Iloilo City and Province - Compiled Threads [Archive] - Page 4

wecky

June 3rd, 2005, 11:49 AM

The Iloilo Town and River in the 19th Century

The opening of the Port of Iloilo along Iloilo River in 1855 not only resulted in the expansion of trading activities and increase in population in the town of Iloilo but also led to the development of the sugar industry. The Iloilo River provided for a safe entry point and storage for sugar which were subsequently loaded on ocean-going vessels bound for other countries.

Following the annual harvest cycle of the sugarcane, foreign traders filled their bodegas at the Iloilo waterfront with bags of sugar from hundreds of sugar mills in Negros and Panay delivered by the fleets of lorchas from September to April. Then, from January to August, foreign freighters docked at the pier to unload finished products-farm equipment for the haciendas, luxury goods for the sugar planters and businessmen of Iloilo and Bacolod, cheap cotton cloth for the sacadas, and various household items. Upon departure, they took on cargoes of sugar bound for America, China and Europe.

Because of the opening of the Port of Iloilo and the development of the sugar industry, there was also the influx of businessmen and traders, as well as migrant workers into the town of Iloilo.

In 1869, the foreign element in the population of the town of Iloilo was still sparsely represented, consisting of one American and two British subjects only (Lone to Farren, 1860). This was not to remain so. Aside from Great Britain, other countries soon recognized the importance of Iloilo as a trading center. For example, in 1862, US Consul Jonathan Rusell wrote to Washington from Manila recommending that an American Vice- Consulate be opened in Iloilo in as much as several American vessels had already been calling at the port. Consequently, in 1864, the US Vice Consulate was opened with Wright Loring, the only American resident in Iloilo, as the first Vice Consul (120 th Port of Iloilo anniversary, 1975). The example of Great Britain and the United States was followed later on by other countries.

With the growing business opportunities in the town of Iloilo, the traders in the neighboring town of Molo later on transferred their operations to the former. This was done because the coasting vessels that used to sail to Molo could no longer do so due to the fact that the drawbridge through which they had to pass had gotten out of repair (Loney to Farren, 1857). Also, they found it more profitable to do their business in the town of Iloilo.

Moreover, the town maintained a substantial population of resident and migratory stevedores to move the sugar from the lorchas into the bodegas and from the bodegas into the foreign vessels. During September and October as the sugar mills began grinding in Negros and elsewhere in Panay, thousands of seasonal stevedores migrated into the town of Iloilo to handle cargo. This influx last up to May or June when the bulk of the foreign vessels had finished loading. These stevedores were paid daily in cash and were active consumers. Their wages injected a substantial flow of cash into the town's economy and supported its commercial and recreational establishments.

The Iloilo River also served as an artery of Jaro's trade through the Dungon Creek which was a contributory factor in the town's development. Representing this aspect of the town's development was the Jaro 'Huebesan' or Thursday market. During the 19 th century, it was the most popular market and had a festive atmosphere. People from the town of Iloilo and from all over the province flocked to the place to sell their products and to buy what the market offered. The goods which were bought at the weekly market were mainly ferried through the Iloilo River and subsequently offered for sale in the towns of Iloilo, Molo, Oton, and other places (Loney to Farren, 1857).

Finally, the Iloilo River played a very crucial rule in the emergence of Iloilo as a commercial center and an entertainment capital. Because of the remarkable increase in commercial activity and its expansion in areas, the town of Iloilo developed into one of the most modern cities in the Philippines which called for basic facilities and fast means of transportation. The main artery in this development was the river, providing revenues to the city because of the heavy traffic of water vessels and the loading and unloading of cargoes.

(from The News Today Online)

wecky

June 3rd, 2005, 11:53 AM

Our tourism calendar has three big events ,namely, The Best of the Region in Intramuros ( Kabugana-an sang Western Visayas sa Intramuros) on June 15-28, 2005. This is a showcase of the bounties of Western Visayas in terms of arts, history and culture. It is also a showcase of the cooperation of the Department of Tourism on the one hand and the private sector and local government units of Western Visayas on the other; the Philippine-Spain Friendship Week Celebration in Iloilo City on June 27-July 3, 2005. The historical and cultural legacies of Spain as manifested in architecture, cuisine, dances and songs of Iloilo permeate every aspect of Ilonggo lifestyle. The celebration will be an appropriate occasion to trace Iloilo's Spanish legacy and strengthen Ilonggo-Spanish connection that could be both an inspiring and educational experience for the visitors and the local residents; and the 16 th Philippine Travel Mart at SM Mega Mall, Mandaluyong City on September 9-11, 2005, an annual event that showcases the tourist attractions, facilities and business opportunities of the Philippines in one venue. The local government units, private sector groups of Western Visayas are consistent participants in this annual event with the Department of Tourism as major sponsor.

(from The News Today Online)

whyte

June 3rd, 2005, 05:35 PM

wecky

June 3rd, 2005, 06:30 PM

I remember once as well ... we also crossed the street from Bank of Philippine Islands-Main Branch to Far East Bank-Main (now another BPI) ... we knew that there's a jaywalking policy strictly implemented but we are really in a hurry to go back to CPU as we have a late class during that time. Me and my friends tried to look to make sure that traffic enforcer wasn't around and decided to cross the road. Unluckily, right in the middle of the road, we heard a whistle coming from nowhere .. the heck, a traffic enforcer was just hiding in one of the old posts in PO's Marketing ... we were caught and was reprimanded (as we were students). We're just too lucky that they did not fine us or let us stand on the side of the road where the traffic violators were placed surrounded by this bloody cheap rope (lubid) ... hehehe. We actually don't care about it ... it's the violation record that we are more concerned of .. moreso, we might be expelled in Nursing if we're caught to have this kind of record ... gosh, we were white as paper after that incident.

wecky

June 3rd, 2005, 06:32 PM

Palawan, Puerto Princesa
transfer to Western Visayas

THE province of Palawan and Puerto Princesa City are now under the administrative jurisdiction of Western Visayas (Region VI) following their transfer from Region IV, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) announced yesterday.

Interior and Local Government Secretary Angelo Reyes said President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo issued recently Executive Order 429 reorganizing Region VI to include the province of Palawan and Puerto Princesa City.

Reyes said EO 429 also directed the DILG to supervise the transfer of the said province and city from Region IV to Region VI.

Reyes ordered Undersecretary for Local Government Eduardo Soliman Jr. to immediately coordinate with the local chief executives and other officials of the concerned province, city and regions to effect the smooth transfer of the affected local government units.

Soliman said DILG Region IV Director Rodolfo Feraren and Region VI Director Evelyn Trompeta are now preparing the work plan for the administrative transfer of said province and city.

Reyes explained that the President issued EO 429 to guarantee the effective delivery of field and public services of government agencies and accelerate social and economic development in the regional and local levels.

As reorganized, Region VI or Western Visayas will now comprise the provinces of Iloilo, Antique, Aklan, Capiz, Negros Occidental, Guimaras and Palawan, and the cities in these provinces.

(from Panay News Online)

wecky

June 3rd, 2005, 06:36 PM

WELCOME ... PALAWAN and PUERTO PRINCESA CITY to WESTERN VISAYAS !

Hala Bira ! ! !

kiretoce

June 3rd, 2005, 06:39 PM

I thought Romblon province will change regions too....guess I thought wrong. :dunno:

Welcome to Region VI Palawan! :okay:

wecky

June 3rd, 2005, 06:51 PM

*double entry *

wecky

June 3rd, 2005, 06:53 PM

I thought Romblon province will change regions too....guess I thought wrong. :dunno:

Welcome to Region VI Palawan! :okay:

I'm expecting that too, Kiretoce ... but probably the government decided to let Romblon stayed in Region 4 or maybe the transfer will be a little bit later. We'll be gladly welcoming Romblon in Western Visayas as well, just in case. Our little family is getting bigger now. Hope the regular flights from Iloilo to Palawan (Puerto Princesa) and vice versa will be improved as well .. or at least increase their flights from once daily to three times a day. Moreso, a plan for Supercat operation from Iloilo City to Puerto Princesa City will be realised as well. With Palawan on board, TOGETHER WE WILL MAKE A STRONGER WESTERN VISAYAS REGION (tourism and economy) !

wecky

June 3rd, 2005, 07:00 PM

Friday, June 03, 2005
Western Visayas investment plans approved: Neda 6

* AIPs for the budget of the different core line agencies contain the identified programs and projects that would support the implementation or realization of the Western Visayas Regional Development Plan for 2004--2010

THE Annual Investment Plans (AIPs) for Western Visayas was approved during the recent joint meeting of the Regional Development Council 6 and the Regional Peace and Order Council held in Guimaras, the National Economic Development Authority 6 said.

AIPs for the budget of the different core line agencies contain the identified programs and projects that would support the implementation or realization of the Western Visayas Regional Development Plan for 2004-2010.

The joint meeting presided by RDC 6 chairperson, Antique Governor Salvacion Perez, was attended by other governors of the region, local chief executives of highly urbanized and component cities and capital towns, non-government organizations and heads of selected regional line agencies.

Also, discussed during the joint meeting were the status of infrastructure projects such as the New Iloilo Airport Development Project in Cabatuan and Santa Barbara, Iloilo; the Jalandoni Bridge in Iloilo City; Panay Diesel Power Plant in Dingle, Iloilo; and the Secondary Education Development and Improvement Project in Guimaras.

Members were also briefed on the status of the peace and order situation and the Kalahi projects in the region.

(from Sunstar Iloilo News Online)

wecky

June 3rd, 2005, 07:14 PM

Palawan now part of Western Visayas
By ELENA L. ABEN

Palawan and its capital, Puerto Princesa City, are now under the administrative jurisdiction of Region VI (Western Visayas) after their transfer from Region IV, Southern Tagalog.

The change was announced yesterday by Interior and Local Government Secretary Angelo Reyes following following an Executive Order (EO) signed recently by President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.

EO 429, according to Reyes , also directs the DILG to supervise the transfer of the province from the administrative jurisdiction of Region IV to VI.

Reyes directed Undersecretary for Local Government Eduardo Soliman Jr. to immediately coordinate with the local chief executives and other officials of the concerned province, city, and regions to implement the smooth transfer of the affected local government units.

Soliman and DILG Region IV Director Rodolfo Feraren and Region VI Director Evelyn Trompeta are preparing the work plan for the administrative transfer of the province and city.

Reyes explained that the President issued EO 429 to guarantee the effective delivery of field and public services of government agencies and step up social and economic development on the regional and local levels.

As expanded, Region VI or Western Visayas will now consist of the provinces of Iloilo, Antique, Aklan, Capiz, Negros Occidental, Guimaras, and Palawan, and the cities of Iloilo, Passi, Roxas, Bacolod, Silay, Talisay, and Puerto Princesa.

(from Manila Bulletin Online)

Reiterately, WELCOME PALWAN and PUERTO PRINCESA CITY. A great addition to WESTERN VISAYAS REGION, indeed.

chymera00

June 4th, 2005, 05:27 AM

:wave:

* hopefully we could schedule an SSC Iloilo EB sometime in AUGUST. July 30 is my tentative sked og foing home for a 2 week vacation
* I remember ..... i was caught jaywalking in the street between amigo plaza and iloilo supermart. i "fought" with the traffic enforcer "syempre TAGALOG" SPOKENING ako to "back" up my innocence :D pero they did not succumb to my reasoning. P50 lang naman yung BAYARAN ko BUT i had to PROVE to myself that i can get out of this situation NOT. paying

I DID

but they had to take me to the city police station :bash: and there i talked with the police officer in charge with the "reklamos" and gladly our "case" was not that "heavy" so "pinalaya" kami

Grabeh, the idea of going inside a police station will instantly make me reach for my pockets already ... then again, im 17 so I don't have to :) (Minors are exempt from paying penalties) and I make it a point never to jaywalk if may overpass lng naman. I know I'm physically capable of climbing those steps, so I dont find any reason to ...

I remember once as well ... we also crossed the street from Bank of Philippine Islands-Main Branch to Far East Bank-Main (now another BPI) ... we knew that there's a jaywalking policy strictly implemented but we are really in a hurry to go back to CPU as we have a late class during that time. Me and my friends tried to look to make sure that traffic enforcer wasn't around and decided to cross the road. Unluckily, right in the middle of the road, we heard a whistle coming from nowhere .. the heck, a traffic enforcer was just hiding in one of the old posts in PO's Marketing ... we were caught and was reprimanded (as we were students). We're just too lucky that they did not fine us or let us stand on the side of the road where the traffic violators were placed surrounded by this bloody cheap rope (lubid) ... hehehe. We actually don't care about it ... it's the violation record that we are more concerned of .. moreso, we might be expelled in Nursing if we're caught to have this kind of record ... gosh, we were white as paper after that incident.

Lucky you, being caged up in an rope is embarrassing. Ilonggos are so not cut out for traffic rules. Too long have we eperienced a lack of enforcement that its difficult to adjust. When my class went to cross a street in Baguio, we forgot traffic lights existed ... so we crossed the street even though the crossing light was red, luckily we didn't get caught. It would have been embarrasing if we did ...

chymera00

June 4th, 2005, 05:40 AM

wecky

June 4th, 2005, 07:47 PM

Lucky you, being caged up in an rope is embarrassing. Ilonggos are so not cut out for traffic rules. Too long have we eperienced a lack of enforcement that its difficult to adjust. When my class went to cross a street in Baguio, we forgot traffic lights existed ... so we crossed the street even though the crossing light was red, luckily we didn't get caught. It would have been embarrasing if we did ...

'twas an experience, Chymera ... should it happen again, I don't know how to react anymore. It's bit funny to look back with this kind of innocence but indeed a scary one. I couldn't picture out myself caged up in a sidewalk at all. That experience remains a lesson for all of us "barkada" ... hehehe. Until now, when we happened to have a get together this experience we had always take part of our conversation. We simply had a laugh of it.

wecky

June 4th, 2005, 08:14 PM

Wow, Palawan and Aklan in one region, 2 tourism powerhouses! ... I wonder why it is imperative to include Palawan to Region 6, i mean Palawan and Panay isn't really close culturally (as close as palawan is to Southern Tagalog). Isn't Region 6 already big enough, Palawan will make Region-6 the biggest Region in the Philippines ... They had 2 split Region 4 up (to Region IVa - CALABARZON and Region IVb - MIMAROPA) because it was too big to govern, what will become of MIMAROPA now without Palawan? I

I hope now travelling to Palawan will become cheaper I want to go there so0o bad.

Absolutely a TOURISM POWERHOUSE! Strategically, Palawan could not be considered part or extention of Luzon anymore. Its stretch is more likely be that of the Visayas area. And the nearest Visayan region to Palawan is Western Visayas. Besides, if you'll think the concern and drive of WV nowadays is all about "tourism", hence it is aptly right for Palawan to take part of it.

Palawan is not purely Tagalog at all. It's a mixed up of different other regional cultures found in that province. Palawan, if you tried to trace back history has long been trading with Iloilo province, too. We have direct flights to Puerto Princesa way back then. So trading between the two cities is not a question at all.

Being the biggest, that we don't know of yet. Southern Tagalog, I think will remain the biggest in terms of area (or really probably Western Visayas now). I am not so sure with it. The only thing I am thinking right now is the expanded role of Iloilo City in the region. The traffic will be worsen more as more and more Palawanons will troop the city to get or process their papers being Iloilo City as the regional capital of the region. Hopefully, it will not create a havoc or chaos within the city considering that the region's population is one of the highest in the country less Palawan. Anyway, I hope everybody will welcome this development positively.

MIMAROPA (region 4-B) will soon be non existence, I guess. With the advent of further moving Romblon to Western Visayas, Mindoro and Masbate will gradually be part of Southern Tagalog region (region 4-A). It is a wise decision for national government to trim down some of the regions as offices and personnel will be lesssen as well. Part and parcel of it I guess is due to national budgetting. I'm positive of all of these realignments.

Anyways, it will be a great boom in terms of tourism for Western Visayas ... Boracay (Aklan), Guimaras and now with Palawan. Great, indeed!

wecky

June 4th, 2005, 08:21 PM

Saturday, June 04, 2005
Floodway project to continue late 2005

* The P4.2-billion project's civil works component is segmented into two packages
* Package 1 is for the improvement of Aganan River, Tigum River and Jaro Floodway while Package 2 is composed of the rehabilitation of Iloilo River, Jaro River Mouth and Upper Ingore Creek

THE P4.2-billion Iloilo Flood Control Project will resume on the last quarter of this year, the City Planning and Development Office said.

The project's civil works component is segmented into two packages. Package 1, which still undergoing bidding, is for the improvement of Aganan River, Tigum River and Jaro Floodway. Six pre-qualified contractors have been qualified to bid.

Package 2 is composed of the rehabilitation of Iloilo River, Jaro River Mouth and Upper Ingore Creek. The bidding was held last March 11 and the winning bidder will be known third week of July.

The project is funded by the 25th yen loan package from Japan Bank for International Cooperation. The government counterpart for the right of way acquisition is P899 million.

Last January, Malacañang scrapped the foreign-funded P3.7-billion Iloilo Flood Control Project for lack of funds. Its Phase II is supposed to be funded by Y6.8-billion loan from the JBIC.

The cancellation was decided during the January 10 meeting of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo with the Department of Finance and Japanese Finance Minister Sadakazu Tanigaki.

Fifth district Representative Rolex Suplico earlier disclosed the agreement was to scrap over P16 billion (Y30.8 billion) worth of projects, including the Iloilo Flood Control Project, from the JBIC loans because of the National Government's failure to provide the peso counterpart required.

But Arroyo later said the flood control project was not cancelled because it is a priority project. The President said she had instructed Presidential Adviser for Western Visayas Rafael Coscolluela to ensure the project pushes through.

(from Sunstar Iloilo News Online)

wecky

June 5th, 2005, 08:18 AM

http://www.philippines-hotels.us/iloilo-hotels/images/paraw_dinagyang.jpg

TRULY ILOILO ! ! !

wecky

June 5th, 2005, 08:27 AM

http://www001.upp.so-net.ne.jp/gaki/iloilomu.jpg

THE MUSEO ILOILO

wecky

June 5th, 2005, 08:04 PM

Badiangan town gears up for
2nd Pandayan Festival

BADIANGAN, Iloilo – Preparations are now underway for the 2nd Pandayan Festival in this municipality on June 18, 2005.

The activity is in line with the town’s 37th Municipal and Religious Fiesta on June 24, in honor of its patron saint, St. John the Baptist.

Pandayan Festival is a secular and occupational festival showcasing the famous “Bingauan Bolo” and the bolo-making industry or “pandayan” in Brgy. Bingauan. Known for its durability and manifold functions, the “Bingauan Bolo” is popular in local markets and are given away as token to friends and guests.

‘This is a unique and one-of-a-kind festival that features metal musical instruments and showcases the best Badiangan has to offer like the instant tahu, hablon, and other native products of the municipality,’ said Badiangan Mayor Suzette Mamon.

Seven contesting groups will participate during the street dancing and Pandayan Presentation Competition on June 18. The groups were named after the various types of “bolo” and knives produced by the blacksmiths of Brgy. Bingauan.

Aside from the street dancing and Pandayan Presentation Competition, other activities lined up during the weeklong festival are the Sangguniang Kabataan-sponsored Search for Miss Pandayan 2005 on June 17, the Department of Education-led Laro ng Lahi on June 19, and the Municipal Agriculture Office’s “Pagwapa Idik” and “Dakpanay Idik” on June 20.

(from Panay News Online)

wecky

June 5th, 2005, 08:11 PM

http://www.iloilo.net/dot/iloilo111.jpg

wecky

June 5th, 2005, 08:15 PM

Singapore Intl. Foundation here in Iloilo...

The Singapore International Foundation, the Youth Expedition team made of tripartite parties comprising of NGEE ANN POLYTECHNIC, AG HOME and AWWA TEACH ME INC. donated 20 units of computers, 15 of which will be given to the Association of Disabled Persons – Iloilo and 5 for the SPED School Iloilo City. The team is composed of 34 Singaporean youth volunteers headed by Theodore Teo Tze-Tzeow who arrived in Iloilo City last May 5, 2005. They will give a ten-day Trainor’s Training on Information Technology scheduled on May 6-15, 2005.

The Association of Persons With Disabilities of the Province of Iloilo and the DSWD will conduct Leadership Training on May 16 & 17, 2005 at Punta Villa, Iloilo City. Thirty (30) persons with disabilities from different municipalities in the Province of Iloilo are expected to attend the said training. (PSWDO).

(from : http://elgu.ncc.gov.ph/ecommunity/iloilo/index.php?id1=12&id2=7&id3=0&show3rdlevel=1)

wecky

June 5th, 2005, 08:17 PM

Dr. Ricardo S. Provido Sr. Memorial District Hospital – Cleanest and Greenest Hospital in Iloilo

Iloilo City – The Dr. Ricardo S. Provido Sr. Memorial District Hospital of Calinog was awarded as the cleanest and greenest hospital in the Province of Iloilo during the 1st Hospital Recognition and Reward Program held yesterday at the Iloilo Provincial Capitol.

The said hospital was also awarded for its initiative in putting up a seedling nursery as its income generating project, most improved emergency room, and waste management initiative by using cost effective fuel.

The Ramon Tabiana Memorial District Hospital of Cabatuan placed second in the cleanest and greenest search and also cited for its most functional rehabilitation service.

The Iloilo Provincial Hospital in Pototan landed on third place and named to have well-established herbal/medicinal plant garden.

Other awardees under hospital initiatives were Rep. Pedro G. Trono Memorial District Hospital of Guimbal which was awarded for its initiated improvement on dietary complex; Jesus M. Colmenares District Hospital of Balasan for its vegetable garden as its income generating initiative and best hospital bulletin presentation during the Semana sang Iloilo; Dr. Ricardo Y. Ladrido Memorial District Hospital of Lambunao for its waste transfer and segregation; and Dumangas District Hospital for its functional watchers complex.

The judging was based on the following criteria: I GENERAL CLEANLINESS- A) Absence of Eyesores and Nuisance in service areas (solid waste management and maintenance of lawns and other hospital areas); B) Maintenance of facilities in service areas (toilets, plumbing system, water supply, drainage system, waste dumping site and with perimeter fence); C) Observance of Healthy and Environment-Friendly practices in service areas (waste segregation, solid waste management, water available and treated and availability, insect and vermin control program, infection control regular sanitation inspection); II. BEAUTIFICATION AND GREENING OF SPACES; and LAUNCHING AND SUPPORT OF BENCHMARK PROJECT & HEALTH SERVICES INITIATIVES.

The search for the cleanest and greenest district hospitals in the province is being initiated by the Provincial Health Office- Hospital Operation and Management Service (HOMS), which serves as means of motivating district hospitals and its staff in maintaining a conducive hospital area. That includes the maintenance of health facilities to make it effective in delivering basic services to Ilonggo community.

A cash award of P5,000 and a plaque were awarded to 1st place while the 2nd and 3rd placers will receive P3,000 and P2,000, respectively. Winners in Category A received P1,000 cash award each.

The awarding ceremony was led by Provincial Administrator Manuel P. Mejorada, Board Member Cecilia Capadosa (in behalf of Gov. Niel D. Tupas, Sr.), Board Member Domingo Oso, chair committee on health with Dr. Judy Ann Dumayas, Ma. Salvacion Dura, DOH – Center for Health Development No. 6, Dr. Glenn Alonsabe , Aniceta Pabiona and Alma Ravena, HRMO. (Capitol News)

(from : http://elgu.ncc.gov.ph/ecommunity/iloilo/index.php?id1=12&id2=7&id3=0&show3rdlevel=1)

wecky

June 5th, 2005, 08:19 PM

Crossroad 2005 delegates visit capitol

By Ian C. Espada

Iloilo City – The Crossroad 2005 delegates visited the Iloilo Provincial Capitol yesterday.

The delegates took breakfast at the Capitol’s Ted’s La Paz, Bachoy and were welcomed by the performance of the Bola-Bola Tribe of Iloilo National High School at the lobby that served as provincial treats.

No other than Board Member Cecelia H. Capadosa warmly welcomed the delegates in behalf of Iloilo Gov. Niel D. Tupas, Sr. who, as of press time, in Manila for the awarding of Gawad Pangulo sa Kapaligiran.

The Crossroads 2005 is a youth exchange program that aims to provide a venue for interaction among the youth from the different regions in the Philippines, which will be made possible through the interactions of the chapters from the five areas of the Junior Chamber of the Philippines and in cooperation with the Perlas International Foundation, Inc.

These forces will move toward a common vision for the youth – a generation with a keen social awareness and responsibility through exposure to the country’s history, culture and tradition, education, politics, trade, economic and social development. This project will run from May 7 to May 21, 2005.

The JCIP-Iloilo, Inc. (Iloilo Jaycees, Inc.) served as tour guides for the Crossroad 2005 delegates.

The JCIP-Iloilo, an affiliate of the Junior Chamber of the Philippines and of the Junior Chamber International, is a non-profit leadership training organization of young men from various professions, which aims to develop and enhance the leadership skills of its members through various socio-economic activities like the Crossroad 2005.

(from : http://elgu.ncc.gov.ph/ecommunity/iloilo/index.php?id1=12&id2=7&id3=0&show3rdlevel=1)

wecky

June 6th, 2005, 03:34 AM

http://www.artie.com/20040726/arg-dancing-back-to-school-red-on-white-url.gif

TO ALL ILONGGO STUDENTS ! YEHOO !

wecky

June 6th, 2005, 03:38 AM

Tupas: Coal plant to generate jobs, too

By GEROME DALIPE IV

ILOILO – The 100-megawatt coal-fired power plant in Barotac Viejo here will not only assure Iloilo Province and the entire Panay Island of reliable electricity. It will also revive the local coal industry and generate jobs.

These are the reasons why putting up the plant is desirable, said Barotac Viejo Mayor Raul Tupas over public affairs program Reklamo Publiko yesterday.

Independent Power Producer Mirant Global Philippines will be constructing the plant, the operation of which, Tupas said, would boost the local economy bring social benefits.

He also allayed fears that the coal-fired power plant would endanger the environment. Coal is the “cheapest and cleanest” source of energy, he argued.

Tupas, the president of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP) – Iloilo Chapter, revealed that over 50 new graduates every year come up to his office and asking for jobs.

“Unfortunately, we could only accommodate them all,” he lamented. “But if Mirant Philippines will be operating here, we hope to give more than 100 jobs to our constituents in Barotac Viejo and neighboring towns.”

His father, Iloilo Gov. Niel Tupas, earlier assured Ilonggos that Mirant’s coal-fired power plant would be using “clean” technology. He assured oppositors to the project that they would be listened to.

“In my office, I give democratic space for those who continue to oppose,” Tupas said.
The mayor, however, believes that majority of the people of Barotac Viejo are ready to accept the project in anticipation of a power crisis in a year or two.

“This is not just my personal decision. The entire community has been considered. Kaayuhan ang madulot sini,” stressed Tupas.

The Department of Energy (DOE) had said that Panay Island needed an additional 100 megawatts (MW) by 2006.

Studies have shown that in the past years, the power demand for Panay Island had been growing by eight percent annually. If this trend continues, Panay will need an additional capacity of about 100 megawatts by year 2008.

Electricity demand in Panay is growing from 7.5 percent to 7.7 percent each year because of growing tourism and economic activities, DOE Undersecretary Guillermo Balce explained.

Two years ago, Panay Island experienced two to five hour brownouts because of power supply shortage. Then, the island sourced its power from Leyte geothermal plant via submarine cables passing Cebu and Negros.

Lately, the proposed 40MW power plant in Negros Oriental that aims to augment the power supply of the Cebu-Negros-Panay grid did not push through. DOE, Balce said, did not want to have a mad scramble putting up “band-aid” solutions such as deployment of power barges and construction of small diesel-fired power plants.

A base load power plant is needed to maintain the reliability of supply and tackle the long-term power requirements in a major tourism region like Western Visayas, stressed Balce.

A 24-hour operating power plant running at high capacity is considered the most efficient and viable power source, Balce said.

(from Panay News Online)

This is one of the biggest issue discussed all over Iloilo for the last few months. Wonder what will be the result of it?

wecky

June 6th, 2005, 10:42 AM

Monday, June 06, 2005
Kalahi forum conducted with business groups

REPRESENTATIVES from the private/business sectors recently met with members of the Regional Kalahi Core Group members to initiate the forging of a strategic and dynamic partnership at sub-national level in responding to the priorities defined by partner beneficiaries in Kalahi communities.

Kalahi or Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan is the Arroyo administration's flagship anti-poverty program. It employs a focused, accelerated, convergent and expanded (Face) strategy to reduce poverty.

The forum sought to orient private and business sector groups on priority government anti-poverty programs and projects and present the range of development projects the government and non-government organization have provided to Kalahi areas in Region 6 as well as the gaps and continuing needs in those communities.

More importantly, the forum also sought to identify and explore areas of possible cooperation as initial phase of the partnership building and if visible, get commitments from participants to extend concrete assistance to targeted areas.

Presidential Assistant for Western Visayas Rafael Coscolluela, who organized the forum, said the meeting was first in a series of for a his office will initiate to bring about closer cooperation and coordination among the different stakeholders both from the private/business and government sector in implementing the Kalahi programs.

Eight business groups, including the League of Corporate Foundation, Chinese-Filipino Business Club, Employers Confederation of the Philippines, Makati Business Club (MBC), have so far committed over P1.3 billion to poverty initiatives from 2002 to 2004, which focused on employment and livelihood creation.

The Kalahi programs are now implemented through: Kalahi Urban which is designed to address directly and indirectly the needs of the urban poor communities:, Kalahi rural which are pre-identified rural poor communities selected based on poverty incidence and large gap in asset reform;

Kalahi-Cidss which is a World Bank-assisted project which seeks to empower poor communities through enhanced participation in barangay governance and involvement in the design, implementation and management of anti-poverty initiatives;

Kalahi local initiatives which are demand driven projects initiated by the local government and civil society groups; Kalahi in Agrarian Reform Zones; and Kalahi Para sa Kalayaan, which is part of the peace building and conflict prevention efforts of government.

(from Sunstar Iloilo News Online)

wecky

June 7th, 2005, 12:54 AM

Kayaba Festival on June 25
By GEROME DALIPE IV

ILOILO City – The 2nd Kayaba Festival: Iloilo – Guimaras Cross Channel Swim has been formally launched with the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) among media partners and major sponsors at the Fort San Pedro Drive-Inn.

The festival will be staged on June 25. Conceptualized by MBC’s Aksyon Radyo-Iloilo, it aims to promote the tourism industry of the provinces of Iloilo and Guimaras; create public awareness on the preservation of the Iloilo River; and encourage endurance swimming as a competitive sport.

The Kayaba Festival will soon be included in the Visit Iloilo-Guimaras program of the two provinces.

“Nagapasalamat ako sa paghiwat liwat sang Kayaba Festival diri sa aton siyudad kay makabulig gid ini promote sang turismo sa Iloilo,” said Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas who attended the MOA signing.

Among the events of festival are:

• Kayaba Langoy, a 7.2 nautical miles (three to four kilometers) swimming competition from the Jordan wharf, Guimaras to Fort San Pedro, Iloilo
• Search for Mr. and Ms. Kayaba Bodies 2005, a beauty, body and brains competition for both male and female residents of Iloilo and Guimaras Province; and
• Kayaba Sinadya, a variety show to be participated in by local radio and TV personalities at the Fort San Pedro.

During the first Kayaba Festival in 2003, over 150 participants joined the Kayaba Langoy from Buenavista wharf, Guimaras to Muelle Loney in Iloilo.

Among the media partners of the 2nd Kayaba Festival 2005 are Panay News, Hublas, Love Radio, Yes Fm, ABS-CBN TV-10, Cable Star Inc., News Today, and Aksyon Radyo Communicators Group.

(from Panay News Online)

wecky

June 7th, 2005, 01:10 AM

Governors plan to build bridges connecting 3 islands

First posted 01:19am (Mla time) June 07, 2005
By Romy G. Amarado
Inquirer News Service

DUMAGUETE CITY-Governors from eight provinces in Central and Western Visayas have agreed to explore the possibility of building bridges that will link the three islands.

They have agreed in principle to set aside part of their Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) for the project.

Oriental Negros Gov. George P. Arnaiz, in a press conference held last week, said the governors initially discussed the project during the meeting of the League of Provinces in Manila last week.

The project was jointly initiated by Negros Occidental Gov. Joseph Marañon and Arnaiz.

"Governor Marañon and I talked about the possibility of constructing bridges that would link the islands of Panay, Negros and Cebu. When we brought the matter to the governors of Cebu, Iloilo, Capiz, Aklan, Antique and Guimaras, everybody was excited," Arnaiz said.

Arnaiz said that if the project materialized, they could expect more economic activities between the two regions.

Iloilo, Capiz, Aklan and Antique are on Panay Island; the island-province of Guimaras and Negros Occidental are under Western Visayas (Region 6). Oriental Negros and Cebu are part of Central Visayas (Region 7).

Arnaiz said the governors agreed to construct a bridge linking Panay and Negros, and another bridge linking Negros and Cebu.

Arnaiz also said the governors agreed to borrow money from international funding institutions, such as the KFW Bank of Germany and the Asian Development Bank, to finance the project.

Each province will set aside at least P20 million a year to pay for the loan. The money will be taken from their IRAs.

He said proceeds from the bridges' toll could also be set aside to pay for the loan.

Arnaiz said they all agreed to seek the help of the national government in pushing through with the project.

Arnaiz said he met with President Macapagal-Arroyo in Malacañang and she did not only express support for the project, but also noted that this was the first time that a group of local government units made such a proposal.

Arnaiz added that the President even requested the Department of Public Works and Highways to look into the possibility of conducting a feasibility study on the proposal of the governors.

He said that if the national government did not have money to conduct the feasibility study, the eight provinces would contribute to finance the study.

(from Inquirer Online News)

wecky

June 7th, 2005, 01:12 AM

OWWA marks migrant worker’s day today

ILOILO City – To observe Migrant Worker’s Day, the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration VI (OWWA VI) is hosting several activities today at the 3rd Floor of SM City in Mandurriao District.

The observance will kick-off with a mass at 9 a.m. to be followed by a short program. After the program, medical mission, legal counseling and blood letting will be conducted up to 3 p.m.

Activities will be participated in by the Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their dependents.

Invited to speak during the program are Department of Labor and Employment VI Regional Director Carlos Boteros and Carmelina Velasques, OWWA Director Fund and Investment Management Office.

Also, solidarity messages will be given by Engr. Felipe Lim, President of Panay Negros Services Exporter Association, Nelson Launio, a seaman, and Valentina Roldan, a land-based OFW.

Other highlights of the program are: awarding of Plaque of Recognition to Gale Launio, an OWWA scholar who graduated cum-laude this year at the West Visayas State University (WVSU) and scholarship grants to the 13 new OWWA scholars for this school year 2005-2006.

Four beneficiaries from the region will receive their certificate of Eligibility for OWWA’s Groceria Project to OFW Family Circles.

The annual observance is held to recognize the personal sacrifices of migrant workers in the country and their significant contribution to national development.

(from Panay News Online)

wecky

June 7th, 2005, 01:20 AM

Synergy

Synergy means synchronized energy. It means coordinated objectives and efforts directed toward the achievement of common goals. In tourism, synergy means all groups in the government and private sectors investing resources to make this industry stronger and better. It means shared conviction that tourism, given proper direction and support can be a potent antidote to the long-sick economy of the Philippines.

Recent and on-going tourism activities are examples of synergy in Western Visayas. Hopefully, all these activities will filter down to the grassroots so that the blessings of tourism can be enjoyed by as wide a portion of the population as possible.

Synergy is strongly felt in the…

Iloilo Media-Travel Group Fun Tour, Bacolod City
(May 27, 2005)

This was more than a fun tour! It was total immersion in the hospitality of the Negrenses from start to finish. The Negros private sector group led by Celso “Toots” Jimenez who owns Micro Ad Management, event organizer, and JB Mapa, Manager of Tricat-SuperCat 2002 , sponsor of the tour, met us at the Iloilo Pier and made sure that every one was enjoying the trip. The lecture conducted by the captain at the bridge of the ship was truly educational and the TriCat- SuperCat profile Mr. Mapa gave us said it all.

The 50-meter TriCat has a capacity of 403 passengers. It is equipped with state of the art navigational instruments such as night vision and global positioning systems. It is

also equipped with internationally certified safety equipment. The vessel's plush interiors provide passengers seating comfort unsurpassed by any other fast craft company in the Philippines.

The mobile tour in Bacolod City was on board the van/s provided by Jomabo Island Paradise Beach Resort of Escalante City, Negros Occidental. Jomabo Island is a two-hour drive from Bacolod City to the port of Vito where guests are transported to this beautiful island resort via a-20 minute motorboat ride. Our fun tour of Bacolod City wouldn't have been complete without the stopover at the Negros Occidental Provincial Capitol. It afforded us an opportunity to feast on the sight of ABS-CBN big stars who met the press with Gov. Joseph Marañon. Then we were brought to the Ayala North Point, the most modern and luxurious of residential subdivisions in this part of the Philippines. Business must be good at Palmas del Mar Resort, our next stop, because the place was teeming with visitors even on a weekday. The very amiable manager Ronnie Lizares was there waiting at the entrance of the resort to welcome visitors as they arrive. Perhaps, his happy disposition and spontaneity in dealing with people is one big factor for the success of the resort. The little contest conducted by Mr. Mapa and Mr. Jimenez had playing cards from Casino Filipino Hotel and complimentary passes on board Tricat/SuperCat 2002 as prizes to the winners. Our last stop was an opportunity to appreciate the interesting features of Casino Filipino Hotel, Bacolod City. The SuperCat, Palmas del Mar and Casino Filipino Hotel are accredited with the Department of Tourism as Tourist Water Transport, Class A Resort and First Class Hotel, respectively.

We thank our Bacolod City and Negros Occidental hosts for that memorable tour.

-0-

Our tourism calendar has three big events ,namely,The Best of the Region in Intramuros ( Kabugana-an sang Western Visayas sa Intramuros)on June 15-28, 2005. This is a showcase of the bounties of Western Visayas in terms of arts, history and culture. It is also a showcase of the cooperation of the Department of Tourism on the one hand and the private sector and local government units of Western Visayas on the other; the Philippine-Spain Friendship Week Celebration in Iloilo City on June 27-July 3, 2005. The historical and cultural legacies of Spain as manifested in architecture, cuisine, dances and songs of Iloilo permeate every aspect of Ilonggo lifestyle. The celebration will be an appropriate occasion to trace Iloilo's Spanish legacy and strengthen Ilonggo-Spanish connection that could be both an inspiring and educational experience for the visitors and the local residents; and the 16 th Philippine Travel Mart at SM Mega Mall, Mandaluyong City on September 9-11, 2005, an annual event that showcases the tourist attractions, facilities and business opportunities of the Philippines in one venue. The local government units, private sector groups of Western Visayas are consistent participants in this annual event with the Department of Tourism as major sponsor.

