BusinessWeek Mindanao (February 13-14, 2014)

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Volume IV, No. 64

Market Indicators

As of 6:02 pm feb. 12, 2014 (Wednesday)

FOREX

PHISIX

US$1 = P44.83

6,112.31 points

23 cents

X X Briefly 6.28 points

Nutrition committee THE Regional Nutrition Committee 10 (RNC-10) agreed to expand its membership in response to the standing order of Health Secretary Enrique Ona, appointing the body as the lead cluster on Nutrition Management in Emergencies and Disasters.

In the recent committee meeting, the members decided to utilize the RNC’s existing structure and expand it, to cover now the Department of Justice (DOJ), Office of the Civil Defense (OCD), and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED).

This move is aimed at ensuring the nutritional status of affected population especially the most vulnerable group and people with debilitating conditions not worsen or deteriorate because of the impact of emergency and disaster situations by linking with other cluster/sector groups and establishing capabilities at all levels.

Customer survey MALAYBALAY City -- Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Bukidnon is urging those who have renewed their business permits this year to take part in the Online Customer Experience Survey by the DTI’s Center for Industrial Competitiveness (CIC).

DTI Provincial Director Ermedio J. Abang said the 2014 Customer Experience Survey aims to assess and validate the performance of the local government units (LGUs) in terms of the renewal process for Mayor’s Permit from the viewpoint of the business community.

He said the CIC implements quality and productivity programs for industrial competitiveness and offers services that include conducting orientations and training programs on human relations, management development, quality and productivity.

“The client will only have to visit the CIC website at www.competitive. org.ph and click the 2014 Customer Experience Survey icon and follow its instructions. Such online survey takes only few minutes to work on because of its easy-to-answer questions,” he said.

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Manufacturing to lead future economic growth

T H E i n d u s t r y s e c t o r, particularly manufacturing, is expected to lead the Philippine economic growth in the coming years.

Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan said the manufacturing sector has been accelerating over the past few years as more investments coming in for expansions.

In 2013, manufacturing, along with construction, served as the frontrunner in the growth of the industry sector. The sector continued to get a boost from related sectors and a growing export demand.

Balisacan, also the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Director General, said merchandise exports expanded mainly due to the strengthening of the global manufacturing sector in line with the recovery of the world economy.

Exports of services, on the other hand, also accelerated last year on the back of the expansion of business process outsourcing (BPO) firms and the influx of tourist arrivals in the country.

“With such indications of recovery from the global economic crisis, we believe growth/PAGE 7

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AS ARMM TRANSITIONS INTO BANGSAMORO

More investments seen for Mindanao

By CAROLYN O. ARGUILLAS MindaNews

D

ARMM SUMMIT. President Benigno S. Aquino III praises ARMM Governor Mujib Hataman in his speech during the closing of the ARMM LGU Summit at Waterfront Insular Hotel in Davao City yesterday (Feb. 12). mindanews photo by toto lozano

Bukidnon SP backs Hedcor’s power projects

By WALTER I. BALANE, MindaNews

MALAYBALAY City — The Bukidnon Sanggunniang Panlalawigan has “endorsed and supported” Hedcor

B u k i d n o n I n c .’s t w o hydroelectric power projects in northern Bukidnon that are expected to generate a total of 51.6 megawatts (MW).

In a resolution passed Monday, the SP cited that

the provincial government of Bukidnon “has been fully apprised of the company’s commitment in relation to its undertaking vis-à-vis the benefits that the company will be sharing and or extending not only to the power/PAGE 7

AVAO City — T h e r e’s business in peace, and mining and banana firms are cashing in on the positive investment climate as the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) transitions into the Bangsamoro, the new autonomous political entity that will replace the 24year old ARMM by June 30, 2016.

Records of the Regional Board of Investments show that investments in the ARMM rose from P569 million in 2012 to P1.463 billion in 2013 and officials expect more in the run-up to the Bangsamoro.

Before the ARMM bows out in favor of the B a n g s a m o r o, r e g i o n a l officials hope that the poverty incidence, recorded at 48.7 in 2012 is lowered to 40; that the labor force participation increases from 55.5% in 2011 to 70%.

In her presentation on “ARMM’s D e velopment Direction and Major Programs and Projects” at the 2nd ARMM LGU Summit at the Waterfront Insular more/PAGE 7

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Philippine schools to follow international school calendar Rowena Rosauro Tigoy Elementary School Principal I Anonang Elementary School Aurora East District Division of Zamboanga del Sur

Philippine schools used to follow June-March school calendar. It was never changed for years, even once. However, 2014 might be a year that would change this traditional system.

No.: 09161714813 (GLOBE)

It b e g a n r i g ht a f t e r Cavite Representative Lani Mercado-Revilla filed a proposed law, changing this s cho ol calendar to S e p t e m b e r- May. T h e re are ac tua l ly fe w b efore her who filed the same bill years before but failed to convince the majority.

Once this bill would finally acquire approval, all schools in all levels, public and private alike, shall implement it.

T h e c o u n t r y ’s t o p universities have supported this bill. These universities include University of the

Philippines (UP), Ateneo d e M a n i l a Un i v e r s i t y (AdMU), D e L a Salle University (DLSU) and University of Santo Tomas (UST).

In f ac t , re ce nt ne ws re ve a le d t hat Adams on University will be following international school system for the next school ye ar. Most u n ive rs it ies outside Philippines begin the school year in August, S eptember, or October, while the Philippines has stuck to its June-March calendar.

Philippines is also

sole countr y composing Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) which follow June-March school calendar. Through changing it, students will be in sync along with the students of neighboring countries such giving favor for exchange student programs.

T h i s b i l l i s c r e at e d because of rainy season during June to September.

Mentioned top universities, for example, rounds University Circle which s u f f e r s h e av y f l o o d i n g during these months.

Therefore, changing school calendar would practically ease their difficulties.

There are some opposing this bill. There re a s on i s t h at s h i f t i n g school calendar is not a solution to flooding since du e to cl i m ate ch ange, cold weather is possible to visit the country anytime of the year.

