BSP Reviews Aklan’s Request To Stay Its Proposed Office Transfer

The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is reviewing the stand of the Aklan provincial government opposing the plan of the said institution to transfer its office from this town to Roxas City, Capiz.

Vicky Ramos, co-chair of the Provincial Tourism Council, said she has submitted all the documents to the BSP Central Office as requested by its management.

Aklan Governor Carlito S. Marquez requested Ms. Ramos to head the negotiation with the BSP asking for the retention of its office in Kalibo. The Aklan provincial government along with the Aklan Bankers Association has earlier registered its strong opposition to the planned transfer of the BSP office to Roxas City.

Report said, the BSP Central Office has already purchased a lot in Capiz for the construction of its building. Ramos however said the Aklan provincial government was not consulted with regard to the said BSP’s plan of transfer.

"We are now waiting for the result of the review of the BSP. We hope that they will reconsider their decision," said Ramos.

The Aklan provincial government had registered their opposition because of fear that the strong investment tourism climate in Boracay would melt down if the BSP will transfer their office to another province.

It was learned that the documents submitted to the central office included the appeal for the BSP office retention by the Aklan Ati-Atihan Chamber of Commerce and Industry-Kalibo, among a number of organizations.

The Sangguniang Bayan of Kalibo and the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Aklan had also passed and submitted its respective resolutions urging the BSP to stop its proposed transfer to Roxas City. (PNA) /MP

Campaign VS. Use of ‘Wang-Wang’ Now in Antique

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) operation against "wang-wang" (siren) is now in Antique with 15 personnel deployed to flag down transportation that have exceptional or startling sound.

LTO Regional Office 6 Operations Division Chief Sim Robles said that their 15 personnel are now operating around Panay island, in coordination with the highway patrol, to apprehend vehicles that have sirens and horns as mandated in Presidential Decree 96.

Pres. Benigno Aquino stressed the prohibition of "wang-wang" in his inaugural speech.

Vehicle owners apprehended by the LTO for the first offense are being listed down with their gadgets being confiscated. But for the second offense, the violator is meted with P15,000 fine.

Robles added that their operation is not only for "wang-wang" though but for all other violations like the use of seat belt and helmet by drivers. (PNA) /MP

“Purging” Theory In Baldomero Deflects Blame Against Military

by Marco Valbuena

The Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) last week said the "internal purging" spin now being floated by the military and police officials with regard to the killing last Monday, July 5 of Bayan Muna Aklan coordinator and Lezo town councilor Fernando Baldomero "is meant to deflect the blame for the murder from the fascist military and security agents of the reactionary state."

"Because of the widepread indignation over the killing, the AFP is now trying to shift the blame for the killings of activists to the activists themselves," said the CPP. Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) spokesman Brig. Gen. Jose Mabanta this week complained that the military has become the easy usual target for blame in such cases. He retorted that communists or even the militants themselves could be behind the killing.

"Baldomero is a dedicated social activist and outstanding servant of the people. His killing is a big loss to the toiling masses and the movement for national freedom and democracy," said the CPP. "He is well loved by the people of Lezo. The revolutionary forces continued to regard Baldomero highly even after he decided to shift to the open, legal arena of struggle since his release from detention in 1994."

"The AFP and its henchmen in the RPA-ABB have long wanted to do away with Baldomero who has consistently served the people’s national democratic aspirations," said the CPP. "He performed his duties in the local parliamentary struggle just as ardently and effectively as he did in the armed struggle before his detention. But his shift to the legal and parliamentary struggle made him an open target of the fascist agents of the reactionary state, the only ones with the motive to kill the likes of him." Baldomero was rearrested by the military in 2004 and detained for three months.

Alston’s Report

The CPP expressed that "It is through such psywar spins as ‘internal cleansing’ or ‘communist purging’ that the military and police try to cover up the extrajudicial killings, abductions and other attacks perpetrated by state armed agents against the open, legal cause-oriented activists and organizations which they consider as ‘enemies of the state’."

"Such psywar spins have been thoroughly disproven and dis-credited," the CPP stated further, pointing to investigations in 2007 by the United Nations Human Rights Commission (UNHRC) headed by Extrajudicial Killings Special Rapporteur Philip Alston which concluded that such killings have actually been the handiwork of state forces. Alston’s report pointed to the organic connection between the campaign of vilification by the government and military against progressive activist groups and the killings perpetrated against their ranks.

The CPP described as "lame and inadequate" Aquino’s order to the Philippine National Police to investigate the killing of Baldomero. "Putting a stop to the extrajudicial killings requires an overhaul of the very framework of the goverment’s military and security forces in carrying out their counter revolutionary war, something that Aquino has failed to do."

The CPP forewarned Aquino that, "ultimately, he himself will be blamed for the killings. His failure to countermand the AFP’s fascist terror tactics-cum-vilification campaign against activists, progressive groups and movements constitutes implicit support to the military’s fascist reign of impunity." /MP

EDITORIAL

Extra Judicial Killing Victim?

At about 6:30 o’clock in the morning, Monday, July 5 in Estancia, Kalibo, Fernando Baldomero and his 12 years old son were in front of their house. Baldomero is about to ride his motorcycle to conduct his son to school in Poblacion, Kalibo.

However, their trip was aborted by two men riding in a motorcycle. The two men suddenly stopped by the side of Baldomero, poked a gun on Baldomero and shot him. They did not harm his son. After Baldomero fall to the ground, the two men left.

Police investigation revealed, the police recovered three (3) empty shells from a 45 caliber gun were recovered at the crime scene. Baldomero was brought to the hospital who was confirmed dead caused by two gun shot wounds on his head and neck. P0.5 million reward is offered to anyone who can provide information leading to the arrest of the suspects.

Early this year, there was an attempt made on Baldomero’s life. A hand grenade was thrown in his house in Barangay Sta. Cruz Bigaa, Lezo.

Baldomero is a member of the SB of Lezo, Aklan at the time of his death. He was re-elected to his second term during the May 10 local election. He won the election under the Liberal Party along with the re-elected Lezo Mayor Victor Fernandez and others . Baldomero was also provincial coordinator of the Makabayan coalition in Aklan at the time of his death. He was also provincial coordinator of "Bayan Muna" in Aklan.

Baldomero’s assassination followed after five days of assumption to duty of President Noynoy Aquino who vowed to totally stop judicial killings. Baldomero is the second victim after a journalist was killed in Tabuk City, Kalinga.

Baldomero’s death resulted to several reactions. Renato Reyes, secretary general of "Bayan Muna" con-demned the killing. He asked President Aquino to "use the full force of the law to arrest the perpetrators. "Baldomero’s death was banner headlines in national newspapers, radio, television and world wide website for a few days.

Bayan Muna Party List Rep. Teddy Casiño, Mr. Satur Ocampo, Dept. of Justice and NBI representatives came to Aklan to investigate the cause of Baldomero’s death.
Who Are The Culprits?

The common first is impression from the military. Baldomero used to be one of the top leaders of leftist group. He was accused of several cases in court he allegedly committed. But that was several years ago. All the accusations filed against Baldomero were dismissed for some reasons like the insufficiency of evidence.

Baldomero has returned to the folds of the law. He operated his own business for his livelihood. He was elected barangay official of his barangay. He was elected member of Lezo SB in May 2007 elections and re-elected on May 10, 2010 local election.

The investigating agencies may extend its coverage of investigation outside of the military, his former leftist comrades, and victims of the leftist group.

The investigators may include matters like 1. how did Baldomero conduct his election campaign in the last election? 2. Who are his allies until his death? and 3. who are his political opponents? Investigators on the matter most expand its area of inquiry in the broad spectrum of the population. Baldomero is no saint. He must have stepped on someone’s foot, or his death is a step on his foot?

The way Baldomero died projected the Province of Aklan via sunset story, a sad one that stained the cleanliness of Aklan. Baldomero‘s death is a great challenge to the police, the NBI and other agencies to solve a crime or crimes.

Baldomero’s death is not a "Wang Wang" matter. It is a violent death that runs deep in the hearts and minds of men, women and the community. It is a challenge to the justice system to re-establish, maintain, and sustain human rights in every person. /MP

Entrepreneurial Farmer

Ambrosio R. Villorente

Queer Bird

It was 7:10 in the evening, Thursday, July 1, 2010. A Cebu Pacific plane Flight No. 346 for Kalibo – Manila was about to take off at the Kalibo International Airport (KIA). It was a propeller type plane of 70 passenger capacity.

The plane was at the south west end of the runway. It has gained speed, was about to gain elevation. But no, for suddenly, the pilot applied his foot hardly on the brake. The plane jerked, the passengers were calm.

I noticed the plane was taxing back to the tarmac of KIA. I inquired with the cabin attendant if there is any trouble. She smiled as if to give safe assurance and said, "the pilot will inform us what happened when the plane is in a full stop".

True. As the plane stopped, the pilot announced, "A bird crushed at the windshield of the plane. We went back and stopped to check if there is any damage to the plane for our security."

The passengers were requested to disembark as the plane crew will check for any damage to it. After the check up, they found the windshield was splashed with blood, the plane has no damage, no crack.

