Iloilo City and Province - Compiled Threads

[iloilocitykid]

Traffic experimentation to go on

Public utility jeepneys (PUJs) under the Metro Iloilo Development Council (MIDC) yesterday held a strike in protest of the traffic experimentation being implemented by the city government.

of PUJs from Oton, San Miguel and Sta. Barbara stopped operating early in the morning to protest the cutting of their routes which allegedly caused them economic hardship.

An official of a drivers association in Oton said that they seldom get passengers in their new route. "The drivers become hungry. Their earnings are just enough to pay for the rental and gasoline," the official said.

The 30-day traffic experimentation which started last October 1 limits the entry of PUJs from nearby municipalities to the city proper.

The affected drivers complained that the experimentation is unfair as the Perimeter Boundary Ordinance (PBO) is not implemented well.

City Mayor Jerry Treñas lamented the move of the drivers but he said they should bear with the inconvenience as this (traffic experimentation) is for everybody.

Treñas said officials of the different drivers organizations informed him of the planned strike last Sunday. He said it is their own prerogative but "we also have to pursue with our plans to address the traffic problem in the city."

Treñas noted that mayors of the affected towns where the PUJs originate have not intervened with the traffic experimentation being implemented by the city.

[iloilocitykid]

AFP official dodges attack
By Florence F. Hibionada

Some forty locals of a hinterland village in Leon, Iloilo cordoned off an official of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) here from a potential attack Sunday evening.

In a report, The News Today (TNT) got the confirmation of the incident that said to have placed the life of AFP Captain Lowen Gil Marquez and his family in danger. Marquez is the commanding officer of the AFP's 3rd Civil Relations Group and is in the forefront of the AFP's insurgency campaign.

Reached for comment, Captain Marquez said he had the matter reported to the town police as he went on to identify his alleged principal attacker, one Joven Tababa. The suspect, Marquez added, is known for his alias "Ka Randy" and reportedly an organic member of the Revolutionary Proletarian Army (RPA), the splinter armed group of the Communist Party of the Philippines.

Ka Randy was purportedly with a "private army," all fully-armed and appeared to be ready for battle. Captain Marquez said he recalled seeing at least six armed men, two visibly brandishing long-arms and the others with short side-arms.

Labeling the confrontation as clear harassment and direct threat to his life and his family, Captain Marquez decried the actuations of the suspect and his associates.

As such, he called for intervention and action from RPA top brass saying it is a must that abusive acts of its members cum comrades be stopped. The RPA is currently involved in peace talks with the Philippine Government.

"The incident happened early evening in Barangay Camando," Captain Marquez said in a TNT interview. "I was there with my family for a personal visit with old friends and classmates, Leon being my hometown. Then this Ka Randy appeared with his group and demanded to talk to me. But I can see that he was drunk or at least was under the influence of alcohol so the people in the barangay refused to let him come close to me. The people protected me though he clearly wanted to ‘engage'. He even pointed his .38 caliber to one resident. It was at that time that I decided to leave the premises with my family. The people surrounded us and walked with us some 500 meters to the main road."

Marquez said it was the first time he ever had a physical confrontation with the suspect. In fact, off hand he cannot give a motive to the unprovoked attacked.

"I hope these harassments do not continue and the RPA higher-ups can do something about it," Captain Marquez ended.

It was not immediately clear what further actions, if any, will be pursued out of Sunday's incident.

[iloilocitykid]

Dinagyang is Best Tourism Event in the country
By Maricar M. Calubiran

Dinagyang Festival was again awarded as the Best Tourism Event in the country in the recent 8th National Convention of the Association of Tourism Operators in the Philippines (ATOP) held in Camarines Sur last week.

Dinagyang bested at least nine other festivals from other cities in the country including its rival Sinulog festival of Cebu. In 2006, Dinagyang also bagged the top award in the tourism event.

The Masskara Festival of Bacolod City was adjudged as second place while the Paraw Regatta, also of Iloilo landed on the 3rd place.

With the recent development in the city's tourism, Mayor Jerry Treñas said Ilonggos should be proud of the Dinagyang's awards.

"This is not only for one person or group, but it is for everyone. The pride and honor Dinagyang festival has brought to Iloilo should be an ownership of the entire Ilonggo," Treñas said.

The achievement should also serve as vehicle for all Ilonggos who have families in the US, Europe and different parts of the globe to invite them during the Dinagyang festival. The award will encourage more tourists to come to Iloilo and witness the yearly festival, the mayor added.

The yearly festival which is in honor of Sto. Nino is also supported and promoted by the United Nations Millennium Development Goal.

:cheers: We're the best - again...

[iloilocitykid]

DPWH sets rehab of Iloilo City streets

By DAVID ISRAEL SINAY

ILOILO City – The Department o Public Works and Highways (DPWH) girds for the pavement resurfacing of the city’s thoroughfares stretching from Yulo-Delgado Streets, funded from the agency’s Special Local Road Fund (SLRF) under its Motor Vehicle User’s Charge (MVUC) Law.

DPWH and the city government already inked a memorandum of agreement for the pavement rehabilitation worth P1.336 million. It will include roadside maintenance, drainage improvement and bridge and structure maintenance, among others.

The DPWH shall assist the local government unit in installing and operating an approved budget tracking system and to conduct assessment on the progress and quality of the road maintenance, road safety and traffic management projects.

The MVUC Law provides that money collected under the Act “shall be earmarked solely and used exclusively for road maintenance and improvement of road drainage; for the installation of adequate and efficient traffic lights and road safety devices; and for air pollution control.”

The agreement was signed by DPWH Assistant Regional Director for Maintenance Operations Emilio Gabarda Jr. and Mayor Jerry Treñas.

[iloilocitykid]

SUSPENDED CONTRACT

DPWH probes discrepancies in flyover project
By Francis Allan L. Angelo

http://thedailyguardian.com/images/stories/frontO9.jpg
STANDING IDLE:Motorists and passengers will have to endure for a while until the DPWH has completed its investigation on the discrepancies in the construction of this P400-million flyover project. (FAA)

THE Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is investigating purported discrepancies committed by the contractor of the P400-million flyover spanning General Luna and MH Del Pilar Streets.

DPWH regional director Rolando Asis said the project is now 90 percent completed based on accomplishment report by the contractor.

[eonynx]

^^ :ohno: P400M ang budget and now this!?

[spacewagon1]

Thank you for starting the thread, IloiloCityKid.

To All:

Welcome to Iloilo:

"The Heart of the Philippines"

Thread 39

:banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana:

[spacewagon1]

City stakes claim as
RP's ‘convention site’

ILOILO City – This metropolis stakes its claim as the convention destination of the Philippines, with nine such activities since January this year,” city tourism officer Benito Jimena boasted.

National organizations which conducted their conventions here were the Save the Children Foundation, Philippine Association of Medical Technologists (PAMET), National Private Schools Athletic Association or PRISAA, Sheriffs Confederation of the Philippines, Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA), Association of Local Civil Registrars, Lions Internationl, Philippine Association of Secondary School Administrators and the Agriculture Summit.

The conventions brought in about 8,000 participants.

Jimena said Iloilo city deserves to be the next convention site because it has the right facilities and amenities.

“In terms of facilities and infrastructure, and the accessibility of Iloilo, we could very well be the convention destination of our country,” Jimena added.

The official cited the operation of the new Iloilo airport of international standards as one of the reasons why many national organizations meet here.

“We have 14 flights incoming, and 14 flights outgoing… so it’s easier for our visitors to access the place,” he said.

An organization of physicians and the Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines (ATOP) have chosen Iloilo as their venue for their national meeting next year.

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

[spacewagon1]

JICA dev’t program for
Iloilo, Guimaras starts

ILOILO City -- A three-year program aimed towards the development of a traffic plan for the Metro Iloilo Guimaras Economic Development Council (MIGEDC), with technical support coming from the Japan Bank of International Cooperation (JBIC), has kicked off.

The three-year ‘Capacity Enhancement Program’ has the formulation of a “Multi-Stakeholder Transport Planning and Traffic Management Improvement in MIGEDC” for its sub project.

An agreement entered into by the MIGEDC and JICA on March 20 this year stipulated that JICA will provide some 500,000 dollars in form of technical assistance to the former.

Japan will be sending in experts to Iloilo and Guimaras for capability training and oversee the implementation of the various process regarding the creation of the traffic plan.

Iloilo City Mayor Jerry P. Treñas, who is also MIGEDC's chairman, expressed hope that the traffic plan will ultimately provide solution to the transport problems here.

MIGEDC is composed of the municipalities of Oton, San Miguel, Pavia, Leganes, Sta. Barbara, province of Guimaras and Iloilo City.

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

[spacewagon1]

Treñas: Paraw Regatta a
big boost to city tourism

ILOILO City -- Mayor Jerry Treñas said the Paraw Regatta, which garnered a major award in the 8th National Convention of Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines (ATOP) last October 6th in Camarines Sur, will significantly help in the city’s tourism development efforts.

Paraw Regatta, considered the premier sailing event in the Philippines, is a race of native outriggers from Iloilo City to Guimaras Island.

Treñas said that apart from the Paraw Regatta which capped the third place, the Dinagyang Festival got the first place for the second year running.

The mayor congratulated the Iloilo Paraw Regatta Foundation (IPRF) officers for the success and encouraged them to further develop the festival to be able to attract more tourists to Iloilo City.

“I am certain that the Regatta will reach an even higher level of success by constantly thinking of ways to develop the event and attract more spectators from all over,” Treñas said.

Meanwhile, IPRF chair Manuel Villa bared that the foundation is planning a grander and more exciting regatta next year.

The regatta will have more activities which will not be concentrated only in Villa Beach where the main event is slated, but will include events that will be held in other parts of the city, Villa mentioned.

A major event will also be introduced in next year’s contest; a team competition featuring five or more paraws per team which get to compete against each other.

“This is to encourage camaraderie and to give chance to others who do not make it in the main event,” Villa mentioned.

Next year’s edition will mark the 36th year of the event, and will be held on February 17th, along the shorelines facing Tatoy’s Manokan Restaurant, in Villa Beach, Arevalo.

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

[iloilocitykid]

^^ :ohno: P400M ang budget and now this!?

What they're doing is so stupid. Why not finish the project before going into the anomalies. :ohno: They only think of themselves.

[COLLIN JASPER]

@iloilocitykid pls check your inbox, may gn PM ko

[chymera00]

What they're doing is so stupid. Why not finish the project before going into the anomalies. :ohno: They only think of themselves.
First it was the lack of lighting and now this?
Treñas: Paraw Regatta a
big boost to city tourism

ILOILO City -- Mayor Jerry Treñas said the Paraw Regatta, which garnered a major award in the 8th National Convention of Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines (ATOP) last October 6th in Camarines Sur, will significantly help in the city’s tourism development efforts.

Paraw Regatta, considered the premier sailing event in the Philippines, is a race of native outriggers from Iloilo City to Guimaras Island.

Treñas said that apart from the Paraw Regatta which capped the third place, the Dinagyang Festival got the first place for the second year running.

The mayor congratulated the Iloilo Paraw Regatta Foundation (IPRF) officers for the success and encouraged them to further develop the festival to be able to attract more tourists to Iloilo City.

“I am certain that the Regatta will reach an even higher level of success by constantly thinking of ways to develop the event and attract more spectators from all over,” Treñas said.

Meanwhile, IPRF chair Manuel Villa bared that the foundation is planning a grander and more exciting regatta next year.

The regatta will have more activities which will not be concentrated only in Villa Beach where the main event is slated, but will include events that will be held in other parts of the city, Villa mentioned.

A major event will also be introduced in next year’s contest; a team competition featuring five or more paraws per team which get to compete against each other.

“This is to encourage camaraderie and to give chance to others who do not make it in the main event,” Villa mentioned.

Next year’s edition will mark the 36th year of the event, and will be held on February 17th, along the shorelines facing Tatoy’s Manokan Restaurant, in Villa Beach, Arevalo.

source: Panay News (http://www.panaynewsphilippines.com/guimaras5.htm)
I'm already excited what the foundation has in store for next year, I hope they release their schedule soon too.
JICA dev’t program for
Iloilo, Guimaras starts

ILOILO City -- A three-year program aimed towards the development of a traffic plan for the Metro Iloilo Guimaras Economic Development Council (MIGEDC), with technical support coming from the Japan Bank of International Cooperation (JBIC), has kicked off.

The three-year ‘Capacity Enhancement Program’ has the formulation of a “Multi-Stakeholder Transport Planning and Traffic Management Improvement in MIGEDC” for its sub project.

An agreement entered into by the MIGEDC and JICA on March 20 this year stipulated that JICA will provide some 500,000 dollars in form of technical assistance to the former.

Japan will be sending in experts to Iloilo and Guimaras for capability training and oversee the implementation of the various process regarding the creation of the traffic plan.

Iloilo City Mayor Jerry P. Treñas, who is also MIGEDC's chairman, expressed hope that the traffic plan will ultimately provide solution to the transport problems here.

MIGEDC is composed of the municipalities of Oton, San Miguel, Pavia, Leganes, Sta. Barbara, province of Guimaras and Iloilo City.

source: Panay News (http://www.panaynewsphilippines.com/guimaras4.htm)
Wow ... This is the first time I knew JBIC is also helping MIGEDC. This is really good news that an increasing number of foreign groups are supporting Metro Iloilo.
City stakes claim as
RP's ‘convention site’

ILOILO City – This metropolis stakes its claim as the convention destination of the Philippines, with nine such activities since January this year,” city tourism officer Benito Jimena boasted.

National organizations which conducted their conventions here were the Save the Children Foundation, Philippine Association of Medical Technologists (PAMET), National Private Schools Athletic Association or PRISAA, Sheriffs Confederation of the Philippines, Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA), Association of Local Civil Registrars, Lions Internationl, Philippine Association of Secondary School Administrators and the Agriculture Summit.

The conventions brought in about 8,000 participants.

Jimena said Iloilo city deserves to be the next convention site because it has the right facilities and amenities.

“In terms of facilities and infrastructure, and the accessibility of Iloilo, we could very well be the convention destination of our country,” Jimena added.

The official cited the operation of the new Iloilo airport of international standards as one of the reasons why many national organizations meet here.

“We have 14 flights incoming, and 14 flights outgoing… so it’s easier for our visitors to access the place,” he said.

An organization of physicians and the Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines (ATOP) have chosen Iloilo as their venue for their national meeting next year.

source: Panay News (http://www.panaynewsphilippines.com/guimaras3.htm)
Hmm... good news but Iloilo still needs a lot to improve on.

[whyte]

Dinagyang is Best Tourism Event in the country
By Maricar M. Calubiran

Dinagyang Festival was again awarded as the Best Tourism Event in the country in the recent 8th National Convention of the Association of Tourism Operators in the Philippines (ATOP) held in Camarines Sur last week.

....................

:banana: Good news indeed and I hope that the city will make every Dinagyang celebration bigger and on a much grander scale every year and must work hard to make Dinagyang into a ""household" term on a national scale


City stakes claim as
RP's ‘convention site’

ILOILO City – This metropolis stakes its claim as the convention destination of the Philippines, with nine such activities since January this year,” city tourism officer Benito Jimena boasted.

National organizations which conducted their conventions here were the Save the Children Foundation, Philippine Association of Medical Technologists (PAMET), National Private Schools Athletic Association or PRISAA, Sheriffs Confederation of the Philippines, Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA), Association of Local Civil Registrars, Lions Internationl, Philippine Association of Secondary School Administrators and the Agriculture Summit.

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

another good news :banana:
but if we have bigger and better facilities plus bigger support in almost all aspects from both the city and provincial government, then we can truly fast track this dream.

*crosses fingers for the ad congress in 2009 :D *

[whyte]

:wave:
so sa SM DELGADO gali maopen ang GOLDILOCKS.well, red ribbon wont be taking it lightly they are set to open sa sm delgado replacing that KODAK stall near sportshouse/globe.though dinuguan man lang ang ginalagas ko sa goldilocks :D at least we finally have a branch in the city, an inidcator of good business climate.

hopefully by the end of the year la salette will be fully leased para nami na gid ang area nga ina sang city. :banana:

isa pa gid gale,tani ang building occupied mercury drug/mang inasal/andoks in front of sm delgado and marymart mall would be converted into a full-gimik-resto place

[whyte]

c/o COLLIN JASPER :banana:

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2313/1505938797_39807dd893.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2273/1505942587_bcc8737020.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2100/1505945787_5589029344.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2319/1505948447_b7da8087ac.jpg

[IAMME]

City stakes claim as
RP's ‘convention site’


ILOILO City – This metropolis stakes its claim as the convention destination of the Philippines, with nine such activities since January this year,” city tourism officer Benito Jimena boasted.

National organizations which conducted their conventions here were the Save the Children Foundation, Philippine Association of Medical Technologists (PAMET), National Private Schools Athletic Association or PRISAA, Sheriffs Confederation of the Philippines, Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA), Association of Local Civil Registrars, Lions Internationl, Philippine Association of Secondary School Administrators and the Agriculture Summit.

The conventions brought in about 8,000 participants.

Jimena said Iloilo city deserves to be the next convention site because it has the right facilities and amenities.

“In terms of facilities and infrastructure, and the accessibility of Iloilo, we could very well be the convention destination of our country,” Jimena added.

The official cited the operation of the new Iloilo airport of international standards as one of the reasons why many national organizations meet here.

“We have 14 flights incoming, and 14 flights outgoing… so it’s easier for our visitors to access the place,” he said.

An organization of physicians and the Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines (ATOP) have chosen Iloilo as their venue for their national meeting next year.

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


Uhh, where is FISHLINK 2007 which was held May 17-19 at Grand Hotel and organized by the UP Aquaculture Society?

[spacewagon1]

in as much as we want to claim as the next convention destination, we still have so uch to prove for oursleves. The coming of many national conferences, workshops, lectures, symposoiums, etc around the city is already a good indication of our improving convention facilties and continuous promotion. However, small scales some of these conventions maybe, they remains really vital for our bid to become the next convention hub of the country. We're still lacking a lot of faciltities but we're getting there. We need to push further ( little bit more) to lure big hotel investors to come and invest in the city. Our convention facility remains small in nature with the only biggest convention center we have is located in Centennial (2500 capacity but attached to a hotel). How I wish the provincial government will push through their plan of erecting big convention center that can hold at least 3,000 or more attendees in the future.

[spacewagon1]

this is just a portion of the new ILOILO CITY OFFICIAL Website:

http://www.iloilocity.gov.ph/iloiloct2007/images/webanner.jpg
http://www.iloilocity.gov.ph/iloiloct2007/images/dinagyangpics.gifhttp://www.iloilocity.gov.ph/iloiloct2007/images/iloilosbest.gif
http://www.iloilocity.gov.ph/iloiloct2007/images/visitors.gifhttp://www.iloilocity.gov.ph/iloiloct2007/images/business.gifhttp://www.iloilocity.gov.ph/iloiloct2007/images/residents.gifhttp://www.iloilocity.gov.ph/iloiloct2007/images/community.gif

.... try to visit the www.iloilocity.gov.ph. I think all the sections are still underconstructions.

:banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana:

[eonynx]

^^ the proposed city hall that they included in their website as one of the eye catchers, that's only about 6 floors tall. the final design of the city hall on the other hand, is a 9 floor building.

[METROPOLITAN_ILOILO]

^^

finally something is happenning here... maybe may nakahutik kay Mayor Jerry to do something about the Iloilo Website... very GOOD!

Go go go! :)

[COLLIN JASPER]

http://www.panaynewsphilippines.com/images07/081307/front%20pic%20link.jpg

Risky Flyover? :ohno: :ohno: :ohno: Mga bobo ang mga engineer nag ubra sine!!!

[shyaman]

Why @collin? What's wrong with it?

[iloilocitykid]

this is just a portion of the new ILOILO CITY OFFICIAL Website:

http://www.iloilocity.gov.ph/iloiloct2007/images/webanner.jpg
http://www.iloilocity.gov.ph/iloiloct2007/images/dinagyangpics.gifhttp://www.iloilocity.gov.ph/iloiloct2007/images/iloilosbest.gif
http://www.iloilocity.gov.ph/iloiloct2007/images/visitors.gifhttp://www.iloilocity.gov.ph/iloiloct2007/images/business.gifhttp://www.iloilocity.gov.ph/iloiloct2007/images/residents.gifhttp://www.iloilocity.gov.ph/iloiloct2007/images/community.gif

.... try to visit the www.iloilocity.gov.ph. I think all the sections are still underconstructions.

:banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana: :banana:

:banana: Wow!
What it lacks is more things to showcase Iloilo to the world. For one, they lacked Museo Iloilo(dubbed one of the best), Calle Real(heritage sight), Fort San Pedro, Molo and Jaro Churches and the Jaro Belfry which are all worthy of visiting. I myself never get tired of going to the 150 year old Cathedrals and marvel at the view of the Belfry across me. It's best to visit the place at 7-8 in the evening. :)
They only showed Dinagyang and Paraw Regatta which happens only once a year.

But all in all, it's better and much more impressive than the old site. Good job. :cheers:

[spacewagon1]

^^ the proposed city hall that they included in their website as one of the eye catchers, that's only about 6 floors tall. the final design of the city hall on the other hand, is a 9 floor building.

:banana: Wow!
What it lacks is more things to showcase Iloilo to the world. For one, they lacked Museo Iloilo(dubbed one of the best), Calle Real(heritage sight), Fort San Pedro, Molo and Jaro Churches and the Jaro Belfry which are all worthy of visiting. I myself never get tired of going to the 150 year old Cathedrals and marvel at the view of the Belfry across me. It's best to visit the place at 7-8 in the evening. :)
They only showed Dinagyang and Paraw Regatta which happens only once a year.

But all in all, it's better and much more impressive than the old site. Good job. :cheers:
it's just only few of the features the new website will have. There's few more. And I'm glad they are working on it NOW.

Iloilo City is starting to incorporate things for tourism and promotion purposes, which I believe is a good way to help expedite whatever projects or prospects we having and want to have in our beloved city.

Actually, guys, you can email the webmaster directly. And we can send feedback from time to time. The website looks really colourful and alive. I'm glad it's all going in right direction.

:banana: :banana: :banana:

[iloilocitykid]

http://www.panaynewsphilippines.com/images07/081307/front%20pic%20link.jpg

Risky Flyover? :ohno: :ohno: :ohno: Mga bobo ang mga engineer nag ubra sine!!!

Nong Collin, sakto ka...it's a stupid infra project! :ohno:

Here's the news today...

RISKY FLYOVER
Flyover may collapse if
not reinforced – DPWH

By DAVID ISRAEL SINAY

ILOILO City – The construction of this city’s first P400-million flyover has been suspended. The structure may collapse during an earthquake.

The contractor of the flyover was also suspended for not following the specifications given by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), said Regional Director Rolando Asis.

The flyover, traversing General Luna - M.H. del Pilar Streets here, will thus not be inaugurated this month as earlier announced.

For non-compliance of the contract in the construction of the flyover, Mabey and Johnson Limited, the UK-based designer, supplier and contractor of the flyover project, was suspended by the DWPH central office in Manila.

Asis said the contractor used materials not in conformity with the specifications stated in the contract – that is, it failed to meet the required strength of the reinforced steel bars at the piers.

Piers are the foundation which holds the columns (the vertical structures) holding the flyover.

Asis said the contractor failed to meet the required flyover tensile strength and yielding point of “Grade 60.”

“They did not follow the contract agreement,” he lamented.

Because of this, four of the six piers – of the seven-span modular steel flyover – supported by board piles and abutments need to be reinforced, Asis said.

“Piers 2, 3, 4 and 5 will have to be upgraded … he groundwork is weak,” he stressed.
“The structure is still safe and sound for passage but it may collapse in case of earthquakes,” Asis revealed, noting that Region 6 is close to a fault line.

Aside from this, Asis said, the upgrading will also include the putting up of tie-beams between two board piles to further strengthen the flyover’s structure.

The flyover aims to ease traffic congestion in the city and meet the increasing demand of vehicular traffic. The project is under the President’s Bridge Program.
Asis said the project is now 90 percent complete.

The flyover stretches 305 linear meters with a standard capacity of 20 tons.

The long-delayed project was supposed to be finished within 120 calendar days.

Construction began in April 10 this year; it was supposed to open for traffic in August.
Asis said it will take two to three more months for the flyover to be completed.“The standard curing process (of cement) alone is 21 days,” Asis said.

The unfinished portions of the flyover include the embankment and approaches; concreting of the bridge seats at abutment; and part of the retaining wall at approaches.
Only last month, Mayor Jerry Treñas expressed concern over the curing process of the pavement towards the flyover’s approach, citing the many vehicles using the path.

The city government, as its counterpart in the ongoing project, shall clear obstructions 20 meters towards the approach of the vehicular flyover – which include the restructuring of the island and concreting of the pavement.

Due to heavy traffic in the area “the curing process of the concrete pavement may be affected by the continued vibration caused by vehicular traffic,” Treñas explained.

“I have (also) instructed the City Engineer’s Office to come up with a proposal for the lighting of the flyover,” Treñas said.

He said the illumination of the flyover is not covered by the project and that the DPWH is hesitant to install light posts on top of the flyover.

xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

:down: :wallbash: :evil: :doh: :cry:
I hate the Politics in the country...:ohno:

[spacewagon1]

http://www.panaynewsphilippines.com/images07/081307/front%20pic%20link.jpg

Risky Flyover? :ohno: :ohno: :ohno: Mga bobo ang mga engineer nag ubra sine!!!
too many controversies haunting that first flyover. Some were blown out of proportion. I just jhope they'll finish it. Get it all done. Get on in it and be happy. Enough of talking. Make the flyover work for us when it's done.

[iloilocitykid]

However things are getting better...

Iloilo City mulls P940M budget

ILOILO City – The P940-million proposed executive budget is now ready to be transmitted to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan before the October 15 deadline.

But Mayor Jerry Treñas said the proposed 2008 budget is not enough to cover the honorarium of contractual employees and allowances of national government employees.

Contractual employees are hired locally, which include traffic aides and day care workers. Meantime, the city also gives allowances to prosecutors, judges, teachers and policemen.

According to the mayor, there was no allocation in the budget for the mentioned employees for the last quarter of 2008.

Meanwhile, the city budget office said that shortages in allocations can be covered by the passage of a supplemental budget, depending on the availability of funds.

Joy Ann Toledo, budget officer-in-charge, said what is important is that the city has allocations intended for its contractual obligations such as electricity, water among others.

The city gets 55 percent of its fund from local revenues while 45 percent come from the Internal Revenue Allotment.

[spacewagon1]

^^ ^^ ^^ that's good budgetting. And I'm guess it's very positive considering that our income as a city is way too higher than that (1.2Billion last year). Meaning we can have positive balance by the end of the year. However, if you've notice, Trenas says, it does not include several things and hese things we need to look at at present that can even reach more to more than 1.2 billion. I wonder on how we will be faring with our Annual Income this year.

IloiloCityKid, the budget always falls below 25-50% of the total income of the place so that there will be ample of leeway for supplemental budget proposals, just in case.

