Northern Samar Province

[ijun]

UNANG PASABOG NG MAGANDANG BALITA!

$214-M road project to be implemented in Samar Is.

CATBALOGAN, Samar - Some $214.44-million, or nearly P10 billion, compact grant from the Millennium Challenge Account (MCA) will be used to fund the Secondary National Roads Development Project (SNRDP) in Samar Island, according to a Catholic priest who sits as one of the members of the MCA-Philippines Board of Trustees (BOT).

Rev. Fr. Cesar D. Aculan, director of the Social Action Center (SAC) of the Diocese of Calbayog, said the amount is part of the $434-million compact program for the Philippines for fiscal year 2010-2014 as approved by the Millennium Challenge Corp. (MCC) Board of Directors last August 5, 2010 in the United States.

"The scope of the MCC funding is the reconstruction and major rehabilitation of 180-kilometer roads from Barangay Buray, Paranas, Samar to Taft, Eastern Samar. Minor rehabilitation of 40-kilometer roads will also be implemented," Fr. Aculan said, adding that the project will be implemented before the year ends.

Fr. Aculan said the amount will also be used to fund for the repair of 42 bridges and replacement of 17 bridges along the Buray-Taft road section.

"The Samar road activity aims to save travel time from Borongan, Eastern Samar to the Buray intersection. It will also lower vehicle operating costs," Fr. Aculan told Leyte Samar Daily Express.

Aside from the SNRDP, the compact grant will also fund the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS) with an estimated cost of $120 million and the Revenue Administration Reform Project (RARP) at $54.3 million. Program monitoring and oversight and monitoring and evaluation will cost $45.17 million.

"Eastern Visayas, particularly the provinces of Samar, Leyte and Biliran will also be included in the KALAHI-CIDSS project that would grant for livelihood activities and the construction, repair and improvement and upgrading of small-scale rural infrastructure sub-projects identified by the community," Fr. Aculan said.

He added that the project is similar to the World Bank-funded anti-poverty program and would be implemented over a four-year period, including one year of social preparation training for communities among 60 eligible municipalities in the region.

Meanwhile, Fr. Aculan hopes the compact projects would start its implementation after the composition of the MCA-Philippines would be finalized before yearend.

"The MCA Philippines will serve as the designated accountable entity or central point of contract for the projects to be financed under the countrys compact. It will also serve as the single point of contact on behalf of the Philippine government during the implementation of the program for MCC, other donors, contractors and consultants as well as the general citizenry," Fr. Aculan said.

It was learned that the Philippines has received threshold assistance of some $21 million since 2006. Having shown above-median performance in fighting corruption and on at least half of the indicators in three policy categories: ruling justly, investing in people and economic freedom, the Philippines was named eligible for compact assistance for poverty reduction and economic growth.

By REYAN ARINTO
Correspondent

[grunge_2009]

Originally Posted by ijun

UNANG PASABOG NA MAGANDANG BALITA!

$214-M road project to be implemented in Samar Is.

CATBALOGAN, Samar - Some $214.44-million, or nearly P10 billion, compact grant from the Millennium Challenge Account (MCA) will be used to fund the Secondary National Roads Development Project (SNRDP) in Samar Island, according to a Catholic priest who sits as one of the members of the MCA-Philippines Board of Trustees (BOT).
Rev. Fr. Cesar D. Aculan, director of the Social Action Center (SAC) of the Diocese of Calbayog, said the amount is part of the $434-million compact program for the Philippines for fiscal year 2010-2014 as approved by the Millennium Challenge Corp. (MCC) Board of Directors last August 5, 2010 in the United States.
"The scope of the MCC funding is the reconstruction and major rehabilitation of 180-kilometer roads from Barangay Buray, Paranas, Samar to Taft, Eastern Samar. Minor rehabilitation of 40-kilometer roads will also be implemented," Fr. Aculan said, adding that the project will be implemented before the year ends.

Fr. Aculan said the amount will also be used to fund for the repair of 42 bridges and replacement of 17 bridges along the Buray-Taft road section.

"The Samar road activity aims to save travel time from Borongan, Eastern Samar to the Buray intersection. It will also lower vehicle operating costs," Fr. Aculan told Leyte Samar Daily Express.

Aside from the SNRDP, the compact grant will also fund the Kapit-Bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS) with an estimated cost of $120 million and the Revenue Administration Reform Project (RARP) at $54.3 million. Program monitoring and oversight and monitoring and evaluation will cost $45.17 million.

"Eastern Visayas, particularly the provinces of Samar, Leyte and Biliran will also be included in the KALAHI-CIDSS project that would grant for livelihood activities and the construction, repair and improvement and upgrading of small-scale rural infrastructure sub-projects identified by the community," Fr. Aculan said.

He added that the project is similar to the World Bank-funded anti-poverty program and would be implemented over a four-year period, including one year of social preparation training for communities among 60 eligible municipalities in the region.

Meanwhile, Fr. Aculan hopes the compact projects would start its implementation after the composition of the MCA-Philippines would be finalized before yearend.

