Entrepreneurial Farmer

By Ambrosio R. Villorente

It’s A Holiday On May 14

On Monday, May 14 will be an official public holiday in the Philippines. There will be no office because that day is a national and local elections. All qualified voters are expected to go to their respective polling places to cast their votes for the servant leaders whom we, you and I will entrust to manage the affairs of government.
After months of campaigning, it is hoped all the candidates have had presented themselves to the electorates. They should have very well presented their qualifications to the voters such as their education and training, experiences, and track records sufficient to discharge the functions of the office or offices they are aspiring for.
Among the candidates, we will elect 31 out of the candidates to the May 14 election. We will elect 12 senators, one congressman, governor, vice governor, five (5) sangguniang panlalawigan members, one party-list, mayor, vice mayor and eight (8) members of the sangguniang bayan of the municipality where we are voting.
Each party-list a group of people who belong to a disadvantage or marginalized group not otherwise represented in congress. A voter votes for a party and not the individual. A party-list which obtained two (2) percent of all the votes cast is entitled to one (1) representative to the House of Representatives. The number one nominee of that partylist will represent that party-list group.
Candidates List
Since a voter may vote for 31 candidates, it is of high possibility to forget the names of the candidates whom a voter has earlier decided to vote for. A voter who has no list will spend more time recalling the name of the 31 candidates he/she has decided to vote for. His/her hurry to finish voting may force him/her to write names of candidates not of his/her choice. Therefore, list is needed.
Probably, he/she will just fold his ballot leaving several spaces blank and give it to the poll clerk. He/she forfeited the right to vote. Moreover, the blank spaces maybe filled up by interested persons of the names of other candidates, hence, induces cheating, and the election will not reflect the "will" of the people.
Factors To Consider In Voting
Suffrage is both an individual right and a duty to country. While qualified voters have the right to vote, voters have also the duty to vote for the candidates who are best qualified and suited for the positions they are aspiring for. The voters must follow certain basis in voting. They must consider candidates’ motivation why they are aspiring for that position. Voters must examine the candidates’ competencies to fulfill their platform of government once elected to that position. Voters must examine the past performance and activities of the candidates.
During campaign period, the candidates for various positions must have fully discussed their qualifications, platform of government and their previous performances with the electorates. On this basis, the voters may rank the candidates. In case of Senators, 12 will be elected. So that the top 12 candidates will be your choice. This procedure may be followed also in the case of sangguniang panlalawigan members – top 5 and sangguniang bayan members – top 8.
Voters may also rank candidates for congressman, governor, vice governor, mayor and vice mayor and vote for the number one rank.
Safeguarding Votes
Your votes will mean nothing unless properly credited and counted for the candidates whom voters voted. There is a need to be vigilant to safeguard votes. Voters may watch the canvassing, tabulation and summation of votes. They must guard the ballot boxes to avoid switching until it reached the hands of the designated storage room and custodian. Voters must watch to prevent the tampering of Certificates of Canvass.
This May 14 election perhaps will be the last chance of the Philippines to elect the most deserving servant leaders who are honest, intelligent, diligent and capable to redeem the lost glory of the Philippines. May those officials concerned in the management of the election do their jobs with maximum honesty and integrity. This election is the last chance to stop graft and corruption in the government and alleviate massive poverty.
I hope the charge of Ms. Maria Betina Mobo Garcia of the arrivals of election magicians in Aklan is not true and no election anomaly will ever happen in Aklan more so in the whole Philippines. /MP

Monument of Corruption

When you go the polling places to cast your votes on Monday, May 14 please consider the present status and the future of our only country, the Philippines. Kindly consider the present status and the future of our children.
There is one very important virtue at this time our leaders must have to lead us, which is Honesty. If our leaders are honest, other virtues will be found with them.
Who is an honest person? He is a person held in respect, a person who does not lie, cheat, or steal. He is truthful, trustworthy, straightforward. He gives or earns by fair methods, not by lying, cheating or stealing.
When you cast your vote on Monday, remember this small toilet along the national road going to Banga, just in front of Milagrosa, Cemetery, Estancia, Kalibo as the monument of corruption.
This is a monument of corruption constructed at a cost of P500,000.00, according to the DPWH, Kalibo, Aklan. This building has been standing there for about two years now but the Barangay chair of Estancia, Kalibo refused to receive it for that is "not the structure Estancia needs."
Cost estimates for its construction by both professional engineers and amateurs never go beyond P200,000. Some estimated it at P150,000. Where is the P300,000 price difference? A friend asked. "It went to someone’s pocket or bank deposit," he himself answered. There is no responsible person who filed any complaint. Is this graft business syndicated?
A visit to the toilet will confirm the toilet is closed. Water and electricity are cut off. It is inutile. Is this dishonesty tolerated by the PGMA government, notorious of telling lies? /MP

Judge Biliran Stops Akelco Rate Increases

By Ambrosio R. Villorente

"Defendants Akelco and Mirant Global (Philippines) Corporation are hereby ordered to cease and desist from further implementing the terms and conditions embodied in the Amended Electric Power Purchase Ag-reement…to stop implementing the increase power rates approved by the Energy Regulatory Commission…" This is the decision Hon. Ledelia P. Aragona Biliran penned on Civil Case No. 7385.
This case is the "Annulment of Contract With Prayer for Issuance of Preliminary Mandatory Injunction and/or Temporary Restraining Order". This case was filed by Mr. Rodson F. Mayor as plaintiff and Cong. Florencio T. Miraflores as plaintiff-Intervenor against Akelco represented by Augusto C. Tolentino, Wilfredo Ortiz, Mirant Global (Phils.) Corporation as defendants and Avon River Power Holdings, Corporation as defendant-Intervenor.
The case decided is a petition for the issuance of temporary restraining order (TRO) filed by Cong. Florencio T. Miraflores – plaintiff intervenor and Rodson F. Mayor–plaintiff to direct Akelco and Mirant Global Corp. to desist from implementing any increase or stop the implementation of the increase of the electricity rates in accordance with the amended contract entered into by Akelco and Mirant Global Corp. The subject of contention are the Energy Power Purchase Agreement (EPPA) dated October 1, 2003, and the amended EPPA signed on August 3, 2004, the two contracts are all between Akelco and Mirant.
The case is being heard in Branch 2, Regional Trial Court, Kalibo, Aklan presided by Judge Ledelia P. Aragona Biliran.
According to the records of the case, the Amended EPPA was approved by the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) in its decision dated August 2, 2006. Akelco, without informing its clients, implemented gradually the rate increase starting in Akelco billing for the period October-November 2006.
In the words of Atty. Edgar Peralta, legal counsel of Cong. Miraflores, Akelco fooled the people of Aklan through "systematic deception". In his testimonies, Miraflores admitted he signed the EPPA between Akelco and Mirant as a witness stipulating terms and conditions, one of which "provides that the rates to be imposed would be equal if not lower than what the National Power Corporation (NAPOCOR) was charging.
However, without his knowledge, the contract (EPPA) was amended on August 3, 2004 and the increased rates were applied based on the Amended Contract…which rates are different from and much higher than what was contained in the Original Contract. Moreover, there was also a provision in the Amended Contract giving Mirant the unilateral right to terminate the contract at its own discretion, which is contrary to law."
Furthermore, "the original contract also appears to have been signed by the Board of Directors of Akelco without any authority," no public hearing conducted, the matter was not submitted to the consumer-members before the execution and completion of the original as well as the amended contract.
Miraflores testified, he just suddenly learned ERC has approved the Akelco-Mirant Amended EPPA on August 2, 2006 and which Akelco started to implement the new rate in its October-November 2006 billings. Miraflores made it clear that he is not questioning the EPPA but the increase in power rates and the exclusivity clause which provides that Akelco must only buy its power needs from Mirant even if there are available electricity from other power producers at much cheaper cost than that supplied by Mirant Global Corporation.
Since September, 2006 to April, 2007, Akelco increased its power generation charge from P2.99 to P4.74 per kilowatt hour or an increase of P1.75 or 58 percent.
Meanwhile, Akelco announced the reduction of its power rate at P1.30 per kilowatt hour in the May 2007 billing.
According to Judge Biliran, the grant of preliminary injunction is an extraordinary remedy calculated to preserve the status quo and to prevent actual or threatened acts violative of the rules of equal and good conscience. "Its sole purpose is not to correct a wrong of the past…but to prevent further injury." Hence, the TRO. Akelco must go back and charge electric power generation rate equal if not lower than what NAPOCOR charges. It is also expected Akelco refunds the consumer- members with the money paid higher than what NAPOCOR is charging.
The next hearing of the case is set at 8:30 in the morning, Tuesday, June 19, 2007 in RTC, Branch 2, Kalibo, Aklan. /MP