Look at the Province of Iloilo (capitol) is doing right now. The budget is less than a billion but every 3 to 4 months, Tupas is asking for supplemntal budget to cover other expenses. All in all, it reaches more than a billion peso budget. The capitol remains on positive side but they need to review their budgetting from time to time.

[birdfluuu]

http://www.panaynewsphilippines.com/images07/081307/front%20pic%20link.jpg

Risky Flyover? :ohno: :ohno: :ohno: Mga bobo ang mga engineer nag ubra sine!!!

:ohno: i think there was no effective safety monitoring at the construction site.
what was needed was action against those responsible for the construction,delikado ina,tani indi na paghulaton sa mayor nyo nga may matabu dira:ohno: It is high time the relevant authorities acted against errant flyover works contractors who have no regard for public safety.:ohno: te san o gali e demolish ang inyo fly over?:)

[iloilocitykid]

^^ Where'd you get the idea of demolishing it? They'll just add beams to support it then it's all better.

[daks2003]

Good thing that this anomaly is uncovered in the Iloilo project because the contractor of this project is the same one who will be constructing bacolod's flyover

:ohno: i think there was no effective safety monitoring at the construction site.
what was needed was action against those responsible for the construction,delikado ina,tani indi na paghulaton sa mayor nyo nga may matabu dira:ohno: It is high time the relevant authorities acted against errant flyover works contractors who have no regard for public safety.:ohno: te san o gali e demolish ang inyo fly over?:)

[eonynx]

^^ so i guess we have to suffer 3-4 mos. more of bad traffic in that area!:lol:

[IAMME]

http://www.panaynewsphilippines.com/images07/081307/front%20pic%20link.jpg

Risky Flyover? :ohno: :ohno: :ohno: Mga bobo ang mga engineer nag ubra sine!!!

P400 million? Ugh.. I can find no words to express my disgust. Nice aerial though.


Ateneo de Iloilo site development plan
http://img410.imageshack.us/img410/8369/imgp2876wg6.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Basi may gusto mag-donate dira. P200 million lang naman. It's like, half of a flyover.
http://img405.imageshack.us/img405/4780/imgp2877fz1.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

[eonynx]

^^ i wonder if, say like, 10-15 years from now, there will be an intellectual rivalry that will occur between upv and ateneo de iloilo?:)

i personally like that there will be!:lol: for it will spawn great ideas, among others. these two schools are just near each other.

nice renderings! thanks for the post @ iamme!

[IAMME]

Based on the render, I think the campus has no college building.

[eonynx]

^^ i do hope it's in their long term plans though.

[COLLIN JASPER]

:ohno: i think there was no effective safety monitoring at the construction site.
what was needed was action against those responsible for the construction,delikado ina,tani indi na paghulaton sa mayor nyo nga may matabu dira:ohno: It is high time the relevant authorities acted against errant flyover works contractors who have no regard for public safety.:ohno: te san o gali e demolish ang inyo fly over?:)

Lagpat ko gd nga may mag react mo. Ang kahisa-on bala inde gd mapa iway ah.:ohno: :ohno: :ohno: :bash:

[COLLIN JASPER]

P400 million? Ugh.. I can find no words to express my disgust. Nice aerial though.


Ateneo de Iloilo site development plan
http://img410.imageshack.us/img410/8369/imgp2876wg6.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Basi may gusto mag-donate dira. P200 million lang naman. It's like, half of a flyover.
http://img405.imageshack.us/img405/4780/imgp2877fz1.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

Wow!

[birdfluuu]

Lagpat ko gd nga may mag react mo. Ang kahisa-on bala inde gd mapa iway ah.:ohno: :ohno: :ohno: :bash:

collin I am so sad to hear that..i do not like it when u would plainly show me dat u do not like anything i say or do:nuts: :ohno: but its ok ur still my friend.:) ..mag binuligay lang ta bala.para sa kauswagan sa western visayas:banana: :banana: :banana: :cheers: birdfluuu:cheers1: collin

iloilocitykid:Where'd you get the idea of demolishing it? They'll just add beams to support it then it's all better. ang tito ko hambal ya humok duta sa Iloilo basi mag usmod ang flyover nyo..kabalo na sa kay Engineer man ina sya kag maalam man opinion ko man lang na..nga kon ako pamankoton mas gusto ko e demolish ang flyover kay hambal ni collin dangerous indi safe ang pag construct:)

[eonynx]

^^ ok, since "gusto" mo, let's demolish it tomorrow!:cheers: :banana: :banana: :banana:

[chymera00]

as said already if you've only read. They only have to add reinforced beams. Demolishing it would be would be a wasteful idea.

[eonynx]

^^ well, hambal sng tito ya kuno e!:) and maalam ang tito ya! it could be nga mango ang mga nag construct sini!:lol:

[death327]

Hay... there are really people in this world who don't have critical thinking skills... kakapoy mamati sang minango ah!

[daks2003]

ti ginpamangkot mo si tito mo kun ano mayu himu-on? :lol:

collin I am so sad to hear that..i do not like it when u would plainly show me dat u do not like anything i say or do:nuts: :ohno: but its ok ur still my friend.:) ..mag binuligay lang ta bala.para sa kauswagan sa western visayas:banana: :banana: :banana: :cheers: birdfluuu:cheers1: collin

ang tito ko hambal ya humok duta sa Iloilo basi mag usmod ang flyover nyo..kabalo na sa kay Engineer man ina sya kag maalam man opinion ko man lang na..nga kon ako pamankoton mas gusto ko e demolish ang flyover kay hambal ni collin dangerous indi safe ang pag construct:)

[eonynx]

Hay... there are really people in this world who don't have critical thinking skills... kakapoy mamati sang minango ah!

maalam man na sya siguro! he has quite an adept predisposposition to hide his intentions with honeyed words. but it's still glaring even if you don't have to read between the lines. it's like appearing to kiss someone when the intention really is to bite him.

we all welcome criticisms here! even us not infrequently minces no words in criticizing our own! but the point is, criticisms meant to hopefully improve and criticisms out of heartfelt and "genuine" concern! what we can't stand is hypocrisy at its finest. especially when it becomes an oft repeated habit!

[death327]

Actually I realized that critical thinking is not really needed in this kind of problem. Common sense will do. Hay...Bisan "Common Sense" na lang. Why am I wasting my time to people like him/her?

[eonynx]

let's just hope na ma change na sya ah!:)

[spacewagon1]

^^ impressive info for Ateneo de Iloilo. I could not wait for the construction to start. I think the college plan is not incorporated in the planning yet as shown in the renderings. Maybe later. Remember, they have 7 hectares to develop. I don't think seven-hectare will only devoted for elementary and secondary schools only.

[spacewagon1]

ti ginpamangkot mo si tito mo kun ano mayu himu-on? :lol:
that's what I like here in our thread. We analyse first, ore than anything. We go deeper to the problem and not blab around. Sadly, we have a bad suggestion from other company. I just hope he/he will think first before posting anything here. Cos I don't like any funny postings here in our thread. It just loses the relevance and importance of a project if we always tend to jump without thinking.

[spacewagon1]

Regional housing fair ’07

The Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC) will hold the Western Visayas Housing Fair 2007 October 23-25 at the Iloilo provincial capitol lobby.

The fair is themed “Serbisyong Tapat, abot-Kayang Pabahay Para sa Lahat.”

The fair is held in coordination with other shelter agencies like the PAG-IBIG Fund (HMDF), National Housing Authority (NHA), National Home Mortgage Finance Corporation (NHMFC), Housing and Land Regulatory Board (HLRB) and other government financial institutions.

The main purpose of the event is the disposition of acquired properties of the key shelter agencies and the government financial institutions at a discounted rate, as well as the newly built housing units of the private developers.

The expected target market will include government and private employees and the Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW).

Organizers of the Housing Fair are inviting all working sectors, the families of OFWs, barangay officials, teachers and students and LGU representatives, including officers of cooperatives, to visit the event and see the different types and model houses.

Pag-IBIG Fund OIC Branch manager Ma. Lourdes Z. Uy said some 14 private developers will display their program/project packages for sale. They are also expected to present during the technical sessions on the second day.

The Fair will start with a motorcade and opening program on October 23 at the Iloilo Provincial Capitol lobby. (PIA 6/ESS)

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

[spacewagon1]

MOC for UPV land use plan inked
By Lyncen M. Fernandez

Land disputes are often a messy and complicated problem.

There is a delicate balance between protecting the rights of the rightful owner and considering the welfare of informal settlers.

The University of the Philippines-Visayas has long grappled with the situation involving the informal settlers that encroached its 10-plus-hectare land in Iloilo City.
A brief look at its history explains why things have come to be what they are now.

Iloilo City, like the rest of the country, was caught in the frenzy of rebuilding from the rubbles of the Second World War after 1945.

City officials at that time, led by Don Fernando Lopez, dreamed of a UP education in Iloilo City and passed a resolution for this happen.

They must have worked very hard such that, by July 1947, UP Iloilo College opened its door to Ilonggos.

The new college occupied a lot that was donated by the Iloilo City Government with the condition that the said donation would remain in place as long as the donee needed the site and building for educational purposes.

The UP administration has allowed for self-built houses to be constructed on its property by employees due to the absence of UP housing units.

Sixty years later, UPIC (now UP Visayas), occupies only around four hectares for its building and school facilities out of its almost 10-hectare property. The remaining land is already occupied by informal settlers who have already settled on considerable portions of the undeveloped and unprotected property.

The “UPV Iloilo City Campus Land Property: Development and Management Options” is a project that will come up with a profile of the UPV Iloilo City community and an inventory of its prospective beneficiaries.

The proponents of the project are Prof. Rhodella A. Ibabao of the College of management and Prof. Jose A. Go of the College of Arts and Sciences.

From these data, management and development options of UPV Iloilo City campus property will be formulated.

The project will also come up with a demographic and socio-economic profile of the current residents who reside outside the perimeter wall of the campus. It will make an inventory of prospective beneficiaries that the UP administration will initiate.

The project will also describe the perceptions of settlers regarding their conditions and sentiments on their tenuous status.

It will also take into account the sentiments of concerned agencies on the utilization and development of the property outside the perimeter wall of the campus and will provide options for managing the use of the University’s property based on the results of the study.

On October 8, 2007, the UPV represented by Chancellor Glenn D. Aguilar, signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with the Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor (PCUP), the Iloilo City Urban Poor Affairs Office (ICUPAO), and the Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC).

Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas sent ICUPAO Chairman Romy H. Firmeza on his behalf.

In his speech read by Firmeza, the Mayor said that the signing of the MOC should bode well for the people of Iloilo City, particularly for the less-privileged sector.

The Mayor was optimistic that the MOC will turn out in the best interest of all concerned especially the urban poor.

He was also hopeful that it will spawn opportunities for them to be productive and will make them help turn the wheels of progress by carrying part of the load demanded by growth and development. A brief look at its history explains why things have come to be what they are now.

Iloilo City, like the rest of the country, was caught in the frenzy of rebuilding from the rubbles of the Second World War after 1945.

City officials at that time, led by Don Fernando Lopez, dreamed of a UP education in Iloilo City and passed a resolution for this happen.

They must have worked very hard such that, by July 1947, UP Iloilo College opened its door to Ilonggos.

The new college occupied a lot that was donated by the Iloilo City Government with the condition that the said donation would remain in place as long as the donee needed the site and building for educational purposes.

The UP administration has allowed for self-built houses to be constructed on its property by employees due to the absence of UP housing units.

Sixty years later, UPIC (now UP Visayas), occupies only around four hectares for its building and school facilities out of its almost 10-hectare property. The remaining land is already occupied by informal settlers who have already settled on considerable portions of the undeveloped and unprotected property.

The “UPV Iloilo City Campus Land Property: Development and Management Options” is a project that will come up with a profile of the UPV Iloilo City community and an inventory of its prospective beneficiaries.

The proponents of the project are Prof. Rhodella A. Ibabao of the College of management and Prof. Jose A. Go of the College of Arts and Sciences.

From these data, management and development options of UPV Iloilo City campus property will be formulated.

The project will also come up with a demographic and socio-economic profile of the current residents who reside outside the perimeter wall of the campus. It will make an inventory of prospective beneficiaries that the UP administration will initiate.

The project will also describe the perceptions of settlers regarding their conditions and sentiments on their tenuous status.

It will also take into account the sentiments of concerned agencies on the utilization and development of the property outside the perimeter wall of the campus and will provide options for managing the use of the University’s property based on the results of the study.

On October 8, 2007, the UPV represented by Chancellor Glenn D. Aguilar, signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with the Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor (PCUP), the Iloilo City Urban Poor Affairs Office (ICUPAO), and the Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC).

Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas sent ICUPAO Chairman Romy H. Firmeza on his behalf.

In his speech read by Firmeza, the Mayor said that the signing of the MOC should bode well for the people of Iloilo City, particularly for the less-privileged sector.

The Mayor was optimistic that the MOC will turn out in the best interest of all concerned especially the urban poor.

He was also hopeful that it will spawn opportunities for them to be productive and will make them help turn the wheels of progress by carrying part of the load demanded by growth and development.

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

[spacewagon1]

7 firms to receive DTI-certified establishments program

SEVEN firms in Iloilo are awardees of the Department of Trade and Industry-Certified Establishment (CE) Program.

Each company will receive a DTI-CE Seal in the awarding rites to be held during the opening of the Consumer Welfare and Product Safety and Quality Standards Expo 2007 at the fountain area of Robinsons Place Iloilo October 15, 2007, 2:30pm.

The awardees are: for service and repair shops category – Nissan Iloilo (S&J) Motors, Inc. (silver seal) and Naces Appliance Sales Corp. (bronze seal).

For Supermarkets Category: Bronze seal for five branches of Iloilo Supermart located at Gen. Luna St., Valeria-Delgado Sts., Molo, Jaro, and Mandurriao.

For Appliance Center Category: Naces Appliance Sales Corp. (bronze seal).

DTI - Iloilo Provincial Director Diosdado P. Cadena Jr. said the DTI - CE Program was launched July 06, 2006 with the signing of the Memorandum of Agreement by Secretary Peter B. Favila and the business sector.

The program aims to give recognition to establishments that uphold the rights of consumers and practice responsible business.

It encourages businesses to adopt a self-policing mechanism designed to promote and foster the highest business ethics and uphold a fair and honest market place through voluntary self-regulation and service excellence.

All retail establishments, supermarkets, department stores, appliance centers, hardware stores and DTI accredited service and repair shops may apply for certification under the program.

Three levels of awards are given to deserving establishments.

The Bronze Seal is given to firms that have complied to Fair Trade Laws, i.e. Consumer Act, Price Act, Price Tag Law and in addition, have available Consumer Welfare Desk.

The Silver Seal is awarded to establishments that have complied with the bronze requirements and have shown social commitment by being involved in civic action projects or worthwhile local and charitable projects.

The Gold Seal is for firms that have achieved the Silver requirements, at the same time compliant with some elements of ISO 9001/14001.

Awardees of a lower level DTI - CE Seal can apply for a higher level upon compliance of the necessary requirement/s after a period of six months after receiving the seal.

Cadena said a DTI-certified establishment has an edge over its competitors because more consumers will patronize its products and services.

Certification would mean that the store sells quality goods and provides quality service to consumers. (Ruby M. Melliza with reports from Felisa Judith L. Degala/DTI)

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

[spacewagon1]

DILG allowed Treñas to travel
By Francis Allan L. Angelo

THE legal counsel of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) regional said local officials can travel as long as they satisfy the requirements set by their central office.

Atty. Ferdinand Panes said Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas was allowed to travel to Taiwan “because he met the prerequisites of the Bureau of Local Government Supervision (BLGS).”

One of the requirements that local officials must submit before they can be allowed to travel abroad is the invitation from the entity or group that will sponsor the trip.
“The invitation must be attached to the request to travel abroad so we can determine the nature of the trip. Mayor Treñas satisfied our requirements, thus he was allowed to travel,” Panes said in a phone interview.

The BLGS is headed by Atty. Genaro Jose Demeterio S. Moreno who is also the DILG central office’s chief legal officer.

As regards the case filed by an environmental group against Treñas before the Office of the Ombudsman, Panes said it is up to the mayor to answer the charges and issues involving his travel.

The Responsible Ilonggos for Sustainable Energy through lawyer Romeo Gerochi charged Treñas with grave misconduct and violation of Republic Act No. 6713 (Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees) when the mayor traveled to Taiwan upon invitation of Formosa Heavy Industries Corp. (FHIC) to observe and inspect coal-fired power plants there.

FHIC is the industrial partner of Global Business Power Corp. which is proposing to put up a 100-MW coal-fired power plant in La Paz, Iloilo City.

As regards the scheduled trip of Iloilo City councilors to Taiwan, Panes said Vice Mayor Jed Mabilog also sought authority to travel and an opinion from their legal department on the legitimacy of their travel.

Panes said the issue became complicated with the recent memorandum from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) excluding local government units from the process of issuance of environmental compliance certificate to plants and other establishments.

“This memorandum must be considered because the LGUs now have no hand in the granting of ECCs to projects,” Panes said.

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

^^ ^^ sour-graping lang si Gerochi because he wasn't invited after all. he he

[spacewagon1]

Janiuay rediscovers abaca
By Bombette G. Marin

Abaca, an indigenous fiber in the Philippines, belongs to the "hard" fiber group and is widely known as Manila hemp.

Considered as the most valuable of all fibers, abaca is used generally for cordage purposes.

To the untrained eyes, this naturally-grown plant can easily be mistaken for a banana plant without a fruit.

Abaca has been cultivated in the Philippines since the 1500s and became known worldwide in the 1800s because it is used to make ropes in ship rigging. It is extremely strong and durable; resistant to salt water.

Abaca can also be used to make hard-wearing products; has a beautiful texture when made into hats and other products; biodegradable and eco-friendly; and relatively cheap to produce.

Abaca fiber is considered as one of the most important and profitable agricultural produce of the province and is expected to continue making a stronghold in both domestic and international markets.

For a number of years, it was reported that it comprised approximately two-thirds of the total export trade of the country (Abaca in the Philippines, Saleeby Murab M.)

Iloilo is considered as one of the largest abaca fiber-producing provinces in the region due to the thriving abaca handicraft industry operating in Janiuay, a town 29 kilometers away from Iloilo City.

Janiuay has a land area of 17,910 hectares, a substantial portion of which is reserved for abaca production.

At Barangay Tuburan, some seven kilometers away from the poblacion, the abaca industry was revived through the support of Taytay Sang Kauswagan Inc. (TKSI), one of the country's largest Micro-Finance Institution and a non-stock, non-profit Christian development organization.

The Tuburan Abaca Weavers Association (TAWA) is a newly-registered group managed by Captain Flora Insulente who is a weaver herself.

Insulente revived and managed Janiuay's One Town One Product (OTOP).

TAWA presently has 26 member-weavers composed of mostly women and out-of-school youth trained who earn their living by transforming abaca fibers (abundantly grown at Barangay Quipot) into unique, functional and creative designs of bags, coin purses, slippers, Christmas decors, placemats, baskets and other gift items.

The local government of Janiuay through the efforts of Mayor Bienvenido Margarico is helping TAWA market its products by joining local and national trade and tourism fairs. TAWA products are also featured in the town's annual LANOT Festival held every January.

The Iloilo provincial government is doing its share in the campaign towards wider awareness and interest on the fiber which is now growing in popularity and usage.

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

[COLLIN JASPER]

Megaworld pays P9M transfer tax
By Jeehan V. Fernandez

MEGAWORLD Corp., the developer of the 54-hectare old airport property in Mandurriao, Iloilo City, yesterday paid the City Hall its P9-million transfer tax.

“We’re very happy as the payment is timely because the city is still looking for available funds for other obligations until the yearend,” said Mayor Jerry Treñas upon hearing the information from City Treasurer Katherine Tingson who received the paycheck yesterday morning.

He added the money will go to the general fund and will become basis for supplemental budget the city will need until December.

“If there are big investments, these will result to better resources and more projects for the city,” Treñas stressed.

Megaworld is planning to invest another P1.5 billion to put up a business process outsourcing center, hotel and convention center in developing the area.

It has paid the Department of Finance (DOF) P1.2 billion in cash as payment for the property few weeks ago.

Treñas said the transfer tax represents three-fourths of one percent of the P1.2 billion that was paid by the Megaworld to the DOF for the purchase of the old airport site.

The transfer tax is the share of the local government unit (LGU) once the private investor buys a real property within the LGU’s jurisdiction.

[COLLIN JASPER]

Megaworld pays P9M transfer tax
By Jeehan V. Fernandez

MEGAWORLD Corp., the developer of the 54-hectare old airport property in Mandurriao, Iloilo City, yesterday paid the City Hall its P9-million transfer tax.

“We’re very happy as the payment is timely because the city is still looking for available funds for other obligations until the yearend,” said Mayor Jerry Treñas upon hearing the information from City Treasurer Katherine Tingson who received the paycheck yesterday morning.

He added the money will go to the general fund and will become basis for supplemental budget the city will need until December.

“If there are big investments, these will result to better resources and more projects for the city,” Treñas stressed.

Megaworld is planning to invest another P1.5 billion to put up a business process outsourcing center, hotel and convention center in developing the area.

It has paid the Department of Finance (DOF) P1.2 billion in cash as payment for the property few weeks ago.

Treñas said the transfer tax represents three-fourths of one percent of the P1.2 billion that was paid by the Megaworld to the DOF for the purchase of the old airport site.

The transfer tax is the share of the local government unit (LGU) once the private investor buys a real property within the LGU’s jurisdiction.

Good news, another savings to our city.:banana: :banana:
Amo ni sya ang gina hambal nga desidido gd ang megaworld mag invest, ara dayon,naga tupa. inde pareho sa mga local projects ta nga ma buta anay sang controversies asta nga matapos ang projects. hay tani inde lang masudlan sang politika ang project nga ine.

[spacewagon1]

Megaworld turns over to gov’t P1.2-B payment for former Iloilo airport
By Iris C. Gonzales
Thursday, October 11, 2007

Andrew Tan-owned Megaworld Corp. has turned over to the National Government its P1.2 billion payment for the acquisition of the 54.5-hectare Iloilo airport property in Mandurriao, Iloilo City, giving government’s privatization and fund-raising efforts a major boost.

Representatives of the property firm the other day sealed the sale agreement with the government represented by Finance Secretary Margarito Teves.

Outgoing Finance Undersecretary for Privatization John Sevilla said the full amount of P1.2 billion would be remitted to the Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) this month.

Monica Salomon, first vice president for corporate management of Megaworld said the company would be coming out with its plan for the property within 60 days. “But it’s going to be mixed-used.

We will be putting up facilities for business process outsourcing (BPOs) operations and for hotels and conventions,” Salomon told reporters after the signing ceremony.

She said Megaworld is investing an initial P1.5 billion for the development of the property, particularly the BPO facilities.

In an earlier disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange, Megaworld also said it plans to build educational facilities aimed at manpower requirements of call centers and other business offices.

It plans to apply with the Philippine Economic Zone Authority for a special economic zone license and turn the old airport lot into a business district.

Asked if Megaworld would be looking into other government properties to develop in the future, Salomon said the company is constantly on the lookout for possible acquisitions.

The sale of the Iloilo property is part of the government’s privatization program. This year alone, the Department of Finance expects to raise P86.1 billion from the sale of state-owned assets and roughly P30 to P35 billion next year.

Aside from the Iloilo property, the government is eyeing to sell this year its stake in the Philippine International Trading Corp. (P25.2 billion), its remaining stake in Philippine National Oil Co.-Energy Development Corp. (P39 billion), its 4.6 percent stake in Philippine National Bank (P998 million) and the Fujimi property in Japan worth P3 billion.

The government is doing its best to manage its deficit, sell its state-owned assets and raise revenues with the objective of wiping out the budget deficit by 2008.

The government hopes to trim the budget deficit to P63 billion this year and wipe this out by 2008 or two years ahead of the original 2010 deadline.

source: Philippine Star (http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Business&p=49&type=2&sec=27&aid=2007101079)

[IAMME]

From the Iloilo City Tourism Office:
http://img529.imageshack.us/img529/2268/iloilodinagyangeo1.jpg

[COLLIN JASPER]

From the Iloilo City Tourism Office:
http://img529.imageshack.us/img529/2268/iloilodinagyangeo1.jpg
Dinagyang 2008 will be the most exciting event ever.

[eonynx]

MOC for UPV land use plan inked
By Lyncen M. Fernandez

Land disputes are often a messy and complicated problem.

There is a delicate balance between protecting the rights of the rightful owner and considering the welfare of informal settlers.

The University of the Philippines-Visayas has long grappled with the situation involving the informal settlers that encroached its 10-plus-hectare land in Iloilo City.
A brief look at its history explains why things have come to be what they are now.

Iloilo City, like the rest of the country, was caught in the frenzy of rebuilding from the rubbles of the Second World War after 1945.

City officials at that time, led by Don Fernando Lopez, dreamed of a UP education in Iloilo City and passed a resolution for this happen.

They must have worked very hard such that, by July 1947, UP Iloilo College opened its door to Ilonggos.

The new college occupied a lot that was donated by the Iloilo City Government with the condition that the said donation would remain in place as long as the donee needed the site and building for educational purposes.

The UP administration has allowed for self-built houses to be constructed on its property by employees due to the absence of UP housing units.

Sixty years later, UPIC (now UP Visayas), occupies only around four hectares for its building and school facilities out of its almost 10-hectare property. The remaining land is already occupied by informal settlers who have already settled on considerable portions of the undeveloped and unprotected property.

The “UPV Iloilo City Campus Land Property: Development and Management Options” is a project that will come up with a profile of the UPV Iloilo City community and an inventory of its prospective beneficiaries.

The proponents of the project are Prof. Rhodella A. Ibabao of the College of management and Prof. Jose A. Go of the College of Arts and Sciences.

From these data, management and development options of UPV Iloilo City campus property will be formulated.

The project will also come up with a demographic and socio-economic profile of the current residents who reside outside the perimeter wall of the campus. It will make an inventory of prospective beneficiaries that the UP administration will initiate.

The project will also describe the perceptions of settlers regarding their conditions and sentiments on their tenuous status.

It will also take into account the sentiments of concerned agencies on the utilization and development of the property outside the perimeter wall of the campus and will provide options for managing the use of the University’s property based on the results of the study.

On October 8, 2007, the UPV represented by Chancellor Glenn D. Aguilar, signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with the Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor (PCUP), the Iloilo City Urban Poor Affairs Office (ICUPAO), and the Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC).

Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas sent ICUPAO Chairman Romy H. Firmeza on his behalf.

In his speech read by Firmeza, the Mayor said that the signing of the MOC should bode well for the people of Iloilo City, particularly for the less-privileged sector.

The Mayor was optimistic that the MOC will turn out in the best interest of all concerned especially the urban poor.

He was also hopeful that it will spawn opportunities for them to be productive and will make them help turn the wheels of progress by carrying part of the load demanded by growth and development. A brief look at its history explains why things have come to be what they are now.

Iloilo City, like the rest of the country, was caught in the frenzy of rebuilding from the rubbles of the Second World War after 1945.

