Dumaguete Metropost, May 14, 2023 edition

LGUs, church support peace initiative

Several mayors in Negros Oriental and Bishop Julito Cortes of the Diocese of Dumaguete have thrown in their support for a peace initiative that would pave the way for “healing and recovery” of the people and the province after the March 4 gruesome murders in Pamplona.

Col. Alex Recinto, acting police provincial director, said on Tuesday that with Dauin Mayor Galicano Truita backing the proposed peace pact, he has started going around, paying courtesy calls on local officials and other agency heads to invite them to the proposed peace covenant.

“After the Pamplona mass shooting incident, we had consultations, for example with the business sector, and we have seen the effect of this, particularly on the economy of Negros Oriental,” Recinto said partly in Filipino.

He consulted the Dauin mayor and both decided to undertake an activity so people could move on from the effects of the Pamplona massacre.

“We (Truita and I) have appointed ourselves as ambassadors for peace and

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Senators want NegOr under Comelec control

The Commission on Elections is open to the possibility of postponing the Negros Oriental Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan elections, scheduled for October, by at least one month.

Comelec Chairman George Garcia said they are considering the recommendation of Senator Francis Tolentino to postpone the elections in Negros Oriental to a later date so they may be able to concentrate on the 557 barangays in Negros Oriental after the rest of the country shall have held their elections.

Garcia was speaking during the investigation called by the Senate Committee on Public order and Dangerous Drugs that was looking into the spate of killings in Negros Oriental, particularly the March 4 massacre in Pamplona, Negros Oriental, that killed Governor Roel Degamo and nine others.

The Senate Committee, chaired by Senator Ronald dela Rosa, held five marathon hearings that ended Friday and may soon come up with several recommendations, under Resolution 518, with the postponement of the barangay and SK elections among them.

voiced their concerns over the safety of the voters should the barangay and SK elections push through in Negros Oriental along with the rest of the country.

Senator Padilla said based on what he has been hearing in the Senate investigation, the people of Negros Oriental have lost faith in the authorities. He said the political violence in Negros Oriental may not yet be over.

Senator Francis Tolentino, meanwhile, said surveys have shown that people in Negros Oriental are in favor of postponing the barangay elections for 30 days or up to three months.

For his part, De la Rosa strongly asked Garcia to place Negros Oriental under Comelec control.

the ocular (left to right) were: Tanjay City Mayor Jose Orlina, Sta. Cruz Viejo Barangay Capt. Feliciano Torres, and Tanjay City Councilors Daryl Aba and Carding Condes (Photo by Pawlo Lasmarias)

CoViD-19 Cases in the Philippines

as of May 13, 2023

Confirmed 4,111,028

Recovered 4,029,461

Deaths 66,453

Active Cases 15,114

Population 112,508,994

Source: Worldometers.info

Committee Members Senators Robinhood Padilla and Francis Tolentino

“We know that effective 8 October, all resources government offices, and their services are at your disposal during the election period…You do everything you can do to ensure the safety of

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Cong. Chiquiting Sagarbarria (in light blue shirt) visits the finished road that the 2nd Congressional District office built connecting the northern highway in Tanjay City to Brgy Sto. Niño (crossing sitio Tarsing). The Congressman also inspected the paving of the road leading to Brgy Pal-ew which needs more funds before completion. With him during

Two firemen train their hose at the fire that gutted a warehouse and the residences Tuesday inside the compound of businessman Peter Chuang Jr. which has become a local landmark for the longest time in barangay Bantayan, Dumaguete City. Efforts to put off the fire saw the participation of firemen from nearby towns and cities, as well as from Dumaguete businessmenvolunteer firemen. (Photo by Denniz Futalan)

BUSINESS

DOST supports women power

In a world where women’s rights are constantly being fought for, it’s important to recognize businesses that not only support women’s empowerment but are run and managed by women themselves. One such business is LNA Dietcare in Dumaguete City, a company founded and managed by Leila N. Aclaro, a registered nutritionist-dietitian.

With her professional background, Aclaro wanted to put up a business that caters to the nutritional management with medical conditions for patients of all ages. Thus, LNA Dietcare was founded in September 2016. The business started as a small clinic located in Mango Avenue in barangay Piapi. It specifically aims to provide hassle-free blenderized food for tube-feeding patients.

“My passion and dedication to my profession inspired me to start my own business. My 28 years as a nutritionist-dietician, with more than 20 years

LGUS....FROM P. 1

prosperity and we will visit all the mayors in the 25 cities and municipalities and invite them to a oneday peace covenant,” Recinto said.

He also emphasized that the activity is not just for peace but for prosperity as well, united in shared efforts to move forward amid the tragedy.

Recinto took over as acting provincial director on March 24, replacing Col. Reynaldo Lizardo, who headed the Negros Oriental Provincial Police Office at the time of the murder of Governor Roel Degamo and many others inside his residential compound in Pamplona on March 4.

Aside from Truita, other mayors who have already committed to supporting this advocacy are from Dumaguete City, Amlan, Zamboanguita,

Bayawan City, and Tanjay City.

Recinto said there is still no permanent date for the peace covenant, pending the completion of the courtesy calls and visits to the rest of the mayors.

Meanwhile, Recinto reassured Negros Oriental constituents that the police organization could still be trusted despite the alleged involvement of some of its uniformed personnel in crimes perpetrated in the province or having links to politicians implicated in the killings.

He apologized to the public for the many offenses committed against them by some PNP members as he urged the public to unite in maintaining peace and order in the province while aiming for progress and development. (PNA)

Republic of the Philippines Regional Trial Court 7th Judicial Region Branch 63 Bayawan City, Negros Oriental Tel. (035)430-0281 Local 1097 Email: rtc2byn063@judiciary.gov.ph

In Re: Petition for the Correction of Entry in Spec. Proc. No. 552

The Certificate of Live Birth of Hinechie Jabel Lucio by Correcting her Date of Birth from For: Correction of Entry January 15, 2005 to January 15, 2000. in the Civil Registry Hinechie Jabel Lucio, Petitioner

-versusThe Local Civil Registrar of Basay, Negros Oriental, Philippines, PSA Dumaguete City, Spouses Arthuro R. Lucio Sr., Crisel M. Jabel, Arthuro J. Lucio Jr., Hyro J. Lucio, and Hinechie Therese J. Lucio, Respondents.

X-----------------------------------------------------/

ORDER

of hospital experience, led me to establish LNA Dietcare,” said Aclaro.

As the company grew, it ventured to preparing meals for patients based on their unique nutritional needs. Later on, LNA Dietcare secured a five-year contract from the newly opened hospital in Sibulan, Negros Oriental as an outsourced agency. The firm provided high-quality and nutritious foods to both in-patients and out-patients.

Aclaro availed of the DOST Small Enterprise Technology Upgrading in 2019 to upgrade her processing equipment. Managing the said business was not a walk in the park. The pandemic gravely affected LNA Dietcare. “I struggled with managing our business especially during the onset of the pandemic. I did not anticipate the need for sufficient capital until I experienced the challenges. Fortunately, I was able to get…support from the government especially DOST, which helped our company to get back on its feet”, shared the owner.

Her dedication to maximizing profit and sales

TO PAGE 14

Filed with this Court is an Amended Petition for correction of entry in the year of birth of Petitioner Hinechie Jabel Lucio. Petitioner was born on January 15, 2000 at Maglinao, Basay, Negros Oriental to parents Arthuro Robles Lucio and Crisel Entino Jabel. The fact of her birth was registered before the Local Civil Registrar of Basay, Negros Oriental, Philippines. However, by mistake, in the Certificate of Live Birth of herein Petitioner, her date of birth was wrongly entered as January 15, 2005 instead of the correct one which is January 15, 2000. In her pertinent documents like school records issued by Maglinao Elementary School and Maglinao National High School and in her Certificate of Baptism, her date of birth was correctly entered as January 15, 2000.

