ILOILO
the first business newspaper in metro iloilo
metropolitan VOL. I ISSUE NO. 31
developmental news | critical views
times September 1 - 7, 2013
www.iloilometropolitantimes.com
Php 12.00
A dragon boat is a human-powered watercraft-made boat which originated in China and is used in water sports or dragon boat racing to test the teams’ endurance and speed. During the Iloilo City Charter Day, 11 teams, composed of local and national teams, participated for the Second Senator Frank Drilon Cup Dragon Boat Competition held along the clean waters of Iloilo River. PHOTO BY MARY PAULINE BALMES
“Provincial jeepneys banned”
BY MONTESA GRINO-CAOYONAN
The City’s Comprehensive Perimeter Boundary Ordinance (PBO) banning the provincial utility jeepneys from entering the city has already approved by the Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) after majority of its 13 councilors voted in favour of the ordinance during its regular session Tuesday. Among the eight councilors who voted in favour of the ordinance were Plaridel Nava, Rodel Agado, Love Baronda, Lyndon Acap, Armand Parcon, Joshua Alim, Liga ng mga Barangay president Carlos Guarin and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) city federation president Sheen Marie Mabilog. The five other councilors who voted against the ordinane were Jason Gonzales, Eduardo Peñaredondo, Jay Treñas, Liezl Joy Zulueta and R. Leone Gerochi. Although, Lex Tupas is against the ordinance, however, he did not cast his vote because he was presiding the session while Vice Mayor Joe Espinosa III was on vacation leave. Under the comprehensive PBO, only first towns of Oton, Pavia, Leganes and San Miguel could enter the city without any car pass but only have designated slots where they could load and
unload their passengers before going back to its original routes. Peñaredondo, who has been the proponent of the old PBO way back 2002 disagreed the scrapping of car pass system. He said it is better to have a car pass system to make the implementation more effective but Nava, who chairs the Committee on Transportation and proponent of the ordinance said there is no need for car pass system because PUJs are now regulated. Once implemented, public utility jeepneys (PUJs) coming from Oton Anhawan and Oton Derecho jeepneys shall pass through Osmeña Street, Arevalo to Avanceña Street, Molo and upon reaching the Iloilo City Community College, shall make a U-turn to San Pedro, Molo and traverse the same route going to Oton town. The San Miguel PUJs shall pass through R. Mapa Street, Mandurriao, make a left turn towards the Old Airport Road, pass through the Megaworld development site and make a left turn to Q. Abeto Street. Then, they shall pass Western Visayas Medical Center, proceed to the Mandurriao Plaza and back to its same route going to San Miguel. Leganes hi-way PUJs shall pass through
“I am Iloilo”
BY MARY PAULINE BALMES
“I am Iloilo; Proud to be Ilonggo” is now the new marketing slogan of Iloilo City. Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog said that it is important for Ilonggos to come up with identity branding in order for us to develop a sense of pride and ownership. “We want to instill to every Ilonggos the sense of ownership and participatory governance so they become proud to be part of this progressive
Mila’s Hill
city and the making of a vibrant metropolis,” said Mabilog. In order to move forward, Mabilog said awareness should start from oneself. “The appreciation of what Iloilo City is now should start from each Ilonggo. ‘I am Iloilo’ radiates positivity and excitement for Ilonggos about all the grand things the city is heading to,” he added. Mabilog is also acknowledging the I am Iloilo /p9 Mini Hotel
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McArthur Drive, Jaro Plaza, and El 98 Street, and shall make a left turn towards Sen. Benigno Aquino Avenue, passing SM City and make a U-turn at a designated slot back to Leganes via the same route. Leganes La Paz PUJs shall pass through McArthur Drive and Jaro Plaza, and shall make a left turn towards Luna, Jaro, proceed to Commission Civil towards Burgos-Mabini in La Paz district, and return to Leganes via the same route. Pavia hi-way PUJs shall pass through Sen. Benigno Aquino Avenue and upon reaching SM
City, shall make a U-turn at a designated slot and proceed via the same route back to Pavia. Also, Pavia La Paz PUJs shall pass through Sen. Benigno Aquino Avenue and shall make a left turn at El 98 towards Jaro Plaza, turn left to Luna, turn right towards Commission Civil, proceed to Burgos Mabini in La Paz and return to Pavia via the same route. Nava said the comprehensive PBO will take effect 15 days from the last day of publication. He added the PBO will help decongest traffic problem in the city. IMT
No tax exemption for online sellers , says BIR BY REYMAR LATOZA
Online sellers are not exempted from paying taxes according to the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR). BIR reiterated on its new memorandum issued that online sellers are obliged to pay their taxes. According to Internal Revenue commissioner Kim Henares, they are already starting to collect taxes from individuals who doing business online. In a report of PhilStar.com, Henares said the existing tax laws and revenue issuances on the tax treatment of purchases (local or international) of goods (tangible or not) shall apply to all
transactions wherein consumers directly buy goods or services from a seller and an intermediary or third party over the Internet. Therefore, those using online social networks such as Facebook must register as a taxpayer. She added that failure of online sellers to register with the BIR would result in the imposition of appropriate penalties based on the National Internal Revenue Code. Henares further explained that online sellers must issue receipts to every costumer who purchased goods, properties and obtained services. No tax /p9
METRO NEWS
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September 1 - 7, 2013
Renaming Iloilo Coastal Road to Monfort Boulevard BY MONTESA GRIÑO-CAOYONAN The Municipality of Dumangas is proposing to rename the Iloilo Coastal Road into Monfort Boulevard to give honor to the late 4th District Cong. Narciso Monfort who initiated the project when he was still in public service. Dumangas Mayor Rolando Distura said they are now coming up with several documents needed for the proposed renaming before it will be forwarded to the Sangguniang Bayan (SB) members for approval. Distura hopes that it will be approved before the 8th year death anniversary of the late Congressman on September 5. The coastal road which is 25 kilometers
away from Dumangas Port to Iloilo International Port at Loboc, in La Paz district in Iloilo City and other neighboring towns located in central and northern Iloilo has been making transportation very accessible to everyone. Apart from this, the coastal road is considered to be a major lane for commerce and trade after the Dumangas Port has been fully operated in 2007. The Municipality of Dumangas as a first class municipality in the province has been producing rice, fish, sugarcane, vegetables, and fruit commodities, among others. Distura said good transport system and facilities are factors, which contribute, in the socio-economic development of its town. IMT
Nery wins 6th Palanca gold Celebrated Ilonggo writer Peter Solis Nery, who was elevated to the Hall of Fame of the Palanca Awards for Literature last year after winning his fifth first prize at the country’s most prestigious literary competition, continues his winning streak by winning yet again another first prize gold, bringing his current Palanca awards collection total to twelve. Nery, a native of Dumangas, Iloilo and an orthopedic nurse in Los Angeles, Califoria maintains his phenomenal literary ascent with his Hiligaynon short story, “Si Padre Olan kag ang Dios” [“Father Olan and God”], about a priest grappling with the question of God and miracles in the season of El Nino. Asked if he ever plans to slow down, Nery was quick to answer that his Palanca triumphs may dwindle in the future, but he will definitely continue to write for the Ilonggo and Filipino people. “No one should resent my continued Palanca success,” Nery said in a statement. “Instead of envying me, people should just celebrate my good fortune because a victory for Peter Solis Nery is really a triumph for Hiligaynon and Filipino literature. I think that I produce pretty marvelous literature, but I wouldn’t know until it is recognized by such groups as the Palanca. Unlike most writers in this country, I am not connected with the academe, and I feel that my works are largely relegated to the dustbin. So, until
that neglect is corrected, I think that I will just continue to write for contests and recognition.” As a way of giving back to the community, Nery has personally funded The Peter Solis Nery Foundation, which aims to promote, preserve, and propagate Hiligaynon literature, and the arts, by sponsoring literary contests and publishing Hiligaynon works. IMT
Iloilo City sharpens teeth of towing ordinance
BY REYMAR LATOZA
The Iloilo City Council recently approved the proposed amendments to give more teeth on the existing ordinance about the towage and towage service fees on caught and abandoned vehicles parked on public streets, roads, and highways in the city. Authored by Councilor Lyndon Acap, “this ordinance shall be known as an ordinance amending Regulation No. 2002–100, series of 2002, An Ordinance Amending Ordinance No. 40 series of 1983 known as “An Ordinance prohibiting any person responsible for any motor vehicle or trailer damaged in an accident or for any cause a motor vehicle cannot move by its power or to park, repair or to abandon such motor vehicle or trailer on any portion of a public street, road or highway within the territorial jurisdiction of the City of Iloilo when such vehicle poses an obstruction or hazard to the traffic or other motor vehicles or pedestrian and providing for the towage and storage service fees and penalties thereof for any violation.” The section 4 of the said amended ordinance said that “any vehicle parked and left unattended in the public place or street on a no-parking zone for more than 30 minutes is considered abandoned and shall be towed and placed in a storage provided by the entity/corporation which has a joint agreement with the Iloilo City government or to a place chosen by the owner or person legally responsible for the motor vehicle.” “In case of vehicular incident wherein any motor vehicle involved is badly damaged or totally wrecked or failure of its engine for such a period of time and which could lead to obstruct
