to implement more programs and projects. Since 2004, LGU Kalibo collected more income than what were spent, he stressed. He pointed to the Municipal Treasury Office which received the most outstanding award in Region VI in 2003, 2004 and 2005.
Rebaldo was very happy to point out the establishment of the Community Broadcast Information System as a milestone, and the preparation, printing and distribution of a monthly newsletter "Hala Bira" for transparency and understanding.
In disaster preparedness, Rebaldo has revitalized the Municipal Disaster Coordinating Council. In economic enterprise development, Rebaldo pointed to a community – based project "Mangad It Kalibo" and the repackaging of the Ati Atihan to attract more local and foreign tourists to come and enjoy in Kalibo. He also talked of the Bakhawan Eco Park.
To ensure food security, Rebaldo cited his agricultural sector program, promotion of food trades, fishery development and livestock dispersal program.
In the field of peace and order, Rebaldo claimed to have fielded additional police vehicles to Kalibo PNP, trained barangay tanods to respond effectively to crimes. He cited the implementation of the municipal Traffic Code of Kalibo to have improved traffic circulation in his town.
To improve the health status of the Kalibonhons, Rebaldo pointed to the Rural Health Units which provide health services. The health program is complimented by his sports program like the palarong bayan, boxing and others.
Rebaldo was candid in the discussion of his Waste Management Program. He claimed 99 percent success in garbage collection, spending P2.6 million for the maintenance of controlled dumpsite.
In road building, Rebaldo stated: he spent P1,694,000 along D. Maagma Street asphalt overlay; P1.8 million for the construction of river control at Brgy. Bakhaw Sur. Out of IRA fund, P2.5 million will go for the asphalt overlay at Arch. G. A Reyes Street, P200,000 for Pastrana Park, P170,000 for Senior Citizen Bldg., and P200,000 for the construction of Food and Transport Terminal.
Projects lined up for 2006 are the construction of Honey Comb Type for Mortal Remains in the Municipal Cemetery; drainage, road concreting, Sea Bass Hatchery, and Tigayon Hill Tourism Lounge at a total cost of P2,431,485.64. The improvement of the municipal building is allocated with P1.5 M. The SB Kalibo office is 83.55 percent finished as of July 17, 2006. Asphalt overlay at Regalado Street is allocated P1.5 M., now ready for biddings.
Rebaldo was highly applauded as he announced the P100,000.00 allocation and release for each barangay of Kalibo. /MP mailto:madyaas_pen@yahoo.com

e- Agrikultura Center Opens In Buruanga

A program which aims to improve agricultural productivity through information communications technology (ICT) will be implemented in Buruanga, Aklan. The Tag-osip-El Progreso Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries’ Multipurpose Cooperative and the BENTCH (Barangays Balusbos, El Progreso, Nazareth, Tag-osip, Cabugan and Habana) Agrarian Reform Community of Buruanga, Aklan received the "Agricultural Growth through Information and Knowledge Networking" or e-AGRIKultura Project. Equipments included in the project are four (4) units of computer with accessories (monitor, modem, CPU, speaker, keyboard, CD writer, floppy disk drive, and licensed software). One unit of printer, scanner, web camera, digital camera, and a photocopier come with the package with extra supplies.
The project is jointly implemented by the Department of Agrarian Reform, the Philippine–Australia Technical Support for Agrarian Reform and Rural Development (PATSARRD) and the Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP). Buruanga is the first site launched on July 28, 2006 among the six Centers nationwide. It aims to establish a viable area-based enterprise in Buruanga that would raise the farmers’ household income. Its components include provision of technical capability building, development of dedicated website, connectivity for internet access, establishment of e-community center designed to facilitate farmers’ access to information on latest agricultural technologies, marketing opportunities and other information which could help them explore potential business development opportunities to enhance their enterprise and farming operations.
Atty. Daniel Y. Martelino, PARO II of DAR-Aklan underscores the urgency of this project as it equalizes the playing field among our marginal and upland farmers and fisherfolks from Buruanga which is situated at the northwestern tip of Aklan. It further strengthens inter-connectivity and exposes our far-flung communities into the state of Information and Communication technology of this era.
Invited guests for the launching included DAR Undersecretary for Support Services Gerundio C. Madueño, Assistant Vice President Arnel Abanto of the Development Academy of the Philippines, Director Susana Evangelista- Leones of the DAR-Bureau of Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries Development, from DAR Region 6 Director Alexis Arsenal, Congressman Florencio T. Miraflores, Governor Carlito S. Marquez of Aklan and the community stakeholders of Buruanga led by Hon. Concepcion P. Labindao, Municipal Mayor, and Felipe Panganiban, Jr,. Municipal Agrarian Reform Officer. /MP mailto:madyaas-pen@yahoo.com