Given the foregoing, there is a need to correct the birth year entry in the Certificate of Live Birth of the Petitioner, i.e., from January 15, 2005 to January 15, 2000. Finding the Petition to be sufficient in form in form and substance, let this case be set for hearing on June 14, 2023 at 8:30 o’ clock in the morning.

Petitioner is directed to cause the publication of this Order once a week for three consecutive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation in the Province of Negros Oriental. Petitioner is further directed to post a copy of this Order at (a) the bulletin board of the Municipal Hall of Basay, Negros Oriental; (b) the bulletin board of RTC, Branch 63, Bayawan City and (c) the bulletin board of the Provincial Capitol of Negros Oriental. The scheduled hearing shall not be within four (4) months after the last publication of this Order. Any interested party may appear during the above scheduled hearing to oppose the instant Petition. Furnish the Solicitor General with a copy of this Order and the Amended Petition and its annexes. SO ORDERED. Given in Chambers, Bayawan City, Philippines, 23 January 2023.

MARIA MYLA RAE M. SANTOS-ORDEN Executive/Presiding Judge MetroPost 2023 May 14 • May 21 • May 28

SENATORS....FROM P. 1

all the people in Negros Oriental,” De la Rosa told Garcia.

“I’m sure the security forces will support you on this. I myself being the chairman of the committee, hearing all the testimonies of our resource persons, I’m inclined to recommend to the Comelec placing Negros Oriental under your control. For me, it is for you to decide. (But) I’m just recommending to you to please put Negros Oriental under Comelec control to see to it that no one will be killed anymore,” he added.

Comelec Chairman George Garcia said while they are in favor of postponing the barangay and SK elections in the

Province, or placing Negros Oriental under Comelec Control, they may only do so from the start of the election period, which will be on August 28th.

“We will hold a command conference with the Armed Forces of the Philippines and Philippine National Police and we will definitely insist that as far as the issue of Negros is concerned, maybe we can get proper guidance,” Garcia said.

Garcia also stressed that the AFP and PNP both have the capability to assess the security situation in the province, so far they “know what is really needed on the ground.”

Kawayan Collective is an exciting new cooperative that is elevating bamboo as a modern building material. We collect, treat and distribute beautiful, durable, Filipino bamboo as a sustainable construction material that rivals cement block and steel.

Kawayan Collective is an exc ting new cooperat ve that is e evating bamboo as a modern bu ld ng materia We co lect treat and d str bute beautifu durable F l pino bamboo as a sustainable construction mater al that riva s cement b ock and steel Do you have 5+ years exper ence n construction supp y and project management? Do you want to disrupt conventiona construction? Do you be ieve bamboo can help so ve the low-cost housing shortage in the Phi ippines? Do you work wel on your own and can you bui d a strong team of d rect staff and independent micro contractors?

Do you have 5+ years experience in construction supply and project management? Do you want to disrupt conventional construction? Do you believe bamboo can help solve the low-cost housing shortage in the Philippines? Do you work well on your own and can you build a strong team of direct staff and independent micro contractors? Green Building Innovation Manager

Green Building Innovation Manager Full-t

Full-time, base monthly salary (20,000) with commission (10-30% net margin). Based in Dauin to start – with flexible work arrangement following orientation

A typical day for the Kawayan Collective Green Building Innovation Manager includes LOTS of phone calls, texts and coordination with construction industry retailers and microcontractors who are interested in going green. You believe that bamboo is the answer to our housing shortage and sustainability goals. You have the confidence to design and sell Kawayan Collective products to all types of customers - with targeted outreach to franchisees, hardware stores, developers, contractors, and architects. You can be a bridge between frontline users/ customers and production – helping to translate the needs of customers used to conventional materials into durable, sustainable alternatives that will save the world.

Essential Responsibilities: Lead Development/Green Building Ambassador (60%) - 3+ days a week or min 3 hours a day

● Develop a strategy, timeline, proposals and marketing materials targeted to micro-contractors and construction retailers

● Develop a micro-contractor sales/dealer rep commission program to multiply sales in Cebu/Manila and other target markets

● Attend industry conferences and make regular trips/calls to meet with target customers, checking in on their needs and gathering product feedback, innovating on design and installation support

● Help to market and develop an organized bamboo supplier network (Social Franchise) to mobilize for large production sales Sales & Project Management (30%) - About two hours a day

● Manage Sales Lead and Office Assistant to keep a 24hr turnaround rate for all online/walk-in inquiries.

● Quality Control: Work with Production Manager and Leads to ensure quality design and production

● Project Management: Undertake special projects, research & development for new products that help to provide affordable, sustainable alternatives to conventional construction materials General Operations & Management (10%)Time preserved for weekly team meetings and collaboration.

You know that a sale isn’t finished until the order has been fulfilled and you help orchestrate production with procurement, treatment, and admin teams to ensure long-term customer satisfaction and loyalty. You also ensure that “everyone is in sales” by helping to recruit, train and coach all Kawayan Collective team members to advocate for our products.

Reports to: General Manager

Manages: Sales Lead, Office Lead

We have:

● Full-time operations, processing 300 bamboo poles per week with a team of 40 staff

● Convenient location off national highway at Maayongtubig, Dauin

● On the job training for bamboo procurement and treatment

● SSS, PhilHealth and Pag-Ibig benefits as well as paid holidays

● Monthly phone and gas stipend

● An equal opportunity policy. We will not discriminate and are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all.

● Cooperative ownership options.

You have:

● 5+ years experience in construction management or supply sales

● Target customer contacts in construction retail, contractors, professional builders

● Binisaya proficiency

● Excellent communication skills and respect for others, the ability to lead and solve problems

● The desire to grow a successful social enterprise, a great attitude, and willingness to learn

● Smart phone, laptop (Asana, Google Drive/office products a plus)

You might also have:

● Own motorbike or personal transport

● English & Tagalog-speaking skills

● Ability to read plans, drawings (drafting skills a plus!)

● Many other talents you are willing to share

Our hiring process and timeline:

● We will continue to accept applications until the time of hire.

● We will schedule interviews starting in April. If you are invited for an interview, please bring a writing sample and/or any other relevant work samples.

● We would like to hire a final candidate by the end of May.

Please contact kawayancollective@gmail.com or 0917 105 4404 for more information/to submit your CV.

Daghang salamat!

DOST Negros Oriental PSTD Atty. Gilbert Arbon turns over a plaque and cash prize to Ms. Leila N. Aclaro. She was adjudged Best Women Entrepreneur for Negros Oriental by DOST VII.

SUPPLIERS’ WEDDING. Local suppliers in the wedding industry gather to discuss another grand wedding of their very own (clockwise, from left): master of ceremonies Michael Ramo, Nino Fernandez of Net Solutions, Anale Aves-Dancel of Antonneli’s Cuisine, cake artist Chona San & photographer Shane San; the groom El Rey Abella of Flairmoore Bar with his bride Retsell Badili; stylist Sem Badon, Angeli Dancel of Themed Parties, and Richmond Maquiling assistant stylist.

NEWS and UPDATES

PDEA nets

P7.5M of shabu on Q1

The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) in Negros Oriental province has seized a total of 1,040 grams of suspect shabu worth PHP7.5 million in different antiillegal drug operations for the first quarter of this year.

More ‘witnesses’ flown to Manila

A new batch of resource persons has been flown to Manila from Negros Oriental to testify during the resumption of the Senate hearings on the assassination of Governor Roel Degamo last March and various other killings in Negros Oriental over the past several years.

This comes after additional cases of killings in the province have been added to the list, which the Senate is

already looking into.

About 70 people, including the slain governor’s widow, Pamplona Mayor Janice Degamo, boarded a C-130 Air Force aircraft at the Dumaguete-Sibulan airport at past 1 p.m. on Tuesday, en route to Metro Manila.

The Senate is scheduled to hold an executive session on Wednesday and committee-level hearings on Thursday and Friday.

10th Pamplona victim succumbs

A man who survived the gruesome massacre in Pamplona, Negros Oriental where Negros Oriental Gov. Roel Degamo and eight others were killed has died due to gunshot wound infections and complications.

