Boracay arrivals post 383,813 tourists
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

BORACAY - Tourist arrivals in Boracay Island registered 383,813 in the first six months of the year, according to the data of the Department of Tourism (DOT).
Of the total arrivals, 96,102 are foreign visitors while 271,498 are domestic travelers. The island also attracted 17,186 overseas Filipino workers in the first semester to this famed world-famous island.
Koreans accounted for 36.23 percent of the foreigners or 34,818 from January to June this year followed by Chinese with 11,584, Taiwanese with 8,074, Americans with 7,130, Hongkong nationals with 3,616 and Australians with 3,025.
Visitors from East Asian countries composed of Hongkong, Japan, Korea, Taiwan and China totaled 60,654 while the North and South America countries of Canada, Mexico, United States, Brazil, Columbia, Peru, Venezuela and Argentina numbered 9,842 followed by tourists from Western Europe countries of Switzerland, Germany, Austria, Belgium, France, Netherlands and Czech Republic with 6,909.
DOT data showed tourist arrivals in June reached 46,149 while the months of March to May posted 237,725. January arrivals posted 51,117 and February with 48,822 tourists.
Boracay, the perfect place for beach holidays, remains the top island resort destinations of the country with the opening of chartered flights from Korea and Taipei and soon-to-be international flights from mainland China by Shanghai Airlines this month in Kalibo International Airport.
The national government also entered into a 25-year P2.5-billion build-operate-rehabilitate-transfer with the Caticlan International Airport Development Corporation to modernize the existing airport facilities at the Godofredo P. Ramos airport (Caticlan airport), the main jump-off point to Boracay Island.
Last year, foreign visitor arrivals to the tropical Boracay Island reached 208,870, a 14 percent improvement from 2007.

The island also reported 634,263 domestic and foreign tourists in 2008 and P11.659-billion tourism receipts, mainly on attractive incentive travel opportunities of Asian travelers and other European outbound tourists.

Stand up, fight for truth, says Lozada

KALIBO, Aklan – Manindigan at Kumilos para sa Katotohanan held a forum on people’s search for truth with NBN-ZTE deal whistle blower Rodolfo 'Jun' Lozada, Jr as speaker at the Joselito Alba Vocational and Technical School (JAVTES) here.
Some 300 students of JAVTES, teachers, health and church sectors, councilors, government employees and members of Kadamay-Aklan, Bayan Muna, Gabriela, Anakpawis and Kabataan Party joined the forum.
"Aklanons, especially the youth and students must take the challenge to stand up and fight for the truth as a way to defend our country and their future," Lozada said.

Mr. Lozada also pointed out that if there is a dire need to wage another revolution, he will not hesitate to get involve and pitch-in whatever actions he can contribute in the name of truth, justice and genuine change in the society.
"Your electric bill is much higher than that of Japan!" Lozada stated when one of the participants asked him to share some tactics and strategies that can help Aklanons to go about the problems pertaining to power rates charged by the Aklan Electric Cooperative.

"If you don’t want to be tagged as ignorant, you must be braved enough to speak-out and move against this condition being brought about by this governance." Lozada added.

Aklan SP goes 'paperless' sessions
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL / Manila Bulletin

http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/209421/aklan-sp-goes-paperless-sessions

KALIBO, Aklan - Think before you print.
Vice Governor Gabrielle Calizo-Quimpo said the Aklan Sangguniang Panlalawigan is implementing a new system for an electronic or paperless session, wherein the agenda and minutes of every SP session are accessible through laptop computers.
The ordinances and resolutions could be immediately accessed instead of reproducing hard copies for SP members, she added.
"This is a program of the League of the Vice Governors encouraging all Sangguniang Panlalawigan in the country to adopt electronic or paperless session. A website of the Aklan SP will also be launched for the benefit and information where the public could access archived agendas, minutes, ordinances and resolutions of the legislative council," Calizo said.
The new system for SP members and the secretariat allow them instant access, through their laptops, the network server for electronic copies of proposed measures and resolutions. A widescreen is also installed in the Aklan SP gallery for the local media and visitors to follow the proceedings of the regular or special sessions.
The individual laptops will eventually replace the volume of papers every SP member receives during each session, making the Aklan Sangguniang Panlalawigan virtually paperless, she added.
"The reproduction costs will drop considerably in a paperless environment where the SP secretariat are working electronically to provide documents and reports to SP members," Calizo stressed.

A parallel training or dry-run was conducted during the 24th regular session on Thursday to familiarize the SP members and the staff with the electronic or paperless session.

Take it or Leave it
BY JUN PRADO

A Question of Ethics

If I were to comment on the now-raging debate on the controversial Right of Reply Bill, I would say that it is all a question of ethics.
This corner would like to express its two cents worth of opinion by citing a celebrated case some few years back when a congressional reporter, my good friend from the Daily Inquirer, Beth Pango exposed in a front-page article which said that during the hearing of a House Committee looking into the alleged participation of former Trade and Industry Secretary Jose Concepcion in that infamous Luzon Petrochemical scandal deal, some of his aides allegedly passed P1,000 in “crisp hundred peso bills” to newsmen covering the hearing.
The expose created a stir in media circles and prompted the National Press Club to conduct an investigation. After a series of closed-door hearings, nothing came out of the case. NPC officials explained later that some of the witnesses refused to cooperate so that the probe had to be called off.
The pejorative term, “environmental journalism,” has already become a common byword to those within the profession and outside.
This refers to a sum of money, usually placed in an envelope, given by some unscrupulous officials to some equally unscrupulous newspaperman.
The purpose of this “gift” is either – first, to have a story with a slant in his favor, to be written and published, or second, to silence the reporter or keep his from writing about certain things that he knew.
But if Beth Pango’s report was true, the newsmen who received the money have violated Section 5 of the NPC-promulgated Code of Ethics for Filipino Journalists. The following is the full text of the Code:
I. I shall scrupulously report and interpret the news, taking care not to suppress essential facts or to distort the truth by omission or improper emphasis. I recognize the duty to air the other side and the duty to correct substantial errors promptly.
II. I shall not violate confidential information on materials given me in the exercise of my calling.
III. I shall report only to fair and honest methods in my effort to obtain news, photographs and/or documents, and shall properly identify myself as a representative of the press when obtaining any personal interview intended for publication.
IV. I shall refrain from writing reports which will adversely affect a private reputation unless the public interest justifies it. At the same time, I shall fight vigorously for public access in information, as provided for in the Constitution.
V. I shall not let personal motives or interests influence me in the performance of my duties; nor shall I accept or offer any present, gift or other consideration of a nature which may cast doubt on my professional integrity.
VI. I shall not commit any act of plagiarism.
VII. I shall not, in any manner, ridicule, cast aspersions on, or degrade any person by reason of sex, creed, religious belief, political conviction, cultural and ethnic origin.
VIII. I shall presume persons accused of crimes of being innocent until proven otherwise. I shall exercise caution in publishing names of minors and women involved in criminal cases so that they may not unjustly lose their standing in society.
IX. I shall not take unfair advantage of my fellow journalist.
X. I shall accept only such tasks as are compatible with the integrity and dignity of my profession, invoking the “conscience clause” when duties imposed on me conflict with the voice of my conscience.
XI. I shall comfort myself in public or while performing my duties as a journalist in such manner as to maintain the dignity of my profession. When in doubt, decency should be my watchword.
To my colleagues in the profession, these are just some reminders and to the students attending the weekly Kapihan sa Aklan forum, these are some general rules to follow.

Aklan River dredging to start soon - DPWH
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL / Panay News / Manila Bulletin

http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/208926/aklan-river-dredging-start-soon

KALIBO, Aklan – The dredging of the silted Aklan River will start soon after the P100-million contract was awarded to Iloilo Builders Corporation (IBC), an accredited local-based contractor.
Atty. Mary Grace Lim, legal counsel of Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) regional office, stressed the P100-million fund was taken from DPWH Calamity Fund under Republic Act No. 9465 through the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) in its Special Allotment Release Order (SARO) dated June 3, 2009.
“It (P100-million fund) was directly released to DPWH secretary and sub-allotted to the DPWH regional director for the fiscal year 2009,” Lim made the clarifications during a committee hearing of the Aklan Sangguniang Panlalawigan on Tuesday.
Sangguniang Panlalawigan member Rodson Mayor earlier proposed a resolution protesting the action of DPWH Region 6 for bidding the P100-million from the President’s Social Fund without due consultation.
“After typhoon ‘Frank’ hit the province of Aklan on June 21, 2008, there was a concerted effort with the provincial government, DPWH and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for a survey of the Aklan River and the calamity-affected areas. The program of works was presented to Presidential Assistant for Western Visayas Raul Banias and that plan was adopted by DPWH,” Lim said.
When President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo visited Aklan after the typhoon, she committed to release funds intended for the dredging of Aklan River . The P100-million fund was released pending the approval of proposed Paglaum Fund to finance the rehabilitation and repair of typhoon-hit provinces in the region.
Lim also clarified that the dredging of Aklan River by IBC does not need an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) except for the hauling works.
“There was an instruction with DPWH regional director to implement the project. The contractor could proceed with the implementation after it was awarded on June 11, 2009, particularly the initial work of dredging the Aklan River,” she said.
As this developed, DPWH regional director Rolando Asis and Assistant Secretary Banias will discuss this week the dredging of Aklan River with Governor Carlito Marquez.

Chef Ulysses’ odyssey
BY DINAH S. VENTURA

He says Manny Pacquiao used to work in the restaurant he ran years ago, but this association with the world-famous boxer is not all that distinguishes chef Ulysses Chua, current executive chef at Boracay Regency Hotel.
Chef Uly, as his staff often refers to him, is responsible for reestablishing the flavors of Boracay’s first Triple A rated resort, turning the experience around for the average gourmand and, in the process, turning profits for the prestigious property.
Since he came on board in the second half of 2008, chef Uly has made inroads in changing the culinary landscape of Boracay Regency, which recently celebrated its 11th year in the business. He pored over the menus of the resort’s eight food and beverage outlets, changing or retaining as he saw fit. He instilled his brand of discipline in the kitchen and restaurant staff and reiterated that “service” is the key to a good dining experience right along with good food. He made sure the changes were made and that operations ran smoothly and efficiently. He had one year to prove himself, signing a contract with the resort.
Resort chairman Henry Chusuey gave him carte blanche, and the chef did not disappoint.
Raw beginnings
Just like the mythological Greek king of Ithaca after which he was named (Ulysses is another form of the name Odysseus of Homer’s epic poem, Odyssey), chef Uly made his way in the world by keeping his wits about him and being very resourceful.
A true “self-made” man, the Caloocan-born chef would say it was his childhood experiences that shaped him, but after a few chats it becomes apparent that it was also his will and determination that paved his future. “I had no home to call my own and no family to support me. I supported myself by doing odd jobs. I lived in a makeshift home and found a job in a Chinese restaurant when I was seven. I started in that kitchen and worked my way up from all-around boy to manning the stoves,” he narrates in Filipino. “There I found my passion for food and the restaurant business.”
Chef Uly did eventually gain his formal training, but by then he had the cooking and restaurant business down pat. He worked for various restaurants around the country, and even put up his own at one point. It was a grill restaurant offering zesty Filipino fare, a concept that bloomed ahead of its time. Today we see the same themes in restaurants such as Congo Grill or Gerry’s.
“I think I have been successful in my ventures because I strive to make whatever it is work. I always make sure that what I begin will flourish and will last. Blame it on a childhood where permanence had no place in my life,” he continues.
Passion for the grill
For all his experiences in the culinary world, chef Uly’s passion for the grill always comes to fore. When he approached Boracay Regency, he reveals, it was to present his idea for a grill place on the beachfront premises of the resort. “I saw the space by the gazebo and thought it would be a perfect spot for a grill station where guests can come up and choose from a selection of fresh seafood or meat and have us prepare it for them,” he shares. The chairman liked the idea, and before long chef Uly had joined the resort.
He found it a challenge to take charge of the restaurant — Seabreeze Cafe, Zhu Asia Cuisine, Cafe Cristina, MO2 Wave, the Asian food court and the new Gazebo Grill. Today, Seabreeze (where breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets are served) remains the topseller among the restaurants, followed by the Grill. He plans to develop the Asian food court next into an open kitchen/market type of dining destination.
A taste of chef Uly’s grill dinner at the Boracay Regency’s Gazebo Grill is a glimpse of the man’s culinary credo. “First, you have to define the concept of the restaurant you are running. Then you make sure the food is appropriate, consistent in quality and sufficient in variety. Next you work on keeping the service efficient and friendly,” he says.
The table groans with the plump, juicy oysters and mussels, prawns, fish, beef, pork and chicken wings, dipped according to taste in any of the chef’s home-made sauces: sinamak, Chinese sauce and lemon butter. The food is tasty and perfectly cooked, the servings generous. The plates are efficiently cleared and refilled, the glasses never empty. Conversation flows as the dinner progresses with casual camaraderie.
Regency team
After 11 years in the business, the Boracay Regency Beach Resort and Convention Center has grown in leaps and bounds, yet one thing that keeps its guests coming back is its quality of service. Chef Uly is right in maintaining that standard of service is key to a guest’s experience of any place.
For such an enormous property, the staff keeps it running as smoothly as a home. The people behind it, led by the visionary Chusuey, are mostly young and passionate about their work. They manage the day-today operations with cool efficiency, smiling and friendly in spite of all the challenges that come with running an enormous property.
New resident manager Dindo Salazar reveals that by the end of 2009, Boracay Regency will unveil the first of its new resort properties. “The Regency Lagoon, the second property in Boracay, is targeted to open by the end of this year. In three years’ time, we are opening the Bohol property. We are really growing, and we strive to continue giving guests the brand of service for which the Regency has become known.”
The Boracay Regency is still the biggest and widest property along the Boracay white beach. It remains the longest beachfront resort to date and, 11 years and 285 world-class rooms later, still proudly declares itself as the “resort with no lean season.”
Kai, VIP lounge and beyond
The secret, according to Henry Chusuey, is “satisfying guests’ expectations.” He says, “We give them an experience to remember in this beautiful island without charging them too much. Our continued search for improvements for quality service ad facilities being the total venue keeps us unmatched, and still a logical choice for guests.”
Indeed, the Regency strives to “keep on improving” so that guests get “a real vacation.” To do this, they give “great and tailor-fit service, value for money and a memorable experience.”
New in the Boracay Regency experience is the plush VIP lounge, free for guests staying in suites. Here one may relax in peace anytime of day, enjoy savories and sweets, hot or cold drinks and cocktails in the afternoon.
These days, vacation at the Regency will not be complete without the soothing experience at its new spa, Kai Regency Spa, the resort’s P50-million investment.
Beach bodies would benefit from a rejuvenating body scrub (the fruity scrub is recommended) and, while you’re at it, a body wrap, which would help zap those cellulite away. For those who prefer a relaxing massage that also detoxifies, choose the Aromalymph massage, which is best taken before you plan to hit the sack — it is that relaxing! Those who like a more vigorous massage will like the Kai hilot.
If massage is not in your agenda, you may want to try any of Kai’s foot or hand rituals. The Ultimate Foot Ritual will make you feel like a queen (or king) as you sit in a cushy chair and have your feet pampered by an expert. Your beach-tired feet will thank you for it.
For inquiries and more information, call Boracay Regency at (036) 288-6111 or (632) 523-1234. Seair flies daily to Caticlan. It has been flying in the Boracay-bound for 14 years now. Boracay is its main route and the fastest at 35 minutes. Seair, focused on “leisure travel,” prides itself for its Dornier 328 and Let 410. Call (02) 849-0100 or visit flyseair.com.