City officials at that time, led by Don Fernando Lopez, dreamed of a UP education in Iloilo City and passed a resolution for this happen.

They must have worked very hard such that, by July 1947, UP Iloilo College opened its door to Ilonggos.

The new college occupied a lot that was donated by the Iloilo City Government with the condition that the said donation would remain in place as long as the donee needed the site and building for educational purposes.

The UP administration has allowed for self-built houses to be constructed on its property by employees due to the absence of UP housing units.

Sixty years later, UPIC (now UP Visayas), occupies only around four hectares for its building and school facilities out of its almost 10-hectare property. The remaining land is already occupied by informal settlers who have already settled on considerable portions of the undeveloped and unprotected property.

The “UPV Iloilo City Campus Land Property: Development and Management Options” is a project that will come up with a profile of the UPV Iloilo City community and an inventory of its prospective beneficiaries.

The proponents of the project are Prof. Rhodella A. Ibabao of the College of management and Prof. Jose A. Go of the College of Arts and Sciences.

From these data, management and development options of UPV Iloilo City campus property will be formulated.

The project will also come up with a demographic and socio-economic profile of the current residents who reside outside the perimeter wall of the campus. It will make an inventory of prospective beneficiaries that the UP administration will initiate.

The project will also describe the perceptions of settlers regarding their conditions and sentiments on their tenuous status.

It will also take into account the sentiments of concerned agencies on the utilization and development of the property outside the perimeter wall of the campus and will provide options for managing the use of the University’s property based on the results of the study.

On October 8, 2007, the UPV represented by Chancellor Glenn D. Aguilar, signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with the Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor (PCUP), the Iloilo City Urban Poor Affairs Office (ICUPAO), and the Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC).

Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas sent ICUPAO Chairman Romy H. Firmeza on his behalf.

In his speech read by Firmeza, the Mayor said that the signing of the MOC should bode well for the people of Iloilo City, particularly for the less-privileged sector.

The Mayor was optimistic that the MOC will turn out in the best interest of all concerned especially the urban poor.

He was also hopeful that it will spawn opportunities for them to be productive and will make them help turn the wheels of progress by carrying part of the load demanded by growth and development.

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

i wonder where this will lead to? will upv city campus reclaim the remaining 6 hectares of its land from informal settlers or will there be an acceptable compromise between the two? @iamme or @bernie, any ideas regarding this?

[habagatcentral1]

Regarding the flyover issue. Haynaku, here we go again. Its just like what happened to Pier 5 (sakto ba ina) of the Jalandoni Bridge which harboured its delay. The said beam was said to be sinking, only to be reinforced later and now operational.

These controversies are nothing new in the country anyway.

And where did you get the idea of demolishing the said construction? I've seen to much stupid projects of DPWH such as that of Loboc, Bohol in which the bridge was to destroy the 3 centuries old stone church (the good news is that it didn't pushed through, bad news is...another white elephant). It would be a very obvious stupidity if we are to demolish it.

[spacewagon1]

i love the poster for Dinagyang and Paraw Regatta. Looks like next year's battle for ATOP will be between these two festivals.

[habagatcentral1]

For more pictures of the Iloilo Airport, just go to the NIA thread. I'll be posting more next week. :)

http://images.habagatcentral.multiply.com/image/2/photos/55/500x500/68/IMGP0179.JPG?et=61JZ0IMpz6nVV5wUMtco1g

[habagatcentral1]

By the way, may we suggest (but depends on the rest of the forumers) if they would add up "Province" in our title of the thread? IMO, I don't want the city and the province be seperated as they have been traditionally inseperable.

[iloilocitykid]

^^ Bern sorry about that. I was the one who made the post and I totally forget we had the province by our side. To the mods, please feel free to change anything. Thank you. :)

[iloilocitykid]

http://img410.imageshack.us/img410/8369/imgp2876wg6.jpg
:dance: :banana2: :eek2:

This is lovely.

I hope it will be one of the top universities in the country, being able to compete with its sister in Manila.

I just hope there'll be no gang wars between the UP's and Ateneo's students. It happens a lot nowadays.

[habagatcentral1]

^^ Bern sorry about that. I was the one who made the post and I totally forget we had the province by our side. To the mods, please feel free to change anything. Thank you. :)

Ngek! Ngaa ma-sorry ka toto? Waay man ko na-offend, wahehehehe!!! Its just a suggestion and everyone is free to decide.

As what the quote from Cebu Capitol says:
"The Authority of the Government Emanates from the People", wahehehehe!!! :D

[iloilocitykid]

^^ :lol: Basi may na offend ya, noh di bala?!

Nong bern, what's the news you were keeping regarding NIA? Will it have international flights? It's ok if it's just a hunch but at least we'll have the idea that there are tourists keen on going here.

[habagatcentral1]

^^ Basta, I'll just make it as a secret unless there would be a press statement regarding it. :D

By the way, UP and Ateneo frat wars? Looks like its a distant possibility in Iloilo, wahehehe!! :D

[iloilocitykid]

:okay:

Regarding the frat wars, well we never know. Tulukanay lang gani may napatay na...I hope it won't happen here in Iloilo.

[COLLIN JASPER]

http://img410.imageshack.us/img410/8369/imgp2876wg6.jpg
:dance: :banana2: :eek2:

This is lovely.

I hope it will be one of the top universities in the country, being able to compete with its sister in Manila.

I just hope there'll be no gang wars between the UP's and Ateneo's students. It happens a lot nowadays.

the rendering is great, hope that they expand the access road, kay daw 2 lanes man lang ang bag-o nga kalsada dira. 4 lanes is great

[iloilocitykid]

^^ 2 lines ang road...at the moment. But the area it covers is wide enough to fit four lanes plus center islands.

[habagatcentral1]

^^ At least they alloted allowances for the expansion of the Diversion-Tabucan Road into a four-laned road.

[COLLIN JASPER]

so we will wait for another a year to make the budget enough for the construction of Ateneo, since they start receiving the donation last year, so far they collected 80M+ Not bad.

[iloilocitykid]

^^ They're excellent in terms of collecting money. I wish Jaro Cathedral were like them.

[habagatcentral1]

Tan-awa lang anay. Seryoso katama sa mga istorya ta. :D
Benjo at ang Paglalakbay by Talibong1

WWxb4DMbG2o
Voiced by Collin Jasper himself, bwahahahahahahahah!!!!! :lol: :lol:

[iloilocitykid]

^^ Ayus bord! :lol:
Kick out lang galing si talibong1 eh...

[iloilocitykid]

DPWH 6 to take over completion of Infante flyover
By Maricar M. Calubiran

The regional office of Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) will undertake the completion of the P400 million Infante flyover.

This was confirmed yesterday by Mayor Jerry Treñas after he met with Director Emil Sadain of Project Management Office (PMO) of the DPWH central office last Friday.

Treñas learned that all the contracts for the on going President's Bridge program in the different parts of country were suspended after contractor Mabey & Johnson Ltd. failed to follow the project specifications of the bridges as stipulated in the contract.

It was not immediately known on how many contracts in the Philippines were awarded to Mabey & Johnson Ltd. which is a United Kingdom-based construction firm.

In Iloilo City, among the discrepancies noted in the project construction are the piers 2, 3, 4 and 5. The contractor likewise has remaining works to do such as the embankment, approaches, concreting of abutment and part of the retaining wall in approaches.

The Infante flyover is a six-span modular steel bridge supported by board piles, piers and abutments.

Treñas said the piers have to be upgraded and reinforced. Nevertheless, he was assured by Sadain that it is still safe to use the Infante vehicular flyover as all discrepancies in the original project design will be remedied.

He said he is primarily concern of the structural design and safety of all the end users of the vehicular flyover.

When asked on why the discrepancy was only discovered after the vehicular flyover was already 90 percent complete, Treñas said he has no idea on whether those responsible for the project construction checked on the details of the project the way it should be constructed.

The vehicular flyover here topped the list of high impact projects of the DPWH. The project is being undertaken and supervised by the President's Bridge Program Office of the Department of Public Works and Highways Central Office. The regional office of the department has no control over the project construction.

The delay in the completion of the vehicular flyover eventually caused delay in its operation. The city government is looking forward on the assurance made by DPWH officials that the vehicular flyover will be operational by December, said Treñas.

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


Oh well...better than nothing. :)

[iloilocitykid]

Drivers end strike
By Maricar M. Calubiran

Instead of bowing down to pressure, City Mayor Jerry Treñas called on drivers of public utility jeepneys (PUJs) belonging to towns under the defunct Metro Iloilo Development Council (MIDC) to bear the inconvenience as what the city is doing is for the good of the general public.

Treñas met with Iloilo Governor Niel Tupas Sr. and MIDC town mayors the other day to address the concerns of the jeepney drivers affected by the traffic experimentation being implemented by the city government.

PUJs from MIDC towns namely Oton, Leganes, San Miguel and Sta. Barbara stayed off the streets on Monday and Tuesday to show their protest to the traffic experiment which shortened their existing routes. They resumed operations yesterday.

The meeting facilitated by Gov. Tupas was attended by Pavia Mayor Arcadio Gorriceta, San Miguel Mayor Greg Villarico, Oton Mayor Vincent Flores, Sta. Barbara Mayor Isabelo Maquino, Leganes Mayor Adolfo Jaen and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) regional director Porfirio Clavel.

Treñas maintained that the city government would go on with the 30-day traffic experimentation to see if it helps address the city's traffic problem.

Treñas was saddened by the strike conducted by the drivers as it was barely a week since the experimentation was implemented.

He said it is just normal that resistance occurs every time change is effected but he appealed for the drivers' understanding and open-mindedness.

Treñas further said that he has no vested interest with regard to the conduct of traffic experimentation. He said they are just looking for ways to address the city's worsening traffic problem.

He added that the traffic experimentation will not only affect provincial PUJs but also the city loop PUJs. In fact, he said an executive order is underway to make some rerouting on certain city loop PUJs.

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

This is good but Metro Iloilo Development Council is defunct? I don't understand why...

[iloilocitykid]

City drivers back traffic experiment
By Maricar M. Calubiran

Drivers associations belonging to the city loop routes expressed full support to the 30-day traffic experimentation being implemented by the city government.

Two drivers associations came out with statements of support to the traffic experiment amid complaints raised by drivers groups from the Metro Iloilo Development Council (MIDC) towns, namely, Oton, San Miguel, Sta. Barbara and Leganes.

Iloilo City Alliance of Jeepney Operators and Drivers Association (ICAJODA) Inc., headed by its president Vulcan Espinosa, on Monday passed a resolution expressing full support to the month-long traffic experimentation. The resolution was signed by 21 drivers associations under ICAJODA.

The resolution stated that vehicles passing the identified traffic areas have lessened since the traffic experimentation began last October 1.

Another umbrella organization, the Iloilo City Alliance of Drivers Association (ICADA) led by its president Nicasio Dalisay also issued a statement of support to the traffic experimentation. ICADA said the initial implementation of the traffic experiment "gained positive results."

The ICADA statement of support was signed by 21 active transport organizations that practically has the same members with ICAJODA. The statement was approved by its members last Monday.

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

This could have been a reason for the pronvincial jeep's end of strike. :)

[iloilocitykid]

http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/10/11/kids.play_tn.jpg
Fun is etched on the faces of this two kids gleefully playing on a boat docking at Muelle Loney wharf.

I really salute the photographer for this. :cheers: THe picture really tells me that despite the high economic background of the city with poverty ranging everywhere, the poor can still show a smile and have fun. :cheers:

[iloilocitykid]

TRICKY TAIWAN TRIP
Treñas faces criminal, administrative raps

By DAVID ISRAEL SINAY

ILOILO City – The Responsible Ilonggos for Sustainable Energy (RISE) filed criminal and administrative complaints against Mayor Jerry Teñas before the Office of the Ombudsman Visayas over his recent trip to Taiwan.

RISE is a coalition of non-governmental, people’s organizations, and civic groups here. Lawyer Romeo Gerochi specifically accused this city’s chief executive criminally for violation of Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees, and administratively for grave misconduct.

The complaint was endorsed by Green Forum – Western Visayas, Professionals for Social Responsibility and Freedom from Debt Coalition (FDC) – Iloilo. Gerochi chairs the FDC.

The complaint stemmed from the Taiwan trip made by Treñas though the invitation of Formosa Heavy Industries Corp. (FHIC) on September 28 to 29.

FHIC is the technical partner of Global Business Power Corp. that proposes to put up a 100-megawatt coal-fired power plant in this city.

Treñas had admitted that the proponents shouldered the expenses for his two-day trip.

Gerochi said that the trip, with the expenses shouldered by the proponent, was unlawful.

He cited Section 7, paragraph (iii) of the Code stating prohibited acts and transactions by public officials. One of these is “the acceptance by a public official or employee of travel grants or expenses for travel taking place entirely outside the Philippines (such as allowances, transportation, food, and lodging) or more than nominal value if such acceptance is appropriate or consistent with the interests of the Philippines, and permitted by the head of office, branch or agency to which he belongs.”

Treñas pooh-poohed the complaint.

“Let them file (it). Everyone is entitled to their (sic) own opinion,” Treñas said, “I don’t find anything wrong (with the Taiwan trip).”

He also stressed that his travel was authorized by the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG).

Aside from this, “(FHIC) is not a contractor of the city. There are no approvals (needed from) my office for the proponent to put up the (coal-fired) plant,” said Treñas, lawyer by profession.

Treñas cited Department of Environment and Natural Resources Memorandum Circular No. 2007-08 dated July 13, 2007 stating “no permits, and/or clearances issued by the national government agencies and local government units shall be required in the processing of environmental compliance certificate (ECC) or certificate of non-coverage (CNC).”

“I made no violation,” Treñas stressed.

Upon his return to this city, Treñas concluded that a coal-fired power plant can do no harm even if it is situated in a thickly populated area.

“(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. It 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.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------
These so called green groups do not have anything else to throw at. They're at a loss at the power plant issue and now, they just file a case against Mayor J even if there's no harm in what he did. :ohno:

Basi subsidiary sang Bayan Muna ang mga Green Groups nga ni...:ohno:

[iloilocitykid]

Regional housing fair ’07

The Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC) will hold the Western Visayas Housing Fair 2007 October 23-25 at the Iloilo provincial capitol lobby.

The fair is themed “Serbisyong Tapat, abot-Kayang Pabahay Para sa Lahat.”

The fair is held in coordination with other shelter agencies like the PAG-IBIG Fund (HMDF), National Housing Authority (NHA), National Home Mortgage Finance Corporation (NHMFC), Housing and Land Regulatory Board (HLRB) and other government financial institutions.

The main purpose of the event is the disposition of acquired properties of the key shelter agencies and the government financial institutions at a discounted rate, as well as the newly built housing units of the private developers.

The expected target market will include government and private employees and the Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW).

Organizers of the Housing Fair are inviting all working sectors, the families of OFWs, barangay officials, teachers and students and LGU representatives, including officers of cooperatives, to visit the event and see the different types and model houses.

Pag-IBIG Fund OIC Branch manager Ma. Lourdes Z. Uy said some 14 private developers will display their program/project packages for sale. They are also expected to present during the technical sessions on the second day.

The Fair will start with a motorcade and opening program on October 23 at the Iloilo Provincial Capitol lobby. (PIA 6/ESS)

[spacewagon1]

so we will wait for another a year to make the budget enough for the construction of Ateneo, since they start receiving the donation last year, so far they collected 80M+ Not bad.

^^ They're excellent in terms of collecting money. I wish Jaro Cathedral were like them.
80 million is enough to start the construction of few buildings for Ateneo. I thinktheir budget is almost 100-million. Once the construction starts, money will start pouring. It's the same as CPU. We always want the foundation before donation starts pouring. Kadali lang mangita bulig kung naga-umpisa na. Pero kung wala pa, people will be in doubts [a.

[spacewagon1]

the rendering is great, hope that they expand the access road, kay daw 2 lanes man lang ang bag-o nga kalsada dira. 4 lanes is great

^^ 2 lines ang road...at the moment. But the area it covers is wide enough to fit four lanes plus center islands.

the plan looks grand IMO. I ope they'll start to develop AdI campus as soon as. $ lanes with centre islands s a very welcome development indeed.

[iloilocitykid]

80 million is enough to start the construction of few buildings for Ateneo. I thinktheir budget is almost 100-million. Once the construction starts, money will start pouring. It's the same as CPU. We always want the foundation before donation starts pouring. Kadali lang mangita bulig kung naga-umpisa na. Pero kung wala pa, people will be in doubts [a.

Well, CPU's alumni are VERY supportive of their alma mater. Many projects (buildings, school stuff) being built every year, in my opinion and most of them were from the alumni.

I don't know the case with the Ateneo de Iloilo...

[iloilocitykid]

The Dinagyang U.S. Tour Show at SM City Iloilo

SM City Iloilo was host to the ECD (Edwin C. Duero) Dance Company of the Philippines' "Arrival Performance" last Oct. 8, 2007 of the group who were sent by the Iloilo City Government to the United States to showcase Dinagyang Festival to the Filipino communities in the states as well as tourists and residents of the areas.

This momentous activity showcased the dances of this Iloilo-based dance company, which they featured in the United States last June 2007. By holding presentations before the Filipino community in San Antonio, Texas
and Minneapolis, Minnesota, our brothers and sisters abroad were made aware that there is such a thing as "cultural excellence" in Iloilo City. More than 60,000 people in America witnessed the presentation, according to Ben Jimena, executive director of the Iloilo Dinagyang Foundation, Inc. (IDFI).

Eight females, eight male dancers and six technical members were part of the delegation. Their trip was sponsored by the Philippine Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) in coordination with the national government, city government and the IDFI.

Jimena added that another proof of cultural excellence is Dinagyang Festival's bagging the "Best Tourism Event for 2007" award in the national convention of the Association of Tourism Officers in the Philippines (ATOP) held in Camarines Sur last Oct. 5, 2007. This was Dinagyang Festival's second win in the said convention. It garnered the same award in 2006.

Iloilo's Paraw Regatta won as second runner-up.

"We are attempting to make Dinagyang Festival ‘larger than life'," Jimena said. "We will involve not only Iloilo but Filipino communities abroad. We are going to revive the drum and bugle competition and we are working on extraordinary tribe performances for Dinagyang 2008."

The cultural dances in SM City Iloilo were followed by a fashion show by Hector Gellangarin. He showcased some of the best Filipiniana designs ever created. The finale was a contemporary Dinagyang Ati-Ati performance.

The mall event was spearheaded by SM City Iloilo, The Iloilo City Government, The Iloilo Dinagyang Foundation Inc.(IDFI) and Department of Tourism 6.

This is not the only exciting event that one can look forward to in SM City Iloilo. Expect more fun-filled happenings in the Ultimate Shopping and Entertainment Destination --— SM City Iloilo.

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

Dinagyang is already the best (that's a fact) in the country! Now what it needs is it to be the best in Southeast Asia and soon Asia and soon still, the world! :)

[spacewagon1]

Well, CPU's alumni are VERY supportive of their alma mater. Many projects (buildings, school stuff) being built every year, in my opinion and most of them were from the alumni.

I don't know the case with the Ateneo de Iloilo...
as long as it's for the best of CPU, we are all support.

Btw: for all Centralians:

5th GLOBAL REUNION will be in Las Vegas, Nevada, USA - 2008

Details available in CPU Website.

I hope I can go with Wecky if he decides to go for this Global Reunion again. The Canada last 2003 scares everyone here in Europe due to SARS. And even people in US is in minimum. They just 100 or more. For Europe, 2 people attended, one from Sweden and one here in UK. Australia has also one representativ. I hope the Las Vegas one will be more global in nature as we're expecting more people coming from Europe, Australia, Mid-East, other parts of Asia and The Philippines to come and gather for our dear alma mater.

Watch out guys !

[spacewagon1]

The Dinagyang U.S. Tour Show at SM City Iloilo

....

Dinagyang is already the best (that's a fact) in the country! Now what it needs is it to be the best in Southeast Asia and soon Asia and soon still, the world! :)

that's why it is the only festival supported by United Nations until the present. Gracie ! :banana: :banana: :banana:

[iloilocitykid]

^^ Really? I didn't know that. Talagang the best tayo!

[Ex!lE]

tanong lang po.

usually ilang contingents ang sumasali sa dinagyang at ilan dito ang out of town contingents? :)

[iloilocitykid]

^^ I don't know exactly but most towns in the province sends their representative and most public schools in the city have their own such as Bola bola.

[Ex!lE]

may contingents din ba galing sa Bacolod at sa ibang Is.? thanks.

[iloilocitykid]

^^ Nope. They have Masskara.

[Ex!lE]

walang out of town contingents na nanggagaling sa ibang Is.? sana makabisita ulit ako sa Iloilo.:)

[iloilocitykid]

^^ For the 2008 Festival, the website Dinagyang (http://www.dinagyangfoundation.com) doesn't yet show the contesting Ati Tribes. We'll know more in the future.

I hope you can visit us here. You're always welcome.

[Ex!lE]

thanks. sana i tour ako ni bernie. :D

[iloilocitykid]

Megaworld, DOF to ink Iloilo airport sale

By Jeehan V. Fernandez

http://thedailyguardian.com/images/stories/frontO12.jpg


(L-R) Monica Salomon, Megaworld first vice president for corporate management; Lourdes Clemente, Megaworld senior vice president for finance and administration; Finance Secretary Gary Teves; and Patrick Ty of the Department of Finance sign the sale and purchase agreement sealing Megaworld’s purchase of the 54.5-hectare old Iloilo airport in Mandurriao, Iloilo City for P1.2 billion.TOP executives of giant real estate developer Megaworld Corp. and Department of Finance (DOF) will arrive here for the ceremonial signing of sale of the 54-hectare old airport property in Mandurriao, Iloilo City at the Sarabia Manor Hotel and Convention Center today.

TOP executives of giant real estate developer Megaworld Corp. and Department of Finance (DOF) will arrive here for the ceremonial signing of sale of the 54-hectare old airport property in Mandurriao, Iloilo City at the Sarabia Manor Hotel and Convention Center today.

Mayor Jerry Treñas and other city government officials will witness the signing of the sale documents that will signal the start of airport site developments. “We are happy with this single biggest investment in the city. They (Megaworld) are already preparing the master plan,” Treñas told reporters.

Megaworld has earlier signed a sale and purchase agreement with the Philippine Government in Manila for the purchase of the old Iloilo airport. The property developer paid the DOF P1.2 billion cash as payment for the property.

The firm is also planning to invest P1.5 billion to develop a business process outsourcing (BPO) center, hotel and convention center in the old airport area.

Megaworld, which pioneered the development of cyber-parks, foresees that BPO companies will be interested to set up offices in the Visayas region.

Thus, they plan to put up an Information and Communications Technology (ICT) park in the city’s prime lot to boost the BPO sector.

The BPO industry includes call centers, medical and legal transcriptions, software development, architecture and animation using state-of-the-art computer technology.

Iloilo is considered the center of trade and commerce and education being the home of prominent universities in Panay Island.

Megaworld will apply for a special economic zone license with the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (Peza) to transform the old airport property into a new business district.

It envisions a Peza-accredited business hub which offers tax incentives to become a magnet for major BPO companies interested to expand in the metropolis.

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

“They (Megaworld) would not find it difficult to get the necessary permits at the City Hall. We will make it easy for them to invest in the city. They are very serious with the investments,” Treñas stressed.

“The acquisition of the old airport shows confidence for the economy and growth of Iloilo City—this is a big investment,” he pointed out.

Megaworld paid the City Hall its P9-million transfer tax Tuesday.

“If there are big investments, these will result to better resources and more projects for the city,” Treñas said.

He explained that the transfer tax represents three-fourths of one percent of the P1.2 billion that was paid by the Megaworld to the DOF for the purchase of old airport site.

The transfer tax is the share of the local government unit (LGU) once the private investor buys a real property within the LGU’s jurisdiction.

[iloilocitykid]

Old airport privatization to boost Iloilo economy

THE national government, through the Department of Finance, has signed an agreement selling the 54-hectare old Iloilo airport property in Mandurriao, Iloilo City to publicly listed Megaworld Corp. for P1.2 billion.

The transaction represents the first major privatization of a real estate asset located outside of Metro Manila.

Secretary Gary Teves said “the sale of the old Iloilo airport property will not only generate revenues for the national government, but will also pave the way for a billion-peso development by Megaworld that will attract tourists and investors, and lead to more jobs and revenues for Iloilo.”

Proceeds from the sale of the property will go to the national treasury and will help finance the government’s delivery of vital infrastructure and social services.

Once revenues from the sale have been booked, it will bring the total receipts from privatization up to P43.2 billion year-to-date and help the national government achieve its P63 billion budget deficit target for 2007.

Iloilo mayor Jerry Trenas lauded the government’s privatization policy for its many economic benefits, including the positive impact on provincial development.

“We welcome the sale and Megaworld’s promise to invest P1.5 billion in the development of the property. The development will result in higher investment and economic activity in the province.”

Megaworld has announced plans to build a hotel, convention facilities, and business process outsourcing offices on the property. The real estate developer has also said it plans to apply with the Philippine Economic Zone Authority for a special economic zone license for the development.

Megaworld is one of four groups that expressed strong interest in the purchase of the property, reflecting the attractiveness of Iloilo as an investment destination.

The property sold to Megaworld used to be the site of the Iloilo airport, which has since transferred to a sprawling 188-hectare site between the towns of Cabatuan and Santa Barbara northwest of Iloilo City.

Apart from the DOF and the City of Iloilo, agencies that also contributed to the success of the transaction include the Air Transportation Office, the Department of Transportation and Communication, the Department of Justice, and the Department of Budget and Management.

[iloilocitykid]

Ilonggos celebrate family week with prayers, vows

ILONGGOS celebrated the National Filipino Family Week here with not just the usual fun and laughter activities for the family, this time, with ecumenical prayers and pledge of commitment of various agencies to provide services for families left behind.

The week began with a Family Day of the DSWD Field Office VI on September 24, 2007.

It was a day filled with lectures on enhancing family relationships and keeping the bond between husbands and wives.

On Tuesday, a motorcade participated by the different line agencies, Local Government Units, Non-Government Organizations and Religious organizations was conducted in major thoroughfares of Iloilo City.

The group converged at the Church of the Latter Day Saints in Lapaz where an opening program for the Family Week was held.

Guests during the activity were Councilor Jeffrey Ganzon of Iloilo City and Provincial Administrator Boy Mejorada. The highlights of this program include the awarding of cash prizes to families which displayed with them banners and the ecumenical prayers rendered by representatives from different religious denominations.

From September 26 to 27, line agencies and other organizations conducted their own activities in their respective offices such as forum and media guestings.

On September 28, the Regional Office initiated in the conduct of the Social Welfare and Development (SWD) Forum entitled, “Famlies Left Behind,” the highlight of which was the pledge of commitment to provide services for families of migrant workers left behind of line agencies of the government—including Department of Labor and Employment, Department of Foreign Affairs, PhilHealth, Department of Education, Population Commission, Department of Interior and Local Government, National Economic Development Authority, among others.