Provincial Health Officer Dr. Liland Estacion told the Philippine News Agency on Monday that Fredelino Cafe, Jr. succumbed to sepsis on Sunday, two weeks after his last admission to the Negros Oriental Provincial Hospital (NOPH) in this capital city.

“He developed an infection due to his gunshot wounds so I advised him to be admitted to the hospital,” Estacion said.

Cafe, 52, of Sibulan, Negros Oriental and an employee of the provincial government, was one of the 17 victims who were wounded when armed men attacked the Degamo residential compound in Pamplona town.

Estacion said Cafe had sustained serious multiple injuries and was “in and out of the hospital” since the attack.

Cafe would be the 10th person to have died in that attack that took place more than two months ago and his death comes as the Senate hearings on the mass

shooting and other killings in Negros Oriental are set to resume this week.

At least 11 suspects have been arrested and are now in the custody of the National Bureau of Investigation after cases have been filed against them.

Suspended Rep. Arnolfo Teves Jr. (3rd District, Negros Oriental) has been tagged as the alleged mastermind of the killings. His whereabouts remain unknown.

His counsel said it is not safe for Teves to return to the Philippines even if the lawmaker would want to face all the allegations against him.

Teves left for the United States on Feb. 28 for health reasons.

Meanwhile, Pamplona Mayor Janice Degamo has expressed grief over the latest death in the massacre that she described as an act of terror.

“The massacre is a clear act of terrorism! Now, another life is lost – the 10th. Fredilino Cafe Jr. was very close to Gov. Roel. It is indeed very sad. Negros Oriental cannot remain under the reign of terror,” the widow of the late governor said in a text message. (Judy F. Partlow/ PNA)

Col. Alex Recinto, acting police provincial director, told reporters that he and a few other police officers from Negros Oriental have also been summoned to the proceedings, as previous killings even before his time are now included in the probe.

In a statement, the Pamplona mayor commended “the courage of these new witnesses who have come forward after witnessing the Senate Hearing weeks ago.”

“Their bravery will help bring justice and truth to light, and will hopefully serve as an inspiration to others to speak up and stand up for what is right. We cannot be forever terrorized. We need your prayers,” the governor’s widow added. (Judy F. Partlow/ PNA)

Fire guts warehouse, homes

A man was hurt in a fire of still unknown origin that destroyed residential homes and a warehouse in Barangay Bantayan in Dumaguete on Tuesday.

An initial report from the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) here said they received a callout at around 12:35 p.m. regarding the fire.

City fire marshal Chief Insp. Marlon Chomling told the Philippine News Agency that the blaze spread so fast and was difficult to contain due to the presence of highly flammable materials such as paint and thinner.

“We had to call in help from the other fire stations and private volunteer groups and used foam to douse the fire as it would only get bigger with water,” he said.

Initially, at least three houses and one commercial building, separately owned by members of the Chuang family, were damaged by the fire.

Chomling said the fire alarm reached third level by 12:50 p.m. as the fire would rekindle again and again but the blaze was placed under control by around 2:15 p.m.

The injured, a certain Steve Michael, 48, suffered a first-degree burn on the right forehead and seconddegree burns on his left arm and foot.

Chomling said residents of Casa Esperanza, a temporary shelter for abused women and children, and some nearby houses were evacuated to safer ground.

At least 16 firetrucks responded to the scene, including those from the local government units of Sibulan, Bacong, Valencia, San Jose and Dauin, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines from the airport nearby, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office and the Chinese volunteer group, among others, said Chomling.

As of late afternoon, Chomling said he cannot yet declare a fire out although the blaze has died down already as firefighters are still doing mopping-up and overhauling operations.

The estimated cost of damage has yet to be determined.

DA offers P14M to coffee and cacao farmers

The Department of Agriculture (DA) here has apportioned of P14 million for the production of coffee and cacao under the Coconut Farmers and Industry Development Plan (CFIDP) components.

This is part of the Coconut Farmers and Industry Fund Act, in which the government has finally used the multibillion-peso coco levy fund to revive and modernize the country’s coconut industry.

With that, the agriculture department in the province has 3.33% of the total budget from the national budget to focus on the development of the coconut value chain.

This is to support smallholder coconut farmers through

intercropping with coffee and cacao, and maximize use of coconut lands.

This is also to increase the sufficiency of local coffee and cacao farmers which the province has large potential to produce, said Mary Ronville Aba, focal officer of high value crop development program of DA.

“Why not produce our own coffee and cacao since we have a lot of buyers from coffee shops, we have chocolate makers here in Valencia, so why not produce our own raw materials,” said Aba.

The DA is expected to distribute planting materials of cacao beans and coffee seedlings, ferilizers and other postharvest equipment

to lower the cost of processing and will increase income due to value adding.

Under the CFIDFP, the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) is tasked to carry out coco programs and project initiatives in partnership with other government agencies.

Coconut farmers interested in CFIDP projects must enroll at the National Coconut Farmers’ Registry System (NCFRS).

Eligible members include farm owners and/ or owner-tillers, coconut growers who own at least half a hectare of land with a minimum of 20 coconut trees, tenants or tenant-workers and farm workers or laborers. (JCT/ PIA7 Negros Oriental)

PDEA-Negros Oriental provincial chief Agent Elmer Ebona told the Philippine News Agency on Tuesday that the biggest one-time haul of the “shabu” seized was in February during an operation that yielded one kilogram of the prohibited substance and the arrest of a “high-value target.”

Ebona said during the period covered from Jan. 1 to April 30, they conducted three highimpact operations and arrested 10 high-value targets in different parts of the province. Supply of shabu is mostly from nearby Cebu province, although some are sourced from Mindanao and even as far as Metro Manila, he said.

The practice of sending shabu via couriers is also still being practiced although it is not as frequent as it was in previous years, he added.

The PDEA agent said drug personalities in the province usually dispose of at least 15 grams of shabu a day. Once the supply arrives, it is immediately divided into smaller volumes and distributed to the street-level pushers, he added. (Judy F. Partlow/ PNA)

PSA notes high teenage pregnancy trend

The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) here reported the increasing trend of births among adolescent mothers under 15 years old or in Grade 9 students in Negros Oriental.

It was shown under its Civil Registry and Vital Statistics (CRVS) in 2021 that at least 2,254 girls aged 15 to 19 gave birth in the province.

Supervising Statistical Specialist Felida Generoso of PSA presented some relevant data that can guide policy makers to formulate measures and intended impacts to young people in a Data Dissemination Forum.

It was noted that the surge of pregnant teenagers in the province has been long observed in the past years. The local Commission on Population official also

A tanker from Metro Dumaguete Water boosts the water supply of the Dumaguete Fire Station in battling the fire Tuesdat at the warehouse of Golden Rule Store in barangay Bantayan. (Contributed photo)

EDITORIAL To postpone Or not to postpone

Acting on the information they have been getting from the testimonies presented during the investigation of the Senate Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Drugs, Senators Robinhood Padilla, Francis Tolentino and Ronald dela Rosa want to either postpone the holding of the Barangay and SK elections in Negros Oriental or place the Province under Comelec control during the election period starting August until October.

Senator Padilla said based on what he has been hearing in the Senate investigation, the people of Negros Oriental have lost faith in the authorities. He said the political violence in Negros Oriental may not yet be over.

With all due respect, the conclusion of our senators about the prevailing peace and order condition in Negros Oriental is flawed. It may be true that, from what we have heard and seen during the televised Senate investigation, there have been killings which have not been solved. It may be true that there have been people who have been harassed, maltreated and unfortunately have been unable to get justice.

In Negros Oriental, as is also the case in many parts of the country, police investigations and court cases do not move forward mostly because of the lack of witnesses. Definitely, this situation could not be a ground to postpone the barangay elections.

We don’t need another Senate investigation to get things right in Negros Oriental. We just need all of us to step up to the challenge of doing our civic duties in order to make our society a better place to live in.

This involves simple and basic things, like the proper disposal of our garbage, obedience to traffic rules, adopting proper environmental practices, and other things we were supposed to have learned in kindergarten.

