PEZA approves first IT location in Iloilo City

ILOILO CITY, Jan. 31 (PNA) - The Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) has approved the accreditation of the Amigo Terrace Hotel, the first to receive an approval from the said government agency for its commercial center to be utilized by information technology providers.

Iloilo City Mayor Jerry P. Treñas, who was informed of the approval weeks ago, added that two more commercial centers, the SM City and Robinson's Iloilo, are still waiting for their own PEZA accreditation as well.

Treñas expressed hope that the accreditation will pave way for more IT investments in Iloilo City.

The mayor explained that locators are after the PEZA accreditation because they are entitled to avail of huge tax incentives.

Treñas added that the city has long been ready to accommodate call center investors citing its preparedness when it comes to providing them with steady power supply, infrastructure and foremost is the manpower.

It was learned that the two existing call centers here, the Callbox and E-PLDT Ventus, have an agreement with the Panay Electric Company (PECO), the power distributor here, that they should be the last group to be affected should power failure happens.

Likewise, Iloilo City has one of the most advanced infrastructures, in such case, the fiber optics that could respond to the need of service providers.

Most importantly, the success rate when it comes to manpower resources here is very high.

A week ago, the TeleTech, another service provider that conducted a jobs fair for call center agents, was able to hire 400 applicants. The company was expecting to hire some 1,000 applicants.

The TeleTech made the success of the hiring rate as its gauge whether or not to operate a call center in Iloilo City.

The mayor was informed that representatives from the TeleTech have already surveyed the commercial center of the Amigo Terrace Hotel for a probable site.(PNA)

ti berns..wala ka na itago..ara na o hehehe

ahahahah ang iban nga secreto ni bernie nag gwa na ang iban wala pa..

secret! ahahahahahahhahaahha

good morning iloilo!

ahahahah ang iban nga secreto ni bernie nag gwa na ang iban wala pa..

secret! ahahahahahahhahaahha

good morning iloilo!

Good morning Eric! Ti ano tuloy ba kayo sa Aliwan? Unfortunately, I lost my phone yesterday so wala gid point of contact.

good reports regarding teletech expansion in Iloilo. Another good development in our city, just in case. :banana:

Brgy’s water management
project impresses WB envoy

ILOILO – A representative of the World Bank, the funding partner of the KALAHI-CIDSS Project, lauded the residents of Brgy. Nueva Sevilla, Barotac Viejo, Iloilo for the efficient management of their water system level II sub-project.

Rodolfo Lacal, a specialist from the World Bank, was in Iloilo recently for a three-day site visit to study the operation and sustainability of water system sub-projects under KALAHI-CIDSS.

“More than three years after its completion, the functionality of the water system has been very well maintained by the members of the Association and the whole barangay still benefits from it. To date, the community has even generated a savings of P34,000. This speaks of the effective implementation of the operation and maintenance plan of the Association and the cooperation of water-consumers,” Lacal said.

Completed in February 2004 under the Cycle 1 of KALAHI-CIDSS implementation, the water system in Brgy. Nueva Sevilla has a total project cost of P481,544. Of this, KALAHI-CIDSS’ grant amounted to P336,727 while local counterpart contribution totaled P144,816. Complete with 25 tapstands, the project serves some 200 households.

Aside from providing the community easy access to potable water, Lacal also cited that the sub-project has opened job opportunities to the residents. A water tender, collector, meter reader, tapstand cluster head and bookkeeper are given monthly honoraria ranging from P300 to P1,000. The board of directors of the Nueva Sevilla Water System Association is likewise provided with monthly honoraria.

“The savings of the Association will help ensure the continued serviceability of the sub-project as the community need not lobby anymore to other fund sources for minor or even major repairs that would be needed in the future. This will also maximize the longevity of the sub-project for the benefit of the next generation,” Lacal said.

The water system level II sub-project in Brgy. Nueva Sevilla is one among the 39 sub-projects funded during the three-year engagement of the KALAHI-CIDSS program in Barotac Viejo.

KALAHI-CIDSS or the Kapit Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services Project is the government’s revolutionary approach to alleviate poverty through people’s participation in community development planning, prioritization, implementation and management. The Project is implemented by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

Aside from Brgy. Nueva Sevilla, Lacal also visited the completed water system level II sub-projects in barangays Agnaga, Calamigan, Batiti and Aglosong in Concepcion; Simsiman, Tabucan, Malapawe, Guiso and Ulayan in Calinog; and Poblacion, Daja, Siwalo, Tulabong and Magsaysay in Maasin.

source; Panay News (http://www.panaynews.com.ph/business.htm)

Eric, dayun 'ta next week sa Aliwan. PM ko sa imo number ko.

ahahahah ang iban nga secreto ni bernie nag gwa na ang iban wala pa..

secret! ahahahahahahhahaahha

good morning iloilo!

Brother ko nag-apply last January sa TELETECH para sa Iloilo Branch and he is now waiting kung sa diin sila matraining. Last December qualified applicants has already started the training in Bacolod City.

Another NEXT BIG THING to watch in Iloilo.:banana: :banana: :banana:

Ateneo De Iloilo - Video Presentation
Ateneo de Iloilo then and now. History and Dream of Ateneo de Iloilo-SMCS

Click : http://www.metacafe.com/watch/533857/

Good morning Eric! Ti ano tuloy ba kayo sa Aliwan? Unfortunately, I lost my phone yesterday so wala gid point of contact.

Eric, dayun 'ta next week sa Aliwan. PM ko sa imo number ko.



Brother ko nag-apply last January sa TELETECH para sa Iloilo Branch and he is now waiting kung sa diin sila matraining. Last December qualified applicants has already started the training in Bacolod City.


didtop na lng ta kitaay sa venue. sa quirino. ill be there super early. I got my ID already. pero mga next week ko pa makuha. heres mynumber 0918 493 4051

Professionalism 101 for traffic aides
Jeehan V. Fernandez
2007-04-20

TRAFFIC aides in Iloilo City should exude professionalism in their job.

Mayor Jerry Treñas urged all traffic aides in the metropolis to undergo a seminar-workshop on “Workplace Values for Traffic Aides Effectiveness” at Sarabia Manor Hotel and Convention Center which kicked off yesterday.

The seminar conducted by Prof. Lorenza Padojinog of the College of Management from the University of the Philippines-Visayas (UPV) will run until April 23.

The forum aims to move traffic aides to “recognize their responsibilities in the city’s traffic management program; define certain ethical standards and internalize the value of meaningful and rewarding work done with integrity and Christian values.”

“There is a pressing need for all traffic aides to be reminded of the various means to do their jobs efficiently. As a rapidly developing urban community, the city should have quality traffic enforcers who have a good grasp of their jobs and be able to value their respective tasks,” Treñas stressed.

The workshop also serves as venue for exchange of ideas of traffic enforcers to examine work standards that motivate them and reassess the appropriateness of their work behavior.

“The traffic aides will be trained on basic courtesy and decorum while on duty as well as how to handle difficult situations,” Treñas explained.

The mayor said the seminar enjoined 270 traffic personnel comprising the city’s Traffic Management and Engineering Unit (TMEU) and 20 police supervisors.

Treñas said that “professionalizing the traffic aides” is a component of the $500,000 grant of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) for a comprehensive transport and traffic development plan of the city.

source: The Guardian ILOILO (http://www.theguardianiloilo.ph/localnews0.php?id=2531)

MIWD mulls watershed reforestation
Jeehan V. Fernandez
2007-04-20

THE Metro Iloilo Water District (MIWD) plans to reforest the Maasin watershed which is now drying up.

The Maasin watershed is MIWD’s main source of water being supplied to Iloilo City and the towns of Maasin, Cabatuan, Sta. Barbara, Oton, San Miguel, and Leganes.

MIWD likewise operates nine deep wells and pumping stations in Oton and San Miguel.

One of these deep wells each in Oton and San Miguel are non-operational at the moment because of technical problems.

The water firm wants to initiate another reforestation project aside from the programs undertaken by local government units (LGUs) and Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

“We envision the protection or reforestation of Maasin watershed just like the La Mesa dam which used to be developed only by the Quezon City government before. Now, the Metropolitan Manila Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) has been undertaking the reforestation,” MIWD interim general manager Edwin Reyes said.

“We will coordinate with Bantay-Kalikasan for a feasibility study on the new approach and framework for the protection of the Maasin watershed,” said Reyes.

Bantay Kalikasan, a non-government organization, is responsible for management, development, reforestation, protection, environmental education and nature park supervision of the La Mesa dam.

Reyes said the MIWD will replicate MWSS’ reforestation of the 2,400-hectare La Mesa Dam on the 6,000-hectare Maasin watershed.

Reyes said the watershed is also depleting because of farm irrigation systems.

He added that the MIWD pays P1 million to Maasin and P300,000 to Oton and San Miguel for their share.

“We have to wait for the rainy season for water supply to return to normal,” Reyes said.

source: The Guardian ILOILO (http://www.theguardianiloilo.ph/localnews0.php?id=2535)

didtop na lng ta kitaay sa venue. sa quirino. ill be there super early. I got my ID already. pero mga next week ko pa makuha. heres mynumber 0918 493 4051
ahay nahisa ko a :(

I've launched na gali a new section of Explore Iloilo, which is the photoblog. Check it out here: http://www.exploreiloilo.com/photoblog/ ... haven't posted all the photos yet.

You've probably seen them already because I post all of them here, but if you think you missed some of them or want to have a second look. Just visit frequently because there will be a new set of photos everyday :D

‘Cruise ships offer more tips than salary’
Jeehan V. Fernandez
2007-04-20

FILIPINOS onboard cruise ships earn more not because of their salaries but the tips they are getting from customers who enjoy the luxuries of giant liners around the globe.

This was the assessment of Manny Villa, who used to work at Negros Navigation (NN).

“The cruise ship management (CSM) industry offers some $3,000 in basic salary but the tips the crew might accumulate from customers could reach up to $45,000 a month,” said Villa.

Villa said he was invited to grace the launching of the world’s biggest cruise ship Freedom Liner in New York May 2006.

Noting his travel experience, Villa said Freedom Liner boasts of top of the line accommodation and amenities and is equipped with 12 elevators.

There are some 400 Filipinos onboard the luxury ship, most of them working as hotel crew.

“The CSM is a big field with around 300,000 employment opportunities abroad,” Villa pointed out.

Villa, who also chairs the Iloilo Paraw Regatta Foundation (IPRF), encouraged deserving children to take CSM scholarship grants offered by John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University (JBLFMU).

IPRF has tied up with JBLFMU that got the backing of several big European liners, particularly the Norwegian shippers, to support the full scholarships of 1,000 qualified applicants all over the country.

“JBLFMU is closely associated with Norway shipping industry that has been employing its graduates. The scholars will become dollar-earners five years from now,” Villa said.

Department of Tourism (DOT-6) regional director Edwin Trompeta said that CSM aspirants should master English, Math and Sciences.

“Our young have the edge of getting hired in cruise ships because they are good English speakers,” stressed Trompeta.

Meanwhile, NN in late 2006 joined developing prospective manpower for the promising cruise ship industry by offering onboard on-job-training to students taking up hotel and restaurant management (HRM), tourism and stewardship courses.

NN has invited colleges and universities and other institutions to be a partner for the cruise ship learning through its WorkSHIP packages.

The training packages offer vessel orientation with seminars on customer service, personality development, HRM/tourism job opportunities and eco-tourism.

It also provides extensive workshop sessions on housekeeping management, centerpiece making, flower arrangement, table setting, food and beverage management, bar tending, food styling, new trend in food presentation, food service management, entrepreneurial opportunities in food industry, basic tour guiding, tourism advertising, brochure making, ad lay-outing, event management, cake decorating and vegetable carving.

The tours enable the students to onboard discussions being handled by lecturers from the formidable team of Western Visayas group of Tourism and HRM instructors.

NN’s newest offering in the shipping business is geared toward the growing demand for HRM and tourism graduates in the global hospitality industry.

This is so because of the fact that the cruise ship employment market has grown in popularity in the past five years and has increased enrollment of students in institutions with HRM and tourism courses.

And to cater to the industry-based demand, schools have adjusted their curricula to accommodate programs on hospitality management skills.

Likewise, schools have turned to the local shipping lines to provide hands-on training for students gearing for the global cruise ship market.

NN executive vice-president Jose Manuel L. Mapa noted they first introduced a “floating university” concept in the 90’s.

He added the training tours were also suggested by the school deans themselves.

“We have to enhance the deans’ ideas while this is a way to find new usage for our ships. Part of the solution is to respond to on-job-training programs by providing venue for students to prepare and equip them with skills for the real world,” Mapa said.

Mapa also said that NN was the first to bring in the country’s real cruise ship Doña Monserrat that traveled into local tourism sites Sicogon and Gigantes islands in Iloilo and Kalibo as well as international destinations Hong Kong and Indonesia.

“The cruise ship is a booming industry out there. The workers are earning some $2,000 to $3,000 a month. But the problem is that the schools here produce students who have difficulty in finding relative jobs. Thus, the academe should be attuned to the industry needs,” Mapa clarified.

To address the setback, Mapa said they now provide the “learning atmosphere” for students of this field.

“The students will be able to do first-hand training by manning the front desk, attending to customers’ complaints, preparing foods, setting tables, among others,” said Mapa.

source: The Guardian ILOILO (http://www.theguardianiloilo.ph/localnews0.php?id=2534)

@ Circumferencial Road - Kung mapatindog na ina, mu naman ang dumugon sang mga vehicles... And not to mention the Jeepney Law in the Philippines na - when there's a major road, there's always a jeep...

@ Circumferencial Road - Kung mapatindog na ina, mu naman ang dumugon sang mga vehicles... And not to mention the Jeepney Law in the Philippines na - when there's a major road, there's always a jeep...
BTW, where the entry point of the circumferential road in Mandurriao?, I only know that one of its ends is infront of the Jaro Grand Estates and the other is in Acropolis (though last time I went there there was still no road, even the unpaved one like in Jaro).

BTW, where the entry point of the circumferential road in Mandurriao?, I only know that one of its ends is infront of the Jaro Grand Estates and the other is in Acropolis (though last time I went there there was still no road, even the unpaved one like in Jaro).

It's still on its blueprint stage pa. I don't know when will they implement the project but they say that it'll be there by 2015.

ti berns..wala ka na itago..ara na o hehehe

ahahahah ang iban nga secreto ni bernie nag gwa na ang iban wala pa..

secret! ahahahahahahhahaahha

good morning iloilo!

:lol:

Its a good thing that Amigo applied and was approved to be a PEZA IT building.For the past years its retail space became "obsolete" and now being an IT building it will surely have an easy time luring businesses.

If ever teletech will set up their call center in amigo then it would surely "liven" up that part of the city.more establishement to open to cater to the workforce.

^^ Remember that SM City and Robinsons are also applying for PEZA accreditation?

What they only need now is a signature and thats it. They are recognized IT establishments.

^^ Remember that SM City and Robinsons are also applying for PEZA accreditation?

What they only need now is a signature and thats it. They are recognized IT establishments.

I have a strong speculation that Teletech will be put up in Robinsons. Here in Manila and other part of the country, Teletech usually has a center inside every Robinsons Mall. However, I realized that the City Government will be occupying certain area of the Mall.... hmmmm this is a tricky guessing game.

^^ You don't have to guess since the City Gov't will be occupying Robinsons. :D

^^ You don't have to guess since the City Gov't will be occupying Robinsons. :D

Hmmmm hayaan mo na lalabas din yan sa news... he he he he he he :)

Hmmmm hayaan mo na lalabas din yan sa news... he he he he he he :)
Gani man. I know where it is but I'll let it all with the company and the media, hehehehe!! :D

:lol:

Its a good thing that Amigo applied and was approved to be a PEZA IT building.For the past years its retail space became "obsolete" and now being an IT building it will surely have an easy time luring businesses.

If ever teletech will set up their call center in amigo then it would surely "liven" up that part of the city.more establishement to open to cater to the workforce.

Amigo, like the Iloilo Foremost Milling, is owned by La Filipina Uy Gongco. Foremost is now directly connected with Napocor if they could extend to Amigo then they could offer much lower electricity rates

Gani man. I know where it is but I'll let it all with the company and the media, hehehehe!! :D

Toto Bern - may contact ka kay Trenas or kung sin-o man sa City Hall. I heard one call center here in Manila is scouting for a location somewhere in the south. They can submit an invitation to put up the center in Iloilo.

Toto Bern - may contact ka kay Trenas or kung sin-o man sa City Hall. I heard one call center here in Manila is scouting for a location somewhere in the south. They can submit an invitation to put up the center in Iloilo.

I only have one contact in the city hall and that's through Sir Ben Jimena of the City Tourism Office. I might be meeting him this May and you may PM me the details.

Amigo, like the Iloilo Foremost Milling, is owned by La Filipina Uy Gongco. Foremost is now directly connected with Napocor if they could extend to Amigo then they could offer much lower electricity rates

yup.there are 3 big malls/establishments (amigo/marymart/sm delgado) in that area so they can easily gear up for that purpose.

Toto Bern - may contact ka kay Trenas or kung sin-o man sa City Hall. I heard one call center here in Manila is scouting for a location somewhere in the south. They can submit an invitation to put up the center in Iloilo.

hopefully the development of the new cbd will be fast-tracked so Iloilo City CANT lose some possible investments in the outsourcing industry.

Some malls like SM are studying the possibility of transferring their power source from the damened PECO to NAPOCOR as what I've heard from a source. :)

^^ You don't have to guess since the City Gov't will be occupying Robinsons. :D

Hmmmm hayaan mo na lalabas din yan sa news... he he he he he he :)

Gani man. I know where it is but I'll let it all with the company and the media, hehehehe!! :D

:lol: whichever mall or building teletech chooses it will certainly boost that area in terms of development.

Some malls like SM are studying the possibility of transferring their power source from the damened PECO to ILECO as what I've heard from a source. :)

:banana: :banana: :banana:
that would teach PECO a lesson
lapit man lang nag mandurriao sa ileco area.san miguel would be their "connecting point" cguro

Some malls like SM are studying the possibility of transferring their power source from the damened PECO to NAPOCOR as what I've heard from a source. :)

Dapat lang para ma threaten man ang PECO. I can't really get the logic why the government can't invest in alternative energy sources.

or ... it could result excess power for Iloilo City and the average household consumer and little businesses will have to shoulder the cost.

Oh BTW, today is the day that Tribu Ilonganon (and Kahilawayan?) will be performing at the freedom grandstand to give the Ilonggos a glimpse of their performance for Aliwan. I just realized that now .... Gosh, I should've got some sleep ... haven't slept since yesterday ... and I really want to see it since I won't be able to come to Aliwan :)

Eric, dayun 'ta next week sa Aliwan. PM ko sa imo number ko.

Brother ko nag-apply last January sa TELETECH para sa Iloilo Branch and he is now waiting kung sa diin sila matraining. Last December qualified applicants has already started the training in Bacolod City.
Dayun na guid man ang Teletech sa Iloilo kung mag-amo sini. Less kuryente, Iloilo can offer a very good number of human resources for these call centers. I'm thinking of having more call center expansions in the future. With Teletech coming, Iloilo City hosts 4 or 5 call centers now. That's good business with both e-Ventus and Callbox due for expansion this year to almost their exisitng capacity. More 24-hour stores to be opened in Iloilo City soon, too, brought by this call centers presence in our city.

Another NEXT BIG THING to watch in Iloilo.:banana: :banana: :banana:

Ateneo De Iloilo - Video Presentation
Ateneo de Iloilo then and now. History and Dream of Ateneo de Iloilo-SMCS

Click : http://www.metacafe.com/watch/533857/
Very nice. When are they planning to start the construction of new buildings sa ila campus sa Diversion? Ateneo de Iloilo needs to fasttrack their expansion by now. Magutok na guid ang ila campus dira lapit sa UI.

@ Circumferencial Road - Kung mapatindog na ina, mu naman ang dumugon sang mga vehicles... And not to mention the Jeepney Law in the Philippines na - when there's a major road, there's always a jeep...
it's classic sa tanan nga mga roads sa Pinas. the more roads, the more routes we will be having. But to think that in Iloilo, public jeepneys is only a third of the number of private cars today. More than anything else, these new roads will cater the massive impact of increasing number of private cars in our province compare to PUJs.

:lol:

Its a good thing that Amigo applied and was approved to be a PEZA IT building.For the past years its retail space became "obsolete" and now being an IT building it will surely have an easy time luring businesses.

If ever teletech will set up their call center in amigo then it would surely "liven" up that part of the city.more establishement to open to cater to the workforce.
Amigo is an approved PEZA IT Building with Robinson's and SM City awaiting for their approval in few months' time.

Dapat lang para ma threaten man ang PECO. I can't really get the logic why the government can't invest in alternative energy sources.

or ... it could result excess power for Iloilo City and the average household consumer and little businesses will have to shoulder the cost.

But having the big establishments move (and with EPIRA in law), PECO may find ways to attract customers to their business to invest.

In times that a public utility will face bankcruptcy or state of emergency, the state has the right to take over it.

^^ monopoly is giving PECO a good venue to exploit the consumers and businesses. If we start opening up the market and giving alternative sources definitely PECO will loosen its grip on Electicity provision in the city.

FYO - just checked NEDA's website and I found that there is a new Project for MIGDEC: Metro Iloilo Radial Road (Zarraga-Iloilo Airport Road) worth P 1.023 B.

Great list of activities, totopurz. What exactly is this adopt-a-site project in Alimodian? I haven't heard a brgy name Bagsakan. Sorry for my innocence. :)

For almost a decade now, MIWD is not helping in the rehabilitation and protection of the watershed. It is paying the local government of Maasin but for tax obligations as it is using the resources of said municipality for business and profit.

In 1998, JBIC provided a loan of nearly P80 million for the Maasin watershed. KAPAWA was granted around P45million for the rehabilitation of 2,600 hectares and the rest for infrastructures like farm to market roads and community water systems. The JBIC Project ended in 2004 and the problem now is on the maintenance and protection of the gains of the Project.

We will start repaying the loan by 2016 and the sad thing if we cannot protect the plantation forest is that we will be paying P80million plus interests with the watershed in the same or worse conditions as before the Project implementation.

http://i122.photobucket.com/albums/o271/totopurz/maasin%20watershed/watershedproblems.jpg


The adopt-a-site agroforestry project is a private initiative in partnership with the local people's organization, KAPAWA, and DENR-SMO of the following groups:
1. San Miguel Corp, adopted 6 hectares in 2004-2005 only,
2. La Filipina Uy Gongco, 100 hectares from 2005 to present,
3. Phil. Pediatric Society-WV/NO Chapter, 4 hectares from 2005 to present,
4. Phil. College of Physicians-WV/Panay Chapter, 1 hectare from 2005 to present,
5. Central Philippine Univ., 20 hectares from 2006 to present,

With groups providing technical and other support: Iloilo Mountaineering Club, Big Hearts Fdn, Paulinian Environmental Society, Green Forum-WV, We HEAL Fdn, Order of Asclipius.

some of the developments on the agroforestry project:
http://i122.photobucket.com/albums/o271/totopurz/maasin%20watershed/naripsipan06to07.jpg

http://i122.photobucket.com/albums/o271/totopurz/maasin%20watershed/agroforestry.jpg

http://i122.photobucket.com/albums/o271/totopurz/maasin%20watershed/watershedproblems2.jpg

Bagsakan is one of the upland barangays of Alimodian. Btw, the Maasin Watershed is composed of 16 barangays from Janiuay, Alimodian and Maasin

^^ And currently Iloilo City belongs to the 9 Critical Cities in the Philippines facing water crisis as according to NWRB.

totopurz
thanks for the info re: maasin watershed.

hopefully the development of the new cbd will be fast-tracked so Iloilo City CANT lose some possible investments in the outsourcing industry.
The presence of a new CBD can only hasten BPO's potential investments in our city but will never be the deciding factor of in luring more BPO investors to put up their businesses in Iloilo. As said earlier, Iloilo has several IT approved sites for these BPOs. At present, these sites remains untapped yet. So, we still have a very good area for development should they wanht to invest in Iloilo City.

Some malls like SM are studying the possibility of transferring their power source from the damened PECO to NAPOCOR as what I've heard from a source. :)
This will be the best news and the best move if it happens. Big businesses in the city should start scouting for a transfer of their power source from Napocor and NOT PECO. PECO should ought to learn their lesson. If ever this will be realised, then Iloilo City will become more and more competitive. This move should be encouraged to all big businesses around the city since they have the capacity and the money to do so.

Amigo, like the Iloilo Foremost Milling, is owned by La Filipina Uy Gongco. Foremost is now directly connected with Napocor if they could extend to Amigo then they could offer much lower electricity rates
Can Foremost do it? Are they allowed to offer electricity needs to other businesses in the city? I thought PECO is the sole power franchised for Iloilo City?

^^ monopoly is giving PECO a good venue to exploit the consumers and businesses. If we start opening up the market and giving alternative sources definitely PECO will loosen its grip on Electicity provision in the city.

FYO - just checked NEDA's website and I found that there is a new Project for MIGDEC: Metro Iloilo Radial Road (Zarraga-Iloilo Airport Road) worth P 1.023 B.
I agree, Soul. They need to open the market to other investors. We need to take away the monopoly of PECO in serving Iloilo City residents and businesses electrical needs. I think this is the EVIL of Iloilo City's power industry at present. Since PECO is the only energy provider for Iloilo City, they're exploit the market by raising power rates, and later will keep on threatening businesses and residents of continued brownouts inorder to get what they wanted.

or ... it could result excess power for Iloilo City and the average household consumer and little businesses will have to shoulder the cost.

Oh BTW, today is the day that Tribu Ilonganon (and Kahilawayan?) will be performing at the freedom grandstand to give the Ilonggos a glimpse of their performance for Aliwan. I just realized that now .... Gosh, I should've got some sleep ... haven't slept since yesterday ... and I really want to see it since I won't be able to come to Aliwan :)
I don't think that if businesses will leave PECO and source out their power from NAPOCOR, the excess power not used will be shouldered by Ilonggos in the city. PECO can declare bankruptcy at the end if there's no consumers BUT the national government will take over the ailing company, which I believe is a good thing for all Ilonggos.

Can Foremost do it? Are they allowed to offer electricity needs to other businesses in the city? I thought PECO is the sole power franchised for Iloilo City?

Well Foremost is now sourcing about 2MW from Napocor and the Iloilo Provincial Capitol is also connected to Napocor through an extension of Foremost's transmission lines across Iloilo River .

That is why the Capitol now saves about 1/3 in electricity cost (more than P200,000/month). This is one thing I credit Gov. Tupas and the other is the silent but continuing development of their GIS capabilities in the planning office. The negatives are corruption (remember the toilet paper holders?) and the low support to watershed rehabilitation and protection.

Well Foremost is now sourcing about 2MW from Napocor and the Iloilo Provincial Capitol is also connected to Napocor through an extension of Foremost's transmission lines across Iloilo River .

That is why the Capitol now saves about 1/3 in electricity cost (more than P200,000/month). This is one thing I credit Gov. Tupas and the other is the silent but continuing development of their GIS capabilities in the planning office. The negatives are corruption (remember the toilet paper holders?) and the low support to watershed rehabilitation and protection.

... :) Buti na lang walang issue yung Toilet Paper mismo.

Isa pa sa pasaway na company yung MIWD! Eversince this company did not develop a world class water service sa Iloilo!

^^ what do you mean by the GIS capabilities? Please eleaborate. Thanks.

Mayor Trenas - Iloilo Experience (presented to Iloilo Business Club)

http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h151/soulmaker27/MayorTrenas-IloiloExperience_1.png

To download the whole presentation check this link: http://pdf.ph/downloads/decentralization/Mayor%20Trenas%20-%20Iloilo%20Experience.pdf



Mr. Gentoral - LGDP Experience

http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h151/soulmaker27/Mr.png

To download whole presentation check this link: http://pdf.ph/downloads/decentralization/Mr.%20Gentoral%20-%20LGDP%20Experience.pdf

^^ The challenges for the future looks really promising. More for MIGEDC!
Soul, can you re-post them in our MIGEDC thread? Thanks.

From the slideshow: Mayor Trenas - Iloilo Experience (presented to Iloilo Business Club).

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h291/berniemacksouthcentral/untitled-10.jpg
Diversion Road Area....1981! Look at that now!

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h291/berniemacksouthcentral/untitled2-1.jpg
Fuerza/Puerto San Pedro y La Punta (1990s?)

Well Foremost is now sourcing about 2MW from Napocor and the Iloilo Provincial Capitol is also connected to Napocor through an extension of Foremost's transmission lines across Iloilo River .

That is why the Capitol now saves about 1/3 in electricity cost (more than P200,000/month). This is one thing I credit Gov. Tupas and the other is the silent but continuing development of their GIS capabilities in the planning office. The negatives are corruption (remember the toilet paper holders?) and the low support to watershed rehabilitation and protection.

you sound so familiar with this energy topic, can i ask which org or department are you affiliated? hope you share more here and update us always of what's going on there back in iloilo.

... :) Buti na lang walang issue yung Toilet Paper mismo.

Isa pa sa pasaway na company yung MIWD! Eversince this company did not develop a world class water service sa Iloilo!

if i'm not wrong i've read some news in the past that there's some improvements and upgrades with the water system there in Iloilo? Yeah i heard some complaints before of the quality of service they give to the ilonggos but i hope it's not the same right now.

The presence of a new CBD can only hasten BPO's potential investments in our city but will never be the deciding factor of in luring more BPO investors to put up their businesses in Iloilo. As said earlier, Iloilo has several IT approved sites for these BPOs. At present, these sites remains untapped yet. So, we still have a very good area for development should they wanht to invest in Iloilo City.


This will be the best news and the best move if it happens. Big businesses in the city should start scouting for a transfer of their power source from Napocor and NOT PECO. PECO should ought to learn their lesson. If ever this will be realised, then Iloilo City will become more and more competitive. This move should be encouraged to all big businesses around the city since they have the capacity and the money to do so.


Can Foremost do it? Are they allowed to offer electricity needs to other businesses in the city? I thought PECO is the sole power franchised for Iloilo City?

I agree, Soul. They need to open the market to other investors. We need to take away the monopoly of PECO in serving Iloilo City residents and businesses electrical needs. I think this is the EVIL of Iloilo City's power industry at present. Since PECO is the only energy provider for Iloilo City, they're exploit the market by raising power rates, and later will keep on threatening businesses and residents of continued brownouts inorder to get what they wanted.


I don't think that if businesses will leave PECO and source out their power from NAPOCOR, the excess power not used will be shouldered by Ilonggos in the city. PECO can declare bankruptcy at the end if there's no consumers BUT the national government will take over the ailing company, which I believe is a good thing for all Ilonggos.

i always read your comments and observations here guys, keep it going: applause: :okay:

:banana:

nagalaway ako sa aerial pics sang port san pedro ba.
daw kanami hampangan sang simcity :lol:

From the slideshow: Mayor Trenas - Iloilo Experience (presented to Iloilo Business Club).

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h291/berniemacksouthcentral/untitled-10.jpg
Diversion Road Area....1981! Look at that now!

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h291/berniemacksouthcentral/untitled2-1.jpg
Fuerza/Puerto San Pedro y La Punta (1990s?)

thanks for sharing this pics

Wait a minute, who went in to the Iloilo Port Terminal? Is the airconditioning still functioning? BEcause the last time I was there was sometime last year bound for Gensan.

Wa na aircon pero tugnaw guihapon. At least it has a decent pre-departure area.

BERNIE
year 2000 pa ang last ko nga tapak sa port terminal sa san pedro :lol:
damo pa pics sa pdf file?

nanugunan gid ako sa area kon diin located ang flourmill sang uy gonco.it would have bee na great cbd/commercial area together with the "ilong"

Agustinian Churches in Iloilo

The Order of Saint Augustine established Iglesias or Churches all around the Visayas. Iloilo got the most number of Agustinian churches in the Visayas: 25 of them stretching from San Joaquin to Banate. In total, there are 34 Agustinan Churches built in the island of Panay, 6 in Capiz and 3 in Antique.

Whosoever has the luxury of time, may you please post the pictures of the Churches of the following localities:


Iloilo (San Jose)
Oton
Tigbauan
Guimbal
Miag-ao
San Joaquin
Leon
Tubungan
Alimodian
Jaro Cathedral
La Paz
Pavia
Santa Barbara
Cabatuan
Janiuay
Lambunao
Calinog
Leganes
Pototan
Dingle
Dueñas
Passi City
Dumangas
Barotac Nuevo
Banate

Europeans offer scholarship
to qualified maritime coeds

ILOILO City – Close to 50 shipping lines from Norway and other parts of Europe have signified their interest to provide scholarships to deserving students who will take up maritime courses at the John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University in Iloilo.

This was announced by Manny Villa, the Chairman of the Iloilo Paraw Regatta Foundation, Inc. that tied up with the university for its scholarship program.

The Paraw Regatta Foundation, the organizer of the annual sailboat competition in Iloilo has long planned to put up a scholarship program for the children of fishermen.