Mike Defensor Courts Aklanon Voters

By John Ron Ropa

Secretary MIGUEL "Mike ‘Tol" DEFENSOR (center)

with Gov. Carlito S. Marquez and Ms. Melrose S. Lunn.

Team Unity Senatorial candidate Mike Defensor had visited Aklan on May 5, 2007. He arrived Kalibo in the afternoon at the Governor’s Guest House, Estancia, Kalibo, Aklan. Upon arrival, he met the Aklan tri-media and discussed his legislative plan once elected to the senate. He assured he will put developmental projects for the province of Aklan.
Defensor discussed his land distribution recommendation in the island of Boracay while he was the Secretary of the Department of Environmental and Natural Resources. His recommendation to award land ownership by public bidding was badly criticized. He studied which was most acceptable regarding the ownership of the land whether it will remain government property or will be an alienable and disposable land then distribute to the occupants and or buyers.
For him, the popularity of Boracay should not face this kind of problem where most of the people have no land title. He wanted to add some developments to Boracay in order for the island to compete more in terms of tourism not only in the national but for the whole world.
He also committed to support the developmental projects of the three leaders of Aklan who are Congressman Joeben Miraflores, Gorvernor Lito Marquez, and Vice Governor Kel Tolentino. According to Defensor, he is just a "phone call" away if they needed him. One project is the airport at Kalibo where they wanted to expand the area to accommodate international flights so that many tourists can visit the island of Boracay. The conversion of Kalibo to become a city was also discussed with Mike Defensor where he assured his support.
On the other hand, Defensor was asked regarding the controversy between him and his running mate Governor Chavit Singson. He clarified that Singson’s family and his family were close. He assured that this conflict will just die down. /MP

STI Kalibo College Holds Graduation

Some 108 students of STI College Kalibo graduated last week of various Information Communication Technology courses. The 9th Commencement Exercises was held at Sampaguita Gardens, New Washington, Aklan.
Dr. Ambrosio R. Villorente, publisher of Madyaas Pen and professor of public administration at Aklan State University, Banga, Aklan was the graduation guest and speaker. Introduced by Engr. Leslie S. Cabañez, head of Computer Engineering, Dr. Villorente delved his speech on how to conquer poverty. According to him, "poverty thrives best and rapid where ignorance pervades. To liberate oneself of poverty, he must fight it. One must be educated, industrious, persistent and thrifty." He stressed, "Poverty is highly enhanced by government corruption, so that Villorente challenged the graduates to elect the most honest servant leaders on the May 14 elections.
Of the 108 graduates, 47 completed Diploma in Computer and Electronics Technology; 17 Diploma in Computer Studies; 12 Diploma in Office Skills and Management; 15 BS in Business Administration; six (6) BS in Computer Science; and 11 BS in Information Technology.
Those who received academic honors are Coral Ann M. Constantino, Charmil D. Castillano, Danica Y. Zaquita, Maricel B. Tan, Elve O. Yupano, Rebecca D. Nacubuan, and Maria Susette A. Agonias.
The Rotary Leadership Award and PSITE Academic Award went to Rebecca D. Nacubuan.
STI College Kalibo is being administered by Ms. Minchu D. Decena–Chief Executive Officer, Ms. Ezzra V. Eudela– Chief Operating Officer and Ms. Theza May P. Hipolito–College Dean. /MP

Institutionalizing Forest Certification In The Philippines

Bamboo bridge leading to the beautiful beach.

A swamp replanted with Bakhawan in Buswang New, Kalibo, Aklan. This is now called Bakhawan Eco Park and serving as tourists attraction.

Panoramic view of Bakhawan Eco Tourism Park in Kalibo.

Forests are more than a community of plants, animals and trees. They are more than just a place to enjoy nature and its wonders. Forests are a critical life support system. They provide air to breath, food, medicine, and other life supporting services. Forests also provide livelihoods to local communities.
Unfortunately, much of earth’s forests have been destroyed or converted for other purposes. In the Philippines, more than half of the forests have been converted for food production and industrial purposes. Hence, sustainably managing the forests has become a critical task for the Philippines. (Other areas remain deforested.)
Forest certification is one of the most important initiatives in protecting forests from unsustainable use. It is a system of forest inspection and tracking to ensure that forest products entering the international market have come from sustainably managed forests or production forests.
In the Philippines, forest certification has been initiated not only to protect the forests but also to help make Philippine furniture and handicrafts more competitive.
Under the PCARRD -funded Furniture and Handicraft R&D Program, the initial steps for forest certification in the country have been done through the pro-ject "Institutionalizing Forest Certification in Support of the Furniture and Handicraft In-dustry." However, much work still needs to be done, according to project reviewers.
The initiative is very timely as the com-petition and quality requirements (such as forest certification) in the world market continue to intensify such that Philippine furniture and handicraft suppliers find it difficult to compete nowadays.
Implemented by the University of the Philippines at Los Baños-College of Forestry and Natural Resources (UPLB-CFNR), the project conducted a series of workshops to orient the stakeholders on forest certification, its institutionalization in other countries, and its links to sustainable forest management.
The workshop series resulted in the willingness of stake-holders to share resources and expertise for forest certification in Region 13, where more than two-thirds of land area is forestland. This, in the long-term, will result in a sustainable supply of quality raw materials for the furniture and handi-craft industry.
The stakeholders also identified their possible roles and contributions in the process of insti-tutionalizing forest certification.
The workshops also facilitated the for-mulation of criteria and indicators to be used in certifying forest plantations. A total of seven criteria and 58 indicators were tested in the field. On this basis, stakeholders came up with a final list of criteria and indicators. This is expected to expedite the process of institutionalizing forest certification as the identified criteria and indicators closely respond to the require-ments of accrediting bodies like the Forest Stewardship Council.
A working group created from the project, which has already been com-pleted, picked up the project recommen-dations to continue pursuing the de-velopment of a forest certification scheme for the CARAGA region. Among the important recommendations is the dissemination of the project results to inform concerned agencies/stakeholders on the importance of forest certification.
The project also re-commended involving the stakeholders in-cluding those not initially consulted by the project like the peoples’ organizations and church groups. (Ma. Rowena M. Baltazar, S&T Media Service) /MP

