The Cagayan de Oro Times (May 25-31, 2013 Issue)

The Night Stalker:

The

Pasiyo ta MisOr! Vol. 1 | No. 43 | Cagayan de Oro City | May 25-31, 2013

Page 11 P10.00

CAGAYANTIMES d e O ro

Your Weekly Lifestyle Newspaper

Loreyn Kaye Delfin

T

he Princess of Golden Friendship

R

egal. Loreyn Kaye Delfin is a six-year-old little lady with a charm befitting a princess. Loreyn was a shy little girl who shuns away from a crowd and keeps to her own at times.

A late bloomer – perhaps. But a line from the movie “Mulan” would best describe Loreyn, “The flower that blooms in adversity is the most rare and beautiful of all”.

All that changed when Loreyn was enrolled in several activities that would boost her confidence. Loreyn continues to take ballet lessons at the Grace and Pointes Dance Center and is a proud member of the Cagayan de Oro Talent Center.

Cagayan de Oro Talent Center is an event organizer and local talent builder in Northern Mindanao and CARAGA Region. Established on October 2002, the center has more than 1200 talents including dance groups, models, singers, hosts, stage actors, directors, choreographers, scriptwriters and event coordinators.

Loreyn is crowned as the Princess of Golden Friendship at the recent Sagala Flores de Mayo 2013 Grand Event at the Gaisano City Mall Activity Area, May 19.

Loreyn wows the crowd as she glides through the runway besting more than a hundred participants to be crowned as the Princess of Golden Friendship.

Loreyn now faces the world directly through our lenses, her beauty and charm would easily melt anyone’s heart even on a cold summer night.

Loreyn’s is also a part of the ensemble of the Grace and Pointes Dance Center recital at the Rodelsa Hall on May 25, at 2:30pm.

From shy to princess. Loreyn’s walk and poses now show confidence. The metamorphosis from a caterpillar to a beautiful butterfly is complete.

Story & Photos by Shaun Alejandrae Yap Uy editor-in-chief Main Photo by Kent Leonard Heyasa

METROSPECT: Weekend Family Sojourn at Seda BGC

Coca-Cola Philippines 3rd football fest takes-off in May

Sweeter future waits for Misamis Oriental’s coco sugar

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May 25-31, 2013

The Cagayan de Oro TIMES

MetroSpect

Weekend Family Sojourn at Seda BGC

By Mike Baños

I

n the course of my travels as a writer, I have often brought my family along with me so they too could experience the beauty and wonders of our fair and beautiful country.

Most recently, I had the chance to experience a weekend at the new Seda Bonifacio Global City courtesy of our friends in Seda, (thanks Berry Marfori!)

With me were my wife Gardy, and my sons Leon and Jules.

Seda BGC and its siblings in Cagayan de Oro (Seda Centrio), Davao (Seda Abreeza) and soon in Nuvali are billed as business and lifestyle hotels. How that would sit with a family out on vacation, here’s what my wife and children had to say.

Gardy is the manager of the UCCP Guesthouse, a hostel near the UCCP Cagayan de Oro City Church, and is a writer in her own right, having previously published lifestyle articles and romantic fiction in some of our women’s magazines.

“Whenever I go on a trip, I always look for an X-factor of the place I’m staying.

A special touch or flavor, perhaps, which makes my stay worthwhile and nudges me to come back sometime.

A recent trip to Manila last April led our family to Seda BGC. It got me again: the thrill of first time. First time to actually be in Global City. First time to spend our last day in Manila in a plush hotel. First time for my sons to meet up their buddies and cousins in a different city. And first time to sleep in a suite room!

From their lobby all the way to our suite room on the 11th floor, I started doing my mental checklist, a habit that turns on when I stay in hotels: Hotel lobby, check! Spacious, comfortable, sparse, with a curious brass giraffe guarding the main door, plus a free internet/pc area for guests (my boys gave that kicking thumbs up). Front Desk, check! It's her job to smile and be accommodating. Bellman, check! He’s expected to be polite and entertaining. Elevator, two checks! It’s one of the most pleasant, smooth elevator rides I’ve ever had. Hallways, check! Specially noted the classy art deco and wall treatments.

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Suite room now, and my story’s just getting started: lo and behold! three checks instantly for a well designed space!

The kitchen, two checks! Spells comfort for coffee or tea time, hot or cold whatever pleases you.

The living area, two checks with enough room to lounge around, watch NBA or just work at the desk. The master bedroom: three checks with a luxurious cozy bed, another TV (! ) The closet, two checks!

The handy electric iron and board was a plus, not common in other hotels I’ve been to, even for Southeast Asia.

The bathroom, two checks: big bathtub, excellent toiletries, hair dryer and neat storage. Well, seems everything here just exceeds my expectation!

Still, I need to find what Seda BGC has which makes it beyond par...that fine fiber to finally say, ahhh...silky cocoon.

I was musing on this as I slowly lay in the bed and then I found it : that X-factor, the fine fiber of Seda which would make me wish to come back...ten checks, twenty checks! drum rolling....it’s the PILLOWS. Yes, ladies and gentlemen. simple and basic it may seem, but pillows are all it takes for a sleeping log like moi.

What would good would a million dollar bedroom be if the pillow won't make you sleep and dream? Yes! Seda pillows are the best memory I will take home with me.

Yes, dinner at Misto was also a pleasant experience but that is another story.”

Leon, 26, is studying advanced software programming at Informatics Institute: “I had to keep my mouth from gaping during my brief stay at Seda BGC. The place had a very conservative yet grandiose design to it, from the hotel lobby to the top floor lounge. The rooms that my family and I stayed in were very comfy and well-furnished and had everything that a traveler might need during his/her stay.

The hotel staff were also very courteous and excellent at their work. The chef, in particular, cooked up many deliciously unforgettable dishes. Hands down, the food I tasted there was the best I’ve ever had and could undoubtedly be bragged about as world-class cuisine.

Overall, I’d happily give SEDA a double thumbs-up. To anyone who might ask me which hotel to go to, I would definitely recommend SEDA BGC without a second thought.”

Jules, 22, just finished his B.S. Chemistry at Mindanao Institute of Science and Technology and is now undertaking a review for his upcoming board exam: “My brief overnight stay at Seda Bonifacio Global City could only be described as spectacular. The services and facilities were superb and the people working there were very helpful and pleasant. The beds were very comfortable and the view was great and the room overall gave a homey feeling.Not the least, I truly appreciate the security system with the rooms and the usage of the elevator being exclusive for guests only, exception for the roof deck and the second floor with the swimming pool and gym which were open to the public.”

So how’s that for an endorsement?

Personally, the edge I believe Seda BGC has over similar hotels in Metro Manila (and believe me, I’ve done the whole kit and caboodle from the lowest to the highest) is its service. Courteous without being unobtrusive, Filipino hospitality at its best. Discreet if you may, from the bellman that whisks your luggage to your room to the front desk, to waiters (who actually wait on you), you will be pampered without being bothered.

