^^ ^^
Thanks for the explanation totopurz. So there is more than enough power to tap pa gali and yet we are being forced to accept coal power :ohno: :ohno:

Coal power plant is not the answer. Look at the typical load profile of Iloilo City, presented below:

http://i122.photobucket.com/albums/o271/totopurz/renewable%20energy/Typicalloadprofile.jpg

Iloilo City demand peaks from 9am to 8pm at around 70MW but baseload demand (meaning our basic demand 24 hours a day) is only about 40MW. Now what happens if we allow the 100 MW PPC-Metrobank coal power plant in Lapuz, Lapaz, Iloilo City?

Please remember that a coal power plant is a baseload plant that runs 24 hours a day and 7 days a week for several months. Unlike a diesel engine or gas turbine that can be switched on and off in split seconds, coal power plants takes at least several hours for firing and start-up.

So Iloilo City will be awashed with electricity - imagine 100MW in the system when demand at any time will be only from 40MW to 70MW. Some questions to ask, are: is this not wasteful and inefficient? and more importantly, who will pay for the excess electricity?

They could always say that they will sell the excess electricity to other distribution utilities (electric coops) in the Negros-Panay Grid. An important issue to consider is the inefficiency of the energy sector. Our main problem now is not shortage but over-supply.

http://i122.photobucket.com/albums/o271/totopurz/renewable%20energy/powersectorsituationpergrid.jpg


We have so much dependable electricity in the system and yet we are experiencing brown-outs, why? The problem is Inefficiency! This should be immediately addressed for Iloilo to be the next big thing, otherwise will be a tremendous flop!



As of the moment, I do not fully understand the whole thing, but isn't it that their extra charge in our electric bills which is very much overpriced can be considered economic sabotage?

Another order in the 2005 ERC Decision is for Peco to refund consumers P2.89billion for overcharging. This wala pa ginatuman sang Peco. How can we move our city public officials to address this issue? Pabayaan ta lang sa Peco utang nila P2.89 bilyon sa aton, kon cunsumer gani indi kabayad utdan dayon nila kuntador.

We know it would be hard for Peco operations to draw out P2.89 billion to pay consumers. This could cripple Peco's capacity to deliver services but there is a suggestion to transform the P2.89 billion into consumers equity in Peco stocks. Consumers can then be represented in the decision-making body of Peco making it a combination of corporate-consumers cooperative. Consumers interests in the Peco Board could temper or minimize the purely profit motive of its present set-up.

We hope to discuss several other options in this thread, let's all help address this issue please.

^^ For ecological and economical perspective, I'm really not for coal.

There are so many options and why coal? Capitalistic malpractices again? :ohno:
Coal is so "old school".

Floodway project hits snag anew
By DAVID ISRAEL SINAY

ILOILO City – As the rainy season sets in and residents here prepare for the perennial flooding, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) announced there might be another delay in the implementation of the Iloilo Flood Control Project (IFCP).
...
The implementation of the project shall necessitates(:bash:) traversing the middle of an existing subdivision in Jaro district. The property owner is seeking compensation for damages that will be wrought on his subdivision.
...
Docketed as civil Case No. 06-29100, the DPWH filed expropriation proceedings on the properties of Alathea Senense, Pacific Rehouse Corporation (PRC), Florentino Diana, and the Philippine Estates Corporation (PEC) to “condemn” the property that shall be affected by the project “for public use upon payment of just compensation.”
...
A subdivision was developed in the area, prior to the implementation of the floodway project.

In their answer, the property owners seek a total damage payment of P2,598,661,688.

source: Panay News (http://www.panaynews.com.ph/top%20story1.htm)
Whoa!:eek2:

Are they talking about Chateux Geneva, a component of Jaro Grand Estates? >( I have been raising an eyebrow since they began building Chateaux Geneva beside our subdivision several years ago because I knew it was either on the way, or right beside the Floodway Zone since I saw this map in the Vice-mayor's office in 2002 (floodway in green):

http://img516.imageshack.us/img516/3350/092720020082sc0.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

I supposed the floodway will just cross the access road which connects Chateaux Geneva to the circumferential road. It's quite long anyway:
http://img519.imageshack.us/img519/1985/1007130sn4.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

I wondered if they will just replace the road with a bridge once the floodway is done. However, when the floodway construction commenced near the area, I started scratching my head since it started to appear like it was actually going to cross the new subdivision.

With this news, I really worry about the government spending precious (loaned) money compensating PEC, the developer. That's P2.6B!


I find it quite weird why the developer would build the subdivision right there. Yes, the area was developed before the implementation of the Flood Control Project BUT, the government's plan for the project was already there and the city even zoned the area before they started construction!:ohno:

Well, I'm not 100% sure Chateaux Geneva is indeed the subdivision being referred to in the news, but it is the only subdivision in the area which I know is developed by PEC. Did PEC not know about the Flood Control Project? Was the city gov't not aware someone was constructing a subdivision there? Is buy-develop-expropriate profitable?

It's only P2.6B. That's a measly 52,000 houses for Gawad Kalinga.

MIWD inaugurates new
water treatment plant

ILOILO City -- Metro Iloilo Water District (MIWD), the water provider of Metro Iloilo and its neighboring towns, has inaugurated its rapid sand filter, a treatment plant facility in Maasin town.

The treatment facility will help improve the quality of water being distributed in the municipalities of Maasin and Cabatuan.

MIWD Board of Director Tom Villaroman said about 2,500 concessionaries from these municipalities have been complaining the turbid water.

With the new facility, Villaroman assured better quality of the water that they will be distributing to concessionaries.

The construction of the facility was funded through the P207-million fund earmarked by the MIWD for the rehabilitation of old lines and improvement of its water sources.

It was a loan package obtained from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) with a P21-million equity from the water district’s corporate fund.

source: Panay News (http://www.panaynews.com.ph/top%20story5.htm)

Phase 2 of business permits
streamlining project set

ILOILO City – The second phase in a series of workshops under the Streamlining Business Registration Procedure (SBRP) project to be implemented by the city will be conducted on July 24 at the Sarabia Manor Hotel here.

The SBRP is a collaboration between the Department of Trade, Central Philippine University and Industry and the German Technical Cooperation (GTZ).

An earlier public forum on the improvement and documentation of business registration procedures was held last March 20 and was attended by various stakeholders from the private and government sectors.

The forum was contrived to solicit comments and observations regarding the streamlining of business permits processing and to present the suggested flow chart for new business investors and individuals who will process renewal of business licenses.

“The second phase will now be a workshop to identify the particular flow and work units in the actual implementation of the improvement measures as suggested by the stakeholders during the first meeting,” Mayor Jerry Treñas said.

Those invited to the workshop are city offices that handle business permit registration procedures like the treasurer’s, business permits and licensing, planning and development, administrator’s, bureau of fire safety and protection offices, barangay centers and the executive assistants authorized by Treñas to sign the business permits in the mayor’s behalf.

“The lecturer will also orient the participants regarding International Standards Organization (ISO) requirements needed to be implemented for us to qualify to this level, since being ISO certified means that we have attained a high quality of service,” Treñas further stated.

source: Panay News (http://www.panaynews.com.ph/top%20story8.htm)

Iloilo Provincial Board sets
direction for next three years

ILOILO -- The 13-member Provincial Board, led by Vice Gov. Rolex Suplico, laid down the plans for their three-year incumbency.

The members of the 9th Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Iloilo agreed to focus on what’s best for their constituents.

Vice-governor Suplico enjoined the board's support to exercise their functions as overseers of the transactions being contracted by the provincial government.

For his part, majority Floor Leader Arthur Defensor Jr. said the new Iloilo airport should serve as a stepping stone to improve the province's agriculture, social welfare, infrastructure, education, cooperatives and hospital conditions.

Defensor said whatever opportunities available should be welcomed as the airport gives the province a clear picture of what it will become in the future.

Defensor gained the support of his fellow board member Jun Mondejar.

Like Defensor, Mondejar wants the provincial board to focus on social welfare, health, education and infrastructures.

The present Iloilo provincial board is composed mostly of new players coming from previous posts as chief executives of various local government units.

source: Panay News (http://www.panaynews.com.ph/top%20story6.htm)

Jover is Iloilo's young designer for 2007
By Kathy M. Villalon

http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/07/12/jover1.jpg
Neny Dawn Jover and model

The verdict is out. The latest young designer to surface in Iloilo City is Neny Dawn Jover.

http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/07/12/jover5.jpg
The designs of Jover

This Hotel and Restaurant Management student bested two others when she became the grand winner in the Robinsons Design Lab Grand Finals held last July 4.

Her collection was inspired by water. During dawn, water comes in the shades of blue, plum and pink, according to Jover.

http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/07/12/jover3.jpg
Design of Alfred
Jor-El Espina

She received P10,000 cash, a junior membership in the Designers Guild of Iloilo City, one year membership in Winners Gym and some packages from Karat World.

http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/07/12/jover4.jpg
Design of Paulo
Benito Tugbang

The two contenders were Paulo Benito Tugbang and Alfred Jor-El Espina, whose collections were extraordinary as well.

They were judged by Manila-based and award-winning designers Tina Daniac (Concours Internationale des Jeune Creature du Mode) and Gian Romano (Mega's Young Designer of the Year, London and New York trained), Iloilo's bad boy of fashion Bo Parcon (one of Metropolitan Museum's Terno designer awardee), Robinsons Land Corporation Head Nilo Mapa and Mega's fashion editor Patrick Ty.

http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/07/12/jover2.jpg
The judges are Tina Daniac,
Gian Romano, Bo Parcon, Mapa and
Patrick Ty.

Their models were made-up by Nonoy Mosquera and Benjie Sevilla. Paul Chiongson and Picture City documented the event in pictures.

source: The News Today (http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/07/12/jover.is.iloilos.young.designer.for.2007.html)

Embracing Football: The sport has become a gateway to a better life for kids
By Nestor P. Burgos Jr.

http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/07/12/football1.jpg

BAROTAC NUEVO, ILOILO--Children of this town learn to play football many years before they get to wear football shoes.

Only 11 years old, Alena Rose Araneta has been playing the sport for several years and is a member of the town's 11-and-under girl's football team.

Her father, Lurix Araneta, was a member of the national team from 1976-1983. Her brother Ian plays forward with the Philippine Air Force team.

This town, 30 km northeast of Iloilo City with a population of around 46,000, has produced batches upon batches of football players earning it the title "Football Capital of the Philippines."

In a basketball-crazed country, football is not just a sport but a passion for Barotacnons.

http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/07/12/football2.jpg
Alena Rose Araneta and father Lurix
during a training at the National Football
Training Center in Barotac Nuevo

Residents of this town are not going gaga over basketball superstars Shaquille O'Neal or Kobe Bryant. Kids here instead dream of football stars Ronaldinho (Gaucho) and Ronaldo (Luiz Nazario da Silva) both of Brazil and David Beckham of England.

Parents take pride in children who play the sport especially those who have been recruited to the national team or drafted into the Army and Air Force teams.

For many, excelling in the sport means free tuition in college and a chance to be in the national limelight.

"It has become a gateway to a better life for kids here," said Pablito Araneta, general secretary of the Philippine Football Federation, which groups around 35 football associations in the country.

Araneta said the town has become the main source of players for the national team since the 1970s.

"At one time 15 of the 20 players in the national team were Barotacnons," said engineer Duffie Botavara, general secretary of the Iloilo Football Association and the Barotac Nuevo Football Club.

It is also the main source of collegiate players of the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP).

Their love and mastery of the sport comes with the early training, opportunity to play and exposure to the sport.

Botavara said children in elementary school are taught the basics of the sport like knowing the rules, how it is played and basic skills like ball dribbling. The children, group in teams of four or five players, also engage in "scrimmage" or practice games.

Many children are also part of "Kasimbulan" an ongoing national football development program of the Football Federation of the Philippines (FFP) for children aged 6-12 years old.

In this program, football associations and clubs teach football in schools, train teachers, hold tournaments and select a pool of players for further training.

Potential players also get valuable exposure in competitions joined by teams from all over the country and from players who come here to train.

Football has come a long way when the sport was first introduced to this town in the 1920s by the Monfort brothers.

The brothers embraced the sport while studying at the Colegio de San Agustin (now University of San Agustin) in Iloilo City where it was played by the friars.

Though introduced by young men from a prominent family, football ultimately became the town's passion regardless of social status.

Most Barotacnons are "football literate" or are familiar with the rules and how to play the game. Players who play below par get criticized by their townmates.

"Most people here, kids and the elderly, know what an offside is," said Araneta, referring to a form of violation committed by an offensive player.

Botavara said familiarity with the rules is essential in developing and sustaining interest in the game.

"Football is not as fast-paced as basketball. Many times the game ends without a goal being scored and if you do not know how it is played, you'd easily get bored," he said.

He said this could also be the reason why the number one sport in the world is not that as popular to Filipinos compared to basketball.

"We're still a basketball country and it's only in Barotac Nuevo and in other few areas in the country that football has a following," said Botavara.

Araneta said the town has a key role in bring the sport to a higher level and achieving the strategic goals of the PFF.

Barotac Nuevo is home to the P10-million National Football Training Center at Barangay Tabucan put up by the Federation Internationale de Football (Fifa) and PFF in 2003.

The three-hectare football center, the only one in the country, has a dormitory that can accommodate 30 persons for trainings and lectures. The center also hosts courses for coaches and officials.

With the Philippines now ranked 170th in the world and 7th in Southeast Asia, the PFF aims to be more competitive and be in the top four teams in Southeast Asia by 2009 and among the top 16 in Asia in 2015.

Araneta said the key is to strengthen football associations and local programs. "That's where everything starts," he said.

But he said a main hindrance is the lack of equipment and funding for the programs for players and coaches.

Kids who cannot afford a pair of football shoes costing at least P1,500 play barefoot.

Botavara recounted what has become a traditional practice of players from the Southridge School, an exclusive and elite school for boys.

After every tournament, the players of Southridge leave their football shoes and donate these to Barotacnon children.

While the passion for the sport may defy the limitations, Barotacnons hope that this enthusiasm may be matched by government support.

source: The News Today (http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/07/12/embracing.football.the.sport.has.become.a.gateway.to.a.better.life.for.kids.html)

Follow-up on the Iloilo Park that will be constructed in Stockton, CA. I hope our city government will reciprocate this gesture.


http://www.miravite.com/final_Iloilo_Sister_City_Park.jpg

great plan soul! is this project started already?

Molo District, Mandurriao District and the Distant Jaro District (Aerial)http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/6/photos/48/orig/9/P1130369.JPG?et=WWwa5TlpVqaCMGzSNFNVGg

may new thread pala tayo! nice!:)

'nynx, para lang ini sa fashion trend sa Iloilo. :)

There is still the original thread (ILOILO - The NeXt Big Overture to Innovation - T37 )

may new thread pala tayo! nice!:)

Ano naman rainy season fashion forecast sa Iloilo?

This was the summer fashion last summer hambal sa mga Ilonggo fashion gurus....

Summer Fashion Forecasts

Three designers reveal what's “in” during the summer season. Not dressing down for comfort but rather dressing stylishly for comfort.


BO PARCON

Summer wear for 2007 is like looking at the future. The look is sharp and deceptively simple. The cut will be tampered by fluid fabrics and a flash of bare skin. To exude romance, hues will be muted for the evening and brights and pastels for day wear.


JASMINE CASTELO

Graphics and printed designs are in, according to Castelo. Floral or botanical prints will look great on ladies. Sportswear is also back, but this time, it's with a twist of metallic.


JAKI PEÑALOSA

For the summer of 2007, white and bright colors like yellow, green, orange and blue will be sizzling. Soft cotton fabrics will overflow as they balance simplicity and the need to conquer the heat. Femininity will rule this season in the form of bows, ribbons, belts and floral embroideries. Finish your whole summer get-up with trendy sandals or flats and bangles. To add a touch of flair, bead accessories, can complete the perfect summer look for any chic Ilongga.


Link : http://thenewstoday.info/2007/05/03/summer.fashion.forecasts.html

I noticed that since last year, the fashion industry in the city is restless. It seems that the younger generation of Ilonggo Fashion designers is speeding up in developing new fashion concepts.

I hope someday we will be called the "Fashion Capital" of the Philippines.

To see more creation of one of the Ilonggo designers - check this http://jakipenalosa.multiply.com/ - Jake Penalosa's Multiply account.


nahh na notice ko ni 2 years ago pa.. sa wow philippines jaki penalosa and bo parcon and otherleadig ilonggo designers had a fashion show at the clamshell re-inventing the theilonggo pride we all call "patadyong"

twas a wonderful show. a well attended, in fact.

From :
Philippines Guide
For Locals, Expats and tourists in the Philippines.

Iloilo City: Great Vacation with a Growing Economy

Iloilo City, Philippines, was a center of commerce and trade way back in the Spanish and American colonial periods. The locals are known to be a people who are polite and calm in speech. You’ll find that the people of Iloilo City to be tender and warm to guests and visitors.

When you get to Iloilo City, one of the first things you’ll notice is that when you speak to some of the locals they would often just smile at you. That doesn’t mean they don’t understand you or they think you’re funny, it’s just that the locals are generally shy. When you speak to them in English, there are those who would respond in English since Ilongos (Iloilo natives) are well educated and can speak more than one language.

The people in Iloilo City are generally very friendly and would walk an extra mile to help a stranger. Just be aware that Iloilo City also has its own host of scoundrels — so it’s a good advice to be careful too.

Historically speaking, Iloilo City was an agricultural center back in the colonial days. Agricultural produce like sugar, mangoes, and bananas were exported from Iloilo.

Nowadays, Iloilo City is a huge source of manpower in the Philippines. The manpower in Iloilo City is classified under multi-skilled workers. The people here are also multi-lingual. You will find that workers would speak in the native Hiligaynon, but would speak English at work. Other languages or dialects spoken in Iloilo City include Tagalog and Kinaray-a. Iloilo City is also known as a source of the finest embroidery in the Philippines.

Iloilo City is very much alive with a host of various festivities. Some of the most notable festivals in Iloilo City are the Dinagyang Festival, Paraw-Regatta, the Fireworks Display, and the Feast of Our Lady of Candles.

The Dinagyang Festival is a lively cultural event in Iloilo City. It commemorates the Christianization of Iloilo City natives and is celebrated every fourth weekend of January. You’ll be treated to a colorful parade, a dramatization of the patron saint Sto. Nino, and a celebration of drums and shouts of “Hala Bira” by tribe members.

Iloilo City is also a host to an annual fireworks display competition. This is in conjunction with the Arevalo district fiesta and is held every third Sunday of January.

Iloilo City is also the site of the oldest golf course in the Philippines located at Sta. Barbara. Water activities are also commonplace that include offshore fishing, swimming, scuba diving, and water skiing.

Hotel accommodations in Iloilo City have an average price range of $18 to $100 depending on the hotel you’ll be staying in. The plane trip to Iloilo would have an average cost of Php 2,000 to Php 4,000 depends if you travel first class or economy and so forth. Airlines in the Philippines usually give discounts.

Iloilo City provides an experience of a really valuable vacation. It’s a pleasurable dive into a cultural hospitality that is unique to its people. Iloilo City is also a budding economic region with a competitive manpower that may well boost its economy.


Hotels in Iloilo Cityposted

Hotels in Iloilo City can be found almost on top of each other. They are right beside or just a couple of blocks from each other. When competition’s everywhere, seldom is there a busy season. The off-season seems to happen all-year round. That can be both good and bad for guests who book their stay there.

The good part is that these hotels are CHEAP! There are a lot of package deals available, ranging from a weekend package with complementary breakfast for Php 3,000.00, to an overnight stay for only Php 1,250.00 per person. Offers are anything and everything that they can think of to make their prices cheaper than the competition.

These hotels have really nice rooms. Beds are tidy and there are always fresh sheets. You get cable TV and those little single-serving soaps, shampoo and conditioners, and shower caps in your bathroom. Yup, and you can just toss them in your bags too… single serving toiletries are so adorable, you just want to keep them rather than use them. Admit it, when we travel, we bring our own soaps and shampoos anyway. But it is curious that in some hotels, you also get a tiny bottle of bath foaming gel, and there’s no tub in the bathroom! That’s a little funny but, what the heck, we’d just toss that bottle in our luggage too!

Another good thing about it is that the staff really cares about you. The doorman will always greet you with a “Have a nice day ma’am” or a “Take care sir”. You call room service and they’re at your door in less than 5 minutes. Ask for an extra chair, you got. Ask for cold water in a pitcher, they’d bring it in no time. The staff is so friendly and helpful. And if you don’t speak Ilonggo (the native tongue in the city), it doesn’t matter. They can understand the typical Tagalog from Manila and, this is so endearing, they speak beautiful English. Well, connecting with the staff is no problem at all.

And the breakfast is awesome! You’ll really get that Pinoy experience with the tapsilog, tosilog, hotsilog, and all other meat-egg-fried rice combinations that you can find in Filipino homes. You can even get daing or dried fish with your fried garlic rice and sunny-side up eggs. There’s an array fresh fruits to choose from and the mangoes are so sweet!

Now, we’ll go to the bad parts. If you’re alone, the food situation is difficult. The only meal that you can get for a single guest is the breakfast. Turns out, the restaurants and food services in these hotels only make family style portions during lunch and dinner… that’s food for 3-4 people! And we all know that one of the joys of staying in a hotel is ordering room service. And when you’re getting platters of food when you’re only eating for one, it’s not very appetizing. Another bad detail is that there’s no internet access in most of these hotels. So if you’re traveling for business, that’s really inconvenient.

Hotels in Iloilo City are a dime a dozen. That’s both good and bad for the traveler in us. Though there are issues such as the lack of internet access and the family-sized food portions, the people, price and ambiance are worth having the hotel experience in the old city of Iloilo.


Site: http://www.philippinesinsider.com/

http://www.unlawyer.net/photos/ipap-photos/An%20overhead%20view%20of%20the%20departure%20hall%20of%20the%20new%20Iloilo%20Airport.jpg
Photo by: Unlawyer.net

For more New Iloilo Airport pictures, click the link below:
http://www.unlawyer.net/photos/?a=the-new-iloilo-airport

nice updates! Keep 'em coming !

The Saviour International Hospital expansion looks grand and I'm really looking forward to it. By the looks of it, they'll going to reclaim some land on its right side and nabakal na nila siguro ang lupa nga iban sa pihak nga gilid nila. It's not the big structure kung tan-awon mo. I think they have enough space gid for this expansion kay bati ko some lots surrounding the hospital, nabakal na nila. Plus the fact that the Carpenter's Bridge is due for expansion as well so timing gid ini. Another growth area within the city. Molo will see more business growth. Amo na nga damo suki ang Andoks kag Chowking sa Molo tungod sa SIH. Damo nagapa-deliver sang pagkaon from these two foodstores.
Cool and nice renderings.

Guys:

I just recently opened two threads in Photogtaphy, Heritage and Architecture Forum as I deemed it necessary to share the rising arts and fashion industry happening in Iloilo recently. I've posted only a bit of info there at present, however, I'll try to retrieve some more articles and photos from online paper archives and post them all there. I'll try to update the threads from time to time as well but it would be great indeed if you post and visit our new threads, too. Thanks.

new threads:

Iloilo's Thriving Fashion Industry

and

The Iloilo Arts Exhibits.
I'll visit them all tomorrow migs. :)

8 from WV chosen as Ford International Fellows

FIVE teachers, two lawyers and a journalist from Western Visayas were recently chosen as Ford Foundation International Fellows to pursue graduate studies leading to master and doctorate degrees. Their fellowship will commence in the third quarter of 2008.

They are Liby Norman Limoso, Mary Obeta Villareal, Lucille Arcedas, Ma. Aleta Nuñez, Danny Valenzuela, Karen Marie Thelma Jesena, Eric Divinagracia and Ma. Diosa Labiste.

They were among the eighth batch of fellows chosen from applicants all over the country to receive study grants under the Ford Foundation International Fellowships Program (IFP).

The fellows were chosen for their excellent academic qualifications, leadership potential and track record in community or public service. They may enroll in schools anywhere in the world, including the Philippines.

The Philippine Social Science Council (PSSC), an independent organization of social science association, research centers and institutions in the country, administers the International Fellowships Program. In Western Visayas, the University of San Agustin Coordinating Center for Research and Publications serves as the IFP regional office.

Jigger Latoza, the regional partner representative in Western Visayas for IFP said the region has the biggest number of recipients of the fellowships in the country for two years now. Last year, seven applicants from the region made it.

He said the eight IFP fellows have stood out for their social commitment, leadership and academic achievement. The fellows, along with nine others, were first endorsed by the regional office to the national office, which conducted panel interviews and tests. Those who passed the national screening were subsequently endorsed to the Ford Foundation central office in New York, which made the final selection. There were 59 applicants for the 2008 fellowships from Western Visayas.

Limoso, who hails from Tuburan, Lambunao, is a fine arts instructor from the University of San Agustin, Iloilo. He has conducted art workshop and lectures among school children in Iloilo City together with Museo Iloilo and the Iloilo City government. He plans to pursue a master’s degree in fine arts major in sculpture.

Villareal is assistant professor of English at the University of the Philippines in the Visayas. She has an undergraduate course in Comparative Literature and a graduate degree in English language teaching. She wants to study Literary Linguistics for her Ph.D.

A native of Kabankalan, Negros Occidental, Arcedas teaches college algebra, statistics, geometry and basic mathematics at Colegio San Agustin, Bacolod. She is active in church activities as a member of the Legion of Mary. She wants to earn a master’s degree in Statistics.

Nuñez, a lawyer, works with the provincial legal office of Negros Occidental and teaches law at the University of St. La Salle in Bacolod. She finished her baccalaureate and law degree at the University of the Philippines, Diliman. She wants to pursue a master’s degree in Environmental Law.

Valenzuela is a lawyer and part-time lecturer at the College of Law in the University of San Agustin. He is the director of the university-based Center for Alternative Law, a human rights center and legal clinic. He wants to earn a Master of Laws degree in public service law or human rights.

Jesena heads the Iloilo Integrated School in Mandurriao, Iloilo City where she oversees the pre-school and elementary departments of the school. She wants to earn a Master of Science in Education degree with focus on early childhood and special education.

Divinagracia is a teacher and coordinator of the Center for Culture and the Arts of the University of San Agustin. He has staged and coordinated plays, concerts, exhibits and arts competition and gave workshops on culture and the arts. He wants to earn a Master of Arts in Arts Management degree.

Labiste is a correspondent of the Philippine Daily Inquirer and a part-time journalism lecturer at the University of San Agustin. She is a journalism trainer for campus and community journalists and officer of the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines. She will pursue a Ph.D. in Media Studies.

The call for applications for the 2009 Ford Foundation IFP will soon be made. For more information, please contact Prof. Jigger Latoza, regional IFP partner for Western Visayas, University of San Agustin, Iloilo City, at telefax (033) 3377716 or through email ( research@usa.edu.phThis e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it ).

from: The Iloilo Daily Guardian
link: http://www.theguardianiloilo.ph/

Brgy launches wall news
for flood control project

ILOILO City – Barangay officials of flood-prone Balabago and its surrounding communities will launch its wall news as an Information, Education, Communication (IEC) Strategy in support of the Iloilo Flood control project (IFCP), on July 19, 2 p.m. at the Bgy. Balabago Elementary School.

The launching will be followed by a barangay forum to discuss the updates of the Flood Control project and to consult with the residents on how best to sustain the gains of the project

The wall news is a low-cost information dissemination vehicle initiated by the barangay as its way of keeping the residents informed and clarified on issues related to the implementation of the IFCP.

Engr. Jimmy de Leon of the DPWH said construction of several box culverts along Upper Ingore Creek has already been completed, which include flood prone areas like Barangays Balabago and Banuyao, to complement the proposed widening of the Upper Ingore Creek.

The Datu Puti Box Culvert has replaced the wooden footbridge in the area. This 3-barrel culvert is enabling the residents and vehicles to safely and conveniently pass through it to.

The DPWH also said the new Jaro-Balabago Box culverts including the recently completed City Homes and Banuyao Box culverts inside Ledesco City Homes Subdivision are much bigger than the previous ones, hence larger volume of water flowing through the creek could be accommodated during the rainy season.

Downstream of Upper Ingore is the Diversion Box Culvert, a 3-barrel culvert (3.600m x 3.136m per barrel), replaced the previous two lines of 0.91m diameter Reinforced Concrete Pipe culverts across the Iloilo City-Dumangas Diversion Road.

Further, DPWH said this structure will be connected to Ingore Creek, by a diversion channel, at a location more or less 100 meters downstream of Banuyao Box Culvert. From the Diversion Box Culvert going to the mouth of Jaro River, a diversion channel which is partially completed has already been opened, hence, run-off water upstream of the diversion road can readily exit to Jaro River.

Meanwhile, DPWH also said the construction of the Jaro Floodway is substantially accomplished, starting from Bgy. Tacas passing through Barangays Buhang and balabago to the exit point in Bgy. Bitoon. When fully completed this will be the passageway of floodwaters coming from both Aganan and Tigum Rivers.

Barangay Balabago is the first barangay to launch the wall news as an IEC strategy in flood-prone areas in Iloilo City.

source: Panay News (http://www.panaynews.com.ph/top%20story4.htm)

P200T for ‘prettiest plazas’ in Metro-Iloilo, Guimaras
By Jeehan V. Fernandez

MEMBERS of Metro Iloilo-Guimaras Economic Development Council (MIGEDC) will be grooming public plazas in their respective areas which have been flooded with political posters in the aftermath of May 14 elections.

MIGEDC is composed of Iloilo City and neighboring towns of Pavia, Sta. Barbara, San Miguel, Oton, Leganes and Guimaras.

MIGEDC launched Tuesday the “Pretty Plaza, Banwa Gwapa” contest aimed at “investing in the public realm” for tourism purposes.

“A plaza is the center of community activities that ties together members from different sectors within the public realm. An active, vibrant public plaza has the ability to make a city ‘the next big thing,’ by redefining and giving identity to the city,” Iloilo City tourism officer Ben Jimena said.

“Not only are there numerous health and safety benefits that correlate directly to a successful plaza, but the plaza also allow citizens to connect with one another in diverse events and gatherings,” he added.

Jimena said the contest was first conceptualized in May as part of Santacruzan with the launching of the city’s official flower – bougainvillea.

He added that the City Hall-initiated project which is a joint undertaking with City Environment and Natural Resources Office (Cenro), Office of Public Services (OPS) and city’s clean and green taskforce and beautification program, presented the concept of a beautiful plaza to MIGEDC.

“The cleanup campaign was introduced immediately after the elections because of scattered political ads all over the plazas,” said Jimena.

Jimena explained a “beautiful and clean plaza” boasts of landscaped areas with well-trimmed grass; absence of trash and uncollected garbage; clean and good-smelling comfort rooms; abundant and healthy flowering plants and trees; clean and safe play areas; secured and well-lighted; absence of fire hazards and others like open man-holes; presentable and newly-painted structures, statues and lamp posts; absence of tangled electrical wires; and abundance of bougainvillea.

The participating plazas will be judged as to cleanliness (20 percent), beautification (20 percent), safety and security (30 percent) and usefulness and sustainability (30 percent).

The contest will run from August-October with three evaluations and a final presentation to select the winners by the judges from Department of Tourism, an architect, a horticulturist, a landscaper and an environmentalist.

Iloilo City will award P100,000 to a winner in a city-wide plaza beautification drive, said Jimena.

He added that they still deliberate how to divide the prize to the winning district Association of Barangay Captains (ABCs), Cenro personnel, street sweepers who are under the OPS and ABC presidents.

Jimena said the Canadian Urban Institute (CUI) which supports MIGEDC programs will sponsor the P100,000-prize for the winning MIGEDC member-LGU.

source: The Guardian ILOILO (http://www.theguardianiloilo.ph/)

Follow-up on the Iloilo Park that will be constructed in Stockton, CA. I hope our city government will reciprocate this gesture.


http://www.miravite.com/final_Iloilo_Sister_City_Park.jpg

I like the concept. I hope they'll replicate this in Iloilo City as well. Do you think the city government will provide space/s to accommodate parks in the city? The problem we have back home is park never been respected at all. Sometimes it becomes the den of prostitution and other illegal matters. Unless they'll start policing the parks, maybe it would be haven for relaxation amidst the hustle-bustle of citylife.

