Cagayan de Oro Times (May 1-7, 2013 Issue)

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Your Weekly Lifestyle Newspaper

Vol. 1 | No. 39 | Cagayan de Oro City | May 1-7, 2013

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Sta. Cruz Chico. Photo by Mike Baños

Pretty in Pink:

The Mystical Sta. Cruz Islands of Zamboanga Story on page 8

Search for PH’s best agriculture stories and photos launched Christine H. Cabiasa correspondent

T

his year’s search for best agriculture stories through Bright Leaf Agriculture Journalism Awards of 2013 is now officially opened.

David Isaac Buenaventura, project director of Cozoz, Inc. in a statement said that the award honors the best agriculture stories and photos in tri-media across the country and the competition

has become the most anticipated celebration of the country’s best agriculture journalists.

Bright Leaf on its 7th year continues to seek out the best published agriculture stories in print, radio, and television emphasizing special attention on their impact on current agricultural issues and best farming practices on environmental safety and crop sustainability.

The award encompasses two categories, the minor and major. For the minor category, it includes best agriculture TV program/segment, best agriculture radio program/ segment, best agriculture news story (national and regional level), and best agriculture feature story (national and regional).

SEARCH|Page 11

POLL WATCH

Villar hails gov’t-MILF agreement for clean, orderly polls in M’danao

NACIONALISTA Party-Team PNoy senatoria l candidate and former Las Pinas Rep. Cynthia Villar today hailed the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) to ensure clean, honest, and peaceful midterm elections, said it was a positive indication that peace and political stability was forthcoming in Mindanao.

“This is a giant step in our efforts to pursue a just and lasting settlement to end the age-old conflict in Mindanao,” said Villar. “As I would always say, CLEAN|Page 11

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Mr. David Isaac Buenaventura, project director for 7th Bright Leaf Journalism Awards led the press briefing on April 29 at Mallberry Business Hotel. Photo by Christine Cabiasa

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Success within reach... ...When you believe (The Nutratech Global Inc. mileage to feat) Christine H. Cabiasa and Queenie Joy T. Faelnar

BELIEVE. A strong one word yet million thoughts have been pondered and million lives have been changed.

For the first time in my career as a student journalist, I have interviewed a man whose aspirations and hopes are bounded and anchored on that word. And mind you, that was a business talk supposed to be but it became a food-for-the-soul business-oriented tête-à-tête.

Mr. Jethro Steve T. Franco, Nutratech Global Inc., hub owner shares something he truly treasures not just on being a businessman but on how to succeed by being a businessman driving his ship on faith.

Mr. Franco is a Nursing graduate yet aimed to get more that’s why he ventured into virtual franchising or networking. He owns St. Louis Review Center in Pagadian City but that doesn’t stop there, he chose to invest to Nutratech.

According to Mr. Franco, when you are into networking, you have to believe that the business will grow. “I believed, with this faith, it did”.

When asked who he was before he endeavoured into it, he simply replied, “a businessman who believes in Him” and when asked who he is now, still the same answer.

As many say, when you are into networking, patience and passion must be poured as one.

Patience for you does not know who will come in, that patience anchored on your eagerness to earn.

Of course, you will market for it; you have to double your time for you to achieve what you want. On the other hand, it calls for passion; one’s passion to sell his or her products heartily. That passion in which one can say that “I’m not fooling them and I’m not taking advantage over them”. Well, patience and passion indeed for your network to reproduce.

Mr. Jethro Steve T. Franco, Nutratech Global Inc., hub owner When asked what his message to aspiring networkers is, Mr. Franco said, “Just believe and have faith”. Yet take note, faith must not be only live up with, it must be bound also with hard work, faith is a prize but faith plus hard work, is a reward.

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A combination of all the essential nutrients put all together in one soup. Perfect Meal is filled with nutrients and vitamins for family’s everyday needs thus will result to a more vigorous and healthy body perfected with an enticing taste that will surely delight your everyday diet.

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“Total well-being just as nature planned”.

Perfect Plus is a superfood supplement that contains vegetables, fruits, vitamins, and superherbs.

Everything you need for perfect wellness is here. You can even acquire full benefits for the total wellbeing of your heart health, immune enhancement, stress protection, cellular wellness, ultimate systemic support, skin and beauty, anti-aging, memory and focus, muscles, bones and joints, detoxification, and digestion.

For a total wellness, join Nutratech Global Inc. now and see the difference.

For further details, contact Mr. Stewart Dychauco at 09152821888.

Summer Peace Festival 2013 launched

Anyone can be an advocate for peace but not that all can promote peace through music.

Christine H. Cabiasa

M

indanao has indeed a lot to offer, from its God-endowed natural resources to its human facets gif t ed with extraordinary talents.

N o w, M i n d a n a o h a s changed its image, as they say, from a “terrorist bound” region to a “tourist bound” destination, and that’s our pride. It has maximized its people for the good of its people also. One thing to boast of, there are individuals who believe in the power of “change” through music and productive festivities, thus launched the 2013 Summer Peace Festival (SPF).

SPF 2013 organized by Good Karma productions, Muni Events and Productions and the Ministry of Mushrooms

productions has now extended its legs aimed at widening the “influence of peace” in Northern Mindanao region and on its second year now bumps to its feat for environment conservation through music hoisting Talakag, Bukidnon specifically Ki Bathala Gardens, Sitio Balaon for Luna Musikalawaig.

Ms. Jeminah Ferrer, one of the organizers said that the event came to life as they want to promote peace in Mindanao, boost its arts and culture and eco-tourism in which the world wants to

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Billy Bonnevie, one of the performing artist for this year’s Summer Peace Festival at Talakag showcased his “natural mystic jam” through the “gong” instrument.

Photo by christine cabiasa

see and to take pride for the local artists who will perform in the festivals. “Since we are one with the nature, we don’t want that what happened to us during typhoon Sendong will happen again”.

This year’s theme Luna Musikalawaig was coined from “luna” which means “full moon”, believed to bring life to the dark night and the beginning of the festival; “musika” which means “music”, heard to unite people of different languages, religion, and ethnicity; and “kalawaig” refers to the name of the river that runs through the vicinity.

“This is also targets to our call on peace among men, peace with nature, and peace with oneself as the threshold of our advocacies aside from promoting Mindanao”, Ferrer said.

Activities held were forest exploration, workshops on

soil painting, lessons for flow camps, yoga sessions, fire dancing, tree planting, and concert for a cause.