Airport personnel who looked for the bird which crushed the windshield of the plane saw a big owl which body was badly mangled.

It might have come from either Tigayon Hill. Mangrove Eco Park in Kalibo or Magubinlod Hill, Maybuaya Hill, or Manduyog Hill in Banga.

THE OWL

The owl usually hunts at night. It is a nocturnal bird. It is hardy as it can adapt to desert, mountainous or swampy terrain. It migrates only in short distances.

Owls are found in all countries. But it is disappearing in the Philippines. And that incident with Cebu Pacific plane in the evening of July 1 deducted one owl of what remains in Aklan.

Owls range from small or six inch long body. It is a fierce bird of more than two (2) feet long. It can take over an eagle’s nest. It is also insect eater.

Do you believe something superstitious about owls? In some countries, the owl is the object of quaint superstitions. Many think the owl is so uncanny as it hides and sleeps at daytime and comes out at night.

Some believes that the call of an owl near a house is deemed to be a sign of death to one of the house occupants. In England, people prevent the omen by turning their pockets inside out.

But the owl is useful to man. It is effective for biological control against pests of farm crops.

When an owl comes near a house, it will feed itself with mice and rats and other insect pests.

OWL SPECIES

There are about 300 species of owls in the world. All owls are carnivorous, as it has sharp talons and strongly hooked bills.

The owls have large eyes, able to register the faintest light rays, necessary for birds that hunt at night.

The notion that owls cannot see during the day is false, for owls can see very well in the daytime. Hawk owl and snowy owl hunt regularly during the day. Owl is also very keen in hearing. The ears open through small apertures covered and protected by stiffened feathers below and behind the eye.

The owls cry startles small animals into revealing their locations. The slightest rustle in the leaves or grass, the owl hears it which swoops down on its prey noiselessly.

The owl is called "flying cat" of the world. It feeds on rodents which makes the birds very useful to man.

If there are only enough owls in Aklan, there is no need to buy rodents against the rats. Owls will eat them. /MP

Crafting Harmonious Legislative/Executive Relation *

* Response of Vice Governor Gabrielle V. Calizo-Quimpo to the

Executive Priority Thrusts of Aklan.

Hon. Gov. Carlito S. Marquez, who started his third and final term as provincial chief executive; Honorables Selwyn C. Ibarreta, Gerick M. Templonuevo, Nemesio P. Neron, Daisy S. Briones, Jean O. Rodriguez, and Rodson F. Mayor, welcome back and congratulations to all of you who gained the extended mandate of our people; welcome honorables Jose Enrique Miraflores, Phoebe Clarice Cabagnot, Victor M. Garcia and Raymar A. Rebaldo.

We extend our open arms to embrace you as part of the SP family. Of course, the Hon. Teody M. Masangya, Sr. and the Hon. Jun Rey I. Tordecillas have to stay put until their successors have been elected and duly qualified; for the Hon. Plaridel M. Morania, Hon. Jose S. Yap, the Hon. Ramon S. Gelito and the Hon. Wilbert Ariel I. Igoy, welcome to the four of you just for this morning as you have all gone out of this chamber.

But we are still holding the four of you today as we will be paying our final tribute to you as expression of gratitude for your very valuable service to this institution and our people; my everdearest friends in the Aklan Media, ladies and gentlemen.

To Gov. Marquez, please accept our sincere thanks for gracing with your presence and your much awaited presentation in this inaugural session of the new Sangguniang Panlalawigan composed of four newcomer-members and the reelected ones. Since my assumption in 2007 as regular presiding officer of this August body, we made it a point that you be invited to provide the honorable members of this institution the general framework of gover-nance and priorities which may need legislative authorization and or appropriate statutory action for the next three years. In effect, and in many ways, we will be harmonizing the movement and direction of both the local executive and legislative departments.

I was not able to prepare appropriate and specific response to your presentation, as we only received the copies of it this morning, but rest assured that the presiding officer and her colleagues in this chamber had intently listened to your program and strategy which will certainly guide us in the daily grind of the legislative mill in this 2010 – 2013 Sangguniang Panlalawigan. Your presentation will form part of our official records, so that from time to time be made as reference materials for future deliberation of this chamber.

I would like to think, and the records of this body will bear me out, that since my assumption as regular presiding officer in 2007, and with the cooperation of my colleagues, this chamber has never taken the position of an obstructionist institution. Rather, it has always placed itself in a position of being a catalyzer and a team builder which will always push towards final consummation of provincial programs and projects initiated by the provincial governor and designed for the greater welfare of Aklan and Aklanons. This has been true in the speedy review of the executive annual budgets of the province and their passage and enactments on or before statutory deadlines.

This has been true in the various enactments of the past chamber of resolutions authorizing the governor to enter into contracts of loan to generate funds from outside sources to finance much needed programs of the provincial government that cannot be funded for locally-generated revenues. To cite some, this August body, without too much hassle, though perused and incised meticulously, has done it in our fund generation, for hospital infrastructure and equipment, school of nursing facilities, program automation, jetty port and terminal facilities development, sports facilities among others.

This chamber, too had been very liberal, though indispensably critical, in granting request for authority to enter into agreements with national government entities and agencies in the implementation of social, economic and infrastructure programs needed by our people.

Likewise, we, too, had been very cooperative to the executive’s initiatives in upgrading our province’s outdated tax and revenue base, creation of offices and plantilla positions through appropriate passage and enactment of corres-ponding ordinances. And even, we have taken the cudgels to ensure the passage of landmark legislations like the Environment Code of Aklan, the Aklan Tourism Code, Aklan Children’s Code and the Aklan Investment Incentive Code.

I am sure that in this new set of provincial legislature, the same path shall be trudged by this chamber as far as dexecutive–legislative cooperation is concerned. That is why I always advocate for a permanent framework for this collaboration – the executive – legislative agenda. (I) am hopeful that the secretariat and the executive’s PPDO can sit together early and initiate the crafting of this vital document, a substantial omission noted by the evaluators for the outstanding local govern-ment units from the region.

I think I have also to mention the concept of a unified political leadership in this province which greatly helped cement productive executive – legislative collaboration in our provincial government, (the) main reason why when the concept of a united coalition was brought up, without much hesitation, I joined the ranks.

A new era has unfolded …in the sphere of national governance with the assumption of President Noynoy Aquino and Vice President Jejomar Binay into office.

A new era is also dawning in this chamber with the entry of the young blood or the new generation of politicians to this August body as local legislators, three are former Governor’s children: Joen, former Governor Miraflores’ son; Neng, former Governor Cabagnot’s daughter; Victor, former Governor Garcia’s son, and Raymar A. Rebaldo, also the grandson of Emiliano Acevedo, member of the judiciary, former mayor of Kalibo, former assemblyman and former governor of Capiz when Aklan was part of it.
I am certain that all these entire four young legislator(s) have been exercised with the eight motivation and values critically important to become honest and effective public servant following the tradition of their parents and their forefathers.

Hon. Gov., your honors, as the presiding officer of the SP, I look forward to a harmonious, effective and happy working relationship with and in this chamber.

Thank you very much and great new beginning to all of us! /MP

Aklan SP 2010–2013 Members

The 2010 – 2013 Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) of Aklan has adopted the Internal Rules of Procedure. It just differs very slightly with that of 2007 – 2010.

Among the revisions are the changes in the session day from Thursday to Wednesday of each week.

The 21 standing committees of the 2007 – 2010 SP were reduced to only 20. The Peace and Order and Disaster Preparedness committees were merged into one.

The majority party members are Hon. Jose Enrique Miraflores, Hon. Selwyn Ibarreta, Hon. Gerick M. Templonuevo, Hon. Nemesio P. Neron, Hon. Daisy S. Briones, Hon. Jean O. Rodriguez, and Hon. Rodson F. Mayor.

Identified with the minority are Hon. Phoebe Clarice Cabagnot, Hon. Raymar A. Rebaldo, and Hon. Victor M. Garcia.

Sectoral Rep-resentatives Jun Rey I. Tordecillas of the SK federation and Teody M. Masangya, Sr. of the Liga ng mga Barangay are also identified with the majority party.

Vice Governor Gabrielle V. Calizo-Quimpo is the presiding officer of the SP.

