BusinessWeek Mindanao (July 7-13, 2013)

MGB names 340 villages prone to severe flooding GENERAL SANTOS CITY -- The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) in Region 12 has identified, at least, 340 villages in the region as prone to severe flooding during the rainy season. Constancio Paye Jr., MGB Region 12 director, said their latest assessment on the region’s flood vulnerability showed

that 179 villages in North Cotabato and Cotabato City, 72 in Sultan Kudarat province, 69 in South Cotabato and 20 in Sarangani are considered as flood-prone and “inhabitable during flooding.” He said such assessment was based on the detailed geo-hazard mapping

Volume IV, No. 5

conducted by the agency in the region. Region 12, which is also known as the Soccsksargen Region, comprises the provinces of South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, General Santos, Kidapawan and Cotabato. “We already informed the concerned flooding/PAGE 11

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Repair works at the Tunggol Bridge in the town of Datu Montawal in Maguindanao. Constant flooding in the upland areas damaged the bridge foundation. mindanews photo

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XU creates community, not just houses for Sendong survivors T

By Cheng Ordoñez, Editor-in-Chief

EAM managers, lead organizers and main benefactors of the Xavier University-Lumbia Resettlement Project (XU-LRP) on Saturday, July 06, 2013, held the blessing and turn-over ceremony of the permanent houses at Xavier Ecoville, the XU-led resettlement community for Sendong survivors, to their respective beneficiaries, at Xavier Ecoville in Lumbia, Cagayan de Oro City. True to its slogan of not just building houses, but building a community, XU-LRP turned over not just concrete edifices but permanent homes to wellorganized community of 2,582 Sendong survivors (517 households), at the Lumbia resettlement after a year and a half of “slowly but orderly

construction and community organization.” The Xavier UniversityLumbia Resettlement Project is a joint endeavor of Xavier University (Ateneo de Cagayan) and the local government of Cagayan de Oro that aims to resettle, at least, 500 families who are sendong/PAGE 11

More than 600 casual employees and those on job orders (JO) with the city government here have been place on “wait and see” status, following an inquiry into their work and assignments by the new administration headed by Mayor Oscar Moreno. M a y o r Mo r e n o h a s drawn a line between city hall employees he wants to work with and those he wants to vacate their posts during the flag-raising ceremony,

last Monday, July 1, 2013, when all elected government officials in the country have started their official day in office either as newly elected or re-elected government officials. Mayor More no s ai d casual employees and those working on Job Orders hired by past administration mainly because they have allegedly been used for the campaign period and the May 13, 2013, Casuals/PAGE 11

Jose Edgardo Uy

Kagay-anons received with mixed reactions the decision from city hall that the night café and the night market held every Friday and Saturday at Plaza Divisoria, here, will no longer be allowed, following changes in the local government’s agenda under the city’s new mayor, Oscar Moreno. Moreno, former Misamis

City hall’s casuals, JOs on ‘wait and see’ status

Member-beneficiaries of Xavier Ecoville join the village parade during the turn-over and blessing of their houses Saturday, July 6, 2013, at Lumbia, Cagayan de Oro. (Top photos) Far left: A beneficiary in the resettlement area listens from inside her new home to Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Oscar Moreno during the opening program after which organizers, Xavier University and benefactors, turnover more than 500 houses to Sendong survivors their permanent homes in Lumbia. Xavier University president Fr. Roberto C. Yap gestures as he tells guests about the XU-LRP being not just building houses, but building a community during the opening program of the turn-over and blessing ceremonies at Lumbia. photos by mikee espiritu

Night café, market closure met with mixed reactions Oriental governor, assumed last Monday, July 1, as the new city mayor vice Vicente Emano. Prior to the closure order, every Friday and Saturday evening, the whole street of Plaza Divisoria is closed to traffic. Food kiosks are set up along the street, seafood and meat off the grill, plus other “street foods,” including

lechon. On these nights, Plaza Divisoria turned into a dining place, a venue for closure/PAGE 11 A police officer guards a vehicle laden with plastic chairs and tables to sell at Divisoria, Cagayan de Oro City on Friday, June 6, 2013. A group of stall owners tried to defy the order of newly-elected Mayor Oscar Moreno suspending the night café operations. mindanews photo by froilan gallardo

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AgriBusiness

Rice farmers’ techno forum held in DA’s research station Dangcagan, Bukidnon – Anchored on the Philippine government’s target of achieving ample supply of rice by the year 2013 and onwards, the Bukidnon Agricultural Productivity Center (BAPC), one of the research stations of the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 10 (DA-10), recently conducted its 3rd Rice Farmers Technology Forum on June 28, 2013, in this town. The said activity primarily aimed at showcasing inbred

rice varieties, namely NSIC Rc 158, 212, 214, 222, 224,

226 and 240, and organic rice seed growth to rice farmers. Technical experts from the station have imparted the characteristics of various inbred rice varieties, including their reaction to pests and diseases, eating quality, yield, among others. Out from the abovesaid varieties, harvest yield ranges from 5.4 metric tons per hectare (mt/ha) to 10.6 mt/ha with an average

Nearly 50 rice farmer-guests (left) in the locality recited in unison the Panaad sa Pagdaginot sa Humay, signifying their commitment to contribute in the government’s goal of achieving rice self-sufficiency for the country with 2013 as its earliest target. Meanwhile, DA-10 Regional Technical Director for Regulatory and Research Constancio C. Maghanoy, Jr. (right) stresses the rice farmers’ integral role in providing food for the nation.

maturing days of 113. Likewise, a guided field tour on the station’s Pa l ay am an an w a s a l s o

conducted. It is a diversified farming system that employs the bahay-kubo concept, in which it was innovated for

Lanao Norte receives P5.8M farm equipment TUBOD, Lanao del Norte With its unwavering effort in attaining food security and sufficiency, the Department of Agriculture-10 (DA-10) has turned-over P5.8 million worth of farm equipment in support to rice production to the provincial government of Lanao del Norte, during the Agri-Aqua, Livestock and One Town One Product (OTOP) Fair conducted in celebration of the 54th Founding Anniversary of the province. The farm equipment which includes one unit of combine harvester, six units of shallow tube well, seven units of power tiller, 12 units of rice cutter and one unit of drilling rig is expected to benefit local farmers in the province. Lealyn A. Ramos, DA-10 Regional Executive Director lauded the contribution of the province of Lanao del Norte in bringing about agricultural development which facilitated in uplifting the lives of

Engr. Roxana H. Hojas (right), DA-10 Regional Technical Director for Operations hand-over P5.8M worth of farm equipment to Lanao del Norte Governor Mohamad Khalid Q. Dimaporo (center) and Provincial Agriculture Officer Letecia Ditucalan (left) during the Agri-Aqua, Livestock and OTOP Fair in celebration of the 54th Founding Anniversary of Lanao del Norte.

marginalized farmers and fisherfolks, as delivered by Engr. Roxana H. Hojas, DA-10 Regional Technical Director for Operations. “I am grateful and appreciative that you have exerted another ef for t in a l low ing our farmers, fisherfolks, agri-

entrepreneurs and many other stakeholders of the mother of all industries… to take the center stage and to exhibit, promote and sell their respective farm harvest and fish catch and other agriproducts at the same time increase their sales while naturally augmenting their

income,” RTD Hojas quoted. Moreso, Lanao del Norte Governor Mohammad Khalid Q. Dimaporo expressed his gratitude to the DA and other government agencies with the downpour of support in mitigating hunger and malnutrition and in making the province competitive

in the aspect of agriculture by initiating livelihood opportunities to farming communities, establishing agri-related infrastructures such as farm-to-market roads and providing support for farm mechanization, among others. (VANESSA MAE S. SIANO,

DA-RAFID 10)

a higher level of farming integration. As such combines rice with other high valued crops, fish and waste recycling practices, which is seen to increase farmers’ productivity and income by maximizing the use of farmlands while contributing to ecological balance. As this year is als o declared as the ‘National Year of Rice,’ the DA through BAPC station superintendent Ulito T. Kingdom stressed the farmers’ role to be one with the government in its bid for the country to become a surplus supplier of rice starting 2013 and beyond as expressed in the Panaad sa Pagdaginot sa Humay. “Isip usa ka Pilipino, nakighiusa ako sa pagpanaad nga dili mag-usik-usik sa kanon ug bugas…tudloan nako ang uban sa responsableng pagkunsumo aron mahatagan ug bili ang kahago sa mga mag-uuma ug makatabang ako sa pagkab-ot nga mapaigo ang gidaghanong bugas sa Pilipinas,” nearly 50 farmerguests have pledged. Also citing that “the only thing constant in this world is change,” DA1 0 R e g i on a l Te ch n i c a l Director for Research and Regulatory Constancio C. forum/PAGE 10

UPDATING OF INFORMATION AND TECHNOLOGIES ON POSTHARVEST AND MECHANIZATION Envisioning postharvest and mechanization development for the agriculture and fishery sector of the country, the Philippine Center for Postharvest Development and Mechanization-Applied Communication Division (PhilMech-ACD) recently briefed the Department of Agriculture – Regional Field Office 10 (DA-10) for an updating of information and technologies on postharvest and mechanization. Attended by its representatives from the Regional Agriculture and Fisheries Information Division, banner programs, attached bureaus and agencies, Dr. Rodolfo P. Estigoy (left), PhilMech-ACD head said, that the meeting primarily aimed to convey to the department’s key informants on the agency’s current infrastructure programs on postharvest and mechanization, including Rice Mechanization, which seeks to contribute in increasing the current level of rice productivity by 5%; agricultural tramline system, which intends to minimize the drudgery of transport of agri-produce and farm inputs; and cold chain, which targets to address the inefficiencies in the perishable agri-fishery sector using cooling technology to preserve the quality and prolong the shelf life of agri-produce. Likewise, he introduced breakthroughs such as the cashew nut sheller, multi-commodity solar tunnel dryer, charcoal-fired cabinet oven, and coffee depulper, among others, in which he recognizes that although farmers may have resistance to change in using such technologies, Dr. Estigoy encouraged the attendees to persuade more farmers for the availment of the abovesaid innovations to “transform the future of agriculture.” (Joanne L. Olson, DA-10) photo by : VMSS iano

