Provincial Legislation, Daunting Challenge For Women’s Rights

by ERNESTO T. SOLIDUM

Kapehan guests at Smokehauz Resto & Bar on March 13, 2010 discussed the topic, "Prov’l. Legislation Program of Aklan." Hon. Daisy S. Briones, SP member and last termer re-electionist, and Hon. Lilian Q. Tirol, SB member of Kalibo and now Sangguniang Panlalawigan candidate. Both are running under the Tibyog-Kusog party leadership (Eastern Sector) of Gov. Carlito S. Marquez. There was no explanation why other candidates invited failed to come.

Atty. Ronquillo C. Tolentino said that pursuant to Section 468 of RA 7160 or Local Government Code, the SP has the following powers, duties and functions: a) Approve ordinances and pass resolutions necessary for an efficient and effective provincial government, b) generate and maximize the use of resources and revenues for the develop-ment plan, program objectives and priorities of the province as provided for under Section 18 of this Code, c) grant franchise, approve the issuance of permits, licenses or enact ordinances levying taxes, fees, and charges upon such conditions and for such programs intended to promote general public welfare, d) approve ordinances which shall ensure the efficient and effective delivery of basic services and facilities, and e) exercise such other power and functions as may be prescribed by law.

Hon. Briones concurrently holds the Committee Chairmanship on Women, Children and Family Welfare. She is also a committee member on health, population and human resource. An optometrist by profession, she is considered a veteran legislator and public servant. Her advocacy is championing the rights of women, children and family. She co-authored the Gender and Development Code with Atty. Ronquillo C. Tolentino, and the Aklan’s Children’s Code.

Perhaps, the reason why the Philippines is behind in socio-economic development is because our women are treated as second class citizens, said the lady board member. Under Gender and Development Code, women’s rights and privileges are equal with men.

This is the abiding principle behind the UN declaration of International Women’s Day that falls every March 8 of each year.

Progress in our economy is correlated to the progress of women in society. Women should strive for higher education, technology and income in order to be empowered. Key to this endeavor could be significant investment in education and scholarship grants to deserving students.

Hon. Tirol summarized her programs of legislation by the acronym GETWACE. G–governance, E–education for all, T–tourism, W–women and family welfare, A–agricultural productivity, C–capital support and E–environmental protection.

She is very passionate about public service as repository of trust and confidence, education as key to improve social status, tourism development for Ati-Atihan and Boracay, women and family welfare to be comprehensive and universal, agricultural productivity for food security, capital for liberal financing and environmental protection by conserving and expanding our forest cover.

A suggestion by Atty. Tolentino is for SP Aklan to pass a resolution to declare March 8 of every year as public holiday. Well on first thought, this is welcome idea knowing fully that this is in consonance with the basic principle of the UN body.

The problem is our long list of national and local holidays that are not even properly observed. A good look at it is how Independence Day celeb-ration that epitomizes/liberation from tyranny and oppression and embracing the portals of freedom consists of flag rising ceremony, wreath laying, minimal civic parade and bland speeches.

At local level, the liberation of Panay, Gov. Evelio Javier Day and XIX Martyrs Day that tend to surprise people why schools and offices are closed on above occasions. On top of it all is the week long religious fiestas and local foundation anniversaries.

Presently, we have massive poverty and hunger problems according to Albay Gov. Joey Salceda, top adviser of Ms. Arroyo. He said that 25.47 million families live on P1,200 per month, rose to 27.6 million in 2006. Given an average economic growth in the last four decades, it would take 37 years for the poor to get out of poverty, Salceda said.

Meanwhile, Margarito Teves, Secretary of Finance averred that our outstanding national debt of P4.4 trillion as of Oct. 2009 means that each working age Filipino has a share of P75,000.

In a developing country, the people must be productive and hardworking rather than tolerate whimsical/capricious holidays. It should be noted that the US has only three holidays celebrated with much enthusiasm and funfare which are Independence Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas. Yet the US is a superpower.

While women constitute a significant percentage in the labor force, discrimination against them abounds. Obviously, this has to do with maternity leave, male chauvinism and sexual offenses. In an economy where un/underemployment are rated high, more women are underpaid and first to be laid off.

Atty. Ronquillo C. Tolentino raises a thorny and controversial issue on taxation that by legislative fiat, SP engages in every three years. Taxation for development is indeed necessary to finance programs and projects deemed important for progress and stability. Revenue allocation is 25 percent for barangays, 40 percent municipal, and 35 percent provincial. Nevertheless proposed ordinance covering taxation, levy, and all others are subjected to public hearings/consultation. It should be underscored that political campaign by local candidates according to Comelec officially started on March 26. /MP

Provincial Legislation, Daunting Challenge For Women’s Rights

by ERNESTO T. SOLIDUM

Kapehan guests at Smokehauz Resto & Bar on March 13, 2010 discussed the topic, "Prov’l. Legislation Program of Aklan." Hon. Daisy S. Briones, SP member and last termer re-electionist, and Hon. Lilian Q. Tirol, SB member of Kalibo and now Sangguniang Panlalawigan candidate. Both are running under the Tibyog-Kusog party leadership (Eastern Sector) of Gov. Carlito S. Marquez. There was no explanation why other candidates invited failed to come.

Atty. Ronquillo C. Tolentino said that pursuant to Section 468 of RA 7160 or Local Government Code, the SP has the following powers, duties and functions: a) Approve ordinances and pass resolutions necessary for an efficient and effective provincial government, b) generate and maximize the use of resources and revenues for the develop-ment plan, program objectives and priorities of the province as provided for under Section 18 of this Code, c) grant franchise, approve the issuance of permits, licenses or enact ordinances levying taxes, fees, and charges upon such conditions and for such programs intended to promote general public welfare, d) approve ordinances which shall ensure the efficient and effective delivery of basic services and facilities, and e) exercise such other power and functions as may be prescribed by law.

Hon. Briones concurrently holds the Committee Chairmanship on Women, Children and Family Welfare. She is also a committee member on health, population and human resource. An optometrist by profession, she is considered a veteran legislator and public servant. Her advocacy is championing the rights of women, children and family. She co-authored the Gender and Development Code with Atty. Ronquillo C. Tolentino, and the Aklan’s Children’s Code.

Perhaps, the reason why the Philippines is behind in socio-economic development is because our women are treated as second class citizens, said the lady board member. Under Gender and Development Code, women’s rights and privileges are equal with men.

This is the abiding principle behind the UN declaration of International Women’s Day that falls every March 8 of each year.

Progress in our economy is correlated to the progress of women in society. Women should strive for higher education, technology and income in order to be empowered. Key to this endeavor could be significant investment in education and scholarship grants to deserving students.

Hon. Tirol summarized her programs of legislation by the acronym GETWACE. G–governance, E–education for all, T–tourism, W–women and family welfare, A–agricultural productivity, C–capital support and E–environmental protection.

She is very passionate about public service as repository of trust and confidence, education as key to improve social status, tourism development for Ati-Atihan and Boracay, women and family welfare to be comprehensive and universal, agricultural productivity for food security, capital for liberal financing and environmental protection by conserving and expanding our forest cover.

A suggestion by Atty. Tolentino is for SP Aklan to pass a resolution to declare March 8 of every year as public holiday. Well on first thought, this is welcome idea knowing fully that this is in consonance with the basic principle of the UN body.

The problem is our long list of national and local holidays that are not even properly observed. A good look at it is how Independence Day celeb-ration that epitomizes/liberation from tyranny and oppression and embracing the portals of freedom consists of flag rising ceremony, wreath laying, minimal civic parade and bland speeches.

At local level, the liberation of Panay, Gov. Evelio Javier Day and XIX Martyrs Day that tend to surprise people why schools and offices are closed on above occasions. On top of it all is the week long religious fiestas and local foundation anniversaries.

Presently, we have massive poverty and hunger problems according to Albay Gov. Joey Salceda, top adviser of Ms. Arroyo. He said that 25.47 million families live on P1,200 per month, rose to 27.6 million in 2006. Given an average economic growth in the last four decades, it would take 37 years for the poor to get out of poverty, Salceda said.

