Steady Vegetable & Agri-aqua Supply

By Venus G. Villanueva

A report from the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist (OPA), Kalibo, Aklan revealed that several kinds of vegetables sold in the market had reduced in prices, while a steady supply of other agriculture and aquaculture products remains readily available in the markets this February.

Municipal markets in Aklan monitored by OPA for the report included Kalibo, Malinao, Lezo, Numancia and Makato.

The report showed that vegetables which are not locally-produced in Aklan reduced in prices, like the Baguio beans, which last month cost P50-60 a kilo, but could be bought now at P35-50 a kilo. Cabbage, a month ago cost P60-70 a kilo, now it is at P35-40. Carrots cost P70-80 per kilo last month, now it sells at P60-70 per kilo. Sweet pepper cost P90-200 per kilo last month, now it is at P80-125 a kilo.

Supply and prices of rice in the markets also remain steady, according to the report. Farm gate price of palay is now at P8.60 – P11.50, NFA rice is now sold at P18.25 a kilo while commercial rice prices range from P22-29 per kilo.

Currently, the province of Aklan is implementing various agricultural programs such as the hybrid rice program, the high-value commercial crops program, the Integrated Pest Management (IPM) or Kasalikasan Program, the Palama-yanan, and the National Farming System Program. This move of the provincial government under Governor Carlito Marquez is to make Aklan self-sufficient in agricultural commodities, and to supply the needs of Boracay Island as well as that of other neighboring provinces.

According to Gov. Marquez, Aklan remains a rice supplier with a 63,459.19 metric tons consumption against a 146,691 metric ton production.

“We produce more than what we eat,” Marquez stressed in his recent State of the Province Address.

The support and assistance of Aklan State University (ASU) in Banga, Aklan; the Philippine Rice Research Institute; the Agricultural Training Institute; the Department of Agriculture in the regional and national levels; and Aklan’s agriculture personnel are acknowledged by Gov. Marquez in Aklan’s agricultural development efforts.

He cited the Palamayanan Program as one example of government assistance to poor, marginal farmers, especially those in the uplands, which was implemented through the help of ASU and Philrice.

Aklan PESO Continues To Source Local,
Overseas Jobs For Aklanons

The Provincial Employment Service Office (PESO), Kalibo, Aklan continues to generate local and overseas jobs for Aklanons.

Records from the PESO, Kalibo, Aklan, headed by Manager Vivian Solano, revealed that in 2007, a total of 166 Aklanons were deployed to various countries like Hongkong, Malaysia, Singapore, Dubai, Cyprus, Kuwait, Taiwan Caribbean and middle east countries, remitting substantial amount of dollars which has helped improve their economic and financial status.

For local employment, PESO has facilitated the hiring of 1,072 Aklanons by local business establishments in Aklan and other parts of the country as resort and restaurant personnel, construction workers and office personnel.

Also, through PESO’s assistance, 400 Aklanon students were employed by the province under the Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES) otherwise known as Summer Job of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). SPES helps the students earn some amount of money for their expenses during the opening of classes and to teach them the dignity of labor by working for 30 days.

“They were paid P864,000 at P2,160 each as the 60 percent counterpart pay of the province. The DOLE paid the remaining 40 percent of the 200 students in the total amount of P530,136 at P2,664 each,” Solano said.

Meanwhile, with the feared economic recession affecting the United States of America which might have a spillover effect on the economy of the Philippines especially the dollar earnings of the OFWs, the government launched the hedging program of the Development Bank of the Philippines.

The hedging would protect the earnings of OFWs against fluctuations in foreign exchange rates, particularly by the strong peso. This hedging program for OFWs consists of the voluntary foreign exchange insurance fees that protect OFWs from a strengthened peso.

The DBP representatives are going around the Filipino communities and are giving more information about this facility through the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA). /MP

Numancia Municipal Religious Fiesta Is May 1 In Honor of St. Joseph The Worker

By ambrosio R. villorente

“Unity, Key To Progressive Numancia” is the theme of the forthcoming Numancia Municipal and Religious Fiesta on May 1, 2008. This theme is unanimously approved during the meeting of the Numancia Festivals Advisory Council (NFAC) held on February 12, 2008. NFAC was organized by LGU Numancia to prepare plans, programs, and activities for the celebration of important festivals like municipal and religious fiesta, thanksgiving for all God’s blessings to all Numanciahanons and in honor of its Patron Saint Joseph, The Worker, christmas and valentine.

NFAC is chaired by Mayor Elverita T. Templonuevo as over-all chair and Dr. Reinalda I. Magdaluyo as chair. The vice chairs are Vice Mayor Evangeline Ibabao, Hon. Benjamin S. Magnabijon and Dr. Ambrosio R. Villorente. The members are the officers of LGU Numancia, members of Numancia Sang-guniang Bayan, and some private citizens of Numancia.

