31 August 2005
PHOTO: Indian behind bars
Suspected counterfeit drug dealer-courier Ramchand Dimalanta Dayaldas of Lubao, Pampanga stares glumly from behind bars awaiting the filing of charges for violation of RA 8203 (counterfeit medicine) and RA 9165 (Dangerous Drugs Act). Dayaldas’ case is unbailable, authorities said. Some of the medicines found by food and drugs officials and the National Bureau of Investigation agents (right photo) were labeled Alprazolan BP 250, said to be a tranquilizer like valium. (PStar Photo by Butch F. Uka) 
Indian in counterfeit drugs clamped in jail
AN Indian national and his driver, arrested here by the National Bureau of Investigation last August 20, remained in detention after it was determined that the regulated and prohibited drugs seized from them weighed more than 400 grams.
This was disclosed by Dr. Reynaldo Jacinto, chief of the Standards and Regulations Division of the Bureau of Food and Drugs (BFAD), who helped the NBI file the corresponding complaints against suspects Ramchand Dayaldas, 46, of Concepcion, Lubao, Pampanga; and his driver, Reynaldo Lozano, 41, of Guagua, Pampamga.
Among other charges, they are facing violation of Republic Act 9165 or the anti-drug law, aside from several counts for violations of Republic Act 8203 relative to sale and distribution of counterfeit medicines before the regional trial court here.
Seized from the two were 84 kinds of counterfeit medicines valued at from P2.5 to P3 million which were said to have originated from the United States, Canada, China, India, Thailand and Pakistan.
Among the items seized were ampules of valium, a restricted and regulated drug used as tranquilizer, which can be bought from accredited drug stores only with yellow prescriptions issued by physicians.
Also seized were tablets, ampules, capsules, vials and liquid medicines which are either antibiotics, anti-hypertensive and tranquilizer medicines, all imported and unregistered with the BFAD and apparently smuggled into the country.
Lawyer Jose Doloiras, NBI chief in Pangasinan, said the suspects were arrested while they were delivering counterfeit medicine to still unnamed doctors in Dagupan City who are possibly among 10 physicians listed in a supposed “blue book” seized last Aug. 5 from Glenda Verzosa, 30; and Alma Domingo, 28, suspected couriers of counterfeit medicines.
It was from the two women apparently that authorities learned of the date and time of the next delivery of counterfeit medicines so NBI agents were put on alert.
Both Verzosa and Domingo are now out on bail of P60,000 and P30,000, respectively.
At least 10 doctors from Pangasinan and two from La Union whose names were listed in the supposed “blue book” are now also under surveillance for possible involvement in the distribution and sale of counterfeit medicines.
This was disclosed by Dr. Reynaldo Jacinto, chief of the Standards and Regulations Division of the Bureau of Food and Drugs (BFAD), who helped the NBI file the corresponding complaints against suspects Ramchand Dayaldas, 46, of Concepcion, Lubao, Pampanga; and his driver, Reynaldo Lozano, 41, of Guagua, Pampamga.
Among other charges, they are facing violation of Republic Act 9165 or the anti-drug law, aside from several counts for violations of Republic Act 8203 relative to sale and distribution of counterfeit medicines before the regional trial court here.
Seized from the two were 84 kinds of counterfeit medicines valued at from P2.5 to P3 million which were said to have originated from the United States, Canada, China, India, Thailand and Pakistan.
Among the items seized were ampules of valium, a restricted and regulated drug used as tranquilizer, which can be bought from accredited drug stores only with yellow prescriptions issued by physicians.
Also seized were tablets, ampules, capsules, vials and liquid medicines which are either antibiotics, anti-hypertensive and tranquilizer medicines, all imported and unregistered with the BFAD and apparently smuggled into the country.
Lawyer Jose Doloiras, NBI chief in Pangasinan, said the suspects were arrested while they were delivering counterfeit medicine to still unnamed doctors in Dagupan City who are possibly among 10 physicians listed in a supposed “blue book” seized last Aug. 5 from Glenda Verzosa, 30; and Alma Domingo, 28, suspected couriers of counterfeit medicines.
It was from the two women apparently that authorities learned of the date and time of the next delivery of counterfeit medicines so NBI agents were put on alert.
Both Verzosa and Domingo are now out on bail of P60,000 and P30,000, respectively.
At least 10 doctors from Pangasinan and two from La Union whose names were listed in the supposed “blue book” are now also under surveillance for possible involvement in the distribution and sale of counterfeit medicines.
Benjie’s not blinking on ‘GMA-resign’call
DAGUPAN City Mayor Benjamin S. Lim is ready to face any political backlash that may result from his earlier call for President Arroyo to resign but is hopeful of the full support of the House Speaker Jose de Venecia, Jr. who he said would not abandon his own city.
Lim said he was not discounting a possible reprisal from Malacanang for his active participation in the call for Arroyo’s resignation and that may come thru withholding of funds for the city’s projects or worse, filing of charges as what befell Cavite Gov. Ireneo Maliksi, who was ordered suspended by the Ombudsman for alleged irregularities as charged by his own vice-governor.
The mayor said he was not wavering in his stand and he was even proud to have taken that position against all odds before his family, friends and Dagupenos.
He expressed hopes De Venecia will still be there working for the continued release of funds and assistance to the city for various projects, pending or in the pipeline. “Di naman tayo pababayaan ni Speaker,” he optimistically remarked.
On the unrealized bangus processing plant in Bonuan, Lim said he had enough waiting for the fund counterpart from the agriculture department. He said he was given a runaround by the department when he did several follow-ups of the money that would come from the agency.
The President during her early term promised to help the city realize that project thru a counterpart fund from the DA. “Nagsawa na rin ako sa kapa-followup, pinaiikot-ikot tayo,” he said. He clarified however that he was not blaming the President for the long delay.
But he did not totally abandon the project. He said he was counting on the private sector to invest on it, saying that he had on-going talks with possible investors.
The local executive has been traveling abroad more frequently in recent weeks, going to the U.S. and China apparently to woo investors.
Lim said he was not discounting a possible reprisal from Malacanang for his active participation in the call for Arroyo’s resignation and that may come thru withholding of funds for the city’s projects or worse, filing of charges as what befell Cavite Gov. Ireneo Maliksi, who was ordered suspended by the Ombudsman for alleged irregularities as charged by his own vice-governor.
The mayor said he was not wavering in his stand and he was even proud to have taken that position against all odds before his family, friends and Dagupenos.
He expressed hopes De Venecia will still be there working for the continued release of funds and assistance to the city for various projects, pending or in the pipeline. “Di naman tayo pababayaan ni Speaker,” he optimistically remarked.
On the unrealized bangus processing plant in Bonuan, Lim said he had enough waiting for the fund counterpart from the agriculture department. He said he was given a runaround by the department when he did several follow-ups of the money that would come from the agency.
The President during her early term promised to help the city realize that project thru a counterpart fund from the DA. “Nagsawa na rin ako sa kapa-followup, pinaiikot-ikot tayo,” he said. He clarified however that he was not blaming the President for the long delay.
But he did not totally abandon the project. He said he was counting on the private sector to invest on it, saying that he had on-going talks with possible investors.
The local executive has been traveling abroad more frequently in recent weeks, going to the U.S. and China apparently to woo investors.
No ploy, just a process, sez Nick Melecio
SAN JACINTO -- Is the reforestation project here of the water district of Dagupan City just a ploy to attain the real objective of putting up a garbage disposal system long rejected by the local residents?
Environmentalist Nick Melecio brushed off this fear of residents of barangay Awai and surrounding areas saying the proposed landfill disposal system has to undergo a process that should be strictly followed.
While the project is undergoing the process, he said that planting trees in the area now will bring benefits in the long run both to Awai and the city.
The Dagupan City Water District (DCWD) recently entered into a memorandum of agreement with the city to plant trees at the idle land to form a watershed.
The district has been scouting for sources of water for its long-term supply from outside areas because of depleting supply as well as sea water intrusion into the present wells located in the city. Possible areas being considered are this town, San Fabian, Manaoag, Pozorrubio and even San Manuel where the San Roque dam is located.
