W. Visayas To Become RP’s Bio Fuel Energy Forerunner

Frequent brownouts will soon be a thing of the past for the people of Western Visayas with the pouring in of renewable and bio-energy projects in the region.

According to Gil Altura, chief of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Project Development Investment Programming and Budgeting Division, the Department of Energy (DOE) has declared Region VI as laboratory for bio energy and renewable fuels.

In the next 10 years Western Visayas is projected to be "the country’s front runner in bio fuels and renewable energy mix," Altura reported.

The NEDA in its Regional Development Agenda (RDA) has enumerated several com-pleted and on-going projects relative to the thrust.

Four hydropower projects already completed are the 40-kilowatt (kw) Canauilan-Barasalon Micro in Janiauy, Iloilo; 32 kw Balea Micro Hydro in Calatrava, 32-kw Vergra-Magtuod Micro Hydro and the 21-kw Baclao Micro Hydro in Cauayan all in Negros Occidental.

These completed micro hydro projects are assisted by the Central Philippine University- Affiliated Non-conventional Energy Center/Japan International Cooperation Agency (CPU-ANEC/JICA), Preferred Energy Inc and Japan Fund Poverty Reduction.

A 15-kw project also by the said group is now on-going in Sebaste, Antique.

On the other hand, the 8-megawatt Villasiga Hydro in Bugasong and 2.1 mw Guiamon-San Ramon Hydro in Laua-an all in Antique are being undertaken by the Sunwest Water and Electric Company (SUWECO).

A second level scooping was completed for the Jalaur-River Multi-Purpose Project proposed by the National Irrigation Administration (NIA). It is expected to generate some 14-mw.

A memorandum of agreement (MOA) for hydro power exploration was also inked between the Conal Holdings/Alto Power Management Corporation and the local government units of Kabankalan, Negros Occidental for the proposed 40-mw Bago River Power Plant.

The 21-mw biomass plant of the First Farmers Holding Corporation Co-Gen Power Plant was already commissioned. While waiting for the approval of the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) on the supply agreement between the generator and the Central Negros Electric Cooperative (CENECO) the FFHC exports its power to Cebu.

Also operational is the 15 –mw Passi Co-Gen Power Plant by the Central Azucarera de San Antonio.

Still on the biomass power there is an on-going site preparation for the 15-mw Cabalabaguan Biomass in Mina, Iloilo and 17-mw Biomass Plant embedded at the Capiz Electric Cooperative (CAPELCO) in Capiz by the Green Power Panay Philippines, Inc.

The Asea One Power Corporation has already acquired a site for its 12-mw Agbanawan Biomass Plant in Banga, Aklan. The acquisition is still on-going for the 30-mw plant to be situated in Ajuy, Iloilo.

For the wind power, Trans-Asia Renewable Energy Corporation has an on-going 54-mw San Lorenzo Wind Farm project in San Lorenzo, Guimaras.

The San Carlos Bioenergy, which is the country’s first sugarcane based ethanol by the Bronzeoak, is now operating in San Carlos, Negros Occidental while another bio-ethanol plant by the Roxol Bioenergy Corp. based in La Carlota also in Negros Occidental is expected to be operational soon.

The Energy Develop-ment Corporation (EDC) also re-commissioned its 10-mw Northern Negros Geothermal Project in Bago City and Murcia while it also has an on-going 30-mw Northern Negros Steam Augmentation Project at the buffer zone of the Mt. Kanlaon Natural Park.

During a previous interview, NEDA director Ro-Ann Bacal said that there will be some changes in the priorities of the region and one of which is to ensure not only a stable but cheaper power supply to attract more investments in Western Visayas. (PNA) /MP

20 Year Imprisonment For Erring Public Transport Drivers

Senator Chiz Escudero is seeking to increase the criminal liability of negligent drivers of public trans-portation under the Revised Penal Code in light of a string of road tragedies around the country.

In Senate Bill No. 365 Escudero filed in the Senate, the legislator wanted Article 365 of the penal code amended to bring to 20 years the maximum jail term of erring public transport drivers.

Escudero said the penalties provided under Article 365 may no longer work with the way public transports, especially buses, have lightly treated their obligation under existing laws.

From the existing penalty of arrest mayor to prision correcional in its medium period, or from one month to four years and two months, Escudero is pushing for tighter penalties against offenders.

SBN 2095 proposes to penalize criminal negligence by common carriers with imprisonment ranging from four months　and　one day to six months to 12 years in case of injury and depending on the extent.

In case of death, Escudero said penalty should range from 12 years to 20 years jail term.

"Recent road tragedies show how drivers have become reckless and irresponsible in the conduct of their duties. They seem to disregard the statutory policy to bring their passengers safely as far as human care and foresight can provide, using utmost diligence and caution," Escudero said.

According to Escudero, the bill seeks to provide a preventive policy to address recklessness of drivers, which has been one of the leading causes of deaths among Filipinos.　/MP

Banks Must Stop Using Transparent Glass Walls

City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog discourages banks from using transparent glass walls in covering the bank premises.

Mabilog said transparent glass walls expose what is happening inside the bank, making it easy for the culprits to do their planning even at a distance.

He cited the office of EastWest bank which is very exposed since its front wall is made of transparent glass.

Mabilog advised managers to cover the exposed portion of the bank to deter robbery. He said he will tap the Iloilo City Police Office (ICPO) to advise the 113 banks operating in this city.

"We have to pre-empt this incident or else more banks will be victimized", he said.
Mabilog also ordered police personnel from the ICPO to check those existing close-circuit television (CCTV) cameras being installed in some banks, as well as their alarm system connection in Iloilo City.

The executive said that he received information that receptions of some CCTV cameras are not good. Instead of helping the fast investigation, it turned futile.
"CCTV cameras are being installed purposely to monitor the entry and exit of bank clients and its personnel, at the same time to identify the robbers. However, if it would not serve its purpose, the effort will just turn to nothing", he stressed.

Mabilog also said the alarm system of the banks should be connected directly to the nearest police station for fast response.

In the case of EastWest bank, its alarm system is being connected to their main office in Manila.

Mabilog hopes all banks will comply with the basic requirements before the renewal of their business permits. (PNA) /MP

EDITORIAL

RP Promotes Pro-vitamin A Rice

To test the adaptability and performance of rice varieties containing beneficial amount of beta-carotene, the country will conduct field trials on these varieties come dry season 2011.

Atty. Ronilo A. Beronio, PhilRice executive director, said the country’s progress in pro-vitamin A rich research will help reduce incidences on vitamin A deficiency. Statistics from Food and Nutrition Research Institute revealed that around four of 10 children aged six months to five years old and three of 10 school children suffer from the deficiency. One of five pregnant and lactating Filipino women also lacks vitamin A.

Using conventional method in breeding, plant breeders had introduced the gene for beta-carotene production into a local popular cultivar from a donor variety. To be transferred to farmers by 2013. The beta-carotene-laden rice can be grown organically and will be sold in a price comparable with the regular polished rice.

"The first approval of this type of rice will likely be given to our country as plant breeders have successfully crossed the donor plant with PSB Rc82. PhilRice will test the variety’s adaptability and performance after signing a material transfer agreement," Beronio said after attending the recent 15th board meeting of the Golden Rice Humanitarian Board held in Singapore.

With the introgression of the beta carotene gene to PSB Rc82, Beronio said deficiency in Vitamin A is expected to decrease as a study published in the June 2009 issue of The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition revealed that a cup of beta-carotene rice could supply half of the vitamin A needed every day. When consumed by the body, beta-carotene produces vitamin A.

Vitamin A deficiency results in poor eyesight and night blindness. The deficiency also damages the immune system increasing risk to common bacterial and viral infections and rate of mortality especially among children.

Beronio, who experienced night blindness while growing up in a fishing village in Palawan, said the Golden Rice Humanitarian Board is confident of the Philippines’ capability to develop beta-carotene rich owing to the country’s well-established regulatory frameworks on safety evaluation.

"The country’s National Committee on Biosafety under the Department of Science and Technology provides regulatory oversight on contained research, while the Bureau of Plant Industry strictly monitors field trials. We also have Administrative Order No. 8, Series of 2002 stipulating the rules and regulations on the importation and releases of plant and plant products derived from the use of modern biotechnology," Beronio explained.

Other than the scheduled field testing of pro-vitamin A rice, PhilRice is currently increasing the rice’s resistance to bacterial leaf blight and tungro. Dr. Antonio A. Alfonsio, Acting director of the Department of Agriculture-Biotechnology Center, leads the project.

Meanwhile, two acceptability studies conducted by PhilRice and International Research Institute on 2004-2005 and Strive Foundation in 2005-2006 revealed that 69 percent of the respondents accept biofortified rice produced through biotechnology while 58 percent of farmers and rural consumers are willing to plant, buy and sell rice similar to the varieties PhilRice will test.

Rice Conservation

Not only to promote Vitamin A rice, PhilRice also advocates rice conservation. PhilRice booth at World Trade Center highlighted the Save Rice, Save Lives pledge to encourage rice consumers to commit themselves to conserve rice.

"We hope that we could influence more people, especially in the urban areas, not to waste rice as their share in the country’s bid to rice-self sufficiency in 2013," Beronio wished.

Each Filipino wastes 3 tablespoons of cooked rice everyday. This wastage, on the aggregate scale, translates into 480,000 tons of raw rice a year.