As approved, the important highlights of the celebration are the church activities such as Holy Masses, Baptism and Novena. There will be SK Night on April 24, Agro-Industrial Trade Fair starting April 28; Barangay Night on Monday, April 28 with “Ballroom Dancing Contest” as special attraction. Search for Miss Earth Numancia will be done on Tuesday evening, April 29. Grand Binayle/Balce de Numancia will be held on April 30, the eve (vespiras) of the festival in honor of Saint Joseph the Worker. There will be holy masses to be celebrated in the St. Joseph The Worker Parish Church on the day of the fiesta, Thursday, May 1.

Various committees are formed to plan and prepare programs for implementation of the respective activities in the celebration. /MP

Building Agriculture & Fishery By Planning/Implementation

By Eden DR. Bautista, PhD

Aklan Governor Carlito S. Marquez will deliver his keynote speech to stir into action the participants in a three-day planning workshop.

The Local Government Units, which are the focus of all national interventions, must be equipped with personnel capable of designing and pursuing projects that can help enhance barangay and municipal economies. To complement this noble task, the Provincial Agriculture & Fishery Council (PAFC) and Provincial Government of Aklan in coordination with the Agricultural Training Institute – Regional Training Center VI (ATI-RTC VI) and the 17 LGUs of Aklan will conduct a three-day, live–in Planning Workshop on Strengthening the Planning and Management Capabilities of Local Government Units (LGUs) Executives and Agriculture Fishery Councils (AFCs). This will be held at ATI-RTC VI Conference Hall, Banga, Aklan on February 26-28, 2008.

The course is aimed to strengthen the municipal officials’ capabilities in management of agriculture and rural development programs, projects and activities in the Province of Aklan. Specifically, the participants will be able to revisit the Municipal Agricultural Development Plan (MADP) vis-à-vis the Municipal Investment Plan; ensure that the development plans of the LGUs specifically the MADP is part of the Municipal Investment Development Plan and up to the provincial level. Also, the Workshop will review and identify existing/continuing agricultural projects needed to enhance the economy of each municipality; recommend expansion of highly deserving projects/programs for legitimization; identify relevant farm activity(ies), projects, programs that will merit project expansion and resolution to concerned funding or sponsoring agencies for fund augmentation; and update the MADP and recommend for enactment into local ordinance.

A total of 55 participants from the 17 Municipal Agricultural & Fishery Councils (MAFC), 17 Municipal Agriculturists (Mas), 17 Municipal Planning Development Coordinators (MPDCs), 17 Sangguniang Bayan (SB) for Agriculture, Provincial Planning and Development Office and Office of the Provincial Agriculturist will attend. The expected output is the Municipal Agricultural Development and Investment Plan which will serve as blue print in the next five years of each town and the Province of Aklan.

A pool of competent Resource Speakers are invited to discuss and share their learnings on current issues on agriculture and fishery. Mr. William Castillo, OIC, Office of the Provincial Agriculturist will discuss Management of Agricultural Extension at the Provincial Level. Ms. Mila Andrade of the Altavas LGU-OMA will talk on Agricultural Extension at the Municipal Level: A devolved Experience. Strategic Issues in agriculture and fishery: rural development concerns, policies and programs by Ret. Gen. Frederique Romero of Aklan Seed Growers Association and Dr. Ambrosio R. Villorente of Aklan PAFC.

Dr. Allan V. Alimodian of ATI-RTC VI will share the New Agricultural & Fishery Agenda based on the proposed Philippine Agriculture & Fishery Extension Agency (PAFEA). The LGUs are expected to share also their respective 10-Minute Accomplishment Report with focus on unique initiatives, challenges met, problems encountered and solutions made, and lessons learned. These will be highlighted with the Deployment of Personnel and Review of Present projects/ Programs/Activity implemented. /MP

WARNING TO MANNY PACQUIAO

3 Negros Boxers

Among Marquez’s KO Victims

A stern warning to Manny Pacquiao. Just be cautious with Marquez.

Juan Manuel “Dinamita” Marquez had spent a combined total of 14 rounds in dismantling three highly-rated Filipino fighters since 2000.

First to fall was junior featherweight terror Reynante Jamili who was blasted to smithereens in three rounds on Oct. 22, 2000 at the Peppermill Hotel & Casino, Reno, Nevada, United States.

On April 1, 2001, it was the turn of Baby Lorona Jr. to wipe the canvas of the same venue with his face, absorbing a brutal second round knockout from the Mexican hombre destined to become a superfeatherweight ruler of the world.

The third casualty was Jimrex Jaca who capitulated in nine rounds in the WBO featherweight championship at the Dodge Arena, Hidalgo, Texas on November 25, 2006.

Incidentally, both Jamili, Lorona, and Jaca come from Negros Oriental and are Ilonggo-speaking.

The 34-year-old Marquez will attempt to add the 29-year-old Pacquiao in his list of Filipino victims when they square off on March 16 for Marquez’s WBC superfeather-weight crown at the Mandalay Bay and Resort Casino Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada.