Meanwhile, Margarito Teves, Secretary of Finance averred that our outstanding national debt of P4.4 trillion as of Oct. 2009 means that each working age Filipino has a share of P75,000.

In a developing country, the people must be productive and hardworking rather than tolerate whimsical/capricious holidays. It should be noted that the US has only three holidays celebrated with much enthusiasm and funfare which are Independence Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas. Yet the US is a superpower.

While women constitute a significant percentage in the labor force, discrimination against them abounds. Obviously, this has to do with maternity leave, male chauvinism and sexual offenses. In an economy where un/underemployment are rated high, more women are underpaid and first to be laid off.

Atty. Ronquillo C. Tolentino raises a thorny and controversial issue on taxation that by legislative fiat, SP engages in every three years. Taxation for development is indeed necessary to finance programs and projects deemed important for progress and stability. Revenue allocation is 25 percent for barangays, 40 percent municipal, and 35 percent provincial. Nevertheless proposed ordinance covering taxation, levy, and all others are subjected to public hearings/consultation. It should be underscored that political campaign by local candidates according to Comelec officially started on March 26. /MP

Briquette At Eco Park

Shown is the burner with Atty. Allen S. Quimpo explaining its operation.

Starting the engine of the mixer machine.

Preparing the newly molded charcoal briquettes for air drying and later solar.

"The Philippines is rich with natural resources, but her people choose to be economically poor". The Philippines has wide track of lowland so fertile for food production like cereals, vegetables, pork and beef. However, the Philippines is importing these commodities to fill the actual demand.

There are several rivers with enough water to irrigate agricultural lands, produce electricity, minimize the effect of floods, but most of the river waters are not harnessed for the good of the people.

The sea area is even wider than the land area. The sea is inhabited by various species of fishes use both for food and as ornamentals. However, the Filipinos has not maximized the fish catch from deep sea fishing. Some fishermen had even destroyed the sea resources with the use of chemicals and explosives in fishing. As a result, fish is always in shortage thereby resulting to importation. There are more mountains and hills but Filipinos have destroyed the forest resulting to rapid soil erosion, river banks destruction and siltation. It resulted to deep floods annually, and destroying lives and properties worth billions of pesos.

Bakhawan Eco Park

In view of this destruction, a coastal Bakhawan replanting project was started in Buswang New by the Mayor of Kalibo in the 1980’s, Atty. Allen S. Quimpo. It started with 50 hectares. It has gradually increased annually until today which is now 170 hectares. He left the project to former Mayor Diego M. Luces followed by Mayor Raymar A. Rebaldo after his election as Congressman of Aklan. But Atty. Allen S. Quimpo continued assisting the project.

On Tuesday morning, March 16, the Kay Nishimura Shed, now a component of the Bakhawan Eco Park was blessed. The charcoal briquetting machine was blessed and launched. This machine according to Atty. Allen S. Quimpo cost P90,000. This is a set which consist of five (5) components: The burner, the grinder, the mixer, the binder, and the dryer.

The simple launching program included the demonstration in the operation of the briquetting machine from burning to the drying of the charcoal briquettes by former congressman Allen S. Quimpo who is now the chairman of the KASAMA MPC.

Compared to the bulk of the ordinary wood charcoal, the briquette charcoal weighs 40 kilograms per sack to 17 kilograms. Therefore, it reduces volume, packaging materials, transport and handling cost.

These briquettes being produced are from the leaves and pruned branches of the bakhawan. Compared to ordinary charcoal, these charcoal briquettes had more intense heat, having higher British Thermal Unit (BTU).

According to Mr. Mcmillian, an expert from Texas University, the 170 hectares of Bakhawan in Buswang New is capable of producing 34,000 metric tons charcoal per annum or 34 million kilograms. At P10 per kilogram, it will be P340 million. The 170 hectares Eco Park will make the people of that barangay millionaires, if they will develop diligence, perseverance and frugality. And why not? /MP

Trash in Gold and Fame

by Ernesto T. Solidum

Ms. Racel I. Gomez, former Mayor Ernesto I. Templonuevo, Mayor Elvirita Templonuevo, Dir. Diosdado P. Cadena, Jr., DTI Provincial Director, Hon. Jerome T. Vega, representing Gov. Carlito S. Marquez and Ms. Brenda I. Marte, Municipal Agricultural Officer, the picture above shows.

Former Mayor Ernesto I. Templonuevo of Numancia, Aklan does not believe that gold needs to be mined from the bowels of the earth. It exists here and there even right in our fingertips. However, the precious mineral has no monetary and aesthetic value unless purified through a scientific process where it could be enjoyed forever.

Discovery of black gold actually first came out from market trash heap at the back of a public market of Numancia. In 1989, the former Mayor Templonuevo had the big problem of disposing filthy garbage where no dumping site exists. While mulling over the problem, he received an invitation to attend a Municipal Mayor’s convention.

"It was in this conference that a portable shredder was introduced that pulverizes the different kinds of waste defficiently. I immediately thought of our problem on garbage back home," he recalled.

Acquisition cost of P450,000 did not deter him to bring the machine to Numancia. Okey, the gadget gobbled up the trash in a matter of hours. Now comes another problem. What to do with converted trash? Definitely during that time, it was not saleable.

Fortunately, a UN Volunteer from Thailand advised him to feed them to earthworms. It is indeed unbelievable. Yes, you heard me right.

In 2005, Templonuevo attended the 1st International Symposium on Vermiculture at Los Baños, Laguna. Participants were given hands on training in addition to lectures and field visitation. A businessman by occupation, he called it one of the best things that happened in his life.

Meanwhile, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) in 2004 had a program on One Town, One Product (OTOP) where Numancia listed Organic Fertilizer Production as its project. This led to the organization of Numancia Vermicast Producers MPC with Ms. Racel I. Gomez as chairperson. The coop is recipient of a P300,000 loan through Cooperative Development Authority which is now partly paid.

Production of vermicast fertilizer were undertaken by 22 active members each one securing shredded waste material from market depot. Of course supplemental feed for African Night Crawler Specie of earthworm also comes from agricultural wastes which are abundant.

The bulk of the finished products of the coop find its way to the members who are big time farmers themselves. For instance E.I. Templonuevo operates a 6.0 hectare rice farm while other members like Dr. Florencia F. Villorente and her son, Jun. had a similar area but integrated to rice, aquaculture and vegetables.

"About two-thirds of our daily production is sold in the open market, "says the energetic businessman. "Our production capacity of pure varmicast is 5 tons per week while mixed organic fertilizers (vermicast, carbonized rice hull, rock phosphate and chicken dung) is 5 tons per day. The price of pure vermicast is P400.00 per bag (50 kgms) while mixed fertilizer is P220.00. However , we do not exceed production potentials because of slackened market demand due to El Niño phenomenon," related Templonuevo.

The Municipality of Numancia under Mayor Elverita T. Templonuevo is national awardee as Best OTOP Implementor, DTI under Agri-Aqua sector on March 12, 2010. Prize comes with a trophy and cash gift of P220,000 during a ceremony held at the Philippine Trade Training Center, Manila. This is remarkable since recipients were limited to three in Luzon, one in Visayas and one in Mindanao.

It would be recalled that on July 14, 2009 during the first OTOP congress in Aklan, Numancia was awarded Most Outstanding OTOP MSME Implementer by DTI.

Converting waste into fertilizer may turn off most people but impact on health, environment and livelihood could be tremendous. Numancia’s earthworm farms are continuously visited by foreign dignitaries, technocrats, farmers, leaders, and educators. In all probability, shifting to organic fertilizer could be the best alternative farm investment now and in the foreseeable future. /MP

EDITORIAL

On March 14 – 19, Aklan will play host to the West Visayas Regional Athletic Association (WVRAA) competition. However, some sports officials have started arriving in Kalibo since Tuesday, March 9 for various purposes connected with the sports competition.

The municipalities of Lezo, Makato, Numancia and Kalibo will serve as hosts of delegations from Guimaras, Antique, Capiz, Iloilo, and Negros Occidental including the component cities from those provinces while the principal venue of the games is Calangcang, Makato. Other games will be played in Lezo, Numancia and Kalibo. Track and field, swimming, basketball will be played in Makato.

