Vol 20, No. 30 | July 27 - Aug. 2, 2015 by Pahayagang BALIKAS

July 27 - Aug. 2, 2015 | Vol. 20, No. 30 | Php 12.00/copy  balikasonline@yahoo.com | 0912.902.7373 | 0926.774.7373

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‘Capitol believes that BSU-CAF, Lobo MAO, bonus distribution is to establish pilot legal,” Montealto turmeric farms >>>NEWS....P/2

>>>LIFETIMES....P/7

Present context of the separation of the Church and the State >>>OPINION....P/4

READ FULL STORY ON

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TINANGGAP ni Pangulong Benigno S. Aquino III mula kay Presidential Communications Operations Office Secretary Sonny B. Coloma Jr. ang commemorative template ng kanyang pasaporte na isinagawa sa inagurasyon ng APO High Security Printing Facility sa LIMA Park sa Malvar. Saksi sa okasyong ito ang mga opisyal ng APO Production Unit na pinamumunuan ni APO Chairman Milagros A. Alora at Batangas Governor Vilma Santos Recto.| L. HERNANDEZ

‘Pro-Mining Endorsement’ binawi na ng Sangguniang Bayan ng Lobo >>>NEWS....turn to P/2

CAPITOL-WIDE DRILL. Para maiwasan ang panganib na dulot ng mga sakuna, isang malawakang earthquake simulation exercise ang isinagawa sa Kapitolyo ng Batangas kung saan lahat ng mga empleyado ng Pamahalaang Panlalawigan at mga partner agencies, gaya ng Philippine Red Cross-Batangas Chapter, Batangas Police Provincial Office, Bureau of Fire Protection at Department of Public Works and Highways ay nakiisa. Sa pangunguna ng tanggapan ng Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, inihanda ang bawat isa sa maaaring maging aksyon kung sakaling magkaroon ng di inaasahang malakas na lindol sa lalawigan. Nagkaroon ng evacuation, search and rescue operations, first aid treatment, fire suppression technique, head count at retrieval operations para ipakita sa mga empleyado at partner agencies ang mismong magaganap sa oras ng sakuna.| KRISTINA MARIE JOY B. ANDAL

ANG BATANGAS UNA SA TRANSPORTASYON.

TURKEY -- Batangas Congressman Raneo Abu, Cong. Cesar Sarmiento (Chairman of the Congressional Committee on Transportation) and Carmelo Arcilla, Director of the Civil Aeronautics Board recently meet with the Turkish Airlines official led by its Vice-President, Harun Basturk and Philippine Country Manager, Ehran Balaban regarding the later's request for additional landing slots for their Philippine operations. Congressman Abu believes that the outcome of the conference will make the airline industry competitive & benefit the OFWs who travel the airline's route. Abu is the Vice-Chairman of the Congressional Committee on Transportation. (TMA)

JULY 27 - AUG. 2, 2015

NEWS 2 ‘Pro-Mining Endorsement’ binawi na ng Sangguniang Bayan ng Lobo balikasonline@yahoo.com

LOBO, Batangas – TULUYAN nang binawi ng Sangguniang Bayan dito noong Lunes, Hulyo 20, ang nauna nitong pag-eendorso ng exploration nd minining operation ng Egerton MRL Gold Mining Project sa Brgy. Mabilog na Bundo, Lobo, Batangas at ilan pang karatig barangay. Sa pamamagitan ng ulat ng Committee on Environment, dininig ng konseho ang panawagan ng mga nagprotesta na humiling na pag-aralang muli ng Sangguniang Bayan ang naunang desisyon nito pabor sa proponent. Lubos naming ikinatuwa ng mga anti-mining advocates ang nagging habang na ito ng konseho. Matatandaang isang malawakang rally ang isinagawa sa Lobo Municipal Plaza noong Hunyo 29

na pinangunahan ng Simbahang Katolika at ipinitesyon ang naunang endorsement ng konseho. Sa naturang rally, inihayag ni Lobo Mayor Jurly Manalo ang kaniyang pagkatig sa mga nananawagang huwag payagang matuloy ang pagmimina sa Lobo na pinaniniwalkaang may malaking epekto sa pagkasira hindi lamang ng Lobo mountain ranges kundi maging sa kabuuann ng Verde Island Passage kung saan pinangangambahang bubuhos ang mine tailings at iba pang kemikal mula sa pagpoproseso ng ginto. Bukod dito, itinuturing ding isang mapaminsalang hakbang ang open-pit mining na binabalak isakatuparan ng Egerton MRL sa mga barangay ng Balibago, Biga, Mabilog na Bundok, Malabrigo, Nagtaluntong, Olo-olo, Sawang, Soloc at Tayuman.|

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Social protection services, pinaigting pa! PINAG-IBAYO pa lalo ni Batangas Governor Vilma Santos Recto ang implementasyon ng kanyang HEARTS program nang naramdaman ng mga Batangueñong estudyante ang tulong pinansyal pagdating sa kanilang pag-aaral sa kolehiyo sa pamamagitan ng Social Protection Services Program. Nakasentro ang nasabing programa sa kalusugan at edukasyon matapos hilingin nina Governor Vilma at Senator Ralph Recto kay Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Dinky Soliman ang pondong nagkakahalagang PhP 105 milyon para sa ikabubuti ng kanilang nasasakupan. Hindi naman nabigo sina Gov. Vi at Sen. Ralph nang agad na aprubahan ang first release na may halagang PhP 47.5M sa lalawigan ng Batangas kung saan ang PhP 30M ay inilaan nila sa edukasyon. Sa tulong ng DSWD at Pro- Ayuda. Personal na ipinamahagi ni Governor Vilma Santos Recto ang vincial Social Welfare and mga tseke bilang ayuda sa ilalim ng provincial scholarship program.| Development Office (PSWDO), naigawad ang pondo sa assistance, na diretsong ipinagkakaloob sa school adminismga mahihirap na estudyante na nagnanais makatulong trators para maiwasan na magamit sa ibang bagay. sa kanilang magulang na matustusan ang kanilang pagSa unang semestre ay makakatanggap ang mapapalad aaral sa kolehiyo. Nangailangan lang ang mga mag-aaral na estudyante ng halagang PhP 8,000.00 at ipinangako ni na magsumite sa tanggapan ng PSWDO ng photocopy ng Governor Vi na kasalukuyang pinoproseso na din ang kanilang school identification card, certificate of indi- pagkakaloob ng scholarship grants para sa qualified gency ng kanilang magulang at assessment form o students sa pagtuntong nila ng ikalawang semestre. certificate of registration mula sa mga eskwelan na Pinaalalahanan ni Gov. Vi ang mga scholars na, “Study kanilang pinapasukan. well. Be competitive. At bilang isang Batangueño, mawala Hanggang sa ngayon ay patuloy ang screening process na ang yaman, huwag lang ang karunungan.”| para sa mga nararapat tumanggap ng naturang financial KRISTINA MARIE JOY B. ANDAL

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Cayetano wants Senate committee to reopen probe on Mamasapano “WHY are we dishonoring the memory of the SAF 44?” Senate Majority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano wants the Senate committee on public order and dangerous drugs to reopen its investigation into the January-25 Mamasapano incident amid the seemingly conflicting findings of various investigative bodies that conducted a probe on the case. In a series of interviews on Friday, Cayetano expressed his deep concern over the Ombudsman’s recent approval of a recommendation to conduct preliminary investigation proceedings and administrative adjudication even against the junior officers and some survivors of the operation, stressing that the decision could lead to a chilling effect on the entire police chain of command. “Gulat na gulat po ako nang pinaimbestigahan pati ang mga Junior Officers ng SAF (who were part of the Mamasapano operation

and survived). Isipin mo, kung ikaw ay isang police officer, police superintendent, o kaya colonel, kapag hindi ka sumunod sa utos na kunin ang teroristang si Usman o Marwan, kakasuhan ka ng insubordination. Ngayon, sumunod ka pero hindi perfect ang operation, at maraming namatay, pero nahuli ang terorista, kakasuhan ka pa din,” the senator said. As such, he wrote a letter to Senator Grace Poe, chairperson of the Senate committee on public order and dangerous drugs that led the probe into the incident, seeking for a reopening of the investigation. “The Senate committee, once and for all, should set out to reveal the entire truth behind this gruesome massacre,” he said, noting that finding justice for the deaths of the 44 elite cops should be a prerequisite for conducting peace talks with armed rebels and securing the safety of the entire Mindanao region.

He further lamented that justice has not even been served in relation to the deaths of the SAF members who were killed in the operation, and now two of the survivors are facing cases. While admitting that there are varying liabilities in the operation that claimed the lives of 44 elite cops, Cayetano said the Ombudsman’s decision demoralizes both police and military officials in the front lines who were merely obeying legitimate orders from their superiors. He pointed out that command responsibility over the failed operation should only rest with those who gave the orders - such as dismissed Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Dir. Gen. Alan Purisima - not the ones receiving them. Cayetano also expressed dismay over the conflicting reports released regarding the incident, including reports from the Department of Justice, Philippine National Police Board of Inquiry, Armed Forces of the Philippines and the MILF. |

Inter-Island News OPAPP: Palawan not included in Bangsamoro Basic Law Entity PUERTO PRINCESA CTIY — In the recently concluded Multisectoral Forum on the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL), Atty. Mohammad Al-Amin Julkipli of the legal team of Office of Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP), categorically said that Palawan province is not included in the draft BBL. Replying to a query from a participant in the forum, he said that Palawan province is not included in the core territories mentioned in the draft BBL which are the existing areas under the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao, six municipalities in Lanao del Norte and 39 barangays in North Cotabato. He also said that Palawan does not qualify for the opt-in clause because the draft emphasizes the contiguousness of a local government unit to the BBL entity as a pre-requisite. “Even if Palawan is mentioned in the Tripoli Agreement, it still does not qualify because it is not contiguous. The opt-in clause stipulates ‘and’; it is not an ‘or’ provision,” said Atty. Julkipli. He also said that the opt-in provision is time-bound and may only be petitioned after the 5th and 10th year of the establishment of the BBL region. The forum was held recently in Puerto Princesa City and was attended by participants coming from the Muslim community, business sector, the academe, youth, civil society, national government agencies, local government unit and the media.| ...........................................................................................................................

