22 February 2006
Photo: GMA in Binalonan
GMA IN BINALONAN. President Arroyo unveils the marker (left photo) for the new Binalonan Public Market which she inaugurated yesterday as Rep. Mark Cojuangco, watches appreciatively. The Chief Executive assisted by Mayor Ramon N. Guico, Governor Victor Agbayani (extreme left) and Philhealth regional Director Ernesto Beltran (not seen in photo), later handed out Philhealth cards by batches (right photo) to the town’s barangays in simple ceremonies still at the newly-inaugurated public market. (PIA Photo by Roland Naoe)
GMA does a greet ‘n go at Binalonan town fiesta
New market inaugurated, scholarship vouchers, health cards distributed
BINALONAN – President Macapagal-Arroyo yesterday inaugurated this town’s new public market building in time for the yearly town fiesta.
The President likewise distributed subsidy vouchers to some 50 poor but deserving high school pupils to enable them to enroll in private schools as well as 1,500 Philhealth cards to indigent families of this fifth district town.
Bucking threats of coup d’etats and destabilization efforts by her political enemies, the Chief Executive continues to visit the provinces either to open various projects or give assistance to calamity victims.
Only last week, she formally opened the national games of the private schools at the Narciso Ramos Sports and Civic Center in Lingayen during which she also distributed vouchers for pupils from some towns in central Pangasinan under the pump-priming education scholarship program.
She earlier graced the town fiesta of San Fabian to distribute irrigation pumps for farmers of the towns in the fourth district and to observe the education department’s feeding program in which underweight pupils are given a kilo of rice daily to encourage them to attend their classes.
Arroyo has been a regular guest of this town for its fiesta celebration being her mother’s hometown.
The new market building was funded with a P50 million loan from Quedan Guarantee Corporation payable in seven years, according to Mayor Ramon Guico, Jr.
Guico said he was confident of the town’s ability to repay the loan as the market project is self-liquidating thru collection of stall rentals and goodwill money.
More new buildings are still needed at the public market as the old buildings there already appear dilapidated and now more of an eyesore, it was observed.
QC bursar bares formula for improved tax collection
By Sunshine D. Robles
QUEZON City Treasurer Victor Endriga, shared some strategies of that premier Philippine city to Dagupan City on how to increase revenue twofold in a lecture he delivered Wednesday at the City Museum.
Endriga revealed that in 2001, Quezon City was the most financially distressed local government unit in Metro Manila, and probably nationwide, with a cash balance of negative P10.35 million in the general fund. This was left by the predecessor of QC Mayor Feleciano ‘Sonny’ Belmonte.
“But now Quezon City is the richest city not only in Metro Manila but also in the entire country as authenticated by the Commission on Audit (COA. It beat Makati and Manila in terms of revenue collection from year 2002,” Endriga proudly said.
Endriga advised the city government to focus on business tax collections noting that Dagupan is a hub of commerce.
He said that the city could utilize the “presumptive income level approach” on business establishments implementing a schedule of minimum gross to make gross tax declaration more realistic and current.
For the real property owners to religiously pay their taxes, Endriga said QC undertakes auction sale of real properties every quarter. At least 20 delinquency letters a day are also prepared by each employee assigned in the Real Estate Division.
He stressed the need to reassign permanent employees every now and then to avoid familiarization with taxpayers, while noting that the connivance between employees and taxpayers is a major problem in tax payments.
As another incentive, the Quezon City government also set up a lounge area for taxpayers awaiting assessment and payment processing where they enjoy free flow of coffee and ice tea while watching cable TV. Dagupan City’s one-stop business center has a similar amenity for taxpayers, except for the free-flowing coffee and ice tea, it was noted.
Quezon City, Endriga added, utilizes the Geographical Information System (GIS) for taxmapping real properties which is also currently implemented by Dagupan City.
QUEZON City Treasurer Victor Endriga, shared some strategies of that premier Philippine city to Dagupan City on how to increase revenue twofold in a lecture he delivered Wednesday at the City Museum.
Endriga revealed that in 2001, Quezon City was the most financially distressed local government unit in Metro Manila, and probably nationwide, with a cash balance of negative P10.35 million in the general fund. This was left by the predecessor of QC Mayor Feleciano ‘Sonny’ Belmonte.
“But now Quezon City is the richest city not only in Metro Manila but also in the entire country as authenticated by the Commission on Audit (COA. It beat Makati and Manila in terms of revenue collection from year 2002,” Endriga proudly said.
Endriga advised the city government to focus on business tax collections noting that Dagupan is a hub of commerce.
He said that the city could utilize the “presumptive income level approach” on business establishments implementing a schedule of minimum gross to make gross tax declaration more realistic and current.
For the real property owners to religiously pay their taxes, Endriga said QC undertakes auction sale of real properties every quarter. At least 20 delinquency letters a day are also prepared by each employee assigned in the Real Estate Division.
He stressed the need to reassign permanent employees every now and then to avoid familiarization with taxpayers, while noting that the connivance between employees and taxpayers is a major problem in tax payments.
As another incentive, the Quezon City government also set up a lounge area for taxpayers awaiting assessment and payment processing where they enjoy free flow of coffee and ice tea while watching cable TV. Dagupan City’s one-stop business center has a similar amenity for taxpayers, except for the free-flowing coffee and ice tea, it was noted.
Quezon City, Endriga added, utilizes the Geographical Information System (GIS) for taxmapping real properties which is also currently implemented by Dagupan City.
Teachers vs. teachers in Sn. Jacinto
SAN JACINTO – Beleaguered Principal Alfredo S. Calugay of the national high school here has received full support from some 39 teachers and employees who signed a manifesto declaring that the complaints earlier raised against him were “blatant lies and mere speculations.”
In their manifesto dated January 19, his supporters who belong to the Teachers and Employees Association (TEA) of the SJNHS vouched for his “commitment, integrity, honesty and dedication to his job,” contrary to claims by protesting teachers that Calugay was dishonest, corrupt, undedicated, and oppressive.
Some 20 teachers and employees of the school in December filed an administrative case against Calugay with the regional office for alleged irregularities to include demands for money from new teachers.
The case is still pending investigation by the department’s legal division.
The principal, it was learned, is also facing a separate administrative complaint for grave misconduct filed by some 53 teachers of the Benigno Aldana National High School in Pozorrubio, where he was formerly assigned. Calugay replaced early last year Principal Mary Lynne Bautista who herself was forced to leave because of protests.
TEA officers led by Junilla Perez denied the charges saying that Calugay was responsible for bringing back what they described as “stress-free environment.”
The group identified the instigators as head teachers Francisco Torres, Redentor Aquino, and Marilou Mangapot, whom they claimed to be “fierce supporters” of Bautista.
“They were the ones who fabricated lies to defend her (Bautista) from all the accusations we have raised against her. Now, they are again fabricating lies and inventing half-truths, which are worse than lies, this time to make it appear that these complainants are the oppressed and Dr. Calugay is the oppressor,” they said in their manifesto.
They added that the three head teachers committed several cases of insubordination and were bent on discrediting the principal.
They also claimed that Calugay tried to mediate with the two factions and unite them but the complainants, they said, had another agenda in mind laying out a plan to boot him out from the very beginning.
Disproving claims that Calugay demanded money from some four new teachers, head teachers Zoraida Calpito and Remedios Condes and Mapeh OIC Bella Tucay said in their affidavit that they received no instruction from the principal to solicit money from the new teachers.
They also said that claims by Ritchell Cobella, Elsa Quiros, Minerva Mejia, and Ramon Abaoag that he had demanded money from them were false and fabricated and merely based on hearsay.
New teachers Rean Velasco and Jacqueline Galvez, in their separate affidavit, said the principal “did not ask any gift or remuneration from us in return for our teaching positions at SJNHS,” and that “he never instructed us to give gifts or money to any division personnel.’
Several parents expressed dismay at the state of things in the high school, saying that the situation shows how greatly divided the teaching personnel in that high school are to the detriment of the school and its students. (DOS)
In their manifesto dated January 19, his supporters who belong to the Teachers and Employees Association (TEA) of the SJNHS vouched for his “commitment, integrity, honesty and dedication to his job,” contrary to claims by protesting teachers that Calugay was dishonest, corrupt, undedicated, and oppressive.
Some 20 teachers and employees of the school in December filed an administrative case against Calugay with the regional office for alleged irregularities to include demands for money from new teachers.
The case is still pending investigation by the department’s legal division.
The principal, it was learned, is also facing a separate administrative complaint for grave misconduct filed by some 53 teachers of the Benigno Aldana National High School in Pozorrubio, where he was formerly assigned. Calugay replaced early last year Principal Mary Lynne Bautista who herself was forced to leave because of protests.
TEA officers led by Junilla Perez denied the charges saying that Calugay was responsible for bringing back what they described as “stress-free environment.”
The group identified the instigators as head teachers Francisco Torres, Redentor Aquino, and Marilou Mangapot, whom they claimed to be “fierce supporters” of Bautista.
“They were the ones who fabricated lies to defend her (Bautista) from all the accusations we have raised against her. Now, they are again fabricating lies and inventing half-truths, which are worse than lies, this time to make it appear that these complainants are the oppressed and Dr. Calugay is the oppressor,” they said in their manifesto.
They added that the three head teachers committed several cases of insubordination and were bent on discrediting the principal.
They also claimed that Calugay tried to mediate with the two factions and unite them but the complainants, they said, had another agenda in mind laying out a plan to boot him out from the very beginning.
Disproving claims that Calugay demanded money from some four new teachers, head teachers Zoraida Calpito and Remedios Condes and Mapeh OIC Bella Tucay said in their affidavit that they received no instruction from the principal to solicit money from the new teachers.
They also said that claims by Ritchell Cobella, Elsa Quiros, Minerva Mejia, and Ramon Abaoag that he had demanded money from them were false and fabricated and merely based on hearsay.
New teachers Rean Velasco and Jacqueline Galvez, in their separate affidavit, said the principal “did not ask any gift or remuneration from us in return for our teaching positions at SJNHS,” and that “he never instructed us to give gifts or money to any division personnel.’
Several parents expressed dismay at the state of things in the high school, saying that the situation shows how greatly divided the teaching personnel in that high school are to the detriment of the school and its students. (DOS)
Cop pokes gun at own chief
By Liway Manantan-Yparraguirre
SAN JACINTO – A policeman assigned at the San Jacinto Police Station is facing several charges after he poked his gun to his superior officer Thursday evening.
SPO4 Nelo Alvendia who was on duty that time was drunk and not in proper uniform when the incident happened, his station chief reported.
Police Senior Insp. Ferdinand de Asis, San Jacinto police chief, said in an interview over DWPR's Pulis Forum program yestrday that Alvendia will be facing administrative and criminal charges.
Administrative complaints for insubordination, abandoning post, drunkenness or drinking while on duty and non-wearing of proper uniform while on-duty had been filed against him with the police provincial command's Investigation, Detection and Management section.