traffic shall be towed and removed from such portion of public street, road or highways,” the ordinance said. Acap also said the City Government is open to interested private companies for a joint venture agreement. Based on the ordinance, the Iloilo City Government may enter into a joint venture agreement as provided by Section 8 of Excutive Order 423, Repealing Executive Order No. 109A dated September 18, 2003 Prescribing The Rules and Procedure on the Review and Approval of all Government Contracts to conform with Republic Act No. 9184, otherwise known as “The Government Procurement Reform Act”. He added a strict implementation of the ordinance will be observed. The ordinance said that violators shall pay the towage or storage fee for the first five kilometers from the place where the vehicle has to be towed or in excess or fraction thereof an additional P200/KM. The fine for light vehicles with engine displacement of 0 to 1600 cc is P1,200.00. Medium vehicles with engine displacement of 1600 cc to 2801 cc has a fine of P1,500.00. Heavy vehicles with engine displacement of 2801 cc and above, a P2,000.00 fine will be imposed, and the storage fee per day is P200.00. Asked about its effect on the business in Iloilo City, Acap said that business owners should provide parking lots for their customers. “This would also help to decongest traffic in the city,” Acap said. The amended ordinance was approved last August 11. IMT
Photo taken by Elmer Cajilig Newly-elect Dumangas Mayor Rolando Distura wants to review the “compromise agreement” made between former Mayor Ronaldo Golez and Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) in operating the Dumangas port after knowing that only minimal percentage share goes to the town’s fund. MGC/IMT
Distura seeks review on port’s compromise agreement with PPA
BY MONTESA GRIÑO-CAOYONAN
Newly-elect Dumangas Mayor Rolando Distura will review again the “compromise agreement” made between former Mayor Ronaldo Golez and Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) in operating the Dumangas port after knowing that only minimal percentage share goes to the fund of Local Government Unit (LGU) of the said town. Distura said the port earned P43, 685 per day or P15. 7 million a year from 19 trips made by six vessels which are owned by three shipping companies of Tri-Star, Montenegro and Millenium since the port started its operation in 2007. The mayor, however, said out of the said earnings, only P100, 000 were remitted to the municipal treasurer’s office in the past threeyear of its operations. “The share they gave to the municipality could not compensate the situation we are suffering and experiencing right now particularly the damages on provincial and municipal roads, traffic accidents and even the perception of the public that the port is made to be the entry point for illegal drugs”, he said. Distura also said his review will focus more on how they could get a higher percentage share from the port operation or if not will take back the port management. In fact, the mayor said he had already opened-up this problem to Ilonggo Sen. Franklin Drilon and the Senate President has already instructed him to provide several important documents so they could tackle it on their next meeting two weeks from now. The mayor recalled that in 2007, the Regional Trial Court (RTc) ruled a decision that the Dumangas LGU has the power and
authority to operate the port. The authority, however, was set aside after Golez claimed that the town has no capacity to operate pending the incoming funds from the national government. Under the compromise agreement, the PPA will manage temporarily the port until the Municipality of Dumangas has no capacity to operate. It was also stated that while PPA is managing the port, people of Dumangas can work in the port and the municipality will have a percentage from any collection. Also as agreed, the Dumangas Municipal Council will be informed by the PPA of whatever happened to their agreement. However, several former members of the Sangguniang Bayan (SB) claimed that they were deceived by their very own Mayor when he entered into the said agreement. According to former SB Member Dale Azucena, the Mayor announced to the body that there will be millions of pesos coming from the national government to fund the improvement of the port but if Dumangas will handle the improvement, the said fund will not be given to them. Azucena said they don’t know if a percentage is given to their municipality and they are clueless on the update of the port operation. “It is a clear manifestation that this administration deceived the Municipal Council and people of this town. There was even no consultation and approval from us,” he said in previous interview. Azucena added that since the authority to operate the port was already given to them, why they will still let the PPA administer the port. IMT
A total of 223 applicants were hiredon-the-spot during the jobs fair organized by the Public Employment Service Office (PESO) highlighting the recent Charter Day anniversary of Iloilo City. In a report to Mayor Jed Patrick E. Mabilog, PESO manager Ma. Elena Benitez said there were 175 lucky job seekers who immediately got hired for local employment while 48 were assured of jobs abroad. “The city government is always giving every Ilonggo an opportunity to find work
through the regular conduct of job fairs even as we prepare our skilled workers to face new challenges by providing free trainings at the Technical Institute of Iloilo City to enhance their knowledge and skills,” Mabilog stressed. The Charter Day jobs fair gathered 1,333 applicants who tried their luck in 48 agencies that participated. “With the strong support of our local chief executive, we are always finding ways to close the unemployment gap in the city,” Benitez said. PNA
Three teachers and a nurse were named winners of the first Peter Solis Nery Prize for Literature. Dr. Jesus Insilada, who teaches English and Literature at Alcarde Gustilo Memorial National High School in Calinog, Iloilo, won first prize in the Binalaybay sang Paghigugma [Love Poetry] category, while Early Sol Gadong, who teaches Advanced Algebra and Trigonometry at UP High School in Iloilo City, was named grand champion of the Labing Malip-ut nga Sugilanon [Very Short Story] competition. Both will be awarded a specially crafted Peter’s Prize medallion, and will be commissioned as the 2013 Peter Solis Nery Foundation’s literary ambassadors for poetry and fiction, respectively. Other winners include Michael de la Pena,
a newly registered nurse from Dumangas, Iloilo and Denmark Sonza Molina, an elementary school teacher at Tugas Elementary School in Sta. Barbara, Iloilo, who won the second and third prizes in the love poetry contest, respectively. Sponsored by The Peter Solis Nery Foundation for Hiligaynon Literature and the Arts, Inc., both contests were initiated to encourage literature production, and to discover new literary voices, in the region. All winners and judges of the 2013 Peter’s Prize will be honored with a banquet at the Al Dente Restaurant in the Sarabia Manor Hotel and Convention Center complex on September 7, where medallions, certificates, and cash prizes will be awarded by Palanca Hall of Famer and the PSN Foundation’s CEO Peter Solis Nery. IMT
Over 200 hired-on-the-spot at Iloilo City Charter Day jobs fair
Peter’s Prize winners named
September 1 - 7, 2013
METRO BUSINESS
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Rapid transit and more pasalubong centers for Iloilo -IBC
BY KHARIZA JOY SOFIA
The still on-going road construction and road widening along Lapaz and Diversion road has seen to cause problems for temporary business and vendors according to Iloilo Business Club
(IBC) executive director Maria Lea Victoria Lara. Lara said that the challenge is how to park along these areas because it has not been really clear on where the designated parking areas are. She added that the solution they are trying to
Indie film ‘Ilo Ilo’ helps boost Iloilo’s tourism
BY MONTESA GRIÑO-CAOYONAN
The premiere award winning indie film “Ilo Ilo” in Singapore which carries the story of an Ilongga nanny in the person of Teresita “Aunty Terry Sajonia of San Miguel, Iloilo has become a tourism marketing venue in promoting the city and province of Iloilo. DOT-6 director Atty. Helen Catalbas who left for Singapore Friday last week along with Sajonia’s group said the film has promoted Iloilo during the premiere awarding on August 24. “It really helps promote our tourism and making a name for Iloilo. Those who watched the film were curious about Iloilo and even eager to go here”, Catalbas said as she arrived Iloilo Monday. She said the 57-year-old Sajonia has been the inspiration of the film which was hailed in the Cannes Film Festival in May. The film is directed by Anthony Chen, one of the sons of Sajonia’s former boss 16 years ago
when she worked there as a nanny for eight years. In fact, Anthony and his brother Christopher even came to Iloilo to personally visit and express their gratitude to Sajonia. During the meetings, it was an emotional moment for all who were present thereat. Ilo Ilo film the first Singaporean to win the Camera d’Or Prize (best first film), the top award for a feature film. The film chronicles the relationship between a young Singaporean boy (Chen) and his Filipina nanny (Sajonia). Before Sajonia left Iloilo bound for Singapore, she is excited how much of the story would resemble the real events in her life with former employer, considering that Anthony was only 8 years old when she left Singapore to go back in the Philippines. Anthony only based the movie on his recollection of her former nanny. IMT
LTO to distribute modern license plate
BY KHARIZA JOY SOFIA
