EDITORIAL

The Vision of the Today’s Youth

by Mark Anthony D. Leyson

The young people this year of Western Visayas and Romblon gathered as one family, disciples, and children of God. They celebrated the 6th Regional Youth Day 2009, held at Kabankalan Catholic College, Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental on April 21-24, 2009. They reflected on the theme "Through the Power of the Holy Spirit Who Lives In Us, Keep The Good Things That Have Been Entrusted To You."

Regional Youth Day is the gathering of the youth and youth ministers from the Archdioceses of Capiz and Jaro, Iloilo City and the Dioceses of Antique, Bacolod, Kabankalan, Kalibo, Romblon, and San Carlos City. Thousands of delegates from provinces of Western Visayas including Romblon attended the youth day.

This gathering is done every two years to enhance the spiritual life and growth of the young people in the diocese. The four days event was composed of much kinds of activities highlighted with prayers and masses officiated by the different bishops from the different archdioceses and dioceses of Western Visayas. A simultaneous skills and talents workshop were held like acting, singing, dancing, cooking, t-shirt printing, slogan and poster making, news writing, public speaking, bible study sharing, and many more. Animation or dancing of praises, fellowships, open forum, sharing of experiences as young disciples of God, and interaction among fellow young people from the different archdiocese and dioceses were done. The talks of the different speakers of different topics were most important.

Ombudsman Pelagio Apostol spoke on graft and corruption and the 2010 election with National PPCRV chairperson and former Ambassador of the Philippines to the Vatican, Hon. Henrietta de Villa. She said the theme will open the minds of the youth of today to be aware of what is happening in our society.

The Diocese of Kalibo sent 53 delegates. The Regional Youth Day was also the celebration of friendship, to experience oneness with all people, to make decision and personal commitments for the betterment of today’s society, to go forward despite discouragement, to see oneself as worthwhile, valuable and unique to see through conflicts, to comprehend reality and to grow in taw depth of individual cons-ciousness and to express life to our fellow youth.

Burning With Flame of the Spirit

The youth of today are potential agents to effect change in the society. Growing stronger in number, they comprise around 20 percent of the country’s total population. If misguided, they will be social problem due to lack of education, drug addiction, violence, unjust labor practice, un-employment, loosening morality and sense of sin, unhealthy relationship, migration, global warming, materialism, and consumerism.

Even with the multifaceted issues and concerns that hound us, the pressure to take on a more active role in the life of society is getting heavier. Our elders have given their share in making things better. The future is in the youth. But do they realize their potentials? Are they aware in the spirit and the power that lie in each one of them? Has it come to their senses that they have much to contribute in their community? nation?

Youth survey highlights their awareness of the various concerns around them. They know that something is happening. However, being knowledgeable of something is not enough. Knowledge must be accompanied with action back up by faith. It is sad, but true that more and more of the young people are being stricken with the infectious sickness called passivity, something that slowly creeps inside them before they know it. They lost the enthusiasm and wandered in distraction and dissipation. One good thing is that, it is never too late for them to make their move and claim the place they deserve in the world.

The regional gathering encouraged them to guard, nourish, develop and share the rich trust and gift that have been entrusted to them by the Holy Spirit who dwells among them. They head on to those who love and care them. They believe in themselves, and deepen their spiritual lives. They cannot just be the parish youth who prays, but who pray for charity and justice. They are at crucial point in the history of the Philippines.

With the national election next year and the pervasive graft and corruption in almost all strata of society, they cannot just sing praises and worship songs. They need to hone their God given abilities. They need to rekindle the flame God entrusted them. Let their light shine and burn where it is needed in homes, in parishes, in community, and in the nation!

With St. Paul, they can tell others thus: "Through the power of the Holy Spirit that lives in us, keep the good things that have been entrusted to you." (2 Timothy 1:14) this is what the Regional Youth Day 2009 in Kabankalan was all about: to welcome, celebrate and nourish the flame of the Holy Spirit in us; to burn with such flame and to bring it with us wherever we go, whatever we do, whoever we are with. /MP

Entrepreneurial Farmer

Ambrosio R. Villorente

Beauty Is Forever Joy

"A thing of beauty is a joy forever, and if eyes are made for seeing, then beauty is no excuse". But beauty is in the eyes of the beholder.

And beauty is the quality attributed to whatever pleases or satisfies the senses or mind, as by line, color, form, texture, proportion, rhythmic motion, tone and others. Is beauty standardized? Yes, but the standard is dependent upon one’s appreciation and its appreciation is a product of one’s culture and standard. What is pretty to a young man maybe ugly to another young man. Pretty lass to a French man is just ugly to a Japanese boy.

The last re-greening program of Aklan under Gov. Carlito S. Marquez just concluded revealed the culture and sense of appreciation of the evaluation team members.

Interrupted Power Interrupts Activities

On the evening of Monday, May 4, I was in Muguing, Banga. I attended the Coronation Program of their Queen Miss Muguing which was one of the highlights of their barangay and religious fiesta in honor of their patron saint, Santa Cruz. The pageantry march has just started and suddenly there was black out. The coronation pageant was interrupted. The people shouted: "Huh……!"

The reserve power generator took about 10 minutes to function. The coronation pageant proceeded after light was restored.

Hon. Selwyn Ibarreta was seated with me. He was the honored guest and coronation speaker. He represented Gov. Carlito Marquez. Hon. Ibarreta told me "the cause is unknown and power restoration is uncertain". After some minutes, Hon. Ibarreta showed the text of Engr. Ilito which stated: "the fault is in Dingle, Iloilo caused by a snake".

This morning, Friday, May 8, the interview with Miss Michelle Martha Braun, Aklan’s candidate to Miss Earth Philippines with Kaibahang Butz in his radio program "Ilitsahan" was instantly halted by the sudden blackout.
It seems that blackouts and other problems on electric power distribution is attributed to a cause or causes. Of course, anything that happens is caused by something. But Akelco management has never accepted any responsibility.

The sudden closure of its offices after lunch on March 24 which cost time, effort, and money to the people who went to its offices that time was never admitted by Akelco as its lapse.

Advanced notice for any change in working hours of all business firms is a basic management practice that must be done.

Akelco management has not admitted any fault to the owner consumer members of Akelco for wrongly paying NAPOCOR the P15 million. The maxim: "the customer is always right" is reversed as far as the present Akelco management is concerned.

I recalled an incident in the early 1990 when the management of the late Engr. Job Besana arbitrarily increased the kilowatt hour rate. I wrote about the arbitrary increase of rate, that he has not consulted the consumers about the rate increase of electricity sales being a monopoly. I wrote the article in Panay News.

When the late Gov. Corazon L. Cabagnot’s attention was called, she immediately invited Engr. Besana for a meeting about the arbitrary rate increase with the presence of some members of the Provincial Board. The meeting was held in the capitol building. After a brief discussion, right in the meeting, Engr. Besana stopped the collection of the increased rate and effected refund for those member consumers who have already paid.

Airport Congestion

Engr. Precy Malonesio, Manager of the Kalibo International Airport rationalized the presence of SPA, souvenir and coffee shops inside the departure area of the airport. According to Malonesio, he cannot do anything against it because the decision came from above.

Engr. Malonesio is the airport manager. He is the eyes, ears, mouth, and hand of Civil Aeronautic Administration of the Philippines. Malonesio could apprise his higher level superiors of the condition prevailing in Kalibo International Airport with his recommendation to decongest the departure area. Airport terminal was not constructed for lease but to serve airlines and its passengers. Engr. Malonesio knows this. It is only in Kalibo where part of a minute space for passengers is rented to SPA and shops.

For the meantime that the space is congested, rescind the lease contracts and make the space available to passengers. They can come back when there is enough space for them. /MP

ATI Graduates 6648 Palaycheck FFS

by JINAH T. OBORDO

Director Asterio P. Saliot of the Agricultural Training Institute delivering his message to the 1,117 Palaycheck FFS graduates of Capiz during the Mass Graduation Ceremony held on April 14 at the Capiz Gym, Roxas City.

The Agricultural Training Institute (ATI) graduated 6,648 farmers of Region 6 from the Season Long Palaycheck Farmers Field School (FFS) Dry Cropping Season on separate occasions. The Palaycheck FFSs were conducted simultaneously in 210 sites of the 82 municipalities in Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Iloilo, Negros Occidental, and Guimaras from December 2008 to April 2009.

The hands-on training demonstrated rice production using the palaycheck system in order to assure increase in the quantity and quality of rice being produced by the farmers. With the conduct of the FFS and consequent practice by the farmer graduates, Region 6 hopes to increase the average rice production per hectare and thereby improve its present 110 percent rice self sufficiency level.

