Dumaguete Metropost, February 5, 2023 edition

Army soldiers and other interested readers comb through a mounds of books from the Silliman University Library, which is giving out thousands of books to schools and individuals in preparation for its ongoing renovation. (Photo by Judy

City Council asks MDW to defer VAT

The Dumaguete City Council has asked the Metro Dumaguete Water to defer its plan to pass on the 12 percent Value-Added Tax to consumers effective Feb. 1 this year.

The Council made the request on mass motion, and invited the MDW to the Feb. 7 Council session, after Councilor JV Imbo brought the matter to the Council’s attention in a privilege speech.

Councilor Imbo read the flyers that were distributed by MDW announcing the VAT collection, and noted that the MDW had been absorbing the VAT for the last two years, and did not pass on the tax to their water subscribers.

The MDW, in their flyers, said it could no longer continue to absorb the VAT as they had

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Guv eyes creating new province Alcala, 93

Confirmed 4,073,739

3,998,380

65,839 Active Cases 9,520 Population 112,508,994

Source: Worldometers.info

Negros Oriental Gov. Roel Degamo has proposed the creation of a third province in Negros Island to “level the playing field” in terms of representation in the Regional Development Council under the proposed Negros Island Region.

The Governor announced his idea in a meeting with Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Lacson on Wednesday here in Dumaguete. Both Governors met in private in a hotel in this Capital to discuss various issues confronting the two provinces, including the creation of the Negros Island Region.

Aside from the two Negros provinces and Siquijor, the fourth province that the Negros Oriental Governor proposed will comprise Vallehermoso town, and San Carlos City and Escalante in Negros Occidental.

He had repeatedly pointed out that the creation of NIR will put Negros Oriental at a disadvantage as it would only have three congressional districts, compared to Negros Occidental which would have seven.

Also, Negros Oriental has only six

National Scientist Dr. Angel C. Alcala died Wednesday early afternoon in a hospital here where he was confined the past three days. He was 93.

The information about his death, which went viral on Facebook by early afternoon, was confirmed by his youngest son, veterinarian Ely Alcala.

Alcala grew up in a fishing village in Cauayan town in Negros Occidental. The work of his father as a fisherman inspired him to finish his Biology course at Silliman University in 1951, magna cum laude. He left for Stanford University on TO PAGE 2

Dumaguete Vice Mayor Maisa Longa-Sagarbarria, flanked by Tanjay City Mayor Jose “Pepe” Orlino and Vice Mayor Neil Salma, visits her hometown of Tanjay to celebrate the 2023 Children’s Festival in honor of Señor Sto. Niño. (Photo by Joseph Banabana)

F. Partlow)

and

San Jose town grows tilapia

Residents of the upland community in Janayjanay, San Jose, Negros Oriental recently met with stakeholders to celebrate the successful harvesting of its upland tilapia farming.

The initiative was organised through the coordination of DOST Negros Oriental Provincial S&T Office and Negros Oriental State University.

The DOST Regional Office, through its Community Empowerment through Science & Technology (CEST) program provided the funds while NORSU Extension Office implemented the project.

DOST Regional Director Engr. Jesus Zamora Jr. visited the farmer beneficiaries to witness the ceremonial harvesting of the first batch of tilapia grown in the fish pens constructed through DOST CEST funds.

RD Zamora said that DOST is supporting the upland community of Janayjanay in their upland fish farming through S&T interventions as a means to strengthen their food security and nutrition intake.

“Ang panghinaut namo sa DOST nga mapadaghan ninyo ang mga tilapia ug ma-sustain ninyo kini nga project,” added Engr. Zamora.

The project is managed by the Janayjanay Farmers Association.

“Among paningkamotan nga sa mga molabay nga mga adlaw molambo gyud ning maong proyekto. Amo gyung ning atimanon kay kini gihatag gyud para kanamo”, said Eduardo Pegarum, JFA President.

Present during the ceremonial harvesting were representatives from partner agencies like the Department of Environment & Natural Resources, the local government unit of San Jose, and the Provincial Agriculturist’s Office.

CEST is a package of S&T interventions which aims to build progressive, empowered and resilient rural communities. The program aims to empower the poorest and most depressed communities in the country, via S&T interventions in health and nutrition, water and sanitation, basic education and literacy, livelihood/economic enterprise development, and disaster riskreduction and climate change adaptation. (Reinhold Jek Abing/ DOST NegOr)

cities compared to Negros Occidental which has 11.

The creation of NIR would also mean there will be no equal share in resources and income, apart from the language barrier, the Negros Oriental Governor added.

Governor Lacson, for his part, said he respects the position of Degamo who is opposing the proposed creation of a one-island region.

Lacson said he understands where the Negros Oriental Governor is coming from, and that he respects the latter’s decision.

Governor Lacson said he is hopeful that once these concerns have been ironed out, “perhaps he [Degamo] might reverse his decision”.

“We also came up with some possibilities that may somehow convince him,” Governor Lacson said. “What is important is that we will continue to keep our lines open, and this will not be the last time that we will sit down and talk, and maybe next time, I will be in a better position to answer the issues he has raised”, he added.

Meanwhile, Bacolod City Mayor Alfredo Benitez said the Negros Oriental Governor’s opposition to the creation of the NIR due to the “supposed lack of equal footing” on the part of his Province can be addressed.

“Why don’t we address the issue at hand? If his complaint is fair representation, why don’t we hear him out, and address it with a solution, rather than having a third (Negros) province?” he suggested.

The proposed executive order for the creation of the NIR is being drafted, and will soon be presented to the Department of the Interior & Local Government, Mayor Benitez said in Bacolod Thursday.

“All the Departments are now collating the list of offices and manpower

Local ELCAC expanded

complement. I will present this to Sec. Benhur (Benjamin) Abalos (Jr.) for our EO proposal to the President. We’re doing an inventory of the offices in Bacolod and in Dumaguete,” he told reporters.

Benitez, a staunch supporter of the campaign to create the NIR, said discussions continue on whether a sub-region or a one-island region will be formed under the EO.

“We’re still arguing or debating whether it will become a sub-region, like Region 6-A, Region 7-A, or NIR, which is one island, one region,” he added.

Benitez said by this month, they could have the draft proposal submitted to Abalos for approval of the President.

The Bacolod Mayor, who has been pushing for the issuance of an EO before the passage of the legislation creating the new region, had earlier submitted a position paper to the House of Representatives, wherein he reiterated his idea of dividing Region 6 (Western Visayas) into two regions.

These include Region 6-A comprising the four Panay Island provinces of Iloilo, Capiz, Aklan and Antique, and Guimaras; and Region 6-B, with the two Negros Island provinces and Siquijor.

In the House of Representatives, Benitez’s brother, 3rd District Rep. Jose Francisco Benitez, had underscored the need to thresh out “significant details” for the creation of the NIR amid the opposition by the Negros Oriental Governor.

Last month, the House committee on local government approved the substitute or consolidated bill, titled An Act Establishing the NIR, and Appropriating Funds Thereof, which provides that the NIR will be created composed of the provinces of Negros Oriental, Negros Occidental, and Siquijor. (PNA)

The Provincial Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict has reorganized and expanded its membership to intensify the antiinsurgency campaign in the province.

Gov. Roel Degamo, chair of Negros Oriental TFELCAC, said under E.O. 70 of former President Duterte, the Provincial Development Council, and the Provincial Peace and Order Council will be the members of the task force including all the mayors and civil society organizations.

Through the ‘“wholeof-nation approach,” the Governor said the provincial government has been implementing infrastructure projects for different insurgencyaffected barangays.

ALCALA....FROM

a Fulbright scholarship in the late 50s where he earned his masteral and doctoral degrees in 1966. Afterwhich, he came back to Silliman to teach Biology.

In the 1970s, Alcala, an avid SCUBA diver, focused their research team’s efforts on the rehabilitation of coral reefs, establishing as well artificial coral reefs. In 1974, he established the Silliman University Marine Laboratory as a research facility, now called the Institute of Environmental & Marine Sciences.

By 1991, he was appointed as the ninth president of Silliman, but he had to cut it short after two years to join the Cabinet of President Fidel Ramos as DENR Secretary. At the time of his death, Alcala was vicechairperson of the Silliman Board of Trustees.

Dr. Alcala was given in 1992 the Ramon Magsaysay Award for “pioneering scientific leadership in restoring and protecting coral reefs” in the Philippines; and the Pew Fellowship in Marine Conservation in 1999.

He also served as chairperson of the Commission on Higher Education until 1999. He returned to the Silliman campus by the sea after that

The governor said the national government also pledged some P4 million for each of the identified conflict barangays.

He said that through the national government funds, the roads of Barangays Luyang, Pantiao, Cabcaban, Nalundan in Mabinay town have already been cemented.

“With these road constructions, we observed that there was no more reported presence of NPAs in the areas,” the governor added.

For now, the provincial government will start the construction of a P10million primary hospital in the far-flung area of Tamlang Valley to cater to the barangay residents.

The setting up of Tamlang Valley Community Primary Hospital aims to

to continue his researches in the field.

He founded in 1999 the SU Angelo King Center for Research & Environmental Management, generating hundreds of peerreviewed researches in marine biology, and completing hundreds more in collaboration with international experts around the globe.

In June 2014, President Noynoy Aquino conferred on Dr. Alcala the Order of National Scientists of the Philippines award in the field of Biological Sciences, the highest honors bestowed on Filipino scientists, for his research work on the ecology of amphibians and reptiles, marine biodiversity, and marine-protected areas.

Dr. Alcala had pioneered in the 70s the establishment of notake marine sanctuaries, especially in Apo Island off the coast of the town of Dauin in Negros Oriental. The island-barangay eventually became the world’s model for community-based coastal resources management.

He had recommended leaving a quarter of any area as off limits to fishing activities to allow marine organisms and fish to spawn without human

MANILA -- A sari-sari store market intelligence platform recorded a fivefold increase in beer sales despite the liquor ban at the recent Sinulog Festival that drew an estimated crowd of two million this year.

The platform Sari IQ, managed by Packworks, found on Jan. 15 that the total gross merchandise value of beer products from sari-sari stores within the Sinulog vicinity outperformed brandy and gin, compared to sales the previous day.

address health concerns and insurgency problem in the barangays of Sta. Catalina, Pamplona, and Valencia towns.

The provincial task force also proposed a socialized housing or ‘pabahay’ project worth P20 million for former members of the Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army.

With the cooperation and assistance of all stakeholders, the Governor said he expects the insurgency problem in the Province will be eradicated.

“We are 80 percent towards gearing a zero insurgency, and the remaining 20 percent is getting lesser. So let’s put forth more effort to our work,” said the Governor. (JCT/PIA7 NegOr)

distractions. It had since been referred to as the 25 Percent Solution.

[Just last week, Dr. Alcala informed this reporter that the no-take reserve should be adjusted to 30 percent.]

Even in his retirement, Dr. Alcala continued to champion environmental causes that were close to his heart. He wasted no time calling up people he had worked with in the communities to remind them of the dangers of destroying the environment with too much modernization, and their responsibility to the environment.

Dr. Alcala, who was a prolific columnist and supporter of the Dumaguete MetroPost, had vehemently advised against a proposal by the Dumaguete government to establish a 174-hectare reclamation project which would destroy the environment. He was also against the setting up of a jetty port near the marine sanctuary in Apo Island.

Alcala is survived by his wife of 70 years, Naomi Lusoc-Alcala, and their children: Estrilda Cruzam, Angelo, Moses, Emily Layos, Grace Gloria, and Ely, and their families.

(Irma Faith Pal)

The spike in sales may be due to strict liquor ban enforcement in retail establishments, leading people to buy from sarisari stores that have lenient rules and lower retail prices, according to the analysis made by Fourth Wall, Packworks’ socio-cultural research firm partner.

Drinking for socialization

Further analysis from Fourth Wall revealed there is a reason why Filipinos tend to defy liquor bans during festivals, and it runs as deep as the Spanish era.

Historically speaking, the missionary accompanying Magellan on this voyage, Antonio Pigafetta, had documented scenarios of drinking sessions among Filipinos to celebrate their fleet’s arrival.

Drinking is commonly associated with socializing, but it has also been linked

done in the last two years, citing increased costs of operations and materials.

The City of Dumaguete has also scheduled the collection of new fees on MDW’s maintenance activities, which is retroactive to 2021.

Councilor Imbo requested MDW to continue absorbing the tax, citing the hardships of ordinary Dumaguetenons.

Councilor Antonio Remollo echoed Imbo’s statement, repeating his argument that the Dumaguete City Water District had no reason to enter into a Joint Venture Agreement with a private entity as it was not mismanaged, and was in good financial condition, as they were able to give up to 18 months bonuses to their employees.

Councilor Miguel Agustin Perdices, meanwhile, questioned whether MDW enjoys the use of the DCWD water franchise.

He asked for an explanation from MDW and DCWD about their partnership to see if they are allowed to collect VAT.

Councilor Joken Arbas, for his part, said that while DCWD owns the assets, MDW is taxable, as it is a private entity.

Councilor Ma Fe. Cordova, meanwhile, said changing the law to exempt water companies from VAT will take a long time, as she joined the appeals of her colleagues for MDW not to collect VAT at this time.

Filipinos have penchant for drinking during fiestas, study confirms

DOST Regional Director Engr. Jesus Zamora Jr. in striped shirt) witnesses the harvesting of tilapia in an upland fish farm in San Jose town. With him were DOST Provincial Director Atty. Gilbert Arbon (leftmost) and NORSU Vice President Dr. Merivic Catada (3rd from right).

P. 1

UNDP names Balinsasayao Lakes as ‘priorities’

The UN Development Programme-Biodiversity

Finance project has chosen the Twin Lakes of Balinsasayao and Danao in Negros Oriental as among its six featured areas in the Philippines for the Year of the Protected Areas (YoPA) campaign.

Gregg Yan, UNDPBioFin consultant, in an interview with the media on Tuesday, said the YoPA campaign aims to highlight the critical role of protected areas for people and nature.

“The Balinsasayao Twin Lakes and the five other featured areas were chosen for this YoPA campaign because they are not as widely promoted as the

other protected areas in the country,” Yan said.

There are 247 protected areas in the Philippines, he said.

The Twin Lakes lies in the municipalities of Valencia, Sibulan and San Jose with a rich biodiversity and serve as habitat for rare flora and fauna species, such as the endangered Negros spotted deer and the almaciga (Agathis philippinensis) tree, among many others.

It provides water to about half-a-million people in the surrounding areas, Yan said.

In 2000, the Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park, spanning 8,016.05 hectares,

DSWD awards P3.6M to Manjuyod

The municipality of Manjuyod has received information, education, and communication activities with the provision of Department of Healthrecommended amenities, medical tools, equipment, supplies, PPEs, and disinfectants to its eight health stations worth P3.6 million.