“Yong panunutok sa akin ay violation sa ethical standard which constitutes grave misconduct. Ang parusa nito ay summary dismissal,” the police chief remarked.
De Asis said he will likewise file criminal cases for grave threat and assault at the fiscal's office.
The incident happened at about 10p.m. across the town plaza. De Asis said he was standing beside a parked police mobile car to oversee security at the ongoing Juniors-Seniors prom at the plaza.
Alvendia, who was supposed to be on-duty being the team leader arrived drunk and not in uniform.
“Sinabihan ko siya na magpahinga na lang sa police station dahil nakainom siya. Pero galit na sumagot at tinatanong kung ano ang problema ko kasabay ng pagbunot niya ng baril,” de Asis remarked.
The police chief further narrated Alvendia poked his gun at his chest prompting him to also pull out his gun in defense.
A marksman and a gun safety instructor, De Asis said he employed total self-control and pointed his gun downward remembering the gun safety dictum where one should not point a gun at someone unless one intends to kill.
De Asis said it was fortunate that one of his policemen quickly stepped in between him and Alvendia while another one grabbed the suspect and his gun or something worse could have happened. It was not clear why the police chief had not placed the policeman under arrest on the spot
The suspect had not reported nor showed up at the police station after the incident until yesterday, said de Asis who noted that Alvendia still has his issued firearm.
Last Friday, the provincial command sent a memorandum to Alvendia to report to the provincial command and turn over his gun. There was also an order transferring him from San Jacinto Police Station to the provincial headquarters in Lingayen.
The 50-plus year old Alvendia allegedly has a history of unruly conduct and had also pointed his gun at a former chief of police.
De Asis said he filed the necessary charges against Alvendia “para mahinto ang mga maaaring gawin pa niya sa ibang susunod na hepe (to stop whatever he might yet do to other succeeding police chiefs.)”
SAN JACINTO – A policeman assigned at the San Jacinto Police Station is facing several charges after he poked his gun to his superior officer Thursday evening.
SPO4 Nelo Alvendia who was on duty that time was drunk and not in proper uniform when the incident happened, his station chief reported.
Police Senior Insp. Ferdinand de Asis, San Jacinto police chief, said in an interview over DWPR's Pulis Forum program yestrday that Alvendia will be facing administrative and criminal charges.
Administrative complaints for insubordination, abandoning post, drunkenness or drinking while on duty and non-wearing of proper uniform while on-duty had been filed against him with the police provincial command's Investigation, Detection and Management section.
“Yong panunutok sa akin ay violation sa ethical standard which constitutes grave misconduct. Ang parusa nito ay summary dismissal,” the police chief remarked.
De Asis said he will likewise file criminal cases for grave threat and assault at the fiscal's office.
The incident happened at about 10p.m. across the town plaza. De Asis said he was standing beside a parked police mobile car to oversee security at the ongoing Juniors-Seniors prom at the plaza.
Alvendia, who was supposed to be on-duty being the team leader arrived drunk and not in uniform.
“Sinabihan ko siya na magpahinga na lang sa police station dahil nakainom siya. Pero galit na sumagot at tinatanong kung ano ang problema ko kasabay ng pagbunot niya ng baril,” de Asis remarked.
The police chief further narrated Alvendia poked his gun at his chest prompting him to also pull out his gun in defense.
A marksman and a gun safety instructor, De Asis said he employed total self-control and pointed his gun downward remembering the gun safety dictum where one should not point a gun at someone unless one intends to kill.
De Asis said it was fortunate that one of his policemen quickly stepped in between him and Alvendia while another one grabbed the suspect and his gun or something worse could have happened. It was not clear why the police chief had not placed the policeman under arrest on the spot
The suspect had not reported nor showed up at the police station after the incident until yesterday, said de Asis who noted that Alvendia still has his issued firearm.
Last Friday, the provincial command sent a memorandum to Alvendia to report to the provincial command and turn over his gun. There was also an order transferring him from San Jacinto Police Station to the provincial headquarters in Lingayen.
The 50-plus year old Alvendia allegedly has a history of unruly conduct and had also pointed his gun at a former chief of police.
De Asis said he filed the necessary charges against Alvendia “para mahinto ang mga maaaring gawin pa niya sa ibang susunod na hepe (to stop whatever he might yet do to other succeeding police chiefs.)”
Nationwide people’s initiative on Cha-cha now rolling – JDV
THE congressional maneuver for a People’s Initiative to secure nationwide endorsement for the amendment of the present Constitution to ‘over-ride’ any Senate objection to it is now rolling in various parts of the country till the middle part of March, according to House Speaker Jose de Venecia, Jr.
De Venecia said the initiative will be undertaken by the people themselves through their respective associations, from the ranks of farmers, civic and religious leaders and members, veterans, consumers of electric cooperatives, women, students, professionals and others.
The people’s initiative aims to secure the signatures of at least 12 percent of all the voters in the country.
De Venecia however told newsmen here that as of now, he expects the movement to be backed up by from 30 to 35 percent of all the voters.
The People’s Initiative is people’s direct action towards amending the constitution, especially now that there is a gridlock between the executive and legislative, paralysis between Senate and Malacañang and paralysis between the Senate and the House, de Venecia said.
“How can you amend the constitution with that kind of paralysis? ”, he asked as he stressed that the present fundamental law of the land authorizes the people to amend the Constitution.
He enumerated the three lawful modes of amending the Constitution;, one by Constitutional Convention, another thru an act of Congress and third, by People’s Initiative by the people themselves.
The result of the People’s Initiative will be submitted to the Commission on Elections. Simultaneously, he said, the Committee on Constitutional Amendments in the House of Representatives headed by Congressman Constantino Jaraula will initiate its own action of amending the Constitution by gathering 195 signatures representing three-fourths of all the members of the Senate and the House.
De Venecia announced that they already have the nod of 175 legislators to date and need only 20 more in order to muster the needed 195 to reach the desired number.
He explained that in a People’s Initiative, the people themselves produce their own forms to be signed by the people.
This form adopted the provisions approved by the House Committee on Constitutional Amendments of the House and the provisions recommended by the Consultative Commission as the legal and political basis to propose amendments to the Constitution.
He clarified that the charter change seeks to abolish not only the Senate but also the House of Representatives but the members of the two chambers are given a chance to run in the parliament.
De Venecia said he expects the opposition to challenge or question the results of the People’s Initiative before the Commisison on Elections and the Supreme Court.
“We encourage the opposition to do it,” he said, in supreme confidence.
De Venecia said the initiative will be undertaken by the people themselves through their respective associations, from the ranks of farmers, civic and religious leaders and members, veterans, consumers of electric cooperatives, women, students, professionals and others.
The people’s initiative aims to secure the signatures of at least 12 percent of all the voters in the country.
De Venecia however told newsmen here that as of now, he expects the movement to be backed up by from 30 to 35 percent of all the voters.
The People’s Initiative is people’s direct action towards amending the constitution, especially now that there is a gridlock between the executive and legislative, paralysis between Senate and Malacañang and paralysis between the Senate and the House, de Venecia said.
“How can you amend the constitution with that kind of paralysis? ”, he asked as he stressed that the present fundamental law of the land authorizes the people to amend the Constitution.
He enumerated the three lawful modes of amending the Constitution;, one by Constitutional Convention, another thru an act of Congress and third, by People’s Initiative by the people themselves.
The result of the People’s Initiative will be submitted to the Commission on Elections. Simultaneously, he said, the Committee on Constitutional Amendments in the House of Representatives headed by Congressman Constantino Jaraula will initiate its own action of amending the Constitution by gathering 195 signatures representing three-fourths of all the members of the Senate and the House.
De Venecia announced that they already have the nod of 175 legislators to date and need only 20 more in order to muster the needed 195 to reach the desired number.
He explained that in a People’s Initiative, the people themselves produce their own forms to be signed by the people.
This form adopted the provisions approved by the House Committee on Constitutional Amendments of the House and the provisions recommended by the Consultative Commission as the legal and political basis to propose amendments to the Constitution.
He clarified that the charter change seeks to abolish not only the Senate but also the House of Representatives but the members of the two chambers are given a chance to run in the parliament.
De Venecia said he expects the opposition to challenge or question the results of the People’s Initiative before the Commisison on Elections and the Supreme Court.
“We encourage the opposition to do it,” he said, in supreme confidence.
11,000 families get PhilHealth cards in Pangasinan
MANGALDAN – Some 11,000 families belonging to the poorest of the poor in Pangasinan received their Philippine Health Insurance cards recently from Speaker Jose de Venecia, Jr.
De Venecia paid half of the premiums of these families from his pork barrel allocation with the other half shouldered by PhilHealth.
“In these days when the cost of hospitalization can no longer be afforded by ordinary income-earners, most specially the poor, it pays to be PhilHealth members,” de Venecia said.
Some 2,000 families received their cards in Mangaldan, another 2,000 in San Jacinto, 2,000 in Manaoag, 2,000 in San Fabian and 3,000 in Dagupan City, all in de Venecia’s own fourth district of Pangasinan.
PhilHealth Regional Vice President Ernesto Beltran helped de Venecia distribute the cards to the recipient families.
Beltran said a PhilHealth card holder who is the family head enjoys free hospitalization, along with his wife and children as well as the holder’s parents.
Beneficiaries of PhilHealth cards were identified by their respective barangay captains.
The provision for health insurance among poor families was among the strategies adopted by the government to alleviate poverty in the countryside. (PNA)
De Venecia paid half of the premiums of these families from his pork barrel allocation with the other half shouldered by PhilHealth.
“In these days when the cost of hospitalization can no longer be afforded by ordinary income-earners, most specially the poor, it pays to be PhilHealth members,” de Venecia said.
Some 2,000 families received their cards in Mangaldan, another 2,000 in San Jacinto, 2,000 in Manaoag, 2,000 in San Fabian and 3,000 in Dagupan City, all in de Venecia’s own fourth district of Pangasinan.
PhilHealth Regional Vice President Ernesto Beltran helped de Venecia distribute the cards to the recipient families.
Beltran said a PhilHealth card holder who is the family head enjoys free hospitalization, along with his wife and children as well as the holder’s parents.
Beneficiaries of PhilHealth cards were identified by their respective barangay captains.
The provision for health insurance among poor families was among the strategies adopted by the government to alleviate poverty in the countryside. (PNA)
Cebu Pacific flies into Laoag as PAL cancels own flights
By FREDDIE G. LAZARO
LAOAG CITY – Cebu Pacific will carry out “rescue” flight from Laoag to Manila starting Tuesday in place of the Philippine Air Lines which suspended all its flights here starting last Monday.
This was announced by Gov. Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. who took steps to prevent tourists and balkbayan visitors attending the Laoag City fiesta and the centennial anniversary of the Ilocos Norte High School from being stranded here.
Marcos talked with Cebu Pacific after learning that a negotiation with Philippine Airlines to reconsider its decision to suspend all flights to this city was denied.