Mass graduations in five provinces of the region were held as the culminating activity of the FFSs for the month of April. ATI Dir. Asterio P. Saliot confirmed the 1,117 farmer graduates of Capiz who came from 34 sites of 15 municipalities during the rites held on April 14, 2009 . Afterwards, ATI Asst. Director for Technical Operations Alberto Maningding confirmed the mass graduations in Iloilo on April 17 with 2,536 farmer graduates from 74 sites of 27 municipalities; Negros Occidental on April 21 with 1,064 farmer graduates from 32 sites of 14 municipalities; Antique on April 23 with 1,206 farmer graduates from 39 sites of 14 municipalities; and Aklan on April 24 with 725 farmer graduates from 22 sites of 8 municipalities. The culminating activity for Guimaras is on May 22 with 307 FFS participants from 9 sites of 4 municipalities expected to graduate.

The Palaycheck FFSs are conducted in collaboration with the provincial and municipal governments particularly the office of the provincial agriculturist, and municipal agriculture office,, Philippine Rice Research Institute, and the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Unit 6./MP

Aklan PPO Children Graduate Vacation Bible School

The Aklan Police Provincial Office is educating the children enrolled in Vacation Bible School (VBS) in Aklan Province in coordination with the Christ the King School through its Administrator Rev Cezar Indelible.
The VBS was conducted simultaneously by Aklan PPO and municipal police stations to children ages 5 to 13 years old every vacation. From April 20 - 24, 2008, a total of 65 children successfully graduated at Aklan PPO Multi-Purpose Building while 15 in Brgy. New Buswang, Kalibo last May 2. There is an on-going 26 children participating at Camp Pastor Martelino.
Aklan Provincial Director Police Senior Superintendent Clarence Guinto said, the Vacation Bible School is established to let the children know that police officers are their friends and someone they could trust and asked for help in times of trouble and needs. They are people who are their friends to them.
50 PNP Personnel Attend Gender Sensitivity Training

The Aklan Police Provincial Office held a two day Gender Sensitivity Training. Some 50 PNP personnel from different police stations in Aklan province attended the said training held at Aklan Police Provincial Office, Multi-Purpose Hall, New Buswang, Kalibo, Aklan. The training aims to further enhance knowledge of PNP personnel on police work in the community. It also aims to increase the level of awareness of Police officers to be active in performing their duties and functions, and to know the equal opportunity of men and women in the society. Consequently, PNP personnel will value the significance of sexual characteristics meant for every individual.
According to Aklan police director Police Senior Superintendent Clarence V Guinto, this undertaking will invite the people to support our advocacy and will help us realize our vision to a more capable, credible and effective as the pilot site of Model Police Provincial Office.
Resource speakers are Engr. Carmelo F Orbista, LGOO V, Chief, Technical Services Section, DILG, Kalibo, Aklan and Mrs Maricel M Bechayda, MLGOO-Balete, Aklan.

Aklan PNP Supports Free
Cataract/Pterygium Operation

Aklan Police Pro-vincial Director Senior Superintendent Clarence Guinto fully supports the on going Free Cataract Screening which started last April 22, 2009 at Makato, Madalag and Malinao Rural Health Units.

The free Cataract/ Pterygium screening and operation was made possible in cooperation with Aklan Police Provincial Office, Public Safety Mutual Benefit Fund (PSMBFI), Makato, Madalag and Malinao Rural Health Units, Southwestern Inter-local Health Zone, National Youth Alliance of the Philippines (NYAP) represented by Fr. Felomino Mateo S. Cuare, Jr,. Regional Health Service 6 represented by SPO1 Ma Adorie Lachica, Dr. Donald Dionio, Eye Specialist and Cataract Foundation of the Philippines, Inc.

The last screening was held on May 6, 2009 at Makato Rural Health Unit headed by Dr. Carlo Ben Losande in preparation for the Cataract & Pterygium Operation scheduled on May 6-8 2009 at Saint Gabriel Hospital Kalibo, Aklan and Makato Rural Health Unit, Makato, Aklan respectively. The rest of the team came from Iloilo headed by Dr Karen Francia, President of PAO, Region 6.

There is a total of 68 patients qualified for free surgical operations at Saint Gabriel Hospital while 38 patients for Pterygium at Makato Rural Health Unit who will be accom-modated out 264 possible beneficiaries screened. Of whom, one (1) PNP member qualified for pterygium surgery. The others were advised to seek an ophthalmologist for other cases of eye problems.

The Aklan PPO director is encouraging other Chiefs of Police to find other beneficiaries to be part of this activity since this is an opportunity especially for those less fortunate Aklanons. (by PO2 Nida L. Gregas)

Vice Guv, SP Support Aklan Media

If there are govern-ment institutions which had shown full support to the programs and activities of the local media in Aklan, it is the Office of the Vice Governor and the Sang-guniang Panlalawigan (SP) of the Province of Aklan.

As soon as she assumed office as Vice Governor and Presiding Officer of the SP, Calizo, recognizing the indispensable role of the Aklan media to the task of provincial development, urged various media organizations in the province to unite and work together for the establishment of a media welfare fund to take care of the needs of local media practitioners in times of emergencies and distress.

Calizo offered her personal services to help source out funds through fund raising activities to institutionalize said media welfare fund. She is aware of the meager income earned by many media persons from their profession.

Since the SP, through its programs, projects, and activities, is the most active beat being covered by local media, media people assigned in covering sessions, committee hearings, and related activities of the institution decided to organize themselves into the Aklan Sangguniang Pan-lalawigan Press Corps for close coordination and cooperation. This is headed by Mr. Arnel Arrieta of Boracay Radyo.

To help provide respite from their tight and hectic schedules, the practicing local media people organized the Vice Governor Gabrielle V. Calizo Aklan Media Bowling Cup, now on its second year. This year’s edition of the bowling tournament was just concluded. The competition was timed on the 53rd Anniversary celebration of Aklan Province. The tournament was facilitated through the Aklan Media Forum, the Publishers Association of the Philippines, Inc., Aklan Chapter, the Aklan Press Club, Inc., the Aklan Police and Defense Press Corps, Aklan Sang-guniang Panlalawigan Press Corps and the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster sa Pilipinas, Aklan Chapter.
Boy Ryan Zabal of the Manila Bulletin served as the tournament director of the Vice Governor Gabrielle V. Calizo Aklan Media Bowling Cup.

Every Christmas season, Vice Governor and the Sangguniang Panlala-wigan used to fete local media practitioners to the annual Christmas Party where the SP staff, the honorable SP members and all local media practitioners and their families join in the celebration. /MP

Reason and Concern

By Ronquillo C. Tolentino

Laughter

Thomas Carlyle, the English essayist and philosopher, said that a man who can not laugh is not only fit for treasons, stratagems and spoils; but his whole life is already a treason and stratagem. John Paul Richter, the German humorist said that laughing and cheerfulness throw the light of day on all paths of life. Martin Luther, in a joking manner, declared that if one is not allowed to laugh in heaven, he just would not go there.

A good laugh is sunshine in a house, William Makepeace Thackeray said. Laurence J. Peter rightly observed that two things reduce prejudice - education and laughter. George Gordon, Lord Byron justified laughter when he said: "And if I laugh at any mortal thing, Tis that I may not weep." And yes, the brief lines from Ella Wheeler Wilcox’s Solitude, thus : "Laugh and the whole world laughs with you; Weep and you weep alone; For the old earth must borrow to mirth; But has trouble enough of its own." John Dryden emphasized that it is a good thing to laugh and if a straw can tickle a man, it is an instrument of happiness. Beasts can weep when they suffer, but they cannot laugh.

It was observed that more scientific studies are providing evidence that simply laughing a bit more each day gives you added energy and leads to a happier and less stressful life, according to Rodger Constandse’s "Goals to Action" contribute to greater productivity and making better use of your time. Constandse provides 17 great reasons to add more laughter to our day, especially during these turbulent times;

1. Laughter relaxes muscles - When you laugh hard, the muscles that aren’t involved in the laughing relax as a natural response of the nervous system. When you finish laughing, the diaphragm, which is the muscle that does the laughing, also relaxes.

2. Reduces stress hormones - Laughter is shown to reduce levels of epinephrine, cortisol dopac and growth hormone in the body. All these hormones are related to the fight-or-flight reaction that causes stress.

3. Boosts immune system - Laughter and feelings of joy have been shown to boost levels of immunoglobulins that are responsible for fighting illnesses and infections.

Laughter also increases the number of neuropeptides that facilitate communication between cells and the nervous system. Since viruses infect cells through the same receptor sites on cells that the nervous system uses to communicate, an increase in neuropeptides at those sites effectively increases the cell’s ability to block viruses.

4. Provides cardiac exercise - According to WebMD.com, laughing heartily 100 times provides similar benefits as exercising for 10 minutes.

5. Lowers blood pressure - A study at the University of Maryland showed that laughing dramatically improves the lining of patients’ blood vessels, improves dilation of the vessels and improves blood flow by as much as 22 percent.

6. Cleanses the lungs - The deep breathing of laughter tends to empty more air out of your lungs than is taken in. This has a cleansing effect on the lungs.

7. Improves cancer survivability - Laughing increases the number and activity of Natural Killer cells, which directly attack tumor cells. Although laughter is not considered a replacement for medical treatments, it is known to largely increase the success rates of such treatments.