"If rice is not wasted, import savings can reach up to P10 billion annually and can feed 4.3 million hungry Filipinos in a year," Beronio pointed out.

The Save Rice, Save Lives Movement urges households to cook rice enough for the family and to wash rice twice to cut wastage and avoid loss of nutrients. /MP

Entrepreneurial Farmer

Ambrosio R. Villorente

Greedy

Ko isaeang Martes nga nagtaliwan, Enero 11, idto ako sa Malacañang Palace, Manila. Nag iba ako sa among onga, kay Denis. Sa anang tatlong bagay nga nahuman sa anang pagpamuno it "Advanced Science and Technology Institute" hay hapili-an ratong tatlong anang binuhatan. Gin kilaea nga pinasahi nga binuhatan busa, gin pa dunggan it "Career Executive Service Board" it atong gobiyerno.

Tag naga hueat kami kay Pangueong Noynoy Aquino nga maga panupod it plaque, may naka kilaea kakon nga sangka Aklanon man. Ana akong guin eapitan. Nag kamustahan kami.

Owa kapilahi, ana akong gin pangutana kon ano ro kahueogan it "SUEOK". Hakibot ako, ham-an ha-adto kami sa rikato? Ogaling, akon mat-a imaw gin sabat. "Ano makon, greedy?" Tumango imaw, "huo".

"SUEOK"

Ro sueok makon sa English hay "greedy", excessively desirous of wealth, power, honor, profit, and others. May mabaskog nga handum nga mangin "hyper" mang-garanon, taga li-og nga ginansiya, ana tanan ro dungog ag taga eomopong nga poder o poderoso.

"Bukon mana ro sueok hay hambae nga bagay sa tawong gutom? Owa ka pamahaw ag kailabas?" anang pangutana.

"Taw-i abi mana ako it instansiya nga ro sangka tawo hay sueok", anang padoeogya.
Kon owa ka makon ka pamahaw, kailabas hay nagutom ka, nasueokan ka. Tongod na sueokan, abo ro imong kaunon, sobra sa regular. Busa, ro naga kaon it sobra, maskin busog eon ag sige pang kina-on, mawron do SUEOK. Hay ano mana ro epekto kon sueok ro tawo? Maakop imaw. Budli eon sige pang kaon maskin ro iba hay gina gutom pa.

Ano ro iba pang hambae nga sueok man ro kahueogan? Sueok, maakop, hangoe, hakug. "Hay kon hangoe ako it dungog, owa’t sayod?" Mayad kon hangoe ro tawo it dungog tungod ro anda karon nga handum hay maghimo it kamaeayran para sa tawo ag banwa. Ogaling kon hakug ro tawo sa poder hay "catastrophe", imaw man ro tawong maakup it manggad. Duro eon do anda, hingabuton pa ro ana it iba nga sangkuruti manlang.

Ro MKWD, nag ginansiya it sobrang P17 million ko 2007, nag ta-o it Christmas gift sa mga empleyado it balor P8 million ko paskwa 2010. Makaron, nagpataas pa it pagsukot sa andang pagpatubod it tubi. Ro andang concessionaires hay gina pigos pa gid. Hakug sa ginansiya, hakog sa manggad.

"Mahimo baeang mag ehemplo man naton kon ano ro tawong sueok sa poder?"
Duro! Sa tanan nga lebel it gobiyerno. Abong hangoe it poder.

May sangka babaye. Imaw hay nag Undersecretary it DTI eon, senador ag pangaywang pangueo it Pilipinas. Eabi gid sa tanan, pangueo it Pilipinas it siyam nga dag-on. Ogaling, gutom pa it poder, nasueokan pa it poder, hangoe. Busa, si Ms. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo hay congresswoman eon man.

May sueok man it poder nga mga Aklanons?

Ikaw eang magsabat ko imong pangutana ngaron. Mayad nga mag bakasyon ka sa Aklan agud masabat mo ring pangutana.

Hay basi hakug man sanda sa dungog? Umuli ka man agod makita mo man do andang inobrahan.

Umabot eon si Pangueong PNoy – 1:30 it hapon. Viva Kay Senior Sto. Niño! Viva! /MP

Kalibo All Set For 2011 Ati-atihan Festival

Kalibo Sr. Sto. Niño Ati-Atihan Festival, observed on the third week of January every year, is considered as the mother of all Philippine festivals and fiestas.

Its 2011 edition is all set to present a weeklong spectacular show this week until its culmination on January 16.

Kalibo Mayor William S. Lachica has announced that preparations are all set for the spectacular Kalibo Ati-atihan 2011.

Mayor Lachica said the success of this year’s Ati-atihan has been assured with the active cooperation of various organizations, particularly the KASAFI, cultural and civic organizations, the business sector, Sto. Nino religious groups and the municipal and barangay officials.

"It is heartening to note that the whole capital town’s people are enthusiastically setting up preparations to welcome guests and tourists," the Kalibo mayor said.

Kalibo Vice Mayor Madeline Ang Regalado disclosed that officials and members of the Kalibo Sangguniang Bayan are mobilizing all efforts to insure the success of the 2011 Kalibo Ati-atihan.

Among those expected to attend the weeklong festivities are members and officers of the different Aklan associations throughout the United States, Canada, Europe, the Middle East, and other countries; diplomat and cultural attaches of embassies, consulates and delegations from the different countries; journalists from various parts of the country and special guests of some Aklanons.

Dedicated to the Sto Nino (Infant Jesus), who is known to generously bless his devotees with good health and prosperity, the 2011 Kalibo Ati-atihan will feature parade of different tribal contingents with amazing colorful costumes.

Organized groups participating in the Ati-atihan receive substantial awards of recognition and cash prizes for winning its contest.

Ms. Juliet T. Melgarejo, acting head of the Municipal Economic Enterprises and Development Office, under which the local tourism operates, said Kalibo is leaving no stone unturned to insure the success of the Ati-atihan which will redound to the economic, social and cultural enhancement of Kalibo in particular and Aklan and its people as well.

Aklan Gov. Carlito S. Marquez, for his part, has been mobilizing the resources of his office and the provincial government. He has initiated the installation of lighting facilities and other needed modern amenities in this capital town to ensure the success of its 2011 Ati-atihan.

Tight Security

Some 250 police personnel from the regional headquarters of the Philippine National Police (PNP) will be deployed for this year’s Kalibo Ati-Atihan Festival.

Aklan provincial police director Senior Superintendent Epifanio Bragais, Jr. has requested the Police Regional Office (PRO-6) for additional police force to implement the operation plan for tight security during the festival.

Bragais said the APPO will establish nine community police assistance centers (compacts) in the capital town of Kalibo to ensure the safety and security of tourists, devotees and revelers and keep the traffic flow smooth throughout the main streets of this town.

APPO will also put up additional checkpoints and chokepoints to maintain police visibility during the weeklong Ati-Atihan festival.

Bragais stressed that the augmentation force from the PRO-6 and the Philippine Army, and the 200-strong APPO personnel deployed will be on alert to guard thousands of visitors, both foreign and local, expected to join the renowned Sr. Sto. Niño Ati-Atihan Festival in honor of Senor Sto. Nino.

Also, the Kalibo police auxiliary, volunteers, reservists and com-munication groups will serve as force multipliers for the anti-criminality and peace and order campaign of the PNP.

The festival on January 10 to 16, features the traditional Ati-Atihan contest, paeapak or pahilot, search for Mutya it Kalibo Ati-Atihan, Hala Bira Ati-Atihan nights, Day of the Drums, religious procession, nine days novena, pilgrims’ mass, product showcase and exhibits, blessing of children and dawn penitential procession, Higante and Aklan Festivals Parade and Kaean-an sa Plaza.

　
Security Plans
　

The APPO is ready to implement the security plan for the famous Kalibo Ati-Atihan festival on January 10 – 16, 2011. The security plan was presented at the Police Regional Office (PRO-6) this week.

In the past Ati-Atihan festivals, the police set-up checkpoints and community police assistance centers to provide tight security for thousands of revelers and guests. Bragais said the security preparations are now in place since the APPO through the Kalibo police station have already met with the festival peace and order committee for the security, traffic and peace and order plans. /MP

PNoy Confers 2010 Gawad CES Award To 4 CESOs

His Excellency Benigno S. Aquino III is shown with the four (4) outstanding CESOs 2010 Gawad Career Executive Service (CES) after his confirmation on January 11, 2011 at the Rizal Hall, Malacañang Palace. Other in the picture are the committee on award member. Denis is 6th from left.

Gawad CES is a Presidential award that recognizes members in the CES for exemplary performance and significant contributions, particularly in the areas of innovation, information and communication technology, social services, adminis-trative reforms and public policy. The 2010 awardees are: Patricio S. Faylon, CESO II and Executive Director of the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Forestry and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCARRD-DOST); Urdujah A. Tejada, CESO III and Regional Director of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) – Region II; Mario C. Villaverde, CESO I and Undersecretary of the Department of Health; and Denis F. Villorente, CESO III and Director of the Advanced Science and Technology Institute (ASTI) – DOST.

Faylon was recognized for leading to push the PCARRD to vie for the Philippine Quality Award (PQA)—the highest level of national recognition for exemplary organizational performance via the Continual Improvement Program, which improved the system thereby saving time and resources for the agency; for enabling the PCARRD to actively sustain its resource generation activities, which resulted in almost doubling the agency’s regular budgetary appropriation from the government, allowing them to sustain their programs and other developmental projects and to conceptualize more R&D programs; and for helping establish the Techno-Gabay Program (TGP) as PCARRD’s platform for R&D results utilization and transfer that serves to bring the needed products and/or processes to the farmers.　