The committees are chaired as follows: Hon. Selwyn Ibarreta-Appro-priations, Budget and Finance and Ways and Means, and Laws, Rules and Ordinances; Hon. Teody M. Masangya, Sr. – Brgy. Affairs; Hon. Nemesio P. Neron – Cooperatives, Food, Agriculture And Environ-mental Protection; and Disaster Preparedness and Peace and Order; Hon. Rodson F. Mayor – Education, Culture, Science and Technology; and Energy, Public Utilities, Transportation, and Facilities;

Hon. Daisy S. Briones – Games and Amuse-ment; and Women and Family Welfare; Hon. Jose Enrique Miraflores – Good Government and Public Accountability; and Tourism, Trade, Industry, and Commerce; Hon. Jean O. Rodriguez – Health and Social Service, and Human Rights; Hon. Gerick M. Templonuevo – Human Resource; and Public Works, Housing, and Urban Relocation; Hon. Raymar A. Rebaldo – Internal Ethics, Privileges, and Discipline, and Local Government; Hon. Phoebe Clarice L. Cabagnot – Labor and Employment; Hon. Victor Manuel M. Garcia – Oversight; and Hon. Jun Rey I. Tordecillas – Youth and Sports Development. /MP

Impractical and Unsustainable Dredging

by ERNESTO T. SOLIDUM

Mitigation of La Niña phenomenon, disaster preparedness and current status of Aklan river dredging preparedness and current status of Aklan river dredging project were topics during July 5, 2010 presscon held at Eco tourism park in New Buswang. Guests were Atty. Allen S. Quimpo, Exec. Director, Aklan Rivers Development Council (ARDC); Mr. Pete Ruiz, Action Officer, Aklan Provincial Disaster Coordinating Council, (APDCC); Engr. Victory Fernandez, PEO; Engr. Lenard Sta. Maria, Resident Engr. Repair and Rehabilitation Reg’l. DPWH; and Engr. Roger M. Esto, PPDO.

Atty. Quimpo revealed that the La Niña is upon us and mitigating measures must be insured against an estimated 24 tropical depressions to pass until the end of this year. From the lessons learned from typhoon Frank, we are adopting the Albay Public Safety & Emergency Approach that focuses on zero casualty and quick reaction group.

Mitigating measures, according to Mr. Ruiz, are embodied in a 2005-2015 long range plan that includes institution of disaster preparedness in the event of typhoon, flood, earthquake and other calamities. SOP protocol requires that APDCC provides accurate information to all mass media outlet at the onset of Typhoon Signal No. I. A Provincial Quick Reaction group shall be mobilized at ABL Sports Complex to respond to any call for emergency assistance.

An important component of the plan is early detection and prevention. A zero hazard map pinpoints potential environmental hazards like flood prone, landslide and earthquake fault line areas. Earlier, four rain gauges have been installed in Altavas, Libacao, Ibajay and Goding Ramos Park, Kalibo, Mr. Ruiz added.

Engr. Esto as Action Officer of ARDC revealed that profiling of Aklan River meandering some 50 kilometers from Dalagsa-an, Libacao to Kalibo’s delta has been completed. However, concentration of JICA fund assistance in the amount of P1 billion starts from Kalibo delta (Bakhao Norte) to Linabuan Norte or (9) kilometers.

The Aklan Provincial government has initially committed P5 million and another P100 million for the purchase of dredging equipment in order to accelerate flood mitigation efforts.

With the equipment, the target of the Provincial Engineer’s Office is to excavate 10,000 cubic meters upstream of the Kalibo bridge says Engr. Fernandez.

Meanwhile, Engr. Sta. Maria says that the P95.8 million dredging project undertaken by IBC Joint Venture is 27.0 percent completed as of June 25, 2010. This is based on 50,000 cubic meter removal of sand and gravel from Aklan riverbed out of a total target of 185,000. The nature of work consists of widening 300-600 meters and depth of 1.5 – 2.0 meters. Actual work began on April 9, 2010 and expected to end seven months later. The rated capacity of dredging equipment is 1000–1500 cubic meters per day.

The release of P100 million for dredging/flood control project Aklan river out of P1.0 billion estimated cost appears very inadequate to accomplish the objective of ARDC. Huge funding outlay is required in the dredging operation prior to building concrete embankments of three (3) kilometers. The Kalibo and Numancia sides dredging of the river appears Herculean job if not impossible. This is based on reality with the change of new administration and limited of fund.

Obviously, the alterative proposal of Atty. Quimpo is to undertake massive reforestation program in the uplands managed by NGO’s like the Kalibo Save the Mangrove Assn. The project is very practical and sustainable. Indeed, while the dredging work covers a year, a single flood occurrence may wipe out physical improvements in just a day. Moreover, there are more or less two dozen typhoons a year which may visit although not all are very destructive. Bottomline: we are just blowing in the wind.

Typhoon Frank exacted 51 Aklanon lives two years ago. If APDCC is targeting zero human lives casualty this year, it must implement contingency measure by removing dwelling units in or near flood prone areas. It should be noted that LGU Kalibo has enacted an ordinance delineating 35 meters from Aklan River in C. Laserna St. as pullback. This ordinance has never been implemented. Should the worse happen, must APDCC be blamed or LGU Kalibo? If APDCC is ineffective because of RA 7160 or Local Auto-nomy Code then what is its real function? /MP

Aklan’s Priority Thrusts For 2010 – 2013

by AKLAN GOV. CARLITO S. MARQUEZ

May we thank the Honorable Sangguniang Panlalawigan, Vice Gov. Gabrielle V. Calizo-Quimpo, for this opportunity to present our administration’s programs and priority thrusts or the three years of our new term and, thereby, apprise the honorable body of the legislative support that we will need.

As I have said, declared, time and again, in my state of the province addresses and other pronouncements, I had never lacked the support of the Sangguniang Panla-lawigan. The resolutions and ordinances that I had requested may have passed the strictest scrutiny, as they should rightfully be. They may have gone thru the most heated debates, as they should appropriately be. But always, over and above all considerations, the best interest of the province always came out the winner.

For this, I thank our Sangguniang Panlalawigan, during my first and second terms. And I see no reason why I cannot thank, in advance, the new members of this honorable body who shall be sitting in sessions to be held from this year to 2013.

This morning, I am very touched by the honor of being fetched from the governor’s office and escorted all the way to this session hall by Hon. Jose Enrique Miraflores, Hon. Phoebe Clarice Cabagnot, Hon. Rodson Mayor, and Hon. Daisy Briones. I saw a symbolism in the composition of the group. Equal representation, the young and the old, the women and the men, the neophytes and the veterans, and maybe, the idealists and the pragmatists.

On June 15, 2010, our Provincial Development Investment Program or PDIP, together with those of seven other provinces, the first ones to complete said document, was presented by our provincial planning and development office for review by the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB). With a few minor corrections, our PDIP shall soon be finalized.

Let me thank our PPDO for another accomplishment and let me acknowledge the labor of love by former senior board member Selwyn Ibarreta, who had religiously worked with the provincial technical working group, the PDIP committee, tasked to formulate the document.

As declared in my foreword the PDIP is "another vital document that formalizes and ranks programs, projects, and activities identified in our provincial development and physical framework plan (PDPFP) and matches the prioritized project list with the investment capacity of the province in an interactive manner" and that "it will enable us to synchronize our priorities with national and regional plans."

May I, therefore, respectfully submit to the honorable body excerpts for our PDIP particularly the enumeration of our proposed plans and programs for the three-year period of my incumbency from 2010 – 2013.

These programs which duration ranges from three to six years and shall be completed in 2013, had been categorized by sectors, namely a. Infrastructure, b. Economic, c. Social, d. Environmental Manage-ment, and e. Local administration and management.

There are a total of 112 identified programs under these five sectors. By policy of integration, they are all interrelated and mutually supportive.

For instance, our concrete artificial reef projects at various barangays are not only a component of Fishery Resource Enhancement Program but are wave breakers under our shoreline protection efforts and a poverty alleviation strategy as more catch means more income for our fisherfolk, and better nutrition and health. In other words, it is an infrastructure (sector), that has social (sector), environmental (sector), and economic (sector) benefits.

Thru the maze of these interconnected programs, let me cite a few of our pet projects.

In agriculture, we have our hybridization program under which we propose to expand the present 1,000 hectares to 1,500 in 2011, 2,000 in 2012, and 2,500 hectares in 2013. Hybrid rice production of 180 to 200 cavans per hectare against inbred rice’s only 80 to 100 should not be the only attraction for our rice farmers to shift to hybrid. We have this P10,000 per hectare assistance payable under easy terms.

With the success of our first LAMBAKLAD project located at Baybay, Makato we propose more, initially at Mabilo, New Washington.

The Baybay Lambaklad in less than two months of operation had a net income of P358,986.88. And under a sharing scheme, the provincial government’s 45 percent was P161,544; fisherfolks manning the lambaklad for its 40 percent earned P143,594; the Makato fisherfolks multi-purpose cooperative with 5 percent had P17,949.

We also propose to expand our high-value crops-abaca, corn, mango production programs, even as we continue to pursue the modernization of agriculture with the integrated pest management, modified rapid composting, palayaman kabuhayan, and other agricultural programs.

You will note the seemingly endless construc-tion activities going on at the provincial capitol compound. Repair and renovation of old buildings and the construction of a new one. Part of this building program shall be the construction of what we call the legislative building. The least we can do for our Sangguniang Panlalawigan is the provision of roomier home to accommodate individual offices for our SP members.

In tourism, we propose the repair and rehabilitation of the Gov. Corazon L. Cabagnot Tourism and Training Center, the improvement of the Caticlan and Cagban Jetty Ports, the Marina project under which we will undertake the reclamation of the Caticlan foreshore, and many other programs designed to maximize benefits from our tourism industry whose revenues can provide us the means to fight poverty.

