MADYAAS PEN, The Panay's Reliable Newsweekly

MADYAAS PEN

2008-05-17T19:30:00.000-07:00

EDITORIAL - MAY 17, 2008 ISSUE

2008-05-16T18:28:00.000-07:00

Parents Can Make Wonders

For Young Musicians

The Frame-ups: ‘We are proud of our parents’

by Alex P. Vidal

A fledgling band composed of young high school students from Niles, Illinois, proved that strong parental support spiked with mutual trust and confidence can be their big sources of inspiration and vehicle to greater heights.
"We credit our parents (for our success)," gushed Anthony Sanders, 16, lead vocalist of The Frame-ups, champion of the Battle of the Bands held at Lemont, Illinois on January 6, 2008. "My mom (Catherine) is the greatest supporter in the whole planet."
Anthony, the voice behind the nail-biting and electrifying "I want you to want me" and "Unchained Melody", said Catherine is his main backer since he was a kid. His father, Jay, also saw to it that his enthusiasm to compose songs is not hampered.
"I play basketball with my dad regularly as my number one recreation," explained the matinee idol-looking Anthony. He turned 16 last March 7.
Anthony composes songs by just thinking about the subject "and the melody will just come along."
Anthony hooked up with Filipino-American Lui "Aybil" Macatual, 17, son of famous folk singer and songwriter Luisito "Chito Ilonggo" and Chicago-based Ilonggo nurse Jocelyn.
They are considered the Frame-ups’ one-two punch. Their collaboration has worked wonders for the previously unknown and unheard of band founded based on mutual trust, confidence and camaraderie.
"None of (our parents) is holding us back; they are our number one supporters and fans," said Lui, the band drummer and back-up vocalist.
Lui described Anthony as "a good musician" who has composed some 80 songs, mostly acoustic.
Another Filipino-American band member, Jake Jones, a guitarist, said his father Steven "is very proud of me but has not seen me perform; (but) he is a man who loves music."
"Music has been part of my life since I was a child," said Jake, who knew Lui and another band member, Alex Mui, since he was in the seventh grade. Jake’s mother is Francisca Familiara, a Filipina, who also approves of his being guitarist.
"If not for Alex, I wouldn’t be with the band. I was overwhelmed and shocked when we won; it was an unexplainable feeling, my adrenalin shot up," admitted Jake referring to their Battle of the Bands conquest where they bested 11 other tough competitors that were mostly veterans.
Despite their growing popularity that could someday bring them to other states for tougher competitions, Jake still values education stressing "I will continue to work hard, enjoy what I like to do and finish my high school."
Alex, a bass guitarist, admitted "he is not so good in composing music" but takes pride of being responsible for introducing Jake "to the rest of the guys." Alex’s father, Tony, passed away in July 2006, and his sister is in college.
His mother, Selina, is a regular visitor of the Macatuals and is comfortable seeing her son in the company of Lui and others. "Alex is like our adopted son," hissed Jocelyn Macatual, a nurse in the United States for 14 years.
Another band member, Spiros Loukopoulos, 16, considers his Greek father, George, as his inspiration. "He came from poor background and has given me the tools to succeed. He came from a small village in Greece," said Spiros, a junior high school at Maine East in Niles.
Spiros, bassist of their other band Business Casual, met Luis when he was in the seventh grade, "I learned to meet so many friends; I’ve grown up as a person and I feel comfortable for the first time."
Members of The Frame-ups are remnants of "Captain Crunch" which Lui, Jake and Alex first organized in February 2007. When another band "Squid Rocket", composed of Lui, Anthony and Spiros broke up, they formed the Frame-ups (composed primarily of Lui, Alex, Jake and Anthony) and Business Casual (composed of Lui, Spiro and Anthony).
The Frame-ups debuted in a serious competition in the battle of the bands held at the Golf Mall in October 2007 and wound up second.
On May 31, The Frame-ups will defend the crown they won on January 6, 2008.
Anthony said: "We will try to make everything as unique as we can to differentiate ourselves (during the May 31 competition)."
He is confident that among their legions of fans from all walks of life, "no one has been bored yet."
"People now know the Frame-ups. We get support after we won the battle of the bands (last January 6). We just want to be our own and with our own identity," added Anthony who will join Lui to travel and study in England, Italy, and France in the summer of 2008 in an educational exploration program for excellent students of People to People.
Among their hit songs are "Alien", "Painted Smile", and "The Fall of Icarus." /MP

Entrepreneurial Farmer

2008-05-16T18:26:00.000-07:00

Ambrosio R. Villorente

Compost Fertilizer Is Safe And Cheap

Organic farming is fast becoming popular in Aklan. The town of Numancia, Aklan itself has adopted organic farming as its "One Town One Product" (OTOP) project now being assisted by the Department of Trade and Industry.
Some interested persons/families had organized themselves into a Vermicast Multi-purpose cooperative to produce organic compost fertilizer for their own farm use and the surplus for sale. The members are now collecting farm manures, rice straw, garbage and other waste for decomposition and conversion into organic fertilizer.
To enhance decomposition, the members of the cooperative had provided themselves with portable shredder machine manufactured and distributed by E. I. Templonuevo & Associates.
At the moment, burning of rice straw and other farm waste has stopped.
There is now a competition in the collection of horse, carabao and cow manure for sale to cooperative members. It has generated limited employment among Numanciahanons.
In view of organic compost fertilizer production and utilization, fruits and vegetables production in Numancia are becoming organic with products less toxic in high demand. Farmers who are using organic compost fertilizer for rice product, in effect, are reducing their cost of production as they are reducing the use of inorganic or commercial fertilizer.
One bag of 16-20-0 fertilizer now costs P1,750.00 in Kalibo. Moreover, the continued use of inorganic fertilizer will render the farm land barren. On the other hand, the cost of organic compost fertilizer is very cheap. One bag of it costs P350.00. There is no overdose. Since it is rich of organic matter, organic compost fertilizer will maintain the fertility and productivity of the land.

Kakawate Ipil ipil Acacia

Not only from animal and farm waste, organic fertilizer can also be sourced from kakawate, ipil-ipil and acacia trees.
In the study of Dr. Clyde G. Abayon and others at Aklan State University and Capiz State University, they found out that kakawate, ipil ipil and acacia leaves are also excellent sources of liquid organic fertilizer (LOF).
Abayon found that nutrient (nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium) and pH are comparable among LOF prepared with various indigenous materials. At 30 days of decomposition, organic mater and pH contents of the LOF increased. pH refers to the acidity or alkalinity of the soil. Soil is acidic if the pH value of the soil is above 7 and it is alkaline if the soil pH value is below 6.

Strange

I find it strange why the Sangguniang Pan-lalawigan of Aklan is still discussing Resolution No. 2008-33 regarding the application of Petroterminal Corporation to construct, install, operate and maintain petroleum storage facility in Dumaguit, New Washington, Aklan. It was discussed during its 17th regular session on May 15, 2008 for approval.
The said terminal was blessed and inaugurated about two (2) weeks ago. /MP

REA GIZELLE M. SIM

2008-05-16T18:23:00.000-07:00

Ms. Earth Numancia 2008

by Christy Ann Navarra

Her Majesty, Queen Rea Gizelle

"A thing of beauty is a joy forever". This beautiful lady from Barangay Badio, Numancia, Aklan, Ms. Rea Gizelle M. Sim flaunts herself, unveils her beauty, as crowned: Ms. Earth Numancia 2008 in the Grand Pa-geant and Coronation Night. It was held on April 29, 2008 at the Cultural Stage, Numancia Town Plaza, Poblacion, Numancia, Aklan.
The Search for Ms. Earth Numancia 2008 was in connection with the Earth Day celebration month. The pa-geant, a special feature, highlighted the celeb-ration of Numancia town fiesta in honor of Patron Saint, St. Joseph The Worker.
Rea Gizelle is one of the 10 lovely Numanciahanons who competed in the beauty contest. They prepared to be hailed "most beautiful". They are all competitive but cliché as it is, only one survivor out bested, outlasted and outwitted the rest.
Hailed as Ms. Earth Numancia, she is a model to everyone. A desirable person of beauty, body, brain, talent and good qualities. Rea believes in the essence of culture, tradition and love to the environment and of the people.
Rea Gizelle M. Sim, 16 years old, stands 5 ft. 3 inches. Her body measures 32-24-34, is a true Filipina beauty. Born on December 5, 1991, she is the daughter of Mr. Samuel and Mrs. Antonia Sim of Brgy. Badio, Numancia. She studied primary education in Badio Primary School; completed elementary and secondary education in Numancia Integrated School, Numancia. An achiever and a consistent honor student, Rea will pursue Bachelor of Science in Accountancy this coming school year. She chose BS Accountancy course as it is her dream to be a successful businesswoman/accountant. It is her passion to deal with numbers, and she wants to know more about this field.
In her excellent production number during the coronation pageant she said, "A diamond cannot be polished without friction as man cannot be perfected without trials." She walked graciously, wearing her fabulous and elegant Filipiniana attire made of indigenous materials that enabled her to be awarded Best in Production Number and Best in Philippine Dress.
Ms. Earth Numancia 2008, Her Majesty Rea Gizelle M. Sim, in her court were First Runner Up – Mariel P. Nicodemus, Camanci Norte; 2nd Runner Up – Sheila Tajaran, Laguin-banua West; 3rd Runner Up – Junaiza Mae T. Rapiz, Badio and 4th Runner Up – Melka Marie Dacara, Bulwang.
Hon. Bayani M. Cordova, executive chairman organized the search for Ms. Earth Numancia 2008 with Mr. Albert Ilarina, pa-geant coordinator. Mr. Laorence Paul M. Maquinto and Ms. Aileah Kathleen G. Tropa were masters of ceremonies. /MP

