METROPOLITAN
ILOILO
VOL. II ISSUE NO. 50
the first business newspaper in metro iloilo
TIMES
developmental news | critical views www.iloilometropolitantimes.com
January 26 - February 1, 2014 Php 12.00
Psalm 29:11 The LORD gives strength to his people; the LORD blesses his people with peace. HISTORICAL EXCHANGE RATE Weekly MIDPOINT Rates - Jan 17 - 23, 2014
USD/PHP
45.3000
45.2604 45.2478
45.2000 45.1000 45.0865
45.0675
45.0000
45.0785 44.9779
44.9000 44.8000 44.7000
44.6936
44.6000 Jan 17, 2014
Jan 19, 2014
Jan 21, 2014
Jan 23, 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
GLOBAL BUSINESS POWER TO BOOST ILOILO GROWTH 20.00
Current Price 120.00/kg
THINGS ARE LOOKING UP. Global Power’s Panay Energy Development Corporation (PEDC) is growing with Iloilo as it plans to expand its power facility by 150 MW to meet the growing economic development of the province and the region.
Global Business Power partners with schools to combat malnutrition
Global Business Power subsidiaries Panay Energy and Panay Power, in partnership with GT Metro Foundation, recently launched “Oh My Gulay!” (OMG) to promote the benefits of eating and planting vegetables among children. Global Business Power and its partner organizations brought this advocacy program to Iloilo City with reports from the 2008 National Nutrition Survey indicating that the Western Visayas ranked third in
having underweight children between the ages of 6-10 years old. The OMG program provided these schools with vegetable farming tools, seeds, teaching materials and technical training to help uplift the health condition of the community. Oh My Gulay! (OMG) is one of the corporate social responsibility projects of Global Business Power that aims to make a difference in the lives of the communities where it operates.
In line with this year’s Dinagyang Festival theme of “Bringing More Fun to the World,” local electricity generator Global Business Power Corporation (GBPC) is also set to expand its power plant to “Bring More Energy” to the whole province and meet its growing energy demands. GBPC chairman Francisco Sebastian explained that the region’s power requirement will continue to grow, especially with the uptrend in the economy. “We have committed ourselves to provide adequate, reliable and cost efficient power supply to support this growth,” said Sebastian. GBPC, the power generation unit of the GT Capital Holdings Group, owns and operates Panay Energy Development Corporation’s (PEDC) 164-MW plant in Barangay Ingore, La Paz in Iloilo City. PEDC earlier announced that it is building another 150-MW clean coal-fired power plant in Iloilo. The company recently signed Formosa Heavy Industries Corp. to be its technical contractor. “Iloilo is bustling with a number of major business and property developments under construction,” Sebastian said. He enumerated
the 75-hectare Iloilo Business Park of Megaworld, the Ayala Land development at the Atria Park District, the 30-hectare commercial complex of the Gaisano group, and the highrise commercial and residential condominiums of DoubleDragon Properties as among the significant projects that will need electric power in the next couple of years. PEDC hopes to begin the expansion project early this year, with commercial operations programmed by the middle of 2016. “Based on our plan, this will be just in time when these developments come into full stream
operations,” according to Sebastian. This was echoed by Iloilo Business Club (IBC) executive director Lea Lara in a recent interview with local media. Lara said that while there is no problem with the current power needs, “Stable power supply is needed by 2015 when many of the establishments under construction will begin to open to the public.” The IBC head said they welcome the expansion proposed by PEDC. “Their move to produce additional power will give assurance to investors of ongoing multi-billion investments in Iloilo City,” added Lara.
PLEASE PAY YOUR TAXES PROMPTLY!!!
METROPOLITAN
ILOILO
VOL. II ISSUE NO. 50
the first business newspaper in metro iloilo
TIMES
developmental news | critical views www.iloilometropolitantimes.com
January 26 - February 1, 2014 Php 12.00
Proverbs 18:10 The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe. HISTORICAL EXCHANGE RATE Weekly MIDPOINT Rates - Jan 17 - 23, 2014
USD/PHP
45.3000
45.2604 45.2478
45.2000 45.1000 45.0865
45.0675
45.0000
45.0785 44.9779
44.9000 44.8000 44.7000
44.6936
44.6000 Jan 17, 2014
Jan 19, 2014
Jan 21, 2014
Jan 23, 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
ILOILO CITY IS RIPE
Dinagyang in the eyes of prime Ilonggo artist PG Zoluaga. A painting requested by Iloilo Metropolitan Times for today’s anniversary issue.
14-storey Megaworld residential tower launched BY MARY PAULINE BALMES
Top condominium developer Megaworld launched its second condominium project after strong residential sales in Metro Iloilo. Lafayette Park Square is 14-storey single tower building with 289 units occupying _ hectares of the township development. “We are definitely bullish about Iloilo. Aside from the local market, we have seen an increasing demand for residential condominiums in Iloilo from the international market. Around 20% of our residential unit sales last year was driven by our international sales,” said Jennifer 14-storey /p12
Mila’s Hill
BY RHODERICK MAQUIRANG TECSON
The ripening growth potential of Iloilo City is the primary reason why the city is fast becoming a good business site according to Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog. Boasting an approximate PhP500 million pesos worth of investment in 2013, Mabilog mentioned that the investment community is riding the boat of the city’s prospects as early as now because everything is cheaper yet. He added that the most recent huge investors of the city include Panay Energy Development Corporation (PEDC), Ayala and Megaworld. PEDC a subsidiary of Global Business Power Corporation is operating a 164-MW coal-fired power plant in Brgy. Inggore, Lapaz District and has expressed an intention of building its second plant with 150MW capacity worth P6.2 billion pesos. Ayala Land Inc. has started its P15-B investment which includes the construction of four 14-storey towers, nine 7-storey condominiums, commercial and office establishments, hotels, hospital and open space landscapes.
Mini Hotel t
In Land Resort OPENS DAILY 9:00 a.m. to 5:00p.m. FOR RESERVATION : Call or Txt (033) 396 9698 09059347957
WEBSITE
Pasil, New Lucena Iloilo
Cottages
Pavilion
www.milashill.blogspot.com
EMAIL ADDRESS
milashill.inlandresort@gmail.com
Gazebo
Megaworld Corporation has commenced the construction of its Iloilo Business Park and has an initially investment of P25 B for its development in Mandurriao district. Mabilog attributes the smooth sailing progress in the city to its political stability with a much unified support from the president of the country down to the barangay leaders. He added that the road infrastructures, amenities and educational centers are but a few more advantages that the city has today making it more attractive to investors. Recently, Iloilo is recipient of at least P4 billion worth of infrastructure projects of which P373.55 million has been allotted to key projects in Iloilo City such as the widening of the airport spur road, Arevalo by-pass road and the repair of the Iloilo airport direct road, Jaro spur road and MandurriaoJaro road. The mayor on the other hand stated that the city has yet to have a stable water supply, fully expanded and developed ports and industrial sites in order to fully realize its business potential. IMT
20.00
Current Price 120.00/kg
P88-Million diversion bridge re-opens BY MARY PAULINE BALMES
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the Iloilo City Government spearheaded the opening of the P88million Diversion Bridge in Mandurriao, Iloilo City. DPWH 6 Regional Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog and DPWH-6 Director Edilberto Tayao officials lead the cutting of ribbon during the said that early completion re-opening of the diversion bridge. of the project will pave way Iloilo City District Engineering for the commuters as well as visitors to pass the way during the Dinagyang Office District Engineer Rodney Gustilo said that immediately after period. “We have finished the bridge the Dinagyang Festival celebration, more than a month ahead of the the expansion of the other side of the target date of completion which is road will resume. The DPWH 6 and the Iloilo City supposedly on March 25 for it to be government spearheaded the opening accessible to the public”, Tayao said. The rehabilitation and expansion of the P88-million Diversion Bridge of the bridge started last July 25 in Mandurriao, Iloilo. Tayao said that the early connecting Diversion Bridge to the Sen. Benigno Aquino Jr. Avenue completion of the project will pave (Diversion Road) and General Luna way for the commuters as well as visitors to pass P88 Million /p12 St., Iloilo City.
METRO NEWS
6
METRO
on the road
Cargo vessel sinks between IloiloGuimaras waters A cargo vessel named MV Isportivo sinked recently between Iloilo-Guimaras waters. Aboard the vessel are 29 rescued crews with a number of apprentices who were sleeping when the incident happened. Some of them are from Cebu, Capiz and Iloilo. According to the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) MV Isportivo en route to Palawan to deliver 28,000 sacks of fertilizer to Palawan when it collided with another anchoring ship named MV Jihan causing a break on the side of the ship. The crews had a hard time to restart the engine which caused the ship to submerge. Authorities conducted a marine inquiry to investigate who will be held accountable of the incident and oil slick has been reported along some parts Brgy. Hoskyn, Jordan Guimaras.
Iloilo City Coast Guard ocular inspection of MV Sportivo at Iloilo-Guimaras Straight. Photo credit to Mario Gelongo.
January 26 - February 1, 2014
Dinagyang, a successful private-public partnership The annual Iloilo Dinagyang Festival is a strong manifestation of a successful public-private partnership that showcases the rich Ilonggo culture and heritage. Iloilo City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog said that the yearly festival showcases very strong stakeholders’ support and cooperation for the great success of every developmental
endeavor in the city. He said that even former Puerto Princesa Mayor Edward Hagedorn of Palawan was amazed at the strong commitment and enthusiasm of the people behind the spectacular event. The Dinagyang Festival was recognized as the 1st Hall of Fame Best Tourism Event Awardee in 2009 by the Association of Tourism Officers of the
Canadians sight Metro Iloilo- Guimaras BY MONTESA GRIÑO-CAOYONAN The Philippine Ambassador to Canada, His Excellency Leslie Gatan said Iloilo and Guimaras have lot of investment and tourism potentials that could invite more investors to invest businesses here. “We look up some competitive advantage of what this region could offer which could not offer by other regions in the country”, he said during the investment fair forum with more than 300 Filipino-Canadian delegates at the Royal Garden Hall Convention Center here Tuesday. Gatan said the tour which is under the tourism project of the Local Government Support Program (LGSP) under the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) and the Canadian Urban Institute (CUI) is purposely to work together for the promotion of tourism and investment potentials of different regions in the country. He added the delegates will also here to study about the tourism investment of Metro Iloilo-Guimaras Economic Development Council especially those projects under the
Alimodian
Philippines (ATOP). It is also the first religious-cultural celebration in the country to be conferred the prestigious Galing Pook Award. Mabilog said he is confident that Dinagyang will continue to sustain the showcase of Ilonggo’s rich culture and heritage, the excellent craftsmanship, the outstanding talents and skills and being hailed as a world class festival. Iloilo Business Club (IBC) Executive Director Ma. Lea Victoria Lara said no other festivals are as harmonious as Dinagyang. “You cannot find a much better
model as Dinagyang when it comes to unifying the public and private sectors’, she said. With this year’s tagline “Bringing More Fun to the World,” Dinagyang remains to be the leading tourism, cultural, religious and socio-economic promotional vehicle and symbol of Iloilo City’s continuing progress and sustainable development. The two-day grand highlights of the festival will be the Kasadyahan regional cultural contest and the AtiAti tribes competition slated onJanuary 25-26, 2014.PIA6/IMT
Biz supports Dinagyang 2014
BY KHARIZA JOY SOFIA
Local Governance Support Program for Local Economic Development (LGSP-LED). The LGSP-LED is an eightyear collaborative project of the Governments of Canada and the Philippines since it’s started in 2008 to 2016. The goal of the program is to foster efficient, responsive, transparent and accountable governance at all levels while the purpose is to reduce poverty by strengthening local governance and supporting sustainable local economic development. The program is enabling to provide environment for local government units (LGUs) and improving the prospects for local economic development in various communities. IMT
Iloilo Business Club (IBC) executive director Maria Lea Victoria Lara said that the Iloilo City is all set for Dinagyang. She said that all committees are poised on their respective tasks and everything is in place. Iloilo has long lived up to the expectation of the tourist and will continue to do so in the coming years. Soon, Iloilo will cater all kinds of people from all walks of life when the Iloilo Business Park will rise. She added that the festival management is executing their jobs very well. “I have never seen a festival as harmonious as Dinagyang Festival”, Lara said. Lara added that those managing the food festival and suppliers are all set. She added that sponsors are very supportive, although the amount
pledges were lesser than that of last year. “It is understandable that the sponsors pledge lower amount since they have donated some amounts on the typhoon victims of Yolanda”, she explained. She said that the sponsors maintain their confidence in supporting the festival. Despite some of the sponsors are lost, new ones arrived. Lara added that Dinagyang is a well-oiled festival because the working relationship is good. She further added that the service sector, especially the hotels do not fail the city, along with food festivals and discounted rates. “Iloilo has never failed in hosting the event, the biz sector has stepped up and the police and the army are set to assure the security of the people watching”, Lara disclosed. IBC is in-charge of the promotions and marketing aspect of the worldrenowned festival.IMT
Pavia
January 26 - February 1, 2014
METRO BUSINESS
7
Iloilo-Guimaras Ferry Terminal on its way
BY MONTESA GRIÑO-CAOYONAN
The Private Public Partnership (PPP) between the Iloilo City Government and Double Dragon Properties Inc. formerly Injap Land Corporation relative to the P 260million Iloilo-Guimaras Ferry Terminal project is hoping to be materialized this first quarter of the year. This was confirmed by no less than City Administrator Norlito Bautista as they are waiting the investor to come to their office within this month to sign the joint venture agreement after the Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) of Iloilo City has already authorized City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog to enter into the agreement. Bautista, chairman of Bids and Awards Committee (BAC) said everything is in place after the Double Dragon legal counsel Atty. Joelito Barrera explained to the city council that on the 25-years contract with
industries. Under the PPP agreement, the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) will allot P125 million for the construction of the slope protection embankment and other site developments while the Double Dragon will provide P135 million for the construction of the terminal building.