"The MCA Philippines will serve as the designated accountable entity or central point of contract for the projects to be financed under the countrys compact. It will also serve as the single point of contact on behalf of the Philippine government during the implementation of the program for MCC, other donors, contractors and consultants as well as the general citizenry," Fr. Aculan said.

It was learned that the Philippines has received threshold assistance of some $21 million since 2006. Having shown above-median performance in fighting corruption and on at least half of the indicators in three policy categories: ruling justly, investing in people and economic freedom, the Philippines was named eligible for compact assistance for poverty reduction and economic growth.

By REYAN ARINTO
Correspondent

thanks for the update @ijun..

an Kalahi-CIDSS nagstart han iya implementation han project way back 2003 , with its pilot municipality ha Sulat, Eastern Samar as phase 1,,then Phase 2, with additional municipality ha Eastern Samar and Samar Province ..Phase 3 and 4 commencing all provinces of Eastern Visayas except Southern Leyte..

Kalahi-CIDSS II will probably start this year or maybe 1st quarter of next year and this will be a much bigger project than the previous one..

[mao rong]

congrats!!!...

[pthfndr19]

CONGRATULATIONS! New thread na hehehe

[catar city]

THREAD 6 NA PA LA CONGRATS TO ALL!

[calbayognon]

Monday, September 13, 2010

Gaisano is coming to town

It's official, Gaisano is set to build a mall in Calbayog. The City Mayor said this during a presscon earlier today. Negotiations are still ongoing though. On top of the things to do would be the completion of the Market and Bus Terminal Complex in Barangay Bagacay and the transfer of the present stall holders at the old Public market.

(source: www.calbayogevents.blogspot.com by Ronald Ricafort [Secretary of the Mayor and Asst. City Tourism and Information Officer])

[ormocanon]

Good. What's the timetable for the completion of the new terminal and transfer of the stallholders?

[ijun]

that's a great news!

Go! Calbayog! Go!

[ijun]

DoT pushes restoration of historical sites in EV

TACLOBAN CITY - The Department of Tourism regional office here has listed cultural, historical and heritage sites in Eastern Visayas that badly need funding support to preserve its value.

Tourism regional director Karina Rosa S. Tiopes expressed concern over deteriorating conditions of these sites, which have been not prioritized for maintenance and development.

"We were asked by our central office to come up with priority list of historical and heritage sites so that when there are financial assistance available, we can immediately present the list," Tiopes told Leyte Samar Daily Express.

The official said that the major requirements for the sites in the priority list are rehabilitation and physical improvement.

"The curiosity of visitors are there but their experience during the tour in these significant places is not pleasant," she added.

First in the list is the Sto. Shrine in this city, which houses priceless art objects mostly owned by the Marcos family. It was observed that the property has not been highly maintained after the take over by the Presidential Commission on Good Government.

The tourism regional chief explained that the physical conditions of 11 World War II engagement sites and Japanese memorial shrines located in different towns of Leyte are now worsening despite interests of Japanese to tour the place.

"There is also a need to train local guides who can tell the story of the bravery of soldiers and civilians who fought during the war," the proposal stated.

Another site is the Capul Church and Capul Lighthouse in Capul, Northern Samar. The island town was part of the route of the Acapulco Trade being the first entry point for ships plying the route where sailors could purchase food and precious water and repairs to their ships.

The towns church still houses Spanish cannon and fort, which serves as islanders place of refuge during the Moro raids.

"The lighthouse, which needs restoration, is significant in tourism because from there, one can get a breathtaking view of San Bernardino as well as wide panoramic, unsullied white beaches," the proposal explained.

The famous Balangiga Encounter Site in Balangiga, Eastern Samar also needs some improvement especially of their public park where the mural is located. In 1901, Filipino patriots of the town made a surprise attack on American soldiers.

Also in the list is the Malitbog Church , Escaño Ancestral Home, and Escaño Mausoleum in Malitbog, Southern Leyte . The Church, which is one of few remaining Spanish old stone churches in Region 8, showcases the architecture of 1900s.

The Escaño Ancestral Home in Malitbog was constructed in the late 19th century following the colonial type of structure. It used to house 300 clan members during special occasions.

Tourism stakeholders also listed the 17th century Basey Church in Basey, Samar . It was the venue of public gatherings and stage plays during the Japanese occupation. The Buscada Graveyard Chapel of the town was also built circa 17th century. It is the only existing Graveyard Church following the tradition of European churches.

"Developing the site is significant because it is the jump off point to other significant tourism sites in the town like the Sohoton and Rawis Caves ," Tiopes said.

The tourism official lamented that there has been no major development projects implemented in those sites because of its historical and cultural value, which can draw tourists. (Sarwell Q. Meniano)

[Linguine]

More roads for Samar

CATBALOGAN, SAMAR -- A $214.44-million grant from the Millennium Challenge Account will be used to fund the Secondary National Roads Development Project in Samar, Fr. Cesar D. Aculan, a member of the MCA-Philippines Board of Trustees, told journalists here.

