Iloilo Metropolitan Times Volume 2 Issue 67

METROPOLITAN

ILOILO

the first business newspaper in metro iloilo

TIMES

VOL. II ISSUE NO. 67

developmental news | critical views www.iloilometropolitantimes.com

June 1 - 7, 2014 Php 12.00

1 Chronicles 16:12 Remember the wonders he has done, his miracles, and the judgments he pronounced, HISTORICAL EXCHANGE RATE Weekly MIDPOINT Rates - May 23 - 29, 2014

USD/PHP

43.9000

43.8890

43.8500 43.8000 43.7594

43.7500 43.7000 43.6500

43.6516

43.6808 43.6313

43.6000 May 23, 2014

43.6250

43.6250 May 25, 2014

May 27, 2014

May 29, 2014

DTI PRICE MONITORING Prime Commodities (April 2014) Prime Commodities (April 2014)

CANNED SARDINES Current Price INSTANT NOODLES Current Price

Paradiso (155g) Young’s Town Bonus (155g) Lucky 7 (155g)

12.15 Lucky Me! (55g) 13.25 Payless (50g) 13.75

PROCESSED MILK Current Price

7.10 6.30 Current Price

BREAD

Alaska Sweetened Filled 51.30 Milk - Condensed 300 mL Pinoy Tasty (400g) Alaska Filled Milk 37.00 Pinoy Pandesal Evaporated 370 mL Angel Filled Milk Evaporated 410 mL

37.00

(pack of 10 pieces) 22.50 36.80

DA PRICE MONITORING Processed and Manufactured Commodities (April 2014) Processed and Manufactured Commodities (April 2014)

Commercial Rice Regular Milled Well Milled Premium Special (Fancy) Sugar Refined Washed Brown Sugar Cooking Oil Lapad (bottle)

Current Price 38.00/kg 40.00/kg 42.00/kg 50.00/kg 46.00/kg 42.00/kg 40.00/kg

Meat & Poultry Pork Liempo Pigue (Ham) Beef Rump Brisket Chicken Fully Dressed Egg (Medium) Fish Bangus

Current Price

190.00/kg 180.00/kg

260.00/kg 200.00/kg 130.00/kg 4.50/pc

CITY TO USE MOBILE MONEY 27.00

Current Price 120.00/kg

“BULAK NG ILOILO”. Iloilo City launches the indigenous flowering shrub bougainvillea as the official local flower.

Bougainvillea is ‘Bulak ng Iloilo’

BY GLORIA CONCEPCION MORALIDAD

Iloilo City is set to push the project “Bongga Bella”, plugging the indigenous flowering shrub bougainvillea as “Bulak ng Iloilo”, the official local flower.

Launched just recently, “Bongga Bella”, which means “grand and beautiful,” is directed to undertake road beautification project for the streets of the city, making use of bougainvillea as the principal ornamental plant.

The project aims to create public awareness for the beatification project and sense of community ownership of bougainvillea as the official local flower of Iloilo as well as to categorize the Bougainvillea /p11

WHAT’S INSIDE business

BY GLORIA CONCEPCION MORALIDAD

The city of Iloilo is up to enact the Scaling Innovations in Mobile Money (SIMM) to improve mobile money process.

Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog has issued Executive Order No. 38 Series of 2014 that will organize a management organization for the said project.

In an interview with Iloilo Metropolitan Times, Iloilo Business Club (IBC) Executive Director Ma. Lea Lara stated that the SIMM is a new innovation that the city is venturing. The project partners involved are tapping the private businesses to adopt the system.

They are looking into small banks and payments as a possible pilot to introduce the concept of mobile banking.

In the public sector side the feat has already been endorsed and they are looking into the possibility of

NEWS

P1.3 billion wage for Jalaur workers 3

Groundwater management in place 4

looking into this kind of payment and access. This project is designed for small amounts not for huge transactions. It will be advantageous to people who line up with a few payments and is beneficial to improvement of the Business Permits Licensing System (BPLS).

“The system is really convenient, its feature is widespread, everybody has a mobile phone and can access mobile banking concept. We will see how it is adopted locally, we have to study the mechanics of the system,” Lara said.

The Scaling Innovations in Mobile Money (SIMM) Project is a two-year project that builds upon the U.S. Agency for International Development’s (USAID) past interventions in microenterprise access and mobile banking to expand financial services through new technologies.

Financial services provide the means for the poor and unbanked to build assets, better withstand shocks, and participate more broadly in the formal economy. IMT

SPORTS Sta. Clarita Prime’s wins Mayor’s Cup 2014 11

WV goes closer to ‘The Land of the Rising Sun’

BY REYMAR LATOZA The route expansion of SilkAir, a subsidiary of Singapore Airlines, to Kalibo, Aklan will bring a big boost not only to the tourism and economy of one province but also of the entire region, according to Department of Tourism (DOT) Assistant PRESS CONFERENCE (From right Secretary Arturo P. Boncato “It’s very strategic to left). Department of Tourism (DOT) and I must say very timely Assistant Secretary Arturo P. Boncato, connection because they have Gabrielle Calizo- Quimpo, Vice Governor, chosen Kalibo and that would province of Aklan and Leslie Thng, Chief service the whole of the region Executive of SilkAir as their third destination in the and business sectors,” he added.

Kalibo is the SilkAir’s third Philippines,” Boncato said during the special launch ceremony held at destination in the Philippines Kalibo International Airport on May after Cebu and Davao and 46th destination in 12 countries.

27.

Flights to Kalibo will be operated “Any connection to any new destination, definitely, will create a on a thrice weekly basis, departing WV goes /p11 lot of impact especially to tourism

Seven out of 10 BIZ Ilonggos don’t save money

pulse

BY GLORIA CONCEPCION MORALIDAD

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FOR RESERVATION : Call or Txt (033) 396 9698 09059347957

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www.milashill.blogspot.com

EMAIL ADDRESS

milashill.inlandresort@gmail.com

Gazebo

Budgeting allows people to make a spending plan for their money. However, in a survey by Iloilo Metropolitan Times, it seemed like only a few budget their moolah.

Only three out of 10 Ilonggos nodded their heads and save their money while seven individuals say they don’t at all.

“It’s hard to budget, because there are events where you least expect to come and spend your money more than you think you could. It could go out and ruin your budget.”

“I only earn a few and prices fluctuate. It can’t even cover my budget!”

“It sounds funny but there’s fear in making a budget, especially when you don’t stick to it.”

“I don’t budget. I just set aside the remains from my expenditures.”

These were the comments IMT has gathered upon the survey.

While most are alarmed on the control and lack of discipline that could happen in budgeting, some regard it as highly imperative.

Seven out /p11

METROPOLITAN

the first business newspaper in metro iloilo

2

Western Visayas

June 1 - 7, 2014

developmental news | critical views www.iloilometropolitantimes.com

P21-M PCF to boost Guimaras

guimaras

BY ELYROSE S. NAORBE

To maximize involvement by spreading socio-cultural and economic gains, the province of Guimaras received a total of P21 million Performance Challenge Fund (PCF) from the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) through DILG Undersecretary Atty. Peter Irving C. Corvera during the 22nd Guimaras Foundation Day. The provincial government of Guimaras and the municipal

government of Jordan received P7 million and P9 million respectively.

While 5 other municipalities got P1 million each.

Of the P9 million received by the municipality of Jordan, P8 million is for the SALINTUBIG (Sagana at Ligtas na Tubig Para sa Lahat) Project.

In his speech, Governor Samuel T. Gumarin said that the amount given by the DILG can really help a lot to fund their incoming projects for the development of Guimaras.

“Thank you for the help and

Wind turbines to dot Guimaras town coastline

Wind turbines will soon dot the coastline of San Lorenzo town in the province of Guimaras.

Guimaras Governor Samuel Gumarin said construction workers and heavy equipment have started streaming to the sites of the wind turbines.

San Lorenzo is set to have 27 windmills scheduled to be completed within five years.

In a short while, Gumarin said,

some of these will be functional enough to generate electricity within the year.

The province has an annual energy consumption of only 13 megawatts, comparatively big compared to that of Iloilo City.

“We are not in a way affected by the power red alert recently hoisted in the Visayas,” Gumarin said.

He added that blackouts occur but very few and at far intervals in between.PIA

antique

SP says EDCA will help strengthen defense capability Former Assemblyman and now Sangguniang Panlalawigan member Arturo F. Pacificador is in favor of the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) signed recently by the United States and the Philippines in order to strengthen the country’s military capability and response to emergencies.

Pacificador said that EDCA is subject to ratification by the Senate because it is a treaty.

According to Pacificador the country needs this because “we are being bullied by China.”

“We know for a fact that we could not defend ourselves, so we have to seek the assistance of friends and America is one of them,” Pacificador said.

The former assemblyman of

Antique also said that he was then against the termination of the military bases agreement “because I know that we are a weak country and we could not defend ourselves.”

Pacificador said that with the USPH agreement on enhance defense cooperation, “America is sincere in their commitment to come to our defense.”

It will be recalled that US President Barack Obama during his visit to the Philippines said EDCA will benefit the two countries, particularly on military readiness and response to calamities.

Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. said in a Malacanang Press report that the US government will help the Philippines establish a coast watch center to enhance its maritime border

cooperation of the officials in order to bring the socio -economic progress in the province. We will make Guimaras as agri-eco tourism in Western Visayas,” Gumarin added.

Undersecretary Corvera together with Governor Gumarin led the Inauguration of the new three-storey building of the Dr. Catalino Gallego Nava Provincial Hospital. This hospital can cater services and needs of the patients in the province because of its modern facilities in surgical operations, laboratories and 30 new beds intended for patients.

Another project highlighted during the program was the presentation of Trans-Asia Renewable Energy Corporation (TAREC)’s 54 MW San Lorenzo Wind Project. This clean and renewable energy project, the first of its kind in Visayas, is being developed.

Boracay’s water supply enough despite El Niño The Boracay Island Water Company (BIWC) has assured residents and tourists that there will be enough water supply, as the country braces for a long dry season due to the El Nino weather phenomenon starting next month.

“We guarantee that there will be no water supply shortage,” said Acs Aldaba, BIWC’s customer service officer.