Caticlan airport development to spur tourism industry -Miraflores
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL / Panay News / Manila Bulletin

http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/208707/caticlan-airport-dev-t-spur-aklan-tourism

BORACAY – The private-led initiative to modernize the Godofredo P. Ramos airport (Caticlan airport) will spur tourism and economic development in the province and the island of Boracay.
Aklan Rep. Florencio Miraflores said the 25-year build-rehabilitate-operate-transfer (BROT) agreement was signed between Caticlan International Airport Development Corporation (CIADC) and the Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC).
Phase 1 of the Caticlan project involves the improvement and renovation of the existing terminal building and Phase II the extension of runway from 950 meters to 2,100 meters, he added.
"The modernization of Caticlan airport would benefit incoming tourists to Boracay Island with lower fares offered by airlines and enhance the safety of passengers bound to Caticlan," Miraflores said.
Kalibo airport, the solon said, will serve as the international gateway of travellers from China, Taipei, South Korea and other neighboring countries. Caticlan airport, the busiest airport in the region, is the domestic airport for local airlines of Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, Zest Airways, Southeast Airlines and InterIsland Airlines carrying inbound tourists to Boracay Island.
The developer is a George Yang-led consortium that will build road network improvement and upgrade the airport facilities and air traffic control aids of Caticlan airport, the main-jump off point to Boracay Island.
In 2008, Boracay registered 634,263 tourist arrivals and P12.7 billion receipts. Caticlan had 24,658 flights and Kalibo had 4,642 flights including regional flights from Incheon, Korea.

British national stabbed to death, wife survives attackBY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL / Panay News / Manila Bulletin

http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/208273/briton-killed

KALIBO, Aklan – Kalibo homicide investigators are investigating the death of a British national by unknown assailants who broke in his house yesterday morning. Paul Anthony Roberts, 61, sustained multiple stabbed wounds in his neck while sleeping in his bedroom in No. 65, Purok 2, Barangay Tinigaw, this town, Kalibo police chief Senior Insp. Arnolito Laguerta said.

The investigation revealed the victim was also hit in the head by a hard object.

At the time of the attack, Roberts’ wife Amy was spared but she was hogtied at the back by the suspects with a cord.
Although she was already hogtied, she managed to shout for help after the unidentified suspects fled the scene.
Supt. Georby Manuel, chief of Scene of the Crime Operation (Soco), described the killing as robbery with homicide case.

"The initial investigation showed no signs of forcible entry into the house, especially in the kitchen. We also lifted laten prints in the telephone and in the chair beside the body of Roberts. We could not still establish the number of suspects. The killing could be done by a suspect or suspects based on the extent of damage inside (the house)," he told reporters in a press conference at Barangay Tinigaw.
Police are now looking for the murder weapons - a knife and a hammer - they claimed the suspects used in the killing of Roberts.

At 5:30 a.m. Sunday, the couple’s maid and son Daniel Paul sought the help of their neighbor Tinigaw barangay captain Wilna Jizmundo through a text message upon learning that Roberts was killed.

Jizmundo, accompanied by his son Leonilo, rushed to the crime scene and untied Roberts’ wife.

Manuel said the jewelry box and attache case of Roberts were scattered in the bedroom, adding, the investigators also noticed traces when they inspected the vicinity of the crime scene.

Investigator PO2 Ephraem Pura, Jr. said the house was in disarray when they found Roberts in his bed at the second floor of the two-storey residential house.

Acting Aklan police director Supt. Anthony Maghari meanwhile ordered the police to exert efforts to solve the case and arrest the suspects swiftly. Teams from the Aklan Police Provincial Office, the Philippine National Police Crime Laboratory and the Crime Investigation and Detection Group also joined the investigation.
Amy, in a state of shock, was brought to a local hospital for treatment. The wife and the couple's household helper were invited later in the Kalibo police station to issue statements on circumstances about the death of Roberts.

The victim’s death happened three months after Roberts escaped an assassination attempt at Crossing Banga-New Washington in the capital town of Kalibo on the night of March 27, 2009.

Roberts was driving his Toyota Revo when he was suddenly approached and shot by motorcycle-riding suspects.

He was treated at the Aklan provincial hospital after he sustained a bullet wound on his mouth.

The British national is survived by his wife and three children.

Iloilo leaders to ask PGMA for P3-B Panay rehab funds
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL / Panay News

KALIBO, Aklan - Aklan Rep. Florencio Miraflores said Ilonggo leaders will ask President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo to start the massive rehabilitation of typhoon-hit provinces in the region.

Miraflores said the congressmen from Western Visayas headed by House majority floor leader Iloilo Rep. Arturo Defensor will meet the Chief Executive to push for the immediate release of P3-billion funds to rehabilitate and repair the infrastructures damaged by typhoon Frank in the region.

"The tax measure providing for a Simplified Net Income Tax Scheme (SNITS) to finance the Paglaum Fund is pending in the Senate. We have to look for other funding sources to start the rehabilitation and dredging of heavily silted Aklan River," he said over RGMA DyRU Super Radyo yesterday.

Last Thursday in Iloilo City, Miraflores said he discussed with Defensor, amid the delay in the Panay rehabilitation efforts of the national government, the possibility of President Arroyo's issuance of certification for the availability of funds from the Department of Budget and Management (DBM).
The solon stressed that the initial funds could start the Panay Island rehabilitation work once President Arroyo, who ended his four-day trip in Brazil, orders the DBM to release unused funds to speed up the repair of damaged facilities.
A year ago, typhoon Frank devastated the region leaving 557 persons killed and P14-billion damages in infrastructures and agriculture.
Aklan was the worst hit province triggered by the worst flooding and landslides in the towns of Libacao, Madalag, Lezo, Malinao, Numancia, Banga and the capital town of Kalibo.
Meanwhile, President Arroyo has certified urgent the proposed SNITS bill as the main source of fund to rehabilitate areas in Western Visayas affected by mudflows and torrential rains brought by typhoon Frank.

A Mediterranean paradise in Boracay

Imagine Monaco and you think of the second smallest country in the world that has been ruled by the House of Grimaldi since 1297, of the fairytale romance between Prince Rainier and Princess Grace, of Formula 1 Grand Prix, gambling and a tax refuge.
Monaco’s charm has rubbed off on those who have been to the smallest principality in Europe, its relaxed and carefree spirit evident in the Mediterranean design that has become so popular among real estate developers elsewhere in the world.
In the Philippines, the Mediterranean charm is fully captured in the only luxurious and exclusive all-suite resort villas in the island of Boracay – the Monaco Suites de Boracay, situated in a 16,000-square meter estate along a seaside hill.
The seaside property was developed by Jochen Buskowitz of Bendorf, Germany and his Cebuana businesswoman-wife Methuselah Palma following a vision to transport the Mediterranean spirit into the island. Monaco Suites de Boracay now has 14 villas and a Club House property consisting of 50 ocean-view suites that evoke the romance and cornucopia of smells, tastes, and colors that is the southern coast of Europe. Monaco’s casual and friendly lifestyle is also reflected in every suite’s bedrooms, fitted kitchen, bathrooms, spacious terraces or balconies with an unobstructed view of the sea.
The spacious units look out across the landscaped garden and a panoramic view of Bulabog Beach and Mt. Luho, Boracay’s highest elevation.
Monaco Suites de Boracay also boasts of a dolphin-shaped infinity pool, private access road, beach and docking port, an outdoor Jacuzzi overlooking the bay, on-site water sports activities – jet skiing, waterskiing, parasailing, wind surfing, kite boarding, banana boat ride, wakeboarding, fly fish, snorkeling and scuba diving, and a gym and holistic wellness spa, among others.
Carefree and casual, the Monaco Suites de Boracay blends with the colors and textures found in the surrounding landscape, with nature very apparent in the architectural elements.
It is located in Tulubhan, Manoc-Manoc, Boracay Island. From Kalibo, Aklan, it is a two-hour ride, and from Caticlan Airport, it only takes 13 minutes to get there – five minutes van ride from the airport to the Jetty-Port, and another eight minutes by speedboat. (ICdL)

Taiwanese girl under observation in Aklan for H1N1 flu

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL / Panay News

KALIBO, Aklan - A 12-year old Taiwanese national was placed under observation at Dr. Rafael S. Tumbokon Memorial Hospital (DRSTMH) after she developed possible symptoms of influenza A (H1N1) or swine flu.
Dr. Paul Macahilas, chief of hospital, said the patient had a fever when airport authorities brought her to DRSTMH.
"As a precautionary measure, the patient is under observation for influenza-like symptoms in the provincial hospital. A nasal or throat swabs sample from the patient will be send to the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM) for laboratory testing," he said in a local radio station here.
RITM is the only authorized facility recognized by the World Health Organization to conduct confirmatory swine flu strain results. The specimen results are available in three to five days, Macahilas said.
Kalibo International Airport manager Engr. Percy Malonesio said the Taiwanese national who arrived on Friday here from Taipei via China Airlines, was accompanied by her Taiwanese parents and co-passenger interpreter for a vacation in Boracay Island.
"The airport medical workers remain on alert for the possible entry of passengers with H1N1 virus. We continue to monitor the arrival, especially inbound tourists from direct flights abroad, and work closely with the government officials in monitoring carriers of influenza A(H1N1), " he said.
Kalibo airport is serving the regional flights of Mandarin Airlines, TransAsia Airways and China Airlines and the domestic flights of Cebu Pacific, Philippines Airlines and Zest Airways.
Macahilas said hospital nurses and attendants are wearing their masks after reports broke out about the province's first suspected swine-flu patient was admitted in the provincial hospital.
"The foreigner was found suffering from fever and still under close monitoring for suspected viral infection," he added.
Meanwhile, the 49-year old staff member in the House of Representatives, who died on June 19, was the country's first fatality of the influenza A virus.
Health Secretary Francisco Duque III has urged the public to practice proper hygiene thorough handwashing and covering the mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing amid the pandemic flu worldwide.
Nearly 60,000 cases in 113 countries and 263 were killed by swine flu, according to World Health Organization.

6cyclemind, Viva Hot Babes rock Tanduay Rhum Kalibo concert
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan - Catch the Tanduay Rhum on the Rock nationwide tour in Kalibo, Aklan with one of the country's premier bands, 6cyclemind today.

The concert tour for Tanduay brings the 6cyclemind bandmembers - Ronel 'Ney' Dimaculangan (vocals), Carlos 'Chuck' Isidro (lead guitars), Ryan 'Rye' Sarmiento (rhythm guitars), Robert 'Bob' Cañamo (bass), Tito Fortunato 'Tutti' Caringal (drums) and songwriter Darwin Hernandez with their hit songs, Magsasaya, Aaminin, Pwede and Gusto na Kita at the historic Kalibo Pastrana Park.

Adding to alternative pop rock crossover beats of 6cyclemind are Viva Hot Babes Hazel Cabrera where they wowed Roxas City on Friday night. The open-to-the-public concert is a way to thank loyal Tanduay drinkers and to promote the affordable local rum brand.

6cyclemind, formed in June 2001, released Permission To Shine album in 2003 featuring popular songs like Tanduay Rhum’s Rock Fest theme “Sige” and the heart-breaking “Biglaan”; Panorama in 2005 with Sandalan, I and Umaasa hit songs and Home and Fiesta in 2007 with cover songs Princesa, Upside Down, Home and Across the Universe under the Sony BMG Records Philippines.

Tanduay first contracted popular rock band to appear in several TV commercials with their top hits "Trip" and "Sige" in 2006.

6cyclemind is GMA's 2006 SOP Music Awards winner for Viewers' Choice for Artist of the Year and Viewers' Choice Song of the Year for "Sandalan," the 2008 NU Rock Awards for Band of the Year and finalist in the 2008 MYX Music Awards for Song of the Year (Magsasaya) and Artist of the Year and the 2009 MYX Music Awards for Favorite Group.

Aklanon author launches Filipino American book
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL / Panay News / Manila Bulletin

KALIBO, Aklan – Filipino American author Dr. Kevin Leo Y. Nadal launched his new book, Filipino American Psychology: A Handbook of Theory, Research, and Clinical Practice on June 25 at John Jay College of Criminal Justice in New York.