^^ the Iloilo Fashion Industry comebacking started more than 2 years ago pa. But they start featuring the industry activities over the net and online papers only two years ago pa lang. There's like a fashion presentation almost every week in Iloilo City courtesy by Robinson's Place. Now, SM City Iloilo is riding the trend as well and so some of the hotels in the city.

Eric, that's right. I still remember the "Patadyong" and "Hablon" Fashion Shows in the past. I think we're gearing to improve our fashion industry back into business. :)

My mother was a graduate of a fashion school, or should I say a vocational school for dressmaking, in Iloilo City back in the 60s.

Here's a graduation photo of her donning her own simple creation :D.

http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q128/shyaman_king/Old%20Photos/NanaySolo4.jpg

By the way, my mum ended up as a famous "modista" in our town before she became a fulltime mother.
what school are you referring, Shy? Is it the Miramar or the other ones. I forgot to ask my relatives back home kung diin nag-grad ang auntie sang mother ko. She said she used to work in one of the fashion school in Iloilo City. Dressmaking in the past is really a lucrative job pa daw. Kadamo sang dressmaking shops sa aton. Only recently nga unti-unti siya nadula.

Cool and nice renderings.


I'll visit them all tomorrow migs. :)
Okay Kirbs. I'm really looking forward for this SIH expansion. It looks grand and will definitely boost business activities along the Molo district. Hopefully, they'll relocate all the squatters in front of this hospital. The last time Wecky told us that they are dismantling some houses to give way for the new Carpenter's Bridge and relocate this squatters in other areas. Good move for the city indeed. Making more places for businessmen and investors.

Sweet. Sheer. Surreal.
By Kathy M. Villalon

http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/05/29/mandy1.jpg http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/05/29/mandy2.jpg http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/05/29/mandy3.jpg

Mandy Salcedo introduced his summer collection recently in a fashion show entitled “Sweet, sheer and surreal,” which was hosted by Jay Garovillo and sponsored by Robinsons Place Iloilo, Pahinar Beauty Salon and Oriental Work.

Take it from Mandy to come up with colorful and tasteful designs. After all, he is one of the city's most admired designers. He featured swimwear and island wear that came in colors of yellow, red, fuschia, green, blue, and more. Capri pants, sarongs, accessories and hats completed the look. His collection makes one crave for the beach and laze around the sweet, sheer and surreal way.

So, grab that Mandy Salcedo summer outfit, wear it and lie down on the beach with a frozen margarita on hand. Perfect!

source: The News Today (http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/05/29/sweet.sheer.surreal.html)

The search for new designers
By Kathy M. Villalon

http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/06/11/design.lab2.jpg
Robbie Philip Pacificar and
Paulo Benito Tugbang

The fashion industry is a dynamic one. As it evolves, there is a need for more designers whose creations are in tune with the times.

Thus, Robinsons Place Iloilo is holding the Robinsons Design Lab, a project that gives budding designers a chance to shine.

http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/06/11/design.lab3.jpg
Florad John Gonzales and
Pier Lynelle Bañas

The first elimination was held last April. The final elimination was held last May. After some comments and grilling from judges Bo Parcon, Jaki Peñalosa and Angelette Borja Ragus of the Designers Guild of Iloilo, three were chosen. They are Paulo Benito Tugbang, Alfred Jor-el Espina and Neny Dawn Jover. They will compete for the grand prize on the finals on July 4 at the said mall.

Each will present a six-piece collection.

The winner will receive P10,000, a trophy and a junior membership in the DGI.

http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/06/11/design.lab4.jpg
Neny Dawn Jover, Alfred Jor-El Espina and
Mary Rose Adelie Pacificar

So, these young designers are now up to their necks in preparing their collections.

So, what designs are they cooking up? Will they be wild, funky, chic or simple? Find out on July 4 at the mall's fountain area.

About the Finalist

Paolo Benito Tugbang
West Visayas State University College of Nursing
His designs lean on four major concepts --- functionality, flexibility, style and comfort. He prefers trends in Victorian, Napoleonic Boheme and hippie. He goes for rustic, earthy and leafy colors. He loves the Alexander McQueen, Jean-Paul Gaultier, Ghost, Hermes and Victor & Rolf labels.

http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/06/11/design.lab1.jpg
The judges are Bo Parcon, Angelette Borja Ragus
with Robinsons Mall Manager Ditas Taleon
and Jaki Peñalosa

Alfred Jor-El Espina
He is the in-house jewelry designer of Ichi Pichi. He makes gowns various occasions and specializes in avant garde designs. He loves the designs of John Galliano for Christian Dior, the cocktail couture and evening gowns of Catherine Malandrino and the flamboyant colors of Kate Toralba.

Neny Dawn Jover
She is a student of the Central Philippine University. She likes ancient wardrobes fused with the modern.

source: The News Today (http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/06/11/the.search.for.new.designers.html)

Bridal Rites, an exemplar of grace
By Michel Sumayo

http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/06/12/bridal.rites1.jpg
From left are Louis Claparols, Ditas
Taleon and Maurice Arcache

Wedding, the ceremony of marriage, is often carried on by ritual preparations and celebrated according to customs prescribed by the culture.


http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/06/12/bridal.rites3.jpg
Ditas Taleon, Maurice Arcache,
Ria Bolivar, and Bo Parcon

Today's couples often look to the times of yore, in order to bring a matchless, special touch to their up- to -date wedding celebrations by illustrating wedding rituals and practices seen throughout the world. Most wedding traditions, like throwing rice and eating cake, started long ago.

http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/06/12/bridal.rites2.jpg
Claire Gabayeron, Jasmine Castelo and
Jaki Peñalosa gown

If truth be told, summer is the most passionate time of the year with many couples pronouncing their engagement. May, for instance, is a blissful month. The time of year when birds are singing, the sun is shining and love is in the air. It is the time when soon-to-wed couples find time to come along, settle down and mull over their choices in preparation for their wedding day.

http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/06/12/bridal.rites4.jpg
Don Protasio, Louie Claparols and
Eric De los Santos gown

Robinson's Place Iloilo held Wedding Rituals 2007, demonstrating the divergent blueprints of wedding dresses designed by gifted Ilonggo designers at the Fountain Area. It attributes the incomparable designs of Louis Claparols, Jaki Penalosa, Angelette Borja Ragus, Bo Parcon, Don Protasio, Claire Jarantilla, Gabayeron, Eric De Los Santos, Jasmine Castelo, Mandy Salcedo, and Carlo Simoy.

http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/06/12/bridal.rites5.jpg
Mandy Salcedo, Angelette Borja Ragus and
Bo Parcon gown

The opening ceremony of the occasion in conjunction with the cutting of ribbon was fore fronted by Maurice Arcache, Louie Claparols and Ditas Taleon, manager of Robinsons Place Iloilo.

Robinsons Place Iloilo's Wedding Rituals 2007 wish to convey you brainwave and precious information, in order that you can commemorate your exceptional day, in your own extraordinary way.

source: The News Today (http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/06/12/bridal.rites.an.exemplar.of.grace.html)

LaPaz and Iloilo City Downtown from another point of view

http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/6/photos/48/orig/10/P1130370.JPG?et=70XLfjzITnLCXU3x10gUog

^^too many to label:lol: I like it when it's in high-res

A few photos of some OTOP products at SM City:

Butterscoti with cashew nuts (great with coffee)
http://img440.imageshack.us/img440/4325/imgp0645wmfd7.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Chocolate-coated polvoron, P5 each
http://img382.imageshack.us/img382/9445/imgp0643wmao4.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Salabat in pouches
http://img440.imageshack.us/img440/1983/imgp0646wmxn5.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Salabat in bottles
http://img160.imageshack.us/img160/5400/imgp0647wmtf6.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

This caught my attention: Fish cookies, fish polvoron, fish noodles from Barotac Viejo
http://img101.imageshack.us/img101/4844/imgp0649wmhp1.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Close-up of fish cookies
http://img440.imageshack.us/img440/1230/imgp0651wmxt5.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Fish polvoron for only P1.00 each!
http://img258.imageshack.us/img258/6428/imgp0654wmty5.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

the polvoron really ticks me off.

Sarap naman!!! hello iloilo!!! :)

I think the fashion academy that you guys are referring to is "Miraflor Fashion Academy"...hehehehe

btw, the candidate from Bacolod was the grand winner for Phil. Next Top Model. Maybe, Iloilo designers can invite her to wear their collections.

The approach in front of UP
http://img402.imageshack.us/img402/3387/imgp0664wmmn9.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img297.imageshack.us/img297/8125/imgp0666wmvq3.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

They will use these as the columns
http://img175.imageshack.us/img175/7551/imgp0677wmxo3.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Like these...
http://img175.imageshack.us/img175/4049/imgp0678wmqo6.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://www.unlawyer.net/photos/ipap-photos/An%20overhead%20view%20of%20the%20departure%20hall%20of%20the%20new%20Iloilo%20Airport.jpg
Photo by: Unlawyer.net

For more New Iloilo Airport pictures, click the link below:
http://www.unlawyer.net/photos/?a=the-new-iloilo-airport
Bravo! Puwede na Noy ! Thanks for the photo, bernie.

Okay Kirbs. I'm really looking forward for this SIH expansion. It looks grand and will definitely boost business activities along the Molo district. Hopefully, they'll relocate all the squatters in front of this hospital. The last time Wecky told us that they are dismantling some houses to give way for the new Carpenter's Bridge and relocate this squatters in other areas. Good move for the city indeed. Making more places for businessmen and investors.
well, Molo needs more investors if they want to turn this district into a highly commercial one like the city proper and part of jaro. there's still a good portion of land in Molo that can hold expansion of other commercial/hotels and retailers at once. Molo's still untapped district in the city, just like Arevalo.

I like the concept. I hope they'll replicate this in Iloilo City as well. Do you think the city government will provide space/s to accommodate parks in the city? The problem we have back home is park never been respected at all. Sometimes it becomes the den of prostitution and other illegal matters. Unless they'll start policing the parks, maybe it would be haven for relaxation amidst the hustle-bustle of citylife.
If they want to replicate it, the city needs to buy bigger lot intended for park. And like you say, the park will need 24 hr security and monitoring to maintain its dignity and will not turn into another pigpen of basura and other illegal activites.

^^too many to label:lol: I like it when it's in high-res

A few photos of some OTOP products at SM City:

Butterscoti with cashew nuts (great with coffee)
http://img440.imageshack.us/img440/4325/imgp0645wmfd7.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Chocolate-coated polvoron, P5 each
http://img382.imageshack.us/img382/9445/imgp0643wmao4.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Salabat in pouches
http://img440.imageshack.us/img440/1983/imgp0646wmxn5.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Salabat in bottles
http://img160.imageshack.us/img160/5400/imgp0647wmtf6.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

This caught my attention: Fish cookies, fish polvoron, fish noodles from Barotac Viejo
http://img101.imageshack.us/img101/4844/imgp0649wmhp1.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Close-up of fish cookies
http://img440.imageshack.us/img440/1230/imgp0651wmxt5.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Fish polvoron for only P1.00 each!
http://img258.imageshack.us/img258/6428/imgp0654wmty5.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

polvoron is really nice but fish polvoron? yucky !

From :
Philippines Guide
For Locals, Expats and tourists in the Philippines.

Iloilo City: Great Vacation with a Growing Economy

Iloilo City, Philippines, was a center of commerce and trade way back in the Spanish and American colonial periods. The locals are known to be a people who are polite and calm in speech. You’ll find that the people of Iloilo City to be tender and warm to guests and visitors.

When you get to Iloilo City, one of the first things you’ll notice is that when you speak to some of the locals they would often just smile at you. That doesn’t mean they don’t understand you or they think you’re funny, it’s just that the locals are generally shy. When you speak to them in English, there are those who would respond in English since Ilongos (Iloilo natives) are well educated and can speak more than one language.

The people in Iloilo City are generally very friendly and would walk an extra mile to help a stranger. Just be aware that Iloilo City also has its own host of scoundrels — so it’s a good advice to be careful too.

Historically speaking, Iloilo City was an agricultural center back in the colonial days. Agricultural produce like sugar, mangoes, and bananas were exported from Iloilo.

Nowadays, Iloilo City is a huge source of manpower in the Philippines. The manpower in Iloilo City is classified under multi-skilled workers. The people here are also multi-lingual. You will find that workers would speak in the native Hiligaynon, but would speak English at work. Other languages or dialects spoken in Iloilo City include Tagalog and Kinaray-a. Iloilo City is also known as a source of the finest embroidery in the Philippines.

Iloilo City is very much alive with a host of various festivities. Some of the most notable festivals in Iloilo City are the Dinagyang Festival, Paraw-Regatta, the Fireworks Display, and the Feast of Our Lady of Candles.

The Dinagyang Festival is a lively cultural event in Iloilo City. It commemorates the Christianization of Iloilo City natives and is celebrated every fourth weekend of January. You’ll be treated to a colorful parade, a dramatization of the patron saint Sto. Nino, and a celebration of drums and shouts of “Hala Bira” by tribe members.

Iloilo City is also a host to an annual fireworks display competition. This is in conjunction with the Arevalo district fiesta and is held every third Sunday of January.

Iloilo City is also the site of the oldest golf course in the Philippines located at Sta. Barbara. Water activities are also commonplace that include offshore fishing, swimming, scuba diving, and water skiing.

Hotel accommodations in Iloilo City have an average price range of $18 to $100 depending on the hotel you’ll be staying in. The plane trip to Iloilo would have an average cost of Php 2,000 to Php 4,000 depends if you travel first class or economy and so forth. Airlines in the Philippines usually give discounts.

Iloilo City provides an experience of a really valuable vacation. It’s a pleasurable dive into a cultural hospitality that is unique to its people. Iloilo City is also a budding economic region with a competitive manpower that may well boost its economy.


Hotels in Iloilo City

Hotels in Iloilo City can be found almost on top of each other. They are right beside or just a couple of blocks from each other. When competition’s everywhere, seldom is there a busy season. The off-season seems to happen all-year round. That can be both good and bad for guests who book their stay there.

The good part is that these hotels are CHEAP! There are a lot of package deals available, ranging from a weekend package with complementary breakfast for Php 3,000.00, to an overnight stay for only Php 1,250.00 per person. Offers are anything and everything that they can think of to make their prices cheaper than the competition.

These hotels have really nice rooms. Beds are tidy and there are always fresh sheets. You get cable TV and those little single-serving soaps, shampoo and conditioners, and shower caps in your bathroom. Yup, and you can just toss them in your bags too… single serving toiletries are so adorable, you just want to keep them rather than use them. Admit it, when we travel, we bring our own soaps and shampoos anyway. But it is curious that in some hotels, you also get a tiny bottle of bath foaming gel, and there’s no tub in the bathroom! That’s a little funny but, what the heck, we’d just toss that bottle in our luggage too!

Another good thing about it is that the staff really cares about you. The doorman will always greet you with a “Have a nice day ma’am” or a “Take care sir”. You call room service and they’re at your door in less than 5 minutes. Ask for an extra chair, you got. Ask for cold water in a pitcher, they’d bring it in no time. The staff is so friendly and helpful. And if you don’t speak Ilonggo (the native tongue in the city), it doesn’t matter. They can understand the typical Tagalog from Manila and, this is so endearing, they speak beautiful English. Well, connecting with the staff is no problem at all.

And the breakfast is awesome! You’ll really get that Pinoy experience with the tapsilog, tosilog, hotsilog, and all other meat-egg-fried rice combinations that you can find in Filipino homes. You can even get daing or dried fish with your fried garlic rice and sunny-side up eggs. There’s an array fresh fruits to choose from and the mangoes are so sweet!

Now, we’ll go to the bad parts. If you’re alone, the food situation is difficult. The only meal that you can get for a single guest is the breakfast. Turns out, the restaurants and food services in these hotels only make family style portions during lunch and dinner… that’s food for 3-4 people! And we all know that one of the joys of staying in a hotel is ordering room service. And when you’re getting platters of food when you’re only eating for one, it’s not very appetizing. Another bad detail is that there’s no internet access in most of these hotels. So if you’re traveling for business, that’s really inconvenient.

Hotels in Iloilo City are a dime a dozen. That’s both good and bad for the traveler in us. Though there are issues such as the lack of internet access and the family-sized food portions, the people, price and ambiance are worth having the hotel experience in the old city of Iloilo.


Site: http://www.philippinesinsider.com/

Nice promo. I hope we can use this info to widen our scope in promoting tourism in Iloilo, Panay and Western Visayas.

polvoron is really nice but fish polvoron? yucky !

:lol: It tastes like any other polvoron. The fish component is in the form of fish protein concentrate which doesn't taste anything. The plus is that you are gaining protein from what would normally be carbo-rich polvoron.

:lol: It tastes like any other polvoron. The fish component is in the form of fish protein concentrate which doesn't taste anything. The plus is that you are gaining protein from what would normally be carbo-rich polvoron.


Ohh....Fish tech talaga! :lol:

Anyway, thats a good substitute for protein-rich diet, especially for body builders (who are not for steroids). :D

:lol: It tastes like any other polvoron. The fish component is in the form of fish protein concentrate which doesn't taste anything. The plus is that you are gaining protein from what would normally be carbo-rich polvoron.
'righty. I just can't imagine a fishy-taste polvoron. Daw fish fillet lang siya ga ginbok-bok.

diba ang cebu ang queen city of the south not iloilo?

I think the fashion academy that you guys are referring to is "Miraflor Fashion Academy"...hehehehe
hahahaha. I think so, Daks. Di ba ang Miramar iya sa likod sang CPU?

diba ang cebu ang queen city of the south not iloilo?

Today, Cebu is the Queen City. Back in 1800's all the way to 1960's, it was Iloilo.

We Ilonggos accepted the fact that those glorious days were over.
And we are now starting a new beginning.

I'd like to ask.. what is happening in SM City's foodcourt? renovation?
http://img228.imageshack.us/img228/4592/imgp0639hy2.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

either refurbishment, renovation or pagamayon nila to pave way to other retailers. Tani indi lang ang the last one. I really enjoyed dining in foodcourt. Inang cowboy style lang. But of course, my most preferred area will be on seaside, either Villa or Coastal Road.

ceres liner

^^ Ay Dong, ayaw pagkumparar ang uban nga cities sa uban. Dili na pasugot sa Skyscrapercity baya na. Mao na ang pinaka-guinadilian diri. Better watch your words since SSC is a highly-sensitive forum.

If you will instigate a war between us and Cebu/Bacolod, then SSC is not for you. ;)

obviously mas nindot ang cebu city ug bacolod kaysa sa iloilo

Please refrain from starting CvC (City vs City) situations here, it will not be tolerated. :nono: If you have nothing constructive to say about a certain city, it's best that you keep them to yourself.

^^ hehehe. Ay ambot na lamang ah. Please bring the comparison somewhere else, not in our thread. Thanks.

ceres liner

obviously mas nindot ang cebu city ug bacolod kaysa sa iloilo

^^ don't instigate anything here newbie, SSC mods are monitoring every thread. better read the rules and regulations of SSC before posting anything inflammatory and devisive comments. lets this be your warning :bash: and your welcome:cheers: as well.

Incognito, mate, how's your holiday? nice to see you back in our forum. :) I'm enjoying updates here. For few days and weeks that I wasn't around, gee, too many topics were covered.

^^Hi Kirbs! its was fun but super busy, i posted my pics in the Samahan section, sa ilonggo thread, btw, where's your pics from ireland?

Grito de Santa Barbara. (by Francis Puig of Flickr)http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1435/716368365_e9d6cf15f3_o.jpg

^^ hehehe. Ay ambot na lamang ah. Please bring the comparison somewhere else, not in our thread. Thanks.

^^ Ay Dong, ayaw pagkumparar ang uban nga cities sa uban. Dili na pasugot sa Skyscrapercity baya na. Mao na ang pinaka-guinadilian diri. Better watch your words since SSC is a highly-sensitive forum.

If you will instigate a war between us and Cebu/Bacolod, then SSC is not for you. ;)

Please refrain from starting CvC (City vs City) situations here, it will not be tolerated. :nono: If you have nothing constructive to say about a certain city, it's best that you keep them to yourself.

^^ don't instigate anything here newbie, SSC mods are monitoring every thread. better read the rules and regulations of SSC before posting anything inflammatory and devisive comments. lets this be your warning :bash: and your welcome:cheers: as well.
Spare us from temptation/s. Ave !
Let live and let live. Aga pa ang kalibutan para makasala. Anyhow, thanks for the reminders.
Btw, the best comment goes to Bernie, (joke lang po) solely because I could not decipher some of the wordings. I think I need to start learning other dialects aside from my innate Karay-a and my adopted Hiligaynon.

Spare us from temptation/s. Ave !
Let live and let live. Aga pa ang kalibutan para makasala. Anyhow, thanks for the reminders.
Btw, the best comment goes to Bernie, (joke lang po) solely because I could not decipher some of the wordings. I think I need to start learning other dialects aside from my innate Karay-a and my adopted Hiligaynon.

Hiligaynon and Sugbohanon are kissing cousins in Philippine linguistics. Way back 6 years ago, I cannot speak nor understand Hiligaynon or Cebuano. I started speaking Hiligaynon since it is a good transition language for Cebuano. From Hiligaynon I learned how to speak Cebuano. :D

I'd like to ask.. what is happening in SM City's foodcourt? renovation?
http://img228.imageshack.us/img228/4592/imgp0639hy2.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
Keep all renovations and improvements coming. I mean in all ways, we need to upgrade and we need to cater the demands of time hence expansion is veritably needed for SM City Iloilo. I would like to see an SM Storyland, a Skating Rink and an IMAX Cinema. It doesn't matter whether poshy shops will be available but these three will be the topmost priorities. Problem we have in Iloilo is we don't have a proper place to unwind for small children, rides for feeling children and much-improved thrilling cinemas for both. Even mini-park with all the rides and sightseeing, okay na sa aton. This could somehow balance the hectic life of an average city residents.

:lol: It tastes like any other polvoron. The fish component is in the form of fish protein concentrate which doesn't taste anything. The plus is that you are gaining protein from what would normally be carbo-rich polvoron.
Ka OA kay Kirby. Pero ano gid man sabor niya daw fishball? Again, joke only.
So we're developing more and more finished products for pasalubongs and exports?

Buti pa sa Iloilo, ang bilis matapos ng mga infrastructure projects ng gov't....talagang booming... World-class Airport(2004-2006)...Flyover(2007-2009)...Molo Bridge(2007-2008)....grabe ang pagkaprogressive and ambitious....kung sa Maynila yan, it will take forever (NAIA 3!!!! 2001- 20??)...Mwahahahha!

Keep all renovations and improvements coming. I mean in all ways, we need to upgrade and we need to cater the demands of time hence expansion is veritably needed for SM City Iloilo. I would like to see an SM Storyland, a Skating Rink and an IMAX Cinema. It doesn't matter whether poshy shops will be available but these three will be the topmost priorities. Problem we have in Iloilo is we don't have a proper place to unwind for small children, rides for feeling children and much-improved thrilling cinemas for both. Even mini-park with all the rides and sightseeing, okay na sa aton. This could somehow balance the hectic life of an average city residents.


Sometimes, I feel that Iloilo City is not a child-friendly city due to lack of facilities to keep our little ones entertained. Other than shopping, nothing else. I for one is not a big fan of shopping. I hope they will build a modern museum or perhaps an art festival during the 'off-peak' season to fill the gap in between Paraw Regatta leading to Christmas, cos there's not a lot going on during those times to keep the tourists entertained. We should have a calendar packed of citywide and provincial events to entice tourists to come and visit our city and province. Although there are already few events, we need to come up with some good ideas in and around the city.

Right on target there @Rolls. Recreational areas for everyone to enjoy for free is a big dearth in Iloilo City. We do have parks or plazas but they're so compact and lack well-maintained recreational facilities to motivate people to go there. They ended up as "tambayan" of those who have nothing to do the whole day.

A skating rink in one of the parks is a nice idea. I would love to see a bigger park in the Diversion Road area someday.

And you're right, the city government should come up with an initiative to fill in the gap between festivities in the city. A festival in summer, where kids and students are off from school, will be a welcome respite to the usual "outings".

Today, Cebu is the Queen City. Back in 1800's all the way to 1960's, it was Iloilo.

We Ilonggos accepted the fact that those glorious days were over.
And we are now starting a new beginning.

Cheers to that bern!!!! :cheers: :cheers: :cheers: :soon:

Sometimes, I feel that Iloilo City is not a child-friendly city due to lack of facilities to keep our little ones entertained. Other than shopping, nothing else. I for one is not a big fan of shopping. I hope they will build a modern museum or perhaps an art festival during the 'off-peak' season to fill the gap in between Paraw Regatta leading to Christmas, cos there's not a lot going on during those times to keep the tourists entertained. We should have a calendar packed of citywide and provincial events to entice tourists to come and visit our city and province. Although there are already few events, we need to come up with some good ideas in and around the city.
That's right. There's nowhere to unwind at all. No parks for picnics, n disneys, no fancy rides, no nothing. It's really sad. You just go to the city and do your shoppng. At times, it becomes frustrating and pathetic to just walk continously to the long aisles of city streets. I think the city needs to have real theme park. Where after all the hustle bustles of the city, you can sit and unwind, have your ice creams, bring your children for the rides of their life and more. I just wish SM will see how desperate we are for this to happen so as to open (for once) a Storyland or and indoor theme park if possible. I used to likethe Storyland in SM Alabang (Southmall). I don't know if it is still exisiting. Bisan half of Star City man lang kung puwede.

Right on target there @Rolls. Recreational areas for everyone to enjoy for free is a big dearth in Iloilo City. We do have parks or plazas but they're so compact and lack well-maintained recreational facilities to motivate people to go there. They ended up as "tambayan" of those who have nothing to do the whole day.

A skating rink in one of the parks is a nice idea. I would love to see a bigger park in the Diversion Road area someday.

And you're right, the city government should come up with an initiative to fill in the gap between festivities in the city. A festival in summer, where kids and students are off from school, will be a welcome respite to the usual "outings".
They're not so used about this things, I guess, Shyaman. We have really poor recreational activities back home. And we don't have the place to sit and relax in the midst of the city. Rotary Park is obviously a big disappointment. It could have been better if it was developed properly plus the fact that they are too small space IMO. That's why I'm keen on Trenas vision of building a Theme Park in the old airport's site. It's for the best, I'm sure.

^^ Yeah. If those glorious days were over, it doesn't mean the end of the world for Iloilo. It is already starting a new day and hopefully, it doesn't fall back from its mistakes of the past.

Right on target there @Rolls. Recreational areas for everyone to enjoy for free is a big dearth in Iloilo City. We do have parks or plazas but they're so compact and lack well-maintained recreational facilities to motivate people to go there. They ended up as "tambayan" of those who have nothing to do the whole day.

A skating rink in one of the parks is a nice idea. I would love to see a bigger park in the Diversion Road area someday.

And you're right, the city government should come up with an initiative to fill in the gap between festivities in the city. A festival in summer, where kids and students are off from school, will be a welcome respite to the usual "outings".

I was thinking that the Riverside Park would be constructed so the residents of the city would have a good park to stroll in during early mornings and late afternoons. The river is scenic already, just add up a wholesome park (it is for family-oriented, not another "miracle" oriented den) and it will be an ideal resting place as an alternative for malls and beaches of Guimaras, Dumangas, Villa and Oton.


It was not posted by Toto Chy last time, here we go:

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1332/560517009_e6ce189e2c_o.jpg

either refurbishment, renovation or pagamayon nila to pave way to other retailers. Tani indi lang ang the last one. I really enjoyed dining in foodcourt. Inang cowboy style lang. But of course, my most preferred area will be on seaside, either Villa or Coastal Road.
Fine dining in Punta Villa, and all seafoods feast within the beach seasides, etc. Villa needs more than proper resto, etc. It needs general facelift. I hope they'll start thinking of relocating some of its residents somewhere outside the city. Villa needs big hotel investments to uplift its economic political not to mention its face. I guess people should start respecting Villa. And I hope that the festival in Villa annually will pave way to better Villa in a very near future.

The approach in front of UP
http://img402.imageshack.us/img402/3387/imgp0664wmmn9.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

http://img297.imageshack.us/img297/8125/imgp0666wmvq3.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

They will use these as the columns
http://img175.imageshack.us/img175/7551/imgp0677wmxo3.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Like these...
http://img175.imageshack.us/img175/4049/imgp0678wmqo6.jpg (http://imageshack.us)
massive construction. I hope matapos na ini to ease Gen Luna's traffic and for them to start the one in front of SM City. We just need to move fast to finish all these infra works. Any other development in Nabitasan? I'm really looking forward to this area. It looks promising sa iya rendering. Hopefully, those scheme will be fully realised.

well, Molo needs more investors if they want to turn this district into a highly commercial one like the city proper and part of jaro. there's still a good portion of land in Molo that can hold expansion of other commercial/hotels and retailers at once. Molo's still untapped district in the city, just like Arevalo.


If they want to replicate it, the city needs to buy bigger lot intended for park. And like you say, the park will need 24 hr security and monitoring to maintain its dignity and will not turn into another pigpen of basura and other illegal activites.



polvoron is really nice but fish polvoron? yucky !
I totally agree, mate. Molo is heading that way. Developments in southern Iloilo is leading outside the city making Oton busier as the days go by.

I totally agree, mate. Molo is heading that way. Developments in southern Iloilo is leading outside the city making Oton busier as the days go by.

I think I saw a statistcal figure for Oton, stating that this town has the fastest growth in population among MIGEDC (except Iloilo City).

They will soon realize that the present road can no longer handle the volume thus queueing plans of making a new parallel road.

Gastronomicaltreat
Try Afriques next time. They serve good food at affordable prices. The restaurant is located in one of Iloilo City's heritage sites.

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1023/560506639_a24b00bfd4.jpg?v=0


http://farm1.static.flickr.com/153/395106846_eb32916bdf.jpg?v=0
Plazoleta Gay, Ciudad Iloilo

^^ ^^ are we really starting a new beginning, Bernie? I guess so. But I would not say much about it for the meantime. I can see some developments and we're really working hard to achieve our goals. I'm glad we have a visionary seating in the city hall at present. Otherwise, we'll be heading into doldrum. Today is a challenging and exciting times for all of us Ilonggos as we are slowly moving the city to meet the demands of the present times. :) I could only imagine if during 70s when we should be more competitive and aggressive, siguro the city has gone too far. But we've made mistake to allow the retarded to seat and govern us. Partly, we can't blame everyone but ourselves. And now, we are indeed starting to drumbeat. Mind you, we're learned and that's the most important thing in the world! yehey ! :banana:

^^ It really hurts when we learn it the hard way, its not just Iloilo that fell on it knees, but Bacolod as well.

These mistakes of the past must not be repeated. And I'm hoping that the vision of making Iloilo rise from its ashes of its mistakes would continue beyond Treñas. Knowing our politics in Iloilo is quite unpredictable nowadays.

I think Mabilog will be as challenged as Trenas. You can see the political pattern already. And if it'll come to the best, looks like Trenas will be the city's congressman in three years time. It all depends on people living. Politics is just a second thing to progress.

Analytically, we're moving well. And it's showing or reflecting on all investments coming to our city recently. Isn't it nice to see the old downtown booming once more.

Politics still matter here in Pinas Space and we cannot deny that fact. That is why I'm very cautious about our politicians since they can bring life or death to the "Phoenix Rising". There are still "old school" politicians lingering.

I'm praying for the best for Iloilo.

Flickr pictures
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/231/505791444_a55c8f24f3_o.jpg
by etheriel
Notice something in the background? Visible in Iloilo and Cebu and especially Negros.

P15-M National Abalone Breeding Project in Iloilo
By Jeehan V. Fernandez

DEPARTMENT of Agriculture (DA) secretary Arthur Yap launched last week the P15-million national abalone breeding and culture program spearheaded by the Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center (Seafdec) and Bureau of Fisheries and Agriculture Research (Bfar) in Tigbauan, Iloilo.

The five-year project aims to reinvigorate the thinning abalone industry—in which the meat of the mollusk is considered a delicacy—to capture the highly lucrative global market of this export product.

“The P15-million investment of DA-Bfar in the program is well worth it—considering that in the first year alone, the six abalone hatcheries and six grow-out farms to be established are projected to produce more than 100,000 kilos, which is valued at P36 million in the local market and P56.5 million if exported,” Yap explained.

He said the DA-Bfar-Seafdec partnership is looking at six possible sites for abalone hatcheries and grow-out sea cage farms—two each in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. These are in Claveria in Cagayan Valley and Sorsogon for Luzon; Bohol and Cebu for the Visayas; and Surigao and Camiguin Island in Mindanao.

