Chiz: Agri Self-Sufficiency Critical To Boosting Business Climate

Boosting agriculture self-sufficiency will be critical in lowering costs of doing business in the country and creating a more stable business climate, opposition Sen. Chiz Escudero said.

He reminded that the poorest families belong to the agricultural sector. Some 40 percent of our labor force is directly dependent on agriculture. Another 20 percent are indirectly dependent.

The average Filipino household spends about 52 percent of its income on food while the average Malaysian or Thai household spends only 34 percent for the same items.

"By lowering their expenditure on food the government would be awarding every family with an increase in disposable income, and mitigate labor demands for wage increases," Escudero believes. With increased income, it is expected the country’s business environ ment will have a big boost.

Escudero also called for an increase in the budget for agricultural research and development to 5 percent of agricultural production which stands at about P1.7 trillion.

This, he said, would bring about better varieties and more efficient farming methods which would increase yields and give the farmer higher incomes even while farmgate prices go down to benefit the consumer.

At the same time, Escudero said there is an urgent need to supply post harvest facilities to rice farmers.

"Our rice farmers lose as much as 20 percent of their palay harvest with the use of antiquated threshing and drying methods. If we could save only half of that or 10 percent, there would be no need for rice importation. We might even end up with a surplus," Escudero stressed. /MP

EDITORIAL

Illegal Recruitment In Aklan

On Wednesday morning, September 3, a KTV Bar was raided by the police on the basis of information that such establishment is allegedly employing minors and illegally detaining them. The raid resulted to the arrest of the floor manager and the rescue of two female minors and one adult employed as guests relations officers (GRO).

The police which raided the KTV Bar found the said establishment securely locked when they arrived. The three GRO’s were locked inside the establishment. They looked for the manager but was not located. They found however, the floor manager in another house who was immediately arrested and detained for allegedly committing human trafficking and illegal detention.

Where is the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE?) Do we have it in Aklan? What is it doing? Republic Act No. 8042 was approved to: 1. provide free legal assistance to victims of illegal recruitment and related cases; 2. Prosecute illegal recruiters; 3. Conduct special operations – surveillance, entrapment of persons engaging in illegal recruitment activities; 4. Conduct information and education campaigns about labor recruitment; and 5. Coordinate with the other appropriate entities in the implementation of said program.

But does the DOLE do these? Those establishments found to be engaging in illegal recruitment must be closed. How many are closed for illegal recruitment in Aklan particularly in Kalibo and Boracay Island Resort? There are some violators, but no closure. Is illegal recruitment function of the local government unit? If yes, concerned LGU’s must take action.

For the victims, they must be provided with legal assistance; assist victims in the filling of criminal complaints; provide counseling; provide legal advice; provide assistance in the preparation and documen-tation of complaints. But which will provide these above stated assistance to the victims? DOLE? LGU? The case at KTV bar, Kalibo is the Kalibo PNP action.

The DOLE is yet to come out with information about its anti-illegal campaign program. For instance, how does DOLE prevent the commitment of illegal recruitment? This prevention method must be widely disseminated especially in the media.

What is the penalty for example, for any violation of R.A. 8042? Is there fine? Imprisonment? or both fine and imprisonment?

The DOLE should discuss among the people the methods by which illegal recruiters violate the law. It must also inform the public how to avoid illegal recruitment such as the preventive approach and the remedial approach.

Aklan Re-greening

While traveling along the road system of Aklan, it is noticeable the Aklanons are busy cleaning the sides of the road. They are removing the weeds, re-planting ornamental and flower plants, putting pebbles and painting it.

What they are doing are in cooperation with the local government of Aklan program to beautify the countryside and make travel more comfortable and pleasant. It is being done to attract more visitors to visit Aklan.

The Aklan re-greening program will be more advantageous to our people if safety measure is added. This will be done by not planting the side walks and remove the existing fences for pedestrians. A re-greening guide maybe provided the people. /MP

Entrepreneurial Farmer

Ambrosio R. Villorente

LGU Kalibo Assures Prompt
Service Delivery

Local Government Unit of Kalibo has come out with a "Citizen’s Charter" Volume I. A copy is provided to the Aklan Press Club, Inc. Thank you very much Mayor Raymar A. Rebaldo for giving us a copy which is now available in the office for any member to read.

This Citizen’s Charter is an official document, a service standard, or a pledge, that com-municates, in simple terms, information or the services provided by the govern-ment to its citizens. It describes the step-by-step procedure for availing a particular service, and the guaranteed performance level that they may expect for that service."

It also includes vision and mission statements, services offered recipients of a service, the step-by-step procedure to obtain a particular service, the officer and employee responsible, the maximum time to conclude the process the clients must present documents, the amount of fees, procedure for filing complaints. It also includes names and contact details of the officials to approach.

Advantages

Citizen’s Charter will hasten customer satis-faction as it will result to high performance standards of public service delivery. It will promote equal treatment of customers brought about by clear and transparent procedure.
In case the quality and standard of services are not met, proper complaints and redress mechanism are provided the clients.

Moreover, Citizen’s Charter provides opportunity for people participation in service improvement. An avenue for customer feedback, suggestions, and recom-mendations should be put in place.

On the part of LGU Kalibo, it will reduce cost of public service delivery. It will also reduce vulnerability to graft and corruption as it provides less discretion to the service providers. The feedback mechanism provides adequate information for LGU on the excellent or worst performance LGU is providing its clients. This information received will enable LGU to gauge its service delivery performance. The feedback will provide basis in the assessment of performance.

