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The Observer.com #41 - AUGUST 10, 2022

DON’T JUST BE AN INQUIRER AND ASK, BE AN OBSERVER AND ACT

Bong Go lauds enactment of measure strengthening PH digital workforce 4

47 Filipinos picked for Japan Exchange and teaching program 3

Php 25.00

Pangasinan Nomad: Unofficial tourism ambassador 12

“PH to continue to ‘evolve’ friendship with US”-- PBBM Story on Page 2

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. welcomed US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Malacañang Palace.

ROTC would bolster country’s disaster response capability 3

Senate urged to decide on fate of Barangay and SK election 2

Stronger agri cooperation with US 2

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VOLUME 1, NO. 41 WEDNESDAY AUGUST 10, 2022

Stronger agricultural cooperation with US MANILA -- President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Saturday vowed to strengthen cooperation in the agriculture sector as the US official cited the chief executive for taking the agriculture portfolio.

“I was also struck by something which is your decision — despite the fact that you have a full-time job, you also took the agriculture portfolio. And I wanted to tell you that this is an area of intense focus for us, food security,” Blinken said during his courtesy call on the President in Malacañang.

By taking the helm of the Department of Agriculture (DA), Blinken said President Marcos is able to gain a better understanding of the country’s numerous challenges.

“In your position in agriculture, you are getting a further understanding of the Philippines’ needs and where you can help,” Blinken told Marcos.

Marcos said the COVID-19 pandemic had fueled the need to improve agricultural sustainability, address food supply concerns and bolster the country’s response to future crises.

“One of the painful lessons of the pandemic was when food shipments were stopped, we suddenly realized we cannot feed ourselves, which is an immediate weakness in everything that we will do,” Marcos said.

The chief executive said this is why there is a need for a more robust food production and distribution system. “That immediately became a priority. And it is something that we now are slowly working on,” said Marcos.

The President also sought Washington’s assistance in the area of research and innovation in agriculture.

“We have very good scientific researchers who have been working on this, but we have to organize them better. And I think any exchanges with your researchers and scientists and institutions would certainly be welcomed,” Marcos told Blinken.

Blinken said the United States is ready to work with the Philippines in this area.

“We are happy to work with you on this in any way what you see appropriate, and certainly we make sure that what expertise we have, we can share,” said Blinken.

During Blinken’s courtesy call on Marcos, the two talked about a wide range of issues, including the US government’s commitment to continue the RP-US Mutual Defense Treaty.

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PBBM assures Blinken PH to continue to ‘evolve’ friendship with US MANILA -- President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. said the Philippines would continue to “evolve” its friendship with the United States amid global challenges.

“I hope that we will continue to evolve with that relationship in the face of all the changes that we have been seeing and the changes in our bilateral relations with the United States,” Marcos told US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in a meeting in Malacañan Palace.

Blinken paid a courtesy call on President Marcos in a bid to bolster ties between the US and the Philippines.

“I cannot overemphasize the importance that the Philippines holds in its relationship with the United States. It is at every level. It’s not personal level, it’s at a familial level — people who have folks in the United States, who have been working there, second, third generation Filipinos who have been there. From that very, very grassroots level,” Marcos said.

For his part, Blinken said the relationship between the two countries is founded on friendship as he hailed the strong alliance between

Manila and Washington.

“Our relationship is quite extraordinary because it is really founded in friendship, it’s forged as well in partnership, and it’s strengthened by the fact that it’s an alliance as well,” Blinken said.

Blinken also assured the chief executive that the United States continues to honor its commitment to sustaining defense and security cooperation.

“We are committed to the Mu-

tual Defense Treaty. We’re committed to working with you on shared challenges,” said Blinken.

Blinken also cited the two countries’ partnership in addressing global issues, including the COVID-19 pandemic and climate change.

“We have been proud to be your partner in working on that and protecting all of our people. Whether it’s climate change and the need to deal with that existential challenge or whether it’s the impact of

all these new technologies on the lives of our people,” Blinken said.

Blinken is the highest-ranking United States official to visit the country since the inauguration of Marcos.

The two officials talked about a wide array of issues that include commitment to sustaining the defense and security cooperation, renewable energy, climate change mitigation, agriculture, food security, and COVID-19, among others.

Senate urged to decide at once on fate of BSKE

MANILA – Two senators on Tuesday asked their fellow lawmakers to prioritize the legislative action on proposed measures seeking to postpone the 2022 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE) slated for December 5.

Senator Ramon Revilla Jr. said it needs to be discussed as soon as possible so it can be decided if it should be postponed or will push through.

“Mahalaga na agarang matukoy kung itutuloy ba ito o hindi para hindi na umabot pa sa punto na masasayang lang ang paghahanda na gagawin ng Comelec [Commission on Elections] dahil lang huli na na-ipasa ang batas (It is important that we know if it we push it through or not so it will not come to a point where the preparations of the Comelec will go to waste because the law was passed late),” he said during the session.

Senator Jinggoy Estrada agreed by making an early manifestation, suggesting that since both he and Senator Francis Escudero filed bills postponing the BSKE, the chairpersons of the committees where the

bills were referred should act on them immediately.

“If we approve of the postponement of the Barangay and SK Elections, then they will not prepare anything. But if we disapprove, if we continue to have the Barangay and SK Elections, then the Comelec has time to prepare,” he said.

Senate Minority Leader Joel Villanueva said Escudero’s bill was likewise referred to the Committee on Local Government chaired by Senator JV Ejercito.

“The earlier that we can make a decision on it, the earlier we also save money from the National Treasury for other government programs. So, I support the move of Senator Jinggoy to discuss this as soon as possible,” Zubiri said.

To date, the Comelec said the BSKE will proceed as scheduled.

PH needs new set of youth leaders Youth members of an election watchdog on Tuesday called on lawmakers to allow the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elec-

RIGHT TO VOTE. Stroke survivor Noel Dumaging, 60, is assisted by a relative as he registers at a Commission on Elections satellite office in Barangay St. Peter, Quezon City. (PNA photo by Gil Calinga)

tions (BSKE) to push through as scheduled on Dec. 5.

In a position paper submitted to both the Senate and the House of Representatives, the youth members of the National Movement for Free Elections (Namfrel) said the forthcoming polls should not be postponed, as the country already needs a new set of youth leaders armed with fresh ideas and programs.

“Given that the last elections were held in 2018, hearing and heeding our choice, especially for us first-time SK voters, is overdue.

Electing a new set of SK leaders will pave the way for potential modification or improvement of, or even entirely new youth programs under a new youth development plan. It is high time for us to elect

those passionate in governance and in serving the public, who have new and innovative ideas drawn from our experiences in surviving the horrors of the Covid-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) pandemic,” the group added.

They also said the time has come for voters to determine whether the incumbent village and youth officials have performed their duties.

“Three years are enough for the electorate to judge whether the incumbent officials performed their mandate. It is the voters’ decision to either retain or replace the officials in power. Therefore, postponing the 2022 BSKE will deprive the electorate of this opportunity,” the group said.

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President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr. “I think we have to review our SOPs when there’s a warning. So what do we immediately do when the alert is given to us? How do we preposition the things that we will need?”

Bigger stockpile of water purifying systems MANILA -- President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. underscored the need to procure more water purifying systems that will address supply problems during disasters, in the wake of a magnitude 7 earthquake that struck northern Luzon.

“One of the things that we have found useful in all of the disasters pag water supply ang nagiging problema are the water purifying systems that are very simple.

You’ve seen them before ‘yung nasa balde and then they have a filter,” the President said during a situation briefing on the effects of the earthquake in Abra.

“We should procure more of those because immediately water is always going to be a problem para hindi — you know, things like cholera, diphtheria will come into play,” Marcos said.

Abra Vice Governor Maria Jocelyn Bernos reported that soil movement may have caused problems in the province’s water system lines.

The chief executive said the water supply in the province should be restored immediately.

“Well, that again is actually even more of a priority than communications and power. That’s something that has to be restored immediately,” he said.

The Office of Civil Defense-Cordillera Administrative Region (OCD-CAR) said the whole province of Abra needs 300,000 bottles of drinking water.

VOLUME 1, NO. 41 WEDNESDAY AUGUST 10, 2022

ANG PANGARAP NYO, AY PANGARAP KO...

PBBM wants review of disaster response SOPs MANILA -- President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Friday, August 5, floated the need to review standard operating procedures (SOPs) to create a uniform and coordinated approach during disasters.

“I think we have to review our SOPs when there’s a warning. So what do we immediately do when the alert is given to us? How do we preposition the things that we will need?” Marcos said in a Cabinet meeting.

Marcos made the remark in the wake of a magnitude 7 earthquake that rocked northern Luzon on July 27.

The chief executive said the government should preposition sat-

ellite phones, generators, and water, among others, once an alert is raised.

“As we know, the very first thing that we have to deal with is really communication, to find out what’s going on where, and then doon na tayo makapag-assess, saan natin uunahin,” he said.

“Ang experience ko, the first thing you have to do is communicate with the local government official,” he added.

During the meeting, the President also discussed the use of airlift assets for disaster response. “[Dapat nandyan ‘yung] mga tropa natin na gagamitin natin na makakapasok to clear,” he said.

Marcos also cited the impor-

tance of engineers who can help in clearing operations and building temporary structures.

In terms of disaster preparedness, the chief executive said in his first State of the Nation Address that the proposed legislation on the Mandatory Reserve Officers’ Training Corps and National Service Training Program aims to motivate, train, organize and mobilize students for national defense preparedness, including disaster preparedness and capacity building for risk-related situations.

In his visit to Abra on July 28, the President highlighted the need to procure more water purifying systems that will address water supply problems during disasters.