The book offers a comprehensive look at the psyche of Filipino Americans, the second largest Asian American/ Pacific Islander population in the United States with 1.37 million Filipino-born immigrants.
“The book is the first of its kind, and I hope that you will support it. I hope you will find that this book gives voice and representation to Filipino Americans,” said Dr. Nadal, the proud son of Engr. Leo and Charity Nadal of Numancia and Malinao, Aklan.
The New York-bred psychologist, performer and activist, Dr. Nadal will embark on a national tour in New York (June 25, July 11, July 15, July 17, October 2), Washington DC (July 26) Los Angeles (July 30-31), Irvine (August 1), San Diego (August 2), Toronto (August 5), San Francisco Bay Area: SF, SJ, Fremont, Palo Alto, Berkeley (August 20-27), Vermont (September 17) and Chicago (October 8-9).
“Filipino Americans are an ethnic group with a socio-cultural and historical experience that is unlike any other. They are the only ethnic group that has been categorized as Asian American, Pacific Islander, and Hispanic. However, California state laws require that all personnel surveys or statistical tabulations classify persons of Filipino ancestry as “Filipino” rather than part of any other racial or ethnic group,” he added.
The book also discusses the Filipino and Filipino American Families and Cultural Values, Racial and Ethnic Identity Development of Filipino Americans. Colonial Mentality of Filipino Americans, Filipino American Groups and Communities, Filipino Americans and the Model Minority Myth: Contemporary experiences in education, health, and society, Filipino American Experiences with Gender and Sexual Orientation, Multiracial, Multiethnic, and Adopted Filipino Americans and the Mental Health Experiences and Psychotherapy with Filipino Americans
Named one of the People Magazine's hottest bachelors in 2006, Dr. Nadal earned BA's in Psychology and Political Science from the University of California at Irvine and received his doctorate in Counseling Psychology from Columbia University.
As an assistant professor of mental health counseling and psychology at John Jay College of Criminal Justice- City University of New York, he has published several works focusing on Filipino American, ethnic minority, and LGBTQ issues in the fields of psychology and education.
In 2007, he led a vast international campaign against ABC Studios for the negative statements made about Filipino medical schools on the television show “Desperate Housewives.” A California-bred New Yorker, Kevin is also a stand-up comedian and spoken word artist who has performed across the United States since 2000.
He was a guest on Fox News Channel’s “The O’Reilly Factor,” and he has been featured on The Filipino Channel, the History Channel, Philippine News, and Filipinas Magazine.
Filipino Americans, Nadal said, have often been referred to as the “Forgotten Asian Americans,” because their presence has been invisible in psychology, education, humanities, and other social sciences.
In the foreword of Dr, Derald Wing Sue, “by examining history, cultural values, influences of colonialism, community dynamics, and intersections with other identities, the reader will have an opportunity to understand essential information about this population. Students will gain knowledge and awareness about Filipino American identity and personality development, while practitioners will learn culturally-competent techniques to become better counselors, clinicians, and educators.”

Nadal said the book also aims to promote visibility of this invisible group, so that 2.4 million Filipino Americans will have their voices heard.

Caticlan-bound Zest Air overshoots runway, no passengers hurt

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL / Manila Bulletin / Panay News

http://www.mb.com.ph/node/204225

CATICLAN, Malay, Aklan - No one was injured when a Zest Airways plane (formerly Asian Spirit) overshot the Godofredo P. Ramos airport (Caticlan airport) runway yesterday morning.
Kalibo airport manager Engr. Percy Malonesio said all scheduled domestic flights to Caticlan airport were temporarily diverted by the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) to Kalibo International Airport in the capital town of Kalibo until further notice.
Zest Air flight Z2-863, piloted by Captain Bernard Hervosa and Capt. Jeffrey Lim as co-pilot, carrying 55 passengers bound to the famous island of Boracay landed safely, but, got stuck in the canal near the provincial highway, airport officials said.

Malonesio said a CAAP investigation team would look into the Xian M60 incident en route from Manila to Caticlan when it lost control at around 7:55 a.m. Thursday on runway 24 forcing the airport authorities to temporarily shut down its operations.
Tourists bound to Manila had to be transported to Kalibo International Airport, about 66 kms from Caticlan, after the Zest Air blocked the end runway of Caticlan airport, it was learned.

Last January 2009, the Zest Air Chinese-built twin turboprop Flight CK865 also landed short of the Caticlan airport runway. At least 22 passengers were taken to a hospital for treatment.
Xi’an Aircraft Company of China Aviation Industry Corporation I (AVICI) develops the turboprop aircraft. Zest Air, Asia's refreshing airline, will be adding six more M60 aircrafts to expand its network and to establish domestic hubs in the country.
Caticlan Airport, the main-jump-off point to the premier beach destination of Boracay Island, is also serving the small planes of Philippine Airlines Express, South East Airlines, Interisland Airlines and Cebu Pacific.

The airport has 24,658 flights last year, making it one of the top five busiest airports in the country.

Take it or Leave it
BY JUN PRADO

The Bad News

The press in the Philippines has often been criticized for imbalanced reports by stressing the bad over the good news. The former strongman of Singapore, Lee Kuan Yew, in fact, offered an unsolicited advice that for the Philippines to achieve economic stability it should rid itself of free-wheeling and adversarial press.
In Singapore, as well as in Indonesia and Malaysia, the press is considered, not an adversary, but a partner or an accomplice of government.
In an article, “Different Views of Press Freedom,” Australian writer-diplomat John Milne said that in Indonesia, the government’s stated role for journalists is to provide a “positive interaction” among the three major components of the nation, namely the government, society and the press.
Indonesian journalists, according to Milne, are obliged “to promote public optimism for national development and exercise constructive social control.”
Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore, partners of the Philippines in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), do not have the free-wheeling press that we have.
Like Marcos and Suharto, Lee Kuan Yew who stepped down from power had an imperial rule over Singapore also for more than two decades.
In Malaysia, there is a strong state control of the media. On the other hand, the Philippines, after the departure of dictator Marcos, has fully recovered its press freedom as enshrined in our Constitution.
Writing bad news is one of the primary responsibilities of a democratic press. This will, of course, not endear media to the powers-that-be. “Nobody,” wrote Sophocles, “likes the man who brings bad news.”
But without the vigilance of media, how can shenanigans in government could have been exposed; the likes of the P100,000 Christmas bonus for each congressman, the construction of the presidential “Borloloy” palace, the multi-billion dollar called the Petroscam, the government’s unannounced NBN broadband deal worth millions of US dollars with China’s ZTE Corporation, the involvement of the First Gentleman with regards the WB-financed road construction projects, etcetera, etcetera.
The honorable Senators of the Republic would have imported their luxury cars had the media been on the government’s side as in the case of Singapore and Indonesia.
There are those, like Lee Kuan Yew, who asked that the media here in this beloved country of ours, should be tamed in order for the Philippines to grow economically. Not a few are saying that to strengthen democracy in this country, it is necessary to weaken the media.
According to them, the media has become licentious, indulging more in destructive rather than constructive criticisms and, in effect, aiding enemies of the State, the destabilization from the Left and the Right.
But a free press, as what Jefferson and other political thinkers have said, is one of the cornerstones of a democracy. Democracy cannot survive or only be a lip-service if people are gagged. The press should be the vital link between the people and the State institutions.
Without a strong and independent press, the public will have practically no way of keeping track of what the government is doing, as in the case of the Marcos regime. It was only after Marcos’ departure that Filipinos knew that their government had incurred close to $30 billion in foreign debt. Measures, therefore, that will limit press freedom, are dangerous. To clip media’s power is to embolden government functionaries to do what they want without consideration of the public good.
As Peter Stoler, in his book, The War Against the Press, says, by imposing restrictions on media, “the public would not only punish the press; it would also punish itself.”
Stoler adds that restricting the press may keep it from reminding people that they are less than perfect.
Weakening the press, according to Stoler, will strengthen the hand of government and allow it and its officials to conduct their business free from the scrutiny they so frequently find embarrassing.

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Vice President de Castro inducts PAPI officers for 2009-2011

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

The Publishers Association of the Philippines, Inc. (PAPI) elected its officers during its 13th Midyear Conference and Executive Session of Publishers and Editors at the Ayala Hall of the Makati Sports Club, Makati City on Wednesday afternoon.

Veteran journalist Juan P. Dayang, a native of Kalibo, Aklan and a columnist of Balita and Tempo, was re-elected PAPI president for another three years term.

Vice President Noli 'Kabayan' de Castro inducted Dayang and other PAPI officers - Rosario Lelia Chua-Sy of Northern Times (executive vice president), Mario Romero of Island Observer (vice president-Luzon), Nestor Abrematea of Tacloban Star (vice president-Visayas), Anthony Figueroa of Mindanao Times (vice president-Mindanao), Johnny Nuñez of Nueva Ecija Newsbusters (secretary), Estrella Gallardo of Bataan Headline (treasurer), Joseph Llazar Punay of Alpha Times News (assistant secretary treasurer) and Nelson Santos of Finders Ads and News (auditor).
The directors are Paterio Sigue of Island Observer and Wilfredo Bersanio of Brigada Pahayagan Malaya for Luzon, Boy Ryan Zabal of Aklan Media Forum and Andy Manatad of Advantage Magazine for Visayas and Camcer Ordoñez of Sunstar Zamboanga and Roger Flaviano for Mindanao.
De Castro, the guest of honor and speaker of the annual gathering of journalists, urged the community media to strengthen and sustain the press freedom advocacy towards national development and progress.
Dayang, who has been at the helm of PAPI for more than 13 years, said the two-day conference under the theme, "Media and the 2010 elections: Challenges and Opportunities," reaffirmed the leadership of PAPI in preserving the ideals of justice and democracy with the dynamic community press as vanguards of press freedom and the dignity of journalism.
PAPI, the largest organization of community editors, columnists, correspondents, publishers and broadcasters in the country, was organized in 1974. In 1995, former National Press Club secretary Dayang took over this prestigious organization.
President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, in 2006, has declared December of every year as "National Press Congress Month and the Month of Community Press in the Service of the Nation" under presidential Proclamation No. 1187, citing PAPI's dedication in the promotion and defense of press freedom to the lofty ideals of journalism as a public service, especially in the countryside.

Guinto out, Maghari takes charge of Aklan PNP

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL / Manila Bulletin / Panay News

KALIBO, Aklan - Outgoing Aklan police director Senior Superintendent Clarence Guinto will be reassigned at the National Capital Regional Police Office (NCRPO).

Supt. Anthony Maghari, deputy provincial police director, is designated as officer-in-charge of the Aklan Police Provincial Office (APPO).

The formal turn-over of command and press conference with the local media are scheduled tomorrow at Camp Pastor Martelino.

Guinto dismissed allegations that his relief has to do something with the abrupt relief of Boracay's police chief and four other policemen last month.

"The relief has nothing to do with the land dispute in Boracay Island involving security guards of a resort. I consider this relief as a promotion. I would welcome the relief order from higher authorities as outgoing Aklan police director," Guinto clarified.

Last month, Supt. Arnold Ardiente, former chief of Boracay Special Tourist Protection Office (BSTPO) was relieved of his post on alleged illegal arrest and partial investigation of two security guards of Winace Resorts.

Ardiente and his four BSTPO personnel are assigned at the Police Regional Office 6 in Camp Martin Delgado in Iloilo City after their month-long training at Clark Field in Pampanga.

Guinto said he was among those consider by the Philippine National Police (PNP) to replace the six suspended police officers by the National Police Commission (Napolcom) for violating police procedures in the investigation of the death of Trinidad Etong, wife of broadcaster Ted Failon.

Guinto, a lawyer and a member of PNP Academy Class of 1983, started thanking the local media and his police personnel for contributing to the success of his seven-months stint as Aklan police director.
He was also credited for his successful security plans of the Ati-Atihan festival and instituted projects like the ongoing Integrated Transformation Program (ITP) for police officers and construction of a P10-million three-storey modern police building in Camp Pastor Martelino.

Enjoying the finer things in life
BY RAOUL J. CHEE KEE

It’s crowded, it’s noisy, it’s "Greenbelt with sand."
Say what you want about Boracay but I won’t think twice about taking a few days off to "recharge my batteries" in this island paradise.
There was even one year when I experienced Boracay during the rainy season. The makeshift wind barriers made of bamboo grids and industrial strength plastic were already up by the time we arrived in August, and the residents shared this collective look, like they were determined to ride out the stormy days ahead.
The guestrooms at Shangri-La’s Boracay Resort & Spa are decked out in rich earth tones and vibrant pops of color; guests are brought to the resort on one of four speedboats and the infinity edge pool with a built-in Jacuzzi located near Banyugan Beach is perfect for hour-long soaks.
Most of that weekend was spent indoors, where we snacked, napped or booked a massage. During the few times the sun managed to break through the clouds, however, there would be a mad rush to the beach where it seemed like everyone — pets included — was frolicking in the surf.
On my last trip, however, we stayed at the newly opened Shangri-La’s Boracay Resort & Spa. From the moment we got off our plane at Caticlan, we knew we were in for a treat.
Instead of boarding one of those small but serviceable motorized boats, we were led to a private beach where one of the resort’s four spanking new speedboats waited.
Even if the waters were choppy that late afternoon, we practically glided to our destination, the beach at Fairways & Bluewater. Usually, guests are dropped off at resort’s own boat jetty but the yearly habagat made that impossible. From there, we hopped on a van that took us to Shangri-La.
There was nothing much to do that evening except lounge around in our beautifully appointed room and check out the views from the Lobby Lounge. After an early dinner at Vintana, the resort’s coffee shop, we headed back to our room at the newly-opened Timog wing.
The wing was built flush against the side of a cliff so guests who are billeted there have a view of the Punta Bunga beach. Situated higher above Timog are the Tanawin Villas that are still undergoing finishing touches.
Sprawling design
Unlike Shangri-La’s Mactan Resort & Spa that follows a more or less compact design, the Boracay property, with 12 hectares of grounds that are home to a number of wildlife species including bats and monkeys, is sprawling. The Timog and Hilaga wings consist of guestrooms while Kanluran, Palmera and Tanawin are made up of villas, some with their own lap pools.
When enjoying the views of the reception area from the Lobby Lounge, steer clear of the reflecting pools.
Once everything is finished, the resort designed by the Hawaii-based architecture firm WATG will have a total of 219 rooms and 36 villas and suites. The interiors that combine a stunning variety of earth toned textures with pops of brilliant color are by Singapore-based LTW Design Works.
The following morning, we slathered on our sunscreen and were at the poolside by 8 a.m. The resort has several to choose from located but we were drawn to the infinity edged pool that "spills over" the beach and spent over an hour there, emerging only because we knew that the breakfast buffet at Vintana would close at 11 a.m.
The resort has several other dining options including the poolside restaurant Cielo that serves salads, sandwiches and pizzas; Sirena with its selection of seafood preparations; and the two bars, Solana and Alon.
Guests in the mood for some world-class pampering can book a treatment or three at Chi, the spa at Shangri-La that occupies 6,000 square meters.
The great thing about going on vacation is the fact that there isn’t any fixed itinerary. After brunch, we headed back to the room and promptly had a nap.
Now, my friends and I have come up with a checklist of things to do when we’re on Boracay. Aside from strolling at sunset down the stretch of sand that is White Beach, we make it a point, at least once during our stay, to order a fruit shake at Jonah’s or calamansi muffins at Real Coffee.
We were able to accomplish all these later that afternoon but somehow, we found ourselves rushing to get back to the resort. I guess exposure to the finer things does that to a person.
Shangri-La’s Boracay Resort & Spa is at Barangay Yapak, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan. For inquiries, call (6336) 288-4988 or visit www.shangri-la.com.

