Nice post, its a really cool blog that you have here, keep up the good work, will be back.
Warm Regards
Biby Cletus
Monday, April 30, 2007
fifth edition is out
Well, order na kayo ng sarili ninyong kopya para malaman kung sino sa kanila ang bata ng mga political godfathers, ang pumabor sa VFA na dahilan ng pagkakagahasa kay Nicole, ang pumabor sa bio-fuels act na epektibong humaharang sa implementasyon ng CARP, ang pumabor sa anti-terrorism law na kilala bilang Human Security Act, ang jueteng lord, ang balimbing, at ang tunay.Sa halagang P100, matutunghayan ninyo ang pinaka-bago at ngayon lang mailalabas na mga editorial cartoons.Email lang po kayo sa cartoonskartun@yahoo.com.ph, o magpost kayo dito sa blog.Tenkyu!
'Candidates in Libacao in 2007 Elections'
Alex Dionela
Dateline Libacao
The local candidates in this town in the forthcoming May 14, 2007 elections are as follows: Tibyog Akean Party line-up includes Re-electionist Mayor Charito Navarosa, Vice Mayor Ramon Zapata, SB Members Gualcon Aguila, Tarcesio Nervar, Jerome Legaspi, Edwin Ruiz and Felizardo Ilig, neophytes Aizel Manares-Villorente, Dr. Arturo Zonio and past 3-termer SB Member Paterno Turang, Jr.
On the other hand, the Kusog it Akean Party line-up includes incumbent SB Member Edwin Ramos for Mayor, neophyte Nimrod Ruiz for Vice Mayor, for SB Members are; re-electionist Napoleon Navarosa, ABC President Aniano Zaspa, Magugba Brgy. Captain Juvenal Zante, former SB Member Alberto Zomil, former Alfonso XII Brgy. Captain Donna Ycay-Villorente, Marilou Macavinta-Beltran and neophyte Nazareno Navarosa.
Others include pro-administration independent candidate for SB Member Tolomeo Zaulda, Sr. and Herminio Zapico, a perennial candidate for Vice Mayor.
Before he joined politics, Mayor Navarosa was a security officer of a leading shipping company in Manila and has several business enterprises. He first ran for Mayor in 1998 but lost to former Mayor Roger Esto. He made a return bout in 2001 and won over Esto with only 3 vote margin. An electoral protest ensued which unseated him before that term ended. But in 2004 elections he again won over Esto with an overwhelming vote margin.
Mayoralty bet Edwin Ramos is a former town police chief and a retired police captain. He first ran for SB Member in 2001 elections but lost. He ran again in 2004 elections and won, ranked 5th in the sangguinang bayan race.
Dateline Libacao
The local candidates in this town in the forthcoming May 14, 2007 elections are as follows: Tibyog Akean Party line-up includes Re-electionist Mayor Charito Navarosa, Vice Mayor Ramon Zapata, SB Members Gualcon Aguila, Tarcesio Nervar, Jerome Legaspi, Edwin Ruiz and Felizardo Ilig, neophytes Aizel Manares-Villorente, Dr. Arturo Zonio and past 3-termer SB Member Paterno Turang, Jr.
On the other hand, the Kusog it Akean Party line-up includes incumbent SB Member Edwin Ramos for Mayor, neophyte Nimrod Ruiz for Vice Mayor, for SB Members are; re-electionist Napoleon Navarosa, ABC President Aniano Zaspa, Magugba Brgy. Captain Juvenal Zante, former SB Member Alberto Zomil, former Alfonso XII Brgy. Captain Donna Ycay-Villorente, Marilou Macavinta-Beltran and neophyte Nazareno Navarosa.
Others include pro-administration independent candidate for SB Member Tolomeo Zaulda, Sr. and Herminio Zapico, a perennial candidate for Vice Mayor.
Before he joined politics, Mayor Navarosa was a security officer of a leading shipping company in Manila and has several business enterprises. He first ran for Mayor in 1998 but lost to former Mayor Roger Esto. He made a return bout in 2001 and won over Esto with only 3 vote margin. An electoral protest ensued which unseated him before that term ended. But in 2004 elections he again won over Esto with an overwhelming vote margin.
Mayoralty bet Edwin Ramos is a former town police chief and a retired police captain. He first ran for SB Member in 2001 elections but lost. He ran again in 2004 elections and won, ranked 5th in the sangguinang bayan race.
Rebaldo, Zaraspe face off in RMN debate
Noel Cabobos
KALIBO, Aklan—Politics indeed makes strange bedfellows.This goes true with the mayoral campaign here as former allies – incumbent mayor Raymar Rebaldo and his 2004 runningmate Apol Zaraspe – crossed paths yesterday in the “Candidates Forum” organized by RMN-dyKR and co-sponsored by The Daily Guardian, Kalibo Cable TV and Latte’.
Although the two took potshots at each other because of their differing priorities and concerns, the debate was considered as “civilized,” according to Fr. Isauro David, parish priest of Makato Parish Church, who led the group of panelist composed of Leonardo Agopitac of the Aklan Ati-atihan Chamber of Commerce and Industry and George Calaor of Bayan Muna-Aklan.
Rebaldo, who is running under Tibyog, the ruling local administration party here, and Zaraspe of the United Opposition, highlighted their platforms of government and priorities for this capital town.
One of the mayoralty candidates, William Lachica, also of the opposition, did not show up.
Rebaldo’s concerns and priorities include the continuation of his pro-poor programs; the proposed cityhood of Kalibo; tapping other resources to improve the town’s economy; good governance; and the continuity of a united leadership which he said is a big boost to the development of the municipality.
For his part, Zaraspe zeroed in on giving business establishments tax holidays as incentives to businessmen for boosting this town’s economy; creation of a consultative council composed of various sectors to help draft of beneficial ordinances and in mapping out of general program of actions for the development of this town; and proper relocation of squatters affected by land disputes, especially in the downtown area.
The Candidates Forum, hosted by RMN-dyKR program director and TDG Aklan Bureau chief Jonathan Cabrera, aims to inform the public on the platforms and priorities of candidates.
The dialogue also serves as a vehicle for interaction between the media and sectoral groups concerned for the progress and development of the province.
KALIBO, Aklan—Politics indeed makes strange bedfellows.This goes true with the mayoral campaign here as former allies – incumbent mayor Raymar Rebaldo and his 2004 runningmate Apol Zaraspe – crossed paths yesterday in the “Candidates Forum” organized by RMN-dyKR and co-sponsored by The Daily Guardian, Kalibo Cable TV and Latte’.
Although the two took potshots at each other because of their differing priorities and concerns, the debate was considered as “civilized,” according to Fr. Isauro David, parish priest of Makato Parish Church, who led the group of panelist composed of Leonardo Agopitac of the Aklan Ati-atihan Chamber of Commerce and Industry and George Calaor of Bayan Muna-Aklan.
Rebaldo, who is running under Tibyog, the ruling local administration party here, and Zaraspe of the United Opposition, highlighted their platforms of government and priorities for this capital town.
One of the mayoralty candidates, William Lachica, also of the opposition, did not show up.
Rebaldo’s concerns and priorities include the continuation of his pro-poor programs; the proposed cityhood of Kalibo; tapping other resources to improve the town’s economy; good governance; and the continuity of a united leadership which he said is a big boost to the development of the municipality.
For his part, Zaraspe zeroed in on giving business establishments tax holidays as incentives to businessmen for boosting this town’s economy; creation of a consultative council composed of various sectors to help draft of beneficial ordinances and in mapping out of general program of actions for the development of this town; and proper relocation of squatters affected by land disputes, especially in the downtown area.
The Candidates Forum, hosted by RMN-dyKR program director and TDG Aklan Bureau chief Jonathan Cabrera, aims to inform the public on the platforms and priorities of candidates.
The dialogue also serves as a vehicle for interaction between the media and sectoral groups concerned for the progress and development of the province.
from the readers
On behalf of the group from Madyaas Heritage Foundaton and kalibutan@yahoogroups.com, we would like to congratulate our very own Anthony M. Mabasa.
--- Elmar M. Gomez
elmarmgomez2003@yahoo.com
--- Elmar M. Gomez
elmarmgomez2003@yahoo.com
Sunday, April 29, 2007
Congratulations to the eight Outstanding Aklanon Awardees
1.) Multi-awarded high school teacher Josette Biyo (Science) was honored with a minor planet for winning the 2002 Intel International Science and Engineering Fair in Louisville, Kentucky.
Her asteroid, christened 13241 Biyo was discovered in 1998 by Linear, a robotic telescope in Socorro, New Mexico, operated by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Lincoln Laboratory.
2.) Clarina Reloj-Dela Cruz (Technology Research) of the University of Houston captured first prize in the worldwide student competition of the 2006 50th Magnetism and Magnetic Materials Conference may one day provide faster, more efficient access to data, music and movies in such hand-held devices as MP3 players and cellular phones
3.)Philippine Army Staff Sergeant Blas Fernandez (Military) is the Community Affairs Non-Commissioned Officer of the 63rd Infantry, 8th Infantry Divison, Catubig, Northern Samar.
He was one of the Ten Outstanding Soldiers of the Philippines under the Enlisted Personnel Category -- a search sponsored by the Metrobank Foundation and the Rotary Club of Makati in recognition of and gratitude to the gallantry of select members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in preserving the country’s sovereignty.He effectively implemented the Army Literacy Patrol System (ALPS) program of the AFP wherein the ALPS classes he handled had been a consistent winner in the Dep-Ed sponsored competition for the Outstanding Literacy program in the regional and national level.
Her asteroid, christened 13241 Biyo was discovered in 1998 by Linear, a robotic telescope in Socorro, New Mexico, operated by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Lincoln Laboratory.
2.) Clarina Reloj-Dela Cruz (Technology Research) of the University of Houston captured first prize in the worldwide student competition of the 2006 50th Magnetism and Magnetic Materials Conference may one day provide faster, more efficient access to data, music and movies in such hand-held devices as MP3 players and cellular phones
3.)Philippine Army Staff Sergeant Blas Fernandez (Military) is the Community Affairs Non-Commissioned Officer of the 63rd Infantry, 8th Infantry Divison, Catubig, Northern Samar.
He was one of the Ten Outstanding Soldiers of the Philippines under the Enlisted Personnel Category -- a search sponsored by the Metrobank Foundation and the Rotary Club of Makati in recognition of and gratitude to the gallantry of select members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) in preserving the country’s sovereignty.He effectively implemented the Army Literacy Patrol System (ALPS) program of the AFP wherein the ALPS classes he handled had been a consistent winner in the Dep-Ed sponsored competition for the Outstanding Literacy program in the regional and national level.
4.)Justice Arsenio Solidum (Judiciary) is the former Judge of the Court of First Instance of Manila and presently Justice of the Court of Appeals.
5.)Anthony Mabasa (Business and Industry) is the Tollways Management Corporation president and CEO, operator of the 84-kilometer world-class North Luzon Expressway. After taking over TMC on February 2005, he partnered with Automobile Association Philippines (AAP), a non-profit organization with an advocacy in safety driving and proper care for vehicles.
6.)Ambassador Teresita Vega-Berner (Foreign Service) is the former Philippine charge d’ Affaires to Italy and Director, Foreign Service Institute of the Department of Foreign Affairs. She is presently the chief of mission, class II, as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of India, with concurrent jurisdiction over Nepal.
7.)Evelyn Meren-Kimpo (Education), first awardee from Banga Elementary School in Banga, Aklan where she teaches English to Grade 6 pupils and has been teaching for almost 38 years, is one of the 2006 outstanding teachers chosen by the Metrobank Foundation for serving as models of excellence in their profession.
8.)Odon Bandiola (Community Journalism), a former correspondent of Philippine Daily Inquirer and Panay News and former president of Aklan Press Club, is presently the Secretary to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Aklan.
Obituary
Dr. Oscar S. Irisari had suffered a stroke last Tuesday, April 17, 2007 and died Monday, April 23rd. He was born to spouses Gualberto A. Irisari and Sofia Franco Solidum on November 11, 1942 in Ibajay, Aklan, the Philippines. Oscar retired from his OB-GYN practice in Moundsville, West Virginia.