He said the amount is part of the $434-million compact program for the Philippines for fiscal year 2010-2014 approved by the US-based Millennium Challenge Corp. board of directors last month. The project involves reconstruction of 180 kilometers of roads from Barangay Buray, Paranas, Samar to Taft, Eastern Samar, rehabilitation of 40 kilometers of roads, as well as repair of 42 bridges and replacement of 17 bridges along the Buray-Taft road.

http://www.bworldonline.com/main/content.php?id=17753

[calbayognon]

Originally Posted by ormocanon

Good. What's the timetable for the completion of the new terminal and transfer of the stallholders?

I think the target date of completion for the two projects is last quarter of this year. So probably. Gaisano will start construction on the first quarter of next year. According to my source the construction period for the mall will be approximately eight months.

Notices to vacate were already sent to the stallholders.

[[earthling]]

Calicoan Island is envisioned to become the surfing capital and a top tourist destination in the Philippines. This island is situated in Guiuan, Eastern Samar, located at the southernmost tip of the third largest island (Samar) in the Philippines archipelago. It is where Calicoan Island lays, also known as the “Surfer’s Paradise”. With its rugged landscape, tropical forest, wonderful lagoons, breathtaking white beaches, crystal clear water, and magnificent sunlight, Calicoan is a must see for nature lover, adventurous travelers, deep-sea fisherman, and intrepid surfer.
Getting There
Calicoan island is readily accessible by land, sea and air. Chartered flights can land in Guiuan’s airport, a 5-minute drive from Calicoan. The nearby regional capital of Tacloban City is two to three hours away. Several buses and vans on regular schedules shuttle passengers to Guiuan via a scenic two-lane coastal highway which runs past mountains, steep cliff, distant rock islands and boat-filled bays. Tacloban is regularly serviced by scheduled flights from Manila. Alternatively, several bus companies have daily trips to Guiuan from Manila. Travel time is approximately twenty-one hours.
Location
Bounded by The Pacific Ocean on the east and Leyte Gulf on the west, this 1,600 hectare island is considered the Jewel of the Pacific coast. Miles of white sand beaches, dramatic coralline landscapes, cathedral caves, and powerful surfing waves characterize the Pacific side of Calicoan, while the Leyte Gulf side features calm and clear water ideal for swimming and watersports. There are 6 saltwater lagoons ringed by forest along the interior of Calicoan. Half of the island is covered by lush tropical forest containing exotic species of flora and fauna, such as rare birds, civet cats, and curious Macaque monkeys. The forest has been declared a protected area by the Department of Energy and Natural Resources.

The surrounding waters are some of the most abundant in natural resources anywhere. Big gamefish such as tuna, marlin, swordfish and mahi-mahi are caught regularly in the waters between Calicoan and Sulu-an island. Large mangrove crabs can be found on the island’s northern tip. Lobsters are known to be caught off the waters of Ngolos Beach, right in front of the Ocean Villas!
In the calmer waters of the Leyte Gulf, sea cucumbers, sea grapes, and tropical reef fish abound. A pearl and giant clam farm is nearby.
History
In 1521, the Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan first made landfall in nearby Homonhon island when he discovered the Philippines for Spain. The island’s strategic location and bountiful resources made it a major staging area for American forces during the second world war.
Close to 100,000 U.S servicement were assigned in Calicoan and its surrounding areas. In October 1944, hundreds of U.S and Japanese warships clashed off the shores of Calicoan in what became known as the Battle of Leyte Gulf, the largest naval engagement in world history.

Geography

The municipality of Guiuan is located at the southernmost tip of Samar Island. It is bounded on the north by the municipality of Mercedes, on the east by the Pacific Ocean, on the south by the Surigao Strait, on the west by the Leyte Gulf. Clustered around the municipality are numerous islands and islet, like Tibabao, Calicoan, Sulangan, Homonhon and Suluan.

Guiuan is 109 kilometers south of Borongan and 154 kilometers from Tacloban. It has a total land area of 175.49 square kilometers. It is composed of sixty (60) barangays and the only town in the province with the biggest number of island barangays.

Demography
Guiuan recorded a total population of 38,694 in 2000, the second largest population in Eastern Samar with the highest population density of 220 persons per sq. km. among the twenty-three (23) municipalities. Majority or 97.7% of the Guiuananons speak the “waray” dialect. Less than 3% speak Cebuano, Tagalog, Boholano. A large percentage though can converse in the English language.

Socio-economic Activities
Being a fishing community and the only municipality with the most number of island barangays, the town is rich in fishery and aquatic resources. It is considered by the fisheries authority as the best fishing belt in the region. The coastal waters offer almost all species of marine life: euchuema, abalone, ornamental fish, lobster and the Golden Cowry (known for its extraordinary golden sheen). They also offer delicacies, shell craft products as well as fresh processed marine products.
Existing land use indicated a predominance of agriculture use which covers 38.2% of the total land area. Most of the agricultural land are dominantly planted with coconut trees.
Other major crops include vegetables, root crops, palay, corn, banana, and other fruit trees, coffee and pineapple.
The municipality is likewise rich in miniral resources. It has an estimated mineral reserve of bauxite, nickel and titaferous magnitie of more that 26.7 million metric tons.