Typhoon 'Frank' survivors commemorate 'unfaithful day'
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL / Manila Bulletin / Panay News

KALIBO, Aklan - Thousands of Aklanons joined the provincial government in commemorating the typhoon 'Frank' anniversary with a medical/dental mission, thanksgiving mass and concert at the park yesterday.
More than 5,000 typhoon survivors trooped to the Gov. Augusto B. Legaspi Cultural and Sports Complex to avail of giftgiving, medical check-up, haircut, shiatsu and supplemental feeding from civic and non-government organizations.
Super typhoon 'Frank' devastated the province of Aklan on June 21, 2008 leaving 53 people killed by mudflows triggered by torrential rains and landslides. At least P2.012-billion worth of infrastructures, public utilities and agricultural crops were destroyed, a report of the Provincial Disaster Coordinating Council (PDCC) showed.

Last year, Aklan Governor Carlito Marquez urged all Aklanons to look for opportunities despite the calamity in Aklan, the worst-hit province in Panay Island.
Aklan Rep. Florencio Miraflores also called for the immediate plans to dredge the silted Aklan River to minimize the perennial flooding of low-lying barangays in Kalibo, Numancia, Banga, Lezo, Malinao, Libacao and Madalag.

President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, who visited the province twice, distributed relief assistance to displaced families and oversee the rehabilitaton of damaged infrastructures in Aklan.

A week after the typhoon, a contingent from the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) with heavy equipments arrived in Aklan to help in the clearing of clogged drainages and waterways. 'Task Force Kapatid' of the Aklan Electric Cooperative (Akelco) and the Metro Kalibo Water District also restored power and water services in typhoon-affected areas in Aklan.
The thanksgiving day entitled "Triumph Over Frank" is a celebration of the strong spirit of every Aklanon in overcoming a formidable nature's wrath that typhoon 'Frank' brought last June 21, 2008.
The commemorative event was supported by the Aklan Medical Society, Aklan Pharmacists Association, Department of Health, Philippine League of Government and Private Midwives, Inc. – Aklan Chapter, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Aklan Dental Association, Aklan Nursing Association, the Philippine Army and the 601st Community Defense Center.

Boracay leisure redefined

BY LESTER GOPELA HALLIG

When we attended the groundbreaking of Fairways & Blue-water in Newcoast, Boracay many years ago, we knew that the property held so much promise. It had all the potential to become a truly world-class resort community. We were already loo-king forward to the amenities and offerings that it promised to deliver.
Fast-forward to 2009. The Residences at Fairways & Bluewater has evolved into a Boracay byword. There is no getting around the island without hearing about the resort. In this age of crowded beaches and rowdy beachgoers, enjoying your own moment at your own pace — yes, the way we like it — is our idea of rest and recreation.
And so it is at The Residences at Fairways & Bluewater where living up and living out one’s Boracay dreams are realized. Now a full-fledged resort, The Residences at Fairways & Bluewater has something for every type of guest to enjoy.
Its size alone — one-tenth of Boracay’s land area, making it the biggest resort on the island — gives away the endless possibilities on offer. It has two beaches, the East and the West. Each beach has its own personality, with the East Beach known for its fantastic sunrise and the West Beach for its sublime sunset. Even the activities are distinct for each: the East invites quiet solitude while the West comes alive come nighttime.
It has private beach coves where guests can swim and sunbathe privately without the noise and disturbance of the typical Boracay crowd. Guests who want to do more than just laze under the sun can have it all. The resort has jet skiing, scuba diving, water skiing, snorkeling, parasailing, mini-cruising, fishing, island cruising, and windsurfing facilities.
Guests who have a more laidback approach to their holiday can dive in the grand swimming pool, which boasts of its own waterfalls. They can also go horseback riding. Soon, The Residences at Fairways & Bluewater will open what is touted to be the biggest pool in Boracay.
Just last March, The Residences at Fairways & Bluewater launched the new Maris Spa with its president and owner Adrian Yun. An amphitheater that caters to social and private functions opened in May.
“We want to make sure that our guests are satisfied with our services,” says Joey Bernardino, vice president for operations of Quantum Hotels & Resorts, which oversees the sales and marketing of The Residences. “We continue to provide first-class amenities and international-standard guest services through The Residences.”
A closer look at The Residences reveals distinct accommodations for its guests. For starters, the Mulligan Golf Hotel provides a more tranquil atmosphere with complete amenities.
“Apart from the spacious and elegant accommodations, it also facilitates a Welcome Center in Caticlan, where guests waiting to be ferried to the resort can relax in style, complete with an ice-cold drink at the lounge and bar,” Bernardino shares.
On the other hand, the Balaihara and Ysabel by Villas on the 9th feature stylish villas with well-appointed guestrooms ideal for rest and recreation. Yes, both have decks overlooking the expansive greens of the resort. There are shuttle services that transport guests in and out of the property.
“They are conveniently situated close to tee-off points and the world-famous white sands of Boracay,” Bernardino points out. “The completion of modern, elegant villas in Maria also sets The Residences apart from the others.”
Of course, one more reason why The Residences at Fairways & Bluewater has become a landmark in Boracay: the golf course.
“The Residences at Fairways & Bluewater is the only full-fledged destination property that boasts of an 18-hole Par 72 world-class championship golf course. It is here where the Johnny Walker Cup was held and the recent Goma Cup,” he notes.
The world-renowned Graham Marsh designed the golf course. It stretches 6,000 yards, and has earned a reputation for testing golfers with its difficult greens and tricky hazard placements.
Whether it is the blue sea or the green course, The Residences at Fairways & Bluewater promises to redefine one’s idea of a perfect Boracay experience.

Looming power shortage alarms Aklanons, local execs
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL / Manila Bulletin

KALIBO, Aklan - To avert the looming electricity shortage in the province, local officials and Aklan Electric Cooperative (Akelco) consumers ask President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo to reconsider its energy power supply contract with the National Power Corporation (Napocor)
The termination of the power supply contract on June 25, 2009 will result to regular brownouts and shortage of power supply in the franchise area of Akelco and in the Cebu-Panay-Negros Grid, they stressed.
Aklan Governor Carlito Marquez said he will meet with Energy Secretary Angelo Reyes to address the alarming power situation of the province. Akelco general manager Chito Peralta and Aklan Rep. Florencio Miraflores will both attend the meeting in Manila.
Akelco, which services the entire Aklan province and part of Antique, said it could source out the electric power energy deficiency from the Salcon Power Corporation, but, at P14 per kilowatt hour, excluding the system loss charges for higher generation cost of Salcon Power Corporation, an independent power producer that operates mainly in Panay Island .
Salcon is the new owner of Panay Diesel Power Plant 1 and 3 in Dingle, Iloilo . At present, Akelco also draws power from Global Business Power Corporation plants in New Washington and Nabas at an inclusive blended rate of P8.8131 per kilowatt hour.
The urgent appeal stressed that the electric cooperative refused to pass on the prohibitive burden to its member-consumers and simply will not let go the situation without seeking a fair and just remedy.
"The continuity of the Transition Supply Contract (TSEE)/Contract for the Supply of Electric Energy (CSEE) and the unhampered availment by Akelco of Napocor's government-subsidized power rate is the most ideal situation for Akelco. It's the only logical and plausible solution in keeping the power rate still on board," the appeal added.
Napocor, in its letter dated May 5, 2009, urged the electric cooperative to start negotiating with an independent power producer to supply the energy requirements starting June 26, 2009.
Napocor president Froilan Tampinco said the Napocor will renew TSC/CSEE only up to June 25, 2009, despite, it was renewed before its expiration date on December 2008.

Akelco, a Class A (Mega Large) electric cooperative, has 101,948 member-consumers and 91,932 household connections in 363 energized barangays in Aklan and Antique last year.

VP de Castro to address 2009 Media Press Summit

Vice President Noli “Kabayan” De Castro will address the 2009 Midyear Media Conference and 13th Executive Session on June 24 at the Makati Sports Club in Makati City.
A member of the Fourth Estate and a multi-awarded TV broadcaster before making his foray in public service, De Castro will speak before members of the community press attending the annual media summit hosted by the Publishers Association of the Philippines, Inc. (PAPI), which has “Media and the 2010 Elections: Challenges and Opportunities” for this year’s theme.
Participating members of the media includes publishers, broadcasters, editors, press club officers, including school campus journalists, public and corporate affairs executives, said PAPI President Juan P. Dayang.
Dayang said that as part of PAPI’s continuing advocacy, a community press leadership forum for candidates for president of the 2010 elections will be held as the main feature of the 2009 Midyear Media and Executive Sessions on June 24 at the Makati Sports Club with De Castro as among the guests together with other “presidentiables” for the May 2010 elections.
The forum will joined by prominent journalists from regions of Mindanao, the Visayas, and Luzon as panelists.
“Our country is at the crossroads of change and electing a new president is historic and of utmost importance. In more ways than one, the press in the provinces articulates the voice of the people in the countryside,” Dayang said as he stressed that the forum can effectively serve as a vital link in bridging the people’s expectations and the candidates’ intended program of government.
De Castro, in a statement said: “One again, the PAPI has responded well to the call of its time-honored role in democracy.”
He said it is significant that both elements are among the primary advocacies of PAPI thus reaffirming the organization’s role as a vanguard of press freedom in our country.
“As you hold your annual Executive Session and Midyear Conference, I take this opportunity to thank the leadership and members of PAPI for your continuing commitment to this role. Your presence is the guarantee that the rights and freedoms of every Filipino are upheld and viewed with the highest regard. I salute you,” De Castro stressed.
Meanwhile, Supreme Court Chief Justice Reynato S. Puno said the public deserves to know the issues and information about the candidates in the 2010 national election.
“It is only with sufficient information about the candidates can we say that the people are truly free to vote,” the Supreme Court chief magistrate said, adding, the dialogue with those seeking the presidency would benefit the people.
Through its press summit this year, Mr. Chief Justice Puno stated: “PAPI has once again accentuated its dynamism and idealism as a potent and unifying forces in helping strengthen the bonds of unity, progress and prosperity. The media plays a very important role in the lives of Filipinos across the nation--with this conference, the Filipino people is sure to benefit.”
Chief Justice Puno, who was guest of honor and inducting officer of PAPI at the Manila Hotel convention, pointed out that: “PAPI no doubt added more dept, meaning, and substance to a responsible exercise of freedom of the press as a keystone of our time-honored democratic values.”

Kalibo holds “Larolympics” for children
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL / Manila Bulletin / Panay News

KALIBO, Aklan – The town of Kalibo is supporting the initiative of Anak TV Foundation to re-introduce street games and to promote wholesome and family-oriented television programs.
Mayor Raymar Rebaldo said the sports event is designed for the children to bring them back to the playground for more healthy and uplifting activities geared towards their well-rounded development.
“In partnership with the Anak TV Foundation, we fully support Larolympics because recent data show, and we have actually observed that our new generation are now hooked with television and computers. They spend most of their idle time just sitting with no physical and interactive activity that will help them grow into healthy, nationalistic and socially active citizens of the future,” he stressed.
The town of Kalibo is one of the towns and cities in the country pushing for more outdoor activities by reviving street and indigenous games for Chikiting class for boys and girls aged seven to 10 and the Bagets class for kids aged 11 to 14.
Anak TV Foundation, a foundation of all television networks promoting child-friendly programs, is in the forefront of the inter-city and regional tournament ‘Larolympics’ to discourage kids from indulging on TV and the internet.
Rebaldo said the patintero, locally known as Ins, Piko (Step Not, played by girls) and tumbang preso (Tumba Patis in Aklanon) will be staged at the Kalibo Magsaysay Park from June 20 to 21.
The foundation also conducted Anak TV Screening of Child-Friendly Programs at the Kalibo Municipal Social and Conference yesterday.
The cities of Baguio, Tagaytay, Tagum, Davao, Bacolod, Makati, General Santos, Butuan, Olongapo, Marikina and Iloilo and the towns of New Lucena, Iloilo and San Mateo, Isabela also supported the Anak TV Foundation activities for more outdoor activities for their children.

Kalibo Food Festival @ Magsaysay Park kicks off June 19
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL / Manila Bulletin

KALIBO, Aklan - If you're a gourmet enthusiast or you just love to hear the sounds of the hottest rock and alternative bands, this mid-year festival is a must-see for you.

The 2009 Kalibo Food Festival @ Magsaysay Park opened its five-day event featuring the signature menus catered by 24 restaurants while you listen to live music entertainment from June 19 to 23.

Organized by the Kalibo Ati-Atihan Tourism Council (KATC) and the local government of Kalibo headed by Mayor Raymar Rebaldo, the festival is Kalibo’s other tourist attraction (the other is the famous Ati-atihan Festival) to coincide with the feast day of the town’s patron saint, St. John the Baptist, on June 24.