In an interview during the opening of the 22nd Philippine Water Works Association (PWWA) security and maritime domain, Coloma, who was present during the bilateral meeting between President Benigno S. Aquino III and US President Barack Obama on Monday, said the US leader vowed to assist the Philippines in creating the National Coast Watch Center (NCWC).

The NCWC is an inter-agency mechanism which aims to enhance maritime border security, as well as in governing the country’s maritime domain, pursuant to Executive Order 57 issued in September 2011, the Malacanang press report disclosed. PIA

Capiz PNP vows ‘Serbisyong Makatotohanan’

Caton likewise revealed that they were able to arrest 55 wanted persons and six most wanted persons in Capiz.

According to him, since his assumption as OIC PNP Director on March 1, a total of 12 positive illegal drug operations were made and 17 drug personalities were arrested.

He also expressed his appreciation for the support and cooperation of the local government units in the entire

will pass along brgy. Cabungahan, Cabano, M. Chavez, and Suclaran and will also bring employment to every Guimarasnon, boosting the economy of the province. IMT

aklan

CAPIZ

The Capiz police vows to render true service to the Capiceños.

Capiz Police OIC Director Ulysses Caton said the members of the Capiz police continue to reaffirm their commitment to render “Serbisyong Makatotohanan” to the people here.

“We will continue to provide quality police services to the Capiceños,” Caton stressed.

He said that during his stint as head of the Capiz Philippine National Police, intensive police operations are being conducted to ensure peace and order as well as security to the people here.

For the first quarter this year, Caton disclosed that a total of 100 police operations against illegal activities was conducted that led to the arrest of 137 persons.

In particular, 16 anti-illegal drugs operations were initiated so far, eight operations on anti-illegal possession of firearms, six operations on illegal possession of bladed weapons, four on illegal gambling, three on illegal fishing, and two for illegal logging operations, he said.

It aims to make life better for the Filipinos by investing in the basic needs of energy, education and shelter among others.

Thes 27 wind turbine generators

province here in their anti-criminality drive, citing among others the recent surrender of a barangay official who was a suspect in the killing and wounding of several individuals in a village in Panay town.

Caton said that the partnership effort of the LGUs with the PNP here has made it easier for the cops to make the community peaceful and orderly. PIA

International Conference and Exhibition held at Crown Regency Hotel Resort and Convention Center last May 15, Aldaba said that BIWC have enough water sources to supply its consumers in the island.

The water company sources its water supply from Nabaoy River in Malay.

Aldaba said that the Nabaoy River is projected to provide enough water for the island’s consumers until five years.

However, Aldaba stressed that this should not be an excuse to not conserve water.

“We still have to be responsible users of this resource so that it will not just go to waste. We need to use it properly,” she added.

The island’s consumers have an average water consumption of 10 million liters a day.

The Philippine Atmospheric Atmospheric Geophysical

and Astronomical Services Administration (Pag-asa) forecasted that El Nino might likely occur starting this June and will peak by the end of the year.

Aldaba also assured that BIWC will fast track its development projects here to continue improving its service especially with the steady rise of the number of tourists here.

Aldaba said water interruptions were experienced by some consumers here during the Labor Day holiday also dubbed as the Laboracay only because of the unusual demand caused by the influx of tourists here.

Aldaba said that water demand reached to 50 million liters a day during the Laboracay.

Records of the Malay Tourism Office also showed that 49,998 tourists arrived in the island during the said Labor Day holiday. Western Visayas Informer

NEGROS OCCIDENTAL

Yolanda survivors get more jobs, livelihood opportunities The Memorandum of Understanding inked between the Department of Labor and Employment and the International Labor Organization means more emergency employment and livelihood opportunities for Yolanda survivors here.

DOLE Region 6 Director Ponciano M. Ligutom and ILO Director Lawrence Jeff Johnson recently signed the MOU which aims to strengthen the partnership between DOLE and ILO in developing and implementing inclusive and gender sensitive emergency and enterprise development that will help address poverty and improve the living conditions of Yolanda survivors in that province.

The MOU serves as an established cooperation between the two agencies in the rehabilitation of communities in Yolanda stricken areas in Negros Occidental.

ILO representative Ivan Qarlsen G. Ledesma disclosed that the project has two components: the cash for work or emergency employment, which will involve mangrove rehabilitation activities; and, the skills development trainings to be conducted and facilitated by the Technical Education

and Skills Development Authority (TESDA).

ILO will conduct communitybased enterprise development (CBED) activities prior to the skills development training so as to prepare the beneficiaries.

Tools and jigs will be given after the trainings to enable them to start their livelihood activities.

Meanwhile, Ligutom expressed his gratitude to ILO for partnering with the labor department in continuously providing support and extending help to typhoon-affected workers in the province.

“This is good news to the typhoon survivors because aside from emergency employment, they will also be provided with trainings and starter kits to enable them to apply the things that they will learn and earn income out of it,” Ligutom said.

The MOU is a continuation of the DOLE-ILO emergency employment program previously implemented in November-December 2013 which helped a total of 366 Yolanda survivors in the municipality of Manapla and the cities of Cadiz and Sagay.

The project is expected to run by the end of the second quarter until the third quarter of this year.PIA

June 1 - 7, 2014

METRO BUSINESS

3

P1.3 billion wage for Jalaur workers

BY MONTESA GRINO- CAOYONAN

Thousands of workers in Iloilo will benefit the approximately P 1.3 billion per year wage during the actual construction of P 11.2 billion Jalaur River Multipurpose Project Phase II (JRMP II) in Calinog, Iloilo, according to Ilonggo Senator Franklin Drilon.

Drilon said the project will generate jobs to around 17,000 people in the province.

Once completed, the project will irrigate areas of Iloilo from 22,340 to 31,840 hectares and will also benefit 783, 000 farm workers It will also improve rice yield of farmers from 3.25 to 5.20 metric tons per hectare every cropping season.

Aside from increasing the rice and fish productions in the province, the senator said, as one of the major rivers in Panay Island, Jaluar River could

DoubleDragon acquires property firm in WV

BY REYMAR LATOZA DoubleDragon Properties Corp., owned by Ilonggo businessman Edgar “Injap” Sia, Mang Inasal founder and Tony Tan Caktiong, Jollibee founder, has acquired a 70 percent stake in Zion Land Development Ph Inc for P140 million.

The said Western Visayasbased property firm is owned by the Du family. It was incorporated in September 2011 and it started to operate only last year.

In a news release, DoubleDragon(DD) said that Zion Land is planned to be their

horizontal residential project arm in the Visayas area and will complement to their project portfolio of providing affordable horizontal primary residential development in the provinces and is seen to address the country’s huge housing backlog.

With the acquisition, DD expects to earn more than its P249 million net income target this year.

DD is also planning to buy majority stake of mid-sized horizontal residential property companies in Mindanao, northern Luzon and southern Luzon.IMT

Strong peso is “a silent but big problem”

provide required water resources for multi-purpose utilization such as water resources for irrigation, 6.6 Megawatts hydro –electric power, domestic/ industrial water supply, and other related water resources development.

Drilon added the said project will supply potable water, 1.2 cubic per sec. to address the present and future demand of water in 180 villages in Iloilo City and nearby municipalities in the province.

“The overall objective of this project is to sustain the region’s rice selfsufficiency and contribute to the annual increase in the country’s rice production target of 7.6 percent (food staples selfsufficiency roadmap 2011-2016).”

‘The project has also potential in hydro-power that will address the need for additional power supply in Panay municipalities. The Korean ExportImport (Eximbank) will fund $208 million through an official development assistance (ODA) loan and P2.2 billion will be funded by the Philippine government. The loan is payable for 30 years at .15 percent interest per annum.

Farmers earn only P3000 a month

BY REYMAR LATOZA Farmers in the Philippines are only earning more or less P3,000 a month, according to Philippines’ Presidential Assistant for Food Security and Agricultural Modernization Francis Pangilinan.

In the last 10 years, the average annual wage of farmers was US$ 400 or over P17,000.

At present, Pangilinan disclosed, a farmer’s average annual wage is at US$ 900 million or less than P40,000 or P3,333 per month.

Pangilinan said in seven years, the average annual wage of farmers is expected to grow to at least US$ 1,500 per year or around P66,000 average annual wage.

Philippines is known as an agricultural country because of its vast agricultural resources.

However, the agriculture sector is often neglected and not given importance.

These, according to Pangilinan are the primary reasons why many Filipinos “refuse to go in to farming. IMT

Meanwhile, the JRMP II is now on its design stage.

The KRC consultancy hired by the National Irrigation Administration (NIA-6) has pledged to finish the design in July.

NIA-6 senior engineering aid Engr. Siegfred Emilia said that the

construction cost for the high dam and irrigation will be based on the approved design.

The engineer said they are confident that the construction will start early next year and finish before President Benigno Aquino III’s term ends in 2016.IMT

‘You can make money with pedestrianization’

BY GLORIA CONCEPCION MORALIDAD The Iloilo City Council has recently approved the permanent pedestrianization of Calle Real and will take effect starting July 6, once more at 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. every Sunday.

The program allows locals and tourists alike to gaze and appreciate upon the central business district and the reconditioned heritage buildings.

A study was conducted if stakeholders would favor the said program and it proved to be constructive noted Councilor Jason Gonzales, author of the said ordinance.

“We have written endorsements coming from the transport sector stating that they favor the project.

We’ve had individual consultation and survey of actual businessmen in the area, which majority of them support the pedestrianization. Of course, there are some who didn’t in favor of the project,” he stated.

Gonzales said that the council envisioned a restored and developed Calle Real.

“Which means there will be investors in the forms of bars, cafe and restaurants, private offices and maybe a BPO. Calle Real is active even at night especially on Sundays.

We envisioned a Calle Real being used by the Ilonggos especially families and the youth as a place of pride for them when they bring guests from outside the country and also as one of the center pieces of local tourism,” he added.

He remarked that as of now, there hasn’t any investor yet, but they were informed that certain establishments will locate the area like 7-Eleven convenience store. Their projection is that once a few establishments come up, other businesses will follow.

Gonzales emphasized that the pedestrianization is crucial to show investors that you one can make money in the area.

