The
CAGAYANTIMES d e O ro
Your Weekly Lifestyle Newspaper
P10.00
Vol. 1 | No.17 | Cagayan de Oro City | December 2-8, 2012
SEDA Centrio introduces Urban Lifestyle Experience a feature by MIKE BAÑOS
A
yalaLand Hotels and Resorts Corporation reboots the book on hospitality excellence with its new line of Seda (“Silk”) Hotels that aims to bring the Makati urban lifestyle experience to the regions. During the Nov. 9 launch of Centrio Mall, Andrea Mastellone, Seda Group General Manager said the new Seda Hotels collection of AHRC is the first line of urban lifestyle hotels in the country that aims to bring together style, comfort and value in one destination. Seda is also the first set of hotels to be operated and owned by AyalaLand, developer of the Philippines’ top master-planned, mixed-use communities. “Seda Hotels enjoy superior location advantages over competition, making it an ideal choice for the
contemporary business and leisure traveler,” said Mr. Mastellone. “Seda hotels are found in prime emerging cities and developments such as Bonifacio Global City in Taguig, Davao City, Cagayan de Oro City, and NUVALI in Sta. Rosa, Laguna with a total of 628 rooms.” “The Seda Hotel collection offers a new experience in hospitality: the Urban Lifestyle Hotel. We provide comfort and value for tech savvy customers of the digital generation with our modern amenities and latest technology,” said Melissa J. Carlos, Group Director of Sales
and Marketing. “Each hotel fuses contemporary design with the local vibe to create an inviting mix of relaxation, play and work. Thus, while every hotel displays Seda’s trademark style and service, each has its distinct personality.” Scheduled to open next month, Seda Centrio is nestled within the 3.7-hectare Centrio complex in downtown Cagayan de Oro, an easy elevator ride away from Centrio Mall’s 300 retail and dining establishments and only 30 minutes from Lumbia airport. Designed by Rchitects, Inc. and C. T. Onglao Architects, it will have a total of 150 stylish but cozy guestrooms, consisting of 136 standard rooms (28 sq.m.) and 14 premier deluxe (35 sq.m.). SEDA | Page 10
SUNRISER unveils 2 new bikes
Story on Page 5
SEDA CENTRIO Visible from the Centrio Mall Garden. Photo by Vincent Tom Udasco
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DOCTORING THE LAW... story on page 2
MALUNGAY PASTEL... page 10
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| December 2-8, 2012
The
CAGAYANTIMES d e O ro
MetroSpect
Doctoring the Law ignites ‘musical show for a cause’ By Christine H. Cabiasa
A
DOC. MAVY de leon
Atty. Sam Tan
PressCon Photos by RONALD MASTAIL
benjie s. manuel
owen jaen
s much as we want to showcase our talents through this musicale for a cause, we want to help and reach out for breast cancer patients and throw awareness to the city that these people (breast cancer patients and survivors) need extra attention to supplement their financial, psychological, and social needs; further to entertain and sustain. These words blown my silence as I was listening to Doctoring the Law forerunners, Atty. Sam Tan and Dr. Mavy De Leon’s response when asked by the members of the press why they decided to conceptualize the show. “We want to help and something must be done to these breast cancer patients”, Atty. Tan stressed. Doctoring the Law is a special musical production for the benefit of Thrive CDO, a non-stock, non-profit organization aimed to create awareness on breast cancer and help breast cancer patients at large to stage on December 15 at Rodelsa Hall, Liceo de Cagayan University. Aside from putting good use of a musical concert through a charitable event,
this will be the first time also for the two professionals, Atty. Tan and Dr. De Leon to collaborate in a production. They have had private engagements and appearances as guest performers but this will be their first time to be seen performing in public. Atty. Sam Tan is a lawyer, businessman, and a thespian. His experience in theatre includes stints with the Centro Escolar University Dramatic Guild and trainings with the Repertory Philippines and Tanghalang Pilipino and has performed in the Oro’s staging of Eve Ensler’s The Vagina Monologues. Further, Doctoring the Law’ advocacy is very close to Atty. Tan as he personally advocates the fight against cancer after losing both of his parents because of cancer. On the other hand, Dr. Mavy De Leon is a top-notch nurse and a medical doctor, a fashion designer, model, and a performance artist. Dr. Mavy’s decision to team up with Atty. Sam connotes a special attention for he is aware also of the plight of women in fighting cancer after
years of being in the medical world. Dr. Mavy has always been also an artist and a performer during her college years. With the artists’ heart on breast cancer patients, they did not think twice in choosing Thrive CDO. Thrive CDO works in partnering with local government units, schools and other interested organizations on bringing women’s health care services, particularly for affordable or free breast cancer screening and surgery to indigent patients. Alongside with it, the group’s mission is to present facts, dispel myths and provide information on healthcare providers for breast cancer patients in the community, thus educating the public on breast cancer. Doctoring the Law is directed by Owen Jaen with script by Arlyn Baqui and musical arrangement by Neil Go. It is a must-watch. You will be entertained at the same time you can help breast cancer patients as proceeds of the show will be given to them. Donations amounts to a minimum of P300 and up.
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| December 2-8, 2012
The
CAGAYANTIMES d e O ro
City Lite
GMA Network to invest P100M for new CDO Station To Launch Primetime Newscast in 2 months Story and Photos by MIKE BAÑOS
T
cannot keep Northern Mindanao down,” Ms. Escudero stressed. Cagayan de Oro rose to its feet and we know this to be true because our sales this year improved from last year, despite Sendong by, we reckon, a healthy 60%.”