“With this national program in place, we hope to maintain our niche as one of the exporters of abalone in the Asia-Pacific region—we are seeding and nurturing the country’s abalone industry,” Yap stressed during the 34th anniversary celebration of the Seafdec-Aquaculture Department in Tigbauan town.

Yap said: “The Philippines is looking forward to conquering the abalone export market in succeeding years with the current world market demand for this seafood requires an additional four million to six million kilos annually.”

In the last decade, the country exported about P129-million worth of various abalone products.

He added that with the rising demand—particularly in China—abalone prices are expected to rise in the global market.

Seafdec, the premier aquaculture research and development institution in Southeast Asia, has made significant contributions in transforming the Philippines into one of the world’s top producers of shrimps, seaweeds, bangus and tilapia, among other aquaculture and marine products.

“We are indeed privileged to have a staunch ally in Seafdec-Aquaculture Department through more than three decades now in our continuing efforts to sustain the development and modernization of the Philippine fishery and aquaculture industry,” said Yap.

Yap noted: “That we have reached the four-million ton fishery production in recent years is in part due to the massive adoption and commercialization of several Seafdec technologies, particularly in giant tiger shrimp, milkfish, high-value marine fishes, tilapia and other freshwater fishes and prawn, seaweeds, and mudcrabs.”

The DA chief assured Seafdec that they will continue to support the institution in developing and disseminating technologies for the benefit of stakeholders, particularly the small fishers and their families.

Meanwhile, Yap commended the Seafdec in its ongoing initiatives to boost fisheries and aquaculture production, including the “ABOT (Agree-Build-Operate-Transfer) Aqua Negosyo,” which provides technical aid to interested entrepreneurs who want to venture into aquaculture.

Also, the Seafdec’s Institutional Capacity Development for Sustainable Agriculture and Resource Enhancement project trains local government units (LGUs), non-government organizations (NGOs), fishermen’s groups, and even fishery schools and colleges on various aquaculture technologies, from site assessment, project establishment, fish stocking to harvest.

Likewise, Yap credited Seafdec-Aquaculture Department chief Dr. Joebert Toledo to carry out several projects in tandem with LGUs and state universities, such as the culture of grouper and mudfish with the Capiz State University; a freshwater hatchery with the Polytechnic College of Antique; cage culture of sea bass with the Mag-aba Cooperative in Pandan, Antique; and the culture of sea bass in Hamtic, Antique.

source: The Daily Guardian ILOILO (http://www.theguardianiloilo.ph/)

P30-M abattoir to push Iloilo’s meat exports
By Jeehan V. Fernandez

THE completion of Iloilo City’s “AA” slaughterhouse in a 2.3-hectare lot at Brgy. Tacas in Jaro district will push Iloilo’s exports of “choice cuts” of pork and other meats all over the country.

The butchering facility can produce an estimated 300 to 400 animal daily.

The soon-to-be-completed multi-million modern abattoir was inspected by Department of Agriculture (DA) secretary Arthur Yap last week.

DA has allotted a total of P20.5-million fund for the project proposed by the city government.

The project is composed of Building-A or the slaughterhouse worth P6 million; Building-B, the holding pen with a P5.5-million water system; P5.5-million wastewater treatment facility and procurement and installation of hog-line equipment worth P4.5 million.

The holding pen is the waiting area for animals to be slaughtered while the wastewater treatment facility consists of a series of lagoon wherein wastewater is filtered and recycled for another use.

The DA also recommended for funding the P3.4-million cattle-line equipment and P1.5 million for additional civil works.

The National Meat Inspection Service NMIS has urged the purchase the high-tech equipment for the butchering process since the ones being used in the old slaughterhouse in Molo are already dilapidated.

As equity for the project, City Hall has spent P1.5 million for concreting of access road while Rep. Raul Gonzalez, Jr. has pledged to provide a P1.5-million generator set.

Mayor Jerry Treñas earlier wanted the slaughterhouse to operate by end of June.

The project’s construction was stalled late last year due to bad weather condition while the area lacked the good access road for construction equipment to drive through the site.

Work on the project resumed earlier this year even as it was projected to be finished during the first quarter.

The city government started the project in May 2005.

The City Veterinarian Office (CVO) has identified the total project cost at P34 million.

CVO chief Tomas Forteza proposed the closure of the old slaughterhouse in Molo district for health reasons as meat processing is implemented with the lack of proper sanitation procedures.

Treñas said the modern slaughterhouse will conform to quality standard of meat products.

source: The Guardian ILOILO (http://www.theguardianiloilo.ph/)

Politics still matter here in Pinas Space and we cannot deny that fact. That is why I'm very cautious about our politicians since they can bring life or death to the "Phoenix Rising". There are still "old school" politicians lingering.

I'm praying for the best for Iloilo.
well, we have three more years to go. We just need to utilise Trenas at present and help make things work. That's why the city's economy remains afloat and progressing courtesy of a good mayor. Of course he is not perfect but you can see he is working and trying his best to brings business and investments to Iloilo City. Without Trenas we might be as sleepy til the present. But there you go, it's a collaborative effort from government and NGOs with a little touch of politics that make Iloilo City ticks off recently.

The old school mind in our city is none other than the Jr Gonzales. He's crap by all means. Siguro because he's a daddy and mommy's boy. Oh bless. :lol:

was it my bad then? I can't think straight lately. Mix up na mind ko maybe due to increasing testo level. he he.

Btw, do we still have this fashion academy in Iloilo til the present?

A Moda Piña chic
By: Michel Sumayo

http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/05/25/pina.moda2.jpg http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/05/25/pina.moda1.jpg http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/05/25/pina.moda3.jpg


* The May 22 event endorsed the use of piña textile to the mainstream market

Iloilo, a small town is known for weaving piña cloth. Now, other areas of Panay Island are already imbibing the expertise of crafting distinctive Ilonggo garments. Aklan, for instance, held Moda Pina -- a fashion show showcasing the utilization of piña cloth akin to the use of pineapple textile in making garments.

In cooperation with SM City's Fiesta in the City A Grand Festival of Food, Music, and Exciting Events, Moda Piña featured the designs of Edwin Lopez, Autencio, Ryan Lopez, Peter Rian Casidsid, Mel Grecia Quimpo along with Manila's top model Ria Bolivar, an Ilongga. Undeniably, it launched a fresh, peculiar, edgy approach to Iloilo's local fashion industry.

The occasion took place last May 22, 2007 at 4 pm at SM City Iloilo. The event endorsed the use of piña textile to the mainstream market. Naturally, the fashion show advocates the use of the country's natural resources making it an environment-friendly move.

source: The News Today (http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/05/25/a.moda.pina.chic.html)

This article belongs here. I found it while browsing the IloIlo infrastructure thread.



Wine, hors d'oeuvres, fashion and culture

http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/06/07/heritage6.jpg
Arch. Gaudencio Arancillo, National
Historical Institute's Luduvico Badoy,
Zaffy Ledesma, Nonel Gemora,
Arch. Antonio Sangrador, Filipino Heritage
Festival Inc Director Bambi Harper,
Desiree Bretana, Kristin Trenas,
Arch Wilfredo Sy, Arch. Joemari Moleta
and Executive Director
Engr Noel Hechanova

To cap its celebration of the Heritage Month, the Iloilo City Cultural Heritage Conservation Council held a gala at the Antillan House (Sanson Residence) last May 22. The gala featured the fashion designs of the Designers Guild of Iloilo, which comprises Angelette Borja Ragus, Bo Parcon, Don Protasio and Jaki Peñalosa. The creations were a fusion of modern and indigenous materials, with hablon again taking the frontseat.

http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/06/07/heritage4.jpg
Jaki Peñalosa

Apart from the fashion show, an awarding of Iloilo City's cultural heritage homes, a musical performance by Gerardo Muyuela, Beny Castillon and Architect Salvador Jumayao, Jr., and a dance number by the USA Little Theater took place.

http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/06/07/heritage7.jpg
Jaki Peñalosa, Bo Parcon,
Angelette Borja Ragus and
Don Protasio

The ladies and gentlemen of Iloilo City take pride in this annual event as this is another opportunity to showcase one's fashion best, meet friends and promote the metropolis's heritage.

http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/06/07/heritage2.jpg
Bo Parcon

Indeed, it was a fabulous night of beautiful people, fashion, wine and hors d'oeuvres.

(Some photos courtesy of Gemma Lulu Villalon)

source: The News Today (http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/06/07/wine.hors.doeuvres.fashion.and.culture.html)

Flickr pictures
http://farm1.static.flickr.com/231/505791444_a55c8f24f3_o.jpg
by etheriel
Notice something in the background? Visible in Iloilo and Cebu and especially Negros.

Is it Mt Kanlaon???:)

10-point alumni agenda
set for Ateneo de Iloilo

ILOILO City – The 10-point alumni program for the only Jesuit school in Western Visayas is now in the master blueprint with the Golden Jubilee Grand Alumni Homecoming this year 2008 as one of the core projects.

Ateneo de Iloilo-Santa Maria Catholic School Alumni Association, Inc. (AAA), led by ABS-CBN anchorperson and lawyer Joebert Peñaflorida, also plans to actively pursue the Alumni Jubilee Fund-Raising Drive inspired by the school’s ongoing P200-million, 7.5-hectare New Site Project in Brgy. San Rafael, Mandurriao, Iloilo City.

Also in the list of priorities are the: strengthening of the organizational set-up of the association that includes technical, financial, legal, accounting and auditing concerns; development of alumni website; publication of the alumni newsletter “The Wave;” setting up of alumni office, secretariat and designing of AAA’s official logo; updating of alumni directory; organizing of alumni chapters in the US and Metro Manila; and the holding of character development and community outreach programs such as job fairs, spiritual retreats, professional and business lectures.

To strengthen the association, point persons were assigned to act as coordinators in the different batch clusters, namely: Gerard Habana (‘71-‘79), Rhea Calantas (’80-’84), John Paul Wang (’85-’89), Dr. Mark Mansueto (’90-’96), Joan Eler (’95-’99), Pierre Jefferson Go (’00-up).

The 2007 AdI-SMCS Alumni Association is presently composed of the following officers: Chairman of the Board, Benedict Uygongco (HS ’78); President, Atty. Peñaflorida (HS ’82); Vice President, Jacob Juan Arnaldo Borres (HS ’91); Secretary, Bernadeth Rojo (HS ’82); Treasurer, Mark Anthony Yap (HS ’96); Auditor, Go (HS ’02); and PRO, Eler (HS ’99); Executive Director for Jubilee Year, Habana (HS ’79); Chairpersons for 2007 Alumni Homecoming, Calantas (HS ’83) and Roberto Alor (HS’83); Board Members, Dr. Mansueto (HS ’91), Mary Ann Therese Menchavez (HS ’92), Wang (HS ’87), Engr. Jose Anselmo Tenorio (HS ’86), and Daniel Benjamin Joseph Consing (HS ’94). School Director Fr. Manuel A. Uy, Jr., SJ, is the association’s moderator.

from: Panay News
link: http://www.panaynews.com.ph/top%20story1.htm

Leganes obtains new fire truck

ILOILO – The Municipality of Leganes had long wanted for a fire truck of its own to respond to frantic fire calls. This dream is now a reality.

A "fire truck-less" municipality is now a thing of the past though. Mayor Adolfo Jaen and Vice Mayor Dionzon Jagunap succeeded to have one for Leganes thru Cong. Judy Syjuco.

The red fire engine truck costs P600 thousand, rehabilitated and in good serviceable condition.

For years, residents could only pray that no fire will break out in homes, for the nearest fire station in Jaro is 7.5 kilometers away and one doesn’t expect response right away because Leganes is in the responsibility area of Dumangas Fire Station which is 15 kilometrs far north. Sadly, a house on fire is already one big heap of charcoal by the time any fire truck arrives.

Call it Divine intervention that no big fire incidents had ever occurred to this municipality of 25,000 people. Town officials have vehemently tried asking help from national government agencies and non-government organizations for a fire truck.

Jaen this month will be sending personnel and private volunteers for training in fire fighting. The firefighters will be on call 24 hours on shift schedule.

As this develops, Mayor Jaen is contemplating to organize a fire brigade to be composed of water distributors to augment the municipality's fire truck in actively taking part in firefighting and rescue activities.

from: Panay News
link: http://www.panaynews.com.ph/top%20story3.htm

P15-M dam to rise in San Miguel town

ILOILO City – The Department of Agriculture (DA) is opening an additional 400 hectares of irrigated lands for the year in addition to the existing 3,000 hectares already being serviced by the National Irrigation Administration (NIA).

Agriculture Secretary Arthur Yap, during his visit to Iloilo on Friday, said they will put up a dam in San Miguel town that is sufficient enough to service another 400 hectares, which they would launch in December.

Meanwhile, Yap announced the release of some P170 million for the repair and rehabilitation of irrigation systems in Western Visayas.

He cited in particular the DA's target of rehabilitating irrigation system that serviced some 3,000 hectares of the more or less 45,000 hectares of irrigated lands in the province.

Yap is optimistic that they can increase the production yield of farmers in the province with the rehabilitation and repair of the province's irrigation system that would make farmers plant for two cropping season.

“The DA is ensuring that the repair and rehabilitation of water sources is undertaken,” he assured.

from: Panay News
link: http://www.panaynews.com.ph/top%20story4.htm

From Manila Bulletin's Archive:

"Tertulla y Tapas"
a showcase of Iloilo fashion

By THERESE J. CAMET


Sarabia Manor in Iloilo City, gathered the province's rich and famous for a dinner/fashion show dubbed Tertulla y Tapas, a highlight in the three-day Philippine-Spain Friendship Day celebrations held last week.


The hotel's Kalan-tiao Hall was packed with ladies dressed in elegant Filipiniana costumes while the gentlemen wore suits and Barong Tagalog.

"Tertulla y Tapas," which was described as "a celebration of good food and merry conversations," showcased gorgeous Filipino costumes interpreted by acclaimed designer Patis Tesoro and DoT travel mart's "Bituin ng Kasuotang Filipino ?04" grand slam winner, Ilongga Jaki Pe��sa.

Jaki infused the edgy, adventurous spirit of the new millenia in her (terno) collection in the first part of the show.

Her sexy ensembles veered away from the traditional one-piece conservative terno . In her ensembles, she updated traditional designs with modern styles.

Her models were Sara Jaleco, Wing Sze Tang, Diana Clyde Clavero, Brigid Mera�� Jade Frances Chingson, Sheila Mae Brasas, Sherlyn Lauron, Megan Orosco, Socorro Haresco, Yuhum Muriel Garibay and Gian Carlo Magalona.

Key pieces were ternos in vibrant colors with floor length trains, two-piece numbers with low-waisted long skirt, corset, tube and backless tops with butterfly sleeves and contemporary detailing.

Jaki lavished her outfits with stylish accessories designed by one of the models, Socorro Haresco of Ichi Pichi. The girls wore long beaded and chandelier earrings matched with elaborate neck pieces and chunky bangles made of wood, capiz and bronze.

Nonoy Mosquerra did the hair and makeup.

Patis Tesoro?s creations, presented during the second half of the show, were also executed in vivid colors.

Her collection was divided into eight categories: terno gown, baro?t saya, MariaClara blouse with narrow angle sleeves, MariaClara with Bulake��leeves, avant-garde kimona with mini camisole and saree anaguas and malong, 18th century MariaClara with pa��o, barong with malong. Capping the collection was a "carnival king and queen."

Donning Patis? creations were Iloilo luminaries like Iloilo City Councilor Juliene Baronda and Prof. Gladys Cordero of West Visayas State University who both wore a terno gown;

Her other "models" were Santa Clarita International School director Prima Buckley, Katherine Rojo, Zonta member Melinda Tinsay, wife of Ilonggo singer Jose Mari Chan-Mary Ann Chan and Iloilo City Convention Bureau president Dr. Ma. Theresa Sarabia who paraded in the baro't saya;

Metropolitan Museum?s Marivic Vasques, TEC-7 Security Agency and Protection Services' Zenia Tajanlangit, MGE Trucking?s Ma. Isabel Espinosa, Negrense Beauty Queen's Amy Lopez, Girlie Tajan-langit and Oton, Iloilo Mayor Carina Florez modeled MariaClaras with narrow angle sleeves;

Iloilo City First Lady Mrs. Rosalie Tre�� Jose Mari Chan's mother Florencia Chan, Kristine Yap, Iloilo City Councilor Mercy Drilon Garcia and Chitos Hotel?s Ma. Luisa Locsin looked stunning in Patis' MariaClaras with Bulake��leeves;

Atty. Belle Geroche and students Tina Liza Hautea and Pia Angriam walked the ramp in avant garde kimona with minicamisole and saree anaguas and malong;

Pasalubong Inc. president Marirose Cacho and Tweety Tupas looked regal in 18th century MariaClara ensembles.

Male models Councilor Jed Mabilog, students Alejandro and Christopher Sarabia, Atty. Jomarie Tre��and columnist Maurice Arcache wore the barong and malong.

Sugar Planter and Business in Negros Occidental and Iloilo?s Rito Carlos Pe��RS Child Development Center's Sara Pe��ABS-CBN?s Oscarlito Nava, students Rita Pe��Paolo Tre��and Risa Pe��accesory designer Alana Lopez Montelibano and restaurateur Pauline Banusig went on the catwalk in carnival king and queen costumes.

Guest models were Ilongga, ex-senator Nikki Coseteng wearing a hand-painted Indian saree buti matched with an Indian woven silk top, and Aurora "Bubot" Sagaz, wife of Spanish Ambassador Ignacio Sagaz.

Madame Bubot who is also a true-blooded Ilongga modeled a jusi hand-painted embroidered top with gold pasada and 8kutsilyo skirt in puresilk from India.

The night was a success, an outstanding display of Ilongo creativity. Truly Pinoy, for instance, were gowns made from the traditional "hablon" or handwoven textile for which Iloilo has become famous, made of jusi (banana fiber combined with silk thread) and pi��fine and sheer cloth made of pineapple fiber).

"Tertulia y Tapas" was directed and choreographed by Bom-bette Marin.

Is it Mt Kanlaon???:)

Kanlaon it is. :okay: The tallest mountain in the Visayas.

Nice developments in Iloilo!!! See you soon! :)

Iloilo could be the fashion capital of our country. :)

^^ It really hurts when we learn it the hard way, its not just Iloilo that fell on it knees, but Bacolod as well.

These mistakes of the past must not be repeated. And I'm hoping that the vision of making Iloilo rise from its ashes of its mistakes would continue beyond Treñas. Knowing our politics in Iloilo is quite unpredictable nowadays.

hello guyz!!!

Iloilo is like a Phoenix...

when it dies into ashes,a new beginning arises!!!

Iloilo water district pushes
for ‘rainwater harvesting’

ILOILO City – This early, the Metro Iloilo Water District (MIWD) is already preparing to combat a possible water crisis in 2008 by building an impounding reservoir for “rainwater harvesting.”

This was revealed by Engr. Timoteo Villaroman, Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) resident Board of Director for the MIWD.

The MIWD is the lone water supplier of Iloilo City and the municipalities of Maasin, Cabatuan, Sta. Barbara, San Miguel, Oton and Leganes.

Villaroman said there is an on-going feasibility study for the project and they hope that MIWD will be able to construct one reservoir during the initial stage.

He added that the MIWD is willing to shell out P30 million for the construction of the five structures.

The amount will be taken from the savings the MIWD incurred out of the P207-million loan intended for the rehabilitation of the water district's distribution lines.

According to Villaroman, in addition to being a storage for water, the reservoir will also serve as a flood control measure.

source: Panay News (http://www.panaynews.com.ph/top%20story3.htm)

Treñas: Housing project can still earn money
By Jeehan V. Fernandez

THE rotting P105-million housing project at Brgy. Ungka, Pavia, Iloilo will not end up in waste, Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas said.

Believe it or not, Treñas even eyes profit by allowing a private entity to take over and develop the already deteriorating project.

Contractor Ace Builders and Enterprise (ABE) abandoned the project situated on a five-hectare lot sometime in 2002 after allegations that substandard materials were used in the construction broke out in the media.
The hullabaloo prompted the city government to stop paying for accomplishment works which in turn forced ABE to abandon the project.

It was during the time of former mayor Mansueto Malabor in April 2001 or barely a month before the May elections that ABE started to undertake the project with an original contract price of P125-million which was later revised to P137-million.

The socialized housing project aimed to establish 413 units intended for city employees was initiated by Malabor and funded through a bond flotation scheme availed by the city government with the Philippine Veteran’s Bank (PVB).

Malabor lost to Treñas in the May 2001 elections, prompting the latter to take over the implementation of the project which was supervised by the City Engineer’s Office (CEO).

Treñas said the City Government had released P80 million of the loan with the P60 million paid to ABE during his term while the P20 million was paid during Malabor’s time.

ABE had been asking a certain amount for the last billings from the City Hall as remaining payable but Treñas said they will have to wait for the computation of the Commission on Audit (COA) to determine the exact amount.

City Legal Office (CLO) chief Atty. Edgar Gil earlier recommended that the city council go over the financial evaluation made by COA and CEO’s billing to pay ABE P14-million more if it is justified.

A PVB document showed the five-year loan matured May 2007.

Likewise, a schedule of payments certified by city accountant Consolacion Tormon showed the city had paid to PVB a total of P105-million including the P80-million principal, P24-million interest and P706,000 in taxes with the last payment April 30.

Meanwhile, Treñas is optimistic that the city can still recover the losses it incurred for paying the bank loan.

“We will enter into a joint venture with a private enterprise at no cost for the city to recover the losses and even profit from the project. The land value of the site would be increasing. It will be the private firm that will develop, sell and market the property,” Treñas explained.

A 2005 COA report urged the city government to take immediate action on the deteriorating housing project to prevent possible waste of public funds.

The COA report cited that “the city government suffered damage to property and possible wastage of funds to the extent of P87-million due to its delayed completion or action on the housing project which remained unfinished to date.”

Treñas, Malabor and several city officials have been indicted by the Office of the Ombudsman-Visayas on the housing project scam.

COA said that during the project was stopped “ABE reported an accomplishment of 73.88 percent and already claimed from the city government a total of P62.59 million less taxes.”

“Information gathered disclosed that ABE failed to continue the project despite the issuance by the city engineer of the order to resume to work on September 23, 2002. Since then the uncompleted buildings remained unattended and were exposed to elements resulting to deterioration,” the COA said.

But an evaluation report dated Nov. 16, 2005 by COA’s technical service Office (TCO) showed that ABE only accomplished 61.7 percent of the project valued at P87million.

The TCO report also observed “defect, deficiencies and discrepancies” on several housing units amounting to P5-million.

Thieveries also reportedly plagued the project site as COA gathered several blotter reports on theft incidents therein.

COA also wants ABE to “justify satisfactorily the deficiency of P5.524 million, otherwise deduct the amount from the total value of work accomplished.”

Treñas said the alleged use of substandard materials will be deducted from the payments of the city government to the contractor.

However, outspoken Kagawad Perla Zulueta earlier debunked the city’s move to reconsider the payment saying there is no reason to pay ABE despite the fact that it left the project to deteriorate—to the detriment of public interest.

Instead, Zulueta urged city hall to sue ABE for breach of contract that caused damage to the project.

Treñas had even lectured that the Malabor administration should have not prioritized a mass housing project.

“The city government should have not entered into the housing project considering it has no expertise to market the facility or develop a subdivision-type area. The important task would be the marketing but the city cannot do that. It would be much easier if we have to develop a relocation site but not embarking on a project of such magnitude,” he stressed.

Treñas said he was just “forced” to pursue the project when he took over the City Hall in 2001.

Worse, he noted that the City Planning and Development Office (CPDO) survey showed that only a small number of city employees could afford to own a house unit if ever the project is completed.

“Only a few could be qualified to avail of the housing unit depending on their actual net salary and these are just the department heads,” Treñas pointed out, short of saying the project doesn’t even serve its main purpose.

Treñas even surmised that the loan in a form of bond flotation acquired with PVB to finance the project was “impractical.”

“The bond flotation, based on my experience was more expensive. They should have studied it before,” said Treñas.

source: The Guardian ILOILO (http://www.theguardianiloilo.ph/)

Nice developments in Iloilo!!! See you soon! :)
hope more to come. And you're always welcome in Iloilo, x_md.

‘Iloilo City in GMA’s SONA’
By Jeehan V. Fernandez

ILOILO CITY’s booming call center industry and construction of the Metro Iloilo Radial Road will be highlighted in the President’s State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, July 23, said Mayor Jerry Treñas.

It will be noted that President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo commended Treñas for actively wooing call center firms to expand their operations in the metropolis during her SONA July last year.

Arroyo also pledged infrastructure projects like roads in Iloilo being the gateway to Boracay and Guimaras for tourism purposes as envisioned in the Central Philippines super-region program with the Visayas as the main tourism hub of the country.

The mayor said he will attend the SONA to be delivered by Arroyo at the Congress.

He added that the developments in the field of call centers and road networks were the subjects asked of him by Arroyo to be included in her SONA.

Treñas stressed that giant call center companies like TeleTech and Sutherland have been working on the establishment of 1,000-seat facilities each in the city.

Meanwhile, the Metro Iloilo Radial Road project is expected not only to reduce traffic congestion along the Iloilo-Roxas Road, particularly the sections of Iloilo City and Leganes-Zarraga towns but will contribute to the economic development of the area.

The by-pass road starts from the proposed Iloilo Circumferential Road No. 1 and ends about 1.50-kilometer north of Zarraga town proper where it merges with the existing Iloilo-Roxas Road.

The project implementation which so far accounted 10 percent accomplishment is under the supervision of Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH-6)’s construction division with contractor IBC Builders International Corp.

It started last March 29 and is expected to be completed in 210 calendar days.

The scope of work involves the construction of 2.28-kilometer road of 12-meter wide to include clearing and grubbing and embankment.

The road network was conceptualized by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) with the funding from Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC).

The national government has allotted P50-million budget although the project only has a contract cost of P34-million.

Likewise, Treñas said the national government has pledged P50-million to the province’s second district and P30-million to the city for road widening project to the New Iloilo Airport in Sta. Barbara-Cabatuan towns, some 19 kilometers north of city.

source: The Guardian ILOILO (http://www.theguardianiloilo.ph/)

^^ ^^ if all these mentioned above will be realised before the ends of this year, I'll tell you, I so like GMA. he he

Treñas to sit in global e-network
By Jeehan V. Fernandez

ILOILO City Mayor Jerry P. Treñas will sit as representative of Southeast Asia in the executive committee (ExCom) of the International Council for Environmental Initiatives (ICLEI).

In a letter dated July 12, Vic Aquitania, regional director of ICLEI-Local Governments for Sustainability-Southeast Asia Secretariat, invited Treñas to be part of the ExCom.

“As one of our most active local government units and city mayors in the Philippines, we had informed our Secretary General Konrad Otto-Zimmermann that we are recommending you to be an ICLEI ExCom member to represent ICLEI members from Southeast Asia,” Aquitania wrote Treñas.

San Fernando City (La Union) mayor Mary Jane Ortega previously held the post.

“We would feel honored and grateful if you will accept your nomination,” Aquitania told Treñas.

The ExCom, composed of elected local government representatives from all continents—Southeast Asia, Africa, East Asia, Europe, Latin America and Carribean, North America, Ocenia and South Asia—oversees the implementation of ICLEI’s strategic plans and operations.

Treñas appointment to the post requires three endorsements—one from the local government and two from ICLEI members in other regions.

“We believe that aside from bringing your exemplary performance as a local chief executive into the ExCom, your presence will be an assertive voice in sharing the experiences and challenges faced by local governments in developing countries,” Aquitania explained to Treñas.

Treñas said the city has been a recipient of various studies and projects undertaken by ICLEI.

ICLEI is a worldwide association of more than 400 cities working to lessen Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions that are detrimental to the environment.

ICLEI’s mission is to build and serve a worldwide movement of local governments in global sustainability with special focus on environmental conditions through cumulative local actions.

Iloilo City’s implementation of the controversial Perimeter Boundary Ordinance (PBO) in 2005 which limits the entry of provincial public utilities to the city’s major thoroughfares is considered to have saved on fuel, thus lessen the release of carbon dioxide into the air.

The hotly debated traffic ordinance caused inconvenience to the public including additional fare and transportation costs for a double-ride from the perimeter boundary terminals to the city and vice-versa.

Although the PBO has paved way for an estimated savings of 4 million liters of fuel which translates to 11 million kilograms of carbon dioxide avoided annually.

Another accomplishment is the streetlamp retrofitting project—replacing fluorescent lamps with High Pressured Sodium (HPS) lamps that are energy-savers.

The HPS project saved about more than half a million pesos in City Hall’s monthly electric bill.

The city government saves on electricity or fuel, thus avoids emission of about 1.4million kilograms of carbon dioxide a year.

Likewise, the City Environment and Natural Resources Office, promotes the lamp retrofitting in commercial malls; anti-smoke belching campaign; and City Hall’s fuel reduction scheme.

Another novel idea is the use of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) among taxis. Around 300 units have already converted their engines for LPG filling, thus avoiding 6.4million kilograms of carbon dioxide yearly.

source: The Guardian ILOILO (http://www.theguardianiloilo.ph/)

P15-M dam to rise in San Miguel town

ILOILO City – The Department of Agriculture (DA) is opening an additional 400 hectares of irrigated lands for the year in addition to the existing 3,000 hectares already being serviced by the National Irrigation Administration (NIA).

Agriculture Secretary Arthur Yap, during his visit to Iloilo on Friday, said they will put up a dam in San Miguel town that is sufficient enough to service another 400 hectares, which they would launch in December.

Meanwhile, Yap announced the release of some P170 million for the repair and rehabilitation of irrigation systems in Western Visayas.

He cited in particular the DA's target of rehabilitating irrigation system that serviced some 3,000 hectares of the more or less 45,000 hectares of irrigated lands in the province.

Yap is optimistic that they can increase the production yield of farmers in the province with the rehabilitation and repair of the province's irrigation system that would make farmers plant for two cropping season.

“The DA is ensuring that the repair and rehabilitation of water sources is undertaken,” he assured.

from: Panay News
link: http://www.panaynews.com.ph/top%20story4.htm

Nice! Apart from the existing dam... they will try to add a new one... really nice...Actually the current dam provides water for Oton, Pavia and Sta. Barbara and even perhaps part of Cabatuan.

Hmm I'l take a pic of that when I'l take a vacation. :D

I noticed that since last year, the fashion industry in the city is restless. It seems that the younger generation of Ilonggo Fashion designers is speeding up in developing new fashion concepts.

I hope someday we will be called the "Fashion Capital" of the Philippines.

To see more creation of one of the Ilonggo designers - check this http://jakipenalosa.multiply.com/ - Jake Penalosa's Multiply account.

Actually it started since early 2003... where every week a fashion show is held at Robinsons Iloilo. So its been goin on for some time. And even Young Designers from Iloilo winning Competitions in Manila. And lately our very own Ria Bolivar winning the Search for SuperModel.

Robinsons really started it all... and also they are giving a space in the uppermost level of the mall for Arts Exhibit as well.:cheers: :cheers: :cheers:

Treñas stressed that giant call center companies like TeleTech and Sutherland have been working on the establishment of 1,000-seat facilities each in the city.

Thats good news :okay: although hopefully Trenas does not concentrate on attracting BPOs alone but other sectors of employment as well.

Meanwhile, the Metro Iloilo Radial Road project is expected not only to reduce traffic congestion along the Iloilo-Roxas Road, particularly the sections of Iloilo City and Leganes-Zarraga towns but will contribute to the economic development of the area.

The by-pass road starts from the proposed Iloilo Circumferential Road No. 1 and ends about 1.50-kilometer north of Zarraga town proper where it merges with the existing Iloilo-Roxas Road.


Finall, an alternative in going central and northern Iloilo and Panay. tabuc Suba or MacArthur Highway as some call is projected that it can no longer tolerate the increasing volume of traffic, especially peoples coming from the growing north Jaro and Leganes area.

On the other hand, I'm much concerned about southern Iloilo since Oton has the highest population growth in MIGEDC and there is only one major throroughfare coming from the city.


Likewise, Treñas said the national government has pledged P50-million to the province’s second district and P30-million to the city for road widening project to the New Iloilo Airport in Sta. Barbara-Cabatuan towns, some 19 kilometers north of city.