During the forum, two mothers, a father and a son left behind by their partners working abroad were invited to share their experiences. Three experts were also invited to provide inputs— Dr. Daisy L. Chua-Daquilanea (Psychiatrist); Ma. Corazon Tolentino-Berjes (Psychologist); and Sr. Ma. Serafica Tolentino, OP. from the religious sector.

The activity was attended by OIC Regional Director Teresita S. Rosales and Assistant Regional Director Joel P. Galicia./mcastillo

[COLLIN JASPER]

Welcome to Iloilo Megaworld!!!:banana: :banana: :banana:
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2406/1546234757_58e90e383c.jpg?v=0
:dance: :dance: :dance:

[IMPRESARIO]

Exciting times for the City, I love this City above all else, walang kokontra! heheh

Hope I can go home for the '08 Dinagyang,Regatta.

Exciting man ang Grand Reunion sa Vegas sang CPU, i'll plan to go with my sis too, yey!

[chymera00]

^^ Ayus bord! :lol:
Kick out lang galing si talibong1 eh...

not true

[iloilocitykid]

^^ Wala siya na kick out?

Anyway, Coffeebreak is opening a new branch beside Metro Bank along Gen. Luna St.

[iloilocitykid]

http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/10/12/police.agility.test_tn.jpg
PIO-PRO 6
Police applicants undergo agility to test their stamina and physical prowess inside Camp Martin Delgado.

[iloilocitykid]

Treñas rejects LTFRB's odd-even scheme proposal

By Maricar M. Calubiran

City Mayor Jerry Treñas has rejected the proposal of Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) regional director Porfirio Clavel to implement the "odd-even scheme" to address the city's traffic problems.

Treñas said the odd-even scheme, which is being used in Metro Manila, is not applicable to Iloilo City.

The odd-even scheme regulates motor vehicles on the streets by way of its plate numbers.

Treñas said most of the people here belong to middle class families having only one vehicle.

Clavel made his suggestion in the recent meeting with the chief executive, Gov. Niel Tupas Sr. and municipal mayors beloging to Metro Iloilo Development Council (MIDC).

While the odd-even scheme would decrease the number of vehicles plying on the streets it could also cause burden among the riding public, said Treñas.

Meanwhile, Treñas said he is determined to continue the traffic experimentation to get a real picture and solution to the city's traffic problem. "They should first give the city a chance to implement the traffic experimentation," he said.

Meanwhile, municipal mayors who are members of the Metro Iloilo Guimaras Economic Development Council (MIGEDC) will join in the capability training for the three-year traffic development plan funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

The training cost $ 500,000 assistance is in form of technical support. They are currently having a planning workshop which focuses on Capacity Enhancement Program' and has the formulation of a Multi-Stakeholder Transport Planning and Traffic Management Improvement in MIGEDC.

The chief executive said the mayor's participation was included because they want a final three year traffic development plan. Two Japanese experts are here to oversee the capability training and implementation of the different process and procedures in relation to the creation of the traffic plan involving the MIGEDC.

[iloilocitykid]

Mabilog, 7 councilors off to Taiwan for a tour on coal power plants

By Maricar M. Calubiran

Vice Mayor Jed Mabilog and seven members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod pushed through with their trip to Taiwan after the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) central office issued them a travel clearance.

The travel clearance for Mabilog along with Councilors Lyndon Acap, Julienne Baronda, Jose Espinosa III, Ely Estante Jr., Armand Parcon, Nielex Tupas and Eduardo Peñaredondo was approved by DILG Undersecretary Austere A. Panadero.

Mabilog and the councilors left Iloilo City yesterday (Thursday).

While, Councilors Marietta Orleans, Jeffrey Ganzon, Stevie Rey Abitang, Eldrid Antiquiera, Antonio Pesina, Erwin Plagata and Perla Zulueta did not join the trip.

Expenses for the trip as well as accommodation will be shouldered by Global Business Power Corp. (GBPC), owner of Panay Power Corporation which distributes the bulk of power in Iloilo City.

The two companies are proposing to build a 100-megawatt coal plant at the PPC plant site in Barangay Ingore in La Paz District here. It plans to tap technical assistance from the Taiwan-based Formosa Heavy Industries Corp. (FHIC), which operates the Asia Power Energy Corporation (APEC) coal plant in Mabalacat town in Pampanga.

In her authorization, Panadero said the city officials were allowed to travel from October 12 to 14,2007 for a study and observation tour on Clean Coal Technology. The same order contains conditions under DILG Memorandum Circular No. 2001- dated May 8, 2001.

Among the conditions for their trip are that no expenses shall be borne by the city government in connection with the travel; delegates have been properly cleared from money and property accountabilities and from any administrative charge or criminal case filed against each of them.

The travel approval for the vice mayor and seven councilors was issued last October 10, 2007, the same day some environmental advocates filed criminal and administrative complaint against Mayor Jerry Treñas for going to Taiwan.

Trenas's trip was also sponsored by GBPC. However, the mayor said he has done nothing wrong when he went to Taiwan since GPC, PPC and FHIC are not contractors or suppliers for any projects of the city government. He said his trip cannot be covered by prohibitions of the law because the coal-plant project does not need the approval of the city government.

Meanwhile, Atty. Romeo Gerochi also threatens to file criminal and administrative complaint against other city officials who will go to Taiwan.

[iloilocitykid]

Treñas urges ICPOC members to voice concerns

Mayor Jerry P. Treñas urged member-agencies of the Iloilo City Peace and Order Council (ICPOC) to express their concerns every meeting so that it will be addressed promptly.

The mayor made this statement during the regular monthly meeting of ICPOC held at the chief executive's office yesterday.

"I ask you not to hesitate to raise your concerns during our meeting so that I will know the problems that you or your organizations are having relevant to the peace and order situation of our city, and so that I or PNP city director Wesley Barayuga can address it accordingly," Treñas said.

Treñas believes that the membership of the council is ably represented by the various public and private sectors and can credibly assess the peace situation of the city.

He also ordered the city police to coordinate with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency and maximize their efforts to curb the illegal drug trade and reduce if not eliminate the proliferation of illicit substances.

Meanwhile, Treñas thanked the public and the private sector for supporting the current 30-day traffic experiment, which is the city's latest move to minimize traffic congestion.

The ICPOC is composed of Treñas as chair, vice-mayor Jed Mabilog as vice-chair and representatives from government offices and business, academic and religious sectors as members. (EAM/PIO)

[iloilocitykid]

Yap to keynote organic farming congress

Agriculture Secretary Arthur Yap will keynote the 4th National Organic Agriculture Congress which will be held on October 17-18 at the Sarabia Manor Hotel, Iloilo City. Sec. Yap will also award the winner of the Best organic Farm.

About 300 participants and guests are expected to attend the congress which carries the theme "Converging Thrusts for the organic Industry Development in the Philippines.

The event is organized by the Bureau of Agriculture and Fishery Product Standards of the Department of Agriculture and Fishery Product Standards of the Department of Agriculture headed by Dir. Gilbert Layesa, in cooperation with the Western Visayas Agriculture and Resources Research and development Consortium (WESVARRDEC) chaired by Prof. Marilou Ang-Lopez, and the Panay Organic Producers Association, Inc., headed by Ms. Dawn Jamandre.

Representatives from the IFOAM, Department of Trade and Industry, PCARRD, BAFPS and the Organic Producers Trade Association on the topics, "Overview of Organic Agriculture in the Philippines", "The Growing Global Demand for Organic Food", "Enabling Regulatory Mechanisms for Organic Agriculture", and "Organic Trade in the Philippines."

Other presentations in the congress will include "Organic Agriculture: A Winning Platform for Rural Development," "Internal Control System," "Negros: the Organic island," "Building Communities Through organic Agriculture," "Organic Banana: No longer the same Banana,: Nurturing Nature in Farming," "Organic Rice: Feeding the Community," and "Muscovado: The Sweet Success."

The organizers said sessions on Participatory Guarantee System and Organic Farm Conversion and Certification will also be part of the event.

They also said participation in the Congress is by invitation only and those interested can log on to the Website of the Bureau of Agriculture and Fisheries Product Standards at www.bafs.da.gov.ph. (PIA 6)

[iloilocitykid]

ICPO-PCR section top performance rating

The police community relations (PCR) and family protection and gender sensitivity sections of the Iloilo City Police Office headed by Senior Inspector Lourdes S. Banzuelo topped the 3rd quarter Performance Evaluation rating regionwide.

The rating was given by the Regional Police Community Relations Division of the Police Regional Office-6 headed by Senior Supt. Edwin R. Gabrinez.

The ICPO-PCR got a score of 156.72 points followed by Bacolod City Police Office with 155.16 out of the total of 162 points.

The PCR has been very active in various community-based activities such as the conduct of symposia, pulong-pulong, mass feeding, conferences, seminars with force multipliers and other activities geared towards winning the hearts and minds of the populace.

[COLLIN JASPER]

^^ Wala siya na kick out?

Anyway, Coffeebreak is opening a new branch beside Metro Bank along Gen. Luna St.
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2003/1551501101_1a65faae75.jpg?v=0
yeah they occupy that small area beside metro bank, they made the right idea of putting that coffee shop there. banks employee gd ang maka benefit sina.BPI, CITIBANK, METROBANK, another structure na naman ang maka padugang katahum sng gen luna.:banana: :banana: :banana:

[habagatcentral1]

Ng5iMon-wjY
Benjo: Ang Pagsalakay: The Rise of Black Bord

[Hard Ball]

ILOILO CITY--Megaworld Corp. will pour an initial investment of P1.5 billion into its newly acquired 54-hectare property, where the old Iloilo airport used to stand.

Megaworld, which acquired the property in Mandurriao District for P1.2 billion, plans to build a business park here.

"This is our first major investment outside of Manila," said Kingson Sian of Megaworld Corp. during Friday's turnover ceremony at the Sarabia Manor Hotel and Convention Center. "This shows how much we are bullish and committed to Iloilo."

Sian said the Iloilo site comprised half the land area of Megaworld's other properties.

Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas said Megaworld's project is the single biggest investment in Iloilo City.

"This is a historic turnover," said Treñas. "We will build a new city within a city."

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

It was the only firm among prospective buyers that submitted a bid that met the P1.2-billion minimum price set by the government for the property.

Robinson's Lands had submitted a bid of P1.09 billion; Empire East, P701 million and SM Prime, P435.79 million.

Megaworld plans to put up residential units; a hotel and convention center; commercial and retail stores; recreation centers and skills development facilities.

Sian said they are optimistic that Iloilo would become among the world's top business process outsourcing centers.

Employment in call centers are expected to increase from the 200,000 workers in 2006 to a million by 2010, said Sian.

Key to the investment is the manpower supply that is expected to be fulfilled by the many colleges and universities in the city.

Finance Secretary Margarito Teves, who attended the turnover rites, said the Megaworld investment "shows that there is a lot of potential in Iloilo."

http://business.inquirer.net/money/breakingnews/view_article.php?article_id=94128

[adelro2049]

wow, another first! sm delgado was the first sm outside metro manila and now megaworld's first major investment out of manila.

[COLLIN JASPER]

MEGAWORLD NEEDS 35MW OF POWER

By Francis Allan L. Angelo

PROPERTY developer Megaworld Corp. needs more than 30 megawatts of electricity to sustain its investments on the old Iloilo airport lot.

Megaworld executive director and senior vice-president Kingson Sian said they need 35MW of power to energize the Iloilo Business Park that the firm is planning to put up on the old airport property.

Sian said they envision a live-work-play-learn community to sprout from the lot.

Megaworld will spend P1.5 billion to put up business processes outsourcing (BPO) offices, residential units, hotels, convention center, commercial and retail outlets, skills training center, and recreational facilities (see related story on Page 1).

“We need stable supply of power because this will be a whole community, a city within a city,” Sian said.

Sian added that BPO investors and companies also require steady and uninterrupted supply of electricity because of its round-the-clock operations.

“We know that there are some problems as regards the power supply of Iloilo City but we are also confident that our local officials and the business leaders here will do something to solve this concern,” Sian said.

Megaworld, one of the largest property developers in the country, has hired the topnotch services of architectural firm Palafox Associates in drafting a development masterplan for the old airport lot.

Iloilo City mayor Jerry Treñas said Megaworld initially required 20MW of power in the initial stages of its investments.

“The city will find ways to address their requirement because of the investment that they are going to pour in here,” Treñas said.

Finance Secretary Margarito Teves, who graced the ceremonial turnover of the airport property at Sarabia Manor Hotel and Convention Center, said the issue of power supply is one concern that must be resolved to attract more investors in Iloilo.

“BPO investors really focus on the power supply because of their 24/7 operations. We can realize the investment and employment potentials of Iloilo in the BPO sector if we have stable and cheap supply of electricity,” Teves said.

Oscar Sañez, chief executive officer of the Business Processing Association of the Philippines (BPAP), said telecommunications and electricity are their top concerns when investing in a city or province.

Sañez said their group is very interested in Iloilo because of its manpower resources and modern telecom infrastructure.

“The price of power does not really concern us. As long we have stable supply—which means no sudden brownouts—the BPO sector will be willing to invest in Iloilo City,” Sañez said.

[COLLIN JASPER]

Iloilo to rise in BPO world map

By Jeehan V. Fernandez

GIANT real estate developer Megaworld Corp. yesterday vowed to put Iloilo in the world map of rising business process outsourcing (BPO) industry.
Megaworld top executives led by executive director and senior vice-president Kingson Sian arrived in Iloilo City yesterday for the turnover of 54-hectare old airport property in Mandurriao district at Sarabia Manor Hotel and Convention Center here.

“This is a rare opportunity for us to transform the site into a vibrant economic catalyst of Iloilo. Megaworld built its reputation throughout Manila and now we’re bringing that to Iloilo,” Sian told the audience.
“We are bringing development we hope all Ilonggos can be truly proud of—this is our first major investment outside of Metro Manila,” he stressed.

Sian said Megaworld is largest landlord of BPO companies in the Philippines and the fastest growing real estate company in the country.

Why is Megaworld bullish on the property market?

“We have identified five growth drivers including BPO, middle-income housing, power of OFWs, decreasing home mortgage rate and government infrastructure spending,” Sian explained.

“Megaworld envisions the Iloilo Business Park a live-work-play-learn community hosting BPO offices, residential units, hotels, convention center, commercial and retail outlets, skills training center, and recreational facilities,” he pointed out.

Sian said a theme park will become a hub for tourists.
Sian said BPO firms in one of their projects in Metro Manila employ some 17,000 persons and they expect the figure to rise in the coming years.

Megaworld bought the old airport lot at P1.2 billion which it paid in cash to the Department of Finance and plans to invest P1.5 billion to develop the area.

A pioneer in the development of cyber-parks, Megaworld foresees that BPO companies may be interested to set up offices in the Visayas region.

The BPO sector includes call centers, medical and legal transcriptions, software development, architecture and animation using state-of-the-art computer technology.

Megaworld will apply with the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (Peza) for a special economic zone license to transform the old airport property into a new business district.

A Peza-accredited business hub which offers tax incentives to become a magnet for major BPO companies interested to expand in the metropolis.

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


WISE INVESTMENT


Iloilo is considered the center of trade and commerce and education being host to several universities in Panay Island.

“One of the key factors for success is manpower availability. We are very satisfied with the quality of labor and there are lots of universities here as what we need. Major telecom players are already established here. There’s no reason why Iloilo should not be in the world map of BPO,” Sian said.

He was referring to headlines that Cebu, Pasig and Baguio have been cited among the world’s emerging BPO centers.

“We are very excited—this is a wise investment. Iloilo is a very progressive city with very cooperative local government unit and we want to be a part of that growth. We will create a community—we want to add and enhance to the city’s growth. We don’t want to wait any longer—the opportunity is there,” Sian stressed.

He was also optimistic that of adequate power supply which is vital especially to BPO center’s 24/7 operations while they need at least 35-MW power based on initial estimates.

“If the power concern is insurmountable, we could not have invested. But we are confident we could rise to the occasion and solve the problem,” said Sian.

Oscar Sañez, chief executive officer of the Business Processing Association of the Philippines, said Iloilo belongs to the “big city potential” category among prospective BPO locators because of its quality manpower and existing infrastructure.

“The telecommunications infra here is one of the most modern and it is improving. We have highly qualified manpower here because of the number of universities and students here. We in the BPO sector are very bullish on Iloilo’s potentials because of these factors,” Sañez said.

[COLLIN JASPER]

TreÑas excited on taxes, jobs from old airport dev’t

By Jeehan V. Fernandez

ILOILO City mayor Jerry Treñas yesterday expressed excitement on the turnover of 54-hectare old airport property in Mandurriao district to giant real estate developer Megaworld Corp. at Sarabia Manor Hotel and Convention Center here.

Department of Finance (DOF) secretary Margarito Teves and Kingson Sian, executive director and senior vice-president of Megaworld, led the turnover ceremony witnessed by city government officials and department heads, business groups and Association of Barangay Captains’ district presidents.

The mayor said he specifically invited officials of big firms Panay Power Corp. (PPC), Panay Electric Co. (Peco) and Metro Iloilo Water District (MIWD) “to see how much is needed for the airport site development so they could start working to meet the demand of power and water supplies.”

PPC is the bulk energy supplier while Peco is the lone power distributor in the metropolis.

MIWD provides potable water supply to its bulk of consumers in the metropolis.

“I am very happy and pleased that we have been witnesses to the historic turnover of the development of a ‘new city within a city’,” Treñas told the audience.“I am certain that we’re all excited about this single biggest investment in the city. I am excited not so much on the taxes that we receive although I’m excited but because of the jobs it will provide from construction to completion,” stressed Treñas.

“And the more sustainable jobs to be generated by the businesses to be put up there. We hope that it will provide the necessary jobs to the graduates here so that they will not have to go out to look for jobs abroad,” he affirmed.

Megaworld bought the old airport lot to the tune of P1.2 billion which it paid in cash to DOF even as it plans to invest P1.5 billion to put up a business process outsourcing (BPO) center, hotel and convention center in developing the area.

It has also paid the City Hall its P9-million transfer tax Tuesday.

“If there are big investments, these will result to better resources and more projects for the city,” Treñas pointed out.

He explained that the transfer tax represents three-fourths of one percent of the P1.2 billion that was paid by the Megaworld to the DOF for the purchase of old airport site.

The transfer tax is the share of the local government unit (LGU) once the private investor buys a real property within the LGU’s jurisdiction.

Trenas is optimistic that Megaworld’s takeover of the old airport will benefit the city in the form of real property taxes (RPT) and employment opportunities for the residents.

“Our benefits will be gained from real property taxes and jobs to be created from the development of the airport site by private investors,” he said.

Trenas said the property used to be managed by Air Transportation Office (ATO) and was exempted from RPTs but has become taxable after it is sold to the private developer.

Earlier, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo pledged that “the proceeds will go to the development of Iloilo City and the rest of Panay Island.”

Treñas had said the city government eyed the “airport money” to be utilized for the establishment of a road network linking to the neighboring Metro Iloilo towns of Oton, Leganes, Pavia and San Miguel and Sta. Barbara.

A pioneer in the development of cyber-parks, Megaworld foresees that BPO companies may be interested in setting up offices in the Visayas region.

Thus, they have planned to put up Information and Communications Technology (ICT) park in the city’s prime lot to boost the BPO sector.

The BPO industry includes call centers, medical and legal transcriptions, software development, architecture and animation using state-of-the-art computer technology.

Iloilo is considered the center of trade and commerce and education being host to several universities in Panay Island.

Megaworld will apply with the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (Peza) for a special economic zone license to transform the old airport property into a new business district.

It envisions a Peza-accredited business hub which offers tax incentives to become a magnet for major BPO companies interested to expand in the metropolis.

In addition to office buildings for BPO industry, the project will host educational facilities that would provide value added training to equip prospective employees with necessary skills suited to the requirements of call centers and other BPO businesses.

[COLLIN JASPER]

Again, another Good news!!!

[COLLIN JASPER]

wow, another first! sm delgado was the first sm outside metro manila and now megaworld's first major investment out of manila.

Thats true! this is the big boost to the economy of Iloilo.
So excited to see the masterplan of palafox associates.

[spacewagon1]

I´m impressed with all the developments ongoing with Iloilo City right now. Iloilo City definitely deserves better this time. Welcome MEGAWORLD to ILOILO, The Heart of the Philippines ! :banana: :banana:

[COLLIN JASPER]

Same News from www.panaynewsphilippines.com

BILLION-PESO INVESTMENT
P1.5B business park to
rise at old Iloilo airport
By DAVID ISRAEL SINAY

ILOILO City – A P1.5-billion business park will rise at the present site of the old Iloilo airport in Mandurriao district here, developer Megaworld Corp. announced yesterday.

One of the fastest-growing companies in the country today, Megaworld Corp. won the bidding for the 54-hectare property. It acquired the area from the national government for P1.2 billion.

Kingson Sian, Megaworld’s executive director and senior vice president, said they will transform the old airport “into a vibrant economic catalyst for Iloilo.” It will be called the Iloilo Business Park.
Sian was here yesterday for the turnover ceremony of the property. He presented Megaworld’s proposed Iloilo Business Park to city officials and said it is the company’s first major investment outside Metro Manila.

The Iloilo Business Park will house business process outsourcing offices, mid-income housing units, a hotel, a convention center, commercial retail services, skills training center, and recreational facilities.

Sian said a master plan is currently being drawn.

“We hope to start the development early next year .. when the master plan is in place,” Sian told reporters.

He said the pace of development depends on the demand of investments, noting that the project is huge … “it is a long term project.”

“We are very excited … we want to start immediately. The soonest we can do that, the soonest the people of Iloilo can benefit from the employment opportunities,” Sian said.

“The faster the infrastructures are placed, the faster the investments pour in,” he added.

Mayor Jerry Treñas welcomed Megaworld’s proposal. He said it will “result in higher investment and economic activity in the city and province of Iloilo.”

“We want to participate in the growth of Iloilo. We are making this wise investment. Iloilo City is a very progressive city,” Sian added.

Finance Secretary Margarito Teves, who was also present yesterday, said the sale of the property will not only generate revenues for the national government but will also pave the way for a billion-peso development that will attract tourists and investors, and lead to more jobs and revenues for Iloilo.”

Part of the sale contract was for the successful bidder to take charge of the illegal settlers currently occupying portions of the old Iloilo airport.

Megaworld’s executive director and senior vice president said they will be coordinating with the city government for the relocation of some 113 illegal settlers.

“They will be relocated properly,” Sian said.

Megaworld will also work for the relocation of the office of the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration which is near the old airport.
But even as it envisions the realization of its huge project, Megaworld also acknowledged one crucial concern – the power supply in Iloilo City.

Sian said Megaworld is looking for an initial energy of 20 megawatts primarily for the operation of business process outsourcing “which operates 24 hours a day.”

“We are keenly looking at issues revolving around power, but we have all the confidence that the local government will be able to solve the problem,” he said.

Treñas had been reiterating that the lack of a stable power source in the metropolis might discourage investors to come in.

“If it is going to be an insurmountable problem … we would have not invested. We are confident that the people of Iloilo will be able to rise to the occasion and solve that,” Sian said.

[COLLIN JASPER]

BRAVO!!!

[COLLIN JASPER]

I´m impressed with all the developments ongoing with Iloilo City right now. Iloilo City definitely deserves better this time. Welcome MEGAWORLD to ILOILO, The Heart of the Philippines ! :banana: :banana:
I CAN SEE that iloilo city will compete Cebu in the near future. TWO PROGRESSIVE CITY
Maayong Buntag Cebu!!! Maayong Aga Ilonggos!

[COLLIN JASPER]

Its final, Megaworld owns Old Iloilo Airport. A multi billion investment and first Megaworld project outside Manila.
Welcome Megaworld!!!

[whyte]

random shots of the New Iloilo Airport few days before its inauguration

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y187/whytewhyte/ILOILO/airportetc.jpg

arrival

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y187/whytewhyte/ILOILO/arrival.jpg

departure

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y187/whytewhyte/ILOILO/departure.jpg

[whyte]

ILOILO GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB
snapshots


http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y187/whytewhyte/ILOILO/golf1.jpg
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y187/whytewhyte/ILOILO/golf2.jpg
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y187/whytewhyte/ILOILO/golf3.jpg

[whyte]

BREAKTHROUGH sa BAYBAY
Villa Beach, Iloilo City


http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y187/whytewhyte/ILOILO/breakthruin.jpg

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y187/whytewhyte/ILOILO/breakthrua.jpg

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y187/whytewhyte/ILOILO/breakthru2.jpg

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y187/whytewhyte/ILOILO/breakthrufud.jpg

[COLLIN JASPER]

very nice photos! this picture was taken during the inauguration?

[COLLIN JASPER]

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y187/whytewhyte/ILOILO/breakthrufud.jpg
daw gin gutom ko ba. Daw mapuli ko liwat sa Iloilo ah. Nice photos Whyte!!!

[whyte]

very nice photos! this picture was taken during the inauguration?

the sunday before the inauguration :D that explains the monoblock chairs in one pic.
naunahan pa namon si PGMA saka sa podium nya.

[iloilocitykid]

Treñas reallys loves the developments in the city. I bet if he weren't the mayor, he'd be an avid poster here.

Also, I hope Iloilo City can regain it's crown which it held for almost 500 years as the Queen City of the South.

[whyte]

Drivers end strike
By Maricar M. Calubiran

Instead of bowing down to pressure, City Mayor Jerry Treñas called on drivers of public utility jeepneys (PUJs) belonging to towns under the defunct Metro Iloilo Development Council (MIDC) to bear the inconvenience as what the city is doing is for the good of the general public.

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



This is good but Metro Iloilo Development Council is defunct? I don't understand why...

to give way for the MIGDEC (metro iloilo-guimaras development council) i guess

[whyte]

Treñas reallys loves the developments in the city. I bet if he weren't the mayor, he'd be an avid poster here.

Also, I hope Iloilo City can regain it's crown which it held for almost 500 years as the Queen City of the South.

50 lang guro :D

anyway,lets get over with regaining that title and look forward for a brighter future.

yup.mayor trenas is all our for developments that can be "seen".
i remembered the time when he was acting mayor, in lieu of malabor and then vice mayor .... due to the elections, his first (cant be sure though) action was to have a city wide clean up drive complete with caravan,etc.

[death327]

I CAN SEE that iloilo city will compete Cebu in the near future. TWO PROGRESSIVE CITY
Maayong Buntag Cebu!!! Maayong Aga Ilonggos!

It cannot compete with Cebu. And there is no basis of competition. Cebu had already laid out her economic baseline. While Iloilo is just starting to determine her economic baseline.

[iloilocitykid]

^^ Well, maybe now, Iloilo can't but maybe after 30 years or so, it has a chance.

[iloilocitykid]

^^ Well, maybe now, Iloilo can't but maybe after 30 years or so, it has a chance.

[iloilocitykid]

BILLION-PESO INVESTMENT
P1.5B business park to
rise at old Iloilo airport

By DAVID ISRAEL SINAY

ILOILO City – A P1.5-billion business park will rise at the present site of the old Iloilo airport in Mandurriao district here, developer Megaworld Corp. announced yesterday.