24 kalalakihan sa Concepcion, Romblon, nagtapos ng pagsasanay CONCEPCION, Romblon — Dalawampu’t apat na kalalakihan sa bayan ng Concepcion, Romblon ang tumanggap ng livelihood starter kits and tools matapos nilang sumailalim sa livelihood training na pinangasiwaan kamakailan ng Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) at Technical Education and Skills Authority (TESDA) sa pakikipagtulungan ng Malampaya Foundation Inc. Layunin ng pagsasanay na makalikha ng trabaho sa mga mangingisda at magsasakang naapektuhan ng bagyong Yolanda sa naturang bayan. Nilalayon din nito na maturuan ang mga kalahok ng iba’t ibang sistema ng paghahanapbuhay at mapalakas ang kakayahan ng mga ito sa produktibong pamamaraan. Sa limang araw na pagsasanay ay natutunan ng 24 kalalakihan ang small engine and motorcycle servicing, carpentry, masonry, dressmaking/tailoring at souvenir and novelty items making na kanilang magagamit upang pagkakitaan.| ...........................................................................................................................

DTI-Oriental Mindoro spearheads Bulalacao Mini Trade Fair 2015 AS one of the highlights of Bulalacao’s annually celebrated Biniray Festival, the Bulalacao Mini-Trade Fair cum Inbound Business Matching was recently held at Bulalacao Gymnasium, Poblacion, Bulalacao, Oriental Mindoro where eight (8) selected local manufacturers participated in. The said trade promotion initiative of DTI-Oriental Mindoro in collaboration with LGU-Bulalacao served as an avenue to exhibit and sell Bulalacao’s locally-manufactured products wherein local producers were able to showcase and promote their products that aided them to establish market linkages with domestic and institutional buyers and to create new market and increase market access through direct buyer-seller matching. Simultaneously, the exhibit staged the tradition and culture of Mangyans thru actual demonstration of manual weaving that wowed the visitors. Bulalacao’s local manufacturers namely Bulalacao Lamayo Processors Association, Samahan ng mga Kababaihang Maglalala ng Bulalacao, Bulalacao Development Cooperative, Jeds Blanc Food Products, Balatasan Seaweed Farmers Association, Samahan ng mga Manggagawa sa Balatasan, Aplaya Women’s Association, and Samahan ng mga Magsasaka sa Kalibliban ng Bagong Sikat graced the mini-trade exhibit. Most of the said local manufacturers also benefited from DTI’s BUB/GPB and CARP Projects. During the opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony on June 28, 2015, Mayor Edna C. Villas expressed her gratitude to DTI for realizing the Mini-Trade Fair that gave opportunities not merely to sell but also to make the locals and visitors aware of what Bulalacao’s manufacturers can offer as products.

Mayor Edna Villas and the members of Sangguiniang Bayan ng Bulalacao (at the back) MPDO Chiquita Jano and DTI staff.

JULY 27 - AUG. 2, 2015

NEWS

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‘Capitol believes that bonus distribution is legal,” Montealto THE Provincial Government of Batangas continuous to stand by its position that the additional year-end bonus given to its employees in December 2014 is legal and consistent with existing laws and principle of local autonomy. In an audit observation memorandum, Commission on Audit (COA) Region IV-A ordered the refund of P45.352 million worth of bonuses paid out to Batangas provincial officials and employees in 2014 as COA claimed the bonus was a violation of COA Circular No. 2013-003. Speaking in behalf of the Batangas Provincial Government, Provincial Administrator, Atty. Joel Montealto, stated: “We believe that we did not violate COA Circular No. 2013-003 as the provincial government’s grant was given guided by clear legal basis. In fact, we have submitted a letter of reconsideration with the COA Central Office on the matter last July 15, 2015.” Concretely legal and regular, the

2014 incentive was based on Provincial Special Ordinance No. 02-2014 and Provincial Resolution No. 458 that cited the exemplary performance displayed by provincial government employees in delivering basic services and distinguished professionalism in public service. Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Circular 2014-3 also allows local government units (LGUs) to grant incentives as determined by the Sanggunian, depending on the LGU financial capability and subject to personnel services limitation. Further, the Joint Resolution of the Senate and House of Representatives No. 4, Series of 2009, affirms the power of an LGU to determine, through their Sanggunian, the salaries, wages, allowances and other emoluments and benefits of officials and employees. “We respect the COA regional office opinion as it is their job as state auditors to look into government expenses. We welcome their observation as part of the

proper check and balance in our bureaucracy,” empasized Atty. Montealto. “In fact, we have always looked at COA as a partner in prudent public service and have always complied with their procedures,” added the concurrent Provincial Attorney. “We look at the COA observation as an avenue to show that the bonus given was above-board.” Atty. Montealto likewise stressed that the granting of the incentive has not, in any manner, unconstructively affected the delivery of public service as it was solely sourced from savings from personnel expenses. Capitol employees have also been fully informed about the matter ever since the audit observation came up. In fact, the provincial administrator said that, in the event the ruling of COA becomes final and executory, the provincial government personnel would willingly return the performance incentive they received.| BALIKAS NEWS TEAM

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PNoy gets first Philippine e-Passport produced in Batangas high security printing plant MALVAR, Batangas -- President Benigno S. Aquino III set in motion the printing, issuance and delivery of newly-designed and more secure e-Philippine passports as he participated in a live demonstration by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) new Philippine epassport system, July 20. The live demonstration was held at the newly-inaugurated high security printing plant of the APO Production Unit at Lima Technology Center in this town. APO Production Unit's contract to print e-Passports for the DFA is expected to address the country's need for increased production capacity over the next 10 years, as well as upgrade the security and integrity of the electronic travel document to comply with global standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). The new e-Passport system introduces the following: a. passport booklets made of more durable and higherquality materials to last beyond normal wear-andtear period'

b. lesser procedural steps from application stage to personalization and shorter waiting period for passport issuance; and c. new design and security features that prevent fraud, thus enhancing the integrity and credibility of Philippine passports. During the program, the President experienced live the entire process of application for until release of his e-Passport - from enrolment and caputre of biometrics and biographical data, printing and verification - which is performed in a matter of minutes on APO’s newlyacquired machinery. To demonstrate the system’s capability to conduct a similar process off-site at real time, representatives of the overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) communities in Singapore and Doha, Qater participated in a similar process during the live demonstration. The commemmorative ePassports of the President and the OFWs in Singapore and Doha, the first to be printed in the high security

printing plant, were presented immediately to the applicants or their families. Another highlight of the occasion is the unveiling of the historical marker that signals the start of full operations of the APO-Lima High Security Printing Plant and the lvie demonstration of the new e-Passport system, an event graced by the presence of the President. APO Production Unit, Inc. is a government controlled corporation and one of the three recognized printers (RGP), as shown in the General Appropriations Act (GAA) and reaffirmed by the Governance Commission for Government Owned and Controlled Corporations (GOCG). The two others are the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and the National Printing Office (NPO). Presently under the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO), APO was created in 1974 and had in the past been under different government agencies like the NEDA, Office of the Press Secretary, and the Philppine Information

NO BIO, NO BOTO! FOLLOWING the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement between the Commission on Election and Waltermart Community Malls , satellite voters’ registration and biometrics validation services were set up in the latter’s malls.|

Agency. APO, which takes over the production of the new e-Passports that used to be printed by the BSP at its security plant complex in Quezon City, also currently produces at its Lima Security Plant the excise stamps for the Bureau of Internal Revenue. It also maintains the Internal Revenu Stamp Information System (IRSIS), a security software that tracks and traces tobacco products. APO Production Unit has been servicing the various printing needs of the DFA since 2012, providing technical support for the Document Management System of the DFA's Office for Consular Affairs (DFA-OCA). In July 2014, APO opened its new security printing facility at the LIMA Technology Center in Malvar, BAtangas to enable it to address specific needs of the DFA, particularly related to printing delivery schedules and security concerns related to the ePassport system. The 3-hectare property was developed exclusively as

Peace & Order Update Collated By JACK L. AQUINO

3 menor-de-edad, minasaker sa Lipa LUNSOD NG LIPA – TATLONG kabataang magpipinsan ang natagpuang wala ng buhay sa loob ng kanilang inuupahang apartment sa Sitio San Nicolas, Barangay Balintawak, lunsod na ito, Linggo ng umaga. Kinilala ni PSupt. Carlos E. Barde, hepe ng Lipa City PNP, ang mga biktima na sina Princess Oliveros y Culla, 10, ang kapatid nitong si Andrae, 7, at ang pinsan nilang si Joyce Ann Oliveros y Rubianes, 8. Batay sa ulat ni Barde kay PSSupt. Omega Jireh Fidel, panlalawigang director ng pulisya sa Batangas, Iniwan ng kanilang lola ang mga bata habang natutulog pa bandanag ala-una y media ng medaling araw upang magtinda sa palengke, ngunit nang maghahatid ng almusal ang ang isa pang pinsan ng mga biktima na si Arthur Cunanan y Oliveros, nasorpresa na lamang ito nang madatnang naliligo sa sariling dugo ang mga biktima at pawang wala ng buhay. Kaagad na ipinagbigay-alam sa pulisya ang naturang insidente kaya’t personal na pinamunuan ni Barde ang pagresponde at hiningi kaagad ang tulong ng Scene of the Crime Operatives (SOCO) upang masinsinang masiyata ang naturang masaker. Nabatid na may malalalim na sugat sa iba’t ibang bahagi ng katawan ang mga biktima at animo’y hinataw ng matigas na bagay ang kanilang ulo. Nabatid din sa paunang pagsisiyasat na may nawawalang P40,000 cash at mahahalagang kagamitan sa naturang apartment. Hanggang sa sandaling sinusulat ang balitang ito, patuloy a ring isinasagawa ang pagsisiyasat ng pulisya para sa agarang ikadarakip ng mga salarin.|

Like us: Follow us: www.facebook .com/ @Balikasonline Balikas a high security printing faciNew e-Passports to be lity to enable the company to produced by APO will be fully achieve its mandate to compliant with government provide accountable forms procurement policies and and high security printing standards set by internaservices for the national tional organizations like government and its agencies. ICAO. |

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Comelec opens voters registration at malls THE Commission on Election recently signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with Waltermart Community Malls to set up satellite voters’ registration and biometrics validation services in their malls. With this, qualified voters may now register at the country’s first and leading community malls, and have their biometrics captured to vote in time for the May 2016 national elections. In support of Comelec’s “No Bio, No Boto” campaign, Comelec Chairman Andres Bautista said the poll body decided to bring this service to malls to help some voters who find it “difficult or inconvenient” to register in their local Comelec offices. Waltermart is a good choice as its malls are highly accessible and are conveniently located within communities. “Waltermart community malls started toward specific communities which are not actually being served by the larger malls. So if you look at the places that are being served,

these are unique places, and that’s what we are very thankful that Waltermart is supporting us as well,” Bautista said. Meanwhile, Waltermart General Manager for Operations, Jeck Buñing said that the campaign is aligned with Waltermart’s vision and mission in uplifting lives of the communities it serves. And by holding the voters registration in their malls, they can assure them of convenience, safety and security. The voters’ registration and biometrics validation are available during mall hours in 11 Waltermart malls with the following dates: Waltermart Sta Rosa- July 3 & 4, Waltermart Makiling- July 15, Waltermart Tanauan & Waltermart Calamba- July 17, Waltermart San Fernando- July 17-18, Waltermart Guiguinto, Waltermart Sucat and Waltermart General Trias- July 25, Waltermart Sta. Maria - July 31, Walter-mart Plaridel and Waltermart Gapan- July 31- August 1. |