Regulatory Services

But what are provided in the Citizen’s Charter are the LGU regulatory and taxing functions. It discusses the process to obtain mayor’s permit, tricycle operation permit, marriage application, issuances of building permits among others. The local civil registrar records births, and deaths. It also issues birth and death certificates.

It does not include law and ordinance enforcement, such as compliance to the provisions of the building code, laws, and ordinance, traffic laws, rules and regulations. Are these not service to the clients?

The Citizen’s Charter does not include the proprietary functions of the LGU. How long for the KAMB to submit report on the accomplishments on Ati-Atihan festival after the third Sunday of January of its year, with particularly emphasis on "Financial Report?" It does not mention how Kalibo Public Market and Shopping Center be managed specially its facilities like the toilet, lights and garbage trucks.

LGU Kalibo Citizen’s Charter is a good start for effective and productive public service. But com-pliance and enforcement of laws, ordinances, rules, and regulation in the Municipality of Kalibo are the demand of the time.

Kalibo will be highly people friendly if all the people can walk along the streets of Kalibo breathing with clean, fresh air, safe to traffic and sidewalk vendors, and free of road obstructions and of uniform elevation with enough light in the evening. /MP

Home For Aklan Media

This is the perspective of the "Dream Home" of the members of the Aklan Tri-Media. Spearheaded by the officers and members of the Aklan Press Club, Inc., they are in search for donors to help finance its construction amounting to P7 million.

Any amount donated will be highly appreciated. The donors maybe any individual, a group of individuals, and organization. Their donation will be acknowledged and receipted. The donor’s name, address, and amount donated will be published in the Madyaas Pen and will be announced in the radio. /MP

PSLINK SUES SYJUCO For Plunder

For buying and paying a pair of video discs on meat processing at P306,250.00; a dough cutter at P48,507.46; and an incubator jar at P15,375, Mr. Augusto Syjuco was sued for alleged plunder.

Mr. Syjuco is currently the director general of the Technical Education & Skills Development Authority (TESDA). According to the "Across the Nation" ofthe Philippine Daily Inquirer, the complaint was filed by the Public Services Labor Independent Confederation (PSLink) in a two page letter complaint.

Under the Laderized Education Program–TESDA (LEP-TES) and the Nordic Development Fund (NDF–TES), it alleged that the purchases were overpriced by P60.96 million which ranged from 4 percent to 42,723 percent per item. Syjuco allegedly paid P306,250 for a pair of video discs which actual price was P715; dough cutter for P48,507.46 which actual price was P120; incubator jar at P15,375 which actual price was P149 only.
In 2008, PSLink also filed corruption charges against Mr. Syjuco in connection with the printing of his book entitled: "Salabat For The Filipino Soul" that cost P9.2 million printed without any public bidding. After a thorough investigation, the PDI reported, the Presidential Anti Graft Commission (PAGC) found Syjuco guilty of grave misconduct over that book project. However, the committee of peers in Malacañang reversed the decision.

According to Ms. Annie Geron, PSLink secretary general, their complaint cited the Commission on Audit (CO) findings dated March 12, 2009 which reported that "four contracts awarded to VG Roxas & Co, Inc. worth P302,109,054.53 were overpriced by 20.18 percent."

The highest overprice, according to the report is in the cost of two (2) video compact discs "Gabay Sa Negosyo" on meat processing which cost P306,250 as the audit team found, it "only cost P715 with a 20 percent discount for government" agency like TESDA. It was found the overprice reached P305,535 or 42,732 percent.

Another item TESDA bought was plastic medicine cabinets at P2,182.86 each which only cost from P200 to P300 each in 2007.

Moreover, it did not only had big price differences between what were paid and the actual regular market prices, it were also of low quality.

In view of the tools’ low quality, some officials and employees in TESDA regional offices called it "Training Toys". COA also reported field officials and employees just kept them in the locked cabinets for fear that the items might get lost that they cannot afford to pay them or that it is not worth paying them in case of lost". /MP

Roxas Gives Way, Sacrifices

by AMBROSIO R. VILLORENTE

"Country Above Self," Sen. Mar Roxas declared in a packed news conference held in Club Filipino, San Juan, Metro Manila on Tuesday evening, September 1. In the presence of Liberal Party stalwarts, Roxas announced, "Noy has made it clear to me that he wants to carry the torch of leadership".

"Noynoy and I want to make a difference, but we also know that we need to unite to achieve what we want," Roxas said.

Reading Sen. Roxas’ prepared statement, he declared "I see this as fuel to bring us to the realization of our dreams: Good will win over evil." This is about our people. This is about people and our country. We agreed, let us forget about ourselves." This refers to his conversation with Sen. Benigno "Noynoy" Aquino, III during the last few days after the death of the late president Corazon C. Aquino.

"I am supporting Noynoy," Roxas announced. "I do this for unity and in support of change. And that means that somebody must make a sacrifice. It must be me," Roxas said. "I began the campaign to saw the seeds of reform. You must now be the one to grow them in the arena of leadership." Roxas described the Philippines as a country "in disarray and a bankrupt leadership".

According to Roxas, Sen. Aquino "shares the same outrage over the mess we are all in the same way we share the solution: clean, honest, selfless public services."