(from The News Today Online)

wecky

June 7th, 2005, 01:54 AM

Iloilo - Boracay - Bacolod

Location/Positioning

Iloilo is in the center of the Philippines archipelago. Strategically located 283 statue miles from Manila, it is the gateway to the flourishing region of Western Visayas. It has two cities and 43 municipalities with a total land area of 523,97 hectares. Iloilo is also the cultural, educational, religious, economic, and administrative capital of Region VI. With its rich cultural heritage and history, the province of Iloilo can be positioned as a cultural destination.

Boracay Island is located at the northwestern tip of Panay. It belongs to the Municipality of Malay, Aklan and it is composed of three barangays: Yapak, Manoc-Manoc and Balabag. The best part of the island is its four-kilometer white beach situated at the west coast between Sitio Angol in Barangay Manoc-Manoc and Balabag. Well traveled visitors claim it to be one of Asia's finest beaches. This small island has become the prime destination in the Philippines and it is positioned as a sun-beach and holiday destination.

The City of Bacolod is located at the northern part of Negros Occidental, northwest of Negros Oriental and southeastern part of the province of Iloilo. It is the capital city and entry point to the province of Negros Occidental. Aside from having culture and history, Bacolod City has excellent convention facilities making it a convention destination.

Getting to And Around

Iloilo

By Air
Three major airlines (Philippines Airlines, Air Philippines and Cebu Pacific Air) serve Iloilo daily via direct flights from Manila and back. Air Philippines and Cebu Pacific Air run connecting flights from Davao/General Santos via Cebu to Iloilo.

Other carriers like Asian Spirit, Seair and charter planes are available daily serving Busuanga, El Nido, Taytay, Cuyo and Coron from Manila.

By Sea
There are three (3) major commercial vessels catering to direct route of Manila to Iloilo to the rest of the Visayas and Mindanao.

By Land
Buses, taxis, jeepneys and tricycles are the modes of transport within the city and inter-town connections. Buses provide regular trips from Iloilo City to the rest of the surrounding provinces including trips from Iloilo City to the rest of the surrounding provinces including trips to Manila via the Strong Republic Nautical Highway (SNRH) through Roll-on-Roll-off (RoRo).

Boracay

By Air
Boracay is accessible by plane (Philippines Airlines, Cebu Pacific, Asian Spirit and SEA Air) from Manila and Cebu City via Kalibo, Caticlan and the adjacent provinces in Panay Island (Iloilo/Roxas City, Capiz)..

By Sea
The cheaper route when going to Boracay from Manila is by boat to the town of Dumaguit, Batan, New Washington on the north coast of Panay then by public bus or jeepney to Caticlan or by air-conditioned shuttle bus from Kalibo Airport. There is also an alternate route by boat from surrounding islands like Mindoro and Tablas/Romblon.

By Land
Tricycles, motorbikes and multicabs (for hire) are the mode of transport within the island.

Bacolod

By Air
Bacolod can be accessed by three major airline companies (Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific and Air Philippines) that also run connecting flights to various parts of the Visayas and Mindanao.

By Sea
Two major sea vessels, the WG & A from Superferry and Negros Navigation Co., ply the route from Manila to Bacolod as well 5 minor commercial vessels that connect it to the rest of the Visayas and Mindanao.

By Land
Buses, taxis, jeepneys and tricycles are the main mode of transport within the city. However, buses provide regular trips from Bacolod and other towns. Centers to the rest of the surrounding provinces.

Tourist Statistics

Visitor Arrivals

2000 2001 2002 2003
Iloilo 169,352 159,885 207,780 214,690
Boracay 229,844 264,807 300,792 339,434
Bacolod 151,263 89,474 169,365 221,813

Occupancy Rate %

2000 2001 2002 2003
Iloilo 27.89 29.60 33.7 34.38
Boracay 32.80 30.78 40.61 34.22
Bacolod 22.72 24.46 24.76 46.58

Present Capacities, 2004

Rooms
Iloilo 4,806
Boracay 3,004
Bacolod 503

Tourist Attractions

Iloilo

Plaza Libertad
La Villa de Arevalo
Jaro District (old houses)
Jaro Cathedral
Molo District
Molo Church
Miag-ao Church
Iloilo Golf and Country Club (Santa Barbara)
San Joaquin Church
Fort San Pedro
Museo Iloilo
Nelly Garden
Lopez Boathouse
Garin Farm

Boracay

Famous for its world-class powder-fine, white beaches, the 1,000 hectare island also boasts of a number of natural tourist attractions like the Preserved Dead Forest which is located on the eastern side of the island and the Bat Caves located on the northern end of the island. These caves are dwelling places of thousands of fruit eating bats.

Bacolod

Mt. Kanlaon Natural Park
Mambukal Mountain Resort
Buenos Aires Mountain Resort
The Quiet Place Farm Resort
Natures Village Resort
Lawakon Island
Jomabo Island Paradise Resort
Steam Locomotives of Central Azucarera de La Carlota and Silay
Provincial Capitol Park and Lagoon
San Sebastian Cathedral
Negros Museum
Balay Negrense
Rafael Salas Nature Park
Hacienda Luisa Botanical Mountain Resort
Palmas del Mar Resort
VMC Golf and Country Club
Balay Kalamay

Tourism Development Directions

Iloilo

The main goal of the sub-sector of Tourism is to make Iloilo City the primary tourist destination and gateway to the Western Visayan Region through the local government unit involving the private sector in all tourism activities an straightening in the process city's tourism-related organizations and support groups.
The Iloilo City government should promote a sustainable tourism industry based on environment-friendly technologies, environmental sanitation, positive Ilonggo values and attitudes and social equity, issue an executive order deploying trained and appropriately uniformed tourist police to protect and assist local and foreign tourists; issue an executive order creating a Tourism TV channel, which will establish linkages and coordination among different agencies, NGOs and GOs in the promotion of tourism; increase tourists' interest in Ilonggo culture, inculcate among Ilonggos the appreciation of local cultural heritage; identify restore, develop and preserve the cultural heritage and historical landmarks; conduct research and development training to ensure sustained interest in the industry; and package and promote Iloilo's heritage and culture through aggressive marketing in local, national and international markets. Another planned development in Iloilo City is the establishment of a one stop shop for the convenience of tourists. Iloilo City is also looking forward to more effective traffic management to lessen the travel time that will allow tourists to maximize their time and visit more interesting places.
For the Iloilo province, there are outlined and proposed major developments. There is a need for expansion and upgrading of existing wharves in the coastal municipalities such as Carles, Estancia, Concepcion, Barotac Vejo, Banate, Dumangas, Ajuy, Guimbal and San Joaquin,. Four major transport facilities and the rehabilitation and expansion of the railways system from Iloilo City to Capiz are proposed to be undertaken. An airport of international standard will accommodate international flights and will increase tourist arrivals. Widening of road network to the new airport is needed from Iloilo City to the new airport.

Boracay

The focus of tourism development will revolve around upgraded infrastructure and efficient utilities, a rehabilitated, protected and nurtured environment and the preservation of the local cultural heritage. Specifically, this involves upgrading the airport, roads, bridges, ports and jetties as well as ensuring that all power, telecommunications and water utilities are operating efficiently. Moreover, the integration and inclusion of environment-friendly measures should be the primary concern of all development initiatives of the Municipality.
The Department of Trade and Industry has endorsed to Malacañang to declare the ecovillage resort operated by Filipino owned Boracay Property Holdings Inc. as a tourism economic zone in anticipation of the increased number of tourists to the Philippines.

Bacolod

Bacolod aims to increase the visitor arrivals by at least 20% annually by positioning Bacolods as the convention city of Western Visayas and a premiere destination for tourism-related sports and special interest/leisure activities. The city also applies marketing strategies to generate more investments to create more tourism related jobs.
The city government also claims to increase the revenue/tax collections for tourism-related establishments to be used for further tourism development. Il also wants to achieve and maintain high quality standards and services for the convenience and satisfaction of visitors and tourists that are visiting the city and the province.
Since Bacolod city and other towns in Negros Occidental have rich historical and cultural attractions, the city also spearheads the development of art and culture to preserve its cultural legacy. It also organizes advocacy programs for environmental awareness and basic value orientation for ecotourism and sustainable programs.

Required Infrastructure Facilities

Iloilo

Concreting and extension of roads leading to priority destinations
Clean public restrooms along the hi-way and major thoroughfares
Communication facilities especially in remote towns with ecotourism potentials
Upgrading of public/private wharves
Establishment of additional banking facilities
Completion of new modern airport of international standard
Provision and maintenance of tourist transport facilities
Improvement of land transportation terminals

Boracay

Improvement/maintenance/completion of the major and alternate wharves in Caticlan and Boracay
Maintenance of road network leading to Caticlan and Boracay as jump-off to Boracay
Establishment of additional communication facilities
Provision of additional emergency facilities and renationalizing of the Boracay Hospital
Improvement and maintenance of road network within the island
Improvement of solid waste management system
Establishment of additional banking facilities
Establishment of a new and tourist-friendly market facilities in place of the existing ones

Bacolod

Establishment and upgrading of existing communication facilities
Establishment of a tourism information counters at entry ports
Maintenance of road network
Completion of the Bacolod Airport of international standard
Provision and maintenance of tourism transport facilities

Local Incentives

Iloilo

In addition to the incentives provided by the law, all registered and qualified persons or entity, both foreign and local, who is investing within the territorial jurisdiction of the City of Iloilo shall enjoy the following incentives starting from the date of start of actual commercial operation;

Exemption from local licenses, fees, and dues. A registered enterprise under this ordinance shall be fully exempt from the mayor's permit fees, building permit fees, and other kind of local licenses, fees and dues, except for regulatory fees.
Reduction of Business Tax. Registered enterprises subject to the period of availment shall be entitled to reduced business taxes based on gross sales or receipts earned or realized during the proceeding calendar year.

Boracay

In encouraging, promoting and strengthening economic activities in identified investment priority areas, the Municipal Investment and Incentive Code of Malay, Aklan has provided investors with the following:

Tax Incentives for Registered Enterprises. Under this Code, all newly registered enterprises with a capitalization of not less than 5 million and above and existing enterprises with an additional capitalization of at least three (3) million and above shall be granted the following incentives:

Fiscal Incentives (e.g., mayor's permit, building permit, local clearance and business tax )

The grant of fiscal is not motu propio hence the grantee shall apply for availment of the aforesaid grants with the appropriate municipal agency.
Business tax exemption as an incentive shall only be extended to the grantee in the first year of operation.
Non-Fiscal Incentives

Site selection and conveyance negotiation assistance
Ones top documentation center/processing of applications
Labor recruitment and arbitration assistance
Incentives granted to existing enterprises shall apply only to additional capitalization and shall not include previous investments. In no case however, shall privilege to incentives be transferred from one legal grantee to another and shall be enjoyed on one occasion only.

Bacolod

The Bacolod City Investment Code of 2002, among others, states that investors enjoying incentives under E.O. 226, RA 7844, RA 7916, RA 7718 and RA 8289, shall be exempted from the following:

Payment of building fees, business fees, business sales taxes and other fees and charges imposed by existing City Ordinance. The exemption for business fees, sales taxes and other fees shall be for a minimum period of five (5) years from the date of approved by the Board
Payment of basic real property tax imposed by existing City Ordinance on improvements, but only for improvements introduced by the investor. In the case of an already existing improvement, the exemption shall apply only to the increase in the assessment because of rehabilitation, adoption, expansion, or introduction of equipment/machineries. The exemption shall be maximum period of five (5) years from the date of approval by the Board.

(from : http://www.tourism.gov.ph/dot/inv_bora.asp)

wecky

June 7th, 2005, 07:37 AM

Logistic center eyed in new airport

By Leny G. Gabo

Here comes another form of investment in the province.

Engr. Pepe Tioco, one of the advisers of Iloilo governor Niel D. Tupas Sr., disclosed that a foreign investor is planning to put up a logistic center in the future Iloilo International Airport in Cabatuan-Sta. Barbara area.

Tioco said the investor coming from Saudi Arabia in a communication addressed to the provincial governor expressed interest in putting up the logistic center that would cover services such as cargo handling, packaging and baggage at the airport.

Tioco said the proposed project if realized would create more employment and income for the province. It would also be an investment opportunity for the province.

He added that initial talks had already been made with the Air Transportation Office (ATO) with regard to the project.

(from The News Today Online)

wecky

June 9th, 2005, 12:21 AM

Iloilo is clean and green finalist

ILOILO City was among the finalists in the 2004 Gawad Pangulo sa Kapaligiran (GPK) national clean and green competition.

The GPK-Clean and Green contest is an annual event aimed at improving the nation’s environment. The activity enables local government units (LGUs) and their respective constituencies to maintain the cleanliness of their surroundings.

Iloilo was one of the cities that made it to the national competition after it emerged winner in the regional tilt.

Other finalists under the highly urbanized cities category are Olongapo, Lucena, Cebu, Zamboanga, Iligan, Davao, General Snatos and Butuan.

General Services Office assistant department head Raul Gallo said among the sites that were rated by the regional evaluating team are the City Hall building, the different city public markets and government schools, the Calajunan dumpsite and the city’s nurseries.

The evaluation was done through ocular inspections, spot interviews and review of pertinent documents as agreed upon between the LGUs concerned and the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG).
The DILG is the implementing agency of the competition.

On his part, Mayor Jerry Treñas stressed that maintaining cleanliness and greening the metropolis should not only be practiced because of the competition. Cleaning and greening should be a regular activity for the good of the city and its residents, he said.

(from Panay News Online)

wecky

June 9th, 2005, 12:23 AM

7 groups to vie in Pandayan Festival

ILOILO City – Seven contesting groups will compete in this year’s Pandayan Festival of the Municipality of Badiangan on June 18.

Already on its second year, Pandayan Festival 2005 is a showcase of Badianganon’s ingenuity, craftsmanship and was of life through dance and merrymaking.

It is a secular and occupational festival that features the bingon-making in Brgy. Bingauan, Badiangan, Iloilo.

The promotion of Pandayan Festival is also anchored in the celebration of the 38th Foundation Day of the Municipality of Badiangan on June 17.

This 5th class municipality is located 40 kilometers north of Iloilo City.

The competing groups – composed of clustered barangays and schools – are named after the different kinds of Bingauan binangon or bolo that Badiangan is known for. They are:

• Grupo Binakuko (Tamocol, Agusipan, Cabangan, Cabanga-an, Bingauan, Guinawahan)
• Grupo Pinandak (Tina, Sariri, San Julian, Latawan, Ilongbukid)
• Grupo Sinuwak (Bitaoyan, Malublob, Sinuagan, Astorga)
• Grupo Surot (Iniligan, Catubig, Teneclan, Budiawe)
• Grupo Balintawak (Poblacion, Talaba, Linayuan, Cabyogan)
• Grupo Ginunting (Botong, Mapili Grande, Mapili Sanjo, Calansanan); and
• Grupo Linamay (Manaolan, Odiongan, Mainguit, Indorohan, Sianon).

The performances would highlight the “pandayan” process (blacksmithing or bolo making) and the functions and uses of the various types of pandayan products. Other products of Badiangan may also be incorporated as part of the presentation.

The performers are required to wear peasant costumes made of indigenous material found in the municipality. Hablon, patadyong, wood, sukdap, ramay and ginit may be used.

For headdresses, “pulos” for men and “bandana” for women are required. The use of “buri” hat for men is also suggested.

Live music will accompany the performance. Improvised musical instruments must be iron-based such as metal scarps, steel bars, iron rods and tin plates.

Five special awards are at stake: Best in Performance, Best in Discipline, Best in Music, Best in Costume and Best in Choreography.

(from Panay News Online)

wecky

June 9th, 2005, 12:25 AM

Treñas welcomes Palawan inclusion to WV

By DAVID ISRAEL SINAY

ILOILO City – Mayor Jerry Treñas welcomed Palawan’s inclusion to the Western Visayas region.

Recently, President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo issued Executive Order No. 429 making the province of Palawan and Puerto Princesa City as part of Region 6.

“This will be good for the tourism of Western Visayas,” Treñas said.

Palawan, considered as the country’s “last frontier,” is known for its lush tropical forests, pristine beaches, and rare flora and fauna.

Arroyo said Palawan’s inclusion to Western Visayas would “guarantee the effective delivery of field and public services of government agencies and accelerate social and economic development in the same.”

Treñas said Iloilo would remain as the region’s administrative center thus “madamu ang magapadulong diri kag maga-transact business diri.”

The only thing that worries Treñas is the transportati system going to Palawan.

Palawan can be reached by plane and ship. The vast Sulu Sea separates it from the region’s three major islands of Panay, Guimaras and Negros.

Treñas said Puerto Princesa Mayor Edward Hagedorn expressed happiness over the inclusion of his city to Region 6. But the Province of Palawan had not.

Western Visayas will now be composed of seven provinces – Iloilo, Capiz, Antique, Aklan, Guimaras, Negros Occidental and Palawan – and three highly urbanized city – Iloilo City, Bacolod City and Puerto Princesa City.

Palawan was formerly a part of the Region IV-B.

(from Panay News Online)

wecky

June 9th, 2005, 12:35 AM

http://www.pinoydelikasi.com/db_images/locations/img_iloilo.jpg

LA MUY LEAL Y NOBLE CUIDAD DE ILOILO

sandrin

June 9th, 2005, 02:02 AM

Nice church

wecky

June 9th, 2005, 03:38 PM

hi, sandrin .. it's a symbol of Iloilo's religiosity. It's ST. ANNE's CATHEDRAL in Molo District. You can see it's tower from a distance .. very, very prominent structure, indeed. When you're in Guimaras Strait sailing or boarding on big ship .. or flying by plane ... you can simply noticed this edifice. Truly, it is one of the symbols of Iloilo.

wecky

June 9th, 2005, 03:44 PM

here's an article about my favourite watersports ..

Jetski Competition highlights Wow! Villa Beach
By Wein P. Gadian

One of the highlights in the recently concluded “Wow! Villa Beach” celebration was the Jetski Competition organized by the Iloilo Watersports Association.

Thousands of spectators lined up the shores of Villa Beach last May 29 braving the scorching heat of the sun just to witness the fun and excitement of the famous watersport.

The following participants came out winners: In the 800 cc and below category—Paul Escona, 1st Place; Mike Arimas, 2nd place; and Stanley Solis, 3rd place. Escona and Arimas, who both came from Bacolod, used Seadoo Jetski 800 while Solis was in Kawasaki 900.

In the Open Class 1000 cc and above category, the winners were: 1st Place - Cedric Loring in Kawasaki 1500; 2nd Place - Daniel Atayde in Honda Aqua 1200; 3rd Place - Gerard Mora in a Yamaha 1100.

Another attraction was the Bangkathon or the Power Banca Race where the Wave Blaster Team became the first placer. The Seaboard Team came in second while the Petros Team bagged the third place.

The first ever “Wow Villa Beach” celebration was organized by the Santo Niño Sur Hotels and Restaurant Association in their quest to revive Villa Beach. Games and watersports, beach volleyball and football, tradefairs and fireworks display were part of the weeklong activities which started May 22 and ended May 29. There were also garden shows, porma balas and many more.

(from The News Today Online)

chymera00

June 10th, 2005, 03:07 PM

This is one of the biggest issue discussed all over Iloilo for the last few months. Wonder what will be the result of it?

Hi, Im back! (enrollment in school)

Panay Island is seen to have a power crisis in a few years and since it has no substantial local source of power, a coal-fired power plant seemed like a good idea. The only downside is pollution, but KEPCO said they will employ new technologies that will reduce the effects to the environment.

Now I'm reading of exaggerated power demand forecasts and biased cancellation of Panay-Negros-Cebu-Leyte transmissions, I dont know what to think.

chymera00

June 10th, 2005, 03:10 PM

chymera00

June 10th, 2005, 03:12 PM

wecky

June 11th, 2005, 02:44 AM

welcome back, Chymera .. we missed you for almost as week. Anyway, how's school? Busy? lots of assignments already?

wecky

June 11th, 2005, 02:48 AM

Hi, Im back! (enrollment in school)

Panay Island is seen to have a power crisis in a few years and since it has no substantial local source of power, a coal-fired power plant seemed like a good idea. The only downside is pollution, but KEPCO said they will employ new technologies that will reduce the effects to the environment.

Now I'm reading of exaggerated power demand forecasts and biased cancellation of Panay-Negros-Cebu-Leyte transmissions, I dont know what to think.

I support whatever's best there is for remedy of the looming power crisis in Iloilo. We really, really need the electricity. A loss of electricity for an hour means a million or more looses for businessmen.

wecky

June 11th, 2005, 02:49 AM

WOW ... doing a feasibility study, is a nice first step ... I can't wait to hear more news of this project

i hope it will be realised ... soon !

chymera00

June 11th, 2005, 08:06 AM

welcome back, Chymera .. we missed you for almost as week. Anyway, how's school? Busy? lots of assignments already?

Actually school starts on Monday for us. Enrollment is a pain, actual schooling will be more painful. We have classes from Monday-Saturay from 7am to at least 6pm (1 hour break lng for lunch) except on Friday coz half day lng. amp nmn, I hate nursing already :(

chymera00

June 11th, 2005, 08:46 AM

Paseo Iloilo at Robinson's Place, De Leon St.

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid172/p334c4e04d56ed18ef2fdc19a9f2feff0/f3c09098.jpg

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid172/pa6fb8484a96ebb893fef69e35a384d65/f3c09091.jpg

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid172/p3a89ea31864dd11b4dd8b20704e55fc1/f3c09090.jpg

On top of the Hall of Justice

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid172/pad9985cd8784d1f9871d7dea0978f975/f3c0908d.jpg

Molo District with Molo Church

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid172/pb20694c687512bdb823816a36d4be318/f3c0908f.jpg

St. Paul's University (red roof) and St. Paul's Hospital (green roof at the back)

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid172/p55addaa049e55bfe5846c33ce7849118/f3c09096.jpg

Formerly known as St. Paul's College ... Its college of Nursing is one of the best in the country. Last year, it finished number 1 in its category with 100% passing rate, in the other category West Visayas State University also from Iloilo City got the number 1 spot.

chymera00

June 11th, 2005, 12:13 PM

chymera00

June 11th, 2005, 01:12 PM

Iloilo in Focus
Agho Island Concepcion

http://www.thenewstoday.info/20050610/agho4.jpg

Nature's best at Agho Island
By Wein P. Gadian

Unrivaled sunrise and sunset. Privacy. White sand beach. And Of course, ipil-ipil trees everywhere. These are the scenes you will see in Agho Island, a private, eight-hectare island that's situated 30 minutes away from the mainland of Concepcion town.

It is great for snorkeling, fishing, swimming, diving, and even skinny dipping. There are hiking areas also. One can see Negros island, particularly Manapla town, on the island's highest peak.

Serenity and wild life abound in Agho island.

Guests could have bonfire by the coast, swim all they want, or simply enjoy the sceneries. Agho Island is blessed with nature's best. The long sandbar changes with the direction of the wind.

http://www.thenewstoday.info/20050610/agho1.jpg

When the wind is coming from the amihan, the sandbar is shaped 'C,' and 'U' if it's habagat. A natural swimming pool forms on the early part of the summer.

The rocks which are partly seen during the high tide are connected to the coral reefs. Guests and visitors get to enjoy the colorful corals and other marine resources. The famous clown fishes and others are also found on its aquamarine waters.' Tabon ,' which is a bird specie, inhabit the island. These birds would lay their eggs on the sand for incubation.

Guests and visitors could also experience seeing the unrivaled sunrise and sunset on its opposite sides. They could also see the moonlight reflecting on the still waters during the evenings. And one can tour the island simply by walking on the shore.

http://www.thenewstoday.info/20050610/agho2.jpg

The best time to visit Agho Island is during summer and from November to December. Contact the owner at 09219058208 for permission and details.

Pack your bags and be one with nature!

wecky

June 11th, 2005, 01:45 PM

Camp Delgado to set up Muslim police center

By MONTESA J. GRIÑO

ILOILO City – The Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) is establishing a Muslim police center here. It aims to maintain good police-Muslim relationship in Western Visayas.

To be called the Sala’am Police Center, it will be put up inside Camp Martin Delgado, the headquarters of the PRO-6.

According to Senior Supt. Reynaldo Rafal, PRO-6 Regional Directorial Staff, the Police Community Relations (PCR) will temporarily man the center.

The PRO-6 is currently enlisting the help of Muslim policemen in the region for the center’s establishment.

The other day, Senior Supt. Sehirom Salim of the Sala’am Police Center in Camp Crame met with Muslim policemen in the region. He asked their support.

Rafal also revealed that the PRO-6 envisions one such center in each province of Western Visayas.

There are about 20 Muslim policemen in Region 6.

Other regions already have Muslim police centers. Rafal said the centers have proven themselves effective in maintaining peace and order in their respective areas.

Rafal is confident that the center in Region 6 would prove helpful in settling problems – if there are any – with the Muslim community in the region.

He also hoped that the center would be of big help in the PNP’s campaign against terrorism.

“We don’t want them (Muslims) to harbor terrorists,” he said.

(from Panay News Online)

wecky

June 11th, 2005, 02:00 PM

Iloilo's pre-Spanish development

It is evident that Iloilo's development started long before the coming of the Spaniards. Early Spanish writers like Antonio de Morga, Miguel de Loarca and Franciso Colin attested to the fact that Iloilo had been enjoying a certain degree of civilization at the time of the Spanish contact in the 16 th century (Blair & Robertson, 1903-1909). According to them, the inhabitants fabricated different kinds of boats which they used in fishing and transporting their wares; they also manufactured fishing gears and finished arts; they wove textiles from abaca, cotton, and silk, the last they imported from China and they embroidered and carved sculptures symbolic of their ancestor's spirits. They were expert silversmiths and coppersmiths, working on metals for artistic jewelry and for bedecking their weapons and tools. They also had their own alphabet, their own language, their own music, native dances, epics, and folk songs.

The observations of early Spanish writers that Iloilo had already attained a civilized state when they arrived are backed up by Feodor Jagor, a Prussian traveler who had stayed in the Philippines from 1859-1860. He said that when the Spaniards landed in Panay in the second half of the 16 th century, they found the natives dressed in cotton and silk clothes, the latter they obtained from the Chinese to whom they gave in exchange sapanwood (sibukao), gold dust, dried sea cucumbers, edible swallow's nests, food stuffs and animal skins (Jagor, 1875). Jagor further noted that the Ilonggos at that time traded with Japan, Kampuchea, Siam, the Moluccas, and the Malay archipelago.

Early Spanish writers also attested to Iloilo as having already a flourishing boatbuilding industry. Both Loarca and Morga related that because Panay Island contained great abundance of timber and other resources for construction purposes, Iloilo had a number of shipyards, the most notable of which were in Arevalo and Oton (Blair & Robertson, 1903-1909).

Morga and Loarca further described Iloilo as having many settlements or centers of population that were maintaining substantial contacts with other groups of people from within the Western Visayan region and from without.

The early development of Iloilo and its progress towards the 19 th century as the commercial and cultural center of Western Visayas were due to, among others, geographical location. The most notable geographical feature of Iloilo is its strategic location with a natural harbor. The channel of deep water so formed at the mouth of the Iloilo River facing a strait protected by Guimaras Island provides excellent anchorage, and shelters the area from the southeast typhoons.

Another significant geographical feature of Iloilo province which helped in the development of the town of Iloilo is that its rivers such as the Iloilo River, Salog River, Jalaur River, Tigum River and others, were also navigable and served well the needs of the area in terms of transportation and communication. Moreover, the neighboring towns such as Jaro and Molo possessed harbors that sustained very frequent commercial and social relations with neighboring provinces and islands. Molo, particularly, was well connected with the outside world through the Iloilo River, the latter serving as the life-vein of its trading activites

(from The News Today Online)

wecky

June 11th, 2005, 02:04 PM

Kabugana-an sang Western Visayas sa Intramuros
by: Jocelyn Camarista

The History Town that is Intramuros, Manila will explode with drumbeats, colors, drama, indigenous products and action on June 15-28, 2005 as the Best of Western Visayas Region unfolds to attract foreign, domestic and local visitors and buyers to Plaza San Ignacio and Clamshell I. There will be a total of 39 booths composed of destination highlights, craft demo, product selling and tour packages, among others. Cultural shows will be a daily attraction.

Kabugana-an sang Western Visayas , the 2-week event is designed to be a cornucopia of the best that the region has to offer from the soft opening at 5pm June 15 to the Grand Opening at 5pm June 18 with Boracay Nightlife later in the evening. It is also a showcase of cooperation between the Department of Tourism Region VI on the one hand and the local government units (LGUs) and the private sector on the other hand.

The Grand Opening on June 18 will feature Iloilo's Dinagyang, Bacolod's Masskara, Negros Occidental's Teatro Amorseco, Bago City's Babaylan and La Carlota City's Drumbeaters. Senate President Franklin Drilon, Senator Mar Roxas, Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago, Senator Richard Gordon, Tourism Secretary Joseph Ace Durano and the DOT undersecretaries and assistant secretaries have been invited to grace the affair as well as ambassadors and consuls to the Philippines.

Other features include the Negros/Bacolod City Day June 19 highlighted with the Legend of Sugarcane, El Cinco de Noviembre and Babaylan Festival of Bago City, MassKara: Welcome to the 2005 Southeast Asian Games and others.

Capiz Day will be June 24 with the Fly High Capiz , a collage of contemporary dance, music and theatrical movements integrated with oral traditions like binalaybay, lowa, and a fusion of indigenous art forms of Panay Bukidnon. It is a commemoration of local heroes who offered their lives in order to free their people from the bondage of colonial rule. Capiz is blessed with abundant natural resources particularly marine life and mineral deposits. Its illustrious sons and daughters have placed the province in esteemed prominence.

The power of two (2) will be once again displayed by Iloilo City and Guimaras as these local government units celebrate Iloilo-Guimaras Day on June 25 with the launching of “Experience Iloilo and Guimaras” project, turn-over by the Department of Tourism to the provincial officials of Guimaras of the Guimaras Area Specific Tourism Master Plan and performance of Sibunag, Guimaras Tribe.

June 26 is scheduled for Antique Day with its original Kinaray-a music (acoustic jamming), Malay Ati (Binirayan Tribe) and Aninipay (Stage Play) and a lot of indigenous songs, music and dances.

(from The News Today Onlne)

wecky

June 11th, 2005, 02:15 PM

Region 6 officials back GMA
THE SOUTHERN BEAT By Rolly Espina
The Philippine Star 06/11/2005

The administration is jittery. Even Speaker Jose de Venecia claims that her next 72 hours are uncertain. And, of course, the Armed Forces has been placed on red alert insofar as Metro Manila is concerned.

But over here in Western Visayas and the rest of the Visayan region, there are only assurances of support for the administration. Even those behind the Day of Mourning have gone out of their way to distance themselves from calling for the resignation of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo as Sen. Aquilino Pimentel challenged her last Thursday.

Local businessmen and the majority of the middle class think the country cannot afford another people power to oust a sitting president. Most local leaders and many members of the elite have their eyes trained on the Manila stock exchange and the plummeting stock prices because of the climate of uncertainty.

Negros Occidental Gov. Joseph Marañon, who supported Fernando Poe Jr. in the last elections, said he believes that 100 percent of Region 6 officials favor her continued stay in office despite Pimentel’s call for her and Vice President Noli de Castro’s resignation.

The same view was aired by Oriental Negros Gov. George Arnaiz, a member of the Nationalist People’s Coalition.

"We have only one country, the Philippines, and our economy will suffer more if any destabilization move is mounted," stressed Arnaiz.

Antique Gov. Sally Zaldivar Perez, chairman of the Regional Development Council, said the summit today of the League of Provincial Governors will once and for all emphasize that local government officials are against any attempt to erode the presidency.

Most of the local government units of Region 6, she added, oppose any move to launch any further adventurous enterprise. This, amid claims by some quarters, including the administration, that there are elements out to grab power.

In Iloilo City, PanayFed chairman Francia Trenas stressed that the private sector of Panay is against any attempt by any organized group to take over the reins of government.

"We cannot afford another such enterprise. We’ve had enough of these uprisings," he said.

Right now, Trenas added, the situation has been improving and the economy has been picking up. But there are forces out to torpedo the gains achieved by stirring unrest. "We can no longer allow such things to happen again. We need to rally behind the government against any other adventurist groups," he emphasized.

In Bacolod, Fr. Mao Buenafe, head of the Social Action Center of the diocese, stressed that the Day of Mourning aims only to make the top government officials aware of the plight of the common tao and the need to address the problems they face — the rising prices of oil and prime commodities and widespread corruption. But he added it is not aimed at forcing the President out of Malacañang.

Arnaiz, on the eve of the Manila Hotel summit, said he believes that there are various groups, including retired military officers and the New People’s Army, who seem to have united for a single purpose — to overthrow the government and then fight among themselves later if they become successful.

Besides, he added, while the First Family has been subjected to trial by publicity, they are presumed to be innocent until proven guilty. In short, they are pictured as guilty when, in fact, the allegations still have to be proven.

In Bacolod, there are actually two Independence Day events. The first one, slated tomorrow morning, is sponsored by the Bacolod City government with councilor Al Viktor Espino as chairman of the celebration. The second, which is expected to draw more people, is the Day of Mourning. It is sponsored not only by the Bacolod Diocese but also by the cities of Kabankalan and San Carlos.

The climate in the Negros capital is uneasy, but there is no tension. All eyes seem to be focused on the National Capital Region. Otherwise, it is normal.

(from Philippine Star Online)

wecky

June 11th, 2005, 02:21 PM

Friday, June 10, 2005
Iloilo City marks 107th Philippine Independence

A SIMULTANEOUS flag-raising activity will highlight the city's celebration of the country's 107th Independence Day on June 12.

"The celebration will kick off with a simultaneous flag raising activity to be participated by all government agencies in the country," said Mayor Jerry Treñas in an interview with members of the Iloilo City Hall Press Corps.

Early this month, Treñas ordered owners of downtown business establishments to display the Philippine flag in front of their respective edifices.

He said displaying our nation's symbol is a demonstration of our loyalty and patriotism to the country.

The June 12 activity will be marked with special presentations from different schools and offices here.

Treñas urged all city officials and employees, department heads of various government offices and representatives from the private sectors including media representatives to take part in the celebration.

Businessman Rogelio Florete will be the guest speaker during the Independence Day program. Trenas said Florete was tapped to enhance the current partnership of the government with the private sector that has so far produced favorable results.

In an executive order, the mayor created various committees that will ensure the success of the activity.

The committee is chaired by Trenas and co-chaired by Department of Science and Technology Regional Director Zinnia Teruel. The steering committee includes City Legal Officer Edgar Gil, City Administrator Melchor Tan, Department of Interior and Local Government City Director Martin Delgado and City Secretariat Diosdada Carado.

Working committee chairmen are Amante Espejo, Jr. (certificates of appreciation, documentation and publicity), Engineer Marito Amatorio (decoration and sound system), Lourdes Fernandez (reception), Heloise Javellana (program and invitation), Katherine Tingson (finance), Agustin Sangrador (physical arrangement), Councilor Marietta Orleans (special numbers and barangay participation), Police Senior Superintendent Norlito Bautista (peace and order), Thelma Golez (attendance).

(from Sunstar News Online)

wecky

June 12th, 2005, 09:48 AM

Actually school starts on Monday for us. Enrollment is a pain, actual schooling will be more painful. We have classes from Monday-Saturay from 7am to at least 6pm (1 hour break lng for lunch) except on Friday coz half day lng. amp nmn, I hate nursing already :(

that's right, Chymera ... very hectic schedule for a student nurse, indeed. You have to love Nursing inorder enjoy it. Take time ... you'll soon find it much better though ... just remember the just compensation you'll reap when you are earning more here abroad .. hehehe.

wecky

June 12th, 2005, 09:54 AM

Paseo Iloilo at Robinson's Place, De Leon St.

it's a lovely place to hang out for sure. last year, we used to dine in here ... cozy and open ... this I can say is one of Robinson's good ideas ... i like it though.

wecky

June 12th, 2005, 09:55 AM

wecky

June 12th, 2005, 10:01 AM

[SIZE=3]

http://www.imagestation.com/picture/sraid172/p55addaa049e55bfe5846c33ce7849118/f3c09096.jpg

Formerly known as St. Paul's College ... Its college of Nursing is one of the best in the country. Last year, it finished number 1 in its category with 100% passing rate, in the other category West Visayas State University also from Iloilo City got the number 1 spot.

yep .. St Paul College of Iloilo is now ST PAUL's UNIVERSITY-ILOILO ... one of the best institutions in the city and province. I was really impressed last year to see their new building ... truly, St Paul's have gone far in terms of their development.

In Nursing board, St Paul's and West Visayas State University are two powerhouses in Iloilo .. they usually get 100% passing rate ... it's good to note that we have these schools maintaining good and quality standards when in comes to Nursing Education.

wecky

June 12th, 2005, 10:17 AM

Did some research:

Western Visayas:
(Land Area/Population
Iloilo - 4,720 / 1,925,002
Negros Occidental - 7,926 / 2,565,723
Aklan - 1,818 / 451,314
Capiz - 2,633 / 654,156
Antique - 2,522 / 471,088
Guimaras - 604 / 141,450
Total - 20,223 / 6,208,733

Palawan - 14,896! / 755,412
New Total - 35,119 / 6,964,145

CALABARZON - 16,230 / 9,320,629
MIMAROPA - 27,456 / 2,299,229
Southern Luzon (with Palawan) - 43,686 / 11,619,858

Southern Luzon (without Palawan) - 28,790 / 10,864,446

All in sq. km. / pop = may 2000 census

Western Visayas is now the largest in terms of Land Area (35,119 sq. km.) but Southern Luzon is still largest in terms of Population (10,864,446), of course next to MM. It was a nice move to move Palawan, More Palawenos will be coming to Iloilo City to go to Regional Offices and to hopefully do more business. I hope turns out all for the better like cheaper fares to and from Palawan ^^

thanks for this research .. such a good update.

As I said before, transportation problem between Iloilo and Palawan is one of the main concerns .. hopefully some businessmen will take notice of it and help pave the path for realisation of better ferry transport and/or increase air flights between this two provinces. Surely, Iloilo's traffic will be double soon. We are already experiencing a big traffic problem in the city amidst the implementation of Perimeter Boundary Ordinace by the city government. The road capacity of Iloilo cannot hold the volume of plying jeepneys and private cars in and out of the city proper. They have to build more roads to ease the worsening traffic's condition as soon as possible (no flyovers please, if possible ... sorry, i just don't like flyovers .. it's just ruining the beauty of the place).

It has been noted that at a normal working day time, Iloilo City's 400,000 population doubles .. how much more with Palawan's addition .. it will reach a million or more people roaming around in a relatively very small (in land area) city. Traffic volumes will follow soon ... before, from Iloilo City Proper (Amigo) going to CPU took 20-30 minutes ride, now my aunt says, during rush hours, it almost takes them an hour or more from Delgado going to CPU.

wecky

June 12th, 2005, 10:20 AM

wecky

June 12th, 2005, 10:25 AM

7 groups to vie in Badiangan's Pandayan Festival 2005

Seven contesting groups will vie for this year's Pandayan Festival of the Municipality of Badiangan on June 18, 2005.