Lito R. Gorospe, media consultant to the governor, said that aside from undertaking rescue flights, Cebu Pacific is being asked by the governor to make regular runs to Laoag in place of PAL.
It was learned that PAL suspended all Laoag flights starting February 13 because of an alleged commotion involving former Laoag City Mayor Roger Fariñas and one of the airline’s ground personnel.
Cebu Pacific is the second largest airline in the country, with 15 destinations and a 31 percent market share on the routes that it flies.
Shabu “tiangge” may exist in other areas – Lomibao p.1
THERE could be many more shabu ‘talipapa’ operating in other parts of the country, similar to that one busted by lawmen in Pasig City last Friday, National Police Director Arturo Lomibao said last Tuesday in Dagupan City.
“There is a possibility this may be happening in other parts of the country,” Lomibao said in a talk to newsmen last Sunday when he called on House Speaker Jose de Venecia, Jr. in his home here.
“It’s incomprehensible, unimaginable, and unthinkable that one could exist in the neighborhood and in the heart of Metro Manila,” Lomibao lamented as he ordered all police regional directors to undertake renewed fight against illegal drugs.
The one-stop shop for illegal drugs is located in a 1,000-square meter compound in sitio Mapayapa, barangay Sto. Tomas in Pasig City which was raided by lawmen who arrested 319 suspected drug dependents there.
Upon drug testing, some 100 of them were found positive for illegal drugs.
Lomibao said he relieved the eight policemen manning a precinct only 100 meters away from the compound because there was strong possibility they were in cahoots with the operators of the one-stop shop who are yet to be identified.
After the incident, Lomibao said he may implement the one-strike policy earlier applied on illegal jueteng so that any police chief where such illegal activity may occur for the first time could be immediately relieved.
Within the compound in sitio Mapayapa the drugs sale operated like a sari-sari store or “tiangge”. Anyone who wants to sniff shabu can have it for as low as P100 to as high as P200.
“What intrigues me is that one-stop shop for shabu had been in existence from two to three years. It is impossible for this not to be known by the neighborhood, police and even city hall officials,” he said.
The compound was located very close to various government offices, he said.
Lomibao however believes that such kind of illegal drug operations may not be brought to the provinces as the syndicate knows that people in the provinces know each other and can easily pinpoint anything unusual going on in their community.
LAOAG CITY – Cebu Pacific will carry out “rescue” flight from Laoag to Manila starting Tuesday in place of the Philippine Air Lines which suspended all its flights here starting last Monday.
This was announced by Gov. Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. who took steps to prevent tourists and balkbayan visitors attending the Laoag City fiesta and the centennial anniversary of the Ilocos Norte High School from being stranded here.
Marcos talked with Cebu Pacific after learning that a negotiation with Philippine Airlines to reconsider its decision to suspend all flights to this city was denied.
Lito R. Gorospe, media consultant to the governor, said that aside from undertaking rescue flights, Cebu Pacific is being asked by the governor to make regular runs to Laoag in place of PAL.
It was learned that PAL suspended all Laoag flights starting February 13 because of an alleged commotion involving former Laoag City Mayor Roger Fariñas and one of the airline’s ground personnel.
Cebu Pacific is the second largest airline in the country, with 15 destinations and a 31 percent market share on the routes that it flies.
Shabu “tiangge” may exist in other areas – Lomibao p.1
THERE could be many more shabu ‘talipapa’ operating in other parts of the country, similar to that one busted by lawmen in Pasig City last Friday, National Police Director Arturo Lomibao said last Tuesday in Dagupan City.
“There is a possibility this may be happening in other parts of the country,” Lomibao said in a talk to newsmen last Sunday when he called on House Speaker Jose de Venecia, Jr. in his home here.
“It’s incomprehensible, unimaginable, and unthinkable that one could exist in the neighborhood and in the heart of Metro Manila,” Lomibao lamented as he ordered all police regional directors to undertake renewed fight against illegal drugs.
The one-stop shop for illegal drugs is located in a 1,000-square meter compound in sitio Mapayapa, barangay Sto. Tomas in Pasig City which was raided by lawmen who arrested 319 suspected drug dependents there.
Upon drug testing, some 100 of them were found positive for illegal drugs.
Lomibao said he relieved the eight policemen manning a precinct only 100 meters away from the compound because there was strong possibility they were in cahoots with the operators of the one-stop shop who are yet to be identified.
After the incident, Lomibao said he may implement the one-strike policy earlier applied on illegal jueteng so that any police chief where such illegal activity may occur for the first time could be immediately relieved.
Within the compound in sitio Mapayapa the drugs sale operated like a sari-sari store or “tiangge”. Anyone who wants to sniff shabu can have it for as low as P100 to as high as P200.
“What intrigues me is that one-stop shop for shabu had been in existence from two to three years. It is impossible for this not to be known by the neighborhood, police and even city hall officials,” he said.
The compound was located very close to various government offices, he said.
Lomibao however believes that such kind of illegal drug operations may not be brought to the provinces as the syndicate knows that people in the provinces know each other and can easily pinpoint anything unusual going on in their community.
Dagupan bags Most Competitive City Award
DAGUPAN City was awarded as one of the Most Competitive Cities in the Philippines for small cities category last February 3 at the Intercontinental Hotel in Makati City.
Vice Mayor Alvin Fernandez received the award on behalf of Mayor Benjamin S. Lim.
Awards of recognition were given under the City Competitiveness Program which started in 1997 by the AIM Policy Center with financial assistance from prestigious international organizations such as the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Asia Foundation and the Gender Technical Cooperation Agency.
Out of 37 small cities, Dagupan ranked number one in human resources training, the vice mayor reported.
Fernandez said that aside from human resource training, there were six other categories in which the final Ten Most Competitive Cities were chosen.
The rank of Dagupan City in terms of these categories were: dynamism of local economy, 12th; infrastructure, 3rd; quality of life, 16th; linkages and connectivity, 19th; responsiveness of local government, 12th; and cost of doing business, 31st.
Fernandez said that aside from the small cities, Ten Most Competitive Cities awards were conferred to Metro-Cities in the National Capital Region (NCR) and mid-sized cities in the country. (Sunshine D. Robles)
Vice Mayor Alvin Fernandez received the award on behalf of Mayor Benjamin S. Lim.
Awards of recognition were given under the City Competitiveness Program which started in 1997 by the AIM Policy Center with financial assistance from prestigious international organizations such as the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Asia Foundation and the Gender Technical Cooperation Agency.
Out of 37 small cities, Dagupan ranked number one in human resources training, the vice mayor reported.
Fernandez said that aside from human resource training, there were six other categories in which the final Ten Most Competitive Cities were chosen.
The rank of Dagupan City in terms of these categories were: dynamism of local economy, 12th; infrastructure, 3rd; quality of life, 16th; linkages and connectivity, 19th; responsiveness of local government, 12th; and cost of doing business, 31st.
Fernandez said that aside from the small cities, Ten Most Competitive Cities awards were conferred to Metro-Cities in the National Capital Region (NCR) and mid-sized cities in the country. (Sunshine D. Robles)
TESDA sets exams for potential scholars
POOR but deserving Dagupeños and Pangasinenses will have the chance to pursue one to three-year technical or vocational courses for free.
The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Provincial Office is scheduling a qualifying examination for potential scholars under the Private Education Student Financial Assistance (PESFA) Scholarship Program for 2006-2007.
Interested applicants for the program must be a secondary school graduate without any post-secondary or higher education unit/s taken after high school graduation and with general average grade of 80% or above; a Filipino and a resident of Pangasinan.
He should also be from a family whose annual income is not more than P120,000 and is physically and mentally fit to undergo training/education. The school principal must certify to his good moral character.
“The applicant must not be a recipient of any government scholarship grant of similar nature, and must be willing to enroll in non-degree courses,” TESDA Provincial Director Catipon, Jr. said.
Examination schedule is as follows: 3rd district, February 20 at the Provincial Training Center TESDA, Lingayen, Pangasinan; 4th District, Feb. 22, TESDA Lingayen; 2nd Dist., Feb 24, TESDA Lingayen; 6th Dist., Feb. 28, LMMSAT, Asingan Pangasinan; 5th Dist., March 2, National High School, Urdaneta City; 1st Dist., March 7-8, Alaminos National High School Alaminos City and; All Districts, March 10, TESDA Lingayen.
Application forms are available at TESDA Provincial Office. Inquiries will be entertained by TESDA at 542-65-77 or 542-47-02. (Sunshine D. Robles)
The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) Provincial Office is scheduling a qualifying examination for potential scholars under the Private Education Student Financial Assistance (PESFA) Scholarship Program for 2006-2007.
Interested applicants for the program must be a secondary school graduate without any post-secondary or higher education unit/s taken after high school graduation and with general average grade of 80% or above; a Filipino and a resident of Pangasinan.
He should also be from a family whose annual income is not more than P120,000 and is physically and mentally fit to undergo training/education. The school principal must certify to his good moral character.
“The applicant must not be a recipient of any government scholarship grant of similar nature, and must be willing to enroll in non-degree courses,” TESDA Provincial Director Catipon, Jr. said.
Examination schedule is as follows: 3rd district, February 20 at the Provincial Training Center TESDA, Lingayen, Pangasinan; 4th District, Feb. 22, TESDA Lingayen; 2nd Dist., Feb 24, TESDA Lingayen; 6th Dist., Feb. 28, LMMSAT, Asingan Pangasinan; 5th Dist., March 2, National High School, Urdaneta City; 1st Dist., March 7-8, Alaminos National High School Alaminos City and; All Districts, March 10, TESDA Lingayen.
Application forms are available at TESDA Provincial Office. Inquiries will be entertained by TESDA at 542-65-77 or 542-47-02. (Sunshine D. Robles)
Taipans put in P5B to get 5M tourists in 5 years
THE country’s taipans are leading a business offensive aimed at hitting the private sector’s “singko-singko” goal and propelling Philippine tourism to its golden age.
Their “5-5-5-5-5” target: To invest $5 billion to bring in 5 million tourists that would generate $5 billion in revenues and 5 million jobs in 5 years.
Marketing whiz Samie Lim said the country’s billionaires were buying new planes and ships, erecting new malls and hotels, and building word-class resorts and casinos, confident that tourism would be the next big thing in the Philippine economy. Taipan Lucio Tan is leading the pack with the $814 million reflecting program of Philippine Airlines and is spending a few billion pesos more to mark his entry into the shopping mall business (his Allied Bank has foreclosed on the Ever Gotesco properties).
Retail magnate Henry Sy’s gigantic P7 billion Mall of Asia off Manila Bay is being positioned as a major tourist destination not only for its world-class shopping facilities but also for its terminal that will have ferries carrying tourists to sites along the coastline.
Flush with cash from a stock offering last year, Sy is also building Hamilo Cove, a 5,200-hectare seaside property in Nasugbu, Batangas, as his flagship business in tourism and leisure.
Taipan John Gokongwei is pouring in $670 million to reflect Cebu Pacific, in tandem with the expansion of his hotel empire (Holiday Inn and Crowne Plaza).