He finished his grade and high school educations at Ibajay Elementary School and Ibajay Academy respectively; earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from University of Sto. Tomas, in Manila, in 1966 and after passing medical board exam, immigrated to the United States.
In 1967 be joined the St. Vincent Medical Center staff in Staten Island, NY as intern. He had his general practice residency at Lower Bucks Hospital, Bristol, PA in 1968-69. Specialized in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the Brooksdale Hospital Center, Brooklyn, NY. He and his wife, who is also an OB-GYN, went on private practice establishing their clinic in Moundsville, WV.
He is survived by his wife Lisa M. Sison formerly of Angono, Rizal; by their three chidren - Eugene, a lawyer in Washington DC, daughters Liezl, who is a Fellow in Gynecology and Alysha who has Masters in Art; by daughter-in-law Peachy, two grandsons, Andrew and Alex and son-in-law, Eric. We will all miss him and his forever gigling smile.
Visitation will be at 2 P.M. to 4 P.M. and 6 P.M. to 8 P.M. Friday, April 27, 2007 at the Altmeyer Funeral Home, Lutes & Kirby-Vance Chapel, 118 Grant Ave., Moundsville, where vigil services will be held at 7:30 P.M.
Memorial Services, Catholic Burial Mass will be celebrated at 11:30 A.M.. Saturday, April 28, 2007 at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, Moundsville. Interment in Mount Calvary Cemetery, Wheeling.
In lieu flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Donate Life America and the American Diabetes Association.
Oscar’s family would like to thank everyone for the tremendous outpouring of prayers and love during this difficult time.
Resort managers and employees urged to be vigilant
Jun Ariolo N. Aguirre
Kalibo, Aklan- The National Labor Relations Commission urged resort owners, managers and employees to be vigilant and know their respective labor rights as the nation celebrates Labor Day in May 1.
In an interview, Virgilio Bautista of the NLRC-Kalibo said that in the previous years many employees and laborers attain minimum standard of wages from their respective employers because they themselves are not aware of their basic rights as laborers.
"Many business managers often took advantaged of the employees for not being vigilant of their rights because they know (business managers) the employees could be easily threatened to be replace by another applicant if they become vigilant in their respective working places," Bautista said.
Citing the experience of the NLRC in the province, he said that almost eighty percent of those labor cases filed in their office came from Boracay Island mostly of illegal dismissal.
"It is just unfortunate that many of those owners who were complained of were foreigners who are investing in the country. Usually, the foreigners were surprised when they recieved notification that one of their employees filed a case against them," Bautista said.
"It was learned that many of the Filipino managers are at fault in the labor cases because they want to 'sipsip' with the foreigners who owned the business thinking that several of their employeers could be easily tricked.
"Some Filipino managers doesnt care of giving out bonuses such as 13th month pay to their respective employees thinking that they could save huge amount of money in the business. But they are wrong," Bautista said.
"We are strictly encouraging the practice of not giving out the wages due to the employees because it turns-off foreign investors for Boracay because of the labor deceptions being practiced by several Filipino managers," he added.
To ensure that othe labor rights will be dessiminated among resort managers and employees for the province, the NLRC opens its landline numbers for all to inquire about their respective labor rights and encouraged laborers to file cases against their employees
Also, the hotline aimed to explain to business managers what are their respective obligations for their employees.
Friday, April 27, 2007
“Celebrities” grace Aklan’s 1st dog show
Kalibo, Aklan –“Celebrities” gathered together on April 26 in a show in Kalibo – Piolo was there, and so were Sandara, Zanjoe, Sam, Marimar, Bamboo, Sunshine and Lucy; even the two Pinoy Big Brother housemates were there, Tina and Bruce. They all graced the early morning show – one of the new features in celebration of Aklan’s 51st anniversary as a separate province from Capiz – a dog show, and yes, the celebrities mentioned above were the stars – they are dogs.
At least 60 of them were entered by their owners to the dog show which involved coming up the makeshift stage in front of the Provincial Capitol for the audience – and the judges to see who had the best coat, the friendliest, the cutest puppy, the most obedient, best dressed, best senior and best native.
The dog show was the first ever to be held in Aklan, and this was to generate awareness and encourage dog owners to be responsible pet owners as well as to give free anti-rabies vaccines to dogs who had never been vaccinated or those scheduled to have their regular vaccinations for this year.
Dogs of all sizes were brought to the show, and many of the audience were amazed to see and to know that in Aklan, many residents own dogs of different breeds. Pet owners came with their Rootwiellers, Pittbulls, Chow Chow, Labradors, Japanese Spitzes, mongrels, Rosset Hounds, Siberian Huskies, Shih Tzus, Dalmatian, Doberman, Mini Pinchers, Golden Retrievers, Dachshunds, Belgian Malinicus, American Bulldogs, Askals, Poodles, German Shepherds, English Bulldogs, etc.
The biggest hit was Bruno, an 8-month-old Chow Chow owned by Emelyn Salazar who was adjudged Grand Champion and with the Best Coat, while Dusty, a Siberian Husky owned by Butch Lachica, was first runner-up and also adjudged to be most friendly; and Kirby, a dachshund owned by Gabriel Briones, second runner up.
Adjudged the cutest puppy was Gwapa, a one-year old Shih Tzu owned by Mildred Peralta; Most Obedient, Lucy, a 1and a half year-old Siberian Husky owned by Butch Lachica, Jr.,; Best Dressed, Sanjo, a 2 year-old Shi Tzu owned by Luningning Isberto and Best Native, Bark, a 4 and a half year-old native mongrel owned by Merlyn Mabasa.
The dog show was a big hit and it was also an opportunity for interested parties to know that caring for a dog especially an extra-ordinary breed is very expensive. Most of the dogs only eat dog food which cost more or less P1,500 a sack; you have to bathe them with special dog soaps and shampoos; and you have to take them for monthly check ups at the animal clinic. Dog consultation, according to one owner, costs P500.00 per visit. Puppies are also very expensive. Bruno’s owner said the Chow Chow was bought as a puppy for P35,000.00; while the Siberian Huskies were bought for P25,000.00 each. When these dogs have puppies in Aklan, a male puppy will be sold for P15,000 while a female will be sold for P18,000.00. Nemo, a Belgian Malinicus is now being trained to be a K 9. Nemo’s father, according to the trainer, is already working at the Kalibo Airport as a K 9.
Records of the Office of the Provincial Veterinarian here, headed by Dr. Gervase Radislao, show that as of February of this year, three persons already died due to rabies. OPVET also reported that 1,172 Aklanons had been bitten by dogs in 2006.
With the dog show, OPVET wanted to emphasize that taking care of dogs is not just simply feeding them but caring for them, bathing them, leashing them and having them vaccinated against rabies. The office also stressed that a pet owner has to take care of his dogs notwithstanding the breed of the dogs, be it native askals or foreign breed.
Currently, Aklan has a total of 55,312 heads of dogs and OPVET, under its Rabies Prevention and Control Program targets to vaccinate 80% of these dogs to eliminate rabies and make Aklan a rabies-free province.
OPVET records show that only 7,671 dogs out of the total population were vaccinated, or 13.8% out of the 80% target as the supply of vaccines is limited and most municipalities have no budget for this program. To attain the 80% target, dogs vaccinated should number 44,249.
It is seen that with the awareness campaign brought about by the dog show and with many dog owners who had their dogs vaccinated on the spot, OPVET records will register a higher vaccination percentage, Aklan will soon be rabies-free and Aklan dog owners would be more responsible in caring for their pets. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)
At least 60 of them were entered by their owners to the dog show which involved coming up the makeshift stage in front of the Provincial Capitol for the audience – and the judges to see who had the best coat, the friendliest, the cutest puppy, the most obedient, best dressed, best senior and best native.
The dog show was the first ever to be held in Aklan, and this was to generate awareness and encourage dog owners to be responsible pet owners as well as to give free anti-rabies vaccines to dogs who had never been vaccinated or those scheduled to have their regular vaccinations for this year.
Dogs of all sizes were brought to the show, and many of the audience were amazed to see and to know that in Aklan, many residents own dogs of different breeds. Pet owners came with their Rootwiellers, Pittbulls, Chow Chow, Labradors, Japanese Spitzes, mongrels, Rosset Hounds, Siberian Huskies, Shih Tzus, Dalmatian, Doberman, Mini Pinchers, Golden Retrievers, Dachshunds, Belgian Malinicus, American Bulldogs, Askals, Poodles, German Shepherds, English Bulldogs, etc.
The biggest hit was Bruno, an 8-month-old Chow Chow owned by Emelyn Salazar who was adjudged Grand Champion and with the Best Coat, while Dusty, a Siberian Husky owned by Butch Lachica, was first runner-up and also adjudged to be most friendly; and Kirby, a dachshund owned by Gabriel Briones, second runner up.
Adjudged the cutest puppy was Gwapa, a one-year old Shih Tzu owned by Mildred Peralta; Most Obedient, Lucy, a 1and a half year-old Siberian Husky owned by Butch Lachica, Jr.,; Best Dressed, Sanjo, a 2 year-old Shi Tzu owned by Luningning Isberto and Best Native, Bark, a 4 and a half year-old native mongrel owned by Merlyn Mabasa.
The dog show was a big hit and it was also an opportunity for interested parties to know that caring for a dog especially an extra-ordinary breed is very expensive. Most of the dogs only eat dog food which cost more or less P1,500 a sack; you have to bathe them with special dog soaps and shampoos; and you have to take them for monthly check ups at the animal clinic. Dog consultation, according to one owner, costs P500.00 per visit. Puppies are also very expensive. Bruno’s owner said the Chow Chow was bought as a puppy for P35,000.00; while the Siberian Huskies were bought for P25,000.00 each. When these dogs have puppies in Aklan, a male puppy will be sold for P15,000 while a female will be sold for P18,000.00. Nemo, a Belgian Malinicus is now being trained to be a K 9. Nemo’s father, according to the trainer, is already working at the Kalibo Airport as a K 9.
Records of the Office of the Provincial Veterinarian here, headed by Dr. Gervase Radislao, show that as of February of this year, three persons already died due to rabies. OPVET also reported that 1,172 Aklanons had been bitten by dogs in 2006.
With the dog show, OPVET wanted to emphasize that taking care of dogs is not just simply feeding them but caring for them, bathing them, leashing them and having them vaccinated against rabies. The office also stressed that a pet owner has to take care of his dogs notwithstanding the breed of the dogs, be it native askals or foreign breed.
Currently, Aklan has a total of 55,312 heads of dogs and OPVET, under its Rabies Prevention and Control Program targets to vaccinate 80% of these dogs to eliminate rabies and make Aklan a rabies-free province.
OPVET records show that only 7,671 dogs out of the total population were vaccinated, or 13.8% out of the 80% target as the supply of vaccines is limited and most municipalities have no budget for this program. To attain the 80% target, dogs vaccinated should number 44,249.
It is seen that with the awareness campaign brought about by the dog show and with many dog owners who had their dogs vaccinated on the spot, OPVET records will register a higher vaccination percentage, Aklan will soon be rabies-free and Aklan dog owners would be more responsible in caring for their pets. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Zealander consultant in Aklan to study eco-tourism program
Jun Ariolo N. Aguirre
Boracay Island- New Zealander consultant specializing in formulation of eco-tourism program and projects are now here in Aklan to study possibility of promoting eco-tourism programs for the province and in Boracay Island.
Lisa Choegyal, a tourism resource consultant limited base in Katmandu, Nepal was personally fetch by Vice Gubernatorial candidate Billy Calizo recently in order to ensure that eco-tourism potentials in the province will be presented to the New Zealander.
In a press conference held Wednesday afternoon, Choegyal bared plans of promoting cultural eco-tourism program in the province by means of coordinating with the ati’s (aeta's) in the resort island if they are willing to be part of the eco-tourism ventures.
“I have just arrived in Aklan, I still have to see personally Boracay but from what I have heard the resort island is far from the supposed standard of eco-tourism,” Choegyal said.