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Tourism

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SouthCot town gets P30M For tourism development By Allen V. Estabillo

GENERAL SANTOS CITY — The Department of Tourism (DOT) is investing some P30 million this year for the development of various tourism-related infrastructure in Tupi town in South Cotabato. South Cotabato Gov. Daisy Avance-Fuentes said such investment is part of the DOT’s continuing ef for ts to de velop ne w tour ist att rac t ions and destinations in the countryside, especially in parts of Mindanao. “ T h i s i s a f i n an c i a l grant for the construction of tourism facilities like cottages and tourist or visitor information centers as well as the improvement of road networks,” she said. The governor said the project will be implemented in Barangay Linan in Tupi, which hosts a tarsier sanctuary. She said the funds will be drawn from the P30million allotment earlier approved by the D OT ’s Tourism Infrastructure and Economic Zone Authority (TIEZA) for tourism projects in Lake Sebu town. She s aid t he y aske d TIEZA to realign the funds to Tupi town following the approval last month of

a P120-million grant for the development of a road network within Lake Sebu’s “eco-tourism circuit.” Tupi Mayor Reynaldo Ta m a y o s a i d t h e y a r e pushing for the utilization of the TIEZA funding for the improvement of the road from the tarsier sanctuary in Barangay Linan to the national highway. He said they are eyeing for p ossible addit iona l grants from the agenc y to further boost the development of the town’s tourist attractions. The mayor specifically cited the town’s hot and soda springs, cold springs, waterfalls, tarsier sanctuary, among others. “We need to work for the inclusion of Tupi into TIEZA to fully develop the tourism potentials of our municipality,” Tamayo said. B ar ang ay L i n an h a s emerge d as one of t he province’s top attractions in the past several years due to the discovery of the

tarsiers in the area. California-based conservation group Endangered Species International (ESI) is currently conducting f i el d stu d i e s re g ard i ng the primate, especially its habitat. The ESI team, which is headed by its founder and president Dr. Pierre Fidenci, launched the tarsier research in December 2011 in two sites within the he Mt. Matutum Protected Landscape (MMPL). The municipal government of Tupi had endorsed ESI’s research project as part of its efforts to tap the tarsiers and its h abit at for e c otou r i s m development. In 2009, the indigenous p e ople of Sit io B agong Silang in Barangay Linan captured a tarsier along with three grass owls. The Philippine tarsier, which has brought fame to B ohol, is one of the country’s primary flagship species for conservation. According to the International Union for the Conservation of Nature, the Philippine tarsier (Tarsius syrichta) has been classified as “near threatened.” (Allen V. Estabillo/MindaNews)

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CO-EXISTING. Monkeys feast on bananas given by visitors in Barangay New Israel in Makilala, North Cotabato on June 30, 2013. The monkeys in the place have co-existed with humans community-wise since the 1940s. mindanews photo by ruby thursday more

DOT in Intramuros kicks off ‘More Fun’ activities

Church and Casa Manila. “Intramuros, as a historical and cultural center, plays an important role in the promotion of Manila as a premier destination. The walls of Intramuros tell a beautiful story of our resilience. It is not only an important cultural landmark, but also one of the historical treasures we Filipinos must protect,” Tourism Secretary Ramon R. Jimenez, Jr. said. “It would be fulfilling to see our youth of today discover new reasons to appreciate the Walled City and become active participants in its promotion,” the tourism chief added.

THE Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Intramuros Administration launched “Kultura…Musika…Saya!” featuring Intramuros Rocks, a free-admission concert at the Maestranza Park of the Walled City on 5 July 2013. Intramuros Rocks serves as a kick-off activity of t he many prog rams a n d e v e nt s u n d e r t h e Intramuros Redevelopment Plan aimed at promoting cultural appreciation and h e r i t a g e aw a re n e s s t o the public, especially the youth. The concert featured bands and artists including Shamrock, Spirit of ‘67, Pilipinas Got Talent finalist

Zilent Overload, and many others. There was also a bazaar, featuring food stalls and booths selling local handicraft, tribal arts, and other novelty items within the newly restored Maestranza Park. The venue, also called Almacenes Curtain Wall, is situated right beside the Pasig River and was a former storehouse and soldier’s quarter during the Spanish time. Formerly the seat of Spanish colonial rule in the Philippines, Intramuros is home to important historical sites and tourist spots such as Fort Santiago, Manila Cathedral, San Agustin

Zambo airport increases terminal fee

P. Princesa’s Feast gets a new date

ZAMBOANGA CITY – The Zamboanga International Airport (ZIA) has increased its terminal fee from P40 to P100 per passenger effective last Monday. This came after the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) approved last year’s request of the ZIA to increase its terminal fee. However, ZIA manager Celso Bayabos said they originally recommended for an increase of P150 per passenger but CAAP only approved a P60 increase for this year. Bayabos said the new P100 terminal fee will be increased to P150 by June 2014 according to the conditions set by CAAP in granting approval to increase the terminal fee. Bayabos said this amount will not be enough for the planned operational and maintenance needs of the airport terminal considering the dilapidated state of the facility. He said the local airport’s share in the collection of terminal fee is only 10 percent since 90 percent is being turned over to the CAAP-central office. The facilities of ZIA are not at par with airports in the

By Celeste Anna Formoso

PUERTO PRINCESA CITY – The city government has identified a new date to continue the tradition of annually holding the revered mass tree planting project Pista Y Ang C agueban (Feast of the Forest) on the mountains of Barangay Irawan. According to George Vasquez of the city government under the office of Mayor Lucilo Bayron, the Pista Y Ang Cagueban will now be held on the last Saturday of the month, or on July 27. It can be noted that the Pista Y Ang Cagueban, which was supposed to be held on June 29, was postponed due to lack of preparation because of the 2013 elections. “We just had a recent meeting, and our Pista Y Ang Cagueban will now happen on July 27. We just moved it to be able to prepare,” Vasquez told local

media interviews. Around eight hectares of land and tree saplings are currently being prepared in Barangay Irawan for the annual mass planting, and the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) is leading this with lawyer Reggie Tulali. Unlike before when national artists were invited, this time, he said Bayron wants local talents to perform in the holding of the forest feast to give them time to shine. Various stake holders are also going to be invited, including special guests from national offices. “We are inviting everyone to participate in the Pista Y Ang Cagueban again this July. Let’s go to the mountains of Irawan to once again honor our environment by doing our share for her welfare,” he said. (PNA)

cities of Manila, Cebu, Davao or even Cagayan de Oro. Although the airport is named as an international airport, it has stopped servicing international flights in the last few years.

ZIA used to serve planes ply i ng t he Z amb o ang a Sandakan route in Sabah. These days, ZIA serves only local flights to and from Manila, Cebu, Cagayan de Oro and Davao.(PNA)

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Smart keeps the good going via payITfwd EXTRAORDINARY deeds by ordinary people can make a positive difference in this world. It can be the retiree who trains the unemployed women in the community on livelihood crafts, or the group of athletes that holds sports clinics for street children. Wireless leader Smart C o m mu n i c at i o n s , In c . (Smart) is giving these acts of kindness a further boost by way of payITfwd , a new social development initiative that aims to enable the spread of social good acts or ‘smart acts’ using technology. ‘’The goal is to support, promote, expand, enhance, reward and enable social good efforts that foster learning through technology. With payITfwd, social good advocates can scale up and even encourage the public to support their cause, ‘’said Ramon Isberto, head of Smart Public Affairs Group. Through the initiative, Smart is looking for individuals or groups t hat are a lre ady doing community-based projects that contribute to learning or expansion of knowledge in various fields such as education, environment, disaster preparedness, health, livelihood and sports. Entries must be submitted in video format showing an overview of the project, its impact to the recipient c o m m u n i t y, a n d h o w technology can enable the

project or further spread its benefits. Smart will be selecting the best 20 entries in a tworound selection process that will run from May 21 up to July 31, and August 16 to October 31 this year. Entries will be judged based on the impact of the project in the community, its novelty and proposed use of technology. Voting of best entries via social media will also have bearing on the final score

of entries. Each of the selected social good advocates, 10 for each round, will received a technology package compromising five tablets, 1 Smart Bro pocket Wi-Fi, Smart Bro load worth P 3,000, and a cash prize of P 50,000. ‘’While technology can facilitate efficiencies in operations and help expand reach, access to these is often a luxury for community-

b a s e d i n i t i at i v e s . T h e program will allow them easy access to such technology simply by reporting what they have already done and are targeting to achieve with the help of technology. This utilizes Smart’s technology solutions to help the spread o f s o c i a l g o o d ,’’ s a i d Stephanie Orlino , Smart Public Affairs manager for education programs. ‘’Technology not only increases to learning but

enables these smart acts to spread its benefits to more communities thus keeping the ‘good going,’’ added Orlino In launching this initiative, Smar t hop es to increase learning oppor tunities of target communities through technology. To know more about payITfwd and the complete mechanics, visit www.smart. com.ph/payITfwd.

P3.6-B worth of tablets Maintain safety and peace of mind sold in PH in first half with reliable connectivity this rainy season

THE popularity of tablets among Filipinos has become more apparent as research f i r m Gf K re p or te d on Wednesday that at least P3.6 billion worth of tablets were sold in the country during the first five months of the year alone. This value accounted for 259,800 tablet units sold from January to May, GfK said, with 7-inch tablets leading the charge constituting 64 percent of all tablet sales

during the period. As of writing, there are currently 189 models from 40 brands being sold in the domestic market today. Tablets have become viable alternatives to notebooks and desktop computers as they are currently more affordable and oftentimes more portable than their PC counterparts. In some cases, tablets are already equally powerful as their full-fledged computing counterparts.