In terms of ring experience, age and height, Marquez has the edge. In his first professional fight on May 29, 1993, Marquez lost by disqualification to countryman Javier Duran in Distrito Federal, Mexico.

So far, he has racked up 48 wins (35 KOs) against 3 losses.

Pacquiao, on the other hand, began his illustrious fistic career on Jan. 22, 1995 with a four-round points win over Edmund Ignacio in Calapan City, Mindoro Oriental. He tots a record of 45 wins (35 KOs) with 3 losses.

Pacquiao has massacred a total of 8 Mexican ring superstars starting with Gabriel Mira who was halted in four rounds on April 24, 1999 at the Araneta Coliseum, Quezon City, in Pacquiao’s first defense of the WBC flyweight crown he wrested from Chachai Sasakul (KO8) on December 8, 1998.

Among those who fell from Pacquiao’s murderous binge were Emmanuel Lucero (KO3), Marco Antonio Barrera twice (KO11 and points), Hector Velasquez (KO6), Erik Morales twice (TKO10 and KO3), Oscar Larios (UD12), and Jorge Solis (KO8).

‘IT’S UNETHICAL TO CRITICIZE IN PUBLIC

A veteran international boxing referee who witnessed at the ringside the chaotic Z Gorres-Vic Darchinyan brawl at the Cebu Waterfront Hotel last Saturday evening, Feb. 2 could only shake his head over the negative outcome of the “Now or Never” main event. But said, he would not join the mob that called for the blood of New Zealand referee Lance Revill.

The referee, who requested strict anonymity for obvious reasons, agreed that Revill committed several “terrible” infractions during the 12-round battle for the right to face International Boxing Federation (IBF) superflyweight king Dmitri Kirilov.

“It’s unethical to criticize in public a fellow ring official, so I won’t dwell on Lance’s mistakes. Rather, may that fight serves as a lesson for everyone concerned,” said the towering referee who flew back to Luzon the morning after the fight.

He said, the fight was even in the first seven rounds “until Gorres started to decline in the 8th round.”

“That gave Darchinyan the confidence to force the issue and pile up points in the process,” he said. “I think Gorres was over trained.”

Asked about his opinion of the controversial knockdown Revill had called against Gorres in the first round which was severely lamented by experts, the referee, admitted that “it was not a knockdown, of course.”

He said some of the “slips” were supposed to be called as “knockdowns” while some of the “knockdowns” were supposed to be “slips.”

Both the camps of Gorres and Dar-chinyan protested the split draw verdict while co-promoter Gary Shaw had sought for the banning for life of Revill who was acting as third man on the ring for the first time outside the New Zealand.

While Revill was slandered and called names by irate fans and supporters of both boxers, Jonathan Davis, the Filipino judge who saw Darchinyan the winner at 114-112, earned praises from some quarters and fellow ring officials, including former Games and Amusement Board commissioner Emmanuel Palabrica.

Win Or Lose To Marquez, Pacquiao
To Fight Again June 28 In Macau

Even if Manny Pacquiao (45 W, 35 KOs, 3 losses) will suffer a knockout defeat, which is beyond imagination for those who root for him, in his March 16 12-round shootout with World Boxing Council (WBC) superfeatherweight champion Juan Manuel Marquez at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino Hotel in Las Vegas, he is still illegible to climb the ring for a possible world title shot at David Diaz’s WBC lightweight crown within the period of three months.

This became apparent after BoxRec.com reported that the Filipino fighter’s next assignment will be on June 28, 2008 in Macau, China against an unnamed opponent which, sources said, could be the 31-year-old Diaz, conqueror of Pacquiao’s trilogy partner Erik Morales.

Diaz (33 W, 17 KOs, 1 loss) will himself risk his WBC jewels on March 16 in the Marquez-Pacquiao aperitif versus Ramon Montano (14 W, 0 loss). Win or lose to Montano, Diaz could still fight after a period of three months—even if he will kiss the canvas.

Under the rules of the Games and Amusement Board (GAB) boxing division and probably the Nevada State Athletic Commission, a fighter who suffers a knockout (KO) cannot fight for the next 60 days or two months.

Promoters of the supposed Pacquiao-Diaz setto must have anticipated this possible “technical glitch” in the megabuck showdown in China’s gambling capital in advance, the reason why they chose June 28 as the date of the possible title clash.

Aside from Diaz, promoters of the 29-year-old General Santos City phenom is also eyeing the voracious but extremely dangerous Edwin Valero, the unbeaten Venezuelan who has been banned from fighting in the United States for his failure to secure necessary brain test. /MP

COMMENTS ON THE BLOG

Kabogman has left a new comment on your post “Entrepreneurial Farmer”:

We rejoiced upon hearing the news that the bandstand will finally be spared from demolition. We applaud your up to date and detailed reporting regarding this issue. I know that it is now time for all of us to move to the stage of healing and reconciliation regarding this controversy. For the sake of reporting accuracy, however, I would like to make a comment to clarify the content of your story, especially the use of the word “sensitivity”.