Set in a barrio fiesta theme, the vibrant food culture of this capital town takes centerstage with a thanksgiving mass at the St. John the Baptist Cathedral and a motorcade to highlight the grand opening at the Kalibo Magsaysay Park .
The food festival began in 1996 at Kalibo’s S. Martelino Street fronting the historic Kalibo Pastrana Park . Through the years, it has become a tourism come-on of the town, aside from the annual Señor Sto. Niño Ati-Atihan Festival every third week of January.
Last year, KATC cancelled the 13th year Kalibo Food Festival sa Kalye after super typhoon ' Frank' devastated the province of Aklan with mudflood and torrential rains on June 21, 2008.

The KATC members participating in the food fest are Seafront Bread Shop, Hernanis Mix 'n Match, Mezzanine Cafe Bar and Restaurant, Kusina sa Kalibo, Green Onions, Helen's Cake Gallery, Kitty's Kitchen, Daks Roast and Ribs @ La Esperanza Hotel, Garcia Legaspi Mansion, Adee's Catering Services (Oro Grill), Richard & Benjie Unlimited, Trims Food Products, BBQ Republic, Ramboy's Lechonan and Restaurant, Tokanz LaPaz Batchoy, Joys Food Stuff, Seafood Lovers, Nino's Ihaw Ihaw, Michsus Food Treats, Bakhawan Inn, U.E.P. Entertainment Promotion, Judith's Pension and Ting-Ting's Catering Services.
This year, the fest for food lovers features participating bands from Aklan and Iloilo – Cross Over, Boracay Republic, Katukamos, Tribo Ambo, Simple Play, Numbers, Sacrament, Hyper Jam, N.Y.P.P., Where's Charlies, Nickvans, Smokez ‘n Coffee, Por Nada, Totong Villaruz, Broad Band, Aya and Yul Love Team, Michael Regalado and Sunny Aliling Band.

MTV VJS TELL IT ALL . . .
The making of an awesome holiday

When asked to describe their ideal holiday, MTV Asia’s VJs make known make without hesitation, these quintessential requirements . . .“A volcano, a mountain range and un underground river, a long stretch of powdery white beach, mummies inside hanging coffins, the world’s largest fish and a sunset that is too beautiful no to be imprinted in one’s memory . . . ” while it may sound like a tall order for one holiday destination, there is one location that can offer all this and more—The Philippines.
Recently, VJ Taya and VJ Teppei visited the country and much to their surprise, found more than enough interesting places where they where able to put up their feet to relax, as well as engage in supporting activities like wakeboarding.
“It was my first time in the Philippines and it was simply awesome!” were the exact words that came out of VJ Taya during one of her first visits to the island. Her Boracay sojourn was a more than needed reprieve from her hosting duties as MTV.
“The fine white sand of the beach in Boracay stretches for miles and caresses your toes like talcum powder. There’s also a wide array of beachside resorts, bars and restaurants to cater to your every gastronomic whims. And of course, the friendly people who are always quick to extend a warm smile make you feel like you are right here at home. It definitely has exceeded my expectations,” she enthuses.
While VJ Taya took in the majestic views that Boracay had to offer, VJ Teppei tried his hand at wakeboarding in a place where even most Filipinos may not know to be as one of the premiere spots for the sport in the region. He considers himself lucky to have found a wakeboarding complex here in Asia that’s comparable to those in countries like Germany and the United States.
Camarines Sur boasts to have world-class wakeboarding facilities. The popularity of wakeboarding started in 2005 and has caught on with many water sport enthusiasts, Vj Teppei being one of them.
Both Boracay and Camarines Sur are just examples of what’s in store for a tourist to the Philippines. It does not matter where they come from for there is bound to be an activity that will put a smile on their face.
There’s the famous Sagada Rice Terraces, the Hanging Coffins, Mount Pinatubo, whale shark encounters in Donsol, rides on Asia’s longest ZIP line in Davao, a boat ride under the subterranean river in Palawan, and this is just to name a few.
When asked to describe their respective trips to the Philippines, VJ Teppei shares, “I think the campaign’s name captures it all . . . awesome!”
“Awesome Philippines,” takes each VJ to a different locale where they get to experience the rich culture, savour the food, and get captivated by the local wonders that make up a unique holiday experience in the Philippines. The public get to see a summary of their journey’s as they capture these experience on film at www.awesomephilippines.com.

Arroyo, De Castro laud PAPI's mid-year confab BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan - President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo hailed the Publishers Association of the Philippines, Inc. (PAPI) for the holding of its 13th Mid-Year Conference and Executive Session on June 23 to 24 at Makati Sports Club.
Arroyo said the flagship theme, “Media and the 2010 Elections: Challenges and Opportunities,” underscores PAPI's unswerving commitment to help ensure honest, orderly and peaceful political exercise in the coming year.
"PAPI has ably and consistently demonstrated the sterling qualities of leadership in media as a vital partner of government in achieving our national agenda for development," the President said.
Vice President Noli de Castro said the PAPI conference speaks highly on professionalism, advocacy and leadership in preserving the hard-earned gains of the democracy.
"As the vanguard of press freedom, PAPI deserves all the encouragement and support we can muster and extend to it, especially as it embarks on its new initiative to enlighten our electorate on the imperatives of the coming national elections," he said.
De Castro said the gathering brings forth the idealism of the press in helping mold a public opinion that shapes national decisions and steers the destiny of the nation.
Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile said the Senate strongly recognize the significant role of the mass media in helping sustain national stability, peace and progress, "PAPI has no doubt placed itself at par with every working democratic institution in our country worthy of public adulation and emulation. Thus our avowed commitment to place premium on passing laws uphold at all times the sanctity of the freedom of the press," he said.
Speaker Prospero Nograles said, "without any iota of doubt, the press plays a pivotal role in encouraging the people to rally behind our national endeavors. In fact, the dynamism of the press finds relevance in the courage and determination of our legislators to enact laws that accord the Fourth Estate the highest degree of recognition, respect and support."
"With “Media and the 2010 Elections: Challenges and Opportunities” as its centerpiece conference theme, PAPI has shown its invaluable and untiring efforts to mobilize the press in helping enlighten our electorate on the critical importance of the national elections in the coming year," Nograles added.

Take it or Leave it
BY JUN PRADO

Practical Tips for Aspiring Journalists

After more than two decades of being in the profession, both as reporter and editor in various magazines and national newspapers in Manila and here in Aklan, I have come up with my own list of ten practical rules on how to become a successful journalist.
These rules by no means guarantee success – but they are valuable tips for an aspiring young journalist.
I am writing this piece especially for our Mass Communication students from the Northwestern Visayan Colleges who have patiently attended the Kapihan sa Aklan, from the start of its launching last year. Read on.
1. Be inquisitive. Inquire, ask questions, don’t be contented with what you hear or what is given to you. Your persistence can spell the difference between success and failure.
2. Be constant in your purpose. The best formula for success is consistency of purpose. If you really want to become a successful communicator, then aim for it and never waver. There may be obstacles along the way but if you have the will and dogged determination, nothing can stop you from realizing your dream.
3. Be fair and balanced. As an upstart, there will be temptations for you to see only one side of the coin because of some considerations. Never allow yourself to be used. Material considerations are ephemeral. You will lose them along with your dignity and self-respect. So, always be objective and balanced in your writing.
4. Be genuinely interested in people. As M. Lyle Spencer said, newswriting is about people and events. Love people. If you don’t, then be a mechanic or veterinarian.
5. Seek the truth. Be an honest chronicler of the times. Don’t use blinders and don’t allow your biases to affect your writing. When in doubt be always on the side of the underprivileged.
6. Be resourceful. Take the initiative. Don’t wait for handouts. Have a “nose for news”. Remember there is no such thing as a “dull beat” or a “dull story”.
7. Have guts. Don’t be afraid to stand up for your principles. Fight if you must to protect your right to express yourself.
8. Master your grammar. If you don’t, forget Masscomm. Forget journalism. A facility n the English grammar will make your job as a journalist and communicator much easier.
9. Know your medium. You will get your message clear if you know your medium. If you have a good voice, then you may venture into radio or television. But if you croak like a frog, stick to the print media.
10. Read. There is no substitute for reading. And don’t say you don’t have time. The greatest dividing line between failure and success can be expressed in just five words: “I did not have time”. There is always time for everything, including reading.

Bare essentials
BY AMYLINE QUIEN CHING

The moment Peter— a Canadian who travels to Boracay several times a year— clapped his eyes on another tourist in Alaska, he immediately knew for sure that the guy went to the island; not because of some sixth sense as most would assume but more of a ‘fashion’ sense. The stranger, you see, was also wearing a piece of art that people can only find in Bora.
Peter is but one of the many tourists who have shared anecdotes on the unique items that they have bought from Mariit, a small stall right across Mandarin Island Hotel in Boracay.

Not one to miss (or to forget) despite its relatively cramped space, the shop houses every art lover’s dream pieces: wooden Lulid sculptures depicting local mythological Gods; hand-carved wooden masks similar to traditional African Malian masks, which they call Gulgul; handmade accessories with semi-precious stones, snake bones and wild boar’s fangs; and arcane wall sculptures. The shop is managed by a group of local artists– Richie Condeza, Saude Yanoc, Ronnie Yanoc, Melsie Yanoc, and Joey Esturis– and is a haven of truly unique and eclectic finds. Only those who have been to the island can own such pieces.
From trash to treasure
Mariit is Hiligaynon (a native dialect) for ‘a place that is sacred’ and members of the group subscribe to a credo that will have eco-fiends nodding their heads in unison. They believe that things— both living and non-living— should not be harmed or destroyed. There is a sacredness inside all things that must be respected and preserved at all cost. Their battle cry: Destroy nature and you destroy yourself.
Thus each of the pieces in the shop comes from materials that are locally sourced-out, sometimes even ‘scavenged’ or recycled. Yanoc, for instance, uses nito for his bracelets and necklaces, which believe it or not, he just picks off the ground during his morning walks. The semi-precious stones on his bracelets and necklaces like agate and turquoise are shipped from Palawan, where they are found in abundance.
His co-member Joey Esturis, on the other hand, uses branches that have fallen off from trees for his wooden masterpieces. One of his renowned works now stands across the Mandarin Island Hotel— a totem pole that depicts Filipino values and culture.

According to Esturis, the pole was actually an uprooted tree that he was commissioned to carve and then implant again. The topmost layer shows a known Pinoy pastime, the sabong, as depicted by an intricate carving of a manok pangsabong. The middle part dramatizes what happens during harvest while the layer near the ground has carvings of Pinoys carrying a bahay kubo, representing the Filipino bayanihan spirit.
Truly rare finds
Using recycled or local materials does not, however, mean that their works are tacky. Looking at Yanoc’s quirky accessories and Esturis’ imposing wooden sculptures, it is hard to imagine that each piece is made from materials that people throw away. And the prices do not help the imagination either. A sculpture can burn a 2000-peso-hole in your pocket while the wooden masks are priced at P1500 each. One measly accessory on your hands can cost you about P1500 to P1800 while a Yanoc necklace can cost a lot more. Semi-precious stones notwithstanding, what a buyer actually pays for is the rarity of the design.
“Dito lang meron niyan. Ang liit lang ng stall namin but a lot of people stop by because we sell really one-of-a-kind pieces. Most of the clients that we have are repeat customers or those referred to us by our other buyers, mostly foreigners. They love our pieces because they are really pinoy, ethnic even.

Plus, you can be sure that each is unique. You might find something similar but never the same. And we are the first to come up with the design. Original siya. Kaya nga when they see our products abroad, they immediately recognize that they came from Boracay,” says Yanoc, rattling off stories that are similar to Peter’s experience from people living in Germany, USA and Canada.
The distinctiveness of their artworks comes from their unwillingness to commercialize their products. All items are handmade and only a few pieces are created at a given time. Yanoc, for one, even stops production altogether when he sees other artists doing the same designs or concept.
“Hindi naman talaga maiiwasan ang gayahan. We get inspired by other people’s work. Pero ako kasi, ayoko ng may kapareha. Pag may nakita na akong pareho ng ginagawa ko, I stop doing the design. That’s why I also avoid joining trade fairs even if it is one way to advertise my work and a chance to be famous.”
For the Mariit artists, doing so is far from the career and financial suicide that people often think it is. Their work can speak for itself, despite not being well-known commercially and their wares only displayed on a wooden table devoid of any trappings of success.

As Saude has mentioned, people who truly have the eye for Art need not go to famed studios and art galleries to find masterpieces. One can find treasures in the barest of conditions, even among trash and recyclables. God, after all, made his greatest masterpiece— Man — from just dirt.

Akeanon exhibit on poetry, paintings at Museo it Akean
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL / Panay News

KALIBO, Aklan - The Manunueat ag Artistang Makibanwahanon sa Aklan launched its first ever exhibit at the Museo it Akean and will run until July 12.
Entitled “Akeanon sa Hambae ag Imahe sa Ngaean it Kahilwayan (Aklanon in Words and Images in the Name of Freedom,” the exhibit was opened with Dr. Rey Lebaquin, Sr. as the guest of honor.
The featured artists are George Calaor, Sumra Dela Cruz-Rojo, Maricel Mobo-Nacabuan, Ymmanzel Quinesio, Andri Von Rowan and Marx Alojado.
Calaor is the founding member of the Akeanon Literary Circle in early ‘90s. He was a third prize winner in the National Commission for Culture and the Arts All-West Visayan Poetry Competition (Hiligaynon category) for his entry “Pinatubo nga Kasakit.”
His work “Uyayi ng Himagsik,” a book of poetry capturing the life and struggles of Filipinos towards genuine freedom, justice and democracy, is now being sold online.
Rojo, the museum curator, is a visual artist, poet and journalist. She has mounted two one-woman shows entitled, “Essesnce” and “Homage.” Sumra is a graduate of AB Economics and Bachelor of Fine Arts of Far Eastern University.
Nacabuan has rediscovered her inclinations for the visual and literary arts. She was a former news editor of the “Pagbutlak,” student publication of the College and Arts and Sciences of the University of the Philippines-Miagao.
Rowans' poetry reflects his life with the people from his countryside roots to his alienation as a worker in the city. His works have been published in “Irong-Irong,” an anthology of poetry by the University of San Agustin in Iloilo, where he finished his Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy.