Metrobank’s George Ty has quietly moved in with an initial P500 million investment in Cebu. Through the family’s property arm, Federal Land Inc., Ty will reopen the shuttered Cebu Plaza Hotel in partnership with the Marcho Polo hotel chain.
Their “5-5-5-5-5” target: To invest $5 billion to bring in 5 million tourists that would generate $5 billion in revenues and 5 million jobs in 5 years.
Marketing whiz Samie Lim said the country’s billionaires were buying new planes and ships, erecting new malls and hotels, and building word-class resorts and casinos, confident that tourism would be the next big thing in the Philippine economy. Taipan Lucio Tan is leading the pack with the $814 million reflecting program of Philippine Airlines and is spending a few billion pesos more to mark his entry into the shopping mall business (his Allied Bank has foreclosed on the Ever Gotesco properties).
Retail magnate Henry Sy’s gigantic P7 billion Mall of Asia off Manila Bay is being positioned as a major tourist destination not only for its world-class shopping facilities but also for its terminal that will have ferries carrying tourists to sites along the coastline.
Flush with cash from a stock offering last year, Sy is also building Hamilo Cove, a 5,200-hectare seaside property in Nasugbu, Batangas, as his flagship business in tourism and leisure.
Taipan John Gokongwei is pouring in $670 million to reflect Cebu Pacific, in tandem with the expansion of his hotel empire (Holiday Inn and Crowne Plaza).
Metrobank’s George Ty has quietly moved in with an initial P500 million investment in Cebu. Through the family’s property arm, Federal Land Inc., Ty will reopen the shuttered Cebu Plaza Hotel in partnership with the Marcho Polo hotel chain.
Dagupan ‘Kalutan’ still Guinness record holder
THE ‘Kalutan ed Dagupan’ the main event of the Bangus Festival is still the Guinness World Record holder for longest barbecue, Mayor Benjamin S. Lim declared.
In a press conference held last February 8 at the City Mueum Lim said the latest update on the official website of the Guinness World Records contains the 2003 record of Dagupan City. He added that the city’s record is the first to appear on the homepage of the website.
Dagupan posted its longest barbecue length of 1,007.56 meters in 2003 breaking the record of Peru, which had held the longest barbecue record since 1999 with a length of 613 meters.
Lim noted that the city’s victory was short-lived. We learned that Turkey (which set a 1,600-meter length of longest barbecue) later broke our record. We were caught in-between twin options: recapture or crown or just sit on laurels and be satisfied for bagging the world record in 2003. Lim said that in the end, the city’s will to persevere and to stay on top like that of a true boxing champ prevailed in the people’s hearts “We have to win back our world championship crown,” he stressed.
Thus, the city staged a two-kilometer grill last year with over 24,000 bangus cooked simultaneously but the city has yet to receive any confirmation on the latest bid.
Since the latest website of the Guinness however flashes the record of Dagupan in 2003 we can still claim that we are the record holder,” he explained.
According to Information Technology champion Gideon Ymasa of the City Mayor’s Office the longest barbecue record of Turkey was the one posted on the Guinness Website from 2004-2005. However Ymasa said that the Guiness website has been revised late December of last year. Since then the website has been showing Dagupan’s 2003 longest barbecue record.
This means that Turkey may have been stricken out from the record in favor of the victory of Dagupan City, City Information Office head Butch Velasco further explained.
Even as the issue on the city’s 2005 grill event remains beclouded, Lim said the city will again stage the barbecue party this year.
I told some media people two days ago that we are no longer bidding for the Guiness record. But we still stage the ‘Kalutan ed Dagupan’ because the ‘Kalutan’ is the soul of the Bangus Festival, the mayor said.
He added that all grill owners who purchased their grills in 2002, 2003 or 2005 are requested to surrender their grills to the Bangus Festival Executive Committee for proper recognition and accreditation as integral part of Dagupan’s successful bid.
Their grills will be stamped with the Guinness official logo as a fitting memento of their valuable participation in that record-breaking event and the same grills will be laid out on April 30 this year along A.B. Fernandez Avenue down to Burgos St. for the 5th Kalutan ed Dagupan.
In a press conference held last February 8 at the City Mueum Lim said the latest update on the official website of the Guinness World Records contains the 2003 record of Dagupan City. He added that the city’s record is the first to appear on the homepage of the website.
Dagupan posted its longest barbecue length of 1,007.56 meters in 2003 breaking the record of Peru, which had held the longest barbecue record since 1999 with a length of 613 meters.
Lim noted that the city’s victory was short-lived. We learned that Turkey (which set a 1,600-meter length of longest barbecue) later broke our record. We were caught in-between twin options: recapture or crown or just sit on laurels and be satisfied for bagging the world record in 2003. Lim said that in the end, the city’s will to persevere and to stay on top like that of a true boxing champ prevailed in the people’s hearts “We have to win back our world championship crown,” he stressed.
Thus, the city staged a two-kilometer grill last year with over 24,000 bangus cooked simultaneously but the city has yet to receive any confirmation on the latest bid.
Since the latest website of the Guinness however flashes the record of Dagupan in 2003 we can still claim that we are the record holder,” he explained.
According to Information Technology champion Gideon Ymasa of the City Mayor’s Office the longest barbecue record of Turkey was the one posted on the Guinness Website from 2004-2005. However Ymasa said that the Guiness website has been revised late December of last year. Since then the website has been showing Dagupan’s 2003 longest barbecue record.
This means that Turkey may have been stricken out from the record in favor of the victory of Dagupan City, City Information Office head Butch Velasco further explained.
Even as the issue on the city’s 2005 grill event remains beclouded, Lim said the city will again stage the barbecue party this year.
I told some media people two days ago that we are no longer bidding for the Guiness record. But we still stage the ‘Kalutan ed Dagupan’ because the ‘Kalutan’ is the soul of the Bangus Festival, the mayor said.
He added that all grill owners who purchased their grills in 2002, 2003 or 2005 are requested to surrender their grills to the Bangus Festival Executive Committee for proper recognition and accreditation as integral part of Dagupan’s successful bid.
Their grills will be stamped with the Guinness official logo as a fitting memento of their valuable participation in that record-breaking event and the same grills will be laid out on April 30 this year along A.B. Fernandez Avenue down to Burgos St. for the 5th Kalutan ed Dagupan.
Northrail project goes full blast next month
CHINESE Ambassador Li Jin Jan assured officials of the Clark Development Corp. (CDC) that the $503-million North Railway (Northrail) project will go full blast by the end of February.
CDC officials said Li recently briefed them, as well as officials of the Clark International Airport Corp. (CIAC) and Malacañang representatives, led by Presidential Adviser for North Luzon Renato Diaz, on developments in the railway project largely funded from a loan from the Export-Import Bank of China.
Li said the old railway of the Philippine National Railways from Kalookan City to Malolos, Bulacan is expected to be fully cleared of informal settlers this month.
This according to Lee, would pave the way for the start of the first phase of the modern railway that would link Metro Manila to the Clark Special Economic Zone, specifically the Diosdado Macapagal International Airport (DMIA).
Li said the Northrail’s phase 1 would cover some 80 kilometers from Kalookan City to the DMIA – the first section from Kalookan to the southern part of Malolos, Bulacan, and the second section from northern Malolos to the DMIA.
According to CDC officials, Clark establishments to be affected by the Northrail construction have been given notices to move out.
“The Northrail project will provide efficient transport service for passengers and goods between Metro Manila and Central and Northern Luzon, particularly between Clark, Fort Bonifacio, Subic Naval Base and Poro Point,” said CDC information manager Sonny Lopez.
“The railway system is expected to enhance the development and growth potentials of these areas,” he added.
Of the total $503-million cost of the Northrail project, Lopez said $421 million was loaned from the Chinese government through the Export-Import Bank of China” under very concessional terms.”
The Bases Conversion Development Authority (BCDA) secured the remaining $82 million from local loans, largely for the relocation of thousands of families living along the old PNR railway.
“The loan terms provide for 20-year repayment period, inclusive of a five-year grace period at three percent interest,” Lopez said.
CDC officials said Li recently briefed them, as well as officials of the Clark International Airport Corp. (CIAC) and Malacañang representatives, led by Presidential Adviser for North Luzon Renato Diaz, on developments in the railway project largely funded from a loan from the Export-Import Bank of China.
Li said the old railway of the Philippine National Railways from Kalookan City to Malolos, Bulacan is expected to be fully cleared of informal settlers this month.
This according to Lee, would pave the way for the start of the first phase of the modern railway that would link Metro Manila to the Clark Special Economic Zone, specifically the Diosdado Macapagal International Airport (DMIA).
Li said the Northrail’s phase 1 would cover some 80 kilometers from Kalookan City to the DMIA – the first section from Kalookan to the southern part of Malolos, Bulacan, and the second section from northern Malolos to the DMIA.
According to CDC officials, Clark establishments to be affected by the Northrail construction have been given notices to move out.
“The Northrail project will provide efficient transport service for passengers and goods between Metro Manila and Central and Northern Luzon, particularly between Clark, Fort Bonifacio, Subic Naval Base and Poro Point,” said CDC information manager Sonny Lopez.
“The railway system is expected to enhance the development and growth potentials of these areas,” he added.
Of the total $503-million cost of the Northrail project, Lopez said $421 million was loaned from the Chinese government through the Export-Import Bank of China” under very concessional terms.”
The Bases Conversion Development Authority (BCDA) secured the remaining $82 million from local loans, largely for the relocation of thousands of families living along the old PNR railway.
“The loan terms provide for 20-year repayment period, inclusive of a five-year grace period at three percent interest,” Lopez said.
Gov’t okays P500M fresh fund for Botika ng Bayan
THE National Development Corporation (NDC) approved the allocation of additional P500 million for expansion of the half-priced medicines program of the Arroyo administration implemented thru the Botika ng Bayan.
Philippine International Trading Corporation (PITC) chairman and president Roberto Pagdanganan said the NDC board unanimously approved the allocation of fresh funds to augment the present financial capabilities of the on-going half-priced medicines program of President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.
“The goal is to make funds available to expand the Botika ng Bayan all over the country so that the medicines commonly bought, including antibiotics, hypertension, antihistamine, anti-diabetic shall be made available, accessible and affordable to the people, especially to the poor,” Pagdanganan said.
The new fund shall be used for importing branded off-patent medicines and to hasten the implementation of the half-priced medicines to be distributed in all Botika ng Bayan and Botika ng Barangay outlets.
“With this Botika ng Bayan network, we hope to be able to reach the target places especially in Metro Manila and far-flung areas in the provinces,” Pagdanganan added.
The five-year program which started last year aims to reduce the prices of medicines by half.
As of January 2006, a total of 1,016 Botika ng Bayan has been established in addition to the 3,600 Botika ng Barangay all over the country.
Philippine International Trading Corporation (PITC) chairman and president Roberto Pagdanganan said the NDC board unanimously approved the allocation of fresh funds to augment the present financial capabilities of the on-going half-priced medicines program of President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.