Badminton, Volleyball and other ball games will be played in Kalibo. Sepak Takraw will be played in Lezo. Almost all the cultural contests like singing will take place in Kalibo.

The game starts on Sunday March 14 but the opening ceremonies will be held on Monday morning in Makato. Games will be suspended while the opening ceremony takes place on Monday morning. Sports competition will resume on Monday afternoon.

To those who question the delay of the opening ceremonies, the answer is the delayed arrival of the guest of honor and speaker.

Mr. Gilberto "Gibo" Teodoro, Jr. former Tarlac congressman and secretary of the Department of National Defense and now presidential candidate for the May 10 national election is unable to attend on Sunday, March 14. Being the guest of honor and speaker, the management in the conduct of the regional sports events wait for his arrival to grace the opening ceremonies.

For the lack of the needed sports facilities, Aklan will host this annual sports competition among the school youth of Western Visayas after 16 years. The last time Aklan hosted the WVRAA was in 1995. Thanks to the administration of Governor Carlito S. Marquez for devoting some amount for the rehabilitation, repair and development of the Calangcang Sports Complex in Makato. After this yearly sports events, these sports facilities will stay available for physical and mental development of the Aklanon youth. It will develop sportsmanship among our people particularly the youth. As Grantland Rice once said, "When the great scorer checks your name, he marks not that you won, or lost but how you played the game".

Sports is a gauge, as well, how far a nation has improved her economy. In 1964, Tokyo, Japan hosted the Olympics. After the games, her economy surged. In that year, the money conversion was 315 yen to one US dollar. Today, it is one US dollar to 107 yen.

In 1967, Spain was as reach as the Philippines but perhaps the poorest in Western Europe. Like the Filipinos of today, Spanish women went to its neighboring countries for seasonal jobs. Spain was not a member of the European Economic Community that time. Her money was called "peso". After the Barcelona Olympics, the Spanish economy improved. Today, Spain is as wealthy as any country of the European Union.

It is expected that the Province of Aklan will perform well in this WVRAA competitions, as the performance of the people in sports is parallel to their performance in economics and business.

Cited are the Philippines’ neighbor countries. Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Thailand appear more advanced than the Philippines in sports that they have also better economy than the Philippines. South Korea after hosting the Olympic Games in Seoul is now becoming a tiger economy. Today, it is so difficult to beat the South Koreans in basketball than 30 years ago when the South Koreans were the weeping boys of the Filipinos.

The performance of the Aklanon athletes including cultural is a good indicator as to how far the Province of Aklan has advanced both in sports and the economics in comparison with other provinces of Region VI or Western Visayas. /MP

EDITORIAL

Sports As Economic Indicator

On March 14 – 19, Aklan will play host to the West Visayas Regional Athletic Association (WVRAA) competition. However, some sports officials have started arriving in Kalibo since Tuesday, March 9 for various purposes connected with the sports competition.

The municipalities of Lezo, Makato, Numancia and Kalibo will serve as hosts of delegations from Guimaras, Antique, Capiz, Iloilo, and Negros Occidental including the component cities from those provinces while the principal venue of the games is Calangcang, Makato. Other games will be played in Lezo, Numancia and Kalibo. Track and field, swimming, basketball will be played in Makato.

Badminton, Volleyball and other ball games will be played in Kalibo. Sepak Takraw will be played in Lezo. Almost all the cultural contests like singing will take place in Kalibo.

The game starts on Sunday March 14 but the opening ceremonies will be held on Monday morning in Makato. Games will be suspended while the opening ceremony takes place on Monday morning. Sports competition will resume on Monday afternoon.

To those who question the delay of the opening ceremonies, the answer is the delayed arrival of the guest of honor and speaker.

Mr. Gilberto "Gibo" Teodoro, Jr. former Tarlac congressman and secretary of the Department of National Defense and now presidential candidate for the May 10 national election is unable to attend on Sunday, March 14. Being the guest of honor and speaker, the management in the conduct of the regional sports events wait for his arrival to grace the opening ceremonies.

For the lack of the needed sports facilities, Aklan will host this annual sports competition among the school youth of Western Visayas after 16 years. The last time Aklan hosted the WVRAA was in 1995. Thanks to the administration of Governor Carlito S. Marquez for devoting some amount for the rehabilitation, repair and development of the Calangcang Sports Complex in Makato. After this yearly sports events, these sports facilities will stay available for physical and mental development of the Aklanon youth. It will develop sportsmanship among our people particularly the youth. As Grantland Rice once said, "When the great scorer checks your name, he marks not that you won, or lost but how you played the game".

Sports is a gauge, as well, how far a nation has improved her economy. In 1964, Tokyo, Japan hosted the Olympics. After the games, her economy surged. In that year, the money conversion was 315 yen to one US dollar. Today, it is one US dollar to 107 yen.

In 1967, Spain was as reach as the Philippines but perhaps the poorest in Western Europe. Like the Filipinos of today, Spanish women went to its neighboring countries for seasonal jobs. Spain was not a member of the European Economic Community that time. Her money was called "peso". After the Barcelona Olympics, the Spanish economy improved. Today, Spain is as wealthy as any country of the European Union.

It is expected that the Province of Aklan will perform well in this WVRAA competitions, as the performance of the people in sports is parallel to their performance in economics and business.

Cited are the Philippines’ neighbor countries. Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Thailand appear more advanced than the Philippines in sports that they have also better economy than the Philippines. South Korea after hosting the Olympic Games in Seoul is now becoming a tiger economy. Today, it is so difficult to beat the South Koreans in basketball than 30 years ago when the South Koreans were the weeping boys of the Filipinos.

The performance of the Aklanon athletes including cultural is a good indicator as to how far the Province of Aklan has advanced both in sports and the economics in comparison with other provinces of Region VI or Western Visayas. /MP

Entrepreneurial Farmer

Ambrosio R. Villorente

Free Telephone

I wish to thank the Sazon Group of Enterprises through Mr. Cedric Sazon for providing the Media Center three (3) telephone lines with one internet connection in Calangcang, Makato, Aklan. These facilities will be used during the West Visayas Regional Athletic Association (WVRAA) Competition on March 14 – 19 free of charge.
Publicity Committee

One of the important committees assisting the Provincial Government of Aklan and DepEd in the conduct of the WRAA is the Publicity Committee which functions are carried out by all media outfits and journalists of Aklan.

The committee has three principal tasks which are: 1) to highlight potentials and achievements of athletes in the region through consistent, prompt and accurate accounts and report of schedules and results of various sports events, 2) to project the positive and favorable image of the Province of Aklan as host of the regional event as well as the accomplishments of its home grown athletes, and 3) to enhance and maintain the image of Aklan as a premier tourists destination through in-depth comprehensive coverage of the regional meet.

To carry out these functions, the finance committee of the provincial government of Aklan has recommended approval and finally approved by Gov. Marquez its budget. The Publicity Committee will work with a P150,000 appropriation.

This money will be used for the operation of the media center, office supplies, transportation and representation expenses of the broadcasters and writers pool including photographers. Thanks to Gov. Marquez and the Finance Committee for their approval of the budget. The finance committee members will be identified later. I might miss a name or two.

WVRAA Opening

WVRAA athletes will start competing on Sunday, March 14. However, the sports competition will officially open on Monday morning, March 15 with the presence of the guest of honor and speaker, former Secretary of National Defense Gilberto "Gibo" Teodoro, Jr.

Teodoro will arrive at 8:00 o’clock on Monday, march 15. He will be accompanied by Sen. Lito Lapid and two other senatorial candidates.

From the Kalibo Airport, Gibo and party will have a motorcade around Kalibo and then to Calangcang, Makato. After the opening ceremonies of WRAA, Gibo will take lunch at Café Latte, Kalibo. Lunch over, he will hold a press conference among Aklanon journalists and those from other provinces of Western Visayas.