Regional Director

Shalaine Marie Lucero of Department of Social Welfare & Development turned over the facilities through the Kapitbisig Laban sa Kahirapan Comprehensive & Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KaLahiCIDSS) program.

The provision of these resources is a result of the collaborative efforts of community volunteers and barangay officials in Balaas, Libjo, Poblacion, San Jose, Sta. Monica, Sundo-an, and Dungo-an.

A volunteer group called the Barangay Development Council-Technical Working Group oversees the implementation of their sub-projects, which they

identified as their priority needs.

The KaLahi-CIDSS continues to bring community projects as a result of people’s participation as well as improved local governance as key principles of the program.

The supplies given will be used by the health stations from the said barangays to augment their resources in managing the COVID-19 pandemic and address other healthcare concerns in the community.

Previously, Manjuyod also received several projects including the concreting of access roads in Barangays Alangilanan, Concepcion, Bagtic, and Lamogong; a pathway in Sacsac, and the improvement of existing health stations in San Isidro and Tubod.

All these are funded under the Additional Financing of the National Community-Driven Development Program of the KaLahi-CIDSS which aims to strengthen basic

MDW builds handwashing facilities for the schools

Metro Dumaguete Water turned over a 10-faucet handwashing facility to the Dumaguete City National High School Wednesday, as part of its Hugas Luwas Eskwelahan program.

Hugas Luwas is a community handwashing program in partnership with the government of Dumaguete which aims to support the fight against CoViD-19 by promoting proper routine handwashing and sanitation, and providing further access to clean water.

With the goal of the national government to fully bring back face-to-face classes in schools, MDW kicked off the Hugas Luwas Eskwelahan, focused on equipping schools with the facilities adapting to the new normal.

City High School

Principal Dr. Alden Rabina thanked MDW for their continued support to the schools in Dumaguete citing its programs as creating a good and safe environment for the students.

was declared a protected area by the government and is governed by a Protected Area Management Board.

The UNDP-BioFin team visited the Twin Lakes last Jan. 13 in line with the celebration of World Wetlands Day on Feb. 2, but were unfortunate to get caught in stormy weather, Yan said.

Nevertheless, they managed to visit the almost zero visibility Lake Balinsasayao, and also viewed the lush vegetation and surroundings from the view deck.

Tourists can enjoy

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CAMPUS NEWS

Silliman library gives away old books

The Silliman University Library has invited the Deprtment of Education school divisions, local government units, and the Philippine Army to get free books from the main library or help transport them to the community libraries since Jan. 30.

According to Rey Dennis Caballero, Information & Communications Technology manager of the SU Library, the books for disposal/donation are not part of its active collection, and are available for anyone who is interested.

“[These are] books accumulated through the years through book donations from alumni and friends, with the intention that SU Library would also be the conduit for community donation. Added to these books [being given away] are multiple copies,” Caballero explained. “Rest assured that our SU library resources are balanced, current, and relevant, in various formats, reflective of the academic priorities of the University, and significant research studies in all areas of discipline offered here,” he added.

He said the University’s book donation program, established in 2017, used to involve library staff going to communities and various schools to deliver books for donation.

Due to the ongoing renovation of the library, Caballero said they decided instead to ask possible recipients to come to the library to pick their respective selections.

“These are free books for school and community libraries, and not for the personal use of individuals outside the SU community,” Caballero clarified.

He said they have also accommodated requests by Silliman students, faculty and staff to pick books they are interested in.

Early this year, University Librarian Sarah Angela Ragay issued a memo to the academic heads about the “library transformation” and modernization starting January. For at least one year during construction, library services (physical and online) have been relocated at/from the Silliman Gym. (SU OIP)

“From the start, MDW initiated and reached out to us for any support DCNHS needed, and it’s these discussions that made this dream into reality,” said Rabina.

MDW Chief Operating Officer David Berba shared how the handwashing facility of DCNHS is just the beginning.“More schools will be supported, and more programs will be implemented as MDW is one with the government in this goal to bring back the students to schools,” he said.

Jose Miraflor, representing the

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100 J.O.s given Casual posts

Mayor Felipe Antonio Remollo has appointed 100 Job Order workers from different offices to casual plantilla positions in recognition for their continuous service to the City government the past 11 to 20 years.

This is the latest batch of Job Order workers who were appointed to casual plantilla positions with the concurrence of their heads of office effective Feb. 1 that will now entitle them to receive benefits, allowances, and leave credits like regular employees.

The newly-appointed casual employees were presented before the Mayor and Vice-Mayor Ma. Isabel Sagarbarria in brief rites at the SP Session hall.

Among the JO workers who were appointed to casual plantilla positions are garbage collectors, health workers, traffic enforcers, barangay nutrition scholars, public safety officers, utility workers and administrative staff.

In his remarks, the Mayor stressed that the

PSA releases 36K ID cards

The Philippine Statistics Authority in Negros Oriental has so far distributed more than 36,000 ePhilID cards in the province amid public clamor over the nondelivery of the physical national identification cards by the Philippine Postal Corp.

appointment of the JO workers to casual plantilla positions was based on their professionalism in government and good governance in which deserving and qualified workers are hired, promoted or appointed as casual plantilla employees based on their merits and availability of funds.

The Mayor exhorted the newly appointed employees to continue serving the public with sincerity, dedication and integrity to honor the trust entrusted to them.

Of the 100 newlyappointed casual employees, 26 are from the City Economic Enterprises Department, 19 from the City Health Office, 15 from the Environment & Natural Resources Office, 12 from the City Nutrition Office, 10 from the City Mayor’s Office, eight from the Traffic Management Office, six from the City Social Welfare & Development Office, three from the Special Enforcement Unit, and two from the General Services Office.

6

Engr. Ariel Fortuito, chief Sstatistical analyst and PSA provincial head, said they have intensified their efforts to hand out the ePhilID cards so that those registered under the Philippine Identification System can use them sans physical copies.

“The ePhilID is a digital version which has the same functionality and validity as the physical card although it is just in printed form on paper. People can use them while awaiting the release of the physical PhilID version,” Fortuito told the media in an interview Thursday.

Given the millions of PhilID cards that the PHLPost has to deliver across the country, Fortuito said it would take a long time for the registrants to get their individual national ID cards.

To address this dilemma, the PSA here started in December downloading, printing, and distributing the ePhilID cards but Fortuito said they need the assistance of the barangays and public cooperation to maximize the coverage.

As of January this year, 36,082 ePhilID cards were released, representing 92.28 percent of the 39,100 PhilSys registrants whose names were initially

included in the PSA’s list

to be downloaded at the provincial level, he said.

Fortuito said they are just barely scratching the surface as a total of 1,017,903 individuals in Negros Oriental, aged at least 5 years old and up, had already signed up for the Step 2 Registration of PhilSys.

He added that many registrants have already received their physical cards, but he could not say the actual numbers.

He assured that those who are issued ePhilIDs can still receive their physical cards.

The process is tedious, he explained, because the list of “downloadable registrants” for the printing of the ePhilIDs will come from the PSA central office.

Initially, the PSA here required the registered individuals to bring their transaction slips so they can be issued an ePhilID but only a few thousand had responded, Fortuito said.

The PSA has now adopted a “print and delivery strategy” but problems arise sometimes in the location of the owners of these ePhilID cards, he said.

Fortuito is hopeful that the barangays will help them in the location and distribution of the national ID cards.

He is also encouraging PhilSys registered citizens to use the digital version instead, which can be downloaded and saved on their mobile phones and can be used as a legitimate government identification. (PNA)

Metro Dumaguete Water Chief Operating Officer David Berba leads the handwashing demonstration along with Dumaguete City National High School Principal Dr. Alden Rabina and DepEd Division Supervisor Jose Miraflor during the turnover of 10 handwashing stations last Wednesday. (Contributed photo)

EDITORIAL Negros del Norte?

They didn’t see it coming.

Negros Occidental officials were surprised by a proposal from Gov. Roel Degamo to cut Negros Occidental into two provinces before he agrees to the creation of the Negros Island Region.

In a meeting last week with Negros Occidental Gov. Bong Lacson in Dumaguete, Degamo explained that his proposal will “level the playing field” and give Negros Oriental a fairer representation before the Regional Development Council under the proposed NIR.

In Degamo’s thinking, Negros Oriental would always be outvoted by Negros Occidental whenever an issue is up for deliberation in the RDC.

After all, Negros Occidental has seven districts compared to Negros Oriental’s three. Cebu, which is part of Region 7 where Negros Oriental belongs, also has seven districts.

Also, Negros Oriental has only six cities compared to Negros Occidental’s 11.

Actually, what the Negros Oriental Governor is proposing is not a new idea. There was the short-lived Negros del Norte province which was created back in 1986.

Negros del Norte was established under Batas Pambansa Blg. 885 which provided for the creation of the new province comprising the cities of Cadiz (the capital), San Carlos, and Silay, and the municipalities of Calatrava, Enrique B. Magalona (Saravia), Escalante, Manapla, Sagay, Salvador Benedicto, Toboso, and Victorias.

However, Negros del Norte was abolished later the same year after the law establishing it was nullified by the Supreme Court of the Philippines.

To create a province, it has to have an average annual income of not less than P200 million for the last two consecutive years; and either of the following: A population of not less than 250,000 inhabitants, or a contiguous territory of at least 2,000 square kilometers.

Did the former Negros del Norte fit this qualification?

It might deserve some looking into, even as that could mean major political realignments in Negros Occidental.

Inthis day and age, do you still leave your house without bringing your cellphone? Most people probably will say their cellphone is as important as their wallet. They cannot leave home without it.

In little more than a decade, the impact of social media has metamorphosed from being a mere diversion or an antidote for boredom, to an instrument for almost all that is fully integrated in nearly every aspect of daily life.

The pervasive use of social media by Filipinos especially has greatly affected their manner of interaction and communication.

Many live in the “always available” mode in a networked culture, not an informationbased society, as shown in a study released by Universal McCann titled Power to the People – Wave3.

The same study described the Philippines as the “social networking capital of the world” with 83 percent of Filipinos surveyed being active users of a social network.

The Filipinos were also found to be the

top photo uploaders and web video viewers, and second in rank in terms of the number of blog readers and video uploaders.

The popularity of social networking can be traced back to the Filipino culture of “friends helping friends”.

For Filipinos, their friends’ list on social media, and who they “know” can become more valuable than money,

the instant messaging app Messenger; checking out what photos or videos your friends just uploaded on Instagram; watching random users’ 15-second videos on Tiktok that feature dance steps or cooking techniques or personal advocacies; or keeping abreast on Twitter through microbloggers’ 280-character opinions or ‘tweets’ about trends or new knowledge and

Social media

especially when what they need can be achieved from ‘friendships’ through nepotism and favoritism; plus recently, the ‘Marites’ phenomenon.

The most-used social media platform in the Philippines in 2022 were: Facebook, Facebook Messenger, Instagram (the first three by Meta Platforms); TikTok (a Chinese mobile app), and Twitter (by Elon Musk), in that order.

Think about monitoring the online social networking service Facebook for breaking news; connecting with family, friends, and colleagues on

ATTY. JOSE RIODIL D. MONTEBON

information. (Think brevity!)

Warnings, however, have been out that while social media connectivity offers a myriad of opportunities, it also opens up a field day for negative potential issues. The platform itself is not a problem. It is the way people use it in place of actual communication, and in-person socializing.

One’s accepted ‘friends’ on social media may not necessarily be your genuine friends; some are acquaintances you may have seen in high school sports competitions,

THE EMPEROR’S NO CLOTHES

joseriodil@yahoo.com

LastWednesday, Silliman University lost one of its great icons. Angel C. Acala was a man of many achievements. He was a world renowned scientist, having earned a Fulbright scholarship, and eventually his Ph. D. in Biology from Stanford University.

After initially delving into research in Philippine herpetology and reptology, he eventually settled on protecting the seas and its corals as a marine biologist.

For his advocacy in marine protection, he received the Ramon Magsaysay Award for marine conservation. He was also a Pew Fellow in Marine Conservation.

At the peak of his career, he was conferred the honor of National Scientist of the Philippines.

Dr. Alcala is also recognized for his many books and publications as an international scholar. His achievements transcended his incursions in science. As a man of outstanding achievement, Dr. Alcala was appointed as the ninth president of Silliman

University. He was likewise conferred the Outstanding Sillimanian Awardee by his alma mater. When he left us, he was vice chair of the Silliman Board of Trustees, and a member of the SU Medical Center Foundation Inc. Board.

Dr. Alcala leaves behind a legacy of having established the SU Institute of Environmental & Marine Sciences.

In government, he served

son, Moses, who was studying for his degree in geology. We were sharing a boarding house with Moses in the Katipunan area near UP.

One day, he came to visit, and patiently waited for Moses to come down. When he learned that Moses shared the boarding house with fellow Sillimanians, he invited us to join him and Moses to dinner.

We went to a nondescript

A great man

as Secretary for Environment & Natural Resources. He was also chairman of the Commission on Higher Education. It is so hard to outdo a man of great achievement. And yet, his greatness stems not from all his awards and accolades. It comes from his simply being a humble man in all his humanity.

At the very core of Angel C. Alcala, he was, first of all, a devoted husband to his wife of 70 years, Naomi. He was also a caring and loving father.

I observed this up close and personal when he came to Manila that time to visit his

others may be strangers -like the uncle of your second grade classmate back in your hometown.

Social media can be addicting, especially once you see all the notifications for the ‘likes’ and positive comments on your posts popping up in your screen; you subconsciously register it as a “reward”.

But that’s not all; social media is full of moodmodifying experiences as well, affecting one’s mental health and sense of reality. It can be associated with body image concerns . The “selfie-holics” and people who spend most of their time posting, uploading, and scrolling endlessly are the ones most vulnerable to this.

In fact, most persons who actively use Facebook at least five times a day are likely to link their self-worth to their physical appearance.

Sadly, there is an ugly side to all that technology offers as it has brought bullying and the spread of fake news to a new level.

A recent Pulse Asia survey revealed that about nine in 10 Filipino adults, or 86 percent, blame the proliferation of misinformation and disinformation or false information (commonly referred to as fake news) on to the widespread use of social media where content is not immediately verifiable. So be alert and be aware!

Utzurrum. Particularly when he was still a young student at Silliman, he often sought comfort with the Utzurrums as his family away from home.

I also had a personal relationship with Dr. Alcala, who addressed me as ‘Do’. Whenever Marietta and I would pay him and Mrs.Alcala a visit at their home in Silliman Park, in his most relaxed self in shorts and white T-shirt, he would recline in his chair, and entertain us. We would engage in a variety of topics, usually about Silliman Church, SUMC, or keeping up with Moses & Mylene. I thoroughly enjoyed those visits.

eatery nearby, he was a very regular person enjoying the fellowship of Sillimanians from a younger generation. He had no airs about him as president of Silliman University that time.

That dinner with Dr.Alcala left a lasting impression on me. Here was a good and simple simple man, shorn of his titles and awards!