“The goal is to make funds available to expand the Botika ng Bayan all over the country so that the medicines commonly bought, including antibiotics, hypertension, antihistamine, anti-diabetic shall be made available, accessible and affordable to the people, especially to the poor,” Pagdanganan said.
The new fund shall be used for importing branded off-patent medicines and to hasten the implementation of the half-priced medicines to be distributed in all Botika ng Bayan and Botika ng Barangay outlets.
“With this Botika ng Bayan network, we hope to be able to reach the target places especially in Metro Manila and far-flung areas in the provinces,” Pagdanganan added.
The five-year program which started last year aims to reduce the prices of medicines by half.
As of January 2006, a total of 1,016 Botika ng Bayan has been established in addition to the 3,600 Botika ng Barangay all over the country.
DPWH on Lim’s Lucao plaint: There’s a will, so there’s a way
By Behn Fer. Hortaleza, Jr.
PIA-Pangasinan News Service
CITY Mayor Benjamin S. Lim might still get his wish for the on-going Lucao Diversion Road to cut through or exit at or near the Nel-Ars Subbdivision in the area, according to a top official of the Department of Public Works and Highways in Region 1.
The “catch” though is, the present road construction being undertaken by DPWH contractors farther out of the Nel Ars property will have to continue as it is already almost complete -- with more than 90 % of affected real properties along the route already paid, according to DPWH Regional Director Fidel Ginez.
At best, according to Ginez, DPWH could construct an “additional exit point” without giving up the approved original exit point.
According to Ginez, the only “holdout” among affected property owners in the area are the heirs or administrator of the late city Councilor Elmer Quinto who are still abroad.
Interviewed by the Pangasinan Star during the luncheon hosted by Mayor Ramon Guico, Jr. for President Arroyo in Binalonan yesterday, Ginez said his office had just received another P8.6 million for the payment of road right-of-way of the project and initial works on the Pantal bridge.
A component of the total circumferential road project envisioned by House Speaker Jose de Venecia, Jr. for Dagupan, the Pantal bridge project was awarded to Toyo Construction of Japan.
Work starts middle of March, this year, Ginez announced. It is targeted for completion “within 18 months.”
On Mayor Lim’s own proposal for the diversion road in Lucao to exit somewhere near Nel-Ars subdivision, Ginez said the Bureau of Design of the DPWH is studying the construction of an additional exit line to the left of the subdivision’s main gate.
He said no cost estimate has been given yet as the design engineers are still evaluating the various design blueprints, particularly on how the additional exit line would impact on traffic in the area, considering its proximity to the admittedly traffic prone CSI City Mall zone.
Correcting media impression about the circumferential road plan, Ginez said “there is “only one DPWH plan” on the project, that is, the present one passing thru the back of the CSI City Mall area and turning left to link with the present narrow barangay road and crossing the national road at the Arco Sash Factory intersection.
He denied there ever was an “original” plan that was, as proposed by Lim, to exit at the Nel Ars subdivision point.
PIA-Pangasinan News Service
CITY Mayor Benjamin S. Lim might still get his wish for the on-going Lucao Diversion Road to cut through or exit at or near the Nel-Ars Subbdivision in the area, according to a top official of the Department of Public Works and Highways in Region 1.
The “catch” though is, the present road construction being undertaken by DPWH contractors farther out of the Nel Ars property will have to continue as it is already almost complete -- with more than 90 % of affected real properties along the route already paid, according to DPWH Regional Director Fidel Ginez.
At best, according to Ginez, DPWH could construct an “additional exit point” without giving up the approved original exit point.
According to Ginez, the only “holdout” among affected property owners in the area are the heirs or administrator of the late city Councilor Elmer Quinto who are still abroad.
Interviewed by the Pangasinan Star during the luncheon hosted by Mayor Ramon Guico, Jr. for President Arroyo in Binalonan yesterday, Ginez said his office had just received another P8.6 million for the payment of road right-of-way of the project and initial works on the Pantal bridge.
A component of the total circumferential road project envisioned by House Speaker Jose de Venecia, Jr. for Dagupan, the Pantal bridge project was awarded to Toyo Construction of Japan.
Work starts middle of March, this year, Ginez announced. It is targeted for completion “within 18 months.”
On Mayor Lim’s own proposal for the diversion road in Lucao to exit somewhere near Nel-Ars subdivision, Ginez said the Bureau of Design of the DPWH is studying the construction of an additional exit line to the left of the subdivision’s main gate.
He said no cost estimate has been given yet as the design engineers are still evaluating the various design blueprints, particularly on how the additional exit line would impact on traffic in the area, considering its proximity to the admittedly traffic prone CSI City Mall zone.
Correcting media impression about the circumferential road plan, Ginez said “there is “only one DPWH plan” on the project, that is, the present one passing thru the back of the CSI City Mall area and turning left to link with the present narrow barangay road and crossing the national road at the Arco Sash Factory intersection.
He denied there ever was an “original” plan that was, as proposed by Lim, to exit at the Nel Ars subdivision point.
Feature: CSFI’s The Haven helps 10,000 abused women, kids p.8 feature
THE Congressional Spouses Foundation, Inc. has helped rehabilitate some 10,000 battered and abused women and children from all over the country for the past 10 years.
This was reported by Mrs. Gina de Venecia, wife of Speaker Jose de Venecia and president of the CSFI, an organization of spouses of members of the House of Representatives.
The CSFI built The Haven for Women and The Haven for Children, both located in Alabang, Muntinlupa, Metro Manila, in order to provide new life and hope to abused women and children.
Both centers are now being managed by the Department of Social Welfare and Development through their social workers.
Mrs. de Venecia said The Haven for Women stands as a bastion for the protection of abused women of the land.
She said The Haven for Women is the only facility of its kind in the Asia-Pacific region.
Mrs. de Venecia presided over the groundbreaking of a soon-to-be constructed multi-purpose gymnasium at the Haven for Women in Alabang which also coincided with her birthday last Wednesday.
The affair was graced by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo who promised P10 million for the project. Newly designated Social Welfare and Development Secretary Esperanza Cabral joined the president at the event.
The Haven in Alabang has a satellite center in barangay Bonuan Binloc in Dagupan City, and various other parts of the country.
Under construction, with the help of the CSFI, is the Ina (Ina Naulila sa Anak) Foundation Healing Center which is a recovery center for mothers ‘orphaned’ by their children.
This was reported by Mrs. Gina de Venecia, wife of Speaker Jose de Venecia and president of the CSFI, an organization of spouses of members of the House of Representatives.
The CSFI built The Haven for Women and The Haven for Children, both located in Alabang, Muntinlupa, Metro Manila, in order to provide new life and hope to abused women and children.
Both centers are now being managed by the Department of Social Welfare and Development through their social workers.
Mrs. de Venecia said The Haven for Women stands as a bastion for the protection of abused women of the land.
She said The Haven for Women is the only facility of its kind in the Asia-Pacific region.
Mrs. de Venecia presided over the groundbreaking of a soon-to-be constructed multi-purpose gymnasium at the Haven for Women in Alabang which also coincided with her birthday last Wednesday.
The affair was graced by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo who promised P10 million for the project. Newly designated Social Welfare and Development Secretary Esperanza Cabral joined the president at the event.
The Haven in Alabang has a satellite center in barangay Bonuan Binloc in Dagupan City, and various other parts of the country.
Under construction, with the help of the CSFI, is the Ina (Ina Naulila sa Anak) Foundation Healing Center which is a recovery center for mothers ‘orphaned’ by their children.
OPINYON: Boksing nen Brian; ‘Poetry Café’ nen Mama Sonny V.
SAYAN INDIO
Mario F. Karateka
ANTOEY, di amemet lamet iray Mehikanos ed impakatalo na sakey lamet a kabaleyan da, si boksingeron Aguirre, ed lima nen ikikinon tayon Brian Villoria, tubod Ilokos balet manaayam lad Haway. Onaan lan ingorangor nen Manny ‘Pacman’ Pacquiao tayo si Mehikanon Erik Morales a tatawagen dan “El Terible’ dimad Las Vegas met.
Aliwan singa samay baleg ya preparasyon, impantalaran tan dasal ya inter ed si Pacquiao so agawad sayan laban nen Viloria. No sukaten bilang, singa kapaldua labat na kabaleg na atensiyon na Pilipino so niiter ed Viloria, komparad samay impibuntalan nen Pacquiao.
Balet, agtora pinabaingan so kadalaan toran Pinoy si Brian a inkabkabat dimad biek-taew bilang “The Hawaiian Punch”Matibay si Aguirre ta asabi day pigaran rawns balet sankanengneng met ya mas matibay tan maksil ya mamuntal si Ilokano Boy. Natan ni labat, walalaray promoters na boksing a mangibabagan pigara nin boksingeron Mehikano so isultada ed saray boksingeron Pinoy. Aliling toy panbubulangen so duaran bansa ed ring pian anto – antoniey, di pian ombaleg so pustaan tan makalmoy dakel iray “handlers” o maneegna ed sarayan isportsmin.
Ditanak agla bilib balet. Agni apaleenan, anggaponi limara, anemiran bulan, nitanlan pabugbog lamet iray lama-laman na boksingero na biek tan biek pian labat onyaman niy todo iray arom a masisibay kuarta. Eksploytasyon ya malinlinew!
Dakel ni so nibagak ed saya, balet ireserbak ed onsoblay iran kolum ko. Natan, lugayan tan itandoro tipa si Brian Viloria, say sankabaloan ya bayani na Ilokos tan Pilipinas.
* * * *
Maples so reaksiyon ya nala tonian Indio ed samay suriri ton usaren imay bakanten lote ya nanlapoan na Dagupena Restaurant diad A.B. Fernandez Avenue na Dagupan bilang sakey ya “drive-in theater”. Labay ton ibaga, sinean. Balet lukas iya, andiay tarong, tan saray walay luluganan (kotse, van, pik ap – pwera labat iray trak tan traysikel) et nayarin onloob, manbayar tan mansine ya aglara nepeg ompaway o onepas ed luganan da.
On, singa dimad Estados Unidos so kapara tonia.
Si Mama Sonny Villafania balet nan-emeyl ed sikatayo tan sananey so kanonotan ton ipasen ed ontan iran lugar: Poetry Café kuno. Sakey iyan pasen no iner saray “poets” tan arom iran “literary artists” et nayarin onladtan a manbasa na saray piyesa o anlong da ed arap na saray mankakape o mantotongtong iran parokyanos. Imbes a kansion o bibiin onsasayaw, anlong so iparengel ed kostumers.
“Midyo “class” ya bisnis balet nonot yo lay baleg a tulong to ed ibulaslas na culture tan arts tayo,” kuay kaaron Sonny.