“When we pedestrianized, we are able to attract foot traffic, we are able to attract tourist, and we are able to attract visitors in the area, both locals and from outside. And because of that, we incentivize business and we are able to prove to them that they can make money by locating their establishments at Calle Real,” he said.

Food and arts kiosks would be restored and expanded. Calendar of activities has been set for entertainment that starts at 5pm to 7pm every single Sunday. IMT

P70-M worth of loans granted for Yolanda-affected LGUs in Iloilo

BY ELYROSE S. NAORBE

BY REYMAR LATOZA Strong peso will continue to be the “silent but big problem for the business process outsourcing (BPO) firms in the region, according to the Development Outlook Report of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Region VI. NEDA-6 explained that “while contract are denominated in US Dollars, expenses are in Philippine Peso.”

Last week, peso averaged P43 to a dollar.

Business Process Association of the Philippines (BPAP) CEO Oscar Sañez , in a report of GMANews.com, said BPO small operators may close shop as revenues dwindle.

“At P43 to the dollar, small operators would be hurting as they

would already be operating at a loss. If you have small capital, you might close shop,” he said.

“When the peso is very strong, it is not good for business. In fact, a big part of the economy will be seriously affected by a strong currency,” Sañez said.

Overseas Filipino workers and their families, on the contrary, will benefit the strong peso “because they will be able to purchse more goods and services and spur further economic activities in the region.”

BPO industry is among the region’s significant contributors to the growth of services exports.

Inspite of this, NEDA-6 expects IT-BPO industry, especially in the cities of Bacolod and Iloilo “to grow and provide more and better jobs for the people of the region.IMT

The Bureau of Local Government Finance (BGLF) under the Department of Finance (DOF) has approved a total of P70 million worth of loan for the two municipalities and one component city in the province of Iloilo which have been affected by Super Typhoon Yolanda.

The municipalities of Lambunao and Banate will receive P21 million loan for farm-to-market road and heavy equipment and P16 million for the procurement of heavy equipment respectively.

Passi City is also set to receive P33 million for the improvement of its city hall.

The DOF-BGLF has recently approved the certification of borrowing capacity for the P1.8 billion loan applications of local government units (LGUs) affected by Typhoon Yolanda from January to May 2014 Of 13 applications for certification received by the BLGF from LGUs

in the Yolanda-hit areas, 11 were approved and issued, the DOF said.

Also, application with LBP that has been certified by the BLGF is from the municipality of Makato, Aklan (P4 million for the construction of multipurpose building) The municipality of Pilar, Capiz

will be getting P20 million loan for construction of public market.

The certification for the municipality of Banga, Aklan, for a P50-million loan with Philippine Veterans Bank for the procurement of heavy equipment was likewise approved by BLGF. IMT

METRO NEWS

4

METRO

groundwater management in place

on the road

BY GLORIA CONCEPCION MORALIDAD

Some 283 small palay farmers in Western Visayas have availed of the government’s Sikat Saka program since it was launched here in 2012 and other farmers are encouraged to also avail of the said credit assistance.

The government’s Sikat Saka, under the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) Food Staples Sufficiency Program (FSSP), is an agricultural lending program available for small palay farmers giving them access to credit, through their respective irrigators’ associations. PIA

The National Water Resources Board (NWRB) endeavored the project “Development of Groundwater Management Plan for Highly Urbanized Water Constraint Cities” in Iloilo City to establish groundwater management plan that counters the impacts of climate change and cogently manage groundwater resources.

In the inauguration ceremony at Cambitu National High School – Western Visayas (CNHS-WV) Campus,Cabolo-an Sur, Oton, Iloilo, National Water Resources Board (NWRB) Water Utilities Division chief Juan Y. Corpuz Jr. stated that ground water is one of the most precious resources and therefore is

DA

DEPED The Department of Education (DepEd) in Western Visayas is expecting around 1.5 million students to troop to over four thousand public schools across the region when the new school year 20142015 begins on Monday, June 2. DepEd 6 Assistant Regional Director John Arnold Siena said in a radio interview on Sunday that of the expected number of enrollees, 1.1 million are in the elementary level and 400,000 in the secondary.

important that the potential quantity of groundwater be measured and the quality be evaluated.

“Groundwater systems are dynamic and adjust continually to short- and long-term changes in climate, groundwater withdrawal, and land uses...Groundwater monitoring wells can establish parameters and provide indicators of the status of groundwater in a particular area,” he noted.

The very first monitoring wells were constructed at CNHS-WV after the tripartite agreement among the municipality of Oton, Department of Education Region 6, and NWRB. A groundbreaking ceremony last December 10, 2013 was held to kickoff the said construction.

Government transactions should not exceed 5 days

DENR The Protected Areas, Wildlife and Coastal Zone Management Service (PAWCZMS) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources 6 is calling for actions to save and protect the existing mangrove areas in the region amidst the trends of destruction and conversion. Western Visayas has a total mangrove area of about 7, 277.52 hectares that is being protected and maintained in coordination with the local government units and other concerned partners.

NEDA Secretary of Budget and Management Florencio Abad today said that P32.2 billion in funds have already been released for post-Yolanda aid as of May 15 this year, in keeping with the Aquino administration’s vow to prioritize rehabilitation efforts in areas struck by the super typhoon in November 2013. The releases span several government agencies in charge of various post-disaster relief and reconstruction programs in Yolanda-hit communities

DILG The government has realized an estimated savings of P3.1-billion in court litigation costs last year through the implementation of the barangay justice system or Katarungang Pambarangay, according to the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).The Katarungang Pambarangay (KP) is an alternative, communitybased mechanism for dispute resolution of conflicts between members of the same community under the guidance of the punong barangay as the lupon chairperson, and without intervention of legal counsels and representatives.

June 1 - 7, 2014

BY GLORIA CONCEPCION MORALIDAD Government transactions in the form of frontline services shall not be longer than five working days in the case of simple transactions and ten (10) working days in the case of complex transactions from the date of request stated in the Republic Act No. 9485, also known as the Anti-Red Tape Act of 2007.

Civil Service Commission (CSC) Region 6 assistant regional director Atty. Raymund F. Gonzales said that there are some cases in an event which is allowed to extend the working days. He noted that there could be technical problems with computers and fortuitous events like typhoons and such, thus, is working days are to be extended.

Other transactions are dependent upon government agencies’ Citizen Charter which must be posted as information billboards at the main entrance or at the most conspicuous place and in published materials.

Gonzales added that if individuals are to send letters to officials or to

offices and if they are of frontline services, the law on Anti-Red Tape Act will follow. If, however, the letter of transaction is beyond the definition of frontline services, Republic Act No. 6713 will be applied, which states thus: All public officials shall, within fifteen (15) working days from receipt thereof, respond to letters, telegrams and other means of communication sent by the public.

Gonzales remarked that if people aren’t satisfied with the service render upon them, they may express their concerns at the Public Assistance and Complaints Desk of local government units (LGUs), the head agency or at the CSC RO6.

People may also text at 09088816565 or call at 1-6565 to the Contact Center ng Bayan (CCB).

The CCB was conceived to be the Philippine Government’s main helpdesk where citizens, civil society organizations and other entities can voice their complaints and concerns with government agencies and gain access to information. IMT

Cash rewards await informants of illegal drugs, wanted persons

BY MONTESA GRINO-CAOYONAN The Iloilo Provincial Government through the Iloilo Provincial Police Office (IPPO) is giving out cash incentives for informants of illegal drugs and most wanted persons in the province.

Governor Arthur Defensor Sr. has allotted a certain amount of money as cash incentives to informants who would help the policemen to facilitating the arrest of most wanted criminals and persons engaged in illegal drug activities.

The governor, however, refused to divulge the exact amount for security purposes.

“Our PNP is doing well in the province. I assured them that they will get my full support especially in the

implementation of all their programs,” he said.

IPPO Director Senior Supt.

Cornelio Salinas said that this step would help a lot to their operations.

Salinas added that they are now strengthening their campaign dubbed as “Hunger Game” which aims to put behind bars all most wanted persons in the province.

Salinas said they are targeting to arrest all in the list of Top 10 Most Wanted Persons in the province so that justice will be served to the victims’ families.

The IPPO director is also encouraging the community especially the local officials to participate on their fight against illegal drugs and most wanted persons to reduce the province’s crime rate by 50 percent. IMT

Corpuz said that as part of the groundwater management plan, the Board is aiming to have eight

monitoring wells by the end of the year at (2) Oton, (2 ) Pavia, (2) Alimodian and (2) San Miguel. IMT

‘We need farmers more than lawyers, doctors’

Photo by Jonathan Clavel

BY REYMAR LATOZA “Here in the Philippines we look up to lawyers; we look up to doctors.

But we need doctors, perhaps, occasionally in our lives; same with lawyers, but we need farmers not only everyday but we need farmers three times a day. “ These are the intrepid words of Francis Pangilinan, Philippines’ Presidential Assistant for Food Security and Agricultural Modernization during the World Economic Forum (WEF) on East Asia held recently in the country.

Pangilinan pointed out the two long-time problems -discrimination to the farmers and lack of support to the agriculture sector - in East Asian region including Philippines that have not yet been addressed up to now.

He also emphasized the important role of farmers in the country’s battle against poverty.

“If we are to achieve food

security we must first secure the farmers,” Pangilinan said.

The low number of enrollees of agriculture-related courses in the country is a manifestation of Filipinos’ lack of interest in agriculture.

In Western Visayas, Courses on Agriculture, Fishery, and Forestry have “consistently low enrollment figures, according to the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) 6.

Pangilinan said that more Filipinos of today’s generation refuse to go in to farming.

“That is truly a threat to food security when the new generation refuses to go farming,” he added.

“Who will feed? Who will get the food? It is alarming. Refocusing and shifting paradigms is needed.”

He said that government must inspire, must convince private sector to risk funds, to invest in the agriculture sector. These resources must be mobilized to the farmers.IMT

Contraceptive use in WV declines; maternal deaths increase

BY REYMAR LATOZA The number of individuals who are using modern methods of contraception in Western Visayas (WV) had decreased by 3.41 percent in 2013, according to the Department of Health (DOH) 6.