The group, which is named after the names of Bingauan binangon or bolo, is composed of clustered barangays and schools such as Grupo Binakuko (Tamocol, Agusipan, Cabangan, Cabanga-an, Bingauan, Guinawahan); Grupo Pinandak (Tina, Sariri, San Julian, Latawan, Ilongbukid); Grupo Sinuwak (Bitaoyan, Malublob, Sinuagan, Astorga); Grupo Surot (Iniligan, Catubig, Teneclan, Budiawe); Grupo Balintawak (Poblacion, Talaba, Linayuan, Cabyogan); Grupo Ginunting (Botong, Mapili Grande, Mapili Sanjo, Calansanan); and Grupo Linamay (Manaolan, Odiongan, Mainguit, Indorohan, Sianon).

The concept of all performances is based on the agreed Pandayan concept, which highlights the “pandayan” process and the functions and uses of the various types of pandayan products. Other products of Badiangan may also be incorporated as part of the presentation.

The costumes should be creative and must be made of any indigenous material found in the municipality but a peasant costume, which reflects the everyday wear of Badianganon is the recommended costume. Hablon material, patadyong, wood, sukdap, ramay, ginit may be included as costume materials.

For headdresses, “pulos” for men and “bandana” for women are required and the use of “buri” hat for men is also suggested.

Any type of “binangon” or any other products of the “pamadayan” in Bingauan, being the centerpiece of the presentation must be integrated as part of the costume and choreography.

Live music must be used and it should be metal, steel or iron-based. Cymbals, xylophones, lyre, gongs and other existing metal or steel are not allowed. Metal scarps, steel bars, iron rods and tin plates must be used. Wood and bamboo may be used but the dominant sound should be of metal, iron, tin or steel. However, the use of sound system or amplifier is now allowed.

Five special awards are at stake such as Best in Performance, Best in Discipline, Best in Music, Best in Costume and Best in Choreography.

Already on its second year, Pandayan Festival 2005 is a showcase of Badianganon's ingenuity, craftsmanship and was of life through dance and merrymaking.

It is a secular and occupational festival that features the bingon-making in Brgy. Bingauan, Badiangan, Iloilo.

The promotion of Pandayan Festival is also anchored in the celebration of the 38 th Foundation Day of the Municipality of Badiangan on June 17 th .

This 5 th class municipality located 40 kilometers north of Iloilo City became an independent municipality from progressive town of Janiuay by virtue of RA 5006 authored by the late Congressman Gloria M. Tabiana.

As part of the celebration is the launching of Badiangan Instant Tahu and Bingauan binangon as the unique, indigenous products that would put Badiangan in the world map for business and tourism.

An Agro-Industrial Fair will open on June 17 that will feature Badiangan's famous native delicacies like aripahol, atsara, puto and tinuom nga manok of Brgy. Astorga and cutflower and cottage industries. The town will celebrate its 37 th religious and municipal fiesta in honor of saint patron, St. John the Baptist. (Ian Espada/Capitol News)

(from The News Today Online)

wecky

June 12th, 2005, 10:27 AM

DoTC reviews Iloilo, Silay airport projects

By LYNDA VALENCIA

The Department of Transportation and Communications (DoTC) has ordered the reengineering and deletion of fuel farms provisions in the proposed Iloilo and Silay airports to save the government at least R700 million.

Project cost of Iloilo airport is R6.2 billion while the Silay Airport (Negros Occidental) is R4.2 billion.

Transportation and Communications Secretary Leandro Mendoza said the DoTC was forced to review not only the cost of the project but also the designs and specifications due to lack of funds.

"The DoTC is reviewing its various projects in order to optimize the use of its resources and in line with President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo’s initiative to balance the national budget," Mendoza said.

The fuel farms in the Iloilo airport project cost about R370 million while that of Silay is R330 million, Mendoza said.

On the other hand, Assistant Secretary Robert Castanares said the fuel farms may not be necessary because local airlines use new generation planes which could carry enough fuel to and from said destinations.

"There is no point spending money for a facility with only about 30 percent of its capacity to be utilized,’’ Castanares said.

He said fuel companies like Petron have also submitted offers to DoTC to build depots in the said airports at no cost to the government.

"We have to understand that the fund used for both airports is not a grant but a loan by the Philippine government from the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC),’’ Castanares pointed out.

He emphasized that the R700 million the DoTC stands to save from the deferment of the fuel farms could build several kilometers of farm-to-market roads in depressed areas in Mindanao.

However, sources said that JBIC would have to concur with the DOTC’s plan to defer the construction of fuel farms since its concurrence is required under the loan agreement.

The Iloilo airport facilities will include a modern terminal, control tower building, instrumental landing and navigation systems.

The R6.2 billion Iloilo airport project, said to be the biggest infrastructure project in Western Visayas, was signed by Mendoza and Osamu Murata, chief representative of the JBIC.

The existing Iloilo airport is the fourth busiest in the country in terms of passenger traffic but is facing problems of obsolete facilities, operation limitations and limited expandability due to the existence of roads, and rivers, and growing urbanization around the airport.

Meanwhile, the new Silay airport project involves the acquisition of 180 hectares of land; the construction of airside facilities such as runways and taxiways; building of landside facilities such as passenger and cargo terminal buildings, car parks, access roads, control tower, crane fire rescue and administration building; the provision and installation of modern air navigational equipment and facilities. (PNA)

(from Manila Bulletin Online)

wecky

June 12th, 2005, 10:32 AM

PRO-6 sees peaceful transfer
of Palawan to Western Visayas

By MONTESA J. GRIÑO

ILOILO City – The Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) does not expect any problem in Palawan’s transfer to Western Visayas.

There will be no shortage of policemen in the region because Palawan has enough cops, stressed Chief Supt.Doroteo Reyes II, director of the PRO-6.

President Macapagal-Arroyo signed an Executive Order transferring Palawan and Puerto Princesa City from the Southern Tagalog Region (Region IV) to Region 6.

She said it would “accelerate the effective administration of field and public services."
The Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) is finalizing the transfer, said Ricardo Austria, DILG provincial director.

The only problem he sees is the transportation. Most of the national government’s regional offices are in Iloilo City. Those from Palawan transacting with these offices would either have to ride a boat or plane to Iloilo.

A press statement from the DILG in Manila said Local Government Secretary Angelo Reyes ordered Undersecretary for Local Government Eduardo Soliman Jr. to coordinate with local chief executives and other officials concerned.

Reyes said the transfer would also " accelerate social and economic development in the regional and local levels."

Gov. Joel Reyes of Palawan welcomed the transfer of his province to Region 6. But he said he prefers making Palawan a separate and distinct region from Region IV and Region VI.

Region VI is now composed of the provinces of Iloilo, Antique, Aklan, Capiz, Negros Occidental, Guimaras and Palawan, and their capital and component cities.

(from Panay News Online)

wecky

June 12th, 2005, 03:12 PM

http://www.iloilo.net/dot/ilolog.gif

HAPPY INDEPENDENCE DAY TO ALL !

wecky

June 12th, 2005, 03:33 PM

http://www.whatson-expat.com.ph/articles/2004/june13/images/Travel.jpg

Modernity + History = ILOILO
By Coke Manlapaz

I set off for Iloilo one relatively clear day.

After only 48 minutes of throbbing ears, the pilot announced that we were about to land at Iloilo. I was really relieved - but not until I looked out the window and noticed that the land was nearly at a 90-degree angle!

Upon touchdown, while really dazed from the experience, my eyes lit up when I saw a prominent structure from my window seat - SM City Iloilo! With renewed vigor, I lifted myself from my seat, thrilled by the promise of a visit to the biggest mall in the Visayas - "home away from home!"

Actually, from the moment I alighted from the plane, that was exactly how I felt - I was home. The Iloilo City Convention Bureau and the Department of Tourism Region VI contingent were at the airport to welcome us with their wide smiles and really nice shell leis. The Ilonggos (what the people from Iloilo are called) are known as the most "malambing" (affectionate) people in the country. Their vocal tone is always sweet, gracious and polite. As I would discover on this trip, they are also one of the most non-imposing and considerate of Filipinos.

Iloilo is a successful mix of modernity and history. The most lavish of hotels, with complete and impressive convention facilities abound in the city, while just a few blocks away are rows of millionaires' mansions which reflect the lavish and gracious lifestyle of the Ilonggos - each teeming with a history so rich and interesting. Let us take a peek into such diversity...

My Little Nook

The entire group of media people was billeted at the Hotel del Rio at the heart of the city. As I was escorted into my mini "suite" by very "willing to please" Mang Demet (the head bellboy of the hotel), I immediately drew the curtains and discovered a serene river view.

My inquisitive self brought me to examine the other parts of the hotel before the group was rounded up for lunch. The Hotel del Rio has several big and small function rooms, depending on how big your meeting or convention will be. The pool side is a great setting for outdoor parties, while their Sunset Terrace has a live band performing nightly. They also have an Executive Room, which is the ideal location for conferences. Within the hotel are different restaurants - each one with a different theme - Café del Prado, where a daily buffet breakfast is laid out; Plazoleta Gay, for those business lunches or dinner dates; Igma-an which serves char-grilled native food; and Ohana for those who fancy Japanese food.

Lunch by the Ocean

The media group then went to the first of its many destinations. To let the group sample a few of the delicacies which abound in Iloilo, we were escorted to Breakthrough, a restaurant which serves bountiful seafood in all shapes and sizes, served al fresco.

Located on a wide expanse of a beach right beside the Guimaras Strait, we all got a taste of seafood fished out of the very body of water we were looking at. I never thought so many kinds of shellfish could exist. Of course, the fresh crabs tasted so sweet, excellently paired with Aligue (crab fat) Rice.

Breakthrough owner Raymond Robles really made sure we enjoyed every bite from the chopped lechon, oysters, scallops and their native dessert "pulot" (molasses with honey).

Miracles Can Come True

After the fabulous lunch, we headed off to the Sto. Niño de Arevalo Church, where the 3rd oldest Sto. Niño (child Jesus) in the Philippines is enshrined. It was believed that anybody could pray for anything, and the wish would be granted.

Next, we went to Molo Church, which was built in 1831. Famous for its altar which was carved from the single trunk of a tree (I wonder how huge that tree must have been?), at the back is a painting by a 12 year old boy in the 1800's who never took any kind of art lesson. His work was reportedly admired by our national hero Dr. Jose Rizal himself.

Shopping Galore!

We went next to the Iloilo Producers' Association shop to fulfill the task of buying pasalubong (take-home treats). I could have actually bought it from the supermarket in Manila, but the ones from Iloilo are not too sweet, yet moist and chewy. Other goodies would be the pinasugba (sweet crisp banana slices), danggit (cripy dried fish), pinipig (pounded crispy rice) cookies, and barquillos, which came in a variety of flavors and colors. Great. Now I got no more money for that SM City Iloilo shopping trip.

Travel Back Through Time

This was the start of our journey through Iloilo's rich historical past. Our voyage started with a trip to the Museo Iloilo, a repository of Iloilo's cultural heritage. Among the items displayed here are artifacts from the stone and metal age, plus various religious statues and items which reflect the island's religious nature.

Iloilo's Grand Ancestral Houses

The Lopez' Ancestral House, more popularly known as "The Boathouse," is named so, because of the similarity of its architecture to that of a boat's - portholes and banisters and all. This house has a very interesting past - in the 1930s it was almost burned by the Japanese troops who came and conquered Iloilo. Thanks to one person (it wasn't clear who exactly it was) who pleaded with the Japanese for the house to be spared, the house was saved from a fiery end - provided that owners allowed that it be used as the "presidential house" of the Japanese in Iloilo.

Next was the Casa Mariquit, a 200-year old house in Jaro, Iloilo City. Owned by the Javellana-Lopez clan, this house was once used as a storage area for money. It was some sort of a "bank" where the loot was hidden in vaults beneath the floors. Until now, the vault still exists, although the trap door is now hidden under a rug.

If I may comment on which of the places we visited I think truly reflects the gracious living and opulence of the Ilonggos, I would definitely say that it is the Nelly Gardens. Built in 1928, the house strikes the viewer as something lifted off the movie "Gone with the Wind," with its sprawling 2-hectare grounds, and very long garden/driveway. Within the estate is a lagoon for boat rides, a tennis court, a mini golf course and a swimming pool. During the American-Japanese battle in the country, the house was used by the Americans during their stay in Iloilo.

Gastronomic Delight!!!

A trip to Iloilo will never be complete without ever passing by for its most famous delicacy - the La Paz Batchoy - a clear soup of noodles and pork innards, topped with crushed pork crackers and spicy herbs.
However, I learned that I could actually order batchoy minus the uric-acid laden pork innards which people with kidney stones such as myself avoid. So when I first took a sip of the clear broth at the famous Ted's Old Timer, wow... I must admit the taste was quite different from the oily kind being sold in Manila restaurants. Bob Zozobrado said it was really delicious. My mom would have loved it too.

Home Base

With really full stomachs, we went back to Hotel del Rio. I immediately plunked onto my soft bed with the aircon in full blast. I felt really weird, as though something heavy was on my back. I already said it. Sometimes this third eye has its bad repercussions. By this time, it had succeeded in giving me a headache - with matching fever.

Business & Leisure Place

Dinner with the very important people of Iloilo was next on our schedule. Host hotel was the Amigo Terrace Hotel - the only hotel in Iloilo which boasts of a shopping mall at the first and second levels, where you can find everything you need under one roof. It also has a grand ballroom that can accommodate up to a thousand guests for weddings, birthdays, company meetings, conventions and other corporate affairs.

After a short program, we met with the town officials, Department of Tourism Region VI officials, members of the Iloilo City Convention Bureau and some local media people. Mayor Jerry Treñas and wife Rosalie gave the national media group a sample of their warm hospitality.

Day Two

I woke up unusually early, devoid of any "excess baggage" that may have clung on to me courtesy of my eye for the supernatural. This was a new day, and the best way to start it was with a Sunday mass at a nearby church, then breakfast at the hotel's buffet table. I had a Filipino breakfast, an American breakfast, and brunch altogether in one meal. Everything was so good, I literally ate for three people.

Today, we were going on a long trip to UNESCO World Heritage-listed Miag-ao Church, a canvass of Filipino artistry. Built in 1787 by Fray Francisco Gonzales and then Gobernadorcillo Domeng Libo-on, this beautiful church with its intricately-carved facade originally served as a fortress against Muslim Raiders.

Magnificent about this structure is its altar, made of 4.9 million pesos worth of gold leaf. One member of our media group commented that it was the most beautiful church she has seen - ever. I personally would say that it was well worth the hour-long ride just to be able to see such a structure.

Sinamay Haven

A few minutes away from the church was a small structure, devoid of any evidence of the beauty being woven (literally) within its nipa walls. This was Indag-An MPC, the small nipa hut transformed into a sinamay-weaving factory, where some of our famous couturiers buy their materials. Interested media people quickly made a dash for the nice shawls which were being sold for 200 pesos and even lower. Panic-buying was the order of the day.

Further inquiry revealed that some of the teen-aged girls living within the area have actually been working there as weavers, by their own stone-clad choice, so that they can earn their lunch money for the upcoming school year. It was obvious they were enjoying themselves - more at the prospect of taking home a respectable amount for their piggy banks.

Food Again?

Despite the fact that we were munching on a very creamy, tender and piping-hot buco (young coconut) pie on our way back, an inviting buffet table greeted us at the La Fiesta Hotel. La Fiesta was constructed with the "fiesta" atmosphere in mind - from its furnitures and fixtures, to the food, uniforms and themes of the rooms. A big multi-purpose hall which can be subdivided into three smaller rooms proves an effective venue for weddings and conferences for up to 800 people. They also have a Carosa Function Room which is generally used for board meetings of a maximum of 20 people. The food, too was especially delicious.

Nature Trip

We were enroute after lunch to our entire trip's last destination. This time, we will rub shoulders with nature - no churches or museums here - just nature at its finest.

Casa Fiametta is a 40 kilometer drive from Iloilo City at Tabucan, Barotac Nuevo. A variety of outdoor sports can be enjoyed in this nature-friendly destination - horseback riding, where one can also take formal English Equitation lessons on their thoroughbred ponies and horses; kayaking down the Talaud River while birdwatching; playing football or just plain swimming. I particularly enjoyed the carabao-pulled carroza ride we took when entering the premises. I pitied the carabao - I wondered how he was capable of pulling a carroza-full of ample-weighing creatures like myself.

Closing?

The cap to our trip was dinner at yet another grand hotel - the Sarabia Manor Hotel and Convention Center. Described as the favorite hotel destination of business travelers, dignitaries, diplomats and tourists, its 184 rooms and suites are equipped with all the five-star amenities. It also takes pride in its banquet and meeting facilities, where many an extravagant reception and conferences for up to 1,500 people can be accommodated.

Among the various individual restaurants in the hotel are: Café Salvatore, Freddy's Bar and Restaurant, Tinagong Dagat Poolside Lounge, Suehiro, and Club Bwana.

Hotel facilities include an Olympic sized swimming pool, full service Business Center, Airline and Reservations Travel Agency, Salon, Car Rental, Gift Shop, Clark Hatch Fitness Gym, laundry service and ample parking space.

Goodbye, Iloilo

After tiring our lips with countless smiling sessions with the photographers at Sarabia, we were each given a sweet token of appreciation which was traditionally Iloilo-made. Mine was a sinamay bag, which I quickly used on the first day after I went back to work in Manila.

It was really sad to leave after only a two-day stay, for there were still much to be seen - and tasted. But as I thought about the experiences shared with the Ilonggos and the other members of the media group, I thought, "Hey my experience in Iloilo will not have to end here. I could always go back - to the memorable experiences, the beautiful places, warm people, and most especially, the formed friendships."

How To Get There

Cebu Pacific and other leading airlines have daily flights from Manila to Iloilo City. It also has two daily flights from Cebu City and Davao.Via boat, a Negros Navigation or WG & A trip to the port in Iloilo will take 21 hours from the port of Manila. To get around the city, various jeeps can be hailed to get to any point. To get to destinations outside of the city, various vans can be rented. Just ask your hotel to help you in getting one.

Acknowledgments
What's On & Expat thanks Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas; The Iloilo City Convention Bureau - Narz Lim, Terry Sarabia, Jessie Ledesma, Manny Gruenberg, Jose Demaisip, Benedict Uytongco, Mals Locsin, Robert Ferrer, Emil Diez, Sandra Gomez and Edgar Sia; DOT Region VI headed by Edwin Trompeta, Bernardine Palacios, Ken Junsay; friends Rex Drilon, Panchito Puckett, Tom Griffin, Elmer Barrido, Demetrio Jawile Jr., Rex Velarde, Nonel Gemora, Raymond Robles; Bob Zozobrado and Elmer of Ideaz Plus; and Cebu Pacific for altogether making our Iloilo experience memorable.

Testimony to the grandeur and opulence of Iloilo living is the Nelly Gardens - a witness to the meaningful history of the city.

(taken while googling ... pure honour to the author of the article. here's the link : http://images.google.co.uk/imgres?imgurl=http://www.whatson-expat.com.ph/articles/2004/june13/images/Travel.jpg&imgrefurl=http://www.whatson-expat.com.ph/articles/2004/june13/travel.htm&h=216&w=288&sz=42&tbnid=cP9nsEtHKgAJ:&tbnh=82&tbnw=110&hl=en&start=184&prev=/images%3Fq%3Diloilo%26start%3D180%26hl%3Den%26lr%3D%26ie%3DUTF-8%26sa%3DN)

wecky

June 12th, 2005, 04:36 PM

DPWH completes the P21.2 million access road in Iloilo

MANILA, May 26 (PNA) - The Department of Public works and Highways (DPWH) Region 6 had completed part of Phase 2 of the Jalandoni Bridge in Iloilo City costing P21.2 million.

Rolando Asis, Region VI OIC-Director, said the accelerated works done was based on the directive of DPWH Secretary Hermogenes Ebdane Jr. to take advantage of the dry season.

Asis said the bridge project aims to minimize traffic congestion along main streets of Iloilo City proper.

It will also pave the way to socio-economic development as it provides and transport accessibility within the locality, he said.

The completed projects are the construction of 890 meters of Access road leading to Hechanova street and improvement of Hechanova street including right-of-way acquisition.

Asis explained that the project was an integral part of the Iloilo Rehabilitation Project implemented by the DPWH Region VI Office through the efforts of Senator Franklin Drilon.

The project also involves the construction of a boulevard with promenade to connect westward towards Benigno Aquino diversion road and eastward to Bonifacio Drive and the construction of a flyover along Gen. Luna street.

Phases II involves the construction of the approaches of the Jalandoni bridge which was completed last March 3, 2005 and an 890 meter of access road leading to Hechanova street.

The project is located central portion of the Iloilo River, which is bounded by the city proper and La Paz district. It will be part of the city's road network by connecting Jalandoni and Gen. Luna intersection.

Contractor is IBC International Builders Corp.

The complete project of the Jalandoni Bridge and its related components will cost P272 million and scope of work is as follows:

Phase I - Construction of Jalandoni Bridge which included the construction of 170 lineal meters of pre-stressed concrete girder bridge on bored pile foundation consisting two spans of 25 meters and four spans of 30 meters. It costs P55 million.

Phase I was completed last March 3, 2005 and constructed by New San Jose Builders.

Phase II - Construction of Jalandoni Bridge approaches including right-of-way and construction of 1,000-meter boulevard leading to Gaisano City Hall including right-of-way. It will cost P95 million.

Phase III - Construction of 200 meters access road leading to diversion road including right-of-way and construction of 800-meter boulevard leading to diversion and with right-of-way. It will cost P60 million.

Phase IV - Construction of Dungon Bridge that will connect the proposed road to diversion road with a total cost of P32 million.

Phase V - Construction of 55 lineal meter fly over along Gen. Luna St. costing P30 million. (By Lynda B. Valencia/PNA)

(from www.gov.com.ph - here's the link: http://www.gov.ph/cat_transportation/newscontent.asp?newsid=9694)

valium

June 13th, 2005, 03:26 AM

chymera00

June 13th, 2005, 05:29 AM

Upon touchdown, while really dazed from the experience, my eyes lit up when I saw a prominent structure from my window seat - SM City Iloilo! With renewed vigor, I lifted myself from my seat, thrilled by the promise of a visit to the biggest mall in the Visayas - "home away from home!"

sm city iloilo as the biggest mall in the visayas???? whatever happened to ayala center cebu and sm city cebu? probably hindi pa naitatayo yung mga malls na yun when that article was written, imean ive been to malls in iloilo and cebu and davao, and so far, the biggest mall ive been to in vismin are the malls in cebu

You are right SM Iloilo isn't the biggest mall in the Visayas ... Sm City Cebu and Ayala Center Cebu are bit bigger (in gross floor area). I think the author, who is an expat, of the article just got it wrong. SM City Cebu was constructed much earlier than Sm City Iloilo ...

wecky

June 13th, 2005, 11:55 PM

sm city iloilo as the biggest mall in the visayas???? whatever happened to ayala center cebu and sm city cebu? probably hindi pa naitatayo yung mga malls na yun when that article was written, imean ive been to malls in iloilo and cebu and davao, and so far, the biggest mall ive been to in vismin are the malls in cebu

I don't think SM City Iloilo is the biggest mall in the visayas region as well. You are right, Valium to say that Ayala and SM City in Cebu are much bigger in area than SM City Iloilo. I've seen and been to these two biggest malls in Cebu and no doubt about your claim. Probably the writer mislook it too to her overwhelming intuitions when she visited Iloilo. Can't blame her though ... maybe it's what she felt during that time. But I like the way she write ... she's so fascinated she really described the places she visited with awe, enthusiasm and excitement. I surely felt the same with her when I visited other European countries ... it's just simply "wow" ... anyway, thanks to Coke Manlapaz. Hope you'll enjoy more the next time around you visit Iloilo and Iloilo City. Cheers!

wecky

June 14th, 2005, 12:02 AM

You are right SM Iloilo isn't the biggest mall in the Visayas ... Sm City Cebu and Ayala Center Cebu are bit bigger (in gross floor area). I think the author, who is an expat, of the article just got it wrong. SM City Cebu was constructed much earlier than Sm City Iloilo ...

chymera, you know what caught me in her article is when she says .. "upon touchdown, she feels at home (away from home) ... she must be deliriously satisfied .. hehehe .. probably some exaggeration to it .. but hey, I can sympathize to her ... the last time I went home (last year) ... it's just simply awesome ... I thought i'd already forgot the place after 4 and half long years ... but, it's like a deja vu .. like I've been living there continuously ... I was really happy and contented living in Iloilo. But things have changed a bit, too ... Iloilo will forever be in my heart but London is my home now.

wecky

June 14th, 2005, 12:07 AM

Florete: Hope and love of country
remains amid crisis

DR. ROGELIO Florete, D.B.M. (hc), provided a positive spin to Sunday morning’s celebration of Independence Day.

As guest speaker of the city government’s Independence Day rites at Plaza Libertad, the head of the Bombo Radyo media empire delivered a message of hope and love of country amid the crisis facing this country today.

Florete spoke about love of country and love of fellowmen, of hope and heroism as essential elements to national survival.

In a well-applauded speech, Florete extolled local heroine Teresa Magbanua of Sara, Iloilo who dedicated her whole life to the cause of freedom and independence.

He praised Magbanua’s struggles and suffering, her courage and the total commitment of our other heroes as examples worthy of emulation.

“Today we reap the blessings of freedom that our forebears in Panay and in the rest of the country bitterly fought and died for,” Florete said. “There are no more colonizers. We face new battles – for nation building, for the progress of our communities, for the advancement of our families. These are no less tough battles for which we draw inspiration from our Iloilo heroes.”

Today we face greater challenges, Florete stressed.

“People are losing jobs, schools are deteriorating, incomes are shrinking. Our mountains and seas are being ruined by illegal acts, our health is deteriorating from pollution and neglect, our future looks dim. At times we wonder why our national officials endlessly quarrel when the call of the day is unity to surmount difficulty.”

The answer to this dilemma, Florete said, is hope. And heroism.
Quoting a famous cardiologist, Florete said, “hope can cure everything.”

“Truly there is no medicine like hope, no incentive so great, no tonic as powerful as the expectation of something better tomorrow,” Florete stressed.

And hope, he said, can be drawn from the numerous acts of heroism that can be found everywhere in this weary world.
Florete cited the example set by an Ilonggo cabbie in New York, Nestor Sulpico who returned to its owner a bag containing thousands of dollars worth of precious stones and even turned down a tidy reward offered by a grateful, if forgetful, owner.

“Nestor’s inadvertent lesson to us is that we can draw hope and inspiration from each other. So long as there are parents who strive to make ends meet just to rear their children, so long as there are students who burn the midnight oil to do well in school, there is hope for us,” Florete said.

“Hope comes as well from friends who look our for neighbors, from families who care for their elderly, or from citizens who stick to the straight and narrow path of honest work for self and community. It springs from volunteers who work selflessly to build homes for or educate the poor, who patrol our streets, or who donate blood or time or money to care for sick strangers. Hope is in the silent work of each of us, brought together as a nation, unheralded like Teresa or Nestor, but nonetheless honorable,” he ended.

(from Panay News Online)

--------------

Dr Florete is the owner of Bombo Radyo Philippines, Queen City Development Bank, R Florete pawnshop and jewellery, F and C Pawnshop and Jewelry, etc ... a true Ilonggo himself.

wecky

June 14th, 2005, 12:10 AM

More groups join Social Work Week

ILOILO City -- The celebration of the First Social Week in Iloilo on June 13-19, 2005 has been boosted by the support of social work partners in the government and non-government organizations (NGOs).

The Volunteer Organizations, Information, Communication Exchange (VOICE)- Iloilo Cluster and YMCA-Iloilo are holding a Medical and Dental Mission at the Old Capitol Lobby today and tomorrow.

They will be joined by the Iloilo Doctors College of Medicine Foundation, Inc.-Partnership for Health Program, the Philippine Army, SERVIERS Phils, Y Volunteer Group, Department of Social Welfare and Development and Central Philippine University (CPU).

The free medical and dental services will start after the opening program and Interfaith Thanksgiving Service at the Rotary Amphitheater.

Prior to the Thanksgiving Service, there will be a motorcade and foot parade.

This year’s celebration of the Social Work Week commenced with a Press Conference and Opening of Photo Exhibits at SM City yesterday.

The highlight of the celebration will be held at CPU on June 18. with Social Welfare Secretary Corazon “Dinky” Soliman as guest speaker.

A Regional Social Work Camp and General Reunion of alumni of all schools of social work in Western Visayas will also be held at CPU.

Other activities are as follows: Forum on Best Practices of Social Work, June 15; Seminar on Social Workers as Managers, June 16-17; and Trainors Training on Mobilizing Community resources and Fund Raising Seminar, June 16-17.

This year’s celebration is a historical landmark in Social Work as the celebration commemorates the Ruby Anniversary of Republic Act 4373 (Social Work Law).

(from Panay News Online)

chymera00

June 14th, 2005, 02:55 PM

chymera, you know what caught me in her article is when she says .. "upon touchdown, she feels at home (away from home) ... she must be deliriously satisfied .. hehehe .. probably some exaggeration to it .. but hey, I can sympathize to her ... the last time I went home (last year) ... it's just simply awesome ... I thought i'd already forgot the place after 4 and half long years ... but, it's like a deja vu .. like I've been living there continuously ... I was really happy and contented living in Iloilo. But things have changed a bit, too ... Iloilo will forever be in my heart but London is my home now.
I hope all Ilonggos all over the world share the same closeness to Iloilo as you, its nice to hear that Ilonggos always stay Ilonggos at heart even though they have migrated to distant places ... You're doing a fine job keeping this thread running :) I can't be online as much as I want to now ...

chymera00

June 14th, 2005, 03:11 PM

DOT identifies Iloilo as anchor destination of Island Paradise Adventure Race

ILOILO CITY, April 19 (PNA) - Iloilo City has been identified by the Department of Tourism (DOT) as one of the anchor destinations of the island Paradise Adventure Race slated on the third quarter of 2005.

Secretary Ace Durano explained that the adventure race is one programs of the DOT that promotes traveling to the country using the nautical highway, which he described as "the best way to experience the diversity offered by the Philippines."

"This is our one way of contributing in promoting Iloilo City," Durano said. "Iloilo City will always be a part and parcel of any program the Department of Tourism will have."

The DOT chief also announced that his office has allocated P1.5 million to rehabilitate the Iloilo fountain. A historic one, this fountain was named after the grandfather of First Gentleman Jose Miguel "Mike" Arroyo, the former Senator Jose Maria Arroyo. This is used to gauge how far the distance of one place is from Iloilo City.

Durano, who was the keynote speaker of the Tourism Summit organized by the Iloilo City Conventions Bureau (ICCB) and the Dinagyang Foundation last week, also took the opportunity to explain his non-appearance in various festivals here.

He expressed his apology to Mayor Jerry Trenas who manifested his disappointment with that happened and laid down the program of his office where Iloilo is included.

He assured Trenas that DOT will never neglect Iloilo City, especially now that an Ilonggo has been appointed to assist him at the DOT.

Businessman Salvador Sarabia Recently was recently appointed as undersecretary of the DOT in charge of national security and political alliances. (PNA)

chymera00

June 14th, 2005, 03:12 PM

President Arroyo eyes Iloilo as meat supplier to Manila
ILOILO CITY, April 16 (PNA) - President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has approved the immediate release of P10 million to help fast track the completion of the city's slaughterhouse and other needed facilities so that meat products here can be exported to Manila.

The President, together with her Cabinet secretaries, on Friday conducted price inspection of basic goods at the Iloilo Central Market and found out that prices of meat are cheaper compared with that in Manila.

She said the export of these products to Manila could help reduce the prices of meat there.

Department of Agriculture (DA) Secretary Arthur Yap estimated a big difference of prices in Manila and Iloilo City. He said once this plan is realized, Manila residents would benefit from the more or less P15-20 difference in pricing.

Yap explained that the prices of hog products in Manila ranged from P145-150. However, if these products would come from Iloilo, he made an estimate that the cost would only range from P130-135.

To ensure that the products would still be fresh upon reaching Manila, Yap recommended the utilization of a refrigerated cool chain.

Meanwhile, the President directed the DA chief to adopt the back cargo option as a solution to the high prices of eggs and vegetables in the province.

“Iloilo will ship out slaughtered meat to Luzon and Luzon will ship eggs and vegetables (back to Iloilo) on the same transport system,” President Arroyo said. (PNA)

chymera00

June 14th, 2005, 03:18 PM

http://panaynews.com.ph/images/panay_pics.jpg

chymera00

June 14th, 2005, 03:27 PM

Here's a pic of the Fiesta in the City held in June ... The Miagao Booth won
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ilo/2005/06/03/article_133464_06-03-2005.jpg

New Department of Education Building near Iloilo NHS
http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ilo/2005/06/05/article_133643_06-04-2005.jpg

http://panaynews.com.ph/images/panay_pics.jpg

wecky

June 14th, 2005, 11:33 PM

I hope all Ilonggos all over the world share the same closeness to Iloilo as you, its nice to hear that Ilonggos always stay Ilonggos at heart even though they have migrated to distant places ... You're doing a fine job keeping this thread running :) I can't be online as much as I want to now ...

I'll try to update the thread as much as I can ... i'll be off to Berlin, Germany for 4 days with my friends .. so you won't see me posting a lot in the next few days. Chymera, just try to post only as much as you can ... I sympathize with you .. taking up BS Nursing is quite time-consuming and rigorous ... let your education be first on the list. I'll see you by August then. Cheers!

wecky

June 14th, 2005, 11:40 PM

wecky

June 15th, 2005, 12:05 AM

wecky

June 15th, 2005, 12:06 AM

http://panaynews.com.ph/images/panay_pics.jpg

another great banner ... really nice! Thanks, Chymera.

wecky

June 15th, 2005, 12:08 AM

wecky

June 15th, 2005, 07:57 AM

Capitol hastens P100-M loan for heavy equipment
By Florence F. Hibionada

The Iloilo Provincial Government is fast tracking its application for a P100 million from the LandBank of the Philippines for the purchase of heavy equipment.

Capitol executives said that the purchase of new dump trucks and other heavy equipment is long due, and that the government's present fleet of equipment has become too expensive to operate and maintain.

“That's not to mention the 'downtime' or periods of inactivity due to repair work,” a top Governor's aide pointed out in pushing for the purchase with the loan approval now in the works before the Sanggunian Panlalawigan.

The proposal stemmed from the June 2, 2005 letter of Provincial Engineer Gracianito Lucero. The very next day Governor Niel Tupas issued Executive Order No. 186

creating an inter-office Committee on the Purchase of Various Heavy Equipment chaired by Provincial Administrator Manuel Mejorada.

Mejorada recommended the gradual phase out of the existing dump trucks and the corresponding acquisition of new ones as replacement in a letter to Tupas dated June 6.

Additional units are to be bought as well, Mejorada added saying such are needed “to improve our capability for road maintenance, construction and rehabilitation work.”

There is also a need for more pay loaders, road graders and backhoe/loaders, the Governor, particularly the Provincial Engineer's Office and the National Irrigation Administration in need of heavy equipment for the repair and rehabilitation of the province's irrigation system.

“The estimated cost of acquisition of new equipment is One Hundred Million Pesos (P100,000,000.00) This amount is still within the borrowing limit of the Province of Iloilo,” Mejorada in his report to the Governor wrote, adding that “in our recent meeting President Gary Teves of the Land Bank of the Philippines, he indicated that this government financial institution is willing to waive the usual requirements to make it easier for the Province to avail of financing for this purpose.”

If LBP grants the loan and the Capitol purchases additional equipment, the province will have ten units of dump trucks, three units of road graders, two units pay loader and one unit of backhoe/loader.

(from The News Today Info Online)

wecky

June 15th, 2005, 07:58 AM

Treñas acknowledges role of private sector
By Marites T. Launio

Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas recently acknowledged the role of the private sector.

“Private sectors in Iloilo City play a big role in the development of the city and in making things possible for the Ilonggos,” the mayor stressed in an interview with the media.

“I am happy that the private sectors are there and are active in supporting our activities because it's helping the city,” he adds.

At the same time, Treñas called on the private sector to coordinate with the city government and help the latter in the creation of more jobs for the Ilonggos.

“I am calling the private sector for a closer partnership with the city government,” he declared.

The mayor also said that the private sector is not only helping the city government in providing more jobs for the Ilonggos but that they are also in touch when it comes to extending aids to some of our fellow Ilonggos including the helping of fire victims in the recent fire that hit Barangay Concepcion last month.

To point out how thankful he is for the private sectors' contribution to the society, he even asked business and media magnate Mr. Rogelio Florete to include in his speech the calling of private sectors to participate more and never get tired in supporting government's future endeavors

The mayor also admitted that the city government can never be on its own even if it does its best and that the private sectors will always have a big part in running the city when it comes to providing jobs and elevating the lives of the Ilonggos.

He also added that the city is doing its best and is now actually focused on poverty elevation.

(from The News Today Info Online)

wecky

June 15th, 2005, 08:02 AM

La Fiesta: For that Filipino ambiance
By Wein P. Gadian

http://www.travelmart.net/philippinesiloilo/lafiesta/images/facade1.jpg

Man's interest for history and culture has influence him in his daily activities. He is shaped by values and traditions that are handed down from generation to generation. In the Philippines, these are seen in Filipinos love for ‘fiestas'. It is also in the people's hospitable nature.

La Fiesta Hotel at M.H. del Pilar St. Molo, Iloilo City brings forth this blend of attitude and appreciation for history. The three-storey hotel has the Antillan character that welcomes guests in a homey Filipino atmosphere. It has a prominence in the staff's Filipino inspired uniform that combines the ambiance, the music and warmth of its staff.

It has spacious function rooms fits any event needs. It has the Multi-Purpose Hall and the Calesa Ballroom. The Carosa Function Room on the second Floor for 20 persons. It is perfect for meetings and other small group discussions.

The Multi-Purpose Hall can accommodate 1000 – 1200 people. And can be converted to accommodate three types of conference needs. The Calesa Ballroom has a capacity of 150 persons and could also be subdivided into two rooms.

Whether for overnight or vacation, with or without your love ones, feel the comfort of La Fiesta's guests rooms. Choose from the Traveler's, Millennium or Centennial Rooms. Or enjoy the serenity of the Regular, Deluxe and the Superior Rooms.

Avail of the 7pm-8am promo at only P 750 for Traveler's Centennial and Millennium Rooms. Or delight in a 30% discount on your Regular, Deluxe and Superior Rooms on a 7pm – 8am promo.

All rooms are equipped and furnished to fit your needs. They are fully air conditioned, with private bath/hot and cold shower, cable TV, telephone and refrigerator. It also boasts of useful amenities for the guests. It has laundry Service that eases your day.

Car rentals are also available for your business, tours or events (weddings, etc.) need. Yes, take pleasure in the room service and secretarial services. And because you are the most important person at La Fiesta, be at peace with the computer, fax and internet access for your ‘ASAP' needs.

Satisfy your shopping needs. You'll be at Robinsons Place-Iloilo, SM City or Gaisano City in just 15 minutes.