I heard that the widening from Pavia to Santa Barbara would be finished by November. On the other hand, the widening from Bakhaw to Christ the King is something that they have to focus too since these areas are identified as bottlenecks of traffic congestion. Tani padayon lang ini, bisan indi na si Treñas ang mayor ukon si Gloria indi na presidente within 3 years time. Ang budlay sa pulitiuka sa Pilipinas kay waay continuity ang mga proyekto nga maayo kon maglain na sang administrasyon. Tani madayon guihapon ang mga maayong proyekto sa ciudad kag sa probinsya sang Iloilo.

Thats good news :okay: although hopefully Trenas does not concentrate on attracting BPOs alone but other sectors of employment as well.

Finall, an alternative in going central and northern Iloilo and Panay. tabuc Suba or MacArthur Highway as some call is projected that it can no longer tolerate the increasing volume of traffic, especially peoples coming from the growing north Jaro and Leganes area.

On the other hand, I'm much concerned about southern Iloilo since Oton has the highest population growth in MIGEDC and there is only one major throroughfare coming from the city.


I heard that the widening from Pavia to Santa Barbara would be finished by November. On the other hand, the widening from Bakhaw to Christ the King is something that they have to focus too since these areas are identified as bottlenecks of traffic congestion. Tani padayon lang ini, bisan indi na si Treñas ang mayor ukon si Gloria indi na presidente within 3 years time. Ang budlay sa pulitiuka sa Pilipinas kay waay continuity ang mga proyekto nga maayo kon maglain na sang administrasyon. Tani madayon guihapon ang mga maayong proyekto sa ciudad kag sa probinsya sang Iloilo.



Well, right now ILOILO is playing on its STRENGTHS like abundant supply of qualified man power... I do hope Mayor Jerry will also attract MAnufacturing Business and I hope the ILOILO Council will pass a SPECIAL ECONOMIC ZONE resolution for the Airport in Mandurriao... we can surely attract canning and other light industries.

About Oton is part of the circumferential road so we'll see about that in the coming months.... Rest assured all this projects will continue since there is already a Budget for all the projects.... no matter what this will push thru like the New Airport who had gone several administrations...and the flood control project... as long as the BUdget is there...its a SURE THING!:cheers: :cheers: :cheers:

^^ But I didn't see any plans for creating a new road leading to Oton in the 2010 Zoning Map of Iloilo. Thats what I'm worried.

^^ But I didn't see any plans for creating a new road leading to Oton in the 2010 Zoning Map of Iloilo. Thats what I'm worried.

OMG! :ohno:

Really? could it be a mistake?

So far I know that Oton is part of the multibillion Iloilo Circumferential Road...

hmm Berns can you by any chance posts the map? I mean this is really bad for southern ILOILO's development considering Oton has the biggest land area among Metropolitan ILOILO towns... or maybe they could take advantage of Savannah? (the entance is at the oton highway and exit is at Jibao-an, Pavia leading to Mandurriao but this again is a private property)

Tsk tsk tsk considering the volume of traffic going to Iloilo... this would be a traffic headache in 5-7 years... if no NEW route is planned.

^^ The radial road to Oton proper is what I'm worried. In the past 4 years, traffic has increased in the area and there is only one route (Mohon-San Antonio [Iloilo-Antique Road]) going to Oton proper.

There is another rough road along the coastline. After Santo Niño Sur, there is a trail-road leading to the marketplace of Oton. Its isolated and only a few people knows this place.

The circumferential road on the other hand opens new areas for residential development of Oton other than along the Iloilo-Antique Road.

Nami tani kun may amo ta sini nga road network, hu. San-o pa ni ayhan matuman man? :D

http://img329.imageshack.us/img329/1254/iloilomasterplan2yc8.jpg

^^ But I didn't see any plans for creating a new road leading to Oton in the 2010 Zoning Map of Iloilo. Thats what I'm worried.

actually, Bern, this Iloilo Arterial Road is a bit of surprise to all of us. Is this the same plan of creating a Metro Iloilo Cirumferential Road cos by the sounds of it, it's a different entity. However, I'm really glad to note all of these things are happening already in our backyard without anyone noticing them. On whether this is a good surprise coming from the president herself, I'm grateful for all the fundings, etc.

I think another thing happening is the entrance of Sutherland Call Center in Iloilo City. Is this the company Trenas doesn't want to talk about since other countries are vying to scout for investments as well? I can imagine two 1,000 seats call centers to be put up in Iloilo City in a year's time. Where's the location of Sutherland? Indeed this is a great development. In every 1000 seater call center, I think they'll hire more or less 2,000 to 2,500 call center agens as it operates 24h and with 2-3 shiftings per day. Soon, we will be turning into a 24 hr city. For all the efforts, I really thanks Trenas ! Kudos !

OMG! :ohno:

Really? could it be a mistake?

So far I know that Oton is part of the multibillion Iloilo Circumferential Road...

hmm Berns can you by any chance posts the map? I mean this is really bad for southern ILOILO's development considering Oton has the biggest land area among Metropolitan ILOILO towns... or maybe they could take advantage of Savannah? (the entance is at the oton highway and exit is at Jibao-an, Pavia leading to Mandurriao but this again is a private property)

Tsk tsk tsk considering the volume of traffic going to Iloilo... this would be a traffic headache in 5-7 years... if no NEW route is planned.
I hope they'll continue the plan of creating Iloilo Circumferential Road. We're getting there guys. Oton, if I may say has two or three more direct roads to San Miguel town, another member town of MIGEDC. Remember the one in San Antonio and the one near Pepsi Cola? All they need to do is expand and conceretized them into a major thoroughfare. It could not only boost the economic activities within the area but improve accessibility to all other towns to MIGEDC. The one in San Antonio has a direct impact on Tigbauan, Alimodian, Leon and Guimbal whilst the one near Pepsi has a good direct exchanges between San Miguel-Pavia-Oton-Sta Barbara.

Also, Savannah is opening a road from Oton Town Proper with a direct exit in Jibao-an, Pavia. It's within their plan already and I think almost half of it was finished by now. If you visited Savannah, you'll see the road that they want to turn into an alternative road leading to Pavia. Hence some of Savannah's area is for commercial purposes.

^^ Sutherland BPO has branches in MNL and Clark Zone, Pampanga. And its nice to know that they're expanding.

The city, province and especially the private sectors must be aware that we still lack of PEZA accredited IT establishments and have to do something with the expensive yet unreliable power which is a big factor in BPOs (they don't like blackouts since it will hamper transactions with clients). They must make the next move in order for this growth to be sustainable.

I hope they'll continue the plan of creating Iloilo Circumferential Road. We're getting there guys. Oton, if I may say has two or three more direct roads to San Miguel town, another member town of MIGEDC. Remember the one in San Antonio and the one near Pepsi Cola? All they need to do is expand and conceretized them into a major thoroughfare. It could not only boost the economic activities within the area but improve accessibility to all other towns to MIGEDC. The one in San Antonio has a direct impact on Tigbauan, Alimodian, Leon and Guimbal whilst the one near Pepsi has a good direct exchanges between San Miguel-Pavia-Oton-Sta Barbara.

Also, Savannah is opening a road from Oton Town Proper with a direct exit in Jibao-an, Pavia. It's within their plan already and I think almost half of it was finished by now. If you visited Savannah, you'll see the road that they want to turn into an alternative road leading to Pavia. Hence some of Savannah's area is for commercial purposes.

Road that is Oton-San Jose-Santa Barbara is of a big advantage in connecting the southern Iloilo towns to the airport. This road starts from Oton proper and goes all the way to Bangga Dama Santa Barbara (airport junction). If asphalted, it is a new access to central iloilo thus minimizing the travel time of the southerners to the new airport.

^^ The radial road to Oton proper is what I'm worried. In the past 4 years, traffic has increased in the area and there is only one route (Mohon-San Antonio [Iloilo-Antique Road]) going to Oton proper.

There is another rough road along the coastline. After Santo Niño Sur, there is a trail-road leading to the marketplace of Oton. Its isolated and only a few people knows this place.

The circumferential road on the other hand opens new areas for residential development of Oton other than along the Iloilo-Antique Road.
That's right Bern. Oton is the fastest growing MIGEDC member town in terms of population, even beating Iloilo City. I think Oton has the annual population increase of more than 2% compare to Iloilo City's 1.93%. I'm not so sure though but I read it somewhere else hence traffic volume in Oton should be addressed as early as now. Actually, this is a bit odd assessement considering that most new gated communities in Iloilo are situated or located in Pavia. Pavia should be the one with highest influx of urban migration however in all surveys, etc Oton tops the list. And you're right, Oton is the biggest town in MIGEDC followed by Sta Barbara. So watch out for Sta Barbara as well.

^^ At least going to Pavia-Santa Barbara-Leganes has a lot of alternative routes to and fro the city:

Pavia-Santa Barbara
1. Fernando Lopez Highway (main road passing by Ungka and Aganan)
2. Mandurriao-Aleosan Road
3. Old Tacas Road (maybe impassable sometime soon due to ongoing construction).

Leganes
1. MacArthur Highway (TabucSuba)
2. Iloilo-Dumangas Coastal Road
3. Old Tacas Road

but in Oton, there is only one coming from the city
Iloilo-Antique Road

there are 2 trails, one passable only by a motorcycle and the other is a scenic seaside dirt/sand road passable to all vehicles leading to the market of Oton (gwa ni sa John B Arevalo)

^^ Sutherland BPO has branches in MNL and Clark Zone, Pampanga. And its nice to know that they're expanding.

The city, province and especially the private sectors must be aware that we still lack of PEZA accredited IT establishments and have to do something with the expensive yet unreliable power which is a big factor in BPOs (they don't like blackouts since it will hamper transactions with clients). They must make the next move in order for this growth to be sustainable.
i think they're slowly addressing power problems etc as we have an ample of it at present (well, according to some articles with Iloilo City having 99MW capacity right now and with peak need of only 81 to 82 MW). I think Trenas is in constant monitoring regarding the power problem. At least, they are all moving to address this issue.

With regards to PEZA accredited sites, I think the city and provincial government have several plans to erect IT Parks. However, we need more than anything coming from these two. I will say, SM with a bigger land area still to be developed in Iloilo City will by all means thinking of expanding or creating small IT Park. I'm sure though but who would think that SM will house Teletech then? So, plans of expanding or making IT park is not far from my vision for SM City. Activities within Diversion is tremendously increasing. With an entry of Teletech, the area will not only become the shopping and entertainment capital of the city but the IT/BPO capital as well. Give it two years after Teletech operation and you'll see the influx of businesses within Diversion.

Road that is Oton-San Jose-Santa Barbara is of a big advantage in connecting the southern Iloilo towns to the airport. This road starts from Oton proper and goes all the way to Bangga Dama Santa Barbara (airport junction). If asphalted, it is a new access to central iloilo thus minimizing the travel time of the southerners to the new airport.
that's right. It's San Jose, San Miguel. All they need to do is to expand this road into 4-6 lanes possible making it as a major thoroughfare. Sigurado gid ako nga businesses will be in place once they improve the San Jose Road. This will be the major road network of Southern Iloilo going to NIA.

Although at present, the focus of national government is to improve roads from New Iloilo Airport going to BORACAY, being the country's biggest tourism site. Imagine all these tourists utilising NIA for Boracay? Not to mention that tourism industry in Guimaras is improving as well. The purpose of NIA is not for Iloilo itself but for the whole of Panay island. Traffic volume in NIA will soon increased dramatically in 2-3 years time especially if we starts receiving direct international flights. Of course cargoes will greatly improves as well. But then we can only visualized at present. We wnat tangible proofs first. I believe that NIA will have its first direct commercial flights by January 2008. 2008 will be a great milestone for NIA and for Iloilo.

Bidding price of old airport site lowered to P900 M
By Maricar M. Calubiran

The city government and the Department of Finance has agreed to lower the bidding price of the 54-hectare old Iloilo Airport site in Mandurriao district to P900 million.

The new selling price was based on the appraisal of the government and private company. The bidding price was earlier pegged at P1.2 billion.

Atty. Giovanni Miraflores, who represents the city government in the undertaking for the sale of the property, said they are still waiting for the response of the Privatization Council on the new bid price that they have set.

There is no new bidder for the airport site. Though five companies were pre-qualified to bid, only three went to the actual bidding on May 9, 2007.

Robinsons Lands submitted the highest bid of P1.09 billion followed by Empire East (P701 million) and SM Prime (P435.79 million). Rockwell Land Corp. and Ayala Land Inc. backed out.

The Privatization Council is composed of the heads of the Department of Finance, Air Transportation Office, Department of Transportation and Communications, Department of Justice and Department of Budget and Management.

Miraflores said the government is in a hurry to sell the property. Based on the the terms and conditions for the sale of the property, the government will not dip its finger on the relocation of squatter families occupying portions of the 54-hectare airport site.

He also said the portion of the old airport which remained untitled will not be included in the sale since part of it is used as road ways. He, however, did not identify on which portion of the property are untitled and used a road ways.

Earlier, Finance Undersecretary John Philip Sevilla, chair of the bids and awards committee of the Iloilo airport said there are appraisals between P800 million to P1 billion. There is also no law that limits the minimum bidding price to the appraised value.

source: The News Today (http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/07/18/bidding.price.of.old.airport.site.lowered.to.p900m.html)

^^ ^^ inorder to fasttrack the sale, they now decided to lower the bid price of the old airport's site. Paspas na! We need to sell that site now and start developing!

Iloilo could be the fashion capital of our country. :)

Very nice title BUT very hard to maintain. BUt I'll tell you, Iloilo Fashion Industry in on the upswing recently especially the reintroduction of pina products. Slowly, we're back in our feet with all developments ongoing in Iloilo. Thanks x_md.

Panay and Iloilo:
The Allure of a Dowager


The roughly triangular island of Panay, comprising 11, 515 square kilometers, is divided by two cordilleras. One running north-south separates the Antique province from the rest of the island. Its highest peak Mount Madja-as is 2117 meters tall. North of Antique's capital San Jose de Buenavista, another range runs northeast ending in the uplands separating Capiz and Aklan in the north from Iloilo in the south. This cordillera's highest peak is Mount Agudo at 834 meters.

The Hiligaynon language is spoken in the coastal areas, with dialect variations called Capiznon, Antiqueño and Ilongo. A more ancient form of Hiligaynon called Karay-a or Kinaray-a is spoken in the interior, especially in Panay uplands. Aklan has its own language, Akeanon or Aklanon. Two important minority groups occupy the mountainous areas at Tapaz and Passi: these are the dark-skinned Ati (related to the Luzon Ayta) and the Panayanon Bukidnon. Another group called Mundo (corrupted from the Spanish "vagamundos" vagabonds) are probably descendants of coastal peoples who fled to the uplands to escape Spanish colonization.


The beginnings of Panay are shrouded in legend. It is said that ten Bornean datus, under Datu Puti, fled to Panay in search of freedom. There they entered a pact with the Ati chief, Datu Marikudo, to give to the new arrivals the coastal areas in exchange for a golden salakot (a type of hat) and a batya (wash basin). Datu Marikudo's wife, Maniwantiwan, acting shrewdly refused to accede unless the necklace of Datu Puti's wife, Pinangpangan, be given. The Atis agreed to vacate the coastal areas and moved to the mountains. The datus divided the land into Hamtik (Antique), Aklan (Capiz) and Irong-irong (Iloilo) to which Datu Paiburong is named leader. Panay it is said was ruled by two legal codes, the Maragtas, promulgated by Datu Sumakwel ca. 1225 and the Kalantiaw codified in Aklan in 1433.


Historians seriously doubt the veracity of these stories, although a historical marker placed in Batan, Aklan in 1956 by the Philippine Historical Committee accepts the Kalantiaw code as historical fact (See fuller discussion in Islas de los Pintados).


These stories not withstanding, archaeological evidence points to flourishing settlements built on farming, fishing, gathering and trading prior to Spanish colonization. Evidence of Chinese, Arab, Persian and Indian manufacture have been unearthed in numerous burial sites. These include beads, porcelain, etc. Excellent artisans in gold forged jewelry and death masks, an outstanding example, which covered the eyes nose and orifices of the dead, was discovered at Oton. The original is now in the National Museum and considered a national treasure; a replica is displayed in the Museo de Iloilo.


Spaniards first settled in the north at a place called Pan-ay in 1569. Etiological legend says that the name came about when colonizers under Miguel Lopez de Legazpi in search of adequate food supply found abundant rice supplies, they exclaimed: "Hay pan!" from which came the name "Pan-ay." The settlement gave the name to the whole island. Another etiological legend claims that name Iloilo comes from the nose-shaped delta where the Iloilo port was built: irong-irong (like a nose).
Pan-ay as the capital of the Philippines was short lived.

In 1571, the Legazpi decided to transfer the capital to Manila where there was a better harbor and an active trading post. In 1581, Villa de Arévalo was established as a Spanish settlement, under Oton, by Gov. Gen. Ronquillo de Peñalosa and the following year became the capital of Panay Island.

Here, the Spanish established an administrative center and dockyard. (In the early years of colonization, Oton was the name given both to the town and the southern coast and what we know today as Iloilo City was simply called Punta). The British under the buccaneer Thomas Cavendish attacked Arévalo in 1588; and after a series of attacks by the Dutch in 1609, 1614 and 1616, the capital was transferred to Punta where the wide mouth of the Iloilo River, shielded by Guimaras Island provided a safe shelter for ships and a defensible position.


In 1595, Esteban Rodriguez de Figueroa during his campaign to subjugate Mindanao established a supply station in Iloilo. A temporary palisade was built near the river mouth, and in 1616 in response to Dutch threats this was rebuilt as a stone fort, later named Fuerza de San Pedro. The foundations and part of the wall of the fort still stand.
Panay, with the capital at Iloilo remained one political entity until the provinces of Capiz and Antique were established, in 1716 and 1798 (or 96) respectively. Aklan was separated from Capiz as an independent province on 25 April 1956.

The Augustinians were the evangelizers of Panay, having established their first mission in Oton in 1572, the third Augustinian house in the Philippines after Cebu and Manila. The Jesuits arrived as chaplains of the military, established a chapel around 1607 near the fortification at the river mouth.

The Jesuits established a college near the fort, later acquired an hacienda between Molo and Arévalo and at Suaraga (San Joaquin). The Jesuit chronicler Pedro Chirino established a boarding school at Tigbauan in 1592. Although a historical marker of the National Historical Institute placed there in 1975, identifies Tigbauan with the town of the same name, there is no record of the Jesuits being in Tigbauan town because the settlement had always been under the Augustinians who established it as an independent parish in 1578. Although the Augustinian provincial ordered the abandonment of all the Visayan missions in 1580 the order was apparently never implemented because Fr. Luis de Montoya was appointed prior of the town during the same year. The Hiligayonon term "tigbauan" means however a place of reeds, and could be any swampy area along the coast. Jesuits did go to Iloilo but to Suaraga; later jurisdictional conflict between the Augustinians and the Jesuits erupted as Jesuits began evangelizing the Mundos. Chirino may have, in fact, established a boarding school at Suaraga.

Panay's coast was subject to frequent slave raids and so a number of watchtowers were built to protect the coastal settlements. Iloilo served as an important way station for Mindanao, and the fort was used to outfit military expeditions south.

By the 19th century, Iloilo had a thriving weaving industry, cottage-based and funded partially by Chinese entrepreneurs who also marketed the textile. In 1855, Iloilo was opened to international trade after a long period of protectionism. This spurred the economic growth of Iloilo, especially when the market for Philippine sugar was opened in Europe. The British vice-consul, Nicolas Loney, was responsible for promoting the sugar industry by bringing sugarcane from Sumatra, machines from England and extending credit to planters. Loney also imported cloths from India and Manchester, England, which were inexpensive copies of the weaves popular in Iloilo. This spelled the doom of the weaving industry with the subsequent displacement of labor, which was then absorbed by the sugar industry. Loney established Loney and Co., the first foreign firm in Iloilo. Loney also established a shipping company that brought sugar from Negros to the international port of Iloilo. Capiz on the northern coast also participated in the sugar market. Buyers of molasses representing Manila-based distilleries, came to Capiz to buy the product.

The sugar trade attracted Chinese entrepreneurs; outside of Manila and Cebu, Iloilo was one place where the Spaniards allowed the Chinese to settle. The enterprising merchants provided transportation for the sugar and engaged in retail. Some eventually married into the local families and created a mestizo elite. The elite settled in Jaro. The Chinese settled in Molo, where a Chinese mestizo priest, Fr. Manuel Locsin, built a neogothic church in stone which still stands.

Iloilo joined the Revolution against Spain after serving as the Spanish capital for four months, after the capitulation of Manila. The independence of the Philippine was proclaimed in Santa Barbara on 17 November 1898.
By the end of the 19th century, Iloilo City and its suburbs of Jolo, Molo, and La Paz became one of the thriving urban centers of the Philippines. It became a cultural lodestone in the early 20th century so that visiting foreign opera troupes performed at Iloilo. The wealth generated by sugar is expressed in the opulent mansions and residences built by affluent families in Iloilo and Jaro during the first half of the 20th century. A number of foreign firms were established in Iloilo and a railway system linked Iloilo with Capiz to the north. Foreigners established their own exclusive club; the ruins of Club Ingles used to stand near Gen. Hughes St. in Iloilo. The cosmopolitan character of Iloilo catalyzed the construction of the first golf course in the country at Sta. Barbara. The golf course is still operating. Because of her affluence Iloilo came to be known as "Queen City of the South."

Iloilo suffered ruin because of catastrophic earthquakes in 1910 and 1948. One of the casualties was the Greek cross planned neogothic church of Oton, considered as the masterpiece of Augustinian architecture in the island.

Iloilo is a center for education in the Visayas. Here was established the CPU, UP Iloilo, a host of Catholic schools, Assumption, St. Clements, Sagrado Corazon de Jesus.

Iloilo was the site of some of the fiercest battles of World War II which as a consequence caused the widespread destruction of many of its heritage buildings. It was in Iloilo that the guerilla resistance was established and from here spread to the rest of the Visayas. Hence, retaliation was severe.

The post-war years saw the province embroiled in political squabbling, sending Iloilo into decline. Only in the past two decades is Iloilo reawakening with the establishment of a light industry area in Pavia, the building of gated subdivisions, malls, the diversification of crops, and the upgrading of infrastructure. But the province and city is still far from the glitter of its heyday, which still lingers in a city and province so genteel.

Source: Panublion - Ateneo de Manila University (http://www.admu.edu.ph/offices/mirlab/panublion/panay.html)

Actually it started since early 2003... where every week a fashion show is held at Robinsons Iloilo. So its been goin on for some time. And even Young Designers from Iloilo winning Competitions in Manila. And lately our very own Ria Bolivar winning the Search for SuperModel.

Robinsons really started it all... and also they are giving a space in the uppermost level of the mall for Arts Exhibit as well.:cheers: :cheers: :cheers:
he he. That's why I want to create the thread to give a good view of what's happening in Iloilo's rising fashion industry. We used to be very fashionable until we learned our lesson when there's a big economic crashed brought by the fall of sugar. Now, we're slowly back on track. And yes, Iloilo's Pina Fiber is one ofthe best.

I'll try to repost some of the OLD FASHION SHOW from old articles but I'll try to focus what's going on at present for the meantime. I'll continue to review TNT, Panay News and Daily Informer's archives. I'm sure damo pa ina sang features. he he

^^ what a great article. Moreso, I believe in the last paragraph, it just syas it all. The battle and destruction of Iloilo is very surreal yet vehemently true. We can only hope for the best as time goes by. Cheers Bernie.

^^ In other words, madrama guid ang life sang Iloilo. It has risen, fallen and will rise again. :D

^^ he he. Iloilo: The Rising of the Phoenix. Puwede man. Imagine the rich history and culture we had and the very promising future? Iloilo, indeed, is the place to be. No wonder Iloilo is THE HEART OF THE PHILIPPINES.

where is this radial road project exactly, can somebody show me a map where this is being constructed?

A FASHION SENSE WINNER @ ROBINSONS
Zedrick Señeres
PageMaker

http://thedailyguardian.com/images/stories/fash1.jpg http://thedailyguardian.com/images/stories/fash2.jpg http://thedailyguardian.com/images/stories/fash4.jpg http://thedailyguardian.com/images/stories/fash3.jpg

ARMED with her fashion signature inspired by water with colors bursting in waves and droplets made out of gluesticks exquisitely embellished in cool delicate fabrics, the creative young designer Nene Dawn Jover emerged as this year’s grand champion of this year’s fashion competition spearheaded by Robinsons Place Iloilo.

Coming close was 1st runner-up Alfred Jor-el Espina’s woman power-inspired collections which fused modern cuts into futuristic look.

The indigenous creations of Paulo Benito Tugbang won 2nd runner-up plum with his furry hints of metallic trimmings behind the structured look.

Jetting in from Cosmo Manille to judge this one-of-a-kind fashion competition were the general manager of Robinsons Malls Cornelio S. Mapa Jr., Mega Magazine’s fashion editor Patrick Ty, Manila-based designers Tina Daniac and Gian Romano and Iloilo fashion designer Bo Parcon.

http://thedailyguardian.com/images/stories/fash5.jpg http://thedailyguardian.com/images/stories/fash6.jpg http://thedailyguardian.com/images/stories/fash7.jpg http://thedailyguardian.com/images/stories/fash8.jpg

This flamboyant fashion event to hit the fashion runway of the metropolis aptly called Robinsons Place Iloilo Design Lab 2007 - a Search for Iloilo’s Young Designer, is the brainchild production of Robinsons Place Iloilo’s Don Protacio and GM Ditas Taleon.

source: The Guardian ILOILO (http://www.theguardianiloilo.ph/)

Treñas’ SOCA paints
glossy picture of Iloilo
By DAVID ISRAEL SINAY

ILOILO City – Mayor Jerry Treñas likened this city to a “blooming rose”, citing its flourishing economy, social development, environmental management, and good governance.

He attributed these to the teamwork of the different sectors in the city, with the support of the Sangguiniang Panlungsod.

Yesterday, Treñas delivered his State of the City Address (SOCA) at the Sangguniang Panlungsod.

“I ask all of you to be a part of the family that continuously takes care of this beautiful rose – for only through working together and being united can we ensure that it grows to be the most attractive it can be,” Treñas said.

In a half an hour speech, Treñas presented the initiatives under his administration “completed, ongoing or proposed,” for the past six years and for the next three years of his term as this city’s chief executive.

The booming economic industry brought about by the increasing number of investments and new business enterprise was a result of the involvement of the private sector, he said.

Among others, he mentioned the booming business process outsourcing industry and cited the emergence of ePLDT Ventus here, Call Box Customer Contact Center, Echo Customer Contact Center, Global Mega Communications Inc., Techno Call Corp., the medical transcriptionist service with Medlink Transcription Service, and the soon-to-open Teletech and Sutherland Call Center.

Treñas also noted the improved tourism industry brought about by vibrant festivities like the Paraw Regatta, Chinese New Year, and the world-renowned Dinagyang Festival.

This city has also improved mobility and traffic of goods and services to the people, he said, with proper transport planning, road network improvements, construction of access roads, and flyover.

The construction of the P4.2-billion Flood Control Project is expected to be finished by 2010, he revealed. This would mean tremendous relief for the residents of flood-prone areas “whose lives and properties are always imperiled whenever flash flood occurs.”

Under his administration, Treñas said, the city government was able to improve the health and nutrition care delivery systems through the rehabilitation of existing district health centers; construction of additional district and barangay health facilities; full implementation of the Magna Carta for health workers; implementation of city-wide health and nutrition projects (EPI, Iodized Salt distribution, etc); distribution of PhilHealth cards for indigents close to 30,000 households; establishment of urban poor relocation sites through regular lot acquisitions; on-going preparation of a Shelter Plan with assistance from the UN Habitat; and partnership with Couples for Christ and Gawad Kalinga for our Gawad Kalinga sites at Sooc, Arevalo.

He also noted the computerization of the different public elementary and high school and the implementation of the different education initiatives improved the competencies of public school pupils.

Livelihood skills and entrepreneurship training programs were introduced providing employment, he said.

The city government has also improved the different police precincts and facilities including the response of the law enforcement, he added.

Treñas said the city governemnt has also improved its solid waste management programs with the establishment of materials recovery facilities in the metropolis and the ongoing preparations for the establishment of a sanitary landfill with the assistance from GTZ.

For the first six terms of his incumbency, Treñas was able to increase the city’s annual budget from P514.9 million in 2001 to P876.8 million for the year 2007; streamline the business and building permitting process at city hall; computerized the business permits, city treasurer’s and city assessor’s offices; and improved revenue generation.

It has partnered with the Ateneo School of Government and the West Visayas State University introducing a scholarship program for masters degree in Public Management for city hall employees.

Aside from this, under his administration it has generated different foreign-assisted projects from the Australian Agency for International Developmenmt (AusAID) for the Metro Iloilo-Guimaras Integrated Urban Infrastructure Development, the Information Technology Support for Regional Planning and Economic Development, and the Strengthening Capacity for Local Area Development Partnerships.

source: Panay News (http://www.panaynews.com.ph/top%20story3.htm)


Treñas reports Iloilo City’s gains
By Jeehan V. Fernandez

MAYOR Jerry Treñas likened Iloilo City to a blooming flower when he reported his achievements before the Sangguniang Panlungsod Wednesday.

In his State of the City Address (SOCA) delivered before the City Council, Treñas highlighted investments, tourism and giant road network projects that supported the city’s growth.

“Like a blooming rose, the future of Iloilo City is just beginning,” he said.

He attributed the increasing number of investments and new business enterprises to the public-private sector promotions through the Iloilo Local Economic Development Foundation (I-LED), Iloilo Investment Promotion Center (IIPC) and similar partnerships.

Likewise, the mayor said there is an improved incentives packages facilitated through the reconstituted Iloilo Investment Incentives Board and the improved Investment Incentives Ordinance whose preparations were partly funded by the German Technical Cooperation (GTZ).

The City Government’s partnership with the Iloilo Convention and Visitors Bureau to make the city as the convention center in Western Visayas has been actively attracting visitors to the metropolis, he added.

“There is a booming real estate development and specialized focus on emerging new industries and technologies such as the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in the city,” Treñas stressed.

He was referring to the boom of call centers including ePLDT Ventus, Call Box, Echo, Global Mega Communications Inc., Techno Call Corp and Interactive Voice Call Center as well as the introduction of medical transcription firm Medlink Transcription Services.

Treñas was also elated with the entry of the soon-to-open multi-national call center companies Teletech and Sutherland.

The city’s industry also achieved bright spot in wellness centers and spas.

FESTIVAL BOOM

“There are more vibrant festivals including Paraw Regatta and Chinese New Year. At the top is Dinagyang which was adjudged the Best Tourism Event for 2006 by the Association of Tourism Officers (ATOP) in the country, the first festival in the world to be supported by the United Nations in promoting the Millenium Development Goals,” said Treñas.

“Dinagyang has been a consistent major prize winner in the national Aliwan Festival for three consecutive years now. As a world class festival, the Dinagyang tribe also became a guest performer at the Texas Folklife Festival in San Antonio, Texas, USA,” he added.

Treñas said the city had hosted international and national conventions and special celebrations like the Fil-Hispanic Month and the closing ceremonies of the National Heritage Month in May.

Iloilo City has also been spearheading allied tourism promotion programs through the Metro Iloilo-Guimaras Economic and Development Council (MIGEDC).

INFRA PROJECTS

The city mayor likewise pointed out improvements in the mobility and traffic of goods and services through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)-assisted MIGEDC Transport Planning program.

The plan, dubbed as the proposed Metro Iloilo Road Network Improvement Project, involves the widening of the Iloilo-Sta. Barbara Road and construction of a By-Pass Road from Brgy. Tacas, Jaro to Zarraga passing through Leganes.

It also covers the construction of the Circumferential Road 1 to run eastward from Brgy. San Jose, Arevalo; cut across Mandurriao, Pavia, and Jaro; and connects with the Iloilo Coastal Road at Brgy. Buhang, Jaro.

A portion of the proposed radial road has already been funded and presently implemented by the national government.

The city also awaits the completion of first vehicular fly-over at Infante-Gen. Luna streets while the construction now on-going and another one at Jalandoni-Diversion Road area near SM City.

“The construction of the P4.2-billion Iloilo Flood Control Project which is expected to be finished by 2010 will mean tremendous relief for thousands of Ilonggo families whose lives and properties are always imperilled whenever flash floods occur in the city’s flood-prone areas,” Treñas pointed out.