On another personal note, Dr. Alcala often visited the Utzurrum home in Bolocboloc, Sibulan. Coming from Cauayan, he lived promixate to Ilog, Negros Occidental, the hometown of Mrs.Concepcion

These vignettes revealed to me the man that Dr Alcala was. He wasn’t about titles or honorific awards and positions. He was simply about being an ordinary man who enjoyed the simple life, and who cared deeply about serving his fellow man.

That is where his true greatness lay! I will miss this good and faithful servant.

“The one who had received the five talents came up and brought five more talents, saying, ‘Master, you entrusted five talents to me. See, I have gained five more talents.’ His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You were faithful with a few things, I will put you in charge of many things; enter into the joy of your master.’”

(Matthew 25:200).

PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT

Iplannedto replace my laptop. It is losing memory and getting slower when I save and process research data. Technically, it is already old, and with all information uploaded on it, its processor is outdated and needs updating or replacement.

As a researcher, I need a fast laptop to receive and respond to what I want to do. It is so irritating when deadlines are fast approaching.

Now, at 62 years old, I imagine myself like a laptop already loaded with volumes of information and memories of years of physical and

and emphatic.

The popular saying “it’s hard to teach an old dog with new tricks” may refer to anyone stubborn to learn new skills. But this assertion still applies to some older people who are tired to go through the process of re-learning unless they considered it necessary. Oftentimes, these are older people who accepted themselves as already useless and preferred to be socially isolated.

The Dr. Mariano Lao Innovation, Creation, & Invention Laboratory of Silliman University breaks

lessons for their children to learn from or to boost selfesteem when they feel they are no longer given attention.

The narrative would start with “during our time” or “when we were yet in high school” and then followed with how things should be done based on what were the practices in the past.

There are lessons from their stories but the recollection does not only happen once which bored or irritated those listening. The same story goes on and on when older people are triggered by an event or a problem.

Aging parents couldn’t just be replaced

mental work. I have both happy and sad memories in my personal, familial, and professional life. But with the diverse memories stored in my head, I have already difficulty remembering some of them. Perhaps, what I had retained are only those most memorable that popped up when triggered by some significant cues.

Unless due to medical conditions and emotional problems, experts explained that forgetfulness is a normal part of aging. It is a consequence of body changes, particularly the brain that makes it difficult for older persons to learn new skills and retain large information. There is a disconnect between what they think and what they want to do. “I am already old” is a common justification for being forgetful so one become patient with them as gestures of being considerate

that perception of learning difficulty due to old age.

Although it is difficult to teach computing skills among aging people compared to the young, the ICIL offers free computer education for older people which draws many participants.

According to Dr. Dave Marcial who heads ICIL, older people also enjoy the company of their cohort. They stayed and patiently learned until they completed the training for several weekends.

Meanwhile, in the opposite end of memory loss is memory recall, or the tendency of older people to tell stories of growing up, high school adventures, college life, building a family, work and traveling, and so on. The stories most likely are about their achievements or their ability to overcome life difficulties. The narrative is either aimed to draw life

MOSES JOSHUA ATEGA

Oftentimes, tension would erupt when the young contest and the old insist on certain points of the narratives.

The extreme manifestations of the combination of the behaviors closely resemble the Hiligaynon word ulianon The root word uli means return or going back while the suffix anon may mean a tendency.

Thus, this word describes an older person who returns to childhood, or aptly, second childhood—but not everyone would experience this. The descriptions of ulianon closely resemble dementia which medical experts considered not a part of normal aging. The worst could be Alzheimer’s disease.

Should children get irritated with the forgetfulness and redundancy of their aging parents? They must not be and instead they have to be aware

TO PAGE 6

THE BELL TOLLS HERE,THERE

karlmike@yahoo.com

LUJANA CIARRA ROMERO-HERRENAUW

LujanaHerrenauw7@gmail.com

Thereare two things in this world that we will never figure out even until we enter it. Parenthood and Marriage.

But Im gonna focus on Parenthood today. I wanted to isolate motherhood but then I don’t want to discount my beloved husband’s sweet efforts, too. If anything, we actually won, and survived it together.

So when I was new to motherhood, I was frantic 90 percent of the time. I remember waking up randomly in the wee hours of night, panicking whether my little one was still breathing. I would shake her up to the point of sometimes

easier to be just the latter. But I was proven wrong when I became a mother.

There were days I’d die to switch places with Jadon, just to simply get out of the mundane. But just the thought of it kills me inside. And so I would end up lying beside the kids, and marvel how much I love them.

The course was grueling at times, but I always remembered my purpose as a mom. I was well aware of the privilege, and honor of becoming one. I took to heart the struggle of other women who long for such a blessing.

So each time I try to murmur some complaint, I

Stopped surfing for awhile, I stopped exercising, stopped training and so forth -- habits that were basically part of my daily routine, part of my whole being.Yet now, I would never have it any other way.

The good news is that compromise isn’t forever. It’s only temporary to make way and make sure that your little one’s needs are met first and foremost. After all, they didn’t ask for parents; we asked for these sweet children.

Also, especially because the first seven years are the crucial years of molding them, until they understand accountability.

In the process of giving

Parenthood is a superpower

waking her, and with a little whine, I sigh in relief.

Then Jadon would be a little annoyed how I have not only disrupted the baby’s sleep, but his, too. And I have to say that still happens until now that Chebby is eight, and Raxu is five.

I think when one becomes a mother, worrying never stops. It naturally becomes part of your superpowers. And it’s okay because then that’ll mean we care, and want them safe.

Oh, how I struggled being a young hands-on mom, considering I grew up comfortably with a yaya.

If anything, I never pictured myself being a young hands-on mom (let alone without a yaya), considering that my very own mother graced life as a career woman with all the help she can get.

I always thought it was

try to stop, and remember how truly blessed I am.

And motherhood will always be unpredictable, and that’s the exciting part, but also the most dreaded part, too.

One day they’re completely fine, then next thing you know, you’ll be surprised where they got their bruises, or why they suddenly have fever. Then you realize it’s all part of growing up.

Motherhood takes a lot of sacrifices. Compromise becomes our middle name. Because we understand that it’s not about us anymore.

It’s about our baby, and the happy and better life we aim to give them, making sure they don’t ever go through emotional trauma.

In the last eight years, I remember giving up so many things. I stopped dancing.

GEMMA MINDA ISO

PATHWAYS

legis616821@gmail.com

up the usual, I learned to be patient, I learned to cook, and became my children’s bestfriend and refuge.

I never wanted them to be emotionally apart from me just so I can pursue what I want first. They are only young once. Even after this life, there’s no going back anymore.

And coming from the former’s experience, I know very well how much attention I needed as a child back then.

Not that my mom didn’t want to give it but uncalled circumstances happened, and she sadly can’t be both.

As childre, we never realized that. Up till we become mothers ourselves, and we feel the guilt of leaving every time, because it’s exactly the same thing we longed for when we were children.

TO PAGE 8

Touring

guests at the Sillimaniana section of the Robert B. & Metta J. Silliman Library will always have one great moment of pride and joy when we would stand in front of the portrait of Dr. Angel Chua Alcala, Silliman’s Man of Excellence.

With pride, I would always introduce this Silliman University President as the “world’s father in coastal resources management.”

And the guests would usually respond: “Among all the Presidents, he is the one who is most familiar to us.”

Guests would remember Dr. Alcala’s years as the Environment Secretary of the country, his being a Magsaysay awardee, and his fruitful years as the pioneering

In Davao Oriental, the DENR officers brought him to a seaside for lunch. A showcase of their warm hospitality included catching a pawikan (sea turtle), and Sir ACA was told that they butchered one so he could have a taste of its delicious meat.

He was not delighted at all. He instructed the fishermen to release the pawikan back to freedom. And when he saw the pawikan dish on the table, he was suddenly in tears, and told everyone that it was cruelty! He expressed his disgust by reminding them in the local dialect, “...muhilak baya ang pawikan...wala mo

Moments with this man of excellence

commissioner of the country’s Higher Education agency.

Being a Sillimanian, I have my own great moments working with this Silliman hero. I was still based in Davao City when I received a call from Sir ACA – how people would call him in campus. He requested me to help arrange his itinerary for his surprise visit to the DENR offices around the three provinces of Davao.

The humble man wanted to arrive with no grand welcoming from politicians and government offices. His first event at every destination on this Davao tour was to attend a fellowship of Sillimanians. Government officials who wanted to see him were asked to join as guests in the Silliman alumni events.

naluoy? (Turtles do cry! Didn’t you have pity on the turtle?!)

On stage for the Outstanding Negrense awards, Dr. Alcala was thankful for the honor as Negros Oriental’s Environment Hero but the citation was on a customized plaque with engravings on a stone tablet made of real blue coral. He refused to accept the plaque as the use of dead corals as material for the beautifully- presented honor was totally unacceptable.

Dr. Alcala’s heart for the environment went beyond his world as a research scientist, he lived with it everyday -- it was a way of life for him.

One Christmas season, the members of the environmentalists group in the Province were worried at the possible impact of

the use of huge nails on the barks of the trees along Rizal Boulevard. The nails were hurting the trees as they were being used to keep the decorative lights from falling. They requested Dr. Alcala for help as they wanted a tree doctor from UPLB to come to Dumaguete.

Dr. Alcala, who was chairperson of the Justice and Peace Committee of Silliman Church, mobilized the members of his team to organize a forum with the tree doctor, which was held at the sanctuary of Silliman Church. Saving the trees from wherever they were planted was always given a priority by Sir ACA. He also led Sillimanians in the planting of 100 endemic trees in 2001 to

Thereis this famous YouTube influencer who’s been taking the net (especially YouTube fans) by storm because of his latest episode that has helped a lot of people.

His channel is titled “MrBeast” and his real name is Jimmy Donaldson. He’s quite young, only 24 years old but already raking in millions, that is, both followers and money.

This particular episode has MrBeast paying for a 10-minute surgical procedure for 1,000 blind people. The episode showed the blind individuals telling the world

questions though -- Why can’t people see the goodness that other people do? How come there is always an ulterior motive that seems to lurk behind every good deed? Why can’t we take a good deed at face value?

Since viewers were so agog in pouring cold water on his very warm act of kindness, I went to see his other episodes and did a brief research on the guy and these are what I found out:

In 2018, MrBeast contributed $1 million towards charitable causes, which earned him

with former NASA engineer Mark Rober in October 2019. The objective was to raise $20 million for Arbor Day Foundation, an American nonprofit organization committed to planting trees around the country. The campaign received $18 million from tech honchos like Elon Musk and Jack Dorsey, and other YouTube stars like PewDiePie. Pure goodness, no pretense Based on these past initiatives, I think it’s obvious that the guy is not just doing things for the ratings or to collect millions of followers. The guy has a “good side”

Kindness without ulterior motive

how happy they are because they can finally see after being in the dark (literally) for several years. Mixed reactions

That specific episode earned diverse responses from netizens. Some say that the “compassion” MrBeast exhibited was not real, that he was doing it for the ratings. Others say that if he really wants to do good, he doesn’t need to show it on the internet or film the good thing that was done to those blind people.

Others praised and commended the YouTube influencer for doing a very compassionate deed.

But many are really questioning his motives and his real intentions. In fact, some were questioning where or how he got the money for all the ‘stunts’ he does on this YT channel.

My question I have a different set of

the title of YouTube’s biggest philanthropist. He also runs a virtual eatery named MrBeast Burger. The online application allows his fans to order MrBeast-themed meals from around 1,600 restaurants from across the country. He manages the marketing of the app and later splits the profit with the restaurant. As of January 2022, the app had sold around 5 million sandwiches.

He also runs a philanthropy channel, Beast Philanthropy , which aims to mitigate hunger and end food insecurity by giving aid to underserved communities in eastern North Carolina and other parts of the US. It is based on the concept of a transportable food distribution network, that runs a food pantry, and carries food to people who are in dire need of it.

MrBeast likewise launched a fundraising challenge dubbed #TeamTrees, together

in him, he’s not just taking himself seriously, thus, the good works are manifested thru fun activities. Not to mention the fact that he’s on YouTube, so what better way to attract people to his advocacies than to show it online?

That video obtained more than 70 million views and has unquestionably elevated the profile of the medical procedure he paid for. More than that, it has brought people’s attention to the existence of that specific surgical procedure that many people don’t know about. Compassion or simply for the ratings?

In today’s quest for likes, views, and shares, “do-good” acts used as social media content are always questioned and not seen at face value. For most, there is always an ulterior motive behind the act. Good examples are

Ilovedto sing when I was young, and sang in the soprano section of the Covenant Choir of the Silliman University Church in the ‘80s. As a student nurse, I sang to my babies in the nursery, and when I graduated, I sang to my patients in Medical Ward, songs like Usahay and Inday, Pamutos na! Singing has been a part of my life early on and until now.

Here are 10 benefits of singing: 1) Relieves stress.

2) Stimulates the immune response. In a study (2004), the effects of singing was compared with the effects of simply listening to music. In two separate sessions, research subjects either sang or listened to music. Results revealed that those who sang showed higher levels of immunoglobulin A, an antibody secreted by the body to help fend off infections. Listening to music (without singing along) reduced stress hormones but did not stimulate the body’s immune system.

people who don’t sing. The researchers found that significantly fewer choir members snored. This led them to recommend regular singing as a potential treatment for snoring.

(5)Improves lung function. Because singing involves deep breathing and the controlled use of muscles in the res piratory system, it may be beneficial for certain lung and breathing conditions.

to remember something.” Researchers found that singing songs learned at a younger age caused a spontaneous return of autobiographical details for many people.

8) Helps with grief. In a 2019 study conducted among people dealing with grief, researchers found that for those who sang in a choir, depression symptoms did not get worse over time and their sense of wellbeing remained stable.

Aninternational telecommunications company named Telenor Asia surveyed virtual engagement among people in South East Asia. Last Jan. 31, the company published the results which said that in the Philippines, socializing online has taken off and that 77 percent of the population has become more engaging online than in real life.

brownouts. I’ve seen people get restless and confused about what to do whenever the internet connection is lost.

immediately take photos of the food and tell the world that “this is what I am eating right now.”

Remember to sing

3) Increases pain threshold. When you sing in a group, whether it’s a large choir or a smaller group, the act of collective singing causes your body to release endorphin hormone which can help promote positive feelings, and even change your perception of pain.

4)May improve from snoring. In a 2008 study, researchers interviewed the spouses of choir members, along with the spouses of

6) Develops a sense of belonging and connection. When you sing together with others, you’re likely to feel the same kind of camaraderie and bonding that players on sports teams experience. In one 2014 study involving 11,258 schoolchildren, researchers found that children in a singing and musical engagement program developed a strong sense of community and social inclusion. One of the neurochemicals released when people feel bonded together is oxytocin, also known as the love hormone.