In a d d it i on , p are nt s would rather opt June as period of opening of classes.

In a study of Department of Education, less number of regions around the countr y consist parents w ho ag re e i n ch ang i ng of school calendar. Most of them would still like to spend time with their family during summer which falls on months of April and May. There are also festivities in summer m ont hs w h e re f am i l i e s could go out together.

In a l l de cisions t hat should be made, two sides rest: reasons of those who favored it and of thos e w h o are ag ai ns t it . A l l people and organizations i nv o l v e d s h o u l d c h e c k both sides before arriving to a conclusion. Let us all remember that anything concluded would not just affect educational system in t his era but as wel l, educational system of coming generations.

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Nutri-Asia sees exports doubling in 5 years PHILIPPINE-based food company Nutri-Asia Inc. (NAI), one of the first local companies to go global, expects to double its exports in the next five years and maintain its position as one of the leading condiments exporters in the country.

The growth in exports will come from the Middle East and North America, which both host large numbers of Filipinos. In 2013, NAI exports rose by 20 percent over 2012 levels. “We are well on track against our targets to double the business,” said Richard Rebollido, the company’s international business manager.

Nutri-Asia produces the popular brands Datu Puti, UFC, Mang Tomas, Jufran and Papa, Golden Fiesta and Hapi Fiesta for products like vinegar, soy sauce, spaghetti and lechon sauces, cooking oil, banana catsup, among others.

Most of these products comprise the core of its export business, but the company’s lineup now also includes sweet preserves and Asian noodles.

The company’s exports have grown steadily since its first shipment in 1991. But in the past four years, sales became more brisk as mainstream stores in the United States, Canada and in the Middle East started to carry its products, Rebollido added.

Nutri-Asia products can now be found on the shelves of Safeway, Wal-Mart and Albertsons in the US; and Sobey’s and Loblaws in Canada; Tesco in the UK; and Carrefour and Hyper Panda and Lulu’s in the Middle East.

Its other export markets also include Asia-Pacific countries with a big overseas Filipino population such as Taiwan, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei, Australia, New Zealand and Micronesia. In Europe, it exports to Austria, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Norway, Spain and Sweden, among others.

The Middle East, which hosts about 2.4 million OFWs, has shown strong numbers with export values up by 40 percent in 2013 compared to the year-ago level.

Nutri-Asia is also boosting its presence in the US where it recently re-launched certain product lines such as sauces in promotional events like adobo festivals and sampling activities.

In the Philippines, the company has carved a niche in the condiments and sauces market. It is the first and only branded local condiments company that is certified by global institutions for its compliance with systems and best practices that make sure its products are safe and clean.

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Aboitiz exits shipping business

THE Aboitiz Group has completed its exit from the shipping business, selling its interests in joint ventures with the Jebsen Group of Norway, a regulatory filing showed.

Aboitiz Equity Ventures In c ( A EV ) v a lu e d t h e conglomerate’s stakes in the firms collectively known as the Abojeb Group at $8.3 million. “ T h e d i v e s t m e nt of interest in the Abojeb Group

is part of AEV’s strategy to focus on its identified core businesses such as power generation and distribution, financial services, food and real estate and infrastructure,” the Cebu-based listed firm aboitiz/PAGE 7

MISAMIS ORIENTAL – Vice Governor Joey G. Pelaez turned over to Maanas Elementary School, Medina, Misamis Oriental, construction materials last January 8, 2014. He is accompanied by former Board Member Jigjag G. Pelaez.

The materials donated will be used to construct pathways inside the school premises.

ROTARY CLUB OF CAGAYAN DE ORO RI DISTRICT 3870 Meeting at Seda Hotel, Executive Club Lounge, 11th floor every Thursday

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DA-10 seeks CSOs support on the 2015 proposed budget C Ag AyA n De OrO City -- in order to improve the proposed plan and budget for the agriculture sector in region 10 for the year 2015, the Department of Agriculture-10 (DA-10) solicited comments, recommendations and feedback from the private sector represented by the Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and Provincial Agriculture and Fishery Councils (PAFCs).

With a total proposed budget of P1.6 B for 2015, the DA-10 will center its aim in the attainment of food staples sufficiency, boost farm productivity and competitiveness and develop climate-resilient agri-fishery technologies and infrastructure.

Relative to the government’s thrusts on agricultural development, the DA will implement programs and projects that will provide support to production, extension, education and information, irrigation, postharvest and mechanization, market development and farmto-market roads among the agriculture production key players.

The 2015 proposed budget which will be divided for the development of the region’s major

commodities such as rice, corn, high value crops and livestock is 27% more than the 2014 approved budget of over P1.2 B. This is also exclusive of the budget allocated for the implementation of the projects under the Grassroots Participatory Budgeting Program (GPBP) formerly known as Bottoms-up-Budgeting – Local Poverty Reduction Action Program (BuBLPRAP) and the Payapang at Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA) Program.

With the proposed budget endorsed, CSOs look for ward that the performance of agriculture in terms of value of production will also improve, proportionate to the budget increase in order for the agriculture sector to be ready for the implementation of the free trade agreement between ASEAN nations in 2015.

The consultation with agricultural stakeholders and development partners is in line with the government’s principles of transparency, accountability, integrity, partnership, mutual empowerment, sustainability, respect for internal processes and national interest. # (VANESSA MAE S. SIANO, DA-RAFID 10)

DA-10 Regional Technical Director for Research and Regulatory Constancio C. Maghanoy, Jr. (top middle), acknowledges the importance of the CSOs inputs to enhance the regional plan which will be the basis for the implementation of the programs and projects for agriculture sector development and their endorsement of the 2015 proposed budget. Professor Edgardo P. Layug (top left), Chair of the Regional Agriculture and Fishery Council suggests for the DA to look into the possibility of allocating 2-5% of its total budget for the beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) that are engaged in agriculture production, on top of the budget allocated for the implementation of the Grassroots Participatory Budgeting Program (GPBP) in the coming years. Meanwhile, Lourdes P. Rudinas (top right), OIC DA-10 Planning Division reveals that the there is an on-going effort between DA-10 and DSWD-10 in addressing the concern on poverty reduction by providing interventions in locations where there are 4Ps beneficiaries.

