EDITORIAL

Managing Solid Wastes

by ERNESTO T. SOLIDUM

The weekly Kapihan on February 12, 2011 focused its attention on the state of ecological solid waste management in the premiere town of Kalibo, Aklan. Guests are Ms. Juliet Melgarejo, Chief, Municipal Economic Enterprise & Development Office (MEEDO), Ms. Adorada T. Reynaldo, PSO II, Dr. Emmet L. Custodio, Consultant on Health & Environment, and Mr. Abel Plicarpio, Market Administrator.

In his opening statement, Atty. Ronquillo C. Tolentino said that LGUs are mandated to fully implement RA 9003 or Ecological Solid Waste Management. Kalibo has enacted Municipal Ordinance No. 2009 – 004 which aims to adopt and implement a responsive ecological solid waste management program that is anchored on sound legislation. Benefits would redound to better health of the people and preservation of favorable environment.

The former Kalibo alderman cited the 1999 Payatas tragedy wherein 300 people died. This is a valuable lesson learned from our lapses in solid waste management.

Ms. Melgarejo said that MEEDO is a revenue generating entity composed of market, cash, tourism cultural affairs, public affairs, information and communication, agricultural services, transport and traffic management. It has a specific power to supervise personnel in the delivery of services including collection and disposal of garbage.

Ms. Reynaldo averred that implementation of RA 9300 is based on five E’s namely: Engineering, Education, Environmental, Education, Enforcement, and Equity. Successful outcome depends largely on how well components are finely tuned and integrated with each other.

The engineering aspect on waste segregation at Bakhao Sur is under construction. Education on solid waste segregation must begin at home, school or office where separate containers for biodegradable and recyclable wastes are kept.

Environmental education requires behavioral/attitude change in people churning out one-half kilogram of trash per person per day and law enforcers to be vigilant against saboteurs. The provincial capital’s population is noted to swell to one-third its size by day as a result of students and people doing businesses in the area. Kalibo Auxiliary Police (KAP) has been deputized to implement the ordinance.

Equity is economic aspect of recovering sizeable investment. The dirty jobs division hopes to convert trash into good use particularly fertilizer, recycled products and methane gas.

Mr. Policarpio confirmed that the wet market is the biggest generator of solid wastes. Presently, it is a pilot area that entails full com-plement of market cleaners 16 hours a day. The spirit of normalcy and orderliness had finally come to the facility where shopping is enjoyable and wholesome.

Health and sanitation were voiced out by Dr. Custodio to warn the public of tragic con-sequences if basic safeguards are not met. He said that hospitals, private clinics and funeral parlors must comply with sanitary disposal of their pathological and chemical wastes. These entities must provide their own septic tank and or incinerator.

Waste segregation at the source should be implemented now rather than await final completion of engineering works at open dumpsite in Bakhao Sur. The policy of no segregation, no collection implemented in cities like Baguio, Puerto Princcesa, and elsewhere could be strong motivation for citizens to comply with provisions of the law.
Following the Greenpeace findings that the sea has become reservoir of trash especially plastic, lawmakers must pass legislation to outlaw the use of plastic containers and wrappers mostly used in commerce. Non biodegradable wastes emit poisonous substances, clog drainage, and septic tanks and responsible for accidental death of porpoises, whales and dolphins.

Instead, bayongs made of buri, baskets (rattan, nitto, bamboo) and wrappers (newspaper, banana leaves) are preferred because they are environmental and budget friendly. It is distinctly Filipino and evokes feeling of nationalism and pride.

Anti littering ordinance must be given teeth by law enforcers. Cigarette butt throwing violation is a fine of P200 while wrapping material exacts P400. Perhaps those who could not pay the fine must be required to undertake street cleaning services for a day or two.

It is reported that only four garbage trucks are now operational because a few was retired from active service. This is the main reason why some areas are not routinely serviced on scheduled dates. Imagine the stinking garbage in your house if not disposed within 10-14 days? Cogent need is for Mayor William Lachica to maintain adequate number of garbage trucks to collect segregated wastes on specified days.

Once implemented, Material Recovery Facility (MRF) managed by Barangay Councils will have their hands full in turning waste into gold. Perhaps an inter-barangay contest cold be held in this endeavor, the winners proclaimed and awarded during Foundation Day of Kalibo.

The drive towards effective management of solid wastes require firm and sustained compliance of pertinent laws by individuals, families and groups. It can be baby walk at first but there must be continuous progression toward the ideal. Successful implementers are leaders who govern people not by coercion but by voluntary cooperation.

For this reason, massive educational drive in cooperation with NGO, student organization and mass media (TV, Radio, Newspaper) must be waged in all 16 barangays of Kalibo. A clean and vibrant environment is not an impossible dream but a reality that affects our present life and future generation. Necessarily, it is a collective effort of humanity on a global scale. /MP

Entrepreneurial Farmer

Ambrosio R. Villorente

Fate of New Washington Fishery Code

The "Revised Municipal Fishery Code of the Municipality of New Washington", Ordinance No. 2010 – 01 has been in the agenda of the Aklan Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) since January 19. It is still in the agenda on its session on Wednesday, Feb. 16, number VII A, 6a.

The joint committee on Laws and Environment which met on Monday, February 14 recommended consideration of it "be deferred while awaiting the rejoinder from the fishpond operators".

Negative Reactions

The Code appears to be mutually beneficial to all concerned and of noble intention. However, it is encountering strong objections from the fishpond operators of the municipality of New Washington.

EF is receiving negative reactions from various fishermen in New Washington. Atty. Ronquillo C. Tolentino in text messages informed. "I am receiving some fishermen from New Washington expressing to me the negative effects on their livelihoods if the Code is approved and implemented."

In a position paper, some fishpond operators submitted to Hon. Selwyn C. Ibarreta and Hon. Nemesio P. Neron, they wrote: Article 2 Section 1. Zone 1 – Brackish Water Tributaries and Fishponds refer to the river and bay systems particularly part of Batan Bay Beginning from the imaginary demarcation line dividing the water boundaries between the municipal water of ... Batan and New Washington, including the river system of Lagatik, Pinamuk-an, Mabilo, and Sook Rivers and the Andagao Bay and all streams, brooks, creeks, and fishponds, either developed or underdeveloped, found within the territorial jurisdiction of the municipal waters of the Municipality of New Washington.

The highlighted portion of the said Section failed to define with definite certainty the boundaries of this zone. The uncertainty of the specific metes and bounds would create confusion as to the boundaries of the municipal waters.

The inclusion of "fishpond developed or underdeveloped, found within the territorial jurisdiction of the municipal waters of New Washington" may be considered as a rider to usurp the public lands which is exclusively reserved to the State because it is intended for the development of the national wealth (Article 419(2) new Civil Code of the Philippines). It must be noted that in Republic Act No. 8550 the definition of "Municipal Waters" excludes the protected or reserved areas. This intent was clearly manifested in R.A. No, 8550 and in accordance with Section 2 of the Fisheries Administrative Order No. 197, Series of 2000 dated 23 February 2000.

Another rider in Article 4 Section 1 states, "It shall be likewise unlawful for any person, cooperative, partnership, association or corporation to operate and/or lease fishpond, fish cage, fish corrals or oyster culture beds or take or catch bangus fry of any species for propagation within the jurisdiction of this municipality without first securing a municipal grant conferred thereof by the Sangguniang Bayan as provided for in this Code".

Here, fishponds situated in the municipality of New Washington, Aklan is beyond the province of the said municipality because it belongs to the State thus it is not within its legitimate municipal fishery privileges as defined in Section 149 of R. A. No. 7160.
From the foregoing legal jurisdiction, it can be safely adduced that fishpond areas under fishpond lease agreements issued by Department of Agriculture through the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources cannot be declared as part of the municipal waters and the Sangguniang Bayan concern has no authority to grant any fishery concession.

Article 5, Section 4. Fish Ports. "The Sangguniang Bayan shall identify, designate and/or create a municipal fish port where all fishing vessels shall unload their catch or cargo of fish and other aquatic resources for trading purposes. xxx." Here, the word "shall" signified that the New Washington LGU has not coordinated with the fishpond operators/FLA lessees as constituent of the private sector in accordance with Section 59 or R.A. No. 8550. Clearly, the establishment of the post-harvest facility should not be left to the sole discretion of the LGU.

Article 6, Section 2 states "All fishery products produced from fishponds or those fish catch taken within the municipal waters of the municipality including those taken from open seas by fishing vessels registered or having business license to operate in this municipality are strictly required to be unloaded at the designated Municipal Fish Port or Bagsakan Center for auction or trading." The ordinance uses the phrase "are strictly required". This simply means, it is a command to all stakeholders to trade all fishery products at the Bagsakan Center. No "if’s and but’s". This is no longer regulatory power but an act contrary to the declared national economic policy and it constitutes as monopoly and in restrain of trade. This is in violation of our constitution which provides: "The State shall regulate or prohibit private monopolies when the public interest so requires. No combination in restrain of trade or unfair competition shall be allowed."

Further, Section 4 of Article 6 also provides: "There shall be collected entrance fee for fishery products unloaded at the fish port or Bagsakan Center, as follows: 1.) Bangus – Php0.50 per kilo, etc." This provision is simply excessive, confiscatory, and exorbitant imposition of regulatory fees for revenue purposes.