Gibo will then meet the various sectors of Aklan society like the farmers, fishermen, women and youth groups. The meeting will take place in ABL sports complex, capitol ground, Kalibo

While waiting for Gibo, the guests and visitors will be entertained in the ABL Sports Complex by a famous singer "Andrew E". /MP

National Progress Through Sports WVRAA Competition Starts March 14

by ERNESTO T. SOLIDUM

Picture shows (l to r) Engr. Victory M. Fernandez, Dr. Benny Palma, and Ms. Mary Ann Lopez who are responsible officials in the preparation for the hosting of the WVRAA competition to be held on March 14 - 19 in Aklan.

Finally, there is cold relief that everything is set for the West Visayas Regional Athletic Association (WVRAA) meet to be held on March 14 – 19, 2010. Briefing on the readiness of physical infrastructure and calendar of activities were given during the weekly Kapehan on March 6, 2010 at Smokehauz Resto & Bar. Guests were Ms. Mary Ann Lopez, Educ. Supervisor DepEd in behalf of Dr. Larroza and Engr. Victory Fernandez, Aklan provincial engineer. Also present was Dr. Benny Palma, OIC President of ASU who has partnered with Gov. Carlito S. Marquez to develop its 6.8 hectares property in Calangcang, Makato into a Provincial Sports Center.

Dr. Ambrosio R. Villorente said that to excel in sports one has to engage in serious physical and mental disciplines not quite common to ordinary mortals. Vietnam wrecked by civil war until 1975 has proven its supremacy in recent Asean games. What they have dramatically accomplished in sports is also seen in business, industry, technology, and the arts. Motivating factor indicates national progress through sports competition.

Atty. Ronquillo C. Tolentino views that it is an honor to host the WVRAA for the first time. Mission of athletics is sportsmanship and to have a sound mind in a sound body.

Engr. Fernandez revealed that as of March 6, all physical infra that includes grandstand, swimming pool, oval track and supplemental structures are 95 percent completed. The finishing job by contractor is on putting lane markings on oval track, installation of air conditioning units on special rooms, widening of access/exit road, parking space and others. Bleachers could accommodate some 6,000 guests on opening day to witness one of Aklan’s spectacular events of the decade.

Audience will comprise of sports delegations from Iloilo, Capiz, Guimaras, Negros Occidental, Antique and Aklan’s supportive population.

Ms. Lopez said that as of this writing, advanced party from Iloilo have arrived in Aklan. Regional Screening Committee members are expected to come on March 7 in preparation for the hectic schedule ahead of them. The schedule of activities are: March 11 – ocular inspection/interview of athletes based on biodata, Evening Search for Mr. and Ms. Palaro; March 12 – orientation of delegation heads, arrival of games officials; March 14 – formal start of games; March 15 opening program; guest speaker: Hon. Gilbert Teodoro, Lighting of Urn, Parade, Evening, Pag abi-abi night; March 16-18 – Sports Com-petition; March 19 – closing program.

Accommodation of provincial athletic delegation and protocol are unchanged since December 2009 when WVRAA meet was originally scheduled on February 21 – 26 this year. However, venue of certain sporting events are revised to include Numancia and Bulwang Covered Courts for Sepak Takraw and Magsaysay Park (Kalibo) for boxing. Hospitality-wise, Ms. Lopez informed mediamen that 100 sets of beddings will be provided to each delegation instead of the usual 50.

Members of the tri-media will be given accommodation inside sports facility in Calangcang and Kalibo for better media mileage and immersion in the games. It is expected that news outfit from other provinces/cities will be on hand to collaborate with local journalists.

Putting up a provincial sports center especially at a time of global economic recession and budget deficits is one of outstanding accomplishments under the Marquez Administration. With work undertaken so far with the P45 million loan, facility appears substandard not to mention nipa roofing on main grandstand just to beat the deadline.

Indeed, more physical improvements for an all weather sports facility is needed like gymnastic equipment, boxing stadium and other appurtenances such as potable water, lighting, rest rooms, drainage and perimeter fencing. Because of the above compelling reasons, the provincial government must actively lobby within the Association to hold the same event next year at the present site. This has been done in the province of Antique before, thereby giving rise to their dream sports center.

Having 6,000 guests usually draw the attention of criminal syndicates and other bad elements who want to have a piece of the action. It would be expected that PNP authorities are pro-active since unsuspecting individuals are common targets. Since we are tourist-oriented (because of Boracay), vans, jeepneys and tricycle operators/drivers including hotels and inns must be asked to charge legal fees and be respectful to their customers. Simple courtesy we give them goes a long way to effective public relations.

Aklan Press Club, Inc. officers and members hereby congratulate the magnificent seven from the NVC Masscom and Community Broadcast Info System namely: Abegail Retorino, Richie Oloroso, Jeda Sale, Mutya Nallas, Yahly Castillo, Roben P. Laserna and Ronel Irodistan. Reason is their hurdling the accreditation examination, Kapisanan ng mga brodkaster sa Pilipinas given on January 30, 2010 at ASU, Banga, Aklan.

Scramble to reach the apex of sports fame and fortune is open to all young athletes. Sadly, they never endure over the long term. Dr. Gabriel Delfin, Dean, Institute of Public Policy, NVC notes however, that the ideal program is really physical, mental, and emotional training for life. Journey starts from infancy to adulthood where proper coaching and discipline are nurtured. Here trans-formation is permanent and success comes out easy in weathering any kind of crisis. /MP

Backyard Electricity Production

The picture above shows the Modular CHP Biopower System, automated, environmentally friendly CHP biopower system for on-site power and heat using an industrial, spark ignited gas engine/generator and fueled by woody biomass residues. It fits well for backyard electricity production.

As explained by Mr. Cory J. Coppage, managing director of Asia Pacific Energy Resources, Biomass 100 is containerized, easy to maintain for outdoor operation, fully automatic startup, operation and shutdown. It has controlled monitor over internet, self clearing gasifier, gas coaling and autochar/ash removal system, no liquid affluent, no toxic waste, combined heat and power, integrated wood chip drier and transportable.

Biomax 100 can produce 100 kWe plus heat. The fuel conversion is one (1) kilogram of wood chips per kWe.

The features of the Modular CHP Biopower System was explained in a symposium held in the afternoon of Wednesday, March 10 at the NVC conference room. The NVC students, faculty, with Atty. Allen S. Quimpo and EVP Erlinda Q. Fernandez Wilson attended the presentation. Some private sector representatives were also present.

Mr. Cory J. Coppage was assisted by Mr. Michael West and Ms. Perla Manapol in presenting the containerized Biomas 100. /MP

Candidates Vow To Protect Peace

To maintain the peace in Aklan, the provincial candidates for the Province of Aklan and the Municipality of Kalibo for the May 10, 2010 local election signed a peace pact called "Peace Covenant". The ceremony was held in the Saint John the Baptist Cathedral, Kalibo, Aklan on March 10.

The ceremonies started with a Holy Sacrament of the mass at 8:00 o’clock in the morning officiated by the Diocesan Administrator of the Diocese of Kalibo Very Rev. Father Ulysses I. Dalida.

After the Holy Mass, the singing of the Philippine National Anthem followed led by Ms. Eleanor D. Reyes of IBC – DYRG. Mr. Augusto C. Tolentino, KBP Chairman – Aklan Chapter welcomed the candidates, guests, and visitors.

The execution of peace covenant followed with the swearing led by Very Rev. Father Ulysses I. Dalida. The candidates vowed to "uphold the fundamental principle of democracy, that sovereignty resides in the people and all government authority emanates from them (people)". That they "believe that the exercise of suffrage is a solemn act of sovereignty," that they "bind themselves to the truth that the ballot is an expression of the sovereign will and it is sacred."

That they, will "not impose their will upon the (voters) by way of intimidation or in any manner, destroy (the voters’) power and freedom of choice. They committed to their fellow candidates to "conduct their campaign by law and the rules in the spirit of good grace and friendly rivalry; to devote themselves their qualification, platform and program of government."

They asked in the political battlefield that is fair, with courage to strive, and win by the code with heads and honor held high. If they lose, let them stand by the road and cheer as the winners pass by.