Choegyal have been also part as consultant for the formulation of the national eco-tourism framework under the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the Department of Tourism.
Meanwhile, despite in the unstable peace and order situation in the country following the death of American peace corps volunteer Julie Campbell in Northern Philippines Choegyal said they will still continue their work in the country.
(jun n. aguirre photo)
Boracay Island- New Zealander consultant specializing in formulation of eco-tourism program and projects are now here in Aklan to study possibility of promoting eco-tourism programs for the province and in Boracay Island.
Lisa Choegyal, a tourism resource consultant limited base in Katmandu, Nepal was personally fetch by Vice Gubernatorial candidate Billy Calizo recently in order to ensure that eco-tourism potentials in the province will be presented to the New Zealander.
In a press conference held Wednesday afternoon, Choegyal bared plans of promoting cultural eco-tourism program in the province by means of coordinating with the ati’s (aeta's) in the resort island if they are willing to be part of the eco-tourism ventures.
“I have just arrived in Aklan, I still have to see personally Boracay but from what I have heard the resort island is far from the supposed standard of eco-tourism,” Choegyal said.
Choegyal have been also part as consultant for the formulation of the national eco-tourism framework under the Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the Department of Tourism.
Meanwhile, despite in the unstable peace and order situation in the country following the death of American peace corps volunteer Julie Campbell in Northern Philippines Choegyal said they will still continue their work in the country.
(jun n. aguirre photo)
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
COMELEC-Kalibo to use new ballot boxes
Kalibo, Aklan -- New ballot boxes will be used for the May 2007 elections in Kalibo.
Francisco Palomar, newly-assigned Election Officer of Aklan’s capital town said at least 175 new ballot boxes will soon be received by the municipality from COMELEC-Manila. He said this is to augment the number of the current ballot boxes because some cannot be used as they contain materials/old ballots which are subjects of election dispute.
Palomar gave the assurance that Kalibo is already prepared for the coming elections and foresees a peaceful and orderly one in this town and in the whole province, with the recent signing of the peace covenant of Aklan candidates which accomplished a 100% attendance.
To ensure that campaign posters are also properly displayed, COMELEC-Kalibo and the Philippine National Police headed by Kalibo PNP Chief Arnold Ardiente went around the town to scrape off or detach illegally - placed posters, Palomar revealed.
Poblacion Kalibo’s common poster areas are located at the Kalibo Plaza in front of the Cathedral and at Roxas Avenue, while barangays have each one common poster areas.
According to Palomar, all Kalibo barangays observed the posting of campaign materials in common poster areas except Mobo, a barangay across the Aklan River.
Tumbagahan was initially tranfered to Dumarao, Capiz as part of COMELEC’s regulation that an election officer could not stay more than four (4) years in a certain municipality.
Tumbagahan served as Kalibo’s Election Officer for four years and concurrently as OIC-PES of COMELEC-Aklan before her transfer to Dumarao.
Before her COMELEC-Aklan comeback, Tumbagahan found it hard to commute to Dumarao to render her duties as Election Officer and also to report to the provincial office in Aklan to function as OIC-PES.
Tumbagahan also emphasized the preparedness of Aklan for the forthcoming elections. She reminded all registered voters to look for their names in the lists now being posted in bulletin boards in their respective munipalities so they will know their specific precincts.
Tumbagahan revealed that some 50 print and broadcast personalities had been accredited by COMELEC-Aklan for coverage of the May 2007 elections in the province. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)
Monday, April 23, 2007
CHILDREN AND WIDOWS OF SLAIN JOURNALISTS JOIN SUMMER WORKSHOP
Families of slain journalists joined a three-day workshop of sharing, healing and learning organized by the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines held at the Subic Bay Freeport from April 21-22, 2007.
The 2007 Saranggola Summer workshop, consisting of field trips and psychosocial sessions, was joined by over 40 children and wives and a mother of journalists slain from 1987 onwards. All are beneficiaries of a scholarship program managed by the NUJP, jointly with the British-basedBevil Mabey Study Foundation and the Makati-based Kasangga sa Kaunlaran Inc.
The workshop culminated in a lunch with the scholarship sponsors and members of the media.British ambassador Peter Beckingham, in a message to the participants, said that "my heart, and that of everyone in the embassy, goes out to the relatives, especially the spouses and children, of journalists killed in the Philippines.
He added that "the appalling loss of life, and the sufferingwhich follows, is something no one should have to endure."More inspiring words were shared by NUJP vice general-secretary Nonoy Espina, Mabey and Johnson Philippines General Manager David Watson and Kasangga president Jose Tumbokon.
Most participants expressed their appreciation for the activity. "I made new friends and they laugh at my jokes," said John Kelvin Binungcal, 12-year old son of Remate correspondent Romy Binungcal, killed in Bataan in 2004.
"It made me even even more determined to pursue journalism as a career," said Princess Mae Palo, 18-year-old daughter of radio broadcaster Leo Palo, killed in Davao in 1987.
"Now I realize that I am not alone," said Cecil Ramos, mother of two children and widow of reporter Robert Ramos who was killed in November 2005.
Several of the widows demanded that the government authorities move decisively to investigate and prosecute the killings of journalists.
"The government has to act. We don't want anymore journalists killed," said Elvie Sanchez, widow of reporter Romeo Sanchez, killed in Baguio City in 2005.
This is the second Saranggola summer workshop held by the NUJP for the beneficiaries of its scholarship program, with main sponsor as the Bevil Mabey Study Foundation.
This year's activity was hosted by the NUJP chapter in Subic and Olongapo. The Children's Rehabilitation Center, anon-government agency accredited with the Department of Social Welfare and Administration, prepared the modules and facilitated the workshops.
The 2007 Saranggola Summer workshop, consisting of field trips and psychosocial sessions, was joined by over 40 children and wives and a mother of journalists slain from 1987 onwards. All are beneficiaries of a scholarship program managed by the NUJP, jointly with the British-basedBevil Mabey Study Foundation and the Makati-based Kasangga sa Kaunlaran Inc.
The workshop culminated in a lunch with the scholarship sponsors and members of the media.British ambassador Peter Beckingham, in a message to the participants, said that "my heart, and that of everyone in the embassy, goes out to the relatives, especially the spouses and children, of journalists killed in the Philippines.
He added that "the appalling loss of life, and the sufferingwhich follows, is something no one should have to endure."More inspiring words were shared by NUJP vice general-secretary Nonoy Espina, Mabey and Johnson Philippines General Manager David Watson and Kasangga president Jose Tumbokon.
Most participants expressed their appreciation for the activity. "I made new friends and they laugh at my jokes," said John Kelvin Binungcal, 12-year old son of Remate correspondent Romy Binungcal, killed in Bataan in 2004.
"It made me even even more determined to pursue journalism as a career," said Princess Mae Palo, 18-year-old daughter of radio broadcaster Leo Palo, killed in Davao in 1987.
"Now I realize that I am not alone," said Cecil Ramos, mother of two children and widow of reporter Robert Ramos who was killed in November 2005.
Several of the widows demanded that the government authorities move decisively to investigate and prosecute the killings of journalists.
"The government has to act. We don't want anymore journalists killed," said Elvie Sanchez, widow of reporter Romeo Sanchez, killed in Baguio City in 2005.
This is the second Saranggola summer workshop held by the NUJP for the beneficiaries of its scholarship program, with main sponsor as the Bevil Mabey Study Foundation.
This year's activity was hosted by the NUJP chapter in Subic and Olongapo. The Children's Rehabilitation Center, anon-government agency accredited with the Department of Social Welfare and Administration, prepared the modules and facilitated the workshops.
Thursday, April 19, 2007
Aklan’s poor students work this summer for school tuition
Kalibo, Aklan – The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) here, in coordination with the provincial government, has once more opened an opportunity to poor students to work this summer so they will have money for enrolment this school year.
The scheme is called Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES).
SPES, according to Vivian R. Solano, Provincial Employment Service Office (PESO) Manager here, is better known as Summer Job and was approved by the Senate on
Aklan Governor Carlito Marquez said the summer job is an opportunity for students to work in local government units and schools so they could earn money from the DOLE and the provincial government to help augment their financial needs come school opening.
At a meeting of SPES coordinators of the different towns, summer jobs were equally divided among the 17 towns and 2 schools within 30 working days which started Aprill 11 and would end May 25.
Marlyn Hernandez, DOLE Regional SPES Focal Person emphasized that students and SPES coordinators must complete registration requirements before submission to DOLE office in Iloilo City.
Solano revealed that some 4,790 Aklanon students had been helped and more are still being helped in their studies by this project through the DOLE, provincial government and PESO-Aklan.
It is seen that with this sustained program of the national and provincial government of helping poor but deserving students obtain college education, poverty in the countryside will be lessened and these young people will have better chances of finding employment.
In a recent statement of Cabinet Secretary Ricardo Saludo, he revealed that the incidence of poverty in the country has continuously been decreasing due to the bullish economy and the progress-oriented and pro-poor programs under the Arroyo administration.
Saludo said over three million Filipinos have so far risen from extreme poverty since 2000, citing a report by the World Bank, the world’s leading institution for development.
The WB estimates that by the end of this year, only some 8.4 percent of Filipinos would be living on a dollar a day – the standard by which the said institution measures poverty. (Venus G. Villanueva/PIA)
from the readers
If Kalibo Atiatihan Management Board (KAMB) outsourced the professional management of AtiAtihan, then all in Kalibo will benefit more. Ati Atihan competes with other festivals for the disposable incomes of the tourists here and abroad. If KAMB continues their myopic and selfish view of AtiAtihan, even they personally will continue to earn less and less every passing day. They should realized that 100% of nothing is still lower than 10% of something.
Outsourced now. Increased the revenue of KAMB, ergo Kalibo LGU. Increase total revenue for the business community resulting into more money in your pockets, politicians. This is one opportunity that the selfish interests of politicians aligns with the greater good of the community.
anonymous
Outsourced now. Increased the revenue of KAMB, ergo Kalibo LGU. Increase total revenue for the business community resulting into more money in your pockets, politicians. This is one opportunity that the selfish interests of politicians aligns with the greater good of the community.
anonymous
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
Business atmosphere, ripe in Kalibo
Kalibo, Aklan – The atmosphere of business is ripe in Kalibo with its improved roadways, rehabilitated parks and the flooding of students from other towns and provinces to the various educational institutions offering disciplines that are found in university curriculums of major cities.
With a population that more than doubles during the day, Kalibo is able to keep up with the many needs in infrastructure and services despite limited resources.
Kalibo’s peace and order has been one of the reasons why many businessmen and entrepreneurs are enticed to invest and with the rising population of students from other towns and provinces, businesses offering services and selling goods and other items in demand to the younger generation continues to sprout like mushrooms.
This has been made possible under the able leadership of its multi-awarded Mayor who uses his Executive Agenda as the basis of the many projects and programs implemented including the most sought after tourism package “Manggad it Kalibo” (Wealth of Kalibo) where educational tours from different groups, local government units, national government agencies and educational institutions and has been a subject for replication in other parts of the country. Terence Toriano
With a population that more than doubles during the day, Kalibo is able to keep up with the many needs in infrastructure and services despite limited resources.
Kalibo’s peace and order has been one of the reasons why many businessmen and entrepreneurs are enticed to invest and with the rising population of students from other towns and provinces, businesses offering services and selling goods and other items in demand to the younger generation continues to sprout like mushrooms.
This has been made possible under the able leadership of its multi-awarded Mayor who uses his Executive Agenda as the basis of the many projects and programs implemented including the most sought after tourism package “Manggad it Kalibo” (Wealth of Kalibo) where educational tours from different groups, local government units, national government agencies and educational institutions and has been a subject for replication in other parts of the country. Terence Toriano
Kalibo, the new educational hub of northern Panay
Kalibo, Aklan – Kalibo is making its mark as the educational hub of Northern Panay where students coming from as far as Lambunao town of Iloilo and Libertad town in Northern Antique are studying in the various courses offered by colleges in Kalibo as class opening draws near.
The population of college students continues to mushroom as evident by the growing businesses catering to the needs of students from commercial laundry services to Internet cafés.