The reforestation project also got the nod of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources under the Adopt a Barangay Reforestation program, Melecio said.
Similar reforestation projects have been successful in the hilly and mountain areas of central-western Pangasinan like the one undertaken by Mayor Benjamin S. Lim and the tree seedling project of second district Congressman Amado T. Espino.
On the landfill waste disposal system, Melecio said that several studies or surveys on geology, hydrology, habitation, topography etc. are involved in the process before the project is implemented. The most important requirement, he said, is the acceptance of the people to be affected or social acceptability. .
After technical studies are made, the city will determine the best use for the area, whether for landfill or as a forest resort as later proposed.
Environmentalist Nick Melecio brushed off this fear of residents of barangay Awai and surrounding areas saying the proposed landfill disposal system has to undergo a process that should be strictly followed.
While the project is undergoing the process, he said that planting trees in the area now will bring benefits in the long run both to Awai and the city.
The Dagupan City Water District (DCWD) recently entered into a memorandum of agreement with the city to plant trees at the idle land to form a watershed.
The district has been scouting for sources of water for its long-term supply from outside areas because of depleting supply as well as sea water intrusion into the present wells located in the city. Possible areas being considered are this town, San Fabian, Manaoag, Pozorrubio and even San Manuel where the San Roque dam is located.
The reforestation project also got the nod of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources under the Adopt a Barangay Reforestation program, Melecio said.
Similar reforestation projects have been successful in the hilly and mountain areas of central-western Pangasinan like the one undertaken by Mayor Benjamin S. Lim and the tree seedling project of second district Congressman Amado T. Espino.
On the landfill waste disposal system, Melecio said that several studies or surveys on geology, hydrology, habitation, topography etc. are involved in the process before the project is implemented. The most important requirement, he said, is the acceptance of the people to be affected or social acceptability. .
After technical studies are made, the city will determine the best use for the area, whether for landfill or as a forest resort as later proposed.
River dredging going full blast
SOME 20,500 cubic meters of silt have been removed from the Pantal River through the IMS Model 5012 Versi-Dredge over a short period of time.
The City Engineer’s Office (CEO) started dredging Pantal River last July 21 using the US-made dredging machine, which could dredge 66 cu.m of silt per hour.
It works on a two-shift schedule daily from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 1 a.m.
“The dredging operation gives dual benefits to the city. While the rivers are deepened, the public schools are also provided filling materials out of the dredged silt,” Rosario said.
The dredged silt is temporarily deposited at an empty fishpond in Pantal.
Seeking to fasttrack dredging of city rivers, the CEO said water master classic dredgers will soon arrive from the Department of Public Works and Highways.
“With the number of rivers we have, we really need all the additional dredging machines that we can get,” Rosario stressed.
She noted that Pantal river alone has to be dredged until December to attain its standard depth as the river is now very shallow. Seven river courses traverse Dagupan City namely Magueragday-Anolid, Bayaoas, Patogcawen, Calmay, Dawel, Pantal and Tanap. The total area of the city’s coastal waters is 639.75 hectares.
Rosario said the water master dredgers from the DPWH could be utilized in dredging rivers and large bodies of water such as the Lingayen Gulf, while the Versi-Dredge is especially made for river dredging.
According to Rosario, one of the water masters would be used to deepen the coast of Lingayen Gulf outside the mouth of Pantal river, while the other water master is planned to initially dredge Calmay river.
Rosario was optimistic the city rivers would be fully-dredged in about two years time with the simultaneous dredging operation. It will take four to five years before the rivers are totally deepened, if a single equipment operates.
The city engineer noted that the level of standard depth of these rivers also still has to be maintained after the dredging operations, in order to be effective as flood control measure.
The modern dredging machine which cost U.S. $636,000 was exclusively manufactured by the Innovative Material Systems (IMS), a division of Liquid Waste Technology (LWT), LLC. It was delivered to the city last July 12. (Sunshine D. Robles)
The City Engineer’s Office (CEO) started dredging Pantal River last July 21 using the US-made dredging machine, which could dredge 66 cu.m of silt per hour.
It works on a two-shift schedule daily from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 1 a.m.
“The dredging operation gives dual benefits to the city. While the rivers are deepened, the public schools are also provided filling materials out of the dredged silt,” Rosario said.
The dredged silt is temporarily deposited at an empty fishpond in Pantal.
Seeking to fasttrack dredging of city rivers, the CEO said water master classic dredgers will soon arrive from the Department of Public Works and Highways.
“With the number of rivers we have, we really need all the additional dredging machines that we can get,” Rosario stressed.
She noted that Pantal river alone has to be dredged until December to attain its standard depth as the river is now very shallow. Seven river courses traverse Dagupan City namely Magueragday-Anolid, Bayaoas, Patogcawen, Calmay, Dawel, Pantal and Tanap. The total area of the city’s coastal waters is 639.75 hectares.
Rosario said the water master dredgers from the DPWH could be utilized in dredging rivers and large bodies of water such as the Lingayen Gulf, while the Versi-Dredge is especially made for river dredging.
According to Rosario, one of the water masters would be used to deepen the coast of Lingayen Gulf outside the mouth of Pantal river, while the other water master is planned to initially dredge Calmay river.
Rosario was optimistic the city rivers would be fully-dredged in about two years time with the simultaneous dredging operation. It will take four to five years before the rivers are totally deepened, if a single equipment operates.
The city engineer noted that the level of standard depth of these rivers also still has to be maintained after the dredging operations, in order to be effective as flood control measure.
The modern dredging machine which cost U.S. $636,000 was exclusively manufactured by the Innovative Material Systems (IMS), a division of Liquid Waste Technology (LWT), LLC. It was delivered to the city last July 12. (Sunshine D. Robles)
Dengue cases rise to 431
DENGUE cases in Pangasinan have risen to 431, including three deaths, as of Aug. 25 this year, according to a report released by the Provincial Health Team of the Department of Health based in Dagupan City.
Dr. Jose Soriano, PHT team leader, said of three deaths recorded so far, two were from Dagupan City and one from Sison town. Soriano however called on the people not to panic because the situation is well under control.
The report showed Dagupan City topped in the number of dengue cases, accounting for 72, followed by Calasiao, 42; Binalonan and Sison, 41; Mangaldan, 37; Dasol, 26; Sta. Barbara, 18; Laoac, 16; and Agno, 14.
The towns of Malasiqui and Bugallon have 10 cases each ; Bolinao and Mangatarem, eight each; Binmaley and Villasis, seven each; Bautista and Bayambang,.six each.
There were also five cases each in Lingayen, Manaoag, Mapandan and San Manuel; four each in San Fabian and San Jacinto; three each from Alaminos City, Asingan, Bani, Infanta, Labrador, Pozorrubio, Sual and Urdaneta City.
Two cases each were reported in Anda, Balungao and Sto. Tomas and one each in Basista, Burgos, Mabini and San Carlos City.
Soriano said the number of dengue cases is much less than the 1,000 cases all over Pangasinan last year although the disease is expected to still peak up till September before it starts to taper off by October.
He said that fogging operations, as well as the initiation of cleanliness drive that would make communities safer from dengue are the responsibilities of local government units.
The DOH will only extend its help to these LGUs in the fight against dengue when requested, Soriano said, adding that it is still too far to call these cases as an indication of outbreak.
Dr. Jose Soriano, PHT team leader, said of three deaths recorded so far, two were from Dagupan City and one from Sison town. Soriano however called on the people not to panic because the situation is well under control.
The report showed Dagupan City topped in the number of dengue cases, accounting for 72, followed by Calasiao, 42; Binalonan and Sison, 41; Mangaldan, 37; Dasol, 26; Sta. Barbara, 18; Laoac, 16; and Agno, 14.
The towns of Malasiqui and Bugallon have 10 cases each ; Bolinao and Mangatarem, eight each; Binmaley and Villasis, seven each; Bautista and Bayambang,.six each.