Seda BGC is at the corner of 30th Street and 11th Avenue, BGC, Taguig City.

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Billboard

The Cagayan de Oro TIMES

Music is definitely a life companion. It motivates people, change moods and emotions, and influence behaviors and actions. Music has a way of captivating large audiences and speaking to all kinds of different people, regardless of gender, age, or socio-economic class.

This inspired Globe Telecom, the #1 in postpaid and trusted device partner, to use music as an important element when it launched the newest Samsung Galaxy S4 at the NBC Tent recently and surprised its over 400 subscribers with a mini-concert.

With radio DJ Karen Bordador as host, the concert featured four (4) of today’s most admired music icons such as R&B singer Luke Mejares, soul band Freestyle, rock group The Dawn, and rock icon Bamboo. It was a powerhouse cast, and with the performers’ signature songs and timeless hits, subscribers and their companions were taken to music heaven without the need for a ticket or pass.

On top of the free concert, guests were treated to a generous dinner buffet and overflowing drinks as they wait for their turn to claim their new Galaxy baby. Booths also came aplenty for subscribers looking for new phone accessories like cases and protective covers for their newly-purchased, hot-from-the-oven Galaxy S4.

“Aside from making Globe subscribers one of the first owners of the Samsung Galaxy S4 in the world, we take pride in giving them the best experience from preorder to actual fulfillment with innovative launches like this,” shared Debbie Obias,

Head of Globe Postpaid Acquisitions.

Subscribers can avail of the Samsung Galaxy S4 for as low as P1,599 monthly under the best-ever Globe My Super Plan 999 with P600 monthly cashout over a 24-month contract period, giving subscribers the most affordable and competitive device bundle offer in the market today. Under this best-ever offer, subscribers get unlimited LTE surfing of up to 42 Mbps plus free calls and texts.

The Samsung Galaxy S4 is also available at lower plans with affordable monthly cashouts payable via credit card over 24 months at 0% interest. Subscribers availing of Platinum plans under a 24-month contract period get the Samsung Galaxy S4 with a free Samsung device. At Plan 3799, subscribers get a free Samsung Galaxy S3 mini; at Plan 5000 a free Samsung Galaxy Camera; and at Plan 10000 a free Samsung Galaxy Note 2.

Obias added, “Samsung’s nextgeneration smartphone is best paired with a next-generation postpaid plan from Globe with our best-ever My Super Plan, made even more personalized, customizable and flexible than ever, giving subscribers more options to enjoy their postpaid plan bundle. With the most competitive S4 offer in the market today with a shorter lock-up period, customers are assured that they get the best device deals only from Globe.”

Subscribers can go to a Globe Store or visit www.globe.com.ph/galaxys4 to order a Samsung Galaxy S4 from Globe.

May 25-31, 2013

3

Music icons rock the Globe Samsung Galaxy S4 launch

The Voice mentor and Tattoo ambassador Bamboo rocks the Tent down

Globe President and CEO Ernest Cu checks out various accessories and phone covers at one of the booths

New Lenovo reality game with Kobe puts the ball in your court

Cong. Rufus Rodriguez defends House Bill 6551 or the The Political Party Development Act Of 2012 in the plenary during the 15th Congress

President of the Centrist Democrats Re-elected into the House

In the Second District of Cagayan de Oro Rufus Rodriguez, President of the Centrist Democratic Party of the Philippines, has been re-elected into the House of Representatives.

It is the first time in Philippine history that a representative of a dues-paying member based political party with clear ideological orientation has been elected into Congress.

Rodriguez defeated his opponent from UNA with 80% of the total votes.

The Centrist Democratic Party of the Philippines is the youngest national political party of the country. Established early 2012 it has been accredited as a National Political Party by COMELEC only a few days before the deadline for the filing of candidates for the 2013 election in October 2012.

Rufus Rodriguez, a prominent law dean and practising lawyer and until 2012 an influential member of the PMP of former President Estrada in the House, has been elected President of the young party by its National Council with duly elected representatives from all regions of the Philippines on September 30, 2012.

“I have a mission to fulfil with CDP”, he said.

“We have to modernize our defunct political party system in order to make our democracy work for all citizens. We have to overcome the patronage system inherited from the Spanish.

We need parties of citizens, not parties of

politicians controlled by patrons. We need parties who give the voters the choice for political options and who hold accountable the elected representatives after the election.”

Rodriguez announced that he will give highest priority in his legislative agenda to the amendment of the Philippine Constitution, an urgent necessity to strengthen participative democracy, rule of law and the creation of jobs against the widespread poverty.

Furthermore he will continue to fight for the adoption of the “Political Party Development Act”, a modern party law, which had already passed by third reading the House in the 15th Congress but was not acted upon in the Senate.

Another priority will be the adoption of a modern competition law, which will break the monopolies and cartels in the national and local markets of the country and open the way for a successful entry of the Philippines into the ASEAN Economic Community scheduled for 2015.

Rodriguez furthermore expressed the support of his party for the Muslim Mindanao Peace Process and the implementation of the Framework Agreement on Bangsamoro. He offered to play an active and constructive role in the discussion and adoption of the Bangsamoro Basic Law, expected to take place in Congress in 2014.

When you’re in any part of Caraga, read...

LENOVO Mobile brings the excitement of the court to tech fans with a cool new augmented reality game featuring its endorser, NBA superstar Kobe Bryant.

With game standees deployed across Lenovo retail outlets nationwide, customers will have the opportunity to test their mettle in this exciting shooting game where they must score five baskets to get a photo with Bryant himself and the chance to win a new Lenovo K900.

It only takes three easy steps to start shooting some hoops and possibly win a K900. Get ready to play by first downloading the free Zapper app, then catching any of Kobe Bryant’s Augmented Reality standees at Lenovo outlets. Go to your app, tap Zapcode, and scan the code on the basketball to bring the ball to life and begin the game. Score five baskets by simply following the instructions on screen.

When the game is done, players get to pose for a quick snapshot with Kobe Bryant and share their photos through Twitter or Instagram using the hashtags #Walangiwanan, #NeverFallBehind, #LenovoMobilePhilippines, or through Facebook by tagging www.facebook. com/LenovoMobilePhilippines. Tag the images under these three categories: Elegant, Powerful, and Everything Flow, and get the chance to be part of the monthly raffle where a Lenovo K900 will be given away to the lucky winner.

The slimmest among Lenovo’s latest lineup of smartphones at only 6.99mm and weighing a scant 162 grams, the K900 boasts of a front-and-rear camera and the world’s first 5.5-inch full-HD 400+ PPI screen.

The K900 also packs an Intel Atom Z2580 2GHz dual-core processor which assures uninterrupted performance of its all-around functions – just like Kobe Bryant who is unstoppable and always moving and hustling on court.

Walang Iwanan! Turn up the hardcourt heat with Lenovo’s augmented reality game that combines power, performance, and entertainment.

Kobe Bryant Augmented Reality standees are now at Lenovo outlets in Manila, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo and other urban locations across the Greater Manila Area, Luzon, and the Visayas and Mindanao regions.