Initially they planned to take in 32 scholars but the university decided to open 600 slots for the Paraw Regatta Foundation.

Villa said with the development, they decided to open the program to all interested students even outside of Iloilo as long as they are qualified. The courses are limited to Cruise Ship Management, Maritime Engineering and Nautical Course.

Applicants must undergo a pre-screening that will be conducted by the Paraw Regatta Foundation. If they pass they will take the qualification exam given by the university and comply with other requisites that need to be complied for them to enter the institution.
Villa said the foundation would pay for the initial enrollment while waiting for the sponsoring company.

Villa said Norwegian and other European shipping companies have been investing on Filipinos, especially on Ilonggo seafarers, because most of their crews are Ilonggos and products of the John B. Lacson Foundation Maritime University. The university is the only maritime university in the whole of Asia.

"They concentrate in Western Visayas because most of their good materials are from this university," he said.

Qualified applicants can avail of either partial or full scholarships to include free board and lodging and a monthly allowance of not less than 50 US dollars.

After graduation, the scholars are already assured of jobs as they will also be hired by their respective benefactors.

The companies that have existing scholarship programs at the university are NSA, Filstar, Stolt Nielsen, Vega Manila, PCM, Bouvet Shipping, Cosmo Sealand, Jo Tankers and Odjfell.

More than 36 companies are still waiting to offer scholarships, according to Villa.

Interested applicants meantime are encouraged to check with the Iloilo City Tourism Office and look for Hazel Brasileño at tel numbers (033) 337 2172 for further details.

source: Panay News

The presence of a new CBD can only hasten BPO's potential investments in our city but will never be the deciding factor of in luring more BPO investors to put up their businesses in Iloilo. As said earlier, Iloilo has several IT approved sites for these BPOs. At present, these sites remains untapped yet. So, we still have a very good area for development should they wanht to invest in Iloilo City.

yup.the new cbd is a good magnet in attracting businesses esp bpo.we will be more competitive in luring them if we have this area (esp if they apply some portions as an it park) i believe if we have lured some bpo with the current infrastuctures we have then hopefully we can have more if we have this new cbd

Desalination plant aims to solve water shortage

By Kathy M. Villalon

A desalination plant has been put up in Iloilo City in order to provide a solution to the problem of limited water supply here.

The plant is a pilot project of the Mactan Rock Industries, Inc and SM City Iloilo, where it is located.

Desalination refers to any of several processes that remove the excess salt and other minerals from water in order to obtain fresh water suitable for animal consumption or irrigation. If almost all of the salt is removed for human consumption, sometimes the process produces table salt as a by-product.

According to Camelo Antonio Tompar, president and chief executive officer of MRII, Iloilo does not have any more fresh water sources. "The real source (Maasin Watershed) is 30 kilometers away, and the cost of bringing that water in the city is more expensive than desalination. Also consider the leaks in the pipes. The longer the pipes, the more the leakages are. Also, I talked with the manager of the Metro Iloilo Water District and he said that they cannot supply the water that's needed."

He added that deep wells don't provide solutions either. "The water that you get from the deep well is called the fresh water bubble, but if you dig deeper, that's already salt water," he said.

The desalination plant of MRII also clarifies and disinfects the water that it gets. "We have to do this because the water here is muddy and has a smell. We also need to disinfect it from bacteria."

RELIABLE

Tompar said that a desalination plant, which costs P3-million, can be put up anywhere you need it and leakages are reduced.

"Desalination is more reliable, more sustainable and environment friendly compared to other technologies. In fact, worldwide, almost 90 percent of water purification uses desalination than distillation," he said.

Desalination of ocean water is common in the Middle East (because of water scarcity) and the Caribbean, and is growing fast in the USA, North Africa, Singapore, Spain, Australia and China. It is used also on ships, submarines and islands.

COST

The cost of the water is also site specific. For example, truck water costs P25 per gram while desalinated water costs P5 to P6 per gram. Moreover, truck water is not clean.

This present tie-up with SM City Iloilo will pave the way for the company to go into much bigger desalination projects which will provide clean potable water on special economic zones, and hopefully, the country's problem on the supply of clean potable water will be a thing of the past.

RISING NEED

Iloilo City has a population of 400,000 and the use of water has increased steadily for agricultural, industrial and recreational uses, according to Mayor Jerry P. Treñas.

"This raised concern for the availability of water supply. Also, this has affected the quality of water we have because of the seepage of pesticides and insecticides, among others. Thus, the putting up of this plant is timely and significant," he added.

SHORTAGE

Earlier, MIWD Interim Manager Edwin Reyes said, the water produced from the water district's sources drastically reduced from 40,655 cubic meters per day to only 26,000 cubic meters per day.

Reyes said they need to produce 44,105,38 cubic meters per day of water to serve the needs of its 128,000 city consumers. He explained that the normal production of water in water treatment plants is 350 liters per second or 30,240 cubic meters per day in their water treatment plant.

Currently, water treatment plants can only produce 170 liters per day or 14,685 cubic meters per day. MIWD's primary source of water supply, the Maasin watershed is already dried up. They wanted to drill more wells in the town of Oton to address the water needs of its consumers.

Treñas urges consumers to use water sensibly.

source: TheNewsToday

P15B credit fund to spur economic activity -- DTI

Cadena

The P15 billion credit fund earmarked by the Development Bank of the Philippines for the One-Town, One-Product or OTOP program of the Department of Trade and Industry will help stimulate local economic activity.

Director Diosdado Cadena of DTI-Iloilo said that the Arroyo government has intensified the implementation of OTOP through the said P15-Billion credit fund for this year, in its effort to promote entrepreneurship through the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise (MSMEs) and create more jobs in the country.

The OTOP program, a priority project of President Arroyo, is a convergence of services where local executives take the lead in identifying, developing, and promoting a specific product of competitive advantage within their respective jurisdiction.

"DTI and DBP has signed a Memorandum of Agreement to help fast track the loan processing to Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise in the country," Cadena said in a PIA interview.

He said that one of the constraints of MSMEs, is the access to funding, and it?s good that DBP responded to the OTOP program.

The DTI-Iloilo Director said that there are already existing, or identified OTOP in Iloilo province, but "we will still review the firms or establishments operating under OTOP."

"We will look into their competitive advantage, then endorse it to the DBP," Cadena said in the same PIA interview, who likewise emphasized that the OTOP program is a priority project of President Arroyo which is designed to create more jobs and added income for the people especially in the countryside.

(T.Villavert/PIA)
source: TheNewsToday

Agustinian Churches in Iloilo

The Order of Saint Augustine established Iglesias or Churches all around the Visayas. Iloilo got the most number of Agustinian churches in the Visayas: 25 of them stretching from San Joaquin to Banate. In total, there are 34 Agustinan Churches built in the island of Panay, 6 in Capiz and 3 in Antique.

Whosoever has the luxury of time, may you please post the pictures of the Churches of the following localities:


Iloilo (San Jose)
Oton
Tigbauan
Guimbal
Miag-ao
San Joaquin
Leon
Tubungan
Alimodian
Jaro Cathedral
La Paz
Pavia
Santa Barbara
Cabatuan
Janiuay
Lambunao
Calinog
Leganes
Pototan
Dingle
Dueñas
Passi City
Dumangas
Barotac Nuevo
Banatehow about the university chuch inside san ag, thats beautiful as well.

^^ what do you mean by the GIS capabilities? Please eleaborate. Thanks.

geographic information system, with budgets less than P1million a year - the GIS personnel of the Capitol has slowly built-up their capabilities on digital mapping (ArcGIS, AutoCAD, and Global Positioning Systems operations), acquired plotter, wide scanner, and desktops. One can now scan up to 3.5-ft wide maps used as backdrops in heads-up digitizing.

The GIS center has updated the road networks and acquired thematic maps on slopes, topography, vegetation cover, soil types, erosion potentials, etc. that are necessary in land-use planning.

Guimaras invested i think P40 million for its GIS center, the bulk on orthophotos of the island. I just hope that with that amount of people's money spent they should upload images to google earth so that it could be used by the public. Bacolod, Cebu and other cities have already theirs in google earth.

Risk Taker: you sound so familiar with this energy topic, can i ask which org or department are you affiliated? hope you share more here and update us always of what's going on there back in iloilo.

i'm with the NGO, Green Forum-Western Visayas and one of the converners of RISE. I happen to represent the NGOs in the Infrastructure Dev Com of the RDC and the Execom of the Iloilo City Development Council.

Mayor Trenas - Iloilo Experience (presented to Iloilo Business Club)

http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h151/soulmaker27/MayorTrenas-IloiloExperience_1.png





F O U L !!!!!!!

Who made this banner? wala gid ka lisensya ba? that dinagyang image IS MINE. i took it last either during the Independence ay rites or last Aliwan Fiesta. definitely it was not taken last dinagyang 2006 in Iloilo.

:ohno: :ohno: :ohno:

i rechecked my blog that image originally was posted june15, 2006. twas taken during the independence day parade. in quirino grandstand

link to the original image

http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i149/ericd001/21150022.jpg

http://i122.photobucket.com/albums/o271/totopurz/maasin%20watershed/agroforestry.jpg


Bravo! A very scientific approach to reforestation. I'm glad you didn't just plant mahogany, and mahogany, and mahogany, and mahogany, and mahogany...


That is why the Capitol now saves about 1/3 in electricity cost (more than P200,000/month). This is one thing I credit Gov. Tupas and the other is the silent but continuing development of their GIS capabilities in the planning office. The negatives are corruption (remember the toilet paper holders?) and the low support to watershed rehabilitation and protection.
Wow! I didn't know our LGUs were also into GIS... Hi-tech ah.. That was very useful during the Solar I Oil Spill incident..
:banana:

nagalaway ako sa aerial pics sang port san pedro ba.
daw kanami hampangan sang simcity :lol:

I want to see Mayor Treñas play Sim City 4. Let's see how well he does it.

Desalination plant aims to solve water shortage

By Kathy M. Villalon

A desalination plant has been put up in Iloilo City in order to provide a solution to the problem of limited water supply here.

The plant is a pilot project of the Mactan Rock Industries, Inc and SM City Iloilo, where it is located.
...
According to Camelo Antonio Tompar, president and chief executive officer of MRII, Iloilo does not have any more fresh water sources. "The real source (Maasin Watershed) is 30 kilometers away, and the cost of bringing that water in the city is more expensive than desalination. Also consider the leaks in the pipes. The longer the pipes, the more the leakages are. Also, I talked with the manager of the Metro Iloilo Water District and he said that they cannot supply the water that's needed."
...
Tompar said that a desalination plant, which costs P3-million, can be put up anywhere you need it and leakages are reduced.

Really?? I thought desalination plants were VERY expensive. How large is this 3-million peso plant? Where do they get the salt water? I thought desalination would never touch Philippine shores. So are we giving up on the watershed? Does desalination provide us an excuse to lessen our attention towards reforestation? Desalination will just add to our electric bills. I hope we're not running away from the watershed problem.


COST

The cost of the water is also site specific. For example, truck water costs P25 per gram while desalinated water costs P5 to P6 per gram. Moreover, truck water is not clean.

This is ridiculous. 1 cubic meter is 1 million grams or 1 metric ton. Is truck water P25 million per cubic meter?!



Currently, water treatment plants can only produce 170 liters per day or 14,685 cubic meters per day. MIWD's primary source of water supply, the Maasin watershed is already dried up. They wanted to drill more wells in the town of Oton to address the water needs of its consumers.
...
source: TheNewsToday
More wells in Oton?! Oton suffered saltwater intrusion several years ago because of heavy withdrawal of ground water and you want to dig more wells again?!:ohno:


F O U L !!!!!!!

Who made this banner? wala gid ka lisensya ba? that dinagyang image IS MINE. i took it last either during the Independence ay rites or last Aliwan Fiesta. definitely it was not taken last dinagyang 2006 in Iloilo.

:ohno: :ohno: :ohno:
Perhaps we need to create a thread here in SSC to address this worsening problem.

http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h151/soulmaker27/MayorTrenas-IloiloExperience_1.png

F O U L !!!!!!!

Who made this banner? wala gid ka lisensya ba? that dinagyang image IS MINE. i took it last either during the Independence ay rites or last Aliwan Fiesta. definitely it was not taken last dinagyang 2006 in Iloilo.

:ohno: :ohno: :ohno:

me too!, that photo of Santa Barbara is mine.

Don't worry Eric ... when I get back (FROM BACOLOD!), I'll go to the Mayor's office and ask who's responsible for using our images without permission so that they are made aware of what they've done and the importance of asking permission.

look at the resemblance:

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/81/232818619_1a150f8848.jpg?v=0

BTW, I attended the event today, where the tribe Ilonganon and Kahilwayan performed at the Grandstand. After the program, I initially went to Mr. Ben Jimena introduced myself and gave him a promotional "business card", I was shaking like crazy when I handed it out to him ... don't know why, he is very approachable pa gani. He was standing beside Mayor Jerry Treñas, so I decided to introduce myself to him and also gave him a card. He then said "Thank You" and patted me on the back ... OMG!, indi man obvious medyo "star-strucked" ko no, hehe. I told them to visit the site if they have time because it's made to promote Iloilo, hope they do. It'll be a big thing for the site to be endorsed by these two big guys.

good job chy. at least now the iloilo LGUs are on ur side..

Chy, naka Pro na ko gali sa Flickr. somebody gave me a pro account :D

good job chy. at least now the iloilo LGUs are on ur side..

Chy, naka Pro na ko gali sa Flickr. somebody gave me a pro account :D

Chy, I'll be meeting with Sir Ben by the time I'll be there. We'll set the date for him. :)

LABOR UNREST HITS WHARF

Workers demand equal treatment, better pay
Francis Allan L. Angelo
2007-04-21



SOME 200 dockworkers at the Iloilo River Wharf are holding a strike for alleged unfair labor practices committed by the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA).

The strike, which started 7am Friday, is led by the Iloilo River Wharf Dockworkers Union (IRWDU) headed by Antonio Altas Jr.

Altas said their main demand is for the PPA to recognize them as the legitimate labor union representing IRW laborers.

Altas claimed that they are the legal union in the IRW after winning the “consent election” supervised by the Department of Labor and Employment last June 7, 2006.

“We won 200 of the 291 dockworkers, thus we are the recognized union that will represent the workers in all their concerns,” Altas.

But Altas said the PPA has yet to confirm their recognition as the IRW labor group.

The IRWDU is also asking for equal distribution of work at the IRW.

Altas said not all workers are given the chance to work regularly “because only those who are close to the management gets a bigger share of the pie.”

“What prevails at the IRW is bata-bata system. When you are close to the PPA management, you will have more chances to work on cargo ships docking at the IRW,” he added.

Altas said some of the dockworkers wait for one to three months before they can haul cargoes.

He added that IRW laborers are paid P1.08 per bag, regardless of the shipment they haul from the ships.

“There ought to be tariff for each kind of mechanize we haul, particularly the dangerous cargoes such as cement. But what the PPA did is to implement flat rate,” Altas averred.

He also said: “If this is the system, we will go hungry. Given the present rate, we will only earn at least P1,300. Then we will wait for two months before we can work again. How can we survive at P30 per day?”

Altas said the IRWDU has apologized to shippers who were affected by the strike.

“At least, we explained to them why we have to do this. We are only fighting for our rights.”

A dialogue between the PPA and IRWDU will be held today at the National Conciliation and Mediation Board to settle the labor tiff between the two parties.

The Daily Guardian tried to reach PPA officials but to no avail.

--The Guardian

^^
Looks like history is repeating itself in Muelle although hopfully they have it resolved as soon as possible.

^^ this issue needs immediate concern. Gee, 30 pesos a day? Ano ini tip? Kulang pa gani sa tip kung tan-awon mo lang. Workers back home is overworked but underpaid. Wala man guid damo mahimo cos workers are afraid tobe sacked or nahadlok maputoila kumpanya and madula-an sila trabaho. It's across the country phenomenon anyway. We really need to raise our worker's salary. Kaluluoy man ang mga mamumugon sa aton.

^^ what 30 pesos a day? di bala ang helper gani sa construction pina kanubo na 150 pesos a day, grabe naman kon tuod ni ya very abusive katama, luoy man sa ila.

From the slideshow: Mayor Trenas - Iloilo Experience (presented to Iloilo Business Club).

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h291/berniemacksouthcentral/untitled2-1.jpg
Fuerza/Puerto San Pedro y La Punta (1990s?)
the city center looks absolutely falt yet fully utilised. Maybe in the next five years to come, we will be seeing a different skyline for Iloilo City. One thing that'll change the outlook is the presence of the new Iloilo City Hall. Will it be possible for a new hotel to build within Fort San Pedro area?

you sound so familiar with this energy topic, can i ask which org or department are you affiliated? hope you share more here and update us always of what's going on there back in iloilo.

if i'm not wrong i've read some news in the past that there's some improvements and upgrades with the water system there in Iloilo? Yeah i heard some complaints before of the quality of service they give to the ilonggos but i hope it's not the same right now.

i always read your comments and observations here guys, keep it going: applause: :okay:
all comments and opinions are very much welcome, Risk. it's another venue to share our thoughts for Iloilo City's development. Diri sa sagwa, we see things in a very different light. But more than that, we are concerned with the city's and province promotion to help boost our tourism's potential.

yup.the new cbd is a good magnet in attracting businesses esp bpo.we will be more competitive in luring them if we have this area (esp if they apply some portions as an it park) i believe if we have lured some bpo with the current infrastuctures we have then hopefully we can have more if we have this new cbd
It will definitely complement the exisiting accredited centres around the city. Speaking of IT center, what happened to the Iloilo Provincial Capitol's plan to build an IT park in Magsaysay Village? Any idea, guys?

geographic information system, with budgets less than P1million a year - the GIS personnel of the Capitol has slowly built-up their capabilities on digital mapping (ArcGIS, AutoCAD, and Global Positioning Systems operations), acquired plotter, wide scanner, and desktops. One can now scan up to 3.5-ft wide maps used as backdrops in heads-up digitizing.

The GIS center has updated the road networks and acquired thematic maps on slopes, topography, vegetation cover, soil types, erosion potentials, etc. that are necessary in land-use planning.

Guimaras invested i think P40 million for its GIS center, the bulk on orthophotos of the island. I just hope that with that amount of people's money spent they should upload images to google earth so that it could be used by the public. Bacolod, Cebu and other cities have already theirs in google earth.


i'm with the NGO, Green Forum-Western Visayas and one of the converners of RISE. I happen to represent the NGOs in the Infrastructure Dev Com of the RDC and the Execom of the Iloilo City Development Council.
Iloilo's budget for GIS is way too low, I believe. A million-peso per year? I hope they'll raise it up to fasttrack whatever developments' needed for digital mapping.

Totopurz, since you are very much involve in infra development in our province, any idea of the plan panay railways rehabilitation and whereis this project heading? Also, would it be possible if you shared with us what the ICDC's stands for and what are the future projects of ICDC to help boost Iloilo City's economy?

From the slideshow: Mayor Trenas - Iloilo Experience (presented to Iloilo Business Club).

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h291/berniemacksouthcentral/untitled-10.jpg
Diversion Road Area....1981! Look at that now!

the present Diversion Area looks really different from the one above (1980s). Actually, development in Diversion is really slow until 2002 when new establishments started to built new buildings, etc.

Desalination plant aims to solve water shortage

By Kathy M. Villalon

A desalination plant has been put up in Iloilo City in order to provide a solution to the problem of limited water supply here.

The plant is a pilot project of the Mactan Rock Industries, Inc and SM City Iloilo, where it is located.

source: TheNewsToday
This is really a good development for Iloilo's water resources. Thanks.

BTW, I attended the event today, where the tribe Ilonganon and Kahilwayan performed at the Grandstand. After the program, I initially went to Mr. Ben Jimena introduced myself and gave him a promotional "business card", I was shaking like crazy when I handed it out to him ... don't know why, he is very approachable pa gani. He was standing beside Mayor Jerry Treñas, so I decided to introduce myself to him and also gave him a card. He then said "Thank You" and patted me on the back ... OMG!, indi man obvious medyo "star-strucked" ko no, hehe. I told them to visit the site if they have time because it's made to promote Iloilo, hope they do. It'll be a big thing for the site to be endorsed by these two big guys.
Very brilliant idea, Chy. Explore Iloilo goes a long, long way already, and it will gain more and more support as it goes global. Ilonggos here abroad are very much bereft with new developments ongoing in our city and your site is one of the best (if not the best) source of informations for them. I hope you continue your good work, and you'll be rewarded soon. Go Explore Iloilo! The Next BIG Thing for Iloilo's Promotional Ware in the net ! :banana:

Total eyes additional outlets

Petroleum player Total Philippines Corp. will spend at least a quarter of a billion pesos this year to expand its retail business in the country.

Anna Whitehouse, Total president and managing director, told reporters that the company has earmarked P250 million for the development of new stations in 2007.

“This is similar to what we have been investing in the last few years,” she added.

The amount will be spent on the opening of at least 16 gasoline stations and 15 auto LPG facilities. Most of the new stations will be opened mainly in Luzon, where most of the company’s pumps are located, but Whitehouse added that Total plans to open five stations in Iloilo as well.

A portion of the investment will also be used to finance the maintenance and upgrade of the company’s older stations and convenience stores.

“This is the program being rolled out for the moment,” Whitehouse said.

She also disclosed that the company has tied up with auto LPG conversion kit providers. Total supplies Auto LPG for independent oil companies and taxi fleets.

“Auto LPG appeals to the gasoline motorist, especially those who travel a lot, because it is cleaner and substantially cheaper fuel to gasoline,” Whitehouse said.

Moreover, the company is set to launch a specially formulated lubricant for vehicles that run on auto LPG and gasoline. The product, Total Quartz Auto LPG 20W50 high-performance motor oil, is designed to protect the engine and help maintain its performance.

Total started its operations in the country in December of 1998. Since then its network of refilling stations has already reached 98 gasoline stations and eight auto LPG stations. With the upcoming 10th anniversary of Total in the country this year, the company is looking forward to opening its 100th station soon.


from: Manila Times
link: http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/apr/21/yehey/business/20070421bus3.html

---

very good news for Iloilo Gas Industry. The opening of more TOTAL gasoline stations in Iloilo prove of a very good and thriving gasoline industry in the province today. With the entry of five more gasoline stations (from the exisiting ones), few more jobs will be opened to Ilonggos and absolutely a good addition to our growing revenue in the city and province. Also, the entry of these five more new stations in our province is already a good proof the Iloilo's increasing consumption of gas which remains very high maybe due to a huge increase of number of private vehicles added in our streets every year. Kudos !

National News Saturday, April 21, 2007

Hefty deals expected to be sealed during PGMA's short Boao stint

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

BOAO, China, April 20 (PNA) - Deals amounting to close to US$ 2 billion in Chinese investments in the Philippines are expected to be signed during President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s short attendance at the 2007 Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) which kicked off Friday in this scenic coastal town off China’s southernmost province of Hainan.

The President, who is due to arrive at the nearby Haikou International Airport via chartered Philippine Airlines (PAL) flight from Manila early Saturday morning, will highlight her 12-hour stay here by witnessing the signing of four landmark agreements in education, telecommunications, agriculture and energy.

Government officials, led by Trade Secretary Peter Favila and Agriculture Secretary Arthur Yap, will represent the country in the agreements.

Former President and newly reelected BFA Chairman Fidel V. Ramos will welcome President Arroyo upon her arrival at the International Convention Center (ICC) here, minutes before the official opening and welcome rites for dignitaries attending the three-day conclave where the President is one of the speakers at the plenary session.

Wu Bangguo, chairman of the standing committee of the National People’s Congress of the People’s Republic of China, will call on the President at the ICC after the plenary session.

This will be followed by the President’s bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Chaukat Aziz of Pakistan in the same venue.

The top honcho of United Parcel Service (UPS), the world’s biggest delivery firm, will also call on President Arroyo shortly before lunch at the ICC.

At the Haikou International Airport, ZTE Chair Hou Wei Ghui will similarly call on the Chief Executive before her return flight to Manila, capping her itinerary here. (PNA)


I have a feeling nga next week na gid ang inaguration, if not Sunday...

hmmm...sang isa da ka "pamilya" naga uyat sa muelle nga-a wala man na sila naga wangal haw? kulba-an sila? o basi ang "pamilya nga ina man nagadabok para maka create scenario nga indi na kaya sang PPA magkapot sang pier and kinahanglan na ipatake over sa private...and bal-an nyo naman kun sin-o nga grupo subong ang interesado katama magkuha liwat sang pier ah...si "king" nga daan ang ila backer kuno



LABOR UNREST HITS WHARF

Workers demand equal treatment, better pay
Francis Allan L. Angelo
2007-04-21



SOME 200 dockworkers at the Iloilo River Wharf are holding a strike for alleged unfair labor practices committed by the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA).

The strike, which started 7am Friday, is led by the Iloilo River Wharf Dockworkers Union (IRWDU) headed by Antonio Altas Jr.

Altas said their main demand is for the PPA to recognize them as the legitimate labor union representing IRW laborers.

Altas claimed that they are the legal union in the IRW after winning the “consent election” supervised by the Department of Labor and Employment last June 7, 2006.

“We won 200 of the 291 dockworkers, thus we are the recognized union that will represent the workers in all their concerns,” Altas.

But Altas said the PPA has yet to confirm their recognition as the IRW labor group.

The IRWDU is also asking for equal distribution of work at the IRW.

Altas said not all workers are given the chance to work regularly “because only those who are close to the management gets a bigger share of the pie.”

“What prevails at the IRW is bata-bata system. When you are close to the PPA management, you will have more chances to work on cargo ships docking at the IRW,” he added.

Altas said some of the dockworkers wait for one to three months before they can haul cargoes.

He added that IRW laborers are paid P1.08 per bag, regardless of the shipment they haul from the ships.

“There ought to be tariff for each kind of mechanize we haul, particularly the dangerous cargoes such as cement. But what the PPA did is to implement flat rate,” Altas averred.

He also said: “If this is the system, we will go hungry. Given the present rate, we will only earn at least P1,300. Then we will wait for two months before we can work again. How can we survive at P30 per day?”

Altas said the IRWDU has apologized to shippers who were affected by the strike.

“At least, we explained to them why we have to do this. We are only fighting for our rights.”

A dialogue between the PPA and IRWDU will be held today at the National Conciliation and Mediation Board to settle the labor tiff between the two parties.

The Daily Guardian tried to reach PPA officials but to no avail.

--The Guardian

^^
Looks like history is repeating itself in Muelle although hopfully they have it resolved as soon as possible.

I have a feeling nga next week na gid ang inaguration, if not Sunday...

ah ari di sya gale sa amon, mangkoton ko na lang sya karon abi para sigurado:lol:

i hope your feeling is so strong:lol:

Bravo! A very scientific approach to reforestation. I'm glad you didn't just plant mahogany, and mahogany, and mahogany, and mahogany, and mahogany...

Really?? I thought desalination plants were VERY expensive. How large is this 3-million peso plant? Where do they get the salt water? I thought desalination would never touch Philippine shores. So are we giving up on the watershed? Does desalination provide us an excuse to lessen our attention towards reforestation? Desalination will just add to our electric bills. I hope we're not running away from the watershed problem.

This is ridiculous. 1 cubic meter is 1 million grams or 1 metric ton. Is truck water P25 million per cubic meter?!

More wells in Oton?! Oton suffered saltwater intrusion several years ago because of heavy withdrawal of ground water and you want to dig more wells again?!:ohno:

Perhaps we need to create a thread here in SSC to address this worsening problem.

While we welcome new and additional sources of potable water, especially in the short term, somebody should look at the claims of the desalination plant proponent. Some figures don't tally!

Desalination plants require much electricity and at current prices in the city how much would they really produce water? We should also look at their disposal of highly concentrated brine. Remember everything goes somewhere and anything one does will affect its environment.

On the watershed, there should be a serious protection program. Providing us with water is only one of its many functions. Good forest vegetation act as carbon sink, habitat of biodiversity, stabilizes micro climate and aquifiers, etc.

Next 2 months our problem will be too much water - flooding!

^^Bohol has an artificial forrest which is one of it's eco-tourism destinations. Why not Iloilo?
Maasin Watershed has been there for years but major developments are still needed, some places in Iloilo City needs NAWASA in a vital way since many deep wells and other local water sources in the city are positive with E-Coli, so its no longer safe.

We should also have Environmental reserves; for example, our Panay Cloudrunner is now rarely seen in the mountains of Antique and Iloilo. Iloilo/Panay's wildlife is given less attention compared to that of Mindoro and Bohol, it is a fact that we don't know much about our wildlife, we don't even appreciate our natural aviaries/ bird sanctuaries.

Flood Problem... it has been a major concern for decades! Pano man bi indi magbalaha sa Jaro kay ang Floodplains ginhimo Subdivision... tapos ang mga subdivision residents sige reklamo na ginabahaan sila... We should be thankful na a small part of the city lang ang ginabahaan...

geographic information system, with budgets less than P1million a year - the GIS personnel of the Capitol has slowly built-up their capabilities on digital mapping (ArcGIS, AutoCAD, and Global Positioning Systems operations), acquired plotter, wide scanner, and desktops. One can now scan up to 3.5-ft wide maps used as backdrops in heads-up digitizing.

The GIS center has updated the road networks and acquired thematic maps on slopes, topography, vegetation cover, soil types, erosion potentials, etc. that are necessary in land-use planning.

Guimaras invested i think P40 million for its GIS center, the bulk on orthophotos of the island. I just hope that with that amount of people's money spent they should upload images to google earth so that it could be used by the public. Bacolod, Cebu and other cities have already theirs in google earth.

i'm with the NGO, Green Forum-Western Visayas and one of the converners of RISE. I happen to represent the NGOs in the Infrastructure Dev Com of the RDC and the Execom of the Iloilo City Development Council.

wow and oh thanks... btw do you have website of your group? please do keep us updated of issues back there in iloilo. thank you so much.

i know this is not the right thread but i badly needed some advice...

isn't it not good as to say that once you posted your photos in the internet it already belongs to public domain??? i am a little confused with this... what photos can we just look at and what photos can we grab???

this means i have to take off many images that i took and posted somewhere else!!! heheh...

hmmm...sang isa da ka "pamilya" naga uyat sa muelle nga-a wala man na sila naga wangal haw? kulba-an sila? o basi ang "pamilya nga ina man nagadabok para maka create scenario nga indi na kaya sang PPA magkapot sang pier and kinahanglan na ipatake over sa private...and bal-an nyo naman kun sin-o nga grupo subong ang interesado katama magkuha liwat sang pier ah...si "king" nga daan ang ila backer kuno
the family seemed very untouchable. :) and very influential, daks. Mabudlayan siguro ang gusto magwangal sa ila. Some of the children used to be my classmates back in CPU High School kay ara man ina sila dira tanan naga-eleskuwela. Siguro, baskog ka na guid politically, etc kung mapasunod mo ang pamilya nga ini. lol.

I have a feeling nga next week na gid ang inaguration, if not Sunday...
hoping your wish will come true, fer. Wala pa guid abi balita sang definite date kung san-o ang inagurasyon and its taking too much tool sa mga Ilonggos diri sa sagwa ang impending inauguration sini. We've been waiting for this opening so long na. Tani ma-aksyonan na ini ni GMA as soon as possbile.

i know this is not the right thread but i badly needed some advice...

isn't it not good as to say that once you posted your photos in the internet it already belongs to public domain??? i am a little confused with this... what photos can we just look at and what photos can we grab???

this means i have to take off many images that i took and posted somewhere else!!! heheh...
Any images posted in the net are for public viewing, not for personal use, zhock, amidst www is a public domain. But that doesn't mean you can't use them for good purposes. However, it would be nice if the owner knows about it and give you a go signal to use his/her photos. You don't need to take off those images once again (if you posted them already). Just give credit na lang sa photographer kay we have the copyright etiquette, too.

Workers want skills trainings
Jeehan V. Fernandez
2007-04-22

ILONGGO workers demand not only salary increase from their employers but also skills trainings to become competitive.

This was the assessment of Iloilo City opposition councilorable Jose Allen Aquino who served as labor leader for 23 years.

Aquino highlighted the concerns of the labor sector here during a “Candidates’ Forum” hosted by the Iloilo City Hall Press Corps and SKYCable yesterday.

Advocating for workers’ welfare seems to run in the blood of Aquino who is a son of a labor leader aside from being an 18-year president of a local labor union, a 5-year official of National Federation of Free Workers, representative to the provincial and city TESDA council and tripartite industrial peace council, and chief of labor management council in Panay-Guimaras.

Interestingly, Aquino was also born on May1, Labor Day.

“There should be people empowerment by training Ilonggo workers to become competitive because several businesses don’t prefer to hire the locals,” Aquino said.

He added that laborers seek trainings to enhance their working skills.

Aquino bats for Ilonggo workers’ efficiency through the help of TESDA (Technical Education Skills and Development Authority) so “they may be prioritized by hiring companies because I noticed that they are usually at the tail-end of job openings.”