It's just in time for the next flight of 10 minutes ride to the airport and approximately 20 minutes away from the pier.

For that archetypal Ilonggo spirit blend into modernization, visit La Fiesta Hotel. Call (033) 338 0044 or email lafiesta@mozcom.net.

(from The News Today Info Online)

wecky

June 15th, 2005, 08:04 AM

Bantay Bata 163 hosts Media Forum
By Wein P. Gadian

Media is one of the most influential sectors of society. It could destroy or build a personality, an issue or even government. With these, it is also noted that there were cases that media men/media women abused its power. One of which is the coverage of cases involving children.

Children's issues are sensitive. It needs careful reporting so as not to deprived their rights. It is of this concern that ABS –CBN's Bantay Bata 163 hosted a whole day media forum at the second floor Conference room of the Capitol Building this June 7.

The forum discussed the Guidelines Media Practitioners on the Reporting and Coverage of Cases Involving Children. The guidelines involve the protection of the child's identity and other crucial matters. Atty. Eric Mallonga, as the guest speaker also elaborated on how a “child-friendly” society could be achieved. He further explained that loving the children is protecting their rights as written in Republic Act 7610 and 7658.

The Media Forum was attended by government agencies as well as non-government organization concerning children. Also those organizations whose concerns include rights and protection of children were present as well as all the local media practitioners both on radio, television and newspaper reporters.

(from The News Today Info Online)

wecky

June 15th, 2005, 08:09 AM

ON MY OWN
Teddy Sumaray
(Panay News - Iloilo)

What’s wrong with our country?

I’m here at the metropolis and over the weekend I have been watching anxiously the events that took place or more precisely, the events that did not take place.

So many reports have been aired over radio and television and in the newspapers that put the nation on hold on what would happen next.

But everybody seems to agree that all is not well in this Pearl of the Orient Seas.
Talks of destabilization and political power grab are rife and they are sapping the energy of the body politic of our nation.

One question begs for an answer. What’s wrong with our country?

Actually, this very same question has been asked over and over again since time immemorial.

And yet, until now, no answer has been given and despite the collective brilliance of our people, no one seems to be able to provide the correct and precise answer to this pestering and persistent dilemma.

I would like to venture my considered view on the question.

I believe that the problem is deeply rooted in our system. Four centuries of foreign subjugation has given rise to the evolution of a culture, which, by its very nature, was divisive, and engendered disunity among the inhabitants of the highly centralized national government controlled mostly by the ruling elite that alienated the masses from the rulers and the government. Only the favored few are enjoying the perquisites of power. Justice is highly compartmentalized with one law applicable to the rich and powerful and another for the poor and less privileged.

This is a simplistic analysis but this is only one man’s view of what’s wrong with our country.

However, all is not really lost. The American legacy of making available to both rich and poor alike the opportunity to acquire education has somehow leveled the playing field. Education has become the Great Equalizer in the race for climbing the social, political, and economic ladder. But indeed, it will take a little more time so that majority of our people will enjoy the blessings of democracy, justice and freedom.

Notes: I do not believe that the Arroyos -- First Gentleman Mike Arroyo, his son Congressman Mikey Arroyo, and his brother Congressman Iggy Arroyo are involved in the “jueteng” payola. I fully agree with their protestation that the charges are barefaced lies, highly preposterous and devoid of any basis at all.

The charges are only concoctions of some political manipulators who are out to discredit President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. These manipulators are poor losers who will do everything in their power to topple the President. I am convinced they will not succeed.

(from Panay News Online)

wecky

June 15th, 2005, 10:31 PM

Festivals support culture, livelihood in W. Visayas

ILOILO City -- On the surface, festivals are crowd-drawing extravaganzas that entail huge expense on the part of organizers. They are part of packaged tourism and show certain aspects of local culture.

But there is more to festivals than just packaging. In Western Visayas region, comprising of the provinces of Iloilo, Negros Occidental, Capiz, Aklan, Antique, Guimaras and the latest inclusion of Palawan, festivals mean more than street dancing to attract tourists. Festivals are cultural showcases in a nutshell. They also support local industries that otherwise do not get to be noticed.

Festivals and the crafts that support them will be featured in Kabugana-an showcase of Western Visayas staged at Intramuros, Manila from June 15 to 28, 2005. Kabugana-an is one of the showcases under the Best of the Regions in Intramuros having the theme “Ginintuang Pamana: Arts, History and Culture.”

For example, young festivals like Pandayan of Badiangan town and Pakuyang sa Tangyan of Igbaras town are deeply rooted in the traditions of the said towns.

Pandayan, slated June 18, draws inspiration from the centuries-old blacksmithing tradition of the central Iloilo town of Badiangan. The town produces many kinds of long blades (bolo or binangon) and knives. The industry supports families and made the town famous for its products.

In Pandayan, the town’s blacksmithing tradition takes center stage. Through stylized movements, the festival pays tribute to the ingenuity, craftsmanship and industry of the town. The dances will be accompanied by poundings and rhythm of metallic instruments to simulate the poundings and beat of blacksmiths while at work.

Pakuyang sa Tangyan was launched last May 18 in the mountain town of Igbaras in southern Iloilo. Pakuyang means to offer, and Tangyan is the name of the river in Igbaras. The festival combines traditional ritual with environmental consciousness because it promotes rehabilitation of Tangyan River, once a major waterway and a source of fresh water fishes of the town. Deforestation in the mountains has dried up the river.

Pakuyang festival had mobilized communities that were clustered to support a tribe or a performing group. The festival also breathed life to the dying craft of weaving in the town. Many performing groups used hand-woven patadyong woven by women in Barangay Sta. Barbara. Because of the festival, orders were made and many women who have otherwise abandoned their handlooms started weaving again to keep up with the orders.

Festivals being supported by communities and vice versa are what Kabugana-an means.

The word means bounty and abundance, and for dozens of festivals all over Western Visayas, it is not mere tourism events. Festivals are also opportunities for communities to improve their lot.

Enduring and popular festivals in Western Visayas share that element of promoting culture and livelihood. These were evident in the Ati-Atihan, Dinagyang, MassKara, Halaran and Binirayan where tourism receipts, as well as local revenues, get a boost.

Ties are also strengthened, local talents are tapped and tourism facilities are upgraded. The cooperation, industry, warmth, gaiety seen and felt during the festivals will continue to drive Western Visayas in the 21st century.

(from Panay News Online)

wecky

June 16th, 2005, 03:17 AM

Thursday, June 16, 2005
Culture and livelihood in West Visayas festivals

FESTIVALS may just be considered crowd-drawing extravaganzas, a part of tourism industry and local culture. But there is more to these festivals.

In Western Visayas, comprised of the provinces of Iloilo, Negros Occidental, Capiz, Aklan, Antique and Guimaras, festivals mean more than street dancing to attract tourists.

Aside from being cultural showcases, festivals also support local industries that are otherwise forgotten.

Festivals and the crafts that support them will be featured in Kabugana-an showcase of Western Visayas at the Intramuros, Manila on June 15 to 28.

Kabugana-an, which means bounty and abundance, is one of the showcases under the Best of the Regions in Intramuros, has a theme "Ginintuang Pamana: Arts, History and Culture."

Young festivals like Pandayan of Badiangan town and Pakuyang sa Tangyan of Igbaras town are deeply rooted in local traditions.

Pandayan, slated June 18, draws inspiration from the centuries-old blacksmithing tradition of the central Iloilo town of Badiangan. The town produces many kinds of long blades (bolo or binangon) and knives. The industry supports families and made the town famous for its products.

In Pandayan, the town's blacksmithing tradition takes center stage. Through stylized movements, the festival pays tribute to the ingenuity, craftsmanship and industry of town. The dances will be accompanied by poundings and rhythm of metallic instruments to simulate the sounds produced by blacksmiths at work.

Pakuyang sa Tangyan was launched last May 18 in the mountain town of Igbaras in southern Iloilo. Pakuyang means to offer, and Tangyan is the name of the river in Igbaras.

The festival combines traditional ritual with environmental consciousness because it promotes rehabilitation of Tangyan River, once a major waterway and a source of fresh water fishes of the town. Deforestation in the mountains has dried up the river.

Pakuyang festival mobilized communities that were clustered to support a tribe or a performing group. The festival also breathed life to the dying craft of weaving in the town.

Many performing groups used hand-woven patadyong woven by women in Barangay Santa Barbara. Because of the festival, orders were made and many women who have otherwise abandoned their handlooms started weaving again to keep up with the orders.

Enduring and popular festivals in Western Visayas share that element of promoting culture and livelihood. These were evident in the Ati-Atihan, Dinagyang, Masskara, Halaran and Binirayan where tourism receipts as well as local revenues get a boost.

Ties were also strengthened, local talents were tapped and tourism facilities upgraded. The cooperation, industry, warmth, gaiety seen and felt during the festivals will continue to drive Western Visayas in the 21st century. (PR/DOT 6)

(from Sunstar Iloilo News Online)

wecky

June 16th, 2005, 03:34 AM

Governor voices hope for faster growth with Palawan now part of W. Visayas

PUERTO PRINCESA CITY — "We respect the decision of President Arroyo, and perhaps our integration with the provinces in Western Visayas would bring about a positive change in our economy," Palawan Gov. Joel T. Reyes said the other day.

Earlier, President Arroyo issued Executive Order No. 429 transferring Palawan from Region IV-B (MIMAROPA) to Western Visayas (Region VI).

EO 429 states that based on "the constitutional authority of the President of the Philippines to exercise general supervision over local governments, there is an urgent need for the administrative reorganization of Region VI to include the Province of Palawan and City of Puerto Princesa to guarantee the effective delivery of field and public services of government agencies and accelerate social and economic development."

For many years, Palawan was part of the Southern Tagalog Region or Region IV. Later, Region IV-B was formed, comprising of the island provinces of Mindoro Oriental, Mindoro Occidental, Marinduque, Romblon, and Palawan. The region was also called MIMAROPA.

Governor Reyes urged his provincemates to look with optimism the inclusion of Palawan and Puerto Princesa in Region VI.

He said that although Palawan had been with Region IV and later with Region IV-B for many years, this linkage has not steered the province towards genuine economic growth and development.

In fact, he said, Palawan has been left behind in terms of economic development by the provinces of Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon. Neither has the grouping of the island provinces into MIMAROPA triggered growth, he said.

He noted that Palawan, particularly those in the northwestern section (Calamianes group, Cuyo, Agutaya, Magsaysay and Cagayancillo), has long established historical and cultural ties with Western Visayas. Cuyo’s native tongue, Cuyonon, has similarities with Hiligaynon.

It was also observed that Palawan has a more lively trade and commercial linkage with the Panay Region than with Region IV and MIMAROPA.

With the issuance of EO 429, Palawan’s ties with the Western Visayas will be formalized and strengthend, Governor Reyes said.

"We look at this change with an open mind and with optimism for speedier development of the province," he said. (RB)

(from Manila Bulletin Online)

whyte

June 16th, 2005, 08:02 AM

:wave: CHYMERA,WECKY and everybody

* hopefully the recent FIESTA in the CITY would be an annual event promoting the province to its people first before "others"

wecky

June 19th, 2005, 02:18 AM

hi Whyte ... off for few days ... medyo nagbakasyon lang ... so here I am .. back again from the Land of Deutsche ... enjoyed to the max ... it's my last European trip before going home in Iloilo this July ... anyway, i'll try to keep our thread updated.

Cheers!

wecky

June 19th, 2005, 02:20 AM

Vans want continued use of terminal in Molo

By DAVID ISRAEL SINAY

The Miag-ao Association of Van Owners and Drivers (MAVOD), Inc. asked the Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) that they be allowed to continue using their terminal Brgy. San Pedro, Molo District.

The Perimeter Boundary Ordinance (PBO) moved the terminals of public utility vehicles (PUVs) coming from southern Iloilo to Arevalo.

MAVOD President Edwin Porras noted that vans from Antique continue using their terminal in Brgy. San Pedro, Molo.

The PBO bans the entry of all provincial public utility vehicles to Iloilo City to decongest the city’s jammed streets.

For PUVs from Tigbauan, Guimbal, Miag-ao, Igbaras, Tubungan, San Joaquin and Antique, it designated Arevalo as the area where they could put up terminals.

Aside from the SP, MAVOD also appealed to Barangay Captain Cyro Lapascua of San Pedro, Molo.

The SP referred MAVOD’s concern to the Committee on Transportation, Energy and Public Utilities chaired by Councilor Jose Espinosa III.

(from Panay News Online)

wecky

June 19th, 2005, 02:24 AM

Saturday, June 18, 2005
Badiangan celebrates Pandayan Festival

TAKE a trip to Badiangan as the municipality celebrates its 2nd Pandayan Festival Saturday.

The Pandayan Festival, a venue in promoting the famous "bingauan bolo," is a unique festival that features contesting groups named after knives and other "pandayan" products, performing to the sound of metal musical instruments.

This year's contending groups are: Grupo Binakuko (Tamocol, Agusipan, Cabangan, Cabanga-an, Bingauan, Guinawahan); Grupo Pinandak (Tina, Sariri, San Julian, Latawan, Ilongbukid); Grupo Sinuwak (Bitaoyan, Malublob, Sinuagan, Astorga); Grupo Surot (Iniligan, Catubig, Teneclan, Budiawe); Grupo Balintawak (Poblacion, Talaba, Linayuan, Cabyogan); Grupo Ginunting (Botong, Mapili Grande, Mapili Sanjo, Calansanan); and Grupo Linamay (Manaolan, Odiongan, Mainguit, Indorohan, Sianon). The groups are composed of clustered barangays and schools.

The concept of performance highlights the "pandayan" process and the functions and uses of the various types of pandayan products. Other products of Badiangan may also be incorporated as part of the presentation.

The costumes should be creative and must be made of any indigenous material found in the municipality but a peasant costume, which reflects the everyday wear of Badianganon is the recommended costume. Hablon material, patadyong, wood, sukdap, ramay, ginit may be included as costume materials.

For headdresses, "pulos" for men and "bandana" for women are required and the use of "buri" hat for men is also suggested.

Any type of "binangon" or any other products of the "pamadayan" in Bingauan, being the centerpiece of the presentation must be integrated as part of the costume and choreography.

Live music must be used and it should be metal, steel or iron-based. Cymbals, xylophones, lyre, gongs and other existing metal or steel are not allowed. Metal scarps, steel bars, iron rods and tin plates must be used. Wood and bamboo may be used but the dominant sound should be of metal, iron, tin or steel. However, the use of sound system or amplifier is now allowed.

Awards

Five special awards are at stake: the Best in Performance, Best in Discipline, Best in Music, Best in Costume and Best in Choreography.

Pandayan Festival 2005 is also a showcase of Badianganon's ingenuity, craftsmanship and was of life through dance and merrymaking.

It is a secular and occupational festival that features the bingon-making in Barangay Bingauan, Badiangan, Iloilo.

The promotion of Pandayan Festival is also anchored in the celebration of the town's 38th Foundation Day on June 17.

This 5th class municipality located 40 kilometers north of Iloilo City became an independent municipality from progressive town of Janiuay by virtue of Republic Act 5006 authored by the late representative Gloria M. Tabiana.

Part of the celebration is the launching of Badiangan instant tahu and Bingauan binangon as the town's unique products.

(from Sunstar Iloilo News Online)

wecky

June 19th, 2005, 02:25 AM

Saturday, June 18, 2005
Rich tapestry of colors, culture in W. Visayas' textiles

HABLON, patadyong, silk, piña and other hand-woven products from Western Visayas are among the products displayed and sold to visitors in the ongoing Kabugana-an showcase in Intramuros, Manila.

These traditional textiles became the toast of the fashion runways. But they are also ever present in the homes of rich and poor in Western Visayas and sold in wet markets.

Handwoven textiles and products will be featured in Kabugana-an showcase of Western Visayas staged at Intramuros, Manila on June 15 to 28.

Kabugana-an is one of the showcases under The Best of the Regions in Intramuros that has a theme: Ginintuang Pamana: Arts, History and Culture.

Patadyong

Patadyong is the cloth of many colors of stripes, squares and rectangles. Hablon are hand-woven textiles, sometimes in muted colors and sometimes combined with silk threads. Patadyong and hablon are available in the southern towns of Iloilo and some parts of Antique, woven by women who have the tradition of weaving for more 150 years.

Piña comes from Aklan where weavers painstakingly processed pineapple fibers and weave them to become exquisite cloth that command high price for its beauty and workmanship.

Silk is one of the recent products of Western Visayas coming from the silk farms in Negros Occidental.

The traditional textiles in Western Visayas have survived through the tenacity of families who learned the craft. Some fashion designers, entrepreneurs and local government officials have supported their production, although it wasn't enough to encourage many women to go back to their looms or prevent young weavers to leave for work in the cities or abroad.

Although they are not for everyday wear, Western Visayans have an attachment to these traditional textiles. Patadyong, for example, is a versatile cloth. It is a skirt, a hammock, an apron and a convenient wipe.

Women wear patadyong while washing clothes or bathing in the river. The cloth also functions as a curtain, a tablecloth, pillowcase and blanket, among others. Fashion designers recently turned patadyong into gowns, cocktail dresses, resort and formal wear.

Many patterns and colors of traditional textiles in Western Visayas have remained the same through years, although the colors have become brighter and varied.

Iloilo was once the source of substantial quantity of cotton cloth and hand-woven products from abaca, and pineapple, said Spanish chronicler Miguel de Loarca. These cloth were shipped to countries in Europe, Asia and America.

That they have endured to this day is proof that the craft and the textiles have threaded their way into the Western Visayan culture. (PR/DOT-6)

(from Sunstar Iloilo News Online)

wecky

June 19th, 2005, 02:27 AM

Saturday, June 18, 2005
Amigo Hotel holds Kasalan sa Iloilo

ON JUNE 24-25, 2005, Amigo Terrace Hotel and ABS-CBN and Kasal.com will stage the fifth leg of its second Philippine Bridal Fair Road show in Iloilo City dubbed as Kasalan sa Iloilo 2 featuring the best of the country's wedding essentials and services.

The national bridal fair kicked off early this year in Baguio, Tarlac, Davao and Cavite.

Kasal.com aims to promote awareness and appreciation to Filipino ingenuity especially in the wedding related industry and giving due importance to the local service suppliers and artisans.

Must visit and see events in this two-day free admission bridal gathering are the various services and crafts offered by our local suppliers ranging from invitations, cakes, wines, flower arrangements, accessories, photo and video, honeymoon, destinations, souvenirs, giveaways, and a lot more.

An exhibition of wedding gowns by the city's fashion experts can be viewed at the Belle Terrasse.

Educational talks and presentations are on the program's agenda namely; the "Evolution of Floral and Event Styling in Philippine Weddings" by renowned Ilonggo Stylist Robert Blancaflor of 1816 fame, which is highly recommended to all florist and garden enthusiasts; "Wedding Art" for the budding vent stylists by John Montinola and Ian Jord; "Elegance in Wedding Cakes" by Burgos Bakery, a cake presentation perfect for your dream wedding confections.

Great ideas from the experts, latest cosmetic colors for the radiant bride and her maids, with Sara Lee's Bridal Make-over demo.

There will be a pep-talk with ace-photographer Vero Paloma of Paloma Photography on the latest photography technique with lights and poses; Wine Appreciation by Jay Abad Santos of the Andresons Group and Health and Fitness by Michael Chua of Winners Gym. ABS-CBN Regional Network Group talk shows, The Morning Show, Ilongga Ka Day and Amiga will cover the affair.

A dinner-fashion Show entitled "Wedding Aisle" will cap the Bridal Fair's finale on the evening of the 25th, with 14 of Iloilo's talented designers--Mel Varca, Nonoy Jaranilla, Sol Fernandez, Totong Gellangarin, Francis Ian Chua, Don Protasio, Claire Jaranilla, Jaki Penalosa, Bo Parcon, Bo Constantino, Angelette Borja-Ragus, Roy Sesbreno, Eric de los Santos and Alex Soncio will show of their wedding gown creations.

Tickets for the show are available at the hotel's front desk and participating fashion designers.

The bridal caravan is also maid possible by Nivea Body, Kimberly Clark, Colgate Palmolive, Philippine Airlines, Pearl of the Pacific, HP, Red Hat, Glisaz and OP Designs an the following media partners; ABS-CBN RNG, Lifestyle Network, DWRR, MOR, Manila Bulletin, About Weddings, Sunstar Iloilo, Philstar.com and Trabaho.com.

Kasalan sa Iloilo 2 would also like to thank Paloma Photography, Classique Video, Nueva Flora, Ilonggo Producers Association, Direct Selling by Sara Lee, I-Premiere Magazine, Mr. Robert Blancaflor, Institute of HRM and Tourism of the Central Philippine University, Winner's Gym.

Exhibitors are: J & R Family Studio, Ilonggo Handmade Products, Blue Screen Digital Photography, The Blurb Magazine, Tronco Photo & Video, Body Shot Photo & Video Shoppe, Centerpiece by Robert Blancaflor, Institute of HRM and Tourism, Classique Video, Ichi-Pichi, Personalized Expression, Paloma Photography, Nueva flora, Ilonggo Producers Association, Sara Lee, Birds of the Rainbow, Winner's Gym, Eric Nepomoceno Photography, Skinetics Medical Day Spa & Skin Clinic, Flowers by Nening Rubido, Andersons Group, Burgos Bakery, L&B Travel and Tours, I-Premiere Magazine, Lush Blossoms, Panaderia de Iloilo, Spa Centrale, Ralph's Wines & Spirits.

For more details, contact Amigo Terrace Hotel at 335-0908 and look for Yana Octaviano. See you at the Fair. (PR)

(from Sunstar Iloilo News Online)

wecky

June 19th, 2005, 02:28 AM

Saturday, June 18, 2005
Western Visayas's unique tour packages

MAKE the journey to Western Visayas and discover its treasures through its unique tour packages.

These will be featured in the Kabugana-an showcase at Intramuros, Manila on June 15 to 28. Kabugana-an is one of the showcases under The Best of the Regions in Intramuros that has a theme Ginintuang Pamana: Arts, History and Culture.

Take a walk and a boat ride into a 70-hectare mangrove forest in Kalibo, Aklan. Be ready to be greeted by clear water lapping in the slow outrigger boat and the sound of birds chirping.

Such is the appeal of the Bakhawan Eco-Park Tour in Aklan. The mangrove forest has reaped national and international awards for excellence in environmental protection.

The park is also a visited by scientists and students who study mangroves and other marine life. It also houses a training center, restaurant and a souvenir shop.

A 20-minute boat ride from Iloilo takes a traveler to Guimaras Island for a day tour. Guimaras has unspoiled landscapes and white sand beaches. It also has mountain resorts like Valle Verde that gives a panoramic view of the sea.

Guimaras offers island hopping and visits to coves and secluded beaches. For a more quiet time, a visit to Trappist Monastery or a hike to Balaan Bukid is a must.

If you're searching for what is authentically Ilonggo, a city and countryside tour in Iloilo is a good place to start. A visit to Museo Iloilo that outlines the history of the Iloilo province introduces a visitor to origins and many influences that make up the Ilonggo culture. A drive through the old commercial district, known as Calle Real, and a stopover to the Iloilo Producers Association showroom are rewarding.

A visit to Jaro district brings the traveler to turn-of-the-century buildings and homes and the stately Jaro Cathedral.

This contrasts with that of the Molo Church, inspired by Gothic-Renaissance style, where all saints are females. While touring Iloilo, it is best to sample two famous dishes--batchoy and pancit molo.

In a city tour of Roxas, Capiz, one basks in freshness and abundance of seafood of which Capiz province is known for. A visit to Teodoro Arcenas Trade Center and Banica Dried Fish Market is a must. These places offer a wide variety of fresh and processed. Baybay Beach has rows of restaurants and resorts that serve delicious seafood grilled, stewed and cooked the native way.

Try your angling skills at Capiz Bay Resort.

For a glimpse of culture and history, visit the Ang Panubli-on (Heritage) Museum and Roxas City Display Center where handicrafts and cut flower and ornamental plants are sold.

Discover Antique and Negros Occidental tour packages and know more about adventure and culture in these provinces. Antique tours appeal to the adventurous while that of Negros Occidental attracts those who would like to soak up on culture and history. Antique offers exploration of its mountains, reefs and marine reserves.

Negros Occidental tours bring visitors to the cities of Talisay and Silay. The latter was once known as the Parish of Negros, the center of arts and culture.

Today, Silay City is dotted by 31 ancestral houses identified by the National Historical Institute as cultural landmarks. The Negros Occidental tour is best capped with a visit to Victorias Milling Company, said to be the largest integrated sugar mill and refinery in the world. (PR/DOT-6)

(from Sunstar Iloilo News Online)

wecky

June 19th, 2005, 02:31 AM

Friday, June 17, 2005
Transfer of Palawan to W. Visayas completed by August

PALAWAN Palawan and its capital Puerto Princesa City will officially be part of Western Visayas by August, the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) regional office said.

Regional Director Evelyn Trompeta disclosed in a statement that DILG offices in Region 4-B, where Palawan originally belonged and Western Visayas are coordinating with their respective Regional Development Councils (RDCs) to prepare for the implementation of the Executive Order 429.

Trompeta said the RDCs would synchronize the action plans of each National Government agency.

The DILG will collect copies of the action plans and monitor the activities related to the turnover, which shall later be reported to President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

"Since all National Government agencies implement the same programs at the local governments, we expect that the implementation of these programs will not be hampered," Trompeta said.

"However, Palawan would have to adapt to the peculiar programs of the region. For example, DILG 6 prioritizes Go-Far (Good Practices in Local Governance: Facility for Adaptation and Replication) and the Local Government Resource Center. Palawan will have to keep up with us."

Also in preparation for the transfer, the Regional Association of National Government Executives (Range), of which Trompeta is first vice president, passed Resolution 2005-09 last June 7, recommending to RDC 6 to make representations with airline and shipping companies to resume regular trips from several places in Panay and Negros to Palawan.

Trompeta has coordinated with DILG 4-B Regional Director Rodolfo Ferraren for the inventory of the department's assets and personnel in Palawan.

"We hope to finalize the inventory and turn over the administration of assets and personnel of Palawan to Region 6 within the first week of July," Trompeta said. "The turn over of finances, however, would be finalized in August."

"Palawan was part of Western Visayas a long time ago so it will be like a homecoming for all concerned," Trompeta said.

(from Sunstar Iloilo News Online)

wecky

June 19th, 2005, 02:35 AM

Business affected by series of brown-outs
By Maricar M. Calubiran

The power rationing scheme of the Panay Power Corporation has adversely affected business operations in Iloilo City, Mayor Jerry Treñas said.

The PPC, which supplies 80% of the City's power needs, implemented the scheme after one of their generating sets conked out, which in turn affected the power firm's capacity to supply electricity.

Iloilo City has been experiencing daily brownouts because of the power scheme.

“It has affected the business,” the mayor stressed.

Treñas said he was assured by PPC that they are doing everything to fix the damaged generator.

The mayor added that power supply is very important and “they could not do anything about it” but to wait until the equipment is repaired. “We could not get it from anyone, “he said. The power failure is another expense on the business establishments since they have to use generators to augment their power needs.

The mayor is hoping that the PPC could have their needed spare parts to repair their generator set at the soonest time and immediately supply the city's power needs. He will also ask the PPC to give advisories on what areas and the specific time for the company to trip off their power supply.

Meanwhile, black-outs do not only happen in the city but in the different municipalities in the province of Iloilo particularly those areas serviced by ILECO. Consumers have been complaining on the unannounced brown-outs.

(from The News Today Info Online)

wecky

June 19th, 2005, 02:37 AM

SP OKs P100-M loan for heavy equipment
By Florence F. Hibionada

The Sanggunian Panlalawigan approved Tuesday the request of Gov. Niel Tupas to borrow P100 million from Land Bank of the Philippines for the purchase of heavy equipment.

Voting 9-4, the body gave Tupas the authority to enter into a contract of loan with the government finance institution after lengthy and heated exchanges, unresolved matters and unanswered questions

It was not smooth sailing however for the administration lawmakers in the SP.

The governor's request encountered resistance from the SP's minority members and the 'conscience bloc,' who all questioned the 'speed' at which the request was being processed.

Vice Governor Roberto Armada relinquished his spot as presiding chair and aired similar concerns however in the final count, administration board members ended up victorious.

In an interview, Armada told The News Today that all he wanted was to be clarified why the loan was being railroaded without the benefit of a deliberation.

"We have to remember that this is a loan that will be paid by people's money. Sure we need new dump trucks and other heavy equipment, but is this the best option for us?," he pointed out, adding "and why the rush?"

Armada, in taking note of the loan's expediency, lamented that the committee on appropriations and infrastructure conducted only one hearing. The committee is chaired by Tupas' son, 5 th district Board Member Niel Tupas Jr. and Board Member Domingo Oso, also an ally of the governor.

Justifying the need for the said loan, Oso averred that as per explanation of Provincial Engineer Gracianito Lucero the provincial government spends 17-18 million pesos for the maintenance of the old fleet of heavy equipment.

The expenditure increases every year, with that, Oso said it is much better for the provincial government to acquire brand new heavy equipment.

"The resource persons called in said hearing were not even made to put their statements under oath," the Vice Governor said. "And the minutes were not even approved yet nor ratified and now here comes the move for the approval of its report."

The P100M loan stemmed from the June 2, 2005 letter request of Provincial Engineer Gracianito Lucero. The letter contained a proposal that explained the need of the Iloilo Provincial Government to acquire brand new heavy equipment and phase out the fleet of old ones. The very next day, Governor Tupas issued Executive Order No. 186 creating an inter-office committee on the purchase of various heavy equipment. Chaired by top Tupas aide, Provincial Administrator Manuel Mejorada, a report then reached the governor three days later in June 6th with committee findings pushing for Lucero's proposal. By June 7th Governor Tupas wrote the SP seeking authority. With the agenda for that day's regular session already calendared, the item was inserted and tackled in the "Other matters." By June 8th, the committee hearing was conducted with the matter apparently resolved thereafter.

Board Member Licurgo Tirador in posing his objections asked about the supposed multi-million surplus of the province.

"We hear the governor saying we have that surplus. Why can't we use that for this purpose?," Tirador said.

Board Member Macario Napulan for his part pointed out the need for a feasibility study given the enormity of said loan. Same sentiment supported by the Vice Governor who added, "how can the board members make a sound judgment on something this big based on assumptions because indeed, we have no feasibility study on this one as of yet."

The loan like its SP approval is expected to be in the provincial coffers also in record speed with no less than Provincial Administrator Mejorada taking note of the assurance from LBP president, Gary Teves. Teves, he said in a letter to the governor, "indicated that this government financial institution is willing to waive the usual requirements to make it easier for the Province to avail of financing for this purpose."

(from the News Today Info Online)

wecky

June 19th, 2005, 02:38 AM

5,638 residents benefit from city health care program
By Maricar M. Calubiran

Some 5,638 city residents have availed of the PHILHEALTH health care program of the city government for the past two years and half since the health program was implemented.

Mayor Jerry Treñas said he will try to look for funds to continue the program, which supports the health care needs of the Ilonggos. The program had benefited much since its was in effect. Yearly, the city pays P3 million to PHILHEALTH.

In 2003, the availment of the health care benefit reached to P6.2 million and in 2004 it increased by more than P3 million. The health care availment was P9.1 million. The total availment is P15 million and much bigger than the yearly P3 million payment of the city.

In the first quarter of the 2005, there were already 723 people who availed of health care from PHILHEALTH. Treñas did not cite any figure on how much the beneficiaries have availed.

The mayor said PHILHEALTH can extend as much as P60, 000 worth of health care needs under the city's program. Among the top beneficiaries who availed much from the program were Diomedes Borja of Barangay Quintin Salas, Jaro and Cezar Corazon of Boulevard Molo.

Treñas added that the city will also benefit from the PHILHEALTH capitation scheme. From the last quarter of 2004, PHILHEALTH will return to the city half of the payment they made or P1.5 million or P3 million for the past two years.

The returned amount will be spent for nurses, health workers and doctors. The remaining amount is intended for the construction or rehabilitation of health centers in the different district in the city.

(from The News Today Info Online)

wecky

June 19th, 2005, 02:40 AM

Kabugana-an Showcase: Western Visayas tour packages beckon

Tour packages in Western Visayas have a lot to say; but make the journey and let it speak for you.

Tour packages will be featured in Kabugana-an showcase of Western Visayas staged at Intramuros, Manila on June 15 to 28. Kabugana-an is one of the showcases under The Best of the Regions in Intramuros that has a theme Ginintuang Pamana : Arts, History and Culture.

Take a walk and a boat ride into a 70-hectare mangrove forest in Kalibo Aklan. Be ready to be greeted by clear water lapping in the slow outrigger boat and the sound of birds chirping conveyed in many voices and moods. Then there is also a silence deep within the mangrove forest.

Such is the appeal of the Bakhawan Eco-Park Tour in Aklan. The mangrove forest has reaped national and international awards for excellence in environmental protection. The park is also a visited by scientists and students who study mangroves and other marine life. It also houses a training center, restaurant and a souvenir shop.

A 20-minute boat ride from Iloilo takes a traveler to Guimaras Island for a day tour. Guimaras has unspoiled landscapes and white sand beaches. It also has mountain resorts like Valle Verde which gives a panoramic view of the sea. Guimaras offers island hopping and visits to coves and secluded beaches. For a more quiet time, a visit to Trappist Monastery or a hike to Balaan Bukid is a must.

If you're searching for what is authentically Ilonggo, a city and countryside tour in Iloilo is a good place to start. A visit to Museo Iloilo that outlines the history of the Iloilo province introduces a visitor to origins and many influences that make up the Ilonggo culture. A drive through the old commercial district, known as Calle Real, and a stopover to the Iloilo Producers Association showroom are rewarding.

A visit to Jaro district brings traveler to see turn-of-the-century buildings and homes and the stately Jaro Cathedral where all its icons are male saints. This contrasts with that of the Molo Church, inspired by Gothic-Renaissance style, where all saints are females. While touring Iloilo, it is best to sample two famous dishes – batchoy and pancit molo .

In a city tour of Roxas City, Capiz, one basks in freshness and abundance of seafood of which Capiz province is known for. A visit to Teodoro Arcenas Trade Center and Banica Dried Fish Market is a must. These places offer a wide variety of fresh and processed. Baybay Beach has rows of restaurants and resorts that serve delicious seafood grilled, stewed and cooked the native way. Try your angling skills at Capiz Bay Resort.

For a glimpse of culture and history, visit the Ang Panubli-on (Heritage) Museum and Roxas City Display Center where handicrafts and cut flower and ornamental plants are sold.

Discover Antique and Negros Occidental tour packages and know more about adventure and culture in these provinces. Antique tours appeal to the adventurous while that of Negros Occidental attract those who would like to soak up on culture and history. Antique offers exploration of its mountains, reefs and marine reserves.

Negros Occidental tours bring visitors to the cities of Talisay and Silay. The latter was once known as the Parish of Negros, the center of arts and culture. Today, Silay City is dotted by 31 ancestral houses identified by the National Historical Institute as cultural landmarks. The Negros Occidental tour is best capped with a visit to Victorias Milling Company, said to be the largest integrated sugar mill and refinery in the world. (DOT VI)

(from the News Today Info Online)

wecky

June 19th, 2005, 02:43 AM

Pandayan Festival of Badiangan

From a mere ‘barrio' considered part of the vast and progressive town of Janiuay, Badiangan became an independent municipality by vitue of RA 5006.

It said that Badiangan came from the word “ka-badiangan,' meaning a place where many “badiang” plants grow. Characterized by a very large leafy portion, “badiang” belongs to the gabi family of plants. It grows abundantly in the place where the first Spanish settlers inquired from the natives. Thinking the strangers refered to the plant, they replied, “ka-badiangan”. Later it came to be known as Badiangan.

It has a total land area of 7, 750 hectares with 31 barangays. It is a 5 th class municipalty located 40 km north of Iloilo City in the Western part of the province. Bounded in the southwest of Janiuay, Mina on the southeast., Pototan on the east and Dueñas on the north and Lambunao on the northwest.

The town is famous for its agriculture. As the backbone of economy, the town produces rice and sugar as its primary crops. It also produces coffee, root crops, vegetables, coconuts, lanzones, banana, bamboo and buyo. The sweet mangoes of the town are also exported and sold in local markets in the province.

Aside from these, Badiangan is also famous for its Bingauan bolos and other knives known locally and even in other countries. Crafted to perfection by the hardworking "pandays," Bingauan handcrafted steel instruments and tools have always been preferred in local markets because of their proven quality and durability. The most popular "binangon" is known for its manifold functions in the home, and is even given away as "pasalubong" for guests and friends here and abroad.

"Pagpamanday" is the main source of livelihood for many Bingauanons. The elders say that it began before the 18 th century and was pioneered by Domingo Bolero, Bonifacio Porras, Solomon Collado and Fetipe Amigable. They got the idea from the Spaniards who carried with them bladed weapons wherever they went. With the Bingauanons ingenuity, various types of "binangons" as well as other products from steel were developed and have become very popular not only locally but also internationally.

The "binakuko" is the traditional and most popular form of "binangon" which is used in chopping wood and in other household activities. The "sinuwak" is another type which resembles the young sepals of the coconut and is used in carpentry and in cutting shrubs and smaller trees. This is mostly given as souvenir for guests and visitors. The "ginunting" has more or less the same functions as the sinuwak. The "pinuti" (butcher's knife) is smaller in size and is used in slicing meat. The" tangkap" is a plane ended knife which can also be used in the kitchen. There are also other types labeled as "linamay". "surot" (trowel) used in gardening, and "balintawak" . The "kayog" which was used to harvest rice during the olden times and a smaller version of the present-day "garab"; and the "wasay" which is used to chop lumber and bigger trees are also some of the many bladed instruments that the Bingauanons make.

Pamandayan is an industry that has to do with grafting bladed instruments from scrap metals and steel. A piece of "binangon" takes several hours to finish and requires a lot of strength, sweat and effort on the part of the "panday". Usually, three to four persons take turns in grafting a "binangon". There is the maestro or manugkimpit who puts the piece of steel into the burning charcoal to make it pliant and easy to shape. There is a manugpalo who is in charge of flattening the steel to its desired thickness. The woman of the house usually handles the "hasuwasan" to keep the charcoal burning and weaves the "pikit" around the handle to prevent it from falling when attached to one's belt or waist.

A "binangon" is a product of various stages and of various materials. After hours of exposure to heat and of strenuous beating by the "manugpalo" the piece of steel is flattened, shaped and its blade or "kilay " is made. Then, the dark portions of the steel are polished to perfection. The sheath or case is then prepared out of wood. The "pikit" is made out of "nito" or "oway". And the "panuelo" is made out of carabao or cow's skin. The handle or "polo" is made of hardwood. Stainless steel or any metal is used to seal or glue the "pitala" or end of the binangon to its handle.

Pagpamanday is a tradition that was passed on from generations to generations of Bingauanons. It is an industry that shows the ingenuity, craftsmanship and industry of Badianganons.