Kapehan Sa Aklan Tackles Transport System

2008-05-16T18:20:00.000-07:00

Kapehan Sa Aklan, in its Saturday, May 10 edition, tackled the transportation system in the province of Aklan. The resource persons who graced the occasion were Mr. Valtimore Cunanan-Chief LTO-Kalibo; Engr. Leoduvico Ambubuyog and Engr. Elfred Francisco, both of DPWH-Aklan and SPO1 Rene T. Armenio of the PNP Kalibo as shown in that order above. Mr. Cunanan revealed the LTO program in traffic enforcement. Engrs. Francisco and Ambubuyog discussed the DPWH road improvement program to ease travel and promote road safety. SPO1 Armenio explained the PNP traffic laws, rules and regulations enforcement in Kalibo.
Mayor Raymar A. Rebaldo and PSSupt. Benigno Durana, Jr. were also invited but were not able to attend.

Aklan Honors 14 Outstanding Citizens

2008-05-16T18:18:00.000-07:00

Atty. Daniel Y. Martelino is in government service since 1972. He was Municipal Councilor of Kalibo from 1972 – 1986, and Asst. Branch Attorney of the Development Bank of the Philippines for ten years. In 1987, he worked with the Ministry of Human Settlements and served as its Area Manager in Western Visayas. A year after, he was appointed as Area Manager of the Presidential Management Staff for Region VI.
From 1988 to date, Atty. Martelino is the Provincial Agrarian Reform Officer II of the Department of Agrarian Reform. His performance in the department has practically moved the program in a steady phase. His tireless efforts in diplomacy and resource mobilization were rewarded with the outpour of assistance from various stakeholders. Through his representation, DAR Aklan was able to generate over P201.58 million worth of infrastructure projects such as farm to market roads, bridges and irrigation system. This is by far the biggest assistance received by DAR-Aklan in the history of agrarian reform implementation.
Martelino is a recipient of various national and regional awards in the field of CARP implementation and provision of support services designed to uplift the status of marginalized farmers, farm workers and rural folks of Aklan. The local government units of Makato, Buruanga, Madalag, Ibajay and Altavas declared him as adopted son for facilitating the implementation of high impact development projects in their communities.
Atty. Martelino was born in Kalibo, Aklan to Judge Florentino Martelino and Esperanza Yap. He is married to Ofelia Barrios of Kalibo and has four children.

John Guidon Macciri Icamina Dela Cruz is the youngest of the seven children of Dr. Beato Aguirre Dela Cruz (+) and Mrs. Josefina Mirasol Icamina who was born on February 4, 1961 at Kalibo, Aklan. He is married to Dra. Cynthia Cerrada – Dela Cruz and a father of six children.
John Guidon graduated valedictorian, Class 1971 of Pook Elementary School, Kalibo, Aklan and completed his secondary education at the University of the Philippines-Visayas, Miag-ao, Iloilo. He earned his BS in Commerce major in Marketing at the De La Salle University and graduated his Masters in Entrepreneurship in the Real Estate Industry with Distinction at the Asian Institute of Management.
For 23 years now, John Guidon Dela Cruz is the President and Chief Executive Officer of his own company, the Macciri Business Group and a boss of more than a hundred employees. He is the President and the General Manager of the following business units under Macciri Business Group:
• Bakers Best Marketing (Bread and Butter Company Stores) with 9 company stores all over Panay Island serving its satisfied customers with delicious and affordable bakery products;
• Filbake Food Corporation (Bread and Butter Commissary), the production unit of Bread and Butter operating 2 Commissaries;
• Bakersdream Franchise Corporation (Bread and Butter Franchise Stores) which operates 20 Franchise Stores in Northern Panay;
• Blue Star Business Center Etc. (BS BCE) with six areas in Panay Island
• Overseas Money Express which is the counterpart of the Rural Bank of Malinao in its Micro financing program; and
• Microsavers Bank (RB Malinao Inc.), the oldest business unit of the company with branches at Malinao, Aklan and Cabatuan, Iloilo.
John Guidon is presently the Regional Governor of Phil. Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Western Visayas and an active leader/member of various civic organizations both in past and present. He is an entrepreneur with various awards and nominations at the local, regional and national levels and one of Aklan’s Top 10 Tax payers for 2006 and 2007.

Mrs. Mary Jane Pajarillo-Tupaz was born in Puis, New Washington on March 7, 1966. She is happily married to Mr. Noli Tupaz of Bulwang, Numancia, Aklan.
She graduated her elementary education at the Kalibo Pilot Elementary School and her secondary education at the Aklan College. She earned her degree in Bachelor of Science in Nursing at the Saint Gabriel School of Nursing and took her Master of Arts in Education at Aklan College.
Mary Jane has been working in Saudi Arabia for fifteen (15) years. She is presently the Nursing Director of Mohammad Dossary Hospital in Al-Khobar. She has been actively organizing medical missions and other activities in aid of her fellow Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs).
With her dedication to work, President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo conferred her "Natatanging Bayani" Award, one of the twelve awardees. Her socio civic works and her immediate response to an airline emergency, earned for her the highest honor, the Blas F. Ople Award which set her apart from her other co-awardees.

Mrs. Marlyn Refol Bagacay is the Municipal Assessor of Altavas, Aklan since 1987. Under her able leadership and management, the Municipal Assessor’s Office was chosen as the Most Outstanding Municipal Assessment Office in Region VI for three years (2006, 2005 and 2003) and the Most Outstanding Municipal Assessment Office in Aklan (2006). Her dedication to work made it possible for her to earn several awards at the national, regional and local levels. She was awarded as one of the Ten Outstanding Municipal Assessors of the Philippines on March 27, 2008 by the Bureau of Local Government Finance.
Aside from the regular functions of her office, Mrs. Bagacay has initiated the "Handog Titulo" distribution in Altavas on Nov. 14, 2007 in coordination with the Land Reg. Authority and the Registry of Deeds. She has also supported the Department of Agrarian Reform in the Land Reform Program and assisted the Bureau of Land Personnel in their campaign for Free Patent Application of agricultural land.
Mrs. Marlyn Refol – Bagacay was born in Altavas, Aklan to spouses Luthero and Maria Refol. She is married to Mr. Rodrigo C. Bagacay. They have two children, Jude Benedict and Abygail.

Mr. Raymundo C. Cawaling is presently connected at the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist. He plays a key role in Natural Resource Management, Fishery Law Enforce-ment and livelihood particularly the imple-mentation of the Integrated Coastal Zone Management Program (ICZMP) where his technical expertise contributed much in the implementation of the program in the 12 coastal municipalities of Aklan.
He finished his Diploma in Fishery Technology at Aklan National College of Fisheries in New Washington, Aklan (1972-1975) and his Bachelor of Science in Fisheries at Zamboanga State College of Marine Sciences and Technology, Zamboanga City (1990-1991). He took his advanced education in Master in Public Admi-nistration at ASU, Banga (1991-1995) and his Master in Marine Affairs at the University of the Philippines (1999-2000).
Mr. Cawaling has been awarded many citations here and abroad. His technical expertise in project feasibility studies preparation was highly commended by Caiyang, Magubahay and Camaligan (CAMACA) Multi Purpose Coope-rative, Inc., Batan, Aklan with more than 500 household members who availed financial grant worth Php 4.3 million from the Philippine Australian Community Assistance Program (PACAP).
In the implementation of Asian Development Project (ADB-ADP), he was commended for having served the most number of beneficiaries in the province of Aklan. One of his great achievements and pride of Aklanons, Mr. Cawaling is one of the UN volunteers from the Philippines who helped revived fisheries in East Timor.
He was born on October 16, 1956 to spouses Juan Nepo-muceno Cawaling and Estelita Dela Cruz of Kalibo, Aklan. He is married to Engr. Julie Macahilig-Cawaling . They have two children, Denise Pardilla and Shira Bea Cawaling. /MP