“If they become certified skilled-workers, they will be confident of getting hired. As a labor leader attending several workers’ consultations, the battle cry is that if there’s no salary increase, there should be improvement trainings for the laborers to be multi-skilled. All they want is to be marketable so they could look for other jobs or go abroad for better opportunities,” Aquino said.

He said workers should be likewise familiar with the aspects of labor-employer relationship and labor laws and standards.

“If they are aware of labor management, they could prevent problems that may arise from their workplace,” said Aquino.

If ever he gets a seat in the City Council, Aquino said he will initiate a “workers’ affairs office” to protect the laborers in the metropolis.

He added that there are disempowered organizations such as the transport sector which is divided into two factions.

Aquino said the differences of drivers’ associations might be addressed by the City government by attempting to provide a City Hall-subsidized gasoline station.

from: The Guardian Iloilo
link: http://www.theguardianiloilo.ph/localnews0.php?id=2552

-----
^^ training is very important. Even diri sa sagwa, provided ang tanan sang training and updates all the time. Tani sa aton dira, amo man ini ang himuon nila. But city hall-subsidized gasoline stations? he he. Is he joking? I hope he's thinking more on empowering not supporting and clinging. :lol:

hoping your wish will come true, fer. Wala pa guid abi balita sang definite date kung san-o ang inagurasyon and its taking too much tool sa mga Ilonggos diri sa sagwa ang impending inauguration sini. We've been waiting for this opening so long na. Tani ma-aksyonan na ini ni GMA as soon as possbile.


Any images posted in the net are for public viewing, not for personal use, zhock, amidst www is a public domain. But that doesn't mean you can't use them for good purposes. However, it would be nice if the owner knows about it and give you a go signal to use his/her photos. You don't need to take off those images once again (if you posted them already). Just give credit na lang sa photographer kay we have the copyright etiquette, too.

thanks... jeez, i cant recall where i took that truckload of photos...

im really tired of waiting for our new airport... whew..... but the least that we can do is to wait... the most....still wait....
just soar high iloilo...

zhock> tama si kirby. photos uploadin in the internet are supposedly "for-eyes-ony" but because of the ease of "copy/pasting" we sometime forget that this is not the right thing to do.

the least that you can do when u use an image "for personal purposes" is provide a link back to the image source and the name of the photographer. pero pag commercial usage, ibang usapan na yan.

Chymera & I have been victims of these photograph vultures in the internet. thats y I am now forced to insert watermark to my photos. :)

mAyung hapon iloilo!

Yum yum yum!!! Bisaya nga manok!

Demand for native chicken on the rise
By Ma. Diosa Labiste
Inquirer
Last updated 08:37am (Mla time) 04/22/2007


ILOILO CITY—It may not be the toast of fast-food chains that favor plump breasts and tubby thighs but the demand for native chicken is increasing because of the growing preference for lean and healthy source of food.

Scientists are now having a second look at native chicken, locally known as “darag,” which is the strain indigenous and most dominant in Western Visayas. Government agencies are coming up with a package of technology on breeding and marketing native chicken.

Bernabe Cocjin, a retired professor and former president of Western Visayas State University, who did pioneering studies on “darag” since 1985, said native chicken-raising should meet the demand of the niche market that is partial to organically grown or naturally raised food.

“These consumers are discriminating and willing to pay more. They are after flavor, not the size,” said Cocjin.

The US-trained researchers have neglected native chicken in favor of foreign-breeds in the 1950s up to the ’80s, says Cocjin. But today’s health-conscious individuals prefer native chicken that are free-range and without antibiotics.

In the Western Visayas region, the task of promoting native chicken falls on the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Forestry and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCARRD) through its regional associate, the Western Visayas Agriculture and Resources Research and Development Consortium (WESVARRDEC). The WVSU is in charge of “darag” research.

In 2004, government agencies in Iloilo organized Manokan Festival during the Agriculture Food Fair. The festival included lectures on native chicken and a display of cooked native chicken from research stations and from a popular restaurant, Tatoy’s Manokan. The following year, PCARRD approved eight projects on native chicken that include studies on feed and value-added products.

Cocjin says the Philippine native chicken evolved from breeds that can thrive even in the most marginal environment and with minimal intervention. The “darag,” a strain dominant in Panay, Negros and Guimaras islands, was said to have evolved from Red Jungle Fowl (Gallus gallus bankiva)

“Darag” means yellow in Hiligaynon and the native chicken is so named because of its yellowish plumage. The rooster displays shiny red plumage with light brown hackle and black feathers on its tail. The hen has yellowish-brown plumage with yellow streaks.
The eggs hatch from 18 to 21 days and the chicks go through brooding for 20 days. With minimal feeding, the chicks become “hardened” when left to grow in the backyard or fields, scratching for worms and anything that fancy them. The chicken are matured between 75 days to 120 days.

Native chicken is known for its distinct flavor and lean meat. Cocjin says that the unique taste is due to the presence of aspartic acid, a free amino acid in their bodies.

Aspartic acid, which is among the building blocks of protein, helps the chicken grow muscles faster. But since native chicken are smaller and grow more slowly than the other type. The chicken are leaner from having enough exercise as they are usually left free to roam around.

Western Visayas is the top producer of native chicken. The 2002 inventory showed that the region has 11,400 heads or 15 percent of the total native chicken production in the country. Central Visayas is a far second with 7,000 heads.

In his research, Cocjin has collected a breeding flock of “darag” and purified the stock by inbreeding for eight generations. He has now an elite flock for the production of “hardened” chicks for distribution to poultry raisers. Cocjin’s selected native chicken can weigh up to 1 kilogram at 90 to 100 days old. For his work, Cocjin was awarded the 2003 Distinguished Animal Scientists Award by the Philippine Society of Animal Science (PSAS).

A 2002 study conducted by Enrique Altis and Jaime Cabarles of Central Philippine University, Iloilo, noted that native chicken get premium prices when traded along Rizal Street in front of Iloilo Central Market during Fridays and Sundays. Younger upgraded chicken or free-range broilers are also sold but at a lesser price compared to pure native chicken.

The study said Iloilo City consumes 1,785 heads of native chicken a day but it could reach up to 2,600 heads daily during the months of October to February. A slight decrease in consumption is felt during the lean months from May to August.

There could be a hundred recipes for native chicken but the more popular in Iloilo is roasted or “lechon manok,” barbecue on spit, “adobo” and “tinu-om.” “Lechon manok” is whole roasted chicken, rubbed with spices and stuffed with lemon grass. Tatoy’s Manokan and Breakthrough, two popular restaurants in Iloilo City, sell lechon manok at P225 and P220, respectively.

Cocjin says the chemical analysis of lechon manok shows moisture at 58 to 60 percent; ash, 2.40-2.60 percent; energy, 1576-171 kcal/gram; total fat, 1.90-2.50 percent; total carbohydrates, 0 percent; protein, 34.40-37.10 percent; calcium, 12.30-15.70 percent.

Chicken barbecue on spit is popular in public markets while “adobo,” which is chicken stewed in vinegar, soy sauce and spices is available in countless eateries all over the city.

“Tinu-om” is a speciality dish of chicken soup with basic spices and small knot of lemon grass and placed on double layers of banana leaves. Each bundle is made to sit inside a pot of boiling water until the chicken softens and combine with the spices to become the flavorful, life-affirming soup. Many restaurants offering Ilonggo cuisine offers “tinu-om” but the best “tinu-om” is said to come from Cabatuan town, 24 km from Iloilo City. The town holds a festival to showcase “tinu-om.”

Tests have been conducted on processing and vacuum-packed chicken products like lechon, “adobo” and “tinu-om.” For example, a vacuum-packed “tinu-om” keeps for 21 days in the freezer and six days in the refrigerator. If kept on room temperature, it has to be eaten within the day it was cooked.

Link : http://business.inquirer.net/money/topstories/view_article.php?article_id=61784

wow and oh thanks... btw do you have website of your group? please do keep us updated of issues back there in iloilo. thank you so much.

We are still preparing a website for our group, although some sites featured us. Our participatory GIS work can be glimpsed at http://www.iapad.org/applications/protected_areas/nwpipa.htm

as we are celebrating Erath Day today, may I invite you to our docu presentation: Earth Statements:

Part 1, on the biodiversity situation of Panay:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eR5JuPUdnrM

Part 2, indigenous people and initiative on Maasin Watershed
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7oyA5s8ULg

Part 3, Iloilo City wastes problem and initiatives
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kJFJoXEu3h4

good morning everyone. sorry if ill start the day on a negative note.
i really thought that migedc just used my photo for their document that was presented to the Iloilo business Club. i was so surprised to see that they also used it in the home page of their web site! tsk tsk. i dont have any other options left but to write a letter of complaint addressed to the mayor and to the officials of migedc.

screenshot of their website below. the photo of the dinagyang ati is mine. I taken last june 12, when tribu ilonganon performed during the independence day rites. twas originally published in my blog june 15, 2006


http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i149/ericd001/migedc.jpg

^^
the dinagyang pic is your while the aduana shot is chymera's.
next time make it a point to visit the offices of these orgs and :bash: them :lol:

good morning everyone. sorry if ill start the day on a negative note.
i really thought that migedc just used my photo for their document that was presented to the Iloilo business Club. i was so surprised to see that they also used it in the home page of their web site! tsk tsk. i dont have any other options left but to write a letter of complaint addressed to the mayor and to the officials of migedc.

screenshot of their website below. the photo of the dinagyang ati is mine. I taken last june 12, when tribu ilonganon performed during the independence day rites. twas originally published in my blog june 15, 2006


http://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i149/ericd001/migedc.jpg

The one who posted the photo is Mr. Nereo Lujan, who is from Cabatuan (Gian knows him). I complained about the photo months ago but I didn't realize na imo man to gali pic.

They added credit at the bottom of the page:

Photos Credits in Flash Presentation: Marcos Caratao Jr., Leo Solinap, flickr.com

you should send them an email to include your name:
cuiphils@canurb.com or midc@globelines.com.ph

Photos during the sneak peak performance of Tribu Kahilwayan and Ilonganon ..

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/204/466267720_26f7af9d8a.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/181/466267566_54d1ddd873.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/188/466276197_73127ca3b6.jpg

Ilonganon:

sq1HQCfjf84

Kahilwayan:

89bUkWF0umc

Ongoing infrastructure project in Iloilo .... there's like a lot of cranes in Iloilo right now, it seems the whole city is underconstruction ... from Jaro, to La Paz, City Proper, Mandurriao, and Molo

Infante Flyover:

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/179/466276095_c81d4f36be.jpg

Box Culvert in La Paz (Iloilo Flood Control Project)

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/185/466268572_f4e2acc0e1.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/203/466275705_065fccfd2f.jpg

Bridge in Balabago, Jaro (Iloilo Flood Control Project)

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/221/466275629_848ba1ceec.jpg

SM JARO expansion perhaps?

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/212/466268062_65b0a73e8e.jpg

other images:

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/186/466275923_f9189d1a55.jpg

this is the first time I've noticed, Mang Inasal now in Calle Real

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/231/466275163_0363eadfa5.jpg

Seal in Aduana - Iloilo Customs House

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/168/466267858_9ffd31189e.jpg

Lizares Mansion

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/217/466268220_d6ce92fb60.jpg

great pics as usual chymera

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

re:CONVENTION CENTER

here are some nice designs that can be incorporated.
we need to deviate from the usual concrete facade design

http://www.glassmagazine.net/images/fea.stadium2.jpg

http://www.traveltacoma.com/images/db/static/Tacoma%20Convention%20Center%20Front.jpg

http://www.laconiv.org/2006/pix/acc-towers_600x450.jpg

http://www.gablesigns.com/images/newconventioncenter.jpeg

http://www.hughpearman.com/2006/illustrations/RogersJavitsCenter_01a.jpg

http://www.anaheimconventioncenter.com/images/anaheimcc/setup/ACF216B.jpg

http://www.iaam.org/facility_manager/pages/2006_Aug_Sept/issueart/sales1.jpg

Photos during the sneak peak performance of Tribu Kahilwayan and Ilonganon ..





Ilonganon:

sq1HQCfjf84

Kahilwayan:

89bUkWF0umc


i have already seen theperformances of 5 of the 18 festivals who will be performing.

these are the dinagyang, kahilwayan, lumad basakanon, alikaraw and padul ong.

could somebody please inform the staff of kahilwayan.... BALISKAD ILA FLAG. When displaying the philippine flag vertically, the red side should be on the right, on the observer's perspective.

daw mas nami ang lahilwayan last year. this year di indi clear ang concept/story line. which is a big criteria sa Aliwan.

CHY> i have already sent an email to the address you provided. i just asked them to provide a link back to my blog, or take down my image completely.

bernie has also asked my to send a formal complaint, na send ko na sa iya i think ihatag ya ni kay sir Ben or kay mayor. I addressed my letter to the city may, being the chairmain of migedc.

Gov't moves Iloilo airport site auction to May 9

By Rocel Felix
Xinhua Financial News Service


THE DEPARTMENT of Finance said it has rescheduled to May 9 the bidding of a 54-hectare airport property in Iloilo in central Philippines as the government prepares to open a new airport in the province.

The auction is originally slated to take place Tuesday, but finance undersecretary John Sevilla said more time was needed to thresh out the terms of the sale.

"The postponement was mutually agreed upon by the government and the bidders," he said, noting that all prequalified bidders were still intent on acquiring the property.

Last month, the government said five major property companies will be jostling for the contract to acquire the Iloilo site, namely, Ayala Land Inc, Empire East Land Holdings Inc, Robinsons Land Corp, Rockwell Land Corp and SM Prime Holdings Inc.

The property will become vacant later this month, when the new Iloilo airport is scheduled to open.

The finance department heads the inter-agency group which has been tasked to privatize the property

Spu iloilo holds strategic planning in Thailand

Information Communication Technology is the language of the times. The Technology Plan, (ICT: From Promise to Practice) which was launched last November 2007, reflects the University’s commitment to transformative learning by bridging pedagogy with technology.

In support of this technology initiative and in continuous pursuit of professional academic excellence and leadership, St. Paul University Iloilo administrators, under the leadership of its dynamic President, Sr. Carolina Agravante, SPC conducted a Strategic Planning Workshop in Bangkok, Thailand last March 26-31, 2007.

....

Implementing this strategic plan is like embracing the University culture: it entails a sense of ownership from all of its stakeholders. This is most essential as the University prepares for the imminent transfer to its new site in Ticud, La Paz and works on its technology-enriched academic curriculum.

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

Source: The Guardian Iloilo: http://www.theguardianiloilo.ph/localnews0.php?id=2566

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

Donors answer call of Ateneo Project

While the Ateneo de Iloilo (AdI) community continues to ask for prayers and financial support as it moves closer to fulfilling its dream of building a new campus, certain individuals lent a helping hand through their donations.

These came in the form of the P3-million donation from singer and sugar magnate Jose Marie Chan, and the P 5-million pledge from the family of Ambassador Oscar Ledesma and Donya Juanita Ledesma. For this, they will earn the naming rights for the new building's Audio-Visual Room and Conference Room, respectively.

....

This refers to the site engineering construction, or the development of the roads, and drainage system, among others, which will be the focus of the first quarter of 2007.

On the other hand, the vertical construction, or the actual construction of Phase 1, will hopefully follow. Phase 1 includes the Pre-School and five-storey Elementary buildings.

Source: The New Today: http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/04/23/donors.answer.call.of.ateneo.project.html

^^ other incorrect reporting. First Quarter of 2007 is already over. We are already in second quarter of 2007.


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

Watch out for this


ari ang trailer:

SO_lj_ZadAg



from: http://www.dinagyang.com/forum/index.php?topic=2393.0

An ilonggo film. This will be shown in Robinsons Iloilo on July 2007. I am not sure if this will be also shown in Manila.

SPU Iloilo holds strategic planning in Thailand
2007-04-23

Information Communication Technology is the language of the times. The Technology Plan, (ICT: From Promise to Practice) which was launched last November 2007, reflects the University’s commitment to transformative learning by bridging pedagogy with technology.

In support of this technology initiative and in continuous pursuit of professional academic excellence and leadership, St. Paul University Iloilo administrators, under the leadership of its dynamic President, Sr. Carolina Agravante, SPC conducted a Strategic Planning Workshop in Bangkok, Thailand last March 26-31, 2007.

Dr. Nenita Habulan, Associate Professor at De La Salle University Manila and SPU Iloilo’s Educational Technology consultant, served as the planning consultant and facilitator of the said workshop.

The workshop yielded significant revisions on the University’s Vision-Mission and a three-year development plan for the key result areas on Christian Formation, Administration, Faculty, Instruction, and Student Services.

The participants also visited the SPC school in Thailand, Trinity College, and some tourist spots like the famous temples with the golden Buddhas, the Rose Garden and The Wax Museum. Travel arrangements were made by Airwing Travel and Tours, Inc.

Implementing this strategic plan is like embracing the University culture: it entails a sense of ownership from all of its stakeholders. This is most essential as the University prepares for the imminent transfer to its new site in Ticud, La Paz and works on its technology-enriched academic curriculum.

from: The Daily Guardian Iloilo
link: http://www.theguardianiloilo.ph/localnews0.php?id=2566


Dumpsite off limits to scavengers soon
Jeehan V. Fernandez
2007-04-23

THE Calajunan dumpsite in Mandurriao, Iloilo City will soon be closed to scavengers digging for recyclables for a living.

This, as the Iloilo City Solid Waste Management Board (ICSWMB) lays down plans for the establishment of a 10-hectare Sanitary Landfill Facility (SLF) on the 22-hectare dumpsite.

ICSWMB is chaired by Mayor Jerry Treñas in partnership with the German Technical Cooperation (GTZ) which pledged technical assistance for the SLF project.

The board has lined up several initiatives in the project, particularly the Social Development Component (SDC) for families living near the dumpsite.

SDC aims to eradicate waste picking activities at the Calajunan disposal area by the time it is converted into an SLF.

Republic Act 9003 or Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000, which mandates all local government units (LGUs) to close their open dumpsites, also bans waste picking in the disposal area.

ICSWMB said around 158 families are engaged in waste picking activities which have been their main source of income.

With the outlined waste-pickers’ socio-economic development plan, the affected families have manifested interest in the proposed alternative livelihood opportunities within and outside of SLF.

Non-solid waste management (SWM) alternatives include animal husbandry, vulcanizing, driving, handicrafts, among others.

Dress-making has been implemented among women. The beneficiaries will also taught on basic sewing skills needed to craft out products such as kits, bags, hats, belts, cellphone holders out of recyclable materials.

GTZ will likewise initiate marketing venues for all finished products while the waste-pickers’ association will establish their own marketing network.

The SWM-related opportunities are composting, applying cover material for residual wastes, and waste trading in the city.

The affected families will be trained to gather recyclables from institutional and commercial establishments for waste trading.

from: The Daily Guardian Iloilo
link: http://www.theguardianiloilo.ph/localnews0.php?id=2559

Treñas tops poll survey
Francis Allan L. Angelo
2007-04-23

MAYOR Jerry Treñas continues to lord the mayoralty race in Iloilo City, based on the recent survey conducted by Random Access Consultants Inc. (RACI).

The survey was conducted Apr. 13-14 with 600 respondents from 40 barangays in Iloilo City.

The RACI survey, which used the multi-stage probability sampling method, has a 95 percent level of confidence and a ± 4 margin of error.

Overall, Treñas, who is running under the Lakas-CMD banner, won 82.7 percent of the respondents while his rival from the opposition party, Atty. Joshau Alim got 6.8 percent.

The third mayoralty bet Juanito Gaje only got 0.2 percent.

By district, Treñas also trounced his opponents: Iloilo City Proper – 80 percent; Molo – 78.1 percent; Arevalo – 83.3 percent; Mandurriao – 85 percent; LaPaz – 89.3 percent; Lapuz – 83.3 percent; and Jaro – 82.7 percent.

Treñas is also the candidate of preference of both male (80.4 percent) and female (83.6 percent) voters.

By age group, the incumbent mayor got the nod of voters 18-21 years old (80 percent); 22-29 years old (83.2 percent); 30-39 years old (84 percent); 40-49 years old (83.2 percent; 50-59 percent (78.8 percent); and 60 years old and above (84.4 percent).

Treñas also performed well among voters of various educational attainments.

Some 81.1 percent of voters who reached elementary school/elementary graduates chose Treñas while 83.3 percent of voters who attended high school/high school graduate/vocational school will vote for him on May 14.

A total of 82.2 percent of voters who went to college/college gradates/post graduates likewise chose Treñas.

Based on the 2001 election results from the Commission on Elections, Treñas won with 56,501 votes beating former congressman Rafael Lopez Vito with 43,123 votes and Vice Mayor Guillermo Dela Llana with 39,576 votes and.

from: The Daily Guardian Iloilo
link: http://www.theguardianiloilo.ph/localnews0.php?id=2558

great pictures Chymera. If you're observation is right about the cranes all over the city and nearby municipalities, then this is a very good news to all. It means development and progress of investments and businesses are all ongoing in Iloilo right this time. Paspas na kita ! :banana:

This is the continuation of the article posted by Soulmaker re: ATENEO DE ILOILO
Donors answer call of Ateneo Project
....

These came in the form of the P3-million donation from singer and sugar magnate Jose Marie Chan, and the P 5-million pledge from the family of Ambassador Oscar Ledesma and Donya Juanita Ledesma. For this, they will earn the naming rights for the new building's Audio-Visual Room and Conference Room, respectively.

In this connection, the total donations and pledges for the project fund as of April is P87 million.

"Expect a lot of excitement this year, because this is not just a dream anymore, but a vision unfolding before your eyes," said School Director Fr. Manny Uy, as he encourages the AdI community,

"Do not just be a bystander watching. Be a part of the miracle. Participate in the miracle as we realize the dream. Be a part of it as it happens."

To note, with the approval of the Board of Trustees (the highest implementing body in the school), April 12 marked the continuation of the horizontal construction of the site in the 7.5-hectare lot in Brgy. Rafael, Diversion Road, Mandurriao.

This refers to the site engineering construction, or the development of the roads, and drainage system, among others, which will be the focus of the first quarter of 2007.

On the other hand, the vertical construction, or the actual construction of Phase 1, will hopefully follow. Phase 1 includes the Pre-School and five-storey Elementary buildings.

from: The News Today
link: http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/04/23/donors.answer.call.of.ateneo.project.html
Very impressive development for Ateneans in Iloilo. 87 million php is already a big pledges for school's construction. I'm looking forward to see the beautiful NEW campus of Ateneo de Iloilo in the next two years. The Eagel deiniftely is spreading its wings to this Educational Center of the South. Viva Ateneo ! :banana: :banana:

SM JARO expansion perhaps?
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/212/466268062_65b0a73e8e.jpg
If this will be another expansion of SM in Iloilo City, then SM's business in the city must be very good. Their newly-built SM-Mini Mall in Delagdo is undergoing expnasion as well and in next few months, it will be opened for public and leasees already. Another new addition to an already good array of shops within new SM Delgado. And now, SM Jaro is also expanding? Gee, it seems that all SMs in the cityare gearing towards expansion. Are they preparing for a mall competition in Iloilo for a very near future?

Gov't moves Iloilo airport site auction to May 9
By Rocel Felix
Xinhua Financial News Service

THE DEPARTMENT of Finance said it has rescheduled to May 9 the bidding of a 54-hectare airport property in Iloilo in central Philippines as the government prepares to open a new airport in the province.

due to a delayed inauguration of the new Iloilo Airport in Sta.Barbara-Cabatuan, all other businesses and investments are put on hold as well. I hope they will not delay the opening of the new airport for a month cos they are also delaying constructions of other businesses in town. Thanks for posting. venntro.

i have already seen theperformances of 5 of the 18 festivals who will be performing.

these are the dinagyang, kahilwayan, lumad basakanon, alikaraw and padul ong.

could somebody please inform the staff of kahilwayan.... BALISKAD ILA FLAG. When displaying the philippine flag vertically, the red side should be on the right, on the observer's perspective.

daw mas nami ang lahilwayan last year. this year di indi clear ang concept/story line. which is a big criteria sa Aliwan.
Even though both tribes are from Iloilo, they're both still competitors and are vying for the top spot ... I've seen the actual performance of Kahilwayan during the Kasadyahan, it was full of passion and there was a lot more going on with the choreography especially with the acrobatics. Maybe its just a strategy of theirs to surprise the audience and the other tribes during the competition proper.

Here's some of the pics taken during the Kasadyahan Dinagyang Competition 2007:

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/160/375482433_4e082117e1.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/173/375482813_a8eedbeec4.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/153/375482586_5e8e45e5c7.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/135/375482509_727e54b00a.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/173/375482736_fab8502957.jpg

http://www.exploreiloilo.com/kahilyawan-kasadyahan.html

Tribu Kahilwayan performance last Friday was not what they are going to show in Aliwan Festival. Street dance lang nila ato. Kita mo wala sila props. Regarding the flag baliskad gid man flag sa "Cry of Sta. Barbara".

Kit-anay lang kita Eric sa sabado.

Here are some of my photos taken last year Aliwan Fiesta.

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e248/lewdsaint/Kahilwayan1.jpg

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e248/lewdsaint/Kahilwayan4.jpg

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e248/lewdsaint/Kahilwayan3.jpg

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e248/lewdsaint/Kahilwayan2.jpg

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e248/lewdsaint/Float1.jpg


Look who's this? :D
http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e248/lewdsaint/49ec4208.jpg

^^ hehe this year's Martin Delgado looks kind of short compared to last year's :)

After 5 days off the net, nahidlaw man ako sang SSC. Thank you for posting all the articles, guys.

This is the continuation of the article posted by Soulmaker re: ATENEO DE ILOILO

Very impressive development for Ateneans in Iloilo. 87 million php is already a big pledges for school's construction. I'm looking forward to see the beautiful NEW campus of Ateneo de Iloilo in the next two years. The Eagel deiniftely is spreading its wings to this Educational Center of the South. Viva Ateneo ! :banana: :banana:
I'm glad to read (and know) that Ateneo de Iloilo has already started the construction process for their new and bigger campus in Diversion Area. The amount pledged is quite a good start. Remember, CPU have raised a 100-million for their Centennial Celebration for a three-year period? I'm sure Ateneo de Iloilo amidst having a small number of alumni compared to CPU can surely raise bigger amount as it is the home of sons and daughters of businessmen (aside from the three Chinese Schools) in Iloilo City. By 2 years' time, I can Ateneo de Iloilo Diversion campus to cater Elementary and Secondary programmes. More to come for Ateneo, the next BIG thing in Iloilo's present educational development.

If this will be another expansion of SM in Iloilo City, then SM's business in the city must be very good. Their newly-built SM-Mini Mall in Delagdo is undergoing expnasion as well and in next few months, it will be opened for public and leasees already. Another new addition to an already good array of shops within new SM Delgado. And now, SM Jaro is also expanding? Gee, it seems that all SMs in the cityare gearing towards expansion. Are they preparing for a mall competition in Iloilo for a very near future?
I hope it is. Are they not considering building a mini-mall instead rather than a supermarket or stand-alon store expansion? The problem with SM in Jaro Plaza is its limited space. They should start aquiring properties around especially at the back area. Otherwise, they should opt to expanding the store vertically.

due to a delayed inauguration of the new Iloilo Airport in Sta.Barbara-Cabatuan, all other businesses and investments are put on hold as well. I hope they will not delay the opening of the new airport for a month cos they are also delaying constructions of other businesses in town. Thanks for posting. venntro.
You're right, Kirb. maybe we'll wait a little bit longer. Who knows, GMA will give more projects for Iloilo this time, now that we have a new airport already. The best gift (just in case) will be the granting of "open skies" for the new Iloilo Airport.

Ongoing infrastructure project in Iloilo .... there's like a lot of cranes in Iloilo right now, it seems the whole city is underconstruction ... from Jaro, to La Paz, City Proper, Mandurriao, and Molo

Infante Flyover:

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/179/466276095_c81d4f36be.jpg

Box Culvert in La Paz (Iloilo Flood Control Project)

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/185/466268572_f4e2acc0e1.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/203/466275705_065fccfd2f.jpg

Bridge in Balabago, Jaro (Iloilo Flood Control Project)

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/221/466275629_848ba1ceec.jpg

other images:

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/186/466275923_f9189d1a55.jpg

this is the first time I've noticed, Mang Inasal now in Calle Real

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/231/466275163_0363eadfa5.jpg

Seal in Aduana - Iloilo Customs House

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/168/466267858_9ffd31189e.jpg

Lizares Mansion

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/217/466268220_d6ce92fb60.jpg
These pictures are really brilliant ! The presence of cranes all over the metropolis is a sign of the ongoing development MIGEDC members have. It's nice to note that in last decade, I can barely see any trucks roaming around the city either drillings within our background. Now, it's like the whole metro areas is well alive and kicking.

Btw, Lizares Mansion remains unbeatable. Definitely a very iconic and imposing srtucture in the district of Jaro.

Cloud seeding operation in
Iloilo to commence this week

ILOILO City – In response to the directive of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, the Department of Agriculture (DA) through the Bureau of Soils and Water Management (BSWS), is expected to start with the cloud seeding operation anytime this week.

This was confirmed by DA OIC-Regional Executive Director Larry Nacionales who accompanied the team from Metro Manila last week that conducted a validation on the viability of cloud seeding operation in Iloilo.

The team composed of representatives from the Bureau of Soils and Water Management made a study of the cloud formation and its impact on standing root crops that might be affected by the cloud seeding.

The validation was made starting Thursday until Saturday last week.

During the validation Nacionales said they have found out that the available cloud formation here is capable in supporting the cloud seeding.

It was also agreed that the operation would be focused only on the watershed area in Maasin town.

The team visited the watershed area and discovered that the water level at the Maasin Dam is very low. The low water level resulted to scarcity of water supply in Iloilo City and seven other municipalities. The Metro Iloilo Water District sources about three-fourths of its water supply from the Maasin Dam.

Likewise, the farmers are also in need of rain for their land preparation. He added that there are dry seeded areas for rice and corn, which will surely germinate if it rains.

Nacionales said a four-seater plane that can load up to 500 kilos of salt in just one flight is presently available to accommodate the operation.

If all concerns will be finalized, the cloud seeding operation could start either Tuesday or Wednesday this week. The operation that will take about two weeks will be supervised by a Technical Assistant from the Bureau of Spoils and Management.

He said that initially, the regional office of the DA is ready to provide financial assistance to the operation and will be reimbursed by the central office later.

The two-week operation is estimated to cost the government some P1 million.

source: Panay News (http://www.panaynews.com.ph/news3.htm)

Panay’s oldest town to mark 435th foundation

ILOILO -- The Municipality of Oton will be celebrating its 435th Foundation Day on May 3 through the week-long Katagman Festival.

This year’s festival has the theme “Ipanubli Kag Tipigan, Ogtonganon nga Kasaysayan” and will kick-off on April 28 with a parade.

The succeeding days will feature the following attractions: Trade Fair, Laro ng Lahi, On-the-Spot Painting Contest, Fun Run, “Bomborador” (kite-flying contest), Hataw-Sayaw, Porma Baras (sand-sculpture contest) and the Streetdancing/ Musical, dance and Theater Competition.

The gold mask similar to the one dug up in Brgy. San Antonio in 1973 (now on display in the National Museum) will be highlighted during the tribe contest. The mask symbolizes the rich historical and cultural heritage of Oton.

OTON: BRIEF HISTORY

Katagman was the ancient name of the nose-shaped islet that was surrounded by the Batiano River. Because of its shape, the island was later called “Irong-Irong” before it officially became “Iloilo”

Katagman (now Brgy. San Antonio) was the seat of the Madia-as Confederation (Katiringban et Madia-as) in Panay under Datu Paiburong until 1226 A.D. It is one of the few places in Panay where civilization first started and the Batiano River, then a flourishing Malay Port was where the trading among the Malays, the natives, and the Chinese merchants took place.

Fray Martin de Rada, a famous cosmographer and one of the five religious in the expedition of Miguel Lopez de Legaspi, preached the Christian doctrine along the Batiano River, hence, Katagman also became the gateway of Christianity.

In May 3, 1572, Fray Martin de Rada officially signed the acceptance of Oton as Pueblo and the seat of mission. It became the third in the country after Manila and Cebu.

It was a big pueblo which then included the present towns of Alimodian, Leon, San Miguel and part of Cabatuan.

In the same year, the pueblo was made capital of the Province of Oton (La Alcadia de Oton) which covered the islands of Panay, Tablas, Sibuyan, Guimaras, Romblon, and western part of Negros.

source; Panay News (http://www.panaynews.com.ph/news5.htm)

Lambunao Bridge Inaugurated

Written by Sheila Mae Bartolome (PEO)
Monday, 23 April 2007
60- L.M. Misi Modular Steel Bridge Inaugurated

http://www.iloilo.gov.ph/images/stories/upv_pics/bridge_1.jpg http://www.iloilo.gov.ph/images/stories/upv_pics/bridge_2.jpg

The construction of the 60- L.M. Misi Modular Steel Bridge located at Brgy. Misi, Lambunao, Iloilo was inaugurated last April 18, 2007. Gracing the occasion were Governor Niel D. Tupas, Sr., Director Paisal O. Abutazil, OPDS-DILG and Ma. Eleonor Antiquiera, ARD, DILG RO VI who lead the cutting of ribbon. Also present were Provincial Engineer Gracianito L. Lucero together with his staff and Municipal officials of Lambunao led by Mayor Ignacio L. Ramirez, Jr., Barangay Captains Eden Gumana and Louie Lebig.