Postponing elections is not the answer to our problems. In fact, postponing elections will further result in the preservation of the status quo that we all so desperately want to change.

We have to make democracy work. We should not just wait for our leaders to shape up but we all have responsibilities to make democracy alive. This involves vigilance in the affairs of government and the willingness to call out our leaders whenever they do wrong and commend them for doing right.

Do we deserve to live in a democracy?

whelmayap@yahoo.com

Ishomelessness a problem in our City? Data shows that homelessness is caused by lost jobs, insufficient income, lack of a stable job, domestic violence, psychological/ mental problems, natural disaster, or armed conflict.

There may be other factors resulting in the housing crisis s uch as rampant evictions and demolitions, exacerbating the homeless population all the more, while profitoriented/corporate projects are prioritized by government.

Recently, a text message allegedly from a resident of the coastal barangay of Tinago started circulating on social media, claiming that the families there were instructed by persons claiming to be functionaries of the “City Legal Office” to vacate their area post-haste since it will be developed by the City soon. They were informed that since the area is government property, they cannot possibly be owning their residences there, and that they have no right to relocation, nor any

form of government assistance for the eviction.

Now, these Tinago residents are requesting for assistance from the City Council, or any agency that can possibly help them.

Whether this is fake news or not is beside the issue; but it has the potential of becoming a

should cause grave concern to all government agencies.

These homeless are powerless, invisible residents who survive on their own by scouring through garbage bins when not begging for food infront of fastfoods -- who are being tolerated by countless bystanders like you and me.

Homelessness

social problem, with the soonto-be-evicted Tinago residents becoming homeless in the City anytime soon.

Could this also happen to the rest of the families living along the coast of Dumaguete like barangay Banilad?

This University Town surely has its version of homeless people, visible by the naked eye, roaming the streets of Dumaguete, begging for alms, sheltering in ‘skywalks’ or shacks carelessly put up on vacant lots; toddlers loitering or sleeping on the hot pavement or inside abandoned police outposts, or on other run-down building, which

JG UMBAC

If we wanted to be true to our being a “City of Gentle People”, the needs of these homeless should not be ignored and set aside in favor of more aesthetic-looking and profitable seemingly-highimpact projects.

Private civic groups have actually responded to their sorry plight like i-Homes , Gawad Kalinga, Caritas, PHCCI, DCCCO, and other church groups; what is the local government doing about this social problem?

Whatever happened to resettlement or relocation sites which are part of the socialized housing program funded by

THE WAY IT IS

bjplug@gmail.com

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA -- A few years now, after retiring and having lived in the Philippines since, some people tend to think I have a vast knowledge of the relative safety situation in Negros Oriental. Those who more-than-occasionally ask me what it really is like to be on the ground in Dumaguete, and the other neighboring cities and municipalities in the Province, are also locals who have now lived for some time in the United States or Canada, or some other foreign country. They ask me because they don’t trust what they hear or read, and rightly so.

I share with them this: On the ground anywhere in Negros Oriental, there is no discernment of imminent danger. You know, they only ask this because of what they have heard and watched on YouTube and other sources of Philippine news.

The province of Negros Oriental has now been painted as a cesspool of unbridled criminality. There is so much talk of people made mute by the fear of being gunned down. There is so much talk of angles—political, personal, land dispute, power, gambling,

etc. as the reasons for the spate of killings. The only angles not mentioned nowadays are the trigonometric ones.

I cringe when someone asks me if it is still safe to go around Dumaguete! I look around to see if anyone, not Filipino or from Dumaguete, is within earshot of the question. Even if the answer is in the positive, it could be embarrassing that it is even asked. Just like on YouTube, where the country’s corruption is greatly showcased for all to see. And

country’s police officers can be bought. They are easily attracted to and corrupted by the glint of money, like the sailors who knew what the song of the sirens could do to them but couldn’t help but sail close to them anyway. It seems there is no escape from the temptation of corruption. Their demeanor belies the fact that, even if they now earn twice as much as they used to, they still fall slave to their yearning for more. It really does feel like a disease

Insulator breakdown

because, supposedly being the foremost English-speaking country in Asia, everyone opts to speak and murder that language, the whole world understands now how inutile the Philippine government really is.

Everyone now knows that Filipinos are so far from being law-abiding when in their own country, and under their own government, so unlike when they’re in other countries. As has been further uncovered and disclosed in the recent Senate inquiries (conducted in aid of legislation), even the

without cure, doesn’t it?

Then another point of embarrassment is that the world knows how low the price of the Filipino is: He could stand to have an incompetent leader for 5¢ a day ( ₱ 50.00 at the polls on election day), for three years! And he’ll settle for the same amount in the next election. Imagine that!

Of course, there are places where the bribe is upwards of ₱ 3,000.00, but even that is only ₱2.74 a day for three years! Is that the “going price” for the Filipino’s dignity and

international aid agencies?

What about the profiteering by big businesses, contractors and developers, allegedly facilitated by government authorities, who get a share of the housing budget released?

What is the status of the City government housing program?

Housing is a human right, provided under Article 25 of the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and in Article 11.1 of the 1966 International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights , which contains freedoms including the “protection against forced evictions / arbitrary destruction and demolition of one’s home, to be free from arbitrary interference with one’s home, privacy and family, and to choose one’s residence, to determine where to live and to freedom of movement”, which is also recognized and guaranteed in the 1987 Constitution. A number of conditions must be met to constitute “adequate housing” such as Security of tenure, Availability of Services, Materials, Facilities and Infrastructure, Affordability, Habitability, Accessibility, Location, and Cultural Adequacy. Calling the attention of the Dumaguete City government!

pride and vote?! The prices of votes are probably driven by the estimated amount of loot that politicians expect to haul at the end of their term/s! Or else, why would they spend so much money to win an office that pays so much less than some of the things they buy with spot cash?

It is not surprising to me there is so much bickering between politicians, with each camp claiming the other is the corrupt one. The blame has to go somewhere, so what better place than the opposition’s reputation? The nerve of each of them!

And can you imagine they can keep straight faces as they utter lies with such vehement passion! They cannot feel free to engage in corrupt practices until the blame is squarely on someone else. But then again, there are those who just couldn’t care less, and indulge themselves with gusto!

Recently, I read somewhere that certain “concerned” individuals have suggested that Negros Oriental be placed under military supervision if only to quell the civil disorder. It sounds as if we’re talking about some African nation ruled by a ruthless dictator who has killed thousands and left millions more mutilated.

In Negros Oriental, though, it sounds as if we are just so ready to condemn civilian rule because of a few people. I think what the government should do instead is help these warring factions

ATTY. WHELMA SITON-YAP

SANSEN LEE VENDIOLA

PEOPLE’S CORNER

PORT MOODY, CANADA--

Dumaguete’s population has risen dramatically, from 121,000 in 2010 to 131,00 in 2015, and over 134,000 in the 2020 count. The population of Dumaguete, however, swells during the school year when students gather in the city to attend at one of the city’s four universities and many colleges, vocational schools, high schools, and grade schools. During summer, the city’s population drops since a good percentage of the over 30,000 high school and college students return to their hometowns in Negros Oriental and other provinces.

Park. He directs traffic and assists car drivers get a space at separate sections of his assigned parking area on Perdices Street.

Efficiency is his forte. He packs motorcycles in a most organized manner, “murag sinardinas” to accommodate as many motorcycles and vehicles in a very crowded parking area.

Dumaguete’s core really has not planned for the deluge of motorcycles and cars. Its streets are very narrow, and creating parking spaces along these streets is a no-go proposition.

Truly, “you build and they

give him “generous tips.”

Rarely do drivers shell out P1 coin or lesser coins, perhaps too embarrassed to pay for the services of Manong Carlito.

Many drivers feel good about giving some “tips” to Manong Carlito (and his two shift partners). But almost as many begrudgingly shell out coins to Manong Carlito. A few drivers even shoo him away so they don’t feel obliged to part with those precious coins.