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May 25-31, 2013

The Cagayan de Oro TIMES

Around NorthMin

Ledesma reminded Oca his ‘marching orders’

By BONG FABE

ARCHBISHOP Antonio J. Ledesma yesterday reminded Mayor-elect Oscar “Oca” S. Moreno and the city councilors-elect the eightpoint governance agenda that they should implement starting on their first day in office, June 30.

These are (1) water system improvements; (2) health program for the poor; (3) increased budget allotment for the city hospital; (4) city peace and order); (5) environmental preservation and cleanliness; (6) enforcement of traffic rules and regulations; (7) transparency of city hall; and (8) balanced integrated urban-rural development.

In his homily during the Thanksgiving Mass offered by Team Oca Friday night, Ledesma echoed these “marching orders” as he stressed the need for newly-elected public officials to adhere to the principles of solidarity, participation and political charity.

These three principles, he

stressed, are the foundation for good governance “that should be heeded especially by our public officials.”

But these principles also apply to everyone, the voters, the electorate, the people who chose their “leaders” when they exercise their right of suffrage last May 13.

The eight-point governance agenda was earlier endorsed by the church-based alliance of private and public groups called Manag-silingan Ta, which also urged “for an urgent change in the city government to a participatory, people-community development-driven, transparent governance.”

“We can achieve change in our city under an atmosphere of developmental vision, professionalism and competence, transparency and integrity— which we can bond together under a brand of servantleadership with our people at heart,” the group said.

Mayor-elect Moreno — who heard mass with his family — was observed to have looked and listened intently to Ledesma the entire sermon.

But when Ledesma started itemizing each of the eight point governance agenda, Moreno started covering his face and looked down at his feet — a visible sign that he has realized the enormity of the task of “changing” Cagayan de Oro for the better or even for the best.

Kagay-anons, who were dreaming for change but were frustrated in 2010, gave their all-out support to Moreno, whose “Hapsay nga Pang-gobyerno” campaign slogan summarized all their dreams and wishes for Northern Mindanao’s premier city.

Hapsay nga pang-gobyerno or good governance can only be achieved when those elected adhere to the three principles of solidarity, participation and political charity, Ledesma said.

Face lifting of CDOC National Highway Starts Two (2) weeks after the instruction of DPWH-X Regional Director Evelyn Barroso to do up the national highway of Cagayan de Oro City, members of the Maintenance Crew of this region started off the project.

As a concerted effort of the Regional Maintenance Division and Cagayan de Oro’s 1st and 2nd DEOs, Maintenance Engineers with their men rushed to the site to implement the order. Acting Regional Maintenance Engineer, Virgie G. Nayve took time in supervising the work of the field men and sees to it that instructions are properly executed.

Areas to be improved are the roads within the stretch from Barangays Puerto to Bulua. The island of the road near Gaisano and Centrio malls will be raised to emphasize its structure for visibility of the motorists.

To prevent pedestrians from crossing, plants will be placed. The structure will also be painted with the DPWH standard color for added beauty and visibility.

A resident of this place, Director Barroso wants to see Cagayan de Oro City with a clean National Highway, well paved roads, painted curbs and gutters, and canals cleared of garbage and debris.

With the on-going improvement, we are appealing to the public to please bear with us in this temporary inconvenience in your trips and travels. Our office is requesting for your understanding and cooperation in giving a face lift to Cagayan de Oro City national highway.

[Sandra v. flores, information officer/spokesperson]

Members of the DPWH-X Maintenance crew cleans up the drainage canal along the National Highway of Kauswagagan in preparation of the rainy days.

“Facelifting” of CDO City road is started with the repair/ improvement of the island of the national highway. This picture is taken at the Gaisano area.

Comes out from Monday to Friday...

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Around NorthMin

May 25-31, 2013

The Cagayan de Oro TIMES

5

Investments, Consider a Time Deposit

When Thinking of

W

hen people th ink about investments, several things come to mind – stocks, bonds, treasury bills, real estate, and others.

But another form of investment that seldom comes just as easily as the aforementioned ones is a time deposit.

A time deposit, especially with a reputable and stable bank, is one sure way to reap a future financial windfall.

While time deposits or TD’s are indeed deposit products, unlike regular savings deposits, a TD often has a higher interest rate.

The rates differ according the type of time deposit and the norm is the longer the deposit stays with the bank, the better the interest rate. This is the downside though of a TD: it cannot be withdrawn just as easily as that of a regular savings deposit. It has to stay with the bank for an agreed period or “term”. After the term, the principal amount can be withdrawn with the accrued interest, or, if the depositor chooses, it can be held for another term. In addition, interest rates may also be driven by market factors.

However, unlike investing in the stock market, or worse, gambling

EVP Jesus Vicente Garcia, veterans bank your money away at the casino or betting on horses, a time deposit in a reputable bank is probably the safest way for an individual to save and grow his or her money.

However, before rushing off to save your hard-earned money in a TD, there are several factors to consider first.

Mr. Jesus Vicente Garcia, Executive Vice-President and Branch Banking Group Head of Philippine Veterans Bank advises individuals to look beyond the interest rate when shopping for time deposit products. Individuals should also consider the bank’s reputation and understand that not all time deposit products are alike. They should also read the fine print and understand all the terms and conditions of the time deposit product before signing the dotted line, so to speak.

Maximized Returns on a Long-Term TD Investment Philippine Veterans Bank, a commercial bank with a network of 60 branches nationwide, offers time deposit products with terms of 30 to 360 days. But for the past couple of years, it has also been offering individuals a long-term time deposit product that will deliver a financial windfall at the

The CAGAYAN de ORO TIMES

end of five years: Maxi-Return Time Deposit.

“Our Maxi-Return Time Deposit is one of three long-term TD products currently offered by the bank that offers maximized return on your investment,” said Mr. Garcia. “And this is because of the 5% interest rate we can give you.”

Veterans Bank Maxi-Return Time Deposit promises a generous return on the deposit amount an individual makes at the start of the term. A P500,000 deposit today will earn an estimated interest of P141,855.79 at the end of the term.

“Our Maxi-Return TD is quite affordable,” said Mr. Garcia. “For as little as P100,000, you can already open a 5-year TD with Veterans Bank. You get all benefits especially the high interest rate of 5% that is monthly compounding.”

Mr. Garcia is also proud to say that all of Veterans Bank’s time deposit products come with free insurance incentive. Every time deposit opened guarantees the depositor with an accident insurance coverage worth the deposit amount or up to P5 million.

“Our insurance incentive for Maxi-Return is more special because aside from the accident

insurance, it also has a In-Hospital Income Benefit whereby if the individual gets hospitalized for at least a day, he or she can receive a cash benefit equivalent to 0.10% of his or her deposit amount,” added Mr. Garcia.

“That makes the product even more attractive. You’re not only saving for your future but you’re also insuring yourself and your family.”