But the bottomline underpinning all these wide-ranging, encompassing programs is cheap, reliable, and steady power supply. Electricity.

I must thank the honorable body for their recent endorsement of the biomass plant project of ASEA One Power Corporation.

This is in line with Republic Act 9513, An Act Promoting the Development, Utilization, and Commercialization of Renewable Energy Resources. Its declared policies are to accelerate the exploration and development of renewable resources such as, but not limited to, biomass, solar, wind, hydro, geothermal and ocean energy sources, including hybrids systems to achieve energy self-reliance through the adaptation of sustainable energy development strategies to reduce he country’s dependence on fossil fuels and thereby minimize the country’s exposure to price fluctuations in the international market, the effects of which spiral down to almost all sectors of the economy; to increase the utilization of renewable energy by institutionalizing the development of national and local capabilities in the use of renewable energy systems, and promoting its efficient and cost-effective commercial application by providing fiscal and non-fiscal incentives; to encourage the development and utilization of renewable energy resources as tools to effectively prevent or reduce harmful emissions and thereby balance the goals of economic growth and development with the protection of health and the environment; and establish the necessary infrastructure and mechanism to carry out the mandates specified in this act and other existing laws.

At stake here are not only our dreams of economic prosperity for Aklan but the very survival of mankind. Climate change, the threats of global warming and extreme weathers are real. Another typhoon Frank and the economic gains that we have made in so many years will come to naught. We will be back to square one. Zero. And this holds true with the rest of the country and the world.

I propose, therefore, that we revisit our investment and incentives code and focus on, prioritize, power generation through renewable energy resources as specified by Republic Act 9513. Section 294 of the local government code provides the incentive of 80 percent of earnings derived from the development of such renewable energy resources being applied solely to lower the cost of electricity in the local government unit where such plant or facility is located.

It is reassuring to note that, already, projects using our abundant renewable energy resources are at various stages of implementation.

In Banga, we have Asea One Power’s 12 MW Biomass Plant; in Libacao, Sunwest’s Mini Hydro-power plants that can generate 20 MW; in Madalag, Oriental Energy’s 18 MW hydropower facility; and in Nabas, the 18 MW wind power projects.

We owe it to ourselves to provide full support and commitment to these projects that can provide us cheap and reliable energy.

And in line with this power generation objective is the massive planting of trees which not only insure the preservation of our watersheds but also absorb carbon dioxide emissions.

These are the development programs for which the executive department may need legislative support.

Again, may I thank the honorable body for their cooperation? I know for certain that though we may differ in our priorities, vary in our development strategies, disagree in our political beliefs, but always, the welfare of Aklan and the Aklanons will be over and above this consideration.

Thank you. /MP

Reason & Concern

by Ronquillo C. Tolentino

Looking Back At Bar Matter No. 2012

It was not until I read in the newspaper on June 24, 2010 issue that lawyers groups in Cebu are opposed to Bar Matter No. 2012 or Mandatory Legal Aid Service.

Bar Matter No. 2012 shall be implemented by the Supreme Court this year.

In retrospect, the Integrated Bar of the Philippines, (IBP) conducted a public forum on August 28, 2009 at the JBL Reyes Hall at the IBP Building at Ortigas Center, Pasig City. IBP chapter presidents, officers and members from nine (9) regions, and officers and members of the Philippine Bar Association attended.

Lawyers in attendance in the said forum expressed concern that the legal aid service should be voluntary manifesting that the Rule on Mandatory Legal Aid Service shall farther encourage litigation and clog court dockets.

The view of Director E. (Leo) D. Battad of the Office of Legal Aid, College of Law, UP needs serious thought when he emphasized that legal aid should only be voluntary because free legal aid cannot be legislated. Battad further said that to make legal aid mandatory would create anti-poor sentiments if not even ambulance chasing.

Dean Amado Valdez of the College of Law, University of the East posits that if legal aid is mandatory, it must be qualitative and not quantitative in nature. Valdez clarifies that when he speaks of qualitative, he speaks of what kind of values we want to reform or to introduce to society. Legal aid must be towards changing attitude of people. Valdez added that mandatory legal aid services must be limited to lawyers who just graduated and passed the bar and made mandatory within the same time frame of five years.

The ASEAN Law Association of the Philippines advocates for the abolition of the Rule on Mandatory Legal Aid as it fails to provide an inexpensive procedure and therefore inconsistent with the requirements set forth in Sec. 5, Par. 5, Article Vlll of the Constitution and is void for violation of the equal protection clause under Sec. 1 of Article III of the Constitution by creating classifications, without substantial distinction, within the legal profession.

The Philippine Bar Association’s position considers the Rule to spawn more litigation which would inevitably decelerate the resolution of cases. "It will force each practicing lawyer to find indigent or pauper litigants to pursue actions or give premium on the practice of soliciting clients and cases. It also compels lawyers to practice civil or criminal cases even if their specialization are in tax or corporate cases and, therefore, will become easy prey for litigation practitioners much to the prejudice of the indigent clients", the Philippine Bar Association added.

Atty. Marven B. Daquilanea, president of the IBP Iloilo chapter has this to say: "Our idea is that we should remove the monetary penalty as a substitute for non-compliance. In order to dispel the impression that this is just a mercenary mechanism to augment the IBP legal aid program, we believe that if we incur the penalty, we still have to perform the unperformed service so that we will encourage everybody to comply."

Lawyers are consulted by the national IBP on their views and opinions through written or text messages. When the Rule on Mandatory Legal Aid Service was being considered and upon knowing of lawyers being exempted for the Rule such as, but not limited to government employees and incumbent elective officials, lawyers who are not allowed to appear in court, supervising lawyers of students enrolled in law practice, lawyers of non-governmental organizations and peoples’ organization like to Free Legal Assistance Group who by the nature of their work already render free legal aid to indigent and pauper litigants or those who are employed in private sector but do not appear for in behalf of parties in court of law and quasi-judicial agencies.

I submitted my own proposal for exemption since Rule 7 of the Mandatory Continuing Legal Education (MCLE) or Bar Matter No. 850 has eleven (11) exemptions. 　　Although, as past Aklan IBP president, my proposal was not given serious thought by IBP National, I proposed that lawyers who have been at law practice for 30 consecutive years or who have reached 65 years old should be exempted.

To use the words of Atty. Tranquil Gervacio S. Salvador III, president of IBP Quezon City chapter, a private practitioner is already neck-deep with work. "Unlike government lawyers who work on 8-5 basis, the working hours of private practitioners are up to unholy hours. Unlike the government lawyers who work within the permanent office, the work of a private lawyer goes beyond every known geographical barrier." May I hasten to add that lawyers who are in practice for 30 years of active private law practice deserves a degree of relaxation, avoidance of other burdensome work.

It is not debatable that physical ailments oftentimes accompany old age more so when there are additional and physical burdens or obligations. The year for retirement of majority of government employees is 65 years old except policemen, military officers and men, and the Supreme Court justices and judges. My two cents worth of suggestion did not even merit scant attention.

The August 28, 2009 IBP public forum comments and recommen-dations, together with the inputs of the resource speakers were made the basis in formulating the draft implementing regulations which the IBP submitted to the Supreme Court for consideration and approval. I still retain the question of the IBP Cotabato chapter, thus: "Is it constitutional to compel lawyers to render free legal aid service under pain of deprivation of their license to practice?" /MP

Sugilanon Ni Tita Linda

Ni Tita Linda Belayro

Sobra Pa Sa Manggad

Adlaw nga Domingo, agahon pa hay una eon si Mercedes sa kilid it simbahan it Quiapo agod magbaligya imaw it bueak it Sampaguita. Bu-ot nana nga makatipon it abo ag naga kaigo nga kwarta agod may anang baeonon adlaw-adlaw. Ro iba hay ibakae it bueong para sa anang naga masakit nga Lola.

Isaeang adlaw, samtang naga hueat si Mercedes it manog bakae, may pumundo nga saeakyan. Pagbukas it pwertahan, nanaog ro isaeang ka eaeaki. Nagdaeagan si Mercedes paadto kana agod baligyaan it Sampaguita ro eaeaki. Matsa guin higop ro anang mata sa onga. Matsa may naga hutik kana nga magbakae it Sampaguita. Nagbo-oe imaw it sang libo nga pesos sa anang kahita. Binakae nana tanan it Sampaguita. Duro guid ro kaila ni Mercedes, kapin pa ay guin hatod imaw ko eaeaki sa andang baeay sakay sa kotse. Nagpakilaea imaw sa ginikanan it onga nga imaw hay si Rodrigo Villar.

Hakibot ro mga magueang. Raya ro eaeaki nga nagloko sa andang onga nga si Consuelo. Inaywan nana ro daeagang naga nabdos. Nag-uli imaw sa Manila tongod sa guin atake sa tagipusuon ro anang ina. Umpisa kato hay owa eon it binati sa binata, kay Rodrigo.