Facilities
Guiuan’s airport has a 2.8 km runway which could service light private planes, chartered cargo and military planes.
It also has a municipal and national seaport throughout the year.
Telephone companies operating in the municipalities include TELECOM, Globelines and Bayantel. Smart and Globe cellular phone companies are also operational.
In 2004, Eastern Samar Electric Cooperative (ESAMELCO) was able to energize Guiuan, Calicoan Island up to Sulangan covering 37 out of 60 barangays. Island barangays are served with electricity through generator sets either privately-owned or operated by the barangay council.

Adventure Spots
Calicoan Island boast of miles of white sand beaches. With powerful swells rolling in from the Pacific over the 10,000 meters Philippine Deep. Calicoan is a surfer’s paradise. The season for the best waves is generally from October to March.
In the middle of the island are six lagoons ringed by forest, the largest being 30 hectares in size. At the Cliffside margin of Calicoan’s forest are dozens of caves.
On the northern tip of Calicoan are wetlands like Everglades, teeming with fish, shrimps and crabs.
The rich diversity of the area is evident when one sees the exotic species being sold. The surrounding waters support several marine based industries such as fish, seaweeds and pearl farming.

source

www.calicoansurfcamp.com/

www.calicoanislandvillas.com

Originally Posted by technoblaze

The Calicoan Island, Eastern Samar

Calicoan Island is around 1,600 hectares which is bigger than Boracay only 1,024 hectares. And the Calicoan Island Ocean Villas is around 11 hectares South Pacific Inspired Exclusive Community and only 60% of it will be for sale and the 40% is for open spaces, vegetation and other future developments. All the villas will be nestled in white sand beach of the entire village overlooking the perpetual Pacific Ocean. And its surrounded by sprawling coconut trees which is long considered as “the tree of life”.
A Pacific Island Dream Come True…..


Calicoan Island is known as the “Surfing Capital of the Visayas” and envisioned to be a top tourist destination in the country. Far from the madding crowd with its hardy landscape, tropical forest, wonderful lagoons, breathtaking white beaches, crystal clear water and magnificent sunlight. Calicoan Island is a must-see for the nature lover, adventurous traveler, deep-sea fisherman, vacation enthusiast and intrepid surfer.
In Calicoan Island... You will…..Live The Island Dream...

A Comparison...
CALICOAN
TOTAL LAND AREA 1,600 hectares
NUMBER OF BEACHES 2 (1 facing Pacific Ocean and 1 facing Leyte Gulf)
SWIMMING available
DIVING available
SURFING available
FISHING available
YOGA ASHRAM available
CAVES / SPELUNKING available
JUNGLE TREKKING available
ROCK & WALL CLIMBING available
6 BEATIFUL LAGOONS available
VIRGINAL FOREST available
FRIENDLY WILDLIFE available
ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY available
LONG-TERM BUSINESS OPORTUNITY available

BORACAY
TOTAL LAND AREA 1,024 hectares
NUMBER OF BEACHES only 1
SWIMMING available
DIVING available
PART OF HISTORY LOCAL
SURFING none
FISHING none
YOGA ASHRAM none
CAVES / SPELUNKING none
JUNGLE TREKKING none
ROCK & WALL CLIMBING none
6 BEATIFUL LAGOONS none
VIRGINAL FOREST none
FRIENDLY WILDLIFE none
ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY none
LONG-TERM BUSINESS OPORTUNITY none

Calicoan Is. The next Boracay

Originally Posted by sandrn

Competition boosts Samar surfing paradise
http://globalnation.inq7.net/news/ne...ticle_id=27594
By Vicente Labro
Inquirer
Last updated 07:13pm (Mla time) 10/19/2006

CALICOAN ISLAND, Guiuan, Eastern Samar -- The holding of the 4th leg of the Philippine Surfing Championship Circuit has given a boost to the efforts of this island to promote itself as a surfing paradise.

Some 64 surfing enthusiasts from different parts of the country are vying for honors in surfing competition, which started on October 18 and will end on Saturday. The competition also brought in scores of local and foreign visitors.

The island, with its good waves and white-sand beaches, also served as the venue of last year's first surfing competition in Eastern Visayas, which was held through the initiative of the Philippine Surfing Federation (PSF).

"This is the second time that we are holding the competition here in Guiuan," said Zeny Pallugna, PSF secretary general and event organizer.

But Pallugna stressed that the ongoing event here is a locally organized one. The PSF just provided the technical staff and the judges and tabulators, and handled invitations to competitors.

Beyond helping the local government in staging the competition, the PSF is also promoting the island as a venue for international events.

The PSF, which is headed by Representative Prospero Pichay, has started talks with the Association of Surfing Professionals in Queensland, Australia regarding the possible holding of an international surfing competition in Calicoan Island, Pallugna said.

"I was tasked to take photos here (and) to make a report about Guiuan because we are recommending Guiuan to hold an international event in the near future," she added.

Calicoan is said to have two kinds of waves, the right-hander and the left-hander, meaning that surfers can move in to ride a wave either from the left or right side.