Antoy kuanyod satan, Mama Jun Velasco, Butch Velasco, Huwes Yul Butuyan, Jimmy Lucas, Nick Melecio, Propesor Ernie Serote, Rhee Hortaleza, Dante Velasco, Ging Cardinoza, Carmen G. Claveria, Fred Macaraeg, Joe de Venecia tan arom niran managpanday na berso o managtalineng na insulat ya ey-ey?
Sayang tan namimiss tayoy manonaan ya maestro ed saya – si andilad bilay Armando R. Ravanzo, ontan met say kuya ton abogado Regino R. Ravanzo.
Mario F. Karateka
ANTOEY, di amemet lamet iray Mehikanos ed impakatalo na sakey lamet a kabaleyan da, si boksingeron Aguirre, ed lima nen ikikinon tayon Brian Villoria, tubod Ilokos balet manaayam lad Haway. Onaan lan ingorangor nen Manny ‘Pacman’ Pacquiao tayo si Mehikanon Erik Morales a tatawagen dan “El Terible’ dimad Las Vegas met.
Aliwan singa samay baleg ya preparasyon, impantalaran tan dasal ya inter ed si Pacquiao so agawad sayan laban nen Viloria. No sukaten bilang, singa kapaldua labat na kabaleg na atensiyon na Pilipino so niiter ed Viloria, komparad samay impibuntalan nen Pacquiao.
Balet, agtora pinabaingan so kadalaan toran Pinoy si Brian a inkabkabat dimad biek-taew bilang “The Hawaiian Punch”Matibay si Aguirre ta asabi day pigaran rawns balet sankanengneng met ya mas matibay tan maksil ya mamuntal si Ilokano Boy. Natan ni labat, walalaray promoters na boksing a mangibabagan pigara nin boksingeron Mehikano so isultada ed saray boksingeron Pinoy. Aliling toy panbubulangen so duaran bansa ed ring pian anto – antoniey, di pian ombaleg so pustaan tan makalmoy dakel iray “handlers” o maneegna ed sarayan isportsmin.
Ditanak agla bilib balet. Agni apaleenan, anggaponi limara, anemiran bulan, nitanlan pabugbog lamet iray lama-laman na boksingero na biek tan biek pian labat onyaman niy todo iray arom a masisibay kuarta. Eksploytasyon ya malinlinew!
Dakel ni so nibagak ed saya, balet ireserbak ed onsoblay iran kolum ko. Natan, lugayan tan itandoro tipa si Brian Viloria, say sankabaloan ya bayani na Ilokos tan Pilipinas.
* * * *
Maples so reaksiyon ya nala tonian Indio ed samay suriri ton usaren imay bakanten lote ya nanlapoan na Dagupena Restaurant diad A.B. Fernandez Avenue na Dagupan bilang sakey ya “drive-in theater”. Labay ton ibaga, sinean. Balet lukas iya, andiay tarong, tan saray walay luluganan (kotse, van, pik ap – pwera labat iray trak tan traysikel) et nayarin onloob, manbayar tan mansine ya aglara nepeg ompaway o onepas ed luganan da.
On, singa dimad Estados Unidos so kapara tonia.
Si Mama Sonny Villafania balet nan-emeyl ed sikatayo tan sananey so kanonotan ton ipasen ed ontan iran lugar: Poetry Café kuno. Sakey iyan pasen no iner saray “poets” tan arom iran “literary artists” et nayarin onladtan a manbasa na saray piyesa o anlong da ed arap na saray mankakape o mantotongtong iran parokyanos. Imbes a kansion o bibiin onsasayaw, anlong so iparengel ed kostumers.
“Midyo “class” ya bisnis balet nonot yo lay baleg a tulong to ed ibulaslas na culture tan arts tayo,” kuay kaaron Sonny.
Antoy kuanyod satan, Mama Jun Velasco, Butch Velasco, Huwes Yul Butuyan, Jimmy Lucas, Nick Melecio, Propesor Ernie Serote, Rhee Hortaleza, Dante Velasco, Ging Cardinoza, Carmen G. Claveria, Fred Macaraeg, Joe de Venecia tan arom niran managpanday na berso o managtalineng na insulat ya ey-ey?
Sayang tan namimiss tayoy manonaan ya maestro ed saya – si andilad bilay Armando R. Ravanzo, ontan met say kuya ton abogado Regino R. Ravanzo.
Editorial: Signs of the times
EDITORIAL
NO stranger to natural disasters ourselves, having weathered a killer earthquake in July 1990, several devastating killer typhoons that brought giant floods through the decades, deadly onslaught of viral diseases like meningococcemia, acute gastro-enteritis, dengue fever, cholera and at one point, the deadly SARS here in our doorsteps – not to mention having to live with our own set of elected “enriching” officials – the southern Leyte mudslide tragedy still jolts us with its sheer impact on human spirit.
A whole mountainside loosening and collapsing on an unwary barangay population of some 1,900 is an event of cataclysmic proportion that shows graphically how fragile life is. And how very puny our own relief and rescue capabilities can be in the face of such gigantic trials. Yet, when you come right down to it, how else but puny would Man’s response capability be to anything the Supreme Creator wills and lets pass for a reason, His own reason.
There today unfolding in St. Bernard, southern Leyte is another test of the human spirit among our Filipino rescuers now aided by several international relief crews. Looking for some 1,800 bodies believed buried alive in thick mud is a task so grim it should only be for the physically and spiritually strong. Yet, find them the rescuers now assembled in the disaster zone must do if only to, as President Arroyo, speaking in Binalonan yesterday put it, “give their living relatives and friends their peace of mind”.
Losing a loved one, after all, is a bitter experience; not being able to see his body at all in death is tragically maddening.
We who live in places far and near the site of this latest Philippine catastrophe and who have the One Above to thank for mercifully sparing us our own share of seasonal floodings the past year until today, should now take stock of our environment and see to it that we contribute to its preservation and protection, never its destruction.
It is never too late to make amends with Nature, in the way we treat our forests, our rivers, our seas and our air.
After that, the rest of our fate and future we can only calmly leave to Him who gave all of these to us for our sustenance – and who therefore has the sole Divine right to take them back anytime.
In measured and mild retribution or in sudden and painful payback.
NO stranger to natural disasters ourselves, having weathered a killer earthquake in July 1990, several devastating killer typhoons that brought giant floods through the decades, deadly onslaught of viral diseases like meningococcemia, acute gastro-enteritis, dengue fever, cholera and at one point, the deadly SARS here in our doorsteps – not to mention having to live with our own set of elected “enriching” officials – the southern Leyte mudslide tragedy still jolts us with its sheer impact on human spirit.
A whole mountainside loosening and collapsing on an unwary barangay population of some 1,900 is an event of cataclysmic proportion that shows graphically how fragile life is. And how very puny our own relief and rescue capabilities can be in the face of such gigantic trials. Yet, when you come right down to it, how else but puny would Man’s response capability be to anything the Supreme Creator wills and lets pass for a reason, His own reason.
There today unfolding in St. Bernard, southern Leyte is another test of the human spirit among our Filipino rescuers now aided by several international relief crews. Looking for some 1,800 bodies believed buried alive in thick mud is a task so grim it should only be for the physically and spiritually strong. Yet, find them the rescuers now assembled in the disaster zone must do if only to, as President Arroyo, speaking in Binalonan yesterday put it, “give their living relatives and friends their peace of mind”.
Losing a loved one, after all, is a bitter experience; not being able to see his body at all in death is tragically maddening.
We who live in places far and near the site of this latest Philippine catastrophe and who have the One Above to thank for mercifully sparing us our own share of seasonal floodings the past year until today, should now take stock of our environment and see to it that we contribute to its preservation and protection, never its destruction.
It is never too late to make amends with Nature, in the way we treat our forests, our rivers, our seas and our air.
After that, the rest of our fate and future we can only calmly leave to Him who gave all of these to us for our sustenance – and who therefore has the sole Divine right to take them back anytime.
In measured and mild retribution or in sudden and painful payback.
Opinion: Business costs
AFTER ALL
Behn Fer. Hortaleza, Jr.
THERE’S something in that seemingly minor news item about Dagupan City’s recently being awarded as one of the Most Competitive Cities in the Philippines for ‘small cities’ category.
The award was conferred on top performing urban centers by the AIM Policy Center in ceremonies at the Intercontinental Hotel in Makati with Vice Mayor Alvin Fernandez and several city aldermen receiving it on Mayor BSL’s behalf
Somewhere in the bottom lines of the news release by the City Information Office, it said the city ranked 31st in terms of the “cost of doing business.”
Now that’s a rather unsettling compliment as there were actually only 37 “small cities” evaluated. That meant we were down in the cellar with five others. But of course in the overall rankings for that category, we still made it among the country’s best.
The question begs: Is doing business in Dagupan really rather “too costly?” Juxtapose this with a news item this week, also from the CIO about the Quezon City treasurer’s discourse to Dagupan officials last week on the “trade secrets” for a robust financial health among cities, foremost of which is an improved (read: more) business tax collections by a local government unit.
Also, put the question alongside the stratospheric taxes and fees being implemented by Dagupan just this year for business permits (thanks but no thanks to the Revised Revenue Code of 2006) and you already probably have the answer—in the affirmative.
We scrutinized every word by the QC bursar in the news item and we seem to have missed reading in them any piece of advice about fiscal restraint on excessive ‘festival expenses’, ‘consultancy service fees’ and ‘donations’ to civic clubs and assorted mendicants among them. Quezon City probably is also doing the same with aplomb, so it can’t afford to shoot its mouth off on that. Or, maybe, shoot its foot is more to the point.
* * * * * * *
One more thing: Treasurer Victor Endriga of Quezon City talked about something like ‘presumptive income level’ as basis for tax rates which, to our layman’s understanding, is simply something like the cops’ “plain view” doctrine in searching houses, establishments or vehicles for inspection. You presume that if you don’t see anything irregular or plain sight, you don’t have to dig deep or ask further.
On the other hand, it could also mean the city and its taxmen have the right to presume you earn this much just by looking at your style of dressing and the places you go to – or the kind of entertainment houses you frequent. Presumptive, see? It’s probably the fancy cousin of the phrase ‘unexplained wealth’.
* * * * * *
Now since we started the subject, we had a talk with a businessman-fellow blogger (if you don’t know that term, ask your friendly computer-junkie or the neighborhood cyber-technology expert) last Thursday and he believes the cumbersome (tiresome, longwinded, confusing) procedures for paying taxes to this government is what’s turning off many from settling their tax obligations, or somehow cheating on these.
“Why not a flat rate applicable to all who fall under the same category, and no more questions asked?, he queried out loud. He cited Vietnam and even we think, Ireland as among the countries that have achieved economic miracles largely due to their ‘practical’ tax laws.
As it is, the internal revenue guys here have become so accustomed to putting so many ifs and buts in their tax rules, a simple tax payer is liable to fall guilty of offenses one way or the other out of sheer ignorance of the rules. When he does, the BIR is only too glad to slap the penalties on him. And the wily accountant besides would only be too happy to “fix” the problem for the confused taxpayer if the price is right. Any which way, the taxpayer gets it in the neck.