Sugilanon Ni Tita Linda

Tita Linda Belayro

Pagbilog It Buean

Sa tanan nga kutob nga naga ta-o it kahayag sa atong kalibutan, guina dayaw ag guina handum ro pagbilog it buean. May mga tribu sa parte it Aprika nga guina hueat nanda ro pagbilog ko buean bangud naga pakita kanda ro andang guinatu-ohan nga diyos-diyos. May una man nga mga tribu nga naga hueat sa pagbilog ko buean tongod nagabuskad ro isaeang klaseng bueak nga naga ta-o it agimat o kundi hay naka pamayad it ano man nga klase nga baeati-an it tawo. Iya sa Pilipinas, may una man nga mga tawo nga naga pakasae sa kabilogan ko buean tongod raya sa andang pagpati hay naga kahueogan it bugna nga pagpangabuhi bangud rong bilog hay simbolo it kwarta.
Sa isaeang ka pamusod it kalibutan, may isaeang ka pamilya nga kada pagbilog it buean hay may hakikit-an sandang pinulbos nga bueawan sa andang ugsaran pagka-aga. Kon siin maghalin rayang regalo, owa masayori ko rayang pamilya.
Sa kada pagbilog it buean, ro mga tinuga sa idauem it eogta, mga duwende, engkanto, kapre ag iba pa nga naga estar sa idauem it eogta hay naga saka sa ibabaw agod mahayagan it buean ag mag-eawig ro andang kabuhi.
Isaeang bes nga nagbilog ro buean, nagbuka ro eogta sa ibabaw ko kaharian it mga engkanto ag dwende. Ko oras ngato, nag guwa man ro reyna ag hari agod mamasyar. May hakita sanda nga isaeang ka onga nga babaye, kaibahan ko anang ina nga naga poeot it basura.
Naila mag pamantaw ro reyna tongod gwapa, maputi ag mahaba it buhok. Si Limay ro anang ngaean. Nag baylo ro anang dagway ko reyna ag nangin isaeang ka daeagang gwapa. Guin sampit ko reyna si Limay agod magpamasyar. Ogaling umabot ro anang inang si Isabel ag guin pauli si Limay. Bangud sa mabuot nga pagka unga si Limay, nagsunod imaw sa anang ina. Naduea ro hari ag reyna ag nagbalik sa andang kaharian.
Halin kato, guin bantayan nanda rayang si Limay hasta nga nangin isaeang ka hamtong nga daeaga. Sa pag lipas it pilang buean, namatay ro asawa ko hari. Sa pagkabaeo ko hari, guinkaila-an nana si Limay. Abo nga mga regalo ro anang daea kada visita ogaling owa guid magbaton si Limay. Ko olihi, nagmasakit ro anang ina ag kinahangean nga daehon sa hospital agod ipa bo-eong. Samtang naga bantay si Limay sa ospital, may nagpakita kana nga isaeang ka eaeaki nga iba ro anang hitsura. Guinsugid nana nga may daea imaw nga kwarta halin sa anang amo nga guina bulig sa pag-pabueong sa anang ina. Tongod sa bulig it hari, nagmayad ro ina ni Limay. Pag-uli sa andang baeay, naghueat ro mga dama it hari agud sueangon si Limay. Bangud sa anang pagmahae sa anang ina, nagpasugot imaw nga magmunot idto sa idaeum. Ro mga bueawan nga kubyertos, baso, pinggan ag iba pa hay guin aywan sa anang ina. Masakit sa anang ina ro desisyon ni Limay, ogaling ha-um ro daeaga nga mag sakripisyo para sa anang pamilya.
Nangin reyna si Limay sa kaharian it mga dwende. Ogaling guina-sugtan mat-a imaw nga magbisita sa ibabaw it eogta kada magbilog ro buean. /MP

EDITORIAL - April 29 - May 5 Issue

Gonzalez And His P10,000 Trap

The Social Weather Station (SWS) survey showed that 40 percent of people surveyed believed Ms. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo "will cheat" in the coming May 14 election.
But why will she cheat? She is not a candidate for any position. She is already the President of the Philippines and will hold the position until June 30, 2010. She can only prolong her stay beyond 2010 if: 1. she can persuade the people to amend the 1987 constitution of the Philippines including the extension of her presidency, and 2. by extra – constitutional means.
Those who believed PGMA will cheat in the coming election pointed to the offer of Secretary of Justice Raul Gonzalez of P10,000 incentive to any barangay captain in Iloilo City who will deliver 12 – 0 victory for Team Unity as one indication of the probability to cheat. This is the first time in Philippine history that a Secretary of Justice made, in the perception of the learned, is so inept, so stupid. It has sealed Sec. Gonzalez himself in a trap of his own making.
Sec. Gonzalez before TV cameras, radio and TV interviews confirmed he made the promise. According to Gonzalez, his promise is an election strategy, a prize and incentive. According to him, there is no election where candidates will not give incentives to their ward leaders. Has he been doing these before? If so, he must have repeatedly violated election laws.
At first, Comelec chair Benjamin Abalos refrained from giving his comment on the matter. It is understandable for Abalos is normally protective of the present administration. Nevertheless, Abalos was prompted to comment: "anything equivalent to vote – buying is illegal. In vote-buying, even a promise by itself is already illegal." Sec. Gonzalez made a promise to give incentive of P10,000 to barangay captain in Iloilo City who could deliver a 12 – 0 victory for Team Unity. Is Gonzalez guilty of violating the election laws particularly the Omnibus Election Code on vote buying?
According to chairman Abalos, since Gonzalez made the offer as published in the newspapers and shown in television programs, he does not need a complaint to be filed before his office. If Sec. Gonzalez really did it as per newspaper reports, "he might be liable," said Abalos.
Will Abalos order investigation of the Gonzalez offer? The investigation may find out whether Sec. Gonzalez has actually violated the Omnibus Election Code. When the investigation starts, Gonzalez’s position as Secretary of Justice is hard to maintain and his jobs become untenable. He will have impaired credibility and his impartiality as Justice Secretary is highly questionable. But the Comelec has announced the inquiry on the P10,000 offer involving the highest judicial official of the PGMA Cabinet.
In the course of the investigation, what will Gonzalez do? What will PGMA do? Will PGMA fire Sec. Gonzalez? This will be very hard on her part to do. Sec. Gonzalez is a very instrumental man in her election to the presidency. It was Gonzalez who placed "noted" on all election returns objected by the opposition. If PGMA will not dismiss him, will Gonzalez step down?
This is as well very difficult for it will bring great damage to the administration. Will Gonzalez and PGMA succumb to the call from numerous groups for Gonzalez to go on leave while the P10,000 offer is being investigated?
But Gonzalez does not listen to suggestions from extraneous sources. In the words of Amando Doronila, Gonzalez "has a thick hide." In his opinion and analysis, Amando Doronila believes, that the "continued presence of Gonzalez in the Cabinet while the Comelec conducts the investigation affronts public opinion. It highlights the degraded ethical culture of the government, the tone of which is set by the President."
Gonzalez has clearly shown his impunity to act above the law. His dismissal as Secretary of Justice might regain for the government the integrity, equality and credibility of the rule of law in the Philippines. /MP

Probity And Excellence In ICt*

* Speech of EF delivered during the 9th Graduation Ceremony of STI-College Kalibo held in Sampaguita Gardens, New Washignton, Aklan in the afternoon of Friday, April 27, 2007.