“
Flood waters cannot keep Northern Mindanao down
GMA Network Stars & Executives with Cagayan de Oro’s Print Media Group
VIP Guests Gil Macaiba
he Kapuso Network is coming in Big in Cagayan de Oro and Northern Mindanao. In its annual Trade Thanksgiving Party held last November 20 at the N Hotel, Rikki O. Escudero, Vice President for Regional TV and Head for Expansion and Production Services announced GMA Network would soon be constructing an originating station in Cagayan de Oro. “Tonight, I am proud to announce that GMA Network will build its newest Originating Station with its own studio capable of churning out original programs-- for Northern Mindanao,” Ms. Escudero said. “We will be investing close to 100 million pesos for this facility which will be based in CDO. On top of the new station, Ms. Escudero said GMA Network would also be launching its afternoon “Serbisyong Totoo” Primetime Newscast “in a little over 2 months – and we will be covering news not only in CDO but also nearby Iligan, Bukidnon and Ozamiz. This is our way of saying we believe in Northern Mindanao, its people and its future.” Since its satellite station was launched in 2009, Ms. Escudero said tremendous growth has always been the hallmark of GMA in Cagayan de Oro. From its 205 percent growth in 2009, GMA Cagayan de Oro exceeded sales targets by 52% in 2010 and again by 53% in 2011. “Flood waters
y and Cathy Tan
”
The GMA executive said “this bionic economic recovery proves just how resilient CdeO and Northern Mindanao are. This resiliency is because of its people. All of you here today are the driving force that made Northern Mindanao and CdeO overcome and triumph over the ravages of Sendong. How can GMA Network not long to be part of this success story?” In a show worthy of the country’s leading broadcast network, GMA pulled out all the stops with production numbers featuring allgirl pop trio La Diva and local heart throb Mark Bautista. First established for the show SOP, La Diva boasts of two winners and a runner-up of Pinoy Pop Superstar, Jonalyn Viray, Aicelle Santos, and Maricris Garcia. Hosted by Kapuso Network Contract Star Chynna Ortaleza, the event was also graced by top network execs VP for Sales and Marketing
Regional TV Oliver Victor B. Amoroso, Asst. Vice President for Regional News Cel Rosales-Amores, Senior Program Manager for Regional Entertainment Jocelyn Bautista-Pacleb and GMA Cagayan de Oro Station Manager Armi E. Sobremisana. Local celebrities also graced the occasion led by Cagayan de Oro Tourism Board Chair Rhia Rita Abalos, Cathy Tan of Iligan City’s legendary Cheding’s Roasted Peanuts, Mags Cue of mags , Cagayan de Oro’s signature fashion store, Misamis Oriental Provincial Board Member Jimmy Caiña, BusinessWeek Mindanao Group of Publications Media Mogul Dante Sudaria and his lieutenants Allan Mediante and Joe Felicilda, Ruchelle Bangis of Mindanao Gold Star Daily, Pat Noel of the Iligan City Tourism Office, SunStar Cagayan de Oro’s Nicole Managbanag and Joey Nacalaban, STEAG State Power Inc. Communications Officer Jerome R. Soldevilla and his guest from Germany Hasan Guerpinar, Corporate Communications Officer of Hitachi Germany. “For those of you who came tonight, know that GMA Network is here to celebrate Northern Mindanao’s recovery and together, we will work hand in hand to realize the dream of a progressive Northern Mindanao, where the flow of progress is as free as the flow of information,” Ms. Escudero said in closing.
GMA’s La Diva
Even Our Host for the
ing: Ms. Chynna
Ortaleza
GMA Isyu Karon CDO onstage
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December 2-8, 2012
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Feature
Sunriser launches two new bikes
T
aking its way to continued success in the motorcycle industry, Norkis Trading Corp. celebrates their 50th anniversary and part of it is bringing in the limelight Sunriser Wonderbike two new motorcycle models Primo-S and Hembre-R on November 28 at Park Mall, Cebu City. “There is a growing demand for affordable yet superior motorcycles in the Philippines. Our new models bridge the gap between price and quality”, Nilo Pamutongan, Sunriser senior managing head for sales and marketing said. Sunriser Manufacturing
Corp. has been operating in the country for eight years and is an affiliate of Norkis and Luoyang Northern EK Chor Motorcycle Co. Ltd, a joint business venture in motorcycle manufacturing. According to Pamutongan, their annual motorcycle sales reaches 10,000 units, with their best seller SR 100 A lpha contributing about 28 percent of total sales. Bulk of the sales comes from the Visayas and Mindanao, with Cebu as a potential market as indicated by its growing population and the influx of BPO companies. “Business creates
more jobs. The labor force, especially in the corporate area, has more capacity to purchase vehicles. This scenario leads to more opportunities for the motorcycle industry”, Pamutongan added. With its 66 branches and 150 authorized dealers nationwide, Sunriser Wonderbike aims to become the leader in the motorcycle trade in the Philippines. “The features and looks of our products are almost the same with those from China and Japan but customers are 100 percent guaranteed that our price corresponds to durability”, Pamutongan said.
Norberto Quisumbing, Jr., Chairman-Norkis Group of Companies
NILO PAMUTONGAN
SUNRISER Senior Managing Head for Sales & Marketing
WU ZHEN-HONG
Luoyang Northern General Manager
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| December 2-8, 2012
The
CAGAYANTIMES d e O ro
Points
of
Health IN focus
ALA MODE
by: Dr. Mary Jean Loreche
by OWEN JAEN
When You Share...