Simultaneously with the signing of the Peace Covenant were the brief speeches of the candidates for vice mayor and mayor of Kalibo, candidates for vice governor, governor and congressman of Aklan.

Messages were also given by the representative of Police Chief Supt. Isagani R. Cuevas, PNP Regional Director, and Atty. Dennis L. Ausan – Regional Election Director. Dr. Ambrosio R. Villorente of the Aklan Press Club, Inc. gave the closing remarks. He thanked the sponsors of the peace covenant and the candidates who participated in the ceremonies.

Those who participated are municipal candidates for sangguniang bayan who are Edgar Inguillo Aranas, Erlinda Sarabia Belayro, Reygie Abello Bongabong, Rogelio Apolonio Concep-tion, Emmett Legaspi Custodio, Emmanuel Soviet Russia Aguirre Dela Cruz, Darius Inocencio Demogina, Ariel Oñas Fernandez, Hospicio Urbano Indadaño, Freddie Enriquez Jizmundo, Sr., Peter Jene Nidua Lao, Ronald Lachica Marte, Bert Cipriano Melgarejo, Guadillo Zapico Morales, Rodillo Lachica Policarpio, George Lumbad Quimpo, Randy Anthony Acevedo Rebaldo, Jodel Bantigue Rentillo, Ronce Malic Reyes, Jovito Reyes Sarabia, Andrewlini Dumalaog Sualog, Cristanciano Ang Suarez, III, Edgar Gonzales Suerte Felipe, Mark Mitchell Celiz Sy, Nilda Buyoc Tambong, Ervie Sarabia Taytayon, Arnaldo Macavinta Tejada, Buencamino Fernandez Villanueva, Roberto delos Santos Villanueva, and Pacifico Layson Villanueva.

Those for Vice Mayor are Gregorio Reyes Malapad, Roberto Aglubat Mejes, Madeline Ang Regalado, and Emmanuel Labor Sodusta. For the Mayoralty candidates are Pablo Dela Cruz Beltran, Efren Quimpo Fernande, William Sucgang Lachica, and Mark Vega Quimpo.

Those for Sang-guniang Panlalawigan (Eastern District) are Daisy Sucro Briones, Rodson Fojas Mayor, Nemesio Patron Neron, Vicente Mariano Macabales Pador, Raymar Acevedo Rebaldo, Santiago Del Rosario Regalado, Jean Oquendo Rodriguez, Rizal Gonzales Rodriguez, Jr., Lillian Quimpo Tirol, and Alita Abiera Venus. (Western District) – Phoebe Clarice Legaspi Cabagnot, Victor Manuel Monfort Garcia, Ramon Sucgang Gelito, Selwyn Candelario Ibarreta, Dominador Yerro Ilio, Jr., Romeo Palomar Inocencio, Jose Enrique Martin Miraflores, Nelia Delos Reyes Sancho, Dino Patrick Villanueva Ta-ay, and Gerick Maribojo Templonuevo.

Those for Vice Governor are Gabrielle Venus Calizo-Quimpo, and Roberto Monfort Garcia, Jr. For the Governor are Anthony Yu Acevedo, Carlito Samson Marquez, and Leovigildo Terencio Mationg. There is only one candidate for Congressman who is Florencio Tumbocon Miraflores. /MP

Makato Candidates For May 2010 Elections

The official candidates in Makato, Aklan for the May 10, 2010 elections for Mayor, Vice Mayor, and Sangguniang Bayan members are as follows:

There are two candidates for Mayor who are Ramon Salazar Legaspi, Jr. – LK CMD; Virgilita Mationg Pamatian – I, and Venerando Tumbagahan Tayco - I.

There are two candidates for Vice Mayor who are Nerli Fermalino Dela Cena – LK CMD; Reynaldo Tejada Gonzales – I.

There are 24 candidates for the eight positions of SB members. They are Allan Tabernilla Aquino – I, Rexes Murias Custodio – LK CMD, Andrew James Ureta Dela Cruz – I, Bobby Clyde Maravilla Legaspi – NP, Melchor Almero Nicolas – I, Jonathan Esquerra Reyes – I, Apollo Villanueva Roldan – LK CMD, Marcosa Torda Rusia – I, Basilides Tagle Tabernilla – LK CMD, Ermito Tejada Tabigue – LK CMD, Francisco Diego Tampos, Jr. – I, Nelson Torcuator Tapuz – LK CMD, Salvador Policarpio Tenazas – I, Oriel Timtiman Tesorero – I, Alexis Tapleras Togoto, Sr. – I, Felipe Ortega Torda – I, Renato Totol Tordecillas – LK CMD, Danilo Roldan Torre, Jose Danilo Maayon Torrenueva – LK CMD, Estanislao Mabubay Tubao – I, Gary Prado Tubera – I, Rosalie Tenaja Tumbokon – I, and Silmar Umiten Valencia – I. /MP

Political Front

Villar Vows Reforms VS Power Crisis

Nacionalista Party (NP) standard-bearer Manny Villar vowed to work for the full and immediate privatization of all National Power Corp. (Napocor) power plants and power purchase agreements as a major step to solve the country’s energy problems particularly in Mindanao.

"Fully implement the Electric Power Industry Reform Act (EPIRA) law which provides for the full privatization of Napocor’s power plants, as well as all PPAs. This is priority A-1 under my presidency," Villar said.

He explained that the power situation in Mindanao continues to worsen because the government has been unable to institute measures to bring in investments in the power sector.

The last power plant that was opened in Mindanao was in 2007 when a coal-fired plant in Villanueva, Misamis Oriental was inaugurated.

Other proposed power plants like the 42.5-megawatt (MW) hydropower plant in Sibulan, Davao del Sur and the 27-MW Tamugan hydropower plant in Davao City will still take years before coming on-stream, while a 200-MW coal-fired plant in Maasim, Sarangani is expected to start operations by 2012.

"Mindanao continues to labor under a lack of investments in its power sector. This has discouraged many investors from setting up factories and economic zones in the region. I intend to pave the way for these investors to come in and generate economic activity and jobs in the region," Villar said.

At the same time, the NP presidential candidate pledged to prioritize the development of alternative energy in the country by creating pilot sites in Mindanao.

"I will task agencies like the Departments of Energy, Agriculture and Science and Technology to draw up an alternative energy master plan and develop pilot projects in Mindanao," Villar said.

"We have to create a framework for our future energy supply for sustainable economic growth. We will assure a stable and affordable supply of power that can transform Mindanao into a truly viable investment center in Southeast Asia," he added.

At the same time, Villar said the development of alternative energy will lessen the country’s dependence on imported oil.

In 2007, oil accounted for 55.9 percent of the country’s energy demand followed by coal at 23.9 percent), gas (12.4 percent) and hydro electric energy (7.8 percent).

The power supply in Mindanao continues to worsen as the shortage has now hit 358 MW, according to the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines (NGCP).

Save for Davao City, which still has adequate power supply, most provinces in Mindanao are now experiencing rotating brownouts of between four to eight hours.
　

NGCP data showed that the available capacity on the island was now only 842 MW as against peak demand of 1,200 MW.

AFTER ADS AND RIBBONS,
WILL YOU IMITATE MY HAIRSTYLE NEXT?

Copycat Moves Flatter Aquino

After seeing his ads and campaign materials imitated by the rival camp, Liberal Party standard bearer Senator Noynoy Aquino predicts Sen. Manny Villar may soon imitate even his hairstyle.

Aquino noted in Cebu City that orange ribbons similar to his yellow ribbons had been tied to posts along some roads there. Orange is Villar’s campaign color.

Aquino said this was aside from new ads of Villar imitating Aquino’s vow.

Aquino has, on occasion, poked fun at himself over his hairstyle, once likening it to the country’s vanishing forest cover during a presidential forum in Makati City.

He made light of the situation, however, calling the copycat moves "the sincerest form of flattery."

Still, he added he will not be surprised if Villar comes out with a song similar to "Tie a Yellow Ribbon."

On the other hand, Aquino also hurled similar "copycat" accusations against President Arroyo, this time for imitating the late strong man Ferdinand Marcos.