“The lined up activities highlighted the concert for a cause as the performing artists sang out our advocacies t h ro u g h t h eir own m u sic compositions for the nature”, Ferrer said.

International artists and performers from Sweden, Germany and Hawaii graced the festivity also. “We have invited international artists because we believed that they can help, and in one way or another, others will change their perception about Mindanao since foreigners have promoted it”, Ferrer stressed.

Siri Svegler, performing artist from Germany said that SPF is a good avenue PEACE|Page 11

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May 1-7, 2013

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5 start-up ideas this summer from Sun Business

S

ummer is here!

Temperature rises to unbearable levels, school’s out for the students, and more people are heading out of town to visit their favorite beaches.

While the season calls for rest and relaxation, it’s also an ideal time and opportunity to earn some extra cash.

Need to boost your income? Here are five

ideas for extra income that you can start this summer, only from Sun Business, the corporate solutions arm of Sun Cellular. And since these businesses do not require huge capital, you can start any of these easily.  Sell cold refreshments. You know how it can get scorching hot outside when summer arrives. Satisfy the need of people to cool down by

selling cold refreshments like soft drinks, ice cream and halo-halo. These wellloved Filipino cold treats can sell like pancakes under the heat of this season.  Sell summer wear and accessories.

Buy and sell beachwear like swimsuits, shorts, slippers and other beach accessories. You can even utilize the internet to advertise and sell your products. Or do you have

any summer items at home that you want to get rid of?

Put these items on sale!  Offer tours and travel services. If you’re a travel junkie who likes to organize activities, then arranging tours for a cost might be for you.

Start offering the travel service to your friends and relatives first by calling or texting them through your Sun-powered mobile phone.

Then gradually build your

MyPhone the Country's Number 1 Mobile Phone Brand recently signed a partnership agreement with Carousel Production for its 2013 Search for the next Ms. Philippines!

Ms. Philippines Pageant is the local search for the country's representative for the Annual Ms. Earth Pageant.

In the picture are Mr. Jaime Alcantara - President, Ms. Lorraine Shuck - Vice President of Carousel Production and Mr. Richie de Quina - Vice President of MyPhone with the Ms. Philippine Candidates.

Ms. Philippines coronation night will be on the 19th of May 2013 at the MOA Arena in Pasay City.

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network of clients from there. Maximize the use of internet also for research, bookings and advertising your services.  Hold summer classes. What are you really good at that you can teach others? Art? Cooking?

School’s out and the kids are probably just cooped up in their houses. So why not add something to their learning this summer, while doing the thing you love and getting paid?  Be an online load retailer. Selling Sun loads is an opportunity for extra income, as there are millions of Sun subscribers nationwide.

Take advantage of it this season with the easiest pro-profit solution from Sun Business – Onlinegosyo.

This service allows you to sell Sun prepaid and broadband loads using any computer with internet connection. No application and monthly fee needed. To start Onlinegosyo, simply bring your valid ID at any The Sun Shop nationwide.

Make the most out of this summer! Be productive and find opportunities on how you can have fun while earning some extra cash on the side this season.

For more information about Sun Business Onlinegosyo service, visit www.sunbusiness.com.ph, call the Sun Business 24/7 hotline (02) 395-8PRO (776) or visit any The Sun Shop today.

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| May 1-7, 2013

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Labor Day Job Fair at SM SM City Cagayan de Oro will hold a Job Fair with more than 80 local and overseas companies to offer employment on Wednesday, May 1 from 10am to 5pm at the Ground Floor of the SM Carpark Building.

In cooperation with the Department of Labor and Employment (DoLE) and Cagayan de Oro City Public Employment Services Office (PESO), this

6th Labor Day Job Fair will bring more than 80 employers at the mall to offer local and overseas career opportunities to Kagay-anons.

The Labor Day job fair, which will be held simultaneously across 46 SM malls nationwide, aims to lessen the inconveniences of job seekers and help as many people as possible find

employment especially during this time of unprecedented global challenges.

SM Supermalls, the largest mall operator in the Philippines, has served as a catalyst in creating employment and business opportunities in all areas where they are located, and this job fair is one way SM can do its share for the community and the country as a whole.

Tips to avoid heat stroke this summer Queenie Joy Faelnar Liceo U MassComm Intern

“Ah, summer, what power you have to make us suffer”?

HOT. The trending word when summer season begins where everyone feels the heat and pain it caused. Notwithstanding the warm sensation it brings, numerous individuals are looking forward to this special climate. It is the time for traveling and visiting several tourist spots in particular the beaches, especially for the students due to their summer vacation.

Without the knowledge of some, summer brings heat stroke. Heat stroke or otherwise known as Sunstroke is defined as a body temperature of greater than 40.6 °C or 105.1°f due to environmental heat exposure with lack of thermoregulation.

Heat stroke presents with a hyperthermia in combination with confusion and a lack of sweating. It is a medical crisis, which can be fatal if not treated properly.

It is the outcome from prolonged exposure to high temperatures, in association with dehydration, which leads to failure of the body’s temperature control system.

Complications may involve the central nervous system. Symptoms include nausea, seizures, confusion, disorientation, and sometimes loss of consciousness or coma.

According to Cagayan de Oro Weather Forecast, Cagayanons now experience high temperature which may rise from 33 degrees Celsius to 36 degrees Celsius in the next three months. Normally before, the temperature during summer is 28°C, and less heat stroke cases.

Due to this condition, the Department of Health warned the Filipinos to avoid too much exposure from the heat of the sun.

To avoid Heat Stroke, the DOH provides tips on how to prevent it.

First things first, drink at least 13 glasses of water every day. Avoid drinking teas, coffee, and alcoholic beverages that could result to dehydration.

Avoid sun exposure between 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM daily, where the warmest temperatures are usually experienced.

Stay at home as much as possible. Do regular exercise and other outdoor activities either early morning or after sunset. Wear lightweight, light colored, loose-fitting clothing, and a wide-brimmed hat.

It is indeed exhilarating all through summer because of the exciting activities it can offer. Sun bathing to make your skin tan, resting on the sand beside the shoreline, and cooling during vacations, of course under the heat of the sun. Very fun, but very dangerous, it might cause death.

There are many ways to enjoy the summer, just be resourceful for the protection of everybody.

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Cong Rufus Rodriguez pushes budget increase of NHA-10

During the recent Regional Development Council-X (RDC-X) Full Council Meeting (March 12, 2013) and RDC-X Advisory Committee Meeting (March 19, 2013), numerous Resolutions were passed thru the efforts of Cong Rufus Rodriguez which all aim to benefit Cagayan de Oro City.