This word usually means reacting appropriately to the emotions or situation of other people, or being “tactful”. Based on your story, Mr. Maming only agreed to make an “amicable” settlement after a suit was made in court, which meant that his decision was made under duress and constraint, and not from his own volition because of a sincere realization of his mistake or from the newly found goodness in his heart.

I believe that the word was not the correct term to depict his action. Otherwise, he should not have waited for the court to intervene. His almost rabid reaction to those who opposed his position was not compatible with a sensitive person. In any case, I fully appreciate his willingness to concede to the wish of the Banganhons. I also believe that you were just trying to use appeasing and conciliatory words to describe the event and were not consciously or deliberately praising him excessively for a certain reason. (It is not necessary to indulge in semantic: It was enough that Mayor Antonio Maming has yielded to reasons.

Maaeaman has left a new comment on your post “Entrepreneurial Farmer”:

It was a Divine Intervention, indeed. Alleluia! I completely agree with Barok that Mr. Maming’s turnaround was not due to a sincere change in his heart but due to the grace of God. It is only Him who can transform a “worldly” man and be confused as someone who is “sensitive” to his constituent’s needs and desires.

My belief is that Mr. Maming was sent by God to test the integrity and fortitude of all the Banganhons. A few of us passed the test.

I hope this controversy will open everybody’s eyes and give a lesson to those who “lost their way”, as Mautakono fittingly described them. Repent! A second test is usually more difficult. Laugh Out Loud!

Anonymous has left a new comment on your post “Editorial”

If you want to expose ILLEGAL construction in Boracay, you should check Boracay West Cove in Diniwid Beach. The building was built on the shore, 5 stories high, NO BUILDING PERMIT of course and backup by politicians. /MP

Sugilanon Ni Tita Linda

Ni Tita Linda Belayro

Ro Uwak Ag Ro Maya

May isaeang ka maya nga nakipag amigo sa isaeang ka uwak. Samtang naga–usoy sanda it pagkaon, nakakita ro uwak it katumbae nga puea nga guina buead sa banig. Tongod kara, nagkasugot sanda nga magpa indis-indis kon sin-o ro abu it hika-ong katumbae.

Naghambae ro uwak, “Kon sin-o ro abo it maka-on katong daywa, imaw ro magadaug. Ro. mapierde, imaw hay paga kan-on.” Nagpasugot ro maya. Sige ro tinuka it maya, ogaling tuso ro uwak ay sa ap-at ka katumbae, sambilog ro anang kan-on. Ro tatlo, anang guina tago sa idaeum it banig. Nagdaug ro uwak ag bu-ot eon nga kan-on nana ro maya.

“Parabil mo ako kan-on, hugasan mo anay ro imong pantok. Sayod ko nga maskin nano nga basura hay guina kaon mo,” hambae it maya. Ngani, nag adto ro uwak sa suba ag nag hinyo.

“Suba, suba,

Pangayo ako it tubi,

Agod mahugasan ro akong pantok,

Agod makaon ko ro maya.”

Nagsabat ro suba, “Bu-ot mo ro tubi? Osoy anay it banga agud sudlan it tubi ag idto ka maghugas. Mahigko ka abi ay maskin patay guina kaon mo.” Nag adto ro maya sa manog koeon ag nag hinyo.

Manogkoeon, manogkoeon,

Obrahi ako it banga,

Para makasaeod it tubi,

Agod mahugasan rang tuka,

Para maglimpyo rang eawas,

Agud makaon ko ro maya.

Sabat it manogkoeon, “Bu-ot mo ro banga? Usoy anay it onga.” Nag usoy it buga ro uwak ag pagkakita nana, nagkutkot imaw paagi sa anang tuka. Ogaling naghambae ro buga.” Mahigko ka, gumamit ka it pala. Mag hueam ka sa panday.” Nag adto ro uwak sa panday.

Panday, panday,

Obrahi ako it pala,

Para maka kutkot it buga

Nga obra kong banga

Agod makasaeok it tubi

Nga panglimpyo sa akong tuka

Agod malimpyo ro akong eawas

Para makaon ko ro maya.

Naghambae ro panday, “Ogaling owa ako it kaeayo. Mangayo ka anay sa asawa it mangunguma.”

Asawa it mangunguma,

Taw-i ako it kaeayo,

Agod maka – ubra it pala,

Nga pangkutkot it buga

Agod obrahong koeon,

Nga sag-uban it tubi,

Nga panglimpyo sa akong tuka,

Agod malimpyo rang eawas,

Agod makaon ko ro maya.