8. Reduces pain - Whether laughter releases endorphins, relaxes muscles or distracts a person from his or her pain is not known yet, but it is well documented that laughter reduces pain.

9. Lowers stress - Laughing causes the body to relax from its flight-or-fight response to stressful situations.

10. Reduces anger and anxiety - How can you be angry or anxious when you’re laughing? It’s both a chemical and emotional reaction.

11. Increases joy - Just like you can train yourself to be fast or strong or to have high endurance, you can train yourself to be happy. Laughter and an optimistic outlook are the exercises that train you to be happy.

12. Boosts self-esteem - Situations in life are much easier to cope with when you can laugh at them. It isn’t just the physical effects like releasing endorphins and relaxing muscles, laughing at something changes our perspective of something. If you can laugh at a problem or challenge, you can always overcome it.

13. Sense of control - When something angers us or makes us anxious, we tend to feel like victims. But when we laugh at something, we tend to feel above it and feel as though we are in control.

14. Increases emotional intelligence - According to humor researcher Dr. Paul E. McGhee, humor is a powerful tool in managing anger and anxiety, avoiding non-clinical depression, and for replacing negative emotions with positive ones, which is one of the most advanced Emotional Intelligence Skills.

15. Strengthens team spirit - Humor and joking in a team atmosphere, whether it’s a business team, an athletic team or any other kind of team; breaks down barriers, motivates team members, creates emotional bonding, and eases communication. All these factors result in a more productive team whose members are loyal to one another.

16. Enhances com-munication skills - Laughter and humor make communicating easier by breaking down barriers, such as those related to status or rank, and making awkward moments more comfortable. Humor also softens the emotional tone of communications that are otherwise very serious.

17. Increases creativity - Humor removes you emotionally from the problem you are trying to solve and removes the pressure caused by focusing intently and seriously. People think more creatively when they are feeling relaxed and natural; humor or laughter accomplishes this quickly.

"The person who can bring the spirit of laughter into a room is indeed blessed."-Bennett Cerf /MP

Bayless: Hatton Goes In First Round

by ALEX P. VIDAL

LAS VEGAS, Nevada – Referee Kenny Bayless admitted he thought of stopping the fight in the first round after Ricky Hatton hit the canvas for the second time but decided to give the Briton a second lease of life when he sensed Hatton could still punch despite the savagery in the "The Battle of East and West" at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, Las Vegas.

"I thought he was okay after the two knockdowns but I nearly stopped the fight in the first round when I sensed he was already hurt," Bayless explained in an exclusive interview minutes after the 12-round IBO and Ring Magazine championship duel.

Bayless said he did not anymore bother to administer a mandatory eight-count in the second round when Hatton collapsed spread-eagled in the middle of the ring after being chopped by Pacquiao’s powerful left hook in the chin "as he was totally out and there was no way for him to get up."

Bayless said his primary concern was Hatton’s safety as he was clobbered by a powerful single punch and fell like a log.

Was Hatton’s condition okay after Bayless pulled the plug? "He needs the immediate assistance of ring doctors and two ring doctors immediately attended to him while he was still laying on canvas for several minutes," Bayless said.

After a few minutes, Hatton (45-2, 32 KO’s) got up and shook his head in apparent shock and frustration. He and his entourage left the ring to the hospital "for precautionary measures," announced Golden Boy Promotions CEO Richard Schaeffer in a post fight press conference.

Schaeffer said Hatton was fine that they needed to ensure his safety. Golden Boy Promotion boss Oscar De La Hoya accompanied Hatton in the hospital together with Hatton’s family members.

Floyd Mayweather, Sr., Hatton’s trainer, did not show up in the post fight press conference. He was reportedly disappointed when Hatton ignored his instruction not to engaged Pacquiao (49-3-2, 36 KO’s) in a toe-to-toe brawl which Hatton did.

Pacquiao got the best angle and best distance and his speed and power were so awesome, said Top Rank promoter Bob Arum who hinted that if former world champion Floyd Mayweather Jr. "wants a piece of the small Filipino, he is welcome to the club."

‘Marquez Defeats Pacquiao Twice’

Juan Manuel Marquez nodded in the presidential table as Golden Boy Promotions chief executive officer Richard Schaeffer introduced the main characters in the July 18 card at the MGM Grand Garden Arena, Las Vegas hyped as "Number One versus Numero Uno" featuring comebacking Floyd Mayweather, Jr. and Marquez.

"He is the man who should be the best boxer pound for pound who beat Manny Pacquiao not only once but twice—Juan Manuel Marquez," declared Schaeffer in the hotel’s Hollywood Theater.

Marquez, known as "Dinamita" (dynamite), had repeatedly said he doesn’t consider himself the best boxer in the world unless he beats Pacquiao whom he fought twice—12-round draw on May 8, 2004 and 12-round split decision win for Pacquiao on March 15, 2008.

Marquez (50-4, 37 KO’s) is the Golden Boy Promotions’ protégé.

He is coming off from a stunning nine-round technical knock out (TKO) win over Juan Diaz in Toyota Center, Houston, Texas to annex the World Boxing Organization (WBO) lightweight and World Boxing Association (WBA) super lightweight championships.

Schaeffer had insisted Marquez, 35, won his rematch, a WBC super featherweight title match with Pacquiao dubbed "Unfinished Business" where Pacquiao scored one knockdown.

Two of three judges, however, saw Pacquiao clear winner: Duane Ford 112-115; Jerry Roth 115-112; Tom Miller 113-114.

Marquez has been grumbling for a third match, similar to the blockbuster Pacquiao-Erik Morales trilogy which Team Pacquiao reportedly isn’t inclined to agree now that Pacquiao has breached the light welterweight category and intends to stay there.

Oscar De La Hoya, big boss of Golden Boy Promotions, admitted that, "By far, I consider Juan Manuel Marquez the best fighter of our era—the best Mexican fighter to come out of Mexico in our era."

De La Hoya, who was himself waylaid by Pacquiao via a 9th round TKO in a major upset on December 6, 2008, said Marquez opted to fight Mayweather on July 18 "because he wanted to fight only the best."
Bob Arum’s Top Rank is also eyeing Mayweather Jr. as Pacquiao’s next opponent regardless of the result of Mayweather’s duel with Marquez. /MP

Aklan Re–greening and Beautification Contest

by ERNESTO T. SOLIDUM

Aklan tri-media warmly congratulates participants in the recently concluded Aklan re-greening and beautification contest. Memo of agreement was signed between Gov. Carlito S. Marquez and Municipal Mayors of Aklan in November 2008 with primary aim to spur economic recovery efforts from typhoon Frank.

Target for facelifting is the vital Republic Nautical Highway as connecting point of Roll On-Roll Off (RORO) transport system and main provincial highways. This includes those located on the distant fringes of the nautical highway where bulk of the population resides. Logical participants to this enviable task were Brgy. Councils, NGO’s and PO’s who have jurisdiction over their respective areas.

Incentives in the form of P10,000 cash and garden tools were handed out to participating barangays by the Contest Committee. Mechanics of implementation as well as criteria for judging were discussed and approved during several meetings with project facilitator.

There were two contest classifications which are Barangay and Residential. Of the 17 municipalities, 70 percent participated while 30 percent did as token. Active performers on the Eastern side were Balete, Altavas, Banga, Kalibo, and New Washington. Poor performers were Batan, Libacao, and Madalag.

Miserable Performers

On the Western side, active performers are Tangalan, Lezo, Numancia, Nabas, Malinao, Buruanga, and Malay. Ibajay and Makato performed miserably.

Considering that Ibajay and Makato are along the nautical highway and being led by influential people, it was expected performance is exemplary. I interviewed Mr. Roberto C. Resterio, consultant on socio-economic cultural affairs of Ibajay. He mentioned time pressure. That Ibajay was in the midst of heavy preparation for the Ati-Atihan festival held on the 4th week of January. In addition, the incentive of P10,000 per barangay was grossly inadequate since they have to buy paint and planting materials from plant nurseries in Kalibo or Numancia for distribution to Brgy. councils of Regador to Aquino.

Mr. Resterio was the former administrator of La Consolacion College in Tanauan City, Batangas. However, with due respect to him, he is apparently confused of the mechanics and criteria of the contest.

While the first cause of the debacle can be valid to a certain extent, second reason can be questionable. Mr. Resterio’s plan to buy planting materials in Kalibo or Numancia for mass distribution to Brgy. councils goes against the principle of self reliance, cooperation and economy. Based on the judging criteria under Brgy. Category, ornamental plants and structures must be locally sourced, varied and of good quality. Hence, big budget appropriation could simply go into purchase of paint. It is not true that activity shall be limited to national highway. Provincial highways found in interior sections of the municipality were also included. It required only motivation, coordination and legwork to succeed in community mobilization which the good coordinator failed to undertake.