Be a part in shaping public opinion. Email your comments/reactions to: balikasonline@yahoo.com JULY 27 - AUG. 2, 2015

OPINION

IT all started with our first parents. After being created in the divine image and likeness, and endowed with the best of things, they eventually disobeyed God’s law and strayed. It’s a sad fact of life that continues to take place even up to now. We seem to get easily spoiled by whatever goodness, blessing or privilege is given to us. We need to be more prepared to cope with this proneness, cultivating the relevant attitude, skills, and virtues. The basic problem we have is that we tend to forget God and fail to thank Him for whatever good we have and enjoy in life. As a result, we tend to make our own world, creating a bubble of life that sooner or later will just burst to nothingness. L e t ’ s remember that all goodness comes from Him even if it’s also true that that goodness could also be a result of our own efforts. Nothing actually is truly good unless it somehow comes from God. Our sense of gratitude is what keeps us always in touch with our Creator and the indispensable maintainer of our existence and source of whatever good we enjoy in life. We should do everything to sharpen that sense as we go along. It’s what reminds us of the basic relationship we have with hhm whom we tend to forget or take for granted. Our greatest passion should be to be thankful to God always. If there’s some passion we have that is greater than this, then we can be sure that we would be treading on a dangerous path in life. Let’s always remember what Christ told us about what God’s greatest commandment is for us. We should “love God with all our might and strength.” That love has to involve our whole being, not only our spiritual and intellectual part, but also and all the way to our feelings, emotions, and passions. And that’s simply because if our strongest passion is not love for God expressed in part by always being thankful to him, then it would be something else. And most likely, it would be something that is not proper to us, but rather one that may offer us some human good that will eventually separate us from God. This is what is happening these days with all the advantages and privileges afforded us by the new technologies. They offer us a lot of good, but if not related to God, they can become a competitor of God. They can become our god. And the most subtle of this danger is when it is done in the field of religion itself. During the time of Christ, this was a rampant problem. The leading men got so stuck with their own religious laws and practices that they failed to recognize the God who became man. They were so convinced with the goodness of their laws and practices that they absolutized them, and made them their god, instead of God who became man. Nowadays, we see a lot of self-righteous people who have their own version of what is true, good, and beautiful, without referring it to the One who is all true, good and beautiful. They are now redefining things and building their own tower of Babel. We should try our best to always keep God the center and focus of our life. We need to remind ourselves of this fundamental truth because like toddlers who can go on with their childish ways unmindful of the people around, we, too, can go on with our many temporal affairs and concerns unmindful of God. We should never forget that we cannot outgrow our dependence on God, and that the more mature and more accomplished we become, the more dependent we ought to be on God. We need to remind ourselves of this truth constantly, making many deliberate acts of faith and thanksgiving during the day. That’s why there is always a need also to cultivate the sense of spiritual childhood, that awareness that in the eyes of God we will always be children in need of His help and guidance. Even if we are totally free and responsible for our life and actions, such freedom is no excuse for declaring independence from God who is the author, law and pattern, as well as goal of our freedom. We need to educate ourselves to make many acts of thanksgiving all throughout the day, and feel in our flesh our complete dependence on God. Let’s not be ingrates who arrogate to ourselves what actually belongs to God.

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Beware of our ingratitude

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The present context of the separation of the Church and the State

THE Archdiocese of Lipa continues to live its mission of proclaiming the message of salvation in spite of the current social and political situations. Its advocacies reflect its fidelity to the teaching of the Roman Catholic Church. The archdiocese showed its solidarity with the people of Batangas in their opposition against mining in Lobo, Batangas and the putting up of coal-fired power plant in Batangas City. And just recently, it led the Solidarity March against Same-Sex Union to reiterate the teachings on marriage and family of the Catholic Church. Led by Archbishop Ramon C. Arguelles, D.D., the Archdiocese of Lipa is in the forefront of the struggle against social and political maladies confronting the country. He has been in the news because of his opposition against the PCOS. His criticisms against the corruption and moral bankruptcy of the ruling regime are of public knowledge. And he is one of the few Philippine bishops that do not let up the fight against the RH Law even when the Supreme Court has already struck down many of its significant provisions. Many people, especially politicians, consider Abp. Arguelles’ advocacies as interference in matters which are beyond religious spheres. They argue that religion should concerns itself only with the private aspect of a person’s life. Religious sects and institutions should not meddle with politics as the State is strictly prohibited from interfering with their affairs. Indeed, there is such a thing as separation of the church and the state in the 1987 Constitution. Usually misunderstood, the principle of the separation of the church and the state does not prevent the active participation of religious sects in secular matters which have political complexion. The constitutional separation of the Church and the State concerns itself with the basic aspects of religious freedom: first, the free exercise of religion and second, the prohibition on the State from

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establishing a religion. The 1987 Constitution guarantees the free exercise and enjoyment of religious profession and worship without discrimination or preference. Also, it prohibits the State from establishing or favoring a particular religion. While the Constitution prohibits the interference of the State to any religion, it does not prevent religious believers from participating in any activity or engaging in activities that have political dimension. On the contrary, the fundamental law recognizes the role of religious sects in promoting freedom and democracy. As Filipino citizens, members of religious sects have the right to participate in matters related to governance by carrying out their duties and obligations to respect, love, and protect the Motherland. The fact that they are speaking from the pulpit does not put a bar in their role as pastors and citizens of the country. The principle of the separation of the church and the state has become irrelevant in the face of the need for the different religious sects to articulate the concerns of their members. No religious sect is immune from the effects of the present social and political conditions. Today, more religious sects are coming forward in public to ventilate issues affecting them such such religious persecution, destruction of the environment, and social inequities. In promoting the protection of the environment, the cleansing of the electoral process, the promotion of life, and the dismantling of a corrupt political regime, the Archbishop of Lipa is only fulfilling his duty as pastor and citizen. He is only showing what every concerned citizen must be doing for his or her family and country. In fact, his motivations in the causes he is advancing cannot be different from that of any public official who is working for an equitable and prosperous society. He is just living what he is preaching. This should not be difficult to understand.|

Joenald Medina Rayos

Nicetas E. Escalona

Publisher / Editor-in-Chief

Lifestyle Editor

Jerick M. Dorado Copy Editor Melinda R. Landicho |Minerva Padua Sarah Joy Hernandez News Reporters Gerry M. Zamudio | Atty. Jesus Dureza Atty. Jose Sison | Atty. Ramel C. Muria Benjie Oliveros Columnists Janlei Benedict G. Rayos | Cartoonist

Atty. Roberto Iñigo Sanchez Legal Consultant Jack L. Aquino | Jessie delos Reyes Jerome Jay C. Sapinoso Contributors Ronalina B. Lontoc Special Project Editor

Benjie De Castro Circulation In-Charge

Ang pangalang “BALIKAS” ay hango sa mga salitang ‘balik’ at ‘kalikasan’. Hangad ng pahayagang ito na maging kasangkapan sa paghahatid ng mahahalagang impormasyon upang maibalik ang dating anyo ng ating inang kalikasan.|

JULY 27 - AUG. 2, 2015

OPINION balikasonline@yahoo.com

Is the media campaigning for candidates in 2016?

THERE has been so much preoccupation among the media about the candidates for the presidency and President Aquino’s endorsement. In fact, the people are being bombarded by inordinate amounts of news or rather speculations being packaged as news about who is running and who would most likely get the endorsement of President Aquino. It’s as if the media conglomerates have a stake on who would run and win the presidency. A popular daily broadsheet even had as its banner headline that Sen. Grace Poe would be running for president in the 2016 elections. In a less prominently placed article, it reported that Sen. Poe is still undecided. So it appears that the daily merely quoted a politician when it claimed that Sen. Poe is definitely running for the presidency and yet placed the statement from Sen. Poe herself not at the headline but in another article. So what does one make of that? Also, articles about the meetings between President Aquino and Sen. Poe are bombarding followers of what is being categorized as news. If one reads through the article, the conclusion is always that President Aquino has still to make up his mind and that no definitive agreement has been reached. Then there are articles about one senator or government official hinting that President Aquino might endorse Sen. Poe and another saying that the endorsement would definitely go Local Government Sec. Mar Roxas’s way. Well, the article about Sen. Serge Osmeña’s assertion that the endorsement of a president does not and did not anyway affect how the people would vote should already stop all these speculations, packaged as news, about who President Aquino would endorse. Sen. Osmeña compared the ratings of Fidel V. Ramos before and after he was endorsed by the late president Cory Aquino and arrived at the conclusion that the former, even if he won the presidency – which was hotly contested by now Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago who even filed an electoral protest – still got the same votes that were indicated in his ratings before the endorsement. More

glaring examples are the endorsement of President Ramos on then House Speaker Jose de Venecia, and the endorsement of Pres. Gloria MacapagalArroyo on former defense secretary Gilbert Teodoro. One thing Sen. Osmeña failed to explain is the why. He merely attributed it to the general behavior of Filipino voters, citing also the tendency for split votes for the presidency and the vice presidency. Well, actually the reason is more likely that the people’s conditions have always worsened after each presidential term. During the Cory Aquino administration, government infrastructures and services had deteriorated, power outages occurred with regularity and prices spiked, even the price of the poor man’s fish galunggong – which she used as example during her campaign against Marcos – went up to a point that the poor could no longer afford it. Near the end of the Ramos administration, the Southeast Asian financial crisis struck in 1997, which burst the bubble of economic progress that Ramos projected; and the staggering unemployment and underemployment rates and the crisis of governance affected the Filipino people during the Arroyo administration. So instead of reporting all these speculations and devoting too much space on every Tom, Dick and Harry who would declare his or her intention to run for president, why can’t the media report more about the issues confronting the Filipino people such as poverty and hunger, unemployment and underemployment, landlessness, the mismanagement of the MRT/LRT and the traffic, floods, impunity, environmental degradation, among others, and what the government has been and has not been doing about it and the other probable solutions being ignored by it. These are the real issues of public interest. These are the realities that media should be reporting. As for the candidates for the presidency and vice presidency, let us wait for the aspirants to file their certificates of candidacy and report what their positions on the different issues are.|

