Mexico’s Last Chance To Avenge VS Pacquiao Rests On Margarito’s Fists

by ALEX P. VIDAL

BOSTON, Massachusetts – On his way to stardom, Manny Pacquiao pummeled into submission almost all marquee names Mexico could offer and never turned his back since erasing them all from the face of earth.

The elite list includes Emmanuel Lucero (TKO 3), Hector Velasquez (TKO 6), Gabriel Mira (TKO 4), Oscar Larios (UD 12), Jorge Solis (KO 8), Marco Antonio Barrera (TKO 11 and UD 12), Erik Morales (TKO 10 and KO 3), and Juan Manuel Marquez D 12 and SD 12).

They never saw the light in a wholesale massacre never felt before in the sport governed by the Marquis of Queensberry rules.

After being bludgeoned in contrasting but brutal fashions in championship matches one after the other, some of these prominent Mexican fighters retired or became admirers of the 31-year-old Pacquiao (51-3-2, 38 KO), who is currently the World Boxing Organization (WBO) welterweight titlist.

Two other Hispanic mestizos itching to take a piece of Pacquiao were Mexican-Americans Oscar De La Hoya and David Diaz, who donned the U.S. flag in the Olympics have also been unsuccessful.
　

HUMILIATED

They didn’t only suffer defeats, they were humiliated – De La Hoya, touted as the "Golden Boy" and America’s darling of the press, quitting on his stool in the 8th stanza on December 6, 2008 in a light middleweight brawl that exposed him as a washed up; and Diaz falling like a sack of potatoes in the 9th round to yield his WBC lightweight crown on June 28, 2008 both in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Promoters had to shop for customers in Great Britain, Africa and Puerto Rico when Mexico could not tame the brown bomber from the East who started his professional career as a scrawny light flyweight (108-lb) prospect with a not-so-explosive points win over Edmund Enting Ignacio in Mindoro, Philippines on January 22, 1995.

Thus came Ricky Hatton, Miguel Angel Cotto, and Joshua Clottey, who were all blown to bits.

Pacquiao’s homicidal rampage appeared to have alarmed the most celebrated and most expensive prizefighter in the world today, Floyd Mayweather Jr., who refused to mix it up with the boxer turned lawmaker despite repeated intercessions from Top Rank chief Bob Arum.
　

HARD-HITTING
　

This paved the way for Antonio Margarito, another hard-hitting Mexican champion who recently made headlines after having been caught loading his fists with plaster of paris before a fatal 9th round demolition loss to Shane Mosley for the WBA welterweight rumble at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California on January 24, 2009. 　

Margarito (38-6, 27 KO), a two-time 147-lb world champion, could be Mexico’s last hope to avenge the slaughter of all his compatriots when he faces Pacquiao for the 12-round WBC light middleweight championship on Nov. 13 at the Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

The fight against Margarito, Pacquiao’s homecoming bout in the WBC after two years, could be Pacquiao’s farewell or penultimate fight before hanging his gloves.

The congressman from Sarangani Province in Mindanao, Philippines, might face either Mosley (46-6, 39 KO) or Mayweather (41-0, 25 KO) in his last professional fight next year as he is expected to focus on his obligations as member of the Philippine legislature.

If Margarito, 32, can’t nail the victory, Mexico’s dreams will be shattered along with his possible retirement.

An upset win over the most charismatic boxer in the world since Muhammad Ali will make the five-foot and 11 inches tall Margarito a toast of boxing community in Mexico and the United States where he is extremely popular despite the plaster of Paris fiasco. /MP

Sugilanon Ni Tita Linda

Tita Linda Belayro

Ro Baston Ni Haring Jupiter

Si Haring Jupiter ro tatay it mga Diyos ag Diyosa sa bukid it Olympus. Tungod hari, may ana nga baston nga naga tao kana it gahum. Daea-daea nana permi rondayang baston maskin siin man imaw ga adto. Mahimo ko anang baston nga pakalmahon ro mabaskog nga huyop it hangin ag humbak. Masarangan pa nana paueanon o pasilakon ro tiyempo. Busa, abo nga bu-ot mag angkon ko rondayang baston.

Isaea eon si Haring Pluto, ro hari sa idaeum it eogta. Mortal abi nga magkaaway ra sanda ag bu-ot maka baeaos imaw. Una nana nga guin padaea ro anang alilang kabog kay Haring Jupiter. Ogaling, pagkakita sa baston nga masilaw, nabulag ro kabog ag nahueog sa eawod. Owa eon makabalik.

Pangaywa nana nga guin padaea hay ro alilang dragon. Hakibot ro mga tawo sa pagtunga it dragon. Haaywan ni Haring Jupiter ro anang baston idto sa paboritong hardin. Kat ana eon nga balikan, hay una eot-a ro dragon nga haum nga dagiton ro espada. Hakita it isaeang ka magikero ro natabo. Guin magic nana nga islan ro tunay nga espada ag ipaapok ro tunay sa alima ni Haring Jupiter. Nahalin ro atensyon ko dragon sa naga baga-bagang espada. Guin dagit nana rato ag daehon kay Haring Pluto. Pag abot idto, owa it pueos, owa it gahum ro espada tungod peke. Akig nga akig si Haring Pluto. Busa, anang guin paea-as ro dragon.

Pagkasayod ni Haring Jupiter ko obra it magikero nga si Beron, guin taw-an imaw it premyo. Guin daea pa imaw sa palasyo ag guin paestar bilang tagaserbe it hari. Agod mangin immortal imaw kapareho it ibang mga Diyos ag Diyosa, guin painom imaw it dugos it kabuhi nga owa it kamatayan. Hasta makaron, una pa guihapon si Beron sa kaharian ni Haring Jupiter. /MP

Feeling At Home In Roxas City

by MEGS S. LUNN

Going to Roxas City twice a month is like a respite from my daily routine in Kalibo. The road trip is almost like nothing as the road is smooth and the trip is only an hour and a half by van. If one gets lucky, he can drive with a friend and or hitch with them.

Entering Roxas City, one can feel at home. I remember the first time I came to know the city. That was 20 years ago, I was in high school then. Going back there five years ago was a reminiscence of summer days. I still remember the old Marc’s Beach Resort where we used to play bowling.

I frequently travel to Roxas City for nearly two years now. I almost live there. Like most Aklanons, the people are very accommodating and friendly, too. One best thing Roxas City has is its nearness to Kalibo. The culture is different. The ambiance is calming. No matter how I keep coming back to the city, it seems it’s always new sight to behold to me. I see the country side along the way and it’s always refreshing.

Experience the "hook and cook" at Capiz Bay Resort. It is one retreat place where I want to be. It is relaxing to go fishing. The most exciting part of it is I don’t pay the fish, but I pay for the pleasure of doing it. At the end of the day, it teaches me patience and I feel at peace with nature.

Capiz Bay Resort faces the Pacific Ocean and surrounded by the Panay Mountain at the back. It is a 20-hectare area of beach and mountain, boasts with four duplex cottages, one separate family picnic island ground and one honeymoon cottage, restaurant, fishponds, boating, mountain for hiking, playground, garden, picnic yard and children’s playground. Security and room services are 24 hours. The place is best for passionate writers, readers, honeymooners and retreat fanatics, whether he is alone or with a family or group.