T
o take part of something bigger makes one’s existence even worthwhile. To give a portion of our selves for the good of others is an act of kindness that will spark a chain of goodness in the world. One reason to give is when there is a dire need. Take for example donating during calamities, people feel compelled to share because they see the drastic change in status quo. Without question, people shell out money from their pockets, pack clothes and instant food and send them to drop-off points. They either give for the sake of giving or to feel good about fulfilling the act itself. But do we really have to wait for calamities to occur before we stand up for something? Hopefully not! To give even when there is no immediate need yet is better. It will allow a
better chance to sustain and provide more opportunities to help more people. Liceo de Cagayan University for instance created one office that allows all of us with the same cause to band together and inspire positive change in the community. The Philanthropic Development Office (PDO) came up with “One with You” to help sustain and develop the three major advocacies of the university mainly – environment, education and culture. One with You hopes to raise funds for scholars and help them not just in their academic needs but their daily sustenance as well. Lunch programs, dormitory for the deserving young students and a no tuition fee increase fund are just more of the causes they want to realize via Rodolfo N. Pelaez Foundation. They are also planning to further make sustainable projects
View
for the environment and continue what they have started through Safer River Life Saver Foundation, Inc. For those who are culture buffs, One with You aims to provide free shows at the Rodelsa Hall to allow more to have access in the arts. It will also provide free art workshops in the communities. You can take part in One with You by actively donating through the PDO. Every little contribution counts. When you share, you provide others a chance of a better future. How about sparing some of yourself and take part in this movement? Know more about One with You by logging on to www.facebook.com/pdo. liceo or you may reach the Philanthropic Development Office at (088) 8584093 to 95 local 249. M a k e e v e r y o n e ’s Christmas truly merry! Cheers!
The
CAGAYANTIMES d e O ro
PWD’s: In a Manner of Speaking
I
t is not an uncommon sight to see around us or to have a close encounter with persons who may have one or two disabilities. Many of us even require their services. I had a guest one time who brought his entire family for a vacation here in the city of boom and bloom , that, after a fun filled adventure with white river rafting and the zip zone, all in one day, went to Divisoria and according to him, enjoyed a foot massage at a very minimal cost! He and his family were all praises for our Blind Masseurs. Our Kababayans who make use of whatever they are capable of doing, to earn a living, is worth our admiration. And respect. But, sad to say, there are still some of us who hasn’t reached that level of intelligence and education or maybe VALUES, when it comes to treatment of this special group of members in our society. A friend of mine, who met an accident and had to use a cane to help keep her balance when walking or standing, while crossing the street had the bad experience of being laughed at: not by teenagers but by people who were supposed to be considered as mature and wise for age. A person with disability is
one who may be suffering from physical, mental, or sensory defects that hampers his/ her ability to perform certain tasks that normal people do. Disabilities are classified as either a visual or hearing impairment or both. It can also be in the form of physical, mental or intellectual disability. Muteness, or an overlap of any of the above are likewise considered a disability. Visual impairments top the list in terms of number of affected persons, accounting for 46% of cases. This is followed by physical disabilities at 15%. Whether the disability is congenital ( born with the defect ) or acquired , it is no respecter of age or sex or educational attainment or social status. Meaning, a disability can affect any one of us or a loved one. The highest numbers though is in the age bracket 60 and above. Laws that aim to protect the rights of our PWD’s are actually in place. A Ma g n a C a r t a f o r disabled persons and various organizations, both government and Non Government are in existence. Efforts towards ensuring that this sector of our society is granted equal treatment, equal access to opportunities is very laudable.
Despite these programs, the stigma or discriminations attached to a disability is still palpable. This is where a Community Based Rehabilitation (CBR) approach to address the concerns and problems that face our PWD’s is most needed. This being a multi-sectoral strategy, with the community, family, and persons with the disability themselves actively involved in the planning and implementation of programs, the success rate is more assured. Involvement means commitment. Allowing our PWD’s to join the mainstream society, will boost their morale and encourage them to do their best, in contributing to the labor work force, or in any gainful employment. Our PWD’s may need special assistance in order to move around, but their healthcare and emotional needs are as important too. A show of respect and acceptance for another’s disability, in whatever form and manner, is a way of helping keep the dignity of that person. And, to those who may be suffering from a disability, maximizing what you have, in order to live and enjoy life to the fullest, and in rendering service to others, is, as noble a profession as that of a whole person…
CAGAYAN TIMES Publisher ROSE MARY D. SUDARIA General Manager SHAUN ALEJANDRAE YAP UY Editor-in-Chief RONALD MASTAIL Associate Editor | Art Director ARJAY FELICILDA JUSTINE LLANO CHRISTINE CABIASA DYON KARLO AGUILLON ROSELYN PAGLINAWAN MARIEL IGOT Correspondents NELSON CONSTANTINO RUEL PELONE ALLAN MEDIANTE JOE DEL PUERTO FELICILDA Editorial Consultants PINKY DOMINGO CADAVEDO Marketing Manager ATTY. MARIO T. JUNI ATTY. ROBERTO A. CANTAGO, JR. Legal Counsels
The CAGAYAN de ORO TIMES newspaper is published weekly at FICCO Bldg., Lapasan Hi-way, with the editorial office at Tanleh Bldg., Abellanosa St., Cagayan de Oro City. It is registered with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Region 10 with Certificate No. 01801884, and with Business Permit No. 17211 Find us on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/CagayandeOroTIMES Follow us on Twitter: @TheCDOTIMES
WORDS & NOTES by DEBBIE CABAGUE
The Joy in performing and teaching
I
dream to be a Christian recording artist, composing and singing inspirational songs that will give life, encouragement, and courage or healing to everyone surrounding me. I dream that my students will be quality performers with good character as well. These are my visions that give me the joy and help me endure the hardships in performing and teaching.
Joy in performing... I started to train in singing while I was still in high school but got to fully develop my own gift in my last two years in college. And even until now, I still do training for sustainability and new techniques. I became a wedding performer still way back in college with my former music hub G'Clef Musical Society. After my my college days I still continued to be active in the group for almost Two more years but then by word of mouth individual clients began to hire me as a solo singer for various
events. I actually got used to the choir and live accompaniment so I asked two of my close musician friends to join me, thus D'blends was born. We were always singing for weddings so I personally fell in love with it. I like singing relaxing music because it soothes the nerves. It calms me and the people around. Other than weddings, I also sing in other events but singing for weddings will always have a special part in me, though I know this will not be forever because as God leads me I know it is my training ground for something greater soon. I have joy in performing because the love of music and singing for others was always there from the start. Joy in teaching... Believe it or not, I have never imagined myself to be teaching in my wildest dreams. The teaching opportunity came two years ago.