Land Transportation Office (LTO) will begin distributing new license plates to all registered brand new vehicles and renewal this September as the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) awarded the contract for the P3-billion license plate standardization project to a Dutch company and its Filipino partner. Anuel S. Bonite, LTO Region-6 OICAssistant Regional Director, said that they will start to distribute plates with the latest alphanumeric design effective September 1, 2013. The plate design includes a more legible font and comes with stainless security locks to attach the plate to the vehicle. Motor vehicle plates now have three letters and four-number combination while motorcycle plates will have two letters and a five-number combination. Bonite said that the plates will have laseretched bar codes, which will help identify the chassis number and engine number of the said vehicle, reflective sheeting material that will allow license plate visibility even from wideentrance angles and up to 100-feet distance and anodized bolt head screws and nuts with serial number to prevent tampering and removal of the license plates once installed. The coded routes of franchised public utility vehicles are also indicated on the bottom of the license plates. “The plates have bar codes for security
purposes. When scanned, we can already identify the chassis number and engine number of that vehicle. It has also the presence of the third plate sticker”, Bonite said. He added private vehicles will have a black-and-white design; black font and white background, which is similar to plates in countries around Europe and Singapore. Public vehicles will come in black font and yellow background while government vehicles will come in red font and white background. LTO executive director Alfonso Tan said that each pair of plates for motor vehicles will cost P450 while plates for motorcycles will cost P120. Furthermore, LTO will implement the said program in accordance with the existing staggered system of motor vehicle registration based on the last and middle digits of the plate number. Motor vehicle owners are required to replace their license plate upon renewal. The dimensions of the new plates for motor vehicles would still be the same as the old plates; 390 mm by 140 mm, while those for motorcycles; 225 mm by 105 mm, would be bigger by 5 mm in height and width from the old plates. The new security features will promote safety and reliability in accordance with international standards and prevent tampering, theft, and falsification of license plates, curb carjacking, colorum vehicles, and smuggling cars. IMT
Transpo workshops among drivers to strengthen tourism dev’t
BY MARY PAULINE BALMES
THE Department of Tourism (DOT) Region 6 gathered tourism-related agencies and public organizations to come up with better and profound ideas on the new tourism promotion program “Cruise and Drive.” DOT regional director Helen Catalbas pushes for more transportation facilities and training workshops especially among public utility and taxi drivers. Catalbas said the new tourism program will attract more foreign and domestic tourists to explore the region thru the roll-on roll-off facilities and land transport. Present during the brainstorming workshop were representatives of different national government agencies, tourism stakeholders, provincial and municipal tourism officers, and from the transport sector. The team identified possible factors that should be considered in the program such as routes and along-the-way tourist destinations, accommodations and dining establishments as well as marketing and promotion strategies. Catalbas said other parts of regions with the
exemption of Aklan, lack accredited tourists vans and buses, of which such transportation facilities play a vital role in the tourism industry. Situations like these will either hassle tourists in terms of time and effort or discourage them to come due to higher transportation fees. “The Cruise and Drive program will assure tourists that there would be tourists transports in the region that they could take for cheaper price and whose very purpose is to bring them to tourist destinations they would like to see, Catalbas said. DOT will also train and regulate establishments to make sure that they meet the tourism standard and encourage roro companies to maintain cleanliness with their facilities and make sure it is tourism-friendly. Results of the brainstorming will be submitted to the WV Regional Development Council for policy support and to make sure that it is part of the development program for the region. Currently, there is an on-going enrolment among taxi drivers for a training workshop at the DOT office. IMT
provide is to team-up with the Local Government Unit (LGU) to come up with a comprehensive vendor management. “Maybe we can think about pay-parking, which has been tried before. They can offer it to lot owners who have no plans to put up a building on their lots”, Lara said. Lara added that she cannot see the city improving with jeepneys alone. For once, jeepneys have harmful effects on the environment. She further added that developing countries look at the possibilities of rapid transit or bus transit and biking so as to have a livable community. “Iloilo city is a small place where we can put up biking for easy access”, she explained. Lara also expressed that ‘trisikads’ must also complement with the tourist areas. She said these
transport vehicle should also have decorations but not too fancy. Furthermore, she explained that livelihood assistance should also be extended to make crafts of the city, especially for pasalubong centers. She said that the city lack souvenir vendors. “You know engraved keychains are really best-sellers among tourists, as well as outdoor bags”, she stated. Lara said that through these items, we can equip tourists to value us and show them our community and be remembered as one of the best places they have been when they went for vacation. She admits that there are still more rooms for improvement but the good thing is, the rooms are already identified and solutions are being given. IMT
A children’s playground will soon rise at the 2,500 square-meter public land formerly encroached by Marina Restaurant along the Senator Benigno Aquino III Avenue popularly known as the diversion road. City mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog suggested to transform the area into a children’s playground as an expansion of the Esplanade II as the Department of Public Works and Highways is currently finishing Esplanade II and slope protection works along the Iloilo River amounting to P33.9 million. DPWH Reg. Dir. Eduardo Tayao assured the city mayor of the children’s playground project inclusion in the plan which also includes an underground pedestrian lane from the Esplanade going to the other side of the diversion road. Tayao said the underground pedestrian lane is expected to be finished in time for the completion of the
widening and improvement of two road projects along the diversion road by end of December 2013. The road project at the diversion road is divided into two phases. One is the widening from Iloilo Bridge to Tabucan, San Rafael Road by contractor GEO Transport with an allocation of P96 million. The other one is the road widening project from Tabucan, San Rafael to Jalandoni St. in Jaro district with an allocation of P88.59 million by contractor F. Gurrea Construction. PNA
Children’s playground to rise at Esplanade
METRO TOURISM Pottery Making in Miagao: True to Tradition
BY BOMBETTE G. MARIN
Travel to Barangay Cagbang in Miagao, Iloilo to try your hands in making clay pieces like mini pots and jars, pendants, vases or beads under the guidance of local potters that have never stopped turning all their pieces by hand. There is even a workshop where you can test your own pottery-making skills with your clay ready. The barangay has long been the cradle of Miagao’s good quality clay pots. Traditional pottery making in the area starts with the gathering the clay from natural deposits. They go through pounds and pounds of natural clay weekly, normally dug at the back of their houses. The clay is then packed in thick paper cement bags or dried banana leaves and carried back to their homes to be worked into pottery. Before the potter could begin forming the clay, potters had to remove any hard, non-clay items, such as pebbles or twigs. The traditional process required adding water to the clay and then kneading the body using their bare feet for a long time to remove all inconsistencies making sure it is smooth and with even texture. Then they shape the clay body using basic traditional tools that include the wheel and turntable; shaping tools such as a paddle, rolling tools cutting and piercing tools. Pottery is made by forming a clay body into objects of desired shapes. The figures are then dried. Before heating the objects, they are covered with fried hay then heat them to high temperatures. Baking normally lasts for 3 hours. For pots, a finishing tool such as a burnishing stone or a “Bato Bantiling” is used. Clays had been pumping through their veins and hands many centuries ago. And many generations of potters in the barangay have passed down the craft from its humble beginnings all the way to today. Though the pottery has made some concessions to modernity, including electric turning wheels and enormous gasfueled ovens, most of them have no part of pot-making machines. In August 11 of this year, potters have organized themselves as the Cagbang Association of Potters and are composed of 22 active members headed by Mr. Edgardo Reyes. Members are now making flower vases, ashtrays, paperweights, trinkets, showpieces, decorative figures and mini tea sets that can be offered as gifts to the loved ones and can be used for interior decoration. Pottery art is the traditional of all art forms. Many of the world’s civilizations have left indelible marks of their art and culture through their art of pottery. Ancient potteries with rustic shapes and coarse textures are heritage pieces that make for ethnic decorations. The Terracotta objects, clay artifacts and glazed potteries are some popular antique pottery items. Though pottery making has changed over the years, and the process of pottery making has been modernized in some ways, two things have remained constant down the generations: the passion family members show for their craft and the hard work they commit to it. Barangay Cagbang is situated 7 kilometers from the town center or a 20-minuter tricycle ride. For more information, please contact Mr. Arli John Nim-Municipal Tourism Officer at 09328748314 or Mr. Edgardo Reyes, President, Cagbang Association of Potters at 09052026543 or 09996535809. See more of their potteries on exhibit at the Miagao both for the 9th Tumandok on September 18-21 at the fountain area of Robinsons Place-Iloilo.