It must be noted that Article 6 is entitled as a Regulatory Provision on Fish Port or Bagsakan Center Auction or Trading of Fish and other Fishery Products, Fees and Charges. Be that as it may, the imposition of entrance fee for fishery products is in defiance of the jurisprudence of the Supreme Court in the case of American Mail Line et. al., vs. City of Basilan, et. al., G.R. No. L-12647. May 31, 1961, which states that "The Power to regulate as an exercise of police power does not include the power to impose fees for revenue purposes (Cu Unjieng s. Patstone, 42 Phil., 818; Pacific Commercial Co. vs. Romualdez etc., et. al., 49 Phil., 917; Hercules Lumber Co. vs. Municipality of Zamboanga, 55 Phil., 653), and for fees to be purely regulatory in nature, the same "must be no more than sufficient to cover the actual cost of inspection or examination as nearly as the same can be estimated." (Manila Electric Co. vs. Auditor General, 73 Phil., 129).

Also, the foregoing arguments will hold true with regards to Article 11, Section 3 which reads "Report of Schedule of Harvest and the Actual Value Harvested per Gross Tonnage. It shall be the duty of every fishpond owner to make regular report to the Fisheries Management and Regulatory Unit and the Office of the Municipal Treasurer of the schedule of harvest and actual value of aquatic products (milkfish or bangus, prawn or sugpo, shrimp or pasayan, tilapia catfish or hito and crabs or alimango) harvested from his fishpond for inspection and regulatory purposes. Provided, that there shall be collected from fishpond owners a regulatory and inspection fees for the harvested aquatic products as follows: Regulatory fee: a) Mayor’s Clearance Fee Php500.00 per harvest. Inspection Fee: a) Milkfish or Bangus Php10.00 per 50 Kg. or fraction thereof, etc.

For an ordinance to be valid, it must not only be within the corporate powers of the municipality to enact but must also be passed according to the procedure prescribed by law, and must be in consonance with certain well established and basic principles of a substantive nature. These principles require that a municipal ordinance must not: (1) contravene the Constitution or any statute, (2) be unfair or oppressive, (3) partial or discriminatory, (4) prohibit but may regulate trade, (5) must be general and consistent with public policy, and (6) be unreasonable.

Here, the questioned ordinance has failed to comply with the foregoing doctrine and non-observance of the following basic principles under R.A. 7160, Sec. 130. Fundamental Principles. The following fundamental principles shall govern the exercise of the taxing and other revenue-raising powers of all local government units:
(a) Taxation shall be uniform;
(b) Taxes, fees, charges and other impositions shall:
(1) be equitable and based as far as practicable on the taxpayer’s ability to pay;
(2) be levied and collected only for public purposes;
(3) not be unjust, excessive, oppressive, or confiscatory;
(4) not be contrary to law, public policy, national economic policy, or in the restraint of trade;
(c) The collection of local taxes, fees, charges and other impositions shall in no case be let to any private person;

(d) The revenue collected pursuant to the provisions of this Code shall inure solely to the benefit of, and be subject to the disposition by, the local government unit levying the tax, fee, charge or other imposition unless otherwise specifically provided herein; and

(e) Each local govern-ment unit shall, as far as practicable, evolve a progressive system of taxation.

The position paper was signed by 15 major fishpond owners/operators who respectfully prayed that the New Washington Ordinance No. 2010-01 Enacting "The Revised Municipal Fishery Code of the Municipality of New Washington, Province of Aklan" be DENIED FOR APPROVAL.

What is the fate of that fishery code? /MP　

Solving Kalibo’s Garbage

Picture shows (l to r) Dr. Emmet L. Custodio-Consultant on Health & Environment, Ms. Adorada T. Reynaldo-PSO II, Ms. Juliet Melgarejo-Chief, Municipal Economic Enterprise & Development Office, and Atty. Ronquillo C. Tolentino-legal consultant, Aklan Press Club. They are discussing several alternative means to solve the worsening garbage problem in the Ati-atihan town of Kalibo. (ARV Photo)

Aquino Stops Timber Cutting, Harvesting; Creates Anti-logging Task Force

President Benigno S. Aquino III on Tuesday, February 15 signed Executive Order (EO) No. 23 declaring a moratorium on the cutting and harvesting of timber in the natural and residual forests, and creating the anti-illegal logging task force.

EO 23 revokes, amends and/or modifies all executive orders, rules and regulations and other issuances which are inconsistent with the said EO.

In signing the EO, the Chief Executive directed to prohibit itself the Department of Environ-ment and Natural Resources (DENR) from issuing logging contracts/agreements in all natural and residual forests such as Integrated Forest Manage-ment Agreement (IFMA), Socialized Integrated Forest Management Agreement (SIFMA), Community-Based Forest Management Agreement (CBFMA) and other agreements/contracts with logging component in all natural and residual forests in the country.

Likewise, the DENR is prohibited from issuing or renewing tree cutting permits in all natural and residual forests nationwide except for clearing of the road right of way by the Department of Public Works and Highways, site preparation for tree plantations, silvicultural treatment and similar activities, provided that all logs derived from the said cutting permits shall be turned over to the DENR for proper disposal.

The EO further stated that the tree cutting associated with cultural practices pursuant to the Indigenous Peoples Right Act may be allowed subject to existing guidelines of the DENR.

Existing IFMas, SIFMAs, CBFMAs and other agreements and contracts shall be reviewed and evaluated by the DENR and immediately terminate contracts and agreements of those who violated twice the terms and conditions of their contracts/agreements and existing forest laws, rules and regulations, and if the holders of these contracts/agreements engage in logging activities in any natural or residual forest.

According to the same EO the DENR shall strictly implement a forest certification system in accordance with the United Nations standards and guidelines so as to ascertain the sustainability of legal sources and chain of custody of timber and wood products nationwide.

The DENR shall close and disallow sawmills, veneer plants and other wood processing plants to operate if they fail to present proof of sustainable sources of legally cut logs for a period of at least five years within one month once the EO on illegal logging takes effect.

The EO further orders the DENR, through the Department of Agriculture-DENR-Department of Agrarian Reform Convergence Initiative, to develop a National Greening Program (NGP) while the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Commission on Higher Education shall initiate the educational drive campaign.

The Department of Interior and Local Government(DILG) shall help in the establishment of communal tree farms for firewood and other purposes and the Department of Social Welfare and Development shall identify the upland farmers covered by the NGP as priority beneficiaries of the conditional cash transfer program.
On the other hand, the Department of Budget and Management shall provide the necessary funds for the production of quality seedlings for the NGP from available funds of the government and the private sector.

Other sectors and agencies are also ordered to raise funds for tree planting activities.
The DepEd shall be the priority recipient of all confiscated logs.

The DENR Secretary shall chair the Anti-Illegal Logging Task Force and the members shall include the secretaries of the Interior and Local Government and National Defense, the Chief of the Philippine National Police and the Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines or their authorized representatives.

The Task Force is tasked to enforce and lead the anti-illegal logging campaign, ensure the implementation of the EO under the supervision of the DENR, and assist the DENR in the implementation of other environmental laws.

The DBM shall provide the DENR P10 million as initial budget for the Task Force. The additional fund releases has to be approved by the President. /MP

More Lovesick Pinoys Turn To Radio

Do you need some no non-sense love advice? You might as well get it from Papa Jack.

Undoubtedly humorous but often straight to the point, Love Radio disk jockey John Gemperle a.k.a. "Papa Jack" made waves and changed the trend of local radio programming with the unusual format of his on-air love counseling program.

For almost four years now, Papa Jack has been hosting "True Love Conversations," a venue for lovesick Pinoys to vent out their relationship frustrations, confess their infidelity, or just cry on air.

Papa Jack deviates from the stereotypical radio love adviser. No, he doesn’t have that usual "bedroom voice" and he won’t even try to sympathize with you. If he thinks the caller is plain stupid, he will say so.

So, if somebody needs to hear what his or her friends can’t bring them-selves to say, then Papa Jack, a former professor at Polytechnic University of the Philippines, just might be the right person to call.

"I’m brutally honest. I give advice even if I sometimes offend people," Papa Jack tells Yahoo! Southeast Asia in an interview.

Because of this, people from almost all social classes tune in and give him a ring, despite his late-night time slot. He can accommodate at least five callers per night and each would share their story, sometimes in between sobs.

If you dread Valentine’s Day, Papa Jack says you are definitely not alone. In fact, you may be part of the majority—most of his callers ask for tips on how to recover from a heart break.

Unfortunately, despite the loads of advice he gives away, Papa Jack has proven that there really is no sure-fire formula when it comes to matters of the heart. He, however, believes that crying helps a lot and it’s a pre requisite for acceptance.

"For people who cry to move on, I’m happy for them," said Papa Jack, who’s happily in-love with his girlfriend Mimi. They’ve been together for almost four years now.

"Naiiyak lang ako, nadadala sa caller kapag walang solusyon ang problema nila [I only cry when their problem appears to have no solution]," adds Papa Jack, recalling of a caller who was crying so hard because she was widowed too early.

Papa Jack said he has probably heard it all—from fairy tales gone sour to love stories turning for the worse.

But isn’t it hard to hear all these sad stories?

"It’s a good thing I have a short-term memory. I don’t have to remember all these sad stories," he says. (By Thea Alberto, Yahoo! Southeast Asia) /MP

Aquino Installs EDSA People Power Commission Officials

President Benigno S. Aquino III swore in the officials of the Edsa People Power Commission (EPPC) tasked to promote the ideals of the bloodless and the first people power revolution in the country.

In simple mass oath taking rites at the Premier Guest House of the Palace on Thursday, February 10, the President installed the new officials led by its chairman, Executive Secretary Paquito "Jojo" Ochoa, Jr. in taking their oath of office.

Other members of the EPPC are actor-singer-composer Ogie Alcasid, advertiser Emily Abrera, Christopher Carrion, Milagros Kilayko, former Trade Secretary Jose Pardo, and former Government Service Insurance System chairman Cesar Sarino.