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What’s Lacking in PNoy’s Economic Policies?

L

IFE’S INSPIRATIONS: “…Though you already know all this, I want to remind you that Jesus at one time delivered his people out of Egypt, but later destroyed those who did not believe…” (Jude 1:5, the Holy Bible).

-ooo WHAT’S LACKING IN PNOY’S ECONOMIC POLICIES? If news reports saying President Aquino prayed for God’s guidance in last Tuesday’s Cabinet meeting are true, then he is on the road to fully answering his question, headlined by media, about what went wrong with his government’s successful thrust towards a strong economy since 12.1 million Filipinos still remain unemployed at present.

Indeed, while many may say that God has nothing to do with poverty and economic deprivation of a people, it is a great folly for leaders, in particular, and the people in general, to ignore the connection, as it were, between economic success and true spirituality or sincere faith in God. Just imagine: our government has already poured trillions and trillions of pesos since time immemorial to push economic development for the nation, and yet a vast majority remain poor and destitute, while only a select few are getting fabulously rich. This shows that there is something terribly lacking in the economic policies of our leaders, past and present, which must be addressed.

Unfortunately, almost all of them do not even think about this.

-ooo WHO REALLY GIVES ECONOMIC SUCCESS? This “missing” connection is shown by various verses from the Christian Bible. Let us see some of these verses here today, and do some meditation on them. First off, we must all understand that it is God who gives man the ability to acquire wealth. This is found in Deuteronomy 8:18, which says in part: “… remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth…”

Then, we must realize that God established clear rules on how we can produce wealth, achieve success and prosperity, and be provided with all that we need, including good health.

In Joshua 1:8, it is said: “Do not forget to read the Book of the Law, meditate on it day and night, and carefully obey

The Very Best THINK

hink a minute…What’s the difference between the A Minute best and second best? Between

By Jhan Tiafau Hurst average and excellent? The difference between a good sports team and a great one?

It’s the hard work, training and discipline. You can only get out of something what you put into it. “The enemy of the best is second best.” Successful people sweat the small stuff and work hard at the details. That’s what makes them successful.

But many of us just can’t be bothered to do our very best work. We look for shortcuts and the easier way to do things. Our problem is we just want to “get by” with work that is acceptable, but not work that is our very best.

There’s a story about a builder who went on a trip overseas, so he put his manager in charge of building a new house. He told his manager to use only the best materials and not to take any shortcuts to save money or time. The boss wanted this new house to be excellent and the very best. After the boss left, however, his manager did not follow those instructions.

Instead he cheated and kept his boss’ money for himself. He used the cheapest, junk building materials. He did everything the cheap, easy way, thinking his boss would never know.

After his boss returned and saw the new house, he told his manager: “Only you and your family deserve to live in this beautiful house. I’m giving this house to you! It’s your new home!”

So how about you? Are you doing your very best in life?

At your job? At home? At school? Are you working hard to be the best father and husband you can be? Are you trying to be the best mother and wife you can be? Remember, God gave us His very best: His one and only Son, Jesus Christ. So He hopes that we will give back to Him our very best—not just our second best. Does he deserve anything less? After all, He created you to enjoy His very best. So why not ask Jesus Christ to forgive you for not living the way you know you should.

Then ask Him to take charge of your character and give you His help. Then you can start disciplining yourself to always be your best, and never again have to settle for second best.

Just Think a Minute…

everything that is written in it. Then you will be successful ak ampi Mo A ng Batas and prosperous.”

By Atty. Batas Mauricio In Proverbs 3:1-2, we are told: “My son, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart, for they will prolong your life many years, and bring you peace and prosperity.” In Matthew 6:33, Jesus Christ, our God and Savior, tells us: “seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all that you need shall be given to you as well.”

-ooo ECONOMIC DESTRUCTION AND LACK OF SPIRITUALITY: A good economic policy, one in which the entire nation will benefit from, must therefore take into account, and consider the implementation of, these Biblical and spiritual principles. Because there was no clear and sincere attempt to incorporate spirituality in what our past and present presidents have been doing, nobody among them has succeeded in eliminating or, at least alleviating, poverty.

And this has given rise to a heightened economic deprivation among our people. This sorry state of poverty is even predicted to happen in many parts of the Bible, like Deuteronomy 28:20. And in Deuteronomy 8:19-20, there is a promise of destruction for those who will forget God. This verse says: “If you ever forget the Lord your God and follow other gods and worship and bow down to them, I testify against you today that you will surely be destroyed.

Like the nations the Lord destroyed before you, so you will be destroyed for not obeying the Lord your God.” -ooo REACTIONS? Please call me at 0917 984 24 68, 0918 574 0193, 0922 833 43 96. Email: melaniolazomauriciojr@outlook. com, batasmauricio@yahoo.com and mmauriciojr111@ gmail.com.

K

Counting You Blessings, Be Led to God

Philippine Press Institute

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O

h, the famous line of Christ: “A prophet is not without honor except in his native place and among his own kin and in his own house.” He said this in one of those occasions that he was disappointed with the reaction of the people-this time his own townmates-to what he said and did.

In spite of being initially astonished by what he said and the manner with which he spoke, his own people took offense at him instead. They found him too much for them, he who was supposed to be just like them.

“Is he not the carpenter, the son of Mary, and the brother of James and Joseph and Judas and Simon?

And are not his sisters here with us?” they asked in disturbing disbelief.

It’s a sad phenomenon that continues to happen up to now. We can take God for granted-God who comes to us, who makes himself like us, who even assumes our own faults, but who also comes to help us, purify and redeem us.

He actually intervenes in our life all the time. He is inside us and around us. He is in everyone and in everything, both big and small. He is in the ordinary and extraordinary things, the regular and special events in our life.