Joseph Olinduaso, the contest director, who has been surfing for 17 years now, said that the waves in Calicoan have their own character.

Even if the wave is already big, it is "still friendly to the surfers," he said. "They (surfers) can still make certain kinds of maneuvers that the judges are looking for in the competition," he added in Filipino.

According to Olindauso, the waves here are good for those who are already skilled surfers as well as for beginners, "unlike the waves of Siargao and Catanduanes that only those with a high level of skill could surf."

Among the contestants in the ongoing competition is Dodo Espejon, the winner of the 2005 surfing finals, who is poised to again show his skill in riding the waves.

The surfing competition in Calicoan Island last year lured a young boy into trying to ride the waves. Now, 13-year-old Dangie Lace, who hails from Sulangan, an islet next to Calicoan, is the first and only contestant from Guiuan.
Inquirer Visayas

Originally Posted by xXx carlos xXx

Domingo says Calicoan island soon to become “Boracay in the Pacific”
By: Reyan L. Arinto



TACLOBAN CITY – Presidential Assistant for eastern Visayas Victor Domingo said many businessmen have already expressed their interest in putting up investments in the island resort of Calicoan in Guiuan, Eastern Samar.

With the increasing number of potential investors, Domingo said Calicoan Island would soon become the “Boracay in the Pacific.”

“Tourists are coming in by the hundreds and thousands to Cebu, Bohol and Palawan. Some are leapfrogging to Ormoc City because of its golf course and many are coming to Calicoan Island because of surfing. Hopefully Calicoan will be the next Boracay in the Pacific,” Domingo told Leyte Samar Daily Express.

“Boracay people are coming to Calicoan and they like the place. I had a talk with them in Manila and they are interested in putting up resorts and hotels. These people are keen on offering their clients a three-in-one package where they can go to Palawan, Boracay and Calicoan. Calicoan is a sought-after island because of the Pacific waves ideal for surfing which Palawan and Boracay do no have,” Domingo said.

Domingo added that the local government of Guiuan is now readying things for the land financing and other improvements and development of the entire area.

Also, with the development of the Guiuan Airport, Domingo is hopeful that it will spur tourism activity in Calicoan Island.

“Unlike Boracay and some resorts in Palawan which are very far form the airport, Calicoan is only 20 minutes from the Guiuan Airport,” Domingo said.

It was learned that the national government has already earmarked some Php 25 million for the historic airport’s rehabilitation that will include the construction of a perimeter fence, terminal building and asphalt overlay of its 7, 000-feet runway.

Also, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has allotted Php 10 million for the initial rehabilitation of the airport, which used to be one of the major American airbases during World War II in the Pacific.

Next year, another Php 15 million will be shelled out by the national government for additional improvements of the airport.

Domingo, meanwhile, explained that the road development and installation of a water system in Calicoan Island would be shouldered by the local government unit in Guiuan.

In another development, the regional presidential assistant underscored the importance of continued tourism development in the region as a contributory factor to the national government’s visualization of a tourist haven Central Philippines super region.

“I’m sure that if they (tourists) discover the beautiful spots in Samar and Leyte hindi tayo matatalo. Sa dive spots we have undiscovered dive spots in the region which are hardly known to foreigners,” Domingo stressed.

Recently, the department of Tourism (DOT) has identified several dive spots in San Francisco, San Juan, Padre Burgos and Limasawa Island in Southern Leyte. Underwater terrains have also been identified in Marabut, Samar; Guiuan, Eastern Samar and Tabango and Tolosa in Leyte.

“People will ultimately get tired of Cebu, Bohol and other tourist destinations in Visayas. Somehow we can drum up our promotions of Eastern Visayas as an alternative tourist destination,” Domingo said.

Already, the local chief executives in Samar Island have grouped together to promote the island as one tourist destination using Calicoan as its entry point.

Calbayog City Mayor Mel Senen Sarmiento said the “one Samar, one island” is a tourism package that will package the entire island as one tourist destination.

Sarmiento added that the same strategy has been employed by Palawan, Bohol and Cebu where they package their islands as one tourist destination.

Guiuan’s secrets revealed
By Tina Arceo-Dumlao
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 00:34:00 08/23/2009