Benjie Oliveros

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The true Israelite, the true believer 

REV. EUTIQUIO B. BELIZAR, JR., STHD By the roadside

IF someone hands you a one-thousand-peso bill as a cash gift you would probably react initially with jubilation. Suppose that someone is a stranger, would your jubilation not be coupled with caution? You bet, you would say. That is simply because the bill could be fake. So your first concern would be: Is this one-k bill genuine or fake? In the same fashion, if you had been living as a member of the community of God’s People, would you not also be concerned about whether or not you are a true of a false member? In this text the prophet Jeremiah tries to tell us how to identify the true Israelite, that is, the genuine member of the God’s People as opposed to a fake one. The authentic Israelite trusts in the Lord God and not in creatures (humans or things of earth). Verses 5 to 7 illustrates this truth by means of a curse and a blessing. The curse is handed to the person whose trust is in “human beings” or any “mortal” for his life. He is compared to a “bunch of thistles in dry land, or parched desert places, or a sand land where no one lives or finds happiness” (v. 6). I know, for a fact, that there are a number of people who will never ever give any importance to a priest calling or inviting them to Church but who, by a word of a politician or a boss, will come to him/her faster than the speed of a tricycle. Another illustration: God in Gen 2:22-24 created woman out of man’s rib and gave her to him in a union later to be called marriage, thus “a man must leave his father and mother and cling to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh” (Gen 2:24). Let’s note well that nowhere in Genesis does it say that a man must cling to his husband or that a woman must cling to her wife. But in our time there is an increasing pressure to rely on words of human beings insisting that same-sex unions are also marriages. Whose words are they relying on? Whose words are under a curse? But there is also a blessing being given to one who relies on the Lord God and whose confidence is in the Almighty (v. 7). He is being compared to a tree planted “near water that thrusts its roots towards the stream” (v. 8). In other words, the genuine Israelite or believer precisely trusts in the Lord, not in creatures (human beings or earthly objects), and is proven wise because the Lord God gives life and rest. The authentic Israelite enjoys freedom from fear

because of faith. If gold is tested by fire, so is faith tested by events or realities that invite fear. For instance, when a super typhoon comes, there is no denying the fear we feel but our fears become determination when faith constantly makes us express confidence in God who can make something out of nothing, life out of death, and restoration out of disaster. Jeremiah insists that the genuine Israelite “has no fear when the heat comes, his leaves are always green: the year of drought is no problem and he can always bear fruit” (v. 8). Faith, in a word, is an excellent companion in this age of global warming, not really because it solves the problem but because it provides the real light behind the quest for solutions. The authentic Israelite guards over his/her heart in deference to the Lord. In anticipation of Jesus’ teaching of the “heart” being the source of good or evil in a human person (Mt 15:8; Mk 7:21), Jeremiah the prophet points out how “deceitful the heart is” (v. 9). A man might profess an undying love to his wife and yet his words could be hiding another woman (or man!) in his heart. But if anyone can fool fellow humans with bold words declaring one thing or another, no human being can deceive the Lord God or escape from His prying and all-knowing eyes. In fact, through Jeremiah He says: “I, the Lord, search the heart and probe the mind. I give to each one as his ways and deeds deserve” (v. 10). This helps us understand why, for instance, we have the examination of conscience in the Catholic tradition: We allow the Lord to probe our hearts, so we could confront our sinfulness and take the path of repentance and renewal. The genuine Israelite does not pile up riches unjustly. Our country’s perennial problem is corruption. Billions of money are lost every year to unconscionable politicians, businessmen and their co-conspirators who find ways and means to steal them in the guise of legitimate businesses or non-government entities. Jeremiah reminds us: “Like a partridge hatching eggs it did not lay on is the person who piles up riches unjustly. When his life is half over, his wealth deserts him, and in the end he is nothing but a fool” (v. 11). The prophet would have sympathized and, in all likelihood, joined those who are waging a t-shirt campaign with the slogan “HUWAG MAGNAKAW” or “DO NOT STEAL”. The genuine Israelite clings to the Lord, “the fountain of living water”. Jeremiah the prophet

The 111th CBCP Plenary Statements on Social Issues 

ATTY. AURORA A. SANTIAGO Duc in Altum

THE Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) held its midyear plenary assembly this July. Not only the Catholics, but the whole nation, always look forward to the CBCP statement on social issues which affect the country, since such statements have been discussed, deliberated on, and carefully prepared by the bishops before the same is issued. This July, the CBCP issued not only one but three statements on current issues. First, the CBCP Statement on the Peace Process in Mindanao and the Bansangmoro Basic Law (BBL). The Bishops stated that they “do not intend to endorse or not to endorse any draft BBL being discussed by the Philippine Senate and the House of Representatives; but they intend to envision a BBL that is based on and guided by social moral principles.” The bishops noted that: “(1) Christianity and Islam are religions of peace; (2) The vast majority of Muslim, Christian, and Indigenous People (IPs) communities in Mindanao aspire for peace; and (3) All-out war is not the answer to the Mindanao situation.” The bishops noted that since colonial times, the Muslim leaders expressed three major grievances: the reduction of their ancestral territory, the erosion of their cultural identity, and the loss of self-determination in the development of their communities. The bishops further stated that the basis of the deep fundamental Bangsamoro aspiration to self-determination in an autonomous region is the moral principle of social justice. Social justice implies the other moral principles of just peace and inter-religious harmony. “The moral imperative to lasting peace is this: Christians, Muslims, Lumads and members of other faiths have to begin trusting in one another. Continuing mistrust is the road to continuing violence and unrest in Mindanao. Trust is a moral pre-requisite for justice, harmony and peace.” The bishops emphasized that like everyone else they want just and lasting peace. They want a BBL “that is rooted in social justice and promotes social justice; addresses the injustices suffered by the Bangsamoro as well as the injustices suffered by IPs and various religious minorities within the proposed Bangsamoro area; concretely achieves the self-determination of the Bangsamoro in an identified area that remains part and parcel of the territorial integrity and under the national sovereignty of the Philippine Republic; promotes harmonious relationships between peoples of various ethnic groups and of different faiths; effectively protects universal human rights, particularly the rights of IPs already enshrined in law, and the rights of Christian minorities who fear harassment and further marginalization; responds concretely to the concerns, hopes and aspirations of all stakeholders, of various Bangsamoro groups, and of non-Moro citizens within the new Bangsamoro autonomous region; the provisions are clearly Constitutional, without betraying the intent and spirit of peace agreements. The BBL being envisioned is the one based on social moral principles of social justice, harmony and peace. It is a vision that goes beyond the proposals now being discussed in the our legislature.” *** Second, the CBCP Pastoral Letter on Drug Trafficking and Drug Addiction. The bishops maintained that “drugs feed the evil in a person and present an alternate reality that further isolates him from life. Those who manufacture and peddle drugs destroy persons and communities, in a much worst way than natural calamities.” The bishops stated that the situation of Mary Jane Veloso showed “the existence of people running cartels and syndicates that recruit the young and prey on the innocent to carry out their crimes and elemental human rights to determine. The transporters of their prohibited substances are called ‘mules’, an insult both to the beast who helps human beings in carrying their burdens, and to the humans who are reduced to a beastly, deadly, and criminal task.” The bishops call on the police and law-enforcement agencies to prevent the trafficking of drugs; to apprehend those involved in the trafficking of drugs; to dismantle syndicates and cartels involved in the drug trade, and to make sure that the drugs they seize are not recycled and brought back into the underground market. The bishops call for the relentless prosecution of those responsible for trafficking in drugs and for those who traffic persons to be their drug mules. The community of the faithful should stand as one and be united in fighting this destructive menace and social evil. “We must be firm in our resolve to eliminate it in our communities so that our young can live towards a healthy, productive, and vibrant future, and our adults not be sidetracked in their quest for fullness of life.” Third, the Pastoral Letter on the Transition Years of the K to 12 Program. The bishops mentioned three principles that can guide the faithful to shape attitudes open to the transition phase of the K to 12 program. First, the family is the “first school” of the young. The parents are the first educators, first catechists of their children; the home is the first school.” The bishops appeal to parents to get to know the K to 12 program thoroughly and the school and education officials must be ready and capable to discuss it with parents and students. Second, the Church has a preferential love for the poor. The bishops said that “the K to 12 program provides skills and competencies for the

>>>OPINION....turn to P/6 experiences so much rejection and suffering because of his obedience and devotion to proclaiming the word of the Lord God, regardless of people’s favorable or unfavorable reaction. He does not give too much importance to himself, as he just bears people’s harsh words with courage. However, when it is the Lord who is being rejected, he reacts by uttering a strong warning: “Lord God, hope of Israel, all who forsake

you will be put to shame and those who turn from you will be cast out from your land, because they have rejected the Lord God, the fountain of living water” (v. 13). Mincing no words, he asserts that what makes any member of God’s People authentic is constant recourse to the Lord or be forever thirsting. For Jeremiah only the Lord provides “living water”, something only a true Israelite appreciates.

Increase the potential of your business! Advertise with us. Email us at: balikasonline@yahoo.com JULY 27 - AUG. 2, 2015

BUSINESS

BeamAndGo.com teams up with I-Remit to offer direct grocery remittances Startup Fintechoffers convenient way for OFWs to manage their family’s expenses AUCTION REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES REGIONAL TRIAL COURT OF BATANGAS FOURTH JUDICIAL REGION OFFICE OF THE EX-OFFICIO SHERIFF LIPA CITY NOTICE OF EXTRA-JUDICIAL FORECLOSURE OF REAL PROPERTY UNDER ACT 3135, AS AMENDED EJF NO. 2015-0068 Upon extra-judicial petition for sale under Act 3135, as ameded by Act 4118 filed by HOME DEVELOPMENT MUTUAL FUND (Pag-Ibig Fund), mortgagee, with postal address at High Rise Business Center, National Highway, Brgy. Halang, Calamba City, Laguna against SPOUSES JESSIEBEL G. CARIÑO AND JADE V. CARIÑO, Mortgagor/s with postal address at c/o NORONIAH G. BENITO, Blk 11, Lot 29, Monte Claro Homes, P. Laygo Street, Sabang, Lipa City to satisfy the mortgage indebtedness which as of JULY 1, 2015 amounts to Php 760,726.56 including/ excluding interest and other charges agreed thereon and other expenses in connection with this sale, secured by the mortgagee, the undersigned Deputy Sheriff IV of the Regional Trial Court, Branch 85, Lipa City, will sell at public on AUGUST 18, 2015, at 10:00 o’clock in the morning or soon thereafter at the main entrance of the Hall of Justice, Maraouy, Lipa City, to the highest bidder for CASH ad in Philippine Currency, the described real property/ ies and its improvements thereon, to wit: TRANSFER CERTIFICATE OF TITLE NO. T-176371