Service sector is booming industry
BY KHARIZA JOY SOFIA Perspective of Iloilo-Guimaras Ferry Terminal. Photo Courtesy of CONCEP & MIGEDC
the city government, they will get 1 percent from terminal fees, 1 percent from berthing fees, 1 percent from cargo fees and another 1 percent from gross rental fees. City Mayor Jed Mabilog said he is positive that the ferry terminal project
will start early this year once they already signed the contract. Mabilog admitted that the proposed construction of ferry terminal project on the 1.2-hectare property in Parola, City Proper here will help boast Iloilo City’s tourism and investment
ICDEO to rehab 26 huge roads
BY KHARIZA JOY SOFIA
There is more for the city from the Iloilo City District Engineering Office (ICDEO) this 2014. Out of 18 projects in 2013, there are only two projects left for the agency to finish as expected on February. Engr. Rodney Gustilo, District Engineer of Iloilo City District Engineering Office, Buntatala and El 98 street are the two remaining projects on their 2013 budget plan. “Buntatala bridge is 70 percent done while El 98 street is 80 percent done. We expect the bridge to be finished by February”, Gustilo said.
The property where the Rotary Park once stood, is now owned by the government after President Benigno Simeon Aquino III issued a presidential proclamation for such only last year. The land is now shared by the city government, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and Philippine Coast Guard (PCG). IMT
He explained that the pace of El 98 Street will be according to the negotiation to the owners of the private properties surrounding the area. Nevertheless, Gustilo said that they are expecting the street to be finished by February. Meanwhile, Gustilo said that ICDEO have P445-million budget for 26 projects this year. The implementation will start on February and projects covered by P0-P20-million are expected to be accomplished by June while P20-P50million worth of projects are expected to be done by September.
He added that they can generate jobs with all the projects they are handling right now. “We can employ several engineers and contractors this 2014. We need 30 contractors in a project so if you multiply that by 26, which is the total number of projects we have this year, around 1000 individuals will have jobs”, said Gustilo. Roads included on the 2014 renovation budget are Iloilo – Dumangas road, Mandurriao – San Miguel road, Mandurriao – Pakiad road, rehabilitation of Iznart – Fort San Pedro roads, Rizal Bridge and Loboc Bridge.
The Iloilo Business Club (IBC) and Department of Trade Industry (DTI) both agreed that 2014 is going to be the year of the service industry. Real-estate properties, constructions, hotels, relocations, renovations and parks are on their way to rise in the metro. Ruby Milleza, Information Officer of DTI region 6, said that the rising number of hotels, pension houses and restaurants prove that the service sector is really the “in” business in the city. Moreover, Maria Lea Victoria Lara, executive director of IBC expects the completion of the exterior of the Convention Center before the year ends. L a r a sees the expansion of establishments, manpower services, and supplier of equipments, food products and facilities. Seaports, terminals and
the airport will also experience state-ofthe-art changes. “The Iloilo Airport needs more facilities and bigger space for departure and arrival areas”, Lara explained. IBC also foresee the major role of agriculture in the economy. Lara said that supply is very important for Iloilo has several restaurants and hotels. “Ilonggos are great food lovers. The restaurants are always full, she added. “All the vendors just need is to maintain the cleanliness and for the police to provide security for peace and order during the implementation”. Milleza assured the public that they can expect more sprouting businesses in 2014.IMT
,
It s more fun in the
®
Philippines
Aklan • Antique • Capiz • Guimaras • Iloilo • Negros Occidental Iloilo City • Bacolod City
REGION VI
LIST OF ACCREDITED TOURISM-ORIENTED AND TOURISM-RELATED ESTABLISHMENTS IN WESTERN VISAYAS TOURIST LAND TRANSPORT OPERATORS 1682 TOURIST TRANSPORT SERVICES/MILA Y. GAMOSA
Expiry: 4/30/2014 Address: 2nd St., Margarita Village, Brgy. II, San Carlos City, Negros Occidental Email: 1682transportservices@gmail.com Contact No.: (034) 729-8104/09228809092
A.M.C. TOURS/MARIVIC M. COCHING
Expiry: 4/30/2014 Address: 256 F. Carillo St., Poblacion, Numancia, Aklan Email: amc.tours@yahoo.com Contact No.: (036) 265-4321
ATI TOURS & TRAVEL
Expiry: 4/30/2014 Address: 407 Magdalena Village, Poblacion, Kalibo, Aklan Email: lot_marte@yahoo.com Contact No.: 09391196300
KALIBO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT TRANSPORT ASSOCIATION (KIATA), INC.
Expiry: 4/30/2014 Address: Coco Arcade, Kalibo International Airport, Kalibo, Aklan Email: inc.Kiata54@gmail.com Contact No.: (036) 268-1804
HPQ TRANS BUS LINER
Expiry: 4/30/2014 Address: Calle San Juan, LJ Ledesma Village II, Jaro, Iloilo City Email: tonettequerubin@yahoo.com Contact No.: (033) 508-1618
LAYOD’S TRANSPORT
BATANG’S CAR TOURISM CARRIER
Expiry: 4/30/2014 Address: Capital Kalibo, Aklan Email: maypretz_13@yahoo.com Contact No.: (036) 268-3404 / 09088741770
BORACAY LAND TRANSPORT MULTI-PURPOSE COOPERATIVE
Expiry: 4/30/2014 Address: Kalibo International Airport, Pook, Kalibo, Aklan Email: LEBoracayTours@gmail.com Contact No.: 09217729572
Expiry: 4/30/2014 Address: Poblacion, Lezo, Aklan Email: rene_fabila@yahoo.com.ph Contact No.: 09178918068
LE BORACAY TOURS
Expiry: 4/30/2014 Address: Tambisaan, Manocmanoc, Malay, Aklan Email: bltmpc50@yahoo.com.ph Contact No.: (036) 288-3271/ 09997140198
CBTMPC TRANSPORT
Expiry: 4/30/2014 Address: Caticlan, Malay, Aklan Email: juliusdrrtrans@yahoo.com Contact No.: (036) 288 7235/ 288 7101
NORTHSTAR TRANSPORT DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION, INC.
Expiry: 4/30/2014 Address: D. Maagma St., Kalibo, Aklan Email: momix_macaque@yahoo.com Contact No.: 09477154725
PARADISE NEST TOURIST TRANSPORT
DELMABEL PANAY TRAVEL & TOURS OPERATORS ASSO. INC.
Expiry: 4/30/2014 Address: Pastrana St., Kalibo, Aklan Email: noemi.panado@yahoo.com Contact No.: 09399396286
Expiry: 4/30/2014 Address: London & Pacific Realty Bldg., Pook, Kalibo, Aklan Email: discoverboracay@gmail.com Contact No.: (036) 272-1189/272-1188/500-7177
ISLAND STAR EXPRESS, INC.
Expiry: 4/30/2014 Address: Brgy. Balabag, Malay, Aklan, Malay, Aklan Email: mark@islandstarexpress.com Contact No.: (036) 288-6644 / 09175175297
JMP TRAVEL TOURS
Expiry: 4/30/2014 Address: Kalibo International Airport, Pook, Kalibo, Aklan Email: jmptraveltours@gmail.com Contact No.: 09494599201/ (036)268-1804
RESTAURANTS BAUHINIA FILIPINO CUISINE
EPIC RESTAURANT
Expiry: 9/25/2014 Address: Epic, D’ Mall Front Beach, Malay Aklan Email: epicboracay@yahoo.com.ph Contact No.: (036) 288-1477 / 288-1466
FLOYD’S BBQ HOUSE
Expiry: 5/7/2014 Address: 2nd Level The Atrium Mall, Gen. Luna Street, Iloilo City Email: joy_salvilla@yahoo.com Contact No.: (033) 337-3168 / 337-6168 Cuisine: Filipino
BORACAY HOBBIT HOUSE RESTAURANT
Expiry: 4/21/2014 Address: D’Mall, Brgy. Balabag, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan Email: sam_hobbit20@yahoo.com Contact No.: (036) 288-6687 Cuisine: International
TANGERINE BISTRO
Expiry: 10/29/2014 Address: Capiz Gov’t and Business Center, San Roque Ext., Roxas City, Capiz Email: josh_ciudad@yahoo.com Contact No.: (036) 620-1026 Cuisine: Asian
WATER TRANSPORT MV OYSTER FERRY
Expiry: 4/30/2013 Address: Caticlan Jetty Port, Brgy. Caticlan, Malay Aklan Email: efren_carpio@yahoo.ie Contact No.: 09178587738 / 09228277358
Expiry: 5/31/2014 Address: Brgy. Banica, Roxas City, Capiz Email: info@kapismansions.com Contact No.: (036) 621-7718/ 621-2159 Classification: Standard
LAWAAN GARDEN INN
Expiry: 5/31/2014 Address: Km. 2 Lawaan, Roxas City, Capiz Email: lawaangardenhotel@gmail.com Contact No.: (036) 621-6255 / 621-5208 Classification: Standard
SPA
SKINETICS MEDICAL DAY SPA & SKIN CENTER
Expiry: 8/31/2014 Address: YGQ Building, Boardwalk Ave., San Rafael, Mandurriao, Iloilo City Email: skinetics_iloilo@yahoo.com Contact No.: (033) 320- 8726
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: Oñate St., Mandurriao, Iloilo City Email: allstartravelilo@yahoo.com/bingwin1@ lycos.com Contact No.: (033) 321-1401/508-9183/ 0922-8899354
BORACAY ADVENTURES INC.
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: Golden Palace Brgy. Manoc-Manoc Boracay Is. Highway, Malay, Aklan Email: peter@boracayadventures.com Contact No.: (036) 288-2032 / 639209702728
BORACAY FAITHFULLY TRAVEL & TOURS
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: 2F Maxima De Boracay Resort, Malay, Aklan Email: claribel_boracay@yahoo.com Contact No.: (036) 288-2028 / 288-1864
DAVE TRAVEL AND TOURS
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: CAP Bldg., Gen. Luna St., Iloilo City Email: maerrol22ormas@yahoo.com Contact No.: (033) 335-0035
ELS TRAVEL & TOURS(MAIN)
Expiry: 4/30/2014 Address: 277 Magdalena Village, Kalibo, Aklan Email: paradisegardentravel@gmail.com Contact No.: 09209731109
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: G/F Sugarland Hotel, Araneta Street, Singcang, Bacolod City Email: filtoursbacolod@yahoo.com Contact No.: (034) 435-0445/704-1737/09173100857
RM BORACAY TOURIST VAN ASSOCIATION, INC.
Expiry: 4/30/2014 Address: 361, Quezon Avenue, Pook Kalibo, Kalibo, Aklan Email: roselynhermogenes@yahoo.com.ph Contact No.: 09189407031
WESTMINT TRANSPORT ASSOCIATION, INC.
Expiry: 4/30/2014 Address: L. Barrios St., Kalibo, Aklan Email: westmint.transport@gmail.com Contact No.: (036) 268-1474
COCOMANGAS SHOOTER BAR
Expiry: 5/2/2014 Address: Bgry. Balabag, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan Email: info@cocomangas.com Specialty Products: Cocomanggas pizza and 15 types of different drink Contact No.: (036) 288-6384
HENRY’S MJCJ WINES AND LIQUORS
Expiry: 5/7/2014 Address: G22 Madrid Bldg., Plazuela De Iloilo, Sen. B. Aquino Ave., Mandurriao, Iloilo City Email: henrysmjcj@yahoo.com Specialty Products: Wines and Liquors Contact No.: (033) 333-3788
RALPH’S WINE & SPIRITS
Expiry: 4/24/2014 Address: D Mall, Zone VI, Brgy. Balabag, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan Email: boracay.ralphs@gmail.com Specialty Products: Wines and Spirits Contact No.: (036) 288-6394
DEPARMENT STORES/ SHOPPING MALLS BUDGET MART
FILIPINIANA TOURS AND TRAVEL
GIDCELS TRAVEL AND TOURS INC.
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: G/F Robinsons Place Iloilo Mabini Wing, Mabini Street, Iloilo City Email: gidcelsbetsy_travel@yahoo.com Contact No.: (033) 338-1330
GTI TICKETS & TOURS
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: Gen. Luna Street, Iloilo City Email: godiz_travel@yahoo.com.ph Contact No.: (033) 336-4778, 3969699, 3001143
IEXPLORE TRAVELS UNLIMITED CO.
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: Door 1A, AJL Bldg, Brgy. Villa Anita, Gen. Luna Street, Iloilo City Email: iexploretravel@yahoo.com Contact No.: (033)336-6011/(033)5088110
ISLANDS LINK TRAVEL & TOUR
NESTAS HILLTOP HOTEL & RESTAURANT
Expiry: 5/30/2014 Address: Station 1, Balabag Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan Email: elopez@discovery.com.ph Contact No.: (036) 288-4500/288-4507 Classification: AAA
MAJESTIC DOLPHIN TRAVEL AGENCY, INC.
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: 1st Floor “M” Bdg., JBLFMU Compound, M. H. del Pilar St., Iloilo City Email: majesticdolphin@yahoo.com Contact No.: (033)336-8793
MY BORACAY GUIDE
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: 2nd Floor, Regency Lagoon Bldg., Balabag, Malay, Aklan Email: info@myboracayguide.com Contact No.: (036) 288-9999 /09088910172
PARADISE WORLD TRAVEL AND TOURS
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: 2nd Floor, RM 12-B, Jamerlan Bldg., Iznart Street, Iloilo City Email: paradisewrld04@yahoo.com Contact No.: (033) 335-8558 / 09184825073/ 396-4735
PARTNERS TRAVEL & TOURS
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: Door 3, San Mars Point Bldg Gen. Luna Street, Iloilo City Email: partners_trvl@yahoo.com.ph Contact No.: (033) 336-8174/ 336-9503
RAKSO AIR TRAVEL AND TOURS INC. BORACAY BRANCH
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: D’ Mall Station 2, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan Email: br.sales@raksotravel.com Contact No.: (036) 288-2419 to 20 / 036-2882421
SIESTA EN LA ISLA TRAVEL AND TOURS
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: Arnaldo Blvd. Brgy.baybay, Roxas City Email: skyhightravelandtours@yahoo.com Contact No.: (036) 522-8017
SN TRAVELHOUSE & TOURS
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: GF Sea Breeze Hotel Bldg. San Juan St,. Bacolod City Email: sntrvl@yahoo.com Contact No.: (034) 434-5242/ 433-9884
TICKETS TO GO! TRAVEL & TOURS, INC.
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: 3rd Level The Atrium Mall, General Luna Street, Iloilo City Email: ticketstogo2007@gmail.com Contact No.: (030) 396-5168
TIMELINE TRAVEL AND TOURS
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: Rizal Street, Roxas City, Capiz Email: timelinetraveltours@yahoo.com Contact No.: 09177245700 / (036) 522-2494
TRAVEL EXPERTS CENTER
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: TL-01 Southwind Terminal, SM City Bacolod, Reclemation Area, Bacolod City Email: travel_experts@yahoo.com.ph Contact No.: (034) 468-0092 / 09173015411 / (034) 707-8338
TRAVEL & MARKETING EXPERTS CORP.