As president of the Liberal Party, it is within my power to preside over a potentially divisive process or to make the party a bridge for focus of change. I choose to lead unity, not division", Roxas stressed.

"We need a determined force for good, for stronger than the festering evil around us. We need to fight just as our own fathers fought dictatorship and just as both died believing that good will conquer evil," Roxas pointed out.

Manny Villar

Meanwhile, Sen. Manny Villar is not about to support Noynoy Aquino, according to the Nationalista Party spokesperson Gilbert Remulla. He believes the things going on in the Liberal Party is an internal party matters best left to the Liberal Party.

However, Sen. Francis Pangilinan is willing to set aside his candidacy for Vice President "if necessary to have a strong force for change that will support Sen. Aquino."

On the other hand, Makati Mayor Jijomar Binay proposed that the "opposition parties should now discuss the possibility of fielding a single standard bearer" in the May 2010 election.

Former president Joseph Estrada cong-ratulated Roxas for sacrificing his presidential ambition for the good of the Philippines. Estrada promised he "would try and reach out to the other presidential aspirants to build a united opposition for the forthcoming May 2010 national election." /MP

Rotarians In Kapehan Sa Aklan

Guests resource persons on last Saturday, August 29 Kapehan are (l to r) Dr. Victor Santamaria, Archt. Joel Mercurio, and Dr. Leonardo Raphael Tayco, Jr.

On Saturday, August 29, 2009, the Rotary Club of Kalibo was the guest at the weekly "Kapehan sa Aklan" upon the invitation of Aklan Press Club, Inc. President PP Ambrosio "Botoy" Villorente. Featured during the program and gaining exposure in the tri-media was Stop TB Now! – a health initiative of the Rotary Club of Kalibo and Rotary International District 3850. Representing Rotary Club of Kalibo were Pres. Joel Mercurio, Assistant Provincial Health Officer and Rotary Assistant Governor for Zone 4 PP Vic Santamaria, and Sec. Leonardo Raphael Tayco, Jr. as guest resource person. /MP

Stop Pulmonary Tuberculosis Now!

by ERNESTO T. SOLIDUM

August is celebrated annually as Lung month in honor of the memory of the late Pres. Manuel L. Quezon who was a high profile victim of pulmonary TB. Consequently, the Quezon (QI) Institute was founded that thousands of people living in pariah at that time can be treated of the said malady. But QI is now being used for other purpose.

Guests of the weekly Kapehan on August 29, 2009 were Rotarians who are Pres. Joel Mercurio, Sec. Dr. Leonardo Tayco, Jr., and Dr. Victor Santamaria, Asst. District Governor.

Dr. Ambrosio R. Villorente, Past President of the Rotary Club of Kalibo cited the benefits of information dissemination about an ancient killer disease that continues to snap out human lives up to the present. Majority of the victims however are the helpless and poor inhabitants.

Atty. Ronquillo C. Tolentino mentioned of the Mayo Clinic in the US which underscored early detection and treatment. He said that prevention includes keeping one’s immune system healthy, getting periodic skin/sputum test for high risk people and prophylactic treatment of at least six months.

Dr. Tayco said that Rotary District 3850 headed by Mr. Ed Garci has embarked on an aggressive national program titled, "Global Stop TB" in partnership with WHO. Statistics show that 75 Filipinos die daily due to pulmonary TB. One (1) in 10 persons develop active PTB. It is a disease of poverty. Bacteria known as tubercle bacilli spreads through air (coughing and sneezing) and one person has the potential to infect 10-15 persons per year if patient is left untreated. Undoubtedly, PTB is highly contagious and lethal if proper safeguards are not in place, warns Dr. Tayco.

Mr. Mercurio stated that Gov. Carlito S. Marquez has initiated the organization of Aklan PTB Council during the Multi-Sectoral celebration of Lung month. The council targeted 50 percent reduction of active PTB by 2015 from 2009 data. It is expected that beyond 2015, PTB will be totally eliminated in all places of Aklan.

Meanwhile, Dr. Santamaria said that RHU is implementing the Directly Observed Treatment Short course (DOTS), a national disease prevention program that administers immunization (BCG) for children 0-6 years old, prophylactic (free medi-cation) to patients for six months and diagnostic test (sputum test). Santamaria reminded the clienteles to be faithful in taking daily medication regimen. Skipping a day or two doses could lead to multiple drug resistant PTB. Furthermore, it needs two to three weeks of continuous treatment before a patient could no longer be labeled contagious.

Issues and concerns are the Herculean task of wiping out the disease considering the widespread poverty and hunger in our midst. Hunger refers to serious deficiency of recommended dietary allowance for a normal person per day. DOH list top 10 killer disease in the province in 2008 which are pneumonia (116,24/100,000 pop), cancer (68.8/100,000), heart disease (46.65/100,000), Coronary Artery Disease/Coronary Vascular Accident (41,07/100,000), Hypertension (39.68/100,000), Accidents (32.3/100,000), Chronic Obstruction Pulmonary Disease (20.53/100,000), Renal Failure (20.33/100,000), Pulmonary TB (19.93/100,000) and Myocardia Infarthon (17.14/100,000). However, two thirds of the above cases are directly related to poverty, hence preventable.

