Iloilo City and Province - Compiled Threads [Archive] - Page 83

IAMME

September 28th, 2007, 06:15 PM

^^ iloilo schools. perhaps you can add these!:) also festivals such as dinagyang, kasadyahan, and paraw regata.
Ok, good idea..

^^ I second the motion. Add up more activities such as feasts, schools, etc. This is like making a brochure (or are you making one?) in which you are selling the salient features of Iloilo. :okay:

This is related to the contacts I asked from you. Maybe we can make a brochure out of it if time permits.

cool... very true!
make it more interesting.. catchy and something which will make a tourist say "this is way different from Cebu and Manila"

In the Jeepneys, you could just say: Ilonggo Jeepneys are amongst the most interesting public vehicles in the country. Extravagant and amusing. It seems that you're riding a carousel with wheels. (but the pasejero sosyal jeepneys are now taking over the vintage jeepneys so this might not be applicable.hehe)

Or perhaps you could say: Ilonggos, the real treasures of Iloilo have tongues pierced with words of romance manifested by their amorous language, Hiligaynon. English is also widely used so it is quite impossible for a traveler to get lost in translation.

:) suggestions lang.hehe... this is the way i write articles...
Nice one.. but for now, I'm writing for an audience who might not be good in English. I'm trying to keep the words as simple as possible:)

Grabeh traffic kaguina. Before I was a skeptic about the need for an overpass in Diversion Road but I experienced a while ago how it was necessary.

May involvement man kay 3 day sale sa SM but still ...

picture to follow later :D

This was the traffic in Diversion Road a while ago, it is the site where the city's second flyover will be built. I was waiting in the jeep for at least 30minutes, actually I dozed of during that time. When I woke up, the jeep moved just a few meters ... so I decided to get down and take pictures from the flyover.

I was shocked that one side was occupied by 6-7 lanes of vehicles (excluding the 2 lanes for PUJs picking up passengers in SM), and the other 3-4 lanes. Grabe traffic, which was aggravated by the 3-day sale of SM.

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1183/1452928046_6aea5dec76_o.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1209/1452066527_a25c9484ca_o.jpg

The intersection ahead is where the flyover will be built

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1017/1452928964_63a57e4718_o.jpg
WAAAH!! I got stuck in this traffic too. It was monstrous! It stretched beyond the stoplight. It seemed impossible for our shuttle to make a U-turn to go to Jaro so we had to go around: Diversion-Stoplight-Molo-Tabucan-Airport-El98. Gosh.. In frustration, people were already getting down the jeepneys and walking the rest of the way.

When I got inside SM I thought it would be packed, hindi naman. Maraming tao but not like what the traffic outside would suggest. I was jokingly thinking to myself that Gaisano hired people to sabotage the traffic at SM :D They are holding a simultaneous sale.

More photos of La Paz

Urban Inn

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1185/1452054759_1c0e192fde.jpg

Ahh.. the once green and ugly bldg. Might they put up a Sari-sari Breadstore at the ground floor? Or perhaps a Handum shirt store.. I wish the owners the best in their business ventures.

New andoks beside andoks

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1055/1452915702_30aba1a435.jpg

I was raising an eyebrow that the new building might be Mang Inasal. Andoks na naman gali?! Wow! This development improved the sidewalk though. It's much wider now unlike before.

eonynx

September 28th, 2007, 06:45 PM

This was the traffic in Diversion Road a while ago, it is the site where the city's second flyover will be built. I was waiting in the jeep for at least 30minutes, actually I dozed of during that time. When I woke up, the jeep moved just a few meters ... so I decided to get down and take pictures from the flyover.

I was shocked that one side was occupied by 6-7 lanes of vehicles (excluding the 2 lanes for PUJs picking up passengers in SM), and the other 3-4 lanes. Grabe traffic, which was aggravated by the 3-day sale of SM.

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1183/1452928046_6aea5dec76_o.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1209/1452066527_a25c9484ca_o.jpg

The intersection ahead is where the flyover will be built

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1017/1452928964_63a57e4718_o.jpg

it may show progress my bad! it really shows how inadequate our roads and road system have become! we need: road widenings, more roads, better traffic management- aside from these flyovers! imagine the many lost manhours and productivity if this type of traffic situation is repeated many times over in one month!

spacewagon1

September 28th, 2007, 06:46 PM

i cant waiT to see those pics of yours whyte! The proposed Mega Showroom, any news, they started already?
I would really love to see this construction in next few months. Iloilo to host the biggest appliance in the country s something we can be proud of. Again this is due to a robust economy Iloilo is experiencing right now. To note, how many new first-class subdivisions are sprouting in Iloilo lately? No wonder APPLIANCES for home, CARS and MALLS are gaining more ad more business strength. Suffice to say, the burgeoning tourism industry in Iloilo at present pushed Iloilo to host more hotels and inns. And to this date, new hotels and inns are continuously increasing in numbers proving the increasing number of visitors coming to visit Iloilo. Today remains the challenging times for all of us Ilonggos to prove why the city and province remains to be one of the pillars of Philippine economy. The influence of Iloilo and Ilonggos are increasing as well. Both in national and international scences. If we're complaining the the city is becoming more densely populated, too much traffic, etc - then take the positive economic side. There will be no such problem like these if our city is lame and porr. But gee, we made it ! he he

Skal International Iloilo chapter underway

Skal, the only international organization that brings together all sectors of the travel and tourism industry, is on its way to having an Iloilo Chapter.

Skal is represented by the industry's managers and executives and they meet to discuss subjects of common interest.

Last Sept. 25, 2007, friends were invited to the initial orientation for the creation of Skal International Iloilo Chapter and there, the officers and members were elected. The group is headed by Department of Tourism Undersecretary for Security and Political Affairs, Salvador Sarabia, Jr.

BEGINNINGS

The first club was founded in Paris in 1932 by travel trade managers who had been on an educational tour of Scandinavia and so the ideal of professionals in travel and tourism working closely together in a spirit of friendship was born. The idea of professionalism and international friendship became immediately so popular that in 1934, Skal achieved international status with the formation of the Association Internationale des Skal Clubs, on the initiative of Florimond Volckaert, the man considered to be the "Father of Skal." The association is now known worldwide as Skal International.

From that modest beginning, Skal now numbers almost 25,000 members in over 500 clubs spread throughout more than 80 countries. As in other associations of professionals, most Skal activities take place locally, but the movement also features national and area committees under the umbrella of Skal International, which has its permanent general secretariat in Torremolinos, Spain.

PHILIPPINES

In the Philippines, it has clubs in Manila, Makati, Davao, Cebu and Bacolod.Charles Lim, councilor of Skal International Philippines , said that having Skal in Iloilo could boost the city and province's travel and tourism industry through the help of Skal's global network. By attending local meetings, national and international congresses and other events, members are able to meet industry colleagues from clubs throughout the world and above all, to network with their colleagues in the industry. These meetings, held in an atmosphere of "amicale," give members the chance to make contacts, on both a business and personal level, and to forge new and lasting friendships.

MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS

Interested applicants should hold an executive senior position in any company for at least five years. Membership fee is 33 euros yearly (approximately P3,800). The benefits of joining Skal are: contacts for business through more than 20,000 tourism-related companies to choose from; annual tourism forum and many opportunities to attend seminars, nationally and locally; networking with 25,000 tourism professionals worldwide; an idea way to meet new professional contacts when you start your own business; meet other tourism professionals when moving to a new city; annual congress in more than 80 countries to choose from; develop new friends within the travel and tourism industry; avail of the Skal News, a quarterly magazine edited by Skal International; access to Skal Database, a membership directory worldwide; membership in the organization will be recognized in many ways as you travel and the Florimond Volckaert Fund, which provides help for members and their families who have fallen on hard times through loss of employment, illnesses and others.

Skal is totally non-political and does not discriminate on the grounds of sex, age, race, religion, politics or social standing. It does, though, support charitable causes.
This is another good move for Iloilo. The entry of Skal or creation of Skal will further boost our tourism industry. But like I said, we have too many promoting agencies in the city lately (ICCHCC, ICCVB, IAHRA, IBC, etc) yet we never touch the base of our promotin still. We still have so many things to learn from our neighbours in Asia and we still have so many things to develop as well. Let's just help and continue to promote Iloilo. I'm glad more and more Ilonggos abroad are doing the same thing as well.

Savannah shapes new urban central in Iloilo

SAVANNAH is the first, biggest and still growing community master-planned development envisioned to be the most important urban center in Iloilo and perhaps the whole of Panay Island.

Spreading in 300 hectares, Savannah takes inspiration from the Old South in the USA – known for its laidback country living, close family ties and time-honored traditions.

Over the years, since hundreds of Ilonggos called Savannah a home, the community has become self-sustaining.

Grand amenities

Savannah offers a wide collection of homes beautifully-designed to meet the needs and aspirations of every Ilonggo who wants to build a better residence.

Four Savannah communities within a larger community are carefully planned: Glen – the perfect home for couples getting started to build a family; Trails – the ideal home for nurturing a growing family; Glades – the upscale community for the well-lived family; and Crest – the “trophy home” reflecting one’s success in life.

Savannah gives you the advantage by putting together all the elements of a dream living that lets you recover from life’s daily battles in a graceful residential retreat.

It’s just 20 minutes away from the new Iloilo Airport in Sta. Barbara while a Circumferential Road connects the residents to the glamour of the metropolis yet enjoy the untainted life in a countryside setting.

In its pursuit on building a major urban center in Iloilo, Savannah entails development after development.

Telephone and cable TV services were set up.

Underground drainage systems were installed to prevent flooding.

Open spaces are well-designed as landscape gardens and parks planted with thousand of trees each year.

Savannah wants its homeowners to enjoy the fellowship.

Recently, Savannah inaugurated the Trails’ basketball court and used the sports in establishing friendship among neighbors.

Clubhouses provide venue for residents to enjoy more time to relax and friendship with fellow homeowners.

This year, two clubhouses with swimming pools are being developed – the Central and Pinnacle Parks at Savannah Glen and Trails, respectively.

As a child-friendly community, not only children’s playgrounds but a school will be established soon for kids to take on the pleasure of learning.

A community convenience store called The Shoppes will soon be available at Savannah Glen and Trails.

The Shoppes conveniently situated and generally spacious will accommodate prime stores such as salons, computer shops, bakeshops, spa, and restos, among others to lighten up the way of living.

Families living inside Savannah relish the lifestyle that is exclusive, secure and simply breathtaking.

With almost all the conveniences available, Savannah is a world in its own.

We have also to commend the people behind introducing Savannah to the Ilonggos.

The sales force has life-changing experiences, too. The property consultants are aware that what they sell would make a difference in the lives of the clients. They have recognized Savannah as a community where a family can live a better life.

Clients looking for homes can be assured that when people talked about living in Savannah, it is based on their experiences and contentment in living in one of them.

For all these years, Savannah progressively developed and will continually extend into a home which we can be more proud of – it is now a prestigious residential hub for the illustrious Ilonggo families.

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

So, they're not constructing a mall but "The Shoppes" in both Glen and Trails? Well, it's a good first move for Savannah. I've heard they are still vying to buy more lands surrounding the subdivisions. Savannah, indeed, is the biggest driver of economy in central Iloilo right now. They can even create their own postcode, which I believe is in their drawing board already. If the whole of 300-hectares will be in full bloom, Savannah could be one of the biggest contributor and driver of economy in Iloilo. I've known few people living there at present. And you can say, that the subdivision is indeed a bedlam of spenders in due time. Cheers to Savannah.

eonynx

September 28th, 2007, 06:52 PM

This was the traffic in Diversion Road a while ago, it is the site where the city's second flyover will be built. I was waiting in the jeep for at least 30minutes, actually I dozed of during that time. When I woke up, the jeep moved just a few meters ... so I decided to get down and take pictures from the flyover.

I was shocked that one side was occupied by 6-7 lanes of vehicles (excluding the 2 lanes for PUJs picking up passengers in SM), and the other 3-4 lanes. Grabe traffic, which was aggravated by the 3-day sale of SM.

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1183/1452928046_6aea5dec76_o.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1209/1452066527_a25c9484ca_o.jpg

The intersection ahead is where the flyover will be built

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1017/1452928964_63a57e4718_o.jpg

it may show progress but my bad! it really shows how inadequate our roads and road system have become! we need: more roads, widening of some existing roads, and better traffic management system- aside from these flyovers.

imagine the lost manhours and productivity if this kind of situation will be repeated many times over in one month!

spacewagon1

September 28th, 2007, 06:59 PM

Grabeh traffic kaguina. Before I was a skeptic about the need for an overpass in Diversion Road but I experienced a while ago how it was necessary.

May involvement man kay 3 day sale sa SM but still ...

picture to follow later :D
he he. I don't know whether to take this badly or positively but as I am always on the shining side most of the time, I'll say, the traffic jam is expected and will continue to worsen in days to come unless we move the business center away from the city area. Iloilo's 70 sq km area can not hold much at present. Imagine all these big businesses sprouting the whole of the city? It will eventually create chaos and in the same way, will push businessmen to relocate new businesses in other towns outside the city. Just have a read of new developments ongoing in Iloilo City. I think it's bit humungous considering the size of the city. But there you go, new infras will be place. Not to solve the netire problem but to lessen the impact of traffic in the city.

Ahh ok. it's the proposed 8 storey hotel. Not started yet, but the plan is to finish allof them by 2015
Nice one. So, WVSU is planning to build new hotel as well? Great addition indeed. I hope they'll start the construction soon. It's the same thing CPU is gearing at present but til now, the proect remains in limbo. Even the new dormitory plan has been put on hold.

This was the traffic in Diversion Road a while ago, it is the site where the city's second flyover will be built. I was waiting in the jeep for at least 30minutes, actually I dozed of during that time. When I woke up, the jeep moved just a few meters ... so I decided to get down and take pictures from the flyover.

I was shocked that one side was occupied by 6-7 lanes of vehicles (excluding the 2 lanes for PUJs picking up passengers in SM), and the other 3-4 lanes. Grabe traffic, which was aggravated by the 3-day sale of SM.

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1183/1452928046_6aea5dec76_o.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1209/1452066527_a25c9484ca_o.jpg

The intersection ahead is where the flyover will be built

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1017/1452928964_63a57e4718_o.jpg
SHOCKING STATE ! Time to move new businesses outside the city. What wil happen to Diversion once the Megaworld project starts? This is one thing that we need to keep on eye with.

I'm not sure what building you're referring to :D. The most recent building that was finished was the IT Building and there are some buildings in the pipeline inc. a new 3-storey nursing building (originally it's supposed to be a allied medical arts building, where the med and nursing colleges will be houses in only one building but indi magpasugot ang CON)
Typical nurses. he he. Daw sa culture na ina iya sang mga nurse subong. I think it's something about the pride gid. he he

eonynx

September 28th, 2007, 07:07 PM

^^ if i were still a nursing student, pasugot ko ya! and i'll befriend a beautiful med student to teach me some anatomy lessons- of frogs! LOLZ

spacewagon1

September 28th, 2007, 07:07 PM

Proponent assures environment-friendly coal power plant
By Erly C. Garcia

Taiwan-based Formosa Heavy Industries Corp. (FHIC) vows to bring clean coal technology here in Iloilo City in the event the proposal for a coal-fired power plant is approved by the city government.

Global Business Power Corp. (GBPC), proponent of coal power plant in the city, will tap the technical expertise of FHIC in the project.

FHIC is a subsidiary of Formosa Plastics Group, Taiwan's biggest private enterprise engaged in various industries such as plastic manufacturing, paper making, textiles, petrochemicals, etc.

FHIC operates several coal-fired power plants in Taiwan with total installed capacity of 14,000 megawatts (MW) using clean coal technology. While FHIC's cogeneration plants generate electricity, steam and water for use by their various manufacturing plants, about three quarters of electricity produced is sold to the state-owned Taiwan Power Company.

Feng-In Hong, senior administrator of FHIC, told a group of journalists from Iloilo City that the company is committed to promote environmental protection and ensure that pollution control measures are properly implemented.

He said the company put up enormous investments in pollution control equipment to address environmental concerns like air quality, water quality, noise, solid waste, and safety.

Hong said through active devotion to research and development, FHIC has been successful in removing or, at the very least, minimizing nitrogen oxide (NOx) and Sulfur Oxide (SOx) and dust emissions in its coal power plants.

"It is our policy that equal emphasis be placed upon industrial development and environmental protection. We make it one of our top priorities that we not only conform to the national environmental standards, but also meet international standards," Hong stressed.

FHIC's cogeneration plant at Hwa Ya Industrial Park in Taoyuan City, Taiwan is located just beside a semiconductors factory owned by an American-German consortium.

Hong said if the power plant has dirty emissions the semiconductors factory would not have been there since semiconductors processing is very sensitive to dust particles.

FHIC also operates a coal-fired power plant in Zin-Shin which is situated at the back of a shopping mall.

Hong said the Taiwan government monitors the operation of all their plants by having direct access on their computerized control panels.

This is the government's way of ensuring that the coal plants do not exceed the required standard for emission levels, said Hong.

All of FHIC's coal power plants use an enclosed coal conveyor system, an electrostatic precipitator which catches solid particulates, continuous emission monitoring system (CEMS), continuous opacity monitoring system (COMS), waste water treatment facility and the latest circulating fluidized bed (CFB) boiler technology.

GBPC Vice President Engr. Adrian Moncada said, with the technical expertise of FHIC the Ilonggos can be assured of an environment-friendly coal power plant similar to that in Taiwan and also in FHIC's subsidiary, the Asia Power Energy Corporation in Mabalacat, Pampanga.

Moncada said GBPC, in partnership with FHIC, is eyeing a coal-fired power plant in the city to address the need for a reliable supply of electricity at a least cost.

He said they are proposing for a 100 MW coal power plant to augment the supply of Panay Power Corporation's existing diesel-fired power plant in the city.

Moncada said the coal plant will serve as baseload energy source for Panay Island including Iloilo City and Guimaras province while the existing 72 MW diesel power plant will be maintained as a peaking plant.

Moncada said the proposed coal-fired power plant will be installed at the vicinity of PPC in Brgy. Ingore, La Paz, Iloilo City.

He stressed that coal is presently the most viable solution to Panay's looming power crisis considering its technical feasibility and commercial viability.

source: The News Today (http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/09/28/proponent.assures.environment.friendly.coal.power.plant.html)

spacewagon1

September 28th, 2007, 07:11 PM

4,000 boy scouts to join
Iloilo jamboree next week

ILOILO City -- This year’s annual jamboree of the Boy Scouts of the Philippines (BSP) Iloilo (Confessor) Council will gather some 4, 000 participants from all over Iloilo province slated Oct 3-7 at the Northern Iloilo Polytechnic State College in Brgy. Puerto Prinsesa, Barotac Viejo town.

BSP Iloilo Council Scout Executive Lorenzo Sayco said that this is one of the most memorable gatherings they would have as they join in the celebration of the centennial year of the worldwide scouting movement which started in London in 1907.

Various activities have been prepared for the participants ranging from team sports, life-saving (water rescue), community development, adventure trail, challenge valley and emergency preparedness.

The participants, according to Sayco would surely enjoy the adventure trail where they will learn about compass reading, trail signs and plenty of obstacles to solve during the challenge valley.

The boy scouts will also be trained on what to do and how to survive during disasters and calamities as experts from various government agencies were invited as resource speakers.

The scouting movement, according to Sayco is not just about fun and excitement. He said it is also essential in youth development, character building and citizenship and leadership skills.

source: Panay News (http://www.panaynewsphilippines.com/guimaras7.htm)

OT: Bernie and eonyx, thanks for the PM. Best thing to do is to keep away from those people. Some remains blinded. What's makes it worst is how the create news to make it better. As for comments, etc, let's keep our analysing culture here in our thread which I believe do well and serve our purpose as a real Ilonggos. Keep going guys! We're hitting the road, fair and square ! Goodluck and Godbless to all of us ! :cheers:

spacewagon1

September 28th, 2007, 07:12 PM

Iloilo City to come up with
protocols on drainage system

ILOILO City -- The Iloilo City government will soon come up with a set of rules that will serve as basis in putting up additional drainage systems and in the cleaning up of clogged waterways.

The flooding experienced by 51 barangays in the city these past few days was attributed to clogged drainage systems and lack of water exit from the drainage.

“While we have already constructed a lot we still have problems. One big problem is the plastics that have congested our drainage,” Mayor Jerry Treñas said.

The mayor said the drainage canal is about 1.2 meters in diameter but it is inefficient because it is full of garbage.

Further, he agreed with the observation that the construction of drainage system in barangays lacks coordination, which resulted in lack of an outlet or exit.

Representatives of the city engineer’s office, DPWH First Engineering District and the city barangay officials will meet Tuesday to discuss the proposed establishment of policy.

source: Panay News (http://www.panaynewsphilippines.com/guimaras5.htm)

IAMME

September 28th, 2007, 07:18 PM

^^Finally! After decades upon decades of flooding, they finally thought of protocols for the drainage system. Isn't it funny that it floods in Gen. Luna Street when it runs just near from the Iloilo River?:ohno:

habagatcentral1

September 28th, 2007, 07:39 PM

^^ And I notice that during really high tides, this certain drainage (corner General Luna-Jalandoni) is also flooded.

daks2003

September 28th, 2007, 07:45 PM

Ok, good idea..

This is related to the contacts I asked from you. Maybe we can make a brochure out of it if time permits.

Nice one.. but for now, I'm writing for an audience who might not be good in English. I'm trying to keep the words as simple as possible:)

WAAAH!! I got stuck in this traffic too. It was monstrous! It stretched beyond the stoplight. It seemed impossible for our shuttle to make a U-turn to go to Jaro so we had to go around: Diversion-Stoplight-Molo-Tabucan-Airport-El98. Gosh.. In frustration, people were already getting down the jeepneys and walking the rest of the way.

When I got inside SM I thought it would be packed, hindi naman. Maraming tao but not like what the traffic outside would suggest. I was jokingly thinking to myself that Gaisano hired people to sabotage the traffic at SM :D They are holding a simultaneous sale.

Ahh.. the once green and ugly bldg. Might they put up a Sari-sari Breadstore at the ground floor? Or perhaps a Handum shirt store.. I wish the owners the best in their business ventures.

I was raising an eyebrow that the new building might be Mang Inasal. Andoks na naman gali?! Wow! This development improved the sidewalk though. It's much wider now unlike before.

^^ ^^ ^^
hehehe I guess Mang Inasal has already over-expanded in Iloilo City...wala gakagat si Andok's sa tripping ni mang inasal hehehe ni wala sya gani ya gagasto advertisements or promo plugs sa print or media.. mind you...Sandy Javier(the slipper wearing owner of andoks) is far more richer than Injap. :)

habagatcentral1

September 28th, 2007, 07:58 PM

daks2003

September 28th, 2007, 08:06 PM

I think that is a brilliant idea. Aside from the fact that it will gain its much need focus and exposure...economically that will perk up tourism revenues for Iloilo City.

Guys, I've heard this proposal from Bombette (provincial tourism officer) himself regarding the seperation of Kasadyahan from Dinagyang.

Kasadyahan, which is a showcase the Ilonggo mainstram cultural presentation and mostly participated by other festivals of Iloilo Province, will be seperated with Dinagyang and will be put up for another date, maybe September. By this, the province can showcase the other festivals without being overshadowed by Dinagyang. Much similar to WVTA and Panaad sa Negros(Occ) or Buglasan of NegOr or Pasigarbo sa Sugbo.

Dinagyang on the other hand will be strictly "Ati-Ati".

What do you think about this idea?

habagatcentral1

September 28th, 2007, 08:10 PM

I remember Nong Space saying that Dinagyang can stand on its own. Then IMO, thats correct.

IMO, Dinagyang is just manifesting the Legend of Maragtas and not the general Ilonggo culture unlike Kasadyahan in which different towns have different dances and cultural presentation in which they manifest what Ilonggo culture really is made of.

As what Dr.Alice Magos said (not the exact words though but same thought) "Ang Sayaw nga Ilonggo gaki-ay ki-ay".

All it needs is support from the private sector and cooperation with the MIGEDC towns,if the tourism budget is still an issue with the Capitol.

habagatcentral1

September 28th, 2007, 10:38 PM

New Iloilo Airport's Air Traffic Control Tower (ATC) a month before the inauguration

by Jianc
7mLsTl7hFmw

chymera00

September 28th, 2007, 11:19 PM

Guys, I've heard this proposal from Bombette (provincial tourism officer) himself regarding the seperation of Kasadyahan from Dinagyang.

Kasadyahan, which is a showcase the Ilonggo mainstram cultural presentation and mostly participated by other festivals of Iloilo Province, will be seperated with Dinagyang and will be put up for another date, maybe September. By this, the province can showcase the other festivals without being overshadowed by Dinagyang. Much similar to WVTA and Panaad sa Negros(Occ) or Buglasan of NegOr or Pasigarbo sa Sugbo.

Dinagyang on the other hand will be strictly "Ati-Ati".

What do you think about this idea?
I think it's a nice idea, something similarly huge like the "Panaad Festival in Negros" and not just a "Tumandok" or a "Fiesta in the City" type. All municipalities need to join and pledge their support and they should have a standard when it comes to the booths of these municipalities.

It's quite an ambitious project but if held successfully, grabe man ang impact.

iloilocitykid

September 29th, 2007, 03:38 AM

^^ I'm just afraid it might not get too much promotion and end up being a big flop. The officials have to be real doers instead of sayers about this IMO.

lewdsaint

September 29th, 2007, 04:00 AM

Bugal sang mga Ilonggo kag Pilipino.....

No rocket science needed for teacher’s award streak

By Ma. Diosa Labiste
Inquirer
Last updated 01:31am (Mla time) 09/29/2007

ILOILO CITY—If life’s a lotto, science teacher Josette Biyo has won it several times.

On Sept. 19, she copped another grand prize, the Presidential or Lingkod Bayan award, given by the Civil Service Commission (CSC) to government workers in recognition of their commitment to the ideals of public service.

And Biyo, 49, who is also the director of the Philippine Science High School in Western Visayas, exemplifies that dedication as a government employee.

Biyo, who has a doctorate in biology, was cited for “developing a culture of science among the youth through research, resulting in the high quality of researches of students and faculty members, gaining both national and international recognition.”

Her work on “introducing science research modules and innovations, giving motivational speeches makes her a world-class teacher worthy of emulation,” according to the CSC.

Biyo is one of the five individual recipients of the Lingkod Bayan awards. Other awardees are Air Force Capt. Giemel Espino, Trade Undersecretary Zenaida Maglaya, Chief Supt. Samson Tucay and Gov. Rolando Yebes of Zamboanga del Norte.

Two institutional awards were given to the Benguet State University for developing potato and sweet potato varieties for the Cordillera, and the Philippine General Hospital.

Most meaningful

“I have won many top awards but this (Lingkod Bayan) is the most meaningful of them all. The screening was rigid and I didn’t expect to emerge as one of the five winners,” said Biyo.

She felt honored to have competed with politicians and ordinary government workers who must have spent years doing their work unrecognized.

Biyo, who joined the government in 1994, is proud to be recognized as an outstanding public employee, aside from being a science teacher.

As a winner, she is entitled to an automatic promotion or a salary equivalent to the next higher position, but the latter is more likely since she is already holding the top position as a director.

The award also comes with a prize of P100,000.

Past awards

Before she received the Lingkod Bayan award, Biyo had won several coveted national and international awards that come with handsome cash prizes. The biggest was the 2002 Intel Excellence in Teaching given in Louisville, Kentucky, in the United States. She not only bagged $5,000 but, as part of the recognition, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Lincoln laboratory also named an asteroid (minor planet) after her.

The Intel award propelled her to celebrity status and opened the door for more awards (a room in her house is filled with these awards).