MANILA – BeamAndGo Pte Ltd, an alternative remittance service that guards against misspent funds through digital gift certificates, has forged a partnership with IRemit to offer over-thecounter payment services for OFWs to provide for their

families’ grocery shopping in the Philippines. BeamAndGo CEO, Jonathan E. Chua said, “We understand that many of IRemit’s customers have apportioned a specific budget from their remittances to their families’ monthly grocery

AUCTION REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES REGIONAL TRIAL COURT OF BATANGAS FOURTH JUDICIAL REGION OFFICE OF THE EX-OFFICIO SHERIFF LIPA CITY NOTICE OF EXTRA-JUDICIAL FORECLOSURE OF REAL PROPERTY UNDER ACT 3135, AS AMENDED EJF NO. 2015-0063 Upon extra-judicial petition for sale under Act 3135, as ameded by Act 4118 filed by MAKILING RURAL BANK, INC., mortgagee, with postal address at GaTE 1 ytmi Realty SEZ, Makiling, Calamba City against JAYSON N. BOLADO AS ATTY.IN-FACT OF ESTELITA R. MATIBAG, Mortgagor/s with postal address at No. 577 San Lorenzo Village, San Sebastian, Lipa City and Dita, Cuenca, Batangas respectively, to satisfy the mortgage indebtedness which as of NOVEMBER 10, 20145 amounts to Php 3,000,000.00 including/ excluding interest and other charges agreed thereon and other expenses in connection with this sale, secured by the mortgagee, the undersigned Deputy Sheriff IV of the Regional Trial Court, Branch 85, Lipa City, will sell at public on SEPTEMBER 23, 2015 at 10:00 o’clock in the morning or soon thereafter at the main entrance of the Hall of Justice, Maraouy, Lipa City, to the highest bidder for CASH ad in Philippine Currency, the described real property/ies and its improvements thereon, to wit:

“A parcel of Land (Lot 29 Block 11 of the consolidation-subdivision plan, Pcs-04-021819, being a portion of the consolidation of Lots 17458A to 17456-E-1-D-2-G, Psd-179371, L.R.C. Record No. ___), situated in the Barangay of Sabang, Lipa City. Bounded on the NE., along line 1-2 by Lot 30; on the SE., along line 2-3 by Lot 27, both of Blk. 11; on the SW., along line 3-4 by Road Lot 6, (10.00 m. wide); on the NW., along line 4-1 by Lot 31, Blk. 11, all of the consolidation-subd., plan x x x x containing an area of SIXTY (60) SQUARE METERS.”

“A parcel of land situated at Cuenca, Batangas; Lot 6431, Cad-610, C-16, Cuenca Cadastre. Bounded on the S., along line 1-2 by Lot 6429; on the W., along line 2-3 by Lot 6427; along line 3-4-5-6 by Lot 6432; on the NW., along line 6-7 by Lot 6438; along line 7-8 by Lot 6440; on the N., along line 11-1 by Lot 6430 all of Cad610 x x x x containing an area of TWO THOUSAND FOUR EIGHTY NINE (2,489) SQUARE METERS.”

Prospective buyers and bidders are hereb enjoined to investigate for themselves the title herein above described and the encumberances thereon if any there be.

“All sealed bids must be submitted to the undersigned on the above stated time and place.”

In the event the public auction should not take place on said date, it shall be held on August 25, 2015 same place and time without any further notice and republication.

In the event the public auction should not take place on said date, it shall be held on SEPTEMBER 29, 2015 same place and time without any further notice and republication.

ORIGINAL CERTIFICATE OF TITLE NO. P-15127

Lipa City, July 16, 2015.

Award of Publication hereof in the “PAHAYAGANG BALIKAS” drawn by raffle in accordance with law.

(Sgd.) EUSTAQUIO N. ALONGALAY Deputy Sheriff IV DULY RAFFLED: HON. NOEL M. LINDOG Executive Judge AURORA B. MANGUBAT OIC-Clerk of Court & Ex-Officio Sheriff

WARNING: It is absolutely prohibited to remove, deface or destroy this notice on or before the date of sale. UNDER PENALTY OF LAW

Pahayagang BALIKAS | July 27, Aug. 3 & 10, 2015

spending. Instead of sending cash, OFWs can now purchase our convenient digital gift certificates which can be redeemed by their loved ones at our participating supermarkets.” The insight on the behavior of I-Remit customers is further supported by a Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) study on OFWs which revealed that 82% of overseas remittances are allocated for their families’ basic needs such as food, supplies, medicine, healthcare, and utilities. The partnership with IRemit, which owns 12% of OFW remittance market, will expand BeamAndGo’s distribution network to over 1,400 payment centers. At present, BeamAndGo actively promotes its digital gift certificates in 9 markets: Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia, UK, UAE, Japan, Australia, Taiwan and the Philippines. I-Remit Chairman and CEO, BansanChoa, said: “We are committed to serving Filipinos everywhere in the world through our modern and efficient remittance facilities. We are excited to partner with BeamAndGo to offer their innovative digital gift certificate platform to our customers who want to assure their remittances will be channeled specifically to grocery spending.” Jonathan E. Chua added, “Both firms strive to be an

instrument of positive change for OFWs and their families. And together, we can provide a more comprehensive remittance service that addresses the issue of fragmentation and leakage. Our services complement each other and I’m looking forward to a long and positive relationship.” I-Remit customers can now purchase BeamAndGo digital gift certificatesin 3 simple steps: First, they indicate the amount they wish to send, select the supermarket, and complete the form with the recipient’s information. Recipients in the Philippines will receive an SMS bearing a redemption code within a few minutes. With this code, the recipient proceeds to the selected supermarket and presents the code during checkout to redeem. With partnerships with payment centers such as IRemit, the Filipino remittance startup expectsits customer base to grow from 70,000 to 300,000 and revenues to hit $1.5 million by December 31, 2016. To celebrate the partnership with BeamAndGo, IRemit customers will receive a discount of Php50 for every Php1000 worth of digital gift certificates bought from August 1 to October 31, 2015. For more information about BeamAndGo and its services, visit its website at https://www.BeamAndGo. com.

.............................................................................. <<<OPINION... from P/5

The 111th CBCP Plenary Statements on Social Issues poor who may not have access to college education. Through the senior high school program, the K to 12 graduate at age 18 can enter the work force. This is a big help to the poor. There will be many students who will drop out of the whole program. Catholic schools must always have a place for them, not merely as out-reach, but as part of their education ministry, and members of their learning community.” Third, the principle of solidarity and subsidiarity must be observed. The bishops declared that in the Church, there is no competition, only communion. They plead with government agencies tasked to implement the K-12, to do everything to ensure that all members of the schools are not displaced or unemployed. The schools in a given territory or region must discuss the years of “no enrollment” in college and see how best to cope with this reality. The K-12 program should not lead to the

teachers and school personnel losing tenure in their employment. Adjustments will have to be made by all, but no one should be made to unjustly suffer in the implementation of the program. In line with the principle of subsidiarity, the personnel affected by the transition should be consulted and their views and suggestions be given serious consideration. May this not lead to the contractualization of the teaching personnel. Our bishops also issued Oratio Imperata in times of grave danger particularly the controversy over the West Philippine City. *** We would like to greet Fr. Ronaldo Pedroso and Fr. Luis Zapata, IVE of the Diocese of Kalookan a very Happy Birthday. Happy 21st Sacerdotal Anniversary to Fr. Mariano Bartolome, Jr., who will be installed as the new parish priest of San Jose de Navotas on July 25.

JULY 27 - AUG. 2, 2015

7 BSU-CAF, Lobo MAO, to establish pilot turmeric farms LIFETIMES balikasonline@yahoo.com

by Claudine Faye AgnoCaceres

TO further increase the interest of the trainees in turmeric production, Ginga Factory through Ms. Lota Manalo, highlighted the monetary benefits or contribution to their income plus the sure market of their produced.| CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

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Tanaueño kid wins HK Match Challenge THE Philippines bagged silver and bronze medals in the 18th Po Leung Kuk Primary World Mathematics Contest (PLKPWMC) held in Hong Kong, July 12 – 16, 2015. This year, bringing home two silver medals were Albriz Moore Bagsic of Lilyrose School in Tanauan City and Naomi Anne King of St. Jude Catholic School. The Philippines also yielded six bronze medals courtesy of Dominic Lawrence Bermudez of Notre Dame of Greater Manila, Sted Micah Cheng of Hope Christian High School, Aiman Andrei Kue of Zamboanga Chong Hua High School, Maria Monica Man-

lises of St. Stephen’s High School, Annika Angela Mei Tamayo of Ateneo de IloiloSta. Maria Catholic School and Gregory Charles Tiong of St. Jude Catholic School. Joining the Philippine team in the PLKPWMC were Al Patrick Castro of Pasig Catholic College, Vanessa Ryanne Julio of St. Jude Catholic School, Justin Teng Soon Khoo of Learning Circle, Hiraya Marcos of Philippine Cultural College-Manila, John Angelo Oringo of Guinobatan West Central School, Erika Emmanuelle Pantaleon of Small World Christian School Foundation, Jan Cedrick Quintin of Mothergoose Special School System and

TO provide an additional income to Lobo farmers, Batangas State UniversityCollege of Agriculture and Forestry (BSU-CAF) Extension Service Office in partnership with the Lobo Municipal Agriculture Office (LoboMAO) will establish a pilot turmeric (luyang dilaw) plantation starting July this year. The establishment of the turmeric farm will also serve as the University’s response to the needs and demand of the local market. BSU-CAF will help the local farmers run the

turmeric planting for a year. After due time, MAO will take over to sustain the said project while a BatStateU-CAF farm specialist will still continue to assist in the said plantation. The said project was organized after BSU-CAF, MAO and Ginga Agricultural Product Factory, the definite buyer of the gingers to be harvested from the plantation, talked on a meeting on June 16 and 18. Moreover, as part of the project, BSU-CAF and MAO conducted a training and seminar on production and

TURMERIC is a rhizomatous herbaceous perennial plant of the ginger family, Zingiberaceae.|

.............................................................................. Allyana Coleen Reyes of Falcon School. A total of 160 primary school students from 15 countries and territories joined the PLKPWMC. They were from the United States, Australia, Bulgaria, South Africa, Singapore, China, Hong Kong, India, Taiwan, Thailand, Indonesia, Mongolia, Macau, Malaysia and the Philippines.