AFTER the prickly heat of summer, rainy days are often celebrated with its refreshing, cool weather. But as we’ve all seen in the past, it also poses serious danger to people and properties with its tendency to bring heavy flooding and strong winds. Due to this, it is necessary to stay informed to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe during this season. While T V and radio are the usual go-to sources of information, a mobile phone is also a great tool to keep us informed nowadays, especially when on the go and in times of urgency. And with the rise of smartphones, we are now more empowered to be updated and educated on the latest news and updates during the rainy season. In fact, more people rely on their mobile phones now for real-time updates as it empowers them to

get information anytime, any w h e re t h rou g h t h e internet on their phones. Mobile internet allows them to gain access to reliable and immediate information through social media like Twitter and Facebook, and online applications such as Project Noah and MMDA. Through these, they can know the latest developments about the weather, traffic and outside situations that enable them to make more comprehensive decisions to avoid any danger. With this in mind, it is imperative for us to get reliable and economical connectivity. And this is where Sun Cellular comes in. Network provider Sun C el lu l ar of fe rs mobi l e Internet loads called iLoads that can help its subscribers stay connected wherever they may be. With iLoads,

subscribers can experience a full Internet access on their mobile phones for as low as 15 pesos a day, depending on their need and budget. To get a full list of iLoads offerings, simply text ILOADS to 2300 for free. To avail any of these, go to the nearest Sun retailer or convert your regular load by texting the keyword to 247. Aside from the Internet on our phones, mobile connectivity also empowers us the ability to call our family and friends to ensure they’re safe or if they need some form of help. They say – information is the key to safety and security. And in times like this, that statement couldn’t be any truer. More so with the advancement in mobile connectivity, we are now in the position to heighten our and our loved-ones’ sense of reliable/PAGE 10

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Sun Cellular cracks down on fraudsters SUN Cellular has conducted entrapment proceedings in Sun Shop outlets following reports that some individuals h av e b e e n s u b m i t t i n g fraudulent applications for cell phone subscriptions. Since the start of the year, Sun Cellular has filed several cases against suspects who tried to file dubious subscription applications in an attempt to get handsets and free network usage attached to these subscription plans. “We are serious about bringing these fraudsters before the courts of law, not just because of the business losses that we incur with each fraudulent application, but also to make sure that the postpaid subscriptions they get from us will not be used for any other fraudulent activity,” said Reuben Pangan, Official Spokesperson of Sun Cellular. Pangan explained the suspects usually use falsified documents to avail of new plans, and some even present stolen credit cards to avail of promotions. Some apply in mu lt iple Sun Shops and present themselves as different individuals, with different sets of falsified proof of identification and proof of income. Apart from fraudulent applications, Sun Cellular mentioned that unidentified parties have been circulating messages aimed at extorting load credits from their subscribers. “We advise the public to be especially vigilant as scammers keep coming up with new schemes aimed at extorting load or money from unsuspecting mobile subscribers.” Pangan said. While these types of scam has been going on for years, Pangan said that in recent cases the scammers introduce themselves as representatives of Sun Cellular, stating that the receiver has ‘won’ some sort of promo that make the potential victim eligible to avail of free items such as load, cash or service fee exemptions and discounts, among others. The message would then require a series of numbers to be sent to 2292, which causes the receiver to unintentionally send a specific amount of load to the scammer’s prepaid number. The set of numbers “2292” is the short-code number for Sun Cellular’s “Give-A-Load”, which is a tool Sun Cellular subscribers use to send load credits to whomever they choose, usually relatives, friends or co-workers. Another modus operandi of text scammers is to pretend to be relatives of a certain subscriber claiming to be in an emergency or accident, or badly needing load credits. “Some may even pose as employees from our billing and collections department,” Pangan added.

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Environment

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Environmental group pushes for nat’l legislation vs plastic bag By Azer N. Parrocha

MANILA -- Environmental advocates on Wednesday led a march along the vicinity of J. P. Laurel High School, Tondo, Manila to send out the message of regulating the use, sale and distribution of plastic bags. This march was participated in by more than 500 students, school officials, parent-teacher officers, beauty queens, e nv i ron m e nt a l i s t s a n d supporters in celebration of the 4th International Plastic Bag-Free Day.

It also drew support from the city government of Manila headed by President Mayor Joseph Estrada as part of his administration’s environmental agenda to combat climate change. Estrada has previously mentioned during his oath

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taking as Mayor of Manila that his team would start cl e an i ng w ate r w ay s to mitigate flooding. Aside from this, he also mentioned that lessons from last year, citing the notorious flooding problem due to monsoon rains, must have already been learnt by now. The environmental group, EcoWaste Coalition has also shown support for the upcoming citywide ban on plastic bags and polystyrene containers that will take effect pushes/PAGE 10

Iloilo City river finalist in 2013 Thiess Int’l Riverprize award Bukidnon SP creates committee ILOILO CITY -- The Iloilo River in this southern city is the only one in the Philippines selected as one of four international finalists in the 2013 Thiess International Riverprize award. A communication dated July 3, 2013 from Matthew Reddy, chief executive of the International River Foundation based in Brisbane, Australia to city environment and natural resources officer Noel Hechanova showed the selection of the Iloilo River as a finalist in the international search. City Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog said the full rehabilitation of the Iloilo-Batiano river system started in 2011 and the city hosted the first international river

summit in May 2012. The efforts at the river showed a cohesive participation of government agencies and people’s organizations clearly showing a public private partnership in rehabilitation and preserving the river in this city. Mabilog said the river became an anchor of all development and pro-projects such as the Esplanade, housing projects for informal settlers displaced along the river and other danger zones, road widening, completion of circumferential and radial roads and construction of new ports for roll-on and roll water vessels and fast crafts. Aside from the Iloilo River, the other

international river finalists are the Bolshaya River in Russia, Mara River in Kenya, Africa and the Murray Darling Basin in Australia. The representatives of the finalist rivers are required to attend the 16th International Riversymposium on September 16-23, 2013 in Brisbane where the international grand winner will be announced during a gala dinner. They have the opportunity to present their work in the Riverprize sessions and meet other alumni members and symposium delegates. The international winner will win one million Australian dollars for projects. (PNA)

BFAR to fishermen: Let yourselves be counted By Roel Catoto

SURIGAO CIT Y —The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) is urging fisherfolk to enlist to the National Fisherfolk Registration Program, which has a funding of P200 million that includes provision for medical insurance to registered fishermen, BFAR director Asis Perez said. Perez and BFAR officials in the Caraga region held a consultative meeting here Tuesday with the local government units (LGUs) and other stakeholders to iron out some issues involving the fishing industry in the region’s five provinces. The intent of the program is to help alleviate the plight of small fishermen, he said, adding that a fisherman who

will register is entitled to receive health insurance. “The municipal fisheries sector provides 27 percent of the country’s close to five million metric tons total [annual] fish production volume. This is higher than the contribution of the commercial fishing sector at 21 percent. It is, however, lamentable that this sector composed of at least one million fishermen remains to be the poorest of the poor,” Perez said. Had BFAR completed the list of municipal fisherfolk, Perez said they “could have been given gasoline or diesel subsidy worth P1,200” similar to the Pantawid Pasada Program the government initiated for the public

transport sector in the last few years amid the series of fuel price increases. Perez said the program was also designed to assist LGUs in complying with the provisions of Republic Act 8550 or the Fisheries Code of 1998, particularly the registration of municipal fisherfolk. The bureau had devised mechanisms to ensure the full implementation of this program, which admittedly is long overdue, in close partnership with all coastal cities and municipalities, he said. “There’s a backlog of 15 years and we are seriously pushing this program to be completed this year,” he said. Perez noted they have simplified the registration

form to become “fisherfolkfriendly,” with the LGUs allowed to customize the registration certificate and identification card they would issue to reflect their official seals. “For our part, we want to recognize BFAR’s real beneficiaries. We will use the data to generate programs for coastal municipalities, their fisherfolk and organizations,” he said. To ensure “full compliance” by the fisheries sector, BFAR has earmarked P30 million for distribution to 899 coastal cities and municipalities in the form of incentives. “Through this, fisheries technicians from the local government units in coastal cities and municipalities who will facilitate the registration of fisherfolk will receive an incentive of P15 per registered fisherman,” Perez said. Perez said that coastal localities that can complete the registration of their fisherfolk will qualify to avail at least P2 million worth of fishery projects in 2014. (Roel Catoto/MindaNews)

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First-time Senators (L-R) JV Ejercito, Grace Poe-Llamanzares, Cynthia Villar, Nancy Binay and Juan Edgardo “Sonny’ Angara attended their orientation on legislative proceedings, Senate protocol and other rules and guidelines at the Senate 3 July 2013.