One of the fastest-growing companies in the country today, Megaworld Corp. won the bidding for the 54-hectare property. It acquired the area from the national government for P1.2 billion.

Kingson Sian, Megaworld’s executive director and senior vice president, said they will transform the old airport “into a vibrant economic catalyst for Iloilo.” It will be called the Iloilo Business Park.

Sian was here yesterday for the turnover ceremony of the property. He presented Megaworld’s proposed Iloilo Business Park to city officials and said it is the company’s first major investment outside Metro Manila.

The Iloilo Business Park will house business process outsourcing offices, mid-income housing units, a hotel, a convention center, commercial retail services, skills training center, and recreational facilities.

Sian said a master plan is currently being drawn.

“We hope to start the development early next year .. when the master plan is in place,” Sian told reporters.

He said the pace of development depends on the demand of investments, noting that the project is huge … “it is a long term project.”

“We are very excited … we want to start immediately. The soonest we can do that, the soonest the people of Iloilo can benefit from the employment opportunities,” Sian said.

“The faster the infrastructures are placed, the faster the investments pour in,” he added.

Mayor Jerry Treñas welcomed Megaworld’s proposal. He said it will “result in higher investment and economic activity in the city and province of Iloilo.”

“We want to participate in the growth of Iloilo. We are making this wise investment. Iloilo City is a very progressive city,” Sian added.

Finance Secretary Margarito Teves, who was also present yesterday, said the sale of the property will not only generate revenues for the national government but will also pave the way for a billion-peso development that will attract tourists and investors, and lead to more jobs and revenues for Iloilo.”

Part of the sale contract was for the successful bidder to take charge of the illegal settlers currently occupying portions of the old Iloilo airport.

Megaworld’s executive director and senior vice president said they will be coordinating with the city government for the relocation of some 113 illegal settlers.

“They will be relocated properly,” Sian said.

Megaworld will also work for the relocation of the office of the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration which is near the old airport.
But even as it envisions the realization of its huge project, Megaworld also acknowledged one crucial concern – the power supply in Iloilo City.

Sian said Megaworld is looking for an initial energy of 20 megawatts primarily for the operation of business process outsourcing “which operates 24 hours a day.”

“We are keenly looking at issues revolving around power, but we have all the confidence that the local government will be able to solve the problem,” he said.

Treñas had been reiterating that the lack of a stable power source in the metropolis might discourage investors to come in.

“If it is going to be an insurmountable problem … we would have not invested. We are confident that the people of Iloilo will be able to rise to the occasion and solve that,” Sian said.

[habagatcentral1]

Regarding the statement of Cebu and Iloilo as competing cities, there is somewhat a sector that they would compete. Again, this is a healthy competition and will contribute to the overall health of our economy in the country.

Cebu is different as it has laid its path towards industrial, tourism and IT sector while Iloilo has to improve its strength for human resource, its services sector and of course agriculture.

Its better to have a holistic growth over the Visayan region or the Philippines rather than being monopolized by few di ba?

[zhock2001]

naks, basta si bernie ga hambal daw kanami pamatian!

and id rather have it that iloilo be a commercial, cultural, educational and recreational/vacation hotspot more than a "heavy-industry" player... that way we can retain the old world charm, grandeur and serene life that has always defined our city... i hope this doesn't sound like an anti-progress statement...

[habagatcentral1]

^^ Wahahahaha!!! Ti, musta na ang life mo sa Vicente Sotto Memorial?

I don't think so. There are some progressive cities that maintains its laid-back and old world charm in other countries in Asia. I like Iloilo City the way its laidbackness, cost of living and "homey" feeling.

Remember what Michael Tan said in his column regarding Pinoy Cities?
"The only time that the cities outside of Manila (he might be referring to Cebu, Iloilo and Davao in his column) lose its distinct laidback characteristic or its uniqueness (pinasahi sa aton) is that these cities would imitate Manila itself."

[death327]

IMO, there is no point of competing or comparing our status with other cities in Visayas or in the country. It would be better if we gear our focus to the direction of local economic stability and self-sufficiency. In this way, we can develop in terms of our own and locally fit economic niche, instead of imitating the track of other industrialized cities. They have their own economic niche and we have to develop our own niche.

Also, when we say compete there must be a common ground why two entities compete. For Cebu or Iloilo, there is no common ground to compete. So there is no competition.

I sometimes feel irritated when we always try to compare our city to other cities. Iloilo has a lot to hurdle before we can state that we can compete.

[iloilocitykid]

^^ IMO, a little comparing does no harm and can actually boost the city. For one, Iloilo and Cebu compete for tourism. Cebu for it's beaches, nightlife and heritage while Iloilo for it's festivals, beaches and food.

When comparing, we can see where we are right now and what we need to improve. It's the same as the country comparing with it's neighbors.

[habagatcentral1]

^^ Thats what you call benchmarking Kent. If we are to compare other cities, we do not have to feel envy or jelousy as this would bring immature policy-making.

Comparing cities is just one way in order to learn what are the advantages and disadvantages of each different cities then focus and check what we lack and what they lack. See what advantages or disadvantages that we have or they have.

Benchmarking is just one of the ways in assessing the economic life of a city.

Its a simple learning and sharing thing that most LGUs do in the Visayas (And as far as I observed, it is only in SSC that we have these CvC bashings and not in the reality).

[iloilocitykid]

^^ Anyway, we can always know if there's a CVC threat coming

[habagatcentral1]

^^ Amo na. If we allow our regional prides to take-over our rational thinking, then we would be ruled like a mob and consider ourselves immature.

[iloilocitykid]

^^ Agree. Lesson learned there.

[death327]

^^ Thats what you call benchmarking Kent. If we are to compare other cities, we do not have to feel envy or jelousy as this would bring immature policy-making.

Comparing cities is just one way in order to learn what are the advantages and disadvantages of each different cities then focus and check what we lack and what they lack. See what advantages or disadvantages that we have or they have.

Benchmarking is just one of the ways in assessing the economic life of a city.

Its a simple learning and sharing thing that most LGUs do in the Visayas (And as far as I observed, it is only in SSC that we have these CvC bashings and not in the reality).

I know it berns... but I was referring to comparison for competition but not comparison for improvement.

I hate to see and read statements with the word "compete" without further detailing the basis of competition. There is a big difference between the words "compete" and "compare."

On the other side of the note... is it really necessary for us to benchmark things against other city? I believe not. We only do benchmarking between two entities when their nature is the same. We benchmark not against the data of other cities because the internal dealings and local economic movement of these cities are different than ours. I suggest we benchmark within our own data in this way we avoid any negative comment.

I am not defending any city here... but I am trying to understand the statements we are writing here.

[METROPOLITAN_ILOILO]

BILLION-PESO INVESTMENT
P1.5B business park to
rise at old Iloilo airport

By DAVID ISRAEL SINAY

ILOILO City – A P1.5-billion business park will rise at the present site of the old Iloilo airport in Mandurriao district here, developer Megaworld Corp. announced yesterday.

One of the fastest-growing companies in the country today, Megaworld Corp. won the bidding for the 54-hectare property. It acquired the area from the national government for P1.2 billion.

Kingson Sian, Megaworld’s executive director and senior vice president, said they will transform the old airport “into a vibrant economic catalyst for Iloilo.” It will be called the Iloilo Business Park.

Sian was here yesterday for the turnover ceremony of the property. He presented Megaworld’s proposed Iloilo Business Park to city officials and said it is the company’s first major investment outside Metro Manila.

The Iloilo Business Park will house business process outsourcing offices, mid-income housing units, a hotel, a convention center, commercial retail services, skills training center, and recreational facilities.

Sian said a master plan is currently being drawn.

“We hope to start the development early next year .. when the master plan is in place,” Sian told reporters.

He said the pace of development depends on the demand of investments, noting that the project is huge … “it is a long term project.”

“We are very excited … we want to start immediately. The soonest we can do that, the soonest the people of Iloilo can benefit from the employment opportunities,” Sian said.

“The faster the infrastructures are placed, the faster the investments pour in,” he added.

Mayor Jerry Treñas welcomed Megaworld’s proposal. He said it will “result in higher investment and economic activity in the city and province of Iloilo.”

“We want to participate in the growth of Iloilo. We are making this wise investment. Iloilo City is a very progressive city,” Sian added.

Finance Secretary Margarito Teves, who was also present yesterday, said the sale of the property will not only generate revenues for the national government but will also pave the way for a billion-peso development that will attract tourists and investors, and lead to more jobs and revenues for Iloilo.”

Part of the sale contract was for the successful bidder to take charge of the illegal settlers currently occupying portions of the old Iloilo airport.

Megaworld’s executive director and senior vice president said they will be coordinating with the city government for the relocation of some 113 illegal settlers.

“They will be relocated properly,” Sian said.

Megaworld will also work for the relocation of the office of the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration which is near the old airport.
But even as it envisions the realization of its huge project, Megaworld also acknowledged one crucial concern – the power supply in Iloilo City.

Sian said Megaworld is looking for an initial energy of 20 megawatts primarily for the operation of business process outsourcing “which operates 24 hours a day.”

“We are keenly looking at issues revolving around power, but we have all the confidence that the local government will be able to solve the problem,” he said.

Treñas had been reiterating that the lack of a stable power source in the metropolis might discourage investors to come in.

“If it is going to be an insurmountable problem … we would have not invested. We are confident that the people of Iloilo will be able to rise to the occasion and solve that,” Sian said.

^^
Yum Yum! Loved every words of this...

ON SUTHERLAND update:

This is what I know that is CONFIRMED. I was able to talk from my source with SUTHERLAND who was able to talk with the Trainer...

By JULY next year FULL BLAST na ang ILOILO OPERATION. Already SUTHERLAND ILOILO is in Founadtion training and 2 trainers was sent. 1st account will be customer service for McAffe...by november or december this will start operating... this is sure na! Right now they are into accent and language training in ILOILO. The LOCATION is not yet final. I'll give more updates soon...

[iloilocitykid]

^^ Yum yum also. Construction is EVERYWHERE, except the flyover of course. :ohno:

Anyway, I hope this goes on. I'll expect to see a Starbucks and a high rise building in 5 years time. :banana:

[iloilocitykid]

Most water refilling stations
lack sanitary permit – CHO

By DAVID ISRAEL SINAY

ILOILO City – There are over a hundred water refilling stations in this city, but only a handful passed safe tests, revealed the City Health Office (CHO).

“There is no guaranteed safety in drinking bottled water because (most of the bottled waters here) lack safety seals on their containers,” said Dr. Urminico Baronda.

An alarmed tourism officer of the city government, Benito Jimena, urged the Department of Health (DOH) and the CHO to conduct on-site examinations to verify the treatment processes being undertaken by water refilling stations.

“We should not wait for (tragedy to happen) before agencies concerned look into the matter,” stressed Jimena after the CHO revealed that only about 12 percent of more than a hundred water refilling stations in this city were able to secure sanitary permits.

He urged the public to “be very careful in choosing bottled water purchased in the market.”

For his part, Baronda said it is always best to boil the water first.

Jimena expressed fear on the possible adverse impact of unsafe water to the city’s tourism industry.

“The reason why people patronize bottled water is because they believe what they buy is clean,” Jimena added.

He added: “If there is no regulatory body that ensures the safety bottled water in the markets, potential visitors and tourists might get the impression that in this part of the country, drinking water is unsafe.”

According to CHO Sanitation Inspector Romeo Lustria, water refilling stations operating in the metropolis must secure sanitary permits annually.

He confirmed that only 12 percent, of the more than one hundred water refilling stations in the metropolis have sanitary permits.

The CHO has already called that attention of the refilling stations to comply with the requirement, he added.

Prior to the issuance of a sanitary permit, water refilling undergo a tedious inspection process.

First, the applicant must secure a certificate of potability from the CHO. In securing a certificate, three water examinations at source are undertaken and another three water examinations on the product (the bottled water itself).

“(The testing) is done every six months,” Lustria said.

After the issuance of the certificate of potability, the applicant must apply for an initial permit and operational permit at the regional office of the DOH, Lustria said, after which the applicant shall present the permits at the CHO for the inspection of the refilling station, before it issues the sanitary permit.

Lustria said only a few water refilling stations are complying because of the rigid inspection process being observed.


:ohno: Can we import water from Davao?

[chymera00]

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/169/374455339_28738fee5a.jpg?v=1191611328

Dinagyang Festival 2008 Event Schedule posted

Click Here (http://www.exploreiloilo.com/dinagyang-festival-event.html)to View

(http://www.exploreiloilo.com/dinagyang-festival-event.html)

[iloilocitykid]

^^ Nong chy, will they really change the color of Dagoy to brown?

[birdfluuu]

Iloilo to rise in BPO world map

By Jeehan V. Fernandez


“Megaworld envisions the Iloilo Business Park a live-work-play-learn community hosting BPO offices, residential units, hotels, convention center, commercial and retail outlets, skills training center, and recreational facilities,” he pointed out.

Sian said a theme park will become a hub for tourists.


hmmmm may theme park man gali ang megaworld? i think 54 hectares kulang pa ina sa bpo offices sang mega world kaya indi dapat butangan theme park ang airport sang Iloilo kay kulang ang area:) opinion ko lang na ha? maybe 30 years time pwedi man cguro..:)

[habagatcentral1]

^^ Fine, whatever you believe. Basta indi ka lang maginsulto nga personal diri o bisan sa thread nyo, your always welcome.

Anyway, theme park like Enchanted may not be possible for Iloilo's market for now and again from what I've heard, it would be a staggered development application for Megaworld, that means gradual development of the airport lot and not "all of a sudden" move.

That is why Megaworld focuses on developing the "earning" or profit-earner realty investments such as construction of the BPO buildings or commercial establishments.

[eonynx]

^^ ^^hahaha! maybe you could share your dollars' worth of opinion to megaworld!:lol: perhaps they would be all ears!

[death327]

hmmmm may theme park man gali ang megaworld? i think 54 hectares kulang pa ina sa bpo offices sang mega world kaya indi dapat butangan theme park ang airport sang Iloilo kay kulang ang area:) opinion ko lang na ha? maybe 30 years time pwedi man cguro..:)

Do you have an uncle or aunt who can provide a "good" advice to Megaworld?

[birdfluuu]

^^ You challenged me to prove a negative...that is, prove what you say isn't true..:ohno: As I've said before, your behavior shows that you seem to be operating from your own version of:bash: :) obviously..you are not up to this level of debate. nabasa ko ang iban nyo na mga post:nuts: opinion man lang na ya..peace:)

[death327]

^^ that's just a random and simple question... you can say no or yes.

Anyway, don't worry that's fine. Your point is taken already and we highly respect others opinion. But sometimes be careful with how you approach things because you might be swimming in unknown waters. :D

[daks2003]

I assume, you are thinking of a theme park in the scale of disney,universal,or 6flags...maybe ala enchanted kingdom man...and I have to agree with you, indi pa ready ang Iloilo for a theme park in that scale, in fact maski diin nga city diri sa WV is not be ready for that sa subong.

hmmmm may theme park man gali ang megaworld? i think 54 hectares kulang pa ina sa bpo offices sang mega world kaya indi dapat butangan theme park ang airport sang Iloilo kay kulang ang area:) opinion ko lang na ha? maybe 30 years time pwedi man cguro..:)

[COLLIN JASPER]

hmmmm may theme park man gali ang megaworld? i think 54 hectares kulang pa ina sa bpo offices sang mega world kaya indi dapat butangan theme park ang airport sang Iloilo kay kulang ang area:) opinion ko lang na ha? maybe 30 years time pwedi man cguro..:)
you posted on your bacolod thread that, its better to put a theme park or mini enchanted kingdom on your 17hectares airport. where is bigger 54hectares or 17? dont you think its feasible to put mini encahnted kingdom in your place? Iloilo is not ready for that...like what daks said.

next for your info... im still here in philippines...and im very proud that im the hero of the nation. wala personalay ok...bay-i lang basi may pasalubong ka man.peace

[habagatcentral1]

^^ You challenged me to prove a negative...that is, prove what you say isn't true..:ohno: As I've said before, your behavior shows that you seem to be operating from your own version of:bash: :) obviously..you are not up to this level of debate. nabasa ko ang iban nyo na mga post:nuts: opinion man lang na ya..peace:)

^^ that's just a random and simple question... you can say no or yes.

Anyway, don't worry that's fine. Your point is taken already and we highly respect others opinion. But sometimes be careful with how you approach things because you might be swimming in unknown waters. :D

Thats true. We respect your opinion. Its just a matter on how you post it or expressing it on the right way. Like the banana smiles on the other thread. You should be careful in expressing your words. I myself was angered by your posts but would rather have you decide it.

you posted on your bacolod thread that, its better to put a theme park or mini enchanted kingdom on your 17hectares airport. where is bigger 54hectares or 17? dont you think its feasible to put mini encahnted kingdom in your place? Iloilo is not ready for that...like what daks said.

next for your info... im still here in philippines...and im very proud that im the hero of the nation. wala personalay ok...bay-i lang basi may pasalubong ka man.peace


I agree with Collin and Daks or even to you Birdfluu that Iloilo is not ready yet to have a theme park ala Enchanted or Orlando. Maybe a Civic Activity Center Area or another night out place would do.

[eonynx]

you posted on your bacolod thread that, its better to put a theme park or mini enchanted kingdom on your 17hectares airport. where is bigger 54hectares or 17? dont you think its feasible to put mini encahnted kingdom in your place? Iloilo is not ready for that...like what daks said.

next for your info... im still here in philippines...and im very proud that im the hero of the nation. wala personalay ok...bay-i lang basi may pasalubong ka man.peace

ive read that post in the yonder thread too! and that's what made me laugh! the double standard treatment is obvious! anyway, birdfluu is always welcome in this thread!:) i think it's a matter of how the posts are expressed and the motives behind them.

[IMPRESARIO]

guys, i'm happy about this development in our city, with or without a themepark, i'm not at all flustered by some other peoples negative and passive-agressive comments, i'm proud that our city is the FIRST city where Megaworld has Invested outside of the capital. And No one not even an Avian Infection can stop the continuing progress of our City, heheh, peace!

[iloilocitykid]

Well, Megaworld might not make a theme park out of that but it's gonna be a booming business center in the future. Think of it, Megaworld made Eastwood City the BPO center of the country, maybe they can make Iloilo City the BPO center of the South. Go go go!

A theme park might be feasible in a few years time and the ideal location would be in the undeveloped areas in Jaro and Lapaz. :banana:

[iloilocitykid]

MEGAWORLD NEEDS 35MW OF POWER

By Francis Allan L. Angelo

PROPERTY developer Megaworld Corp. needs more than 30 megawatts of electricity to sustain its investments on the old Iloilo airport lot.

Megaworld executive director and senior vice-president Kingson Sian said they need 35MW of power to energize the Iloilo Business Park that the firm is planning to put up on the old airport property.

Sian said they envision a live-work-play-learn community to sprout from the lot.

Megaworld will spend P1.5 billion to put up business processes outsourcing (BPO) offices, residential units, hotels, convention center, commercial and retail outlets, skills training center, and recreational facilities (see related story on Page 1).

“We need stable supply of power because this will be a whole community, a city within a city,” Sian said.

Sian added that BPO investors and companies also require steady and uninterrupted supply of electricity because of its round-the-clock operations.

“We know that there are some problems as regards the power supply of Iloilo City but we are also confident that our local officials and the business leaders here will do something to solve this concern,” Sian said.

Megaworld, one of the largest property developers in the country, has hired the topnotch services of architectural firm Palafox Associates in drafting a development masterplan for the old airport lot.

Iloilo City mayor Jerry Treñas said Megaworld initially required 20MW of power in the initial stages of its investments.

“The city will find ways to address their requirement because of the investment that they are going to pour in here,” Treñas said.

Finance Secretary Margarito Teves, who graced the ceremonial turnover of the airport property at Sarabia Manor Hotel and Convention Center, said the issue of power supply is one concern that must be resolved to attract more investors in Iloilo.

“BPO investors really focus on the power supply because of their 24/7 operations. We can realize the investment and employment potentials of Iloilo in the BPO sector if we have stable and cheap supply of electricity,” Teves said.

Oscar Sañez, chief executive officer of the Business Processing Association of the Philippines (BPAP), said telecommunications and electricity are their top concerns when investing in a city or province.

Sañez said their group is very interested in Iloilo because of its manpower resources and modern telecom infrastructure.

“The price of power does not really concern us. As long we have stable supply—which means no sudden brownouts—the BPO sector will be willing to invest in Iloilo City,” Sañez said.

[iloilocitykid]

Iloilo to rise in BPO world map

By Jeehan V. Fernandez

GIANT real estate developer Megaworld Corp. yesterday vowed to put Iloilo in the world map of rising business process outsourcing (BPO) industry.

Megaworld top executives led by executive director and senior vice-president Kingson Sian arrived in Iloilo City yesterday for the turnover of 54-hectare old airport property in Mandurriao district at Sarabia Manor Hotel and Convention Center here.

“This is a rare opportunity for us to transform the site into a vibrant economic catalyst of Iloilo. Megaworld built its reputation throughout Manila and now we’re bringing that to Iloilo,” Sian told the audience.

“We are bringing development we hope all Ilonggos can be truly proud of—this is our first major investment outside of Metro Manila,” he stressed.

Sian said Megaworld is largest landlord of BPO companies in the Philippines and the fastest growing real estate company in the country.

Why is Megaworld bullish on the property market?

“We have identified five growth drivers including BPO, middle-income housing, power of OFWs, decreasing home mortgage rate and government infrastructure spending,” Sian explained.

“Megaworld envisions the Iloilo Business Park a live-work-play-learn community hosting BPO offices, residential units, hotels, convention center, commercial and retail outlets, skills training center, and recreational facilities,” he pointed out.

Sian said a theme park will become a hub for tourists.

Sian said BPO firms in one of their projects in Metro Manila employ some 17,000 persons and they expect the figure to rise in the coming years.

Megaworld bought the old airport lot at P1.2 billion which it paid in cash to the Department of Finance and plans to invest P1.5 billion to develop the area.

A pioneer in the development of cyber-parks, Megaworld foresees that BPO companies may be interested to set up offices in the Visayas region.

The BPO sector includes call centers, medical and legal transcriptions, software development, architecture and animation using state-of-the-art computer technology.

Megaworld will apply with the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (Peza) for a special economic zone license to transform the old airport property into a new business district.

A Peza-accredited business hub which offers tax incentives to become a magnet for major BPO companies interested to expand in the metropolis.

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

WISE INVESTMENT

Iloilo is considered the center of trade and commerce and education being host to several universities in Panay Island.

“One of the key factors for success is manpower availability. We are very satisfied with the quality of labor and there are lots of universities here as what we need. Major telecom players are already established here. There’s no reason why Iloilo should not be in the world map of BPO,” Sian said.

He was referring to headlines that Cebu, Pasig and Baguio have been cited among the world’s emerging BPO centers.

“We are very excited—this is a wise investment. Iloilo is a very progressive city with very cooperative local government unit and we want to be a part of that growth. We will create a community—we want to add and enhance to the city’s growth. We don’t want to wait any longer—the opportunity is there,” Sian stressed.

He was also optimistic that of adequate power supply which is vital especially to BPO center’s 24/7 operations while they need at least 35-MW power based on initial estimates.
“If the power concern is insurmountable, we could not have invested. But we are confident we could rise to the occasion and solve the problem,” said Sian.

Oscar Sañez, chief executive officer of the Business Processing Association of the Philippines, said Iloilo belongs to the “big city potential” category among prospective BPO locators because of its quality manpower and existing infrastructure.

“The telecommunications infra here is one of the most modern and it is improving. We have highly qualified manpower here because of the number of universities and students here. We in the BPO sector are very bullish on Iloilo’s potentials because of these factors,” Sañez said.

[iloilocitykid]

^^ Oh boy. THe theme park question has been answered and they will build it. It's only a matter of when...

[lewdsaint]

Peryahan na lang anay para feasible.....hehehe! :lol:

It was said by the executive director and senior vice-president Kingson Sian of Megaworld that they will develop a theme park in the old iloilo airport wala na siguro kita iya labot kay sila man 'ya magasto. Ngaa sagid man 'ta 'ya kinumod kung indi feasible ang theme park sa mandurriao airport. They are the expert, we are not in the rightplace nga pamatukan sila.

birdfluuu, I suggest to put facts in your comments para indi ka pagbarahun! Or magpanumdum ka man 'bi sang dalum.

[iloilocitykid]

^^ Birdfluu = birdbrain

[birdfluuu]

Bernie,Collin,Soul,eonex,lewd kag kid wala ko ya ga hikay da ah..damu ga hambal ang problema sang Iloilo traffic:ohno: te kon patindugan theme park pa gid sin o ma problema kamu man dyapon.. indi ko gusto e compare ang traffic sang Iloilo sa Bacolod:) kamu gani ga post man to sa Bacolod thread..wala man sang ga away sa inyo.pero kon diri..permi lang sala hambal ko..tama na bala...wala ko ya ga panghikay a.:)

[lewdsaint]

hay birdfluuuuu ah! I told you to think first before you post. Expect nga lawig na naman nga barahanay ini. :ohno:

I suggest that we better not to read your comments or ignore you. wala ka man may maayo nga suggestions, You better stay and comment sa Thread nyo kag indi ka sagi pahilabot diri.

[iloilocitykid]

^^ You also posted that when collin goes abroad, he'll be happy...tama na bala? You do not know what it feels :ohno:

[lewdsaint]

Gin-edit mo pa ang post mo kag gindugang pa ang ngalan ko. hehehe! Gusto mo siguro matindakan 'ta 'ka? Waay ka pa siguro kaagi kadi 'no? jk.

Tama na ina. Indi ka na di sagi pasilabot.

Bernie,Collin,Soul,eonex kag kid wala ko ya ga hikay da ah..damu ga hambal ang problema sang Iloilo traffic:ohno: te kon patindugan theme park pa gid sin o ma problema kamu man dyapon.. indi ko gusto e compare ang traffic sang Iloilo sa Bacolod:) kamu gani ga post man to sa Bacolod thread..wala man sang ga away sa inyo.pero kon diri..permi lang sala hambal ko..tama na bala...wala ko ya ga panghikay a.:)

[iloilocitykid]

^^ Agree with you, lewd. It's best not to talk to trolls.

[lewdsaint]

Kag kaun na lang sya Laswa para madugangan alam nya.

RKPNJfDvFLc

[iloilocitykid]

^^ How do you post vids here?