San Antonio Resort and Village is the best hotel village I stay, too. It’s fronting a beach, with lined-up seafood restaurant. Roxas City claims as the Seafood Capital of the Philippines. The resort village offers first class amenities. It is the best manage hotel business owned by a family patriarch in Capiz. It’s just about less than 10 minutes from the city center. Whether one is looking for home away from home treatment or a transient for a night or two, there are many choices of inexpensive hotels in Roxas City.

Politically speaking, I admire the ONE CAPIZ slogan. Now, the politicians and other allied political parties of Roxas City have nothing to complain this time. When one says they are ONE, they work with one vision, one goal, for the good of all. With no harm of hurting each other or bullying each party when there is disagreement on some plans. They are now all ONE CAPIZ, working for the common good, of which even guests and investors of Roxas City benefits, too.

The people in Roxas welcomes visitors and guests with the same special treatment, whether a frequent guest, returning guest or once in a while stop-over guest, one gets the same welcome treat from the warm people of Roxas City. Oh! But nothing can beat staying with host family. When in Roxas City, if you have a family friend, a new-found friend or a long-time friend, you will forever treasure the best hospitality of a host family. You get to know the culture deeper and the best practices of family life in the city, too. /MP

PHO Activities For Garantisadong Pambata Campaign

The Provincial Health Office (PHO) has slated activities for the enhanced campaign on child health through the strengthened education, promotion and implementation of Garantisadong Pambata (GP) health program in the province of Aklan.

Dr. Emma Cortes, provincial health officer, said the GP campaign aims to ensure that children below five years old are given vitamins and prophylactic intervention to prevent childhood diseases and also improve overall health.

"This bi-annual campaign is launched in April and October. This October, the PHO mounts Garantisadong Pambata that aims to reach the most number of mothers on the importance of having their children provided with vitamins and prophylactic interventions," she said.

The campaign activities include the launching of the GP event through a children’s party, engagement of private sector to help the PHO ensure sustainability of the program, involvement of day care centers to ensure that children take center stage in this event and PHO’s campaign to stress the importance of fortified foods such as Pan de Lito by the Bread and Butter.

The launching was held on October 8 at the DRSTMH compound.
　
Boracay To Host ASEAN Glass Conference

BACOLOD CITY - Boracay resort island will be the host of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) 34th Federation Glass Conference on October 19 to 22 at the Shangri-La Boracay’s Resort and Spa.

Peter Javier, secretary general of the Glass Manufacturers Association of the Philippines Incorporated (GMAPI), said the glass conference hosted by the national industry association has its theme "Glass and the Environment: Together Towards New Horizons of Growth."

"This annual conference is very well attended by the glass manufacturers from the ASEAN and Asian countries and by the supplier of the industry from all over the world.

About 200 to 250 local and foreign delegates are expected to attend," said Javier.

During this activity, Glass Manufacturers will be discussing their concerns especially now that their concerns are related to environment.

Their itinerary includes the registration of the delegates will be in the AFGM Golf Tournament at the Fairways and Bluewater. The Fairways is the site of the 1997 Johnnie Walker Super Tour.

Activities include the ASEAN economic briefing, plenary session, technical sessions, special session concerning "Lessons on Growth Strategies", Business Connect among others. The delegates will also be treated with a local showcase of ati-atihan festival and a pageant night.

Both Aklan provincial governor Carlito S. Marquez and Malay Mayor John Yap will welcome the delegates in this resort island.

　
PHO Activities For Garantisadong Pambata Campaign

The Provincial Health Office (PHO) has slated activities for the enhanced campaign on child health through the strengthened education, promotion and implementation of Garantisadong Pambata (GP) health program in the province of Aklan.

Dr. Emma Cortes, provincial health officer, said the GP campaign aims to ensure that children below five years old are given vitamins and prophylactic intervention to prevent childhood diseases and also improve overall health.

"This bi-annual campaign is launched in April and October. This October, the PHO mounts Garantisadong Pambata that aims to reach the most number of mothers on the importance of having their children provided with vitamins and prophylactic interventions," she said.

The campaign activities include the launching of the GP event through a children’s party, engagement of private sector to help the PHO ensure sustainability of the program, involvement of day care centers to ensure that children take center stage in this event and PHO’s campaign to stress the importance of fortified foods such as Pan de Lito by the Bread and Butter.

The launching was held on October 8 at the Dr. Rafael S. Tumbukon Memorial Hospital (DRSTMH) compound.
　
Boracay To Host ASEAN Glass Conference

Boracay resort island will be the host of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) 34th Federation Glass Conference on October 19 to 22 at the Shangri-La Boracay’s Resort and Spa.

Peter Javier, secretary general of the Glass Manufacturers Association of the Philippines Incorporated, said the glass conference hosted by the national industry association has its theme "Glass and the Environment: Together Towards New Horizons of Growth."

"This annual conference is very well attended by the glass manufacturers from the ASEAN and Asian countries and by the supplier of the industry from all over the world.

About 200 to 250 local and foreign delegates are expected to attend," said Javier.
During this activity, Glass Manufacturers will be discussing their concerns especially now that their concerns are related to environment.

Their itinerary includes the registration of the delegates will be in the AFGM Golf Tournament at the Fairways and Bluewater. The Fairways is the site of the 1997 Johnnie Walker Super Tour.

Activities include the ASEAN economic briefing, plenary session, technical sessions, special session concerning "Lessons on Growth Strategies", Business Connect among others. The delegates will also be treated with a local showcase of ati-atihan festival and a pageant night. Both Aklan provincial governor Carlito S. Marquez and Malay Mayor John Yap will welcome the delegates in this resort island.(PNA) /MP

Aklan Governor Creates TWG For Crisis Management

Kalibo, Aklan — A Technical Working Group (TWG) for the establishment of the Crisis Management Committee in the province of Aklan is now in place with the signing by Governor Carlito S. Marquez signed Executive Order No. 042 which authorized its creation.

EO No. 042 was signed on September 30. The Crisis Management Committee is primarily mandated to ensure the coordinated action in order to minimize danger to life, health, and property from a crisis caused by human activity or natural disaster and to effectively respond to crisis/emergency situation in Aklan.

The signing of the EO is also consistent with SP Resolution No. 2010-062 sponsored by Vice Gov. Gabrielle V. Calizo Quimpo and co-sponsored by all members of the Sang-guniang Panlalawigan entitled "A Collective Resolution requesting the DILG and the Law Enforcement Agencies under it, particularly the PNP, the Provincial Government of Aklan, all related National and Local Government Agencies, and Private Sector Oorganizations in the Province to organize a Security Crisis Management Structure to craft and implement a ready, doable, adequate and responsive security plan and protocol. It is designed to preempt and effectively respond to crisis situations involving security, very particularly focused on the tourist gateways and destinations in Aklan".