She received an honorary degree of doctor of humanities from the Manila Central University and numerous invitations to give speeches in the country and abroad.

She also became an endorser of insurance and a pharmaceutical company that eventually supported some science research projects of students, and received citations and medals of merit from President Macapagal-Arroyo, the Senate and expatriates in the US for being the first Filipino and the first Asian teacher to win the Intel award.

Biyo was named one of the Ten Outstanding Young Men in 1998. She received the Metrobank Outstanding Teacher in 1997 and the 2004 Metrobank award “for those who stand out for continuing excellence and service.” The first one has no cash reward, but Metrobank gives P100,000 to winners.

Press darling

Biyo was recognized as outstanding Ilonggo in the field of education by the Iloilo provincial government in 2003.

She is a “press darling” or a bankable personality to be profiled by magazines and coffee table book writers. The stories they wrote conferred on her more recall, giving a face to an otherwise cut-off world of science teaching, and an interesting hook and angle that attracted more readers.

For example, the repeated quote was from Biyo’s book published in 2005 and titled “A Trip to Planet Biyo: I dreamt of stars … I got a planet.” The book, which she distributed to students, schools and private groups, has the message “Being a teacher is a noble profession; being a Filipino is something to be proud of.”

Biyo said many had listened to her message, as shown by the e-mail, letters and feedback that she got. She believed that she “has inspired individuals and companies to pursue their dreams, and even convinced several people, especially teachers, doctors and nurses to stay in the country.”

Biyo tries to wear her celebrity status lightly. She said through SMS: “In winning the awards, you don’t have to be somebody else. Just be yourself and enjoy what you are doing. No rocket science needed. Just consistency of purpose and giving the best of your self for the glory of God and country.”

Link : http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/regions/view_article.php?article_id=91404

iloilocitykid

September 29th, 2007, 04:03 AM

“In winning the awards, you don’t have to be somebody else. Just be yourself and enjoy what you are doing. No rocket science needed. Just consistency of purpose and giving the best of your self for the glory of God and country.”

My favorite quote...bravo!

blueguy

September 29th, 2007, 05:24 AM

blueguy

September 29th, 2007, 05:28 AM

Guys there's a new attarction at the SM Mall of Asia...

THE SCIENCE DISCOVERY CENTER...an interactive science museum equipped with the latest technology. May planetarium, earthquake simulation room, parang star trek...It will open on Oct. We were the first ones to tour the new attraction. Surely, it will be a crowd drawer. In fact it is now fully-booked up to Feb 2008!

kirby21

September 29th, 2007, 07:40 AM

I think it's a nice idea, something similarly huge like the "Panaad Festival in Negros" and not just a "Tumandok" or a "Fiesta in the City" type. All municipalities need to join and pledge their support and they should have a standard when it comes to the booths of these municipalities.

It's quite an ambitious project but if held successfully, grabe man ang impact.
Good idea. Another big festival in the making. I wish the capitol will do its fair share in promoting the new festival. It would be a crowd-drawer in the making. Maybe almost as big or bigger than Dinagyang IMO.

“In winning the awards, you don’t have to be somebody else. Just be yourself and enjoy what you are doing. No rocket science needed. Just consistency of purpose and giving the best of your self for the glory of God and country.”

My favorite quote...bravo!
Congratulations Dr. Biyo! To God Be the Glory !

kirby21

September 29th, 2007, 07:46 AM

Biz group okays wharf privatization
By Jeehan V. Fernandez

A major business group in Iloilo City is supporting the privatization of cargo handling services at the Iloilo River Wharf (IRW) which stretches from the Lopez-Quirino Bridge near the Provincial Capitol up to the Parola area.

Iloilo Business Club Inc. (IBC) president Antonio Jon yesterday said there’s no problem with the port privatization as long as it serves the public interest.

“As long as it is for the common good of everyone, we have no objection. What we were saying before is that it should be done properly, step by step. We also believe that the area should be left to the private sector,” Jon told reporters.

“We are happy that PPA (Philippine Ports Authority) took the steps. They invited lots of bidders. We also sent an observer during the bidding process. It’s up to the PPA as to the results of the bidding,” he explained.

PPA-Iloilo general manager Francisco Salem revealed last week that the operations of IRW will be sold to a private company by end of September.

He disclosed the PPA has created a special takeover unit that prepared and scheduled the national bidding held in Cebu City Sept. 17.

Jon said: “I think we have to look forward and see to it that things are done properly. We are confident of the privatization process. Based on observation, there were pre-requisites followed and we are optimistic of the end result.”

The IRW privatization was broached more than a year ago but it was delayed due to reports that the wharf operations would be handled by an “influential family,” fueling fears it will jeopardize yet again the city’s economic development.

The PPA took over the port operations in 2002 because of problems about extortion syndicates in the area.

But PPA is now ready to give it back to private hands. “We have proposed to streamline the operations – if okay, we give it back to the private sector,” Salem earlier said in a radio interview.

Salem said four out of seven bidders including Iloilo Integrated Arrastre Services Corp. (Iliasco); Makati-based Prudential Customs Brokerage and Services Inc.; Iloilo-based Consolidated Port Management Inc.; and Davao-based Pilipinas Port Services Inc. joined the bidding. He added three other firms were not able to beat the deadline.

Salem said the result of the bidding will be known not later than end of September.

Iloilo has been known as “Port City,” according to website philippinebusiness. com.ph.

“The first advantage which Iloilo can offer investors is its strategic location as a port city. Iloilo lies in the central part of the Philippines, making it easy for the shipment of goods and products to destinations in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao,” the website stressed in its link “Geographics.”

“Iloilo is also near the major sealane which connects Singapore, Hongkong and Australia, or the so-called East-West corridor in the South China Sea – this gives producers better access to their markets abroad,” it added.

The report said the existence of adequate infrastructures which are vital to industrial growth is another advantage – port facilities in Iloilo are excellent.

“The winding Iloilo River itself can accommodate both big and small cargo vessels.

The harbor is protected by the island of Guimaras, making it a safe haven for seacraft even in the worst of storms.”

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

kirby21

September 29th, 2007, 07:54 AM

LTFRB opens new route
leading to new Iloilo airport

ILOILO City -- The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) announced the opening of another route from southern Iloilo towards the new Iloilo airport of international standard in Cabatuan and Sta. Barbara area.

LTFRB Regional Director Porfirio Clavel said the new route is an old developmental road covering the stretch from Oton terminal passing through barangays San Antonio, Nicolas, Pakiad of the said municipality towards Iloilo City’s Mandurriao district, Pavia town and Sta. Barbara.

He said they are now coordinating with the local government unit of Sta. Barbara if they would allow passenger vehicles to enter up to the terminal building or limit them just outside the vicinity of the airport.

“We still have to determine whether the road is already passable to avoid inconvenience on the part of the passengers,” Clavel said.

To date the LTFRB has approved the franchises of three applicant operators

from: Panay News
link: http://www.panaynewsphilippines.com/guimaras5.htm

iloilocitykid

September 29th, 2007, 03:23 PM

^^ Good news. This will definitely save time and money to the Southern District of Iloilo.

spacewagon1

September 29th, 2007, 04:35 PM

another big festival for Iloilo is a welcome idea, indeed. I hope the Kasadyahan or anything else or the gathering of province's festivals will be able to comepte with the city's Dinagyang in the future. Imagine having two to four biggest festivals for the whole year? We already have Dinagyang, Chinese New Year, Nuestra Senora de la Candelaria Fiesta, Paraw Regatta - all are crowd-drawers in their own rights. I hope the province will come up with better ideas, too, and consider this new festival in th eprovince to be held somewhere outside the city but near enough to the new airport.

iloilocitykid

September 29th, 2007, 04:43 PM

^^ Don't forget the Holy Week. I know it's wrong to take advantage of religion as a tool for tourism but last time we drew over 50,000 people during the Holy Week as most went to Guimaras and the City. Paraw Regatta needs more promotion though.

chymera00

September 29th, 2007, 04:51 PM

WVSU MASTERPLAN : 2015

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/67/185363112_2503edf9fd.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/36/185363062_449f1591f5.jpg

spacewagon1

September 29th, 2007, 04:51 PM

That's right. MIGEDC is promoting gregariously of Holy Week in Iloilo-Guimaras. This is the first major project of MIGEDC's tourism promotion and I guess it brings huge impact in our tourism industry. With collaborative effort from MIGEDC towns, I think projects, proposals, etc will sure as success since most the them will run thru the process of MIGEDC member towns plus a ig support from international partners.

Paraw Regatta is starting to pick up in recent two years. Now, it tied up with John B Lacson Maritime UNiversity and Norweigan-company for support for its activities. Also, Paraw Regatta had recently created their own foundation to support the festival, which I believe is vital to the promotion and success of the festival. The city government is all-out supporting the festival, too, giving it a big boost for more promotion. I think in due time, Paraw Regatta will make even half of what of Dinagyang at present. Dinagyang, being the only festival supported by United Nations for its MDG;s program.

iloilocitykid

September 29th, 2007, 05:18 PM

WVSU MASTERPLAN : 2015

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/67/185363112_2503edf9fd.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/36/185363062_449f1591f5.jpg

Chy, the tall one at the back, is that the 8-storey hotel? Is it WVSU's project?

Anyway, when's the planned completion of the gate?

spacewagon1

September 29th, 2007, 05:24 PM

^^ Impressive development. Way to go for WVSU !

spacewagon1

September 29th, 2007, 06:42 PM

Agri Summit opens doors to
WV investment opportunities
By LYDIA C. PENDON

ILOILO CITY – The 2-day Agriculture Summit held September 27-28, 2007 at the Amigo Terrace here is opening up new avenues for investment opportunities in Western Visayas, as well as market opportunities for the region’s livestock industry.

In reporting the region’s agriculture situation, Asst. Reg. Dir. Joyce Wendam stressed that Region 6 was declared internationally as free of foot and mouth disease and as such, is major supplier of pork and meat cuts in Metro Manila, Cebu and other major cities in the country.

Agriculture Secretary Arthur Yap keynoted the summit spearheaded by the Iloilo Business Club that gathered various agri-aqua stakeholders in the region to discuss the various business and investment opportunities in agriculture.

Wendam focused on the eight investment opportunities in the region ripe for stakeholders to take up and avail. This includes the utilization of farm wastes into biogas and organic fertilizer as the province of Iloilo is considered as the rice granary of the region.

Other opportunities cover the hog fattener and breeder production, meat processing and packaging, export of pork or processed pork through the “pork-in-a-box” program, fabrication of stalls, cages and other livestock housing equipment, trucking and refrigerated vans for hire, shipping and transport of live hogs, and establishment of triple A abattoir.

Iloilo City will soon have a Double AA new and modern slaughterhouse and so far, the region has no Triple A slaughterhouse yet.

Market opportunities for livestock products abound and presently, the local swine producers are not capable of supplying the needs of the market. The local swine raisers also market their finishers at 8-85Kg liveweight, thus serving only the fresh market while meat processors prefer 110-120 Kg liveweight because of its better carcass yield.

Furthermore, meat processors requirement is equivalent to 500,000 slaughtered pigs at 120 Kg liveweight per year. (www.panaynewsphilippines.com)

source: Panay News (http://www.panaynewsphilippines.com/business2.htm)

IMPRESARIO

September 30th, 2007, 01:00 AM

my 2 cents...

1. may pera for shopping pero wala pera for church repair? i hope my analogy isn't correct.

2. Traffic,flooding problems in the city, we really need to fix it, i hope that they come up with great ideas to deal with this outstanding problems.

3. About the Kasadyahan being separated from Dinagyang, i think its a wonderful idea, we can make it grander by highlighting it. Something like the Panaad sa Negros. Hoping for this proposition to push through.

iloilocitykid

September 30th, 2007, 04:34 AM

^^
1. Is it the Jaro Cathedral you're talking about? So far, they've breached the 6 million barrier and that's because of lack of promotion.

2. Dikes and dams? Same as those in Denmark but it's way too expensive.

3. I wish it will be a hit. Kasadyahan always is just a side-show compared to Dinagyang.

kirby21

September 30th, 2007, 05:14 AM

^^ the church needs to promote if they want to raise this big amount. I'm sure there are too many benevolent Ilonggos around waiting to give for the cathedral's reconstruction. They just need to spread the info evenly. Otherwise, nobody's read what's on their mind or no one's a mind-reader. But IMO, the church is losing its clout to the business sector in the city at present due to their support against coal and some political issues, too. It's sad but this is a definitive truth.

iloilocitykid

September 30th, 2007, 05:15 AM

^^ Well, Christmas is still coming and who knows maybe the big and powerful Lopez or Floretes might give them money.

kirby21

September 30th, 2007, 05:16 AM

iloilocitykid

September 30th, 2007, 05:21 AM

MANG INASAL

PASAY CITY

Mang Inasal G/F Main Mall, SM Mall of Asia (facing South Terminal)
SM Central Business Park I
Island A, Bay City, Pasay City

Mang Inasal Taft Ave. Buendia
Pasay City

MUNTINLUPA CITY

Mang Inasal G/F Metropolis Mall
Alabang, Muntinlupa City

CITY OF MANILA

Mang Inasal G/F Harbor Square CCP Complex
Roxas Blvrd. Manila City

BICUTAN

Mang Inasal G/F SM City Bicutan, Hypermart
Bicutan

CAVITE CITY

Mang Inasal G/F Terreza-Dazma, Robinsons Place
Dasmariñas, Cavite

BAGUIO

Mang Inasal SM City
Baguio

LAGUNA

Mang Inasal G/F SM Sta. Rosa
Sta. Rosa, Laguna

LIPA

Mang Inasal SM City

ILOILO

Mang Inasal G/F Robinsons Place Iloilo Carpark Bldg.
Iloilo City

Mang Inasal G/F Marymart Mall
Iloilo City

Mang Inasal UGF SM City
Mandurriao, Iloilo City

Mang Inasal G/F Gaisano City
Iloilo City

Mang Inasal G/F Iloilo Supermart
Mandurriao, Iloilo City

Mang Inasal G/F ledi Supermart
Jaro - Plaza, Iloilo City

Mang Inasal Regent Arcade
Iloilo City

Mang Inasal Lasalette Valeria St.,
Iloilo City

ROXAS CITY

Mang Inasal Bldg. TATC,
Roxas City

Mang Inasal G/F Gaisano City
Roxas City

Mang Inasal Gaisano Marketplace
Roxas City

BORACAY

Mang Inasal D' Talipapa
Boracay

Mang Inasal D' Mall
Boracay

NEGROS OCCIDENTAL

Mang Inasal Libertad Extension
Bacolod City

Mang Inasal G/F Gaisano City
Bacolod City

Mang Inasal East Block Circumferencial Road
Bacolod City

Mang Inasal G/F Gaisano City
Kabankalan City

CEBU

Mang Inasal SM City
Cebu

DAVAO

Mang Inasal Cor. Ilustre-Duterte Sts.
Davao City

Mang Inasal UGF SM City
Davao City

Mang Inasal Gaisano Mall Of Davao
Davao City

KORONADAL

Mang Inasal G/F Fitmart Mall
Koronadal City

CAGAYAN DE ORO

Mang Inasal Pelaez Comm'l Arcade
Divisoria-Cagayan de Oro

Mang Inasal G/F SM City
Cagayan de Oro

Mang Inasal Gaisano City
Cagayan De Oro

ZAMBOANGA

Mang Inasal Southway Mall

Coming soon

PARAÑAQUE
Liana’s Mall Sucat
TABUNOK - CEBU
Mang Inasal Gaisano Fiesta Mall
Mang Inasal Robinsons Cebu

GENERAL SANTOS
Mang Inasal G/F KKC Mall

This is just 4 years in the making

kirby21

September 30th, 2007, 05:31 AM

^^ fab development. It's what we call aggressive business strategy.

iloilocitykid

September 30th, 2007, 05:32 AM

TED'S LAPAZ BATCHOY

Iloilo

La Salette Bldg.,
Valeria St.,
Iloilo City

Gaisano City Iloilo
Luna St.,
Iloilo City

Lapaz Extension
Rizal St.,
LapazIloilo City

SM Jaro
Hechanova St.,
Jaro, Iloilo City

Diversion Road
Molo, Iloilo City

Robinson's Place Iloilo
Cor. J. De Leon Mabini Sts.
Iloilo City

Atrium Foodcourt
Gen. Luna St.Iloilo City

Bacolod
Gaisano City Bacolod
Araneta St.,
Singcang, Bacolod City

Robinsons Place Bacolod
Manadalagan, Bacolod City

Gaisano City Mall, Kabangkalan City
Negros Occidental

SM City Bacolod

Roxas City

Gaisano City
Arnaldo Blvd., Roxas City

Aklan

Gaisano City Mall
Andagao, Kalibo,
Aklan

Luzon

SM Southmall
Alabang-Zapote Rd.,
Las Piñas City

SM City Dasmariñas
Sampalok, Dasmariñas
Cavite

SM City Fairview Annex
Novaliches, Quezon City

Festival Supermall
Alabang, Muntinlupa

SM Mall of Asia
Pasay City

Franchising Outlets
(Iloilo)
-U/G/L SM City Iloilo, Iloilo City
-Marymart Mall, Valeria St., Iloilo City
-Corner Casa Plaza Bldg., Iloilo City

(Mindanao)
-SM City Davao, Davao City
-KCC Mall, Gen. Santos City
-Fitmart Mall, Marbel, Koronadal City

Uhh...70 years in the making

kirby21

September 30th, 2007, 05:36 AM

grabe research mo, iloilocitykid, bah! More infos, mate !

iloilocitykid

September 30th, 2007, 05:39 AM

QUEENBANK

Head Office
Skycity Tower (8 storeys), Mapa St., Iloilo City Proper

Visayas
Valeria St., Iloilo City
Huervana St., La Paz, Iloilo City
Roxas Avenue, Roxas City
San Juan St., Bacolod City
Sanchiangko St., Cebu City

Mindanao
Capistrano St., Cagayan de Oro City
San Pedro St., Davao City

Luzon
A.B. Fernandez Avenue, Dagupan City
Cor. Biak-na-Bato & F. Espiritu Sts

Uhh.. 20 years in the making.

iloilocitykid

September 30th, 2007, 05:42 AM

This must be the 2nd tallest building in Iloilo City, for now...:lol:

Queenbank Corporate Headquarters
Also houses Bombo Radyo and probably other R. Florete's businesses

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1319/1460393873_8e2b99a023_o.jpg

iloilocitykid

September 30th, 2007, 05:48 AM

kirby21

September 30th, 2007, 05:50 AM

I think Queenbank needs to expand by now. Even in Iloilo (city and province), Queenbank has only limited branches only. I want to see more of Florete's clout when it comes to banking.

iloilocitykid

September 30th, 2007, 05:51 AM

^^ Agree. Iloilo's tycoons that got successful were Lopez and Florete. Too bad Lopez had to go to Manila.

iloilocitykid

September 30th, 2007, 05:55 AM

iloilocitykid

September 30th, 2007, 05:57 AM

Other than these, I do not know any other companies to post of...

kirby21

September 30th, 2007, 06:08 AM

^^ that's quite an info for all of us. Thanks for posting them here. I think Waffletime is also an Ilonggo-owned company? I don't know when it comes to other accessories.

COLLIN JASPER

September 30th, 2007, 06:09 AM

Nice posting @iloilocitykid.thanks. Queenbank Valeria and Skycity tower branch is the most expensive and beautiful edifice in Iloilo, 2nd is Equitable Valeria

iloilocitykid

September 30th, 2007, 06:14 AM

^^ Yes. The stone thingy - what's that stone? is just perfect...Also, Skycity's top floor has the best scenery of Guimaras and the Strait.

IAMME

September 30th, 2007, 06:47 AM

Sari-Sari Bread Store

It was in the 2nd quarter of 2002, that we approached FRANCORP to study SARI-SARI BREADSTORE with about 70 outlets in the Visayas if it can be franchised. We lacked the confidence but they were there to give us the necessary boost and professional advise to set up our franchise system and operations manual. In November 28, 2002, the first franchise store of SARI-SARI BREADSTORE in Luzon was opened in Araneta Center, Cubao, Quezon City. In just a little over 6 months, we have 6 operating franchise stores located in Cubao, Novaliches, San Mateo, Rizal, C.M. Recto in Manila, Bacoor, Cavite and Sta. Cruz, Laguna. One will soon open in Malinta, Rizal, another 2 in Caloocan City and Blumentritt, Manila are under construction, and now more whose applications are still being processed. Thanks to FRANCORP!

Jerome J. Genson
President-CEO
Sari-Sari Breadstore Ventures Int’l Corp.
They also have other ventures such as water purifying, a restaurant, beauty parlor, carwash, shirt manufacturing, design, and printing, soon urban inn, and perhaps more.

Sari sari is notable for having over 200 kinds of bread. They don't sell them simultaneously though.

^^ Yes. The stone thingy - what's that stone? is just perfect...Also, Skycity's top floor has the best scenery of Guimaras and the Strait.

Granite i think.

COLLIN JASPER

September 30th, 2007, 06:55 AM

^^ Yes. The stone thingy - what's that stone? is just perfect...Also, Skycity's top floor has the best scenery of Guimaras and the Strait.

That is GRANITE

eonynx

September 30th, 2007, 09:26 AM

eonynx

September 30th, 2007, 09:29 AM

daks2003

September 30th, 2007, 10:59 AM

You forgot Alfonso Uy of the Uygongco's. Their flour mill is the second largest in the Philippines, that is just next to San Miguel Flour Mills.

http://www.philforemost.com/

^^ Agree. Iloilo's tycoons that got successful were Lopez and Florete. Too bad Lopez had to go to Manila.

iloilocitykid

September 30th, 2007, 02:27 PM

^^ Is that building along the River Wharf owned by Philforemost Milling Company? (the tall mill)

spacewagon1

September 30th, 2007, 04:29 PM

full of infos here. Cheers!

spacewagon1

September 30th, 2007, 04:41 PM

i like this building! how i wish it is located in an area that is more visibible.
where is this Queenbank Corporate Headquarters again?

iloilocitykid

September 30th, 2007, 04:51 PM

^^ It's in Mapa St. near Ateneo. It's not visible especially when you're in the city proper but it is quite clear especially when you're riding a banca coming from Guimaras.

eonynx

September 30th, 2007, 05:06 PM

^^ perhaps, a good view of guimaras can be had in the upper floors of this reasonably tall building?:dunno:

iloilocitykid

September 30th, 2007, 05:43 PM

^^ Probably. In Queenbank's site, there's a pic of Florete (if it's really him) standing beside the window, probably the top floor, with a good view of Guimaras.

chymera00

September 30th, 2007, 08:50 PM

^^ perhaps, a good view of guimaras can be had in the upper floors of this reasonably tall building?:dunno:
Yeah, my friend told me about a radio program of Bombo Radyo. The host would sometimes describe the view he had of the Iloilo strait, the sky, guimaras island and would say that the weather was great or something like that. So yeah, nami guid man to guro view sa babaw.

I tried entering the building once but the guard caught me and wouldn't allow me to get to the upper floors, hehe.

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

PCG rescues 48 passengers from stranded vessel in Iloilo Strait

Forty eight passengers and 10 crew members were rescued by the Philippine Coast Guard from a Weesam Express fast sea craft stranded off the waters between Guimaras Island and Iloilo Sunday.

The sea vessel which left Bacolod City en route to Iloilo was stranded in waters off Iguana Bank, a shallow portion of the Iloilo Strait.

No one was hurt although the stranded passengers had to wait 10 hours for the Coast Guard who called in three privately-owned sea vessels to assist in the rescue.

The rescued passengers were brought to the Dumangas Port Sunday afternoon.

The Coast Guard and Weesam Express management will investigate if the vessel was thrown off course by strong waves spawned by Tropical Depression Hanna.

http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/Story_Page/tabid/55/cat/regions/news/3852/Default.aspx

iloilocitykid

October 1st, 2007, 01:43 AM

PORT HOODLUMS
Privatization could open port
to thugs again – Peñaredondo

By DAVID ISRAEL SINAY

ILOILO City – The privatization of stevedoring services and arrastre operations at the Iloilo River Wharf (IRW) could pave the way for the return of unscrupulous port operators, to the detriment of the local business climate, warned Councilor Eduardo Peñaredondo.

The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) is pushing for the privatization of the IRW.

“Is the PPA ready to turnover the operations to a private company?” asked Peñaredondo.
“In my observation, PPA’s takeover of stevedoring and arrastre operations at the port (in 2004) spelled a lot of difference,” said the councilor who also runs several businesses in the metropolis, including shipping.

He recalled the “old system where there were a lot of clamor from the traders and passengers at the wharf” when port operations were not yet handled by PPA.

In 2004, the PPA took over the port operations at the IRW with the backing of then Senate President Franklin Drilon in the wake of a series of criminal incidents in the area such as smuggling, drug trafficking, murder and extortion.

The takeover brought relative peace to the wharf and the waterfront area.

Should the privatization push through, Peñaredondo said the PPA should continue its “strong leadership and supervision” at the port.

“They should give the franchise to an operator who is responsible and respected. If the things that happened before PPA took over the port happen again, shippers would shy away,” warned Peñareondo warned.

The councilor said PPA’s management of the wharf resulted to improved services unlike the time when it was in private hands.

“Shippers and traders, in and out of the city, have no more clamor. PPA’s rate is standardized. It has close supervision on arrastre and stevedoring services, resulting to efficient services rendered to merchants and passengers,” Peñaredondo added.

RACKET
Peñaredondo claimed to have personal knowledge of how hooligans worked at the port before PPA took over.

“Some stevedoring services would delay loading and unloading of goods (if you won’t agree with their terms),” he recalled.

“You would wait and wait for them to load or unload your shipment. Your trip is delayed. Instead of shipping four to five times a day, you waste your time,” he said.

Peñaredondo also recalled that some port workers would resort to gimmicks to fleece money from traders.

“They would give you alibis -- that they’re hungry, that it’s too hot … and leave your shipment…,” he said.

The truth was, the councilor revealed, they were asking for additional payment. “You were being held hostage,” he said.

This is bad for business, Peñaredondo said.

“Your shipments to Palawan, Manila, Cebu or Bacolod (or to any part of the country) got delayed .. destroying your image and business dealings,” he explained. “Inside the ship, if you don’t give a tip … your shipment would incur a lot of damage.”

“Previous operators threatened traders at the wharf … you cannot do anything but to give in to their demands. There were lots of hassles at the waterfront then,” Peñaredondo said further.

Yet, he said, businessmen then would rather give in to the demands of these thugs just to have their shipments loaded or unloaded.

“But this affected the general public because the businessmen eventually passed on to the consumers the expenses they incurred in the loading or unloading of their shipments,” Peñaredondo said.

Then, operators demanded illegal fees for every service rendered and “would mis-declare or shortchange their income for the day to pay less to the PPA,” he also revealed.

The PPA then had a share of 10 percent of the daily income on stevedoring services and arrastre operations at the wharf.

“For example, if they have an income of about P100,000 for the day, they would report only P8,000 and pay PPA only P800 instead of the supposed P10,000 – raking for themselves millions and millions of pesos from the wharf,” Peñaredondo said.

In a text message, PPA Port Services Division Manager Francisco Salem said the privatization process is underway.

PPA is evaluating the financial proposals of the bidders.

Those that submitted their tenders at the PPA Visayas office in Cebu City on September 17 were Iloilo Integrated Arrastre Services Corporation, Prudential Customs Brokerage Services Inc., Consolidated Port Management and Services Inc. and Pilipinas Port Services Inc.

Salem said he could not ascertain when the winning bidder would be announced.

