ILOILO
the first business newspaper in metro iloilo
METROPOLITAN VOL. I ISSUE NO. 42
TIMES
developmental news | critical views www.iloilometropolitantimes.com
November 17 -23, 2013 Php 12.00
Psalm 55:22 Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall. HISTORICAL EXCHANGE RATE Weekly MIDPOINT Rates - Nov 8 - 14, 2013
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43.2000 Nov 8, 2013
43.2245
Nov 10, 2013
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Nov 14, 2013
DTI PRICE MONITORING Prime Commodities (25 Oct 2013) Prime Commodities (25 Oct 2013)
BACK TO ZERO BY MONTESA GRIÑO-CAOYONAN & MARY PAULINE BALMES
Not knowing where to start is perhaps the most difficult question to answer now. The victims of Typhoon Yolanda in the province of Iloilo are in a blank future. The trail of damages and destructions of the typhoon had left them empty-handed. They need to reconstruct their homes, restore their livelihoods, and recover whatever that have been lost. They are to rebuild their lives all over again. In a recent report, economists estimate as much as $15 billion or about P650 billion worth of damages brought about by the super typhoon, the most destructive and most costly catastrophe written in the history of the Philippines. The report from Bloomberg using a Kinetic Analysis Corp. cited Charles Watson, director of research and development at US disaster ballpark figure of 5% loss of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). Economist and Albay Gov. Joey Salceda also supported this idea when he said the destruction Yolanda brought to Visayas and other affected areas will strike Philippine economy on the 4th quarter GDP and may extend its effect in 2014. Report from Rappler said he also based his analysis on Bloomberg. On the latest report of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and
Management Council (NDRRMC) as November 15, 2013 (6:00am), cost of damage has reached a total of P4,060,044,079.13 worth of damages (P362,834,761.13 to infrastructure and P3,697,209,318.00 to agriculture). A total of 71,733 hectares of agricultural land planted with rice (67,095 has),corn (2,384 has) and high value crops (2,254 has) were affected in Regions IV-B, V, VI, VII, VIII, and CARAGA (42,137 has with no chance of recovery and 29,596 has with chance of recovery) and the estimated production loss was P2,321,091,763.00 or 138,280 metric tons. Rice was the hardest hit with Region VIII ranking no. 1 (38,441 has) followed by Region V (17,385 has). Rice losses amounted to P2,221,133,529; corn P48,512,572; and high value crops P51,445,662. On the other hand, livestock, fisheries,
irrigation facilities and infrastructure were also damaged amounting to P1,376,117,555. The estimated cost of damages to agriculture has amounted to P3,697,209,318. Number of casualties are still increasing: 2,360 dead; 3,853 injured; 77 missing. Damaged houses are also escalating with a latest record 253,049 houses (136,247 totally / 117,802 partially). Data were gathered from 8,819 barangays in 43 provinces, 520 municipalities, and 54 cities of Regions IV-A, IV-B, V, VI, VII, VIII, X, XI and CARAGA as identified affected areas.
wanted to adapt the waste to energy practice of Korea where their garbage has been converted into power energy. Mabilog stressed the said practice is very applicable to Iloilo City since the city can produce more garbage a day or equivalent to 170 metric tons of garbage everyday. The mayor added he already referred this to the city’s technical group which is composed of Solid Waste Management Board to study and review the project. Mabilog said the city government will look for a private investor to invest on this project under the Private Public Partnership (PPP). If materialized, the mayor also said the project could be place at the one-hectare available lot in Calajunan dumpsite in Brgy. Calajunan, Mandurriao district here.
The three-hectare Calajunan dumpsite is now on its transition stage. Solid Waste Management chief Emmaculate Juntarciego said more than half of the total dumping site area is now closed to give way on its development project. The end portion of the 23-hectare Calajunan dumpsite is being used as the new dumping site for the almost 170 metric tons of collected garbage in the city everyday. Presently, the Calajunan is now implementing its (Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) to convert biodegradable materials into compost. The MRF has also its drying area. Juntaciego said the present practice in Calajunan does not totally address the garbage collection problem in the city but it helps a lot. IMT
Local Impact In Western Visayas, the National Economic and Development Authority 6 (NEDA-6) confirmed that the devastation brought by super typhoon Yolanda in some affected provinces in Western Back to zero /p5
Cable cars between Iloilo, Guimaras eyed
BY MONTESA GRIÑO-CAOYONAN
Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog is eyeing to put up cable cars between Iloilo and Guimaras Island as part of the plan to gain more tourist arrivals in Iloilo City. This initiative was taken by the mayor during his recent business trip to Korea where their cable cars have been part of Korean tourist attractions. Cable cars are rail vehicles that are propulsed by a cable (rope) and can detach themselves from the cable. Mabilog said he has been inviting investors from Korea to visit Iloilo City and have their feasibility study on how it could be marketed here. “It is always my dream to have these cable cars and having it would be a big boast to our tourism industry”, he said. Meanwhile, the city mayor is also
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Yolanda damages 35 Iloilo’s schools
The aftermath of Typhoon Yolanda on Northern Iloilo Polytechnic State College, Estancia, Iloilo. Photo by Dads Abog Ravena BY MONTESA GRINO-CAOYONAN The Department of Education 6 (DepEd-6) has recorded 35 public schools in Iloilo that were damaged by super typhoon Yolanda. Records of DepEd-6 shows that 1,139 classrooms were totally damaged while 1, 168 were partially damaged. Among the affected public schools with totally damaged classrooms are Batad National High School, 14 totally damaged classrooms; Valerio P. Palmares NHS in Batad, 13; Granaga NHS in Carles, 13; Estancia NHS, nine and four national high schools in Concepcion namely Tambaliza, 12; Roberto H. Tirol, 10; Cabalic and Loong, six each, respectively. Also, Ilongbukid NHS in San Rafael, nine; Hachienda Conchita in San Dionisio, eight; Ardemil NHS in Sara, Jovita Alfaras Rivera NHS and Anabo NHS in Lemeny, six each; Bingawan NHS in Bingawan, Cabudian NHS in Duenas and San Enrique NHS, five each; Milan NHS in Lemery, four; Polopina NHS in
Concepcion and Dagami NHS in Maasin, three each; and one each for Mostro NHS in Anilao, Luca NHS in Ajuy; Santiago NHS in Barotac Nuevo, Caninguan NHS in Lambunao and Dingle NHS. Partially damaged classrooms are Balasan NHS, 37; Estancia NHS, 32; Roberto NHS, 24; Anilao and Luca NHS, 14 each; Loong NHS, seven; Cabalic NHS, six; Batad, Santiago and Barotac Viejo NHS, five each; Anabo NHS in Lemery, Tabugon NHS in Dingle, Mostro and Cabudian, four each; Culasi NHS in Ajuy, three; Dingle, Gines in Alimodian, Dagami, San Antonio, Rufino, Bay-ang in Ajuy, and Jovita Alfaras Rivera NHS, two each and Camiros and Pagdugue NHS, one each. Jerry Bionat, director of Iloilo Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) said a total of 879 classrooms were used as evacuation centers by displaced evacuees despite of the damages. Yolanda /p5
METRO NEWS
2
METRO
on the road
DOLE DOLE increases budget to P5-million for emergency employment of workers in Western Visayas severely affected by Yolanda Department of Labor and Employment Region 6 Director Ponciano M. Ligutom announced that his office increased the budget from P2.5 to P5 million for the emergency employment of workers who were severely affected when typhoon Yolanda hit Western Visayas last Friday, Nov. 8. Ligutom made this announcement after receiving the final report from his staff which shows that region 6 has the remaining budget of P5.036-million for livelihood projects that was already downloaded to the different field offices. He instructed the team in-charge of the livelihood program to coordinate with all the field office heads as to the realignment of this remaining budget for the emergency employment of workers in their respective provinces who were severely affected by the recent typhoon.DOLE6
PIA Life for campus press goes on; 78 publications vie for PIA awards Amidst the wreckage of Super Typhoon Yolanda in Western Visayas, student publications still rise to compete for the 2013 College Press Conference (COPRE) of the Philippine Information Agency. Seventy-eight college and high school publications have joined the various journalistic categories for this year’s awards, for the Best Magazine, Best Tabloid/ Newspaper, Best College/High School Newsletter, Best Literary Folio, Best Multi-Lingual Paper, and Best Wall News. Aside from the above, the categories also include Best News Page, Best Feature Page, Best Filipino Page, Best Sports Page, Best Magazine Cover Design, Best Magazine Layout, and Best Newspaper Layout. This year’s COPRE and Awards event, originally slated in Roxas City is brought back to Iloilo, at the Iloilo Grand Hotel, on the same date, November 28. (JCM/ESS/PIA-Iloilo)
Iloilo City Gov’t
CITY HALL CANCELS XMAS PARTY TO HELP “YOLANDA” VICTIMS The City Government will put off holding its Christmas Party on Dec. 20 and will instead use the fund to help the victims of Typhoon Yolanda. Mayor Jed Patrick E. Mabilog said this was agreed upon during the meeting with heads of offices and departments on Wednesday. “We cannot just go on enjoying ourselves when we know a lot of people still need help and relief assistance, and are facing a bleak Christmas,” he said. Iloilo City PIO
November 17 -23, 2013
Dakasi, closed again BY REYMAR LATOZA
The Iloilo City health office had withdrawn the sanitary permit of Dakasi, a milk tea serving establishment in Smallville, Brgy. San Rafael, Iloilo City after it reopened Monday last week, November 11, 2013 despite of pending investigation. Three days after the said establishment became operational, they decided for a voluntary closure. When asked about his statement on the reopening of Dakasi, Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog said CHO officer Dr. Urminico Baronda Jr. had ordered Dakasi to return its sanitary permit.