There were also five cases each in Lingayen, Manaoag, Mapandan and San Manuel; four each in San Fabian and San Jacinto; three each from Alaminos City, Asingan, Bani, Infanta, Labrador, Pozorrubio, Sual and Urdaneta City.
Two cases each were reported in Anda, Balungao and Sto. Tomas and one each in Basista, Burgos, Mabini and San Carlos City.
Soriano said the number of dengue cases is much less than the 1,000 cases all over Pangasinan last year although the disease is expected to still peak up till September before it starts to taper off by October.
He said that fogging operations, as well as the initiation of cleanliness drive that would make communities safer from dengue are the responsibilities of local government units.
The DOH will only extend its help to these LGUs in the fight against dengue when requested, Soriano said, adding that it is still too far to call these cases as an indication of outbreak.
LGUs persist on ‘junkets’
CALASIAO – Some local officials do not seem to give a hoot to Malacanang’s order for government agencies to observe austerity measures as they pursue their respective junkets justified as “study tours.”
Three sanggunian members from Calasiao reportedly went to Davao City along with some councilors from San Jacinto to attend an executive forum. Three Binmaley councilors traveled to Bohol for unclear reasons
On the other hand, the municipal treasurer of Sta. Barbara, Juanita Fernandez, reportedly traveled to Thailand to attend a seminar, a move that angered barangay officials because it allegedly caused delay in the release of their funds, it was learned.
President Macapagal-Arroyo has ordered government offices to strictly adopt austerity measures because of the prevailing economic problems caused by the unrelenting rise in the prices of oil in the world market.
Crude oil price in the international market has gone up to $67 per barrel in the past few days.
Meanwhile, the department of interior and local government said it was up to the local government unit concerned if it would allow some of its personnel to go on what is described as Lakbay Aral.
Officer-in-charge Romulo Prangan said that LGUs have to weigh factors like availability of funds and the subject matter of the seminar itself or the objective of the travel. “Lalo na ngayon meron nang pinalabas ang Malacanang tungkol sa pagtitipid,” he noted.
Citing a directive from the regional office, he said that the decision rests on the LGUs whether to allow their personnel to attend seminars far from their workplaces like Cebu or Davao.
It will be recalled that criticisms rained on some Binmaley councilors a few months ago when they went to the tourist destination Boracay. The aldermen justified their junket saying they went there to take a look at the thriving tourism business there which could be done in their own town too.
The people of Binmaley however have yet to see the fruit of their expensive travel as the town’s beach area has practically remained in the same state without any visible sign of improvement.
Three sanggunian members from Calasiao reportedly went to Davao City along with some councilors from San Jacinto to attend an executive forum. Three Binmaley councilors traveled to Bohol for unclear reasons
On the other hand, the municipal treasurer of Sta. Barbara, Juanita Fernandez, reportedly traveled to Thailand to attend a seminar, a move that angered barangay officials because it allegedly caused delay in the release of their funds, it was learned.
President Macapagal-Arroyo has ordered government offices to strictly adopt austerity measures because of the prevailing economic problems caused by the unrelenting rise in the prices of oil in the world market.
Crude oil price in the international market has gone up to $67 per barrel in the past few days.
Meanwhile, the department of interior and local government said it was up to the local government unit concerned if it would allow some of its personnel to go on what is described as Lakbay Aral.
Officer-in-charge Romulo Prangan said that LGUs have to weigh factors like availability of funds and the subject matter of the seminar itself or the objective of the travel. “Lalo na ngayon meron nang pinalabas ang Malacanang tungkol sa pagtitipid,” he noted.
Citing a directive from the regional office, he said that the decision rests on the LGUs whether to allow their personnel to attend seminars far from their workplaces like Cebu or Davao.
It will be recalled that criticisms rained on some Binmaley councilors a few months ago when they went to the tourist destination Boracay. The aldermen justified their junket saying they went there to take a look at the thriving tourism business there which could be done in their own town too.
The people of Binmaley however have yet to see the fruit of their expensive travel as the town’s beach area has practically remained in the same state without any visible sign of improvement.
City hall teams to do survey of real properties
CITY hall teams will fan out to the barangays for a survey of structures and real properties in order to establish a database for city hall’s coming implementation of the Geographical Information System (GIS).
Management Consultant Emmanuel Bamba and City Assesor Jose Sanchez formed the groups that will conduct the inventory of real properties in the barangays, including improvements.
“All data which will be gathered by the teams will be encoded in the computer. The information will then be incorporated with the Dagupan City satellite photo,” Bamba said.
The GIS is part of the city government’s effort at establishing an eGovernment Dagupan City.
Sanchez said the activity will also update the records of the City Assessors Office on real properties. The evaluation starts next week, he said.
The four teams are composed of: (Team A) Engr. Camilo Cayabyab, Engr. Melchor Guiang and Arch. Aquilino Pastoral; (Team B) Engr. Charlie Gocheng, Arch. Jose Jesus Torio, and Salvador Ugaban; (Team C) Leonardo Bagtas, Alfred Flores and Arnold Nicanor Gomez; and (Team D) Hector Roque Narciso, Marlo Quinto and Ariel Villamil. (Sunshine D. Robles)
Management Consultant Emmanuel Bamba and City Assesor Jose Sanchez formed the groups that will conduct the inventory of real properties in the barangays, including improvements.
“All data which will be gathered by the teams will be encoded in the computer. The information will then be incorporated with the Dagupan City satellite photo,” Bamba said.
The GIS is part of the city government’s effort at establishing an eGovernment Dagupan City.
Sanchez said the activity will also update the records of the City Assessors Office on real properties. The evaluation starts next week, he said.
The four teams are composed of: (Team A) Engr. Camilo Cayabyab, Engr. Melchor Guiang and Arch. Aquilino Pastoral; (Team B) Engr. Charlie Gocheng, Arch. Jose Jesus Torio, and Salvador Ugaban; (Team C) Leonardo Bagtas, Alfred Flores and Arnold Nicanor Gomez; and (Team D) Hector Roque Narciso, Marlo Quinto and Ariel Villamil. (Sunshine D. Robles)
‘Serbisyong Totoo’ visits Dagupan
THE country’s most trusted news organization, GMA News and Public Affairs, brought its biggest names and its award-winning programs to Dagupan yesterday for a grand public service fair aptly billed, “Serbisyong Totoo Day in Dagupan.”
Pillars of Serbisyong Totoo – Jessica Soho, Arnold Clavio and Vicky Morales – together with other popular hosts of top rating GMA News and Public Affairs programs like Oscar Orbos and Winnie Monsod, met their Kapusong Dagupeño from 9 am to 6 pm at the Dagupan Astrodome.
At the public service fair, free medical consultation and bone density tests were made available through the shows Emergency and At Your Service. Imbestigador, with its Sumbungan ng Bayan booth provided assistance to troubled local residents, while Wish Ko Lang! fair participants had the chance to personally drop their letters in the Send-in Your Wish drop box.
Pinoy Abroad organized a job fair for overseas job seekers. A docufest featuring I-Witness’ and Reporter’s Notebook’s most compelling documentaries and stories, was also presented.
Other free offerings incuded: story telling, puppet shows and a magic show – at the Art Angel/Lovely Day Booth; food giveaways at the Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho booth; free drinks – at the Debate booth; free haircuts and manicures at the Kay Susan Tayo booth; Mini challenges and prizes at the Extra Challenge booth; A Karaoke Singing Contest and prizes at the Unang Hirit booth and news quizzes and free giveaways at the 24 Oras & Saksi Booth.
Pillars of Serbisyong Totoo – Jessica Soho, Arnold Clavio and Vicky Morales – together with other popular hosts of top rating GMA News and Public Affairs programs like Oscar Orbos and Winnie Monsod, met their Kapusong Dagupeño from 9 am to 6 pm at the Dagupan Astrodome.
At the public service fair, free medical consultation and bone density tests were made available through the shows Emergency and At Your Service. Imbestigador, with its Sumbungan ng Bayan booth provided assistance to troubled local residents, while Wish Ko Lang! fair participants had the chance to personally drop their letters in the Send-in Your Wish drop box.
