Iloilo Metropolitan Times Volume 2 Issue 57

METROPOLITAN

ILOILO

the first business newspaper in metro iloilo

TIMES

VOL. II ISSUE NO. 57

developmental news | critical views www.iloilometropolitantimes.com

March 16 - 22, 2014 Php 12.00

Malachi 4:2

But for you who revere my name, the sun of righteousness will rise with healing in its wings.

And you will go out and leap like calves released from the stall.

HISTORICAL EXCHANGE RATE Weekly MIDPOINT Rates - March 7-13, 2014

USD/PHP

44.6500 44.6000

44.6138

44.5988

44.5500 44.5000

44.5001

44.4500

44.4347

44.4313

44.4000 44.3500 Mar 7, 2014

44.3745 Mar 9, 2014

44.3870 Mar 11, 2014

Mar 13, 2014

DTI PRICE MONITORING Prime Commodities (25 Oct 2013) Prime Commodities (25 Oct 2013)

CANNED SARDINES Current Price INSTANT NOODLES Current Price

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

12.15 Lucky Me! (55g) 13.00 Payless (50g) 13.25

PROCESSED MILK Current Price

7.10 6.30 Current Price

BREAD

Alaska Sweetened Filled 49.50 Milk - Condensed 300 mL Pinoy Tasty (400g) Alaska Filled Milk 34.50 Pinoy Pandesal Evaporated 370 mL Angel Filled Milk Evaporated 410 mL

35.75

37.00

(pack of 10 pieces) 22.50

DA PRICE MONITORING Processed and Manufactured Commodities (25 Oct 2013) Processed and Manufactured Commodities (25 Oct 2013)

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

Current Price 35.00/kg 38.00/kg 42.00/kg 45.00/kg 45.00/kg 42.00/kg 38.00/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 120.00/kg 4.50/pc

CITY GETS P36 B 20.00

Current Price 120.00/kg

The National Historical Commission of the Philippines officially declares “Guho ng Kapilya ng Ermita” at Barangay Ermita, Dumangas, Ilolo a National Historical Landmark. Photo by Reymar Latoza

Drilon to ‘take a bath’ at Iloilo River

BY MONTESA GRIÑO-CAOYONAN Senate President Franklin Drilon will not let anyone swim at the Iloilo River unless it is already swimmable.

Drilon even offered himself to be the first person to swim at the river once it is already safe for everyone.

“I will not let anyone swim at the river unless I can swim”, he said to members of the Iloilo City Hall Press Corps (ICHPC) during the visit to the Senate in Manila.

The Environment Management Bureau (EMB-6) has categorized Iloilo River including those beaches directly connecting to the river with higher level of coliform bacteria.

Coliform is an organism present in the feces of all warm-blooded animals and humans that can cause skin diseases, cholera, diarrhea and other intestinal problem.IMT

BY MONTESA GRIÑO-CAOYONAN

Five prospective domestic and foreign investors pledged P 31. 48 billion investments in Iloilo City during the ‘Iloilo Means Business Investment Forum’ held in Makati recently.

Among these prospective investors are Palm Concepcion Power Corp. that will put up 270-megawatt power plant complex in Concepcion, Iloilo and with investment value of P12.5 billion; Global Business Power Corp. that will have an expansion of power plant complex in La Paz, Iloilo City and

with investment value of P15 billion; Energy Renewables Asia, Inc. that will invest 6.5 megawatt photovoltaic solar power plant in Jaro, Iloilo City and with investment value of P0.63 billion; Intracare, Inc. that will construct all suites luxury hotel with international celebrity chefs and investment value of P0.1 billion and Double Dragon Properties Corp. that will construct five city malls with floor areas of 5,000 – 10,000 sq. m. and with investment value of P1.4 billion.

City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog City gets /p11

Iloilo City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog with Ayala Land Inc. president and CEO of Antonio T. Aquino; Global Business Power Corp chairman Francisco Sebastian; Phinma Inc. CEO, President Ramon R. del Rosario Jr., president and CEO of Phinma Inc.; first Megaworld Corp VP and head of the Commercial Division Kevin Andrew L. Tan; and Injap Investments Inc. CEO Edgar Sia II and other dignitaries during the ‘ILOILO means BUSINESS’ investment forum at Intercontinental Hotel, Makati recently.

WV sugar at bitter risk

BY REYMAR LATOZA The sugar industry is among the most vulnerable sectors in the region to be most likely affected by establishment of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Economic Community (AEC) in 2015, according to the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) 6.

AEC 2015 is the regional economic policy of Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Brunei, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar and Cambodia which aims to achieve regional cohesiveness and enhance global competitiveness.

The Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) also manifested that the insufficient and uncompetitive sectors are most likely to be the losers in the establishment of the AEC in 2015.

Engineer Gilberto Altura, president of the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) said

that firms in the country that are not gaining from market expansion and not improving competitiveness will suffer as they face difficulties along the way.

“Sugar leaders in the region are worried because the sugar industry is perceived by many as uncompetitive and it will not survive the competition,” Ro-Ann Bacal, chairperson, Regional Development Council (RDC) VI and regional director, NEDA-6 said.

Although sugar is the region’s major product, but compare to other countries especially Thailand, the region’s sugar industry is lagging behind.

Bacal emphasized that the creation of AEC through the initiative for ASEAN Integration has implications in the activities and developments more particularly in the country’s regions including WV.IMT

Reluctant banks fail MSME

BY REYMAR LATOZA

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Gazebo

Financial issues due to the lack of government support remained to be the primary constraint to the growth of micro, small, and medium enterprise sector (MSME) in the country.

“The overall MSME performance of our country has been subdued. It is not growing and not making substantial impact to the economy,” said Dr. Rafaelita Aldaba, senior research fellow of the Philippine Institute of Development Studies (PIDS) during the Western Visayas Forum on AEC 2015 held recently.

Aldaba said that despite the availability of funds, access is still difficult for MSMEs in our country.

“More banks are reluctant to lend to MSMEs because of insufficient collateral, poor credit history, and insufficient sales, income or cash flow,” Aldaba said.

Based on a study, the fund from banking sector is 12 to 21 percent of the capital raised by small and medium enterprises (SMEs), with the international

A tomato vendor hopes to sell all his ends. benchmark of 30%.

Despite the yearly government programs such as Magna Carta for SMEs, PCFC-micro finance,

vegatable products before the day SB Corporation and Philexim SULONG, the lending gap, P67P108B or $1.5B- $4B, remained distant. IMT

METRO NEWS

2

METRO

on the road

POEA Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) imposed a temporary ban on the deployment of Filipino migrant workers intending to work in Venezuela due to the current tensions in the country.PIA6

PVO The Iloilo Provincial Veterinary Office (PVO) and DA-6 initiated a “Cash-for-Work” program under Super typhoon Yolanda Rehab Plan for Livestock and Poultry. POV asst chief Dr. Darel Tabuada said the cash-for-work program will cover 11 towns in the 5th district plus Passi City and Bingawan in the 3rd district. He said trained vaccinator and livestock aide will be performing vaccinations and will be paid for ten days.PIA6

IPPO The Iloilo Provincial Police Office (IPPO) activated its Provincial Advisory Council for Police Transformation and Development (PAC-PTD).

IPPO Director Cornelio Salinas said PAC-PTD is composed of individuals from both government and private sectors who will serve as guide in enhancing the capability of provincial cops.PIA6

Provincial News The Iloilo provincial government said a total of 130 fishermen from the towns of Ajuy and Estancia, who were affected by super typhoon Yolanda, received engines and other materials for the construction of their new pump boats. These donations came from various donors and were facilitated by the Iloilo Federation of FilipinoChinese Chamber of Commerce.

PIA6

PRO 6

Policemen in Iloilo City were awarded recently for their exemplary performance at PRO6 headquarters, Camp Delgado.

Police S/Insp. Kenneth Militar and members of the Iloilo City Anti-Illegal Drugs Special Operations Task Group were awarded with the PNP Medal of Commendation for their exemplary competence and commendable performance in the arrest of Roy delos Reyes who was wanted for illegal possession of firearms. PIA6

Guv sells Iloilo tourism

BY MONTESA GRIÑO-CAOYONAN Iloilo remains to be the destination of choice for local and international tourists as it offers many potential tourism destinations for interested investors.

Gov. Arthur Defensor Sr. said the

province is mostly hosting centuryold churches, heritage structures, and pristine white sand beaches particularly in the northern part of Iloilo that could attract both domestic and foreign investors and developers.

Among these destinations are the

Gov’t provides assistance thru inter-gov’t initiatives

BY ABIGAIL VILLAMOR The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in partnership with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is setting about on a resort program called Reconstruction Assistance on Yolanda or RAY, a project of the national government.

In December 2013, a month after super typhoon Yolanda raked Visayas, DOLE and DOST analyzed that RAY will benefit the vulnerable and poor workers, including those unsettled by calamities, man-made or natural, and also overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) and their families that were disestablished.

RAY will give special attention to the communities wrecked by Yolanda, and will provide them employment and sustainable livelihood as they recover from the devastation of the super typhoon.

The resort program led by entrepreneurship through innovation is expected to create sustainable livelihood and employment opportunities.

The DOLE, DOST, Department of Agriculture (DA), and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) have partnered and committed to implement the program through conducting various trainings on product development and packaging, good manufacturing practices, product costing and pricing, marketing, material treatment and fishing techniques, dyeing and designs, and other entrepreneurial strategies.

The different agencies involved in the proposed project will lead to the rehabilitation of various industries that will create strong and sustainable communities: DOST for the dried fish industry, DA for the poultry and livestock industry which focus on the meat processing, the DTI for

the indigenous fibers and handicrafts production, and DOLE for the municipal muscovado production.

Yolanda survivors in the municipalities of Concepcion, Estancia, Carles, San Dionisio and Ajuy in Iloilo province, the cities of Sagay, Cadiz, and Escalante in Negros Occidental, Roxas City in Capiz, and Tibiao and Culasi in Antique will benefit the rehabilitation of the dried fish industries, and of poultry and livestock industries.