Filed Under: Travel & Commuting, Tourism, Economy and Business and Finance
THAT A top-class resort exists at all in the town of Guiuan at the southern tip of Eastern Samar causes many a raised eyebrow.
Guiuan, after all, is not exactly at the top of the list of favorite destinations of business and leisure travelers. The distinction still belongs to such cities as Baguio in the north, Cebu in the Visayas and Davao in Mindanao.
Lawyer Manuel Go of Cebu, however, firmly believes that it will only be a matter of time before the secrets of this quiet, laid back second class municipality are revealed and it gets its fair share of visitors.
This explains why he and some partners decided to invest in the multi-million The Surf Camp on Guian’s Calicoan Island, which is bounded on the east by the Pacific Ocean and Leyte Gulf on the west.
The Surf Camp on Calicoan’s ABCD Beach opened its large wooden doors to the public in 2006 and the exclusive resort –easily the best in Eastern Visayas – was designed with relaxation and romance in mind.
There are only seven cottages set far enough from each other to ensure utmost privacy, and these spacious and tastefully appointed villas inspired by Thai, Balinese and Filipino architecture are equipped with required modern conveniences such as a television, hot shower and air conditioner.
Complementing the topnotch accommodations are the high quality of service and the acceptable range of food and beverages.
Guests can choose to have their hot meals and snacks brought to their villas, or they can enjoy the company of their fellow guests at the main cottage. And if they feel like throwing a party for family and friends, The Surf Camp staff is ready and willing to prepare a feast.
But the real attraction of The Surf Camp is its access to the best waves in this part of the Philippines, which are perfect for novice and experienced surfers alike.
Summer months are ideal for beginners training on gentle two-to-three-foot waves, while the more seasoned surfers can come during the latter months of surfing season that runs from April to November for the bigger, more challenging waves.
Visitor arrivals reach their peak in October because of the Eastern Samar Surfing Crown, a competition first held in 2005.
Backing the competition, which is part of the Philippine Surfing Circuit, are the Department of Tourism, the provincial government of Eastern Samar, the municipal government of Guiuan and the Philippine Surfing Federation.
Many of The Surf Camp’s guests, however, prefer to just sit back and relax on their lounge chairs facing the sea. The sound of silence is just too soothing to be ignored.
Among the first visitors of The Surf Camp are honeymooners from Korea who are only too happy to take either the commercial flight to Tacloban and then the two-hour shuttle service to Calicoan or The Surf Camp’s private plane from Cebu to the Guiuan airport, which once saw the landing of bombers during World War II.
These days, The Surf camp is hosting more company outings and reeling in an increasing number of corporate travelers yearning for a break from their routine.
It is this anticipation of more travelers going to the Surf Camp and Guiuan that prompted Smart Communications Inc. to invest in the upgrade of the telecommunications system in the area so that visitors would still be able to stay in touch with their office or families through their mobile phone or laptops.
Smart already boasts of the most extensive mobile phone coverage for basic services such as text messaging and phone calls, thus its next step is to expand its mobile broadband services.
“We realize that many tourists and travelers are only able to go on vacation if they get to stay in touch, like check their email,” says Smart spokesperson Ramon Isberto,” That is why we are improving not just our GSM network but also our broadband services in tourist destinations like Guiuan.”
This should give travelers one more reason to get off the beaten path and take a break in rustic Guiuan.


http://www.cirdc.com/
http://www.calicoansurfcamp.com/
www.calicoanislandvillas.com

[pthfndr19]

How about the soft opening of the Ciriaco Hotel in Calbayog? Did it pushthrough last week(fiesta)?

[cyberkada]

DENR opens the 2011 National Search for Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Schools

Interested schools that would like to participate in the 2011 National Search for Sustainable and Eco-friendly Schools may start submitting their school’s documentation of its eco-friendly program, according to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).

According to DENR Secretary Ramon J.P. Paje, the eco-friendly schools program launched last 2009 generated positive responses from the schools and this paved the way for the next wave of the competition in 2011.

“We intended to have the awarding of the search next year instead of this year to allow schools more time to prepare and to enhance their existing eco-friendly programs. We are hoping to encourage more schools to participate and take part in heightening environmental awareness among our youth,” Paje said.

The nationwide contest dubbed, “2011 National Search for Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Schools,” is a direct response to Republic Act No. 9512 also known as the Environmental Awareness and Education Act of 2008. It is also the Philippine initiative in support to the ASEAN Environmental Education Action Plan (2008-2012).

The contest was also organized to highlight achievement of schools that are committed in implementing various environmental programs. Open to all elementary, high school and tertiary school levels, both public and private, the activity aims to encourage schools and academic institutions to become more actively involved in environmental issues at a practical and local level. It also aims to develop skills and understanding among students, faculty and school administrators to initiate active responses and increase community awareness and involvement on environmental concerns.

Last year, a total of nine schools were declared as national champs for the 2009 National Search for Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Schools. These are the following: (Elementary Category) First prize - Peñablanca East Central School, Aggugaddan-Malibabag, Peñablanca, Cagayan; Second prize - North Central Elementary School, Bonuan Gueset, Dagupan City, Pangasinan; and Third prize - Badas Elementary School, Badas, Placer, Surigao del Norte.

For the high school category, the winners are: First place - La Castellana National High School, La Castellana, Negros Occidental; Second place - Camarines Sur National High School, Naga City, Camarines Sur; and Third place- Daniel R. Aguinaldo National High School, Matina, Davao City.

For the college category, the winners are: First place – Palawan State University, Puerto Princesa City, Palawan; Second place – Visayas State University, Baybay, Leyte; and Third place – Catanduanes State Colleges, Virac, Catanduanes.

The national search is a joint activity of the DENR through the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB), the Department of Education (DepEd), Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and Smart Communications.

Smart Communications joins the activity as part of its own environment advocacy for schools. “We are happy to partner again with the DENR and other agencies for this nationwide search. This activity will encourage schools to promote environmental consciousness among the youth,” said Ramon Isberto, Smart Public Affairs Head.