Busa guin onga ni Consuelo si Lina nga owa hitun-e kon siin eon ro anang ama. Tongod sa perming naga kasubo si Consuelo, habugtawan eang ko anang ina nga owa eon it kabuhi imaw. Haaywan sa pagtatap ko magueang si Mercedes.

Umpisa man nga guin kasae sanday Rodrigo ag ro anang asawa, permi eang sanda nga naga inaway tongod indi maka onga ro babaye. Habatian eon lang nana nga nagmunot sa ibang eaeaki ra asawa daea ro kagamitan sa baeay. Owa eon abi naga inuli si Rodrigo ngani pagusto it himos ag daehon ro mga igdaeapat sa pamaeay.

Halin kato, guin inusoy ni Rodrigo si Consuelo. Sa pagbuot it Diyos, nagkita ro mag ama. Guin daea ni Rodrigo si Mercedes ag anang lola sa anang baeay. Hakita nana nga mahawan eot-a ro anang baeay. Sa anang sobrang kalipay, owa nana guin baliha ro nadueang kagamitan tongod sobra pa sa manggad nga nakita nana ro anang onga. /MP

Aguason Is New Priest

Seminarian Anthony O. Aguason, 27, Grand Knight of College Council No. l3997 based at Sancta Maria Mater et Regina Seminarium (SMMRS) in Brgy. Cagay, Roxas City, was ordained deacon in a solemn and simple rites held at the SMMRS Chapel, June 29.

He was ordained by Most Rev. Onesimo C. Gordoncillo, D.D., archbishop of Capiz, who is also a Fourth Degree Knight.

The new ordained deacon is the son of spouses Felipe Aguason and Adelaida Onayan-Aguason of Brgy. Dumolog, Roxas City.

Soon after graduating from Dumolog elementary school and Dumolog high school　 in 2000 he entered the St. Pius X Seminary in Brgy. Lawa-an, Roxas City. In 200l he transferred to SMMRS where he finished Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy, cum laude and Moral Excellence Awardee in 2005.

The grand knight, thinking of God’s will and call, proceeded further to take up Theology at the same seminary where he graduated last March 20l0. He undertook a spiritual pastoral formation break from academic routine in 2008-2009 as requisite for graduation and ordination. Now, he is addressed not only as Worthy Grand Knight but as Rev. Anthony O Aguason.

The College Council No. l3997 was organized on November 7, 2002 with 32 members. It later remained inactive and suspended because most of its members who were all seminarians have graduated from the seminary. The KC District Deputy in coordination with the seminary authorities are helping reactivate the said council.

With more than l.8 million members, the Knights of Columbus is the world’s largest Catholic lay organization. It provides members and their families with volunteer opportunities in service to the Catholic Church, the community, families and young people. In 2009 the Knights of Columbus at all levels of the organization raised and distributed millions of dollars to charity and rendered millions of hours of volunteer services. /MP

DOTC Offers Zest Air: Fly Europe, Middle East Countries

The Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) has offered the management of Zest Airlines, Inc. to fly its fleet to Europe and Middle East countries.
DOTC Undersecretary for Civil Aviations, retired police Gen. Doroteo Reyes said that he has asked the management of the airline to service the said continents and bring them into the country.

The Zest Airlines is known in Kalibo, Aklan to have pioneered direct flights from Korea to Kalibo International Airport (KIA). Most of the passengers are bound for Boracay Island.

"The DOTC is very much appreciative for the Zest Air efforts in bringing tourists not only to Boracay Island but also to the entire country. I do hope they will consider our offer," Reyes said.

The DOTC for several years, has been negotiating with different airline companies abroad and has been encouraging them to bring tourists into the country.
Zest Airlines has bared that they are to operate in 20 local destinations, excluding the regional flights in Southeast Asia. (PNA)

No ‘Wang-Wang’ in Iloilo City

The improper use of "wang-wang" or sirens calling for an open street passage of any government or private official in Iloilo City is no longer allowed.

City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog was inspired by the inaugural speech of President Benigno Aquino III last week at the Quirino Grandstand, Manila.

Aquino stressed that equality will prevail under his administration as he mentioned that authorities should stop the improper use of sirens and blinkers.

Mabilog instructed policemen and the traffic enforcement unit not to allow the use of sirens ("wang-wang") of any vehicle, be it carrying a very important person (VIP). These vehicles must obey the traffic rules and regulations of the city", Mabilog pointed out. (PNA) /MP

EDITORIAL

Turn-over of Power

"Turn-over" is one of the rituals the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) introduced in all levels of the government of the Philippines to follow in the change of leadership.

Turn-over means the act or an instance of turning over things. In governance, it refers to the handing of power, functions, responsibilities, projects and plans by the outgoing group of leaders to the incoming group of leaders.

In the case of the President of the Philippines, Gloria M. Arroyo’s term ended on June 30. The incoming president Benigno Simeon "Noynoy" Aquino III who won the presidential election on May 10, 2010 will assume the presidency on June 30.

To effect the smooth turn over of power, functions, projects, programs, and responsibilities, two transition committees were formed. A transition committee for the outgoing president or Gloria Macapagal Arroyo and a Transition Committee for the incoming president or Noynoy Aquino.

The two committees conducted series of meetings to discuss and agreed on the details of the turn over ceremonies. The two committees agree for example the conduct of the turn over, the venue and other details of the ceremony.

In the provincial government of Aklan, no turn over took place. There is no change in the provincial leadership except some changes of membership in the Sangguniang Panlalawigan. However, under the leadership of Vice Governor Gabrielle V. Calizo-Quimpo, an orientation meeting was held for the incoming members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan.

In its inaugural session on July 1,Vice Governor Calizo – Quimpo has invited Gov. Carlito S. Marquez to present to the new set of SP members his program of priorities for the next three (3) years which will require legislative collaboration.

Gov. Marquez’s presentation to the SP will provide direction for the legislative mill in Aklan’s legislative body.

　
Aklan’s 17 Towns

How is the turn over proceedings in the 17 municipalities of Aklan? Leadership in several municipalities have not change except in the capital town of Kalibo, Malinao, Numancia, and Malay.

In the town of Altavas, is turn over of power, functions, and responsibilities necessary from a loving wife to her husband, the Refol couple? There is no turn over information received from that town.

In the municipality of Balete, is turn over which mantle of functions and responsibilities will be transferred from a good sister to a caring brother, the Calizo sister and brother.

In Batan, New Washington, Banga, Madalag, and Libacao, the Mayors are re-elected. In Western Aklan, Lezo, Makato, Tangalan, Ibajay, Nabas, and Buruanga, there is no change of leadership as all the mayors in these towns are re-elected.

There is no talk about turn over program in Malay as it has the new mayor, John P. Yap while the former Mayor Ciceron S. Cawaling is elected vice mayor.

The municipality of Malinao has a new mayor, former SB member Ariel Igoy and vice mayor, also a former SB member Josephine I. Iquiña. Maybe their turn over ceremony was simple.

In Numancia, the turn over ceremony went smoothly. A program was organized called "Pagtugyan". Pagtugyan means to entrust. It was held in the Social Hall, Numancia Town Bldg. at 2:30 in the afternoon, Tuesday, June 29.

The outgoing officials as well as the incoming officials were both in good spirit. The program started with a prayer led by Rev. Fr. Jose R. Relente. Vice Mayor Evangeline M. Ibabao welcomed those present. Mr. Jenny D. Destua of the DILG Aklan gave his message which dealt of the significance, intent and purpose of the occasion. This was followed with the introduction of the members of the local governance Transition Team.

Mayor Elverita T. Templonuevo, outgoing mayor delivered her turn over message. It was replete with her accomplishment for the last three years. She also provided some proposals to make Numancia a desirable place to do business and to live in.

Mayor Adolfo M. Iligan, graciously accepted what were turned over to him with his acceptance speech. The ceremonies ended with a community singing.

Political campaign was hot and bitter in Numancia. But election over, the people are warm and loving. They are ready to join hands in cooperation for a progressive Numancia, a place highly desirable to live in and to do business.

The invitation said, "I am among you as that serveth". (Luke 22:27)

How about other municipalities? In Banga, one day after election and their mayor was re-elected, he was again in search for a political opponent in the 2013 election. What a character!

How about the Ati Atihan and capital town of Kalibo? Kalibo should have lead the way even in the turn over program only. But the outgoing officials and the incoming officials were still bitter. They could have agreed even in the schedule of activities, but did not.

It appeared there was no transition teams that crafted, harmonized, and agreed on the joint turn-over ceremonies.

While Mayor William L. Lachica, vice mayor Madeline Regalado, and the members of the Kalibo Sangguniang Bayan members were holding their induction program at Magsaysay Park, Mayor Raymar A. Rebaldo held his turn over ceremonies in the Kalibo Municipal Hall, also at Magsaysay Park.

Mayor William Lachica was not available to accept what are turned over. In his absence, Atty. Julius Leonida, Mayor Lachica’s lawyer represented him.

Outgoing Mayor Raymar A. Rebaldo could have find other time to hold the turn over program in order for Mayor William Lachica to attend to accept the mantle of power and responsibilities as Mayor of Kalibo.