The contraceptive prevalence rate in the region went down to 33.47 percent last year from 34.65 percent in 2012.

Contraceptive prevalence rate is the percentage of women who are practicing, or whose sexual partners are practicing, any form of contraception.

It is usually measured for married women ages 15-49 only.

DOH-6 said pill remained the most preferred method of contraception for both poor and nonpoor women.

Other popular methods used are ligation or female sterilization, injectibles, IUD, and condom.

Maternal Mortality Rate Maternal deaths in the region in 2013 ticked up by 0.55 percent.

The recent data released by the health department showed that the maternal mortality rate (per 100,000 live births) in the WV went up to 71.72 percent in 2013 from 71.33 percent in 2012.

The data also revealed that births attended by skilled personnel declined to 77.10 percent in 2013 from 84.85 percent in 2012.

The births delivered in health facilities also decreased by 3.45 percent from 79.33 percent in 2012 to 76.59 percent last year.

In the province of Iloilo, the Iloilo Provincial Health Office (IPHO) said that although the trend of maternal deaths in the province is decreasing, the said concern remains to be thier top priority.IMT

June 1 - 7, 2014

METRO HEALTH

5

Stressful relationships may raise risk of death Worries, conflicts and demands in relationships with friends, family and neighbors may contribute to an earlier death suggests a new Danish study.

“Conflicts, especially, were associated with higher mortality risk regardless of whom was the source of the conflict,” the authors write.

“Worries and demands were only associated with mortality risk if they were related to partner or children.”

Men and people without jobs seemed to be the most vulnerable, Rikke Lund, a public health researcher at the University of Copenhagen, and her colleagues found.

The health-protecting effects of support from a social network and close connections with family and friends are widely recognized, Lund’s team writes in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health.

“Less is known about the health consequences of stressful aspects of social relations, such as conflicts, worries and demands,” they write.

To examine the influence of relationship stress on all causes of death, the researchers looked at data

from a long-term study in Denmark.

They included 9,870 adults in their 30s, 40s and 50s when the study began and tracked their health from 2000 to the end of 2011.

The researchers measured stressful social relations by comparing answers to questions about who - including partners, children, relatives, friends and neighbors - caused worry and conflicts in the participants’ lives.

They also looked at answers to questions about emotional support and symptoms of depression.

During the study period, 4 percent of the women and 6 percent of the men died. Almost half the deaths were from cancer; other causes included cardiovascular disease, liver disease, accidents and suicide.

About one in every 10 participants said that their partner or children were always or often a source of demands and worries. Six percent said they always or often experienced conflicts with other members of their families and 2 percent reported always or often having conflicts with friends.

REUTERS

‘Exercise snacks’ may help control blood sugar

Short bursts of intense exercise before meals may help control blood sugar spikes better than one longer, less intense session, suggests a new small study.

Researchers say these “exercise snacks” may be an effective way to improve blood sugar control among people with insulin resistance, a precursor to diabetes.

“Exercise spread across the day reduces sedentary time, and spread before meals reduces blood glucose spikes after meals,” said lead author Monique Francois.

“Exercise on top of an active lifestyle needs to be more intense than we normally do when walking or moving around,” Francois, from the University of Otago in Dunedin, New Zealand, added in an email to Reuters Health.

She explained that exercise, along with insulin, stimulates muscles to take up glucose from the blood.

“Intense exercise (and prolonged exercise) . . . moves glucose into the muscle quickly and for several hours after,” she said.

“Moving glucose into the muscle so it can be used as fuel or stored lowers blood glucose, as the body only wants a certain amount of glucose in the blood.”

Francois and her colleagues studied two women and seven men diagnosed with insulin resistance. Two of the participants had type 2 diabetes, but none were taking medication for diabetes or blood sugar control.

The participants completed three separate one-day exercise programs in a random order.

The exercise snacks program involved short bouts of intense exercise on a treadmill before breakfast, lunch and dinner. The composite exercise snacks regimen was similar, but included some resistance exercises alternating with walking.

The traditional continuous exercise program consisted of 30 minutes of moderate-intensity walking before dinner only.

Meal timing and composition were the same during the three days.

The researchers found that the exercise snacks and composite exercise snacks routines controlled blood sugar more effectively than the continuous exercise routine.

Specifically, there was a 17 percent reduction in glucose levels over the three hours following breakfast and a 13 percent reduction in glucose levels after dinner on the exercise snack days compared to the continuous exercise days.

Across the day this represented a 12 percent reduction in average postmeal blood glucose levels, the authors report in the journal Diabetologia.

REUTERS

T E C H N O L O G Y

Google making 3D tablet

Google next month will start cranking out prototypes of a 3-D tablet designed to give users immersive experiences that could include virtual reality, according to US media reports.

The tablet will have a 7-inch display and an array of sophisticated cameras, sensors and software, the Wall Street Journal said in a story citing unnamed sources.

Google on Friday said they had nothing to announce.

The tablet was reported to be part of a Project Tango worked on by a special team at the California-based technology firm.

The project was said to involve giving advanced mapping and virtual reality capabilities to mobile devices

Facebook feature gives users new way to flirt

powered by Google’s free Android software.

Nearly 42 percent of people in the United States used tablets at least

once a month last year and that figure was expected to top 46 percent this year, according to industry tracker eMarketer. AFP

Sony Xperia Z2 Tablet goes on sale in the Philippines

Sony announced availability of its new Xperia Z2 Tablet in the Philippines on Friday, May 23. The new tablet is available in black and white variants at Sony Centers, and Xperia and VAIO shops for P34,990.

Announced at Mobile World Congress in Barcelona back in February, the Z2 Tablet is the tablet

version of Sony’s flagship smartphone the Xperia Z2.

Both devices share a similar spec sheet including a 2.3GHz Qualcomm Snapdragon 801 processor and 3GB of

RAM. The Z2 tablet sports a larger 10.1inch Full HD Triluminos Display and a bigger 6000 mAh battery but doesn’t come with the same high-end camera in the Z2 smartphone. Instead the tablet includes 8.1MP and 2.2MP main and front facing cameras respectively.

Sony’s claim that the device is

world’s “slimmest and lightest waterproof ” tablet is still pretty much spot on. Measuring 6.4mm in width and weighing 426g the Z2 Tablet is thinner and lighter than even the 9.7inch iPad Air. Like its smartphone counterpart the tablet has an IP58 rating and is dustproof and waterproof up to 1.5m in freshwater for 30 minutes.

R a p p l e r. c o m

Who hasn’t used Facebook to flirt?

Whether via a seemingly innocent “Like” on a post or a full blown series of comments on an album of photos, there’s no denying that users have taken to the world’s largest social network to connect for sex and love.

And in an unintentional nod to its other purpose, Facebook is rolling out a new feature that can very well be the biggest flirting tool since the notorious “Poke”.

Recently “Ask” buttons have begun popping up next to omitted details on users’ “About” boxes – details like where they grew up, where they work, or what schools they attended.

No one’s really bothered until

this week when users reported seeing the Ask button appear beside a user’s relationship status. If you are brave enough to ask, you will have to send that user a message explaining why you need to know.

Of course, if you’re asking, an emoji will suffice.

On the other end of the line the user you’re eyeing will be notified about your request and will be given a list of relationship statuses to reply back with.

That user may choose to reveal to you or everyone whether he or she is in a relationship, engaged, or married.

But really, the only answer that matters is “Single”. – Rappler.com

METRO OPINION

6 EDITORIAL

Economic Torture

T

he recent structural developments in the city of Iloilo is overwhelming to a point of exhaustion at times. As in any case, changes are always meet with moderate to harsh resistance since it is often times changing the established order of things around.

This has become the case of the proposal to re-construct and “re-vitalize” the Iloilo Central Business District which was eventually narrowed to the Iloilo Central Market.

The whole idea of repairing the market in the pretext of a joint venture with a private group is not actually bad.

The trouble started when talks went out loud that a favored group in the entity of SM Prime Holdings is set to bag the contract since the biddings held prior its entry failed. Doubts were later validated when it turned out that Terms of Reference (TOR) approved by the Iloilo City Council are devoid of proper public and stake holders’ consultations.

The more than 1000 market vendors started complaining and protesting. Iloilo City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog yielded and faced the broken sound of silence among the vendors and declared that a new TOR will be approved to include the concerns of the vendors thereby confirming that the vendors were not consulted about it.

Amid the issues of corruption in the management of the markets in Iloilo City, the “re-vitalization” project of the Iloilo Central Market should be dealt with independently and with propriety.

It is about time that the plight of the vendors must be improved by way of providing them a better place to do their trading. The proposed joint venture with a private group is a good opportunity to realize the project.

The city government however must exercise prudence in entering into an agreement. While it is true that such a business contract is beneficial to the financial health of the city, the welfare of the vendors must be the most important trade off of the city government.

Allowing the private partner to engage in the same nature of business as that of the market vendors is not a healthy competition but an economic torture for the lowly market players instead of boasting their capabilities.

School Year

I

t is back to school again for our pupils, students and teachers as June arrives. BalikEskwela entails new expenses for the parents who wants to give their children better education as a foundation for the future. Better education means additional expenses in a country whose Constitution provides for free and accessible education for all. Such irony does not escape the common tao, what with the rising tuition fees and school supplies and the burgeoning population of public schools.

The move to change the school year from June-March to AugustMay has been boiling for so long

among the legislators up to coffee shops and barber shops in the country. The discussion of whether it will benefit our kids, and eventually our country, from this change is never-ending. It has become a chicken and egg argument. This is due to the fact that we experience the rainy and typhoon seasons during July and August every year, making our children miss school due to flooded streets that endanger their lives. The people and even the teachers and parents are divided on the issue.

As they say, ‘old habits die hard’. For so long, we have been used to having June as the school opening that we cannot imagine how life would be like and what adjustments we will make if school opening is

June 1 - 7, 2014

transferred to August. On the other hand, in an agricultural country like ours, children and adolescents are free laborers and farmhands in their parent’s farms when they are not in school. If the rainy season is also the vacation time, children will not be exposed to hazards of the weather and can become farm hands to help their families tend to the land. These are the main arguments of the pro and anti school opening date transfer. For those who are against the transfer, they would cite the adjustments to be made by everyone affected by the transfer.