The weavers’ association in the municipalities of Ibajay, Libacao, Banga, Numancia and Kalibo in Aklan will benefit the rehabilitation of indigenous fibers and handicrafts production.

The rehabilitation of municipal muscovado production will assist the Laua-an Multi-Purpose Cooperative in Laua-an, Antique. The DOST will be introducing technology that will add value to the products; processing of organically grown chicken and swine, dried fish with herbs, vacuumpacked dried fish and sediment-free muscovado packed in sachet.

Preliminary activities have already been undertaken by involved and concerned agencies based on their given timelines to ensure the successful implementation of the program. The DOLE, DOST, in partnership with the DA and DTI, and with the support of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) and Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) have collectively agreed and pledged to extend full cooperation in the promotion and pursuit of the implementation and advocacy of this convergence program on innovation, sustainable and resourse-based livelihood.

The RAY program will be implemented starting this year, 2014, up to the year 2016.IMT

‘Street Food Kulinarya’, a first in Iloilo City

heritage church in Miag-ao which has become one of the most-photographed houses of worship in the country and Boracay-like beaches of Sicogon and Isla Gigantes, all in northern Iloilo that are potential areas for investment.

“There are numerous heritage structures scattered San Joaquin Cemetery is one of the famous landmarks around Iloilo but I in the Province of Iloilo take pride of our ongoing initiative development of the tourism sector in of restoring and rehabilitating two northern Iloilo. heritage structures owned by the Northern Iloilo has 11 provincial government of Iloilo which municipalities with islands hosting are the old Iloilo Provincial Capitol and beautiful white sand, beaches, coral the old Provincial Jail of Iloilo”, he said reefs, caves and sandbars. These are the during an investment opportunities most visited destinations in 2012 and forum at the Intercontinental, Manila. 2013 in the province.

Defensor said they are bringing Ajuy has seven islands, back the colonial architecture of the old Concepcion has 16, Estancia has six Iloilo Provincial Capitol, which is the and Carles has 29 islands. seat of power of provincial government The governor assured investors and a very visible landmark of Iloilo that their investments are safe with City. them as they continue to banner “We are also converting the old a graft-free governance as its main jail which was built in 1911 into a commitment accompanied with its regional museum to showcase our policy of reform and change. rich cultural heritage and we are Defensor said the provincial closely coordinating with the National investments promotion code Historical Commission of the establishes a favorable and stable Philippines in this endeavor”, he said. policy on business with tax incentives Also, part of the Iloilo’s local reaching to as much as 100 percent economic development initiative is the reduction.IMT

Economic integration to bring inclusive growth

BY REYMAR LATOZA Secretary for Socio-Economic Planning and NEDA Director General Arsenio Balisacan said that ASEAN 2015 Integration will bring to the table opportunities that can help the country in achieving inclusive growth or growth that creates jobs and reduces poverty incidence.

“The ASEAN agreed to select priority sectors which shall be liberalized ahead of the other sectors in order to achieve regional cohesiveness and enhance global competitiveness,” Balisacan said.

These priority sectors include agrobased products, air travel, automotives, e-ASEAN, electronics, fisheries, healthcare, rubber-based products, textiles and apparels, tourism, wood based products and logistic services.

The government will also promote sub-sectors which have the most

potential to contribute to employment generation. These are the agro-industry (coconut coffee, cacao, fisheries and forestry), manufacturing (food, garments, wood furniture and fixtures and halal food industry), tourism, IT-BPM, construction and logistics subsectors.

The ASEAN Economic Integration in 2015 will stand on three pillars: political security community, ASEAN socio-cultural, social and economic community.

The goal is to transform ASEAN into a single market and production base. Under the AEC vision, goods, investment and capital flow freely, but growth is inclusive, with small and medium enterprises thriving despite the competition.

In 2015, the Philippines will be serving at least 600 million people with a combines Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of $2.3 trillion.IMT

DepEd opens summer employment

BY REYMAR LATOZA

DepEd

Literacy Coordinating Council Secretariat Head Dr. Norma Salcedo led the regional orientation on the 2014 National Literacy Awards held today, March 11 at DepEd regional office in Iloilo City with partner agencies, local government units and non government organizations in preparation for the awards in September. PIA6

March 16 - 22, 2014

The Department of Tourism (DOT) conducts ‘Street Food Kulinarya’ Seminar on food safety and handling among market and sidewalk vendors in Iloilo City.

BY KHARIZA JOY SOFIA dishes/sellers and budgeting.

‘Street Food Kulinarya’, a two-day Activities on the second day seminar on food safety and handling comprise hands-on cooking demo under the projects implemented by per product, food presentation, food the Iloilo Business Club (IBC) in service, and table-setting workshop. cooperation with the Department of Iloilo City Tourism Officer Ben Tourism (DOT) 6, was held recently. Jimena added that the seminar is part of DOT regional director Helen Catalbas the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation said the seminar is a first in the city.

(APEC) preparation. He revealed The seminar gave emphasis on street that aside from the training, two of food safety and handling for vendors Iloilo City’s prime universities are also occupying pavements and sidewalks. It conducting seminars attended by chefs comprise lectures on sanitation permits and restaurant owners. and other concerns such as health In two months time, the city will certificates and sanitation standards, conduct training for the Halal food Iloilo Street Food Festival, inventory of preparation.IMT

Thousands of students nationwide will be given the opportunity to earn extra money this summer vacation through the Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES) of the Department of Education (DepEd).

Spearheaded by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) with the support of other government agencies, the summer employment program aims to make the students’ vacation productive by earning earn extra money which they can use during regular school days.

All qualified student applicants will be working for 30 days and will be paid minimum wage and an additional daily allowance.

Based on the issued guidelines of the DepEd’s Center for Students and Co-Curricular Affairs (CSCA,) SPES trainees must be students or out-of-

school youths, at least 18 years-old but not more than 25 years-old, enrolled this school year (in-school) or if not, must have intention to enroll next school year (out-of-school); parents with combined annual net income must exceeding P143,000, must possess office skills with priority given to those with computer-related skills.

Application form is downloadable from http: //tinyurl. com/ DepEdSPES2014.

Submission of document may be thru email via scanned documents (zip file) with your Name and Date of Submission to youthformation@ deped.gov.ph. They may also send your certified true copy of documents enclosed in a brown envelope with your Name and Date of Submission.

The deadline for the submission of application is set to end on March 22, 2014.IMT

March 16 - 22, 2014

METRO BUSINESS

3

Sin tax wins World Bank support

BY KHARIZA JOY SOFIA

World Bank, citing its successful implementation and benefits to the youth, the poor, health, economy, farmers, governance, and the future, hailed Philippines’ sin tax law a ‘win-win’ policy. The bank revealed that international organizations and other Asia-Pacific countries are now considering the tax regime.

Jim Brumby, World Bank sector manager for poverty reduction and economic management mentioned it was the most important result of the recently concluded East Asia and Pacific Regional workshop on Tobacco and Alcohol Tax Reform.

Brumby said the tax regulation is very efficient in lessening smoking incidents in the country, at the same time increasing the revenue of the government.

“I would like to acknowledge the monumental success of the Philippine government in pushing through with the sin tax reform. Tobacco and alcohol taxation is truly a win-win policy. A win for revenues, and a win for public health,” Brumby said.

Every year, 5.4 million persons all over the world die because of tobacco.

The World Bank said without urgent action, annual death toll might rise to over 8 million by the year 2030.IMT

Imports hurt local newsprint and galvanized iron industry

BY REYMAR LATOZA The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) expects a complete preliminary investigation on imported newsprint and galvanized iron (GI) and pre-painted galvanized iron (PPGI) before the month ends.

DTI Bureau of Import Services director Luis Catibayan stated in a report of phil.STAR.com that they want to complete the recommendationsto impose safeguard measures on imports of the said products.

The safeguard measures aim to protect local producers from the effects of increasing imports of newsprint, GI, and PPGI sheets.

Preliminary investigation begun on September 20, 2013 after the Trust International Paper Co. (TIPCO) and Puyat Steel Corp. filed petitions seeking to impose safeguard measures on newsprint, GI and PPGI sheets respectively.

TIPCO Claims that newsprint imports are seriously hurting the local newsprint production in the country.

“Increased imports have caused serious injury to the local newsprint industry as indicated in their declining market share, production, sales, capacity utilization, productivity, profitability, price suppression, depression and undercutting,” TIPCO said.IMT

Filipinos have an advantage in terms of English language proficiency with the coming of the Association of Southeast Asian nations (ASEAN) integration in 2015.

The ASEAN envisions an economic community (EC) in 2015 characterized by a single market and production base, competitive economic region, equitable economic development, and integrated into the global economy.

In a press briefing for the Western Visayas forum on AEC 2015 held Tuesday, Dr. Gilberto Llanto, President of the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS), said that Filipinos in the entire country and in Western Visayas have quite an edge in the English language proficiency given that we have very good educational institutions here.

Llanto said that business process outsourcing (BPO) firms relocate in the

country not only because of our proficiency in the English language but due to our familiarity with the Western culture.

“Most of these BPOs serve customers located in North America and Europe and that is quite an advantage for we easily relate to them,” he said.

“Other countries may develop proficiency but if they don’t understand the culture then that would be considered a handicap,” he also said.

He emphasized that the country being a free economy, our access to media, the Internet and foreign television shows work to our advantage in English language proficiency.

He stressed, however, that there have been reports that there is a need to step up our efforts to improve our language proficiency for in some schools the language is taught below the expected standards. (JSC/LTPPIA6 Iloilo)

English proficiency, Filipinos’ edge

ASEAN Economic Community losers

investment and capital flow freely, but growth is inclusive, with small and medium enterprises thriving despite the competition.