Glamour Girls

Glamour Girls - Kalantiao Toastmasters Club ladies attend Toastmasters International Division D Officer’s Training at Grand Regal Hotel, Bacolod City. They are Pres. Mona Magayanes, VP-PR Cecile Dela Cruz, PDG Babes Justiniani, VP-Educ. Megs Lunn, VP-Membership Cynthia Dela Cruz and Sec. Judith Tindog. mailto:madyaas_pen@yahoo.com

French Envoy Lauds Firm’s Environmental and Safety Standards

By Alex P. Vidal

French Ambassador Gerard Chesnel has praised the TOTAL (Philippines) Corporation for its "commitment to environmental and safety standards as well as to excellent consumers service."
Speaking as guest in the opening of TOTAL’s first service station outside the island of Luzon in Tagbac, Jaro district, Iloilo City last July 26, Chesnel also lauded the company’s partnership with its local dealers which he said is "based on strength and mutual respect."
Chesnel’s remarks came after TOTAL (Philippines) Corporation Chairman Gary Jones, in a speech, vowed that as markets expand and become more competitive, the company "will be at the forefront of product quality and service excellence" as they continue to transfer their internal standards, "developed and refined within the highly competitive European environment to our business in the Philippines and the rest of the region."
CHALLENGES
"We are well aware of the difficulties experienced by the downstream oil industry in recent years," stressed Jones, who is also senior vice president of TOTAL Refining and Marketing Asia. "Despite these challenges, I am delighted to know that TOTAL has strengthened its position here in the Philippines and in the other markets where we are present."
Jones said the inauguration of their TOTAL Tagbac station "is a proof of our company’s continued commitment in the Philippine market. We have opened two more stations in the island of Panay—one in Cabatuan, another in San Jose, Antique—and a few others are in the pipeline."
He emphasized that they are now set to expand their network in other parts of the country, after having established two world-class fuels importation and distribution centers in Bataan and Manila and developed a retail network of over 80 service stations.
RESUMPTION OF NETWORK DEVELOPMENT
For her part, TOTAL (Philippines) Corporation President and Managing Director Anna Whitehouse said the culmination of their almost three years of work with Santos Petroleum Corporation "also signals the resumption of our network development program, coupled with innovative marketing initiatives."
Whitehouse said: "Our goal this year is to open 15 more stations nationwide and I am happy to note that we are well within our target to date. With 84 stations, I am confident that we will be able to inaugurate our 100th service station by the time we celebrate our 10th anniversary next year."
She said their expansion "is not so much a number game. Rather, it is a commitment to offer consumers a better alternative—a better choice in terms of quality products, safe and clean facilities, and efficient and friendly service."
OTHER GUESTS
Also present during the occasion were Department of Energy (DoE) Assistant Secretary Maganto Mapandi who stressed Republic Act 8479 or the downstream oil deregulation act, Iloilo City Mayor Jerry P. Treñas, Iloilo Governor Niel D. Tupas, Sr., city councilors, University of San Agustin President Dr. Manuel Vergara and Central Philippine University President Dr. Juanito Acanto, Carmen Santos and Jose Santos of Santos Petroleum, among other guests.
With over US$80 million worth of investments in the country, the French-owned TOTAL, the fourth largest oil firm in the world, is the only international oil company to become involved in all aspects of oil distribution since the industry deregulation, with fuels, lubricants, LPG, special fluids and other products including chemicals.
Established in August 1997, TOTAL (Philippines) has increased its market share to 4% for fuels, 4% for lubricants and 8% for LPG. /MP mailto:madyaas_pen@yahoo.com