Recommendation

The issue on territorial coverage by a barangay spanning a highway is relevant since some barangays like Regador and Panayakan are more or less five kilometers long while Baybay and Tondog in Tangalan is only 700 meters long. This is grossly unfair. Handling of cash incentive must e based on cost per kilometer rather than uniform budget releases. In addition, ample time preparation say eight months be ensured to effectively implement beautification plan and solicit donation from local sponsors.

It appeared that outstanding municipalities like Balete, Tangalan, and Numancia have well organized, active and viable organizations in place before the start of the contest. Actually, tall and vigorous ornamental plants like Ilang-Ilang, Indian trees, crotons and others were already established along roadsides. Hence, considered upstarts. It should be recalled that Numancia was 2007 Clean and Green awardee both in the province and Region.

The impact of tourism in the lives of Aklanons can be most significant, productive and healthy. Moving toward greater community involvement and sustainability regardless of monetary benefits and recognition must be top priority. Ms. Beauty Laserna, Tourism Operations Officer of Tangalan disclosed that local re-greening and beautification contest will be extended till July 31 (Mun. Foundation day). The P50,000 cash prize received by the municipality will be spent for the project continuation.

Napoleon Bonaparte once said: "Success have many fathers but failure is an orphan". Tourists and guests come and go but the beauty and smell of success stay with us. It lingers indefinitely over time. May this post evaluation challenges everybody to new heights and glory for a better Aklan. /MP

Stress and Strain at Kalibo International Airport

by ERNESTO T. SOLIDUM

Kapehan guests on May 2 are shown above. They are (l to r) Mr. Victor G. Reyes, Engr. Percy Malonesio, Police Major Lemuel V. Gasataya and Hon. Ronald Marte of Pook, Kalibo.

Overnight conversion of Kalibo Domestic airport into international status has exerted heavy strain and stress on local airport authorities even as ATO has been renamed Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP). Regular "Kapehan Sa Aklan" on May 3 had guested – Engr. Percy A. Malonesio, Manager Kalibo International Airport; Police Inspector Limuel V. Gasataya, Station Chief Aviation Security Group; Mr. Victor G. Reyes, Branch Manager, PAL; and Hon. Ronald Marte, Brgy. Kagawad, Pook.

Practically growing up pains were properly addressed to by panelists as CAAP struggles to meet international safety standards. Crucial issues were raised by Dr. Ambrosio R. Villorente, President, Aklan Press Club on the deplorable condition of airport restrooms and congested passenger arrival and departure areas due to business stalls.

Atty. Ronquillo C. Tolentino cited unsettled real property claims and pandemic alert level No. 5 on swine flu virus. Juan Dayang, PAPI President under-scored the absence of regular immigration, quarantine and Philippine Drug Enforcement Authority (PDEA) per-sonnel. Dayang noted that annual tourist arrivals in our country is two million only compared to Bali, Indonesia’s six million. The reason is that they offer cheap hotel rates and the best in cultural and culinary experience. Moreover, Atty. Allen S. Quimpo butted for international standard of aviation security, services, and accommodation as effective means to insure sustainability.

Obviously, on the hot seat, Engr. Malonesio allayed fears of reduction in airport security and airline services despite personnel deficiency and infra support. He said that existing runway of 2,178 meters will be lengthened to 2,678, the additional area moving towards the direction of the beach front.

Project expansion will cost P240 million. On stream is feasibility study for a separate airport terminal tube that will handle international airline traffic. Obviously, highway serving Kalibo and New Washington will execute a U turn route at the end of the proposed runway. Once completed, more airline flights particularly those coming from Taiphe and S. Korea are expected inspite of competing airports in Iloilo and Caticlan. Their night time flights for now are however limited until 8:00 P.M. Completion of the new terminal building under construction is expected to be in October 2009.

Management issues were also discussed. Marketing stalls and coffee shops have prior approved contracts. Payment for land claims are given due process although there is prolonged settlement of these cases. Smelly comfort rooms, absence of toiletries and defective door locks will be the things of the past once new terminal building is operational.

Inspector Gasataya revealed that their outfit has been augmented by eight (8) personnel. Presently, they are on training in Manila for Basic Aviation Security. Police alert and visibility has been heightened with lapses in airport security worldwide. World Health Organization (WHO) alert on swine flu now totaling more than 6,000 confirmed cases in 16 countries constrains authorities to mitigate spread of the disease. Fortunately, SB member Lilian Q. Tirol has a pending resolution to have DOH install a thermal scanner to detect passengers with respiratory illness.

Manager Reyes reported the plan of PAL to create a Mabuhay Lounge inside airport terminal by October this year. Although their 156 seater Airbus 320 are doing excellent records, bigger aircraft, Boeing 747 will be activated once airport runway is extended and expanded.

He paid a highest compliment to airport maintenance crew Randy Gabo and Elsa Gumban who turned over wallet containing cash of P28,000 and various cards to authorities. Incident happened last April 12 to James Allen Buica, a foreigner. "We need more of their kind doing exemplary virtues of honesty and integrity, Reyes demanded.

Kagawad Marte revealed their barangay Pook is concentrating on re-greening and beautification. Once highway is connected to coastal area, plan is afoot to develop its tourism potential and to establish facility for a fastcraft that would ferry adventurous travelers to Boracay. He added that lighting on highway approach to airport access road will be bolstered as soon as fund becomes available. Also under consideration is proposed welcome arch to be constructed at highway boundary near AKELCO complex.

Excellent management is not to want what is not available, but it is to make do of what are available for mutual benefits to both clients and business. /MP

Numancia OTOP Wins; Kalibo & Nabas Tie 3rd With Lezo Second in OTOP Float

The floats of the Local Governments of Kalibo and Nabas tied at 3rd place during the Aklan Day Celebration this April 25, 2009.

The floats displayed the One-Town, One-Product (OTOP) of the towns it represented where the 1st place is taken by LGU-Numancia featuring their Vermicasting OTOP and the 2nd place by LGU-Lezo with their Pottery OTOP.

The judging was held after a Civic Military Parade around Kalibo participated by local governments, national agencies and the civil society for the 53rd Aklan Day Celebration.

Kalibo Mayor Raymar Rebaldo led the public officials and employees of the Municipality of Kalibo during the Civic Military Parade where its float featured the queen of Philippine fiber, the piña fiber.

LGU-Nabas’ featured their native sleeping mat or "Banig" OTOP.

PAPI–PIA Aklan Is First Ka-Tribu Radyo/Tambuli Team Bounces into 2nd Place

The combined Bowling Team of LGU-Kalibo’s own Community Broadcast Information System (CBIS) DYYM 98.5 Hot FM Ka-Tribu Radyo and the Aklan State University’s DYMT Radio Tambuli in Banga bagged the 2nd place in the recently concluded 2nd Vice Governor Gabrielle Calizo Aklan Media Bowling Cup this April 25, 2009 at the Q-Zone Bowling Center.

Ka-Tribu/Tambuli Team pitted and lost against the defending champion from PAPI and PIA Aklan and retained their title.

Despite the defeat in the championship game, Ka-Tribu/Tambuli Team placed itself 2nd place in this year being the third placer in the 1st Vice Governor Gabrielle Calizo Aklan Media Bowling Cup last year.

Kalibo Mayor Raymar Rebaldo, Chairman of the Board of Director of Ka-Tribu Radyo and Team Captain, admitted that Team PAPI/PIA are a class of their own when it comes to bowling with personalities known to have frequented and distinguished themselves in the sport. He is glad however, that the Ka-Tribu/Tambuli Team can hold their own and was able to grab the 2nd place.

"Wait for the upcoming Basketball," teased Ronnel Irodestan, one of the consistent pin fall scorers of Ka-Tribu/Tambuli Team, since there are talks that the 2nd United Media Basketball Cup may be launched this year with Ka-Tribu Radyo holding the Championship title in 2007. /MP

EDITORIAL

Silencing Truth So Corruption Prevails

Rodolfo "Jun" Lozada told a Senate probe last year that the US $329 million deal between the government of the Philippines and the People’s Republic of China’s ZTE Corporation was overpriced. It was higher above the normal ceiling by US $130 million. It was done to allow hefty commissions.

It was Jun Lozada’s allegation which hastened the resignation as chairman of the Commission on Election of Mr. Benjamin Abalos. Last year, it was Lozada who exposed Abalos who offered "Sec. may 200 kayo diyan" (Secretary, you will have 200 in it.)

Mr. Romulo Neri at that time was chief of NEDA then Chairman of the Commission on Higher Education and now Social Security System President was offered "200" if he can facilitate the early approval of the US$329 million NBN ZTE Broadband deal.

Moreover, Jun Lozada exposed the involvement in the said deal of the occupants of Malacañang Palace. His exposition endangered his life and that of his family. To prevent danger, Lozada and his family stayed with the De La Salle Brothers.

On Thursday, April 30, Jun Lozada was arrested on the case of Perjury, one of the 16 cases filed against him for being "whistle blower".