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on climate change adaptation, disaster preparedness By Walter I. Balane

MALAYBALAY CITY – In its inaugural session last Monday, the Bukidnon Sangguniang Panlalawigan included four new areas among its existing committees, including climate change adaptation and disaster preparedness. Provincial board member Jay Albarece, chair of the committee on rules and privileges, said the board is catching up on others that already have such a committee related to climate change and disaster preparedness. He stressed it is high time to create the committee with the present climate change situation. The committee on climate change adaptation and disaster preparedness is lumped with the committee on environmental protection. The committee is chaired by Alfeo Baguio of the third district, who chaired the original committee in the last provincial board. Ma. Easterluna Canoy, executive director of the Kitanglad Integrated NGOs, hoped the move is “not for compliance and cosmetic adjustment only.” “I hope the provincial government included climate change adaptation and disaster preparedness [due to the] urgency of the problem,” she told MindaNews. But Canoy noted that it is still a welcome move even if it came “quite late” for a province that is supposed to be “advanced” in climate change adaptation, mitigation and disaster preparedness. Canoy said it should translate into policies that would create climate change interventions and programs, which she noted should not endanger the natural habitat and existing resources of the province. “The move should result in the implementation of climate compatible development projects,” Canoy added. Another new committee is on ethics, which was added to Albarece’s committee on rules and privileges. He said the ethics committee would cover internal conduct at the provincial board. Albarece, the only lawyer left in the board, also chairs the committee on laws, labor, and manpower development. Social service for senior citizens and other areas was also included in the existing committee on women and family, health, and social services. Board member Marivic Montesclaros, who held the committee in the last provincial board, retained the post. Public Utility is also lumped into the committee on civil service, chaired by first district board member Clive Quiño, who was elected majority floor leader. He also chairs the committee on civil service. In his remarks after election, Quiño vowed a provincial board that looks “more of quality than quantity.” Among the highlights of the two-hour afternoon session was the selection of newcomer Bob Casanova, former Malaybalay City councilor, as chair of the committee on appropriations, ways and means. Veteran board member Manuel Dinlayan questioned the choice over re-elected board member Ranulfo Pepito. But Pepito told the session he respects the decision of the presiding officer in choosing Casanova, referring to Vice Governor Alex Calingasan, Calingasan said that Casanova was given the committee chairmanship because of his previous experience as chair of the committee on appropriations in the Malaybalay City council. Pepito, however, retained the committee on agriculture, cooperatives, and trade and industry. Dinlayan now chairs the committee on land use and human settlement, and agrarian reform. bukidnon/PAGE 10

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July 7-13, 2013

A Tricky Problem

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THINK

hink a minute.Have you ever stood by a fire when A Minute the smoke was so thick you By Jhan Tiafau Hurst almost thought you could grab it with your hands. But if you try, the smoke just disappears right through your fingers. It’s like that when we try to be humble. We grab for humility, but as soon as we think we’ve got it, it disappears like smoke through our fingers. You see, we trick ourselves when we start to think that we’re humble, because in our mind and heart we actually start feeling proud of ourselves that we’re humble. So you see, we’re still very proud. Our problem is the subtle, deceptive nature of pride. It makes us self-conscious, thinking about ourselves and how we good we are or look in front of others. Our pride competes and compares ourselves with others. That’s why we get angry when someone treats us like we’re not important. Our pride makes us want to act and impress others with how humble we are, when inside we still think we’re more important than some people. This is also why many people want to become rich millionaires. You see, if everybody in the world had a million dollars, then not many people would really want to be a millionaire because they would not be richer than anyone else. If everyone in the world had a high political position of respect and power, then not many people would want that kind of position because they would not be more respected and powerful than anyone else. Did you know that it is our pride which causes most of the problems in our life, whether it’s in our family, at work, school, or with friends and neighbors. Our hidden, tricky pride is the reason we get hurt and angry at others. It’s also the reason we will not forgive them, but instead even try to hurt them back. So is there any hope for us? Hurst/PAGE 7

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How Do You Trade Your Time?

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e are all time traders. Of all assets that we have at our disposal, time is our single most important resource. The value of a resource is often defined by its supply and demand profile. The more something is needed and the more its supply is limited, the higher its value becomes. With the limitation of our time and the highest demand we ascribe to it, it easily becomes inarguably the most valuable commodity we have. As the cliché goes, “time is gold.” Short of inventing a machine that can turn back time or freeze it for a certain length, time spent and lost can never be recovered. Unlike precious gems that can be secured safely in a vault, time cannot be hoarded and spent at a later period. Time continuously moves and slips by, whether we want it to or not. But like money with a corresponding value, time can however be saved and invested. When we manage our affairs excellently and give priority to the most important things first, we can save more time to spend for leisure and enjoyment. When we invest in something, we naturally expect some kind of return. How we use our time at each particular moment is an investment which determines the specific return we get out of it. Each and every hour of our lives, we trade our time for something in exchange. So it might pay you rich returns if you learn to constantly ask yourself: “How do I trade my valuable time right now?”

Time seems to work in mysterious ways but it generally Financial D octor follows the dictums of the law By Adonis Agcopra of cause and effect. The way you spend your time in the past was the immediate cause of what you are now. The way you are consciously or unconsciously spending your time right now is also a cause – in fact, it is precisely the exact cause of what happens to you in the next hour, in the next few days, months and years of your life. In our younger and innocent years when the ways of the world are quite foreign, it’s easy to think that time seems to move very slow and there seems to be not that much things to do. But when we are shoved to face the real world and find ways to earn our keep and make ends meet by ourselves, time suddenly seems not to suffice, continuously moving fast. Running after time becomes a daily routine. Spend most of your time with things that are fun and easy now, reap a lifetime of long-term pain. But invest your time wisely now, carefully planning and sacrificing shortterm pains for long-term gains, expect to live a happier, agcopra/PAGE 7

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Revisiting Marriage

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HAT God has joined together, let no man put asunder.” (Mk 10,10) We have just been reminded of the biblical basis for the indissolubility of marriage recently. With all the forces and elements now undermining the true nature and purpose of marriage, there is an urgent need to clarify and show the real face and beauty of this human, natural as well as supernatural institution. Countries and nations, supposedly developed and quite rich, are now legalizing forms of marriage that really have nothing to do with marriage. Same-sex unions, divorce, civil marriages among Catholic, temporary unions and cohabitations are not only spreading but are also getting legalized. The consolation so far is that they have not gone as far as to outlaw marriage as traditionally understood and as a sacrament. But if we are not careful, who knows what can happen in the near future? If they can legalize abortion, not to mention, contraception, there is reason to suspect these distortions of marriage can also be legalized sooner or later. So, we really have to keep close watch on the RH Bill, because the bad spirit behind it is the same one that animates all these disturbing developments involving marriage. In fact, someone just told me the Philippines is under heavy pressure now because we seem to be the only country in the world that has not legalized divorce yet. And there’s a bill already filed in Congress seeking to legalize divorce. There are those who are quite convinced, and wrongly convinced, if I may say, that marital problems can be solved by legalizing divorce. We need to talk a lot about this issue. The statistics on the ground seem to favor divorce. Of 10

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Catholic couples, a friend told me, 4 are married in Church, and Traces 3 are civilly married and 3 are By Fr. Roy Cimagala simply cohabiting. That’s, of course, a big problem. But it’s actually a challenge to face that requires more concerted and comprehensive efforts from those concerned. We are contending with a world culture that has lost the capacity to think deeply and thoroughly. It’s an ethos that is held captive by the quick and easy way of thinking and reacting, dominated mainly by worldly values like convenience, practicality, popularity, etc. The full and global picture of who and what we are is ignored if not ridiculed. This, of course, determines our proper attitude and praxis about marriage and the other institutions related to it—family, education... the spiritual and supernatural dimension of man is set aside. Instead only the material and social aspects are considered. The dynamism of today’s world, now heavily dependent on new technologies, has made people to be less thinking and just to be more practical, if not more self-absorbed and selfseeking. The objective, fundamental laws of our life, as written in our nature and as given by God our Creator, are often glossed over. In their stead are our mere estimations of Cimagala/PAGE 7

HINTS

A Time to Celebrate, A Time to Save

he whole Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) was in a festive mood last Wednesday (July 3) during the celebration of the institution’s 20th anniversary. In a rare opportunity, members of team BSP were able to spend some time off from work to mark the milestone together. The highlight of the celebration was the anniversary program, which featured a theatrical performance by BSP’s homegrown talents. Using the music of the classic Queen song “Bohemian Rhapsody,” they sang about inflation, remittances, and monetary policy tools. It was a light and fun approach to economics that ordinary Filipinos would enjoy and appreciate. And by no means was it an easy task. In fact, explaining and imparting banking and economic concepts to non-economists can be quite challenging. This is the reason why BSP puts extra effort and creativity in promoting financial literacy among Filipinos. Through seminars, trainings and exhibits organized by BSP’s Corporate Affairs Office and Economic and Financial Learning Center, many Filipinos have been educated already about basic financial activities such as spending, saving and investing. However, the leadership of BSP believes that financial knowledge should be imparted to the public as early as possible in their lives. They should be taught these lessons in school, while they are still developing “money habits.”

SPEAKING

The BSP is already doing this through a partnership with O ut the Department of Education By Ignacio Bunye (DepEd). The two government institutions have come up with a financial education program, which incorporates to the elementary curriculum lessons on money management and basic economics. Last week, the BSP and DepEd also released a joint message in celebration of the National Savings Consciousness Week. This was published in newspapers, posted in social media, and was read aloud to all public and private elementary and secondary schools during the flag ceremony. The message served as a reminder to the children about the importance of saving. It told the students not to spend all the money they receive. Instead, they should keep a portion of it so that they have money to spend in the future, if ever they need or want to buy something. BSP Gov. Tetangco and DepEd Sec. Bro. Armin Luistro bunye/PAGE 7

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Hurst... from page 6

Can we ever start becoming genuinely honest and humble in our hearts? Yes, that’s the great news! God the Son humiliated Himself by becoming a human being to die and pay the penalty for our sinful pride which separates us from God. But He also will set us free from the power of our sinful pride. Jesus Christ will forgive you right now-if you ask Him. Then He will also give you His power and love, so you can start changing to become the truly humble, honest, and successful person He created you to be. Just Think a Minute.

Agcopra... from page 6

richer and more fulfilling life. Do it now! ---- (Dr. Adonis Agcopra, MBA, CIS, RFC® is with the IARFC and is portfolio director of AFIC Meridian Consultants. URL: www. aficfinancialconsultants. c o m . E m a i l : aficfinancialconsultants@ outlook.com.)