At least 66 were hospitalized due the alleged food poisoning after eating at Dakasi. Up to now, the laboratory tests have not yet completed. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is still waiting other results from the central office in Manila. Meanwhile, Four out of six samples taken from Dakasi were found contaminated after the microbiological and chemical tests conducted by the food and Drug Administration (FDA). Black tea, sugar, and taro powder were contaminated of microorganisms, while milk tea, egg pudding, and
City gov’t extends help
BY MONTESA GRIÑO-CAOYONAN The Iloilo City Government will extend help to heavily-affected municipalities in fifth district of Iloilo after thousands of families were left homeless by super typhoon Yolanda. Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog said they will send aid for the province either in cash or in kind to help fifth district particularly the 11 badlyhit municipalities of Barotac Viejo, Ajuy, San Rafael, Lemery, Sara, San Dionisio, Concepcion, Batad, Carles, Balasan, and Estancia. Mabilog said they have an available fund of P 1.6 million for the said purpose and he will request the City Council to approve the donation on next week’s regular session. The mayor added he preferred to give the help to fellow Ilonggos instead to extend help to other provinces in the country that were also badly-hit by the typhoon. Meanwhile, the city government will be extending financial assistance to typhoon-affected families in Iloilo City as quick response. Based on the report of the City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (CDRRMC), there were 5, 741 affected families or composed of 28, 705 individuals from 97 affected
barangays that sought temporary shelter to 153 evacuation centers in the city. Also, a total of 57 houses were totally destroyed and 313 partially damaged. Mabilog said a cash aid of P 5,000 each will be given to families whose houses were totally-damaged while P 2,500 each for partially damaged. The mayor also gave a very good rating to CDRRMC and City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) for their preparation, performance with zero-casualty and on time distribution of relief packs during the crisis. The city hall also opted to cancel their upcoming Christmas Party to help Yolanda victims. “We cannot just go on enjoying ourselves when we know a lot of people still need help and relief assistance, and are facing a bleak Christmas,” he said. Since Iloilo City was spared from horrible effects of typhoon, Mabilog spearheaded a 4 p.m. mass last Friday at the ground floor of new City Hall building as a thanksgiving prayer right after the 3 p.m. procession from Plaza Libertad up to Fort San Pedro, vice versa. All city hall employees are required to attend the thanksgiving mass. IMT
DSWD-6 to prepare rehab, intervention program for typhoon victims BY MONTESA GRIÑO-CAOYONAN The Department Social Welfare and Development 6 (DSWD-6) is now preparing its rehabilitation and intervention program for the typhoon victims from most hit municipalities in the region after their massive relief operations. DSWD-6 public information office May Rago-Castillo said they will conduct a short-term intervention to mitigate the distressed condition of those typhoon victims by providing cash for work and stress debriefing. She also said as long-term intervention, they will conduct training for different livelihoods to improve the living condition of those typhoon victims. “It is an income generating project to sustain the daily needs of those affected families”, she said. The DSWD-6 has already released a total of P 10 million for their relief assistance. Castillo said he amount of relief assistance released by their department triples in just three days reaching to the said amount which covering the six provinces in Western Visayas. As of 6 a.m of November 13, records of the DSWD show that 38,491 family packs amounting to P10,046,407 were already given to the provinces of Antique, Aklan, Capiz, Guimaras, Iloilo and Negros Occidental.
DSWD-6 director Ma. Evelyn Macapobre assured assistance to typhoon affected families in the entire region though the number of affected families continues to increase. Director Macapobre along with with Iloilo Lone District Rep. Jerry Trenas, Capiz 1st District Rep. Antonio Del Rosario, and Negros Occidental 3rd District Rep. Alfredo Benitez conducted an aerial survey on Tuesday to assess the extent of damage caused by typhoon Yolanda. Through the aerial survey, national government agencies would also be able to determine the needs of affected families and provide them with proper aid to enable them to recover from their present condition. Of the six provinces of the region, Iloilo received the highest augmentation in form of relief goods amounting to P5.4 million; Capiz, P1.6 million; Aklan, P1.3 million; Antique, P792,130; Negros Occidental, P547,056; and Guimaras, P214,542. On the same date, there are already 430 volunteers who helped in the repacking of relief goods for distribution to typhoon affected areas in the entire region. While, there are 195 volunteers who facilitated the hauling of relief good at the DSWD compound to be delivered to the different affected provinces. IMT
tapioca were free of microbial contamination. However, milk tea was proven contaminated of melamine after a chemical test. According to FDA, melamine is a nitrogen based compound that was utilized to bolster the apparent protein content in foods or ingredients used in processed food products intended to contain protein. FDA further explained that when melamine and cyanuric acid are absorbed into the bloodstream, they concentrate and interact in the urine-filled renal tubules, then crystallize and form large numbers of round, yellow crystals, which in turn block and damage the renal cells that line the tubes, causing the kidneys to malfunction. Dakasi management temporarily closed their establishment a day after the incident (September 27, 2013)
and cooperated with the local health authorities. It was found out that Dakasi under the Tee Star Corporation and being managed by John John Uy has no sanitary permit – one of the requirements in getting a business permit before operating. Reportedly, the establishment has started operating illegally since February this year. Baronda, however, refused to have an idea in the operation nor knowing personally the manager. This reported milk tea poisoning affected other milk tea serving establishments in the city. Three milk tea shops admitted that they felt the negative impact this incident involving milk tea product, especially to their sales. Sharetea, Moonleaf, and Bon Appetea said that they were greatly affected as the number of their costumers suddenly dropped. IMT
Yolanda death toll in Iloilo climbs to 189; 20 missing
BY MONTESA GRIÑO-CAOYONAN
The death toll in Iloilo climbed to 189 while 20 persons are still missing based on the report of the Iloilo Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) as of Thursday morning. Of the 189 casualties, 86 deaths are recorded in town of Estancia followed by Carles, 38; Batad, 11; Concepcion, nine; Passi City and San Dionisio, eight each; Balasan, seven; Dingle, six; Sara, four; two each from towns of Tubungan, Zarraga, Duenas, San Enrique while one each for towns of Calinog, Lambunao, Lemery and Barotac Nuevo. On the other hand, missing persons were recorded in towns of San Miguel, one; Ajuy, three; Concepcion, six; Estancia, nine; and San Dionisio, one. Iloilo Gov. Arthur Defensor, Sr. assured families of casualties that burial assistance will be given to them as soon as the relief operation is finished. Apart from burial aid, Defensor also assured homeless families for financial aid to help them build their respective houses. A total of 136,575 houses were damaged of which, 78,343 houses were totally wrecked while 58,232 partially damaged. Normally, the burial assistance given by the province is between
P5,000 to P10,000 while P5,000 and P2,500 for totally and partially damaged houses, respectively. The assistance however, will depend on the availability of fund. Defensor said the Iloilo provincial government has P21 million quick response fund available from the PDRRMC which is equivalent to five percent of the province’s annual budget. Meanwhile, the governor said the province has already released almost P8 million from its saving fund to purchase canned goods and sacks of rice for the relief operation apart from the donations received in 122 local donors. As of Thursday, an additional P2 million was released by the provincial government to purchase additional goods. Defensor announced that Canada has also sent goods for northern Iloilo on Thursday. On the same date, several Canadian officials will also conduct an aerial survey in northern Iloilo in preparation for whatever assistance they will be extending to the province. On Friday, Ilonggo Sen. Franklin Drilon will also arrive in Iloilo to deliver relief goods and the Office of the Governor will brief him of the present situation status of the province for the rehabilitation and recovery plan. IMT
Cops warn looters
BY MONTESA GRIÑO-CAOYONAN The Iloilo Police Provincial Office (IPPO) warned thieves of an existing anti-fencing law amid reports of looting incidents in some typhoondevastated municipalities in the province. Fencing” is the act of any person who, with intent to gain for himself or for another, shall buy, receive, possess, keep, acquire, conceal, sell or dispose of, or shall buy and sell, or in any other manner deal in any article, item, object or anything of value which he knows, or should be known to him, to have been derived from the proceeds of the crime of robbery or theft. IPPO provincial director Senior Supt. Cornelio Salinas has ordered all chiefs of police to use their visitorial power in checking all junk shops in their area of responsibility. This after an electric company in the province has already reported
to them that there were some thieves who stolen their damaged electric transmission lines which give them a hard time restoring those power lines. “I already ordered all my chiefs of police to check several suspected junk yards and scrap dealers who are buying stolen materials especially aluminum wires. If thieves are found or caught in flagrante, they are to be arrested immediately”, he said. Apart from this, chiefs of police were also directed to conduct surprise inspection of several dealers of goods and other commodities for possible overpricing. “We do not want others to take advantage of the present situation”, he said. Salinas advised the public to be vigilant against all forms of illegal activities and do not hesitate to report the incident to the nearest police station. IMT
November 17 -23, 2013
METRO BUSINESS
3
FAST ECONOMIC RECOVERY FOR WV seen BY REYMAR LATOZA
With millions of pesos worth of damages in agriculture and infrastructure, the economic growth of Western Visayas (WV) will be affected, but it can quickly rebound because of the financial aides coming from the private sectors, and international groups, according to a professor of economics professor at Iloilo Science and Technology (ISAT-U). She explained that as long as the other major industries are continuously producing, and the money is moving, WV can easily recover from the damages caused by super typhoon ‘Yolanda’ (International name: ‘Haiyan’). The typhoon damaged lots of houses, bridges, roads, crops, and livestock in the said region. Other economists and heads of international business groups concurred in the same view. In a report of Reuters, an economist
said growth usually rebounds quickly after natural disasters due to the lift of from spend on reconstruction. In the same report, Citi economist Jun Trinidad said in a note that netting out the contribution of the worst-hit areas from the bank’s fourth quarter GDP estimates still gave full-year growth of 6.8 percent, compared with a pre-typhoon range of 7.3-7.5 percent. Most agricultural region would likely share 1 percentage off of growth in national gross domestic product (GDP) in 2014. On the other hand, Diwa Guinigundo, deputy central bank governor said the flow of remittance payments from
Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) will increase response to the disaster. In a separate report of Reuters, Daniel Martin, at Capital Economics, pointed out in a note that looking at GDP alone can under-represent the negative impact of a disaster and overstate the recovery. “GDP does not capture the destruction of assets but does record spending to replace them,” he said.