ROTC would bolster country’s disaster response capability MANILA -- President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. said the return of the mandatory Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) would help bolster the country’s capability in dealing with disasters.

In his weekly vlog aired on Saturday, Marcos said the ROTC is designed to train high school students not only for national defense preparedness but also for disaster response and emergency management.

“Mas marami rin tayong maihahanda na sibilyan para sa mga ganitong disaster response sa pamamagitan ng ROTC program dahil hindi lang naman national defense ang tinuturo sa kanila kundi disaster preparedness and capacity building para dito nga sa tinatawag na risk-related situations na itinuturo sa kanila,” he said.

The chief executive made this remark after a magnitude 7 earthquake rocked northern Luzon last week, leaving at least five people dead and causing massive damages to infrastructure, houses, and livelihoods.

Marcos said while Filipinos are naturally caring and always ready to help others in times of disasters, those who respond to calamities must be properly trained and equipped with knowledge and skills in disaster response.

“Although likas na sa ating mga Pilipino ang maging matulungin, iba pa rin ‘yung ‘pag may training at tamang paghahanda sa pagreresponde,” he stressed.

He likewise noted that Filipinos must always be prepared in times of emergency, given that the Philippines is situated along the Pacific Ring of Fire and the so-called typhoon belt, which makes it highly vulnerable to disasters and other extreme weather disturbances fueled by climate change.

Marcos has been pushing for the revival of the ROTC among senior high schools, declaring it as one of the priority measures of his administration during his first State of the Nation Address on July 25.

Disaster-proof communities After witnessing the damage caused by the earthquake to infrastructure, particularly in the provinces of Abra and Ilocos Sur, the President said the country must also build “disaster-proof” communities and make the country more resilient to disasters.

“Ito ay nasira at kailangan talagang mai-restore kaagad kaya naman lahat ng ating mga itatayo na mga bago ay dapat disaster-proof na ang ating pagplano sa itong mga ito mula sa mga kalye, building, pati na rin ‘yung heritage site, eskuwelah-

an, ospital, mga bahay ng ating mga mamamayan,” he said.

Several cultural and heritage sites in Abra and Ilocos Sur incurred severe damage from the tremor, including centuries-old churches such as the Tayum Church and Sta. Catalina de Alexandria Church, the Vigan Cathedral, the Bantay Bell Tower, and the iconic Calle Crisologo in Vigan.

Marcos assured that all the needs of quake victims are being taken care of and attended to by concerned national and local government agencies. “‘Yung mga evacuees naman ay mabuti naman ang kanilang kalagayan. Kumpleto naman ang pagbigay sa kanilang mga pangangailangan,” he said.

“Sila ay nag-aantay na lang na mainspeksyon ang kanilang mga bahay upang matiyak na ito ay maaari na nilang balikan,” he added.

He said according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), should there be aftershocks within two to three days, it would likely be weak and would not cause significant damage.

“Sabi sa atin ng Phivolcs, mga dalawa, tatlong araw na lang, nakakatiyak na tayo na kung magkaroon man ng aftershock ay napakaliit, napakahina na lang. Hindi na magiging delikado,” he said.

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In-person classes to boost PH economic recovery

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is hoping for a successful resumption of face-to-face or in-person classes later this month, noting that it will boost economic recovery from the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic.

In his weekly vlog, Marcos enjoined local government units (LGUs) anew to be more aggressive in their Covid-19 vaccination and booster drives to ensure the safety of everyone, especially students, once Academic Year 2022-2023 starts.

Citing government data, he said some 15.9 million Filipinos have received their first Covid-19 booster shots while over 1.2 million have received their second booster doses.

Marcos admitted it is still far from the government’s target of administering at least 23 million Covid-19 booster shots within his first 100 days in office.

“Kaya hindi tayo magsasawang pakiusapan ang ating LGU na maging mas agresibo dito sa kampanyang ito (We will not get tired of asking our LGUs to be more aggressive in this campaign),” he said.

He acknowledged that getting more Filipinos to get their Covid-19 jabs and booster shots is not easy but it is crucial to reopening more sectors.

“Hindi man ito ganung kasimple pero kapag tama ang paghahanda ay siguradong magiging matagumpay ito (It might not be that simple, but if our preparation is done right, I am sure this will be successful),” he added.

According to Marcos, the resumption of in-person classes will revive economic activities in establishments around schools such as school supplies stores, retail industry, and the like and in public transport.

Parents will also have the opportunity to go back to work while their children are in school, which means an increase in workforce.

“Kapag ito ay naging matagumpay, hindi lang ito balik-eskuwela kundi balik-negosyo, balik-hanapbuhay at balik-kaunlaran. Ito ay masasabi ring malaking tulong sa malawakang kilusan natin ng pagbubukas ng ekonomiya (If this becomes successful, it won’t only mean the resumption of classes but also the resumption of business, livelihood, and economic development. This would be a huge help to our efforts to reopen the economy),” he said. -- Azer Parrocha

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VOLUME 1, NO. 41 WEDNESDAY AUGUST 10, 2022

“Nais po nating mabigyan ng kaukulang kakayahan at kasanayan ang ating mga kababayan upang maging parte sila ng digital workforce ng bansa,” -- Senator Bong Go

Solon wants public service advisories in Filipino, dialects MANILA – A proposed measure will require government agencies and local government units (LGUs) to translate public service announcements in Filipino and regional dialects.

Senate Bill No. 680, or the Language Accessibility of Public Information on Disasters Act filed

by Senator Jinggoy Estrada, states that sharing information will be more effective since majority easily understands Filipino and other regional dialects better than the universal English language.

Government agencies releasing advisories related to natural disasters and severe weather conditions usually use the English language.

“Getting reliable, updated information in the most convenient way, written in languages spoken in the impacted communities when communication becomes especially critical, can help ensure public safety, protect property, elicit cooperation, and facilitate response efforts,” Estrada said in his explanatory note.

Also included in the bill are translations of information on social amelioration programs, emergency assistance and other social protection measures, disease outbreaks, security concerns of the military and the police, and manmade emergencies.

The information must be in plain language and devoid of scientific jargon or technical terminologies and contain specific information on the extent and scale of impending impact and damage down to the barangay (village) level.

“More important than economic loss is the danger and the loss of lives of the people because of insufficient or inappropriate communication – misinformation, miscommunication, lack of information in far-flung areas – from authorities to their constituents during times of disasters and calamities,” Estrada said.-- Leonel Abasola

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Bong Go lauds enactment of measure strengthening PH digital workforce

PASAY CITY -- Senator Christopher “Bong” Go hailed the enactment of a measure which seeks to promote the development of the country’s digital workforce by providing Filipinos with better digital skills.

Republic Act 11927 or the “Philippine Digital Workforce Competitiveness Act”, which was principally authored by Senator Joel Villanueva and co-authored

by Go, seeks to guarantee that the Filipino workforce benefits from the job prospects created by digital technologies.

“Nais po nating mabigyan ng kaukulang kakayahan at kasanayan ang ating mga kababayan upang maging parte sila ng digital workforce ng bansa,” said Go. “Dahil dito, mas maraming mga oportunidad at trabaho ang magbubukas para sa kanila at mas madaling makakabangon ang ating ekonomiya mula sa epekto ng pandemya,” he added.

Under the law, the Inter-Agency Council for Development and Competitiveness of Philippine Digital Workforce shall be created to take charge of planning, coordination and implementation of policies promoting, developing, and enhancing the competitiveness of the Philippines’ digital workforce.

The council shall be headed by the National Economic and Development Authority. Meanwhile, its members shall be composed of the Department of Labor and Employment, Department of Trade and Industry, Department of Information and Communications Technology, Department of Science and Technology, Department of the Interior and Local Government, Department of Education,

Commission on Higher Education, and Technical Education and Skills Development Authority.

Local government units will also be strengthened as they will be able to implement local policies that support and promote the growth and development of digital technology, digital careers, and innovations in their respective areas.

In the creation and execution of training, skill development, and certification programs, the new law will enable public-private partnerships with specialists, private firms, information technology-business process outsourcing industry associations, and other stakeholders.

Go has early on emphasized the need for the country to transition to the digital age by utilizing new technologies and incorporating them into public governance.

Citing lessons from the pandemic, the senator refiled Senate Bill No. 194 or the E-Governance Act of 2022 as one of his top 20 priority measures in the 19th Congress to make the government more responsive to the changing times.

He noted that at the height of the pandemic, the public was burdened by long lines and inconvenient appointments with government offices, financial institutions, and other public offices.

The proposed measure mandates the government to establish an integrated, interconnected, and interoperable information and resource-sharing and communications network spanning the entirety of the national and local government, an internal records management information system, an information database, and digital portals for the delivery of public services.

The measure likewise pushes for the digitization of paper-based and other traditional modes of workflows for a more efficient and transparent public service.

Go then reiterated that Filipinos must feel that the government is truly accessible to them, bringing important government services closer to the populace, thereby improving national resilience and adaptability.

“Dahil sa pandemya, nakita

natin kung gaano kahalaga na mabilis at maaasahan ang serbisyo ng gobyerno para sa mga Pilipino,” said the senator.

“Kaya naman dapat lamang tayong magpasa ng mga panukala na magpapatatag at magpapabilis sa pagbibigay ng serbisyo ng gobyerno sa mga Pilipino gamit ang teknolohiya upang masiguro na kaya nating lampasan anumang krisis ang ating kakaharapin,” he stressed.

Probe on MMDA no-contact implementation sought MANILA – A lawmaker sought an inquiry into the implementation of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority’s (MMDA) no-contact apprehension policy (NCAP) due to the “enormous” traffic fines imposed even for minor violations.