7) Enhances memory in people with dementia. People with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia experience a gradual loss of memory. Studies have shown that people with these conditions were able to recall song lyrics more easily than other words. In one singing study, done by by the Alzheimer’s Foundation, participants said it was “nice to be able

Republic of the Philippines Regional Trial Court 7th Judicial Region Dumaguete City Office of The Clerk of Court & Ex-Officio Sheriff BDO Unibank, Inc., Mortgagee EJFREM No. 2022-3595 -versus-

Recy S. Balderian, Mortgagor

x----------------------------------------/

NOTICE OF EXTRAJUDICIAL SALE

Upon Extrajudicial petition for sale under Act No. 3135 filed by BDO Unibank, Inc. against Recy S. Balderian to satisfy the indebtedness which as of August 15, 2022 amounts to P6,571,141.55 inclusive of attorney’s fees and other necessary expenses of foreclosure, the undersigned or her duly authorized deputy will sell at public auction on February 22, 2023 at 9:00 o’clock in the morning to 4:00 o’clock in the afternoon at the Office of the Clerk of Court, ground floor, Hall of Justice Building, Piapi, Dumaguete City to the highest bidder, for cash or manager’s check and in Philippine Currency, the following property, to wit;

TRANSFER CERTIFICATE OF TITLE NO. 109-2020001579

A parcel of land (Lot 3, Block 6, of the Consolidation-Subdivision Plan Pcs- 07-006065, being a portion of the consolidation of Lots 5869 and 4756 both of Dumaguete Cadastre (Cad 96) and 6104-B, Psd-07081233, LRC Record No. 142) situated in Barrio of Candau-ay, City of Dumaguete, Island of Negros.

Bounded on the SE along Line 1-2 by Lot 4, Block 6, on the SW along Line 2-3 by Lot 5, Block 6; along Line 3-4 by Lot 6, Block 6; on the NW along Line 4- 5 by Lot 2, Block 6; and on the NE along Line 5-1 by Road Lot 2 (8 M. Wide), all of the Subdivision Plan. Beginning at a point marked “1” on plan, being S. 70 deg. 39’ E., 388.71 M. from MBM No. 7, Dumaguete Cadastre (Cad 96); thence S. 71 Deg. 27’ W., 11.00 M. to point 2; thence N. 18 Deg. 37’ W., 1.00 M. to point

to point 5; thence S. 18 Deg. 33’

11.00

to point of beginning; containing an area of One Hundred Twenty One (121) Square Meter, more or less. All point referred to are indicated on the plan and marked on the ground as follows: points 1,2,3,4,5 by PS.Cyl. Conc. Mon(s). 15X40 cm.; Bearings true; Date of original survey, January-August 1916 and that of the subdivision survey executed by Rilt Renart G. Dorado, Geodetic Engineer, on September 17, 2011 approved on April 10, 2012.

All sealed bids must be submitted to the undersigned on the above stated time and date.

In the event the public auction should not take place on the said date, it shall be held on March 3, 2023 without further notice.

Dumaguete City, Philippines, November 29, 2022.

ATTY. MARIA ANTONIA L. BULADO Clerk of Court VI & Ex-Officio Sheriff

By: ROMULO M. DINEROS, JR. Sheriff IV & Executing Sheriff

9) Improves mental health and mood. A study done in the United Kingdom in 2018 evaluated 20 people in a singing program known as The Sing Your Heart Out project. The participants included people with mental health conditions, as well as the general public. Results revealed that the participants reported improvements in their mental health, mood, sense of well-being, and feeling of belonging as a result of these singing workshops.

10)Helps improve speaking abilities. Scientists began researching the effects of singing among people who have a hard time with speech due to a neurological condition, many years ago. As of now, Researchers have found that singing improves the speaking ability for people with autism, Parkinson’s disease aphasia following a stroke and stuttering. “... but be filled with the Spirit: speaking to one another in psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs, singing and making music to the Lord in your heart.” Ephesians 5: 18-19

Jørgen C. Arentz Rostrup, head of Telenor Asia, pointed out that some of the habits formed in the over two years of the COVID-19 crisis “are becoming hard-wired in the

Or at times when the cell phone is accidentally left at home, most people become fidgety and agitated. Many office workers, would rather forget their lunch boxes or anything else, just not their cell phones. Many of us feel “naked” when we do not have our cell phones with us when we go outside of our homes.

I am not sure why, we always have that ‘craving’ to scroll down on Facebook

Thus, when electricity is out and there is no internet connection, we are “totally lost.” Avatars and updates Obviously, the continuing psychological impact of social media on us and our sense of “self” remains to be seen. But there is one thing I do know. Our daily lives have been digitized, tracked, and tied up in metrics. Our real selves have split into online avatars and profile pictures

Are we real people in a virtual world?

way we live our lives today.”

I’m not sure if I should be happy about this or not. While social media has helped a lot in the way we connect with people and the rest of the world, the fact that we can connect more virtually than in real life is I think a sad reality.

Unplugged and disconnected

In Kenneth Gergen’s 1991 book, The Saturated Self, he warned of an Orwellian world where technology might saturate human beings to the point of “multiphrenia,” a fragmented version of the self that is pulled in so many directions the individual would be lost.

I have personally observed this “fragmented version” of the self, especially during

x-----------------------------------------/ ORDER

A verified Petition was filed with this Court by petitioner through counsel Atty. Pascual E. Vismanos, Jr., praying that after due notice and hearing, an Order be immediately issued:

“1. Declaring as null and void the lost original owner’s duplicate copy of Original Certificate of title No. O-V-7210 issued by the Register of Deeds of the Province of Negros Oriental; and

2. Directing the Register of Deeds of the Province of Negros Oriental to issue a new owner’s duplicate copy of Original Certificate of Title No. O-V-7210 to Petitioners with the same terms and conditions as the original thereof, in lieu of the lost owner’s duplicate copy of Original Certificate of Title No. O-V-7210 and declare that the new owner’s duplicate copy of Subject Property as issued shall in all respects, be entitled to full faith and credit in accordance with Presidential Decree No. 1529 otherwise known as Property Registration Decree.”

The petition shall be heard on March 1, 2023 at 8:30 o’clock in the morning at the Session Hall of this Court, at which place, date and time, any interested person may appear and show cause, if any, why the prayer in the Petition should not be granted.

At petitioner’s expense, let this Order be published once a week for three (3) consecutive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation in this province and its component cities.

Likewise, let this Order be posted by the Branch Sheriff at the Bulletin Board of this Court, the Office of the Clerk of Court, the Provincial Capitol of Negros Oriental, the Municipal Hall of Bacong, and the Barangay Halls of Barangay Doldol and Barangay San Miguel, Bacong, Negros Oriental where the parcel of land is situated.

Should there be a need, petitioner through counsel is directed to promptly move for the issuance of subpoena, with the names, addresses and contact information of any intended witness. Unless circumstances warrant otherwise, the testimonies of all the witnesses shall be taken in one setting.

SO ORDERED. This 2nd day of November 2022 at Dumaguete City, Philippines.

GLENDA J. YEE-UYMATIAO

Presiding Judge

or Instagram, or Twitter.

I cannot understand why many of us have that “urgent need” to always know what’s going on around us or what everyone is doing in their lives or where people are spending their vacations or where they are eating and what they are eating inside restaurants.

On the other side of the spectrum, I also cannot understand why many people would tell the rest of the world (thru a post) that the sun is shining or it’s a cloudy day when almost everyone knows that the sun is shining or that it’s raining.

Another thing that I find funny is that when people eat out, either with friends or family when the food is served, many of us would

DSWD....FROM P. 3

social services in poor municipalities in the country.

Lucero, in her message, emphasized that these projects are supplemental to other DSWD programs such as the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program where partner-beneficiaries can benefit from the improved health stations in the monitoring of their health as well as improved accessibility for students going back and forth to their schools.

and status updates.

And while social media sites like Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn are powerful tools that have the potential to build communities, connect relatives in far-flung places, and leverage careers, they are also unleashing a myriad of complex psychological issues that have altered our collective sense of reality. Our “virtual lives” are glossy and cheerful. It’s where we post our most handsome photos and tell all our best news. On social networking sites such as Facebook, we think we will be presenting ourselves, but our profile ends up as somebody else—often the fantasy of who we want to be. But is it real? More importantly, is it healthy?

She also called for strengthened operations and maintenance of these completed projects so they will become sustainable and continue the vision of this town towards development free of poverty.

The total investment of KaLahi-CIDSS worth P15.9 million in Manjuyod brings people together and empowers them through active participation in different community activities. (JCT/PIA7 NegOr, with reports from DSWD7)

PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT....FROM P. 5

of what “second childhood” would be like while yet going to that worse stage of older adult life. Children should be empathic now to avoid any unpleasant experiences when their time comes.

Being patient, supporting, comforting, reassuring, nonarguing, and facilitating are some qualities children need

to demonstrate while their aging parents still recognize or remember them.

Aging parents once demonstrated these qualities while they earnestly raised their children. Like old laptops, aging parents made what their children have become now, but they could not just be replaced.

MetroPost 2023 Jan. 29 • Feb. 5 • Feb. 12

MetroPost 2023 Jan. 22 • Jan. 29 • Feb. 5

EULOGIES

Remembering Angel Chua Alcala

In my second year in undergrad, I made an appointment with Dr. Alcala as I was contemplating a career in marine biology. He informed me that to be successful in this field, I needed to get a SCUBA diving license, and pursue graduate studies (master’s and Ph.D.). Dr. Alcala eventually became my external adviser for my masters’ thesis, and opened the opportunity for Ph.D. studies for me when he hired me to be part of the Giant Clam project of the then-SU Marine Laboratory.

My earliest field memories with ACA was during the 1979 Smithsonian Expedition. At 5 o’clock every morning, he would go around our quarters banging a wok with a stone to wake up those who were still sleeping. He would not stop the “alarm clock” until all of us were awake, and ready for another day of diving. Lesson learned: When in the field with ACA, early to bed, early to rise. He starts his day earlier than most of us.

I also remember one day, I was struggling to close the accordion door at SUML. ACA saw me struggling, and helped me figure out how to close the stubborn door. Then he smiled, and teasingly told me, “That is why I have a PhD!” That comment made me determined to go get a PhD.

So now when our graduate students are caught in similar situations, I prod them to finish their degree by telling them how Dr. Alcala actually inspired me.

ACA and I had our mentor-student spats. He used to argue with me by commenting about the “unaesthetic seagrass beds versus the scenic coral reefs” -- which he knew would provoke to me to defend my interest in seagrass. In one argument, he started to walk out on me, not giving me the opportunity to explain about the beauty and significance of seagrass beds. In my frustration, I just stuck my tongue out to him, but to my horror, he looked back at me, and caught me in the act! Then he just continued walking away, laughing hilariously. Another lesson learned: ACA always liked to argue, but in the end, he respects those who can hold his/her ground.

I also remember in his talks in campus, he would refer to my colleagues Nida Calumpong, Louella Dolar, and myself as his ‘Golden Girls’. Rest assured ACA, we will continue your legacy, and the lessons you taught us. You will be missed, and remembered always. -- Dr. Janet Estacion, director, SU Institute of Environmental & Marine Sciences (formerly the SU Marine Lab)

A python whisperer. At about 8:30pm on Halloween night a few years back, an eight-foot python had found its way into our bedroom. Pulling back a box, there it lay, coiled like a large wedding cake on the floor. What is one to do but call a neighbor! A few houses down from us was Dr. Alcala, reputed to be a Python Whisperer. Unfortunately, at 89 years old that time, he could not run right over, but only gave the instruction: “Please do not kill it, I will be there in the morning.”

We did not think Dr. Alcala understood the gravity of our situation: having to sleep with a massive python right in our bedroom. We thought that waiting for the morning was not an option. Fortunately, with the help of other Silliman friends, we were led to a young man, Red Utzurrum, who could make his way to our house, and through the barangay tanods who had now assembled outside with sticks and bolos. Red skillfully captured the massive snake unharmed, and put it into an empty rice sack, and sealed with a knot.

Not wanting to offend our beloved neighbor and National Scientist Dr. Alcala, we kept the tied sack with the python inside in another room for the night.

Then sure enough, early the next morning, Dr. Alcala was outside our house wanting to capture the snake. We found it hard to break the news that it was already captured, but that we still didn’t know what to do with it. “Let me see it,” Dr. Alcala said.

I begged him not to open the sack inside our house, in case we encounter an angry snake accidentally escaping. Again, Dr. Alcala looked a bit disappointed. He then said, “Let’s take it for release!”

We were pleased with his suggestion, and hurriedly put the heavy sack in the trunk of the car, thinking we were headed for the mountains. But Dr. Alcala said, “Let’s go to the Marine Lab.”

As we entered the gate, he told the guards we have a big snake for the new environmental garden walk being constructed through the mangroves. (In his mind, he already had the vision of visitors strolling through the garden, and marvelling at a large python in the wild. He really had a different fear level than us mortals.)

As we made our way into the mangrove area, I could sense Dr. Alcala’s excitement -- with my growing fear. He could not even wait to open the sack, and engage with the huge snake. He looked inside. “It is beautiful!,” Dr. Alcala said. Then he asked me to gently dump the snake out of the sack. It was a nightmare request. (But this was the National Scientist before me, I thought.) The snake tumbled out of the sack onto the ground, and did not move a bit.

Then it was Dr. Alcala’s moment: giving the python a second life.

He approached closest to it, and gave it a nudge. “Go! Go,” Dr. Alcala told the python. “You are free now!”

This time, our beloved Dr. Angel C. Alcala has been set free. He has now gone on to his second and eternal home. He leaves us with so many memories and lessons about loving and caring for all of God’s Creation, the animals, the ocean, and about giving of ourselves so that others may live and have life without harm.

I consider Dr. Angel C. Alcala as my academic father and mentor. Dr. ACA was the one who opened the door of marine mammal research for me. I am forever grateful for everything he taught me, in terms of scientific training, work ethic, academic discipline, and dedication to something that one is passionate about, and believes in.

His drive, amazing accomplishments, and tremendous contribution to science, especially in herpetology and marine biology, have inspired many. From Dr. Alcala’s example, I learned the importance of conservation, and speaking up for Nature and wildlife that have no voice to defend themselves.

I remember in one of our field trips to Lake Balinsasayao, he got so distraught when he saw that some gigantic trees had been felled, and replaced by banana plants in the middle of the forest. He immediately pulled out the banana trunks, and hurled them away. We followed suit, and pulled out the rest. He then explained to us how important forests are as a watershed and habitat for wildlife. He was not afraid to take action when defending Nature, whether terrestrial or marine.

Dr. ACA, as we fondly called him, had a soft side, and was fatherly sometimes. In our field biology classes, when we would still be chatting and giggling until late at night, he would walk around, and tell us softly, “Dong/ Day, tulog na mo kay sayo ta mangmata ugma!” He would also sometimes have Mrs. Alcala come along, who always brought us goodies and treats, which we very much appreciated.