Sabat ko asawa it mangunguma, “Ogaling paalin mo daehon ro kaeayo? pangutana ko babaye. Sabat ko uwak, “Ibutang mo sa akong likod.” Naghaling it kaeayo ro babaye ag guin butang nana ro gatong sa likod it uwak. Nasunog ro baeahibo it uwak ag owa imaw naka eopad hasta namatay. Owa nana hikaon ro maya. /MP

Medical Missions Nagbueong It 359 Pasyente

By Palmi L. Isturis

Natapos eon ro tatlong adlaw nga Medical-Surgical Mission nga ginpatigayon sa Dr. Rafael S. Tumbokon Memorial Hospital (DRSTMH) ko February 11-13, 2008. Sa inisyatibo ni Gov. Carlito S. Marquez, nangin possibli ro nasambit nga aktibidad nga ginpangunahan it Serge Bongabong Dioso Foundation ag Philippine Nurses Association of Michigan.

Nangin masako ro operating room it ospital bangud sa sari-saring surgical operations nga ginpatigayon kapareho it thyroid (goiter), cholecystectomy (bato sa apdo), ag hernia/hemorrhoids (luslos) para sa major operations. Maabo man ro ginpa-idaeum sa minor operations.

Mag euwas kara, ro gina hueat-hueat nga Cataract Mission hay nakaserbisyo man sa mga pumueuyong may masakit sa mata o may katarata. Dugang pa, may ginpatigayon man nga Medical and Pediatrics Consultation kun siin nakabaton it libreng bueong ro mga nagpakonsulta eabi gid ro mga unga. Sa kabilugan, ro ginbilog nga Surgical-Medical-Cataract Mission hay nakaserbisyo sa 359 ka mga pasyente:

Major Operation–20, Minor Operation–38, Cataract Operation–49, Cataract Consultation–80, ag Medical/Pediatrics Consultation–172 pasyente.

Libre ro nasambit nga mga operasyon ag konsultasyon busa maabong mga pumu-eoyo ro nakapa-dipueos sa sari-saring serbisyo nga ginhatud it mga masunod nga sponsors: Serge Bongabong Dioso Foundation, Philippine Nurses Association of Michigan, Eye Surgeons from St. Luke’s Medical Center, Philippine Nurses Association–Aklan Chapter, ag Aklan Provincial Government. /MP

NVC Alumni Foundation Prepares for 2010

Northwestern Visayan Colleges (NVC) Alumni Foundation is 60 years old. Founded in 1948, NVC Alumni Foundation celebrates its 60th day today February 21-22. The activities started with a dinner date on February 21 held in the NVC Gym Auditorium named ‘CSQ’ in honor of the late Carmen Salas Quimpo.

The dinner dance was the first salvo in preparation for the Grand Alumni Homecoming to be held in 2010. There were pledges from the progressive alumni which reached about P150,000 during the dinner date. The pledging was presided by Hon. Plaridel M. Morania.

The dinner date was highlighted with a power point presentation of the “NVC Then and Now”, door prizes, inspirational messages of Atty. Allen S. Quimpo, President – NVC, and PAPI president Johnny P. Dayang who is also NVC Alumni Foundation Chairman. Alumni were presented by tables.

Judge Lollie Villaruel welcomed the alumni and guests. Doxology was given by Uzziel Adores. Sharon Reyes & Co gave dance presentation and NVC Chordal Voices provided special number.

The program ended with the singing of Auld Lang Syne.

Ms. Edith U. Reyes was the emcee. /MP

Talakayan Is One Year Old

On March 17, the Aklan Police and Defense Press Corps (APDPC) will be one year old. It has adopted as one of its projects the “Talakayan Sa Isyung Pulis” (TSIP) which first broadcast was held on February 9, 2007.

Picture above shows (l to r) PSSUPT BENIGNO B. DURANA, JR., Provincial Director, PSUPT LARRY L DECENA, Deputy Provincial Director for Admin, PINSP AILEEN A RONDARIO, Chief PPCRB/PIO and PO1 Nida L Gregas, Deputy PIO as the regular host.

Since then, TSIP has become a regular weekly program every Tuesday afternoon. Subject matters taken up during the Talakayan are aired over the radio the following evening or day. For the print media, important and pertinent matters are published during the week.

The guests are top police officers who discuss police matters and issues of the week. They discuss police matters and issues which concern peace and order in Aklan. /MP

Editorial - February 16, 2008 ISSUE

By ambrosio R. villorente

You Are Our Valentine

Throughout the world, February 14 is always celebrated as Valentine’s day, a day singled out for celebrating love, to project love as a virtue, a commitment, a feeling hard to value or to quantify.

It is a day for sending cards to one’s love, to text it, e-mail it. It is also a day for gift giving like chocolates and heart-shaped red objects, flowers. It is declaring one’s underlying love to parents, relatives, friends, and sweethearts.

But one need not spend money to buy something for Valentine’s day. A simple greeting, or a kiss, for one’s husband or wife, or a love note tucked within the folds of his handkerchief before he leaves home for work can be enough. For a wife, appreciating food prepared or saying the magic term “I love you” could be enough to raise her spirit.