Honestly speaking I didn't have any experience in teaching kids; I handled adult groups and all I knew was I have to play with kids, as my mentor advised me. True enough I did play with them and to my surprise I enjoyed it and eventually loved teaching the little ones. I t was only one year after that I realized it is actually my calling to teach voice , upon the realization I began to embrace the profession. I know I still have a lot to improve in my musical knowledge and skills and God is equipping me one step at a time. Yes I often face difficulties but God always gives me the solution to every difficulty. So there's nothing to be afraid of. As I have told my mentor before leaving my former group … “It is time for me to spread my wings and fly...” and I'm glad I did. I am Joyful in what I do because of love, passion and obedience to His call in my life. As the song goes I couldn't ask for more...
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December 2-8, 2012
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Around NorthMin DOLE continues conduct on Technical Safety Inspection By: Mildred E. Dablio, Labor Communications Officer Cagayan de Oro City --- Technical Safety Inspection, conducted annually by DOLE’s technicallyequipped engineers, is one of the programs of the Department to look into private establishments to be occupationally safe, especially for their workers. This was reported by Regional Director Johnson G. Cañete, following the receipt of reports from DOLE’s technical health and safety engineers over their inspection of Del
Monte Philippines, Inc. (DMPI), an exportoriented company of the Philippines, located in Bugo, this city. The report gave DMPI a full check-up of their five (5) boilers, six (6) electrical equipment, nine (9) internal combustion engines, and twentythree (23) unfired pressure vessels. Thus a safe environment for the workers is assured. The Law on Labor Standards and Social Legislation (Article 165 on Occupational
Safety and Health) states that DOLE is authorized to collect reasonable fees for the inspection of steam boilers, pressure vessels and pipings and electrical installations, test and approval for safe use of materials, equipment and other safety devices and the approval of plans for such materials, equipment and devices. Covered establishments are those using these installations/ equipment.
Meanwhile, establishments like DMPI, who are under the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), also adhere to PEZA’s labor standard laws in accordance with the Labor Code. They are correspondingly inspected by PEZA in line with DOLE’s mutual concern for industrial peace and harmony. PEZA will continue to coordinate with DOLE on this matter. Aside from inspecting on these said equipment, DOLE
also makes sure that appropriate PPEs are worn by workers, especially those in the construction industry. In confined work spaces, where noxious or hazardous substances are used, gas masks are a requirement to prevent cardiovascular and upper body poisoning. Whereas safety belts should be worn for those working 6 feet and below, while safety harness is required for above 6 feet.
Devouring a classic success with a modern twist (The Mesa- The Filipino Moderne Fricassee) Story & Photos By Christine H. Cabiasa
Ricky Dy, Mesa owner responds with a smile to questions threw by the members of the media.
Diners happily savoring Mesa’s best menus inside the house.
It has been every little Filipino’s favorite to make inroads on the love for eating and the love for classic food, be it confined from west or north or from the east’s amour. Everybody loves to eat and loves to experience new touches on typical dishes. Everybody loves to savor menus foreign in their taste buds. Furthermore, everybody loves this so called stew-sizzled fricassee for time-honored Filipino delicacies served with a modern twist. Now, green light for Kagay-anons as Mesa-The Filipino Moderne fried their way to the City of Golden Friendship bringing mouth-watering cuisines as they opened their first branch at Centrio Mall. “It is actually the passion for food”, Ricky Dy, owner of Mesa confessed when asked how Mesa was conceptualized. He flew from Manila just to witness the grand opening of his 15th Mesa branch in the city. Mesa was originally pictured as La Mesa with its first resto along Greenbelt established in 2009 with customers allowed to prepare their ordered menus sizzling hot in their respective
dining tables. “La Mesa because simply Filipinos eat in the ‘mesa’, Dy stressed. In the limelight of success Later on it was shortened to “Mesa” as patrons bid to have their preferred dishes ready in their dining tables. It does not hindered Mesa owners to expand their business and commitment to serve quality Filipino classics yet urged them to do more and served more. “We do reengineer new menus”, Dy said. Making new bills of fare for changing customers drew more add ups to Mesa. As they say, business is business yet “being focused on what you do” will bring you to this seven-lettered elusive word called success. Now, Dy has 38 resto units, 80 fast food chains, two high-end restos, institutional accounts, and mall developments nationwide. “I can consider having 15 branches of Mesa in the country as one of my greatest achievements but it is just one of those”, Dy avowed. Good thing Mesa is in Cagayan de Oro, now you can
taste and experience classic Filipino foods refined with a modern touch with our various way of presenting one-of-akind dishes~ Ricky Dy. At the height of everyone’s enjoyment guzzling up Mesa’s best, three-fold observation in the eyes of the owner, the franchiser Mags Cue, and the diners. The owner has this wide hope that Mesa in the city will be patronized by the Kagay-anons and will truly preserve Filipinos best through time; the franchiser has this vision to expand the store in the neighboring cities and towns of Cagayan de Oro as it was ignited in the city and will continue the mother branch’s commitment on serving quality foods to the Filipino people; the diners (one is this writer) has this perception that people will catch Mesa’s best in response to their commitment. Honestly, with silverplattered served dishes at reasonable prices, you can cry your heart out in deep satisfaction and happiness. Satisfaction on the foods being served and unfathomable
happiness when shared with family and friends topped it all. I’ve been to many restos and grills yet as to this time’s publication, I assure you Mesa is the best so far. It’s as if I’m in Greenbelt, from its cozy ambiance to the welltrained crews, you can say “Ang sarap balik-balikan”. You’ll get stacked on your chairs when you dine at Mesa. I’m running out of words on how to further describe Mesa yet one thing is for sure, no words can describe it. It’s best for family and other social gatherings. You can assure quality dishes, top appetizers, never-been-tasted sea foods presentations, eyes-breaking desserts and coolers, and fitfor-king gratifying meat and fishes menus. Experience classic Filipino food with a modern twist at Mesa- The Filipino Moderne, Ground Floor, Centrio Mall. Your taste buds will be cut as those aforementioned words reached your tongue, dine at Mesa and mind you maybe you can write a whole of yellow paper reviews for Mesa, all thumbs up.