Long-Term Time Deposits Still Attractive Investment Option Since Veterans Bank launched its long-term time deposit products two years ago, the market response has been overwhelming. According to Mr. Garcia, the bank achieved its target of hitting Php 2 billion for its longterm time deposit products last year.

This year, despite the economic slowdown globally, Mr. Garcia still believes that TD products will still be an attractive investment given that the Philippine market has experienced an uptick of late.

“People, especially those looking for long-term financial rewards, will still look at time deposit products that will be offered by banks,” said Mr. Garcia. “And I still believe that with 5% interest and free accident insurance incentive, our Maxi-Return TD will still be foremost in their minds.”

Indeed time deposit products will be a success mainly because people will always want to secure their future and are always looking for a safe yet enriching investment.

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May 25-31, 2013

The Cagayan de Oro TIMES

Points of View

Culture and Commerce, will they ever mix?

ALA MODE Owen Jaen

I call Mindanao my big home. I never fail to announce how proud I am to be from this wonderful group of Islands.

I am continuously amazed by the merry mix of heritage, colorful customs and rich traditions that make Mindanao a much adored melting pot.

Throughout the years, this strong cultural background is what fuels local governments to bank on as part of their tourism attractions.

Festivals have sprouted all over the islands hoping to lure tourists to visit their localities and eventually propel their economy. Indeed, promoting local culture is a lucrative business but are we selling it right?

Have we made measures to ensure that what we promoted still holds the essence from which these cultural products are inspired from?

Perhaps some of the Local Government Units particularly in Mindanao have safety measures in place but they are only a speck in a vast landscape.

There are countless others both private and public agencies and entities that create productions, concerts, street festivals and celebrations based on their so-called local culture but actually projecting a vague representation of different cultures and inspirations even from neighboring Asian countries.

What is even sadder is that they then proudly label such as authentic, neo-ethnic and ethnic inspired festivities, dances or

music. This malady has been going on now for years and local cultural workers who know better have been harping about it but there seems to be no end to this problem.

What then seems to be the problem?

Is it because there are no existing strict regulations that protect and preserve cultural identities?

Or is it because people in the creative industry invoke their so-called artistic license to the point of blurring the lines between what is tastefully done and completely disrespecting the origins of their creations?

I have been immersed in local culture and arts since I was in grade school.

I have been to the indigenous communities in Agusan, Bukidnon, Davao, Cotabato and Zamboanga. I have heard their concerns and how others have “borrowed” their rites, their art, customs and traditions and make cultural products out of it in the form of dance, music, visual media and theatrical pieces.

These “borrowers” then make a living out of it and in the process modify, enhance and develop them to the point that it has become detached from its cultural roots.

In this day and age, we must be active in the call to protect and preserve the very identity from which we are all known for.

We must not wait for the time that too much fusion of western and local

The

CAGAYANTIMES d e O ro

CAGAYAN TIMES Publisher ROSE MARY D. SUDARIA, Ph.D. General Manager SHAUN ALEJANDRAE YAP UY Editor-in-Chief CHRISTINE CABIASA Associate Editor RONALD MASTAIL Art Director MIKE BAÑOS 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 Member: Cagayan de Oro Chamber of Commerce and Industry Foundation, Inc. (Oro Chamber)

JAEN | Page 10

Hammer and anvil

Mike Baños

No Vote of Confidence for June opening of Laguindingan Domestic carriers who will be affected by the Dept. of Transportation and Communications and Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines planned June 30, 2013 opening of the Laguindingan have again cast a vote of ‘no-confidence’ on the planned event.

According to a post in the PhilippineFlightNetwork.blog (URL: http://www.c h-aviation.c h/portal/ news/19076-filipino-airlines-hesitantabout-laguindingans-planned-juneopening) dated 21 May 2013, Philippine Airlines,, Cebu Pacific Air, Zest Air and PAL Express have all “expressed their displeasure at the Philippine Depar tment of Transportation and Communications' decision to forge ahead with the June 15 opening of the new USD190 million Laguindingan International Airport, set to replace the smaller Cagayan de Oro Lumbia (CGY) airport as the gateway to the northern Mindanao and Misamis Oriental provinces.”

Although the airlines had initially succeeded in convincing government to push back the original April 30

WORDS & NOTES Debbie Cabague

Have you ever been to a wedding reception or a party whose party host is almost like screaming all the time?

Instead of you enjoying you get irritated because of the high pitch tone.

Well I had my dose back then. It’s really unpleasant to the ears and I am just sorry for that person because it was a clear example of vocal abuse.

Now here’s something that you and I should know.

When a person speaks in a high- pitched voice or an exaggerated speaking voice he/she places unnecessary tension on the vocal cords and larynx.

In contrast, the healthy speaking voice is one in the mid range (neither too high nor too low) and one that allows a natural, comfortable flow of air over the vocal cords.

Other than singers and broadcasters the most abused voices are the teachers.

opening date "to minimize disruption to passengers and to permit more time to rearrange flight schedules" ostensibly due to difficulties in spreading the word to passengers who had already booked their flights for April and May, the 45 day postponement has apparently failed to convince all carriers the airport and its support infrastructure is ready to receive flights by the planned 30 June opening date.

The local business community led by the Oro Chamber and the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry Region X, continues to maintain its original stance to postpone the move to Laguindingan from Lumbia if the navigational aids needed for safe, all weather 24/7 operations have not yet been installed.

The group even went so far as to buy a whole page ad in a national newspaper just to make sure their word gets through to President PNoy. The reported lack of available power needed to properly operate Laguindingan’s facilities remains another BAÑOS | Page 10

How to Abuse Your Voice

As a precautionary tale allow me to tell a story about a music teacher who developed vocal “nodes”tiny- callous like “bumps” on the vocal cords.

The teacher’s speaking and singing voice became raspy and at times certain words couldn’t be phonated anymore and with that, the doctor’s prescription was complete vocal rest for Three weeks. ( No speaking for almost a month), the teacher got cured and the nodes disappeared because he obeyed the doctor but for other singers they had to go for surgery.

Afterwards the teacher realized the fragile nature of the vocal mechanism and the necessity of its conservation and care.

This same warning is for all of us too don’t you think? When we get caught up in a moment, yell or scream at ball games, concerts or simply when we

see our long lost friends. We do a lot of damage in a short span of time, so let’s try to be cautious and use our common sense in loud situations.

Let us not allow a moment of wild abandon cause a lifetime of vocal damage.

The next school year is almost here so teachers, please do take precautions and if you do not know how to modulate your voice here’s a practical tip... Get a flashlight, face the mirror and do a big yawn then as you do the yawning place the flashlight in front of your opened mouth observe the position of your “uvula” the one that’s hanging up in your throat.

The position of the uvula is up and that should be the case too when you speak, to give a full and bigger voice.

By doing this you will sound much better.

As the saying goes prevention is better than cure!