One of which is RAC Resolution No. 13 (s.2013) endorsing the amended proposed budget of the National Housing Authority Regional Office X. Typhoon Sendong is the worst tragedy that Cagayan de Oro City ever experienced and until today, there are still affected families who are in temporary relocation sites. One of the main government agencies instrumental in the recovery of the thousands of victims is the National Housing Authority.

They provided the city with thousands of houses in permanent relocation sites for the victims of Sendong. And for them to continue

doing their mandated task, it is imperative that they be given a budget for 2014 which will ensure that their projects for Cagayan de Oro City be completed.

The National Housing Authority Regional Office X proposed a budget for FY 2014 of P3.886 billion pesos.

However, Cong Rodriguez believes that this is not enough and he has moved for the increase of the National Housing Authority Regional Office X budget by P1 billion to be broken down as follows: P91.939 million for personal services, P55.693 million for MOOE, P13.099 million for capital outlay, and P4.725 billion for other funding requirements.

Cong Rodriguez believes that the new proposed budget of P4.886 billion will be needed by the National Housing Authority Regional Office X for its housing resettlement/development projects in Cagayan de Oro City for those affected by typhoon Sendong.

May 1-7, 2013

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CDO holds body building tilt

Ian Gesta

The Cagayan de Oro Classic body building competition ended on a high note, April 27at Divisoria, Cagayan de Oro City.

It was organized by O2 Power Hauz and in cooperation with Business Week Mindanao Group of Publications.

Twenty four body builders from all over the Philippines competed.

The competition ran for two phases, the novice class category and the open class category.

Both categories include the comparison and the pose down.

Each contestant had the chance to showcase its muscular physique in their individual performances.

The board of judges which consisted of national and international winners in body building chose top 6 participants in both categories.

Subsequently in the Novice class, Leo Totne (Duplexx Fitness Center) was hailed champion whereas Legen Gungob (Pelaez Sports Complex Gym) landed as 1st runner-up and Miel Bryan Cayman (O2 Power Hauz) as 2nd runner-up.

Moreover, three body builders were hailed as the best in the open class category which are Sandy Bontuyan (Manila) as this year’s champion, Albin Remitares (Manila) as 1st runner-up and Johnald Romero (Manila) as 2nd runner-up.

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Re-quote:

coffee break Crispin Dannug

Watershed The watershed area of Cagayan de Oro is not much. It is more or less 2,000 sq. km., if my estimate is correct.

Based on a relief map, the watershed is rimmed by the sparsely forested foothills close to Dahilayan near Mt. Kitanglad in the south, the sloping plains of Malitbog down to Jasaan in the east which is also drained by the mighty Pulangi River, the fertile arc from Talacag to Alubijid in the west, and the Macajalar Bay area in the north where the thriving barangays of Bonbon, Bayabas and Dalahican are drained by the rampaging Cagayan river and the smaller Iponan during the monsoon.

What accounts for the presence of a watershed? What's so important about the Cagayan de Oro watershed that should challenge our imagination and spur us to action?

Current usage speaks of the water

divide or drainage systems of the natural environment.

This is the European definition.

In North America, it is called the watershed, which consists of the river system, the catchment areas, and the valleys through which the water empties itself into the sea.

The watershed is only active and, therefore, viable in the presence of water.

Rainwater that is absorbed by the forest and vegetative outgrowth unites with the underground water system.

Excess water seeks the various waterways, streams and riverines and is deposited to the sea via the major river arteries.

The headwaters in the bosom of the mountain springs and streams can dry up through prolonged drought or a dry spell.

This would greatly affect the viability of agricultural production, water-use and the quality of fisheries

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CAGAYAN TIMES Publisher

RONALD MASTAIL Associate Editor | Art Director CHRISTINE CABIASA Correspondent NELSON CONSTANTINO JOE DEL PUERTO FELICILDA RUEL PELONE ALLAN MEDIANTE CHENG ORDONEZ Editorial Consultants John del Bando Sales & Marketing Director PINKY DOMINGO CADAVEDO Marketing Executive ATTY. MARIO T. JUNI ATTY. ROBERTO A. CANTAGO, JR. Legal Counsels The CAGAYAN de ORO TIMES newspaper is published weekly at FICCO Bldg., Lapasan Hi-way, with the editorial office at Tanleh Bldg., Abellanosa St., Cagayan de Oro City. It is registered with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 10 with Certificate No. 01801884, and with Business Permit No. 17211 with TIN No. 311-982-549-000 Find us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/CagayandeOroTIMES email us at Editorial: thecagayantimes@gmail.com Advertising: cagayantimes@yahoo.com.ph

�

~Rita J. Maggart on feeding ground in bays and quays.

But the big river that forms the valleys stands as the major feature for the watershed's viability since it reduces flooding, compels wise use of the water for irrigation, and for home and industrial use.

However, any structure that impedes the smooth drainage of the river water to the sea can have disastrous results. The Sendong calamity is a case in point.

On the other hand, denudation of tree and vegetative resources upriver, and in the case of Cagayan de Oro, the areas north of Besigan in Talakag can also have disastrous results.

The growing tourism industry anchored on white water rafting, not to mention the viability of fishing downstream in the Macajalar area can be greatly impaired.

A total economic meltdown due to drying up of the watershed is too

grim to contemplate.

The lessons of the flood are there, but a dry-up scenario can show us what to do to preserve the contingent integrity of the watershed.

The city of dreams and golden friendships sits astride and ensconced on this pretty watershed.

Any comprehensive socio-economic planning for this for the next 20 years must feature the protection, enhancement and conservation of the watershed.

A combination of good politicians and responsive, far-reaching policies is considered a boon to the community.

This equation can impact on this plan. A viable code of good housekeeping for this watershed resource must be spelled out.

The integrity of the ecosystem cannot be compromised nor compensated by high socio-economic growth.

ALA MODE OWEN JAEN

The Candy Crush Connection

ROSE MARY D. SUDARIA, Ph.D. General Manager SHAUN ALEJANDRAE YAP UY Editor-in-Chief

“

One act of love is worth more than a million words of love.

I can still vividly recall the moment when I gave in to the addiction.

It was days before the Holy Week that I finally succumb to the world's newest craze Candy Crush.

I really thought it was just a game for dweebs and losers but eventually as I progressed I realized this is more than just eye candy.