Rondalla Circle of Liceo U serenading the diners with classic Filipino songs.
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| December 2-8, 2012
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CAGAYANTIMES d e O ro
Corp News A BROWN SCHOLARS ARE PROUD IPs OF BUKIDNON
EARLY X’MAS GIFT FROM A BROWN. A smiling plantation worker, one of the 400 plantation-based workers of ABERDI happily receives one sack rice, a gift from Dr. Walter W. Brown, chair of A Brown Group of Companies. Turning over the gift in Kaanibungan, Kalabugao, Impasug-ong, Bukidnon are: HR Manager Vivien Lawansa (right), and Secretary to the VP Karen Cabigon.
CAGAYAN DE ORO --True to its vision of being an enterprise working towards enlightened and happier communities, A Brown Group of Companies has embarked on a noble task of helping provide tertiary education to six deserving Higaonon students presently enrol le d at Bukidnon State University (BSU) in Malaybalay City, Bukidnon. Now on their second year college, the A Brown Scholars enjoy full scholarship privilege which include among others full tuition fees, board and lodging, transportation, books and uniform allowances. Of the six scholars, four are taking up secondary education courses: Liezl Salingay, Emegene Sanogan,
Mailyn Lisboa and Melanie Sujetado while the other two, Brian Camahay and Shiela Mae Camahay are into business courses. A Brown Group President Robertino Pizarro said the scholars were selected from among Higaonon children of barangay Kalabugao, a far-flung tribal community east of Impasug-ong, near the provincial borders of Bukidnon and Agusan de Sur. In partnership with Opol Mayor Dexter Yasay, A Brown also extends educational assistance to 10 college students of Opol, Misamis Oriental. They are currently enrolled at Opol Community College. Kalabugao, Impasugong, Bukidnon and Tingalan, Opol, MisOr are hosts to A Brown’s oil palm plantation
operated by its subsidiary company, A Brown Energy Resources Development Inc. (ABERDI). Chosen on the merit of their interest to pursue hig her education, the Higaonon scholars enjoy the privilege of being A Brown Scholars though they are required to comply with the company’s scholarship guidelines: maintain an average grade not below 85% or 2.0, in each subject taken for the semester, observe the highest level of moral decency, love of God, respect, diligence and positive attitude, Pizarro said. The scholars are required to submit their grades attained in pre-lim, midterm, semi-final and final examinations for evaluation. (Ruffy T. Magbanua)
A BROWN SERVES INDIGENOUS TRIBE, SHARES COMMUNITY BENEFITS TEN-FOLD
CAGAYAN DE ORO --- For more than five years now, A Brown Energy Resources Development Inc (ABERDI), a subsidiary of A Brown Group of Companies has been in the forefront of employment generation in Kalabugao, Impasug-ong, Bukidnon and lately, in Tingalan, Opol, Misamis Oriental, and soon in Tignapoloan, Cagayan de Oro. Employed as field maintenance workers of ABERDI’s 1,500 hectare-oil palm plantation are mostly indigenous peoples (IPs) belonging to the Higaonon Tribe, one of seven active tribal communities in Northern Mindanao, ABERDI President Robertino Pizarro said. Of the almost 400 plantationbased personnel hired by ABERDI, 75 percent of whom belong to the Higaonon Tribe paid on DOLE-approved minimum daily wage rate. In Kalabugao,
Impasug-ong, ABERDI workers receive Php259 per day while Php247 daily wage is being implemented in Tingalan, Opol, MisOr. On top of the daily minimum pay, workers enjoy other benefits like SSS, Philhealth, subsidized uniform allowance, rice and Christmas giveaways, reinforcing ABERDI’s commitment in making a meaningful impact on communities where the company operates. A monthly payroll of Php3.3 million is being spent by ABERDI, creating significant positive contribution not only for the workers and their families but also to the local economy of Impasug-ong, Bukidnon and Opol, MisOr, Pizarro said. ABERDI has likewise enlisted a significant number of local residents in both locations -- Kalabugao and Tingalan, Opol – as seasonal plantation workers (pakyaw).