Surigao del Norte Representative Robert Ace Barbers made the call during the plenary session after receiving reports and complaints from motorists who are being penalized with enormous fees “without due process of law”.

Barbers noted that while the intent of NCAP to discipline erring drivers is laudable, the public should be enlightened about the details of its implementation to curb or stop abuses by the implementors.

Under the NCAP system, the MMDA or local government units concerned issue notices or citation and mail them directly to the vehicles registered owners. Non-payment of dues or fines on a specific period of seven days meant that violators’ vehicles would not be ac-

commodated for re-registration.

Barbers said the NCAP implementation could become an additional burden for motorists and a source of corruption institutionalized by the state.

“This NCAP system is laudable since the intent is to discipline erring, abusive or wayward drivers.

But the implementors, I was told, are imposing excessive fines and could be violating the Constitution since there is no due process of law.

Likewise, there is no law, ordinance or regulation prohibiting vehicle registration due to non-payment of fines for traffic violations,” Barbers said in a privilege speech.

He said NCAP is supposed to be implemented by the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA), in coordination with the Land Transportation Office (LTO), in all major thoroughfares in the region, but some LGUs like Manila, Quezon City, Paranaque and Valenzuela have also adopted the NCAP system in their own localities -- Filane Mikee Cervantes

47 Filipinos picked for Japan teaching program MANILA – Forty-seven Filipinos were selected to be part of the 2022 Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) program, the Japanese Embassy in Manila said.

JET is a competitive program that allows foreigners, including Filipinos to live and teach in Japan.

The Filipino participants this year, consisting of 46 assistant language teachers (ALTs) and one coordinator for international relations (CIR), are set to leave the Philippines on Aug. 14, 2022.

ALTs will work in public or private schools, or local boards of education in the prefecture or municipality where they will be assigned and will assist in classes

led by Japanese English teachers.

The Embassy said the number of Filipino JET participants has increased since it started in 2014, totaling 250 as of this posting.

In a send-off reception hosted by Japanese Ambassador Kazuhiko Koshikawa last month, the envoy hoped the 47 could further strengthen the people-to-people ties and linkages between Japan and the Philippines.

“By design, the JET Program welcomes bright young talents from all over the world to local Japanese communities and schools. Promoting mutual trust and internationalization, participants become cultural ambassadors that bridge Japan to their home nations,” he said.

JAPAN-BOUND. The 2022 Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) program participants with Ambassador Kazuhiko Koshikawa and Mme. Yuko Koshikawa during the send-off reception in Makati last month. The Japanese Embassy on Tuesday (Aug. 9, 2022) said 47 Filipinos were selected to be part of the JET program.

(Photo courtesy of Japan Embassy in Manila)

“Filipino JETs do so well in this aspect, consistently paving avenues for stronger linkages between Japan and the Philippines. Our 47 ALTs and solo CIR this year are living evidence of the program’s impact and hope we will continue to walk on this path,” he added.

The JET Program was launched by the Japanese government in 1987 to deepen mutual understanding between the people of Japan and foreigners through foreign language exchange and cultural immersion.

-- Joyce Ann L. Rocamora

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VOLUME 1, NO. 41 WEDNESDAY AUGUST 10, 2022

3 unfinished pump stations, not dolomite, caused flooding: MMDA

By Raymond Carl Dela Cruz

MANILA – The recent flooding along the Manila Baywalk and adjacent areas was caused by the construction of a nearby drainage system project and not by the Dolomite Beach, an official of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) said.

In an interview during his inspection of the Juan Luna Elementary School in Sampaloc, Manila, MMDA Acting General Manager Baltazar Melgar said the Dolomite Beach “has no connection” to the recent flooding in the area.

“The reason why flood water subsided slowly during heavy rains

last Friday was the ongoing construction of three pumping stations and a pipeline by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), which is expected to be completed by October,” Melgar said.

The three pumping stations were the Padre Faura Drainage, Remedios Drainage, and Estero De San Antonio.

The pumping stations, he said, are part of the “engineering solutions” to further decrease the high coliform level count in the area’s waters and make Manila Bay “swimmable”.

The slow draining was the result of drains diverting to the Pasig

Japanese city mayor shows off Marikina-made shoes

By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan MANILA – Sakai City Mayor Masahiro Hashimoto proudly displayed his Marikina-made shoes during his visit to the Philippines’ shoe capital on Monday.

The Japanese official made this gesture during his visit for the donation of two fully-equipped emergency vehicles to the city government.

Hashimoto thanked Marikina Mayor Marcelino “Marcy” Teodoro for fostering a good relationship between the cities of Sakai and Marikina.

“He even took off his shoe and proudly showed that he was wearing shoes made in Marikina,” Teodoro said in a statement Tuesday.

Sakai City officials headed by Hashimoto and congressman Noboru Hamura personally turned over a mini-pumper fire truck and advanced life support (ALS) ambulance to the city.

The ambulance is equipped with portable and fixed oxygen supply equipment, suction apparatus with a regulator, a built-in pulse oximeter, an automated external

defibrillator, a blood pressure meter, a nebulizer, and immobilization equipment, among others.

Teodoro and the city council of Marikina accepted the donations from Sakai, its sister city.

“On behalf of the City Government and citizens of Marikina, I graciously accept and express our profound gratitude for this ambulance. But more than this, we are grateful for the invaluable learnings, experiences, and opportunities we have both gained from our mutual collaboration and friendship,” he added.

This year marks the fifth anniversary of the sisterhood agreement between Sakai City and Marikina.

“We have fulfilled our objective of broadening and deepening our mutual understanding of our culture, people, and practices of good governance. We have actualized programs in education and disaster risk reduction and management through benchmarking activities and exchanging of ideas,” Teodoro said.

Marikina has been the sister city of Sakai under a memorandum of agreement signed in 2017. (PNA)

SISTER CITIES. Mayor Marcelino Teodoro (left) receives the advanced life support (ALS) ambulance donation from Sakai City, Japan Mayor Masahiro Hashimoto (right) in a ceremony at the Marikina City Hall on Monday (Aug. 8, 2022). Teodoro said Hashimoto, during the event, took pride in wearing shoes that were made in the city dubbed as the Philippines’ shoe capital. (Photo courtesy of Marikina City government)

River through the Balete Pumping Station, instead of discharging directly into the Manila Bay pending the completion of the three pumping stations, Melgar explained.

To avoid similar flooding incidents in the area, he said the MMDA is coordinating with the DPWH in operating a mobile pump that would safely discharge water directly to Manila Bay. “These storm waters can be safely discharged directly into the Manila Bay because it can be diluted,” he said.

Reports attributed the recent floods in Manila to the closure of the Padre Faura Drainage, Remedios Drainage, and Estero De San Antonio due to the Dolomite Beach.

The three main drainage systems, once completed, will lead divert sewage water into a treatment plant before sending it into Manila Bay. (PNA)

Isolated jail facilities eyed in Mindoro, Zamboanga, Leyte MANILA – The Department of Justice (DOJ) is looking into the possibility of putting up isolated penal facilities after the bill seeking to create island prisons, similar to the former Alcatraz Island penitentiary in the United States, lapsed into law.

Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said under Republic Act 11929, or the Separate Facility for Heinous Crimes Inmates Act, the DOJ is eyeing one site each in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.

“We will build a facility in Sablayan, Occidental Mindoro and we have locations in Leyte and Zamboanga, which are possible sites,” Remulla said.

The planned Sablayan facility will be in the same parcel of land as the Sablayan Prison and Penal Farm, which has an area of 8,000 hectares, Remulla added.

The law that orders the creation of isolated penal facilities was among the 41 bills under the Duterte administration that lapsed into law.

The President has 30 days to sign a bill into law or veto it. If no action is taken within 30 days, the measure will lapse into law.

The facility for persons convicted of heinous crimes will have surveillance cameras, latest information technology security systems, and enhanced and extensive security features on locks, doors, and perimeters.

It shall be built in a location away from the general population and other persons deprived of liberty, preferably within a military establishment or on an island separate from the mainland.

The law aims to decongest jails and deter crimes. -- Benjamin Pulta

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FLOODED. Motorists negotiate a flooded portion of the Natividad Almeda-Lopez Street in Manila during a heavy downpour on Friday night (Aug. 5, 2022). The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority said Tuesday (August 9) that the flooding subsided slowly due to the construction of three pumping stations and a pipeline by the Department of Public Works and Highways. (PNA photo by Alfred M. Frias)

Encourage residents to get nat’l ID: DILG

MANILA – Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. on Tuesday called on anew local government units (LGUs) to continuously encourage their constituents to register in the Philippine Identification System (PhilSys).

This is in support of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s order for the Philippine Statistics Authority to fasttrack the delivery of almost 50 million PhilID cards by year end.

Abalos said LGUs should take the lead in explaining the importance and value of having a national ID which will serve as an official proof of identity for public and private transactions.

“We again call on LGUs, especially the barangays, to extend their full support to the President and the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) in the National ID campaign. Enjoin your constituents to get a National ID for easier validation and authentication of identity in their transactions with government offices, banks, and other private entities,” Abalos said in a news release.

He said barangay chairpersons can help the government’s national ID campaign by disseminating printed and electronic materials, making roving announcements and sharing registration-related updates from the official PhilSys social media pages.

“Kailangang masigasig ang mga LGUs at mga barangays sa kampanyang ito dahil gusto nating ang lahat ay magkaroon ng maayos na pagkakakilanlan para na rin mabilis silang maasikaso

at makatanggap ng mga serbisyo ng gobyerno at ng mga pribadong opisina (LGUs and barangays must be diligent in this campaign because we want everyone to have a proper identity so that they can be attended to quickly and receive services from the government and private offices),” he said.