PMMA Slates Its Annual Entrance Examination

The Philippine Merchant Marine Academy (PMMA) will hold the PMMA Annual Entrance Examination on November 25, 2006. The nearest testing center to Aklan is at the Iloilo National High School, Iloilo City.
PMMA is offering courses on Bachelor of Science in Marine Transportation and Bachelor of Science in Marine Engineering. It offers scholarships to deserving students highly subsidized by the government.
The PMMA Annual Entrance Examination is open to both male and female who are physically fit, natural born Filipino citizen, single, never been married and had no children out of wedlock, between 16 to 22 years old upon college admission in June, at least high school graduate or graduating from high school in April 2007 and qualified to enroll in a four-year degree course. At least 5’4" in height and 55 kg. in weight for male and 5’2" and 50 kg. for female, with an average academic performance. Applicants who have taken Trigonometry in high school and never been enrolled in the PMMA are preferable.
Those who have defective visual perception, physical deformities, perforated ear drum, chronic sinusitis, bleeding tendencies, hemorrhoids, hernia, varicocoele, extensive skin disorders, a history of heart disease, hypertension, asthma, active PTB, kidney and liver diseases, epileptic seizure disorders, major operations, communicable diseases, full dentures (upper and lower), cleft lip and palate, malocclusion, deformities of the face, tongue–tied, missing four anterior teeth (front), missing four posterior teeth (molar) tattoos and other brotherhood marks, goiter, history of pregnancy, presence of breast mass and painful menstruation do not need to apply for this entrance examination.
Interested applicants may submit the following: 4 copies of recent 2x2 colored pictures with nameplate (front view, white background), PhP300.00 examination fee in cash or postal money order payable to the PMMA Committee on Admissions, Certified True Copy of Birth Certificate issued by the Civil Registrar (Baptismal and Hospital birth Certificates are not honored), and pieces of long white mailing envelopes with PhP25.00 worth of stamps per envelope.
Application forms may be obtained at the desk of the Information Officer-Designate of Kalibo, Kalibo, Aklan. /MP mailto:madyaas_pen@yahoo.com

ASU Rehabilitates University Library

Senator Ramon Magsaysay, Jr. allocated the amount of one million five hundred thousand pesos (P1,500,000.00) from his Congressional Initiative Allocation under the Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF). The said fund was released by the Department of Budget and Management covered by Special Allotment Release Order (SARO) No. ROCS-04-03699 dated December 13, 2004, to the Aklan State University as financial assistance for the; (1) rehabilitation of library building (P1, 000,000.00), (2) internet library (P300, 000.00), and (3) completion of forestry building (P200, 000.00).
On March 26, 2004, the ASU also received financial support from former Congresswoman Gabrielle V. Calizo through her infra projects with SARO No. ROVI-2004-103. The amount of five hundred thousand pesos (P500, 000.00) was allotted for the partial construction of the ASU Library Audio Visual Room. On December 13, 2004, Honorable Florencio T. Miraflores, representative of the Lone District of Aklan, also allotted one million five hundred thousand pesos (P1, 500,000.00) for the rehabilitation of the ASU library. On June 26, 2006, Hon. Eulogio R. Magsaysay, Representative, Alliance of Volunteer Educators (AVE) Partylist also released under SARO No. A-06-03992, one million fifty thousand pesos (P1,050,000.00) for the rehabilitation of the ASU Library.
According to Engr. Loreto P. Indelible, Jr., Director for Campus Planning and Development of ASU, the funding support given by Sen. Ramon Magsaysay was used for the partial roofing of the library. The fund from Cong. Miraflores was utilized for the partial roof framing. He further added that another P1.5 to P2 Million is still needed for the completion of the roof framing. Some P3 to P4 million is required for the completion of the library roofing. Also, an additional P1.5 Million is necessary to complete the Audio Visual Room. According to Engr. Indelible, around twenty million is still needed for the completion of the University Library, Banga.
At present, the rehabilitation of the ASU Library is on-going funded by the University itself. Engr. Indelible stated that if there is enough fund to support its rehabilitation, he estimated that it can be completed within two years. At the moment, the University library is temporarily situated at the High School Building, Banga.
To recall, the building which housed the university library and the administrative offices was completely razed by fire on March 17, 2004. The damages and loses were estimated to be forty million pesos (P40, 000,000.00). The library, according to Dr. Palma, is the "brain, heart, and soul of the University. Without it, the students will be deprived of the opportunity to access quality education and to enjoy their constitutional rights.(ASU-ECS)/MP mailto:madyaas_pen@yahoo.com

All And Sundry

By Odon S. Bandiola

"Visionary"*

A Tribute delivered during the conferment of the Golden Press Award on Aklan Rep. Florencio T. Miraflores by the Aklan Press Club on July 29, 2006 at the Ten Commandments Bldg., Prov’l Capitol, Kalibo, Aklan.)