Based on the latest report of Regional Risk Reduction Management Council (RRRMC-6), the estimated cost of damage in agriculture and infrastructure amounted to P151,237,161.13 and 182,231,190.00, respectively. The damage in rice sector reached to almost P127 million. Other crops damaged were Corn and Cassava (P23,337, 162.500) and HVC
NGCP begins restoring damaged facilities
‘Do not take advantage of the calamity’- DTI BY KHARIZA JOY SOFIA The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region VI continues to monitor several medium and large markets around the typhoon-hit areas in the province to make sure that prices are within the suggested retail price (SRP) since the implementation of price freeze. DTI Public Information Officer Ruby Melliza said that the agency can only monitor medium and big markets but not the ‘tiangge’-type so they are appealing to the owners not to take advantage of the situation. “We are requesting the owners of the ‘tiangges’ to please do not increase the prices of their goods. This is not the time to take advantage of our fellowmen. This is a time of helping each other”, Melliza plead. Melliza added that since price
BY REYMAR LATOZA
freeze is effective, Even this electric post along the road was not spared by the local residents Yolanda. (Photo by JM Mejorada) can help monitor the prices and they can report their concerns to any DTI offices. She explained that for the agency to send immediate response the resident must report the specific name of the BY KHARIZA JOY SOFIA establishment, the item he bought and The Department of Public Works the price it was sold. The Public information officer and Highways (DPWH) declared that further declared that DTI-6 Regional the damaged to infrastructures brought Director Dominic Abad had personally by Typhoon Yolanda in the region has visited the affected areas to monitor already reached 600-million. Iloilo record the highest damage the prices as well as check the basic with a total of 300-million, Capiz with needs and prime commodities needed 160-million, Aklan with 60-million, by the victims. Negros Occidental with 60-million As of November 12, DTI has already monitored 8 municipalities, and Antique with 30-million. DPWH Regional Director which includes Janiuay, Dumangas, Banate, Carles, Sara, Concepcion, Edilberto Tayao said that they are exerting efforts to repair roads and Ajuy and San Dionisio.IMT bridges. “All roads are passable as a temporary bridge was put up over Suage Bridge in Janiuay, which was damaged during the onslaught of the typhoon”, said Tayao.
Tayao added that instead of repairing the said bridge, DPWH will construct a better and stronger one, which will begin next week. He explained that the Suage Bridge was already ‘old’ and ‘substandard’. The agency also recorded another wrecked bridge, the Magapa Bridge, also in Janiuay and a temporary bridge was also created for the vehicles to pass through. Around P300-million was set aside by the agency for the rehabilitation of damaged roads and bridges in Iloilo and another P300-million will be released for Aklan, Antique, Capiz and Negros Occidental. Tayao further added that Magape and Suage Bridges will be widened to 7.4 meters from the current 6 meters.IMT
been significantly damaged by the typhoon. These health facilities are the 13 hospitals located in Capiz (6), Aklan (3), Iloilo (2) and Antique (2). Also, damaged are 20 Rural Health Units from the five provinces of the region. The province of Aklan has posted the most number of damaged RHUs reaching 9, followed by Capiz and Iloilo with 4 each, Antique, 2 and Negros Occidental 1. Some 24 Barangay Health Stations and 3 birthing facilities in the region were not also spared from the raging winds of ‘Yolanda’. Of the 24 affected BHS, 7 were totally damaged, all located in Northern Iloilo. Convocar said the teams also brought along with them medical supplies like first aid and medical kits and other medicines. In anticipation of additional casualties, DOH has now raised its alert status from code white to code blue to ensure availability of possible drugs and medicines needed; presence of medical personnel 24-hour day; continuous coordination with other key health personnel and agencies ; and preparation of needed reports for action. As of 5 PM November 12, Convocar said more than one million people are now affected by the effects of the typhoon in Western Visayas with around 1, 270 injured, 15 were missing and 195 lost their lives. (JCM/ LAF/PIA6)
address common chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension and asthma likely to be aggravated by the anxiety and stress as well as the difficult conditions faced on a daily basis by the victims. The Price Act (Republic Act 7581) mandates the DOH to automatically freeze the prices of essential drugs classified as basic commodities or impose maximum price ceilings particularly in times of calamities to protect consumers from profiteering, hoarding, cartels and other such violations by traders who may take advantage of the calamity situation. Ona ordered the price freeze to be effective immediately in all public and private drug retail outlets nationwide including hospital pharmacies. Consumers are encouraged to lodge complaints against any violation, as Ona warned drug manufacturers, traders and retailers to strictly implement the order. T h e H e a l t h
Damage on infrastructures reaches 600-million
P3-M worth of drugs, medicines, supplies for WV affected provinces BY LILIBETH A. FRENCH The Department of Health – Center for Health and Development 6 has so far provided P3 million worth of drugs and medicines and supplies specifically for the four heavily affected provinces in the region by super typhoon ‘Yolanda’. DOH-CHD 6 Director Marlyn Convocar said during the press conference organized by the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council 6 held at the CAAP Office at the Iloilo Airport, November 13 that the drugs and medicines were given to the provinces of Capiz, Antique, Iloilo and Aklan A month before the typhoon struck the region, the agency has already prepositioned P1.4 million worth of drugs and medicines to the different provinces in the region and later purchased additional P1.6 million. Convocar said Response and Assessment Teams were also deployed to assess the damage caused by the super typhoon in the health facilities of these four affected provinces since November 11. The teams are composed of 16 doctors, 14 nurses, and 12 other support staff like engineers and to act as secretariat. “They have to be back on Friday to give us the assessment of the damaged health facilities,” said Convocar. As of Tuesday, the DOH has recorded 60 health facilities that have
(P13, 471,893.50).For livestock, losses amounted to 1,341,555.00. And damage in fisheries reached to 17,530,565.00. In infrastructure, damages in roads and bridges reached to P96,209, 161.13 (DPWH) and 14, 408,000.00 (LGU). And other structures amounted to P40,620,000.00. WV is known as an agricultural region. It is among the top contributors in the country’s GDP . In the recent data of the National Statistical Coordination Board (NSCB), WV was ranked 5th, contributing 4.1 percent to total GDP. IMT
The monitoring and inspection of damaged transmission lines and other facilities after hit by super typhoon Yolanda is on going, according to the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP). Power has been partially restored in the province of Iloilo. Some portions of Iloilo, especially the hardest hit areas have still no power. In a press statement, NGCP said the loss of power may be caused by affected transmission facilities of NGCP or distribution facilities of local distribution utilities or electric cooperatives. Specific cities and municipalities affected by the power interruptions are determined by concerned Distribution Utilities, unless the outage affects the entire franchise area. Necessary preparations and precautions have been implemented to minimize the impact of the storm on NGCP operation and facilities. These include ensuring the availability of hardware materials and supplies necessary for the repair of damages to facilities, as well as the positioning of line crews in strategic areas, to facilitate immediate restoration work. IMT
DOH implements price freeze on essential medicines
Health Secretary Enrique Ona announced Friday the implementation of price freeze on about 200 essential medicines to ensure their availability for thousands of super-typhoon Yolanda victims who are vulnerable to many diseases because of lack of food, clean water and the difficult conditions in typhoon-stricken areas. “Securing the health and safety of the typhoon victims is an immediate priority of the DOH. We have to make sure that they have access to the medicines that they need and that public hospitals and government agencies are able to source affordable drugs to reach as many of our countrymen severely affected by this crisis,”said Ona. The price freeze include essential drugs for physical and mental trauma and injury, diarrhea, pneumonia, skin diseases and other infections such as leptospirosis and other endemic diseases in affected areas. The Department of Health is monitoring potential occurrence or possible outbreak of communicable diseases because of the lack of water and sanitation facilities as well as the non-functional state of primary health facilities in typhoon affected areas. Other essential drugs covered by the price freeze include those that
Secretary also clarified that a price freeze means that suppliers, pharmacies and hospitals should not unduly hike the prices of essential drugs from their prevailing prices before the occurrence of the calamity. The DOH through the Order published both the Drug Price reference Index (DPRI) to impose a price ceiling in government bidding and procurement of medicines as well as Suggested Retail Prices (SRP) to guide consumers on the lowest cost quality generic drugs in private pharmacies. All DOH regional directors were tasked to monitor the prices of essential drugs and make sure there is no overpricing especially in calamitystricken areas.(PNA)
METRO TOURISM WV to lead One Visayas Tourism in attaining national goals BY KHARIZA JOY SOFIA With both Central and Eastern Visayas severely damaged by typhoon Yolanda, Department of Tourism (DOT) Region 6 Regional Director Atty. Helen Catalbas said that Western Visayas is now the flag bearer of the One Visayas Tourism in accomplishing their national goals. She explained
that aside from regional concerns, the region has also national goals where they need to ____. “I would like to clarify that we are not seizing the opportunity but rather to work hard to recover what ever has been lost”, Catalbas reiterate. Catalbas has already canceled some of the contracts in promoting