This recent wave of educational migration is widely complemented by LGU Kalibo under its present administration with road and street improvements and continues inspections of establishments to provide a safe environment for students.
To compliment LGU-Kalibo, Kalibo PNP conducts constant patrols around the town specifically to areas of interest that is frequented by students at night to maintain police visibility and conduct preemptive measures to prevent crime. Terence Toriano
The population of college students continues to mushroom as evident by the growing businesses catering to the needs of students from commercial laundry services to Internet cafés.
This recent wave of educational migration is widely complemented by LGU Kalibo under its present administration with road and street improvements and continues inspections of establishments to provide a safe environment for students.
To compliment LGU-Kalibo, Kalibo PNP conducts constant patrols around the town specifically to areas of interest that is frequented by students at night to maintain police visibility and conduct preemptive measures to prevent crime. Terence Toriano
More Aklanons disappointed over Boracay's current condition
Kudos!!! Well Said!!!! Lumaki po ako at ipinanganak sa Malay, Aklan at talagang malayo na ang Boracay sa dati nitong kagandahan. I pity younger Aklanon generation who were not able to experience Boracay in its virginity, all because of greed and avarice of local politician and businessmen many of whom are not from Boracay nor Aklan.
anonymous
The blame should be placed with the Malay local government. There are rules and regulations in environment, building codes and many others. How have they been enforced by the LGU? Short sightedness and greed rein. The candles of Boracay are lighted at both ends. Sino ba ang ka teammates ng current administration ng Malay? They do not have the K to pontificate on environment.
anonymous
How is Isla di Capri or Cancun when they are also at that same stage in the business? We need to do an apples to apples comparison to be fair.
Ha..ha...ha...ha... you mean that Boracay will attain "world class" status in due time given the "species" of local and national leader the Philippines has? I was born and raised in aklan so I know that governance and quality of life in aklan depreciated tremendously, as compared during the 1970's. Have you seen boracay during that time? Boracay considerably diminish its beauty and it cannot be recovered anymore.
anonymous
NOISY, UPROARIOUS BORACAY
MANY visitors and tourists find Boracay a very noisy and rackety place, especially during nighttime.
It is no longer a beautiful place where people could enjoy the beauty and serenity of nature.The bars, restaurants and disco places play their music instruments and bands almost 24 hours, non-stop, and the air is so polluted with cantankerous and irritable sounds that almost drive people to lose their senses.In other world-class resorts, you could not find this kind of noisy environment.Normal people enjoy the place, not the cracking sound and pandemonium.We have observed that middle-aged and elderly tourists do not want to go to Boracay anymore simply because they abhor the modern Babel. We do not know if there is an ordinance in the island that prohibits loud and noisy music.We do not know either if the local and national government is concerned about this problem.
anonymous 1
World Class? Basurahan lang at sakayan hindi na ma-ayos-ayos!!!
Anonymous 2
Now you are talking. World class is different from world famous. I agree with you as to comparison between Isla di Capri or Cancun with Boracay vis-a-vis world class, Boracay really really pales in comparison. Vision makes a difference. Also at this time of Boracay of its lifetime in the business, how is Isla di Capri or Cancun when they are also at that same stage in the business? We need to do an apples to apples comparison to be fair.
Anonymous 3
anonymous
The blame should be placed with the Malay local government. There are rules and regulations in environment, building codes and many others. How have they been enforced by the LGU? Short sightedness and greed rein. The candles of Boracay are lighted at both ends. Sino ba ang ka teammates ng current administration ng Malay? They do not have the K to pontificate on environment.
anonymous
How is Isla di Capri or Cancun when they are also at that same stage in the business? We need to do an apples to apples comparison to be fair.
Ha..ha...ha...ha... you mean that Boracay will attain "world class" status in due time given the "species" of local and national leader the Philippines has? I was born and raised in aklan so I know that governance and quality of life in aklan depreciated tremendously, as compared during the 1970's. Have you seen boracay during that time? Boracay considerably diminish its beauty and it cannot be recovered anymore.
anonymous
NOISY, UPROARIOUS BORACAY
MANY visitors and tourists find Boracay a very noisy and rackety place, especially during nighttime.
It is no longer a beautiful place where people could enjoy the beauty and serenity of nature.The bars, restaurants and disco places play their music instruments and bands almost 24 hours, non-stop, and the air is so polluted with cantankerous and irritable sounds that almost drive people to lose their senses.In other world-class resorts, you could not find this kind of noisy environment.Normal people enjoy the place, not the cracking sound and pandemonium.We have observed that middle-aged and elderly tourists do not want to go to Boracay anymore simply because they abhor the modern Babel. We do not know if there is an ordinance in the island that prohibits loud and noisy music.We do not know either if the local and national government is concerned about this problem.
anonymous 1
World Class? Basurahan lang at sakayan hindi na ma-ayos-ayos!!!
Anonymous 2
Now you are talking. World class is different from world famous. I agree with you as to comparison between Isla di Capri or Cancun with Boracay vis-a-vis world class, Boracay really really pales in comparison. Vision makes a difference. Also at this time of Boracay of its lifetime in the business, how is Isla di Capri or Cancun when they are also at that same stage in the business? We need to do an apples to apples comparison to be fair.
Anonymous 3
Monday, April 16, 2007
from the readers
Boracay has a long way to go to beat Isla di Capri, or Cancun before it can claim as the world's One Number tourist destination. The phrase "world-famous Boracay" is known only in the world of Pilipinos themselves. Ask 100 individuals you meet in the streets of New York City, or Chicago or London or Paris or Rome etc., or perhaps even Tokyo, if they know of Boracay ... I am almost sure, could be no more than 5% of them have heard of the "world-famous Boracay", much more know about it.
Amen to that ... enough said.
anonymous
Amen to that ... enough said.
anonymous
Marquez-Bañares ‘word war’ heats up
KALIBO, Aklan – The word war between a newspaper publisher here and Governor Carlito Marquez exacerbated after the former claimed that he has personal knowledge of the latter’s alleged extra-marital affairs.
In an interview with Bombohanay Bigtime anchorman Jan Allen Ascaño, Jimmy Bañares, publisher of People’s Chronicle, claimed that Marquez is maintaining an illicit affair with his househelp.
Bañares did not elaborate but said he that the governor’s alleged paramour is now staying in Balete town.
Bañares on Friday filed a blotter report with the Kalibo PNP station accusing Marquez of threatening and detaining the former at the Capitol’s guesthouse Thursday.
The publisher said he was at the guesthouse to collect some P3,000 in advertisement fee.
Bañares also claimed in the blotter that the governor called him an “assassin” while telling the Capitol guards that they can shoot him anytime.
Marquez denied Bañares accusations saying he has even helping the publisher’s paper “out of mercy”.
HEATING UP
In his interview yesterday, Bañares said Marquez may have been outraged by his investigation into the latter’s alleged extra-marital affair.
In his meeting with members of the Aklan press Friday, Marquez strongly denied having a paramour. He even joked that “Kung tsiks lang damo to tsiks sa
FILING CHARGES
Unperturbed by the possibility that the governor might get back at him, Bañares told The Daily Guardian yesterday that he is pursuing charges against the governor for detaining and threatening him inside the Capitol’s guesthouse last week.
He said he already hired a Manila-based lawyer who will help him file the necessary charges.
“There’s no backing out. I am pursuing the charges against Gov. Marquez, whatever happens,” he said.
AUMA explains side
The hullabaloo that resulted from the alleged detention of Bañares has caught the local media in the crossfire.
In a resolution issued yesterday, the Aklan United Media Association (AUMA) clarified that its member entities have nothing to do with Bañares’ conflict with the governor.
“AUMA would like to set the record straight that it has nothing to do with the operations of Mr. Bañares and he can never be sanctioned or put under investigation by the Association as he is not a member and had never been a member of the Association,” the resolution said.
The resolution added: “AUMA would like to further set the record straight that it is supportive of the ideals and spirit of the covenant for honest, orderly and peaceful elections. And that the AUMA vows to uphold decency in its reportage of events vis-à-vis campaign and election matters as well as help in the preservation of peace and order during the May 14 election.”
The association also denied insinuations made by Marquez and some politicians that the Aklan media is being used in dirty tactics of their opponents.
AUMA said they do no want to create more conflicts and harm those who are not involved in the controversy.
from the readers
Whoa! This means that Kalibo and other towns enroute to Boracay would be overcrowded in the years to come! This also means that the cost of living will shoot up beyond the reach of local people not to mention the price of real estate properties along the way. If the people of Aklan won't start protecting themselves from the influx of foreign retirees, it would be catastrophic to to the local inhabitants who cannot simply compete with the purchasing powers of these foreigners!
Perhaps, it would force local town or provincial officials to start making plans for waste disposal, drainage and sewerage system! I would just be so impossible to modernize the locality if waste disposals would become the biggest problem that would ultimately choke the local tourism and "retiree" industries! The Ibajay and Kalibo rivers would surely turn into the sewage lagoon.
For Aklanons who have the desire to retire or invest in the old country, it is time to start buying real estate properties in response to and as a hedge against this forthcoming eventuality, if the Chinese, Koreans, Aussies, etc. haven't beat us yet to it. It is good business sense to take advantage of the opportunity and make profit.
anonymous
Perhaps, it would force local town or provincial officials to start making plans for waste disposal, drainage and sewerage system! I would just be so impossible to modernize the locality if waste disposals would become the biggest problem that would ultimately choke the local tourism and "retiree" industries! The Ibajay and Kalibo rivers would surely turn into the sewage lagoon.
For Aklanons who have the desire to retire or invest in the old country, it is time to start buying real estate properties in response to and as a hedge against this forthcoming eventuality, if the Chinese, Koreans, Aussies, etc. haven't beat us yet to it. It is good business sense to take advantage of the opportunity and make profit.
anonymous
Saturday, April 14, 2007
Aklan soon to be RP’s retirement haven too
(Aklan Governor Carlito S. Marquez, (with Microphone) is very glad that the Philippine Retirement Authority has chosen Aklan as one of its Retirements village site. AAlso in the picture are PRA Chairman, Gen. Edgar Aglipay, Gen. Efren Fernandez and Gen. Ike Galang. (Edwin Ramos/PIA)New Washington, Aklan –With Boracay Island’s pristine, long beautiful beaches, Aklan’s modern medical facilities big shopping centers and airports of international standard, the province will be the next retirement village site in the Philippines, according to Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA) Chairman Edgar Aglipay.
General Aglipay headed the group that came to Aklan Friday, April 13 as part of PRA’s awareness campaign for Western Visayas residents to promote the retirement program, the latest key flagship program of President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.
The awareness campaign in Aklan came in the form of a luncheon press conference which was held at Sampaguita Gardens in New Washington town and attended by members of the Aklan media and representatives and heads of national and provincial offices. Aklan Governor Carlito S. Marquez also joined the activity.
Gen. Aglipay said that in targeting Aklan where Boracay is as one of the country’s retirement haven, the PRA considers the fact that there is already no need for an extensive promotion of the place as Boracay is very popular throughout the world.
“The retirement industry is a big one and the government targets that by 2015 when even a minimal percentage of retirees from the different parts of the world come to the Philippines, there will be an estimated $44 Billion inflow in the country. With this, 4 million Filipinos will be given jobs and there will be reverse migration – Filipinos no longer need to work abroad as work could be found here with good pay, and they can also be with their families,” Aglipay stressed.
Aglipay also said all these things will have multiplier effects.
Aklan Governor Carlito Marquez, for his part, said he fully supports the program of the Philippine Retirement Authority, and in fact, had already been briefed by Gen. Aglipay on the program earlier.
“We are preparing Boracay Island to be the number 1 tourist destination of the world. In fact, during the recent Holy Week, Boracay Island was cited to be the number 1 tourist destination of the country for the period, with Cebu and Bohol at its heels. We are envisioning Boracay or Nabas as a retirement village site and other areas as long as the place is located along the tourism zone. Our local government units are preparing for this opportunity because of tourism receipts. President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo is also very optimistic with our place, citing Aklan as the golden province of the country,” Marquez revealed.