After the children, parents, teachers, drivers and literally everyone is really affected. Even the candy and chicheria vendors outside the schools will have to adjust to make business.

The question now is whether

we can benefit from the transfer or not, and if it is worth it. How do we determine the beneficiality of the transfer? We all know it will be hard to go back if the transfer becomes a failure. We would only be playing with the schooling of the children. It is a struggle indeed. But change is always constant. We need change in this country for we have been wanting too much of change that could alleviate us from the quagmire of mediocrity. If it takes a lot to determine the beneficiality of the transfer, then let us start now in seeking the answers. We now know the never-ending discussion has brought us nothing but the chickenand-egg arguments that kept us in a loop. From K-12 to school opening transfer, we have been left behind by other countries. Let us learn from their lessons and move forward.

triggered a global frenzy, and fans are already agog over the sophistication and hoopla that attended the preparation stages arranged by gigantic sponsors.

Yet, Ilonggos are still enmeshed on the suspense and thriller whipped up by the NBA play-offs in both the Eastern and Western conferences among San Antonio Spurs, Oklahoma Thunder, Miami Heat, and Indiana Pacers.

Many of them don’t give a hoot about the pre-tournament predictions that Brazil would steamroll Argentina in the finals. Too early to speculate for those oddsmakers.

In the early 70s, a Chinese karate instructor ushered us to Golden Theater, a downtown moviehouse in Iloilo City, to watch “Game of Death” starring Bruce Lee, known as “Hai Tien” in the film. Tien was a retired champion martial artist who was confronted by the Korean underworld gangs.

Our Chinese karate instructor wanted us to study the movements of Bruce Lee and how he defeated in the Pagoda tournament Filipino Eskrima master Dan Inosanto and Korean Hapkido master Ji Han Jae. As elementary pupils, we actually knew little things about the legendary Bruce Lee and the karate styles he was employing to outwit his rivals.

What caught our attention was the very tall bemoustached black man, who engaged Bruce Lee in a bloody and full-contact karate showdown that had the audience on the edge of their seats. He was Kareem Abdul-Jabbar,

who fought with a free and fluid style mirroring Lee’s Jeet Kune Do. Because Abdul-Jabbar’s character has great size and strength in addition to a fighting style as potent as Lee’s, he could only be defeated once Bruce Lee or Hai recognized that an unusually high sensitivity to light was his greatest weakness. Ergo, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar became the man of the hour.

FIFA and Azkals can’t snatch away

I

longgos’ madness with NBA

“When you can do the common things of life in an uncommon way, you will command the attention of the world.”

George Washington Carver Ask any Ilonggo sports fan— young and old-- in the street about the National Basketball Association (NBA) nowadays and he can tell us lengthily about LeBron James, Blake Griffin, Kobe Bryant, Marc Gasol, Derrick Rose, and Russell Westbrook – all NBA leading superstars in this generation.

Ilonggo sports enthusiasts are not only familiar with James Yap, Asi Taulava, Jun Mar Fajardo, Jason Castro, Jayve Casio, among other top PBA cagers today, but can also recite statistics about NBA’s Dwight Howard, Kevin, Durant, LaMarcus Aldridge, Stephen Curry, and Paul Millsap, to mention a few.

Basketball is arguably the No. 1 sport of the Ilonggos and Filipinos in general, including those living in other countries exposed to other outdoor and indoor sports. Next to politics, basketball is the country’s national passion. In between is Manny Pacquiao’s KO demonstrations.

Ask the same fan (unless, of course, he is a true-blue sportswriter) if he knows Zinedine Zidane, Thiago Silva, Lionel Messi, Ronaldo, Paulinho,

Roberto Baggio, Fernando Hierro, and David Villa-- all FIFA World Cup legends, and he will surely pause for a while before giving us a blank stare.

FIFA World Cup is the world’s most popular sporting event next only to the World Summer Olympic Games, but Ilonggos or Filipino fans for that matter, remember FIFA World Cup only when media start to make a noise and flood the sports pages and internet with news about how rich countries in Europe and Africa treat the event as a global phenomenon.

FIFA World Cup enters into an Ilonggo fan’s imagination as soon as he sees a football field in the newspapers and TV clips; as soon as front pages drumbeat the huge event that it is now “FIFA World Cup time!”

YOUNGHUSBANDS Ilonggo fans, of course, know James and Phil Younghusband as Akzals brother heartthrobs like they know their kindergarten classmates, but they can hardly recall with complete familiarization other prominent booters in the team that recently made waves in the AFC Challenge Cup in Maldives. Without the presence of the handsome FilipinoBritish football players, Ilonggos can remember only their very own Ian Araneta and Chieffy Caligdong, both of Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo.

Several days from now, the 2014 FIFA World Cup will unfold in Brazil.

The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) event has

FIGHTS Instead of focusing on Bruce Lee’s fights, everyone was now talking about Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (born Ferdinand Lewis Alcindor, Jr. ) and how he acquired the Muslim name after piloting the Milwaukee Bucks in his first NBA title in 1971 at age 24. If Jabbar were a candidate for a national office in the Philippines, he would be a sure winner given his tremendous popularity that skyrocketed further after the Game of Death film.

Even in the sixties and seventies, NBA was very popular among Filipino cage fans. During the martial law years when cable TV and internet were not yet around, Filipinos were already infatuated with the NBA even at the height of the PBA Crispa Redmanizer vs Toyota rivalry in the 70’s.

Only Manny Pacquiao’s fight can rival the best-of-seven series between two NBA teams. When the NBA finals unwrap several days from now in time for the opening of the FIFA World Cup in Brazil, we will know which event will get the immediate attention of Ilonggo fans.

Teens and School: A Win – Win Solution

L

ast week, I talked about helping our children develop study habits. When our children are in preschool or in the primary grades, things can run so smoothly. But teenagers and study habits? These two do not seem to go together. How then can we help our teens do well in school without starting World War III right in our homes?

If our children develop good study habits in the primary grades continuing them will just be a breeze. But what about those who have never developed them at all? It is never too late to develop good study habits but it has to be understood that it becomes more difficult to develop them in adolescence. Our teens need these habits not only to do well in their present year levels but they need them to be able to handle the demands of university. It is better to have them handy in high school than to wait for college.

What can parents do?

Teenagers may not welcome parents sitting for hours beside them during study time although this may work for some. Parents of teenagers should understand their new world in order to help them with school. In their book, Helping Our Children Do Well in School, Dr. Queena Lee-Chua and Maribel

Sison-Dionisio talks about some things parents should understand about teenagers: 1. Teenagers have a wider world than children so flexibility in study routines should be in context.

2. Positive and negative reinforcement for teens may be different from that imposed on younger children.

3. As a parent, strive to understand what motivates your adolescent. Know what they are interested in. Have an open communication line. Find what they are concerned about by spending time with them and talk to them constantly.

4. Because of the adolescent developmental spurt, they need more rest than at any other time since infancy. Their seemingly limitless energy may suddenly give way to sheer lassitude, thereby study patterns should be adjusted accordingly. A 15-minute nap before study time may be essential for some.

5. Good nutrition is important. It is difficult to impose healthy meals on teenagers but making them understand that concentration, ability to persist and brain functioning depend on nutritious food may do wonders.

Present them with good food for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Lunch food for school can be from home

which is cheaper but healthier in case they do not have good food choices in the school canteen.

6. Teens insist on privacy, and we parents should respect that.

However, a teenager in a locked room who comes out only for a few minutes at dinner every day may be in trouble and may need our help. When they promise to work harder but do not want to accept any help, yet they continue to bring home low scores and low grades, then something concrete should be done. Making an agreement regarding accountability can be put in place. Even if they opt to study independently, it is always good to check that they do their homework regularly. I missed on this big time when my eldest was just starting 6th grade but it was a relief when he started to accept my help in the middle of the school year.

7. Expose teenagers to the real world. Show them applications of math in finance, manufacturing and economics. Instill a reflective viewpoint of society and encourage them to analyze more. Point out how much they need to learn in school so they can make a difference in the world.

8. Try to practice patience of a saint. Research has shown that “new neural circuitry may slow down normal patterns of conversation.” Some teenagers may

need more time to communicate ideas so we should be extra-patient with them at this stage.

9. When your teenagers become angry, they may need to express their emotions verbally.

Encourage them to talk problems over with you, and respond with a sincere desire to help. When they criticize teachers, classmates or the school, listen to them and see how things can be better. A sign or maturity is adaptation to different personalities. Teenagers have to learn that they cannot have nice teachers all the time.

10. If communicating with your teens becomes a problem, turn to adults they respect for help. They might be close with a grandparent, an aunt or an uncle and that person may be the key to help you better understand your teen.

Ultimately, we should remember that we, parents, are the best role models. We are not perfect, but we should try our best.

We should strive for excellence, practice what we preach and try to keep on learning. More importantly, we should consistently show love to one another in the family. That loving atmosphere will help our kids study well and try their best too.

Together, let us journey with our children through this new school year. All the best!

METRO OPINION

June 1 - 7, 2014

HIGHLAND DEVELOPMENT W

hen the h e a t turns out to be oppressive, Filipinos are very imaginative. The affluent among us would simply turn on their air conditioning units to supercool mode or else travel to temperate countries.

The less materially privileged can only scratch their heads and resort to using air fans or hand fans.

For others, spending time in climate-controlled environment (read my lips: malls and offices) is a good option. I am sure that many, however, find palliative comfort in taking a bath several times a day if not constrained by water scarcity.

This year is a reprise of the prolonged drought that we experienced in 2009 due to the El Niño phenomenon. Without the cooling effect of saturated air, our bodies respond negatively to the ambient high humidity. There is another best way to beat the heat, however, and that is to seek refuge in the highlands.

It is amazing how the Indonesians have developed their own Shangrila for residence, food production, vacation, and tourism. Berastagi, for instance, is just 2.5 hours away from Medan, capital city of North Sumatra. At 1,400 meters above sea level, the air is wonderfully nice and unpolluted while the scenery is extraordinarily captivating. I found the two days I spent there as visiting lecturer at Quality University to be

simply too short.