[lewdsaint]

I-qoute mo lang comment ko you will see how I made it.
Get the code in the URL (the hilited letters)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v= RKPNJfDvFLc

[iloilocitykid]

^^ Thanks

[Pacific_leopard]

nag-init nanaman ang thread.hahaha

[daks2003]

ginasilingan ka na gani nga ang theme park proposal nagalupad pa ina ya sa hangin...panumduma bala, cebu kag davao gani wala sang amo sina considering nga mas progresibo katama ang ila ekonomiya comparar sa Iloilo kag Bacolod...isa lang ka bagay ang sigurado subong diri sa Iloilo, ang old airport is now a owned by Lucio Tan's Megaworld and that's the only development that they are talking right now in Western Visayas, in fact, the first Megaworld Project outside Metro Manila....Iloilo is now part of Megaworld's immediate plans kay kadaku sang gin invest nila nga kuwarta and that is something nga indi nila pag uyangan sang oras

Bernie,Collin,Soul,eonex,lewd kag kid wala ko ya ga hikay da ah..damu ga hambal ang problema sang Iloilo traffic:ohno: te kon patindugan theme park pa gid sin o ma problema kamu man dyapon.. indi ko gusto e compare ang traffic sang Iloilo sa Bacolod:) kamu gani ga post man to sa Bacolod thread..wala man sang ga away sa inyo.pero kon diri..permi lang sala hambal ko..tama na bala...wala ko ya ga panghikay a.:)

[habagatcentral1]

Kabalo mo Birdfluu, indi man kami guro magreact sina sa imo kon indi lang sa mga post mo eh, tan-awa bala mga posts mo kag ibutang mo kaugalingon mo sa lugar namon...lalo na ang kay Collin nga mensahe.

Bisan sin-o man guro pwede makakadto di, welcome sila gani.

We are open to criticisms that are deemed constructive and so are other cities here in SSC.

And we dreamed of a theme park...not feasible as of now.
We already know the fact that Iloilo's traffic is at its worse and comparing Bacolod's grid-like street planning is far from the Castillan-aged reduccion streets of Iloilo.

[death327]

Bernie,Collin,Soul,eonex,lewd kag kid wala ko ya ga hikay da ah..damu ga hambal ang problema sang Iloilo traffic:ohno: te kon patindugan theme park pa gid sin o ma problema kamu man dyapon.. indi ko gusto e compare ang traffic sang Iloilo sa Bacolod:) kamu gani ga post man to sa Bacolod thread..wala man sang ga away sa inyo.pero kon diri..permi lang sala hambal ko..tama na bala...wala ko ya ga panghikay a.:)

I don't know but I think you need to visit your psychologist. You have a huge attitude problem.

Anyway, I would rather spend my cents to sensible cretins. Tsek tsek I pity you.

[shyaman]

Wow!
Never thought a bird flu can make a stir in our thread. :D

Hey @collin glad to still read your posts here. Abi ko naglakat ka na kay daw may nabasahan ko anay nga post mo a few days ago saying goodbye to everybody. Kinayutan gani ko maghibi sang mabasahan ko. :D

[COLLIN JASPER]

Bernie,Collin,Soul,eonex,lewd kag kid wala ko ya ga hikay da ah..damu ga hambal ang problema sang Iloilo traffic:ohno: te kon patindugan theme park pa gid sin o ma problema kamu man dyapon.. indi ko gusto e compare ang traffic sang Iloilo sa Bacolod:) kamu gani ga post man to sa Bacolod thread..wala man sang ga away sa inyo.pero kon diri..permi lang sala hambal ko..tama na bala...wala ko ya ga panghikay a.:)


wow ha size 4 pa ang word nga traffic hehehe! kag may 'oh no" icon pa wahahahaha! ti ngaa ga pa mroblema ka gd? wala gani pamroblema megaworld ikaw pa. GUYS WALA GURO KA KITA ANG AVIAN FLU NGA INE SANG ITSURA SNG MANDURRIAO AIRPORT AY? basi gusto ya pa pletehan ko pa sya round trip sa weesam para makita ya, para maghambal sya nga ay kadaku gali no? bisan mag patindog ka pa enchanted kingdom kag harry potter university hahahaha! Try to analyze bala gina pang post mo bag-o mo depensahan ang sarile mo.

yes ga post kami sa inyo thread kag gusto namon nga mag hili-ugyon kita like kay bernie, wala man kami ga hikay sa inyo, mas naga agree pa gani kami sng gina pang post nyo, kag wala kami ga compare sng iloilo kg bacolod sa amon thread. tahts why nga ang iban nga mga forumers d sa iloilo wala na naga post sa bacolod thread kay budlay na mag ilinaway pa kay gina halungan man nila nga maguba ang friendship nila sa mga taga bacolod forumers, like jaywalker,sugarfreak, erikcd,kg juicydude. they are so nice people of bacolod forumers, inde kami gusto maguba ang friendship tungod lng sa mga bag-o nga forumers.thats all.

[spacewagon1]

Megaworld: Visit Iloilo first before Boracay
By Jeehan V. Fernandez

GIANT real estate developer Megaworld Corp. is crafting plans to transform the 54-hectare old airport site in Mandurriao, Iloilo City into a tourists’ haven.
Megaworld top executives led by executive director and senior vice-president Kingson Sian were here last week for the turnover of old airport property it bought from the national government to the tune of P1.2 billion.

“Megaworld envisions the Iloilo Business Park a live-work-play-learn community hosting BPO offices, residential units, hotels, convention center, commercial and retail outlets, skills training center, and recreational facilities,” he disclosed.

Sian said a theme park will become a hub for tourists.

“A lot of people just bypass Iloilo that they concentrate to Boracay – so we want them to come to Iloilo City and enjoy the culture, churches and history – then go to Boracay,” Sian enthused.

Iloilo is considered the gateway to Boracay, Panay and Guimaras islands which have been positioned as hotspots in the Central Philippines tourism program of the Arroyo administration.

Iloilo hosts the newly-opened state-of-the-art airport in Sta. Barbara-Cabatuan towns, some 19 kilometers north of the city.

Iloilo City is home to the famous Dinagyang Festival which has been cited twice as best tourism event in the country by the Association of Tourism Officers in the Philippines (Atop).

Megaworld has set foot on Iloilo City with big economic and tourism prospects amid a burgeoning urban center.

“This is a rare opportunity for us to transform the site into a vibrant economic catalyst of Iloilo. Megaworld built its grand and reputation throughout Manila and now we’re bringing that to Iloilo,” said Sian.

“We are bringing development we hope all Ilonggos can be truly proud of,” he added.

Sian said Megaworld is largest landlord of BPO companies in the Philippines and the fastest growing real estate company in the country.

Megaworld’s six major projects in Manila have a combined area of 100 hectares. The 54-hectare lot here is already half of the firm’s developments.
Sian explained they have identified five growth drivers including BPO, middle-income housing, power of OFWs, decreasing home mortgage rate and government infrastructure spending.

“The property market has been a hit while the demand for middle-class housing is very sharp as the economy continues to grow – there’s a lot of emerging middle class that want to grow. We should also consider the power of OFWs,” he pointed out.

Iloilo is also considered an “OFW country” with the increasing demand for mushrooming residential facilities.

“We want to highlight that when we buy a major piece of property we don’t like to sit and we develop the area immediately,” Sian said.

“Filipinos (or Ilonggos in particular) will be getting well-paid jobs, good trainings and skills and will be working here and not somewhere else in the world. We want to do the same concept in Iloilo as what we have in Manila to give the Ilonggos a choice whether to stay or go abroad,” he added.

A pioneer in the development of cyber-parks, Megaworld foresees that BPO companies maybe interested to set up offices in the Visayas region.
The BPO sector includes call centers, medical and legal transcriptions, software development, architecture and animation using state-of-the-art computer technology.

Megaworld is applying for a special economic zone license with the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (Peza) to transform the old airport property into a new business district.

A Peza-accredited business hub which offers tax incentives becomes a magnet for major BPO companies interested to expand in the metropolis.
He added their developments in Manila host international Chinese and Korean schools.

Iloilo has been home to Chinese community who are doing businesses in downtown area as well as Koreans flocking the city to study or do business here.

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

[spacewagon1]

Bernie,Collin,Soul,eonex,lewd kag kid wala ko ya ga hikay da ah..damu ga hambal ang problema sang Iloilo traffic:ohno: te kon patindugan theme park pa gid sin o ma problema kamu man dyapon.. indi ko gusto e compare ang traffic sang Iloilo sa Bacolod:) kamu gani ga post man to sa Bacolod thread..wala man sang ga away sa inyo.pero kon diri..permi lang sala hambal ko..tama na bala...wala ko ya ga panghikay a.:)
it's because you're posts are funny, that's why. If you are posting with sense in here, maybe your ideas will be welcome in our thread. Howevre, you are stirring something stupid in our thread and starting a city versus city here. For sure, there's nothing to compare between Iloilo and Bacolod in all aspects. I don't know why Bacolodnons are a bit pushy to make a comparison? Would it be nice if you'll start comparing your city with others? Maybe then, there'll be a sense with what you are talking in here.

[spacewagon1]

48 days more before Ateneo’s Golden anniversary launching
By Engr. Herman Lagon

EXACTLY 48 days are left before the highly-anticipated lunching of the Golden Jubilee of Ateneo de Iloilo-Santa Maria Catholic School (AdI-SMCS) fires up in Iloilo City.

The soft 50-year anniversary celebration debut will be highlighted by a seven-pronged torch parade in the late afternoon of November 30 to be participated in by distinguished alumni, parents, students, teachers and staff of the only Jesuit school in Western Visayas.

From the seven vital points in Iloilo City (namely Ateneo Old Campus, Provincial Capitol, Jaro Plaza, Mandurriao Plaza, Molo Plaza, Jollibee Molo, and SM City Iloilo), participants will march towards the new 7.5-hectare, P200-million-worth Ateneo site in Brgy. San Rafael, Mandurriao where the launching rites is to be held. Fireworks display, digital countdown, video presentations, food fair, and concerts shall be held thereafter to spice up the celebration.

Early morning of that same day, a mass will be held in the Santa Maria Parish at Gen. Blanco St., Iloilo City where the old site is located. This will be followed by the blessing and the simultaneous installation of the Golden Jubilee (GJ) car plates, setting of fireworks, city motorcade and the unveiling of the official GJ logo.

“The festivity would be simple but meaningful to all Ateneans young and old. It is specially designed to fit all the batches’ sensibilities and in line with our theme ‘Celebrating the Ignatian tradition of love, service, and excellence,’” said John Trompeta (Batch ’87), GJ committee chairperson.

“We have lots of surprises in store for our alumni,” Trompeta stressed, adding, “we wish to have a complete attendance from the first batch of students who enrolled in school in 1958 to the newest students in the pre-school.”

Trompeta added, “we also wish the participation of our benefactors, parents and guardians who have always been there holding hands with us in the fulfillment of the school’s noble vision, mission and goals.”

The launching marks the start of a yearlong fete of GJ celebrations, one of which is the groundbreaking of the new Ateneo site (December 8), GJ Cup (January-February, 2008), GJ Summer Camp and Educational Tour, GJ Outreach Programs (2008), GJ ‘Blue Nites’ (2008), GJ Fiesta (September, 2008), and the GJ Grand Alumni Homecoming (December, 2008), among many others.

The Ateneo de Iloilo-SMCS Alumni Association, presently headed by ABS-CBN anchorperson lawyer Joebert Peñaflorida (Batch ’82), is also planning series of activities—specially designed for the alumni and family—that are aligned with the 50-year celebration.

Ateneo de Iloilo History
Expelled from China by the Communist takeover, the Jesuits came to Iloilo in 1953, and started their apostolic work among the local ethnic Chinese community as a continuation of their missionary work in Mainland China. With the support of the Iloilo Chinese and Filipino communities, Santa Maria Parish under the tutelage of Our Lady Queen of China was established by Fr. Guerrino Marsecano, an Italian Jesuit Missionary.

Jesuits believe that quality education is essential in molding good Catholic Christians. So in 1958, with barely nine (9) students as enrollees, Frs. Andrew Joliet, a French Jesuit, and Santiago Leon, a Spanish Jesuit, acting as Founder/Director and Principal respectively, opened a parochial school that came to be known as Sta. Maria Catholic School (SMCS).

With the Holy Mother as patroness, the Jesuits have embarked on a crucial mission of forming the youth of Iloilo. A year after the founding of the school, a two-story wooden building was constructed to provide the students with eight classrooms. In 1962, through the beneficence of Eduardo and Cesar Lopez, part of the school was erected on Lopez brothers’ lot situated across the street.

The school year 1965-66 was a glorious year as SMCS saw the first batch of graduates from the Grade School Department. SMCS accepted its first batch of high school freshmen in school year 1966-67. From its founding until 1976, Fr. Joliet, S.J. had been both Director of the school and the Pastor of the parish. In 1968, the Philippine government recognized SMCS as Filipino school with a comprehensive Chinese language program. Within the same year, Fr. Felix Maliza, another Spanish Jesuit, became the Principal of the school.
And Tender Years

SMCS held its first high school graduation in March 1970. A total of 18 students received their diplomas. Fr. Maiza, whose short term as a principal ended in the same year., was replaced by Fr. Albert Ricard, a French Canadian Jesuit who also acted as school Director. From nine pupils, SMCS had na unprecedented rise in the number of students when it accepted a total of 615 enrollees for high school alone.

However, due to the decision of the Chinese Provincial Superior to maintain only an elementary school, no freshmen were accepted for the school year 1971-72. As a result, high school enrolment plummeted to 513 and to 481 the following year. When parents of the students protested the phasing-out of the high school department, the Chinese Provincial Superior reconsidered his decision. A year after, enrolment started picking up as freshmen were again allowed to enroll for the school year 1972-73.

In 1971, Fr. Peter Ignatius Li, S.J. arrived to fill in the shoes of parish priest and school Director while Fr. Ricard maintained his position as Principal for seven more years. In 1978, Fr. John Chi, S.J. was appointed Director - Principal of the School.

A donation of 3,600 square meters of land by the Lopez family in June 1972 paved the way for the construction of a four-story concrete building in 1974 to replace the wooden one. The French-German missionary Fr. Arthur Baur, S.J. Superior and parish priest of the Sta. Maria community added a new wing to the school in 1977.

Despite the limitations of a constricted space, SMCS’s physical complex continued to grow under the tenure of Fr. Chi. When SMCS celebrated its 25th founding anniversary in 1983, various development such as the construction of comfort rooms, large classrooms and a cluster of offices were undertaken. A two-story structure was also put up to house classrooms for kindergarten pupils. Two years later, administrative offices on the ground floor of the schooll were renovated and a conference room was added.

To A Renewed Vision
The merging of the China Province Jesuits in the Philippines and the Philippine Province Jesuits in 1988 facilitated the missioning of Filipino Jesuits to the three Chinese-Filipino schools: Xavier School (San Juan, Metro Manila), Sacred Heart School-Jesuit (Cebu) and the Santa Maria Catholic School (Iloilo). In June 1991, Fr. Renato Puentevella, S.J. succeeded Fr. Chi as Director - Principal. During his five-year term, SMCS went through the Philippine Accrediting Association of Schools, Colleges and Universities (PAASCU) Preliminary Survey and Formal Survey.

The Grade School Department was granted a three-year PAASCU accreditation in 1995 and the High School Department followed suit the following year. Fr. Enrique Ma. Lalana, S.J. was appointed Director-Principal and Fr. Manuel A. Uy Jr., S.J. school chaplain and parish priest in June 1996. In November 1999, SMCS applied for PAASCU re-accreditation and was granted five years.

In the year 2000, Fr. Manuel A. Uy Jr., S.J. assumed the post of Director-Principal. Fr. Robert Exequiel Rivera, S.J. became the school’s chaplain for a year. When Fr. Emerito Salustiano de la Rama, S.J. came in 2001, he was appointed Assistant Director and the following year assumed the position of Principal of the Grade School Department. For the school year 2004-05, Mrs. Aurora de la Cruz was appointed Principal of the high school department. In November 2004, PAASCU conducted a resurvey visit. Both the Grade School and the High School Departments have been granted re-accreditation for 2005-2010.

Of A Higher and More Noble Dream
With the incessant clamor of SMCS alumni and the local Iloilo community to let their children study in a Jesuit school, a plan for expansion and transfer to a new and better site is in the offing.

As Santa Maria Catholic School continues its existence, it does so with renewed commitment to its mission: the Christian education and formation of the youth in Iloilo and Panay especially the Chinese Filipino youth. Thus it strives to endow them with necessary skills and tools for further development of their potential; to imbue them with values and ideals that reflect a genuine concern for participation in nation-building; and to inspire them by the personal example of Christ our Lord to become “men and women for others” in search for MAGIS for MORE in service and excellence.

To be able to answer this call and to better equip the students for the challenges of the future and the society where they will serve as builders and leaders, managers and movers, a great leap forward must be taken. It is an aspiration tempered by a deep faith in the benevolence of the Almighty that whatever endeavor, if undertaken in His name, shall see success and fruition.

Of Serving and Loving, In All
In April 30, 2004, a Memorandum of Agreement was signed by Jesuit Father Provincial Romeo J. Intengan, Fr. Manuel A. Uy Jr., S.J. Director of SMCS (now President of AdI-SMCS), and Mr. Victor F. Pison of the Kauturan Pison Development Corporation (KAPIDECO). Archibishop Angel N. Lagdameo of the Archdiocese of Jaro and Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas, an Ateneo de Manila alumnus, witnessed the MOA signing which formalized the establishment of an Ateneo de Iloilo - Santa Maria Catholic School in its new location in Mandurriao, Iloilo City.

Site development is now on its way in the new Ateneo site and is set for vertical construction, at least for the Grade School building, early next year. The elementary department is slated to transfer to the Mandurriao site late next year.

Undoubtedly, Ateneo de Iloilo - Santa Maria Catholic School is one of the premier schools in the Visayas as consistently evidenced by the awards, respects, and accolades it yearly receives in different facets of endeavor, may that be in the academics, outreach, spiritual development, sports, journalism, creative writing, public speaking, debates, and the arts, among others. And as it moves forward, it hopes to be a beacon of light in the Visayas by promoting a deeply Christo-centric spirituality while maintaining its first mission of ministering to the Chinese-Filipino community in Iloilo./Ripples

Source: The ILOILO Daily Informer (http://dailyinformer.info/index.php?option=com_content&task=section&id=13&Itemid=132)

[spacewagon1]

MegaWorld groundbreaking in 3 months, says Treñas
By Wenceslao E. Mateo Jr.

MEGAWORLD, the giant corporation which has acquired the 54.5 hectare site of the old Iloilo airport in Mandurriao, Iloilo City, is just too eager to start its business interests here.

After the turnover of property to it in simple ceremonies at the Sarabia Manor Hotel last Friday, MegaWorld announced, according to Mayor Jerry P. Treñas, that it has already scheduled its groundbreaking for the structures it would put up in the area three months after, or this coming January 2008.

“On January 10 (2008),” the mayor even confidently said.

“I understand that MegaWorld has already issued the checks to the National Government in full payment of the price of the lot,” the mayor also informed, adding the giant corporation has likewise paid to the city government the transfer tax on the property.

Asked if what would happen to the informal settlers in the area, Treñas said MegaWorld assured him that the 200 families here would be properly relocated once it starts works on its buildings.

Architect Celino Falafox Jr., a world renowned Filipino architect, will design the MegaWorld buildings, the mayor also informed.

He added that MegaWorld would put up in the area call centers, an amusement park, a world-class convention center, and likewise a world-class hospital that could cater to tourist patients along the government’s medical tourism thrust.


Source: The ILOILO Daily Informer (http://dailyinformer.info/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1546&Itemid=137)

[spacewagon1]

Garbage scavengers
to undergo training

ILOILO City – The city government will engage the Iloilo Business Club (IBC) in providing “capability training” to some 100 scavenger-families at the Calajunan dumpsite in Mandurriao district as part of the social development component of the dumpsite conversion into a sanitary landfill.

General Services Office chief Engr. Raul Gallo said he looked forward to the support that will be provided by the IBC in terms of trainings for livelihood programs and other livelihood options for "waste pickers" once the dumpsite will be closed.

"It is our social responsibility to provide them other options once they will be displaced in the future," Gallo explained.

The city is now implementing Phases 1 and 2, which include infrastructure support, of the sanitary landfill component.

Gallo said infrastructure support such as drainage system, access road, fencing, composting house, lights, water supply and administration building are being established.
A feasibility study and the detailed engineering design of the landfill are now up for bidding.

Gallo said he is optimistic the project will be completed in 2009.

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

^^ ^^ more than anything else, we need to help our unfortunate kasimanwas. I hope the city government's project to train the scavengers will give light and hope for them to find better ways to live life back home. I salute Trenas for his continuous support for the city's poor and desolate. Thank you, Sir.

[hiiamdib]

MegaWorld groundbreaking in 3 months, says Treñas
By Wenceslao E. Mateo Jr.

MEGAWORLD, the giant corporation which has acquired the 54.5 hectare site of the old Iloilo airport in Mandurriao, Iloilo City, is just too eager to start its business interests here.

After the turnover of property to it in simple ceremonies at the Sarabia Manor Hotel last Friday, MegaWorld announced, according to Mayor Jerry P. Treñas, that it has already scheduled its groundbreaking for the structures it would put up in the area three months after, or this coming January 2008.

“On January 10 (2008),” the mayor even confidently said.

“I understand that MegaWorld has already issued the checks to the National Government in full payment of the price of the lot,” the mayor also informed, adding the giant corporation has likewise paid to the city government the transfer tax on the property.

Asked if what would happen to the informal settlers in the area, Treñas said MegaWorld assured him that the 200 families here would be properly relocated once it starts works on its buildings.

Architect Celino Falafox Jr., a world renowned Filipino architect, will design the MegaWorld buildings, the mayor also informed.

He added that MegaWorld would put up in the area call centers, an amusement park, a world-class convention center, and likewise a world-class hospital that could cater to tourist patients along the government’s medical tourism thrust.


Source: The ILOILO Daily Informer (http://dailyinformer.info/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1546&Itemid=137)

Can't wait, Im too excited for Iloilo. They will build skyscrapers right? Post some rendering please... Would Megaworld change Iloilo's skies forever? I am sure, the new airport will be greatly appreciated and used when business in Iloilo Business Park starts. I hope it caters to international planes soon.

[lewdsaint]

More news about the development of old Mandurriao Airport into new business park...

Treñas elated by purchase of old airport site
By Ronilo L. Pamonag

Mayor Jerry Treñas expressed elation over the decision of real estate developer Megaworld Corp. to pour in P1.5 billion worth of investments in the City.


Corporate officials made the announcement during last Friday's turn over ceremonies for the old Iloilo airport in Mandurriao district.

Megaworld Corp. bested three other real estate developers for the 54-hectare oil airport, which the government privatized following the construction of the P6.2 billion New Iloilo Airport at Cabatuan town.

The corporation shelled out P1.2 billion to purchase the airport. They plan to spend another P1.5 billion to develop the property, Kingson Sian, executive director and senior vice president of Megaworld Corp., said during a presentation.

Sian revealed that they will turn the old Iloilo airport into a 'live-work-play-learn community.'

Megaworld will be building a business process outsourcing, condominium units, a hotel, a convention center, a themed commercial/retail center, a recreation area, and a skills training center, he said.

We are very bullish about the property market, he said.

Sian pointed out several factors indicating an upbeat real estate market: the demand by mid-income earners for houses, low mortgage interest rates, the Overseas Contract Workers market, and government spending on infrastructure.

Treñas said that Megaworld's investments would mean additional jobs for City residents.

The graduates of our universities and colleges would no longer have to go to Metro Manila or go abroad just to find a job, the mayor said.

It's not so much about the taxes that would accrue to the City, he said, but about employment opportunities.

However, the mayor expressed concern over the power glut in the city. He said that Megaworld would need about 35 megawatts of power, something which independent power producer Panay Power Corporation cannot supply at the present.

City officials are currently evaluating a proposal to build a coal-fired power plant in the City.

Because of the privatization of the old airport, the government was able to realize P1.2 billion, Finance Sec. Margarito Teves said during the turn over ceremonies. The income will be entered in the books for October.

To date, the government was able to raise P43.2 billion from the sale of its assets, including shareholdings . Teves said that the government received substantial income from the sale of its shares in the Philippine Telecommunications Investment Corporation (PTIC) and the Philippine National Oil Corporaion-Energy Development Company (PNOC-EDC).

Proceeds realized out of the privatization of its assets has helped the government address its yawning budget deficit.



Development of old airport into business park to kick off next year
By Maricar M. Calubiran

Megaworld Corporation's Executive and Senior Vice President Kingson U. Sian projected that development at the old airport site in Mandurriao district will start early next year. The development will take place as soon the development master plan with the concept of "live-work-play-learn community" is done.


Megaworld hired the topnotch services of architectural firm Palafox Associates in drafting a development master plan for the old airport lot. The development at the upcoming business park will depend on the demand, said Sian.

The future business park will have a Business Processing Outsourcing (BPO), residential, hotel, convention center, commercial and retail outlets, skills training center and recreation facilities. This is the first major investment of Megaworld outside Manila. "Megaworld is bullish and committed to Iloilo," said Sian.

As soon as the development master plan is completed, the ground work will start. The corporation will hire local workers as initial work opportunities they can offer to Ilonggos prior to the business park's operation.

Sian considers having business in the city as "wise investment." He said one of the key factors for success is manpower availability. We are satisfied with the quality of labor here particularly in hosting Business Process Outsourcing (BPO).

Sian along with other top Megaword officials made rounds in several universities in Iloilo City last week to check on the manpower capability of Iloilo City. Manpower, stable power supply and telecommunications are among the key factors that the corporation wants to strengthen as they envision a live-work-play-learn community for Iloilo City.

Sian is also confident that the city will address their power needs as soon as they start the business. Initially, they need 35 megawatts of power. The availability of power is a major factor in BPO operation. The call centers operate in 24/7 basis.

Other than power, manpower and telecommunication, the corporation is likewise looking into the fate of the occupants of the airport. The eviction of the families and offices will be a joint effort of the corporation and the local government unit, said Sian.


Sevilla is city's adopted son
By Maricar M. Calubiran

City Mayor Jerry Treñas has declared Department of Finance Undersecretary for Privatization John Philip Sevilla an adopted son of Iloilo City for his effort in completing the sale of the old airport site.


The declaration was embodied in Executive Order No. 53-2007 issued by Mayor Treñas. A plaque was given to Sevilla Friday last week during the turn-over ceremony of the old airport to Megaworld Corporation.

Treñas said Sevilla personally committed himself in the successful completion of the sale of the Iloilo airport to the Megaworld Corporation. The corporation bought the property for P1.2 billion and will initially pour in some P1.5 billion investments.

It is the The Privatization Council that gave the final approval for any bids and proposals. The council is composed of the of the Departments of Finance, Justice, Budget and Management, Trade and the National Economic Development Authority

Treñas said the airport sale has already generated substantial amount of income for the city. It will also ensure the additional employment and development for the city in the future. Last week, Megaworld paid its P9 million transfer tax to the city.

The property developer outbid Robinsons Land 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.


All from The News Today Online (http://www.thenewstoday.info/index.htm)

[spacewagon1]

A city public college mulled for Iloilo City
By Wenceslao E. Mateo Jr.

THERE is good reason for former Councilor Erlinda Liberiaga to be extremely happy, even as she is no longer a member of the City Council to push her dream ordinance for the children of the poor with a city public college, which the august body failed to act upon during her incumbency.

Councilor Jeffrey Ganzon, son of the late Senator Rodolfo Ganzon, who pioneered free elementary and secondary education in the country, has taken over her unfinished task.