Back in 2016, I had the chance to witness an interview with Dr. Angel C. Alcala by Francisco “Paco” Guerrero at the whale museum. In his nature, Dr. Alcala was candid in the way he was answering the questions fielded to him, very eloquent and knowledgeable. As a bystander in that interview, it was a crash course for me in Environmental Science. I will always be grateful to Dr. Alcala for that moment. A serendipitous day it was. -- Yvette Malahay-Kim, visual artist

Although tough regarding deadlines and quality of work, Dr. ACA never failed to tell the student if he/did did a good job. I remember him telling us: “Give me a chance to be proud of you.”

Despite the academic and professional accomplishments he had achieved, and the stature in society he had reached, Dr. ACA remained true to himself and his cause.

And now Nature has lost one of its champions. Dr. ACA, thank you for the legacy you left us; it will live on in the students whose lives you touched. -- Dr. Louella Dolar-Perrin, Tropical Marine Research & Conservation, San Diego, California

By example, Dr. Angel C. Alcala taught us the meaning of reason, loyalty, faithfulness, industry, obedience, courage, and humility. Thank you, Dr. Alcala. May the Lord God reward you as His faithful servant on earth. -- Celia E.

Acedo, communication specialist/editor

My heart is with the Alcala family this time. Dr. Angel C. Alcala, my mentor and colleague, passed away yesterday at 93. ACA, as we all knew him, was a ferocious champion of Philippine coral reef conservation, and one of the founding fathers of Philippine Marine Science. He gave me my first job as a marine biologist (tracking growth in baby sea turtles) when I was a freshman Biology major. He was my father’s friend and dive buddy, and opened his world to the magic of coral reefs. He founded the Silliman University Marine Lab, and pushed his students and faculty to publish. He was difficult, demanding, and exacting, and ACA taught me that nothing less than the best you can do is acceptable. One story stands out in my mind because it reminds me of how single-minded and focused ACA was about his science: The summer Monett and I got married, I was working as a research assistant for ACA while I was planning my wedding. The Alcalas were, of course, invited, and I seem to remember he was one of our sponsors. Right after the wedding, I was later told that he came into the lab, and demanded to know where I was—he needed my data! Everyone started laughing, and someone finally said, “Sir, she’s on her honeymoon!” And ACA had the grace to look a bit sheepish.

He will be missed, and I wish him fair winds, and a calm sea. -- Dr. Laurie Raymundo, director, University of Guam Marine Laboratory

I worked as executive assistant at the DENR Office of the Secretary way back from the time of Sec. Fulgencio Factoran, and then Sec. Angel C. Alcala. What I remember about Secretary Alcala is that he was serious with the job he was mandated to do as DENR Secretary. The first thing he wanted to achieve was to make each and every DENR employee honest and committed to his/her duties and responsibilies. He wanted to stop corruption in the agency. He even forbid our clients from bringing Christmas gifts. As a good Christian, Secretary Alcala truly practiced what he was preaching. As a marine scientist, he selflessly shared his expertise, and encouraged his management team to experience Nature and field work, that even our Undersecretaries and heads of the different sectors became SCUBA divers. During Secretary Alcala’s term, the marine environment was given more emphasis, and several projects on coastal resources management were undertaken to preserve the marine flora and fauna. Dr. Alcala was a very simple, humble, and dedicated government servant. -- Emy Aguinaldo, senior vice president, Basic Environmental Systems & Technologies Inc.

A scholar and an outstanding practitioner of science. A teacher who was ready to share what “modest things” he knows (his words) in service of people and planet.

A person of faith who saw the beauty and lushness of the world as God’s grace for humankind, which must be kept and sustained as an act of worship.

He was not easy to give up on what he sees is truth. In Vladivostok, his first international presentation on the link of coral reef health and fisheries abundance was questioned and assailed. But he has been since proved right. Today, his pioneering work on reef protection is among the recognized pillars of coastal marine conservation.

A friend to many. A mentor. An inspiration. -- Dr. Ben S. Malayang III, former Silliman University president

A farewell to my inimitable mentor. “Write a good research proposal, and submit it to this funding agency (naming a specific agency). Let us hope it gets approved and funded.”

These were the words of Dr. Alcala that got me started into scientific research, and my life-long journey into the exciting world of science.

Before that, I dreamed of becoming a medical doctor, healing and saving lives. Dr. Alcala showed me that there is a planet needing to be healed and saved.

As an undergraduate student at Silliman, I only heard about Dr. Alcala as dean of the College of Arts & Sciences but never had any subjects taken under him, nor had any interaction with him. This was because I was in the Medical Technology program which was under the Biology Department at the time.

It was only when I took my Master in Biology when Dr. Alcala became my professor. His lectures were few but in between, he would assign us many books and articles to read, require us reports and review papers, and brought us to the field.

Field work took us to the cogonal areas of Siaton where he taught us how to identify and count birds. (Incidentally, that was where I got bitten by a baby cobra for which I was strongly scolded on the way to the hospital by an angry but concerned Dr. Alcala for wearing shorts in the field!)

Rev. Cobbie Palm & Dessa Quesada-Palm, neighbors at Silliman Park

--

I had the opportunity of working with ACA from 1992-1995 when he was Secretary of Natural Resources, and I was director of the ADB-DENR Low-Income Upland Communities Project. The full support he gave me and the project was beyond compare, especially during the most difficult times when one of our project engineers was held captive by rebels in Mindoro Oriental. After 45 days, our staff was released through the efforts of Secretary ACA. I can never forget his fatherly leadership support not only to me but to the entire staff as well. ACA is an icon of honesty, integrity, dedication, and passion to make a dent in the management of our marine resources and biodiversity. Rest now, sir ACA! You have lived your life to the fullest, and have left a legacy not only to the marine biodiversity world, but in the hearts of many people you have touched. My highest esteem and salute to Dr. Angel C. Alcala, professionally and as a person who showed a great fear of God. -- Leila Peralta, project consultant

Dr. Alcala also took us to the forests surrounding Lake Balinsasayao where he showed us the different soil types, and plant-animal interactions, including tree identification (“Look at this – this is a dipterocarp” etc., etc., etc.); to the coral reefs of Sumilon Island where he demonstrated how to manually remove the coral-eating ‘crown-of-thorns’ seastar; and to Bais Bay and Apo Island where we observed how to deal with fishers and communities. We now know the latter as the community-based approach to resource management which he pioneered. His knowledge of

Atty. May S. Aguilar, a litigation lawyer the past 30 years, is releasing her new book, Nullity and Annulment: A Non-Lawyer’s Guide to the Philippine Law on Marriage, in a formal book launch on Feb. 14 at the Silliman University College of Law - Moot Court. Atty. Aguilar is also a member of the SU Board of Trustees.

MDW....FROM P. 3

Department of Education - Division of Dumaguete, closed the ceremony by acknowledging MDW’s initiatives not just to support

schools but its impact on the city’s water services.

He admitted to be a critic when MDW first commenced, but shared

Regional Trial Court of Negros Oriental 7th Judicial Region Branch 63 Bayawan City, Negros Oriental Tel. (035)480-0281 Local 1097

Email: rtc2byn063@judiciary.gov.ph

Office of The Clerk of Court & Ex-Officio Sheriff

Cooperative Bank of Negros Oriental, Foreclosure No: EJF-005-2022

Inc. (COOPBANK) Mortgagee, -versus- For: Extrajudicial Foreclosure

Spouses Alex D. Tizon and of Real Estate Mortgage

Maria Luciana T. Tizon, Mortgagor (Under Act. No. 3135, as amended)

x----------------------------------------------/

NOTICE OF EXTRAJUDICIAL SALE

Upon extrajudicial petition/application for sale under Act No. 1508 filed by Cooperative Bank of Negros Oriental against Spouses Alex D. Tizon and Maria Luciana T. Tizon, to satisfy the mortgage indebtedness which as of November 24, 2006, amounted to Four Million Four Hundred Seven Thousand Eight Hundred Thirteen & 48/100 Only (P4,407,813.48) only. The undersigned or his duly authorized deputy will sell at public auction on March 16, 2023 at 9:00 o’ clock in the morning until 4:00 o’clock in the afternoon at the Office of the Clerk of Court, Regional Trial Court; Branch 63, Bayawan City to the highest bidder, for cash or manager’s check and in Philippines currency, the following real properties:

TRANSFER CERTIFICATE F TITLE NO. FT-7497 (Lot No. 13-C, Psd-07-040918)

A parcel of land (Lot 13-C, of the subdivision plan, Psd-07040918, being a portion of Lot 13, Pls-764-D), situated in the Barangay of Vellareal, municipality of Bayawan, Province of Negros Oriental, Island of Negros. Bounded on the SE., along line 2-3 by Lot 289, Pls764-D; on the SW., along line 3-4 by Lot 13-E; on the NW., along line 4-1 by Lot 13-D, both of the subdivision plan; and on the NE., along line 1-2 by Road (To Bayawan & Sta. Catalina). Beginning at a point marked “1” on plan, being S. 66 deg. 15’E., 3065.97 m. from BLLM No. 1, Pls-764-D, Municipality of Bayawan, Negros Oriental, thence S. 70 deg. 11’E., 21.68 m. to point 2; S. 39 deg. 37’W., 75.00 m. to point 3; N. 60-deg. 30’W., 19.60 m. to point 4; N. 38 deg. 44’E., 71.10 m. to point of beginning; containing an area of One Thousand Four Hundred Fifty Three (1,453) Square Meters, more or less. All points referred to are indicated on the plan and marked on the ground as follows: corners 1, 3 & 4 by-P.S. are cyl. conc. mons. 15 x 40 cms. and corners not otherwise described are PLS cyl. conc. mons. 15 x 60 cms.; Bearing true; date of original survey, Aug. 26, 1961, and that of the subdivision survey was executed by Engr. Marcelino G. Toralde on June 11, 1997 and approved on November 21, 1997.

TRANSFER CERTIFICATE OF TITLE No. FT-7499 (Lot No. 13-E, Psd-07-040918)

A parcel of land (Lot No. 13-E, of the subdivision plan, Psd-07040918, being a portion of Lot 13, Pls-764-D), situated in Barangay Villareal, Municipality of Bayawan, Province of Negros Oriental, Island of Negros. Bounded on the W., along line 1-2 by Lot 289, Pls764-D; on the N., along line 2-3 by Lot 13-D; on the E., along line 3-4 by Lot 13-C, both of the subdivision plan; on the S., along line 4-1 by Lot 14, Pls-764-D. Beginning at a point marked “1” on plan being S. 63 deg. 26’E., 3048.19 m. from BLLM No. 1, Pls-764-D, Municipality of Bayawan, Negros Oriental, thence S. 39 deg. 06’W., 13.70 m. to point

2; S. 35 deg.14’E., 76.69 m. to point 3; S. 60 deg. 30’W 19.60 m. to point

4; S. 39 deg. 37’W., 82.59 m. to point of beginning; containing an area of One Thousand Three Hundred Three (1,303) Aquare Meters, more or less. All points referred to are indicated on the plan and marked on the ground by P.S. are cyl. conc. mons. 15 x 60 cms. Bearing true; date of original survey, August 26, 1961 and that of the subdivision survey was executed by Engr. Marcelino G. Toralde on June 11, 1997 and approved on November 21, 1997.

DECLARATION OF REAL PROPERTY No. 99-14-0009-R

A parcel of residential land, with all its improvements existing thereon. Cadastral Lot No. 343, Pls-244, located at Barangay Kalumboyan, City of Bayawan, Province of Negros Oriental, Island of Negros, Philippines. Bounded on the N; by Lot No. 346, on the S., by Lot No. 342, on the E., by Road Lot; and on the W; by Lot No. 344, containing an area of Six Hundred (600) Square Meters, more or less.

DECLARATION OF REAL PROPERTY

No. 99-27-0008-RBI

This residential building is constructed on the land of Sps. Alex & Ma. Luciana Tizon, covered by TD No. 94-27-1263-R, located at Brgy. Villareal, Bayawan, Neg. Or. and used as family Residence of the herein declarant.

This Notice of Extrajudicial Sale shall be posted in the Bayawan City, Negros Oriental in four (4) conspicuous places where the above-mentioned properties are situated and one copy shall be posted in the Office of the Clerk of the Regional Trial Court-Branch 63, Bayawan City, Negros Oriental where the public auction shall be conducted and another copy shall be published in a local newspaper of general circulation in the Province of Negros Oriental and its five (5) components cities.

Prospective bidders/buyers may investigate for themselves the titles and the tax declarations of the above-described properties and the encumbrances thereon, if any there be.

All sealed bids must be submitted to the undersigned on the abovestated time and date.

In the event that public auction should not take place, it shall be held on March 30, 2023 at 9:00 o’clock in the morning until 4:00 o’clock in the afternoon without further notice.

Bayawan City, Negros Oriental this 16th day of December, 2022.

Copy furnished: GLENN L. NAMOL QIC-Clerk of Court VI and Ex-Officio Sheriff MetroPost

how his mind has changed after experiencing first-hand the increase in pressure in his residence, along with all the other improvements in services.

“We hope to forge a stronger partnership with MDW, and look forward to more development of our water services in Dumaguete,” said Miraflor.

The turnover of the handwashing facility was one of the highlights of MDW’s celebration of its second anniversary that day.

MDW is a joint venture company between the Dumaguete City Water District and Metro Pacific Water. (PR)

Motherhood is wonderfully imperfect. It’s a daily tug of war, a matter of push and pull.

HEARHERNOW....FROM P. 5 seeing them grow, but also want them to slow down because you know it’s a day closer to letting them go.

I remember being so scared that I might not survive my firstborn Chebby until at least she was one year old.

Overthinking was my favorite hobby that got me scared almost every night! I was always scared that I was incapable or that perhaps my resources and efforts were inadequate. I always felt short. And no matter how much I want to take full credit of how I survived what was seemingly impossible, I know for myself I didn’t do it alone. I know for sure that Heavenly Father was with me all along, and of course, my loving hands on Husband.

Motherhood, or just being a parent alone, is bittersweet. You experience the joy of THE BELL....FROM P. 5

celebrate the 100th birthday of Silliman University.

From mountain climbing to SCUBA diving, Sir ACA was restless as he was there not just for fun but to bring new knowledge to the world in the field of environmental science.

This harvest from his passion are recorded in various international publications. He was Southeast Asia’s No.1 research scientist with the greatest number of published works.

Eight years later today, I now humbly look back at it with no regrets. This is exactly how I want to look back at it.

To reminisce and witness how the grace of a loving Heavenly Father succored me in every circumstance, especially the unknown.

Even when I was mad for the most part, Chebby and Raxu still think I’m the best mom. Whenever I went to the temple, I would keep joking with them, “So it’s peaceful there at home noh because I’m not around nagging?”

And they would answer, “We just want you to come home, we still love you even if you keep getting mad at us!”