Abalos said having a PhilID becomes even more relevant during these times when almost everything is going digital and IDs are often required for online transactions, e-shopping, opening of e-bank accounts, and digital payments, among others.

He said the PhilID will also be beneficial to low-income persons who usually find it difficult to transact with and seek assistance from public and private offices which usually require two or more government IDs. “Ang PhilID lang ay sapat na. Hindi na kailangan pang hingan o magpakita ng iba-ibang ID sa pakikipag-transaksyon sa pampubliko o pribadong tanggapan (PhilID alone is sufficient and there is no need to ask for or show different IDs when transacting in public or private offices),” Abalos said.

The DILG is a member of the PhilSys Policy and Coordination Council (PSPCC) which is tasked to formulate policies and guidelines to ensure effective coordination and implementation of the PhilSys. It is also the pilot department in the entire executive branch for on-site PhilSys registration with some 1,704 people registering in the system during the activity.

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VOLUME 1, NO. 41 WEDNESDAY AUGUST 10, 2022

PROVINCIAL

The Observer.

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NegOcc assures support for IPs’ rights, well-being

By Nanette Guadalquiver

BAGO CITY – Remoteness, continuing discrimination, and lack of infrastructure and poor access to public services, such as health, water, and sanitation, have aggravated the situation of Indigenous Peoples (IP) even before the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) pandemic, Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson said on Tuesday.

To mark the International Day of the World’s IPs, Lacson assured the IPs that his government would promote their rights and well-being, particularly their access to health care services.

A local report showed there are 308,272 IPs in Negros Occidental.

“We commemorate the International Day of the World’s IPs and

celebrate their communities, their knowledge, contributions to society, and most of all, to promote and protect their rights,” Lacson said during the 1st Provincial IPs Assembly held at the Manuel Y. Torres Memorial Coliseum and Cultural Center here.

He emphasized the need to address these important concerns and recognize and promote the rights and the multi-dimensional well-being of the IPs. “We have to ensure that our IPs are not left behind, and should be able to participate on all matters affecting them,” he added.

Executive Assistant to the Governor Marie June Pavillar-Castro said under its gender and development budget for 2022, the province has allocated PHP3 million for the Support to the IPs program be-

WORLD IPs DAY. Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson (center) and Executive Assistant Marie June Pavillar-Castro (3rd from right) join the observance of the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples at the Manuel Y. Torres Memorial Coliseum and Cultural Center in Bago City on Aug. 9, 2022. Lacson assured the IPs that his government would promote their rights and well-being, particularly their access to health care services. (Photo courtesy of PIO Negros Occidental)

ing implemented by the Provincial Health Office.

“For several years now, the province supports the medical and dental missions for the IPs. These missions were not held during the pandemic, but medicines and vitamins were still being purchased and

distributed to the different IP areas,” she said.

Pavillar-Castro said the province also assisted in the IPs consultation and planning for health programs last year, and some of these are being implemented this year.

Of the 308,272 IPs in Negros

Occidental, 303,660 are considered Christianized or civilized.

Those who attended the observance of the International Day of the World’s IPs were IP groups from Kabankalan City and the municipalities of Isabela, Binalbagan, Ilog, Cauayan, and Hinoba-an.

“Ilig sang Kabuhi”

Ilonggo artists depict journey of nursing mothers, children

EDUCATION. Pangasinan State University president Dexter Buted (middle) in a press conference on July 22, 2022. Buted was with the vice presidents of the university.

Free education program to Pangasinan OSYs

By Hilda Austria LINGAYEN, Pangasinan – The Pangasinan State University (PSU) launched a program to help the out-of-school youths (OSYs) in the province to go back to school and finish their degree.

In her speech, PSU’s Student and Alumni Affairs director professor Celeste Mercado said the program called “Abot Kamay ang Kolehiyo Isang Bayanihan para sa mga OSYs” in Pangasinan (AKKBAY) aims to provide free, accessible, and quality education, and support services to OSYs who will enroll in PSU. Mercado said the program has four components including education with financial assistance, psychosocial intervention, health and medical services, and skills development.

“Under the education with financial assistance, OSYs will be preferentially admitted in the school with the degree program they are qualified to enroll in. We will provide allowance and packages for their financial needs,” she said.

For psychosocial intervention, the PSU will provide psychosocial aid and counseling for OSYS and their parents to cope with stress while learning, while assistance shelter will be provided to com-

pletely neglected and abandoned OSYs, she added.

“Under health and medical services, we will ensure that the OSYs are healthy and able to learn.

We will provide primary preventive medical care, consultation, and treatments,” Mercado said.

For skills development, the OSYs will be trained in leadership, computer literacy, sports, arts, and how to do these things in their lives, she said.

Meanwhile, PSU president Dr. Dexter Buted encouraged the Sangguniang Panlalawigan board members to pass an ordinance in support of the AKKBAY program.

“Maipasa ang ordinansa at maibahagi ito sa mga local government units (LGUs). Maglaan ng pondo para magkaroon financial assistance sa mga papasok sa school para mapalago at pagsikapan na bawasan bilang ng OSYs (We hope they will pass an ordinance and it will be adopted by the LGUs. Allot funds for the financial assistance for those who will enroll in the school so they will progress and reduce the number of OSYs),” Buted said.

Jemuel Consuelo, an OSY from Anda town, Pangasinan, said he is excited about the implementation of the program as he wants to finish his college degree.

By Perla Lena

ILOILO CITY – To encourage mothers and soon-to-be mothers to breastfeed for healthier children, 15 Ilonggo artist-advocates created over 40 artworks to raise awareness on the journey of nursing mothers.

The artworks are presented in an exhibit dubbed “Ilig sang Kabuhi” (flow of life) that will run from Aug. 8 to 22 at the SM City here and is a partnership project of the Himbon Contemporary Ilonggo Artists Group, Breastfeeding Ilonggas, Rotary Club of Midtown Iloilo, Philippine Pediatric Society Western Visayas, Iloilo City Government, and SM City Iloilo to mark the celebration of the National Breastfeeding Awareness Month.

Himbon president Harry Mark Gonzales, in an interview on Tuesday, said that as artists they believe that they have a responsibility to promote breastfeeding and its benefits.

He said breast milk is one of the best foods that a mother can give their infants.

“We have daily activities to raise awareness and encourage mothers to breastfeed their infants,” he said.

During the opening of the exhibit on Monday, participating artists did a sketching session with some of the lactating mothers and their babies.

There are also informal talks with artists and short painting sessions for those who will bring with them their art materials.

Participating artists included

GIFTS. Two of the over 40 artworks of the Himbon Contemporary Ilonggo Artists Group on display at the Breastfeeding Art Exhibit hosted by SM City Iloilo on August 8, 2022). The exhibit is one of the activities to mark the celebration of National Breastfeeding Awareness Month. (Photo courtesy of Himbon)

John Ernie Acedera, Gina Apostol, Brando Banga, Gerundio Buendia Jr., Alan Cabalfin, Eros Endencio, Vic Fario, Rachelle Acla Kim, Gilbert Labordo, Nick Lanes, Vic Nabor, Alex Ordoyo, Atty. Carol Salvatierra, Roneal Torres, and Althea Villanueva.

Apostol, who is also the group’s vice president, shared her breastfeeding experience during the opening of the exhibit.

She said that with breastfeeding, mothers infuse antibodies into their children to help them fight chronic illnesses.

“I believe that God has given us the gift of producing a child.

That is a miraculous gift for every mother. And aside from that gift of producing a child, God also gave us the gift of protecting the child from illnesses. We should always protect our women to be able to feed their

children the gift,” she said.

Labordo emphasized in his artwork the importance of sharing or donating the excess supply of breast milk by going through the correct process or connecting with experts.

He said that he was inspired to create the painting because of the breastfeeding journey of his kid that did not even reach a month.

Her wife, according to Labordo, could not produce sufficient milk so they have to resort to formula.

SM Mall manager Engr. Gilbert A. Domingo said that they looked forward to “positively influence acceptance of breastfeeding by mothers as a means to nourish their children” in his message during the opening ceremony.

The Observer.

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PH T-bill rates register mixed results RATE of the Philippines’ Treasury bills (T-bills) ended mixed on Monday, which was in line with past results as interest rates rise both here and abroad.

Average rate of the 91-day paper declined to 1.850 percent but those of the 182-day and 364-day rose to 3.211 percent and 3.635 percent.

These were at 2.090 percent, 3.188 percent, and 3.480 percent for the three-month, six-month, and one-year T-bills during the auction last August 1.

Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) offered all tenors for PHP5 billion each and the auction committee made full award across-the-board.

Total tenders for the threemonth paper reached PHP18.69 billion while it amounted to PHP17.165 billion for the sixmonth and PHP7.91 billion for the one-year papers.

Earlier, National Treasurer Rosalia de Leon traced the upticks in government security rates to the rise in the policy rates of both the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) and the Federal Reserve due mainly to the elevated inflation rates.

--Joann Villanueva

BusinessPage BusinessPage Diokno optimistic on PH economic growth FINANCE Secretary Benjamin Diokno remains optimistic that the government’s growth target of between 6.5 to 7.5 percent for this year will be achieved, noting the broad-based expansion in the second quarter of the year.

Domestic growth, as measured by gross domestic product (GDP), rose by 7.4 percent from April to June this year, slower than the downwardly revised 8.2 percent in the previous quarter. It brought the first half expansion to 7.8 percent.

“The Q2 (second quarter) growth reflects the increase in mobility, better labor conditions and government’s support to growth,” he told journalists in a viber message.

The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) reported on Tuesday that transportation and storage had the highest shares in the second quarter output after it rose 27.1 per-

cent year-on-year.