Executive Order No. 82. (S. 1999) created the EDSA People Power Commission to institutionalize the legacy of the EDSA People Power Revolution, rooted in the same spirit that brought Filipinos to freedom a century ago.

As a dedicated organization, the EPPC is established specifically to institute appropriate means, activities and concerted action that will serve to enshrine EDSA People Power as a continuing and permanent source of inspiration for future generations.

EDSA People Power is a historic uprising in February 1986 that toppled the decades-old Marcos regime and catapulted Corazon "Cory" Aquino, the President’s mother, to the presidency that time.

On December 22, 2010, President Aquino issued Executive Order No. 17, which streamlines the role of the commission and whittled down the number of its members from 25 to just seven.

Earlier, American book author Stephen Mansfield paid a courtesy call to the President to express support to his administration and the programs being im-plemented for the people.

The New York Times bestselling author and popular speaker Mansfield, who is also an evangelical leader, was accompanied by wife Beverly and some evangelical leaders of the Victory Church of the Philippines.

The religious leaders include Bishop Emmanuel Carlos, Bishop J. Raymund Mora, Bishop Jonel Milan, Pastor Ferdinand Cabiling, Pastor William Steven Murrell, Anastacio Escobar, Jr., and former Guam Governor Felix Camacho.

During the call at the Yellow Room, the Premier Guest House, Pastor Mansfield presented two of his best-selling books to the Chief Executive as gifts, namely, the "Pope Benedict XVI, His Life and Mission" and "The Faith of George W. Bush. /MP

PACQUIAO-MOSLEY FIGHT PROMOTIONAL TOUR

My Power Is Natural: Pacquiao

by ALEX P. VIDAL

LAS VEGAS, Nevada – Insisting he never used illegal substance in his entire fistic career, eight-division world champion Manny Pacquiao on February 12 told boxing fans at the MGM Grand here "my power is natural" during the Las Vegas leg of the kick-off press conference of his　 May 7 fight against Shane Mosley.

"You have to believe me that my power is natural," the 32-year-old Pacquiao declared in answer to the question of a male boxing fan during a press conference at the Grand Arena which was opened to the public.

"I never used any medicine because my power is natural," he reiterated. "I am strong."
Pacquiao (52-3-2, 38 KO) and Mosley (46-6, 39 KO) hit this city, known as gambling capital of the world, for promotional tour of their mega fight to be held in the same arena which will end in New York February 14.

Pacquiao, meanwhile, assured boxing fans there will be no distractions in his preparations against Mosley despite his schedules in Philippine Congress.

He also nixed reports he is planning to run for Philippine president. "My job is to continue boxing and attend to my responsibilities in Congress and I have no plan to run for president," he said.

Pacquiao also dismissed reports that he would hang up his gloves soon.

"I will not yet retire after my fight with Mosley," he promised.

Even before his fight against Mosley, promoters were already starting to negotiate for his possible showdown versus Floyd Mayweather, Jr.

Mosley, for his part, said his fight against the Filipino best boxer pound-for-pound "will make me shine and I will shine again."

The former protégé of the Golden Boy Promotion owned by his one-time victim, Oscar De La Hoya, refused to make predications but claimed he is unfazed by being tagged as underdog.

The two-hour press conference was arranged by Top Rank chief Bob Arum who announced that the May 7 event will be distributed at SHOWTIME Pay-Per-View.

"As everyone knows we’ve been in the land of Cowboys for our last two fights, but I live in Las Vegas and I thought it was time to come back to the place which is the capital of boxing. I think boxing needs Las Vegas and Las Vegas needs boxing. This is like boxing’s version of the Super Bowl," Arum said.

Some 3,000 fans watched the press conference and about 20 of them were allowed to ask questions. /MP

Sugilanon Ni Tita Linda

Ni Tita Linda Belayro

Amaeanhig

Ro amaeanhig hay isaeang ka tawo nga maskin magueang eon hay mabuhay mamatay. Guina hibaygan nana ro pilang beses nga paghana ni kamatayon. Suno sa mga katigueangan ro amaeanhig hay abo pa kuno ro anang guina pas-an nga kasae-anan. Owa pa imaw naka hinoe-soe, busa indi pa pagbatunon ni San Pedro sa eangit.

Maskin sa edad nga 100 dag-on, sarang pa maka saka it kahoy. Ogaling mga tiko nga kahoy eang. Ro tawong guina eagas it amaeanhig, kinahangean nga deretso ro anang pagdaeagan agod indi imaw maabutan. Kon mapatay nana imaw, hay naga bangon dayon ro amaeanhig ag naga inom it tubi.

Si Bastian sangka amaeanhig hay mabakod pa guihapon. Sa edad nga 100 dag-on, nakasaka pa imaw sa kahoy nga buktot ag abong mga sanga. Pagkamatay ni Bastian tongod sa tama it baril, nagbangon imaw pagkaaga nga matsa naghalin sa pagkatoeog. Nag adto imaw sa suba agod magpaligos. Tongod sa anang kagueang, bu-ot ko anang mga onga nga mag pahuway eon imaw, ogaling mabakod pat-a man imaw.

Guin pangutana imaw kon basi may guin eobong kana, nagsugid imaw nga katong nagtaliwan nga giyera habaril imaw ag guin butangan it saway ro anang nina. Pag ueat ko nina, haaywan idto ro saway. Guin paoperahan ratong nina nga guin tubuan eon it unod. Guin bo-oe ratong saway ag golpeng nag-eoya ra imaw hasta namatay.

Guin butang imaw sa kabaong nga naga koeob ag guin hapinan it dahon it bago ro anang guina eogban. Owa eon naka bangon si Bastian amaeanhig. Natapos ro gahum ko anang pagka amaeanhig. Umpisa kato, owa eon it habatian hanungod kay Bastian. Nangin malinong man ro pamilya ni Bastian tongod naka pahuway sanda sa pagtinatap ko amaeanhig nga guina hibaygan permi ro paghana ni kamatayan. /MP

Javier To Collect Disallowed 2009 Bonus

Governor Exequiel B. Javier is studying the possibility of filing a case against former Governor Salvacion Perez in order to collect the amount of P15.55 million in Productivity Pay that the latter had paid the employees in 2009, but which was disallowed by the Commission on Audit (COA).

Gov. Javier said that his predecessor assumed full responsibility for the payment of the said Productivity Pay to the employees in her letter to former Vice Governor Rhodora Cadiao and the members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP), asking them to pass a resolution granting her authority to pay the Productivity Pay.

"That’s P15.55 million that was illegally paid the employees and, for a fact, the employees did not ask for it. It was former Gov. Perez who thought of giving the employees Productivity Pay and she had that ‘comfort letter’ to the SP taking full responsibility," Javier said.

Each employee then received P10,000 less withholding tax that former Gov. Perez called as Extra Christmas Bonus.

To recall, the COA issued a Notice of Disallowance (ND NO.: 2010-00049-101(09) dated September 27, 2010 on the payment of Productivity Enhancement Incentive (PEI) in 2009 in the amount of P15,552,265.

The COA disallowed the payment made last December 21, 2009 of the PEI to the total of 1,488 regular and casual employees because the Province of Antique has already exceeded its Personnel Services (PS) limitation by P135,628,062.32 (net of disallowed PS items) in its FY 2009 Annual Budget as per review letter dated June 15, 2009 by the DBM Regional Office VI, Iloilo City. (PNA) /MP

Police Arrests Gunrunner In Kalibo

A suspected gun- runner fell into the hands of lawmen after an entrapment operation of the Aklan Police Provincial Office (APPO) and Aklan Provincial Public Safety Company (APPSC) jointly conducted in coordination with the Kalibo Police Station.

APPO acting provincial director S/Supt. Cornelio T. Defensor said the suspect, Edgar Pastrana, 56, of Barangay Tinigao, Kalibo, Aklan was arrested on Monday, February 14 while in the act of selling assorted firearms to a police poseur-buyer at Purok 3, Tinigao, Kalibo.

Defensor said the arrest of Pastrana is part of the Aklan PPO’s campaign against illegal possession of firearms and the government’s fight against criminality.

Confiscated from the suspect are one caliber .45 Colt MK bearing serial no. 486325, one Armscor air gun rifle converted to caliber 22 rifle, one unit unidentified caliber pistol with serial no. 16077013, one standard magazine of caliber 45 without ammunition, two magazines with seven live ammunition and one piece 22 rimpire ammunition.

Moreover, the suspect voluntarily surrendered 33 live ammunitions of caliber .45 and .22, one cal. 45 holster and 1 unit N6070 cellular phone.

APPO deputy provincial director Supt. Samuel Nacion said, prior to the entrapment operation, the suspect was under constant surveillance for almost a month. It was confirmed the suspect was allegedly active in the gunrunning activities in Kalibo, Aklan.

Defensor said the operation is part of Aklan PPO’s intensified implementation of police integrated patrol system and the conduct of more frequent patrols in crime-prone areas based on reports of rampant robberies happening in Aklan’s capital town of Kalibo.

The Kalibo PNP is readying criminal charges of gunrunning and violation of PD 1866 as amended by Republic Act 8294 to be filed against the suspect who is presently under debriefing on the source of the firearms and his list of prospective buyers. (PNA)

Singapore Food Expert Holds Cooking Demo

A Singaporean culinary expert, Chef Akber Ali of Convotherm Singapore held an instructional cooking demonstration on February 16, 2011 from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the 3rd flr. of Casa Dayang Boracay in this premier tourism destination island . The cooking demonstration is sponsored by Technolux Boracay, distributor of Convotherm Singapore’s foodservice equipment, laundry equipment, cleaning equipment and smallwares.