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: Unit-11 Amigo Plaza Mall, Iznart Street, Iloilo City Email: jmgalotera@yahoo.com Contact No.: (033) 338-2838
VIAJE ROYALE TOURS AND EVENTS SERVICES CO.
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: Stall # 5, Bolabog Apartelle At English Bakery, Balabag, Boracay Is., Malay, Aklan Email: viajeroyaletours@yahoo.com Contact No.: (036) 288-1369
WINGS & WAVES TRAVEL SERVICES, INC.
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: Lower Ground Floor, SM City, Mandurriao, Iloilo City Email: wingsnwaves09@gmail.com Contact No.: (033) 320-0733
WINKLINE TRAVEL & TOURS
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: Mezzanine Flr., Casa Plaza Bldg., Gen. Luna Street, Iloilo City Email: mdvelez_albana@yahoo.com Contact No.: (033) 338-3267
YM TRAVEL SERVICES
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: G/F Mayfair Plaza, 12th &13th Lacson St., Bacolod City, Negros Occidental Email: ymtravel0809@yahoo.com Contact No.: (034) 435-5795/09186703800
Expiry: 5/31/2014 Address: Punta Bunga Cove, Brgy. Yapak, Boracay, Malay, Aklan Email: bcantos@solmarinaresort.com Contact No.: (036) 288-2256/ 288-2289 Classification: AA
PARADISE GARDEN BORACAY RESORT HOTEL & CONVENTION CENTER
Expiry: 5/31/2014 Address: Sitio Manggayad, Brgy. Manoc Manoc, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan Email: mae_depedro@yahoo.com Contact No.: (036) 288-3728/288-3557 Classification: AAA
TOUR GUIDES ALUNAN, CONSORCIA ERLYN SAVARIZ
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: M. H. del Pilar Street, Iloilo City Email: erlynalunan@yahoo.com Contact No.: (033) 314 7492 / 09179857804
ANTILA, ERNESTO VILLANUEVA
BORROMEO, AMBROSIO
DE LOS REYES, MARILOU BOLIVAR
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: Sitiio Tambisaan, Malay, Aklan Email: mariloubolivar@yahoo.com Contact No.: 09174996953
DELOS SANTOS, WINARD RONQUILLO
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: Manoc-manoc, Malay, Aklan Email: winarddelossantos@yahoo.com.ph Contact No.: 09162549910
FERNANDO, HAYDEN CENTINO
BULAHAN, RAMONITO INONOG
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: Sitio Diniwid, Brgy. Balabag Boracay Is., Malay, Aklan Email: deanxyz@yahoo.com Contact No.: 09186159819
CASIMERO, JEANNE MARTINEZ
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: Balusbos, Malay, Aklan Email: juanitoflores63@yahoo.com Contact No.: 09127849024
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: Zone 4, Malay, Aklan Email: ramonitobulahan@yahoo.com.ph Contact No.: 09483557252
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: Sitio Angol, Manoc-Manoc, Malay, Aklan Email: jeanneofboracay@yahoo.com Contact No.: 09399029748
DABALOS, CHRISTOPHER AQUINO
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: Balabag Boracay Malay, Aklan Email: topherdove@yahoo.com Contact No.: 09107858883
TOURISM RECREATION
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: Dumlog, Malay, Aklan, Email: rodel1484@yahoo.com.ph Contact No.: 09058911286 / 09461145328
Expiry: 7/31/2014 Address: Bata Subd., Bacolod City Email: negrosgolf@yahoo.com Contact No.: (034) 441-1190 to 91 / 09173008870
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: Door 9, CLJ Bldg, Plaza Rizal Jaro, Iloilo City Email: contactus@smallvilletravel.com Contact No.: (033) 508-8178 / 3292517 / 09209284638
SKYHIGH TRAVEL AND TOURS SERVICES
RESORTS
Expiry: 5/31/2014 Address: Provincial Park , Roxas City, Capiz Email: nestasroxascity@yahoo.com Contact No.: (036) 621-1185 / 621-2609 Classification: Standard
NEGROS OCCIDENTAL GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB, INC.
LAL SMALLVILLE TRAVEL AND TOURS
SOL MARINA RESORT BORACAY
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: Purok Matahum, Brgy. Pari, Mansilingan, Bacolod City Email: bambinoborromeo@yahoo.com Contact No.: (034) 446-2439
L’ FISHER HOTEL
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: Rm 103, VSB Building, 6th-Lacson Streets, Bacolod City Email: Jaunts2008@yahoo.com Contact No.: (034) 435-1122/ 709-1122
DISCOVERY SHORES BORACAY
CRAFTS OF BORACAY, INC.
Expiry: 5/31/2014 Address: 14th Lacson Street Bacolod City Email: finmanager@lfisherhotelbacolod.com Contact No.: (034)433-3731 Classification: First Class
JAUNTS AND JOURNEYS TRAVEL CENTRE
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: Villa Beach Zone 3, Cadiz City, Negros Occidental Email: josephneil_dugayo12@yahoo.com.ph Contact No.: 09396101073/(034) 466-0214
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: Brgy. Balabag, Boracay Is., Malay, Aklan Email: ernz.eva28@yahoo.com Contact No.: 09214093732
Expiry: 5/7/2014 Address: 0216, Main Road, Balabag, Malay Aklan Email: craftsofboracay@yahoo.com.ph Contact No.: (036) 288-6857/288-5874
ILOILO SKY WAYS TRAVEL & TOURS
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: Marymart Mall, Bldg II, Valeria Street, Iloilo City Email: skyways1995@gmail.com Contact No.: (033) 337-9723/ 336-2858
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: Door 3 Sunny Side Residence, Jalandoni Street, Iloilo City Email: islandslink@yahoo.com.ph Contact No.: (033) 333-0125/396-7353
Expiry: 12/11/2014 Address: Phase IV, D’Mall Of Boracay, Main Road, Station 2, Brgy. Balabag, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan Email: arnold@budgetmart.com.ph Contact No.: (036) 288-5985/288-5983
HOTELS KAPIS MANSIONS
ALL STAR TRAVEL & EVENTS COMPANY
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: 116-A Ledesma Street, Iloilo City Email: elstrvl@yahoo.com Contact No.: (033) 336-4891/92/93
SPECIALTY SHOPS
Expiry: 12/1/2014 Address: The Avenue Complex, Glicerio Pison Ave., Brgy. San Rafael, Mandurriao, Iloilo City Email: bauhinia08@yahoo.com Contact No.: (033) 329-6951 Cuisine: Filipino
ACCESSWORLD TRAVEL & TOURS
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: #5 R. Erillo Realty Ventures Bldg., J. Y. Perez Hiway, Kabangkalan, Negros Occidental Email: acc_world2@yahoo.com Contact No.: (034) 471-2189
Expiry: 4/30/2014 Address: Brgy. Gibon, Nabas, Aklan Email: dalisaynemesio@yahoo.com.ph Contact No.: (036) 288-7658
PARADISE GARDEN TRAVEL AND TRANSPORT SERVICES
DISCOVER BORACAY TRAVEL AND TOURS
TRAVEL AND TOUR AGENCIES
DACLAG, RODEL MALICSE
DE JULIAN, LESTER P.
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: 220D Democracia St, Jaro, Iloilo City Email: lester_guide@yahoo.com Contact No.: (033) 329-1743/09297878618
FLORES, JUANITO OCZON
GAQUIT, GIRLIE PEÑAFIEL
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: Zone-3 Brgy. Poblacion, Nueva Valencia, Guimaras Email: babygirl_gaquit@yahoo.com Contact No.: 09462010736
GARCERA, LOVELEEN DESLATE
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: Cubay Sur, Malay, Aklan Email: loveleen_garcera@yahoo.com.ph Contact No.: 09995409260
JUYANAN, GABRIELA MAY MAGLAOY
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: Ilaya 1st Dumangas, Iloilo Email: gabhie_mei@yahoo.com.ph Contact No.: (033) 361-0234 / 09108067520
LACSON, ARTURO LEDESMA
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: Los Angeles St., Bacolod City Email: arturo_lacson2000@yahoo.com.ph Contact No.: (034) 707-0119/09192354734
LAZARITO, MARIO
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: 429-A Rizal Street, Iloilo City Email: mariolazarito@yahoo.com Contact No.: (033) 3375411/ 09399365422
ORTEGA, MELANIE YULORES
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: 9 Jereos Extension, La Paz, Iloilo City Email: melanieortega18@yahoo.com Contact No.: 09272444111 / 09298812688
OZARAGA, SUSALYN TINGCANG
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: Manoc-Manoc, Malay, Aklan Email: ozaragasusalyn@yahoo.com Contact No.: 09292754028
PALACIOS, BERNADINE A.
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: 7-B Oñate St., Mandurriao, Iloilo City Email: bingwin1@lycos.com Contact No.: (033) 3211-401/508-9183/ 09228899354
SANTIAGO, APRIL JOY GARVILLES
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: Blk. 6, Lot 35, Centennial Townshome, Alta Tierra Village, Iloilo City Email: apol_joy16@yahoo.com (033) 508-5212/09194532286
TAY, PETER
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: Penthouse Lions Den, Boracay Is. Highway, Brgy. Balabag, Malay, Aklan Email: peter@petertay.org Contact No.: (336) 288-2032 / 09209702728
VISORIO, ROPHINE GREGORIO
Expiry: 6/30/2014 Address: Magallanes Street, Roxas City, Capiz Email: rvlv77@yahoo.com Contact No.: 09205555888
dot region vi
2013 Accomplishment Report
The year 2013 was a good year for the tourism industry in Western Visayas as the Department of Tourism Region VI continued to rally Western Visayas residents, Filipinos and foreigners alike to “Experience Western Visayas First” and enjoy Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Guimaras, Iloilo, Negros Occidental and the highly urbanized cities of Bacolod and Iloilo. As 2013 ended, Western Visayas had a partial of 2,695,580 reported tourist arrivals broken down to 73.23% domestic, 24.95% foreign and 1.81% overseas Filipino visitors. This figure represents 86.98% of the total 2012 tourist arrivals of 3,099,018. The tourist arrivals for 2013 were seen to surpass those of 2012 despite the devastation brought about by super Typhoon Yolanda to certain tourist destinations in the region. Training programs were conducted/organized by DOT Region VI in different provinces in Western Visayas to enhance the skills and capabilities of tourism industry and LGUs manpower which included tour guides, boatmen/ fishermen, lifeguards, tricycle drivers/taxi drivers, policemen, communitybased rural tourism members, and other frontliners. Trainings were also conducted for the local government units’ tourism and planning officers and staff on proper data gathering, basic tourism statistics method and submission of report using the Standard Local Tourism Statistics System (SLTSS). A total of 45 trainings/seminars with 6,411 participants (3,870 males and 2,541 females) were conducted in 2013. DOT Region VI divided the region into four (4) Tourism Development Areas (TDA) to reinforce tourism industry as a whole. TDA 1 is Metro Iloilo-Guimaras; TDA 2 is Bacolod-Silay, Negros Occidental; TDA 3 is Boracay-Kalibo-Northern Antique; and TDA 4 is Capiz. Trainings/seminars conducted/facilitated per TDA were 19 for Metro IloiloGuimaras, with 1,066 participants (647 males and 419 females) where other LGUs also sent participants; 8 trainings/seminars with 2,093 participants (967 males and 1,126 females) for Bacolod-Silay, Negros Occidental; 14 trainings/ seminars with 2,535 participants (1,963 males and 572 females) for BoracayKalibo-Northern Antique; and 4 trainings/seminars with a total number of 717 participants (293 males and 474 females) for Capiz. In the area of promotion and marketing, DOT Region VI initiated, assisted, coordinated and attended 56 international, national, regional and local festivals, special events, exhibitions and travel missions and fairs. Promotion and reception activities were extended to four (4) cruise ship arrivals in Boracay Island with 6,938 passengers and crew. As part of its public relations activities, DOT VI produced/distributed/ printed/aired brochures (40,000 copies), bag tags (586 pieces), eco bags (416 pieces), T-shirts (1,179 pieces); tarpaulins/streamers (1,471 pieces), It’s More Fun Video (100 copies); radio ads (3 times per day for 3 months), newspaper ads (10 times), TV ads airing (2 times). Media interviews totaled 135 times within the year which generated 540 radio, TV and print media news. DOT VI Sub-Office in Boracay upheld its commitment to deliver assistance to local and foreign tourists in the island of Boracay. It coordinated 36 special projects and events. The office also contributed much on the increase of the DOT-accredited tourism businesses in Boracay Island, Kalibo and Roxas City. DOT VI Regional and Boracay Offices provided travel information and other services to tourists and the general public. Brochures, maps, and
information on resorts, historical sites, scenic areas and other tourist attractions in Western Visayas were provided by both offices to a total of 2,769 foreign and domestic tourists. DOT VI certified and justified road projects in convergence with Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and Local Government Units (LGUs) and Congressional Offices in Region VI. The Tourism Road Infrastructure Program convergence of DOT VI with DPWH VI, LGUs and Congressional Offices in the region yielded twenty one (21) approved and implemented ATTY. HELEN J. CATALBAS road projects, namely: (1) Boracay Regional Director Circumferential Road Malay, Aklan; (2) Tangalan – Ibajay Road in Aklan; (3) Road extension in Barangay Cagay, Roxas City; (4) Road from Ulalo to Brgy. Tabun-acan, Pilar, Capiz; (5) Road from national highway to Balisong Hills, Pilar, Capiz; (6) Agmalubo Mantog, Ivisan Capiz; (7) Upgrading (Asphalt to Concrete) Guimaras Circumferential Road (2 segments); (8) Upgrading (Gravel to Concrete) Guimaras Circumferential Road; (9) Upgrading (Asphalt to Concrete) Rizal to Jordan Wharf Road; (10) Iloilo City – Jaro Road; (11) Iloilo City – Tacas Road; (12) Iloilo – Antique Road; (13) Iloilo Coastal Road to Dumangas Port with Drainage; (14) Bacolod-Murcia-Don Salvador Benedicto-San Carlos Road, Negros Occidental; (15) Access Road to Patag Valley, Silay City, Negros Occidental; (16) Access Road to The Ruins, Talisay City, Negros Occidental; (17) Silay-Lantawon-Patag Road, Negros Occidental; (18) Access Road to Guwahon Resort Road, Victorias City, Negros Occidental; (19) Access Road to Mambukal Resort Road, Murcia, Negros Occidental; (20) Punta-Taytay, Bacolod City; and (21) Bacolod City Boundary Road. DOT Region VI heightened the campaign for accreditation of tourist establishments to provide quality and high-standard facilities and services. A total of 139 tourism stakeholders/tourism-related establishments (TREs) were accredited and monitored in Western Visayas region including department stores/shopping malls (2), hotels (12), resorts (38), spa centers (3), restaurants (5), specialty shops (3), tour guides (25), tourist inns (2), tourist land transport operators (19), tourist water transport operator (1), tourism recreation (1), travel and tour agencies (29). Despite limited resources, these DOT Region VI accomplishments were made possible through hard work, market confidence, teamwork, strong publicprivate partnership and convergence with local governments and other national government agencies. These partnerships enriched the tourist experience in Western Visayas and helped attain a sustainable tourism growth of the region.