Chaired by PPSupt. Epifanio A. Bragais, Jr., Provincial Director, Aklan Police Provincial Office and Co-Chaired by Engr. Roger M. Esto, Provincial Planning and Develop-ment Officer, the EO also identified 17 TWG members coming from the Department of Interior and Local Government, the Philippine Army, Provincial Public Safety Management Office, Provincial Health Office, Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines, Kapisanan ng Mga Brodkaster sa Pilipinas, Provincial Crime Laboratory, Provincial Engineer’s Office, Philippine Information Agency,Jetty Port Administrator, Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine Coastguard and Auxiliaries, PNP Maritime Group, Aviation Security Group, Provincial Highway Ppatrol Group and the Provincial Legal Officer.

As to functions, the TWG will initiate and coordinate activities/meetings of TWG members, assist in organizing a security Crisis Management Committee in the province to address any crisis/emergency situations and to recommend for the approval of the Provincial Security Plan that will be implemented responsively when crisis situation occurs.

The TWG is also tasked under the EO to recommend for the approval of the proposed fund support for the Provincial SWAT Individual and Team Equipments including its training requirements and recommend for the approval of guidelines in the participation of Local Chief Executives in the established Crisis Management Committees under the Municipal Peace and Order Council.

Before the official signing of the EO to strengthen the TWG, the group already held five weekly meetings at the Aklan Police Provincial Office.

During the meetings, TWG members took turns presenting their respective functions as well as measures should a crisis arise in their area of jurisdiction.

The EO signing finally legitimize the TWG. The group will now consolidate their functions and measures to come out with the needed security plan to protect Aklan’s tourist destinations, especially Boracay Island. (by Venus G. Villanueva)

P2.2 Billion for Caticlan Airport Development

The Caticlan Airport, which has been officially named Godofredo P. Ramos Airport after the former congressman of Aklan, is one of the best private-public partnership that has been established so far under the administration of President Benigno C. Aquino III.

Department of Tourism (DOT) Regional Dir. Edwin Trompeta said that the small airport that serves as the shortest flight from Manila or Cebu to the famous tourist destination Boracay island in Aklan is now being operated by a consortium of the San Miguel Corporation and the Ayala together with the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC).

Trompeta said that in fact the National Eco-nomic and Development Authority (NEDA) Board has already given a notice for the consortium to proceed with its development plan.

The consortium plans a huge project costing around P2.2 billion for the lengthening of the airport runway so that it could accommodate big aircraft and then to put up a new terminal and upgraded services.

The Caticlan airport has been classified as a Class 2 Principal airport by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines.

It is also being considered as the seventh busiest airport in the Philippines and the third-busiest in Western Visayas region with the SEAIR and the Asian Spirit flying in.
The SEAIR has the Dornier 328 German engineered turbo prop that is a 32-seater flying in from Manila to Caticlan for about an hour.

The Caticlan Airport is also just a 5-minute tricycle ride from the jetty port, where the banca boats are anchoring to take tourists bound for Boracay island. (PNA) /MP

EDITORIAL

Experience Driving: An Ordeal

by GABRIEL M. DELFIN

Driving around Aklan is an experience! A challenge! An enjoyable undertaking, But you may get a nervous breakdown at its worst. Yes, it is. Why?

When on the wheels of your car, you may be constantly tense. Or maybe in constant crisis. But be fully alert. Doubly alert. How?

While leisurely driving your car, you don’t know what may come next. Especially with a horde of motorcycles or tricycles, or even cars and vans, racing ahead or behind you. Or coming your way, from the opposite direction, navigating on your lane. Of course on the lane you are on (your lane called counterflow).

And beware, those coming behind you may pass (overtake) you from the right. Before you know it, you may hit the motorcycle, or tricycle, or even a car, racing with you from the wrong side. Of course the motorcycle driver may have no helmet (the helmet is usually hanged on either side of the wheel of the head lamp or driver’s elbow).

I have one experience while driving. A young lady driver, no helmet of course, was in a hurry. And she was navigating on my lane (counterflow). Driving slowly due to heavy traffic, I suddenly stopped the car and asked the lady, why (she is running against the traffic?)

The answer? "I’m in a hurry Sir," she said. Then I asked her, where to? Hospital or cemetery? She just gave a sour smile.

A lot of drivers just don’t follow traffic rules (ignorant). Or they just ignore these rules. Yes, this is even true with professionals (not with professional drivers license, ha!) They don’t respect traffic signs. The NO PASSING (no overtaking) SIGN is just ignored. Even on dangerous curves probably they don’t understand that signage. Or don’t/couldn’t see them. Or don’t know how to read. The majority CAN’T read (or see) the word ‘YIELD’ posted on corners.

A friend once said that these drivers have not attended any driver’s seminars. They did, but how? Do they listen during these sessions?

One time, some time ago, I happen to pass by the lecture hall where the Land Transportation Office (LTO) Provincial Director was delivering a lecture. I saw the drivers, or prospective drivers, having animated conversations at the back. The same is true some time later, with the TRAFCOM head doing the same. When I met him, and the TRAFCOM officer, later, I jokingly told our LTO provincial director that I was mad when I saw these student/drivers. I told him that I wanted to stone those lecture participants because they are insulting my friend – not listening to him. I also told the same to TRAFCOM office.

At the end of the day, they received a certificate of attendance for just attending. That’s it. Nothing learned, but the certificate.

I really enjoy watching tricycle drivers especially when they execute left turns. Watch their signal. It’s beautiful and enjoyable to see. They use their left foot pointing leftward. I’m afraid a reckless driver from behind may make a pass and cuts his left foot.

Or their left hand shaking, as if shaking away some wet dirt or dirty water. Or shaking away some drops of water from their left hand (ga wesik-wesik in Akeanon).

On Parking

Everyone just park everywhere, anywhere – left, right or center of the road or street. Go around anytime in Aklan and see vehicles parked anywhere. And what is sad is that they park their beautiful cars even in front of police stations, town halls, and beside "NO PARKING" signs. For majority of our drivers can not read signs. What a sight!

On Loading/Unloading

The loading and unloading of passengers is done anywhere the driver pleases. There is a sign, "NO LOADING/UNLOADING" signs. Yes, passengers may go up or down their tricycles or multicab, in front of these signs. And without hustle. But these signages can’t be seen, even how big the letters are. These seem not to exist. And when reminded, our drivers give you a blank stare.

Yes, with traffic enforcers standing beside the "NO PARKING" or "NO LOADING/UNLOADING" signs. They also pretend not to notice any thing. So life goes on as usual. No apprehensions.

And watch when a passenger vehicle, a multicab, a jitney or tricycle, or even private vehicles like cars and vans, unload a passenger. Watch out. They just swerve without making signals to their left, or their right. "Grabbing" your lane, and unload their passengers.

At Junctions/Corners. Just be very careful here. If you think you are free to speed up your car to 70 to 80 kms. per hour you are wrong. You might hit a big truck coming out of the corner. And you think you are safe because there is a "YIELD" sign? You are wrong again. Our drivers can’t see this signage. Don’t say only the less educated tricycle or motorcycle drivers for the professionals as well, teachers, lawyers, CPAs, other college graduates and others. Again, these signboards can’t be seen no matter how huge the letters are. Or do they understand what it means?