Tejada was cited for her three outstanding accomplishments such as leading the establishment of three (3) community-based science and technology projects on aquaculture, peanut and coconut crops that generated employ-ment and increased the income of small fisher folks and farmers; facilitating skills training, technical productivity consultancy services, product quality improvement and product development and promotion to eight (8) Harnessing Appropriate Technologies to Assist Women (HATAW) groups with the aim of producing successful female entrepreneurs; and initiating institutional support to small and medium-term enterprises through mechanisms that improves the quality and competitiveness of products of the SMEs in the region.　　 　

The Presidential Award was given to Villaverde for steering the formulation of the Health Sector Reform Agenda (HSRA) 2000 and the Formula One for Health (F1) that facilitated the much needed reforms in the health sector; for crafting and taking charge of the interim guidelines and health sector response for the containment and mitigation of the deadly A(H1N1) influenza in 2009; and for initiating the design and development, in coordination with international, non-government and other agency partners of a series of training courses for personnel development of health workers in the country, thus ensuring the sustainability of　 DOH programs and projects.　　

Villorente, on the other hand, was awarded for leading the continued growth and promotion of research networking in the country through the Philippine Research, Education and Government Information Network (PREGINET) that propelled several government agencies, including state universities and colleges, into the information age by providing them a platform to be connected to the internet and to have internet presence through the establishment of government websites; for promoting Internet Protocol Version 6 (IPv6) technology and awareness enabling the country to become an integrated part of the global research committee; and for leading the technical team involved in the certification of the Smartmatic Corp for use in the May 2010 national elections which was instrumental in convincing the COMELEC that the automated election system was viable in the Philippines.

The Committee on Awards who selected the 2010 Gawad CES winners is composed of four representatives from private sectors and three dis-tinguished members of the CES Board. They are: Emerlinda R. Roman, President of the University of the Philippines; Amelou B. Reyes, President of the Philippine Women’s University; Jimmy Isidro, President of the People Management Association of the Philippines; Ramon M. Lopez, Vice-President of the RFM Corporation; CES Board Member Antonio D. Kalaw, President of the Development Academy of the Philippines; CES Board Member Susan M. Solo, Director IV of the Presidential Management Staff; and the Chairman of the Committee Francisco T. Duque III, Chair of the Civil Service Commission.

The awardees received a plaque of recognition and Php 100,000.00 each. /MP

Malacañang Prepares For 1st LEDAC Meeting

Executive Secretary Paquito N. Ochoa Jr. said last week the Cabinet had identified 32 bills that would be submitted to President Benigno Aquino III ahead of the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council (LEDAC) meeting to be held before the end of January.

Ochoa convened the other day members of the Cabinet for a workshop designed to identify key legislative measures which will be included in the administration’s Priority Legislative Agenda.

"The priority legislative measures we have crafted are consistent with the President’s social contract with the Filipino people," Ochoa said. "We want to ensure that this administration succeeds in addressing this with the help of Congress."

The objectives of the priority legislative agenda are the following:

• address poverty and promote a healthy, educated, and empowered citizenry
•promote productivity, generate employment and promote food sufficiency
• encourage more public-private partnerships and promote a competitive policy environment
• protect our sovereignty, ensure security and promote the rule of law
• strengthen the capacity of the bureaucracy to govern

According to the Executive Secretary, 139 proposed bills were put forward by Cabinet members during the workshop and another 41 were submitted by the Joint Foreign Chambers of Commerce of the Philippines.

At the workshop, these proposed legislative measures were processed, integrated and prioritized by five clusters, each representing a critical area, Ochoa said.

The heads of the five clusters are Vice President Jejomar Binay, Human Development; Economic Secretary Cayetano Paderanga Jr., Economic Development; Public Works Secretary Rogelio Singson, Infrastructure Development; Justice Secretary Leila De Lima, Rule of Law; and Ochoa, Good Governance.

The Office of the Executive Secretary, Presidential Legislative Liaison Office and other concerned agencies will undertake another review of the proposed bills and take into consideration the recommendation of Budget Secretary Butch Abad to study their impact on the budget.

"Once this study is done and the President goes over the proposed measures and approves them, we will make the necessary preparations for the first LEDAC meeting together with NEDA (National Economic Development Authority), the LEDAC Secretariat, as well as make public the specific measures that will make up our Priority Legislative Agenda," Ochoa explained.

The administration is optimistic that with the help of Congress, "we can add or maybe improve the legislation we will be submitting to them." /MP

The Origin of Ati-Atihan Festival

by LOUIE RESTERIO

Ati-Atihan is making one’s self like the Ati or Aeta or pretending to be one. Kalibo’s "frenzied and raucous" historical and religious festivity observed every second week and culminating on the 3rd Sunday of January came from that intent. Citizens, tourists and pilgrims in this town smear themselves with soot or any blackening substance to look like an Aeta-queer, but true.

Ati-Atihan is believed to have started in the year 1212 when Borneans led by the 10 Datus packed themselves in several boats or "baeangays," (barangay). They crossed the seas to escape the unpopular regime of Sultan Makatunaw, Then landed in Panay Island; established the first community of the brown race in this country and the first union of states in Southeast Asia - the Confederation of Madyaas.

Few know s that the first Ati-Atihan was celebrated to seal a peace pact that united two races and peoples - the Aetas and the Malays. With different cultures and spiritual creeds, to embrace each other, gave way to an enduring legacy of reconciliation that gave birth to the Philippine Nation. The comme-moration of the Ati-Atihan Festivals is significant at this point in time as the entire nation is being swept with social, economic and political crises.

The saga of this great migration told and related for generation started in the Court of Brunei under the regime of Sultan Makatunaw whose insecurity and greed for power transformed him into tyrant after the collapse of the Sri-Visayan Empire and the remnants of its vast territory were at the mercy of the conquering hordes of Madjapahit warriors. The widespread discontent under Makatunaw’s rule reached the point of a popular uprising. Datu Puti, his chief minister, together with his followers decided to leave and seek for peace in a new land.

One night the rebels under the leadership of Datu Puti, stealthily their "baeangays" and faced the seas for distant unknown destiny. Guided by the stars and favored by tropical winds, they reached the islands of Sugbu (Cebu). Parawan (Palawan) and Buglas (Negros). But the topography and the distance of these islands to the island where they came from, discouraged their settling down. They were already bound in their direction of the islands of Romren (Romblon) when they were attracted by a silhouette of a mountain summit shaped like a salakot ("mangkusarok") in the horizon. The group that was already plagued by big waves, strong current, diseases, hunger and thirst in the high seas and whose most valued treasure in their possession they brought in their escape was a "saruk nga bug-os nga bueawan" (golden salakot), interpreted the sighting as a good omen. They changed course and headed towards the beacon of the mountain and landed at the sunrise of the first "Tigueak" in 1212 A.D. in the island of Panay then called Aninipay - (named after a plant that abound in the place and whose fine unwashable bristles causes skin eruption and irritation which could not be easily cured). They named the Island Madyaas or paradise in contrast to the land they left behind.

With the party of Datu Puti and wife Pinang-pangan were Datus Sumakwel with wife Kapinangan, Lubay, Balkasua, Bangkaya with wife Katurung, Paiburong, Dumagsol, Dumalugdug and Paduhinog with wife Ribungsapaw and their selected loyal subjects.

After the landing, they sought audience with Ati Chieftain Marikudo and offered to buy the entire island. After several weeks of negotiation, the plains of Panay was offered for peaceful settling of the Malays in exchange for a golden salakot, brass basins, bales of cloth along with a trinket for Maniwangtiwang (wife of Marikudo) the link of which reached her feet and a harvest for one summer of the produce of the sea, while the hinterlands remained for the Aetas.

A glorious celebration to seal the negotiation followed. The unending flow of native wine (tuba) and the sumptuous meal motivated the start of merry-making. The Malays in their effort to show appreciation and sincerity and to further befriend their host smeared themselves with soot from their cooking utensils to look like Aetas. The uninhibited spontaneous dancing of the two races lasted till the wee hours of the morning to the bet and music of native songs, "baktoe" and drums of the Aetas and the Malays. Thus started the first Ati-Atihan which was commemorated by Datu Bangkaya when he first established Madyanos or little paradise (later renamed Aclan which was also changed to Kalibo) at the bank of the Aklan River on the second Tagbueukad (Saturday) of Dagangkahoy (February).

Ati-Atihan Festival Begins when the 10 datus founded their own settlements, Datu Bangkaya, the intellectual among the ten and the chief advisor of Datu Puti, established the town of Madyanos (little paradise) in the west bank of the Aklan river. There, he commemorated the purchase of every harvest.

On how the Ati-Atihan became a religious feast, Aklanon historian Beato dela Cruz recounts:

"In 1750, one Fray Andres de Aguirre, a Basque companion priest of Fray Andres Urdaneta and explorer Miguel Lopez de Legaspi baptized in one day 1,000 inhabitants of the town and surrounding settlements in the place. To celebrate the eventful day, the drums of Aklan were sounded for this beneficial event and coincided with the existing Ati-Atihan feast. Thus, the present Ati-Atihan as tinged with religious fervor is now associated with miracles. Devotees today participate in the street dancing, novena and masses or fall in line at the century-old Kalibo Cathedral just to let their bodies be massaged or rubbed with the image of the Sto. Niño" (de Kalibo). This is called "paeapak".