According to (PIDS), they have concluded that “overall, the Philippines has demonstrated its commitment to ‘AEC Blueprint’, as indicated in the measures that have been implemented over 2008-2011. “ Arsenio Balisacan, secretary for Socio-Economic Planning and directorgeneral, National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) said that ASEAN 2015 Integration brings to the table opportunities that can WV FORUM ON AEC 2015. From left to right: Dr. Roehlano Briones, Philippine help the country in achieving Institute for Development Studies (PIDS), Dr. Gilberto Llanto, President, PIDS, Dr. inclusive growth or growth Rafaelita Aldaba, PIDS, and Dr. Adoracion Navarro, PIDS. that creates jobs and reduces

BY REYMAR LATOZA fall behind are mass media (no foreign poverty incidence. equity); private communications Balisacan said that the 12 Insufficient and uncompetitive network (up to 20%); private priority sectors include agro-based sectors are most likely to be the losers recruitment agencies (up to 25%); products, air travel, automotives, in the establishment of the Association advertising companies (up to 30%); e-ASEAN, electronics, fisheries, of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) development utilization of natural healthcare, rubber-based products, Economic Community (AEC) in resources; Operation and management textiles and apparels, tourism, 2015. of public utilities; ownership/ wood based products and logistic Engineer Gilberto Altura, establishment and administration services. president of the Philippine Institute of educational institutions; culture, “The ASEAN agreed to select for Development Studies (PIDS) said production, milling, processing, priority sectors which shall be that firms in the country that are not trading, excepting ratailing of rice, liberalized ahead of the other sectors in gaining from market expansion and and corn; BOT requiring public order to achieve regional cohesiveness not improving competitiveness will utilities franchise; operation of deep and enhance global competitiveness,” suffer as they face difficulties along the sea commercial fishing vessel and Balisacan said. way.

Contracts for supply of materials, The government will also Altura cited the retail trade goods, and commodities to GOCCs promote subsectors which have enterprises with paid up capital of or municipal corporations. the most potential to contribute to $2,500,000.

Nine months from now, the 10 employment generation. These are the In the region, sugar sector is countries comprising the (ASEAN) agro-industry (coconut coffee, cacao, seen to be affected by the ASEAN will converge to become an ASEAN fisheries and forestry), manufacturing Integration as it is perceived not as Economic Community. (food, garments, wood furniture and competitive as compared with other The goal is to transform ASEAN fixtures and halal food industry), ASEAN countries. into a single market and production tourism, IT-BPM, construction and Other services that are seen to base. Under the AEC vision, goods, logistics subsectors.IMT

More jobs for WV in 2014

BY KHARIZA JOY SOFIA More than P144-million has been allocated by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) region 6 for the enhancement of the employment facilitation and livelihood programs.

The said move expects to provide jobs and lessen poverty rate.

Government Internship Program (GIP) and Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES), the agency’s bridging program for the

poor, will receive the biggest share from the budget, while the remaining will go to the DOLE’s livelihood program, according to DOLE 6 regional director PoncianoLigutom.

Ligutom said each of the 18 congressional districts in the region will get P3.5-million to create programs that will employ 18 to 25 years old workers in both national and local government agencies for six months.

This year, SPES aims to have 9,950 beneficiaries to receive a total of P22.650-million from the allocated budget.

Ligutom added the remaining P58.3-million will aid in creating different livelihood projects under the DOLE Integrated Livelihood Program, Bottom-Up Budgeting, Emergency, Employment Program and Reconstruction Assistance on Yolanda (RAY).IMT

of sourcing and transporting raw materials,” she added.

With these problems, Aldaba believed that it is very important for the government intervene and shift their focus on the promotion and the development of our MSMEs. “If you look at the experiences of other country, MSMEs have really driven their growth, their success and their development, but looking at our own experience, it is much different,” Aldaba said.

In a report she presented MSMEs constitute the bulk of enterprises, m o s t l y comprising more than 99% of all enterprises and it employs more than 60% of the workforce.

Arsenio

Balisacan, secretary for SocioEconomic Planning and directorgeneral of the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) said MSMEs is one of the main priorities of the government this year to ensure sustained progress and to attain full benefits of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Economic Community (AEC) in 2015.

“The government will expand MSMEs access to finance through programs such as the BSP’s Credit Surety Program,” he said.IMT

Food and beverages concern FDA Structure of PH enterprises not dynamic, says PIDS

BY KHARIZA JOY SOFIA Public has been advised that the Food Industries, Inc., recalled its Nagaraya Cracker Original Butter Flavor Nut identified under Lot No. 14019, with expiry date 01242015F due to high level of Aflatoxin.

The recall is only applicable to the specified product under the mentioned lot number. Other Nagaraya variants and sizes are free from the retraction.

According to the Department of Health (DOH) 6 licensing and regulatory division chief Delia Tarrosa, too much intake of aflatoxin can lead to cancer of the liver. A certain fungi or molds that grow in foods like peanuts, tree nuts, corn, wheat and seed oils stored under conditions of warmth and humidity produce aflatoxin.

Tarrosa said that aflatoxin is a common occurring contaminant in foods like Nagaraya.

“There are unavoidable contaminants that occur during harvest, storage and processing of foods”, he added.

In connection, the licensing and regulatory division is accepting

BY REYMAR LATOZA

complaints about beverages containing wastes and other similar cases. Tarrosa declared they have means to find out whether the bottle was opened or it is the manufacturers’ mistake.

“Although we are monitoring soft drinks companies in school, we are still trying to figure out how possible it is for insects and some wastes to enter a bottle of beverage”, Tarrosa explained.

Tarrosa disclosed that consumers have to send their concern to the concerned store first before lifting it to her department.IMT

The structure of Philippine enterprises need changes to propel the micro, small, medium enterprises (MSMEs), according to Dr. Rafaelita Aldaba, senior research fellow of the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS).

“Our structure is so unbalanced…. not dynamic and for us to grow we need dynamism,” Aldaba said “Many are not graduating from micro, from small, and some remained in medium enterprise…..the movement is so slow,” she added.

Aside from lack of access to finance, Aldaba also cited other constraints to MSMEs growth such as the lack of access to technology and skills, availability of inputs and supply chain problems.

“Many are not knowledgeable on technology and we are lack of support facilities like testing centers,” Aldaba said.

“High cost to access raw materials and inputs due to the problem

METRO ROUND-UP

4

March 16 - 22, 2014

MIWD: NO WATER RATE HIKE

The Metro Iloilo Water District (MIWD) assured the consuming public that there will be no water rate increase despite the P39-million deficit the water utility is facing.

MIWD Board chairman Dr. Danilo Encarnacion issued this assurance during the congressional hearing held Thursday at the Iloilo Provincial Capitol.

Encarnacion said that they are finding means to augment the revenue of MIWD but they will not resort to increasing the water rates.

He said that one way to improve their revenue is by rehabilitating MIWD’s water treatment plant in Sta. Barbara, Iloilo that can provide an additional 30,000 cubic meters which

can ease the water crisis in MIWD’s service area.

He said that it will only take four to six months to be able to develop the plant but they lack funds for the additional facilities and equipment.

The MIWD board chairman also reported that the water district has P39 million deficit in cash flow when the newly reinstated board assumed office in January 3, 2014.

He said they cannot manage to pay the suppliers in one-time payment but offered liberal possibilities as a win-win solution that covers extension of the contract, reformation and improvement of the contract.

The MIWD board also offered to pay an initial amount of P4 million

cash payment while the balance will be paid on installment basis with interest.

Meanwhile, Roger Florete of Flo Water Resources Inc, said they are willing to help MIWD but it must honor its contract.

According to the bulk water supply contract, Flo Water is expected to deliver 15,000 cubic meters daily to MIWD. However, the water district can only receive 5,000 cubic meters due to mismatch in the sizes of their pipes.

The diameter of the MIWD pipe in Leganes is only 200 millimeters while Flo Water uses an 800-millimeter.

The MIWD said that they are finding means to inject the entire 15,000 cubic meters daily to MIWD lines. (JCM/LTP/PIA-Iloilo)

Dumangas’ “Guho ng Kapilya ng Ermita” historical marker unveiled

Markets and slaughterhouse under tight watch

BY MONTESA GRIÑO-CAOYONAN The Iloilo City’s Local Economic Enterprise Office (LEEO) will come up with the investigation on the possible electric pilferage or jumpers within the seven public markets and slaughterhouse.

This, after the city government owed Panay Electric Company (PECO) more than P 16 million electricity bills on the operations of these markets.

City Legal Officer Atty. Daniel Denopol said they come up with the suspicious thought after they found out several electric bills without corresponding amount were issued by the Iloilo Electric Company (Ileco) to the City’s slaughterhouse based in Brgy. Tacas, Jaro district here.

“The bills only show the total kilowatt- hour used but there is no corresponding amount of how much is it. The amount should reflect on the

bill as basis of their payment”, he said.

The legal officer added that they will recommend the newlycreated market committee to ask Ileco of the slaughterhouse’s previous bills for comparative Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog inspects the slaugherhouse at Brgy. Tacas, Jaro Iloilo City. A file photo by iloilodaily.com purposes.

Regularly, the slaughterhouse is Vincent de la Cruz who was recently catering at least 200 heads of pig, cattle relieved from his post and reassigned and carabao per day. Each 50 kilos of at the mayor’s office while markets and butchered meat has corresponding slaughterhouse inspection is ongoing. fee of P 155.00 as fees for slaughter, City Administrator Norlito permit, post and anti- mortem.

Bautista replaced de la Cruz as LEEO The slaughterhouse which is under officer-in-charge while executive the “Double A” standard category is assistant and former city councilor Ely formerly managed by Market Supervisor Estante as the LEEO point person.IMT

BY REYMAR LATOZA The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NCHP) in cooperation with the Municipality of Dumangas, Iloilo unveiled the historical marker, declaring the “Guho ng Kapilya ng Ermita” a national historical landmark, March 13, 2014.

Situated in Barangay Ermita, the Ermita Shrine, made of nipa, was built in 1569 by father Juan de Alva O.S.A. Ludovico Dadoy, executive director of NCHP led the ceremony dubbed as “Paghahawi ng Tabing ng Panandang Pangkasaysayan: GUHO

NG KAPILYA NG ERMITA, which was witnessed by Dumangas Vice Mayor Ian Dalutan II, Architect Veronica Dado, NHCP, Rev. Fr.Jhon Taclain, San Agustin catholic Church, and $th district Board Member Carmen Rita Monfort-Bautista.