The incumbent officers and members of the Aklan Press Club led by President Edwin Pelayo could not have chosen a better way of commemorating the golden anniversary of this prestigious organization of media persons in Aklan than tender testimonials of honor in tribute to the great men and women of this province who have greatly contributed in shaping the destiny of Aklan and her people.
A number of them came from the ranks of media practitioners but, of course, the greater number of them are our political leaders in this province who are tasked in charting the state of our province into the path of progress and economic stability.
Several weeks back, the Aklan Press Club honored two of our elders in media profession, former Assemblyman Jose "Soning" Tumbokon and the Honorable Vice Governor Ronquillo "Kel" Conanan Tolentino. They were cited not only for their outstanding achievements in the field of community, national and international journalism but were extolled by their phenomenal rise to the field of political leadership and public governance.
Last night, the club also honored Kalibo Mayor Raymar A. Rebaldo, the youngest mayor the capital town of Kalibo ever had who was cited more particularly in wielding political will to ably steward public governance over the fast developing municipality of Kalibo.
Tonight, the Aklan Press Club takes pride on bestowing similar honor to the triumvirate now presiding over the affairs of a unified political leadership and public governance I the Province of Aklan, a state of political leadership which characterized the landscape of public administration in the province for more than a decade now, and fortunately so, unity, harmony, and cooperation among political leaders can do wonders for the fast-paced progress of a small province like our dear Aklan.
Today, honors are due to Congressman Florencio "Joeben" T. Miraflores, Governor Carlito "Lito" S. Marquez and again, to Vice Governor Ronquillo "Kel" C. Tolentino (all July born).
Am also deeply honored to be always chosen by our club to say some tribute to the club honorees. First, in recent weeks for the Honorable Vice Governor Kel, last night for Kalibo Mayor Raymar, and now for Congressman Joeben.
Modesty aside, if there is one among active media practitioners in this province who has written extensively and regularly in praise and criticism, in recent years, about then Governor Joeben, about his political career and public administration count me among one of them.
Those years when I was still actively writing for newspapers, for regional dailies like Panay News, for National Broadsheets like the Philippine Daily Inquirer, for news agencies like the Philippine News Agency, it can be surprising for readers to read my stories without then Governor Joeben and his administration as subject. Most likely, news reports, feature stories, columns bearing my by-line, a newspaper reader can read the name of then our Provincial Governor.
Throughout the stretch of his political career, he remains the darling of the Aklan media. In one of my columns, I attributed to him the moniker "Mr. Cool" because no amount of criticism hurled against him can get his ire and temper in public. He always remains calm and soft-spoken.
Indeed, our honoree tonight is himself a phenomenon in Aklan politics. Leaving his career as a national government agency executive to trudge the thorny path into political stardom, he was elected Mayor of Ibajay at age 38 in 1988 and Governor of Aklan at age 45 in 1995 and Congressman of the Lone District of Aklan at age of 54 in 2004.
I was indeed fortunate to be part of his political media bureau, when he was first elected Governor in 1995 and in 2004 when he was elected Congressman.
When he clinched the governorship of the province, he toppled a well-entrenched scion of a political clan. When he wrested the province’s lone representation in Congress, he displaced the incumbent.
To me, he is a visionary political leader of the province. Except for Cebu Province, when no local government unit dares to float bonds or a public indebtedness, then Gov. Miraflores did it, floated a P40 million Boracay, Aklan bonds to construct a jetty port and terminal. At first, it was scary for the province’s financial condition as the facility seem to be heading to come out as a "big white elephant". But true to his vision, the seaport is now the busiest among the stations of RORO nautical highway and as a jump-off point to Boracay Island resort. Now, under the administration of Governor Lito and Vice Governor Kel, the jetty port and terminal is raking in an average of P2 to P3 million a month for the province. The bonds are already fully redeemed.
In his full three terms as Governor, our honorees has provided the basic essential foundation and framework of Aklan’s provincial development. Name many physical, social and economic infrastructures surfacing in Aklan, most likely, it was former Governor now Congressman Joeben who either completed and jumpstarted them.
Being the first Aklan politician to serve the full-three term as Governor and the first to rise from Mayor, Governor, to Congressman, he was responsible in converting Aklan from being a 4th class province into second class. Now, under the administration of Governor Lito and Vice Governor Kel, the Aklan Provincial Government has attained a lofty credit rating from the Department of Finance, a rating that financial and banking institutions can entrust to the province a total loan of not less than P250 million.
The twin development priority thrusts of Aklan anchored on tourism and agricultural development started when then Governor Joeben first assumed the Governorship in 1995. Now tourism in Aklan is a P4 billion peso industry while agriculture remains the main generator of economic growth of the province.
Today, let us keep an eye to another development brainchild of our honoree, the P139 million peso tertiary Dr. Rafael S. Tumbokon Memorial Hospital.
As envisioned by Congressman Joeben and through the baton of Governor Lito and Vice Governor Kel, this upgraded hospital can become another milestone of the unified political leadership in Aklan. /MP mailto:madyaas_pen@yahoo.com

