Iloilo Metropolitan Times Volume 1 • Issue no 29

ILOILO

the first business newspaper in metro iloilo

metropolitan VOL. I ISSUE NO. 29

developmental news | critical views

times August 18 - 24, 2013

www.iloilometropolitantimes.com

Php 12.00

WHEN IT RAINS, SHOES POUR. Rainy days are being despised by many of us due to the inconvenience and damage that it can cause especially to our feet and shoes. But for this shoe-repair man, pouring days are blessings in disguise because it is during this time that he could be able to bring home enough food for the table to his family. PHOTO BY MARY PAULINE BALMES/IMT

“PUV ban to increase prices of goods”

BY MONTESA GRIÑO-CAOYONAN

Once the banning of the provincial utility vehicles (PUV’s) will be implemented, National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) Region 6 Director Ro-Ann Bacal said she is expecting a slight increase on prices of commodities and goods coming from the provinces.

“I hope it will not but I’m sure there is a slight effect. The city government especially their traffic office should really need to study the traffic management”, she said.

Eventually, Bacal said this is the reason why other cities have their bagsakan centers along with their terminals and markets in

the city which should also be rationalized so that wholesaler vendors may get their sources input directly from the bagsakan centers.

Bacal hopes that the proposed full implementation of the Perimeter Boundary Ordinance (PBO) will be studied well by the city government.

NEDA emphasized the importance of provincial economy in terms of agricultural products, manpower and transportation, among others in boosting the city economic growth.

Bacal said many of agricultural products coming from different provinces in Western Visayas are actually supplying the needs of

the cities while the cities are also supplying their products especially on construction and other materials needed by various municipalities in other provinces.

“There should have an inter-relationship between the city and province governments because of dual exchange. That’s why in planning, we encouraged both of them to sit down together so they could come-up with win-win solutions”, she said.

In Iloilo City, Bacal said the proposed total banning of all the provincial public utility jeepneys from entering the city proper is just a matter of regulation.

“Ideally, the proposed banning is simply

Inclement weather and on-going projects cause power interruptions

BY REYMAR LATOZA

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Traffic not to be blamed to provincial jeepneys – market vendors

BY KHARIZA JOY SOFIA

“Provincial jeepneys are not the cause of traffic in the city”, explained Bonifacio Gascon, president of the Iloilo Terminal Vendors Association (ITVA).

The said answer is to contradict the idea of City Councilor Plaridel Nava, chairman of the Committee on Transportation, to totally ban

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to manage the vehicles because of the limited capacity of the city. If we will allow everybody to enter here, our streets are not efficient even if we have good traffic lights but still all could not be accommodated because of shared numbers of vehicles”, she said.

Bacal added having the terminal is the same strategy being done in some highly urbanized cities like Metro Manila.

The director also said the proposed banning of vehicles is not meant to ban goods from entering the city but it’s just a matter of regulation so they could effectively manage the traffic here.IMT

With booming businesses and growing economy, the importance of electricity in Iloilo City became highly indispensable. Frequent power interruptions experienced in some areas in Iloilo City few days ago caused disturbance in many business establishments, households, and all that depend on electricity.

Engr. Randy Pastolero, Panay Electric Company operations (PECO) chief, said the power interruptions were due to inclement weather and the on- going construction of big projects in Iloilo City.

Pastolero explained that this time is typhoon season and strong winds had caused trees to fall Inclement weather /p5

METRO NEWS

2

August 18 - 24, 2013

Defensor calls for a transport summit

BY MONTESA GRIÑO-CAOYONAN The Iloilo City and provincial governments are both eyeing to conduct a joint transport summit next month before amending the controversial Comprehensive Perimeter Boundary Ordinance (PBO) which will totally ban all provincial jeepneys from entering the city proper.

In a recent meeting at the Iloilo Provincial Capitol, Gov. Arthur Defensor Sr. has suggested Iloilo City Councilor Plaridel Nava to come up with a transport summit to know what exactly causes traffic problems in the city so they could come up with some possible solutions.

Defensor has even offered to share financially on the expenses just to make sure that every concerned group and agency will be consulted during the proposed summit.

The governor also suggested Nava, who chaired the Committee on Traffic, to invite traffic experts from Manila particularly from the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) and Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) to share their expertise on the present problem of the city.

Defensor also advised Nava to secure data of how many private and public vehicles are registered in the city and province.

“You should make necessary report so we could plan out what best solution we could do to minimize the problem. I am willing to share expenses so all will be given an opportunity to express their thoughts especially those affected sectors shall be invited”, the governor told Nava.

Other major sectors to be consulted are students, workers, farmers, traders, business, transportation industry including drivers and operators of jeepneys, vans, buses, and taxis.

Defensor also wanted the city government to take a look on several affected towns in Iloilo which are members of the Metro Iloilo-Guimaras Economic Development Council (MIGEDC).

MIGEDC members are Iloilo City, Guimaras province, and towns of Leganes, Sta. Barbara, Pavia, San Miguel and Oton, all in Iloilo.

On his part, Nava said he will consider the proposed summit after the two committee hearings were set on August 12 and 14 at the penthouse of the new Iloilo City Hall building.

The first-day of hearing was represented by different big transport groups like Iloilo City Alliance of Drivers Association (Icada), Pinagisang Samahan ng mga Tsuper at Operator Nationwide (Piston-Panay) and Iloilo City Alliance of Jeepney Owners and Drivers Association (Icajoda).

He added on the second- day, it was represented by government agencies such as Land Transportation Office (LTO), Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC), National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) and among others.

Meanwhile, records from NEDA-6 revealed that a total of 19, 203 vehicles are registered in Iloilo City and 33, 519 vehicles are registered in the province as of first quarter of this year.

Of the said registered vehicles in Iloilo City, 16,135 vehicles are private, 285 are governmentowned while 2,783 vehicles are for hire.

In Iloilo, 28,401 vehicles are private, 379 government-owned while 4,739 vehicles are for hire.

The present record is higher than the same period last year with 18, 190 vehicles registered in the city while 31, 403 vehicles registered in the province.IMT

DOT-6 allocates P2 billion for tourism

The Department of Tourism-6 (DOT-6) said that Western Visayas has been allotted more than P1-billion share in tourism infrastructure and road projects implemented

by Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to boost tourism.

Lawyer Helen Catalbas, DOT-6 Regional Director, said that the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has set aside a national budget of P12-billion for tourism infrastructures and road convergence projects.

Catalbas said that Region VI has been allocated a share of more than P1-billion for infrastructure and road projects leading to tourist destinations and facilities.

She said that the role of DOT-6, in coordination with local government units (LGUs) and district representatives, is to identify the concerned tourism road projects and to certify the tourism importance of these projects with the DPWH as the implementing agency.

On one hand, Catalbas said that DOT-6 also forged “convergence partnerships” with other government agencies aside from the DPWH. A convergence program will be conducted with the Department of Interior and Local Government through consultations with local

leaders and officials in the different cities and provinces in the region.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources will focus on the development of eco-tourism sites in biodiversity areas in Central Panay and Northern Negros.

The partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development will center on tourism projects that can provide sustainable livelihood for the less privileged and the physically-handicaps.

The Department of Trade and Industry will focus on the items produced for export by Ilonggo craftsmen.

The Department of Agriculture will help in the food production not only for the region’s seven-million population but also for the three-million tourists visiting our localities.

The partnership with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority will focus on the skills training of tourism workers to achieve the standards imposed by the International Standards Council.

Catalbas said that she also started discussing with Police Regional Office-6 Regional Director Agrimero Cruz, Jr. the curriculum for the training of police officers particularly those serving in tourist spots.

(LTP/PIA-Iloilo)

More than 4,000 hotel rooms eyed to completed in Iloilo by 2015

BY REYMAR LATOZA To accommodate large number of tourists, the city and provincial government of Iloilo are gearing up for collaborative goal of completing more than 4,000 hotel rooms by 2015.

Atty. Helen Catalbas, Regional Director of the Department of Tourism (DOT-6) said that the number hotel rooms should keep up a correspondence on the increasing number of tourist arrivals.

“The tourism potentials of Iloilo have been barely scratched on the surface as there is a wide room for improvement,” Catalbas added.

Over two thousand hotel rooms are still needed to reach the said target number. Presently, Iloilo has only 2,000 hotel rooms.

Based on the latest record of DOT-6, in

Photo credits to the owner 2012, there were 3.099 million total number of tourists had visited Western Visayas. With the figure, Iloilo City recorded a total of 526,965 tourists while Iloilo Province had 80,184 total number of tourists.

The said goal is also part of the Iloilo City’s preparation for the APEC Ministerial Meetings on 2015. Iloilo were among the cities shortlisted to host one of the meetings.IMT

NTC names telcos with most number of complaints

BY REYMAR LATOZA Over one thousand five hundred complaints were received by the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) against Telecommunication companies (telcos) from January to June this year.

According to the NTC consumer welfare and protection division, they already recorded 1,569 total complaints in the first six months of 2013. The following were the top four telcos with the most number of complaints from Filipino consumers: SMART (591), GLOBE ( 556) SUN CELLULAR ( 241) and PLDT (181).