2 Iloilo Journalists Attend 2008 Global Grand Reunion in Las Vegas

2008-05-16T18:17:00.000-07:00

by Janice P. Cuambot

Iloilo journalists Jonavin V. Villalva and Alex P. Vidal have been invited to attend the 5th Global Grand Reunion of the Central Philippine University at the Orleans Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada on June 29-July 3, 2008.
In a commu-nication, CPUFOAA president Perla Guillergan Londres wrote: "Come and join in the fun, fellowship and camaraderie with ‘old’ and new friends. Come to relive treasured school day memories and make new ones."
Villalva and Vidal are scheduled to cover the World Boxing Council (WBC) lightweight championship fight between Manny Pacquiao and David Diaz at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino on June 28 in Las Vegas.
"After the Pacquiao fight, we will honor the invitation and be part of the global reunion," said the 39-year old Villalva of MBC Aksyon Radyo Iloilo.
Texas-based photojournalist Rufino "Pinoy" Gonzales, editor-in-chief of Philippines News Service (PNS), earlier informed Vidal, who studied psychology in CPU in 1998, that they would be accommodated.
"Come to show your support for the school that provided excellent education and training. Come because you believe in what Reunions are all about—bridging the separation brought about by time and distance, so that we can once again celebrate as one body, our Central Spirit," added Londres’ invitation.
"I thank God that we are able to make the 5th Global Reunion a reality in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA on June 29-July 3, 2008. Your presence is vital to the success of this endeavor. Please send your registration early to avail of special pricing in both registration and lodging. Invite your friends and family to join you—the more, the merrier.
"Our theme, in conjunction with the CPUAAI’s motto, is "CPU Heritage: Our Pride." Even as we remember our past, let us look with anticipation and joy to the years to come; more importantly, let us appreciate the blessings we enjoy today, and make special moments with those whose lives are entwined with ours, through our common heritage and God’s love.
"I look forward to seeing you next June. It will make my day!"
Gonzales, an active Centralian, said big names from Iloilo’s most respected university are also expected to attend the global reunion. /MP

David Diaz May Not Be As Lethal Compared To Carlos Ortiz

2008-05-16T18:16:00.000-07:00

By ALEX P. VIDAL

Manny Pacquiao may rewrite boxing history when he tries to record what the immortal Gabriel "Flash" Elorde failed to achieve in 1964 and 1966: pole vault from super-featherweight (130 pounds) to fight and win the world lightweight (135 pounds) crown.
Elorde, a Hall of Famer and the greatest Filipino prizefighter, failed twice in as many ambitions to crush Puerto Rico’s Carlos Ortiz in two bloody world lightweight championship encounters.
Elorde, who reigned as world junior lightweight champion (superfeatherweight) for seven years, was southpaw like Pacquiao but had no match to the orthodox and New York-based Puerto Rican.
Elorde (88-27, 33 KO) lost both fights on brutal technical knockouts (TKO) in the 14th frame—first on February 15, 1964 in Manila and second on November 28, 1966 in New York.
On June 28 at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino, Las Vegas, Nevada southpaw Pacquiao, 29, (46-3, 35 KO) will duke it out with fellow southpaw World Boxing Council (WBC) lightweight champion David Diaz (34-1, 17 KO) for 12 rounds.
In terms of durability and winning streak percentage, experts have compared the indestructible Ortiz to Diaz, a member of the 1996 US Olympic team and many-time Golden Gloves champion.
Diaz, 31, however, pales in comparison to Ortiz (61-7, 30 KO) when it comes to activity and longest number of winning avalanche. In 1955, for instance, the year Ortiz turned professional, he scored 12 straight wins, eight of them by knockouts.
When Ortiz first tore Elorde to shreds, he incurred four losses but was never stopped.
Diaz will trade mitts with Pacquiao in a fight dubbed "Lethal Combination" carrying a stigma of a savaged 8th round TKO lost to Kendall Holt on February 4, 2005.
Having tasted the dust like Pacquiao (who was himself flattened twice—first by Rustico Torrecampo and second by Medgoen 3-K Battery), Diaz may not be as lethal as Ortiz who demolished Elorde.
AFC Challenge Cup
"We can beat Tajikistan"
Optimism is different from reality. Philippine Football Federation (PFF) technical director Juan Cutillas emphasized. He admitted the host country’s chances against Tajikistan, defending champion in the Asian Football Challenge (AFC) Cup 2008 Group B qualifying competition set in Iloilo City on May 13-18 are "0-60."
But Cutillas, 67, cited two facts that could tilt the odds in favor of the Philippines:1.Ground conditions in Iloilo are not really good; and 2. The weather condition is not favorable to the visitors.
He said the Tajikistans are used to playing in winter.
‘CeIf we can beat Takijistan it will be our big achievement considering that they are ahead of Vietnam and Thailand in the current standing," stressed Cutillas, who first became coach of RP Team in 1969.
In terms of tactical mastery, the Filipinos have a big chance of beating Tajikistan, explained Cutillas, a Spanish national who migrated to Australia.
He also warned that "Bhutan and Brunei should not be taken lightly. "Cutillas described Brunei booters as "skillful" while Bhutan players, he said, run a lot "and they can run for 24 hours."
He predicted difficult games against Bhutan and Brunei
RP XI will debut versus Brunei on May 13 at 3:30 pm at the Iloilo Sports Complex and will tangle versus Tajikistan in the same venue on May 15.
The nationals will wrap up the four-nation, six-day hostilities on May 17 at the Barotac Nuevo Football Plaza in Barotac Nuevo, some 40 kilometers away from Iloilo City.
Topnotcher will advance to the ACC finals set in Hyderabad, India on July 30-August 10, 2008. /MP

Sugilanon Ni Tita Linda

2008-05-16T18:14:00.000-07:00

Ni Tita Linda Belayro

Ro Katapusan Nga Heredero Heredero

Mabuhay eon nga owa it Hari rong Kaharian it Meng. Ro naga pungko bilang hari hay imaw ro ministro. May interes ro ministro nga mag pabilin sa trono, busa guina regaluhan nana ro ibang mga opisyal it palasyo. Agud mag abo ro anang manggad, sige man ro anang pinaubra it mga proyekto sa palasyo ogaling owa man it poeos sa mga tawo tongod mga pamilya eamang nana ag anang mga opisyal ro naga benepisyo.
Nag-abot eon ro tag gutom. Abo ro mga pobreng owa it guina kaon. Sige ro andang pagsinggit ag pagprotesta ogaling nangin bulag ag bongoe ro ministro. Una sa palasyo hay owa it gutom bangud una kanda tanan ro kita it palasyo. Nagpadayon ro kalisod sa mga tawo. Sige ro andang pinangamuyo nga konta hay may makasalvar kanda ag maduea eon ro ministro una sa palasyo.
Isaeang adlaw, may ermitanyo nga halin sa maeayo nga lugar ro nag-abot sa rayang palasyo. May daea imaw nga mayad nga balita. Suno kana, may una eon nga natawo nga eapsag nga mangin hari. Rayang eapsag hay guina ban-tayan it ap-at ka puersa agod indi mapatay maskin sin-o ag sa tama nga owa it nakasayod.
Indi eang sanda maduea-an it pag-eaum. Ro ap-at ka puersa imaw ro hangin, kaeayo, tubi ag katamnan. Ro hangin ro nagata-o it kabuhi, ro kaeayo ro naga tao it kainit, ro tubi ro bueong sa uhaw ag ro katamnan ro anang pagkaon. Owa imaw naga kaon it karne kundi tanum ag prutas eamang. Tongod kara, halipatan eon ko tanan ro andang problema.
Madasig ro pag-taliwan it oras, ka’t abo nga mga tawong guin pang dakup it hari bangud owa naga bayad it buhis. Kon indi sanda maka bayad hay paga utdan it oeo. Abo nga owa nakabayad bangud sa kapobrehon.
Kat una eon sanda sa plaza para utdan it oeo, nag hangin it mabaskog, umuean ag nagpangilat. Pag pundo it hangin ag kilat, may nagpakita nga isaeang ka naka kabayo. Naga mascara pa imaw it itum. Guin pangsalbar ro mga guin utdan it oeo. Guin eagas imaw it mga soldado it ministro. Ogaling madasig imaw nga naduea.
Naka abot ro balita sa hari. Duro guid ro anang kaakig ag guin pausoy nana ratong itom nga kabalyero. Masunod nga adlaw, guin obra eon man it kabalyero hay guin pabuksan ro bodega it pagkaon. Guin panghakot ko mga tawo ag owa guid it mahimo ro mga soldado tongod una naga bantay ro kabalyerong itom.
Indi eon matakuran ko hari ro guin obra ko kabalyerong itom. Guin patawag nana ro anang madyekero o manog hula. Suno sa manghuhula, raya ro katapusan nga heredero nga natawo sa isaeang ka babayeng naga trabaho sa palasyo. Onga imaw it isaeang ka prinsipe ko kaharian. Sa kahadluk sa amang hari, guin paea-as ratong babaye ag idto imaw nag estar kaibahan it ermitanyo sa sueod it uengib.
Pagkamatay it ermitanyo, guin taw-an imaw it kinaadman nga ap-at agod gamiton sa pag-eopig sa sin-o man nga naga olipon sa mga tawo. Guin gamit nana rayang kinaadman agod masalbar ro mga tawo ag mapundo man ro pagpamintas ko ministro sa mga tawo. Paagi sa anang kinaadman nga kaeayo, guin bugahan nana ro palasyo ag nasunog kadungan ko pagkatupok ko mga haligi. Tanan sa sueod it palasyo hay nagkaeamatay.
Pagkalipas it pitong adlaw, guin kaayad ko mga tawo ro palasyo. Guin pakaon sa tawo ratong pagkaon sa bodega. Ka’t himos eon ro tanan ag nagtindog eon ro andang palasyo, guin presentar ro itom nga kabalyero, ro minatuod nga Heredero ko kaharian it Meng bilang bag-ong hari. /MP