The construction of this project started last September 19, 2005. It is implemented under the President’s Bridge Program-Phase II of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) with the assistance of the Austrian Government. This project utilizes the WAAGNER BIRO Modular Steel Bridge Technology.

The bridge has a span of 60-L.M. and its superstructure is made of high grade steel; with concrete roadway and sidewalks; and reinforced concrete abutments supported on pre-stressed concrete piles. It replaces the existing Bailey bridge spanning the Ulian River from Brgy. Misi to Brgy. Tampucao and other Barangays.

Construction works consists of three (3) phases: Phase I amounts to P 6,913,603.10 and is under contract with JHJ Construction Incorporated. Phase II and Phase III amounts to P 3,294,775.67 and P 722, 230.41 respectively, all under contract with Topmost Development & Marketing Corporation. All fundings were sourced from the 20% IRA Fund.

On December 17, 2005, typhoon “Quedan” struck the Province that resulted on a flood level that is very much higher than the highest flood level in the approved design. This situation prompted the revision of the bridge elevation by increasing the original design height of the columns by 1.35 meters.

The increase in height of the columns resulted to an additive increase in volume of concrete, volume of embankment materials and grouted riprap for the approaches of the bridge.

The delay of construction was due to numerous technical revisions on the plans which resulted to several time suspension and time extension granted on this project.

This project is being implemented by Provincial Government of Iloilo under Gov. Niel D. Tupas, Sr. and supervised by the Provincial Engineer's Office headed by Provincial Engineer Gracianito L. Lucero.

This bridge is a very strategic and a vital link to several barangays across the Ulian River which it spans. It will spur economic development to Brgys. Tampucao, Bontoc, Hipgos, Cabugao and Caningwan. It can also cut travel distance of hinterland barangays such as Brgys. Agsirab, Bagongbong, ayobo Cabatangan and Agnisauan to Lambunao Poblacion by about 8 kms. It can also open up the Eco-Tourism potential of these places.

Last Updated ( Monday, 23 April 2007 )

source: The Province of Iloilo Official Website (http://www.iloilo.gov.ph/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=353&Itemid=85)

Bidding for old Iloilo airport postponed

ILOILO City – The Department of Finance on Monday announced that it has postponed the bidding of the old Iloilo airport in Mandurriao, Iloilo City to May 9 in order to give the government and the prospective bidders more time to thresh out issues concerning the property.

The 54-hectare airport was originally scheduled to be bid out today, April 24.

“The bid date has been postponed to May 9. There are still several issues that needed to be threshed out before the bid date,” Finance Undersecretary John Philip Sevilla said.

He did not elaborate.

The bidding of the property in Iloilo City scheduled today has been moved to May 9.

Sevilla, however, assured that the delay in the bidding was not caused by lack of interest from the five pre-qualified bidders.

Five of the country’s most prominent real-estate firms have signified their interest to buy the old Iloilo aiport. These companies are Ayala Land Inc., Empire East Holdings Inc., the Gokongwei-led Robinsons Land Corp., the Lopez-controlled Rockwell Land Corp. and the SM Prime Holdings Inc. of the Sy family.

Real estate broker CB Richard Ellis has placed the property's value between P500 million and P2 billion.

The government has earlier said that part of the sale proceeds would be used to pay a P6.2 billion loan from Japan Bank for International Cooperation, which was used to finance the construction of the new Iloilo International Airport in the Sta. Barbara – Cabanatuan area.

The proceeds will also be used to fund the construction of a first class highway interconnecting the provinces of Iloilo , Capiz, Antique and Aklan.(GMANews.TV/PN)

source; Panay News (http://www.panaynews.com.ph/business.htm)

Photos during the sneak peak performance of Tribu Kahilwayan and Ilonganon ..

Ilonganon:

sq1HQCfjf84

Kahilwayan:

89bUkWF0umc

Great Vid! Ang Iloilo Tribes lang siguro ang naga-dry run for the Aliwan. determined guid nga mag da-og bah.

Chy, hindi ka mag lakat sa Manila for the ALiwan? sin-o na lang ang maga video sang event? wish there can be someone to do it, and post it on youtube.

We are still preparing a website for our group, although some sites featured us. Our participatory GIS work can be glimpsed at http://www.iapad.org/applications/protected_areas/nwpipa.htm

as we are celebrating Erath Day today, may I invite you to our docu presentation: Earth Statements:

Part 1, on the biodiversity situation of Panay:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eR5JuPUdnrM

Part 2, indigenous people and initiative on Maasin Watershed
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7oyA5s8ULg

Part 3, Iloilo City wastes problem and initiatives
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kJFJoXEu3h4
thanks for sharing them with us, totopurz.

Spu iloilo holds strategic planning in Thailand

Information Communication Technology is the language of the times. The Technology Plan, (ICT: From Promise to Practice) which was launched last November 2007, reflects the University’s commitment to transformative learning by bridging pedagogy with technology.

...
Implementing this strategic plan is like embracing the University culture: it entails a sense of ownership from all of its stakeholders. This is most essential as the University prepares for the imminent transfer to its new site in Ticud, La Paz and works on its technology-enriched academic curriculum.

Another university's expansion and an impending transfer to a much bigger site. I congratulate SPU for this move. It would pave biger space for future developments and expansion area for the already very crowded hospital in Gen Luna. St Paul's University Iloilo needs to grow both in structure and their academic programmes. At present, BS Nursing is the forerunner course of the university with a little emphasis with other courses. I hope to see SPU-Iloilo to grow more just like other universities in Iloilo. Now, it will all depends on other exisiting universities to facilitate their expansions and future developments. As far as I know, CPU and IDC are scouting for new places for future expansion. Whilst University of San Agustin is pushing thru the plan of converting the whole Jaro Campus into a Medical Centre and transfer back all primary and secondary programmes in the main campus in Iloilo City. What about the Iloilo Chinese Com? Is the new campus in LaPaz up and running already? More competition for all Iloilo schools in the future.

very good news for Iloilo Gas Industry. The opening of more TOTAL gasoline stations in Iloilo prove of a very good and thriving gasoline industry in the province today. With the entry of five more gasoline stations (from the exisiting ones), few more jobs will be opened to Ilonggos and absolutely a good addition to our growing revenue in the city and province. Also, the entry of these five more new stations in our province is already a good proof the Iloilo's increasing consumption of gas which remains very high maybe due to a huge increase of number of private vehicles added in our streets every year. Kudos !
Good development, indeed. Actually, my cousin says, there's too many new gasoline stations all over Iloilo now. Sa San Miguel pa lang daw, there's already 3 or 4 exisiting gasoline stations.

With the advent of movement of businesses outwardly (from Iloilo City), when can we see ATMs and national banks relocating from city centre. How I wish ALEOSAN will have at least 2 to 3 ATM centers. Here abroad, even in a very remotest area, banks and ATM machines can be found. Very easy accessibility indeed.

the family seemed very untouchable. :) and very influential, daks. Mabudlayan siguro ang gusto magwangal sa ila. Some of the children used to be my classmates back in CPU High School kay ara man ina sila dira tanan naga-eleskuwela. Siguro, baskog ka na guid politically, etc kung mapasunod mo ang pamilya nga ini. lol.
No comment whatsoever. All I want is the relocation of squatters in the fort area somwhere else outside the city of Iloilo.

^^ The challenges for the future looks really promising. More for MIGEDC!
Soul, can you re-post them in our MIGEDC thread? Thanks.
Indeed, it's a big challenge for the entire MIG. What I am thinking right now, is that MIGEDC will build an iconic hall or centre in any member towns (Pavia or Sta Barbara) as their headquarters coupled with conference hall or convention centers, and their economic research arm. There's still more things that needs to be developed in the council. I hope they'll start acting as one.

Treñas orders CENRO to formulate air quality management plan
By Maricar M. Calubiran

City Mayor Jerry Treñas has ordered the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) to conceptualize an Air Quality Management plan to lessen the health impact of air pollution among the Ilonggos.

Treñas made such order after he was briefed by CENRO chief Noel Hechanova on the importance of the so-called Air Quality Management (AQM) plan. Other than CENRO, the help of the Environmental Management Bureau should also be tapped in formulating the AQM.

The conceptualization and implementation of an air quality management plan will address the air pollution in every city. There is a high risk of catching respiratory and cardio-vascular diseases because of air pollutants.

Hechanova was sent by Treñas last month in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia to attend the professional program on urban air quality management. He was allowed by the mayor to learn and know the importance of having an air quality management plan as well as its health impact brought about by air pollution.

The chief executive allowed Hechanova to join the international seminar as he deemed it necessary for the development of the city. The environmental hazards should not be rejected over the development brought about in the city.

The same conference was organized by the Canadian Institute of Development Authority together with the Asian Institute of Technology of Bangkok, Thailand and the Malaysia University and Science and Technology.

In the said seminar, the participants were briefed on the necessity of developing an integrated air quality plan for their own city and the importance of monitoring ambient air quality.

source: The News Today ILOILO (http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/04/23/trenas.orders.cenro.to.formulate.air.quality.management.plan.html)

Repost ko lang ang DREAM ni SMAWISEGAMGEE :D

Base Map Courtesy of Green Forum-Western Visayas c/o totopurz

http://img170.imageshack.us/img170/6629/iloilomasterplan2re3.jpg

Basic Infrastructure Development

For the City of Iloilo to be competitive in the next 15 years, it is imperative that its basic infrastructure be immensely developed to meet future demands for transportation facilities, industrial and commercial area expansions, and the development of a parks system.
Major projects such as the new international-standard airport, the proposed floodway and the proposed circumferential road should be complemented by other vital infrastructures to be of optimum use to the city and to its metropolitan area.

Essential to this goal are the following key projects:

I. Improvement of Existing Arteries
1. B. Aquino Ave. (Iloilo-Jaro West Diversion Road) – expand to at least four (4) traffic lanes with 6-meter curbed divider and paved full shoulders from Ungka to B. Aquino Bridge.
2. MacArthur Drive (Iloilo North Road) – expand to four (4) traffic lanes with curbed sidewalks from Buntatala to Montinola Bridge.
3. Narciso Monfort Blvd. (Iloilo-Dumangas Coastal Road) – expand to four (4) traffic lanes with 6-meter open divider and full compacted shoulders.
4. San Juan Boulevard (Villa Beach Road) – expand to two (2) traffic lanes with 4-meter landscaped divider and paved full shoulders.
5. Osmena-Avancena Streets (Iloilo South Road) – expand to four (4) traffic lanes with curbed sidewalks from Mohon to Molo Plaza.
6. Q. Abeto-Guzman-Jesena Streets (San Miguel Road) – expand to four (4) traffic lanes with curbed sidewalks from Jibao-an to Airport Road.
7. All other arteries – expand to four (4) traffic lanes with curbed sidewalks.

II. Construction of New Arteries
1. Iloilo City Circumferential Road – shall have at least four (4) traffic lanes with 6-meter curbed divider and paved full shoulders from Arevalo Proper to Balabago, Jaro and to be extended to Ingore, La Paz.
2. Iloilo River North Bank Road – shall have four (4) traffic lanes with 6-meter open divider and full compacted shoulders from Oton to Nabitasan and shall connect with Narciso Monfort Blvd. by means of an elevated (viaduct) portion over the La Paz area.
3. New CBD Road Network – shall be designed in coordination with winning bidder of old airport property.
4. South Reclamation Project Road Network – shall be designed for future seafront business center development/park system.
5. North Reclamation Project Road Network – shall be designed for future industrial area.
6. Port Expansion Projects Road Network – shall connect with the North Reclamation Project road network and with the South Reclamation Project road network by means of a new bridge across the Iloilo River thru Zamora St.
7. Iloilo-Guimaras Bridge and Access Road – shall be a four-lane cable-stayed bridge with a four-lane access road with 6-meter curbed divider and paved full shoulders.

III. New Iloilo CBD
1. New Iloilo Central Business District – shall be designed as a high-density commercial-residential area with ample open spaces.

IV. South Reclamation Project
1. Seafront Business Center Development – medium-density commercial area to complement with downtown business district.
2. Seafront Park System – weekend attraction area with seafront walk, jogging paths, bike lanes, picnic grounds, children’s play grounds, soccer field, amphitheater, gardens and food lanes.

V. North Reclamation Project
1. Iloilo Export Processing Zone – dedicated area for future light industrial complex.

VI. Port Expansion Projects
1. Iloilo Fishing Port Complex – improvement of docking areas and storage facilities.
2. New Iloilo Fast Ferry Terminal – new terminal and berthing area for fast ferries at the Fort San Pedro area.
3. Port of Iloilo Passenger Terminal – improvement of existing terminal and expansion of berthing areas.
4. Iloilo River Wharf – improvement of docking areas and storage facilities.
5. Iloilo Commercial Port – expansion of storage facilities and container yards and new berthing areas for ocean-going container vessels.

With these developments in place, Iloilo’s future will be secure in the next generations to come; at its own pace, in its own time…

id like to add nga daw nami nga pwesto para sa AMUSEMENT PARK ang "ilong peninsula" or the "uy gonco flourmill peninsula"
if not, along the riverside portion sang NABITASAN complex ang nami nga lugar

chy> ti final answer mo sa aliwan?? NO na gid ya?
kanugon kay 3 straight dayswala ko duty. Sat-Mon. balik ko work tuesday noon pa.

neways excited na ko.. i have to finish all work-related blah blahs before satruday. para free ako

Lew i cant join sa lunch. sa balay na lng ko manyaga. I need to maximize my sleep kay ma gwa ko from work sat7AM. so tulog pa ko b4 aliwan sa hapon

just text me 0918 493 4051 lunch time. timplrano pa ko maabot. and as usual didto man ko gyapon sa assembly area. see ya!!!

im crossing my fingers that this years champion is from region 6.

ang performance sang cebu tis year is almost the same as last year. alsmost the same costume and choreography recycled. its just that, well executed lng ang ila choreo. good luck sa tanan...

Gonzalez to give money for straight TU votes


04/23/2007 | 04:47 PM

Justice Secretary Raul Gonzalez would give away money to villages in Iloilo City if Team Unity (TU) secures a landslide victory in these areas, radio dzBB reported on Monday.

Quoting Gonzalez, dzBB said the secretary would give P 10,000 each to the city’s 18 villages coursed through their captains if people in these areas would vote straight for TU senatorial bets in the May 14 midterm elections. Iloilo City is Gonzalez's place of origin.

The report said the money would come from Gonzalez’s pocket. DzBB said the secretary will also personally shoulder the expenses for a scheduled grand rally in Iloilo of the senatorial candidates of the administration coalition.

Dzbb said Gonzalez made the announcement at about 3:30 p.m., Monday, during his "Hustisya para sa Lahat" program aired over radio station dwIZ.

Source: GMANews.TV
^^ Is he going lunatic? (IMO, he is. :lol:) He's going lose on his morals! My goodness, its like vote buying! :nuts: :weird: :bash: :bleep: :bleep: And guess what, his program: "Hustisya Para sa Lahat" seems to be inappropriate. :bleep:

Ratsada Panata GMA TV-6
N4FieEey698

Iloilo General Luna Street Flyover
KkxnLT3LhMs
*I think this was shot on a Sunday since the traffic was light and the buses are in the area (which are not allowed during weekdays and Sat).

^^ Is he going lunatic? (IMO, he is. :lol:) He's going lose on his morals! My goodness, its like vote buying! :nuts: :weird: :bash: :bleep: :bleep: And guess what, his program: "Hustisya Para sa Lahat" seems to be inappropriate. :bleep:

How do you suppose he is able to keep the post of DOJ secretary despite being grossly unfit for the job? It's not the first time.:|

How do you suppose he is able to keep the post of DOJ secretary despite being grossly unfit for the job? It's not the first time.:|

I don't know. Kapila na gani sya i-debar sang iya nga kapwa-abogado tungod sa iya nga pamensaron nga ay ambot! He is a fine classic example of a very influential politico in Iloilo. He is intelligent :weird: and he is straightforward :bash: but he is, well.....What the heck can I say to this guy. The people in the province (outside Iloilo City) don't like him because of his attitude.

What's new anyway from him, basi dugay-dugay magsabunotan na sanda ninday Tita Cory ni! He has a power of a politician and a landlord but he has an attitude of libakera-palenkera. :nuts:

Sorry if I'm being frank about him. I'm just so irritated in his image in media. Kon ako si Gloria, basi katilaw na sya sang tapungol sa akon kag tampa guid! Taklesa ka Raul!!! hahahaha!!!! :hilarious:

nag andar na naman si UNjustice Secretary gonzalez. He is a disgrace to the ilonggo people. Ka basa baba! kag ka chismoso.

neways i just finished making new header images for my blog. 6 lahat yun featuring:

1 mayon volcano
2. Wakeboarding at CWC
3. penafrancia stained glass
4. Bamboo bench @ CWC
5. Paraw Regatta @ iloilo
6. Museo Iloilo

for now ito lang muna pina pa revolve ko naimages. but headers will return to normal rotation by next week.

How do you suppose he is able to keep the post of DOJ secretary despite being grossly unfit for the job? It's not the first time.:|

I don't know. Kapila na gani sya i-debar sang iya nga kapwa-abogado tungod sa iya nga pamensaron nga ay ambot! He is a fine classic example of a very influential politico in Iloilo. He is intelligent :weird: and he is straightforward :bash: but he is, well.....What the heck can I say to this guy. The people in the province (outside Iloilo City) don't like him because of his attitude.

What's new anyway from him, basi dugay-dugay magsabunotan na sanda ninday Tita Cory ni! He has a power of a politician and a landlord but he has an attitude of libakera-palenkera. :nuts:

Sorry if I'm being frank about him. I'm just so irritated in his image in media. Kon ako si Gloria, basi katilaw na sya sang tapungol sa akon kag tampa guid! Taklesa ka Raul!!! hahahaha!!!! :hilarious:

This is the clue to the answer...
Gonzalez to give money for straight TU votes


04/23/2007 | 04:47 PM

Justice Secretary Raul Gonzalez would give away money to villages in Iloilo City if Team Unity (TU) secures a landslide victory in these areas, radio dzBB reported on Monday.

Quoting Gonzalez, dzBB said the secretary would give P 10,000 each to the city’s 18 villages coursed through their captains if people in these areas would vote straight for TU senatorial bets in the May 14 midterm elections. Iloilo City is Gonzalez's place of origin.

The report said the money would come from Gonzalez’s pocket. DzBB said the secretary will also personally shoulder the expenses for a scheduled grand rally in Iloilo of the senatorial candidates of the administration coalition.

Dzbb said Gonzalez made the announcement at about 3:30 p.m., Monday, during his "Hustisya para sa Lahat" program aired over radio station dwIZ.

Source: GMANews.TVIn my humble opinion and analysis of unconfirmed information:
PGMA owes him too much... He was instrumental for her large margin in Iloilo last elections (same way why so many generals are in top government positions). I even suspect Treñas became president of the League of Cities for a similar reason. I heard both these guys gave out P150 and P100 respectively to voters last elections. You just need to go to your Brgy. Captain to claim it. I didn't claim mine so the punong barangay had more for himself. This old man has a very tight hold on Brgy. Captains.


Sigh.. just check these amusing articles of Panay News:
>VENGEFUL ACT (http://www.panaynews.com.ph/main%20news.htm)
>Lapsus Calami (http://www.panaynews.com.ph/lapsus.htm)

guys heres our panay news advert.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cOBPvg9fyP4
<object width="425" height="350"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/cOBPvg9fyP4"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/cOBPvg9fyP4" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="350"></embed></object>
medyo delayed ang sound sa pag upload.
you can check it sa multiply site namon mayadstudios.multiply.com (http://mayadstudios.multiply.com)
enjoy!

POWER INTERRUPTIONS
Angry Ilonggos storm radio, TV stations

By DAVID ISRAEL SINAY

ILOILO City – Residents of the metropolis turn to local radio and television networks to lodge their complaints and inquiries during power interruptions, instead of addressing this to the Panay Electric Company (Peco).

....

She said services were hampered especially those of businesses dependent on power, particularly banks’ online transactions. Also, losses were incurred in sales opportunities because they could not process credit card transactions due to the absence of online connections, Lara added.

The Philippine Cities Competitiveness Ranking Project 2005, a study conducted by Asian Institute of Management Policy Center, revealed that expensive electric power is one of the factors perceived to hinder Iloilo’ competitiveness.

The study revealed that the reliability of electric power is one of the weakest indicators (in this city), aside from cost of power for industrial use, traffic management, road congestion, maintenance of road networks and vehicle density, among others.

Source: http://www.panaynews.com.ph/news2.htm

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

Another news on Electricity... can we do online appeal on this? We need to do something about this!

This is the clue to the answer...
In my humble opinion and analysis of unconfirmed information:
PGMA owes him too much... He was instrumental for her large margin in Iloilo last elections (same way why so many generals are in top government positions). I even suspect Treñas became president of the League of Cities for a similar reason. I heard both these guys gave out P150 and P100 respectively to voters last elections. You just need to go to your Brgy. Captain to claim it. I didn't claim mine so the punong barangay had more for himself. This old man has a very tight hold on Brgy. Captains.


Sigh.. just check these amusing articles of Panay News:
>VENGEFUL ACT (http://www.panaynews.com.ph/main%20news.htm)
>Lapsus Calami (http://www.panaynews.com.ph/lapsus.htm)

This is the very essence of Philippine politics. Padrino system, etc. I even ask whether our democracy is for real since we vote the same politicos or their alipores. I felt ashamed if this would happen but anyway, its not only happening in Iloilo alone. Its just that the bad mouth of that old guy in the InJustice Department has blantantly expressed in the media about his vote buying.

In the media yesterday:

Sec.Gonzales: "It's not vote buying, hindi naman ako tatakbo eh!" :nuts:
he added "Sariling pera ang gagamitin ko, mayaman naman ako ha" ...shessh, ara naman da ang tikalon. :ohno:

Guess what did the COMELEC officials said: "No Comment, Baka kasi may mababangga kami...". :bash: Indeed, Sec.Gonzales is powerful, so powerful that power himself is driving him nuts and maybe sometime in the future, be like Gollum.

In Inquirer: "Its Price says Gonzales, Its Vote-Buying says Comelec exec."

Mister Gonzales just displayed in the media the corrupt culture of vote-buying in our politics and the society in our country. This is one of the most bitter realities that we have not only in Iloilo but the rest of the country as well. :ohno:

Anyway, as according to a source, 90% of the barangay captains in Iloilo City is under his "royal patronage" and I don't think this was the first time it happened, although he just said that thru national media. Nothing new right?

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h291/berniemacksouthcentral/pic_pag00-1.jpgSource: Inquirer.net

POWER INTERRUPTIONS
Angry Ilonggos storm radio, TV stations

By DAVID ISRAEL SINAY

ILOILO City – Residents of the metropolis turn to local radio and television networks to lodge their complaints and inquiries during power interruptions, instead of addressing this to the Panay Electric Company (Peco).

....

She said services were hampered especially those of businesses dependent on power, particularly banks’ online transactions. Also, losses were incurred in sales opportunities because they could not process credit card transactions due to the absence of online connections, Lara added.

The Philippine Cities Competitiveness Ranking Project 2005, a study conducted by Asian Institute of Management Policy Center, revealed that expensive electric power is one of the factors perceived to hinder Iloilo’ competitiveness.

The study revealed that the reliability of electric power is one of the weakest indicators (in this city), aside from cost of power for industrial use, traffic management, road congestion, maintenance of road networks and vehicle density, among others.

Source: http://www.panaynews.com.ph/news2.htm

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

Another news on Electricity... can we do online appeal on this? We need to do something about this!

Bombard PECO with more of their rotten deeds so that they could realize what have they done to make Ilonggos suffer. I wish the InJustice Secretary used his straightforwardness with the PECO officials instead rather paying bribe for barangay officials.




[B][SIZE=5]City Hall sees stable power in Peco, Napocor agreement

Jeehan V. Fernandez
2007-04-25




ILOILO City Mayor Jerry Treñas yesterday said the metropolis’ sole power supplier Panay Electric Co. (Peco) has signed an agreement with National Power Corp. (NPC) to augment the former’s electricity source.

Treñas said Department of Energy (DOE) secretary Raphael Lotilla him of the Peco-NPC agreement through a text message.

“I texted Secretary Lotilla as early as 5am about the recent brownout the city experienced. He is always aware of the power problem here,” Treñas told reporters.

The mayor was referring to the 15-hour blackout that hit the city weeks ago due to a routine maintenance of Peco’s lone power provider, Panay Power Corp. (PPC) which operates a 72-MW diesel-fired power plant at Brgy. Ingore, LaPaz.

The city, which has a peak demand of 81-MW, experiences frequent outages because PPC has no more power reserve.

Treñas hopes the Peco-NPC interconnection will address the unstable power in the city.

The mayor said consumers are willing to pay for costly electricity provided it is uninterrupted.

“The whole community is affected. Even if electricity is expensive, we have to pay for it. But if it is interrupted, we have to demand for it,” Treñas pointed out.

He said the City Hall is the biggest power consumer with electricity bills amounting to P7million monthly.

Treñas added that when the new City Hall is completed, they will transfer the electrical connection to NPC which offers cheaper and more reliable power.

Meanwhile, an opposition councilorable is wondering why Peco has to buy and pass on to consumers expensive electricity when NPC can provide power at a lower cost.

Citing his Peco experience, Jose Allen Aquino highlighted his plans on how to “break-away” from city’s power problems.

Aquino, who worked for Peco for 23 years, said he “resigned because I’m no longer happy with my job.”

Aspiring for a seat at the City Council, Aquino wants solutions for “higher electric bills, unsatisfactory treatment when complaining, doubts on readings of electric meters and accuracy of meter calibration.”

“What’s the use of getting power of higher rate when Peco can source out affordable power from NPC like what Iloilo towns are doing?” Aquino said, adding that the city’s electric rate is one of the highest in the Philippines.

Aquino said they have been calling for the conversion of Peco into an electric cooperative following the order of Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) for Peco to refund close to P3-billion in “overcharges” to its consumers.

The ERC ordered Peco to reimburse its more than 40,000 consumers after discovering that distribution firm “overpriced” its Power Cost Charge (PCC) from February 1996 to July 2005.

The ERC found out that the company “overcharged” consumers because “Peco used Panay Power Corporation’s PCC computation instead of the NPC’s effective rate which is inconsistent with its Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) approved by then Energy Regulatory Board (now ERC), resulting in an over-recovery amounting to P2,438,498,053.”

Likewise, ERC discovered that “Peco converted its pilferage recoveries amounting to P3,139,534 into kWh sales and deducted the same from kWh purchased and generated for the previous month instead of deducting said recoveries from the power cost.”

ERC noted that Peco’s “overcharging” amounted to P834,278 which covered 33 months of February 1996-October 1998 and P2,887,386,470 for the period of 81 months from November 1998-July 2005.

However, Peco has been waging a legal battle to free from its refund obligations against its main oppositor Freedom from Debt Coalition (FDC-Iloilo) chair Atty. Romeo Gerochi.

The FDC has been calling for a “Peco take-over” by converting the power firm into a cooperative to be run by consumers themselves and offer affordable electricity.
Source: The Guardian Iloilo


Kapoy na maginistorya sang sini. :ohno:

^^
Sec. siRAULo Gonzalez, talaga, why are Ilonggo Politicos in the National scene acting like they are crazy?!!! :bash:

POWER INTERRUPTIONS
Angry Ilonggos storm radio, TV stations

By DAVID ISRAEL SINAY

ILOILO City – Residents of the metropolis turn to local radio and television networks to lodge their complaints and inquiries during power interruptions, instead of addressing this to the Panay Electric Company (Peco).

....

She said services were hampered especially those of businesses dependent on power, particularly banks’ online transactions. Also, losses were incurred in sales opportunities because they could not process credit card transactions due to the absence of online connections, Lara added.

The Philippine Cities Competitiveness Ranking Project 2005, a study conducted by Asian Institute of Management Policy Center, revealed that expensive electric power is one of the factors perceived to hinder Iloilo’ competitiveness.

The study revealed that the reliability of electric power is one of the weakest indicators (in this city), aside from cost of power for industrial use, traffic management, road congestion, maintenance of road networks and vehicle density, among others.

Source: http://www.panaynews.com.ph/news2.htm

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

Another news on Electricity... can we do online appeal on this? We need to do something about this!

^^ They should storm the PECO office/property too!, Grrrrr :bash:

hay.. ambot na lng ya. that Injustice secretary talaga. there are time nga nagaka huya na ako mag hambal nga ilonggo ako because of his actions. kahuluya gid ya,

when i was in naga last week, right in front of the tomb of raul roco, i was asked kung sino mag prominent ilonggo who are in the govt service. sus. i was caught off guard, daw mahuya ako mag hambal sang ngalan ni gonzales.

tsk tsk take him down!!!

hay.. ambot na lng ya. that Injustice secretary talaga. there are time nga nagaka huya na ako mag hambal nga ilonggo ako because of his actions. kahuluya gid ya,

when i was in naga last week, right in front of the tomb of raul roco, i was asked kung sino mag prominent ilonggo who are in the govt service. sus. i was caught off guard, daw mahuya ako mag hambal sang ngalan ni gonzales.

tsk tsk take him down!!!

He's just an old, rich and influential man longing for attention and experiencing second childhood. :lol: :lol: :hilarious:

Malacañang told him to "shut up" already. Even Gloria has been irked by his tactlesness.:nuts:

^^ He's just an old, rich and influential man



in short DOM


ahahahahahhaha

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/221/472077357_9aef380f41_o.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/228/472069466_c3983d8496_o.jpg

:wave:

if not for the spire of molo church it would have taken morer minutes for me to guess from which angle the topmost pic was taken

the second one was much easier thanks to medicus :D

^^yeah, me too, that's the carpenter bridge and on the right side of the bridge is the Saviour Int'l Hospital, the huge houses on the right is Southville i guess...

Yep, that's Southville. The controversial filling beside Carpenter's Bridge is also visible.

:wave:

so dira gali ang southville :D
bag o ko lang nabal an ba.

airplane shot ini guro with the plane landing/taking off from/towards guimaras

* hopefully they have the budget to make a bigger and wider bridge.

‘Gag me, no Iloilo rally for TEAM Unity,’ Gonzalez warns :bash:

By Tetch Torres
INQUIRER.net

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakin...ticle_id=62442 (http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakin...ticle_id=62442)
MANILA, Philippines -- Justice Secretary Raul Gonzalez on Wednesday warned that he would cancel the TEAM (Together Everyone Achieves More) Unity rally in Iloilo City if Malacañang issues a “gag order” against him.

"If they will issue a gag order, I will cancel the grand rally. I will not host the rally anymore," Gonzalez said.
The justice chief said since he is financing the May 10 campaign rally, he is ready to scrap it.

Gonzalez has been receiving flak after announcing a P10,000 reward to Iloilo barangay (village) chairmen who deliver 12-0 TEAM Unity sweeps in their communities.

He also came under fire for calling slain US Peace Corp volunteer Julia Campbell “careless” and “a little bit irresponsible” for hiking alone in Banaue on the day she disappeared.

Campbell went missing on Easter Sunday and was found 10 days later buried in a shallow grave in Batad village, Banaue. Authorities say she had been bludgeoned to death and are now working to arrest the suspect.

Gonzalez stood by what he said of Campbell, maintaining his statement was merely his “analysis” of what happened.

^^ So? Mas daku man gasto kag mas manggaranon man ang Administrasyon subong sa spending haw.

Daw mahuya guid ko kon amo ni ang guina-asta sa isa ka Ilonggo. Kahuluya guid!

Please guys, indi na ta mag-inistorya sini kay maguba lang guid ang adlaw nyo. Guinguba na nya gani ang adlaw ko sa paglantaw sang balita!!!

Amo na ya ang reyalidad nga me yara ta sa Pilipinas. :(
Pasensya na guid kon amo na ko ya subong mga kasimanwa.

Kadamu sang negative news subong, daw ka-overwhelming guid.

^^ isa lang o duha mahambal ko tani mapatay na na ang tigulang nga ina:bash: oi basi butohon nyo da ang bata nya ha, basi magdugay mag sunod man ina sa amay nya, pwera gid kamo...like father like son ayhan...indi nyo na pag dugangan mga gunggong nga ilonggo nga politiko dira.