He said even his house and that of councilors Eduardo Peñaredondo and Joe Espinosa III are also affected during the flooding.

Meanwhile, the proposed Iloilo River Boulevard Project will be established starting from Gaisano City area to Jalandoni Bridge passing through Diversion Road to Carpenter’s Bridge in Molo to southwest of the old airport in Mandurriao.

TRAFFIC

Treñas said the establishment of perimeter boundary terminals has helped reduce the number of public utility vehicles at any given time in the city, thus lessen traffic congestion.

To address the worsening traffic problem, Treñas said the city planning and engineering personnel have availed training on Sustainable Urban Transport in Asia and the Pacific in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

“It was an excellent opportunity for the city to learn something about transport system from the country’s Asean neighbors through the City Traffic Management Planning of the CITYNET, a worldwide association of cities,” Treñas affirmed.

He said the proposed JICA-assisted transport and traffic management program will be implemented soon to fine-tune the city’s transportation system.

source: The Guardian ILOILO (http://www.theguardianiloilo.ph/)

Guys, please note the upcoming projects, the ongoing constructions, pouring of investments, etc. Iloilo City is surely on the move. More on Trenas speech please. :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana:

So its confirmed...Sutherland will open up in Iloilo

A special feature courtesy of ABS_CBN that gives an artist's view about the Designers Guild of Iloilo
V-uqzrECqZ0

Wow ! The video says it all ! I'm becoming more and more impressed of Iloilo Fashion Industry and it looks like its getting bigger and bigger. Iloilo was once the hub of fashion during its heydays and I think with the city's rising economic profile, almost all lost industries from the past will surely resurfaced. Remeber, Iloilo remains very high profile when it come to agri products and the tourism is on increasingly valued and given much attention. We just need to maxmise our resources in Iloilo to improve further.

i think it's confirmed now Daks since it is included in Trenas SOCA plus this SOCA will be the basis of GMA's inclusion of Iloilo City in her SONA this coming Monday. I'm sure we'll see more call centers coming to Iloilo in next few months and years. Keep the ball rolling !

SIH now AFP Reserve Command's base hospital
By Kathy M. Villalon

Saviour International Hospital, located at Locsin Street in Molo district, is now a base hospital of the Armed Forces of the Philippines' Reserve Command (AFPRESCOM).

This was realized through a memorandum of agreement signed by representatives from both parties last July 14 at the CAP Auditorium. Bacolod Our Lady of Mercy Specialty Hospital, a sister hospital of SIH was also included in the agreement.

It was agreed that the two hospitals shall allow the hospitalization and treatment of AFPRESCOM employees and their qualified dependents without requiring initial deposit as long as he or she presents the AFPRESCOM identification card.

The AFPRESCOM employees and dependents will also enjoy 10 percent across the board discount after Philhealth charges have been deducted except on hospital packages.

The agreement will be in full force for two years.

SIH was represented by Dr. Evangeline Johnson, chief executive officer and president of SIH and BOLMH while the AFP, by Commodore Fortunato Sagudo Jr. The witnesses were Dr. Victoria Gendrala, medical director of SIH and Dr. George Acepcion, AFP-Medical Corps reserve and in charge of Regional Health Services.

Before the MOA signing, LTC Pacifico Dalisay and Cpt Domingo Oso were appointed to the AFPRESCOM.

The AFPRESCOM is a pre-eminent command dedicated to the total development of the technical services, civil affairs and affiliated reservists in support to the accomplishment of the AFP's mission.

Sagudo Jr said that being commissioned officers, the soldiers of AFPRESCOM are privileged in their undertaking as civilians and soldiers.

He also enjoined members of the command and the AFP as well to serve the community well. "If people would see those in uniform doing good deeds, they will respect and admire the organization. They will consider the military as a bearer of peace and charitable deeds, one that consists of men and women who will risk their lives so others will live in comfort."

source: The News Today (http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/07/18/sih.now.afp.reserve.commands.base.hospital.html)

^^ I don't believe Iloilo City is a "blooming rose"......








But a Rising Phoenix. :D
(nasobrahan na guid sa Harry Potter! hehehe!) :lol:

Treñas’ SOCA paints
glossy picture of Iloilo
By DAVID ISRAEL SINAY

ILOILO City – Mayor Jerry Treñas likened this city to a “blooming rose”, citing its flourishing economy, social development, environmental management, and good governance.

He attributed these to the teamwork of the different sectors in the city, with the support of the Sangguiniang Panlungsod.


In a half an hour speech, Treñas presented the initiatives under his administration “completed, ongoing or proposed,” for the past six years and for the next three years of his term as this city’s chief executive.

Among others, he mentioned the booming business process outsourcing industry and cited the emergence of ePLDT Ventus here, Call Box Customer Contact Center, Echo Customer Contact Center, Global Mega Communications Inc., Techno Call Corp., the medical transcriptionist service with Medlink Transcription Service, and the soon-to-open Teletech and Sutherland Call Center.

Treñas also noted the improved tourism industry brought about by vibrant festivities like the Paraw Regatta, Chinese New Year, and the world-renowned Dinagyang Festival.

This city has also improved mobility and traffic of goods and services to the people, he said, with proper transport planning, road network improvements, construction of access roads, and flyover.

The construction of the P4.2-billion Flood Control Project is expected to be finished by 2010, he revealed. This would mean tremendous relief for the residents of flood-prone areas “whose lives and properties are always imperiled whenever flash flood occurs.”

source: Panay News (http://www.panaynews.com.ph/top%20story3.htm)


Treñas reports Iloilo City’s gains
By Jeehan V. Fernandez

MAYOR Jerry Treñas likened Iloilo City to a blooming flower when he reported his achievements before the Sangguniang Panlungsod Wednesday.

In his State of the City Address (SOCA) delivered before the City Council, Treñas highlighted investments, tourism and giant road network projects that supported the city’s growth.

“Like a blooming rose, the future of Iloilo City is just beginning,” he said.

He attributed the increasing number of investments and new business enterprises to the public-private sector promotions through the Iloilo Local Economic Development Foundation (I-LED), Iloilo Investment Promotion Center (IIPC) and similar partnerships.

Likewise, the mayor said there is an improved incentives packages facilitated through the reconstituted Iloilo Investment Incentives Board and the improved Investment Incentives Ordinance whose preparations were partly funded by the German Technical Cooperation (GTZ).

The City Government’s partnership with the Iloilo Convention and Visitors Bureau to make the city as the convention center in Western Visayas has been actively attracting visitors to the metropolis, he added.

“There is a booming real estate development and specialized focus on emerging new industries and technologies such as the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in the city,” Treñas stressed.

He was referring to the boom of call centers including ePLDT Ventus, Call Box, Echo, Global Mega Communications Inc., Techno Call Corp and Interactive Voice Call Center as well as the introduction of medical transcription firm Medlink Transcription Services.

Treñas was also elated with the entry of the soon-to-open multi-national call center companies Teletech and Sutherland.

The city’s industry also achieved bright spot in wellness centers and spas.

FESTIVAL BOOM

“There are more vibrant festivals including Paraw Regatta and Chinese New Year. At the top is Dinagyang which was adjudged the Best Tourism Event for 2006 by the Association of Tourism Officers (ATOP) in the country, the first festival in the world to be supported by the United Nations in promoting the Millenium Development Goals,” said Treñas.

“Dinagyang has been a consistent major prize winner in the national Aliwan Festival for three consecutive years now. As a world class festival, the Dinagyang tribe also became a guest performer at the Texas Folklife Festival in San Antonio, Texas, USA,” he added.

Treñas said the city had hosted international and national conventions and special celebrations like the Fil-Hispanic Month and the closing ceremonies of the National Heritage Month in May.

Iloilo City has also been spearheading allied tourism promotion programs through the Metro Iloilo-Guimaras Economic and Development Council (MIGEDC).

INFRA PROJECTS

The city mayor likewise pointed out improvements in the mobility and traffic of goods and services through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)-assisted MIGEDC Transport Planning program.

The plan, dubbed as the proposed Metro Iloilo Road Network Improvement Project, involves the widening of the Iloilo-Sta. Barbara Road and construction of a By-Pass Road from Brgy. Tacas, Jaro to Zarraga passing through Leganes.

It also covers the construction of the Circumferential Road 1 to run eastward from Brgy. San Jose, Arevalo; cut across Mandurriao, Pavia, and Jaro; and connects with the Iloilo Coastal Road at Brgy. Buhang, Jaro.

A portion of the proposed radial road has already been funded and presently implemented by the national government.

The city also awaits the completion of first vehicular fly-over at Infante-Gen. Luna streets while the construction now on-going and another one at Jalandoni-Diversion Road area near SM City.

“The construction of the P4.2-billion Iloilo Flood Control Project which is expected to be finished by 2010 will mean tremendous relief for thousands of Ilonggo families whose lives and properties are always imperilled whenever flash floods occur in the city’s flood-prone areas,” Treñas pointed out.

He said even his house and that of councilors Eduardo Peñaredondo and Joe Espinosa III are also affected during the flooding.

Meanwhile, the proposed Iloilo River Boulevard Project will be established starting from Gaisano City area to Jalandoni Bridge passing through Diversion Road to Carpenter’s Bridge in Molo to southwest of the old airport in Mandurriao.

TRAFFIC


source: The Guardian ILOILO (http://www.theguardianiloilo.ph/)

Amo na ya! hataw ILOILO! hataw! Arangka!

These gains are done by the Good Mayor. The result of his hardwork... Just Imagine what ILOILO will be able to achieve if the "Congressman" in ILOILO CITY would work as hard as Mayor Jerry? Just imagine the possibilities the Congressman having more budget at his disposal.... what a power duo it would be!

How I wish matubuan man huya "congressman" ta to do his share... instead of building more OVERPASS why not improve ILOILO City's drainage system, canals and creeks? This would have big impact and will be a dynamic partner of the on going ILOILO FLOOD CONTROL PROJECT? Really this will make more sense cos it will complement each other. Nagbaw ang kanal ta da... padalumon mga tamburong, palaparon kag sementadohon... like here in Makati. Improve the sidewalks as well. paging our congressman!!! :)

yup. iloilo should keep up with the rest of its neighbors(Cebu,Bacolod&Dumaguete) in attracting potential BPO/call center to set up their businesses in the city.

i think it's confirmed now Daks since it is included in Trenas SOCA plus this SOCA will be the basis of GMA's inclusion of Iloilo City in her SONA this coming Monday. I'm sure we'll see more call centers coming to Iloilo in next few months and years. Keep the ball rolling !

I don't like the acronym SOCA. It doesn't sound pleasing to my ears :D. I just hope everything that came out of the mayor's mouth is not SOCA's sound-alike. :lol:

Wow grabi na ine! Inde na mapunggan pa hehehe! GO Go Go ILOILO!

Guys i passed the Drilon Bridge yesterday to Magsaysay going to SM City because of heavy traffic caused by oongoing construction of Infante flyover. Wow grabi im amazed with the improvement of the area, the road is wide, theres an intersection going to diversion road and the other one goes to iloilo sports complex, malapit na matapos ang road. Parang The Fort ang area, its a great place for high rise buildings. Nag add pa gid sang katahum amo ang duha ka mataas nga building sang Medicus kg Iloilo Business Hotel. See it for yourself hehehe!

Treñas’ SOCA paints
glossy picture of Iloilo
By DAVID ISRAEL SINAY

Among others, he mentioned the booming business process outsourcing industry and cited the emergence of Echo[/SIZE][/COLOR][/B] Customer Contact Center, Global Mega Communications Inc., Techno Call Corp., the medical transcriptionist service with Medlink Transcription Service.


Would anyone here know the locations of these call centers? Also, do we have any concrete information about Sutherland, especially their targeted location?


The construction of the P4.2-billion Flood Control Project is expected to be finished by 2010, he revealed. This would mean tremendous relief for the residents of flood-prone areas “whose lives and properties are always imperiled whenever flash flood occurs.”


I don’t believe that they can finish this project by 2010.



Treñas reports Iloilo City’s gains
By Jeehan V. Fernandez

“Like a blooming rose, the future of Iloilo City is just beginning,” he said.



I like this sentence. – “the future of Iloilo City is just beginning” 


The City Government’s partnership with the Iloilo Convention and Visitors Bureau to make the city as the convention center in Western Visayas has been actively attracting visitors to the metropolis, he added.


But we don’t have yet any first-class convention center within the city/province.

“There is a booming real estate development and specialized focus on emerging new industries and technologies such as the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in the city,” Treñas stressed.


This is so true… I hope we can also have some vertical developments.


The city’s industry also achieved bright spot in wellness centers and spas.


Really? Meron na bang wellness centers sa atin? And how many spa centers within the city?



INFRA PROJECTS

The city mayor likewise pointed out improvements in the mobility and traffic of goods and services through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)-assisted MIGEDC Transport Planning program.

The plan, dubbed as the proposed Metro Iloilo Road Network Improvement Project, involves the widening of the Iloilo-Sta. Barbara Road and construction of a By-Pass Road from Brgy. Tacas, Jaro to Zarraga passing through Leganes.

It also covers the construction of the Circumferential Road 1 to run eastward from Brgy. San Jose, Arevalo; cut across Mandurriao, Pavia, and Jaro; and connects with the Iloilo Coastal Road at Brgy. Buhang, Jaro.

A portion of the proposed radial road has already been funded and presently implemented by the national government.

The city also awaits the completion of first vehicular fly-over at Infante-Gen. Luna streets while the construction now on-going and another one at Jalandoni-Diversion Road area near SM City.


Do we have any renderings for these projects and any other information like how long they gonna finish them, etc…

^^ I don't believe Iloilo City is a "blooming rose"......








But a Rising Phoenix. :D
(nasobrahan na guid sa Harry Potter! hehehe!) :lol:

very enchanting descritption of the city in bloom. I think you both are right to describe Iloilo being a rose and a phoenix. Iloilo City is now seeing the dawn for 21st century development. Few decades of sleeping and reflecting is worth the wait. I hope to see more developments in Iloilo as the years go by. As Trenas says, this is just the beginnning.

Amo na ya! hataw ILOILO! hataw! Arangka!

These gains are done by the Good Mayor. The result of his hardwork... Just Imagine what ILOILO will be able to achieve if the "Congressman" in ILOILO CITY would work as hard as Mayor Jerry? Just imagine the possibilities the Congressman having more budget at his disposal.... what a power duo it would be!

How I wish matubuan man huya "congressman" ta to do his share... instead of building more OVERPASS why not improve ILOILO City's drainage system, canals and creeks? This would have big impact and will be a dynamic partner of the on going ILOILO FLOOD CONTROL PROJECT? Really this will make more sense cos it will complement each other. Nagbaw ang kanal ta da... padalumon mga tamburong, palaparon kag sementadohon... like here in Makati. Improve the sidewalks as well. paging our congressman!!! :)

The city congressman is busy with his parlour game, something where he can gain money with. In all his six years being the city's congressman, Raul did not contribute anything bigger to improve the city's economy. How I wish Iloilo City residents will not be bought in 2010 elections and reflect on Raul's works at present whether or not he is an asset or an ass**it of the city. The city needs a working congressman with passion to develop the city more to meet the demands of time but Raul, I could not find any reason why people still vote for him. IMO, there's no better wannabees anyway, that's why. Maybe Trenas can run for congressman next time and Mabilog to become the new city mayor. I think Trenas and Mabilog team is really good. It's their teamwork that brought city to where it is at present.


I don't like the acronym SOCA. It doesn't sound pleasing to my ears :D. I just hope everything that came out of the mayor's mouth is not SOCA's sound-alike. :lol:

he he. It's a short cut for State of the City Address. That's right though, it doesn't sound good to the ear. he he

Wow grabi na ine! Inde na mapunggan pa hehehe! GO Go Go ILOILO!

Guys i passed the Drilon Bridge yesterday to Magsaysay going to SM City because of heavy traffic caused by oongoing construction of Infante flyover. Wow grabi im amazed with the improvement of the area, the road is wide, theres an intersection going to diversion road and the other one goes to iloilo sports complex, malapit na matapos ang road. Parang The Fort ang area, its a great place for high rise buildings. Nag add pa gid sang katahum amo ang duha ka mataas nga building sang Medicus kg Iloilo Business Hotel. See it for yourself hehehe!
nice development, Collin. I could not imagine to see Iloilo City in 5 years time. It seems that there's a lot of changes in the city recently that anybody from outside going home after 10 years will surely be amazed with the changes of Iloilo. Imagine seeing all these flyovers, new roads, bigger establishments, call centers, 24 hour lifestyle, the fashion, etc. Iloilo is definitely making waves on our country's economy and will even do more with the upcoming developments brought by our new airport especially when the international commercial planes starts their operation in the New Iloilo Airport.

Would anyone here know the locations of these call centers? Also, do we have any concrete information about Sutherland, especially their targeted location?



I don’t believe that they can finish this project by 2010.




I like this sentence. – “the future of Iloilo City is just beginning” 



But we don’t have yet any first-class convention center within the city/province.


This is so true… I hope we can also have some vertical developments.



Really? Meron na bang wellness centers sa atin? And how many spa centers within the city?




Do we have any renderings for these projects and any other information like how long they gonna finish them, etc…
that's right Soul. We have no idea that aside from the famous three call centers - ePLDT, CallBox, Echo - Iloilo has three more hidden call centers in the backyard and one medical transcription company. Their location are unanimous but I'm thinking two in three is situated in Jaro district.

I agree with putting up a world class convention center. Any concrete plan coming from the capitol regarding the province's convention facility in Bonifacio Drive?

Other than investments, infrastructures such as road widening, opening new roads and routes, etc are also in th eupswing. Brilliant, brilliant, indeed.

3,300 seedlings planted at nat’l park

ILOILO City – In line with the Green Philippines Program (GPP), an additional 3,300 seedlings were planted by members of the 6th Regional Community Defense Group (6RCDG) of the Philippine Army (PA) and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in their second of a series of tree planting activities.

The tree planting activity was held at the Bulabog Puti-an National Park, situated in Dingle, Iloilo which is now being developed as an eco-tourism park by the DENR and the host local government unit (LGU).

The series of tree planting activities will be held continuously in six months with the participation of non-government organizations, government agencies, students, youth organizations, and the media.

Officials of the DENR and the 6th RCDG found Bulabog Puti-an a fitting venue for the activity as it has been a host to century-old trees and some species endemic in the area.

The tree planting activity was participated in by ROTC cadets from the West Visayas State University, Pototan Campus and the Department of Public Works and Highways.

Likewise, Col. Roger C. Diaz, Group Commander of the 6th RCDG, Director Alicia L. Lustica, Ph.D of the DENR, Iloilo Governor Niel Tupas and Dingle Vice Mayor Revlon Lacson were present during the occasion.

To recall, the DENR and the PA inked an agreement last month to join efforts in support to the GPP.

source: Panay News (http://www.panaynews.com.ph/top%20story3.htm)

Headlines kagahapon, subong ang broadcast:
http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/8/photos/28/500x500/16.jpg/Fan%21.jpg?et=X1HxZYrxndFMs1gy59ZQzw
Isa ka babayi, yara sa tunga sang tribu...nagtalang!
:lol:
Dinagyang Festival (January 2007). Iloilo City Philippines

http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/8/photos/47/500x500/48/P1130252.JPG?et=e4sd0qDDuSoqHATFRDbwWQ
Iglesia de Santa Ana de Molo. Distrito de Molo, Ciudad Iloilo

http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/3/photos/16/500x500/95/P1120935.JPG?et=tDMY4W3LoG6lMu0b9Ithyg
Iloilo City Fish Port, Iloilo City

http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/11/photos/16/500x500/78.jpg/Sunset%20sa%20Iloilo.jpg?et=LRZCPHLcf4Y7%2BTrcwzOoOA
The sun sets at Bernie Miaque's place, maybe his sun was also setting with his business with the airport. ;) Mandurriao, Iloilo City (February 2007)

http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/11/photos/16/500x500/59.jpg/Skimboarding%20in%20Iloilo%20City.jpg?et=fiATUjQGVY7SfO8g3f%2CjZA
Skimboarding at Villa Beach, La Villa Rica de Arevalo District, Iloilo City

http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/11/photos/16/500x500/62.jpg?et=%2CYFGgntzdl0F6N1RgarQBA
I think I reposted this already. Mayor Jerry Treñas during the Fil-Sino New Year festivities in the city (February 2007)

http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/5/photos/16/500x500/94/P1120908.JPG?et=xv%2CiOtWL8bmnbeT4eD7uOQ
Calle Real-Iznart. Iloilo City May 2007

http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/1/photos/16/500x500/96/Image00030.jpg?et=1D1rw2VqmKShweMoY4vAcA
Anyone trying to invade the Iloilo Provincial Capitol shall face first the fury of these old cannons from the ruins of Fuerza San Pedro, hehehe!!! :lol:
Museo Iloilo and Iloilo Provincial Capitol, Iloilo City (May 2007)

^^ first and foremost, thanks for all the updates. Trenas State of the City Address is the highlight of this week news. We have amazing developments ongoing and waiting for all of us in Iloilo City and that what makes it all different. If you look at the list, the message is very inspiring to each and everyone. It gives hope and better future for all our kababayans left in Iloilo City at present. I just wish all these good things happening will bear more fruitful years for all of us.

^^ In other words, madrama guid ang life sang Iloilo. It has risen, fallen and will rise again. :D

^^ he he. Iloilo: The Rising of the Phoenix. Puwede man. Imagine the rich history and culture we had and the very promising future? Iloilo, indeed, is the place to be. No wonder Iloilo is THE HEART OF THE PHILIPPINES.

Guys, please note the upcoming projects, the ongoing constructions, pouring of investments, etc. Iloilo City is surely on the move. More on Trenas speech please. :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana:

So its confirmed...Sutherland will open up in Iloilo

i think it's confirmed now Daks since it is included in Trenas SOCA plus this SOCA will be the basis of GMA's inclusion of Iloilo City in her SONA this coming Monday. I'm sure we'll see more call centers coming to Iloilo in next few months and years. Keep the ball rolling !

I could not wait for that SONA to be published. GMA has so much things to mention on her SONA with all the accomplishments she have recently.

I think these call centers will define the city's lifestyle in the next few years to come. If the city will be hosting 10 or more call centers, imagine the growth of activities coming from these middle income group of professionals? They're spending capacity and increase of income, not to mention the effect it will bring to the city's power sector and other businesses as well.

Can joint venture w/ private
firm save housing project?
By DAVID ISRAEL SINAY

ILOILO City – The city government plans a joint venture with a private company to save the stalled Iloilo City Employees Housing Project in Pavia town.

But Mayor Jerry Treñas said they first have to wait for the recommendation of the Commission on Audit (COA) on whether the city government should pay the project contractor, Ace Builders Enterprises (ABE).

The city government stopped paying ABE for some four years now after discovering that substandard materials were used in building the housing units.

With the planned joint venture, Treñas said the city government will no longer be burdened with the construction of the remaining housing units.

Last April 30, 2007, the city government completed paying its multi-million peso loan from a government bank to finance what has sadly become a useless and wasted housing project.

The city government inked a P130 million loan from the Philippine Veterans Bank but was only released with P80.399 million after the contractor abandoned the project sometime in 2002.

As of now, the housing units are crumbling and are left to the mercy of the elements and looters. The project, located in Brgy. Ungka II, Pavia, Iloilo, targeted 413 houses for city government employees.

In its previous years’ audit reports, the COA had recommended that the city government take immediate action to avert further loss of funds and deterioration of the housing units.
The contractor stopped working after the city government stopped paying it.

The city government started payment on November 2002. It paid P24,765,261.52 for the interest of the loan; and P706,465.01 for taxes. In sum, the city government paid P105,8870,726.53 to the Philippine Veterans Bank for the actual P80.399 million loan.

from: Panay News
link: http://www.panaynews.com.ph/top%20story5.htm

Quiñon of Iloilo wins 2007 TOSP Award

These things do not happen overnight –that is, being chosen as one of the winners of the 2007 Ten Outstanding Students of the Philippines. For Mary Kathryn V. Quiñon, of Jaro, Iloilo City, being an outstanding student started all the way from her elementary and high school years. Back then, she was already an honor student and an active student leader.

Mary Kathryn bloomed at the College of Management in UP in the Visayas. The challenge of being enrolled in a five-year BS Accountancy program did not deter her from being actively involved in the activities of various student organizations. In her freshman year, she was the 1st Year Batch Representative for the CM Student Council, 1st Year member of the Board of Directors for the JPIA- UPV Chapter, and the 1st Year Batch Representative for the Youth for Christ, UPV Chapter.

In her sophomore year, she was the Press Relations Officer of the CM Student Council, the 2nd Year Batch Representative for the Youth for Christ, UPV Chapter, and the Secretariat for the Kasama sa UP Visayas.

While serving as the Secretary General of the UPV-JPIA, Inc. in her third year, the organization was awarded as one of the 2005 Ten Accomplished Youth Organizations (TAYO) at the National Level. Katherine also served as the Director for Planning and Resource of the UPV Laboratory Cooperative.
The call to serve continued for Katherine in her senior year. While President of the UPV-JPIA, Inc., the organization was cited as the 2006 Most Outstanding Local Chapter for Region VI by the WVFJPIA, Inc. and the Best Student Organization by UPV. In the same year, she was the Convenor of the 8th National Ayala Young Leaders Congress – ALAB (Batch ’06), the VP for Finance of the Iloilo Federation of JPIA (IFJPIA), and the VP for Finance of the UPV Catholic Voice.

During her fifth year, Katherine was elected Chairperson of the College of Management Student Council, member of the Board of Directors of the UPV Laboratory Cooperative, and the Finance and Marketing Officer, Ayala Young Leaders Alumni – Iloilo. She was also the Project Organizer and Over-all Head of BISTE, a CM Student Council Fashion Show for a Cause wherein entrance to the show was through five educational books for the CM Student Council Adopt-a-Community Project. In addition, she served as Production Head for the CM Play Festival 2006 and was the Student Representative in the Search Committee for Dean of the School of Technology, UPV.

It was in April of this year that Mary Katherine graduated cum laude in the BS Accountancy program of the College of Management. She continues to give honor and distinction not only to her family but also to her alma mater as well.
No less than President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo handed out the trophies to Quiñon and the nine other winners in a simple ceremony at the Malacañang Palace on July 5, 2006.

To be a TOSP awardee, one has to be noted for one’s academic excellence, exemplary leadership, community involvement , and good moral values. Katherine has all these and more. It was a well-deserved award indeed.(Lyncen M. Fernandez; UPV-IPO)

*****

Iloilo CSO's completed comprehensive training on GPRA

The Civil Society Organization in Iloilo completes today the 5-day training on the Government Procurement Reform Act sponsored by Procurement Watch Inc. (PWI) in a joint project with the Office of the Ombudsman (OMB), held at Sarabia Manor Hotel and Convention Center which started July 16 and concludes today, July 20, 2007.

Among the CSO's present were from the Municipalities of Bingawan and Banate, Sigma, Capiz; Passi City; Iloilo Caucus of Development NGO's (ICode) and the Freedom from Debt Coalition (FDC).

The series of trainings was conducted in major cities nationwide with the funding support of the European Commission. The Iloilo leg is the last venue of the training - Capacitating Civil Society Organizations' Procurement Trainers, Observers, and Monitors.

"We are delighted that the participants actively participated and the course is successfully carried out," said Director Ador Paulino of the Project Task Force formed by the Office of the Ombudsman and the European Commission.

According to Director Paulino, "the course consisted of 12 training courses in a module namely: training of trainers, training of observers and training of monitors and aims to equipped participants to become trainers on the provisions of the Government Procurement Reform Act and its Implementing Rules and Regulations."

Likewise, "the training aspired to aid the participants' understanding on the prescribed procedures and rules governing contract implementation, and to appreciate the techniques and strategies of monitoring contract implementation," added Director Paulino.

The training was also attended by around twenty 20 government officials and 15 representatives of civil society organizations (CSOs) in the City and Province of Iloilo and with participants coming from as far as Mindanao and Manila.

Among the government agencies that attended the training were from the Bureau of Fire Protection, the Department of Budget and Management, Department of Public Works and Highways, National Irrigation Administration and the Regional Office of the Visayas Ombudsman.

Iloilo water firm saves Php 74M from rehab project

The Metro Iloilo Water District (MIWD) incurred a Php 74-million savings from its Php 207 million rehabilitation program.

MIWD Board Director Atty. Eduardo Agullion said the money will be spent in different proposed projects in line with the water district's rehabilitation program.

These include the construction of a by-pass line at the water treatment plant amounting to Php 1.1 million, construction of reservoir and treatment facility with booster pump station in Oton which amounted to Php 1.1 million and Leganes for Php 5 million.

They also intend to install transmission pipelines amounting to Php 16.1 million in Pavia-Jaro; improvement of dam intake and riverbank protection; construction of booster pump station and sump tank for Oton and San Miguel well fields and loop lines to balance system pressure; construction of gas station and warehouse and chemical storage buildings amounting to Php 10 million and construction of 200-cubic meter elevated tank for Sta. Barbara and Pavia.

Aguillion said a scheme that they used helped them in incurring such big savings. The bidding was done accordingly. The water district was able to get the lowest cost and got the best and lowest price in the procurement of materials. (PNA)

from: The Iloilo Daily Informer
link: http://dailyinformer.info/index.php?option=com_content&task=section&id=13&Itemid=132

Wow ! The video says it all ! I'm becoming more and more impressed of Iloilo Fashion Industry and it looks like its getting bigger and bigger. Iloilo was once the hub of fashion during its heydays and I think with the city's rising economic profile, almost all lost industries from the past will surely resurfaced. Remeber, Iloilo remains very high profile when it come to agri products and the tourism is on increasingly valued and given much attention. We just need to maxmise our resources in Iloilo to improve further.

^^

liked the video! more please and soon our Hablon products will penerate the international market. All I know is that it is being exported to UK..:)

Can joint venture w/ private
firm save housing project?
By DAVID ISRAEL SINAY

ILOILO City – The city government plans a joint venture with a private company to save the stalled Iloilo City Employees Housing Project in Pavia town.

But Mayor Jerry Treñas said they first have to wait for the recommendation of the Commission on Audit (COA) on whether the city government should pay the project contractor, Ace Builders Enterprises (ABE).

The city government stopped paying ABE for some four years now after discovering that substandard materials were used in building the housing units.

With the planned joint venture, Treñas said the city government will no longer be burdened with the construction of the remaining housing units.

Last April 30, 2007, the city government completed paying its multi-million peso loan from a government bank to finance what has sadly become a useless and wasted housing project.

The city government inked a P130 million loan from the Philippine Veterans Bank but was only released with P80.399 million after the contractor abandoned the project sometime in 2002.

As of now, the housing units are crumbling and are left to the mercy of the elements and looters. The project, located in Brgy. Ungka II, Pavia, Iloilo, targeted 413 houses for city government employees.

In its previous years’ audit reports, the COA had recommended that the city government take immediate action to avert further loss of funds and deterioration of the housing units.
The contractor stopped working after the city government stopped paying it.

The city government started payment on November 2002. It paid P24,765,261.52 for the interest of the loan; and P706,465.01 for taxes. In sum, the city government paid P105,8870,726.53 to the Philippine Veterans Bank for the actual P80.399 million loan.

from: Panay News
link: http://www.panaynews.com.ph/top%20story5.htm

I just hope so... nugon sang gingasto diri kung sa wala lang makadto...

Hopefully Mayor Jerry will find a way to recoup the expenses! The money could be used to fund other projects for ILOILO City.

i wonder if ABE could be held liable for using substandard materials in constructing those housing units?

Iloilo City fast becoming an IT center in WV

The efforts of the city government to make this part of the country a center for IT industry are now paying off with six call centers in operation and two more giant companies coming in. Iloilo City Mayor Jerry P. Treñas said Iloilo City will again be included in the State of the Nation Address of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo this Monday.

In addition to her mentioning of the P50-million Metro Iloilo Radial Road being one of her priority projects in Iloilo, President Arroyo will also underscore the role of this city in enhancing the Information Technology industry.

Giant firm, Sutherland Global Services has already visited this city last week. Representatives from the group signified their interest to relocate in Iloilo and open an initial 1,000 seats.
Likewise, Teletech, which has branches in Bacolod and Cebu, will also open another branch in Iloilo City this third quarter of 2007 with 1,000 seats available.