Drivers think they’re giving him tips. He thinks they’re paying “parking fees.”

“Kalagmitan, makaabut

Parking in streets (and sidewalks)

Many of these students ride motorcycles, and a few drive cars. Dumaguete has been once touted as the “motorcycle capital” of the Philippines. Obviously, the students — plus other drivers — create nightmarish parking problems in the city’s core.

Here is where Manong Carlito and the many other parking attendants in the city come in nicely to alleviate the parking woes of the city.

Manong Carlito Cuevas, 82, has been working as registered parking attendant in Dumaguete City for over twenty years. Most recently, he watches over the southwest parking area along the Quezon Park across from the Cathedral belfry and the Catholic cathedral.

You see, he helps motorcyclists park their bikes neatly and safely along the sidewalk of the Quezon

will come” is a perennial problem in the city core. Build a few parking slots and a flood of vehicles will come fighting for any space available.

Furthermore, the presence of Manong Carlito discourages vagabonds to steal or vandalize cars and motorcycles. Manong Carlito is the unsung “policeman.”

His job is one of dogged determination, even of pride of still earning some pesos at such old age. All this in spite of the searing heat of the sun or the misting or even the barrage of rain on some days.

Service is his forte. When it’s raining, he drapes the motorcycles’ foam seats with plastic bags to keep them dry. On hot days, he covers the seats with cut cardboards to prevent the seats from overheating in the sun. Because of this extra service, most drivers are willing to

ko’g gatos matag adlaw. Kung maDominggo, usahay makalimpiyo ko ug tres cientos,” he proudly reveals when I ask how much he earns a day.

“Kalagmitan, mutunul ang mga drayber ug tig sinko pesos.”

On the surface, this parking arrangement is actually a win-win situation for everyone involved. The Dgte City LGU charges Manong Carlito P2,000/year parking attendant’s registration fee. Manong Carlito earns about P1,000 a month; he shares his monthly P3,000 total income with two other parking attendants waiting on drivers at the same designated stretch of the sidewalk.

Deeper analysis reveals that the city LGU gets indirect and hidden income from the parking spots without the

TO PAGE 14

legis616821@gmail.com

Iwaspiling up dirty clothes to be brought to the laundry when my attention was caught by a black shirt that belonged to my daughter. On the front was a huge-lettered oneword saying #SELFLOVER. For a while, I knew I had a mischievous grin on my face because I felt proud of my 26-year-old daughter. Young as she is, she already knew her worth. That single word printed on her shirt was her simple way of expressing how she values herself. Others first?

As women, we are often taught to put others first and prioritize their needs before our own. We are taught to be nurturing and caring, take care of everyone else, and put our needs on the back burner.

do something that brings us joy, whether it be a hobby, exercise, or spending time with loved ones. In my case, I would always turn to my art, to my writing, to visiting coffee shops and going to massage salons where I can savor the expert kneading of a masseuse that always soothes my tired body.

We can also take care of our bodies by eating healthy foods, getting enough sleep, and exercising regularly. Embrace our imperfections

Second, we must embrace our unique qualities and characteristics.

and compassionate to ourselves, just as we would be to a good friend. We need to treat ourselves with respect and understanding.

Good company

Finally, we have to surround ourselves with positive people who uplift and support us. People who love us for who we are and who encourage us to pursue our dreams.

Can women who are trying very hard to make ends meet still practice self-love?

Yes, definitely. How?

The power of self-love

However, this mentality can lead to neglecting ourselves and our happiness.

We need to remember that self-love is not selfish; it is a necessary component of a healthy and happy life. Learning to love ourselves can improve our mental health, boost our confidence, and help us achieve our goals.

So, how can we learn to love ourselves as women?

Self-care

First, we must practice self-care regularly. We need to take time out of our day to

We all have our strengths and weaknesses, and we must appreciate and accept them all. We, women, should not forget that our imperfections are what make us unique and special.

Positive self-talk

Third, we need to practice positive self-talk. Our internal dialogue can have a significant impact on our self-esteem and confidence. Instead of criticizing ourselves for our shortcomings, we should focus on our strengths and accomplishments. We need to tell ourselves that we are worthy, deserving, and capable.

We also need to practice self-compassion, by that, I mean we need to be kind

Practicing mindfulness does not demand too much time from us and doesn’t require that we spend any money, yet it can be done anywhere, anytime. Simply taking a few moments to focus on the present moment and breathe deeply can help reduce stress and increase feelings of self-compassion within us.

If we choose to engage in physical activity, there are many free or low-cost options, such as walking, jogging, or practicing yoga at home.

Finally, is to practice gratitude. Taking time each day to reflect on the things we are grateful for definitely does not take so much time and no amount of money is needed. Yet, it can powerfully boost our self-value including our mood.

wea_129@yahoo.com

Afew days ago, my wife and I went to the mall grocery to buy some foodstuff. As she was lining up in the queue waiting for her turn to pay the cashier, I was just standing nearby and watched a group of senior citizens in a huddle.

If I’m not mistaken, these elderly guys were just a little bit older than I am, or maybe the same age. As I stood there, one of them caught my attention because he was obviously having a hard time with his cell phone. He tried asking the help of his friends but I can tell that they weren’t the ‘techie’ types too. To hasten

challenges we face is the rapid pace of technological advancement. While technology has greatly improved many aspects of life, it can be overwhelming and difficult for some seniors like me to keep up with. This can lead to social isolation as we struggle to communicate with family and friends who rely heavily on digital platforms. It can also create barriers to accessing important services, such as healthcare, banking, and transportation.

Another challenge we face is the changing landscape of the workforce. Many people in my age bracket are choosing

The idea that seniors are frail, forgetful, or unable to learn new things can lead to isolation, as well as low self-esteem and a negative self-image among many of us seniors.

How society can support/ empower seniors

Despite these challenges, there are many ways in which society can support and empower senior citizens in this rapidly shifting world. For example, some organizations and initiatives offer technology training and support to seniors, helping them to stay connected and have access to important

The elderly in a changing world

the resolution of his problem, the elderly with the cell phone issue called his grandson and asked the kid to tell him what to do.

The scenario was a very familiar one. While I am not totally ignorant of technological gizmos, still, there are times when I don’t know what to do with them. This brings my mind to the reality of the plight of senior citizens in this very fast-changing world. Challenges of the 65 and over

This demographic, the ones aged 65 and over, (the group I belong to) make up a significant portion of the population and face unique challenges as they navigate the changing world.

One of the most significant

THE WAY IT IS....FROM P. 4 admit that they really have serious shortcomings they alone can mitigate. The way it is sounds like the people are being duped into believing that this “angled conflict” will get out of hand, and swallow the entire Province, eventually spitting it out a useless pulp. And talking of military intervention, it is used as a scare-tactic to hopefully take away the naturally rough edges of a society composed of, what else but people. What has become of us if it only takes a few to muddy the waters we are all in?

If the pandemic took a heavy toll on the Province’s tourism industry, a heavy military presence will probably kill it. Although it may not be a permanent death, it will disrupt Negros Oriental’s economy for some time (more than we would like). Why, even those locals who now live in other countries may not want to come home to face the specter of death in their homeland.

As I listened to the mention of Negros Oriental in the

to continue working beyond retirement age for financial reasons or to stay active and engaged. However, ageism and a lack of training opportunities can make it difficult for seniors to find employment or advance in their careers.

In addition to these challenges, we seniors also face unique health concerns as we age. Chronic health conditions, such as arthritis, heart disease, and dementia, can impact the quality of life and require ongoing care and management. The COVID-19 pandemic has also highlighted the vulnerability of seniors to infectious diseases and the importance of social support networks.

And the biggest hurdle is the stereotype about aging.

Senate hearings, I could only imagine how badly its been painted by those who spoke of the killings. Some testified that there had been hundreds killed and in what specific years. Someone who does not know Dumaguete City and Negros Oriental, and have not been there at all, may think its dangers are on par with Colombia’s during Pablo Escobar’s heyday. Yes, that’s how they are making it seem like, whether they know it or not. And what they don’t know, the rest of the people will pay for.