We have to be more aware of this predicament and start to do something about it. In fact, given the way we are at the moment, we need to do something about it in a more serious and systematic way. Away with a casual attitude toward this issue!

We should not be surprised that we have the great tendency to take God for granted. That’s because we have our own limitations and imperfections that are aggravated by our sins that, in turn, if not corrected can harden into vices-blinding, desensitizing vices.

With that predicament, it is not surprising that we can be so full of ourselves, so smug that we cannot anymore relate ourselves to others whom we can see, and much less to God whom we do not see.

Yes, we can still relate ourselves to others, but this time treating them not anymore as persons but more as objects and instruments to be used according to our own self-serving game plans.

Yes, we can also still relate ourselves to God, but this time treating him more as some ornament or prop to support a certain image that we can still find useful in

some self-serving way at the moment. and Traces We n e e d t o n o u r i s h By Fr. Roy Cimagala our faith such that we can recognize God in everything, even in the most ordinary and insignificant events of the day. We should see to it that it is God with whom we should be most excited to be with, and not any other motive.

For this, we have to remind ourselves of the many reasons why we ought to be always in awe at God. We should not take them for granted, which is what we usually do.

We have to learn to count our many blessings and make them our immediate paths to bring us to God. They are effective and tremendous means to keep us in touch with God and lead us to think of God and to participate actively in his providence over us.

That we are still alive, that we are relatively healthy, that there is still air to breathe, food to eat, water to drink, that our planet still works in spite of some calamitiesthese are some blessings that we often take for granted but which are actually strong reasons why we have to be excited and most thankful to God. If we just give a pause to consider them slowly once again, savoring their deeper significance, they can open our eyes and heart to the wonderful world of our faith, of encountering the living Christ in the midst of the ordinary events and circumstances of our life.

We obviously need to be humble to be able to do this. Our tendency is to allow ourselves to be ruled only by our feelings, worldly estimation of things, the prudence of the world that often cannot penetrate the spiritual and supernatural realities breathing in our midst. Our tendency is to deaden our spirit or to let it be dominated by the flesh.

With humility, we activate our faith, releasing our mind and heart from the grip of passing mundane realities, and leading us to count our blessings, since these bring us to the essential, the ultimate, the eternal-that is, to God.

HINTS

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Growth... from page 1

the Philippine economy, particularly the industry sector, is in a very good position to take advantage of wider export markets, as the government continues to implement reforms to reduce the cost of doing business in the country,” he noted.

He said the rest of the world and even developed nations and the country’s trading partners are recovering and “should be positive thing for us.”

On the supply side, Balisacan expects the industry sector, particularly manufacturing, to sustain its growth momentum it has displayed in the last two years.

He stressed that while the manufacturing as of now is a relatively small part of the overall economy, the government is gearing its efforts to grow the sector fast.

“Because that’s a sector that generates high quality jobs... The industrial sector, the manufacturing segment, is now growing faster than the rest of the economy that its share in the overall economic pie will increase,” he added.

Balisacan further said consumption and investments will also continue to drive economic growth this year. -- Danielle Venz, PHILEXPORT News and Features

More... from page 1

Hotel on Tuesday, (February 11), Executive Secretary Laisa Alamia reported on the increased confidence by investors in the ARMM, locally and internationally.

She said new air and shipping routes are being opened such as direct flights from Manila, Davao and General Santos cities to Tawitawi without connecting through Zamboanga City, as is the case at present, as well as flights connecting Bongao in Tawi-tawi with Sandakan in Malaysia; and a shipping route connecting Parang in Maguindanao with Isabela City in Basilan, and Lamitan to Jolo in Sulu and Bongao in Tawi-tawi.

ARMM Executive Secretary Laisa Alamia reports on the increase of confidence by investors in ARMM during an LGU summit at Waterfront Insular Hotel on February 11, 2014.

MindaNews photo by Toto Lozano Alamia told the gathering of the ARMM’s five governors, 116 town mayors and two city mayors, legislators and other regional officials, that many are investing in banana plantations, trading with Sabah in Malaysia, mining and real estate.

The infusion of a billion pesos in investments registered with the RBOI in 2013, came from four firms with a mining firm topping the list: the Al Tawitawi Nickel Coporation which posted P707 million worth of investments for its nickel mining in Tawi-tawi.

This year, according to a press release from the RBOI last month, they expect two more nickel firms that will invest in Tawi-tawi.

It also quoted RBOI chief Ishak Mastura as saying that he foresees at least eight or more firms registering in 2014 to avail of fiscal and non-fiscal incentives.

Mastura explained that while the rate of registration in the RBOI is low compared with what the BOI in Manila experiences at any given year, for ARMM “it is already a veritable rush of registration of investments now that the region is set on a

trajectory of high growth brought about by the stability engendered by the Mindanao peace process.”

The RBOI press release said ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman “has set a strict policy that mining firms being an extractive industry, cannot avail of fiscal incentives from RBOI as their taxes are needed by the region for its development.”

Alamia acknowledged six major development challenges facing the ARMM: recurring peace and security issues, high incidence of poverty, weak revenue generating measures and low investments, poor access to basic social services, inadequate infra support facilities, and environmental degradation and vulnerability to climate change.

But Alamia noted there are three major development initiatives being undertaken in the transition from the ARMM to the Bangsamoro: the reforms in the ARMM which have “overwhelming support from national governance” particularly on governance, peace and security and socio-economic development; the ongoing peace process between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and the review on the implementation of the 1996 Final Peace Agreement with the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF); and the growing economy and investment prospects.

The theme of the two-day Summit that started February 11 is “Strengthening Regional Stakeholders’ Partnership towards Revitalized ARMM in Transition to Bangsamoro.”

The ARMM will be deemed abolished as soon as the Bangsamoro Basic Law drafted by the Bangsamoro Transition Commission is passed by Congress and ratified by residents in the proposed core areas. The Bangsamoro Transition Authority (BTA) will then take over the functions of the ARMM and govern the area through a ministerial form of governance.