RIGHT OF AQUINO SISTERS
REMULLA’S TIRADE BETRAYS SEXIST MINDSET

As a reaction, Congresswoman Risa Hontiveros, a senatorial candidate said that the Aquino sisters have every right to speak on the Hacienda Luisita issue because the family has been dragged into it by rivals of LP standard bearer Noynoy Aquino.

"To say therefore that Sen. Noynoy is hiding behind the skirts of his sisters is scurrilous and betrays a sexist mindset," the Akbayan partylist representative, Hontiveros said.

"Not that they need defending, but the Aquino sisters are parties in interest, however small their shares are, in the Hacienda. Like the other shareholders, these women too have a voice in whatever plans are being presented on the table," Hontiveros pointed out.

Hontiveros said that Cavite Rep. Boying Remulla has been consistently attacking the Aquino family, and has not spared even former President Aquino from
his baseless tirades.

If Remulla claims to have the evidence against Sen. Aquino and his family, then the right thing to do is to file the complaint in the proper forum, she said.

"Unlike his principal, I am sure that Sen. Noynoy and his sisters are ready to face any complaint of unethical conduct or betrayal of the public trust," Hontiveros added. /MP

Sugilanon Ni Tita Linda

Tita Linda Belayro

Ro Bugaeon Nga Abogado

Isaeang ka bangkero it baroto si Tonyo. Guina swelduhan imaw it munisipyo sa pagdapit ag paghatod adlaw-adlaw sa mga pasahero sa rondayang isla. Tanan ro mga estudyante, trabahador, negosyante ag mga ginikanan hay nailaan guid imaw sa anang pag serbisyo sa mga tawo. Owa imaw naga pakita it pagka suplado maskin gina gaoy eon imaw, maskin gabi-i eon nga dapat nana ipahuway. Padayon gihapon ro pagtabok it mga tawo sa tanan nga oras.

Isaeang adlaw, may bag-ong tapos sa pagka abogado ro anang guina hatod sa isla. Naka suksok pa it Amerikana ag naka Samsonite pa nga bag ro eaeaki.

Samtang naga bugsay si Tonyo, nangutana ro abogado kay Tonyo. "Antiguhan ka baea it matematika? Pangutana it abogado. "Sori guid sir, mahina guid ako karon", mapainubuson nga sabat ni Tonyo.

"Hay sa history, may sayod ka baea? Dugang pa ko abogado. "Mas pa guid ron sir, permi abi ako nga naga palta kato sa klase tongod owa ako it guina plete sa saeakyan", sabat eon man ni Tonyo.

"Ay abaw… Toto, mga singkwenta porsyento eot-a ro naduea sa imong kabuhi. Hay siguro sa Science may hasayran ka eon. "Royon pa ro owa guid ako it naalung-ongan ay owa man abi ako it libro agud basahon. Naga dungok nga sabat ni Tonyo.

"Kon imaw ron, 25 porsyento eon lang ro habilin ko imong kabuhi. Nag panting ro dueonggan ni Tonyo. Matsa habatyagan man ko rondayang bugaeon nga abogado.
Pag-abot nanda sa madauem nga lugar it suba, nag pangutana si Tonyo. "Sir, kaantiguhan ka baea mag eangoy? Dayon tinikwang ni Tonyo ro baroto ag nahueog ro abogado. Indi gali kaantiguhan imaw mag eangoy.

"Sori sir, sanggatos porsyento ro naduea sa imong kabuhi. Pag dumdum ko tanan ro kaaeaman hay una kimo. Ro simpleng pag eangoy owa mo gali hatun-i? Naga kapay-kapay ro alima ko abogado. Bu-ot mag-padawat. Sa kaeo-oy ni Tonyo, ana nga guin dawat ro alima it abogado, anang guin hakwat ag ibalik sa baroto. Nangayo kana it pasensya ro guina eamig ag naga kibig-kibig sa kahadluk nga abogado.

Leksyon: Indi naton paghusgahan o pagmata-matahum ro ibang tawo. May mga butang nga hasayran it iba nga owa naton masayuri. Una eon kimo ro tanan nga kaaeaman ogaling hadiskubre nimo ro mga ordinaryo nga kaaeam nga owa nimo matun-i ag rondayon hay makita sa ordinaryong tawo eamang. /MP

Two Regions ‘Efficiently Use’ OFW Money

by JEREMAIAH M. OPINIANO

The Philippine regions with higher growth rates used remittances for development efficiently, an economist of the University of Santo Tomas finds in her study.

According to Assistant Dean Ma. Socorro Calara of the College of Commerce, these are the Cordillera Administrative Region, Southern Tagalog Region, and the National Capital Region. Her study cited these regions are more efficient in making remittances contributing to the regional productivity, which is measured by gross regional domestic product or GRDP.

Calara’s paper was featured at a research forum on time when government officials said that the overall gross domestic product of 0.92 percent in 2009 was the lowest in 11 years.

Titled "Remittances and Regional Performance for the Philippines," Calara’s paper looked at data from the triennial Family Income and Expenditures Survey (FIES) from 1988 to 2006.

Using FIES results in the same period, Calara also culled data on cash received from abroad or remittances received by households of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).

These were then juxtaposed to GRDP data, as well as regional data on personal consumption and government spending, and investments from 1998 to 2006.

Calara’s econometric calculations showed that the highest efficiency score is one. The NCR, CAR and Southern Tagalog consistently earned that score.

The next highest scores in Calara’s computations went to Central Visayas (0.99); Davao region and Western Visayas (both 0.98); and, Zamboanga and Northern Mindanao Regions (both 0.97).

The scores reflected how remittances migrant households received seeped in efficiently or not to regional develop-ment activities.

Even if regions such as Ilocos (0.69 average), Cagayan Valley (0.79) and Central Luzon (0.91) got more remittances, they had more overseas migrants and more remittances than other regions, these regions are in the bottom rungs in Calara’s study.

Ilocos is even the least efficient region of all 17 regions covered by the study, while Central Luzon is only 10th overall.

Calara argued that her study is valuable to regional development since it is in the birthplaces of overseas Filipinos where the remittances are used to stir local economic activity.

"The (household members) of migrants are the immediate recipients of remittances. Whether these remittances are spent to purchase basic commodities, durable goods or are invested in productive endeavors, it is the region which benefits from such activities —whether directly or indirectly through the multiplier effect of remittances and the subsequent stimulus to labor," Calara pointed out.

Calara’s paper also looked at how many of the 14 regions with data which are efficient in development, with and without remittances.

She came into the latter result by deducting a region’s remittances data GRDP and regional personal consumption expenditure.

Since some regions were already efficient, Calara wrote that remittances "do not contribute to efficiency" and "have no effect on [that region’s] regional efficiency performance".

CAR, Southern Tagalog and NCR are parts of this grouping. But in eight (8) of the 14 regions found to be inefficient in 2006, Calara said the results may mean that remittances may have had a positive effect, had no effect, or have a negative effect on regional development.

As for NCR and regions near it, Calara observed that the sending of more overseas workers complements high government spending and investments in these places.

Yet on the overall, Calara said the paper "showed mixed results with respect to the effect of remittances on the regional performance of the Philippines".

At the same time, the multiplier effect of remittances in rural areas is higher than those in urban regions, Calara’s computations showed.

Estimates using the 2000, 2003 and 2006 FIES data revealed that some 1.107 million households of migrant workers got P208.848 billion in 2000.

The number of households increased by 18.34 percent after three years to 1.31 million and having received some P245.856-billion worth of remittances.

The 2006 FIES showed the number of households increased by 22.2 percent, having received some P348.524 billion.

By percentage share to the national total, all regions outside of NCR have been getting increased remittances: 71.56 percent in 2000, 76.58 percent in 2003, and 78.89 percent in 2006.

Among provincial regions, Southern Tagalog (to include sub-regions Calabarzon [or Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon] and Mimaropa [Mindoro Occidental, Mindoro Oriental, Romblon, and Palawan]) are the top-most recipients of remittances from abroad, followed by Central Luzon and the Ilocos Region.