NTC added, last month, dropped calls became the top type of complaints, but now poor or lack of internet connectivity pours this month of August from Filipino consumers.

OIC of NTC’s consumer welfare and protection division Froilan Jamias said that telcos

should address those complaints filed by their consumers before the number of complaints reached the alarming stage.

ABS-CBN reported that out of the estimated 105 million cellphone subscribers in the Philippines, only 6.2 million have internet subscription. Majority are still using cellphone for just text and call.

Report added that Globe has not yet received the data from NTC, while SMART and PLDT spokesman said they are already working hard to address the said complaints. They were not surprised by the complaints because they have lots of internet subscribers. Smart guaranteed to improve their services and network facilities.

In 2011, NTC received 1,028 complaints, and in 2012, there were 2,143 complaints. ABSCBN/IMT

DBM released budget to upgrade police force

BY KHARIZA JOY SOFIA For the Philippine National Police (PNP) Operational Transformation Plan for FY 2013, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) provided P2.86-billion to the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG). The transformation plan seeks to boost the capacity of Philippine’s police force and increase crime prevention and security all over the country.

The said budget will comprise the repair and maintenance of police supplies and the acquisition of mission-essential equipment for mobility, firepower, communication and investigation, according to Budget Secretary Florencio “Butch” Abad.

“Ensuring sustained and inclusive development will also depend on the government’s ability to facilitate peace and order in the country.

We still have a lot of work to do toward bringing greater security to our communities, especially in areas where crime and violence are a systemic problem. This latest release will support and better capacitate our police force, allowing us to safeguard our people and make our crime prevention efforts more strategic and efficient,”

Abad said.

Almost 90 percent or P2.5-billion of the total amount will be utilized to acquire 1,000 patrol jeeps, 13,597 long firearms and 4,997 mobile radios. Also, it will aid in improving the Firearms Identification System (FIS), which was designed to augment police investigative capabilities on firearms-related cases.

The remaining budget will be consumed for minor repairs and repaint of 810 of the most dilapidated police stations and to procure of M4 magazines and kits for PNP maneuver units.

In addition, another P655-million is scheduled to be released for creating positions and hiring 7,439 Non-Uniformed Personnel (NUPs), who will be put to regional offices and do most of the administrative works.

“By increasing the number of staff in our regional offices, our policemen won’t have to preoccupy themselves with administrative matters. Instead, they can focus on mobilizing their forces more effectively so they can respond more quickly to emergencies and improve their visibility in their assigned areas,” Abad disclosed.IMT

AusAID grant helps build educational facilities in Iloilo A grant amounting to P55,789,193. 37 will help build 16 day care centers and 39 school buildings that will enhance access and quality of education in poor and far-flung communities in the province of Iloilo.

The grant comes from the Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID) and will be used to fund the construction of the said educational facilities in the ten municipalities of the province through the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (Kalahi-CIDSS), one of the government’s anti poverty programs being implemented by the Department of Social Welfare and Development.

DSWD 6 Kalahi-CIDSS Social Marketing Officer Maricar Calubiran identified the ten municipalities covered by the AusAID projects in Iloilo as Ajuy, Carles, Calinog, Concepcion, Janiuay, Lambunao, Lemery, Maasin, San Dionisio, and San Rafael.

The beneficiary communities have also put up a total of P12,415,675.93 as their local counterpart contribution to the program which uses the community driven approach or strategy in the implementation of projects.

Calubiran said the construction of the facilities started in February and expected to be

completed before the year ends.

“The construction of these educational facilities is a big boost in ensuring that household beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program will be able to meet the educational condition of the program,” said Calubiran.

Household beneficiaries with qualified children are given educational grants provided they comply with the condition of at least 85 percent school attendance under 4Ps which is the flagship poverty alleviation program of the government.

Calubiran said data showed that there is an increase enrollment among children of 4Ps beneficiaries in the country and the construction of these facilities will help address the shortage of day care centers and school buildings especially for communities which were not covered by the Makamasang Tugon and other modes of KalahiCIDSS implementation.

Recently, the DSWD 6 was cited for its best practice on safety and health during the construction of a 1 unit 3 classroom-building funded by AusAID for Velasco Elementary School in Brgy. Velasco, Lemery, Iloilo. The giving of the recognition was part of the Project Review and Implementation of AusAID funded projects in the country amounting to some $10 million. (JCM/LAF/PIA6)

August 18 - 24, 2013

METRO BUSINESS

3

construction boom enhances workers’ lives

BY REYMAR LATOZA

Jun Alpescar, 32, is earning P2,400 a week or P400 a day as a construction worker. He is almost one month working in a private owned building in Iloilo City.

Lucky for him because he has a relative in Iloilo City who provided him free lodging. Every week he is sending money to his wife and three children in Bacolod City.

He is thankful if there is overtime pay, because he earns more money to be sent home.

Asked if his salary is enough to give the basic

needs of his family, he said that fortunately his wife able to manage the money he is being sent to buy food for 3 meals a day, school allowance for his two children in elementary and the youngest child in kindergarten. And some amounts from his salary are allotted for electric bill, water bill and other expenses.

He also shared his worry if he could still afford to send his children in high school and in college.

According to The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Alpescar is among many Filipinos in the Philippines who are working in

Transpo sectors wants intensive study for PBO

BY MARY PAULINE BALMES

Different sectors of the society have expressed their support as well as opposition to the proposed perimeter boundary ordinance (PBO) of the city government.

The city government has allocated two days for public consultation together with the public and private traspo-related organizations.

Council Plaridel Nava led the public hearing presenting first the comprehensive 2013 version of the PBO which aims at giving thorough solutions to the perennial traffic problems in the city.

During the first day of the public consultation, representatives from the poles of transport organizations, progressive organizations, market vendors and other concerned organization were invited.

The city loop organizations composed of the Iloilo City Alliance of Drivers Associations (ICADA), Iloilo City Alliance of Jeepney Operators and Drivers Associations (ICAJODA) expressed their all-out support to this endeavour while jeepney operators and driver associations from the Metro Iloilo Economic Development Council were asking consideration to allow jeepneys from first town municipalities, such as Leganes, Pavia, Sta. Barbara, San Miguel and Oton, to enter the city interior.

Progressive organizations, however, insisted

that the implementation of the PBO would mean additional cost for families, students and working professionals. These progressive orgs are the likes of Bayan Panay, Gabriela, League of the Filipino Students, Karapatan, Kilusang Mayo Uno, Association of Terminal Market Vendors and Alliance of Public Health Sector.

On the second day of the public consultation, government agencies directly or indirectly involved and affected with the implementation of the PBO were gathered and were asked about their position.

Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) Director Romulo V. Bernardes and Land Transportation Office (LTO) Regional Director Anuel Bonite, though did not state their position on PBO, guaranteed Nava to help in managing should the PBO be on full implementation Mr. Jose Roni S. Peñalosa, City Planning Coordinator (ICPDO) said more in depth analysis should be done in order for the traffic management to be properly undertaken.

The National Economic Development Authority representative, however, it would take the city three to nine months to gather enough date should they opt to comprehensively study the impact of the ordinance. He added that there should be a point of reference to where study should start in order to determine the cost and time needed for the study.IMT

Possible meeting venues in WV to undergo inspection for Ph APEC hosting in 2015

BY REYMAR LATOZA The probable venues in Western Visayas (WV) for the Asia-Pacific Economic Council (APEC) Ministerial Meetings to be hosted by the Philippines on 2015 will be inspected by an interagency inspection team from APEC this month.

Director Helen Catalbas of the Department of Tourism (DOTC-6) said the inspection team will arrive in Boracay on August 18; Iloilo City on August 28; and Bacolod City on August 29.

Catalbas said in a report of Philippine News Agency (PNA) her office will serve as guide to the inspection team in rating the possible venues such as existing and soon to be constructed hotels, restaurants, convention centers, roads, and bridges, fun centers and other amenities fit for international participants.

Iloilo City and Boracay were among the eight cities and destinations shortlisted as possible venues for several APEC ministerial meetings, while Bacolod City will serve as a back-up venue.

Last week, Foreign Affairs Undersecretary Laura del Rosario, head of the National Organizing Council for APEC named the top 8 possible venues.

Metro Manila, Clark, Tagaytay, Legazpi, Cebu, and Davao joined Iloilo and Boracay in the list.

Del Rosario said in a report of GMA News. com the shortlisted sites are “under serious considerations” by the organizers but will have to go through another round of evaluation every six months before 2015 to ensure its readiness to host the meetings.

He added the cities that were reviewed have

passed the initial requirements based on certain criteria - security, cleanliness, and accessibility.

The criteria for selection of venues also include facilities and infrastructure, power and water conditions, and medical services availability.

In an interview of DYRI RMN with Iloilo City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog, he admitted that there are still lots of things to do in order for the city of Iloilo to be included in the final list of venues for APEC ministerial meeting.

“We need to focus on the important factors, first, peace and order, second is venues, third, hotel accommodation, fourth,people’s attitude and characteristic, and fifth is the availability of medical services,” Mabilog said.