^^ Kailan ang opening ng bagong Ilo-ilo airport?

save the best for last gid ang team unity ba, siguro gin toun nila ang grand rally nila maglapit nalang ang election day para at least indi malimtan ka mga ilonggo ila na candidates...kita abi ky dali makalimot...and syempre added attraction ang opening ka new iloilo airport of international standards...yehey!!!

baw kadi---ta nga tigulang. ka basa gid sang baba! pirdi pa ang mga naga kutso kutso sa tiendahan kung kaagahun.

saw him in Tv tonite. dyutayan ko lng nahaboy sang ulunan ang tv ko. hay ah.. kahuluya gd ya.

^^ So? Mas daku man gasto kag mas manggaranon man ang Administrasyon subong sa spending haw.

Daw mahuya guid ko kon amo ni ang guina-asta sa isa ka Ilonggo. Kahuluya guid!

Please guys, indi na ta mag-inistorya sini kay maguba lang guid ang adlaw nyo. Guinguba na nya gani ang adlaw ko sa paglantaw sang balita!!!

Amo na ya ang reyalidad nga me yara ta sa Pilipinas. :(
Pasensya na guid kon amo na ko ya subong mga kasimanwa.

Kadamu sang negative news subong, daw ka-overwhelming guid.

why are ilonggo politicians so controversial?

why are ilonggo politicians so controversial?

If you saw him on TV last night, he showed his arrogrance and as if he is the law himself.

He said: "tigilan ako ng Malacanyang, walang rally ng Team Unity doon. Hindi magkakaroon ng rally kung walang permiso sa akin..."

Hay life.... This things happen once in 3 years naman. :D

City Hall sees stable power in Peco, Napocor agreement

Jeehan V. Fernandez
2007-04-25




ILOILO City Mayor Jerry Treñas yesterday said the metropolis’ sole power supplier Panay Electric Co. (Peco) has signed an agreement with National Power Corp. (NPC) to augment the former’s electricity source.

Treñas said Department of Energy (DOE) secretary Raphael Lotilla him of the Peco-NPC agreement through a text message.

“I texted Secretary Lotilla as early as 5am about the recent brownout the city experienced. He is always aware of the power problem here,” Treñas told reporters.

The mayor was referring to the 15-hour blackout that hit the city weeks ago due to a routine maintenance of Peco’s lone power provider, Panay Power Corp. (PPC) which operates a 72-MW diesel-fired power plant at Brgy. Ingore, LaPaz.

The city, which has a peak demand of 81-MW, experiences frequent outages because PPC has no more power reserve.

Treñas hopes the Peco-NPC interconnection will address the unstable power in the city.

The mayor said consumers are willing to pay for costly electricity provided it is uninterrupted.

“The whole community is affected. Even if electricity is expensive, we have to pay for it. But if it is interrupted, we have to demand for it,” Treñas pointed out.

He said the City Hall is the biggest power consumer with electricity bills amounting to P7million monthly.

Treñas added that when the new City Hall is completed, they will transfer the electrical connection to NPC which offers cheaper and more reliable power.

Meanwhile, an opposition councilorable is wondering why Peco has to buy and pass on to consumers expensive electricity when NPC can provide power at a lower cost.

Citing his Peco experience, Jose Allen Aquino highlighted his plans on how to “break-away” from city’s power problems.

Aquino, who worked for Peco for 23 years, said he “resigned because I’m no longer happy with my job.”

Aspiring for a seat at the City Council, Aquino wants solutions for “higher electric bills, unsatisfactory treatment when complaining, doubts on readings of electric meters and accuracy of meter calibration.”

“What’s the use of getting power of higher rate when Peco can source out affordable power from NPC like what Iloilo towns are doing?” Aquino said, adding that the city’s electric rate is one of the highest in the Philippines.

Aquino said they have been calling for the conversion of Peco into an electric cooperative following the order of Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) for Peco to refund close to P3-billion in “overcharges” to its consumers.

The ERC ordered Peco to reimburse its more than 40,000 consumers after discovering that distribution firm “overpriced” its Power Cost Charge (PCC) from February 1996 to July 2005.

The ERC found out that the company “overcharged” consumers because “Peco used Panay Power Corporation’s PCC computation instead of the NPC’s effective rate which is inconsistent with its Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) approved by then Energy Regulatory Board (now ERC), resulting in an over-recovery amounting to P2,438,498,053.”

Likewise, ERC discovered that “Peco converted its pilferage recoveries amounting to P3,139,534 into kWh sales and deducted the same from kWh purchased and generated for the previous month instead of deducting said recoveries from the power cost.”

ERC noted that Peco’s “overcharging” amounted to P834,278 which covered 33 months of February 1996-October 1998 and P2,887,386,470 for the period of 81 months from November 1998-July 2005.

However, Peco has been waging a legal battle to free from its refund obligations against its main oppositor Freedom from Debt Coalition (FDC-Iloilo) chair Atty. Romeo Gerochi.

The FDC has been calling for a “Peco take-over” by converting the power firm into a cooperative to be run by consumers themselves and offer affordable electricity.
Source: The Guardian Iloilo
That's good because the City Hall will be able to save a lot of Money from the transfer and the saved money could be used in financing projects in the city. I just wish that this won't be the trend for the years ahead.

It's good now because there is a deficit in available power, but what if other huge consumers of energy connect to NAPOCOR or medium-sized establishments band together and connect to NAPOCOR? Most probably, there will be an over production of energy and the households of Iloilo City will be the ones to shoulder the excess power.

I hope City Hall is looking for long-term solutions to the problem and not doesn't just save itself from high power prices but also liberate US from the high-prices of power :D

If you saw him on TV last night, he showed his arrogrance and as if he is the law himself.

He said: "tigilan ako ng Malacanyang, walang rally ng Team Unity doon. Hindi magkakaroon ng rally kung walang permiso sa akin..."

Hay life.... This things happen once in 3 years naman. :D

i missed tv patrol yesterday so i did not see that. it seems that he is getting out of control and he is acting like he owns the place. is he out of his mind? i saw him make that comment regarding campbell and that was so insensitive of him to make such comments.

^^ he acrsd as if he IS the law. Unjustice secretary talaga.

nways. Ilonggos, the mayor is asking for your prayers...


Ilonggos urged to pray for Dinagyang contingents to Aliwan Fiesta
By Maricar M. Calubiran

In this political season where people differ in views, preferences and opinions, Mayor Jerry Treñas is asking all Ilonggos to unite and pray for the success of Tribu Ilonganon and Tribu Kahilwayan as they compete in this year's Aliwan fiesta in Manila.


Treñas said Ilonggos should pray for the success of the two tribes as they compete with 21 other festivals in the country this coming Saturday, April 28. Tribu Ilonganon and Tribu Kahilwayan are Iloilo's official representatives in the Aliwan fiesta being the winners in the 2007 Dinagyang festival. The two tribes will compete in the cultural dance competition.

The city government could not extend financial assistance to the two tribes because of the banning in relation to the election period. As such, the chief executive is merely asking all Ilonggos pray for the success of Iloilo's contingents.

Treñas said, should the two tribes turn out champions, it would still be Iloilo's pride.

The two tribes does not only aspire for the cash prize but for the honor that they will bring to the Ilonggo people. Participants also prepared themselves for the competition by having a constant practice.

The 1st prize winner for cultural dance competition will receive a cash prize of P1,000,000. and P500,000 for the second prize. The 3rd prize winner will receive a cash prize of P250,000. The 4th to 10th prize winners will receive P50,000 each.

Last year, the Sinulog festival of Cebu emerged as winners. This paved way for the choreographers of the two competing tribes to come up with a better presentation. Spectators of the Aliwan fiesta are waiting for a lively and better performance from the Dinagyang contingents.

http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/04/23/ilonggos.urged.to.pray.for.dinagyang.contingents.to.aliwan.fiesta.html

this is going to be this saturday already. And I will be going to there.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v22/whyte/ILOILO/Pic697.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v22/whyte/ILOILO/Pic698.jpg

JARO BELFRY "REPLICA"

"stolen shot" from the office of one of our board of directors.
cguro parang giveaway sang iloilo corporate center before since it has that label at the bottom

May 10, 2007

The Political opening of the new Iloilo Airport :lol:

Airport sale puts Iloilo in world’s real estate map

Jeehan V. Fernandez
2007-04-26



A TOP executive of a real estate marketing network said the sale of the 54-hectare old Iloilo airport property in Mandurriao district has put the city and province in the global map of the booming real estate industry.

Jed L. Villanueva, senior vice-president of Fil-Estate Network, Inc. said Iloilo is teeming with potentials in the field of real estate.

Fil-Estate, which is composed of top five marketing companies, is working on the soon-to-open Centro Verde, a 103-hectare residential site in Pavia town, touted to be the biggest in Iloilo.

“Iloilo’s real estate market is very robust. Even Manila-based big players come to Iloilo as they already saw the local potentials 10 years back. Five of the top big players in the industry bidded for old Iloilo airport,” Villanueva said.

“The airport sale will increase the value of property not only in the immediate area in Mandurriao but Iloilo as a whole. It also puts Iloilo in the ‘radar screen’ of real estate players in the Philippines and rest of the world,” Villanueva pointed out.

Assessments of real estate broker CB Richard Ellis and lot pricing at Mandurriao area showed that the old airport could fetch around P500million to P2billion in revenues.

Five of country’s giant estate developers including Ayala Land Inc.; SM Prime Holdings, Inc.; Robinson’s Land; Empire East Holdings, Inc.; and Rockwell Land Corp. were pre-qualified to join the May 9 bidding.

Ayala Land is touted as the country’s top real estate firm; SM Prime, the largest mall developer; Robinson’s Land is also focused in operations of chain of shopping malls; Empire East is engaged in developing and marketing housing projects including condominiums and house-and-lot packages while Rockwell operates a mixed-used center in Makati.

Villanueva likewise stressed that the airport site development will “add up to the positive factors of attracting investors and good for Iloilo’s economy.”

He also attributed the rising demand in the real estate market, especially for residential lots, to the big number of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who set aside money to buy house and lot for their families here.

“The OFWs have a lot of money. For instance, the dormant or time deposit accounts in Iloilo banks summed up to about P32billion.These funds are just waiting for the right projects to be spent, particularly on housing,” Villanueva said.

He also highlighted the mushrooming urban communities relative to the peace and order situation in the locality.

-The Guardian Iloilo

^^ Hay naku, nainit na guid ko sa kakahulat, sa May 10 pa gali mag-abri. Ay abaw! :cry:

Iloilo City wala makabenepisyo sa Power Barge
04/24/2007 | 07:01 PM

Madugang kuntani sa power supply sang ciudad sang Iloilo ang pinakamayor nga rason kun ngaa ginpasaylo diri ang Power Barge 101.

Ginhangyo pa ini sang alkalde sang ciudad sa National Power Corp (NPC), pero sumugod nga nag-operate ini Marso 21, wala pa gid nakabenipisyo ang ciudad sa PB 101.

Swerte ang probinsya sang Iloilo nga amo ang nagakuha sang suplay sa Cebu-Negros-Panay grid tungod sa CNP grid nagahatag sang enerhiya ang power barge bilang kabahin sang NPC.

Ten megawatts umpisa las dyes sang aga ang gina-generate nga kuryente sang PB 101 kag ginahatag sa CNP grid.

Dugang naman nga five megawatts kun hapon asta las dyes sang gab-i ang ila ginakabig peak hour.

Pero sa indi madugay mahimo na man kuno nga magrasyahan ang ciudad sang kuryente halin sa NPC ilabi na subong nga ginaplantsa na gid lang ang kontrata sa tunga sang Panay Electric Company kag NPC.

–Ratsada

-edit-

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v22/whyte/ILOILO/Pic697.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v22/whyte/ILOILO/Pic698.jpg

JARO BELFRY "REPLICA"

"stolen shot" from the office of one of our board of directors.
cguro parang giveaway sang iloilo corporate center before since it has that label at the bottom

I've seen this miniature being sold at the former IPA showroom at DTI office before.

i tried to show this thread to some of my ilonggo workmates here in cebu, and surprisingly, mas marami akong alam sa kanila than them, thanks to SSC :lol: i told one na when she gets home, baka sa new airport na mag land yung plane, i described her your squeaky clean and ultra modern terminal and she was very excited, but a bit worried because sta. barbara will be farther from her home than the one in mandurriao, but then i told her that the mandurriao site will undergo bidding and among the bidders are the ayala, and rockwell, guess what, nabawi yung pagka worried niya :lol: :lol: and they cant tell iloilo from the pics that you have here. malaki daw ang pinagbago, some of them kasi are 2 years na di nakakabalik sa iloilo.

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/195/473469627_b75b90fa0f.jpg
Tabagak

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/173/473455440_7538df115d.jpg
Mohon Jeepney Terminal

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/190/473469295_3c85b447dc.jpg
Subdivision somewhere in Arevalo

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/225/473454994_27a3c046c9.jpg
Brgy. Sooc Squatter Relocation Site

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/185/473455652_e93946fb37.jpg
Iloilo River (with all the fish traps...)

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/191/473468755_8d77992087.jpg
The End of the Runway

Iloilo Airport
http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h141/oboi_1/iloiloairportwindow.jpg

http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h141/oboi_1/iloiloairporttarmac.jpg

New Iloilo Airport (my window is full of scratches so it came out blurred)
http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h141/oboi_1/newairportaerial.jpg

More to come...

wow oboi ur in iloilo! nice photos!!!

DISASTER LOOMS
Water shortage scares SP, declares state of imminent calamity
Jeehan V. Fernandez
2007-04-27


THE water shortage suffered by Iloilo City has forced the Sangguniang Panlungsod to declare the city under a state of imminent calamity.

The SP during its regular session Wednesday approved a resolution putting the city on the brink of disaster due to the severe water problem.

“Iloilo City has been and is still suffering from acute water shortage due to the decrease in the Metro Iloilo Water District’s supply from 42,400 cubic meters per day to 22,500 cubic meters per day,” said majority floor leader Kagawad Eduardo Peñaredondo.

Peñaredondo sponsored the resolution on request of Mayor Jerry P. Treñas.

Peñaredondo said the shortage accounts for 47 percent of the MIWD’s regular supply before the summer season hit the country.

“The city residents and concessionaires are complaining about the problem and this can only be properly addressed if cloud seeding operations will be conducted,” Peñaredondo said.

The resolution will be forwarded to the National Disaster Coordinating Council to ask for funds for cloud seeding operations.

Earlier, Mayor Jerry Treñas said Department of Agriculture (DA) undersecretary Jess Paras assured that cloud seeding will be conducted at the Maasin watershed area to hasten rainfall.

The Maasin watershed serves as the main source of potable water being supplied by the MIWD to its franchise areas covering Iloilo City and towns of Maasin, Cabatuan, Sta. Barbara, Oton, San Miguel, and Leganes.

Treñas said the MIWD during its board meeting also considered financing several cloud seeding operations to re-energize its sources.

Meanwhile, MIWD’s Board of Directors recently approved several immediate measures to address the water shoratge.

MIWD interim general manager, Engr. Edwin Reyes said they will soon interconnect the San Miguel, Iloilo water system to the distribution line in San Jose, San Miguel to divert excess water from said town city proper to the Manduriao-Molo area.

The interconnection will cost MIWD about P3 million.

MIWD is also set to drill two additional production wells in Caboloan Norte, Oton, and San Miguel, Iloilo which is near the existing deep well source.

Reyes added that all pumping stations at San Jose, San Miguel and Sta. Monica and Caboloan, Oton will undergo rehabilitation with immediate replacement of electro-mechanical components to harmonize with the entire system, thus, increase production capacity.

Likewise, Reyes stressed they plan to engage in a bulk water supply agreement, either through government funding or private sector investment in anticipation of the increasing water demand requirement of its service areas brought about by fast developments.

The Guardian Iloilo


^^ Later, what we'll be worrying about is excessive water. Ngak! :nuts:

City gov't asked to join Texas event
By Maricar M. Calubiran

An international organization invited the city government to send a delegation to the 36th Texas Folklife Festival in San Antonio, Texas set on June 8-10, 2007.

Jo Ann Andera, CFEE director, in a letter, requested Mayor Jerry Treñas to send a delegation through the Iloilo Dinagyang Foundation Inc. and in partnership with the Edwin Duero Dance Company. Andera's invitation was forwarded by the chief executive to the Sangguniang Panlungsod.

It was not immediately known on who will shoulder the expenses should the city government decides to send a delegation to the said event.

The Texas Folklife Festival is a four-day celebration of music, cultural dance, storytelling and crafts around the world. The celebration has been cultivated by the Institute of Texan Cultures in its appreciation of diverse cultural heritage.

The same festival features ethnic groups from every corner of the state that represent more than 40 countries of the world. The celebration likewise presents various cuisines including the Filipino pancit. The music and folkloric dance of Spain, Ireland and Brazil are also presented which adds color to the festival.

source: The News Today (http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/04/26/city.govt.asked.to.join.texas.event.html)

^^ ^^ Now, this is becoming better and better for Iloilo's Dinagyang festival, the Ilonggos and the City of Iloilo. More and more exposure in international arena. Slowly, we are entering and conquering the world of festivals. Hurrah !!!! :banana: :banana:

Oton Cutflowers Association to hold Garden Show and Plant Sale

The Oton Cutflowers Association (OCA) will hold a garden show and plant sale in connection with the 465th foundation day and Katagman festival this coming April 28 to May 4, 2007.

Mrs. Velma S. Encanto, OCA president said that a variety of cutflowers, ornamental and indigenous plants will be of sale at the garden show.

"We have also invited cutflower growers from Bacolod City; Villa, Arevalo, and other neighboring towns to participate and add diversity for the cutflower enthusiast to choose to during the activity," Mrs. Encanto added.

A plant propagation demonstration will be given by OCA cutflower experts to interested plant hobbyist, while a Buko pie making demonstration will be given by Ms. Julia Ybañez of WVCST to interested participants and OCA members.

Mrs. Encanto further said that contest on native chicken cooking using indigenous plants, floral arrangement, and dish garden contest will be conducted in order to develop creativity and environmental awareness among youths, and rural improvement club members in the municipality.

The prizes for the three contests include P2,000.00 for the first prize, P1,500.00 second prize, and P1,000.00 third prize.

(JEEO/RAFID 6)

source : The News Today (http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/04/26/oton.cutflowers.association.to.hold.garden.show.and.plant.sale.html)

That's good because the City Hall will be able to save a lot of Money from the transfer and the saved money could be used in financing projects in the city. I just wish that this won't be the trend for the years ahead.

It's good now because there is a deficit in available power, but what if other huge consumers of energy connect to NAPOCOR or medium-sized establishments band together and connect to NAPOCOR? Most probably, there will be an over production of energy and the households of Iloilo City will be the ones to shoulder the excess power.

I hope City Hall is looking for long-term solutions to the problem and not doesn't just save itself from high power prices but also liberate US from the high-prices of power :D
For me, this is a good move from the city hall itself. It might lead to some businesses transferring to other sources to connect with NAPOCOR directly but all I can say is, this is a positive move. The city hall needs to learn from the capitol when it comes to sourcing out electricity in a much cheaper rate. imagine our city government paying 7 million/ per month? It's 84 million pesos a year already less of our city government budget. This money can go a long, long way when it comes to projects, etc.

With regards to Ilonggos shouldering the bills in the future? I don't think so. This may even prompt the PECO to lower their rates. besides, there's 3 cooperatives around the city. We can source electricity from them, just in case.

why are ilonggo politicians so controversial?
Because Ilonggos are not afraid to voice their opinions. Plus the fact that Ilonggos' politicians are very extremes. Either they are a supoorter's supporter or you're in total disagreement. Walang in between. :lol:

^^yeah, me too, that's the carpenter bridge and on the right side of the bridge is the Saviour Int'l Hospital, the huge houses on the right is Southville i guess...
I'm trying to locate the saviour International Hospital since my eyes bit blurry. hehe. Ara man lang gali siya. The big houses in the pics are definitely from the Southville Village.

Airport sale puts Iloilo in world’s real estate map

Jeehan V. Fernandez
2007-04-26



A TOP executive of a real estate marketing network said the sale of the 54-hectare old Iloilo airport property in Mandurriao district has put the city and province in the global map of the booming real estate industry.

Jed L. Villanueva, senior vice-president of Fil-Estate Network, Inc. said Iloilo is teeming with potentials in the field of real estate.

Fil-Estate, which is composed of top five marketing companies, is working on the soon-to-open Centro Verde, a 103-hectare residential site in Pavia town, touted to be the biggest in Iloilo.

“Iloilo’s real estate market is very robust. Even Manila-based big players come to Iloilo as they already saw the local potentials 10 years back. Five of the top big players in the industry bidded for old Iloilo airport,” Villanueva said.

“The airport sale will increase the value of property not only in the immediate area in Mandurriao but Iloilo as a whole. It also puts Iloilo in the ‘radar screen’ of real estate players in the Philippines and rest of the world,” Villanueva pointed out.

Assessments of real estate broker CB Richard Ellis and lot pricing at Mandurriao area showed that the old airport could fetch around P500million to P2billion in revenues.

Five of country’s giant estate developers including Ayala Land Inc.; SM Prime Holdings, Inc.; Robinson’s Land; Empire East Holdings, Inc.; and Rockwell Land Corp. were pre-qualified to join the May 9 bidding.

Ayala Land is touted as the country’s top real estate firm; SM Prime, the largest mall developer; Robinson’s Land is also focused in operations of chain of shopping malls; Empire East is engaged in developing and marketing housing projects including condominiums and house-and-lot packages while Rockwell operates a mixed-used center in Makati.

Villanueva likewise stressed that the airport site development will “add up to the positive factors of attracting investors and good for Iloilo’s economy.”

He also attributed the rising demand in the real estate market, especially for residential lots, to the big number of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) who set aside money to buy house and lot for their families here.

“The OFWs have a lot of money. For instance, the dormant or time deposit accounts in Iloilo banks summed up to about P32billion.These funds are just waiting for the right projects to be spent, particularly on housing,” Villanueva said.

He also highlighted the mushrooming urban communities relative to the peace and order situation in the locality.

-The Guardian Iloilo

^^ Hay naku, nainit na guid ko sa kakahulat, sa May 10 pa gali mag-abri. Ay abaw! :cry:

Very impressive and convincing article. But imagine the amount of money the OFWs can spend when they're triggered. Iloilo is the home of so many Pinoy OFWs. And like the article says, the money is just waiting for right projects where Ilonggos can spend their money. One reason why so many new real estates sprouting in Iloilo right now and amidst a small-sized city, Iloilo can hold number of big malls in the region and highest numer of banks' concentration outside Metro Manila.

SP bet bats for ‘sports tourism’
Jeehan V. Fernandez
2007-04-27

A SPORTS events organizer running for the City council under the opposition banner, said Iloilo should exploit the potentials of sports tourism.

Boyet Rentoy, a marathoner and sports enthusiast, said Iloilo should support initiatives to promote sports tourism industry which has been mastered by developed countries.

“The Philippines’ take on sports tourism is only five percent compared to other countries where sports events have been transformed into a way of living. Hosting sports activities attract both visitors and businesses,” Rentoy said.

For instance, Rentoy said marathon events in Hong Kong and Singapore cost a participant around P30,000.

Sports tourism is seen to spur multiplier effects on local economy, particularly hotel and restaurants accommodations and small vendors.

Two of the biggest celebrations in the city, the Dinagyang Festival and Paraw Regatta have been drawing various sports spectacles that add color to the festivities and gather huge crowds.

“Iloilo’s potentials in sports tourism are already in place with more facilities available. However, it has not given much attention. We have to organize more tourism-related sports events. More activities are needed to be programmed,” Rentoy stressed.

“Balik-bayans going home for vacation are most likely to join sporting activities for souvenirs and not just prizes because of their appreciation of sports,” said Rentoy.

He also said sports development should start at the barangay level.

Rentoy, who founded sports organizations in Palawan and Negros since 2003, said he will work actively for Iloilo where he heads the Professional Sports Organizers Team (PROSPORTS).

Rentoy boasted that PROSPORTS initiated the Anti-Dengue Run and Bike for a Cause, the first of its kind in the country.

He also prided in organizing mountain bikers and trisikad groups nationwide.

In his sports-focused platform, Rentoy bats for a 10-year sports program, recognize outstanding athletes and provide scholarship grants to deserving young sports enthusiasts.

Rentoy also highlighted health benefits from engaging in sports activities.

“Sports buffs will have no more problems about high blood pressure and sugar. There’s no more need for medications because of healthy lifestyle through sports. But most people did not see how it is important,” Rentoy asserted.

Rentoy also shared his thoughts on the move champion pugilist Manny Pacquaio’s to run for congressman in South Cotabato.

“Flexing his muscles in politics might ‘affect his training because he is just a sportsman.

A sportsman’s job is different from a politician. But as a sports’ organizer all you need to do is to act even on a simple platform.”

source: The Guardian ILOILO (http://www.theguardianiloilo.ph/localnews0.php?id=2597)

WV gears for Guinness record for breastfeeding
2007-04-27

WESTERN Visayas will try to make its mark in the Guinness Book of World Records by achieving the most number of mothers doing simultaneous breastfeeding May 2, 2007.

The activity, dubbed as “Sabay-Sabay, Sumuso sa Nanay! Year 2,” is spearheaded by the Department of Social Welfare and Development in Partnership with the Department of Health, Technical Education and Skills Development Authority and local government units.

According to Alma Jornadal of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)-6, the activity started May 4 last year with some 3,541 mothers participating in the simultaneous breatfeeding in a “single site” breaking the record held by Berkeley, California, USA.

“This year”, Jornadal said, “the country is bent on achieving the First Guinness World Record on simultaneous breastfeeding in ‘multiple sites’,” Jornadal said.

The identified breastfeeding sites are: Iloilo City – Jaro covered gym, Jaro public plaza; Iloilo province – New Lucena, Sta. Barbara and Badiangan; Capiz - Roxas City, Dao, Ivisan; Aklan – Lezo, Tangalan, Buruanga, Kalibo; and Bacolod City.

Jornadal said the activity aims to promote exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of a child’s life and continued breastfeeding beyond two years.

It also seeks to promote the consumption of indigenous foods for complementary feeding and revive the Filipinos indigenous practices that sustained breastfeeding in the past.

During the May 2 nationwide activity, mothers will be served indigenous foods such as boiled saba, corn, gabi, kamoteng kahoy and local fruits in season. (T. Villavert/PIA)

source: The Guardian ILOILO (http://www.theguardianiloilo.ph/localnews0.php?id=2604)

Reg'l human capital mgt seminar May 21-23
2007-04-27

THE Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines – Western Visayas (CEAP-VI), in collaboration with the Management Association of the Philippines (MAP), the Asian Institute of Management (AIM) and the University of San Agustin (USA), will facilitate a seminar-workshop on human capital management on May 21-23 at the Sarabia Manor Hotel, Iloilo City.

Dubbed “Managing Human Capital: Best Results Through People,” the seminar-workshop is open to top and middle-level managers, supervisors including human resource managers/personnel officers, as well as to professors and students of human resource management.

The mix of participants from educational and non-educational organizations, as well as from profit and non-profit organizations, is expected to enrich the learning experience.

The three-day seminar-workshop will deal with the following topics: HR Challenges and Prospects in the Workplace; Characterizing the 21st Century Workforce; Assumptions about People: A Revisit; Changing Roles and Responsibilities; Emerging Work Structures and Systems; Pathways to Aligning the Different Perspectives on HR; and Best Practices and Models.

One of the key resource persons is Professor Mario Antonio G. Lopez, associate dean of the AIM Center for Development Management, who is concurrently in-charge of MAP’s extension program for continuing management education.

Lopez holds a master’s degree in business administration from AIM and a master’s degree in public administration from Harvard University.

Aside from teaching at AIM, he continues to have a varied multi-sector, multi-industry and multinational consulting career, and works with corporations, not-for-profit organizations and government agencies in the following areas: strategic national, sector, and corporate planning; human resources management and human behavior in organizations; human resources and organizational development; project development and management; policy analyses; and economic-political risk assessment.

The seminar will combine lectures, small group discussion and the case method, for which the AIM, the premiere management school in Asia, is famous.

It will accommodate only 40 participants who will get a certificate issued jointly by the CEAP-VI, AIM, MAP and USA.

For reservations or inquiries, please contact the CEAP-VI Secretariat at the University of San Agustin, at tel. nos. (033) 3374841 to 44 (local 250; look for Ms. Roda Daylo) or at telefax (033) 337-4403 (look for Ms. Carmen Dureza), or email: ceap6@usa.edu.ph.

source: The Guardian ILOILO (http://www.theguardianiloilo.ph/localnews0.php?id=2602)

^^ ^^ great pictures and articles. Keep them all coming, guys !

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v22/whyte/ILOILO/Pic697.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v22/whyte/ILOILO/Pic698.jpg

JARO BELFRY "REPLICA"

"stolen shot" from the office of one of our board of directors.
cguro parang giveaway sang iloilo corporate center before since it has that label at the bottom

beautiful @whyte. I hope we'll have this miniature available in our department stores. Puwede ng pasalubong. Cheers !

Govt workers’ congress slated
2007-04-27

THE Iloilo Council of Personnel, in coordination with the Civil Service Commission (CSC) and the Regional Council of Personnel Officers, will hold the 1st Regional congress of government workers May 3-4, 2007, at the Centennial Resort and Convention Center in Alta Tierra, Jaro.

CSC Director Imelda Abueg said some 300 government officials and employees in the region are expected to attend the congress.

Alma Ravena, president of the Iloilo Council of Personnel Officers for LGUs, said the two-day congress will give participants the opportunity to be updated on the policies and directions related to work values and ethics in government service.

Ravena added that the congress will serve as a forum to identify some best practices and innovations on work values and productivity.

The theme of the congress is “Work Values and Ethics: The real key to Productivity.”

Invited speakers are Commissioner Cesar Buenaflor, Marikina Mayor Maria Lourdes Fernando and Atty. Romero Federico S. Quimbo, who will relate their experiences, practices and policies on excellence in public service. (PIA 6/ESS)

source: The Guardian ILOILO (http://www.theguardianiloilo.ph/localnews0.php?id=2605)

^^ ^^ more and more seminars, worshops, conferences for Iloilo City in the nest few months. Well done ! :banana:

:wave:

* around two weeks na lang ang opening sang airport :D bisan delayed okay lang at least our excitement (and dismay) is being heightened :lol:
* if ever the opening of the new airport would coincide with the planned TU grand rally of sec gonzales in iloilo, imagien the media "frenzy" during that day.each candidate and vip will "promote" the airport indirectly :lol:
* wecky tani may ara man replicas of churches and other iloilo landmarks like museo/obelisk :lol: tani maumpisahan sang isa ka entrepreneur ang ini nga business para damo man ang magasunod.indi lang tani asta keychain/refrigerator magnet/tshirt ang mga "pasalubong range" naton.bisan kahoy lang pwede na pero mas nami kon medyo nami ang material

i tried to show this thread to some of my ilonggo workmates here in cebu, and surprisingly, mas marami akong alam sa kanila than them, thanks to SSC :lol: i told one na when she gets home, baka sa new airport na mag land yung plane, i described her your squeaky clean and ultra modern terminal and she was very excited, but a bit worried because sta. barbara will be farther from her home than the one in mandurriao, but then i told her that the mandurriao site will undergo bidding and among the bidders are the ayala, and rockwell, guess what, nabawi yung pagka worried niya :lol: :lol: and they cant tell iloilo from the pics that you have here. malaki daw ang pinagbago, some of them kasi are 2 years na di nakakabalik sa iloilo.
very classic comment from Ilonngos working outside @fund. It's not that they can't be bother at all what's happening in Iloilo at present but they're mostly not in a monitoring mode by any sense. And they're right to say though about "the looks" of Iloilo few years ago. For a matter of 2 years alone, Iloilo City showed big changes commercially and in infrastructures. :)

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/195/473469627_b75b90fa0f.jpg
Tabagak

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/173/473455440_7538df115d.jpg
Mohon Jeepney Terminal

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/190/473469295_3c85b447dc.jpg
Subdivision somewhere in Arevalo

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/225/473454994_27a3c046c9.jpg
Brgy. Sooc Squatter Relocation Site

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/185/473455652_e93946fb37.jpg
Iloilo River (with all the fish traps...)

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/191/473468755_8d77992087.jpg
The End of the Runway
Beautiful pictures. Thanks @IAMME.

wow oboi ur in iloilo! nice photos!!!
Go Oboi! Great pics indeed. :nocrook: :nocrook:

New Iloilo airport seen to
spur sevelopment of Panay

ILOILO City -- The new Iloilo airport of international standards is intended to serve as catalyst for development, according to Ed Mangalili, project manager of the New Iloilo Airport Project.

Mangalili recently briefed members of the Regional Development Council (RDC) during their tour of the facilities of the new airport. He said the airport would not only spur development around the area but even in the whole of Panay.

The construction of the new Iloilo airport, which is of international standards, came about because the old airport is no longer capable of future air demand, Mangalili said.

The new Iloilo airport is a bigger facility than the Silay airport in Negros Occidental, Mangalili told RDC members.