The Warrant of Arrest was issued on the charges filed by Miguel Defensor, former Presidential Chief of staff. Sr. Mary John Mananzan of AMRSP accompanied Lozada in a police car which brought them to the Manila Police District for booking, finger printing and the taking of mug shots.

Lozada was not hand cupped who told newsmen: "My sense of justice is completely shattered".

Though Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim had provided P6,000 for the bail for his temporary liberty, Lozada refused to post bailbond as a sign of protest.
Lozada’s situation is like a man in search for truth but he found jail.

The officials concerned who are suspects of corruption are in perfect liberty. Those airport officials who impeded free and safe travel home for Jun Lozada are enjoying the sweetness of their lives.

Lozada’s arresting officers from the Manila Police District showed and read to Lozada parts of the arrest warrant. Judge Jorge Emmanuel Loredo of the Metropolitan Trial Court Branch 26 issued the warrant.

But Defensor, with his wife and children, vowed to pursue the perjury case he filed versus Jun Lozada even if it reaches the Supreme Court. However, Defensor will withdraw the case if Lozada will retract his statement that he (Defensor) lied; that he kidnapped Lozada upon arrival from Hongkong.

Defensor merely wants "to clear his name for the good of my family. I don’t want Lozada go to jail", said Defensor. But where is Lozada now? Is he not inside a jail?

For fear of repercussions, it was reported that Malacañang officials called up Defensor to "drop the case". Press Secretary Cerge Remonde and Political Affairs Adviser Gabby Claudio called up to drop the case "because the Lozada issue was dead".

Former Presidents Cory Aquino and Erap Estrada "appealed to all freedom – loving Filipinos to support Lozada in every way possible and to make it known, loud and clear, that he is not alone". Erap condemned the arrest. He said, "it is the height of injustice to Lozada and to the Filipino people". Under this administration, the voice of truth is silenced while the acts of the corrupt prevail", he stressed.

In the words of Makati Business club, the filing of 16 cases versus Lozada and the members of his family are blatant acts of harassment... of suppressing the truth about the over pricing and bribery that attended the NBN-ZTE deal.

In the Senate, Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile is assessing the necessity of continuing the provision of security officers to Lozada despite his arrest.

Sen. Panfilo Lacson and Sen. Richard Gordon offered to help Lozada by posting bail to secure temporary liberty. Lacson does not believe the government will be able to resolve the corruption problem if it resorted to getting back at whistle blower like Lozada. Sen. Pia Cayetano and Sen. Francis Pangilinan assailed the political harassment to Lozada. Sen. Mar Roxas consoled Lozada by saying he must not lose hope because the people will support him. /MP

Entrepreneurial Farmer

Ambrosio R. Villorente

Fiesta In Four Towns

FIESTA is a religious festival, a saint day. This is a gala celebration.
Fiesta is a celebration to express gratitude to a patron saint for many blessings the people of a community has received and enjoyed. Fiesta is also one occasion where relatives and friends meet to enjoy special food and drinks prepared for the occasion. It is a time for the renewal of friend-ship, reinforcement of family solidarity, and closer bonding.

To attract more people to join and participate in the celebration, events are organized and imple-mented.

There are religious, civic and social activities where the people participate and enjoy. In the churches, holy masses are celebrated in honor of its patron saint. There are baptism, confirmation, and marriage rites.

Community people offer masses in thanksgiving and salvation for their departed ancestors and relatives.

Saint Joseph the Worker

May 1 of every year is the feast day of Saint Joseph the Worker. He is the patron saint of Banga, Malinao, Malay and Numancia, Aklan. There are barangays which patron saint is Saint Joseph the Worker. Several years ago, the feast day of Saint Joseph was March 19, but the Roman Catholic Church transferred the celebration to May 1.

In Banga, Mayor Antonio Maming held on April 27 "Mutya It Banga" as a special feature of the Banga Town Fiesta in honor of Saint Joseph the Worker.

After World War II, I recall Banga held its annual town and religious fiesta as grand as possible. Beginning February, canvassing of votes was held weekly to elect Miss Banga, the Queen. It was one of the activities replete with benefit dances to raise money. Of course, votes were in the form of money (cash). To raise additional fund, baskets were sold to the highest bidders.

The winners were proclaimed Queen and crowned Miss Banga on the eve of the festival, March 18. Festival management invited guest and speaker to proclaim and crown the Queen and the members of her court. Usually, the invited guests were eloquent and articulate speakers who belonged to high society. He used the highest adjectives possible to describe the queen and her court. The speaker extolled the Queen using virtues oftentimes did not match with her behavior.

On March 19th the day of the celebration, holy masses are concelebrated in the Roman Catholic Church in honor of Saint Joseph. The mass over, civic program followed in the Banga Town Plaza in front of the Municipal Hall and the Roman Catholic Church. All public schools of Banga participated by way of group dances where the best were awarded valuable prizes.

That fiesta meant brand new shoes and clothes for me and for other children. It was a high business as it is today for merchants of Kalibo.
In Numancia, Saint Joseph the Worker festival started on the first week of April with basketball tournament which culminates on the eve of the fiesta. Every evening, Numancia Town Plaza is filled with people watching basketball.

This year’s Numancia Municipal Fiesta features several events. In addition to ball games, it holds "Miss Earth Numancia 2009" to remind people of climate change. Miss Earth and her court was crowned on Wednesday evening, April 29.

To know the efforts and products of Numancia-hanon, a one day exhibit was held in the town plaza opened after the grand parade where the healthiest and biggest beast of burden pulled the carts and sledges loaded with farm and sea foods. Exhibited and sold were the best and fresh organically produced fruits and vegetables, pretty and exotic flowers and ornamental plants, and delicious fishpond products. There were abundance of roasted pigs, one product Numancia is best known for. The One Town-One-Product vermicast of several sacks were exhibited and sold.

The Balik Bayan Night on April 30 was opened with the "Balsi de Numancia", danced by 60 leading citizens of the municipality who were patiently trained by Ms. Ethel Kimpo, a Master Teacher in Numancia Integrated School.

Despite the slight drizzle and leaks in a temporary roof and patches of water on a cemented dance floor, Hon. Elverita T. Templonuevo Mayor of Numancia and her entourage of dancers were undaunted.

They showed the spectators the mastery of their steps, the attractive looks of the senior citizen participants whose lifestyle is being spent with moderation. They stepped and swayed with elegantly tailored dresses according to the tune played by Sallador Band. /MP

Miss Earth Numancia 2009

by CHRISTY ANN NAVARRA

Photo shows the court of Ms. Earth Numancia 2009 who are (l to r) second runner up – Jeane Frances B. Ureta, Her Majesty, Mary Shellanie M. Nallos, first runner up – Ernalyn T. Tana and Ms. Earth Numancia 2008 Rea Gizelle M. Sim.

Movie star Philip Salvador graced the civic program of the Numancia Municipal and Religious Fiesta held on April 28. He is shown above during the ribbon cutting of the farm exhibit with Mayor Elverita T. Templonuevo, Vice Mayor Evangeline M. Ibabao former Mayor Ernesto I. Templonuevo, Hon. Jerome Vega of Camanci Sur, and Dr. Reinalda Magdaluyo.

Picture above shows a well-dressed bull which pulls the sledge of barangay Pusiw loaded with organically produced farm products of fruits and vegetables.

If rain shower is God’s way to bless His environment and His people, then Ms. Earth Numancia 2009 Grand Pageant and Coronation Night has no excuse. Amidst the pouring rain, it turned out to be a complete success. Truly, Numancia is endowed with earthly beauties, talents and brains as it is once again proven right on the occasion of the pageant night of Ms. Earth Numancia 2009 in the evening, April 29 at the Cultural Stage, Numancia Town Plaza, Poblacion, Numancia, Aklan.

In connection with the Earth Day celebration and in support to the Gawad Pangulo sa Kapaligiran program, the Search for Ms. Earth Numancia 2009 pageant is a special feature which highlighted the celebration of Numancia town fiesta in honor of Patron Saint, St. Joseph The Worker.

Numancia Mayor Elverita Templonuevo, in her speech, cited the relevance of Numancia-hanon beauty and good qualities serving as role models worthy of emulation to promote the cleanest and greenest town of Numancia in the Province of Aklan.

There are 10 lovely candidates who competed in the beauty contest for Ms. Earth Numancia 2009. The 10 finalists are: Mary Jane P. Arcenio – Dongon West; Jobelle D. Tumanon – Albasan; Ernalyn T. Tana – Joyao-Joyao; Monalyn D. Tresballes – Laguinbanua West; Ronalyn T. Gerolla – Dongon East; Ritchel R. Rivas – Bulwang; Jeane Frances B. Ureta – Poblacion; Mary Shellanie M. Nallos – Tabangka; Princess Diane T. Dondon – Camanci Norte; and Michelle P. Antiola – Navitas.