In an interview last week, Iloilo Business Club president Antonio Jon said, “we will wait and see. (PPA) has put a lot of criteria for qualification … we have to trust the judgment of the PPA.”

iloilocitykid

October 1st, 2007, 01:43 AM

2007 Mina, Iloilo fiesta queen a
globe-trotting young achiever

ILOILO – Nadine Defensor is 17 years old. She was born on January 15, 1990 in Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija, and the eldest daughter of Engineer Marlon Defensor of Mina, Iloilo, and Julieta Manuel Gravador-Defensor of Gapan, Nueva Ecija.

Nadine was only six months old when she was brought to Kuwait with her mother on August 2,1990 – the day when the Iraqis invaded and taken over the country.

Fortunately their flight was just entering the Kuwaiti territory early morning of that fateful day, and with the Kuwaitis still manning the airport control tower.

Their flight was safely diverted to Bahrain in the last minute, where they took the return flight to Manila. She was about two years old when she finally moved to Kuwait where they still currently reside.

Nadine has two younger siblings, Mark (11 years old) and Marla Mae (9) – all born in Kuwait. A close-knit family, each year they travel to the Philippines in summer or December to visit relatives.

During her elementary years, she went to the Kuwait International English School and the New English School in Kuwait. In 2002, she was about 12 years old when they moved to Lagos, Nigeria, where her dad was posted as Operations Manager of one of the US Oil Companies. With the move, she experienced a huge cultural change – relocating from a conservative Arab country to a tropical and lively nation.

Nadine was in 7th grade when she attended the American International School of Lagos (AISL). With her dad working for an international oil company, and with very strict security measures in place at all times, her leisure time in the country was limited.

In Nigeria, she was, however, blessed to have an amazing circle of international friends from the school. AISL is one of the best American Schools and has best campus outside of USA. The school itself was pretty much fun for the students as it organized school social affairs and family fun days which really got the whole school community involved.

Recently her dad was once again recalled to Kuwait for his second tour of duty in the country. That was welcome news to the family as Kuwait is second home to them.

In no time, she again settled back in the country, and with her siblings all now went to the American International School of Kuwait.

Nadine is currently a High School senior at AISK and has been busy attending to many extra-curricular school activities.

She is in the junior varsity softball team, the National Honors Society, and in the Model United Nations (MUN). Being a member of MUN has honed her skills as a forum speaker and she has become a well-rounded student. In the last MUN convention held in Kuwait, she was adjudged the outstanding delegate as Chairman of Commission on Human Rights. Very soon she will travel with the THIMUN Team to participate in world convention in The Hague, Netherlands.

Last March she was chosen as a member of AISK F1 Racing Team, Design Technology Challenge that competed in World Model Car Grand Prix in Melbourne, Australia.
A consistent US presidential awardee for academic excellence, Nadine maintains being part of the high honor roll every year.

Like any normal teenager, she enjoys shopping as a hobby. During her free time she plays the guitar. She is likewise an accomplished clarinet player and is a member of the school band.

She enjoys listening to music, watching “Friends” and “Grey’s Anatomy”. On her spare time, she enjoys browsing through magazines and reading good books. Last year she started challenging herself by taking up Advance Placement Classes (college classes offered in High School). This is part of her preparation to enter college. She is currently getting invitations (to enroll in College) from several prestigious universities in the USA – where in one of them she will likely enroll next year. As an option, she is also contemplating to follow the footsteps oh her dad in the University of the Philippines.

The beautiful young lady is planning to take up a degree in Economics or Engineering.

She likewise fancies the Foreign Service schools. Just like her father, she wanted to have a career that will take her later to international assignments.

spacewagon1

October 1st, 2007, 02:19 AM

Yeah, my friend told me about a radio program of Bombo Radyo. The host would sometimes describe the view he had of the Iloilo strait, the sky, guimaras island and would say that the weather was great or something like that. So yeah, nami guid man to guro view sa babaw.

I tried entering the building once but the guard caught me and wouldn't allow me to get to the upper floors, hehe.
that could be one of the best views Guimaras Island from Iloilo.

Chymera, why not ask the Bombo Radyo management? I don't think they'll spare this opportunity for you especially if they know what the photos are for.

spacewagon1

October 1st, 2007, 02:22 AM

Western Visayas hosts
Nat’l Organic Congress

ILOILO City – Some 300 technical experts, researchers, extension workers, representatives of the local government units, farmers, entrepreneurs and other stakeholders all over the country are expected to convene on October 17 to 18, 2007 for the 4th National Organic Congress.

Collaboratively hosted by the Bureau of Agriculture and Fisheries Products Standards (DA-BAFPS), Western Visayas Agriculture and Resources Research and Development Consortium (WESVARRDEC) and the Panay Organic Producers Association (POPA), the Congress will be held at the Sarabia Manor Hotel and Convention Center in this city.

The two-day Congress is anchored on the theme “Converging thrusts for Organic Agriculture Development in the Philippines”.

“This is a significant event as right now the trend for organic food is already worldwide,” said Dawn Jamandre of the POPA.

Western Visayas is a major producer of the organic “muscovado” sugar, organic “darag” native chicken, organic “balangon” banana chips and other organic products.

The opening program on October 17 will be followed by a presentation of an Overview of Organic Agriculture in the Philippines.

Other plenary topics in the morning of October 17 include The Growing Global Demand for Organic Food, Organic Trade of the Philippines, Enabling Regulatory Mechanisms for Organic Agriculture.

The Congress will also cover topics such as A Winning Platform for Rural Development, Internal Control System, Negros: The Organic Island, Nurturing Nature in Farming, Organic Banana: No longer the same banana, Organic Aquaculture, Muscovado: The Sweet Success, Towards Organic Farm Conversion and Organic Certification.

Aside, to disseminate information on the status of organic agriculture in the country, the Congress has also the following objectives: to promote organic farming technology, and organically-and naturally-produced food; to provide venue for learning and sharing of knowledge and experiences on organic agriculture; to discuss current issues and concerns relating to the development organic agriculture in the Philippines; and to encourage networking and linkages of organic agriculture practitioners, advocates, stakeholders, academe, and government.

source: Panay News (http://www.panaynewsphilippines.com/guimaras5.htm)

spacewagon1

October 1st, 2007, 02:39 AM

Iloilo tops assets, spending in 2006
By Francis Allan L. Angelo

ILOILO is one of the richest and top spending provinces in the country, according to the Commission on Audit (COA).

Based on the COA’s Financial Highlights of Local Government Units for 2006, Iloilo ranked 7th among the top 10 LGUs with the biggest assets.

Iloilo, according to the COA report published in a national daily last week, has P834.68 million worth of assets.

Cebu province topped the category with more than P1.5 billion in assets.

In whole, the COA noted that this year’s total assets of LGUs amounting to P427.53 billion was higher by P37.55 billion than last year’s level of P389.98 billion.

Iloilo also ranked 10th among “big spending” provinces with P936.13 million in expenditures.

Bulacan was top spender province with P1.349 billion while Cebu was at second place with P1.340 billion. Negros Occidental ranked 3rd with P1.339 billion in expenditures.

The audit body also noticed that the 2006 expenditures of LGUs amounting to P177.53 billion increased by 11.62 percent from P159.05 billion in 2005.

Iloilo province also ranked 10th among provinces that received the highest Internal Revenue Allotment share with P855.20 million.

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

^^ ^^ very impressive indication of our economic outlook in Iloilo (province) at present.

Comment:
On ASSET (no.7) - we still need more improvement to improve our infras and tax collection. But being no. 7 with the biggest asset in the country is something we Ilonggos can be proud of. Maybe one reason why the provincial (capitol) government is very keen to develop a convention centre and IT Park to increase their asset. Hopefully, all the provincial government plan will be realised.

On SPENDING (no. 10) - well, we're not bad thinking that we're quite of a saver than a spender. Meaning, we are turning the table slowly. he he. Thing is, we maintain our thriftiness within us. Being in the 10th is a good balance IMO.

On INTERNAL REVENUE (no. 10) - I think our provincial government needs to work on this issue. We need more income to raise our IRA share. But looking at the amount the governent is allocating the province to spend, I think this is already a good amount to create more projects.

Overall, impressive impact on our booming economy in the province.

Nota Bene:
I've read in Panay News today regarding Cebu being the province with 4th highest debts in the country today. Nothing against Cebu as it is their own concern BUT what ticks me off is what is Iloilo's rank when it comes to DEBTS, too? I hope Panay News will determine our rank in this situation to balance or counterbalance the good news from The Guardian re: assets, spending capacity, IRA shares, etc. In as mch as we want to boost the province's development, we need to make sure where we are in the other side of the fence as well ie. debts and liabilities. I think it's fair to get this ranking as well and see on where we need to improve or needed to develop.

spacewagon1

October 1st, 2007, 03:05 AM

Coal is the answer (Part 10)
Edgar Mana-ay
BareFacts

COAL is radioactive? This is a new tall tale that the anti-coal activists are peddling to again deceive the public. For want of a sensible cause, they have to resort to such trickery and hoax of radioactivity in order to keep alive their senseless anti-coal stand.

Radioactivity is an inherent characteristic of some elements that causes them to emit particles (mostly harmful if beyond allowable level such as alpha and beta radiation) from their nuclei to decay into other elements. Uranium U238, for example, decays to lead Pb 206, with a half-life of 4,507 million years. When man concentrates uranium and shortens the decay period to a split second, then we have an atomic or nuclear bomb explosion.

Radioactivity is mostly associated with materials of volcanic origin which are mainly metallic base, derived from the flow of magma millions of years ago. By contrast, coal is of sedimentary origin formed from the remains of ancient plants and animals which were covered by soil from 10 to 100 million years ago.

In the anti-coal hoax of “radioactive coal”, they might be referring to the unstable and hoax of radioactive Carbon 14 which a coal deposit certainly does not contain but only the normal and stable carbon 12, the combustible component of coal.

To start with, the element carbon (the stable C12) is the basic building block of life because it readily combines with oxygen and hydrogen to form biogeological compounds like trees, plant, animals and man. The unstable, hence radioactive, Carbon 14 is derives from Nitrogen 14 in the upper part of the earth atmosphere by neutron bombardment of cosmic rays. All living organisms incorporate both C12 (the normal and stable carbon) and very, very minute C14 (the radioactive carbon) into their tissues through ingestion of carbon dioxide directly by plants or indirectly by man or animals through the food chain.

When these living things die and are buried deep by soil (as in the case of the sources of coal deposits), they stop ingesting C14 from the atmosphere and whatever C14 that was ingested will now start to decay back to nitrogen 14 at a half-life of 5770 years. Half-life is the length of time necessary for one half of the mass of the original isotope to decay or disintegrate. Example: half-Life of U235 is 713 million years. This means if 4 grams of the isotope was present originally, 2 grams would be left after 713 million years, one gram after 1426 million years, 0.5 grams after 2139 million years, etc.

The length of time that an organism is dead will be reflected in the amount of C14 in its tissues. Since the half-life of C14 is known and since it can be detected in very small amount by laboratory techniques, then it can be used to date sediments not older than 40,000 years.

Coal which was formed 10 to 100 million years ago has no more radioactive C14 left and so carbon dating is not applicable to determine its age. Coal, therefore, does not contain even traces of radioactive carbon 14. For the radioactive coal advocates, it is better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak out and remove all doubts!

All of us are exposed to natural low-level background radiation at an average of a harmless level of 1.5 mSv (micro sievert) per person per year. Radiation intensity depends primarily on the elevation and the geology of our locality. Major sources of background radiation includes Potassium 40 and Carbon 14 which are present in our bodies and probable deliver between 0.2 and 0.25 mSv per person per year. Cosmic rays deliver between 0.35 and about 1.5 mSv per person per year depending on the elevation of the locality and soil delivers on the average about 0.35 mSv.

Anthropogenic (human-created) sources of low-level radiation include medical x-rays (0.7-0.8) mSv per year, flying at high altitude (the airplane body will not shield you from radiation) or working in a nuclear plant. The maximum permissible annual dose for the general public in the U.S. is 5 mSv or about three times the average annual background radiation dose an American receives.

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

^^ ^^ any idea where's the first 9 parts of this article? This is a very good information indeed.

chymera00

October 1st, 2007, 03:13 AM

spacewagon1

October 1st, 2007, 03:15 AM

HABOL ILONGGO

http://thedailyguardian.com/images/stories/tourism1001a.JPG
Designer Jaki Peñalosa flanked by Ria Bolivar and Hon. Valdez of Btac. Viejo

http://thedailyguardian.com/images/stories/tourism1001e.JPG
Philippine top fashion mannequin Ria Bolivar

By Bombette G. Marin

HABLON fashion invaded the fountain area of Robinsons Place Iloilo with its much-buzzed-about Habol Ilonggo fashion show for the Tumandok 2007.

Timeless fashion of seasoned Ilongga designer Jaki Peñalosa showcased her latest hablon creations that served as the highlight of the five-day tourism trade fair and exhibit of the Provincial Tourism Office.

The must-have fabric from Iloilo is reinvented with a feminine feel. Penalosa’s fashionable pieces were about statements on the typical Ilongga—refined with a touch of urban cool character.

Hablon is beautiful in every incarnation. The mostly earth-toned designs featured a calming vibe and lots of attitude. The opening segment captured a street spin with hablon tops over skinny jeans to go for that fearless fashion with an ultra glam casual ensemble.

http://thedailyguardian.com/images/stories/tourism1001b.JPG http://thedailyguardian.com/images/stories/to
Ria on street-smart casual

http://thedailyguardian.com/images/stories/tourism1001d.JPG
St. Therese-MTC Colleges models the classic barong

The second segment featured a roomier, fuller silhouette that was especially the strong point for the softly beaded tops or subtle bits of glitz on short, rounder cocoon and bubble-cut cocktail pieces, bursting with sophistication.

Dramatic, intriguing and glamorous evening pieces with special details like whimsical patterns on hand-woven shawls and the traditional barong that gave the last segment a romantic personality.

http://thedailyguardian.com/images/stories/tourism1001f.JPG
A CPU student modelling a cocktail piece

http://thedailyguardian.com/images/stories/tourism1001g.JPG
A CPU student models Peñalosa's cocktail

http://thedailyguardian.com/images/stories/tourism1001h.JPG
A CPU student on cocktail

http://thedailyguardian.com/images/stories/tourism1001i.JPG
A WVCST student in cocktail

Among those who participated in the fashion show were the tourism students from Central Philippine University, University of San Agustin, St. Therese-MTC Colleges, and WVCST who walked the runway in various fashion styles. The country’s number one fashion mannequin Ria Bolivar was guest model during the show.

Let the glamorous fabric be the star of your all-weather wardrobe. Habol Ilonggo was brought to you by the Provincial Government of Iloilo through the Provincial Tourism Office, ITOA, Picture City and Robinsons Place Iloilo.

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

chymera00

October 1st, 2007, 03:16 AM

I agree that these are good indicators already. P855.20 million is just IRA and it doesn't include the locally generated income of the Province, which means that the Total income for 2006 should be more than the reported expenditure of P936.13 million. I'll try to verify, the dailies have a track record of showing inaccurate data sometimes, hehe.
Found this article online in www.iloilo.gov.ph:

Written by Jigger Labergue (PPDO Information Officer)
Monday, 17 September 2007
PPDO publishes 2007 Iloilo Provincial Profile

Iloilo City -- The Provincial Planning & Development Office (PPDO) of the Province of Iloilo, based on its task to initiate development undertakings in the province, has published the 2007 Provincial Profile.

This annual publication contains socio-economic data, gathered and compiled from different government agencies and offices, such as income and expenditures, power and water facilities, population, list of businesses and industries, tourist destinations and other indicators used in formulating development plans and investment schemes.

PPDO head Mario N. Nillos said the publication is considered as a guide to policy makers, students, entrepreneurs, researchers and potential local and foreign investors in the conduct of their respective progressive activities, he added that the publication of the profile is primarily aimed at making the province prominent in the investment market so as to boost its economy.

Copies of the profile are distributed to different offices of the Provincial Government and the same may also be made available to the private sector through a written request addressed to the Office of the Governor or the PPDO.

Meanwhile, Nillos said features of the profile can also accessed by the public through the internet at the Ilolo province's official website, www.iloilo.gov.ph.
Last Updated ( Monday, 17 September 2007 )

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

I did a search on iloilo.gov.ph and could find the 2007 provincial profile. The only available file is the 2006 profile, which has data dated 2005 pa.

spacewagon1

October 1st, 2007, 03:16 AM

spacewagon1

October 1st, 2007, 03:21 AM

^^ ^^ the Province of Iloilo website is always eons late when it comes to updates. :bash:

spacewagon1

October 1st, 2007, 03:21 AM

Iloilo swimmers off to World Special Olympics
By Alex P. Vidal

THE four swimmers from Iloilo who will compete in the 12th world Special Olympic Summer Games in Shanghai, China on Oct. 2-11 completed their three-month training at the Iloilo Sports Complex yesterday (Sept. 27) and joined with the rest of the Philippine team that departed to China at 8:05pm Sept. 28, coach Edvin Cabrera said.

“We are going to the World Olympics, please pray for us,” said Cabrera, a teacher at the SPED-Integrated School for Exceptional Children here.
Cabrera said she and her fellow coaches from this city – Emelita T. Gepigon (gymnastics), Mary La Verne L. Iquiña (aquatics), Mary Gen D. Mahinay (table tennis), Gilbert D. Cang (table tennis) – will join the country’s largest ever delegation in the Games to be participated by 7,000 athletes from 165 countries with a theme: “Let me win but if I can not win, let me be brave in the attempt.”

Head of delegation is Alexander P. Babst, national executive director of the Special Olympics Philippines and a father of a special child.

Tanya B. Denamarca, 23, silver medalist (50-meter butterfly) in the 1999 World Summer Games in North Carolina, will compete in the 4X50-m freestyle relay, 50-m butterfly and 50-m breaststroke in Shanghai.

The four swimmers who will participate in the aquatics event are: Carmelle Rose Villaruel, 17, gold medalist (50-m freestyle and 50-m breaststroke) in the 2006 National Special Olympics, will participate in the 4x50-m frees style relay; 50-m butterfly; and 50-m breaststroke.

Nelson N. Magahum, gold medalist (50-m breaststroke and 50-freestlye) in the 4th Singapore National Special Olympics, will compete in the same events.

Julius Granada, 20, gold medalist (50-m backstroke) and silver medalist (50-m relay) in the 2006 National Special Olympics, will try his luck in the same events.

Louie John Decolongon, 19, bowling silver medalist in the 2006 National Special Olympics, will take part in the combination all lifts; bench press; dead lift; and squat lift.

Christine Joy R. Galura, 15, also bowling gold medalist in the 2006 National Special Olympics, will be the country’s sole entry in the gymnastics.

Nemia Yao, 24, table tennis silver medalist in the 1997 4th Singapore National Special Olympics, will compete in the singles event and mixed doubles together with Pama, 32, who was gold medalist in Singapore and North Carolina Games.

source: [url=http://www.theguardianiloilo.ph/] The Guardian ILOILO{/url]

^^ ^^ goodluck to all of you, guys !

chymera00

October 1st, 2007, 03:14 PM

^^ ^^ the Province of Iloilo website is always eons late when it comes to updates. :bash:
I went to the Provincial Library this morning, they weren't even sent a coy of it.

chymera00

October 1st, 2007, 03:57 PM

DBP offers ‘better’ proposal

By Niña Jane A. Souribio

The Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) presented once more a loan proposal to Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas giving “unparalleled and the best in the market” offer in connection to the proposed construction of new city hall.
In a letter dated September 24, Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP), RMC-Panay Senior Assistant Vice President Crisanta Ibero mentioned that their higher management “favorably endorsed for board approval, a term loan of P500 million for the City Government of Iloilo” with better and enhanced terms and conditions.
The DBP also furnished copies of the letter to Vice Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog and all city councilors.
The City Legal Office sees no problem with the letter of DBP. Atty. Giovanni Miraflores said the city government can retract from its deal from LBP. However, it spells “dangerous repercussions.”
“Basi sa dason kun may projects ang city mabudlayan na kahulam sa Landbank. Nagpirma tapos bawion naman. Anyway, the letter of DBP will not be discarded. It can be a reference for future projects,” said Miraflores.
Treñas signed the contract with the Land Bank on its P350-million loan for the construction of the state-of the-art new city hall building last September 10.
“Probably, the DBP doesn’t know about it yet,” Miraflores quipped.
Last week, meanwhile, Mabilog wrote letters to Senators Aquilino Pimentel and Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino and Negros Oriental second district Representative George Arnaiz asking for their opinion on the move of Treñas to enter into a contract with the winning firm to demolish the old city hall without first asking any authority from the City Council.
Mabilog has returned from his Manila trip last week where he also sought opinion from the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) central office.
The V.E. Solis was awarded by the City and Awards Committee with the demolition for bidding P1.2 million. It won over RB Dolar that bid P1.4 million.

http://dailyinformer.info/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1523&Itemid=137

iloilocitykid

October 1st, 2007, 04:17 PM

^^ That P 500- million is bigger but I suggest we do not disrespect the contract. Who knows, maybe Land Bank might finance the city government more because of their integrity.

eonynx

October 1st, 2007, 04:42 PM

^^ well, it looks like it's a done deal already between Land Bank and the city govt., because Mayor Trenas already "signed" the contract. i find it hard to believe that DBP couldn't have known of that P350 M loan offer of Land Bank to the Iloilo City government.

iloilocitykid

October 1st, 2007, 05:18 PM

^^ Maybe they could've built around 15 storeys with that 500 million. Well, who knows. The construction hasn't started so let's hope for the best.

birdfluuu

October 1st, 2007, 06:18 PM

^^ Maybe they could've built around 15 storeys with that 500 million. Well, who knows. The construction hasn't started so let's hope for the best.

The old Iloilo City Hall is one of the historical buildings in the city.Many of Iloilos other old historic buildings are being demolished or sold to make way for new property.Tani gin renovate nalang ang inyo nga old City Hall...5-10 million tahum na ina maka save pa ang inyo nga siudad:ohno: :ohno: i hope the city will wake to raise awareness about the effects the loss of historic buildings have on the community.In my own opinion lang ha? daw indi pa gid man kinahanglan guro sa Iloilo ang bag o na City Hall:) maybe 3-5 years time pwedi na..opinion kolang na ha? kay kanugon sang inyo old city hall:)

COLLIN JASPER

October 1st, 2007, 06:45 PM

WawaY[625]

October 2nd, 2007, 12:20 AM

ayan! katatapos lang namin mag usap ng barkada ko :D

ill be in bacolod sa masskara (19 ata till dunno) tapos after dun, iloilo na ako (overnight lang siguro)

so how much po ba ang

1. weesam from BCD to Iloilo
2. average price ng pension house sa iloilo?

and

malayo ba ang weesam terminal sa city? (bai berns, is it like from Sasa wharf to downtown?) wala kasi google earth ang iloilo :(

and how much from downtown iloilo to NIA? kasi baka malasing ako the night before tapos mag kara kara ako para sa flight ko :lol:

oh and how much ang terminal fee? kaka increase lang kasi to P200 dito sa amin :( pati ba dyan? damn travel on a budget ako :(

spacewagon1

October 2nd, 2007, 12:32 AM

DBP offers ‘better’ proposal
By Niña Jane A. Souribio

The Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) presented once more a loan proposal to Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas giving “unparalleled and the best in the market” offer in connection to the proposed construction of new city hall.
In a letter dated September 24, Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP), RMC-Panay Senior Assistant Vice President Crisanta Ibero mentioned that their higher management “favorably endorsed for board approval, a term loan of P500 million for the City Government of Iloilo” with better and enhanced terms and conditions.
.....

http://dailyinformer.info/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1523&Itemid=137
DBP has one of the best proposal if not the best proposal of Iloilo City Hall at present. But the question is WHY NOW? Why not before when the city is looking for funds to build the new city hall? It's funny to note that after all these months, DBP decided to offer the city the best alternative. I say, let's keep the option open. However, I will not stand allowing this proposal from DBP to halt the construction the new city hall even for a day. We're running out of time. And we have so many projects that the city needed to tackle othern than the new city hall. The city government needs to overlook a lot of infra projects and making sure that these projects are well-implemented in te city's vicinity. Anyhow, nice article but looks a little bit late for the city government to change their funding agency.

spacewagon1

October 2nd, 2007, 12:48 AM

Daw inde na gid siguro kaya pa nga renovate kay ka gabuk na gd. kinahanglan mapag-on ang pundasyon sng building. Kon Historic building ang paga hambalan, pwede man nga i convert nila into museum. Mas nami tani kon didto na lng sila nag patindog sang bag-o nga city hall sa IRC tupad sang Provincial capitol. I think its time na gid nga magpatindog sang hi tech nga city hall ang iloilo.
The city hall needs not only renovation but reconstruction and I think the city government is right to demolish the old city hall and make a new one. Although the old city hall is of great value when it comes to history and culture, the demand to make a new one is inevitable. I really like your suggestion of converting the former into the museum and make a new city hall in Molo district however, majority decided to leave the city hall on its present site amidst limited land area. I hope one day, a new city government center will move outside the city proper area. They can still do it. Later, they can decide to separate the executive and legislative body or having all departments separated from the city hall. Not now, later when the need arises again. At present, I support the city hall's construction and I wish they'll start the construction soon.

Here's few questions?
Do you think it would be a good idea to annex the provincial capitol in Passi City to speed up the development the province's component city? Sometimes they overlook Passi and its development is slow since it lacks support from their congressional leader. Passi City, by now, should be fully-developed with lots of infras and establishments sprouting in every corner. But it seems that they are leaving Passi in a status quo state. Plus the exchange of transaction between Iloilo City and Passi City should be encouraged. They need to utilise Passi City's strategic location to further develop Iloilo Province.

What's the role of Pototan in the province's economy? We now Pototan is on the verge of cityhood as well. And by this we need to examine its potential and lead it rightly to become the next component city of Iloilo. How far the municipal government of Pototan is working right now to make its bid to become the province's third city? And have they explored a lot of options available to speed up the process?

Next, the role of MIG towns (Oton, Pavia, San Miguel, Leganes and Sta Barbara) in promoting Iloilo? Right now, we see developments coming to all these towns. In due time, these towns will be converted into a city and will eventually create a bugeoning metropolitan atmosphere in Iloilo. The question is, how do (towns) they fare for cityhood? Is the council pushing one of its component members to become a city or surrogate city after Iloilo City? It seems to me that Pavia and Sta Barbara is vying to become one with Sta Barbara working really hard to explore its resources (land, etc) to increase their economic income, activities and potential investments. How about the other towns? What's their development plan if there's any ongoing at present?

spacewagon1

October 2nd, 2007, 12:51 AM

MIDC jeepneys banned from city
TRAFFIC EXPERIMENT: The Iloilo City government hopes to loosen the worsening vehicular traffic in the metropolis by banning the so-called MIDC vehicles from plying major streets. (FAA)
By Jeehan V. Fernandez

THE Iloilo City Hall has banned the entry of public utility jeepneys (PUJs) and vehicles (PUVs) from the towns of Oton, Sta. Barbara, Leganes and San Miguel and the province of Antique into downtown area.

Mayor Jerry Treñas issued Executive Order No. 46 dated Sept. 26 ordering the conduct of a one-month traffic experimentation on the routes of Metro Iloilo Development Council (MIDC) municipalities and Antique.

MIDC and Antique-bound PUJs and PUVs will be barred from entering the major city streets from Oct. 1-31.
This, after the Sangguniang Panlungsod passed Sept. 19 Regulation Ordinance No. 2007-174 entitled “An Ordinance granting the City Mayor the authority to conduct one month traffic experimentation on the route of operations of PUJs and PUVs that are legitimate holders of carpasses, within the territorial jurisdiction of the city.”

“Hopefully, it will solve the congested areas in the city,” said Treñas.