Pinoy Abroad organized a job fair for overseas job seekers. A docufest featuring I-Witness’ and Reporter’s Notebook’s most compelling documentaries and stories, was also presented.
Other free offerings incuded: story telling, puppet shows and a magic show – at the Art Angel/Lovely Day Booth; food giveaways at the Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho booth; free drinks – at the Debate booth; free haircuts and manicures at the Kay Susan Tayo booth; Mini challenges and prizes at the Extra Challenge booth; A Karaoke Singing Contest and prizes at the Unang Hirit booth and news quizzes and free giveaways at the 24 Oras & Saksi Booth.
PHOTO: Double treat in Dagupan:Kapuso and Kapamilya
DOUBLE TREAT IN DAGUPAN: KAPUSO AND KAPAMILYA. Popular TV reporter Macky Pulido of GMA –7’s Reporter’s Notebook, exchanges notes with Pangasinan mediamen (left panel photo) in yesterday’s press conference at the Dagupan Astrodome. Daughter of Board membe
r Alice Pulido and Anda Mayor Nestor Pulido, the Pangasinense lady reporter was with the rest of GMA7 top staff and stars in the network’s weekend grand extravaganza in Dagupan. Almost at the same time, ABS-CBN talents Arnel Ignacio, Bayani Agbayani and other TV hosts (right photo) were holding court at the Star Plaza before launching their own television network’s entertainment extravaganza at CSI The City Mall. (PStar Photo by Butch F. Uka)Form management body for Awai lot
CITY Mayor Benjamin S. Lim has created through Executive Order No. 208 a management advisory board for the city government-owned lot in barangay Awai in the municipality of San Jacinto to ensure compliance to the Adopt-a-Watershed/Adopt-a-Mountain project.
“There is a need to come up with policies which will bring out all potential utilization of the property that will result in the best interest of the public,” according to Lim.
The body is tasked to explain and answer queries relative to the implementation of the Adopt-a-Watershed/Adopt-a-Mountain project and to immediately address possible conflicts that may arise.
It will also submit periodic reports to proper agencies on the status of the project and make recommendations for the proper implementation of the program.
Lim tasked Sangguniang Panlungsod member Nicanor Aquino to chair the advisory board being the SP committee chair on environment and natural resources and land utilization, while Environmental Consultant Nicanor Melecio is co-chairman.
The members of the board are Dagupan City Water District General Manager Ramon Reyna, Community Environment and Natural Resources Officer Rogel Pimentel, and a representative each from the local government unit of San Jacinto and barangay Awai.
Lim earlier signed a memorandum of agreement with Reyna and Pimentel to pursue the Adopt-a-Watershed/Adopt-a-Mountain project that seek to develop Awai into a tourist forest park. Under the MOA, the DCWD which has an existing Adopt-a-Watershed project, will adopt the Awai property while the DENR which has an Adopt-a-Mountain project, will provide technical assistance. (Sheila H. Aquino)
“There is a need to come up with policies which will bring out all potential utilization of the property that will result in the best interest of the public,” according to Lim.
The body is tasked to explain and answer queries relative to the implementation of the Adopt-a-Watershed/Adopt-a-Mountain project and to immediately address possible conflicts that may arise.
It will also submit periodic reports to proper agencies on the status of the project and make recommendations for the proper implementation of the program.
Lim tasked Sangguniang Panlungsod member Nicanor Aquino to chair the advisory board being the SP committee chair on environment and natural resources and land utilization, while Environmental Consultant Nicanor Melecio is co-chairman.
The members of the board are Dagupan City Water District General Manager Ramon Reyna, Community Environment and Natural Resources Officer Rogel Pimentel, and a representative each from the local government unit of San Jacinto and barangay Awai.
Lim earlier signed a memorandum of agreement with Reyna and Pimentel to pursue the Adopt-a-Watershed/Adopt-a-Mountain project that seek to develop Awai into a tourist forest park. Under the MOA, the DCWD which has an existing Adopt-a-Watershed project, will adopt the Awai property while the DENR which has an Adopt-a-Mountain project, will provide technical assistance. (Sheila H. Aquino)
Mayor Lim reveals 3-tiered approach to improve sales at Malimgas Market
CITY Mayor Benjamin S. Lim disclosed a three-tiered approach in yet another attempt to reinvigorate business at the Malimgas Market even as he encouraged the vendors to stay put as the “ber” months are just around the corner.
Lim said that the city plans to divert the route of some jeepney groups and make them pass through the modern market to increase its accessibility to the public.
He said they have also invited national agencies to set up satellite offices inside the market to increase human traffic in the area. Among those who have expressed interest were the National Bureau of Investigation and the Land Transportation Office.
The third approach, according to Lim, is to allow new tenants, including established firms, to set up shop to improve “mix” of products offered at the market for more shopper excitement and wider array of product lines for the marketgoers.
Lim pointed out that the renovated market had given first priority to previous tenants of the old market and those who are bonafide residents in the city.
“As planned, all the previous stall holders were able to get a space in the new market,” the mayor said, sadly noting that some of these merely speculated and sold their stalls to other interested tenants.
An almost similar statement was earlier issued by City Administrator Rafael Baraan who sweepingly labelled those who have closed shop at the Malimgas as being the old tenants who had wanted to sell their rights to the stalls the way many of them have done in the past, but found they could not do so now in the new market.
“We are making corresponding adjustments to the plight of the stall holders who are having a hard time to earn enough income,” Lim said.
He said that the anti-hawking task force has also intensified its drive to stop ambulant vendors selling at the side of the market. Lim discouraged those who are buying from illegal stall holders since most of them, he said, cheat buyers with tampered weighing scales. (CIO)
Lim said that the city plans to divert the route of some jeepney groups and make them pass through the modern market to increase its accessibility to the public.
He said they have also invited national agencies to set up satellite offices inside the market to increase human traffic in the area. Among those who have expressed interest were the National Bureau of Investigation and the Land Transportation Office.
The third approach, according to Lim, is to allow new tenants, including established firms, to set up shop to improve “mix” of products offered at the market for more shopper excitement and wider array of product lines for the marketgoers.
Lim pointed out that the renovated market had given first priority to previous tenants of the old market and those who are bonafide residents in the city.
“As planned, all the previous stall holders were able to get a space in the new market,” the mayor said, sadly noting that some of these merely speculated and sold their stalls to other interested tenants.
An almost similar statement was earlier issued by City Administrator Rafael Baraan who sweepingly labelled those who have closed shop at the Malimgas as being the old tenants who had wanted to sell their rights to the stalls the way many of them have done in the past, but found they could not do so now in the new market.
“We are making corresponding adjustments to the plight of the stall holders who are having a hard time to earn enough income,” Lim said.
He said that the anti-hawking task force has also intensified its drive to stop ambulant vendors selling at the side of the market. Lim discouraged those who are buying from illegal stall holders since most of them, he said, cheat buyers with tampered weighing scales. (CIO)
‘Bleed for dengue,” VM Alvin appeals
ANTICIPATING possible outbreak of dengue here and in various parts of the country, city officials have called for blood donation from among able-bodied citizens to be used by patients needing replacement of their lost blood platelets.
Acting Mayor Alvin Fernandez initiated the campaign for blood donation in his meeting Thursday with the city’s 31 barangay captains even though the dengue situation here is not yet quite alarming.
Fernandez’ call was supported by the city council which passed a resolution calling on all able-bodied citizens to donate blood for ready use by any dengue patient here.
The blood to be donated by the citizens would be processed by a blood separator in order to separate the vital platelets from the mass of blood.
Doctors said the dengue virus carried by the day-biting aedes aegypti mosquito, once it is in the body, destroys the person’s blood platelets.
The Region 1 Medical Center reported that it has adequate supply of blood platelets since it is the only hospital in the Ilocos equipped with a blood separator.
Dr. Jesus Canto, R1MC chief, however expressed fear that because of the increasing number of dengue cases in the country, their supply of platelets could run out unless replenished soon.