A cooperative store run by A Brown employees was also established in Kalabugao to cater to the needs of the plantation workers in the area. In 2010, ABERDI put up a Php300,000Tulogan Center for the Higaonon tribal community in Kalabugao. It is now the center of all tribal activities in the area. In Opol, MisOr, Mayor Dexter Yasay has recognized the initial inroads of developments infused by ABERDI in his municipality. “Aside from religiously paying the minimum wage for Opol oil palm workers, the establishment of oil palm plantation served as the driver of socio-economic activity in my municipality”, Yasay said. For over two years in its operation in Tingalan, Opol, ABERDI has undertaken several road repair and maintenance such as the SalawagaTingalan road in the
amount of P600,000; Bagocboc-San Simon road, P1 million; Palot-ora road and spillway repair, P200,000; Limbasan road and spillway repair, P100,000; and Tingalan poblacion, P100,000. Recently, a 4-kilometer farm-tomarket road situated in sitio Binigwayannahulogan, Malanang, Opol, MisOr was constructed by ABERDI at a cost of Php100,000. Mayor Yasay has also enlisted the assistance of ABERDI worth Php100,000 in the transfer and rehab work of Opol’s Rizal Monument project. Last month, ABERDI donated plastic pipes worth Php18,000 for the communal water system of barangay Tingalan, Opol. During its first year of operation in 2010, some 173 Opol and Kalabugao workers were able to send their children to school, pay monthly school fees and eat three times a day. “The project is giving good impact
on the economy of Opol. In fact, before the establishment of the plantation, there was little economic activity except for the illegal mining along river banks and mountains of Opol. If you visit Opol right now, you will see encouraging results,” Yasay said. Before the entry of ABERDI in Opol, MisOr, some people can hardly get good meal, but since the plantation opened, we’re proud to hear positive feedback, Yasay said. ABERDI alongside with the people’s organizations KASAMAKA in Kalabugao and KMBT in Opol has established nurseries for DENR’s National Greening Program. So far, more than 100,000 Falcata tree seedlings have been planted in more than 100 hectares classified by DENR as protected areas. Oil palm is highly recognized as Asia’s sunrise industry because of its tremendous potential for high yield and farm
income aside from being an excellent forest cover. ABERDI is the first company to open up oil palm plantation in Kalabugao, Impasug-ong, Bukidnon, Tingalan, Opol, MisOr and other neighboring areas in Northern Mindanao. ABERDI operates a 10-tonner crude palm oil (CPO) mill plant in Poblacion, Impasug-ong, Bukidnon. Under construction on the same site is a Php 100-million oil palm refinery plant, expected to go into full operations by second quarter of next year. Impasug-ong Mayor Mario Okinlay acknowledged the tremendous economic contribution of ABERDI, his municipality being the host of the company’s oil palm plantation situated in Kalabugao and the crude palm oil and refinery plant in Poblacion, Impasugong, Bukidnon. (Ruffy Magbanua).
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Energy firm Steag gets PEPP Award for superior environmental performance
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epartment of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) conferred upon energy firm STEAG State Power Inc. (SPI) the DENR Official Seal of Approval in recognition of the company’s superior environmental performance. The award was presented by DENR Undersecretary for Policy and Planning Manuel Gerochi and Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) Chief Juan Miguel Cuna in fitting ceremonies on 29 June 2012 at the DENR headquarters in Quezon City. S P I P r e s i d e nt a n d Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr. Bodo Goerlich, together with Environment Officer Francis Libao, HR Manager Leah Tadena and Communications Officer Jerome Soldevilla, received the award on behalf of the company. SPI is one of the 18 industries in the country, and among the five large industries in Mindanao that qualified under Track 1 in the Philippine Environment Partnership Program (PEPP). USec Gerochi explained that PEPP-Track 1 industries are large companies that go beyond compliance and driven by competitiveness, image and supply chain requirements to improve performance. To qualify in the award,
companies must have no case filed with the Pollution Adjudication Board for the last three years prior to the date of awarding; are in full compliance of all applicable environmental laws and proven to show cleaner production processes and superior environmental performance by a 3rd party auditor. SPI is the project company of the 210 MW (net) Mindanao Coal Fired Power Plant in Villanueva, Misamis Oriental. It is majority owned by the German firm Steag GmbH, which ranks among the German market leaders in electricity and heat generation from mine gas and biomass, and is one of the leading developers and operators of district heating using hot steam from innovative combined heat and power cycles (CHP). Steag is also a pioneer in efficient technologies for hard-coal-based power production and its technologies are distinguished by high degrees of efficiency and exemplary resource conservation. SPI’s power plant in Mindanao is equipped with state of the art pollution prevention systems and has pioneered a Continuous Monitoring System (CEMS) that is made on-line with the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB).
(L-R) EMB Asst Director Eva Ocfemia, SPI President Dr. Bodo Goerlich, SPI Environment Officer Francis Libao, SPI HR Manager Leah Tadena, EMB Chief Juan Miguel Cuna, SPI Communications Officer Jerome Soldevilla, DENR Undersecretary Manuel Gerochi. Since start of its commercial operations in November 2006, SPI has delivered more than 8.3 billion kWh of electricity representing about 20% of
the Mindanao’s total power supply. It has sustained an above-industry efficiency rate of 36% and a remarkable availability rate of 93%. Apart from efficient
and reliable power plant operations, SPI is also engaged in various social and environmental programs that include a 2,200 hectare carbon
sink and urban forestry projects and the 16.4 hectare mangrove rehabilitation and development projects in Cagayan de Oro City and Misamis Oriental.
BusinessWeek Mindanao supports NSO’s Report Writing Workshop The National Statistics Office invites Businessweek Mindanao personnel Mr. Dante Sudaria, BusinessWeek and Mindanao Daily publisher and Mr. Shaun Alejandrae Uy, The Cagayan de Oro TIMES editor as guests and at same time reactants during the Report Writing Workshop on November 21, 2012 at Chali Beach Resort
and Conference Center, Cugman, Cagayan de Oro City with participants from NSO provincial offices of Bukidnon, Camiguin, Lanao del Norte, Misamis Occidental and Misamis Oriental and Regional Office 10. Each of the NSO provincial offices presents three (3) 2010 Census of Population and Housing (CPH) indicators during
the said workshop in preparation of writing a news report. This report writing workshop aims to inculcate the NSO employees the appropriate skills for news writing and reporting generally as well as its basic requirements such as 5W’s of the event which refers to the Who, What, When, Where and Why to come up with a clear
and logically structured reports because reports play an essential role in many operations especially business
operations. Mr. Uy even emphasizes that as a news writer one of the things must consider is the ‘target reader’. It needs
to be read, understood, and often, acted upon. The fact that news affects the way we perceive and act on our decisions.