Treñas said the Traffic Management and Engineering Unit (TMEU) has conducted a feasibility study on the proposed modification of traffic re-routing plan for Oton, Sta. Barbara, San Miguel, Leganes PUJs, and southern lines and Antique-bound PUVs.

“There is a need for an executive order for the immediate implementation of the traffic experimentation by defining the re-routing plan of the said PUJs and PUVs,” Treñas stressed.

The TMEU implements the traffic experimentation by re-routing the operations of PUJs and PUVs as follows:

· All Oton PUJs, both Anhawan and Derecho routes that are legitimate holders of carpasses coming form Molo Plaza in going to City Proper should pass Lopez Jaena, turn left at Tanza, turn right Infante, turn right Delgado, turn left Ybiernas, turn right Gen. Luna and turn right Jalandoni and in going back should turn right Delgado towards Timawa Avenue, turn right ICAG, turn right MH del Pilar and turn left San Marcus St. towards Plaza Molo and back to their places of origin.

· Sta. Barbara and Leganes “Hi-way” PUJs that are legitimate holders of carpasses, coming from Diversion Road in going to City Proper should pass Infante Avenue, turn left Tanza towards Ledesma and turn left Fuentes St. and in going back should turn left Delgado, turn right Infante Avenue towards Diversion Road and back to their place of origin.

· San Miguel PUJs that are legitimate holders of carpasses coming from Diversion Road in going to City proper should pass Infante Avenue, turn left Tanza towards Ledesma, turn right Mabini and turn right J. de Leon (Terminal Market) and in going back should turn right Fuentes St., turn left Ledesma, turn right Infante Avenue towards Diversion Road and back to their place of origin.

· All Antique-bound PUVs that are legitimate holders of carpasses coming from Avanceña Molo in going to their terminal at San Marcus St. in Molo should pass Lopez Jaena (Plaza Molo), turn left MH del Pilar, turn left San Marcus St. towards their terminal and in going back should pass San Marcus St. and proceed to Avanceña toward their place of origin.

The traffic experimentation runs for a month, unless the authority of the City Mayor is extended by the SP.

The mayor said all existing ordinances and executive orders relative to the route of operations of MIDC PUJs and Antique-bound PUVs within the territorial jurisdiction of the city are temporarily suspended in the duration of the traffic experimentation.

“All other traffic rules and regulations such as trip cutting, obstruction, no parking, no loading/unloading in designated areas, overloading are still in effect and should be strictly implemented and enforced by the TMEU,” Treñas pointed out.

Treñas said the TMEU through the Technical Working Group created by virtue of Executive Order No. 30, Series of 2007, is hereby required to submit a written report and recommendation to the SP and mayor at the end of the experimentation.

He added that as far as practicable, the TMEU, in coordination with the Office of the City Mayor, should disseminate proper information regarding the traffic experimentation to the riding public and operators and drivers of PUJs and PUVs concerned.

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

spacewagon1

October 2nd, 2007, 12:59 AM

A million trees from TSKI: Caring for God's resources
By Florence F. Hibionada

Batad, Iloilo -- Taytay sa Kauswagan Incorporated (TSKI), the country's premier partner in micro-financing marked its 21st anniversary in a celebration that was a first for its 250,000 clients.

From livelihood assistance to skills training and strengthened efforts bridging the gap between poverty and progress, TSKI celebrated by conducting a nationwide tree-planting activity.

Simultaneously done Saturday all over the Philippines in TSKI-communities, a team of 120 staff members from the head office led the eight Iloilo branches. Beneficiary of the TSKI's activity was the Municipality of Batad, a Fifth-Class municipality some 120 kilometers north of Iloilo City.

Site chosen was the hinterland of Barangay Alapascu here where TSKI group met with the counterpart-team of Mayor Elvira Alarcon. Barangay Alapascu is home to the Alapascu dam that serves irrigation needs of the town and portion of neighboring towns of Balasan and Estancia.

"A million trees: Caring for God's Resources," went the TSKI battlecry that saw a total of 1,500 seedlings of various fruit trees planted.

Dr. Angel De Leon, TSKI Executive Director in an interview told reporters present that the Batad project will be duly adopted and maintained. As such, a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) is underway with the TSKI bent on using the Batad experience as "show window."

"We operate in rural areas so it is just but right that we have to take care of our land," De Leon said. "And we will do this on an annual basis, our impact project. This is a kick-off event and every year now, we hope that TSKI will plant a million trees."

Sentiments warmly welcomed by Batad Municipal Administrator Reynold Sandoy.

"We are very lucky to be chosen by the TSKI. And it is very timely because environmental projects are really part of the priorities of Mayor Alarcon's administration," Sandoy began. "And from our end we will also work harder after seeing what the TSKI has started. If they are concerned for Batad, how much more us here? So this event is very significant for us."

Sandoy was joined by Councilors Rodolfo Ballester and Rico Machan, chairman of Batad's Committee on Environment alongside the local government team formed by Mayor Alarcon.

De Leon came with other top TSKI officials including Angel Solarte, K Bank President Ramon Buenaflor and latest addition to the TSKI Board, former Science and Technology Director Zinnia Teruel.

"This is all about caring for the environment," Teruel for her part shared. "And with one million trees as a start, the TSKI is bringing much-needed change particularly in carbon credits realized because of this activity."

Over-all supervision of the tree-planting activity was under Gus Bacabac, TSKI head of the Farmer Integrated Development Assistance Program (FIDA).

source: The News Today (http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/10/01/a.million.trees.from.tski.caring.for.gods.resources.html)

spacewagon1

October 2nd, 2007, 01:08 AM

Plagata wants Taiwan trip for city councilors official
By Wenceslao E. Mateo Jr.

COUNCILOR Erwin Plagata agrees that seeing the model of the coal-fired plant being proposed here in Iloilo City by Global Business Power Corporation at its site in Taiwan would help the City Council decide on whether or not to recommend its putting up here.

“It’s one thing just being told about it, and another, seeing it and finding out its effects on the residents in the surrounding communities,” he said.

He stressed, however, that he disapproves of making that Taiwan trip at the expense of Global and its partner in Taiwan, the Formosa Heavy Industries.
“I don’t want to feel indebted to Global and FHI when I make the recommendations,” said the chair of the Committee on Transportation, Energy & Public Utilities.

He thus suggested that the trip be made official with the city government spending for it.

“With the city government spending for the trip, we will feel completely free to evaluate the model of the project in the name of public interest,” he also explained.

Four other councilors appear to share this opinion of Plagata, as they also signified not to make the Taiwan trip at the expense of Global and FHI.
These four, according to a tv report, are Councilors Eldrid Antiquiera, Antonio Pesina, Stevie Rey Abitang (SK federation president), Jeffrey Ganzon and Perla Zulueta.

Plagata has also observed that it will still be the experts that can finally say whether this type of coal-fired plant will be as safe here as in Taiwan to human health and the environment, considering local environmental factors.
Because of this, he suggested that some people from the Department of Science & Technology (DOST) and the Dept. of Environment & Natural Resources (DENR) join the Taiwan visit, should there be this official trip to see the model plant in that island state.

“These experts from DOST and DENR would be looking into the scientific and technical aspects of the model, while we go about the rest of the evaluation, particularly on the more ocular aspects, including a look into its effects to the surrounding communities.”

The councilor from Jaro likewise informed during this interview last Friday that Mayor Jerry P. Treñas had already left that day for Metro Manila en route to Taiwan, probably to visit the model at its site, as part of his itinerary.
Meantime, Global has reportedly reset the visit to Taiwan on the first or second week of October for members of the City Council who would like to make that visit and see the model coal-fired plant.

Vice Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog has, thus, again invited the rest of the members of the City Council to join him on the trip. He even said that should there be none who would join him, he is willing to still make that trip, even if he has to spend for it on his own.

source: The ILOILO Daily Informer (http://dailyinformer.info/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1521&Itemid=137)

spacewagon1

October 2nd, 2007, 01:55 AM

IPG CSC Awardee
Written by Ian C. Espada (PIO/Admin)
Thursday, 27 September 2007
CSC to award Iloilo Provincial Government for its “Very Good” rating in customer service

The Civil Service Commission (CSC) will present an award to the Iloilo Provincial Government (IPG) when it garnered a “VERY GOOD” rating in terms of customer care and in meeting the expectations of the transacting public for prompt, courteous, responsive, facilitative and pleasant service.

The award was received by Gov. Niel D. Tupas, Sr. from CSC Chair Karina-Constantino David on September 14, 2007 in a forum on the Challenges in Public Governance at Kalantiao Hall, Sarabia Manor Hotel.

This activity is part of the celebration of the 107th anniversary of the Philippine Civil Service with this year’s theme “Itaguyod ang Kasarinlan ng Career Service.”

It can be recalled that from April 5, 2007-August 17, 2007, the Civil Service Regional Office No. 6 implemented its audit of 92 frontline services of 26 selected government agencies particularly the National Government Agencies in Region 6. Efficiency of agencies’ frontline services were checked and tested out by PASADA volunteers in terms of service provider; structure, systems and procedure; and the physical working condition.

The Public Service Delivery Audit/Assistance (PASADA) is CSC’s proactive mechanism installed to address the problems wrought by inefficiency at the government’s line of contact with the citizenry.

It provides a mechanism through which the performance of government frontline services can be systematically checked and evaluated on a rather simple strategy: a pool of volunteers or public service monitors will check and test out government frontline services.

The idea is for them to simulate and empathize with the experiences of the public whether good or bad, as they transact business with the government.

source: PROVINCE of ILOILO Website (http://www.iloilo.gov.ph/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=413&Itemid=1)

habagatcentral1

October 2nd, 2007, 05:19 AM

The old Iloilo City Hall is one of the historical buildings in the city.Many of Iloilos other old historic buildings are being demolished or sold to make way for new property.Tani gin renovate nalang ang inyo nga old City Hall...5-10 million tahum na ina maka save pa ang inyo nga siudad:ohno: :ohno: i hope the city will wake to raise awareness about the effects the loss of historic buildings have on the community.In my own opinion lang ha? daw indi pa gid man kinahanglan guro sa Iloilo ang bag o na City Hall:) maybe 3-5 years time pwedi na..opinion kolang na ha? kay kanugon sang inyo old city hall:)

The City Hall has been condemned by the City Engineering's Office because it can no longer sustain adaptive reuse.

The City Government of Iloilo has already passed a resolution halting the demolition of old structures in the Calle Real area pwera na lang if the building's foundation integrity is too dangerous to be inhabited. Jaro on the other hand is not onto developing new buildings within its vicinty and instead maintain the heritage structures.

There has been an increasing awareness of the heritage preservation in Iloilo since early 2000. Hopefuly padayon na ni.

Daw inde na gid siguro kaya pa nga renovate kay ka gabuk na gd. kinahanglan mapag-on ang pundasyon sng building. Kon Historic building ang paga hambalan, pwede man nga i convert nila into museum. Mas nami tani kon didto na lng sila nag patindog sang bag-o nga city hall sa IRC tupad sang Provincial capitol. I think its time na gid nga magpatindog sang hi tech nga city hall ang iloilo.

;15664856']ayan! katatapos lang namin mag usap ng barkada ko :D

ill be in bacolod sa masskara (19 ata till dunno) tapos after dun, iloilo na ako (overnight lang siguro)

so how much po ba ang

1. weesam from BCD to Iloilo
2. average price ng pension house sa iloilo?

and

malayo ba ang weesam terminal sa city? (bai berns, is it like from Sasa wharf to downtown?) wala kasi google earth ang iloilo :(

and how much from downtown iloilo to NIA? kasi baka malasing ako the night before tapos mag kara kara ako para sa flight ko :lol:

oh and how much ang terminal fee? kaka increase lang kasi to P200 dito sa amin :( pati ba dyan? damn travel on a budget ako :(

Kinsay ingon nga mo-Pension House ka Bai? Hapit sa among panimalay oi. Didto na lang ka sleep, free accommodation pa. hehe!!! Kay halfway between the city and the airport naman ang house nako. :lol: Kaya ok ra hubog og ma-oy, wahahahaha!!!

Weesam or OceanJet One way is P160-P210 range.

And the Negros-Bacolod fastcraft terminal is right at the heart of the city. As in naa sa Iloilo River Wharf gyud. Accessible to any mode of transportation. :D

Terminal Fee sa NIA is still P30 Bai! :D

The question, nus-a ka didto? Kay morag dungan mo ni Bai Markiiboi ug Kentaro kay naa sila plano padung Iloilo by that weekend. Davao meets Cebu in Iloilo. Wahahahahaha!!!! :banana:

habagatcentral1

October 2nd, 2007, 06:06 AM

Megaworld seals buy of old Iloilo airport for P1.2B
Property developer Megaworld Corp. has purchased the 54.5-hectare old airport in Mandurriao, Iloilo from the government for P1.2 billion.

In a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange dated Oct. 1. Megaworld said it has signed a sale and purchase agreement with the government for the property, which it pans to transform into a business district.

“Megaworld envisions its project to become a magnet for major business process outsourcing companies interested to set up shop in the Visayas region," the company said.

Megaworld said it has already applied with the Philippine Economic Zone Authority for a special economic zone license for the area.

Aside from building a BPO complex, Megaworld said it also plans to construct educational facilities in the area geared at equipping prospective employees of call centers and other BPO firms. - GMANews.TV

Source: http://www.gmanews.tv/story/62768/Megaworld-seals-buy-of-old-Iloilo-airport-for-P12B

--------------------------------------
^^ Selyado na! Megaworld will be the developer of the Mandurriao Airport property. The only thing that we have to wait is their plan and the mobilization of their construction. :banana:

WawaY[625]

October 2nd, 2007, 09:39 AM

Kinsay ingon nga mo-Pension House ka Bai? Hapit sa among panimalay oi. Didto na lang ka sleep, free accommodation pa. hehe!!! Kay halfway between the city and the airport naman ang house nako. :lol: Kaya ok ra hubog og ma-oy, wahahahaha!!!
:

weeeeee! :D

The question, nus-a ka didto? Kay morag dungan mo ni Bai Markiiboi ug Kentaro kay naa sila plano padung Iloilo by that weekend. Davao meets Cebu in Iloilo. Wahahahahaha!!!! :banana:

mao na ang dakong pangutana kay depende na sa makuha nga ticket sa akong barkada :D

iloilocitykid

October 2nd, 2007, 03:14 PM

spacewagon1

October 2nd, 2007, 07:12 PM

Treñas: Coal power plant
in populated area okay
By DAVID ISRAEL SINAY

ILOILO City – Mayor Jerry Treñas, fresh from his weekend trip to Taiwan, expressed confidence that a coal-fired power plant can do no harm even if it is situated in a thickly populated area.

Treñas flew to Taiwan to check the coal-fired power plants there. His trip was shouldered by the corporation that wanted to put up a coal-fired power plant in this city.

The mayor himself admitted that Global Business Power Corporation (GPBC) and its technical partner Formosa Heavy Industries Corporation (FHIC) shouldered his trip.
“(It was) very educational,” Treñas said, adding that his fears vis-à-vis the coal-fired power plant were clarified.

Treñas said he visited three coal-fired power plants in Taiwan. The trip, he added, increased his level of confidence in the proposed coal-fired plant for Iloilo City.

“There was no reported increase in cases of asthma and cancer” in areas adjacent to the plant, he revealed.

In fact, Treñas said, a mall was just a few hundred meters away from one of the coal plants he checked.

GBPC targets to put up a 100-megawatt (MW) coal-fired power plant in the City of Iloilo to address the power demands of the metropolis with the upsurge of economic and infrastructure development here.

GBPC is the mother company of Panay Power Corporation (PPC), an independent power producer here.

FHIC will be the technical partner of GBPC for the Panay expansion of its coal power generation technology.

GBPC plans to put up the power generation technology at the PPC compound in Brgy. Ingore, La Paz district.

Some city councilors are also flying to Taiwan to check the coal-fired power plants there on October 12 to 14.

Treñas had said in earlier interviews that the city needs a stable supply of electricity because the lack of it turns off prospective investors.

Local environmentalists have warned of dire ecological effects of a coal-fired power plant in the metropolis. They also said the population’s health would be at risk.

Also, during his visit here over the weekend, Senate President Manuel Villar expressed concern over the environmental impact that coal-fired power plants may infuse to the community

“I do not have any opposition (to the proposed coal plant but) there are environmental concerns. In the long run, huwag na iyang coal kasi pini-phase out na iyan eh,” Villar told reporters.

Villar added, “is there any assurance that they could lower the cost of power?”
The establishment of a coal power generation technology would depend on the expertise used…“if they can address the environmental concerns…I guess that is good news,” Villar added.

source: Panay News (http://www.panaynewsphilippines.com/iloilo1.htm)

spacewagon1

October 2nd, 2007, 07:15 PM

P13 to P41 daily wage hike for
WV workers to take effect Oct. 5

ILOILO City – Starting October 5, private sector employees within the minimum wage bracket in Western Visayas will receive increases ranging from P13 to P41 in their daily wage, according to the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) here.

The new wage hike is contained in the newly approved Wage Order No. 15.
RTWPB Secretary, Atty. Calixto Valaquio said they decided to simplify the classification of workers into agriculture and non-agriculture.

Under Wage Order No. 14, the minimum wage for the non-agriculture sector with less than 10 employees was P180/day while under the agriculture sector or those with big capitalization, the lowest was P194/day.

Under Wage Order No. 15, the P180 will receive an increase of P13 a day and P41 a day for those receiving P194. The P41 daily addition, however, will be implemented on a staggered basis whereas the P13 will take effect this Friday.

Valaquio said the P41 is expected to be fully implemented on September 16, 2008.
To recall, the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) and the Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU) through their local chapters in Negros Occidental filed two separate petitions in July.

The TUCP petitioned for a daily P75.00 across the board wage increase while the KMU opted for a P125 per day across the board wage hike.

source: Panay News (http://www.panaynewsphilippines.com/guimaras4.htm)

^^ ^^ this is good news indeed. Where most of the provinces and regions have less than 10 peso increase, WV still managed to increase the salary of its labourers from 13 to 41. Well done !

pangyao™

October 2nd, 2007, 08:54 PM

Medicus Health Partners

Iloilo City
Medicus Main at Lolita Bldg., Gen. Luna St.
Medicus at Health Partners, Ground Floor of AJL
Bldg., Gen. Luna Cor. Ibarra Sts
Medicus Jaro at Lopez Jaena St.
Medicus La Paz at R&J Bldg., Huervana St.
Medicus Molo at Locsin St.
Medicus @ Health Partners Condo-Clinics at
Diversion Road, Brgy. San Rafael, Mandurriao

Outside Iloilo
Medicus Antique at T. A. Fornier St., Atabay, San Jose
Medicus Sara at Castor St., Sara
Medicus Roxas at Rizal St.
Medicus Estancia is located at Cudilla St.

15 years in the making
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1371/1460408707_b3ae285134_o.png
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1062/1285033891_6e82819ae1_b.jpg
main HQ of Medicus. Another building similar to this will soon rise and another Hospital will be built just beside the river. :rock:

This must be the 2nd tallest building in Iloilo City, for now...:lol:

Queenbank Corporate Headquarters
Also houses Bombo Radyo and probably other R. Florete's businesses

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1319/1460393873_8e2b99a023_o.jpg

can you specify the number of floors for these buildings?
i've been in iloilo last 2005 and i didn't see taller buildings, only the provincial capitol i considered to be the tallest and magnificent.
pls post more pics of iloilo, im very excited to see it.. bira iloilo!!

spacewagon1

October 2nd, 2007, 09:09 PM

Gokongwei now owns Passi Sugar Central?
By Wenceslao E. Mateo Jr.

UNCONFIRMED information from sources inside Passi Sugar Central Inc.(PSCI) reveals that the company with milling operations in San Enrique, Iloilo and at Man-it, Passi, Iloilo has already been bought by a group of companies owned by multibusiness taipan John Gokongwei for a sum of about P1 billion.

Gokongwei owns, among his several business concerns, the Robinsons malls, one of which is located at the City Proper, Iloilo City.

With this sale of the milling company, said to occur early last month, PSCI’s employees are now expecting to be separated and receive their separation pays from the old management to give way to the management options of the new owners.

Factory engineers and other skilled workers, are not, however, expected to be terminated immediately because they may not easily be changed for new workers of equal or better skills.

The employees’ union is reportedly set to meet Monday, today, to discuss their fate with new management, particularly on talks that some employees might be retained by PSCI’s new management.

There are fears that the Gokongwei management would resort to contractual employment, unlike under old management when work tenures were assured. Such concerns are expected to be discussed by the union in their meeting today to anticipate the possible retention of some employees by the new management.

source: The ILOILO Daily Informer (http://dailyinformer.info/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1526&Itemid=137)

spacewagon1

October 2nd, 2007, 09:22 PM

DPWH exec explains delayed completion of Infante flyover
By Maricar M. Calubiran

Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Regional Director Rolando Asis yesterday said that the curing period for the concrete portion of the Infante flyover's two approaches caused the delay in the project's completion.

He also clarified that the construction of the two approaches is part of the contract cost and not the responsibility of the city government.

Asis made the clarification amid reports that the city government is still looking for funds for the construction of the two approaches.

In earlier interviews, Mayor Jerry Treñas was quoted saying that the city is looking for funds for the construction of the flyover's two approaches, islands as well as lighting facilities.

The installation of the pre-fabricated flyover was completed middle of September but the it could not yet be opened for public use pending the completion of its two approaches.

The construction of the flyover, which has a total length of 305-linear meters, is aimed to decongest the traffic in the busy intersection connecting M.H. Del Pilar-Gen. Luna streets and Diversion Road-Infante Streets. The fly over can hold a cargo load of 20-30 tons. It has a lifetime of 50 years.

Asis attributed the delay in the curing period being observed by the contractor, Mabey & Johnson Ltd, a United Kingdom-based construction firm. The curing period for the cemented portion of the flyover is 21 days.

The construction of the two approaches is included in the P400 million project. The city government will not spend for the construction of the two approaches, said Asis. The contractor will take care for the construction of the two approaches, said Asis.

The vehicular flyover here topped the list of high impact projects of the DPWH. The project is being undertaken by the President's Bridge Program Office of the Department of Public Works and Highways Central Office.

Asis said, the regional office of the DPWH has no hand in the bidding as well as the implementation of the project since it is a national project.

Asis further said that the bad weather condition these past few days contributed to the delay in the flyover's completion.

Earlier, the construction of the flyover also suffered a setback after portions of the project site collapsed. The contractor had to redesign the base and construct two new bore piles to strengthen the structure's foundation.

Asis then projected that the flyover would be operational either last week of September or first week of October. President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo is expected to inaugurate the project as soon as it is completed. The work started last April 1, 2007.

source: The News Today (http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/10/02/dpwh.exec.explains.delayed.completion.of.infante.flyover.html)

spacewagon1

October 2nd, 2007, 09:26 PM

SM Food Court: They Got It All!
By Nonoi D. Ybiernas

http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/10/02/girlie.dominado.jpg
Girlie Dominado
http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/10/02/carol.sy.and.emily.lopez.jpg
Carol Sy and Emily Lopez

SM City Iloilo recently unveiled its latest project, the new Food Court. It's one of the many improvements (and more to follow) of the mall's facilities so that the shopping public can enjoy maximum comfort and convenience.

Located at the ground floor level, the new SM Food Court boasts of a wider dining area, making it a perfect place for family and friends get-togethers and after-shopping meals. The many food choices it offers is a delightful treat to all Ilonggos who simply love to eat.

The new SM Food Court houses delectable food stalls like Ted's Old-timer Lapaz Batchoy, Chicken & Ribs, Bacolod Lechon Haus, Sizzling Plate, Casa Ilongga, Jollibee, Kamay Kainan, Ocean City and Breakthrough. There is also the food counters like Yam-Yam Korean Takeout, Thirsty Fresh Juice and Shakes, Sabor Ilonggo Native Delicacies plus three food carts: Yukashii Japanese Food to Go, Pizza Hut and La Vev Shawarma.

Officially opening the new SM Food Court was Shoemart's very own Carol Sy, together with Governor Neil Tupas and Mayor Jerry Trenas. Top singer and stage actor Robert Sena provided the entertainment and also the WVSU's Himig sa Kaunlaran sa Visayas and Strumms to the delight of the many guests from the business, political and social sectors.

source: The News Today (http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/10/02/sm.food.court.they.got.it.all!.html)

spacewagon1

October 2nd, 2007, 09:32 PM

Robinsons Campus Fashionista
Grand Finals set on Oct. 5
http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/10/02/gian_rob.jpg
Gian
http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/10/02/kyle_rob.jpg
Kyle
http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/10/02/kayann_rob.jpg
Kay-ann
http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/10/02/keith_rob.jpg
keith
Robinsons Campus Fashionista Model Search 2007 is now on its 3rd year and is the only existing model search of its nature herewith. It has produced most of the recognizable model faces in the local ramp today and a number of them has transitioned to the runways of Manila and the international modeling catwalk. In fact, the Philippines Next Top model winner, Grendel Alvarado, was the first female model winner of Campus Fashionista. Rexie Ian Alla, male model runner-up 2005, is one of the hottest male models who lent his expertise as diverse as walking the ramps of Manila-based designers to doing acting in films and productions.

In 2005, the Campus Fashionista winners were Grendel Alvarado, female model winner; Luigi Deocades, male model winner; Wing Sze Tang, female model runner-up; and Rexie Ian Anna, male model runner-up. In 2006, the winners were Shin Salaya, female model winner; James Garcia, male model winner; Charlene Casten, female model runner-up; and Bricz Navarro, male model runner-up.

Robinsons Campus Fashionista Model Search Grand Finals is on Oct. 5, 2007, 4:30 pm at the Fountain Area of Robinsons Place Iloilo.

The sponsors are Robinsons Department Store, Face Value Facial Care and Spa Center, Converse, Bayo, Levi's, Adidas, Karat World, Paul Chiongson Photography, GMA TV 6-Iloilo, Smart, Circle J Traders and Engineering Services, Philam-Life and Picture City.

source: The News Today (http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/10/02/robinsons.campus.fashionista.html)

Ex!lE

October 3rd, 2007, 03:10 AM

Megaworld finalizes P1.2-B purchase of old Iloilo airport (http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Business&p=49&type=2&sec=27&aid=2007100271)
By Zinnia B. Dela Peña
Wednesday, October 3, 2007

Megaworld Corp. has signed a deal with the government for the purchase of the 54.5-hectare old airport in Mandurriao, Iloilo City for P1.2 billion.

In a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange, Megaworld said it will apply with the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) for a special economic zone license for the area which the company plans to transform into a new business district.

Megaworld envisions this project to become a magnet for major business process outsourcing (BPO) companies interested to set up shop in the Visayas region.

Aside from the office buildings, the project will host educational facilities geared to provide value-added training to equip prospective employees with the necessary skills suited to the requirements of the call centers and other BPO businesses.

Megaworld is the pioneer developer of urban information technology/BPO parks in the country starting with the PEZA-accredited Eastwood City Cyberpark in Libis.

Megaworld is targeting to build at least 500,000 square meters of office space in the next five years as it seeks to address the tight supply of premium space for the burgeoning BPO sector. The company hopes to complete about 200,000 to 250,000 square meters of office space—almost 50 percent of its target—in 2007 and 2008 alone.

The company currently has new high-tech office projects at Eastwood. The E-Commerce Plaza which shall make available about 20,000 square meters of office space by yearend, while the second phase of 1880 Eastwood Avenue which will offer some 35,000 square meters of leasable space and is slated for completion by the second quarter of 2008.

At present, Megaworld is developing several townships in other parts of Metro Manila: Newport City at Villamor Air Base in Pasay City, McKinley Hill at Fort Bonifacio in Taguig City and Cityplace in Manila’s Chinatown.