so as to focus on the recovery of the devastated areas. She said that the rest of Iloilo, rest of Negros Occidental, Guimaras, Aklan, Capiz and rest of Antique who were not severely damaged should double their effort to cover everything that have been lost. DOT added that the Halaran Festival in Capiz will go on,
although the theme will focus on the thanksgiving for sparing the town in a more devastated shape. Catalbas said she will be in Northern Antique next week to assess the tourism sites. “I will meet someone to discuss about the Aus Aide for the affected tourism sites”, said Catalbas. “I will also have an emergency meeting with the regional directors in Manila hopefully to ask for additional help”, she added. Catalbas pointed out
An aerial view of the wrath of typhoon Yolanda in an island barangay in Conception, Iloilo
DOT assures aid to affected tourism areas
BY KHARIZA JOY SOFIA
“We will see to it, while we cannot promise them huge financial help, we will help them should they decide to get a loan on the bank”, these are the words from the Department of Tourism (DOT) Region 6 Regional Director Atty. Helen Catalbas. She explained that agency is open to make representation for the resort/hotel owners on the typhoon-hit areas in order for them to recuperate. Catalbas said that they have realigned financial resources to help the tourism-oriented communities on the typhoon-hit areas recover from the devastation they have experienced on the onslaught of typhoon Yolanda. In some areas where no electric supply yet available, Catalbas recommends to the hotel/resort owners that the use of generator is optional. To some, they can start market non air-conditioned rooms and reduce the price of the rooms
up to 20-30 percent. She added that they can also take away the breakfast from the inclusion and sell breakfast at separate bill. DOT regional director identified Northern Iloilo, especially the towns of Estancia, Ajuy and Carles, which were dependent in tourism as their livelihood, Capiz, Northern Antique, some part of Aklan and Northern Negros Occidental as badly hit areas. Catalbas though admits that despite the physical massive destruction, they have yet to quantify the total effect of
the catastrophe on the tourism of the region as a whole. Moreover, DOT said that they temporarily set aside the promotion and prioritize recovery. “Of course, how can we promote if we will not recover first?”, Catalbas asked. In addition, DOT also aims to reduce the travel time to Capiz from almost 5 hours to 3 hours only. They also extend some amount to resume river cruise activities on the place. “Last week, we traveled almost 5 hours from here to Capiz. We have to bring back things to normal in order to attract tourists again”, Catalbas disclosed.
that Dinagyang Festival, Ati-Atihan Festival and many other festivals in the region on January should attract more visitors. She said that everything will be affected especially the transportation sector. ‘We can’t let transportation sector cut-off. It will affect the influx of the tourist in the city”, she remarked. Catalbas further added that she will send a team to Northern Iloilo to assess the place. Although slowly, she assures that everything will be back to normal.
ILOILO METROPOLITAN TIMES
November 17 -23, 2013
5
Core shelter: True to its name The purpose whose houses were totally of the Core Shelter destroyed by natural and Assistance Program of man-made calamities and the Department of Social who have no capacity to Welfare and Development build or construct their was validated when own units. Typhoon “Yolanda” The project aims ravaged the northern part to reduce the number of Iloilo province. of homeless families The housing units every year by providing a provided the beneficiaries structurally strong shelter more than just roofs above Core shelter: One of the core shelter projects of the DSWD in Ajuy, Iloilo. and at the time Yolanda... from page their heads; they also True to its name, the housing units provided not only roofs above their same develop and gave them with comfort heads but also comfort and safety to the beneficiaries. He added regular classes also In Barangay Lanjagan, where promote the value of self-reliance and relief that even during a “super resumed in some damaged schools 120 new housing units were recently among the beneficiaries and the typhoon,” they are in a safe place. while pupils whose classrooms were Of the three core shelter projects finished and turned over to the community. totally damaged sought temporary The Mines and Geosciences of DSWD in the town of Ajuy, which beneficiaries, families were seen on shelter to other vacant rooms and was one of the areas badly hit by the their normal routine a day after Bureau issues a certification that the spaces at their school compound. recent typhoon, only one site was Typhoon Yolanda caused massive location of the project is safe before the If rehabilitated, Bionat said each start of its implementation. The DSWD affected with minor damage on the destruction in the northern towns. CSAP is a rehabilitation program provides funds for implementation of totally damaged classroom will have roofs and windows of a few houses. Recipients of the CSAP used to which aims to provide structurally the project with a counterpart from an estimated cost of P 260, 000 while live in areas prone to flooding and in strong shelter units that can withstand the local government unit./DSWD/ P 150, 000 for partially damaged 180-220 kph wind velocity to families WennaBerondo-Bendol places that are often hit by calamities. classroom.
Back to zero... from page 1 Visayas has contributed a big impact in the economic growth particularly on tourism, agriculture, fisheries and food industries. NEDA assistant regional director Atty. Raul Anlocotan said wide damaged of aquatic and marine products were recorded in northern Iloilo particularly in Estancia town which is known as the “Alaska of the Philippines” and in Capiz province also known as the “Seafood Capital of the Philippines”. Anlocotan said with low
production of fish products it will result to higher prices, although, he said that Iloilo has also some alternative sources of marine products particularly in Guimaras strait, southern Iloilo and neighboring province of Antique. He added they are also expecting slow recovery on fishing industry because most of fishing boats, storage and processing facility were totally wrecked. Anlocotan also said they are also expecting reduction of agricultural production this quarter and on the next
PANDEMONIUM ... FROM PAGE 6 washing machine, and freezers was unthinkable and could outrightly be considered as plunder. There are just so many ifs. If only a contingent of special forces coming from any or all branches of the military including the Philippine National Police was deployed quickly to the ravaged city of Tacloban, the pandemonium could have been contained quickly; If only rational thinking by our leaders caused the enlistment of affluent individuals owning helicopters, boats, and vehicles, and corporate commercial airlines and ships, for relief efforts. If only generators were immediately set up in selected areas both for lighting, powering up of communication equipment, and charging of cellphone batteries, better strategizing for relief and rescue operations could have been undertaken. If only the 220,000 inhabitants were forcibly evacuated to higher grounds before disaster struck, many deaths could have been averted. While the focus of international attention is riveted on Tacloban City,
our fellow Ilonggos, Capiznons, Aklanons, and Antiquenos are desperately scavenging for scant resources still at their disposal. The national government maintains that help is coming soon but as what has happened in the past, promises are often forgotten. It is to the credit of the Panayanons that they are able to assemble their remnant resources to rebuild their shelters and move on with their lives while acknowledging the blessings from relatives, friends, kind-hearted individuals, and even from local government units and certain national agencies. In the midst of the pandemonium, it is inspiring and heart-warming to see the outpouring of support from foreign governments and international relief organizations. The foreign aid inflow is unprecedented in Philippine history, an indication that our current miseries are able to connect with the other citizens of the world. Netizens have been very vocal lately in thanking profusely the nations and philanthropic organizations
1 Bionat added around P 471 million or more will be needed for the said rehabilitation program. The director also said 607 DepEd personnel were also affected by the typhoon as per record by the department. Iloilo listed more than 50 tertiary, 200 high schools and 1100 elementary schools both public and private. IMT
quarter since most riceland in Panay Island and part of Negros Occidendal were also damaged. The director said foreign exchange or products exported to other countries will be affected, too. Anlocotan also said it would take two years to normalize the entire industry because all sources of livelihood and other vital inputs such as power supply and infrastructure were also damaged. As major role of NEDA-6, the assistant director said they will conduct
an inventory of all the damaged infrastructures and agriculture that are subject for rehabilitation and recovery. Anlocotan stressed the assessment will take within three months and after that they will be coming up with a rehabilitation and recovery plan. Once finished, he said they will submit the report to the Office of the President for identification of priority projects and funding purposes. As of writing time, a total of 431,131 families composed of 2,086,870 persons were affected by the
onslaught of Typhoon Yolanda based on the record of the Office of Civil Defense 6 (OCD-6). The typhoon also left 124,545 houses totally damaged while 141,162 partially damaged. An estimated cost of damaged in infrastructure and agriculture amounted to P 150,115,161 and P 182,231,190, respectively. The numbers of casualties are also increasing which consist of 112 dead, 165 injured and 10 missing persons as of press time. IMT
for helping the needy Filipinos. The logjam in the distribution of goods and medicines remains a poor reflection of our leaders’ managerial expertise but as the saying goes, there is always that learning curve operating within the realm of diminishing returns even for neophytes. The Scripture says that our faith is tested in the furnace of affliction (Isaiah 48:10) not to condemn us, but to raise us up. Filipinos are probably close to God that He loves them so much and could not just
leave them alone. He sends trials to make us better and stronger. And if we stay moldable, pliable, and are willing
to change, He will refine us into a vessel of gold for His greater glory and praise.