This is because they are now the region’s chief supplier of blood platelets and representatives of various hospitals from as far as Ilocos are coming to buy these from them.
The city health office however stressed that there is nothing to worry about because to date, there are only a few cases of dengue recorded in some areas of Dagupan. Two deaths however have been recorded in the city.
Acting Mayor Alvin Fernandez initiated the campaign for blood donation in his meeting Thursday with the city’s 31 barangay captains even though the dengue situation here is not yet quite alarming.
Fernandez’ call was supported by the city council which passed a resolution calling on all able-bodied citizens to donate blood for ready use by any dengue patient here.
The blood to be donated by the citizens would be processed by a blood separator in order to separate the vital platelets from the mass of blood.
Doctors said the dengue virus carried by the day-biting aedes aegypti mosquito, once it is in the body, destroys the person’s blood platelets.
The Region 1 Medical Center reported that it has adequate supply of blood platelets since it is the only hospital in the Ilocos equipped with a blood separator.
Dr. Jesus Canto, R1MC chief, however expressed fear that because of the increasing number of dengue cases in the country, their supply of platelets could run out unless replenished soon.
This is because they are now the region’s chief supplier of blood platelets and representatives of various hospitals from as far as Ilocos are coming to buy these from them.
The city health office however stressed that there is nothing to worry about because to date, there are only a few cases of dengue recorded in some areas of Dagupan. Two deaths however have been recorded in the city.
Livelihood loans to keep children away from tobacco farms
By Sarah Perez-Oballes
LIVELIHOOD projects of tobacco farming families in Ilocos Sur and La Union received P300,000 from the Department of Labor and Employment – Region 1 under its Eliminating Child Labor in the Tobacco Industry (ECLTI) Project recently.
The Balaoan ECLTI Beneficiaries Association of La Union (BEBALU) in Balaoan, La Union; the San Juan ECLTI Beneficiary Association of Ilocos Sur (SJEBAIS) in San Juan, Ilocos Sur; and the San Emilio ECLTI Parents Association (SEEPA) in San Emilio, Ilocos Sur were each awarded a livelihood assistance of P100,000 during simple ceremonies held recently in these towns. Present at the awarding ceremonies were local executives of the respective municipalities; DOLE-RO1 personnel led by Dr. Ma. Concepcion Garna, OIC of the Workers Amelioration and Welfare Division; representatives from the Bureau of Women and Young Workers; and other LGU personnel.
A goat-raising project will be undertaken by the 17 project beneficiaries of BEBALU in Balaoan. The municipality and the provincial government provided counterpart funding for the purchase of materials such as electrical wire, cyclone wire, and drinking palls, while the association provided the project site and contributed the labor requirement.
Similarly, 25 beneficiaries of SJEBAIS in San Juan, Ilocos Sur will have goat and hog raising as livelihood project. Counterpart funding of the municipal government included the construction of the animal corral and the feeds worth P26,000. Renato Aguilar, president of the association, accepted the cheque awarded by DOLE on behalf of the organization.
Twenty-five beneficiaries will also engage in goat and poultry raising project of the SEEPA in San Emilio, Ilocos Sur. The municipal government provided counterpart assistance through the construction of corrals and chicken coops. SEEPA President Lonarda Go received the cheque for their organization. The provincial government is also set to give its counterpart assistance to both organizations in the form of livestock medicines and vitamins, feds, and other construction materials.
The livelihood grant is a continuation of the assistance given by the ECLT Foundation, a Swiss-based funding agency which initiated the project in Africa, Latin America and Asia, to 100 tobacco child laborers in the Ilocos Region who were earlier granted a two-year educational assistance each for studies in either the primary or secondary level or for a vocational/technical course.
Two more associations in Pinili, Ilocos Norte and Alcala, Pangasinan will be awarded the livelihood assistance. The municipalities are the selected pilot areas in the region for the implementation of the ECLTI Project.
The livelihood assistance is given to families of the scholars in a continuing program of assistance aimed at keeping the child laborers off the tobacco farms.
LIVELIHOOD projects of tobacco farming families in Ilocos Sur and La Union received P300,000 from the Department of Labor and Employment – Region 1 under its Eliminating Child Labor in the Tobacco Industry (ECLTI) Project recently.
The Balaoan ECLTI Beneficiaries Association of La Union (BEBALU) in Balaoan, La Union; the San Juan ECLTI Beneficiary Association of Ilocos Sur (SJEBAIS) in San Juan, Ilocos Sur; and the San Emilio ECLTI Parents Association (SEEPA) in San Emilio, Ilocos Sur were each awarded a livelihood assistance of P100,000 during simple ceremonies held recently in these towns. Present at the awarding ceremonies were local executives of the respective municipalities; DOLE-RO1 personnel led by Dr. Ma. Concepcion Garna, OIC of the Workers Amelioration and Welfare Division; representatives from the Bureau of Women and Young Workers; and other LGU personnel.
A goat-raising project will be undertaken by the 17 project beneficiaries of BEBALU in Balaoan. The municipality and the provincial government provided counterpart funding for the purchase of materials such as electrical wire, cyclone wire, and drinking palls, while the association provided the project site and contributed the labor requirement.
Similarly, 25 beneficiaries of SJEBAIS in San Juan, Ilocos Sur will have goat and hog raising as livelihood project. Counterpart funding of the municipal government included the construction of the animal corral and the feeds worth P26,000. Renato Aguilar, president of the association, accepted the cheque awarded by DOLE on behalf of the organization.
Twenty-five beneficiaries will also engage in goat and poultry raising project of the SEEPA in San Emilio, Ilocos Sur. The municipal government provided counterpart assistance through the construction of corrals and chicken coops. SEEPA President Lonarda Go received the cheque for their organization. The provincial government is also set to give its counterpart assistance to both organizations in the form of livestock medicines and vitamins, feds, and other construction materials.
The livelihood grant is a continuation of the assistance given by the ECLT Foundation, a Swiss-based funding agency which initiated the project in Africa, Latin America and Asia, to 100 tobacco child laborers in the Ilocos Region who were earlier granted a two-year educational assistance each for studies in either the primary or secondary level or for a vocational/technical course.
Two more associations in Pinili, Ilocos Norte and Alcala, Pangasinan will be awarded the livelihood assistance. The municipalities are the selected pilot areas in the region for the implementation of the ECLTI Project.
The livelihood assistance is given to families of the scholars in a continuing program of assistance aimed at keeping the child laborers off the tobacco farms.
FEATURE: BFAD: Doctors to blame for proliferation of counterfeit medicines
SOME doctors are themselves abetting the proliferation of counterfeit medicines which are being marketed clandestinely by a syndicate.
Dr. Reynaldo Jacinto, chief of the Standards Regulation Division of BFAD in Region 1, said if doctors are not buying counterfeit medicines to be sold to their patients at higher margin of profit, there would be no demand for these.
Jacinto and Renato Padilla, Food and Drugs Regulation Officer III, were in Dagupan since Sunday to help the National Bureau of Investigation inventory the P3 million worth of counterfeit medicines seized from an Indian national and his driver along the road in barangay Tapuac, Dagupan City last Saturday.
There were at least 84 items of pharmaceutical products seized from Ramchand Dayaldas, 46, of Lubao, Pampanga: and Reynaldo Lozano, 41, of Guagua, Pampanga, all originating from the United States, Canada, China, India, Thailand and Pakistan, and possibly smuggled through the country’s backdoors.
Lawyer Jose Doloiras,, chief of the NBI in Pangasinan, said the suspects will be charged with violation of Republic Act No. 8203 as these were imported, unregistered medicines with counterpart brands in the Philippines; and violations of RA 3720 for selling/distributing pharmaceutical products without license to operate as drug distributors and for selling/distributing pharmaceuticals that are adulterated and unbranded.
They will also be charged with violating the anti-drugs law because among the items seized were several vials of valium which is a restricted and unregulated drugs and use or possession of the same is legal only through doctors’ prescription.