The young however, has abandoned the old culture and religious significance in their street revelry. They adopted the modern stance of the computer age. They no longer smear their faces and bodies with soot. Instead wear grotesque make-ups (or none at all) and outstanding costumes of their age. Others prefer merely t-shirt or poncho rather than the tribal garments of the 12th and the 13th centuries.

COME AND JOIN! the 2011 Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-atihan Festival! VIVA KAY SR. STO. NINO! VIVA! /MP

Sugilanon Ni Tita Linda

Ni Tita Linda Belayro

Paskwa Ko Mga Ati

Si Don Pepe sangka tawong mahambae natong pilantropo. Owa ra imaw naga ta-o it bulig sa mga ordinaryo nga tawo. Owa man imaw naga tambong sa mga pagtililipon nga magarbo ag kapin pa gid ro guina utang agod igasto sa pag hig-ea hig-ea. Kontra man nana ro naga inutang agod isugae o ipangabuhi it magarbo.

Kon bisperas it paskwa, naga suksok imaw it gunit-gunit sa anang pagwarang sa kalye agod makita ro minatuod-tuod nga hitsura it mga tawo. Kon amat, naga adto imaw sa mga lib-lib nga lugar nga owa haabot it sibilisasyon.

Isaeang ka bisperas it paskwa, nakaabot imaw sa lugar nga guina estaran it mga Ati.
Owa it elektrisidad ag abong buho-buho ro karsada. Bugana mat-a sa tanum ro lugar ag malimpyo ro naga ilig nga tubi sa suba. Pag-abot nana sa pinaka plaza, owa guid it mga paha-um o maskin puni ro lugar. Matsa ordinaryo guid lang nga adlaw. Nag usyoso imaw sa isaeang ka pamaeay. Nangayo imaw it tubi. Guin taw-an man imaw it tubi halin sa banga nga guin tabo it bagoe.

Dali-dali imaw it uli ag guin tipon ro anang mga sueogo-on. Guin pahaum ro mga daeae-hon sakay sa anang helicopter. Pag-abot sa lugar, nag paeanago ro mga Ati tongod imaw paeang sanda nakakita it helicopter. Guin papanaog ro mga kinarton. Tongod kara, nagpaeapit ro tanan. Guin buksan ro mga karton ag guin panupuran ro mga tawo it mga hamon, keso, bugas, ag mga de lata. Dugang pa kara, guin taw-an pa sanda ni Santa Klaus it kwarta.

Pagtaliwan it paskwa, nag aeabutan man pagka taliwan it pilang adlaw ro mga igdaeapat, inhenyero, pareho it bulldozer, truck, pison, ag grader agod sementuhon ro andang karsada. Guin patindugan pa sanda it "reservoir" it tubi ag elektrisidad.

Tag matapos ro mga konstraksiyon, nag iba eon ro andang estilo sa pagpangabuhi ko mga tawo sa lugar ngato. Nag ugan ro andang pangabuhi. Pirmi nandang hadu-dumduman nga may isaeang ka Santa Klaus nga nag-abot kanda ag nag daea it abong kamaeayran agod mabatyagan ro espiritu it paskwa. /MP

FOOD & HEALTH

Anti Cancer Fruits

To eat fruits and to drink juices are two strategies to heal cancer, said an oncologist. As of late, his success rate in curing cancer is about 80 percent. "Cancer patients shouldn’t die", he believes. The cure for cancer is already found. It depends upon you to believe it or not. He is sorry for the hundreds of cancer patients who die under the conventional treatments.

Very few can live for five (5) years under the conventional treatments and most live for only about 2 to 3 years. The conventional treatments do not make any difference because most cancer patients also live for about 2 to 3 years without undergoing any treatment.

It is difficult to cure those cancer patients who have undergone chemo and radiotherapy as their cells are toxic and weak. "When there is a relapse, the cancer will spread very fast as the resistance is poor", that doctor pointed out.

Recommended Fruits To Eat

We all think eating fruits means just buying fruits, cutting it and just popping it into our mouths. It’s not as easy as you think. It’s important to know how and when to eat.
What is the correct way of eating fruits?

IT MEANS NOT EATING FRUITS AFTER YOUR MEALS! * FRUITS SHOULD BE EATEN ON AN EMPTY STOMACH.

If you eat fruit like that, it will play a major role to detoxify your system, supplying you with a great deal of energy for weight loss and other life activities.

FRUIT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT FOOD.

Let’s say you eat two slices of bread and then a slice of fruit. The slice of fruit is ready to go straight through the stomach into the intestines, but it is prevented from doing so (by bread eaten ahead).

In the meantime the whole meal rots and ferments and turns to acid. The minute the fruit comes into contact with the food in the stomach and digestive juices, the entire mass of food begins to spoil....

So eat your fruits on an empty stomach or before your meals! You have heard people complaining — every time I eat watermelon I burp, when I eat durian my stomach bloats up, when I eat a banana I feel like running to the toilet. Actually, all these will not arise if you eat the fruit on an empty stomach. The fruit mixes with the putrefying other food and produces gas and hence you will bloat!

Graying hair, balding, nervous outburst, and dark circles under the eyes all these will NOT happen if you take fruits on an empty stomach.

There is no such thing as some fruits, like orange and lemon are acidic, because all fruits become alkaline in our body, according to Dr. Herbert Shelton who did research on this matter. If you have mastered the correct way of eating fruits, you have the Secret of beauty, longevity, health, energy, happiness and normal weight.

To drink fruit juice, drink only fresh fruit juice, NOT from the cans. Don’t even drink juice that has been heated up. Don’t eat cooked fruits because you don’t get the nutrients at all. You only get to taste. Cooking destroys all the vitamins.

But eating a whole fruit is better than drinking the juice. If you drink the juice, drink it mouthful by mouthful slowly to let it mix with your saliva before swallowing it. You can go on a 3-day fruit fast to cleanse your body. Just eat fruits and drink fruit juice throughout the 3 days and you will be surprised when your friends tell you how radiant you look!

Examples of Fruits To Eat

KIWI: Tiny but mighty. This is a good source of potassium, magnesium, vitamin E & fiber. Its vitamin C content is twice that of an orange.

APPLE: Although an apple has low vitamin C content, it has antioxidants & flavonoids which enhance the activity of vitamin C thereby helps lower the risks of colon cancer, heart attack & stroke.

STRAWBERRY: Protective Fruit. Strawberries have the highest total antioxidant power among major fruits. It protects the body from cancer-causing, blood vessel-clogging free radicals.

ORANGE: Sweetest medicine. Taking 2-4 oranges a day may help keep colds away, lower cholesterol, prevent & dissolve kidney stones as well as lessens the risk of colon cancer.

WATERMELON is coolest thirst quencher. Composed of 92 percent water, it is packed with a giant dose of glutathione, which helps boost our immune system. They are also a key source of lycopene — the cancer fighting oxidant. Watermelon is rich in vitamin C and Potassium.

GUAVA & PAPAYA: They are rich of vitamin C. Guava is also rich in fiber which helps prevent constipation. Papaya is rich in carotene, good for your eyes.

Drinking Cold water after a meal - Cancer! Can you believe this?? For those who like to drink cold water, this article is applicable to you. It is nice to have a cup of cold drink after a meal. However, the cold water will solidify the oily stuff that you have just consumed. It will slow down the digestion. Once this ‘sludge’ reacts with the acid, it will break down and be absorbed by the intestine faster than the solid food. It will line the intestine. Very soon, this will turn into fats and lead to cancer. It is best to drink hot soup or warm water after a meal. /MP

Boracay Bids To Host Asian Beach Games

The Malay council, which has a jurisdiction over this resort island, has revived their bid to host the 4th Asian beach games that are scheduled to be held in the country in 2013.

The Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) has originally chosen Boracay Island to be the official venue for the 4th Asian beach games during their general assembly held in Doha, Qatar in December 2006. The OCA, however, changed its mind for an unclear reason.

The OCA, in coordination with the Philippine Olympic Committee and the Philippine Sports Commission, is expected to roam around the country soon to look for a suitable venue for the Asian beach games.

Report said, around 4,000 delegates from the 45 participating countries in Asia will be joining in the event.

"The council is confident that Boracay could meet the minimum requirements of the OCA for the duration of the event," said Malay Councilor Jonathan Cabrerra, who has officially filed a resolution for the bid.

Copies of the resolution will be forwarded to both the POC and the PSC for their information (and support).

Already, Boracay hosted various interna-tional sports events such as kite boarding, windsurfing, and fun board among others. (PNA)　/MP

No-Sex Zone Threatened After Philippines Scandal

The Philippine authorities may ban sex on the world-famous beaches of Boracay island after a television crew filmed two naked couples making out in public on New Year’s Day, Malay Mayor John Yap said Thursday this week.

The clip showed one pair apparently having sex on the beach and the other locked in a passionate kiss in the water, with the woman’s bare breasts clearly shown above the waterline.

The ABS-CBN television network said it filmed the apparently Western couples at 2:00 o’clock in the morning on New Year’s Day following a large beachside party on Boracay to usher in 2011.

"We’re thinking of a ‘no sex on the beach’ (rule) so the other tourists would not be scandalised," John Yap, mayor of Malay town that has jurisdiction over Boracay, told ABS-CBN in an interview posted on its website this week.