Only one and a half hours away from Jakarta is Cipanas, a favorite mountain destination of tourists during weekend. This is where the temperature ranges from 18 to 24 degrees Celsius.

There are many interesting places in this small town but my preferred spot is the Gunung Mas Tea Plantation which is the largest in West Java. Here, it is common to see local and foreign tourists having “tea walk” to admire the greenery and breathe the fresh air.

Bandung, however, remains as my top favorite. The second largest metropolitan area and the third largest city in Indonesia (population: 8.9 million), it has an elevation of 768 to 2,400 meters above sea level, making it the coolest city in the country.

Many residents of Jakarta spend their weekends in Bandung for rest and recreation.

Just think of the rich potentials of Bucari and the Seven Cities which remain untapped until now. While long identified as Iloilo’s future tourist destinations, the low level and slow capital spendings towards firming up the bedrock of development for these highlands are heartbreaking.

The snail-paced progress in the construction of paved highways that will connect Iloilo City to Bucari and the Seven Cities remains formidable due to the poor sense of urgency and lack of political will from our key leaders. I had traversed through those potholed, rocky, and muddy roads several times

and the long time spent in traveling as well as excessive vehicle associated costs made me wonder whether or not there is sanity in using the same “abortion” roads again.

Bucari and the Seven Cities with their cool air and breath-taking scenery are less than two hours away from Iloilo City yet they remain blatantly inaccessible to tourists. Some refer to these locations as Iloilo’s summer getaway or “Little Baguio” because the temperature there can dip to a low of 15 degrees Celsius but that, in truth, is a misnomer and an understatement.

These less explored Alimodian and Iloilo highlands are, in fact, above Baguio in terms of their pristine, unique, and unexploited beauty as well as by the unparalleled character of the present inhabitants - gentler, kindler, caring, and hospitable. Most of those who went underground from these towns are now back into the fold of the law, making their communities safer and more peaceful than ever before.

Even when the public infrastructure backbone is already in place, however, the horde of tourists will not be lured to visit Bucari and the Seven Cities until there are affordable and good accommodation, amenities, communication, food, and attractions made available through private investments for everyone’s appreciation, adventure, and enjoyment.

“If you build it, he will come”.

That is reminiscent of the voice

WHEN THE WELL RUNS DRY D

id you r e a l l y announce on Facebook that you are cancelling the Poems about Water contest?

It is sad, but true. I first blurted out the news on Facebook on May 28. And I am announcing it here again, hoping that those people who read my mid-April announcement in this newspaper will be notified and guided accordingly. It is not really a cancellation more than a postponement until next year. We are definitely going to have the Poems about Water writing contest in 2015.

It is an unfortunate development, but I have very good reasons.

Which are?

I’ll give you just two: my Foundation no longer has the money for it this year, and I think that we are on to a bigger project. Last year, my Foundation sponsored only two writing contests: the Very Short Story, and the Love Poetry. This year, we announced four including the Poems about Water, and have realized three: Poetry for Children, Stories for Children, and The Saddest Love Story.

I think that it’s pretty amazing. This May, I also conducted an online poetry workshop called Poem-a-thon. What I haven’t announced with finality, because I didn’t really see the Poema-thon coming, is the publication of five books in Hiligaynon in 2014. So, yes, I am redirecting the Poems about Water budget for the Poem-a-thon anthology.

You are publishing five books in a single year?

Sounds impossible, right? But I am Peter Solis Nery, and this is my Foundation we are talking about.

So, we will have five anthologies that will feature the entries to the Peter’s Prize Very Short Story, Love Poetry, Children’s Literature, Saddest Love Story, and the submissions to the Poem-a-thon. Based on the collective creative output, and the discovery of new writing talents in the region, I think that my Foundation has very successfully promoted and propagated Hiligaynon by encouraging writers, new and old, to write more in the mother-tongue. By publishing our creative output in these last two years, we will be truer to our mission of also preserving Hiligaynon literature.

But the writing contests will resume next year, right?

Definitely. We will not be giving up the writing contests. I find the contests an effective way to give people a real incentive to write. We have also gained good reputation and prestige not only in the writing community, but in the whole Western Visayas region in general so we are determined to keep that. I really think that postponing the Poems about Water contest to next year will only give it more attention, and perhaps a bigger, more enthusiastic response.

I’m pretty sure that the poets from my online poetry workshop will be excited to join. Also, I don’t want to give those who benefitted from the workshop an undue advantage.

hounding cornfield farmer Ray Kinsella (Kevin Costner) in the movie “Field of Dreams” which, in this article, also reflects the necessity of laying out a strong foundation first in order to realize future stream of incremental net benefits.

We dream of the day when we can easily pack off for camping in the mountains.

We dream of the day when we can healthily commune with nature. We dream of the day when we can uninhibitedly take a plunge into the natural cold spring or waterfall pools. We dream of the day when we can enjoy picking fresh strawberry and harvest pesticide-free vegetables.

We dream of the day when we can spend quality time with our family, drink arabica coffee or green tea happily, visit museums, go horseback riding, and buy cottage handicraft and other souvenir items up in the mountains. We dream of the day when we can simply relax and cool off in the wood cabin amidst the sweet scent of tall pine trees.

That, indeed, would be a glorious milestone in our lives.

And that day can undoubtedly happen soon if we are for and united on the imperatives of highland development. poetry in Poem-a-thon may not be dizzyingly highbrow, or the kind of elitist poetry that is worshipped by the academics, but for me, they are the true documents of the Hiligaynon experience of this generation.

It would truly be a pity not to publish such creative output in a book.

So the Poem-a-thon is the big reason for the change of plans?

I think that the Poem-a-thon is a wonderful, and pretty historic, experience that deserves proper documentation. I believe that the book will definitely do that. Being at the heart of the Poem-a-thon gave me a good view of the state of our current Hiligaynon poetry. The

Is the postponement of the Poems about Water contest any indication that the well of funds for The Peter Solis Nery Foundation is running dry?

If it is, what can you do about it? I have personally funded all the projects of my Foundation. I have not yet asked anything from anyone. I worked my ass off as a nurse to afford what my Foundation does. And now, I am retired from Nursing. So yes, maybe our funds are running low.

Maybe our well is running dry. But until you give a single centavo to my Foundation, you have no right to ask about our state of funds. You are only allowed to be amazed at how much, how very much, I can do alone.

Wars, holds the statue of An Junggeun, the one who waved the Korean flag toward its independence after assassinating the Japanese Prime Minister Ito Hirobumi in 1909. The last hall depicts the Social-Cultural Movement. Here, the legacy continues through anti-Japanese themes in arts and literature and in the protests by students, peasants, women, youth, and the labor sector.

I felt energized on my way toward The Grand Hall of the Nation to rejoin my colleagues for lunch. I thought of our own struggles for independence: 300 years under the Spanish rule; under the Americans since 1900s to the present in our alliance to the Coalition; the destruction of Manila in the 1940s, the comfort women, and the hardships that our elders told us they had to endure when the Japanese waged their power in the region.

Our long history of colonization and the archipelagic nature of our country are cited as major reasons

for our fragmentation, in contrast to the Koreans who are primarily defined as a homogenous group of people.

Our government pales in comparison. We can consider our lack of grand historical monuments to showcase our rich legacy of heroism and struggle for independence as evidence. If South Korea’s proud celebration of its history goes hand in hand with its economic success, the historical amnesia and cultural shortsightedness of our government come in handy with its exportation of our kababayans to the factories, construction sites, and hagwon of South Korea.

The path to independence is hard and long. But the imperative to remember and learn from our history is now, more than ever.

The Rhetoric of Nationalism, Or What the Philippines Can Learn from South Korea

I

t was a foggy June morning in 2009 and the road to Independence Hall of Korea in Cheonan was long.

So was the path to independence in the 35 years of Japanese colonial rule (1910-1945).

The imposing Unification Hill and Patriots Memorial greeted us.

Along the Bridge of Independence, small flowers were abloom. Down the White Lotus Pond, there were hybrid carps waiting to be feed. Nearby, there were bamboo and pine groves for resting.

This repository was proposed immediately after liberation in August 1945. But it was only fully realized due to domestic and international problems in August 28, 1982. The expanse of the area is in itself a testament to the value the Korean government and its people accord History. They raised funds; the need heightened by the distortion of Korean history in the textbooks of Japanese in the early 80s.

It has Six Exhibition Hall. A middle-age woman with a good command of English guided us.

The first hall carries The National Heritage: artifacts like a gift bronze pagoda of Buddha that tells the resistance of Korean people against foreign invasions in the pre-historic age to 1897, to materials displaying the overcoming of Korean people of their nation’s crises. The second hall showcases The Nationalist Movement: the warriors of the Independence Fighters from 1860s to 1910 when Korea lost its freedom.

The third hall memorializes Japanese Aggression: flogging, box torture, naval battle, aerial warfare, leg-screw torture, prison diary. The fourth hall displays The March First Independence Movement. I remember being shocked by its theatrical lighting as the audiovisual presentation relieved Korea’s heroic past, and of what remains to be saved for the present and the future.

The fifth hall, The Independence

7

What PECO did not tell you (1) M

any of Iloilo City’s power consumers were surprised to know that the Panay Electric Co. (PECO) has a new office building nested at its plant site along Gen. Luna St. at the back of what was known then as the Tree House.

How much is the cost of the building?

When the building was proposed back in 2010, the total project cost was P100 to 110-million.

The structure comprised of a four-floors which will house collection, customer services, legal, and consumer welfare departments. The building is likewise designed to have a roof deck for meetings, parties and social gatherings of PECO employees and a half floor chapel for prayer and meditation.

When the details were discussed during the hearing called by the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC), we found out that the cost estimate was a whopping P43,000 per square meter and which will provide 25-square meter of work space for every personnel.

You can check your friendly architect in the neighborhood in order for you to learn that estimates of the PECO building was exceptionally overpriced, if compared to the controversial Iloilo City Hall building, or even with the prevailing commercial cost of constructing buildings by private contractors.