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
Republic of the Philippines DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS AND HIGHWAYS Region VI – Western Visayas ILOILO CITY DISTRICT ENGINEERING OFFICE OFFICE OF THE DISTRICT ENGINEER Fort San Pedro Road, Iloilo City Tel. Nos. 337-83-87; 337-32-63
Department of Public Works and Highways Region VI - under the leadership of Regional Director Edilberto Tayao is ranked no. 3 out of thirteen (13) Regional Offices nationwide. This accomplishment is thru the collective accomplishment of fifteen (15) District Offices of the Regional Office in terms of project implementation of CY 2013 DPWH-Regular funds. The top five (5) District Offices in Region VI, as of December 31, 2013 in terms of project implementation are Negros 2nd District Engineering Office under D.E Melosantos, Capiz 1st District Engineering Office under DE. Sonny Boy Oropel, Iloilo City District Engineering Office under D.E Gustilo, Negros 3rd District Engineering Office under D.E hayde Alunan and Bacolod City District Engineering Office under D.E Noel Pineda. Iloilo City Engineering Office will resume the implementation of CY 2014 DPWH Regular Infrastructure funded projects upon receipt of the General Appropriation Act ABM, however, the winning bidder of these projects have signified their intentions to resume the project implementation after the Dinagyang Celebration to effect the early completion of these projects before the end of the year to maintain the good standing of Iloilo City DEO. Iloilo City DEO under the leadership of D.E Rodney Gustilo and Assistant D.E Marilou Zamora and its staff is continuously introducing innovation in its management policies consistent with the thrust of Secretary Rogelio Singson and ensures punctual releases of benefits of employees, enhance the spirit of teamwork and camaraderie’s among its employees to continue good performance of the Iloilo City DEO for the current year. Aside from the projects funded under the DPWH-Regular fund in the amount of P445,000,000.00, there will be additional fund releases from DOT, DEP ED, DA, PAGCOR and Road Board that wil be release thru the consistent representation and endorsement of Honorable Jerry P. Treñas, Congressman Lone District, Iloilo City.
Task force monitors loitering minors, street children on Dinagyang BY MONTESA GRIÑO CAOYONAN
ODICTA
The Task Force on Internet and Gaming Center AntiPiracy and Pornography (IGCAPP) will strictly enforce the city ordinance that prohibits minors from loitering around the city from 11:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m. of the following day especially during the week-long celebration of the Dinagyang Festival. Eugene Isagani Maestro of IGCAPP said the Iloilo City Government has created Ordinance No. 2006020 enforcing the curfew to minimize cases of juvenile delinquency. Just this week, the task force has rescued more than 30 minors including street children in different districts here. He said most of the rescued minors were seen roaming aimlessly in Jaro district here. Immediately, Maestro said rescued minors were turned over to the City Social Welfare and Development Office
(CSWDO) for safekeeping before properly turning them over to their parents or guardians. “Some rescued minors were allegedly engaged in petty crimes,” he said. Maestro added only minors accompanied by their parents or guardians are exempted from the curfew. IGCAPP director Ben Palma Jr. said there is no let-up in their operation to protect the minors and stop them from engaging in some unlawful activities like prostitution, drunkenness, gambling, and mendicancy.IMT
P88 Million...from page 5
Aquino Jr. Avenue (Diversion Road) and General Luna St., Iloilo City. Iloilo City District Engineering Office District Engineer Rodney Gustilo said that immediately after the Dinagyang Festival celebration, the expansion of the other side of the road will resume.IMT
14-storey...from page 5
deck with its exclusive swimming pool and kiddie pool and pool lounge, a Jacuzzi, a state-of-the-art fitness gym, a spacious social hall, a daycare center and children’s play area, a reading nook and garden and a covered sitting area. The project, which is set to be finished by 2018, is projecting sales of around P1.4-billion for this project this year. Megaworld now has a total of 684 units in its 72-hectare township development in the old Iloilo Airport in Mandurriao District where Richmonde Hotel, Courtyard by Marriott and the Iloilo Convention Center (ICC) are located. Richmonde Hotel Iloilo is expected to be operational by early next year while Courtyard by Marriott and ICC are now under construction. IMT
the way during the Dinagyang period. “We have finished the bridge more than a month ahead of the target date of completion which is supposedly on March 25 to be accessible to the public”, Tayao said. The rehabilitation and expansion of the bridge started last July 25 connecting Diversion Bridge to the Sen. Benigno Palmares-Fong, head of marketing for residential business, Iloilo Business Park. The residential building is situated right adjacent to the three-tower One Madison Place, Megaworld’s first residential condominium cluster. Inspired with the charm and elegance of the chateaus and centro-villas in France and Spain, Lafayette will be its first themed residential tower in the metro featuring the classy and refined lifestyle of the Europeans. “We are very excited to introduce a new concept for Iloilo. Because of the overwhelming reception of the Ilonggo market to Megaworld’s first residential condominium cluster, we want to offer something new, elegant and sophisticated. We believe the European feel will be a perfect fit for the upscale Iloilo market,” Fong said. The units vary from studio to three bedroom layouts, the biggest of which is expansive with more than 100 square meters of floor area. The tower’s ground level will feature an arcade of commercial and retail shops. Lafayette Park Square will feature a third floor amenity
REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES CITY OF ILOILO OFFICE OF THE CITY TREASURER Ground Floor Iloilo City Plaza Libertad, Iloilo City 5000 Tel. No. (033) 333-1111
NOTICE OF PAYMENT OF REAL PROPERTY TAXES FOR CALENDAR YEAR 2014 Pursuant to Section 233, 235, 236, 246, 249 and 250 of RA 7160, otherwise known as the Local Government Code of 1991, notice is hereby served that payment of ONE AND A HALF PERCENT (1.5%) Basic Tax on Lands and TWO PERCENT (2%) Basic Tax on buildings, machineries and other improvements; the additional ONE PERCENT (1%) Ad valorem on Residential Idle Lands and the additional two percent (2%) Ad valorem on Commercial, Agricultural & Industrial Idle Lands for Calendar Year 2014, shall become due and payable on the first day of January 2014. The said taxes however, may be paid in four (4) equal installments without penalty at the discretion of the taxpayer as follows: 1st Installment - on or before March 31, 2014 2nd Installment - on or before June 30, 2014 3rd Installment - on or before September 30, 2014 4th Installment - on or before December 31, 2014 These Basic Taxes, additional 1% Special Education Fund and 1% and 2% tax on idle lands shall be collected simultaneously. A TEN PERCENT (10%) discount shall be granted to any taxpayer who pays within the prescribed period of payment. Payment of the said taxes shall be effected in the Office of the City Treasurer, City Hall, Iloilo City. Taxes may also be paid at the Office of the Provincial, City or Municipal Treasurer where the taxpayer resides. Payment of the said taxes after the dates indicated above shall subject the taxpayer to a penalty of TWO PERCENT (2%) for each month of delinquency until the said tax is fully paid. However, in no case shall the total interest on the unpaid tax or portion thereof exceed thirty six (36) months. If at the end of the calendar year payment of the said taxes has not been effected, the remedies provided in Section 256, 257, 258, 260 and 266 of RA 7160, otherwise known as the Local Government Code of 1991, will be availed of by this Office. Iloilo City, November 18, 2013
Nava
Congratulations Iloilo Metropolitan Times their 1st Anniversary!
to the staff of
in
Iloilo Police Provincial Office is one with your campaign in highlighting Iloilo as a safe place to live, work and do business. Ipadayon ang krusada para sa mainuswagon nga Iloilo!
From
PSSUPT CORNELIO R SALINAS MPA/PESE Provincial Director And the Officers and men of Iloilo Police Provincial Office
January 26 - February 1, 2014
METRO AGRICULTURE
15
Problems are Opportunities (2): Urban Gardening can be easy
Food particularly vegetables and meat had become scarce right after Typhoon Yolanda. Now that we are gradually recovering, another question cropped up: everything has become expensive. While once you can buy a slice of squash for P10.00, the smallest slice is now P20.00. A small bunch of leaf onions with 3 pcs., would now sell for P10.00, easily translating to P150 or more per kilogram of this necessary kitchen spice for Ilonggos. Even indigenous nutritious vegetables like alugbati, tagabang, kulitis and lupo suddenly became scarce and when they reappeared, they cost like imported vegetables, leaving consumers with limited choices and getting into the habit of eating without
Bowl of cheerry tomatoes vegetables in their diets. But this should not be so. Even urban dwellers can have their fill of these health-giving vegetables right in the confines of their homes, albeit on a limited space. Every nook and cranny with ample sunlight can become growing areas for table essentials. One simply has to have the basic requirements for a good crop vegetables right at home. Planting areas: the urban gardener’s first hurdle is the place to plant or where to situate the planting area. Most vegetables need sunlight so the obvious place is where there is sunlight for most part of the day. So a place with at least 6 hours sunlight would offer the best location for the planting area. Containers: Any container would do but for aesthetics, use uniform containers. For vegetables harvested within 30-60 days, a 3 to 5 liters container would be ideal. After harvest, one can simply pull out the vegetable and replace soil or at the very least add more organic fertilizers. For longer growing or frequently harvested vegetables, one can use larger vessels like the 10 liters to 20 liters pet bottles. Eggplants and tomatoes would grow best in 20 liters containers. Soil media: Vegetables need the
Close up of first kalamansi fruit best soil for balanced growth which results to nutritious food. Chemically fertilized vegetables at most offer limited nutrients, mostly those that can be processed from the main or macro fertilizers like Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium and some bits of micro nutrients that results to large leaved
Kalamansi on a large pot plants but poor on nutritional value. When organic fertilizers are used, plants grow slowly but its nutrition is complete, it would also offer large amounts of nutrients to the eater because of the complete nutrient profile it contains. This had been substantiated by many researches from past to present. One basic mix that I often do is the 1:1 mix of organic matter and garden soil. If coconut husks are available, I chop them up and add them as the added 1:1:1 mix which makes the soil in the pot last longer and has much less compaction resulting to lesser frequency of soil replacement. With frequent watering with a weak solution of liquid fertilizers, the pot can hold several planting of vegetables. To make one’s own organic matter or fertilizer, one need not look far. He can start with organic kitchen waste
Close up of cherry tomato and some other materials that can be composted like waste paper, cartons and similar materials, The easiest and fastest way to decompose organic matter would be to use the ubiquitous garbage bag, the black one since black absorbs the sun’s heat better. Gather all the bio-degradable waste, wet with a solution of probiotics or the Indigenous Microorganisms (IMO) concentrate at the rate of 1 glass per 1 liters and water the waste matter. Seal tightly for two to three weeks and when you open it, it will smell a bit sweetish but the entire batch should already be black and decomposed. You can now expose this to open air so that the aerobic bacteria and fungus can now work on them for total decomposition. By the second month, it should be ready for use. By decomposing the biodegradable wastes that we generate, we accomplish two major triumphs: helping out the city government’s waste disposal problem and make nutrient rich fertilizer at the same time. One can also make his own foliar and liquid fertilizer from kitchen waste.
Container garden Save the rice, fish and meat washings Kangkong and camote leaves can be in a large pail. Measure a proportion harvested every 7-10 days as they grow of 2:1 of fish or meat washings to rice fast when right after harvest, they are washings. The rice washing is good dosed with liquid fertilizers. They can food for the lactobacilli which also be productive for as long as six months feeds on the complex protein of the before they are again repotted. fish/meat washings to modify them Eggplants and tomatoes are good into simple amino acids which also pot-grown vegetables provided they become nitrates that can be absorbed are planted in a large pot, like 20-30 and utilized by the plants. One can liters capacity. The used cement bag is add IMO to give more food for the good enough to grow an eggplant for bacteria for faster decomposition. Fish as long as 6 months. They would fruit solutions are good sources of nitrogen well especially when they are regularly to accelerate the growth of potted fertilized. We had some eggplants that vegetables. To use, dissolve about a bore up to eight fruits simultaneously cup of the fish solution in 2-3 liters of on a cement bag and was regularly water and water every week at the rate fertilized with liquid manure tea. of 2-3 cups of the weak solution. The use of earthworm manure or casting, popularly called vermi-cast as organic fertilizer is also recommended. One can get his seed stocks of the African Night Crawlers from any known source and start on a small area or even in pails. One feeds earthworms with semi decomposing vegetables and weed trimmings. They are relatively easy to grow but one has to watch for ants and pests that attack earthworms. Vegetables to grow: Where there is an area where roots can penetrate deep into the soil, one can establish one or Tagabang on a fence box instead of flowers two malunggay (moringa) trees for a constant supply of fresh leaves. For potted vegetables, one rule of thumb that I discovered is that generally, one liter of rich soil can supply the requirements of vegetables for a month. So for lettuce, pechay and similar vegetables, a 1.5 liter pet bottle of cola is enough to produce a rich harvest within 30-40 days from planting. As soon as they are harvested, change the soil and plant another crop of these subt r o p i c a l vegetables. Kangkong, alugbati and kamote should be given a large container since they grow fast but exhaust soil nutrients fast. Alugbati is the heaviest consumer of soil nutrients. They are not good for container gardening unless you regularly water them and provide frequent fertilization either directly to the soil or through liquid application.