In 1572, the said church was rebuilt using stones but it was razed by fire in 1628. After the reconstruction, the church was again crashed by an earthquake in 1787.

On August 28, 1989, it was declared by the National Historical Institute (now NHCP) as a national shrine.

New Lucena PWD program gains international recognition

BY KHARIZA JOY SOFIA The Municipality of New Lucena has reached greater heights in terms of governance.

Mayor Liecel Mondejar-Seville boasts the huge decrease in her town’s poverty rate from 29 percent to 16.8 percent with all their projects and accomplishments leading to the improvement of life of the people.

“We are doing our best to lower the poverty rate. Hopefully it will, because all our programs are in accordance to the needs of our people”, Seville said.

New Lucena has received prestige awards including the Excellence Award and Grand Award from the International Association for Universal Design (IAUD) for pioneering the Non Handicapped Environment to Persons with Disabilities in Rural Areas.

Seville revealed they want to remove the barriers between the PWDs and the community in terms of system and facilities and improve the thoughts of the community towards the PWDs. “This is to recognize the rights of our PWDs and provide access to facilities, information and programs in our municipality”, Seville explained.

Mayor Seville on the other hand mentioned agriculture as one of their primary concentrations by promoting organic agriculture.

“We are talking to our farmers and become responsive to their needs”, she added.

New Lucena has already achieved the Hall of Fame Award

for the Most Child-friendly Municipality. Being enthusiastic in sports is not the only activity they encourage the youth to go into, but also providing awareness on the disadvantages of having vices, taking drugs and teenage pregnancy through forums.

The town has recorded low crime-related incidence for the past years.

On the recent 2013 Search for Excellence in Local Governance Award (EXCELL Awards), New Lucena snatched the top spot on five out of six categories, including Excellence in Valuing Fundamentals of Good Governance; Excellence in Administrative Governance; Excellence in Economic Governance, Excellence in Environmental Governance; and is hailed as the Best Performing LGU in the whole Western Visayas. The town garnered first runner-up on Excellence in Social Governance and 1st place on Solid Waste Management in the whole Province of Iloilo.

The municipal mayor admits there are still gray areas that need room for improvements and they will keep on developing these areas to maintain their seal of good housekeeping award.

Seville revealed that the secret to the peace and order of her town lies on the concerted effort and strong leaders implementing the programs.

“Our position is only temporary, so we have to make the best out of it”, she disclosed.

REGION VI

Aklan • Antique • Capiz • Guimaras • Iloilo • Negros Occidental Iloilo City • Bacolod City

TOP “MUST-EXPERIENCE” TOURIST ATTRACTIONS

Aklan

Sta. Monica Church, Panay, Capiz

Piña Weaving, Aklan

Capiz

Tel. No.: (+63 36) 621 004 Telefax No.: (+63 36)2 local 133 621 2935 Email: capiz.tourism@ yah Website: www.capiz.oo.com gov.ph

1. Baybay Beach, Roxas City 2. Sta. Monica Ch urch, Museum and Bell, Panay 3. Agtalin Shrine, Dulangan, Pilar 4. Suhot Cave an d Spring, Dumalag 5. River Tours (P anay, Cadimahan, Pa lina) Roxas City 6. Hinulugan Falls , Pilar 7. Basiao Beach, Ivisan 8. Our Lady of Lo urdes Grotto Medita tion Hills, Maninang , Sa pian 9. CAPIZtahan (F oundation Day Commemoration of th e Ci Capiz, 2nd week of Ap vil Government of ril) and Sinadya sa Halaran (1st week of Decembe r)

Guimaras

ihan Festival 1. Kalibo Sto. Niño Ati-At (3rd weekend of January) 2. Boracay Island, Malay galan 3. Jawili Falls, Jawili, Tan an, Malay un tip Ka ve, 4. Pangihan Ca Buruanga 5. Ariel’s Point, Alegria, cion, Balete bla Po 6. Basura Garden, gtong BatoBu , jay 7. Katunggan it Iba jay Naisud, Iba ry (La Herminia, 8. Piña Weaving Indust Dela Cruz Heritage Arts and Crafts, House of Piña) rden, New 9. Aklan Sampaguita Ga Washington

Antique

1. Caluya Group of Islands, Caluya 2. Bugang River & Malumpati Cold Spring (from Brgy. Guia to Brgy. Sto. Rosario and ends in Brgy.

Zaldivar, Pandan) 3. Igpasungaw Falls, Igpasungaw, Seba ste, Antique 4. Malalison Island, Culasi 5. Bagtason Patadyong Weaving, Bagt ason, Bugasong 6. Aningalan, San Remigio 7. Binirayan Festival, San Jose (Last week of December) 8. Nogas Island, Anini-y 9. Tibiao Eco-Adventure Park, Tibi ao

-1134 Tel. No.: (+63 33) 237 -1111 Fax No.: (+63 33) 237o.com rism@yaho Email: guimarastou uimaras.gov.ph Website: www.g

l (3rd week of April) Manggahan Festiva od Friday) laan Bukid (Every Go Ang Pagtaltal sa Ba s tery, Jordan, Guimara Old Trappist Monas imaras Gu , cia eas, Nueva Valen Alubihod Beach Ar rm and Fa rs de uit (Guimaras Won nter in Ce t Agri-Tourism Circ en m lop search and Deve Re go an M l na tio Na , SEAFDEC Farm in San Lorenzo Jordan, Sebario Salt in Nueva Aqua-Culture Farm Marine Reserve and ) Orchard in Sibunag Valencia, Southern aras Shrine, Jordan, Guim 6. Bala-an Bukid s ara im Gu a, a, Buenavist 7. Roca Encantad aras im Gu , ills, San Lorenzo 8. Holy Family H cia Guimaras len Va Tour, Nueva, oEc g wi ala M ba 9. Su

Tel. No.: (+63 33) 540 7110 Email: antique_philippines@yahoo.com Website: www.antique.gov.ph

Igpasungaw Falls, S

ebaste, Antique

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2.

3.

4.

5.

Iloilo Golf and Country Club, Sta. Barbara, Iloilo

The Ruins, Talisay City, Negros Occiden tal

3 34) 433-2515 Telefax No.: (+6 cc@yahoo.com ego _n rism tou ail: Em cc.gov.ph ourism.negros-o Website: www.t

Negros ntal Occide

Tel. No.: (+63 36) 262 4692 8033 Telefax No.: (+63 36) 268 .ph o.com Email: aklantourism@yaho n.gov.ph Website: www.akla

n trail), ia the Guintubda (v on la an K t.

1. M La Carlota City uins, Talisay s, Silay and the R se ou H al tr es nc 2. A ort, Murcia Mambukal Res of s ng ri Sp ur 3. Sulf ve sites, Sipalay beaches and di , 4. White sand Marine Reser ve at Carbin Reef 5. Snorkeling Sagay City erve, Cauayan land Marine Res 6. Danjugan Is rias, Bacolod f Courses, Victo ol G e ol -h 18 7. ) and Murcia nd week of April egros Festival (2 N sa ad na Pa 8.

Benedicto; y, Don Salvador 9. R apha Valle , Victorias City; May ’s Organic Peñalosa Farm d City Garden, Bacolo

Iloilo

Guimaras Mangoes

Telefax No.: (+63 33) 338 4910 Email: iloiloprovincialtourism@gmail.com Website: www.iloilo.gov.ph

1. Heritage Churches of Southern and Central Iloilo (Leon, Pavia, Cabatuan, Sta. Barbara, Tigbauan, Guimbal, Miag-ao and San Joaquin Chruches) 2. Coral gardens of San Joaquin, Banate, Concepcion, and Carles 3. Carabao-Carroza Festival, Pavia (3rd of May) 4. Weaving, pottery, metalcraft, bamboocraft, bobbin lace making, and food industries, Southern and Central portion of the province 5. Hiking, spelunking, and mountain biking in Alimodian, Dingle, Passi City Igbaras, and Leon 6. Waterfalls of Lambunao, Alimodian, and Igbaras 7. Iloilo Golf and Countr y Club, Sta. Barbara 8. Island hopping in Concepcion, Ajuy and Carles 9. Resort hopping in Southern, Central, and Northern Iloilo

Bacolod City

Tel. No.: (+63 34) 434 6751 Telefax. No.: (+63 34) 708 3066 Email: bacolodcitytourismoffice@gmail.com Website: www.bacolodcity.gov.ph

Iloilo City

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2.

3.

4.

5.

Tel. No.: (+63 33) 333 1111 loc. 512 Telefax No.: 336 Email: benitojimena@yaho 3439 o.com Website: www.iloilocity.gov. ph

City Gallery, Iloilo City Ha ll, Plaza Libertad Complex Calle Real Museo Iloilo, Bonifacio Dr ive 19th centur y Casa Mariq uit, Santa Isabel Street, Jar o Hablon weaving at the Sin amay House in Osmena Street, Arevalo and barqu illos makers at Deocamp o’s in Santa Isabel Street, Jaro 6. Magnificent churches ( Jaro Metropolitan Cathe dral in E. Lopez Street, Jaro; San ta Ana Parish Church in Molo; Santo Nino de Areval o Parish Church in Villa, Arevalo; Iglesia de San Jos e de Placer in Calasanz Street, City Proper; and ma ny more).