Elected ARMM officials Governor Hataman, his vice governor Haroun Alrashid Lucman and 24 members of the Regional Legislative Assembly, campaigned for their respective posts in 2013 aware that their supposed three-year term would be cut short when the BBL is ratified and the BTA takes over, as mandated by the October 15, 2012 Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro between the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

Hataman in his opening remarks at the Summit on Tuesday monring, said he was certain that President Aquino, who would speak Wednesday morning, would urge them to support the peace process. “Mainitin nating salubungin ang Bangsamoro” (let us warmly welcome the Bangsamoro), Hataman said.

Alamia presented the ARMM vision then and the “revitalized” vision now, that by 2015, “the reformed ARMM is prepared to transition to the new Bangsamoro entity, having empowered people and communities encouraged by responsive government propelled by improved systems and processes of governance anchored on pro-people, transparent and accountable leadership.”

ARMM, which has been repeatedly dubbed as a “failed experiment,” comprises Maguindanao, Lanao del Sur and the island provinces of Basilan, Sulu and Tawi-tawi and the cities

7

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of Marawi in Lanao del Sur and Lamitan in Basilan.

The ARMM areas are part of the proposed core territory of the Bangsamoro.

Alamia presented a slide from the ARMM’s Regional Development Plan Midterm Update, 2014-2016, showing how the region envisions the “functional roles” of the ARMM provinces and cities as follows: Marawi City as “Center of Islamic and Western Education” and “Tourism Destination” and Lanao del Sur as “Center of Rice, Corn and Light Industries;” Maguindanao’s Parang and its allied municipalities as the “Center of Banana and Oil Palm production” and “Regional Agri-industrial Center and Tourist destination;” Basilan’s Local Centers and Lamitan City as “Center of Commercial Crops;” Tawi – Tawi’s Bongao as “Seaweeds Capital of Mindanao” and “Tourism Destination;” and Sulu’s Metro Jolo as “Center of Exotic Fruits.”

Mindanao Development Authority’s Executive Secretary Janet Lopoz, who spoke before Alamia, said the developments in the peace process are positive gains for the ARMM. “There’s so much potential now. There is strong business confidence,” she stressed.

“Everyone’s looking forward to the new political entity,” Lopoz added.

Power...

from page 1 host communities but also the general populace in the province.”

Dubbed Manolo Fortich 1 and 2 Hydroelectric Power Projects, the ventures will use run-of-river scheme and tap surface water from Tanaon, Amusig, and Guihean Rivers, all tributaries to Tagoloan River.

The Manolo Fortich Hydro 1 will generate 35.2 MW and the Manolo Fortich Hydro 2 16.4 MW. The resolution was not clear on how much the host communities will receive except to say that Hedcor, a subsidiary of Aboitiz Power, will share “part of its gross income… pursuant to the Renewable Energy Act of 2008 and other existing laws.”

The projects will affect seven IP communities — Santiago Tribal Community Inc., Higaonon Tribal Communities, Maluko Tribal Council, Bukidnon Tribal Community, Amosignon-Higaonon Tribal Organization, Nalandangan Tribal Datu Association Inc., and Apo Datu Namikunan Association Inc. The SP passed a separate resolution certifying they have no objection to the firm’s water rights application before the National Water Rights Board (NWRB) to tap water in the three rivers, which are in Manolo Fortich and Impasugong towns.

NWRB requires the SP to post water permit applications on its bulletin board to know if there would be objections before permits may be granted.

Hedcor has complied with all legal requirements thus the endorsement, according to SP member Clive Quiño, chair of the committee on public utilities.

This after board member Roelito Gawilan, a leader of the Matigsalug tribe, reminded the board of the need to balance its power and that of the indigenous peoples.

“The IPs have the sole power to grant permit for natural resources within its ancestral domain,” he added.

Carl Binayao, community

affairs officer of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP)-Bukidnon, said via SMS Tuesday the firm complied with the requirements for the free and prior informed consent (FPIC).

He said the certificate of pre-condition for the FPIC was still pending before the NCIP regional review team.

Gregorio Jabonillo, Hedcor’s vice president for business development said the two plants are expected to fill about 35 percent of the power shortage in Mindanao in 2016.

The National Grid Corporation of the Philippines, he added, estimated the shortage at about 150 MW.

Aboitiz... from page 3

said.

Jebsen Invest AS, AEV’s longtime partner in the Abojeb Group, will continue to partner with Aboitiz family members in their personal capacities.

AEV sold all its holdings in Aboitiz Jebsen Company Inc, Aboitiz Jebsen Manpower Solutions Inc, and Jebsens Maritime Inc to PTC Holdings Corp, Behike Holdings Inc, Valdicava Holdings Inc, Jebsen Invest and Furunes Holdings Inc. The sale also includes AEV’s interests in Abojeb Group subsidiaries such as Starbulk Aboitiz Jebsen Crew Management Philippines Inc, Filscan Shipping Inc,

General Charterer Ocean Shipping Inc, Selandia Crew Management, Olympic Jebsen Offshore Inc, and Viking International Carriers Inc, all of which are engaged in recruitment, ship manning and related businesses.

In 2010, the Aboitiz family sold its entire 93.2 percent stake in Aboitiz Transport System Corp (ATS), then the Philippines’ biggest ship operator, for P4.6 billion to Negros Navigation Co. Excluded from that transaction were the joint venture companies of ATS with the Jebsen Group.

For this year, AEV is earmarking P88 billion for its capital expenditures, higher than the budgeted capex of P59 billion in 2013.

MES TEACHERS’ FEEDING PROGRAM CORAZON Z. BARTOCES, HT III Midkiwan Elementary School Southwest District II Division of Cagayan de Oro City

Midkiwan Elementar y School is among the many schools in Cagayan de Oro City which are recipients of the BLT feeding program.

But only a few pupils of the total school populace are the recipients of this.

So, as a way of giving-back the graces that God has given them, the Midkiwan Elementary School teachers sponsor a feeding program every Friday to all the pupils of the school where pupils are given a cupful of food prepared and cooked by the parents.