In the election of May 10, 2010, Lachica won it as Mayor of Kalibo. Today, he is not only the mayor of the people who voted him but the mayor of all Kalibonhons as well. /MP

Entrepreneurial Farmer

Ambrosio R. Villorente

Maming In Search of Opponent

"Magbueoligan kita, Mayor ANTONG Antonio T. Maming". This is a streamer placed in some conspicuous corners in Poblacion, Banga, Aklan.

Magbueoligan is an Aklanon term which means let us help or cooperate. "Kita" also means ‘We’. Hence, magbueoligan kita simply means let us cooperate with each other.

But how will Mayor Maming promote cooperation in his town? How will he get cooperation in his administration as Mayor of Banga?

The following day after his re-election as Municipal Mayor of Banga, he started searching for his opponent as Mayor of Banga in the next 2013 local election. In the afternoon of Tuesday, May 11, he invited me to join politics in Banga and be his opponent for mayor to which I politely declined. Since I rejected the invitation, Mayor Maming asked me to look for one person whom I would like to support for the position of the Mayor of Banga and be his worthy opponent. With that, I begged to leave.

DA Distributes Seeds Until August

The Department of Agriculture will distribute certified rice seeds until August in Western Visayas. This includes Aklan.

According to DA Asst. Regional Director Remelyn Recoter, Western Visayas is allotted 119,000 bags of certified palay seeds to be distributed until August 2010 under 50:50 scheme during the wet season planting.

The 50:50 scheme means the farmer pays 50 percent of the price of the seeds and the government pays 50 percent. Such that a sack of certified seeds which cost P1,200, the farmer only pays P600.00.

The farmer beneficiary must be included in the master list of agricultural technologist of the province. The allocation is one sack per hectare of rice paddy.

The rice seed distribution is now rapidly implemented in the provinces of Capiz, Guimaras, and Iloilo. When will the DA distribute the palay certified seeds in Aklan?

Bridges

In Iloilo, Antique and Capiz, they will inaugurate soon 17 new bridges. How many bridges did Aklan inaugurated? I heard that Iloilo is constructing bridges and the construction of rivers follows. Is this correct?

Aklan is traversed by many rivers but few bridges are constructed. How come? Aklan has only one Congressman while Iloilo has more plus some members of the President’s cabinet. Is the Gloria government of force and not of reason, fairness and justice?

Hopefully, with President Noynoy Aquino, and the three (3) congressmen including Party List Rep. Teodorico T. Haresco of Kasangga and Teddy Casiño of Bayan will get more development assistance it deserves. Moreover, Congressman Joeben T. Miraflores has pledged allegiance to the Liberal Party to enable himself to share more resources for development of Aklan.

Provincial Twin Program

Studying the pronouncement of Cong. Joeben T. Miraflores and Gov. Carlito S. Marquez, the twin program for agriculture and tourism remains their priority. They are ably supported by the Aklan Sangguniang Panlalawigan being presided by Vice Governor Gabrielle V. Calizo-Quimpo.

On their inaugural session on Thursday, July 1, Gov. Carlito S. Marquez is invited to present his executive agenda which will require legislative collaboration. It is also aimed to craft, harmonize, and synchronize executive legislative agenda for the next three years.

But what is the program in agriculture to support provincial tourism? Is provincial agriculture program geared to enable farmers strong participation in the tourist industry and enjoy the fruits of tourism?

Is the provincial tourist industry favorable to the majority of the Aklanons, specifically the farmers? Who profits most in Aklan Provincial Tourism?

In transportation, how many percent of the industry income is Aklanons’ share? In hotel and restaurants business, how much percent go to Aklan? In the supply of food, what is the volume produced locally sold to Boracay?

LGU Aklan may wish to review and conduct in-depth study of farmer participation in the supply of food for the tourists.

Aklan provincial government participates actively in the development of airport. Any problem, even minor problem, in Kalibo International Airport (KIA), the local government is often cited as culprit.

But how many percent of the income of the KIA is retained by the local government of Aklan?

Every passenger to a local destination is charged P40.00 each terminal fee, passengers going abroad pay P500.00 each and any plane which lands and parks in the airport is charged per parking of an undisclosed amount.

Civil Aeronautic Administration Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) must pay just share of its airport income to the LGU Aklan.

Aklan provincial government agriculture program must be designed to fulfill two main objectives. First, to produce enough high quality food supply for Aklanons, and second, to produce high quality agriculture products for tourists and visitors.

Observation tells that even flowers for local use and for visitors are imported. Chicken meat and eggs are inadequate for actual Aklanon demands and tourist’s needs are imported. There is inadequate fruits and vegetables supply so businessmen are forced to import from other provinces and even abroad.

These shortages must be addressed in the provincial agricultural programs, projects, and activities.

May the bright boys in the provincial planning and development office will soon come to their senses and recognize the need.

One Airport

For one thing, one airport is enough in Aklan and that is KIA. Why invest huge amount of money for the convenience of foreigners? That amount for the Caticlan Airport could as well be spent for the improvement of the Kalibo – Malay road.

In this, both Aklanons and visitors will enjoy the pleasure of passing on excellent road. Caticlan airport will only serve the foreigners and few Filipinos. The money spent for it will deprive the Filipinos the use of it. /MP

Fr. Relente Blesses Numancia Projects

Mayor Elverita T. Templonuevo with Rev. Fr. Jose R. Relente posing with town and Brgy. officials of Numancia after the blessing of the Numancia Bagsakan Center and Public Market Comfort Room.

Numancia town, under the outgoing leadership of Mayor Elverita T. Templonuevo held a series of blessings of some newly competed projects.

Blessed are the Numancia Bagsakan Center, Public Market Comfort Room, Pasalubong Center, Numancia Youth Tambayan Center, Cultural Stage, Covered Court, and Rizal Park.

The blessings were done by Rev. Fr. Jose R. Relente, parish priest of Numancia on Saturday morning, June 26.

The Bagsakan Center and Comfort Room are located inside the Numancia Public Market funded at P1 million from the Department of Agriculture.

The Pasalubong Center will serve as the display for sale of horticulture goods and processed foods of Numanciahanons specially produced for guests and visitors like the tourists. It is situated in the central part of Poblacion, Numancia.

The Cultural Stage, Covered Court, Youth Tambayan Center and Rizal Park are developments done in Numancia Town Plaza. It is a youth and adult persons friendly construc-ted to serve people in their spare time for recreation, sports, programs, and even for bonding.

According to outgoing Mayor Elverita Templonuevo, she raised P54.3 million from external sources during her term as Mayor. This money enabled her to implement those projects.

In 2007, the municipal income of Numancia was only P4,383,210. In 2009 it reached P10,398,690. The municipal revenues increased by 237 percent in three years under the watch of Mayor Templonuevo. /MP

Elected Tibyog Officials Take Oath

Aklan Provincial Governor Carlito S. Marquez is shown being sworn to office, by RTC Executive Judge Marietta Homena Valencia, for his third term as governor of Aklan. With him are his loving mother, his wife, children and other relatives.

Picture shows four members of the Aklan SP (Western) taking their Oath of Office before judge Marietta Homena Valencia who are Jose Enrique Miraflores, Selwyn Ibaretta, Phoebe Clarisse L. Cabagnot, and Gerick Templonuevo, partly hidden. At their back are their close relatives who witness the ceremonies.

In a mass oath taking ceremonies, the re-elected and elected officials belonging to Tibyog and United Leadership Coalition took their oath of office before Hon. Marietta J. Homena-Valencia, Executive Judge, Regional Trial Court, Kalibo, Aklan.

The oath taking ceremonies followed after the thanksgiving mass celebrated by Rev. Fr. Ulysses I. Dalida, Administrator of the Diocese of Kalibo. The mass oath taking ceremonies was held in the morning of Friday, June 25 at the ABL Memorial Sports Complex, Capitol Grounds, Kalibo.

The officials under the leadership of Gov. Carlito S. Marquez and Cong. Florencio T. Miraflores, the members of their respective families, friends and guests were welcomed by Hon. Jean O. Rodriguez, re-elected member of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (Eastern).

Those who took their oath of office first were the members of the Sangguniang Bayan from 17 towns who belong to Tibyog, the vice mayors followed and then the mayors.

After the officials from the municipal level, Vice Governor Gabrielle V. Calizo-Quimpo gave her message. The members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan then were sworn to office, followed by Vice Governor Gabrielle V. Calizo-Quimpo, Gov. Carlito S. Marquez, Congressman Florencio T. Miraflores, and finally Teodorico T. Haresco, Jr. of the "Kasangga" Party List representative.

In his inaugural speech, Gov. Marquez reviewed his accomplishments for the last six years and stressed what is his program of government in the next three years. He thanked the people of Aklan for their votes, trust and confidence and for their cooperation in his administration.

Cong. Miraflores assured the people of Aklan of his support for Aklan’s development. He cited his approaches to follow so that he can bring projects to Aklan. He pointed to his idea of being allies with other political parties such as the majority in order not to be left out. He thanked the Aklanons for electing him as Mayor of Ibajay, three term provincial governor and until his third term as congressman.