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METRO OPINION
Pandemonium from the Perfect Typhoon
EDITORIAL
Resurgence
A
week after the devastation of what could be the strongest typhoon ever to land in the Philippines, things are becoming so different. People are trying to rebuild their own lives again wishing things were just a part of a nightmare. In just a snap, hundreds and thousands of properties, livelihoods, (and worst) lives were lost. And now, one would just hate to see these numbers, estimates, and statistics increase day by day. The trail of death and destruction is unbelievable. Typhoon Yolanda is considered to be one of the deadliest typhoons on record not only in the Philippines but in the Pacific as well killing more than two thousand in just a day. Its international name Haiyan was derived from a Chinese word for storm petrel, a type of bird that lives over the open sea and returns to land only for breeding. Prior preparations seemed to have not helped anyone prevent this kind of damage. The government and the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAG-ASA) have not failed in reminding the public the possible destruction that this Supertyphoon could bring. Public and private institutions augment ways to come-up with the most expeditious means of helping the affected areas but it seems like there are still things that need an adequate attention in addressing the needs of the victims. Local and international aides are pouring but are still not enough. People cry for immediate help. Some of them are now living empty-handed and have not eaten a decent amount of food for couple of days withstanding the inconvenience of having no power supply in their areas and limited communication to inform their loved ones how they are doing. Even their shelter, their very basic need to survive has been taken away from them. Dreams have been vanished for many and not knowing where to start again is perhaps the most difficult question to answer now. At some point, we need to face the reality that this situation brings sadness, frustration, disappointment, empathy and condolences to what have been lost. Physical, emotional, psychological and spiritual restoration must also be restored The scars and bruises of this painful experience will forever be embedded in the hearts of these people. They will be eventually healed but memories will keep flashing back. In the midst of this crisis, the ‘Bayanihan’ spirit remains the strongest weapon of the Filipinos to overcome these challenges. The collaborative efforts of our brothers and sisters who were not thoroughly affected have been very overwhelming up to this time. People share their resources. They take time to think of ways how to help. They extend their horizon to link with people with the same advocacy to reach out. Indeed, the resiliency of the Filipino people is still the best version in the world!
November 17 -23, 2013
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or a decade, I taught meteorology to undergraduate students. Part of the lessons include etymology and evolution of a cyclone, extrapolation of trajectory through mathematical modeling, and mitigation measures to undertake to secure lives and properties. When I first saw the satellite image published by the Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC) based in Hawaii, USA way before Haiyan entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility, I was stumped. It had the making of a perfect typhoon: the eye was well-formed, perfectly circular, slow moving, awesome swath of influence, and with incredibly super wind speed near the center. Three days before the predicted first landfall, there was this
T
he Agencia Española de Cooperación Internacional para el Desarrollo (AECID) or the Spanish Agency of International Cooperation for Development an institution of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation of Spain – which celebrates this year its 25 years of work for sustainable human development and poverty reduction, being a fundamental tool for the Spanish contribution to international development and channeling the expression of solidarity of Spanish citizenship, has established international partnerships and strengthened Spain’s relations with other countries and institutions, like the Commission on Human Rights of the Philippines (CHR). “The AECID has granted the amount of 2.75 million Euros or PhP 137,500,000 for the CHRAECID Fortaleza Project entitled, ‘Institutional Strengthening of the Commission on Human Rights
morning radio program where I listened to a PAGASA weather guy explaining how a cyclone evolves into a typhoon from being a mere tropical depression. He was obviously trying to impress both the anchorman and the listeners about the depth of his expertise on weather forecasting. What was irksome, however, was when he started to belittle the bulletins coming from JWTC and Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) as not reliable so everyone should junk them in favor of advisories only from PAGASA. Whaaat? Hello, since when did PAGASA acquire state-of-thearts facilities and equipment that it now outranks and outsmarts even the world’s bests? Cooperation and sharing are the new normal in weather tracking so ignoring feeds from non-World Meteorological Organization members like JWTC smacks of hot air and high degree of pomposity. At hindsight, it can be said that enough warnings were made to inform those along the typhoon’s path about the off scale magnitude of possible devastation. While preemptive evacuation was enforced in certain threatened and critical areas and relief goods as well as rescue vehicles and teams were reportedly on standby mode, veterans of previous typhoons took the developing events lightly. The common mindset at that time was Yolanda would just pass through like all previous typhoons. In typical nonchalant unison, the mantra was like “C’mon Yolanda, bring it on!” After the typhoon veered out of the country, Malacanang even had the temerity to announce that the resilient Filipinos especially those in Central
Philippines had once again successfully rode off the typhoon which left only three casualties. Imagine how preposterous Malacanang’s mouthpieces sounded when trickle by trickle and finally with the resonance of a big bang came the news that Tacloban was completely overwhelmed by storm surges reaching up to 17 feet near the shorelines. Casualties littered everywhere and wails of anguish came forth from the survivors. The TV footages were surreal, almost similar to scripted zombie movies where the Taclobanons walked like the living dead. The deluge of bad news were yet to come from other towns of Leyte, Samar, Northern Cebu, Northern Negros, Northern Iloilo, Northern Antique, Aklan, Capiz, Oriental Mindoro, and Northern Palawan. Storm chasers had some inklings that something big would happen so they prepositioned themselves in Tacloban just before the typhoon’s arrival. Earlier on, BBC, CNN, New York Times, Time Magazine, and other foreign correspondents had been highlighting the possible scenario resulting from a wind speed of 235 kph near the center, torrential downpour, and floods from storm surges and overflowing rivers. The common bottom line was that the crippling blow to the country’s midsection would make mincemeat even out of steel-reinforced structures. How does an impoverished
nation like Philippines prepare for a catastrophe wrought by an almost Category 5 typhoon? By the highest authority interrupting regular broadcasting to remind the people to be steadfast because they can surely overcome the impending disaster? By assuring his constituents that there are enough food stockpile for the affected families to be able to weather the crisis? By rallying the people through mere assurance that their resilience, indomitable spirit, and bayanihan trait will tide them over? When the local government unit breaks down, how quick can the national government respond to filling up the vacuum? Our national leaders have been weighed and tested. From all indications, it appears that their tactics for disaster preparedness and quick responses were found to be very wanting. Most were reactive rather than pro-active. Anderson Cooper of CNN summed it up pretty well when he asked the proverbial question, “ Who is in charge here?”. Words are cheap so it was easy for our leaders to assert that they were totally unprepared for the ferocity of the wind and the nature of destruction. But what about the ugly aftermath like wanton looting of commercial establishments and the uncollected, long-delayed burial of the dead? The hungry masses need free groceries for food, clothes, and water but carting off luxury appliances like LCD TV sets, Pandemonium /p5
of the Philippines,’ a three-year project for the period 2011-2014 to strengthen the Commission on Human Rights and to build a culture of human rights in the Philippines,” said Ms. Lourdes “Lody” Marina Padilla, the Project Manager, during the opening ceremonies of a seminar-workshop on Human Rights-Based Approach and Economic, Social and Cultural Rights conducted on November 11-15, 2013 at Amigo Terrace Hotel, Iloilo City. The seminar-workshop was for the capability building of personnel of the CHR coming from its different offices nationwide. She observed that since the creation of the CHR in 1987, the institution has grown and its services expanded. “However, not enough has been invested on equipment and infrastructure”, she said. “ This is an obstacle for the CHR staff to efficiently and effectively deliver its services both at the central and regional offices. Thus, the CHR-AECID Fortaleza Project will be ensuring that all the staff at the CHR has the necessary working conditions to perform their role.” According to Ms. Lody Padilla, the project has specific expected results. One specific expected result is the “strengthened ability of the CHR to promote, protect and elaborate policies in favor of human rights, in turn, institutionalizing standards, principles and work techniques with local government units and regional inter-agency institutions.” She explained that in this expected result the CHR officials and staff are better equipped to promote and protect human rights through institutionalizing human rights norms, standards and principles in government’s policies, plans and programs. Well, I think, the “institutionalizing” of human rights norms, standards and principles in government’s policies, plans and programs can be easier said than done. I do not know how many policymakers in government will ever cooperate in this thrust. I just hope that there will be more than a handful of them.