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Points of View SUPER BRANDING Harry Tambuatco

Post-Election Facts 2013

HEALTH IN FOCUS

Financial Doctor

Dr. Mary Jean Loreche

Dr. Adonis Agcopra MBA, RFC ®

Money and the Law of Correspondence

The Angelina Jolie interview on CNN and the cover story of a prominent magazine in the US of A, on her admission of undergoing a double mastectomy comes as no surprise at all.

The procedure itself is not that uncommon considering that I know of patients who have both breasts removed, as a precaution to the Big C. Our women are traditionally silent and would rather keep it close to their hearts, should they have decided for the removal of both breasts.

The bravery of women, including Angelina Jolie, in giving up a part of themselves, in order to ensure that they may live longer - for their children’s sake is truly laudable.

Having a mother with the Big C of the breast at still a younger age, and a positive result for BRCA1 gene, upped her risk for the disease.

There are certain basic data or knowledge that we need to understand about BRCA (breast cancer susceptibility gene): There are two BRCA genes, 1 and 2, with the former more closely associated with Cancers of the Breast, ovaries, pancreas and colon, while the latter is more associated with Cancers of the pancreas, prostate for men and melanoma.

In normal unaffected cells, these genes help ensure the stability of the cells’ genetic materials (we call as DNA), and help prevent uncontrolled cell growth. Remember that the Big C happens because of this UNCONTROLLED CELLULAR GROWTH. When mutation or changes at the cellular level occur, these changes are now linked to a person’s risk tendency for Cancer. Women who have harmful mutations in their BRCA1, have a lifetime risk for Breast Cancer that is 5 times higher than the general population.

Add to this risk tendency, a family history that shows mother, sibling, or relatives having the disease, early age at menstruation or late age at menopause , use of oral contraceptives, obesity, lack of physical activity, diet that is high in fat content and use of hormonal treatment, and BINGO!, you are IN BIG TROUBLE. Having one or more of the above factors should be reason enough to have yourself checked for susceptibility to the disease.

BRCA1 mutations is more common among certain populations like the Ashkenazi Jewish, Dutch, AfricanAmericans, Hispanic Asians.

Thus, it goes without saying that among us Filipinos, we may be more fortunate to have this type of genetic mutation not so common at all.

Genetic testing requires a blood sample submitted to the Genetics Laboratory for examination. A negative or positive result will then have to be treated with caution.

The test itself is kind of expensive and the importance of the information gathered will help the patient mostly on the choice of treatment options to manage their cancer risk.

For Ms Angelina, she chose a prophylactic procedure which involves the removal of both breasts, in order to reduce her chances of developing the Big C. This type of treatment option is sometimes done for ovarian cancers too, where removal of both ovaries and fallopian tubes is done.

Caution and an open mind on the possibility that even in the removal of both breasts or ovaries do not in any way give a 100% guarantee that cancer will not occur or recur (if present already).

The more conservative option which most patients would rather have is on the surveillance aspect. This is where screening tests are adhered to: clinical breast examination, mammography or breast ultrasound and regular visit to their friendly surgeons.

Screening tests are very accessible, affordable and so much more relevant to us.

Breast Cancer is still among the Top 5 of the C’s affecting our women.

Nothing beats awareness and early detection, for increasing one’s life expectancy.

“Your outer world is a reflection of your inner world.” – Anonymous

When you’re in Davao City, read...

With the growing complexity and multiple stresses of our modern world, a lot of people can simply allow having their personal lives deteriorate into a state of disarray.

If the members of a body are ailing, they easily account for an ailing being and this could make up an ailing society.

By the law of correspondence, what you are on the outside is indeed a mirror image of what you are on the inside.

It is extremely difficult to change other people. We cannot change others for our sphere of control is strictly limited entirely within our own selves.

It's ourselves that we can seek to change for the better. The best that we can do is to be a model of influence to help others change by and for themselves.

In the words of Jim Rohn, "Character isn't something you were born with and can't change like your fingerprints; it's something you weren't born with and must take responsibility for forming." Character determines our attitude.

The great Mahatma Gandhi echoed: "Be the change you want to see in this world!"

Our locus of control in life comes either from an external or an internal source. When we let outside circumstances determine our mood and disposition for the day, then we let external forces control the direction of our lives.

But if we seek to gain control of our inner selves and our attitude, then we can choose to be tranquil and happy each and every moment that we consciously choose to be.

In this world, we have individual freedom.

It's the way we responsibly use that freedom that determines what we become in our lifetimes.

Each person has the right to determine his own path, but each one should do so responsibly knowing that by the law of cause and effect, the consequences of one's choices will matter greatly and would be something that we have to inevitably live with.

Our choices in life are the causes, the persons that we become is the long-term effect.

Similarly, your inner attitude towards money will determine your outside financial world.

By the law of attraction, money is attracted to good stewards. As a great guru once said, if you seek to learn how to take good care of money, practice how to use and spend it wisely, and share the basic tenets governing its acquisition and redistribution, then you will attract more money into your life.

Let's constantly make the choice of becoming tranquil, happy and financially responsible individuals from the inside and it will all come out in the glow of our faces, the texture of our voices, and the good health of our finances!

Let's all choose to wake up each day with a smile sowing seeds of peace and happiness, and the whole world will be smiling back at us.

Let's do it now!

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

U R L : w w w. a f i c f i n a n c i a l c o n s u l t a n t s . c o m .

Email: aficfinancialconsultants@outlook.com.)

BusinessWeek M IN DANAO

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BRCA1 as a predictor for breast cancer:

Relevance in the Philippine Setting

The past election has determined what is now fact vis-à-vis what some may have perceived earlier to be our politics. While many seeming doomsayers have been criticized having a bleak outlook of the country and our politics – they have been redeemed somewhat with the outcome of this elections.

Without having to criticize the Comelec and its seeming inconsistencies and violations this election has for one; ratified the will of the people.

I may call this the tyranny of the masses but who am I to criticize the will of the majority, after all we have a democracy we cherish together with the freedoms that come with it.

Fact #1: Dynasties are acceptable and the majority of the people prefer these oligarchs in government to lead them. So there is a need to accept the fact that these dynasties will stay if not metastasize. Fiefdoms will be a sustaining platform for governance in the countryside as well as for the major cities that have now been penetrated. The absolute rule of one family and its titles will rule for decades if not centuries to come. The absolute rule and authority given these families will bear heavily on the judiciary for violations. The financial advantage and business model created out of the governance will create more wealth for the few.

FACT #2: There is no Catholic vote. The perceptions of many whose advocacy was to adhere to the Church and its teachings are no longer relevant.

The majority of the people are now independent when it comes to their politics negating the teachings of the Parish Priests who have become inutile other than the Sunday Mass and holy days.

Soon it will be Happy Holidays and no longer Merry Christmas. The concept up held by the Church claiming the Philippines is predominantly Catholic no longer applies and has been splintered into diverse break away groups called born-again.