7. Ilonggo’s seafoods and rich cuisine at Tatoy’s Manokan and Breakthrough Restaurant in Arevalo 8. Iloilo River Esplanade , Benigno Aquino, Jr. Avenu e 9. Iloilo Dinagyang Fes tival (every fourth Sunday of January) and Iloilo Paraw Regatta Festival at Villa Beach (every third Sunday of February)

Bacolod City Government Center

1. MassKara Festival (3rd week of October) and Bacolaodiat Festival (Chinese Lunar New Year) 2. Bacolod City Government Center, Carlos Hilado Circumferential Road 3. Negros Museum, Gatuslao St. 4. Negros Forest Ecological and Biodiversity Foundation, South Capitol Road 5. Bacolod Public Plaza and Bandstand 6. San Sebastian Cathedral and Bishop Palace, Rizal St. 7. Barangay Sang Birhen Chappel, Sta. Clara Subdivision 8. Panaad Park and Stadium, Brgy. Mansilingan 9. Pope John Paul II Tower (PJPII), Rizal Extn., BREDCO

DEPARTMENT OF TOURISM - REGION VI (WESTERN VISAYAS)

Capitol Grounds, Bonifacio Drive, Iloilo City, Philippines Tel. Nos.: (+63 33) 337-5411 (Information) / 509-3550 (Accounting) / 503-2705 (Accreditation) Telefax: (+63 33) 335-0245 Email: deptour6@mozcom.com Websites: http://www.westernvisayastourism.com.ph http://www.itsmorefuninthephilippines.com

Iloilo Dinagyang Festival

METRO OPINION

6 EDITORIAL

Conquering ASEAN Integration

A

s we brace ourselves up for ASEAN integration in 2015, we look forward for what’s in and what’s out- sectors that will radiantly flourish and industries that will ponderously depreciate.

Engineer Gilberto Altura, president of the Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS) said that firms in the country that gain from market expansion and improved competitiveness are most likely to be the winners in the establishment of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) “Workers who get employed in growing sectors like engineers, doctors, nurses, and other highly - skilled workers will benefit.” Altura said.

Meanwhile, Altura said that losers are those insufficient and uncompetitive sectors like retail trade enterprises with paid up capital of $2,500,00 In the region, sugar sector is seen to be affected by the ASEAN Integration as it is perceived not as competitive as compared with other ASEAN countries.

Other services that are seen to fall behind are mass media (no foreign equity); private communications network (up to 20%); private recruitment agencies (up to 25%); advertising companies (up to 30%); development utilization of natural resources; Operation and management of public utilities; ownership/establishment and administration of educational institutions; culture, production, milling, processing, trading, excepting ratailing of rice, and corn; BOT requiring public utilities franchise; operation of deep sea commercial fishing vessel and Contracts for supply of materials, goods, and commodities to GOCCs or municipal corporations.

Nine months from now, the 10 countries comprising the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) will converge to become an ASEAN Economic Community.

Different sectors in the Western Visayas region is busy preparing to conquer this integration in order to meet the ASEAN economic standards specifically the Free Trade Agreement as signal of the regional incorporation to the world.

In 2015, the country will be serving more than 600 million people, with a combined gross domestic product (GDP) of $2.3 trillion.

Based on the ‘AEC Blueprint’, the ASEAN leaders, in 2007, agreed to move the target year of achieving regional economic integration from 2020 to 2015.

“The ASEAN agreed to select priority sectors which shall be liberalized ahead of the other sectors in order to achieve regional cohesiveness and enhance global competitiveness,” Balisacan said.

The government is expected to promote subsectors which have the most potential to contribute to employment generation. These are the agro-industry (coconut coffee, cacao, fisheries and forestry), manufacturing (food, garments, wood furniture and fixtures and halal food industry), tourism, IT-BPM, construction and logistics subsectors.

Composed of Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Brunei, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar and Cambodia, ASEAN was established on August 8, 1967.

On October 7, 2003, ASEAN leaders decided to move the creation of Economic Community in 2015 instead of 2020.

Unemployment

S

o far, reports u s u a l l y tell that “unemployment rises”.

This implies that stakeholders fail to provide employment, and this also presupposes that stakeholders should have provided or created employment, or at least should have provided employment opportunities.

The administration will not like to hear such reports. Neither will the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) find such reports sweet to its ears. Of course, neither us like to hear it.

It makes some of us worry for our unemployed relatives and friends.

But, whether we like it or not, it will always remain that way. It will remain as it is. No politician will ever solve such a problem.

Even highly industrialized countries have problems like this. Unemployment will always remain a problem, and only for a short while will such problem decrease, but most of the time, it increases, it rises.

As this problem is prevalent, the struggle for employment is like this: Employ me, not them. And employment urgency means employ me now, today.

“Employment” is obviously a matter that requires creativity to connect, just like what we have just done with words.

This March, many graduates will join the unemployed members of our society. They will definitely not like this.

for reasons of economic development seems suspecting and has become an alibi for political maneuvering.

But I hope, at least, this development will eventually generate more employment opportunities for the unemployed. **** ILECO 1. I do not know what is going on with the billing system of ILECO 1. Last month, I complained about the recurrence of unpaid bill in my electric bills, which were already paid. Today (March 13), I was surprised and pestered to have received a notice of disconnection when the unpaid bill referred to was already paid. I just hope ILECO 1 will correct its errors by the time this article goes into print, at least as far as my case is concerned. Otherwise, I myself will have to respond accordingly, for the sake of public interest. **** 2016 ELECTIONS. The Liberal Party and and Nacionalista Party may join forces for the 2016 presidential elections according to reports quoting Senator Alan Peter Cayetano.

Well, political parties always try to find allies for political ends, victories, despite the hard times they went through against one another. Tactical alliance is not new in Philippine politics, and is a good subject to study.

Parties which are not part of the negotiation process, however, will find themselves outside of such alliance soon enough and will most likely feel that there is an impending political war to be declared against them. They must act promptly and strategize with precision

to stride the political landscape with pride, honor, and glory. **** WOMEN’S MONTH. Though March 8 was the National Women’s Day, the month of March is the National Women’s Month, pursuant to Proclamation No. 227, Series of 1988. This year’s theme is : “Juana, ang Tatag Mo ay Tatag Natin sa Pagbangon at Pagsulong”.

More power to women for stronger family relation, community development, progressive nation. **** LIBERATION OF PANAY. Pursuant to Proclamation No. 430 issued in 1989 by the late President Corazon Aquino, March 18 – a Victory Day - is a special non-working holiday in Panay, Guimaras, and Romblon Islands to commemorate the Liberation of Panay from the Japanese Imperial Armed Forces.

It was on March 18, 1945 – 69 years ago - that the Panay Guerilla Forces launched the final assault against the Japanese Imperial Armed Forces.

We celebrate the day without any grudge against the Japanese people who come to our place.

Our appreciation goes even to them who now extend their assistance for the development of our community. **** GREETINGS. Belated happy birthday to Mr. Chris Montaño. I wish you more blessings in life. **** Send feedback to: arnoldcares@yahoo.com#

the Plazuela management and the event organizers on who would supposedly be responsible for the mishap and the deaths of the victims.

After the Ultra stampede, it has been mandatory to request for assistance of the authorities like the BFP and PNP to check the area of the event, be it an indoor assembly or outdoor assembly.

Lest we forget, the 74 victims from the Ultra stampede all died outside of the path leading to the gate of Ultra stadium. For the Bureau of Fire Protection’s part, inspecting the venue for the required exits as mandated by the Fire Code and possible fire hazards are what is at stake. But electrical hazards like found in the wet and wild party in Plazuela De Iloilo would have been seen by Fire Safety Inspectors,

if inspection was requested by the organizers. BFP Fire Safety Inspectors are trained to identify such hazards and they are more competent than the PNP in inspecting the venue for such, knowing that the police have a different outlook in inspection according to their mandate.

In the event organized by the Central Philippine University, no inspection was requested from the BFP. A request for standby firemen was most probably routed to the volunteer fire brigades who provided for the necessary fire engines for the party. The BFP cannot afford to provide standby firemen and fire engines and release volumes of water during such events leaving the rest of the city vulnerable. Nevertheless, if inspection was conducted by the BFP Fire Safety Inspectors the incident would have been avoided. There is no other competent authority to foresee and discover such hazard than the

BFP Fire Safety Inspectors.

Which leads us to thinking: Safety Officers of the event organizers and of Plazuela would suffice to deter the electrocution, if they have one. Now fingerpointing would lead us nowhere.

It is time to start being responsible for such things and for future events such as concerts, foam parties and the likes. Plazuela De Iloilo do not have an organized Fire Brigade (which is required by the Fire Code). The Fire Brigade commander can function as the Safety Officer to coordinate with any event organizer’s own Safety Officer. Coordination of the Safety Officers of the organizer, the venue and the BFP Fire Safety Inspectors would pre-empt any hazard that could pose risks on the attendees.

NOTE: The views in this column does not necessarily reflect the official stand of the Bureau of Fire Protection 6 and the writer does not speak for the BFP’s position.

more about the “I”. Most people have become self-centered. If one doesn’t feel comfortable about another person, it has become so easy to “unfriend” or “block”.

Where has unconditional love and respect gone? Aren’t we supposed to build and nurture a relationship to make it work? That brings me to the second basic psychological need according to the book of Dr. Honey Carandang - the need for love or unconditional acceptance and affirmation. It is the need to be accepted without judgment, to be “loved for who you are” not for what you have or for what you do. It is life-giving, healing and refreshing. I must have done something really good to deserve such kind of love. I am lucky to be with a man who loves me for

all that I am. I am able to stretch my wings and fly because he has been the wind that propels me.

A humble and loving person who has always remained quiet and supportive no matter what endeavor I bring myself into.

I will always be grateful to this person who has allowed me to break barriers and soar but always ready to catch me if I fall. I can count with my fingers the number of nights I woke up to prepare milk for the kids ever since our eldest was born twelve years ago because he has always stood up to prepare milk even before I can hear our babies cry for it. He has given them baths, changed their diapers, fed them, lulled them to sleep more times than I ever would because now our youngest

is already on potty training and I won’t be able to catch up. If there’s one person who deserves the applause, it’s him. On top of all these, he has never forgotten to say “I love you” in each text message he sends me and has never forgotten to say it to me each night before going to sleep.

We have never gone to sleep angry at each other because he wants us to get a good night’s sleep with no hurt on our hearts. We can talk about everything under the sun and spend hours and hours talking about us and our boys. He is unconditional love personified.

And did I mention that he gives me most of what he earns and leaves just enough for himself so he can buy bread and softdrinks at a streetside bakery?

They can land in a job or two in a year. But most of the time, they will have no employment.

A few percent of them can have permanent positions in government service, due to vacancies created by retirees, and those who leave government service for good, here or abroad.