Aside from Candy Crush's interesting game levels, the connection to your friends on Facebook adds extra fun.

My friends whom I have not been in touch for some time on the social networking site suddenly appear on my notifications and I welcome

these updates.

The game became our jumpoff point to catching up with each other's lives and how we are doing both in the game level and in real life.

Although others post their annoyance when being asked for a ticket or extra life on their Facebook accounts but for me, I always give in to their request and never really expect them to return the favor but if they do, good for me too!

My high school friends and some I have met way back years ago share our candy crush experiences online and off and laugh at the idea that a game became the reason for us to bond once again.

So far, this is one interactive game that I am hooked on for weeks now and although I no longer stay glued for hours trying to advance on the levels, I still make it a point to open the app on my ipad and play.

The game makes a good exercise on strategy and quick thinking.

I do not know when this sugar rush from the game will last but like any other digital game it has an end and as I see it, it might take a few more months before Candy Crush fizzles but for now I am enjoying the game and the connections I make.

Divine!

READ !

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SUPER BRANDING harry tambuatco

HEALTH IN FOCUS

Dr. Mary Jean Loreche

May 1-7, 2013

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The Financial Doctor Dr. Adonis Agcopra MBA, RFC®

Aspiration Gone Awry: A Case of Trademark Infringement A lighting brand that was never qualified to be a Superbrand and will never be, but aspires to be, despite a court action, is what trademark infringement is all about.

Sometime in 2005, Superbrand Marketing International, Inc. (SMI) published its Volume V. Akari, which produces electrical lighting products, aspired to be awarded as a “Superbrand”.

It was of the impression they signed up to be a Superbrand only to realize they signed on to a bogus corporation not authorized by SMI. In fact, the very same group that duped Akari was the defendant in a court case filed in Hong Kong by Superbrands Ltd. which settled in a compromise agreement wittingly.

Interestingly enough, realizing that their lighting brand was never registered in the Superbrands program, Akari nevertheless insisted on using the international award seal for close to six years, though it never really qualified to be a Superbrands.

When finally (and officially) invited to participate, Akari decided to decline the invitation while slyly and silently removing from the marketing shelves its packaging, which showed the international Superbrands award seal.

This must have been a costly strategy. Instead of legitimizing its use of the Superbrands trademark, this company instead dealt with a forked tongue.

While it is almost unaffordable to participate in the Superbrands program for most, brands should never advertise that they are a Philippine Superbrand when they simply don’t quality.

The perennial question we ask is, “Do you have what it takes to be a Superbrand?”

To this date the brand was never authorized to use the award seal. Nevertheless, they used it for six long years, duping the public into thinking that they are a Superbrand.

In fact, there is a pending case with the Intellectual Property Office against this lighting brand for trademark infringement and unfair competition.

The brand was never in any of the biennial books published by Superbrands since Volume V (2005 to present day) nor in any of the Certificate Award events. It was never invited to any formal gala Tribute night, where the qualified Superbrands were formally awarded with their trophies.

It is interesting to note how brands persist in unfair competition and trademark infringement only to promote what they are not. The aspirational value ofAkari is not surprising.

Many, many brands ask to join the Superbrand program, but very few can qualify.

In serving and protecting the public, it is a fact that Akari was never a Superbrand and will never qualify to be one. Misrepresentation to the public is an offense that must be dealt with accordingly.

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That Funny Look n’ Feeling A patient friend called up and was in a panic mode: she complained of stiffness and pain on the left side of her face, and when she looked at the mirror, she noticed that her face on the left side seemed to droop.

So, I told her to come and see me so I can look at it. I could just imagine what a scare it is, when, upon waking up and on looking at yourself in the mirror you find that the beautiful/ handsome face isn’t the same!

The nerve that controls the movement of the muscles in the face, facial expressions like smiling, grimace or frowning, eye blinking and closing, even with the lubrication of the eyes (through the lacrimal glands) is the facial or 8th nerve. The facial nerve also has a say on the taste sensation.

Thus, should there be problems affecting the 8th nerve, these functions are compromised. We call the disorder as Bell’s Palsy. Though, it is a temporary event, that can affect both men and women, of any age group, it is kind of distressing really.

Bell’s Palsy or facial nerve paralysis can occur when there is nerve compression or, when the 8th nerve is inflamed or swollen.

Going back to this patient friend, when I interviewed her, all she ever recalled was that, she went river rafting few days prior to its occurrence.

She was thrown off the raft and must have hit one side of her head into the onrushing waters.

Trauma and viral infections, with herpes zoster or even the influenza virus are known to predispose one to having Bell’s Palsy.

Symptoms actually vary. It can be mild or severe, and can start suddenly. The face will feel stiff, giving one that funny, weird feeling, or the face is pulled to one side, looking different.

Others may have difficulty closing one eye, or there may be twitching. Eating and drinking may be difficult as food or liquid intake will have the tendency to spill over the side of the mouth.

The eyes will feel dry, and the patient may have headaches, twitching, loss of appetite. Any of the above symptoms may be present and usually, will resolve also on its own, although, I have encountered cases wherein the symptoms persist for a month or two.

It is a known fact that if one did not lose all the nerve functions and the symptoms begin to improve in less than a month, that, the patient is likely to regain the strength of his/her muscles more easily than one whose symptoms are prolonged and more severe in nature.

A very good history of the patient’s illness, coupled with complete physical examination including neurologic tests will clinch the diagnosis.

At times, our neurologist friends may request for a CT Scan or an MRI if he/she thinks that the cause of the nerve paralysis is a space occupying lesion like a tumor.

Treatment is directed towards the alleviation of the symptoms: paracetamol or mefenamic acid for the fever or headache or pain.

There are Doctor friends who may also prescribe steroids to address the swelling or inflammation of the nerve.

It is important too, to follow the advice of one’s attending physician especially if therapeutic exercises are recommended.

All in all, the prognosis or outlook for Bell’s Palsy is good.

Investing With Managed Funds: Part 3 The investment pyramid concept provides an effective overview of all investment instruments available at your disposal, with particular emphasis to their overall profiles in terms of risk, return, and liquidity considerations.

Revisiting the investment pyramid, we get a glimpse of the importance of keeping a balanced investment portfolio. Having foundational investment strategies that preserve your capital keeps your pyramid in a stable state.

A pyramid with a firm and stable base gives you a better foothold to grab incidental opportunities offered by higher-yield, higherrisk investments in the upper levels without having to sacrifice your financial stability.