September 1 - 7, 2013
METRO ENTREPRENEUR
Swacky Prints On the Go BY MARY PAULINE BALMES Photobooth business has been a fad among celebrations nowadays- may it be weddings, birthdays or corporate and school events. Who wouldn’t love it, right? With every picture printed from the machine is equivalent to a lifetime memory of one’s’ enjoyment in celebrating life with friends, family and loved ones. Swacky Prints is one proof why this kind of business remains successful. For Mr. Ray Norman Madayag and his wife Ma. Liza, more than the financial aspects that they get to gain from the business, the satisfactory feedbacks about their services and the feeling of happiness that they could share to their customers are far more important. The Madayag couple started Swacky Prints last 2009 out of an idea from their friend’s wedding in Luzon. It officially became a business in 2010 after several experiments were tested to their relatives and friends’ special occasions. At first, the couple were hesitant due to the conservative nature of the Ilonggo market. However, they pushed through it not knowing what will happen. They took the risk. You think it’s all easy? Well, the couple said
WEESAM EXPRESS
ILOILO - BACOLOD - ILOILO DEPARTURES 6:30 am 8:10 am 9:50 am 11.30 am
1:10 pm 2:50 pm 4:45 pm
it is a yes and a no. (All charges in) With Ray Norman as FARE: One Way the Graphic Artist, it became Non-aircon (W3 only) P250 ECO. aircon P340 easy for them to put up FC. aircon P435 the business knowing that ROUND TRIP PROMO aircon P585 they only need a minimal ECO. FC. aircon P665 manpower. They started up Schedule subject to change without prior notice. with a capital of about Php For details please call: 250,000.00 investing more on ILOILO (033)337-3282 / 09228660338 BACOLOD (034)709-0630, 433-9125 the equipment. Plus, they don’t through video greetings. need an office. But with this business, anything Also, one unique feature of this business is can happen in the middle of an event- most their Volkswagen Kombi Van, which they used prevalent of these situations are brownouts, during their wedding, is where they assemble changing in power that could damage the their equipment and which serves as the photo equipment, and printer errors. That is why they booth. would be extra careful and prepared whenever For would-be entrepreneurs and beginners, they have events to attend to. They also keep the couple encourages them to start off their themselves updated with the innovations of the machines and equipment that they use, upgrading them from time to time. Now, aside from the photo booth, Swacky prints offers a unique experience of celebrating an event thru video booth wherein invited guests, friends and family can greet the celebrators or express how they enjoy the event
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Contact us at 09173196378 or 508-5051. Email us at sales@iloilometropolitantimes.com Head Office: Suite 1, 3rd floor, Cristina Colonnade, Cor. Huervana, Rizal St.,Brgy Laguda, La Paz, Iloilo City www.iloilometropolitantimes.com
businesses by taking the risks and be prepared for everything that may happen. For them, it’s a roller coaster ride and one needs to be optimistic in order to succeed. For inquiries, you may contact them thru 09228566088 or 396 6181, email them at swackyprints@gmail.com or visit their FB page at http://facebook.com/swackyprints.IMT
METRO OPINION
6 EDITORIAL
T
Educate our cops again
hese past few weeks, news about the alleged harassment to the Aksyon Radyo Iloilo personnel by some members of the Iloilo City Police Office’s Special Weapon and Tactics (SWAT) team last 2:13 am of August 25 has been a subject of public scrutiny due to their austere actions as viewed from the closed circuit television (CCTV) camera at the Carlos Uy Building, Diversion Road, Mandurriao. The raid happened after the SWAT got information on a group of armed men that allegedly entered the station. These men were reportedly involved in a commotion at the nearby night bar along Smallville area that left five wounded youngsters. Later, these wounded youngsters were turned out to be the victims who sought help from the said station. We in Iloilo Metropolitan Times, in union with other media organizations and media support groups, express our dismay to what could have been a properly conducted operation. Accumulated standpoints of media support groups are as follows: Iloilo Press Club (IPC) president Francis Allan Angelo, National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) national director Nestor Burgos and NUJP-Iloilo chairman Bert Ladera have issued a statement in Monday, denouncing the act of the SWAT operatives. “We find such show of force uncalled for and completely unnecessary since the (radio) personnel already submitted themselves voluntarily to the raiding team. They are not even suspects in a crime as the police would like to portray. It was even the station personnel who called the police for assistance and later explained that the young men who sought refuge in the building were unarmed and suffered gunshot wounds which needed immediate medical treatment,” said the statement. The statement added that the incident inside AksyonRadyo is reminiscent of Martial Law era raids and lockdown of media outlets which have no place in a civil and democratic society. Such deplorable actions translate to virtual attacks on freedom of the press and can be considered violations of human rights as a whole. The IPC and NUJP called on the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), Commission on Human Rights (CHR), National Police Commission (Napolcom) and People’s Law Enforcement Board to conduct an immediate, full, and impartial investigation and enforce appropriate sanctions against the SWAT personnel involved. Noni Basco, president of Iloilo Police and Defense Press Corps (IPDPC) said they are strongly condemning in maximum sense the actions taken by the members of the SWAT who stormed the office of Aksyon Radyo -Iloilo. “We are united in calling for a speedy and fair investigation of the higher PNP command regarding the incident”, he said. On her part, Elena Pabiona, president of the Iloilo Capitol Press Corps (ICPC) said her group also strongly condemns the harassment, grave abuse of authority and unlawful search done by the SWAT. She added the press corps supports the criminal and administrative charges to be filed by the management of Aksyon Radyo against the SWAT team. “We suggest to ICPO director Ruperto Floro to again reorient the members of SWAT on the proper training on raids or standard operating procedure (SOP) to avoid further harassment not only to media practitioner but also to civilians and ordinary citizens”, Pabiona said. Policemen are supposed to protect as from harmful elements and we won’t tolerate such actions from them. Thus, a rigid investigation should be done so as to determine what corresponding penalty will be given.