Menu varies every Friday.

From the smiles of the pupils, one can see that they are very

grateful to their teachers for feeding them once in every week.

Indeed, this feeding

program inspires the pupils to do good in class and go to school everyday especially on Friday.

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Platon leads MisOr Masonic Lodge No. 335

By CHENG ORDOÑEZ, Associate Editor

“LET us not forget that Freemansonry is many things, but most of all – Freemansonry is kindness in the home, honesty in business, courtesy in society, fairness in work, pity and concern for the unfortunate, resistance toward evil, help for the weak, forgiveness for the penitent, love for one another and, above all, reverence and love for the Great Architect of the Universe.

Freemansory is a way of life.”

This is the inaugural address imparted to his bret hren by t he ne w ly installed Worshipful Master of Misamis Oriental Lodge No. 335 for the Masonic Year 2014, Julius Ceasar Platon, during the installation of officers, held Saturday, February 8, 2014, at the Mag u i nd an a o Ma s on i c

Temple, along CapistranoPacana Sts., Cagayan de Oro City.

The occasion was graced by no less than Agila Shriner of Mindanao Potentate Peter U. Lim Lo Suy, who assumes the highest and esteemed position, along with other officers during

AGILA SHRINER of Mindanao Potentate Peter U. Lim Lo Suy poses for posterity with the new set of officers of Misamis Oriental Lodge 335, now being led by MW Dr. Julius Ceasar Platon for the Masonic Year 2014, during the installation of officers Saturday, Febuary 8, 2014, at the Maguindanao Masonic Temple, Cagayan de Oro City.

PLATON/Page 2

photo by lavie casenas

The Five Languages of Love

By DEBBIE CABAGUE, Contributor

“Love is something you do for someone else, not something you do for yourself.” ~ Gary Chapman

T

he official love month of the year is here or shall I say it’s only days away for the V-day. Red roses, chocolates, candle light dinner and of course love songs to fill the air to make our valentines with our special someone or love ones really great.

This is the usual scenario right? But what if this is not what makes your love ones really feel loved? Is this possible?

Yes, because each one of us has a different love language and if we are not aware of it or we do not know others’ love language then we can possibly feel not loved. So just to give you a glimpse of these love languages, here’s a brief explanation of the Five languages of love by Gary Chapman.

1. Words of Affirmation - You love compliments. Words speak louder than actions. Hearing the words “ I love you “ really means a lot to you , while insults can shatter and leave you broken for a long time.

2. Quality Time - You like undivided attention. I love you means spend time with me. You like quality conversation as you reveal yourself to another person.

3. Gifts - Not because this is your love language you are already

materialistic, you actually thrive to love and the thoughtfulness behind every gift and effort. For you the cost of the gift may not matter at all.

4. Acts of Service - Can washing the dishes be an act of love?

Absolutely.

Anything you do to ease the burden of responsibilities weighing on an “acts of service” person will speak volumes.

You just like to serve your partner even in the simplest ways.

5. Physical Touch - This doesn’t all mean bedroom. A person whose primary love language is touch is not surprisingly touchy. Hug, pats on the back, holding hands can all be ways of showing care , concern and love .

Before you discover the love language of your partner, discover yours first by taking a Love language test. Google it and you’ll find many so just choose one.

Knowing your love language and understanding the love language of your partner and love ones can really help your relationship as it has helped me.

If you want to make this love month more meaningful to your love ones, they will surely feel loved if you speak their love language.

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6th Cinema Rehiyon:

What Visayas has to offer

by ALTHEA DIANNE FELIx

It keeps getting better and that’s what the 6th Cinema Rehiyon is going to do on February 1822 under the banner of Xavier University’s Xavier Center for Culture and the Arts (XCCA) where the films from Visayas will dominate the second-day screening of the festival—Feb 20, to be exact.

From the Visayas, 21 films, under 5 various programs, will be offered to the moviegoers. these programs were categorized according to regions.

Cinema Rehiyon is a flagship program of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) in celebration of February as the National Arts Month (NAM). the festival is one of the few events seeking to empower the Filipinos with stories and voices from their own region—a detour from the escapist films offered by the mainstream line.

Ambitions, zombies And music From Sine Sais (Region 6), Bacolod has three films and one from Antique to be shown at SM City Cagayan de Oro Cinema 3, 10-11:30a.m.

“Kwerdas” by Sammy Rubido, the sole film from Antique is about the inseparable siblings—Oday and toto— who love music. then toto got into trouble and in order for him to be saved from their father’s anger, Oday must abandon the instrument that is responsible for her love of music. Will she succumb in obeying the family patriarch or choose what makes her happy?

Joining “Kwerdas” in the list are the Bacolod films, “sa mata sang bata” by Abigail Uychiat, “zompranings” by Poli

Gonzales and Leo Aguirree, and “Rb” (Rugby Boys) by Manny Montelibano.

Uychiat’s film is about a dancer who is trapped in a world of chaos, lost in fear and anxiety where the performer has to choose if she wants to live her ambitions or succumb in terror. “zompranings,” on the other hand, is a story about two guys who were trapped inside a room, caught in a “zombie holocaust” while “Rb” is a tale about a mentally-ill mother who is trying to find her lost son and during her search she discovered an abandoned building occupied by rugby boys. the ‘emotionAl dog’ Moving on to Sine 7 (Region 7), there are 9 films to air at the same cinema, from 11:30a.m. to 2:30p.m. the lineup includes “lamat”

by Peter Arthur Shafer from Bohol and films from Cebu—“unod” by George Macapagal, “happy Ang emo nga iro” by Aldo Nelbert Banaynal, “death squad” by Jose Basa and “inatay” by Chloe Veloso. “lamat” is a story of Dina, a working student, who found out—with Lara and Josie— that their mutual friend was murdered in her room. the accident has emerged personal problems within the tight-knit group, slowly deteriorating their friendship in the process. “happy Ang emo nga iro”

is a tale about a dog’s daily challenges through a series of ill-fated events as he searches for the true meaning of happiness in the family who adopted him. “inatay” is the third film of Veloso and it is about a story of Elvis (who is known by everyone as Elvira), a beautician who learned that he has fathered a baby boy and now, he faces the challenges of being a single parent.