Greetings!
I am grateful to Ms. Ezzra V. Eudela, your chief operating officer for her invitation for me to be your guest and speaker on your 9th Commencement Exercises this afternoon. My appreciation is given as well to the graduating students and to their parents, the school administration of the sti College in Kalibo, Aklan.
I did not think more, but accept the invitation instantly when Ms. Eudela relayed it to me. The invitation letter said "your presence will mean so much not only to our graduates but also to the entire sti College Kalibo community."
I always feel good should I am asked to inspire other people and make them happy for happiness is the greatest good. I am now more inspired because of your presence. You are completing academic degrees. You are here today to receive your diploma, a symbol of accomplishment, your fulfillment, your victory after years of battle using your brain, your senses, your effort, your time and your tears.
Please use your knowledge, skills and positive attitudes in your journey to the stars, your weapon in search for your "holy grail", your happiness.
To the graduates, I give you all my sincere congratulations! This graduation could not have taken place without you. You are now part of the competent resource of the Philippines specifically of Aklan who will develop this country to a beautiful, peaceful and abundant place to live in.
Congratulations to our dear parents who spent resources, gave encouragement, and provided moral suasion so that your sons and daughters are now fulfilling their dreams, their aspirations, their ambitions. Congratulations to the sti college instructors for your generosity to impart to the graduates your knowledge, skills and positive attitudes. I am sure these will be the graduates’ passport to their journey to success, helpful in their quest for real life. Congratulations as well to the sti College for providing the venue so that conducive teaching – learning have taken place.
Today graduates, you are here to receive confirmation, you are the cream of the crop, you are successful, to receive your diplomas. However, this is not the end of the journey for another journey has just started.
After this graduation, what shall you do? Please do not stop from here. Continue learning while making your living. Continue the quest to knock out poverty and corruption.
Probity And
Excellence In ICt
"Probity and excellence in ICT" is your graduation theme. In my thinking, probity means uprightness in one’s dealings, it is integrity, it is complete honesty. On the other hand, excellence is superiority, something in which a person excels.
My dear graduates, i expect you to be excellent on information technology among others, the career of your choice. I expect you all to be superior in honesty, to be upright in dealing with our fellow beings: our superior, our peers and subordinates. I expect and challenge you all sti college graduates to be honest. I challenge you all to act in all occasions with probity and excellence.
The Philippines is in need of men with the virtue called honesty. If the Filipinos can only act in all occasions with utmost honesty and integrity, our country can be one among the first world countries now.
In 1963, the Philippines was the second wealthiest country in Asia. Today, the Philippines is the second poorest in Asia. Moreover, we have a new record, the Philippines is the number one corrupt country in Asia. What a shame!
But do not despair. You, graduates are the inspirations, the redeemers to restore past glory! Remember, "Life is what we make it". You are rationale, you have your choice. Do you like to be wealthy? Or will you allow yourself to be poor?
sti college is geared to improve the general welfare and the betterment of life for the members of the community, the enhancement of its facilities devoted to improve health, education, environment, entrepreneurship, safety, recreation, and moral of the citizenry and other social welfare services via information communication technology.
Fighting Poverty
Wealthy is a word, which means rich, prosperous, affluent. It is an adjective which describes a man possessing huge amount of economic resources. He has everything of economic value measurable in price. He lives in abundance.
A wealthy person lives in durable house, provided with cars, has enough food, can afford to buy expensive clothes, has money to buy medicine and pay hospital bills. He can entertain guests in expensive restaurant or at home, can send his children to top rated schools like sti College and moves freely or travel to other places of interest.
Poverty, on the other hand, is the opposite of wealthy. Poverty means poor, indigent. It implies lack of resources for reasonable and comfortable living. A poor person lacks food and shelter. He/she is deficient of necessary and desirable properties.
How many percent of the Filipinos are poor? How many percent are wealthy? Where do we belong on the basis of the definitions of the terms poverty and wealthy?
There are people who were born with the "silver spoon on their mouths", the children of wealthy parents. But later, because they failed to manage their abundant resources, they are reduced to poor though most wealthy families are ably maintaining their wealth.
On the other hand, there are those who were born poor and are liberated from the bondage of poverty. There are those who are remaining poor and there are those who fought and conquered poverty. The poor people may just remain poor as they have no space to go below. For those who are determined, industrious and patient, there are more space for them to go up and stay wealthy.
Psychologists would advice, "you are what you think you are." This means your thought of what you are will come true. A person who thinks he can rise to the level of the wealthy can be wealthy if he did something to raise his level to the wealthy.
Wealth is not won by depending upon others. Poverty is defeated by any person who persistently educate himself and be literate. He exercises his muscles and uses his brain to perform his job, save something out of his job for the future. Dear graduates, you are now equipped with weapons to conquer poverty. Use those weapons like the information communication technology.
Politicians and public officials cannot liberate a poor man from poverty. They can only show the way and the direction to solve poverty. Poverty is conquered by the man himself.
The Philippines is a very rich country but more of her people are poor because they have chosen to remain poor. The Philippine oceans are abundant of fish and other marine products. There are mountains, plateau, valleys and lowland so fertile to grow crops of livestock and plants.
However, Filipinos have not realized sufficient products from it to defeat poverty.
Filipino farmers produce less than their counterparts in other countries due to inadequate support provided them. They have failed to put in place public officials sympathetic to agriculture sector where majority are poor. Fertilizers intended to raise production were applied to produce more votes during elections. Water in the rivers continuously flow to the ocean rather than diverted to produce electricity and irrigate rice paddies and other crops to reduce cost of production while increasing yield per unit area. Deplorable farm to market roads and the antiquated post harvest facilities reduce both product quality and farm profits.
Trees for mountain cover are illegally cut to earn instant cash while it hasten soil erosion and floods which destroy both lives and properties. These make Filipinos’ fight to knockout poverty very hard.
In the Philippines, when one borrowed money from the bank the interest rate is as high as 36 percent per year which interest are even subtracted immediately from the loan proceeds. The bank’s money maybe doubled in two years. On the other hand, when one deposited money in the bank, the interest paid ranges from one (1) to 10 percent only per year depending upon the kind of deposit. Whatever interest earned is subjected to 20 percent withholding tax. On top of it, once the deposit is below the maintaining balance, a depositor is compelled to pay monthly service charge. This Philippine banking system practice makes some people who have surplus money to shy away from the banks and keep their small savings in the aparadors. This is anti poor which can be avoided if the people are literate, well informed and have enough data to base their decisions in daily living. Poverty thrives best and rapid where ignorance pervades.
To liberate oneself of poverty, he must fight it. He must be educated and industrious, persistent and thrifty. Poverty is highly enhanced by government corruption. This may 14 election, I challenge you to elect the most honest servant leaders who are competent, committed and with conscience. Leaders who can empathize with the poor.
In conclusion, please accept my sincere congratulations for you all for jobs well done.
Good afternoon./MP