Jacinto said couriers of the syndicate are selling the counterfeit medicines to the doctors at a much, much lower price. In turn, they sell these to their patients at a price almost the same as the genuine ones that can be sourced from drugstores, thus raking in huge profit from the transaction.
“The modus operandi is, the suppliers first offer the counterfeit medicines to doctors. And when these are already being widely used, that is the time they put their products in the drugstores for the patients’ succeeding purchases,” he said.
Jacinto said this is the reason the BFAD decided to seek the assistance of municipal and city governments so that they will pass ordinances banning local medical clinics from selling counterfeit medicines to their patients.
“This is because we are in a peculiar situation wherein a medical clinic is not licensed by the department of health. The drug store is licensed by the DoF through the BFAD whereas the medical clinic is not,” he said.
He clarified that what is licensed by way of a business permit issued by the mayor is the treatment service of the medical clinic. Such clinic, he said, is not supposed to sell drugs and neither is the doctor allowed to sell drugs.
As embodied in the Generic Act enacted by Congress during the term of Health Secretary Alfredo Bengzon, doctors are prohibited from selling or dispensing medicines except prescribing the same to their patients after they had diagnosed the ailments.
The prescription should be brought to the drug store where the medicine can be bought. A person can be charged under Republic 8203 if he can not show any prescription, invoice or receipt for counterfeit medicines found in his or her possession, Jacinto emphasized. (PNA)
Dr. Reynaldo Jacinto, chief of the Standards Regulation Division of BFAD in Region 1, said if doctors are not buying counterfeit medicines to be sold to their patients at higher margin of profit, there would be no demand for these.
Jacinto and Renato Padilla, Food and Drugs Regulation Officer III, were in Dagupan since Sunday to help the National Bureau of Investigation inventory the P3 million worth of counterfeit medicines seized from an Indian national and his driver along the road in barangay Tapuac, Dagupan City last Saturday.
There were at least 84 items of pharmaceutical products seized from Ramchand Dayaldas, 46, of Lubao, Pampanga: and Reynaldo Lozano, 41, of Guagua, Pampanga, all originating from the United States, Canada, China, India, Thailand and Pakistan, and possibly smuggled through the country’s backdoors.
Lawyer Jose Doloiras,, chief of the NBI in Pangasinan, said the suspects will be charged with violation of Republic Act No. 8203 as these were imported, unregistered medicines with counterpart brands in the Philippines; and violations of RA 3720 for selling/distributing pharmaceutical products without license to operate as drug distributors and for selling/distributing pharmaceuticals that are adulterated and unbranded.
They will also be charged with violating the anti-drugs law because among the items seized were several vials of valium which is a restricted and unregulated drugs and use or possession of the same is legal only through doctors’ prescription.
Jacinto said couriers of the syndicate are selling the counterfeit medicines to the doctors at a much, much lower price. In turn, they sell these to their patients at a price almost the same as the genuine ones that can be sourced from drugstores, thus raking in huge profit from the transaction.
“The modus operandi is, the suppliers first offer the counterfeit medicines to doctors. And when these are already being widely used, that is the time they put their products in the drugstores for the patients’ succeeding purchases,” he said.
Jacinto said this is the reason the BFAD decided to seek the assistance of municipal and city governments so that they will pass ordinances banning local medical clinics from selling counterfeit medicines to their patients.
“This is because we are in a peculiar situation wherein a medical clinic is not licensed by the department of health. The drug store is licensed by the DoF through the BFAD whereas the medical clinic is not,” he said.
He clarified that what is licensed by way of a business permit issued by the mayor is the treatment service of the medical clinic. Such clinic, he said, is not supposed to sell drugs and neither is the doctor allowed to sell drugs.
As embodied in the Generic Act enacted by Congress during the term of Health Secretary Alfredo Bengzon, doctors are prohibited from selling or dispensing medicines except prescribing the same to their patients after they had diagnosed the ailments.
The prescription should be brought to the drug store where the medicine can be bought. A person can be charged under Republic 8203 if he can not show any prescription, invoice or receipt for counterfeit medicines found in his or her possession, Jacinto emphasized. (PNA)
OPINION: Kapuso tan Kapamilya
SAYAN INDIO
Nen Mario F. Karateka
NO agkayoni manisian malet tan malaknab so “laban” daraniay duaran higanten kompanyay telebisyon ed bansa, say GMA 7 tan ABS-CBN, nengneng yo labat so impanpalyagan daranian dua ed sayay impansampot na simba.
Akaonan tua ya angibawag na isabiy Serbisyong Totoo to iyay GMA 7 ta pigay simba lan ibabawag to so isabi daray opisyales tan “stars” tora, balet inmosil so ABS-CBN tan impakabat to met ya onsabiray “talents” to ed Dagupan – kabansag na “show” na GMA.
Antoey, di naapag so katoowan. Saray arom wadman ed Astrodome no iner “amayagpag” iray kakaiba nen Kapuson Kabog (Orly P. Navarro, manedyer na DZSD Super Radyo-GMA) legan a saray taga ABS-CBN, niman kan nangoyor iray odyens ed CSI The City Mall. Marakep met iyan “laban” ingen ta napepesel iray promdi ed libren “shows” ya aglara kaukulan onlani ed Manila pian nanengneng iray idolo dad telebisyon.
Ni sikamiran walad Media, agmiamtay pangipasenan mi na laman mi, bangta naimanon singa inuna na maslak iran kakaiba so GMA dimad Astrodome tan walay pigaran dinmagop met ed ABS dimad Star Plaza tan CSI.
Baleg a bentahe na Dagupan so onian palyagan daray telebisyon diad rehiyon tayo. Akaonalan angipasen na ridyonal nitwork to (radyo-telebisyon) so ABS-CBN diad Dagupan tan natan onsabimetlay ridyonal nitwork na GMA ed siyudad, onong ed saray opisyales to.
Talaranan tayo iya, kabaleyan ta magmaliw tilan aliwa labatlan Kapamilya no ag ingen, Kapuso met.
Kongratyulesyon ed saray opisyales na sayan duaran angkakabaleg ya telebisyon nitwork ed patuloy ya serbisyo dad luyag! Mabuhay Tayon Amin!
* * * *
Labay toniay kaaron JunVee (si Juanito M. Velasco, ed saray agni makaamta) ya napalinewan iray totoo ya aliwan sikato so “mentor” o “handler” nen kontrobersiyal ya managpalapag Jaime Aquino. Masyadola kono so irap nen JunV ya ipapaliwawan ag nepeg ikabit so ngaran to ed saray aktibidades tan kontrobersiyan lolooban toniay Jaime, a sakey met a kaaro tayo.
Aminen met balet nen JunV, nen sikatoy akatoyaw tayo nen imbeneg a simba ya asabimi so alas-onse ed labi ed tongtong-kansionan, ya sikato so onaan ya apikabatan nen Jaime tan ontan sirin singa sikato so angikabkabat ed lokal ya media ed si JA.
Balet, kuay Jun, in-bitwin na tanggek toy layt beer, say angibangat ed si JA ya mansulat de maninterbyu kadtan – in syort, say trabaho tan kurang ed medya – et anggapoy arom si Ilokanon Orly P. Guirao. Tanger-tanger met yay Orly ya kaolop nen JunV ed saman a labi.
Asobraan balet amo nen Jaime so abilidar to – tan nian pati saray mamaestros to et papalampasan to lara ed popularidad natan. Anggapomet lanti so makaamtay batik na nonot na sakey a too, awa?
Nen Mario F. Karateka
NO agkayoni manisian malet tan malaknab so “laban” daraniay duaran higanten kompanyay telebisyon ed bansa, say GMA 7 tan ABS-CBN, nengneng yo labat so impanpalyagan daranian dua ed sayay impansampot na simba.
Akaonan tua ya angibawag na isabiy Serbisyong Totoo to iyay GMA 7 ta pigay simba lan ibabawag to so isabi daray opisyales tan “stars” tora, balet inmosil so ABS-CBN tan impakabat to met ya onsabiray “talents” to ed Dagupan – kabansag na “show” na GMA.