The Philippines has only 1.6 percent of national budget (2007) for health compared to Japan’s 8 percent and US – 18 percent. WHO recommends 5-10 percent to address concerns of the fundamentally flawed health care delivery system. Dr. Rey Melchor Santos, Pres. of Philippine Medical Association said that 6,000 doctors (many holding post graduate course as certified nurses) has left the country for the past three years. Presently, there is imminent shortage of doctors and nurses that may worsen in the next 10 years.

PTB is classified by DOH as number 14 cause of morbidity and number nine cause of mortality in Aklan. By reason of poverty and hunger, people are forced to work putting themselves seriously ill and others at risk of infection. Health authorities reveal that if one person is actively infected in a family, there is 5 percent chance the whole family members may be infected. Telltale signs of the disease are prolonged coughing for two weeks accompanied by blood in the sputum, weakness, emacia-tion, and perspiration.

In Aklan, case detection (sputum test) has been posted in 70 percent of the total population according to Dr. Santamaria. This is not clear, however, if vulnerable or at risk groups were targeted such as sustenance fisher folks, and farmers cultivating less than one hectare, migrant workers and unemployed. As a group, they comprise the lower third segment of Philippine society that earns one dollar a day according to the World Bank. It’s no wonder, 3,000 Filipinos fly out of the country daily in search of green pastures.

Choosing a healthy lifestyle such as exercise, balanced nutrition, freedom from vices, rest and recreation can immensely boost body immune system. One should consider raising fruits, vegetables, and poultry in the backyard as a healthy pastime and to augment income. Farm products grown in backyards do not contain chemical residues that are carcinogenic in nature unlike those done in commercial scale.

Reduced incidence of active pulmonary TB in Aklan should be gratifying to note compared to two decades ago when lung disease ranked among the top five leading causes of mortality. It is essential though that persistent effort be done to eradicate this disease sooner.

Kapehan hosts led by Aklan Press Club, Inc. and Publishers Association of the Philippines cordially welcome Rotarians as they provide the much needed leadership, prestige, teamwork and logistics to undertake a major health concern not only in the province but the entire country. /MP

COMMENT ON THE BLOG

Entrepreneurial Farmer

Hello,

After all what has been said and done, the net revenue is a pittance.
The Municipal Government of Kalibo is better off outsourcing the planning, marketing, sales, execution and management of Ati Atihan 2010. It can charge a fee, say P 500,000.00 or more, from the outsourced events management company and Kalibo is far ahead in the financials compared to Ati Atihan 2009.

Regards,
Elmar M. Gomez

Ed’s Note: The financial report which came out on the fourth week of August is now the subject of daily criticism in a radio station in Kalibo. Those concerned in the preparation of the Ati-Atihan financial report 2009 are yet to give their answers.

812 Dairy Animals From NZ Arrive

Some eight hundred twelve (812) dairy animals from New Zealand that arrived in the country last month have opened greater opportunities for dairy farmers.

The animal infusion is spearheaded by the National Dairy Authority (NDA) of the Department of Agriculture (DA) to augment local dairy production and to address milk sufficiency in the country.

This year’s animal procurement is the first time for NDA to acquire a multi-dairy breed for animal loan dispersal. Of the 812 animals, 600 are Holstein Friesian-Sahiwal crossbreeds, 199 are Kiwis (cross between Holstein-Jersey), 8 brown Swiss, 2 Jersey bulls and 3 Holstein Freisian bulls.

The animals were shipped thru MV Hereford Express. It arrived at Cagayan de Oro port to unload 383 animals allocated for Mindanao and Visayas regions. After which, it proceeded to Batangas port to deliver the remaining 429 animals for the Luzon farmers.

The 383 animals for Mindanao and Visayas are now quarantined for 30 days at the Del Monte Philippines, Inc. Feedlot Project in San Miguel, Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon while the Luzon animals are quarantined at San Simon, Pampanga.

The 30 days quarantine is a mandatory requirement of the Philippine govern-ment to ensure that the said animals are free from any disease or abnormality that may manifest during the quarantine period. It also allows the animals to acclimatize to tropical conditions and adopt to local dairy management practices. Around 212 of these animals will be dispersed to Mindanao dairy farmers, while 171 will be shipped to the Visayas region after the quarantine.(NDA Information Division) /MP

Include FG In NBN-ZTE Charge Sheet Roxas: To Ombudsman:

Senator Mar Roxas this week fired at the Office of the Ombudsman for absolving the First Family from graft charges over the controversial $329 million NBN-ZTE deal.

Roxas insisted that at the very best, First Gentleman Jose Miguel Arroyo should have been included in the charge sheet filed with the Sandiganbayan against former Elections Chairman Benjamin Abalos and former NEDA chief Romulo Neri.

According to Sen. Roxas, Mr. Arroyo is equally guilty of graft when he brokered the NBN-ZTE deal. He insisted the First Gentleman clearly had no business brokering in the project, and thus his unusual interest was uncalled for.

Roxas also questioned the timing of the release of the Ombudsman’s report, noting that the impeach-ment complaint against Gutierrez started only last Wednesday, August 26.