Participating schools must submit entries in three (3) hard copies to respective DepEd Division Offices for elementary and high school categories, and to EMB Regional Offices for the higher education category. The minimum requirement for judging will be the hard copies. Entries can likewise be submitted online in JPEG format with a resolution of 300 dots per inch (dpi), a minimum size of 1536 x 2048 pixels, and a maximum file size of 1MB. Entries may be emailed to ecofriendlyschools@gmail.com. The top entry per category for every region will be forwarded to the EMB Central Office for national judging.

For elementary and high school categories, entries should be submitted directly to their respective DepEd Division Offices. On the other hand, for the college category, entries should be submitted to the nearest EMB Regional Office. The deadline for the submission of entries is on April 29, 2011.

School entries should revolve around the theme "Sustainable and Eco-friendly Initiatives.” Participating schools should include a brief description of the Project.

Entries will be rated according to the following: Environment-related Aspects of the School’s Policy (20 pts); Environment-friendly School Operations and Presence of Environmental Programs (30 pts); Environment-related Features of the School Curriculum (30 pts); Presence of Vibrant Eco Organizations in Campus (10 pts); and Presence of Partners and Linkages in Environment Programs/Projects (10 pts). Only one entry per school will be accepted.

For the national level, prizes include, College, High School and Elementary: P50,000 - 1st Prize; P40,000 - 2nd Prize; P30,000 - 3rd Prize and plaques of recognition. For the regional level, a certificate of recognition and a prize of in cheque of P10,000 will be given to regional winners for each category.

All winning entries for each of the three categories, together with selected entries will be displayed during the national awarding ceremonies in November 2011, coinciding with the National Environmental Awareness Month celebration.

For further details, please contact the Environmental Education and Information Division of the Environmental Management Bureau-DENR. Telefax: (02) 9284674. or Tel. No. (02) 9202251 Website: www.emb.gov.ph and www.sustainableschools.ph

[ijun]

Pano yan? Mag-iikot-ikot ka naman iyan @cyberkada?

Nice!

[ijun]

Caluwayan Beach Resort to expand next year

MARABUT, Samar - The Caluwayan Palm Island Beach Resort in this town will expand its facility next year to attract more gatherings in the area, the propertys manager said.

Zenaida P. Consimino, manager of the family-run business, claimed that the ambience of the resort is perfect for meetings but it is hampered by the absence of facilities such as function hall with apartments for seminars and conferences.

"This place has drawn many visitors especially during weekend after we built a pool. Foreigners like this place because of serenity while locals came to experience recreation," claimed Consimino, a native of Caluwayan village.

She added that conference hall will initially require about P3 million. "We have to put a lot (of investment) and build a name." The family is also considering setting up water bungalows.

The resort was opened in 2005 and it has been a venue of various special occasions. The three-hectare property offers possibilities for island hopping, rock climbing, other aqua-sports activities and sightseeing.

"The idea of setting up a resort started when our friends love to visit in our place because its very relaxing," she added.

The rock formations visible along Marabut shores has driven investors to buy properties in the area and set up a resort but only the property owned by the Consiminos is accredited by the Department of Tourisms so far.

The resort is called "palm island" because it is flanked with rivers dotted with coconut trees.

Among the amenities in Caluwayan are bistro bar lounge, grill house, beach cottage, boat rental, shower house, and infinity pool. To accommodate the guests overnight, the resort has two open cottages and four beach villas. Room rates varies from P1,000 to P4,000.

The property surrounded by a breathtaking view of towering rock islands and islets with secluded coves and coral gardens.

Consimino said that the place is ideal for scuba diving, snorkeling, sea kayaking, sailing, and swimming.

For an entrance fee of only P20, one can enjoy sun-bathing or simply lazing on the beach enjoying the view of the beautiful seascape.

The resort can be reached by car - 45 minutes drive from Tacloban City, passing through the famous San Juanico Bridge that connects Leyte and Samar; and the ancient town Basey, which is famous for its unique cave and mats.

The resort can also be reached directly by boat from Tacloban City port area.

Tourism industry in Marabut town boomed about 10 years ago after an international hard sports competition and expedition was held in the town. Since then, the municipality continued to welcome tourists from different parts of the country and around the world. (Sarwell Q. Meniano)

[calbayognon]

Originally Posted by pthfndr19

How about the soft opening of the Ciriaco Hotel in Calbayog? Did it pushthrough last week(fiesta)?

It did not push through. Don't know when will be their next target date of opening.

[pthfndr19]

Ah OK.. kasi nung dumaan ako dyan nung Sept 5 on-going pa ang construction at mukhang matatagalan pa ng konti.... siguro sa December tapos na un.

[ijun]

Resources-Endowed Samar Town Gets German Funds

By ROY C. MABASA
September 15, 2010, 8:32pm
www.mb.com.ph

The German Embassy in Manila recently granted the natural resources-endowed municipality of Calbiga in Samar Island funds for ecotourism promotion and as a source of livelihood for locals.