On agenda for first reading in their session last October 10, was Ganzon’s proposed ordinance repealing Ordinance 94-035, which created the Iloilo City Technical Institute, and transforming it into the beginnings of a city public college he named as the “Colegio sang Ciudad sang Iloilo.”

According to his chief of staff, Mrs. Teresita Gonzales, the proposed city public college was largely patterned from that of Makati City, which its city council passed at a time when the presiding officer was then Vice Mayor Edu Manzano, Ganzon noted in his proposed ordinance that even smaller cities like Taguig, Muntinlupa and the new City of San Juan have already organized and operated universities and colleges “in response to the urgent need of providing broader accessibility to relevant college education to poor but deserving students and out-of-school youths.”

In the region, one such city public college is found in Bacolod City, which lately graduated its first batch of college degree holders.

Acknowledging the existing scholarship program of the city – originally the Timawa Scholarships of his late father – the younger Ganzon, however, stressed that “there is now an urgent and widespread demand to expand and broaden said scholarship and avail of the new concepts of college education by establishing and operating a city college.”

He stressed that “(E)ver Filipino has the right to quality education at all levels which shall be accessible to all the people.”

The younger Ganzon also emphasized that “Education is a key investment which can break the endless cycle of poverty and socio-economic barriers, and it will provide the people, particularly the financially disadvantaged youth, with more opportunities.”

Source: The ILOILO Daily Informer (http://dailyinformer.info/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1551&Itemid=137)

[spacewagon1]

Iloilo to host 4th National Organic Farming Congress

The 4th National Organic Agriculture Congress opens in Iloilo City on October 17-18, 2007 at the Sarabia Manor Hotel and Convention Center. The theme of the Congress is "Converging Thrusts for the Organic Industry Development in the Philippines."

This event is organized by the Bureau of Agriculture and Fishery Product Standards of the Department of Agriculture (DA-BAFPS), headed by Director Gilbert Layese. The Congress is organized in cooperation with the Western Visayas Agriculture and Resources Research and Development Consortium (WESVARRDEC) chaired by Prof. Marilou Ang – Lopez, and the Panay Organic Producers Association, Inc (POPA), headed by Ms. Dawn Jamandre. ABS-CBN is the media partner for the event.

The collaborative hosting of the 4th National Organic Agriculture Conference in Iloilo City by the BAFPS, WESVARRDEC, POPA and ABS-CBN is timely and relevant for Region 6 which is known as a major producer of the organic "muscovado" sugar, organic "darag" native chicken, organic "balangon" banana chips and other organic products. The partnership also demonstrates the serious efforts of the private business and government sectors to work together for the promotion of knowledge, technologies and practices in organic farming.

The global growing demand for safe, pesticide-free and naturally-farmed products has triggered interest on natural and organic farming. Still considered as a budding sector in Philippine agriculture, nonetheless, organic food production belongs to the top ten priority sectors for revenue development in the Philippines (DTI, 2006). Thus, the Executive Order 481 aims to "promote organic agriculture development, conserve environmental resources and promote social equity and product access to foreign and domestic markets."
Participation in the Congress is by invitation only. For more information please log on to the website of the Bureau of Agriculture and Fisheries Product Standards at http://www.bafps.da. gov ph. or call Lara or Rosemarie at (02)920-6131 or (02) 920-6133.

Source: The News Today (http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/10/15/iloilo.to.host.4th.national.organic.farming.congress.html)

[spacewagon1]

New WVSU prexy to pursue leadership by collaboration

The new president of West Visayas State University has underscored the need to pursue leadership by collaboration during his term in order to advance the thrusts and priorities of his administration.

In his investiture address, Dr. Pablo E. Subong, Jr., emphasized that facing the challenges and implementing the themes of his administration is not a solitary exercise. “I go for a presidential leadership that collaborates and connects with both the capacities and aspirations of the entire University community,” he said.

Dr. Subong outlined eight imperatives that will form the priorities of his administration as follows: (1) Elevate the teaching, research and scholarship capabilities of the faculty; (2) Strengthen graduate programs; (3) Enhance the undergraduate experience of students; (4) Ensure that students acquire appropriate knowledge, skills and competencies; (5) Demand for enlightened governance and leadership; (6) Enhance the Business Affairs Program (BAP); (7) Support RA 8435; and (8) Effectively implement the Poverty Alleviation Program (PAP) of the University and continuously provide services for the people of the community that the University serves.

Under his leadership, Dr. Subong told the WVSU community to expect greater things from each other, because he said “the best days lie ahead of us.” “By partnering and collaborating with the world around us, we will meet challenges head-on as we tell a new story about WVSU and make the future brighter for generations to come,” he further said.

Dr. Subong was installed as the 6th president of the premier institution in Western Visayas in ceremonies held October 9, 2007 at the WVSU Cultural Center. The investiture rite was officiated by the Honorable Hdja. Luningning Misuarez Umar, Commissioner, Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and Chair-designate WVSU Board of Regents. The ceremony was witnessed by the members of the WVSU Board of Regents, University officials, PASUC VI officials, government officials and representatives from business and civil society.

The new president is a product of schools in the Philippine and abroad. He holds a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree major in Curriculum Administration from Deakin University, Victoria, Australia in 2003. He finished his Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) degree in 1998 and his Master of Agriculture (M.Agr.) in 1984 from West Visayas State University. He earned a Certificate Program in Teaching College Physics from University of the Philippines in Diliman and a Graduate Diploma in Curriculum Administration in Mathematics from Deakin University. He obtained his Bachelor of Science in Agriculture degree major in Agricultural Engineering from Central Philippine University in 1976.

Prior to being president, Dr. Subong was Campus Administrator of WVSU Calinog Campus, Vice President for Administration, and Dean, College of Arts & Sciences, respectively.

He is an expert in agriculture, education, business, marketing and medical research, statistics and data analysis procedure, educational planning and management. # (WVSU-CIAO)


Source: The ILOILO Daily Informer (http://dailyinformer.info/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1548&Itemid=137)

[spacewagon1]

‘Ilonggos to spend happy, not so bleak Christmas’
By Niña Jane A. Souribio

With prices of commodities remain stable in the market, undoubtedly “a happy and not so bleak Christmas” is coming ahead, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) regional office here said.

DTI Regional Director Dominic Abad said based on their latest monitoring, primary commodities and other items in the market including imported goods are still at “reasonable” prices.

If there are other items that increased their prices, they are only quite few caused by an increase in the cost of raw materials, he added.

Prices of milk, sugar, rice and fish in the market remain stable, said Abad.
For the past two months, Abad said, in fact a detergent bar has been decreasing its price.

“It’s actually looking at two sides of a coin. If the prices are down but you don’t have money in your pocket, that’s a problem. So even if the prices increases, but we do have the money to buy the products there’s no big deal,” Abad said.

PESO GAINS
Last week, the Philippine peso gained to the highest in seven years.
It was reported that the currency rose 0.9 percent to P44.355 against the US dollar as of the 4 p.m. close of trading in Manila, according to Tullett Prebon Plc, the world’s second-largest inter-dealer broker.

The peso closed at its highest since the rate of P44.305 on July 10, 2000.
A banker had reportedly predicted that the peso will probably reach P43 by year-end as Filipinos abroad send money home to pay for relatives’ education and for Christmas.

Meanwhile, Abad welcomed the acquisition of old airport area in Mandurriao district here by giant developer Megaworld Corporation with a high note.
The investment of Megaworld in the city “will surely a big leap and jumpstart for the economy here,” said Abad.

Source: The ILOILO Daily Informer (http://dailyinformer.info/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1552&Itemid=137)

[spacewagon1]

Iloilo City officials’ overseas ocular of coal-fired plant hit
Danny Fajardo

ILOILO CITY — The city vice mayor and his seven councilors flew to Taiwan over the weekend to observe the coal-fired power plant technology being used there in generating electricity.

Their trip, reportedly sponsored by the company that put up the coal-fired power plant in Taiwan, has been made despite protests from environment groups here.

Mayor Jerry Treñas, who visited Taiwan last week at the expense of the company that proposed to put up a coal-fired power plant here, has been charged criminally and administratively before the Ombudsman by environmentalists upon his return.

Vice Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog and councilors Lyndon Acap, Julienne Baronda, Jose Espinosa III, Ely Estante Jr., Armando Parcon, Nielex Tupas, and Eduardo Peñaredondo secured an authority to travel from Interior and Local Government Undersecretary Austere Panadero.

All the travel and on-site expenses for the trip are being shouldered by Global Business Power Corp. (GPPC), it was learned.

GPPC is reportedly the proponent of the 100-megawatt coal-fired power plant project in this city.

Last week, the Responsible Ilonggos for Sustainable Energy (RISE) filed criminal and administrative complaints against Treñas before the Office of the Ombudsman Visayas over his recent trip to Taiwan.

RISE is a coalition of non-governmental, people’s organizations, and civic groups here. Lawyer Romeo Gerochi accused Treñas of grave misconduct and for violating the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees.

source: Manila Bulletin (http://www.mb.com.ph/PROV20071015105765.html)

[zhock2001]

what's happening here! anyway, let everyone speak his heart out... if we all think some things are good for us and birdflu thinks otherwise, it has still to be a welcome comment from him... neither a bird nor a flu can change our city's destiny... let's just keep on painting a colorful portarit of our city ok!

to you birdflu... that was such a statement, keep on doing your thing as long as it doesn't break forum rules... i got interested in this thread again... heheh... let's get back to work!

[habagatcentral1]

^^ Hehe! As long as he doesn't step on someone's toes, his statements are welcome here.

By the way, I'm on alert for something, hehehe!! :D

I'll be posting a video that we may dream to hear (and will be, hehehe! ;) ) from a flight attendant but as of this moment, we need to have her corrected.

[iloilocitykid]

^^ My psychic senses tell me that we will soon have international flights. :banana: Like that isn't expected. I hope it reaches in time for Dinagyang. :rock:

[COLLIN JASPER]

Multi-sectoral group backs tourist promenade proposal

A MULTI-sectoral group composed of businessmen, hotel executives, bankers, educators, lawyers and other professionals strongly endorsed the proposal of the Iloilo Hotel Resorts and Restaurants Association to develop a Tourist Promenade along the banks of Iloilo River.
In a press statement, the multi-sectoral group said the promenade will begin from Gaisano City Mall up to the Carpenter’s Bridge in Molo.

Hotel executives and tour operators are pushing for the project in line with the national government’s thrust to transform Western Visayas into the tourism super region.
“Tourism officials and our City Planning Office must coordinate and act immediately on these urgent proposal and request for appropriation for this very important tourism infrastructure through the Department of Tourism because it is clearly included as one of the priority programs of our President,” the group said

The multi-sectoral group also suggested that the tourism committee of the Iloilo City Council headed by Councilors Armand Parcon and Julienne Baronda, chairman and vice-chairman, respectively, pass an ordinance or resolution calling for the development of the tourist promenade.

The development of the infrastructure can be done in phases.

Phase I will start from Gaisano City Mall up to the Jalandoni Bridge near the Residence Hotel. Phase 2 will begin from the Jalandoni Bridge up to the Marina Restaurant area, while Phase 3 will start from Marina to Carpenter’s bridge in Molo, Iloilo City. During the development, the thorough cleaning of the Iloilo River will begin.

At the same time, two “water taxis” to be operated by private businessmen will be launched and inaugurated.

These taxis are flat-bottom boats powered by second hand jeepney engines. It can accommodate 20 to 30 passengers. Aside from being a major tourist attraction, this will also help solve traffic problems.
Educators from engineering schools of various universities in the city suggested the holding of a Tourist Promenade Design Contest.

The mechanics of this contest and the prizes will be made by the “Design Contest Committee” headed by Engr. Manny Tingson.

Tingson will also recommend to Parcon the appropriation needed for the contest.

Some of the world-famous tourist promenades are the San Antonio City “River Walk” in Texas, USA; Geneva River Bank in Geneva, Switzerland; Rhine River Tree-Shaded Promenade in Rhine, Germany and the famous canals and river promenade of Venice, Italy.

[spacewagon1]

ECONOMIC BOOM
US official sees robust
growth of Iloilo City
By DAVID ISRAEL SINAY

ILOILO City – A United States Department of State official predicts an economic boom for this city following the entry here of one of the fastest growing companies in the country.

US Deputy Counselor Economic Section Tim Neely, who visited Mayor Jerry Treñas yesterday, was referring to Megaworld Corp.’s plan to develop the old Iloilo airport into a business square focusing on business process outsourcing (BPO) centers.

“I am impressed. (Megaworld) could generate five to seven additional investments here,” Neely told reporters.

He and Treñas discussed business prospects for Iloilo City.

Megaworld Corp., one of the country’s leading property developers, is investing P1.5 billion to transform the 54-hectare airport property in Mandurriao district. The company recently acquired the property from the national government at P1.2 billion.

Aside from establishment of BPO offices, Megaworld plans to construct mid-income housing units, a hotel, a convention center, commercial retail services, skills training center, and recreation facilities.

Megaworld’s executive director and senior vice president Kingson Sian was here last week.

“Iloilo is one of the centers of education in the Philippines because of the presence of many universities and colleges that produce a lot of graduates. They offer very good opportunities for BPO companies to come and invest here,” Neely said.

Neely said, “Iloilo, like the Philippines as a whole, is really turning a corner in terms of economic development. The Philippines is entering an era of higher growth that is sustainable, as well.”

Megaworld Corp. hopes to start the development as early as the first quarter next year.
“The faster the infrastructures are placed the faster the investments pour in,” Sian had said.

Converting the old airport property “into a vibrant economic catalyst for Iloilo” will be the company’s first major investment outside Metro Manila, according to Sian.

source: Panay News (http://www.panaynewsphilippines.com/iloilo3.htm)

[spacewagon1]

^^ My psychic senses tell me that we will soon have international flights. :banana: Like that isn't expected. I hope it reaches in time for Dinagyang. :rock:
you're psyche might be right, iloilocitykid. We're moving forward and that's what best going on in Iloilo right now. I think chartered flights will be welcomed in NIA soon with a tentative date before Dinagyang. However, we still have so much to do as Ilonggos. To sustain these chartered flights, we need to be focus on our tourism potentials in promoting Iloilo. The commercial and other business aspects will be taken care off Megaworld, other big rsidential developers, commercial investments ongoing in the city right now and in the future. We can see the trend already but let these good signs stop us from what we are doing. We need to continue to look what's best Iloilo can promote outside and how we can sustain the influx of tourists and tourism potentials in our city and province. Again, today is a challenging times for Iloilo. And I am really looking forward to its developments.

[SamwiseGamgee]

Yugs, abi ko anay ang title sg thread ta: Iloilo - Old World Charm, Vibrant Future, nahlain na gali? :D

[Pacific_leopard]

Calle Real

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2174/1583258063_832ca0b68e.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2364/1583255375_1476e33303.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2259/1584157316_4f591c3a79.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2028/1583270927_158d115bcb.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2159/1584154120_2e8c007a62.jpg

[eonynx]

Yugs, abi ko anay ang title sg thread ta: Iloilo - Old World Charm, Vibrant Future, nahlain na gali? :D

i thought so too!:) this was agreed upon by the majority a long time ago.

[iloilocitykid]

^^ Sorry for that. I didn't there was such a rule. Anyway, anyone can feel free to edit the title. :okay:

[spacewagon1]

Iloilo entering era of higher growth, says US envoy
By Maricar M. Calubiran

United States Department of State Deputy Counselor for Economic Section Tim Neely said Iloilo City is "entering the era of higher growth" with the opening of the Megaworld Corporation and Iloilo airport of international standards in Cabatuan-Sta. Barbara recently.

Neely said the upcoming development at the old airport site specifically with the establishment of a Business Processing Outsourcing (BPO) is already a good opportunity for the people especially with the kind of education centers here.

Neely yesterday paid a visit to Mayor Jerry Treñas and had a brief conversation over the projected development in the city. Prior to his visit at the mayor's office, he also went to the office of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) for a short briefing with DTI officials on Iloilo's macro-economic state. He was likewise the commencement speaker of the Central Philippine University.

Neely also met with officials of the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) to have an idea of the coconut industry here. The coconut production is one of the potential commodity in the place. He has no idea that the coconut trees in Boracay and some towns in Iloilo are infected with coconut beetle or brontispa.

Neely was born at the Iloilo Mission Hospital and same time spent his high school years at the Central Philippine University. He still knew how to speak some Hiligaynon words and sing lullaby.

"Filipinos and Americans get along well because Filipinos in general are friendly and hospitable. There is a cultural rapport among Filipinos and Americans. This is also the reason why companies would like to invest in the country. It is a positive and big attraction among the investors," said Counselor Neely.

source: The News Today (http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/10/16/iloilo.entering.era.of.higher.growth.says.us.envoy.html)

[spacewagon1]

DTI certified establishments in City awarded
By Maricar M. Calubiran

The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) yesterday awarded seven business establishments in Iloilo with the Certified Establishment silver and bronze seals.

Named as DTI-Certified Establishments are Nissan Iloilo (S&J) Motors Inc. (silver seal) and Naces Appliances (bronze seal) for repair and service shops category. At the same time, Naces Appliance Sales Corporation also received a bronze seal for the appliance center category.

For the supermart category, five Iloilo Supermart branches namely Iloilo Supermart (The Atrium), Iloilo Supermart (Valeria-Delgado), Iloilo Supermart (Avanceña, Molo), Iloilo Supermart (Tabuc Suba, Jaro) and Iloilo Supermart (Q. Abeto, Mandurriao) were also given bronze seals.

A bronze seal is given to firms that have complied with the Fair Trade Law such as the Consumer Act, Price Act, Price Tag Law and have established a Consumer Welfare Desk. While, a silver seal is awarded to establishment that complies with the bronze requirements but have shown social commitment by involving in civic action projects or worthwhile local charitable projects.

In Iloilo, no establishment has yet to be given the gold seal. Gold seal certification is granted to firms that achieved the silver requirements at the same time compliant with some elements of ISO 9001/14001. The DTI-Certified Establishment Seal (DTI-CE) program was started in 2006. All retail establishments, supermarkets, department stores, appliance centers, hardware stores and DTI accredited service and repair shops may apply for the certification program

Iloilo Provincial Director Diosdado Cadena Jr. said the seven establishments were among the few establishments in the city that applied for the certification establishment seal. Nevertheless, he challenged all the establishments and 17 exhibitors that are participating in the Consumer Welfare and Product Safety and Quality Standards Expo 2007 at the Robinsons Place to also get certified.

Cadena said an establishment that has certification establishment seal has already an edge compared with other establishments in the city. The program is open to all establishments that has no record of complaints related to the Fair Trade Laws. Establishments have nothing to pay for in order to apply, said Cadena.

source: The News Today (http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/10/16/dti.certified.establishments.in.city.awarded.html)

[iloilocitykid]

Can I change the title of the thread?

[spacewagon1]

^^ leave it, iloilocitykid. It's an innocent mistake IMO. We'll just make sure that the next thread will be re-titled properly.

[spacewagon1]

Confusion mars first day of traffic experimentation for city loop PUJs
By Maricar M. Calubiran

The first day of the rerouting of city loop public utility jeepneys created confusion among the commuters. Traffic build up were experienced from General Luna until the Atrium and several other major thoroughfares.

Commuters have to ask on whether the public jeepneys will pass by the streets that they normally take. The affected routes includes Villa, Mandurriao, Jaro Liko (Tagbak), Lapuz and Calumpang.

In the current traffic routes, Villa jeepneys shall pass thru Avanceña Street. After reaching Molo plaza they shall turn right to Lopez Jaena Street and turn left to M.H. Del Pilar and turn left to M.H. Del Pilar. They shall go straight to Gen. Luna. Then turn right to Quezon Street and turn left to Rizal Street. From Rizal, they will turn to Valeria Street. In going back to their point of origin, they shall proceed to Gen. Luna Street to San Marcos Avenue to Avanceña Street and back to their point of origin.

For Mandurriao to Iloilo City route, Mandurriao jeepneys whether passing via Molo or Benigno Aquino Avenue, upon reaching Gen. Luna Street shall turn right to Jalandoni Street, turn left towards Ledesma Street, turn right to Iznart Street, turn right to Rizal Street, turn right to Valeria Extension, proceed to Valeria Street, turn left to Delgado Street, turn right to Mabini Street, turn left towards Gen. Luna.

In going back to Mandurriao, Mandurriao (via Benigno Aquino) will pass by General Luna right towards Benigno Aquino Avenue and back to the original point.

For Mandurriao Molo route, they will take the General Luna and proceed to San Marcos Avenue, upon reaching Molo Plaza turn right to the direction of Carpenters Bridge and back to point of origin.

For Jaro-Liko (Tagbak), from their point of origin, public utility jeepneys upon reaching Jaro Plaza instead of E. Lopez Street shall turn left to Rizal Street (fronting Archbishop's Palace), turn right to Commission Civil, turn right to Del Carmen Street, turn left to E. Lopez Street, take the stretch of Luna Street, turn left to Mabini Street, turn left to De Leon Street, turn right to Quezon Street, turn left to Rizal Street, turn left to Valeria Extension, proceed the entire stretch of Valeria Street turn right to Gen. Luna Street, proceed to direction and turn left to Muelle Loney Street, cross Drilon Bridge, turn left at Rizal Street (Lapaz), turn right to Magdalo Street, turn left to Burgos Street, proceed to Commission Civil Street to the direction of Jaro Plaza, turn right to Washington Street, back to point of origin.

For Lapuz route, from their point of origin (either through Quirino Bridge or Rizal Street-Muelle Loney) shall enter Iznart Street, proceed to J.M. Basa Street, turn right to Mapa Street, turn right to Rizal Street, turn right to Valeria Extension, traverse entire length of Valeria Street, turn right to Gen. Luna Street to the direction of Quirino Bridge and back to their point of origin.

While, for Calumpang route, Calumpang jeepneys, from their point of origin after passing Molo Boulevard shall turn left to Baluarte Street, towards the direction of Tanza, and enter Ledesma Street, turn right to Jalandoni Street, turn left to De Leon Street, turn left to Fuentes Street, turn right back to Ledesma Street, turn right to Iznart Street, turn left to Rizal Street, turn left to Ortiz Street, turn right to J.M. Basa Street. In going back, turn right to Ledesma Street in the direction of Tanza and Infante, turn right to Baluarte Street, turn left to Molo Boulevard and back to their point of origin.

Mayor Jerry Treñas asked the commuters to be extra patient while the traffic experimentation is going on. He said he also wants feed back from commuters on the experimentation. As of 10:00 am, the traffic build up is noted at the Atrium.

source: The News Today (http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/10/16/confusion.mars.first.day.of.traffic.experimentation.for.city.loop.pujs.html)

[spacewagon1]

TRAFFIC IMPROVEMENT
Plagata’s next move: Run after jaywalkers and illegal parking
By Niña Jane A. Souribio

After the two traffic experimentations, Councilor Erwin Plagata will focus on limiting the parking of private vehicles in main streets and strict enforcement of anti-jaywalking ordinance.

“Tadlungon ta ni. Kinanglan ta sang information dissemination. Damo pa kita dapat nga himuon,” said Plagata.

Yesterday, the city government started the traffic experiment affecting public utility jeepneys (PUJs) of city loop organizations.

It is the second traffic experimentation implemented in the city which synchronizes with the ongoing traffic rerouting test that involves PUJs from nearby towns of Santa Barbara, Leganes, Oton and San Miguel, all members of the Metro Iloilo Development Council.

Like the first one, the traffic test is also implemented in 30 days. Affected by the rerouting test were PUJs from Villa, Arevalo, Jaro Liko, Mandurriao, Lapuz and Calumpang.

Plagata, chairman of the Council committee on transportation, said officials of city loop organizations have vowed to support the rerouting test.

Meanwhile, PUJs from the towns of Santa Barbara, Oton, Leganes and San Miguel continue to protest the traffic experimentation. Transport organizations complained that in the past few days since the start of the implementation of the 30-day traffic implementation last October 3 their income have gone down.

Plagata said they have agreed lately to allow PUJs from the neighboring towns of Iloilo City until plazas of Jaro and Molo if they are fully loaded with passengers.

Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas shrugged off the strike saying that the city government’s 30-day traffic experimentation will go on despite oppositions from the transport groups.

The city mayor, however, admitted that “it creates some pressure but we have to go on what we have to do.”

Members of MIDC had aired their complaints to Iloilo Governor Niel Tupas over the implementation of traffic experiment.

source: The ILOILO Daily Informer (http://dailyinformer.info/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1557&Itemid=137)

[iloilocitykid]

^^ Yep. Is it just Old World Charm, Vibrant Future forever? or was it intended for this thread only?

Grabe si Plagata! He's got my vote in 2010 for Mayor! :cheers:

[spacewagon1]

i think when we voted for the title, it will be like forever here. I don't know as well since I loved to switch the title back to "The Heart of the Philippines". Because the title looks like for Iloilo City alone and the province are just in the background only. Anyhow, we'll see. But for now and maybe for the next few threads, the title "Old World Charm, Vibrant Future" is appropriate enough for both the city and province's rising economy.

[habagatcentral1]

Unahon ko anay bad news ta diri sa Ciudad kag Provincia sang Iloilo:

BAD NEWS
1. Traffic was confusing. They also rerouted several city loop jeepneys (especially the south). Leganes-Highway cannot penetrate Robinsons and Marymart anymore.
2. Flyover's approach is still...not yet constructed.
3. Several days of torrential rains have brought the major roads in Iloilo City as like terra luna or like the terrain of the moon.
4. The politics of coal

Ari naman ang good news:

We (Chy, Pacific and IAMME) will be working closely with the City Government of Iloilo for the next several days in preparation for a convention to be held in 9 November at Sarabia Manor. I have spoken with Ben Jimena earlier this morning and this is what I've heard from him.

GOOD NEWS
1. Megaworld invested a total of P2.7Billion in Iloilo. P1.5B for inital investment, P1.2B for the purchase of the real estate.
2. Megaworld may start executing their plan by this date: 10 January 2008
3. Sutherland BPO stopped negotiating with the bank in Iznart and instead, negotiating with Kia Showroom in Balantang Jaro. It will be a bigger office space for the said BPO.
4. Dagoy, adapted mascot of the City Government of Iloilo itself.
5. Dinagyang Ati tribes will be painted in dark brown instead of the traditional black.

They will be making Megaworld's investment synonymous to Iloilo just like the Ayalas to Cebu.

Ari nabatian ko lang ni kay Eric and will be confirming it:
Dinagyang Ati-Ati will be in the afternoon instead of morning.


That's all for now. :okay:

[iloilocitykid]

^^ Great info bern. It's nice that they changed the Dinagyang to the afternoon since it won't be uncomfortable. Anyway, is Kasadyahan still a sideline of Dinagyang or was the event moved?

[habagatcentral1]

^^ There were initial plans to seperate Kasadyahan from Dinagyang as it will showcase the Iloilo Province's festivals and culture but the problem though is that it is only being manned by only one person at the provincial tourism office and will be needing more assistance.

[iloilocitykid]

^^ Ahay. Hope they'll do it.