It was trailed by construction, 19 percent; and wholesale and retail trade; repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles at 9.7 percent.

Among the major economic sectors, services registered the highest contribution at 9.1 percent and was followed by industry, 6.3 percent; and agriculture, forestry, and fishing, 0.2 percent.

In terms of demand, household final consumption expenditure expanded by 8.6 percent.

The gross capital formation posted an annual growth of 20.5 percent; imports of goods and services, 13.6 percent; government final consumption expenditure, 11.1 percent; and exports of goods and services, 4.3 percent.

“While there might be some slowdown in growth in the second half of the year, reflecting the downgrade in the outlook for the global economy, we still expect that the

DBCC (Development Budget and Coordination Committee) growth target for 2022 will be achievable as we continue the ongoing infrastructure program, maintain macroeconomic stability and take advantage of the recently approved amendments to the PSA (Philippine Services Act), FIA (Foreign Investment Act), and RTLA (Retail Trade Liberalization Act) to foster investment-led recovery,” Diokno said.

He said the domestic economy needs to expand by at least 5.2 percent in the second half of the year to hit the lower end of the full-year target band, and by 7.6 percent to achieve the upper-end of the target.

Both targets are doable,” he added.

the economy will generate more income-earning opportunities.

“But the purchasing power of that income may be eroded by the high inflation, primarily resulting from increased fuel and food costs.

Consequently, the government is focused on ensuring food security and reducing transport, logistics, and energy costs,” he said.

Balisacan, chief of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA), remained optimistic that the economy can grow within revised expected 6.5 to 7.5 percent this year despite headwinds, particularly inflation, citing some positive developments like the decline in energy prices in the world market.

“Nearly 70 percent of our economy is really consumption, and services account for 60 percent of the economy so you are likely to have growth and the rest of the economy for the remainder of the year largely coming from the domestic front,” he added.

Balisacan said the economy needs to expand 5.3 percent in the

second semester to achieve the 6.5-percent growth, which is “very highly achievable”.

The GDP, on the other hand, needs to accelerate 7.2 percent in July to December to hit the upper-end of this year’s growth target, he said.

National Statistician Dennis Mapa said the country’s GDP stood at PHP9.6 trillion at constant prices in the first semester of 2022, higher compared to the 2019 first semester of PHP9.49 trillion.

At current prices, GDP current value reached PHP10.32 trillion in the first semester this year from PHP9.29 trillion during the same period in 2019, he said.

“So the first semester of 2022 both in the current prices and constant prices are already higher compared to the pre-pandemic level,” he added.

Meanwhile, Balisacan said all sectors on the production side expanded in the second quarter, driven by the services and industry sectors at 9.1 percent and 6.3 percent, respectively.

He cited the recovery of the services sectors that have been hit hard by the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19)-induced restrictions.

“Transport, accommodation, food service, and other services have shown continued yet slow signs of recovery to their pre-pandemic levels,” Balisacan said.

He said the increase in foot traffic in retail and recreation centers, given improvements in mobility and easing of border restrictions, supported the faster growth in wholesale and retail trade.

Balisacan said the agriculture sector was still weak at 0.2 percent growth as the sector remains vulnerable to natural calamities and rising input costs.

“Given the agriculture sector’s weak performance, the government will provide support through lower input costs, access to new farming technologies, financial assistance to farmers, and strengthening the agricultural value chain,” he added.

(With a report from Wilnard Bacelonia/PNA)

By Joann Villanueva

PH economy grows 7.4% in Q2 despite headwinds

By Leslie Gatpolintan

THE country’s gross domestic product (GDP) expanded by 7.4 percent in the second quarter of 2022, as the economy recovered strongly with loosened pandemic restrictions boosting economic activities.

In a press briefing Tuesday, Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said while the second-quarter economic growth was slightly lower than the median forecast of 7.5 percent for this year, the Philippines was the second best performing nation among the region’s major emerging economies that have released their reports.

Balisacan said the country was next to Vietnam’s 7.7 percent, but faster than Indonesia’s 5.4 percent and China’s 0.4 percent.

The GDP growth rate for the January to March period has been revised to 8.2 percent. It averaged 7.8 percent in the first half of the year. The economy posted a 5.9-percent pre-pandemic growth in 2019.

“Timely changes in Covid-related policies, such as easing alert levels, removing tourism restrictions, and accelerated vaccine rollout, helped increase economic activities. As of June 2022, around 85 percent of the economy is already under Alert Level 1. That these changes were implemented during the recently-held national and local elections demonstrate that, indeed, ‘living with the virus’ is possible,” Balisacan said.

He said the full reopening of

VOLUME 1, NO. 41 WEDNESDAY AUGUST 10, 2022

7

Finance Secretary Benjamin Diokno

BSP reminds public to be vigilant vs. smishing THE Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) is reminding the public to be vigilant against fraud via unsolicited emails or text messages with links that redirect the mobile user to highly suspicious websites.

These include SMiShing, a form of phishing scam where a fraudster sends a text message to trick a user into clicking on a malicious link. This malicious link, when clicked, automatically downloads malwares and/or redirects to websites that collect information that may be used for fraud.

To help prevent this, the BSP advised the public to carefully scrutinize messages; to refrain from clicking links even if these appear to be coming from banks, e-money issuers, or known companies or brands; and to protect personal information.

In a news release on Tuesday, the BSP reiterated that legitimate financial institutions will not ask for personal details and/or account credentials (e.g., username, password, OTP or one-time pin/password) from their customers via text messages or by sending links to websites.

Such websites may have been created by scammers to trick a user into disclosing login credentials, personal data, bank or credit card details, or passwords; or to introduce mobile malware.

While these websites may seem legitimate, fraudulent sites often have errors in spelling, punctuation, capitalization, and grammar.

Banks, e-money issuers, and legitimate companies exert extra effort to maintain professional websites without such errors.

Consumers who experienced SMiShing attempts are advised to report these to their banks or e-money providers immediately.

The BSP reminds the public to always protect their personal information and account details. For more information on the common types of frauds and scams, please visit https://www.bsp.gov.ph/Media_and_Research/Primers%20 Faqs/Protect_yourself_from_ Fraud_and_Scam.pdf

8

VOLUME 1, NO. 41 WEDNESDAY AUGUST 10, 2022

FEATURES

Newsmen remember FVR as ‘media darling’

By Ben Cal

MANILA – His charisma and accessibility to members of the media as a devoted public servant for nearly half a century made the late former President Fidel V. Ramos a “Darling of the Press”.

Ramos, who was popularly called FVR after his initials, or “Steady Eddie” by his peers in the military and police because of his calmness in handling difficult security matters, died last July 31 at the ripe age of 94.

Journalists who had covered FVR when he was still in the active military service, in the defense department, and later as the 12th President of the Republic of the Philippines, visited his wake at the Heritage Chapel in Taguig City last Friday where they paid tribute to his many accomplishments in nation building that lifted the country from the quagmire of serious economic and security problems through his bold decisions.

They also offered prayers for the eternal repose of his soul.

It was during the wake that former members of the Malacañang and Defense Press Corps, that the newsmen cited FVR’s unrivaled openness to media, holding a weekly press conference and answering almost all questions thrown at him, except those that would compromise national security, which he politely turned down with a smile.

During his six-year term as President, members of the Malacañang Press Corps, including this writer, were provided a Fokker plane from the Philippine Air Force (PAF) to use in going to the provinces or cities where FVR would visit. It was an exciting experience for the media.

Reporters who covered FVR during his out-of-town trips got their stories first hand.

It was during FVR’s incumbency as President that reporters wrote many stories day in and day out.

A known workaholic, FVR also allowed ambush interviews, especially when big stories broke out.

He also chatted and shared jokes with reporters, making them laugh as it was his way of dealing with the press. He even called them by their first names. It was his style that paid off.

Even before FVR’s term as the

country’s chief executive, when he was the head of the Philippine Constabulary (PC) and Integrated National Police (INP), now the Philippine National Police (PNP) and later as chief of staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Defense secretary, Ramos had a good relationship with the media, bringing them along in many of his out-of-town visits.

FVR had experienced several near-death incidents, including

a crash-landing of a PAF Fokker plane during his official visit to Catarman, Northern Samar as Defense secretary on Dec. 19, 1990.

Twelve other people, including the two pilots, also survived the incident.

Some 40 members of the Malacañang Press, including this reporter, also had a brush with death when our F-27 aircraft crash-landed at the Cotabato City airport in 1994.

After he bowed out of govern-

ment service in 1998, FVR continued his service to the country by writing a column in the Manila Bulletin, giving advice and suggestions on dealing with national issues.

With all humility, this writer had the privilege of covering FVR for the longest time from1974 until his death which enabled me to write three books on his life and destiny as a courageous soldier and outstanding leader worthy of honor and emulation.

The delivery of swift agrarian justice will be solved by hiring additional lawyers who will review pending cases, conduct fast-tracking activities, and enhance the monitoring system.

DAR also plans to intensify the delivery of modern farm equipment, fertilizers, and other needed inputs, including provision for credit assistance, capacity development, and marketing assistance for farm products.

It will tap the Department of Health for subsidies and inclusion of medical assistance for ARBs under the Medical Assistance for Indigent Patients program.

There will likewise be assistance for the educational expenses of children of ARBs; intervention for technical skills of farmers by upgrading their skills based on scientific methods through the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority; and farmto-market roads by partnering with the Department of Agriculture and Department of Public Works and Highways.

Estrella wants to help ARBs earn additional income via livestock farming through diversified income sources and provide irrigation for ARBs and ARCs, as the absence or lack of applying controlled amounts of water is a major reason for low production.