And when on the highway, cruising at 70 to 80 kpm, don’t say you are safe. Other small vehicles running as fast or faster or very slow, may be cruising at the middle of the road. It wont give way even if your horn is so loud that may damage their ear drums.

When tailing (following) a vehicle, whether a car, a ten wheeler truck, a multicab or a tricycle, don’t trust that you are safe. The vehicle ahead of you may swerve to either left or right without warning. And without an indication he is turning. No signal light blinking. Neither a hand signal is seen. So be alert, you might bump on that vehicle.
Many, many more unforeseen and unpre-dictable movements of our genius drivers are here. They certainly have so many antiques which drivers from other countries don’t have.

You’ll really enjoy! I bet you will. But don’t get nervous. Just be alert, doubly alert to save your life and limbs! Enjoy driving your car at your own risk. Can our local LGU officials make the roads enjoyable and safe? /MP

Entrepreneurial Farmer

Ambrosio R. Villorente

Quality Performance

This column congratulates sincerely Ms. Melrose S. Lunn for having "earned the status of Advanced Leader Bronze" in the Toastmasters International Leadership program.

This information came from Mr. Daniel Rex, Executive Director of Toastmasters Inter-national. According to Daniel, the leadership program is a self-paced training program that enables participants to learn effective leadership skills in a club environ-ment. Participants serve as Toastmasters Club leaders, influencing and motivating followers to achieve a mission or goal to achieve Advanced Leader Bronze. It involves several years of studies and activities.

Through the Kalantiao Toastmasters Club in Kalibo, Aklan, Melrose Lunn has helped more members function productively and deliver quality performances.

Senior Citizen Committee

The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Aklan has approved General Ordinance No. 2010 – 002 that created the Committee on Senior Citizens, Persons With Disabilities, People’s Organization and NGO. This committee is tasked to take up matters concerning issues and concerns affecting the welfare of senior citizens (SC) and to empower them?

This is a welcome development. But how will the SP Aklan compel the grant of 20 percent discount to goods and services purchase by the SC’s? The payment of value added tax too is still imposed on SC’s purchases.

In grocery stores in Kalibo, the SC’s are limited to five (5) percent discount of P600 purchased on a weekly basis.

Surplus Tricycles

On Friday afternoon, at the corner of Roxas Avenue and A. Mabini Street, EF with a Kalibo Auxiliary Police (KAP) stood by. We counted the empty tricycles which passed by. In about one (1) minute, we counted 30 empty tricycles which passed by our front.
In another day, one morning, I also stood on the same spot with another KAB. We counted empty tricycles that passed by our front. In one minute, 23 empty tricycles passed by.

If this becomes a trend, then there is a continuous waste of resources by way of manpower, fuel and repair of vehicles. There is the occupation of space as well. There is more pollution.

With that very raw data, there are 1,380 to 1,800 tricycles which traverse every hour in Roxas Avenue corner A. Mabini Street.

This observation might convince the traffic management office of LGU Kalibo to study the vehicle situation in the town of Kalibo. The study may discover basic information valid for use in the drafting of policy to govern traffic management. The study might also address to determine the vehicle needs of Kalibo so as to save on resources like manpower, fuel, and vehicle repairs. The empty tricycles also occupy space. It will also improve traffic manage-ment and implementation in Kalibo.

Diploma Course

It is very delighting to learn that Aklan’s vice gov. Gabrielle V. Calizo-Quimpo is attending a Diploma Course in Development Legislation and Governance. She has already attended the first module in Fundamentals of Philippine Local Legislation held on September 15 – 16 in the Development Academy of the Philippines, Tagaytay City.

Should she complete 24 units, vice governor Quimpo will be awarded a diploma. If she earns 36 units, she will be conferred a degree in Master of Public Administration, Major in Local Governance and Development.

According to Vice Gov. Quimpo, the study will capacitate the students and make them strategic leaders capable to be peace builders, development instigators, policy makers, people’s partners and change advocates.

Indeed, "education is continuing". Even if vice gov. Calizo – Quimpo is very busy as a public official and with her private business, she finds time to study. Only a few public officials find and spend time and effort to study to improve their capabilities for the service of the people. /MP

Aklan Develops Lambingan Beach

by RICHIE D. OLOROSO

The provincial government of Aklan is prepared to develop the Lambingan Beach. This is situated in the shoreline boundary of barangay Pook and Andagao in Kalibo as a possible alternate tourists attraction in the capital town.

This project appeared clear for implementation after the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Aklan has authorized, through Resolution No. 2010-094, Gov. Carlito S. Marquez to enter into a Memorandum of Agreement with the Sacred Heart of Jesus Prime Holdings, Inc. and Blue Chip Builders, Inc. for both parties to introduce infrastructure facilities aimed at developing the Lambingan Beach.

Earlier, Marquez has entered into a Memo-randum of Understanding with the Sacred Heart of Jesus Prime Holdings, Inc. and Blue Chip Builders, Inc. which committed them-selves to donate road right of way within their property from barangay Pook to Lambingan Beach and an additional 5,000 square meters near the beach area to be used by the province for the construction of tourism facilities therein.

The LGU Aklan commits itself to replace the temporary bridge by constructing a concrete bridge connecting Lambingan beach and to erect structures like a jetty port, a Provincial Tourism Office, and a showroom of Aklan products to promote the tourism potentials of Aklan particularly Kalibo.

The province is committed to shoulder the cost of transferring the donated properties to the name of the provincial government while the donors must be consulted on whatever project or develop-ment to be introduced in the donated properties.

The resolution also authorized Gov. Marquez to accept the donations.

Local tourists frequented Lambingan Beach in the past. This development will revive its luster once facilities are established. /MP

Regenerative Farming Through Foliar Organic Fertilizer

by ERNESTO T. SOLIDUM

Picture shows the author, Mr. Ernesto T. Solidum with Mr. Edwin P. Jimenez, farmer entrepreneur showing a rice field in Mabilo, New Washington. Note the healthy stand and fully filled grains as a result of using Masinag foliar organic fertilizer. Adjacent field owned by Mrs. Erlina J. Alingig is heavily infested by Brown Planthoppers (BPH) despite calendar spraying of pesticides.

In 1995 my closed friend, Artaban Abad of Upi, Maguindanao showed me odd looking samples of home made bio fertilizer in muslin covered glass jars. Those were fermented fruit rejects of pineapple, bananas, lanzones. In a matter of 3 – 4 days, that concoction could be sprayed directly as bio fertilizer and insecticide.

It was quite unorthodox but he convinced me that his backyard piggery of two breeding sows and two gilts emitted no foul odor. Flies were few in number. Even his small broiler chicken house smelled none despite accumulated litter droppings.

Abad’s residential house and backyard project were in the Poblacion and bounded by Christians and Tidurays. Yet, occasional complaints are limited to the noise of his farm animals. Nothing serious about it. All his neighbors were meat lovers.

He later confided that this was the result of his 10 day hands on training at the Oblates of Mary Immaculate in Tacorong, Sultan Kudarat. The Center provides technical skills on organic farming system that avoids the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides and growth regulators. They rely on crop rotation, crop residues, animal manures, legumes, mechanical cultivators and mineral–bearing rock.