As part of his plan, Mabilog had identified and separated several things that he can do in terms of resources from the things that need support from national government and private sectors.

“I classified all the cost extended and all that I can do without any additional cost, for example in the enforcing of cleanliness, and changing people’s attitude and characteristics. All of these can be done right away through trainings and seminars. I set aside for the mean time the cost extended, because we still have to find partners like private sectors or assistance from the national government through Senator Franklin Drilon” The APEC 2015 is considered the biggest and most high profile annual gathering of some 1000 world leaders from 21-member economies.

It will have 18 different ministerial meetings with an event every month from November 2014 to December 2015. GMA/PNA/IMT

construction with low pay, because they lack of training course in construction Alpescar is an elementary graduate and did not undergo training course in construction.

Based on the report of the DOLE’s Bureau of Labor and Employment (BLE), Filipino construction workers who took training course can earn P13,000 to 40,000 a month.

Based on the latest data, construction is one of the sectors with biggest contribution in the 7.8% gross domestic product (GDP) growth posted in the first quarter of 2013 Rappler’s report said construction grew the highest at 33.7%.. It is also big contributor to industry sector growth of 32.7%. Manufacturing also gave a boost as it grew 9.7%. IMT

Gov’t funds 2014 debt servicing

BY MARY PAULINE BALMES

The government is giving out 34% or an equivalent of P791.5 billion of the proposed P2.268 trillion 2014 national budget for public debt servicing.

According to the Department of Finance (DOF), the administration intends to pay P352.7 billion in interest, composed of domestic debt (P248.4 billion) and foreign borrowings (P104.3 billion), rising 5.6 higher compared to the P333.9 billion total interest payment this year.

For principal payments, the government will spend about P438.8 billion including the P350.9 billion for domestic debt servicing; P85.8 billion to P89.9 billion allocated for principal payments on foreign debt.

DOF said that the money used to pay the interest on loans is from the tax and non-tax revenues collected by the government.

The government has allotted 12.79 percent lower or P316.38 billion in loan obligations first half of this year. In the same period of last year, P362.79 was paid.

As of May, the government liability stood at P5.36 trillion of which P3.46 trillion of this came from

domestic sources and P1.9 trillion to the gross domestic product (GDP).

In a report of the Philippine Star, Budget Secretary Florencio B. Abad said the government remains committed to its fiscal consolidation strategy which should help reduce the country’s debt stock and create more fiscal space for programs and projects that support inclusive economic growth.

The Aquino Administration, in line with the government’s scheme to shave foreign currency debt, stretch maturities and cut borrowing costs; has been depending on domestic borrowings rather than from the global market being indebted to the enormous liquidity in the country’s financial system.

PhilStar/IMT

METRO TOURISM

August 18 - 24, 2013

Second District: Iloilo’s Eco-Cultural Destination

BY BOMBETTE G. MARIN Photos by Norman Posecion (USA-CAP), Vincent Angelo Gefes, Rommel Calcena It does not need to be said that the Second District of Iloilo province is an area with natural beauty; gorgeous mountain ranges, dense forest, adventure activities as well as arts and music. It draws on its legacy of eco-cultural adventure and provides its visitors with opportunities to explore the area with a sense of discovery and wonder. The Second District presents them with wonderful traveling opportunities and culturally enriching adventures with minimum impact on its fragile environment.

LEON One of Iloilo’s most scenic and adventure spot is the municipality of Leon. An old town 28.2 kilometers away from the city is full of fun. With a landscape dominated by mountains, the area offers sweeping downhill and uphill trails, from technical mountainous and remote terrain to surfaces suitable for family trips. The crown jewel of its attractions is the pine-clad BUCARI. Popularly called as “The Little Baguio of Iloilo,” it is surrounded by mist-covered mountains with a subtropical highland climate. It is situated in the highest portion of Leon situated 1,200-meter-above sea level. Declared as an Eco-tourist zone, Bucari is 10,432.875hectares. The cool climate is fitting for growing rice and other high-value produce such as fruits and vegetables.

Farmers grow their crops along the hills and mountainside in terraces.

The tour can be relaxing where visitors will surely have fun and take time to take photos and enjoy the fantastic scenery Leon has to offer. The town offers a plethora aof activities to its visitors that include trekking, biking, rock climbing, cave exploration and swimming to its falls. To get to Leon, one can take a jeepney or van in Barangay Desamparados at the Jaro Public Mark. The upland barangay of Bucari can be reached by jeepney at the Leon public plaza on a scheduled trip every day.

The Baroque architectural design of ST. CATHERINE OF ALEXANDRIA PARISH in Leon was once considered as the biggest stone edifice in the whole of Panay. The construction started in 1869, three years after the town was transferred from Camando, the original townsite. The interior was Renaissance-Romanesque in style. It measures 100 feet high and 300 feet long and covering almost two streets of the town, namely Sta. Catalina and Sto. Niño. The walls were three and a half feet thick and five feet in each post is elevated to more than 32 feet to the roof. The rocks used in the construction were quarried from neighboring sitios.

ALIMODIAN A municipality of unspoiled natural wonders, Alimodian has pristine rainforests, hills, lakes and waterfalls, a perfect place for a superb nature holiday. The most popular is its highland community known as the “SEVEN CITIES.” Promoted as an eco-tourism site, it is coined from its seven clustered barangays: Tabug, Cabacanan Proper, Cabacanan Rizal, Dao, Lico, Manasa and Umingan. It is home to attractions like Tinagong Danao, Agua Colonia, Umingan Plateau, Ibagat Spring, Farm Terraces, Maslog Falls, Bato Dungok and Oyang Cave. The area is also known as the town’s rice granary and producing high-value commercial crops such as cauliflowers, carrots, Baguio beans and sayote. This historical town is located on the southwest portion

of Iloilo. It has an area measuring to 14,482 hectares majority of it devoted to agriculture. It is subdivided into 51 barangays grouped into 9 districts.

The cornerstone of ST.THOMAS OF VILLANOVA PARISH in Alimodian was laid in December 5, 1859. It was finished in 1864 and was formally opened to the public for worship on December 22 of the same year. The construction of the convent was completed in 1868. It was said that the belfry of the church was one of the tallest and the most beautiful in Panay and Negros. The convent of the church was completed in 1868 and was just as big as the church though longer in length. The stones used in the construction of the church were taken in Camando (Leon). The 1948 earthquake known as “Lady Kaykay” rocked the church, its convent and belfry collapsed. The ruined church was renovated an opened for public worship in 1951.

STA. BARBARA One of the greatest ways to enjoy Santa Barbara is to visit its golf course, known as the oldest golf course in the Philippines built in 1907. The scenic beauty of the town is a natural complement to the game. Fun and challenging par 70 on 5,248 meters rolling hills with wellmanicured lawns boasts an amazing golfing experience around every turn. This 18-hole golf course is only 16 kilometers or about 20 minutes by car from the city. Amenities include a Clubhouse, restaurant, Tea houses on the course and Practice area Caddies. There is always a new reason to enjoy a day of golf and fun times with family and friends at the ILOILO GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB, an ideal way to enjoy the outdoors and the company of others.

The Filipino-Baroque colonial structures of the SANTA BARBARA CHURCH AND CONVENT were constructed in 1845 and finished in 1886. The huge stones that were used as post, walls and floors of the church and convent were called bato piedra sileria and piedra tsina.

Made of adobe, coral stone and red bricks, the church and convent served as the headquarters for the Ilonggo Revolutionary Forces under General Martin Delgado in 1898. It was declared as a National Historical Landmark by the National Historical Institute.

BOBBIN-LACE AND E M B O I D E RY- M A K I N G is a livelihood project of WUTHLE Inc. (Women United Through Handcrafted Lace and Embroidery) at the Western Visayas Sanitarium in Barangay Inangayan, Sta. Barbara. The lace textile made by braiding and twisting lengths of thread attached on bobbins. It may be made with coarse or fine threads. The woven pattern is held in place with pins set in a lace pillow, the placement of the pins is determined by a pattern or by pricking on the pillow. The products made by WUTHLE can be customized in terms of the materials used, colors combination, size and print or design. The facility is open to the public and visitors can see how these simple threads are made into delicate works of art.

PAVIA The Barangays of Jibaoan and Pandac in Pavia has a thriving POTTERY-MAKING industry that has since provided economic benefits and had improved the way of life of their people. They are known for their pottery skills using the traditional method. They are known for their pots locally known as “coron”, firewood-

fired stoves or “sig-ang,” drinking jars or “banga,” and water containers or “tadyaw.” Open pit firing method is applied. The finished products are then transferred to the public markets in the city and to other markets of its neighboring towns.

LEGANES There is no better way to get to know Leganes than through their intense spirituality and religious faith to San Vicente Ferrer, the central figure of the PALAPAK, a popular practice among devotees where the base of a small statue of Saint Vincent Ferrer is pressed on the head of a devotee hoping for a miraculous cure from the winged saint. Many who suffer from various sickness and even those with physical disabilities are amongst those faithful hoping that a miracle might happen through St. Vincent Ferrer’s intercession. Wonders and miraculous healing have been attributed by the faithful to their vow of devotion to the patron saint.