Moreover, Dumaguete has 2 films and Iloilo has 3 to offer for this year’s Cinema Rehiyon. “swim for others,” a documentary film by Carmen del Prado and the other one, “ugma na lang” were shot in Dumaguete and those from Iloilo are “Kapawa: the mystery of light” by Noel de Leon, “luna”

by Frances Lacuesta and “the Wish” by Regie Regiane. sine 8 Under the Sine Otso (Region 8) are two short films from Samar and Leyte, which will be shown at the same cinema, 2:30-3:10p.m. these films are “dalagan bats” by Jigjig Perry Amoylen and “si William at Ang engkantada”

by Christian Malabon. music And mAyhem For this year’s Cinema Rehiyon, Visayas has 4 fulllength films to offer, airing at SM City Cinema 4, from 10a.m. to 6p.m.

there are two films from Cebu, one from Bacolod and another one from Iloilo. “sonata” by Peque Gallaga from Bacolod will kick start the screening and to be followed by “iskalawags” by Keith Deligero from Cebu, “salvi: Ang PAgpadayon” by t.M. Malones and “domingo domingo” by Chloe Veloso, Nicko Real. “iskalawags” is a story of seven young punks who call their gang with the title itself because of their shared love for action movies. they decided to go on a little adventure where they search for a tree, led by Palot, the leader of the group.

Lastly, as part of the segment, CineMulat Visayas, “b. niyaang b. niyaan” by Russ Ligtas will be shown at Xavier University Little theater (XULt) on Feb 20, 5-6p.m. this film from Cebu is the sole entry for the CineMulat of the second-day screening.

Cinemulat is the part of the festival where controversial movies are being shown.

Moviegoers are only required to bring personal care items such as soap, toothpaste and toothbrush, sanitary napkins or infant diapers for the admission to the screening venues.

For more information about the 6th Cinema Rehiyon, you may visit www.cinemarehiyon.com.

Platon... from Page 1

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the installation of officers for the Shrine Year 2014, last January 25, at the Emerald Ballroom of the posh Limketkai Luxe Hotel.

Installed with WM Platon were Gary Booc for the position of Senior Warden and William Padilla as Junior Warden.

Sixteen other officers were also installed into their respective offices, including MisOr Lodge No. 335 Past President Ferdinand Bernasor, who now assumes as Tyler.

The other officers include Reagan Abbu – Treasurer, Ian Giovanni Pabillaran – Secretary, Eugene Unabia – Auditor, Alex Wong, Jr. – Marshall, Ludito Lumamba – Chaplain, Jsime Cruz, Jr. – Senior Deacon, Vicor Francis Salcedo – Junior Deacon, Jed Lasmarias – Senior Steward, Rene Troy Barrientos – Junior Steward, Dennis Medalle – Orator, Alden Sambaan – Almoner, Ryan Pabellan – Organist, Isidro Butaslac, Jr. and Robert Cruz – Lecturers and Leonardo Arcol – Harmony Officer, who was also the installing officer.

The theme in last Saturday’s installation was “Strengthening Misamis Oriental Lodge No. 335 Road M.A.P. (Meet, Act, Part).”

“Today, in running business or government for that matter,

roadmaps are necessary. But, roadmaps, which are called by some other names like “strategic plans” are not enough. We need our Masonic compasses for it will unerringly point you towards the direction you need to go as you navigate in this uncertain world that keeps on transforming,” Dr. Platon said.

WM Platon, who is a graduate of Doctor in Veterinary Medicine, is married to Rachel Guinitaran and blessed with two daughters, Viane and Bea. He was initiated on September 8, 2007, passed to the degree of Fellowcraft on October 25, 2007, and raised to the sublime degree of Master Mason on November 10, 2007.

Senior Warden Booc was initiated on April 9, 2008, passed the degree of fellowcraft on MayCAGAYAN 10, 2008, and BRANCH raised to DE ORO MAIN P & J Lim Bldg., Tiano Brothers the sublime degree of Master Kalambagohan Sts., Tel. # (08822) 727-829 * Mason Telefax on May 31, 2008. # (088) 856-1947 Junior Warden CAMIGUIN BRANCH Padilla Aranas St., Poblacion, Mambajao, wasB. Camiguin initiated February 14, Tel. #on (088) 387-0491 2009, passed to the degree CORRALES BRANCH Corrales Ave., Cagayan Oro City 14, of Fellowcraft on deMarch DIVISORIA BRANCH 2009, and raised to the sublime Atty. Erasmo B. Damasing Bldg., #61 Don A. Velez CagayanMason de Oro City degree ofTel.St., Master on April # (088) 857-3631 28, 2009.LAPASAN BRANCH Lapasan Hi-way, Cagayan de Oro City The installation was followed Tel. # (088) 231-6739 by a Fellowship: Cocktail-Dinner, CARMEN BRANCH at the Grand Caprice Restaurant Vamenta Blvd., Cagayan de Oro City Tel. # (088) 231-2011 at Limketkai Center.

Republic of the Philippines LOCAL CIVIL REGIStRY OFFICE PROVINCE OF MISAMIS ORIENtAL CAGAYAN DE ORO CItY NOTICE FOR PUBLICATION In compliance with Section 5 of R.A. No. 9048, a NOtICE is hereby served to the public that JOLLA MAE O. SANTOS has filed with this Office a petition for the change of first name from KURT ELY to CLARITO III in the Certificate of Live Birth of KURT ELY OCAYA SANTOS who was born on September 23, 2010 in CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY and whose parents are CLARITO JR. APALE SANTOS and JOLLA MAE CARTAGENA OCAYA. Any person adversely affected by said petition may file his written opposition with this Office not later than January 16, 2014.