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LifeStyle SEDA from page 1... Besides having the largest and poshest rooms for hotels in its price range, Seda Centrio also boasts of four fully equipped function rooms featuring modern contemporary themes and natural lighting in the fourth floor which can open up to each other to accommodate up to 100 people at a time for business or social events. An adult and kiddie’s pool as well as a fitness gym are also found in the same floor. Its Misto presents a 3-in-1 All-Day Dining Concept (Restaurant, Bar and E-Lounge) where travelers can enjoy food and drinks with the convenience of wi-fi that’s seamlessly linked to the lobby lounge and e-lounge. Guests can also explore the wide array of restaurant choices in Centrio Mall which is just one elevator ride away. Here’s where Seda transcends the boutique hotel concept under which it
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was originally conceived to a higher “urban lifestyle experience.” "For instance, every guest room has a 40-inch LED HD TV (first in the industry), media panel with HDMI, USB and A/V connectivity; phone with iPod docks and FM Stereo Features and complimentary Wi-Fi and Broadband Internet Access” said Seda Centrio General Manager Jeffrey M. Enriquez during a recent presentation to the Rotary Club of Cagayan de Oro. “ On top of that, Seda Centrio would have Ms. Katrina Morris as its “Lifestyle Manager” charged with matching the guest’s inclinations to what’s going on in the mall and the rest of the city." Seda Centrio is undertaken by Northgate Hotel Ventures, Inc. (NHVI), a joint venture between Ayala Land Hotels and Resorts Corporation (AHRC) and Anflocor.
MALUNGAY PASTEL opens in Oro
Malunggay Pastel Facade. A home grown product takes wing at Pueblo de Oro with its official opening Nov. 29, 2012. Photo by Mike Baños
New Rotarians: DGN Manny Along inducts Atty. Ian Roy Llego and Realtor Al Michael Mendoza as the 70th and 71st members of the Rotary Club of Cagayan de Oro as their sponsors and other members look on Nov. 29, 2012. (Photo by Mike Baños)
Proud Owners. Katherine May Lim (center) and proud dad Peter take a break for posterity during the Nov. 29 opening of Malunggay Pastel at Pueblo de Oro. Also in photo are SM Mall Manager Clara Elizaga (left) and Kenko Nai Cha’s Bettina Ang (right). Photo by Mike Baños
Hanging of the Greens: the Christmas season officially starts at UCCP City Church with the Hanging of the Greens by members of the congregation on Nov. 28, 2012. (Photo by Mike BaÑos)
Katherine Mary Lim and MOFCCCII IPP Robert Ching are all smiles during the recent opening of Malunggay Pastel at Pueblo de Oro. The proudly Kagay-anon product was a Feasibility Study project of Ms. Lim and her classmates Steffi Seoul Dalman, Lydia Ruth Robillos and Billy Jim Alerta at Xavier University for their Bachelor of Science in Business Management (BSBM) course. Photo by Mike Baños
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THE ADVOCATE FOR PAIN LESS LIFE
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Fast increasing demand for Software Engineers By: Mildred E. Dablio Labor Communications Officer
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Person who suffered a painful life with diabetes, eye problem, skin problem, muscles spasm, constipation, memor y re tenti on probl em an d ulcer since elementary, high school, college and even after graduation is now committed to share his new found health solution. He will tell it to us why he was able to overcome from all those painful life to pain less life and why he spent his life on research, study and developed a health program for those who are willing to control their health power back. This year was his Breakthrough. He has just earned two Doctorate Degree (Doctor of Ministry in Nutritional Medicine at Acasia Hotel Manila October 18, 2012 and Doctor of Ministry in Herbal Medicine Development at Conchita Hotel Cagayan de Oro City last November 15,2012 from The Open S e m i nar y, Inte r nat i ona l Evangelical Foundation. THE REASON: I want to live a pain-free life. But we can’t do this because we are in this world full of pain. There are pain that we can control and the ones we can’t control. When I think about those two options, I choose to control the controllable pain over the pain that I can’t control. I don’t’ want to spend most of my energy controlling the pain that is beyond my control. I took a strong decision to control it. Why just to control it? Because I believe that we can’t stop it, but we can only strengthen our controlled defense over the cause of pain. I strongly believed that we must have the knowledge of the cause of pain. That is why I pursue my study on how food destroys us and on the other hand how it strengthens our body and that the body can be able to build its own defenses. We need to understand what the body needs to protect and maintain its function. I have developed a theory maybe this is new to you but this theory is already forgotten
and maybe no one will accept, I knew it because this is new to them. I call this the new methodology. T HAT I S W H Y I A M HERE AND WITH THIS NEW METHODOLOGY. I DON’T WANT YOU TO EXPERIENCE THE PAIN WITHOUT A SOLUTION. I know you have already a solution. But maybe you are still suffering a pain deep inside you. You have a solution that is artificial because you don’t know what else and what is available solution out there. Is there a proven, scientific, and reliable way to healthy and pain less life? THE NEW METHODOLOGY: There are so many theory coming out and we sometimes believe them but this is what he believes, “We are the Soil” (Gen 2:27) and we need to maintain our elements of the soil (body). The soil mostly composed of 45% of minerals, 25% of water, 25% of air and 5% of other materials (Wikipedia). If you removed or reduce each of those compositions, you will surely end up in soil erosion. Now if the body is the soil, I know you understand what I mean about soil erosion. Soil erosion is the body erosion. Picture a soil that is eroded as your body. The soil can’t hold on to the vegetation, no tress or plant can grow, no water for the creature, or if there is, these creatures will die later. Again if the soil is the body, and if there is a soil erosion, then the body will also erode therefore, the cells that move within will also experience hunger, thirst, and body will not be able to hold the cells or the tissues, the body will experience clotting like erosion, damage cells or cancer and death on environment. But thanks be to God, the body can heal itself as its nature. If we allow then support the body correctly to do its action to function in a proper time, provide what the body correctly needs, it can do marvelous things as it supposed to be. SOLUTION