Isyung Police

2008-05-16T18:12:00.000-07:00

Aklan PPO Commends
PNP Personnel

The Aklan Police Provincial Office (Aklan PPO) awarded the certificates of commendation to PNP personnel who successfully finished their post graduate studies for calendar year 2007-2008.
The awarding of commendation is part of the Project "Pagdayaw" initiated by the Police Regional Office 6 Regional Director PCSUPT Isagani Rife Cuevas. Project Pagdayaw recognizes the invaluable contribution of the PNP personnel uplifting the image of the PNP organization with their efforts of pursuing personal development by finishing post graduate courses and Bachelor of Laws.
It also includes the recognition of the PNP personnel who have successfully sent all their children to college, whose children have graduated with honors in any course (Elementary, High School, College, Post Graduate Studies) or passed the Bar Examination, Medical Board and other Licensure Examinations.
The awardees who received the commendations last May 5, 2008 at Aklan PPO Provincial Headquarters are Police Inspector Maximo Sumeg-ang, Jr, Officer In-charge of Ibajay Police Station who successfully acquired his Master in Public Administration in Iloilo City, and SPO1 Bernard Ufano, investigator of Numancia Police Station who graduated of Bachelor of Laws in Aklan Catholic College, Kalibo, Aklan.
"Learning is a continuing process" wherein our PNP personnel is continuously doing this which really resulted to the upliftment and high morale in PNP organization, Deputy Provincial Director Police Superintendent Larry Decena said during the activity. (PO1 Nida L Gregas, DPIO-Aklan PPO).

Aklan PPO Receives
Transformation Torch

Kalibo, Aklan, May 9, 2008 – The Philippine National Police in its earnest desire to have a long term and lasting reforms within the organization gave birth to a symbolic PNP Transformation Torch. On October 1, 2007 during the PNP Change of Command ceremony wherein Her Excellency President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo was the guest of Honor and Speaker a symbolic turn-over of the Transformation Torch took place.
In her speech, she remarked that she liked the torch ceremony and encouraged the Chief, PNP, PDG AVELINO I RAZON, JR. to go on and continue the PNP Transformation Program as it aims to improve the quality of police services; strengthen law enforcement capabilities and enhance the welfare and benefits of the PNP personnel and dependents.
One of the major projects under the PNP ITP is the Advocacy Program under Key Result Area: Public Information and Advocacy, aimed to provide mechanisms for winning the Transformation Program through public understanding and support and for public stakeholder information and feedback on the reform process.
The PNP in its advocacy campaign on the Transformation Program, thus, conceptualized the Torch Run: Running the Race Towards Genuine Transformation and Aklan Police Provincial Office as one of the pilot sites of the ITP received the Transformation Torch on May 12, 2008. It commenced with a platoon size run from the Aklan Provincial Capitol site as the assembly area spearheaded by our very own and active Provincial Director PSSUPT BENIGNO B. DURANA, JR. and the contingents from Antique PPO headed by PSSUPT REN DARROCA towards Aklan Police Provincial Office grandstand where the program of the proper turn-over of the symbolic torch transpired.
Representatives from other Public Safety Sectors, Local Government Units (LGU) and other Government Offices, Non Government Organizations (NGO), members of the tri-media were invited to grace the activity .Integrated Transformation Program briefing took place after the program at the APPO Multi-purpose hall with PSSUPT BENIGNO B. DURANA, JR. as the resource speaker. (PINSP Aileen A Rondario- PIO-Aklan PPO) /MP

Kalibo International Airport Welcomes Probing Taiwanese Flight

2008-05-16T18:11:00.001-07:00

One of the fastest growing urbanized town in Region 6 with a reputation as one of the busiest airports in Panay, Kalibo International Airport is expecting to receive a probing and inaugural flight from Taipei, Taiwan on May 31, 2008 at around 6:00 to 7:00 in the Morning.
According to Airport Manager, Engr. Percy Malonesio, the 168-seater Boeing 737 Series 800 aircraft of Mandarin Airlines envisions two flights a week with a Kalibo-Taipei and vice versa route that will ferry Taiwanese tourists in and out of Aklan.
"This new flight is a welcome addition to the regular Asian Spirit flights from Incheon, South Korea. It will open more avenues of economic opportunities in tourism not only for the island of Boracay but also for Kalibo through the promotion of the Mother of Philippine Festivals, the Kalibo Sto. Niño Ati-Atihan, and the Green Pearl of the Orient, the Bakhawan Eco-Park," said Kalibo Mayor Raymar A. Rebaldo.
Just this week, the construction of the Terminal Building of the Kalibo International Airport started barely two months after its reclassification as one of the ten international airports in the Philippines. (by Terence Toriano) /MP

PhilVISA Adopts Seamless Travel Launches Boracay Escapade

2008-05-16T18:03:00.000-07:00

bY ULYSSES V. ESPARTERO

BORACAY – The Philippine Visitors-Investors Services & Assistance (PhilVISA) recently launched its Boracay escapade 3-day promo for tourists and guests coming from Iloilo.
PhilVISA Chairman and former Bacolod Congressman John Orola claims the PhilVISA concept is the first of its kind in the ASEAN region where a tourist or a traveler is free from any hassle.
"We offer all services that may be required like sea, air and land travels packed into one that the travelers may enjoy at any time of the day whole year round," Orola now chairman of Bacolod and Cultural Council stressed.
PhilVISA President Emmanuel B. Aguilar told Madyaas Pen that the project is in cooperation with JNO Holidays-AeORO Tours, Vallacar Transit, Ocean Jet, Fast Ferries, Rovi Navigation, Ampo Shipping , AViSA-HOST, Boracay Association of Resorts, Restaurants & Independent Allies (BARRIA), Boracay Land Transport Muti-Purpose Cooperative, Allan Fun Tours & Aklan Jetty Port Administration.
DOT Regional Tourism For Excellence Awardee Maximino P. Zurbito, Jr. pointed out that the simple thing the PhilVISA offers is the cost for a luxury of living in an atmosphere of the real family home while on holiday, vacation or official visit and stay in Boracay.
"From us likewise, are souvenir shops with varied specialty products, transport and tour, massage and other allied services, all packed into one. With us, one has every piece of the island paradise and beyond, where sleeping plus many more need not be expensive," he assured.
For guests coming from Bacolod, included in the package are round-trip fare fast craft (Bacolod/Iloilo/Bacolod) air conditioned Ceres Bus (Iloilo/Caticlan/Iloilo) on reserved seats; air conditioned ferry (Caticlan/Boracay/Caticlan); Assistance on Arrival and Departure; transfers via multi-cab to and from resort; Terminal & Environmental Fees; up to 20 percent discounts on rooms, meals, drinks, tours and souvenir items from BARRIA member establishments in Boracay Island, Iloilo & Bacolod
For tourists coming from Manila, the package includes, 2 nights, 3 days accommodation with regular breakfast at BARRIA member economy resort all in beachfront (4 to a room); Round Trip (Set-In a Coach) modern air conditioned bus on regular schedule (Manila/Roxas, Mindoro/Manila) daily departure; roundtrip boat fare via Maharlika Ferries (Roxas, Mindoro/Caticlan) including Assistance; round trip boat-rides via air conditioned ferry or pump-Boat (Caticlan/Boracay/Caticlan only); welcome and departure drinks at the resort; assisted transfers via multi-cab on arrival and departure in Boracay Island; up to 20 percent discount on tours, meals, drinks and souvenir items from BARRIA member resorts. /MP