Cherry tomatoes grown on hydroponics Onions and chives which are grown for their leaves are among the popular vegetables to grow in small containers and pots. We usually grow them in 5x8 plastic bags or ½ the 1.5 liters pet bottles and in 60 days or so, we harvest 5-7 pcs per bottle or pot. We also regularly water them with a weak solution of manure tea or fish solution which hastens their growth and gets them to branch faster. Yes, urban gardening is easy and one can get both physical and emotional satisfaction from growing one’s food.
HON. JC RAHMAN NAVA Representative Lone District of Guimaras
METRO OPINION
18 EDITORIAL
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DOS
t has been a year since this paper started and joined the mainstream local print media in circulation. The beginning is dull and the means is vague. The end though is clear-a standout regional business-tourism weekly paper must see its publication. Iloilo Metropolitan Times was born and like any other first-borns the excitement and the struggle blend like forever. The anticipation of being acknowledged and recognized and identified with the paper is a proven stress-reliever among the production pool. The good side of the news story, the business area of the city and the money in tourism as the paper’s thrust and content has delivered a good proportion of readers for the paper. The narrative though does not end here. Eventually, the paper has to confront a litany of hardships as it thrives to achieve excellence if not dominance. Iloilo is not a reading market. The dominant medium is radio and television. Literacy and the economic status play a vital role in the marketing of the paper and in determining its niche. The business community is hesitant if not unsupportive of placing their money on print advertising. Moreover, the attitude of the public is a bit biased as it sees the media industry as a hostile critic and player. As it is, advertising is the blood of any medium. The meager “blood” supply of the paper resulted to delays in salaries and benefits of the organization. It has also caused several adjustments in its pages and colors. Yet it has been a year from today since Iloilo and the whole of Panay, Guimaras and Palawan saw Iloilo Metropolitan Times printed and circulated. The whole organization wounded, has chosen not to yield and surrender but instead boldly present itself to another year of struggle and war. Battle-tested, the men and women of Iloilo Metropolitan Times will proudly wear their scars in 2013 and move forward to face 2014 to serve the region with consistency and distinction in its journalistic endeavor. This is our second year. We aim for DOS, that is becoming a bi-weekly before the year of the wooden horse ends.
The Pedicab Tourism
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nstead of discriminating, why not make our pedicabs an integral part of tourism? In a country where unemployment and poverty dwell in the same definition, why marginalize the pedicab drivers who instead of begging for job hire and casual employment to the powers-that-be in the locality, peddle their wheels to hot and cold temperature in the streets just to earn a living for their families? True enough, our local ordinances just want to regulate the pedicab units in the city, but there is always this pronouncement that these are eye sores ; and that their drivers are hard-headed, insentitive to four-wheel motorists and other terminologies that reduce them to second class citizens without the benefit of a defense lawyer. In actual practice, the “ loading and unloading” as well
as the “on-road parking” culprits are those driving their four-wheel vehicles and not these three-wheel vehicles. Considering the obvious disparity in size against buses, jeepneys and vans, who do you think among them aggravate the snail-paced traffic flow in the city? Common sense tells us the obvious. This is the problem with the society where the less empowered are oftentimes the receiving end of conviction without a fair trial. Instead of giving them credit for deloading the law enforcers’ jobs against street crimes, the pedicab drivers are viewed otherwise. As the DOT promotes experiential tourism, why not include these pedicab units and drivers to the fun? While I was in Cambodia for a short-lived study grant in the mid 2000, the whole Southeast Asian contingent was amazed of their motorcycles as the main mode of transportation even in the capital city of Pnom
SR. STO. NIÑO T
he feast of Señor Sto. Niño is uniquely celebrated in the Philippines, most especially in the Visayas islands. In Cebu, the Cebuanos celebrate it with their Sinulog Festival. In Aklan, the Akeanons celebrate it with their Ati-Atihan Festival, while in Iloilo, the Ilonggos celebrate it with the Dinagyang Festival. These festivals have been made in honor of Sr. Sto. Niño – the Child Jesus of Nazareth, Son of Biblical spouses Mary and Joseph. Some Biblical passages relating to the behavior of the Child Jesus may have some relevance for the children of today. I revisited my Jerusalem Bible which I had used to read, to scrutinize. From the Gospel of St. Luke chapter 2 verses 42-47, I read the following passages: “When he was twelve years old, they went up for the feast as usual. When they were on their way home after the feast, the boy Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem without his parents knowing it. They assumed he was in the caravan, and it was only after a day’s journey that they went for him among their relations and acquiantances. When they failed to find him they
went back to Jerusalem looking for him everywhere. “Three days later, they found him in the Temple, sitting among the doctors, listening to them, and asking them questions; and all those who heard him were astounded at his intelligence and his replies.” So our Sr. Sto. Niño was a wayward: he was expected to go home after the feast but he did not. Where did he go? To a holy place: the Temple. He experienced being lost – out of his way home for three days. But it happened for a purpose: to learn and gain knowledge from the doctors of his time, although without his parents’ knowledge or consent. He took his time independently for good, away from his parents, but to them, they “lost” him. Many children now want to go out of the way where their good parents expected them to go. Just like what happened to our Sr. Sto. Niño, many children now experience being lost. But unlike Him, they experience the state of being lost with their parents’ consent, encouragement or culpable negligence. Unlike our Sr. Sto. Niño, when they are lost, they cannot be found in the Temple, not in their church. Take for example the recent reports
January 26 - February 1, 2014
Penh. For countries that have not suffered from the Pol Pot regime, it was indeed a rewarding experience for Filipino, Korean, Malaysian, Thai and Indonesian journalists which i humbly belonged. What if we do it with our pedicabs which have now become synonymous to a poor man’s bread winnership? It’s more fun in a three-wheel ride! We know for a fact that this is one mode of transportation that is environmentfriendly which enables the government to implement the Clean Air Act effortlessly. The Philippines’ rainy and summer seasons made them become a transportation necessity especially among students and office workers. The smallness of our barangay roads and the Filipinos’ limited access to personal cars have complimented the demand. To give tourists a taste of the Ilonggo transport hospitality, the LGU’s concerned can always give
these pedicab drivers and operators cash assistance via cooperative initiatives by procuring new and presentable units bearing the same design and accessories. LGU’s can also require the drivers’ official uniform bearing tourism logos and slogans like “ I am Iloilo. proud to be Ilonggo “ or “ Byahe muna kesa lakwatsa “ . Standard pleasantries highlighting the Ilonggo punchlines and street languages will add fire to the fun. This way, we will be moulding productive citizens in the streets and even inspire their children to be proud of their fathers who bring in gross income of 250-300 pesos daily to the family. Given the right motivation, we shall be seeing “pro bono” manpower in our street beautification and peacekeeping. This too can become a breeding ground of ordinary street workers on road courtesy, and a monument of a street man’s perseverance to live a life.
that many children were engaged in cyber pornography, a number one crime in the Philippines now, a serious problem that must be stopped, according to the Philippine National Police. These children are definitely lost: they have no direction, not even on the way to become porn stars, especially in our conservative and largely catholic country that prohibit such stars. Sadly, parents of most of these children were also reported to have encouraged the trade because they were earning from it. Children need special protection of the government, of their families, their respective communities, as provided in the Convention on the Rights of the Child. This special protection cannot just be taken for granted. As seldom can we find children like our Sr. Sto. Niño who in his own was thirsty for wisdom, for good knowledge coming from the learned, the doctors, we seldom do find parents like the parents of our Sr. Sto. Niño who exerted their efforts to find him. It was with the persistent efforts of his parents that they found him and brought him back home. I think persistent efforts - of the government, of families, of communities – are essential so that children who are lost can be brought back home, to their proper, meaningful and
wholesome direction in life. In what direction then are we feasting? In what direction are we celebrating the Dinagyang festival? While we dance, drink and cheer in celebrating the festivals - the Dinagyang in Iloilo - and promote it to attract more tourists to our place, to help boost the economy in our locality, I hope we never lose sight of the sacred purpose of this festival which to me is to unite peoples in peace, joy and happiness, with all the cheerfulness one can have, exuding from the deepest part of one’s being, that something buried and lost in ourselves comes out, resurrects, finding its way and expresses itself in no uncertain but definite words summed up with profundity, and reaching the heavens as we shout it loud and clear: “Viva! Sr. Sto. Niño! Viva!” **** One Nation in Prayer. P-Noy led the nation praying for heavenly blessings to our country. He was joined by Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle and other religious leaders, government officials and representatives of various sectors. May Heaven hear their prayers. May heaven hear our prayers and spare us from natural calamities. May Sr. Sto. Niño help us in these trying times.# Send feedback to: arnoldcares@yahoo.com
Of Traffic Jams and Steel Parkings
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t is coincidental that the new year 2014 is the Year of the Horse, a symbolism of man’s earliest form of transportation, while 2014 for Iloilo City will be one big, congested traffic jam. For the past year, we have seen the worsening traffic situation of Iloilo City that even the designation of a traffic czar did not decongest. We will see worse than that this Year of the Horse. For someone who has lived with Metro Manila’s monstrous traffic jams for years, driving in the streets of Iloilo City is like a breath of fresh air. Rush hour for Iloilo City is just like the 10 PM regular traffic for Aurora Avenue in Cubao. Yet despite of this comparison, this writer can feel that the worse is yet to come for Iloilo City’s streets. The ingredients are already there, it will only grow exponentially.
Main streets the size of barangay roads, booming second hand car commerce, unprecedented parking, undisciplined drivers, trisikads and tricycles still entering the main streets, commuters who will not go out of their comfort zones (and old habits), pot holed and damaged roads and PUVs and trucks plying the same roads as the PUJs and private vehicles are just the main ingredients for the coming congestion that is brewing until it gets out of hand. Yes, our local government is successful in widening the roads in the city but basically not for the traffic problem but for vying for the APEC Summit, solving the traffic problem is just an afterthought and a byproduct of the effort. How many percent of these road widening and improvement projects cover the city roads? It is just less than ten percent and cannot catch up with the bludgeoning number of
vehicles commuting daily in the city. Yes, traffic jams exist only during rush hours and persists for a little more than three hours at the most but it will grow and will grow exponentially this 2014. With road maintenance funds inadequate to repair damaged roads, road widening and reclaiming projects not enough to cover the city roads and parking is not strategically situated and solved we are doomed to be congested. We will not fail to be at par with Metro Manila in no time at all. It is high time we invest in paid parking within the city to decongest our streets with vehicles which not only causes road choke points but also makes pedestrians step into the road and away from the curb, endangering people’s lives in the process. There are many old and unused buildings within the city that would be ideal for multi-level steel parking like those found in Makati City.
If one has roamed around Makati you will notice street parking is as limited as possible, confined to those included in the building’s perimeter and outside of the public sidewalk. In Iloilo City, we use the curb and sidewalks as parking spaces which is counterproductive in the over-all scheme of things. Also, the city engineers can require new buildings to be erected in the city to include parking spaces as mandatory in the construction. If we take all the vehicles off the curbs in Iloilo City, half of our traffic woes will be solved. We can then proceed to widening the streets to accommodate higher volumes of vehicles. Our city is a growing city; with business and tourism ready to peak in the near future. We need concrete (and steel) plans to ease the coming congestion if we are to vie again for our lost title of the Queen City of the South.
January 26 - February 1, 2014
METRO OPINION
Testimonials
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ately I have been deeply engrossed in relief and recovery efforts for the Typhoon Yolanda victims in Northern Iloilo, Capiz, and Negros Occidental that I was unable to write any article for this column. As the designated Goducate-Water Missions International (WMI) liaison officer, my primary task was to arrange the speedy installation of water purification systems in disaster-stricken areas. As of today, we have 10 Living Water Treatment Systems (LWTS) now delivering safe water in Iloilo, 4 in Capiz, and 3 in Negros Occidental. Each LWTS can process untreated water into safe drinking water at the rate of 3,000 liters per hour. The system has three big filters for clean water processing and a chlorinator that is able to neutralize any microbial presence in water. Let me share with you the testimonies from two LGU officials and 4 water users. “Although Typhoon Yolanda brought unprecedented miseries to the people of our town, we were honored and privileged to be the recipient of lots of donations and goodwill from local and foreign individuals and organizations. When the team from WMI first came to visit us together with the guest from InTouch Ministry, we were excited about the prospect of having safe water for our people at last. After the typhoon, the children were especially vulnerable to water-borne diseases. There were many reported
diarrhea cases because the dug wells that were the primary sources of our drinking water became contaminated from surface run-off. We felt helpless after the pronouncement from our municipal health officer that all our drinking water sources were unsafe. We do not have piped water supply system for our people nor good sewerage facilities for them. Recent surveys also showed that our town belongs to one of the most waterless areas in the Philippines. Yet, we have a stable source of water from a nearby well but since it is untreated, our residents are forced to buy very expensive purified water from commercial establishments. How to change the paradigm has been my dream since I assumed office in Bingawan. We feel that the LWTS from WMI is heaven-sent, an answer to our prayers. After the system was installed, we campaigned aggressively among our constituents concerning the availability of free safe water near the town hall. The response was quite overwhelming. People from as far as 5 kilometers away have lately been bringing their jeepneys, tricycles, motorcycles, and multi-cabs to get drinking water. Even the water dispensers in our government offices are now using LWTS-processed water. On January 22, we are gathering our municipal officials, barangay captains, school principals, and the civil society for a lecture on safe water, sanitation, and hygiene by WMI representatives. We hope and pray that WMI will allow us to use the LWTS on long-term basis so that
more people can benefit from it.” - Hon. Matt P. Palabrica, Mayor, Municipality of Bingawan, Province of Iloilo. “I like the water from the WMI system because it is not only crystal-clear but also chlorinated. This assures me and the entire members of our household that the water we drink is 100% safe. Several times in the morning, noontime, and afternoon, I get water for our family’s domestic needs. I have also told my neighbors and friends about the availability of safe water near the municipal building.” - Roger Carbonilla, 56 years, resident of Bingawan, Iloilo. “We consume about three 20-liter containers everyday and I find it convenient to get my supply for cooking, drinking, and washing dishes from the WMI system. During the installation, I was one of the curious onlookers. After it became operational I was an immediate recipient. Since then, I have been getting my water from the water missions system everyday because our house is only 200 meters away from it. Before my safe water availment, we would boil water from the well. Now, even my children are using the LWTS water in preparing the infant formula. One of my grandchildren had skin rashes but after regular skin washing with chlorinated water, the rashes had disappeared.” - Lilia Gallaza, 64 years old, resident of Bingawan, Iloilo. “Our town suffered a triple whammy last November 8, 2013. The strong winds damaged and destroyed about 3,000 houses; flood water forcibly moved the affected residents to designated evacuation centers, and; the existing water system
failed due to severed pipelines, thereby rendering the residents waterless for about three weeks. We are grateful to WMI for identifying and qualifying our town to be one of the early recipients of LWTS. The processed water is acceptable to the majority of water users. This is substantiated by our recent recorded water usage at 164,790 gallons as of January 13, 2013. There are still many challenges ahead on how to optimize the operation of the system. We are confident that our local leaders will soon be trained by WMI on how to operate, maintain, and secure the system.” - Ronald Guillermo, Private Secretary to the Mayor and Disaster Action Officer, Municipality of Cuartero, Province of Capiz. “The Water Missions team came at an opportune time when we were wondering how we can save our money to meet many basic needs. After Typhoon Yolanda, safe water at affordable price was seemingly elusive to us. Each 5-gallon water container was being priced at 40 from 20 pesos by unscrupulous water refilling stations and since water is a primal need, we were left with no choice but to purchase with a grain of salt. We were happy when UNICEF installed a bladder for our water need but the chlorine taste was very offensive so only few took water from the bladder. However, after sampling the water from LWTS, we observed that it was not only very clean but the chlorine content was highly acceptable. This resulted in lots of townsfolk coming everyday, including my relatives and neighbors, to obtain water from the taps.