NEL Consulting Ltd, a Switzerland-based independent firm commissioned by the ERC to undertake assessment and review of PECO ‘s application found out that the project cost appeared far exorbitant if compared to other similar projects being undertaken in Panay region or from other applications of other power utilities.

NEL Consulting contacted Royal Asian Appraisal to assist them for cost comparison and it revealed that “a typical three to six story building only ranges from P16,000 to P20,000 per sqm in Panay region.”

As a result, NEL Consulting was “reluctant to recommend the full amount (P100-million) requested by PECO and instead endorsed only P30.2-million for building construction at P18,000 per sqm consistent with the prevailing cost of construction. The ERC, however, did not adopt the recommendation of the NEL Consulting Ltd. and adjusted the recommended cost by approving P67.5million to PECO. After the long process of asserting that consumers interest are properly protected from unjust costs being proposed by PECO, the ERC did not adopt the recommendation of the technical experts and the interveners for the consumers in the case.

In its place, the ERC came up with its own decision which is contrary to consumers’ interest and welfare as far as costs is concerned.

The assertions of the interveners in the case stands from the context that everything being requested by PECO to the ERC will come from the blood and sweat of the consumers through an increase in the Distribution Charge for the period 2011 to 2015.

The entire project cost will not or did not come from the profits earned by PECO all these years. PECO has been reporting increased profit margin for more than 10-years preceding its application of constructing a new building, among other requests. It did not, however, plowed back even a portion of its profit in improving its infrastructures and facilities for improved consumer service.

In a separate case, the consultants emphasized that “there is a need for companies providing monopoly of services to be sensitive to the economic circumstances of their customers and for the ERC to take this into account in making regulatory decisions.”

It only proved that the ERC is inutile.

The ERC allowed consumers to be victimized twice over as taxpayers and power consumers of PECO. Isn’t it that it is also people’s money from taxes which were being paid to the equally expensive salaries of ERC commissioners and its consultants?

The consumers who had experienced paying monthly bill at the new office building were happy that finally PECO has something new and comfortable to offer to them such as the new building. The consumers, especially residential consumers, are mindless, however, that the new building was materialized out of their monthly contribution to the Distribution Charge amounting to P0.2579 for five years.

(To be continued) ###

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METRO TOURISM

June 1 - 7, 2014

9

San Juan, La Union and Siargao Island TEXT AND PHOTOS BY JARRAH BRILLANTES

San Juan, La Union

S

urfing spots are in every part of the country. It must be logical because we are an archipelagic country situated in the Pacific. Well, except for Panay Island. In lieu of my birthday celebration, I thought of surfing. Yes, I am an emerging surfing enthusiast. I am a beginner with motion sickness.

I love to travel and getting stoked completes a beachapade. I have been to Siargao Island, Zambales and Baler (though did not surf there because I can hardly see a good wave to ride when I was there). To complete the country’s top surfing haven, San Juan, La Union is the destination.

I traveled all the way from Iloilo to get to the northern part of the country. I took the last flight from Iloilo to Manila. As soon as I arrived

at Partas Terminal at Cubao, we left at 12midnight. It took us 5 and a half hours to get to San Juan Surf Resort at San Juan, La Union. The environment was still pitch black when we touched down. The sun has not yet shown itself.

Thanks to google map we were able to locate the resort. The resort is just right in the national road when you get off the bus.

Friends and I got ourselves a room at San Juan Surf Resort. The resort has their own pool of surf instructor which will cost you 400 per hour. The rate will include rush guard (if you do not have one) and a beginner long board.

To check their rates, go visit their site.

The website will be helpful in planning your trip – accommodation, breakfast and surf lesson are included in their prepared packages. For girls who have a huge crush to the half Australian – half

That is Kitchie Nadal approaching. Fan-girl mode.

My friend and Luke Landrigan. Sorry did not have a picture with him.

Filipino Surfer/Model Luke Landrigan (my friends included to that, the reason we went to La Union), private lessons could be taught by the athlete himself. And oh, while we are there, the girls got to chat with Luke. He is indeed approachable. It is interesting to know that his mother is an Ilongga.

Lounging! That is one non-surfing activity I love most while in the San Juan. I may say, San Juan has one of the best sunsets. I have never seen a sunset as crisp and sharp.

Lounging is best experienced with new friends. Ilocanos never failed to impress me. We earned a couple of surfer friends that did not just show us around but also cooked for us. We were also introduced to a surfer expat

based in Zambales, Chico. He just loves the Philippines, especially the waves. Here is one of the best things I have learned from that fruitful conversation with Chico, “Stoked refers to the mixed feeling of anxiety and happiness towards the waves breaking”. Understandably, this is why surfers dive into a different kind indulgence to the sport when they discovered it.

I am a highly active and passionate person. I have never got too hooked to sports though. I used to be a go-getter corporate slave. I was, until I went beyond loving the sea. My communion with the sea is beyond feeling stoked.

It is bigger than the barrels of the Mavericks I wish to conquer.

Siargao: Immerging Tourist Favorite

S

iargao is not an accessible province for people coming from Iloilo. It is obviously nearer than Manila. It will take us two flights to get there. However, as a lover of life and continuous adventurer, why should I be stopped by that thought?

Tip: For those who will have enough time in Mactan Cebu International Airport, get some meal at Zubuchon.

We got our plane ticket during CebuPac’s promo rates. Internet savvy as I am, I saw a recommended ad from Metrodeal for a 3D/2N Siargao accommodation for just P1,199. It was offered by Indochina String Travel Agency. I love them! I will certainly recommend them to friends.

As soon as we touched down at Sayak Airport, Dapa, Siargao, we reminded ourselves not to be fooled by locals as this place has become a foreigners haven. Almost 80% of the passengers in our flight are not Filipinos. So we wondered if this is still bound within the archipelago.

While scouting for a cheap ride outside the airport, two other cebubased tourists asked us to join their service. We paid 500php for the two of us. I know it was overpriced but I am good with the first connections we had in the island. There goes my personal reminder not to be fooled by locals.

We were dropped at Patrick on Cloud 9. After few minutes of lounging in the resort, the owner’s driver/ secretary Alex, fetch us. He said he had some confusion. He should have fetch us but he got a wrong group. To make up for their presumed mistake, the owner upgraded our accommodation from a fan room in Patrick on Cloud 9 to an airconditioned room with TV and fridge at Patrick on the Beach.

Great deal!!!

Tip: Patrick on the Beach and Patrick on Cloud are two different

resort, in different location but with the same owner. Outside Patrick on the Beach is Ronaldo’s Inn and Restaurant.

Cheap barbeque dinner is available here. Siargao rates are not as awful as Boracay.

Yohoho Lagoon – Patrick’s on the Beach offers this tour which is inclusive of entrance fees, boat ride, land transportation, unlimited hours of kayaking, stand up boarding, snorkeling, swimming, lunch buffet and technically endless beer. Off from the resort, it will take an hour of land travel to Del Carmen Pier and another

45 minutes boat ride to the beautiful lagoon of Yohoho. It is a secret heaven.

Yohoho is private and quite. It is just perfect to lounge in a hammock and drinking a cold mango rum with a view a blue green pristine lagoon.

Inclusive of this tour is a quick stop to a cave. The cave houses a bunch of skeletons who died during the American War. This though is not very accurate because the government has not payed attention to its local history, says our guide.

Siargao surfing – Yes! This is what we have been waiting for. Considering my frame, I am glad to stand on my Patrick on the Beach

Me: Am I still in the Philippines?

surf board for the first try. Yahooo!!!

But learning how to surf does not end there. Getting back lying flat on the board is another thing, especially of the waves keeps on splashing in your face. Paddling yourself back in the breaks is another struggle. This is the harder part if you do not have strong arms. FYI, there is no need to be a pro swimmer when you surf. The recommended water level for beginner surfing is not above human height.

Bike around the island if you want to explore. It will cut your transportation cost. Also, burns lots of calorie. While in a bike ride, visit General Luna and get a good view of the famous Cloud 9 from the platform

created for international surfing competitions. Each tourist that visits Cloud 9 should also meet Oscar, the super friendly Labrador who swims and accompanies anyone who would like to walk and rub him.

Patrick’s on the Beach – You just have to stay there. Rooms are cozy.

The owner, Andreas, is very warm.

He prepared the whole menu. It is just amazing. It is worth emphasizing to recommend their Yohoho Mango Rum. This rum completes the whole beach experience.

Siargao reminds me of a quote for every wanderer, “you always wanted to live in that one vacation you love the most”.

MetroMisc

10

Mezmerized with Polarized Media

It’s a fact: hundreds of couples get married every month. This makes the wedding industry bursting with business opportunities!

Because every couple wants to keep hold of their memories of their wedding, so as to be shared with family and friends, wedding photographers and videographers are there to make it happen.

Indeed, even a woman named Mia Reyes of Polarized Media ventured this craft and business.

Mia is someone who likes things spontaneous, explore other options in life, and do something different or new.

She actually graduated B.S. Biology at Central Philippine University, worked at SEAFDEC as technical assistant and eventually moved on in making comics before digging the wedding business.

“Mango Comics was looking for a female artist so I gave it a shot and then I was accepted. I was balancing my time with work and comics, and then I eventually joined Glass House Graphics, an international comics agency. A few years later, I decided to venture into photography and videography. The rest is history,” she stated.

Polarized Media started when a friend of hers asked if she shoot wedding videos because she was doing short films.

He asked Mia if she could shoot his sister’s wedding. Mia told him that she haven’t had any experience in shooting weddings, but still gave it a try, and then, before she knew it – “Hey! I’m having fun with this!”

So I decided to venture in wedding videography and photgraphy full time.”

she grinned.

Polarized Media was on for four years now. Usually after the shoot, Mia and her team would spend on video editing and post processing the photos.

Recalling her first few years, Mia recounted, “They all say that the first year in business is the hardest, and some business would usually fail if you don’t have patience. My first year was very difficult because the biggest challenge wass getting clients and we did not establish our names yet. So it came to the point where I was thinking ‘Am I in the right business?’ but I presevered until clients start walking in.”

Mia says that venturing into wedding photography and videography, one needs to be creative. It is the most important part because one must find ways to stand out.

“What makes you special among the others who offers the same services? You have to step up your game and always stand out be different,” she remarked.