Editorial May 4 -10,2008 Issue

2008-05-10T01:04:00.000-07:00

Increasing Prices
Drives Filipinos to Poverty

“Has Inflation Hurt The Poor? Regional Analysis in The Philippine”, is a study Asian Development Bank conducted (ADB).
Hyun Son, ADB economist said, “for every 10 percent increase in food prices, about 2.3 million Filipinos fall into poverty”. If the price of rice alone will increase to 10 percent, some “660,000 people will swell the ranks of the poor”. Families are caught in this struggle, not of their choice, will cut down spending on health, education, clothes and even housing.
The study analyzed the impact of price increases both in food and non-food commodities with the use of the years 2003 – 2006 data on the living standards of Filipinos across income levels.
The study found that a 10 percent increase in price of non-food commodities like fuel and utilities would drive 1.7 million people to poverty. The increase in Akelco rates for instance would drive people to the status of the poor.
Furthermore, “about 160,000 more Filipinos would slip into poverty with every 10 percent increase in fuel prices alone”. For the period 2003–2006, “the severity of poverty rose by 16.8 percent while the standard of living declined by about one (1) percent over the period”, the report said as published in the PDI issued on May 9, 2008.
With these findings in a credible study, what does the government do to alleviate poverty? Until today, the government has not approve the “Cheaper Medicine Bill” into law. Malacañang has turned with deep ears to the proposal of Senator Mar Roxas to suspend the collection of E-VAT. With the cost of fuel increasing almost weekly, the Filipinos will have no place to go but to be poor.
This price increases is giving to the poorest the greatest impact which are the majority of the Filipino populace. In Aklan, specifically, 42 percent belong to the below the poverty threshold. It will be worst for these households struggling to meet the minimum living standard. They may not have alternatives but to cut on food expenses, health, education, clothing and shelter. The urban poor will be badly hit too.
The government must now be prepared to respond to any worst scenario resulting to this ever increasing prices of basic life requirements.
Not only urban dwellers are the sure victims of this price increases. Small farmers are badly hit, and they are terrible victims. The government so far is solving the shortage of rice by importation. It buys imported rice quite high, but it buys palay of the small farmers at a very low price. The government has been insulting the palay farmers by buying their palay at low cost and importing rice at high cost. This is ignorance to the importance of Filipino farmers in nation building.
The Philippines by now could have been a surplus rice producer if it has only constructed irrigation systems instead of fertilizer scam and other scams.
The government must act now to mitigate poverty by instituting reforms, review irrelevant policies and streamline it to arrest poverty. /MP

Entrepreneurial Farmer

2008-05-10T01:03:00.000-07:00

Are You Philhealth Non Paying Member?

Last week, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (Philhealth) issued me my membership Identification Card. A portion of the certification at the back of the ID states: “the person…his/her legal dependents…are entitled to all rights and privileges under the National Health Insurance Program.
Well and good. But in the front side of the ID just above my picture states: Non Paying Member” in red letters.
This is very degrading to a former government worker who have been deducted from his monthly salary the insurance premiums and were paid to Philhealth. It is very shameful for me to allow others to see my Philhealth ID as “non-paying member”. They say, “nobody wil give you something for nothing”. To Philhealth management, government retirees have long paid their insurance premiums.
Philhealth must change this membership category of “non-paying member” to “prepaid-member”. I have paid all my insurance premiums to Philhealth several years ago.

Calizo Aklan Media Bowling Cup

Hon. Gabrielle V. Calizo gave the keynote speech in the 1st Vice Gov. Gabrielle V. Calizo Aklan Media Bowling Cup”. The opening program which was held in the afternoon of Thursday, May 8 at Q–Zone Bowling Center, Estancia, Kalibo, Aklan, Vice Governor Calizo in her keynote speech stressed the importance of sports in the lives of the people particularly among the practicing journalists. Calizo reiterated her total support especially for the advancement and welfare of the tri-media practitioners.
The short program started with the invocation led by Joselito Edwin Ramos followed by the singing of the Philippines National Anthem.
SM Augusto C. Tolentino gave his message as chairman of the KBP – Aklan chapter. Tolentino stressed the importance of the bowling tournament in strengthening friendship, cooperation and understanding among the tri-media members.
Boy Ryan B. Zabal, president – APDPC presented the competing teams consisting of about 60 members as white, blue, red, gray, green and yellow teams. Arnel I. Relampago led in the reading of athletes oath.
In my inaugural throw, the ball passed the canal similar to that of Gus Tolentino’s and Vice Gov. Calizo’s. However, we got “strikes” in the second ball.
Melrose “Megs” Lunn was the emcee. I was chosen to welcome the guests, visitors and participants to the bowling tournament. I wish to share with you my thoughts in my very short welcome message as:
“Greetings! I humbly welcome you all to the “1st Vice Gov. Gabrielle V. Calizo Aklan Media Bowling Cup”.
Aklan tri-media is making history this afternoon. For more than 50 years of existence of the Aklan Press Club, Inc. as claimed by those who were ahead of us like Atty. Ronquillo C. Tolentino, Mr. Johnny P. Dayang, and others. It is only this afternoon which a bowling tournament among the tri media practitioners is being held. This is history in the making.
This bowling tournament is most welcome to foster cooperation, friendship, understanding; to generate interest in sports and provide fun among us.
I must congratulate Mr. Boy Ryan Zabal who conceptualized this tournament. With about a hundred of us, it is only Boy Ryan Zabal who thought of and does this sports project we are about to participate now.
Again, our lovely Vice Governor Gabrielle V. Calizo has consented to us to use her name as “1st Vice Governor Gabrielle V. Calizo Aklan Media Bowling Cup.” I understand, she is also helping bank roll the expenses for this sports competition.
Indeed, she is demonstrating her whole hearted support for the welfare and well being of the Aklan Media professionals! What more can we ask her?
According to Colton, “men are born with two eyes, built with one tongue in order that they should see twice as much as they say”.
So, I urge you fellow members of the media to participate in and watch the game as it unfolds before us.
And let us remember, as we participate in the games the advise of Grantland Rice when he said: “When the Great comes to pen your name, he marks not that you won or lost, but how you played the game”.
In the name of the tri-media in Aklan, I warmly welcome you to this 1st Vice Governor Gabrielle V. Calizo Aklan Media Bowling Cup.
We will all win. Congratulations!”

AKELCO
Receives Awards

The National Electrification Administration (NEA) gave Akelco two awards. First, NEA awarded Akelco the “Highest Amortization” award and second, the “Best In Collection Performance”.
Akelco General Manager Chito Peralta attributed the awards to the Akelco Board of Directors, employees and member consumers in 17 towns of Aklan, and Pandan and Libertad, Antique. Peralta pointed out, “Akelco could not have received those awards if not for the support of the board (of directors), the employees and the consumer–members.” Indeed, Akelco could not have paid the highest loan amortization and could not have best in collection performance without the prompt payment of the consumer members.
Despite this cooperation, Akelco still applied for a general rates adjustment with the ERC that will greatly increase the electric power rates in all consumer categories. Akelco signed also an “Amended EPPA” with General Business Power Corporation which some corporate lawyers called “onerous” agreement, too bad for its member consumers. /MP

PAL Express Inaugurates Boracay Flights Flies To 22 New Routes

2008-05-10T01:02:00.000-07:00

PAL Express, the new, low-fares brand of Philippine Airlines, will serve 22 inter-island routes at the outset, including some provincial points currently without air service or underserved by other players, PAL president Jaime J. Bautista announced today.
“With PAL Express, Philippine Airlines is reassuming its traditional mandate of providing quality, affordable air service to outlaying communities. Such air link has historically acted as spur for the development of these areas.” Said Bautista.
“PAL Express also allows PAL to offer a low-fare yet high value alternative in many trunkline and tourist routes such in Caticlan,” he added during arrival ceremonies of the inaugural PAL Express flight from Manila on May 5.
Other PAL officials on board the maiden flight were Deputy Chief Executive Officer Henry So Uy and Assistant Vice President for Sales Antonio Herrera.
On hand to welcome the delegation were Vice Governor Gabrielle V. Calizo and Atty. Diego M. Luces, members of the Boracay travel trade; and representatives from the media.
Caticlan destination of PAL Express, which will operate 12 flights daily from Manila starting May 5. Brand-new, 50-seater Bombardier Q300 turbo-propeller aircraft are deployed on the high-traffic route. /MP

Joint Barangay Infiltration: A Blood Letting Activity

2008-05-10T00:59:00.000-07:00

by Sgt. Glenn I. Zolina

Brgy. Guinbaliwan residents are shown during the blood letting on May 5, 2008.

The Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC) Aklan Chapter, the 31st Aklan 3CMOU, CMOG, PA and Sabino Junkshop jointly conducted a blood letting activity held at Barangay Guinbaliwan, New Washington, Aklan on May 5, 2008.
This is the first ever project of this kind in the history of Barangay Guinbaliwan had conducted. This blood letting activity was in consonance with the directive from the Department of Health (DOH). It was made through the efforts of barangay officials headed by Brgy. Captain Vicente Quimpo, Hon. Elisa Sabino Rodriguez and barangay health workers led by Mrs. Carmelita Y. Quimpo.
In an interview conducted by Sgt. Glenn I. Zolina (Inf) PA with Dr. Elepoldo P. Magpusao-PNRC, Physician In-charge, he stressed that one of the objectives of this activity is to collect blood ranging from 5,000 units per year. So far, “we have only 1,400 units collected which is not enough to support the required blood unit needed in the province of Aklan. With this activity, the PNRC-Aklan together with DOH personnel and staff wish to convey their thanks to the blood donors of Brgy. Guin-baliwan and for their time and efforts to help solve blood scarcity problem in the province of Aklan”. Magpusao also encouraged other municipalities and Barangays in Aklan to do the same activity.
The breakdown of blood donors are: Type A-5, Type B-3, Type O-7 and Type AB-5 for a total of 10,000 ml blood collected.
Likewise, a film showing entitled “Welga”, “Huwad Na Pangarap”, and Katleen Santos Story @ Kat-Kat-a former LFS member killed by NPA” were played by the personnel from 3CMOU, CMOG, PA headed by Sgt. Rizalino N. Rodriguez, 31st Aklan POT, NCOIC. The film showing enabled the people to understand the strategy CPP/NPA/NDF to manipulate the mind set of their target individuals.
Once again, “An ounce of Blood you give a precious life you save.” /MP

Aklan Honors 14 Outstanding Citizens

2008-05-10T00:58:00.000-07:00

As one of the highlights of the 52nd Aklan Day celebration, the provincial government of Aklan recognized 14 of its citizens as outstanding in 14 different fields of endeavors. (Second of three parts)

Most Rev. Raul Q. Martirez was ordained priest on March 18, 1961 at Immaculate Conception Cathedral in Roxas City. He was again ordained as bishop on March 24, 1983 on the same church. Today his residence is in Christ the King Parish, Green Meadows, Quezon City after long years as Bishop in the Diocese of Antique.
Bishop Martirez was born on February 9, 1938 and the eldest son of the late Dr. Napoleon Alba-Martirez and Patrocinio Reyes-Quimpo of Kalibo, Aklan.
He graduated his elementary education in New Washington, Aklan and his secondary and Philosophy education in St. Vincent Ferrer Seminary, Jaro, Iloilo City. He obtained his Theology in Central Seminary, UST, Manila and continued his BSE in Colegio de la Purisima Concepcion, Roxas City. To further his studies, he finished his Canon Law in Angelicum University, Rome, Italy.
In his public life serving God and his fellow men here and abroad, Bishop Martirez served as: Parochial Vicar, St. Joseph, Banga, Aklan; Professor and Dean of Students, St.Pius X Seminary, Roxas City; Diocesan Director, Cursillos in Christianity; Secretary, Diocesan Senate of Priests, Rector, St. Pius X Seminary, Roxas City; Parochial Vicar, St. Camillus Parish, Rockway, N.Y.; Chaplain, Carmel Monastery, Domont, Paris, France; Chaplain, Heiliges Kreuz Church, Dorstadt, Germany; and Rector, St. Joseph Regional Seminary, Jaro, Iloilo City.
He was also a Member of the Permanent Council, Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), the Episcopal Commission Family and Life and Chair, Episcopal Commission for Non-Believers until March 24, 2002.

Judge Maria Carrilo Zaldivar, or Nay Nani as she was fondly called, was born in Numancia, Aklan to Mr. Felimon Leyson Carillo and Mrs. Macrina Irao Carillo on December 5, 1924. She was married to the late Hon. Amideo Zaldivar, former Mayor of Nabas, Aklan. This union was blessed with two children, Cristanciano (deceased) and Amarie.
She spent her elementary years in Numancia Elementary School and her high school at Aklan Central Institute and Kalibo Institute. After she finished her Bachelor of Laws from Siliman University in 1951, she took the Bar Examination in August 1951 and passed it with a rating of 80.6 percent. She began her private law practice thereafter. As member of the Integrated Bar of the Philippines – Aklan Chapter, she served as its President for two terms (1995 -1997, 2005 – 2007).
Judge Zaldivar started her career as a public servant in 1955. Though, the political arena was then considered as men’s turf, she became the Deputy Governor of Capiz Province in February 1955 to December 31, 1955, a year before the separation of Aklan from Capiz. She was Provincial Board member from 1964 – 1967 and as Mayor of Nabas, Aklan for 16 years from 1972 – 1988. As one of the first elected women leaders in Aklan, she paved the way for women in the field of politics. She was appointed Judge of the Regional Trial Court of Aklan from 1990 – 1994. She served as Consultant of the Provincial Governor’s Office from 1996 – 2007.
Judge Zaldivar after 62 years of dedicated public service joined our Maker on February 11, 2008 at the age of 83.

Dr. Ma. Daphne Y.O. Villorente was born on May 24, 1942 in Libacao, Aklan to the spouses, the late Santos Nobleza Orbista and Coronacion Zabala Ycay. She is married to former mayor of Libacao, Engr. Geraldito A. Villorente. They have 3 sons, Gabriel Dennis, Gilbert Dexter and Gerald Dave O. Villorente. She is a career professional and retired district super-visor in the District of Libacao and Madalag.
She graduated her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and Bachelor of Science in Education at Aklan Catholic College. She obtained her degree in Bachelor of Arts major in English in Far Eastern University Cum Laude, and finished her post graduate studies, Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Educational Manage-ment at Gregorio Araneta University Foundation, Malabon, Metro Manila.
Dr. Villorente was inspired by the lines of Martin Vanbee “The kind of world we live in tomorrow depends on the kind of education of our children today”. In heart and in mind guided with this principle in 44 years service in school, education for all and access to education were implemented in the District of Libacao. Many schools were opened like Libacao National Forestry Vocational High School, the Loctuga National High School and more elementary and primary schools in schoolless barangays.
In her supervision, nothing is impossible, today, the Dalagsaan Elementary School which is 45 kilometers away from Poblacion and can be reached by walking for one (1) day passing through rugged terrain, crossing swift current of the rivers is serving grade school. The Taroytoy Primary School is serving from Grade I to IV and other primary schools upgraded to elementary schools which are now catering pupils in the District of Libacao. She raised the academic performance of pupils through intensive supervision of classes in 30 elementary schools in the district, ranking consistently on top 5 of the 19 districts of the division of Aklan.
Dr. Villorente is also a recipient of various certificates of merit, awards and recognitions. In her 44 years of public service, she was awarded Outstanding Public Schools District Supervisor by Regional Director, Pilar Pascual as recommended by Schools Division Superintendent Reinalda I. Magdaluyo, the only one in the Division of Aklan.

Atty. Florentino D. Mabasa is a native of Banga, Aklan. He was born on August 8, 1958. He took his elementary education at Banga Elementary School, Banga, Aklan and secondary education at St. Pius X Seminary in Roxas City, Capiz. He earned his degree in Bachelor of Science in Chemistry at the Far Eastern University in 1978, his degree in Bachelor of Laws at the Ateneo de Manila College of Law in 1982 with Second Honors, and passed the Bar Examinations in 1983.
From 1983 to 1993, he started as practicing lawyer and partner in different prestigious law offices such as Ledesma Saludo & Associates Law office, Agcaoili & Associates Law Office, Lagustan Mabasa & Burgos Law Office. In 1996, he was the General Corporate Law Counsel, Credit Committee Member, and Asset Management and Protection Head with the rank of Vice President of First Philippine International Bank. From 1996 to 1997, he was the Head of Legal Services and Vice President of PDCP Commercial Bank. From 1997 to 1999, he served as the General Counsel, Assistant Corporate Secretary, Human Resource Department Head, and Acquired Asset Management Head of Export and Industry Bank. From August 2, 1999, up to the present, he is the Vice President, Assistant Corporate Secretary and Head of Legal Services Center of the Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company. ( to be continued next issue.)