Private sectors will try to continue hiring contractual services, for three or six months.

Then stop the hiring for a while.

Then hire again new employees for the same terms. Such a scheme is also done in government, through job orders. This is how we try to minimize unemployment, how we try to ease the lives of unemployed and the burden they cause to their families. I do not know if this cycle will stop. I don’t, however, think that such a cycle does no good to us. Nonetheless, we Filipinos have come to accept such reality.

The ingenuity of Filipinos comes out during hard times.

And this is one hard time for us: to be told that “unemployment rises” again. What have we in mind to help solve this problem, other than denying it? **** INVESTMENTS. The Central Bank of the Philippines recently reported the 20% increase in foreign direct investments, an evidence of strong investor confidence in our country.

With this development, I don’t think that there is a need to amend the economic provisions of the Philippine Constitution. Any move to amend the Constitution

Electrocuted!

A

supposedly f u n filled wet party turned into tragedy when two persons were electrocuted when a charged metal railing in the event area was touched by the victims. The current would have been strong and consistent that it caused the death of one innocent victim who was there just to enjoy the event organized at Plazuela De Iloilo.

It is sad to note that after the incident, the organizers were blank on what would be the proper response. No one took charge and stood to facilitate the revival or first aid application to the victims and eventually transporting them to the hospital. By the time they recovered their wits, time has ran out for the victims. It is sadder that finger-pointing happened between

March 16 - 22, 2014

The Need for Unconditional Acceptance and Affirmation

L

ast week, I talked about the first basic psychological need which is the need for personal significance. It is important that each of us know that we matter and that we are important. This is so timely because of the advent of the internet and hand held gadgets. Seldom can we find a couple, a family or a group of people in a restaurant who mindfully talk with each other intently. Everyone seems to be engrossed with either a cellphone or an iPad or sometimes, with both. Communication has now been limited to texts, tweets, posts and Facebook messages. No wonder it’s so easy for couples to break up or separate. No one seems to talk about the “us” anymore but

March 16 - 22, 2014

METRO OPINION

Preconditions to APEC

N

ext year, I l o i l o City will be hosting the two side meetings from the ministerial meeting of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC). The two cluster meetings are on transportation and food security. Not all of the representatives of APEC’s 21 member nation will be in Iloilo City.

The APEC side meetings is touted as the vehicle that will put Iloilo City in the global map among international investors. This is the reason why all the resources from the national government and from the pork barrel of Sen. Frank Drilon are being pouredin for infrastructure development including road widening, retrofitting and repair. Since EDSA 1986, it is only today that this much development has arrived in Iloilo City.

The infrastructure boom with all the high rise buildings set off by Edgar “Injap” Sia’s numerous condominium

units mushrooming in the metropolis, the Megaworld development, upcoming Gaisano’s center, and so on and so forth, complements the government’s rush in achieving instant development for Iloilo City in such a short period of time.

Hosting side meetings has recognizably put pressure to the host local government unit because of the seemingly potential benefits that can be derived from APEC in spite of the fact that it is ill-prepared to start with.

Almost all the requirements of hosting an APEC side meetings is something that cannot be spotted in Iloilo City’s menu book. This is the reason why Iloilo City is acting like it is in a state of emergency by rushing to meet the requirements set by the APEC national organizing committee.

Iloilo City thinks “international” yet its system of attaining development is admittedly domestic or backward to say the least. Not to mention that the execution of the plan is private sector

Writer’s Block

H

ow’s your creative writing going?

It is fine, but not as productive as I want it to be.

It could definitely be better. You see, February and March are usually my writing-est months, and I should have more reasons to create more this year given that I am off from my hospital work. However, there is the problem with my left foot, which can possibly be more serious than I originally thought it was, that is causing me considerable anxiety; and the greater stressor which is our impending move to Maryland. In addition, I have this crazy idea of doing more stuff in L.A., like checking things off my bucket list, before we leave for good.

What’s the last thing that you have written?

Since March 1, I have written thirteen poems for children in Filipino.

Actually, it’s not really bad considering that I am averaging almost one poem per day. I don’t know if I can make a decent collection out of it because it is still evolving as a collection, like my voice is becoming more distinct in the later poems. I actually enjoy the lesser poems even if they are more wordy than the earlier ones. Consider the stats: the first poem has 29 words; the thirteenth poem has more than double the number at 64. I’ll probably just continue writing until I have 20 or 25 of these poems, or until I’m totally dry, and then weed out the lesser poems until I have my collection of 12 or 15 best poems. In February, I spent a tremendous amount of time thinking out the plot for a play. I eventually started writing the play, but I just lost interest after the first scene. I don’t know. I might return to it because I feel strongly about the idea of the play, and its possibilities. Or, I might just start an entirely new play.

driven yet publicly financed. Iloilo City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog has announced that the city is “expecting a thousand delegates during these meetings”. The required facilities is inadequate at this time and if the deadline will complied all these facilities will be brand new by 2015.

But we are in for the biggest disappointment of our lives from the delegates especially that the two side meetings are critical sectors: transportation and food security. What would Iloilo City display in the eyes of country representatives to APEC in as far as these sectors are concerned?

The day-to-day anarchic city’s traffic system alone can be an interesting side discussions in the transportation sector meeting especially that traffic enforcement is deplete of international standard. It will be amusing to imagine how the city council’s committee on transportation will respond to the competency requirement set by international

So, you are not currently experiencing what is called a writer’s block?

I don’t think so. I have enough material going for the play that I have in mind, but you see, a play is a bigger investment. It calls for sustained focus on my part, and because I am so preoccupied with the move, it’s a little difficult for me right now. My full-length play usually runs from 90 to 120 pages; my one acts, 45 to 60 pages. Compare that with poetry that I can very well contain in a page or two.

With things as they are, I cannot worry about creating a play, doing fun things in L.A., and packing for Maryland just right now. No, thank you!

But have you ever experienced a writer’s block?

I must have, but because my livelihood is not totally dependent on writing, I am not bothered by it.

You must also understand that I train and force myself to write one, two, or

7

standards in as far as traffic enforcers and road safety is concerned. While member nations to APEC are utilizing modern technology in its road system and traffic enforcement, Iloilo City can exhibit its manual method of traffic enforcement and by displaying to how the city are blatantly exposing its equally incompetent traffic enforcers to the elements of pollution at work.

It will also be exciting how, say, the representative of Japan will react to the lack of interest of the City Government in implementing the recommendations from the study funded by the Japan International Cooperation (JICA) on the city’s traffic system.

The food security issue can also be equally worse. The food security sector will not only discuss about what food materials are present in the region, but it will also inquire how food are flowing in the value chain or from raw material, to the public markets, and how it ends up in the hands of the enduser. What would, for instance, the city’s committee on public market will share in as far as best sanitary practices of handling food at the market level?

These are just some of the critical areas that Iloilo City is obviously unprepared to confront. The delegates to the APEC side meetings will definitely look into it for, largely, there is really nothing substantial that are happening on APEC side meetings aside from ceremonial signing of what has been already agreed upon on the road to the highlight.

The substantial discussions and negotiations of the APEC nations’ agreements for 2015 are already being undertaken in the numerous meetings being held in different countries today.

What APEC representatives will do in Iloilo City by 2015 will be merely photo-op and site seeing.

It’s intelligent investor representative will not be inspecting the branded suits and polo barongs that the city officials will be wearing; not even the sumptuous food; or marvel on the state-of-the-art convention center, the Esplanade, and the roads or heritage buildings; what they will look into are systems of how things are being done and the manner that their investments will be hosted. ###

three times a week; but at least once a week. I maintain this column, for heaven’s sake! So, yes, I can definitely write on command. The greatest contribution of coming to America to my writing is that I am surrounded here with powerful stimulants, and I earn enough money to indulge myself.

Sure, there is no longer the hunger and poverty that fuels me as in my earliest writings, but America has opened so many possibilities for me.

If I want inspiration for my writing, I can travel, watch a movie, go to the theatre, read books, go to a museum.

I usually become pretty charged for creative writing after a trip to, let’s say, New York. I go there from L.A. just to absorb the cultural and literary scene, and it doesn’t matter if the trip is for just a day or two.

writer, maybe you should not be a writer at all. Haha! I really think that a writer’s block is a prerogative of an author after his first or second book, preferably no sooner than the second. I don’t think that you should be entitled to claim that you have a writer’s block if you haven’t yet published a book, and I don’t think that blog, magazine, newspaper, or anthology publications should count. Going back to the question, I really think that movies are good enough to unhinge the mental block. I would have liked to suggest reading a book, but in my experience, reading either exhausts me, or makes me feel that my own writing and I are inferior. Finally, I’d like to challenge young writers to just force themselves to write at least once a week, if the output is not very creative, at least they have made writing a technical discipline. I really think that if you continue to write long enough, your writing will develop its own wings.

Then again, how can you trust me? I’ve only published 20 books so far!

What’s your advice about writer’s block to young writers who do not have your means?

If you are having a creative block early on when you are still a young

Sanday Sicalac & Sicaway, Una nga Laki & Bayi

G

inatapos ko ka revise ang nobela ko sa Kinaray-a nga may titulo Kamatayun sa Isla Boracay nga naumpisahan katung 2009. Rugya ang pira ka pinanid, sangka pagdumdum kag liwan pagsugid sa sangka istorya parte sa una nga bayi kag laki kang mga Ati kag Bisaya sa mga isla kang Negros kag Panay nga na-rekord ni Fray Jose Maria Pavon Araguro katung 1838-39 kag nalubad halin sa Espanyol paagto sa Ingles ni Dr. James A. Robertson: Kawayan ang ginasugid nga tanum nga namunga sa lugar diin nagkitaay sanday Captan & Maguayen.

Rugya ginapatihan naghalin ang una nga bayi kag laki.

Kun ang mga Tagalog may Malakas & Maganda, ang mga Ati kag Bisaya may Sicalac & Sicaway. Wara lang dya nagsikat. Andut ayhan? Kamo ang magsabat.