As evident in the popularity and durability of every finished product, the "pandays'"of Binaguan, the Bingauan Binangon and other products of the "pandays" of Bingauan are truly every Badianganon's pride.

With this, Badiangan celebrates “Pandayan Festival” showcasing this "Bingauan Binangon" and other products of the "pandays" or blacksmiths of Barangay Bingauan, Badiangan on June 18 – 24.

Pandayan Festival is a celebration of the "pagpamanday" in Bingauan, of the "bingauan binangon" and of all the best things Badianganons have to offer. Pandayan is a showcase of the Badianganons talent, culture and tradition.

The festival includes float parade, Agri-Industrial Fair, Miss Pandayan Search and the highlight of the festival in the cultural presentations.

The contesting groups are named after the types of ‘binangon' the pandays make. It would use all steel base instruments. And will also depict the lifestyle of Badiannganon. There will also be a unique sound and movement created as a specific “Pandayan Festival” , Badianganon's own.

Be there and experience Pandayan Festival.

(from The News Today Info Online)

wecky

June 19th, 2005, 02:45 AM

FILIPINO – SPANISH FRIENDSHIP DAY
June 29-30, 2005

June 28, 2005
• Arrival in Iloilo of Spanish Delegation (pm) “Putong” welcome at airport

• Courtesy call on Iloilo Governor Niel D. Tupas

June 29, 2005
9:00 am - Laying of wreath at Arevalo Plaza monument

9:30 - Opening Ceremonies at Museo Iloilo (Ushers/usherettes c/o USA)

• Welcome – Iloilo City Mayor Jerry P. Treñas/Iloilo Governor Niel D. Tupas

• Response : Spanish Ambassador Ignacio Sagaz

• Palimpsesto – Museo Iloilo and the University of San Agustin

• Opening of the Art Exhibit of Ilonggo artists by Sen. Edgardo Angara

10:00 - Feria Española – Hotel del Rio (2 days) Sponsored by Spanish Commercial Dept. This trade fair features Spanish wine, food and consumer products.

11:00 - Seminar on Wine (part 1) at Hotel del Rio

2:00 pm - Lecture on Spanish Influence on Filipino Architecture by Instituto de Cervantes at USA Conference Room (capacity: 250 pax)

- Flamenco dance workshop by Centro Flamenco at Iloilo National High School (2 – 5 pm)

3:00 - Seminar on Wine (part 2) at Hotel del Rio

- Demo/ Workshop on Spanish cooking at Hotel del Rio

4:00 - REHEARSALS of USA Troubadours and Kawilihan USA at CAP
Auditorium (2 hrs.)

5:00 - Tertulia y Tapas - Sarabia Manor Hotel

Featuring :

• Merienda- cena
• Welcome Remarks by Mayor Jerry P. Treñas
• Fashion Show – Patis Tesoro/Jackie Peñalosa
• Classical Guitar – Dr. Daphne Estrada
• Poetry reading and Spanish songs/music – Mr. Nonel Gemora
• Street dancing after the tertulia

6:00 - DANCE REHEARSALS of Centro Flamenco at CAP Auditorium (2 hrs)

June 30, 2005
9:00 am - Courtesy Call on Mayor Jerry Treñas at Mayor's Office

- Presentation of the key of Iloilo City to Ambassador Sagaz by Mayor Treñas

9:30 – 4:00*- Heritage tour of Spanish delegation

10:00 am a. Courtesy Call on Archbishop Angel Lagdameo

b. City tour
- 3 Ancestral Mansions
- Museo Iloilo
- Jaro Cathedral, Molo, Tigbauan and Miag-ao Churches
- Shopping
(* - Advance booking required thru Sierra tours. Tel (02) 8982451 c/o Mitzi)

9:30 - Flamenco dance workshop at Iloilo National High School (2 hours: 9:30 am – 11:30 am)

10:00 - Feria Española at Hotel del Rio

11:00 - Seminar on Wine (part 1) at Hotel del Rio

3:00 pm - Matinee Velada at the CAP Auditorium for students

• Seminar on Wine (part 2) at H otel del Rio
• Demo on Spanish cooking at Hotel del Rio

7:00 - Noche de Gala at the CAP Bldg. Auditorium
Featured Artists: Centro Flamenco, USA Troubadours and Kawilihan USA Dance Troupe

- Speeches of Mayor Treñas and Sen. Drilon

9:30 - Appreciation dinner for Organizers and Volunteers

July 1, 2005

- Heritage Tour of Centro Flamenco
- Spanish Film Fest, mall or University of San Agustin
- Departure of Spanish delegation for Cebu

For information and ticket sales, contact the Dept. of Tourism VI at tel. (033) 3375411 or 3350245

(from The News Today Info Online)

wecky

June 19th, 2005, 02:51 AM

AMOSUP inaugurates hospital in Iloilo

ILOILO City – Good news to all AMOSUP (Associated Marine Officers’ and Seamen Union of the Philippines) members! A hospital that will cater to you and your dependents will soon open in Iloilo City.

On June 30, 2005, after 16 months of construction, the hospital on Oñate St., Mandurriao, Iloilo City will be blessed and inaugurated by no less than Her Excellency Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, the President of the Republic of the Philippines; Iloilo Gov. Niel Tupas; Iloilo City Cong. Raul Gonzalez Jr.; and Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas.

Other top national and local officials are also attending the ceremonies.
AMOSUP, which boasts of an estimated 55,000 members all over the country, is the trade union of Filipino ocean-going seafarers. Its president is Capt. Gregorio S. Oca.

The Iloilo hospital is AMOSUP’s third in the country. The other two are located in Intramuros, Manila and Mandaue, Cebu.

Members and allottees / dependents are invited to attend the inauguration and blessing ceremonies.

For more details, please contact Pepi Santos at 320-98-63 or 09175370174.

sandrin

June 19th, 2005, 03:55 AM

Si, Si !!!! Amigas y Amigos, hablamos/escribamos(?) en Espanol en la semana Junio 29-30 para el celebracion. :D

sugarboy

June 19th, 2005, 07:15 AM

si sandrin, de hoy y adelante escribamos en espanol! :)

blueguy

June 19th, 2005, 06:30 PM

Come to Iloilo to see why Spain chose it as its site for the Filipino-Spain Friendship Day...

You have to see where prominent poeple live...the old Spanish Ancestral Houses...

ThisFire

June 19th, 2005, 06:40 PM

ThisFire

June 19th, 2005, 06:44 PM

hola sandrin y sugarboy, hablas espanol? tomo el curso durante tus dias de escuela? i que increible ! i vamos a hablar!

sandrin

June 19th, 2005, 07:11 PM

Virtute

June 19th, 2005, 09:18 PM

hablo espanol poquito pero comprendo mas :D, studio espanol en el secondario high school y collegio en las Filipinas. La Filipino lingua-franca contenie muchos idiomas espanol. Necesito a practicar mas.
La programa en la television hablas rapido, no me todos conosco.

No me sigurado/garantisado estas entiende me decir, por pavor....;)

Buenisimo! Me da gusto que todavia hayan algunas personas que hablan español. Es que somos Ilonggos y estamos orgullosos de nuestra herencia española. :cheers: Pero tambien cuidado que hayan otros aqui que no entiende lo que estamos hablando asi que parecemos exclusivos.

wecky

June 19th, 2005, 10:25 PM

wow ... nice to see everyone speaking Spanish here .. (sandrin, sugarboy, ThisFire and Virtute) ... I can understand well the writings but don't know how to formulate my own Spanish wordings .. hehehe .. keep on posting guys. I love to read all your writings ... I just missed my old folks at times by reading all these stuffs ... they mostly utter Spanish words especially when they are mad at us ... i still got some few bits of spanish .. only it's more on "bad" swearings ... you should hear most of the Ilonggos swear ... it's mostly of that bloody Spanish words (huh!).

Again, cheers to all .. looking forward for this great event that will takes place in Iloilo City this end week of June ... Iloilo City will never be named as "La Muy Leal Y Noble Cuidad de Iloilo" for nothing. And I think Iloilo City will remain forever noble as long as it exists.

wecky

June 19th, 2005, 10:27 PM

Medicus- PPTS opens in Iloilo

ILOILO City -- Medicus–Philippine Paramedical and Technical School (PPTS) is now open to provide quality nursing education and health care training to people who aspire to work abroad, specially in the United States.

It is by no means the answer to the growing demands of Filipinos for the kind of education that is comprehensive, effective and helpful in enriching Filipino way of life and in seeking for better and faster working opportunities abroad.

Medicus-PPTS offers a two-year ladderized nursing courses from 15 months Practical/Vocational Nursing (P/VN) to 24 months Applied Science in Nursing (ASN), with a Curriculum patterned after an accredited nursing school in the USA. So, assuming that a student chooses to stop after 15 months, he is secured to be a Practical Nurse for he/she still has a vocation to practice. He may now challenge the NCLEX-PN.

The school’s affiliation with the Educational Resources, Incorporated (ERI), allows students to review for the NCLEX online, which starts from their first day of school all the way to the NCLEX. Only one-time payment is required and the students could avail of the succeeding reviews, absolutely free until they pass the exam.

The National Association for Practical Nurse Education and Service, Inc. (NAPNES) USA salute the Philippine Paramedical and Technical School not only for being the very first LPN School in the entire country, but for benchmarking the standards that all future programs of the our country’s education will have to meet.

The association, through Helen Larsen, JD, BS, LPN, In-House Counsel/Executive Director of NAPNES USA, commended Engr. Arturo Lacuesta, Founder/Chairman of the Board-PPTS, Jorge Marques, President of PPTS-Davao, Dr. Vicente Villareal, President of the newly opened Medicus-PPTS Iloilo, and Jake Marques, President of the soon to open PPTS-Cebu for offering the Practical Nursing program.

“They are true pioneers, brave souls and completely dedicated to making your place in the Philippines a shining example. We welcome the Philippine Paramedical and Technical School as an agency member of NAPNES and we look forward to true progress of our level of nurses across international lines,” Larsen added.

Moreover, Gregory T. Howard, President of the National Federation of Licensed Practical Nurses (NFLPN) greeted the students on their first day of class, congratulating them in becoming a part of one of the prestigious nursing schools in the country.

As noted, when he saw PPTS-Davao graduates during their Graduation Ceremony last September 25, 2004 in which Howard was the graduation speaker, he wrote a letter addressed to the President of the Republic of the Philippines, through the office of the City Mayor of Davao, congratulating PPTS for producing practical nurses who have gone through a curriculum which far exceeds the US standards.

The relationship between the school and the students does not end after graduation. Medicus-PPTS will assist its qualified graduates in linking with international medical, health and technical institutions as a venue for gainful employment.

In addition, Medicus-PPTS graduates would have an easier way of fulfilling their dream to work in the U.S. since the school is an accepted agency member of the biggest international institutions in the U.S., namely: National League for Nursing (NLN), National Federation of Licensed Practical Nurses (NFLPN) and National Association of Practical Nursing Education Services (NAPNES). It is also a subsidiary of VILLAC Healthcare Educational Systems, U.S.A.

Although the first batch of students already started their career at Medicus-PPTS, the school is still accepting individuals who would like to enroll for the second batch. Interested parties may come anytime. You will be entertained immediately with course orientations held everyday. The school is accessibly located at Masonic Temple Building, Plaza Libertad, J. M. Basa Street, Iloilo City. For more information, one may contact the administration by calling 335-8018/ 509-9320 or texting (0919)5139651 and (0916)7692438.

(from Panay News Online)

sandrin

June 19th, 2005, 10:28 PM

muchos gracias por te intiende amigo virtute :D
Necesito leer el libro espanol otra vez, recuerdo que aprenda en la eskuela. pero no necesito aliste en la instituto de lenguahe espanol.

yo estoy, tu estas, el/ella esta, nosotros (somos) estamos, vosotros (son) estais, ellos/ellas estan :D :D .... (hehe no sigurado que es correcto)

wecky

June 19th, 2005, 10:44 PM

Come to Iloilo to see why Spain chose it as its site for the Filipino-Spain Friendship Day...

You have to see where prominent poeple live...the old Spanish Ancestral Houses...

I agree with you van1975 ... come and visit ILOILO to see old Spanish mansions still existing and in place ... Jaro (one of the five districts of Iloilo City... formerly considered as Jaro City in early years, too) is considered to be the first millionaire's lane in the Philippines for nothing without all those lovely mansions lining its streetside ... here is one the few pics of Iloilo Mansions:

http://www.iloilo.net/dot/r6/ilopic09.jpg

wecky

June 19th, 2005, 11:37 PM

Country club gears for 8th Bamboo Tee

* Close to 400 golfers from Metro Manila, Visayas and Mindanao as well as balikbayans will play as partners of the club members

THE Iloilo Golf and Country Club (IGCCI) in Sta. Barbara, in preparation for its centennial celebration in 2007, will hold the 8th edition of the Bamboo Tee Invitational, a member/guest invitational golf tournament, on March 11 to 13.

The Club's signature major tournament is considered to be the biggest golfing event of the year.

IGCCI said close to 400 golfers from Metro Manila, Visayas and Mindanao as well as balikbayans will play as partners of the club members.

This will give Ilonggos the chance to promote the province as an attractive and vibrant destination not only for golf but also for business and tourism, the Club added.

Golf items will be given to each participant aside from the valuable items to be distributed during the tournament cocktail on March 12 at the clubhouse and the awarding tournament at Hotel del Rio on March 13.

The event's major sponsors are Smart Telecommunications and Electronics Philippines Corp. (Samsung).

(from Sunstar Iloilo News Online)

Iloilo Golf Course - 18-hole, 35 hectares, the oldest in the Philippines built in 1907 by a group of Scot, English and American expatriates working in Iloilo City business. The key pioneers were the Scots who were working on the Panay Railway System.

(from: http://www.geocities.com/irongirongph/page4/)

http://www.iloilo.net/dot/r6/ilopic07.jpg

wecky

June 20th, 2005, 12:04 AM

Florete is Ninoy awardee for nationalism

Dr. Rogelio M. Florete, DBM (hc), the Chairman/President of the Florete Group of Companies, joins a select group of individuals chosen as this year’s awardees of the prestigious 2005 Benigno S. Aquino, Jr. for Nationalism Awards.

The Benigno S. Aquino, Jr. Award for Nationalism is bestowed upon individuals who embody the strong spirit of nationalism like the national hero.

The award is given to the alumni of the Federation of Catholic School Alumni/ae Association (FECASAA) to recognize the country’s leaders whose spirit of nationalism continue to burn like a beacon of inspiration to the youth today.

Dr. Florete’s acid test for nationalism was in 1986 during the People Power at EDSA. From Day 1 up to the climax of the revolution, he placed all his bets for the Filipino people by airing over all the provincial stations of Bombo Radyo Philippines the events as they actually happened in Metro Manila.

This he did by staying on with his people at the flagship station (Bombo Radyo Iloilo) while he sent reinforcements to the Makati News Bureau even as the uncertainty of the events were still unfolding.

Notwithstanding the armed soldiers that had been deployed at the station’s premises as they awaited for the orders to take over the radio station, Dr. Florete made the “judgement call” of his life, his family, and the thousands under his employ in his various corporations. These events had been documented in the People Power Book.

Dr. Florete, upon receiving the letter of the notice for the Benigno S. Aquino, Jr. award for nationalism, said, “This award for nationalism in the name of our national hero, I humbly accept and share with all the members of my family, my officers and men who stayed by my side during those uncertain hours when the fate of our country hang in the balance. They, too, are tested nationalists who are ready to give everything for the sake of our people’s freedom and democracy.”

Since his EDSA days, Dr. Florete as Chairman/President of the Florete Group of Companies; has shown the way to lead and to survive the harsh economic environment by his unwavering faith in the Filipino with whom Ninoy had always believed to be worth dying for.

Putting your money where your heart is also requires a strong spirit of nationalism as one grapples with the inherent and stressful challenges of managing a company during this troubled times and has shown resiliency to absorb economic shocks brought about by the lingering economic crisis.

The awarding ceremony of the 2005 Benigno S. Aquino, Jr. Awards for Nationalism will be held on June 24, 2005 at the Rizal Hall of the Malacañang Palace with Her Excellency President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo as guest of honor and with former President Corazon C. Aquino in attendance.

Dr. Florete was cited as an outstanding alumnus of the University of San Agustin, Iloilo City. He was also conferred by the University with the Honorary Degree of Doctor of Business Management.

The other awardees are Judy Araneta Roxas of Assumption College, Florence Z. Regalado of San Beda College, Ramon R. del Rosario, Jr. of De la Salle University and June Keithley Castro of St. Paul College of Quezon City.

The shortlist of past awardees of this relatively young but distinguished citation that started only in 2003 includes the legendary Namfrel Chairman Jose Concepcion, Jr. from De La Salle University, Cecelia Guidote-Alvarez of St. Paul College and Teresita Baltazar, product of Assumption College.

As the Captain of the Florete Group of Companies, it is during his watch as President/CEO that Bombo Radyo Philippines with 43 AM and FM radio stations became No.1 Radio Network in the Country.

Queen City Development Bank, with branches in major capitals in our country, has devoted 70% of its loan portfolio to small and medium entrepreneurs now considered the engine of growth by our country. It has consistently earned high ratings in its operation conducted by the Banko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) reflecting good governance and stability.

(from Panay News Online)

chymera00

June 20th, 2005, 06:23 AM

cool ... usted puebla sabe hablar español? ¡una que coincidencia! ¡Nos deja hablar español de ahora encendido

I suck :(

wecky

June 20th, 2005, 04:03 PM

Monday, June 20, 2005
The region's best pasalubongs at Intramuros

THE region's pasalubong business is growing thanks to its reputation that spread by word of mouth.

Pasalubong food items are displayed in the Kabugana-an showcase of Western Visayas in Intramuros, Manila until June 28.

Kabugana-an is one of the showcases under The Best of the Regions in Intramuros themed, "Ginintuang Pamana: Arts, History and Culture."

Iloilo has an array of food items like biscocho, barquillos, pulceras, principe, bañadas, ugoy-uyoy and pacencia. Bacolod has piaya and other mouth-watering pastry.

Iloilo and Negros share the tradition of baking pastry, biscuits and other food items that are often sweet. This is not a surprise because sugar is grown in these provinces.

Fresh fish and other marine products are sold and processed in Capiz province and some northern Iloilo towns. The abundance of fishery products built a lucrative industry on bottling and preserving them.

Aklan has processed meat products and some food items that are now popular pasalubong items.

Antique, because of its muscovado sugar industry, produces sweets like bandi and other candies.

Guimaras, the youngest province in Western Visayas, is known for its mango industry. Aside from sending fresh mangoes for export, Guimaras also produces mango products like dried slices of mango pulp, jams, spreads and other preserves.

In Western Visayas, the pasalubong business is a family venture, not because it is small-scale but as a matter of pride. Families closely guard their recipes of barquillos and biscocho, among others. Each pasalubong business claims that its products are the best in town.

There is no point of comparison really, even if there's tasting test. Each family has its own unique taste and presentation of food items. Each family has its own interesting story how they have started the business, and often this is linked to providence.

Panaderia de Molo, for example, has its origins when Molo church was constructed being constructed and was using egg white to bind its walls. The discarded egg yolk were given to women who used them to bake pastry, breads and biscuits.

Deocampo's Barquillos in Jaro started baking for communion host used in Jaro Church. But the family decided to expand the products to flat, thin bread sweet biscuits that were later rolled to become barquillos.

Each pasalubong item has a story and buyers of the food items are encouraged to discover a bit of their sweet history. (PR)

(from Sunstar Iloilo News Online)

wecky

June 20th, 2005, 04:21 PM

Wedding bells in Iloilo

First posted 07:49pm (Mla time) June 04, 2005
By Alex Vergara
Inquirer News Service

Editor's Note: Published on page E1 of the June 5, 2005 issue of the Philippine Daily Inquirer.

VETERAN fashion designer Frederick Peralta recently shared the stage with nine Iloilo-based designers in "Wedding Rituals," a bridal fashion show at the fountain area of Robinsons Place Iloilo.

The afternoon event kicked off the mall's ongoing bridal fair, which ends June 11. Aside from featuring the province's best designers, "Wedding Rituals" is also a venue for engaged couples to choose the best hotels, caterers, photographers, florists, gift shops, real-estate companies and even gyms to help them during the big day and beyond.

Spearheading the affair were mall manager Ditas Taleon and Joseph Sian, Robinsons Visayas group GM. Inquirer's society columnist Maurice Arcache, also an Ilonggo from Bacolod, and Iloilo designer Angelette Borja-Ragus cut the ribbon.

Peralta, through his mom, also traces his roots to Iloilo. He spent his early childhood in the province before moving with his family to Manila when he was 7.

The designer combined his trademark penchant for embellishment with a dash of theatrics to come up with a 13-piece collection consisting of bridal gowns (and a suit!) for every imaginable mood, body type and ethnicity. He also showed a couple of men's suits and barongs fashioned from Indian silk.

Fit for a princess

Peralta's Chinese-inspired wedding gown made of beige and black alaskin, for instance, came with an obi sash and tasseled headdress fit for an empress. Another piece replete with Orientalia had floor-length bell sleeves in white organdy worn over a mustard gold shift gown made of shantung silk. As if the gown's over-the-top proportions weren't enough, the designer further embellished the white overlay with gold embroidery.

He also offered women options. Those who can't see themselves wearing a dress can go for a mannish off-white suit made of Mikado silk and embellished with lace beadwork in geometric patterns. The suit consisted of a cropped jacket and slim cigarette pants.

On the opposite end of the fashion spectrum, the coquettish bride can go for a pouf and sleeveless mini dress with a decolletage neckline. Peralta also provided options for full-figured women via a strapless, scene-stealing trapeze gown in soft, white leather accented with huge zebra prints made of taupe velvet. Hopefully, those wearing it won't be mistaken by guests for a sofa.

Peralta also drew inspiration from the 1950s to fashion classic pieces such as the empire-cut gown with a detachable train made of Mikado silk. A pair of reversed flaps on the bodice further emphasized the model's lovely face.

A strapless, serpentine number flatters the bride with the classic hour-glass figure. The designer wisely confined embellishments on the skirt, which had mini ruffles and beaded lace appliqu‚ in paisley shapes.

Like his Ilonggo colleagues, Peralta had to rely on the region's local talents, which he said, to his surprise, were driven, fast learners and a diverse lot. In fact, he even convinced several female mannequins to try their luck in Manila either as ramp and commercial models or beauty contestants.

In lieu of canned music, Peralta opted for love songs sung by members of the University of San Agustin Troubadours. Manila-based Ilonggo makeup artist Koala (yes, like Madonna, he can do without a last name) and leading florist Robert Blancaflor helped the designer achieve his vision. Peralta later took a bow wearing an all-white outfit.

Noteworthy talents

A number of Iloilo designers were able to hold their own on the ramp in terms of ideas and workmanship. Among the more noteworthy local talents that night were Bo Parcon, Don Protasio, Jaki Penalosa, Nonoy Jaranilla and 63-year-old Angellette Borja-Ragus.
Parcon presented a classic three-piece ensemble consisting of a shrug, corset and a floaty, three-layered tulle skirt. The model later removed the shrug, which was actually made of strips of white grosgrain ribbons, to reveal a beaded corset.

At first glance, Protasio seemed to have run out of funds as he opted for a cheap kind of cotton fabric in a dark shade of mocha to fashion his Grecian-inspired number consisting of a series of pleats.

He avoided the usual chiffon, he said, because he didn't want such a luxurious fabric to detract from his vision of a barrio lass in a modified "Maria Clara." Instead of shiny embellishments, he opted for faux pearls and a matte look. Even the model was a bit on the hefty side, in keeping perhaps with the designer's statement.

Radical idea

At 63, Borja-Ragus didn't let her advanced years hamper her from coming up with one of the evening's most radical ideas: a corset fashioned from filmy strips of bamboo paired with an A-line skirt made from organza and embellished with beads and bamboo shavings in the shape of paisleys. The same shavings lined the corset.

Despite being made from such a stiff material, the corset managed to achieve an illusion of shape since part of the skirt was also fashioned from bamboo. The designer junked pi¤a in favor of organza because it was stiff enough as a canvass for bamboo shavings.

Penalosa's fitted piece, which was fashioned from pi¤a and embellished with pearls, was noteworthy for its elegance, wearabilty and versatility. The bride need not slip into a reception dress, as she can later do away with the wrap and emerge in a virtually new outfit.

The same qualities, however, were absent in Mandy Salcedo's hodgepodge of a piece that borrowed silhouettes from the 1950s and tacky excesses of the 1980s.

As if the layered and beaded serpentine skirt that surprisingly fell short wasn't enough, the designer even included a bustle for good measure. Never mind the diaphanous hoodie, but a sheer bodice with nothing but clamshells for a bra top looked simply too much even for the most brazen soul going about a most avant-garde ritual.

(from Inquirer Online)

sugarboy

June 20th, 2005, 05:50 PM

Here's something I culled from the archives of the Visayan Daily Star (Bacolod's leading local daily). Article was published in the early part of 2001. Quite apt for the upcoming Filipino-Spanish fest in Iloilo.

Lengua de Trapo

A large part of Ilonggo culture is rooted in its language. Owing it to a
highly pervasive Spanish influence, close to half of the vocabulary in the Ilonggo dialect consists of Spanish words or its derivations. Common objects, especially those centered around the dining table and kitchen
are called by its Spanish name. Mesa, cuchara, tenedor, plato, all of these
are daily reminders of how the Spanish language has helped shape Ilonggo culture.

Here is my story...

Fancying a dinner buffet at one of Bacolod's pick restaurants, my wife and I
found ourselves in a "Standing Room Only" situation owing to the resto's popular Wednesday evening treat. Due to the usual crowd of gourmands on this set evening, we were both ushered into a small function room with a few tables. It was in the middle of our meal when about six other diners came
in to the function room to occupy the adjacent table.

As these people began to talk and ramble about the rise and fall of sugar
prices (what a boring conversation topic!), one of these hacendero types began to signal the rest of his company about the presence of other ears who were not privy to their conversation. In this case, my wife and I were obviously uninvited listeners to whatever fate they had to cast about the sugar industry. The fellow's signal was classic. "?Hay moros en la costa!", he
exclaimed, yet somewhat delivered in a hushed tone. That is to literally say, "There are Moors on the coast!". Figuratively, this cliche would often mean that unwelcome ears are listening in on some
confidential conversation.

I should know this. We say the same thing at home when we don't want the
helpers to latch on to our topics over dinner. At this point in time our custom over the dinner table is to start switching to "lengua de trapo" and carry on with the discussion. Nope, "lengua de trapo" is not some new gourmet recipe in the fashion of estofado or lengua con champignon. Lengua de trapo if I may say is merely the conversational Spanish bereft of all the
stuffiness of properly conjugating the verbs in their proper tenses. Lengua de trapo if I may say, is the Filipino's manner of speaking simple Spanish with an Ilonggo accent (or a Tagalog slur when spoken in Luzon).

Going back to that restaurant scene, I thought that the hacendero types would start conversing in Spanish...but they didn't! In my mind, I was already retorting, "?Vendemos esta gente!", which is to say "Let's sell off these folk!". After all, don't we usually say that if a person doesn't understand a certain language he could be 'sold off' without his knowing it? I have to say I was a bit dissapointed that Spanish conversation did not ensue among our fellow diners after the warning shot went off.

'Tis but a pity that we hardly speak Spanish nowadays. Not even in the crude form known as lengua de trapo. Interestingly, National Artist Nick Joaquin's "Portrait of an Artist as a Filipino" was staged a few months ago in Manila in three versions. Tagalog, English, and Spanish...or, should I say lengua de trapo?

Contrary to what others might have thought about Spanish not being required
curriculum in college nowadays, there is a pressing need to relearn this European language for many reasons. Practicality is one of them. With a basic knowledge of Spanish vocabulary, one can find himself in the middle
of Europe, even in a non-Spanish speaking country and still cull a substantial
amount of information written or spoken in French, Italian, or most recently the newfangled Esperanto.

One look at the multilingual travel brochures and you'll find in the cross-translations that the verbs are not far from one another. The same holds true with the rest of the vocabulary. Furthermore, a deeper look at how Spanish words were derived will show you that these aren't all too far
from Latin.

For the moment, words and vocabulary will suffice if more of us start to
relearn Spanish. Grammar and intonation can follow suit. Come to think of it, intonation is relative depending on which part of the globe you're speaking Spanish. I remember some years back in the Andulusian town of Ronda where our gang of students from London met up with other visitors over
churros con chocolate. It was a funny gathering in the sense that our breakfast group was composed of a native Andalusian, a Mexican, two Colombians, a friend from Trinidad and Tobago, an American
from Michigan who learned his Spanish at a missions school, plus myself. For
about two hours, all of us strained our hearing as we individually had to decipher what the other was saying.

To put it bluntly, you can speak the same language but mixed accents never mix! Nevertheless, practicality seems to be the order of the day. You'll never know when your Spanish will come in handy. Not too long ago, a friend from Talisay invited me over to his house to view two old paintings by Catalunian artists Rafols Casamada and a certain R. Benet. With some research through his cousin in Barcelona, I was provided with a brief rundown of these artists'
awards and achievements. These being written in Spanish, I took out whatever rusty command I had of the language to translate it and determine that the paintings in his possession were worth a fortune.

But on the lighter side, the same command of the Castillan language is good for plain leisure conversation. Another friend from Talisay, Pons Balcells is good at this. Owe it to the fact that Spanish is the native tongue in his home and that Pons is an ever enthusiastic conversationalist, my lengua de trapo gets elevated a notch higher as Pons' fluency rubs off on me while talking about something we have in common - experiences at the Costa del Sol and Puerto Banus.

Given the fact that language is perfected with practice, constant conversationin Spanish will do people a lot of good. People can't talk behind your back and, at the very least, the next time someone exclaims "?Hay moros en la costa!", even a minimal amount of lengua de trapo ensues. :)

wecky

June 20th, 2005, 11:21 PM

thanks for the article, Sugarboy ... wish they'll bring back Spanish subject in the curricula ... there's still school/schools here in Iloilo requiring Spanish as their prerequisite subject ... St Paul's University of Iloilo is one of them. The only Spanish poem I've known is Mi Ultimo Adios of Rizal .. way back in college days pa.

wecky

June 20th, 2005, 11:25 PM

City hall workers to receive benefits

Employees at the city hall are grateful. Additional benefits are coming their way even though the monetization of their leave credits was approved just recently.

During the flag ceremony at city hall yesterday, City Budget Officer Ninda Atinado announced the city government is working out to give education assistance to employees at P1,000.

“Bisan paano makabulig man ini sa ila,” Atinado told Panay News.

Atinado said the fund for the education assistance would come from the city’s Supplemental Budget No. 2 that was already endorsed to the City Council,” she said.

Lately, the monetization of their leave credits was approved by the City Council chargeable from the Supplemental Budget No.1 of the Iloilo City government.

The Supplemental Budget No.1 appropriated some P9.5 million for personnel benefits.

City hall employees with salary grades ranging from 1 to 26 shall receive the additional benefit.

Early this year, city hall employees grumbled over their benefits that were not provided by the city government.

Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Assistant Regional Director Alfonso Bedonia said, “The city government exceeded almost P20 million on its personal services” -- the reason why city hall employees were not given additional benefits (especially the monetization of leave credits).

Accordingly, the city government also cannot fill-up vacant positions and cannot create new positions either.

The local government code only allows 45 percent on personal services for highly urbanized cities.

“This is the reason why employees at the city hall were deprived of their additional benefits from the city government,” Bedonia said.

Recently, Mayor Jerry Treñas, as the National President of the League of Cities of the Philippines (LCP), requested DBM Secretary Emilia Boncodin that the monetization of leave credits be excluded on the computation of the personal services share.
Treñas said the DBM approved the LCP request.

Also, Treñas said the non-inclusion of monetization to the personal services is applicable to the entire local government unit in the country.

(from Panay News Online)

wecky

June 20th, 2005, 11:38 PM

Palawan part of West Visayas by August

First posted 11:05pm (Mla time) June 20, 2005
By Nestor P. Burgos Jr.
Inquirer News Service

ILOILO CITY-The turnover of Palawan and Puerto Princesa City from Southern Tagalog to Western Visayas will be completed by August, according to the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG).

Evelyn Trompeta, DILG director for Western Visayas, said the DILG regional offices in the two regions are coordinating with their Regional Development Councils (RDCs) on the implementation of Executive Order 429.

The EO, signed by President Macapagal-Arroyo early this month, mandated the transfer of Palawan and Puerto Princesa City from Southern Tagalog to Western Visayas to "accelerate the effective administration of field and public services."

Trompeta said the inventory and turnover of assets and personnel of Palawan would be completed by the first week of July, while the transfer of finances was expected in August.

Western Visayas governors have welcomed the inclusion of Palawan and Puerto Princesa City in the region, saying this will boost the region's income
and tourism industry.

Antique Gov. Salvacion Zaldivar-Perez, RDC chair, said because of the transfer, Western Visayas now hosts two major tourist destinations, Palawan and Boracay Island.

(from Inquirer Online)

wecky

June 20th, 2005, 11:44 PM

Masskara festival to open
best of Western Visayas in Intramuros

The colorful Masskara Festival in Bacolod will usher the grand opening of “Philippines’ Best 2005 Kabugana-an sang Western Visayas” regional showcase of Clamshell I, Intramuros on Friday.

Tourism Secretary Joseph Ace Durano, together with Senate president Franklin Drilon and Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago, will grace the opening ceremonies.

They will be joined by the members of the diplomatic corps and officials from the local government of the region.

Region VI (Iloilo, Guimaras, Antique, Aklan, Capiz and Negros Occidental), hone of the world-famous island resort-Boracay and the Miag-ao Church, a national landmark that is included in the UNESCO World Heritage list, will take the spotlight in featuring the region’s cultural heritage from June 14-28, 2005.

The Bacolod City day, which falls on the opening schedule, will dazzle the crowd with an array of the city’s well-known festivals like the Masskara, the Teatro Amorseko (mud pack festival where the participants are covered with mud believed to be good in smoothening the skin) and the Babaylan (reenactment of the Babaylan tribe rituals).

Daily craft demonstration from the different provinces of the region as well as cultural shows and travel trade fair will feast the eyes of all the visitors who will come to the exhibit.

For the food lovers, a variety of the region’s best delicacies such as bartillos, biscocho, panadera baking products and piyaya that are among the best choice pasalubong from the region can be bought from Clamshell I during the period.

”Philippines’ Best 2005” at Intramuros is open every day from 10 am until 12 midnight, except Mondays when it opens at 4 pm to 12 midnight. Admission is free.

(from Panay News Online)

wecky

June 21st, 2005, 12:02 AM

Monday, June 20, 2005
We survived malaria
By Reynan G. Sularan

(The Palawan's Baragatan Festival 10-Mile Run Coverage)

Notice: Palawan is a clean and green long island. It has many tourist spots you could possibly enjoy staying forever.I really don't know if it is that scary in the mountainous area but as much as possible; kill your joy if you are a nature tripper. We have been there and we admit we have been bloodsucked by the Palawan mosquitoes and yet we survived Malaria.

The invitation

Almost a month before the malaria scare exploded in the Province of Palawan, we were already invited by Governor Joel T. Reyes to their 2nd Baragatan Festival. Through sports organizer Boyet Senen Rentoy, the middle age Governor tasked the Professional Sports Organizer Team (Prosports) president to handle the biggest sports and fitness event of the festival, the Governor's Cup 10-Miles Run.

The preparation

Rentoy has a store branch (Faforma Boutique) in the province, which is famous for its underground river. Now with more than two years of business there, he found out that there is at most twice a year running race in the sports tourism capital of the Philippines.

In two years time, as a sportsman as he is, he had acquainted with Palawan's sports figure like Ernie Ledesma, former Milo Marathon finisher and Sunshine Cabiguen, Palawan Provincial Sports Coordinator. With the same interest, the threesome join forces to proposed a sports event that will reconcile with Baragatan Festival.

And now that the festival is gaining popularity, the sports challenge has step to a higher level. The Governor's Cup 10-Miles Run was born.

The Iloilo team

The Iloilo force was selected through their credentials and performance. With the threat that Palawan athlete was training rigidly, the pressure now is on Iloilo team to battle against their best marathoner. The Iloilo team was composed of the city best runners and fast rising marathoner like Abraham Garces, Tenny Limbaga, Mark Ong, Razen Lee, and Rex Beloso. Garces was the Adlaw Sang Iloilo 10K champion while Limbaga Guimaras bet, at 45, still rule the age group category despite. Ong is one of the Adlaw Sang Iloilo 10K Run top ten finisher while Lee, a Winners Gym fitness instructor and body builder, is still one of Iloilo's watched tri-athlete and Beloso, a finisher of Bago City 21K Tri-Mountain Challenge.

The trip

We would like to thank the Milagrosa Shipping Lines for giving us 50 percent discount round trip to the place famous of El Nido beach. We took the 7 p.m. trip and I can see the excitement and thrill of all first-timer to Palawan delegates including me. For after barely two hours of adrenaline rush entry to the gateway of passenger terminal ship (not to mention our hefty baggage), we finally took our first step in the entrance to what they call the "miracle ship". We were couched on the top deck of the ship where we met a very charming and good-looking girl Neneng (not her real name). I say it is so scary at night especially when you sneak outside the window. Errrrrr, it is totally dark as if the only color of the world is black. I feel like it is better to sleep and wait for the ship to stop its engine.

Anyway, there was a stop over at Cuyo Island, a municipality of Palawan, where we took a short visit to their municipal hall and a 10-minutes conversation with Mayor Andrew Ong's secretary. Then, we took a night to reach the place we only imagined while we are on the ship. And exactly 8:30 am of Wednesday, we reached Puerto Princesa City (PPC), the capital city of Palawan. Our arrival will be my first time to be greeted with live band (like that of the drum corps band) and man, their port is clean with no squatter houses around only that they are improvised.

The first day in Palawan

Of course, while we are on the ship, there is a news over the ship's semi-blurred television set that the Palawan is the Philippines malaria hotspot. And who will be not alarmed of that, now that we are all headed there. Plus, the place, they say, we will be staying was somewhere near the shrubby and slummy area of Sta. Monica, Palawan. Now, what we are going to do first, was to trim the creepy and thicky grasses and burn it to smoke the area. Then, we bathe the rest house to its very nooky area and presto, mosquitoes away. Our home is malaria free day and night with Razen' s home made "katol" and I really have no time to ask for its ingredients.

The radio interview

A certain Ivan came to our headquarters (Faforma Boutique, Palawan branch) shortly after our arrival. And little did we know that this chubby round face guy with deep voice is actually our ticket to a radio interview. Ivan is a dubber, doing a radio voice over and one of the PROSPORTS active members in Palawan. At the DYPR, a top radio station in PPC, we met the two of their best radio commentators-Richard Rebote, who happened to be an Ilonggo, and his partner Danny. Ehem, test mic one, two. Ahh, this is how the radio station looks pala! I mean, I been to radio stations before but I never been interviewed inside the actual radio room. Ivan lamented after the interview that we are all like "natural" as if we do have interviews before.