[habagatcentral1]

Megaworld buys 54.5-hectare Old Iloilo Airport


Megaworld Corporation has signed a Sale and Purchase Agreement with the Government of the Republic of the Philippines for the purchase of the 54.5-hectare Old Iloilo airport situated in Mandurriao, Iloilo City, for the purchase price of one billion two hundred million pesos in cash. Megaworld will apply with the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) for a special economic zone license for its project aimed at transforming the Old Iloilo airport property into a new business district. 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 valueadded 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.

For more news and information, contact:
Megaworld Corporation 28/F The World Centre
330 Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue, Makati City, Philippines
Phone: [63] 2-867-8826 to 40

Source: Megaworld Corporation (http://www.megaworldcorp.com/index.cfm?action=news#)

[daks2003]

Unahon ko anay bad news ta diri sa Ciudad kag Provincia sang Iloilo:

BAD NEWS
1. Traffic was confusing. They also rerouted several city loop jeepneys (especially the south). Leganes-Highway cannot penetrate Robinsons and Marymart anymore.
2. Flyover's approach is still...not yet constructed.
3. Several days of torrential rains have brought the major roads in Iloilo City as like terra luna or like the terrain of the moon.
4. The politics of coal

Ari naman ang good news:

We (Chy, Pacific and IAMME) will be working closely with the City Government of Iloilo for the next several days in preparation for a convention to be held in 9 November at Sarabia Manor. I have spoken with Ben Jimena earlier this morning and this is what I've heard from him.

GOOD NEWS
1. Megaworld invested a total of P2.7Billion in Iloilo. P1.5B for inital investment, P1.2B for the purchase of the real estate.
2. Megaworld may start executing their plan by this date: 10 January 2008
3. Sutherland BPO stopped negotiating with the bank in Iznart and instead, negotiating with Kia Showroom in Balantang Jaro. It will be a bigger office space for the said BPO.
4. Dagoy, adapted mascot of the City Government of Iloilo itself.
5. Dinagyang Ati tribes will be painted in dark brown instead of the traditional black.

They will be making Megaworld's investment synonymous to Iloilo just like the Ayalas to Cebu.

Ari nabatian ko lang ni kay Eric and will be confirming it:
Dinagyang Ati-Ati will be in the afternoon instead of morning.


That's all for now. :okay:

^^^^^^
Wow..galeng ng info mo Berns. Sutherland's move to locate in Jaro is something to look forward to.

[shyaman]

@kid, I was amazed at your signature. At first instance, I thought I read...
ILOILO CITY: AGE OLD CITY OF LOVE OF POWER AND MONEY!:D

[spacewagon1]

GSIS Iloilo ranks 2nd
in eCard enrollees

ILOILO City – The Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) Field Office in Iloilo ranked second among eCard enrollees from the Department of Education (DepEd).

Recent data from the GSIS showed that the personnel from the DepEd who have enrolled to the eCard Plus are the highest in number after accounting for 13.5 percent of the total eCard Plus holders among DepEd employees.

To date, around 97 percent of the total 531,098 DepEd employees all over the country, mostly public school teachers have already enrolled to the eCard Plus.

Based on the GSIS data, the employees of DepEd, coming from offices in Pasay, Pasig, Manila, Cavite, Caloocan, Antipolo and Bulacaan were the highest number with 69,418, second, is Iloilo with 22,682 enrollees, third, Dagupan with 19,499 enrollees, fourth, Batangas with 19,412 and fifth, Cebu with 19,194.

The eCard Plus is the official GSIS membership identification card of all its members and pensioners. Just like any other government-issued cards ID card, the GSIS eCard is widely accepted as proof of identification for whatever legal transactions.

The GSIS eCard also serves as an identification system for the GSIS Wireless Automated Processing System or G-W@PS.

Once the G-W@PS kiosk identifies the member through the eCard and his fingertips, the machine allows the member to check his payment records. Members can also apply for a loan using the G-W@PS kiosk.

In Iloilo City, there are two existing G-W@PS kiosk locations. These are in the GSIS Field Office in Iznart St. and DepEd Region 6 in Lapaz District.

The eCard can also be used by the members and the pensioners for their personal banking needs and hospitalization discount card as some of the biggest hospitals in the country provide 50 percent discount to members and pensioner’s bills.

source: Panay News (http://www.panaynewsphilippines.com/iloilo4.htm)

[spacewagon1]

Do you know your towns and cities?

MANY of us take for granted how and why our hometowns came about and where these were originally located.

You can satisfy your curiosity at the conference on “Philippine Towns & Cities: Reflections of the Past, Lessons for the Future.”

This is the second in the series of “Towns & Cities” conferences organized by the Heritage Conservation Society (HCS) in cooperation with Urban Partnerships Foundation (UPF), the Instituto Cervantes (IC) and the National Commission on Culture and the Arts (NCCA) are among the sponsors.

The 2007 “Towns & Cities” conference will be held in Iloilo City upon the invitation of the Iloilo City Government which is the official host.

Because of its spectacular heritage structures, Iloilo City is an excellent venue.

“Towns & Cities” will be held Nov. 9 at the Kalantiao Hall of Sarabia Manor Hotel. Registration will begin 8am. The conference is expected to adjourn 5 pm.

The “Mayors’ Forum” is a much-awaited feature of the conference. It is a stimulating exchange of “best practices” and conservation policies by mayors who have heritage resources in their towns and cities.

In the 2006 Forum, Mayors Ferdinand Medina (Vigan) and Oscar Rodriguez (San Fernando, Pampanga) explained how they approved city ordinances to balance modernization with heritage conservation.

Mayor Rex Bernardez of Bucay, Abra , a heritage “convert”, vowed to protect with proper legislation the ruins of a Spanish fort in Bucay.

This year’s forum will be very lively as the following mayors have already confirmed attendance: Jerry TreHas (Iloilo), Danilo Mindanao (San Juan, Batangas), Rosauro Masilang (Sariaya, Quezon), Jose Montelibano (Silay), Oscar Tetangco, Jr. (Apalit), Canuto Oreta (Malabon) and Celso Lobregat (Zamboanga)

Seven case studies will be presented by Engr. Jose PeHalosa (Iloilo); Profs. Floro Quibuyen (Apalit), Icelle Estrada (Zamboanga), Victoria de Villa (Sariaya) and Jaime Veneracion (19th Century Estates); and Archs. Leon Mayo (San Juan), N. von Einsiedel (Silay) and Richard Bautista (Malabon and Navotas),

For more information about seminar fees, please call Dorie Soriano (HCS) 521 2239; telefax 522 24 97; email: info@heritage.org.phThis e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it , Len DiHo (UPF) tel 895 1812/ 896 1902, email: annalynn.upf@gmail.comThis e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it or Vivian Taparo (Iloilo Tourism Office) 033 3372172, email: benitojimena@yahoo.com.This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

“Philippine Towns & Cities” seminar series is a communications campaign to influence policy makers at the local government level.

Other stakeholders in the executive branch, the private sector and the academe are invited because heritage conservation is a multi-disciplinary concern.

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

[spacewagon1]

WV entry wins poster tilt
By James Earl E. Ogatis

WESTERN Visayas entry to the nationwide on-the-spot poster making contest was cited by the Department of Agriculture (DA) and Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) as the best poster for Visayas during the celebration of the World Food Day 2007 Oct. 9.

The winning entry is a creation of Maphete Dianne M. Lustre, a grade 6 pupil of the West Visayas State University Elementary Laboratory School.

Lustre’s poster centered on the theme “The Right to Food” sending a message that each individual has the right to eat at least three times a day.

Other national winners are Sheena Faith F. Carreon (Region I) and Ronnel S. Lacas (Region III) for Luzon; Soon Yi Wednesday B. Jurado (Region X) and Brian Jones C. Brazil (Region XI) for Mindanao.

The five national winners received P10,000 cash prize and trophy while their respective schools received a plaque from the FAO.

Non-winning regional posters won P2,000 cash prize and trophy. A certificate of appreciation was awarded to the non-winning schools.

Secretary Arthur C. Yap, FAO representative to the Philippines Kazsuyuki Tsunumi and Department of Education Secretary Jesli Lapus awarded the winners last Oct. 15.

Director Larry P. Nacionales of DA-6 congratulated Lustre for winning the contest saying that young generations need to know and internalize the importance and role of agriculture to the existence of humans.

He stressed that these activities should be given priority in order to hone and recognize talents and skills of gifted pupils.

The on-the-spot poster making contest is conducted yearly by the DA and DepEd, FAO and NAFC and participated by elementary pupils enrolled in public and DepEd accredited private elementary schools nationwide. (JEEO/RAFID6)

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

[spacewagon1]

^^^^ i hope they'll create another festival to highlights the province's festivals. They can coined other name. They can just leave Kasadyahan the way it s right now.

[COLLIN JASPER]

good news! greetings from taipei taiwan! bernie call upon arrival L.A.

[habagatcentral1]

Do you know your towns and cities?


MANY of us take for granted how and why our hometowns came about and where these were originally located.

You can satisfy your curiosity at the conference on “Philippine Towns & Cities: Reflections of the Past, Lessons for the Future.”

This is the second in the series of “Towns & Cities” conferences organized by the Heritage Conservation Society (HCS) in cooperation with Urban Partnerships Foundation (UPF), the Instituto Cervantes (IC) and the National Commission on Culture and the Arts (NCCA) are among the sponsors.


^^ Attention HCS Iloilo Youth (Pacific, Chy & IAMME), we hope to have a EB/meeting next week as we have to lay out the plans. You know what I mean, wahehehehe!! ;)

Anyway, there is a new road *ata* that is being constructed beside MO2 Annex that would link Smallville-Riverside Boardwalk to Barangay San Rafael and the Tabucan Road.

@Collin. Ikaw panawag sa akon. Way ko kabalo kon ara ka na sa LAX.

@Toto Kianshi. Nalipatan mo bala mag-logout sa Acclaim CPU, wahehehe!! :D

[iloilocitykid]

^^ Great. A new road and new roads always mean new establishments to be placed in the area.

[habagatcentral1]

^^ The bad news though, what about the old roads? Lopez-Jaena St and the Diversion Road needs renovation or repair. Daw ara ka sa bulan sa kadamu sang potholes.

[iloilocitykid]

^^ Yep. I was thinking that Mr. JPT passes thru that area everyday but why doesn't he do a thing.

[spacewagon1]

^^ Great. A new road and new roads always mean new establishments to be placed in the area.
roads will pave way for new economic districts. we need to upgrade our roads and hopefully open more to give better accessibility in roaming around metro iloilo.

[spacewagon1]

Dinagyang gets more
invitations to perform

ILOILO City -- The Dinagyang Festival continues to receive more invitations to perform both in domestic and foreign locales.

City tourism Benito Jimena said these invitations were the result of the all-out promotion the Iloilo Dinagyang Foundation, Incorporated (IDFI) has conducted during the last five years. The promotional efforts also resulted in garnering the Association of Tourism Officers in the Philippines’ highest award for two consecutive years running.

Jimena said that invitations for performances next year and for the last three months of the year are pouring in. Even the Discovery Shores in Boracay he added, has written Mayor Jerry P. Treñas requesting for a Dinagyang tribe to perform during the opening of the Cornell Hotel Society Asia Pacific Regional Meeting on November 3.

There is also an invitation for Jimena to be one of the judges in the Pintaflores Festival in San Carlos City, Negros Occidental on November 3rd-5th. The GMA News and Public Affairs has also sent their invitation to Jimena and to the Miss Dinagyang 2007 to grace one of their newly-launched shows.

“We are now reaping the rewards of our constant promotional efforts and our exposure to other places is a sure way of making noise for the city of Iloilo,” Jimena further said.

For the first quarter this year alone, Dinagyang has already performed in Santiago City, Isabela for the Pataraday Festival and at the Aliwan Fiesta in Metro Manila last April 28.

The contingent also went to Minneapolis and San Antonio, Texas in the United States last June to perform for the Filipino community in there.

Meanwhile, Treñas is grateful to the IDFI for the success that the festival has achieved. “It is because of the IDFI’s commitment that Dinagyang is generating all these interest and attention. I certainly look forward to a grander, more colorful edition of the festival this coming January,” the mayor added.

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

[spacewagon1]

Summit series on SMEs held

ILOILO City – A provincial summit series seeking to harmonize the development plan of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Western Visayas to that of the National SME plan was held here.

The harmonization plan is the first of the two components of the Small and Medium Enterprise Development for Sustainable Employment Program (SMEDSEP) which is being supported by the German Technical Cooperation (GTZ) in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI).

DTI Regional Director Dominic Abad said a lot of initiatives have been introduced in the national level and it is high time those efforts will be harmonized with the existing local SME plans.

Among the areas covered by the development plan are the business and investment enabling environment, access to finance, access to market and productivity and efficiency.

"With our Provincial SMED Plans already aligned with the National Plan, we expect a more focused delivery of services for our SMEs which constitute 99.7 percent of the total registered business in the country," he said.

Tuesday's summit was attended by local government units, business groups, heads of line government agencies and other stakeholders.

source: Panay News (http://www.panaynewsphilippines.com/guimaras2.htm)

[spacewagon1]

Spanish organization to help boost RP's tourism industry
By Maricar M. Calubiran

With the fast growing opportunities, the Fundacion Santiago will now focus its program in the promotion of the tourism industry. Helping Small and Medium Enterprises used to be the priority of the foundation.

Señor Chaco Molina, Executive Director of Fundacion Santiago, explained that there is a promising future in the tourism industry especially in the promotion of heritage preservation. Currently, they are pushing for the Pamana and Pag-Asa program. Pamana is a cultural heritage program while Pag Asa is a social development program.

The Pamana program involves the use of all feasible means to make historical and cultural data readily available for close study and reflection. In the same program, they want access to written repositories of the Filipino culture and history for study.

In the Pagasa program, the foundation has designed a strategy dubbed as Sustainable Integrated Area Development (SIAD) approach.The target poverty groups are specified communities. They help set up social enterprise.

In Iloilo City, the foundation has already extended help to different SMEs by conceptualizing the labeling and packaging of food products. The foundation supports lot of projects ranging from assisting cooperatives to sponsoring workshops.

Nevertheless, the foundation will not totally abandon the SMEs as food products produced in one cultural heritage site will still be incorporated in the promotion.

Molina along with Ms. Rocio Moreno, information officer of the Diputacion de Cadiz (provincial government of Cadiz in Spain) are in Iloilo City to promote the Filipinas Ahora Mismo, a radio magazine program aired in government-owned station Radyo ng Bayan, dyLL.

Filipinas, Ahora Mismo is the only radio magazine that showcases Filipino culture. It is an upbeat radio program with regular segments on De Pelicula (movies) Vamos a Leer (literature), Ventana al Pasado en Camino de Cadiz (Phil-Hispanic History), De Isla en Isla (geography), El Fogon de Maria (cuisine), Su Salud (health), Mundo Mujer (women issues), Aprenda Español (Spanish Language), Deportes (sports), Sabias Que? (trivia) and Dichos y Refranes (folk wisdom) sprinkled with the best current and timeless music in Spanish.

source: The News Today (http://www.thenewstoday.info/2007/10/17/spanish.organization.to.help.boost.rps.tourism.industry.html)

Radio program promotes
Filipino-Hispanic culture

ILOILO City -- The Asociacion de la Prensa de Cadiz (Press Association of the Province of Cadiz) in Spain and the Bureau of Broadcast Services teamed-up to produce a radio program that promotes Filipino and Spanish culture over the airwaves to the Filipino audience.

Broadcast over five provincial radio stations of BBS’ Radyo ng Bayan in Quezon City, Laoag, Naga, Iloilo, and Zamboanga, the Radyo Manila Project is a joint effort to promote better understanding between the citizens of the two countries.

Titled “Filipinas Ahora Mismo” (Pilipinas, Ora Mismo), the radio program under the project is the only cultural magazine show on Filipino culture produced by Filipinos and for Filipinos that is aired in Spanish.

It has regular segments about movies, literature, Phil-Hispanic history, geography, cuisine, women issues, health, Spanish language, sports, trivia and folk wisdom.

Fundacion Santiago executive director Chaco G.A. Molina, one of the supporters of the project said they wanted to collaborate with Filipino media to update the quality of radio programs.

“In Spain, we value public media and consider it very important. It is not actually owned by the government. Society owns it,” he said.

Promoting the Spanish language among media practitioners and students of mass communication in the Philippines, giving training opportunities for upcoming and established Filipino journalists, and upgrading the broadcast capabilities of its partners in the Philippines were also the main intent for creating the radio program.

Molina, together with Cadiz provincial government Information Officer Rocio Moreno, promoted “Filipinas Ahora Mismo” to the Ilonggo audience by visiting the city Tuesday and met with Iloilo city mayor Jerry Treñas, and the local partners in the media and academe.

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

[spacewagon1]

^^ keep tourism in Iloilo growing ! I'm glad we have international partners helping us develop our tourism potentials. With MIGEDC's partners + US + Spain. Well done ! :banana::banana::banana:

[spacewagon1]

Iloilo to host meeting of heritage cities

ILOILO CITY: Representatives from the country’s heritage cities, private sector, nongovernment organizations and academe will gather in Iloilo City on November 9 for a Heritage Cities Conference facilitated by the National Heritage Council (NHC).

Mayor Jerry P. Treñas of Iloilo City said he received a letter from Gemma Cruz-Araneta of the NHC urging the city to co-host the event together with the Department of Tourism (DOT).

The conference aims to “enhance the participants’ understanding of heritage” and at the same time give them opportunity to appreciate the various heritage sites in Iloilo, situated mostly at the Calle Real or the central business district.

“It’s very rare that you can find a city with heritage buildings. It’s really a jewel and we hope that by understanding and appreciation of this heritage, rich culture and heritage here will be preserved,” he said.

Treñas was informed that the mayors of Vigan City in Ilocos Sur and Silay City in Negros Occidental, also known for their heritage sites, have signified their intention to participate in the conference.
--PNA

source: Manila Times (http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/oct/18/yehey/prov/20071018pro5.html)

[IMPRESARIO]

^^hope we can reinstate the spanish language, tani may instituto de Cervantes man sa ciudad.

[BYAHILO]

Iloilo to host meeting of heritage cities


ILOILO CITY: Representatives from the country’s heritage cities, private sector, nongovernment organizations and academe will gather in Iloilo City on November 9 for a Heritage Cities Conference facilitated by the National Heritage Council (NHC).

Mayor Jerry P. Treñas of Iloilo City said he received a letter from Gemma Cruz-Araneta of the NHC urging the city to co-host the event together with the Department of Tourism (DOT).

The conference aims to “enhance the participants’ understanding of heritage” and at the same time give them opportunity to appreciate the various heritage sites in Iloilo, situated mostly at the Calle Real or the central business district.

“It’s very rare that you can find a city with heritage buildings. It’s really a jewel and we hope that by understanding and appreciation of this heritage, rich culture and heritage here will be preserved,” he said.

Treñas was informed that the mayors of Vigan City in Ilocos Sur and Silay City in Negros Occidental, also known for their heritage sites, have signified their intention to participate in the conference.
--PNA

source: Manila Times (http://www.manilatimes.net/national/2007/oct/18/yehey/prov/20071018pro5.html)


im supposed to go to this coference. i was sent an invite by ivan henares. pero alanganin ako kay sa 16 mapa bcd man ako doble na gasto ko sa eroplano

[habagatcentral1]

roads will pave way for new economic districts. we need to upgrade our roads and hopefully open more to give better accessibility in roaming around metro iloilo.

But speaking of roads, the once "Hasinda Pison" or now known as the future site of Iloilo's new CBD, has new roads that will be the alternative routes to Molo and Mandurriao. And the good news is, its concrete and not the Philippine-quality asphalt that they've been paving Jaro's streets.

They should've considered that Iloilo receives torrential rains due to its westerly location which is the frontline of habagat.

For the Carpenter's Bridge though, its only 2 lanes but the construction is ongoing nontheless.

Also, regarding that controversial flyover at Stoplight Infante, I think there were activities going on with the construction of th flyover approach in the John B side of the said infra.

@Eric. Kon libehon ta ka sang plete, kadto ka di? hehehehe!!!

[Farirah]

News here : http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Nation&p=49&type=2&sec=28&aid=2007101797

[ysis]

4th National Organic Farming Congress opens in Iloilo

ILOILO CITY, Oct. 18 (PNA) – More or less 400 participants nationwide gathered at the Sarabia Manor Hotel here for the 4th National Organic Farming Congress which kicked off Wednesday.

The two-day activity is one venue where farming enthusiasts “promote and exchange knowledge, technologies and practices in organic farming," according to Department of Agriculture Regional Agriculture and Fishery Info Division OIC-chief Jovy Gatun.

She added it is also very timely that the organizer chose Western Visayas as this year’s host because the region is known as a major producer of the organic "muscovado" sugar, "darag" or native chicken, organic ‘cassava and banana chips and other organic products.

Source: http://www.positivenewsmedia.net/am2/publish/Events_26/4th_National_Organic_Farming_Congress_opens_in_Iloilo.shtml

Among the topics lined up for the two-day congress with the theme “Converging Thrusts for the Organic Industry Development in the Philippines” are organic agriculture in the Philippines, the growing global demand for organic food, organic trade of the Philippines, and enabling regulatory mechanisms for organic agriculture.

Likewise, the participants will get to learn about organic certification and maintaining an organic farm, winning platform for rural development and internal control system.
The gathering is hosted by the Bureau of Agriculture and Fishery Product Standards of the Department of Agriculture (DA-BAFPS) in cooperation with the Western Visayas Agriculture and Resources Research and Development Consortium. (PNA)

[ysis]

Iloilo’s SME Dev’t Plan to attract 1, 500 new SME’s by 2010

ILOILO CITY, Oct 18 (PNA) –- The creation of the Iloilo Provincial Small and Medium Enterprise Development Plan (SMED Plan) is expected to attract more budding entrepreneurs, with 1, 500 new establishments expected to be established both in the city and province of Iloilo by 2010 starting this year.

Trade and Industry provincial director Diosdado Cadena said the projection will serve as Iloilo’s contribution to the national target of around 700,000 small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to be established in 2010.

“These are new SMEs which are either new business or products of expansion. This figure is very doable,” he said.

He further explained that the figure represents the SMEs that can be serviced by more than 15 other line government agencies that helped conceptualized the SMED Plan.

Every year more or less 3, 000 new business names are being registered with DTI - Iloilo.

However, Cadena explained that the 1, 500 new SMEs are different because they not only avail of name registration but other services under the SMED Plan such as market information, availment of the right technology fitted for their business and improvements of operation.
The SMED Plan was conceptualized with the technical support provided by the German Technical Cooperation (GTZ) under the Small and Medium Enterprises for Sustainable Employment Program (SMEDSEP).(PNA)

Source:http://www.positivenewsmedia.net/am2/publish/Business_19/Iloilo_s_SME_Dev_t_Plan_to_attract_1_500_new_SME_s_by_2010.shtml

[COLLIN JASPER]

good news again for iloilo
@bernie: nasa houston na ako. siguro mga 2 days pa ako dire sa hotel, along pasadena

[habagatcentral1]

Substantive events in Iloilo and elsewhere
THE SOUTHERN BEAT By Rolly Espina
Thursday, October 18, 2007

....
Iloilo Business Park

The most important development in Iloilo City was the planned emergence of a business park at the old Mandurriao Airport which the Megaworld Corp. had won in a public bidding for P1.2 billion.

Megaworld, one of the fastest growing companies, won the bidding for the 54-hectare property of the national government.

My attention was caught by the statement of Kingson Sian, Megaworld’s executive director and senior vice president, that they would transform the old airport into a vibrant, economic catalyst for the province through the Iloilo Business Park.

And he made a PowerPoint presentation of the plan for the Iloilo Business Park, which will include an outsourcing office, middle-income housing units, a convention center, a hotel, skills training center, and recreational facilities, among others.

The plan will reportedly involve some P1.5 billion in investments.

While Bacolod City recently enjoyed the entry of SM Mall in the reclamation area, it seems that the development of the surrounding areas has virtually halted with the city officials focused more on taking over the operation of the Bredco Port instead of helping assure the infrastructure development which SM reportedly had been asking for such as improved roads and sewerage.

As a matter of fact, the most astounding development is that it is Bredco, with its visionary chairman Sammy Palanca, which has put up a private hospital in the area that could stimulate the growth of Bredco into a city within a city.

In the case of Iloilo, even Finance Secretary Margarito Teves pointed out that the sale of the old airport and its billion-peso development plan will attract investors and tourists. It will also bring added work opportunities to many Ilonggos, he added.

Illegal settlers at the old airport are expected to be relocated to a better site.

Floods

But for Iloilo to continue on its path to sustainable development, it really needs to have a flood control project. Unfortunately, this program has suffered some delay due to the exhorbitant demands of landowners.

According to Vice Gov. Rolex Suplico, former opposition congressman and recently in the spotlight for filing a case with the Supreme Court seeking a halt to the controversial ZTE national broadband network project, the main owner of the lands needed for the flood control project is demanding a sum more than the total national counterpart. This, of course, is unacceptable to Japan, the country helping underwrite the project. Understandable, as approval of the outrageous demand would open our officials to possible criminal charges.

The main landowner, of course, is no other than tycoon William Gatchalian. While the titles may be in the names of some companies, these are firms where the Gatchalian family has control.

Suplico is mad because the delay means regular floods for Iloilo City and its environs. Knowing the feisty character of the former congressman, Ilonggos are waiting for fireworks to start. Indeed, everyone knows that many very crucial infrastructure projects are often delayed because of right-of-way issues. When the affected individuals and families are poor, with little options available, reluctance is understandable. In the case of Gatchalian, however, something else seems to be at work. More on this controversy in subsequent columns.

Source: Philippine Star (http://www.philstar.com/index.php?Nation&p=49&type=2&sec=28&aid=2007101797)

[iloilocitykid]

So many seminars and meetings happening in the city right now. I also noticed traffic has reduced tremendously thanks to the rerouting. Bravo to Antiquera!

[shyaman]

Hey @alimol, rapit ka don mauli no? Don't forget to take pictures tapos post mo dya. Tapos mag-EB kamo dyan ka mga libayon ta nga mga forumers. :D

[alimol]

hey, colin. so sa america ka na gali subong? wala kamo di ya ga hapit sa UK?

[alimol]

hey shy...hidlaw man ta nimo ba...

yes, I'll be home next week na ya pero monday 6 am pa ko maabot sa Iloilo...daw ma kiss gid ko sa salog kang bag-o ta nga airport ah...

nami daad mag EB man kang mga libayon ta dya nga mga forumers...para sadya kuhaanay pictures...may SLR nga daan nga camera dya...

ga plano ko gani mag trip sa mga chuches naton kag sa mga landmarks dyan sa iloilo to take pictures...

Hey @alimol, rapit ka don mauli no? Don't forget to take pictures tapos post mo dya. Tapos mag-EB kamo dyan ka mga libayon ta nga mga forumers. :D

[COLLIN JASPER]

hey, colin. so sa america ka na gali subong? wala kamo di ya ga hapit sa UK?
yup. sa europe, amsterdam, rotterdam at antwerp lang kami. Tani eh para maka pasyal man ko dyan sa friend ko sa New Castle.