Comfortably positioned in the middle of the investment pyramid, managed funds give you a balanced risk, return, and liquidity leverage.

But do managed funds such as mutual funds offer you any additional advantage? Here are a few of the more important ones to begin with.

Managed funds are liquid – there is easy recovery of your cash should the need arise. You also get the advantage of instant diversification.

In contrast to direct stock investing, with equity funds you get to purchase a basket of stocks with the same invested amount.

This provides you the unique setup of indirectly managing and spreading your levels of exposure to investment risk.

Since your individual resources are pooled with that of several other investors, you harness the collective investing power and strength of the entire group.

Thus, a managed fund strategy can take you directly to the securities markets, which is usually available only to a few select investors with large investible funds.

With certain mutual fund companies allowing you an investment account opening with as little as PhP5,000, this strategy can even be affordable to individuals in the lower income groups.

If you are that type of investor who doesn't have enough luxury of time to actively track volatility issues in stock trading, then managed funds might suit you better.

With professionally trained investment analysts and fund managers doing the legwork in a dynamic market, you can perhaps worry a little less and attend to other more pressing matters.

Furthermore, with proper regulations now in place, you can have more peace of mind.

In the case of mutual fund companies which are regulated by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), these investments are now more transparent, have detailed prospectuses and disclosure proceedings, and with a custodian bank in place.

With a recently upgraded Philippine economy on the upswing, managed fund investing could be one of your greatest opportunities to ride the prosperity wave.

Investigate before you invest, and make your money work for you. Do it now!

(Dr. Adonis Agcopra is a registered international financial strategic consultant with IARFC and is portfolio director of AFIC Meridian Consultants.

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Feature

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Pretty in Pink:

The Mystical Sta. Cruz Islands of Zamboanga

Sama Bangingi graves in their ancestral Sta. Cruz Grande burial grounds

Mike Baños

O

ne of the most famous landmarks of Zamboanga City is a pair of coral islands barely four kilometers from downtown Zamboanga City.

According to my grade school classmate Icelle D. Borja, now a historical researcher specializing in Zamboanga lore, “the islands were named Santa Cruz because they lie in the crossroads on the way to the Moluccas (Spice Islands) when the Spaniards first mapped out the two isles on April 6, 1598.

“My archival research led me to a rare Spanish Survey Map of Zamboanga dated c (1885) with Serial Doc. No. 280 571 No. 1831 showing the Town of Zamboanga with the two Santa Cruz Islands of Zamboanga City. The big Sta. Cruz island lies directly below a cross based on their Map,” Ms. Borja writes in an article posted in Zamboanga.com.

Officially known as the Great (Sta. Cruz Grande) and Little Sta. Cruz (Sta. Cruz Chico) Islands Protected Landscape and Seascape, the 1,877 hectare (4,640 acres) was officially declared a protected area by the Protected Areas and Wildlife Bureau (PAWB) of the Department of the Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) through Proclamation No. 271 on April 23, 2000. (PAWB).

VILLAR GETS SUPPORT OF CATHOLIC GROUPS - Misis Hanepbuhay Cynthia Villar receives blessing from Fr. Leonardo Polinar, head of National Shepherd Servant Communities, after she was officially endorsed by the Catholic Conscience Vote Phils. (CCVP) as one of their senatorial bets in May 13 elections in a gathering at Maypajo, Caloocan City. The CCVP, which has 600 allied Catholic communities and organizations nationwide, is expected to deliver no less than 1.7 million votes. Also endorsed by the CCVP are Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV (represented by his Chief of Staff, Atty. Rey Robles), former Senator Migz Zubiri (represented by his wife, Audrey Zubiri), Sen. Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III and Ang Kapatiran senatorial candidates, Mar Llasos, Lito David and JC delos Reyes (not in photo).

Red tube coral makes the sand pink in Sta. Cruz Grande

Earlier, the late President Ferdinand Marcos declared the two islands as a National Park (P.D. #654 issued Feb. 4, 1975) including its foreshore and ancient Muslim burial grounds. P.D.#1801 issued on Nov. 10, 1978 further declared the area as a tourist zone and marine reserve under the Philippine Tourism Authority (PTA) now known as the TIEZA (Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority).

Tourism and airline officials have organized trips by travel writers from Cagayan de Oro and Zamboanga to benchmark the new air route between the two cities established by Cebu Pacific Air late last year.

PINK|Page 10

The CAGAYAN de ORO TIMES

Catholic Conscience Vote Phils. (CCVP) officially endorses the candidacy of Misis Hanepbuhay Cynthia Villar, Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV (represented by his Chief of Staff, Atty. Rey Robles), former Senator Migz Zubiri (represented by his wife, Audrey Zubiri), Sen. Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III and Ang Kapatiran senatorial candidates, Mar Llasos, Lito David and JC delos Reyes (not in photo) in the coming senatorial elections.

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Farmers’ cooperative receives assistance from DA-HVCDP, BSWM VANESSA MAE S. SIANO DA-RAFID 10 Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental – Anc hored at creating a stronger partnership with agri-stakeholders in attaining the government’s bid on food self sufficiency and in support to the promotion of the Organic Agriculture Act of 2011, the Department of Agriculture-10 through its High Value Crops Development Program (DA-HVCDP) supports the Lanzones Growers of Gingoog in Action (LANGGA) Producers Cooperative in the rehabilitation and expansion of their Farmers Organic Center (FOC).

The project was realized through a cost-sharing scheme wherein P 250,000 was provided by DA-HVCDP for the establishment of vermished, 3 (1x10m) vermi-beds and provision of 4 fabricated steel vermi-beds. Meanwhile, t h e L A N G G A P ro d u c e r s Cooperative also provided P 50,000 as their equity in the form of labor.

The FOC is LANGGA’s flagship project established in 2010 which produces organic fertilizers for sale to members and non-members of the cooperative for only P300 per

bag. The rehabilitation of the FOC doubles the production capacity from 100 bags to 200 bags every two months, with increase earnings from P 30,000 to P 60,000 per harvest. This will encourage local farmers to venture on this business and support organic farming.

Furthermore, the Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM) through the Expanded Modified Rapid Composting Project has provided organic shredder with separator and two compost tea brewers to the members of the LANGGA. With this equipment, processing of organic materials into s u b s t ra t e i s e a s i e r a n d ve r m i c a s t p ro d u c t i o n i s efficient.