PANGAYPOT or salt-gathering is the means of livelihood of the people of Barangays Napnud, Guaan and MV Hechanova in Leganes. They are known as the prime producer of fresh sea-salt in Iloilo. In the summer, salt-beds are a favorite attraction of the town due to the harvest activities where people gather around their salt beds. The salt making process is simple in nature, requiring only physical strength, as it demands extensive toils. Leveling the sand, the initial part of the procedure, takes place in the early morning, between 5.00 to 6.00a.m. to prepare the pans.

Seawater is then collected through pails and poured into the pans. A pan of 10 by 10 meters requires twohours pouring by two people to get it fully filled.

Iloilo Province has been promoting its natural and cultural attractions in order to attract tourists, with an emphasis on “eco-cultural” sights and activities. These are expected to attract wellheeled visitors who spend more and have less of an impact on the environment. For more information, please contact the Office of Culture, Arts, History and Tourism, Iloilo Province at (033) 3384910.

August 18 - 24, 2013

METRO ENTREPRENEUR

Nick’s street concept

WEESAM EXPRESS

ILOILO - BACOLOD - ILOILO DEPARTURES

BY MARY JANE UBAY “Follow your passion, and success will run after you.” This is a familiar line quoted from the movie 3 idiots. The film encourages the viewers to follow their passion to become their profession, and as an outcome they will be more effective and productive individuals.

Nick Porquez, our entrepreneur for this week is an alumnus of Iloilo Doctors College.

He is a radiologist by profession, who became a business man. After finishing his college

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degree, he went abroad as an OFW. He worked in Taiwan FARE: (All charges in) as a factory worker for two One Way Non-aircon (W3 only) P250 years.

ECO. aircon P340 FC. aircon P435 All of his achievement ROUND TRIP PROMO was not obtained overnight; ECO. aircon P585 aircon P665 all that he has right now FC. Schedule subject to change without prior notice. is but the fruit of his hard For details please call: labor. His parents were into ILOILO (033)337-3282 / 09228660338 BACOLOD (034)709-0630, 433-9125 business. He saw them enjoying while transportation business before. Nick used to see them doing their managing it. That set as a good example for him to follow. Aside from that, Nick loved to draw cars. This is his favorite past time even up to now. That love and passion for cars became his greatest motivation to achieve his goals. He is a former champion of the Shell Jeepney King Challenge organized by the Peping Pasada Club. Nick said that his greatest satisfaction is doing his passion, and that his secret for becoming a champion. His advocacy is to create durable jeepneys that will make us Ilonggo proud.IMT

Inclement weather...from page 1

Traffic not...from page 1 in Iloilo Terminal Market – also known as Super.

“Sixty to seventy percent of fresh vegetables and fruits in the market came from the province.

If the ban will be implemented, same percent will also be lost in the income. People from out of town, bolante as we call them, are the ones who earn the most. We have observed that for the past few years”, Gascon further added.

He added that they appeal for only two jeepneys per town to cater the consumers buying in Super. He also insisted that it is impossible for the provincial jeepneys to cause traffic for they are only parked in the terminal market.

“If you asked us, private vehicles cause the traffic. You can see some of them parked on the supposed to be loading and unloading areas”, he said. “Jeepneys from outside towns do not go around Delgado, Iznart, Valeria and Ledesma streets, private vehicles and interior jeepneys do”.

Nava said that jeepneys will be allowed only during “dead hours”, 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. Gascon said they are only putting the lives of the suppliers to danger. He said that for those suppliers especially from town of Leon, where NPAs are rampant,

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delivering goods at those hours can be very risky.

On the contrary, he suggests for the authorities to establish traffic lights and strictly implement traffic regulations around the city.

“What the authorities need to do is to implement traffic rules accordingly. They should discipline drivers, both private and public vehicles, to park their cars on the right area as well as load and unload their passengers on the designated location”, Gascon added.

For the ITVA president, the said action will add another burden to students, parents and consumers, which may later, lost their interest to go to the city if total ban of jeepneys will be put into action.IMT

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down in some power lines.

Meanwhile, PECO is currently installing the new 69 kV line for Megaworld from Brgy. Bolilao substation to Iloilo diversion road, on the way to tough north.

The said activity had been causing several power interruptions due to the shifting of power supply.

“We have to do early morning shut downs because we are shifting the power supply from the circuits in the said areas to other feeder which is far away from where we are installing,” Pastolero explained.

He clarified that power shifting involves only 5 to 10 minutes interruption.

“The shifting usually commenced at 1:00 to 1:05 o’clock in the morning and the normal configuration goes back before 6 after switching”.

Another reason of power interruptions is the road expansion in diversion road where some feeders need to be removed and install new ones.

“The Marina branch of our circuit needs to be

removed to pave the way for the expanded highway.

We also have to install new circuit in smallville area toward plazuela, and for the mean time we won’t allow telecommunication and cable companies to attach, unless they have clearance from DPWH and Iloilo City Council, “ Pastolero said.

Pastolero added that they are also targeting to clear the center aisle in diversion road before the end of 2013.

He appealed to all the consumers to understand that PECO is working in conjunction with the city government for their projects.

“We well all share the burden because it is for development of Iloilo City, All of these are for the benefit of everyone,” Pastolero said.

The completion of road expansion and megaworld project is part of Iloilo City’s preparation for Asia-Pacific Economic Council (APEC) Ministerial Meetings to be hosted by the Philippines on 2015. IMT

METRO OPINION

6 EDITORIAL

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Ready get set...go?

ow that Iloilo is included in the shortlisted possible venues for t h e 2 0 1 5 A s i a Pa c i f i c E c o n o m i c C o o p e r a t i o n ( A P E C ) Su m m i t , t h e r e i s m o r e reason for Iloilo in rapidly finishing the ongoing developments and fixing systems t h a t m a y e v e n t u a l l y a f f e c t t h e c i t y’s b i d .

Are we really prepared for this? The course of actions we are taking today will define the next few months and the next few years. The clock is ticking.

With only more than 2,000 hotel rooms available as of this time, roads rehabilitation a l l ov e r t h e c i t y, p o w e r s h o r t a g e a l m o s t e v e r y o t h e r d a y a n d o rd i n a n c e s s u r f a c i n g t o m a i n t a i n p e a c e a n d o rd e r - I l o i l o i s i n d e e d o n e o f t h e p r e o c c u p i e d c i t i e s i n t h e c o u n t r y.

Pe o p l e may have mistaken this developments and initiatives as pain in the neck as this would mean change, adjustment and modification not only for the city but for Ilonggos as well. While many Ilonggos would consider these inconvenient for t h e m , p r o b a b l y t h e r e a r e a l s o s o m e w h o’s s a c r i f i c i n g t h i s p r ov i s i o n a l t r o u b l e i n e xc h a n g e f o r a b e t t e r o u t c o m e i n t h e l o n g r u n .

T h e A P E C Su m m i t w i l l b r i n g n o t o n l y a hundred but more than a thousand of guests here in the countr y and will leave to them different perceptions of our place.

Imagine how many eyes would notice our d i r t y s t r e e t s , p o l l u t e d b o d i e s o f w a t e r, unorganized traffic management, unstable p o w e r s u p p l y, a n d c o n c e i t e d b e h a v i o u r s o f o u r f e l l o w s . Mu l t i p l y t h i s t o h o w many ears would hear all the unpleasant experiences when they go back to their respective countries. See the ripple effect?

Only if we could just be temperate about this for the mean time, bare the short-term effects and think critically the results on a long-term basis then maybe we c o u l d s a y e v e r y t h i n g i s w o r t h t h e w a i t . By then, we could imagine how visitors and tourists would have good impression about t h e c i t y, h o w m a n y e y e s w o u l d a p p r e c i a t e the simplicity and elegance combined, the cleanliness, the organization, the peace and o rd e r, a n d h o s p i t a b i l i t y o f t h e I l o n g g o s .

These may not still be half way of our preparations but a little push is needed on t h i s . A p u s h f r o m t h e g ov e r n m e n t , p r i v a t e s e c t o r s a n d o rd i n a r y I l o n g g o s t o c o n t r i b u t e a little of their time to understand that all these things that are happening are for the betterment of the city will eventually leave us harmonious and determined t o r e a c h o u r g o a l s a s a c o m m u n i t y.

Size Matters in Spain

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ack to the future.

T h a t ’ s what many Filipinos hope to happen after the spectacular performance of Gilas Pilipinas during the recent 27th FIBA Asia Men’s Basketball Championship held at the Mall of Asia arena.

Although the Filipinos lost the Gold Medal match to the towering Iranians led by Hamed Hadadi, a 7-foot-2 Phoenix Sun veteran, the team nevertheless clinched a slot to the 2014 FIBA World Cup in Spain. In the mind of Filipino enthusiasts, we have dreamed of having sent qualified and highly competitive basketball players to the world arena earlier on.

The Philippines, in retrospect, had already been to four world championships and in fact ended third in Brazil back in 1954. For the current silver medallists, the big consolation is that everyone is getting a bonus of P1 million from Samahang Basketball ng Pilipinas president Manny V. Pangilinan.