Megaworld posted a net income of P1.45 billion in the six months ending June this year or an increase of 67 percent from the previous level’s P867.55 million, mainly due to higher contributions from its core residential and BPO.

whyte

October 3rd, 2007, 05:33 AM

^^Alleluia!!! that building needs to go! :banana:
WB! Whyte!

ofourse it has to go it'll be an eyesore (as it is today) if the convention center plans push through.
if it pushes through then that stretch of bonifacio drive will boast of great structures :banana:

eonynx

October 3rd, 2007, 05:44 AM

^^ great structures to complement the ever hoped-for and long overdue beautification of the the iloilo river!

whyte

October 3rd, 2007, 05:56 AM

;15664856']ayan! katatapos lang namin mag usap ng barkada ko :D

ill be in bacolod sa masskara (19 ata till dunno) tapos after dun, iloilo na ako (overnight lang siguro)

so how much po ba ang

1. weesam from BCD to Iloilo
2. average price ng pension house sa iloilo?

and

malayo ba ang weesam terminal sa city? (bai berns, is it like from Sasa wharf to downtown?) wala kasi google earth ang iloilo :(

and how much from downtown iloilo to NIA? kasi baka malasing ako the night before tapos mag kara kara ako para sa flight ko :lol:

oh and how much ang terminal fee? kaka increase lang kasi to P200 dito sa amin :( pati ba dyan? damn travel on a budget ako :(

:wave:

you can also click my signature for some quick guide across iloilo city.
updated version will be avaialable soon. :)

re: weesam terminal
- just go with the flow when you "disembark" the fastcraft 90% of the passengers walk a mere 5minutes to the city center where PUJ abound.

whyte

October 3rd, 2007, 05:57 AM

^^ great structures to complement the ever hoped-for and long overdue beautification of the the iloilo river!

yup.i would like to see most if not all of the riverside be sort of "planted with mangroves" or other greenery.

whyte

October 3rd, 2007, 06:16 AM

Ill be posting my NEW ILOILO AIRPORT GUIDE for "newbies" one of these days :lol:

syempre my picture para mas madali :lol:

spacewagon1

October 3rd, 2007, 06:39 AM

looks more and more news are coming from Megaworld lately.

The eye of development is on Megaworld's project in Iloilo at present. Quite an ambitious project fom one of the biggest and best developer in the country today.

I hope one day, MEGAWORLD will be synonymous to ILOILO.

spacewagon1

October 3rd, 2007, 06:40 AM

Megaworld shelling out P1.5B for initial dev't of old Iloilo airport (http://www.gmanews.tv/story/62911/Megaworld-shelling-out-P15B-for-initial-devt-of-old-Iloilo-airport)

Property developer Megaworld Corp. on Wednesday said it would initially spend some P1.5 billion to develop the old airport in Mandurriao, Iloilo, which it formally acquired on Oct. 1.

In a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange, Megaworld said the P1.5 billion will be used for "initial development costs for the hotel, convention facilities and business process outsourcing offices to be constructed on the old Iloilo Airport property."

Megaworld earlier disclosed that it has signed a sale and purchase agreement with the government for the property, which it had acquired for P1.2 billion.

The company has already applied with the Philippine Economic Zone Authority for a special economic zone license for the area. Megaworld said it plans to turn the old airport into Iloilo's newest business district.

Aside from building a BPO complex, Megaworld said it also plans to construct educational facilities in the area geared at equipping prospective employees of call centers and other BPO firms.

Earlier in the year, the government tried but failed to bid out the old Iloilo airport as the bids of the three participating groups fell below the P1.2-billion asking price.

Robinsons Land, the company with the highest bid, offered only P1.089 billion for the property while Empire East had a bid of P701 million, and SM Prime Holdings offered P435.7 million. Two other pre-qualified bidders, Ayala Land and Rockwell Land, did not attend the bidding.

After the failed bidding, Megaworld decided to enter into a negotiated sale of the property for the indicative price of P1.2 billion. Megaworld is the parent company of Empire East

^^ ^^ this is from Sinjin's post in Iloilo (Mandurriao) Thread. Again, very impressive developmnt and plan. I wonder when are they going to start the construction of these proposals?

whyte

October 3rd, 2007, 06:41 AM

^^^
yup.it can be concluded that this is their biggest on-going/near construction project outside manila so hopefully we can be assured of something new and great in the moths to come

:wave:

habagatcentral1

October 3rd, 2007, 06:42 AM

Top 15 Dinagyang tribes to get subsidy

ILOILO City – The Iloilo Dinagyang Foundation, Incorporated (IDFI) recently revealed that only the top 15 ranked in this year’s Dinagyang Festival will be given subsidy for next year’s competition which is slated on January 27th,2008.

The top 10 will be given a 100 percent subsidy, while the 11th to15th places will receive 75 percent subsidy. The rest of the tribes not named in the ranking may still participate but they have to look for their own sponsors.

IDFI executive director Benito Jimena said that the purpose of this is to further motivate the various tribes in making their presentations better and grander each year. “It always brings us pride to hear that the festival is world-class, so to ensure that it will sustain its standards, the IDFI has decided to subsidize only the top 15 tribes of this year’s competition,” Jimena said.

The top ten tribes are Tribus Ilonganon, Paghidaet, Ang Taga Jaro, Silak, Atub-Atub, San Pedro, Baryohanon, Molavi, Aninipay and Kalubihan.

The 11th to 15th tribes on the other hand, are Pagasa, Pana-ad, Dagyaw Ta, Familia Sagrada and Parianon.

Subsidy shall be released on a staggered basis depending on the availability of funds provided the tribe officials have done the following: signed a Memorandum of Agreement with the IDFI; submitted a budget and filled out a contest entry form. No final amount for the subsidies has yet been declared.

Meanwhile, Jimena said that the IDFI will also be implementing new policies and rulings for Dinagyang Festival 2008 to ensure a better festival. One major change is that instead of five judging areas, there will only be four next year, namely, Freedom Grandstand, Provincial Capitol at the Bonifacio Drive approach to the LaPuz bridge, Corner Quezon-Ledesma and Maria Clara.

Source: Panay News

habagatcentral1

October 3rd, 2007, 06:43 AM

Lets wait for the 2nd quarter of 2008 (that's what we've heard) for the initial plans and construction of the old Mandurriao Airport. :)

whyte

October 3rd, 2007, 06:43 AM

^^ ^^ this is from Sinjin's post in Iloilo (Mandurriao) Thread. Again, very impressive developmnt and plan. I wonder when are they going to start the construction of these proposals?

i heard around 2nd half of 2008.thats the construction part so i guess the first half of next year be devoted to planning and obviously press releases :banana:

spacewagon1

October 3rd, 2007, 06:44 AM

Guv seeks P23-M extra budget
By Francis Allan L. Angelo

GOVERNOR Niel Tupas Sr. has asked the Sangguniang Panlalawigan to approve a fourth supplemental budget amounting to more than P23 million.

The committee on appropriations chaired by Vice Governor Rolex Suplico will deliberate the 4th supplemental budget, a bulk of which will be allocated to gasoline, oil and lubricants (GOL) expenses.

The additional budget will be taken from excess collection of local taxes from the 2007 target collection estimates; real property taxes due to local government units; and deferred credits, reversion of accounts payable and reversion of obligations.
Based on the breakdown provided by the Office of the Governor (OG), some P2.4 million of the 4th supplemental budget will be allocated to general services under the OG’s account.

Another P2 million will be set aside for the GOL expenses also of the governor’s office. Office supplies expenses account for P500,000 while a total of P800,000 is allocated for other maintenance and operating expenses.

The SP also set aside P702,095 for the hiring of casual employees for the offices of provincial board members.

Some P2 million is allocated for the purchase of drugs and anti-rabies vaccines by the Provincial Health Office.

In the capital outlay account, the OG also asked P1.6 million for the procurement of motor vehicle and police motorcycle.

More than P9 million will be set aside for the purchase of equipment and infrastructure improvements of seven provincial and district hospitals.

Tupas said his regular budget for fuel ran out as other capitol offices are asking for gasoline allocation from his account.

The governor said that aside from four vehicles used by his office, he is also giving fuel to Bantay Dagat patrol boats operating in northern Iloilo.

Suplico said they will carefully study the additional budget, especially the fuel allocation of his uncle governor Tupas.

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

whyte

October 3rd, 2007, 06:47 AM

BERNIE
just wait for the pics of the iloilo-bacolod eb. :lol:
naprepare ko na.syempre may silay pics man didto.
though gamay lang ipost ko kay hambal ni "manang" for our eyes lang ang iban nga pics. :D
syempre ipost ko gid ang mga pics nga nagaposing ka :D

IAMME

October 3rd, 2007, 06:49 AM

In a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange, Megaworld said the P1.5 billion will be used for "initial development costs for the hotel, convention facilities and business process outsourcing offices to be constructed on the old Iloilo Airport property."

Seems like the province might not need to spend P350M(?) for another convention facility.:)

spacewagon1

October 3rd, 2007, 06:50 AM

^^^
yup.it can be concluded that this is their biggest on-going/near construction project outside manila so hopefully we can be assured of something new and great in the moths to come

:wave:
seems like it. I'm very glad for that matter. Needless to say, since this will be their biggest gamble and risk, they'll surely try to prove their worth in the businessworld. Their focus on developing Iloilo's Mandurriao site will be their best shot after their major projects in Manila. If we are looking at horizontal development here, I think it'll be slightly modified lately. I think there will be mid-highrises to erect in the area and/or skyscrapers, too. But watch out, guys. I'm very excited, too !

habagatcentral1

October 3rd, 2007, 06:51 AM

^^ Ginahulat ko na gid ina. Wahahaha!!! Sin-o naman si "manang" haw? hahahaha!!! :lol: Ipost lang sa Iririmaw Thread sa Samahan, hehehehe!!!

Sugaton ko Nong sa Sabado sa Airport, 8:30AM ang arrival. :D

A Feature Article from Inquirer Visayas

No rocket science needed for teacher’s award streak

By Ma. Diosa Labiste
Inquirer
Last updated 01:31am (Mla time) 09/29/2007

ILOILO CITY—If life’s a lotto, science teacher Josette Biyo has won it several times.

On Sept. 19, she copped another grand prize, the Presidential or Lingkod Bayan award, given by the Civil Service Commission (CSC) to government workers in recognition of their commitment to the ideals of public service.

And Biyo, 49, who is also the director of the Philippine Science High School in Western Visayas, exemplifies that dedication as a government employee.

Biyo, who has a doctorate in biology, was cited for “developing a culture of science among the youth through research, resulting in the high quality of researches of students and faculty members, gaining both national and international recognition.”

Her work on “introducing science research modules and innovations, giving motivational speeches makes her a world-class teacher worthy of emulation,” according to the CSC.

Biyo is one of the five individual recipients of the Lingkod Bayan awards. Other awardees are Air Force Capt. Giemel Espino, Trade Undersecretary Zenaida Maglaya, Chief Supt. Samson Tucay and Gov. Rolando Yebes of Zamboanga del Norte.

Two institutional awards were given to the Benguet State University for developing potato and sweet potato varieties for the Cordillera, and the Philippine General Hospital.

Most meaningful

“I have won many top awards but this (Lingkod Bayan) is the most meaningful of them all. The screening was rigid and I didn’t expect to emerge as one of the five winners,” said Biyo.

She felt honored to have competed with politicians and ordinary government workers who must have spent years doing their work unrecognized.

Biyo, who joined the government in 1994, is proud to be recognized as an outstanding public employee, aside from being a science teacher.

As a winner, she is entitled to an automatic promotion or a salary equivalent to the next higher position, but the latter is more likely since she is already holding the top position as a director.

The award also comes with a prize of P100,000.

Past awards

Before she received the Lingkod Bayan award, Biyo had won several coveted national and international awards that come with handsome cash prizes. The biggest was the 2002 Intel Excellence in Teaching given in Louisville, Kentucky, in the United States. She not only bagged $5,000 but, as part of the recognition, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Lincoln laboratory also named an asteroid (minor planet) after her.

The Intel award propelled her to celebrity status and opened the door for more awards (a room in her house is filled with these awards).

She received an honorary degree of doctor of humanities from the Manila Central University and numerous invitations to give speeches in the country and abroad.

She also became an endorser of insurance and a pharmaceutical company that eventually supported some science research projects of students, and received citations and medals of merit from President Macapagal-Arroyo, the Senate and expatriates in the US for being the first Filipino and the first Asian teacher to win the Intel award.

Biyo was named one of the Ten Outstanding Young Men in 1998. She received the Metrobank Outstanding Teacher in 1997 and the 2004 Metrobank award “for those who stand out for continuing excellence and service.” The first one has no cash reward, but Metrobank gives P100,000 to winners.

Press darling

Biyo was recognized as outstanding Ilonggo in the field of education by the Iloilo provincial government in 2003.

She is a “press darling” or a bankable personality to be profiled by magazines and coffee table book writers. The stories they wrote conferred on her more recall, giving a face to an otherwise cut-off world of science teaching, and an interesting hook and angle that attracted more readers.

For example, the repeated quote was from Biyo’s book published in 2005 and titled “A Trip to Planet Biyo: I dreamt of stars … I got a planet.” The book, which she distributed to students, schools and private groups, has the message “Being a teacher is a noble profession; being a Filipino is something to be proud of.”

Biyo said many had listened to her message, as shown by the e-mail, letters and feedback that she got. She believed that she “has inspired individuals and companies to pursue their dreams, and even convinced several people, especially teachers, doctors and nurses to stay in the country.”

Biyo tries to wear her celebrity status lightly. She said through SMS: “In winning the awards, you don’t have to be somebody else. Just be yourself and enjoy what you are doing. No rocket science needed. Just consistency of purpose and giving the best of your self for the glory of God and country.”

Source: Inquirer.net (http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/regions/view_article.php?article_id=91404)

spacewagon1

October 3rd, 2007, 06:52 AM

i heard around 2nd half of 2008.thats the construction part so i guess the first half of next year be devoted to planning and obviously press releases :banana:
that's a year more, whyte. Not too bad I think. And you're right about planning and press releases. I think they'll even spend more on promotion of their projects in Iloilo. Well, Dinagyang could be the best venue to meet other businessmen who wanted to invest in the city. I hope the new hotel/s they are talking about here in a five-star one and with 300 to 500 room facility. We need bigger hotels in Iloilo to accommodate our increasing numbers of tourists and visitors coming to Iloilo.

whyte

October 3rd, 2007, 06:56 AM

Seems like the province might not need to spend P350M(?) for another convention facility.:)

the fear of being upstaged by another convention center in the new business district is understandable :D but IMO it would still be better if this convention center of the province project would still be built.the more chances of attracting more conventions.

spacewagon1

October 3rd, 2007, 06:57 AM

Seems like the province might not need to spend P350M(?) for another convention facility.:)
it could be the case. But Megaworld's Convention Facilities is a private one. The province is looking for income-generating project to raise the province's income. Two things came up in their minds - the convention center and IT Park - as they've learned that they can gain a lot from these projects. No matter how many convention facilities we have in Iloilo, we will surely fill them up. Concerts of national and international stars and artists are increasingly happening in Iloilo City recently. Another one, is the back-to-back conventions, workshops, seminars, etc happening in Iloilo lately that til now, utilise most of the city's universities halls to accomodate all of them. And I think a lot more to come soon once these facilities will be in placed.

whyte

October 3rd, 2007, 07:00 AM

^^ Ginahulat ko na gid ina. Wahahaha!!! Sin-o naman si "manang" haw? hahahaha!!! :lol: Ipost lang sa Iririmaw Thread sa Samahan, hehehehe!!!

Sugaton ko Nong sa Sabado sa Airport, 8:30AM ang arrival. :D

si manang sa balay negrense sa silay bala.
ill just PM the pics anay to the attendees of the EB :D
then kamo na bahal kon diin nyo ipost

ano kalawig ang bakasyon mo?
new airport pics naman ina hehehe

whyte

October 3rd, 2007, 07:08 AM

that's a year more, whyte. Not too bad I think. And you're right about planning and press releases. I think they'll even spend more on promotion of their projects in Iloilo. Well, Dinagyang could be the best venue to meet other businessmen who wanted to invest in the city. I hope the new hotel/s they are talking about here in a five-star one and with 300 to 500 room facility. We need bigger hotels in Iloilo to accommodate our increasing numbers of tourists and visitors coming to Iloilo.

a project of this magnitude really needs careful planning etc.
plus they also have other projects in the country.
Dinagyang is always one of the best times to promote (Im sure the NIA will have its promotional glory by then :lol: - i was :bash: when the national media wasn't that interested in the NIA in its opening :bash: )
IMO megaworld is trying to recreate eastwood city in a much smaller scale in their newly acquied property :banana:
personally its still early to build a 300-500 room hotel in the city hopefully it'll only take less than 5 years to make this one a reality

habagatcentral1

October 3rd, 2007, 07:12 AM

spacewagon1

October 3rd, 2007, 07:14 AM

^^ It remains to be seen. We still have 3 more left for the year to end. I think some businesses will use this time to lobby more schemes for the next year to come. One thing for sure, new hotel players will be coming to Iloilo soon.

habagatcentral1

October 3rd, 2007, 07:27 AM

^^ But along this spur of developments, hopefuly Roni Peñalosa and the rest of urban planners would also not rest on their laurels that Iloilo's current urban planning is good. Because if right now, we are having problems with traffic congestion and narrow streets, what will happen if these businesses and Iloilo City saturated already? Hopefuly they don't let happen what happened to Cavite in the mid-90's that lead to a booming property purchases yet infrastructure projects were few by then.

spacewagon1

October 3rd, 2007, 07:33 AM

^^ hence, the creation of MIGEDC. I think Iloilo City will never be as saturated as much as Metro Manila anyway. They plan ahead of time about this thing, which leads to the creations of MIG towns. They'll spread the investments soon. It just now we can see it's becoming more and more saturated but remember that we still have ample of land to develop in the city. On the other hand, MIG will definitely collaborate.

habagatcentral1

October 3rd, 2007, 07:41 AM

^^ Thats the thing though because most of the old Visayan cities (with the exception of Bacolod) tend to "compress and expand" (highly-dense cities with increasing population) rather than "expand and sprawl" (less-dense cities with increasing population yet make use of lands outside of the downtown area or within the 5 kilometer radius of the city center) which is a trend to most Mindanao cities.

And definitely the towns outside Iloilo City would not want to be integrated with the city but instead will cooperate since the city's populace is also spilling over to the MIG towns.

Regarding Councilor Plagata's traffic scheme of not letting the Metro Iloilo jeepneys enter the city streets, it is a good plan though although he also has to look with the city loop jeepneys which is the major cause of traffic jams in the city center, especially that notorious "Jaro CPU" jeepneys.

I have this impression that this idea came from Cebu, because Metro Cebu's jeepneys (except for the hard-headed Mandaue jeepneys) are not allowed to go in the city center as they congest more of the city streets.

whyte

October 3rd, 2007, 07:50 AM

^^ Indi na ni bakasyon. Masaylo ko balik sa Iloilo, hehehe!! :D

Anyway, the increasing "tension" of convention centers and hotels, motels and inns mushrooming is an indicator of increasing demand in convention and accommodation necessities of the city. Its a good indicator that Iloilo is finally coming out of the shadows.

aw ah.abi ko didto ka sa bacolod masaylo kay namit/nami ang KUPPA :lol:
nami gid man tani mag branch sila diri :):banana:

yup.we need these facilities to make the what mayor trenas wants iloilo city ot be the next convention destination.hopefully by 2009 we have good facilities to "corner" the ad congress

whyte

October 3rd, 2007, 07:56 AM

By the way, while we are all thinking big about the city, cant help but notice small things that the city and/or province are neglecting.

ROADS

- from cpu to jaro plaza :bash:
- a portion of diversion between el98 junction and sm city :bash:
- ungka near petron station near the pavia-ungka boundary :bash:

habagatcentral1

October 3rd, 2007, 07:59 AM

^^ Calle Lopez-Jaena Jaro. I thought that there was a project improving the Iloilo North Road by the administration from Dalan Simon Ledesma all the way to Sambag Jaro. I suggest that they have to fix the drainage and use concrete instead of asphalt as this area is frequently flooded and will be the major cause of potholes.

Usually before Dinagyang or near X'mas season, DPWH would rush to fix these roads with patches of asphalt again and a year later, would patch it up again and again and again. Talk about high-maintenance! :ohno:

METROPOLITAN_ILOILO

October 3rd, 2007, 12:02 PM

METROPOLITAN_ILOILO

October 3rd, 2007, 12:08 PM

At last and update, keep it all coming migo Space... :)

nice to be back here after a short hiatus...

IMPRESARIO

October 3rd, 2007, 12:32 PM

freezing_pt

October 3rd, 2007, 01:02 PM

URC acquires largest sugar mill in Panay

10/03/2007 | 03:43 PM

Gokongwei-led food and beverage manufacturer Universal Robina Corporation on Wednesday announced that it purchased the manufacturing assets of PASSI (Iloilo) Sugar Central Inc.

PASSI (Iloilo) Sugar Central, Inc. is the largest raw sugar producer in the province of Panay, operating two sugar mills with a combined milling capacity of about 8,000 tons of cane per day, URC said.

Company officials refused to give additional details about the transaction, including the sale price, citing a confidentiality agreement with the sellers.

“We are looking forward to this development. This purchase, together with the expansion of our SONEDCO (Negros) mills and refinery, will catapult URC to become the Philippines’ second (2nd) largest sugar miller and refiner," URC president and chief operating officer Lance Gokongwei said in a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange.

URC currently operates cane sugar mills and refineries in Cagayan Valley in Luzon, Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental, and in Manjuyod, Negros Oriental. These have a combined milling capacity of 17,000 tons of canes per day and total refining capacity of 17,000 50-kg bags per day.

In fiscal year 2006, URC produced approximately 166,000 metric tons of raw sugar and 1.7 million 50-kg bags of refined sugar. - Cheryl Arcibal, GMANews.TV

http://www.gmanews.tv/story/62947/URC-acquires-largest-sugar-mill-in-Panay

IMPRESARIO

October 3rd, 2007, 01:08 PM

^^Wow, hope this is a good news for the Laborers in Passi Sugar Central.

habagatcentral1

October 3rd, 2007, 01:23 PM

So confirmned na ginbakal na ni Gokongwei ang Passi Sugar Central

shyaman

October 3rd, 2007, 02:09 PM

iloilocitykid

October 3rd, 2007, 04:07 PM

spacewagon1

October 3rd, 2007, 04:52 PM

^^ Bag-o lang ko kabati sining balita. Daw waay gid ni nachismis sang pagpuli ko. An uncle is working there for more than 20 years but he has not mentioned anything about this take-over 5 months ago when I went home.

Nevertheless, this is great news. Gogongwei's acquisition of PSC could mean future commercial and residential developments in Passi as well. I hope they will also try to venture in food processing someday, taking advantage of the abundance of pineapples in Passi.
Shy, the first time I read the news in Panay News' Lapsus Calami a month ago, give me a ambivalent feeling whether this is just a hearsay since Ihaven't heard Robinson's eyeing land or any property in Passi. I've heard a lot that they are continuously scouting for land to develop in Iloilo and/or nearby towns (Metro Iloilo area) but not in Passi. However, I will always hold this news a an act towards progress for Pass. Like I've said before, after the acquisition of sugar centrals, URC or RLC will definitely make move to improve things sorrounding the sugar central areas and this is indeed a welcoming news for Passi City. Investment from RLC will pour in Passi in due time. I hope they'll not only develop the sugar centrals and opening a food processing plant but projects like residential for the workers and a lot more, too.

spacewagon1

October 3rd, 2007, 05:00 PM

^^

hehe as usual band aid solution... nami gid na siya concrete road dapat pra mapag-on...

hays... anyway so far a lot of good news... thanks for all the updates... i have to read 3-5 pages...

hi to all! :D
as usual. However, we need bigger budget if we would re-concretised the whole road. However, it still nice to know that they are doing something. It's where our taxes go. he he.

Metro, 3-5 pages reading is not bad at all. Most of them are articles only anyway.

ang road dira sa CPU dapat one way na lang ina tani, CPU should develop the back of the UC as another main entrance to the University. i really dunno how we can fix this problem in our congested city.
I don't think it will be feasible at all, Incognito. Area like these will always posed problem of traffic and congestion. As I always said, we can transform our city into a different scheme as it is an old city already. If we want bigger roads, I suggest to have it outside the city proper area and the rest of its districts. New roads,bigger roads will be more feasible in areas of new developments preferably around MIG towns. These areas can still be manipulated when it comes to development and creation of new business and commercial centers. For us to aspire for the city to have a road with 6-8 lanes is quite impossible by now. How I wish developers and planners of MIG towns will consider bigger road projects within their vicinities in the near future.

spacewagon1

October 3rd, 2007, 05:03 PM

Guys, good news but I don't know if you already know but it seems my cousin who happens to have a friend who's relative is a broker for Ayala Corp has actually said the plans of Ayala to have a residential area in Iloilo is situated in PAVIA. New news?
And also, Nes and Tat's along the diversion road is transfering their location along Tabucan-Diversion Road.

IloiloCityKid, confirmed na gid man ini sa Pavia? I hope Ayala Land will soon materialised their plan here in Iloilo. Problem with them is their idea of location and the area of land to be acquired. Amo ini ang nagpa-delay sa ila development. Damo sila gusto and damo sila plano, hence, their precious were wasted looking for property around. I just hope this is for good na.

But mind you, this will not the last project of Ayala in Iloilo. he he. I've heard more from a reliable source as well.:cheers:

spacewagon1

October 3rd, 2007, 05:05 PM

no probs, metro. I think as December nears, more fashion shows will be "on" in Cosmo Iloilo.

COLLIN JASPER

October 3rd, 2007, 05:27 PM

IloiloCityKid, confirmed na gid man ini sa Pavia? I hope Ayala Land will soon materialised their plan here in Iloilo. Problem with them is their idea of location and the area of land to be acquired. Amo ini ang nagpa-delay sa ila development. Damo sila gusto and damo sila plano, hence, their precious were wasted looking for property around. I just hope this is for good na.

But mind you, this will not the last project of Ayala in Iloilo. he he. I've heard more from a reliable source as well.:cheers:

Wahahaha this is im waiting for. Tama gd man ang hambal nga matapos na ang contract sng Nes and Tats sa diversion road, to give way to the proposed FIVE STAR HOTEL. dapat Dec 2006 pa ina matapos ang contract sng restaurant. Subogn kay closed na ang old airport ma dayon gd man ang five star hotel dira.

spacewagon1

October 3rd, 2007, 05:47 PM

New city abattoir opens next month

ILOILO City – The city’s slaughterhouse will already be operational in November, Mayor Jerry Treñas announced. Treñas said the city government has already provided its counterparts as required by the Department of Agriculture (DA) such as the site of the slaughterhouse, access road and fencing, among others.

He said the design for the waste water treatment facility was already completed and they are just waiting for the installation of additional equipment that was specified by the National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS).

The mayor added that by November, the lighting facilities and the hog line will already be installed.

Agriculture Secretary Arthur Yap, during his visit to Iloilo City last week, stressed that he wanted the slaughterhouse completed soon for Iloilo and Panay to be able to send prime cut meats to Manila and not live hogs.

source: Panay News (http://www.panaynewsphilippines.com/guimaras3.htm)

spacewagon1

October 3rd, 2007, 05:51 PM

Iloilo Capitol in RP's Billionaire's Club
By Florence F. Hibionada

Official nod is being sought on over P23.8 million in additional Capitol budget, the fourth for this year in a supplemental budget that has thus far reached about P138 million.

The total amount added to the current budget of over P973 million places the Iloilo Provincial Government in the nation's Billionaire's club anew.