Letter To the Editor

Mr. Ulysses Espartero
C/o Madyaas Pen Publishing Co.
2/F Rebman Bldg.
168 Dr. Gonzales St., Kalibo, Aklan

Dear Mr. Espartero,

Your article "Search for Outstanding Aklanons," April 15 – 21, 2007 issue of Madyaas Pen enumerated the 2005 and 2006 achievers. Among the awardees of the 50th Aklan Anniversary celebration (2006) was RTC Judge Tomas Retorico Romaquin (Law) whom you excluded in your list. The article titled "Provincial Gov’t Honors Outstanding Aklanons, employees" and the photo by Joe Haresh Tanodra, March – April 2006 issue of "Viva Aklan Journal" p. 15 shows Judge Tomas Retorico Romaquin on the stage seated with other awardees at the left of NVC chairman Carmen Salas Quimpo.
Kindly explain why? As one of the avid readers of the Madyaas Pen, may the public know in the next issue of the newspaper of its omission in fairness to him as one of the fourteen (14) awardees of the 50th Aklan Anniversary Celebration.
I anticipate your response on the matter, urgently.

Thank you.

Sincerely yours,
(Sgd.) Cresencio Taay Javier

(RTC Judge Tomas Retorico Romaquin is an Outstanding Aklanon – law awarded him in 2006. The editor regrets his being omitted among those awardees mentioned in the April 15 – 21, 2007 issue of Madyaas Pen. Our apology for the oversight. Editor)

CBIS 98.5 Hot FM Celebrates 2nd Anniversary

Picture (l to r) shows Vice Mayor Nilda Tambong, Hon. Ariel O. Fernandez and Randy Anthony A. Rebaldo who pose for the souvenir picture after the ribbon cutting ceremony.
Picture below shows (l to r) Randy Rebaldo, Hon. Ariel O. Fernandez and Vice Mayor Nilda Tambong cutting the ribbon during the opening of exhibit. (Photos by Ambrosio F. Villorente, Jr.) /MP

The municipal government of Kalibo celebrated the 2nd Anniversary of The Community Broadcast Information System (CBIS) Ati-Atihan 98.5 Hot FM, "One Town,One Tribe, One Station.
The one-day celebration held on May 2 consisted of Thanksgiving Mass at St. John The Baptist Cathedral, Info Ride within the barangays of Kalibo, Opening of Ka-Tribu "Moments" Exhibit at Municipal Lobby, the Jamming with Ka-Tribu DJ’s in front of CBIS Station and Fellowship Night in front of CBIS station, Veterans Ave., Poblacion, Kalibo.

Vicky-Billie: On The Road To Victory?

The United Opposition Grand Rally at the Lezo covered gym in the evening, April 26 was just the first salvo. The campaign trail of Aklan Gubernatorial candidate Vicky Ramos and Vice-Gubernatorial candidate Billie Calizo has long been on the right track and that grand rally just further proved their claim to victory, they said.
An estimated crowd of 2,300 enthusiastically greeted the candidates. The covered gym shook in pandemonium when Vicky Ramos and Billie Calizo arrived.
"Nakakataba ng puso!", Vicky exclaimed. The overwhelming cheers of the people truly warmed the hearts of the candidates. Aside from Vicky and Billie, the people welcomed SP candidates Andoy Gelito and Roger Calizo, and Lezo municipal candidates led by candidate Alejandro Arcenio and vice mayor Phillip John Bueñaflor.
Fireworks erupted when it was the turn of Vicky Ramos to give her speech. The Lezo people literally and dramatically declared their vow of support with a bang. Aside from the fireworks, the speeches of Vicky Ramos and Billie Calizo were interrupted several times by the loud applause of the crowd. Evidently, they approve the platform of government presented by the Vicky-Billie team. /MP

BARRIA Establishes Aklan VISA Host Center

By Ulysses Espartero

The Boracay Association of Resorts, Restaurants and Independent Allies (BARRIA) Consortium launched recently the Aklan VISA Host Center in Barangay Nagustan, Nabas, Aklan.
The inauguration was graced by DOT Regional Director Edwin Trompeta and his wife, DILG Regional Director Evelyn Trompeta.
Also present were Paul Lim So, president of Action Holidays Tour Corporation, Provincial Administrator Diego M. Luces who represented Gov. Carlito S. Marquez, Nabas Mayor Romeo Dalisay, Caticlan Jetty Port Administrator Niven Maquirang and Women in Nabas Federation President Rhuna Flores-Tipgos.
According to BARRIA Consultant and Tourism Expert Max Zurbito, Jr., VISA Host stands for Visitors and Assistance (VISA) Home of Organized and Systematic Travel (HOST).
"This is a response to the growing clamor of the tourists and the traveling public for a professionally managed and delivered tourism services in Boracay Island and beyond.
The first of its kind in the country, the Aklan VISA Host Center shall serve as a one-stop shop where tourists’ and travelers’ needs shall be available 24 hours a day.
It shall serve as the center for the unified information on the tourism and travel service components within the domestic as well as international destinations.
It is also envisioned to be the central booking office for resorts, hotels, sea, air and land transports, tours, sightseeing and excursions.
"With this scheme, the tourists shall no longer experience the hustle in haggling for a price and paying as many times as they require the same services," Zurbito added.