Along with Aglipay’s group was Bureau of Immigration Commissioner and PRA trustee Enrique Galang, who said the retirement program is good for the economy. Caregivers, nurses, English teachers (in the case of Korean retirees) will be much in demand in retirement villages, according to Galang.
“Currently, retirement villages in the Philippines are found in Cebu, Baguio and Manila. I happened to ask some retirees of how they feel about the Philippines and they can only say ‘Paradise’. It’s only in the Philippines, they say, where they can witness the rising and setting of the sun regularly, unlike in their countries in Europe or in the U.S.,” Galang said.. (PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)
Thursday, April 12, 2007
Kalibo aims for a rabies free town thru free vaccination for dogs
Kalibo, Aklan – A free anti-rabies vaccination for dogs is set on Tuesday, April 17, 2007, at the Magsaysay Park near the town hall led by the Municipal Agricultural Services Division.
This free vaccination for dogs is open for Kalibo pet owners of any type of dogs, must not be pregnant, healthy and must be over three months old, and most important of all is that owners must be the ones holding their pets while the technological agriculturists are administering the vaccine.
The free anti-rabies vaccination for dogs is to be held through a simple program dubbed “Launching On Anti-Rabies Vaccination For Dogs” to promote responsible pet ownership and free Kalibo from the potentially deadly disease of rabies.
This vaccination program has a theme, “Responsableng Amo, Matinong Aso,” and aims to give advocacy on the proper care for their dogs.
This is one of the active preventive measures being undertaken to eradicate this potentially deadly disease in consonance with the continuing clean up of stray animals particularly dogs in the major streets in Kalibo through the Municipal Auxiliary Police. Terence Toriano/
This free vaccination for dogs is open for Kalibo pet owners of any type of dogs, must not be pregnant, healthy and must be over three months old, and most important of all is that owners must be the ones holding their pets while the technological agriculturists are administering the vaccine.
The free anti-rabies vaccination for dogs is to be held through a simple program dubbed “Launching On Anti-Rabies Vaccination For Dogs” to promote responsible pet ownership and free Kalibo from the potentially deadly disease of rabies.
This vaccination program has a theme, “Responsableng Amo, Matinong Aso,” and aims to give advocacy on the proper care for their dogs.
This is one of the active preventive measures being undertaken to eradicate this potentially deadly disease in consonance with the continuing clean up of stray animals particularly dogs in the major streets in Kalibo through the Municipal Auxiliary Police. Terence Toriano/
text message to the editor
Bayan Muna condemns in strongest terms possible the shooting of Karapatan-Iloilo secretary general Jeboy Garachio and abduction of Anakpawis and KMP-Iloilo leader Nilo Arado and SELDA member Luisa Dominado at 10 pm last night in Oton, Iloilo. We hope this is not the start of a wave of attacks versus progressives in Panay. - Cong. Teddy Casiño-092090356..
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Magdaluyo heads search for outstanding Aklanons
BY ULYSSES ESPARTERO
KALIBO, Aklan – A prominent educator now heads the 2006 Search for Outstanding Aklanons.
Dr. Reinalda I. Magdaluyo, Dean of the College of Education of Northwestern Visayan Colleges, was chosen to lead a group of well-represented multi-sectoral committee.
Before her retirement from government service, Magdaluyo served as Assistant Regional Director of the Department of Education.
The prestigious search was revived in 2005 during the first year in office of Gov. Carlito S. Marquez.
The Sangguniang Panlalawigan chaired by lawyer Vice Gov. Ronquillo C. Tolentino approved Resolution No. 04-229 creating a Multi-Sectoral Committee to spearhead the recognition of the outstanding citizens of Aklan.
Lawyer SP Member Plaridel Morania, sponsor of the resolution, stressed that the rebirth of Aklan as a province under RA 1414 is a significant milestone in the annals of its noble tradition.
A potential awardee must recognize and acknowledge himself as an Aklanon and as such, he should have consistently demonstrated exemplary conduct and ethical behavior. The impact of the nominee’s achievements had benefited the greatest number of people and for a longer period of time.
Awards will be conferred to outstanding Aklanons in the following fields of human endeavor and achievements: education, government career, public service, fine arts, science, technology, journalism/media, literature, music, invention, religion, soldiery, medicine and law, stage and movies, business and industry and sports.
When it was revised in 2005, the awardees were Dr. Constancio I. Constantino (Education, Posthumous), Atty. Corazon T. Legaspi-Cabagnot (Foreign Service, Posthumous), Bishop Jose Corazon T. Tala-oc (Religion), Atty. Allen S. Quimpo (Government Service), Lt. Gen. Emmanuel R. Teodosio (Soldiery), Atty. Ronquillo C. Tolentino (Journalism), Mayor Herodutos A. Ramos (Entrepreneurship), Suzima C. Marte dela Cruz (Arts and Craft), Brenda M. Lorenzo-Dimayuga (Business and Industry), Emma M. Ilicito-Ceballos (Education), Manolita M. Quimpo-Acevedo (Community Service) and P/Supt. Nemesio P. Neron (Soldiery/Law Enforcement).
In 2006, the awardees were Vellyzarius I. Dela Cruz (Literary and Visual Arts, Posthumous), Lesley S. Mobo (Fashion Design), Dr. Kenneth Eulalio Y. Ilio (Information Technology), Francisco F. Rovero (Fine Arts/Painting), Dr. Emmette L. Custodio (Medicine), Augusto C. Tolentino (Broadcast Journalism), Atty. Alonzo R. Tinagan (Foreign Service), Atty. Plaridel M. Morania (Government Career), Juan P. Dayang (National Journalism), Dr. Ambrosio R. Villorente (Community Journalism), Col. Efren R. Zaide (Business and Industry), Assemblyman Jose T. Tumbokon (Public Service) and Carmen Salas Quimpo (Education).
KALIBO, Aklan – A prominent educator now heads the 2006 Search for Outstanding Aklanons.
Dr. Reinalda I. Magdaluyo, Dean of the College of Education of Northwestern Visayan Colleges, was chosen to lead a group of well-represented multi-sectoral committee.
Before her retirement from government service, Magdaluyo served as Assistant Regional Director of the Department of Education.
The prestigious search was revived in 2005 during the first year in office of Gov. Carlito S. Marquez.
The Sangguniang Panlalawigan chaired by lawyer Vice Gov. Ronquillo C. Tolentino approved Resolution No. 04-229 creating a Multi-Sectoral Committee to spearhead the recognition of the outstanding citizens of Aklan.
Lawyer SP Member Plaridel Morania, sponsor of the resolution, stressed that the rebirth of Aklan as a province under RA 1414 is a significant milestone in the annals of its noble tradition.
A potential awardee must recognize and acknowledge himself as an Aklanon and as such, he should have consistently demonstrated exemplary conduct and ethical behavior. The impact of the nominee’s achievements had benefited the greatest number of people and for a longer period of time.
Awards will be conferred to outstanding Aklanons in the following fields of human endeavor and achievements: education, government career, public service, fine arts, science, technology, journalism/media, literature, music, invention, religion, soldiery, medicine and law, stage and movies, business and industry and sports.
When it was revised in 2005, the awardees were Dr. Constancio I. Constantino (Education, Posthumous), Atty. Corazon T. Legaspi-Cabagnot (Foreign Service, Posthumous), Bishop Jose Corazon T. Tala-oc (Religion), Atty. Allen S. Quimpo (Government Service), Lt. Gen. Emmanuel R. Teodosio (Soldiery), Atty. Ronquillo C. Tolentino (Journalism), Mayor Herodutos A. Ramos (Entrepreneurship), Suzima C. Marte dela Cruz (Arts and Craft), Brenda M. Lorenzo-Dimayuga (Business and Industry), Emma M. Ilicito-Ceballos (Education), Manolita M. Quimpo-Acevedo (Community Service) and P/Supt. Nemesio P. Neron (Soldiery/Law Enforcement).
In 2006, the awardees were Vellyzarius I. Dela Cruz (Literary and Visual Arts, Posthumous), Lesley S. Mobo (Fashion Design), Dr. Kenneth Eulalio Y. Ilio (Information Technology), Francisco F. Rovero (Fine Arts/Painting), Dr. Emmette L. Custodio (Medicine), Augusto C. Tolentino (Broadcast Journalism), Atty. Alonzo R. Tinagan (Foreign Service), Atty. Plaridel M. Morania (Government Career), Juan P. Dayang (National Journalism), Dr. Ambrosio R. Villorente (Community Journalism), Col. Efren R. Zaide (Business and Industry), Assemblyman Jose T. Tumbokon (Public Service) and Carmen Salas Quimpo (Education).
BARRIA establishes Aklan VISA Host Center
BY ULYSSES ESPARTERO
NABAS, Aklan – The Boracay Association of Resorts, Restaurants and Independent Allies (BARRIA) Consortium recently launched the Aklan VISA Host Center in Barangay Nagustan here.
The inauguration was graced by DOT Regional Director Edwin Trompeta and his wife, DILG Regional Director Evelyn Trompeta.
Also present were Paul Lim So, president of Action Holidays Tour Corporation, Provincial Administrator Diego M. Luces who represented Gov. Carlito S. Marquez, Nabas Mayor Romeo Dalisay, Caticlan Jetty Administrator Niven Maquirang and Women in Nabas Federation President Rhuna Flores-Tipgos.
BARRIA Consultant and Tourism Expert Max Zurbito, Jr. told Panay News that VISA Host stands for Visitors and Assistance (VISA) Home of Organized and Systematic Travel (HOST).
“This is a response to the growing clamor by the tourists and the traveling public for a professionally managed and delivered tourism services in Boracay Island and beyond.
The first of its kind in the country, the Aklan VISA Host Center shall serve as a one-stop shop where tourists and travelers needs shall be available 24 hours a day.
It shall serve as the center for the unified information on the tourism and travel service components within the domestic as well as international destinations.
It is also envisioned to be the central booking office for resorts, hotels, sea, air and land transports, tours, sightseeing an excursions.
“With this scheme, the tourists shall no longer experience the hustle in haggling for a price and paying as many times as he requires the same services,” Zurbito added.
NABAS, Aklan – The Boracay Association of Resorts, Restaurants and Independent Allies (BARRIA) Consortium recently launched the Aklan VISA Host Center in Barangay Nagustan here.
The inauguration was graced by DOT Regional Director Edwin Trompeta and his wife, DILG Regional Director Evelyn Trompeta.
Also present were Paul Lim So, president of Action Holidays Tour Corporation, Provincial Administrator Diego M. Luces who represented Gov. Carlito S. Marquez, Nabas Mayor Romeo Dalisay, Caticlan Jetty Administrator Niven Maquirang and Women in Nabas Federation President Rhuna Flores-Tipgos.
BARRIA Consultant and Tourism Expert Max Zurbito, Jr. told Panay News that VISA Host stands for Visitors and Assistance (VISA) Home of Organized and Systematic Travel (HOST).
“This is a response to the growing clamor by the tourists and the traveling public for a professionally managed and delivered tourism services in Boracay Island and beyond.
The first of its kind in the country, the Aklan VISA Host Center shall serve as a one-stop shop where tourists and travelers needs shall be available 24 hours a day.
It shall serve as the center for the unified information on the tourism and travel service components within the domestic as well as international destinations.
It is also envisioned to be the central booking office for resorts, hotels, sea, air and land transports, tours, sightseeing an excursions.
“With this scheme, the tourists shall no longer experience the hustle in haggling for a price and paying as many times as he requires the same services,” Zurbito added.
German conservationist frustrated by the Philippine Judicial System
Jun Ariolo N. Aguirre
Odiongan, Romblon - A German conservationist is frustrated by the negligent operation of the Philippine judicial system and the slow action of the Regional Trial Court that filed the case here for already more than a year.
Conservationist Prof. Eberhard Curio said, he came back to Odiongan, Romblon, following the agreement with the trial court last December 2006 according to which he was supposed to be scheduled to appear before the court March 15 to attend his case only to find out that his pre-arranged schedule to testify was neglected to be recorded in the calendar of the court.