Alojado started painting at the age of eight. He was a cartoonist, and news and feature writer during his elementary and high school years in Iloilo. In 2006, he received an award for Best Cartoonist of the Year and was recognized as one of the top ten artists in editorial cartoon in all division levels in Iloilo City.

Strengthen Aklan's disaster management, says Bangon Aklan
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL / Panay News

Former Aklan solon Allen Quimpo (second from right) supports the creation of a pro-active public safety and management office to handle the disaster-risk reduction programs of the province. Joining him in the Kapihan sa Aklan are Engr. Roger Esto of the Provincial Planning and Development Office, Philippine National Red Cross Aklan administrator Aracely Pelayo and Provincial Engineer Victory Fernandez / PHOTO BY BOY RYAN ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan - Former Aklan solon Allen Salas Quimpo is backing the creation of a pro-active public safety and management office tasked to implement a disaster-risk management and reduction programs of the province.
Quimpo, action officer of Bangon Aklan Task Force Rehabilitation, said the disaster-management office will develop pro-active and disaster prepared communities, empower and strengthen the capabilities of barangay residents on the impacts of natural disasters.
Last year, typhoon 'Frank' and mudflows killed 53 people and left thousands homeless. The typhoon also destroyed P2.02-billion in properties in the whole province of Aklan.
To adopt the best practices and strategies of Albay Public Safety and Emergency Management Office (APSEMO), Quimpo hopes to establish a structure similar to this Galing Pook awardee for Outstanding Local Governance Program to handle disaster-risk management to be undertaken by the Aklan provincial government.
"We must move as one and united. We discover that we could bring bigger assistance and efforts in times of disaster and we also discover a lot of heroes in our life, ordinary people who performed extra-ordinary deeds," he stressed in the forum organized by the Aklan Press Club, Publishers Association of the Philippines, Inc. and Aklan Media Forum.
Speaking over the regular Kapihan sa Aklan, Quimpo noted that Albay recorded "zero-casualties" even though the province is often battered by supertyphoons and Mayon Volcano eruptions. He cited the disaster preparedness of the barangays and the local residents and the effective coordination of the local government units during disaster recovery and response operations in disaster-stricken communities.
"We should institute a preventive and hazard office, a pro-active body that would oversee the disaster management-related activities. The community and the local government units must take responsibility in the issues of environment, development and disaster coupled with the readiness of the national government to accept our aspirations," he said.
Quimpo, executive director of the Aklan Rivers System Development Council, said he also supports the proposed Environmental Code of Aklan as a framework on how to address the environmental concerns including the community-based and multi-sectoral environment preservation.
Engr. Roger Esto of the Provincial Planning and Development Office said the P100-million funds for the initial dredging is ready and for bidding in the region. The fund was released by the Office of the President to rehabilitate the silted Aklan River
"The provincial government, this year, allocated P2-million funds for the Bangon Aklan secretariat. This is a continuing challenge for the Aklanons to mobilize stakeholders to totally rehabilitate the province," he added.

Bayani Fernando is adopted son of Kalibo
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL /Panay News

MMDA chairman Bayani Fernando joins the local government officials led by Mayor Raymar Rebaldo in recognizing him as an adopted son of Kalibo, Aklan / PHOTO BY BOY RYAN ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan – Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Bayani Fernando was adopted son of this capital town.
Kalibo mayor Raymar Rebaldo and the Sangguniang Bayan members presented Resolution No. 2009-061 to BF, as he is popularly known, in his recent visit here.
The resolution was unanimously approved by Vice Mayor Nilda Tambong, Sangguniang Bayan members Mark Quimpo. Lilian Tirol, Emmanuel Soviet Dela Cruz, Madeline Regalado, Gregorio Malapad, Jr., Peter Jene Lao, Ronce Reyes, Buencamino Villanueva, Liga ng mga Barangay president Wendell Tayco and Sangguniang Kabataan federation president Mary Agnes Jesm Gallardo.
The resolution described Fernando as “a dynamic leader and a man of vision who swiftly executes his mission to deliver effective public service.”
Fernando was also cited for his tremendous support to the town of Kalibo for deploying 135 MMDA personnel and 27 heavy equipments in a “Mercy Mission” to rehabilitate and clean the streets and drainages following the devastation of super typhoon ‘Frank’ in the province of Aklan on June 21, 2008.
“The arrival of the MMDA contingent who came all the way from Manila via Mindoro Island is the first and the most visible government agency that extended assistance to Kalibo. Their (MMDA) presence gave hope and rekindled the sagging spirits of the town folks,” the resolution said.
Rebaldo sought the assistance of Fernando in the evening of June 23, 2008 and without hesitation, the former city mayor of Marikina gave his assurance to dispatch his trusted MMDA personnel for a rescue and relief operations.
“At a glance, it pains every Aklanon to see what had happened as it appears that the capital town of Aklan will take years to bounce back and recover from the unfortunate calamity. Typhoon Frank hammered Kalibo, the worst in living memory to have ever hit the town,” the resolution said.
The MMDA chief, dressed in white polo shirt with BAYANI and a small Philippine flag embroidered above his left pocket, said his adoption as son of Kalibo, Aklan, would inspire him to deliver public service and good governance to his constituents.
The “Celebrity Duet” contest champion said he restored discipline in the streets and highways, sustained his campaign against illegal sidewalk vendors and enforced traffic rules for abusive and undisciplined bus drivers in Metro Manila.
At age 62, Fernando will definitely run for president in 2010 elections armed with strong political will and uncomprising track record.

Imago band rocks Kalibo

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL

KALIBO, Aklan – Pop rock band Imago invades music lovers in Aklan with a one-night concert in Kalibo Magsaysay Park today.
TM Tawag Piso Astigfest concert (Republika ng TM) is presented by the Manila Broadcasting Company (MBC) and the municipal government of Kalibo through Mayor Raymar Rebaldo.
Imago started in 1998 with their debut album "Probably Not But Most Definitely," released in 1999. The band garnered Katha and NU107 Rock Awards including Best Female Award for lead vocals Aia de Leon and Best Music Video for "Akap." Other band members are Myrene "Maps" Academia (bass), Tim Cacho (guitars) and Zach Lucero (drums).
In 2003, Imago released its second album "Take 2” and in 2006, they released "Blush (Universal Records)” with their hit songs "Taralets," "Sundo," and "Walang Misteryo."
Imago is the new endorser of the fastfood restaurant Tokyo Tokyo and performed the ABS-CBN’s “Umagang Kay Ganda” soundtrack theme TV.

MBC, the owner and operator of radio stations DZRH and Yes FM, partnered with DYYM Community Broadcast Information System (CBIS) 98.5 Hot FM to disseminate information in support of the local government's agenda.

Echoes From
BY JOHNNY DAYANG

PGMA’s strategic hands-on diplomacy

Once again, President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo’s tried and tested hands-on diplomacy has brought home another prized bonanza, coming on the heels of a just-concluded official visit to South Korea.
Warmly received by South Korean people and the officialdom, President Arroyo sealed a wide array of bilateral deals meant to boost Korean trade, investments and job placements for the overseas Filipino workers (OFWs).
South Korea is one of the Philippines’ most dynamic partners. Bilateral trade amounts to US$5.06 billion a year. Investments in the Philippines now hover over US$3 billion, making it one of our major sources of foreign capital. Annually, 600,000 Korean tourists account for the largest share of foreign visitor arrivals in the Philippines. Not only that. Korea is a key destination of our OFWs, hosting some 50,000 of our migrant workers since 2004.
One significant result of President Arroyo’s visit was the pledge by Korean conglomerate Hanjin Heavy Industries, one of the world’s largest shipbuilders, to hire 24,000 more Filipino workers for its Subic and Misamis Oriental plants. They are in addition to 16,000 workers that Hanjin currently employs. The corporate giant was impressed by the outstanding results of its multi-billion dollar investments here that it plans to expand and employ more Filipino workers.
Hanjin plans to manufacture US$29 million worth of shipbuilding components this year, raising it to US$57 million next year. The parts will be geared towards the export market. President Arroyo has expressed full support to Hanjin for making the Philippines the world’s fourth largest ship-builder.
A tribute to President Arroyo’s economic diplomacy, the two countries also agreed to embark on more joint ventures in agriculture, tourism and energy to broaden the scope of their bilateral ties. This accentuates President Arroyo’s policy stance that the Philippines offers the “best value” for foreign investments.
What makes the new arrangements immensely significant is that they coincided with the signing of free trade agreement between South Korea and the 10-member Asean. For sure, the new accord will create multiplier effects that will tremendously benefit Asean.
President Arroyo’s visit also came at a very propitious time. Tensions are mounting again in the Korean Peninsula following a series of nuclear tests by North Korea. Like other world leaders, President Arroyo expressed concern over the nuke issue and conveyed the Filipinos’ solidarity with Korean people for enduring peace in the region.

10th Asean Age-Group Chess Championships
Aklanon woodpusher settles for bronze

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL / Panay News / Manila Bulletin

KALIBO, Aklan - Veteran international chess player Mira Mirano from Banga, Aklan settled for bronze in Standard chess Open Girls 12 category in the 10th ASEAN Age-Group Chess Championships in Thua Thien - Hue, Vietnam from June 6 to 15, 2009.
Mirano, a first-year high school student of Saint Gabriel High School in Kalibo, Aklan, finished with 6 points behind eventual champion Medina Warda Aulia of Indonesia, who chalked up 8.5 points to clinch the title, while Nur Nabila Azman Hisham of Malaysia scored 6.5 points after nine rounds of the tournament.

Ma. Ysabelle Joyce Semillano and Merlebe Menbrere joined the group tied for 8th to 15th places with identical 4.5 points.

Mirano's trip to Hue, the ancient capital of Vietnam, has been made possible by the National Chess Federation of the Philippines (NCFP) headed by its president Prospero Pichay, Jr. and the provincial government of Aklan through Governor Carlito Marquez.

Mirano was a silver medalist in the 2009 Palarong Pambansa in Tacloban City and in the 8th Asean Age-Group Chess Championships in Pattaya, Thailand last June 13 to 22, 2007. She also represented the country in the 2007 World Youth Chess Championship in Antalya, Turkey in Under-10 Girls.

Meanwhile, five other Filipino chess players also ended their campaign in high note in this tough tournament participated in by 10 countries - Australia, Indonesia, Iran, India, Philippines, Singapore, Russia, Malaysia, Brunei and Vietnam.
Cherry Ann Mejia of Pangasinan ruled the Standard chess Open Girls 14 with eight points followed by Nguyen Ngoc Thuy Trang and Vuong Thi Quynh Huong of Vietnam with identical six points.
In Standard Open 8 category, Julius Gonzales chalked up 6.5 points for third place while Nguyen Hoang Viet Hai of Vietnam bagged the title with eight points and Vuong The Hung Vy of Vietnam grabbed the silver medal with seven points.
Lennon Hart Salgados of Cagayan de Oro tallied 6.5 points in the Standard chess Open 16 for the silver medal. Nguyen Van Hai of Vietnam scored 7.5 points to emerge as champion and Nguyen Duy Dien Nguyen with six points for third place.

National Master Alcon John Datu, who clinched the boys 16 under title recently, settled for sixth place with five points.
Sheider Nebato of General Santos City, who topped the National Age-Group 18 and under category in Kalibo, Aklan, finished with 6.5 points in the Standard chess Open 20 category to clinch second place. Vietnam's Le Quang Long posted 7.5 points for the gold and Chan Yi-Rien Daniel of Singapore with six points for the bronze medal.

Patrick Erle Florendo of Zamboanga, who earned four points, landed at 14th place.
While Hoang Thi Nhu Y and Pham Bich Ngoc posted a 1-2 finish for Vietnam with 6.5 points each followed by Jedara Docena of Bohol with six points in the Standard chess Open Girls 20.

Docena will represent the country in the World Junior Chess Championships this year in Mar de Plata, Argentina.