"Did they think that by releasing this report, Gutierrez will be absolved from the charges in the impeachment complaint? Of course not! She has to be held liable for betraying public trust by protecting the interests of Malacañang instead of the public, and the many other high profile graft cases that she just chose to sit on," he said. /MP

Entrepreneurial Farmer

Ambrosio R. Villorente

The Night of Dances*

*I wish to share my message presented to the NVC Community during the NVC Palaro 2009-2010 which featured ‘Night of Dances’ in the evening, August 27 at Carmen Salas Quimpo Gym, Estancia, Kalibo, Aklan. It states: "Ms. Melrose Q. Martelino, Chairperson, Board of Trustees; Atty. Allen Salas Quimpo, President, Northwestern Visayan Colleges; Ms. Erlinda Q. F. Wilson; Dr. Reinalda I. Magdaluyo, Dean, College of Education and Graduate School; Ms. Mary Grace Luces, President, NVC Supreme Student Council, members of the faculty, students, parents, and guests.

Welcome to the "Night of Dances". This evening’s affair is a very important component of the Northwestern Visayan Colleges’ three day "NVC Palaro" which started early this morning.

This year’s NVC Palaro has chosen its theme as "Love of Country Through Culture and Sports". I believed, understanding our Filipino culture will develop among the youth the genuine love of country. Engaging in sports will hasten camaraderie, teamwork, and cooperation.

In the words of a contemporary philosopher, Javier Perez de Cuellar, he said, "culture is the source and ultimate goal of development, which gives it its impetus, its quality, its meaning and its enduring foundation and that informs the promises of tomorrow".

Tonight’s affair is NVC’s way to lead our youth among others, to instill among them the love of country as well as to increase, to cultivate, and to improve their talents.

In the name of the NVC administration, management and the Supreme Student Council, from the bottom of my heart and mind, I welcome you all to a Night of Dances.

I truly wish the NVC community which includes the adminis-tration, management and staff, the members of the faculty, students, parents, visitors and guests will all enjoy tonight’s affair.

I truly congratulate all the participants to this night of dances. You are all winners. To the board of judges, thank you.

Good evening and let us enjoy the night.

Interim Financial Report

Hon. Raymar A. Rebaldo, mayor of the Ati Atihan town of Kalibo, took seven months after he released his "Interim Report of Revenue and Expenses" of the Sto. Niño Ati Atihan Festival 2009. To my understanding, interim means temporary, or provisional. This means, Mayor Rebaldo’s report is subject to change. Any question on it, he can always reply, that is only my provisional report. There are entries which maybe removed, changed, or added.

Examining the first page of the report, it is prepared by Ms. Nannie A. Roldan, head, budget, accounting and cashiering. It was submitted by Hon. Gregorio R. Malapad, Jr., chairman, budget, finance and solicitation. Mayor Raymar A. Rebaldo, chairman, KAMB noted the report. Who is responsible for the report? Ms. Roldan. She prepared the report.

The report states, it has a total revenue of P3,503,367.11 while its expenses are P340,835.59. There is an excess revenue over expenses of P162,540.42. However, the excess decreased to only P107,844.33 after deduc-ting the depreciation expense of P54,439.14 and taxes of P256.95.
Compared to the P140,246.54 Ati Atihan 2008 celeration, the P107,844.33 excess revenue is smaller by P32,402.21.

The principal sources of revenues are financial assistance, sponsorship, nights and gates, donations - festival events, income - sales of beers & soft drinks and subsidy for Higante parade.

The report stated there is P750.86 interest on bank deposit. This is income out of the use of money already earned. This is not a festival income. /MP

Joint Meeting for Progress

Improvement/Expansion of Caticlan Airport became the hot issue during the joint meeting of the Provincial Development Council, Task Force Bantay Boracay, Provincial Tourism Council, and Aklan Rivers Development Council.

The meeting also discussed the Environ-mental Master Plan which was presented by Dr. Alicia L. Lustica, Regional Technical Director of the DENR. Atty. Allen S. Quimpo, Executive Director, Aklan Rivers Development Council presented the Hydrologic Study and Assessment of Aklan River and Jal-O River in Balete. Engr. Roberto J. Cabigas, District Engineer, DPWH Aklan reported some completed and on-going public works projects.

Cabigas reported the on-going P164 million widening and opening of Loctuga – Manika road in Libacao, Aklan, the P100 million Aklan river dredging project in Numancia, the P46 million retrofitting of Kalibo Bridge, and the asphalt overlay project in Nabas. Cabigas also reported the unfinished Altavas – Jamindan road funded for P30 million.

In the case of the Caticlan Airport expansion which was presented by Mr. Lino Barte, there were several negative reactions especially its effect to the Kalibo Airport and the eastern part of Aklan.

According to Barte, Caticlan Airport will be improved on a Built Operate and Transfer (BOT) scheme. The runway will be extended from the present 0.95 kilometer long to 2.1 kilometers. The mountain in the south end of the present runway will be leveled to four (4) degrees slope to provide safety to the landing and take off of plane and its passengers. The present terminal building will be reconstructed in accord with international standard. Second floor will be added.

Hon. Elverita T. Templonuevo, mayor of Numancia suggested that part of the fund for dredging Aklan river be re-programmed to finance the construction of dikes to prevent flood in Numancia. According to her, with the present program, Numancia is becoming the catch basin for excess water. With that proposal, Gov. Marquez suggested that before the start of future projects of the national government, consultation must be done with the local officials as provided in the Local Government Code.

Governor Marquez welcomed the participants. He also gave the rationale of the joint meeting. Congressman Joeben T. Miraflores also gave his message. /MP

Culture & Sports Hasten Love of Country

"Love of Country Through Culture and Sports" is the theme of the 2-day NVC Palaro for the school year 2009-2010.