Roger Bimbinon, Technolux Boracay branch supervisor, said Chef Akbar Ali is Convotherm Singapore’s Director for Sales and Marketing for the Asia Pacific region.
Convotherm’s special line of foodservice equipments: laundry equip-ment, cleaning equipment, and smallwares and are on display at Technolux Boracay located at Casa Dayang Boracay, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan.　

The February 16 cooking demonstration is aptly billed as "Best Cooking Results with Convotherm." Invited to attend the event are gourmets and chefs from the various hotels and resort establishments in Boracay and from other parts of the country. /MP　

Miriam: True Love Is Like Measles

For Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago, true love is like measles.

"You only get it once in your lifetime and you are immune forever," Santiago told reporters on Monday, Valentine’s Day. (But many does not believe "a person only loves once in his lifetime".)

Known for her sharp remarks, Santiago said many people believes in "serial love" or loving one person after another without knowing that it is detrimental to one’s mental health.

"I think we should get it over with," she said.

She even cited what happened to her when she met her husband, presidential adviser on revenue enhancement Narciso Santiago, Jr.

"I am completely immune to any temptation. All men who have passed my life after I got married might as well have been sticks of furniture," she said.

The senator has two adopted daughters and two biological sons with her husband, the youngest of whom died in 2003. — Kimberly Jane Tan/RSJ/KBK, GMANews.TV

EDITORIAL

Angelo Reyes’ Death Shocks Country

The apparent suicide of a former Defense chief, who was at the center of a congressional probe into one of the biggest corruption scandals in the Philippine military, shocked the country Tuesday morning, February 8.

Sympathies and condolences to the bereaved family of Retired General Angelo Reyes are pouring in.

Reyes, 65, shot himself in front of his mother’s grave at Loyola Memorial Park, Marikina City. He was rushed to the Quirino Memorial Medical Center in Quezon City but declared dead at 8:32 a.m. due to a single gunshot wound in the chest.

Witness Feliciano Recorba, cemetery worker, saw Reyes standing near his mother’s grave as his two sons and bodyguards waited in their parked car. He then saw Reyes holding a pistol close to his chest with his left hand moments before the shot rang out.

His death is considered a dramatic twist in a scandal over accusations that top Philippine generals skimmed money from the Army to fund a lavish lifestyle. Reyes left millions of Filipinos — from Luzon to Visayas and Mindanao — in a quandary with his death.

"His flight could mean guilt. I pity the people who wanted to know the truth," said Colonel Dickson Hermoso, former commander of the 7th Infantry Battalion assigned in 2009 in Pikit, North Cotabato.

Shocked over Reyes’s death, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) flew at half mast Tuesday flags in camps nationwide as they urge Congress to expedite its probe into the military corruption.

The flag will also be flown at half-staff in all 174 offices of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, in honor of Reyes.

President Benigno Aquino III admitted that the untimely death of Reyes dampened the celebration of his 51st birthday Tuesday.

"I was shocked this morning when I first got the news. We don’t want this to happen to anyone. I expressed condolences to his bereaved family," Aquino told reporters when he graced a medical and dental mission in Mendiola as part of the activities lined up for his birthday.

Vice Pres. Jejomar Binay was also shocked by the news. "I offer my heartfelt sympathies to his family. Let us all pray that they find peace and overcome this tragic event," he said.

Binaywas at odds with Reyes after he led the AFP in withdrawing its support at the height of the corruption scandal in 2001.

The civilian military-backed demonstration catapulted then-Vice President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to power. Reyes held different Cabinet positions in the Arroyo administration, from defense to energy departments.

Former President Joseph Estrada remembers Reyes as a "good general."

"I extend my deepest condolences to the family [of General Angelo Reyes]. In spite of what happened at Edsa Dos, I will always remember him as a good general," he said.
Arroyo, who went to the Quirino Memorial Medical Center when she learned of the incident, called on the Filipino people to remember Reyes for his "courage and patriotic service."

Malacañang will give full military honors to Angelo Reyes as he served almost half of his life in the AFP.

According to Presidential spokesperson Edwin Lacierda, Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin assured military honors will be accorded to Reyes since he was not proven guilty of the alleged corruption in the military.

"He is an innocent man for now... there is a presumption of innocence so there should be no accusation of guilt for now," Lacierda said.

Reyes’s name was dragged into former military comptroller Carlos Garcia’s controversial plea bargain agreement with the government after former military budget officer George Rabusa told the Senate hearing "former Defense Chief Reyes received P50 million as "pabaon" money when he retired as chief of staff.

Rabusa, in a radio interview Tuesday, said with voice cracking: "I’m really sad and I don’t know why he did that… I know his children, they treated me like a second father. ... We ate together. He served me meals."

Lawmakers, who are still busy attending the hearings on the plea bargain deal and issues hounding the AFP also expressed their condolences to the Reyes family.

"Through this tragedy, we should respect the time of mourning of the general’s family as this event is a shock to all of us. We offer our gratitude as well for the years of valuable service the general has extended to the government and this nation which will not go unnoticed," said House Speaker Feliciano Belmonte.

"We offer our condolences and sympathies to the family of former Secretary Angelo Reyes. It’s hard to imagine what they’re going through right now," added Davao City Rep. Karlo Nograles. Akbayan Rep. Walden Bello, asked the people to respect the grief of the family.

"It’s a sad news indeed," Pangasinan Representative Leopoldo Bataoil, a former police general, said in a message to Sun.Star.

For other legislators, the investigation into the military corruption involving high-ranking officials should continue despite the death of Reyes.

Deputy Speaker Erin Tañada said Reyes could no longer shed light on the matter, his death should not stop the Congress in its pursuit to uncover the corruption in the AFP.

"The death of former Armed Forces Chief Angelo Reyes is very unfortunate... Instead of helping us search for the truth, he decided to keep the truth a secret," said Tañada.

Western Samar Representative Mel Sarmiento said the suicide committed by Reyes also reminds him of the stark reality that amid all the investigations both in the House and the Senate, he has yet to see for himself a clear roadmap for the country’s future.
Iloilo Representative Jerry Treñas, expressed his deepest sympathies with the family and loved ones of Reyes, but pointed out that the incident should not cause any delay in the ongoing investigations.

"This tragedy should strengthen our resolve to correct what appears to be a systemic defect in the AFP and in the entire government bureaucracy," Treñas said.

"This is really shocking. Secretary Reyes was very helpful in discussing what he knows about the budgetary system in the AFP and his inputs are certainly useful in correcting its defects," Ang Kasangga Party-list Representative Teodorico Haresco said.

AFP’s Vice Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Reynaldo Mapagu hopes the investigation on alleged military corruption will push through.

"We are saddened that he ended his life. But the investigation must continue to include his wife and the children. We want to know the bottom of this," said Allan D. Yaphockun, governor of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry for Southern Mindanao.

Eastern Mindanao Command chief Major General Arthur Tabaquero said, Reyes’s death was unfortunate. He hopes the truth will come out.

"It is very tragic and sad," said Zamboanga City Mayor Celso Lobregat who said Reyes was adopted son of Zamboanga City, a good man.

Lieutenant General Ralph Villanueva, commanding general of the Central Command based in Cebu, said soldiers were "saddened and shocked" after hearing the news of Reyes’s death. "He was known to be a good officer," Villanueva told reporters.

Villanueva hopes the inquiry will be completed and those responsible will be charged.
Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama was also saddened by the death of Reyes. He believes the pressure of being publicly condemned prompted the retired general to end his life.

While he does not oppose congressional inquiries, he said it is important for participating legislators to be circumspect.

"What’s important is that we do not close our eyes that we need to correct the system to reduce and even eliminate corruption," Rama said.

Moro Islamic Liberation Front spokesman Eid Kabalu also extended condolences to Reyes’s family. "We have no ill-feelings against him despite his major role in the 2000 all-out war declared by the Estrada administration. We would like to condole with his family," he said.

Kabalu believes that Reyes killed himself apparently "out of guilt."

"If he was assassinated, which authorities have ruled out, that would be a different story that implies that others want him silenced forever for fear he might implicate them," the rebel spokesman added.

The question on whether Reyes would be given a Catholic burial is for his priest to decide, said Canon law expert Archbishop emeritus Oscar Cruz. The most recent ruling of the Vatican, admitted Cruz, already allows suicide deaths to be accorded with a Catholic burial but this is not yet clear to every clergy member.

"It would depend on the parish priest [of the area where he will be buried], just in case he is brought to the church," said Cruz.

In a Catholic burial rite, the remains of the dead will be given a Requiem Mass, a blessing of the cadaver, the blessing of the tomb, and burial in a Catholic cemetery. (Jonathan de Santos/Kathrina Alvarez/Jill Beltran/Virgil Lopez/AH/AMN/Carmelle Marie Harrow/Ben Tesiorna/Bong Sarmiento/Malu Manar/GAAgtay/Sun.Star Davao/Bong Garcia/ KAL/BAP/RSA/ETB/Sun.Star Cebu/Sunnex) /MP

Entrepreneurial Farmer

Ambrosio R. Villorente

US Orders Pinay Manhunt
Over $17M Healthcare Fraud

by Florence F. Hibionada/ PNS

A 41 year-old Filipina nurse is named one of the first-ever top 10 "Most Wanted Health Care Fugitives" by the United States (US) Government.　

Dubbed by American authorities as a "ringleader" in one of biggest health care frauds in California , USA , wanted is fugitive Susan Bendigo Lim of Davao City.　

A mother of two teens, she is accused of five felony counts in the US District Court, Central District of California for "health care fraud, aiding and abetting and causing an act to be done." To her ‘credit’ is at least US$17 million in alleged scammed taxpayers’ money. Data obtained by Philippine News Service (PNS) disclosed the confirmation from the US Office of the Inspector General (OIG) that some $10 million were collected by the Filipina fugitive herself "from the claims she submitted for services she provided with unlicensed staff."