The FOC’s inauguration was held on April 18, 2013 headed by HVCDP Regional Program Coordinator Chedy V. Ansale and Engr. Armando B. Arcamo, Regional Soils and Water Area Coordinator of BSWM with the representatives from the local government unit of Gingoog City, Provincial Agriculturist Office of Misamis Oriental and the Cooperative Development Authority (CDA).

Cebu Pacific flies from Cagayan de Oro to Zamboanga three times a week every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. At present, CEB operates 60 domestic and 32 international routes. A new international route is scheduled to start on October 7, 2013 between Manila and Dubai.

The first group of travel journalists from Zamboanga visited Cagayan de Oro last November 27-29, 2012 while Kagayanon travel writers returned the favor last Feb. 12-14, 2013.

I was fortunate enough to be invited to join the latter group. I grew up in Zamboanga City and had been living in Cagayan de Oro for the past 32 years.

In between, I never had the opportunity to revisit this famous pair of islands which we used to frequent during my high school and college days so I was looking forward to see how it’s fared during the lifetime I was away.

During my salad days we used to take our rides from the Lantaka Hotel-by-the-Sea but the embarkation point has now been moved to the Paseo del Mar which is a definite improvement over the old one.

Even the boats are now bigger, compared to the outrigger pump boats we used to take. The waves were bigger in the afternoon and it was an adventure in itself coming back to Lantaka with the little boats (3-4 passengers only compared to the big 16-seater boats of today) dipping in between the wave troughs that you lost sight of the mainland and appeared to be on the brink of sinking. But the Sama boatmen were experts and always brought us home safely albeit sometimes wet.

It was late in the morning when we embarked at Paseo del Mar for Santa Cruz Grande which is the only one open to the public, with Sta. Cruz restricted (as a military facility). After an uneventful 15-minute ride we arrived at Santa Cruz Grande. Situated some 4 kms (2.49 miles) from downtown Zamboanga, it boasts of the only pink sand beach in the Philippines. The red color comes from bits of the red organ pipe coral (tubipora musica) mixed with its endemic white sand.

The Basilan Straight links the Sulu and Celebes Seas, making it a natural channel for fishes moving from one sea to the other. The underwater scenery here can be spectacular. According to my cousin Philipp’s (who now calls Florida home) website Zamboanga.com, Zamboanga and Santa Cruz Islands were frequented by German and Italian tourists who called it their hidden paradise in the little Spain of Asia during the late 1960s and early 1970s, which is affirmed by my grade school and high school classmate Romel Racho whose family used to run the local Baron’s Travel branch.

Our guide told us Sta. Cruz Grande was formerly

The CAGAYAN de ORO TIMES

The Lanzones Growers of Gingoog in Action (LANGGA) Producers Cooperative benefits from the P250,000 worth of project funded by the Department of Agriculture -10 through its High Value Crops Development Program (DA-HVCDP) for the rehabilitation and expansion of their organic fertilizer plant. In addition to the establishment of vermi-shed and vermi-beds (bottom left), the Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWM) also grants equipment for the organic fertilizer plant such as organic shredder and separator (bottom right) and compost tea brewer (top left).

Sama Bangingi graves in their ancestral Sta. Cruz Grande burial grounds uninhabited since it was the traditional burial grounds of the Samal Dilaut. They are the ocean going Sama (“dilaut” refers to the ocean). The Sama Dilaut are traditionally sea gypsies and houseboat dwellers. Recently they have been semi-nomadic, often living out at sea for days, weeks or months, but gradually adopting the lifestyle of their Sama brothers and building their homes on the coastlines of the Philippines and Malaysia.

According to Ms. Borja, “in the Pre-Hispanic period the two Santa Cruz Islands were the sacred burial grounds for the Sama, Badjao and other local: ethnic groups in the area. Some local Sama-Zamboangueños know this island simply as ISLA. Musa Jimlaniand Bahaya Sahiyal said they call the islands Pagkubulan – a place to bury their dead or a burial place.”

“Sama-Zamboangueños based in Rio Hondo, CawaCawa and in the West coast area of Sinunuc, and Caragasan bury their dead in Santa Cruz island. The Sama-Badjao culture and their belief system indicate that they bury their dead near the sea shore since they are a sea-faring people living in the coastal areas”. The term Badjao has become the more commonly known name for the Sama Dilaut in the Philippines although they prefer to call themselves as Sama.”

Snorkeling and scuba diving among the coral gardens especially of Sta Cruz Chico are excellent, though the coral gardens in Sta Cruz Grande have been degraded, unlike in my college days when you could see all sorts of tropical fish not five feet from the pink sand shores. TIEZA maintains huts and bathroom facilities for picnickers and beach volleyballers so there’s lots to do for sun and beach

worshippers.

However, the most fascinating places for me in Sta. Cruz Grande are its ancient burial grounds of the Sama Dilaut and its mysterious inland lagoon.

Although Ms. Borja said the Zamboanga City Council has issued an ordinance forbidding further burials on the island, our guide showed us recent graves which include plots belonging to one family or clan. It is fascinating to see the intricately carves sundok (gravestones), miniature wooden boats and kubol (grave plots) leading far inland to the island, indicating their ancient age.

Other locals tell me the graves even include those of ancient Mandarins who could not bury their dead in Zamboanga during the Spanish times since they were not local citizens. Unfortunately, these graves have reportedly been pillaged by some unscrupulous grave diggers who have found ceramic ware and other valuables such as an 18-inch Ming plate which was allegedly sold for P36, 000 to one of the present candidates for the senate. Tsk, tsk, tsk, TIEZA should secure these graves more closely else even those of the Sama Dilaut be ransacked by these rascals.

The inland lagoon is another fascinating place for visitors to explore. We had to do this in our boats at noon time since that was when the high tide came in and made it possible for our big boats to enter the lagoon. The mangrove trees are a fascinating sight in themselves and the quiet broken only by the chirping of the birds is better experienced first-hand than described in travel journals.

Our big boats were unfortunately unable to venture further inland so we saw the famous fruit bats hanging from the trees in broad daylights from a distance but apparently they could discern us even at that distance and set up a din and racket of protest against the intruders who dared disturb their slumber.

Even for these two alone, I know I’m going back there someday. There’s a lot more to these islands than meets the eye, and you who know can feel it in your bones.

The Bisaya community in Sta. Cruz Grande

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d e O ro

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Villar gets another endorsement from charismatic group FORMER Las Pinas Rep. Cynthia Villar got another boost in her senatorial bid after she was endorsed by the Catholic Conscience Vote Phils. (CCVP), an equipment of pro-life, pro-family charismatic communities and organizations.