FACT #3: The RH Law is here to stay after all this is what the majority of the Filipinos decided. This election determined with finality the majority of the people agree with a population control program for free abortifacients. Soon we will see heralding in; the abortion laws, same-sex marriages and even possibly euthanasia. Media has already sailed successfully into the deep waters of the gender distortions with the acceptance of the masses with their new celebrities whose gay attitudes are now main stream. While the road has been paved for these attitudes, it won’t be long before values and morals are delivered outside the teachings of the Catholic faith.

FACT #4: Violations towards our laws have become a commonality soon a virtue and a discipline rather than the exception. Be it for the authorities today that are above the law or even the comelec as in this election where violations have become acceptable be it for poster size violations, over-spending, vote-buying or worst of all the re-qualification of convicts, murderers and the incompetence to enter the realm of national offices. From here on in some are above the law especially those families who have settled well into government.

FACT #5: The AES Law is no longer applicable and is no longer worth the paper it is written into. The comelec has challenged the law towards safeguards that are no longer applicable as far as they are concerned. Forget the source-codes (that arrived late in the day), digital signatures, CF Cards that are writable, and so on. As for the watch-dogs who were born out to ensure the straight path for the comelec, they may as well dismantle as they are no longer relevant.

May 25-31, 2013

The Cagayan de Oro TIMES

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May 25-31, 2013

The Cagayan de Oro TIMES

Feature

May is Cervical Awareness Month

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY -- The Department of Health, pharmaceutical company Merck Sharp & Dohme (MSD), and medical societies, kicked off the Cervical Awareness Month dubbed as “Babae, Mahalaga Ka!” at Northern Mindanao Medical Center (NMMC).

As part of the campaign, 58 DOH retained hospitals nationwide including Northern Mindanao Medical Center in Cagayan de Oro, will offer free Cervical Cancer screening to women aged 30-49 years old.

“Gagawa po kami ng free screenings to DOH retained hospitals for cervical cancer, kase pagka po earlier natin na detect yung cervical cancer o yung reasons through screenings, na pre-prevent po natin siya through treatment.” (We will conduct free screenings to DOH retained hospitals for cervical cancer, because if we can detect the cervical cancer or the reasons through screenings, we can help prevent it through early treatment.), said Marge Villanueva, MSD. In Cagayan de Oro, free screenings for cervical cancer are done every second Saturday of the month from 1-5 p.m. at the Northern Mindanao Cancer Detection Center (NMCD), while the weekdays schedule is open in NMMC. This has been going on for the past three years, for those needing further tests may avail it at NMMC. Dr. Fe Marissa Mercado, OB-Oncologist and consultant of NMMC said that cervical cancer can be prevented through vaccinations and regular screenings.

To date, vaccinations are available commercially, but screenings through Pap smear or visual inspection using acetic acid (VIA) are always free of charge.

Just this year, PhilHealth also included the treatment for cervical cancer in the Z Benefit Package program.

Some 9,000 school girls aged 13 years old will also receive free quadrivalent HPV vaccinations from MSD. ( JCV/Mary Nathalie D. Soldevilla-PIA 10)

Supplementary Feeding Program continuously implemented in Region 10 CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office 10 (DSWD FO-10) continuously implements the second cycle of the supplementary feeding that started on October 2012 and has been on-going even during summer vacation to complete the 120 days feeding program.

Out of the 108,306 day care children beneficiaries, 14.4% were malnourished upon the start of the feeding program. It is expected that there would be a significant decrease of malnutrition rate among the children after completing 120 days feeding.

A total of 108, 306 children benefited from the feeding program with P 168,957,360.00 funds allocation.

This was made possible in partnership with the 93 Local Government Units in Region 10.

After the 1st cycle of implementation, malnutrition rate among the day care children beneficiaries reduced from 18.4% upon the start of the feeding to 7.58 % after the feeding with a total of 10, 361 day care children beneficiaries rehabilitated from malnutrition.

To date, a supplementary feeding program is also ongoing in four barangays in Cagayan de Oro City.

A total of 400 beneficiaries ages 2-12 years old malnourished children, identified by partner Legislators are also expected to have improved nutritional status by the end of the feeding program.

The Supplementary Feeding is one of the regular programs of the Agency to reduce malnutrition among day care children.

(Rechel Grace Ceniza/RTP/PIA10)

Coca-Cola Philippines 3rd football fest takes-off in May MANILA, Philippines —The country’s b e ve r a ge l e a d e r, C o c a - C o l a Philippines, reaffirms its commitment to healthy active living through the Coca-Cola Football Festival, which starts on May 4 -5.

The league, which is now on its third year, has over 180 teams or over 2,700 players across 11 categories to vie for championships as a result of the collaborative effort between Coca-Cola Philippines, Powerade, Makati Football Club, Alabang Football School, Alabang Country Club, and the NCR Football Association.

"Coca-Cola supports over 280 physical activity and nutrition education programs in more than 115 countries around the globe. Our football festival is a holistic program that aims to teach Filipinos the value of exercise, proper hydration, and a sensible diet,” says Atty. Adel Tamano, Vice President for Public Affairs and Communications, CocaCola Philippines.

Coca-Cola devised a three-step action-plan towards healthy actively living: think, drink, and move.

Tamano explains that to ‘Think’ means to be educated through CocaCola programs like their sports clinics and to ‘Drink’ means to carefully consider one’s beverage choices to aid in proper hydration. CocaCola Philippines has an extensive

When you’re in Cagayan de Oro, read...

portfolio of over 19 sparkling and stills beverages.

“While we have our flagship sparkling brand Coke, we also have Powerade, the official sports drink of the football festival that is formulated to have both carbohydrates and electrolytes to rehydrate and replenish minerals consumed during intense physical activity. And of course, we have water like Wilkins Pure for basic hydration,” adds Tamano.

‘Move’ entails action.

“Because all calories count, whatever food or beverage they come from, we believe that all our products, including Coke, can be part of a balanced and sensible diet once combined with regular physical activity. This is why Coca-Cola continues to provide the information, inspiration, and opportunity for people to get up and move through both grassroots and world-class programs, like the Coca-Cola Football Festival."

The Coca-Cola Company is now working on having active healthy living programs in over 200 countries operational by 2015.

The 3rd Coca-Cola Football Festival follows the 7A Side Football Format, which limits each team to 7 players. Only one team per club or school per division is allowed to join the cup.

“Here in the Philippines, basketball

remains as the national past time,” says Guillermo Aponte, President and General Manager of Coca-Cola Philippines. “But as our national football team took home recognition from international leagues, interest and love for the sport began to spread fast—individuals started playing in school football fields, vacant lots, even in the streets— and the growth of our league went alongside this trend. Coca-Cola is proud to be one of the first to support football in the early years through the festival.”

“We are encouraged by the fact that more individuals are taking interest in the sport with now an estimated 100,000 players nationwide according to our partner, NCRFA. Football fans can expect our continuous support moving forward,” concludes Tamano.

Coca-Cola Philippines is driven to make a meaningful difference in the lives of people, communities, and the world by championing environmental sustainability, women empowerment, and wellness.