Bendigo - Lim finished her Nursing course in Cebu City and made it big in the US between 2005 to 2007.　

Docketed as criminal case 2:09 cr-00148-UA, USA vs. Bendigo aka Susan Lim, the indictment was made in February 2009.　 It was Friday last week when the OIG decided to put a face on healthcare fraudsters that unfortunately for the Philippines, included one of its own nurses.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the OIG, TDG learned, are working on Bendigo’s arrest to follow-up the crackdown on healthcare fraudsters in American soil.　

Another "ringleader" is Priscilla Villabroza, also a Filipina nurse and a known associate in Los Angeles, California by the wanted nurse.　 Villabroza has pleaded guilty to five counts of health care fraud. She faces up to 50 years in prison if found guilty as accused.

A similar fate awaits Bendigo – Lim known to be hiding here in the Philippines.　 PNS in an independent investigation learned that the 41 year-old balikbayan nurse was in Cebu City only last month. Since fleeing America in October 2008, she is believed to have set up several residences including an apartment in Cebu .　

To note, health care fraud in the US is blamed for an estimated $60 billion a year loss for US taxpayers over Medicare and Medicaid scams. Medicare and Medicaid programs are similar to the Philippine’s PhilHealth Insurance Program.

To date, a shortlist of 170 fugitive healthcare fraudsters in the US have been identified with the order out for a global manhunt. In the top 10 list, Bendigo- Lim ranked 8th, for having scammed millions out of the US Department of Health and Human Services budget.

The wanted Filipina nurse is described as "Susan Bendigo, also known as Susan Lim. She’s a federal fugitive in a 42-defendant cases involving shady nurses operating out of Santa Fe Springs." She is five feet four inches tall and was sporting a short hair upon recent sighting in Cebu City.

With the latest inclusion of Bendigo – Lim in the "Most Wanted Health Care Fugitives" list, "horror stories" resurfaced anew.

An Associated Press (AP) story wrote of how Lim’s operations allowed untrained, unlicensed and unqualified Filipino nurses to treat disabled children and those suffering from Cerebral Palsy.

CNN for its part did an extensive piece on the indictment with information on how Bendigo – Lim gave instructions for Filipino workers to lie about real status.

"According to court documents, the ring passed off unqualified workers as nurses who provided in-home medical care to about 75 disabled patients, many of them children with cerebral palsy or developmental disabilities.

"Why was their conduct wrong?" U.S. Attorney Thomas P. O’Brien asked during a downtown news conference. "Stated simply, the ring hired unlicensed individuals and passed them off as licensed vocational nurses to both Medi-Cal and parents of disabled children," news wires on the Bendigo – Lim case went.

"Those associated with this fraud ring not only cheated taxpayers, they endangered the lives of those they had promised to protect and care for," O’Brien added. /MP

PRC Gets New Blood Bank Refrigerator

by ULYSSES ESPARTERO

After more than five decades, the Philippine Red Cross (PRC), formerly Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC) Aklan Chapter now has a modern Blood Bank Refrigerator capable of responding to the needs of patients under emergency cases such as dengue hemorrhagic fever.

Atty. Ronquillo C. Tolentino, PRC Aklan chairman, said the provincial government has acquired a Blood Bank Refrigerator from project C.U.R.E. through the Rotary Club of Kalibo.

The facility is turned over to the management and operation of PRC Aklan in a simple ceremonies on February 9, 2011 graced by no less than PRC Secretary General, Gwendolyn T. Pang.

On the same occasion, the signing of Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on Blood Bank Services was done. Dr. Rafael S. Tumbokon Memorial Hospital (DRSTMH) was represented by Gov. Carlito S. Marquez, while Ms. Gwendolyn T. Pang signed in behalf of PRC.

The MOA signing was witnessed by local officials of Aklan, PRC Board of Directors led by Tolentino, PRC Chapter Administrator Arcely P. Pelayo, Dr. Paul L. Macahilas, Dr. Emma Cortes, civic leaders, representatives from Aklan Medical Society, and medical staff of DRSTMH.

As stipulated for in the agreement, PRC Aklan will be the main source of blood for transfusion to DRSTMH patients.

DREAM COME TRUE

Tolentino, former Vice Governor of Aklan, said the Blood Bank Refrigerator is a dream come true for all Aklanons and even tourists and migrants in Aklan during the turn-over ceremonies held at PRC Headquarters, Kalibo on Wednesday morning. Tolentino in his welcome message expressed his appreciation and gratitude to Gov. Carlito S. Marquez for all the assistance given to the PRC Aklan Chapter.

"We are truly grateful for this gift to the people of Aklan. The people of Aklan will surely be grateful to the provincial government for re-cognizing the need for safe blood," he said.

Ms. Arcelie P. Pelayo, PRC Provincial Administrator stressed, "with the blood bank refrigerator, Aklanons need not go now to Roxas City and Iloilo City to have the packed blood screened as the traditional practice before transfusion to recipient patients. PRC Aklan was a mere collecting unit of blood from volunteer blood donors although it is capable of testing Malaria, Syphilis, Hepatitis B and C and HIV 1 and 2 following the standards of the Bureau of Health Facilities and Services of the Department of Health."

Gov. Marquez in his speech expressed his appreciation and gratitude to Project C.U.R.E. of Colorado, USA; and the Rotary Club of Kalibo which enhanced the acquisition of blood bank refrigerator.

Ms. Gwendolyn T. Pang, PRC secretary general thanked Gov. Marquez and PRC BOD Aklan chapter for their efforts to improve Red Cross services. She stressed the mission and vision of PRC and what it does to fulfill these.

Dr. Albert S. Marin, Medical Specialist II., in behalf of the DRSTMH gave his response. /MP

ASU Alumni Priorities: Job Placement and Business

by ERNESTO T. SOLIDUM

"ASU (Main) Alumni Plan and Programs" is the topic of the weekly Kapihan forum at Smokehauz Resto & Bar on February 5, 2011. The guests are Atty. Ariel Gepty, Pres. Aklan State University (ASU) Alumni Association and Dr. Ambrosio R. Villorente, Chairperson, ASU Selection of Outstanding Alumni Committee.

Dr. Villorente mentioned the milestones in the almost century old educational institution established by the American colonial government during the first decade of the 19th century. The premiere agricultural school in the former province of Capiz changed its name several times from Capiz Intermediate School, Capiz Farm School in 1918, Banga Rural High School in 1940, Aklan Agricultural College, Aklan State College of Agriculture, and to the present Aklan State University since 2001.

While the educational thrust of the previous 83 years were firmly focused on agricultural courses and related fields, it was only in the last 10 years that saw remarkable structural transformation. Through the efforts of then Cong. Allen S. Quimpo, ASCA became ASU offering added tertiary and post graduate courses. It has assumed control and supervision over four campuses in New Washington, Kalibo, Makato, and Ibajay. Altogether, it has the biggest student population and number of faculty members in the whole province of Aklan.

Atty. Gepty identified two immediate concerns namely: scholarship for indigent but deserving students and medical mission. He proposed that financially capable alumni be asked to contribute to a scholarship fund. A medical mission to render community services is feasible with the presence of nursing students and help of faculty members.

"The ASU Administration is giving full support and encouragement to our plan and programs," said the active practicing lawyer. Under the Charter, ASU Alumni Assn. is entitled to one seat in the Board of Regents. Association officers have a term of three years.

"For the present, we are pre-occupied with the big event slated on April 25, 2011. This is the Grand Alumni Homecoming. Our highlights are: Approval of proposed Constitution and By-Laws, Selection of Outstanding Alumni (1918-2010), Selection of Outstanding Teachers and Popularity Contest. Also included is the President’s Annual Report and Proposed Plan and Programs," revealed Atty. Gepty.

According to Dr. Villorente, "the quali-fication for the outstanding alumni will be based on the following criteria: Bonafide graduate of Capiz Farm School up to ASU, remarkable achievements and good moral character. Category will be on legal, farming, engineering, agricultural journalism, public service, military and police. Joining the Chairperson in the Committee are four outsiders known for their integrity and professionalism."

While Atty. Gepty’s initiative to sponsor scholarship fund for indigent students is very laudable, this pales in comparison with the uncertainty and insecurity of college graduates seeking employment. Data reveals that 67 percent are unemployed. Some nursing graduates end up as Call Center agents or Caregivers.

The impact of unemployed professionals and their growing number all through the years is a huge burden to the Philippine economy. It is noted that the Jasmine revolution of Tunisia was sparked by Mohamed Bouazizis’ suicide. He was an unemployed professional turned ambulant fruit vendor who was slapped by a Police Officer for having no business permit. This prompted Ben Ali, Pres. of Tunisia to flee the country after 10 days of street protests.

Our agricultural imports especially dairy products are growing at 12 percent per year according to Sen. Chiz Escudero. Nevertheless, our agri-cultural graduates are fast diminishing and pretty soon extinct. Apparently one of the oldest educational institutions in the province has diversified to other lucrative courses like Information Technology, Nursing, Hotel and Restaurant Management and Business Administration.

However, sad to say, according to Ms. Vivian R. Solano, Head Provincial Employment Office, is only 20 percent of applicants for local and overseas employment actually pass the job interview. This means ample preparation on personality, info on kind of job, basic skills and all others must be given due emphasis. By the way RP’s unemployment rate in December 2010 was 7.1 percent.
One of successful agricultural extension projects launched by ASCA in the 1980’s is the Sibaliw Development Project. Funded by USAID and other foreign funding agencies, it transformed a depressed barangay into a thriving, self-reliant community with access road, potable water, irrigation, school and productive farms.