Antoey, di naapag so katoowan. Saray arom wadman ed Astrodome no iner “amayagpag” iray kakaiba nen Kapuson Kabog (Orly P. Navarro, manedyer na DZSD Super Radyo-GMA) legan a saray taga ABS-CBN, niman kan nangoyor iray odyens ed CSI The City Mall. Marakep met iyan “laban” ingen ta napepesel iray promdi ed libren “shows” ya aglara kaukulan onlani ed Manila pian nanengneng iray idolo dad telebisyon.
Ni sikamiran walad Media, agmiamtay pangipasenan mi na laman mi, bangta naimanon singa inuna na maslak iran kakaiba so GMA dimad Astrodome tan walay pigaran dinmagop met ed ABS dimad Star Plaza tan CSI.
Baleg a bentahe na Dagupan so onian palyagan daray telebisyon diad rehiyon tayo. Akaonalan angipasen na ridyonal nitwork to (radyo-telebisyon) so ABS-CBN diad Dagupan tan natan onsabimetlay ridyonal nitwork na GMA ed siyudad, onong ed saray opisyales to.
Talaranan tayo iya, kabaleyan ta magmaliw tilan aliwa labatlan Kapamilya no ag ingen, Kapuso met.
Kongratyulesyon ed saray opisyales na sayan duaran angkakabaleg ya telebisyon nitwork ed patuloy ya serbisyo dad luyag! Mabuhay Tayon Amin!
* * * *
Labay toniay kaaron JunVee (si Juanito M. Velasco, ed saray agni makaamta) ya napalinewan iray totoo ya aliwan sikato so “mentor” o “handler” nen kontrobersiyal ya managpalapag Jaime Aquino. Masyadola kono so irap nen JunV ya ipapaliwawan ag nepeg ikabit so ngaran to ed saray aktibidades tan kontrobersiyan lolooban toniay Jaime, a sakey met a kaaro tayo.
Aminen met balet nen JunV, nen sikatoy akatoyaw tayo nen imbeneg a simba ya asabimi so alas-onse ed labi ed tongtong-kansionan, ya sikato so onaan ya apikabatan nen Jaime tan ontan sirin singa sikato so angikabkabat ed lokal ya media ed si JA.
Balet, kuay Jun, in-bitwin na tanggek toy layt beer, say angibangat ed si JA ya mansulat de maninterbyu kadtan – in syort, say trabaho tan kurang ed medya – et anggapoy arom si Ilokanon Orly P. Guirao. Tanger-tanger met yay Orly ya kaolop nen JunV ed saman a labi.
Asobraan balet amo nen Jaime so abilidar to – tan nian pati saray mamaestros to et papalampasan to lara ed popularidad natan. Anggapomet lanti so makaamtay batik na nonot na sakey a too, awa?
EDITORIAL: Name the doctors!
THE Department of Health thru the Bureau of Food and Drugs may not realize it but it is actually doing a disservice to the public if it insists in withholding the identities of the doctors listed in that “blue book” confiscated from two women couriers of counterfeit drugs in Calasiao two weeks back.
Until now, the public – and even the media – is being left guessing on whether or not their own doctor is among those unscrupulous medical practitioners who are selling their soul to the counterfeiters for profit. The innocent ones among the physicians are also unfairly put under a cloud of doubt; we have heard as much in public comments in coffeeshops the past days since local tabloids reported the story absent the names of the doctors patronizing the illegal activity.
If these doctors are, as the BFAD and NBI authorities claim, suspects only, so be it. Let them be called suspects but their names must be out – in the name of public alert. By insisting that there is no evidence yet against them and that they are only being monitored, the NBI itself may be unwittingly abetting the crime it wants to prevent by not naming the “suspects.”
There are supposedly 10 of the doctor-clients of the counterfeiters in Pangasinan and two in Ilocos Sur. How many of their innocent fellow doctors’ reputation and credibility now hang in doubt, all because of the refusal of authorities to tag those involved in the shenanigan?
There is an even more sinister implication of the continued non-disclosure of the 10 doctors’ identities – that the agencies involved in the investigation, going by prevailing public notion on matters of this nature, could so easily engineer a whitewash one way or the other and the public will never know.
That, we say, is a more compelling reason than any for DOH and NBI to now spill the beans. Out with the names, gentlemen!
Until now, the public – and even the media – is being left guessing on whether or not their own doctor is among those unscrupulous medical practitioners who are selling their soul to the counterfeiters for profit. The innocent ones among the physicians are also unfairly put under a cloud of doubt; we have heard as much in public comments in coffeeshops the past days since local tabloids reported the story absent the names of the doctors patronizing the illegal activity.
If these doctors are, as the BFAD and NBI authorities claim, suspects only, so be it. Let them be called suspects but their names must be out – in the name of public alert. By insisting that there is no evidence yet against them and that they are only being monitored, the NBI itself may be unwittingly abetting the crime it wants to prevent by not naming the “suspects.”
There are supposedly 10 of the doctor-clients of the counterfeiters in Pangasinan and two in Ilocos Sur. How many of their innocent fellow doctors’ reputation and credibility now hang in doubt, all because of the refusal of authorities to tag those involved in the shenanigan?
There is an even more sinister implication of the continued non-disclosure of the 10 doctors’ identities – that the agencies involved in the investigation, going by prevailing public notion on matters of this nature, could so easily engineer a whitewash one way or the other and the public will never know.
That, we say, is a more compelling reason than any for DOH and NBI to now spill the beans. Out with the names, gentlemen!
OPINION: We may not be seeing the worst of dengue yet
AFTER ALL
By Behn Fer. Hortaleza Jr.
THOSE afflicted in Pangasinan are only in the hundreds, with just three recorded deaths as of August 15 tally, so our local healthmen tell us, by way of assuring the public that the situation is still manageable. Worried relatives are bringing in their sick to the hospitals and clinics, but blessedly most of the victims are recovering. Meanwhile, the fogging and larvicidal tests by government health teams continue in most parts where the culprit, the day-biting aedes aegypti mosquito, may be in hiding.
With so many reports on dengue fever, a scourge of the century in Asian countries, filling newspapers and airlanes the past couple of months, you’d think there should have been some automatic, voluntary public mobilization by now to clean surroundings of stagnant water and live, as Gov. Victor Agbayani loves to mouth it, the neighborhood “4 o’clock habit.”
But we see none or little of that effort at backyard cleanup in many places. People just seem to be busy with so many other things except cleaning canals or tidying up the areas of stagnant water.
It’s painful to say this but it’s true: People of Pangasinan are taking the dengue threat lightly, compared to say that time when SARS “came” to Pangasinan (oddly, it was just the poor woman overseas worker from a fifth district town who fell from the fatal disease and yet everyone here went helter-skelter, grabbing the nearest surgical mask and swallowing whole capsules of vitamin C and antibiotics) a few years back.
That dengue seems to have become a seasonal affliction, coming during the wet months, and disappearing like magic by October or thereabouts seems to have given most local folk a false sense of security , especially if they or their nearest relatives have remained free of the disease by September’s end.
This mindset, of course, is dangerous.
As Health Secretary and kabaleyan Francisco “Pincoy” Duque stressed in a media interview, the seasonal run of the disease (July-September) could yet be drastically upturned or changed as had happened in Thailand where at one point dengue went nearly the full route of the year, downing so many and killing several in its deadly run. In other words, and against our better wishes and hopes, we might not be seeing the worst of this mosquito-carried virus yet.
Sure, everybody loves to hear reports of a decrease in the percentage of cases over that of the previous reckoning period (soothes the frayed nerves, doesn’t it?) anytime. But graphs and statistics, like presidential popularity surveys, can change overnight, and drastically too.
For now, what we should do is to clean, clean and clean some more those darn dirty yards and premises, even the house interiors. And, to pitch for Dagupan Vice Mayor Alvin’s current crusade: Bleed for Dengue. Donate blood if you’re strong and healthy enough. The platelets they separate from it (to transfuse the blood of dengue victims with) could one day save your life – or that of your loved ones.