“Another expected result,” she said, “is the creation of a Human Rights’ Culture in which empowered communities are able to enforce their rights, and fully participate in/ determine their own development.” She clarified this to mean “that communities are empowered to efficiently engage government institutions for the enforcement of their rights and the realization of their development through the local state institutions.” She emphasized that the overarching goal of the project is to mainstream human rights as our way of life in the Philippines. The CHR-AECID Fortaleza Project has identified pilot areas of National Capital Region, Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao, Albay and Bohol for the multistakeholder integrated area approach in building a culture and community of human rights. This Project also intends the institutionalization of the Human Rights Action Centers and the Rule of Law (HRAC & ROL) as the community organizational expression. Ms. Lody Padilla explained that the HRAC and ROL establishes the formal and official human rights infrastructure and serves as the local arm of the CHR in its delivery of services and the promotion and protection of human rights established in different levels—provincial, municipal, zonal, or barangay. The Network of Human Rights Resource Centers (HRRCs)/ Centers of Human Rights Education (CHREs), which establishes a human rights community by organizing and strengthening partnerships among local stakeholders such as civil society groups, faith based organizations and the academe, serves as the HRAC multi-stakeholder support group and sustainability mechanism. Part of the Project is the “Human Rights on Wheels”. “This Human Rights on Wheels”, says Ms. Lody Padilla, “is the main promotional activity and serves as the link between the grassroots, the LGUs and the
Commission on Human Rights and vice versa. The Human Rights on Wheels presents the entry undertaking in the overall work to establish a human rights infrastructure in the area. The HRW creates dynamics which not only raises the awareness of the communities on human rights but also triggers the organizing of the HRAC & ROL.” She added that the Human Rights on Wheels strengthens the demand side of Human Rights of the claim holders. “It is hoped that the supply side from the duty bearers will be able to adequately and effectively respond.” If you can see a vehicle with red-plate number and on its rear you can read, “HUMAN RIGHTS ON WHEELS”, this you are sure comes from the fund of this Project. Part also of the CHR- AECID Fortaleza Project is to support four KASAMA projects per year. KASAMA stands for Karapatan sa Malikhaing Paraan (KaSaMa), a funding initiative by international donors to support civil society projects that provide a new take on addressing human rights issues in the Philippines, first launched in 2009. The CHR- AECID Fortaleza Project is under the management of Ms. Cristina Garcia Brito, AECID- Manila Project Manager for Governance. The Regional Director of the Commission on Human Rights Regional Office VI, Atty. David M. Bermudo said that if Super Typhoon Yolanda did not spare Iloilo City, the seminar-workshop would not have happened. If we try to examine it closely, there is something that each of us can be grateful of Yolanda despite the devastation it caused to our country. In my case, if not for Yolanda, I would not have attended said seminar-workshop and this piece would not have been written. What more should this country, or at least the CHR, be grateful to the AECID which has given so much for the Project.# Send feedback to: arnoldcares@ yahoo.com
THE CHR-AECID Fortaleza Project
November
17
-23,
2013
METRO OPINION
Killing time with Yolanda
I
know by the time this is published, much has been written about Super Typhoon Yolanda and how she ravaged the Visayas with her once-in-a-century fury. I would dare another account of how horrendous Yolanda was, for each of us has his or her own story to tell that is unique in the telling but similar in the effect and suffering. This story is not mine and recounted to me by someone who happened to be in the path of Super Typhoon Yolanda at Roxas City, Capiz. Here goes in the first person: Waiting for Yolanda was a combination of emotions ranging from anxiety mixed with fear, anticipation and sometimes foolish bravery as the eerily quiet atmosphere heighten the tension in the air. At least to me who has been tracking Yolanda’s arrival through social media and news from the radio and TV five days before it was brought to national attention. As a social media blogger and practitioner, I have been privy to news of hurricanes and typhoons for so long to understand that Yolanda is a special one to be concerned about especially due to its estimated
W
here were you, and what were you doing, when Super Typhoon Yolanda struck Iloilo? I was at home nursing a broken heart. You see, I had a great lead in the Rappler Do More Awards race until about Thursday when another finalist overtook me for the lead. I was tempted to strike back by doing a massive online campaign, but then I thought that it would be selfish, and in bad taste, when the country is suffering from the strongest recorded typhoon in history. So, I gave up and just stayed away from Facebook. I prayed instead to spare the country and the people of major damage. Feeling that I’ve done much campaigning for this award when it started, I just said that it was time to move on, and I won’t campaign anymore. If I win, I win. If I don’t, I can just say, “Don’t cry for me, Filipinas. The truth is I never left you.” After all, I watched “Evita – The Musical” on Wednesday
track that will hit the Province of Capiz.
Thursday, November 7, 9 AM I went out to buy enough drinking water, candles, batteries for my transistor radio, prepared my emergency kit, cooked food enough for two days and charged all my gadgets (even my trusty old Nokia N95). Furiously sharing updates on my site, Twitter and Facebook, I gathered all information and gave all warnings to the online community especially followers from Roxas City and Capiz about Yolanda. 6 PM CNN Weather gave the warning of 15-foot storm surge along the seashores of the islands targeted by Yolanda and estimated winds of up to 330 kph with 375 kph gustiness, significantly higher than Pag Asa’s 260 kph estimates. I prepared according to CNN’s Weather report and gave out online warnings of storm surge for residents of Roxas City and towns along the shore. Friday, November 8, 4 AM In time with Yolanda’s landfall in Guian, Eastern Samar a heavy downpour and lashing winds arrive night (Thursday morning in the Philippines). You actually gave up on your campaign? In a way, yes. Although I kept my faith in the Ilonggos. But another turning point for me was when Ariella Arida, Miss Philippines, lost her bid for the Miss Universe crown. I said to myself, “We were devastated by a super typhoon, Miss Philippines didn’t get the Miss Universe crown, so we really need a new hero to lift up our spirits. Ilonggos need something to feed their resilience.” I have a chance at being the “it” boy after the storm, so maybe I should take up my battle gear again, and be another hero, another warrior, another source of pride and inspiration.
in Roxas City and persisted for an hour, foreboding the arrival of the monster storm. Most folks thought that was the start, but we later learned that it was not even close as to what we will experience. 7:30 AM With electricity and cellphone signal still strong, I was still online while focusing on the reports coming from Tacloban City. When the rain has let up, the atmosphere was eerily quiet again; the calm before the storm. 9:00 AM With the slight drizzle and winds slowly picking up, I retied the tarp of my motorcycle, chained it in the window grills and propped it with lumber along the sides. Electricity was cut as of this time. 11:30 AM Relying on battery power I was able to Tweet and post on the arrival of Yolanda, when winds started to howl like a rushing jetliner readying to take off. ‘Yolanda has arrived. God help us’ was my last post before I turned off my Wifi to focus on the onslaught of Yolanda on my door and windows. to tighten the gap by at least 3%, maybe 4%. On November 5, I was leading the race with a 5% lead. On November 8, I was overtaken and was tailing by 5%. The scores stayed like that until I staged an online comeback on November 11, and by the morning of November 12, I was only tailing by 1%. Hope is alive again, and I think we can win this!
12:00 NOON My better half was at work just 300 meters from where we stay. She called saying she wanted to go home before it is too late. I agreed to meet her on the highway. I went out the door and Yolanda slammed me with a force that would humiliate a kickboxer. I struggled to stay low and shuffle to the gate, found my way along the concrete fences while the howling winds never let up for a breather even just for a few seconds. It was like I was inside a wind tunnel; non-stop whistling-300 kph winds slamming my face and body as I jostled with the force inch by inch along the walls. Upon reaching the highway, it was a different story. From the concrete fence where I took cover at the side of the highway, Yolanda’s gale force winds tore the house in front of my eyes and flew the entire roof 100 feet away. Then, the street light came tumbling down, pulling other poles with it down to the asphalt road that is already covered with debris. Another road sign flew inches from my refuge as I continue to scan for my wife amid the heavy rain. Already, water was rushing into the road from the canals. Another electric post came down on a brand
new Strada pick up truck, smashing it almost in half. That was the sign, I crawled back inch by inch to our house, fearing for flying metal sheets to cut my head in half or tree branches hammering my puny body. That was the longest and most harrowing five minutes of my life.
the fight? I can’t give up now, and if you want your voice to matter, you better not give up on me at this time. We need to battle to the finish. Onwards to victory!
computers, cellphones, iPads, tablets, or any device connected to the internet]. You can now vote for me multiple times. As I say, vote for me until they won’t let you vote anymore. Haha! Please help your family & friends to vote for me correctly. Kanugonsangnawasingamgaboto.
How to vote again?
I worked hard campaigning again on Facebook after my three days of solemn retreat and prayers for my beloved country. With the help of my key friends online, we were able
Don’t be so negative. Haha! The voting period has been extended to midnight of November 24. That will give Ilonggos, and non-Ilonggos who believe in the principle that I stand for, a chance to cast their votes. And I mean, cast their votes again, and again. I have personally tested and proven that one can actually vote for me several times on each device, so I advise my supporters to vote for me repeatedly until the site won’t let you vote anymore. Haha! Tanawontakonmapungganangilonggo! If you believe in me, and you have already started to show your support, would you give up in the middle of
1. Google or Yahoo search the words: “Peter Nery: The Storyteller.” Or, alternately, you can type the link: [ http://www.rappler.com/.../41958profile-peter-nery ] 2. Open the link. 3. Click on my black-and-white circular photo; I’m the one not wearing the eyeglasses among the three finalists. 3. Click until a box pops up saying: “Peter Nery is my Artist for the Rappler Do More Awards.” And that’s it. But if you want to be sure that your vote goes through, share it on your social networks like Facebook and Twitter. The box will ask if you want to “share” or “publish.” If you share, your vote will be confirmed on your wall. THE BIG ADVICE IS TO VOTE AGAIN. AND TO VOTE ON AS MANY DEVICES AS YOU HAVE [laptops, desk
drawn from the ways of babaylan that involves the “act of divination.” This means “discernment, diagnosis, criticism.” He particularly underscores criticism because it is this hauntedness that “drives the vocation of writers and the practice of writing.” Mojares questions for instance why the likes of Alfred Yuson’s novel Great Philippine Jungle Energy Café be seen as an imitation of the literary techique called magic realism primarily attributed to Latin American writers such as Gabriel Garcia Marquez, he of the One Hundred Years of Solitude fame, and not as an invocation of the spirits of Philippine epic heroes such as Tuwaang and Lam-ang? Last Nov.14-16, we restored our soul and reclaimed our babaylan lineage through and in the Pagbayaw: Foregrounding and Revitalizing the Sugidanun (Panay Epic), a conference/ performance/exhibit/gathering of
scholars, artists, writers, students, and local communities at UP in the Visayas, Iloilo City campus. Liby Limoso and Rene Trance mapped the genealogies of chanters and characters in the epic storytelling of Panay from Amang Pawa to the Caballero brothers of Calinog to anthropologists F.Landa Jocano and Alicia P. Magos; Agnes EspanoDimzon presented the positive images of the old wicked witch in ‘Amburukay;’ Joyce Christine Colon the concept and practice of tuos in the customary law of Panay Bukidnon, and Fuji Marbas Teodosio exhibited his original illustrations of our sculpted swords. Most importantly, the Caballero brothers – Romulo and Leopoldo – engaged us in chanting, storytelling, and workshop as the rest of the Panay Bukidnon community, both elders and youth, granted us the opportunity to be reconnected to our dying heritage through an
intimate experience with their indigenous music and dance. Pagbayaw was the result of shared vision and concerted efforts led by Dr. Alicia Magos and Dr. Christine Muyco of UP-Diliman and Balay Patawili. I read an excerpt from the novel in Kinaray-a that I am trying to finish, Kamatayan sa Isla Boracay, and discussed how sugidanon as our indigenous ‘verbal art’ and ‘vernacular eloquence’ manifests its literary and linguistic attributes in my creative process. I shared that I am positioning the lyric as a novel as the work-in-progress champions ‘aural and lyric arousal’ embodied in ‘domestic images and metaphors.’ As it offers to me a different route in plotting the narrative structure and use of authorial presence and the lyric speaker that showcases the power and beauty of the mother tongue, it is my hope that it could generate heightened attention and
So, after three days, you were resurrected?