Fast Crafts Now Serving Caticlan-Boracay
In another development, there are now two fast ferry sea crafts operating between the jetty ports of Caticlan and Cagban to ferry passengers, particularly tourists and visitors, to and from the island of Boracay. Caticlan Jetty Port Administrator Niven Maquirang announced.
The Ampo Shipping and ROVI Shipping Line both manifest their interests for the one entry-one exit scheme now being implemented in Caticlan–Boracay by Task Force Bantay Boracay headed by P/Supt. Benigno Durana,Jr.
Vessels MV Aikho of Ampo Shipping and MV Phoenix of Rovi Shipping are now plying the Caticlan-Cagban routes following the port-to-port embarkation of Maritime Industry Authority after maiden voyages of the said vessels were recently made.
According to tourism Expert Max P. Zurbito, Jr., Ampo Shipping now acts as operator of the sea transport component of the Unified Mass Transport System (UMTS) as proposed by the Boracay Association of Resorts, Restaurants and Independent Allies, Inc. (BARRIA).
BARRIA, under the leadership of its Chairman Nemesio Dalisay, wanted to establish a more systematic, orderly, and comfortable UMTS in areas declared as major and prime tourists assets and resources of Aklan found in the corridors of western coastline including the island and islets around Boracay.
This, Zurbito added, after BARRIA Consortium launched the Aklan VISA Host Service Voucher, an all-in-one pass to Boracay and beyond. The service voucher includes various service components of UMTS particularly land transfers in the mainland and ferry boat services between the mainland and Boracay Island.
The voucher is now available at BARRIA member establishments and at the Aklan VISA Host Center in Barangay Nagustan, Nabas, Aklan.
Aklan Visa Host Center Finance Director Rhuna Flores-Tipgos welcomed more entities to deliver safer transport services as envisioned by the united leadership of Cong. Florencio "Joeben" T. Miraflores, Gov. Carlito S. Marquez and Vice Gov. Ronquillo "Kel" C. Tolentino.
The Sangguniang Bayan of Malay under the leadership of Vice Mayor Frolibar Bautista has enacted measures to promote Boracay as an investment paradise. /MP

ERC Unveils New Regulatory Framework for ECs

The Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) unveiled its proposed regulatory framework for rural electric cooperatives (ECs) as it invites the public to comment on the proposed "Classification and Benchmarking Analysis of Philippine Electric Cooperatives" and the "Proposed Methodology for Efficiency Benchmarking of Philippine Electric Cooperatives".
"In line with the objectives of the EPIRA (Electric Power Industry Reform Act), the ERC initiated the development of a new regulatory framework of the ECs that is more responsive to the ECs’ needs. The proposed regulatory framework also encourages reforms in the ECs’ structure and operations for greater efficiency and lower costs," ERC Chairman and CEO Rodolfo B. Albano, Jr. said.
The Classification of ECs is based on principles of: (a) Rationality, which demonstrates the improvement in operational efficiency brought by capital and operational expenditure; (b) Regulatory efficiency, which involves stream-lined methods indicating regulatory compliance; and (c) Simplicity, which seeks to make the utilities’ operations customer-friendly.
The Benchmarking method, on the other hand, is the process of comparing actual performance with an identified standard. As far as standards are concerned, they may be set based on average (mean or median) performance or "best-in-class" performance. The benchmarking is envisioned to assist the ERC in setting expenditure ceilings or targets for the non-power costs of ECs, which will put them squarely on the road to enhance efficiency.
The proposed EC regulatory framework will undergo public hearings on May 3 (for Luzon) and May 4, 2007 (for Visayas and Mindanao). The deadline for the submission of comments is on May 11, 2007 (Friday). "The proposed methodology introduces incentives to allow efficiency gains to be shared between the EC and end-users, while easing the regulatory burden and cutting down the regulatory lag," Chairman Albano added. /MP

Rice Farmers Expect Better Harvest With WOMB Training

BUTUAN CITY, Caraga Region, rice farmers expect better harvests after attending the Training on Rice Farming Technology held recently in Barangay Maguinda, Butuan City, home to one of the 11 Farmers’ Information and Technology Services (FITS) centers in the region.
The training featured WOMB technologies, Integrated Pest Manage- ment (IPM), and Crop Establishment and Management presented by resource persons from Philippine Rice Research Institute Remedios T. Romualdez (PhiliRice RTR), Mr. Frenciso L. Varquez, Mr. Eliseo H. Batay-an, and Mr. Tijani B. Auxtero respectively.
Aside from their potential to improve productivity, these technologies are also considered environment friendly.
WOMB involves waste management, organic farming, microbial, and farm biomass tech-nologies. By converting organic wastes into organic fertilizers, farmers adopting WOMB help in the local waste management efforts.
IPM, on the other hand, is a holistic approach to pest management that combines existing pest control methods (biological controls, cultural practices, physical techniques pest-resistant varieties) that are most economical and least harmful to humans and the environment. The use of pesticides in IPM is an option of last resort.
With these tech-nologies,Caraga far-mers look forward to better and sustainable rice production.
The Caraga Con-sortium for Agriculture Forestry Resources Research and De-velopment facilitated the training in cooperation with PhiliRice RTR and the local government of Butuan City.
The training, attended by about 30 farmers, is an offshoot of the technology needs assessment conducted by the PCARRD in the region last year. (Mylene J. Samonte, DENR-13) /MP

Sugilanon Ni Tita Linda

Tita Linda Belayro

Sa Bukid It Olimpus

Ro bukid it Olimpus hay gina estaran it mga Dios ag Diosa sunô sa pagpati ko mga Griyego. Kapares it mga mortal, sanda ra hay may mga baeatyagon man ag naga entra sa pagpangabuhi it mga tawo. Kada isaea kanda hay may mga paboritong mortal. Ro iba kanda hay may mga onga sa mortal. Tongod kara, ro andang onga hay may mga kina-adman ag kina iya nga ha iridar sa ginikanan nga Dios o Diosa.
Isaea sa mga Diosa nga si Reyna Juno hay may paboritong mortal nga ro ngaean hay si Pheleas. Imaw ra hay pakî, indi maka tikang, halin pa sa pagkatawo, ogaling gwapo ag mabukod it pangeawason. Kada agahon, nagabisita kana si Reyna Juno nga may daeang kagamitan sa pagtikang, mga prutas ag gatas it baka. Ko olihi, tongod sa pagbulig ni Reyna Juno, nakatikang si Pheleas.
Umpisa nga nakatikang si Pheleas, pirme eon imaw nga naga pamasyar. Sa anang pag warang, may nakilaea imaw nga daeaga nga si Dinah. Sa owa magbuhay, nagkahagugma ro daywa. Pagkasayod ni Reyna Juno, naakig imaw it duro. Bu-ot nana nga pabueagon ro daywa. Guin butangan nana it mapintas nga dragon. Sa andang pag away, napierde ni Pheleas ro dragon.
Bangud ka ron, guin butang ro babaye sa mata-as nga bukid ogaling guin saka man guihapon ni Pheleas ag nabo-oe ro daeaga. Ko olihi, guinsakay ro daeaga sa baroto ag tongod sa pag huyop it mabaskog nga hangin, inapok sa isaeang ka isla ro daeaga. Guin eangoy ni Pheleas rong isla hasta nakaabot imaw. Idto eon lang sanda nagtener.
Owa eon it mahimo ro Reyna. Guin pundo nana ro pagbungkag ko andang paghigugma. Napamatud-an ni Pheleas nga ha-um nana nga itaya ro anang kabuhi sa ngaean it paghigugma. Duro ro kahikaw ni Reyna Juno kay Dinah. Ona eon kana ro tanan, manggad, poder ag hitsura ogaling kueang imaw it minatuod nga naga higugma bangod ro anang asawang si Haring Jupiter hay abô pa nga mga onga sa mga mortal.
"Ro tunay nga paghigugma hay indi matupungan it manggad." /MP

COURT ORDER PUBLICATIONS

Republic of the Philippines
REGIONAL TRIAL COURT
6th Judicial Region
Branch 9
Kalibo, Aklan