Curio filed a case of robbery, later turned to theft, against laborer Arnel Gabo of San Andres, Romblon, after the latter allegedly robbed several valuable belongings of Curio in RGF beach resort in San Andres in March 14, 2006. Gabo was arrested by the Romblon police the same night the theft occurred after some witnesses had seen him around the vicinity of Curio’s room before the incident transpired..
Based on the arresting officer’s affidavit, Gabo admitted the crime of looting the belongings of Curio.
Curio was in Romblon in March 2006 for an exploratory mission of determining the existence bird species and had prepared the taking of genetic samples in the said province based on a collecting permit issued by the DENR. Since 1995 Curio’s conservation and development project is partner of the DENR by way of MOA.
During the originally scheduled hearing, assistant prosecutor Petroni Fradejas claimed that the hearing could not be resumed as scheduled because Gabo’s lawyer was attending an important seminar in Manila about which notice had not been given in time that could have served to change the court’s calendar.
Curio said, he should have been notified beforehand by all means so that he would not have squandered his time and money to attend the hearing which had been cancelled. The loss of money, time, and opportunity afflicted also Curio’s team of translator and bodyguard. The responsibility for all this quandary lies ultimately with the Department of Justice.
The hearing was then re-scheduled by Branch 82; Judge Jose Madrid ordered the delayed hearing to be resumed on May 17 of this year. And only in September will it be possible for Curio to appear in court again for the final judicial evaluation of the case.
Odiongan, Romblon - A German conservationist is frustrated by the negligent operation of the Philippine judicial system and the slow action of the Regional Trial Court that filed the case here for already more than a year.
Conservationist Prof. Eberhard Curio said, he came back to Odiongan, Romblon, following the agreement with the trial court last December 2006 according to which he was supposed to be scheduled to appear before the court March 15 to attend his case only to find out that his pre-arranged schedule to testify was neglected to be recorded in the calendar of the court.
Curio filed a case of robbery, later turned to theft, against laborer Arnel Gabo of San Andres, Romblon, after the latter allegedly robbed several valuable belongings of Curio in RGF beach resort in San Andres in March 14, 2006. Gabo was arrested by the Romblon police the same night the theft occurred after some witnesses had seen him around the vicinity of Curio’s room before the incident transpired..
Based on the arresting officer’s affidavit, Gabo admitted the crime of looting the belongings of Curio.
Curio was in Romblon in March 2006 for an exploratory mission of determining the existence bird species and had prepared the taking of genetic samples in the said province based on a collecting permit issued by the DENR. Since 1995 Curio’s conservation and development project is partner of the DENR by way of MOA.
During the originally scheduled hearing, assistant prosecutor Petroni Fradejas claimed that the hearing could not be resumed as scheduled because Gabo’s lawyer was attending an important seminar in Manila about which notice had not been given in time that could have served to change the court’s calendar.
Curio said, he should have been notified beforehand by all means so that he would not have squandered his time and money to attend the hearing which had been cancelled. The loss of money, time, and opportunity afflicted also Curio’s team of translator and bodyguard. The responsibility for all this quandary lies ultimately with the Department of Justice.
The hearing was then re-scheduled by Branch 82; Judge Jose Madrid ordered the delayed hearing to be resumed on May 17 of this year. And only in September will it be possible for Curio to appear in court again for the final judicial evaluation of the case.
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
American doctors supports Pinoy pediatrician
April 9, 2007
Dr. Leo Leondias
Via email
Dear Dr. Leonidas,
It is refreshing to see that there are those who have the integrity, strength
of character and courage to speak their beliefs despite opposing the
prevailing doctrine. The American Academy of Environmental Medicine
(AAEM) is made up of many fine Allopathic and Osteopathic physicians as
well as other medical professionals who have as an Academy been in
existence since 1978.
Indeed we support your premise that fluoride is a toxin and is all too prevalent in the environment. In writing this letter it is our intention to share this support and to emphasize its dangers when over utilized.
This organization passed a resolution regarding fluoride in 2006 that
supports the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology in its
denunciation of its use in public water and food supplies. Fluoride as you
know is a known neurotoxin and carcinogen even at levels added to the
public water supply promoted by the American Dental Association and the
United States Public Health Service.
Because the scientific research clearly identifies fluoride as a known toxin
that adversely affects human health the AAEM supports the banning of
additional fluoride or products containing fluoride to public water and food
supplies.
The medical literature is replete with support for this position. We trust that those who share the dissenting viewpoint will make an effort to embrace the scientific literature available on this subject and discover that they should no longer endanger their patients with its use.
Yours sincerely,
Gerald Natzke, D.O., FAAEM
President of the American Academy of Environmental Medicine
Executive Committee
President
Gerald D. Natzke, D.O, FAAEM
2284 S. Ballenger Hwy
Flint, MI 48503
President-Elect
Philip D. Ranheim, M.D., FAAEM
9407 Fourth St NE Bldg A
Lake Stevens, WA 98258
Secretary
James W. Willoughby, II, D.O.
24 Main St.
Liberty, MO 64068
Treasurer
John H. Boyles, Jr., M.D., FAAEM
7076 Corporate Way
Centerville, OH 45459
Immediate Past President
James F. Coy, M.D.
Advisor
William J. Rea, M.D., FAAEM
Board of Directors
Jennifer Armstrong, M.D., FAAEM
A.L. Barrier, M.D.
Mary Ann Block, D.O.
Charles L. Crist, M.D.
Gary R. Oberg, M.D., FAAEM
Dennis W. Remington, M.D., FAAEM
Diego Saporta, M.D.
W.A. Shrader, Jr., M.D., FAAEM
Martha Stark, M.D.
Robert E. Taylor, M.D.
Continuing Medical Education
Chairman
W.A. Shrader, Jr., M.D.
141 Paseo de Peralta, Ste A
Santa Fe, NM 87501
Administrative Offices
Executive Director
De Rodgers
American Academy of Environmental Medicine
7701 East Kellogg • Suite 625 • Wichita, KS 67207
Tel: (316) 684-5500 • Fax: (316) 684-5709
www.aaem.com
Dr. Leo Leondias
Via email
Dear Dr. Leonidas,
It is refreshing to see that there are those who have the integrity, strength
of character and courage to speak their beliefs despite opposing the
prevailing doctrine. The American Academy of Environmental Medicine
(AAEM) is made up of many fine Allopathic and Osteopathic physicians as
well as other medical professionals who have as an Academy been in
existence since 1978.
Indeed we support your premise that fluoride is a toxin and is all too prevalent in the environment. In writing this letter it is our intention to share this support and to emphasize its dangers when over utilized.
This organization passed a resolution regarding fluoride in 2006 that
supports the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology in its
denunciation of its use in public water and food supplies. Fluoride as you
know is a known neurotoxin and carcinogen even at levels added to the
public water supply promoted by the American Dental Association and the
United States Public Health Service.
Because the scientific research clearly identifies fluoride as a known toxin
that adversely affects human health the AAEM supports the banning of
additional fluoride or products containing fluoride to public water and food
supplies.
The medical literature is replete with support for this position. We trust that those who share the dissenting viewpoint will make an effort to embrace the scientific literature available on this subject and discover that they should no longer endanger their patients with its use.
Yours sincerely,
Gerald Natzke, D.O., FAAEM
President of the American Academy of Environmental Medicine
Executive Committee
President
Gerald D. Natzke, D.O, FAAEM
2284 S. Ballenger Hwy
Flint, MI 48503
President-Elect
Philip D. Ranheim, M.D., FAAEM
9407 Fourth St NE Bldg A
Lake Stevens, WA 98258
Secretary
James W. Willoughby, II, D.O.
24 Main St.
Liberty, MO 64068
Treasurer
John H. Boyles, Jr., M.D., FAAEM
7076 Corporate Way
Centerville, OH 45459
Immediate Past President
James F. Coy, M.D.
Advisor
William J. Rea, M.D., FAAEM
Board of Directors
Jennifer Armstrong, M.D., FAAEM
A.L. Barrier, M.D.
Mary Ann Block, D.O.
Charles L. Crist, M.D.
Gary R. Oberg, M.D., FAAEM
Dennis W. Remington, M.D., FAAEM
Diego Saporta, M.D.
W.A. Shrader, Jr., M.D., FAAEM
Martha Stark, M.D.
Robert E. Taylor, M.D.
Continuing Medical Education
Chairman
W.A. Shrader, Jr., M.D.
141 Paseo de Peralta, Ste A
Santa Fe, NM 87501
Administrative Offices
Executive Director
De Rodgers
American Academy of Environmental Medicine
7701 East Kellogg • Suite 625 • Wichita, KS 67207
Tel: (316) 684-5500 • Fax: (316) 684-5709
www.aaem.com
from the sponsors
Lumabas na po pala ang fifth issue ng CARTOONS. Tungkol ito sa mga senatorial candidates.
Dalawin nyo lang po ang www.toonspeak.blogspot.com
Thanks!
Monday, April 9, 2007
Thousands spend Holy Week vacation in Boracay
(Two young lovers of foreign nationalities kiss each other with the Boracay sunset as their background. Thousands of foreigners are currently spending their summer vacation at the world renown island of Boracay.)Thousands of local and foreign tourists flocked to Boracay Island during the Holy Week vacation. Concrete data was not immediately available but basing on the horde of people lining up at the Caticlan Jetty port to board the pumpboats going to the white-sand island resort, one can safely say that Boracay is still a destination for vacationers.
Aside from Filipinos there were lots of Europeans, Americans as well as Asian tourists like Koreans and Japanese.
At the Caticlan Jetty Port Terminal, Boracay visitors, except those who are Aklanons, are charged with the so-called Environmental Tax fee of 50 pesos per head. This writer overheard some Filipino tourists complain about the Environmental Tax only to be told by the terminal attendants that it is pursuant to a provincial ordinance.
It is said that the Environmental Tax was implemented as payment to the measures being implemented by the local government to ensure the cleanliness of the island resort.
The Environmental Tax adds to the existing 40 pesos terminal fee and the P19.50 pumpboat fare one pays before setting foot to Boracay.
Unlike before when pumpboats dock right at the shores where people are swimming, all pumpboats now dock at the island's jetty port in Brgy. Cagban in compliance with the newly-implemented "one entry one exit" policy. This makes the beachfront free of pumpboats creating a wide swimming area and a good view for photographers.
It was learned, however, that the resort owners have expressed strong opposition to the "one entry one exit" policy. They claim that the scheme is inconvenient to their guests.
From the Cagban jetty port guests have to take the multicab or tricycle to go to their respective resorts or hotels, thus paying excessive fare rates. Tricycle drivers normally charge a minimum of 15 pesos per passenger and even higher depending on the distance one has to travel.
Boracay is a common destination for celebrities during the Holy Week break. Among the showbiz personalities seen taking their vacation in the island were Katrina Halili, Gwen Garci, Andrea Del Rosario and Wendell Ramos.
Other prominent persons who took their vacation in Boracay this Holy Week were Senator Bong Revilla and senatorial candidate John Osmeña.
It seems, however, that politics is not that popular in Boracay. This writer has seen only a few campaign posters of senatorial candidates. In fact, only that of Senator Ralph Recto is very visible as his campaign posters and streamers were placed in various commercial establishments.
On Black Saturday, a mayoralty candidate in Malay, Aklan and his group were seen campaigning in Boracay by going from stall to stall meeting people presumably voters in said town.
Meanwhile, uniformed policemen were seen almost everywhere to protect the visiting tourists. There were even pairs of cops joining the crowd walking along the beach.
Interestingly, the Holy Week which is commonly observed with solemnity and silence, could not be felt in Boracay. As early as the sun rises people are already on the beach enjoying the cool waters. Ladies, young and old alike, in bikini and other sexy suits roam around not minding the people watching them.
At night, the beach line turns into a long stretch of party place as the resorts offer various sorts of gimmicks to attract people.
Even the heavy rains on the night of Holy Thursday and Good Friday did not dampen the party happening in almost every corner of the beach.
letter to the editor
This is in response to the New People's Army (NPA) Panay Region under the Coronacion Chiva "Waling-Waling" Command's claim about their alleged victory over the military's operation during its 38th anniversary celebration. This is not only ridiculous but unfounded and a clear, desperate propaganda to hide their many setbacks and their lost mass base.