Pacquiao Crosses The River Of No Return

2008-05-10T00:57:00.000-07:00

By ALEX P. VIDAL

Now that he has crossed the river of no return, so to speak, by scaling the 135 pounds to challenge World Boxing Council (WBC) lightweight champion David Diaz on June 28 in Las Vegas, there is no turning back for the WBC superfeatherweight (130 pounds) champion Manny Pacquiao.
He has to remain in the lightweight division now for the rest of his fistic career.
Win or lose on June 28, Pacquiao cannot anymore accommodate the saber-rattling Juan Manuel Marquez for Pacquiao to engage Marquez in a trilogy in the division where Pacquiao is currently king.
In a third meeting with Marquez, Pacquiao will have everything to lose and nothing to gain.
If Pacquiao will dethrone Diaz, he will become a permanent lightweight attraction and he can only invade the higher division (junior welterweight and welterweight) at his and Fred Roach’s behest and shoot for a fat payroll. But there is no way for him to scale back to the superfeatheweight division just so he can silence the sore loser Marquez.
Since he will relinquish his WBC super-featherweight crown (this is mandatory for any champion who will take a stab at another title in the higher division). Pacquiao will enter the ring at the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino on June 28 as challenger.
If Pacquiao will fail to knock the jewels off from the head of Diaz, he can still continue fighting in the lightweight division or request his benevolent promoter Bob Arum of Top Rank to give him a chance to vie for the junior welterweight fame against Ricky Hatton or face Floyd Mayweather in a Battle Royale in the welterweight division.
If his handlers want Pacquiao to battle the indestructible Oscar dela Hoya in the light middleweight division in his next outing, he must hurt and demolish Diaz convincingly (no more Kelly Pavlik in the middleweight division, please).
Facing the greatest and biggest ring gladiators in the world is the “price” that Pacquiao has to “pay” for leaving the superfeatherweight division and crossing the river of no return.

Pacquiao To Skip Iloilo National Amateur Slugfest

The invitation of the chairman of the country’s city mayors has failed to convince World Boxing Council (WBC) superfeatherweight champion Manny Pacquiao to grace the 2008 National Youth and Women amateur boxing championship slated last May 3-7.
Pacquiao, 29, is scheduled to leave for Los Angeles on May 10 to rev up for the June 28 showdown with WBC lightweight king David Diaz in Las Vegas. He had earlier cancelled his trip to China where he was invited to tour the Olympic facilities in Beijing from April 30 to May 4.
The written invitation was sent by Mayor Jerry P. Treñas, chairman of the League of Cities of the Philippines (LCP) where Pacquiao’s belt carrier, Mayor Evelio “Bing” Leonardia of Bacolod City, is also official.
Treñas had vowed to give a red-carpet welcome to the most popular professional athlete in the country today during the five-day activity organized by the Amateur Boxing Association of the Philippines (ABAP).
Local organizers started to send invitation fillers even before Pacquiao dismissed Juan Manuel Marquez in Las Vegas last March 15,
“He really has a tight schedule and we can’t convince him to honor the invitation to be present in the national amateur championship,” said Rey Golinggan, Pacquiao’s wedding godfather, who visited Iloilo City on April 25.
Golinggan, 65, who sent a team from General Santos City in the amateur boxfest, said he will nevertheless sponsor a despidida party for the 29-year-old boxer cum business management student who is now training in Golinggan’s gym in General Santos City.
Despite Pacquiao’s absence, sports journalist Jonavin Villalva said he was informed by local organizers headed by Winners Promotion representative Marlon Lumacad, Jr. that major sponsors that were earlier informed about the boxing champion’s coming continued to support the event.
“Mr. Lumacad showed to me the list of participating teams mostly from Mindanao and that they have prepared some measures just in case Pacquiao will not show up,” said Villalva, who will cover Pacquiao’s championship rumble with Diaz in Mandalay Bay on June 28 for MBC Aksyon Radyo Iloilo.
Pacquiao’s scheduled press conference in L.A. on May 3 was also moved to 10 days after Top Rank promoter Bob Arum learned that Pacquiao could not make it to the United States until May 10. /MP

COMMENT ON THE BLOG

2008-05-10T00:56:00.002-07:00

“CT Scan Paga Inagurahan”:

I am very glad to know that Aklan has finally decided to get its first CT scan. There should be no reason for a civilized society to be denied access to this technology that is very essential and critical in diagnosing many life threatening diseases.
My guess is that the fee for the technical component (taking the images) for this test is free since it is owned by the provincial hospital. How about the professional component or the interpretation of the test? Are the patients going to be under the mercy of the radiologists from out of town or are they going to be subsidized by the government? Since it is expensive to use this test, are there criteria on who gets it? Is it going to be based on “medical need”, or based on one’s political affiliation, connection or status in the community?
Without knowing the answer to these questions, the supposedly good news will be met with a lot of skepticism. My suggestion is to send our local doctors to Manila to train how to interpret CT scan examinations. Since it is “hooked up in the internet”, I assume it can be accessed by other doctors anywhere in the world who are given a password.
My other suggestion is to ask Aklanons who are practicing in the states who are qualified to interpret specific CT Scan examinations, such as Radiologists, Neurologists, Neurosurgeons, Gastroenterologists, etc., for second opinions on difficult cases. I am certain that they would be willing to donate their time to serve their fellow Aklanons. The test is as good as the one who is reading it.
Even the well trained Specialists need second opinion, more than a few times.
Barok

(Editor: The schedule of payment in the use of CT Scan is stated in Provincial Ordinance No. 2008-003 published on April 20–27 and May 4, 2008 issue of Madyaas Pen. DRSTMH has sent to training physicians to interpret results. At present, Dr. Douglas Budok, a known radiologist is a consultant based in Iloilo City. The provincial government of Aklan is inviting one physician, a diplomate in radiology to go to Kalibo. She is now with St. Lukes Hospital, Quezon City. The use of CT Scan is principally based on medical needs.
Aklanons abroad who are highly qualified to interpret CT Scan results are certainly welcome to assist.) /MP

Sugilanon Ni Tita Linda

2008-05-10T00:56:00.001-07:00

Si Liloy Ag Rong Alilang Ayam

May nagahambae nga mas mayad pa ro ayam nga amigo, ko amigong tawo. Naga bantay sanda kimo sa baeay ag owa naga traidor. Sandang ayam hay naga unong kimo sa tanan nga oras.
May hapueot nga tiyo si Liloy. Naga kurog sa kaeamig ag sa kagutom. Anang guin oba ro anang eambong agod puston ro tiyo. Pagkatapos nana it libod ko anang dyaryo, guin uli nana ro tiyo. Anang guin pakaon it mainit nga noodles hasta naulian. Kada agahon, guina daea nana ro tiyo sa paghatod it dyaryo sakay sa anang bisekleta. Anang guin pangaeanan nga si Bitik.
Sabado, owa it klase, nag-adto sanda sa baybay agod maghampang. Sa andang pagpanaw, may hapueot sanda nga sigay sa baybayon. Andang guin uli ag isueod sa garapon nga may mga bosoe nga hapueot nana sa karsadahon. Dayon nagpahuway.
Samtang naga katoeog ro daywa, may tumugpa nga “spaceship” maeapit sa andang baeay. Halin sa ibang planeta ro spaceship ag may guina usoy nga sigay nga nawigit kuno ko andang prinsesa sa anang pag hinampang. Paagi sa andang monitor, hatunton nanda kon siin ro sigay.
Nag eahay si Bitik. Hakibot ro mga “Aliens.” Indi sanda makasueod sa baeay ni Liloy. Nagpanaw anay sanda. Nagtubo man ratong bosoe ag nangin baeagon nga guin palibutan ro baeay. Tongod karon, indi makasueod maskinsin-o. Nagbunga dayon dayang baeagon ag nangin pagkaon nanday Liloy. Ko ulihi, si Bitik ro guin sugo ni Liloy sa paghatod it mga dyaryo ag ro bayad hay guina butang sa puyo nga naga kabit sa anang li-og.
Bumalik eon man ro mga alien, daea ro mas pwersado nga gamit ag saeakyan. Ogaling hakibot sanda kat makita nga guina libutan it baeagon ro baeay. Guin pabombahan it kaeayo ro baeay ni Liloy, ogaling may tumunga nga robot nga may mas pwersado nga armas. Guin paarakan sanda it bala ag nag paeagiw ro mga alien. Owa eon sanda magbalik.
Ratong robot hay owa it iba kundi si Bitik. Guin padaea imaw halin sa planetary Rox ay sayod sanda ko plano it mga alien nga sakupon ro planetang Earth. Guin saburan nanda it sigay agod mangin giya kon siin sanda matugpa. Pag kasayod ko planetang Rox, guin padaea nanda si Bitik nga isaeang ka ayam agod magbantay sa pag-abot ko mga taga planetang X-Zur. Guin sunog nanday Liloy ratong mga sigay agod indi eon magamit.
Umpisa kato, nangin taga-bantay nanda si Bitik. Naga anyong robot eamang imaw kon indi nana makaya ro kaaway.
Kat matawhay eon sa lugar ni Liloy hay nag eaong nga magbalik si Bitik idto sa andang planetang Rox. Nakapag-asawa man si Liloy it isaeang ka mabuot nga asawa ag may daywa eon sandang mga onga.
Kon hidlawon si Liloy sa anang amigong si Bitik, idto nana guina tangda-a sa eangit ro itsura ni Bitik kaibahan ko mga Bituon nga naga hibayag kana. /MP

NEWS PICTORIALS

2008-05-10T00:41:00.000-07:00

Picture above shows participants of the 1st Vice Gov. Gabrielle V. Calizo Media Bowling Cup during the opening program in the afternoon, May 8 at the Q-Zone Bowling Center, Estancia, Kalibo.