Coach Chot Reyes admitted that without 6-11 center Marcus Douthit, it was difficult to play against a team with tremendous size, talent, and good coaching.

The presence of Junemar Fajardo (6-10) and Japeth Aguilar (6-9) did not deter Hadadi from scoring 29 points for the Iranians.

It’s common knowledge.

No mystery about it. Basketball is a game of size. A good player must not only have ball handling expertise but should also have the bulk, muscle, and height.

The tallest players in NBA history were Gheorghe Muresan and Manute Nole (both 7-7). Officially, however, the tallest basketball player in the world is Paul Sturgess (7-8) from Great Britain, who is now with the Harlem Globetrotters.

One rare exception is Tyrone “Muggsy” Bogues (5-3) who was the shortest player in NBA history. He played for 14 seasons as guard for the Charlotte Hornets. Ex –teammate Larry Johnson and Spud Webb claimed that “the team feeds off his energy. Muggsy is a spark on offense and a real pest on defense”.

When James Naismith, a Canadian-born American invented the sport of basketball in Springfield College, Massachusetts in 1891, the original 13 rules of basketball that he wrote did not specify any height limit for team members (9 versus 9). The goals were made of peach basket and were 10 feet from the floor.

Unlike modern basketball, there was no dribbling and the ball could only be moved upcourt via a pass. Rule No. 3 states that “A player cannot run with the ball. The player must throw it from the spot on which he catches it, allowance to be made for a man who catches the ball when running at a good speed if he tries to stop”. A jump ball was also taken in mid-court after each goal.

Today, coaches in the United States recruit players (Men’s Basketball) to participate for NCAA if they have the following height: Point Guard 5-11+; Shooting Guard 6-1+; Small Forward, 6-3+; Power Forward, 6-7+, and; Center, 6-9+.

The Miami Heat 2013-14 Roster shows Mario Chalmers and Norris Cole at 6-2 and Greg Oden at 7-0 for a team average height of 6-8.

However, when you line up selected players, their average height reaches 6-10. The formidable mix and the presence of the legendary Lebron James coupled with high level offense-defense classics under coach Erik Spoelstra, a FilipinoAmerican, propelled Miami Heat to two NBA championships in 2012 and 2013.

August 18 - 24, 2013 “We are not going to Spain without a naturalized seven footer,” declared Reyes. “And he doesn’t necessarily have to be American,” he added. This is a tacit admission that the Filipinos cannot just compete against the elite of world basketball without height advantage, without the best players that could ever be assembled, and without tremendous resource support.

One question was posed. Should there be a height limit on basketball players? The popular answer was no. It will take away the excitement and relegate many talented players below 6 feet out of action. Instead, the suggestion was to raise the basket from 10 to 12 or 14 feet. This will lessen the value of seven-footers without hurting the short players. Basketball is a dynamic sport and maybe there will be certain rule revisions in the near future.

What chances do we have of making it among the top three teams in the world next year?

Aside from having two or three naturalized sevenfooters, the team will need lots of preparation. It is to their credit that in spite of the short lead time for team practices, they gradually melded into a cohesive group. Yet many observed that the team spirit was fragile as some players tended to show off or attempted to “stand alone” while being egged out by the very supportive home crowd.

Iran’s Slovenian coach Mehmed Becherovic asserted after the game that Gilas Pilipinas scared him at half-time but had high praise for the energy that the Filipino team drew from the nearly 20,000 crowd in attendance. Without a big Filipino crowd in Spain, he doubted if Gilas could sustain the same energy level.

Probably he does not realize that there are thousands of Filipinos in Spain especially in Madrid, Granada, Barcelona, Seville, Bilbao, and Canary Islands where the games will be played. A big contingent of Filipino fans with deep pockets (not just politicians) will surely fly out to Spain and wave the Filipino flags there in support of the national team next year.

So what are you waiting for? Have your passports ready, secure a Spanish Visa soon, and polish your Español. !Nos vemos en españa mi amigos y amigas

Protection orders This can be a subject of a bar question, but those who are planning to run for the position of Punong Barangay – the chief executive and enforcer of law in the barangay - must have some finer knowledge and understanding of some provisions of our laws, particularly Republic Act No. 9262, known as the Anti-Violence Against Women and their Children Act of 2004. There seems to be some “conflict” between this law and its implementing rules and regulations (IRR), but I will try to reconcile both, only on provisions relating to the grant of reliefs through protection orders.

RA 9262 provides for three kinds of protection orders available for women and/or their children who are victims of violence. These protection orders are the Permanent Protection Order (PPO), Temporary Protection Order (TPO) and Barangay Protection Order (BPO). The first two protection orders are remedies that can only be granted by our regular courts, while the last one, which is our primary concern, obviously, is available at the barangay level.

Unlike the PPO which requires notice and hearing, both applications for TPO and BPO are issued on the date of filing and granted ex-parte, meaning without notice and hearing of the respondent – who may be the husband or a person with whom the woman has a dating or sexual relation – the one who committed acts of violence against the woman or her child (VAWC). The TPO and BPO are

immediate remedies available to the victims of VAWC effective for a period of 30 and 15 days, respectively.

All these protection orders are issued for the purpose of preventing further acts of violence against the woman or her child and granting other necessary relief. And these acts of violence considered as public offenses under the law are classified into four: physical, sexual, psychological and economic. However, applications for protection order, especially for TPO and BPO, due to economic reason only– like, lack of financial support - rarely happens.

If we take a closer look of the law, Section 8 thereof does not limit, nor specify, what relief can be availed of for each of these three protection orders – PPO, TPO, and BPO. It only provides that such protection orders may include any, some, or all of the reliefs contained in the eleven (11) subsections.

Among these reliefs are: the removal and exclusion of the respondent from the residence of the petitioner; the directing of respondent to stay away from petitioner and any designated family or household member at a specified distance; and the directing of lawful possession and use by petitioner of an automobile and other essential personal effects, regardless of ownership.

Here comes now the confusion or “conflict”.

The IRR of the law does not expressly provide that the aforementioned reliefs, and some others, are available at the barangay level. It only states two reliefs -which are not on our aforesaid list. Note, however, that in specifically stating two reliefs which may be applied for through a BPO, the IRR does not use a proviso - any phrase at all that expressly excludes other reliefs provided by law.

This confusion is avoided and settled and without much concern on our part if the application for protection order is sought in our courts, because we will just leave it to our courts to settle the confusion or the conflict. But in case the application is at the barangay level, requiring prompt action, we cannot just leave this matter unattended and expect satisfactory action from our Punong Barangay or barangay officials.

Let us suppose: One day, a drunk husband arrives home at around 7:30 o’clock in the evening, and starts berating his wife, then punching her face left and right, and after hearing their three young children cry, he turns to them and beats them all without mercy; at this point, fearing for her life and that of her children, the wife rushes to the house of the Punong Barangay and applies for a Barangay Protection Order, requesting for reliefs that include the removal and exclusion of respondent husband from their residence for a certain period of time between five (5) to ten (10) days, and to direct him to stay away from her and their children at a certain distance of not less than 15 meters. She, however, does not want to imprison her husband, but only to give him a lesson. The question now would be: Can the Punong Barangay grant her request?

I submit that the Punong Barangay can grant her request. Although it appears that the IRR of RA 9262 does not expressly provide that the reliefs requested can be availed of through a Barangay Protection Order, the law is clear that these reliefs are available for the victims of VAWC, without distinction as to what protection order these reliefs be sought and availed.

To decide otherwise would defeat the purpose of the law which is to safeguard the victims from further harm. The wife believes that she and her children can be relieved of her fears for her life and the life of her children if her husband stays outside of their house at a certain distance, from that night on up to a maximum of ten (10) days. It would be an absurd implementation of the law if it is the victims that have to stay away from their house, while the perpetrator enjoys its comfort. The reliefs provided by law are for the victims, not for the perpetrator.

To find our Punong Barangay granting the same reliefs to situations similar to our example above only shows his/her working knowledge and clear understanding of the meaning and purpose of this law: the protection and safety of the victims of VAWC. ******** Send feedback to: arnoldcares@ yahoo.com

August 18 - 24, 2013

METRO OPINION

Let’s get ready to rumble

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Arcadio Gorriceta, and taking the PCL from the third district under Congressman Arthur Defensor, Jr. The fifth district of Congressman Niel Tupas, Jr. will take charge of the Liga ng mga Barangay President while the first district under Congressman Oscar Garin, Jr. will have the Mayor’s League. In terms of political loyalty, the Governor has enough reasons to trust Gorriceta and his own son. Gorriceta has just warmed himself up in his district and is expected to stay there until 2019. But the Tupases more than the Garins have eversince longed to regain the Capitol’s executive powers, therefore, gaining control of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan is of primodial importance. Being a last-termer by 2016 to 2019, Defensor has both the psychological and political edges over other aspiring gubernaturial candidates. This is where Vice Governor Raul Tupas must play his game -- by blocking the executive’s legislative agenda when politics windows to 2016. And this can be made possible when majority of the board members become his allies. Although reliable sources said, The Garins, with their secured political territory in the South also take interest in flexing their political muscles in the entire province by looking at the governorship as a token. If they get it, better. If not, it’s worth the try.