In a meeting, the CCVP’s Secretary-General Antonio Ag. Medina said they decided to back her candidacy due to her strong stance in the preservation of human life and protection of family.

During her stint as member of the House of Representatives for nine years, Villar supported the passage of significant measures to protect the interest and welfare of the family and its members. Villar is running for senator under Nacionalista PartyTeam PNoy In backing Villar, Medina cited the “NO Vote” of her husband, Senator Manny Villar, on the passage of the RH bill in the Senate. He likewise said the Villar couple are long time members of the Couple’s

CLEAN... from Page 1 the Nacionalista Party (NP) is one with the Filipino nation in harnessing the spirit and essence of people power in support of peace and development initiatives for Southern Philippines,” she said.

Saying that Mindanao would be one of her priority areas for her development programs if elected to the Senate, Villar said she was elated that the MILF and government have agreed to ensure coordination of the movements and deployment of election personnel and equipment and personnel of the Armed Forces Philippines (A F P) a n d Ph i l i p p i n e National Police (PNP), as deputized by the Commission on Elections (Comelec), in polling centers within the MILF-dominated areas.

Media reports said the Philippine government and the MILF agreed to establish a Joint Ceasefire Monitoring Post as quick response team for any violation of the MOU. The MILF also committed to refrain from consolidating its forces from the time precinct count optical scan or PCOS machines are deployed and u nt i l elect ion has been completed.

“The holding of peaceful, orderly and credible elections in Mindanao will serve as big boost in our efforts to pursue a lasting peace agreement in Mindanao that would eventually pave the way for massive development projects in the area,” Villar said.

“It will show that diverse ethnic and religious groups in Mindanao need not settled their differences through the barrel of the gun but through peaceful means of elections,” Villar said. “We are about to witness the resurgence of a revitalized democracy in Mindanao.”

Earlier, Villar said the NP was throwing its full support behind the current peace process between the government and the MILF following the signing of the

For Christ (CFC), which they have actively been supporting.

The CCVP, which has 600 allied Catholic communities and organizations nationwide, was conceptualized to help pro-life and pro-family candidates win votes.

“While there is the so-called ‘command votes’ from El Shaddai of Brother Mike Velarde, Kingdom of Jesus Christ of Apollo Quiboloy, Jesus Is Lord of Brother Eddie Villanueva and the Iglesia Ni Cristo, the Catholic vote is now shaping up after the RH (issue),” related Medina.

The CCVP was formed in consonance with the January 28, 2013 pastoral letter of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) calling for "circles of discernment” to examine and question the sincerity, quality and effectiveness of governance of our leaders and to answer the question “Is there a Catholic Vote?”, among others.

The CCVP believes that, to the

Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB) last year.

K now n as “Misis H a n e p b u h a y,” V i l l a r described as a “major leap for peace” the presidential appointment of 15 members to the Transition Commission (TransCom) earlier t his month that would help draft the Bangsamoro Basic Law as a vital step towards obtaining lasting peace in Mindanao.

Vi l la r s a id she w i l l support the transformation of conf lict-affected areas i n Mu sl i m M i nd a nao into havens of peace and development as a major t h r u s t o f t h e Aq u i n o administration.

Villar said that the Villar Foundation is willing to work w it h ot her NGOs and LGUs in promoting various livelihood projects in Mindanao. “We all have to pitch in and accompany the peace process to its rightful conclusion because a peaceful and stable Mindanao has much to offer not just our country but the world,” Villar stressed.

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GIFT... from Page 12 workers abroad, Villar said she will pursue the enactment of her legislative measure mandating the creation of the Department of Overseas Filipino Workers.

Vi l l a r s a i d i t w a s essential for the executive department to have a separate department for OFWs to centralize all services and functions of OFW-related government agencies or bureaus.

Villar said a number of them were reported to be maltreated by abusive employers and subjected to other forms of injustices.

Through the “Sagip OFW Program” of the Villar Foundation, where she sits as managing director, Villar said she has personally heard all the troubles and sad plight by migrant workers.

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spiritually mature, a public office is an opportunity for service. The office will bring them and the people they serve closer to heaven. “Love them by voting them into office,” it stated.

However, to the spiritually immature, a public office is an occasion of sin. The office will bring them and the people they deceive closer to perdition. “Love them by

VILLAR... from Page 12 program.

Vi l l a r Foundation’s water hyacinth basket weaving enterprise, coconet weaving enterprise, organic fertilizer making enterprise, handloom blanket weaving enterprise, citronella oil-making enterprise, among others have benefited more than 500 families in Las Piñas.

The livelihood projects have also been duplicated in 179 municipalities and cities all over the country.

“We have built pilot centers nationwide. So far, we have only covered a little over 10 percent of the 1,600 towns and cities in the Philippines.

My goal is to have one livelihood project in each one of them,” said Villar.

Villar ’s other environmental advocacy is her stance against the planned 635.14-hectare Manila Bay reclamation project that will affect the Las Piñas-Parañaque Critical Habitat and Ecotourism Area (LPPCHEA), the most recent addition on the Ramsar List of Wetlands of International Importance.

She filed a petition for Writ of Kalikasan on March 16 against the said project, which the Supreme Court granted on April 10 last year.

The writ of kalikasan was issued but not a temporary environmental protection order or TEPO—without a TEPO, the contractor can still proceed with the projects. The court decision on this is yet to be released, but the hearings at the Court of Appeals were finished.

“I am concerned about the catastrophic effects that the proposed Manila Bay reclamation project will bring about—including the damage to the bird sanctuary as well as to the mangrove forest and marine habitat.

The worst of which, is that it will cause severe flooding in 37 barangays in Bacoor, 11 in Paranaque and 17 in Las Piñas. Floods with a depth of as much as 5.12

not voting for them,” added the charismatic group.

Aside from Villar, CCVP will also endorse the candidacy of reelectionist Senators Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III and Antonio Trillanes IV. Villar, Pimentel and Trillanes were also earlier endorsed by the White Vote Movement led by El Shaddai.

CCVP also vouches for senatoriables JC delos Reyes, Lito David and Mar Llasos, all running under Kapatiran, which the group describes as the “only political party with a platform and programs that are aligned with the teachings of the Catholic Church.”

CCVP will officially proclaim their senatorial bets on April 28, 2013 during a gathering of about 6,000 leaders of the Soldiers of Christ, Servant communities and other member organizations in Maypajo, Caloocan City.

The officers of the CCVP are Bert Alba, Chairman; Antonio Medina,

meters or equivalent to a two-storey high building,” cited Villar.