Among others, it boasts of a 2.5-kilometer by 45-meter wide runway which can accommodate Airbus 330 and 340 and Boeing 747 planes, three Passenger Bridges, two baggage claim conveyors, a 500 seating capacity passenger lounge, a three-kilometer access road and nine separate buildings all within the 188 hectare airport complex.

The cost of construction is pegged at P8.758 billion.

So far, Mangalili said, three airline companies have signified their intention to avail themselves of space within the new airport and are expected to move in within the week to arrange their offices. Spaces within the airport are also open to concessionaires.

The completed airport facilities will be formally turned over to the Air Transportation Office.

ATO will manage the facilities, according to Alan Java, ATO Area Manager.

Meanwhile to enhance the competitive advantages of the country’s five super regions, the government is set to complete this year, aside from the new Iloilo airport, seven other airport projects that would further promote tourism and logistics by providing a more efficient mode of transport for goods and passengers.

The eight airport projects are part of the 31 priority airport projects costing P94.37 billion targeted to be completed by 1022 under the Medium Term Public Investment Program (MTPIP).

source: Panay News (http://www.panaynews.com.ph/news3.htm)

:wave:

* around two weeks na lang ang opening sang airport :D bisan delayed okay lang at least our excitement (and dismay) is being heightened :lol:
* if ever the opening of the new airport would coincide with the planned TU grand rally of sec gonzales in iloilo, imagien the media "frenzy" during that day.each candidate and vip will "promote" the airport indirectly :lol:
* wecky tani may ara man replicas of churches and other iloilo landmarks like museo/obelisk :lol: tani maumpisahan sang isa ka entrepreneur ang ini nga business para damo man ang magasunod.indi lang tani asta keychain/refrigerator magnet/tshirt ang mga "pasalubong range" naton.bisan kahoy lang pwede na pero mas nami kon medyo nami ang material
I agree @whyte. I hope to see a "proper" Souvenir Shops" in Iloilo, just like the ones here in UK. Imposing structures like The Jaro Cathedral, St.Anne's Church in Molo, The Customs House, Museo Iloilo, Provincial Capitol, Arroyo Fountain, etc. are only few of the best ones. Very nice idea, indeed, @whyte.

Finally, they are here. The European combo, Space and Wecky (where's Kirby?)

At least, to lighten things up after the delays and a dirty old man who is embarassing the Ilonggo nation with his tactless comments.

May final date na ba talaga ang opening ng airport sa atin?

I agree @whyte. I hope to see a "proper" Souvenir Shops" in Iloilo, just like the ones here in UK. Imposing structures like The Jaro Cathedral, St.Anne's Church in Molo, The Customs House, Museo Iloilo, Provincial Capitol, Arroyo Fountain, etc. are only few of the best ones. Very nice idea, indeed, @whyte.

I like the term "proper" souvenir shops.
Quality should be one of their main selling point bisan mas mahal pa sya at least you're assured that it will last lets say a lifetime.

Id like to see Iloilo churches collectible items, imagine having them in your display.Plus some dinagyang related items pero not those usual wooden items.

:banana: :banana: :banana:

Finally, they are here. The European combo, Space and Wecky (where's Kirby?)

At least, to lighten things up after the delays and a dirty old man who is embarassing the Ilonggo nation with his tactless comments.
You made us like a chicken combo. hehehehehe. Actually, it was my midnight snack few minutes ago. hehehehehe.

Kirby went to see his friend as far as I know. :) Granted, he'll be around later pag gising pa. Otherwise, he's snoring like an elephant na siguro hehehehehe.

About Gonzales? hehehehehe ... he's stupid. What else to say? Maybe he needs a psychiatric review na siguro. :lol: :lol:

You made us like a chicken combo. hehehehehe. Actually, it was my midnight snack few minutes ago. hehehehehe.



:lol: :lol: :lol:

chicken-spaghetti-coke
the usual pinoy fastfood combo

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/191/473468755_8d77992087.jpg

this curved road will disappear soon :lol:
thanks for the pics IAMME

I like the term "proper" souvenir shops.
Quality should be one of their main selling point bisan mas mahal pa sya at least you're assured that it will last lets say a lifetime.

Id like to see Iloilo churches collectible items, imagine having them in your display.Plus some dinagyang related items pero not those usual wooden items.

:banana: :banana: :banana:
That's right. Ok lang sa akon ang wooden items but I prefer stone/marble or plastic ones. here, we have so much. Every corner siguro may ara souvenir shops. Nakita niyo naman siguro ang mga souvenirs halin diri ah. From shirts to pens to briefs/panties :lol: to mugs to calendar, etc. name it, we have it. With the looks of Jaro Cathedral and St Annes, puwede gid kita kabato sa St Paul's Cathedral.

POWER INTERRUPTIONS
Angry Ilonggos storm radio, TV stations

By DAVID ISRAEL SINAY

ILOILO City – Residents of the metropolis turn to local radio and television networks to lodge their complaints and inquiries during power interruptions, instead of addressing this to the Panay Electric Company (Peco).

....

She said services were hampered especially those of businesses dependent on power, particularly banks’ online transactions. Also, losses were incurred in sales opportunities because they could not process credit card transactions due to the absence of online connections, Lara added.

The Philippine Cities Competitiveness Ranking Project 2005, a study conducted by Asian Institute of Management Policy Center, revealed that expensive electric power is one of the factors perceived to hinder Iloilo’ competitiveness.

The study revealed that the reliability of electric power is one of the weakest indicators (in this city), aside from cost of power for industrial use, traffic management, road congestion, maintenance of road networks and vehicle density, among others.

Source: http://www.panaynews.com.ph/news2.htm

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

Another news on Electricity... can we do online appeal on this? We need to do something about this!

This is good news. If all city residents will start complaining then the city government will definitely do something about it. More, more, more ..

:lol: :lol: :lol:

chicken-spaghetti-coke
the usual pinoy fastfood combo
it's potato wedges and chicken strips (with 3 dips) plus a big bottle of coke> Yummy !

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v22/whyte/food/Pic701.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v22/whyte/food/Pic703.jpg

ate at bacolod chicken inasal last tuesday here in jupiter
their chicken inasal was very dry unlike the one usually served back in the province.pero manamit ila liempo

http://static.flickr.com/73/205687496_63610f223f.jpg

NO VIOLENT "SALIVATING" REACTIONS ha :lol:

^^ ^^ NAMIT !

guys heres our panay news advert.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cOBPvg9fyP4
<object width="425" height="350"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/cOBPvg9fyP4"></param><param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/cOBPvg9fyP4" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="350"></embed></object>
medyo delayed ang sound sa pag upload.
you can check it sa multiply site namon mayadstudios.multiply.com (http://mayadstudios.multiply.com)
enjoy!
seems that more and more companies are seeking your expertise, alvin. Very nice video.

SENATORIAL candidate Migz Zubiri claims he is a true-blooded Ilonggo.
We heard that his mother comes from Iloilo and his father from Negros Occidental.
And to back up his claim, he speaks fluent Ilonggo.
One of Migz’ relatives is Bert Soriano, who is busy campaigning for him.
Like Migz, Tol Defensor is also an Ilonggo whose roots came from Mina, Iloilo and his grandmother from Negros Occidental.
Mayor Rey Grabato of Mina sees to it that Tol will get 100 percent of the votes in his town.
We need Ilonggo senators in the Senate!
Oh bless!

BOASTFUL Raul accused Oca and Inday Janet before PGMA, alleging that the two big officials in the 1st District of Iloilo do not campaign for gubernatorial candidate Obet.
“I told the President that Oca and Janet do not support Obet. And I will not release their campaign funds if they will not comply with my orders. Pahalinon ko ina si Oca sa puwesto ya. Even the mayors who do not support Obet will face a harsh future. Remember, many of them have cases in my office. I will make life miserable for them,” the arrogant “king” told his underlings and “slaves.”
Raul has the penchant to arrogate unto himself his awesome powers under the present dispensation as if he owns the world.
“Kadlaw lang si Oca kana ka dia,” a clerk in Oca’s office hollered.
Say mo, Juanito Gaje?
Toting “dies-dies” laughing.
medyo kaladlawan ang nagakatabo sa first district. I never knew that Gonzales is so powerful? Imagine PGMA's government still supporting him? Is PGMA insane to overlook what's happening in her backyard? TAKE GONZALES DOWN FROM THE POST ! Hala Bira ! :banana:

it's potato wedges and chicken strips (with 3 dips) plus a big bottle of coke> Yummy !
Undoubtedly Dominos. he he. Mahilig ka gali sa delivery Weck ha?

I like the term "proper" souvenir shops.
Quality should be one of their main selling point bisan mas mahal pa sya at least you're assured that it will last lets say a lifetime.

Id like to see Iloilo churches collectible items, imagine having them in your display.Plus some dinagyang related items pero not those usual wooden items.

:banana: :banana: :banana:

I agree @whyte. I hope to see a "proper" Souvenir Shops" in Iloilo, just like the ones here in UK. Imposing structures like The Jaro Cathedral, St.Anne's Church in Molo, The Customs House, Museo Iloilo, Provincial Capitol, Arroyo Fountain, etc. are only few of the best ones. Very nice idea, indeed, @whyte.
I agree with both of you guys. Definitely, it's a good idea to have our own souvenir shops.

* if somebody decides to put up a "proper" souvenir store and the products becomes an instant hit im sure others will folow suit but hopefully the quality should still be given much importance.daw kanami guid may ara ka collection sang mga miniature iloilo churches bisan facade lang pati man mga landmarks.

* if somebody decides to put up a "proper" souvenir store and the products becomes an instant hit im sure others will folow suit but hopefully the quality should still be given much importance.daw kanami guid may ara ka collection sang mga miniature iloilo churches bisan facade lang pati man mga landmarks.
I think there is a Pasalubong Shop in former Carlos Bakeshop.

What about the Trade Pavillon of IPA?

^^ sa may pakadto old airport?no idea that there's one there.sang san o lang may ara da?

Ive never been to IPA pero ive heard and tried some of their products mostly food :D

what we're "dreaming" about is a sort of shop where there are souvenir items like the jaro cathedral belfry replica. :D

^^ sa may pakadto old airport?no idea that there's one there.sang san o lang may ara da?

Ive never been to IPA pero ive heard and tried some of their products mostly food :D

what we're "dreaming" about is a sort of shop where there are souvenir items like the jaro cathedral belfry replica. :D

Dreaming guid.

But one things for certain, boxes of Jaro Biscocho Haus flood the arrival area of Cebu and Manila whenever an airplane lands on these airports.

Bisan gani sa barko, puro Jaro Biscocho Haus ang makit-an. Sa Bacolod naman either Merci or Bong-Bongs, sa Cebu naman Shamrock.

* if somebody decides to put up a "proper" souvenir store and the products becomes an instant hit im sure others will folow suit but hopefully the quality should still be given much importance.daw kanami guid may ara ka collection sang mga miniature iloilo churches bisan facade lang pati man mga landmarks.
I never seen a proper souvenir shops anywhere back home. Even in Manila daw wala ako makita. Something which sells like these:

http://p.vtourist.com/1/1597954-Expensive_Souvenirs-London.jpg

http://www.theirishsouvenirshop.com/pix/tlsscover.jpg

http://tinypic.com/68xbnp.jpg

maski typical stores lang pareho sa mga photos nga ini.

I think there is a Pasalubong Shop in former Carlos Bakeshop.

What about the Trade Pavillon of IPA?
The Carlos one is mostly foods whilst the IPA naman is handmade items. I've been to IPA display in the past, wala ka gid makuha didto. I could not find any items nga puwede mo dal-on diri sa sagwa.

Keeping the faith, living its miracles in 3rd Sa-ad Festival
By Bombette G. Marin

OVER the years, the town of Leganes has become special for different reasons. It is unique in offering so many highlights and contrasts in such a small area.

Primarily, Ilonggos visit it as a result of pilgrimages to San Vincente Ferrer, the patron saint of the town. Believed to be especially powerful, thousands of people, from as far away as neighboring provinces go there on a pilgrimage for many reasons-mostly because they were ill and wanted to be healed. It has become an important part of their spiritual life. The saint is considered to be an intermediary between human beings and God and many visit with the hope that their prayers will be granted. The palapak, or the act of treading the image of the miraculous saint to the devotees' head is considered to be central to the ritual and is accompanied with a silent prayer hoping that they, too, be touched by the spirit that led the saint to act in ways that affirmed life, compassion and love.

The town is principally a pilgrimage center in the province as devotion to the saint-renowned for his piety, scholarship, and preaching, has touched the lives of many who believed. Leganes is peaceful even though it is commercially developed. Its location being adjacent to Iloilo City in the south, make it ideal for people to take it in as a holiday too, especially in the month of April as it celebrates Sa-ad Festival. Sa-ad, a Hiligaynon term for "vow", depicts Leganesnons' intense spirituality and religious faith. This tourism celebration provides visitors the opportunity to worship with the local Christian community.

The festival is primarily a praise and worship presentation that combines Leganes' folktale with contemporary way of worship to choreographed steps. It is their own expression of worship, enhancing their personal worship as well as adding visual element to public worship. It is in their hearts that makes the expression real, God-honoring and a blessing. Normally interpretative, dancers use props and processional movements with costumes reflecting God's holiness and order. They dance for joy to praise their patron saint for his deliverance.

With this year's theme of Keeping the Faith...Living its Miracles, Leganes will celebrate the 3rd Sa-ad Festival with lots of food, drinks, music and activities for everyone to enjoy. Starting on April 12 until the 20th, a Novenario to San Vicente Ferrer will take place at their parish at 7 a.m. The Opening Salvo will be on April 16 with the Presentation of Sa-ad Queen (Miss LYP 2007) and Photo Exhibit on the 17th. The Grand Coronation Night of Miss LYP 2007 will be on April 19 with the Eucharistic Celebration and the GRAND PALAPAK with the much-anticipated HUBON Street Dancing Competition on the 20th. Leganes and its surrounding areas have a number of attractions comparable to the best in other towns in the province. One must not miss visiting these places and explore the fascinating world of this town in Iloilo.

Gethsemane also known as Jamora's Orchard is a retreat center conveniently located within an easy driving distance from the poblacion. It offers a place of seclusion and tranquility where individuals are provided with opportunities of faith development, personal growth, greater awareness of and respect for earth and cultural understanding. The center is located on Barangay Napud and has a main building with a meeting area, a spiritual direction room, and 8 rooms that can accommodate 4 persons for overnight stays. Trails for hiking are available nearby.

Tipong's Game Fishing and Restaurant is one big gastronomic adventure. Authentic as well as fusion cuisine abounds in this place-a popular choice is their bangus sisig. For leisure among travelers to the area, it is a scenic, 1-hectare area with brackish water fishponds where visitors can go kayaking and fishing where they can have their catch cooked in their restaurant. Perfect for casual get-togethers, group outings and large families with ample parking.

Aside from salt-making, other local industries in the area are experiencing a perk-up as Leganes is traditionally noted for their sturdy "uway" or rattan furniture pieces fashioned by family entrepreneurs in Barangay Guihaman; exquisite fossilized leaves craft which is fashioned by Lanot Paper and Lighting International in Barangay Nabitasan; good quality red bricks and flower pots by Estmont Jaen Bricks in Barangay Napud; and perfect gift items from Woodfashion by Butch Hinayhinay in Barangay Guintas.

Now, more than 67 years since its independence as a town, Leganes is home to 61,084 friendly and hospitable people. With its proximity of 10.9 kilometers from the city, it is an area to invest in today. With an area of 3,216 hectare comprising of 18 barangays, Leganes is a small but progressive town. And with its ever-pervading sparkle of unity and cooperation and the undaunting spirit of oneness among its people, the town builds a watershed of culture that is distinct on its own. With character and growth, Leganes draws upon its heritage, blazing the trails in trade and tourism to create greater prosperity for its community and the rest of Iloilo.

source: Sunstar ILOILO (http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ilo/2007/04/27/feat/keeping.the.faith.living.its.miracles.in.3rd.sa.ad.festival.html)

I never seen a proper souvenir shops anywhere back home. Even in Manila daw wala ako makita. Something which sells like these:

http://p.vtourist.com/1/1597954-Expensive_Souvenirs-London.jpg

http://www.theirishsouvenirshop.com/pix/tlsscover.jpg

http://tinypic.com/68xbnp.jpg

maski typical stores lang pareho sa mga photos nga ini.

In Manila, we have the Balikbayan Handicrafts (they have a number of branches around the metro) and Kultura (an SM affiliated store). For a more Pinoy feel, one can go to Quiapo and shop under the Quezon Bridge. Here you can bargain will the prices. :) I used to go the IPA Showroom at their former location inside the DTI building. They have a lot of products on display and they have miniatures of Jaro Belfry, Molo Church (?) and Jaro Cathedral (?). Also they have mugs featuring those above-mentioned structures. I don't know about now since I haven't been to their new showroom.

______________________

What I wish for Iloilo is to produce "marketable" souvenir items. Souvenirs that are varied and cheap. Look at Baguio, one can buy keychains for 3 at P25 only! Strawberry jams so cheaply priced at P20 and P25 for a bottle.

We must learn not to bank on one time gain from selling overpriced souvenirs. We must also develop new and unique items to sell and not just copycats. A souvenir is a small representation of our dear city and province, I think this is one sector of our tourism industry that must be developed and promoted too. :)

Had a great and filling dinner at JD Bakery Café - Roadhouse Complex. Really miss their food so I had Tuna Garden Salad, Pancit Molo, Asian Barbecue Pizza, Blueberry Cheesecake and a glass of Iced Tea (the other glass is water)!

http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h141/oboi_1/JDmeal.jpg

I can't believe I finished it all! With what I ordered, I only spent P164.50! :nuts: Breakdown: Tuna Garden Salad - P40.00; Pancit Molo - P18.50; Asian Barbecue Pizza - P55.00; Blueberry Cheesecake - P37.50; and Iced Tea (16 oz.)- P13.50.

Namit na! Sulit pa! :cheers:

Had a great and filling dinner at JD Bakery Café - Roadhouse Complex. Really miss their food so I had Tuna Garden Salad, Pancit Molo, Asian Barbecue Pizza, Blueberry Cheesecake and a glass of Iced Tea (the other glass is water)!

http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h141/oboi_1/JDmeal.jpg

I can't believe I finished it all! With what I ordered, I only spent P164.50! :nuts: Breakdown: Tuna Garden Salad - P40.00; Pancit Molo - P18.50; Asian Barbecue Pizza - P55.00; Blueberry Cheesecake - P37.50; and Iced Tea (16 oz.)- P13.50.

Namit na! Sulit pa! :cheers:
Wow! 165 only for all of these?^^

Wow! 165 only for all of these?^^

Revel bar per slice is P6.50 only!
JD offers the most-affordable and student friendly prices outside the school cafeterias.

Revel bar per slice is P6.50 only!
JD offers the most-affordable and student friendly prices outside the school cafeterias.

Oh how I miss JD's Revel Bar -- addicted to it when I was in HS.

Oh how I miss JD's Revel Bar -- addicted to it when I was in HS.

Its my alternative to the expensive butterscotch.

My visitors from GMA Manila last year were surprised at the price of the food. Ginpaka-on ko sila sa LaPaz Branch, ti abi nila ya kamahal sang pagkaon kay daw ka-class sang lugar, hotel nga daan. Ay abaw! Daw nag-abot sa dulunggan ang ila ngirit sa kalipay kay busog na sila for a full meal for P50 dason ang large iced tea nila P12.00 lang! :D

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/191/473468755_8d77992087.jpg

this curved road will disappear soon :lol:
thanks for the pics IAMME

ngaa?

gub-on ang karsada if may makabakal na sang old airport?duman ko "airport" lang,hindi dala ang kalsada?!

kay ang curve man lang dra sa pics ay karsada,ang runway indi man curve! :?

^^ Dira bala ko naaksidente sang ga-drive ko motor. Kay nag-overshoot ako kag na-miscalculate ko ang kurbada. That place brings back memories of that fateful day, hehehehehe!!! :lol:

Additional incentives granted
to Iloilo airport developer

ILOILO City – The Iloilo City government is set to give additional incentives to the developer of the old Iloilo Airport in Mandurriao district if it will be completed within one year after the award of the contract.

Mayor Jerry Treñas created a task force to study the possible incentives exclusively for the developer of the old airport.

The task force is chaired City Legal Officer Edgar Gil and Treasurer Katherine Tingson and Nelson Parreño of the Assessor's Office as members.

"They will think of some ways to attract developers to immediately start working. If they start right away, this will mean jobs and upon completion of the job will mean more business to come and additional employment opportunities," Treñas said.

The mayor said the old airport's privatization scheme is being readied for the opening of the new one in Sta. Barbara and Cabatuan towns.

He said the said incentive is on top provided for under the Incentive Ordinance for big investors in Iloilo City.

Treñas said he wants to see an immediate development on the airport site.

The 54-hectare old Iloilo airport has caught the interest of five property developers. These include the Ayala Land Inc., Empire East Holdings Inc., Robinson's Land Corp., Rockwell Land Corp., and SM Prime Holdings Inc.

The mayor had separate meetings with the chairs of each interested developer where he discussed the need of the city to have a theme park, an ICT park, a big hospital for medical tourism and a convention center that can accommodate up to 5,000 participants.

He said whoever wins the bidding should take seriously the needs discussed with them.

Meantime, the Department of Finance has reset to May 9 from April 29 the bidding for the airport.

The privatization of the old airport is expected to generate about P500 million to P2-billion for the national government.

The city government, on the other hand, is optimistic on possible investments for the city that will mean job opportunities for the Ilonggos and a more vibrant economic activities.

source: Panay News (http://www.panaynews.com.ph/news5.htm)

Island hopping highlights
Earth Day celebration

ILOILO City – The Community Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) conducted an island hopping activity to commemorate Earth Day recently.

DENR Regional Technical Director for Research Alice Lustica said the activity, participated by various stakeholders in northern Iloilo, was in the islands of Naburot, Gigantes, Sicogon and Pantalan in Carles town.

The event, Lustica said, did not only expose the participants to the tourism value of the four islands but also served as avenue to bring to the attention of residents the need to preserve the environment.

They also brought the DENR's programs and services in forestry, land management services, environmental management, mines and geosciences and protected areas, she said.

The island residents were also briefed on laws protecting the environment such as the Clean Air Act, Solid Waste Management Act, Fishery Code, Mining Act and Biodiversity.

The DENR-CENRO conducted the island hopping event to bring to the grassroots vital information on environment.

For its part, Sara municipality conducted a recycling competition, cultural contest and coastal clean up.

source: Panay News (http://www.panaynews.com.ph/news4.htm)

To avoid the monstrous traffic at the stoplight area, private vehicles please use this new route from Sports Complex/Westbridge to Jalandoni Bridge when going to the City Proper. Thanks!
1ofgPpjT5Fg
(I don't know why the video quality is so bad when the original isn't/)

PGMA approves P30M for road-widening to new Iloilo Airport

President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has approved in principle the P30-million fund for the widening of city roads leading to the new Iloilo Airport in Sta. Barbara and Cabatuan towns.

This was confirmed by Mayor Jerry P. Treñas who met with President Arroyo in Malacañang recently.

Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Planning and Design Chief Engr. Danilo Peroy said the project covers the stretch of L-98 in Desamaparados towards Christ the King in Ungka, Jaro district with a distance of about 3.65 kilometers.

The DPWH estimated that the road widening project alone will cost about P61.5 million.

The project also included the widening of three bridges in Dungon which is estimated to cost P29.1 million.

Peroy said the road and bridge widening project will need a total funding of P90.6 million.

Based on the plan, the road widening will be focused on the right side portion to make uniform with the existing diversion road. This would mean an 8.2 meters to 10 meters additional carriageway including the shoulder.

Once completed the city road leading to the airport in Sta. Barbara will already be a four-lane highway that can accommodate bigger volume of vehicles.

Peroy said they are still waiting for the information about the President's P30-million funding from DPWH Regional Director Rolando Asis.

He said it is the city government which portion of 3.65 kilometers stretch will be first widened with the arrival of the said fund from the President.

Mayor Treñas expressed hope that President Arroyo will pour in more funds for the project's completion.(PNA)


Link : http://news.balita.ph/html/article.php/20070427111026345

wow JD i ised the food there.
anyways

congrats ILOILO sa aliwan

santa barbana is on the Top 10
Dinagyang fetival 1st runner up
iloilo float 2nd runner up
Reyna ng aliwan 1st runner up.

altough second lng dinagyang, theyre still the heavily apluaded. ill post photos tomorrow . kapoy gid ako.. got sunurn, cough. ody aches. i need to rest today.

Lew> can testify kagai mag hambal ko wala na gid ako tingog napaos ako. kay wala man ako tulog. nag night shift pa ako before the aliwan.

Full aliwan rsults on my blog.

Eric, magpawhay ka na 'to wala ka na tingog kagab-i...hehehe! Basi kit-anay naman kita liwat sa MOA karun. :)

I will also post my pics sa sunod man nga adlaw. Sorry waay kami ka kuha video kay wala gid plastaran kag sobra gid kagutok. Basi tagaan man ako sang mga maestra ko nga taga-Jalandoni sang kopya sang official video sa June pa ugaling kung magpuli ako....hehehe!

Danish prince to check wildlife projects

The Philippine Star 04/29/2007

Prince Henrik of Denmark headed a 12-man delegation that arrived Friday night to inspect wildlife projects in the country for possible funding.

Prince Henrik and his group were met by Royal Danish Consul General in Manila Ricardo Romulo upon their arrival at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport.

Romulo said the group will be in the country until May 6.

Prince Henrik, president of the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) in Denmark, will take a look at how the country’s wildlife is being protected as he visits provinces like Iloilo, Albay and Sorsogon.

Prince Henrik sponsors or provides funding for wildlife projects in different parts of the world.

The inspection tour began yesterday with wildlife officials and some Philippine National Police personnel escorting the group.

Henrik, who holds the title Prince Consort of Denmark, is the husband of Queen Margrethe II.

It was in 1972 that the prince helped create the Danish WWF. He is also a supporter of the Danish Red Cross.

Henrik is known as well to go on business travels around the world, representing and promoting Denmark along with representatives of the industry.

He is also the president of Europa Nostra, an organization dedicated to the preservation of Europe’s architectural heritage. – Rudy Santos

http://www.philstar.com/philstar/News200704290403.htm

This is a funny Friendster profile of Metro Iloilo ... :)

Check http://www.friendster.com/profiles/metroiloilo (Metro Iloilo)

Some random Pics from Flicker

http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h151/soulmaker27/328145405_c6d8d090c3.jpg

http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h151/soulmaker27/326068724_7f2fec5f70.jpg

http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h151/soulmaker27/326068712_492cf6b569.jpg

http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h151/soulmaker27/300820266_2ebbcc2e23.jpg

http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h151/soulmaker27/300820265_659580209c.jpg

Pan de Azucar

Second man ang WV sa Palaro (both in Elementary and Secondary Division) Congrats!:)

NCR extends Palaro reign

By June Navarro
Inquirer
Last updated 05:51am (Mla time) 04/29/2007

KORONADAL CITY—National Capital Region retained the overall championship of the 2007 Palarong Pambansa yesterday but not after surviving scary moments in basketball at the close of the meet at the South Cotabato Sports Complex here.

The Big City dribblers floundered against Zamboanga in the secondary boys’ basketball final before pulling through behind a well-mapped play executed by Julius Wong and Ryan Buenafe in the dying seconds.

Buenafe received a baseline inbound pass from Wong and struck with six seconds left to carry the Metro Manila bets to a come-from-behind 86-85 victory over the Zamboangeños and cap NCR’s perennial domination of the games.

Reigning supreme in 10 events, NCR again ruled the secondary division of the week-long meet after compiling 365.4 points.

NCR’s other triumphs came in archery, boys’ athletics, badminton, baseball, boys’ chess, rhythmic gymnastics, boys’ swimming, boys’ table tennis and taekwondo.

Western Visayas was runner-up for the second straight year with 218.5 points after topping football, girls’ athletics and boys’ volleyball and placing second in boys’ athletics and boys’ chess.

Football powerhouse Western Visayas lived up to its status, overcoming NCR’s twice-to-beat edge by winning the first game, 1-0, and following it up with a 2-1 upset in the title playoff.

Southern Tagalog-A was third overall with 202 points after ruling girls’ swimming and table tennis while Central Luzon took the girls’ volleyball title to overtake Central Visayas for fourth place with 122.9 points. Central Visayas came in fifth.

Armed with a twice-to-beat advantage in the finals, the Central Luzon volleybelles bounced back from their defeat in the first game to down NCR, 26-24, 25-21 in their do-or-die encounter.

Western Visayas triumphed over Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao, 25-12, 25-13, 25-19, in secondary boys’ volleyball.

It was another NCR-Western Visayas 1-2 finish in the elementary level with NCR garnering 275 points on the strength of victories in baseball, chess, gymnastics, swimming and taekwondo. Western Visayas amassed 236.5 points.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/sports/view_article.php?article_id=63074

Philippine Football Association (PFF) Men`s National Championship 2007
in Bacolod.

Iloilo - NCR 1-1 after ordinary time. 3-3 after extra time . Iloilo lost 8-9 on penalties !

NCR will meet Negros Occidental in the finals.

^^ we lost to the same Squad when it was held in Iloilo last year. sigh....

AMBIENT VOICES (ABS CBN News)
by MA. ISABEL ONGPIN

Just back from a Museum Foundation cultural trip to Iloilo City and Province. Among many highlights were Ilonggo cuisine and food delicacies such as managat fish and fresh oysters, batchoy, biscuits, barquillos and dulce gatas. They made for many enjoyable meals and happy memories setting the stage for the tours.

The Iloilo churches, made mostly of coral stone and dating from the 16th century in their first incarnation, are outstanding. Iloilo City is the second oldest city in the Philippines after Cebu and antedates Manila and urbanization started early here. The plazas of the city and province are huge and symmetrical, set in front of the churches and city halls. The Miag-ao Church and the San Joaquin Church outside the city with their carved facades are outstanding examples of Filipino religiosity and art. Their incredible and distinctive ultimately native design make one’s soul soar to the Deity in awe and thanksgiving for their encompassing spirit and beauty.

Iloilo City and its environs of Jaro, Molo and Arevalo have innumerable vintage houses, some of them about 200 years old, when Iloilo was a the beginning of its economic ascendancy with the opening of the Iloilo port to world commerce, when its weaving industry was at its peak, when sugar as a commercial crop was creating wealth. It would subsequently be the richest city in the country. Most of its houses date from the 1920s and 1930s when sugar demand was at an unparalleled high after World War I. From this period, the houses are mostly in the Art Deco style but with the inevitable Filipino earmarks such as native carvings, paintings, folk art and furniture. A good number of public buildings and commercial structures in the city date back to this time. Sometime in the early 1940s Iloilo experienced an economic decline vis-à-vis Negros, a decline that only recently is beginning to reverse. The downside of economic decline we all know but the silver lining is that those years of inertia probably saved its houses and buildings for today. Now they may be threatened by rapid urban sprawl precipitated by increased commercial activity. Fortunately, the present mayor, Jerry Treñas, and his councilor, have demonstrated an initial appreciation for what Iloilo City has in terms of heritage and taken steps for a preservation program.

On the private-sector side, Iloilo City residents are proud of their cultural treasures and willing to make the effort to preserve them with their own moves for conservation. The Iloilo City Museum is their own institution and thrives purely on private initiative and funds. It is lovingly managed and stocked by Iloilo City citizens who are responsible for keeping at heart a gracious and cultured community despite threats of thoughtless commercialization.

The Iloilo River is one of our best city rivers, wide and relatively clean, an asset in terms of environmental beauty and local history. Our hotel, the Del Rio, located along the river, exuded a homey provincial charm that symbolized the city and its inhabitants.

Iloilo City is an education center for Western Visayas with important and large universities in the city, such as the University of Western Visayas, which has a medical school, the Central Philippine University dating from early in the American times and the University of San Agustin. The University of the Philippines has its Iloilo and Miag-ao campuses, the latter encompassing 1,200 hectares. And Ateneo de Manila has started its Ateneo de Iloilo branch.

For sentimental reasons my favorite is the Assumption Iloilo School dating from 1911 and built along the banks of the Iloilo River, on the same street as our hotel. Its original building, erected in 1912, still exists with capiz shell windows intact. It also has a 1934 auditorium in Art Deco and a lovely chapel renovated in the 1950s with a beautiful statue of Our Lady of the Assumption looking down from a niche above the altar. With a thousand students, it has managed to balance school buildings with open spaces which feature expanses of grass, a number of grand trees and flowers and a beautiful city campus.

A dear teacher and nun, Sister Cristina, herself from Iloilo City, took us around showing us the new high school building, the gumamela bushes with varicolored flowers, the new nuns’ quarters (the last to be built after every building needed was in place) and the river along the school. It was a magic moment early Sunday morning just after the quiet 6 a.m. Mass with the nuns, when Sister Cristina took us around. That moment defined Iloilo City to me.