The truth is: they have been victorious in deceiving the people, successful in harassing and extorting from the people and hindering economic development which they have been doing for the past 38 years.
The Filipino people deserves a lasting peace which would pave the way to economic development. They don't deserve deception from terrorist groups whose selfish motives are making their victims' lives miserable.
Capt. Cromwell Danganan
OIC, 3rd Civil Military Operations Unit, Philippine Army
Camp Delgado, Iloilo City
The truth is: they have been victorious in deceiving the people, successful in harassing and extorting from the people and hindering economic development which they have been doing for the past 38 years.
The Filipino people deserves a lasting peace which would pave the way to economic development. They don't deserve deception from terrorist groups whose selfish motives are making their victims' lives miserable.
Capt. Cromwell Danganan
OIC, 3rd Civil Military Operations Unit, Philippine Army
Camp Delgado, Iloilo City
please watch..
HI GUYS !
PLEASE WATCH EVERY MONDAYS & TUESDAYS NIGHTS @ 8:00 P.M. @ ABC " DANCING WITH THE STARS" & VOTE TO OUR VERY OWN CHERYL BURKE & HER PARTNER IAN. YOU COULD VOTE 30 MINUTES BEFORE THE END OF THE SHOW @ Tel. # :1-800-868-3401 OR YOU COULD VOTE BY TEXT TOO. ALSO YOU COULD VOTE THROUGH E-MAILS BY LOG ON @ WWW.ABC.COM & VOTE FOR CHERYL & IAN.
WE NEED YOUR VOTES / SUPPORTS FOR CHERYL's THREEPEAT CHAMPIONSHIP !!!
THANK YOU VERY MUCH FOR YOUR OVERWHELMING SUPPORT IN BEHALF OF MISS. CHERYL BURKE & HER PARTNER IAN !!!!
MARAMING SALAMAT SA INYONG LAHAT !
DR. DARRICK & NENE AGUIRRE - LEACOCK
PLEASE WATCH EVERY MONDAYS & TUESDAYS NIGHTS @ 8:00 P.M. @ ABC " DANCING WITH THE STARS" & VOTE TO OUR VERY OWN CHERYL BURKE & HER PARTNER IAN. YOU COULD VOTE 30 MINUTES BEFORE THE END OF THE SHOW @ Tel. # :1-800-868-3401 OR YOU COULD VOTE BY TEXT TOO. ALSO YOU COULD VOTE THROUGH E-MAILS BY LOG ON @ WWW.ABC.COM & VOTE FOR CHERYL & IAN.
WE NEED YOUR VOTES / SUPPORTS FOR CHERYL's THREEPEAT CHAMPIONSHIP !!!
THANK YOU VERY MUCH FOR YOUR OVERWHELMING SUPPORT IN BEHALF OF MISS. CHERYL BURKE & HER PARTNER IAN !!!!
MARAMING SALAMAT SA INYONG LAHAT !
DR. DARRICK & NENE AGUIRRE - LEACOCK
Timber poaching for poll money ? (revised edition)
Jun Ariolo N. AquirreNabas, Aklan – Rampant timber poaching and illegalkaingin (slash-and-burn) activities in thejurisdiction of Nabas, Aklan, destroying the forestsof the Protected Area of the NW Panay Peninsula havebeen identified by Forest Rangers of the internationalfunded Philippine Endemic Species Conservation Project(PESCP) based in nearby Pandan, Antique, in tightcooperation with Officers of the Department ofEnvironment and Natural Resources (DENR), Kalibo,Aklan.
Timber poaching: In the forest of Bgy Tagororoc,Nabas, the Forest Rangers of PESCP during their routinely executed forest monitoring activities on March 08/09, 2007, found timber poaching going oninside the forest of the Protected Area, and informedthe DENR Kalibo.
An immediately arranged on-the-groundinvestigation through Officers of the DENR Kalibo,revealed that ca. 55 cubic meter of timber has beenproduced by illegally cutting down naturally grownlaua-an trees some of them older than 100 years.
Since then the Forest Rangers of PESCP found moresites inside the Protected Area of Tagororoc wherenaturally grown native trees have been cut downillegally. Including all cutting sites found until now the estimated total of illegally cut timber amounts toca. 1.7 million Peso.
The Executive Director of DENR Region VI, LormelynEstrada Claudio, when PESCP reported the case to her,ordered immediate and thorough investigation of theseillegal acts.
It was gathered that the PESCP suspects that some of the illegally cut lumber has been transported to nearby Boracay Island for sale to be used forconstructions of establishments in the said resortisland.
“This is another serious step towards the destructionof the forest of the Protected Area of the NorthwestPanay Peninsula, and we, PESCP, are convinced thatthis is the result of having politicians who do not show any political will to protect the forest in theProtected Area – a task force “Anak-Talon” created already three years ago for the protection of the forest cannot operate because until now the Mayors ofPandan, Libertad, Buruanga, Malay and Nabas refuse to make available the necessary small funds they promised for the task force three years ago.
Such huge numberof lumber to be chainsawed needs weeks and can only bedone undisturbed because the authorities (Mayor,MENRO, Brgy Cptn, Police) do not care and/or do not make the effort needed to spot and to stop suchillegal activities.
Since PESCP reported the illegallogging in Tagororoc PESCP has set up a permanentForest Ranger camp at the cutting site to ensure thatthe illegalists cannot haul away these forestproducts.
Until today none of the authorities from town hall Nabas have shown any interest in that case.Are they afraid to lose voters when acting againstthese illegal activities? The question must be askedwhy the MENRO of Nabas is totally indifferent aboutthat case – which falls in his mandate as MENRO.
The ordinary people living in Tagororoc are all well aware about these ongoing illegal activities, only the authorities seem to know nothing as usual,” Kuenzel said.
Illegal Slash-and-burn: In March 28, 2005, ForestRangers of PESCP found a ca.3-5 ha area of illegalslash-and-burn inside the Protected Area of Nabas, andreported this to the authorities of Nabas and to theDENR Kalibo.
PESCP Forest Rangers visited the saidkaingin area again 2 times - last in February 2007 and reported it again to the authorities.
Until today theDENR Kalibo was not able to stop these illegalactivities. From the concerned authorities in townhall Nabas nothing has been done to stop these illegalactivities either – do the authorities in Nabastolerate the destruction of the forest of the Protected Area not to lose the votes of theillegalists for the coming election ?
“Some of the officials of Nabas but first of all theMENRO and the Mayor must be deeply ashamed if there isany dignity being left with them what we doubtregarding the illegal activities going on undisturbedduring years by the authorities.
It is the people inpower who are allowing (knowingly or just beingignorant) the destruction of the environment, therebydestroying the future of their own children - this is disgusting,” Kuenzel said.
In case that the politicians in power continue to ignore illegal logging and illegal slash-and-burn inside the Protected Area of the Nortwest PanayPeninsula to always the same shortsighted advantage –to win the next election, as they did during the last years, this forest will be destroyed within few years time resulting in water shortage for house holds and for the rice fields, and in killing the fisheriesresources in the coastal areas by over-siltation through erosion.
Timber poaching: In the forest of Bgy Tagororoc,Nabas, the Forest Rangers of PESCP during their routinely executed forest monitoring activities on March 08/09, 2007, found timber poaching going oninside the forest of the Protected Area, and informedthe DENR Kalibo.
An immediately arranged on-the-groundinvestigation through Officers of the DENR Kalibo,revealed that ca. 55 cubic meter of timber has beenproduced by illegally cutting down naturally grownlaua-an trees some of them older than 100 years.
Since then the Forest Rangers of PESCP found moresites inside the Protected Area of Tagororoc wherenaturally grown native trees have been cut downillegally. Including all cutting sites found until now the estimated total of illegally cut timber amounts toca. 1.7 million Peso.
The Executive Director of DENR Region VI, LormelynEstrada Claudio, when PESCP reported the case to her,ordered immediate and thorough investigation of theseillegal acts.
It was gathered that the PESCP suspects that some of the illegally cut lumber has been transported to nearby Boracay Island for sale to be used forconstructions of establishments in the said resortisland.
“This is another serious step towards the destructionof the forest of the Protected Area of the NorthwestPanay Peninsula, and we, PESCP, are convinced thatthis is the result of having politicians who do not show any political will to protect the forest in theProtected Area – a task force “Anak-Talon” created already three years ago for the protection of the forest cannot operate because until now the Mayors ofPandan, Libertad, Buruanga, Malay and Nabas refuse to make available the necessary small funds they promised for the task force three years ago.
Such huge numberof lumber to be chainsawed needs weeks and can only bedone undisturbed because the authorities (Mayor,MENRO, Brgy Cptn, Police) do not care and/or do not make the effort needed to spot and to stop suchillegal activities.
Since PESCP reported the illegallogging in Tagororoc PESCP has set up a permanentForest Ranger camp at the cutting site to ensure thatthe illegalists cannot haul away these forestproducts.
Until today none of the authorities from town hall Nabas have shown any interest in that case.Are they afraid to lose voters when acting againstthese illegal activities? The question must be askedwhy the MENRO of Nabas is totally indifferent aboutthat case – which falls in his mandate as MENRO.
The ordinary people living in Tagororoc are all well aware about these ongoing illegal activities, only the authorities seem to know nothing as usual,” Kuenzel said.
Illegal Slash-and-burn: In March 28, 2005, ForestRangers of PESCP found a ca.3-5 ha area of illegalslash-and-burn inside the Protected Area of Nabas, andreported this to the authorities of Nabas and to theDENR Kalibo.
PESCP Forest Rangers visited the saidkaingin area again 2 times - last in February 2007 and reported it again to the authorities.
Until today theDENR Kalibo was not able to stop these illegalactivities. From the concerned authorities in townhall Nabas nothing has been done to stop these illegalactivities either – do the authorities in Nabastolerate the destruction of the forest of the Protected Area not to lose the votes of theillegalists for the coming election ?
“Some of the officials of Nabas but first of all theMENRO and the Mayor must be deeply ashamed if there isany dignity being left with them what we doubtregarding the illegal activities going on undisturbedduring years by the authorities.
It is the people inpower who are allowing (knowingly or just beingignorant) the destruction of the environment, therebydestroying the future of their own children - this is disgusting,” Kuenzel said.
In case that the politicians in power continue to ignore illegal logging and illegal slash-and-burn inside the Protected Area of the Nortwest PanayPeninsula to always the same shortsighted advantage –to win the next election, as they did during the last years, this forest will be destroyed within few years time resulting in water shortage for house holds and for the rice fields, and in killing the fisheriesresources in the coastal areas by over-siltation through erosion.
Korean shipbuilding firm opens jobs for Aklanons
KALIBO, Aklan – If all other major shipyards and foreign companies follow suit and invest in the Philippines just like what the Hanjin Heavy Industries and Contruction Company (HHIC-Phil. Inc.) did, Filipinos will never lack for jobs and their families will no longer go hungry, as long as they have the necessary skills and are willing to work.
HHIC-Phil. Inc. is a major company known for shipbuilding in Korea and now expanding its operations at Subic Freeport Zone in Zambales. It is now in need of some 2,248 workers and has made contacts in Aklan for job applicants for various positions and skills related to ship building.
Vivian R. Solano, Public Employment Service Office (PESO) manager here, said Pyung Jong Yu, Business Department and Human Resource manager of HHIC-Phil. Inc., recently contacted Governor Carlito S. Marquez about their company’s need of applicants with skills and experiences in operating various cranes like overhead, gantry, bridge travel, Goliath, Jib, tower and hydraulic; transporter, lifts, and signal men.
Also needed are maintenance staff – 50 mechanical and 50 electricians, 20 plumbers, compressor operators, engineering and administrative staff.
The engineering staff must be 18-35 years of age, college graduate with major in electrical, plumbing, mechanical and marine industry while the administrative staff should be a college graduate, computer literate specializing in MS Excel, Word and Power Point, has bookkeeping skills and with experiences in Human Resource Department, Procurement, warehouse management, etc.