Going by the numbers, Defensor’s loyal allies are second district’s Demy

Sonza; third district’s Manny Gallar and Licurgo Tirador; and his PCL and SK picks; giving him a total of five.

Tupas may count on fourth district’s Mitch Monfort given her closeness to a known Tupas ally, Rolly Distura, Mayor of Dumangas; Nielo Tupas and their Liga ng mga Barangay President.

Garin has first district’s Ninfa Garin and Dennis Valencia; and fourth district’s Shalene Palmares given her cousin Jesry’s closeness with Garin, Jr. JR Salcedo of the fifth district is Biron’s lone ally. Second district’s Jun Mondejar may either be with Defensor or with Tupas; but since he aspires to challenge Gorriceta on 2016, he might choose his original ally prior to the 2010 alliance with Defensor.

All in all, Defensor has five (Sonza, Gallar, Tirador, SK and PCL); Tupas has four (Monfort, Tupas, Mondejar, Liga ng mga Barangay) Garin has three (Garin, Valencia, Palmares); and one neutral (Salcedo), but recently it has been reported that the Salcedo patriarch has unconditionally supported Defensor’s candidate for PCL. The clan went all out for the new PCL President Paulino Pari-an.

Politically speaking, the Garins will have another crack in this perceived loose alliance considering the swing votes they can deliver to either Defensor of Tupas. “King Oca” is

once again in a better position to demand what’s good for his politics in the South. But if a Garin runs for governor, each of them in the alliance must empower themselves.

There are four options that the Governor must take into account: First, he needs to be on guard with his alliance with Tupas.

Second, he needs to take care of Garin. Third, he must explore the possibility of renewing alliance with Biron. Fourth, he needs to be ready to do this alone. If it’s a three-cornered fight (Defensor versus Garin versus Tupas), Defensor will still be the man of the hour.

If it’s a two-cornered fight (Defensor versus Tupas) or a four-cornered fight (Defensor versus Garin versus Tupas versus Biron) the incumbent will still fare well. The alliance with the powerful clan from the South matters until eternity as I see it. In case of a split up between the three, that’s the only time that Biron will matter again. Wherever Biron gives his allliance, it will be a force to reckon with. If that happens, the rising star of the second district will come to life as a major player. Looking at the 2016 landscape of the second district, Congressman Gorriceta has no capable opponent in terms of resources.

This must be crazy and too early, but politics needs careful and advanced planning. Silently, I know that card-reading has now become an interesting game for all probable 2016 players in the province.

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What fuels your passion as a writer?

Envy, and the fear of being forgotten.

You see, when I read or see a thing of beauty, I want to create something better. I want to contribute my own verse to the symphony of the universe. I want to leave my own mark so that in the distant future, when my life is spent, people will know that I existed, and had made a difference.

understand that writing will not bring you money. If you think that writing will make you rich, you’ll be frustrated. So, if you want to be happy and remain sane, find a job that will support your writing and your art. What does it take to become a Palanca awardee?

Sheer talent. But a little dedication and commitment to good writing will not hurt your chances either.

money to be made into a film. I took the opportunity and just made a movie even if I didn’t know anything about camera tricks and editing. This I can say about me: I create opportunities for myself, and when opportunities come, I don’t hesitate to grab it by the balls!

What would you consider to be your career’s highlight and why?

Retirement at age 45! Haha. I just want to end my nursing career, and stop being a slave to the economic demands of society. I want to show people that money is not everything. It is definitely not the only standard of success. I want to show that there are other, happier, and healthier ways to live.

As a writer, the Palanca Hall of Fame is good enough for me as a career highlight, and also, to be able to translate my Bakunawa short story into a film [Gugma sa Panahon sang Bakunawa], and into a novel published in the United States [Love in the Time of the Bakunawa].

Any local or foreign writer that you look up to?

No one in particular. My taste in books is rather eclectic. But I have always been partial to the women poets of the Heian Period in Japan.

here is wisdom in denying Pototan SB Member Paulo Guanco the Philippine Councilors’ League (PCL) Presidency.

Governor Arthur Defensor, Sr. who like King Arthur of the medieval times, defended the British territory from the Saxon invaders, tells all and sundry again that his anticipation to possible political invasion by 2016 is that of an oracle’s. He may have learned his lessons when his young ally Ferj Biron did not just turn his back on him, but literally ran againt him this 2013 gubernatorial election.

In the current Sangguniang Panlalawigan set up, there are ten regularly elected SP members and three ex-officio members representing the Provincial Sangguniang Kabataan, the Provincial Liga ng nga Barangay and the Iloilo Provincial Chapter of the Philippine Councilors’ League. A total of thirteen SP members will determine the fate of the Governor’s legislative agenda including his annual and supplemental budgets until 2016.

The Governor was clever enough to assign the power-sharing agreement with his allies per legislative district according to what could possibly be the configuration in the Sangguniang Panlalawigan. He got two additional SP voters by assigning the SK to the second district under Congressman ow would you describe Peter Solis Nery in a poetic way?

As a verb, Peter Solis Nery is synonymous with dance, teach, challenge, inspire, and create. My dancing is legendary even as a kid; and now in my forties, I’m learning to tap dance.

Through various careers, as a religious missionary, as a teacher both in college and high school, as a nurse, newspaper columnist, and youth counselor, I can’t help but teach. I love challenges. I always try to outdo myself.

Without much training, I challenged the California state board exam for nursing, and became an award-winning nurse in Los Angeles. Without a degree in creative writing and with almost no writing workshop, I clinched the Palanca Awards Hall of Fame.

After that, having been sedentary all my life, I ran a full marathon in Los Angeles in April 2013. Although all of these look like mere challenges, I really am set to inspire people, and make them realize that it is possible to create our own opportunities. As an adjective, the synonyms for Peter Solis Nery are passionate, unpredictable, stubborn, committed, and giving. As a noun, Peter Solis Nery is a friend, brother, celebrity, writer, and lover.

What would be your advice to all young and aspiring writers? What does it take to become a Palanca awardee?

Quick advice: Make sure that you

Most Obedient

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hat is the latest update? To all those who are aware, and even those who are not, Iloilo is now one of the shortlisted locations which will have a chance to host one of the ministerial meetings of the upcoming APEC Summit in 2015.

On the preparation period, several changes are being implemented in the city; widening of roads, establishing of 5-star hotels, putting up a convention center among others. Traffic congestion on some areas of the city is also given solutions to allow vehicles to breathe. Apparently, one of the seen answers by the transportation committee is to ban all provincial vehicles from entering the city. The said idea gained several reactions, both positive and negative from different sectors, especially from the vendors located in Iloilo Terminal Market – also known as Super.

Will the ordinance answer the problem or will create another problem? If you were to ask the president of Iloilo Terminal Vendors Association (ITVA), banning of provincial jeepneys to enter the city will kill the livelihood of the vendors in the market.

With the looks of it, income will be certainly affected for 60 – 70 percent of the goods, including vegetables and fruits, available in super came from the towns outside the city. If it will be implemented, people from outside the city will surely choose to buy their foods on their own town rather than going to the city. In that case, what Iloilo Business Club executive director Lea Lara said will probably happen. Lara said that by banning the provincial jeepneys, the city is cutting its links to the outside towns.

Cutting the link. What can be the worst possible scenario that can happen when you cut a link? What happens when you cut the tube that connects oxygen to a patient? What happens when you cut down the rope that keeps you alive? What happens when you chose to live independently from your parents? What happens when you cut your communication with your friends or relatives? There can only be two possible things that can happen; it can either be an advantage for you or a disadvantage. The problem is some things don’t have rooms for trials and errors. Some things require longer time of research and study before taking possible long-term actions. As the third

My movie “Gugma sa Panahon sang Bakunawa/Love in the Time of the Bacunaua” started as a short story that didn’t win a Palanca award. When the Film Development Council of the Philippines announced a scriptwriting competition, I adapted it into a screenplay. You see, if I believe in my work, I don’t give up on it. Long story short, my script won, and it was awarded

What are the reasons behind the creation of The Peter Solis Nery Foundation? What are your plans for the Foundation?

I feel so blessed as a peer-recognized writer and a published author from a very young age. In my forties now, I want to give back to the community, and especially to the cause of the dying Hiligaynon literature so I established a Foundation dedicated to the promotion, preservation, and propagation of Hiligaynon literature, and Ilonggo arts and culture. I know that there are people richer and more powerful than I, like the politicians and showbiz superstars, who could probably better fund a Foundation like mine, but since they didn’t do it, I did.

Right now, the focus of the Foundation is on the literary writing contests that I sponsor, and the publication of Hiligaynon works, but especially those submitted to these contests.

law of motion states, in every action, there is always an opposite reaction. Probably, when the action will be done, a reaction will come after and when that reaction brings a negative effect, it can create further problems that was never been there in the first place.