Yap said authorities were aware of the sensitivities of the devoutly Roman Catholic nation.

"It’s an isolated case and quite difficult to control but, if police had seen them, they would have been arrested for public scandal," he said.

In a brief phone call with AFP on Thursday, Yap confirmed the quotes.

Filipina film star and talk show television host Ruffa Gutierrez, who said she was vacationing with her two young children at Boracay over the New Year, expressed disgust at the holiday makers’ over-exuberance.

"I don’t want my children to be doing those things (public sex acts) one day," she told ABS-CBN.

"For me, it’s just not right." Boracay draws about 650,000 tourists every year, or about 22 percent of the country’s total visitor traffic, according to tourist ministry data. (AFP - Thursday, January 6)

Proud To Be Aklanon

by MEGS LUNN

An alternative mechanism for revenue generation in tourism is marketing and serious promotions of our Aklan products. Most of the time, we only market attractions by encouraging educational visits, providing venues for corporate hospitality, hosting high-profile events, giving privileges and discounts, meetings but only seldom on product launching.

Mostly, a tropical image of paradise is the three "S", SUN, SEA and SAND. In all aspects of tourism, marketing is central to the success of attractions, and that includes offering the ingenuity of Aklanon products.

WOM – or word-of-mouth is luckily still the best and most powerful marketing tool of any attractions and products. Since our Aklan’s jewel – BORACAY ISLAND is now a brand resort island in the Philippines, we can market our SUN, SEA AND SAND, while we can’t do something about our beloved Aklanon products. Much of its marketing is done tediously by its enterprise owners - "sariling-kayod" so to speak. Well, it works for bigger businessmen, how about our small-medium entrepreneurs?

In Kalibo, Hugod Akean, Incorporated or HUGOD is a secondary organization of private micro, small and medium enterprises which is into the loom weaving, processed food, and furniture industries among others. It is run by volunteers who are also owners/operators of these member enterprises. It is in existence for almost a decade now. The more developed and profitable enterprises act as lead firm and big brother to the smaller and developing members.

The Hugod Akean helps develop these enterprises into more profitable ventures through promotion and marketing of products. It links with government agencies and private institutions to access financial, technical and marketing assistance. Hugod operates in its Main office in Kalibo, the capital town of Aklan.

On the other hand, Baligyaan is a quaint little shop selling Aklanon works of art, crafts, souvenirs and processed foods. Homemade snacks and delicacies can also be enjoyed while browsing through their collection of Aklanon classic and contemporary literature. Baligyaan is located at Pastrana Street, Kalibo, Aklan. While there is also the Kalipayan Store along Roxas Avenue, native and handicraft stores at the Kalibo Wet Market. The Dela Cruz House of Pina is located at Crossing Buswang, Kalibo.

We call our resort and travel operators to include our Aklan products. The promotion of products being produced in Aklan is quite weak. There is no Aklanon products on display at the Boracay Tourist Center. It is ridiculous! Our most popularly known Pina cloths are being recognized as far as the elite and crème of the crème of not only from the Philippines, but also abroad. Still, we are slow and weak in consideration the marketing aspects of it.

In China, there is this cloth that is almost an imitation of our Pina cloth and is selling like hot-cakes because of its competitive price, its way-lower than our original piña-cloth. We must adopt and implement effective marketing strategies to cajole the costumers to patronize Aklanon products.

We need to be better each day when it comes to product innovation and development. This requires bigger investments and effective promotions. We need to start from within in order to make other people believe that we genuinely love our Aklan products. There is the need to know our Filipino product, our own Aklan product, what its worth and why it is worth it to buy and use it.

For enterprise owners, it is advisable to improve standards must be appealing to customers. It is must be equal if not superior to any similar product internationally, understanding the wider market and the supply of competing products, and being able to innovate. /MP

National SK Federation Elects Legaspi Director

SK Provincial Federation President Bob Augusto F. Legaspi was elected Regional Director for Western Visayas of the Pambansang Pederasyon ng mga Sangguniang Kabataan. He was elected during the National SK Federation election held at Bayview Park Hotel, Roxas, Boulevard, Manila last week.

Legaspi is on his first year as Sangguniang Panlalawigan member being the SK Provincial Federation President. He was elected unopposed during the SK Provincial Election last December 10, 2010 held in the newly renovated capitol main building, Kalibo.

The official recognition was done during the 22nd regular session of the Aklan Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) on December 16, 2010, when Legaspi attended the SP regular session as one among the members of the new SP (2010-2013).

Bob Augusto M. Legaspi is a municipal SK federation president of Makato, Aklan. The son of Mr. Bobby Clyde Maravilla Legaspi and Mrs. Babeelon Cipriano Fernandez-Legaspi. Bob Augusto is studying at the University of the Philippines, Miag-ao, Iloilo taking up Bachelor of Science Major in Economics. /MP

EDITORIAL

God Created Aklan River Beautiful

by ERNESTO T. SOLIDUM

Three massive infrastructure projects are planned to be implemented by District Engineers’ Office (DEO) for Aklan river flood control in 2012. OIC District Engr. Roberto J. Cabigas said that investment will cost P150 million to rivet river bank wall in critical flood prone areas. They are in Numancia (P50 m), Kalibo (P50 m) and Kalibo-Banga corridor (P50 m). The total length of each project covers 750 linear meters.

Since typhoon Frank struck on June 21, 2008, public awareness and concerns are raised to prevent or mitigate catastrophic floods. Paglaum fund originally set at P1.1 billion by Ms. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo turned out to be only P100 million. The management of fund was done by DPWH, Region VI which awarded the contract to International Builders Corp. (IBC) to dredge 185,000 cubic meters of gravel and sand in Bulwang and Bakhao Norte over a seven month period starting April 2010.

As of June 25, 2010, the project is 27.0 percent completed but surprisingly up to this date, the final completion has never been realized. It is good that floodwaters are tamed this year but majority of our people are upset and jittery every time heavy down pour occurs consecutively for four or five days.

The on going investigation by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Aklan based on Res. No. 2010-152 could only be futile and self serving. Nothing concrete and substantial has come out of Senate and House panel investigations like payola and jueteng scandals. Can our legislators of Aklan be different?

Where Did Our Money Go?

It might be true that the capacity of dredging equipment of IBC is 1,500 cubic meters per day (10 working hours). Likewise, contractor is competent and reliable. However, at the end of the day, we Aklanons who are his employers find that actually nothing was done; it could be appalling indeed. What on earth happened? Just where did our money go?

Common sense dictates that dredging operation must not be undertaken in running bodies of water. Otherwise, this will immediately be filled up by sediment deposits upstream. Dredging and reclamation projects in Manila Bay were successful because water movements were slight and hose conveyors directed water and sand flow at a considerable distance from the seashore. Of course this was promptly secured by a long revetment wall.

The above stated precautionary measures are not instituted in the dredging activity of IBC. It makes no sense that our scant financial resources could ever be wasted on such a worthless project. Whoever thought of this quixotic foray must be summarily dismissed from the career service. He or she can even be charged before the Professional Regulation Commission and if convicted divested of his title.

River Face Make Pretty

River erosion and siltation have caused directional flow of the Aklan river to swerve from previous trajectory at the Eastern approach of the bridge to the Western section. This means pressure mounts on land mass of Bulwang and Pusiw of Numancia and Liboton (separated sitio of Brgy. Bakhaw Norte, Kalibo) to be reclaimed by the Aklan river. Ultimately, the old river course at Bulwang creek which has long dried up may be traversed.

The above chilling scenario may take 20-30 years from now if authorities fail to institute mitigating measures. So far, dangerous trend could only be effectively managed by hydro-electric dam located in Libacao and Madalag (if constructed) because water flow could be regulated and diverted.

Here in Aklan, our perennial problem is flood and more floods. Significantly, barangays like Tinigao, Mobo, Bakhao Norte, and Bakhao Sur have decreasing land areas due to river erosion. Global warming is a potent force in all weather disturbances. It is unfortunate that our leaders fail to recognize the full economic benefits of the Aklan river ecosystem.

The leading developing economies such as China, Brazil, and India have exploited their big rivers to their advantage by constructing hydropower, irrigation, transport, recreation, fish stocking and conservation, domestic water supply and tourism. China’s three Gorges dam are excellent examples. Taiwan, a small island is leading the world in its utilization of freshwater resources. United Nations experts predict that serious water crisis will become the world’s biggest problem in this 21st century.

Figuratively, we have only skimmed the tip of the iceberg of wondrous opportunities cited above. Crude prototypes are irrigation (NIA), domestic water supply (MKWD), recreation/tourism (wild river bamboo rafting in hinterlands of Libacao), transport of agricultural products (bamboo poles, abaca, bananas, and root crops) and hydropower (mini hydro electric projects under construction in Libacao).

It may be underscored that our power requirement grows steadily at 5 percent per year and yet we still rely on fossil fuels that are expensive and environmentally destructive. Tapping into this veritable resource could bring lifetime benefits to our people and succeeding generation. The face of a river is not always ugly but can be made beautiful by those who care for it. /MP

Entrepreneurial Farmer

Ambrosio R. Villorente

MKWD Rates Increase

Seriously speaking, concessionaires of Metro Kalibo Water District (MKWD) will enjoy paying additional expenses without equivalent increase in the quality and quantity of water delivered.