The finalists who are awarded special and major awards are: Best in Production Number went to Michelle P. Antiola; Most Model Look went to Ronalyn T. Gerolla; Ms. Lucky Face went to Monalyn D. Tresballes; Ms. Friendship and Best in Non-biodegradable Gown was awarded to Jeane Frances B. Ureta; Mary Shellanie M. Nallos won Best in Talent, Best in Interview, Best in Swimsuit, Best in Summer Wear and Ms. Photogenic. She was conferred the title, Ms. Earth Numancia 2009.

Before the announce-ment of the final three winning candidates, Ms. Rea Gizelle M. Sim, Ms. Earth Numancia 2008 made her final walk and delivered her farewell speech in the evening, the coronation night.

The throne of Ms. Earth Numancia 2009, Her Majesty Mary Shellanie M. Nallos, First Runner Up – Ernalyn T. Tana, and Jeane Frances B. Ureta – Second Runner Up.

This years Search Committee for Ms. Earth Numancia 2009 was composed of well-applauded organizing committee headed by Hon. Cindy Magnabijon Cipriano, Chairman, Ms. Madelyn Vega Rasgo – Vice Chairman, Hon. Albert B. Ilarina – official choreographer, and Hon. Remo E. Cawaling and Ms. Jesie Marie T. Ibabao – members.

Mr. Leopoldo C. Sanchez, Jr. anchored the pageant and Mr. Mac Nickle D. Nabor hosted it. /MP

Aklan Recognizes Its Re-greeners

by ERNESTO T. SOLIDUM

Gov. Carlito S. Marquez overwhelmed by Aklan’s recovery efforts toward progress and stability opened his welcome speech with "Mabuhay and Long Live Aklan!"

Rousing shouts of approval came from some 1,200 people mostly government workers, Brgy. officials, NGO’s and students who earlier participated in civic and military parade. The occasion was comme-morative program of the 53rd Founding Anniversary of Aklan that regularly features agro-industrial products for domestic and foreign consumer markets.

Tangible proof is the upsurge in tourist arrivals to Boracay despite worldwide economic recession, satisfactory re-greening and beautification campaigns and rice productivity for food security. This occasion is also time for thanksgiving and for evaluation of current programs to gain new heights," Marquez pointed out.

Invited guest speaker was Asst. Sec. Raul N. Banias, Presidential Assistant for Western Visayas. "Creating Opportunities in Adversity" was the fitting theme of the anniversary. He stated that Aklan has historic cultural significance because of Datu Bangkaya, head of Katilingban of Madyaas who wielded political and economic influence over other provinces in Panay and Negros," Banias recalled his history.

"Although Iloilo was also devastated by typhoon Frank, it was nothing compared to the apocalypse-like scenario that happened here in several decades. Individual Aklanons and their collective efforts to rebuild Aklan by carefully managing its rich but fragile natural resources are succeeding. It is also done by a combination of human initiative like skills development that would effectively transform the vision and ideals of its founding father, Godofredo P. Ramos", Banias stressed.

Asst. Sec. Banias mentioned the on-going Senate deliberation on the P8 billion Paglaum fund for Panay sponsored by Sen. Edgardo Angara. Under the bill P481 million is allocated for Aklan’s rehabilitation efforts on infrastructure that would strengthen comparative edge of the tourism industry.

This is viewed by many observers as skewed considering extensive damage to lives and property in Aklan viz-à-vis similar misfortune in Iloilo, Capiz and Antique. In addition, there is no time frame for fund release from stimulus package of Pres. Arroyo now that it is almost a year since typhoon Frank struck on June 21, 2008.

Cong. Florencio T. Miraflores recalled that Aklan was just a humble 5th class province 53 years ago. Presently, Pres. Arroyo calls it a place where golden eggs are laid. Climate for investment are pretty good with upgraded nautical highway, RORO at Jetty Port, conversion of Kalibo International Airport, and improvement of Caticlan Airport, Malay, Aklan. "All that we need is strength of character and practical knowledge to cope with adversities in life," said Miraflores.

Meanwhile, Ms. Roselle Q. Ruiz released the official results of Aklan re-greening and beautification contest. Ms. Roselle Q. Ruiz is the supervising tourism operations officer, LGU-Aklan. The plaques and cash prizes were handed to the winners or their rep-resentatives during the Commemorative Program on April 25. According to Engr. Roger M. Esto, the winners are:

For the Eastern side, Brgy. Entry, Linayasan, Altavas – First; Calizo, Balete,– Second; Fulgencio, Balete – Third. In the Residential Entry, Mateo E. Songcuya, Jr., Libas, Banga –First; Clarita C. Fernandez, Pook, Kalibo – Second; Remedios C. Gammad, Pook, Kalibo – Third. For Brgy. Category, Polo, New Washington – Best in Innovative Partnership Concept. Each barangay received P10,000.

In Residential Category, John Kenneth A. Traje of Tambak, New Washington, Most Promising Landscape Entrepreneur; Henry R. Panado, Cabugao, Altavas –Best in Integrated Gardening Approach; Piedad M. Castillo, Tabayon, Banga – Best in Ecological Landscape; and Guillermo N. Mamay, Feliciano, Balete – Best in Aesthetic Design. They received P5,000 each.

In Western Side, Brgy. Entry, Tagas, Tangalan – First; Sta. Cruz Bigaa, Lezo – Second; and Dongon West, Numancia – Third. In the Residential Entry, Leaflor C. Pingoy, Buenasuerte, Nabas – First; Zenaida S. Cezar, Gibon, Nabas – Second; Gerry A. Revestir, Sta. Cruz, Lezo – Third. For Brgy. Category, Poblacion, Malinao – Best in Rock Artworks Landscape; Jawili, Tangalan – Best in Brgy. Mobilization and People’s Participation; Panayakan, Tangalan – Best in Thematic Design; Laguinbanwa East, Numancia–Most Diversified Plants Landscape; and Bagongbayan, Buruanga – Best in Indigenous Landscape.

Each barangay received P10,000. For the Residential Category, Godelyn A. Lambito, Toledo, Nabas – Best in Artistic Design; Bobby T. Taunan, Sambiray, Malay – Best in Variety of Plants; Iris C. Joligon, Tabangka, Numancia–Best in Ecological Landscape; Josefina S. Villanueva, Poblacion, Numancia – Best Exotic Landscape; and Blas D. Amacio, Poblacion, Nabas – Best in Aesthetic Design at P5,000 each.

For the Municipal Awardees: Eastern Side, Municipality of Balete and Western Side Municipality of Tangalan – Best in Brgy. Mobilization and Award Performance.

The other 15 municipalities received P30,000 each which are Altavas, Banga, Batan, Buruanga, Ibajay, Kalibo, Lezo, Libacao, Madalag, Makato, Malinao, Malay, New Washington, Nabas, and Numancia. /MP

Roxas To GMA: Stop Corruption, Red Tape

Senator Mar Roxas last week said President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo still has time to stop corruption and red tape in her government to boost efforts to attract foreign investors so that the problem of massive unemployment could be eased a little bit before her term ends next year.

Roxas, chairman of the Senate trade and commerce committee, noted that high incidence of bribery cases and protracted business set-up procedures have made the Philippines unattractive to investors.

"The root of our problems stem from massive corruption in government," he said, citing the high incidence of sensational cases of corruption scandals that hit the country in the past 10 years.

"Unless GMA controls thievery in her government, investors will not even give us a second look and our economy will suffer," he added.

Roxas cited a recent World Bank report pointing to prolonged bureaucratic processes as one of the key reasons for the country’s low foreign investment rate. The survey showed 15 different procedures for starting a business that would take an average of 52 days to complete, with costs equivalent to 29.8 percent of the per capita national gross income.

On the other hand, there were 24 different procedures for dealing with construction permits that take over 200 days to complete and about 37 different procedures to enforce a contract that take a whopping 842 days to implement. The country also scored only 2 on the 1 to 10 scale that assessed the degree of regulatory protection given to investors in terms of full disclosure and the like.

Roxas said the first step would be for the Philippine government to show the international community that it is effectively cracking down on corruption, particularly by putting to jail officials and other influential people accused of pocketing public funds.

"The Ombudsman must take the first step by doing its job as the agency tasked to prosecute the corrupt in government, instead of letting go those perceived to be close to higher ups," he said.

Roxas To Gonzales: Do Your Job

Senator Mar Roxas last week hit Justice Secretary Raul Gonzales for blaming the Senate for "delays" in his depart-ment’s investigation into the complaints filed against Legacy owner Celso de los Angeles and his corporate cohorts.

According to Roxas, vital documentary evidence have been transmitted by the Senate trade and commerce committee, which he chairs, to the Department of Justice (DoJ), through the National Bureau of Investigation
(NBI), as early as March 12.

Moreover, the Senate panel has transmitted to the DoJ, through the NBI, copies of the transcript of its March 9 public hearing and the affidavits of former Legacy chief executive officer Carolina Hiñola and former chief finance officer Namnama Pacetes-Santos, who have both detailed how corporate funds were spent by and intermingled with the personal funds of De los Angeles.