Istorya run ni Mal-am Nito nga sangka adlaw, nagpakigkita sanday Sicalac & Sicaway sa linog.

Anhaw? Bangud naluyag sanda sa isara kag isara. Gusto nanda mamanan kun pwede sanda mag-asawahay.

Problema, wara sanda kamaan kun diin makita si Macalinog, ang hari kang linog.

Nagpanaw sanda sa pagtuman kang tuyo. Duro nga bukid kag suba ang andang gin-agyan. Wara gihapon, wara it paratandaan. Hasta makalabut sanda sa sangka bukid kag sa sobra

nga kakapoy, nakaturog.

Pagbugtaw nanda, sa sanga kang kahoy, rugyan ang pispis nga si Manaul. Wara pa sanda mamuragmuragan, naghambal run dya: “Makasugid ako kang pamensarun kag baratyagun kang tawo. Kun i-promisa ninyo ang paghimo ka sangka bagay kanakun, isugid ko kaninyo kadya dayon kun sa diin si Macalinog nga makasugid kaninyo kun angay kamo magpakasal ukun indi.”

Ano pa abi kundi nagpromisa sanday Sicalac & Sicaway.

Hambal ni Manaul: “Sa akun panahon, malain ako. Duro ang akun nahimo nga kapintas. Lolo ko si Macalinog. Silot na kanakun dyang pagtigbaylo ko sa pispis. Kinahanglan ko lamang maghimo ka sangka mayad nga butang para masalbar ako. Nakita ko nga mahimo ko ria kadya para kaninyo. Pero sa sangka kondisyon: kun matapos ninyo ang inyo kinahanglanun, mabalik kamo rugya kanakun kag magbunot ka sangka bulbul sa akun ikug. Kun matabo ria, matapos ang silot ka akun lolo, kag makabalik ako sa daan ko nga itsura.”

“Huod, wara it problema,” hambal nanday Sicalac & Sicaway.

May kumpyansa sanda nga mahimo nanda ang promisa. Gusto man gid nanda himuon ang mayad. Nangako sanda.

“Kar-un,” hambal ni Manaul, “dar-a ninyo dyang gamay nga botelya

kang pula nga lana. Kun paturuan ninyo ka sangka turo ang inyong mata, makita ninyo ang lugar diin nagauli si Macalinog, ang akun lolo. Pero kun indi ninyo matuman ang promisa nga magbalik, hasta san-o mangin tikalun kamo. Antes man ninyo malab-ot ang lugar, maagi anay kamo sa pito ka bukid kag pito ka sapa. Amo dya ang pito ka bukid kang kasal-anan.

Pagkatapos ninyo maagyan ang isara kag antes malab-ut ang ikapito, kun magbalikid kamo, malugdang ang bukid, putukputukan lamang ang makita bilang pahanumdum kang inyong promisa.”

Kang matapos na dya hambal, naglupad paitaas sa kahawaan si Manaul, hasta madura sa gal-um.

Nagpadayon sa pagpanaw sanday Sicalac & Sicaway.

Nakalab-ut sanda sa sangka bungsod. Rugya kag nadumduman ni Sicalac ang gamay nga botelya kang pula nga lana. Ginpaguwa na dya kag nagpaturo sa mata, amo man kay Sicaway.

Tan-taran-tan ---- ang pito ka bukid sa di-marayu! Sa putukputukan, ang bahul nga bato. Sa pinakaurihi nga bukid, ang kuweba, kag ang sangka mal-am! Nakatungtong sa palad kang mal-am ang bahul nga bato. Ginapalibutan tana kang mga isda sa nagkalain-lain nga kolor!

Sa amo nga tion, naman-an nanday Sicalac & Sicaway nga amo run dya ang lugar nga nahambal ni Manaul, kag ang mal-am wara it iba

kundi si Macalinog.

Antes makalab-ut rugya, may sapa.

Nagpanaw sanda paagto sa lugar.

Mayad ang andang pagpanaw, tubtub sa ika-pito. Rugya nadumduman ni Sicalac ang hambal ni Manaul: indi magbalikid.

Pero ano anang himuon hay wara sa ingud na si Sicaway? Ay, nawili dya sa pagsipal sa mga isda!

“Sicaway, dali run,” tawag na nga wara pagbalikid.

Wara it sabat halin kay Sicaway.

Ano ayhan ang natabo sa pinalangga nga bugto?

Wara maka-agwanta si Sicalac.

Nagbalikid tana.

Sa amo man nga tion, ang pagbutwa si Sicaway.

Kag natabo ang hambal ni Manaul: naglugdang ang bukid, ang sapa nangin dagat!

Pero natapos dyang istorya kag may iba pa nga natabo amo nga mahambal natun nga nalampuwasan nanda dyang panghangkat kag nakalab-ot gid man sanda kay Macalinog.

“Gusto namun maman-an kun pwede kami mag-asawahay nga magbugto,” hambal nanda.

Sabat ni Macalinog: “Pamangkuta ninyo ang mga isda kag pispis.”

Kag ano ang sabat kananda?

“Huod,” sabat kang mga isda.

“Huod,” sabat man kang mga pispis.

Bangud ano ang mahimo ka mga isda kag pispis? Sanday Sicalac & Sicaway pa lamang ang tawo sa kalibutan.

Gani ginkasal sanda ni Macalinog.

Sa kasadya, nakasaut ang bagis kag baboy. Dya sa andang kasal dun, sa punsyon. Nagtuga dya kang linog.

Nag-ugut ang mga isda hay nalingin sanda. Gusto nanda magpuut ang baboy kag bagis sa pagsaut.

Indi pwede. Anhaw? Hay ang bagis tinuga kang dagat, ang baboy tinuga sa lupa. Pero man-an natun nga hari kang linog si Macalinog, amo nga napapuut na dyang dungan naghinugyaw nga bagis kag baboy.

Amo kuno dya ang rason man kun andut sa kadya, indi run makasaut ang baboy. Hasta gilang sa iwul-iwul ka ikog.

Samtang sanday Sicalac & Sicaway, ano nga kalipay! Ano bala, makamuad sanda. Kag ginhimo gid man nanda kuno ang promisa kay Manaul. Pero sa kun ano nga rason, wara nagbalik sa daan nga itsura si Manaul. Amo nga hasta kadya, sangka pispis gihapon, kag ginakabig nga malain.

Suno sa ginalauman, namata sanday Sicalay & Sicaway. Dya sanday Sanman & Libho, ang ginasugid nga naghimo kang una nga sala. Rugya naghalin ang linahi kang mga Ati. Amo kuno nga maitum.

Kag ano dyang ginasugid nga una nga sala?

Ay, ang pagtinikal.

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March 16 - 22, 2014

METRO AGRICULTURE

9

Raise Chickens for Eggs and Meat (Part 9)

Role of Probiotics in Raising Chickens Probiotics use is a recent phenomenon in poultry and livestock.

When consumers have become wary of the recent findings about the dangers of antibiotics and hormones in chickens and eggs, many turned to practices developed decades ago.

The Japanese and the Korean Natural Farming System suddenly became vogue. The system developed by Dr. Teruo Higa (circa 1930), a Japanese scientist suddenly became popular and was soon adopted and innovated upon by the Koreans, and other nationalities whereby its use has now become widespread. (Google: Natural Farming Systems).

The technologies developed by Dr. Higa covers a wide range of farm operations and everyday life, both in the farm and in the home. Through the years, modifications of the main methods of preparations and the discoveries of a wide range of uses have made the use of probiotics mainstream and all encompassing.

In chickens, other poultry and

livestock in general, probiotics are an essential component. There are many types of concoctions and they serve many roles in the nutrition and general well-being of poultry and livestock.

Indigenous Micro Organisms (IMO).

IMO is the basic type of probiotics. It is made by fermenting rice and other cereals to allow beneficial bacteria to populate the medium and is later trapped by the heavy molasses or sugar mixed into the medium. The basic method is to place cold cooked rice or corn in a tray, preferably a bamboo or wooden tray where the microscopic bacteria can penetrate through the cover of newspaper and grow. After 5-7 days, when molds, bacteria and yeasts have grown, the culture is placed in a plastic or glass container and an equal amount of molasses or brown sugar is added. After a time lapse of 3-4 days, the concoction may be used.

It is effective for up to 2 months at room temperature and up to 6 months refrigerated. To use as probiotics for chickens and other animals, mix ½ teaspoon IMO in 1 liter water and serve daily. Withdraw when using antibiotics and return after again.

To use as decomposing agent and to dislodge or prevent destructive microorganisms from populating the environment, dissolve 200 ml of pure IMO in 16 liters of water and wet all areas of the farm. Spray profusely on chicken manure and beddings. If manure had been gathered in sacks together with beddings, wet sack or pile very well and keep wet by addig more water regularly until fully decomposed.

Fermented Plant Juice: The best Fermented Plant Juice (FPJ) I have so far used is the concoction from malunggay and mint. Not only that it supplies the pro- betacarotene requirements of the chickens and other livestock, they also supply other essential nutrients especially certain amino acids needed by the animals.

They are also therapeutic and when regularly used, can boost the immune system of chickens.

To make FPJ from malunggay, pound or liquify about 500 grams of leaves and stalks and add about 250 ml of water. Add about 5 grams of sea rock salt and 30 ml of molasses to the mixture and allow to ferment for 3-5 days. After the period of fermentation,

add equal volume of molasses or brown sugar and wait for another 3 days then start using. My method is to use ¼ teaspoon IMO and ¼ teaspoon FPJ-Malunggay per liter of water. But often, I simply use ½ teaspoon of the FPJ without anymore the IMO> However, I find good use for IMO as fermenter of chicken manure and other organic farm wastes which are then used as organic fertilizer in my farm.

Fish Amino Acid (FAA): Fish Amino Acid is one of the essential probiotics in chicken farming.