Cimagala... from page 6

things that simply come from purely human criteria arrived at through certain consensus. In the effort to correct this anomaly, we need to learn how to explain, with gift of tongues, the biblical basis of marriage, connecting it with what our own reason can actually and easily discover. Our problem now is that many people consider the Bible as remote, if not completely irrelevant and just a trouble-maker. We have to correct that by making an effort to meditate more deeply on God’s word, knowing that it is a living word that will never become obsolete, but rather will always be relevant to us in our varied situations. As Po p e B e n e d i c t’s Verbum Domini puts it, we

have to ask: What does the Bible say about a particular issue, what is it saying to me now, what is it trying to say to all of us now? From there, we can use all the human sciences and knowledge to explain why marriage is between one man and one woman, why it is indissoluble until death, why spouses have to live chastity just like anybody else but according to one’s state in life? We have to explain why healthy marriages lead to healthy families that in turn lead to healthy societies and a healthy world. I’m happy to know that certain groups are into busy advocacy for healthy marriages. I can cite the Beyond-I-do group as one of them. May more groups of this type come out. There’s a great need for them, even if the demand may still not be felt. But with the challenges of the times, I’m sure many people will realize the value of these groups.

Bunye...

Opinion

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BusinessWeek M I N DA N AO

July 7-13, 2013

Philippine Style! Do You Want to Dance Now?

urther a recent column by former Ambassador and now Dean on International Studies at the Lyceum Rey Arcillas Ph.D. as follows; As discovered recently by Rappler, the Commission on Audit (COA) has reported that Mr. Robert Vergara of GSIS last year received P16.36 million in salaries and allowances (almost double the P8.32 million he received in 2011) broken down as follows: P9.65 million in basic salaries for 15 months; P4.97 million in “bonuses, incentives and benefits”; P1.684 million allowances; P7,500 personal economic relief allowance (he needs this?!), and P51,000 listed only as “Others. ”GSIS treatment of remittances of premiums paid by poor government employees suffers the comparison, don’t you think? This guy is compensated at approximately Php 50,000.00 PER DAY by the Philippine Government whose agency he administers has beneficiaries crying out for justice and proper compensation. Now tell me there is nothing wrong here? We are fast approaching the fourth SONA and what can we expect with “newsbreaks” such like the MWSS passing on their corporate income tax to the consumers to the tune of some Php 15B. The Filipino consumer has been duped and is continuing to be duped! We just finished the election with close to 250 candidates winning the election with graft and corruption cases pending least the convicted criminals now in office as well. We have our Comelec commissioner chair that is able to violate the automated election law on almost all counts and gets away with it in broad daylight. In a TV forum on climate change, the guests together with government representatives from the executive all agree on the deterioration of mother earth and yet are still in the planning stage on how to strategize in saving it. Meantime we watch in dismay the turtle pace legal process

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SUPER

of our judiciary in resolving murder cases sensationalized B randing with the brutal murder of media By Harry Tambuatco men and women. It is not enough public opinion is overwhelmingly against its culprits and yet he lavishes in a private cell under the protection of the law free with food and the comforts his money can buy him. This must be justice ... Philippine style! Are you ready to dance now? In a country where the citizens are predominantly Catholic, a population control law is subject for deliberation with no less the Court Supreme after the president signed it into law with the gargantuan pharmaceutical industry successfully lobbying congress for its approval. It is not enough we are at the process of cessation abandoning our rights or ownership to Sabah (rich with oil reserves) condemning the Sultan claimant owner who exercised his right to real property. We also have the elusive peace negotiations in Mindanao ravaged by war over decades to be dictated by Malaysia who if I am not mistaken is not the Philippines. Let us not forget the other foreign country intermediaries. There is effort to save a drug mule convicted of death by the Chinese who obviously committed crimes against their state. Somebody please tell me... this is all but natural, ordinary and average for a country whose poor is sustaining if not getting worse. Don’t we need a leader?

from page 6

also offered the children two options in saving. First, they can use an old box or can as a coin bank, which they have to keep in a safe place. Or, they can ask their parents to open a bank savings account under their name. Saving in banks is more advisable as the money is not only kept in a safer place, but is also earning through interest. To inspire the kids further, they also reminded the children about the success of the “Tulong Barya para sa Eskwela” campaign, which did not only teach children to value coins but also raised funds for the building of new classrooms. Through efforts like these, the BSP is able to inch closer to its objective of making each Filipino a productive and responsible participant in the country’s economy. When this finally happens, then the real celebration begins. Note: My book, Central Banking for Every Juan and Maria is now available in main branches of Fully Booked, Power Books, National Book Store, and the University of the Philippines Press.

Earning income gets a little harder for the street vendors By Remee Monique O. Espiritu

What can be considered another massive blow to street vendors to their way of earning income would be Executive Order (EO) No. 001-2013. An order that’s more popularly known as to “temporarily suspend the operation of the Night Café”, issued by Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Oscar Moreno.

The said ordinance is effective starting July 5, 2013. Task Force Hapsay Café is in charge of patrolling the Divisoria area for any vendors still insisting on putting up their stalls there. Atty. Hilario Roy Raagas is the Chairman of said Task Force with Atty. Jose Edgardo Y. Uy as the Vice Chairman, and is also Chairman for Task Force Hapsay Dalan in the market areas of Cagayan de Oro. Street vendors occupy the roads of Tirso Neri and RN Abejuela every Friday and Saturday night since 2004, selling their goods which are but is not limited to clothing items, accessories, footwear, food and whatnot.

Blocking off the said roads and causing huge traffic issues and some people even fall victim to petty theft by pickpockets if they’re not careful. Maria, a vendor of shoes, claims that she can no longer let one of her children continue schooling because of the adverse effects the EO has on her business. On the possibility that Night Café will be transferred somewhere else, she said “Kung ipabalhin gani, balhin na dayun. (If it’s going to be transferred, transfer it immediately.)” to her, this was her only source of income to be able to feed her family and send her children to school.

“Maayo unta kung tagaan tag bugas kada adlaw (It’d be better if they’d give us rice every day).” says John Mar Jimenez, vendor of tribal handmade accessories. Although Night Café is not the only place where he sells his stuff, he still thinks that it’s a big help to their business. The team leader for Hapsay Dalan in Divisoria, William Adecer, shares his sympathies to the vendors as he understands that they’re just finding ways to earn for them to be able to eat. He says the suspension is for the meantime because the administration will find ways on where to place these vendors. “Kung mo sukol sila, mo dako ra ilang problema (If they fight back, they’re just creating bigger problems).” he says. Hopefully Mayor Moreno does have something better in store for these vendors to be able to still earn a living, and for these vendors to maybe be a little patient for the meantime, and not solve problems with another problem.

WAITING GAME. Plastic chairs and tables pile at a park in Divisoria, Cagayan de Oro on Friday, July 5 as a group of stall owners tried to defy the order of newly-elected Mayor Oscar Moreno suspending the ” night café operations” at the city’s premier commercial center. The vendors failed after the police and City Hall officers held their ground and threaten to arrest violators. MindaNews photo by Froilan Gallardo

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The Night Stalker:

Cagayan de Oro’s first international hotel chain opens July 19 Cagayan de Oro’s first international hotel chain is scheduled to open this month. Tune Hotels Cagayan de Oro opens its 159 guest rooms on July 19 at its brand new 11-storey hotel in its trademark red-andwhite motif in the heart of the Lapasan Central Business District. “We’re going to open another three hotels in the Philippines by the end of this year,” Red Planet Hotels CEO Tim Hansing said in a statement. “We will have branches in Quezon City, Cagayan de Oro City and Davao City. We are expecting to have a total of 10 properties in the Philippines by 2014.” There are four Tune Hotels currently in operation in the Philippines, with its fifth in Cagayan de Oro next in line. Other Tune hotels slated to open in the Philippines following Cagayan de Oro include Ortigas, Aseana City and Ayala. Located in Cagayan de Oro’s fastest growing central business district, Tune Hotel Cagayan de Oro is a welcome addition to the city’s booming air passenger traffic which grew to a robust 1.622 million in 2012 from the previous year. The recent opening of the new Laguindingan

Airport is also expected to further increase the number of flights especially by domestic low cost carriers which grew 6.12 percent in 2012 to 15,540 from 2011, data from the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) Area IX office shows. The Cagayan de OroMisamis Oriental cluster continues to be the most favored by foreign tourists in Northern Mindanao for 2012. Data from the Department of Tourism (DOT) Region 10 shows that 45,244 or 74 percent of total foreign tourist arrivals visited the Cagayan de Oro-Misamis Oriental last year. Tune Hotels aims to establish its niche market in the booming international and local economy/budget travelers. Although the national government is taking its time to open up additional access points to the country via regional airports in pursuit of its 10 million tourist arrivals target, Red Planet Hotels Philippines Corporation is looking ahead to double the number of its Tune Hotels to ten by the end of the year to capitalize on the domestic travel boom. “Tune Hotel CDO is also the first Tune Hotel in the Philippines to have a function room for 20-30 persons for meetings and

social gatherings,” said Carlo C. Cruz, Director of Sales and Marketing, Ph i l ippi ne s . “We w i l l also have a restaurant at the ground floor to serve breakfast and provide the food and beverage for meetings and events.” Red Planet Hotels is the major franchisee of the Tune Hotel brand across South-East Asia. Tune Hotel’s core value proposition is a great night’s sleep at a budget-friendly price. Though affordably priced, the strategically located hotels provide housekeeping ser vices, electronic keycard access into ro oms, extensive CCTV systems, and no access into the main lobby without a keycard past midnight. All Tune Hotels boast of Five Brand Essentials – 5-Star Quality Beds, Power Shower, Central and Convenient Location, 24-Hour Security and Clean Environment. Red Planet Hotels Phils. Corp. is a subsidiary of Red Planet Hotels Limited (RPHL), a regional hotel investment company focused on Asia’s emerging markets which operates its own hotels under a franchise agreement with Tune Hotels Limited. The firm has acquired a 16.05- percent stake in Tune Hotels as both

The unfinished TUNE Hotel

companies sought to grow the booming low cost hotel brand. Established in 2007, there are now 24 Tune Hotels operating 3,859 rooms globally in the United Kingdom, Malaysia,

Indonesia, Thailand, Philippines, India, Japan and soon in China and Korea. For inquiries and reser vations, please call (+632) 519-0888 or

e-mail us at philippines@ tunereservations.com. Get to know more about Tune Hotels and Red Planet Hotels Limited by visiting www.tunehotels.com or www.redplanethotels.com.