What will you do if you lose the public poll for this award?
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3 PM After turning and hammering from another direction, Yolanda finally kicked my motorcycle down flat on the ground, twisting its chains as manifestation of its awesome power. I was reunited with my wife, who narrowly escaped flying broken glass from the windows and doors of their office when it exploded in front of her as she attempted to go out. 4 PM After more than three hours of non-stop hammering, Yolanda left Roxas City. I went out armed with my trusty N95 and braving the still empty streets went about capturing the devastation. I found out how all the houses in Culasi and Baybay areas were swept away by the storm surge. That was when fear really manifested inside my chest and I wept.
What will you do if you win the award? I have now dedicated this campaign, and pledged the P50,000 cash prize, to the victims of Super Typhoon Yolanda. That’s my share in recovering what we lost. I hope that my winning can rebuild a sense of hope and inspiration among our people. After all, that’s what I have always been trying to do in my fictional stories. Now, this is a true story of my campaign on the face of our national tragedy. It is my hope that I can show, by my own example, that by exactly doing more, by not giving up, we can still triumph. And sweeter is the victory if the people rally together as one… rally behind me, or some idea, or God, or some value that unites us as a people.
“An Arm Stretch of Sky” and “Sunlight on Broken Stones” in the “Great Philippine Jungle Energy Café” (2 of 2)
M
odified and updated version of a paper read during the Asia, Africa and Latin America (AALA) Literary Conference on “Globalization and Literature,” October 29-31, 2009, Incheon City, South Korea. “An Arm Stretch of Sky” is Cirilo F. Bautista’s translation of Amado V. Hernandez’s “Isang Dipang Langit” while “Sunlight on Broken Stones” is the last in the Trilogy of Saint Lazarus, a rewriting of our country’s history in an epic form by Cirilo F. Bautista, and “Great Philippine Jungle Energy Café” is the title of the award-winning novel by Alfred ‘Krip’ Yuson. The Filipino soul is haunted, says Filipino foremost scholar and critic Resil Mojares in “The Haunting of the Filipino Writer” in Waiting for Mariang Makiling:Essays in Philippine Cultural History (2002) due to the “shock, seduction, sin” of colonialism. Mojares suggests healing
appreciation of the particularities, nuances, and complexities of Kinaray-a and other Philippine languages for that matter, in our attempt to navigate within and beyond the constraints of our western-oriented and formal literary education. This is to say then that we have a living and dynamic literary traditions and practices. Our sugidanun is alive with our remaining prized chanters and community of Panay-Bukidnon, and in different contemporary literary and art forms -- in print, audio, visual, and digital media. In the spirit of “isang dipang langit” and “sunlight on broken stones,” may all these sharing and gathering bring us to more breadbreaking (ah, betel-chewing of our grandparents), production and publication-popularization, and of course, down the streets for reloaded protests toward our healing and maturation as a nation.
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METRO AGRICULTURE
November 17 -23, 2013
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Yolanda wrecks P100-M worth of agri in WV BY MONTESA GRIÑO-CAOYONAN An estimated P99.3 million worth of standing crops for rice, corn and other agricultural products were damaged by typhoon Yolanda that hit Western Visayas since Friday last week, confirmed by Department of Agriculture 6 (DA-6). Joyce Wendam, DA-6 regional technical director for planning research extension said around 17,384.55 hectares of riceland were damaged due of flood and strong winds. Wendam said Antique has the highest damaged with 12, 928 hectares followed by Iloilo with 2, 159, Aklan, 1, 193; and Negros, 1, 104.55.
She also said the estimated agricultural damages are expected to increase since the most affected province of Capiz has not yet submitted their situation reports. She added they are also waiting reports from Guimaras province. The technical director added that most affected rice production is on its vegetative and reproductive crop stages that could be subjected for recovery or replaced anytime when weather is already good. Wendam also said the yellow and white corn plantation also damaged a total of 2, 225.85 hectares. This
includes Iloilo with 830 hectares, Capiz, 732; Negros Occidental, 563.1; Aklan, 60.25, Guimaras, 40.5 while Antique has no report yet. Despite of damages, Wendam said the damage is still minimal and will not affect the total production of the region. She added they already activated their Command Action Center and they had advised all provincial agriculturist office to monitor the situation in their respective provinces even as typhoon Yolanda has left the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR). IMT
DA-6 urges farmers to shift into organic farming
BY MONTESA GRIÑO-CAOYONAN The Department of Agriculture 6 (DA-6) admitted that only few farmers in the region are now shifted into organic farming. Joyce Wendam, DA-6 regional technical director for planning research extension office said they are now into the process of convincing other farmers to go organic farming to save a lot of expenses especially in buying commercial fertilizers. Wendam stressed more benefits could be received in eating organic products which make us more healthy, strong, safe and affordable. Wendam said Negros Occidental has the highest number of farmers practicing organic farming among other provinces in Western Visayas.
She added the birth of organic farming has started in Negros Occidental because there are some farmers who already practicing organic farming even before the approval of Organic Agriculture Act of 2010 or Republic Act 10068 to decrease its cost production. In fact, the late Gov. Joseph Marañon tied up with Negros Oriental officials led by former Gov. George Arnaiz declared Negros as an “Organic Island” in 2005. Arnaiz is now congressman of the Second District. The director said they appreciated a lot the initiative given by the Negros Occidental provincial government and other LGUs in supporting the organic farming.
Under the Organic Agriculture Act, Local Government Units (LGUs) are encouraged to pass provincial/ municipal ordinances or resolutions specifying the participatory and bottom-up approach to grassroots organic agricultural programs. The DA shall provide technical assistance to the local technical working committees; work closely with the stakeholders and monitor organic agriculture project implementation. Wendam said the DA will extend fund support to LGUs that are planning to implement projects that are supportive of the Organic Agriculture Act. In the country, only 20 LGUs are now coming –up with their organic ordinances. IMT
An aerial view of the devastation of Typhoon Yolanda in the agriculture of Northern Iloilo.
NFA Iloilo assures ample rice supply for typhoon victims
NFA Iloilo Provincial Manager Marianito B. Bejemino assures the public that the agency has enough rice to supply the province especially for the victims of Typhoon Yolanda. “The NFA is ready and able to address the current situation of the province and we are prepared to issue the necessary rice stocks for relief operations.” PM Bejemino ensures the public. He added that there is no need to be alarmed when it comes to the supply of rice since the agency has enough stocks stored in their warehouses.
Furthermore, PM Bejemino stated that prices of rice in the market is continuously monitored by the provincial task force for any price surge due to the typhoon. To date, NFA Iloilo has already distributed a total of 6,525 bags of rice since November 8, 2013 for relief operations. It has also deployed a rolling store in the northern municipalities of Iloilo to sell NFA rice at Php 27.00/ kilo with a maximum of 5 kilos per family. It will also deploy another rolling store to cover a wider range starting today.
DA, Jaro Archdiocese launch organic farming complex Government and Church here have sealed their commitment for the advancement of organic farming with the launching of the P5-million Organic Production Complex at Bgy. Talibong, Zarraga, Iloilo. This partnership is between the Department of Agriculture-6 withe Director Larry Nacionales and the Jaro Archdiocesan Social Action Center (JASAC) SEED Foundation, led by its Executive Director, Msgr. Meliton Oso.