The Saintly Patron Of Hiligaynon W
hat’s next after the 2014 Peter’s Prize contests conclude this January? Correction: Peter’s Prize for 2014 has just begun. Haha! Surely, we have finished the two categories for children’s stories, and children’s poetry, this January, but my Foundation plans to open more categories before the year is over. We awarded two prizes last year for love poetry, and the 500-words-or-less story, but I want to expand to at least five or six categories this year. I love Peter’s Prize! I see this as my real cultural and literary legacy. I always thought that if I provided the venue, the writers would come. And they did! I am just so happy how our little contest is enriching Hiligaynon literature by inspiring and collecting all these literary outputs. What’s the actual literary haul of the
contests this January? For children’s poetry, we received seven collections of seven poems each. That’s a total of 49 poems there. For children’s stories, we received nine collections of three stories each, for a total of 27 new Hiligaynon stories for children. Writers-wise, twelve authors participated, and four of them submitted in both the children’s stories and poetry categories. Of the twelve, four are new to the Peter’s Prize contests, and the eight others joined our contests last year. I take pride in the fact that we had quite a number of returning entrants. It only means that these writers believe in our cause, and in our credibility. Of course, I am also very happy for the fact that we have new participants because that only means that we are gaining ground and support. Now, if you are like me, who is intensely passionate about our Hiligaynon language and literature, you can see that this literary loot is totally priceless.
So you plan to create more contests this year? That is absolutely correct. The 2014 Peter’s Prize awards ceremony will be sometime in September, around our Foundation Day, but I hope to announce the winners of the children’s literature contests early in February because I take pride in our fast contest turn over: We give you 100 days to write and enter in the contest, and we make our judgment in two weeks’ time, maybe three weeks maximum. The February announcement should be fine, just in time for Valentine’s Day. Around that time, I will also officially announce and disclose the guidelines for a new category: The Saddest Love Story Ever Told. How did you come up with that category? Admit it. It’s a great idea, right? Everybody loves a love story. But because
I am the region’s erstwhile Prinsipe sang Ngoyngoy [Prince of Sob], I really want to see if Hiligaynon writers can out-write me in the genre. I know that I can write stories that can make people cry, but I’m really excited to see if there is anyone out there who can be my serious heir, if not outright competition. I’m still deciding on the word count requirement at this time, but it’s definitely going to be longer than our very short story contest last year, which had a limit of 500 words. However, it is still going to be shorter than the average magazine or anthology submission requirement of ten to 25 pages. I think that it should be 2,500 to 4,000 words, but let’s see what I decide on when I announce the final guidelines next month. My opinion is, if people can write wonderful stories of 20 or 25 pages in glorious Hiligaynon, they don’t need me, or my prize. They need a publisher! Haha. I am pretty clear in my mission right now: To inspire people to write, and to evaluate
Bringing “More Fun” to the World! A
s a religious celebration, it reinforces faith; as a cultural event, it defines heritage and history; as a community project, it manifests the importance of partnership; and as a social activity, it provides entertainment! The 2014 Iloilo Dinagyang Festival takes on another plane as window for the world to experience the best images of the region, a new frame of mind for festival presentations that focus more on production design and story line than just choreography and costume. The project is a showcase of the Ilonggo way of life. At the height of the celebration when spectators are amazed with the presentations, what comes to mind are the preparations made by each contingent prior to the spectacle. Six months before the event, recruitment of performers, and conceptualization of the repertoire have to be done and the indigenous materials have to be procured for the costumes, props, risers, and set design. The economic activity\of hiring of artists and addressing market demands for goods and services, once again give local residents an opportunity to do business. For this Year of the Wood Horse, it is not far to find a Trojan Horse or a War Horse in the tribe presentations considering how fertile the minds of the artists are; or the Red Horse or Petrang Kabayo for local color and humor.. Membership in the school-based
group is done as early as the opening of the School Year and used as a way of attracting drop-outs to return to school. The school’s participation serves as motivation for students to get involved in an activity perceived to be both fun and worthwhile which in a way helped in increasing the school’s retention rate. Fort San Pedro High School which won as champion for the last three years registered a drop-out rate of 16% in 2009 and 3.45% in 2012. Preparation of the barangay groups also start early. Barangay officials get the cooperation of the village residents as well as out-of-school youths. They usually involved the SK to reach out for recruits. The nightly rehearsals bring the barangay residents together, helping each other to mount a good presentation. Its an activity anticipated by residents to bring them closer to one another. It has become a bonding activity for them. Lately, however you would rarely see rehearsals on the streets. Tribes keep their presentation secret. They just come out in the open during blockings, a few days before the final showdown. Nowadays, the winning factor is now more on the production design, the storyline. Choreographers have been very precise with their dance movements, the arch of the arms, the height of the jump, turn of the head. Performers seem like machines in precision, every move is measured, synchronization and mastery are critical to the presentation. Dancers and tribe members who
have been joining for several years and have acquired the skills and craft from experience and exposure become choreographers, musical directors, and dance masters themselves for various festivals in other places here in the country and even abroad. Skills and expertise by home grown talents have been “exported” to other places because the festival has become a very good training ground for artists. Its religious significance has a great influence in developing desirable behaviors among organizers and participants especially in molding discipline, hardwork, teamwork, as well as strength of character. It also serves as venue and timeline for the launch, finals, and/or promotions of sports events, professional and scientific colloquia, and other activities. Book and project launch are timed during the festival to get optimum exposure. As a promotional medium, it has raised the level of public awareness for Iloilo City. Its travels have created goodwill via bringing “pieces of home” to Filipino expats abroad and linking with Filipino communities there for collaborative endeavors. In 2013, Dinagyang represented the country in the DOT’s “It’s More Fun” campaign in New York and Los Angeles. It participated in the Philippine Independence Day parades in Madison Avenue, New York on June 4; and in Temple Street, Los Angeles on June 8. The Filipino communities in Oxnard County, Ventura and New Jersey
organized pocket events. The economic impact of the event has been shared with the small entrepreneurs - sidewalk vendors, street hawkers, and kiosk operators who operated their business during the festivity where a lot of visitors come to the City for the festival. Restaurants – big and small, even food stall vendors enjoyed good business. Hotels were fully booked, even resorts and bed & breakfast services outside the city had full accommodation. The City Treasurer’s Report on the total revenue collected for the past three years show the following increase: total revenue in 2009 was 1.352B, in 2010, 1.357B, in 2011, 1.594B; in 2102, 1.801B; and in 2013, 1,807B. The festival likewise contributes to livelihood and job generation. It provides income opportunities to choreographers, trainors, costume designers and makers, and production designers and manufacturers. Food handlers, product sampling personnel, support staff of events group handling street parties, printers, advertising companies, caterers, and tailors are likewise given job opportunities and overtime pay during special events. More than the economic contribution, the festival strengthens spiritual and values formation of the participants. Students, out of school youth and barangay residents participating in the different tribes and performing groups learn about team
19 Whenever I look out from my office window and see a big crowd with everyone patiently waiting for their turn to fill up their containers with safe water from LWTS, I thank the Lord for our our WMI friends for their selfless humanitarian aid. This brings us new hope for a brighter future in spite of the devastating typhoon that we experienced.” - Rosa Bringuela, Municipal Civil Registrar, Cuartero, Capiz. “My family and I are among the repeat users of water from LWTS. From our point of view, the water tastes even better that the purified water coming from commercial refilling stations. Even if we have to pay about five pesos per 5-gallon container to the pedicab driver for delivery, we still have a lot of savings compared to the 40 pesos pick up price when we buy. Thanks to the people behind WMI for their kind-heartedness. May you be bountifully blest and continue to expand your presence especially in Panay and the whole Philippines in general.” - Wilma Fajarillo, casual municipal employee, Cuartero, Capiz. oOo Last January 17, Goducate and WMI representatives signed the Memorandum of Agreement that defines the strategic relationship between the two organizations. Not only will Goducate monitor the operations of the LWTS in Panay and Negros Occidental but it will also be responsible in transferring the LWTS to more needy communities after the disaster response period. In addition, the Goducatetrained community development workers will be deployed to areas with LWTS and help the community attain holistic and sustainable development. greatness of writers in their short works. And when I find them, to nurture these writers to become what they want to be. Aside from these contests, how else do you plan to help Hiligaynon writers? I’ve always helped writers with mentorship. I give writer’s advice to people who seek me out in interviews, lectures, and now, mostly online, with me being based in the United States. I have one regret not being in the Philippines as a writer: I am not directly involved in the literary and cultural dialogues and processes that happen in workshops and writers’ conferences. But, I deal. I make myself useful online. People have only to connect with me through The Peter Solis Nery Foundation page on Facebook to learn more about the writing craft and possibilities, especially in Hiligaynon. Of course, I am generous with advice and tips on how to win writing competitions. What can I say? I am becoming the patron saint, or, at least, the saintly patron, of Hiligaynon literature. work, discipline, hardwork, confidence, patience, creativity, self expression – everything entailed in producing a world class performance. The storylines of each performance and themes of the festival teaches them and the audience about important issues like millennium development goals and climate change. The devotion to Sr. Sto Nino is central to the festival and this has influenced prayer life of the participants knowing that they attribute their performances and achievements to the help of the festival’s patron. It is a major player in tourism awareness program showcasing the City’s attractions and getting historical backgrounds for authentic and factual representations in telling its stories; creating promotional materials such as brochures, flyers, and videos; documenting and capturing information and statistics for the industry. It is an economic driver for the development of skills and generation of jobs. It continually improves the quality of tourism products and services of the community by addressing the needs of the markets. It has become a benchmark for operative festival governance. It abides by the terms of reference set by the Festival’s tripartite and complies with government regulations in the disbursement of public funds. It does not only “bring more fun to the world” as stated in its 2014 tagline, but most importantly it has brought back hope to the Ilonggos who just recently lost their homes and sources of livelihood to typhoon Yolanda.#30
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Message
et me extend my warmest congratulations to the management and staff of ILOILO METROPOLITAN TIMES on its First Anniversary.
The Fourth Estate is a vital component of a democratic society. It does not only serve as a watchdog of the government but it also plays a role in bringing the government closer to the people. The Philippine Constitution recognizes the role of the mass media in nation building that is why it has enshrined the Freedom of the Press. Truly, the mass media could not perform their functions effectively in a curtailed environment. I salute ILOILO METROPOLITAN TIMES for keeping the flame of press freedom alive in this part of the country. I join you in celebrating your first year in the media industry and it is my wish that you will succeed as the region’s only business and tourism newspaper. I also urge the editorial staff to adhere to the tenets of responsible journalism and be instruments of social transformation. It is my wish that ILOILO METROPOLITAN TIMES will continue to be an active partner of the government in pursuing development goals for the people. More power! ARTHUR D. DEFENSOR, SR. Governor
Message
Congratulations to the men and women of the Iloilo Metropolitan Times for your publication’s First Year Anniversary! In only its first year in print, the Iloilo Metropolitan Times has already distinguished itself as one of the region’s best weekly paper. I look forward to reading more fascinating stories and articles from your esteemed publication.
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My warmest congratulations to the publisher, management, and staff of Iloilo Metropolitan Times on the celebration of your 1st Anniversary! The success of your publication as the region’s only business and tourism weekly paper is another testament to the booming investment potentials of our place. Your milestone is also fitting as the Ilonggo community celebrates successful achievements through its premier event – the Dinagyang Festival! Thus, I also warmly greet all visitors who experience and enjoy the grandest and most colorful annual religious and cultural extravaganza in the country today. Feel the climactic celebration of festivities that showcase the richness of heritage and culture as well as the unity of the Ilonggos as we honor and give thanks to Señor Santo Niño. Revel in the spectacle of vibrant sounds, colors, dances and parties as we celebrate the Ilonggos’ cultural excellence in a world-class event giving our people a sense of pride. Grow together with us and let’s bring more fun to the world! Viva Señor Santo Niño! Hala Bira! I am Iloilo Proud to be Ilonggo!
JED PATRICK E. MABILOG City Mayor
The business community extends its warmest greetings to the Iloilo Metropolitan Times on its 1st year anniversary! As Iloilo move towards achieving the vision the Ilonggos continuously work hard for, it is our hope that the Iloilo Metropolitan Times become a true partner of development; a platform to express the community’s hopes and dreams, and a credible source of information with a fresh take on the news and current events. Indeed, the reading public celebrates this milestone with you and we wish for your sustained success in providing this rare service to the Ilonggos. Congratulations and happy anniversary!!
Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Iloilo, Inc Warmest greetings and best wishes to the dynamic and creative men and women behind the Iloilo Metropolitan Times on its First Anniversary. Your paper has been an active ally of government and the private sector in promoting Iloilo as an Investment tourism destination . In behalf of the officers and members of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Iloilo, Inc our warmest felicitations and Mabuhay!