The request came from Governor Niel Tupas Sr. with the matter now under study, evaluation and consideration of the Iloilo Sanggunian Panlalawigan's Committee on Appropriations.

Bulk of the latest request includes planned expenditures of over P4 million in gasoline, oil and lubricant expenses. P2 million of which is intended for the Office of the Governor, over P1.5 million for the same gas allowance of the Provincial Engineers Office and nearly P600,000 for the Iloilo Rehabilitation Center. Additional office supplies are also needed by the governor valued at half a million pesos. And Governor's office again with the need to pay general services of over P2.4 million alongside P2 million in anti-rabies vaccine.

Other identified expenses are police motorcycle units worth P1.6 million while various district hospitals will get millions in equipment.

Iloilo Provincial Hospital is set to have a cardiac monitor with defibrillator valued P1.16 million, a humacloth junior valued P450,000, a hematology analyzer worth P950,000 and hospital beds worth P350,000.

Upgrading also awaits the facilities and equipment of Aleosan District Hospital, Don Valerio Palmares District Hospital, Dr. Ricardo Provido Memorial Hospital, Pedro Trono Memorial Hospital, Barotac Viejo District Hospital and the Dr. R. Ladrido Hospital.

source: The News Today (http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/10/03/iloilo.capitol.in.rps.billionaires.club.html)

^^ ^^ if this is so true, then the CITY and the PROVINCE belongs to the same club by now. Good for Tupas !

Jimbu

October 3rd, 2007, 11:48 PM

Megaworld allots P1.5B for dev’t of Iloilo airport into ecozone (http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Business&p=49&type=2&sec=27&aid=2007100349)
By Zinnia B. Dela Peña
The Philippine Star
Thursday, October 4, 2007

Upscale property developer Megaworld Corp. is allotting an initial P1.5 billion for the development of its recently-acquired property in Mandurriao, Iloilo.

In a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange, Megaworld first vice president and corporate information officer Francisco Canuto said the initial development costs will cover the hotel, convention facilities and business process outsourcing (BPO) office buildings to be constructed on the old Iloilo Airport property.

Megaworld acquired the property from the government for P1.2 billion.

The company has already applied with the Philippine Economic Zone Authority for a special economic zone license for the area.

Megaworld said it plans to turn the old airport into Iloilo’s newest business district.

Aside from building a BPO complex, Megaworld said it also plans to construct educational facilities in the area geared at equipping prospective employees of call centers and other BPO firms.

chymera00

October 4th, 2007, 02:53 AM

kirby21

October 4th, 2007, 02:56 AM

Wahahaha this is im waiting for. Tama gd man ang hambal nga matapos na ang contract sng Nes and Tats sa diversion road, to give way to the proposed FIVE STAR HOTEL. dapat Dec 2006 pa ina matapos ang contract sng restaurant. Subogn kay closed na ang old airport ma dayon gd man ang five star hotel dira.
Are you talking about Florete's five-star hotel proposal? How I wish they'll push the project soon. I don't know why Nes and Tats had extended their contract for few months? Probably, Florete just decided to have a go now.

kirby21

October 4th, 2007, 03:06 AM

cool. They're really bent on developing the property ASAP.

^^^
yup.it can be concluded that this is their biggest on-going/near construction project outside manila so hopefully we can be assured of something new and great in the moths to come

:wave:

Lets wait for the 2nd quarter of 2008 (that's what we've heard) for the initial plans and construction of the old Mandurriao Airport. :)

i heard around 2nd half of 2008.thats the construction part so i guess the first half of next year be devoted to planning and obviously press releases :banana:

the fear of being upstaged by another convention center in the new business district is understandable :D but IMO it would still be better if this convention center of the province project would still be built.the more chances of attracting more conventions.

it could be the case. But Megaworld's Convention Facilities is a private one. The province is looking for income-generating project to raise the province's income. Two things came up in their minds - the convention center and IT Park - as they've learned that they can gain a lot from these projects. No matter how many convention facilities we have in Iloilo, we will surely fill them up. Concerts of national and international stars and artists are increasingly happening in Iloilo City recently. Another one, is the back-to-back conventions, workshops, seminars, etc happening in Iloilo lately that til now, utilise most of the city's universities halls to accomodate all of them. And I think a lot more to come soon once these facilities will be in placed.

a project of this magnitude really needs careful planning etc.
plus they also have other projects in the country.
Dinagyang is always one of the best times to promote (Im sure the NIA will have its promotional glory by then :lol: - i was :bash: when the national media wasn't that interested in the NIA in its opening :bash: )
IMO megaworld is trying to recreate eastwood city in a much smaller scale in their newly acquied property :banana:
personally its still early to build a 300-500 room hotel in the city hopefully it'll only take less than 5 years to make this one a reality
dream, dream, dream ... lala ... lalalala
I'm all smile reading all these stuffs about Megaworld. I know I should hold back some of my enthusiasm but hey, the positive vibs in on our side. Do you think we can have a suggestion box for megaworld's future projects? hahahahaha.

kirby21

October 4th, 2007, 03:43 AM

habagatcentral1

October 4th, 2007, 05:35 AM

Guys, good news but I don't know if you already know but it seems my cousin who happens to have a friend who's relative is a broker for Ayala Corp has actually said the plans of Ayala to have a residential area in Iloilo is situated in PAVIA. New news?
And also, Nes and Tat's along the diversion road is transfering their location along Tabucan-Diversion Road.

Good for Pavia to host another big real estate developer in Iloilo.

I was thinking about Jibao-an Area for Ayala but let me ask the municipio for the confirmation of the said project. Because for the past 4 years, we've thought of San Jose, San Miguel as the probable location of Ayala's residential area.

I'll be in Iloilo starting Saturday and will be updating regularly about the developments and issues seen and not seen in online local dailies. :okay:

METROPOLITAN_ILOILO

October 4th, 2007, 06:05 AM

^^

hmm maybe there is an overlap in the Ayala Development area... like Savannah it comprises the towns of Pavia, Oton and San Miguel.... with Exit in Pavia and main entrance in Oton...

like the airport as well... tri-boundaries of San Miguel, Cabatuan and Sta. Barbara....

hmm... San Miguel is always there... actually nice location for other purposes... not just agricultural but it has to honor the MIGD role as a food basket for Metro ILOILO...

otherwise I have my suggestions...

nice Berns... we'll be loooking forward for your UPDATES... straight from the horse's mouths.... :D

habagatcentral1

October 4th, 2007, 08:33 AM

^^ I'm no horse. I'm a pig. :lol:

Anyway, there may be interlapping territories though. Pavia is said to be the smallest town in terms of area in Iloilo and the MI townships are also small in area size (pwera Oton and Santa Barbara) therefore there is a possibility of overlapping teritorries.

daks2003

October 4th, 2007, 12:19 PM

Its because Nes and Tat's is a client of QueenBank...I heard that most of his development and expansion(like the resort in oton) is being financed by the said bank. Ayuda lang ina man sa ila kliyente :) The newly acquired lot by Nes and Tat's costs around 15M kuno and still financed man gihapon by the same bank.

Are you talking about Florete's five-star hotel proposal? How I wish they'll push the project soon. I don't know why Nes and Tats had extended their contract for few months? Probably, Florete just decided to have a go now.

iloilocitykid

October 4th, 2007, 01:15 PM

^^ Are there sources that this will be a five-star?

habagatcentral1

October 4th, 2007, 01:30 PM

^^ No sources yet but that will be good if will be a five-star though. :okay:
But anyway, lets be tangible of our efforts in coming out of the shadow of the past. :)

iloilocitykid

October 4th, 2007, 01:35 PM

How come they're not finishing the flyover? It's been too long since the rain came.

habagatcentral1

October 4th, 2007, 01:35 PM

^^Ask our beloved DPWH. I'm already used to their rhetorics of delays and bureaucracy. :ohno:

iloilocitykid

October 4th, 2007, 01:44 PM

^^ Lazy people.

Here's one thing I knew last week. The new Deputy Ombudsman of the Visayas was fetched by Vice Governor Suplico and took him to lunch. I know for certain he can't get that guy since the new ombudsman is one tough guy, known even in Manila for not stepping too low to get bribed.

habagatcentral1

October 4th, 2007, 01:46 PM

^^ Aw ah, pulitika! I think he was busy with the ZTE and Abalos thingy. :lol:

habagatcentral1

October 4th, 2007, 03:46 PM

^^ Flash ai? Bakal bala sang bag-o nga cam! hehehe!!! Anyway, how was it?

iloilocitykid

October 4th, 2007, 03:46 PM

^^ :lol:

Just went to NIA and the place never ceases to amaze me. Sorry I had no pics. My camera is blind in the dark

iloilocitykid

October 4th, 2007, 04:13 PM

^^ Flash ai? Bakal bala sang bag-o nga cam! hehehe!!! Anyway, how was it?

Lovely, clean and serene even when there are a lot of people. No, my cam's flash is broken and it's digital. :ohno: I really want a new one so if you could, you could give me one :lol: joke

The place looks more like a hotel rather than an airport.

habagatcentral1

October 4th, 2007, 04:15 PM

^^ By the way, regarding hotels, I hope that some investor would consider putting up even just a mini-hotel to accommodate the travelers.

iloilocitykid

October 4th, 2007, 04:22 PM

^^ Along the road? Yes. The nearest hotel is probably in Ungka Area, the Moritz Hotel

habagatcentral1

October 4th, 2007, 04:22 PM

^^ I think so. Sa Amigo gani served breakfast in bed pa kami to sa una, wahehehe!!! :lol:

death327

October 4th, 2007, 04:23 PM

Congrats Iloilo for having Megaworld! :D

@Hotels - do we have any Bed and Breakfast in the city?

METROPOLITAN_ILOILO

October 5th, 2007, 07:39 AM

^^
Hmm i don't think so... its more of a western style... pero may mga boarding house na mo na ang style... hehehe :lol:

SugarFreak

October 5th, 2007, 12:55 PM

good a lots of residential communities rising in pavia towns...congrats to iloilo too for having...old megaworld...the old airport is a best to replace into an economic zone

SugarFreak

October 5th, 2007, 01:09 PM

repost
with Primo Esleyer OPINIONS
How our cities performed
George Sanchez, who opposes the retention of the Bacolod airport, will be on Feedback tonight at 7 on Channel 14. We have to hear him also. Just phone in your questions, if you have any.

While we are for the retention, it's good that the question is discussed openly. The people in Bacolod know what is good for them.

* * *

Yesterday, I discussed the provinces' financial reports putting Neg. Occ. as the country's third biggest province in total income after Bulacan and Cebu. There are 115 cities, 77 provinces.
In cities, I limit myself to the cities in West Visayas only, 16 of them, three in Panay and 13 in Negros Occidental.

In total income, here's their rank; their respective total income and enclosed in parenthesis is their rank nationwide: 1. Iloilo, P833.344M (23); 2. Bacolod, P701.640M (28); 3. Kabankalan, P444.640M (46); 4. San Carlos, P437.385M (47); 5. Cadiz, P413.695M (55). 6. Sagay, P379.618M (61); 7. Bago, P366.275M (63); 8. Silay, P296.654M (80); 9. Roxas, P294.086M (81); 10. Himamaylan, P269.626M (87); 11. Victorias, P262.139M (88); 12. Passi, P261.664M (89); 13. Sipalay, P251.692M (93); 14. Talisay, P247.93M (94); 15. Escalante, P232.151M (101); and La Carlota, P123.908M (106).
source: www.daily star.com
cont'd (http://www.visayandailystar.com/2007/October/05/feedback.htm)

iloilocitykid

October 5th, 2007, 01:49 PM

^^ This was 2006's report? Good job for all the cities.

iloilocitykid

October 5th, 2007, 02:10 PM

Megaworld officials to arrive for signing of P1.2 B airport buy
By Maricar M. Calubiran

Unnamed officials of the Megaworld Corporation and the government will be in Iloilo City on October 12, 2007 for the signing of agreement for the purchase of P1.2 billion old airport site in Mandurriao district.

Mayor Jerry Treñas said the local version for the signing of the purchase of the property will be held at the Sarabia Manor Hotel and Convention Center.

However, the names of Megaworld officials due to arrive in Iloilo City are kept confidential for security purposes.

Megaworld and the government signed the purchase agreement Monday in Manila. The property was bought for P1.2 billion cash. Megaworld acquired the property after it met the minimum price set by the Privatization Council.

The Privatization Council is composed of the of the Departments of Finance, Justice, Budget and Management, Trade and the National Economic Development Authority.

Megaworld Corp. won over Robinsons Lands that submitted P1.09 billion followed by Empire East (P701 million) and SM Prime (P435.79 million). Rockwell Land Corp. and Ayala Land Inc. who earlier expressed interest to buy the property backed out.

Initially, Megaworld Pacific will have an initial investment of P1.5 billion. They hired the services of Palafox and Associates to come up with a master plan in the old airport site. Palafox was given one month time to submit the master plan.

Megaworld will apply for a special economic zone license with the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) to convert the site into a business district.

Megaworld is known for constructing high-end properties including residential and commercial projects. Among its biggest projects are the Empire East Land Holdings, Inc. and Empire East Properties, Inc.

The Megaworld plans to put up facilities for business processing outsourcing, hospital, theme park and convention center.

iloilocitykid

October 5th, 2007, 02:10 PM

Shippers feel helpless on privatization plan

By Jay Dooma Balnig

A SHIPPING group in Iloilo City felt powerless in opposing the Philippine Ports Authority's (PPA) plan of privatizing the management of the Iloilo River Wharf (IRW).

Cesar Ting of Panay Shipping Brokerage Inc. (PSBI), in a phone interview said they are still waiting for the details of the PPA's bidding of cargo handling in IRW before making any action.

Last September 17, Francisco Salem, PPA port services division manager divulged the three firms that were qualified for the final bidding. These were Iloilo Integrated Arrastre Services Corporation (Iliasco), Prudential Customs Brokerage Services Inc. (PCBSI) and the Pilipinas Port Services Inc. (PPSI).

However in an interview with Aksyon Radyo-Iloilo Ting admits, "wala man kami mahimu kun gusto namon ukon indi. Ang gobierno man gihapon ang nagapatuman (We could not do anything whether we like it or not. It's still the government that implements)."

Last year during the peak of the privatization issue, Ting's group led other shipping firms doing business in IRW in protesting against PPA's plan of turning over the wharf's operations to a private firm.

The shipping managers, cargo handlers and cargo transport group members previously signed a protest paper against privatization addressed to Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas.

They protested any attempt of privatizing the IRW management for fear that "violence and extortion might get a boost in the area."

About three years ago-during Senator Franklin Drilon's headship, the PPA, a government owned and controlled firm took over the wharf's operation following reports of extortion by some influential families and individuals.

It was learned that the PPA recently denied the motion for reconsideration filed by the Espinosa clan's port services firm, Consolidated Port Management and Services Inc., in its effort to participate in the final elimination process for the final bidding slated in Cebu. It was not however clarified if Espinosa's firm was one of the opposed bidders or if it really did not pass the PPA's standards.

In September last year, Iloilo business associations doing transactions at the waterfront including Ting's association asked Transportation and Communications Secretary Leandro Mendoza to "maintain the operations in IRW under the government's control headed by the PPA."

Ting's group expressed satisfaction with the PPA's current management but this time, after the PPA announced the qualified bidders, Ting's group was almost silent and unmoving.

iloilocitykid

October 5th, 2007, 02:11 PM

City needs additional funding for new City Hall
By Maricar M. Calubiran

The city government still needs additional funding for the construction of the eight-storey new City Hall building.

The latest budgetary estimates made by the Pacific-Orient Consultant & Management Co. Inc. pegged total construction cost to P378,987,675.

However, the budget for internal partitioning and air-condition system, site development, fit-out works (furnitures, modular partitions, blinds, carpet, etc); architect and engineering fee were not included in said estimate which is believed to reach millions more.

Currently, the city has for its disposal a total of P382 million -- P350 million loaned from Land Bank of the Philippines and P32 million collected from various Government Owned and Controlled Corporations (GOCCs).

The estimates which was signed by Conrado P. Goco, Pacific-Orient Consultant & Management Co. Inc. also said the additional cost for partitioning is P16,386,000. And for the aircon system is P30,000,000. "The additional works also affects our general requirements with additional cost of P3,247,020.

The estimates was requested by W.V. Coscolluela & Associates. The Coscolluela & Associates got the contract for the design. The lot area for the new city hall building is 2,162 square meters and the total floor area is 14,530 square meters.

The architectural works amounted to P116,240,000 and P49,402,000 for the electrical works. The plumbing and sanitary works is P13,803,500 and fire protection which is P10,897,500. The mechanical works is estimated to P31,638,600.

The estimates for the four elevator sets is P14,000,0000 and general requirements which includes mobilization, demobilization, temporary facilities, permits, BONDS, insurances, indirect, supervisor, office supplies, safety and security.

iloilocitykid

October 5th, 2007, 02:13 PM

Prove your point, anti-coal group challenged

By HERBERT VEGO

ILOILO City – Mayor Jerry P. Treñas yesterday belied the allegation of an environmental group, Green Forum, that he had fallen for deception with regard to the proposed construction by Global Business Power Corporation (GBPC) of a 100-megawatt coal-fired power plant at Brgy. Ingore.

Melvin Purzuelo, Green Forum spokesman, had told Panay News (October 3, 2007 issue), “It is very dangerous for the city to have a chief executive who could fall for the public relations antics of coal plant proponents and disregard all scientific researches by just having an ocular visit to power plants.”

Purzuelo claimed that even if it’s colorless, tasteless and odorless, coal-fired plant emission adversely affects the environment, in effect reversing himself. Previously he had been saying that coal-fired plants emit black smoke.(:lol: )

Treñas retorted that his two-day visit to Taiwan was the culmination of his long study on the applicability of coal technology as solution to the energy problem in the city.

“I have found nothing dangerous with the technology,” the mayor told this writer. “When all the developed nations have shifted to coal technology because it's cleaner and cheaper when compared to diesel, why should we be left behind? We already have many coal-fired power plants in the Philippines. No one in the vicinity of these plants suffered respiratory problems secondary to exposure to coal emission. But if the Green Forum oppositors can prove that it's harmful, then let them cite specific cases. Unfortunately, they have never discussed the matter with me.”

The same group had lashed out at Korean Power Corporation (KEPCO) for attempting to build a coal-fired power plant in Banate, Iloilo. KEPCO responded by building it in Cebu City instead. Cebuanos welcomed the move, since they had already been exposed to the safe operation of a coal-fired power plant in nearby Toledo City.

Nevertheless, the mayor refrained from lashing out at his critics.

“There are two schools of thought on coal,” Treñas said without mentioning that his detractors had chosen the old school.

The new school of thought is all about the so-called clean coal technology, the latest version of which is the circulating fluidized bed technology that traps mercury, carbon dioxide, and other harmful gases in the boiler instead of releasing them in the atmosphere.

Treñas was in Taiwan Friday and Saturday last week to observe the operations of three coal-fired power plants at the districts of Zin-shin, Nanya and Mailiao – all owned by Formosa Heavy Industries Corporation (FHIC), technical partner of GBPC for the proposed Iloilo coal-fired plant.

“I was impressed,” the mayor said. “Their power plants are very clean and surrounded by green vegetation. Each plant is equipped with a continuous emission monitoring system that ensures pollution control. I have very high level of confidence that, to preserve its reputation, Formosa would observe the same environmental standard for us Ilonggos.”
The mayor admitted that Formosa shouldered his plane and hotel accommodations, but with no strings attached.

“It's not I,” he added, “but the Department of Environment and Natural Resources that would issue the environmental compliance certificate as prerequisite to the plant construction.”

iloilocitykid

October 5th, 2007, 02:16 PM

DBP says sorry to Treñas

By DAVID ISRAEL SINAY

ILOILO City – For the inconvenience it caused Mayor Jerry Treñas in recent weeks, Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) president and chief executive officer (CEO) Reynaldo David yesterday personally apologized to the city’s chief executive.

DBP-Iloilo manager Crisanta Ibero had written Treñas twice informing him of the bank’s interest rates regarding the loan the city planned to secure to finance the new city hall.

The letters surprised Treñas because it was already known that the city has already signed an agreement with the Land Bank of the Philippines’ (LBP) regarding the P350-million loan needed to construct the 8-storey city hall building.

The first proposal letter of Ibero, dated September 24, stated an annual interest rate of 6.5 percent.

On September 28, however, she sent another letter to the city’s chief executive, copy furnished the Office of the Vice Mayor and the city councilors, stating that the DBP loan was now at seven percent interest rate per annum.

The rate of 6.5 percent per annum is variable and the effective rate is higher than seven percent per year inclusive of other charges such as the gross receipt tax and processing fee at 0.5 percent, her letter explained.

The two letters resulted to insinuations that there was a finder’s fee (commission) offered by the LBP.

“I never felt so bad in my life … dealing with a bank. It was handled without professionalism,” said Treñas.

David conveyed his apologies on behalf of the bank in a formal letter he personally delivered to Treñas.

He said the letters were the result of the over-zealousness of the bank officers and that there was no intention to embarrass the mayor.

David also assured Treñas that the incident was an isolated one and that the DBP will continue to be a partner in the city’s other projects and future undertakings.

Treñas accepted the apology of David, who came all the way from Manila and was accompanied by DBP Board Director Miguel Romero.

“I was initially hurt and disappointed by how DBP-Iloilo dealt with the issue, but I appreciate the gesture of Mr. David and Mr. Romero who apologized in person,” Treñas said.

The city government is the largest depositor of DBP among all local government units in the region.

DBP’s David said he personally delivered the letter of apology “to rectify and put things in the right perspective.”

“On behalf of the Board of Directors and myself, I wish to convey my sincerest apologies to you and the City of Iloilo for the extreme inconvenience and embarrassment to your person and to your administration with regard to the letter of (Ibero) on the proposed DBP facility to the city,” said David reading his letter.

He added: “It was never our intention to undermine your authority and your relationship with the members of the Sanggunian Panlungsod. Consequently, given the circumstances, while the DBP Board approved the loan facility in principle, members of the DBP Board in its meeting of 3rd October 2007, denied the confirmation and in fact, withdrew its approval. Instructions were also given to withdraw the letter sent to your good office and the others.”

iloilocitykid

October 5th, 2007, 02:16 PM

New rules for Dinagyang Festival 2008 set

THE Iloilo Dinagyang Foundation, Incorporated (IDFI) will be implementing a new set of policies and guidelines for next year's Dinagyang Festival.

IDFI executive director Benito Jimena said the changes will be adapted for practical and aesthetic reasons.

"We have decided to change some of the rules as we are constantly thinking of ways to ensure that Dinagyang will always be world-class," Jimena stated.

Some of the major changes that the IDFI is expected to apply include the staging of the Ati competition in the afternoon instead of in the morning; and that there will be four instead of five judging areas, Freedom Grandstand, Provincial Capitol at the Bonifacio Drive approach to the Lapuz bridge, Corner Quezon-Ledesma and Maria Clara.

The changes are being done to avoid the long gap between the performance and the declaration of winners than if the competition will be done in the afternoon.

"The judging areas were lessened so that the tribes can give the best performance without getting tired," Jimena also said.

The use of dark brown paint instead of black and the use of dark brown tights will now be allowed; further, only percussion instruments shall be allowed and drums shall be the main instruments, while locally made indigenous percussions may be used.

Jimena stated that performance shall not exceed seven minutes including setting up of props, entrance and exit and a minimum of 48 dancing warriors and 30 drummers per tribe are allowed.

In the determination of winners, the ranking system shall be employed. In case of a tie, the tribe that gets the most number of higher ranks shall be declared the frontrunner.

A separate judging will be done for the street dancing competition and specific areas for street dancing will be designated by the judging committee.

Jimena said all tribes slated to compete will be provided with the new policies for their guidance. (EAM/PIO)

iloilocitykid

October 5th, 2007, 02:19 PM

Consumer education to be integrated in curriculum

Iloilo City - A Memorandum of Agreement was signed between the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) for the integration of the consumer education in the high school curriculum in all public and private schools.
The DepEd press report said the act to strengthen consumer education is aimed at educating the young on their rights and responsibilities as consumers.
“It is necessary that we instill in the minds of our students the laws covering service warranties, complaints, counterfeiting, and even intellectual property so they will know their responsibilities and privileges as consumers,” Education Secretary Jesli Lapus said as he emphasized that the Deped will integrate “consumerism” in social studies, values education, mathematics, science, MAPEH, technical and livelihood education, English and Filipino subjects.
The implementation of the consumer education, the DepEd press report disclosed, is in partnership with the DTI and the National Consumers Affairs Council. It complies with Article 154 Chapter II of the Consumer Welfare Act of the Philippines.
The Consumer Welfare Month is observed every month of October to heighten public awareness on consumer rights and responsibilities.
RA No. 7394 or Consumer Act of the Philippines , was enacted to protect the interests of the consumer from trade malpractices and from substandard or hazardous practices, promote his general welfare and to establish standards of conduct for business and industry.
The Act mandates the government to: a) develop and provide safety and quality standard for consumer products, including performance or use-oriented standard codes of practice and testing methods; b) assist the consumer in evaluating the quality of consumer products, including safety, performance and comparative utility; c) protect the public against unreasonable risks to injury associated with consumer products; and d) undertake research on quality improvement of products and investigation into causes and prevention of product related deaths, illness and injuries.

IAMME

October 5th, 2007, 03:54 PM

Congratulations to UPV's College of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences for topping this year's Fisheries Technologist Board Exam! All nine UPV passers (http://www.upvisayas.net/forum/index.php?topic=117.new#) are in the top ten. :banana:

PRC result (http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/examresults/20071004_FISH10072007.pdf)

eonynx

October 5th, 2007, 05:13 PM

^^ if i'm not mistaken it's the top fishery school in south east asia

chymera00

October 5th, 2007, 05:34 PM

In total income, here's their rank; their respective total income and enclosed in parenthesis is their rank nationwide: 1. Iloilo, P833.344M (23); 2. Bacolod, P701.640M (28); 3. Kabankalan, P444.640M (46); 4. San Carlos, P437.385M (47); 5. Cadiz, P413.695M (55). 6. Sagay, P379.618M (61); 7. Bago, P366.275M (63); 8. Silay, P296.654M (80); 9. Roxas, P294.086M (81); 10. Himamaylan, P269.626M (87); 11. Victorias, P262.139M (88); 12. Passi, P261.664M (89); 13. Sipalay, P251.692M (93); 14. Talisay, P247.93M (94); 15. Escalante, P232.151M (101); and La Carlota, P123.908M (106).
source: http://www.visayandailystar.com/2007/October/05/feedback.htm
continuing further here are statistics for the IRA dependency of WV Cities (ira stats taken from here (http://issuance.dbm.gov.ph:81/issuance/issuance/lbm_2006-49/PCM/VI_PCM.pdf)). Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) dependency measures the dependency of an LGU to the national gov't for funds and its ability (or inability) to generate local income.

Cities in WV (2006 figures)

IRA Dependency

1. Iloilo - 43.3%
2. Bacolod - 60.8%
3. Roxas - 66.8%
4. San Carlos - 67.37%
5. Victorias - 67.47%
6. Sagay - 70.5%
7. Silay - 73.1%
8. Passi - 77.2%
9. Talisay - 78.40%
10. Cadiz - 79.8%
11. Bago - 80.2%
12. Escalante - 82.6%
13. Kabankalan - 86.96%
14. Himamaylan - 92.3%
15. Sipalay - 92.46%

La Carlota - the data doesn't seem to make sense the IRA was P158.844M but the income was lower at P123.908M

Locally Generated Income (Ranked)

1. Iloilo - 473.9M
2. Bacolod - 274.9M
3. San Carlos - 142.6M
4. Sagay - P111.7M
5. Roxas - 97.6M
6. Victorias - 85.2M
7. Cadiz - 83.2M
8. Silay - 79.7M
9. Bago - 72.2M
10. Passi - 59.5M
11. Kabankalan - 58.0M
12. Talisay - 53.5M
13. Escalante - 40.2M
14. Himamaylan - 20.8M
15. Sipalay - 18.97M

click here to learn about how IRA is computed (http://www.newsbreak.com.ph/democracyandgovernance/lgu_iraformula.htm)

What is to be expected for 2007 income of Iloilo City?:

Local taxes to boost city's 2007 income
By Lory Ann B. Bilbao

WITH the projected huge increase in the collection of taxes, the City Government's income is foreseen to reach P1 billion in 2007.