It started with the parade of athletes from the NVC Administration Bldg., Kalibo to the Carmen Salas Quimpo Gym, Estancia, Kalibo with Kalibo Chief of Police Arnolito Laguerta as guest speaker.

The 2-day sports competition will feature cheer dance competition, academic and cultural contest, ball games, night of dances, and "Laro Ng Lahi", said Mrs. Erlinda Q. F. Wilson, NVC Executive Vice President.

According to Atty. Allen S. Quimpo, the NVC Palaro is participated by students from all levels of the Northwestern Visayan Colleges; elementary, secondary, and tertiary. Atty. Quimpo looks ahead of the highly exciting exhibition basketball game (girls) between NVC Kalibo and NVC Boracay.

The games started on Thursday, August 27 and will end on August 29 where the students will devote their time in landscaping and beautification in the school campus. /MP

Senior Citizen Privileges and Survival

by Ernesto T. Solidum

Kapehan sa Aklan guests on the topic Senior Citizen are shown in the above picture. They are (l to r) Mr. J’Roel Del Rosario, Atty. Arnaldo Tejada, Sr., and Ms. Roselyn G. Salazar.

Kapehan guests on August 22, 2009 discussed the topic "Senior Citizens". Resource speakers were Ms. Roselyn G. Salazar, Social Welfare Asst.; Atty. Arnaldo M. Tejada, President – Federation of Senior Citizens–Aklan; and J’Roel del Rosario, Manager – Philhealth–Aklan.

According to Dr. Ambrosio R. Villorente, senior citizens on the basis of their acquired knowledge and experience must have vital roles in nation building however limited due to physical disadvantages. They should perform as models for the youth. Yet, it appears that senior citizens are subjects of social supports.

Atty. Ronquillo C. Tolentino cited Article IV, section 4 of the Cons-titution stating that it is the duty of the family to take care of its elderly members while the State may design programs of social security for them. RA 9257 of 2004 grants additional benefits and privileges to senior citizens. Salient provisions of this Act are the following: a) motivate and encourage the senior citizens to contribute to nation building, b) encourage their families and the com-munities they live in to reaffirm the valued Filipino tradition of caring for the senior citizens, c) give full support to the improvement of the total well being of the elderly and their full participation in society, d) recognize the rights of senior citizens to take their proper place in society, e) provide a comprehensive health care and rehabi-litation system for disabled senior citizens, and f) recognize the important role of the private sector in the improvement of the welfare of senior citizens and actively seek their partnership.

Atty. Tejada said, the first Senior Citizens Act was passed in April 1992 during the time of Pres. Corazon C. Aquino. This was inspired by the Senior Citizens Movement founded by Mrs. Aurora Aquino, mother of Ninoy. RA 9257 created the Office of Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA) whose head in a town is appointed by the Municipal Mayor for a term of three years. OSCA implements policies and guidelines related to contributions of senior citizens to the community (tutorial/consultancy services), privileges (20 percent discount from all business establishments) and government assistance (employment, education, health). To be qualified of benefits/privileges, persons at least 60 years of age must secure ID issued by OSCA.

The present OSCA building in Kalibo headed by Mr. Fernando dela Cruz is under renovation and is expected to open by December 2009 revealed the former Alderman. It is a pity that electrical installations worth P30,000 have been stolen from the building, hence its temporary closure.

Violations under this Act shall be fined P50,000 and imprisonment of not less than six months for first offense. Subsequent violations shall be fined P100,000 and imprison-ment of not less than two years. Atty. Tejada confirmed that qualified senior citizens are recently given P500 out of the "Katas ng Vat".

Ms. Salazar cited the role of DSWD under RA 9257 which are the following: a) Self and social enhancement services (socializing, organizing, creative expression) actively undertaken by OSCA Libacao, b) After care and follow-up services (counseling), c) Neighbor-hood support services (caregiving) and d) Substitute family care (residential care for neglected, abandoned, homeless senior citizens).

Salazar announced that October 1 – 7 is senior citizens week celebration and all senior citizens in the province are cordially invited to attend the program on October 1 at the ABL Sports Center, Kalibo.

Mr. Del Rosario said that PhilHealth provides medical insurance coverage to qualified members, 60 years of age and above and who have remitted their premiums of P120.00 per month. Privileges are also granted to their children less than 20 years of age including illegitimates and their spouses. The agency covers govern-ment employees in the active service, retirees, SSS members, and self employed persons paying their monthly premiums.

Indigent senior citizens are provided health insurance coverage under the Universal Insurance scheme generously funded by P10 million contributed by Cong. Joeben T. Miraflores and Gov. Carlito S. Marquez. Presently, there are 53,000 beneficiaries of the program with only P8.7 million spent so far said Del Rosario. Nabas, Makato, and Tangalan have supported the program out of IRA funds.

PhilHealth deductions from hospital bills amount to 20 percent while another 20 percent is granted to a qualified senior citizen.

Issues and concerns are difficulties faced by senior citizens in availing the 20 percent discounts in medicine, transport fare, supermarkets and other business establishments despite presentation of ID’s and purchase booklets. Apparently aging population are weak, senile, and dependent hence their legal privileges are often ignored or withheld.