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Direct Importer of All Kinds of Japanese Surplus QUALITY and AFFORDABLE PRICE

Upon extra-judicial petition for sale under ACT 3135 as amended, filed by HOME DEVELOPMENT MUTUAL FUND or PAG-IBIG FUND, Mortgagee, with office address at J.R. Borja Street, Cagayan de Oro City, against LEOCARDI E. IGARAN, Mortgagor, married to LORMA P. IGARAN, with postal address at Block 5, Lot 16, Villa Mila Subdivision, Aplaya Jasaan, Misamis Oriental, to satisfy the mortgaged indebtedness which as of September 12, 2012 amounts to THREE HUNDRED FORTY TWO THOUSAND EIGHTY THREE PESOS & 40/100 ( P 342,083.40) inclusive of interest and penalty charges, attorney’s fees equivalent to ten (10%) percent of the total indebtedness plus the foreclosure expenses, the undersigned or his duly authorized deputy will sell at public auction on July 18, 2013, at 10:00 a.m. or soon thereafter at the main entrance of the Hall of Justice, Regional Trial Court, Branch 25, Arch. Hayes Street, Cagayan de Oro City, to the highest bidder, for CASH and in Philippine Currency the following property described below, to wit :

M I N DA N AO

ZAINZAID TRADING

OFFICE OF THE PROVINCIAL SHERIFF SECOND NOTICE OF EXTRA-JUDICIAL SALE EJF File No. 2013-015

“A PARCEL OF LAND ( Lot 16, Block 5, Psd-10-023903 being a portion of Lot 5225 Cad-367 Jasaan Cad) situated in the Bo. Of Aplaya , Mun. of Jasaan Prov. Of Mis. Or., Island of Mindanao . Bounded on the SE., along line 5-1 by Road Lot 5, (6.00 m. wide) on the SW., along line 1-2 by Lot 15, on the SW., along line 2-3 by Lot 10., on the NW., along line 3-4 by Lot 11, on the NE., along line 4-5 by Lot 17, all of Block 5, of the subd. plan Psd-10-023903. Containing an area of EIGHTY TWO (82) square meters, more or less, and all other improvements existing thereon, registered in the name of LEOCARDI E. IGARAN, married to LORMA P. IGARAN.’’ All sealed bids must be submitted to the undersigned on the above stated time and date. In the event the public auction should not take place on the above date stated, it shall be on the next working day without further notice. Prospective buyers/bidders may investigate for themselves the title of the herein described property and encumbrances thereon, if any there be. Cagayan de Oro City, June 6 , 2013.

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KIMBERLITE PAWNSHOP MALAYBALAY BRANCH

Kimberlite Pawnshop will be having an AUCTION SALE on all items that expired on May 2013 AUCTION DATE: JULY 18, 2013 Estrada Bldg., Fortich-Don Carlos Sts., Malaybalay City, Bukidnon

CDO MAIN BRANCH P & J Lim Bldg., Tiano Brothers Kalambagohan Sts., Tel. # (08822) 727-829 * Telefax # (088) 856-1947

DIVISORIA BRANCH Atty. Erasmo B. Damasing Bldg., #61 Don A. Velez St., Cagayan de Oro City Tel. # (088) 857-3631

CAMIGUIN BRANCH B. Aranas St., Poblacion, Mambajao, Camiguin Tel. # (088) 387-0491

LAPASAN BRANCH Lapasan Hi-way, Cagayan de Oro City Tel. # (088) 231-6739

CORRALES BRANCH Corrales Ave., Cagayan de Oro City

CARMEN BRANCH Vamenta Blvd.,Cagayan de Oro City Tel. # (088) 231-2011

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Pushes... from page 5

starting September 2013 in Manila. Manila City Ordinance 8282, once implemented, will ban the use of plastic bags for dry goods and regulate their use for wet goods, and altogether bans polystyrene (Styrofoam) as container for food, produce and other products. This ban is both a climate change mitigation measure and a disaster risk reduction response as it intends ultimate phase out of all kinds of plastic bags. Aside from this, it also eases discards collection mechanisms and recycling, and supports LGUs in their waste management schemes as mandated by R.A. 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000. “ The ordinance will a l s o pro h i bit bu s i n e s s establishments from offering, selling, or using plastic bags as primary or secondary packaging for dry goods, and forbids barangay collection of discarded plastics unless these are pre-cleaned and dried, according to one of the decree’s sponsors Councilor Numero Lim. He added that it was only about time that the city of Manila enforced a ban on the distribution and use of plastic bags “to stop the nonchalant disposal of these materials and protect what remains of our environment”. Waste Prevention Waste audits conducted

by eco-groups in 2006, 2010 and 2011 revealed plastic products, particularly plastic bags, were the highest garbage contributor in terms of volume in Manila Bay and Laguna Lake. Discards survey conducted by the same group in 2006 and 2010 showed plastic bags comprising 51.4 and 27.7 percent, respectively, of the detritus in Manila Bay. At present, the group counted at least 90 LGUs all over the country that have similar ordinances in place banning or regulating plastic bags, with several localities following suit before the end of the year. According to EcoWaste Coalition’s Task Force Head on Plastics and Mother Earth Foundation member Sonie Mendoza, plastic bags were the embodiment of an antiquated, throw-away mentality that needs to be addressed. “ Through our action today, we ask the national government to enact laws and policies that will reinforce the initiatives of visionary LGUs and eventually wean us from plastic bags,” Mendoza said. “By outlawing the use of plastic bags and other nonecologically sound packaging materials, we substantially reduce our waste generation,” she added. She further explained that this will cut waste management costs and lessen related environmental risks such as flooding and marine pollution. “Recycling plastic bags

Republic of the Philippines REGIONAL TRIAL COURT OF MISAMIS ORIENTAL 10th Judicial Region Cagayan de Oro City Branch 22 OFFICE OF THE PROVINCIAL SHERIFF SHERIFF’S NOTICE OF SALE File No. 2013-156 Upon Extra-Judicial petition for sale under Act 3135 as amended filed by BDO UNIBANK, INC., mortgagee, with principal office address at 10th Floor , BDO Corporate Center, 7899 Makati Avenue corner H.V. dela Costa Street, Makati City, Metro Manila against SPS. CARLOS AND LIZ MARIE YCARO, mortgagor/s, of legal age , Filipino/s with postal address at (1) Purok 8 Upper Sugod, Valencia City, Bukidnon, (2) Lot 1063-C-2-B-14 & 16 Unnamed Road Lot, Brgy. Cabangahan, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon, (3) Lot 3 Fortich Street, Brgy. Sumpong, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon, (4) Lot 6592-A-9-G & 6592-B-1 Iponan, Cagayan de Oro City, (5) c/o Provincial Government of Bukidnon, Malaybalay City, Bukidnon, (6) c/o Blue Hills Marketing, Purok 8, Upper Sugod, Valencia City, Bukidnon, (7) c/o Sunlife Financials, Valencia City, Bukidnon, to satisfy the mortgaged indebtedness which was as of December 5, 2012 amounts to FOUR MILLION ONE HUNDRED TWENTY FOUR THOUSAND NINE HUNDRED TEN PESOS AND 01/100 (P 4, 124,910.01 ) Philippine Currency including interest, penalty charges excluding attorney’s fees and expenses of foreclosure, the undersigned sheriff will sell at public auction on August 12, 2013, at 10:00 o’clock in the morning or soon thereafter at the RTC Branch 22 office, Arch Hayes St., Cagayan de Oro City, to the highest bidder, for CASH and in Philippine Currency, the herein described property and all improvements thereon to wit: TRANSFER CERTIFICATE OF TITLE NO. T-63026 A PARCEL OF LAND (Lot 6592-A-9-G, Psd-10-001694, being a portion of Lot 6592-A-9, Psd-10-001600) situated in the Barrio of Iponan, City of Cagayan de Oro , Island of Mindanao. Containing an area of THREE HUNDRED NINETEEN (319) SQUARE METERS more or less. TRANSFER CERTIFICATE OF TITLE NO. T-150311 A PARCEL OF LAND (Lot 6592-B-1, Psd-104305-019395, being a portion of Lot 6592-B, (LRC) Psd-247490) situated in the Barrio of Iponan , City of Cagayan de Oro, Island of Mindanao. Containing an area of FIVE HUNDRED (500) SQUARE METERS more or less. Prospective buyers/bidders may investigate for themselves the title of the herein described property and encumbrances thereon, if any there be. All sealed bids must be submitted to the undersigned on the above stated time and date. In the event the public auction should not take place on the said date, it shall be on the next working day without further notice. Cagayan de Oro City, June 19, 2013. FOR THE PROVINCIAL EX-OFFICIO SHERIFF:

BWM : July 1, 8 & 15 , 2013

(Sgd.)JOEL LYDVEL G. PAKINO Sheriff IV

does not necessarily reduce wastes as it just manages the plastic bags that have already been created,” Mendoza said. “Recycled plastics still make its way back to the consumers’ buy-use-dispose loop, thus, adding more plastics in the environment. What we need to do is to avoid its usage in the first place,” she added. The ban of the use of plastic bags will help boost the demand for locally-made bayongs and cloth bags, which supports local cottage industries and creates more employment and business opportunities in both urban and rural areas. The group suggested that because they were made of raw materials, they are readily available all over the country. It is also a good time for LGUs and businesses to support and invest in the production of bayongs and cloth bags. (PNA)