Many other sights and things to do await the local tourist in Iloilo. There are beautiful handicrafts from hand-woven piña, jusi and hablon cloth to woven baskets as well as the irresistible food items. And best of all are its warm, innately cultured people, now happy to share their treasures and city with those who appreciate them.

Source: http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/storypage.aspx?StoryId=56509

Pototan villagers take the rice wine challenge
By Kathy M. Villalon

Out of 12 kilos of rice, they are able to produce 60 bottles of rice wine for the consumption of the villagers. Each bottle costs P150, thus they earn P9,000 a month

WHEN Mayor Pablo Perez of Pototan looked for an area that will take on the challenge of producing rice wine as part of the One Town One Product (OTOP) efforts of the government, the villagers of Barangay Paho accepted it.

So, in November 29 and 30, 2005, a pilot training on rice wine making was conducted. Then, with a start-up capital of P10,000 from the village officials, the Rural Improvement Club manufactured rice wine in three varieties --- muscovado, refined white and washed sugar.

The muscovado-based rice wine is ideal for women, while the two are for men because of their strong taste.

According to Miralyn Penaso, coordinator of the Department of Agriculture's Home Resource Management, some of the products made it to the United States and "they said it tasted like their California wine."

The Philippine Rice Institute (Philrice) also validated its taste, compared it to their 'tapuy' and approved it.

Penaso admitted that this is a small-scale livelihood project because of the lack of funds. "We really need money to produce more. We also have a problem in bottling," she said. She revealed that they make use of the Matador Brandy bottles that are being collected from the villagers' homes.

Out of 12 kilos of rice, they are able to produce 60 bottles of rice wine for the consumption of the villagers. The other raw materials include tap water and yeast. Each bottle costs P150, thus they earn P9,000 a month.

"I am thankful that our effort is gaining attention after the products were featured in the Tumandok Festival and in the Tourism Week held at Robinsons Place Iloilo last year.

They are also given by Mayor Perez as gifts, thereby promoting the product outside of the municipality.

At present, this project employs 25 persons.

THE CLUB

According to Penaso, RIC is a women's organization technically assisted by the Farm Home Resource Management Coordinator under the Agriculture Office of the Local Government Unit.

It's a voluntary village-based organization composed of rural women with varied interests and capabilities and it is mobilized for socio-economic projects. It is also a group that serves as a channel for developing women's leadership and potentials towards home and community improvement.

"The RIC also provides direction to small farming communities so that they can move from their current subsistence state to one wherein they undertake and sustain profitable enterprise on their own," Penaso said.

OTHER RICE PRODUCTS

Being the rice granary of the Province of Iloilo, Pototan also encourages training in making other products using rice.

Thus, Philrice gave a demonstration on how to make rice pulvoron, rice brownies,rice butterscotch, puto pao, chiffon cake and buche. Those who attended the five-day seminar were bakers, bakeshops and home economic teacher.

Penaso said that the officials of Barangay Paho hope to buy better equipment in order to produce finely ground rice. This equipment costs P120,000.

She hopes that with more support on these rice-based projects, the village will be able to produce more, thereby aiding the development not only of their area but Pototan as well.

source: The News Today (http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/04/27/pototan.villagers.take.the.rice.wine.challenge.html)

Iloilo City makes it as PCCP's fifth pilot area

Nearly two months after the focus group discussion (FGD) was held last November 24, 2006, stakeholders from Iloilo City’s transport, academe, business, government and non-government organizations and the local government unit finally paved the way for the launching of Clean Cities Iloilo Coalition (CCIC) last January 12, 2007. Together with the cities of Baguio, Davao, Makati and Marikina, Iloilo City now enjoys the prestige of being a pilot area under the Philippine Clean Cities Program (PCCP).
....

To read the whole article: http://www.sedp.ph/CCIC_Launch.php

To know more about Philippine Clean Cities Program: http://www.sedp.ph/cc_program.php

and to know more about SEDP: http://www.sedp.ph/about_sedp_sub.php



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


While browsing through the web I discovered this site

STAY IN ILOILO

http://www.stayiniloilo.com/index.php?

http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h151/soulmaker27/StayinIloilo.jpg


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


http://i1.treklens.com/photos/10979/guimbal_church.jpg

Guimbal Church

http://i1.treklens.com/photos/10979/fort_san_pedro_sunset.jpg

Fort San Pedro Sunset

Photos by Peter Jaena (http://www.treklens.com/members/PeterJaena/)

City gov't hopes to increase
number of Botika ng Bayan

ILOILO City – The Iloilo City government hopes to see the number of the Botika ng Bayan situated in the city doubled in the next few months to enable more poorer residents to avail themselves of cheaper medicines.

To date, 43 Botika ng Bayan are situated in a number of the city's big barangays. However, Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas said he wanted to see most of the big barangays here playing host to the project.

"I hope that we can double this in the next few months to reduce the number of residents who come to our health center to look for medicines. The medicines that are being sold in these pharmacies are cheaper," he said.

Treñas stressed that the Botika ng Bayan is not a dole out but a business. This means that in addition to cheaper medicines, the proprietor or the owner of the pharmacy is getting an income.

The operators of the Botika ng Bayan were given a seminar last January, which was facilitated by the city government. They also signed an agreement with the Department of Health (DOH) for the operation.

Treñas added that before the operator can put up a Botika ng Bayan, it is important that a barangay resolution is passed backing the putting up of the project. All barangay resolutions are being gathered by the city government and submitted to the DOH.

Meanwhile, boxes and cartons of medicines were sent by the DOH to the Iloilo City Hall Tuesday for distribution to the various Botika ng Bayan in the city.

source: Panay News (http://www.panaynews.com.ph/news3.htm)

City to merge skills training centers

ILOILO City – Iloilo City's two skills training centers have been instrumental in generating some 10,000 jobs for city residents.

With this development, the city government is planning to integrate the two training centers to be accredited with the Technical Education, Skills and Development Authority (TESDA) and hire more competent teachers.

The centers include the Helping Foundation, which used to be a non-government organization but is now being funded by the Iloilo City government and the Technical Institute of Iloilo City (TIIP), which is also a locally funded training center for vocational courses.

Incumbent city Councilor Armand Parcon is now working on the proposal to have the two training centers merged sometime this year.

Parcon said the Helping Foundation since it was founded in 1990 was one of the best options for Ilonggos who wanted to avail of short-term trainings or courses. After completing the short course, the graduates are already assured of jobs locally and abroad.

Among the short courses being offered are cosmetology, computer technician, building and wiring skills, food technology, sewing, hotel and restaurant services and a lot more. The trainings are being offered for free, according to Parcon.

On the other hand, the TIIP was established sometime in 1990 through a local city ordinance authored by Councilor Erlinda Liberiaga. It was created purposely to extend assistance to indigent residents of the city.

Parcon, during his incumbency, was hired as one of the consultants of TIIP. He allotted P100,000 from his office fund to support the operation of the TIIP.

source: Panay News (http://www.panaynews.com.ph/news2.htm)

^^ ^^ nice info, site and pics, soul. Thanks. I'll visit the website later. :banana:

Danish prince to check wildlife projects

Prince Henrik of Denmark headed a 12-man delegation that arrived Friday night to inspect wildlife projects in the country for possible funding.

Prince Henrik, president of the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) in Denmark, will take a look at how the country’s wildlife is being protected as he visits provinces like Iloilo, Albay and Sorsogon.

http://www.philstar.com/philstar/News200704290403.htm
Wow ! So the "prince" will be visiting Iloilo? Where in Iloilo to be exact? I hope he'll visit Pan de Azucar. It's the best place to develop eco-tourism.

This is a funny Friendster profile of Metro Iloilo ... :)

Check http://www.friendster.com/profiles/metroiloilo (Metro Iloilo)

Some random Pics from Flicker

http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h151/soulmaker27/328145405_c6d8d090c3.jpg

http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h151/soulmaker27/326068724_7f2fec5f70.jpg

http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h151/soulmaker27/326068712_492cf6b569.jpg

http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h151/soulmaker27/300820266_2ebbcc2e23.jpg

http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h151/soulmaker27/300820265_659580209c.jpg

Pan de Azucar
Beautiful ! Beautiful ! Beautiful !
:banana: :banana: :banana:

PGMA approves P30M for road-widening to new Iloilo Airport

President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has approved in principle the P30-million fund for the widening of city roads leading to the new Iloilo Airport in Sta. Barbara and Cabatuan towns.

Link : http://news.balita.ph/html/article.php/20070427111026345
well done. I hope she'll continue to support complementary developments for the new Iloilo International Airport.

brilliant articles and lovely pictures !

What happened to PECO-NAPOCOR interconnection now?

Congratualtions to Aliwan Winners !

More developments for Iloilo:
- eco-tourism
- tourism in general
- infrastructures
- businesses
- agriculture

any more updates?

Headlines in Iloilo, looking back at April 2007:

Commemmorated and Celebrated Holy Week, the Ilonggo way
The delayed opening of the new Iloilo Airport
Dinagyang Festival took up 2nd Place in Aliwan Festival 2007
Iloilo City as one of the 9 Philippine cities that are critical in water crisis.
The construction of "Stoplight" flyover commences.
Whole-day Blackout in Iloilo City blamed to PECO and PPC.
Sec. Gonzales to give P10,000 to Iloilo Barangay Officials who could give 12-0 votes for Team Unity that sparked up the controversial debates over "vote-buying" and arrogant stand of the official.
The release of "Iloilo: The Next Convention Destination" of ICVB and Mayad Studios
Recruitment of a BPO commences and rumored establishment of its office.
Election News
Family members compete for the local elections in the town of Sara.
If there are some headliners missing, feel free to add it.

Church "over-beautification": Will it ever stop?
By Augusto Villalon
Inquirer
Last updated 00:44am (Mla time) 04/30/2007


MANILA, Philippines - Along the rural Iloilo coastline continue to stand massive sandstone churches dating from the Spanish colonial regime. Imposing and prominent on seaside promontories, they are powerful icons of Spanish-influenced Catholicism and unmistakably convey the might of the Spanish empire.

Since the days of early Catholicism, bells rang from church towers to announce to the faithful Masses, christenings, weddings and deaths. Bell towers also served another purposeóas lookouts to detect maritime invasions.

Church bells rang either for soul and body, or for religious and municipal control. Coded chimes signaled the moment of consecration during Mass, enemy approach, even an evacuation of villagers within the fortified church walls.

Settlements were arranged bajo de la campana, dwellings spread in an area within hearing radius of the bells, to assure that the population could be rallied quickly and effectively. And for the faithful to be controlled.

Bells, bell towers and magnificent Philippine Baroque churches majestically positioned by the sea are part of the stereotypical Pinoy image, always set off by clear sky that goes on forever, crisp sunshine, coconut trees swaying, long beaches, crystalline blue water sparkling all the way toward the horizon. This vision has clung to the national psyche for generations.

It's in my psyche, too. Indelibly. That image is in a dossier filed in my head since childhood, difficult to shake off because of its association with youthful holidays and carefree times.

So imagine my delight to be invited to a Sunday morning drive along the coastline where each town to the west of Iloilo City (Oton, Tigbauan, Guimbal, Miag-ao and San Joaquin) toward the Antique border has a great church. The experience, as I remembered it, intensified as churches became grander as you approached the Antique border.

To prevent church overdose, I asked to see only two that day, a "beautified" church and an "un-beautified" one, still in its authentic state that I presumed (wrongly) to be Santo Tomas de Villanueva Church in Miag-ao, because of its inscription on the World Heritage List that certifies it to be among the world's coveted greats requiring proper conservation.

Actually, any church, or heritage structure for that matter, whether of World Heritage caliber or not, requires proper conservation. That day I found out a few things about the non-relevance of that statement in the Philippines.

The first church I was taken to was in the town of Tigbauan.

Tigbauan's shame

Built by the Agustinian priests, the present Church of San Juan de Sahagun in Tigbauan dates from 1867, built to replace an earlier church. The new church was "spacious but dark," writes Fr. Pedro Galende.

When we came into full view of the church facade and its attached convento (destroyed in 1984, replaced with a concrete structure), I sensed trouble. Although the fade stones were degenerated (facade] influences perfectly blended into one, splendid Mexican Plateresque style, continues Galende), a concrete lip painted white around the arched main door gave it all away.

This was the "beautified" one.

And beautified it was, certainly "spacious and dark" no more. Behind the stone facade was an entirely new structure, ceiling held high by open steel trusses, walls replaced by floor-to-ceiling openings. The altar, with the retablo removed, now stood beneath a blue-green grotto that seemed to be submerged, its elongated shell shape covered in what appeared to be mosaic of some kind.

I did not want to disturb the Sunday Mass going on. I confined my speed-reading of the interior from a distance, standing behind a side door farthest from the altar.

Mosaic was the order of the day in Tigbauan, and Byzantine (as in the Basilica of St. Mark in Venice) seemed to be the architectural style of inspiration. The original coral stone facing of the church, cut into tiny pieces and colored, covered practically every interior surface. Even the Stations of the Cross were of mosaic. Tropical folk Byzantine was the ambiance.

If the reality of remodeling a 140-year-old heritage structure - gutting it out and cutting its stone into little pieces - was not so horrifying to me, I would have been delighted with the naif, highly textured, multicolored exuberance of folk-art interior.

If only they mosaic-ed something else, not a heritage structure, maybe a plaza bandstand or purpose-built a new structure just aching to be encrusted in multicolored mosaic, there may have still been a heritage Tigbauan church today, plus a first-class folk-art structure destined to be the heritage of tomorrow.

Miag-ao's skin-deep beauty

After Tigbauan, next stop was Miag-ao.

Unparalleled folk-art exuberance in a Philippine Baroque setting distinguishes the facade of Santo Tom•s de Villanueva Church, inscribed on the World Heritage List as "an outstanding example of the Philippine interpretation of a Western architectural style."

Carved in high relief, its facade is a masterpiece. With wild abandon, unknown craftsmen carved a stunning juxtaposition of festoons, tassels, swags, tendrils and vines without any of the artistic restraint imposed by the discipline of Western art.

On the central panel of the facade, St. Christopher, clad in farmer's rolled-up trousers, carries Christ Child on his back while holding on to a lush coconut tree for support, surrounded by guava and papaya trees, ornamental urns and rococo balusters. Itís just absolutely superb. What more can anyone ask for?

"The scene merges Western Catholic iconography with a folk representation of the Iloilo countryside. The facade is a true Filipino masterpiece," "Living Landscapes and Cultural Landmarks" (2005) affirms.

Miag-ao beauty is unfortunately skin-deep. Despite stringent World Heritage guidelines that Philippine government authorities must uphold, the church interior managed to escape the high state of conservation required for a monument of its global stature.

Polished marble covers the floor. A new, over-gilded retablo shines to high heavens. Old windows have been cut open to floor length, concrete (a modern material totally incompatible with and damaging to colonial lime construction) ledges set in, and new doors installed. The stucco of interior walls scraped away, tarted up with color-tinted stone patterns.

The landscape was still church, sky, beach, and sea, just as I remembered it. However, that morning I learned how impossible it is to avoid church overdose in the Philippines, after I got seriously churched out after just two visits.

The days of ad-hoc church "beautification" may be over. The Philippine government and the Holy See have stepped in, with a very heavy hand, I hope, to jointly regulate the conservation of church heritage.

A historic conservation agreement, the first of its kind ever signed by the Republic of the Philippines and the Holy See, seeks tighter control on conservation of church heritage.

Signed on April 17 by Foreign Affairs Secretary Alberto Romulo and Apostolic Nuncio Fernando Filoni, the agreement pledges the cooperation of both states in the protection of the cultural heritage of the Catholic Church in the Philippines.

Objects covered by the agreement are only the 26 Spanish colonial churches declared as National Treasures and legally protected by the republic, museums, archives and libraries belonging to ecclesiastical institutions and organizations.

Therefore, both the Republic of the Philippines acting through the National Commission on Culture and the Arts (NCCA) and the Holy See represented by the Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) will agree upon proper methods of conservation, appreciation and use of the church cultural heritage.

When will both states expand the agreement's coverage to include very rigorous measures to prevent all church heritage in the Philippines from vanishing so rapidly?

Heritage watch

The construction of the Philippine Tourism Authority Sports Complex within Intramuros property continues.

A complaint was filed against PTA general manager Robert Dean Barbers by former PTA GMs Lito Banayo and Nelson Kua, who cited the constructionís violation of PD 1616 which states the Intramuros Administration must issue a certificate of appropriateness and permit for all new constructions. The ongoing construction has no permit.

Feedback is welcome at pride.place@gmail.com

look who's in the inquirer frontpage today :)

http://i16.tinypic.com/68h8gsp.jpg

hala ato na ko sa press box .. wala ko nahimutaran maayo ang design sa flost. subong ko lng nakita sang maayad ayad. eheheh

^^ which one the small column about Raul Gonzales or the pretty girl in the Dinagyang float?

PGMA approves P30M for road-widening to new Iloilo Airport

President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has approved in principle the P30-million fund for the widening of city roads leading to the new Iloilo Airport in Sta. Barbara and Cabatuan towns.

This was confirmed by Mayor Jerry P. Treñas who met with President Arroyo in Malacañang recently.

Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Planning and Design Chief Engr. Danilo Peroy said the project covers the stretch of El 98 in Desamaparados towards Christ the King in Ungka, Jaro district with a distance of about 3.65 kilometers.

The DPWH estimated that the road widening project alone will cost about P61.5 million.

The project also included the widening of three bridges in Dungon which is estimated to cost P29.1 million.

Peroy said the road and bridge widening project will need a total funding of P90.6 million.

Based on the plan, the road widening will be focused on the right side portion to make uniform with the existing diversion road. This would mean an 8.2 meters to 10 meters additional carriageway including the shoulder.

Once completed the city road leading to the airport in Sta. Barbara will already be a four-lane highway that can accommodate bigger volume of vehicles.

Peroy said they are still waiting for the information about the President's P30-million funding from DPWH Regional Director Rolando Asis.

He said it is the city government which portion of 3.65 kilometers stretch will be first widened with the arrival of the said fund from the President.

Mayor Treñas expressed hope that President Arroyo will pour in more funds for the project's completion.

source: Panay News (http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/04/30/pgma.approves.p30m.for.road.widening.to.new.iloilo.airport.html)

Flood control project boosts property appraisal in city
By Nestor P. Burgos Jr.

Demand for real estate in Iloilo and the neighboring town of Pavia have increased significantly with the expected mitigation of the flood problem of the city after the completion of a multi-billion flood control project.

Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas said the project has helped boost property appraisal with investors optimistic that it will resolve the city's perennial flooding problem.

"Prices (of real property) are picking up," Treñas told reporters in a project briefing of the Department of Public Works and Highways.

The mayor said the flood control project will put away the the long-running joke that houses in flood-prone subdivisions especially in Jaro District are offered for selling at "buy-one-take-one" packages.

Mayor Arcadio Gorriceta of Pavia town said investors have poured in P1 billion for real estate development for the first quarter of this year because of prospects for a flood-free residential properties.

The investment includes the development of a 100-hectare property by Sta. Lucia, said Gorriceta.

The Iloilo Flood Control Project II was conceived in response to the recurring flooding problem of the city which usually affects around 80 percent of the city's barangays from three to four times yearly.

The P4.26-billion project was part of recommendations in the master plan and feasibility study conducted by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (Jica) from 1993 to 1995.

It is financed by Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) 25th Yen Loan Package amounting to P2.95 billion and the Philippine government counterpart fund reaching P1.309 billion.

The main component of the project is the construction of the 4.75-kilometer Jaro Floodway at the intersection of the Tigum and Aganan Rivers which will divert flood water coming from Aganan and Tigum Rivers to the Iloilo Strait. A 690-meter floodway is also being constructed in La Paz District.

The project also includes the raising of river banks, stretching of the the alignment of rivers, excavation of high water channel and the excavation of connecting river channels to ensure the smooth flow of water.

The Stage 1 of the project started in March 2006 and is expected to be completed in September 2009.

The civil works component is 17.83 percent and ahead by their target of 16.73 percent by this month, according to an update report.

Engr. Al Fruto, assistant project manager, said they hope to finish acquisition of the right-of-way on work areas by June this year covering around 550 land owners.

Fruto said they have acquired the right of way or permit to work in 85 percent of the work areas. The land-owners were paid from P760-P1,800 per sq m.

Project consultant Kiego Ito said this is a high percentage of workable area compared to other projects.

Around 430 of 531 families affected by the Stage 1 of the project have been relocated to sites in Barangays Buntatala, So-oc and Kasadyahan," said Fruto.

Treñas said the perennial flooding problem has seriously affected the city's economy as economic activity comes to a standstill when the city is flooded.

He said the flooding has resulted to tremendous losses and disruption to business establishments and even government offices because these forced to close because consumers and employees could not leave their homes or pass through the city streets.

Treñas said the resolution of the flooding problem is also among the concerns of prospective buyers of the 50-hectare site of the old Iloilo airport.

Buyers will next month bid for the site estimated to cost from P500 million to P2 billion.

source: The News Today (http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/04/30/flood.control.project.boosts.property.appraisal.in.city.html)

^^ which one the small column about Raul Gonzales or the pretty girl in the Dinagyang float?
Gonzales beats them all. :lol: :lol: :lol: Anything he says and does are simply controversial.

What happened to PECO-NAPOCOR interconnection now?

Congratualtions to Aliwan Winners !

More developments for Iloilo:
- eco-tourism
- tourism in general
- infrastructures
- businesses
- agriculture

any more updates?
we're definitely evolving quickly .................. in all sense of the word "evolving". :lol:

1st reg’l congress of gov’t workers slated

ILOILO City – The Iloilo Council of personnel, in coordination with the Civil Service Commission (CSC) and the Regional Council of Personnel Officers, will hold the 1st Regional Congress of Government Workers on May 3-4, 2007, at the Centennial Resort and Convention Center in Alta Tierra Village.

CSC Director Imelda Abueg said about 300 government officials and employees in the region are expected to attend the congress.

Alma Ravena, president of the Iloilo Council of Personnel Officers for local government units, said the two-day congress will provide the participants with an opportunity to be updated on the policies and directions related to work values and ethics in government service.

Ravena added it will likewise serve as a forum to identify some best practices and innovations on work values and productivity and as a venue to reflect the time honored principle that a “Public Office is a Public Trust”.

The theme of the Congress is “Work Values and Ethics: The real key to Productivity,” which will be given substance to by speakers like Commissioner Cesar Buenaflor, Marikina Mayor Maria Lourdes Fernando and Atty. Romero Federico S. Quimbo, who will relate their experiences, practices and policies on excellence in public service.

The Congress is expected to result in a statement or resolution anchored on its theme.

panaynews.com (http://www.panaynews.com.ph/news3.htm)

I have a mouthful to say about the current situation of our beloved city. I was only there for 3 days but I've seen a lot of things - good and bad. I'll probably do it on the next thread. Patapos na abi.... :)

MIWD embarks on long term projects to address water supply problem

Metro Iloilo Water District (MIWD) is currently taking measures to address the problem on water supply shortage especially during long dry season.

In a press release sent to The News Today, MIWD interim general manager Edwin Reyes bared that the water utility will soon undertake the interconnection of San Miguel water system to the distribution line in San Jose, San Miguel in order to divert the excess water from the municipality to Iloilo City proper via Mandurriao-Molo area. The interconnection will cost MIWD about P3 million.

MIWD is also set to drill two additional production wells in Caboloan Norte, Oton, and San Miguel specifically near its existing deep well sources. MIWD presently maintains nine deep wells for its groundwater source.

Reyes further added that all pumping stations in San Jose, San Miguel and even in Sta. Monica and Caboloan, Oton will undergo rehabilitation with the immediate replacement of electro-mechanical components based on proper sizing and capacity to harmonize with the entire system thereby increasing their production capacity.

He also mentioned that MIWD is mulling another reforestation activity in Maasin watershed. The water district wants to initiate another reforestation project aside from the program undertaken by the local government units and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

According to him MIWD will request technical assistance from Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System and Bantay Kalikasan through Administrator Lorenzo Jamora for the preparation of a master plan on the new approach and framework for the sustainable development and protection of Maasin watershed.

MIWD will also consider the adoption of rainwater harvesting as alternative source of water supply and a way of recharging the aquifers of its several production wells.

Reyes is optimistic that as soon as these activities are realized, MIWD will be able to deliver enough water for its consumers from Maasin down to Iloilo City whether during prolonged drought or floods during rainy season.

In another development, Reyes disclosed that MIWD is also planning to engage in a bulk water supply agreement, either through the funding of the government or a private sector participation in anticipation of the growing water demand requirement of service area coverage as a consequence of its rapid growth and development. He hoped that this will be realized before or by 2010.

http://www.thenewstoday.info/



I have a mouthful to say about the current situation of our beloved city. I was only there for 3 days but I've seen a lot of things - good and bad. I'll probably do it on the next thread. Patapos na abi.... :)

^^ hehehe, cge sa next thread na lang para damo maka-react sa imo mga observations, pros-cons, gripes and applauds :)

San Agustin research head
joins Canada study mission

ILOILO City -- Prof. Jigger S. Latoza, director of the University of San Agustin Center for Research and Publications, was part of the 18-member Philippine delegation that did a study mission in Canada from April 9 to 23, 2007.

The mission was sponsored by the Institute of Public Administration of Canada (IPAC) and the Government of Manitoba, Canada, and was aligned with the ongoing Good Governance Program of the Canadian International Development Agency. It included interfacing with resource persons in Toronto, Ontario and in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

The Philippine delegation comprised eight officials from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), including Region VI Director Evelyn A. Trompeta, and ten board members of the Local Governance Training and Research Institutes - Philippines Network (LoGoTRI-Philnet), which include Latoza. It was led by Marivel Sacendoncillo, executive director of the Local Government Academy and concurrent president of the LoGoTRI-Philnet.

The study mission aimed to provide a venue for the sharing of best practices and knowledge transfer responsive to the needs of regional and local governance and of experiences on how research informs public policy formulation and development planning, showcase the value of and approach to developing volunteerism, and explore partnerships with IPAC, the Government of Manitoba and other institutions, such as the Canadian Urban Institute.

Latoza is concurrently director of the Resource Center for Public Management and Governance at the University of San Agustin, where he also serves as Executive Assistant to the University President. He represents the University in the Multi-Sectoral Advisory Council of the region’s Local Governance Resource Center at the DILG regional office, as well as in the Development Administration Committee and the Economic Development Committee of the Regional Development Council of Western Visayas.

He has previously done projects for the Philippines-Canada Local Government Support Program. He has several times also served as research consultant/partner of the Ateneo School of Government and the Asian Institute of Management Policy Center for studies commissioned by the World Bank, the Canadian International Development Agency, the United States Agency for International Development, the International Labour Organization, the German Technical Cooperation (GTZ), the Asia Foundation, and the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung, among others.

from: Panay News
link: http://www.panaynews.com.ph/news4.htm

Call centers propel Iloilo’s economy

Jeehan V. Fernandez
2007-05-01


DEPARTMENT of Trade and Industry (DTI-Iloilo) provincial chief Diosdado Cadena yesterday said the arrival of call centers boosts Iloilo’s status as one of the “hotspots” in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) super highway.

Cadena made the assessment with the opening of call center firm TeleTech next week.

Cadena said TeleTech executives will announce the launching of the company’s 1,000-seat site during a program in Iloilo City.

TeleTech earlier planned to branch out in Iloilo City but power concerns forced them to relocate to neighboring Bacolod City.

But the big pool of competent human resources in Iloilo attracted TeleTech to hold jobs fair to hire qualified personnel to work for their Cebu and Bacolod branches.

The jobs fair eventually became the basis of the company’s decision to invest in the city.

“They (TeleTech) are impressed with the passing rate of the jobs fair here. The opening of the newest call center confirms the attractiveness of Iloilo City’s spot in the cyber-services super-hi-way in the country,” Cadena told The Daily Guardian.

“The local environment is ripe for investments in ICT-enabled services in spite of power concerns which might be addressed primarily for this sector. Mayor Jerry Treñas has assured the ICT businesses that he will prioritize access to the main line of electricity,” Cadena said.

Treñas earlier met officials of Panay Electric Co. (Peco), the sole power distributor in the metropolis, ePLDT Ventus and Callbox to address problems in electricity supply, particularly rotating brownouts in the city.

Cadena said Iloilo is part of the “cyber-services hub” in the country scaling from Baguio to Zamboanga as envisioned by the Arroyo administration’s mega-regions program.

Cadena said Iloilo has all the elements to host the booming ICT industry.

“We have complete facilities like fiber optics which is already in placed and reliable.”

Fiber optics technology involves faster data processing usually used in long distance phone calls, cable TV system and Internet.

As regards to human resources, Iloilo City, being the educational center of Western Visayas, produces some 16,000-18,000 graduates annually.

“If developed, the ICT sector particularly call centers will provide jobs to these professionals and part-time jobs for students,” said Cadena.

ICT promotions started three years ago with the establishment of Iloilo Investment and Promotion Center (IIPC) as several multi-national firms eyed the city as possible expansion site.

The soon-to-be established Iloilo Foundation for Information Technology (I-FIT) also gathered local government, industry players, academe, and government agencies for a more active ICT promotion.

Treñas said the operations of call centers in the metropolis, aside from providing jobs to the Ilonggos, also spurred economic activities.

The mayor is optimistic that the city could ultimately attract more call centers to invest here.

“We have registered a ‘hit rate’ of 17 percent which means that more applicants from Iloilo are fluent in English compared to the national hiring average rate of only three percent,” Treñas said.

“A huge pool of our human resources is also trainable,” he added.

Treñas cited the competent human resources as the main factor that attracted major players in the ICT industry to invest in Iloilo City, making the metropolis as the next call center hub outside of Manila.

“The entry of call centers will provide additional jobs which will result to more money in circulation. The restaurants, coffee shops, spas, department stores, and taxis, among others will also benefit from the spending of ICT workers. This is what economists call as the multiplier effect where many services are being benefited,” Treñas said.

The city is host to existing call centers including ePLDT Ventus, Callbox, and Echo.

Asked whether the city has enough space to host interested call centers, City Tourism Office (CTO) chief Ben Jimena said Amigo Terrace Hotel has been accredited by the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA).

Two giant malls in the city are also applying for PEZA accreditation to encourage call center locators to expand their operations here.

From : The Daily Guardian Newspaper Iloilo

^^ Told you so, it will show up and I know where they will be having their site, hehehehe!!! :D

DPWH assures completion of Iloilo flood-control project

By ANGIE CHUI

ILOILO CITY — Local officials have lauded the initiative of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in embarking on the ambitious Iloilo Flood Control Project, a R4.26-billion worth endeavor to address the problem of perennial flooding in the province.

Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas said the project is vital to the economic growth of the province as the area floods easily even at the earliest hints of rain.

"We have long been asking for this project. I think it was back in 1995 when I was just a councilor when it originated," he said.

Treñas said the project has a very huge economic impact for the people as commercial activities have always fallen victim to floods which affect almost 50 percent of the city. "After heavy rains, areas in Jaro, portions of Mandaue and La Paz are the most severely affected. One time, even my own house was submerged in neck high flooding."

The mayor said that he is optimistic that the project will definitely resolve the flooding problem and undoubtedly increase real estate value and appraisal in the city. He recalled during the planning stages that the project was almost cancelled by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) from which the loan was sourced, but an outpouring of requests came to his office.

"Resolutions, community organizations, urban poor groups, and businessmen continued to flood my office, saying that the project cannot be cancelled," Treñas recalled, saying that even now, in anticipation of the project’s completion in February, 2009, real estate values have increased greatly as investments keep pouring into the province.

He also disclosed that during one of his recent meetings with President Arroyo, she assured the funding for the second stage of the project will be provided for in the budget so there is no reason to put the flood control inititive on hold.

Meanwhile, Pavia Mayor Arcadio Gorriceta welcomed the implementation of the flood control project saying it is among the biggest contributors to the economy.

"When it rains in these parts, the water rises fast at an alarming level. Vehicles from the interior towns cannot enter the city and the entire economic activities are paralyzed," he said.

According to Region 6 Director Rolando Asis, Package 1 of the project, involving the construction of the Jaro Floodway, improvement of the Tigum River and improvement of the Aganan River, which was undertaken by Hanjin Heavy Industries and Construction Co., was completed in March last year several days ahead of schedule.

Package 2, which entails the improvement of the Iloilo River, improvement of the Upper Ingore Creek, and improvement of both banks of Jaro River Mouth, was awarded to the China International Water and Electrical Corp., and began in February, 2006. It is now proceeding ahead of schedule and is seen to contribute to flood mitigation, especially with the onset of the three-month La Niña phenomenon at the later part of this month.

Meanwhile, Project Manager engineer Jerome Borjal assured that the project will be completed within the prescribed period before the JICA loan expires in September, 2010.

"With regard to operations, we still have give or take, one more good month before the La Niña, but even so, we will still proceed with the project, albeit slow down our operations a bit."