(Sgd.) NORMA S. DIPUTADO City Civil Registrar BWM: Feb.7&14, 2014

CDO MAIN BRANCH P & J Lim Bldg., Tiano Brothers Kalambagohan Sts., Tel. # (08822) 727-829 * Telefax # (088) 856-1947

DIVISORIA BRANCH Atty. Erasmo B. Damasing Bldg., #61 Don A. Velez St., Cagayan de Oro City Tel. # (088) 857-3631

CAMIGUIN BRANCH B. Aranas St., Poblacion, Mambajao, Camiguin Tel. # (088) 387-0491

LAPASAN BRANCH Lapasan Hi-way, Cagayan de Oro City Tel. # (088) 231-6739

CORRALES BRANCH Corrales Ave., Cagayan de Oro City

CARMEN BRANCH Vamenta Blvd.,Cagayan de Oro City Tel. # (088) 231-2011

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DOT, Wild Bird Club to host 9th PHL Bird Festival and 1st Ecotourism Fair

T

he Wild Bird Club of the Philippines (WBCP), in partnership with the Department of Tourism – IX (DOT 9), will be hosting the 9th Philippine Bird Festival (PBF) on February 28 to March 01, 2014 at Paseo del Mar, Zamboanga City with the theme “Pajaros: Bula Sin Miedo, Sin Lingasa” (Birds: Fly without fear, without worries).

The PBF is an annual event organized by the WBCP, participated in by its members from all over the country and members of the other wild bird clubs in the ASEAN region.

The festival will be an opportunity to promote birding in Zamboanga City,

to raise awareness on the importance of preservation and protection of different bird species found in the city and to drum up positive activities geared towards improving the image of the city, especially to international birding enthusiasts who are regular delegates to the Philippine Bird Festival.

It also aims to promote the Pasonanca Natural Park, classified as an Important Bird Area (IBA) and featured in the second volume of the book “Birdwatching in the Philippines”, the Zamboanga State College of Marine Science and Technology (ZSCMST) fish pond, Mt. Baluno, Intake Watershed, Bog Lake in Calarian and

Guardia National road as birding destinations.

The two-day festival will include a series of lectures, a photo exhibit of the flora and fauna of the city, booth exhibit and floats, bird watching trips, various competitions for students, city tours and cultural performances.

DOT 9 is the lead agency in collaboration with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), City Government of Zamboanga, ZSCMST, Western Mindanao State University (WMSU), Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Department of Education (DepEd) and other agencies.

The event will also coin-

cide with the staging of the 1st Ecotourism Fair which will showcase an exhibit of various ecotourism destinations around the country.

DOT 9’s Regional Director, Mary June G. Bugante, invites local birders, conservation organizations, national government agencies’ regional offices, students and residents of Zamboanga City to join this festival.

Interested participants may register at the Department of Tourism – IX office or call telephone numbers (062) 955-2477 / 993-0030.

For more information on the event, visit www. birdwatch.ph, the official website of the WBCP.

Peoples Television Network Inc. PTV4 General Manager Cleo Dongga-as and HBKOR, Inc. President Kim Jung Su share a toast (left photo) to success of K-Pop Idol Search-Pinoy Edition in a press launch Friday (Feb. 7) held at the Isabela Ballroom, Makati Shangri-La Hotel in Makati City. Shown in photo at right are a group of Korean artist called “Black Queen” perform a song and dance during the press launch. The K-Pop Idol Search (KIS-Pinoy Edition) is the first leg of an Asian roadshow to discover highly-promising Asian talents. It is a competition that integrates the ultimate artistic expression of body and voice, including fashion, style and bearing to convey a total stage performance. The KIS Pinoy Edition is a production project of the HBKOR, Inc., in partnership with the People’s Television Network, Inc. (PNA photos by Ben Briones & Joey Razon)

11

Greater Sta. Cruz Island remains main tourist spot of Zambo City

T

he Greater Sta. Cruz Island remains to be the main tourist spot in this city as 21,982 visitors, to include locals, visited the place in 2013 representing an 87-percent increase in tourist visits compared to that in 2012.

The City Tourism Office reported that the Greater Sta. Cruz Island has recorded an increase of 10,237 visitors in 2013 to 21,982 from 11,745 visitors in the previous year.

The city government has started the construction of amenities and facilities to accommodate the increasing number of guests as part of its support to the development of the Greater Sta. Cruz Island as a major tourist attraction.

City Tourism Officer Sarita Sebastian-Hernandez said Tuesday that the facilities, which were built last year, include 28 huts, a pavilion, comforts rooms, potable water supply and power supply.

The Greater Sta. Cruz Island is just a 15 to 20-minute ride from this city’s mainland. The embarkation point is at the scenic Paseo del Mar. The Greater Sta. Cruz Island, which is famous for its pink coralline sand, is a small inhabited island of this city located 2.49 miles south of downtown.

Meanwhile, the Parque de Ciencia (Science Park), which was officially opened to the public in June 2013, has recorded 9,908 visitors during its first six months of operation. (PNA)

DOTC urged to fast-track installation Laguindingan airport navigat’l system CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The City Council here has passed a resolution urging the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) to fast-track installation of the air navigational system for Languindingan airport in Misamis Oriental.

City Councilor Candy Darimbang, who authored the resolution, said on Monday that the delays and cancellation of flights at the Laguindingan airport has rendered unspecified losses in government and private operations in Misamis Oriental and Northern Mindanao.

She said that flight delays were primarily due to slight changes in the weather condition, which could have been avoided had the DOTC installed adequate

navigational systems and landing lights at the airport’s runways.

Darimbang said that the local tourism industry has been grossly affected with more than 30 conventions cancelled during the month of January due to cancellation of flights.

“The cancellation of these scheduled conventions meant millions of losses for the city’s financial coffers,” he added.

She said that she authored the passage of the resolution urging the DOTC to fasttrack the installation of the navigation system at the Laguindingan airport because she believes that it is the duty of government to provide fast, efficient, convenient, and safe transport system to the people. (PNA)

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