Because nothing beats

But he had time to read the poems of National Artist Edith Lopez-Tiempo and would discuss with her what was on human nature that he uncovered out of her poetry. It was very inspiring to see the union of the arts and sciences with this rendezvous of Silliman’s great minds. This rare moment happened during one lunch fellowship after an event at Silliman Church.

When asked to deliver a sermon at the Silliman

in sandugo or the blood compact to forge allegiance and loyalty between two parties.

being present. Being around says so much about Parenting. It’s our children’s definition of love and security.

I used to be so scared if I could even keep them alive until they reached one year old but now I have two cheeky kids. And yes I managed!

Then goes the usual narrative, “Where did time go?” It seems like yesterday I was just humming lullabies, but now my daily nag is on repeat. Technology has given us so much privilege, and along comes with it the advantage of vicariously reminiscing very precious memories. So glad Mae found precious memories of our cheeky boy Raxu and our Chebby geeks through memories on Facebook.

It’s definitely a wonderful feeling to relive once in awhile.

Church pulpit, Sir ACA’s message would be loaded with statistics to awaken God’s co-creators on the need for immediate action to battle climate change and environmental degradation. He inspired fellow scientists to have the same humble heart of a believer on God’s omnipotence. He reminded them to never forget to acknowledge that the new truths they uncovered and shared were gifts from the Great Giver of Wisdom.

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Republic of the Philippines 7th Judicial Region Regional Trial Court of Negros Oriental Branch 63 Bayawan City, Negros Oriental Office of the Clerk of Court & Ex-Officio Sheriff DCCCO Multipurpose Cooperative, EJF-2019-006 mortgagee - versus - For: Extrajudicial Foreclosure of Spouses Ma. Jenevie Malones & Real Estate Mortgage Teodulfo Malones, mortgagors (Under Act No. 3135, as amended) x----------------------------------------------/ NOTICE OF EXTRAJUDICIAL SALE

Upon Extrajudicial Petition/Application for Sale under Act No. 3135 filed by DCCCO Multipurpose Cooperative, a cooperative duly-organized and existing by virtue of the laws of the Philippines, with principal office business address at Sta. Rosa St., Dumaguete City, against spouses Ma. Jenevie Malones & Teodulfo Malones, with residence and postal address at Barangay Kalumboyan, Bayawan City, Negros Oriental, to satisfy the mortgage indebtedness which, as of July 19, 2019, amounted to Two Hundred Twelve Thousand Nine Hundred Eighteen Pesos and Seventy Six Hundreths (P212,918.76) Philippine currency, inclusive of interest and penalty but excluding attorney’s fees and other legal fees thereon. The undersigned, or his duly-authorized deputy, will sell at public auction on March 23, 2023 at 9:00 in the morning until 4:00 in the afternoon at the Office of the Clerk of Court, Regional Trial Court, Branch 63, Bayawan City, Negros Oriental, to the highest bidder, for cash or manager’s check and in Philippine currency, the following real property : Katibayan ng Orihinal na Titulo No. FV-44980 (Lot No. 20, Pls-1072, Case No. 1) “A parcel of land, Lot No. 20, Pls-1072, Case No. 1 situated at barangay Kalumboyan, City of Bayawan, Province of Negros Oriental, Island of Negros. Bounded on the N.E. along. line 1-2 by Lot No. 463, Pls-1072; on the E. along line 2-3 by Lot No. 522, Pls-244; on the S.E. along line 3-4 by Lot No. 21, Pls-1072; on corner 4 by Lot No. 409, Pls-1072 and Lot No. 466, Pls-1072; on the N.W. along line 4-1 by Lot No. 464, Pls1072; on corner 1 by Lot No. 17, Pls-1072. Beginning at a point marked “1” on plan being S. 69 degress 59; E. 3660. 95 meters from BLLM No. 1, Pls- 1072 of Bayawan City, Negros Oriental; thence S. 88 degress E. 236.60 meters to point 2; thense S. 4 degrees E. 174.98 meters to point 3; thence N. 79 degrees W. 372.82 meters to point 4; thence N. 25 degrees E. 274.20 meters to point of beginning.

Containing an area of Sixty Two Thousand One Hundred Thirty Five (62,135) square meters, more or less. All points are marked on the ground by “S.L.” cyl. conc. mons. 15160 cms. Bearings Grid. Date of survey was on Oct. 21, 1979 to July 27, 1961 executed by the Survey Party No. 13-A, and approved by the Regional Director, Bureau of Lands, Cebu City on June 1, 1983.

Note: This lot is covered by F.P.A.No. 074606-201”

This Notice of Extrajudicial Sale shall be posted in Kalumboyan, Bayawan City, Negros Oriental in four conspicuous places where the abovementioned property is situated; one copy shall be posted in the Office of the Clerk of Court, Regional Trial Court, Branch 63, Bayawan City, Negros Oriental where the public auction shall be conducted; and another copy shall be published in a local newspaper of general circulation in the Province of Negros Oriental and its five component cities.

Prospective bidders/buyers may investigate for themselves the title or tax declaration of the above-described property and the encumbrance thereon, if any there be. All sealed bids must be submitted to the undersigned on the abovestated time and date.

In the event the public auction should not take place on the said date, it shall be held on April 13, 2023 at 9:00 in the morning until 4:00 in the afternoon without further notice.

Bayawan City, Negros Oriental, Jan. 12, 2023.

GLENN L. NAMOL Acting Clerk of Court and Ex-Officio Sheriff MetroPost 2023 Jan. 29 • Feb. 5 • Feb. 12

“During the pre-Hispanic era, two parties would wound themselves with a dagger and drip their blood into a cup of wine, where they would then drink from the same cup to mark their bond of friendship. This symbolized that they are close as blood brothers,” said John Brylle Bae, research director of Fourth Wall.

The contemporary practice of drinking from one glass, popularly called tagay, closely resembles this ancient Filipino practice -- except that

in today’s version, no blood is shed. The idea remains: drinking from the same glass symbolizes a deep, familial relationship.

According to Packworks chief data officer Andres Montiel, “Sari IQ is the perfect business intelligence tool for retailers who are seeking market data on consumer behavior and spending habit patterns of their customers across the Philippines. Data can be customized based on their desired variables such as location, product category providing them a clear picture of the spending patterns of their customers.” (PR)

Republic of the Philippines 7th Judicial Region Regional Trial Court of Negros Oriental Branch 63 Bayawan City, Negros Oriental Office of the Clerk of Court & Ex-Officio Sheriff 1st Valley Bank Inc.-Bayawan Branch, EJF-002-2022 a development bank, mortgagee For: Extrajudicial Foreclosure of - versus - Real Estate Mortgage Minbanegro Tinapao Chiefe, mortgagor (Under Act No. 3135, as amended) x--------------------------------------------------/ NOTICE OF EXTRAJUDICIAL SALE

Upon Extrajudicial Petition/Application for Sale under Act No. 3135 filed by 1st Valley Bank Inc.-Bayawan Branch, a development bank, with office address at G/F LCJ Bldg., National Highway, Poblacion, Bayawan City, Negros Oriental against Minbanegro Tinapao Chiefe of Purok 1. Barangay Banga, Bayawan City Negros Oriental, to satisfy the mortgage indebtedness which, as of June 30, 2022, amounted to Two Hundred Fourteen Thousand Three Hundred Ninety Four Pesos and Eighty Five Centavos (P214,394.85) Philippine currency, including interest and penalty thereon. The undersigned, or his duly-authorized deputy, will sell at public auction on March 9, 2023 at 9:00 in the morning until 4:00 in the afternoon at the Office of the Clerk of Court, Regional Trial Court Branch 63, Bayawan City, Negros Oriental, to the highest bidder, for cash or manager’s check and in Philippine currency; the following real property: Original Certificate of Title No. HV-3384 (Lot No. 305, Pls-1072)

“Beginning at a point marked “1” of Lot No. 305, Pls-1072, being S. 1-42 W. 2385.71 meters from BLLM #1, Pls-1072, Bayawan, Negros Oriental, thence N. 3-42 E., 97.03 meters to point 2; N. 1-45 E., 106.95 meters to point 3: S. 87-57 E., 220.20 meters to point 4; S. 0-08 E, 220.07 meters to point 5; N. 83-59 W., 231.39 meters to point 1; point of beginning. Containing an area of Forty Seven Thousand Five Hundred Ninety Three (47,593) square meters more or less. All points marked on the ground are as follows: Point 1 by B.L. Cyl. Conc. Mons. and all the rest by P.L.S. Cyl. Conc. Mons. Bounded on the W. along line 1-2 by Lot 281, Pls-1072; along line 2-3 by Lot 282, Pls-1072; on the N. on point 3 by Lot 283, Pls-1072 and Lot 289, Pls-1072; along line 3-4 by Lot 304, Pls-1072; on point 4 by Lot 303, Pls-1072; on the E., along line 4-5 by Lot 306, Pls-1072; on point 5 by Lot 307, Pls-1072; on the S. along line 5-1 by Lot 308, Pls-1072; on point 1 by Lot 278, Pls-1072.

Bearings true.

This lot was surveyed in accordance with law and existing regulations, promulgated thereunder by Geodetic Engr. Jesus Rodriguez on Dec. 15, 1980, approved on June 1, 1983.

NOTE: This lot is covered by: H.A. (VII-2)1305 (E-VII-2)1015.”

This Notice of Extrajudicial Sale shall be posted in the City of Bayawan, Negros Oriental in four conspicuous places where the above-mentioned property is situated; one copy shall be posted in the Office of the Clerk of Court, Regional Trial Court, Branch 63, Bayawan City, Negros Oriental where the public auction shall be conducted; and another copy shall be published in a local newspaper of general circulation in the Province of Negros Oriental and its five component cities.

Prospective bidders/buyers may investigate for themselves the title or tax declaration of the above-described property, and the encumbrance thereon, if any there be. All sealed bids must be submitted to the undersigned on the abovestated time and date.

In the event the public auction should not take place on the said date, it shall be held on March 23, 2023 at 9:00 in the morning until 4:00 in the afternoon without further notice.

Bayawan City, Negros Oriental, Jan. 8, 2023.

GLENN NAMOL Acting Clerk of Court and Ex-Officio-Sheriff

FILIPINOS....FROM P. 2

biology was vast, and he had an amazing memory.

During my first summer of grad school, he asked his students, me included, if we would be interested in assisting a group of American scientists who were on an expedition to the Philippines. I just learned how to SCUBA dive then, and was eager to put my newly-learned skill to work (while earning a few bucks on the side). We later learned that the scientists were from the world’s largest research center, Smithsonian Institution. He gave us the opportunity to work with the world’s top scientists!

During these expeditions, I was assigned to a seastar expert, then a sea spider expert, then a marine botanist. When I was working with the latter, I finally found the organisms I wanted to study -- seaweeds!

I am forever grateful to Dr. Alcala for opening doors for us, and for connecting us to the experts and scientists. Even when we were still students, he would introduce us to his colleagues, making us feel important.

It is funny how many students pick some of the qualities of their teachers as they become teachers themselves, or when they work with their teachers as project staff or researchers. At the Institute of Environmental & Marince Sciences, graduate students often joke about this by attaching the teacher’s surname to the student. But I have not heard this done to any of Dr. Alcala’s students. That is because Dr. Alcala’s teaching style was so distinctive, incomparable, inimitable.

Working with Dr. Alcala has not always been easy, both physically mentally. He had the discipline of a soldier, and the energy of a 20-year old, even when he was 70. We, the research assistants, always got a scolding in the field since we slept late and woke up late. Even in his later years, Dr. Alcala was always in the Lab earlier than any of us. His publication output was phenomenal.

There were times we had differing opinions and opposing views. But one thing I appreciate about Dr. Alcala is that he always respected my views, and allowed me to grow in my chosen discipline.

At one point when he learned that I wanted to study seaweeds for my Master’s thesis, he exclaimed, “Why would you want to study weeds?!” But he quickly replied to his own question by saying how important plants are, and that there was a lack of expertise in that area, etc. Clearly, he had his own bias as a zoologist, and yet, he did co-author a paper on seaweeds.

He also fully supported my decision -- he was in my Master’s thesis committee, and endorsed my application for faculty leave -- to get a doctorate in Botany. When I returned, he gave me his full trust to head the SU Marine Laboratory as a research facility, and later on as an academic unit (now called the Institute of Environmental & Marine Sciences), offering both graduate and undergraduate degree programs in Marine Biology, Environmental Science, and Coastal Resource Management.

Thank you, Dr. Alcala, for sharing your brilliant mind with us. Each of those bits of wisdom you had imparted to us through your publications, presentations, and teachings is like a seed from a tree that has germinated. Rest assured that you have now grown a forest. ACA is a meme now, never to be forgotten. Rest in peace, my illustrious teacher. Farewell. Forever you student.... -- Dr. Hilconida P. Calumpong, former director, SU Marine Laboratory

that time, and we children at Apo were very curious that something like that existed. We would sit on the ground to watch television. It was our first time to watch television. More memorable was the documentary Dr. Alcala made us watch: it was about fishes and corals and the life of fishermen in the Philippines. And then after the program, he would explain to us what we just watched on television. We always enjoyed listening to what Dr. Alcala was telling us and our parents. May you have lasting peace, my idol. Salamat, salamat, ug salamat kaayo, Sir Alcala! -- Mario Pascobello, barangay captain, Apo Island

Four years ago, I met my good friend Angel C. Alcala at the SU office in Manila. He proudly told me, “Cris, I am now 90 years old!” He spoke like it was an achievement to reach that ripe old age, a milestone in life. I replied humbly then: “I am only 86 years old.”

Now, my good friend Angel has passed away at the ripe old age of 93, to the next world, and I remain here at age 91.

There were numberless memorable moments I have shared with my good friend, Angel, dating back to when we were both administrators at Silliman in 1967, under Dr. Cicero D. Calderon, and taskmaster Quintin S. Doromal— Angel as dean of the College of Arts & Sciences, and I as director of the School of Communication. Angel was an excellent administrator, and I was not. I was more of a doer—would rather write, edit, and teach, than manage people.

It was during his time as dean that he co- founded with my wife, Dr. Florita S. Maslog, the SU Medical Technology program, now the Institute of Clinical Laboratory Sciences. Last August, Angel wrote a letter of congratulations to the big reunion of Med Tech alumni, organized by my wife to honor the two Outstanding Sillimanians that year who were her former students.

I left Silliman in 1982 to venture into development communication at UP Los Baños. Angel remained until he was called to Manila by President Ramos to render national service as Secretary of the Department of Environment & Natural Resources, and then as head of the Commission of Higher Education. Because of his work, and his research and community service to save our marine resources, he won the prestigious Ramon Magsaysay Award in 1992.

I would always see Angel in my activities in the College of Mass Communication every year in the last few years. I am grateful for his interest in the College that I started and nurtured over the years.