Here is what I believe we can do to stop the fast erosion or fast aging and diseases, we help the body remove the damage tissues, clogging in the system and help repair the malfunction organs. The body will do the reconstruction, like skin will be renewed, the liver can regenerate, the heart can pump exact blood to the system needed, and we can think clear. 1. Since we need to repair the damage or the malfunction, we need to remove the damage tissues or clogging by stop putting pollutants elements like high processes food that provides no nutrients to the needed system and make the system malnourish. And eliminate in your plate the food that is high in preservatives, artificial, and additives because these will not help the body’s goal in removing the clogging and the damage tissues. It will just add and prevent or hinder the cleansing system. 2. We need fresh vegetables that have active ingredients for removing damage tissues and the clogging system. Fresh vegetables have more nutrients and micronutrients that will help the organs function. A fresh vegetable has enzymes needed for changing the food or the clogging food, the longtime stored food in our system to useful energy. Sometimes people rely only in supplements more than fresh vegetables because they don’t want the taste. If you are having problem with this, just let me know maybe I have a solution for you. But fresh vegetables are all we need. We can have them through fresh vegetable juicing and salad. If there is organic vegetables that must be your first priority in every meal, but if we can’t find them in our area, we just need to clean with baking soda plus salt combined with kalamansi or lemon. We really need to eat fresh vegetables as our main course in every meal. Dried food can’t enter into the blood steam except the dried herbs that can be absorbed through its active ingredients
mixed in the water. Dried food contain no nutrients that is needed for proper function and dried food contain more bulk that can stop the nutrients from entering into the blood stream for distribution and energy to the needed organs or cells. It will only give you fullness in the stomach but not in the cells. This makes the cells malnourish, damage or possible death due to famine. 3. The system needs to be moved and the cells continue to circulate because if it does, this is the start of clogging and dying of cells. According to some study, the body transport the digested and absorbed food to the cells then to the rest of the body but because of clogging or damage cells, this transport sometimes stops and stocked in one area of our system. That is why we need to jump, briskly walk, or exercise for this but do not overdo it. It will give you more acid according to the study of Dr. Robert Young. 4. To help more on repairing and keeping the body from moving and do its function, we need to remember that all the food that is rich in nutrients, water, air that enters into the body is being used every time the body moves, the body thinks, and even if the body are resting. That is why we also need to maintain the healthy lifestyle or the correct healthy practices and most of all the correct food, the correct volume of water, correct amount of air and the other thing like exercise. RISK REDUCTION PROGRAM Every people need guidance of this program and I am willing to help them. They can meet me in my office or center at DAILY LIFESTYLE PLUS EIGHT THERAPY CENTER, #996 Luminarias st, Camaman-an, Cagayan de Oro City with a telephone number of 880-0208. My office hours are from 10am to 5pm from Monday to Friday only. For appointment please call at the above telephone number. You can also visit my website at www.meetdrdlajot.com
Cagayan de Oro City --Department of Labor and Employment, Regional Office No. 10 Director Johnson G. Cañete reiterates the announcement of Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz last 23 November 2012, encouraging students to pursue a career on Software Engineering, in the field of Information Technology (IT). Affirmed under the 127 Career Guides of the Department (http://www. ble.dole.gov.ph/occupation. asp) , a Software Engineer is listed among the in-demand jobs or occupations in the country within 5-10 years from now. And, it is expected to increase in demand much faster than the average of other occupations. It was known that among the country’s top eight (8) universities offering IT related courses include Xavier University (Ateneo de Cagayan) and the Mindanao State University – Institute of Technology which are located in Region 10. With the faster pace of doing business, companies and other organizations
adopt and integrate new technologies and seek to maximize the efficiency of their computer systems. Adopting new technologies would require the services of a Software Engineer. Software Engineers may be employed in the following industries: Transport, Storage and Communication; Financial Intermediation; Real Estate, Renting and Business Activities; Public Administration and Defense, Compulsory Social Security; Education; Other Community, Social and Personal Service Activities; Private Households with Employed Persons; and IT entrepreneurs. Students who want to pursue software engineering should possess analytical, problem solving, and mathematical skills. At present, the entrylevel salary of a Software Engineer is around P16,000 - P26,900 per month and may go up to P46,183 for those highly experienced professionals. In U.S and Singapore, Software Engineer receives a monthly average salary of $4,904 or S$2,500.
DOLE-10 welcomes continued CSC Level II Accreditation By: Mildred E. Dablio Cagayan de Oro City --Department of Labor and Employment, Regional Office No. 10 Director Johnson G. Cañete is delighted with the retention of the Civil Service Commission Level II Accreditation of the Department. He made this following statement by DOLE Secretary Rosalinda Dimpilis-Baldoz dated 23 November 2012, upon receiving the congratulatory letter from the CSC stating that DOLE is consistently compliant to the requirements of the Program to Institutionalize Meritocracy and Excellence i n Hu m an R e s ou rc e Management (PRIME-HRM) with Level II-Accredited Status. Being a holder of the Level II Accredited Status, the Department is granted the authority to take final actions on appointments and not subject to CSC’s regular monitoring and assistance. The Human Resources Management Officers or the HRMOs are responsible for the implementation of the PRIME-HRM. Director Cañete is one with Secretar y Baldoz’s plan to attain Level III Accreditation which will give the Department the
authority to take final action on appointments and to implement HR programs and systems without the need for prior approval by the CSC. Pro cess es for L e vel III Accreditation include competency of the HRMO like completed trainings on Appointment preparations; leave administration; administrative rules; personnel preparation; and merit and promotion. The CSC will also audit the agency on sound Personnel Records Management, a reliable grievance machinery; the Department’s Performance, Rewards Appraisal Incentive for S er v ice E xcel lence (PRAISE); and Committee on Office Decorum and Investigation (CODI) will also be conducted. In Region 10, CSC-10 through Director Lourdes Clavite-Vidal, awarded DOLE-10 as an Outstanding Regional Office along with Ms. Lucila S. Pulvera as the Oustanding Human Resource Management Officer last 27 September 2004 in Cagayan de Oro City. These awards were given in recognition of DOLE-10 as one of the best implementer of Human Resource and Management Programs in the region.
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