The participants come from all media outfits in Kalibo. Picture at right are Vice Gov. Calizo, Megs Lunn and SM Gus Tolentino, chairman, KBP Aklan Chapter delivering his message.

Picture shows Jaime I. Bautista, PAL President & Chief Executive Officer answering questions from the media during the presscon on May 5. With him are Henry So Uy, (left) Executive Vice Pres. and Capt. Eriberto Medina, President, Air Phils.

PAL donated 8 fire protection gears to the Bureau of Fire Protection - Caticlan as picture above shows.

Atty. Diego M. Luces is shown with Vice Gov. Gabrielle V. Calizo and Undersecretary Gil (center) during the luncheon party tendered by PAL during the PAL Express Inaugural Flight in Caticlan.

NEWS PICTORIALS

2008-05-04T17:49:00.001-07:00

The Aklan Press Club officers and members participating in the civic parade during the 52nd Aklan Day celebration on Friday, April 25.

Picture shows Dr. Douglas B. Budok, a Radiology consultant of the DRSTMH explaining the operation and main-tenance of CT Scan during its inauguration in the afternoon, April 24, 2008.

Kapehan Sa Aklan featured in its every Saturday program on April 26, 2008 the Outstanding Aklanons who were honored in a fitting award ceremonies in the evening of Friday, April 25, 2008 at Augusto B. Legaspi Sports Complex, Kalibo, Aklan. They are ( l to r) Dr. Peter M. Ureta, PhD for engineering; Hon. Wenceslao Enero Ibabao, RTC Judge, Davao City for Judiciary; Atty. Florentino Mabasa, Jr., Vice President, PLDT for corporate law practice; Ms. Philomena Tesorero-Valencia of DTI-Aklan.

EDITORIAL - MAY 3, 2008

2008-05-04T17:46:00.000-07:00

Roxas Calls For 10-Year
Food Security Plan

“The Food Summit should have been convened long before the DA’s admonition for the people to start eating brown rice or half-a-cup of rice. The government was obviously caught flat-footed by the shooting up of rice prices in the world market and we now see an adrenaline rush among executives to come up with abrupt measures.

“We must now convert the current crisis into a genuine opportunity for agricultural reforms. What we need is a ten-year food security plan done quietly but competently in consultation with experts and stakeholders, attuned with global trends and realities but with very clear domestic targets and a realistic to-do list. Otherwise, we will continue to muddle our way through a global regime of soaring food prices. The well-meaning recommendations of different groups during the one-day Summit can be integrated into this ten-year plan.

“A ten-year food security plan must be done soup-to-nuts style, meaning from seed distribution to market access and with social programs to help farmers in between cycles. It must identify the number of driers that the DA will purchase for our farmers per municipality to prevent spoilage and wastage. It also must include a nationwide irrigation plan and funds for Research and Development attuned to specific rice productivity targets for the next ten years. It should include a detailed plan for other non-agricultural food sectors as well.

“We must also consider the fiscal sustainability factor as we are confronted with a humongous rice import bill for the coming months alone. I reiterate my call on the President to convene the LEDAC so we can reach a consensus on interim and long-term solutions to the current food crisis and its impact on our country’s fiscal and economic situation.

“As to public accountability, let’s start with the government’s rice importation program. How much in totality are our rice imports? When were they negotiated, for how much per metric ton, and when will these rice imports actually arrive in Manila? The release of such information is the best assurance to our people that indeed there will be adequate supply of rice in the country for the coming months. I ask the DA and DBM to present this bill of particulars to the people as a sign of their commitment to transparency and accountability in the use of agriculture funds.”

In Southeast Asia, Thailand leads in the Formation of Organization of Rice Exporting Countries (OREC) joined by Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, and Burma. This is actually a rice cartel designed to dictate uniform price of rice in the world market. Where will the Philippines go? Form the Organization of Rice Importing Countries (ORIC)? The Philippines may be alone.

It is hard to believe that the Philippines is experiencing rice shortage when the International Rice Research Institute and the premier agricultural college, the UP at Los Baños are situated in the Philippines. This is a model of a country where the teachers are excellent but her people are poor implementors. /MP

Entrepreneurial Farmer

2008-05-04T17:35:00.000-07:00

Ambrosio R. Villorente

14 Outstanding Aklanons Come From 6 Towns

The provincial government of Aklan, during its 52nd Aklan Day celebration, honored 14 Aklanons as outstanding in their respective chosen professions. Of the 14, some six (6) of them or 43 percent are Numanciahanons. The six are the late Judge Maria Carillo Zaldivar, Judge Wenceslao Enero Ibabao, Ms. Ruth Tagala Palmani, Engr. Ernesto I. Templonuevo, Dr. Peter M. Ureta, and PSupt. William Solano Macavinta.

If Ms. Mary Jane Pajarillo – Tupaz whose husband is Mr. Noli Tupaz of Bulwang, Numancia is counted as a Numancia-hanon, then the number will increase from six to seven (7). This will make 50 percent of the Numan-ciahanons who comprised the year 2008 harvest of Outstanding Aklanons. But I will count Ms. Tupaz as coming from Puis, New Washington.

Going over the list of Outstanding Aklanons of 2008, the 14 are distributed by municipalities as follows: Numancia – 6 or 43 percent; Kalibo – four (4) or 28.5 percent; and Libacao, New Washington, Altavas and Banga has one (1) or 7.13 percent each. The most outstanding Aklanons of 2008 came from only six (6) towns of Aklan.

Eat Camote

Ms. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo has advocated for the eating of camote. Why not? Let the people eat camote, tapioca and “saba” banana. Saba banana is rich in phosphorus, good for the body.

Camote is easy to propagate and to produce. It is a vine which can crawl on the ground thereby serving as cover crop that prevents soil erosion. It does not need too much irrigation water.

Camote leaves or tops are used as vegetables, like salad. The tubers are rich of vitamins and carbohydrates. Why, let us eat camote. It is best for the body and excellent substitute for rice. Let Malacañang lead in the consumption of camote.

In the late 1960’s, former president Ferdinand E. Marcos; the late DANR Sec. Arturo Tanco and DANR Undersecretary JD Drilon cajoled the Filipinos to eat sweet potato, cassava and saba banana to supplement rice. They showed to the people that eating root crops and saba–banana is good for the health, minimizes consumption of rice and it adds income of the marginalized Filipinos.

7 Outstanding Aklanons Are Gov’t . Officials

Going over the records of the 14 Outstanding Aklanons of 2008, it shows seven (7) of them or 50 percent are government officials. This reveals Aklanons are still employment driven. Government job means service to the people. No matter of what quality and quantity of performance a government official produces, he gets rewarded by his monthly salary. He performs bad, he performs well, he is paid.

In business, an entrepreneur gets all the profit, when he performs bad, he assumes all the losses. But he is a poor businessman if he lost all the time. It is time to think business as a way of life. It is in the entrepreneurs that Filipinos can get out of the below the poverty level. Let Filipinos manage their own business, the economy and not entrust it to foreigners.

Further, the records of the 14 show, no one is recognized for his efforts to produce food. Are we not experiencing food crisis today? The reason is simple. We have entrusted food production to our lesser competent countrymen. Our farmers must be of the best and the brightest. He must be of the best of health to withstand the rigors of the weather in the management of his crops either in livestock or plant. It is time to cajole the youth with the best of health and the best and the brightest to engage in food production.

One 2008 outstanding Aklanon, Raymundo Dela Cruz Cawaling on fishery was recognized. However, his achievements were on government fishery laws enforcement, planning assistance to get a grant from foreign government and volunteer service abroad. He was neither engaged directly nor cited in food production, specifically fish.

It is time to recognize productive farmers who contribute to food generation and less of food consumption. /MP