What a big blow to conventional agriculture that depends on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides to achieve high yield per hectare: Research findings indicate that as farmers rely on them to increase yield, their high acquisition cost actually lower their net income. As world price of crude oil increases so is the cost of chemical inputs as experienced in the country in 2008 when price of Urea went up to P1,600 per bag.

According to Mr. Sharma of Jodhpur, India, organic farming is a recent approach that aims to conserve natural resources and protect the environment. BPH population were low in plots treated with organic amendments along with synthetic fertilizers.

Surprisingly, Abad’s training under an NGO program was technically advanced than the govern-ment – run institutions provide particularly the Bureau of Agricultural Research (BAR).

Today, the process of extracting enzymes from plants and animal origin through fermentation are being refined to meet domestic demands in agriculture and aquaculture industry. Concerted efforts are laid down in the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change to limit global greenhouse emissions. Full scale use of organic fertilizers according to Rodale Institute Farming Systems Trial in the US, is a regenerative agricultural practice that can effectively sequester carbon dioxide from the air and store it in the soil. Beneficial bacteria called mycorrhizal fungi slows down decay of organic matter and secretes a potent glue like substance called glomalin that stimulates increased soil aggregation. On a global scale, agricultural land use contributes 12 percent of greenhouse gas emissions.

Such is a product now produced and marketed as Masinag/foliar organic fertilizer. Launched in Aklan barely five months ago, it has captured early adoptors: agri businessmen Edwin P. Jimenez and Engr. Blas Salvador all of New Washington.

Both men are very passionate about the product and early findings show marked improvement in tillering and growth capacity of Rc. 158. Demo farm of Jimenez (.2 ha.) is near Global Business Power Plant in Mabilo, New Washington while Salvador (1.0 ha.) is near KIA Control Tower, Pook, Kalibo. Both farms are irrigated.
As of Sept. 29, 2010, Jimenez’ farm is in the hard dough stage or one week from harvesting. One can easily observe fully filled grains, healthy and erect stand of rice plants and insignificant pest/disease damage. Estimated yield is more than 100 cavans per hectare.

However, in the adjacent field owned by Erlina J. Alingig, also planted to Re 158 but a week earlier suffers from heavy infestation of BPH. The farm is totally dependent on chemical fertilizers and pesticides.

Hopper burns result when more than 5 BPH per hill are sucking at the base of rice plants. When broad spectrum insecticides like parapest and brodan are used, natural predators are also eliminated. Recommended ones are cypermethrins and carbo-mate insecticides. They must be used sparingly depending on economic threshold level assessment.

Adoption of Masinag foliar organic fertilizer can easily fit into the budget of an average rice farmer. It recommends 1 bag (14-14-14) and minimum of 5 bags compost per hectare applied during final harrowing. Top dressing of 1 bag Urea is done 35-40 days after transplanting (DAT) depending upon the variety. Dosage is 1 liter Masinag per 100 gallons of water. Timing of foliar spray is 4, 8, 12 and 18 DAT.
Seedlings are pulled 12 DAT and transplanted approximately 15 X 15 cms at 1-2 seedlings per hill. Here, closer spacing and accurate water management prevent significant weed growth. When weeds emerge, the farmer conducts spot hand weeding. It is best not to apply herbicides.

The product contains 1 percent nitrogen, 2 percent phosphorous, 2 percent potassium, plus micro-nutrients and registered as FPA No. 1-1 LP 2767. Active ingredient is T-enzyme which has also potent insecticide, bac-tericide and fungicide inhibition properties. Satisfied customers have been recorded in Iloilo, Negros Occ., Pangasinan, and Nueva Ecija based on demo farm results. The product is also effective for corn, vegetables, fruit trees, and aquaculture. More demo farms and farmer meetings are scheduled by the company in the second cropping season. /MP

Aklanons Swarm “Philhealth Sabado Day”

Hundreds of Aklanons flocked to the ABL Sports Complex, Kalibo, Aklan for the Nationwide Philhealth Registration Day, October 2.

The Nationwide Registration Day was held to register individuals who have not yet registered under the program.

For a minimal payment of P100.00 per month, a member under this program could avail benefits from Philhealth, including his wife, minor children and elderly parents.

During the opening program, Aklan governor Carlito S. Marquez exhorted Philhealth for conducting the project dubbed "Philhealth Sabado" to expand the number of program beneficiaries.

Marquez also talked about 4Ps, which has also benefited poor families in the municipalities of Libacao and Madalag, and just this year, those in Balete and Buruanga.

"Congressman Miraflores also told me that the budget for this program has been doubled for 2011, so we are hoping that all municipalities in the province will be covered by this program, except for Kalibo and Malay, which are now first-class towns," Marquez told the big crowd, who came from all parts of Aklan to register.

The registration was assisted by employees and volunteers from the Department of Education, Department of Health, Department of Interior and Local Government, Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office, doctors and health workers of Kalibo RHU and doctors and health workers of the Dr. Rafael S. Tumbokon Memorial Hospital.

According to Dr. Victorina Laroza, Schools Division Superintendent of DepEd-Aklan, a total of 30 volunteers from the DepEd came to support the activity while the DOH had 15. The PSWDO had four (4) while all MSWDOs from Aklan’s 17 towns also came to assist.

At the opening program, 93 residents from Libacao who have registered earlier were awarded their Philhealth cards. On the other hand, 44 residents of Madalag were also handed theirs through Philhealth Provincial Officer J’Roel del Rosario and Governor Carlito S. Marquez.

Del Rosario said that besides the hundreds who flocked the venue to register, his office is also anticipating some 600 CAFGU members to register under the program.

During the same activity, the Provincial Health Office headed by Dr. Emma T. Cortes, PHO II gave free AH1N1 vaccinations to constituents. The free vaccines were given by the World Health Organization. Dr. Cortez urged the people to avail of the opportunity, as each vaccine could cost P2,500.00 if obtained in private clinics.

The AH1N1 vaccinations were administered by health workers from the PHO, MHOs, nurses and midwives of RHUs and volunteer nurses of the Dr. Rafael S. Tumbokon Memorial Hospital (DRSTMH). (Venus G. Villanueva) /MP

I Want Pacquiao Now, Mosley Insists

by ALEX P. VIDAL

BOSTON, Massachusetts — Win or lose against Antonio Margarito, boxing sensation Manny Pacquiao might still end up facing the fading but veteran American terror Shane Mosley instead of the much-fancied Floyd Mayweather in his first fight in 2011.

This became apparent after Mosley (46-6-1, 39 KO) disclosed his management team will begin negotiating with Top Rank chief executive Bob Arum in October this year for a possible crack at the Filipino’s lucrative name in another blockbuster showdown.
　

Mosley, 39, has been hot after the heels of the best boxer pound-for-pound from General Santos City, Philippines since 2009 and is unfazed by his lackluster performance against Sergio Mora (22-1-2, 6 KO)) at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California last Sept. 18 where he was criticized for being "over the hill."