Obviously the above model is captured by the "Palayamanan" concept of DA-Philrice but suffers from inadequate funding. However, Mr. William B. Castillo, Provincial Agriculturist disclosed that all Aklan’s 17 municipalities managed to adopt this project. Funding for agriculture and fishery projects have been devolved to LGU’s by virtue of RA 7160. With a 2 percent of provincial budget, our self sufficiency in food has not been largely met.

Networking among successful alumni for job placement must be established as soon as possible. Another option is to encourage entre-preneurship. The latter appears promising since it creates value in products or services needed by the community. While employment is immensely popular, entrepreneurship creates jobs. Among the sun rising industries are cacao, piña, abaca, and food processing.

An empowered ASU Alumni Association is a welcome development to accomplish overall mission and vision of the institution. It could not be denied it has contributed much to the social and economic progress of Aklan. A grand alumni home-coming invites cheers and congratulation to a venerable institution once known for its agricultural and homemaking tech-nologies now adopting multi-disciplinary courses fitted for the 21st century. However, the need to succeed must be crafting the right strategy for job placement and entre-preneurship, something the government is simply unable to do on its own. /MP

“Major, Major” Tourism Investments in Aklan

Gov. Carlito S. Marquez, in his 7th State of the Province Address (SOPA) delivered during the 3rd Regular Session of Aklan SP cited the forthcoming in of billions of pesos for tourism related investments in Aklan, reported Richie D. Oloroso of the Aklan SP.

Marquez cited the P2.5 billion modernization and expansion of the Caticlan Airport on a build-operate-transfer project to be undertaken by the Trans Aire Development Holdings Corporation. The project is designed to widen and extend the airport runway, to construct the 200-square meter two-storey passenger terminal building and install navigation and air traffic control facilities.

The Aklan Governor also mentioned the multi-billion development of a 500-hectare property in Malay and Nabas of the Akean Resorts Corporation to be undertaken by the Alphalang Corporation which will develop the area into a world-class tourism complex.

Among the facilities to be installed are polo and equestrian facilities, water villas, water sports, and residential estates.

Marquez, likewise, revealed the further expansion of the Kalibo International Airport this year which will entail public investments of about P235 million to finance the extension of the runway, renovation of the old terminal building, roadway emprovement and vehicles parking area.

Aklan’s tourism industry is on the upswing with tourist arrivals in Boracay increasing by 20 percent annually from 649,559 in 2009 to 779,666 in 2010. Of this number, 278,531 were foreign tourists which increased by 44.41 percent from 192,873 in 2009.

The 2010 tourist arrivals netted for Aklan an estimated P14.3 billion in terms of tourism receipts. /MP

Sugilanon Ni Tita Linda

Ni Tita Linda Belayro

El Rancho Grande

May Rancho Grande nga guina panag iyahan ni Don Leon. Pinaka maeapad nga ranchohan ra sa Mindanao. Kon ano ka eapad ro hacienda hay imaw man ka estrikto ro tag ana. Bawae magsueod sa mansiyon ro mga tawo. Pulos guwardiya ro palibot.
Sulo eamang bisita nga negosyante ro makasueod nga guina giyahan it mga guwardiya pa. Kon sin-o man nga may katuyo-an kay Don Leon, kinahangean makipag areglo imaw sa anang mga tawohan parabil pasudlon.

Isaeang adlaw, nag masakit si Mario ag kinahangean nanda ro kwarta. Naghinyo si Pacing asawa ni Mario sa guwardiya agod makaatubang kay Don Leon. Guin pasueod si Pacing ogaling owa sanda pagpahueama tongod abo eon ro andang utang. Nagpakitlu-oy si Rita, ro onga ni Mario ag Pacing nga haum imaw mag pamutsatsa bilang bayad sa andang kautangan.

Nagpasugot si Don Leon. Guin pa hueam it kwarta sanda. Bilang alila, ana tanan ro trabaho ni Rita.

Mapintas man ro solo nga onga nga babaye nga si Bella. Guin tiis tanan rondaya ni Rita. Ro mabuot eang hay si Benjie, ro ampon nga eaeaki ko Don. Anang guin taw-an it pagkaon nga halin sa refrigerator si Rita. Pagkatapos it high school, guin padaea sa Manila si Benjie agod idto magpadayon it pagtuon. Samtang ro onga nga babying si Bella hay padayon sa maluho nga pagpangabuhi.

Tag nagmasakit si Donya Isabel tongod sa pirmeng naagahan sa sugaean, kinahangean nga daehon sa Amerika agod ipaboeong. Tongod indi man magmunot si Bella, si Rita ro guin padaea agod magtatap kay Donya Isabel. Nagtener sanda it mabuhay sa Amerika.

May kadungan nga pasyente si Donya Isabel una sa hospital. Kon naga katoeog ro Donya, guina tatap ni Rita ro isaeang ka magueang. Naila ro magueang, busa guin aywanan nana it kwarta si Rita. Ka’t nagmayad ro magueang, guin pangayo nana ro address ni Rita iya sa Pilipinas. Nag mayad sa masakit si Donya Isabel. Sa owa mag buhay, nakauli man sanda Pilipinas.

Sa owa magbuhay, may nag bisita. Hakibot si Donya Rita kat may nag usoy kana. Hakilaea nana si Stewart, ratong anang guin buligan sa hospital. Buot imaw nga pakasaean ko magueang.

Nagsugot sanda. Guin bayran anay ro mga utang it daeaga sa Donya parabil magmunot imaw sa America.

Tumaliwan ro limang dag-on, nagbakasyon si Rita sa Pilipinas. Hasayran nana nga guina embargo eon it bangko ro Rancho Grande. Nanugunan imaw tongod dikaron imaw nagbahoe. Busa, sanda ro nag-eokat ko rancho ag nag panag iya. Pagbalik nanda sa America, inatake ag namatay ro magueang nga asawa ni Rita. Imaw ro nag iridar ko tanan nga manggad it magueang. Nagbalik imaw sa Pilipinas.

Husto man nga guindaea sa hospital si Benjie. Indi nana mabaton nga ro manggad ko anang guinikanan hay ubos eon. Guin bisitahan imaw ni Rita sa hospital hasta nagmayad ag naka guwa. Dati mat-ang naila si Benjie kay Rita ag tongod man sa kabuot ni Benjie kay Rita, owa magbuhay, hay guin kasae sanda. Una man guihapon sanda nag estar sa Rancho Grande. /MP

Manny and Jinkee Pacquiao To meet US President Barack Obama At White House

Kinumpirma ni Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao na natanggap na nila ni Jinkee ang imbitasyon sa White House na makipagkita kay US President Barack Obama at First Lady Michelle Obama.

"Oo, may invitation kami mula sa White House at ngayong February na yan," nakangiting sagot ni Manny sa tanong ng PEP (Philippine Entertainment Portal) nuong Sabado, February 5, during the 10th birthday party of Pacman’s eldest, Jemuel, at the Palms Country Club in Alabang.

"Siyempre, excited tayo dahil matagal ko nang pangarap na makaharap at makausap si US President Obama. Isa ito sa hindi ko malilimutan na parte ng buhay ko dahil malaki ang paghanga ko sa kanya," dagdag pa niya.

Si Manny nga ang magiging kauna-unahang Filipino boxer na maka-kapasok sa White House sa Washington DC. Hindi nga basta-basta nang-iimbita ang White House ng mga celebrities at kapag nakatanggap ka ng invitation, ibig sabihin ay isa kang importanteng tao sa mundo.

"Nakakataba ng puso ang pagkilala nila sa atin. Kahit saan naman ako magpunta, dala-dala ko ang bansa natin. Pinag-mamalaki ko ang pagiging Pinoy natin at hanggang sa White House ay dala natin ito," sabi ni Pacman.

Excited rin ang asawa niyang si Jinkee. Hindi siya makapaniwala na makakarating na siya roon at makikilala niya ang presidente ng United States of America.

"Hindi ko alam ang gagawin ko or masasabi ko kapag nandoon na kami. Baka matulala na lang ako kapag nasa harapan namin sila," tawa pa niya. "Bahala na kung ano ang mangyari. Basta huwag lang akong kabahan."

May mga pinag-pipilian na nga raw na isusuot si Jinkee sa pagpunta nila ni Manny sa White House. Gusto raw niya ay simple pero elegante ang dating.

"May napili na ako before. Pero may mga tinitingnan pa ako na iba pang mga damit. Siyempre, ayoko namang mapahiya si Manny sa akin. Kailangan presentable ako bilang misis niya.

"For sure, maganda ang suot ni First Lady Michelle Obama. Sana magandahan siya sa mapipili kong isusuot ko."

10TH BIRTHDAY

Masayang idinaos ang 10th birthday party ng anak ni Manny at Jinkee Pacquiao na si Emmanuel Jr. or Jemuel na ginanap sa Grand Ballroom ng Palms Country Club sa Filinvest Alabang nuong February 5.

Wrestle Mania nga ang theme ng birthday party ni Jemuel at karamihan sa kanyang mga bisita ay mga classmates at kaibigan niya sa kanyang pinapasukang Brent International School.

Hindi nga siyempre nawala ang mga sikat na magulang ni Jemuel na sila Manny at Jinkee. Present din ang mga kapatid niyang sila Michael, Princess at Queenie Pacquiao.

Hindi nga raw tumanggap ng anumang appointment si Pacman para mag-enjoy siya sa birthday party ng kanyang anak. Hindi nga kaila sa lahat na busy ito sa kanyang trabaho bilang congressman, pero para raw sa kanyang pamilya ay maglalaan siya ng oras.

"Basta pagdating sa family ko, sila ang uunahin ko," ngiti pa ni Pacman.