Apart from football, Coca-Cola is also involved in other healthy active living initiatives, including a youth basketball league called Coca-Cola PBA Youngstars, which aims to impact 7,000 teens; dance, which reaches 20,000 participants; and running, which engages 700,000 runners.

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Feature

Sweeter future waits for Misamis Oriental’s coco sugar DAVAO CITY, Philippines - Barely five years in operation, an agrarian reform community’s coconut sugar products or more popularly known as “coco sugar” are already reaching the international markets - something that the Linabu Agrarian Multi-purpose Cooperative (LAMPCO) never thought would happen in the near future.

LAMPCO, a community-based enterprise in Barangay Linabu, Misamis Oriental in Mindanao was hailed as the top grosser during the Market Week Philippines 2012, a trade fair and showground of on-sale world-class items and products.

The cooperative is aiming to clinch a bigger market niche as it participates in this year’s International Food Exhibit (IFEX), the country’s largest gathering of international food processors, exporters, producers, and buyers.

The Mindanao Development Authority ( M i n DA ) i n c o o r d i n a t i o n w i t h t h e Departments of Trade and Industry (DTI), and Agriculture (DA) assisted 71 Mindanao-based food producers, exporters, and processors who participated in this year’s IFEX. “It was during our first IFEX participation in 2010 where we were able to close a deal with various coco sugar consolidators in Manila, demanding up to five tons of coco sugar per month,” said LAMPCO General Manager Maria Virgenia Pejoro.

She explained that the “IFEX deal” in 2010 is considered as a huge leap for the cooperative given their humble produce of at least three kilos per day when they started.

“We are currently producing at least 10 tons per month, and we are thrilled by this increased demand for healthy and organic sugar,” added Pejoro while announcing that LAMPCO coco sugar has an organic certification from ECOCERT SA; is carbon neutral certified, and FDA-approved.

Shifting to a sweeter livelihood Misamis Orietal, a province in northern Mindanao is largely coconut-based with JAEN...from Page 6 influences distorts our true Mindanaoan heritage. We must all help in trying to put it back into its right perspective. All of us have a role to play. These so-called cultural performances will never be mounted if there is no demand. Organizers both public c and private, choreographers and even dan cer s m u s t b e well educated in local culture and become empowered to help this noble cause. Lastly, the academe must also BAÑOS...from Page 6 unaddressed concern.

Transpor t facilities to move air commuters from downtown Cagayan de Oro to Laguindingan (39 kms. away, according to a local car rental company operating from a downtown hotel), remains another issue.

In fact, word has it even

READ !

GOING GLOBAL. Maria Virgenia Pejoro, General Manager of the Linabu Agrarian Multi-purpose Cooperative (LAMPCO) participates in the International Food Exhibit (IFEX), the country’s largest food showcase, which gathered more than 700 food exporters and global buyers from key regions and cities in Asia and the U.S. MinDA

most of the farmers relying on copra (dried coconut kernel) trading.

“Shifting to coco sugar was not an easy decision for the farmers since in producing copra, you only need to harvest mature coconuts on a trimester basis, while coco sap, the main ingredient for the coco sugar needs to be harvested at least three times a day,” she explained.

The Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) X, which provided the cooperative with the necessary technology and capital to jumpstart the production, introduced the production of coco sugar to the community.

Pejoro added that organic coconut farming was also an initial challenge, given how different it is from what the farmers have been practicing.

“This means a huge additional work for the farmers, but when they realized that it was a better source of income, they

take action and discourage school activities that become a bane to local culture.

Perhaps, when all of us have done our share then Mindanao will become stronger than ever as it firmly stands to protect its own culture, its people, its heritage while bringing in economic change and development. Other cities and nations around the world have been successful in blending development and culture, and then I believe there is still hope for Mindanao. local CAAP officials are not comfortable with the revised opening date.

What’s that old adage again? If everyone is against you, there’s a good chance that you’re wrong? I guess now would be a good time to revisit its implication on our collective and individual futures.

www.businessweekmindanao.com The CAGAYAN de ORO TIMES

eventually joined the loop,” she narrated.

Tons of coco sugar, packed by kilo and sachet, are now being produced by 49 sap gatherers/farmers, who are often joined by their family members in their daily harvesting routine.

“Sap gathering is also becoming a family affair in our community, and we have noted that the quality of lives of the farmers has significantly improved,” she fondly said.

After shifting to coco sap gathering, a lot of farmers in the area started buying motorcycles, which they use for daily commuting, while others were able to send all their children to school, without compromising their other basic needs.

Expanding market As part of LAMPCO’s marketing strategy, the cooperative used the tagline

“Coco Sugar: A Smart Way to be Healthy,” – a branding approach that DTI X created for them.

Both in the local and international markets, the main selling point of coco sugar is its low glycemic index (35) which makes the release of glucose to the bloodstream slower than the typical cane sugar. Coco sugar is also considered as the 'sugar for the diabetics.’

“Misamis Oriental-produced coco sugar has already reached Japan and some parts of Europe. This is a strong indication that Mindanao is reaffirming its position as country’s food basket and the leading food processing hub in the country,” said MinDA Secretary Luwalahati Antonino.

She adds that Mindanao’s participation to IFEX this year is designed for the islandregion achieve international recognition from its Asian counterparts and to close business deals with international buyers.

LAMPCO is also getting ready penetrate the English market with their expected first direct export deal of five tons of coco sugar to Britain.

“We are just overwhelmed by all these developments. Even our farmers cannot believe that their products are reaching other countries already," said Pejoro.

She also guaranteed that that the cooperative will have sufficient supply for the increasing demand for coco sugar since the cooperative is currently operating on a 15-hectare plantation, which can be expanded once demand significantly increases.

To date, coconut oil remains as the top export of the country's coconut industry, but as Pejoro noted, people are becoming more health conscious and are more willing to spend for high-quality and healthy products.

“We are confident that coco sugar will soon make a name for Mindanao in the global market. Looking back, it was a difficult start that required a lot of hard work. But seeing the sweetest results, I can say it was worth the try and the sacrifices,” concluded Pejoro.

Sun Cellular names the Company of Ateneo Dancers as its newest brand ambassadors

Mobile telecommunications Sun Cellular welcomes the Company of Ateneo Dancers (CADs) as its newest brand ambassadors, joining the telco’s league of brand representatives to the youth including the University of the Philippines Pep Squad, among others.

A group of students united by their love for art and strengthened by their love for God, CADs is the official dance group of Ateneo de Manila University who has made a name in the category of jazz and street dancing within and outside their school community.

“We feel blessed, most of all, to have this great opportunity for our organization, especially now that we are in our 20th year.

This partnership (with Sun) could really go

places and would help us actualize our dreams,” shares CADs Marketing Officer, Bettina San Luis.

“Knowing Sun is giving us so much support this year pushes our team to work twice as hard to represent Sun as well,” adds Bettina.

“We are happy to welcome CADs to Sun Cellular family. We made a good choice because they embody what Sun Cellular is about – young, vibrant and creative,” shares Sun Cellular Assistant Vice President for Marketing Services, Jocel Adorable.