In our Country S quatters are free to occupy
government lots or privately owned lots, and when demolition comes, they will be prioritized in the “no relocation, no demolition” policy of the government. Celebrity couples hop from one marriage to another and are easily granted with nullification of marriage in just months of petition while ordinary couples struggle for years to nullify just one marriage. Varsity players don’t enter classes but since they play for the university flag, they easily get passing grades compared to those who burn their midnight candles to obtain college diplomas. Professional cagers are paid with millions for just playing, playing and playing. Perks also include
sizeable bonuses, championship incentives, on-call personal physicians and therapists and many heavenly offers. Laborers, on the contrary, get the opposite or even the worst for building bridges, drainages, and even gymnasiums of these players. Recruitment agencies get free government support on jobs fair without paying anything for the government, but other establishments that pay bigger taxes and employ many breed winners get the contrary. While it is true that they employ people, theirs are also business. College graduates who work in the government are required to get civil service eligibility and seldom get travel incentives from the government, but high school graduates, as long as they get elected in the barangays obtain automatic eligibility qualifications. Priests have virtual license to embarrass people inside the church while church-goers are berated from mere failure to recite the responsorial psalm. Dog breeders are not taxed but “balot” vendors are required to do so. Centavos have no BIR value as in the case of non-taxable fund-
Pork Barrel P “
o r k
barrel”, according to Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary, is “a government project or appropriation yielding rich patronage benefits.” In the previous administrations, our country’s pork barrel was named a Countrywide Development Fund or CDF. Recently, it was named PDAF or Priority Development Assistance Fund. Now, Congress in cooperation with the President wants to abolish this PDAF, while indignant citizens at random marched to Luneta last August 26 to voice their protestation against PDAF and all its form. My perception may be wrong, but on one point of view, Congress wants to abolish PDAF because it does not want to associate itself with the negative connotation that this name brings now. With the recent P10-billion scandal on how this PDAF was spent and went into the wrong hands, PDAF now seems to be synonymous with corruption. It also seems to mean bad faith in appropriating public funds. Can we ever find a person elected in Congress who wants to be re-elected in the next election who will ever want to be scrutinized on how he or she spent his or her PDAF? This is an issue that can never be avoided now and in the upcoming elections. The people will hold them accountable. But to face now the issue squarely
will help one save his or her face. On another point, this is a good step for an ideal governance, in a presidential form of government. Congress is the maker of laws, and it is the President, the Executive, that executes them. Funded projects approved by Congress are implemented by the Executive. And Congress is not supposed to have projects and funds for these projects that are supposed to be left to the Executive. If the Executive fails to accordingly implement these funded projects, then Congress can use its upperhand to punish the Executive in the next budget hearing. But President Noynoy Aquino, however, admitted that his post cannot do it all. This is, somehow, an admission on his part that the Executive Department, unfortunately, needs improvement, needs help, or needs some other executives other than the executives in the local government units. So he still wants Congress to have its pork barrel – giving its members some executive function: implementing their respective pet projects duly funded for their identified beneficiaries, with certain mechanisms now that will hopefully eradicate any taint of corruption that can be associated with it. This is a good news for Congress and the recipients of its pork barrel. But this good news is true only to those who are aligned with the administration, for obvious reasons. Those in the opposition will have to brace themselves for tough times ahead of them. With this development, it would appear to be difficult for any opposition leader in Congress who plans to run for the Executive post to poise himself or herself to such higher position with the use of his or her pork barrel. The good times for such opposition leader to freely move around the country to be close with the electorate with promising “rich patronage benefits” are now over. This would be a thousand leap in favour of the administration would-be candidate for the highest post of the land. This is one political opportunity in favour of the administration. The scorecard is up for the administration in the next
September 1 - 7, 2013
raising tickets and the goods’ centavo component, but if 90 million Filipinos have 10 centavos each, it’s a hefty sum of 9 million pesos. If the accumulated amount is taxed, it’s money in the bag. Senior citizens enjoy great discounts but are unlucky enough to enjoy the privileges for a long time. Government issues postal I.D.’s but are seldom honored in business transactions. Government lots are not for sale, but they are for free board and lodging of informal settlers. Prostitution is recognized, but is a non-taxable occupation. Minors have no criminal obligations under the penal laws but their parents are obliged to pay for their fares under our transport laws. Disabled persons enjoy the privileges of law but unfortunate enough to enjoy the privileges of life. Lie detector tests are administered to suspected liars by government liars themselves. Messing around marriage is a violation of law, but marriage itself is not required by law.
presidential derby. This, however, is not without setbacks to the administration. Having all the funds in its hands for public purpose, it should make itself transparent in the implementation of its projects, whether such projects are small or big. The electorate needs to see it performs well. The electorate needs to see that their taxes are spent for meaningful projects that help uplift their lives. The administration should make itself readily accountable to the people, ready to be scrutinized, ready to be evaluated. Otherwise, this administration will be punished by the most effective and powerful weapon of the people – their voting power - in the next elections. Come what may. But the declaration of our President that public funds will no longer be diverted to non-government organizations is contrary to his previous pronouncements as to his need for public-private partnerships (PPP) for national welfare and development. This is also a sweeping statement that appears to hurt many outstanding non-government organizations in the country. Some of these organizations have been entrusted with foreign government funds to implement projects in our country. Sadly, our President himself no longer trusts them, just because there exist bogus non-government organizations in our country that have been used as channels to divert and misuse the P10-billion funds from PDAF. I think our President and Congress should not get rid of opportunities - but provide for more - for good and outstanding nongovernment organizations. Because, with them, there is a rich benefit this country can have. In getting rid of the pork barrel or in wanting to retain it, the main objective and sole consideration must be to bring rich benefits to the Filipino nation, and not a rich patronage benefits to our politicians and would-be Executives - although the name “pork barrel” itself speaks for such patronage benefits. # ***Send feedback to: arnoldcares@yahoo.com
September 1 - 7, 2013
METRO OPINION
Entomophagy is It T
ravelling often to Indonesia, Cambodia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore, I am always fascinated by the variety of live and cooked insects that I observe being sold by street and wet market vendors for food. It may be unsettling for the Western people to see terrestrial arthropods and insects in our diets but this is getting more normal for us in Asia. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), there are about 1,462 species of recorded edible insects. Some of the more popular ones eaten around the world include grasshoppers, crickets, ants, cicadas, beetle grubs, rhinoceros beetle, silkworms, wax worms, bamboo worms, scorpions, termites, dragonflies, spiders, water bugs, bees, wasps, cockroaches, and tarantulas. Human insect-eating or entomophagy is common to many cultures in the world. In Ecuador, for instance, white beetles are eaten with pork and vegetables. A tribe in the Andes of South America collects dryopoid beetles, dries and grinds them up, and uses them as a spicy
A
side from receiving your Palanca award this year, what are your incentives for coming to the Philippines? I have timed my yearly vacation to the Philippines every August and September since 2007 because of the annual Palanca awards night on September 1. I think that I have deeply intuited that I will be a perennial winner after 2006. Haha! And true to form, I have consecutive Palanca wins, sometimes multiple awards in a single year, since 2006, except for 2009. But even then, I was invited to the Palanca awards ceremony. So, for seven consecutive years now, I have been a permanent fixture at the Palanca night at the Peninsula Manila. With my induction to the Hall of Fame last year, I no longer need to win to be invited to the annual event. I have earned my perennial free pass. Haha! As for the other incentives, well, you know that aside from my family in Dumangas, I still have my fans and friends in Iloilo City and the whole Western Visayas. My vacation is also my time to meet my