The calculations made by the Committee on appropriations chaired by City Councilor Joe Espinosa III, was noted as a "reasonable probability" by the members of the Local Finance Committee chaired by City Treasurer Katherine Tingson.

Sun.Star Network Online's Christmas Special

Espinosa, together with his members-Councilors Perla Zulueta and Eduardo Peñaredondo estimated that a total of P1,201,200,000 would be the income of the City Government for the whole year of 2007.That is 58.8 percent higher than the 2006 income-P756,043,397.

The Committee, in its report made after a series of budget hearings from November 2 to December 12, showed that the City's revenue would be enhanced by the city's big collections on local taxes.

They estimated that it would increase to 394,820,000 in the whole year of 2007 from only P347,520,000 during the year of 2006.

As shown, collections on business, franchise and real property taxes appeared to then increase next year.

The business taxes collections would rise to P156 million from only P136 million this year.

Next, the collection on franchise taxes from only P25 million into P28.5 million this year.

Then on Real Property Taxes (RPT) from only P11.3 million would rise to P116 million next year.

Also, the collections on permits and licenses showed to be augmenting some more the total revenue of the city. The total estimated collections reached P10.03 million from only P8.285 million this year.

Building permit fees are to mount to P1.7 million from P1.5 million this year. Then, the mayor's permit fees from P1.5 million to also P1.7 million and collections on mechanical fee from P1 million to P1.5 million next year.

Notably, the city's service income on garbage fees, which increase into P22 million next year from P21 million this year, also augments the 2007 income. The total income on city's services fees was however projected to decrease into P32,640,000 from P33,400,000 in 2006. As shown, the tally was affected of the least foreseen fines and penalties in the same services in 2007, which was shown to only amount to P40,000 from the total of P40 million collected fines in 2006.

To add, business income would also help in the increase in the total income. The committee projected that a total of P 27, 360,000 would be collected in 2007 from only P26,745,000 this year.

The City's Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) was reported to increase for 13.3 percent or from P43,456,603 from P326,543,397 in 2006.

Of the P1.2 billion, 45 percent of which or P362, 906,820 will go to Personal Services expenses, under which are expenses for salaries and wages of the employees including other pays, while P424.5 million would go to the city government's programs and projects and the rest for other non-office expenses.

Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ilo/2007/01/01/news/local.taxes.to.boost.city.s.2007.income.html

eonynx

October 5th, 2007, 06:10 PM

^^ regarding the income data, i'm wondering: what if we divide the whole island of panay to two provinces also. then, let's double the size of each town and city so that the incomes of these respective towns and cities would also suddenly shoot up!:lol:

spacewagon1

October 5th, 2007, 10:44 PM

^^ ^^ keep posting all the news for Iloilo, IloiloCityKid. Would love to see all updates and informations. Cheers ! :banana: :banana: :banana:

spacewagon1

October 5th, 2007, 10:51 PM

continuing further here are statistics for the IRA dependency of WV Cities (ira stats taken from here (http://issuance.dbm.gov.ph:81/issuance/issuance/lbm_2006-49/PCM/VI_PCM.pdf)). Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) dependency measures the dependency of an LGU to the national gov't for funds and its ability (or inability) to generate local income.

Cities in WV (2006 figures)

IRA Dependency

1. Iloilo - 43.3%
2. Bacolod - 60.8%
3. Roxas - 66.8%
4. San Carlos - 67.37%
5. Victorias - 67.47%
6. Sagay - 70.5%
7. Silay - 73.1%
8. Passi - 77.2%
9. Talisay - 78.40%
10. Cadiz - 79.8%
11. Bago - 80.2%
12. Escalante - 82.6%
13. Kabankalan - 86.96%
14. Himamaylan - 92.3%
15. Sipalay - 92.46%

La Carlota - the data doesn't seem to make sense the IRA was P158.844M but the income was lower at P123.908M

Locally Generated Income (Ranked)

1. Iloilo - 473.9M
2. Bacolod - 274.9M
3. San Carlos - 142.6M
4. Sagay - P111.7M
5. Roxas - 97.6M
6. Victorias - 85.2M
7. Cadiz - 83.2M
8. Silay - 79.7M
9. Bago - 72.2M
10. Passi - 59.5M
11. Kabankalan - 58.0M
12. Talisay - 53.5M
13. Escalante - 40.2M
14. Himamaylan - 20.8M
15. Sipalay - 18.97M

click here to learn about how IRA is computed (http://www.newsbreak.com.ph/democracyandgovernance/lgu_iraformula.htm)

What is to be expected for 2007 income of Iloilo City?:

Local taxes to boost city's 2007 income
By Lory Ann B. Bilbao

WITH the projected huge increase in the collection of taxes, the City Government's income is foreseen to reach P1 billion in 2007.

The calculations made by the Committee on appropriations chaired by City Councilor Joe Espinosa III, was noted as a "reasonable probability" by the members of the Local Finance Committee chaired by City Treasurer Katherine Tingson.

Sun.Star Network Online's Christmas Special

Espinosa, together with his members-Councilors Perla Zulueta and Eduardo Peñaredondo estimated that a total of P1,201,200,000 would be the income of the City Government for the whole year of 2007.That is 58.8 percent higher than the 2006 income-P756,043,397.

The Committee, in its report made after a series of budget hearings from November 2 to December 12, showed that the City's revenue would be enhanced by the city's big collections on local taxes.

They estimated that it would increase to 394,820,000 in the whole year of 2007 from only P347,520,000 during the year of 2006.

As shown, collections on business, franchise and real property taxes appeared to then increase next year.

The business taxes collections would rise to P156 million from only P136 million this year.

Next, the collection on franchise taxes from only P25 million into P28.5 million this year.

Then on Real Property Taxes (RPT) from only P11.3 million would rise to P116 million next year.

Also, the collections on permits and licenses showed to be augmenting some more the total revenue of the city. The total estimated collections reached P10.03 million from only P8.285 million this year.

Building permit fees are to mount to P1.7 million from P1.5 million this year. Then, the mayor's permit fees from P1.5 million to also P1.7 million and collections on mechanical fee from P1 million to P1.5 million next year.

Notably, the city's service income on garbage fees, which increase into P22 million next year from P21 million this year, also augments the 2007 income. The total income on city's services fees was however projected to decrease into P32,640,000 from P33,400,000 in 2006. As shown, the tally was affected of the least foreseen fines and penalties in the same services in 2007, which was shown to only amount to P40,000 from the total of P40 million collected fines in 2006.

To add, business income would also help in the increase in the total income. The committee projected that a total of P 27, 360,000 would be collected in 2007 from only P26,745,000 this year.

The City's Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) was reported to increase for 13.3 percent or from P43,456,603 from P326,543,397 in 2006.

Of the P1.2 billion, 45 percent of which or P362, 906,820 will go to Personal Services expenses, under which are expenses for salaries and wages of the employees including other pays, while P424.5 million would go to the city government's programs and projects and the rest for other non-office expenses.

Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ilo/2007/01/01/news/local.taxes.to.boost.city.s.2007.income.html

^^ This was 2006's report? Good job for all the cities.

very impressive performance for Iloilo City. The Iloilo province once again lags behind the city's data. Gee. I wonder how Tupas and Suplico will take the news. Although we have a very impressive data (2006), I don't think this will give us the rest to continue in oursuing economic progress and stability in Western Visayas. The city's economy is really performing well and very impressive in all sense. It wil even boost with the presence of Megaworld in few months to come. Congratulations Mayor Trenas and the team for the job well done ! :cheers:

spacewagon1

October 5th, 2007, 10:52 PM

Megaworld moves to
takeover old airport
By DAVID ISRAEL SINAY

ILOILO City – Top executives of a company, to whom the 54-hectare old Iloilo airport property in this city was awarded, have started opening the grounds for the eventual takeover and development of the area bought from the national government for P1.2 billion.

On October 12, officials from Megaworld Corp. and Department of Finance shall sign the sale and purchase documents here, to be witnessed by Mayor Jerry Treñas, Vice Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog, city officials and media.

Megaworld is planning to develop the property into a special economic zone and business district, and transform it into a haven for business process outsourcing (BPO) companies.
Treñas said Iloilo City is the regional and educational center of the region and has many universities, colleges and other tertiary schools with graduates trained to fill the needs of BPO companies.

However, Treñas is also asking Megaworld for at least four amenities for the city. These include an information technology center, a convention center that can hold more than 1,000 participants, a specialized hospital and a theme park.

Treñas said the corporation has seriously considered his proposal of putting up a theme park, convention center and an ICT park.

source: Panay News (http://www.panaynewsphilippines.com/guimaras4.htm)

spacewagon1

October 5th, 2007, 10:52 PM

Banias: Diesel plants out, coal plants in
By Jeehan V. Fernandez

A TOP official of the national government yesterday said diesel plants of state-run National Power Corp. (NPC) will soon bow out when more reliable power sources like coal-fired power plants are established in Panay Island.

Raul Banias, presidential assistant for Panay and Guimaras sees no problem with the entry of coal plants in the island which he says will meet the increasing demand for power supply due to rising economic developments.

Banias, who is former mayor of Concepcion town in northern Iloilo, confirmed that proponent DM Consunji Inc. (DMCI) has secured as of June their Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC).
DMCI has been planning to put up a 100-MW coal facility on a 600-hectare site in Sitio Puntales, Barangay Nipa, some 4.5-km from the town proper.

Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) secretary Angelo Reyes reportedly signed the DMCI’s ECC dated May 27 for a 100-MW circulating fluidized bed (CFB) coal-fired plant.

“Effectively, they (DMCI) have that very important document to proceed with their plans. They are now finalizing their land acquisition and discussing seriously with their supplier for the power plant,” Banias said.

He added that DMCI is now looking at two suppliers from China and India and other countries.

Banias said that DMCI is slated to start the project implementation first quarter of next year.

Asked about the proposed 100-MW coal facility that Global Business Power Corp. (GBPC) plans to put up in Iloilo City, Banias said there’s nothing wrong with the entry of coal plant investors.

“Based on projection on the increasing demand for power, there’s no problem with entry of several investors because NPC and DOE (Department of Energy) projected the demand to reach even more than 200-MW in coming years,” Banias told reporters.

“Primarily, because our diesel now has very prohibitive cost as we view the cost of a barrel went up to about $80 and might even increase during winter. So these diesel power plants of NPC will be retired if there are reliable sources of power put in place,” he explained.

Reacting to environmental and health hazards posed by environmentalists, Banias echoed the observations of city mayor Jerry Treñas who personally checked the safety operations of coal plants during his recent trip to Taiwan.

Treñas had visited at least three coal plants in Taiwan upon the invitation of GBPC and Formosa Heavy Industries Corp. (FHIC).

GBPC with FHIC as technical partner is planning to put up a 100-MW coal plant at the compound of its subsidiary Panay Power Corp. (PPC) in Brgy. Ingore, in La Paz district.

The mayor has seen for himself how coal plants operate right in the heart of the urban center during his study tour to Taiwan.

“It was a very educational tour considering we have fears that need to be answered, thus increased my level of confidence. I will not be the mayor anymore when the coal plant operates but still a resident and we know that power is important in the city,” Treñas pointed out.

“Mayor Treñas’ testimony is one to prove that a coal plant could operate few meters away from a mall,” said Banias who is a doctor by profession as he allayed concerns on the so-called health risks.

“As a doctor, I understand what I am talking about. I don’t want to put the public health at risk. There are allegations of mercury poisoning by a coal plant but there’s no case on that,” Banias earlier told a public hearing.

Banias clarified that private investors won’t waste their money on substandard plants which could face closure by the government.

“We should consider that these proposed coal plants to be put in Iloilo are not government power plants and these are not projects subsidized by the government unlike the previous IPPs (Independent Power Producers),” he said.

Banias stressed: “These are plants to be operated as a ‘merchant plant’ which means that it is privately-owned and they could only operate if they comply with the standards prescribed by government agencies.”

“Meaning that if they will be operated substandardly or if they will be polluting our environment considering we have formed a multipartite monitoring team, then they can always be closed,” he affirmed.

“So it is to the interest of merchant plants to operate at par with the standards set by our government agencies,” Banias declared.

Reacting to environmentalists’ claims on coal hazards, Treñas said other areas in the country including Batangas and Cebu “have seen coal plants.”

“Buhi pa man sila (The residents are still alive). The coal plant in Cebu has been there for the past 40 years. And we have not heard that the rate of cancer or asthma increased,” he asserted.

Iloilo Governor Niel D. Tupas, Sr. has issued endorsement calls for the installation of a coal plant “primarily to address the looming local power shortage by 2010 as forecasted by energy officials.”

The governor noted that Cebu and Luzon have their coal plants already, so why not in Iloilo when the projects are seen to develop the countryside.

“If realized, these are big projects that will create development in Iloilo,” said Tupas stressed.

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

spacewagon1

October 5th, 2007, 10:55 PM

http://www.panaynewsphilippines.com/images07/081307/photofile2.jpg
MEGAWORLD envisions its project to become a magnet for major business process outsourcing (BPO) companies interested to set up shop in the Visayas region. In addition to office buildings for the BPO industry, the project will host educational facilities geared to provide value-added training to equip prospective employees with the necessary skills suited to the requirements of the call centers and other BPO businesses that will be based in the Megaworld project. (www.panaynewsphilippines.com)

Megaworld to start
development of Iloilo property
By LYDIA C. PENDON

ILOILO CITY – The winning bidder of the 54 hectare old Iloilo airport property in this city has started opening the grounds for eventual takeover and development of the area bought from the national government for P1.2 billion.

Megaworld Corp. officials and Department of Finance officials headed by Secretary Margarito Teves and USec John Sevilla will finally sign sale and purchase documents on October 12, 2007 here, to be witnessed by City Mayor Jerry P. Treñas, Vice Mayor Jed Mabilog, the city councilors and media.

Early reports showed that Megaworld is planning to develop the old airport lot into a special economic zone and business district to become a haven for business process outsourcing (BPO) companies interested to invest in Iloilo and the rest of Western Visayas.

Treñas said that Iloilo City is the regional and educational center of the region and has many universities, colleges and other tertiary schools with graduates trained to face the needs of the BPO companies.

However, Treñas is also asking Megaworld for at least four amenities for the city. These include an information technology center, a convention center to house more than 1,000 participants, a specialized hospital and a theme park for relaxation and children fun.

He said that Megaworld officials positively assured him of these amenities. (www.panaynewsphilippines.com)

source: Panay News (http://www.panaynewsphilippines.com/business2.htm)

iloilocitykid

October 6th, 2007, 02:57 AM

^^ :banana: :banana: :banana:

I am so excited!!! First they'll probably develop a commercial building for BPO companies, followed by a hotel, hopefully a 5 star, then a hospital! I wish they'd do business in Smallville as well by making a night mall in the area. :cheers:

iloilocitykid

October 6th, 2007, 02:59 AM

continuing further here are statistics for the IRA dependency of WV Cities (ira stats taken from here (http://issuance.dbm.gov.ph:81/issuance/issuance/lbm_2006-49/PCM/VI_PCM.pdf)). Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) dependency measures the dependency of an LGU to the national gov't for funds and its ability (or inability) to generate local income.

Cities in WV (2006 figures)

IRA Dependency

1. Iloilo - 43.3%
2. Bacolod - 60.8%
3. Roxas - 66.8%
4. San Carlos - 67.37%
5. Victorias - 67.47%
6. Sagay - 70.5%
7. Silay - 73.1%
8. Passi - 77.2%
9. Talisay - 78.40%
10. Cadiz - 79.8%
11. Bago - 80.2%
12. Escalante - 82.6%
13. Kabankalan - 86.96%
14. Himamaylan - 92.3%
15. Sipalay - 92.46%

La Carlota - the data doesn't seem to make sense the IRA was P158.844M but the income was lower at P123.908M

Locally Generated Income (Ranked)

1. Iloilo - 473.9M
2. Bacolod - 274.9M
3. San Carlos - 142.6M
4. Sagay - P111.7M
5. Roxas - 97.6M
6. Victorias - 85.2M
7. Cadiz - 83.2M
8. Silay - 79.7M
9. Bago - 72.2M
10. Passi - 59.5M
11. Kabankalan - 58.0M
12. Talisay - 53.5M
13. Escalante - 40.2M
14. Himamaylan - 20.8M
15. Sipalay - 18.97M

click here to learn about how IRA is computed (http://www.newsbreak.com.ph/democracyandgovernance/lgu_iraformula.htm)

What is to be expected for 2007 income of Iloilo City?:

Local taxes to boost city's 2007 income
By Lory Ann B. Bilbao

WITH the projected huge increase in the collection of taxes, the City Government's income is foreseen to reach P1 billion in 2007.

The calculations made by the Committee on appropriations chaired by City Councilor Joe Espinosa III, was noted as a "reasonable probability" by the members of the Local Finance Committee chaired by City Treasurer Katherine Tingson.

Sun.Star Network Online's Christmas Special

Espinosa, together with his members-Councilors Perla Zulueta and Eduardo Peñaredondo estimated that a total of P1,201,200,000 would be the income of the City Government for the whole year of 2007.That is 58.8 percent higher than the 2006 income-P756,043,397.

The Committee, in its report made after a series of budget hearings from November 2 to December 12, showed that the City's revenue would be enhanced by the city's big collections on local taxes.

They estimated that it would increase to 394,820,000 in the whole year of 2007 from only P347,520,000 during the year of 2006.

As shown, collections on business, franchise and real property taxes appeared to then increase next year.

The business taxes collections would rise to P156 million from only P136 million this year.

Next, the collection on franchise taxes from only P25 million into P28.5 million this year.

Then on Real Property Taxes (RPT) from only P11.3 million would rise to P116 million next year.

Also, the collections on permits and licenses showed to be augmenting some more the total revenue of the city. The total estimated collections reached P10.03 million from only P8.285 million this year.

Building permit fees are to mount to P1.7 million from P1.5 million this year. Then, the mayor's permit fees from P1.5 million to also P1.7 million and collections on mechanical fee from P1 million to P1.5 million next year.

Notably, the city's service income on garbage fees, which increase into P22 million next year from P21 million this year, also augments the 2007 income. The total income on city's services fees was however projected to decrease into P32,640,000 from P33,400,000 in 2006. As shown, the tally was affected of the least foreseen fines and penalties in the same services in 2007, which was shown to only amount to P40,000 from the total of P40 million collected fines in 2006.

To add, business income would also help in the increase in the total income. The committee projected that a total of P 27, 360,000 would be collected in 2007 from only P26,745,000 this year.

The City's Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) was reported to increase for 13.3 percent or from P43,456,603 from P326,543,397 in 2006.

Of the P1.2 billion, 45 percent of which or P362, 906,820 will go to Personal Services expenses, under which are expenses for salaries and wages of the employees including other pays, while P424.5 million would go to the city government's programs and projects and the rest for other non-office expenses.

Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ilo/2007/01/01/news/local.taxes.to.boost.city.s.2007.income.html

This means Iloilo City is the most independent and self standing city in the region. The figures speak for themselves! :cheers:
Bravo to all!
MIGEDC and all the good officials of the metro area have really proved to be very great in the efforts!

eonynx

October 6th, 2007, 05:47 AM

whyte

October 6th, 2007, 06:02 AM

ang road dira sa CPU dapat one way na lang ina tani, CPU should develop the back of the UC as another main entrance to the University. i really dunno how we can fix this problem in our congested city.

i dont think CPU will shell out money to develop that gate, even though it has become an alternative "gateway" unlike before.besides it will reason out that it is not part of its property. :nuts:

whyte

October 6th, 2007, 06:09 AM

^^Wow, hope this is a good news for the Laborers in Passi Sugar Central.

So confirmned na ginbakal na ni Gokongwei ang Passi Sugar Central

^^ Bag-o lang ko kabati sining balita. Daw waay gid ni nachismis sang pagpuli ko. An uncle is working there for more than 20 years but he has not mentioned anything about this take-over 5 months ago when I went home.

Nevertheless, this is great news. Gogongwei's acquisition of PSC could mean future commercial and residential developments in Passi as well. I hope they will also try to venture in food processing someday, taking advantage of the abundance of pineapples in Passi.

yup.this october will be the last month of the "old" passi sugar central employees

good news indeed in terms of development in passi.if im not mistaken a "small" robinsons mall is also expected to rise.

but i doubt if it is good for the employees of pass sugar since the gokongwei's have these "anti labor " tendencies.and ive heard that most jobs will be on a contractual basis.it'll never be teh same again.

birdfluuu

October 6th, 2007, 07:07 AM

lewdsaint

October 6th, 2007, 07:07 AM

Chy, salamat kay waay ka nang-hilite kag nagpadaku sang font sa mga data. Iban nga mga forumer diri sobra gid mag-hilite kag magpadako sang font, matyag mo daw ginanunu gid sa imo ang data. Pwede mo lang i-hilite with the same size of font para manotice, di bala?

Dudlay magpatayug-tayug ihi ah! hehehe!

Ang maigu react lang kay balbalun ko!

continuing further here are statistics for the IRA dependency of WV Cities (ira stats taken from here (http://issuance.dbm.gov.ph:81/issuance/issuance/lbm_2006-49/PCM/VI_PCM.pdf)). Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) dependency measures the dependency of an LGU to the national gov't for funds and its ability (or inability) to generate local income.

Cities in WV (2006 figures)

IRA Dependency

1. Iloilo - 43.3%
2. Bacolod - 60.8%
3. Roxas - 66.8%
4. San Carlos - 67.37%
5. Victorias - 67.47%
6. Sagay - 70.5%
7. Silay - 73.1%
8. Passi - 77.2%
9. Talisay - 78.40%
10. Cadiz - 79.8%
11. Bago - 80.2%
12. Escalante - 82.6%
13. Kabankalan - 86.96%
14. Himamaylan - 92.3%
15. Sipalay - 92.46%

La Carlota - the data doesn't seem to make sense the IRA was P158.844M but the income was lower at P123.908M

Locally Generated Income (Ranked)

1. Iloilo - 473.9M
2. Bacolod - 274.9M
3. San Carlos - 142.6M
4. Sagay - P111.7M
5. Roxas - 97.6M
6. Victorias - 85.2M
7. Cadiz - 83.2M
8. Silay - 79.7M
9. Bago - 72.2M
10. Passi - 59.5M
11. Kabankalan - 58.0M
12. Talisay - 53.5M
13. Escalante - 40.2M
14. Himamaylan - 20.8M
15. Sipalay - 18.97M

click here to learn about how IRA is computed (http://www.newsbreak.com.ph/democracyandgovernance/lgu_iraformula.htm)

What is to be expected for 2007 income of Iloilo City?:

Local taxes to boost city's 2007 income
By Lory Ann B. Bilbao

WITH the projected huge increase in the collection of taxes, the City Government's income is foreseen to reach P1 billion in 2007.

The calculations made by the Committee on appropriations chaired by City Councilor Joe Espinosa III, was noted as a "reasonable probability" by the members of the Local Finance Committee chaired by City Treasurer Katherine Tingson.

Sun.Star Network Online's Christmas Special

Espinosa, together with his members-Councilors Perla Zulueta and Eduardo Peñaredondo estimated that a total of P1,201,200,000 would be the income of the City Government for the whole year of 2007.That is 58.8 percent higher than the 2006 income-P756,043,397.

The Committee, in its report made after a series of budget hearings from November 2 to December 12, showed that the City's revenue would be enhanced by the city's big collections on local taxes.

They estimated that it would increase to 394,820,000 in the whole year of 2007 from only P347,520,000 during the year of 2006.

As shown, collections on business, franchise and real property taxes appeared to then increase next year.

The business taxes collections would rise to P156 million from only P136 million this year.

Next, the collection on franchise taxes from only P25 million into P28.5 million this year.

Then on Real Property Taxes (RPT) from only P11.3 million would rise to P116 million next year.

Also, the collections on permits and licenses showed to be augmenting some more the total revenue of the city. The total estimated collections reached P10.03 million from only P8.285 million this year.

Building permit fees are to mount to P1.7 million from P1.5 million this year. Then, the mayor's permit fees from P1.5 million to also P1.7 million and collections on mechanical fee from P1 million to P1.5 million next year.

Notably, the city's service income on garbage fees, which increase into P22 million next year from P21 million this year, also augments the 2007 income. The total income on city's services fees was however projected to decrease into P32,640,000 from P33,400,000 in 2006. As shown, the tally was affected of the least foreseen fines and penalties in the same services in 2007, which was shown to only amount to P40,000 from the total of P40 million collected fines in 2006.

To add, business income would also help in the increase in the total income. The committee projected that a total of P 27, 360,000 would be collected in 2007 from only P26,745,000 this year.

The City's Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) was reported to increase for 13.3 percent or from P43,456,603 from P326,543,397 in 2006.

Of the P1.2 billion, 45 percent of which or P362, 906,820 will go to Personal Services expenses, under which are expenses for salaries and wages of the employees including other pays, while P424.5 million would go to the city government's programs and projects and the rest for other non-office expenses.

Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ilo/2007/01/01/news/local.taxes.to.boost.city.s.2007.income.html

toluene

October 6th, 2007, 07:37 AM

whyte

October 6th, 2007, 07:38 AM

:wave: lewdsaint

:lol: indi na ako magreact :D

ma highlight lang :lol:

Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) dependency measures the dependency of an LGU to the national gov't for funds and its ability (or inability) to generate local income.

whyte

October 6th, 2007, 07:43 AM

I thought it is better to be less dependent on the IRA for it means that a city has "enough" of internally generated revenues,etc., to be dependent on the national government's "share" of resources. i don't know, for me being less dependent from the IRA means progress. and yes, i think, i have read somewhere that iloilo city's IRA was slashed to add funds to the newly added cities...

:) :) :)

yup. thats right.the less dependent the more self supporting/sufficient a city is.

daw bata bala kag nanay.
sang wala ka pa obra halos 100% dependent ka sa nanay mo pero sang may obra/source of income ka na naga amat amat gamay ang dependence mo until fully independent ka na sa iya.
kon naga damo ang bata sang nanay kag wala nagasugang iya ang sweldo significantly, in the long run naga gamay ang allotment sa kada bata.

by the way, HIGH PERCENTAGE stat and/or being RANKED NUMBER 1 don't always mean POSITIVE

METROPOLITAN_ILOILO

October 6th, 2007, 07:47 AM

Hmmmm curious lang ako.daw naga libog gid ulo ko(total savings,net income,total income etc).:lol:ibig mo sabihin Sipalay was the highest Internal revenue earner in WV? wow i think Sipalays taxpayers’ significant contribution helped earn for the City.So bumaba ang IRA ng ILoilo?:ohno: Economic growth in Sipalay and Kabankalan has had an enormous, positive effect and Sipalay is attractive in many ways.:banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :dance:

nope, its the complete OPPOSITE... IRA means in simple term kung ikaw estudyante amo na allowance mo. The higher IRA means you are very dependent for your BUDGET and SUSTAINABILITY... also it could mean a lot of things is being SUBSIDIZED by Government. Or also if the city has low earnings it has to get the BUDGET elsewhere like in this case through IRA (Internal ALLOTment Revenue)

SO LOWER IRA means you have more income to facilitate your daily/weekly "gastusin" or OPERATIONAL COST.... or it could translate to being more progressive... cause you are LESS DEPENDENT for your needs.

kung sa aton pa nga halambalon... taas IRA meaning salaguron pa, kung nubo na IRA or wala na pwede ka na mag on your OWN... Just like QC... wala na sila need for IRA kay dako ila earnings. Clear? I hope di na maglibog ulo mo Bird.