From a point of view of someone who is living outside the city, the idea is not favorable for it will surely cause increase on fares as well as add few minutes on the traveling time of students and workers going to Iloilo. People from Leon, San Miguel, Pavia, Leganes San Joaquin, Miag-ao and others have jeepneys that enters the city via Iloilo Terminal Market and Jaro. They can save up to 20 pesos in their fare riding these jeepneys. If the ordinance will be implemented, people will ride 2 to 3 jeepneys from these towns when going to their destination, which will surely add some few pesos to their fares. If you are from Leon, fare costs around 40 pesos, one way only, from Leon to Iloilo at present. That is around 80 pesos, back and forth. Now, if you are a student from this town, you have to at least procure 150 pesos a day in order to go to your school and eat lunch. However, if you have examinations, you have to acquire at least 180 pesos, a 30

pesos extra money for photocopies and other materials needed in school. That is a very big amount already. If your parents own parcels of land, you can afford to go to school in the city, but if your father is a farmer and your mother is a plain housewife, and you have three other siblings, 180 pesos a day is a burden on your parents’ pocket.

Traffic congestion is not cause by provincial jeepneys. They are cause by undisciplined drivers, undisciplined auxiliaries, stubborn private car owners and passengers. Have you seen provincial jeepneys entering downtown areas? NO. Have you seen provincial jeepneys enter Valeria, Delgado, Ledesma, Iznart and JM Basa streets? NO. Have you seen private cars parked on loading and unloading areas around the city? YES. Have you seen private cars parked near sidewalks? YES. Have you seen operating traffic lights around the city?

NO. Let us not be hasty about our decisions.

Let us also think of the long-term effect of our actions. As ITVA president Bonifacio Gaston said, what we need is not cutting the link from the outside towns, we need discipline and strict implementation of our traffic rules and regulations.

In 2012, you have produced and directed your first indie film. Please tell us more about it.

August 18 - 24, 2013

METRO AGRICULTURE

9

Rehabilitation of Aklan River Watershed Forest Reserve set

KALIBO, Aklan – The Metro Kalibo Water District (MKWD), represented by its General Manager Edgar T. Isada, has recently signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) of the Aklan River Watershed Forest Reserve,

represented by Regional Executive Director Adeluisa G. Siapno of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), to signify the company’s interest to restore a portion of the Aklan River Watershed Forest Reserve.

The Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) has identified the CENRO of the municipality of Sara, Iloilo, as lead in the implementation of its seed production area (SPA) for Iloilo.

Science Research Specialist Allen Escario said the identification SPA is a response to the DENR-Ecosystems Research and Development Bureau for National Greening Program’s approval of the establishment of SPAs in Western Visayas, with a funding of P1 million per PENRO. Escario said other provinces including Aklan, Antique, Guimaras and Negros Occidental are also establishing their SPAs to see to it that they have sources of high quality planting seeds in their respective NGP sites.

Recently, Escario conducted a three-

day orientation with key personnel involved in the SPAs to provide them with ample knowledge and know-how on the selection, establishment, and management of seeds sources and on “Forest Tree Seed Technology.”

The participants had a hands-on activity starting with identification of “plus trees” in the four-hectare lot in Bgy. San Jose, Lemery, Iloilo, identified by the CENRO-Sara to be the location of the SPA. DENR-6 Regional Executive Director Adeluisa Siapno said DENR led by Secretary Ramon Paje is highly committed to attain the goals of the NGP, because of the strong and adequate support of the Aquino administration to the DENR for the NGP. (RPAO6/JCM/ESS/PIA-Iloilo).

Sara town is lead seed production area

Aklan PENR Officer Ivene D. Reyes signed as witness to the MOA that took place at the DENR-PENR Office at Bliss Site, Kalibo, Aklan. The MKWD intends to conduct rehabilitation of one hundred fifty hectares (150 has.) of forestland located at Brgy. Galicia, Madalag, Aklan, which is the completion of the area of the 2005 reforestation project of the water district. The area is within the Protected Area of the Aklan River Watershed Forest Reserve.

Prior to the MOA signing, the Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) was consulted about the said rehabilitation plan during its first and second PAMB meetings.

Through PAMB Resolution No. 1 dated May 31, 2013, the Board approved to grant the extension of the project.

The Aklan River Watershed encompasses eight (8) municipalities of Aklan such as Libaco, Madalag, Malinao, Lezo, Banga, Balete, Kalibo and Numancia. It was proclaimed a watershed on June 28, 1990 when former President Corazon C. Aquino

signed Presidential Proclamation No. 600 mandating the establishment of Aklan River Watershed Forest Reserve. The watershed lies geographically along North Latitude 122˚08’ to 122˚23’ and East Longitude 11° 42’ to 11˚10’.The total estimated aggregate area of the Aklan River Watershed Basin covered 76,010.53 hectares.

The assigned Park Superintendent (PASu) was tasked to provide technical assistance to MKWD and to help in regularly monitoring the progress of the project.

The area will be planted with indigenous species like Narra, Molave, Badlan and Batino, which are also endemic in the area.

The project is implemented this year 2013 and shall be completed by 2016.

MKWD is servicing Aklan’s capital town of Kalibo and adjacent municipalities of Banga, New Washington and Balete. On August 2003, the MKWD was re-categorized from Big to Large Water District category as approved by the Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA).

Malaysian Pawikan captured

(Left Photo) Aklan PENR Officer Ivene D. Reyes with General Manager Edgar T. Isada of the Metro Kalibo Water District (MKWD) during the MOA signing. Right photo shows by Mr. Frederick M. Buenavidez, Head Executive Assistant of MKWD, also signed as witness.

W. Visayas sells low-cost fertilizers

BY MONTESA GRIÑO-CAOYONAN This Green Turtle (Chelonia mydas) was trapped in a fish pen at Brgy. Bakhaw Norte, Kalibo, Aklan where metal tags found on its flippers traced its origin from Malaysian waters before it reached off the Philippine waters of Aklan.

KALIBO, Aklan – Instead of a large fish tuna or blue marlin, a Green turtle (Chelonia mydas), locally known as Pawikan, was trapped inside the fish pen locally called as “lambaklad” established by the members of Bakhaw Norte Agri-Fishery Association (BAFA), Kalibo, Aklan, just recently.

“Lambaklad” is a name combination of “lambat” (net) and “baklad” (fish pen) that describes the structure of the gear itself. It is mainly made-up of nets and bamboos formed into a two-hectare fish pen or fish corral. It is more resistant to the changing weather and strong waves compared to the traditional “baklad” as it liberally uses nets instead of bamboo for the fish cage walls. This new structure is a copy of the Japanese fishing technology called “Otoshi-Ami.” According to the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR), the “Lambaklad” is a thriving fishing technology that is built and installed in areas where large species of migratory fish such as tuna, barracuda, marlin and mackerel often travel. A fish catch averaging 100 kilos per day can be achieved through the said technology.

Christian V. Desa, Integrated Coastal Zone Management Program (ICZMP) provincial coordinator of the provincial government

of Aklan informed the DENR field office in Kalibo about the trapped pawikan inside the “lambaklad” late noon of August 1, 2013.

Immediately, DENR Kalibo PAWCZMS Coordinator Medelyn M. Quadra together with the staff of Mr. Desa, Yuri Tolentino and Rogelio Catchuela, proceeded to the area to check the veracity of the report. After careful inspection, Forester Quadra disclosed that the marine turtle has metal tag on both of its flippers. The right tag has numbered MY(S) 85767 while the left tag has a number of MY(S) 85768. Based on the International Coding of “pawikans”, it was tagged in Malaysia because of the initial “MY”. It has an estimated weight of 80 kilos while its carapace length and width is 104 cm. and 100 cm., respectively.

Flipper tagging is the most common method used to identify sea turtles and can also provide information on turtle’s population trends, habitat residency, movement patterns (including international movements among range states), individual growth rates, reproductive life history and strandings.

The Green Turtle was immediately released back to the ocean in the afternoon of the same day after all the needed data were gathered and recorded.(DENR-RPAO/ CENRO-Kalibo)

The Fertilizer and Pesticide Authority 6 (FPA-6) confirmed that Western Visayas has the lowest inorganic fertilizer prices on six major grades of fertilizer used by the farmers nationwide.

FPA-6 chief Rone Sangatanan said the regional average price per bag of urea is P 1,030, ammonium sulphate, P 650; complete fertilizer, P 1,163.33; ammonium phosphorous, P 978.33; muriate of potash (MOP), P 1,208.75; and diammonium-phosphate (DAP), P 1,615.00.

Sangatanan said comparing prices in Region 6 to Luzon and Mindanao, there is a higher difference from P 50 up.

“We have many fertilizer importers here in our region which is a major factor for the low cost of fertilizer. Their healthy competition among each other is most advantageous to our farmers who are primary users of these six major grades of fertilizer nowadays”, Sangatanan said.

He stressed that inorganic fertilizer can be repacked by the dealers into per kilo but he

strongly advised farmers to buy on a per bag basis which weigh at exactly 50 kilograms.