Bukidnon... from page 5

Calingasan, the presiding officer, also heads two committees – the committee on beautification and tourism, which was previously held by Dinlayan, and the special oversight committee (good governance, developmental research, plans and programs; and enforcement of laws and ordinances). Board member Gordon Torres, whose family runs a college, chairs the committee on e du c at i on a n d t h e committee on justice and human rights and peace and order. B r o a d c a s t e r R e n at o Centillas now chairs the c om m itt e e on p ov e r t y alleviation and social reform. The other newcomer, former Malaybalay City councillor Melchor Maramara, chairs the committee on engineering

and public works. Federation of Association of Barangay C ouncils president Roelito Gawilan chairs the committee on b arangay and lo c a l government. In d i g e n ou s p e op l e’s mandatory representative Datu Magdalino Pandian retains the chairmanship for the committee on indigenous cultural communities and indigenous peoples. Sangguniang Kabataan fe d e r at i on chai r R ai z a Angelique Porminal chairs the committee on youth and sports development. Aside from the committees, the inaugural session also discussed changes on internal rules. The b oard memb ers decided to move the regular session from Wednesday to Monday, at 1:30 p.m. The morning is open for committee hearings and question hour with guests. They also ruled that the English and the Binukid versions of “Bukidnon My Home,” the provincial hymn, will come after the singing of the Lupang Hinirang every session. They will also recite the provincial board members’ oath. (Walter I. Balane/MindaNews)

to also relay to their fellow farmers, as well the different farming technologies that they have witnessed firsthand at the station. With the forum at hand, the department is expectant that more farmers will be able to propel their existing farm practices and in due course, would also augment their livelihood and income amid numerous farming challenges. (Joanne L. Olson, DA-10)

Reliable... from page 4

security and peace of mind. And nothing gives us this better than the Good Choice, Sun Cellular. For more information, visit www.suncellular.com. phor Facebook pagewww. facebook.com/suncellularph. Follow @suncelldeals on Twitter.

Forum... from page 2

Maghanoy, Jr. explained that the department through the station will carry on in conducting and exhibiting

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES REGIONAL TRIAL COURT 10TH JUDICIAL REGION BRANCH 28 MAMBAJAO, CAMIGUIN IN RE: Petition for Re-Issuance of Owner’s Copy of Title in lieu of one already lost,

MISC. CASE NO. 126

JEAN CARMELITA DELA RIARTE MABELIN Petitioner x-----------------------------------------------------------/ ORDER Petitioner, Jean Carmelita Dela Riarte Mabelin, of legal age, Filipino, married and resident of Catarman, Camiguin, thru counsel, states that she bought a parcel of situated at Binaliwan, Mahinog, Camiguin denominated as Lot No. 1908-B covered by Transfer Certificate of Title No. T-1710 in the name of Macaria dela Riarte, duly registered in the Office of the Registered of Deeds of Camiguin. That the owner’s duplicate copy of the TCT of the aforesaid parcel of land was in the possession of his uncle Teodoro dele Riarte who was the designated Administrator of the dela Riarte properties. Sometimes last January 2011 his uncle Teodoro went to Cebu City to visit some relatives. Normally his uncle carries with him all his important documents wherever he goes for he is alone in his house in Mahinog. Unfortunately he suffered a stroke while in Cebu and he died as a result thereof last January 12, 2011. The aforementioned Owner’s duplicate of the said parcel of land was in his custody during that time and the same cannot be found despite exhaustive search. That there exist no deed or instrument affecting the said property have been presented by anyone else for registration in the Register of Deeds It is the main thrust of the petition that after hearing the Owner’s Duplicate of the aforesaid Transfer Certificate of Title which was lost be declared null and void and a new Owner’s Duplicate copy be issued in lieu thereof under the same terms and conditions as contained in the original on file. The petition being sufficient in form and substance is hereby set for hearing on August 21, 2013 in this Court’s Session Hall, to start at 8:30 o’clock in the morning. Let copy of the petition together with all its annexes and of this Order be furnished The Register of Deeds at Mambajao, Camiguin; The Administrator, Land Registration Authority at Quezon City; and Provincial Prosecutor of Camiguin. The Process Server of this Court is directed to post copies of Order in the 1.)Bulletin Board-Public Market, Mahinog, Camiguin; 2.) Bulletin Board- Municipal Hall, Mahinog, Camiguin; 3.) Bulletin Board-Provincial Capitol, Mambajao, Camiguin; and 4.) Bulletin Board- this Court. Let copy of this Order be published at petitioner’s expense once a week for three consecutive weeks prior to the date of hearing in any newspaper of general circulation in the Province of Camiguin. Any person or entity whose interests might be adversely affected by this proceeding may file written opposition within a reasonable time prior to the date of hearing and appear personally during the hearing to substantiate the same. SO ORDERED. Done at Mambajao, Camiguin, this 18th day of June 2013. (Sgd.) RUSTICO D. PADERANGA Judge BWM: July 1, 8 & 15, 2013

researches of productive, economical and sustainable farming technologies for the cultivators of land. Recognizing the farmers’ long and enduring experience and years in farming, he also encouraged them to consider in bringing and applying the available technologies found in the station that might be suitable in their respective farmlands. Furthermore, he pushed for the farmers in attendance

Republic of the Philippines REGIONAL TRIAL COURT OF LANAO DEL NORTE 12TH Judicial Region BRANCH 07 Tubod, Lanao del Norte IN RE: PETITION FOR PET. for NOT. COM. NO. 027-07-2013 APPOINTMENT AS NOTARY PUBLIC FOR AND IN THE PROVINCE OF LANAO DEL NORTE ELEUTERIO M. OBIAL, JR., Petitioner, X - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- - - - - - - - /

NOTICE OF HEARING NOTICE is hereby given that a summary hearing on the petition for notarial commission of Atty. Eleuterio M. Obial, Jr. shall be on August 16, 2013 at 8:30 in the morning at RTC, Branch 07, Tubod, Lanao del Norte. Any person who has any cause or reason to object to the grant of the petition may file a verified written opposition thereto, received by the undersigned before the date of the summary hearing.

(Sgd.) DENNIS P. VICOY Acting Presiding Judge

BWM: July 8, 15 & 22, 2013

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July 7-13, 2013

Flooding... from page 1

local government units ( LG Us ) re g ard i ng t h i s assessment so they could start drawing already their disaster management plans,” Paye said in a statement. The official urged the LGUs with identified “no habitation zones” to verify them and subject them to regular monitoring. In this city, MGB-12 listed barangays Baluan, Baluyan, Bula, Calumpang, Siguel, Lagao and Sinawal as high risk to flooding. It listed 38 barangays in Cotabato City as high risk to flooding. In South Cotabato, the list included 13 barangays in Banga town; 11 in Koronadal City; 11 in Norala; nine in Surallah; seven in Tantangan; three in Lake Sebu; three in Tampakan; three in Tupi; two in Sto. Niño; and, one in T’boli. In Sar angani, s e ven villages were considered as flood-prone in Maitum; five in Kiamba; four in Alabel; three in Glan; and one each in Maasim and Malapatan. The municipality of Pikit is considered the most flood-prone area in North Cotabato with 30 barangays listed as high risk followed by Midsayap and Kabacan with 17 each; Libungan with 14; M’lang with 13; Carmen and Pigcawayan with 11; Tulunan with seven; Alamada and Matalam with six each; Aleosan with four; and, President Roxas with one. I n S u l t a n Ku d a r a t , Lambayong town topped the list with 14 barangays, followed by Palimbang with 10; Lebak and Lutayan with nine; Bagumbayan with eight; Isulan with seven; Senator Ninoy Aquino with six; Esperanza with four; Columbio with three; and Kalamansig with one. Paye warned the ongoing rainy season might extend until November due to the warm air of southwest monsoon hovering over the country. He said such weather condition induces cloudy sk i e s t hat cou l d br i ng moderate to heavy rains and thunderstorm. “It may trigger flash floods in the low-lying areas and landslide in hilly to mountainous terrains. Rains that persist for hours could cause floods and landslides,” he noted. He urged residents to monitor flood build-up in flat terrain along or near river banks and landslide built-up

in mountainous terrains. “If danger is eminent, evacuation to a safer ground is recommended for individuals or groups,” Paye said. (PNA)

Sendong... from page 1

victims of tropical storm Sendong that ravaged the city on December 17, 2011. “The 5.3 hectare resettlement site located in Barangay Lumbia is aptly called Xavier Ecoville and has been envisioned to be an ecologically and economically progressive, God-centered village inhabited by residents who care for one another,” Fr. Roberto C. Yap, Xavier University president, said. Two primary components have been put in place in the resettlement agenda of Xavier Ecoville: Physical development and community development. “Like we always say, we are not just building houses, we are building a community, s o thes e components are essential,” Fr. Yap said. The physical development component is in-charge of preparing the permanent site for resettlement of the b enef iciaries while the community development component takes charge of values formation, governance, h e a lt h , l ive l i h o o d an d educational competencies. Xavier Ecoville constructed 568 permanent shelters. Each has a lot area of 50 sq. m. and a floor area of 21.40 sq. m. All units have lofts, which can be used as sleeping area with comfort rooms, sized at 1.1 x 1.4 meters. Dirty kitchens are located outside of the units. Other community facilities under the physical development component are Multi-purpose Hall, a 200-seater center for general assemblies and trainings; Xavier Ecoville-JCI Macajalar 24K Children’s Study Center, a 30-seater study area with educational facilities; Toy Library with playground on its façade; St. Francis Xavier Chapel to hold masses and religious activities; Livelihood Center to house the operations of Xavier Ecoville Multipurpose Cooperatives; and Community Center, home to market stalls, jeepney drop-off terminal. “Community development forms an integral part of XULRP efforts at Xavier Ecoville. With partner beneficiaries coming from different areas and cultures, community building mechanisms have to be in place to facilitate a cohesive, progressive and values-oriented community.