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food additive. In Australia, Oecophylla (ants) and Witchetty grubs are eaten as bush food. Mopane worm which comes from the caterpillar of a moth in South Africa is source of food protein. In Jinan, China, street vendors sell fried silkworm pupae. Insect-eating, however, is uncommon or a cultural taboo in some societies. According to public health nutritionist Alan Dangour, large-scale entomophagy in Western culture faces “extremely large” barriers, which are “perhaps currently even likely to be insurmountable.” Entomophagy divides the insects into two categories: those which are sources of nutrients and those used as condiments. Some insects are eaten in their larval stage while others are consumed as pupae or adults. The escalating cost of animal protein, food and feed insecurity, environmental pressures, population growth and increasing demand for protein are very relevant today. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations per se has underscored the contribution of insects to food security. It considers the farming of insects and edible arthropods for human food to be a more eco-friendly alternative to
traditional animal husbandry. Aside from protein, insects are natural sources of fats, minerals, carbohydrates, vitamins, and lysine. They also produce 10 times less methane and 100 times less nitrous oxide than livestock and are metabolically much more efficient, making them a lot cheaper to raise. I was in Thailand recently and I saw some small, medium, and large-scale cricket farms operated by individual farmers and community cooperatives. The 20,000 farms have nearly 218,000 breeding tanks and produce about 8,000 tons of crickets every year. Meanwhile, in Cambodia, I observed pest harvesting for food as common practice among many rural folks. Locusts, grubs, and ants are sold abundantly in Phnom Penh and Sihanoukville. So that these insects are not contaminated by poisons, there is decreasing tendency in pesticides spraying among farmers. Realistically speaking, all of us have eaten insects at some time in our lives. In fact, stats show that our capita consumption of insects is at least 500 grams. When we eat rice, we also ingest significant numbers of rice weevil (Sitophilus oryzae) larvae. We also eat ants that creep their way
into pastries, candies, grains, sugar, and other staples. With the current preference for organically produced foods, it does not seemingly matter anymore if there are eggs, larvae, pupa, and adults remaining in our consumed vegetables. It is a lot safer to eat insects that give us protein rather than get toxins from pesticide-sprayed produce. Most of us have heard about the worm-like mollusk called tamilok. This one is truly indigenous in the Philippines and is very abundant in mangroves especially in Palawan. Tamiloks are covered in mucus and are typically white with patches of dark brown or black. They thrive within the woods and the collected worms are placed into bowls and eaten raw after dipping them into vinegar with slices of lemon, salt, and soy sauce. For the courageous ones, you just pick a live tamilok, dip it into vinegar, bring it into your mouth, and swallow the wriggling worm. It may not happen in the immediate term, but keep your attention open while enjoying your food in a restaurant. Who knows, someone might soon bark this command, “Waiter, waiter! Please add some more flies to my soup.” Bon appétit.
public, and often, I take the opportunity to meet new people, especially students who have only heard, or read, about me.
public comes in after 10pm, and buy their own drinks and dinner. I know that I’ll be staying there for as long as there are people who would want to meet me, or fans who would like to buy autographed copies of my books. “Kakunyag” will be on sale for P800 a copy, and “Stories” at P1,200. Only 15 copies of each will be sold, so people can text me at 0918.285.1673 for reservations.
finding co-sponsors. So anyway, if there are at least five takers, I’ll probably make a go of it for a registration fee of P1,000 per participant. I’m looking at Sunday, September 8; or Sunday, September 15 as possible dates. Interested parties can contact me at 0918.285.1673 for updates and inquiries.
Have you scheduled workshops during this trip?
Rest and relaxation, if that is possible at all. But knowing me, I’ll be up, around, and running most of the time. I don’t know. I just feel compelled to share, and serve, and give back to the community. But wait, I think that there is something that I really would consider very special to do in Iloilo. I’d like to meet Archbishop Angel Lagdameo. I don’t think that we have been personally introduced. But I’d really like to meet him, if only to give him a copy of my book “Stories in a Mellifluous Language,” where my Palanca gold-winning story “Si Padre Olan kag ang Dios” is included. As I have previously announced, Monsignor Angel has a very important cameo in that first prize-winning story.
Is there any particular Peter Solis Nery event people should know about? The most important event will be the 2013 Peter’s Prize for Literature Awards Night at the Al Dente Restaurant in the Sarabia Manor Hotel and Convention Center complex on September 7 for The Peter Solis Nery Foundation. The winners of our online contests for Very Short Story, and Love Poetry, will be awarded their prizes; and the people who have helped the Foundation on its first year will be treated to a banquet. At this event, we will also officially launch the two books published by the Foundation in 2012: “Stories in a Mellifluous Language,” a 12-story collection of my mostly awardwinning short fiction; and “Kakunyag,” the 100 erotic sonnets in the original Hiligaynon. Unfortunately, the awards ceremony is a private event from 7pm to 10pm. But I’m pretty sure that Al Dente will welcome business if the
any
In service to the Filipino people, I have been conducting lectures and workshops in writing, acting, filmmaking, and theatre during my annual vacation. This year, I have two invitations for lectures in literature and creative writing for schools in Iloilo City, and we are working out two theatre and performing arts workshops for the local high school, and college, in my home town of Dumangas. But what I’d really like to do is the “How to Write Awardwinning Works” seminar-workshop with an optional soiree with writers for the paying public. Because I am not based in Iloilo, I still have a hard time
Is there any special thing you want to do during this vacation?
Janet Lim-Napoles: a reading of some sorts I
am tired of Janet Lim-Napoles. While the writer in me is proud of what the Philippine Daily Inquirer is doing for the country, I am also tired of them hiding behind sources and affidavitsin-absentia. I am so bored of how PDI targets opposition legislators without naming the administration people involve. I am also not surprised of Napoles’ surrender to the President himself. It only cemented the suspicion that Napoles is actually an administration asset out to discredit the political opposition. Of all people, it is the president of the nation whom Napoles has bravely sought refuge to submit herself to a make believe campaign for a matuwid na daan. I am no opposition fan. I do not like the Estrada’s and Binay’s either. Mayor Joseph Ejercito Estrada is a pardoned plunderer. Binay on his part is attempting to project himself as the new man of the masses. I am tempted
to believe until he fielded his daughter Senator Nancy Binay in the senate. The recent turn of events and the bigtime expose on the Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) or popularly known as pork barrel fund of the members of the Philippine Congress is actually not a testimony of the administration’s campaign for good governance. It is simply a political drama with a conflict between the administration and the opposition. Give it three more years, Janet Lim-Napoles will be hailed as a hero or worst Napoles will be appointed in the Department of Budget and Management or elected as a senator or congresswoman. Such is not a far-fetched possibility. It is a known fact that Filipinos are sentimental people and are the kind of race who would glorify crooks and make them heroes and leaders. Ours is a culture of corruption and political immaturity. Show us the money! and we will make you a
senator. Show us that you’re handsome and Bingo! we will make you a member of the House of Representatives. Make us believe that you are so kawawa or kinawawa and tomorrow you will become our hero. Of course it’s too early yet to predict and forecast the political plans of Napoles. Today, we can only think of the living examples of our political (im)maturity. They are the likes of the handsome Senators Bong Revilla and Lito Lapid; Senators Gringo Honasan and Antonio Trillanes; Mayor Joseph Estrada and Senator Jinggoy Estrada and yes PNoy himself. PNoy became president because of the pity and the sadness of the Filipino people who were mourning the death of her mother the late President Corazon Aquino. He may have made some good marks but his or his’ political allies delusion of the political landscape comes 2016 has produced a Transformer in the pork barrel and Napoles.