Data from the National Statistical Coordination Board show that Southern Tagalog (combining Calabarzon and Mimaropa) contribute some 14 percent to Philippine GDP. /MP

Tacurong Rivals Guimaras Mango*

by MEDIATRIX P. CRISTOBAL

* A reprint from Horticulture and Aquaculture, A compilation of success stories published by the Department of Science and Technology. Book 4 - 2008. First of two (2) parts.

What used to be seasonal mangoes are now harvested the year round. Which is more than what Sultan Kudarat aspires for, to make making the province one of the biggest mango producers in the region if not the whole country and giving the famous Guimaras mango a run for its money.

"Here in Koronadal, you see mango the year round," said Darlene Marquez, Agriculture Director of the Sultan Kudarat Polytechnical State College (SKPSC). "Farmers learned from our training programs on induced production and they now harvest mango all year."

Marquez heads the polytechnic’s Mango Project which started in 1995. Now 12 years later, the SKPSC is virtually a brand name when it comes to sourcing quality mango seedlings and plantlets this side of Mindanao.

With support from the Department of Science and Technology’s (DOST) Small Enterprises Technology Upgrading Program (SET-UP), the Mango Project has managed to carve a niche for itself in less than a decade.

SET-UP is a DOST initiative to help aspiring entrepreneurs succeed in their businesses.

With a start up fund from SET-UP of P52,000, a small mango clonal nursery was established inside the campus. This has expanded into the Mango Comprehensive Technological Program.

Today, the small nursery situated in a corner of a vast and idle savanna-like area along the highway in Tacurong City has evolved into the Mango Breeding and Development Center. As demand from farmers for seeds and plantlets – as well as technical expertise – grew, the Center continually tries to improve techniques in mango breeding.

The Center now has value-added services, from technical assistance to mango planters to training to more research and development. The demand started to pour in, Marquez she said, as farmers wanted more plantlets and technical assistance. As the Center started to profit, it also went into more R&D.

Currently. Marquez said, the Center is focusing on mango plant production "to meet the huge demand" and is now propagating a wide choice of excellent varieties of carabao, talaban and labao mangoes – and even the famous Guimaras mango variety that gets high approval rating from local farmers.

Clients come mostly from Mindanao, especially Regions 11 and 12 and the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao. Most of them came to know of the Mango Breeding and Development Center through referrals from previous clients who now make up a wide network of mango farmers in the region.

Words spread among the farmers of Tacurong and nearby provinces. The demand for mango plantlets multiplied and farmers clamored for training in improved mango production.

"Our clients keep on coming back for technical assistance and other agriculture-related matters," Marquez said. "As a way of giving back what DOST gave us, we see to it that our doors are always open."

The provincial govern-ment also commended the mango breeding project as it is aligned with its ambitious flagship program of making Sultan Kudarat the region’s biggest mango producer and fruit basket.

The SKPSC also promotes high-value crops including calamansi, corn, rice, banana and other fruits. It has linked with the Department of Agriculture and local cooperatives in popularizing mango and fruit production.

A plantlet costs about P12 to P15 – depending on the variety – and earnings vary depending on the demand. From January to June last year, the project generated about P25,000. But more important, the project spurred the development of other plant-breeding projects such as the nearby Anthurium garden that yields beautiful varieties with colors ranging from orange and yellow to red and green.

"Our clients trust us because we have research component," Marquez pointed out. "We never give them a bad crop. Our quality products in fact carry the name of the school."

That is true as the SKSPC stamp identifies quality plantlets as coming from the SKPSC Mango Breeding and Development Center. The DOST continues to support the Center by continuously sending experts as resource persons during training seminars. Information kits and other reading materials on mango production are also distributed to farmers.

"A lot of the farmers wanted regular training on how to run a mango production business more efficiently," Marquez recalled. "So we started conducting monthly trainings. Sometimes we visit their farms so we can make customized evaluation and assessments on particular issues, say pest management. We are living up to the purpose that this project is geared up on improving mango production in the region," she pointed. "We continue to research on how to further improve our production."

Farmers, she added, "also look up to as their agricultural consultant. Upon their request, we continually assist them in mango production."

Mango trees take five years to mature and eventually yield harvest. Just like any other fruit trees, mango had been a staple in food processing industry where it is converted into juice, candies, and now even wine – all with a potentially big global market.

In the Philippines, mangoes are widely planted in the island province of Guimaras. But plant breeders at the SKPSC Mango Breeding and Development Center know that the fertile plateau and mild climate of Sultan Kudarat could compete with Guimaras by propagating a wider variety and strain of quality mangoes.

Already, the food giant Dole Philippines has signified field interest in contract growing for farmers to supply mangoes.

As Marquez would like to point, it has all been worth effort. /MP

Sweet Sorghum As Food And Fuel Source

Sweet sorghum is now being tapped and developed by agro-entrepreneurs as a viable source of food, fuel, feeds, and fertilizer, according to agriculture officials. They bared two local agribusiness companies　that have started processing this versatile crop into various uses for large-scale commercial ventures in the next two to three years.

These two firms—Hazchem and Venvi Agro Industrial Ventures Inc. have established their respective plantations and structures to develop sweet sorghum for commercial uses, according to the Bureau of Agricultural Research (BAR) of the Department of Agriculture (DA).

Dr. Heraldo Layaoen, the national program coordinator for the DA-BAR sweet sorghum project, reported that these agribusiness companies have begun using sweet sorghum, which requires minimal time and cost to produce, as feed ingredient and are now testing it as feedstock for ethanol production.

Layaoen said that Hazchem has set up a 5.4-hectare plantation in Naujan, Oriental Mindoro. It acquires a juice concentrator, mobile can crusher and fermentation tanks to conduct trials on sweet sorghum from planting to distillation.

Venvi Agro, which operates the biggest feedmill is the largest supplier of fresh eggs in the Ilocos Region. It is testing sweet sorghum as a livestock and poultry feed.

BAR has funded nine multi-locational trials of sweet sorghum 　with the support of 　local govern-ment units (LGUs) financing institutions, said Layaoen in his report.

The DA and Pampanga Agricultural College (PAC) has likewise launched a book on the human food potentials of sweet sorghum as part of government efforts to promote the production and consumption of alternative high-value commercial crops.

The BAR-funded "Sweet Sorghum Food Products: A Com-pendium" was written by three PAC professors—Doctors Estrella Zabala, Fortunato Battad and Norman de Jesus. They officially launched the book during a recent Bureau program attended by former DA Sec. Arthur Yap, BAR Director Nicomedes Eleazar, DA Assistant Secretary Clayton Olalia and PAC President Honorio Soriano.　

Eleazar said "the book contains food products from the sweet sorghum grains and stalks highlighting food products from sweet sorghum, of which 24 come from grains and one from the stalk." The book also includes valuable information such as guide planting sweet sorghum, forms of utilization, nutritional contents, and suggested sweet sorghum menu.　

"Sweet sorghum is a promising cereal crop that could address problems on malnutrition and dwindling supply of alternative source of flour, an answer to the increasing cost of wheat flour," Eleazar said. Zabala, a food technologist, developed the various food products from sweet sorghum, with Battad and de Jesus providing the technical support.

Sorghum grains, according to Eleazar, are processed into flour and used as a substitute or main material of the products either as whole grain, sprout, or in ground form.

Among the potential food products developed include soups and porridge (mushroom in sorghum soup, sorghum soup, veggie-sorghum soup, sorghum porridge with chicken, sorghum porridge, sorghum-choco porridge, pepper leaves in sorghum, and sorghum con moringa).

Aside from the grains, PAC has developed vinegar from the sweet sorghum stalks.
Soriano stressed that "sweet sorghum has a huge potential as source of human food in various forms of high commercialization value. Its grains can be processed and used as alternative to rice."

In terms of production, "sweet sorghum can be grown throughout the year or at least twice a year. It needs minimal time and cost compared to other field crops. It is the only crop that provides grain and stem, which can be used to produce ethanol, sugar syrup, jaggery, flour and other food items," Soriano added.