The former world welterweight king, who boasts of two victories over Oscar De La Hoya and Fernando Vargas, salvaged a 12-round draw against Mora in what many experts believed was a fight dominated by the former "Challenger" winner.

If Pacquiao (51-3-2, 38 KO) wins against Margarito on November 13 at the Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas, Mosley said he is willing to fight the 31-year-old Pacquiao in the light middleweight division. If Pacquiao loses, Mosley would be comfortable he said to tangle with Pacquiao in the welterweight division.

Mosley knocked out Margarito for WBA super welterweight title on January 24, 2009 at the Staples Center. The scandal-ridden match resulted in the stripping of Margarito’s license after it was discovered he loaded his fists with hardened substance.

Margarito (38-6, 27 KO) however sideswiped Mosely for the right to face Pacquiao on November 13 when negotiations to bring on unbeaten　Floyd Mayweather Jr. to fight the boxer-cum-lawmaker in a rich title match bogged down for good.

This was after he outpointed Roberto Garcia for　WBC international light middleweight title held in Aguascalientes, Mexico last August 5, 2010.

Mosley came close to toppling Mayweather in their title fight but lost by unanimous decision on January 5, 2010 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Arum however might ask Mosley to first beat　WBC welterweight champion Andre Berto (26-0, 20 KO) in a tune up bout before he will be given the chance to meet Pacquiao.

Plaster of Paris’ Tainted Reputation

Antonio Margarito must win over Manny Pacquiao in this November 13 to infuse blood in his sagging career, zapped by embarrassing allegations he tampered his handwraps to beat his opponents.

Margarito became fight business’ symbol of shame and scandal after the California State Athletic Commission suspended him and his trainer Javier Capetillo. Their licenses were issued months after yielding his WBA welterweight crown on a 9th round disposal to Sugar Shane Mosley at the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California on January 24, 2009.

His nightmare began when Mosley’s trainer, Naazim Richardson, observed that Margarito (38-2, 27 KO) had a pasty white substance in his handwraps prior to the fight.

When California State Inspector Dean Lohuis asked Margarito’s hands to be rewrapped, they found out that the wet pads in the wrapping contained plaster used to make casts.

Mosley’s doctor, Robert Olvera, joined the fray and after subsequent investigations, the California Department of Justice laboratory confirmed the substance to be similar in nature to plaster of Paris.

SULFUR AND CALCIUM
　

The wet substance contained sulfur and calcium which, when combined with oxygen, forms "Plaster of Paris", it was reported.

Margarito claimed innocence over the controversy. He denied he had knowledge about the attempt cheating.

It appeared the 32-year-old Margarito’s fistic career had come to a catastrophic end when it was reported he had been banned from boxing in the United States on principle that state boxing commissions generally honor suspensions imposed in other states.

However, he was scheduled to fight Carson Jones in the undercard of the Manny Pacquiao versus Joshua Clottey WBO rumble last March 13 at the Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas but Top Rank scrapped him from the promotion pending application for his license in the State of Texas.

He was finally back in action on May 8, 2010, scoring a 10-round unanimous decision over Roberto Garcia to capture the vacant but nondescript WBC international light middleweight title in Aguascalientes, Mexico.

Five feet and 11 inches-tall Margarito finally got his license in Texas this year. On July 23, Top Rank chief executive officer Bob Arum announced he would face Pacquiao for the vacant 12-round WBC super welterweight or light middleweight title in the Cowboys Stadium.

MOST IMPORTANT

Heavier than Pacquiao (51-3-2, 38 KO) and with 73 inches (185 cm) in reach, Margarito considers his fight with the very popular Filipino as the most important in his career that started 17 years ago when he made a successful debut at the age of 15, whipping Jose Trujillo in Tijuana, Mexico by decision.

Born in Torrance, California and now residing in Baja California, Mexico, Margarito has collected three world crowns and will shoot for his fourth title against the 31-year-old Pacquiao.
　

African Clottey and Puerto Rican Miguel Angel Cotto are the common denominators between Pacquiao and Margarito.
　

Four years ago on December 2, 2006, Margarito defeated Clottey on points. Clottey also lost on points to Pacquiao.

On July 26, 2008, Margarito humiliated the previously unscathed Cotto via 11th round TKO in Las Vegas, Nevada for WBA welterweight title. Pacquiao also tortured and toppled Cotto in the 12th and final stanza on Nov. 11, 2009 also in Las Vegas, Nevada. /MP　　

Sugilanon Ni Tita Linda

Tita Linda Belayro

Si Pedro Ag Ro Gabot Nga Pilapil

Isaeang adlaw, guin sugo si Pedro ko anang ina. "Pedro," ihatod mo anay ro tinapay idto sa bulag nga magueang sa pihak nga pilapil," sugo ko anang ina.

Nagtuman, nagpanaw si Pedro daea ro libon. Pagtabok nana sa pilapil, haabutan nana ro magueang nga naga hueat sa poetahan. Guin ta-o nana ro tinapay. Dayon, umuli imaw.

Tungod nga mataas pa ro adlaw, nag pamutoe pa anay si Pedro it mga bueak agod daehon sa anang ina. Pagtan-aw nana sa may pilapil, hakita nana ro naga tomag nga pilapil. Sayod imaw kon ano ka peligro kon magbahoe ro buho sa pilapil. Sigurado guid imaw nga abong kasamaran sa andang banwa kon mabukwang ro pilapil. Dali-dali nana nga guin sutsot ro anang alima ag nag umpisa imaw it patabang.

Amat-amat eon nga naga dueom. Ogaling owa guid it nakabati ko anang singgit tongod guina toeon ro anang limog ko mabaskog nga humbak.

Hasta nga natunod ro adlaw, naga toeonga eon ro bituon, eaos eon ro limog ni Pedro it sininggit ogaling owa guid nana pagbuhi-i ro tabon sa anang alima. Nag kagubot eon sa baeay ni Pedro. Pag eaum nanda hay patay eot-a ro onga.

Maangan-angan, habatian nanda ro mga tawong naga sininggit nga may sueo nga guina pas-an kaibahan si Pedro. Hakatoeogan eot-a imaw ag hakit-an imaw it mga tawo nga naga eohod guihapon ag owa guid pagbuhi-i ko anang alima ro gabot sa pilapil.

Nangin baganihan si Pedro sa bilog nga Holland. Kon owa nana pag ideyahe nga ipasak ro anang butkon sa gabot it pilapil, abo eon man kunta nga kabuhi ro naduea. Halin sa eapsag nga guina duyan hasta sa pinaka magueang owa it bukang bibig ro mga tawo kundi ro kabaganihan nga guin obra ni Pedro.

Hasta nga ro pilapil sa Holland hay naga tindog agod abangan ro tubi sa dagat, una ro pangaean ni Pedro naka ukit sa kada tagipusuon it mga Olandes. /MP

DA Exec Urges LGUs To Prohibit Catching Spiders

The Department of Agriculture (DA), Iloilo City, has urged local government units (LGUs) to pass an ordinance that prohibits and penalizes the catching and collecting of spiders.

DA regional executive director Larry Nacionales said that LGUs in rural areas, especially those that have large farmlands should protect their spider species and population as it is one of nature’s pest control mechanisms.