Quoting poems of old times, like Elizabeth Browning’s “How Do I Love Thee” is sufficient expression of love. How about the old-fashioned serenade where a guitarist plays the tune and you belt out a song from the heart?

But the best way to show one’s love to a love one is being there with her, demonstrate it in a number of actions, wordless ways, like taking over some household chores, or giving her breakfast, or taking care of the baby at night and so on.

Another way is to make our own special card that contains our innermost feelings for our loved one. The worth of a gift is not measured by money but in the effort one expends to give it.

In these days of advanced information technology, in addition to sending the expression of love via some traditional ways, one can contact a lover, a relative and friend in a matter of seconds. Just text it, fax it, e-mail it. Through the ocean waves divide, one can be closer with another.

Valentine’s Day started in France long time ago, during medieval times. It started in England on the second fortnight of the second month of the year. Hence, 14 of February. Valentine’s Day celebration is illustrated in the comedy of Shakespeare. “Two Gentlemen of Verona.”

The story tells of two friends: Proteus and Valentine. Proteus was deeply in love with Julia, but later deserted her. Proteus betrayed his friend, Valentine to the hand of Sylvia whom Valentine loved. However, Proteus and Valentine were reconciled. Valentine won Sylvia back and Julia was also reunited with Proteus.

Yes, the story of Saint Valentine is associated with all stories of love. It is lover’s day. In this day, almost all lovers’ gift materials enjoy brisk sales. Flowers and other gift items increase sales. Even motels and hotels are fully occupied where all manifestations of love and care are expressed and demonstrated. Restaurants, bars and nightclubs increase sales.

These are done because Valentine is love and love is giving, sharing, patient, endures and believes all things, hope all things, rejoice all things and never fail.

We must remember that love built on beauty, soon beauty dies. Love gives itself, it is not purchased. In words of George Gordon, “man’s love is of man’s life a thing apart. ‘Tis woman’s whole experience.” According to John Gay, “She who has never loved has never lived.”

Ardis Whitman argued that “love is a single act; but a climate in which we live, a lifetime virtue in which we are always learning, discovering, growing. It is not destroyed by a single failure or won by a single care. Love is a climax of the heart.”

Whenever and whatever you are, wherever you are, no mater what you do, you are rich, you are poor, you are old, you are young, you are sick or you are well, please remember always you are loved and you are a Valentine.

Today, Thursday, February 14 is Valentine’s Day. Enjoy celebrating lovers’ day. Enjoy the day loving hard and always. Happy Valentine! /MP

Entrepreneurial Farmer

Ambrosio R. Villorente

Probincianong Intsik

Atty. Sergio Apostol on the testimony of Mr. Rodolfo Lozada commented, “Lozada is a Probinsyanong Intsik who deserves to be deported.”

This remark is unbecoming of a good lawyer. Atty. Apostol deserves immediate dismissal from his post as Presidential Adviser for Legal Affairs. His upper–quoted remark is undiplomatic which may impede the harmonious relations between two countries, viz avis, the Philippines and the Peoples Republic of China.

Apostol must sincerely apologize to China, to her people, to the Filipino Chinese community and the Chinese communities in other countries such as in the United States and Europe. Moreover, Malacañang must also apologize to China for its failure to recruit top level government officials who can promote excellent, harmonious relations between the Philippines and with other countries. Malacañang must even apologize to the Filipinos for its oversight to recruit the brightest and the best among them for the position of Presidential Adviser for Legal Affairs.

Who Is Telling The Truth?

Listening and watching the Joint Blue Ribbon Committee, National Defense and Security Committee, and Trade and Industry Committee of the Senate of the Philippines, the viewers can easily identify who are telling the truth, who are telling half truths, who are for the people and who are depending the tenants in Malacañang Palace, Manila.

In a marathon hearing held on Monday, February 11, Mr. Rodolfo Lozada, Jr. appeared credible, and consistent in his testimonies. Lozada’s testimonies why he went to Hong Kong, his return to Manila, his alleged kidnapping from the NAIA until his return to La Salle Greenhills are more credible than the testimonies of Col. Mascarinas, Dep. Sec. Manuel Gaite, Gen. Atutubo, PNP Director Gen. Avelino Razon, Mr. Mike Defensor, Sec. Atienza and Atty. Bautista.

Gen. Atutubo’s response to the question of Sen. Biazon why Lozada was not allowed to pass through the immigration upon his arrival from Hong Kong is extremely incredible. Col. Mascarinas’ answers to the questions why he gave a tour to Lozada for about six (6) hours in Metro Manila up to Los Baños, Laguna are cover ups to people above and deserve to be fed to earthworms producing vermicast to fertilize farmers’ farm.

It is a pity that a good man, PNP Dir. General Avelino Razon was forced to answer questions seemingly in defense to both his men and some VIPs. Atty. Bautista in his testimonies is not really a great lawyer which he wished to project himself. In his testimonies, Atty. Bautista projected his arrogance by telling the irrelevance like his qualifications that were never asked.