The shipyard also needs trainee applicants who are 18-35 years old, high school graduate or college level and skilled in welding, cutting and piping jobs. Two thousand trainees are needed every quarter and they will undergo three months training and enjoy training allowance.
Interested applicants, said Gov. Marquez, must go to PESO-Aklan with their resumé, ID pictures and employment certificates.
In a related development, the Japan External Trade Organization (Jetro) remains confident the country is still a competitive business destination for Japan despite issues of high cost of labor, telecommunication, electricity and taxes as reflected in the 17th Survey of Investment-Related Cost Comparison in Major Cities and Regions in Asia.
The survey also revealed information and communication technology and automotive sectors remain an enticing investment opportunity for Japanese firms because of the pluses like human resources and lower office space rent despite relatively high basic charges for landline and mobile phones, as well as corporate income taxes.A total of 269 Japanese firms are now in the Philippines, mostly inside export processing zones engaged in electronics, semiconductors and automotive parts.(PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)
HHIC-Phil. Inc. is a major company known for shipbuilding in Korea and now expanding its operations at Subic Freeport Zone in Zambales. It is now in need of some 2,248 workers and has made contacts in Aklan for job applicants for various positions and skills related to ship building.
Vivian R. Solano, Public Employment Service Office (PESO) manager here, said Pyung Jong Yu, Business Department and Human Resource manager of HHIC-Phil. Inc., recently contacted Governor Carlito S. Marquez about their company’s need of applicants with skills and experiences in operating various cranes like overhead, gantry, bridge travel, Goliath, Jib, tower and hydraulic; transporter, lifts, and signal men.
Also needed are maintenance staff – 50 mechanical and 50 electricians, 20 plumbers, compressor operators, engineering and administrative staff.
The engineering staff must be 18-35 years of age, college graduate with major in electrical, plumbing, mechanical and marine industry while the administrative staff should be a college graduate, computer literate specializing in MS Excel, Word and Power Point, has bookkeeping skills and with experiences in Human Resource Department, Procurement, warehouse management, etc.
The shipyard also needs trainee applicants who are 18-35 years old, high school graduate or college level and skilled in welding, cutting and piping jobs. Two thousand trainees are needed every quarter and they will undergo three months training and enjoy training allowance.
Interested applicants, said Gov. Marquez, must go to PESO-Aklan with their resumé, ID pictures and employment certificates.
In a related development, the Japan External Trade Organization (Jetro) remains confident the country is still a competitive business destination for Japan despite issues of high cost of labor, telecommunication, electricity and taxes as reflected in the 17th Survey of Investment-Related Cost Comparison in Major Cities and Regions in Asia.
The survey also revealed information and communication technology and automotive sectors remain an enticing investment opportunity for Japanese firms because of the pluses like human resources and lower office space rent despite relatively high basic charges for landline and mobile phones, as well as corporate income taxes.A total of 269 Japanese firms are now in the Philippines, mostly inside export processing zones engaged in electronics, semiconductors and automotive parts.(PIA/Venus G. Villanueva)
AFP to support PNP in addressing election related violence
DAVID I TAN
LTC (AGS) PA
Division Public Affairs Office—With the noted increase in number of election related violent incidents (ERVIs), the Armed Forces of the Philippines with the Philippine national Police, as lead agency and under the supervision of the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) jointly undertakes measures to prevent the occurrence of the ERVIs.
The AFP by virtue of the Memorandum of Agreement signed into by the Department of National Defense and the Commission on Elections last year which provides that specific AFP units can be called upon and deputized to address strong armed threats that would hamper and prevent the conduct of a peaceful and orderly election.
the Armed Forces of the Philippines continue to actively address the threats posed by the New People’s Army, secessionist and terrorist groups. AFP units, upon deputation by COMELEC shall make available necessary manpower support to the peacekeeping efforts of the PNP to deter ERVIs.
To ensure the peaceful and orderly conduct of the elections, the AFP, PNP and COMELEC jointly calls individuals and groups to abstain from the use of violence in furthering their political ambitions as the AFP and the PNP will be ready to confront them head-on.
Saturday, April 7, 2007
Calvin Klein goes for Aklan fiber
Taking pride at being able to enter the competitive international designer industry, the province of Aklan announced that it has successfully kept its fibers free from virus (photo: WN)
Friday, April 6, 2007
Events in Boracay
NESTEA Beach Volley is now on its 11th year. Expect tougher and more competitive beach volley games in 2007.
Tournament Format
NESTEA to follow the double elimination system which is the standard tournament format used in the international beach volley tournament.
Match format
NESTEA will apply the FIVB standard match format - 2 out of 3 sets (21-21-15 rally point system)
Game Schedules
Eliminations
Luzon
March 21-23
La Salle Greenhills
Visayas
March 27-28
La Salle Greenhills
Mindanao
March 29-30
La Salle Greenhills
Semis and Finals
April 18-21
Boracay
Tournament Format
NESTEA to follow the double elimination system which is the standard tournament format used in the international beach volley tournament.
Match format
NESTEA will apply the FIVB standard match format - 2 out of 3 sets (21-21-15 rally point system)
Game Schedules
Eliminations
Luzon
March 21-23
La Salle Greenhills
Visayas
March 27-28
La Salle Greenhills
Mindanao
March 29-30
La Salle Greenhills
Semis and Finals
April 18-21
Boracay
Events in Boracay
BEACH FEST SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES
April 28,2007
10:00 am
Walk-in go-see starts
Registration for the raffle starts
Mini-games start
Massage, Henna Tattoo and Hair Braiding booths will open
Century Tuna sampling
3:00 pm
Walk-in go-see ends
3-6 pm
Celebrity Beach Games
9:00pm
Raffle starts (consolation prizes)
9:30pm
Century Superbods Finals Show
Draw of grand raffle prizes
12:00 am
Century Superbods 2007 After Party
Events in Boracay
with Dj Kimozave
Mc Dash
and China Yoo
SUMMERPLACE - APRIL 14 2007!
a sunrise you dont wanna miss!
Time: 10PM until Sunrise !!!
Events in Boracay
On April 25-28, 2007, Boracay will host the 1st Boracay International Dragon Boat Festival, a 4-day festival celebrating Boracay’s appreciation of its pristine waters and the bounty of benefits its people and visitors continue to enjoy.� The Festival culminates with the dragon boat races on April 27 and 28 with at least 50 international and Philippine teams, ie 1,000 people, participating in the races itself.� Dragon boating came to Boracay in 2001 when it was first introduced.� Since then, annual competitions participated by international teams from Hong Kong, Singapore, Australia, etc. have been held in the waters of Boracay.� The Festival is organized by the Boracay Island Paddlers Association (BIPA) in cooperation with the Philippine Dragon Boat Federation, Philippine Tourism Authority and the Municipality of Malay.� The participants of the festival are promised days of healthy competition, great camaraderie and lots of good fun in the sea and under the sun.
The event will also showcase Philippines’ cultural / festival performers such as the Bacolod Masscarra dancers, Kalibo Atiatihan group, Borakay Tribal Performing Arts (with the fire dancers), the La Carlotta Band, and other cultural performers of the island during the dinner parties and the race days. Please find attached the schedule of activities. ABS-CBN, ANC and SOLAR SPORTS will be doing a 1/2hr special of the event for national broadcast.
SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES
25 – 26 April, 2007
Event: Paraw Sailing Competition
Venue: Summer Place
Event: Malay Adventure Race
Venue: Mainland Malay
Event: Skim Board Design & Exhibition
Venue: Bom Bom Bar
26 April, 2007
Event: Arrival of Dragon Boat Teams
Venue: Boracay Regency Beach Resort
Event: Opening Ceremony & Welcome Cocktails
Venue: Boracay Regency Beach Resort
Event: Men’s, Women's & Mixed 300M Races
Venue: White Beach
Event: After Dinner Party
Venue: Juice Bar, Plazoleta
28 April, 2007
Event: Men’s, Women’s & Mixed 500M Races
Venue: White Beach
Event: Awards & Farewell Dinner Party
Venue: Boracay Regency Beach Resort
Event: Finale Party
Venue: Summer Place
Rational Insanity
Boracay in my mind
By Bryan Mari Argos
I've never been to Boracay in the past ten years or so. It's not really that I don't want to go there, but because I have seen the best of the place; something almost all of those in this generation will never get to see ever again.
It's summer now and for whatever reason, many will troop to the white shorelines of the island paradise to best enjoy the heat of the sun. Some will go to Boracay simply to bathe in its waters but most have a different agenda - an agenda that was unheard of ten or fifteen years in the past.
The entire island is now riddled with bars, disco houses, lodges, and five star hotels, hence, over and above the usual reason of sun and sand, many go to Boracay nowadays for the gimmicks and the night-outs. Every night there is a party in Boracay, so I've heard, and this has now become the main reason why people go to the place. It is quite disheartening to know that the former attraction of Boracay being its pristine waters and powdery white sand have now taken the backseat so that hotels can flaunt their eternity pools (that I find really redundant in a place where there is a beach), in door sports stadiums (which are terribly out of place in an island where the beach is the best place for a sport), and rowdy bars and posh restaurants. It is even quite ironic that in a place like Boracay where seafood is abundant, native delicacies can shoot up to unbelievably unreasonable prices.
The place has lost its charm already -- at least to those who have witnessed how it was in its virginity. To put it even more lightly, the place has metamorphosed into a place where one spots celebrities, goes for hook-ups, and easily accessible sex. The Romance has gone out of Boracay in exchange for hedonistic pleasures and shallow pleasantries.
Despite these things, and despite the environmental issues that the place had to grapple with only a few years in the past, it still continues to enjoy an unending stream of visitors year in and year out. Most of these visitors come to Boracay hoping to find the virgin paradise that it once was and eventually leave the place feeling that they did not get what they wanted, instead they got much more. Getting more than you bargained for in Boracay is not really what it should be because Boracay is Boracay is Boracay and when you get more than just the pristine waters and the sugary white sand, then it was not Boracay that you experienced, but the dreaded monster that is commercialism.
I still have the perfect Boracay tucked somewhere in my mind. I and my whole family used to go to the place and there was not a single hotel or restaurant in sight. We had to ask the residents to let us stay in their houses for the night for a very small fee. Then there was the simple pleasure of buying seafood from passing vendors and having our hosts cook these for our meals. There was one place though, the only place on the island with a generator -- it was called Happy Home, and there we would enjoy a large mug of fresh mango shake and pancakes with real honey and fresh pineapple on them -- but all that is now a figment of imagination. Gone are the days when we would all walk along the beach at sunrise to another part of the island, and walk back at sunrise and still find the footprints that we left earlier that day, literally. Now, you won't recognize which footprint is yours even just after a few minutes.
Perhaps it's time to really grapple with the reality that I have been robbed of the Boracay I once knew. Perhaps it's about time that I accepted that we have surrendered the Boracay of the old days to the changing of the times. I have only one hope for the place though -- that the stewards who have inherited the place from us, the die-hard romanticists and baby-boomers, would somehow, and in one way or another, keep even just remnants of the place tucked away in the safest corners of their hearts so that when in time, they look at the place with their heart's eye, they can truly say that the sunset is beautiful now, but if could have even been more beautiful without the neon lights and the strobes; they can truly say that the memory of the true Boracay still lives on with the strong and burning hope that one day, their footprints will again become recognizable in the failing light of the sun.
Be rational; be insane... every once in a while! Enjoy your summer!
Thursday, April 5, 2007
Special Lenten Message
Holy Week for me is remembering our salvation through the greatest sacrifice for love of Jesus Christ, through it we find meaning to our existence and our suffering, and hopefully, through it we'll find the strength to move on, change for the better, and become instruments of peace and love.May we have more faith in Him who has first loved us and has continued to do so... :)
(this message was addressed by Ms Pamela Avellanosa, now a lady but has been acknowledged by the Vatican as a miracle child in 1990's. Her miraculous healing from a fatal incident in Baguio City inspired the Vatican for the sainthood of St. Arnold Jensenn a patron saint of Pink Sisters which has its own convent in New Washington, Aklan. -ed)
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