The Po Leung Kuk Primary Mathematics World Contest is organized by Po Leung Kuk and co-organized by the Hong Kong Institute of Education. The contest aims to enhance the primary school students’ interest in mathematics, and to provide a cultural and academic exchange opportunity for the students.|

PA L A IS IPA N 1

PINOY Kids who compete at HongKong Math Challenge.|

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<<<FEST... from P/8

What’s your life’s masterpiece? Everyone went home with a renewed vision about themselves and geared up in creating their very own masterpieces that will bless the world. “I think it’s about time that we reclaim our greatness as a country. Not by solving it through endless rants and complaints, not through world-changing means, but by looking deep within our hearts and finding out why each of us is here and what we ought to contribute to others. You were made to create a masterpiece in your lifetime that will serve your country and the world. It’s your responsibility to find it and honor it with your life. I hope this book will compel you to ask, “What will my life be all about? What Masterpiece will I work on and leave behind?” an excerpt from the book What’s Your Life’s Masterpiece? The author sees the world as 1 big puzzle and each one of us is a puzzle piece. We have a designated spot to fill in this world and if we leave without

fulfilling it, the world becomes a lesser place. Our purpose comes from what we love the most, the passion that our Creator placed in our hearts. Once we find it, nurture it, stay true it, it’ll become the very masterpiece that will create miracles in the lives of others. Grab your copy of What’s Your Life’s Masterpiece? in your favorite bookstore! Email the author: planting_dreams@yahoo.com or follow her on IG/twitter marianne_mencias *Other featured personalities in What’s Your Life’s Masterpiece? are Francis Libiran (premiere designer in the country), Jose Mari Chan (multi-awarded singer/ songwriter), Josette Biyo (Intel Excellence Awardee, Planet Biyo was named after her by Massachusetts Institute of Technology) and Michael Carandang (Emmy Awardee, Former Producer America’s Next Top Model). Event Beneficiaries are Gawad Kalinga, Bo Sanchez Ministry, and Hapinoy.|

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PAHALANG 1 Panginginig 6 Dating pelikula ni Maricel 10 Mestisong negro 11 Puna sa sinaing 12 Alikabok 13 Punongkahoy na makikita lang sa Africa 14 Presyo 15 Belo na itinatakip sa mukha ng mga Muslim 17 Anyos 19 Kim ng Ms. Saigon 20 Patay (pabalbal) 22 Magnanakaw 26 Laguna: ikli 28 Habi 29 Pangkating etniko ng mga manobo 33 National Aerosapace Laboratory 34 Katulong sa India 35 Sandok 37 Sapi 38 Mapasubsob dahil sa

bigat ng dinadala 39 Munting palos PABABA 1 Pulang asukal 2 Alipores 3 Porma ng gamot 4 Dating PBA player Co 5 Pampook 6 Komedyanteng kilala bilang “Bitoy” 7 Lagok 8 Biyuleta 9 Supling 10 Kapatid ni Lotlot 16 Itakda: Ingles 18 Sumpong ng matinding pag-ubo 21 Malungkot: Ingles 23 Whose sa tagalog 24 Handugan 25 Bahagi ng bahay 27 Ani 29 Leteng 30 Batis-batisan 32 uri ng laruan 36 Halimbawa: ikli

good agricultural practices (GAP) for turmeric to Lobo farmers, Lobo Municipal Conference Hall, June 23. Topics on theimportance of local turmeric production in the locality, the potential market, turmeric GAP and production guide, postharvest handling, benefit-cost analysis, requirement as farmer beneficiaries and the marketing scheme were discussed in the said training. Twenty interested

farmers from Barangay San Miguel, Banalo, Lagadlarin, Olo-Olo, Tayuman and Jaybanga attended the seminar. The said attendees will also be the initial participants in the said project. BSU-CAF representatives were extensionists Rowena Anyayahan, Mars Panganiban and Eva Lucero. Ginga Factory owner Ms. Lota Manalo, Lobo MAO Officer Rosie Egea and Lobo Mayor Jurly Manalo were also present in the training.|

Leo (Hul. 23-Ago. 22) - Ang bawa’t taong makakausap ay nangangailangan ng paliwanag kaya hinahon at pasensiya ang kailangan. Lucky numbers at color ay 1, 21, 29, 33 at green. Virgo (Ago 23-Set. 23) - Kung ituloy ang paglalakbay, may malaking pakinabang sa sarili o sa trabaho. Iwasan ang mamasyal nang walang mahalagang sadya. Lucky numbers at color ay 6, 12, 27, 38 at yellow. Libra (Set. 24-Okt. 23) - Ang pagtulong ay malinis na hangarin subalit ibigay sa tamang nangangailangan nang maiwasan ang malinlang. Lucky numbers at color ay 5, 12, 33, 40 at aqua blue. Scorpio (Okt. 24-Nob. 22) - Masigla dahil sa dulot ng pag-ibig. Naaayon ang makipag-date o makipagtagpo sa kasintahan. Sa negoyso, matumal. Lucky numbers at color ay 4, 23, 40, 42 at red rose. Sagittarius (Nob. 23-Dis. 21) - Iwasan lumagda ng mahalagang papeles o kontrata na hindi nauunawaan ng mabuti. Lucky numbers at color ay 2, 22, 31, 41 at emerald green. Capricorn (Dis. 22-Ene. 19) - Iwasan ang makulit at mapagbiro dahil iiral ang kasamaan ng iyong ugali na handang makipag-away. Lucky numbers at color ay 16, 19, 25, 33 at white. Aquarius (Ene. 20-Peb. 18) - Sa kabuhayan, magagawa ngayon ang gantimpala. Magiging pangunahin ang kapakanan ng pamilya bago ang sarili. Lucky numbers at color ay 18, 19, 37, 42 at sun yellow. Pisces (Peb. 19-Mar. 20) - Ang sino mang magbenta o humingi ng tulong ay dapat na suriing mabuti bago paunlakan. Magiging masayahin at madaling malapitan ng kahit sino, pero mag-ingat at baka maloko. Lucky numbers at color ay 7, 11, 21, 32 at jade green. Aries (Mar. 21-Abril 19) - Ang maghangad ng kaunlaran ay matatamo kung buo ang loob at kalakip ang sipag, tiyaga at pagkilos. Lucky numbers at color for the day ay 9, 24, 35, 41 at indigo. Taurus (Abril 20-Mayo 20)- Habang may buhay, may pag-asa. Malaki ang pagkakataon na matanggap ang inaasahan. Simulan ang pagbabanat ng buto. Lucky numbers at color ay 15, 19, 28, 33 at jade green. Gemini (Mayo 21-Hun. 21) - Maaaring makakilala ng taong makakatulong sa suliranin tungkol sa trabaho o personal na kailangan. Lucky numbers at color ay 8, 31, 34, 36 at shocking pink.| Cancer (Hun. 22-Hul. 22) - Ang gagawing desisyon ay may bungang pipitasin. Malakas ang ESP kaya kung anuman ang kutob, isagawa. May magandang balitang matatanggap. Lucky numbers at color ay 8, 19, 37, 40 at electric blue.

EXTRA-JUDICIAL SETTLEMENT OF ESTATE WITH WAIVER OF RIGHTS NOTICE is hereby given that the estate of the late RODRIGO J. MORALES who died intestate on February 9, 2015 at Olivares General Hospital, Tagyatay City, consisting of a motorized vehicle particularly identified as NISSAN/P-UP / Frontier / Series of 2011; Engine No.: YD2520121T; Chassis No.: MNCCGS40Z0016359; Plate No. PQD-460; Color: Dark Blue; MV File No.: 1368261307; MVRR No.: 20757321; C.R. No.: 126364335 was extra-judicially settled and and among his heirs with Deed of Absolute Sale per Doc. No. 512; Page No. 904; Book No. 37; Series of 2015 of ATTY. EILEEN MELO-REY, Notary Public. Pahayagang Balikas | July 20, 27 & Aug. 3, 2015

Share with us Special Moments in your LifeTimes! Email your photos and details to balikasonline@yahoo.com JULY 27 - AUG. 2, 2015

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>>>FESTIVALS & FEASTS..., EVENTS..., SHOWBIZ & SPORTS...TRAVEL & TRENDS<<<

Tanauan City, sumipa sa Competitive Index 2015 MASAYANG ibinalita ni Tanauan City mayor Antonio C. Halili sa libu-libong nagsidalo sa pagdiriwang ng ika-151 taong anibersaryo ng kapanganakan ni Gat Apolinario Mabini ang pag-angat ng puwesto ng lunsod sa CMCI 2015, kung saan, mula sa ika-81 puwesto noong 2014, sumipa ito sa ika-38 sa kategoryang “All Cities” at ika-18 naman sa “Component Cities”.| JUN MOJARES

“What’s your life’s masterpiece?”: A book launch for a cause WHAT’S YOUR LIFE’S MASTERPIECE?, a book written by Marianne Madelaine V. Mencias, now a bestseller in Fully Booked Stores nationwide!JIt has also been launched twice in Singapore and Florida, USA. The author held a Book Launch for a Cause last JULY 31, 2014at Unilab Bayanihan Center, JY Campos Hall A. The world-class Filipinos she interviewed in her book were present in the event and they shared timeless success wisdom to the audience: Bo Sanchez (all-time bestselling author) said “education without execution” is why people don’t become successful, Tony Meloto (Founder, Gawad Kalinga) who powerfully moved all of us when he said “let’s show the world that God did not make a mistake when He created us Filipinos”, Marvin Agustin (owns more than 40 restaurants) who said “Bank on your strengths. We were taught to improve our weaknesses all these years when the key was just to build on our strengths”, Francis Flores (International Head of Jollibee) who found passion in promoting a global local brand and shared 5 keys in discovering if you’re doing your purpose, most important is it’s giving honor to God,Mark Ruiz (Co-Founder, Hapinoy and Rags2Riches Social Enterprise) “no amount of walking on the wrong road will bring you to where you want to go” and Jason Magbanua (Multi-awarded wedding videographer) “you don’t have to do something so big, like what I do, I create wedding videos that give people hope when it comes to love”.

>>>FEST....turn to P/7

LUNGSOD NG TANAUAN – Muli na namang nagpamalas ng kahusayan sa pamamalakad ang mga namumuno sa lokal na pamahalaan ng Lunsod ng Tanauan matapos itong pumaimbulog sa ipinalabas na Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Index (CMCI) para sa taong 2015. Sa pinakahuling pagtataya na isinagawa ng National Competitiveness Council (NCC), nakakalap ng kabuuang 35.27 puntos ang Tanauan City, sapat na upang lumundag sa ika38 puwesto, mula sa ika-81 noong 2014, sa kategoryang “All Cities” na sinalihan ng 142 siyudad sa buong bansa. Sumipa rin ito sa ika-18 puwesto para sa kategoryang “Component City” na kinabibilangan naman ng 108 lunsod. Ginamit na panuntunan sa pagbibigay ng puntos ng CMCI ang “Economic Dynamism”, “Government Efficiency” at “Infrastructure” ng mga lunsod.