IN RE: PETITION FOR CORRECTION OF ENTRIES IN THE CERTIFICATE OF LIVE BIRTH OF HENRY Z. CUSTUDIO AS REGARDS HIS DATE OF BIRTH FROM DECEMBER 7, 1963 TO NOVEMBER 15, 1963 AND THE SPELLING OF THE FIRST NAME OF HIS FATHER FROM WENEFREDO TO WENIFREDO,
HENRY Z. CUSTUDIO,
Petitioner,
-versus- SPL. PROC. NO. 8015
THE MUNICIPAL CIVIL REGISTRAR OF MAKATO, AKLAN AND THE CIVIL REGISTRAR GENERAL, NATIONAL STATISTICS OFFICE, MANILA
Respondents.
x- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - x

O R D E R

A verified petition dated July 12, 2006, has been filed in this Court by the petitioner through counsel praying that after due notice and hearing an Order be issued directing the Municipal Civil Registrar of Makato, Aklan, to correct the entries relative to the date of birth in the Certificate of Live Birth of the petitioner from December 7, 1963 to November 15, 1963; to correct the spelling of the first name of his father from WENEFREDO TO WENIFREDO, and to annotate the proper corrections in the birth records of the petitioner.
It appearing that the petition is sufficient in form and substance, notice is hereby given that the aforesaid petition will be heard by this Court on May 22, 2007 at 10:30 o’clock in the morning at which time all interested persons may appear and show cause why the petition should not be granted.
Let this Order be published at the expense of the petitioner, once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks in Madyaas Pen, a newspaper of general circulation in the Municipality of Kalibo, and Province of Aklan and copies of the same together with the petition be served upon the Solicitor general, 134 Amorsolo Street, Legaspi Village, Makati City, the Provincial Prosecutor of Aklan, the Municipal Civil Registrar of Makato, Aklan, counsel for the petitioner and the petitioner at Cabugao, Altavas, Aklan.

SO ORDERED.
Kalibo, Aklan, March 13, 2007.

(Sgd.) DEAN R. TELAN
Presiding Judge
Madyaas Pen: April 21, 28 & May 5, 2006

o0o

Republic of the Philippines
REGIONAL TRIAL COURT
6TH JUDICIAL REGION
Branch 9
Kalibo, Aklan

IN RE: PETITION FOR CORRECTION OF FIRST NAME FROM WENIE TO WENNIE; DATE OF BIRTH FROM FEBRUARY 25, 1961 TO JANUARY 25, 1961; FATHER’S MIDDLE INITIAL FROM "C" TO "R" AND MOTHER’S FIRST NAME FROM FLOREDA TO FLORIDA,
WENIE MAGNO VILLANUEVA, (a.k.a)
WENNIE MAGNO VILLANUEVA – FERNANDEZ
Petitioner,
SPL. PROC. NO. 8020
- versus -
THE MUNICIPAL CIVIL REGISTRAR
OF KALIBO, AKLAN
Respondent.
x- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - x

O R D E R

A verified petition dated February 26, 2007, has been filed in this Court by the petitioner through counsel praying that after due notice and hearing an Order be issued directing the Municipal Civil Registrar of Kalibo, Aklan, to correct the entries relative to the date of birth in the Certificate of Live Birth of the petitioner from February 25, 1961 to January 25, 1961, and to correct the spelling of the first name from WENIE to WENNIE, the father’s middle initial from "C" to "R", and the mother‘s first name from FLOREDA to FLORIDA, and to annotate the proper corrections in the birth records of the petitioner.
It appearing that the petition is sufficient in form and substance, notice is hereby given that the aforesaid petition will be heard by this Court on July 17, 2007 at 8:30 o’clock in the morning at which time all interested persons may appear and show cause why the petition should not be granted.
Let this Order be published at the expense of the petitioner, once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks in Madyaas Pen, a newspaper of general circulation in the Municipality of Kalibo, and Province of Aklan and copies of the same together with the petition be served upon the Solicitor General, 134 Amorsolo Street, Legaspi Village, Makati City, the Provincial Prosecutor of Aklan, the Municipal Civil Registrar of Kalibo, Aklan, counsel for the petitioner and the petitioner at Brgy. Mabilo, Aklan.
SO ORDERED.
Kalibo, Aklan, March 13, 2007.

(Sgd.) DEAN R. TELAN
Presiding Judge

Madyaas Pen: April 21, 28 & May 5, 2007

o0o

Republic of the Philippines
Regional Trial Court
Sixth Judicial Region
BRANCH 4
Kalibo, Aklan

RE: PETITION FOR CORRECTION OF ENTRY IN THE RECORD OF BIRTH OF CAROL T. QUIMPO, HER GENDER FROM MALE TO FEMALE, WITH THE OFFICE OF THE MUNICIPAL CIVIL REGISTRAR OF KALIBO, AKLAN
CAROL T. QUIMPO,
Petitioner,
-versus- SPL. PROC. NO. 8041
THE MUNICIPAL CIVIL REGISTRAR OF
KALIBO, AKLAN,
Respondent.
x- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - x

O R D E R

A verified petition dated March 21, 2007 was filed by the petitioner, through counsel, praying that after due notice, publication and hearing, an order be issued directing the correction/change of petitioner’s gender from "Male" to "Female" in her birth record, and to direct the Municipal Civil Registrar of Kalibo, Aklan to annotate the proper correction in the Certificate of Live Birth of the petitioner.
It appearing that the petition is sufficient in form and substance, the Court hereby sets the initial hearing of the aforesaid petition on JUNE 5, 2007 at 10:00 o’clock in the morning, and directs that a copy of this Order be published immediately at the expense of the petitioner in the Madyaas Pen, a newspaper published, edited and with general circulation in the Province of Aklan once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks.
All persons having or claiming any interest under the entry of which correction is sought, may file their opposition thereto within fifteen (15) days to be reckoned upon receipt of the same or from the last date of publication as the case may be.
Let copies of this Order together with copies of the petition be served upon the Solicitor General, the Provincial Prosecutor of Aklan, the respondent Municipal Civil Registrar of Kalibo, Aklan, the petitioner and her counsel.
SO ORDERED.
Kalibo, Aklan, Philippines,
April 17, 2007.