IMT RealityCheck BY MARY PAULINE BALMES & KHARIZA JOY SOFIA We were strangers, starting out on the journey. Never dreaming what we’d have to go through. Like a seed thrown on a fertile land, the foundation of Iloilo Metropolitan Times sprouted from the playful minds of three veteran radio practitioners who wanted to reap abundance by venturing the world of print media. Little did they know that this out-of-nowhere thought will blossom into a hazy reality. The once milky idea began to be realized when a group of individuals fresh-from-the-oven accepted the challenge to man this newborn organization. And a roller coaster ride was about to begin. IMT started small- literally small. Imagine having to squeeze ourselves in a house, which also served as our office, doing late night paper works just to beat deadlines. There were times when we had to pretend eating in a restaurant only to order a cup of coffee and plug our laptops to finish editing our lay-outs. There were times when we had to allot more time in printing than in preparing news because we had to adjust the schedule of the printing press because we don’t have our own. There were times when we had to repeatedly introduce ourselves to people only to receive a buffering response from them because the paper is alien to them. As a budding organization, we also struggled to be recognized. We’ve had our fair share of rejection. We’ve gone through moments wherein people doubted our intentions and underestimated our capacity as member of the fourth estate. But these never stopped us.
The Ed and the social media editor Reymar Latoza The Editor-in-Chief Mary Pauline Balmes, then One of the countless story and sales conferences sales head Jamie Nehemiah Balisalisa and now left after 4 months of the job without errors (as much as tons of them) and she is a certified Sales Department Head Crystale May de Guia in operation due to some possible), and he would be glad to businesswoman at present. When it the house-office of the GM. irreconcilable differences. research the whole thing first to make comes to work, she doesn’t like pressure But here we are, unafraid of the Ms. Ed is Mary Pauline Balmes; sure. Minsan lang yan magsalita at but she can deliver her work properly future, at the beginning with you. a Bachelor in Broadcasting graduate magcritic pero sigurado tatamaan ka o if she wants too. Her charm has been These are the perfect words to from West Visayas State University. She yung talagang mahihit nya yung point. proven effective in swooning different describe how the people making up was working as Information Officer I at P.S. he is a frustrated singer, hehe. kinds of clients. P.S. she sells siopao the Iloilo Metropolitan Times started. the Department of Environment and Ruggedly Handsome is Clark and siomai. The original set of these brave and Natural Resources- Regional Office Antiquiera; a Bachelor of Science in Hulk girl is Khariza Joy Sofia; a intellectual bunch were “fresh from the 6 before entering the organization. Information Technology graduate from Bachelor in Broadcasting graduate from oven” when the organization began, While working for DENR, she is also a Southern Iloilo Polytechnic College West Visayas State University. She is although some have had a taste of part-time anchor for DYRI Radyo Mo – WVCST Miagao. He is a total writing for lexor online writing services the media world. The original casts Nationwide (RMN) Iloilo’s “Youth for achiever when it comes to webpage before joining the organization. She is were Ms. Ed, the Man who cannot be RMN” every Sunday. She is a family- designs. His main work was to do the a frustrated singer, DJ, model and the moved, Mrs. Steve Jobs, the negotiator oriented kind of person and being the website for the organization but as his like (just kidding). She tried to diet for and Hulk Girl. After two weeks, the six only child of her parents, she always became seven as Ruggedly Handsome sees to it that her time is well-managed entered the scene. Then the six became between her work and her family. 12 but unfortunately, only the original Her favorite topic is about life, the bunch stayed longer. essence of life, traveling and food, of After three months of operation, course! She’s a little bit sensitive on the 7 members of the league were the side but when it comes to work, joined by Mestiza and on its fourth she is totally in control, focused and month, were joined by Ms. Buenavista, efficient. Walang ibang bukambibig Ms. Fresh from college and Ms. kundi ang makapagtravel sa whole SFL. The negotiator, who was one world. P.S., she is a frustrated beauty of the bloodline of the organization pageant contestant, hehe. The “man who can’t be moved” is Reymar Latoza; a Bachelor in Broadcasting g r a d u a t e from West IMT Family on Christmas Day Visayas State name bears it, he became superman a week but end up frustrated. She’s also University. He and did the layout design as well. He Ms. Do-all-the-work because she does was a volunteer can live the whole day without talking all the things from letters, contracts, reporter/anchor/ (seriously), he hates distractions when proposal to collections, purchases and writer at DYRI working, he’s hopelessly romantic (just accounting. She was named Hulk Radyo Mo a thought), and he loves doing things Girl because she becomes a monster N a t i o n w i d e on his own. When it comes to work, he when she gets hungry, (seriously). Iloilo before can absolutely deliver what he is asked Minsan lang yan pag nagutom, pero entering the to and he is very passionate about nakakamatay, (hahaha!) o r g a n i z a t i o n . his jobs. Minsan lang yan magsalita Mestiza is Montesa GriñoHe is silent, pero alam mong alam na alam nya Caoyonan; a veteran in the print media usually has his yung sinasabi nya. P.S. He is single so industry. She worked for two different own world, beware, haha! newspapers already and a member of partly OCD Mrs. Steve Jobs is Crystale May the press corps. She’s happily married (really), doesn’t de Guia; a Bachelor in Broadcasting with two beautiful girls. As the charge his phone graduate of West Visayas State manang of the group in the industry, (for crying out University. She had different jobs she is the consultant on some of the loud) and likes including redemption teller on a organization’s plans and strategies. to get the job done alone. He loves idealistic ideas, romantic c o m e d y movies, and documentaries. He was given the name the man who can’t be moved because you will never see him worry, or stressed, or angry. Seriously, we don’t know how he survived being alone for too long, but fortunately he The ladies of IMT. did. When it pawnshop before she entered the Though she’s not always in the office, comes to work, group. She is crazy, jolly, single in a she executes her work very well. She he’s partly relationship, and a great talker. She sends 2 – 3 news a day without fail. p e r f e c t i o n i s t , is addicted to diet schemes since her She is very kikay and loves to groom you know, jeans couldn’t fit her anymore, she’s her hair once in a while. Minsan lang someone who trying to be a self-learned doctor, she’s yan pumunta ng office pero pag pumunta likes to do a shoes and pussycat hoarder (she has may dala pang pagkain.
Sinner with a future is Jose Elmer Cajilig; a priest with a wife and 5 children. He is the circulation man of the organization, while working for another local newspaper. His life has already been featured on Anthony Taberna’s “Tapatan with Ka Tunying” show on ABS-CBN. Minsan lang yan uminom pero pag nasobrahan, paulitulit lang yung sinasabi… Peace! Ms. SFL (Single for Life) is Mary Jane Ubay; she was a teacher and a customer service representative before
she entered the organization. She loves her brown leggings, makes her own fashion statement, has her own world sometimes and is the queen of ex-deals. She’s one of the senior members of the group but she can absolutely blend with everyone. She is absolutely health conscious (which I think she gets from her uncle), she likes smoothies and vegetables. She needs to do more on delivering her work but hey! She does things on her own way. The negotiator was Jamie
Nehemiah Balisalisa, Ms. Buenavista was Jonnavil Tentativa while Ms. Freshfrom-college was Michelle Velasco. Life is a world I wanna keep going, love is a river I wanna keep flowing… People come and go. No matter how strong the bond that tied them, in the end, one must let go. From 11 strong-willed individuals that pioneered the organization, only 8 remained standing. Nevertheless, friendships were not broken, only bended. The organization moved
Kagat sa Labi
IMT answers Yolanda
The staff having a light moment with one of the partners.
The Living Saint
The team with the partners.
Hon.Manny Gallar
Board Member 3rd District Province of Iloilo
on with 8 men leading their own departments. Struggles were always part of business. There are ups, there are downs. There are times when patience, will and mental capacity were put into test. Some other time, questions filled the mind. But since the patience, will and mental ability of this bunch of individuals were wider and longer, they survived one hell of a year. Their passion and love for their work pushed them to their limits. Little by little,
When the news get tough. Montesa Griño-Caoyonan IMT Senior Writer
Island bonding with IMT Family
Packing the goods for Yolanda victims
we are making names of our own while learning the nitty-gritty of the business. We are fighting a good fight and that is the main reason we are still here. Now, as another year is about to begin for this not-so neophyte organization anymore, Iloilo Metropolitan Times envisions a richer and wider scope of developmental news and critical views. It aims to provide fast and accurate news to the Ilonggos at the exact time the incident happens. IMT seeks to put awareness on the bright side of the world. Crimes and feuds will always be part of our lives but on the lighter note, we also need to know things about the business world. Business sector is vital in our daily lives, because, though we don’t know it enough, everything that surrounds us is related to it. We don’t compare ourselves to other newspapers because we don’t cater news that they do. We help promote tourism attractions, festivals and places through our feature stories and advertisements. We create big names for small entrepreneurs that we present. We create fuzz from ordinary stories of ordinary men. We are establishing a credible and reliable name in the steep competition of the business world. Through our Facebook page and Facebook account, Iloilo Metropolitan Times and Imt Newsbreak, we were able to reach the world and feed them with updates on the aftermath of typhoon Yolanda. Iloilo Metropolitan Times will continue to deliver news that promotes Iloilo and the Ilonggos not only to our fellow Filipinos but to the world. We feel that it is our duty to bridge the gap between Ilonggos all over the world. Indeed, the law of harvest is to reap more than you sow. We sow patience, and we reap a appreciation. We sow determination, we reap strength amidst adversity. We sow trust and we reap loyalty. And in this new chapter, the cycle begins again. IMT
METRO SULTADA
January 26 - February 1, 2014
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COCKFIGHTING EXCITEMENT AT THE CANDELARIA 7 COCK DERBY 2014 EDITION BY LARRY LOCARA Cockfighters and cockfight aficionados will again excitedly flock to Iloilo City for the annual Candelaria 7 Cock Derby, 2014 edition which unfolds on January 29 and culminates on February 2, the annual patronal fiesta of Jaro. The guaranteed prize of P5 million is back to offer more excitement for participants who even with a “win as much format” are eager to participate. Guaranteed prize or none, the Candelaria derby had always been a badge of honor among the toughest cockfighters here and abroad. The same format for schedules and prizes will prevail. At least 120 participants are expected this year with more than 20 of them from other parts of the globe, mostly from the United States of America. The Candelaria derby had gained worldwide renown as one of the toughest competitions in cockfighting. Winning a Candelaria is one of the most coveted distinctions among game fowl breeders worldwide. Some however, like Negrense breeders Johnny Jalandoni and Nene Abello have done it several times already, a feat that had made many of their peers green with envy. The Pot Money needed to join the event is P50,000.00 where the total prize is P5million and broken down to Champion, then First to Third Combo where one can share in
the winnings of the pool by winning straight 5 wins like Fight No. 1-5, 2-6, 3-7 and the Insurance. The event follows a 2-2-3 format where a participant chooses when he will join: Set A or Set B then if at Set A, he will fight 2 cocks each on the first and second days for his elimination or inclusion in the finals event of 3 cocks. If at Set B, he will fight on the 3rd and 4th days. All those who qualified for the finals or still have the money to fight will join the other qualifiers on the final day which is on the feast day of the Candelaria. One other requirement in the event is the minimum bet of P22,000 for the first 4 Cocks. Being a tough event, and the amount invested, the participants prepare for years to join. The majority field at least 3 years old cocks that had been ranged in their farms for most of the year and only brought into the conditioning pool may be 45 days before the event. The more audacious ones try their luck with younger cocks, hoping that their genetics and training/conditioning methods will prevail over their much older opponents. Classic examples are the bravado of American cockers who in the past belittled the capacity of locally bred roosters as well as the conditioning prowess of local handlers. From past to present, not many foreigners prevailed to take
Boy Mirasol checking bookings for accuracy
Boy Mirasol and Ed managing the booking of cock houses
View of the pit as cocks are being released home the Candelaria Cup. Now even the foreigners adopt the techniques of local participants who condition roosters locally so that they can adopt well to the local climate and perform with much less stress. As always, the management of the Iloilo Coliseum has prepared for this annual grand event. Weeks prior, the cock houses are cleaned and sanitized since all the cockers are so sensitive about the safety and health of their birds. With so much money bet on the cocks, they can’t afford to make a single mistake. Also participants reserve in advance, the cock houses of their choice. Late comers have no choice but to make do with what remained unreserved. Others who come from afar even finish their conditioning right at their cock houses and use the grassy spaces to pasture or cord their cocks. Through the years, the Iloilo Coliseum has built its reputation as one of the premier cockfighting destinations south of Manila. The structure had been built for permanence and stability that its Manager, Mr. Chito Tinsay once said during an intensity 5.3 earthquake said on the microphone that the coliseum can withstand an intensity 8 quake. Its parking space can accommodate a large number of cars and during the Candelaria, an open space is also made available by its owner to take in more cars for a modest fee. Like in the previous years, coliseum employees say that this year’s edition is expected to be as if not more exciting with the participants from
Atty Marbhen Lumbo and Mr Calvin Randall, an american breeder posing with a bevy of beauties of Supremo, a feed product for gamefowls which exhibited during the event
other parts of the Philippines and abroad already reserving their cock houses. These as the employees said are the hottest names in the national scene with several of them consistent winners in big events. For purposes of security, names will not be mentioned except those earlier written about. Also expect the array of world class roosters being brought to fight. Most if not all are already winners and had been ranged or aged on the farms purposely for this event. Some birds have already won in the co;iseum in the previous year too and the owners hope to duplicate their feat this year. A case in point is the famed “Poster Boy” of Mr. Eddie Boy Ledesma who won two times in the coliseum in the mid-2000s. Many of the participants join because they want to prove their breeds or genetics as world class, proof of which is to win against the best breeders also joining the event. This is not only to satisfy one’s ego but also more on the business side. Once proving one’s superiority, claiming also the bragging rights, the Champion’s game fowls will now be in demand and often at a high price too. Nene Abello’s famed Sweater breed which comes mostly from his American friend Carol Nesmith, has become a hot selling item which is a money maker for the breeder whose main line is sugarcane farming. Others like Congressman Patrick Antonio join where he banners the various products sold by his company. Others join to just experience and hope to snatch the prize from the famous competitors. There are friends who pool together their resources and roosters so that they can come up with enough money and pool of roosters where they can select the best contenders. Despite their limited pool and minimum betting, many championships of the previous years were taken by these groups. A case in point is that of now Antique
Mayor Jojo Fornier whose team of Antiquenos got the solo prize in the mid 2000s. The art and science of breeding, conditioning and pointing also comes into play at the Candelaria. Breeders like the famous Nato Lacson show their beautiful birds. Mr. Lacson is said to be picky and goes only for beautiful and well proportioned birds. So does the perennial winners Johnny Jalandoni and Elwin Javelosa. Most of them show uniform looking birds that is a trademark of a true breeders. Local Ilonggo breeders like the Palmares clan should be visible too. Mayor Jesry and brother Ricoy who is the founding leader of the now prominent NFGB or the National Federation of Game fowl Breeders should be able to come up with a show. So will their cousins fred and Noe who are also winners in previous years. Known cockfighting personalities like Mr. Lance de la Torre had already reserved his cockhouse. His partner Loy Seiza who is a prominent USbased businessman is expected to jet in anytime to enjoy his yearly cockfighting sojourn. Like in the previous years, this tandem will surely be pitted against the other tough contenders not only for the excitement but also to even big time bets. It is customary for the management to match the known tough entries against each other because of the bets placed. In the Candelaria, there is a saying that it’s not over until it’s over. By sheer toughness, you cannot really say that you have won until the referee has raised your rooster in victory. Even a downed rooster may show some surprises by getting in a killing blow despite being mortally wounded. And with the Coliseum’s tough and enduring manager, Mr. Chito Tinsay, one can only say that the Candelaria is one cockfighting event worth attending and enjoying.