For instance, pres-cribed maintenance drugs for the elderly patient (diabetic, hypertensive, and others) need to be updated by a competent physicians and reflected on the procurement booklet. This means consultation fee of P180 which in effect totally negate the 20 percent senior citizen discount. Again, the drugstores require that prior written certification of the patient must be secured if patient delegates it to someone. This is unnecessary paperwork since some patients are seriously debilitated that even signing their name is a great ordeal. Why can’t they make simple guidelines?

Worse, offenders can be tricycle drivers and bus conductors who routinely choose to ignore and flaunt the law. Presently, OSCA building has even closed for over a year and obviously no case has ever been filed and acted for the period.

Apparently, programs and social services designed to develop and assist the elderly are very inadequate. Listings of senior citizens who have reached age 60 are far too numerous now compared to previous generations because of government reorganization, and company downsizing. Their talents and training expertise could be invaluable assistance to less fortunate sectors of society but because of absence of credible and sustained program, this important resource is not appreciated. Bottom line is that senior citizens in this country have little impact on nation building or empowered as a group to avail of privileges under the law and improve chances of survival in this tough economic times. /MP

PCA Celebrates Regional Coconut Week

by Grechelle Gay G. Magbanua

The Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) along with the Department of Agriculture (DA) conducted the 13th Regional Coconut Week, and the Guimaras 9th Kalubihan Festival with the theme" Natatangi Itong Yaman, Oil na, Ginto pa". It was held at the Event Center, SM City, Mandurriao, Iloilo.

The event’s main purpose focused on showcasing the products which are created from coconuts and to make the Ilonggos familiar with the goods through the exhibits displayed in various places around the Event Center.

"The affair was in fulfillment to a presidential proclamation to alleviate the coconuts and to salute the coconut industry, as well as the coconut farmers and producers," Joey S. Cruz, PCA’s regional manager for Region VI pointed out.

All the provinces of Region VI participated in the exhibit which were provided each with small booth around the Event Center to showcase their respective local goods and products.

Products on display were made from the coconut trees ranging from native bags, hats, footwear, costumes, mats, textiles, fans, delicacies, sauces, and the famous virgin coconut oil.

Presidential Assistant for Western Visayas Dr. Raul Banias was the keynote speaker. Director Noel Reyes of the Agricultural Fisheries Information Service DA, Quezon City, and DA Regional Executive Director, Larry P. Nacionales also graced the occasion.

"A coconut is a tree of life, it is also money because hundreds of products can be produced from it", Dr. Banias stressed in his speech. He also pondered on the fact that coconuts could not just produce products, but it can attract tourists as well.

The celebration was a three-day affair, which started on August 19. The first day began with a ribbon cutting of exhibits and opening ceremony, "Coconut Rampahanay" followed in the afternoon which included an On the Spot Poster Making and Binalaybay and Composo Contest. A symposium on major products from coconuts was held on the second day. The activities ended with the "Nanay sa Kalubihan" pageant. /MP

Disqualified Pinoy Boxer: ‘No Foul Blow In Rematch’

by ALEX P. VIDAL

LOS ANGELES, California – Team Concepcion is back here a day after Bernabe Concepcion blew away a chance to wrest the World Boxing Organization (WBO) featherweight diadem from champion Steve Luevano with a dismal seventh-round disqualification loss, August 15 at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada.

"I didn’t hear the bell. I was surprised when the referee declared me winner by disqualification," confessed the 21-year-old speedster from Virac, Catanduanes who impaired to 28 wins (16 knockouts) and three defeats.

Top Rank chief Bob Arum said there will be a rematch in December, "and I will do my best to capture the crown. There will be no foul blow, this time," said Concepcion, whose failed title bid against the 28-year-old Luevano, was his fifth appearance in Las Vegas.

Concepcion, who is partly managed by Manny Pacquiao, was trailing in two of the three score-cards, 67-64 (Luevano), 68-65 (Luevano),66-67 (Concepcion) when round seven expired.

Before the illegal punch was unloaded, Luevano (37-1, 15 KO’s) wobbled Concepcion with accurate rights and jabs. The five feet and seven inches tall southpaw from La Puente, California had secured the last four rounds after faltering in rounds one and two.

Concepcion, who fights for Aljoe Jaro stable in Binangonan, Rizal in the Philippines, was impressive in the first two rounds peppering the taller champion with hooks and effective shots to the body.

The five feet and four inches tall challenger digged into Luevano’s breadbasket and protected his slight lead in the second canto with crisp body shots.

There was initial confusion when referee Jay Nady raised Luevano’s hand after the dis-qualification as Con-cepcion’s cornermen leaped in frustration but simmered down after being chided by Nady whose verdict was upheld by the Nevada State Athletic Commission which supervised the duel along with the WBO.

"It was not intentional but it was a good call," admitted Concepcion’s trainer Freddie Roach.

Concepcion is being groomed as "the next Manny Pacquiao" and was once lined up to challenge Puerto Rican phenom Juan Manuel Lopez underneath the Pacquiao-Oscar De La Hoya tussle on December 5, 2008.

His manager, Aljoe Jaro, however, rejected the "last-minute" invitation as Concepcion was moving up to the 128-lb category.

Jaro, who co-manages Concepcion, has predicted that his ward would become world champion before reaching 25.