Sugilanon Ni Tita Linda

Ni Tita Linda Belayro

Kathy–Era–Rina

May tatlong ka magmaeanghod nga sanday Kathy, Era ag Rina. Si Kathy ag si Era hay paborito ko andang ina, samtang guina ubra nanda nga ulipon si Rina.
Isaeang adlaw, may isaeang ka magueang nga nagpakalimos. Gutom guid nga mayad rayang magueang. Nagpangayo imaw it pagkaon sa andang baeay ko tatlong ka magmanghud. Owa pagtaw-i ko daywang malditang Kathy ag Era. Pagkapan-o ko andang gin obra sa magueang, nanaog sa likod it baeay si Rina ag guin hukipan nana it pagkaon rong magueang. Pagkatapos it kaon, guin taw-an si Rina it isaeang ka kanding. Mangayo eamang ikaw Rina sa kanding kon ano ro imong gusto, hambae pa ko magueang ag dayong pumanaw.
Padayon rong pag ulipon kay Rina. Kon indi nana matapos rong guina sugo kana, owa imaw guinapakan-a. Pero owa guid nakabatyag it guina gutom si Rina. Lipod sa kaaeaman nanda, ro kanding ro nagatina-o it pagkaon kana. Ko ulihi, nasayran si Rina. Sa abong kahisa, guinpapatay ni Kathy ag Era ratong kanding. Nagtinangis si Rina. Nagpakita eon man kana ratong magueang. Guinpapangayo kana ko magueang rong mga kasudlan it kanding ag dayong ieobong sa likod it baeay. Ana nga guin sunod ro sugo it magueang.
Makataliwan rong limang adlaw, nakibot si Rina nga may nagtubo nga kahoy nga pilak ag bueawan nga may bunga sa likod ko andang baeay. Nadumduman nana rong kasudlan it kanding nga anang guin eobong.
Pagkakita ko andang Ina, guin sugo nana si Kathy nga magsaka sa kahoy ag mag eungi it sanga ag mag ipu it bunga.
Nagtuman si Kathy. Ogaling indi imaw maka eungi it sanga ag indi man nana madakpan ro mga prutas. Nanaog eon lang imaw. Binuslan man ni Era. Pero pareho man rong natabo.
Ko olihi, si Rina rong sumaka ag kadali guid lang nanang na ipu rong mga prutas ag na eungi rong sanga. Akig gid it duro ro anang Ina ag mga magueang. Maangan – angan may umabot nga kabalyero nga sakay sa kabayo. Nanaog imaw ag nangutana kon sin-o ro tag-ana ko royong kahoy. Gin-ako ko daywa. Busa, nangayo it prutas rong kabalyero. Nagsaka ro daywa agod mag ipu it prutas, pero kapares it dati – owa sanda nakabo-oe. May nag ligid nga prutas paadto sa kabalyero. Guin osoy kon siin naghalin. Nakita nana si Rina nga nagapanago. Anang guinpaguwa ag guin sugo nga mag ipu it prutas. Nagtuman rong daeaga. Maeomo guid lang ro anang pag-inipo.
Nangutana ro kabalyero kon ano ro anang gustong premyo. Nagsabat si Rina, "gusto ko nga maka halin riya sa among baeay." Ngani guindaea imaw sa kastilyo it kabalyero. Guinpabistihan si Rina ag nag-eotaw ro anang ka gwapa. Sa owa magbuhay guin kasae si Rina ag rong kabalyero.
Sa andang baeay, owa guid nahakat ro daywang si Kathy ag Era, total nabilin man kanda rong kahoy. Ogaling pagka-aga, Nakibot si Rina ay una eot a rong puno sa ubos ko bintana it kastilyo.
Sa owa magbuhay, isaeang adlaw, may daywang ka nagapakalimos nga nag adto sa kastilyo. Nakilaea nga sanday Kathy ag Era gali. Nag pobre eon sanda. Namatay man ro andang Ina. Tongod may mahumok nga tagipusu-on si Rina, anang guinbaton ro daywa. Naghinoe-soe ro daywa sa andang mga kasae-anan kay Rina. /MP mailto:madyaas_pen@yahoo.com