The documents were received by NBI Special Investigator III Laureano C. Tugas II, who was authorized by NBI Special Action Unit chief Atty. Angelito DLP Magno. The NBI Special Action unit was formed by NBI director Nestor Mantaring to investigate the Legacy mess on the directives of Gonzalez.

The Visayan senator said Gonzalez is better off doing his job instead of pining blame to the Senate or other personalities the ineptitude and inaction of his department.

"I cannot understand why instead of doing his work, Gonzalez is making all these noise and blaming his office’s incompetence to others. It is good the Senate is investigating this because if not, Raul Gonzalez would not even spend a minute to look into it," said Roxas.

Roxas: SC Ruling On Party-List Reps

Lessens Powers of Trapos

Senator Mar Roxas last week said the Supreme Court (SC) decision increasing the number of available party-list seats at the House of Rep-resentatives has virtually weakened the power of traditional politicians over the legislative system.

"The SC decision is good for the representative democracy as it gives more chance for groups to be heard. Thus, the trapos’ (traditional politicians) dominance over the system is lessened," he said.

He said political issues, such as the controversial Charter Change through an illegal constituent assembly, could now take the backburner while peoples’ interests and concerns take center stage at the House plenary.

Roxas said, the ruling would correct the existing formula on the number of party-list representatives who could take their seats. From the present 238 House members, the number would increase to 270 after the high court ruling that all 55 seats for party-list groups should be filled up.

"The Constitution only says 1/5 is minimum reserved for party lists. So the 50 is the one fifth (1/5) if there are only 200 geographic districts. But now there are 219 such districts. Necessarily, the 1/5 of the new members will increase beyond 50," he said. /MP

Pacquiao Godfather Warns Against Impostors Soliciting in Iloilo

by ALEX P. VIDAL

Adriano "Rey" Golingan, the spiritual adviser of Manny Pacquiao has clarified that nobody is authorized in Iloilo to solicit money in behalf of Team Pacquiao saying "it is not the style of Manny Pacquiao."

Speaking from Gen. Santos City on April 21, Adriano "Rey" Golingan, Pacquiao’s wedding godfather and member of Team Pacquiao, said the unscrupulous individuals in Iloilo who are using the name of Team Pacquiao to solicit money should be exposed and put behind bars.

"It is Manny Pacquiao who gives money to some local government units and not the other way around," said Golingan, who is regional president of the Amateur Boxing Association of the Philippines (ABAP) and owner of the gym in Mindanao where Manny Pacquiao trained.

Golingan said the mayors and the other victims "are themselves to blame if they did not verify the claims of the impostors."

Reports said several government offices, re-gional directors, municipal mayors, and businessmen recently complained that at least two individuals posing as "media men" and "members of Team Pacquiao" have been soliciting money from them.

"One of them, who claimed to be a broad-caster, even sent text messages to several public officials saying he is a member of Team Pacquiao and that he will use the money for the team when he joins the team (for Pacquiao’s next fight on May 2 in Las Vegas)," a regional director who himself received the text message reported.

A newly reinstalled mayor in the third district of Iloilo who regained his seat after losing in the vice mayoralty race, admitted that the impostor "has been bothering him" through text messages and through regular visits in his municipality.

One of their victims was reportedly a prominent realtor who "donated" a large sum.

"They ride in a motorcycle carrying media IDs," said a male teacher who overheard the regional director’s complaint.

Golingan will leave for Los Angeles on April 23 to join the Team Pacquiao in a caravan from Hollywood to Las Vegas where Pacquiao will try to grab the IBO light welterweigh ttitle from Ricky Hatton in a 12-round championship fight. /MP

Reason and Concern

by Ronquillo C. Tolentino

Nograles’ Fourth Mode

Amendments or revisions to the 1987 Philippine Constitution may be done through three methods as enumerated in Sections 1 and 2, Art. XVII of the said Constitution. Jose N. Nolledo in the 1987 first edition of his work The Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines Explained simply enumerated, for a better understanding, methods of amendment or revision is as follows : " (1) By the Congress by a vote of three fourths (3/4) of all its members; (2) By a constitutional convention, either called by two thirds (2/3) vote of all the members of the Congress, or approved by the electorate (in a referendum) as when (in the latter case) the question of calling such convention is submitted to the electorate by majority vote of all the members of the Congress; or (3) by the people through a system of initiative under the conditions set forth in Section 2 of the instant Article.

In any of the ways mentioned above, the revision or amendment must be submitted to the people for ratification and the same shall be valid only when ratified by a majority of the votes cast in a plebiscite. (Sec. 4, Art. XVII)".

Any lawyer or political science student would readily enumerate the three methods of amending or revising the 1987 Constitution. Albeit not found in the Constitution, House of Representatives speaker Prospero Nograles had contrived of a fourth mode via his

House Bill No. 737.

Nograles asserts that his bill is intended to amend the Constitution’s economic provisions, specifically Sections 2 and 3 of Article XII (National Economy and Patrimony). Article XII has 22 sections. His bill seeks to give foreigners rights enjoyed by Filipinos inclusive of land ownership and public utilities.

The intendment of House Bill No. 737 is at once suspect. Nograles states that his bill would be treated as an ordinary bill. He seeks three-fourth, of each chamber to pass his bill though. Why 3/4 vote of each chamber when he contends that his bill is to be treated as an ordinary legislation? If it is an ordinary legislation, a simple majority of the members of each house of Congress would be needed.

Even if Nograles may have only considered Sections 1 and 2 Art. XII, there is no telling that from the 60 percent – 40 percent provision on natural resources, it may proceed to Section 11 on public utilities and provisions on foreign investments. It may even proceed to the ownership and management of mass media under Sec. 11 (1) of Art. XVI or to Section 10, par. 2 which qualifies the rule that in the grant of right, privileges, concession covering the national economy and patrimony, the State shall give preference to qualified Filipinos."

As a matter of recollection and even if House Bill No. 737 or the Nograles Fourth Mode is a disguised constituent assembly. Rep. Herminio Teves has occasion to state that the constituent assembly failed in May 1957, April 1966 and June 1969.

Already, speaker Nograles expressed that his fourth mode may be questioned in the Supreme Court.

The hurriedness of the Nograles Fourth Mode is at once suspect. It is, as a matter of fact, an exercise in misplaced legislative priority.

I may be wrong but one should look back at the failed people initiative on the 2005 Consultative Commission Proposed Revision of the 1987 Philippine Constitution. Article VIII had the legislative and executive powers vested in a unicameral parliament while Article VIII provides that the executive power shall be exercised by the Prime Minister with the assistance of his cabinet.

Since the May 2002 national political summit, there had been several attempts to revise or amend the 1987 Constitution.

I adhere to the observation that there is a compelling need to amend or revise the 1987 Constitution. But the Filipino people must be given a sufficient period of awareness, knowledge and discussion of the provisions to be amended or revised.

Better that we elect delegates to a constitutional convention to amend or revise the Constitution even after the 2010 elections. /MP

Sugilanon Ni Tita Linda

Tita Linda Belayro

Parabula It Tatlong Ka Kahoy

Dungan sa pagsubeak ko adlaw, agahon pa. Dungan man nga nag-bugtaw ro tatlong ka maintok nga kahoy. Sam-tang naga painit sanda sa silak, nag sueogiran sanda ko andang mga handum.

Hambae ko unang kahoy, "Kon ako mag-bahoe, bu-ot ko nga pukanon, obrahong tabla ag obrahon nga pinaka sadyaan nga katre. Ro anang kasadya hay angay ag bagay nga eogban it isaeang ka hari.

Nagsabat man ro pangaywa, "Kon ako magbahoe, bu-ot ko man nga obrahon ako nga pinaka madasig nga barko. Rayang bapor hay paga dumaeahan it pinaka maaeam nga kapitan.

Indi man magpadaug ro pangatlo. Sumabat imaw, "Kon ako magbahoe, bu-ot ko man nga obrahon ako nga pinaka mataas nga baeay. Tanan ro mga tawo hay maga tangda kakon ag ako paga dayawon.

Matsa owa magbuhay, tumaliwan ro mga dinag-on. Mabahoe ag mataas eon ro mga kahoy nga pukanon agud orahon kon ano man nga mga bagay nga mapili-an it tag-ana.

Ogaling, taliwas sa handum it tatlo ro natabo. Ro katre para eogban it hari hay nangin pasungan nga sabsaban it mga hayop. Maskin pasungan imaw hay guin obra nga katre ko eapsag nga si Hesus. Guin butangan it mga dagami it paeay ratong pasungan agod maghumok nga eogban ko atong Manunubos.

Ratong pinaka madasig nga barko hay nangin maisot nga baroto. Ogaling rayang baroto ro guin sakyan ni Hesus sa anang pag eakbay agod mag wali sa mga tawo samtang ro mga tawo hay sa takas. Raya man ro baroto nga guin sakyan kon paano mangin epektibo nga mangingisda it tawo.