Marketing skills is needed as well.

She noted to always find ways to market one’s self or one’s company because sitting and waiting for clients to come in won’t work. One has to be active in promoting and marketing his or her business.

But just like any other wedding photographer and videographer, the most challenging part is the shooting, because there are some things that are a bit challenging in a way that sometimes one is out of time because the flow of the wedding is shortened. “Sometimes, one have to be with the strict personnel of the church. They have so many rules. Also keep your team together,” she observed.

To define her success, one must

have faith.

“Have faith in yourself and have determination because in this line of field there are so many challenges, so many obstacles that you need to overcome, so you need to extend y o u r patience.

W h e n you start to doubt yourself and your s k i l l s constantly encourage yourself that you can do it.

You can get through with it,” Mia said.

She has survived so many challenges a n d would be expecting s o m e more. An advice f r o m her goes, “For those who are starting out in this line of business, note that events only happen once in a lifetime. You have to make sure everything is running. Never neglect your clients because you are shooting the most important day of their lives, so if you mess it up then not only your clients would be disappointed bbut it would stain your reputation as well. Make it perfect as possible.” IMT

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METRO SPORTS

June 1 - 7, 2014

11

Sta. Clarita Prime’s wins Mayor’s Cup 2014

BY ELYROSE S. NAORBE After a series of play-offs and crossover games, the Sta. Clarita Prime’s of Sta. Clarita International School proved that they are the strongest squad in the Mayor’s Cup 2014 after a huge run late in the second half as they bested Iloilo City National High School and were adjudged champion posting an 86-77 victory.

The crowd inside the Housing gym, Mandurriao became intense after a series of cheers and yells coming from both fans of both teams.

First quarter opened by an inside two from Duller (ICNHS) followed by a reverse lay-up from his teammate.

A three on one hassle defense of the ICNHS was felt by the prime’s early in the opening start but the former showed aggressiveness by a huge run and by converting shots inside the jumper. Good passing

under the basket by the ICNHS was observed as they made a crippling run to an 8-2 scoring.

At 5:33 left, a series of beautiful blocks from Lencioco (Prime’s) also created a good defense in the part

Bougainvillea...from page 1 city as a clean, vibrant place using a distinct brand name “Bongga Bella” for easy recall.

Iloilo City Tourism Officer Ben Jimena said, “Why bougainvillea? It’s a multicolored plant that is found in almost any area in Iloilo. It’s a plant that is resilient, descriptive of the character of Ilonggos and Filipinos [in general]. It is resilient in the sense that it adapts in situations that changes, it’s elastic in a sense you can form it into an arc and versatile as a hedge or fence. It is strong and easy to grow.

Jimena also stated that they are asking Councilor Lex Tupas to come up with a resolution adapting bougainvillea as the local flower of

Iloilo.

In a report handed by Jimena to Iloilo Metropolitan Times the main proponents of the project are the City Tourism and the Development Office of Iloilo City. Other groups involved are the following: Beautification Task Force, MIGEDC Tourism and Environment, Iloilo Tourism Officers Association, City Environment and Natural Resources Office, City Agricultural Office, Association of Plant Growers Garden Clubs, Public Info Office and Tri-Media, and the Association of Barangay Captains/ Local Chief Executive to encourage residents to plant bougainvillea in their residents and in their locality.

IMT

of his team. Despite of a back court violation committed by the Prime’s they came up for a great defense as they nailed a 22-10 first quarter.

Prime’s dominated the rebounds in the second through Lencioco’s defense. A lot of travelling violations were committed by the ICNHS. On the other hand, Prime’s two great players, Libanan and Cataluna both handed personal fouls. A chasing

lay-up from Bano came up to a 24-16. Both teams went wild as they entangled under the basket exchanging chili words to each other.

But most of the crowd cheered for the ICNHS. Those cheers established a good momentum as the favorite got some steals resulting to opponent’s turn-over. Mediodia (Prime’s) got some lay-up followed by Lencioco’s reverse. But a smart play coming from Allosada (ICNHS) narrowed the gap to a 10-point deficit. 13 seconds left in the second Mediodia was fouled but after a series of rebounds Lencioco got the ball and throw a two points, 35-29.

Castillion (ICNHS) close the score with a long two. Sampiano was called for a double dribble after a steal from an inbound pass. A shot from Canuday (ICNHS) secured a lay-up that forces the Prime’s to request a time out early in the third. Because of what he thinks unbelievable penalty called to his player, Prime’s coach kept on shouting to the referee and as result he was called for a technical foul. His team proved that they can handle the court as Bano launched a

WV goes...from page 1 Singapore on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. The flight will be operated by Airbus A319 and A320 aircraft, featuring both Business and Economy Class cabins SilkAir Chief Executive Leslie Thng, in his welcome ceremony address, said that SilkAir is committed to growing the demand for travel between Kalibo and Singapore.

“It’s a pleasure for us to finally here in this tourism gateway to the beautiful island of Boracay. We look forward to bringing in more

costumers to enjoy the beauty and diversity that this wonderful island has to offer,” Thng said.

“The launch of these direct flights to Kalibo highlights our commitment to the Philippine market” Singaporeans were among the region’s largest tourist group, according to the Department of Tourism Region 6.

The DOT-6 data showed that in 2013, there were 12,050 Singaporean tourists flew to Western Visayas.IMT

double triple but a good play in the last minute of the third was situated by the ICNHS to close the gap to 5651.

In the fourth quarter, a lay-up from Canuday added to their score, a triple from Dulce (Prime’s) extend the lead to four. In the middle of the game, both players of Prime’s had a miscommunication which resulted to another turn over. A turn around shot

by ICNHS brought back to a one possession game, 67-64.

After a hard foul of Dulce, the coach of ICNHS also keeps on yelling to his player that they need a sense of urgency but not to commit a foul.

But Allosada intentionally fouled Libanan and was fouled out in the ball game. Before the gameclock ends, Castillion also got his fourth. A steal from Dulce assisted with long pass to his teammate posted the lead up to 5 points. At 1:08 mark, a back court foul was committed by the ICNHS. With Dulce’s back to back two points, the ICNHS can’t stopped the great momentum and finally gave up giving the Sta. Clarita Prime’s a good play as the latter finished a top with 9 points lead. IMT

Seven out...from page 1 The three who said their eyes affirmed that 25% of their salary went to savings, 20% to food, 5% to transportation or commuting and the rest for other unforeseen expenditures.

One of them remarked that budgeting saves time and stress of having to balance funds one planned to allocate them for needs. It helped her achieve her long-term goals like going on a vacation or have a family treat. She noted that it could maybe cover her retirement plans.IMT

12

METRO SPORTS

June 1 - 7, 2014

Carney’s TNT debut failed ROS for seeking vengeance

BY ELYROSE S. NAORBE

Hitting shots outside the jumper, the Talk N’ Text Tropang Texters made some back to back threes late in the fourth to shrugged off Rain or Shine Elasto Painters (83-81) after a series of missed shots from the latter’s paint as coach Norman Black’s kids were able to advance the series in their Bakbakan sa Biñan Springboard to Success at Alonte Sports Arena in Laguna.

Despite of 18-hour travel, no practice and play straight right to the basket, Former NBA swingman Rodney Carney made his debut for the Texters after replacing Othyus Jeffers who ran into contract complications with the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Carney reportedly had just landed in the country an hour before their game and was unable to practice prior with the Texters.

Import Carney’s first attempt was an air ball as he started the opening with rough shots. On the other hand, Arizona Reid got two free throws after a foul on Nonoy Baclao.

A baseline shot from Reyes able to spoon inside the basket.

Paul Lee quick release for three gave his team to grab the lead. But a first two from Carney in his PBA game able to close the gap 5-4.

Baclao controlled the rebound in the first as Carney slowly adjusting in the leather. Larry Rodriguez able to peak four white shirted players and defensively shots the two but Alapag answered a long triple to extend the lead, 1312. TY tang also converted a triple to an early swing 1513 in favor for ROS. A technical foul was called to coach Yeng Guiao as Fonacier able to nail a technical free throw.

Almazan, though always lose his footing gave the Texters problem on the foul as he was challenged in the charity stripe for three consecutive times. With 10.4 seconds in the first, Canaleta fired off the three to post the 28-26 score.

Both teams were firing blanks committing air balls from the outside during the second, combining for just six field goals through seven minutes. Rain or Shine benefited from several Texters turnovers but could not grab the lead ahead. Carney hit a triple with 4:50 to play, and Talk ‘N Text maintained a 45-41 lead going into halftime.

A quick burst of speed was shown by Carney as he converted for some inside shots but after a call for a fourth personal foul on Baclao, Chan launches a three to read the fourth deadlock. Good assist from Reid gave Belga his first two. A quick lay-up from Reid followed by Chan’s easy two came up with a 6-0 run the TNT are over the foul as Williams called for his second and Canaleta for his fourth.

Canaleta initiated a triple just to narrow the gap to four points. But a buzzer beater jump shot by TY Tang again extend the lead. The TNT gunner scored eight of their last 10 points to help the Tropa cling to a 63-61 tally at the end of the third.

A steal by Carrey with a fast break pass to Fonacier came with an easy lay up to post another deadlock, 6363. A long three from Alapag grabbed the lead to three but Almazan sink a free throw. Alapag and Fonacier back to back threes were able to expand the lead but at 7:14 mark Fonacier could not find an open teammate resulting for Black to burn a time out.

Baclao slapped away the ball to Reid with five seconds left in the shot clock. A 24 second violation was called for Texters but they came up with a huge run as Castro’s long two scratched the lead to five following with Deocampo’s lay up to add a seven

point deficit.

Chan hit a triple with 30 seconds left to make it a one-possession game, 83-81, after a series of missed threes from his team.The Texters called timeout but couldn’t convert, and Chan drew a foul with 4.3 seconds left.

Rain or Shine inbounded the ball and got a wide-open look for a Paul Lee trey but did not go long. Ryan Reyes batted the ball out of bounds as Talk ‘N Text (2-1) moved into third place, tying Air21, Alaska, and San Mig Coffee.

Rain or Shine (1-3) fell to eighth place with Barako Bull.IMT