Bautista was asked if there existed a lawyer client relationship between him and Lozada. His answer was far from satisfactory. If he is really a high caliber lawyer, why did he go with Col. Mascarinas to a coffee shop to wait for and meet with Lozada in a late evening? He could have waited in his law office or residence.

P50,000 Panggasto

Is Mr. Mike Defensor really a charitable friend of Lozada and a rich man who has much money to give for Lozada’s “panggasto”? Mr. Defensor handed Lozada an envelope which contained P50,000 for “panggasto”. Lozada did not open it but returned it, “baka matinta pa”, he told the committee.

Dep. Executive Sec. Gaite appeared credible. Lozada confided his fear to appear before the Joint Senate Investigating Committee regarding the National Broadband network (NBN) scam. Lozada requested assistance to prevent him from going to the senate and to testify. For if he is compelled to appear in that investigating committee, he will tell the truth as he cannot tell lies. But there were threats to his life from the people who will be adversely affected by his testimony. It will also disrupt his own life and that of his family members.

But according to Dep. Sec. Gaite, there is no way to evade Senate appearance except to go out of the country. Other reasons like health, prior appointment are just temporary. The only way to escape appearance is to go out of the country. Hence, Lozada went to Hong Kong after Sec. Gaite facilitated approval of his travel papers.

Malacañang Color

Senator Juan Ponce Enrile, a brilliant lawyer, exposed his color. In his questions, he wanted to portray Lozada as an incredible person unworthy to be listened to. Enrile asked Lozada about his character. He also asked Lozada to tell which are true and which are false among the testimonies of Gen. Atutubo, Col. Mascarinas, Atty. Bautista and others who refuted Lozada’s testimonies. Lozada obliged to answer Sen. Enrile, but later begged to answer after he is provided with copies of the investigation proceeding.

Senator Alan Peter Cayetano assigned Lozada to answer Sen. Enrile’s questions as homework and to provide copies of his answers to each member of the joint senate investigating committee.

Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago tried to follow the footpath of Sen. Enrile. She asked questions to test the morality and credibility of Lozada. She questioned Lozada about contracts he signed with the Board of Directors of the Forest Corporation.

Lozada answered: “whatever morality left in me, that is what I am now protecting.” Sen. Santiago appeared unsuccessful to render Lozada an incredible person.

Conclusion

Before the investigation adjourned in the evening of February 11, Senator Mar Roxas gave his conclusion.

During the hearing, he found Rodolfo Lozada’s testimonies more credible. Lozada knows many things about the NBN deal. Because he has several threats received including his family and relatives, he is afraid to appear with the Joint Senate Investigating Committee investigating the NBN Scam. He requested assistance from top government officials to prevent him from appearing in the said investigation. Because if he is allowed to testify, he will reveal the truth, what he knows about the NBN deal. He cannot lie.

And when he told the truth, his life and that of his family and relatives will be in jeopardy. /MP

No Greed Moderation

According to former Senate President Jovito Salonga, the Senate probe of the US $329 million National Broadband Network (NBN) deal has produced sufficient evidence that can be used to prosecute the First Gentleman (FG) Jose Miguel Arroyo, Former Comelec Commissioner Benjamin Abalos, Sr. and former NEDA Director General, now Secretary of the Commission on Higher Education Romulo Neri.

“Even President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo could be held accountable and be impeached in connection with the allegedly anomalous contract after she went to Boao, China to witness the signing of the contract with Chinese company ZTE,” said Salonga.

It was Jose de Venecia III who first revealed the NBN deal is anomalous. Another witness, Rodolfo Lozada, Jr. linked the FG to the deal during the February 11 Senate hearing on the alleged NBN deal scam.

Lozada also accused Mr. Benjamin Abalos, Sr. of brokering the deal in exchange for fat commissions.

According to Lozada, he is a good friend of Sec. Romulo Neri who tapped him as consultant in the NBN project. According to Lozada, Com. Abalos asked for a US $130 million overprice. Lozada told Sec. Neri of the requirement of Com. Abalos. In response, Sec. Neri advised Lozada to “moderate their greed.” Lozada in turn told Com. Abalos, US $130 million is too big at ‘bubukol yon”.

Because of that Lozada revelation, Abalos threatened he will file libel case against Lozada. Until this writing, Abalos has not file any complaint in court against Lozada.

NBI Gets Documents

On Tuesday, February 12, following the testimonies of Lozada, the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) agents went to Lozada’s office in the Philippine Forest Corporation (Philforest), Taguig City. They looked for some documents which maybe used as evidences in pursuing corruption charges against Lozada who was the Executive Director of Philforest before he left for Hong Kong on January 29. He resigned his position upon his return to the Philippines and before appearing in the Senate Investigating Committee on the NBN alleged anomalous deal.

Lozada stated that the NBI “raided my office and the people who replaced me are those who betrayed me.” His filing cabinet was opened, they took my personal stuff, lamented Lozada.