On August 26 the awakened Filipino people protested in the streets the pork barrel. Now what? Days before the march of the netizens and some “politically conscious” Filipinos, PNoy announced the scrapping of the PDAF. Now what? The president declared he will make the culprits answer. Now what? Can he afford to have Senate President Franklin Drilon and Secretary Mar Roxas investigated? Ah yes, they are not involved. In short they are perfect. I hope we Filipinos can petition Vatican and have them elevated to sainthood the soonest after the Creator ends the cords of their lives. Their miracle? They have perfected their crime and were not included in the Napoles scam. And Napoles has surrendered. Now what? As a post-script, I would like to provide an answer. Let’s wait for 2016 and the cycle will move. Napoles will be forgotten. The culture of corruption continues.
cl assified ads
September 1 - 7, 2013
METRO AGRICULTURE
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Badiangan Tahu: The Sweet-Hot Pride of the Ilonggos BY BOMBETTE G. MARIN
Instant Ginger Tea, has remained pure and true to his historical beginnings of preserving the rich tradition of making old-time ginger tea. His passion dates back to 1970 when he started doing his research on growing ginger and its many uses. Mr. Aguilar soon developed Badiangan Tahu Instant Ginger Tea in the mid 1970’s and it became so in demand that the local folks simply could not get enough of his delightful tea. He quickly worked on having his product
patented. Now, Badiangan Tahu Instant Ginger Tea, Philippines Patent UM 2460 is the only patented ginger tea in the whole Philippines. This would mean that his product is wholesome and super high quality. The town has its Ginger Growers and Producers Cooperative that was organized with Mr. Aguilar as its founding president. The “Original” Badiangan Tahu by Mr. Aguilar is an impressive display of what happens when you take quality ingredients and let their natural flavor take center stage. In this case, you have got a formulation that relies heavily on the flavor of the fresh peeled ginger that goes into each pack. Presently, it has with sugar and sugar-free varieties. Drinking tahu regularly is medicinal. Badiangan Tahu uses the whole fresh root so that it can better capture the health benefits of ginger which includes: (a) alleviating nausea – ginger tea is often taken for motion sickness and morning sickness; (b) helping digestion – drinking ginger tea can calm the stomach and attack toxins in food that might cause stomach upset or illness; (c) fighting colds. Drinking ginger tea is also good for women’s health. Ginger is a low-growing tropical plant
which is easily grown. It grows up to 4 feet high with alternate, thin, green leaves up to 7 inches long. The part which is used is commonly called ginger root although technically it is the rhizome that is used. The rhizome is an underground stem from which roots and shoots grow. Ginger has a quite sweet, pungent smell and the taste is distinctly fiery. The chemical which makes it hot is called “gingerol” and is a relative of capsaisin which makes chillis hot. The 5th class municipality of Badiangan is situated 40 kilometers from the city. Composed of 31 barangays, it has a land area of 6,335 hectares. Agriculture is the major source of income of its people. The town is blessed with abundant rolling hills perfect for planting ginger or Luy-a as it is commonly called by the Ilonggos.IMT
bag to Php.822.30/bag; Complete fertilizer from Php.1,165.00/bag to Php.1,297.00/bag; Ammonium Phosphorous from Php.1,004.17// bag to Php.1,150.00/bag; and MOP from Php. 1,595.00/bag to Php. 1,874.00/bag. While Mindanao prices ranges from Php.1,055.55/bag to Php.1,385.00/bag for urea; ammonium sulphate from Php 651.40/ bag to Php.790.00/bag; complete fertilizer from Php1,187.75/bag to Php.1,400.00/bag; ammonium phosphorous from Php.988.79/ bag to Php.1,170.00/bag; MOP from Php.1,258.20/bag to Php.1,291.50/bag; and DAP from 1,671.00/bag to 1,732.20/bag. “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 explained. He stressed that inorganic fertilizer can
be repacked by the dealers into one-kilo, two-kilos and five-kilos per pack but strongly advised to the farmers to buy on a per bag basis which weigh at exactly 50 kilograms. He encouraged farmers to check for the standard marking on each fertilizer bags which include: brand name, FPA production registration number, guaranteed analysis of the nutrients net mass/kg., name and address of manufacturer/importer and country of manufacturer/origin if imported. Sangatanan said that farmers should buy fertilizer and pesticides only to FPA accredited dealers/distributors to avoid buying adulterated and fake products which can harm their plants. It must be noted that fertilizer has a shelf-life of two to five years.. He 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., (JEEO/RAFID 6)
Management Service (PAWCZMS) of the DENR. In pursuit of excellence in the field of aquatic sciences and fisheries, the UPV seek to partner with the PAMB of TINMR given the reserve’s rich and diverse marine life. It has also initiated and lobbied hard for Taklong Island and its vicinity to be declared as a national marine reserve in order to preserve its biological, ecological, geologic and scenic values. “In carrying out biodiversity conservation laws, we put great importance on linkages with the academe. Such linkages help us implement environmental laws easier especially when such partnerships create ripple effect of support among the involved communities“, RED Siapno
enthusiastically said in her message to the participants of the said training-workshop. As agreed, the PAMB of TINMR will allow the UPV to conduct research studies through its Marine Biological Station, which was constructed prior to Taklong Island’s proclamation as a national marine reserve. To further strengthen their knowledge and capabilities on biodiversity conservation and protection, UPV’s personnel in Taklong Island shall be deputized by PAMB as Wildlife Enforcement Officers (WEOs), in accordance to Section 30 of Republic Act 9147 or the Wildlife Resources Conservation and Protection Act./ (DENR-RPAO)
Even though you can find various brands of ginger tea at the shelves in any supermarket Badiangan Tahu Instant Ginger Tea tastes entirely different, remarkably better than any other brand available in the market. Barangay Iniligan in Badiangan, Iloilo continues the long history of making ginger ale the old fashioned way. Mr. Diosdado V. Aguilar Sr., inventor and proprietor of Badiangan Tahu
WV has lowest Fertilizer Price among all Regions - FPA 6 Iloilo City - Western Visayas has the lowest inorganic fertilizer prices among all regions on six major grades of fertilizer used by the farmers nationwide. FPA Chief, Ronnie Sangatanan (left) conducts spot inspection at Amigo Planters and Universal Harvester Incorporated depot at Lobuc, Bro. Obrero, Lapuz, Iloilo City and checks on the correctness of weight per sack as the fertilizer in bagged by the workers. (Photo by RAFID 6) According to Rone L. Sangatanan, FPA 6 chief, the regional average price of urea (46-00) is Php.1,030.00/bag; Ammonium Sulphate (21-0-0) Php. 650.00/bag; Complete fertilizer (14-14-14) Php.1,163.33/bag; Ammonium Phosphorous (16-20-0) Php.978.33/bag; MOP (0-0-60) Php.1,208.75/bag and DAP (18-46-0) Php.1,615.00/bag. Sangatanan said that Luzon prices ranges from P1,080.83/bag to Php1,253.17/bag for Urea; Ammonium Sulphate from Php.662.50/
PAMB, UPV ink MOA for marine research at TINMR
The Interim Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) of Taklong Island Marine Reserve in the municipality of Nueva Valencia, Guimaras represented by its chairman, Dr. Adeluisa G. Siapno, Regional Executive Director (RED) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), has entered into a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the University of the Philippines Visayas (UPV) represented by its Chancellor, Dr. Rommel A. Espinosa, in order to allow the latter to conduct research activities within its Marine Biological Station at Taklong Island National Marine Reserve (TINMR) and
its vicinity. The MOA signing was held at the Grand Tower Suites on August 13, 2013 during the Protected Area Management Capability Enhancement Training-Workshop conducted by the Protected Areas, Wildlife, Coastal Zone
I am Iloilo...from page 1 participation of the provincial government in the development, enough reason also to include the province of Iloilo in the marketing strategy. “The reason why we did not put ‘city’ in the slogan is because we would like also to sell Iloilo as a whole together with the province”, he said. The battle-cry is an embodiment of the city’s unique persona which can be promoted to the rest of the world. Mabilog said it is a passionate declaration of
more than what are eyes can see- Iloilo’s rich and vibrant history and culture. Thru social media, the Iloilo City government is looking forward to awakening the consciousness of every Ilonggo to develop a steadfast love towards their own city. The power of social media will help in rippling this love thru “I am Iloilo” to local and international community particularly to Ilonggos all over the world. IMT
No tax...from page 1 “The law requires the issuance of receipts by