Public Speaking Contest Pagahiwatun

Ro Kalantiao Toastmasters Club hay maga hiwat it "public speaking contest". Raya hay paga hiwatun sa ika 31 it Agosto, 2006 sa Capt. Gil Mijares, Poblacion, Kalibo, Aklan.
Sono sa gin pahayag ni Dr. Ramona Magayanes, pangulo it Kalantiao Toastmasters Club, ro pa indis indis ngara sa pag hambae hay bukas sa mga estudyante sa high schools ag sa college.
Ro contest hay maga gamit it English. Ro pa indis indis para sa college level hay (prepared speech) pahaum nga discurso nga may kaangtanan (relevant) sa theme it pa indis indis nga "Honoring Heroes".
Ro sa high school mat-a hay impromptu. Ro andang topico hay idto ita-o sa kaadlawan it paindis indis.
Ro "speech contest" hay gina pati kasog sa pagbueoligan it Kalantiao Toastmasters Club, Local Government Unit of Kalibo paagi kay Mayor Raymar A. Rebaldo, ag Rotary Club of Kalibo sa pag pangueo ni Gus Solmirano.
Ro mga mapili-an nga unang tatlong mayad sa anang paghambae hay maga baton it P1,000 cash ag plaque – unang lugar (1st prize); P750 ag plaque – ikaywa (2nd prize); P500.00 ag plaque – ikatlo (3rd prize) para sa high school ag college. Paga premyohan man sanda it tig one year free subscription it Madyaas Pen nga para sa library ko andang eskwelahan. Tanan nga participants ag coach hay maga baton it "Certificate of Participation".
Ro San Lorenzo College hay maga ta-o it six months scholarship for caregivers sa first prize sa college level paagi kay Mrs. Cecile C. Dela Cruz.
Rayang pa indis indis hay gina hiwat it Kalantiao Toastmasters Club para mapa umwad ro mayad nga pagpaino ino, mayad nga pagpamati ag mayad nga paghambae. (Better thinking, better listening and better speaking). Gina hiwat man ra agud malikawan ro kahadlok (stage fright) ko sangka tawo sa pag atubang ag pag pahayag sa publiko ko anang bu-ot hambaeon.
Ro mga interesado mag entra sa rayang paindis indis hay makipag-ambit (contact) eang sa Editorial Office, Madyaas Pen, 168 Dr. Gonzales Street, Kalibo, Aklan. Tel. No. 268-6238. Mahimo man makipag hambae kay Dr. Ramona Magayanes, Dr. Cynthia Dela Cruz, Ms. Melrose S. Lunn o sa inyong kilaeang mag kaibahan sa Kalantiao Toastmasters Club. /MP mailto:madyaas_pen@yahoo.com