There is something that insulates the rest of us from the troubles of the few.

When I am on the streets of Dumaguete, and other places in the Province for that matter, I do not feel the dangers that have been so described by those who say the peace and order there is out of control.

As I travel along the well-trod streets of Dumaguete, I don’t feel the danger that those who are feuding feel. If someone were to tell me that I’d have to stop at so many checkpoints

services. Employers can also offer age-friendly policies and training programs to help seniors remain active and engaged in the workforce.

In addition, healthcare providers and policymakers can work to improve access to healthcare and social support services for seniors. This includes expanding telehealth services, improving transportation options, and investing in affordable housing and community resources.

Ultimately, as the world continues to change, we mustn’t forget about the needs and contributions of senior citizens. By working together to address the challenges they face and empower them to thrive, we need to create a more inclusive and compassionate society for people of all ages.

for their benefit, I’d be royally mad, as you should, too.

What insulates us is our positive outlook, and our resilience, and our zest for life, and our intelligence. Dumaguete, being a University Town, should have plenty of the latter. If so, should it really be that easy for its people to believe that the troubles now are being served to them? They should not be so easily convinced by what others declare. They should learn to feel their way through their own City, and weigh things more critically than simply saying, “People got shot…I could be next.” And, really, the feud is between the feuding!

While it’s true that people have died at the hands of other people, I think it’s prudent to simply spectate and wait what the entire investigation comes back with. That will be the best thing to do because all those murders are not directed at you. Preserve what insulation you have, and don’t let it break down.

NOTICE

NOTICE

The public is hereby informed that ELISEO V. LIM and ANGELINA L. MANUEL of Dumaguete City and FE V. LIM of Guihulngan City have executed an EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT WITH WAIVER OF RIGHTS over the estate of LILIA V. LIM of Dumaguete City, particularly the deposit with the LAND BANK OF THE PHILIPPINES Guihulngan City Branch under Savings Account Number 0911-0770-78 on April 18, 2023 in Dumaguete City which is recorded as Document Number 51, Page No. 12, Book II Series of 2023 in the Notarial Register of Atty. Rafael C. Orillana.

MetroPost 2023

May 14 • May 21 • May 28

NOTICE

The public is hereby informed that ELISEO V. LIM and ANGELINA L. MANUEL of Dumaguete City and FE V. LIM of Guihulngan City have executed an EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT WITH WAIVER OF RIGHTS over the estate of LILIA V. LIM of Dumaguete City, particularly the deposit with the PHILIPPINE NATIONAL BANK Guihulngan City Branch under Savings Account No. 308910002836 on April 18, 2023 in Dumaguete City which is recorded as Document Number 50, Page No. 8, Book No. II Series of 2023 in the Notarial Register of Atty. Rafael C. Orillana.

MetroPost 2023

May 14 • May 21 • May 28

The public is hereby informed that ELVIRA M. TORRES and ELMARK

M. TORRES, heirs of the late MARIO ZERNA TORRES have executed an EXTRAJUDICIAL SETTLEMENT WITH SPECIAL POWER OF ATTORNEY over the bank account in the name of MARIO ZERNA TORRES with the Land Bank of the Philippines Bais Branch; Bank of the Philippine Islands, Dumaguete Perdices St. Branch; Union Bank of the Philippines, Dumaguete Branch; and the Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation, Kabankalan City Branch on May 2, 2023 in the Municipality of Mabinay and is registered as Document Number 439, Page No. 89, Book No. I, Series of 2023 in the Notarial Register of Atty. Anthlyn Eve I. Pelesmino. MetroPost 2023 May 14 • May 21 • May 28

DGTE....FROM P. 14

arrangements are still being made, Aguilar said.

Last year, around 600 participants took part in the triathlon. This year’s number dropped after it was rescheduled from April to May, to give way to the Annual Communication 2023 of the Grand Lodge of the Free and Accepted Masons of the Philippines.

After the gun start is at 5:30 a.m. at Rizal

Boulevard, participants have to swim 1,500 meters and go on a 40-kilometer bike ride and followed by a 10-kilometer run. Gilbert Ablong, chief of the Traffic Management Office (TMO), said 40 enforcers from the Discipline Zone team and 90 from the TMO, will be deployed to secure the athletes and to ensure smooth traffic flow. (Judy F. Partlow/PNA)

9697 in lieu of the lost one; Hazel P. Amil, Petitioner x--------------------------------------/ ORDER

Before this Court is a verified petition for the issuance of a new duplicate Original Certificate of Title No. OV-9697 in lieu of the lost one, filed by petitioner Hazel P. Amil, through counsel, Atty. Froilan Joseph B. Pinili. The petitioner prays that after due proceedings, judgment be rendered ordering the Registry of Deeds of the Province of Negros Oriental to issue a new Owner’s Duplicate of Original Certificate of Title No. OV-9697.

The petition shall be heard on July 21, 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 consecutive weeks in a newspaper of general circulation in this province and its component cities.

Pursuant to Sec. 109 of P.D. 1529, furnish the Register of Deeds for the Province of Negros Oriental with a copy of this Order. 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 in the Barangay Hall of Barangay Banilad, Bacong, Negros Oriental where the subject parcel of land is situated.

SO ORDERED. February 28, 2023, Dumaguete City, Philippines.

GLENDA J. YEE-UYMATIAO

Presiding Judge

MetroPost 2023 May 14 • May 21 • May 28

GMA 7 broadcast journalist Kara David gets a chance to talk with local triathletes Edmar Balandaca (left) and Dario Ednozo during a bike out Saturday in preparation for Sunday’s Dumaguete Triathlon (contribute photo)

The exhortation of my mom Narcisa “Titat” BanogonNg : Life is what you make it! Actually, words of wisdom passed on from my Lolo, Engr. Franciso Banogon, to Mom, to us, and to our kids. Hope the grandkids will pick it up, too.

--Marissa Dames, communications specialist

As a mother yourself, what do you tell your children that you learned from your own mother?

I tell my kids that their Lola, Juliet AmadorTirambulo, would always say: 1. God above all else. Life is futile without a moral compass. Always pray — in tough times and most especially when things are going well. Be grateful to the source of everything; 2. Health is wealth;

3. “The taller the bamboo grows, the lower it bends.”

Practice humility always; 4. “…clinched fists are not open hands to receive with”. Blessings come from giving. Share your blessings so you have room for more; 5. Love yourself. You cannot serve from an empty cup. --Caroline Iris Armogenia, visual artist

One thing I have learned from my 99-year-old Nanay, Sabina DongalloCole , is to have trust in the Lord always. This has been implanted in me and my siblings while we were growing up. Likewise, I always tell my daughters to trust in the Lord, and to seek God’s guidance, especially when making lifechanging decisions.

-- Maria Havranek, proprietor, Cuttin’ Loose

I learned the importance of resourcefulness and the value of creativity from my mother, Stella Koppin-Florendo . That beautiful things take time to create or have. This is something I wish I could teach my son. --Dr.

Louanne Piñero, Human Resources Management director, Silliman University

My mom, Nora Ruiz-Ravello has taught me to always be humble, stay grounded, and to always Keep the Faith. I strive to show my sons and daughter those same lessons. -- Dr.

Daphne Rana, obstetriciangynecologist

Mommy, I sabel Dimaya-Vista , would always tell us: “You are unique and beautiful. Give of your best all the time. Always remember to thank God.” I also try to impart that to my daughters.

--Dr. Elizabeth Susan Suarez, dean, SU College of Performing & Visual Arts

The best lesson I learned from my mom, Chedette Mascardo, that I see through her actions is compassion for others. She always goes over and beyond to be able to help others. Happy Mother’s Day, Mommy! --Ina

MartinezBanogon, mom of Jared Blake and Mariella Adrielle

-- Marikit Armogenia, businesswoman

As my mom, Jane SabadoRomero , would always say: You can be whatever you want to be in this lifetime. And so that is also what I imbibe on my children.