At present Iloilo City hosts ePLDT Ventus, Call Box Customer Contact Center, Echo Customer Contact Center, Global Mega Communications Inc., Techno Call Corp and the Interactive Voice Call Center.

Medlink Transcription Services which is into medical transcriptions is also here in the city.

Iloilo City is also included in the cyber hub of the country aside from its being a key player in the tourism industry under the super region concept of the Arroyo Administration. (PNA)

Hala bira! Arangka ILOILO!:banana: :banana: :banana:

Locations:

Call Centers:

ePLDT Ventus - Iloilo Supermart (Molo Plaza)
Call Box CCC - Emmanuel Bldg. (Diversion Road)
Echo CCC -
Global Mega Comm. Inc. -
Techno Call Corp -
Interactive Voice CC - Century 21 Hotel (Quezon St.)
Tele Tech - SM City ILOILO (Diversion Road) u/c
Sutherland -

Medical Transcription:

Medlink Transcription Services - ATM Bldg. (Ledesma St.)

Please kindly add if anybody knows the location. TY.

^^Wow! Hala-Bira Iloilo! PasPas na!!! :cheers2:

Echo CCC:

ECHO Locations:

ECHO California
ECHO

29316 Chance St., Hayward
California 94544
USA


Phone: +1 510 315 2134
+1 510 780 0620

Fax: +1 510 315 0489



ECHO Iloilo
ECHO

JBLCF Compound, M. H. Del Pilar St.
Molo, Iloilo City
Philippines, 5000

Description:
ECHO offers the following products and services:

- Customer Care
ECHO's customer care services are initiated by inbound calls and e-mail from customers with a wide range of answers to questions regarding account billing, changes in services, reservation changes, delivery updates on goods and services, handling of complaint and issue resolution, and general product or service inquiries.

- Inbound Sales
ECHO handles inbound calls from customers regarding product purchasing, service order, travel reservation, telecommunication services, Internet services, and customer product and services. ECHO's professional personnel are specifically trained to identify opportunities to "up-sale" and "cross-sale" other products and services offered by the clientele.

- Technical Support
ECHO has a core of trained and professional personnel to discharge the handling of troubleshooting calls, responding to software and hardware problems, and providing support for Internet service-related problems, managing corporate help desk, and extending warranty and post-warranty support.

- Direct Response Sales Services
Direct response sales services involve handling inbound telephone orders or inquiries for clients in the direct marketing industry, including those calls received in response to print advertisements, infomercials, and other electronic media. ECHO's professional answers to queries and process orders for the purchase of products and services of ECHO's clientele would further enhance sales and volume of business operation through the identification of opportunities to "up-sell" and "cross-sell" other products and services.

- Hosting Services
ECHO can host and maintain customer interaction sections of its clientele's websites, including e-mail services, live web chat, and Internet self-help applications.

- Outsourcing Center
ECHO has developed an integrated offshore Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) platform that includes some outsourcing centers and data centers in the Philippines and soon in the United States. Through ECHO operations in the Philippines, ECHO can provide significant values to its clientele by offering high quality services that is cost-effective and highly competitive to the alternative U.S. outsourcing centers.


ECHO's Mission:
ECHO shall commit to excellence, flexibility, reliability and integrity in providing Information and Communication Technology (ICT) services to business for them to be able to optimize their business opportunities, evolve cost-effective solutions that will enhance productivity and promote growth to the greater satisfaction of their clientele being served in the global market.

ECHO's Vision:
ECHO envisions itself to be in the forefront of telecommunication industry that links business and industry to its clientele anywhere, anytime for greater efficiency and cost effectiveness, productivity, growth, and institutional profitability.

URL: http://www.echo-services.com/

Pictures from a tree planting activity in Tubungan

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1398/862934074_339c06d173.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1015/862074549_a184de9d0a.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1116/862074143_2d3e305c9e.jpg

dunno if I have posted this:

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1217/560300770_af1aa8e2d5_b.jpg

Iloilo City fast becoming an IT center in WV

The efforts of the city government to make this part of the country a center for IT industry are now paying off with six call centers in operation and two more giant companies coming in. Iloilo City Mayor Jerry P. Treñas said Iloilo City will again be included in the State of the Nation Address of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo this Monday.

In addition to her mentioning of the P50-million Metro Iloilo Radial Road being one of her priority projects in Iloilo, President Arroyo will also underscore the role of this city in enhancing the Information Technology industry.

Giant firm, Sutherland Global Services has already visited this city last week. Representatives from the group signified their interest to relocate in Iloilo and open an initial 1,000 seats.
Likewise, Teletech, which has branches in Bacolod and Cebu, will also open another branch in Iloilo City this third quarter of 2007 with 1,000 seats available.

At present Iloilo City hosts ePLDT Ventus, Call Box Customer Contact Center, Echo Customer Contact Center, Global Mega Communications Inc., Techno Call Corp and the Interactive Voice Call Center.

Medlink Transcription Services which is into medical transcriptions is also here in the city.

Iloilo City is also included in the cyber hub of the country aside from its being a key player in the tourism industry under the super region concept of the Arroyo Administration. (PNA)

Hala bira! Arangka ILOILO!:banana: :banana: :banana:

Locations:

Call Centers:

ePLDT Ventus - Iloilo Supermart (Molo Plaza)
Call Box CCC - Emmanuel Bldg. (Diversion Road)
Echo CCC -
Global Mega Comm. Inc. -
Techno Call Corp -
Interactive Voice CC - Century 21 Hotel (Quezon St.)
Tele Tech - SM City ILOILO (Diversion Road) u/c
Sutherland -

Medical Transcription:

Medlink Transcription Services - ATM Bldg. (Ledesma St.)

Please kindly add if anybody knows the location. TY.
Nice one. Do you have any info regarding the number of seats each call center have?

UP celebrates 60th year in Iloilo
By Nestor P. Burgos Jr.

MIAG-AO, ILOILO--The University of the Philippines marks its 60th year in Iloilo with a week-long celebration on July 23-27.

The commemoration will be opened on Monday with lectures, a photo exhibit and a book fair at the UP in the Visayas Iloilo City campus.

On Tuesday, members of the faculty and staff will hold a presentation dubbed "Pasundayag 2007."

The next day, students will hold a street painting contest at the Miag-ao campus which will precede a forum with the UP Student Regent, lectures and service awards for UPV employees. A street party will be held in the evening.


On Thursday, a forum on the impact of climate change on fisheries will be held by the Colleges of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences at the Iloilo Grand Hotel. Award-winning short films by UPV students will be shown at the Interactive Learning Center at the Miagao campus.

The Faculty Regent will hold a forum with faculty members at the Iloilo campus on the same day. The CFOS will also hold an alumni homecoming at the Iloilo Grand Hotel in the evening.

On Friday, students will hold a float parade in Miag-ao. The Board of Regents will hold its meeting at the CFOS Umali Hall at the Miagao campus.

The commemoration will be capped with an alumni and faculty homecoming at the Amigo Terrace Hotel.

The plan of putting up a UP unit in Iloilo was concretized on December 18, 1945, after the Municipal Board of Iloilo authorized a resolution for the opening of a UP branch in Iloilo City on what was then the site of the Iloilo City Hall. A year and seven months later, on July 1947, the University of the Philippines Iloilo College (UPIC) was established.

The UPIC started with a Lower Division, which offered third and fourth year high school education, and the Upper Division, which accepted first and second year college students.

It started offering baccalaureate and masters degree programs in the 1950s and the 1960s. Seven years after it opened, UPIC earned the status of being a full college and was renamed UP College Iloilo (UPCI) in 1954, offering undergraduate and graduate degree programs including a four-year high school education through its UP High School in Iloilo

In the early 1970s, The UP administration had envisioned an autonomous unit that would become the country's premier institution for fisheries and marine science education and research.

On May 31, 1979, the UP Board of Regents approved the establishment of an autonomous unit that would integrate the UPCI and the College of Fisheries in UP Diliman. But it was four years later, on July 25, 1983, that former UP President and now senator Edgardo Angara issued Executive Order No. 9 establishing the UP in the Visayas with Dr. Dionisia Rola as the first chancellor.

From a college in its first campus in Iloilo City, UPV has now four campuses with five colleges and once school covering the three regions in the Visayas. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate courses in fisheries education, the arts and sciences, environment and technology, and management.

The main campus is located in the scenic 1,000-hectare site in Miag-ao town 42 km south of Iloilo City. The campus, surrounded by lush vegetation and trees overlooking the shoreline of the town, host the College of Arts and Sciences, College of Fisheries and the School of Technology.

UPV has maintained its original site in Iloilo City which is home to the UPV High School and the College of Management. UPV alumni years ago had vehemently opposed the proposal to revert the campus to the city government.

The satellite campuses of UP Cebu College and UP Tacloban were integrated into the UPV administration in 1986 and were renamed UPV Cebu College and UPV Tacloban College.

Established in 1918, UPV Cebu College is the oldest regional unit even if it was closed and reopened several time.

The UPV Tacloban, established in 1973, was set up as a necessary component in the socio-economic growth and progress of the Eastern Visayas.

The unit has now nearly 5,000 students in its four campuses and produces around 1,000 graduates annually coming mostly from the Visayas and Mindanao.

UPV Chancellor Glenn Aguilar, the seventh administrator of the unit, said the main contribution of the UP in the community is the thousands of graduates and professionals who are now occupying top management positions in the various levels of government, business firms, educational institutions and media organizations.

The Commission on Higher Education (CHEd) this year gave four National Centers for Excellence/Development awards to UPV for Fisheries, Marine Science, Biology and Information Technology (UPV College Cebu)

The university has also contributed significantly through its research and extension services including regional studies programs on the preservation and enrichment of the cultural heritage.

The Iloilo City campus hosts the Center for West Visayan Studies, Office of Extension Services and Continuing Education, Sentro ng Wikang Filipino, Graduate Program Office, Language Program, School for Distance Education, Visayas, Ugnayan sa Pahinungod/Oblation Corps, and the UPV Women's Desk.

The university played a key role in the response to last year's massive oil spill that struck Guimaras Island and parts of Iloilo. It is also at the forefront in the rehabilitation and monitoring efforts as the designated repository of data and clearing house for all researches related to the oil spill.

Aguilar said the UPV will do its share in coming out with protocols and plans to respond to future oil spills in the country and how to protect and rehabilitate the affected environment and community.

from: The News Today
link: http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/07/20/up.celebrates.60th.year.in.iloilo.html

Iloilo is definitely a FASHION HAVEN !
GO, go, go ILOILO !:cheers:

^^ Malas, wrong timing ko subong! Anyway, I will not miss next year's alumni homecoming since it'll be once in a lifetime: The Centennary of the foundation of University of the Philippines (1908-2008)

Anyway, expect this if Iloilo City has a high resolution Google Earth pictures:
http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/4/photos/48/orig/15/P1130974.JPG?et=iLWDHNboDmc6LkV%2B94hnxg
Waterfront District

http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/4/photos/48/orig/16/P1130975.JPG?et=vzm0rFaexk%2CbsyOfD9HSvw
Downtown Iloilo City

http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/3/photos/48/orig/17/P1130976.JPG?et=AhEO9t4sLyam7l%2Cnz2M2EQ
Western sector of City Proper District, Smallville and San Rafael Mandurriao District and eastern and central Molo District

http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/2/photos/55/500x500/46/P1130977.JPG?et=YA9B%2BYfyySAt3WPqbaGgEw

http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/2/photos/55/500x500/47/P1130978.JPG?et=%2CzyP9Txv0Zcmoou1auMg1A

http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/2/photos/55/500x500/48/P1130979.JPG?et=uApdegkyN7rmEu7jeFC7Ag

http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/2/photos/55/500x500/50/P1130982.JPG?et=mZb9Go1fhDoFIULQ9%2BKJyw

http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/2/photos/55/500x500/51/P1130983.JPG?et=7Rkij4Ao8%2C0SjOhwrWIhVg

http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/2/photos/55/500x500/52/P1130984.JPG?et=ebWvVo2%2BZqnFYLBYMzW68w

http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/2/photos/55/500x500/54/P1130986.JPG?et=lGZinjoBkU8N1EI%2CXqogpg

http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/2/photos/55/500x500/55/P1130987.JPG?et=XgVpkQwr2O789ITCCoDgXw

http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/3/photos/55/500x500/56/P1130988.JPG?et=a%2Bn36WIfEREfki6zzXKr7w

http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/2/photos/55/500x500/58/P1130990.JPG?et=hIR8MvQAh8qlFDHRtoj3FA

The project was delayed due to bad weather. It is expected to be finished by September 2007.

http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/3/photos/64/500x500/1/P1130992.JPG?et=RaTpI819Kcss1BclROUl6Q

http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/3/photos/64/500x500/2/P1130993.JPG?et=paakwCuD%2CzscU7WxZDemYg

:eek::eek::eek:Thanks you so much for those aerial pics!! I'm gonna spend the next half-hour staring at them. I gusee the new location of the airport is actually going to do is good in terms of taking aerial pics.:applause:

these are nice aerial pix bernie!:)

very Impressive photos bernie!

Very nice pics BJ!!! Sama ako sayo next year. heheheh. :D

Ang ganda naman niyan. Sana makapunta ako diyan someday. Yun nga lang, kailan kaya iyon? Ahaha...

madali lang pumunta dun! di ba malapit ang airport sa paranaque. 1 hour lng yan papuntang iloilo. before you know it, nandun ka na! hehe

@Bernie: Thanks for the impressive aerial and ground zero pics of Iloilo. :okay:


I can't help but compare Robinsons Place Iloilo (red circle) and SM Delgado (blue circle) with regards to their footprints. I don't see much of a difference at all based on the photo below. :)

http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h141/oboi_1/iloilocityaerialrobsm.jpg
Photo by berniemacksouthcentr

madali lang pumunta dun! di ba malapit ang airport sa paranaque. 1 hour lng yan papuntang iloilo. before you know it, nandun ka na! hehe

ahahaha... wish ko lang. kaso wala akong pera.:lol:

Bernie, these are very clear picture of Iloilo. Could you identify some of the prominent fixtures of the City.

@ Bernie - Great clear aerial views of the downtown area and new CBD. Kudos pare!


Sana someday we can have a space port like this or better than this one.

http://www.universetoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/07/2007-0711shuttle.jpg

@Bernie: Thanks for the impressive aerial and ground zero pics of Iloilo. :okay:


I can't help but compare Robinsons Place Iloilo (red circle) and SM Delgado (blue circle) with regards to their footprints. I don't see much of a difference at all based on the photo below. :)

http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h141/oboi_1/iloilocityaerialrobsm.jpg
Photo by berniemacksouthcentr

But SM Delgado is like.. 1 1/2 floors while Robinson's has 3 floors.

Anyway, I just found where they sell the 2005 and 2006 Iloilo Yearbook. They're both on sale for P450.

Wala lang na miss ko yung picture taking with Santa Claus dati sa SM Delgado...hay sarap maging bata ulit.


@IAMME - saan puwede kumuha ng yearbook?

Kudos to bernie for a very visual clear pics of downtown iloilo.

i would like to contribute something to label the pics of where some interesting places are, but i dont know how to upload a pic. under the permission of bernie if he wants to.

@Bernie: Thanks for the impressive aerial and ground zero pics of Iloilo. :okay:


I can't help but compare Robinsons Place Iloilo (red circle) and SM Delgado (blue circle) with regards to their footprints. I don't see much of a difference at all based on the photo below. :)

http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h141/oboi_1/iloilocityaerialrobsm.jpg
Photo by berniemacksouthcentr

i think SM Delgado is expanding really well. Based on the pictures, the land area of the Robinsons and SM Delgado is almost the same, the main difference is the number of floors, I guess on why Robinson's Place Iloilo is a little bit bigger than SM Delgado. Robinson's Iloilo maintain the second spot as the biggest mall all over Western Visayas Region with SM City Iloilo leading the pack. On whether Robinson's will expand to make an impact, I have no idea at all. But I guess that if Robinsons wants a second mall in Iloilo, they'll going to create a new one outside the city proper. Moreso, if Robinson's Land wins the old airport bid site, expect a bigger Robinson's Mall in place in the years to come. And I thin this is not far from reality.

^^ Malas, wrong timing ko subong! Anyway, I will not miss next year's alumni homecoming since it'll be once in a lifetime: The Centennary of the foundation of University of the Philippines (1908-2008)

Anyway, expect this if Iloilo City has a high resolution Google Earth pictures:
http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/4/photos/48/orig/15/P1130974.JPG?et=iLWDHNboDmc6LkV%2B94hnxg
Waterfront District

http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/4/photos/48/orig/16/P1130975.JPG?et=vzm0rFaexk%2CbsyOfD9HSvw
Downtown Iloilo City

http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/3/photos/48/orig/17/P1130976.JPG?et=AhEO9t4sLyam7l%2Cnz2M2EQ
Western sector of City Proper District, Smallville and San Rafael Mandurriao District and eastern and central Molo District

Beautiful, beautiful pano of the great Iloilo City. It just looks brilliantly from above. Any port city always fascinates me. There's something in a port city that makes it all beautiful from aerial view. :banana:

Iloilo City fast becoming an IT center in WV

The efforts of the city government to make this part of the country a center for IT industry are now paying off with six call centers in operation and two more giant companies coming in. Iloilo City Mayor Jerry P. Treñas said Iloilo City will again be included in the State of the Nation Address of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo this Monday.

In addition to her mentioning of the P50-million Metro Iloilo Radial Road being one of her priority projects in Iloilo, President Arroyo will also underscore the role of this city in enhancing the Information Technology industry.

Giant firm, Sutherland Global Services has already visited this city last week. Representatives from the group signified their interest to relocate in Iloilo and open an initial 1,000 seats.
Likewise, Teletech, which has branches in Bacolod and Cebu, will also open another branch in Iloilo City this third quarter of 2007 with 1,000 seats available.

At present Iloilo City hosts ePLDT Ventus, Call Box Customer Contact Center, Echo Customer Contact Center, Global Mega Communications Inc., Techno Call Corp and the Interactive Voice Call Center.

Medlink Transcription Services which is into medical transcriptions is also here in the city.

Iloilo City is also included in the cyber hub of the country aside from its being a key player in the tourism industry under the super region concept of the Arroyo Administration. (PNA)

Hala bira! Arangka ILOILO!:banana: :banana: :banana:

Locations:

Call Centers:

ePLDT Ventus - Iloilo Supermart (Molo Plaza)
Call Box CCC - Emmanuel Bldg. (Diversion Road)
Echo CCC -
Global Mega Comm. Inc. -
Techno Call Corp -
Interactive Voice CC - Century 21 Hotel (Quezon St.)
Tele Tech - SM City ILOILO (Diversion Road) u/c
Sutherland -

Medical Transcription:

Medlink Transcription Services - ATM Bldg. (Ledesma St.)

Please kindly add if anybody knows the location. TY.
we're slowly getting there guys. The list is not impressive at present but very inspiring to all, both to Ilonggos and to businessmen. It just shows how Iloilo City is faring with IT industry at present. I hope the city government will not rest on its laurels but continue promoting Iloilo City as the next IT Hub in the country. More efforts need to be done to make the city a friendlier place for all IT companies but as I say, we are addressing all the concerns bit by bit. I caould not wait to see another 3-5 call centers aside from all listed above and the upcoming Teletech and Sutherland. We need more IT companies. The more, the merrier.

^^ first and foremost, thanks for all the updates. Trenas State of the City Address is the highlight of this week news. We have amazing developments ongoing and waiting for all of us in Iloilo City and that what makes it all different. If you look at the list, the message is very inspiring to each and everyone. It gives hope and better future for all our kababayans left in Iloilo City at present. I just wish all these good things happening will bear more fruitful years for all of us.
Indeed, inspiring Kirby.

Btw, did anyone knows about the MORITZ HOTEL infront of CPU? It's a five-storey hotel and due to open soon. Any photos?

and it continuous to grow annually. You'll see more and more fashion shows and fashion-inspired activities in Iloilo in the years to come.

@ Bernie - Great clear aerial views of the downtown area and new CBD. Kudos pare!


Sana someday we can have a space port like this or better than this one.

http://www.universetoday.com/wp-content/uploads/2007/07/2007-0711shuttle.jpg
very futuristic. I loved it. Why not kung puwede din lang? :banana: :banana:

City housing project up for conversion
By Jeehan V. Fernandez

THE Iloilo City government wants to convert the controversial housing project at Brgy. Ungka in Pavia town into a multi-storey residential estate.

This is the plan of Mayor Jerry Treñas to “save face” on the ill-fated P105-million housing project initially intended for City Hall employees.

The project was conceptualized by Treñas’ predecessor Mansueto Malabor in 2001.

Treñas even eyed revenue without cost for the city by having a private entity to take over and develop the already deteriorating and vandalized project.

“We will sit down with a private developer. The city will have no problem and no funds to finance the development. But we will just get the city’s share. The house structures could either be used or rebuilt. Initially, the plan is to convert the area into a four-storey socialized housing units,” Treñas told reporters.

“We will enter into a joint venture with a private enterprise at no cost for the city to recover the losses and even profit from the project. The land value of the site would be increasing. It will be the private firm to develop, sell and market the property,” he explained.

Ace Builders and Enterprise (ABE) abandoned the project sometime in 2002 after alleged irregularities on the use of substandard materials in the construction broke out to the media.

The hullabaloo prompted the city government to stop paying for accomplishment works which in turn forced ABE to abandon the project.

ABE has been asking for a certain amount for the last billings from the City Hall as remaining payable but Treñas clarified they will have to wait for the computation of the Commission on Audit (COA) to determine the exact amount.

City Legal Office (CLO) chief Atty. Edgar Gil earlier recommended to the city council to go over the financial evaluation made by COA and City Engineer’s Office (CEO)’s billing to pay ABE P14-million more if it is justified.

“We will wait for the cue from Atty. Gil. We wanted closure of the project. The City Legal Office wanted the final computation of payment to ABE to be determined by COA before we can proceed with the implementation of the new project,” Treñas said.

However, outspoken Councilor Perla Zulueta earlier debunked the city’s move to reconsider the payment saying there is no reason to pay ABE despite the fact that it left the project to deteriorate – to the detriment of public interest.

Instead, Zulueta urged the city government to sue ABE for breach of contract that caused damage to the project.

It was during the time of Malabor in April 2001 or barely a month before the May elections that ABE started to undertake the project to the tune of P137-million.

The socialized housing project aimed to establish 413 units intended for city employees was initiated by Malabor and funded through a bond flotation scheme availed by the city government with the Philippine Veteran’s Bank (PVB).

Malabor lost to Treñas in the May 2001 elections, prompting the latter to take over the implementation of the project which was supervised by CEO.

Treñas had even lectured that the Malabor administration should have not prioritized a mass housing project.

He stressed: “The city government should have not entered into a housing project because it has no expertise to market the facility or develop a subdivision-type area. The important task would be marketing but the city cannot do that. It would be much easier if we have to develop a relocation site but not embarking on a project of such magnitude.”

Treñas said he was just “forced” to pursue the project when he took over the City Hall in 2001.

Worse, the mayor noted that the City Planning and Development Office (CPDO) survey showed only a handful of city employees could afford to own a house unit if ever the project is completed.

“Only a few could be qualified to avail of the housing unit depending on their actual net salary and these are just the department heads,” Treñas pointed out, short of saying the project doesn’t even serve its main purpose.

Treñas surmised that the loan in a form of bond flotation acquired with PVB to finance the project was “impractical.”

“The bond flotation, based on my experience was more expensive. They should have studied it before,” said Treñas.

Treñas said the city government had released P80-million of the loan with the P60-million paid to ABE during his term while the P20-million was paid during Malabor’s time.

A PVB document showed the five-year loan matured May 2007.

Likewise, a schedule of payments certified by city accountant Consolacion Tormon showed the city had paid to PVB a total of P105-million including the P80-million principal, P24-million interest and P706,000 in taxes with the last payment April 30.

Although Treñas is optimistic that the city can still recover the losses it incurred for paying the bank loan with the proposed development in the site.

source: [url=http://www.theguardianiloilo.ph/} The Guardian ILOILO[/url]

Sun Life’s Flight VUL 2007 Takes Off in Iloilo

FLIGHT VUL 2007 is a market education program to help Filipinos have a better appreciation of Variable Universal Life products or VUL.

VUL products are innovative instruments that offer both life insurance and protection and investment growth potential in a single policy. Clients no longer need to prioritize and maintain two distinct instruments that are usually provided by two separate institutions.

“Gone are the days when people had to choose one at the expense of the other. With VUL products such as our peso-denominated Sun FlexiLink and US dollar-denominated Sun Flexidollar, people can enjoy protection and potential investment growth at the same time,” said Sun Life’s Marketing SVP, Mr. Raoul Littaua.

Life insurance and investments

Traditional life insurance policies address problematic financial circumstances such as untimely death or untoward incidents. A life insurance policy acts as a safeguard to the family, as it can generate the coverage amount from the premiums being paid. But traditional life insurance policies are unable to take advantage of market opportunities that will allow them to earn the way investments do.

On the other hand, investments and traditional deposit accounts ride on market opportunities to grow. But in case an unfortunate event befalls the investor, the market value of his money in the bank or in stocks remains the same.

With Sun Life’s products, clients are able to hit two birds with one stone. While they have no need yet for the product’s life insurance benefits, the investment funds of Sun FlexiLink and Sun FlexiDollar continue to grow. Sun Life Financial has positioned seasoned investment managers behind these funds and they are focused solely on maximizing the earning potential of these investment funds.

Growing interest

Driven by their benefits, the popularity of VUL products in Europe, the US and Canada have been on the rise since the mid 1990s. In Malaysia, Singapore and China, interest in unit-linked products began to rise sharply in the early 2000s. But in the Philippines, it is only just starting to win significant share of the market’s attention.

“We don’t want the Philippine market to miss out on a product as good as this. We want them to know that they don’t have to choose life insurance over investment growth or the other way around. That’s why we launched a market education campaign. That’s why Flight VUL 2007 is taking off in Iloilo,” Mr. Littaua explained.

Free trip to Paris

As part of the market education campaign, Sun Life Financial is setting up the Flight VUL 2007 mall booth in SM City Iloilo. The public is invited to visit the booth and learn about VUL products, as well as the Sun FlexiLink and Sun FlexiDollar plans. Visitors get a chance to pick instant prizes, including limited edition Sun FlexiLink t-shirts and mailmans bags. They also get a chance to win a free trip to Paris for two. The Paris raffle prize includes economy airfare and 4-days, 3-nights hotel accommodation at the Apollo Opera Hottel in Paris. Travel period is between August 2007 and December 2007 only.

“We are very happy to introduce Sun FlexiLink and Sun FlexiDollar to Iloilo in a very interesting manner. At Sun Life Financial, we want to make everybody’s journey to financial freedom as fun and engaging as possible,” said Sun Life’s new business manager for Iloilo, Ms. Erlinda Buenaflor.

For more information about Sun FlexiLink and Sun FlexiDollar, please contact Sun Life Financial through (033) 337-8918 or (033) 3189 or visit us at the Platinum Square Building, 168 General Luna Street, Iloilo City.

Sun Life Financial is a leading international financial services organization providing a diverse range of protection and wealth accumulation products and services to individuals and corporate customers. Chartered in 1865, Sun Life Financial and its partners today have operations in key markets worldwide, including Canada, the United Stares, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Hong Kong, the Philippines, Japan, Indonesia, India, China, and Bermuda. As of March 31, 2007, the Sun Life Financial group of companies had total assets under management in excess of CDN$446 billion. Sun Life Financial Inc. trades on the Toronto (TSX), New York (NYSE) and Philippines (PSE) stock exchange under ticker symbol SLF.

source: The Guardian ILOILO (http://www.theguardianiloilo.ph/)

Anti-corruption roadshow
set to takes off in Iloilo

ILOILO City -- A roadshow of anti-corruption initiatives will be launched on July 24-26 at the Renewal House, La Paz district in partnership with the People’s Graft Watch of Iloilo, Inc. and non-government organizations (NGOs).

Fifty organizations and coalitions will be present in the grand assembly of exchanging various tools to strategically fight corruption.

The event will showcase seven anti-corruption tools developed by members of the Transparency and Accountability Network, namely:

• Textbook Count by the Ateneo School of Government- Government Watch
• PDAF Watch by CODE- NGO
• Procurement Observing by Procurement Watch, Inc.
• Medicines Monitoring by Coalition Against Corruption
• Road Projects Monitoring by Concerned Citizens of Abra for Good Government
• Data Collection by Social Weather Station; and
• Lifestyle Check by TAN Operations Team.

The National Anti-Corruption Roadshow aims to generate deeper and wider participation from civil society organizations nationwide in anti-corruption work and thereby create greater impact in the fight against corruption.

Leading the local efforts to address the problem of corruption is Iloilo Graft Watch, a network of Social Action Centers of the Archdiocese of Jaro, Iloilo.

“We are happy to be partnering with the Transparency and Accountability Network TAN), and others in empowering the citizens, including the catholic church, to demand better government through greater transparency and accountability,” declared Monsignor Dodong Oso, President of Iloilo Graft Watch, Inc.

“Most of TAN’s efforts have been concentrated in Metro Manila and have not gone much beyond its own members. This is why TAN is embarking on a three-city, nationwide roadshow, partnering with Iloilo Graft Watch here in Iloilo. This roadshow is an opportunity for the TAN members and partners to share with other CSOs, NGOs and POs the tools that they have developed, and to learn from the partner organizations in the region about their anti-corruption tools and initiatives,” said Vincent Lazatin, executive director of TAN.

“This gathering is significant. Finally, civil society can fight back. With these series of trainings, ordinary citizens and citizens organizations will be armed with the tools necessary to attack the cancer of corruption and get the clean, honest and efficient government they deserve.” he added.

“Government cannot fight corruption alone. The stakeholders for good governance, the citizens themselves, should be empowered to exact transparency and accountability in government. We laud the efforts of civil society organization like TAN, Iloilo Graft Watch and Iloilo CODE NGO and all their partners, for complementing the efforts of the Presidential Anti-Graft Commission in battling corruption,” said Chairperson Constancia de Guzman of the Presidential Anti-Graft Commission.

Anti-corruption experts and known advocates will be present in the event.
The roadshows in Luzon and Mindanao will be held on August 7-9 (Tuguegarao City) and August 21-23 (Davao City).

source: Panay News (http://www.panaynews.com.ph/top%20story2.htm)

@Bernie: Thanks for the impressive aerial and ground zero pics of Iloilo. :okay:


I can't help but compare Robinsons Place Iloilo (red circle) and SM Delgado (blue circle) with regards to their footprints. I don't see much of a difference at all based on the photo below. :)

http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h141/oboi_1/iloilocityaerialrobsm.jpg
Photo by berniemacksouthcentr

i maybe wrong about this but it looks like robinson's hasn't yet fully utilized it's total land area. as least, as it appears in the picture.

you're right, eonynx. The unused area is for future expansion. Robinson's plan to build a hotel before but due to ATO regulation, the plan was put on hold. Now that the new airport is operational, Iloilo City can have a little bit of leeway in building medium rises and highrise later.

i think SM Delgado is expanding really well. Based on the pictures, the land area of the Robinsons and SM Delgado is almost the same, the main difference is the number of floors, I guess on why Robinson's Place Iloilo is a little bit bigger than SM Delgado. Robinson's Iloilo maintain the second spot as the biggest mall all over Western Visayas Region with SM City Iloilo leading the pack. On whether Robinson's will expand to make an impact, I have no idea at all. But I guess that if Robinsons wants a second mall in Iloilo, they'll going to create a new one outside the city proper. Moreso, if Robinson's Land wins the old airport bid site, expect a bigger Robinson's Mall in place in the years to come. And I thin this is not far from reality.
I agree with you. The next time SM Delgado wants to expand, they'll do it vertically cos they'll find hard to convince some of hte building owners within the periphery or sides to relocate at present or sell their properties to SM. If Robinson's will not be aggressive enough, SM Delgado will even beat them in sales, new talents, etc.

Currently I am at one of the internet cafes in SanCarlos City Negros Occidental.

I would like to thank the pilot of Air Philippines Flight 2P20 for passing by the downtown area, hehe!! Inspired to take pix since until now we don't have a highresolution images of our city in Google Earth.

By the way, Mayor Jerry Treñas was elected as the new national chairman of League of Cities in the Philippines along with Mayor Bing Leonardina of Bacolod City as the national vice chairman. The Ilonggos are leading the way towards successful sustainable growth of their cities here in Pinas.