Besides, our friend added, with a ‘flat rate” taxing system, “di na sila mahirapang magkwuenta ng magiging koleksiyon nila. Kung 10 percent, di 10 percent. Mas madali.
Okay, okay, we know how the BIR chaps would answer that: Hindi ganun kadali.
So, which comes first, the chicken or the egg?
Behn Fer. Hortaleza, Jr.
THERE’S something in that seemingly minor news item about Dagupan City’s recently being awarded as one of the Most Competitive Cities in the Philippines for ‘small cities’ category.
The award was conferred on top performing urban centers by the AIM Policy Center in ceremonies at the Intercontinental Hotel in Makati with Vice Mayor Alvin Fernandez and several city aldermen receiving it on Mayor BSL’s behalf
Somewhere in the bottom lines of the news release by the City Information Office, it said the city ranked 31st in terms of the “cost of doing business.”
Now that’s a rather unsettling compliment as there were actually only 37 “small cities” evaluated. That meant we were down in the cellar with five others. But of course in the overall rankings for that category, we still made it among the country’s best.
The question begs: Is doing business in Dagupan really rather “too costly?” Juxtapose this with a news item this week, also from the CIO about the Quezon City treasurer’s discourse to Dagupan officials last week on the “trade secrets” for a robust financial health among cities, foremost of which is an improved (read: more) business tax collections by a local government unit.
Also, put the question alongside the stratospheric taxes and fees being implemented by Dagupan just this year for business permits (thanks but no thanks to the Revised Revenue Code of 2006) and you already probably have the answer—in the affirmative.
We scrutinized every word by the QC bursar in the news item and we seem to have missed reading in them any piece of advice about fiscal restraint on excessive ‘festival expenses’, ‘consultancy service fees’ and ‘donations’ to civic clubs and assorted mendicants among them. Quezon City probably is also doing the same with aplomb, so it can’t afford to shoot its mouth off on that. Or, maybe, shoot its foot is more to the point.
* * * * * * *
One more thing: Treasurer Victor Endriga of Quezon City talked about something like ‘presumptive income level’ as basis for tax rates which, to our layman’s understanding, is simply something like the cops’ “plain view” doctrine in searching houses, establishments or vehicles for inspection. You presume that if you don’t see anything irregular or plain sight, you don’t have to dig deep or ask further.
On the other hand, it could also mean the city and its taxmen have the right to presume you earn this much just by looking at your style of dressing and the places you go to – or the kind of entertainment houses you frequent. Presumptive, see? It’s probably the fancy cousin of the phrase ‘unexplained wealth’.
* * * * * *
Now since we started the subject, we had a talk with a businessman-fellow blogger (if you don’t know that term, ask your friendly computer-junkie or the neighborhood cyber-technology expert) last Thursday and he believes the cumbersome (tiresome, longwinded, confusing) procedures for paying taxes to this government is what’s turning off many from settling their tax obligations, or somehow cheating on these.
“Why not a flat rate applicable to all who fall under the same category, and no more questions asked?, he queried out loud. He cited Vietnam and even we think, Ireland as among the countries that have achieved economic miracles largely due to their ‘practical’ tax laws.
As it is, the internal revenue guys here have become so accustomed to putting so many ifs and buts in their tax rules, a simple tax payer is liable to fall guilty of offenses one way or the other out of sheer ignorance of the rules. When he does, the BIR is only too glad to slap the penalties on him. And the wily accountant besides would only be too happy to “fix” the problem for the confused taxpayer if the price is right. Any which way, the taxpayer gets it in the neck.
Besides, our friend added, with a ‘flat rate” taxing system, “di na sila mahirapang magkwuenta ng magiging koleksiyon nila. Kung 10 percent, di 10 percent. Mas madali.
Okay, okay, we know how the BIR chaps would answer that: Hindi ganun kadali.
So, which comes first, the chicken or the egg?
Opinion: When teachers fight
THE PEN SPEAKS
Danny O. Sagun
TWO sets of documents were furnished us this week in connection with the administrative complaint against Principal Alfredo Calugay of the San Jacinto National High School filed by 20 teachers with the regional office of the Department of Education. One set goes against him while the other set speaks well of the beleaguered school head.
This paper, your favorite weekly this part of the country, earlier carried a story about the complaint filed with the office of the DepEd regional director. The more damaging part of the complaint, we think, was the claim that Calugay allegedly demanded money from new teachers ranging from P3,500 to P5,000 backed up by sworn affidavits.
If true, such allegations only confirm rumors long going around that money changes hands in exchange for plantilla teacher items ranging from P5,000 to as much as P30,000. The only problem is that nobody is willing to come out in the open. Who will, by the way, spill the beans and incriminate himself/herself?
Pangasinan Star being a proponent of fair reporting, carries in this week’s issue the side of the principal as gleaned from the documents he gave this writer thru officemate Briny. We want to stress here that we do not take sides. What we are after is the welfare of the students and the school itself which we think is now so affected by the seeming factionalism and infighting among the teachers and school personnel and even parents themselves.
Those identified with Calugay’s predecessor are now ranged against him while those who got rid of Principal Bautista are now enjoying his company. Both sides though seem to be “comfortable” with us, sort of a compliment to this writer. During Bautista’s time, her enemies sought our help as member of the fourth estate. Now, the other side is also reaching out to us.
Of the five head teachers in school, two are identified with Calugay, while the three heading the core subjects of English, Math, and Science do not see eye to eye with him. We learned that Math head Redentor Aquino is being petitioned by the PTCA for his return to his mother school, San Fabian NHS where he got his item. That’s the price he is getting for going against his boss. Marilou Mangapot of the English department is not getting necessary support for her projects like the recent English Olympics as Calugay seems to favor extra-curricular activities over academics. Science head Francisco Torres got the principal’s goat when he insisted to go on with his own project, Science Camp and Leaders’ Congress, despite Calugay’s cold reception to it.
That is, as far as reports reaching us to date goes. There could also be more than meets the eye in all these, we don’t know.
Not all school personnel there are complaining. In fact a manifesto of support was signed by some 35 teachers and employees, which only shows that the school personnel there are divided to the detriment of the institution and its students.
Why can’t DepEd act with dispatch on the administrative matters like that complaint against him? Until now the department has not disposed of the grave misconduct case he is facing in his former station, Benigno Aldana NHS in Pozorrubio. He was reported to have been in involved in another controversy during his stint in Balungao. Now he is facing this case in his present assignment in our humble town.
We were informed (and he is bragging about it, we were told) he is not new to facing cases filed either in court or his department as he has been the subject of every sort of complaint in all his stations. He must be setting a record of sorts, we must say.
We hope though that our small town which is not bereft of talented professionals including educators may very soon be blessed with a dedicated principal who hails from that town itself. Most important, one who can unite the factions within.
Danny O. Sagun
TWO sets of documents were furnished us this week in connection with the administrative complaint against Principal Alfredo Calugay of the San Jacinto National High School filed by 20 teachers with the regional office of the Department of Education. One set goes against him while the other set speaks well of the beleaguered school head.
This paper, your favorite weekly this part of the country, earlier carried a story about the complaint filed with the office of the DepEd regional director. The more damaging part of the complaint, we think, was the claim that Calugay allegedly demanded money from new teachers ranging from P3,500 to P5,000 backed up by sworn affidavits.
If true, such allegations only confirm rumors long going around that money changes hands in exchange for plantilla teacher items ranging from P5,000 to as much as P30,000. The only problem is that nobody is willing to come out in the open. Who will, by the way, spill the beans and incriminate himself/herself?
Pangasinan Star being a proponent of fair reporting, carries in this week’s issue the side of the principal as gleaned from the documents he gave this writer thru officemate Briny. We want to stress here that we do not take sides. What we are after is the welfare of the students and the school itself which we think is now so affected by the seeming factionalism and infighting among the teachers and school personnel and even parents themselves.
Those identified with Calugay’s predecessor are now ranged against him while those who got rid of Principal Bautista are now enjoying his company. Both sides though seem to be “comfortable” with us, sort of a compliment to this writer. During Bautista’s time, her enemies sought our help as member of the fourth estate. Now, the other side is also reaching out to us.
Of the five head teachers in school, two are identified with Calugay, while the three heading the core subjects of English, Math, and Science do not see eye to eye with him. We learned that Math head Redentor Aquino is being petitioned by the PTCA for his return to his mother school, San Fabian NHS where he got his item. That’s the price he is getting for going against his boss. Marilou Mangapot of the English department is not getting necessary support for her projects like the recent English Olympics as Calugay seems to favor extra-curricular activities over academics. Science head Francisco Torres got the principal’s goat when he insisted to go on with his own project, Science Camp and Leaders’ Congress, despite Calugay’s cold reception to it.
That is, as far as reports reaching us to date goes. There could also be more than meets the eye in all these, we don’t know.
Not all school personnel there are complaining. In fact a manifesto of support was signed by some 35 teachers and employees, which only shows that the school personnel there are divided to the detriment of the institution and its students.
Why can’t DepEd act with dispatch on the administrative matters like that complaint against him? Until now the department has not disposed of the grave misconduct case he is facing in his former station, Benigno Aldana NHS in Pozorrubio. He was reported to have been in involved in another controversy during his stint in Balungao. Now he is facing this case in his present assignment in our humble town.
We were informed (and he is bragging about it, we were told) he is not new to facing cases filed either in court or his department as he has been the subject of every sort of complaint in all his stations. He must be setting a record of sorts, we must say.
We hope though that our small town which is not bereft of talented professionals including educators may very soon be blessed with a dedicated principal who hails from that town itself. Most important, one who can unite the factions within.
Opinion: Micro-financing
Smorgsboard
Liway C. Manantan-Yparraguirre
IMAGINE a bank that offers loan with no collaterals required other than the signature of four other people aside from that of the borrower?
There is already one in Davao and its operation is quite successful, said House Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr.
He announced last Saturday morning during the distribution of Philhealth cards to indigent recipients (held at the Dagupan City National High School gym) they will put up such a financing facility here in Dagupan.
JDV said work is underway for the establishment of a micro-financing bank in Dagupan. It will be the first such bank in the fourth district, and it will be owned by the people. If successful, it will be duplicated in other areas in Pangasinan and in the country.
The objective in putting up a micro finance bank is to make it easier for people who don't own a house or a lot secure loan. It is one wayof encouraging Filipinos to become entrepreneurs.
The sad fact really in our country is, no matter how eager a person is in starting a business if he doesn’t have enough money to begin with, it will remain in the drawing board. You cannot secure a loan at commercial or rural banks as collaterals will be needed.
Last year some local media practitioners were invited to the "product launching" of a commercial bank. They were offering loans to entrepreneurs. Their start up capital however should be P3 million and up for them to be able to avail of the program. Asked whether they have any package for entrepreneurs whose capital is below P1 million, sad to say they have none.
That explains perhaps why some borrow from bombays (and other 5-6 lenders) despite the very high interest because they have no choice.