Sa pangunguna ng Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), itinatag ang CMCI upang mabigyan ang mga investors ng malinaw na batayan kung saang lugar karapat-dapat maglagak ng kanilang pamumuhunan. Gayundin, magkaroon ang mga local chief executives ng matibay at “objective” na datos upang maisulong at mai-angat pa ang antas ng kanilang kakayahang pamamahalaan ang mga nasasakupan. Masayang ibinalita ni Mayor Antonio C. Halili sa libolibong mga taong dumalo sa pagdiriwang ng ika-151 taong anibersaryo ng kapanganakan ni Gat Apolinario Mabini noong Hulyo 23, ang naging resulta ng CMCI, sabay himok sa mga kawani ng lokal na pamahalaan ng Lunsod ng Tanauan, na kagaya niya, huwag ma-kontento sa kung ano man ang mga nagawa na, bagkos ay piliting higitan pa ito sa mga susunod pa.|

July 27 - Aug. 2, 2015 | Vol. 20, No. 30 | balikasonline@yahoo.com | 0912.902.7373

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ARKING the 46th Foundation Day of Batangas City is the 27th Sublian Festival -- a two- week long celebration which culminates every year on the 23rd of July. The festival rooted in the Batangueños devotion to the town’s patron: the Holy Cross in Bauan and Agoncillo, and the Sto. Niño in Batangas City.

This religious devotion translated to a dance indigenous to the Batangueños: the Subli. Traditionaly performed to the accompaniment of drums and chanting, the Subli praises the Patron in a combination of poetry, movement and music. Today, the Sublian Festival features not just devotional dance-song but street dancing, indigenous Filipino games, Harana (serenades), the Lupakan, Awitan at Sayawan: an event which combines the sharing of nilupak (local delicacy made of pounded bananas and cassava) with folk songs and dances. The Sublian Festival is included in the Department of Tourism’s Calendar of Events. The Sublian Festival was started by city Mayor Eduardo Dimacuha on July 23, 1988 on the annual observation of the cityhood of Batangas City. The objective is to renew the practice of the subli. So, what is a subli? A subli is presented during a feast, as ceremonial worship dance in honor to the Holy Cross. The image of the Holy Cross was found during the Spanish rule in the town of Alitagtag. It is the patron saint of ancient town of Bauan. The dance is indigenous to the province of Batangas. government organization, schools and socio-civic orThe subli is made up of lengthy prayers, songs ganization. and dances in predetermined arrangement. The dancParticipants come in native attire with adorned subli ers are made up of one, two or eight couples. The hats to symbolize Batangueño attributes and customs. male dancers shuffle in intense fashion and hit the The best bit of the event is the Foundation Day and ground using a bamboo stick, while the female, dance the Sublian sa Kalye (in the street), where partakers with a sophisticated wrist and finger movement. will march and dance the subli on the streets. There are The parade usually starts in morning on the 23rd around a thousand students who join and perform of July after the floral offering. It is commonly pa- astreet dancing subli. The parade usually takes at least rticipated by the city government employees, non>>>DANCE....to P/SS4

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Tulakasan (Tula para sa Kalikasan)

Sublian Competition ANG “authenticity” ng sayaw ang binigyang puntos ng mga hurado sa nagdaang patimpalak sa pagsayaw ng Subli na bahagi ng taunang festival sa Batangas City. Ayon kay Steve Villaruz, Chairman ng Board of Judges, kasama sa pagiging authentic ng subli ang musika, tunog, awit o chant. Aniya ang chant ay dapat naririnig at malinaw ang bigkas para maintindihan. Nakapaloob rin aniya sa authenticity ang costume ng manunubli, kung saan dapat ito ay may pagkakatulad o hawig sa mga isinuot noong unang panahon. Bukod kay Villaruz na Professor Emeritus sa UP College of Music at Commisioner ng UNESCO, National Commission of the Philippines, pito pang mga kinikilalang tagapagtaguyod ng sining at kultura ang naging hurado ng kumpetisyon. Bago isinagawa ang kumpetisyon, ipinakita muna ng tatlong grupo ng mananayaw mula sa bayan ng Agoncillo, Brgy. Sinala sa bayan ng Bauan, at Brgy. Talumpok sa Lunsod ng Batangas ang mga natatanging istilo ng pagsayaw ng Subli sa mga naturang lugar. Napili nila bilang pinakamahusay na grupo sa elementarya ang Sinala Elementary School, pangalawa ang St. Bridget College at pangatlo

ang Batangas City East Elementary School. Champion ang Siglayaw ng Sta. Teresa College sa High School/Collegiate Level. Pumangalawa ang St. Bridget College at 3rd place ang Indayog ng Sta. Teresa College. Nakuha ng Alangilan Central School ang unang pwesto sa Community Level ng kumpetisyon, pumangalawa ang Sta. Teresa College at pangatlo naman ang Batangas State University. Ang Sublian Festival na nasa ika-28 taon na ay naglalayong maisalin sa mga kabataan ang sayaw na malaking bahagi ng sining at kultura ng mga Batangueno. Bago ipahayag ang mga nanalo tinuruan munang mag-subli ng isang pares ng manunubli ng Sinala sina Ms. Foundation Day 2015, Alyssa Bell Lopez at kanyang konsorte na si Joemari Cantos. Samantala, nagkaroon rin ng panunumpa sa katungkulan ang mga pinuno ng Philippine Folkdance Society (PFS) Metro Batangas Chapter sa pangunguna ng pangulo nito na si Louise Borbon at pangalawang pangulo na si Noel Silang ng Batangas City Cultural Affais Committee. Ang panunumpa ay isinagawa ni Rodel Fronda, National President ng PFS.| MARIE V. LUALHATI AT BRYAN CASADO

TINANGHAL na kampeon sa “Tulakasan” (Tula para sa Kalikasan) ang batang si Thalia Vanna Franceis Israel ng Saint Bridget College mula sa 59 na pribado at pampublikong paaralan sa lunsod nagtagisan ng talino sa Batangas City Convention Center, Hulyo 20. Tumanggap si Israel ng P1,500 cash, medalya at certificate. Nanalo ng ikala-wang pwesto si Raishen Phay Bagon ng Pagkilatan Elementary School (P1,000 at silver medal) habang si Matt Jayrus Evangelista ng Tibig Elementary School ang ikatlo (P 500.00 at bronze medal). Nilahukan ito ng mga kabataang nasa preparatory at kindergarten level. Naging batayan sa pagpili ang linaw at galing sa pagbigkas; malikhaing interpretasyon ng piyesa; at istilo,

galaw at kaalaman sa piyesa. Nagsilbing mga hurado sina City Administrator Phillip Baroja, Chairman ng Mother Earth Foundation Sonia Mendoza, Environmentalists Dr Ma. Victoria Espaldon at Larry Castillo; at Woodrow Francia ng ABS-CBN TV Patrol Southern Tagalog. Binigyang-diin ni Baroja sa kanyang mensahe na ang nabanggit na patimpalak ay naglalayog maagang maipamulat sa mga kabataan ang kahalagahan ng pangangalaga sa kapaligiran at isang paraan din upang mahasa ang angking galing ng mga bata. Ang lupon ng gawain ay pinamahalaan ng City ENRO sa pamumuno ni Mr. Oliver Gonzales.| RONNA ENDAYA CONTRERAS / ELMER ZARASPE

Dulakasan (Dula para sa Kalikasan) ANIM na kalahok buhat sa pribado at pampublikong paaralan sa lunsod ng Batangas ang nagtagisan ng galing noong July 21 sa Batangas City Convention Center. Ang mga nagwagi ay ang mga sumusunod: Champion - BSU High School ang tumanggap ng gold medal, trophy at P25,000.00; 1st runner up - Scola Maria, dating IHMLCSV (silver medal, trophy at P20,000.00); at 2nd runner up - Balete National HS (bronze medal, trophy at P10,000.00). Tumanggap naman ng consolation prizes na P5,000.00 ang San Antonio NHS; Batangas National HS; at Paharang National HS. Tumanggap ng P2,500.00 bawat isa ang mga sumusunod: Best Actor- Jasper Reyes (BSU super

ENRO); Best Actress- Myle Deztin Alara (BSU Rara Basura); Best Director - Ina Celo Evane Gonda (Scola Maria); at Best Script writer Mark Emmanuel Magsino (BSU). Sa temang “Kalikasang Batangueño , Palakat na kay Ganda”, naging batayan sa pagpili ay orihinal na tema 40%, pag-arte, kaliwanagan ng pahayag at presensya 30%, disenyo, uri, epekto ng set, props at costume 20% at dating sa manonood 10%. Naging hurado sina Environmentalists Ms. Sonia Mendoza, Mr. Larry Castillo at Ms. Aileen Lucero; USAID Public Relations Staff Diwata Paredes at City Administrator Felipe M. Baroja.| MONINA B. FERNANDEZ/ELMER ZARASPE

Pakitang Gilas sa Makabagong Sayaw TINANGHAL kampeon ang Ultimate Dance Company (San Pascual, Batangas) Senior Division category sa Pakitang Gilas sa Makabagong Sayaw sa Batangas City Convention Center noong July 19. Sila ay nagkamit ng P 15,000 at trophy. First runner- up ang Ultimate Beat Guys ng San Pascual (P 10,000.00) habang 2nd runner up ang D’Chosen Crew ng Bauan (P 5,000.00). Sa Junior Division category, nagkamit ng unang pwesto ang Indak Feleciano Performing Arts (P15,000.00); 1st runner up ang Bat StateU Cultural Guild (P10,000.00); 2nd runner up ang Sta. Rita National High School Dance Troupe (P5000.00). May tig P2,000 naman na consolation prize sa hindi nagwagi. Lahat ng kalahok ay tumanggap ng trophy. Sa taong ito, hinati sa dalawang kategorya,

Junior Division (12- 16 edad) at Senior Division (17- 21 edad). May tig walong grupo ang naglaban sa Senior at Junior Division mula sa ibat ibang paaralan at community based group sa lungsod ng Batangas at Tanauan at mga bayan ng Lemery, Rosario at Balayan. Naging basehan sa pagpili ng mga nagwagi ang Performance - 50%, Clarity of Message 25% at Difficulty of Dance -25%. Nagsilbing mga hurado sina Katherine Lezama, Katrina Santos-Mercado at Gerald Mercado na mga kilalang pangalan sa industriya ng musika. Pinamahalaan ang gawaing ito ng komitiba na pinamumunuan nina Mr. Noel Silang (PESO) at Ms. Glecy Clet (CCYA) ng Office of the City Mayor.| M. B. FERNANDEZ ELMER ZARASPE