-- Lujana Herrenauw, homemaker/ writer

My Mama, Remedios T. Ozoa, a retired Science teacher, would always tell us: “When faced with life’s challenges, do not dwell on your smallness. Instead, focus on the Greatness of our God.”

--Dr. Susan Micaela Denura, cardiologist/director, SU Medical Center Heart Institute

My mother Mila MontenegroWettstein taught me the value of communication, which I have passed on to my son, Ramon.

My mother, Corazon Parial , always showed me the importance of praying, and how to be thankful in any circumstance. That is now what I try to always do with my sons.

- - Ylang-ylang

Jordan, homemaker

My mom, Cahirup “Baby” TembrevillaArmogenia , taught me to always remember those who have been good to you. And to learn to be joyful at all times. That is also what I try to teach my daughter.

My Mom, Sylvia Somoza-Malahay, loves the outdoors, exploring new places, meeting people, and being of help to others when needed. My children are fortunate they continue to have the privilege of growing up with their Grandma, so what I often tell them is: “Just look at Mommyla, you can also learn a lot from her in life.” I’m fortunate that my girls also indulge in the things that their Lola loves to do like baking, cooking, gardening.

--Yvette

Kim, full-time artist

At the age of 92 years, my mom continues to use her iPad and android phone to communicate with friends and family. Esther Ceniza-Windler, environment advocate What I appreciate about my mother, Donna LawasValleser, is that she has a frugal mindset and she is very industrious. Like most families with one parent working abroad, starting out a family buried in debt is never easy. Most of the salary that my father sent to my mother was either earmarked for debt payment or the tuition for us four siblings. Despite this, we never felt deprived of any of our needs, sometimes even our wants, because she prioritized her spending, and was hustling on the side before the concept of side hustles became a thing. We were able to live comfortably with a little something left for us to splurge on once in a while. That is what I carried with me into my married life. Living contently within my means, and with what I am blessed with. -- Kara Denise Dupio, homemaker

My mother would always tell us: “Hard work always pays off. There is no shortcut to success. Always be kind to others especially those who are underprivileged.” These are the same things I tell my sons now.

-- Myrish Cadapan-Antonio, cofounder/CEO, The Philippine Living Heritage Initiative

ENVIRONMENT

SU, USAID, GCash to plant

500,000 mangrove trees

The country’s leading e-wallet has teamed up with the US Agency for International Development’s Fish Right program and Silliman University to plant half a million mangrove trees in Negros Oriental, in line with its goal to fight climate change and support biodiversity.

GCash, USAID, and Silliman University will plant half a million trees across 78 hectares beach forests covering 19 barangays in the towns of

GForest, in partnership with Silliman University. We continuously work with various credible international and local partners who are following a science-based approach,” said CJ Alegre, head of Sustainability. “Together with the people of Negros, and the millions of users of GCash, all of us can plant the seeds for a better tomorrow.”

Dr. Hilconida Calumpong of Silliman University reiterated the importance of mangrove

will earn ‘green energy’ which they can save up, and use to plant a ‘digital tree’. GCash and its partner communities will then plant all the earned ‘green energy’ as actual trees.

At present, GCash has 12.9 million ‘green heroes’ who are contributing to fight climate change through this user-friendly, digital feature. To date, GCash has planted 2.2 million trees nationwide.

Silliman University, as a consortium partner of the USAID Fish Right Program,

GCash vice president for sustainability Charles Joshua Alegre and SU vice president for Finance Atty. Ebenezer Lim complete the ceremonial signing establishing the partnership among Silliman University, the USAID Fish Right Program, and GCash. Looking on are GForest manager Patricia Manio and Dr. Ben Malayang III, USAID Fish Right Program principal investigator in South Negros. (SU IEMS photo)

Zamboanguita, Siaton, Sta. Catalina, Bayawan, and Basay.

In five years’ time, the mangrove trees are expected to act as a carbon sink for about 117,000 tons of carbon dioxide. USAID and Silliman University formally launched the partnership through a ceremonial signing, and a mangrove planting activity on May 5 in Lutoban in the town of Zamboanguita, about 28 kilometers south of Dumaguete. Around 200 participants joined the launch, including core representatives from GCash, local and provincial government officials, and various fisherfolk associations, women’s groups, the Silliman’s Student toward Environmental Welfare & Research for Development & Sustainability (StEWaRDS), representatives from the Department of Labor and Employment and Department of Environment & Natural Resources, and the Voice of the Free Foundation.

The newly-launched alliance will also support local communities, particularly people’s organizations and women’s groups, through the provision of skills training on conservation and management of selected mangrove forests, and through cash for work assistance.

“We at GCash are committed to support the reforestation of South Negros though

ecosystems to climate resilience and food security. “Mangroves are important ecosystems that support climate change mitigation by storing large amounts of carbon; and adaptation [measures], by protecting coastlines from typhoons,” said Dr. Calumpong. “Healthy mangrove systems are also closely tied to livelihoods, serving as nurseries for fish stocks. Degradation of mangroves areas, therefore, has a negative impact on both the climate resilience and food security of coastal communities.”

“This alliance aims to restore the mangrove forests of the local conservation areas of our partner LGUs, and to contribute to the protection of our communities,” said Nygiel Armada, USAID Fish Right Program chief of party. “As we hand over the initiatives that have been started under the Program to our partners, we are starting a new chapter in our journey of sustainability in South Negros. Planting half a million trees is a good way to start this new chapter. We are very grateful to have facilitated the establishment of this collaboration between one of our consortium partners, the Silliman University, and GCash,” he added.

GCash introduced GForest in 2019 to address climate change by enjoining Filipinos to contribute to reforestation efforts through their digital transactions. For every transaction done in the GCash app, users

aims to support ecosystembased adaptation. This collaboration recognizes the importance of mangrove ecosystems in climate change mitigation and adaptation and in supporting the livelihood of coastal communities as it serves as nursery grounds for many fish, crab, and shellfish species.

The USAID Fish Right Program is a seven-year partnership between the US and Philippine governments to promote fisheries management and marine biodiversity conservation originally in the marine key biodiversity areas of South Negros, Visayan Sea, and Calamianes Island Group.

On its last two years, the Program is focused on the fisheries management areas 5 and 6 in the West Philippine Seascape of the South China Sea.

Fish Right enables sustainable fisheries by reducing threats to biodiversity, and improving marine ecosystem governance. It works through a consortium of government agencies and organizations including the Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Fisheries & Aquatic Resources, the University of Rhode Island, PATH Foundation Philippines Inc., Silliman University, NGOs for Fisheries Reform, the Marine Environment & Resources Foundation, and Sustainable Fisheries Partnership & Resonance.

(Gilda Maquilan)

I remember my mom, Bessie LarenaPonce de Leon, always telling us then: “Count your blessings, name them one by one.” I’m sure my own children,

I’ve always admired my mother, Aning Sy, for her values, and I see to it that I pass these down to my children as she did with me. My mother is strong, and has never backed down from any challenges. She is generous, never missing a chance to lend a helping hand. She is hardworking, and always gets things done. She is intelligent, and has valued education since she was young. But most importantly, she is compassionate, empathetic, and respectful — values I

Jorbas and Eña, also benefit from this same advice. -- Menka Ponce de Leon, homemaker

As a mother myself now, I share with my children the most important virtues in life: love of God, Respect for others, and Love for all. These three are the most

significant values that I learned from my mother, Marjorie Echiverri-Viking, which one can ever live by. For me, these three serve as power bars that fuel me as a person in becoming a good mother. My mother always encouraged us siblings to see the goodness is everything in life. And that is how I also want my children to see things when they will eventually become parents. --