But according to Allan Contado, NBI anti graft division chief, it was not a raid. He denied. His agent Marlon Tauli just went to Philforest with NBI request for certified true copies of some documents concerning Lozada. “Lozada’s office was not ransacked,” he said.

Lawyer’s Group

Since Monday, February 11, Lozada is gaining support. The Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) announced it would join Friday’s mass protests to denounce the corruption exposed by the very credible witness in the Senate according to the newspaper report.

“We condemn and oppose all kinds of corruption. There could be no modernization of greed,” said IBP president Feliciano Bautista. “We call zero corruption in all public procurements,” Bautista stressed. /MP

Burning Rice Straw Is Illegal

By ambrosio R. villorente

Burning rice straw and other farm waste is illegal in the whole Province of Aklan. This prohibition is mandated by Provincial Ordinance No. 07 – 025, “An Ordinance Amending Ordinance No. 98–26, “An Ordinance Banning the Burning of Rice Straws On The Field And Imposing Penalties For Its Violation.”

The upper–stated ordinance is enacted and approved on November 15, 2007. The said ordinance is geared to prevent the destruction of plant nutrients and organic matter in the soil, avoid the killing of useful insects in the process of burning, reduce the consumption of commercial fertilizer, improve soil fertility, reduce global warming, minimize the negative effect of floods and el Niño among others.

According to the ordinance, “decomposed rice straws is one of the sources of organic fertilizer which enhances soil fertility and improves the water holding capacity of the soil, besides helping the farmers minimize their agricultural expenses as they (may) no longer need to buy expensive inorganic fertilizer.

To implement the provisions of the said ordinance is the Soil Conservation Committee created in each of the 17 towns which is composed of the Municipal Agricultural Officer – chairman. The members are the Municipal Planning Officer, chairman of Municipal Federation of Barangay Councils and Barangay Captain of the Barangay where the offense is allegedly committed.

The Soil Conservation Committee which is attached to the office of the municipal mayor will receive complaint, conduct investigation and hear complaint, evaluate evidences, render and submit decision on the complaint.

On the first year of implementation of this ordinance, any person found guilty under the said ordinance will be penalized by complying to a compulsory attendance to a three (3) hour lecture and laboratory work concerning soil conservation. On the second year of implementation, violation to any provision to the said ordinance will be penalized with a combined three (3) hours lecture and laboratory work or a fine of five hundred pesos (P500) or both.

This Provincial Ordinance No. 07 – 025 was duly published in a newspaper of general circulation in Aklan in December 2007. Hence, it is now effective. /MP

Kalibo To Operate Hatchery

Aims To Be WV’s “Bulgan” Supplier

By Venus G. Villanueva

Fishery experts from SEAFDEC and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) recently conducted assessment of Kalibo’s “Bulgan” (sea bass) hatchery to determine its readiness to operate soon.

The fish hatchery will be operated by LGU Kalibo, Municipal Agricultural Services Division. The hatchery assessment was requested by Kalibo Mayor Raymar A. Rebaldo through a letter addressed to BFAR Director Malcolm Sarmiento.

“Bulgan” or sea bass is of one of the country’s resilient fish species which can thrive in changing water temperature and climate. It also matures fast so propagation for commercial purposes is ideal.

In Aklan, sea bass is very much in demand, especially in the island of Boracay, which fetches a good price.

Kalibo’s municipal officials are optimistic that with the sea bass hatchery operation, the town could be Western Visayas’ supplier of fingerlings and mature sea bass or “bulgan”, as well.

The presence of government agencies in Kalibo, Aklan that aid farmers and fishermen in processing marine and meat products for added value and better marketing appeal can also enable bulgan to be an export product of Aklan, just like its Pina cloth, nito handicrafts and deboned milkfish (bangus).

Kalibo’s move to be a sea bass producer jibes with the country’s current program to promote agri-exports, which sea bass could be a part.

In a recent move to strengthen existing export markets and tap new ones for the country’s agricultural products, the Department of Agriculture (DA) has teamed up with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), Foreign Affairs (DFA) and the Export Development Council (EDC) in promoting agricultural and fishery products overseas.

The four agencies, represented by Agriculture Secretary Arthur Yap, Trade Secretary Peter Favila, Foreign Affairs Secretary Alberto Romulo and Philippine Exports Confederation Sergio Ortiz-Luis signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on this joint undertaking before the Cabinet meeting recently.

Yap said the MOA covers priority categories in the agri-fishery sector such as fresh and processed fruits and vegetables, marine products, root crops, natural fiber, horticulture, plantation crops, wood products, herbal products and natural ingredients.

Yap said the program to sustain and accelerate farm growth and raise the profitability of agriculture for its small stakeholders is in compliance with Mala-cañang’s directive to focus on sustaining food security and creating jobs as embodied in the Medium Term Philippine Development Plan (MTPDP). /MP