The jog to Mitra house

The next day, while everybody is gearing for two-hour non-stop jogging, I have other plans. Since I am not a full pledged runner, I joined them but riding on a mountain bike. And to think that it is fair, they jog and I bike from the "resthouse" to PPC Sports Complex to Sta. Monica Highway passing the Baker's Hill up to the famous panoramic Mitra House. The ancestral home of Mitra Clan, where his horses are sheltered, is found at the top of the hilly side of Sta. Monica. At the top front, we could view the controversial Dos Palmas Resort and on our back we could see the highest peak of Palawan. Inside the house, we met Nong Ponso, the maintenance and caretaker of the house. For a moment of recording the scenic view in our brain and while taking a short conversation with the housekeeper, we seem to forget that there is an event for the following day.

The courtesy call with Gov. Reyes

Right after the radio interview, we all feel like an instant celebrity. For this time we will meet the Palawan Governor Joel T. Reyes is very casual in person. He is tall, with medium body built, and has very good sense of humor. At first, there was silence as if everybody was afraid to utter a word except for our spoke person Rentoy. He introduced Garces and from out of nowhere the Governor threw an icebreaker joke"Bagalan mo lang ha, wag mong iwanan yung mga taga-Palawan. Ako mabilis lang pag andyan misis ko". And everybody bursted with laughter.

The most awaited race event

I witnessed how the champion was made. For several days spending with Garces, Limbaga, Lee and Ong, I observe closely their daily routine, their diet and their lifestyle. Of them, it was Garces who flaunted a winning from. Garces is a man with broad shoulder, firm and fully-grown thighs and long legs (kag baog nga kuko). I picture him like a national champion in the making. I witness how he worked out for his speed and resistance. And when the race proper came, the Guimbal runner fought with all courage against some Palawan's best runners and marathoners to secure the Baragatan Festival Governor's Cup 10-Miles Run tilt in PPC, Palawan last June 04, 2005.

Meanwhile, the rest of Iloilo bets had occupied the top ten spot. Mark Ong, Adlaw Sang Iloilo 10K Run top ten finisher placed seventh with 1:05:14 while Tenny Limbaga, Guimaras pride also supported by Governor JC Rahman Nava, at the age of 50 still enter the nine berth with1: 08:59. Razen Lee of Winners Gym occupied the eighth place of the 10K Run Age Category while Rex Beloso stand as a race official.

The Iloilo delegation was brought to Palawan by the Prosports headed by Boyet Rentoy through the support of Milagrosa Shipping Lines, Winners Gym and Faforma Boutique. The race is also possible with the cooperation of Ernie Ledesma and Sunshine Cabiguen, Palawan Provincial Sports Coordinators and Ms. Love Negosa, Prosports Palawan Coordinator. The biggest sports event of the festival is assisted by the Palawan Rescue and Emergency Network, Palawan Traffic Management Group, Rotaract, Bodega Site Crew and Governor Joel T. Reyes.

The chill at the crocodile farm

We promised not to go home without visiting the scaly and scary crocodiles in the Crocodile Farm and Natures Park. At exactly, 1:30 pm, we enter the entrance of the exhibit. The petite tour guide greeted us in the entrance when at the same moment; the rain poured and the electricity went dead. Wearing an all smile, she introduced us to Rio, the biggest crocodile ever lived in the Philippines. She was caught after she killed a fisherman. Rio was brought to the farm to be treated normal but she died after two months. We missed the film showing (kay brownout) and the documentation. But the fun continues when we see the real and alive crocodiles. Through the help of the caretaker, we even get the chance to touch its skin and body only that it is a baby crocodile. We trailed the Nature Park then where we met the wild birds, cats, monkeys and other land mammals looking puzzled and bored in the cage. A sad story: we end up in a cottage in the middle of the park waiting for the rain to stop.

Going home (We survived Malaria)

I admit the trip back to Iloilo was a disaster for me. Though our deck is much better, much comfortable and less populated compared to our first trip; the ship was, this time, smaller. And when the engine starts, the worst begin. I only enjoyed a five minutes comfort. After that, my brain, my nerves and my digestive system swing. Yes, it is wavy (as in big waves). I thought sleeping would be an alternative to forget that I am on the ship but it was no used. I prefer texting will be my best alternative of boredom and dizziness but my eyes told my brain that I am twisted. Now, here is the climax of the story. Somewhere in a place I really don't know and I really have no idea, the rain poured. It was followed with strong wind blow. Oh my God, is this the storm in its actual life form? It seems that the top of the ship will hug the big waves forever. I send SMS to everybody in my phonebook telling them that this will be mu last message. But it turned out like I was the only person feeling the panic. Or I was simply overacting? But thank God after two hours of non-stop heart pumping and nerve-cracking part of my life, the trip is over. We reached the Iloilo port safely. We're home at last.

The courtesy call with Gov. Tupas

A day after our trip, we set an appointment with Governor Niel Tupas purely to introduced the Iloilo's pride---our winners and our glory. Boy Mejorada took a short conversation with us before we met the Governor in flesh. We took a group picture, shook hands with the Governor and then evaporated his office. Thanks to the Iloilo Provincial Government for the support.

Things I learned

* Palawan is not really a malaria hotspot.
* The Palawan mosquito that sucks our blood is actually no different from Iloilo's ungrateful bloodsucker.
* The sea is scary at night.
* It is frightening to wake up alone in the ship especially when you sneak outside the ship.
* There is no taxi in Palawan.
* Tricycle and multi-cab are their major form of transportation of
Puerto Pricesa City (PPC).
* Iloilo is more urbanized than PPC.
* Milagrosa Ship is called Milagrosa because it has survived many storms (an information from a textmate).
* An alive crocodile looks dead (my libat man gali nga crocodile).
* It is better to bring your own food when travelling like in a ship.

wecky

June 21st, 2005, 03:31 PM

Tuesday, June 21, 2005
Sinuwak group shines in Pandayan Festival 2005

THE Sinuwak group ruled the street dancing contest during the Municipality of Badiangan's Pandayan Festival 2005.

The group, composed of barangays Bitaoyan, Malublob, Sinuagan and Astorga, also garnered that Best in Performance and Best in Choreography special awards.

Last year's champion Binakuko group of barangays Tamocol, Agusipan, Cabanga-an, Bingauan and Guinawahan placed only in second spot and got the Best in Music special award.

The Surot group of barangays Iniligan, Catubig, Teneclan and Budiawe finished third and garnered the Best in Costume special award.

The Best in Discipline special award was snitched by Pinandak group.

Pandayan Festival 2005 showcased Badianganon's ingenuity, craftsmanship and ways of life through dance and merrymaking.

It is a secular and occupational festival that features the binangon-making of Barangay Bingauan.

The promotion of Pandayan Festival is also anchored in the celebration of the 38th Foundation Day of the Municipality of Badiangan on June 17th.

Mayor Suzette Mamon said she hopes the festivity is the beginning for Badiangan to get noticed in the field of business and tourism.

Gracing the affair were Presidential Assistant for Western Visayas Rafael Coscolluela, Board Member Lilia Gonzales and Barotac Viejo Mayor Raul Tupas, who represented Governor Niel Tupas.

(from Sunstar Iloilo News Online)

sandrin

June 21st, 2005, 03:40 PM

Atenciones:

Ilonggos aplaudemos/aclamados Viva Viva La Presidente Gloria. Dios te Benditan !!! Ayayayayay :P

blueguy

June 21st, 2005, 05:16 PM

For all Engineering graduates of Central Philippine University... according to some insider at CPU, there will be a grand alumni homecoming on Aug 4 at Amigo Terrace Hotel...Admission is free!!!!! :cheers:

CENTENNIAL NA!!!! :hahaha:

wecky

June 21st, 2005, 10:53 PM

Hi Van .. you are Centralian as well? wow ... that's very nice. I'm going home for centennial. My flights are all booked na ... time to converge in CPU this August. See you there !

http://web02.cpu.edu.ph/centennial2005/centennial2.jpg

wecky

June 21st, 2005, 11:19 PM

Atenciones:

Ilonggos aplaudemos/aclamados Viva Viva La Presidente Gloria. Dios te Benditan !!! Ayayayayay :P

yes, sandrin .. Ilonggos (Iloilo) are supporting GMA. indeed. As for me, I don't believe in revolution and/or changing our government overnight by ousting the leader. If we want to move forward to progress - unity, peace and positive attitude - are few of the main ingredients (I guess). I forbid to listen to negative blabbers .. they are all but noise ... I want action. I hate to hear moans from self-proclaimed righteous people, oftentimes they are the ones misleading the crowd. Besides, if they want Arroyo to be impeached, who will be their best bet to rule the Philippines then? Pimentel ? Erap ? other oppositions ? Gone are the days when they can fool Filipinos of their so called "masa appeal" or "para sa masa". It doesn't work it out for now ... we already moved forward. Unless we let these people drag us back again .. then our country's progress will be back to nil, too.

They (oppositions) are the forefront economic destabilisers, nothing more, nothing less. If they want our country to move forward, they should help the government to attain economic prosperity by focusing their efforts in infras, tourisms, inflations, jobs/employments, etc. They are but a classic politicians ... that while the country is on the verge of financial woes, they themselves are drumbeating and heralding for another revolution. Isn't it an insanity, selfishness and demoralisation? Look at what Pimentel is doing .. he's the best and classic example of this.

(sorry for the pun .. but that's how I feel)

wecky

June 21st, 2005, 11:20 PM

Governors want bridges to link Iloilo, Negros, Cebu

The governors of Iloilo, Negros Oriental and Negros Occidental are mulling to construct bridges linking their three neighboring islands to boost tourism in the Visayas.

Iloilo Gov. Niel Tupas said a Japanese investor is willing to finance these multi-billion projects provided this will be guaranteed by local government units (LGUs) where these bridges are to be constructed.

Govs. George Arnaiz of Negros Oriental and Joseph Marañon of Negros Occidental are amenable to the idea.

Tupas said LGUs will share the responsibility in financing the project. The loan is payable for 30 years and has a 10-year grace period.

The governor said there are also plans to have a toll fee for vehicles using the bridge to help pay the debt.

The bridge proposal was presented to President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo during the launching of the government’s ethanol program in San Carlos City in Negros Occidental last month.

Tupas said the President already instructed the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Director in Region VI Rolando Asis to determine the viability of the project.

(from Panay News Online)

wecky

June 21st, 2005, 11:25 PM

Antique’s bests join ‘WOW Philippines’

Antiqueños and Manileños alike will once again have a reason to visit Intramuros, Manila, as the province of Antique participates in this year’s Best of the Regions in the WOW Philippines.

Wow Philippines is held annually by the Department of Tourism (DOT) in an effort to help provinces promote their products in the national and even international market.

Based on the successful outcome from the same event in 2003, Governor Salvacion Z. Perez never lacked enthusiasm in this year’s participation.

Although she opined that this year’s event might not have the same luster compared to the previous years considering the political situation the government is experiencing now.

This was one of her pronouncements to the media here during a press conference at the Sumakwel Hall, New Capitol.

The DOT Region 6 earlier revealed that the Best of Western Visayas will unfold on June 15-28, 2005. Dubbed as “Kabuganaan sang Western Visayas,” this two-week long activity will adorn the historic walled city of Intramuros with the regions’ unique drumbeats, colors, music and indigenous products.

There will be 39 booths composed of destination highlights, crafts demo, product selling and tour packages, among others. Cultural shows will be a daily attraction.

June 26 is set to be ‘Antique Day’ and Perez is upbeat that Manila- based Antiqueños will flock to Intramuros just like in the 2003 participation.

Activities will start at 2 p.m. with the Original Kinaray-a Music Jamming at Clamshell. At 3 to 5 p.m., there will be a Malay-Ati, a mardi gras presentation, at Plaza Ignacio. The street dancing will be performed by Tribu Tugbong of Pandan. At 5 p.m. there will be a gathering of Antiqueño Visual artists dubbed as “Kolor Hayahay” at the Arts Guild Clamshell.

In the evening still at Clamshell, the activities include Tunog Antiqueño” featuring original songs by Dante Beriong, and the Paranubliun Chorus at 7 p.m. A theatrical play, “Aninipay” will follow, depicting the famous story of the landing of the 10 Bornean datus and the establishment of the first barangay in Antique.

The whole day affair will conclude with the gathering of Antiqueños in Manila at Kalsa Angelo King Heritage.

Antique’s pride, Department of Energy Secretary Raphael Perpetuo M. Lotilla, will be the guest of honor.

(from Panay News Online)

wecky

June 21st, 2005, 11:29 PM

Conversion of MIDC into authority Looms

ILOILO CITY - The conversion of Metro Iloilo Development Coucil (MIDC) into an agency that will administer that will administer revenue-producing public enterprises, among others, has been proposed to Mayor Jerry P. Treñas to President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.

(from: Iloilo City Official Website : www.iloilocity.tk)

wecky

June 21st, 2005, 11:45 PM

found this article while googling ..

PGMA: Iloilo will be promoted both as tourism destination and agribusiness hub

ILOILO CITY –- President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo today said Iloilo province would be promoted not only as a tourist destination but also as an agribusiness hub, being a major rice producer in the entire Visayas area.

The President made this declaration at the "5th Adlaw Sang Barangay sa Iloilo" (5th Barangay Day in Iloilo) where she guested today and which was attended by some 17,000 barangay delegates. The assembly was held at the Iloilo City Sports Complex here.

The President called on the barangay officials to support and actively participate in various government programs and projects that would benefit their poor constituents, aside from maintaining peace and order in their respective communities.

She also advised the local barangay officials to address their concerns and problems to Western Visayas Presidential Assistant Rafael Coscolluela and Land Reform Secretary Rene Villa.

President Arroyo arrived 2:00 p.m. at the Iloilo Airport in Mandurriao and immediately proceeded to the Iloilo Central Market to monitor the prices of basic commodities. She was accompanied by Agriculture Secretary Arthur Yap and Senate president Franklin Drilon.

Aside from Drilon, who hails from this city, Iloilo Governor Niel Tupas, City Mayor Jerry Trenas and other local official and leaders warmly welcomed the President in behalf of the Ilongos.

After her informal interaction with media at the market, the Chief Executive addressed the barangay activity at the sports complex as part of the 104th Semana Sang Iloilo (Iloilo Foundation Day).

The President is also scheduled to induct and meet with the members of the Provincial Board Members League (PBML) executive committee and attend the convention of the Iloilo Lions Club at the Sarabia Manor Hotel here.

Governor Tupas said this is the third visit of the President in Iloilo since January this year.

President Arroyo went to Miag-ao town last January 23 to promote the local weaving industry. She was here also last March 3 to lead the ceremonial switch-on of the ePLDT Ventus call center that has provided many jobs for residents in the region.

(from : http://www.news.ops.gov.ph/archives2005/apr15.htm)

wecky

June 21st, 2005, 11:58 PM

2 airlines to have more flights to GenSan
By Allen V. Estabillo / MindaNews / 4 March 2005

GENERAL SANTOS CITY -* Two airline companies are set to open new commercial domestic flights to this city this year to cope up with the growing passenger traffic coming from the southern and central Mindanao region, the Air Transportation Office (ATO) said.

Nathaniel Nazareno, city airport and ATO manager, said Cebu Pacific Airlines and South Phoenix Airways have reportedly placed in the pipeline for this year the expansion of their domestic operations here.

“We’re continuously following up the expansion of these two airlines since we really need to open new routes and add more domestic flights this year,” he told MindaNews in a phone interview.

Nazareno said they have proposed to the two airline companies to open up direct flights from this city to Iloilo City, where most college students from the predominantly Visayan and Hiligaynon-speaking region have been flocking.

Air Philippines is currently offering daily connecting flights from this city to Iloilo via Cebu City. Air Philippines also serves one connecting flight to Manila daily via Cebu while Philippine Airlines has one direct flight daily from this city to Manila.

“But residents are clamoring for direct flights to Iloilo since the connecting flights are time consuming and inconvenient,” Nazareno said.

Philippine Airlines used to have direct flights at least thrice a week from this city to Manila using Fokker-50 planes but scrapped them when the city’s airport was transferred from Buayan to its present site in barangay Fatima.

Nazareno said Cebu Pacific, through owner Lance Gokongwei, had already formally informed the ATO and the city government regarding its plans to expand operations this year.

Both the ATO and the city government requested Cebu Pacific last year to open some flights to this city.

“Lance (Gokongwei) already assured us that GenSan is their top expansion prospect but they could not do so right now because their fleet is already tied up to the other destinations,” he said.

He said Gokongwei promised to implement such plan after their newly purchased plane fleet arrives by the middle of this year.

“We are expecting them to conduct the usual market studies as soon as the planes arrive,” Nazareno said.

Cebu Pacific said in a statement issued last month that it purchased 31 General Electric-made engines for its 12 brand new Airbus 319s and two A320s. Of the 31 engines, 28 will be installed on the new jets while the remaining three will be used as spare.

The airline purchased 12 new A319s and leased two A320s in a re-fleeting program to expand domestic and regional services. The A320s are due by the second quarter of this year while the first A319s will come by September, followed by monthly deliveries until early 2007.

Regarding South Phoenix’s expansion, Nazareno said the company was supposed to start its operations here during the second quarter of the year but it was temporarily deferred due to the surge in passenger traffic of its flights from Zamboanga to Labuan in Malaysia.

He said South Phoenix reportedly even suspended its Davao operations to concentrate its fleet on the Zamboanga-Labuan route.

Nazareno said Phoenix had planned to open flights from this city to Iloilo and some key cities in Mindanao.

(from Mindanao News Online)

wecky

June 22nd, 2005, 12:18 AM

New airline eyes Gensan-Iloilo route
Bong S. Sarmiento / MindaNews / 04 February 2005

GENERAL SANTOS CITY -- A new airline company is exploring the possibility of servicing the General Santos City-Iloilo City route, an air course no other airlines has plied since the 1980s, it was learned today.
Nathaniel Nazareno, manager of the General Santos City Airport, said executives of South Phoenix Airways are interested in opening up the route between the two cities possibly within the year.

South Phoenix Airways is a company owned by former pilots and executives of local aviation companies.

“Executives of that airline company see an opportunity because at present no other airlines service the air route between the cities of General Santos and Iloilo,” Nazareno said.

He added that South Phoenix’s officials, in a recent meeting, failed to disclose the frequency of the flights they wish to apply for the planned route opening.

He also attributed the interest of South Phoenix in servicing the air route between this city and Iloilo City to the fact that travelers from either place have to take the sea route.

WG&A Super Ferry and Sulpicio Lines are the two shipping companies that have commercial routes directly linking this southern port city and Iloilo.

Travel by sea from here to Iloilo takes about 24 hours, but with direct air travel, the voyage time will drastically be reduced to less than two hours.

Nazareno said that if ever South Phoenix pushes through with its plan, he expects the airline company to start its flights at a lower frequency and increase it as the market grows.

At present, only Philippine Airlines and Air Philippines have a daily flight here.

Philippine Airlines has a direct flight from Manila to General Santos City and vice versa, while Air Philippines also has a daily flight from Manila to General Santos City via Cebu City and vice versa.

Cebu Pacific, the other company that has made its mark in the Philippine airline industry, has yet to signify intentions of opening up a route here.

South Phoenix is presently servicing the Zamboanga City-Davao City route, reportedly every Wednesday and Saturday using Y/S 11-500 Advanced Series Turbo Aircraft.

Cebu Pacific supplies flight between the two cities every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.

Air travel time between Davao and Zamboanga takes only one and a half hours.

(from MindaNews Online)

wecky

June 22nd, 2005, 12:41 AM

Western Visayas at its best

By CORNELIO R. DE GUZMAN

A visit to Intramuros Clamshell this coming two weeks will bring you to the exciting attractions and products sale of Western Visayas (Region 6) comprising the provinces of Iloilo, Negros Occidental, Capiz, Aklan, Antique and Guimaras.

In the Kabugana-an showcase which opened June 16 to 28 at the Clamshell, Western Visayas, exhibits and sells live and processed marine products, souvenir items, woodcraft, handwoven textiles and products; and pasalubong food items. The six provinces also sell tour packages to their popular historical, cultural and religious destinations aside from beach resorts and festivals

This Kabugana-an presentation is part of The Best of the Regions year-round show in Intramuros, under the auspices of the Department of Tourism (DoT) headed by Secretary Ace Durano. Managing the two-week show are DoT Regional Director Edwin G. Trompeta and Rafael Tibong Jardeleza, events manager and assistant director.

As its theme: "Ginintuang Pamana: Arts, History and Culture" suggests visitors will experience the region’s wealth of arts, history, and culture through music and dances.

As you enter the domed-shaped Clamshell, you could see to your right a display of live seafoods from Pana-ay, Capiz consisting of grouper (lapu-lapu); seabass (bulgan); snapper (maya-maya); oyster (talaba); angel wings (dival); prawns (sugpo) and red crabs (kasag) or alimango to Tagalogs. Other marine products processed in Capiz and some northern Iloilo towns are also sold at bargain prices.

Iloilo booths have an array of food items like biscocho, barquillos, pulceras, principe, bañadas, ugoy-uyoy and pacencia. Negros, which grows sugar abundantly through the century, shares the tradition of baking pastries, biscuits and other sweet food items.

Aklan exhibits its processed meat products and some food items that are favorite pasalubong items. Antique with thriving muscovado sugar industry displays sweets like bandi with other candies.

The mounds of ripened mango you see in another corner of the Clamshell come from Guimaras, famous for its exportable mangoes. The youngest province in Western Visayas also displays for sale its mango products like dried slices of mango pulp, jams, spreads and other preserves.

For the duration of the Best of the Region Showcase other non-food products in Region 6 shall also be displayed:

Iloilo City will display local products such as jusi, piña cloth, and hablon; while Iloilo province will feature the Iloilo Producers Association products: Leganes woodcraft, Miag-ao hablon and hindi of San Noaquin;

Aklan brings its piña cloth, raffia products, abaca cloth, nito products, and Sampaguita Garden dolls;

The province of Antique exhibits and sells its bariw bags, aside from other souvenir items;

Bacolod City displays its colorful Masskara souvenirs, aside from T-flavors processed foods and pickled products as well as native delicacies.

Meanwhile, visitors will find Western Visayan textiles weave a rich tapestry of colors and culture.

Hablon, patadyong, silk, piña and other hand-woven products from Region 6 became the toast of the fashion runways. But they are also ever present in the homes of rich and poor in Western Visayas and sold in wet markets.

Patadyong is the cloth of many colors of stripes, squares and rectangles. Hablon are hand-woven textiles, sometimes in muted colors and sometimes combined with silk threads. Patadyong and hablon are available in the southern towns of Iloilo and in some parts of Antique, woven by women who have the tradition of weaving for more 150 years.

Piña comes from Aklan where weavers painstakingly processed pineapple fibers and weave them to become exquisite cloth that commands high price for its beauty and workmanship.

Silk is one of the recent products of Western Visayas coming from the silk farms in Negros Occidental.

The traditional textiles in Western Visayas have survived through the tenacity of families who learned the craft. Some fashion designers, entrepreneurs, and local government officials have supported their production, although it wasn’t enough to encourage many women to go back to their looms or prevent young weavers to leave for work in the cities or abroad.

Although they are not for everyday wear, Western Visayas has an attachment to these traditional textiles. Patadyong, for example, is a versatile cloth. It is a skirt, a hammock, an apron and a convenient wipe. Women wear patadyong while washing clothes or bathing in the river. The cloth also functions as a curtain, a tablecloth, pillowcase and blanket, among others. Fashion designers recently turned patadyong into gowns, cocktail dresses, and formal wear.

Crowd-drawing festival extravaganzas that entail huge expense on the part of organizers are part of packaged tourism and show certain aspects of local culture.

It’s more than street dancing to attract tourists. They also support local industries that otherwise do not get noticed.

For example, young festivals like Pandayan of Badiangan town and Pakuyang sa Tangyan of Igbaras town are deeply rooted in the traditions of the said towns. Pandayan, shown last June 18, draws inspiration from the centuries-old blacksmithing tradition of the central Iloilo town of Badiangan. The town produces many kinds of long blades (bolo or hinangon) and knives. The industry supports families and makes the town famous for its products.

Enduring and popular festivals in Western Visayas share that element of promoting culture and livelihood. These were evident in the Ati-Atihan, Dinagyang, Masskara, Halaran and Binirayan where tourism receipts as well as local revenues get a boost. Ties were also strengthened, local talents were tapped and tourism facilities are upgraded.

A 20-minute boat ride from Iloilo takes a traveler to Guimaras Island for a day tour. Guimaras has unspoiled landscapes and white sand beaches. It also has mountain resorts like Valle Verde which gives a panoramic view of the sea. Guimaras offers island hopping and visits to coves and secluded beaches. For a more quiet time, a visit to Trappist Monastery or a hike to Balaan Bukid is a must.

If you’re searching for what is authentically Ilonggo, a city and countryside tour in Iloilo is a good place to start. A visit to Museo Iloilo that outlines the history of the Iloilo province introduces a visitor to origins and many influences that make up the Ilonggo culture. A drive through the old commercial district, known as Calle Real, and a stopover to the Iloilo Producers Association showroom are rewarding.

A visit to Jaro district brings a traveler to see turn-of-the century buildings and homes and the stately Jaro Cathedral where all its icons are male saints. This contrasts with that of the Molo Church, inspired by Gothic-Renaissance style, where all saints are females. While touring Iloilo, it is best to sample two famous dishes – Batchoy and pancit molo.

In a city tour of Roxas City, Capiz, one basks in freshness and abundance of seafood of which Capiz province is known for. A visit to Teodoro Arcenas Trade Center and Banica Dried Fish market is a must. These places offer a wide variety of fresh and processed marine products. Baybay Beach has rows of restaurants and resorts that serve delicious seafood grilled, stewed and cooked the native way. Try your angling skills at Capiz Bay Resort.

For a glimpse of culture and history, visit the Ang Panubli-on (Heritage) Museum and Roxas City Display Center where handicrafts and cut flower and ornamental plants are sold.

(from Manila Bulletin Online)

wecky

June 22nd, 2005, 12:48 AM

WESTERN VISAYAS

http://www.iloilo.net/dot/r6/maps/map_wv.gif

................................................................
now to include .....
................................................................

http://www.pioneerexpeditions.com/images/palawan_map.gif

Virtute

June 22nd, 2005, 02:20 AM

¡Gracias por las buenas noticias Wecky! Good to have news, keeps me coming back for more!

wecky

June 22nd, 2005, 12:18 PM

Wednesday, June 22, 2005
Leganes town cited for mangrove refo project

THE Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) and the Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Management Council (BFAR-FARMC) cited the officials of Leganes for implementing a wide scale mangrove reforestation activity in the coastal barangays.

Citations were conferred to Leganes Mayor Adolfo Jaen; Engr. Samson Jaspe, municipal planning and development coordinator; and Enrico Inayan, representing Municipal FARMC.

The mangrove reforestation project covers kilometers of denuded coastal areas of Camangay, Bigke, and MV Hechanova.

The mangrove reforestation activity was conducted in four separate sites from February to March this year, and involved various entities concerned with saving the eroded shores of Leganes.

The Leganes Municipal Government served as command center and facilitator.

The activity is aimed to restore the original shoreline claimed by the sea and establish the natural habitat for different marine resources made scarce due to the loss of original mangrove cover. Earlier, a memorandum of agreement was inked to ensure project sustainability.

Other agencies sent their students or staff to participate in the mangrove reforestation project, including Panay Power Corp., West Visayas State University, Western Visayas College of Science and Technology, and RGMA-Ratsada.

(from Sunstar News Online)

wecky

June 22nd, 2005, 12:31 PM

¡Gracias por las buenas noticias Wecky! Good to have news, keeps me coming back for more!

You're welcome, Virtute. Right now, there are so many activities going on within the city and the province of Iloilo. It is just right to acknowledge each one of them. There's a festival celebrated in every town, new infrastructure sprouting in every corner, business developments, etc. We are simply on the road to progress. The city and provincial government along with the NGOs are helping each other to promote ILOILO as a tourism area and an investment haven. We (ilonggos abroad), too, must do our part in helping our relatives, friends and fellow Ilonggos back home.

wecky

June 22nd, 2005, 12:52 PM

ADP-I
Where lives of hundreds begins
By WEIN P. GADIAN

A pregnant woman would only wish for a healthy baby devoid of physical imperfections. She becomes very excited to know if the child is fit. The family then celebrates the coming home of the newborn infant.

This is a normal scene in a family expecting a child. The family feels so much happiness but if the infant has a disability the family also experiences pain. Then endless blaming occurs because they right away think that the child will not have a normal life.

It is because of reasons as such that groups for empowering disabled people were formed. One group is the Association Of Disabled Persons-Iloilo (ADP-I) . It is a self-help group that aims to promote and uplift the individual for eventual integration in the society. They are also given seminars and trainings to help them become independent despite the challenges they go through because of their disabilities.

Inspired by the Second National Congress for Disabled Persons in Bago City in July 1990, the association was established. Its proponents were Messrs. Louie Arches Posa, Mario Abaygar, and Henry Orleans. All three of them have disabilities.

ADP-I's Family Enhancement and Development Program

It was also realized with the active support of the Regional Council for the Welfare of Disabled Persons (RCWDP) Region VI and the Special Education staff.

ADP-I is registered as a non-stock, non- profit organization by the Securities & Exchange Commission. It is accredited by the City and Province of Iloilo, DOLE, DSWD & DOH. ADP-I has three sub-groups of people with cross-disabilities like the visually, orthopedically impared and those with hearing impairment. ADP-I is being governed by the Board of Trustees and Officers being elected every two years.

It is also an affiliate member of the Katipunan ng May Kapansanan sa Pilipinas (KAMPI), a National Federation of Disabled Persons in the Philippines.

It aims for a sustainable, productive organization, uniting, leading and guiding the total development of persons with disabilities in Western Visayas.

Services Offered

Disability is not a hindrance to productivity

The group integrates persons with disabilities (PWDs) into the mainstream of society to be Christ-centered, competitive, self-reliant and independent. Through this they protect their rights, privileges, physical and social rehabilitation. The values and spiritual well-being of PWDs are also enhanced through advocacy, information, education and provision of livelihood and employment opportunities.

Through the years ADP-I evolved into a simple organization to a productive livelihood program for PWDs. At the present, there are 500 registered PWDs.

ADP-I services offered for members are the Social Services for Children with Disabilities (SSCWD), Family Enhancement & Development Program (FEDP), Productivity Center and the Jaro Plaza Canteen.

The SSCWD caters to the needs of Children with disabilities aged 25 and below through medical assistance, scholarships, rehabilitations and provision of assistive devices. This department has already supported 327 beneficiaries.

FEDP (Micro-Finance) is the Program Management Unit where it caters to those individual who needs financial assistance on livelihood. It is also a conduit of the government in facilitating Micro-Finance and is funded by the PCFC (People's Credit & Finance Corporation) and PEF (peace and Equity Foundation) thru loans. Now it has 3,671 clients in two branches: Iloilo city and Barotac Viejo. Iloilo City branch is serving Lapaz, Lapuz, Molo and City Proper. Barotac Viejo branch is in Barotac Viejo, Balasan, Ajuy and San Dionisio.

ADP-I also has a massage center with services for every one. They also accept technical assistance such as computer encoding, printing, fax and photocopying of materials.

It has established a canteen which serves as the Income Generating Project and a Computer Center to provide computer education for people from all walks of life.

The association also created its Multi-Purpose Cooperative for the benefits of all members. Under its cooperative's project are the Jaro Plaza Canteen and the Productivity Center in Sta. Barbara.

We serve you the best in the Jaro Canteen

It also has a productivity Center in Sta. Barbara . The center provides Sheltered Workshop on wheelchair production. It manufactures wheelchairs, special chairs, prosthesis, crutches, armchairs, school chairs. Day care chairs for children, steel and wood works are also produced.

These existing projects sustain the programs of the association, operational expenses, maintenance and cleanliness of the plaza particularly the playground area.

Members also undergo trainings and seminars for their total development. Among these are recollections, retreats and sponsored masses. They also celebrate summer camp, summer family day and other special occasions.

They have concerts, sports development where they join competitions both in local and globally. They also join in the National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation Week (NDPR) and others.

Everyone is unique and that opportunities should be given. ADP-I stands with its motto: “Opportunity not Pity: Let us help PWDs help themselves.”

ADP-I will be having a “Walk for A Cause” on June 24. Assembly time is 9am at Jaro Plaza. For information on membership and others you can visit ADP-I at Jaro Plaza beside the play ground. You can also contact them at 329-2809 and 3292905. Let's promote a disability friendly society and join ADP- I's advocacy!

(from The News Today Online)

wecky

June 23rd, 2005, 08:53 AM

WV is pilot area for GO-FAR

Western Visayas is one of the three pilot areas of Good Practices in local Governance: Facility for Adaptation and Replication (GO-FAR) project in the country. This is a chance to showcase the achievements of the region in excellent practices in local governance.

A project of the Local Government Support Program (LGSP) in cooperation with the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), GO-FAR provides venues for learning and replication of best practices for local governments.

In the region, five models were earlier identified: Establishing a Quick Response Team on Violence against Women (Escalante City, Negros Occidental; Municipal Child-Friendly Program in Concepcion, Iloilo); KASAMAKA: Public Participation Reduces Waste (Sigma, Capiz); and Sustainable Environment Management Through Community-based Eco-tourism (Kalibo, Aklan and Pandan, Antique).

An orientation for the regional directors and GO-FAR technical working group members for Regions 6 (Western Visayas), 2 (Cagayan Valley), and 10 (Northern Mindanao), together with the Bureau of Local Government Development is being conducted here to prepare them in the implementation of the program. Each region is encouraged to have at least two LGU replicators within this year.

DILG regional director Evelyn Trompeta said GO-FAR project focuses on the efforts of the DILG towards fulfilling its mandate of building up the capabilities of local governments through effective learning.

“At this point, we have already received inquiries from interested local governments regarding their possible replication of identified best practices,” Trompeta said.

“We are lucky here in the region to have the LGSP because they helped us create a learning program that is more systematic where we can have more tangible results in local government replication,” she added.

(from Panay News Online)

wecky

June 23rd, 2005, 08:56 AM

Caltex Phils. funds children’s education

Caltex Philippines is easing the burden of poor families in Western Visayas by helping their children go to school.

Through the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)Field Office 6, Caltex is sponsoring the education of children who belong to low-income families.

In Iloilo City, 20 children will study at Assumption de Obrero in Bo. Obrero, Lapuz, La Paz. Some P400,000 was released for the educational expenses of the children.

In Bacolod City, some P450,000 was also allocated for the scholarship of children of those who cannot afford to shoulder educational expenses of their kids.

In the same manner, Home of Hope Inc. and Laura Vicuña Foundation Inc. in Victorias City were granted P500,000 and P400,000, respectively for educational scholarship. These are non-government organizations.

The Calvary Chapel of Bacolod was also granted P1.1 million for educational programs.

In almost all of these grants, the children did not only avail. Parents were also developed as productive and responsible individuals through the conduct of skills training, micro-lending scheme, trainings on livelihood such as vegetable farming, rice and poultry production.

In Iloilo City, Caltex has also allotted P450,000 for livelihood assistance and skills training of workers through the Task Force for Street Children. Parents were trained on engine tune-up, stuff toy making, beauty culture, manicure/pedicure/flower making and food preservation.

(from Panay News Online)

wecky

June 23rd, 2005, 08:59 AM

Thursday, June 23, 2005
TF Clean and Green, DENR lead walk advocacy

THE Iloilo City Government through the Task Force Clean and Green, in partnership with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB), will lead a walk advocacy on June 23.

The theme, "Green Iloilo City: Let's work for it," is taken from the Environment Month theme, "Green Cities: Plan for the Planet," said Task Force chair Ma. Elena Locsin.

The activity, dubbed "Walk Advocacy for a Green Iloilo City", will be participated by non-government organizations, City Proper barangays, business establishments and junk shop owners, colleges and universities, the City Environment and Natural Resources Office, and the Office of Public Services.

Bikers groups, city street sweepers, motor cops, city officials and national government agency representatives will also take part in the walk which will be hyped by Dinagyang drummers.

Locsin said the assembly area will be at the Plaza Libertad at 7 a.m. The participants will walk around the city to advocate for "most pressing environmental issues such as solid waste management, clean air, and clean water."

We Heal's Dr. Kristin Tre¤as, activity chairperson, said the walk advocacy will help "dramatize the mechanics on waste segregation, recyclables recovery and the effects of air and water pollution."

The "walkers" will bring banners, posters, placards and signs to help motivate the people to work "for a green Iloilo City." During the walk, push carts and trisikads will go around collecting segregated wastes, Tre¤as said.

OPS head Engr. Raul Gallo, assistant general services officer, said the Task Force will require the barangays to bring at least three used car tires with holes bored on them as part of the campaign to fight dengue hemorrhagic fever.

He said the barangays will also be asked to bring empty mineral water bottles which will be piled, along with the used tries, at the back of the Freedom Grandstand where they will be bought by interested recyclers and other buyers after the program.

The activity will be a dramatized implementation of RA 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000.

The City Government and DENR-EMB have also organized a Recyclables Bazaar "to actuate the recovery and buying of recyclable materials" as a way of teaching the public how to segregate their wastes and to encourage them to "religiously segregate."(PR)

(from Sunstar Iloilo News Online)

wecky

June 23rd, 2005, 11:15 PM

Help protect Iloilo’s environment – DENR

Everyday, this city generates 300 tons of garbage. Fortunately, it has a controlled dumpsite in Brgy. Calajunan, Mandurriao District to accommodate all these trash, revealed Acting Regional Executive Director Val Talabero of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR-6).

Talabero appealed to residents here to help protect their environment. He led yesterday’s “Walk Advocacy for a Green Iloilo City” – a parade to awaken public awareness on the consequences of neglecting the ecosystem.

Environmental degradation is costly, warned Talabero. Citing World Bank’s Philippine Environment Report 2004, he said environmental degradation is costing the country at least Pl00 billion annually.

The Philippines is losing P67 billion annually due to water pollution, he revealed; P23 billion for lack of management of fisheries resources; and P2l billion in health bills because of air pollution.

Talabero challenged the public to support the government’s environmental protection program which is best addressed by Republic Act 9003 (Ecological Solid Waste Management or ESWM Act of 2000).

The first Republic Act signed by President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo when she assumed the presidency in 2001, RA 9003 provides for a systematic and comprehensive ecological waste management program for the country.

Ecological Solid Waste Management refers to the systematic administration of activities which provide for segregation at source, transportation, storage, transfer, processing, treatment and disposal of solid waste and all other waste management activities which do not harm the environment.

Talabero lauded the Iloilo City government under Mayor Jerry Treñas for implementing the law. Aside from transforming the previously open dumpsite in Calajunan to a controlled one, Treñas also ordered regular collection of garbage in the city, with each residence and business establishment required to segregate the biodegradable from the non-biodegradable and the recyclable.

Yesterday’s “Walk Advocacy for a Green Iloilo City” began at 7:30 a.m. A joint undertaking of the Iloilo City government thru the Task Force on Clean and Green and the DENR, the parade ended in a program at the Freedom Grandstand.