By Behn Fer. Hortaleza Jr.
THOSE afflicted in Pangasinan are only in the hundreds, with just three recorded deaths as of August 15 tally, so our local healthmen tell us, by way of assuring the public that the situation is still manageable. Worried relatives are bringing in their sick to the hospitals and clinics, but blessedly most of the victims are recovering. Meanwhile, the fogging and larvicidal tests by government health teams continue in most parts where the culprit, the day-biting aedes aegypti mosquito, may be in hiding.
With so many reports on dengue fever, a scourge of the century in Asian countries, filling newspapers and airlanes the past couple of months, you’d think there should have been some automatic, voluntary public mobilization by now to clean surroundings of stagnant water and live, as Gov. Victor Agbayani loves to mouth it, the neighborhood “4 o’clock habit.”
But we see none or little of that effort at backyard cleanup in many places. People just seem to be busy with so many other things except cleaning canals or tidying up the areas of stagnant water.
It’s painful to say this but it’s true: People of Pangasinan are taking the dengue threat lightly, compared to say that time when SARS “came” to Pangasinan (oddly, it was just the poor woman overseas worker from a fifth district town who fell from the fatal disease and yet everyone here went helter-skelter, grabbing the nearest surgical mask and swallowing whole capsules of vitamin C and antibiotics) a few years back.
That dengue seems to have become a seasonal affliction, coming during the wet months, and disappearing like magic by October or thereabouts seems to have given most local folk a false sense of security , especially if they or their nearest relatives have remained free of the disease by September’s end.
This mindset, of course, is dangerous.
As Health Secretary and kabaleyan Francisco “Pincoy” Duque stressed in a media interview, the seasonal run of the disease (July-September) could yet be drastically upturned or changed as had happened in Thailand where at one point dengue went nearly the full route of the year, downing so many and killing several in its deadly run. In other words, and against our better wishes and hopes, we might not be seeing the worst of this mosquito-carried virus yet.
Sure, everybody loves to hear reports of a decrease in the percentage of cases over that of the previous reckoning period (soothes the frayed nerves, doesn’t it?) anytime. But graphs and statistics, like presidential popularity surveys, can change overnight, and drastically too.
For now, what we should do is to clean, clean and clean some more those darn dirty yards and premises, even the house interiors. And, to pitch for Dagupan Vice Mayor Alvin’s current crusade: Bleed for Dengue. Donate blood if you’re strong and healthy enough. The platelets they separate from it (to transfuse the blood of dengue victims with) could one day save your life – or that of your loved ones.
OPINION: BSL’s ‘anti’ stand: Out of conviction or dissatisfaction
The PEN SPEAKS
By Danny O. Sagun
"IPASADIYOS ko na l;ang ang kanilang ganti."
Dagupan City Mayor Benjie Lim made this remark, or words to that effect, on the possible adverse effects of his calling on President Arroyo to step down to save the country from further political turmoil. He said he was firm in his stand and ready to face any reprisal that may come as a result of his unwavering position.
The mayor, we suspect, has been dismayed by the very slow bureaucratic grind particularly on fund releases, which he, even way back when he was yet a full-time businessman, had hated so much. He had a big vision for his city, one that will rival the big ones like Manila, Cebu or Davao. If he was able to make his family business grow in just a decade or two, he thought he could do it for the city. Alas, his dream now appears to have been snagged.
Big projects supposed to lift Dagupan ahead of the others like the planned bangus processing plant in Bonuan is yet to be realized, if it could be realized at all. Funding is the biggest problem.
The city, thru the generous lending assistance of the Land Bank, got to see its mall-like modern market. The timing might have been bad however as seen in the economic activity going on at the second floor. Just take note of the small number of people hanging around there, hardly buying anything, and the many stalls that have already closed due to low daily sales.
Aggressive advertising has been done but of little effect. Obviously, there is something lacking in that market that could attract mall-goers. Well, the two malls beside it – CSI and Magic – remain bullish in their business despite the prevailing economic crunch. Which gives rise therefore to some fears among the present occupants that the market may in the end fall into private hands despite assurances from the city government that this would not happen.
Back to that unimplemented bangus processing plant project, the mayor has squarely blamed the Department of Agriculture for dragging its feet on it. Told by the President to coordinate with the DA for the release of the counterpart fund from the national government, he obediently did so. “Pinaiikot-ikot tayo,” he said in frustration.
“Nagsawa na rin ako sa kapa-followup,” he added.
Now we wonder. Was the local executive prompted to give up on the President over her apparent failure to make good her word on the bangus plant? He was not an original GMA fan. He might have only supported her due to party affiliation and perhaps because of FVR. He was even accused by some quarters in the Lakas that he was pro-FPJ in the last elections, which charge he strongly denied.
Whatever, the mayor, a businessman by nature or profession, must have been really so discouraged by the bureaucratic red tape, thus he took the path of the anti-GMA forces. In a way, GMA might also be partly blamed for practically leaving BSL to fend for himself after so grandly announcing to Dagupenos her help in the highly-ambitious bangus processing plant. BSL believes in his heart GMA could have pushed for the release of funds, if she really intended to help Dagupenos realize their dream – and live their pride.
By Danny O. Sagun
"IPASADIYOS ko na l;ang ang kanilang ganti."
Dagupan City Mayor Benjie Lim made this remark, or words to that effect, on the possible adverse effects of his calling on President Arroyo to step down to save the country from further political turmoil. He said he was firm in his stand and ready to face any reprisal that may come as a result of his unwavering position.
The mayor, we suspect, has been dismayed by the very slow bureaucratic grind particularly on fund releases, which he, even way back when he was yet a full-time businessman, had hated so much. He had a big vision for his city, one that will rival the big ones like Manila, Cebu or Davao. If he was able to make his family business grow in just a decade or two, he thought he could do it for the city. Alas, his dream now appears to have been snagged.
Big projects supposed to lift Dagupan ahead of the others like the planned bangus processing plant in Bonuan is yet to be realized, if it could be realized at all. Funding is the biggest problem.
The city, thru the generous lending assistance of the Land Bank, got to see its mall-like modern market. The timing might have been bad however as seen in the economic activity going on at the second floor. Just take note of the small number of people hanging around there, hardly buying anything, and the many stalls that have already closed due to low daily sales.
Aggressive advertising has been done but of little effect. Obviously, there is something lacking in that market that could attract mall-goers. Well, the two malls beside it – CSI and Magic – remain bullish in their business despite the prevailing economic crunch. Which gives rise therefore to some fears among the present occupants that the market may in the end fall into private hands despite assurances from the city government that this would not happen.
Back to that unimplemented bangus processing plant project, the mayor has squarely blamed the Department of Agriculture for dragging its feet on it. Told by the President to coordinate with the DA for the release of the counterpart fund from the national government, he obediently did so. “Pinaiikot-ikot tayo,” he said in frustration.
“Nagsawa na rin ako sa kapa-followup,” he added.
Now we wonder. Was the local executive prompted to give up on the President over her apparent failure to make good her word on the bangus plant? He was not an original GMA fan. He might have only supported her due to party affiliation and perhaps because of FVR. He was even accused by some quarters in the Lakas that he was pro-FPJ in the last elections, which charge he strongly denied.
Whatever, the mayor, a businessman by nature or profession, must have been really so discouraged by the bureaucratic red tape, thus he took the path of the anti-GMA forces. In a way, GMA might also be partly blamed for practically leaving BSL to fend for himself after so grandly announcing to Dagupenos her help in the highly-ambitious bangus processing plant. BSL believes in his heart GMA could have pushed for the release of funds, if she really intended to help Dagupenos realize their dream – and live their pride.
PHOTO: Timekeeper
Acting Mayor Alvin Fernandez shows the biometric-based timekeeping machine being used by the Sangguniang Panlugsod of Dagupan since November 16 last year to delegates of Barotac Nuevo, Iloilo led by Vice Mayor Belbin Biñas (second from right) during their Lakbay Aral to Dagupan last August 16. (CIO Photo by Edwin Palaganas)