Sweet sorghum grain is higher in protein and lower in fat than corn. The mineral composition differs only slightly from corn. Vitamin content is similar to that of white corn. A 200 grams of cooked sorghum grain is a rich source of protein, vitamin B1, B2, niacin, and iron. It is a good source of zinc, and provides 14 grams of dietary fiber. /MP

Binay To Fight Garlic Smuggling

Makati Mayor Jojo Binay vowed to put a stop to the unabated smuggling of garlic that is hurting the farmers of Ilocos Sur and Ilocos Norte, the country’s primary producers of the cash crop.　

In Vigan, Binay explained in a radio interview that the rampant smuggling of garlic deprives the national coffers of millions of pesos in potential revenue, which can be tapped to finance various local government projects.　

Binay promised to help the farmers to protect the P600-million garlic industry. 　

An estimate by Alyansa Agrikultura shows that as much as P10 billion in tax revenue is lost due to smuggling of vegetables products, including garlic. 　

Some 926,640 kilos of fresh vegetables were smuggled into the country in 2003 alone, and 716,000 kilos of which were garlic, while the total garlic imports reached 18,000 tons during the same period with a value of $3.7 million.

　
Region 1 is the top producer of garlic in the country. In 2008, over 70 percent of the total volume of garlic produced in the country came from the Ilocos region, with Ilocos Norte providing the largest production yield.　 　

Farmers have repeatedly appealed to the Arroyo administration to minimize the importation of garlic along with onion which, coupled with smuggling, continued to drive down the prices of these two agricultural crops in the market.　

Smuggled garlic is cheaper than the locally-produced garlic because it evades the usual 40-percent tariff imposed by the Bureau of Customs.　/MP

EDITORIAL

COMELEC To Examine NP–NPC

Coalition Legitimacy

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has taken cognizance of the Liberal Party’s opposition to the bogus coalition between the Nacionalista Party (NP) and the Nationalist People’s Coalition (NPC).

The Comelec en banc had agreed to look into the LP’s assertion that the NP-NPC alliance was a "coalition in afterthought" formed merely to subvert the Liberals’ application to be named as the dominant minority party in the May 10 national and local elections.

In setting a hearing on the LP petition on Tuesday (March 9), the Comelec temporarily set aside the issue of which political party should be accredited as the dominant minority party, a status being contested by both the LP and the NP.

"This is a success for the people’s fight for truth, for reforms, and for good governance. The Liberal Party will never waver in its commitment to stick to the rule of law," LP Director General Chito Gascon said as he reiterated confidence on the Comelec’s integrity and competence.

Gascon insisted the NP and its allies in the NPC twisted existing rules in its attempt to outwit the Comelec into approving their fake alliance, noting how leaders of both parties suitably included the petition for registration of the NP-NPC Coalition in its petition for accreditation for the dominant minority status.

He pointed out the two parties’ leaders and lawyers knew very well that their belated idea of coalescing would no longer be entertained by the Comelec if it was filed independently since the deadline for the registration of political parties and coalitions had already lapsed in August last year.

Also, he noted reports quoting Pangasinan Rep. Mark Cojuangco that the merger was never approved by his father, businessman and NPC founder Eduardo "Danding’ Cojuangco, and other party members and that NPC Chairman Faustino Dy inked the coalition agreement with NP unilaterally.

He likewise cited how NP and NPC leaders failed to address the conflicting candidacies of their members in the local levels – clear proof that the phony alliance was done haphazardly and without consultation with party members. NP and NPC members are up against each other in 15 congressional seats, five (5) gubernatorial and 8 vice-gubernatorial posts and 78 mayoralty posts.

　He cited as example the congressional seat in the 5th District of Iloilo province, where incumbent Vice Gov. Rolex T. Suplico of the NP will be pitted against NPC’s Raul S. Alba. The situation is the same in Davao del Sur, where incumbent Rep. Marc Douglas Cagas (NP) and Erwin Llanos (NPC) will slug it out for the province’s 1st congressional district.

Roxas Shocks NP

　NP spokesman and senatorial bet Adel Tamano shot back at LP vice-presidential bet Mar Roxas for mocking NP standard-bearer Manny Villar’s orange campaign color by maliciously associating it with the Cebu dancing inmates.

While Tamano was not dismayed by Roxas’ swipe, he was "shocked at how Roxas, can carelessly pass judgment on people."

During LP’s political rally in Cebu, Roxas was quoted as saying: "The number of dancing inmates will rise. Anyway, they are like the guy in orange, and so all the wrongdoers should stay together. All the wrongdoers and the crooked, we will put inside the provincial jail."

In reaction, Tamano said inmates are still Filipinos and have some rights that must be respected and protected.

"The law cites that people are innocent until proven guilty. Most inmates are still awaiting trial and as such cannot be loosely called criminals, wrongdoers or crooked," he said.

"Even convicted criminals do not deserve to be dragged into this political mudslinging that our rivals seem to have elevated into an art and focal point of their campaign and platform," added Tamano.

The Comelec reported that at least 23,657 detainees are eligible to vote in 414 facilities of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology. This represents 43 percent of the total 54,866-detainee population. /MP

Entrepreneurial Farmer

Ambrosio R. Villorente

Mocking the Farmers

The municipality of Kalibo has prepared a supplemental budget worth about P4.2 million. The proposal was included in the agenda discussed during the March 4 SB session.

The big chunk of the P4.2 million is being appropriated for the purchase of tables, chairs, air condition units, and computers. A minute amount of P20,000.00 is recommended expenditure for food security. The P20,000.00 after spending it is expected to increase food production by 50 percent.

This is a miracle when it happens! What can you buy with P20,000.00? That is good for 20 bags of commercial fertilizer. But it is surely not enough to purchase one unit of 4-inch irrigation pump. Can P20,000 budget increase food production by 50 percent over the previous season?

What A Mockery!

This is mocking the farmers and fisherfolks. May this P4.2 million be program to provide a bigger budget for food production.

How can LGU Kalibo mitigate the negative effects of El Niño? With P20,000?
But according to Hon. Soviet Russia Dela Cruz, the Municipal Agricultural office has not spent all its 2009 budget. Why appropriate more funds when the officials concerned has not spent all?

Wow! What is the LGU agricultural produc-tivity program? Its Vulgan Hatchery project in Pook is not functioning. Is it? What is the reason why that project is not functioning?

Are the rice, corn and vegetable areas provided with irrigation facilities? No. That money could have been expended to provide irrigation facilities to the cropland and make the Vulgan hatchery project operational.

Force Resignation

Those government officials who have filed their certificate of candidacy has the prime duty to resign from their present position.

Their resignation will be in compliance with the Supreme Court ruling "ordering appointed officials seeking elective posts in the May 10 national and local elections to immediately resign from their posts".

How many of our officials in Aklan are affected by this Supreme Court decision? If they are covered they must resign now.

If they have not resigned clinging to their positions, what shall we call them? Greedy for power? Are they rude? Are they disobedient to legal orders?

For those Aklanons concerned or covered by this supreme court order, they have no recourse but to resign. /MP

Aklan Prepares WVRAA Meet

Aklan Gov. Carlito S. Marquez, center, responding to some questions regarding the preparation of Aklan as host of the West Visayas Regional Athletic Competition scheduled on March 14 - 19. Others in the picture (l to r) are Ms. Mary Ann Lopez, Vice Gov. Gabrielle V. Calizo-Quimpo, Provincial Police Director Epifanio Bragais, Jr., and Aklan Asst. Schools Division Superintendent Radne B. Jomuad.

Host Aklan to the annual West Visayas Regional Athletic Association (WVRAA) Competition reviewed its preparation made for the fast approaching WVRAA competition on March 14 - 19. The meeting was held in Gov. Corazon L. Cabagnot Tourism & Training Center, Buswang Old, Kalibo on Tuesday, March 2. Presided by Gov. Carlito S. Marquez, each chair of the various committees in charge in the preparation of the venues of the games and cultural competition reported.
Engr. Victory M. Fernandez, provincial engineer and responsible for the construction and repair of sports facilities reported the percentage of accomplishment. According to him, the sports complex will be 100 percent ready for the games by March 12.
Ms. Mary Ann Lopez of DepEd Aklan reported the schedule of activities and the housing of various city and provincial delegations. /MP