^^ this is another welcome news for all western visayas!:)

@bernie, awesome aerial shots indeed. They're very clear. Iloilo City looks very well-planned from above, with those pockets of greens everywhere, tidy-looking streets and a nice-looking clean winding river.

^^ this is another welcome news for all western visayas!:)

:applause: :applause: :applause:

Currently I am at one of the internet cafes in SanCarlos City Negros Occidental.

I would like to thank the pilot of Air Philippines Flight 2P20 for passing by the downtown area, hehe!! Inspired to take pix since until now we don't have a highresolution images of our city in Google Earth.

By the way, Mayor Jerry Treñas was elected as the new national chairman of League of Cities in the Philippines along with Mayor Bing Leonardina of Bacolod City as the national vice chairman. The Ilonggos are leading the way towards successful sustainable growth of their cities here in Pinas.

What time did you take this picture? It appears like there is no traffic jam at all along Calle Real.:lol:
http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/4/photos/48/orig/16/P1130975.JPG?et=vzm0rFaexk%2CbsyOfD9HSvw

I think this is my first time to post in SSC while in work.:lol:

@bernie, awesome aerial shots indeed. They're very clear. Iloilo City looks very well-planned from above, with those pockets of greens everywhere, tidy-looking streets and a nice-looking clean winding river.
I totally agree. It's beautifully taken (on his throes of passion ....... for Iloilo City :) ). The city is indeed well-planned for the aerial view POV.

I agree with you. The next time SM Delgado wants to expand, they'll do it vertically cos they'll find hard to convince some of hte building owners within the periphery or sides to relocate at present or sell their properties to SM. If Robinson's will not be aggressive enough, SM Delgado will even beat them in sales, new talents, etc.
wishy-wishy. I like to see SM Delgado expanding to the size of SM City Iloilo. If they can't do it horizontally, maybe it's high-time for SM Delgado to add floors upward to accomodate bigger crowds and plenty shops to hang around. Hmmmm....

I totally agree. It's beautifully taken (on his throes of passion ....... for Iloilo City :) ). The city is indeed well-planned for the aerial view POV.

Agree; but our city blocks are quite big. City blocks half the size of ours should have been more efficient: more roads, longer frontages, more roadside parking, etc.

What time did you take this picture? It appears like there is no traffic jam at all along Calle Real.:lol:


I think this is my first time to post in SSC while in work.:lol:

Took the pictures on a Saturday afternoon, a few minutes before 2PM Phil Standard, hehehe! :lol:

I totally agree. It's beautifully taken (on his throes of passion ....... for Iloilo City :) ). The city is indeed well-planned for the aerial view POV.

The original layout was to be found along Plaza Libertad and Aldeguer, Guanco, Calle Real (JM Basa northern half of Iznart), Aduana, Santo Rosario and De la Rama Streets (late Spanish colonial times)

Valeria, Quezon and the succeeding streets were to be constructed later due to the growth of the city during the early 20th Century.

grabe ang galing ng mayad studios! hats off for them talaga, searched their videos in youtube, 4 thumbs up! they can get most manila based studios a run for their money.

^^ i've watched that vid too several times sa youtube!:) ok talaga ginawa ng mayad studios, hehe!

^^ I'll refer your comments to Japh, Alvin and Jose. :)

Anyway, here's another nightshot picture of Iloilo City. Sorry, I'm not a professional yet. :)

http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/3/photos/45/orig/19/Iloilo022.jpg?et=BP15udzrJ2vCfLCxVoHqNA
SM City and northern Mandurriao Diversion area

http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/4/photos/45/orig/20/Iloilo023.jpg?et=teNrTLmv1RhcZkJ6aMNoIA
Southern area of Diversion Road facing Stoplight

http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/3/photos/45/orig/21/Iloilo024.jpg?et=4z%2Cxauhta2N3e9sqanzADg
Floating Downtown Iloilo City

http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/3/photos/45/orig/22/Iloilo025.jpg?et=7TwLEjbusy7BuAbloRL%2BwQ
Another picture of downtown Iloilo City

http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/3/photos/45/orig/23/Iloilo026.jpg?et=7VGhDa7A9BTHiBVj23jpPQ
Medicus, Hotel del Rio and Riverside Boardwalk

not only the promo vid for iloilo, their other projects are equally outstanding!

Iloilo City's now vibrant place for nightlife, Smallville Complex in Mandurriao District.

I took the pictures at around 7PM on a Sunday. Party starts at 9PM and ends up by 4AM or until sunrise. :D

http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/2/photos/45/500x500/24/Iloilo027.jpg?et=v4bODC9LcT9xO9L217Kr%2CQ

http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/2/photos/45/500x500/25/Iloilo028.jpg?et=bjHIGfS2BzGinuEgi2Hkwg

http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/2/photos/45/500x500/26/Iloilo029.jpg?et=TYrjCQ7PWSGpMTONN2%2CYqw
Red Square

http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/2/photos/45/500x500/28/Iloilo031.jpg?et=Djm0bRlCLPbHQhYS%2CokBUw
Smallville Commercial Complex (main) and Iloilo Business Hotel

http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/5/photos/64/orig/45/P1140045.JPG?et=IrN3vMxdvTbEjWT9p%2BR5zA

http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/7/photos/64/orig/50/P1140051.JPG?et=nkkg4JPCv9mmwJjAps9uFw
More pictures to be posted soon...

Right now, I'm tired. I woke up at 4:45AM, left Pavia at 5:45AM, left Iloilo City for an hour ride to Bacolod City by 8:00AM, reached Bacolod City by 9:00AM, left Bacolod City for San Carlos City via Don Salvador Benedicto by 10:00AM for a 2 hour ride, ate lunch at San Carlos City, left there by 1:30PM and reached Toledo City Cebu by 2:15PM and left for Cebu City at around 2:30PM and finally reached Cebu City by 4:00PM. :)

^^ tagal na nila dyan... di ba sila nangangawait, sabagay, at least ngayon may suot na sila, nung una nilang binuhat yan eh hubad pa sila :lol: :lol:

^^ Bai, kay si "Manang" man pud dili sa iya ok ang makita ang breast, wahahaha!!

Yup, since 1930's, they are still carrying that big water basin with their hands in honor of Senator Jose Maria Arroyo, the daddy of Iggy and FG Mike. (Guys, please correct me if I'm wrong) :D

^^ Bai, kay si "Manang" man pud dili sa iya ok ang makita ang breast, wahahaha!!

Yup, since 1930's, they are still carrying that big water basin with their hands in honor of Senator Jose Maria Arroyo, the daddy of Iggy and FG Mike. (Guys, please correct me if I'm wrong) :D

One of the symbols of iloilo is the Arroyo Fountain.This waterfountain also serves as the kilometer zero for the island of Panay. The arroyo fountain was built in honor of the late ilonggo Senator Jose Maria Arroyo, grandfather of FG Mike.
:) :) :) :)

I checked the aerial of the city and made several observations.

http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h151/soulmaker27/IloiloAerial_Note.jpg


1. Circles in pink are numerous squatter areas of the city. I hope the city government can relocate them and encourage to develope these areas into something pleasing to the eyes of both consumers and investors.

2. Foremost Milling Company (big red circle) - how is it doing? Are they expanding?

3. Area # 1 (green) - Sayang yung space dito. Ano pala to?

4. Area # 2 - future site of the Iloilo Convention Center. Are they going to occupy the Rotary Park also? I have a lot of memories in that park. I remember playing there, see-saw and swing.

5. Area # 3 - sayang din tong place na to. Several years na idle lang ang lupa.

6. Iloilo Fishing Port Complex - how's the business here? Are they improving the facilities? Are the facilities world-class?


Hay - I realized Iloilo has a lot of missed potentials.

i believe as we need progress, we need parks to rest.

indi memorial park ha. parks for leisure and nature.

I agree with you, Caloy. We need parks, better pa guid kung Theme Parks ang himuon nila. Business is doing well but we need recreation and leisure palces as well around the city.

Dingle's Natural Wonder

http://thedailyguardian.com/images/stories/trsm1j24.jpg http://thedailyguardian.com/images/stories/trsm3j24.jpg http://thedailyguardian.com/images/stories/trsmj24.jpg

ILOILO is overflowing with natural wonders, such as the mysterious Tinagong Dagat high in the mountains of Lambunao to the secret twin-waterfall of Barasalon Cave in Janiuay; Rafflesia garden in San Joaquin to the white sand bar beach of Bolobadiangan in Concepcion.

These outdoor gems offer endless recreational opportunities open and free for everyone to enjoy.

There are other natural areas, each in its own unique way showcasing Iloilo’s rich environmental diversity.

Dingle, a fourth class town in the central area of the province and 36 kilometers away from the city of Iloilo, is blessed with a wealth of special natural areas. You won’t have to wander far to find beautiful and unique caves, thick old growth forests and eco-systems filled with fascinating flora and fauna. Soak up the scenery in Bulabog Puti-an and discover the best this town has to offer.

Bulabog Puti-an is the only limestone rock formation in Panay excluding Guimaras. It was designated a National Park through Congressional Bill No. 1651, and such is considered a “nationally significant area.” It occupies a land area of 834.033 hectares covering five of its 33 barangays. It offers superb hiking where one can marvel to some of its unique caves.

The park contains 13 known caves (Lungib, Hapu-Hapo, Ma-arhong, Guiso, Mistranza, Linganero, Lapus-Lapus, Ticondal, Butac, Tuco, San Roque, Pitong Liko and Nautod). These caves have become one of Iloilo’s most exciting and one of the finest known caves in the region. Some have become significant historic site in the park’s setting.

Each cave is unique enough to itself with mixture of different shapes and sizes of passage. Some are tight and narrow, while others can be very low and wide. Most of these caves are undeveloped, so there are no lights, stairs, or walkways. They are often wet, muddy and cold. Expect ladder climbs, pool crossings, tight crawls and free climbing, but most can be traversed during normal conditions.

Step back in time as you explore the historic Mistranza Cave. The cave, dwelling place for an estimated 20,000 fruit bats, is environment friendly to ropes and equipment and, therefore, does not require a technique and gear that one normally uses on the surface.

Through the years of exploration, many discoveries have been made. In the historic section of this cave, remnants of the past that include inscriptions in Spanish written by Katipuneros before the advent of the Second World War can be found intact in its protective environment.

Some offer even more than just its size. At Tuco Cave, visitors are drawn by its delicate and unique, never-before-seen beauty. Coming from around the region to explore it, visitors are greeted by a fantastic array of formations where one can experience a rare chance for good stalactite and stalagmite viewing.

Guiso Cave holds the longest distance from entrance to exit that you can see in the area. In fact, it has three entrances and a single exit. It is also home to 18 different species of bats. This cave is extremely popular in the local area and is considered a good cave for beginners. The cave is a lot of fun and will be enjoyed by anyone seeking a little adventure.

Visitors can enjoy self-guided or guided tours and explorations to all its caves, camping around the site and more. Tours are offered all year by reservation, and are conducted by experienced, highly trained cave guides.

We should understand that these caves have been undisturbed in a silent splendor for thousands of years. They are protected by law and there are fine imposed on those who would destroy any part of the cave environment.

It is a truly unique experience, combining challenging exploration with history and folklore.

We must bring respect for the cave, and a strong personal philosophy of cave stewardship that is: take only pictures, leave only footprints and kill nothing but time.

from: The Guardian Iloilo
link: http://www.theguardianiloilo.ph/

SONA UNVEILS PROJECTS FOR WV
By Francis Allan L. Angelo

PRESIDENT Gloria Arroyo hailed the completion of major infrastructure projects in Western Visayas even as she promised more projects in her State of the Nation Address (Sona) Monday.

President Arroyo’s Sona focused on the accomplishments of her pet super-regions programs which she laid out in her 2006 Sona.

In this year’s Sona, Mrs. Arroyo made public her administration’s “blueprint for development” in her last three years as president.

President Arroyo said she would end her term with the country well on its way to achieving her vision of a Philippines joining the First World in 20 years.

The President also emphasized the need to protect the natural resources of Central Philippines, which includes Western Visayas, because of its potentials in the tourism industry.

“We protect its natural wonders and provide the means to travel to those wonders.”

Mrs. Arroyo particularly cited the island of Boracay in Aklan province which is one of the top tourist destinations in the country and the world.

“For Boracay, the leading overall destination, the Kalibo Airport is now international with an instrument landing system as we said last year. Next is an P80-million terminal on request of (Governor) Joben Miraflores,” the President said.

She also cited the Aklan-Libertad-Pandan Road which is awaiting approval of the Japanese government.

The road, the President said, “will connect Boracay to the nature park we declared in Northwest Panay Peninsula.”

Other road networks in the pipeline are access roads to the New Iloilo Airport in Cabatuan-Sta. Barbara area and the Metro Radial Road proposed Mayor Jerry Treñas.

The President, who traces her husband’s roots to Molo, Iloilo City and Negros Occidental, also made some of the audience smile when she said that then Governor Arthur Defensor “conceived the airport” while incumbent Governor Niel Tupas “midwifed its delivery.”

President Arroyo also acknowledged the 13th Congress for passing the P900 million oil spill calamity fund to save the environment of Guimaras.

“I thank once again the previous Congress. It (Guimaras) is back on its feet.”

Mrs. Arroyo also mentioned the construction of the Sibunag RORO Port last May which will connect Guimaras to Negros Occidental.

She also mentioned the soon-to-be-opened Bacolod-Silay Airport, “near the nature park we declared in Northern Negros.”

Including other majors projects in the rest of the country, President Arroyo said she presented “just a sampler of our P1.7 trillion medium-term public service program.”

Clad in a red terno, President Arroyo opened her speech by urging elected public officials to put politics behind and urged them to deliver “government with wisdom, compassion, vision and patriotism.”

The President said her administration will invest in infrastructure both “human and physical” to increase business confidence, continue to create jobs, invest in stronger and wider social safety nets through education, cheap medicines, housing, hiring more teachers, and providing more books to school children.

Mrs. Arroyo’s seventh Sona, which lasted almost an hour, received 106 rounds of applause and two standing ovations.

The strongest and longest applause came when she uttered: “From where I sit, a president is only as strong as she wants to be.”

from: The Guardian Iloilo
link: http://www.theguardianiloilo.ph/

Agree; but our city blocks are quite big. City blocks half the size of ours should have been more efficient: more roads, longer frontages, more roadside parking, etc.
thanks, Samwise. I wish to see more roads later. We need more roads to drive around. Te city right now is too congested esp the Jaro Plaza, Molo Plaza and whole of city proper area.

Iloilo City's now vibrant place for nightlife, Smallville Complex in Mandurriao District.

I took the pictures at around 7PM on a Sunday. Party starts at 9PM and ends up by 4AM or until sunrise. :D

http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/2/photos/45/500x500/24/Iloilo027.jpg?et=v4bODC9LcT9xO9L217Kr%2CQ

http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/2/photos/45/500x500/25/Iloilo028.jpg?et=bjHIGfS2BzGinuEgi2Hkwg

http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/2/photos/45/500x500/26/Iloilo029.jpg?et=TYrjCQ7PWSGpMTONN2%2CYqw
Red Square

http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/2/photos/45/500x500/28/Iloilo031.jpg?et=Djm0bRlCLPbHQhYS%2CokBUw
Smallville Commercial Complex (main) and Iloilo Business Hotel

Smallville is definitely alive and kicking at night ! :banana: :banana: :banana:

i believe as we need progress, we need parks to rest.

indi memorial park ha. parks for leisure and nature.

I agree with you, Caloy. We need parks, better pa guid kung Theme Parks ang himuon nila. Business is doing well but we need recreation and leisure palces as well around the city.
a necessity for the city of iloilo at this time.
a disney in the city? or a local counterpart of enchanted kingdom? any plan?

Ilongga prodigy featured in Florida’s young artists series
By Wenceslao E. Mateo Jr.

THE talent at the piano of the only daughter of an Ilonggo family of two kids based in Florida will be relished by the Florida public this coming July 29 at the famous Grand Bohemian Hotel-Orlando, an emailed report to this paper said.

Ciara de Leon, 14, of Ilonggo parents Dr. and Mrs. Augusto and Cielo de Leon, now based in Palm Coast, Florida, will perform with Adam Ravain, another young talented pianist, in the show.

The show, which is open to the public, free of charge, will start at 5 in the afternoon at the Klimt Rotunda of the hotel. Sponsor of this performance of the two talented youths is the Kessler Signature Young Artists Series, which monthly features promising young artists from throughout Florida at the Grand Bohemian Hotel-Orlando.

The performance of Ciara and Adam is the fourth in the Kessler series for 2007.

Artist’s Profile (Ciara de Leon)

Ciara (Mateo-Gealon) de Leon began studying piano with Mrs. Stella Pola of Palm Coast, Florida at the age of six and has continued doing so for eight years. She has been under the tutelage of Dr. Gary Wolf for the past three years for concerto performance.

Since the age of seven, Ciara has entered the National Guild of Piano Teachers auditions yearly, invariably receiving superior plus ratings. She has performed in numerous recitals sponsored by the Volusia County Music Teachers’ Association, and Honors Recitals of the Florida State Music Teachers’ Association, District V.

In 2003, at age ten, she performed her debut piano recital at the Palm Coast United Methodist Church. On March 2006, Ciara performed in a joint concert at Stetson University in Deland to raise funds for the VCMTA Scholarship Fund.

Ciara won first place in the Orlando Music Club 2007 Scholarship Auditions Senior Concerto Division on March 2007. She won the Senior Division Concerto event of the National Federation of Music Club Festival in Jacksonville, Florida on May 2007 and won first place in the intermediate division at the District V Concerto event in Orlando of the Florida State Music Teachers’ Association on March 24, 2007, competing at the state level in Gainesville.

Ciara has just completed the 8th grade at the St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic School in Palm Coast. She was presented the Bishop John J. Snyder Peace in Christ Award for her academic achievements, benevolent character traits, and community service.

She has auditioned for and will attend the Douglas Anderson School of the Arts in Jacksonville, Florida this fall 2007.

from: The Daily Informer
link: http://dailyinformer.info/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1248&Itemid=137

New city slaughterhouse operational soon

The city government is expecting to operate before the end of this year a slaughterhouse in Barangay Tacas, Jaro.

Iloilo City Mayor Jerry P. Treñas said finishing touches are being implemented at the Double A abattoir project with the city providing counterpart fund as equity on top of the 2.4 hectare lot and perimeter fence provided for the project.

The city will seek an P11 million soft loan from the Department of Agriculture-Agricultural Competitiveness Enhancement Fund (DA-ACEF) in order to complete the additional civil works, cattle line equipment and concreting of access road. Treñas also said that city congressman Raul T. Gonzalez Jr. is set to provide one electric generator worth P1.5 million for the abattoir project.

On the other hand, the Department of Agriculture, through the National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS), has allocated some P21 million for the project to cover Building A slaughterhouse worth P6 million which was already completed, a P5.5 million holding pen for animals with water system, P5.5 million waste water treatment facility and the installation of various hog line equipment worth P4.5 million.

The waste water treatment facility consists of a series of lagoon wherein waste water is filtered and finally recycled for other uses, while the holding pen is a waiting area fro animals to be slaughtered.

Treñas is optimistic that with the completion of the abattoir project, the city is now ready to export carcass or choice-cut porks and other meats anywhere in the country.

The old city slaughterhouse was put up more than 50 years ago to serve the needs of city residents for safe and clean meat cuts in public markets here. (PNA)

from: The Daily Informer
link: http://dailyinformer.info/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1245&Itemid=137

http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/3/photos/45/orig/23/Iloilo026.jpg?et=7VGhDa7A9BTHiBVj23jpPQ
I like this photo bernie. :banana: :banana: :banana:

I checked the aerial of the city and made several observations.

http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h151/soulmaker27/IloiloAerial_Note.jpg


1. Circles in pink are numerous squatter areas of the city. I hope the city government can relocate them and encourage to develope these areas into something pleasing to the eyes of both consumers and investors.

2. Foremost Milling Company (big red circle) - how is it doing? Are they expanding?

3. Area # 1 (green) - Sayang yung space dito. Ano pala to?

4. Area # 2 - future site of the Iloilo Convention Center. Are they going to occupy the Rotary Park also? I have a lot of memories in that park. I remember playing there, see-saw and swing.

5. Area # 3 - sayang din tong place na to. Several years na idle lang ang lupa.

6. Iloilo Fishing Port Complex - how's the business here? Are they improving the facilities? Are the facilities world-class?


Hay - I realized Iloilo has a lot of missed potentials.

Nice observations. Area # 1 (green) are slipways of a drydocking facility, which seems to be abandoned already.

I checked the aerial of the city and made several observations.

http://i63.photobucket.com/albums/h151/soulmaker27/IloiloAerial_Note.jpg


1. Circles in pink are numerous squatter areas of the city. I hope the city government can relocate them and encourage to develope these areas into something pleasing to the eyes of both consumers and investors.

2. Foremost Milling Company (big red circle) - how is it doing? Are they expanding?

3. Area # 1 (green) - Sayang yung space dito. Ano pala to?

4. Area # 2 - future site of the Iloilo Convention Center. Are they going to occupy the Rotary Park also? I have a lot of memories in that park. I remember playing there, see-saw and swing.

5. Area # 3 - sayang din tong place na to. Several years na idle lang ang lupa.

6. Iloilo Fishing Port Complex - how's the business here? Are they improving the facilities? Are the facilities world-class?


Hay - I realized Iloilo has a lot of missed potentials.

Area number 3 is part of the Park/Rotonda for the Jalandonin Bridge with roads connecting to diversion and Gaisano City and the area for the Magsaysay IT Park as proposed by Gov. Tupas... the "supposed" rendition could be found at Dinagyang Forum.

Notice also the area (mostly green beside Robinsons Place) that is the future site for expansion it is oddly shaped kay hindi magbaligya ang iban nga building. I remember the offer before sa ika ka building(Crown Agricultural Supply) is 90M pero hindi gid pagbaligya sang tag iya.

Yup, maayo gid na tani ang area sa likod sang Iloilo Terminal Market (Tanza) tinluan kag i-convert ala Baywalk! It has beautiful sunset and view of Guimaras Island. Problem is who has the balls to make it happen since damo na da squatters as encircled above.

Great pics berns! :banana: :banana: :banana:

http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/6/photos/64/500x500/3/P1130995.JPG?et=gSWz9C7SUwk%2B59tQNeUFEw
70 Years na gali ang Negros Navigation!

http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/7/photos/64/500x500/4/P1130996.JPG?et=NisyX9o6GnCcNHxcK1oarQ
Formerly Bacolod Chicken Hau

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1078/884744689_8377b997e2.jpg?v=1185281877
Manong Gapamunit sa Suba

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1096/885771604_a565f9fe2e.jpg?v=1185283731
Plaza Libertad

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1224/885771590_757fae068b.jpg?v=0
Jaro Cathedral at 4PM mass

and again

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1294/885771454_8c70bee46e.jpg?v=0
Calle Real, Iloilo City (7AM Monday morning)

http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/7/photos/64/500x500/4/P1130996.JPG?et=NisyX9o6GnCcNHxcK1oarQ
Formerly Bacolod Chicken Hau


What is the main business of Pro Friends in Iloilo? Is this a real estate corporation? And is this local?

Iloilo radial road essential to super region project
Tuesday, July 24 2007 @ 04:58 PM BST

The P50-million Metro Iloilo radial road project currently being implemented in Jaro, Iloilo City to Zarraga town is part of the massive road network in Panay Island, a major component of the Super Region Central Philippines tourism corridor.

This was admitted by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo in her State of the Nation Address (SONA) last July 23 by citing the road project currently being implemented by the Department of Public Works and Highways here.

Citing the need to protect the Visayas natural wonders by providing the means to travel to these wonders, the President pointed to Boracay Island in northern Panay as the leading overall destination.

"We are improving other Panay roads and building the road from the Iloilo Airport, which we inaugurated in Sta Barbara, to Iloilo and the Metro Radial Road that Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Trenas asked for when we inaugurated the airport. Cong. Art Defensor conceived the airport when he was Iloilo governor and Gov. Niel Tupas midwifed its delivery when we inaugurated the airport last June," the President said.

The by-pass radial road project is envisioned to reduce traffic congestion along the Iloilo-Roxas road particularly the sections of Iloilo City and Leganes-Zarraga town proper. The road project is also expected to open up a new growth area in a move to contribute to the total economic development of the province.

The road starts from the proposed Iloilo Circumferential Road No. 01 and ends at about 1.5 kms north of Zarraga town proper where it merges with the existing Iloilo-Roxas road.

Road construction is under the supervision of the construction division, DPWH regional office and contracted by IBC International Builders Corporation for a project cost of P34.03 million to be completed in 210 calendar days.

The project started last March 29, 2007 until October 24, 2007 and involves 2.28 kms. road 12 meters wide including clearing and grubbing, excavation, embankment, and sub-grade preparation. (PNA)

^^ Whoa! They are now starting! Thats good news for MacArthur Highway residents especially the Leganesnons, Zarraganhons and of those living in northcentral Panay.

We can divide the traffic for thosw who are going to Pototan, Capiz and Aklan to this new road while those going to the northern coastal towns from Zarraga, Dumangas, Barotac Nuevo to Carles can take the old highway leading them to Bangga Bante. :)

What is the main business of Pro Friends in Iloilo? Is this a real estate corporation? And is this local?

yes its residential estates, they have property in imus cavite, ang mga model sng ila houses ay kapareho sang mga houses sa Thailand. my sister bought a house and lot here in cavite. A thailand residential developer ni siguro.

Mass-based organizations urged to join new tourism project
By Maricar M. Calubiran

The Department of Tourism (DOT) is urging the full cooperation of all the prospective stakeholders to take advantage of the Grassroots Entrepreneurs for Eco-Tourism (GREET) program of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

DOT Regional Director Edwin Trompeta said the GREET program will provide the people the opportunity not only to promote the eco-tourism program but provide livelihood to the people. The program will primarily benefit the stakeholders and not just the tour operators.

Trompeta said the program was conceptualized to provide employment opportunities, livelihood creation, balanced ecology and environmental protection, promotion and marketing of ecotourism sites as potential tourist destinations and to develop tourism.

GREET has set aside P50, 000 to P100,000 worth of grants to support the proposal of an individual or organization on how to promote an eco-tourism site in their locality. The DOT slated August 30 as the deadline for the submission of proposals.

The proponent may consider a proposal to develop tourism products such as operation of new services and activities in their area; tourism establishments that include accommodation facilities, food and beverage and the likes and tourism related services, namely handicraft training, rescue and medical services or published materials, said Trompeta.

Trompeta added that the program will address the problems on much exploitation and promotion of tourism sites in the country without control. In the GREET program, development in the islands, resorts and other tourism sites will be controlled.

In Iloilo, Trompeta recommends the development of Bucari in Leon. It is a possible tourism site if only there are community-based tourism to take charge of the visitors. The site is ideal for tourism attraction with its lined pine trees that resembles little Baguio. The barangay folks are urged to take the opportunity to grab the program.

The people can provide the visitors amenities, rides and food for them to enjoy the place. It is ideal for camping. They can promote it to the different universities and business establishments in the city. Stakeholders can charge "environmental fee" to the visitors, said Trompeta.

source: The News Today (http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/07/24/mass.based.organizations.urged.to.join.new.tourism.project.html)

Molo Church: Her Story
By Atty. Rex S. Salvilla

http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/07/24/molo3.jpg
Saint Anne and the child Mary

* The church, which is dedicated to Santa Ana, the mother of the Blessed Virgin Mary, has larger than life images of female saints lined in two rows (eight on each side) inside the church, each standing on a pedestal attached to a massive stone pillar and under the Gothic style canopy

The Molo Parish Church is one of the most beautiful churches in Western Visayas. It is an awesome imposing edifice of massive white corral rock lording over the Molo Plaza.

The only Gothic church in the entire country outside of Manila, Molo Church was constructed in 1831 under Fray Pablo Montaño and further expanded and finished by Fray Agapito Buenaflor in 1888 under the supervision of Don Jose Manuel Locsin.

Its two belfries had around 30 bells of different sizes ranging from small handbells to big campaniles making a musical tone.

The Gothic character of the church is manifested not only in its two pointed towers but also on the pointed arches at the main altar and four side altars, pulpits and confessionals.

http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/07/24/molo5.jpg
Molo Church

On August 4, 1886, national hero Jose Rizal dropped at Molo on his way back to Manila from exile at Dapitan in Mindanao. He went to see his friend, Raymundo Melliza who showed him the church.

In his diary, Rizal wrote, "We went to Molo to see the church painted by a lad who has left the locality. The church is pretty (iglesia bonita) outside with paintings inside mostly copies of biblical scenes by Gusty Dore."

Actually, there were two painters who painted the murals inside the church Mariano Mabunay and Jesus Huervas.

The church was so strong that it withstood several strong earthquakes in the past. During World War II, it was the evacuation center of the civilians supervised by its parish priest, Msgr. Manuel Alba.

One of the original towers which was a Japanese machine gun nest, was destroyed on March 18, 1945, when shelled by the artillery of the United States Liberation Forces bringing its bells crumbling to the ground.

http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/07/24/molo4.jpg
The altar of Saint Anne

After the war, restoration of the damaged parts of the church was undertaken by Msgr. Alba and Gov. Timoteo Consing, Sr.

The church, which is dedicated to Santa Ana, the mother of the Blessed Virgin Margy, has larger than life images of female saints lined in two rows (eight on each side) inside the church, each standing on a pedestal attached to a massive stone pillar and under the Gothic style canopy.

These saints are Sta. Marcela, Apolonia, Genoveva, Isabel, Felicia, Ines, Monica, Magdalena, Juliana, Lucia, Rosa de Lima, Teresa, Clara, Cecilia, Margarita and Marta.

At the main altar is the statue of Sta. Ana teaching the scripture to the child Mary with the Holy Trinity at the top.

The right side has Sagrado Corazon de Jesus, San Judas Tadeo, San Esteban and Sta. Rita de Casia.

http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/07/24/molo2.jpg
The female saints

As observed by many, while the female saints are kept inside the church, the streets around the vicinity of the parish are named after the male saints, namely San Jose, Antonio, Marcos and Pedro simply showing how the Moleños give protection to the Moleñas.

At the ceiling of the dome are paintings of the four evangelists.

Recently, murals of the Crucifixion and the Resurrection were added at the sides of the main altar. Biblical scenes and paintings of San Miguel and San Rafael were also added at the door.

On the steps of its doors are the rare piedra china.

Further restoration of the church is still undergoing through the supervision of Engr. Timotel V. Consing Jr and recently, in coordination with the National Historical Institute through the efforts of Senator Franklin Drilon.

http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/07/24/molo1.jpg
The guardians of the main church door San Miguel
and San Rafael

In 1992, the National Historical Institute installed a marker on the church declaring it a national landmark through the representation of Sir Knight Rex S. Salvilla.

Here is the list of the parish priests of Molo since 1975: Father Jose de Carvajal, Leon Magbanua, Hermogenes Magallanes, Felix Gonzaga, Andre Picson, Luciano Nicolas, Pablo Montano, Juan dela Cruz, Jose Sitchon, Agapito Buenaflor, Leonardo Lazaro, Juan Hofilena, Cornelio Salas, Miguel Diocson, Circiaco Serrano, Nicolas Valencia, Miguel Alba, Polecarpio Parcon, Fernando Capalla and Fr. Felipe Parian Jr.

Rev. Fr. Tomas Delicana is the incumbent parish priest. His assistant is Rev. Fr. Jesus "Toto" Mana-ay.

In celebration of the Feast of Sta. Ana, there will be the 6th Gathering of Theology Seminarians in the Visayas on July 25. The Eucharistic celebration at 7 am at the St. Anne Parish will be handled by Most Rev. Angel Lagdameo. On July 26, Most Rev. Antonio Ledesma will celebrate the mass at 9 am.