MKWD has announced in its notice to our valued concessionaires thus "please be informed that effective January 2011 consumption" or "February Billing Our New Water rates schedule for Kalibo are as follows" (please see the rate on page 3)

The notice is very tricky. It did not say, "the water rates are increased". It only said "the new water rates schedule for Kalibo area". It did not also print the previous rates as basis for comparison.

But when I checked my water bills for December 2010 it revealed: due date – January 12, 2011, present reading – 995, previous reading – 994, bill amount – P340, meter rental – P10.

The data above show I consumed one cubic meter for the period December 1, 2010 to January 2, 2011. With this one cubic meter consumption, I am asked to pay P340 or for its minimum consumption of 10 cubic meters a month.

This means P34 per cubic meter. Moreover, MKWD charges P10 per month for meter rental. MKWD charges me a total of P350 for one cubic meter of water consumed monthly. I had been paying this for the last three years.

Should I fail to pay the P350 on the due date which is on Jan. 12, 2011, P34 or 10 percent of the bill will be added as penalty. If MKWD fails to receive my payment, the water connection will be disconnected on January 17 or five days after its due date.

This is threatening. It is horrible and dreadful. My water connection classifi-cation is "commercial/industrial, one half inch in diameter pipe. MKWD in its new water rates will charge me P410 minimum. This means per cubic meter of water cost P41. Comparing to the previous rate of P34 per cubic meter, there is a seven pesos (P7) increase or 21 percent. This is skinning a concessionaire alive.

　
MKWD 2007 Report

This writer wishes to thank the management of Metro Kalibo Water District (MKWD) for honoring his request for a copy of its latest Annual Performance Report. Thank you very much Mr. Renato T. Albar, General Manager for providing Entrepreneurial Farmer the 2007 report four months after letter request was sent in September. A follow request was sent in December 2010 and a copy of its audited 2007 report was received on December 10.

Rich MKWD

I was lucky to secure the 2007 performance report from its. Gen. Manager Renato Albar. I was told the 2008 and 2009 are not available as they are still being audited.

Thank you manager Albar. The 2007 is useful to us. It reveals that as of December 31, 2007, MKWD has a total asset of P330,649,701.34. It increased by P17 million or 7.97 percent over 2006.

In year 2007, its gross income was P94,615,314.82. It also spent P78,323,541.13 or a net income (before income tax) of P17,145,965.90. The operational expenses were for personal services of P29,220,718.80; for maintenance and other operating expenses – P32,964,677.51 and financial expenses P16,138,144.82.

While MKWD’s net income was P17.5 million in 2007, it is probable that it has also equal or higher net annual income in 2008, 2009, and 2010. The 2007 figures show, MKWD increased its 2007 net income over 2006 operation by P9.5 million or 121.57 percent. For the last three years, MKWD management appears to have improved and therefore got more net income.

If MKWK is making more money until 2010, why increase its water rates schedules? /MP

Aklan’s Pretty Girls

by CHRISTY ANN NAVARRA

Mutya it Kalibo Ati-Atihan 2011 Caren Retamar Braun (center) with first runner-up Mae Ann Manipud and second runner-up Charmaine Ling Chua after their coronation during the coronation pageant held at Augusto B. Legaspi Sports Complex, Kalibo on Wednesday evening, January 5. )

Caren Retamar Braun, 17 of New Washington, Aklan was crowned Mutya it Kalibo Ati-Atihan 2011 in the evening, January 5 during the pageant and coronation night held at Gov. Augusto B. Legaspi Sports Complex, Kalibo, Aklan. Mae Ann Mariano Manipud of Nabas, Aklan is the first runner-up, and Charmaine Ling Palomata Chua of Kalibo, second runner-up.

There are 12 radiant, pretty, and stunning Aklanon ladies who competed in the beauty contest organized by Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-Atihan Foundation, Inc. (KASAFI) headed by Mr. Albert Acevedo Meñez and the local government of Kalibo, led by Kalibo Mayor William S. Lachica.

Braun is bestowed the title "Ambassadress of Goodwill and Tourism". Aklan Governor Carlito S. Marquez with Vice Gov. Gabrielle V. Calizo-Quimpo, Hon. William S. Lachica and Hon. Madeline Regalado crowned Ms. Braun "Mutya It Kalibo Ati-Atihan" 2011. She also won major awards: Best in Swimwear, and Best in Talent. Moreover, she also got corporate awards for Miss Maxi Peel and Miss Ever Belena.

Ms. Manipud of Nabas, 1st runner-up, is awarded Best in Long Gown; while Ms. Chua of Kalibo, 2nd runner-up, won the corporate awards for Miss Ponds, Miss Skin White, Miss Personality and Miss Globe. Other winners of special awards are Janine Magbiro Ilio – Best in Production Number, Frendisol Catherine Villanueva Yco – Miss Photogenic, Sheen Mae Bagnate Zafra – Miss Friendship, and Jecca Rosales Tenajas – Best in Interview.

Packages of prizes to Mutya it Kalibo Ati-Atihan 2011 include P30,000 cash, overnight accommodations at Shangri-La Boracay Resort and Spa, Aklan Sampaguita Gardens and La Esperanza Hotel, gift certificate from Mandala Spa Boracay, round trip tickets from Cebu Pacific Air, gift items from Century Pacific, Cheryl Macahilas-Hartley (Mark and Spencer) products, and cellphone kit from Kok’s Kalibo.

Governor Marquez in his speech commended Mr. Albert Meñez of KASAFI and all the people behind the event who gave all out support to the Province of Aklan. Marquez also lauded Mutya it Kalibo Ati-Atihan candidates, their parents, and supporters for their sacrifices and efforts in promoting "Amazing Aklan".

GMA Kapuso Actor Wendell Ramos serenaded the 12 finalists on stage. Ms. Gaynor Calizo and Mr. Giljan Torres hosted the pageant. /MP

Boracay Needs More Food And Agriculture Products

Boracay Island resort needs more agriculture products to complement the needed consumption of tourists this year, 2011.

Engr. Roger Esto, Aklan provincial planning officer said, "the province’s available agricultural products are not enough for the needed demand for food and other agricultural products such as fruits and vegetables including aqua products.

Boracay will continue to import food from nearby provinces such as Romblon, Iloilo, Antique, Capiz and even from Davao and Baguio City."

"For the past years, our local government has tried to boost agricultural production by encouraging farmers to plant high-grade vegetables and fruits. Even these endeavors could not augment the needed consumptions of tourists for food and agriculture products," Esto stressed.

The Aklan State University (ASU) which is considered the center for excellence of agriculture in Western Visayas could not also augment the agriculture demand here. (ASU has not develop graduates capable to produce enough commercial food for the people and visitors.)

The Department of Tourism projected some 800,000 tourist arrivals in Boracay last year and an increase up to one million by 2012.

"We continue to encourage residents to produce more food to help fill in the agriculture supply for Boracay as their added family income through backyard gardening, fruits and livestock production and even in ornamental production", reported Esto. (PNA)

Ikamayad It Boracay Ro Marina Project

Site of the 2.6 hectares Marina reclamation area in Caticlan, Malay.

Gin pahayag ni Atty. Ronquillo C. Tolentino nga ikamayad it Boracay ro "Marina Project" o ro gina tawag nga "Proposed Renovation/Rehabilitation of the Caticlan Passenger Terminal Building and Jetty Port, Enhancement and Recovery of Old Caticlan Coastline, Reclamation of a Portion of Foreshore (Marina Project) in Malay, Aklan Ro "Marina Project" hay gina patikasog it gobiyerno provincial it Aklan sa pamuno ni Gobernador Carlito S. Marquez.

Ginsunod man ag gintapos eon ro kinahangeanon it 2.64 hectares nga proyekto rason nga gintaw-an it "clearance" sa Philippine Reclamation Authority nga magpadyon it "reclamation project" ro Caticlan Jetty Port. Hataw-an man ko DENR Environmental Management Bureau ro proyekto it "Environmental Compliance Certificate" ko Abril 27, 2010 pagkatapos nga masumitir ro Environmental Impact Assessment. Naka consultasyon man ro "Provincial Management Committee" nga gina pamunu-an ni Gobernador Carlito S. Marquez sa gobiyerno municipal it Malay, Sangguniang Bayan it Malay, Barangay Caticlan, Boracay Foundation, Inc. (BFI) ag ro "tri-media". Raya ro duggang nga hinambae ni Atty. Tolentino.

Si Atty. Allen S. Quimpo ag Atty. Ronquillo C. Tolentino nakipagkita man it daywang beses sa tri-media sa Cafe Latte ag sa ginhiwat nga Kapihan sa Aklan. Ko Disyembre 11, 2010 nakipag conferencia si Atty. Allen S. Quimpo sa mga "municipal officials" it Malay idto sa Boracay hanungod sa Marina Project.

Ginhambae ni Atty. Tolentino nga owa eon it "legal question" ro Marina Project" ay hasunod ro tanan nga "legal requirements". Ro "Marina Project" hay sa ikamayad man it Boracay ag ro "scientific findings" hay nagapahayag ag nagasaysay nga owa man ro proyekto it igata-o nga halit o problema sa Boracay. Eabaw sa tanan, ro proyekto hay sa ikamayad it Boracay, maga dugang ro "employment" ag makapanan-aw man it publiko ag privado nga "partnership" sa gobiyerno probinsyal sandig man sa "development agenda" it national government, hambae pa ni Tolentino.

Sandig sa Republic Act 7160 o ro Local Government Code it 1991, ro mga probinsya ag mga ciudad ro maka sueod sa "reclamation".