The loss was over-shadowed by Nonito Donaire’s 12-round unani-mous decision victory over Rafael Concepcion for the World Boxing Association interim super flyweight championship. /MP

KTMC Inducts Officers for 2009-2010

Kalantiao Toastmasters Club (KTMC) – 767889 of District 75, Division D, Area 32 celebrated Cocktail Hour and Installation of Officers with the theme: Unleash Your X-factor to make a difference". The affair was held in the afternoon of Thursday, August 27, 2009 at Hernani’s Mix ‘n Match Bar & Restaurant, L. Barrios St., Kalibo, Aklan.

The guest speaker was Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM) Noli Espina of Cebu City. He is the District 75 Governor, Philippines.

The officers inducted for 2009-2010 are: Melrose "Megs" Lunn – president (founder), Dr. Felma Dela Cruz – VP for education, Dr. Cynthia Dela Cruz – VP for membership, Chita Dela Cruz–Heap – VP for public relations, Mr. Juim Jimlan – VP assistant to PR, Dr. Ramona Magayanes – VP for socials and fellowship, Rhoda Elias – secretary, Judith Tindog – treasurer, Grace De Jose – asst. sec. treas., Salvador "Buddy" Balleza – Sgt. at Arms., Hon. Celia Carpio Dela Cruz – Ex-Officio. Dr. Dureza "Dors" D. Abad – member, Dr. Ambrosio "Botoy" R. Villorente – Charter President

Toastmasters Inter-national promotes "Better Thinking, Better Listening, Better Speaking". KTMC is now on its 5th year of existence. /MP

105 Brgy. Officials and Lupon Members Undergo Brgy. Human Rights Training

by TERENCE T. TORIANO

Some 105 barangay officials and members of the Lupong Tagapamayapa from the 16 Barangays of Kalibo underwent a 3-day Barangay Human Rights Training held at the Social and Conference Hall at the Municipal Building, Kalibo, Aklan on August 18 to 20, 2009. The training was sponsored by LGU Kalibo, Liga ng mga Barangay of Kalibo and DILG-Kalibo.

The Barangay Human Rights Training is themed, "Accessing Justice Through a Responsive Barangay Justice System". Lawyers from the Public Attorneys Office discussed related laws, gender and human rights, and the overview of the Katarungang Pambansa including its frameworks and procedures, alternative dispute resolution and effective communication.

Kalibo Mayor Raymar Rebaldo, during his Opening Remarks cited the people living in the barangay can have access of the Barangay Justice where petty cases may be resolved except for VAWC cases or violence against women and children as a way to unload the Kalibo Police Station and the municipal courts with cases.

The participants were provided books regarding the rights of women and children, including the provisions and penalties provided by law. /MP

Safeguards Planholders In Final Pre-Need Code

This week, Sen. Mar Roxas vowed to push for the interests of pre-need planholders over industry players in the final version of the Pre-Need Code, which will soon be under congressional bicameral deliberations.

Roxas, chairman of the Senate trade and commerce committee, assured he will frontload consumer rights and give priority to the viability of the industry when the bicameral conference committee begins reconciling the differing versions of the bill passed by the Senate and the House of Representatives.

The Senate approved the proposed Pre-Need Code of the Philippines on June 11 2008. The House approved its own version only last August 12. No date has been set for the bicameral meetings.

"Will look out for the interest of the consumers in our deliberations. It is important to protect the future of the industry without sacrificing the consumers’ own future," Roxas said.

He stressed the need for the adequate protection and security of consumers by way of a restructured trust fund mechanism; and for pre-need companies to be subject to strict dis-closure requirements, including the disclosing of risks associated with buying pre-need plans.

"We need to fix the industry. I pity those who were scammed by the likes of Celso de los Angeles into losing savings meant to ensure their family’s future," Roxas said.

More Teeth In OFW Protection

Also this week, Senator Mar Roxas called for stronger government protection for the estimated 10 million Filipinos working abroad, especially against abuses by their employers or host countries.

At the same time, Roxas vowed to press for reforms in government policy involving the deployment of skilled and non-skilled workers to other countries as he noted the growing number of Filipinos overseas and the rising number of sad OFW-related incidents.

"I believe that the best thing we can give to our OFW is security for them. We need to give them all the support and protection so they will be spared of abuses while they are abroad," he said.

The government must also reduce the financial burden of Filipino overseas workers by removing the 0.15 percent Documentary Stamps Tax (DST) on money remittances to the country, Roxas suggested. It is a "significant financial burden to (OFWs) con-sidering that the country is already experiencing unprecedented highs in food and oil prices," he said.

Roxas also pushed for the professionalization of the Foreign Service system, which he said would ensure that only the most talented and most qualified are recruited by the government to ensure that our OFWs will get quality assistance from personnel and officers of the Department of Foreign Affairs.

He also pressed Malacanang to release the P50 million for the OFW Social Reintegration program to the Department of Labor and Employment. The program provides "balikbayan" OFWs with sufficient knowledge of how to use their savings as well as investment opportunities and other forms of reintegration assistance.

The government must ensure that OFWs have access to communication wherever they are to easily call Philippine offices in their areas in cases of employer problems and that free legal services for those facing legal problems are readily made available, Roxas recommends. Pre-departure orientation and preparation seminars should likewise be given to departing OFWs to brief them of their rights and on what they should and could do should they encounter difficulties in their jobs, he added.

But all these reforms, he stressed, could only take place once an activist government – one that cares for and listen to its people – takes over from the current administration, which has consistently shown insensitivity to the plight of its workers abroad. /MP