When he finally retired, he would go back to his roots in Dumaguete, and founded the Angelo King Centre for Research & Environmental Management where he worked until his dying day.

To our most esteemed friend Angel, we say Godspeed, as you travel to the next world. We hope there are seas where you can continue to scuba dive, and marine resources to research. Old scientists never die, they just fade away. -- Dr. Crispin C. Maslog, Los Baños, Laguna

Dr. Angel Alcala was a very passionate teacher.

The first time I met him was in one of the Biology classrooms at the Science Building of Silliman University. I enrolled in his Ichthyology course that he took over from Dr. Annadel Cabanban while she was in Australia.He was the President of Silliman at that time.

In class, he never stopped talking about fish while writing on the blackboard using a chalk. (Back then, we didn’t have PowerPoint.) I can vividly recall one time when he was so engrossed explaining to us about fish that he didn’t realize he had already gone beyond the blackboard and just continued writing on the wall!

Dr. Alcala was also a very inspiring mentor, who had a very good sense of humor. When I was a graduate student, I knocked on his door at SUAKCERM looking for a job. He knew that I was previously assisting Dr. Hilconida Calumpong with algae and seagrasses. And he exclaimed, “What are you doing with algae? They have no sex life!”

From then on, he taught me how to identify fish. He assigned me to identify all his fish collections. Then one day, he brought me lizards and frogs. He said, “You should know everything!” I also tagged along as one of his research assistants under his Pew Fellows Project with Dr. Garry Russ.

OPINION

Someone once said that “True great men are never lost, as long as their ideals and goodness are passed on to others.” I would like to believe this is true for my father who has positively impacted many lives, including mine.

Growing up with a renowned scientist didn’t start early as my father gained prominence only after the 1990s when I was already a young man. Before that, I was merely his look-alike.

The earliest impression I had of my father as a growing child was more of a compassionate scientist who did a lot of field work and paper writing. He taught me a lot of things in animal handling and documentation, and has since then stuck with me -thus, my veterinary degree, and passion for research and documentation.

Like most fathers, Papa only wanted the best for me. During my growing years, he would often take me with him to the field where I learned to appreciate nature. When I took up hunting as a hobby, he gave me his old camera, and instructed my Uncle to teach me photo processing and photography -- and that’s how I stopped hunting, and met my photogenic girlfriend.

“Do, tabangi gyud amping ang atong fish sanctuary.” That was a very simple instruction from Dr. Angel Alcala, my mentor and old friend, who saved the life of our community and the entire environment of Apo Island. Dr. Alcala was the man behind the establishment of the first community-based marine sanctuary in the country, and it was Dr. Alcala who initiated the process that Apo Island will be under the NIPAS Law in 1994. His advocacy for the marine environment transformed me from a reef destroyer to a reef ranger. In the early 70s when Dr. Alcala would visit Apo Island, I remember he would just sleep on the beach, or in our old chapel when it rained. Sometimes he brought to Apo his black & white television attached to a tiny petrol generator. I was about six or seven years old

From establishing marine protected areas in Aliguay, Selinog and Camiguin Islands, to monitoring fish catch in Apo Island, I learned from Dr. Alcala the needed skills in making friends with the fisherfolks, talking with them on matters concerning MPA establishment, fish stocks, and their livelihood; and eventually working with them as partners and being part of the local community.

Dr. Alcala encouraged me to study further on fish, with a serious reminder: “Fish is our primary resource; our country needs people who know fish.”

Today, one of my tasks is to teach Ichthyology to our budding marine biologists at the Institute (formerly the SU Marine Laboratory that Dr. Angel C. Alcala founded and built as a research facility).

My utmost gratitude to you, Sir! Your legacy will live on! -- Dr. Aileen Maypa, SU Institute of Environmental & Marine Sciences

Papa also sent me to the best schools to get a degree on Veterinary Medicine (although I suspect, he always wanted me to pursue Biology in the local University).

When my father became a multi-awardee and prominent scientist, a rhetorical question was raised in a group where I was present, asking my father which award he thought was most important to him. His answer was simply a sly smile and a twinkle in his eye. One of the researchers suggested that it would have to be the humble community award, by rationalizing that if a common person is positively impacted by a good deed, so will the greater population.

This logic appears to reinforce my father’s idea of a successful community-based marine and forest protection that is based on a premise that forests and the seas can also be protected by the locals when they feel the importance and future of their resources.

As a professional, my father never put pressure on me to do great things, and he never seemed to forget to acknowledge other people for supporting his success

I remember that in November 2022, while on a visit, we had to keep redoing a recorded message for his latest Idlab Award, until he was satisfied that everyone was properly acknowledged.

My father lived to be of good age, and had shared his good works with others. This is the crux of his legacy that I can hold on, and hope to pass on to my children and grandchildren. -- Dr. Ely “Popoy” Alcala, youngest son of Angel & Naomi Alcala

My wife and I will always remember Dr. Angel C. Alcala for remaining to be a humble person. Even when he was already the Secretary of DENR, he gladly handcarried from Hawaii (where he paticipated in a meeting) a candlestand for my wedding -- all the way to my wife’s doorstep in Cebu (where he had another speaking engagement). He was also instrumental in getting me interested in Biostatistics, and boosted my confidence in performing statistical analysis. I will always remember seeing my name for the first time in the acknowledgment section in one of his international publications, for having performed the statistical analysis. Like many of us whom he mentored, I will miss Dr. Alcala’s addressing me as ‘Do’ (maybe short for ondoy, the equivalent for inday). — Asst. Prof. Roy de Leon, SU Biology department

I was a Chemistry major in college so I was enrolled in one or two Biology classes under Dr. Alcala. I remember he would take us to the beach, and do some research on the shores of Dumaguete. I remember it was fun to be in his classes because he was a jolly person, teaching a hard subject and very serious about it, but he was jolly. For me, Dr. Alcala was one of my best professors because he made it easy for us to understand the hard science in his topics. After college and after I focused on my family’s businesses before joining politics, I would continue to meet my professor, Dr. Alcala, in several flights to Manila or in some meetings in Manila, and it was always an honor to meet him again. And he would always talk to me about the environment. Casual chats with Dr. Alcala were always about the state of the environment. Negros Oriental just lost a good man. The country just lost a true environment advocate. -- Cong. Manuel “Chiquiting” Sagarbarria, 2nd District Negros Oriental

Angel C. Alcala with his sons Moses and Angelo, circa 1961.

IAN ROSALES CASOCOT

TEMPEST IN A COFFEEMUG

icasocot@gmail.com

Hewas many things to different people: teacher, researcher, biologist, university president, environmentalist, DENR head honcho, family man. For colleagues and mentees, he was a relentless driving force that compelled them to reach the highest aspirations in research and publication, and as Dr. Laurie Raymundo declared in her memories of the man: “He was difficult, demanding, and exacting and he taught me that nothing less than the best you can do is acceptable.”

He was also an icon, and for many people in Dumaguete where he lived since his student days in Silliman University, he was a figure of local pride: a National Scientist.

Angel Chua Alcala was born on 1 March 1929 in

Biology department, Alcala would meet Walter C. Brown, a professor at Stanford University who came to Silliman University on a Fulbright fellowship. Brown took Acala under his wing, and they worked together on several biology publications, went on numerous field trips, and collected data for research. Brown helped Alcala begin his groundbreaking work on herpetology, which is concerned with the study of amphibians and reptiles. Together, they became the authors of Observations on the Amphibians of the Mount Halcon and Mount Canlaon Areas,” a paper published in the 1955 edition of the Silliman Journal Alcala was granted a Fulbright/Smith-Mundt Fellowship to study at Stanford University, where he earned

FEATURE

By Dr. Rene Abesamis

The author wrote this piece in 2020 when he nominated National Scientist Angel C. Alcala for the International Prize for Biology (Japan Society for the Promotion of Science), upon the suggestion of his good friend Dr. Lawrence Liao.

such as typhoons and heat stress that result in massive coral mortality.

Three years later, he returned to the University to serve as President. After two years, he also resigned that post to serve as Secretary of the Department of Environment & Natural Resources from 1992 to 1995, and later as chairman of the Commission on Higher Education from 1995 to 1999. He also served as consultant on marine and aquatic projects under the UN Environment Programme, the World Bank, the Asian Development Bank, the World Bank Global Environment Facility, the Pew Fellowship in Marine Conservation, and the UP Marine Science Institute. He served the Philippine Council for Aquatic & Marine Research and Development as executive director.

He was the principal Filipino scientist in a research

National Scientist Angel C. Alcala, 93

Cauayan, Negros Occidental to Crescenciana Chua and Porfirio Alcala, and grew up in the small coastal barrio of Caliling, working alongside his father who worked as a fisherman at the nearby agricultural fish ponds, supplying milkfish to the local community.

Regarding the sea as refuge and resource was a huge part of his upbringing, and probably fostered a lifelong passion for biology. He attended Kabankalan Academy, and moved to Dumaguete to earn a degree in biology from Silliman University from where he graduated, magna cum laude , in 1951.

He then declined acceptance to the UP College of Medicine to assist his family financially by going to work. He began teaching at his alma mater not long after, and occasionally assisted in biological fieldwork for Sidney Dillon Ripley and Dioscoro Rabor. In 1953, they collected the only known specimen of the Negros fruit dove.

While teaching at the

UNDP....FROM P. 3

kayaking, boating, trekking, and hiking at the twin lakes and its vicinity.

Quoting Provincial Environment & Natural Resources Officer Viernov Grefalde, Yan said the twin lakes “serve as a vital watershed for the province of Negros Oriental.”

The Twin Lakes of Balinsasayao and Danao serve as headwaters for five major river systems including the Amlan, Ayuquitan, Hinotongan, Okoy and Cauitan Rivers. “These natural water reservoirs collect rainwater, supplying half-a-million people with potable water all year.”

Nearly 60 percent of the Philippines’ land area forms 142 critical watersheds. Watersheds work best when provided with healthy forests, as the trees help absorb rainwater. The country’s watersheds however are facing numerous threats, including illegal logging, charcoal-making and destructive kaingin or slash-and-burn farming, the UNDP consultant said.

“We’ve fortunately managed to minimize these activities by combining effective enforcement and field patrols with vigorous communication and public awareness campaign,”

his master’s degree in biology in 1959.

It was in Stanford where he found the need to apply his expertise in biology to the larger needs of his country: “My fellow graduate students were all supportive of the application of theoretical knowledge to practical problems in the country. My faculty advisers of the Graduate School were working on Philippine biodiversity, and some of the graduate students were working on similar topics… They inspired me to consider for further studies the marine fauna of the Philippines,” he told Rappler in 2014.

In 1964, Alcala returned to Stanford for doctoral studies and two years later, he became an associate professor at Silliman University. He was also accorded an honor doctorate from both the Xavier University and the University of Southeastern Philippines. He soon became vice president for Research at Silliman, but resigned in 1988.

Grefalde was quoted as saying.

“For centuries, the Balinsasayao Twin Lakes have protected both upland and lowland communities from the worst effects of storms, floods, and droughts by stabilizing the local climate and water distribution. We at DENR have been doing our best to protect the park, so our people can continue reaping its natural services,” he added.

Launched in May 2022, YoPA is spearheaded by the Department of Environment & Natural Resources, UNDP-BioFin, Department of Tourism, the Department of the Interior & Local Government, and various local governments.

The campaign’s six featured protected areas include Masbate’s Bongsanglay Natural Park, Occidental Mindoro’s Apo Reef Natural Park, Samar Island Natural Park, Davao Oriental’s Mt. Hamiguitan Range Wildlife Sanctuary, Camiguin’s Mt. Timpoong Hibok-Hibok Natural Monument, and the Balinsasayao Twin Lakes.

Yan called on residents, local government officials, and especially tourists, to help protect and preserve the Balinsasayao Twin Lakes because of its important role

Angel C. Alcala’s contributions to the biological sciences span the terrestrial and marine realms.

His published works since 1955 cover a wide range of species, including crocodiles, corals, crabs, bats, mollusks, fishes, turtles, sea urchins, frogs, giant clams, lizards, and their habits and habitats. In terrestrial biology, he is credited for the discovery of 50 species of frogs and lizards.

However, he is probably most recognized for his research on marine protected areas (MPAs) – sea areas where fishing is prohibited as a way to conserve marine biodiversity and rejuvenate fisheries.

Alcala has studied MPAs since 1973. He was the first biologist to establish an experimental MPA in the Philippines, at Sumilon Island, with the idea of increasing the fish catch of small-scale fishers. This occurred at a time when reef fisheries resources were beginning to decline due to unsustainable fishing practices, and increasing human pressures.

The lessons from this monitoring program greatly contribute to understanding how coral reefs and the ecosystems services that they provide to humans can be managed amidst global climate change.

Alcala’s work on MPAs have helped to change the laws under which marine resources are managed in the Philippines. His research at Sumilon and Apo produced some of the best available evidence that no-take MPAs, protected and managed by local communities, can play a key role in restoring biodiversity and enhancing depleted fisheries. The ecological and social lessons from these islands served as models for an expansion of MPAs across the Philippines, now numbering upwards of 1,600.

program regarded as an outstanding contribution to Philippine biological sciences which comprised studies on local land vertebrates, and the marine biodiversity of the country, which involved ecology systematics and conservation biology based in Silliman University since 1955.

The program produced empirical scientific data put to practical use in terms of special development and academic programs at the university level. The research collaboration resulted to substantial publication outputs of 169 scientific papers as well as books. Alcala authored either by himself or as first author of 86 [51 percent] of the articles and books on the program.

He is also the first Filipino to put together the most comprehensive studies on Philippine amphibians and reptiles, with minor contributions to birds and mammals. His fieldwork from 1954 to 1999 resulted

TO PAGE 13

in providing food, water, and other necessities to humans and animals alike.

The team was served fresh pako (Diplazium esculentum) salad, a variety commonly found at the Twin Lakes.

He noted that strict policies and regulations should be strongly enforced to prevent destructive practices of kaingin (slashand-burn farming) and poaching of threatened or endangered wildlife species.

BioFin Global Manager Onno van den Heuvel, according to Yan, said, “These reserves also produce the basic elements for life -- clean water, clean air and in the case of the Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park, clean energy through its active geothermal vents.”

The geothermal power plants of the Energy Development Corp. in Valencia town are situated near the Balinsasayao Twin Lakes Natural Park.

“Our planet’s protected areas aren’t just great places to visit. They all serve key ecological functions -from providing habitats to endangered wildlife to generating the water which keeps our faucets flowing,” the BioFin global manager said. (Judy F. Partlow/ PNA)

His pioneering work involved monitoring the daily fish catch of about 100 fishers who fished the coral reef surrounding Sumilon. He demonstrated that as long as the MPA (25 percent of total reef area) was protected from fishing, fishers had sustainable fish yields outside the MPA (75 percent of total reef area).