Miraflores especially acknowledged the trust and confidence bestowed to his family by voting his son as member (Western) of the SP, by voting his wife Mayor of Ibajay for another term and by voting his first cousin Teodorico T. Haresco, Jr., congressman under the Ang Kasangga Party List.

On his part, Cong. Haresco also thanked all Aklanons for voting Kasangga Party List where he is the first nominee. He announced his projects like in the provision of micro financing to start and operate small business. Haresco also announced the availability of 10 multicabs and ambulances for Aklan. /MP

‘RP Has Overtaken China, India As No. 1 Source of Immigrants’

by ALEX P. VIDAL

VANCOUVER – The Filipino community in British Columbia now "has strength in numbers and it is growing fast," Mayor Greg Robertson said in a speech during the 1st Maharlika Awards Philippine Independence Gala Night last June 19 at the Italian Cultural Center.

"And by many estimates, the Philippines has overtaken China and India as the number one source country for new immigrants."

He stressed that recently, the Vancouver Sun ran an in-depth four-part series looking at Filipinos in British Columbia where it featured Filipinos as "the third largest ethnic group in the province."

Clad in Filipino costume Barong Tagalog, the mayor said, "Filipinos are part of every facet of our city. Vancouver could not function without the contributions of Filipino-Canadians from our schools and hospitals to our banks and businesses and at City Hall."
Robertson hailed the Filipino Canadian pioneers honored in the inaugural awards night arranged by the Filipino-Canadian Cultural Heritage of British Columbia for "paving the way for newcomers and the younger generation to succeed."

"Their struggles and triumphs as immigrants to Canada are worthy of our respect and gratitude," he pointed out.

"I know that even with all the progress that has been achieved, there are still some challenges faced by the Filipino-Canadian community."

Robertson assured that " Canada is a welcoming and open place but we can still do a better job of helping newcomers maximize their skills and experience in the workforce. So that’s something we need to keep working on together."
　

‘SOMETHING’S HAPPENING’
　

Robertson observed that "something’s happening in the Filipino community, something exciting. The Filipino community was for many years fairly quiet…sometimes seen, but rarely heard."

"All that has changed," he quipped. "As tonight’s event shows, Filipinos have a strong voice and so much to be proud of across a wide spectrum of endeavors."

The mayor said, there are now elected officials of Filipino heritage – one at the municipal level and one at the provincial level – in British Columbia.

He said "he was lucky enough" to attend the picnic that took place in Slocan Park in relation to recent celebrations across the region of the 112th Philippine Independence Day.

Robertson described the events as "filled with people representing a wide variety of community organizations, church groups, local businesses, trade associations and the media."

He added: "I’m proud to be Mayor of a place that so many distinguished Filipinos now call home. Vancouver would not be the world-class, liveable city it is today without all of your contributions."

"I look forward to all your ideas and enthusiasm as we continue working together to make this great city of ours even better."

Meanwhile, Robertson lauded the event otherwise known as "Gawad Parangal sa Mga Dakilang Pilipino ng British Columbia" chairman of the board and Reyfort Media Group publisher Rey Fortaleza and his wife Cely for "assembling a local media empire that is becoming the source for Filipino news and entertainment in British Columbia ."

"They are entrepreneurs and leaders in the community and tonight they have turned their vision into reality with this event and the launch of the Philippine Summer Festival," he said. /MP

Sugilanon Ni Tita Linda

Ni Tita Linda Belayro

Ro Regalo It Bruha

Isaeang ka gamhanan nga bruha si Valka. Guina huptan nana ro perlas nga itom nga naga tao kana it gahum agod maga baylo ro anang dagway maskin anong klase.

Duro guid ro anang kaakig kat owa imaw hikangay sa bunyag it Prinsesa. Ro pitong ka mga diwata hay nag adto’t ana agod magtao it regalo. Ogaling, si Valka hay owa hikangay.

Ogaling ko gabii ngaron hay nag abot mat-a imaw nga naga lisik ro anang daywang mata. Guin tao nana ro anang regalo. Isaeang ka sumpa nga pagtuntong sa edad nga 18, ro prinsesa hay maga asawa it manog pangahoy. Maga onga pa sanda it kapid nga sawa ag amo.

Umpisa kato, gwardyado guid ro prinsesa ag guina kilaea kon sin-o ro anang mga amigo. Masubo guid ro prinsesa. Matsa sangka pispis nga naka kulong imaw sa hawla nga indi maka pagusto it eopad hasta mag edad it dise otso.

Isaeang adlaw, may umaging mangangahoy nga mayad mag imbento. Sakay imaw sa anang kariton. Abo guid nga mga kagamitan sa pag eaha ro anang daea. Naga linaha imaw ag ro hugom ko anang guina eaha hay naka abot sa palasyo. Guin ibog ro prinsesa busa, guin pabakae nana ro anang dama. Guin pina balik-balik nana ro dama ag owa guid imaw inayawi sa kanamit ko pagkaon. Pagkaaga, naga bantay eon man ro prinsesa sa manog pangahoy. Pag-abot ko manog pangahoy, sa uwa magbuhay, imaw guid ro nanaog sa kwarto ag nagbakae.

Guin bantayan nana ro eaeaki agod makilaea. Pagkakita nanda nga daywa, hadumduman nana ro sumpa ko bruha. Owa imaw makapugong sa anang kaugalingon, nag munot imaw sa eaeaki. Naduea ro prinsesa. Guin inusoy imaw. Sa abong naga usoy, idto imaw hakita sa baeay it manog pangahoy. Guin kasae ro daywa pagkatapos, idto sanda guin paestar sa palasyo. Owa mabuhayi, nag nabdos ro prinsesa ag nag onga.

Tama guid ro tugma ko bruha nga kapid nga sawa ag amo ro andang mga onga. Tongod sa kapid, masubo guid ro hari ag reyna. Sa kaeo-oy sa andang apo, guin patawag ro bruha sa palasyo. Nangayo it patawad ro hari ag reyna sa ngaean ko andang apo. Naghambae ro bruha nga dugo ko andang ama ag ina ro maka baylo kanda ag isaea ro dapat mamatay. Nag bulontad ro manog-kahoy nga ha-um nanang itao ro anang dugo. Naghambae man ro prinsesa nga haum man nanang ita-o ro anang kabuhi mabalik eang ro dagway ko anang mga onga.

Tongod sa kaeo-oy, guin bawi ko bruha ro anang sumpa. Paagi sa sang toeo nga dugo halin sa mag asawa, nga guina butang sa dahi ko kapid nga sawa ag amo, nahimo nga tawo, isaeang ka babaye ro sawa ag ro amo hay isaeang ka eaeaki ro amo.

Malipayon ro bilog nga palasyo. Umpisa kato, nangin bisita eon permi ro bruha sa palasyo. /MP

FIRST FILIPINO ELECTED TO LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY

Mable Elmore (New Democratic Party of British Columbia) is the first Filipino to run for office in the Provincial Government and elected. As member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) for Vancouver-Kensington on May 12, 2009, she serves as deputy opposition critic for Children, Family Development and Child Care. She is a second generation Filipino-Canadian who has been active in the peace movement and on immigrant, social justice, women’s and gay, lesbian and transgendered issues. Elmore, with Filipino journalist Alex P. Vidal, was given the "Maharlika Award" for government service during the Philippine Independence Gala Night 2010 last June 19 at the Italian Cultural Center in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. (Photo by Dean Guzman)

NPA’s Desperate Attack in Army’s Jamindan Detachment

by 1LT MARK ANDREW T. POSADAS

Major General Vicente M. Porto reminding members of the Cafgu Active Auxiliary in Aningalan Detachment, San Remegio, Antique of their role in safeguarding their communities thru vigilance and commitment to our mission. (3ID file photo)

Division Public Affairs Office, Camp Peralta, Jamindan, Capiz— Communist Terrorists believed to be under the command of Francisco Balois aka Tonying of the CPP-NPA’s Panay Island Central Front Committee attempted to attack an Army detachment in Jamindan, Capiz on June 25.

The detachment, situated in Barangay Santo Rosario, Jamindan is located approximately 17 kilometers from the 3rd Infantry Division’s Headquarters in Brgy Jaena Norte also in Jamindan and about 15 kilometers from the town of Tapaz. The Army detachment was attacked at around eight o’clock in the morning but due to the presence of mind of the detachment commander and his CAAs (Cafgu Active Auxiliary), they reacted quickly and routed the advancing communist terrorists. The firefight lasted 10 minutes as the rebels retreated after failing to engage our soldiers and CAA decisively in combat.

The detachment commander of Santo Rosario, Sgt Hernando De Guzman of the 12th Infantry (Cadre) Battalion, suffered a bullet wound on his left shoulder during the initial volley of fire. Despite being shot early in the fight, he valiantly led his CAAs to defend and to charge the attacking NPA. De Guzman was taken to Camp Peralta Station Hospital for treatment.