(Sgd.) NARCISO M. AGUILAR
Judge
Madyaas Pen: May 5, 12 & 19, 2007

o0o

Republic of the Philippines
Regional Trial Court, 6th Judicial Region
Branch 7, Kalibo, Aklan

IN RE: PETITION FOR CORRECTION OF THE ENTRIES IN THE CERTIFICATE OF LIVE BIRTH OF CRIS ALIVIADO CAHILIG FROM MALE TO FEMALE, WITH THE LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRAR OF MALAY, AKLAN
RODULFO COCHING CAHILIG,
Petitioner,
-versus- SPL. PROC. NO. 8048
THE LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRAR OF MALAY, AKLAN,
Respondent.
x- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - x

O R D E R

A verified petition dated March 26, 2007 has been filed in this court by petitioner through counsel, praying that after due notice, publication and hearing, the Local Civil Registrar of Malay, Aklan be ordered correct of change the gender of Cris Aliviado Cahilig from "Male" to "Female" as appearing in the Certificate of Live Birth on file with the Office of the Local Civil Registrar of Malay, Aklan as well as in the Office of the Administrator and the Civil Registrar General, National Statistics Office (NSO), Manila. Petitioner further prays for such other relief and remedies just and equitable under the premises.
It appearing that the petition is sufficient in form and substance, notice is hereby given that the aforesaid petition will be heard by this court on JUNE 25, 2007 at 9:30 A.M. at the Session Hall of Branch 7 of this court. The civil registrar and any persons having or claiming any interest under the entry whose correction is sought may, within fifteen (15) days from notice of the petition, or from the last date of publication of such notice, file his opposition thereto.
Let this Order be published at the expense of the petitioner once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks in Madyaas Pen, a newspaper of general circulation in the province of Aklan and copies of the same together with the petition be served upon the Solicitor General, 134 Amorsolo Street, Legaspi Village, Makati, the Provincial Prosecutor of Aklan, the Local Civil Registrar of Malay, Aklan and copies of the Order to counsel for the petitioner and the petitioner.
SO ORDERED.
Kalibo, Aklan,
April 17, 2007

(Sgd.) VIRGILIO LUNA PAMAN
Presiding Judge
Madyaas Pen: May 5, 12, & 19, 2007

Legal Notice

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late Montalid Patnubay, Sr. who died intestate which consist of six (6) parcels of land plus improvements located in Janiuay – one parcel; Pototan – three parcels; and Duenas – two parcels all in the province of Iloilo are the subjects of "Extra Judicial Settlement of Estate" and "Deed of Partition" by his surviving heirs. The deeds were executed before Notary Public Romeo H. Mediodia, Iloilo City on April 25, 2005 as per Doc. No. 464; Page No. 93; Book No. IV; Series of 2005 and Notary Public Danny N. Valenzuela, Iloilo City on April 27, 2007 as per Doc. No. 146; Page No. 30; Book No. VIII; Series of 2007 respectively.
Madyaas Pen: May 5, 12 & 19, 2007

o0o

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late Agripina Rondario who died intestate which consist of a parcel of land situated in Brgy. Dingle, Banga, Aklan is the subject of a "Deed of Adjudication With Sale" by her surviving heirs/children. The deed was executed before Notary Public Diomedes T. Resurreccion, Banga, Aklan on July 7, 2006 as per Doc. No. 457; Page No. 13; Book No. 85; Series of 2006.
Madyaas Pen: May 5, 12, & 19, 2007

Libacao Beef

Picture above shows exhibit booth of LGU Libacao with beef as its principal exhibit for sale during the 51st Aklan Day celebration on April 23 - 27, 2007. Abaca and its by products were also Libacao’s best attractions during the trade fair.

Goat and Sheep In Science Expo

More than just the milk and meat, science has found its way to the small ruminants industry. This was the resounding realization among the guests, participants, and enthusiasts at the 2nd Cagayan Valley Goat & Sheep Expo ’07 hosted by Isabela State University (ISU) Echague, Isabela recently.
The expo kicked off with a techno forum lecture on Goat Raising Success Stories. Retired General Alexander M. Bellen, also a /Magsasaka Siyentista /(MS) of the Farmer’s Information Technology Services in Gamu, Isabela and chairperson of the National Small Ruminants Board warmly shared his experiences on goat and sheep raising.
Dr. Gumersindo D. Lasam, Regional Executive Director of the Department of Agriculture-Regional Field Unit 2 (DA-RFU 2), and ISU President, Dr. Romeo Quilang, also chairman of the expo served as resource persons together with Gen. Bellen and other DA officers at the press conference that followed. Local media and the National Broadcasting Network (NBN-PTV4) covered the three-day expo.
The highlight of the expo focused on the goat and sheep competition, which aimed at two important things - to develop science-based conformation show; and to showcase the good genetics of goats and sheep from Region II.
"We want this conformation show to be the start or benchmark in the next conformation shows to be organized in other regions," said Dr. Synan S. Baguio, senior science research specialist at PCARRD.
"All the traits, characteristics being evaluated in the conformation show centered on the effects of the productive and reproductive qualities of the different breeds of goat and sheep that are available in the country," observed Dr. Edwin C. Villar, Director for Livestock Research of PCARRD. "We aimed to show that there is a pool of good genetics among the goats and sheep raised in the Philippines," he added.
The expo also aimed to bring awareness on the potentials of the small ruminants industry, and encourage the farmers and various businessmen to take part in the growing industry.
"We intend to make this expo an annual event, we want to boost this growing interest in the small ruminants, and encourage all the stakeholders from the academe, the private sector, government units and develop support from them," said Lasam.
With Echague’s top quality small ruminants, Echague Mayor Leoncio O. Kiat sees the One-Town-One-Product (OTOP) program of Department of Trade and Industry being fulfilled in Echague. He expressed hope in the future that "every house or family in Isabela would be venturing into the industry of sheep and goat."
With PCARRD’s commitment of support, science and technology will be there to help realize that vision.
"There was a tremendous improvement on how this 2nd Cagayan expo was conducted. More importantly we integrated science in the field of raising goat and sheep. More than the costumes put on by the animals, the good genetic traits developed through good breeding techniques, would encourage the raisers and the future raisers to improve more on the scientific aspects of raising goats," Edwin Villar stressed.
Professionalizing the animal show, giving scientific background on raising goats would serve as the benchmark in the industry of livestock," added Villar as he formally closed the Expo.
Adding color to the event were the kiddie rodeo and sheep herding contests, wherein kids, while having a great time, showed their potentials in sheep herding. The expo also featured an auction for goats and sheep brought in by participants and guests.
With the multi-sectoral participation demonstrated in the Expo, a bright future for the small ruminants industry in the country certainly awaits.
Korean Scientists Share Expertise
Two Korean experts participating in the Exchange Scientists Mission Program between PCARRD and Korea’s Rural Development Administration (RDA) arrived in the Philippines last month to share their experiences with local experts.
Dr Jae Gwan Choi, expert in the field of animal breeding graced the 3rd National Goat and Sheep Conference held recently in Cagayan de Oro City. As conference resource person, Dr. Choi presented the status, market trends, opportunities and directions of the goat industry in Korea. In his observation, there are also big opportunities for the Philippines’ goat industry.
To complete his mission in the Philippines, Dr. Choi conducted a seminar at PCARRD on Korea’s goat production.
Meanwhile, Dr. Ho Young Chung, animal biotechnology specialist visited Muñoz, Nueva Ecija as one of the guest speakers at the founding anniversary of the Philippine Carabao Center (PCC).
Dr. Chung presented his paper on the "Potentials of Transgenics and Bio-informatics in Livestock Industry" at the "Symposium on Livestock Biotechnology," which is one of the highlights of PCC’s anniversary.
Drs. Choi and Chung are both research scientists at the National Livestock Research Institute-RDA. The Exchange Scientists Mission Program is part of the RDA-PCARRD collaboration for 2007. (With the report of Jocelyn Amarante, & Evelyn Q. Carpio,) /MP