(from Panay News Online)

wecky

June 23rd, 2005, 11:17 PM

OWWA grants livelihood opportunities to OFWs

Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) families or organizations have now the opportunity to group together and earn through the “Groceria cum Botika” project of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA).

OWWA VI Family Welfare Officer Sarah Pasan said the “Groceria cum Botika” project, launched April last year, is a livelihood program for OFWs and their dependents and at the same time an employment opportunity. This, she said, is in support of the job generation thrust of President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.

Under this project, livelihood loans are granted to Overseas Family Circles (OFC) or OFW organizations with at least 15 members. The loan is in form of merchandise goods worth P50,000. This is interest and collateral free, payable in two years. The only counterpart of the beneficiaries for the project are the structure/building and manpower.

An incentive of P25,000 worth of medicines will be given to a “Groceria project” once it has paid up 75% of its loan.

“The project does not only create income-generating opportunities to target beneficiaries but also develop their entrepreneurial skills and innovative ideas to maintain the store,” said Pasan.

Pasan added that any existing OFW organization could avail of the project. If there are potential OFWs interested, they are always ready provide assistance in organizing them.

The project, she added, also serves as a venue where OFWs and their dependents could get related information on programs, projects or activities that benefit them.

To date there are 26 existing “Groceria projects” in the region - 13 are set up in Iloilo and 6 each in Aklan and Negros Occidental.

(from Panay News Online)

wecky

June 23rd, 2005, 11:20 PM

Sara celebrates 3rd Sulay-Basya Festival

This municipality is celebrating today its annual religious fiesta in honor of St. John the Baptist through the staging of its 3rd Sulay-Basya Festival.

St. John the Baptist or San Juan was the one who baptized Jesus Christ to signal the start of his evangelical mission, the festival is thus synonymously celebrated with water.

The Sulay-Basya Festival aims to promote the municipality of Sara as an eco-tourism center of northern Iloilo, said Mayor Neptali Salcedo.

With water as the major element of festival, the municipality is staging various activities that highlight water-related activities today.

Sulay-Basya Festival manifests the religious and cultural heritage of every Sarañon, Salcedo stressed.

“Sulay” is the Hiligaynon word for “getting wet” usually under the rain or any gushing water.

The term is often associated with playing or frolicking under the rain. However, in a deeper and more meaningful sense, Salcedo said “sulay” refers to the person’s courage to withstand the downpour to overcome his/her fears.

As such, “sulay” implies braveness to withstand the coldness and pressure of running water. These qualities reign in the heart of every Sarañon, Salcedo explained.

“Basya” is a Hiligaynon word that means “to intentionally douse water on someone or group of people.” Every feast of San Juan, families that fail to go to the beach or any body of water celebrate the festivity with “basyahanay” or by dousing water to one another.

This playful activity creates a joyous atmosphere for everyone, excitement, camaraderie, oneness and peace in the name of the baptizer, San Juan.

(from Panay News Online)

wecky

June 23rd, 2005, 11:21 PM

GMA to inaugurate AMOSUP Hospital

GOOD news to all members and dependents of the Associated Marine Officers’ and Seamen’s Union of the Philippines (AMOSUP) in Western Visayas. The new AMOSUP Seamen’s Hospital in Iloilo City will soon be ready to serve you.

Through the special initiative of Senate President Franklin Drilon to highlight the importance of this event to Ilonggos, President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo will be the guest of honor at the blessing and inauguration of the Seamen’s Hospital Iloilo on June 30, 2005 at 2:30 p.m.

A thanksgiving mass will also be celebrated at 1:30 p.m.

AMOSUP officials led by its president Capt. Gregorio S. Oca and representatives of other stakeholders in the maritime industry are also expected to attend this milestone event.

The newly completed AMOSUP hospital located on Oñate Street, Mandurriao, Iloilo City will provide quality medical, dental and secondary hospital services to all AMOSUP members and their dependents here in Western Visayas.

AMOSUP, which has about 55,000 members from all over the country, is the largest labor organization of overseas Filipino seafarers.

The construction of the hospital started early last year after groundbreaking ceremonies led by Secretary of Labor Patricia Sto. Tomas. It is the third AMOSUP Seamen’s Hospital in the country with the first two located in Intramuros, Manila and in Mandaue, Cebu.

AMOSUP members and their dependents are invited to attend this important occasion. For more information, please contact the Seamen’s Hospital Secretariat at 321-35-23.

(from Panay News Online)

wecky

June 23rd, 2005, 11:22 PM

WV wows Intramuros visitors

The grand opening of the Best of Western Visayas last June 18 wowed guests and tourists who came to witness the event in Intramuros, Manila.

Department of Tourism (DOT) Undersecretary Oscar P. Palabyab, who himself admired the performances during the opening ceremonies, noted that the spirit of unity of the officials of the six provinces and 16 cities of Western Visayas was the key to the success of the event.

Regional Development Council (RDC) chair and Antique Gov. Salvacion Zaldivar-Perez said this year's WV Best of the Region dubbed "Kabugana-an," showcases the region's abundance of nature's beauty. It likewise displays the unique lifestyle of the people.

The exhibit runs until June 28.

Capiz Gov. Vicente Bermejo said in spite of the financial constraint, they still tried to participate in the event to show their support and to take the opportunity to promote their province, which is considered as the Seafood Capital of the Philippines.

Iloilo Gov. Niel D. Tupas Sr., who was represented by Board Member Niel Tupas Jr. during the opening ceremonies, meanwhile, expressed elation on the initial success of the event that has heaped a big income from the goods displayed.

(from Panay News Online)

wecky

June 24th, 2005, 12:50 PM

Philippine-Spain Friendship Day

Iloilo City is proud to host the Filipino-Spanish Friendship Day on J une 29-30, 2005 in collaboration with the Spanish Embassy, the Spanish Chamber Commerce & Industry and the Instituto de Cervantes. It is a grand nationwide celebration held every year in different areas of the country which played an important role in the history of the Spanish conquest. Iloilo City bears the singular distinction of being the last Capital of Spain in Asia when in 1898 after the fall of Manila to the Americans, Gen. Diego de los Rios was appointed Spanish Governor General of the Philippines with Iloilo as the temporary capital.

The Organizing Committee created by Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas is headed by Elena Jison Golez and is composed of members from the government and non-government organizations who have volunteered their time and efforts to making the celebration a successful fun event. As this celebration seeks to educate as well as to promote Iloilo and strengthen Filipino/Spanish ties the committee has lined up the following schedule of activities:

June 28: 4:00 pm Arrival in Iloilo of Spanish Delegation

5:00 pm Courtesy call to Iloilo Governor Niel D. Tupas

June 29: 9:00 am Laying of the wreath at the Monument at Plaza Arevalo

9:30 am Museo Iloilo

Palimpsesto is a theater form of presenting Hiligaynon literature

Art Exhibit by Ilonggo artists
10:00 Del Rio Hotel

Feria Española, a 2 day trade fair of Spanish wine and consumer products
11:00 Wine Appreciation seminar (part 1)

1:30 pm Wine Appreciation seminar (part 2)

2:00 pm University of San Agustin

Lectures on Spanish Influence on Filipino Architecture by the Instituto de Cervantes
Film festival
2:30-5:30 Iloilo National High School

Flamenco Workshop by Centro Flamenco
3:30 Del Rio Hotel

Demo on Spanish Cooking By Chef Sandra Cacho Gaudi Restaurant
4:30 Flamenco performance by Guillermo Gomez

5:30 Sarabia Manor Hotel

Tertulia y Tapas
dinner/fashion show by Patis Tesoro & Jackie Peñalosa
poetry reading, classical guitar and Spanish songs by USA Troubadours
June 30: 9:30 – 11:30 am Iloilo National High School

Flamenco Workshop by Centro Flamenco
10:00 Iloilo Provincial Capitol

Formal opening of Fil-Spanish Friendship Day celebration
Guests of Honor: Pres. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo
Spanish Delegation led by Sp. Ambassador Ignacio Sagaz
Highlights: Presentation of key of the city to Spanish delegation
Turnover of historical documents to Iloilo
10:00 Del Rio Hotel

Feria Española (con't)
11:00 Wine appreciation seminar (part 1)

1:30 Wine appreciation seminar (part 2)

2:00 pm University of San Agustin

Lectures on Spanish influence on Philippine Architecture by the Instituto Cervantes
Film Festival
3:00 CAP Auditorium

Matinee performance for students featuring the Centro Flamenco dancers, USA Troubadours & Kawilihan USA
3:30 Del Rio Hotel

Spanish Cooking Demo by Chef Sandra Cacho of Gaudi Restaurant
4:30 Flamenco performance by Guillermo Gomez

7:00 CAP Auditorium

Noche de Gala featuring the Centro Flamenco dancers USA Troubadours & Kawilihan USA
Everyone is invited to join us on this special day in Iloilo City. All events are open to the public and free of charge except the Tertulia Y Tapas & Noche de Gala which require entrance tickets. For information and ticket sales, contact the Department of Tourism Iloilo Tel. No. 3374461 c/o Jean. For specially designed tour packages & discounts (plane, airfare, hotels & heritage tours, tickets) to this event from Manila contact Sierra Tours (2)8982451 c/o Mitzi

(from The News Today Info Online)

wecky

June 24th, 2005, 12:52 PM

Iloilo's economic transformation in the 19th Century

Beginning with the 1880's, Iloilo was already considered as the commercial center and cultural capital of Western Visayas. This can be attributed to a number of significant factors, the most prominent of which were: one, the development of large-scale commercial weaving, two, the opening of Iloilo to world commerce, and three, the boom in the sugar industry.

The development of large-scale commercial weaving, beginning with the late 18 th century, was the first factor that provided the impetus towards Iloilo's economic transformation. By the 19 th century, the textile production of Iloilo had already reached a remarkable degree of development. In fact, Iloilo at that time was referred to as “the textile capital” of the Philippines (Funtecha, 1981). Its main trade textile products were pina, jusi, sinamay, cotton and silk fabrics. Pina, the specialty of Ilonggo weavers, was made from pineapple fibers; jusi was the combination of pina and seda (silk), while sinamay was woven from abaca and cotton.

The early growth of the handicraft weaving industry eventually brought about a considerable export of textile goods to Manila and foreign countries, and resulted in the earliest recorded capital accumulation among Iloilo's emerging urban elite. It also gave rise to Western Visayas' first substantial urban concentration in Arevalo, Jaro and Molo. Capitalized and managed by an urban commercial elite of mestizos, mostly of mixed Filipino-Chinese percentage, a huge number of women weavers crowded into small factories located in the towns of Iloilo, Jaro, Molo, Arevalo and Mandurriao.

The next factor that was instrumental in the development of Iloilo was the opening of its port to world trade in 1855 through a Royal Decree of the Spanish government (De Mas, 1963). This was the result of an economic survey of the Philippines in 1842 that recommended the opening of additional ports in Iloilo, Zamboanga, Cebu, and Sual in Pangasinan, aside from Manila, to international trade. The Spaniards hoped that this move would stimulate economic development in other parts of the country outside of Manila.

The opening of the port of Iloilo to world trade was brought about by the realization of the Spaniards that, for centuries already, Iloilo had been active in the coast-wise shipping and trade. It also had a number of boat-building centers. Also significant is the fact that the port of Iloilo was/is among the safest in the Philippines. The island of Guimaras provides it with a natural shield from the wind and large waves.

As a result of the opening of the port of Iloilo, agriculture and industry in the areas around the town of Iloilo and in the province were stimulated by access to direct exporting and importing, and many new economic opportunities came into being. The town of Iloilo became a thriving port with ships from all over the world docking in its harbor (Scheidnagel, 1880).

It is recognized that Iloilo's major development and greatest prosperity was caused by the boom in the sugar industry. This began with the coming of Nicholas Loney in the middle part of 1856 as the first British vice-consul in Iloilo. He found the soil of Iloilo and Negros to be suited to the cultivation of sugarcane. In his interest to advance sugar as the leading industry in the region, he imported sugarcane cuttings from Sumatra, offered to sell iron plows and modern milling machines, and granted the first crop loans to planters. (Sonza, 1977).

With incentives given to sugar production, plantations increased very rapidly in both Panay and Negros. It must be borne in mind that basic to the development of the sugar industry was the opening of lands in Negros, their planting to sugarcane, and the start of the hacienda system. Because of the demand and good prices for sugar and the availabilityof loans, Iloilo's well-to-do families made an exodus to Negros and developed large haciendas, whose owners later came to be called “sugar barons”. Following in the wake of these “sugar barons” were the poor class of migrant workers who later became collectively known as “sacadas”.

With the opening of large haciendas in Negros and the availability of modern machinery, adequate financing, and exporting facilities, the sugar industry grew by leaps and bounds. This eventually had significant consequences in making the port of Iloilo into an entrepot

of sugar trade, considering that Negros did not have a port and the required facilities for such a purpose. What happened therefore, was that sugar produced in Negros had to be shipped to Iloilo, where the necessary support infrastructure and auxiliary services were available. This, to a large extent, resulted in making Iloilo as the premiere urban center in Western Visayas during the second half of the 19th century.

(from The News Today Info Online)

wecky

June 24th, 2005, 12:54 PM

Governors want bridges to link Iloilo, Negros and Cebu

By Ian C. Espada

Three governors in the provinces of Iloilo, Negros Oriental and Negros Occidental are mulling to construct bridges linking the three neighboring islands to boast tourism in the Visayas area.

This project is being proposed by Governors Niel D. Tupas, Sr., of Iloilo, George Arnaiz of Negros Oriental and Joseph Marañon of Negros Occidental.

In a press conference with capitol press corps, Tupas said a Japanese investor is willing to finance these multi-billion projects provided this will be guaranteed by local government units where these bridges are to be constructed.

He said the LGUs will share the responsibility in financing through a payment of 30 years and 10 years grace period.

The governor said there are also plans to have a toll fee for vehicles using the bridge to help for paying the debt.

Tupas said this plan was presented to Pres. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo during the launching or ethanol program in San Carlos City in Negros Occidental.

He said the GMA has already instructed the Department of Public Works and Highways Director in Region VI Rolando Asis to make a project proposal to determine the viability of the project.

Tupas said this project would boost tourism and agricultural activities in Visayas. (Capitol News)

(from The News Today Info Online)

wecky

June 24th, 2005, 12:56 PM

OWWA grants livelihood opportunities to OFWs

Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) families/organizations have now the opportunity to group together and earn through the “Groceria cum Botika” project of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA).

OWWA VI Family Welfare Officer Sarah Pasan said “Groceria cum Botika” project launched April last year is a livelihood program for OFWs and their dependents and at the same time an employment opportunity in support of the job generation thrust of President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.

Under this project, livelihood loans are granted to Overseas Family Circles (OFC) or OFW organizations with at least 15 members. The loan is in form of merchandise goods worth P50,000. This is interest and collateral free, payable in two years. The only counterpart of the beneficiaries for the project are the structure/building and manpower. An incentive of P25,000 worth of medicines will be given to a “Groceria project” once it has paid up 75% of its loan.

“The project does not only create income-generating opportunities to target beneficiaries but also develop their entrepreneural skills and innovative ideas to maintain the store”, said Pasan.

Pasan said any existing OFW organization could avail of the project and if there are potential OFCs interested they are always ready provide assistance in organizing them.

The project, she added, also serves as a venue where OFWs and their dependents could get related information on programs, projects or activities that benefit them.

To date there are 26 existing “Groceria projects” in the region - 13 are set up in Iloilo , 6 each in Aklan and Negros Occidental and 1 in Aklan. (PIA)

(from The News Today Info Online)

wecky

June 24th, 2005, 12:59 PM

Friday, June 24, 2005
Tax bureau in Panay tops collection target

* The increase reached P46.269 million in May this year
* Based on its collection goal for May, it has surpassed the target by 4.26 percent or P12.831 million

THE Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) in Panay surpassed its collection record for the month of May by 17.27 percent compared to the same month last year.

The increase reached P46.269 million. Based on its collection goal for May, it has surpassed the target by 4.26 percent or P12.831 million.

As of May, based on its cumulative comparative collections, the increase posted was 11.07 percent or P148.605 million. Vis-à-vis its collection goal, it has exceeded by .87 percent.

Nationwide, the BIR overshoot its goal by P200 million in April, establishing a milestone in its revenue program. The year-to-date growth rate for 2005 stands at 13.6 percent, the highest since l998.

A recent survey of enterprises on corruption by the Social Weather Station indicates a steady decline in reports of bribery connected with income tax payments.

BIR Commissioner Guillermo Parayno said he is pleased with the agency's improved public acceptability rating and vowed to double efforts to rid it with corrupt officials and employees.

(from Sunstar Iloilo News Online)

chymera00

June 24th, 2005, 01:38 PM

Visayas terminals struggle with decades-old facilities
Except for the Mactan Cebu International Airport (MCIA), all the other 20 airports in the Visayas are either trunkline, secondary or feeder airports.

Mactan Cebu International Airport

Jonice Espere, corporate planning manager of the Mactan Cebu International Airport Authority (MCIAA), said the Cebu airport is the only profitable venture among the rest.

MCIA has enjoyed positive net income before tax since 1994, except in 1998 following the impact of the Asian financial crisis.

In 2003, Ms. Espere said revenues increased 5% to P583 million from P555 million in 2002. These came from aeronautical charges, lighting, parking and packing fees, baggage handling rentals, concessionaire privilege fees, and rentals of properties.

MCIA used to earn from its VIP lounge. But with each airline establishing its own similar facility, the airport authority ceased to operate it.

The airport has more domestic flights than international flights, but the international flights generate more revenue. Last year, MCIA reported 24,541 domestic flights and 3,886 international flights.

There are six international airlines that operate flights to and from the MCIA: Cathay Pacific, Silkair, Cebu Pacific, Qatar Airways, Malaysian Airlines, and Philippine Airlines (PAL).

Aside from PAL, domestic airlines Cebu Pacific, Sea Air, Air Philippines, and Asian Spirit offer flights that link Cebu to Manila, Davao City, Bacolod City, Iloilo City, Bohol, Puerto Princesa City, Butuan City, Zamboanga City, Cagayan de Oro City, Camiguin, Caticlan, and Tandag.

There are four trunkline airports and these are in Roxas City, Capiz; Iloilo City, Iloilo; Bacolod City, Negros Occidental; and Tacloban City, Leyte.

The six secondary airports can be found in Kalibo (Aklan), Antique, Catarman (Northern Samar), Calbayog City (Samar), Ormoc City (Leyte), and Tagbilaran City (Bohol).

The feeder airports are in Caticlan (jump-off point to Boracay island), Bantayan island (Cebu), Biliran, Catbalogan (Samar), Borongan (Eastern Samar), Guiuan in Hilongos (Leyte), Maasin (Southern Leyte), Ubay in Bohol, and Siquijor.

In Iloilo City, the decades-old trunkline airport will soon be replaced by the proposed new airport of international standard.

The airport in Mandurriao district is five decades old. It originally catered to small prewar and war aircraft when it opened in 1948.

When turbo jets started to operate in 1972, three major airlines dominated passenger and cargo traffic in Iloilo. These are Pilipinas Orient Airways, Air Manila, and PAL.

The airport used to have small separate terminals for the three airlines, contracted floor area, a more than a kilometer macadam runway, small control tower in the old aviation area and active aviation operation using air taxi and charter aircraft carrying an average of three to five passengers to any point of the country.

Later on, the macadam-made runway was changed into concrete overlaid with asphalt. It was also lengthened and widened and the terminal building was protracted. The ramp can now simultaneously accommodate four jets.

Alan Java, area manager of the Air Transportation Office (ATO) in Western Visayas, said the development of one airport depends on the revenues it can generate through taxes and fees from concessionaires and leases.

These include the lease of airport lands vacant for concession, lease of floor areas in terminal building, landing and takeoff fees, air navigational fees, parking fees, airmen licenses -- pilot, stewards, and mechanic -- and terminal fees.

"However, as a government entity, we should not look into it as a business but a service-oriented scheme that would improve our facilities, personnel and services to cater to the needs of the passengers," Mr. Java told BusinessWorld.

He added that the ATO central area 5 (Region 6) could generate around P10 million to P15 million annually from these fees, including the uncollected fees from some delinquent concessionaires.

In 2003, its revenue was P72 million versus expenses of P68 million. The figure includes collections from other provincial airports in the region.

Western Visayas also has trunk-line airports in Bacolod City and Roxas City, secondary airports in Kalibo and Antique and feeder airports in Caticlan and Guimaras.

At the Iloilo airport alone, there are delinquent concessionaires whose debts have piled up to P7 million. Three of these big concessionaires failed to pay rent since 1986. One past-due account has reached P3 million, although the concessionaire is paying on installment.

"They keep using our facilities but they are not paying rent. We have filed court action against these people but so far we have not been very successful in collecting amounts supposedly due the government," Mr. Java said.

"With the prevailing situation, the management has come up with proactive policies in accepting rentals. We take one-year payment in advance but we are still collecting monthly dues from our concessionaires," he added.

Instituting reforms to increase collection, said Mr. Java, is not easy but the rent should be paid on time.

There are 57 lessees in Iloilo that includes restaurants and airline offices. Many groups are still plenty interested to position their businesses inside the airport, but they cannot be accommodated.

The airport services three major airlines: Philippine Airlines (PAL), Air Philippines, and Cebu Pacific.

Mr. Java said they are now attending to more flights compared to when air traffic was monopolized by PAL. The number of flights that the airport is handling has commensurately increased its operating income.

"The competition among the airlines somehow benefits us because every time they use our navigational aids, they are paying us. The more aircraft using our aids, the more income we will have with the same expenses. More domestic flights could be translated into higher revenues in so far as fees are concerned," Mr. Java said.

The increasing passenger traffic has led to more work and responsibilities for the airport personnel, and opened more opportunities for Iloilo and the adjoining provinces of Antique, Capiz, Aklan, and Guimaras, especially from tourism.

PROBLEMS

However, most of the passengers would often complain that they are uncomfortable at the arrival and predeparture areas of Iloilo.

The original terminal building was designed for a single terminal operation, it was designed for natural ventilation, thus the open windows and corridors.

However, due to terrorist threats, the Department of Transportation and Communications has restricted entry to the terminal area, all windows and doors were closed -- without air-conditioning.

"The Iloilo airport with natural ventilation design became a closed terminal building without air-conditioning system," Mr. Java said.

The ATO has installed six five-tonner air-conditioning units in the predeparture area, except for the lobby. Mr. Java said the airport needs 23 air-conditioning units to adequately serve all areas.

The airport also lacks parking spaces for and has no shaded waiting area. The facility was rehabilitated in 1982, except for the parking area which could only accommodate 100 to 129 vehicles as against a daily requirement for 1,700 vehicles.

"It can also be noted that the airport terminal is located near the highway unlike other airports where the terminal building is separated from the main highway. Other airports have their own special access road and cater only to the airport traffic. We have already a hard time managing the airport traffic. How much more for the vehicular traffic within our site?" Mr. Java said.

The ATO has proposed the ban of cargo and delivery trucks loaded with animals and construction materials passing the highway in front of the airport, but it has yet to receive notice from the local government.

Another burden is the exclusive use of the x-ray machine by PAL passengers.

The baggage of passengers from other airlines have to undergo the manual checking.

"It is really disgusting on the part of travelers but we are making the most of what we can do to improve the system of Iloilo airport in terms of infrastructure, personnel, facilities and services," Mr. Java said.

He also said that there is no definite plan as yet on the trunkline airport once the international standards become operational.

He added that there are investors who are planning to convert it into an export processing zone or commercial complex.

In Tacloban City, the ATO reported that the Daniel Z. Romualdez (DZR) airport has generated an income of P4.8 million during the first half of 2004, of which the highest collection of P1.6 million was in May.

The revenue came from parking space rental, landing and takeoff fees, terminal fee, and rental fees from concessionaires. The DZR airport serves between 200 and 350 passengers daily.

ATO Area Manager for Eastern Visayas Dalisay Muertegui told BusinessWorld that they are implementing strategies to improve revenue generation

She said they expect to collect more when the expansion project is completed this year. The project seeks to expand the airport by 200 hectares.

The existing runway covers only 9.6 hectares while the rest of the airport’s properties occupy 123.7 hectares.

kiretoce

June 24th, 2005, 04:21 PM

blueguy

June 24th, 2005, 05:56 PM

Wecky there will be a Centennial Boracay Cruise for 3 days and 2 nights this 7-9 August 2005, ...

wecky

June 24th, 2005, 09:26 PM

Got anymore photos? There's too much reading going on in this thread! Don't get me wrong, there are some very interesting and engaging articles, but one can only read so much for so long. Anyway, please keep up the good work on informing us about your very own corner of the Philippines! :okay:

Thanks! :colgate:

don't worry, Kiretoce ... be contend with readings at the moment. Chymera is busy with his study .. I'll be home this end week of July for CPU's Centennial .. I'll try my best to fill this thread with lots of Iloilo's photos. Be assured with that.

Cheers!

wecky

June 24th, 2005, 09:31 PM

Wecky there will be a Centennial Boracay Cruise for 3 days and 2 nights this 7-9 August 2005, ...

I'm going home for Centennial, Van. I don't know if other Centralians here in London and UK will be home as well. I kno that there are too many Centralinas from USA will be going home as well. Time a great reunion.

Van, I've already asked my aunt to get us centennial tickets for the great two-week activities. I'll be in Iloilo City for a month then. Hope I can see you there in our Centennial.

Cheers!

wecky

June 26th, 2005, 02:45 PM

Sarabia Manor Hotel goes online

SARABIA Manor Hotel & Convention Center, Iloilo City’s premier hotel and convention destination, takes Ilonggos to a detour to cyberspace with its all-new website, www.smxhotel.com.ph.

The new website features facts about the Sarabia Manor Hotel & Convention Center, its Banquets, Meetings and Convention facilities, plus Food and Beverage Activities and Events.

Hotel guests and website visitors can also send inquiries and feedback thru the website.

Images of Hotel Rooms and Suites, F&B Outlets and recreational facilities can also be viewed.

What’s more? Online reservation for both rooms and banquets are now available thru the new website! So if you want to know more about Sarabia Manor Hotel and Convention Center, log on to www.smxhotel.com.ph.

(from Panay News Online)

blueguy

June 26th, 2005, 05:41 PM

Got anymore photos? There's too much reading going on in this thread! Don't get me wrong, there are some very interesting and engaging articles, but one can only read so much for so long. Anyway, please keep up the good work on informing us about your very own corner of the Philippines! :okay:

Thanks! :colgate:

I have here some photos of our trip to Sicogon Island last May 2004. The island was once the destination before Boracay was discovered.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a97/van1975/DSC01876.jpg http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a97/van1975/DSC01866.jpg http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a97/van1975/DSC01834.jpg

wecky

June 26th, 2005, 09:44 PM

lovely pics, Van ... great Sicogon Island, indeed!

wecky

June 26th, 2005, 09:54 PM

Saturday, June 25, 2005
University is Smart's 10th Sweep school in Visayas

SMART Communications, Incorporated (Smart) inaugurated recently a wireless laboratory under the Smart Wireless Engineering Education Program (Sweep) in the University of San Agustin (USA).

In simple ceremonies, Smart officials led by Maria Hiyasmin F. Quinal, senior manager, Network Services Assurance for Visayas-Mindanao, turned over the wireless laboratory to USA president, Reverend Father Manuel Vergara.

Smart launched Sweep in 2003 to help schools raise the level of technology and engineering education in the country, particularly in the field of Electronics and Communications Engineering.

Sweep consists of two parts. The first is the wireless lab which houses various pieces of equipment from Smart's analog network such as radio cabinets, rectifier units, a battery bank, antennas and a computer control console.

The facility also contains a working GSM cell site that will not only provide additional coverage for the campus but can also be used as part of an on-the-job training program for students.

The second is a continuing education program under which Smart will periodically deploy its engineers to provide lectures and make presentations on various topics such an introduction to GSM technology, General Packet Radio Services, Short Message Services, Multi-media Message Services, Voice over Internet Protocol and Wireless Fidelity.

"We recognize that Smart is the leader in the telecommunications industry. Through Sweep, our teachers and students will greatly benefit from the technology transfer aspect of the program.

The Wireless Laboratory will contribute to the improvement of the school facilities, thus, enhancing the institutional image of the university," said engineer Maura P. Basco, dean of the College of Engineering and Architecture.

Other Smart partner-schools in Visayas are: University of Cebu, University of San Carlos, Don Bosco Technological Center, University of Negros Occidental Recoletos, University of Saint La Salle, Technological University of the Philippines, Western Visayas College of Science and Technology, and Holy Name University.

(from Sunstar Iloilo News Online)

wecky

June 26th, 2005, 09:56 PM

Saturday, June 25, 2005
Countryside's transformation seen in Kalahi-Cidss exhibit

AN EXHIBIT on the Kalahi-Cidss:KKB (Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services: Kapangyarihan at Kaunlaran sa Barangay) project in Western Visayas was shown recently at the 3rd floor of SM City Iloilo.

Fourteen municipalities joined the wweek-long exhibit which kicked off with a press conference and opening program graced by Zenaida Mabugat from the Office of the President-Western Visayas last June 13.

A media tour in Calinog, Iloilo, one of the areas of Kalahi-Cidss: KKB followed.

Participating municipalities were Janiuay, Maasin, Lambunao, Calinog, Barotac Viejo, Carles, Concepcion, San Rafael, Lemery, San Dionisio, all in Iloilo; Jamindan, Dumarao and Maayon in Capiz; and Cauayan in Negros Occidental.

The changes in Kalahi-Cidss: KKB areas were showcased in the exhibit that mainly used indigenous materials.

The exhibit was part of the Social Week celebration in Region 6.

The Central Philippine University, Iloilo Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office and AbsNet also joined the exhibit.

"We take pride of the fact that the initiative leading to the national celebration came from our region," said Edwin Lariza, chairperson of the Social Work Week celebration committee.

(from Sunstar Iloilo News Online)

wecky

June 26th, 2005, 09:58 PM

Saturday, June 25, 2005
LP youth gather in Iloilo City

YOUTH leaders in the City and Province of Iloilo will gather for the Basic Orientation on Liberal Democracy (Bold) seminar of the Kabataang Liberal ng Pilipinas (Kalipi), the youth wing of the Liberal Party, June 26, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Sarabia Manor Hotel.

More than 300 participants are expected to attend the seminar, the primary requirement for joining the youth wing.

To be discussed is the ideology behind Kalipi and the LP, which is liberal democracy; the history, programs and policies, and current status of Kalipi and the LP.

The organizers will also give a youth situationer, and overview of the situation of Liberal Democratic forces in the Philippines, the City and the Province.

Lex Tupas, Kalipi national vice president for students, said he asked to hold a seminar in Iloilo to formally establish the youth wing's chapter in the province.

"I am proud and honored to be the founder and adviser for both Iloilo City and Iloilo province chapters," he said.

Tupas, son of Governor Niel Tupas, was also active in the successful re-establishment of the Quezon City chapter of Kalipi last May.

"I am excited that Kalipi Iloilo will serve as the voice of the youth. It is a sort of an umbrella organization because it has members from political youth organizations, socio civic organizations, school organizations and community organizations," Tupas said.

Among the leaders of Kalipi who will attend the Bold seminar National Secretary General Jan-argy Tolentino, area chair for NCR Eric Caliboso, and Women's Committee Chair Daye Tolentino, and convener of the National Student's League Carlo Madrid.

Other speakers are: former councilor Vicente Gengos of LP-Iloilo; Board Member Jeneda Salcedo, who will give the local situation report, and Professor Lemuel Cacho of De la Salle University who will give the talk on the basic principles of liberal democracy.

Messages of support will be given by Deputy Speaker Noynoy Aquino and LP secretary general and Kalipi National president Representative Miles Roces.

Governor Tupas will give the closing remarks. Dr. Ronald Meinardus, resident representative of the Friedrich Naumann Stiftung (FNST), the foundation for liberalism, will give a solidarity message. FNST is the partner of Kalipi in many of its Bold and training seminars.

An oath-taking of officers and new members will follow.

The chapter presidents of Kalipi Iloilo Province and Iloilo City are Mayor Raul Tupas and Rudolph Ganzon, respectively.

(from Sunstar Iloilo News Online)

wecky

June 26th, 2005, 11:14 PM

President Arroyo to grace Fil-Hispanic Week celeb

President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo will be the guest of honor for the formal opening of the Filipino-Hispanic Week celebration in this city on June 30, 2005.

Elena J. Golez, chair of the celebration's working committee, said the President would be here together with Spanish Ambassador Ignacio Sagaz and some other dignitaries to strengthen the bond of friendship between the Philippines and Spain.

“It is a fact that Spain's colonization of the Philippines has infused some good things to the Filipino culture, religion and lifestyle that unfortunately have not been recognized until now,” said Golez.

“Since Filipino children learn only the other side of the Spanish colonization that perhaps needs some review, it is high time that they also know how Spain has enriched our language, our culture and our lifestyle," she added.

This, she said, is also one of the very objectives of the Fil-Hispanic Week, during which school children will be invited to witness the Noche de Gala that will feature performances by the Centro Flamenco Dancers, Troubadours and the Kawilihan Dance Troupe.

(from Panay News Online)

overtureph

June 27th, 2005, 12:18 AM

An article taken from the Philippine Daily Inquirer

ANALYSIS
Friendship Day revives RP-Spain historical ties

First posted 02:13am (Mla time) June 27, 2005
By Amando Doronila
Inquirer News Service

Editor's Note: Published on Page A1 of the June 27, 2005 issue of the Philippine Daily Inquirer

A WEARY nation refocuses its attention this week from the political turmoil in Imperial Manila to its glorious past as it commemorates the first Spanish-Filipino Friendship Day in Iloilo City, the last capital of the Spanish Empire in Asia, which the Spanish Governor-General Diego de los Rios surrendered to the Filipino Revolutionary Army on Dec. 23, 1898.

The commemoration, aimed at reviving the waning historical relations between the Philippines and Spain, will reach its climax on June 30 with ceremonies at Iloilo's Plaza Libertad. It will be graced by President Macapagal-Arroyo and other notables from Manila, including Sen. Edgardo Angara, author of the Spanish-Filipino Friendship Day legislation, Senate President Franklin Drilon and Spanish Ambassador Ignacio Sagaz.

June 30 was designated as friendship day because it was on that day that President Emilio Aguinaldo of the First Philippine Republic issued a decree in 1899 proclaiming that the 33 Spanish soldiers who surrendered
Print this story
Send this story
Write the editor
Reprint this article
View other stories

to Filipino troops in Baler (Senator Angara's hometown) in Quezon--after a siege that lasted 11 months--"should not be considered as prisoners but, on the contrary, as friends, and as a consequence, they shall be furnished, by the General Staff, with the necessary safe conduct to enable them to return to their country."

While the decree recognized the bravery of the Spanish soldiers who defended for 341 days the last Spanish garrison in the Philippines at the Baler church against a siege by a larger Filipino revolutionary force, it also brought credit to the gallantry and to the nobility of the Filipino revolutionary leadership during the twilight of the Spanish empire.

The Baler siege has been considered by historians as one of the longest sieges in modern military history. It has been celebrated in Spain as an epic saga in its proud military tradition.

The names of the 33 survivors have become part of Spanish military lore as "Los Ultimos de Filipinas"; and a song, "Los Ultimos," has been dedicated to them and continues to be popular today in Spain. The song is played in restaurants by Spanish bands.

Of interest to the Filipinos is the fact that the Baler garrison held for 11 months after the capitulation of the Spanish capital in Manila on Aug 13, 1898 to invading American forces. The US intervention snatched from Aguinaldo the opportunity to capture Manila with Filipino forces poised in a siege of the capital.

Transfer to Iloilo

Iloilo entered the picture in December 1898 when Gen. Diego de los Rios, who was appointed by Madrid as governor-general after the fall of Manila, transferred the seat of government to Iloilo City, as a temporary capital, already the colony's second most important city as well as its cultural capital.

The choice of Iloilo as the last capital after Manila was natural and followed the logic of its history. Iloilo, with its deep water port, was during the second half of the 19th century, the early enclave of European capitalism and the colony's embryonic links to the emerging globalized trading system long before the term "globalization" was in vogue.

De los Rios surrendered the capital to the mayor of Iloilo City on Dec. 23. The Revolutionary Army led by Gen. Martin Delgado, had by then encircled Iloilo City.

Following the departure of the Spanish garrison for Zamboanga, Delgado's troops, reinforced by expeditionary forces from Luzon led by Gen. Ananias Diokno, made a triumphal entry into Iloilo, according to the book by the American historian John Foreman, "to the strains of music and waving of banners."

General Delgado renamed Plaza de Alfonso Doce as "Plaza Libertad," the center of this week's commemoration and the site of political rallies.

The triumphant Visayan Revolutionary Army was soon to experience American perfidy that made a victim of Aguinaldo who was excluded by the American troops from taking part in the capture of Manila on the pretext that they were aiding the Filipinos in gaining their independence from Spain.

Americans arrive

The dust of the Iloilo victory march had hardly settled when on Dec. 27, a 3,000-strong American military force led by Gen. Henry Miller was transported by a naval flotilla to the Iloilo harbor to demand the surrender of the city.

According to Foreman, Miller's force had been dispatched to Iloilo after the signing of the Treaty of Paris on Dec. 10, 1898, through which Spain ceded the colony, apparently under duress, to the United States, to make a demonstration of American might while the treaty was pending ratification by the US Senate.

While waiting for instructions from Washington, Miller bought time and made overtures with the Filipino leaders in Iloilo to allow his men to go ashore "to have a promenade" of the city's amenities, already known as "the Queen City of the South."

The memoirs of Capt. Epifanio Concepcion, an aide to General Delgado, gives an account of the negotiations between Filipino authorities and General Miller.

According to the memoirs, Miller said, "I request permission to go down to Iloilo as friends " in representation of General E. Otis, the commander of US forces in the Philippines. Miller wanted to "take a carriage to visit Jaro and Molo."

But the Ilongo official, Jovito Yusay, said: "We are sorry we can't answer the request without the consent of President Aguinaldo."

The Visayans, however, allowed the officers to take only a promenade. The Americans were not interested merely in a promenade. They wanted their officers "to help in the administration of the customs house run by Filipinos. The Americans said there were many complaints against customs for "inefficiency," etc.

Insult resented

A Visayan official, Franciso Soriano resented the insult. "We are not a sack of sugar which can be bought by American dollars," he told them. "We have struggled for our liberty like you. We will continue with the struggle until we triumph or die. You see, we are not Guinea slaves who can be bought without our consent."

Miller begged leave. Another conference was set for Feb. 12 1899.

Meanwhile, Filipino troops from Sta. Barbara, General Delgado's headquarters, and from all of Panay were mobilized and massed in Jaro.

The Americans did not wait for the deadline to lapse. Miller issued an ultimatum. He said all Filipino forces should surrender by 5 p.m. of Feb. 12, otherwise "Iloilo will be bombarded."

Miller said that American forces had been fired at by Filipino troops in Fort San Pedro, resulting in the wounding of an American Marine.