Its use promotes faster growth among chicks and growing chickens due mainly to the essential amino acids extracted through fermentation. To

make FAA, crush about 1 kilo of cheap fish (Cory Fish is ideal) and add equal amount of molasses. You may also innovate by adding 250 grams pure IMO and 750 grams molasses. The IMO will speed up fermentation due to the presence of lactic acid bacteria and other protein modifying enzymes present in the IMO. Ferment for up to 2 weeks or when you see that the meat has dissolved into fine particles. They will be easy to disperse in water. Mix ½ to 1 teaspoon in one liter of water and make this as their sole water in the morning and replace this with IMO or FPJ solution on the afternoon. Adding FAA will solve feather picking and provide other essential amino acids which mahy otherwise be lacking in the feeds provided to the chickens.

Good animal husbandry practices pushed

The production of safe, good quality animal food is a demand in the local and global markets, according to the Department of Agriculture.

DA-6 Regional Technical Director Joyce Wendam said that with this, there is the need for all the stakeholders to conform to the code of Good Animal Husbandry Practices (GAHP).

Wendam said provincial veterinarians, farm operators, veterinary drug dealers and developers in Western visayas should help in this.

The code of GAHP was created and reviewed by the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI), Bureau of Agriculture and Fisheries Product Standards (BAFPS), National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS), and the Livestock Development Council (LDC), sets the general principles of good practices and minimum requirements in rearing

animals.

Director Wendam said that farm establishments should conform to the good farming practices to provide greater confidence to the consumers and importing countries.

“Getting accreditation from GAHP is a means to achieving this,” Wendam told the stakeholders during a seminar on GAHP held here last week.

She added that a GAHP certification increases the market access of animal food products, responding to the consumers’ demand for safe and quality goods, as well as facilitate the different disease control programs.

The DA said in a press release, that a Certification Committee is tasked to assess the applications and to monitor whether the GAHP-accredited facilities adhere to the practices or not.

Application requirements include farm organizational profile, certificate of registration, farms track record, production flow chart, government license and registration certificates issued by the DTI and the BIR. Application is free for GAHP certification but it is only valid and will have to be renewed a month before the expiration.

Thirty days after receipt of the renewal receipt, inspection will be done, and when approved, the certification is valid for three years.

Dr. Ma. Gracia Flores of the BAI said that GAHP also integrates animal rights and welfare which include concerns on illegal dog meat trade, dog fight, horse fighting, improper handling of foods, and markings of IDs using sharp objects in pigs. (DA6/JCM/ESS/PIA-Iloilo)

10

METRO SPORTS

March 16 - 22, 2014

PBA stars eyed for FIBA 3-on-3 bash Imagine Calvin Abueva slashing the middle, Arwind Santos hitting a jumper and Japeth Aguilar slamming it in for the Philippines in the AsiaPacific leg of this year’s FIBA 3x3 World Tour.

The possibility was raised by Samahang Basketbol ng Pilipinas executive director Sonny Barrios as he tackled the coming event in yesterday’s PSA Forum at Shakey’s Malate.

Barrios said the Philippines will host the Asia-Pacific leg in July. It will comprise of 12 teams, including three from the host country.

Five other legs will be played in Beijing, Chicago, Lausanne, Rio de Janeiro and Prague. The top two teams in each leg will move on to the World Tour in Tokyo in October.

However, the former PBA

commissioner stressed that it’s just a possibility.

“It being July, either the PBA is finished with third conference or if it is still ongoing only two teams are left playing in the finals,” said Barrios, meaning players from the eliminated teams can see action in the 3-on-3 event.

“So is it possible? I really don’t know,” said Barrios.

Barrios said one slot to the AsiaPacific leg is already for the winner of the Philippine 18-Under 3-on3 Championships in May 24-25.

Another slot may be opened to the team of Kobe Paras, Prince Rivero and Alvin Tolentino that won the FIBA Asia 3-on-3 crown in 2013.

The third slot, Barrios added, is available to any team that can represent

the country well in the Asia-Pacific leg and secure a slot to the World Tour in October.

“We can assemble a PBA team, D-League team or a collegiate team for the third slot,” Barrios said.

Also gracing the weekly forum were FIBA 3-on3 events manager Ignacio Soriano of Spain, SBP deputy executive director Bernie Atienza, SBP consultant Moying Martelino, Smart Sports executive Epok Quimpo and SBP legal counsel Aga Francisco.

Soriano said the FIBA 3x3 World Tour is open to all players, and that in the World Tour it’s even possible to see LeBron James or Kobe Bryant playing in the United States.

“In the World Tour the average age is 35 years old. It’s not about the age and height but the skills,” said

Soriano.

The hosting of the World Tour was originally offered by FIBA-Asia to the Philippines following its highlysuccessful staging of the FIBA-Asia Men’s Championship last August.

Gilas Pilipinas wound up second behind Iran in the FIBAAsia and earned a slot to the World

Championship in Spain in August.

But Barrios said the SBP had to decline the offer so it could focus on the World Championship and the Asian Games in Incheon in September.

Because of this, Barrios said it was best for the SBP headed by Manny V. Pangilinan to decline the hosting of the FIBA 3x3 World Tour.

The Philippine Azkals prepares for their game this April . Photo by forum. philboxing.com/

Azkals play Nepal in April

Arwind Santos

Japeth Aguilar

Calvin Abueva

The Philippine national football team continues its preparations for the AFC Challenge Cup in Maldives in May by taking on Nepal in a friendly on April 11.

The match will take place in Qatar, according to the Philippine Azkals’ website.

It will be the second meeting between the Philippines and Nepal in a friendly. The Azkals routed Nepal, 4-0,

when they played in October 2011 at the Rizal Memorial Stadium.

It will be the third international friendly that the Azkals will play under the helm of new head coach Thomas Dooley.

They had previously held a fullstrength Malaysian squad to a goalless draw, and lost 0-1 to higher-ranked Azerbaijan earlier this month.ABSCBNnews.com

March 16 - 22, 2014

METRO SPORTS

11

Iloilo to host 1st Bike Festival

Iloilo City hosts 1st Int’l 10-Ball Cup 2014

BY KHARIZA JOY SOFIA, REYMAR LATOZA na!”

“Updanay ta magbisikleta sa Iloilo

In support of the Share a Road Movement, the Iloilo City Government will host the 1st Iloilo Bike Festival in partnership with environmentalists, private institutions and foundations on March 30, 2014.

“This is a sports tourism activity that pushes for healthy lifestyle, creates awareness of protecting environment, and highlights the attractions of our city,” Mayor Jed Patrick E. Mabilog said.

Mabilog said it’s time to showcase the new bike lanes in Benigno Aquino Avenue and bring the message to the world that Iloilo City is an environmentally-conscious city.

The festival promotes biking tour as a physical exercise and a nonpolluting means of transportation, which will permit access to different places around the tourism areas.

The Bike Festival will begin at 4 p.m. in the Megaworld Iloilo Business Park area, Mandurriao.

The tour will include visits to

ILOILO CITY, March 13 (PNA) -- The 1st International 10-Ball Cup 2014 is presently being held at the YMCA Billiards Hall in this city participated in by 64 top players in billiards.

The international competition is bannered by Filipino billiard champions that include two-time world champion Efren “Bata” Reyes, 2010 world 9-Ball champion Francisco “Django” Bustamante and 2007 World Nine-Ball champion Ronnie Alcano.

Other prominent names competing are Carlo Biado, Jericho Banares and Jeffrey Ignacio.

Bustamante is no alien in Iloilo as his wife hails from the component city of Passi located some 59 Iloilo City’s significant attractions. kilometers north of this capital city of Iloilo province.

Bustamante had already visited Iloilo several times and his participation here would enable local Bikers will pass through Megaworld, billiard enthusiasts to personally witness world Plaza Libertad, Fort San Pedro, Muelle champions and top caliber players in action.

Loney, Calle Real, Arroyo Fountain, For the first time, Iloilo City plays host to this Gen. Luna, Molo Plaza, Arevalo Plaza, Carpenters Bridge, Iloilo River prestigious international competition.

Meanwhile, it was not immediately made Esplanade, Diversion Road, Jaro Plaza, available names of other international cue artists La Paz Plaza, Calle Real and back to competing in the sporting event here.

Megaworld.

The competition will end Friday, March Also part of the said festival is the 14.(PNA)LAM/AJP/VLORQUIOLA fun run.

Fun run and biking will be simultaneously held on the same route. City Gets...from page 1 The said event aims to endorse said he is very happy with the successful result of healthy living among citizens through the business summit in Manila participated by bicycle, to advocate the protection of more than 200 investors.

“Iloilo City means business. It simply shows the environment with non-polluting means of transport, to relive the to the whole world that we are world class”, he attractions in the local tourism circuits said.

Mabilog said the fast booming of the city also as biking route, and to encourage and implement road safety policies for contributed to the support of the Private Public Partnership and other private businessmen. bicycles.

“We are hoping to translate it into reality.

Food festival, concerts and bike show will commence right after the Whatever the return of it, this will simply show us that we are a developing city”, he said. tour.

Apart from P 31.48 billion private For more inquiries call Youth and Sports Development Division, Iloilo investments, the government has also set aside City hall at 333-111 loc. 503 (Iloilo P 4 billion worth of infrastructure projects for the city.

City Government/IMT)

NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late JESUS COSTANILLA CASAS known as lot no. 3, Block 12A, Pcs-06-00072 situated in the District of Jaro, City of Iloilo, Island of Panay containing an area of two hundred nine square meters with Transfer Certificated of Title No. T-80639 is the subject of the deed of adjudication with waiver as per doc. no. 1276, page no.

237 book no. V series of 2014 of notary public ATTY. MEL GABAR M. TOLENTINO. March 16 - 22, 2014

NOTICE

Notice is hereby given that the estate of the late Pacifica P. Parreño known as lot no. 1740 B to G of the Cadastral survey of Potatan, Iloilo Covered by TCT no. T-19983 area of 1,690 sq. m. more or less has been adjudicated

by NIDA GUSTILO NADANZA and that she sold the portion of lot 1740-E with and area of 632 sq. m. more or less equivalent at P 1500,000.00 to Tessie M. Paracale as per doc. no. 12, page no. 97 book no. XXXI series of 2014 before Notary Public Ex Officio JUDGE EVA SAUL PADILLA. March 16 - 22, 2014