Boracay: Year-round tourism boom gets famed island off its feet
BY AMOS V. MANLANGIT

What I hear about Boracay and what I’ve seen in the last three years are almost surreal in the speed and expanse of success in a relatively short time.
The evidence shows in the sudden, seemingly unprepared boom. The municipality of Malay, which houses Boracay island, has just been upgraded this year to a first class municipality, its yearly income now over P50 million.
The economic boom easily shows as one touches down on nearby Caticlan airport-- the airstrip not designed for the mighty airbuses but maximized for precise hourly departures among local airliners. I remember my 56-seater plane grinding to a painful-sounding halt - mineral water bottles and all rolling towards the cockpit.
However, that doesn’t matter at all to the thousands who fly to Caticlan. Estimates put it at around 500 foreign nationals per day. Clearly, there is no slowing down – there’s even what hotels would call a December "super peak".
The influx is not just a result of regular flights, but the rise in transportation options, which now include a half-day Ro-Ro ride for as cheap as a thousand pesos for a one-way ticket, or a plane ride that can even go lower on certain days.
The first time I was Boracay in 2006, I remember witnessing a homogenous crowd of young people that included who’s who in high society, low-key socialites, celebrities, athletes and government VIPs.
In three years, I noticed a significant change in the crowd composition, which now includes a wider range in terms of age and social segment. It may not be good news for some society denizens who prefer to keep the island in its pristine past. Yet, it is a jackpot for numerous establishments that have sprouted relentlessly since the media frenzy went full gear. I remember describing a beachside club to a friend: It was just like any Timog Avenue dance bar—only with a beach view. I also remember loving dance music in Bora back in 2006. Now, predictable pop tunes drown out the more subdued house tracks. I smell Chori burgers and isawans sprouting like mushrooms along the beachfronts – reminds me of Puerto Galera. Clearly, a sign of the times.
Still, Boracay never ceases as a destination for the big spender. That is if one can afford staying in a beachfront hotel window that costs the same as a Manila five-star. On the northern white beach, one can find the sand at its finest, literally polvoron as described by the countless newspapers and magazines accounts. Here, things are noticeably decongested. A more mature crowd enjoys the morning sun more than the nightlife. Lucky are the last few hotels built in Station One. My stay at newly opened Two Seasons Boracay updated me with the times – eclectic cuisines, contemporary ambiances and easier connectivity complete a typical Manilan’s vacation.
Yet, regardless of the station one stays in, Boracay has a characteristic that transcends the social strata. The white beach faces the West. Aside from the glaring white sands that make daytime captures sure eye-catchers on Multiply or Facebook, picturesque sunsets offer to anybody a kind of intimacy and an unmatched natural backdrop for countless weddings, engagement proposals, debuts, get-togethers or simple solitary reflections. As long as the sun reveals itself, communing with a Boracay sunset is an open year-round opportunity.
To resolve rainy day dilemmas when windbreakers lord over, wise developers indulge on enhancing their amenities. Local sources claim as high as 200 percent growth in booking and business growth. Regular charters by Mandarin Airlines bring in by the thousands Taiwanese spenders. Russian tourists are seen in big numbers. A total of 21,741 Chinese tourists were booked in 2008, while Singaporeans and Australians increased by 83 and 41 percent respectively.
Development is underway in all areas – from the south to the north. A world-class golf course beckons – a project covering almost one-tenth of the island and dubbed the Golfing Jewel of the Pacific. Managed by Fil-Estate’s Fairways and Bluewaters, this is yet an initial component of the fantastic investment program by the developer.
Beachfront hotels are still being set up, the government counting at least 2,132 rooms under construction to be opened this year. But now that White beach lots are filled to the brim, all eyes are on the other beaches, including Puka, Lapuz-Lapuz, Punta Bunga and Ilig Iligan among others. Five minutes from the commercial center, that is Station Two is Boracay’s Eastern seaboard – the 1.6 kilometer long Bulabog Beach. My stay at 7stones Boracay Suites, managed by Fuego hotels, allowed me to experience Bora’s other face. The hotel boasts of fully furnished suites, some phases of which can be owned.
Malay is a municipality of a little over 6,000 Aklanons residing in three barangays – Manoc-Manoc, Balabag and Yapak. Despite the high-pitched development, many lives have remained basically the same, majority thriving in poverty.
They also face the daunting task of ensuring the island’s sustainability. Boracay’s deteriorating condition has alarmed environmentalists, advocates and nature lovers. A quick consequence was the provincial government’s move to bill every visitor an environmental fee of P50. Wherever the levy may take the provincial government in preserving this lush island, only time will reveal.
For now, one thing is clearly urgent – if Boracay is to be promoted a year-round paradise or some patches of heaven – utmost planning must sustain this 17.5 square kilometer piece of butterfly-shaped island.
If that happens, this wondrous island will be experiencing lean seasons no more.

MMDA Chairman Bayani Fernando visits Kalibo
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL / Panay News

KALIBO, Aklan - Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) chairman Bayani Fernando is scheduled to visit this town on June 13, almost a year after the typhoon 'Frank' wrought devastation in the province of Aklan.

The super typhoon killed 53 people and left thousands homeless on June 21, 2008.
Fernando, the well-loved adopted son of Kalibo, Aklan, mobilized the MMDA personnel for a "Mercy Mission" to rehabilitate and repair damaged infrastructures and clearing of drainages, streets and waterways of typhoon-hit towns in Panay Island.
Chairman Fernando helped in rebuilding the barangays of Kalibo in the aftermath of Typhoon ‘Frank’ by sending his 150 personnel and heavy equipment for a month-long repair and clearing operation," Mayor Raymar Rebaldo said.

On July 20, 2008, the town of Kalibo held a send-off activity for MMDA personnel, sans Fernando, dubbed "Pagpasaeamat" with a thanksgiving mass for helping out in disaster relief operations in Aklan.
Last year, the MMDA chairman, BF as he fondly called, has declared to run in 2010 presidential elections. He has earned a reputation as a hero and villain for his no-nonsense policies and strong political will to implement MMDA programs in Metro Manila.
Rebaldo said the former Marikina City mayor will share his experiences on local governance with local executives of Western Visayas in the Zero Basura and Fourmula 1 Health Caravan on June 13.
BF will also join the local media in a press conference at the Kalibo Sangguniang Bayan session hall at 2 p.m. before departing to Manila.

League of Mayors Caravan 2009 goes to Kalibo, Aklan
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL / Panay News

KALIBO, Aklan – Some 75 local executives in Western Visayas belonging to the League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP) will converge in the “Interconnectivity Caravan: Strengthening and Empowering LMP Provincial Chapters” on June 13 here.

Expected to share their expertise are LMP national president Dr. Ramon N. Guico, Jr. of Binalonan, Pangasinan and LMP Visayas Island Cluster president and current LMP Aklan president Raymar Rebaldo of the host town of Kalibo.

Carrying the theme, “Strengthening local actions under the Health Fourmula 1 – the Zero Basura Caravan,” the caravan aims to empower cluster municipalities by enhancing their capacities in finding solutions to local issues on economic development, environment, food security, health and peace and order.

Under Memorandum Circular No. 2009-72 dated June 8, 2009 issued by Interior and Local Government Secretary Ronnie Puno, all provincial governors and mayors are directed to advocate the caravan in 14 provincial clusters nationwide on critical health interventions and proper waste management.

The Fourmula 1 initiative of the Department of Health (DoH) is the implementation framework for health sector reforms in the country to ensure access to and availability of basic health packages and to assure the quality and affordability of health goods and services.

The three-month caravan across the country is also supported by the Mayor’s Development Center, Inc. (MDC), a brainchild project of LMP as the training and development arm for the mayors.

The caravan was conducted in Pines View Hotel in Baguio City (CAR, May 5), Fort Ilocandia in Laoag City (Region I, May 23), Queen Jennifer Hotel in Cauayan City (Region II. May 13), Clarkfield in Pampanga (Region III, May 26), Manila Pavilion (Region IV-A and Region IV-B, May 19 and 20), Casablanca Hotel in Legaspi City (Region V, May 29) and Waterfront Cebu (Region VII, June 11).

Topics for discussion for municipal mayors of Iloilo, Guimaras, Negros Occidental, Antique, Aklan and Capiz are DoH Fourmula One for Health and Province-Wide Investment Plan for Health (PIPH) and the DENR 2009 Thrusts and the Status of Solid Waste Management (SWM) in Region 6.
It will be presented by Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Assistant Secretary for Local Government Concerns and Lands Gerardo Calderon and DoH Undersecretary David Lozada.
The Zero Basura campaign is a DENR project designed to enlighten municipal mayors of the provisions and the final implementation of the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act or Republic Act 9003.
Under F1 for Health, health interventions and reforms for these provinces will achieve a more responsive health system and equitable health care financing.
Aklan Governor Carlito Marquez, Vice Governor Gabrielle Calizo-Quimpo and Aklan Rep. Florencio Miraflores are also invited to the one-day event at the 3rd Floor Conference Hall of the Kalibo Municipal Building.
DENR Secretary Joselito Atienza will talk about the Green Movement Agenda – Strategy for Local Action (GMA-SLA) including Laymanizing SWM Strategies while President Management Staff (PMS) Secretary Hermogenes Esperon, Jr. leads the participants in the signing of Manifesto of Commitment.

Marquez leads groundbreaking of Aklan Calangcang Sports Complex
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL / Panay News

KALIBO, Aklan - Aklan Governor Carlito Marquez led the groundbreaking rites of the multi-million new modern sports complex on Wednesday morning.

Provincial Engineer Victory Fernandez said the Calangcang Sports Complex groundbreaking held at the 6.5-hectare property of the Aklan State University (ASU) in Barangay Calangcang, Makato, Aklan was attended by Ricky Yanson of Dynamic Builders Construction Company, Sangguniang Panlalawigan members Selwyn Ibarreta, Plaridel Morania, Teody Masangya, Rodson Mayor, Daisy Briones and Jean Rodriquez and Makato mayor Ramon Gabriel Legaspi, Jr.

When fully operational and completed, the sports complex will host the annual provincial athletic meet and the West Visayas Regional Athletic Association (WVRAA) competition in February next year.
Dynamic Builders Construction, a Triple-A engineering company from Bacolod, includes Paglaum Sports Complex renovation and civil works of Silay City airport among its projects in Negros Occidental.

"The Phase I construction by the winning bidder amounting to P23-million is set for six months period or by December in time for the provincial athletic meet," Fernandez said.

The contractor, Fernandez said, is considering a 24/7 construction works to develop the sports complex which is targeted for completion by year-end. The provincial government has already earmarked an initial P80-million fund from Land Bank of the Philippines to start the project.

Phase II of the sports project will be awarded next month to the bidder for the construction of rubberized track and field oval, main grandstand and the Olympic size swimming pool for P55-million.

Fernandez said the sports facility is seen to contribute largely to the sports development of the province and enhance the investment opportunities of the host town. Building a sports complex has been the thrust of Governor Marquez since he took office in 2004 to promote sports development in the barangays.

The new sports complex, the first-of-its-kind in Aklan, intends to use 6.5-hectares of the 10-hectares ASU-owned land to house local and international sports events once completed.

In 1995, Aklan hosted the prestigious WVRAA during the incumbency of former Aklan Governor Corazon Legaspi-Cabagnot.

Gun-free zone
in Boracay pushed

BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL / Manila Bulletin

BORACAY – The Aklan Police Provincial Office (APPO) will launch its information campaign to stakeholders of Boracay as part of the ‘gun-free zone" program for this island paradise.
Senior Supt. Clarence Guinto said the Philippine National Police (PNP) identified the tourist destinations of Boracay Island and Guimaras as firearms zone in the region,
“The initial targets are those with permit-to-carry licenses in the island before we could fully implement the firearms ban. Our law enforcers – uniformed and non-uniformed personnel - could still carry their firearms to patrol the barangays until such time the structures are established,” he added.
Guinto said security guards of hotels and establishments are barred from carrying firearms in Boracay once the gun-free zone is implemented.
The preparatory structures include putting up of safety depository vaults in all entry points – Caticlan airport, Cagban and Caticlan jetty ports and a police security and protection unit to provide security detail to visitors.
Guinto said the tourists coming to Boracay are required to leave their firearms in the entry points before entering the island.
“There is a convergence of events in the idea of firearms zone in Boracay Island. The establishment of structures must be supported by other agencies like the local government units, stakeholders and the private sector in the island,” he said during the Talakayan Sa Isyung Pulis with the Aklan Police and Defense Press Corps (APDPC).
Guinto said the provincial government also plans to recommend to the Aklan Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) to declare the island of Boracay as a ‘gun-free zone.”
Other gun-free pilot project areas are Panglao in Bohol, Zamboanga City, Tagaytay City and Baguio City in an effort to minimize gun-related incidents in tourist destinations.

Aklan PNP eyes Camp Pastor Martelino as tourist destination
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL / Manila Bulletin / Panay News

http://www.mb.com.ph/node/203793

KALIBO, Aklan – Within two months, the modern three-storey Aklan Police Provincial Office (APPO) building will soon rise inside Camp Pastor C. Martelino in Barangay New Buswang.
Aklan police director Senior Supt. Clarence Guinto said the P8.9 million multi-storey building is already 65 percent completed.
Bacolod-based contractor Micro-Asia Builders Construction started the project on February 23, 2009.
Guinto said the provincial government through Aklan Governor Carlito Marquez and Aklan Rep. Florencio Miraflores also committed to help in the completion of the new building that will house the administrative, investigation and personnel divisions of the APPO.

Camp Pastor C. Martelino, the home of 600-strong police officers of APPO, is also envisioned to become a tourist destination for foreigners and visitors once the building is finished.
The camp was named after the late Colonel Martelino, who was the first Filipino superintendent of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) and the Chief of Staff of the 31st Infantry Division of the Philippine Army during the World War II. He was killed in 1945 in Fort Santiago.
In 2006, the National Historical Institute (NHI) unveiled a historical marker inside the APPO to honor his heroics and martyrdom.
Guinto urged those tourists bound for the famous Boracay Island to visit the Aklan police headquarters and the nearby multi-awarded Kalibo Eco-Bakhawan in Barangay New Buswang to generate income opportunities and to sustain the tourism efforts of this town.
“The new APPO edifice is a symbol of hardwork and dedicated service of our policemen in Aklan. Camp Pastor Martelino has a lot of potential as a tourist attraction, owing to its new facility and features designed to cater the needs of its personnel and the public,” Guinto said.

To be more attractive to Koreans and Japanese visitors, Guinto hopes to refurbish the APPO shooting range into a 7-lane automated outdoor facility.
Last year, APPO, the model site of the Integrated Transformation Program (ITP), bagged the “Best Provincial Police Office” in Western Visayas.

The US Department of State and Department of Justice, thru the International Criminal Investigative Training Assistance Program (ICITAP) also granted investigative equipments and trainings on law enforcement to make APPO a credible, dynamic and efficient police organization.