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Patimpalak Sayaw kay Apolinario Mabini MALAKI ang naitutulong ng kulturang Pilipino sa pamumuhay ng tao ang binibigyan-pansin ng pamahalaang lokal ng Batangas sa pamamahala ng Cultural Affairs Committee (CAC) pati na rin ang preser-basyon at pagtataguyod ng katutubong sayaw. May 20 paaralan ang naglaban-laban sa katutubong sayaw noong July 22 sa apat na kategorya: elementary level sa sayaw na Polka sa Nayon, secondary level sa sayaw na Folka Batangueña, tertiary level sa sayaw na Jota Rizal at faculty level sa sayaw na Sayaw Kumintang. Ayon kay Dr. Larry Davao, Professor, Philippine Normal University, laking tuwa niya dahil ang Batangas City ay aktibo sa ganitong mga gawain. Aniya sa pamamagitan nito ay lalo pang maipapalaganap at maipakikilala ang mga sinaunang sining sa mga bagong henerasyon. Ang mga nagwagi ay ang mga sumusunod: Elementary - Polka sa Nayon: Champion -

Alangilan Elem. School; First Place – Batangas State University; Second Place – Marian Learning Center Secondary – Polka Batan-guena: Champion – Casa Del Bambino Emmanuel Montes-sori; First Place – Batangas State University; Second Place – Sta. Teresa Collge Tertiary – Jota Rizal: Champion – Batangas State University; First Place – St. Bridget College; Second Place – Cristo Rey Institute for Career Development Faculty – Sayaw ng Kumin-tang: Champion – Batangas National High School; First Place – Saint Bridget College; Second – Sangay Sayaw (Public Teachers Association) Ang mga nanalo ay tatanggap ng premyong na nagkakahalagang P10,000, P 6,000 at P4,000 plus trophy ayon sa pag kakasunod- sunod. Ang mga naging hurado ay sina Marciano Viri, Josefina Guillen at Dr. Larry Gabao.| LIZA PEREZ DE LOS REYES

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STUDENTS of San Sebastian Elementary School actively participates in the story telling session of the recently concluded National Children’s Book Reading day at SM City Lipa.|

SM Celebrates National Children’s Book Reading Day

MEMBERS of the Sangguniang Panlunsod joined the float parade.|

SM Supermalls, through its SM Cares Program on Youth and Children’s Welfare, recently celebrated the National Children’s Book Reading Day in commemoration of the publication of Jose Rizal’s rendition of “AngPagong at AngMatsing”. At SM City Batangas, grade 2 students ofGulod Elementary School and grade 1 students of Jose C. Pastor Elementary School participated in the book reading session. ABSCBN TV10 Batangas Senior Reporter Ernie Manio and LPU-Batangas High School Teacher Ms. Faye Hosmillo were the book readers of the featured storybooks “Bob the Blob” and “Kaitlin and the Time Machine”. While at SM City Lipa, the Lipa Actors Company shared a role playing way of

storytelling to the students of San Sebastian Elementary School. Aside from story readings, the students also received books from Vibal Publishing and SM Foundation. Together with partners from the Department of Education (DepEd), SM Foundation, the National Book Development Board (NBDB), VibalPublishing, National Bookstore and BDO Foundation, National Children’s Book Reading Day aimed to cultivate and nurture in children, a love for reading and highlight books as a tool that would instill proper values, encourage children to explore, widen their horizons and learn about other cultures in a FUN yet safe environment.|

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July 27 - Aug. 2, 2015 | Vol. 20, No. 30 balikasonline@yahoo.com |  0912.902.7373

F.E.S.T.

Share with us Special Moments in your LifeTimes! Email your photos and details to balikasonline@yahoo.com JULY 27 - AUG. 2, 2015

>>FESTIVALS & FEASTS | EVENTS | SHOWBIZ & SPORTS | TRAVEL & TRENDS<<

Congratulations to all Sublian Festival Winners! Sublian Float Competition 1st - St. Patrick’s Hospital Med. Center 2nd - Citimart Group of Companies 3rd - Malampaya Foundation Inc. (MFI) Patimpalak Sublian Elementary Level 1st - Sinala Elementary School 2nd - Saint Bridget College 3rd - Batangas City East Elem. School High School/Collegiate Level 1st - Siglayaw – Sta Teresa College 2nd - Saint Bridget College 3rd - Indayog – Sta Teresa College Community Level 1st - Alangilan Central 2nd - Sta. Teresa College 3rd - Batangas State University TULAkasan 1st - St. Bridget Colege 2nd - Pagkilatan Elementary School 3rd - Tibig Elementary School. Sayaw- Sigaw Pangkalikasan 1st - Banaba West Elementary School 2nd - BSU Elementary School 3rd - Batangas City South Elem. School Dulakasan 1st - BSU Integrated School 2nd - Scola Maria 3rd - Balete National High School

Patimpalak sa Katutubong Awit Elem. – Dobol Kwartet (Magtipon sa Tahanan ng Diyos) 1st - Saint Bridget College 2nd - Sta Teresa College HS – Dueto Sandaling Pinakahihintay 1st - Saint Bridget College. 2nd - Bats. Prov. HS for Culture and Arts 3rd - Batangas National High School Tertiary – Solo (May Bukas Pa) 1st - Teodoro Luansing College of Rosario 2nd - Sta Teresa College 3rd - Batangas State University Faculty – Dobol Kwartet (Munting Mundo) 1st - Batangas National Highschool 2nd - Saint Bridget College 3rd - Batangas State University Patimpalak sa Katutubong Sayaw Elementary Level – Polka sa Nayon 1st - Alangilan Elementary School 2nd - Batangas State University 3rd - Marian Learning Center Secondary Level – Jota Batangueña 1st - Casa del Bambino Emm. Montessori; 2nd - Batangas State University 3rd - Sta Teresa College Tertiary – Jota Rizal 1st - Batangas State University 2nd - Saint Bridget College 3rd - Cristo Rey Inst. for Career Dev’t. Faculty – Komintang 1st - Batangas National High School 2nd - Saint Bridget College 3rd - Sangay Sayaw Pakitang Gilas sa Makabagong Sayaw Senior Division 1st - Ultimate Dance Company 2nd - Electrifying Beat Guys 3rd - D’Chosen Crew Junior Division 1st - Indak Feleciano Performing Arts 2nd - BSU Cultural Guild 3rd - Sta. Rita National HS Dance Troupe

SUBLIAN PARADE. City Mayor Eduardo B. Dimacuha and wife Vilma joined the Sublian Parade aboard a karwahe.

Alyssa Bell Lopez is Ms. Foundation Day MISS Batangas City Foundation Day 2015 Alyssa Bell Lopez strikes one as a wholesome and well- rounded personality. Alyssa is an 18 year- old lass from Greenwoods Subdivision, Barangay Pallocan East and is the youngest daughter of Engr. Vic Lopez, Jr., an overseas Filipino worker, and Mrs. Rogeleen Rusty Bell-Lopez, a bank manager. She is a family-oriented person who considers herself a daddy’s girl and is close to her siblings Patrick and Alyanna. She enjoys travelling with her family. Her first trip was in the United States when she was only four years old. Other countries that she visited include Hongkong and South Korea. She alsotoured local destinations such as Ilocos, Bohol and Palawan. This pretty lady loves adventure and likes to try things that will greatly excite her. She tested her guts by skydivingand spelunking or exploring caves in Sydney, Australia. As a child, she had fun biking and swimming and took up acting, voice and piano lessons. Her hobbies include watching English true- story and action movies and indulging in food trip with her friends. She also loves listening to Rihanna and Adam Levine of Maroon 5. She makes herself fit by doing boxing and muaythai. Alyssa sees herself working in a travel agency five years from now and also dreams of owning one someday. Her love for travelling made her take up Hotel, Restaurant and Institution Management (HRIM), major in Tourism at De la Salle-College of St. Benilde. She is currently in her third year.She also enhanced herself by taking up Personality Development at John Robert Powers Looking at her spiritual side, Alyssa considers herself as very religious, a value she inherited from her family and from spending her elementary and highschool days in Saint Bridget College (SBC). She emphasizes that she places God at the center of her life. Being a beauty queen runs in the family. Her great grandmother on her father side, Maria DimaanoAbabao, was crowned Mutya ng Rizalinos 1920 and whose daughter, Teresita Ababao-Borbon, became Ms Batangas First Princess 1946 and Mutya ng Rizalinos in 1947. Her grandmother on her mother side was 1957 Ms Batangas, Queen Rogelia Calingasan Bell whose sister Flordeliza Ronquillo-Calingasan–De Mesa reigned as Ms Batangas 2nd Princess in 1955. Alyssa considers herself blessed to be chosen as Ms Batangas City Foundation Day 2015. She is overwhelmed and thanks God for this great opportunity. She also extends her gratitude to the city government for choosing her to hold this prestigious title. Alyssa promises to be a good role model to the Batangueño youth, encouraging them to enhance their God-given talents and to create a new breed of heroes from their generation. She also advices them to exert their best in school and to finish their studies, to believe in themselves, and to be an epitome of beauty not only on the outside but also in the inside. As Ms Batangas City Foundation Day 2015, she simply wants to be remembered as a good influence to the young generation of Batanguenos by leading a good life.An adventurous lady who tries her best to be the best of what she can be.| RONNA ENDAYA CONTRERAS

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<<<DANCE... from P/SS1

27 Sublian Festival marks....

an hour or more to complete.4But in this year’s celebration, it was very noticeable that foreign students of colleges and universities in the city actively participated in the Sublian sa Kalye, turning the festival a mixed-race celebration. In teh afternoon after the Sublian Parade, the Sublian competition took place at the Batangas City Sports Coliseum. Three groups of community danc-

ers --from the town of Agoncillo, from Brgy. Sinala in Bauan town and from Brgy. Talumpok Silangan in Batangas City made an exhibition of the three varieties dance steps peculiar in their respective communities. later on, groups compete in different categories -- elementary, high school-collegiate and community.| With notes from batangasphilippines.com

WINNERS of FLOAT COMPETITION. Champion is Float No. of St. Patrick’s Hospital and Medical Center. Second Prize goes to Citimart group of Companies; while Shell-Malampaya Consortium got the Third Prize. In last year’s competition, the float of Jesus of Nazareth Hospital was Hall of Famer; Westmead International School got the Second Prize, and Shell-Malampaya Consortium got the Third Prize.| BRYAN CASADO | JOENALD RAYOS