"Nag-promise ako kay Jemuel na hindi ako magiging busy sa birthday party niya. Gusto kong makasama ang mga kaibigan niya at ang mga magulang nila sa importanteng araw ng kapanganakan niya."

Wish nga ni Manny na lumaki na mabait, magalang, at may takot sa Diyos ang kanyang mga anak.

"Wish ko rin na maging maganda silang example sa ibang kabataan ngayon. Habang bata, tinuturuan na namin sila ng mga magagandang asal. Gusto namin na maging kapaki-pakinabang sila sa bansa natin balang-araw."

Si Jinkee naman ay hindi inaasa sa ibang tao ang paghanda ng birthday party ni Jemuel. Tumulong din siya sa pag-asikaso nito.

"Tuwing sasapit naman ang birthday ng mga bata, hindi puwedeng hindi ako tumulong. Hindi kumpleto kung hindi ako kikilos para maging maayos ang party nila," sabi ni Jinkee.

WRESTLE MANIA THEME

Si Jemuel nga raw ang pumili ng Wrestle Mania theme para sa party niya.

"Tinanong namin siya kung ano ang gusto niyang klaseng party? Gusto raw niya ay yung wrestling. Paborito niya kasi ang mga wrestling stars. Kaya okey lang, birthday naman niya," kwento ng kanyang ina.

"Pero sinabi ko kay Jemuel na okey lang na paborito niya, huwag lang siyang maging wrestler! Parang mas mahirap iyon kesa sa boxing, ‘di ba? Dasal ko na huwag siyang maging wrestler!"

Inamin ni Jinkee na minsan ay naiiyak siya dahil ang bibilis daw lumaki ng kanilang mga anak ni Manny. Kelan lang daw ay mga babies lang sila, pero ngayon ay malapit nang magbinata.
"Nagugulat nga ako, ang bilis nilang lumaki. In five years, mga binata na sila at panliligaw na ang gagawin nila. Huwag pa naman sana dahil para sa akin, mga babies pa rin sila.

"Pero ang maganda ay yung nakikita ko silang lumalaki. Parati naman akong kasama ng mga bata kaya alam ko ang mga gusto nila at mga kinikilos nila," ani Jinkee.

"Tulad nga ngayon, nasasama na sila sa mga biyahe namin ni Manny. Nitong nakaraang Pasko at New Year, out of the country kami. Kasama namin ang mga bata kaya mas enjoy. Unlike noon na nami-miss namin sila."

Wish nga ni Jinkee na huwag daw munang makaisip si Jemuel na manligaw or magkaroon ng crush sa mga classmates niyang babae. /MP

LVGP To Visit Aklan

The League of the Vice Governors of the Philippines (LVGP) will hold its 46th National Assembly to be held at Boracay Regency Beach Resort, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan on February 16-19, 2011.

The assembly will complete the 3rd Module of Diploma Course in Development Legislation and Governance of the vice governors being conducted by the Development Academy of the Philippines, reported Richie D. Oloroso of the Vice Governor’s office, Kalibo, Aklan.

The program aims to further capacitate the Vice Governors and make them strategic leaders with the knowledge and skills of Peace Builders, Development Instigators, Policy Makers, People’s Partners and Change Advocates.

Vice Governor Gabrielle V. Calizo-Quimpo stressed that crafting, passing, and steering of legislation proceeding of every Vice Governor is not enough even though it is their primary task. It is a process of inevitability to practice his/her role to be part of the development process and institute changes.

This national assembly in Boracay is realized through the initiative of the League of the Vice Governors of the Philippines under the new leadership of Vice Gov. Leonides M. Fausto, National President for the year 2010 – 2013 with the Aklan Vice Governor as National Treasurer. /MP

2 Students Drown, Saves 1

In their quest for happiness, they got sorrows due to a tragedy that befalls them. A group of 60 first year students of Altavas National High School went to Beach Terrace Resort in Barangay Songcolan, Batan, Aklan to unwind after the hectic schedule in their studies. It was in the morning of Saturday, February 5.

Those 60 first year students also went to Beach Terrace Resort in Songcolan, Batan to celebrate their victory as champion in the recently concluded Altavas, Ati-Atihan Festival.

However, at about 11:00 o’clock in the morning, the Aklan Provincial Police Office received a call about the drowning incident in Batan.

Upon instruction from Police Director Cornelio Defensor, the Batan PNP immediately proceeded to the scene of the accident to provide assistance.

Upon arrival in the area in Songcolan, the police saw one victim of drowning named Blessa Idala y Peniano. They immediately brought her to the Altavas District Hospital, Altavas for medical treatment. However, 10 minutes after arrival and while the attending physician was working to revive her, the victim expired.

Another victim, Jessabel Marcelino y Llopar survived after the physician applied emergency measures reported PO2 Nida L. Gregas. Jessabel is now under medical treatment in the hospital.

After two hours of the drowning, another victim of the incident, Kevin Bolneo was found floating dead according to the report of Batan Chief of Police Reynante Jomocan.

According to some witnesses, the victims were carried away by strong waves while they were swimming in the seacoast of Songcolan. /MP

Galicia Primary School Story

Galicia Primary School building, Galicia, Madalag.

The Galicia Primary School is a Grade 1 and 11 multi-grade school located in a hilly portion of Madalag. It is about 80 meters from the Timbaban River. This two years old well-furnished school building is made possible through the efforts of PLAN PHILIPPINES after the devastating Typhoon Frank wiped out the old school building on its old site. The building is a two conventional classroom. One room of which is used for regular classes and one room is used for indoor group activities. It was inaugurated on December 9, 2008.

The Construction of a flagpole is realized in 2009 through solicitation from the municipal officials like Hon. Fany N. Inosanto, SB member; and Hon. Rex T. Gubatina, Municipal Mayor all of Madalag for materials. Labor in the construction was of the parents.

The temporary bamboo railing is now weak which is hazardous for the pupils. This problem was brought to the attention of the barangay and PTA of Madalag officials during the PTCA meeting. They agreed to consult the municipal engineer of Madalag for the cost estimate. A resolution was approved to the Hon. Mayor Rex T. Gubatina of Madalag requesting financial assistance for the construction/rehabilitation of concrete post and railings.

Mayor Gubatina readily allocated the amount of Php50,000 for the construction which was finished on August 11, 2010. The improvised railing was made possible in another "bayanihan" of the parents.

Another project of the school for 2011 is electrification. With the collaboration of the barangay officials and the school, electrification is realized. The classes holding go on even during rainy days.

The lot was donated by two families who are Sailog and Nagales. They donated 1,000 square meter each or a total of 2,000 sq.m. /MP

Join the ASU (main) Alumni Homecoming
Banga, Aklan, April 25, 2011

EDITORIAL

The Need To Conserve Water

by ERNESTO T. SOLIDUM

Water is source of life. Yet this precious mineral resource is getting scarcer and expensive. Kapehan forum on January 29, 2011 at Smokehauz Resto & Bar where Atty. Edmund Peralta, Chairman BOD and Engr. Renato Albar, Gen. Manager of Metro Kalibo Water District (MKWD) discussed the topic, "MKWD" Waterage Structure and Performance."

Atty. Ronquillo C. Tolentino said that prior to issuance of PD 118 by Pres. Marcos on Sept. 28, 1979, local waterwork was managed by municipal government of Kalibo. It constructed several pumping stations and a tall tower near the Kalibo Pilot Elem. School. Failure in its operation was traced to poor water quality since it was salty.

The consideration to determine water rates must be striking a balance between revenue formation, the operational expenses, and capital investment on one hand and the cost of the product must be affordable to a large majority of the consumers on the other.

According to Atty. Peralta, the MKWD is classified as Government Owned and Controlled Corporation (GOCC) and therefore covered by Civil Service Rules, COA, DBM and all others. Its management and super-vision are governed by policies of the Local Utilities and Waterworks Administration (LUWA). Its plan to raise water rates from P1.70 – P2.05 per cubic meter was postponed by six months as a result of public clamor for more socialized pricing. (after six months will there be no negative public clamor?)

In its approved Board Resolution No. 081 (08) starting January 2011, their minimum charge for residential/government offices with 1" pipe is P656.00 while commercial/industrial with same size is P1,312.00. Wholesale/bulk concessionaires pay triple that of residential rate.

The above stated rate increases should have been implemented in 2007 to realize expansion goals and satisfy amortization payment of P18 million per month to LUWA said Atty. Edmund Peralta, former Mayor of New Washington. "We are trying our level best that our clienteles that grow by 1,200 per year be provided with improved facilities by 2020", he added.

"Their rate increase is based on three con-siderations namely: quality, affordability and reliability. Quality water must be odorless, colorless and free of harmful pathogens. Our chlorine is auto-matically injected into the system, distribution outlets monitored/checked by technicians and samples regularly sent to Iloilo City for laboratory analysis", Renato Albar, general manager stressed.

"The best gauge that our pricing policy reflects affordability is that con-sumer payment compliance is excellent. Moreover, service water delivery remains unhampered even during power outages. Virtually it has weathered natural calamities as typhoon and flood" (except Typhoon Frank ’08), Albar added.

Presently 20,000 consumers are serviced by MKWD in towns of Kalibo, New Washington and Banga. Numancia has pending application to join MKWD. The net revenue generated in 2008 was P9 million and P11 million in 2009. This is a remarkable MKWD performance for an outfit that hardly gets P1.5 million in its fledgling year.

Stupendous Salaries And Benefits

Based on COA report the Board of Directors members of GOCCs’ are notorious in allocating for themselves stupendous salaries and fringe benefits. MKWD is no exception. They receive P33,300 per month or P8,305 per week as they attend meetings. Christmas bonus is P25,000 where the country’s’ minimum wage is P10,000 per month.