De Guzman said, "we saw there were only a few of them (rebels), around 10 armed men surrounding our base. Our Cafgus reacted quickly and we routed their advance. Furthermore, we chased them out." Pursuit operations by the 47th Infantry (Katapatan) Battalion are currently underway in the surrounding areas of Jamindan and Tapaz. "It was a brief firefight. We believed they either ran out of ammunition or evacuated their wounded and dead," de Guzman added.

It can be recalled that last June 13, a successful ambush was launched by your Army troopers against the same terrorist group wherein two blood-soaked satchels that concealed a landmine and subversive communist paraphernalia were found. "We believe that with the intense pressure of our Internal Security operations (ISO) in Central Panay, specifically in the areas of Tapaz-Calinog-Lambunao, they have resorted to a desperate move to distract us from flushing them out," said 1LT Mark Andrew T Posadas, information officer of the 3rd ID.

"The failure of their attack in Sto Rosario is a manifestation that they lack the manpower, firepower, and resources to launch full-scale offensive. This attack will not deter us from successfully accomplishing our mandated ISO mission. It gives us a clearer picture of the desperation of the NPA and their diminished capability in launching decisive tactical offensive against Government troops. /MP

Boracay To Get Electricity From Coal-fired Power Plant

Boracay Island resort will soon get a boost of its electricity requirement as the Aklan Electric Cooperative (AKELCO) plans to distribute coal-fired power to their consumers beginning next year.

Akelco is the exclusive power distributor in Aklan, including Pandan and Libertad, Antique, and in this resort island.

For several years, stakeholders in Boracay have been experiencing worsening power outages due to the diminishing electricity supply.

Chito Peralta, Akelco general manager said, "they are presently coordinating with the Panay Electric Cooperative (PECO) in Iloilo which earlier announced it would operate a 164-megawatt coal-fired power plant this September".

The coal fired power plant is being established in Dingle, Iloilo.

"We believe that PECO uses a cleaner technology for its coal-fired and it is safer for the consumption of Boracay island. We are currently negotiating with them for our possible buying of electricity for our consumption next year," Peralta revealed.

Akelco is currently getting power from the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines and with the Global Business Power Corporation (GBPC) which utilizes diesel power plant.

"What is good news for now is that we have rescinded the 20 years exclusivity contract with the GBPC and we are now hoping on the operation of the coal-fired power plant," said Peralta.

Akelco is also waiting for the establishment of the 12-megawatt biomass power plant in Banga, Aklan by the ASEA One Power Corporation.

DPWH Fast Tracks 17 Bridge Projects in Panay

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) regional office, Iloilo City is racing against time in the construction of new replacement bridges in Panay Island particularly in the provinces of Antique, Capiz and Iloilo as part of DPWH rehabilitation efforts on typhoon Frank-damaged infrastructures in Western Visayas two years ago.

DPWH Reg. Dir. Rolando M. Asis disclosed that Secretary Victor A. Domingo inspected the bridge projects recently and ordered the fast-tracking and completion of these projects as the new government under President Benigno Aquino III may appoint a new DPWH Secretary by July.

Domingo visited the ongoing construction of 150.30 lineal meters Nichols Bridge spanning the Aganan River in Alimodian, Iloilo and ordered contractor Toyo-Tobishima Joint Venture and consultants Katahira Engineers International to expedite the construction works.

The bridge project in Alimodian is implemented under the Urgent Bridges Construction Projects for Rural Development (UBCPRD) of the President’s Bridge Program Office (PBPO) under DPWH Assistant Secretary Emil K. Sadain.

Asis said a total of 17 bridges are included under UBCPRD contract package 4 covering the provinces of Iloilo, Capiz and Antique in areas severely affected by typhoon "Frank".

Ongoing is the construction of Balua Bridge, also in Alimodian, as well as Culasi Bridge in Ajuy, Iloilo and Habana Bridge in Dumarao, Capiz.

Also ongoing are the Bongol Bridge in Valderrama; Igdalaguit Bridge in Tobias Fornier; Bayo, Butuan, Sira-an, Dapog, Panabigan, Iba, Bongalonan, and Dapdap Bridges in Anini-y; Bia-an Bridge in Hamtic; Nagdayao Bridge and Catungan Bridge in Sibalom, all in the province of Antique.(PNA) /MP

New Washington, Critical Food Bowl of Aklan?

by ERNESTO T. SOLIDUM

Weekly Kapehan guests on June 26, 2010 at Smokehauz Resto & Bar featured the newly elected officials of New Washington who are Mayor Edgar R. Peralta, Vice Mayor Jean T. Velarde, SB members Alberto M. Andrade and Junie D. Repiano. The topic is "First 100 Days", part of tri-media’s thrust of promoting transparency and accountability among public officials.

The record victory at the polls poses greater challenge in the quest to provide a better life for its growing constituents. Buoyed by vibrant economy, Mayor Peralta is determined to double efforts with his new mandate. He said that economic enterprise development could be the turning point in fiscal self-reliance. This early, he aims for first class municipal status. Obviously, he is indebted to business, professional, and labor unions who believed in his charisma and integrity.

Vice Mayor Velarde echoes this goal saying this is achievable. Presently, the SB has approved 250 resolutions and a score of ordinances promoting balanced approach to development. The lady is into her third term. She is serving as Pres. Vice Mayors’ League of the Philippines, Aklan Chapter.

New Washington is re-classified as 3rd class municipality with average income of P150,000 per month mainly derived from maritime commerce. The town is noted for its fine natural harbor, delectable seafood and convention center. Cultural heritage list includes birthplace of Jaime Cardinal L. Sin, Pacto de Sangre and ASU College of Fisheries.

Mayor Peralta prioritizes four projects for implementation which are a) Education, b) Business establishments, c) Strengthen health care services, and d) peace & order.
Educational thrust would help fund barangays having room shortage and dilapidated school buildings. Community center in the Poblacion would be upgraded with computers and other high tech gadgets.

Satellite office in Mataphao will cater to the needs of eight remote interior barangays. People need not to go to the Poblacion to transact business like payment of real estate tax or securing community tax. A bagsakan terminal for agriculture and fishery goods will form part of the facility.

Health care services shall be a continuing program with established barangay health centers and regular visitation of nurses, midwives, and Rural Health Physician.

Peace and order is focused on illegal drugs, their management targets the youth and their parents.

Mayor Peralta is obviously frustrated over failure of national government to release P45 million for renovation and or retrofitting of Tambak breakwater infra. Even Tambak bridge and its vicinity need to be dredged in order to allow free flow of tidal water into Lagatik river. We couldn’t do anything on such a massive scale except to do patchwork job using concrete jackstones. During Typhoon Frank, Tambak breakwater was severely crippled that transport to and from the Provincial Capital was halted for several days.

However, the biggest challenge is dredging the whole length of Lagatik river now heavily silted and polluted. This makes the inter island navigation difficult to make regular port calls at the Poblacion. Culprit could be the unbridled proliferation of fish cages, baklads, mussel and oyster farms that impede water flow and abet unwanted sediments.

Washington is critically the food bowl of Aklan because of its improved agriculture and aquaculture industries. Data from DA-BFAR show that in 2007, total rice area is 1,421 hectares, 90 percent fully irrigated. Developed fishponds are 3,245 hectares. Augmenting the daily fish haul are 10 commercial fishing boats. Indeed this vast food resource is providential but could easily be wiped out by environmental disasters and mismanagement.

A strategy adopted by LGU New Washington on conservation and sustainability is mangrove reforestation. Flourishing ones are Ochando (10 has.), Cawayan (10 has.), Tambak, (10 has.), Guinbaliwan (10 has.), and Pinamuk-an (32 has.). All are located in Lagatik river ecosystem.

Contrary to claim of Mayor Peralta, New Washington has no fish sanctuary. As of 2010, BFAR Aklan lists only six municipalities namely: Batan, Buruanga, Ibajay, Malay, Nabas, and Tangalan with fish sanctuaries. Nevertheless, Mr. William B. Castillo, OIC Provincial Agriculturist in an interview said that they have initiated fish sanctuaries in Tambak, Polo, Cawayan and Fatima but program is aborted by LGU New Washington.

Furthermore, Ms. Alicia L. Robelo, Aquaculturist II, BFAR disclosed that based on Coastal Resources Management guidelines, fish sanctuaries could only be established in bays, coves, and inlets where corrals, seaweeds, and sea grass could be grown and provide food, sanctuary and spawning ground of fishes. Decidedly New Washington mangrove reforestation could not be classified as fish sanctuary.

Health condition of Lagatik river has worsen over the years. It has effectively reduced volume of fish catch and income of fisherfolks. Disappearance of seaweeds or "eaba-eaba" where it used to be plentiful three or four decades ago is an indication nothing has been done to mitigate the problem of pollution and siltation.

Speaking of water pollution, Mayor Peralta bewails effluents from Kalibo’s open dumpsite hurting New Washington fishery resources and beach resorts. We simply could not fulfill requirements embodied in RA 9300 or Solid Waste Management because of our geographic location. We humbly ask the provincial government to facilitate a site for our sanitary landfill.

Full coverage of the Kapehan is facilitated with cooperation of Aklan CTV. /MP