The overarching idea is to address immediate needs while capacitating partner beneficiaries to become a self-sufficient and selfgoverning community,” said Roel Ravenera, chairman, XU-LRP. Among the main benefactors of the project are Habitat for Humanity, San Miguel Foundation, Union Bank, Ladies Association of Parish in Cebu, Sacred Heart of Cebu, Rotary Club, STEAG, Maybank, JCI and Philippine Toy Libraries. As of February, this year, some P29.87 million pesos have been accounted for as “receipted cash donations” by XU-LRP. X av i e r E c ov i l l e , a n eco-friendly resettlement community for tropical storm Sendong survivors whose homes have been totally washed out and whose former addresses have now been declared as no-build zones, is a neighborhood to be further developed using environmentally-sustainable practices. “Malipayon jud ko diri; kay katong una (temporary settlement area) lahi ra jud (I’m happy staying here; far better compared to the first one,” Sheila Oposa, one of the beneficiaries, said. “Makatulog ko ug sakto diri. Di na ko maghuna-huna kay wala na may baha (I can sleep tight here. I don’t have to worry because there’s no flooding here,” Teresa Padalo, another Sendong survivor, said. Under the community development component, the College of Medicine and College of Nursing have provided the survivors with psycho-therapy to ease them from the tragic experience when Typhoon Sendong wreaked havoc to their community in 2011. Some 3,000 people were killed while 1,000 others went missing in Cagayan de Oro and Iligan, two of the areas badly hit by Sendong. “This is a moment to celebrate victory of humanity,” Mayor Oscar Moreno, who was invited to grace the affair, said. He acknowledged the work of Xavier University, saying, “Xavier University has set a very high standard and is standing out as one of the best organizers,” Mayor Moreno said. He assured Xavier Ecoville community that despite the completion of the physical component, the city government will not leave them. “It takes a village to build

a village,” Kin Lichauco of San Miguel Foundation, one of the sponsors, said. “We couldn’t be prouder. This (resettlement site) is one of the best and complete,” she added. A “Festival of Hope” was prepared for the daylong celebration dubbed as “Dayun, Padayun” (Pushed Through, To Continue). After the Eucharistic celebration and ceremonial blessing, a village parade followed. A ceremonial landscaping followed the opening program and later in the afternoon, the following activities were lined-up: Turnover and blessing of the Xavier Ecoville Livelihood Center, MOA-signing with Maybank, ReCreated Eco Art activity, Art Attack, photo booth, freedom wall, Chalk Art, Origami Making, Family Bingo, Family Fun Games. In the evening, a “Kulturock” band showdown will showcase the celebration with live contemporar y artistic performances, sky lanterns and firework display.

Casuals... from page 1

elections have to leave city hall now or, at least, step aside. Moreno, former provincial governor of the Province of Misamis Oriental, which Cagayan de Oro is part of, defeated incumbent city mayor Vicente Emano in the last May 13 elections. The city has 20 elected officials, 20 co-terminus personnel, 2,481 permanent employees, three temporary staff, 424 casual employees and 184 with JOs, according to Emmanuel P. Edrote, city personnel officer. He s aid t here is no certainty on the status of casuals and those on JOs until after the inquiry by the new administration is complete. Road and Transportation Ad m i n ist r at i on ( RTA ) , which is vital to the new administration’s program “Hapsay Dalan” (orderly roads) employs 201 casuals with only eight regular employees. Except for the four casuals currently working with the city hospital, the JR Borja Hospital, no casuals and JOs have been called to report as of Wednesday, July 3, according to Edrote. Moreno cited peculiarity of the jobs they handle as the reason for the excuse. Moreno said this is not the time for them anymore. “Katong dili gusto mag trabaho, pag saba’ lang (those who do not want to serve

under me, just make noise for me to know),” Mayor Moreno said. ore no s ai d he f u l ly understands that those who accepted the work for the elections need to support themselves and their families, but they have already become “incompatible” to serve the people with him and have to vacate city hall. “This is not the place for you anymore,” he said. “Pahawa na (go ahead and leave),” Mayor Moreno told city hall employees during the early Monday flag-raising ceremony, referring to those who do not intend to work with him in doing public service to Kagay-anons. The streamlining that should be expected, Moreno said, is predicated on one thing – “Sebisyo sa Katawhan” (public service). The issue, he said, is not that they have supported his political foes. “I can live even with my worst enemies,” the new mayor said. “But the issue is public service,” and he found those who went against his political agenda during the elections to be “incompatible already.” On the other hand, he encourages those who are willing to support his political vision and work with him to give out their best, saying, “I will make you succeed in serving the people. Let us work together and make the people of Cagayan de Oro be proud of us,” he said. “I will make you proud you work with Cagayan de Oro City Hall,” Moreno reiterated. Mo r e n o s a i d h e i s bracing himself for the huge expectations that both allies and foes have on him. “I do not expect the City Council to knell before me,” Moreno said, referring to the members of the majority of the City Council who are not with his party during the last May 13 elections. “For the first time, they (councilors) will now realize the beauty of independence,” Mayor Moreno said. Aside from the family members of Mayor Moreno, invited to his first flagraising ceremony were former Senate president Nene Pimentel, S econd District Representative Rufus Rodriguez, Representative Ma x i m o R o d r i g u e z o f Abamin partylist, and some city councillors and barangay officials. (Cheng Ordoñez)

Closure... from page 1

relaxation too since massage services by blind masseurs had been provided thereat.

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YO U R LO C AL B U SINESS PAPER

But the new leadership sees deteriorations in the operation of food kiosks, disorderly conduct of some vendors and the worsening traffic situation caused by the closure of the streets to give way to the night café and market. Jose Edgardo Uy, overseer of Hapsay Dalan project of Mayor Oca Moreno, identified two major aspects that led to the decision to close the night market: Traffic congestion and poor sanitation. Uy said Plaza Divisoria is supposedly for family and children. “But, it is turning into a haven for juvenile delinquency, unsanitary food and traffic and human disorder,” he said. Uy said they have to reconceptualize and rethink on the true value gained from operating the night café and market, which, as of late, “ukay-ukay” (used clothing, shoes) had been allowed to occupy many portions of the plaza. Some 2,000 stalls will not be seen anymore at the plaza, which people consider as economic displacement on the one hand, but orderly roads and plaza for family, on the other. “They (stall holders) will manage to find their places in the city’s business and economy, because they have to. They should not expect it (night café/market) to be back soon,” Uy said, hinting the closure can be permanent. “If we transfer them to another place, we will merely be transferring the same problem,” Uy said. The night market has been dubbed as tourism frontier, the promised marriage of commerce and culture, hawker stalls, street food, cheap bargain items, barbeque in the city center and more, but Uy said even the massage services had become distasteful for family members because people remove their shirts when having the service and it gives a bad impression to tourists and children who go there with their families. “We already talked to them (blind masseurs). We assured them that they will be given another place where they can perform their services to earn a living,” said Uy. While its authors claim that great profit and progress for the people of Cagayan de Oro were behind the night café and market, the new administration sees other things – social ills, problems in sanitation, crime and traffic congestion. “Here’s a local government that sees the filth that loiter Plaza Divisoria, and the price for the profit gain from its operation won’t pave the way for it to continue,” an observer said. Some kagay-anons, when asked about its closure have two sides to say – they’ll sure miss it, but it cannot continue inviting more problems, criminals, roaches and rats, alike. (Cheng Ordoñez)

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July 10, 2013

Globe extends free unlimited Viber service to prepaid subscribers Globe Telecom beefs up its flagship unlimited call and text promo for prepaid subscribers by adding free unlimited Viber Chat for the same price. Globe Prepaid GoUNLI25 is a bundled prepaid offer with unlimited texts and unlimited calls to Globe/TM plus unlimited Viber Chat services without the need for Wi-Fi or additional data charges. Available to Globe Prepaid subscribers for only P25 valid for 1 day, GoUNLI25 allows subscribers to connect with contacts in any Globe network as well as with other users subscribed to other networks both in the Philippines and abroad, for as long as these contacts have Viber accounts. Viber is a mobile application that allows users to call, text, and send photos to each other, wherever they are in the world. With Viber, no registration, alias, or invitations are required. The app also instantly integrates with the user’s own contact list. “GoUNLI25 is a perfect offer for the youth who are always on the lookout for new ways of engaging with their social circles. Today, the youth and the prepaid market, in general, look for different ways to connect with their friends, and that means going beyond call and text,” said KD Dizon, Head

of Globe Prepaid. “With GoUNLI25, our subscribers can now use Unlimited Viber Chat on top of unlimited calls and texts to Globe and TM, all for the same affordable price of P25. With the Viber Chat connection, subscribers can get in touch with practically all networks everywhere i n t h e w or l d u s i n g Vi b e r ’s revolutionized m e s s a g i n g technolog y and exciting features. It’s totally a new mobile experience for our subscribers because they can use emoticons, pictures and group messaging to enhance the way they connect with friends so they can go lang nang go.” GoUNLI25 is also available in longer validity options such as the 3-day variant for P67, 7-day variant for P150, and 30day variant for P600. To register, subscribers can dial *143# and choose GoSAKTO. They may also register by sending GOUNLI25 to 8888. GoUNLI25 joins GoSAKTO in the telco’s roster of innovative offers and promos for its prepaid

subscriber base. Launched in February this year, GoSAKTO lets prepaid subscribers create their own prepaid promo and choose the type and number of calls, texts and data they need for the day, week, or month, based on their needs, budget, and lifestyle. The promo helped drive the acquisition of over halfa-million new Globe Prepaid subscribers in the first quarter of the year, up 32% and 71% from last year and last quarter, respectively.

Baby Company’s Diaper Deals is on! Get great deals from your favorite diaper brands and save more than P100 pesos on select diapers. Plus, win instant prizes as we give away cool gadgets like: iPad Mini, iPod Shuffle, iPod Nano and more. Just purchase P1,500 minimum singlereceipt of any diaper brand to get a prize card.

Visit Baby Company and stock up on your favorite diaper brands now 'til July 31 only. Check their website at www. babycompany.com.ph or visit their facebook and twitter page at babycompanyph and BabyCompanyPH See posters for details. Per DTI-NCR permit # 5494 series of 2013