Rato man nga bu-ot mangin mataas nga baeay hay guin obra nga krus. Raya ro krus nga guin eansangan ko atong Manunubos. Samtang nagatindog ro krus nga may Kristong naka eansang, tanan hay naga tangda kana sa pagkilaea, paghinoesoe ag pag-pangamuyo it kapatawaran tongod sapagtubos nana ko atong nga kasae-anan.

Tanan ro tawo hay may mga handum. Bukon it maeain ro naga handum, ogaling indi kita mag-handum it masyadong mataas tongod kon ano ro kataas ko atong handum hay imaw man ro kasakit ko atong pagka hueog nga indi eon kita makabangon.

Ro handum hay imaw ro naga tueod sa tawo nga magporsige, ogaling paino-inohon naton pirmi nga naga tapak kita sa eogta ag indi pagsundan it bugae tongod ro bugae ro naga daea sa tawo nga lipatan ro anang guin halinan. /MP

Roxas City News

by Benny Cortes

City Conducts One-Stop-Shop

On Business Licensing

Mayor Vicente B. Bermeo initiated the holding of the "Sulong Roxas Business One-Stop-Shop" (BOSS) of its Business Licensing Depart-ment in order to generate revenue by the renewal and/or issuance of new business permits to city applicants.

This yearly activity, according to Bermejo, is part of the program of the city government to encourage and promote business activities and investments to generate more revenues for the city treasury.

Other government agencies and entities outside of city hall were likewise invited to help people apply and secure business permits and other requirements needed by agencies concerned.

The lobby of the City Hall, Roxas City was crowded with applicants applying for new or renew their business permits and other requirements needed by agencies like the SSS, DTI, PhilHealth, Bureau of Fire Protection, City Health Office, and BIR.

The opening of the One-Stop-Shop service is designed to make the issuance of new and renewal of business permits easier and convenient as well as to reduce the length of processing period to one week or less.

For the renewal of business permits and licenses, the city’s Business Licensing Department has posted the necessary documents needed in conspicuous places. For new business permits and licenses, applicants are required to submit a Barangay Clearance for 2009, Lease Contract (if building establishment is rented), occupancy permit, and DTI Business Permit and SEC certificate.

Corros Tops City Chess Grand Prix

Vicente Corros of Brgy. Dinginan, Roxas City, was declared champion in the Inter-members Chess Grand Prix sponsored by the Roxas City Chess Association, Inc. held at City Hall Lobby, Roxas City, recently.

According to Manuel L. Cambe, RCCAI president, Roxas City officials led by City Mayor Vicente B. Bermejo was very supportive of the revival of chess tournaments in the city particularly among the youth as well as the elderly. So far, Capiz has already produced three National Masters in Chess–Frederic Tumanon in the mid-70s; Francis Jocson in 2005; and Catalino Pestaño, Jr., all of Roxas City.

Other winners aside from Corros who were awarded P700.00 plus trophy by Kirst Kat Venture, c/o Engr. Jun Labao, president, were "Doc" Whence of Brgy. XI, Roxas City, 1st runner up with P500.00 cash plus trophy and medal donated by BM Alfonso "Bo" Bediones, Jr., Ben Billones of Brgy. Punta Tabuc, Roxas City, 3rd place, P200.00 cash donated by Liga President Wilson Acerve, Roel Bryan Alsagon, Brgy. Tiza, Roxas City, 4th place, P200.00 cash donated by Wilson Acerve, John Lo Orioke, CPC Marine student, Roxas City and 5th place, P100.00 cash donated by SK President Katrina Barrios.

Marion Lim Fernandez of Brgy. Mongpong, Roxas City, 6th place P100.00 donated by Katrina Barrios, Ryan Alcazaren of Brgy. Tanque, Roxas City, 7th place, P100.00 cash donated by Katrina Barrios; and Fajardo Olandres of Burgos St., Roxas City, 8th place, P100.00 donated by Katrina Barrios.
Other donors were BM Evan Contreras, III for trophy and medals, City Councilor – Carla B. Abela for streamers plus cash; Atty. Felizardo Espino for arbiter’s fee.

Donato Azarce served as chief arbiter with Manuel L. Cambe as tournament director. /MP

APIOA Honors Jose “Soñing” Tumbokon

by TERENCE T. TORIANO

Minister Jose Tumbokon and Kalibo Mayor Raymar A. Rebaldo

Posterity pose for APIOA officers, members, guests, and former Minister of State for Public Information Jose Tumbokon and wife, Lilia Tumbokon. Chita Heap, Atty. Ronquillo Tolentino, Minister Jose Tumbokon, Lilia Tumbokon, Kalibo Mayor Raymar Rebaldo, SP members Ramon Gelito and Wilbert Igoy. Judith Tindog, Sumra Dela Cruz Rojo, Marcela Tinagan, Deana Ruiz, Venus Villanueva, Carmelo Orbista, Edwin Pelayo, Nelson Neon, Conrad Indelible, APIOA President Maribel Tolentino, Ulysses Espartero, Edwin Ramos, Terence Toriano and Leopoldo Sanchez, Jr.

The Aklan Public Information Officers Association (APIOA) in its foundation day honors former Assemblyman and Minister of State for Public Information, Jose Soñing Tumbokon. A Tribute to the National Spokesman for the Filipino was held at the Museo it Akean (Museum of Aklan) on April 23, 2009 dubbed "Pag-ulingod.

Vintage publications, memorabilia and photo-graphs by Tumbokon were exhibited at the Museo it Akean for public viewing.

The occasion was graced by important personalities like sang-guniang panlalawigan members Ramon Gelito and Wilbert Igoy, provincial administrator Atty. Diego M. Luces, Atty. Ronquillo Tolentino, and Kalibo Mayor Raymar Rebaldo.

Jose "Soñing" Tumbokon served as Minister of State for Public Information under the parliamentary system of government during Pres. Ferdinand Marcos’ administration. He authored several books, served as spokesman for the government and the "Kilusang Bagong Lipunan" and represented the Philippines to several fora abroad.

The tribute is conducted in support with the Municipality of Kalibo’s thrust to honor local patriots and martyrs. /MP

IJA Book Donation

by MEGS S. LUNN

Mr. Quintin Jose "Quineto" V. Pastrana and Ms. Ching Jorge in the symbolic books turn-over to IJA represented by Mrs. Karina G. Mallonga.

Pastrana Foundation, Inc. donated to Infant Jesus Academy (IJA), Kalibo 50 boxes of brand new local and international books. During the formal turn-over, Ms. Ching Jorge, Executive Director of Batu Balani, Makati City, and Mr. Quintin Jose "Quineto" V. Pastrana, the grandson of the late Gregorio Pastrana who chairs the Pastrana Foundation, Inc., came to turn-over the books to IJA, Kalibo Campus. Mrs. Karina G. Mallonga happily received the bulk of volumes of books.

During the present-ation, the Memorandum of Agreement was also signed between IJA and Pastrana Foundation, Inc. naming the IJA Library as the Gregorio I. Pastrana Community Library. Present in the signing of MOA are Hon. Mark V. Quimpo, SB member, Kalibo, the contact person of the Foundation and Hon. Soviet Dela Cruz, SB member, Kalibo, as president of the IJA Kalibo Family Council graced the occasion. The IJA and the Foundation aim to share the library to their adopted community project, like the Mangyan adopted by the IJA Antipolo and Marikina, respectively. Gregorio I. Pastrana was a former Mayor of Kalibo who hailed from the town of Malinao. Pastrana Park was named in his honor being a philanthropist and great advocate of literacy. /MP

TransCo/NGCP Facility in Nabas is Illegal: DAR-Aklan and PARCOM

by TERENCE T. TORIANO

The Department of Agrarian Reform-Aklan’s Boss, Atty. Daniel Martelino, Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer II, and Provincial Agrarian Reform Coor-dinating Committee (PARCCOM) Chairman, Rene Enriquez, in a separate interview with LGU-Kalibo’s own, CBIS DYYM Ka-Tribu Radyo, said “TransCo/NGCP facility in Brgy. Solido in Nabas is illegal as it violated President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo’s Administrative Order No. 226-A where the processing and approval of all land conversion applications of all rice lands is suspended for a period of two years. Administrative Order No. 226-A was signed in July 2008.

Enriquez pointed out that during PARCCOM’s assessment in the area, they suggested some locations that will not affect irrigated and irrigable lands but, adding insult to injury, TransCo/NGCP instead started clearing over irrigable lands without acquiring land conversion clearance from DAR-Aklan as attested by Martelino.

Atty. Martelino informed that since DAR-Aklan currently has no Legal Officer, it submitted his assessment and recommendation for legal action to DAR Regional Office.

Enriquez said that PARCCOM has approved their own resolution and position letter which they will submit to the President and PARC. He suggested that the farmers and people of Brgy. Solido organize as a group and oppose the project.

Heavy equipment were allegedly operated by Nabas SB member Fe Lazoleta at the Transco site in Brgy. Solido, Nabas, Aklan. Clearing and alleged excavation started on April 1, 2009 even before the said area is reclassified from an agricultural to industrial land on April 6 without any publication in the newspaper. /MP