Estrella said he is targeting

to achieve 80 percent or 743,800 ARBs with improved productivity and increased income; 85 percent or 7,800 agrarian cooperatives with established and stable viable business operations managed by the ARBs; and 80 percent or 1,300 ARCs with improved business ecosystems and connectivity.

“I am confident that with these nine priority goals, the workforce of the department will do its best to implement programs and projects that will hasten land distribution, delivery of support services, and improve the economic lives of farmers,” Estrella said.

During his six-year term as President, members of the Malacañang Press Corps, including this writer, were provided a Fokker plane from the Philippine Air Force (PAF) to use in going to the provinces or cities where FVR would visit. It was an exciting experience for the media.

The late former President Fidel V. Ramos.

DAR sees self-sufficient farmers, coops in 6 years

By Marita Moaje

THE Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) wants agrarian reform beneficiaries (ARBs) to be self-sufficient, agrarian cooperatives to be progressive, and agrarian reform communities (ARCs) to be sustainable and resilient within the next six years.

These are among the plans of Secretary Conrado Estrella III contained in his priorities that he presented during the fourth Cabinet meeting of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at Malacañang Palace.

In a statement issued Tuesday, Estrella said DAR’s goals would be his guide in creating strategic plans.

Estrella hopes to implement interventions on land tenure problems through the moratorium on the payment of amortization fees and interests and pursue an aggressive, fullscale parcellation program under the Support to Parcelization of Lands for Individual Titling (SPLIT).

The Observer.

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The Observer.

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Karera Atbp.

VOLUME 1, NO. 41 WEDNESDAY AUGUST 10, 2022

9

Artorius won the Curlin Stakes at Saratoga and became the first son of Arrogate to win a stakes.

The Feifarek family in the winner’s circle after Beren’s triumph in the De Francis. From left to right: father Chris (navy shirt), mom Ellen, and son Scott.

Beren brings adults with Autism into the Winner’s Circle

THE winner’s circle was filled with family and friends after Beren’s triumph in the $150,000 Frank De Francis Memorial Dash at Laurel Park, but the day’s biggest winner was not a person or a horse.

Co-owner and breeder Chris Feifarek donates 10 percent of Beren’s earnings to Itineris, a Baltimore-based non-profit dedicated to empowering adults on the autism spectrum to live meaningful lives throughout their lifespan.

Feifarek’s 37-year-old son, Scott, is autistic. When Scott aged out of the state’s educational program at 21, Feifarek and his wife struggled to figure out what Scott might want to do next.

“Scott is non-verbal,” Feifarek explained, his voice tinged with emotion. “If he could only give you three-word sentences, we’d be at a whole different level of understanding.

You don’t even know what kind of food he prefers. We do something for him because we think he likes it, but we really don’t know.

You’re left doing the best you can with the information you have.”

The lack of autism-specific adult programs in Baltimore led Feifarek’s wife, Ellen, and several other local families to band together to form Itineris. It took several years to get the program off the ground, but today Itineris serves 100 autistic adults via life-building and goal-reaching services.

“We’ve been closely involved with Itineris for a long time,” Feifarek said. “It wasn’t just for [Scott] that we went into this; all the people with autism are going to need this.

Currently they have over 100 clients in the program, and there’s a waiting list too.

“Itineris proves the services and they get so much government funding, but because of the high staff-to-client ratio, more funding is needed. Especially after COVID, now that the program is resurfacing again as things move back toward normal, funding is still a challenge.

Coast-to-coast scores boost late Arrogate on second-crop leaderboard

By Frank Mitchell

WITH stakes winners on the West Coast and the East Coast on successive days, at Del Mar on July 28 and at Saratoga on July 29, Arrogate (by Unbridled’s Song) doubled his total number of stakes winners.

From the sire’s first crop, now three, Arrogate’s first stakes winner, Alittleloveandluck, then subsequent Grade 1 winner Secret Oath won the G3 Honeybee on her way to victory in the G1 Kentucky Oaks and becoming one of the best fillies of the year, and a third filly, Fun to Dream, won the Fleet Treat Stakes at Del Mar. Bred in California by Bob Baffert and Connie Pageler, Fun to Dream is unbeaten in two starts. The filly made her debut on May 28 at Santa Anita and won the maiden special by 6 ¼ lengths as the odds-on favorite while trained by Sean McCarthy.

Back to being trained by Baffert after his return from the wilderness, Fun to Dream made her second start in the Fleet Treat, an event restricted to California-bred or -sired fillies, and again was favored. This time, the gray filly won by 9 ¾ lengths in 1:22.67 for seven furlongs.

The dam of Fun to Dream, Lutess (Maria’s Mon), was claimed by Bob Baffert on behalf of Live Your Dream Stable for $8,000 on Feb. 17, 2012, and Lutess thus became a broodmare. Fun to Dream races for Pageler and Natalie Baffert.

The day after Fun to Dream became her sire’s third stakes winner, Artorius won the Curlin Stakes at Saratoga and became the first son of Arrogate to win a stakes.

Bred in Kentucky by Juddmonte Farms, “Artorius isn’t an overly big horse,” according to Juddmonte farm manager Garrett O’Rourke, “and he isn’t especially heavy either.

He’s more of a greyhound type, very athletic.

He had shins, and things like that delayed his progress.”

Now a winner in two of his three starts, Artorius is clearly progressive and drew off to win the listed Curlin Stakes at Saratoga by 4 ¾ lengths in 1:50.34. The dark bay colt was the second choice in the field of eight.

Artorius had been second in his debut on April 16 at Keeneland, then came back on June 10 to win a maiden special at Belmont, racing a mile in 1:35.07. The colt seemed notably professional in racing inside, then between horses, before going on to win his

race. Furthermore, the form seems solid, with Preakness third Creative Minister (Creative Cause) finishing 6 ¼ lengths back of the winner.

The Curlin was the third start for Artorius, and the race was both a step up in class and forward in distance. And it is tempting to say that the Arrogate stock want distance, but Fun to Dream showed plenty of speed in California, racing the six furlongs in 1:09.53 before finishing the seven furlongs in quick time.

Juddmonte supplied a substantial portion of Arrogate’s book each year the gray champion was at stud, and O’Rourke has seen as many of the horse’s offspring as anyone. He said that, in addition to the farm’s 3-year-olds, “we have plenty of 2-year-olds and plenty of yearlings. I always felt our 2-year-old crop was deeper than the 3-year-olds. Some of the 2-year-olds have already gone into training.

“The pattern that I think is emerging is giving them time, and when you get a good one, it’s worth the wait. That was what we found with Arrogate himself. Shins were the problem with Arrogate at two that prompted Bob to send him back to the farm. Then when he went back to training in California, he was ready.”

‘When the gates pop, he’s gone’

What makes Golden Pal such a fast starter?

By Joe Nevills

THERE may be no horse at the graded stakes level with a more explosive first step out of the gate than Golden Pal. On a regular basis, the son of Uncle Mo has displayed an early turn of foot that made elite turf sprinters appear flat-footed at the jump, akin to high school-era footage of a future NFL player being three strides off the line of scrimmage before the player across from him gets out of the set position.

In this year’s Grade 2 Shakertown Stakes at Keeneland, he already had a 2 1/2-length lead after the opening quarter-mile — against a field of sprinters — and his rivals never got any closer to him until they turned around to unsaddle. His romp in last year’s Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint looked awfully similar.

When a horse shows that much ability at a specific skill, the question becomes whether that skill was taught, or if it’s just part of his makeup as a racehorse.

Trainer Wesley Ward said it’s as much mental as it is physical.

“He’s a highly intelligent horse, and that has a lot to do with it,” Ward said. “He usually stands motionless in the gate. He doesn’t get fidgety or nervous.

“For a big horse, he’s very athletic, and moves like a cat,” Ward continued. “He’s just really quick and agile. You put all of that together, he’s standing, peering at the gate in front of him, and the millisecond it opens, he’s gone. Whereas, a lot of horses get in the gate, and are anticipating the race and looking around at what’s going on in there, the other horses are rattling around and the assistant starters are yelling at the starter. They’re

kind of taking everything in, and he’s just dead-on focused. When the gates pop, he’s gone.”

A consistent display of concentration and reflex to that degree is something Ward said he has not seen in many horses. It’s made Golden Pal a favorite of the trainer’s well before his debut start in April 2020.

Even then, in a 4 1/2-furlong main track maiden special weight at Gulfstream Park, Golden Pal blasted out to a two-length lead in the opening quarter, but he got caught at the wire.

He’d never let that happen again on U.S. soil.

“As time is progressing, you see a young athlete that develops physically and mentally, and it all comes together, that’s what I see with him; same thing,” Ward said. “Every race that went on, and every few months that went

Golden Pal winning the Shakertown at Keeneland under Irad Ortiz Jr.

by, he was getting better mentally and taking everything in. Now, he knows what his job is.”

In the mornings, Ward said he is content to let Golden Pal’s natural talent out of the gate take care of itself, instead of trying to over-coach the colt for a box he’s already checked.

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VOLUME 1, NO. 41 WEDNESDAY AUGUST 10, 2022

Where to Stay, Drink & Dine...

H O T E L S A N D R E S TA U R A N T D I R E C T O R Y

QUEZON CITY

Imperial Palace Suites ***

Timog Avenue corner Tomas Morato Avenue, Quezon City.

Tel: +63 (2) 6355099 Fax: +63 (2) 6356699 Quezon City, known for its open spaces, lush gardens and laid-back attitude. A growing city for business and leisure. The Imperial Palace sites combines the fine service of a hotel with the convenience of a condominium, offering exceptional value to travellers.