PABA TITLE FIGHT IN ILOILO EYED

Elorde Throws Support Behind GAB Iloilo Office

By Alex P. Vidal

The son of the late legendary former World Boxing Council (WBC) jr. lightweight champion Gabriel "Flash" Elorde" has vowed to support the programs and projects of the newly built Games and Amusement Board (GAB) extension office in Brgy. Magsaysay, La Paz Iloilo City. He also disclosed his plan to launch an international boxing card in Iloilo City in tandem with Winners Gym and Winner Promotions.
Accompanied by his wife and son Bai, Johnny Elorde, an international boxing promoter, graced the opening of the GAB office last July 25 together with GAB Chairman Eric Buhain and Commissioner Alex Paglumotan.
"My only wish is to support all the programs and projects of the GAB Iloilo office which is a big help to all Ilonggo professional sportsmen," Elorde said in a speech.
Elorde has informed both Buhain and Paglumotan of his intension to promote a Pan-Asian Boxing Association (PABA) championship in Iloilo City involving a Filipino boxer.
His group, Elorde Boxing and Winner Promotions, composed of consultant Marlon Lumacad, Jr., chief executive officer Erwin S. Chiongson, also awarded the GAB officials with plaques of recognition for bringing to Iloilo City the GAB office.
Part of the Elorde couple’s visit was to check the status of the Elorde Lifestyle Boxing Program at Skyline Winners Gym in Jaro. All local trainors of the program were given the thumbs up and go ahead signal by their son Bai, a member of the Philippine Boxing Team training in Baguio City. The Elorde Lifestyle Boxing program is one of the newest lines of fitness programs in Winners Gym. /MP mailto:madyaas_pen@yahoo.com

PLGMI Holds Seminar, Launches Newsletter

The Philippine League of Government and Private Midwives, Inc. (PLGPMI) Aklan chapter in cooperation with Public Health Office/UNFPA held its 1st Scientific Seminar and Launching of PLGPMI Aklan Newsletter last week. It was held at ACP Centerpoint, Kalibo, Aklan.
The highlights of the program were the message of Governor Carlito S. Marquez, the lecture of Ms. Florence T. Loredo on "Updates on Family Planning; Dr. Maria J. Magpusao on "Maternal Health/Maternal Death; and Frederick Zamora on Excellence/Personality Development for Midwives.
Ms. Celia R. De Lemos gave the opening remarks while Ms. Virginia L. Agapin closed the program.
Ms. Celia R. De Lemos is now the president of PLGPMI, Aklan chapter. She is presently the administrative officer IV, Provincial Governor’s Office, Kalibo, Aklan. She teaches English, Expository Writing, Psychology, Personality Development and Career Pathing in Northwestern Visayan Colleges. Kalibo.
As a registered midwife, she taught Obstetrics, Nutrition and Family Planning at Saint Gabriel College, her alma mater, in Kalibo, Aklan. While teaching at St. Gabriel College, De Lemos also organized the 1st Aklan Midwifery Week Celebration that was 1st attended by students, IMAP officers and members.
De Lemos, as a Rotary Scholar of the Rotary Club of Kalibo West and LGU Kalibo, graduated with honors. She was awarded as one of the Outstanding Young Leaders. She was also a student Sangguniang Bayan member of Kalibo and Student Municipal Secretary during her student days.
At this stage, as the PLGPMI president, De Lemos is now busy preparing for the holding of the 3rd Midwifery Week Celebration scheduled in October 2006.
De Lemos is the very first president of PLGPMI. Other officers elected during the February 16, 2006 election are Virginia L. Agapin – 1st Vice President; Joyce I. Repil – 2nd Vice President; May R. Nacar – secretary; Estelita E. Cipriano – treasurer; and Annavic M. Magdael, auditor. The Board of Directors is composed of Jennifer Corminal and Rhodora Refol (Altavas), Emily C. Restar (Banga), Marqueza R. Dionisio (Batan), Sofia F. Lubigan (Buruanga), Charito Goboy and Rodelyn Sevilla (Ibajay), Virgelita G. Ronase and Elisa C. Fernandez (Kalibo), Josephine C. Buencaflor (Lezo), Zipporah M. Mopia (Makato), Merly Ibardolaza (Malinao), Nelia s. Laserna (Nabas), and Gloria C. Magbiro (New Washington). /MP mailto:madyaas_pen@yahoo.com