Protection of the Sumilon MPA, however, failed after 10 years, resulting in dramatic declines in fish catch (Alcala and Russ, 1990 ICES J. Mar. Sci. 47:40-47).

This led him to hypothesize that sustainable fish yields during the period of protection occurred because of “spillover” or net export of adult fishes from the MPA to reef areas open to fishing.

Further studies at Apo Island (not far from Sumilon), where he helped set up the first community-managed MPA in the Philippines in 1982, confirmed this hypothesis (seven papers published between 1996 and 2006).

The studies that Alcala initiated at Sumilon Island and Apo Island went beyond investigating spillover. In 1983, Alcala, together with Garry Russ (James Cook University, Australia) started in these two islands what would become one of the longest-running marine environmental monitoring programs in the world.

The program continues to this day, and has so far produced 17 papers (1996 to 2018) that have demonstrated the complex responses of coral reef fish and benthic communities to protection from fishing, as well as to climate-induced disturbances

has so many listed items—that usually means a cook that cannot edit his offerings, and who relies on a dispirited assembly line preparation with no true culinary identity to call his own. Mostly.] The minimal fare on Domus’s menu told us: “These are the choicest of what I want to cook for you, and I don’t want to be distracted by too many offerings.” We ordered the garlic chili pechay and the ampalaya shredded fish and the crispy palabok—which are apparently the favorites.

By the first bite, we knew we were wrong to doubt.

The blanched pechay with garlic chili oil was a refreshing and appetizing mix of hot and cold, red and green, mild and complex. The unexpected pairing of ampalaya and mango provided a freshness that was new, the flakes of fish a startling addition. When the crispy palabok came, we were mute from all other considerations, except to allow our eyes to savor: the crispy-fried noodles puffed and piled on the plate, topped with soft-boiled eggs, green onion and seared shrimp, with calamansi on the side. We poured the warm and savory sauce onto the dish, and we watched the nest of noodles collapse. And then we dug in—and the flavors crackled in our tongue, and we were goners. We finished off with their fizzy lime Negra, Domus’s signature drink: the unlikely combination of coffee and citrus blended perfectly, topped with sparkling water for a

This expansion of MPAs has contributed substantially to a major shift in national policy, where management of marine resources devolved from a centralized government bureaucracy to the municipal governments and local communities. This devolution model has since been adopted in other developing countries like Indonesia and Kenya. The major shift in national policy on marine resource management in the Philippines was also made possible by Alcala’s appointment as Secretary of the Department of Environment & Natural Resources from 1992-1995. Alcala’s life’s work on MPAs demonstrates that we can do something to help nature bounce back from man’s negative impacts, and strive for a balance that would allow both nature and man to thrive. In the coral reef realm, especially in poorer countries, this balance becomes all the more important as the ecological responses to man’s impacts are directly linked to food and livelihood security for millions of people.

In 1992, Alcala’s devotion to public service through science and environmental conservation was recognized by the Ramon Magsaysay Foundation (regarded as the Nobel Prize counterpart of Asia). In 1999, Alcala was also jointly awarded (with Garry Russ) the prestigious Pew Fellowship in Marine Conservation. He was the first Filipino to receive this award. In 2014, Alcala was conferred the title and rank of National Scientist by the President of the Republic of the Philippines.

I hope that ACA’s life will continue to inspire future scientists and conservationists. He was truly extraordinary. I owe a lot to him. We all owe a lot to him. Rest in peace, dear Sir. -- Dr. Rene Abesamis

cold finish.

We went back again a few days ago. “We haven’t been to Domus for a while,” we said to each other. “Let’s try their other fares.”

We tried their spaghetti, an updated classic with its rich ragu sauce topped with cheese sauce and a sprig of parsley. It was a tad too rich, to be honest, its surprising Indian whiff perhaps coming on too strong [Renz insists it was Italian]. But the sinilihang pork belly was another matter, a concoction so surprising we could not help but gasp. The crispy unctuous pork belly wading in bagoong-flavored coconut milk sauce and flavored with chili, on a bed of blanched pechay and sitaw [yardlong beans] tied in knots [the greens provided a necessary contrast to the porkiness of it all]. We usually have problems with pork fat, which can be offputting when prepared without love, but there was no such problem with the dish, with the taste of bagoong washing over our palates first and finishing off with a kick from the chili. It was delightful.

We have never been disappointed with Domus fare. And Domus passes our most basic of expectations: the food is always tasty, and the food is always filling. And it doesn’t break the bank! This restaurant, which seemed at first like an experiment in restauranting by college bros, is lightyears better than many of the snobbiest restaurants in town. Margot would have been happy eating here.

CULINARY CUTS....FROM P. 13

A scholar and an outstanding practitioner of science. A teacher who was ready to share what “modest things” he knows (his words) in service of people and planet.

A person of faith who saw the beauty and lushness of the world as God’s grace for humankind, which must be kept and sustained as an act of worship.

He was not easy to give up on what he sees is truth. In Vladivostok, his first international presentation on the link of coral reef health and fisheries abundance was questioned and assailed. But he has been since proved right.

Today, his pioneering work on reef protection is among the recognized pillars of coastal marine conservation.

A friend to many. A mentor. An inspiration.

PATHWAYS....FROM P. 5

those videos that rated so high because the influencers involved have donated oodles of cash to homeless people.

At first glance, it looks like a noble gesture that will surely melt anyone’s heart, but then it will be discovered that the only purpose is to go viral.

Psychologist Andrea Bonior, host of a podcast entitled Baggage Check: Mental Health Talk and Advice have this to say — “One potential problem with content like this is that it can be dehumanizing to those who are being helped.

“When being filmed by an influential figure, there may be a power imbalance in which participants’ emotional experiences are “commercialized,” Bonior says.

TEMPEST....FROM P. 11

to the identification of 50 more species from the 400 known species of reptiles and amphibians. Because of his work, conservation programs in the Philippines are now well established.

Alcala also participated in the Australian-ASEAN marine project in the mid-1980s to the early 1990s. The Silliman Marine Laboratory, which he founded in 1973-74, has been active in research on marine protected areas, fisheries and marine biodiversity, mariculture, and conservation of Philippine plant and animal species. His marine science publications consist of about 80 papers on coral reef fish, marine reserves, long-term effects of protection on marine biodiversity such as corals and top predatory fish. Most of these papers have been published in refereed, international journals and books.

In 1977, he set up the first artificial reef in the Philippines in Dumaguete, and then, seeing the degradation of coral reefs all over the country, he began to set up a series of MPAs, first

“We run the risk of turning real people into symbols.”

However, what separates compassion from exploitation is motive. When these videos advocate kindness, education, and inclusion – as shown in MrBeast’s video – the outcomes include making a change and rousing others to do the same.

The psychologist expounds that while there are all types of proof that people do acts of kindness for reasons that aren’t purely unselfish, still, the act doesn’t automatically make it a bad thing.

“There are multiple layers of people’s motivations, but we also have to ask about the effects,” Bonior says. “How are people talking about the video? Will it inspire people

in Sumilon Island off southern Cebu, and then in Apo Island. The establishment of MPAs is now considered one of Alcala’s greatest legacies.

For all these hard work, he was amply rewarded with recognitions and accolades. He received the Outstanding Sillimanian Award for Biology in 1988, and was also recipient of other honors, including the Outstanding Oriental Negrense Award in Science & Technology by the Province of Negros Oriental in 1991, the Gregorio Y. Zara Award in Applied Science by the Department of Science & Technology in 1991, the Ramon Magsaysay Award for Public Service by the Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation in 1992, the Field Museum Founders’ Council Award of Merit in 1994, the Outstanding Fulbright Award in Ecology by the Philippine American Educational Foundation in 1996, the Outstanding Dumagueteño in Science & Technology by the Dumaguete City Government in 1998, Honorary Fellow by the California Academy of Sciences in 1999, and Professor

to do good things? Will it spur awareness about blindness?”

The endgame

With Donaldson’s “curing blindness” video, people are now aware that they don’t need to have lots of money or don’t need to stay in hospitals for a very long time to be able to see again. That video also informed people about simple surgical procedures. More than that, it created a new cognizance of blindness as a health problem.

It goes to show that whatever is MrBeast’s real intention, he has done a world of good for other people. Isn’t that what’s important? The results?

For skeptics out there –aren’t the results more than enough?

Emeritus for Biological and Marine Sciences by Silliman University in 2007.

In 2014, he was named a National Scientist of the Philippines.

Even in his twilight years, he continued to be of service to the community. He was a member of the Board of Trustees of Silliman, and was director of the SU Angelo King Center for Research & Environmental Management. He was also director of the Commission on Higher Education Zonal Research Center at Silliman.

But he was fully aware of the specific mark he made in his years of passionate work for biology and the environment: “Work on the conservation and management of the unique biodiversity, for which the Philippines is known, has given me a feeling of satisfaction that my academic degrees have been useful not only to me and my family, but also to the country,” he once said.

Alcala married Naomi Lusoc in 1952, with whom he had six children. He died in Dumaguete City on Feb. 1, 2023.

RENZ TORRES and IAN ROSALES CASOCOT

CULINARY CUTS

renzchristianmtorres@gmail.com

Ifyou have seen The Menu (2022), Mark Mylod’s scathing “eat the rich” satire set in the world of haute cuisine, you will probably remember the cheeseburger scene. Not to give too many details to avoid the worst of spoilers, the film chronicles a particularly life-changing day for a celebrated chef, his devoted kitchen staff, and the deep-pocketed diners who could afford his $1,250 per head menu. Part of the allure for these diners is the exclusivity that money can buy: the attention to detail by an exacting chef who gives a culinary experience that borders on the theatrical, all in the comfortable confines of a glimmering restaurant set in a private island whose diverse ecosystem of flora and fauna provides the ingredients necessary for the food entailed in the menu.

For this day, Chef Julian Slowik—played to chilly perfection by Ralph Fiennes—has curated a guest list that will provide a reckoning for a life lived in the exacting demands of the kitchen and the public expectations that go with becoming a culinary god; for these guests, Slowik has devised a very special menu. By the time dinner ends, that reckoning will be met in unexpected ways.

There’s only one catch: a diner who’s not in the guest list—a woman named Margot who is clearly not part of the 1% and who has come to accompany one of these high-rollers, Tyler, a

A few nights ago, we decided to try another new restaurant, also along _______ Drive. The food was mostly fine, if expensive. Except for one detail that was disheartening: the rice for a rice bowl dish had the consistency of bad lugaw. And we thought: an expensive meal shouldn’t expect you to swim through your carbs.

Which leads us to Domus, an unassuming little restaurant in Amigo Subdivision under the proprietorship of two enterprising young men, Raoul Obligado and Neil Clarion, with the latter serving as chef. Domus, truth to tell, defies all our attempts at being unsatisfied. We were prepared to hate it, shaped by circumstances that seem funny now. We heard about it from friends and from Facebook, and when we finally decided to drop by, we couldn’t find a table. The place was busy, filled to the brim with college types—and on cursory inspection, the venue had the feel of a boy’s dormitory hastily converted to a no-frills restaurant. [In truth, it is housed in a repurposed residential house in the subdivision, complete with front grilled windows with climbing variegated monstera leaves.] There was no attempt at polish at all, and the vibe was Bohemian meets the Millennial—which we mostly didn’t mind. We liked that kind of vibe. [We miss Kape Lucio in Piapi!] But they couldn’t accommodate us, and we had to leave. We asked if they were open on

privileged foodie who likes to believe he knows everything about food and seeks affirmation from his idol, Chef Slowik. Margot has taken the place of Tyler’s date—and Margot’s presence, and her seeming indifference to all the culinary theatricalities that are being served up, unsettles Chef Slowik’s grand designs for the evening. A bunch of wonderful things happen that culminate to one fraught confrontation in the film’s third act, where Margot tells the chef to his face that his menu, in all its high conceptual wonders, bores her. “And what’s worse,” she says, “I’m still hungry.”

This visibly pains the chef, who asks her what she wants to eat instead, catering to her pleasure, and off the menu of course.

“A cheeseburger,” she demands. A lowly cheeseburger , the antithesis of all the haute cuisine that surrounds them.

Chef Slowik relents. He cooks the “best cheeseburger she will ever eat,” and when she signals satisfaction, it makes the chef happy.

Best to leave this unexpected movie review at that. We suggest you see the film yourself—and laugh, and go hungry, and reel from the horror of it all.

All of the above is really a long prologue for us to be able to say one simple thing: the only measure of dining out is the unalloyed satisfaction we get from the eating. For us, this means two basic things: [1] the delight of taste, and [2] the fullness of a satisfied belly. When one pays premium in dining out, these two things are paramount, especially for the regular Dumaguete diner who still remembers a time [the 2000s!] when paying P150 for a dish is highway robbery. Times have changed of course—and runaway inflation is unavoidable in the New New Society—but the old sense of Dumaguete kuripotness largely remains intact. So when you expect us to pay P250-P400 for a meal these days, you better wow us in the savory department, and you better make us busog. We will certainly demonstrate public impression by any restaurant’s theatricality and atmosphere and culinary concept, but if the menu fails in both counts, you will not read a bad review here [almost no one writes bad reviews in Dumaguete] but the grapevine will be buzzing: “Wala sya’y lami, mahal pa gyud,” the whispers will say, and they will carry.

A few months ago, we decided to try out this new restaurant along _______ Drive, in a setting you could call warehouse chic. The soup we ordered for starters was good. But when the entrees arrived, we were stunned by how stingy the servings were. How stingy? Ant-Man would have been happy. And when the bill came, it totaled to almost a thousand pesos. Probably not shocking if you are in Manila, but in Dumaguete? These two Dumaguetnons were shocked. And we left that restaurant very hungry still. We ended up buying burgers in Jollibee to sate us. And we will never probably go back to that restaurant again.

Sundays, and we were told they did, and they opened doors at 11 AM. We returned on Sunday, and true enough, the place was open. But there was absolutely no one around. We called out for what wait staff could attend to us— and there was no one. Until a door opened— apparently the CR/ bathroom— and out came someone clad only in a towel, who freaked out when he saw us. “Are you open?” we asked. “Yes, sir,” he replied, “kinda. But we are not yet ready to serve guests.” We inwardly fumed, and then we left— determined not to go back again. But of course we did. Months later. And we were prepared to loathe it.

The immediate thing about Domus’s menu that attracted us was the limited number of fares, always a good sign. [Beware of restaurants that

The understated restaurant that never fails to impress

Students at the SU College of Mass Communication show what they prepared for their bug-out bags in one of the activities for their class in Risk Disaster & Humanitarian Communication. (Photo by Oliver Olivas)

Mountain bikers from Dumaguete stop by the Century Tree in Canlaon City Saturday on their way to Bacolod City for a biking tour. From left, Arch. Bobby Duray, Ryan Uy, Engr. Arnel Balbon, Pacita and Atty Lester Nuique, Rene Alvarez, Jonatahn Kho, Dennis Casas and Antonin Cortes (contributed photo)