Ro "reclamation" hay nabuhat it mga naciones. Suno kay Atty. Tolentino, United Kingdom nga gina componehan it England, Northern Ireland, Wales and Scotland hay sigedas ro "reclamation". Sa ka-aeamon nahanungod sa natabu o "history", ro "reclamation" sa United Kingdom hay nag umpisa pa ko 6th B.C." Sige man ro "reclamation" sa France, ro pagpa-obra it mga dueongka-an it barko. Ina man ro "reclamation: sa Netherlands o Holland, ag sa sige-sige nga "reclamation: sa Singapore.

Gindugang ni Atty. Tolentino ro mga "reclamation: sa pagpa-ora it Hongkong Disneyland ag Hongkong International Airport, ro Japan International Airport, ro Palu Deira sa Dubai nga imaw ro pinaka mabahoe nga isla sa kalibutan nga halin sa "reclamation". Imaw man ro Kansai International Airport sa Osaka Japan ag ro famoso nga Changi International Airport, Singapore. Ina man ron sa "Sunken Garden sa Vancouver Canada. /MP

Aklan Remains Peaceful In Holiday Season

Aklan police provincial director Senior Supt. Epifanio Bragais, Jr. said the New Year and Christmas celebration all over Aklan province was generally peaceful. Only three related firecracker incidents with minor injuries happened compared to 13 recorded firecracker incidents and one incident for stray bullet in Brgy Manhanip, Malinao, Aklan.

"I ordered my local police to strictly monitor and regulate the use of firecrackers, to confiscate those prohibited items such as piccolo, pla-pla and unlabeled or illegal firecrackers during Christmas and New Year celebration," Bragais added.

Among the illegal firecrackers seized by APPO in 13 municipalities are whistle bomb, pla-pla and piccolo, which victimized children below 13 years old which is in violation of Republic Act No. 7183, "Regulating the Sale, Manufacture and Distribution and Use of Firecrackers and other Pyrotechnic Devices".

Apart from the enormous campaign by Aklan Police Provincial Office (APPO) through strict implementation of Republic Act 7183, the Provincial Health Office (PHO) was 100 percent ready to assist any firecracker related injuries referred to the hospital for immediate treatment.

Dr. Emma Cortes, Provincial Health Officer II, said the incidents marks 72 percent decrease compared to last year’s figure of 13 incidents caused by firecrackers and at least three people were admitted in the provincial hospital due to stabbing.

Cortes attributed the decrease in the number of injuries to the efforts and intensified campaign of the law enforcement officers, media, local government and health officials against illegal pyrotechnics and firecrackers in welcoming the New Year.

To prevent indiscriminate firing, the local police sealed their service firearms in compliance with the directive of Philippine National Police (PNP).

"The taping of the muzzle is done to make sure their government-issued firearms were not used indiscriminately for the New Year celebration. This is also to remind our personnel of the consequences if they engaged in indiscriminate firing," PSupt Bragais said during the Traditional Monday Flag Raising Ceremony. (by PO2 Nida L. Gregas) /MP

Reason & Concern

by Ronquillo C. Tolentino

Ring In The New!

The yearly Christmas party of Aklan’s monolith party, Tibyog Akean on December 21, 2010 categorically brought forth a message – that in the May 2013 elections, incumbent Aklan Congressman Florencio T. Miraflores shall run for Aklan provincial governor while Aklan Governor Carlito S. Marquez shall aspire for Aklan Congressman. The incumbent Aklan cong-ressman and governor are both serving their respective third terms.

As it stands, although it shall be two (2) years before the 2013 elections, no political opposition is on the horizon to challenge Miraflores and Marquez. An opposition has yet to have to an embryonic start. The result of the 2010 Aklan local elections consigned the opposition to a rather surprising silence.

I do not necessarily make political comments in view of the Christmas spirit. But then, an Aklan opposition is really nowhere in sight. I do not say that it is already moribund.
It is really evident in the province’s political environs.

Alfred Lord Tennyson’s In Memoriam (1850) started in 1833 and was completed in 1849. In Memoriam is actually a long elegy on the death of Hallam. Almost universally acclaimed as a masterpiece, it revealed categorically Tennyson’s personal thoughts on God. Too, Tennyson manifest in no uncertain terms his belief of Christ, of immortality and the import of loss.

From In Memoriam is the poem Ring Out, Wild Bells.

The passing of the years had not made me oblivious of this poem which is appropriate to be recited as New Year comes. Ring Out, Wild Bells by Alfred Lord Tennyson
　
"Ring out, wild bells, to the wild sky,
The flying cloud, the frosty light;
The year is dying in the night;
Ring out, wild bells, and let him die.
"Ring out the old, right in the new,
Ring, happy bells, across the snow;
The year is going, let him go;
Ring out the false, right in the true.
"Ring out the grief that saps the mind,
For those that here we see no more;
Ring out the feud of rich and poor,
Ring in redress to all mankind.
"Ring out a slowly dying cause,
And ancient forms of party strife;
Ring in the nobler modes of life,
With sweeter manners, purer laws.
"Ring out the want, the care, the sin,
The faithless coldness of the times;
Ring out, ring out my mournful rhymes,
But ring the fuller minstrel in.
"Ring out false pride in place and blood,
The civic slander and the spite;
Ring in the love of truth and right,
Ring in the common love of good.
"Ring out old shapes of foul disease;
Ring out the narrowing lust of gold;
Ring out the thousand wars of old,
Ring in the thousand years of peace.
Ring in the valiant man and free,
The larger heart, the kindlier hand;
Ring out the darkness of the land,
Ring in the Christ that is to be."
　 Happy New Year!

‘God Is Our Last Hope’

by ALEX P. VIDAL

VANCOUVER, British Columbia – "We are clinging for our last hope to God)," cried Ricelia Santiago, 56, mother of 27-year-old overseas contract worker (OFW) and cancer patient John Nino, now bed-ridden at the Vancouver General Hospital."

Santiago, a housekeeper from Marilao, Bulacan, arrived in Canada last December 12 on a temporary visa. Her husband, Alfredo, a driver in the Philippines, arrived here last October 28.

"We still believe in the miracle of God," remarked Santiago, her voice shaking.

Husband and wife are taking care of John Nino, whose spine tumor developed into brain cancer.

John Nino, a supervisor of Dairy Queen in Merritt, British Columbia, has been in Canada since November 8, 2008.

"It all started as a headache," narrated John Nino. "Then I had hydrocephalus or excess of fluid in my brain and I was in and out of the hospital in June (2010)."

He suffered head and back pains in June and July. In August, he had seizure.

After a series of CT scan and laboratory tests in Sept. he contracted tuberculosis and the infection spread in his spine.

The tumor spread and went to his brain. After a series of brain surgeries, doctors informed him his case was "malignant" and gave him one and a half years to live. John Nino said doctors have given up on him and refused to subject him to chemotherapy and radiation in order to prevent his condition from deteriorating fast.

　
‘I STILL WANT TO
LIVE, LORD’

"Doctors explained to me chemotherapy can only cure up to 10 percent of the disease, while radiation is 50 percent but will make me weak," John Nino said.

"When I received the bad news, I immediately went outside to eat my lunch and pray. "I appealed to the Lord to help me because I still have many plans in life; I still want to help my mother and father. I still want to live."

He said only his right leg is moving while is left leg has been paralyzed.

"Everyday, I massage his legs. I won’t give up. I want my son to live. I know he can make it," the mother wailed hysterically.

John Nino is the youngest of the three Santiago children. His older sisters Maricel Ramiscal, 34; and Grace Monghit, 32, both married, are working in Singapore.

He is single. John Nino, who also worked in Singapore before moving to Canada, split with his girlfriend, Cristina Moulic, in August this year when his ailment was getting worst.

He and Moulic, now working in Penang, Malaysia, had been sweethearts for one year. "The relationship has contributed in my headache," John Nino disclosed.

He has three wishes for Christmas: to be able to survive and recover; to be able to stay and work in Canada; and treat his parents to a dinner with crispy pata.

"My faith is strong. I won’t give up," he concluded. /MP

Sugilanon Ni Tita Linda

Ni Tita Linda Belayro

Pinakamabahoe Nga Bueak

Dungan sa pag-ugsad it buean, nagbukead man ro pinakamabahoe nga bueak sa kaharian ni Reyna Petalya. Ro solo nga nakasayod ko pag buskad it rayang bueak hay ro mga duwende sa idaeum it eogta. Owa man it nakasayod nga sa pagbukead it bueak hay naga sabwag man it grasya para sa mga guin pintasan, ag guina daug-daug. Inabutan it sanggatos nga dag-on parabil mag- bukead ro bueak ngara.

Ko mga oras ngaron, abo guid ro naka gapos sa gahum it mga kapre ag higante. Sanda ro may kagamhanan. Maskin ro reyna hay sa idaeum pa ko andang gahum.

Isaeang adlaw, nagpahangin-hangin ro reyna sa anang hardin. Masubo guid imaw tongod naeo-oy imaw sa anang nasakupan. Hakita nana nga nagbuskad eon ro pinakamabahoe nga bueak. Habatyagan nanang mingko guina toeod imaw nga tan-awon kon ano ro sueod it bueak. Hakita nana ro mga bato nga maputi sa sueod.

Hadumduman nana ro suguilanon ko anang lola nga mabuhay eong nagtaliwan hanungod sa pagbukead it pinaka mabahoe nga bueak nga may kon ano nga bagay ikaw nga makita. Ro bagay ngaron hay maka bulag.