So this project of JDV will be of great help to those who are raring and eager to become entrepreneurs but are prevented by lack of seed capital.
"One condition that I will impose is that there be no collateral from the borrowers. Ang kailangan lang ng borrower ay pirma and apat ng kaibigan o kakilala. Pag di siya nakabayad, ang hahabulin ay yong apat. There will be peer pressure, there is a commonality of interest at mas may disiplina. Yong mga tao na walang bahay at lupa makakautang sila," he explained.
JDV said this is the secret for breaking the prison walls of poverty. “This is the secret for creating the beginnings of a Filipino or an Asian middle class.
The Speaker said he and Pres. Arroyo are pushing for the establishment of micro finance institutions. In fact, he had done initial talks with the governor of the Central Bank of the Philippines on this.
"This is one way of encouraging the people to become entrepreneurs. We will create an army of Filipino entrepreneurs (the target is 1 million to 5 million entrepreneurs). An army of Filipino entrepreneurs who will move from poverty to join the ranks of middle class," he explained.
He cited what happened in China which with around 400 million people rising from poverty to join the ranks of the middle class.
“It is the largest economic transformation in human history done in the last 20 years. That's what i would also like to do in Pangasinan and in the country."
I personally would like to see the realization of this project because there are so many business-minded people who would like to start business or improve/expand their existing business but could not do so for lack of fund.
Addto that the increasing prices of commodities and the rate increase in electricity, LPG and water and consumption.
****
Congratulations to the newly promoted police officers in Pangasinan, from the rank of Chief Inspector (major) to Superintendent (colonel). They are Supts. Harries Fama (head of the Pangasinan Anti-Illegal Drugs Special Operations Task Group and provincial police information officer), Policarpio C. Cayabyab Jr. (Calasiao police chief), Mateo Casupang (Sta. Barbara police chief), Genaro Sapiera (San Fabian police chief), and Roger Danoli of the provincial police intelligence division.
Liway C. Manantan-Yparraguirre
IMAGINE a bank that offers loan with no collaterals required other than the signature of four other people aside from that of the borrower?
There is already one in Davao and its operation is quite successful, said House Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr.
He announced last Saturday morning during the distribution of Philhealth cards to indigent recipients (held at the Dagupan City National High School gym) they will put up such a financing facility here in Dagupan.
JDV said work is underway for the establishment of a micro-financing bank in Dagupan. It will be the first such bank in the fourth district, and it will be owned by the people. If successful, it will be duplicated in other areas in Pangasinan and in the country.
The objective in putting up a micro finance bank is to make it easier for people who don't own a house or a lot secure loan. It is one wayof encouraging Filipinos to become entrepreneurs.
The sad fact really in our country is, no matter how eager a person is in starting a business if he doesn’t have enough money to begin with, it will remain in the drawing board. You cannot secure a loan at commercial or rural banks as collaterals will be needed.
Last year some local media practitioners were invited to the "product launching" of a commercial bank. They were offering loans to entrepreneurs. Their start up capital however should be P3 million and up for them to be able to avail of the program. Asked whether they have any package for entrepreneurs whose capital is below P1 million, sad to say they have none.
That explains perhaps why some borrow from bombays (and other 5-6 lenders) despite the very high interest because they have no choice.
So this project of JDV will be of great help to those who are raring and eager to become entrepreneurs but are prevented by lack of seed capital.
"One condition that I will impose is that there be no collateral from the borrowers. Ang kailangan lang ng borrower ay pirma and apat ng kaibigan o kakilala. Pag di siya nakabayad, ang hahabulin ay yong apat. There will be peer pressure, there is a commonality of interest at mas may disiplina. Yong mga tao na walang bahay at lupa makakautang sila," he explained.
JDV said this is the secret for breaking the prison walls of poverty. “This is the secret for creating the beginnings of a Filipino or an Asian middle class.
The Speaker said he and Pres. Arroyo are pushing for the establishment of micro finance institutions. In fact, he had done initial talks with the governor of the Central Bank of the Philippines on this.
"This is one way of encouraging the people to become entrepreneurs. We will create an army of Filipino entrepreneurs (the target is 1 million to 5 million entrepreneurs). An army of Filipino entrepreneurs who will move from poverty to join the ranks of middle class," he explained.
He cited what happened in China which with around 400 million people rising from poverty to join the ranks of the middle class.
“It is the largest economic transformation in human history done in the last 20 years. That's what i would also like to do in Pangasinan and in the country."
I personally would like to see the realization of this project because there are so many business-minded people who would like to start business or improve/expand their existing business but could not do so for lack of fund.
Addto that the increasing prices of commodities and the rate increase in electricity, LPG and water and consumption.
****
Congratulations to the newly promoted police officers in Pangasinan, from the rank of Chief Inspector (major) to Superintendent (colonel). They are Supts. Harries Fama (head of the Pangasinan Anti-Illegal Drugs Special Operations Task Group and provincial police information officer), Policarpio C. Cayabyab Jr. (Calasiao police chief), Mateo Casupang (Sta. Barbara police chief), Genaro Sapiera (San Fabian police chief), and Roger Danoli of the provincial police intelligence division.
Opinion: Deception
WINDOWS
Gabriel L. Cardinoza
Until now, the controversial photo showing Alaminos City Mayor Nani Braganza seated beside President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo during the opening of the Private Schools Athletic Association national games in Lingayen town is still the talk of the town, and lately, of the cyberspace.
This is because the photo, which was published in the sports page of the Philippine Star two weeks ago, was digitally tampered. Those who covered the PRISAA opening – and the photos taken by other photographers – attest that Nani was never seated beside the President. He was in fact in the upper tier of that grandstand and was seated beside Dagupan City Mayor Benjamin Lim at that time. The President then was sandwiched by Gov. Victor Agbayani (to her right) and PRISAA chair, Dr. Emmanuel Angeles.
What was more surprising is that the photo came out despite the Philippine Star’s having two photographers during the event. Outraged and apprehensive, Star photographer Cesar Ramirez immediately called the attention of his editor to complain about the “wrong” photo and to seek an explanation why it happened. Cesar had feared that he might be accused by the governor of deliberately erasing him in the photo. In a chance meeting with the governor during the observance of the PNP Anniversary at the police provincial office that day, Cesar was told: “O, baka putulin na naman ang ulo ko.”
Cesar and colleague Eva Visperas were also hoping to have a confrontation with Nani, who was one of those who were to receive an award that day, but he was a no show. Until now, Nani has been silent about it.
The discussions on the publication of the tampered photo had revolved on media ethics and on the liability of Nani Braganza or the one who edited the photo and sent it to the Star. Should the Star issue an erratum, or should it apologize for the mistake? Should the Star simply blacklist the sender of the photo or should it file a criminal case?
Clearly, the photo not only smacks of bad taste but it was an absolute deception. Was it meant to project that Nani was still very close to the President when in fact he has fallen from her graces? Was it meant to project that Nani will be the next Pangasinan governor?
Baguio-based blogger Frank Cimatu (http://unholyhours.blogspot.com) commented:
“The weird thing was that Braganza used to be PGMA's Press Secretary. Did he allow these things to happen then? He was also member of the Spice Boys, PGMA's favorite boy toys.
“Braganza is reportedly interested in Agbayani's job. Hmmmmmmm. This is the first step? This reminds me of David King's book, "The Commissar Vanishes" which is about photo manipulation during the time of Stalin in Russia.
“This is what David King wrote: "Skillful photographic retouching for reproduction depended, like any craft before the advent of computer technology, on the skill of the person carrying out the task and the time she or he had to complete it. But why was the standard of retouching in Soviet books and journals often so crude? Did the Stalinists want their readers to see that elimination had taken place, as a fearful and ominous warning? Or could the slightest trace of an almost vanished commissar, deliberately left behind by the retoucher, become a ghostly reminder that the repressed might yet return?"
Interesting parallelism. But to my mind, the tampered photo exposed that Nani is a political lameduck in Pangasinan. If you’re strong, why need a President to lean on?
Nani should issue a public apology and fire whoever was responsible in putting him in an embarrassing situation.
Gabriel L. Cardinoza
Until now, the controversial photo showing Alaminos City Mayor Nani Braganza seated beside President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo during the opening of the Private Schools Athletic Association national games in Lingayen town is still the talk of the town, and lately, of the cyberspace.
This is because the photo, which was published in the sports page of the Philippine Star two weeks ago, was digitally tampered. Those who covered the PRISAA opening – and the photos taken by other photographers – attest that Nani was never seated beside the President. He was in fact in the upper tier of that grandstand and was seated beside Dagupan City Mayor Benjamin Lim at that time. The President then was sandwiched by Gov. Victor Agbayani (to her right) and PRISAA chair, Dr. Emmanuel Angeles.
What was more surprising is that the photo came out despite the Philippine Star’s having two photographers during the event. Outraged and apprehensive, Star photographer Cesar Ramirez immediately called the attention of his editor to complain about the “wrong” photo and to seek an explanation why it happened. Cesar had feared that he might be accused by the governor of deliberately erasing him in the photo. In a chance meeting with the governor during the observance of the PNP Anniversary at the police provincial office that day, Cesar was told: “O, baka putulin na naman ang ulo ko.”
Cesar and colleague Eva Visperas were also hoping to have a confrontation with Nani, who was one of those who were to receive an award that day, but he was a no show. Until now, Nani has been silent about it.
The discussions on the publication of the tampered photo had revolved on media ethics and on the liability of Nani Braganza or the one who edited the photo and sent it to the Star. Should the Star issue an erratum, or should it apologize for the mistake? Should the Star simply blacklist the sender of the photo or should it file a criminal case?
Clearly, the photo not only smacks of bad taste but it was an absolute deception. Was it meant to project that Nani was still very close to the President when in fact he has fallen from her graces? Was it meant to project that Nani will be the next Pangasinan governor?
Baguio-based blogger Frank Cimatu (http://unholyhours.blogspot.com) commented:
“The weird thing was that Braganza used to be PGMA's Press Secretary. Did he allow these things to happen then? He was also member of the Spice Boys, PGMA's favorite boy toys.
“Braganza is reportedly interested in Agbayani's job. Hmmmmmmm. This is the first step? This reminds me of David King's book, "The Commissar Vanishes" which is about photo manipulation during the time of Stalin in Russia.
“This is what David King wrote: "Skillful photographic retouching for reproduction depended, like any craft before the advent of computer technology, on the skill of the person carrying out the task and the time she or he had to complete it. But why was the standard of retouching in Soviet books and journals often so crude? Did the Stalinists want their readers to see that elimination had taken place, as a fearful and ominous warning? Or could the slightest trace of an almost vanished commissar, deliberately left behind by the retoucher, become a ghostly reminder that the repressed might yet return?"
Interesting parallelism. But to my mind, the tampered photo exposed that Nani is a political lameduck in Pangasinan. If you’re strong, why need a President to lean on?
Nani should issue a public apology and fire whoever was responsible in putting him in an embarrassing situation.