Akelco consumers urge to stand united amid power shortage
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL / Manila Bulletin

http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/206383/akelco-consumers-urged-unite-amid-power-shortage

LEZO, Aklan – Aklan Rep. Florencio Miraflores urged the member-consumers of Aklan Electric Cooperative (Akelco) to stand united in finding solutions to augment the power supply needs of Aklan and the neighboring towns of Antique.
The solon said the general membership assembly theme,”Keeping the Lights On” was timely for Akelco as it faces possible power shortage in the coming months.
“Not only that Akelco is tapping alternative independent power producers, but also, electric cooperatives in the Visayas grid, to avert the looming power crisis and to ensure a steady supply of power for their consumers,” he said.
Akelco general manager Chito Peralta said National Power Corporation (Napocor) president Froilan Tampinco, in his letter dated May 5, 2009, urged Akelco to start negotiating with an independent power producer to supply the energy requirements starting June 26, 2009.
Napocor will renew the Transition Supply Contract (TSC) only up to June 25, 2009, despite, it was renewed before its expiration date on December 2008.
Peralta said Panay Island, with six electric cooperatives, has a combined power deficit of 63.50 megawatts, Negros with 73 MW and Cebu with 203 MW deficit.
Akelco, a Class A (Mega Large) electric cooperative, has 101,948 member-consumers and 91,932 household connections in 363 energized barangays in Aklan and Antique in 2008.
It has a 12.06 percent power systems loss and a 99.14 percent collection efficiency last year.
To address the power supply shortage in Aklan, Board president Jose Carl Quimpo said Akelco inked into a Power Supply Agreement with Asea One Power Corporation (AOPC) to supply the energy requirements of Akelco with rated capacity of 5 MW starting 2012 at P5.90 per kilowatt/hour.
“The bio-mass plant of Asea One is producing cheaper power by converting rice stalks, rice husks and other agricultural wastes to energy. It will also provide additional income to farmers by selling rice stalks and rice husks to the power producer,” he stressed during the 26th Annual General Membership Assembly (AGMA) here.
The general assembly was attended by 260 member-consumers, board of directors Atty. Immanuel Sodusta, Engr. Celso Tajanlangit, Haydeen Bandiola, Dr. Norma Salido, Paterno Ibarreta, Julieta Aron, Ermito Tabique, Roy Gomez, Samuel Remegia, Jr. and NEA representative to the Board Augusto Tolentino.
Last year, Akelco entered into a settlement agreement with Avon River Holdings to pay the P92,345,124.66 consumption from February 25, 2007 to September 2007. As of March 2009, the outstanding balance is P38,643,409.20.
Quimpo also cited the 140 resolutions approved by the Board of Directors in 2008, including the schedule of elections for District I (Malay/Buruanga), District II (Pandan / Libertad, Antique) and District VIII (Lezo/Malinao) on December 2008.
Last year, Akelco availed of P48.258-million Calamity Loan from the National Electrification Administration (NEA) for the repair and rehabilitation following the devastation of typhoon Frank. Total damages on June 21, 2008 amounted to P65.766-million.
Akelco also apprehended 145 consumers for violating Republic Act No. 7832 or the Anti-Electric Pilferage Law in 2008.

Environmental code public hearing set
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL / Manila Bulletin

http://www.mb.com.ph/node/203580

KALIBO, Aklan - The Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) of Aklan is set to hold a public hearing for the proposed comprehensive environmental code with the stakeholders on June 9.
The proposed code seeks to provide a framework for the management, protection and preservation of the province's natural resources and environment for sustainable development.
All town mayors, vice mayors, non-government organizations, stakeholders and members of Municipal Agriculture and Fishery Council, Municipal Planning and Development coordinators are invited to the public hearing for the enactment of the proposed environment code.
Aklan Vice Governor Gabrielle Calizo-Quimpo will preside the public hearing with Sangguniang Panlalawigan members Plaridel Morania, chairman of the Committee on Agriculture, Food, Cooperative and Environmental Protection and Selwyn Ibarreta, chairman of the Committee on Laws, Rules and Ordinance in attendance.
Engr. Roger Esto of the Provincial Planning and Development Office, Engr. John Kenneth Almalbis of the Aklan Environment and Natural Resources Office (AKENRO) and Derlito Rico of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)-Aklan, both of the Provincial Technical Working Group (PTWG) will also attend the hearing.
Last year, the Aklan SP passed the Aklan Investments Incentives Code through General Ordinance No. 2008-007 drafted by the Provincial Planning and Development Office and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Provincial Office.
On April 23, 2009, the Tourism Code of Aklan was enacted during its 15th regular session through General Ordinance No. 2009-003. Uswag Development Foundation, Inc. under its Executive Director Didi Quimpo and the Provincial Tourism Office under Roselle Ruiz spearheaded the tourism code of Aklan drafting.

It’s Always Sunny in this Boracay Resort

The sun never sets on Sur Beach Resort, a 21-room, family-owned boutique hotel in Station 1 in Boracay. And that’s because its owners, the Tirols, have decided early on to run the resort using renewable sources of energy.
How did they overcome the usual challenges that faze other similarly well-meaning people? Here’s Vic Tirol’s account of how their decision proved to be the right one:
“Environmentalist-friends told us that powering the resort entirely with solar panels was out of the question: the current state of solar technology could not power all of the resort’s lights, airconditioners, refrigerators, freezers, computers and television sets.
“But I remembered observing that, during my travels to some island-states in the Pacific like Fiji, Palau and Papua New Guinea, practically all hotels and homes were equipped with solar-powered water heaters that were perched on rooftops.
“When I asked friends about this practice, they explained that hotels and homes in these places used solar power to heat water because (1) these islands have abundant sunlight and, (2) solar heaters can bring down electricity costs significantly. I thought this was the way to go for Sur because Boracay also has a lot of sun, and we wanted to save on electricity costs.
“Our friends warned us that the initial cost of putting up solar heaters would be high, but added the good news that not only would we save on electricity costs, we could also recover our investment in the solar heaters in just a few years.
“We bought four pairs of solar panels, each pair costing a little less than P150,000. Each pair generates 2,400 to 3,000 watts of power from the sun – enough to heat water for six to eight rooms. At night and on days when there is not enough sun (which is very rare in Boracay), the heaters’ heating elements automatically draw power from Sur’s electricity, ensuring hot water for guests all the time. With these solar heaters, Sur is able to shave off an average of 30 percent from its monthly electric bill, enabling us to start recovering our investment on them.
“As for disadvantages, I can think of only one, and that is the need to maintain the heating elements more often because of the wildly erratic electrical service in the island.
“Would I recommend the use of solar power? Definitely, both for homes and businesses, not only for the savings they will realize but also for the good it will do for the environment.”

Boracay arrivals hit 337,664, P6.2-B receipts from January to May
BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL / Manila Bulletin / Panay News

BORACAY – The island of Boracay has posted P6.2-billion receipts earned from 337,664 tourist arrivals for the first five months this year, up from 300,028 arrivals of the same period last year.
Of the total arrivals, foreigners accounted for 85,687 or 25.37 percent, 238,125 are local tourists and 14,032 are overseas Filipinos.
The island, one of Asia’s top 10 holiday destinations in 2008, is targeting to surpass the half-million mark arrivals for the fourth time with the surge of Taiwanese visitors after Mandarin Airlines from Taipei, Taiwan and TransAsia Airways launched direct flights to Kalibo International Airport.
Total visitor arrivals in the island are also expected to balloon to 700,000 as the Department of Tourism (DOT) is projecting a 10 percent increase for this year.
In 2007, the island attracted 596,748 or more than 8 percent of the 556,084 arrivals in 2006. Boracay Island also hosted 634,263 last year owing to aggressive campaign of tourism authorities for budget travelers from Europe, Korea, China and Russia.
At present, there are more than 5,000 rooms available in the island with the entry of 217-room Shangri-La’s Boracay Resort and Spa.
Boracay, the country’s premier destination, was ranked seventh by Smart Travel Asia magazine in its 2008 "Best in Travel" poll for the second straight year by over one million online readers worldwide.
The island was also rated the best leisure destination in Asia based on the online survey of international magazine Travel Weekly given its top-notch service to guests, world-famous white beach and natural attractions.

REASON AND CONCERN

BY RONQUILLO C. TOLENTINO

Ro Kahilway

Sa granitong pader it ‘Harvard University’ makit-an rondayang panueat ni Archibald Macleish": How shall freedom be defended? By arms if it is attacked by arms; by truth when it is attacked by lies; by democratic faith when it is attacked by authoritarian dogma. Always, and in the final act, by determination and faith."
Sa Hunyo l2, 2009, nataw-an it banwang Pilipinas it kahigayunan nga magcelebrar kita it aton nga kahilwayan o independencia.
Kon maghambae kita it kahilwayan, dayon nakong nadumdoman ro ratong manunueat nga naghambae nga ro kawsa it kahilwayan hay kawsa man it Maka-ako. Ro personal nga libertad hay mata-as nga kinihangeanon sa dignidad ag sa kalipay it tawo.
May hambae ngani si Ralph Waldo Emerson it mawraya sa English: "For what avail the plough or sail, or land or life, if freedom fail?" O sa Inakeanon, anano pa ro kinihangean it arado o cayag, eogta o kabuhi kon magpalya ro kahilwayan?
Ro kahilway una sa paino-ino ag tagipusu-on it tawo o nasion nga nagahangup it kahilway.
Kon amat ngani nabutang sa mga kanta ro parte sa libertad ag kahilway. Bukon eamang sa aton nga banwang Pilipinas mana sa mga kanta nga "Bayang Magiliw" o "Pilipinas kong Mahal". Sa mga iba nga nasiones una ro pagtaeopangud sa kahilway mana sa ay Julia Ward Howe nga "Battle Hymn of the Republic, nga mawraya ro nakasa-ad sa sangka ‘stanza’: "In the beauty of the lilies, Christ was born across the sea; With a glory in His bossom that transfigures you and me As He died to make men holy, let us die to make men free; While God is marching on."
O sa ratong kinanta it mga Blacks sa America sa paniyempo ni Martin Luther King, nga mawraya: "Oh justice, Oh justice; Oh, justice over me; But before I’ll be a slave, I’ll be buried in my grave; I’ll be home to my land and be free."
Si Abram Lincoln, naghambae anay it mawraya: "Ro mga tinuga nga naga pamalibad it kahilway hay bukon man it para kanda ro anda nga nakutoe nga kahilway ag sa idaeom it gahum it Maka-ako ro mga nagapamalibad ag naga kutoe it kahilway hay indi man magbuhay sa andang pagkutoe it kahilway.
Bugtawon naton sa pa-ino-ino, padabdabon ro aton nga tagipusu-on sa paghigugma sa banwang Pilipinas bukon eamang sa aton nga pagcelebrar it atong kahilwayan kundi sa aton nga pag gawi adlaw-adlaw ay guintaw-an kita it Maka-ako it sangka nasion nga aton nga higugma-on.
Hatanda-an ko ro guinpanueat it sangka grupo it ilustrados sa Paris ko Octobre 1889 nga nag-pirma sa bansag nga "Ro Filipino" nga nagpanueat sa pagpadumdom nga ma-pangeopig nga pagdumaea-han it mga Espanolas sa mawraya nga hambae: "Kon ro tawo hay ginabusaean; kon ro ana nga dignidad, honor ag libertad hay naeapak; kon owa eon it legal nga pa-agi kontra sa mapintas nga pageopig it manogeopig; kon ro mga reklamos, mga petisyones ag mga panaghoy hay owa eon na-intindiha; kon owa eon nasugti bisan ro pagtangis; kon ro ultimo nga pagea-om hay guina eogos pa sa tagipusu-on…. sa royon, sa royon eamang nga kon owa eon it remedyo nga pagabuytan it nagakurog nga alima halin sa altar ro madugo nga daga it revolusyon."
Pa-agi sa revolusyon it Pilipinas ko 1896 hasta 1897, naputoe guid man ro pagdominar it mga Espanoles. Dagaya man ro mga naging martires. Una ro trece martires it Cavite, ro l3 martires it Bicol, ro 19 martires it Aklan. Una ro indi mahuyap nga pagtumba ag pagkamatay it aton nga mga kaeaeakihan ag mga babaye sa kagab-ihon it aton nga paghimakas ag pagsukoe sa mga Castila. Sa Mindanao eamang, indi mahuyap ro guin pamatay it mga Castila ko tiyempo it revolusyon. Una man ro pagbaril kay Jose Rizal sa Bagumbayan ko Disyembre 30, 1896.
Sa maragtas it Pilipinas, una ro pagsaysay nga ko Hunyo l2, 1898, nga banda alas cuatro ag alas sinco it hapon, si General Emilio Aguinaldo, sa presensia it dagaya nga mga tawo, nagproclamar it kahilwayan it Pilipinas idto sa Cavite el Viejo nga makaron hay Kawit, Cavite.
Ro istorya it banwang Pilipinas hay istorya it pagsacrifisyo ag paghaead it kabuhi it aton nga mga ninuno makita eamang naton ro kahilway. Halin kay Lapu-lapu sa Mactan pa-adto kay Rizal, Bonifacio, ag halin man kay Rizal ag kay Bonifacio pa-adto pa guid sa madugo nga eanas it Bataan ag kabukiran it Coregidor ag sa mga ibang lugar pa it Pilipinas ko nagtaliwan nga ikaywang guerra mundial, pa-adto sa EDSA hataw-an naton ro higugma it Pilipino sa kahilway ag sa paghaead it kabuhi kon kinihangeanon sa altar it kahilway.
Sa aton nga kahilwayan, kinihangeanon naton ro pagpaino-ino bukon eamang ko aton nga mga deretso kundi man ko aton nga responsibilidad, o obligaciones. Kon ro pomoeoyo hay pirme eang sa paino-ino ro anang mga deretso ag owa man nabalanse it anang katungdanan hay indi man mag-uswag it madali ro nasion.
Kinihangean makaron sa Pilipinas bukon eamang it sa mga paghugod kundi man ro disiplina.
Kon maghambae kita it kahilway bukon it kumpleto ro kahilway kon owa it higugma ro pomoeoyo sa banwang tinubu-an. Bukon man it husto ro kahilway kon owa it kalinung.
Ro kahilway hay makapabugtaw katon it mayad. Pa-agi sa kahilway, matapna naton ro pag-abuso sa gobiyerno. Pa-agi sa kahilway, mapaninguha naton ro hustisya.
Makaron nga adlaw it atong kahilwayan ipangadie naton sa Makaako nga ro mga nag sacrifisyo, naghaead it andang kabuhi, rong mga martires, ro mga naduea sa mapintas nga mga regimen agud kita hay nakakita it kahilway pa-agi sa andang guinbuhat hay magakalipay man sa gahum ag kandungan it aton nga Guinu-o.
Mabuhi ro Pilipinas, kahapon, makaron, hin-aga, ag sa mga masunod nga dinag-on it atong kahilwayan!