For more information, visit www. suncellular.com.ph or Facebook page www. suncellular.com.ph.

Follow @suncelldeals on Twitter.

[from left ] Sun Cellular Assistant Vice President for Marketing Services Jocel Adorable and Brand Activation Manager Rolan Lagura (sixth and seventh from left) with Company of Ateneo Dancers incoming and outgoing officers Noel Narciso, Margarita Contreras, Gisella Velasco, Katrina Diploma, Angelo Gatmaytan, Bettina San Luis, Jon Chris Genato, Stephanie Ayson and Josh de Ocampo.

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Travel Feature

May 25-31, 2013

The Cagayan de Oro TIMES

11

The Night Stalker:

Pasiyo ta MisOr! L

ast Sunday, May 19, 2013, I undertook a trip to Misamis Oriental’s eastern towns and Butuan City with two friends that I haven’t done for some time. Driving our tiny Toyota Vios was Jerome Soldevilla, communications manager of Steag State Power Inc. (SPI) and with him in the front seat was his former colleague and boss, Hasan Guerpinar of Duisberg, Germany, who is now with Hitachi Power.

Our visitor likes our city so much he has been dropping by regularly every six months since 2008, but we’ve never had the occasion to bring him to this part of the country so after a hearty breakfast at Seda Centrio, off we went. First stop: Balingasag!

We drove by the impressive People’s Palace of Balingasag which was built during the tenure of incoming mayor Oscar Moreno and re-elected Balingasag Mayor Alexis Quina. Hasan remarked he liked the laid-back ambience of Balingasag, especially in the park and boulevard walk near the sea where I pointed out the bangus fish cages to him.

I think he likes it so much it just made his bucket list of one of the possible places to retire to.

OK so he likes Margies

Mantangale Alibuag Dive Resort

“Ah so this is a jackfruit”

From there we proceeded to Salay where we dropped by Jerome’s ancestral home and met his relatives. It was even more quiet here than Balingasag, it being a Sunday. Perhaps Salay is now also in Hasan’s bucket list.

Next stop was one of my family’s favorite places: Mantangale Alibuag Dive Resort. I introduced Hasan to our host Ms. Nana Malferrari-Uy, and then brought them around the huts at the beach and then again through the spartan but comfy accommodations. The birds were chirping and the guests hadn’t gotten around yet so we pretty much had the run of the place to ourselves. After taking some refreshing fruit drinks at their resto beside the swimming pool, off we went to Talisayan for lunch at the iconic Nita’s Place, an eatery which advertises itself as the “original” since 1972.

We ordered lapu-lapu sut-to-kil (sugba, tinola and kinilaw) and some shellfish soup which were deliciously fresh. Service was very poor though so expected to wait for your order to be cooked anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour, especially on weekends when there are many customers.

Lunch at Nita’s Place in Talisayan

Next up was Duka Bay Resort where Jerome introduced Hasan to his former schoolmate at Xavier University-Ateneo de Cagayan, newly minted Misamis Oriental Vice Governor Joey Pelaez.

Jerome explained they were together in the College Student as President and Secretary, respectively.

Too bad we didn’t have more time to enjoy Duka since we were hurrying to catch up on time since we still wanted to visit Butuan City.

An unpleasant distraction hampered the next leg of our trip, unfortunately. The stretch of the highway from Gingoog City to Carmen town in Agusan del Norte was being repaired/rehabilitated and it took us all of an hour to traverse that relative short trip, complete with dust, traffic and long stretches of the highway which were already broken up for rehab even if the nearest portion being reblocked was still at least 3 kms. away.

With newly minted Misamis Oriental Vice Gov. Joey Pelaez at Duka Bay Resort

Obviously a Curiosity

Checking out the park in Balingasag

The CAGAYAN de ORO TIMES

However, the trip to Butuan was worth it even if we spent most of our time at Margie’s Kitchen where we thoroughly enjoyed the cakes and brought some pastries to bring home (oatmeal thins, cornflakes meringue and lengua de gato) as well as the company of Jerome and my mutual friend, former Butuan chamber president Jun Galero.

Even if it took us another hour to negotiate that hellish piece of highway (Sta. Cruz, Magasaysay is particularly bad) on the way back, we made it back to Cagayan de Oro in two and half hours from Gingoog, still a good time all things considered.

All in all, a very cool Sunday with two good friends, couldn’t get any better than this.

Until Hasan’s next trip, perhaps we do the Western towns next time no?

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12

May 25-31, 2013

The Cagayan de Oro TIMES

Billboard

VILLAR LAUNCHES FIRST PLASTIC RECYCLING FACTORY IN THE METRO

Mr. Winchester Lemen (in green shirt), inventor of the technology processing plastic wastes into useable school chairs, shows Senator-elect Cynthia Villar and Las Pinas Cong. Mark Villar how the recycling process works during the inauguration of the first Waste Plastic Recycling Factory located in Brgy. Ilaya, Las Pinas. Lemen, President and CEO of Envirotech Waste Recycling, Inc., introduced the technology to Mrs. Villar who brought it from Davao to Manila.

Senator-elect Cynthia Villar wasted no time in fulfilling her promise of creating livelihood to the poor, while protecting the environment.

She, together with Las Pinas Rep. Mark Villar and Sen. Manny Villar, recently inaugurated the first Waste Plastic Recycling Factory in Metro Manila, which turns plastic wastes into durable school chairs that could last up to 20 years.

“We have a lot of plastic wastes here in Metro Manila. When disposed improperly, these result in clogging of our drainage and eventually cause flooding, spread of diseases, and many others. So we thought of processing these plastic wastes and come up into something useful. That is when I read about this technology in Davao, which processes plastic wastes into school chairs,” relayed Mrs. Villar.

Villar went to Davao herself to witness if the technology is really working.

“I have been using biodegradable wastes as resource in my other livelihood projects. I was so happy when I saw this technology, because now, we can also process non-biodegradable wastes, and

Nacionalista Party Sen. Manny Villar and Senatorelect Cynthia Villar check the school chair, a finish product of the newlylaunched Waste Plastic Recycling Factory located in Brgy. Ilaya, Las Pinas.

we have tons of them here in Metro Manila,” relayed Mrs. Villar.

Villar said she is very proud of this project not only for the livelihood it brings to the poor, but also to the environmental benefit it brings.

“In processing the unavoidable plastic wastes into something useful, like school chairs, we are not only cleaning and protecting the environment, but we are, at the same time, providing livelihood to the poor – to the workers in the factory who are processing the wastes,” said Villar.

She explained, the plastic wastes recycling factory located in Ilaya, Las Pinas City is a pilot project of the Villar Foundation.

Villar said if this project will be successful, it can be replicated in other provinces in the country.

Villar earned the moniker, Misis Hanepbuhay, because of her many livelihood projects built benefitting the poor.

Before running for Senate, Villar served as Congresswoman of Las Pinas for 9 years and became Managing Director of the Villar Foundation, where she continued providing livelihood projects in 200 towns and cities all over the country.