Frenjie Claribeth Cordova, homemaker

I see my mother, Presencia DemerreAves, as a warrior. We were not born with a silver platter, and we saw how Mama tried to make both ends meet. Although she was a teacher by profession, Mama never had time to mentor us in our studies as she devoted her extra time to house chores and preparing food to

believe are significant as we encounter everyday people with different stories. I took her teachings and values to heart, and it is thanks to her that I have become the woman I am today. So to my mom, to me, and to all the mothers in the world, Happy Mother’s Day! -- Cong. Josie Limkaichong, 1st Congressional District My Mama, Aureliana SonjacoCatacutan , would always tell us that we should not waste time, do what we

can while we are still young, and while it is still possible before every chance will be gone. That’s what I also tell my children to do. -- Mary Joyce Solomon, ultramarathoner

My mother, Anita Fontelo-Sinco , would tell me: In whatever you do, stay humble and prayerful. -- Engr. Geronica Martinez, proprietor, GSM Builders

sell at school to augment her income. Our poverty never stopped Mama from sending us to the best school in town, dressing us up in decent clothes, and making sure we didn’t leave the house on empty stomachs. She would always tell us the only thing she could promise us was not material wealth but good education. Mama taught me various lessons in life: face your battles head on, be friendly with everyone, extend help whenever you can, and God will always be with you in all your endeavors. I hope I have been able to echo that to my three children. --

Anale Dancel, proprietor,

Antonelli’s Cuisine

SPORTS Dgte cements tag as triathlon host

Dumaguete City has cemented its reputation as a triathlon venue as it hosts Sunday’s 4 th Triathlon 2023, which is participated in by some 400 local, national and foreign participants.

In a press conference on Wednesday, Mayor Felipe Antonio Remollo is expecting the yearly triathlon competition will bring in more tourists here as the city aspires to become a sports tourism capital.

“Triathlon has become one of our exciting events in commemoration of the 75th charter day anniversary of the city of Dumaguete,” Remollo said.

optics of having “taxed” drivers for parking. Besides, it might have cost the city even more to collect parking fees or to install parking meters in that given area alone.

Add to this the always problematic collection of delinquent fees from drivers who can’t be bothered to pay proper parking fees. These drivers often believe Dumaguete sidewalks should not be converted into a paid parking, yet they do eagerly park there anyway.

In larger cities (in the Philippines, and in more developed countries), parking meters and the enforcement and collection of parking fees can be problematic in many cases. Allegedly as high as 23% of parking fees in noncomputerized parking meters are unpaid. So, many city governments contract out the parking fee monitoring and collection. The governments merely charge license fees to these parking companies.

For instance, before the era of high-tech computerassisted parking fee collection in Vancouver, the largest city close to where I live, it’s reported that about 75,000 Vancouver parking tickets a year — one in every five — are unpaid. That’s a lot of uncollectibles.

The city does not run after the delinquent drivers because parking violations are much less of a priority compared to violations against properties and lives of people. Bigger crimes can remain unattended to or unresolved if petty violations like unpaid parking fees divert the resources of an overworked justice or criminal system. Governments have priorities.

In the economy of using the poor and allowing to be used, institutions like government units, appear to help the poor and the powerless by providing them jobs (like those of parking attendants) that are indirectly controlled by the institutions. On the surface, such is a noble act of government.

Yet, because individual parking attendants — though licensed by the LGU — cannot really dictate how much to charge for their services, they are at the mercy on the generosity of the drivers.

These attendants receive

merely a fraction of a real parking fee which could amount to perhaps over ten pesos per hour at certain parking spots. Or, compare that to our Vancouver’s typical $2.50/hour street parking (roughly P110/hour).

“Usahay, wa pud hinuun koy madawat sa mga drayber mga mupahimulus pag park dinhis akong lugar,” Manong Carlito laments.

“Kung makabak-ap na gani ang drayber nga wa pa nakabayad, di na na sila muhatag. Ilabi na kung magulan.”

Car drivers rarely open their driver-side windows when it rains because that will make their arm and the interior of the driver’s side be drenched. Motorcycle drivers are more forgiving and grateful, especially when they realize Manong Carlito has covered their motorcycle seats. He also reveals that a certain medical doctor seldom pays him “parking fee.”

“Wa kuno siyay sensilyo. Mauy iyang pasumangil kalagmitan,” he sighs.

This female doctor usually parks her nice car a little past 10 am, and drives out just before noon. Manong Carlito guesses that she goes to the Cathedral church every morning.

I doubt it. I check the mass schedules of the Catholic cathedral posted on a bulletin board outside the church. There’s no mass at about 10:30 a.m.

I have no heart to share with Manong Carlito what I think: the doctor is doing her daily rounds at the nearby Holy Child Hospital. (But I actually believe he already knows the obvious.)

“Apan usahay, muhatag baya pud si Doktora ug P20. Usahay lang pud.” P20 is the smallest paper bill denomination.

“Lipay ra pud ko nga maka-income pa gihapon ko sa akong kagulangon. Ang akong madawat adlaw adlaw maka tabang nas pamugas sa akong pamilya.”

“Makatabang pud sa pagpaeskwela sa akong mga apo. Basun di sila hangtud lang sa pagka parking attendant ugma damlag.” Manong Carlito meekly shares his hopes for his family.

cited that children who became mothers at a young age may end up living in poverty as workers who do not have college degrees.

Generoso said 15% of teenage mothers were from Siaton and Pamplona, and other registered live births delivered by adolescent girls came from the cities of Bayawan, Tanjay, Guihulngan, Canlaon and the municipality of Sta. Catalina which also comprised more than 12% of the total births of their place.

The PSA official said these data can be the basis for programs of the local government units or other agencies to introduce these young people to reproductive health programs and prepare them for their future.

Although the PSA official said their primary role is only to gather the data, he said that practical evidence suggests the link of risky behavior of the youths, technology, ineffective parental guidance, poverty, and

has not hindered her from creating a workplace that values inclusivity and diversity. Her belief that women are equally capable as men in the workplace has led her to employ both men and women personnel.

Work-life balance management while juggling three jobs is quite a challenge, said Aclaro. She said she learned how to prioritize and improve the way she manages her time to meet the demands of both her professional and personal life.

Aclaro credits the DOST SETUP for the success of her business. “I am humbly thankful to DOST for the award given to me as the Best Woman Entrepreneur in Negros Oriental. I am grateful for the opportunity and thankful for DOST’s contribution and support. I sincerely appreciate the help in pursuing my business career,” she said.

DOST Negros Oriental Provincial S&T Director Atty. Gilbert R. Arbon expressed his congratulations to this year’s winner. “I congratulate Ms. Aclaro for garnering the distinction as one of the Best Women Entrepreneurs in Region 7. She was able to capitalize on her knowledge as a nutritionist-dietitian into a niche food business catering to hospital patients, and she managed to keep it going despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic”, he said.

Aclaro has shown that women can succeed in the world of entrepreneurship by creating an inclusive workplace that values diversity, and by addressing the unique needs of its customers through science, technology and innovation. (Reinhold Jek Abing/DOST NegOr)

“Of course, sports tourism through triathlon is one of the crown drawers and favorites of our city and of our province,” he added.

At least six foreign triathletes, including a female sexagenarian, have also registered for the event, said Kathy Aguilar, city information officer.

Aguilar said broadcast journalist Kara David of GMA Network, Department of Tourism Undersecretary Elaine Bathan, and a few other celebrities and VIPs are participating in the swimbike-run event, although their names were not disclosed to surprise the spectators.

Popular TV/Radio sports commentator Chiqui Reyes will host the triathlon. Several athletes participating in the ongoing Southeast Asian Games have also signified their intention to join the event although

DUMAGUETE REPRESENT! Rotary International Area 3D officials Asst. Gov. Leonil Geñoso, RC Dumaguete East President Christian Tapis, RC Dumaguetr North President Mark Anthony Trayvilla, RC Dumaguete South President Aurelio Bodo; and Area 3E’s RC Tolong President Tom Opeña show off their signature banners during the annual District Conference in Cebu City. (Contributed photo)

The second batch of resource persons who are expected to testify in the Senate inquiry looking into the spate of killings in Negros Oriental board the Air Force plane for Manila Tuesday. (Photo by Roy August Bustillo)

PEOPLE’S CORNER....FROM P. 5

DOST....FROM P. 2

PSA....FROM P. 3