He said that the project, even if it is just halfway completed, will serve its purpose and is expected to mitigate flooding in the city during the coming rainy months. "Even more so when it is completed," he said confidently.

www.mb.com.ph (http://www.mb.com.ph/PROV2007050193002.html)

Guys, click on this link from http://www.spi-bpo.com/images/upload/about_spi/map_10.3.06.swf. Do you know where they're located at?
We are indeed luring ICT companies to set up operations in our our city.

^^ Ey, I never knew that SPI has an Iloilo branch. All I know is that one is here in Cebu (sa IT Park) for healthcare delivery.

Edit: A...ok. I checked the website and ePLDT is an investor. This might be referring to ePLDT Ventus.

Yeah. Thanks for the info bern :)

pa post photos of Dinagyang from the recently concluded Aliwan Fiesta

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/202/478407977_a3fb670f56.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/198/478381116_188005b853.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/183/478397263_841c77cafa.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/195/478397261_6dafd96f72.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/171/478397235_f97bf40494.jpg

Call centers propel Iloilo’s economy

Jeehan V. Fernandez
2007-05-01


DEPARTMENT of Trade and Industry (DTI-Iloilo) provincial chief Diosdado Cadena yesterday said the arrival of call centers boosts Iloilo’s status as one of the “hotspots” in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) super highway.

Cadena made the assessment with the opening of call center firm TeleTech next week.

Cadena said TeleTech executives will announce the launching of the company’s 1,000-seat site during a program in Iloilo City.

TeleTech earlier planned to branch out in Iloilo City but power concerns forced them to relocate to neighboring Bacolod City.

But the big pool of competent human resources in Iloilo attracted TeleTech to hold jobs fair to hire qualified personnel to work for their Cebu and Bacolod branches.

The jobs fair eventually became the basis of the company’s decision to invest in the city.

“They (TeleTech) are impressed with the passing rate of the jobs fair here. The opening of the newest call center confirms the attractiveness of Iloilo City’s spot in the cyber-services super-hi-way in the country,” Cadena told The Daily Guardian.

“The local environment is ripe for investments in ICT-enabled services in spite of power concerns which might be addressed primarily for this sector. Mayor Jerry Treñas has assured the ICT businesses that he will prioritize access to the main line of electricity,” Cadena said.

Treñas earlier met officials of Panay Electric Co. (Peco), the sole power distributor in the metropolis, ePLDT Ventus and Callbox to address problems in electricity supply, particularly rotating brownouts in the city.

Cadena said Iloilo is part of the “cyber-services hub” in the country scaling from Baguio to Zamboanga as envisioned by the Arroyo administration’s mega-regions program.

Cadena said Iloilo has all the elements to host the booming ICT industry.

“We have complete facilities like fiber optics which is already in placed and reliable.”

Fiber optics technology involves faster data processing usually used in long distance phone calls, cable TV system and Internet.

As regards to human resources, Iloilo City, being the educational center of Western Visayas, produces some 16,000-18,000 graduates annually.

“If developed, the ICT sector particularly call centers will provide jobs to these professionals and part-time jobs for students,” said Cadena.

ICT promotions started three years ago with the establishment of Iloilo Investment and Promotion Center (IIPC) as several multi-national firms eyed the city as possible expansion site.

The soon-to-be established Iloilo Foundation for Information Technology (I-FIT) also gathered local government, industry players, academe, and government agencies for a more active ICT promotion.

Treñas said the operations of call centers in the metropolis, aside from providing jobs to the Ilonggos, also spurred economic activities.

The mayor is optimistic that the city could ultimately attract more call centers to invest here.

“We have registered a ‘hit rate’ of 17 percent which means that more applicants from Iloilo are fluent in English compared to the national hiring average rate of only three percent,” Treñas said.

“A huge pool of our human resources is also trainable,” he added.

Treñas cited the competent human resources as the main factor that attracted major players in the ICT industry to invest in Iloilo City, making the metropolis as the next call center hub outside of Manila.

“The entry of call centers will provide additional jobs which will result to more money in circulation. The restaurants, coffee shops, spas, department stores, and taxis, among others will also benefit from the spending of ICT workers. This is what economists call as the multiplier effect where many services are being benefited,” Treñas said.

The city is host to existing call centers including ePLDT Ventus, Callbox, and Echo.

Asked whether the city has enough space to host interested call centers, City Tourism Office (CTO) chief Ben Jimena said Amigo Terrace Hotel has been accredited by the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA).

Two giant malls in the city are also applying for PEZA accreditation to encourage call center locators to expand their operations here.

From : The Daily Guardian Newspaper Iloilo
i thought it's a 600-seat call center, not 1000? he he. Anyway, pila na ang capacity sang ePLDT Ventus? The assessment of Teletech will definitely make Iloilo the next big IT hub in the country. The high pool of quality and qualified human resources will outshine the higher electricity rates in the city.

^^ Told you so, it will show up and I know where they will be having their site, hehehehe!!! :D
where will the site be? Outside city proper area?

Guys, click on this link from http://www.spi-bpo.com/images/upload/about_spi/map_10.3.06.swf. Do you know where they're located at?
We are indeed luring ICT companies to set up operations in our our city.

^^ Ey, I never knew that SPI has an Iloilo branch. All I know is that one is here in Cebu (sa IT Park) for healthcare delivery.

Edit: A...ok. I checked the website and ePLDT is an investor. This might be referring to ePLDT Ventus.
addition siya sa ePLDT or separate entity siya, Bern? ePLDT Iloilo has more than 450 seating capacity as far as I know.

Oriental Wok opens

http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/05/01/oriental.wok3.jpg
Facade of Oriental Wok

The dream of four sisters to their own restaurant has finally come true with the opening of Oriental Wok at the Boardwalk last March 30.

http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/05/01/oriental.wok1.jpg
THE PARTNERS Rachel Abaldonado,
Lalaine Concel, Mahlie Gapasin and
Ruby Gapasin

Sisters Mahlie Gapasin, Lalaine Concel, Rachel Abaldonado and Ruby Gapasin basked in the presence of family and friends who were equally delighted at this feat .. and feast. The guests were treated to the wide variety of Oriental gastronomic pleasures that the restaurant offers.

http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/05/01/oriental.wok2.jpg
Lalaine Concel, Mahlie Gapasin, King,
Ruby Gapasin and Rachel Abaldonado

from: The News Today
link: http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/05/01/oriental.wok.opens.html

^^ more and more restos are opening within Smallville-Boradwalk-Diversion area !:banana:
---

pa post photos of Dinagyang from the recently concluded Aliwan Fiesta

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/202/478407977_a3fb670f56.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/198/478381116_188005b853.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/183/478397263_841c77cafa.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/195/478397261_6dafd96f72.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/171/478397235_f97bf40494.jpg

wow! ASTG a... congrats gali sa Sinulog kag Dinagyang... they're really are the Philippines' premiere festivals:)

More business establishments
join job fair in Iloilo City

ILOILO City – More business establishments joined this year's Job Fair initiated by the Iloilo City government in partnership with the private sector held at the SM City Activity Center on Monday.

The 5th Job Fair was participated in by 42 business establishments with six agencies offering career opportunities abroad, mostly for services, skilled workers and medical related fields.

The 36 other firms were locally based but extended promising careers to qualified applicants. Thousands of job seekers flocked to the fair.

"This shows that Iloilo City, aside from becoming the economic hub of Western Visayas, has developed to attain the meaningful and genuine partnership between the private and government sector. This made the job fair a success," incumbent councilor Jed Patrick Mabilog said.

Mabilog chairs the city council's Committee on Labor, Employment, Manpower Development and Placement.

Mabilog likewise expressed hopes to see a bigger job fair in the future with the emerging strong private-public private partnership in the city that will provide more opportunities to jobless Ilonggos.

The one-day job fair was facilitated by the city government's Public Employment and Services Office (PESO), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Iloilo Business Club (IBC), Haligi Foundation, SM City and ABS-CBN through its Lingkod Kapamilya Program.

IBC Executive Director Lea Lara said the event is a giant leap for what used to be a simple public service affair of the business sector.

Lara said there were only 25 participants when they first launched the job fair in 2004.

Department of Labor and Employment Regional Director Teresita Manzala lauded the organizers of the job fair held a day before the national observance of Labor Day.

She commended them for conducting other activities simultaneous with the job fair such as career orientation and employment counseling for the fresh graduates and those entering college education.

source: Panay News (http://www.panaynews.com.ph/news4.htm)

Aussie gov’t shells out $32.9M for tourism plan
By DAVID ISRAEL SINAY

ILOILO City – The Australian Agency for International Development (AusAid) extended Australian $32.9 million for the creation of the tourism master plans of two areas in the Visayas region.

Mayor Jerry Treñas said the grant will be shared by the City of Iloilo and the Province of Bohol. The Australian government's overseas aid program is a Federal Government funded program aimed on reducing poverty in developing countries.

Treñas said the City of Iloilo needs P6.5 million for the plan, P4 million for the infrastructure development plan, P3.8 million for the information technology support to regional planning and local economic development, and P2 million for the strengthening of the Metro Iloilo-Guimaras Economic Development Council organizational structure.

The City of Iloilo is already on the second phase of the program. It has already identified the needed support and diagram in order to come up with a more comprehensive tourism master plan.

The first phase amounting to P2.9 million was expended for the research and exploration of Iloilo City (P1 million), Bohol (P1 million), and the non government organization tapped by the Australian government to support the program (P900,000).

source: Panay News (http://www.panaynews.com.ph/news5.htm)

aha gian online ka wala ka nag tamwa sa YM ha. ahahah

neways as usual, nag andar na naman pagkatangadal ko.. may nawigit pa ko di nga picture sang dinagyang.. and i find it the best. bwas ko lng post kay wala ko pa ma watermark.

kabalo naman kmo... damo kawatan. ahahahaha

i just sent my article and photos for amsterdam publication. i included dinagyang sa mga photos gin submit ko. ( ssssshhhhhh... hipos lang: wala ko gin include ang sinulog!) ahahahahahahahaha

night night!!!

Jobs Fair @ SM City attracts job-seekers

The H.A.L.I.G.I. Foundation Inc., Iloilo City Government, Iloilo Business Club, ABS-CBN Iloilo and other private and public partners held a Jobs Fair at the Lower Ground Floor (near Equitable PCI Bank) of SM City Iloilo on April 30, 2007.

Thousands of job-seekers flocked to SM City to pass their resumes at the respective companies who joined the fair. Hon. Councilor Jed Patrick Mabilog welcomed the guest and participants of the event and expressed his appreciation to the different sectors and organizations who made the event possible.

Forums were simultaneously held during the event. Atty. Teresita R. Manzala , Regional Director of the Department of Labor and Employment 6, and Ms. Boobie Reyes, President of PMAP-Iloilo, were the speakers during the 11:00am to 12:00nn forum. Topics discussed were Latest Services, Projects and Programs of DOLE, Trends in Company Hiring, Important Skills/Experience Needed to give applicant and edge, Interview techniques, Power Dressing, Resume Making Tips, Important Do’s and Dont’s.

The theme of the Forum was Empowering the Labor Sector.

During the afternoon, Jobert Peñaflorida of the famous ABS-CBN morning show Sikat Ka Iloilo hosted the Career Orientation Forum. The guests were Lorena Yunque, Provincial Director of TESDA -Region VI, C/Insp. Reynaldo Calaor of NBI Iloilo Michael Tanner, Senior Operations manager of TELETECH, Dr. Kishur A. Ghanshamdas, Administrative Officer VI of the Civil Service Commission VI and Yehlen Camarista, Professional Tour Guide.

The guests shared meaningful insights about their professions and gave helpful tips to those interested to venture in similar career paths.

source: Panay News (http://www.panaynews.com.ph/news12.htm)

pa post photos of Dinagyang from the recently concluded Aliwan Fiesta

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/202/478407977_a3fb670f56.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/198/478381116_188005b853.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/183/478397263_841c77cafa.jpg

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Basta gani sa mga festivals, si Eric gid nagapanguna sa coverage. Salamat Eric for the wonderful pictures. Indi gid manigar nga lagawan ka Noy. :)

i thought it's a 600-seat call center, not 1000? he he. Anyway, pila na ang capacity sang ePLDT Ventus? The assessment of Teletech will definitely make Iloilo the next big IT hub in the country. The high pool of quality and qualified human resources will outshine the higher electricity rates in the city.


where will the site be? Outside city proper area?
I think ePLDT is more than a thousand seaters already. I'll try to surf sa net and post them later. So, amo na ini ang secret nga ginahambal ni Bernie? Another call center naman for Iloilo.

ePLDT Ventus
Callbox
Echo

and now, TELETECH

how about STI .. di ba may ara pa sila gin-mention aside from the first 3 efore?

Time for a new thread! :lock:

ILOILO : "The NeXt Big Sanctuary to Paradise" Thread XXXVI
~ Iloilo Province & Iloilo City,Philippines ~

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The Festival...
79XI_DkEh4o
Dinagyang 2007 ,Tribu Ilonganon :)

The Food...
yaJu30DLT1A
Breakthrough Restaurant Food Trip! :)

The Heritage...
gJ3JwWOQBdM
Iloilo-The Heart of the Philippines :)

The Next Big Thing!
wjytYsq3g3s
:cool:

Headlines in Iloilo, looking back at April 2007:

Commemmorated and Celebrated Holy Week, the Ilonggo way
The delayed opening of the new Iloilo Airport
Dinagyang Festival took up 2nd Place in Aliwan Festival 2007
Iloilo City as one of the 9 Philippine cities that are critical in water crisis.
The construction of "Stoplight" flyover commences.
Whole-day Blackout in Iloilo City blamed to PECO andPPC.
Sec. Gonzales to give P10,000 to Iloilo Barangay Officials who could give 12-0 votes for Team Unity that sparked up the controversial debates over "vote-buying" and arrogant stand of the official.
The release of "Iloilo: The Next Convention Destination" of ICVB and Mayad Studios
Recruitment of a BPO commences and rumored establishment of its office.
Election News
Family members compete for the local elections in the town of Sara.
If there are some headliners missing, feel free to add it.

Looking Forward

Opening of the New Iloilo Airport
Bidding of the Old Iloilo Airport
May 14 Mid Term Elections
Other Ongoing Infrastructures/Projects


Pics from Thread 35

Some random Pics from Flicker

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Pan de Azucar

Ongoing infrastructure project in Iloilo .... there's like a lot of cranes in Iloilo right now, it seems the whole city is underconstruction ... from Jaro, to La Paz, City Proper, Mandurriao, and Molo

Infante Flyover:

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Box Culvert in La Paz (Iloilo Flood Control Project)

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Bridge in Balabago, Jaro (Iloilo Flood Control Project)

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SM JARO expansion perhaps?

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other images:

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Tigbauan Poblacion. School in the foreground, a tiny bit of the church (blue) on the left, and the market with the rusty roof.

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Still somewhere in the poblacion

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Tigbauan Cemetery.. la lng...

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Forgot the name of this subdivision somewhere between Oton and Tigbauan.

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A resort I've never been to, somewhere in Oton.

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Nes and Tats, Oton

pa post photos of Dinagyang from the recently concluded Aliwan Fiesta

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Welcome to Iloilo City and Province

Thread 36

Hala Bira !

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La Muy Leal y Noble Ciudad de Iloilo - Queen City of the South - United Iloilo On The Go - Progressive Iloilo - The Next Big Thing - Princess City of the South - The Heart of the Philippines - Home of United Nation's Dinagyang Festival - Home of UNESCO World Heritage Miag-ao Fortress Church - Colossal City of the South - Metro Iloilo-Guimaras Development Council - Philippine's Heritage Champion - The Royal Metropolis - Uswag Iloilo - Western Visayas Regional Capital - Premiere City 2015

:banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana:

Aussie gov’t shells out $32.9M for tourism plan

By DAVID ISRAEL SINAY

ILOILO City – The Australian Agency for International Development (AusAid) extended Australian $32.9 million for the creation of the tourism master plans of two areas in the Visayas region.

Mayor Jerry Treñas said the grant will be shared by the City of Iloilo and the Province of Bohol. The Australian government's overseas aid program is a Federal Government funded program aimed on reducing poverty in developing countries.

Treñas said the City of Iloilo needs P6.5 million for the plan, P4 million for the infrastructure development plan, P3.8 million for the information technology support to regional planning and local economic development, and P2 million for the strengthening of the Metro Iloilo-Guimaras Economic Development Council organizational structure.

The City of Iloilo is already on the second phase of the program. It has already identified the needed support and diagram in order to come up with a more comprehensive tourism master plan.

The first phase amounting to P2.9 million was expended for the research and exploration of Iloilo City (P1 million), Bohol (P1 million), and the non government organization tapped by the Australian government to support the program (P900,000).

www.panaynews.com.ph (http://www.panaynews.com.ph/news5.htm)

Good morning ILOILO!

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Welcome to ILOILO - The Heart of the Philippines

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Thread 36

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WANTED: MIWD INVESTORS
Biz group to help solve water woes
Francis Allan L. Angelo
2007-05-02

A GROUP of Iloilo businessmen will help solve the worsening water problem besetting the Metro Iloilo Water District (MIWD) and its service area.

The Iloilo Local Economic Development Foundation (I-LED) headed by top Ilonggo business executives will tap their connections to look for investors for a bulk water supply scheme.

Also, the MIWD board welcomes proposals to privatize the water firm to make it more competitive.

The water firm earlier said they need to produce at least 19,872 cubic meters of water everyday to cater to the needs of its service area which includes Iloilo City and towns of Maasin, Cabatuan, Sta. Barbara, Oton, San Miguel, and Leganes.

The MIWD is supposed to produce 42,422 cubic meters of water daily to serve its 25,456 service connections. But its present sources – the Maasin watershed and pumping stations in San Miguel and Oton – can only provide 22,550 cubic meters.

MIWD officials blamed the summer season and structural problems at the Maasin dam as the main cause for the water shortage.

MIWD resident manager Timoteo Villaroman earlier said the water supply problem is getting worse every year.

The Iloilo City council last week passed a resolution putting the city under state of imminent calamity because of the water shortage.

In a presentation to the I-LED officers Saturday at Amigo Terrace Hotel, Engr. Edwin Reyes, MIWD interim general manager, said they are eyeing three alternative sources for the firm’s bulk water supply.

Among the areas Reyes cited is Lake Vito in Dingle and Tinagong Dagat and Ulian Rvier in Lambunao, Iloilo.

Lake Vito, which is 30 kilometers from Leganes, Iloilo, has an elevation of 44 meters above sea level.

Tinagong Dagat is 682.7 meters above sea level while Ulian River has an elevation of 173 meters.

Reyes said Ulian River can produce 5,000 liters of water per second, enough to serve 500,000 connections.

The MIWD manager said it would cost them more than P3 billion to tap the Tinagong Dagat/Ulian River.

“Because of the elevation of the said areas, the water will be flown to our treatment plant by force of gravity. There will be no pumps needed,” Reyes said.

Reyes cited the example of Cagayan de Oro water district where a businessman invested in bulk water supply.

“The investment will not drastically increase the price of water. In the case of Cagayan de Oro, the investor only charged P11 per cubic meters,” Reyes said.

The MIWD management is also eyeing private entities to handle water distribution services while the water firm will serve as bulk water supplier.

Reyes said MIWD has been discussing privatization proposals with Maynilad water which handles part of Metro Manila’s water distribution operations.

The Local Water Utilities Administration, a government agency regulating water districts in the country, can help MIWD look for potential investors, Reyes said.

I-LED president Rex Drilon, chief operating officer of Ortigas and Co., said they can tap their connections to bring financiers in Iloilo City.

Drilon said problems on water and power supply must be given attention to attract more business investors in the city.

from: The Guardian Iloilo
link: http://www.theguardianiloilo.ph/localnews0.php?id=2633

3 WVSU achievers new AdI teachers
Trisha Ferraris
2007-05-02

A MAGNA cum laude, a cum laude, and a scholar. These are the titles of the three latest entries in the already academically-sound and talent-laden Ateneo de Iloilo High School Faculty.

One thing common among them: they are all graduates of West Visayas State University (WVSU), one of the premier schools in secondary education in the country.

Menchie Libo-on is next school year’s chemistry teacher. This young angelic-looking magna cum laude graduate finished her BS in Education Major in Chemistry at WVSU. She will be filling in the shoes of Marie Eugenie Carmona who is set to take up medicine in the same school this coming school year.

“The expectations set before my shoulders are heavy; I must deliver,” former high school class salutatorian Libo-on said, adding, “Good thing chemistry (apparently known to be a complex subject) is my favorite discipline. It’s as if I already fell for it. I just hope that I can infect my students with my passion to learn the rudiments of the smaller parts of matter.”

Another neophyte in the AdI faculty stable is Ma. Lorna Desamero who majors in mathematics in her BS in Secondary Education degree, and finished her Master of Education at the University of the Philippines.

This cum laude graduate will be teaching algebra to incoming freshpersons.

A class valedictorian in high school, Desamero started her teaching career in a decade ago, bringing with her tons load of experience. Her know-how is expected to be handy when she teaches first year AdI students with varied social conditions and educational background as they usually come from different grade schools in the region.

The third recruit is Jose Nelmar Espino who was a scholar of the University Pre-Service Teacher Education Program (UPSTEP). This BS in Education Major in Biology graduate will be teaching Integrated Science to first year students.

Among his achievements is placing second in the whole WVSU College of Education in thesis making last 2005. He was also nominated as best science student teacher in the same year. Espino is also in to visual arts.

“As novice teacher of this prestigious institution, I wish to show my worth as an educator to the best way I can. If it means bending over backwards, so be it. The challenge, I know is tough. But this is Ateneo. Excellence is a must.”

Furthermore, the 5-foot-9 Espino said, “I am honored to be part of the dynamic faculty of Ateneo. I just hope that I can fit easily into the system.”

Meanwhile, a licensed electronics and communications engineer, Florimar Cloma, was tasked to temporarily take over the math chores of one math teacher who is set to enjoy her maternity leave early next school year. Cloma, who finished her bachelors degree in Central Philippine University, was a DOST scholar and is known to be a computer expert.

Another latest addition is Bro. Arthur “Errol” Nebrao, SJ. A Jesuit Regent, Nebrao will be next school year’s Campus Minister and teacher in computer, among others. He graduated his BS in Philosophy degree in Ateneo de Manila University.

To note, the high school faculty takes its pride by having the youngest, dynamic average group age of 26—all academic and leadership achievers in their college years with most of them presently taking up further studies in the different graduate schools in Iloilo City. Apparently, this has been a result of the Jesuit administrators’ arduous selection process for teachers—that includes the passing of detailed curriculum vitae; series of IQ, psychological, aptitude, and essay examinations; the sweat-pouring actual class demonstration; and the series of interviews with the principal (Mrs. Aurora dela Cruz) and the school director (Fr. Manuel Uy, SJ)./Ripples

from: The Guardian Iloilo
link: http://www.theguardianiloilo.ph/localnews0.php?id=2637
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^^ looks like Ateneo de Iloilo is already preparing for more academic challenge and battle on its imminent trnsfer to their new and bigger campus in Diversion area.

Basta gani sa mga festivals, si Eric gid nagapanguna sa coverage. Salamat Eric for the wonderful pictures. Indi gid manigar nga lagawan ka Noy. :)

I think ePLDT is more than a thousand seaters already. I'll try to surf sa net and post them later. So, amo na ini ang secret nga ginahambal ni Bernie? Another call center naman for Iloilo.

ePLDT Ventus
Callbox
Echo

and now, TELETECH

how about STI .. di ba may ara pa sila gin-mention aside from the first 3 before?
ePLDT Ventus ILOILO is currently a 450-seating capacity call center. Expansion is ongoing at present but no exact data on how many additional seats will be available in few months' time. Latest article suggests that 1-1,200 seats is targetted by the end of the year.

I have a mouthful to say about the current situation of our beloved city. I was only there for 3 days but I've seen a lot of things - good and bad. I'll probably do it on the next thread. Patapos na abi.... :)
I would really love to hear what you are about to say regarding Iloilo City's development, oboi. Are we getting worst or are we moving forward?

Call centers propel Iloilo’s economy
Jeehan V. Fernandez
2007-05-01

DEPARTMENT of Trade and Industry (DTI-Iloilo) provincial chief Diosdado Cadena yesterday said the arrival of call centers boosts Iloilo’s status as one of the “hotspots” in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) super highway.

Cadena made the assessment with the opening of call center firm TeleTech next week.

Cadena said TeleTech executives will announce the launching of the company’s 1,000-seat site during a program in Iloilo City.

TeleTech earlier planned to branch out in Iloilo City but power concerns forced them to relocate to neighboring Bacolod City.

But the big pool of competent human resources in Iloilo attracted TeleTech to hold jobs fair to hire qualified personnel to work for their Cebu and Bacolod branches.

The jobs fair eventually became the basis of the company’s decision to invest in the city.

“They (TeleTech) are impressed with the passing rate of the jobs fair here. The opening of the newest call center confirms the attractiveness of Iloilo City’s spot in the cyber-services super-hi-way in the country,” Cadena told The Daily Guardian.

“The local environment is ripe for investments in ICT-enabled services in spite of power concerns which might be addressed primarily for this sector. Mayor Jerry Treñas has assured the ICT businesses that he will prioritize access to the main line of electricity,” Cadena said.

Treñas earlier met officials of Panay Electric Co. (Peco), the sole power distributor in the metropolis, ePLDT Ventus and Callbox to address problems in electricity supply, particularly rotating brownouts in the city.

Cadena said Iloilo is part of the “cyber-services hub” in the country scaling from Baguio to Zamboanga as envisioned by the Arroyo administration’s mega-regions program.

Cadena said Iloilo has all the elements to host the booming ICT industry.

“We have complete facilities like fiber optics which is already in placed and reliable.”

Fiber optics technology involves faster data processing usually used in long distance phone calls, cable TV system and Internet.

As regards to human resources, Iloilo City, being the educational center of Western Visayas, produces some 16,000-18,000 graduates annually.

“If developed, the ICT sector particularly call centers will provide jobs to these professionals and part-time jobs for students,” said Cadena.

ICT promotions started three years ago with the establishment of Iloilo Investment and Promotion Center (IIPC) as several multi-national firms eyed the city as possible expansion site.

The soon-to-be established Iloilo Foundation for Information Technology (I-FIT) also gathered local government, industry players, academe, and government agencies for a more active ICT promotion.

Treñas said the operations of call centers in the metropolis, aside from providing jobs to the Ilonggos, also spurred economic activities.

The mayor is optimistic that the city could ultimately attract more call centers to invest here.

“We have registered a ‘hit rate’ of 17 percent which means that more applicants from Iloilo are fluent in English compared to the national hiring average rate of only three percent,” Treñas said.

“A huge pool of our human resources is also trainable,” he added.

Treñas cited the competent human resources as the main factor that attracted major players in the ICT industry to invest in Iloilo City, making the metropolis as the next call center hub outside of Manila.

“The entry of call centers will provide additional jobs which will result to more money in circulation. The restaurants, coffee shops, spas, department stores, and taxis, among others will also benefit from the spending of ICT workers. This is what economists call as the multiplier effect where many services are being benefited,” Treñas said.

The city is host to existing call centers including ePLDT Ventus, Callbox, and Echo.

Asked whether the city has enough space to host interested call centers, City Tourism Office (CTO) chief Ben Jimena said Amigo Terrace Hotel has been accredited by the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA).

Two giant malls in the city are also applying for PEZA accreditation to encourage call center locators to expand their operations here.

From : The Daily Guardian Newspaper Iloilo
If this will be the case, then Teletech will be the biggest call center service provider in Iloilo. When are they going to start their operation? And where? With 1000 seating capacity, any area where this call center will be located will definitely increase commercial activity. Imagine having 1,000 people or more 24/7? Wow !


DPWH assures completion of Iloilo flood-control project

By ANGIE CHUI

ILOILO CITY — Local officials have lauded the initiative of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in embarking on the ambitious Iloilo Flood Control Project, a R4.26-billion worth endeavor to address the problem of perennial flooding in the province.

Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas said the project is vital to the economic growth of the province as the area floods easily even at the earliest hints of rain.

"We have long been asking for this project. I think it was back in 1995 when I was just a councilor when it originated," he said.

Treñas said the project has a very huge economic impact for the people as commercial activities have always fallen victim to floods which affect almost 50 percent of the city. "After heavy rains, areas in Jaro, portions of Mandaue and La Paz are the most severely affected. One time, even my own house was submerged in neck high flooding."

The mayor said that he is optimistic that the project will definitely resolve the flooding problem and undoubtedly increase real estate value and appraisal in the city. He recalled during the planning stages that the project was almost cancelled by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) from which the loan was sourced, but an outpouring of requests came to his office.

"Resolutions, community organizations, urban poor groups, and businessmen continued to flood my office, saying that the project cannot be cancelled," Treñas recalled, saying that even now, in anticipation of the project’s completion in February, 2009, real estate values have increased greatly as investments keep pouring into the province.

He also disclosed that during one of his recent meetings with President Arroyo, she assured the funding for the second stage of the project will be provided for in the budget so there is no reason to put the flood control inititive on hold.

Meanwhile, Pavia Mayor Arcadio Gorriceta welcomed the implementation of the flood control project saying it is among the biggest contributors to the economy.

"When it rains in these parts, the water rises fast at an alarming level. Vehicles from the interior towns cannot enter the city and the entire economic activities are paralyzed," he said.

According to Region 6 Director Rolando Asis, Package 1 of the project, involving the construction of the Jaro Floodway, improvement of the Tigum River and improvement of the Aganan River, which was undertaken by Hanjin Heavy Industries and Construction Co., was completed in March last year several days ahead of schedule.

Package 2, which entails the improvement of the Iloilo River, improvement of the Upper Ingore Creek, and improvement of both banks of Jaro River Mouth, was awarded to the China International Water and Electrical Corp., and began in February, 2006. It is now proceeding ahead of schedule and is seen to contribute to flood mitigation, especially with the onset of the three-month La Niña phenomenon at the later part of this month.

Meanwhile, Project Manager engineer Jerome Borjal assured that the project will be completed within the prescribed period before the JICA loan expires in September, 2010.

"With regard to operations, we still have give or take, one more good month before the La Niña, but even so, we will still proceed with the project, albeit slow down our operations a bit."

He said that the project, even if it is just halfway completed, will serve its purpose and is expected to mitigate flooding in the city during the coming rainy months. "Even more so when it is completed," he said confidently.

www.mb.com.ph (http://www.mb.com.ph/PROV2007050193002.html)
Very nice development and assurance given to all Ilonggos. The project will not only raise land value of the city and its neighbouring but economic activities will be increased as well.

DA 6 hosts national GMA corn program review
James Earl E. Ogatis
2007-05-01

THE Department of Agriculture (DA)-6 recently hosted a three-day national Ginintuang Masaganang Ani (GMA) corn program review and planning workshop at Punta Villa Resort, Iloilo City.

The activity assessed the performance of the first cropping season (January to June 2007); identify the bottlenecks and problems encountered in the implementation of the program; and finalize plans and programs for the second cropping (July to December 2007) season.

Assistant Secretary for Field Operations Dennis B. Araullo said the increase in production must be translated into profitability of the corn farmers.

“We must teach our corn farmers to become farmer-entrepreneurs who are not only concerned on increase production but of the total profitability and adoption of new technology,” he said

Araullo further said corn program is measurable because it is area, target, market and intervention specific.

Thus a target national growth rate of 13.7 percent or a total production of 837,000 metric tons can be achieved with the support of all program implementers.

OIC-Regional Executive Director Larry P. Nacionales said Western Visayas has attained a 26.43 percent production growth rate – 28.80 percent and 26.95 percent for both yellow and white corns, respectively.

For yellow corn, Region 6 was 58.70 percent self-sufficient with a production of 200,227 mt from a 74,124-hectare area.

“We are hoping to attain 62 percent self sufficiency and produce 252,852 mt in a total area of 84,284 hectares this year,” said Nacionales.

Dir. Nacionales further said the GMA corn program has supervised three mixing plant and distributed 1,850 packets of bio-N, 3,500 trichogramma cards, and 2,000 information, education and communication (IEC) materials region-wide.

Some successful corn farmers in the region include Florita C. Villanueva of San Dionisio, Iloilo with an average production of 8.2 mt/ha; Myrna Reyes of Passi City – 7.5 mt/ha; Ma. Bernadette Barrios of Concepcion – 6.0mt/ha; Rolando Juarez of Cauayan, Negros Occidental and Manny Delleva of Murcia, Neg. Occ. – 6.5mt/ha; Locsito Bartosillo and Jaime Enero of Cuartero, Capiz – 5.0mt/ha; Gorgonio Tacuyan and Concepcion Nermal of Culasi, Antique with – 5.0mt/ha respectively.

The sixteen regional corn coordinators presented their first quarter accomplishment reports in comparison with their target setting and finalized their second cropping production targets and program intervention as well as formulated the 2008 annual production targets. (JEEO/RAFID 6)

from: The Daily Guardian Iloilo
link: http://www.theguardianiloilo.ph/agri.php