Sangatanan also encouraged farmers to check for the standard marking on each fertilizer bags which include: brand name, FPA product registration number, guaranteed analysis of the nutrients net mass/kg., name and address of manufacturer or importer and country of manufacturer if imported.

Sangatanan said that farmers should buy fertilizer and pesticides only to FPA accredited dealers or distributors to avoid buying adulterated and fake products which can harm their plants.

“We must take note that fertilizer has a shelf-life of two to five years”, he said.

The chief also warned dealers not to repacked pesticides and conform only to FPA rules and regulations stated in their respective licenses to void penalty and cancellation of their licenses.

FPA is a regulatory agency attached to the Department of Agriculture specifically mandated to regulate manufacture, distribution and usage of fertilizer and pesticide in our country. IMT

METRO SPORTS

10

August 18 - 24, 2013

Unbeaten CPU keeps lead in IBL

BY REYMAR LATOZA

Central Philippine University (CPU) maintained its unbeaten record after 11 games in Developmental Basketball Tournament “16-under” category of Iloilo Basketball League (IBL).

Its 4 wins and no loss record seems to bring the said team in the semifinal games all the way to the finals.

Westbridge moved up based on the latest standing, replacing Assumption School Passi City (ASPC) in the second spot.

Cougars tied with ASPC in the third spot and Iloilo National High School (INHS) in the 4th spot.

Meanwhile, Bario Obrero National High School high School (BONHS), Bing Conlu

Center (BCC) team A and B remained winless.

In game 6, Westbridge outlasted INHS, 5248.

In game 7, CPU won over BCC team A, 6143.

In game 8, Cougars made their first win after defeating BCC team B, 77-39.

In game 9, Westbridge became victorious against BONHS, 78-71.

In game 10, CPU succeeded over ASPCI with 2 shots margin, 65-61.

In game 11, Cougars upset BBC team B with large margin, 62-27.

IBL’s Developmental Tournament aims to discover and develop potential Ilonggo Basketball players.IMT

The Passionate Volleyball Player

BY REYMAR LATOZA

Gizelle Drilon Vidrio, 21, is a passionate volleyball player. She was in high school when she pursued her interest in the said sport . She tried out in the school varsity team in University of San Agustin, and she continued playing volleyball until her college years in the same school.

Gizelle stands 5’3” and weighs 52 kilograms.

She is currently a nurse trainee at Iloilo Mission Hospital. Her parents, Mrs. Tessie D. Vidrio and Mr. Marlon A. Vidrio never failed to give their support in all her games. When she was in high school she was awarded as Most Valuable Player and Athlete of the Year. Some of the competitions she joined were integrated and regional volleyball competition (champion), PRISAA (1st runner up); Shakeys V-league (2nd placer). In college she joined PRISAA (first rumnner-up), ISAA (1st runner-up), UNIGAMES (5th placer).

Here’s the uncut interview of IMT with Gizelle Vidrio: Why volleyball? What makes it special to you?

Gizelle: “I play volleyball because I love it. I guess it’s a passion that I cannot let go of. It is a great exercise. It is special to me because it helps me to improve my personality when dealing with others. It

also applies to me as a nurse by enhancing my skills in human to human relationship in working with other health care team. It boosts my self-esteem and gives me a chance to make many new friends.”

What kind of volleyball player are you?

Gizelle: “I play well and do my best for my coach and my team. I make myself as a good role model to my team and others. I’m humble, kind and prayerful. Communication, unity and perseverance are the keys to be a good player and I always tell it to my teamates. win or lose its fine as long as we enjoyed and applied sportsmanship to the opposing team.”

How do you prepare yourself before the competition?

Gizelle: “Me and the whole team will have trainings before the competition comes. After our classes we would go to the gym and have our practice. And when the day of the competition comes, we would have our team conference on how are we gonna play the game before the game starts.”

Challenges you had encountered before and how did you survive it?

Gizelle: “Sometimes I encountered small

misunderstanding with my teammates.

Especially when they don’t come on practice day. Then I will be scheduling a team forum to talk about how practice is important because it is part of how to discipline yourself.”

What are your learnings?

Gizelle: “I learned how to value teamwork, composure and perseverance. It is a great game for building ones character. Volleyball helps me succeed in other areas of life.”

Who is/are your inspiration/s?

Gizelle: “My greatest inspiration is my family. They support me in everything.”

What can you advise to those who are interested in playing volleyball Gizelle: “Confidence is very important you have to be aggressive during try-outs, you want to let the coach know you’re not afraid of the ball. Be punctual every practice and always have a good attitude.”IMT

Gizelle Drilon Vidrio

MetroMisc

11

The Wonders of Viktorija’s Aromatherapy

BY MARY PAULINE BALMES While many of us are fond of looking at the brand names and trademarks, from our bags and shoes down to our cosmetic products like body creams, perfumes and lotions, we barely notice some products whose quality might be even more effective than that of the branded.

Viktorija’s Aromatherapy name was derived from the name Viktorija Therese Perpetualle (granddaughter of Teresita Sabido-Suehiro, owner of the business). The aromatherapy, however, was derived from the ancient practice of using natural plant essences to promote health and well-being. It consists of the use of pure essential oils obtained from a wide assortment of plants, which have been team distilled or cold-pressed from flowers, fruit, bark and roots.

Aromatherapy can also ease a wide assortment of ailments; easing aches, pains, and injuries, while relieving the discomforts of many health problems. It also acts on the central nervous system, relieving depression and anxiety, reducing stress; relaxing, uplifting, sedating or stimulating, and restoring both physical and emotional well-being.

Viktorija’s Aromatherapy (Hair and Body Spa) is composed of lavender, peppermint, lemongrass, eucalyptus, jojoba, tea tree, ilangylang, gotu kola and sesame oil.

Lavender oil is extremely effective in treating the problem in hair loss. It aids in hair growth as well as treats sleeplessness, stress and anxiety.

Peppermint oil delivers a cooling effect to the scalp and any applied part of the body.

It fights dandruff and head lice. Since the oil balances the pH, it is used for the treatment of dry scalp or skin. It is also works as an astringent, helping in the normalization of the scalp and skin oil production; thereby, creating a neutralizing effect.

Lemongrass has an analgesic, anti-bacterial, carminative, deodorizing, febrifuge, fungicidal, antiseptic, anti-depressant, astringent, diuretic and antimicrobial properties. It finds utility in many areas due to all these properties and known to have just few side effects.

Tea tree oil removes dead skin cells and other impurities that maybe inhibiting healthy hair growth.

Jojoba oil is like a protection shield for the hair. Along with the conditioning and moisturizing benefits, it improves scalp capillary circulation. The inherent structure of jojoba oil resembles the sebum oil produced by the sebaceous glands.

Eucalyptus stimulates blood circulation and hair growth. The refreshing aroma of the oil can reduce mental stress and exhaustion, which too can go a long way in preventing hair loss.

Ylang-Ylang has a calming effect on the mind and body and is used in cases of frigidity

BY CRYSTALE MAY DE GUIA Better and safer driving are two main purposes of Michael Constantine Imperial in putting up his own driving school way back in the year 2004.

MC Imperial Driving School is located at Brgy. Buhang Taft, Mandurriao, Iloilo City. This driving school aims that every individual driver students will be made more aware of their surroundings and what their car can do to them aside from making them secured in their travels.

W h y s h o u l d we trust M i c h a e l ’s d r i v i n g school?

Michael

and impotence.

Sesame oil is rich and odourless. It is beneficial towards excessive dryness both in external and internal parts of the skin. It is wonderful for preventing nervous disorders, nourishing nervous system, relieving fatigue and insomnia and promoting strength and vitality.

Gotu Kola is a rejuvenative nervine recommended for nervous disorders, epilepsy, senility, and premature aging. As a brain tonic it is said to combat stress and increase libido and improve reflexes.

Started as a medicinal cure for hair damage, Viktorijas has already gone a long way

in giving its customers low-cost hair and body convenience and services. After discovering that the mixture of herbal plants can actually be a cure for simple cosmetic problem especially among women, Viktorijas has developed the eagerness to extend and cater its business to classes at an affordable price.IMT

The Road Master started as a secretary to the renowned driving to drive at the right time of the day or at their school in Iloilo way back 1996. After so many convenient time. years of experience in the field of driving, he At the end of the day, student drivers fear already mastered the skills, the capacity and and phobias were already faced especially to most especially the knowledge in handling the newbie who’s worrying too much of how students, instructors and others who wants to park and how to drive in traffic. to be a professional driver. Michael is a professional driving instructor also. He knows the basic to the more difficult one. He can teach you more than you expected.

According to Michael, his cars used for driving are in a high quality both manual and automatic, that all the student drivers will like, surely.

At MC Imperial Driving School, you learn not only driving but you also learn the correct attitude when you are at the field independently driving your own car.

What is good at this driving school is that they offer a lot of lessons but in a cheaper rate. Each of the student drivers will learn how MC Imperial Driving School Office

Michael’s instructors are also like him, attitude-wise and possess the ability of a defensive driver and mentor on the road.

You will be more than satisfied and successful in just 5-10 days of learning how to drive at MC Imperial Driving School.IMT