online sellers for every sale of goods and properties or exchange of service. The receipt must bear the full amount of the sale to the buyer,” Henares said. The rules also requires online sellers to process manually or electronically the required Authority to Print (ATP) invoices and register books of accounts for use in business. They must file and pay applicable tax returns on or before the due dates as well as submit a summary list of sales/purchases including the payees. Those who go online to deliver marketing messages to find buyers and those who do online auctions are also covered by the rules. PhilStar report further said that online merchants or retailers are mandated to issue acknowledgement receipt to the credit card company or payment gateways for the amount
received. They must also pay the commission of credit card company net of 10 percent expanded withholding tax. “Payment gateways which refer to banks, credit card companies, financial institutions and bill paying services are similarly required to issue validated bank deposit slips in the name of the merchant or intermediary and remit the amount to the merchant less EWT of one half of one percent. Freight forwarders and online website administrators are likewise required to issue the BIR registered OR for the service fees paid by the merchant or advertisers. The merchant/retailer is obliged to pay the online advertising entity for the advertising fee, net of two percent EWT,” PhilStar said. Henares said that they are doubling their effort to attain their collection goal in the end of the year. IMT
METRO SPORTS
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September 1 - 7, 2013
IBL: Westbridge outranks CPU BY REYMAR LATOZA The all-boys school, Westbridge, smashed up the straight win and no loss record of Central Philippine University (CPU) in the Developmental Basketball Tournament ‘16-under’ category of Iloilo Basketball league (IBL). Searing Westbridge grabbed the top spot after defeating CPU, 66-63, in game 22, Saturday, August 24, at Westbridge gymnasium. CPU suffered against opponent, failing to recover its plunging score from first until the final quarter of the said game. Unbeaten Westbridge kicked CPU to the second spot, followed by Assumption School Passi City (ASPC) and Iloilo National High School (INHS) in the third spot. Bario Obrero National High School (BOHNS) occupied the
third spot, cougars dropped to the fourth spot, while Bing Conlu Center (BCC) team A and B winless record is moving towards their downfalls. In game 18, BONHS outlasted BCC team A, 68-68. In game 19, Westbridge won over BCC team B, 48-27. In game 20, CPU defeated INHS, earning 1 shot edge, 56-54. In game 21, BCC team B bowed to ASPC, 39-57. In game 22, Westbridge trounced CPU, 6663 In game 23, INHS crushed Cougars, 69-52. IBL’s Developmental Tournament aims to discover and develop potential Ilonggo Basketball players.IMT
The versatile basketball player
BY REYMAR LATOZA Inspired by his father, Andres Juan Barela, 22, proved himself worthy inside the court as a basketball player. He was a former basketball varsity player of Central Philippine University (CPU) and became as among the ‘Centralian’ stars. After how many years of giving his school a sense of pride, he is now coaching Assumption School Passi City (ASPC) basketball team. He said it is already time to share his skill and give opportunities to young p e o p l e interested in basketball. A n d r e s graduated with a bachelor’s degree in
business administration major in business management. The 5’7’’ tall hard-court player described himself as a versatile and a simple player. Why Basketball? What makes it special to you? Andres: “Basketball because Filipinos love this sport. It’s special to me because since I was a little boy I love to play the game.” How did you learn playing basketball? Andres: “I learned to play basketball by the influence of my family. They introduced me the game and they supported me and motivates me all the time. ” What kind of basketball player are you? Andres: “I am a versatile and a simple player. When I join a team, I do my part and I adjust to my teammates, especially if I am a new member. I’m not a showy type of player, that’s why I’m saying I’m a simple player. I do my job inside the court and give my 100% to help the team win. ”
How do you prepare yourself before the competition? Andres: “I prepare myself emotionally, mentally and physically. I have to make myself focused all the time.” Challenges you had encountered before and how did you survive it? Andres: “The most difficult challenge that I have encountered in a basketball when I was chosen to join the team in the last few minutes of the game. It’s very difficult to play at your best when you are under pressure.When you play the game by heart and always believe that in every storm there will always be a rainbow, everything becomes easy.” What are your learnings? Andres: “A basketball team must play as a team in order to win the game.” Who is/are your inspiration/s? Andres: “I grew up watching Michael Jordan and the other basketball stars. But my inspiration is my father. I see him play and enjoy the game. Then I said to myself I will learn this game and
also enjoy it.” What can you advise to those who are interested in playing basketball? Andres: All I can say to those who love to play basketball is the more you practice the more you get better. They to success is constant practice. Awards received? Andres: “I have less individual award, I got the sportsmanship awardee and the MVP in high school. We also won a championship title when I was in high school. In college, our team won several championship titles”.IMT
September 1 - 7, 2013
MetroMisc
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Metro-Iloilo Guimaras Challenge Fund to uplift tourism industry
BY MARY PAULINE BALMES Thirty six applicants from different micro, medium and small enterprises (MSMEs) in Metro Iloilo and the province of Guimaras compete in the Metro Iloilo-Guimaras challenge fund of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG). With an approximately P3-million reward, the program is meant to bring forward innovative and creative tourism products, dynamic tourism destinations and the unique Iloilo culture experience to the local and
national market. Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog said the fund is a grant from the Government of Canada and implemented in Metro Iloilo Guimaras Economic Development Council (MIGEDC) thru DILG. Mabilog hopes the shortlisted finalists will use the money wisely to improve and innovate their businesses. “This is not just for the money. I’d like also to challenge them to really use the amount carefully and ensure the success of the
program”, he said, The project will start on Sept. 23 with oneyear duration of the implementation for the Php 300,000.00 funding sans the interest. Mabilog is confident that this project will help boost the tourism industry and give Iloilo an identity of its own thru their products and services. “All the participating teams, especially the finalists will add up to new tourism destinations in the locality”, he added. Mabilog also cited the Camiña Balay na Bato
a s an example recipient of the challenge fund in the previous year. Also present during the business pitching session were first secretary Genevieve Asselin of the Embassy of Canada, DILG Regional Director Evelyn Trompeta, DILG Director Anna Bonagua of the Bureau of Local Government Development, LGSP-LED Philippine program director Francis Gentoral and representatives from participating organizations and sponsors from the Iloilo Business Club, Canadian Urban Institute and Association of Canadian Community Colleges.IMT
“Pugad”: The Artists’ Haven BY MARY JANE UBAY Helping someone find his direction is well pleasing and one of the most rewarding deeds. Founded in 1991 “Pugad”, the local artist haven in Lambuyao, Oton, Iloilo hatches a lot of potentials. Gregorio “Boy” Masculino trained as an architect from the University of San Agustin, has designed buildings here and abroad. After a few years of working abroad Boy decided to stay here for good, he was motivated by his passion for
art which is his first love. At present he mentors young people in his neighborhood to explore their potentials as artist. Judel Encio, just 2.6 feet in stature is one of the first hatches of “Pugad”. He has the most inspiring story among his colleagues. Being crippled from birth, the only way for him to move around is to be carried by another person on his back. Before joining “Pugad”, Judel experienced too much ridicule from other people. Since he joined the group, he gradually
built his self-esteem. This gained self-confidence encourages Judel to gain more friends and become more productive in his chosen craft. He mastered terracotta bead making, an art that has become his primary source of income. Unknown to most local residents, his work goes beyond our region. Foreigners who visit even the most expensive resort in Palawan are interested in his crafts. Besides Judel, other artists who have been trained under Boy Masculino focus on paintings
and clay moldings. Their works are combination of contemporary and traditional beliefs. One project that Pugad had accomplished was the Zyron’s façade. Boy took charge of the design and another Pugad artist named Red, was one of the people who did the execution of the design. For Boy seeing Pugad’s nestling spreading their wings satisfy him most. His only goal for Pugad is to produce independent artist who can stand even without his supervision. IMT