Dali-dali nana nga guin tipon ro mga bato, guin putos it panyo, guin sueod sa anang dughan agod indi makita it mga higante. Guin patawag nana ro anang hardinero ag guin sugo nga taw-an it bato ro kada preso nga soldado agod maka guwa sanda tanan sa presuhan.

Bangod indi eon sanda makita, naghimo sanda it madaeum nga kut-kot, guin butangan it mata-eawis nga sibat sa idaeum. Pagkasayod ko mga higante nga nakaguwa ro tanan nga preso, naakig sanda ag nag gueowa agod eagson ro mga bihag. Ogaling, pag abot nanda sa guwa it palasyo, owa nanda hapan-uhi ro mga kut-kot nga may mataeawis nga sibat. Guin eu-ad ro bato nga guina um-um it mga soldado. Naghugyaw ro tanan tongod nakalibre eon sanda sa gahum ko mga mapintas nga higante. /MP

Diocese of Kalibo Holds Diocesan Youth Conference

by MARK ANTHONY LEYSON

The Diocesan Commission on Youth Diocese of Kalibo held the 2nd Diocesan Youth Conference on December 29, 2010 at Aklan Catholic Collage Gym, Kalibo, Aklan. The conference centered on the theme: "Young people: Disciple of the Lord, Transforming the World".

The Catholic Bishop Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) in its Plenary Assembly on July 2010 declared the year 2011 as the CBCP Year of the Youth on the occasion of the Episcopal Commission on Youth’s 25th Anniversary with the theme: "Stands firm in faith…Do all your work in love", KABATAAN TAON NATIN ‘TO!

Diocesan Youth Conference is the gathering of the youth ministers, youth leader’s coordinators and members from the different parishes of the Diocese of Kalibo. This gathering is done every year to enhance the spiritual life and growth of the young people of the Diocese. The one day event consisted of series of activities highlighted with prayers and holy masses Rev. Fr. Ulysses I. Dalida officiated, with Rev. Fr. Glenn C. Magpusao, Diocesan Youth Director, and Rev. Fr. Edwin Chio, Parochial Vicar of St. Raphael the Archangel Parish of Balete as co-celebrants.

There were simultaneous animation or dancing of praises, fellowship, open forum, and sharing of experiences as young disciples of God. Interaction among fellow young people from the different parishes of the Diocese was also done. The talk of the speaker, Rev. Fr. Glenn C. Magpusao was most important. He focused his talk on the importance of the youths in our society today, and what can young people do to develop their spiritual lives as young disciples of God.

The Diocesan Youth Conference was also the celebration of friendship, to experience oneness with all young people of the Diocese in decision making and personal commitment for the betterment of today’s society, to go forward despite discouragement to see oneself as worthwhile, valuable and unique person to get through conflicts, to comprehend reality and to grow in depth of individual consciousness and to express life to their fellow youth. /MP

DAR Executive Retires With Honors

by ULYSSES ESPARTERO

After 22 years with the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) Aklan, Atty. Daniel Y. Martelino is retiring as Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer (PARO) II.

Martelino assumed the post in 1988. He helped many farmers uplift their poor living to self-sufficiency.

Former Aklan Vice Governor Ronquillo C. Tolentino said that Martelino deserves commendation for his exemplary leadership, distinguished career, and esteemed standing in public service.

"He could have lived in a more prestigious and financially rewarding life had he accepted other government posts but Atty. Martelino chose and served his fellow Aklanons, Kalibonhons in particular, in the best way he knows possible for which we, proud Aklanons, are truly grateful," Tolentino stressed.

Tolentino and Martelino were colleagues at the municipal council of Kalibo.

It was through Martelino’s leadership that a great number of Aklanons especially the agrarian reform beneficiaries benefited from the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) through its landmark physical infrastructure projects worth over Php100 million in Aklan.

This includes the construction of 26 farm-to-market roads spanning 76 kilometers worth Php148 million; building of seven (7) irrigation projects worth Php48.5 million watering 1,493 hectares of riceland.

Through CARP, the DAR Aklan was able to distribute 20,857 hectares of land to 22,544 farmer beneficiaries thus brought meaningful changes into their lives.

DAR Aklan was awarded as an Outstanding Agency during the term of then Governor now Cong. Florencio T. Miraflores.

Prior to his appointment to DAR, Atty. Martelino was municipal councilor of Kalibo, first Personnel Officer of Aklan province in 1977 during the time of then Governor Roberto "Nono" Garcia, Assistant Branch Attorney for 10 years of the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP), Area Manager for Western Visayas in the then Ministry of Human Settlements, and Area Manager of the Presidential Management Staff for Region VI.

For his unquestionable integrity while in government service, Atty. Martelino was chosen as one of the 14 Outstanding Aklanons in 2008. /MP

Aklan Shifts Gear To Ati-atihan Preparations

After the successful Yuletide celebration, Aklan residents are now busy preparing for the Ati-atihan revelry this January.

Major event for the Ati-atihan is the Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-Atihan Festival considered the Mother of Philippine Festivals.

Another festivity is in Ibajay slated on the last week of January, considered as the original version of the Ati-atihan, even older than that of Kalibo.

Aside from these, Altavas, Makato, New Washington, Malinao and even Boracay Island are also celebrating their own version of the Ati-atihan festival.

"Right now, we are 80

percent more ready for the Kalibo Sto. Ati-atihan. We have already started decorating Kalibo with Ati-atihan signages and other decorations," said Albert Meñez, chairman of the Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-atihan Foundation Incorporated (KASAFI).

On January 5, the KASAFI spearheaded the pageant and coronation night of the Mutya it Kalibo Ati-atihan held at the ABL Sports Complex, Estancia, Kalibo. There were 12 finalists who competed in the said event.

Finalist Caren Braun is one of the most favorite finalists in the search, her being the sister of former national Miss Earth runner up Michelle Martha Braun.

"We promised spectators and revelers that this year’s Ati-atihan is a unique experience for everyone joining the festivity," Meñez said proudly. (PNA)

Aklanons in Canada Holds Induction

Aklanons in Vancouver, Canada recently held their oath taking ceremonies for the officers of the Aklanon Sto. Nino Association of British Columbia. Luzviminda Saluta Mcgillivray was installed President.

Assisting her are the other elected officers for 2010-2011 who are as follows: Joel Refol–Vice President, Kirve Wendale Lamsen–Secretary, Nida Rosero–Treasurer, Luzviminda Gomez Nicar–Asst. Secretary Treasurer; Florendo Villanueva–Auditor, Glen Sucro–Public Relations Officer, Rose Villanueva, Liza Napat, and Victor Castro–Business Managers, Teodolo Inamac and Cesar Sijera–Peace and Courtesy Officers, and Anne Lao Carpio, Ethel Ricafuente and Ellen Ureta Molo–Directors.

Vancouver City Councilor Andrea Reihman who represented Mayor Gregor Robertson inducted them. The Aklanons also participated in the recent Induction Ball and Party held at the St. Patrick Church in 2881 Main Street, Vancouver.

The association has been recognized for its annual Ati-atihan celebration. The 2011 e dition will be held on January 8.

Mayor Robertson described the Ati-Atihan event in Vancouver as spectacular and culturally unique. In 2009, he issued a proclamation declaring the second Saturday of January as Ati-atihan Day in Vancouver. The proclamation recognizes the growing role and strength of the Filipino-Aklanon community in Vancouver’s multi-racial and multi-cultural fabric.

"This Mardi Gras event organized by the Aklanon Sto. Niño Association of Canada is not only an opportunity for Filipinos to come together, enjoy a festive musical evening and welcome the New Year, but also a chance to showcase and preserve Filipino culture," the mayor stressed in his proclamation.

The provincial govern-ment believes that the benevolent act of Mayor Robertson deserves to be reciprocated and be known in the province of Aklan. Hence, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan under the leadership of Vice Governor Gabrielle V. Calizo-Quimpo approved a resolution thanking the Vancouver, British Columbia mayor for proclaiming January 10, 2009 as Ati-Atihan Day. /MP

Effective Campaign Against Illegal Firecrackers

The campaign against illegal firecrackers of the government agencies in Aklan was so effective. As of January 3, the Aklan Police Provincial Office (APPO) has recorded only two victims of firecracker injuries in Aklan.

In a radio interview over a local radio station in Kalibo, Police Sr. Supt. Samuel Nacion, Deputy Provincial Director for Administration, APPO, said the two victims are both from Kalibo. They only suffered minor firecracker injuries.

Supt. Nacion said the very significant decrease in the number of firecracker victims in Aklan for this year shows that the campaign made collectively by government agencies like the Department of Health (DOH), Philippine National Police (PNP), Department of Education (DepEd), Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Provincial Health Office (PHO) was very effective that resulted to a very small number of firecracker victims.

For the New Year celebration, the DOH and other concerned agencies campaigned strongly against letting children light firecrackers, with the theme "Ilayo sa Disgrasya ang Kabataan, Walang Batang Mag papaputok".

Meanwhile, the PNP is now investigating the case of a minor in Manhanip, Malinao, Aklan, who was hit in the elbow by a stray bullet allegedly coming from a Caliber 45 gun.

The bullet, according to Supt. Nacion, was already sent to the PNP Crime Laboratory for examination.

The incident reportedly happened at the height of the New Year revelry. (Venus G. Villanueva)