This year's feast has this theme: "Kabata-an: Bugay nga Bala-an, Gugma sang Ginikanan, Paglaum sang Simbahan."

source: The News Today (http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/07/24/molo.church.her.story.html)

^^ ^^ from the aerial pictures taken by Berniemack, all I can say is, ILOILO is GRAND. Hala Bira Iloilo !:banana:

http://i67.photobucket.com/albums/h291/berniemacksouthcentral/Table1.jpg

Source: MIGEDC Roadmap 2010 (http://www.migedc.org.ph/pdf/MIGEDC_Roadmap_2010.pdf)

http://www.wvuo.info/ideasforthecity/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2007/04/fly_over.jpg
Source: Ideas for the City Blog-CUI (http://www.wvuo.info/ideasforthecity/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2007/04/fly_over.jpg)

Molo District Fiesta (July 26), Molo, Iloilo City. Molo district fiesta in honor of St. Anne.The "landscape" of this district has tremendously changed through the years pertinent to its population growth :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol:

Mass-based organizations urged to join new tourism project
By Maricar M. Calubiran

The Department of Tourism (DOT) is urging the full cooperation of all the prospective stakeholders to take advantage of the Grassroots Entrepreneurs for Eco-Tourism (GREET) program of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

DOT Regional Director Edwin Trompeta said the GREET program will provide the people the opportunity not only to promote the eco-tourism program but provide livelihood to the people. The program will primarily benefit the stakeholders and not just the tour operators.

Trompeta said the program was conceptualized to provide employment opportunities, livelihood creation, balanced ecology and environmental protection, promotion and marketing of ecotourism sites as potential tourist destinations and to develop tourism.
......

In Iloilo, Trompeta recommends the development of Bucari in Leon. It is a possible tourism site if only there are community-based tourism to take charge of the visitors. The site is ideal for tourism attraction with its lined pine trees that resembles little Baguio. The barangay folks are urged to take the opportunity to grab the program.

source: The News Today (http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/07/24/mass.based.organizations.urged.to.join.new.tourism.project.html)

Mayo gid ni tani nga i promote ang Leon. Isa lang gid da problema. Security problem since of Communist Insurgency in the area...

:ohno:

^^ Don't worry, I'll talk to my fellow comrades there in the mountains and the university, wahehehe!!! :lol:

Iloilo Province still lacks the tourism luster. The government is still and will be focusing on agricultural development of the province, especially fisheries and rice production.

Iloilo City on the other hand is aggressive with tourism to lure investors and tourists to make the city alive and kicking after decades of dormancy.

http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa305/judedefensor/iloilocrop.jpg

Buy the latest issue of Expat Travel & Lifestyle to read the full article!

Repost from NIA thread featuring SSC Iloilo's very own Chymera and IAMME. :)

Mayo gid ni tani nga i promote ang Leon. Isa lang gid da problema. Security problem since of Communist Insurgency in the area...

:ohno:

^^ Don't worry, I'll talk to my fellow comrades there in the mountains and the university, wahehehe!!! :lol:

Iloilo Province still lacks the tourism luster. The government is still and will be focusing on agricultural development of the province, especially fisheries and rice production.

Iloilo City on the other hand is aggressive with tourism to lure investors and tourists to make the city alive and kicking after decades of dormancy.
may ara ka gali direct access sa mga taho sa bukid ha? he he. I hope they'll realise their cause one day and decide to cooperate with the government to further the economy. In a slimmest instinct of understanding their goal, I think it's plain stupidity. Well, I just pray they'll see the light in the end of the tunnel and turn their heads to face reality. Life has never been fair at all, most especially for the hardheaded ones. Maybe profound idealism has achieved nothing, in all sense, at all. Oh bless.

Molo: Athens of the Philippines
By Atty. Rex S. Salvilla
President, West Visayas Historical Research Foundation, Inc.

Can any place in the Philippines, aside from Molo, claim to have produced a chief justice, three justices, nine senators, seven governors, several generals congressmen and cabinet members?

Molo has Chief Justice Ramon Avanceñ, Justices Gregorio Araneta (also secretary of the Malolos Congress and first secretary of justice), Raymundo Melliza and Felicisimo Feria.

Its senators are: Francisco Villanueva, Esteban de la Rama, Esperidion Guanco, Jose Ma. Arroyo, Francisco Zulueta, Jose C. Zulueta, Potenciano Treñas, Rodolfo Ganzon and Franklin Drilon.

The governors are: Raymundo Melliza, Amado Avanceña, Gregorio Yulo, Mariano Yulo, Jose Yulo-Regalado, Timoteo Consing, Sr. and Jose C. Zulueta.

The generals of the Philippine Revolution are: Esteban de la Rama (first commandant of the Philippine Marines), Raymundo Melliza, Pablo Araneta, Angel Corteza and Aniceto Lacson.

The congressmen are: Jose Locsin Sian, Amado Avanceña, Rodolfo Ganzon and Fernando Salas together with Constitutional Convention delegates Manuel Locsin and Efrain Treñas.

Molo had also a father and son mayors -- Leopoldo and Rodolfo Ganzon with Mayor Mansueto Malabor and Jerry Treñas, first lady Iloilo City Councilor Simplicia Magahum-Offemaria, famous vernacular writers Angel Magahum, Sr., Rosendo Mejica and Jimeno Damaso; first Miss Philippines and national suffragette Pura Villanueva Kalaw and first Ilonggo nun Rosario Arroyo.

No wonder why Molo deserves to be called Athens of the Philippines. This was so because during the Spanish time it was an educational center of the Philippines. Perhaps, it was the only pueblo (town) in the country which had four colleges -- Colegio de Santa Ana of the Avanceña sisters (Jovita and Ramona), Centro Escolar de Molo of Salas brothers (Perfecto and Fernando), Instituto Ensenanza Libre de Molo of Manuel Locsin and Escuela Publica.

During the American regime, Rosendo Mejica founded in 1903 Baluarte Elementary School (the first in the country) outside of Manila. In 1941, the Iloilo City High School was opened in Molo which became the first free public high school in the Philippines during the time of Mayor Rodolfo Ganzon.

In the sixties, the first college of medicine in Panay was opened in Molo by the Iloilo Doctor's College. Molo is also the present site of the pioneer private maritime school in the Philippines -- John B. Lacson Maritime University Foundation, Inc. (originally Iloilo Maritime Academy) which was declared few years back as one of the best maritime schools in the whole world.

Molo was already a thriving ancient Malay port when the Spaniards arrived in the Philippines in the late 1500's. When nearby Arevalo became the capital of the alcaldia de Ylong-ylong (Province of Iloilo) Molo was its mere suburb until 1818 when it became a pueblo. Its casa real (municipal hall) is still standing beside the Molo church. During the American regime, it became a mere part of the town of Iloilo in 1903 and in 1973 became a district of the City of Iloilo.

For fear of a Chinese uprising similar to that in Manila, the Spanish authorities implementing the royal decree of Gov. Gen. Juan de Vargas dated July 17, 1679, rounded up the Chinese in Iloilo and hamletted them in the parian (now Avanceña Street).

Incidentally, there were only three parians in the Philippines -- Intramuros, Cebu and Iloilo. This explains the prevalence of Chinese surnames in Molo like Lacson, Locsin, Layson, Yusay, Consing, Sanson, Ganzon, Quimsing, Tinsay and Ditching.

When the Spaniards gave surnames to the Ilonggos in 1849 thru the orders of Gov. Gen. Narciso Claveria y Zaldua, they assigned surnames whose first letters corresponded to the first letters of the names of the pueblos.

Thus, Molo was assigned surnames beginning with letter M. The fiercely nationalistic natives did not take Spanish surnames but instead, adopted native surnames like Magahum, Mabilog, Mahinay, Malabanjot, Mabunay, Maprangala, Macatiag, Malabor, Magbanua and Macatual.

During one of the Moro raids, it was said that the Chinese in the parian, who found difficulty in pronouncing the letter "r", shouted Molo, Molo, Molo... hence, the place came to be called Molo.

The original port of Iloilo was actually near the present Molo-Mandurriao Bridge (Gov. Smith Bridge) at the back of the plaza. It was called Tabucan (river crossing). To reach this port from Iloilo Strait, the Chinese junks and Spanish small boats entered the mouth of Batiano River at the small Spanish fort (Baluarte) which before the war was called Treasure Island land.

The junks followed the circuitous river route westward up to Oton where it turned back eastward to Molo. This was so because the Iloilo River was not navigable at that time.

Incidentally, the other side of the river crossing at Mandurriao still retains the name Tabucan.

Molo is also a religious center in Iloilo. Every July 26 thousands of pilgrims from all over the country troop to the imposing Gothic Church to honor its patron saint Santa Ana -- the patroness of childless couples, family harmony, the sick and the afflicted and other of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Molo is also the site of the only orphanage in West Visayas -- Asilo de Molo founded in 1934 by Vincentian Fr. German Villazan together with Doña Pilar Advincula de Javellana and Doña Adela Liza vda. de Mapa and which was placed under the management of the Daughters of Charity. It is located on the lot donated by Don Ignacio Arroyo.

It is the site of mother houses of religious congregations in the Philippines -- Dominican Sisters of the Most Holy Rosary founded in 1925 by the first Ilonggo nun Mother Rosario Arroyo and of the Mill Hill Missionaries since 1906. Molo also housed the Carmelite Sisters in the Philippines before it transferred to Sambag, Jaro.

The district has now four colleges -- Iloilo Doctors College, John B. Lacson Colleges Foundation, Inc., St. Therese-MTC Colleges, Inc. and St. Anne College of Iloilo.

It has also two hotels -- Hotel del Rio and La Fiesta Hotel.

The Mejica Historical Landmark is also found in Molo. It houses items like the first printing press of Makinaugalingon -- the first vernacular daily in West Visayas edited by Rosendo Mejica which hit the streets in 1913 folding up only in 1942 when the Japanese landed in Panay.

Molo is the home of the nationally-known delicacy pansit molo -- a favorite in restaurants in Manila and cookies of Panaderia de Molo and of the Molo County Bake Shop.

Molo is also the site of the nationally famous tourist event -- the annual Paraw Regatta -- race of sailboats in Guimaras Strait.

During the Spanish time, the main defense fort in West Visayas was the La Fuerza del Santisimo Rosario (later Fort San Pedro). Its right flanking fort was Baluarte in Molo where recently two Spanish cannons were discovered in the mud. They are now at the Museo Iloilo.

Molo is proud of its very imposing church -- the only Gothic-Renaissance Church in the Philippines outside of Manila. It was called by Jose Rizal as "bonita iglesia" during his visit at Molo in 1896 on his way back to Manila from his exile at Dapitan.

At present, there are three parishes in Molo -- St. Anne's parish (the original), Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal in Calumpang and San Jose Obrero in Fundidor.

The barangay of Fundidor (foundry) was the seat of many foundry shops during the Spanish time which built most of the bells in Panay. One of them is Regina.

Lastly, Molo claims to be the hometown of Blessed Pedro Calungsod -- beatified recently by Pope John Paul. This beato was a catechist who died a martyr at Guam on April, 1672.

source: The News Today (http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/07/26/molo.athens.of.the.philippines.html)

may ara ka gali direct access sa mga taho sa bukid ha? he he. I hope they'll realise their cause one day and decide to cooperate with the government to further the economy. In a slimmest instinct of understanding their goal, I think it's plain stupidity. Well, I just pray they'll see the light in the end of the tunnel and turn their heads to face reality. Life has never been fair at all, most especially for the hardheaded ones. Maybe profound idealism has achieved nothing, in all sense, at all. Oh bless.

As Raul Gonzales said, UP is a bailiwick of insurgents, especially NPA. :lol: :bash:

I understand their struggle and poverty is always the root of anything commie. But like its capitalist opposite, communism also suffers from imperfection. Profoundly human nature. :)

Anyway, it is only in Iloilo that I've heard that NPA's assist wounded policemen during an attack in one of the towns in south Iloilo before they escape to the mountains. Weird but that's what I called camaraderie! Divided by ideology but still shared the same kasimanwa feeling. The one that happened in Calinog of course is an exception.

sorry but I don't buy any NPA idea at all. Cos if they really are serious to become the voice of the masses, then why are they not doing good to help make the life worth living for the poor - lobby to provide jobs, luring investors, promoting the city, etc. Their brilliant ideologies are apparently masked by their wrongdoings and support of communism and hatred. Are they not aware that they are victimising those who help the society become better and providing jobs for the masses. Again, I'm so sorry for those who join the "causa". They're blinded and wailed to the wrong path.

Mayo gid ni tani nga i promote ang Leon. Isa lang gid da problema. Security problem since of Communist Insurgency in the area...

:ohno:

I agree, Metro. Bigger tourism potential for Bucari, Leon. :banana:

http://www.wvuo.info/ideasforthecity/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2007/04/fly_over.jpg
Source: Ideas for the City Blog-CUI (http://www.wvuo.info/ideasforthecity/blogs/wp-content/uploads/2007/04/fly_over.jpg)


I don't like how the area looks with this new fly-over. :ohno:

medyo bahol yata ang design:ohno:.. straight lang pala ung flyover:ohno: .. saan ba ito sa iloilo?

Wala lang na miss ko yung picture taking with Santa Claus dati sa SM Delgado...hay sarap maging bata ulit.


@IAMME - saan puwede kumuha ng yearbook?
The yearbook is available in the office of News Today at Baluarte. They still have plenty of the 2005 yearbook. I hope the 2006 yearbook has better binding this time.

Repost from NIA thread featuring SSC Iloilo's very own Chymera and IAMME. :)
http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa305/judedefensor/iloilocrop.jpg

:lol: Where can we buy this magazine?

medyo bahol yata ang design:ohno:.. straight lang pala ung flyover:ohno: .. saan ba ito sa iloilo?
Dont tell me that u did not see those name on the photo xavier15..yes its iloilo city: UP-Stoplight junction to be specific. The rendering is different from actual. ;)

BTW, I have a VCD of the promotional video commissioned by the Iloilo Government and filmed by IPX. I think this is from last year. Berns, please ask them if we can post it in YouTube. It's something like 30mins so I guess I'll have to cut the speeches of Tupas.:D It's far from Mayad quality though.:D

medyo bahol yata ang design:ohno:.. straight lang pala ung flyover:ohno: .. saan ba ito sa iloilo?

how arrogant! so it means bahol man gali ang designers! maybe this is refelctive of xavier's exquisite taste!

I don't like how the area looks with this new fly-over. :ohno:

The price of progress sometimes has to be paid. Although I agree that flyovers are NOT only the solutions for the traffic congestion but as well as efficient traffic management and creation of new roads.

medyo bahol yata ang design:ohno:.. straight lang pala ung flyover:ohno: .. saan ba ito sa iloilo?

Ummm, for practical reasons, it has to be straight. Cebu has only one curved flyover and that is in Mactan and it served its purpose. And I prefer that it be simple than a myriad of flyovers like a freeway.

And its function as a vehicular flyover is more important than its aesthetic purpose which may be compensated later by the City Government by landscaping.

BTW, I have a VCD of the promotional video commissioned by the Iloilo Government and filmed by IPX. I think this is from last year. Berns, please ask them if we can post it in YouTube. It's something like 30mins so I guess I'll have to cut the speeches of Tupas.:D It's far from Mayad quality though.:D


Just call Bombette at the Capitol. I have a copy of that too. :)

how arrogant! so it means bahol man gali ang designers! maybe this is refelctive of xavier's exquisite taste!
it doesn't matter whether it's straight or curve as long as it serves the purpose. :) :) And I'm pretty sure that the next 3 flyovers will be of the same design as well. We're indeed grateful that we have these infrastructures ongoing at present. Hala Bira ILOILO !

BTW, I have a VCD of the promotional video commissioned by the Iloilo Government and filmed by IPX. I think this is from last year. Berns, please ask them if we can post it in YouTube. It's something like 30mins so I guess I'll have to cut the speeches of Tupas.:D It's far from Mayad quality though.:D

I will love to see/watch the video. Post away, IAMME !

Dont tell me that u did not see those name on the photo xavier15..yes its iloilo city: UP-Stoplight junction to be specific. The rendering is different from actual. ;)

di nyo na lng pag sapaka ang mga posts ni xavier. ga pinalagpat nah sya nga daan.... :lol: :lol: :lol:

I don't like how the area looks with this new fly-over. :ohno:
I'm sure it'll be crowded tulukon. I can't imagne more if all four flyovers will be operational. Basi indi na ko kabalo mag-drive sa ciudad.

Shy, i think the area will grow more in terms of building constructions, etc. Dira lapit sa Jollibee sa UPV may ara kuno gina-propose. Ambut lang kay daw wala pa man naga-start construction.

di nyo na lng pag sapaka ang mga posts ni xavier. ga pinalagpat nah sya nga daan.... :lol: :lol: :lol:
:lol: :lol: :lol: I know. Seems the same person who used to troll all threads in the past are here again. Keep on eye.

Btw, to dream and have a vision is a wonderful thing imao, BUT to overdream to a point of no basis is a myriad of "tikalon" attitude. Okay man tani kung may basehan biskan diutay lang. :) Sadly, crumpled facts or hearsay man lang tanan.

Flyovers are urban eyesores sometimes. Hopefully later that Iloilo City LGU would compensate that with landscaping it.

On the other hand, Collin and I were discussing about the proposed road construction in the riverside boardwalk. It was intended to be a pedestrian road but the City LGU requested to have it widened to 6 meters, good for 2 lane street along the river as according to the interview of a DPWH official in Bombo Radyo last week. I think if this pushes through, its not intended to serve as an alternative road to Gen.Luna-MHDel PIlar but of recreational function.

They might be constructing a new road intended to divert traffic for motorists traveling from Molo to LaPaz bypassing City Proper district.

‘NO TO TRANSFER OF LOT OWNERSHIP’
Bidding of old airport must go on – Treñas
By Niña Jane A. Souribio

Despite the recent failure of bidding, Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas would not buy the idea of transferring ownership of the old Iloilo airport in Mandurriao district here to the city and province of Iloilo saying “it will be more beneficial if the decades-old facility will be handled by a private sector.”

“Let us leave it to the private sector that can manage it well according to its expertise. Real estate companies can develop it better. It will create more jobs and allow more business enterprises to flourish,” Treñas told reporters yesterday.

If a private entity will take over the old airport, the city will earn more taxes, the mayor surmised.

Three weeks ago, Vice Governor Rolex Suplico filed a resolution urging the Malacañang to transfer the possession of the 54-hectare airport jointly to the city and provincial governments.

BUNGLED BIDDING

This came after the P1.3 billion biddings reportedly bungled because it was marketed way higher than the P800 million to P1 billion appraised value of the lot owned by the Air Transportation Office (ATO).

Senator Franklin Drilon disclosed that the higher floor price was deliberately done to push for a negotiated sale of the 70-year old property.

Due to the bungled bidding, the government might lose potential revenue of 180 million.

However, Treñas is optimistic that the bidding will push through anytime soon.
“Indi lang syudad ang makabenipisyo amo man ang probinsya. The city has a very strong interconnection sa province. Akon lang I can’t think of other things on the airport. Isa sa nakita ko nga kun private sector mauyat, may private tax kita makolekta aside from real property and business tax,” Treñas pointed out.

Suplico, however, said the transfer without cost “would enable the two local government units to jumpstart their respective economies, by planning this valuable property’s joint development.”

CEBU AIRPORT

He cited as an example the old Cebu airport complex in Lahug which was also transferred without cost to the Cebu Provincial Government by then President Corazon C. Aquino when the Mactan International Airport operated in Lapu-Lapu City.

The three bidders were Robinsons Land that submitted a bid of P1.089 billion; Empire East, a subsidiary of Megaworld Corp., that placed its bid at a little over P700 million; and the SM Prime Holdings that submitted a bid of P435 million.

However the bids were way below the P1.2 billion price set by the government.

source: The ILOILO Daily Informer (http://dailyinformer.info/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1260&Itemid=137)

Flyovers are urban eyesores sometimes. Hopefully later that Iloilo City LGU would compensate that with landscaping it.

On the other hand, Collin and I were discussing about the proposed road construction in the riverside boardwalk. It was intended to be a pedestrian road but the City LGU requested to have it widened to 6 meters, good for 2 lane street along the river as according to the interview of a DPWH official in Bombo Radyo last week. I think if this pushes through, its not intended to serve as an alternative road to Gen.Luna-MHDel PIlar but of recreational function.

They might be constructing a new road intended to divert traffic for motorists traveling from Molo to LaPaz bypassing City Proper district.

@Space. Gasakit ang ulo sang moderator sa mga amo na nga posts bala. Indi lang na first time.
any moderator will be pissed off with what he is doing considering he is giving wrong information and signals for the whole wide world to see. I've read some of the info and it's a complete laughing stuck. I don't know whether I'll raise my eyebrows, pat my face to go back to reality or to roll on the ground having a biggest laugh of my life. It's not innocent, it's complete ignorance.

Anyhow, we are moving in Iloilo. As long as Iloilo is moving, the whole Western Visayas is moving forward as well. Well, share the blessings. Let's continue to help Guimaras in promotion and Antique in terms of economy.

P1.8B worth of city’s properties unaccounted
By Francis Allan L. Angelo

ILOILO City Vice Mayor Jed Patrick wants all City Hall department chiefs to keep track of the city government’s properties.

This, after the Commission on Audit (COA) noticed that 81 percent of the city’s total property, plant and equipment (PPE) worth P1.08 billion were not properly recorded.

Mabilog proposed an ordinance mandating all office heads under the City government “to submit a semi-annual inventory report on all properties/equipment” to the City mayor and the Sangguniang Panlungsod.
Mabilog said he was alarmed to discover in the 2006 COA report that a substantial portion of the city’s properties were not in the inventory books.

The COA report said P1.08 billion worth of the city’s properties and equipments “remained inaccurate and unreliable due to non conduct of physical inventory, inadequate records and non reconciliation of the accounts by the General Services Office (GSO) and Accounting Office (AO).”

The report said that since the turnover of the PPE records from the City Treasurer’s Office to the GSO in 1992, “the records were already incomplete, the balances unreconciled and no physical count of all the properties was undertaken.”

The Accounting Office also failed to maintain PPE ledger cards for each item of PPE as required by government accounting rules due to lack of manpower, the COA report added.

The audit body said they have reiterated the same observation in previous years, prompting Mayor Jerry Treñas to create an inventory committee “however the physical inventory taking was not completed this year.”

In his proposed ordinance, Mabilog said “it is imperative that the City Government know the whereabouts of its properties and equipment.”

A semi-annual inventory would also help the City government determine if the equipment or proprieties are still viable, the vice mayor said.

Mabilog said the Local Government Code states that every local government officer must keep an updated and complete records of all properties in their care.

The proposed ordinance also sets penalties for department heads who fail to update their inventories:

- 1st offense – warning;

- 2nd offense – final warning with one-week suspension; and

- 3rd offense – two weeks suspension without pay.

Mabilog fears that the city’s properties might get lost or damaged if they don’t keep track of the inventory.

“We must know where these properties are and if we can still use them. People’s money was used to buy these properties anyway,” he said.

source: The Guardian ILOILO (http://www.theguardianiloilo.ph/)

^^ ^^ ^^ hmmmm ... good for Mabilog. I hope this move will hasten city's offices efficiency.

Finally!!!...someone has the balls to crack down on this "abusadors"! If you happen to pass by robinsons sa mabini-deleon area...puro na lang sikad ang makita mo ang sometimes masaga-idan mo pa sila..its high time to put them back in their proper places and routes kay kasabad gid sa ila...councilor plagata is right, you cannot make poverty as an excuse to break laws

SIKAD DRIVERS PROTEST

More than 200 trisikads impounded

By Francis Allan L. Angelo

Image TRISIKAD drivers vented their ire on the crackdown by the Iloilo City Traffic Technical Working Group (TTWG) on trisikads and motorcycles plying national roads in the city.

More or less 100 trisikad drivers converged in front of the Sangguniang Panlungsod on the second floor of the Iloilo Terminal Market to protest the apprehension of their fellow drivers and their sikad units.

The drivers brought placards and a campaign poster of Councilor Erwin Plagata, chair of the SP committee on transportation and communication and TTWG, emblazoned with the words “Gutom na kami (We’re hungry),” and Ginboto ka namun, nga-a karon indi mo na kami kilala (We voted for you but you don’t recognize us).”
Most of the protesters belong to five trisikad groups – Robinsons Trisikad Owners and Drivers Association (Robitoda), De Leon Trisikad Owners and Drivers Association (Deltoda), Bonifacio Trisikad Owners and Drivers Association (Bontoda), Fuentes-Rizal Estanzuela Trisikad Owners and Drivers Association (Fretoda) and Rizal Trisikad Owners and Drivers Association (Riztoda).

The TTWG began apprehending erring sikad and motorcycle drivers Wednesday with more than 200 units confiscated for lack of permits, franchises, plates, licenses and warning devices.

Even the length of cargo and color of the sikads were examined.

The TTWG concentrated on De Leon-Mabini streets at the City Proper district.

Deltoda president Joselito Ruiz said they only want Plagata to temporarily allow them to ply their routes “because we lost a lot of income already.”

Ruiz said De Leon Street is not a national highway but a city road.

“We are being harassed because we did not know that they will begin apprehending us,” Ruiz said.

Ruiz added that they were allowed to ply roads in the city proper area during the administration of then mayor Mansueto Malabor.

Most of the drivers said they voted for Plagata in the last elections “but he has forgotten our support.”

But Plagata said he is only implementing City Ordinance 131-1987 which sets the routes for trisikads.

“We cannot use poverty as justification for violating the law. If you are hungry, shall we allow you to steal which is illegal?” Plagata said.

Plagata said they have noticed smoother traffic flow on Mabini and De Leon Streets after they banned trisikads from the area.

“If you’re right, you can never go wrong. I’m not afraid because I’m graduating anyway,” Plagata said.

The doctor-turned-councilor said they have to start disciplining trisikad drivers before they can apprehend drivers of motor

Lapaz Hotels and Lodging Houses Booming

Hotels and lodging houses are sprouting in Lapaz Iloilo.The closure of Bayani Hotel was not a hidrance for the New Hotel and lodging house erecting the district..The Grand Dame Hotel along Rizal and Huervana St Lapaz..the tallest of all the Hotels in Iloilo..There are smoke and heat detectors,there are water springkler and alarm..very safe the best gid ya ang hotel nga ini.:banana: :banana: The Anita lodge..along Divinagracia and Huervana lapaz..was the biggest of all the ,lodging houses in iLOILO..big TV set..hot and cold shower...soft and large Beds inside one side mirror and a very clean shower room..very nice..all your worries of the just banish by the meticulous..accentuation to elegance and bodily comfort:banana: :banana: :banana: damu Koreano ga gwa sulod walk in didto:banana: :banana: ..

The Rosa Maria Pension house..nice view every room floors has wall.It has its own telephone..

Lapaz plaza pension made used of high quality tiles for flooring fronting lapaz plaza

Palmares Guest House Magsaysay Village meticulous attention to sanitation hambal sang friend ko:lol: The rooms were specifically design to treat its guest as if it is their home...damu pa di may ara man The Q..etc.

Lapaz the City within the City^^ ^^ :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana::banana: :banana: :banana: :banana:

Lapaz Hotels and Lodging Houses Booming

...damu pa di may ara man The Q..etc.

Lapaz the City within the City^^ ^^ :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana::banana: :banana: :banana: :banana:


hmmmm memories memories.... hahahaha joke lng :rofl:

hmmmm memories memories.... hahahaha joke lng :rofl:

Hala, memories sa Q ha?! hahahaha!!!1 :lol:

Hala, memories sa Q ha?! hahahaha!!!1 :lol:

sssshhhhhhhhhh :lol:

PCU SIFE Team shines in 2007 SIFE Philippines National Exposition

http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/07/26/pcu1.jpg
The delegates from Philippine Christian University
Iloilo.

All roads led to Manila Pavilion and 48 teams representing the more than 300 member schools around the country gathered in a high powered multi-media presentations showcasing the best practices until this years' Philippine entry to the 2007 World Cup to be held in New York on 10-12 October is chosen.

PCU SIFE Team was pitted against the teams from Colegio de la Purisima Concepcion, De La Salle Damariñas, Mondriaan Aura College, Lorma Colleges, Central Luzon University State University, Marbel School of Science and Technology, and the College of St. John (De La Salle-supervised). PCU inched its way to the top 16 and was then advanced to the semi-final round, this time MSU Gen San won the league.

The final round teams are the SIFE teams from Sultan Kudarat Polytechnic State College, Divine World College of Calapan and the Mindanao State University in General Santos City. This year the San Beda College team emerged as the champion. Top CEOs and industry personalities served as final round of judges, namely: Mr. George Sorio, EVP of CyberCity, Mr. Roberto Manabat, chairman of KPMG, Mr. Roger Dallas, president of Bristol Myers-Squibb, Mr. Joey Leviste, president of OceanaGold, executives from the House of Representatives, university presidents, president of FF Cruz, CHED, DTI, and NEDA directors.

PCU team featured their projects conducted in Barangays Nabitasan and Gustilo, La Paz, Iloilo City. Four innovative projects called: SIFE FEED, SIFE SELL, SIFE WASTE, and SIFE PRODUCE benefited about 300 indigents with over 30 SIFErs spending more than 1,000 hours of community service. "It made us responsible, confident citizens of our society", said one SIFEr. "We all came from different communities with varied traits and family backgrounds, but we are all united in SIFE philosophy which is making a difference in the lives of other people."

Next year the PCU SIFE Team will focus on innovative and impactful projects that will bring about greater economic development to the household and the community as a whole. More experts and volunteers will be tapped to assist the team.

On the international scene, an Asian Cup aside from the World Cup will be inaugurated at Kuala Lumpur next year. 1st runner up teams will compete in the Asian Cup while the champion will compete in the World Cup.

Dr. Robert Galindez the president of SIFE Philippines announced that the Philippines is poised to host the Asian Cup and negotiations are underway to hold it in Iloilo City. Since the event is of national significance, support from both the private and public sector will be needed.

source: The News Today (http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/07/26/pcu.sife.team.shines.in.2007.sife.philippines.national.exposition.html)

^^ ^^ ^^ congratulations to Philippine Christian University Iloilo !

Treñas creates census coordinating board

ILOILO CITY mayor Jerry P. Treñas recently created the Iloilo City Coordinating Board (ICCB) in preparation for the nationwide population census to be undertaken by the National Statistics Office (NSO) starting August.

“It is mandated by the National Coordinating Statistical Board that local government units should create their respective coordinating groups to assist NSO in the population count that will be done next month,” Treñas said.

The ICCB is also needed to provide support for the increase in awareness and active participation of the general public to ensure the success of the nationwide population census.

The board is composed of Treñas as chair and city population officer Mary Edurese, assistant schools division superintendent Ma. Febe Cang, city social welfare and development officer Clarita Dignadice and city health officer Urminico Baronda as members.

Some of the functions of the board enumerated in Executive No. 32-2007, are providing NSO with the necessary facilities, publicity and other assistance while the population census is going on; enlist the cooperation of barangay officials for the census and if necessary, provide the services of government personnel to the NSO district while the population count is being done.

“I ask all Ilonggos to support the NSO in the conduct of the forthcoming population census. That will ensure a successful population count and credible database for that matter,” Treñas said.

source: The Guardian ILOILO (http://www.theguardianiloilo.ph/)

Treñas in favor of dividing Iloilo City into 2 districts
By Niña Jane A. Souribio

Mayor Jerry Treñas has announced that he is amenable to plans to divide Iloilo City into two districts.

Treñas viewed the proposal “not in light of the 2010 elections” but in the advantages it will bring to city residents such as more projects.

“It would mean more projects. Puede na nga duha ka districts,” said Treñas citing as examples Cebu City, Davao City and Marikina City.

Cities of Marikina and Cebu have been already divided into three congressional districts each.

“Marikina City which is almost as big as Iloilo City has already divided into two districts. So, I think puede man nga may two districts kita,” said Treñas.
Few weeks ago, reports broke out that the plan to divide the city into two congressional districts is being revived in preparation for the 2010 elections.
If the split will push through, Treñas who is now on his last term as mayor and Iloilo City Lone District Representative Raul Gonzalez, Jr. will both secure posts in the next elections.

The son of Justice Secretary Raul Gonzalez, Sr. has still another term in 2010.
Treñas, meanwhile, was puzzled over the number of voter turnouts in the last elections even as he urged the public and appealed to barangay officials to support the population survey on August.

“The last census was in 2000.Dapat updated ang census and accurate. Madamo di ang gaistar pero indi man taga diri,” said Treñas said.
City residents reportedly numbered to over 360,000 but the number of voters reached to more or less 250,000, Treñas pointed out.

“So sobra mga 100,000 ang mga kabataan diri? So dapat accurate ang numbers,” said Treñas.

source: The ILOILO Daily Informer (http://dailyinformer.info/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1264&Itemid=137)