FYI :)

whyte

October 6th, 2007, 08:00 AM

re: FLYOVER

Im sure by Dinagyang human na ina sya :lol:

daks2003

October 6th, 2007, 08:17 AM

Don't worry about Iloilo City's low dependency on the IRA :) We will be alarmed if we found out that we are 60% dependent on the IRA :lol: :lol: :lol:

Hmmmm curious lang ako.daw naga libog gid ulo ko(total savings,net income,total income etc).:lol:ibig mo sabihin Sipalay was the highest Internal revenue earner in WV? wow i think Sipalays taxpayers’ significant contribution helped earn for the City.So bumaba ang IRA ng ILoilo?:ohno: Economic growth in Sipalay and Kabankalan has had an enormous, positive effect and Sipalay is attractive in many ways.:banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :dance:

COLLIN JASPER

October 6th, 2007, 08:20 AM

continuing further here are statistics for the IRA dependency of WV Cities (ira stats taken from here (http://issuance.dbm.gov.ph:81/issuance/issuance/lbm_2006-49/PCM/VI_PCM.pdf)). Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) dependency measures the dependency of an LGU to the national gov't for funds and its ability (or inability) to generate local income.

Cities in WV (2006 figures)

IRA Dependency

1. Iloilo - 43.3%
2. Bacolod - 60.8%
3. Roxas - 66.8%
4. San Carlos - 67.37%
5. Victorias - 67.47%
6. Sagay - 70.5%
7. Silay - 73.1%
8. Passi - 77.2%
9. Talisay - 78.40%
10. Cadiz - 79.8%
11. Bago - 80.2%
12. Escalante - 82.6%
13. Kabankalan - 86.96%
14. Himamaylan - 92.3%
15. Sipalay - 92.46%

La Carlota - the data doesn't seem to make sense the IRA was P158.844M but the income was lower at P123.908M

Locally Generated Income (Ranked)

1. Iloilo - 473.9M
2. Bacolod - 274.9M
3. San Carlos - 142.6M
4. Sagay - P111.7M
5. Roxas - 97.6M
6. Victorias - 85.2M
7. Cadiz - 83.2M
8. Silay - 79.7M
9. Bago - 72.2M
10. Passi - 59.5M
11. Kabankalan - 58.0M
12. Talisay - 53.5M
13. Escalante - 40.2M
14. Himamaylan - 20.8M
15. Sipalay - 18.97M

click here to learn about how IRA is computed (http://www.newsbreak.com.ph/democracyandgovernance/lgu_iraformula.htm)

What is to be expected for 2007 income of Iloilo City?:

Local taxes to boost city's 2007 income
By Lory Ann B. Bilbao

WITH the projected huge increase in the collection of taxes, the City Government's income is foreseen to reach P1 billion in 2007.

The calculations made by the Committee on appropriations chaired by City Councilor Joe Espinosa III, was noted as a "reasonable probability" by the members of the Local Finance Committee chaired by City Treasurer Katherine Tingson.

Sun.Star Network Online's Christmas Special

Espinosa, together with his members-Councilors Perla Zulueta and Eduardo Peñaredondo estimated that a total of P1,201,200,000 would be the income of the City Government for the whole year of 2007.That is 58.8 percent higher than the 2006 income-P756,043,397.

The Committee, in its report made after a series of budget hearings from November 2 to December 12, showed that the City's revenue would be enhanced by the city's big collections on local taxes.

They estimated that it would increase to 394,820,000 in the whole year of 2007 from only P347,520,000 during the year of 2006.

As shown, collections on business, franchise and real property taxes appeared to then increase next year.

The business taxes collections would rise to P156 million from only P136 million this year.

Next, the collection on franchise taxes from only P25 million into P28.5 million this year.

Then on Real Property Taxes (RPT) from only P11.3 million would rise to P116 million next year.

Also, the collections on permits and licenses showed to be augmenting some more the total revenue of the city. The total estimated collections reached P10.03 million from only P8.285 million this year.

Building permit fees are to mount to P1.7 million from P1.5 million this year. Then, the mayor's permit fees from P1.5 million to also P1.7 million and collections on mechanical fee from P1 million to P1.5 million next year.

Notably, the city's service income on garbage fees, which increase into P22 million next year from P21 million this year, also augments the 2007 income. The total income on city's services fees was however projected to decrease into P32,640,000 from P33,400,000 in 2006. As shown, the tally was affected of the least foreseen fines and penalties in the same services in 2007, which was shown to only amount to P40,000 from the total of P40 million collected fines in 2006.

To add, business income would also help in the increase in the total income. The committee projected that a total of P 27, 360,000 would be collected in 2007 from only P26,745,000 this year.

The City's Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) was reported to increase for 13.3 percent or from P43,456,603 from P326,543,397 in 2006.

Of the P1.2 billion, 45 percent of which or P362, 906,820 will go to Personal Services expenses, under which are expenses for salaries and wages of the employees including other pays, while P424.5 million would go to the city government's programs and projects and the rest for other non-office expenses.

Source: http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/ilo/2007/01/01/news/local.taxes.to.boost.city.s.2007.income.html

Good News! Tama ka Lewd inde na naton kinahanglan mag hilite pa hehehe. this is the truth kag inde tinikal. HALA BIRA ILOILO:banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana:

COLLIN JASPER

October 6th, 2007, 08:23 AM

The figure 1 billion nga income para sa Iloilo for the year 2007 is a positive sign that Iloilo city is progressing. Basi ma double pa ina sya by 2008-2009. Multi billion project of Megaworld inde ina impossible.

COLLIN JASPER

October 6th, 2007, 08:25 AM

May Surprise News si Bernie sa mga forumers regarding the future status of NIA International flights. Bernie ikaw na mag post.

METROPOLITAN_ILOILO

October 6th, 2007, 08:29 AM

METROPOLITAN_ILOILO

October 6th, 2007, 08:30 AM

May Surprise News si Bernie sa mga forumers regarding the future status of NIA International flights. Bernie ikaw na mag post.

hehehe guess ko lang chartered flight from either Korea or Japan hehe:lol:

whyte

October 6th, 2007, 08:32 AM

may secret naman si bernie? :bash:

I would say 2008 would start the BOOM in the Iloilo economy with almost all of the major projects in place ( ESP ang flyover ni mayor trenas HAHAHAHAHAHAHA)

hopefully they wont neglect the infrastructures (no matter how simple thye may be) that make the backbone of any economy. transportation, power, services,etc

mention ko gid liwat ang ROADS.

whyte

October 6th, 2007, 08:34 AM

hehehe guess ko lang chartered flight from either Korea or Japan hehe:lol:

ako man maguess.....

flights from the NEW BACOLOD-SILAY AIRPORT and vice versa
:lol::lol::lol::lol::lol:

pwede man halin sa mandurriao airport :D

whyte

October 6th, 2007, 08:43 AM

daks2003

October 6th, 2007, 08:48 AM

That means...you don't need to be a "city" just to earn that much. Personal assessment ko lang ni ha...I think, Kalibo, which technically is not a city, has a more "City-Like" feel than some of the cities in WV...personal observation ko lang ni ha :lol:

Locally Generated Income (Ranked)

1. Iloilo - 473.9M
2. Bacolod - 274.9M
3. San Carlos - 142.6M
4. Sagay - P111.7M
5. Roxas - 97.6M
6. Victorias - 85.2M
7. Cadiz - 83.2M
8. Silay - 79.7M
9. Bago - 72.2M
10. Passi - 59.5M
11. Kabankalan - 58.0M
12. Talisay - 53.5M
13. Escalante - 40.2M
14. Himamaylan - 20.8M
15. Sipalay - 18.97M

Is this not a typo? I mean based on this it means that my town (San Miguel) considered with one of the lowest income in ILOILO Province for 2005 with income of P26,854,500.00 (no data for 2006) mas taas pa sa Himamaylan kag Sipalay?

Kag kagamay lang sang amon banwa... gamay pa sa Pavia...

daks2003

October 6th, 2007, 08:48 AM

SI BERNIE ANG PILOT sa first INTERNATION FLIGHT sa ILOILO????? :banana: :banana: :banana:

May Surprise News si Bernie sa mga forumers regarding the future status of NIA International flights. Bernie ikaw na mag post.

whyte

October 6th, 2007, 09:02 AM

^^^

:shocked:

maRORO na lang ako anay ah

:lol:

Farirah

October 6th, 2007, 09:07 AM

Good economic growth for Iloilo! I have found out now that many mid-sized cities now have gained more than billion income aside of Philippines' metropolitan cities.

chymera00

October 6th, 2007, 10:58 AM

Locally Generated Income (Ranked)

1. Iloilo - 473.9M
2. Bacolod - 274.9M
3. San Carlos - 142.6M
4. Sagay - P111.7M
5. Roxas - 97.6M
6. Victorias - 85.2M
7. Cadiz - 83.2M
8. Silay - 79.7M
9. Bago - 72.2M
10. Passi - 59.5M
11. Kabankalan - 58.0M
12. Talisay - 53.5M
13. Escalante - 40.2M
14. Himamaylan - 20.8M
15. Sipalay - 18.97M

Is this not a typo? I mean based on this it means that my town (San Miguel) considered with one of the lowest income in ILOILO Province for 2005 with income of P26,854,500.00 (no data for 2006) mas taas pa sa Himamaylan kag Sipalay?

Kag kagamay lang sang amon banwa... gamay pa sa Pavia...
Yep, that's accdng to official data. The Municipality of Pavia has more or less the same amount of locally generated income than these two cities despite that Pavia cannot raise tax rates (in a level that cities enjoy) and is a lot smaller in terms of population (approx. more than 3x smaller) and land area (approx. more than 18x smaller). Despite generating the same local income, Pavia's total income (inc. IRA) is just 4x smaller because municipalities get a much lower IRA and because the amount of local income a town/city generates is not a factor in computing IRA.

Good economic growth for Iloilo! I have found out now that many mid-sized cities now have gained more than billion income aside of Philippines' metropolitan cities.
Yeah, Iloilo and Bacolod are just new comers in the so called "Billionaires"club. A lot of mid-sized cities like Puerto Prinsesa, Cagayan de Oro, and Zamboanga have been having more than billion income.
yup. thats right.the less dependent the more self supporting/sufficient a city is.

daw bata bala kag nanay.
sang wala ka pa obra halos 100% dependent ka sa nanay mo pero sang may obra/source of income ka na naga amat amat gamay ang dependence mo until fully independent ka na sa iya.
kon naga damo ang bata sang nanay kag wala nagasugang iya ang sweldo significantly, in the long run naga gamay ang allotment sa kada bata.

by the way, HIGH PERCENTAGE stat and/or being RANKED NUMBER 1 don't always mean POSITIVE
I agree, we should consider first more factors before making conclusions about stats.

zhock2001

October 6th, 2007, 01:39 PM

direct flight from manduarriao to sta.barbara ina??? cool!

IAMME

October 6th, 2007, 02:43 PM

Found this in a website, I don't know how reliable it is. Interesting though.

Check out which festival our users have chosen as their favourites!

Ati-Atihan (http://worldparty.roughguides.com/festival/default.aspx?festid=171): 39.07%
Dinagyang (http://worldparty.roughguides.com/festival/default.aspx?festid=202): 11.08%
Common Ridings (http://worldparty.roughguides.com/festival/default.aspx?festid=5): 9.36%
Burning Man (http://worldparty.roughguides.com/festival/default.aspx?festid=20): 8.14%
Calgary Stampede (http://worldparty.roughguides.com/festival/default.aspx?festid=111): 6.76%
Las Fallas (http://worldparty.roughguides.com/festival/default.aspx?festid=4): 5.16%
Glastonbury Festival (http://worldparty.roughguides.com/festival/default.aspx?festid=8): 1.68%
Fiesta de San Fermin (http://worldparty.roughguides.com/festival/default.aspx?festid=6): 1.38%
Diwali (http://worldparty.roughguides.com/festival/default.aspx?festid=203): 1.26%
Full Moon Party (http://worldparty.roughguides.com/festival/default.aspx?festid=174): 1.09%
Trinidad Carnival (http://worldparty.roughguides.com/festival/default.aspx?festid=30): 1.05%
Rio Carnival (http://worldparty.roughguides.com/festival/default.aspx?festid=29): 1.05%
Holi (http://worldparty.roughguides.com/festival/default.aspx?festid=180): 0.84%
Oktoberfest (http://worldparty.roughguides.com/festival/default.aspx?festid=15): 0.67%
Ibiza Closing Parties (http://worldparty.roughguides.com/festival/default.aspx?festid=2): 0.63%
Sydney Festival (http://worldparty.roughguides.com/festival/default.aspx?festid=168): 0.55%
Edinburgh Festival (http://worldparty.roughguides.com/festival/default.aspx?festid=52): 0.55%
Fantasy Fest (http://worldparty.roughguides.com/festival/default.aspx?festid=23): 0.5%
Aloha Festivals (http://worldparty.roughguides.com/festival/default.aspx?festid=103): 0.42%
Queenstown Winter Festival (http://worldparty.roughguides.com/festival/default.aspx?festid=167): 0.38%
Mardi Gras (http://worldparty.roughguides.com/festival/default.aspx?festid=27): 0.34%
La Tomatina (http://worldparty.roughguides.com/festival/default.aspx?festid=3): 0.34%
St. Patrick's Day (http://worldparty.roughguides.com/festival/default.aspx?festid=17): 0.29%
Queen's Day (http://worldparty.roughguides.com/festival/default.aspx?festid=16): 0.29%
Vogel Gryff (http://worldparty.roughguides.com/festival/default.aspx?festid=97): 0.25%

http://worldparty.roughguides.com/festival/voteresult.as (http://worldparty.roughguides.com/festival/voteresult.aspx)px (http://worldparty.roughguides.com/festival/voteresult.aspx)

iloilocitykid

October 6th, 2007, 02:47 PM

^^

Dinagyang!!! :banana:
You're right, we don't know how reliable it is but it surely can give us a little sumthing to be happy of adding to the fact that Dinagyang is quite popular and chosen by that cultural council as the best festival. :banana:

Excited for next year! :cheers:

eonynx

October 6th, 2007, 03:14 PM

SI BERNIE ANG PILOT sa first INTERNATION FLIGHT sa ILOILO????? :banana: :banana: :banana:

ma apply ko steward!:banana:

spacewagon1

October 6th, 2007, 04:11 PM

these figures are for cities only :)

Locally Generated Income (Ranked)

1. Iloilo - 473.9M
2. Bacolod - 274.9M
3. San Carlos - 142.6M
4. Sagay - P111.7M
5. Roxas - 97.6M
6. Victorias - 85.2M
7. Cadiz - 83.2M
8. Silay - 79.7M
9. Bago - 72.2M
10. Passi - 59.5M
11. Kabankalan - 58.0M
12. Talisay - 53.5M
13. Escalante - 40.2M
14. Himamaylan - 20.8M
15. Sipalay - 18.97M

Is this not a typo? I mean based on this it means that my town (San Miguel) considered with one of the lowest income in ILOILO Province for 2005 with income of P26,854,500.00 (no data for 2006) mas taas pa sa Himamaylan kag Sipalay?

Kag kagamay lang sang amon banwa... gamay pa sa Pavia...
he he. That's why it should never be a city in the first place. Kalibo and other major towns of Panay can even double or triple the income those two cities are having.

I'm really glad that Iloilo City is way far when it comes to locally generated income. This means that the city is doing creating money for itself in such humungous amount. This is really impressive. I hope next year, Iloilo City will raise their generated income to 600 million. This is a viable forecast due to rising economic activities ongoing in the city right now.

Don't worry about Iloilo City's low dependency on the IRA :) We will be alarmed if we found out that we are 60% dependent on the IRA :lol: :lol: :lol:
we should actually make move to help te city even lower the IRA dependency to 30% or less. Meaning, we don't need the national government aid to raise our income. This should really be encouraged. I do not know how the city will do this but I'm positive that we are in right direction. We already passed below the 50% mark. For a mjor city, this is a very good sign already.

Iloilo City will remain the region's premiere city from all the indicators listed above. And I could not believe how good we did it to rise from the ashes of the past. Go Iloilo !

iloilocitykid

October 6th, 2007, 04:16 PM

^^ You're right.

Why add more cities when they all look like towns where instead we can not have more cities but improve the current ones.

Ayus Migs Space!

spacewagon1

October 6th, 2007, 04:22 PM

direct flight from manduarriao to sta.barbara ina??? cool!

^^^

:shocked:

maRORO na lang ako anay ah

:lol:

SI BERNIE ANG PILOT sa first INTERNATION FLIGHT sa ILOILO????? :banana: :banana: :banana:
he he. Nano man? I guess it's between Mandurriao to Sta Barbara flights. he he. Mas feasible siya tan-awon. he he.

Btw, may ara gid man nga plano sang international flights to Iloilo as early as now? he he. This could be another great start for Iloilo's rising economy.

I thought it is better to be less dependent on the IRA for it means that a city has "enough" of internally generated revenues,etc., to be dependent on the national government's "share" of resources. i don't know, for me being less dependent from the IRA means progress. and yes, i think, i have read somewhere that iloilo city's IRA was slashed to add funds to the newly added cities...

:) :) :)

:wave: lewdsaint

:lol: indi na ako magreact :D

ma highlight lang :lol:

Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) dependency measures the dependency of an LGU to the national gov't for funds and its ability (or inability) to generate local income.

yup. thats right.the less dependent the more self supporting/sufficient a city is.

daw bata bala kag nanay.
sang wala ka pa obra halos 100% dependent ka sa nanay mo pero sang may obra/source of income ka na naga amat amat gamay ang dependence mo until fully independent ka na sa iya.
kon naga damo ang bata sang nanay kag wala nagasugang iya ang sweldo significantly, in the long run naga gamay ang allotment sa kada bata.

by the way, HIGH PERCENTAGE stat and/or being RANKED NUMBER 1 don't always mean POSITIVE

nope, its the complete OPPOSITE... IRA means in simple term kung ikaw estudyante amo na allowance mo. The higher IRA means you are very dependent for your BUDGET and SUSTAINABILITY... also it could mean a lot of things is being SUBSIDIZED by Government. Or also if the city has low earnings it has to get the BUDGET elsewhere like in this case through IRA (Internal ALLOTment Revenue)

SO LOWER IRA means you have more income to facilitate your daily/weekly "gastusin" or OPERATIONAL COST.... or it could translate to being more progressive... cause you are LESS DEPENDENT for your needs.

kung sa aton pa nga halambalon... taas IRA meaning salaguron pa, kung nubo na IRA or wala na pwede ka na mag on your OWN... Just like QC... wala na sila need for IRA kay dako ila earnings. Clear? I hope di na maglibog ulo mo Bird.

FYI :)
I'm glad we, Ilonggos, tried to summon all the data first and analyse them before posting. The analytical interpretation of the data is very important to all of us. This may indicate less, but it's something that is why we really need to be careful in interpretation.

There has been a big improvemnt in Iloilo City lately as shown in these data. First, we are becoming less and less IRA dependency. To become a premiere city, Iloilo City needs to lower its IRA dependency. 40+ something % is still high and we still have a lot of things to do. If we can lower it down further reaching to 20-30 % mas maayo pa gid. The data is ego-boosting and inspiring. We really pulling ourselves together to pave for a better future.

Next, is the rising of the locally generated income. Somehow, this data is entertwined with low IRA dependency. Iloilo City is earning something for itself. If we look at it, our difference from the second city is way too big considering that our land area in the city is only 70sq km yet we managed to produce this big amount. A 473 million locally generated income alone is very impressive statistic. And again, I hope we can raise it to 600 or even double it. However, this is a very challenging forecast for Iloilo City but reasonable. It ight not be reached by next year, but hopefully in three years' time.

Good News! Tama ka Lewd inde na naton kinahanglan mag hilite pa hehehe. this is the truth kag inde tinikal. HALA BIRA ILOILO:banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana:

Tinikal is different. Problem with tinikal is they don't have the back up facts to support tem. However, good the tikal is, I don't think it can affect us in Iloilo. We're surely being challenged that's why we are performing well. We don't rest in our laurels and we don't have nightmares to share in a daytime. he he

spacewagon1

October 6th, 2007, 04:38 PM

That means...you don't need to be a "city" just to earn that much. Personal assessment ko lang ni ha...I think, Kalibo, which technically is not a city, has a more "City-Like" feel than some of the cities in WV...personal observation ko lang ni ha :lol:
you're assessment is very true, Daks. Kalibo earns more than 4 times this small cities in WV doing right now. And it's a shame that Kalibo never even qualify for a city. The ambience of Kalibo is ore cosmopilitan than other cities ranked here. I wonder how they make these places to become a city. It cannot even qualify to become one in the recent stats. Pototan has bigger income. Even Metropolitan_Iloilo is right that San Miguel, the smallest town in MIGEDC has higher income yet San Miguel never even bother to apply for cityhood. I think it goes with the mentality. he he.

Locally Generated Income (Ranked)

1. Iloilo - 473.9M
2. Bacolod - 274.9M
3. San Carlos - 142.6M
4. Sagay - P111.7M
5. Roxas - 97.6M
6. Victorias - 85.2M
7. Cadiz - 83.2M
8. Silay - 79.7M
9. Bago - 72.2M
10. Passi - 59.5M
11. Kabankalan - 58.0M
12. Talisay - 53.5M
13. Escalante - 40.2M
14. Himamaylan - 20.8M
15. Sipalay - 18.97M

Is this not a typo? I mean based on this it means that my town (San Miguel) considered with one of the lowest income in ILOILO Province for 2005 with income of P26,854,500.00 (no data for 2006) mas taas pa sa Himamaylan kag Sipalay?

Kag kagamay lang sang amon banwa... gamay pa sa Pavia...
he he. You hit the nail right at its head. It's funny how they perform. It's kinda amusing since I'm thinking that stats wise we're really that close to have the competition. Only to come up to the point that we're way too far. he he. I'm glad for Trenas performance and to the rest. I thnk Mabilog will even boost the city's status once he sits as a mayor in three years time. He's a working mayor man siguro and I think the city is heading in all right directions. Let's just be vigilant na lang.

The figure 1 billion nga income para sa Iloilo for the year 2007 is a positive sign that Iloilo city is progressing. Basi ma double pa ina sya by 2008-2009. Multi billion project of Megaworld inde ina impossible.
we have a 1.2 billion budget last year in the city. I don't know if this could be raise even more as more data comes. To think the new businesses is cropping up in every corners of the city is already a good indication. The Megaworld buying the old airport property is another big boost for the city, that can even double the income we are having right now.

Yeah, Iloilo and Bacolod are just new comers in the so called "Billionaires"club. A lot of mid-sized cities like Puerto Prinsesa, Cagayan de Oro, and Zamboanga have been having more than billion income.

I agree, we should consider first more factors before making conclusions about stats.
I don't know if Bacold is already in Billionaires Club. All I now is they still working for it this year to reach a billion mark. How I wish they'll get it so two cities in the region will be in the billionaires club already. We need to boost every city's economy in the region to maintain a good regional economic flow. In as much as we want to be indpendent and stands out for the best, Iloilo City needs bacolod City to further boost the region's economic status. These two major cities in the region are the pillars of our economy. With Bacolod taking good steps, the effect will be great for Iloilo City, too and vice versa. The rest is Domino effect across the region.

Also, I want to emphasize the MIGEDC/MIG collaboration. This is the region's major development body that will further boost the region's economy.At present, MIG is not saturated yet but we are slowly getting there. As you see, movement of goods, exchanges and housing across MIG is definitely on the upswing. We will see then the rise of Pavia, Oton, Leganes, San Miguel and Sta Barbara in few years time. The economy of Metro Iloilo is vital to its development now.

spacewagon1

October 6th, 2007, 05:04 PM

Found this in a website, I don't know how reliable it is. Interesting though.

http://worldparty.roughguides.com/festival/voteresult.as (http://worldparty.roughguides.com/festival/voteresult.aspx)px (http://worldparty.roughguides.com/festival/voteresult.aspx)
wow! Ati-atihan (Kalibo) tops the list by almost double margin to the 2nd Dinagyang. And I congratulate Kalibo and Dinagyang for making it at the topmost two. I hope thic will mirror the real feel of people across the globe about the festival.

This source could not be as reliable but thinking that we've been a good part of it means something and something we can always be proud of. Knowing that we've been recognised fully is already an accomplishment.

^^

Dinagyang!!! :banana:
You're right, we don't know how reliable it is but it surely can give us a little sumthing to be happy of adding to the fact that Dinagyang is quite popular and chosen by that cultural council as the best festival. :banana:

Excited for next year! :cheers:
that's right. And be counted with other great festivals of the world as well is something to be proud of, indeed.

^^ You're right.

Why add more cities when they all look like towns where instead we can not have more cities but improve the current ones.

Ayus Migs Space!
he he. I couln't agree with you more. Best we better leave it right now. Something to ponder once in awhile. I'm sure it gives me goosebumps and ticklish idea for my brain once in a while.

spacewagon1

October 6th, 2007, 05:39 PM

DBP apologizes gaffe on
new Iloilo city hall project
By LYDIA C. PENDON

ILOILO CITY – The Development Bank of the Philippines Iloilo Branch made an embarrassing mistake and no less than DBP President/CEO Reynaldo G. David had to come to Iloilo on October 4, 2007 to apologize and salvage the situation.

David personally apologized to Iloilo City Mayor Jerry P. Treñas and to the people of this city for an error in judgement committed by DBP RMC-Panay Senior Assistant Vice President Crisanta G. Ibero who had presented a loan proposal for funding the construction of a new city hall last September 24, 2007 of P500 million with 6.5 interest per annum.

However, on September 28, another letter from Ibero showed the DBP loan is now 7 percent interest rate per annum and not 6.5 percent as earlier offered. The rate of 6.5 percent per annum is variable and the effective rate is higher than 7 percent per annum to include other charges such as the gross receipt tax and processing fee of .50 percent.

David, together with DBP board director, former congressman Miguel Romero, said the board withdraws its approval of the loan offer and conveys its apologies “for the extreme inconvenience and embarrassment to your person and to your administration with regard to the letter of Ibero on the proposed DBP facility to the city.”

David said the subject letter was issued out of the over-zealousness of the DBP officers. He made an assurance that the government bank will not close its door to the city and will continue to support its other projects.

“It was never our intention to undermine your authority and your relationship with the members of the Sanggunian Panlungsod. Consequently, given the circumstances, while the DBP Board approved the loan facility in principle, members of the DBP Board in its meeting of 3rd October 2007, denied the confirmation and in fact, withdrew its approval. Instructions were also given to withdraw the letter sent to your good office and the others,” David said.

The city mayor said that it showed Ibero’s letter was not authorized by the DBP board and it was improper because the city has to deal with top DBP officials only. The Ibero letter was also sent after the Landbank of the Philippines (LBP) signing.

Treñas said the DBP offer is long delayed since the city government has already signed last September 14, 2007 for a bank loan of P350 million with the Landbank of the Philippines for the new cityhall construction.

Treñas and LBP President Gilda Pico personally signed the loan agreement held at Sarabia Manor Hotel here and witnessed by other bank officials and members of the city council headed by Vice Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog. The LBP loan also carries 7 percent interest per annum.

source: Panay News (www.panaynewsphilippines.com)