LPPCHEA serves as a sanctuary to migratory bird species from as far as Siberia. According to the Wild Bird Club of the Philippines, Metro Manila has 150 species of birds, 72 of which are found at LPPCHEA. It is the only bird sanctuary located in an urban setting, thus it is considered as the ‘last bastion’. Because of its biodiversity, LPPCHEA was declared as a critical habitat in 2007 by Proclamation No. 1412.

According to Villar, environmental problems need both legislative support and practical solutions. As a congresswoman for 10 years, she has authored and pushed for the passage of environmental bills also.

And if and when elected as senator, environment is still among her key legislative agenda.

Secretary-General; Nestor Camacho, Deputy Secretary General, Ricky Presa, head of the Council of the Laity, Diocese of Paranaque; Bro. Alberto “Ting” Arcadio, National Head Servant Soldiers of Christ and Fr. Leonardo Polinar, National Shepherd Servant Coomunites, Fr. Melvin Castro and Bishop Jose Colin Bagaporo serve as spiritual advisers while retired Supreme Court Justice Leonardo Quisumbing is the legal adviser. Lawyer Alonso Tinagan, Prof.

Carmelio Cajayon, Jing Mendoza and Feloryn Delavin, Directors.

The members of the CCVP includes the following: Soldiers of Christ, Servants Communities, Transparochial Catholic Charismatic Alliance, Love’s Flock, Knights of Columbus Paranaque, Knights of Columbus Aklan, Catholic Vote Alliance, Unlad Kapanalig, Kawal ni Kristo (Bulacan Province) and Lunda Luntiang Daigdig. CCVP expects to deliver no less than 1.7 million votes.

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PEACE... from Page 1 for peace seekers and nature lovers as it is being held in one through music and other activities that will help the people from Mindanao realized that the environment must be well taken care for.

When asked what other gree n orga n izatio n s s h e supports in Germany, Svegler said that she sings for events, be it for nature or another. “In my own little way, I can help, aside from campaigning, it starts from within, one, I don’t litter anywhere”.

Also, Isa Tabasuares and Tomas Walter from Germany

and Fantuzzi from Hawaii one with local performing and sculpture artists such as Waway Saway, Sinyma, Mush Project, Purple Kush, Crowns Down, Ruska, Lost Tribe, Rhyan Casiño, Kit Gresos, Michael Bacol, and Fadi Ismael performed for a cause.

“It is fun, as a Mindanaonon, I am now more aware about it, their advocacies and most, I can do something in my own little way to conserve the nature”, Irene Domingo, one of the festival goers said.

Last year’s SPF was at Zamboanga City and this year the city’s leg Paz Musika del Mar Summer Peace Festival is on April 29- May 1.

Read the latest news in Business, Economy, Corporate World, Agri-Business and a lot more from the newest newspaper that comes your way from monday to friday!

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SEARCH... from Page 1 Meanwhile, on the major category, agriculture photo of the year, tobacco photo of the year, agriculture story of the year, tobacco story of the year, and the oriental leaf award.

“Bright leaf aims to heighten tri-media practitioners’ participation by actively searching for a bigger number of nominees from more agricultural provinces while at the same time sustaining and strengthening ties with previously covered provinces”, Buenaventura said.

The search is open to all professional Filipino journalists, at least 18 years old residing in the Philippines and at the time of the submission of entries.

Entries submitted should only be published, aired or broadcast locally between September 1, 2012 to August 31, 2013.

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Good governance is best Labor Day gift ~Villar Nacionalista Party-Team PNoy senatorial candidate and former Las Piñas Rep. Cynthia Villar today said the firm commitment to good governance that will pave the way for the delivery of fresh investments and job opportunities would be the best gift government can give its workers on Labor Day. At the same time, Villar thank the labor sector for declaring its support for her senatorial bid, saying the expression of confidence would prompt her to work harder to propose pro-labor measures when elected into the Senate.

Villar said she was humbled by the support extended to her and seven other senatorial candidates by the Philippine Trade and General Workers Organization (PTGWO) under the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP), the biggest labor confederation in country.

The workers’ group, which boasts a membership of 110 labor unions, declared its support for Villar and the other candidates in a general assembly in the TUCP headquarters in Quezon City on Wednesday.

In her Labor Day message to the country’s workers, Villar said the Nacionalista Party is committed to support the reform agenda of President Aquino to bring about good governance, an improved economy, more jobs and better services to the people, particularly the poor and the marginalized, in the next three years.

“I believe the best Labor Day gift we can give our workers will be our commitment to pursue good governance which is a sure-fire formula to revitalize our economy and create the much needed

jobs being clamored by our workers for a long time now,” Villar said.

“Good governance will mean more investments and more investments will mean more jobs. That is what we intend to do in the next three years in our coalition partnership with President Aquino,” she added.

Once elected into office, Villar said she will pursue her long-time advocacies of promoting livelihood opportunities through small and medium term business enterprises, provide the necessary climate that will bring out more jobs and better social services.

To address the concerns affecting the over 12 million Filipino migrant GIFT|Page 11

Villar: Environmental issues are finally getting long-deserved attention More advocates needed to sustain environment causes

On Earth Day, former Las Piñas Representative Cynthia Villar said she is glad that the environment is now getting all the attention as she calls on more people to get actively involved in supporting and fighting for environmental causes.

“It is long delayed actually, but it is good that more and more people are becoming more aware and actively involved in environmental issues.

Everyone’s help counts.

This is a universal issue and human concern that transcends political leanings or even personal interests. We should all be in this together because this is the only Earth we got,” said Villar, managing director of Villar Foundation, which has numerous environmentrelated programs and projects.

On its 21st year, the Villar Foundation’s first project was tree-planting to alleviate the effects

of climate change and to date, it has planted nearly a million trees.

In 2002, it launched the Sagip Ilog program or the Las Piñas river rehabilitation program with the goal of cleaning up the river to address two major concerns: the worsening flood problem in Las Piñas and to allow aquatic life to thrive anew.

To make those environmental projects more sustainable, Villar incorporated a livelihood component. “Most environment-related projects fail because the

people involved are not committed enough and community involvement and commitment are critical factors in ensuring the success of any environmental rehabilitation and conservation program.

There should be something in it for them,” she cited.

Thus, the birth of Villar’s green social enterprises or livelihood projects out of wastes and garbage such as water hyacinths and coconut husks from her river rehabilitation

VILLAR|Page 11

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