In a statement, the German Embassy said the P500,000 fund granted Calbiga is part of its Ecotourism Site Enhancement Project aimed to particularly improve a trail that would make the route to Lulugayan Falls in barangay Literon more accessible.

Although hundreds of waterfalls cascade down the 14-kilometer rapids from the source at Lake Kalidongan down to Calbiga River, the most majestic and panoramic of these is Lulugayan Falls.

Approximately fifty meters wide, Lulugayan Falls has been dubbed by tourists as a mini-Niagara.

Representatives of Calbiga municipality, led by Mayor Melchor Nacario, visited the German Embassy in Manila for the contract signing.

Ralph Timmermann, Deputy Head of Mission of the German Embassy, released the grant to Nacario.

"Small-scale projects are local initiatives funded by the German Embassy and implemented through non-profit entities. Through quick and direct assistance, the projects aim to directly improve the quality of life of the poorest sectors of society," Timmermann said.
Calbiga is truly one of Samar Island and the countrys richest areas in terms of natural resources. Other than the majestic Lulugayan Falls, one may also find there the caves of Langun-Gobingob.
Found in Bgy. Panayuran, the caves are the largest cave system in the Philippines. Seven kilometers long and with an area of 900 square kilometers, the Langun- Gobingob caves is also reputedly the second largest cave system in the Asian region and is the third largest karst formation in the world. Karst is a type of landscape formed by soluble rocks, including limestone and dolomite, dissolved over the centuries.

There, too, in Bgy. Literon is Kalidongan lake, a crater-like body of water nearly 100 meters in diameter lined with clean white limestone, with clear, fresh water flowing down the rapids and on to Calbiga River and Maqueda Bay.

Calbiga River is the towns lifeline, serving as source of water and transport byway to Calbigas 17 barangays. Maqueda Bay and mangrove forests, meanwhile, are the most copious spawning grounds in EasternVisayas for aquamarine resources, including crustaceans and is a pillar of Samar Islands economy.

Meanwhile, another huge caves system in Calbiga town is Kanyawa Caves in Brgy. Caamlongan explored recently by French and Italian spelunkers. Kanyawa is comprised of fifteen galleries of distinctive features and underground rivers, with numerous stalactites and stalagmites.

[Miss N]

Originally Posted by ijun

DoT pushes restoration of historical sites in EV

TACLOBAN CITY - The Department of Tourism regional office here has listed cultural, historical and heritage sites in Eastern Visayas that badly need funding support to preserve its value.

Tourism regional director Karina Rosa S. Tiopes expressed concern over deteriorating conditions of these sites, which have been not prioritized for maintenance and development.

"We were asked by our central office to come up with priority list of historical and heritage sites so that when there are financial assistance available, we can immediately present the list," Tiopes told Leyte Samar Daily Express.

The official said that the major requirements for the sites in the priority list are rehabilitation and physical improvement.

"The curiosity of visitors are there but their experience during the tour in these significant places is not pleasant," she added.

First in the list is the Sto. Shrine in this city, which houses priceless art objects mostly owned by the Marcos family. It was observed that the property has not been highly maintained after the take over by the Presidential Commission on Good Government.

The tourism regional chief explained that the physical conditions of 11 World War II engagement sites and Japanese memorial shrines located in different towns of Leyte are now worsening despite interests of Japanese to tour the place.

"There is also a need to train local guides who can tell the story of the bravery of soldiers and civilians who fought during the war," the proposal stated.

Another site is the Capul Church and Capul Lighthouse in Capul, Northern Samar. The island town was part of the route of the Acapulco Trade being the first entry point for ships plying the route where sailors could purchase food and precious water and repairs to their ships.

The towns church still houses Spanish cannon and fort, which serves as islanders place of refuge during the Moro raids.

"The lighthouse, which needs restoration, is significant in tourism because from there, one can get a breathtaking view of San Bernardino as well as wide panoramic, unsullied white beaches," the proposal explained.

The famous Balangiga Encounter Site in Balangiga, Eastern Samar also needs some improvement especially of their public park where the mural is located. In 1901, Filipino patriots of the town made a surprise attack on American soldiers.

Also in the list is the Malitbog Church , Escaño Ancestral Home, and Escaño Mausoleum in Malitbog, Southern Leyte . The Church, which is one of few remaining Spanish old stone churches in Region 8, showcases the architecture of 1900s.

The Escaño Ancestral Home in Malitbog was constructed in the late 19th century following the colonial type of structure. It used to house 300 clan members during special occasions.

Tourism stakeholders also listed the 17th century Basey Church in Basey, Samar . It was the venue of public gatherings and stage plays during the Japanese occupation. The Buscada Graveyard Chapel of the town was also built circa 17th century. It is the only existing Graveyard Church following the tradition of European churches.

"Developing the site is significant because it is the jump off point to other significant tourism sites in the town like the Sohoton and Rawis Caves ," Tiopes said.

The tourism official lamented that there has been no major development projects implemented in those sites because of its historical and cultural value, which can draw tourists. (Sarwell Q. Meniano)

This is great news!

Yipeeee! Thread 6!