"The presence of spiders indicates that the farm has a healthy population of good insects such as dragon flies and lady bird beetles. Likewise, the numbers of rice pests such as brown plant hoppers are kept in check by spiders", Nacionales said.

The LGUs should consider banning spider fights and regulate its trading. The local council should make a move to penalize spider catchers in their towns, he added.

Wild and venomous species of spiders, often found in farm areas have been collected and sold in the city streets recently. It is used in spider fights and has become a sort of betting game, much like in the case of cock fights in communities.

The LGUs should also coordinate with their municipal agriculture office on how to protect spiders and its role as natural pest managers. They should protect natural predators such as spiders, Nacionales suggested.

A single wolf spider, for example can consume up to 25 adult brown plant hoppers in a day. Iloilo province is currently monitoring and addressing the threat of brown plant hoppers in some 20 towns already.

Brown plant hoppers suck the nutrient and sap of rice plants. It could destroy hectares of rice lands in just a few days before hopping to nearby rice lands. (PNA)

AMS Asks Aklan Doctors Never Smoke In Public

Officers and members of the Aklan Medical Society (AMS) are asking their members to refrain from smoking in public to serve as models for their patients.

Dr. Oscar Hilario, newly-elected president of the AMS, said that the executives agreed to promote healthy lifestyle among the physicians and one of these is to encourage them to quit smoking.

"Our officers are currently monitoring our members who are smoking in public and we will have them discouraged to do so," Hilario said.

In the same way, the AMS has called on the public to report to their office any doctor who is found smoking in public. The AMS can only, however, reprimand doctors who are members.

"As doctors, we do not want to be blamed for diseases caused by second-hand smoke. We want to become a model for healthy lifestyle for the public," Hilario said. (PNA)

Soroptimist International of Kalibo Holds Medical/Dental Mission

Some 263 patients, mostly children and the elderly from Brgy. Mobo, Kalibo, Aklan, were served by twelve 12 doctors and 10 dentists last September 24, 2010 as part of the medical and dental mission conducted at an agrarian reform community of DAR in Kalibo. Mrs. Ofelia B. Martelino, President of Soroptimist International of Kalibo, stressed their continuing projects and programs to help improve the lives of women and girls in the communities as well as ensuring that women attain economic and political equality in their lifetime.

The event also marked the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement to Adopt a Barangay between Soroptimist International of Kalibo and the Barangay Mobo represented by Brgy. Captain Wendell Tayco. He also welcomed this development as the barangay tries to reach out to various agencies to improve the quality of lives of the residents in the area.

Meanwhile, Aklan Vice Governor Gabrielle C. Quimpo, past president of Soroptimist International of Kalibo distributed vegetable seeds to the women farmers to help augment their farm incomes. Congressman Florencio T. Miraflores was also present to witness the occasion.

Barangay Mobo is an agrarian reform community of DAR Aklan in the municipality of Kalibo. Other sponsors of the event are Senator Manny Villar, Congressman Florencio Miraflores and Governor Carlito Marquez. /MP

Aklan SP To Approve Resolution On Blood Banking Facilities

The three committees of the Aklan Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) recommended on October 6, 2010 during the body’s 13th regular session, the approval of a resolution requesting Aklan Gov. Carlito S. Marquez to include in the province’s development plan and annual budget appropriation next year the procurement of equipment and installation of facilities for the much needed blood banking facilities at the Dr. Rafael S. Tumbokon Memorial Hospital.

Reviewed and evaluated by the Committee on Laws, Rules and Ordinances, Committee on Budget, Finance, Appropriations and Ways and Means, and the Committee on Health, the proposed resolution of SP member Victor Manuel M. Garcia on the subject is set to be calendared during the next session on second reading for debates and amendments bearing the three committees’ favorable recommendation.

For equipment alone, the smaller capacity blood bank equipment will cost the province P3.8 million while the bigger capacity will cost about P4.9 million.

The standard equipment for the blood bank facilities are the brand new blood bank refrigerator, brand new plasma freezer, brand new portable automatic sealer, brand new pharmaceutical refrigerator, brand new blood collection mixer, brand new biomedical freezer, and brand new refrigerated centrifuge.

Garcia’s resolution also calls for the hiring of qualified personnel to man the blood bank: a duly licensed physician as head and certified in Clinical Pathology or blood banking by the Philippine Society of Pathologists; certified in blood transfusion by the Philippine Society of Pathologists; certified in blood transfusion by the Philippine Society of Blood Transfusion and certified in Anatomic Pathology by PSP or in Hematology by the PHSBT.

The proposed blood bank will also require the services of four (4) medical technologists distributed in shift for 24 hours with at least 6 months on the job experience in blood banking service; one (1) designated and trained/qualified Donor Recruit-ment Officer; and one (1) designated qualified and trained senior medical technologist as Quality Assurance Officer.

As to space, the blood bank will require ideal space to conform with the Manual Standards of the Department of Health.

Garcia stressed that the need for blood banking or processing facilities in Aklan has already become so serious and urgent that the provincial government must immediately consider and implement.

Garcia was prompted to introduce this resolution in the light of the never ending and critical problem of the lack of blood supply magnified by the outbreak of Dengue in Aklan. (by Richie D. Oloroso) /MP

EDITORIAL

The Parable of the Three Trees

May I begin this editorial with a short parable. With your permission, the "Parable of The Three Trees" runs this way.

There were three trees on a hill in the woods. They discussed their hopes and dreams. The 1st tree said, "Someday, I hope to be a treasure chest. I could be filled with gold, silver and precious gems and be decorated with intricate carvings. Everyone would see my beauty."

The 2nd tree said, "Someday, I will be a mighty ship. I will take kings and queens across the waters and sail to the corners of the world. Everyone will feel safe in me because of my strong hull." Finally, the 3rd tree said, "I want to grow to be the tallest and straightest tree. People will see me on top of the hill and look up to my branches, and think of the heavens and God and how close to them I am reaching. I will be the greatest tree of all time people will always remember me."

After a few years of praying that their dreams would come true, a group of woodsmen came upon the trees. One came to the 1st tree and said, "This looks like a strong tree, I think I should be able to sell the wood to a carpenter," and he began cutting it down. The tree was happy, because he knew that the carpenter would make him into a treasure chest.

At the 2nd tree, one of the other woodsman said, "This looks like a strong tree, I should be able to sell it in the shipyard." The 2nd tree was happy, because he knew he was on his way to becoming a mighty ship.

When the woodsmen came upon the 3rd tree, the tree was frightened, because it knew that if it cuts down, its dream would not come true. One of the woodsmen said, "I don’t need anything! special from my tree, so I’ll take this one," and he cut it down. When the 1st tree arrived at the carpenter’s, he was made into a feed box for animals, placed in a barn and filled with hay. This was not at all what he dreamed of.
The 2nd tree was cut and made into a small fishing boat. His dreams of being a mighty ship and carrying kings had come to an end. The third tree was cut into large pieces and left alone in the dark. The years went by, and the trees forgot about their dreams.