The DA-6 has funded P4 million for the project, P2.5 million from the High Value Crops Development Program and P1.5 million from the Agri-Business and Marketing Assistance Division. The JASAC, on the other hand, gave a counterpart of P1 million for the completion of the complex. The partners then initiated several projects which included a municipal food terminal, screen house facilities, organic fertilizer production plant
complex, greenhouse, post harvest facilities and farm mechanization as well as the social empowerment and enterprise development component. Jaro Archbishop Msgr. Angel Lagdameo led the blessing ceremony of the organic livestock building, multiple warehouse, the organic concoctions laboratory, seed bank, feed mill building, screen house and the staff house. Zarraga Mayor John Tarrosa and Director Nacionales said they were
grateful for the common commitment to organic agriculture. Nacionales said it is important to consider the symbiotic relationship of biotechnology in relation to society and the environment. JASAC SEED Foundation Project Leader Daniel del Rosario said it is their aim to promote the practice of organic agriculture as a way of nurturing a sustainable environment, production of affordable, healthy food and reduction of poverty among small
farmers and farming communities. He added that for the last 18 years, JASAC has invested in capacitybuilding, facilitating training on organic farming for more than 3,000 small farmers in Iloilo. Msgr. Oso also said that JASAC considers the moral dimension in business, on top of uplifting the lives of poor farmers and the agrarian reform beneficiaries through organic farming. (JCM/ESS/PIA-Iloilo)
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IBL
Iloilo Basketball Leauge
BY MARY PAULINE BALMES
METRO SPORTS
November 17 -23, 2013
Arida, Donaire’s Victory: A Glimmer of Hope
Despite the crisis that we are facing now, two Filipinos dedicated their respective endeavors to uplift the unconquerable Filipino spirit. Philippine’s representative to 62nd Miss Universe pageant Ariella Arida and the ‘Filipino Flash’ Nonito Donaire were able to lighten our heavy hearts as they conquered the world last Sunday in their victories. Arida placed Miss Universe 2013 3rd Runner–Up among the 86 participated countries which was held in Moscow, Russia while Donaire defeated Vic Darchinyan over a ninthround technical knockout on a nontitle fight in the United States. Prior the competition and the fight, Arida and Donaire offered their undertakings to the country and the Filipino people. In his official facebook account, Donaire posted: “Dedicating my fight to uplift the Filipinos spirits. Our indomitable spirit has been recognized WORLDWIDE, even by CNN. Keep faith, HE will not abandon us in our time of need. Continued prayers for the Earthquake and Typhoon victims”. Arida, on the other hand, have been very consistent in including the hashtag #ForThePhilippines in her Twitter and Instagram account. Minutes after their victories, the two also acknowledged the utmost support of their kababayans and thanked them for watching despite being saddened by the aftermath of the typhoon which happened two days before their competitions. “It wasnt MY win tonight, it was the PHILIPPINES win. We are strong and we have faith. Thank you Lord for keeping me safe, giving me a sound mind, helping me see what needed to be done. Thank you to the Archangels
Ariella Arida, Miss Universe 2013 3rd Runner-UP and especially all the fans and Filipinos who watched despite the typhoon. I have alot of work still to do but first I need to get the cheek xrayed for fracture and rest. God Bless!,” posted Donaire in his Facebook page.” “Can’t wait to go back and help our country! See you Philippines tomorrow!!” Arida expressed her
excitement in Twitter. Malacañang also recognized Arida and Doniare’s triumph thanking them for putting a smile on Filipinos’ faces, despite the unbelievable disaster brought by super Typhoon Yolanda. In a report of the Philippine News Agency (PNA), Deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte
Nonito ‘Filipino Flash’ Donaire congratulated Arida and Donaire. “Any sort of positive news would be very welcome and we extend our congratulations to Miss Arida and the Filipino Flash for excelling in their particular fields,” Valte said in a radio interview over State-run Radyo ng Bayan. “We appreciate the efforts to bring
a little bit of a smile to our countrymen who are going on so much in the aftermath of the typhoon. We have no doubt our citizens will get up and rise again. We’ve seen in the past that no matter how heavy the calamity is, we’ve always managed to pick ourselves up and get back to our normal lives,” Valte said. IMT
Feature news: SUMMARY OF TYPHOON YOLANDA
The darkest hours of Nov. 8
B Y R E Y M A R LATOZA The day of November 8 started calmly. Everybody woke up in a placid morning of Friday. The skies above were hushed, and the wind was so gentle. The streets were not in its usual noisy and grumpy condition. Most of the establishments were closed, including malls, banks, restaurants and shops. People knew she was coming. They prepared and thousands left their houses. Classes in all levels as well as works in both public and private institutions were suspended. Flights and other trips were postponed. Iloilo was under storm signal number 4. The entire country was on high alert. The dramatic change occurred, as the so called ‘Yolanda’ got nearer. The ‘most powerful’ and the ‘strongest’ typhoon wasn’t really felt by many, until she made her first landfall. The super typhoon ‘Yolanda’ or ‘Haiyan’ (International name) arrived, and it was worse than expected. She was wicked. She was dreadful. She was merciless. Her fury wrecked houses and knocked down trees and electrical poles. The tremendous blow of deadly wind brought havoc and agony to lots of families who are homeless and helpless now. According to a 36-year-old survivor of Barangay Lumbia in the town of Estancia, Iloilo,his end of world-like experience in the midst of typhoon surge was incomparable. Jerry Valencia, no permanent work, witnessed how their house and other houses were destroyed by ‘Yolanda’. “The whoop of wind was terrifying, I knew it was strong, but what happened was beyond my expectation. The tin roof sheets were flying and the walls fell down. It was like the end of the world that no one will survive,” he told IMT News team. He added that their crops like corn, cassava, sugarcane, and others were destroyed. “The typhoon left us nothing. We will really have to start from the scratch,” he said. When the dawn faded, the situation worsened as the level of floodwater rose in some areas. The entire province of Iloilo experienced total black out due to power outage. No lights. The darkness reigned. People were terribly worried, more worried before the nightfall. At 5 p.m., the typhoon was already on its way out of Panay, according to PAGASA. The gust of wind became at ease. The pour of rain weakened. The situation was moving back to normal. The floodwater however started to lash other houses, crops, and even animals were defenseless. The level of water from rivers and seas went up and over flown. It wiped out the communities especially in the coastal areas. Friday midnight, the moon and stars came into view as if nothing happened. They dimly lighted the devastation left by super typhoon ‘Yolanda’. It was calm again, but it was apart from ordinary. The catastrophe had passed, but the darkest hours in the day of November 8 are still disturbing victims. A 51-year-old evacuee from Barangay Banban, Batad whose house was totally damaged said that “What happened was unforgettable. It left a painful wound and it will take time for us to recover and say it’s normal again.” A day after the wrath of ‘Yolanda’, the awful damages became clear. The view is heart breaking. The situation is so hurtful to describe. People have no houses to live. No food to eat. No potable water to drink. They are suffering. Power and communication were completely down. Some roads became impassable because several trees along the road fell down and water had overflown. Landslide also occurred. Aside from houses, and other structures, many lives were also swept by typhoon ‘Yolanda’. Some were drowned, some were attacked by stroke, some were hit by tin roof sheet, and some were due to hypothermia. The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management (PDRRMC), as of the press time, recorded 189 casualties and still rising. Ten were missing and 165 were injured. Furthermore, a total of 854 barangays in 41 munipalities was affected. 160,787 composed of 723,479 persons were affected. 78, 962 houses were totally damaged, and 55,526 were partially damaged. Almost all coastal barangays were flattened. All bancas (fishing boats) motorized and non-motorized were destroyed. Estimated cost of damaged in infrastructure and agriculture in the region 6 amounted to P150,115,161.13 and P182,231,190.00 respectively. Oil spill also hit the town of Estancia after strong waves hammered the power barge of NAPOCOR. According to Philippines Coast Guard, it was already contained after implementing preventive measures to stop the spreading of oil. The 5th district of or the northern part of Iloilo was greatly devastated. It is composed of Estancia, Concepcion, Sara, Carles, Ajuy, Batad, Barotac Viejo, San Dionisio, San Rafael and Balasan. Other municipalities including Passi City also need help and assistance after slammed by the said typhoon. November 9, the province of Iloilo was placed under state of calamity. Prior to this, the towns of Janiuay and Dumanggas declared state of calamity. In consonance to this, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and Department of Health (DOH) had issued price freeze of local commodities and medicines to the Local Government Units (LGUs). November 11, President Benigno Aquino III declared Philippines under state of national calamity. Meanwhile, The Iloilo Provincial Government and other government agencies as well as civil groups have been active in conducting relief operations to help typhoon victims. The Iloilo City government also pledged to give financial assistance to all badly hit areas. According to Dr. Flaviana Hilario, acting deputy director for R&D of PAGASA, Super typhoon Yolanda is the strongest typhoon in the world in 2013. The Super typhoon made landfall in its peak. In a report of Reuter, Jeff Masters, director of meteorology at U.S.-based Weather Underground said that the super typhoon made landfall with winds near 195 mph. This makes Haiyan or Yolanda the strongest tropical cyclone on record to make landfall.” The world’s strongest recorded typhoon, cyclone or hurricane to make landfall was Hurricane Camille in 1969, which hit the southern U.S. state of Mississippi with 305 kph (190 mph) winds, said Weather Underground’s Masters. An average of 20 typhoons hit the Philippines every year. Last year, Typhoon Bopha flattened three towns on Mindanao, killed 1,100 people and caused damages of more than $1 billion. Haiyan is the second category 5 typhoon to hit the Philippines this year after Typhoon Usagi in September. (Sources: PNA/ Reuters, CNN, GMA News, AFP, Rappler,PAGASA, DOST,DA, DPWH, PDRRMC, Iloilo) IMT (We would like to credit the owners of the photos used in the collage above: Dr. Raul Banias, JM Mejorada, JP Peñol, June Dale Lozada and IMT’s Reymar Latoza)