B O R A C AY

Eastwood Richmonde Hotel ****

17 Orchard Road, Eastwood, Q.C. Tel: +63 (2) 6355099 Fax: +63 (2) 6356699 With over 130 stylishly furnished guestrooms; a spacious fitness center with rooftop swimming pool; a stately ballroom; a rejuvenating spa and chic salon; plus a myriad of dining options, EASTWOOD RICHMONDE HOTEL invites you to experience convenience and luxury all under one roof. Reacquaint yourself with world-class service that is undeniably warm and gracious.

Marco Polo Plaza Cebu *****

Cebu Veterans Drive, Nivel Hills, Lahug Cebu City 6000, Philippines Tel: +63 (2) 6355099 Fax: +63 (2) 6356699 Marco Polo Plaza, Cebu is located in the prestigious Nivel Hills district where it dominates the Cebu City skyline. The hotel is surrounded by 7.5 hectares of lush greenery, and is 25 minutes from Mactan International Airport and only 10 minutes from the business and commercial centers of Cebu City. The 329 well-appointed guest rooms and suites are equipped with wireless broadband Internet.

CEBU

Crown Regency Boracay -

Boat Station 3, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan Tel: +63 (2) 6355099 Fax: +63 (2) 6356699 Located at the Boat Station 3 white beachfront, the 40-unit resort owes its design inspired by a sun-drenched island. A beautiful view of the sunset, creating an amazing display of amber hues exemplifying the passion of fire. Essences of the Fire element are shown in patterns of sunshine as streaks of sunlight penetrate the warm and vibrant interiors of the resort.

Marriott Hotel Cebu *****

Torre Venezia ***

#62 Timog Ave., cor. Scout Santiago St., QC, 1103, MM, Phils.

Tel: +63 (2) 6355099 Fax: +63 (2) 6356699 Towering along Timog Avenue, Quezon City, Torre Venezia offers contemporary accommodation for guests traveling for both business and leisure. It is conveniently located within the country’s media center, wellness hub, and developing business and commercial districts. Its proximity to mass transit systems, highways, and major thoroughfares, makes it a very accessible destination.

Balabag, Boracay, Malay, Aklan, Philippines Tel: +63 (2) 6355099 Fax: +63 (2) 6356699 Experience the crystal clear waters and powder-white sand of the island like never before with Boracay Regency. With its striking Mediterranean-inspired architecture, landscaped gardens and expansive beach front, this is a resort that stands unparalleled in beauty and service in the entire island. Boracay Regency allows you to relax and luxuriate within its 285 world-class rooms.

Cardinal Rosales Avenue Cebu City, 6000 Philippines Tel: +63 (2) 6355099 Fax: +63 (2) 6356699 Located in an upscale financial district with shopping, recreation and leisure activities at our doorstep, the Cebu City Marriott Hotel offers an incredible location for business or leisure travel. We’re adjacent to the Ayala Center, a sprawling shopping and commercial complex, and just 10 minutes from downtown and the Cebu International Convention Center.

Crown Regency Hotel Fuente ****

Osmena Blvd. Cebu City 6000, Philippines Tel: +63 (2) 6355099 Fax: +63 (2) 6356699 At the Center of Cebu City, Philippines rises the Fuente Towers, hosting the prestigious Crown Regency Hotel & Towers.

The tallest structure outside Metro Manila, the 23-storey, 22,000-square meter Fuente 1 and its equally arresting twin the 38storey, 36,000- square meter Fuente Tower 2 majestically tower over the Queen City of the South.

Fernandina 88 Suites Hotel ***

# 222 P. Tuazon Blvd., Cubao, Q.C. Tel: +63 (2) 6355099 Fax: +63 (2) 6356699 Discover the pleasure of Luxury Living at suprisingly affordable room rates at Fernandina 88 Suites Hotel located at the heart of Araneta Shopping Center, Cubao, Quezon City. This twelve storey hotel has amenities that perfectly suit the needs of Tourists, Businessmen and Families while staying in a strategic location where first class malls and restaurants are all a few steps away.

Boracay Regency Beach Resort *****

SUBIC

Regalia Tower Suites ***

15/F Tower B, P. Tuazon Ave., Cubao, Quezon City 1109 Philippines Tel: +63 (2) 6355099 Fax: +63 (2) 6356699 The Regalia Tower Suites - the condotel component of the Regalia Park Towers in the Araneta Center provides de luxe hotel accommodation and services in the heart of this dynamic business center. It is just a stone’s throw-away to what the Araneta Business and Shopping Center has to offer.

The Observer.

Observer.com

Cebu Parklane International Hotel ****

Corner Arch. Reyes Ave. and Escario St. Cebu City, Philippines Tel: +63 (2) 6355099 Fax: +63 (2) 6356699 It must be The Parklane! A hip new hotel with a cool, stylish point of view. Its art deco design blends beautifully with its state-of-the-art facilities and the city’s blue skyline and surrounding hills. The Parklane’s signature of excellence is defined by its perfect location, fine amenities and personalized service. Or right inside its doors!

Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort ****

Buyong, Maribago, Mactan Cebu, Philippines Tel: +63 (2) 6355099 Fax: +63 (2) 6356699

Island,

Maribago Bluewater Beach Resort is a AAA 5 hectare resort that sits on prime white beach sand in Mactan Island, Cebu, Philippines. Maribago Bluewater has 2 lagoon-shaped swimming pools, 102 luxuriously furnished cottages with hot & cold running water, mini bar, refrigerator, individual airconditioning and individual private verandas.

Fridays Boracay *****

Boracay Island Malay 5608, Aklan Tel: +63 (2) 6355099 Fax: +63 (2) 6356699 A resort that truly spells out an enjoyable and memorable stay in Boracay. That would be Friday’s! We are a Department of Tourism “AAA” accredited self-contained 34-room resort taking pride with our astounding amenities: freshwater swimming pool, beachfront bar, and 120-seat capacity restaurant considered by many to be the finest in the island.

La Carmela de Boracay Resort Hotel ***

Near Boat Station 2, Balabag, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan Province, Philippines Tel: +63 (2) 6355099 Fax: +63 (2) 6356699 Enjoy your dream in one of the world’s finest beaches in the Heart of Boracay. La Carmela de Boracay, one of the newest resort hotels in the island, offers you all these at affordable rates. Note: There will be a seventy five pesos (Php75) per person Environmental Fee and fifty pesos (Php50) per person Terminal Fee to be paid at the Caticlan Jetty Port

Fairways and Bluewater Resort and Country Club ***** Newcoast, Boracay Island, Malay, Aklan, Philippines Tel: +63 (2) 6355099 Fax: +63 (2) 6356699

Imagine the mesmerizing detail of a tropical retreat: shimmering white sand, sensuous sun and a somnolent sea. A tropical sea. A tropical toast. A dive into adventure. And yield - to the wild sensation of sun, sand, and sea. A breathless apparition, Fairways & Bluewater, Newcoast, Boracay reinvents an island adventure the way it’s meant to be.

ADVERTISING: 0927-862-3600

Court Meridian Hotel & Suites

Lot B, Waterfront Road corner Rojas St. Central Business District, Subic Bay Freefort Zone Court Meridian Hotel & Suites Located right at the center of Subic Freeport, along waterfront, the hotel takes pride in its 67 spacious and fully furnished luxury guestrooms, equipped with superior amenities. Their facilities and services are designed to give the guests maximum comfort and convenience. Housed in a very quiet environment, close to the seas and nature, Court Meridian Hotel has become an ideal place for tourist, nature lovers and people wanting to unwind from the daily pressures of work. Away from the hassles of noise and distractions, Court meridian Hotel makes a perfect choice from team building sessions, strategic planning, seminars and social events.

The 67 rooms of Court Meridian Hotel enjoy views of Subic and the working street or the vibrant Waterfront Road. Each has a separate shower, fully stocked mini bar, king size bed and innovative luxury modern appointments, ensuring a comfortable stay. Rooms are categorized into Deluxe, Executive Suite, Superior, Superior deluxe with veranda and Superior deluxe without veranda.

Truly, Courtyard Inn is unrivaled when it comes to having a Subic hotel that offers everything you need and then some. It features modern amenities, contemporary style, and a relaxed atmosphere in all its guest rooms that is perfect for any type of visitor. Restaurants, parks, churches, bay walks, water sports rentals, karaoke bars, billiard halls, and coffee shops at the Freeport can’t be nearer when staying at Courtyard Inn Subic.

Courtyard Inn is your gateway to fun in the freeport. The hotel’s prime location places it in the heart of a leisure hub.

Enjoy jet skiing and other aquasports, nature treks and motorbiking in any of the nearby sports outlets. Courtyard Inn’s younger guests can enjoy the children’s playground.

The Observer.

Observer.com Food, beverage firm kicks off efforts to reach plastic neutrality

MANILA – Universal Robina Corp. (URC), one of the country’s largest food and beverage companies, has kicked off a slew of initiatives to collect, recover, and divert plastic waste as part of its overall goal to achieve plastic neutrality.

These include long-term collaborative projects on waste management that cover community engagement and linking with local recyclers.

“We are aiming to make lasting, concrete changes on an institutional level, in a way that affects all operations and demonstrates our resolve as a world-class manufacturer,” URC’s president and chief executive officer Irwin Lee said in a statement Thursday.

“The culminating goal,” he said, “is to establish a sustainable value chain within a few years.”

With “Juan Goal for Plastic”, URC hopes to help convert post-consumer waste into something useful, and to be an active part of consumers’ collect-and-recycle activities.

Under this program, several plastic collection sites have been set up in the country, with more to be opened within the year.