Then one day, a poor man and woman came to the barn. She gave birth, and they placed the baby in the hay in the feed box that was made from the first tree. The man wished that he could have made a crib for the baby, but the manger would have to do. The tree could feel the importance of this event and knew that it held the greatest treasure of all time.

Years later, a group of men got in the fishing boat made from the second tree. One of them was tired and went to sleep. While they were out on the water, a great storm arose, and the tree didn’t think it was strong enough to keep the men safe. The men woke the sleeping man, and he stood and said "Peace," and the storm stopped. At this time, the tree knew that it had carried the King of Kings in its boat.

Finally, a humble man was nailed to the tree and raised in the air to die at the top of a hill. When Sunday came, the tree came to realize that it was strong enough to stand at the top of a hill and be as close to God as possible, because Jesus had been crucified on it.

The moral of this story is that, when things don’t seem to be going your way, always know that God has a greater plan for you. If you place your trust in him, He will give you great gifts. Each of the trees got what they wanted, just not in the way they had imagined but with a divine purpose.

We don’t always know what God’s plans are for us. We just know that His ways are not our ways, but His ways are always best.

The parable is on the religious aspect. On the socio economic point of view, why do we plant and care not only a tree but trees?

First, because of the beauty of the trees! To view a tree is very enjoyable with its multi colored leaves, flowers, and fruits.

Second, planting and caring of trees provide good exercise. It is a science and art. Prevention of the attack of pests and diseases is science. Laying out a plantation is an art.

Third, trees mitigate the effect of strong winds. Trunks and leaves block the speed of wind.

Fourth, it cools the area. A 10 year old tree cools an area equal to one horsepower air condition unit. Trees provide shade and shelter for both man and animal like monkeys and birds.

Fifth, trees conserve the soil as it prevents soil erosion. It serves as water banks when it absorbs water during rainy season and releases water during dry season.

Sixth, trees reduce pollution as it takes in carbon dioxide emitted by vehicles and other engines. On the other hand, trees release oxygen for man to breath.

Seventh, trees provide food like fruits and nuts. Oil can be produced. Trees provide livelihood for any person.

Eight, trees are sources of medicine like Banaba, Guyabano, Coconut, Guava, and others.

Nine, when matured, trees maybe cut and sewn into lumber, manufactured into furniture, use in house construction, bridges, and boat. People may ride in it, pass on it, sit on it, sleep on it, and keep things inside it.

There are other valuable reasons to plant and care the trees. You please add on and enrich the uses of trees.

There are two kinds of trees which are forest trees, and the fruit trees.

Forest trees do not yield edible fruits for men. However, wild animals feast on its fruits. Should I give example of forest trees? Bakhawan, Narra, and others.

I do not need to name fruit trees. You know them. Who does not eat fruits? Want to plant trees? It is very easy. But the test to grow it is in the care. One can plant trees by the hundreds a day but it will only die as fast if not given the required care.

Trees seedlings need area to grow both for root system and foliage. It must be provided with enough moisture until its roots had developed. Weeds must be removed, fenced to prevent destruction from animals. Tree like man is sensitive. Provide its needs, it grows luxuriant and beautiful. Give no care, it dies.

Therefore, plant and care trees for it pays doing it. /MP

Entrepreneurial Farmer

Ambrosio R. Villorente

Retrogression

The return of the ambulant vendors to Toting Reyes Street, Kalibo, Aklan means retrogression. This is backward looking and backward walking.

After the ambulant vendors left Toting Reyes Street five years ago, the area became passable to both vehicles and pedestrians. Now, some of those who advocated for the ambulant vendors to leave Toting Reyes are now opting for their return.

The return of the ambulant vendors to Toting Reyes will enable Kalibo to loss opportunities to advance forward. Once the ambulant vendors return to Toting Reyes St., the enthusiasm and the drive to search for a better market site will subside. This will serve as setback of Kalibo. To allow the return of ambulant vendors to Toting Reyes is a defeatist decision.

Leaders are contented of what is available even if of inferior site. They stunt to explore areas where everybody is agreeable.

After five years of leaving Toting Reyes Street for the exclusive use of pedestrians and vehicles, did it make Kalibo different? Inferior?

Is it correct to say that the present leadership of Kalibo does not want to construct but it only wants to utilize? The number of vehicles running in Kalibo and people in Kalibo have tremendously increased but notice, there is no additional road constructed.
　

Reclassify Aklan

The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Aklan has approved Resolution No. 2010 – 086 to reclassify the Province of Aklan from second to first class province. The reclassification request is based on the Aklan provincial income from Calendar Year (CY) 2005 of P365,434, 927.75 which increased annually until CY 2008 at P650,347,960.26.

This is a good move, a progressive one. The Department of Finance cannot do otherwise but to approve this request.

Blood Banking

It is not only money that is being banked. Blood is being banked as well. Excess money is deposited in a bank to be withdrawn when needed. Likewise, blood can also be deposited in a blood bank maybe operated by a hospital or by the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) operating in a province, Aklan for instance. Anytime a member of the family who deposited blood, and needs it can withdraw where it was deposited.

Hon. Victor Manuel M. Garcia has filed SP Resolution requesting Gov. Carlito S. Marquez budget to finance the putting up of a blood bank in DRSTMH. Based on his estimate, the sum of P7.3 million is needed to procure two brand new blood bank refrigerators, brand new plasma freezer, brand new portable automatic sealer, brand new pharmaceutical refrigerator, brand new blood collection mixer, and other equipment. How about approving it?
　

Another Crown

Congratulations! Madam Vicky Ramos Antonino for your election as Chairman of the Regional (Region VI) Tourism Council. She out voted former Congressman John Orola of Bacolod City during the election on Sept. 30.

This is another crown for Madam Vicky who also co-chairs the Aklan Provincial Tourism Council. /MP

Kalibo Starts Preparation for 2011 Ati-atihan Festival

The Black Beauty Boys, a multi-awarded Kalibo Ati-atihan tribe doing their "sadsad" in Ati-atihan festival in Kalibo.

Preparation for next year’s Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-atihan Festival has officially started with the newly organized Kalibo Sto. Nino Ati-atihan Foundation Incorporated (KASAFI) leading the way.

Kalibo Mayor William Lachica disbanded this year the Kalibo Ati-atihan Management Board (KAMB) which for years organized and managed the annual tradition being held for centuries. Lachica re-organized the management board and converted it into a foundation.

One of the starting points of the preparation is the signing of the memorandum of agreement between the local government and the KASAFI headed by Albert Meñez. Kalibo Parish Vicar General Monsignor Jose Dollete and Efren Trinidad representing the non-government organization witnessed the MOA signing.

The KASAFI composes the different sectors from the business, civic, academe, non-government and religious organizations in Kalibo.

After the MOA signing, Meñez said that they will soon be launching fund-raising activities for the festival.

"The Kalibo Ati-atihan has over the years, attracted and continued to attract companies and organizations to launch or advertise their products and services during the Ati-Atihan festival in January of each year.

"Given the media coverage and the variety of tourists descending on this festival town, advertisers and marketers have found the festival to be an effective medium of raising public awareness and thus increasing their market share," said Meñez. (PNA) /MP