A US flotilla, composed of the warships Baltimore, Concord, Boston and Petrel, which lay at anchor in Guimaras Strait, began to shell Iloilo upon the expiration of the deadline. On Feb. 14, American troops landed at Iloilo and took it by storm.

Thus started the war of independence in the Visayas against the United States. Filipino troops fought the Americans in pitched battles in towns around Iloilo City. The resistance continued until December 1900 when Delgado surrendered.

sandrin

June 27th, 2005, 02:52 AM

sugarboy

June 27th, 2005, 04:55 AM

I have here some photos of our trip to Sicogon Island last May 2004. The island was once the destination before Boracay was discovered.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a97/van1975/DSC01876.jpg http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a97/van1975/DSC01866.jpg http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a97/van1975/DSC01834.jpg

van, great photos! i've been looking for sicogon photos for a long time. anyway, just wanted to know...how did you go about booking a trip to sicogon? is there a manila based sales office?

chymera00

June 27th, 2005, 04:14 PM

I have here some photos of our trip to Sicogon Island last May 2004. The island was once the destination before Boracay was discovered.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a97/van1975/DSC01876.jpg http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a97/van1975/DSC01866.jpg http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a97/van1975/DSC01834.jpg

wow ... Sicogon looks great.. thanks for sharing the pics van ^^

blueguy

June 27th, 2005, 05:51 PM

van, great photos! i've been looking for sicogon photos for a long time. anyway, just wanted to know...how did you go about booking a trip to sicogon? is there a manila based sales office?

Sorry to say but there are actually no booking office for the trip that I know. We went there all by ourselves. Rented a motorized banca that went directly to the island. We just paid P500 for the beach rental which is actually almost the entire Island...3x bigger than Boracay with lush tropical forest,. if you want, there are horses so that you can trek the entire island. We brought in tents and the island caretaker provided light and fresh water up to 12midnight only. Our group went sharing chikas all throughout the night under the moonlight with bonfires..Very OK talaga...You can ask the caretaker, they have all the fresh marine catch which you can buy and have it cooked with extra cost..There are also drinks..beer...soda...

If you see in one picture...there is this small island that you can cross it during low tide on foot...and on that island?...wow teeming with life as in forest na forest...dami pang shells sa shoreline...

Sicogon Island is the set for Gloria Diaz's "Ang pinakamagandang Hayop sa Balat ng Lupa." Actually famous artists go there with their yatch...a week before we went there Dolphy went there with his family on board a yatch. It is a private island now owned by the governor of negros occidental...there are actually settlements in the island with about 2 barangays...and what's best is that the locals don't mingle with the guest.

blueguy

June 27th, 2005, 05:57 PM

I found this from another forum. I don't know if these were posted here before:
elusive girls from IloIlo

http://www.montinola.org/pics/skyscrapers/iloilo/hotbabes2.jpg
http://www.montinola.org/pics/skyscrapers/iloilo/hotbabes1.jpg

Sorry Sandrin but those girls are Gwen Garci and Jen Rosendahl from the group VIVA Hotbabes...

sugarboy

June 27th, 2005, 10:54 PM

Sorry to say but there are actually no booking office for the trip that I know. We went there all by ourselves. Rented a motorized banca that went directly to the island. We just paid P500 for the beach rental which is actually almost the entire Island...3x bigger than Boracay with lush tropical forest,. if you want, there are horses so that you can trek the entire island. We brought in tents and the island caretaker provided light and fresh water up to 12midnight only. Our group went sharing chikas all throughout the night under the moonlight with bonfires..Very OK talaga...You can ask the caretaker, they have all the fresh marine catch which you can buy and have it cooked with extra cost..There are also drinks..beer...soda...

If you see in one picture...there is this small island that you can cross it during low tide on foot...and on that island?...wow teeming with life as in forest na forest...dami pang shells sa shoreline...

Sicogon Island is the set for Gloria Diaz's "Ang pinakamagandang Hayop sa Balat ng Lupa." Actually famous artists go there with their yatch...a week before we went there Dolphy went there with his family on board a yatch. It is a private island now owned by the governor of negros occidental...there are actually settlements in the island with about 2 barangays...and what's best is that the locals don't mingle with the guest.

Thanks for the info Van. Sicogon used to be an exclusive resort before in the 70s. That's why I was asking if there was a booking office. Nice pics! Thanks for sharing.

Virtute

June 28th, 2005, 01:21 AM

I found this from another forum. I don't know if these were posted here before:
elusive girls from IloIlo

http://www.montinola.org/pics/skyscrapers/iloilo/hotbabes2.jpg
http://www.montinola.org/pics/skyscrapers/iloilo/hotbabes1.jpg

I took these pics in 2003 in a club called Vega. The girls were there because they were promoting a beer called Lone Star.

Vega was a nice club. We were there usually 3-4 times a week since the manager was a friend of ours.

wecky

June 28th, 2005, 05:52 PM

Iloilo City hosts 2nd NMYL nat’l council meet

The Iloilo City Government hosted the National Movement of Young Legislators (NMYL) 2nd Quarter National Council (NC) Meeting and Team Building Activities last June 24-26, 2005 at the Iloilo Business Hotel here, and at Raymen Beach Resort in Guimaras.

NMYL is comprised of councilors, vice mayors, board members and vice governors all over the Philippines who are 35 years old and below at the time of their election to office.
During their meeting last April 15, the group decided to hold a team building activity to coincide with the regular quarterly meeting scheduled this June.

NMYL is headed by its President, Quezon City Councilor Julian M.L. Coseteng, son of former Senator Nikki Coseteng and Iloilo City Councilor Julienne “Jam Jam” Baronda as its Executive Vice president. The other officers are Board Member Pearl Padaca of Tarlac (VP for Luzon), Board Member Esteban Contreras of Capiz (VP for Visayas), Board Member Ma. Carmen Zamora-Apsay of Compostela Valley (VP for Mindanao), Councilor Arvin Tolentino of Pasay City (VP for NCR), Councilor Manuel Jose Dalipe of Zamboanga City (Secretary General), Board Member Angelo Molina of Camarines Norte (Deputy Secretary General), Councilor Ronald Alan Nalupta of Batac, Ilocos Norte (Treasurer), Board Member Carlo Loreto of Leyte (Asst. Treasurer), Board Member Von Mark Mendoza of Pangasinan and Councilor Claire Cecilia of Alicia, Isabela as Auditors, and Councilor Orly Amit of samal Island, Davao and Denis Apacible of Nasugbu, Batangas as PROs.

blueguy

June 28th, 2005, 06:07 PM

I took these pics in 2003 in a club called Vega. The girls were there because they were promoting a beer called Lone Star.

Vega was a nice club. We were there usually 3-4 times a week since the manager was a friend of ours.

Sorry Virtute but Club Vega closed down...

Virtute

June 28th, 2005, 10:08 PM

Sorry Virtute but Club Vega closed down...

It was a nice club. According to the manager the owner got married, he just didn't have time for it anymore. He still has his Bus business btw.

chymera00

June 29th, 2005, 10:59 AM

WOW!
This is so cool, an Aerial of some parts of Iloilo, Guimaras Island, Negros Island, and Cebu island. Too bad the area in Iloilo is a bit cloudy, can't see the city as clear as say, Bacolod

This is the small version:
http://infomart.soest.hawaii.edu/Landsat_Data/Philippines/browse_114_053_08_04_2003.jpg

This is the large version (RECOMMENDED!!!!)
JPEG full-resolution (4.65 MB) (http://infomart.soest.hawaii.edu/Landsat_Data/Philippines/114_053_08_04_2003.jpg)

chymera00

June 29th, 2005, 11:03 AM

Wednesday, June 29, 2005
Arroyo to visit Iloilo Thursday

PRESIDENT Macapagal-Arroyo will arrive Thursday in Iloilo, the city and the province that gave her one of her highest vote margins, amid mixed reactions on her admission that she talked to an election official during the May 2004 elections.

The President will grace the highlight of the Philippine-Spain Friendship Day celebration Thursday at the Iloilo Provincial Capitol.

Spanish officials headed by Spanish Ambassador Ignacio Sagaz will grace the two-day affair, which starts Wednesday.

She will also formally open the P47-million Jalandoni Bridge, the project initiated by her ally Senate President Franklin Drilon.

The 170-meter bridge spans through the Iloilo River to connect Gen. Luna St. to Barangay Nabitasan in La Paz.

In Mandurriao, Iloilo City Arroyo will grace the inauguration of the P42-million Seamen's Hospital Iloilo of the Associated Marine Officers' and Seamen's Union of the Philippines (Amosup).

The Iloilo Seamen's Hospital is a satellite facility of the Amosup and one of the three hospitals under its Family Medical and Dental Plan. The other two are located in Manila and Cebu.

The project is in line with Amosup's and their Seamen's Hospital's vision of creating satellite facilities offering quality health care nationwide. It is accredited by the Department of Health (DOH) standards as a secondary hospital.

noli

June 29th, 2005, 12:13 PM

Hi Wecky,

Ever since, I've really been curious as to the feasibility and viability of building bridges to connect these three islands (actually four) from Panay to Cebu. Since the governors of these provinces are in agreement as to its possibility, then it's good news. I am thinking, however, that possibly they can start this bridge building program as soon as this region has incorporated itself as a federal state. This way there will only one voice backed by economies of scale who will do the negotiation with the potential investors (most probably the Japanese MITI).

whyte

June 29th, 2005, 07:00 PM

:wave::wave::wave::wave::wave::wave::wave:
greetings to all.great pics and articles as usual.
AUGUST 4 CPU ENGG homecoming.hopefully i can attend

laffer_077

June 30th, 2005, 03:08 AM

Hello to all! :) I'm a new member of this forum. Its nice to see a lot of Ilonggos here..:) How is Iloilo nowadays? Its been a while since I've visited my hometown.

chymera00

June 30th, 2005, 06:13 AM

Welcome to the "Iloilo City and Province Thread" laffer, we hope you visit this forum often and hopefully be active here :)

Hello to all! :) I'm a new member of this forum. Its nice to see a lot of Ilonggos here..:) How is Iloilo nowadays? Its been a while since I've visited my hometown.

chymera00

June 30th, 2005, 06:17 AM

Smallville Business Center, Mandurriao
One of the new bustling spots of Iloilo... Right now, there's a hotel, some trendy clubs, bars, and a restaurant, a Medicus Condo-Clinic, and some commercial establishments ... there is still room for more development :)

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/chymera00/iloilocitypics/smallville.jpg

Satellitle Image of Iloilo
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/chymera00/iloilocitypics/visayasaerial.jpg

For long I've been neglecting to post pictures of the province ... Sometime this week I'll be 'flooding' this forum with them hehe ... so expect some activity

chymera00

June 30th, 2005, 09:27 AM

more satellite pics:
Zoomed Out Shot
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/chymera00/iloilocitypics/iloilosatellitepic.bmp

Zoomed in Shot of the city itself:
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y54/chymera00/iloilocitypics/iloilosatellitepic2.bmp

lex_99

June 30th, 2005, 12:20 PM

Hello all,

Im back :) Im actually Centralian_2k4 but changed my name to Lex_99 coz its kinda long Hehe... Anyways, Im sorry for not so active in the past month or should I say weeks, just have so many things and deadlines to beat, but never miss to visit the "Iloilo City and Province Thread". Thanks chemyra for the satellite image of Iloilo. That was really cool! Where did you get that? Im also excited to see the pix you promised. Well wait for that.

Hi Wecky! See you at the Centennial Celebrations!

sandrin

June 30th, 2005, 08:13 PM

Iloilo execs throw support behind Arroyo

First posted 11:56pm (Mla time) June 30, 2005
By Nestor P. Burgos Jr.
Inquirer News Service

Editor's Note: Published on page A17 of the July 01, 2005 issue of the Philippine Daily Inquirer
ILOILO CITY-Embattled President Macapagal-Arroyo yesterday rallied Ilonggos to her side, thanking them for their continued support for her administration amid calls for her resignation.
"Salamat sa suporta ninyo (Thank you very much for your support)," the President said as she spoke at the Iloilo provincial capitol during the formal opening of Philippine-Spanish Friendship Week.
The President thanked Iloilo officials who were among her staunchest allies "for your expressions of support."
These include Iloilo Gov. Niel Tupas Sr. and Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas, president of the 117-member League of Cities of the Philippines.
She also expressed her gratitude to Senate President Franklin Drilon, Justice Secretary Raul Gonzalez and Land Reform Secretary Rene Villa, all Ilonggos.
The President again thanked Ilonggos for giving her around half a million votes in last year's elections, her second biggest margin against the late actor Fernando Poe Jr.,
next only to Cebu, which gave her a million votes.
Tupas and Drilon in separate speeches expressed their support for her administration.
Tupas reiterated his "unqualified support" for the Arroyo administration prompting a 20-second standing ovation from hundreds of guests and spectators.
"Iloilo gave you an overwhelming mandate in the last elections and that mandate has not diminished an ounce," Tupas said as the President kept on smiling.
For his part, Drilon said the President may transfer her office to Iloilo if she wanted to.
With a report from Raj Padilla, PDI Visayas Bureau

I'm Proud to be an Ilonggo

wecky

June 30th, 2005, 10:09 PM

wecky

June 30th, 2005, 10:11 PM

wecky

June 30th, 2005, 10:13 PM

Sorry to say but there are actually no booking office for the trip that I know. We went there all by ourselves. Rented a motorized banca that went directly to the island. We just paid P500 for the beach rental which is actually almost the entire Island...3x bigger than Boracay with lush tropical forest,. if you want, there are horses so that you can trek the entire island. We brought in tents and the island caretaker provided light and fresh water up to 12midnight only. Our group went sharing chikas all throughout the night under the moonlight with bonfires..Very OK talaga...You can ask the caretaker, they have all the fresh marine catch which you can buy and have it cooked with extra cost..There are also drinks..beer...soda...

If you see in one picture...there is this small island that you can cross it during low tide on foot...and on that island?...wow teeming with life as in forest na forest...dami pang shells sa shoreline...

Sicogon Island is the set for Gloria Diaz's "Ang pinakamagandang Hayop sa Balat ng Lupa." Actually famous artists go there with their yatch...a week before we went there Dolphy went there with his family on board a yatch. It is a private island now owned by the governor of negros occidental...there are actually settlements in the island with about 2 barangays...and what's best is that the locals don't mingle with the guest.

thanks for the info Van ... hope to visit the island someday ... heard a lot of good things about Sicogon, way, way before Boracay pa ... my mom loved it there, she once told me. Mas nami daw siya.

wecky

June 30th, 2005, 10:15 PM

wecky

June 30th, 2005, 10:17 PM

Hello to all! :) I'm a new member of this forum. Its nice to see a lot of Ilonggos here..:) How is Iloilo nowadays? Its been a while since I've visited my hometown.

WELCOME, LAFFER_077 ... Enjoy the Iloilo Forum ... hope to see you often. Cheers!

wecky

June 30th, 2005, 10:19 PM

:wave::wave::wave::wave::wave::wave::wave:
greetings to all.great pics and articles as usual.
AUGUST 4 CPU ENGG homecoming.hopefully i can attend

Whyte .. attend ka na para sadya .. I've heard so many brilliant activities in the making. I'll be home by last week of July as well .. hope to see you there in Iloilo. Cheers!

wecky

June 30th, 2005, 10:21 PM

wecky

June 30th, 2005, 10:23 PM

wecky

June 30th, 2005, 10:29 PM

here's some more news info for you Sandrin and to the rest ...

Ilonggo execs assure GMA of “love and support”

Senate President Franklin Drilon and Governor Niel Tupas Sr. assured President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo that Ilonggos are behind her administration.

Drilon and Tupas asserted this during the commemoration of the Philippine-Spain Friendship Day yesterday at the Capitol grounds notwithstanding the mounting calls for Arroyo to step down over claims she “influenced” the 2004 elections.

Drilon even recommended that the president transfer her office here.
“Mrs. President, you are loved by the entire Filipino people but the Ilonggos love you the best… If you want, you can transfer the Office of the President in Iloilo. Wala kang problema dito sa Iloilo,” Drilon said.

“Iloilo has never wavered in its support for your administration,” said Tupas, adding that the president has the trust and confidence of the Ilonggos.

This was shown by the presence of majority of Iloilo’s board members, municipal mayors, government employees, and barangay captains who were present at the president’s activities yesterday.

Also, the governor presented the resolution of the Provincial Board of Iloilo and of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP) – Iloilo Chapter expressing full support to the administration of Arroyo.

GMA HAPPY IN WESTERN VISAYAS

The President appeared to have earned a new lease in her political life after she was met by a standing ovation and cheers from a crowd composed of visiting Spanish dignitaries, cabinet members and local government officials on the occasion of the Fil-Hispanic Friendship Day celebration at the capitol grounds.

In introducing her, Senate President Franklin Drilon even teasingly asked her to relocate the seat of power in Iloilo.

In saying so, the Liberal Party chairman has apparently renewed his commitment to the President in the midst of the election fraud controversy now hounding her administration –a gesture Mrs. Arroyo humbly acknowledged.

The Liberal Party is one of the influential political parties which is composed of the administration coalition in both the Senate and House of Representatives.

Aside from thanking Drilon for his continued support, the President also expressed gratitude to Iloilo City mayor Jerry Treñas who has rallied all the other city mayors in the country behind the President. Treñas heads the League of Cities that recently passed a resolution of support for the embattled President.

When asked whether Iloilo is ready to host the Office of the President, the former student of the President in Ateneo de Manila University answered in the affirmative.

‘We can be ready for it if necessary,’ Treñas said.

Iloilo vice governor Obet Armada however considered Drilon’s suggestion as odd.

‘The seat of government shall be in the country’s capital, in our case, Manila. It is a requirement of international laws. So are all the embassies,” said Armada, a staunch ally of the President since her days in the Senate.

In a related development, Antique Gov. Salvacion Perez said that she heartily welcomes the suggestion of Sen. Drilon that GMA hold office in the Visayas.

“We Visayans love her and believe in her leadership,” said Perez.

On the other hand, Iloilo provincial administrator Manuel Mejorada said that Drilon was merely suggesting that the president hold office in Iloilo but if the president decides, “she can transfer the seat of government to Iloilo. We would welcome that because as seat of government, we are certain to achieve faster development,” said Mejorada in a text message.

From the Iloilo provincial capitol, the President’s party proceeded to the Archbishop’s Residence for a courtesy call on Jaro archbishop Angel Lagdameo, vice president of the influential Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines.

Yesterday, the President also inaugurated the P55-million Jalandoni Bridge which connects downtown Iloilo to La Paz district and the Seamen’s Hospital of the Philippines (Amosup) in Mandurriao district.

(from Panay News Online)

wecky

June 30th, 2005, 10:31 PM

DPWH engrs’ hold nat’l meet today

All district engineers of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) throughout the country will converge in Iloilo City today for the 2005 Midyear National Convention under the auspices of the District Engineers League of the Philippines (DELP).

This was announced by Alfredo Panaguiton, district engineer of the Iloilo Second Engineering District, who is also the DELP president for Western Visayas and convention chairman.

DPWH Secretary Hermogenes Ebdane, Jr. will be the keynote speaker of the two-day event held at the Sarabia Manor and Convention Center.
The convention will have for its theme, “DELP Beating the Odds on the Ground.”

Engineer Mauro Bravo Jr., district engineer of Bukidnon Second Engineering District and DELP national president said that about 200 guests will be attending the convention that will end on July 2.

The convention will tackle various issues affecting the DPWH such as budgeting, road maintenance funding and ethical standards for public officials.

DPWH regional director for Western Visayas Rolando M. Asis is hopeful that the convention will highlight the role of the infrastructure agency in attaining the ten-point agenda for governance of President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.

Mayor Jerry Treñas of Iloilo City and Governor Niel D.Tupas will welcome the delegates at the opening program.

DPWH Assistant Secretary Raul Asis will discuss the DPWH rationalization plan.

Other speakers include DPWH directors Luis Mamitag and Rodolfo Puno and Commissioners Nicasio Conti of the presidential Anti-Graft Commission.

(from Panay News Online)

wecky

June 30th, 2005, 10:33 PM

Fil-Spanish Day start of era of change, renewal

President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo hailed the observance of Fil-Spanish Friendship Day in Iloilo as beginning of an era of renewal and change. She said Filipino-Spanish friendship must not only be about the past but also about a continuing search for exciting opportunities.

The President, who was here yesterday, said she was happy to celebrate the occasion in Iloilo, as Iloilo represents loving, kinship, friendship in the Filipino-Spanish relationships.

Arroyo lauded the fact that the Philippines gets the biggest share in Spain’s Official Development Assistance (ODA) in Asia, which can strengthen cultural links, like putting up of technical and vocational schools for the out-of-school-youths.

The economic links, the President said, can be strengthened by Spain’s funding and transfer of technology on alternative resource energy, like wind and solar energies, which are crucial to the economy of the country.
She noted that the crisis in energy has yet to be totally resolved and the development of alternative energy resources in the Philippines through Spain’s help can make solutions accessible.

Arroyo lamented the ever increasing price of oil in the world market which hurts the Philippine economy, but added, that Spain’s strong relations with the country is providential in accelerating the economy.

On the sidelight, she cited her government’s efforts in managing the fiscal resources of the country in order for it to get out of the vicious cycle of borrowing and instead, rely on ourselves to recover, with the help of the legislators, foremost of whom was Senate President Franklin Drilon.

Meanwhile, Arroyo, as in her previous visits to Iloilo, profusely thanked the people and the local officials for their unwavering support to her in the midst of the critical times the country is going through.

(from Panay News Online)

wecky

June 30th, 2005, 10:35 PM

TRANSPORT COMPANIES ASKED TO OPEN PUERTO PRINCESA - ILOILO ROUTE

http://www.panaynews.com.ph/people.htm

(from Panay News Online)

wecky

June 30th, 2005, 10:45 PM

ICSEC-Kaplan launched in Iloilo City

The world leader in test preparation ICSEC (International Cultural Studies and Education Corporation)-Kaplan was formally launched last May 24, 2005 (Tuesday), 8:00 a.m. at ICSEC-Kaplan Educational Center in Molo, Iloilo City.

Standing from left: The staff for operations John Owen Quilla, Leah Gabitanan, and Giovanni Regacho, Dorm Coordinator/Accountant Genalyn Matulac, Marketing Assistants Myra Acdol, Arlyn Umadhay, and Honeylet Valiente, staff for operation Randolf Maambong. (Seated from left) Iloilo Academic Coordinator Ms. Joanne Near, Iloilo Center Manager Ms. Mary Ann Lo, National Marketing Director Mr. Marx Mella, Iloilo Center Director Ms. Jonalyn Lim, and Iloilo Managing Partner Mr. Johnson Lim
Present to grace the ribbon cutting ceremony were ICSEC-Kaplan Chairman & CEO Mr. George U. Lim, Iloilo Center Director Ms. Jonalyn Lim, Brother Andy, Kaplan US Senior Manager for Int'l Business Development Mr. Tony McCormac, Kaplan US Vice-President for Int'l. Business Development Mr. David Stremba, Iloilo City Vice-Mayor Hon. Guillermo dela Llana, Iloilo City Mayor Hon. Jerry Treñas and Iloilo City Councilor Hon. Ramon Cua Locsin , invited guests from different sectors of government offices related to education programs such as DepEd, CHEd, TESDA, PRC, POEA, PNA, Medical Society; College Deans, School Principals, Chief Nurses, Bank Managers, Business Partners in Media, Suppliers, and ICSEC-Kaplan's students & instructors.

The Iloilo team: (starting from left) ICSEC-Kaplan instructor Mr. Christian Ilustre, QC/Business Development Director Mr. Erwin Gatchalian, staff for operation John Owen Quilla (partly hidden), mktg. assistants Honeylet Valiente , Myra Acdol & Arlyn Umadhay, Dorm Coordinator/Accountant Ms. Genalyn Matulac, Iloilo Academic Coordinator Ms. Joanne Near, Managing Partner of Iloilo Center Mr. Johnson Lim, Iloilo Center Director Ms. Jonalyn Lim, Kaplan US Senior Manager for Int’l Business Development Mr. Tony McCormac, Kaplan US Vice-President for Int’l. Business Development Mr. David Stremba, Staff for Operation Giovanni Regacho, ICSEC-Kaplan Chairman & CEO Mr. George U. Lim and Iloilo Center Manager Ms. Mary Ann Lo
Kaplan Officer Mr. David Stremba & ICSEC-Kaplan's CEO Mr. George Lim took part in a mini press conference attended by various press people from print, radio & TV which was held at ICSEC-Kaplan's conference room. Mr. Christian Ilustre (ICSEC-Kaplan instructor) then conducted a seminar on Kaplan programs specifically NCLEX while Mr. Tony McCormac talked about the latest development on the new generation TOEFL, other upcoming courses, and other related issues in the industry. ICSEC-Kaplan's National Marketing Director Mr. Marx Mella also arrived on the latter part of the day to join the occasion.

International Cultural Studies & Education Corporation (ICSEC) was formed in 1993 with the mission to train and educate students to become responsible and well rounded individuals that shall lead and contribute to the country's positive growth. The knowledge and skills internalized by ICSEC'S graduates can be attributed to the high degree of quality employed by the institution and reinforced by its focus on coherence, depth and urgency. The institution's commitment is to develop its students, equip them with the skills to be leaders and to change events for the betterment of the external environment.

At the Iloilo Airport (from left): Vice-President for Int’l. Business Development Mr. David Stremba and Senior Manager for Int’l Business Development Mr. Tony McCormac both from Kaplan USA, ICSEC-Kaplan Chairman & CEO Mr. George U. Lim and QC/Business Development Director Mr. Erwin Gatchalian were welcomed by Iloilo Center Director Ms. Jonalyn Lim, Iloilo Managing Partner Mr. Johnson Lim and Iloilo Center Manager Ms. Mary Ann Lo.
The institution's aim likewise is to foster mutual relationships among groups and cultures. In the world now, the trend is in global economic integration brought about by market forces and technological innovations. The institution's priorities place itself highly to be able to create and spearhead borderless opportunities for their students. With these supports, ICSEC graduates, with the assistance of ICSEC and its partners find their niche wherever they may be in the future.

ICSEC holds the exclusive license to Kaplan Educational Centers (USA). ICSEC is as well over a decade of experience delivering world-class tests preparation programs. As the group believes in the potential power of education, it has invested into this side of the business that many diversified groups avoid entering into. The Kaplan Educational system in the country has been a propelling force in sending Filipino students for higher education, professional training and career opportunities outside the Philippines. Its various joint venture programs have been initiated to establish strong linkages with educational partners in the Philippines and consequently with other groups abroad. This program aims to combine ICSEC-Kaplan efforts with key people in industry who share the same convictions in education and the actualization of the human potential. As its graduates find their niche in the world, it is invigorated that its aims are actualized.

The ribbon cutting ceremony with (from left) ICSEC-Kaplan Chairman & CEO Mr. George U. Lim, Iloilo Center Director Ms. Jonalyn Lim, Brother Andy, Kaplan US Senior Manager for Int’l Business Development Mr. Tony McCormac, Kaplan US Vice-President for Int’l. Business Development Mr. David Stremba, Iloilo City Vice-Mayor Guillermo dela Llana, Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas and Iloilo City Councilor Ramon Cua Locsin.

Since 1938, Kaplan has helped more students for university entrance and professional licensing exams than any other company in the world. Kaplan offers test preparation courses for more than 30 exams to help students and professionals increase the test scores they need for college professional school, business, school law school and medical school. Kaplan offers far more than test preparation with over 180 permanent centers and 1200 classroom sites throughout the U.S. and overseas. Kaplan provides university admission, counseling and career services as well as customized study programs for universities and business. Please visit their website at www.kaplan.com .

In addition, Kaplan is an educational subsidiary of the Washington Post Company, one of the world's most respected information companies. They also work closely to create college and graduate admission guides with sister company Newsweek International, one of the world's eminent news magazines. As one of the leading educational service providers in the U.S.A., Kaplan has helped individuals accomplish their academic, professional and career goals.

During the presscon: (from left) QC/Business Development Director Mr. Erwin Gatchalian, Kaplan US Senior Manager for Int’l Business Development Mr. Tony McCormac, Kaplan US Vice-President for Int’l. Business Development Mr. David Stremba, ICSEC-Kaplan Chairman & CEO Mr. George U. Lim
ICSEC-Kaplan Educational Centers Nationwide provide their students with modern air conditioned facilities, active classrooms interactions and excellent learning laboratories in which they can get unlimited access on the video equipments and computer use. Audio room for counseling, gatherings, meetings and study area. A multimedia library that let students borrow books from the different courses that the center provides and offers Kaplan Home Study Kit. ICSEC offers FREE Center Pass and FREE test drive. ICSEC-Kaplan gives free counseling, career consultation to pre-enrollees and for those people who just want to know more about what ICSEC-Kaplan can offer to them. Regularly, ‘free' weekly seminars are conducted every Thursdays & Fridays at 5 pm and Saturdays at 10am. The Center offers discount for students who graduated Summa Cum Laude, Magna Cum Laude and Cum Laude honors. Other special discounts and promos are available. Our upcoming courses to be offered are: Local Licensure Exam for Doctors, Medtech, Dentist, Practical Nurse and Occupational Therapist (OT); Refresher Programs for Math, Science & English.

ICSEC-Kaplan is located at 2nd Floor Golden Star Bldg. #132 San Marcos St., Molo, Iloilo City (near MOLO Church). Feel free to visit us anytime or call us at tel. nos. (033) 336-3155 to 56. At ICSEC-Kaplan… we make dreams a reality!

(from the News Today Info Online)

wecky

June 30th, 2005, 10:53 PM

Tuesday, June 28, 2005
Spanish products, culture exhibit at 'Feria Española'

THE Spanish Chamber of Commerce with the Spanish Commercial Office, Embassy of Spain is organizing "Feria Española" on June 29 and 30, 2005 at the Grand Ballroom of the Hotel Del Rio, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Part of the celebration of the Philippines-Spain Friendship Week, 16 exhibitors offering wines, olives, colognes, hams and many other products will be participating in the two-day trade fair.More than the display of Spanish products, the trade fair will feature Flamenco lessons by Señor Guillermo Gomez, at 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.

The Wine Appreciation Seminars will be conducted by international consultant, Sherwin A. Lao, at 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Chef Alexandra Cacho of the famous Gaudi Restaurant will do Spanish Cooking Demonstration at 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

As an additional treat, Flamenco and other Spanish regional dances will also be showcased by the group of Señor Gomez on a special performance at 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Ilonggos are encouraged to visit Feria Española and enjoy discounts on purchase of Spanish wines. Admission is free. For seat reservations for the Wine Appreciation Seminars, please call the Iloilo Business Resource Center of the Iloilo Business Club at 337-8341.

This trade fair is being brought by Cebu Pacific Air, KLM Dutch Airlines, Panay Electric Company, Cemex Palitada King, Bank of the Philippine Islands and Nestlé.

(from Sunstar Iloilo News Online)

wecky

June 30th, 2005, 10:55 PM

Tuesday, June 28, 2005
Bantay Bata 163 Iloilo's Children's Home opens

TWO months after it was re-launched in Iloilo City, Bantay Bata 163 Iloilo is set to open its Children's Home on July 1.

This was revealed by program manager Lenette Aguirre, who used to work for the corporate world, and who now finds meaning and satisfaction in helping abused children.

"The home can handle 20 children. Those who are considered high risk will be considered to live here. Non-high risk kids can still live with their families but they will be subject to constant visits and guidance by our social workers. Their families will also undergo counseling," she said.

Bantay Bata 163 Iloilo has three social workers; one is in-charge of the hotline. Although the hotline is based in Manila, Ilonggo-speaking staff have been tapped to answer the calls and immediately report them to Iloilo authorities.

Another staff handles resource mobilization, the coin bank, monitoring and plan income-generating activities.

After an abuse is reported and verified, children will then be rescued by the social workers here, along with the police, barangay officials and representatives of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

The program handles 0 to 12 year-olds. Older kids are being referred by the program to other authorized agencies.

Aguirre said that most of the cases they encounter are physical and sexual abuses cases. There are also requests for medical support.

As of June 14, there are two cases of sexual abuse, seven cases of physical abuse, 31 requests for medical support, one case of deportation and one case of custodianship, making the cases total to 42.

Challenges

"The requests for medical support is a big challenge for us because we don't have money. We rely on donors," Aguirre said.

Contrary to popular belief, Aguirre said that Bantay Bata 163 is not rich. "Although it's a project of ABS-CBN, the Lopezes believe that Ilonggos should help in making the project self-sustaining. The network's valuable help comes through promoting the project through television, acknowledging those who have donated to it, and legal assistance as among other non-financial support," Aguirre said.

Another challenge that the program faces is threats from perpetrators, especially of sexual abuse cases.

Mary Grace Legario, senior social worker narrated that at one time, they pulled out a rape victim from Antique. The perpetrator kept on calling the hotline and threatened them.

Services

The other services of the program are after care services (like schooling and medicines, family strengthening (through counseling), community outreach (lecture on rights of children in different barangays), scholarships (tap schools to partner with) and the coin bank.

A birthday celebrator with a big heart can also light up the kids' lives if they decide to hold their birthday party at the Children's Home.

How to help

Those who are willing to help the program can do several things.

They can adopt a "Barya Mo Buhay Ko" coinbank; donate in cash or in kind; be a foster parent to a child; donate clothes, books, groceries, medicines and medical apparatus; save the life of a sick child by providing for his/her operation or medical treatment; play, read a book, or spend time with the kids at the Children's Home; make Bantay Batay 163 Iloilo a beneficiary of your organization's projects; sponsor a community outreach program or medical mission; be a medical volunteer for medical missions; and sponsor a meal in the Children's Home.

Donations can be sent through Equitable PCI Bank Jaro Branch, savings account no. 1166-00764-6 and e-mail or fax a copy of the remittance slip, name and mailing address to verify donations.

Donations can also be sent to Bantay Bata 163 Iloilo, ABS-CBN Broadcast Complec, Luna Street, Lapaz. For more information, call (033) 320-9451 or fax (033) 320-7423 or email to lennetta_aguirre@abs.pinoycentral.com.(KVC)

(from Sunstar Iloilo News Online)

wecky

June 30th, 2005, 11:06 PM

it's nice to note a lot of good things happening in Iloilo City and Iloilo Province right now ... hope to enjoy more when I get there by end week of July. And hope to get more pictures, too.

Chymera, when you're not busy, I hope to meet you personally. Probably Van, Lex and Whyte will be there in CPU for our school's Centennial Celebration.

Cheers everyone!

Hala Bira!

:) :) :)

sandrin

July 1st, 2005, 04:10 AM

wecky, thanks for keeping us updated...i'm excited for your iloilo trip and looking forward to see all the pictures.....we need more pictures here coz chymera is now busy....i bet he's opting for a double major nurse and i.t., wow galing non ah....di bala, di bala

wecky

July 1st, 2005, 09:42 PM

hehehe .. thank you very much, sandrin .. i'm pretty much excited as well .. and really looking forward for this vacation, you know. Hopefully, you'll visit us in Iloilo someday. Cheers!

wecky

July 1st, 2005, 09:45 PM

Jalandoni Bridge eyed to alleviate traffic problems

The usual heavy traffic here is expected to ease up following Thursday's inauguration of the P47.5-million, 170-meter Jalandoni Bridge that connects Gen. Luna St., City Proper and Nabitasan in La Paz district.

President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo inaugurated the bridge project with the help of Senate President Franklin Drilon, Land Reform Secretary Rene Villa and City Mayor Jerry Treñas.

Drilon also made possible the construction of the P21.2-million access road leading to Hechanova Street in La Paz.

Construction of a fly-over along Gen. Luna St., which shall serve as one of the components of the bridge project, and a boulevard with promenade that would connect Benigno Aquino Diversion Road and Bonifacio Drive are also being eyed by the city government.

(from Panay News Online)

wecky

July 1st, 2005, 09:50 PM

The Iloilo River during the American period

When the Americans took over the governance of the Philippines, the first major improvement done in Iloilo was with the port in the Iloilo River because of its leading importance in Philippine economic activities at that time.

Improvements were provided for by Act No. 641 appropriating $150,000 in United currency for this purpose (Report of Philippine Commission, 1903). Work started in 1904 when the Philippine Commission contracted the J.G. White and Co. to dredge the river from the mouth of the Custom House at a depth of not less than 15 feet at low water and to rebuild the existing retaining wall (Worcester, 1904). Seven hundred eighty-three feet of river wall and 1,290 feet of reinforced concrete wharf, both to accommodate vessels of 18 feet at low water, were built along the south bank of the middle reach of the river. These were completed in March 1907. All in all, P1,000 was spent for the dredging of the Iloilo River and the improvements done on the wharf (120 th Port Anniversary, 1975). In the same year, pillotes were erected in order to facilitate the docking of ships.

The dredging work done on the Iloilo River from 1904 to 1907 enabled the government to reclaim 210,000 square meters of land along the banks, especially the lower portion of the area between the river and Fort San Pedro.

More improvements were done from 1908 to 1915. The insular government purchased a new dredge for the construction of the concrete marginal wharf with road connections and part of the dredging operations to include the turning basin (Report of the Philippine Commission, 1908).

The dredging projects and maintenance made the Iloilo River deep. As a result, it was able to accommodate larger vessels both in foreign operation and domestic shipping. Thus, by 1916, it was clearing more ships than Manila. It cleared 6,071 vessels totaling 398,130 tons, compared to Manila's 2,849 vessels of 343,600 tons (Iloilo Provincial Historical Committee, 1975). That year, Iloilo also got a new custom house and, as if to prove that the Iloilo port was the heart of the city's economic life, it was made the tallest building in the city that time. It is noteworthy to mention that Iloilo was the second port of call in the Philippines during this time as far as coast-wise shipping was concerned David, 1937).

In 1926, 115 meters of concrete river wall was added and, in the following year, rock jetties were put up at the river mouth to prevent erosion and formation of mud bars. In 1929, more dredging was was done to further improve the operations of the Iloilo port (Quintilla,1992). Again, in 1927, because of the dredging activity, a greater expanse of land (the later site of the Iloilo airport and now partly occupied by Camp Delgado and squatters), was reclaimed.

To serve the growing number of sea-going vessels sailing into the Iloilo port, dockyards and machine shops were established along the inner portion of the river. Those that were already operating in the 1920's were the Visayan Stevedore and Transportation Co. (VISTRANCO), Iloilo Drydock and Engineering Co. (IDECO) and Taller Bisayas Strachan and McMurray. In the late 1930's, two more establishments were added, namely: Commonwealth Foundry Shops and Dolendo Engineering, also known as La Paz Engineering.

With the reclamation of low-lying areas along the Iloilo River, more roads were constructed leading to the heart of the town of Iloilo. Notable among these was the extension of the Muelle Loney road from Calle Arroyo to the Casa Real or the Provincial Capitol (Versoza, 1937).

In 1937, because of the situation of the Iloilo River, the government appropriated P420,000 for dredging it and P98,165.40 for port maintenance (David, 1937). As can be seen, a lot of dredging and improvement were done on the Iloilo River and the port during the American period. These projects had far-reaching effects on the physical character and economy of the Iloilo town.

(from the News Today Info Online)