Through its La Carlota sugar mill in Negros Occidental and in partnership with the city of La Carlota, Barangay Roberto Salas Benedicto (RSB) and the Sangguniang Kabataan of Barangay RSB, URC is collecting PET (polyethylene terephthalate) bottles and other types of plastic every month. It is exchanging plastic waste for cash, matching weight for “environmental points”.

URC’s plant in Bagong Ilog partnered with the Pasig City government and Basic Environmental Systems & Technologies, Inc. (BEST) to collect plastic twice a week in exchange for environmental points that can be used to redeem URC products or school supplies.

In General Mariano Alvarez (GMA), Cavite, URC’s plant teamed up with the local government of GMA and Municipal Environment and Natural Resources Office (MENRO) to collect plastic every month in exchange for URC products.

ARTS&TRAVEL

DOT to strengthen Filipino brand of service

MANILA – Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco bared Thursday the Department of Tourism (DOT)’s immediate plans to facilitate an interagency technical working group (TWG) which seeks to strengthen the capacity of micro-entrepreneurs such as food vendors to provide quality tourism services.

The DOT, Frasco said, has reached out to the Department of Trade and Industry, Department of the Interior and Local Government, Department of Agriculture, and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, which shall comprise the TWG. “We are facilitating this interagency technical working group (TWG) for the purpose of commencing discussions on the implementation of standards to ensure high quality of tourism services which include regulations on accommodations, services, and pricing standards,” Frasco said in a press release sent to the media on Saturday.

The tourism chief said the DOT can help improve the standards of treating tourists in all destinations through the facilitation of various training under the Filipino Brand of Service Excellence (FBSE) Program.

The FBSE Program promotes the best qualities and positive values of Filipino hospitality.

It is envisioned to enhance and uplift the quality of tourism services in the country aimed at fostering excellent service to tourists as part of our distinct Filipino brand.

Excellence in service becomes a regional brand and a holistic national identity.

With three unique modules, the tourism program aims to instill a culture of service excellence among tourism stakeholders in the country and raise the quality of service standards among the workforce in key tourism and service sectors.

“If we are able to come together to agree on certain standards that our destinations would comply with, then this would redound

Manandeg through his page has been visiting and sharing honest reviews and significant details of the unexplored tourist attractions in the province since 2018.

“It all started in 2018 when my friends asked me to make a Facebook page and write my personal experience on the places I visited in Pangasinan since they usually ask me which beaches or resorts in the province they should go to and where is the best restaurant in the province where they could eat, so I could also share it to other people,” he said.

At first, it was just a personal blog of his experiences but as he further explored the province, he discovered that there are more beautiful places that are not given much attention or needed more promotion.

11

Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco

The training, Frasco noted, will be open to all interested tourism stakeholders, and would be facilitated by the DOT Office of Industry Manpower Development together with the DOT Region 7 Office in coordination with the local government units.

MANGROVE REFORESTATION. Volunteers plant 20,000 mangrove seedlings in mudflats at the boardwalk vicinity in Tanjay City, Negros Oriental. The Allied Mangrove Planting Organizations in Negros Oriental aims to reach its goal of planting 600,000 mangrove trees by October. (Photo: Sidney Lee)

DOT, Bohol probe ‘overpriced’ Volunteer groups vow to sustain seafood in Virgin Island MANILA – The Department of Tourism (DOT) is in touch with Bohol province over the alleged overpricing of seafood by vendors at Virgin Island in Panglao.

In a statement Tuesday night, Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco said this is a matter that DOT “takes seriously especially as it concerns the welfare of tourists whose continued support for our destinations is critical to the recovery of the tourism industry”.

“While the DOT understands the current predicament and challenges faced by many tourism-related businesses and establishments that are gradually recouping losses due to previously imposed travel restrictions, I believe that due care must always be given to the overall experience of tourists whether it concerns upholding the quality of accommodations, attaining a certain level of service, or ensuring the reasonable pricing of products,” she said.

“Tourism is a shared responsibility, and it is in helping each other along this period of recovery that we can fully enjoy the benefits that tourism brings,” she added.

The Tourism chief thanked Bohol Governor Aris Aumentado and the municipality of Panglao for conducting an investigation on the issue.

She said the DOT has also tapped the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to ensure that “reasonable pricing standards are upheld for purposes of consumer protection”.

In addition, the DOT Central Visayas is coordinating with local government units in the region to provide guidance on standards for the provision of tourist goods and services.

Frasco said the regional office would likewise extend training for frontline tourism workers and stakeholders in the island.

--Joyce Ann L. Rocamora

“I am not doing it for myself but more on for the province because I really want to share how beautiful our province is and to help boost our tourism. In that case, there will be more Pangasinenses who will be given jobs like the bangkeros and local tour guides,” Manandeg said.

He said he is not after the recognition or award but is just enjoying his craft.

“I am just happy to help our province,” he added.

Manandeg admitted he was hindered at first by lack of transportation.

“It was really difficult to go to these places since these are secluded and unexplored areas, so I tapped my friends who have motorcycles to join me just to see the place,” he said.

He said he is elated to know that more Pangasinenses are being

inspired by his page to travel Pangasinan, especially the residents themselves.

“More beaches and mountains are being discovered. And I am happy to help the local businesses,” Manandeg said.

He chose The Pangasinan Nomad as his page’s name as he usually goes from one place to another, enjoying camping or staying with friends.

His signature look is wearing a straw hat or fedora and more often than not travels by himself. On some occasions, he is joined by either his sister or some friends.

The blogger’s ultimate favorites are the beaches in Agno and Bani towns such as the Bangol Crags, Abagatanen Beach, Lacguit Beach, Barsak Beach and Masangret Beach. (PNA)

The Pangasinan Nomad: Unofficial tourism ambassador

From page 12

to the overall improvement of our tourism industry because in the end, tourists will be delighted with every destination that they visit, and keep coming back,” Frasco added.

She said the FBSE training will cover topics such as Service Excellence, Understanding and Engaging Customers, and Complaints Handling.

“The training for the tourism community in Virgin Island, Bohol will commence next week,” she said.

VOLUME 1, NO. 41 WEDNESDAY AUGUST 10, 2022

mangrove planting in NegOr DUMAGUETE CITY – An alliance of volunteer groups in Negros Oriental has committed to planting thousands of mangrove trees yearly and relentlessly to protect the province’s shorelines and support global efforts against climate change.

Sidney Lee, the planting coordinator of the Allied Mangrove Planting Organizations (AMPO), said in an interview on Tuesday that they target to plant 600,000 mangrove trees by October.

“We have already planted 520,000 mangrove trees since October 2015, and last July 23, we were able to plant an additional 20,000 mangrove seedlings at the boardwalk area in Tanjay City,” Lee said.

“The remaining 60,000 mangrove trees for our target this year can be easily accomplished by then, as there are plenty of volunteers willing to undertake the activity each month.”

He explained the need to raise awareness of the importance of mangroves, saying that not all people understand the role of these coastal trees or shrubs that provide not only shoreline protection but also food and shelter to animals.

“Mangroves are also a natural habitat for certain marine creatures and help in carbon sequestration that can result in reduced carbon footprint, no matter how small,” Lee said. “They play a very important role in carbon sequestration, which do twice as much than terrestrial trees.”

He said while mangroves are common in the Philippines, with 33 species growing throughout the archipelago, they are under threat because humans use these coastal trees for firewood.

The sea forest restoration effort in the province began in 2015 with the Negros Oriental ROTC

(Reserve Officers’ Training Corps) Association of Corps Commanders (NORACC), of which Lee is a member, taking the lead to plant one million mangrove trees in 10 years.

The local government unit of Tanjay City in Negros Oriental back then agreed to allow the NORACC to rehabilitate and restore 52 hectares of mudflats around its boardwalk to be planted with mangrove trees.

“This is our primary site for the massive mangrove forest restoration, with the 540,000 trees and seedlings already planted,” Lee said.

The NORACC later spearheaded the informal coalition of AMPO, comprising 12 non-government organizations that have volunteered to join the advocacy to revive the declining mangrove forests in the Tanjay boardwalk, now a famous tourist destination.

He said in their early years, they planted 100,000 mangrove trees a year but the pandemic slowed down their efforts for about two years.

The boardwalk was locked down so the group had to find an alternative area in Banilad in this capital city, where they planted mangroves when the quarantine restrictions had already eased, Lee said.

“But our goal is to actually be able to plant one million mangrove trees at the boardwalk in 10 years, and we are optimistic that we can achieve that, many thanks to the volunteers from the government and non-government sectors, including the youth,” he added.

In the coming years, the alliance will go beyond the boardwalk mudflats to continue its advocacy for rejuvenating and planting more mangroves across the province.

-- Mary Judaline Partlow

The Observer

ARTS&TRAVEL .com

12

VOLUME 1, NO. 41 WEDNESDAY AUGUST 10, 2022

Pangasinan Nomad: Unofficial tourism ambassador

By Hilda Austria

CALASIAO, Pangasinan – Before the vlogger and Tiktok era, The Pangasinan Nomad page was the primary source of information on where and what to explore in the province of Pangasinan.

The Pangasinan Nomad with over 24,000 followers at present is the personal blog page of Rodolfo Manandeg Jr. of Calasiao, Pangasinan. Turn to Page 11

INSIDE

MASANGRET COVE. Rodz Manandeg Jr. poses under a rock formation at Masangret Cove in Agno, Pangasinan in this undated photo. Manandeg features different places in the province of Pangasinan in his personal blog, The Pangasinan Nomad on Facebook. (Photo from The Pangasinan Nomad FB page)

DOT, Bohol probe ‘overpriced’ seafood in Virgin Island

DOT to strengthen Filipino brand of service

W here to Stay, Drink & Dine...

H O T E L S A N D R E S TA U R A N T D I R E C T O R Y

- Page 10