Mr. Luis Chito Tinsay, actively managing the event from day 1 to day 5
Mr F.A. Ong, aka The Archangel in the popular forum: sabong.net. ph, showing a set of “Ka Larry’s Pointing Capsules”, which he hopes to distribute in Metro Manila.
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Moleta
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METRO TOURISM
Kasadyahan:
January 26 - February 1, 2014
Celebrating Cultural Diversity in Western Visayas
BY BOMBETTE G. MARIN Twelve (12) participating tribes from different provinces and cities in the region showcased their local festivals in this year Kasadyahan Festival. The four assigned judging areas in carousel type at the Freedom Grandstand, Maria Clara Street, Quezon-Ledesma Streets and at the Provincial Capitol highlighted the following tribes: (1) Tribu Banigan of the municipality of Libertad, Province of Antique, (2) Saad Festival of the municipality of Leganes, Iloilo, (3) Manggahan Festival of Guimaras Province, (4) Tribu Hugyaw Kansilay of Silay City, Negros Occidental, (5) Tribu Pan-ay of Fort San Pedro National High School, Iloilo City, (6) Sinadya Sa Halaran of Roxas City, Capiz, (7) Tribu Hugyaw of St. Therese MTC-Colleges, Iloilo City, (8) Tribu Lacsonian of John B. Lacson Maritime University, Iloilo City, (9) Kalibo Sto. Nino Ai-Atihan Festival of the Province of Aklan, (10) Bacolod Masscara Festival of Bacolod City, (11) Tribu Kaing of the municipality of Leon, Iloilo and (12) Tribu Busilak-San Carlos Pinta Flores
Festival of Negros Occidental. The city of Iloilo brings threads of regional culture together in one place during the annual Kasadyahan Festival, held every 4th Saturday of January. It is also a spectacular festival packed with a variety of dance presentations that draws visitors from all over the world. This festival celebrates the indigenous culture of Western Visayas with handicrafts and performers. Western Visayas is the festival region of the country. Throughout the whole region, colorful and vibrant festivals range through musical, religious, cultural and harvest to name just a few. These festivals have been successful in attracting domestic and foreign visitors in great numbers, and recently have encouraged the Regional Office of the Department of Tourism to preserve and prosper these regional festivals. The celebration of these festivals will surely improve the overall image of the Western Visayas and show the acceptance of cultural diversity. It will keep alive the older traditions and provide entertainment to the people.
With colorful parades combining traditional music and dance, Kasadyahan Festival immerses spectators in local culture in a way no museum can. The sound of folk music and the beat of the drums usher everyone to dance in the streets. And every year brings a new cultural group, from local universities to neighboring provincial festivals. Music, parades, dressing up, beauty contests, dancing in the streets, drinking, feasting, fire crackers Filipinos love a good party and there is nothing like a festival to generate the right mood. For Filipinos, festivals are great opportunities to join in and have fun. Towns and cities all have their own festival days, usually a local saint’s day, an important historical event or highlighting the main product or industry in the area. Festivals hold a favored place in the Filipino culture. Some are celebrated throughout the country. Others are regional, municipal or city specific.
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January 26 - February 1, 2014
METRO SPORTS
IBL
Iloilo Basketball Leauge
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Mayor’s Cup 2014 kicks off February BY REYMAR LATOZA Exciting hard-court actions never stop. Organized by Iloilo Basketball League (IBL) and Iloilo City Government through the Iloilo City Sports Council, the Mayor Jed Patrick E. Mabilog Basketball Cup is set to kick-off next month. IBL president Alfonso Lagman Sr. said the month-long tournament will have four categories, ’40-up, ‘18-below’, ‘open category’ and ‘interagency’.
“This year’s tournament will be more exciting because we decided to divide the participating teams into four categories for equal match-ups” Lagman said. He added the date and place have yet to be finalized. The tournament aims to discover potential basketball players in the city. Last year, eight local teams participated in the tournament. IBL has been holding several basketball events in the city and the province of Iloilo. IMT
Be Afraid of Tiger
Sportive Dinagyang 2014 BY REYMAR LATOZA
The scope of Tiger Woods’ dominance at Torrey Pines over the past 15 years, like most of the statistical mountain he’s accrued so far, likely will not be fully appreciated until his career reaches its twilight. In 13 starts at what is now known as the Farmers Insurance Open, Woods has seven victories -- and three rounds over par. Six previous times, Tiger has opened his PGA Tour season at this event. He won five
of those, including last year, and his combined score to par in those events is 75 under. Woods has won eight times at Torrey Pines -- seven at this event and the 2008 U.S. Open, his last major championship. Tiger has also done this at Bay Hill and Firestone. Should Woods win this week, he would become the first player in PGA Tour history to win at the same course nine times.
Apart from arts and culture, this year’s Dinagyang Festival also promotes physical fitness through several sports activities. The clash of Powerhouse teams, Ateneo de Manila’s Blue Eagles and San Beda University’s Red Lions set a sportive mood in Iloilo City. “Dinagyang Classico: The Epic Battle”, a charity game, held at the University of San Agustin gymnasium astounded sports enthusiasts last January 17. Four-peat NCAA champion San Beda nipped former UAAP champion Ateneo, 106-104. On the other hand, a golf tournament dubbed as ‘Dinagayang Bamboo Tee Golf Tournament’ was held at Iloilo Golf and Country Club, Inc., Sta. Barbara, Iloilo. On January 19, almost one thousand runners joined the fun run
at SM City. The city also hosted the first triathlon in Western Visayas. The said sports event which was held at Anhawan Beach Resort in the town of Oton, Iloilo is the first local triathlon event to be sponsored by the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC). The triathlon includes a 1.5 kilometer swim, 40-kilometer bike race and 10kilometer run. Other sports activities in the 2014 Dinagyang were airsoft gun competition, taekwondo, swimming at the Iloilo sports complex, arnis and beach volleyball. According to Sports committee chairman Jojo Castro, the Iloilo City Government aims to be one of the major sports destinations in the country. He said Dinagyang can help
promote to make Iloilo City as the next sports destination. Iloilo City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog said they are looking for more investors to help develop sports venues in Iloilo City. Meanwhile, the city government is preparing for the Asian Taekwondo competition in August.IMT
Another black beauty wins Miss Iloilo Dinagyang 2014
Miss Iloilo Dinagyang 2014 Michelle Marie Monte (Middle) with Miss Iloilo Dinagyang 2014 1st Runner Up Shireen Shahmardani (Right) and Miss Iloilo Dinagyang 2nd Runner Up Angelith Joyce Libardo (Left). Photo by Reymar Latoza/IMT BY REYMAR LATOZA through, have faith, persevere because 2010 Miss Universe fourth A 22- year-old dance teacher was everything is possible with the help runner-up Venus Raj, 2005 crowned Miss Iloilo Dinagyang 2014. of God and let us not forget what Miss International Precious Lara Michelle Marie Monte bested 9 Dinagyang is all about because it our Quigaman, and model/actor Marco other candidates in the said pageant devotion to Sr. Sto. Niño who is the Alcaraz completed the set of judges in held at San Agustin Gymnasium, symbol of hope,faith and unity of the the said pageant. January 22, 2014. Ilonggos. Viva Sr. Sto. Niño! Viva In the previous report of IMT, “It gives me great pride and honor iloilo!,” she said. Alta Moda owner and designer Alex to be able to carry the title of Miss The 2011 Bb. Pintados and Miss Soncio stated that the selection for Iloilo Dinagyang 2014 because not so Iloilo City was proclaimed by Iloilo the candidate in Aliwan will be based many get the chance to be a part of this City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog as the on the assessment and judgment of prestigious event and represent Iloilo as new Miss Iloilo Dinagyang 2014 right Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog and City ambassadress of beauty and goodwill,” after the announcement of winners. Tourism Officer Ben Jimenea. Monte told Iloilo Metropolitan Times On the other hand, Shireen Soncio refused to elaborate The political science graduate Shahmardani was named first runner- more on the details after the also garnered several minor awards up and was also named Best in misunderstanding issue between him including Best in Evening Gown and Interview, Best in Swimwear, Best in and the 2013 Miss Iloilo Dinagyang Best in Production Number. Casual wear, and Miss Congeniality. and Aliwan First Runner -Up Victoria “It’s never too late to chase Angelith Joyce Libardo was Oke of Central University of the Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog proclaims Michelle Marie Monte as Miss your dreams. Never give up, push second runner-up. Philippines (CPU).IMT Iloilo Dinagyang 2014. Photo by Reymar Latoza /IMT
AETAS OF PANAY AND DINAGYANG
BY REYMAR LATOZA
The celebration of Dinagyang Festival every 4th Sunday of January depicts the culture and tradition of the earliest inhabitants of the country - Aetas or ‘Ati’. The brisk bustling dance of ‘Ati’ dancers in Dinagyang Festival accompanied with drum beats and other musical instruments came from the Aetas traditional way of showing honor and respect to their gods by way of dance and chants. Aetas are among the indigenous groups in the country hurdling to embrace the changes in the present generation. “Maskin nagmoderno na ang panahon, kami nga mga ati importante sa guihapon ang amon kultura, isa ini sa amon mga manggad nga dapat protektahan,” he said (Despite the changes brought by the advancement of technologies, we still value our culture because it is important for us. We consider our culture as one of our treasures that we should protect) “ Kami nagagamit man sang cellphone , kag ginatudlo sa mga kaupdanan namun ang iban paguid nga mga bag-o nga gamit, pero indi buot silingon nagalain na kami…sandig
man kami sa guihapon sa amon kultura…..pero may mga katigulangan guid sa amon nga wala guid gatandog sang mga bag-o nga teknolohiya kag mga gamit,” he added. (We are also using mobile phones and we are teaching other members of our community how to use other modern devices. But it does not mean that we are departing from who we are, we still value our culture. However, most of our elders are totally closed for any changes and are not willing to learn) Enoch Valencia, 64, is pure ‘Ati’. He is a Tribal Affairs Assistant II at the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP). He is among the Aetas who proved that education is for all no matter where we come from and who we are. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Architectural Design at Iloilo Science and Technology University (ISAT-U).
“Ako proud ko ya sa akon maitom nga panit, kulot nga buhok kag pati man ang amon lenguaje” Valencia said. (I’m proud of my curly hair , black skin and our language as well) He is currently working as an adviser of the three existing ‘Ati’ communities in the Barangays of Tamiros, Badiangan, and Mustro in Anilao, Iloilo. As of the present, there are 340 individuals and 96, 000 Ati families in the area. They get their food through planting of crops such as vegetables, banana, corn and sweet potato. Some are making charcoal, hunting, working as laborers and house help. “May iban man nga nagpang-ad-ad sang palay, tiponon kag ibaligya,” he said. (Others are collecting rice grains left in the farm and sell them.) Vallencia wants to help his fellow ‘Atis’ to acquire education by sending them to school and eventually land them with a job. In terms of acceptance, the number of their communities who got married to lowlanders is increasing. When asked of his opinion about the celebration of Dinagyang festival, Valencia said “ Para sa akon, kag sa mga kaupdanan man namun, ginakasubo guid namun kay daw ginagamit lang ang amon kultura para makakwarta…negosyo kag kami nga mga matuod-
tuod nga ati wala man ginahatagan sang importansya.” ( We are sad because the event is just using our culture to earn…business and real ‘Ati’ are not given importance during the celebration) According to National Commission for Culture and Arts, the Atis are mostly found in Western and Central Visayas. Among the provinces in Panay Island, and the biggest group is in Iloilo. There are also Ati populations in the islands of Guimaras and Negros (comprising Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental). Few Atis still speak their traditional language, as it has been replaced by Kinary-a, which is spoken in Antique and some parts of Iloilo. THE DINAGYANG FESTIVAL The story of ten Bornean Datus or tribe leaders, their settlement in Panay Island and the christening of many locals were among the most significant events in the history of Iloilo that have been passed down for today’s generation through Dinagyang Festival. These historical pieces are integrated in every performance of participating tribes in the said festivity. It all started during the 13th century when a thousand followers headed by their datus reached the Siwaragan River in San Joaquin, Iloilo after they escaped from the cruelty of Sultan Makatunaw. In Sinugbuhan, Datu Paiburong, one of the datus, was given a territory in exchange of gold. The religious elements was added, when the festival became part of the activities of Catholic Church. In 1968, Dinagyang became a religious activity after the image of Sr. Sto. Nino from from Cebu arrived in Iloilo. It was a gift to the parish priest of San Jose Church in Iloilo City. The Philippines was colonized by Spain for more than 300 years. According to history, ‘Hari Humabon’s wife, Hara Humamai of Cebu became the first to be baptized under the name of “Juana”, in memory of Queen Juana of Castille, mother of King Carlos V, who was then the king of Spain. Hari Humabon was christened “Carlos” in memory of the Spanish King, father of King Philip II, where the name Philippines came from. Dinagyang is an adaptation of Ati-atihan. It has actually no traditional basis. But in all its glory, it is an artistic adaptation of the people’s beliefs, writings, practices, that project emotions and affect human sensibilities in motion and in sound. It therefore cannot be said that it has no relations with the arts. It is also an expression of the Ilonggos predilection for excellence. (Jimena, 2007) - IMT
Photos by Jonathan Lim