Even if the above compensation is approved by Civil Service Commission, MKWD officials must have the moral compunction to limit their excesses. There are good reasons to believe that majority of impending P.35 rate increase per cubic meter is meant only for rapacious officials of BOD. (It is P70 minimum increase for one half (1/2) inch pipe for commercial establishments.)

Manager Albar conceded that sediments of sand and minerals come out of the faucet at certain times because of periodic flushing. He said this is expected because the sediment holding tank is not yet constructed. How soon?

Well, water quality of MKWD falls from its standard. By its own admission, there is no consistency. Sprouting of water processing plants in coverage areas of the utility firm only confirms that consumers are wary of foreign particles in their drinking water.

One interesting aspect in price increases is also the drive to conserve water. As water becomes expensive due to climate change, pollution and population, people could be responsive to attitudinal changes in water consumption.

Access to quality water and efficient service delivery come with a price. By the end of this decade, the source of ground water and or surface water definitely will come from a distant place like Libacao. Confronted by this prospect, individual consumers must decide between judicious water consumption or profligate one. Undoubtedly conservation of water is a necessity now and always. /MP

Entrepreneurial Farmer

Ambrosio R. Villorente

Illegitimate Children

In Aklan Province, children born from January to August 2010, reached 5,899 of which 2,694 or 48 percent are illegitimate while 3,205 or 52 percent are legitimate. Mr. Blas Solidum, provincial director of the National Census and Statistics reported. This is a serious community problem, the morality of our people that must be addressed jointly by the church and local government units.

Rev. Father Victor Salido of St. Joseph Spouse of Mary Parish, Banga is campaigning to legitimize the live-in partners living like husband and wife. In Makato, Mayor Ramon Legaspi has that "Kasalan ng Bayan" project.

How about the other towns? This trend of producing illegitimate children will continue if the community did nothing to halt it. The LGUs with the church should lead in this. The tri-media can as well help.

NW Fishery Code

The Aklan Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) is scheduled to conduct a joint committee hearing on the "Revised Municipal Fishery Code of the Municipality of New Washington" on Monday, Feb. 7. Will the joint committee on agriculture, laws, and ordinances recommend this code for approval by the SP in its regular session?

A group of interested persons has come up with a position paper strongly objecting against some controversial provisions of the said New Washington Fishery Code. If the committee members in their joint committee favorably consider the position paper submitted, there is no way at all this time that the said code will be recommended for approval. The best they can do is return the said code to SB New Washington for fine tuning, conduct a public hearing, and remove the provisions objected to and conforms with the National Fishery Code and the Fishery Administrative Order.

Retirement Plan

The SOPA of Gov. Carlito S. Marquez presented to Aklan SP members, government officials in Aklan and guests revealed the amount of P1.016 million was spent for 2,032 for qualified senior citizen beneficiaries. "In this year’s budget are allocations for death aid for our senior citizens and a monthly honorarium for the officers of the Provincial Federation. We also provide a medical assistance of P1,000 for any senior citizen confined at DRSTMH," announced Gov. Marquez.
　

Suggestions

Perhaps the budget allocation for this death aid is not enough annually. If this column is allowed to suggest, the office that implements this death aid project may come up with an Annual Project Plan to follow which will show among others the objects of the project, number of target beneficiaries, order of priorities of availment, the requirements to avail of the aid, and the process to follow.

Agriculture

Reading Governor Marquez’ 2011 SOPA, I feel delighted for he devoted six pages out of his 36 pages report or 17 percent of his report. He reported his accomplish-ments on rice, fish, vegetable, mango, abaca, cattle, swine, goat, coffee, irrigation, and other projects in support to agriculture.

Perhaps, Gov. Marquez, with the 17 LGUs, can include agricultural extension in agriculture programs. Of all the factors of production, men are the most important. The quality and quantity of products produced are dependent upon the men producing it.

In Philippine agriculture, including Aklan, our farmers are aging. They suffer sickness like diabetes and arthritis. Can they withstand climate change doing chores in the farms?

Maybe, our LGUs can come up with a program to entice the young men and women who are the heirs apparent of the land to prepare themselves to engage in farming. One way is to provide more scholarships for them in agriculture, fisheries, and allied courses like agricultural engineering and plant breeding. /MP

Extend ‘Pabaon’ Probe To All Former Chief of Staff - Chiz

The Senate blue ribbon committee should extend its current investigation to all former chiefs of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to determine if the "pabaon" practice has been going on for a long time, Senator Chiz Escudero said last week.

This suggestion came after a retired Lt. Col. revealed last week Senate hearing that former AFP chief of staff Angelo Reyes received a P50-million "sendoff" gift, or what’s commonly known in the military circle as　　"pabaon". On top of that, Reyes was said to have received a monthly take of at least P5 million during his 20-month stint as chief of staff.

Retired Lt. Col. George Rabusa had admitted into delivering the money amounting to P50 million to Reyes’ quarters in Camp Aguinaldo in 2001, the year when the latter retired from his post. Rabusa said he brought the money to Reyes together with then military comptroller, Lt. Gen. Jacinto Ligot.

"I urge the blue ribbon committee to seriously look into this matter. It should include former chiefs of the AFP because if this is really an ongoing tradition, it must be nipped in the bud," Escudero said.

"It is an outright mockery of justice that while soldiers who really fight hard die in the field, their officials swim in cash while cooling their heels inside their air-conditioned offices," Escudero added.

Escudero, chairman of the Senate defense and security committee, also wanted to probe the other officers involved in slashing funds in order to come up with a slush fund for distribution to ranking officials and outside recipients.

Rabusa said almost a billion pesos was pooled from the "provisions for command directed activities" fund and "savings" from the personnel services budget of the military.

"These former officers have a lot to answer for because if what Col. Rabusa is saying is true, that is not only graft and corruption, that is definitely technical malversation," the senator pointed out.

The senator said the testimony of the colonel should be reduced to an affidavit or if his testimony was made under oath, it should immediately be used to file a plunder complaint against Reyes.

"The ‘I cannot remember’ answer of Secretary Reyes was not an outright denial in spite of the categorical accusation. If it were totally untrue, he’d be defending himself to his teeth," he said.

According to Escudero, it was appalling to learn that the excesses of these military officials account for the decrepit supplies of the soldiers who are really in the line of fire and are actually fighting.

"Now we don’t have to wonder why we have defective arms in the military, why our soldiers are ill- equipped and why they are poorly-rationed in the field: their officials have busied themselves fully arming their personal bank accounts," Escudero stressed. /MP

2011 Marquez SOPA

"More jobs, more infrastructures, more economic activities, more livelihood opportunities, more resources our government – a better future for Aklan and the Aklanons", Governor Carlito S. Marquez assured his people before the overflowing crowd on Wednesday morning, February 2 when he delivered his State of the Province Address (SOPA) held in the SP session hall, Provincial Capitol, Kalibo.
The Aklan journalists were requested to stay outside of the session hall during the SOPA. Hence, they stayed outside and enjoyed conversing.
Allowed inside the session hall were invited guests like the municipal mayors and municipal vice mayors, national, provincial, and municipal officials, department heads and other very important persons.
The SOPA over, the session was temporarily suspended, snacks were served. The VIPs were first served while the members of the fourth estate were told to wait.
Gov. Marquez highly recognized the accomplishment of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan for "these enactments... necessary to facilitate and support" development programs. He thanked the members of the Aklan SP
Marquez reported on the major sources of provincial funds which collection increased tremendously. These sources are from ports and jetty port, tourism, mining, sand and gravel, and real estate property taxes.
The EEDD and general fund grossed P829 million in 2010 which is 14 percent higher than 2009. Marquez also reported the money accomplishments of DTI and BIR in Aklan.
Anchored on the theme: "Finding the key to fit the lock: Assess...Empower... Implement...Sustain for a Progressive Aklan Com-munity", the provincial budget is addressed to realize the "united aspirations to the Aklanons need for quality service", Marquez declared.
The 2011 budget amounts to P587.9 million for general fund and P388.4 million for EEDD or a total of P976.3 million.
The budget just lacks P28.7 million to reach one billion pesos. Is Aklan a billionaire? This is third highest in Region VI as to amount allocation. This amount, almost a billion peso budget for 2011 will be spent for the following programs, projects, and activities.
1. Youth, Sports, Education: scholarships of about 1,000 scholars, food, program, teachers salaries, and hosts sports projects.
2. Agriculture like rice, corn, fruits, and vegetables, abaca production, fisheries, livestock development and production like cattle, goats, and repair of irrigation systems.
3. Infrastructure – construction of sports complex, repair of provincial guest house, construction of brand new two storey building, and the concreting, improvement and repair of provincial, municipal, and barangay roads, and for the construction of drainage canals, slope, protection works, flood control, and maintenance works. For Guadalupe bridge, Madalag, the amount of P184.8 million is budgeted. Construction is in progress. Caticlan Jetty Port is being upgraded.
Health – Tuberculosis is delisted from the top 10 leading cause of illness in Aklan. It is ranked number six cause of death. The 7.99 percent malnutrition among school children in 2009 is lowered to only 6.49 percent in 2010. There are now 203 botika sa barangay established or about 72 percent out of 327 barangays. There are now 44,437 Philhealth cardholders.
Tourism – the tourists arrivals in Boracay increased from 649,559 in 2009 to 779,666 or 20 percent in 2010. Of this number, 278,531 were foreigners, a 44.41 percent increased from 192,873 in 2009. This number of tourists brought an estimated P14.3 billion revenues.
To rehabilitate inmates in the jail, regular counseling services, gift giving projects, sports, and medical services are done.
Is there peace and order in Aklan? In 2010, the SOPA states 2,026 crimes were reported committed or 34 crimes per month. This is more than one per day. /MP