BusinessWeek Mindanao (April 24, 2013 Issue)

BusinessWeek MINDANAO

Lost enchantment of Hinatuan’s Enchanted River

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Volume III, No. 188

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April 24, 2013

Towards peaceful elections

GPH, MILF peace sign MOU DAVAO C I T Y – T h e Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH) of the government and Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) peace panels signed early this week a memorandum of understanding on ceasefirerelated functions to ensure a peaceful mid-term election. The chairs of t he Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH) of the government Brig. Gen. Cesar Sedillo and Said Sheik, Al Haj of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) peace panels signed Monday evening in Davao City a memorandum of understa nding on ceasefire-related functions to ensure a peaceful midterm election.Mindanews Photo by Ruby Thursday More The MOU was signed

PNoy campaign in Lanao suffers technical problems

INSIDE LOOK

MARAWI CITY -– It was his first visit to the province of Lanao del Sur in his nearly three-year old administration and he was supposed to have campaigned for his “Team PNoy” – the Liberal Party candidates for the Senate, the province and the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) – but the message he wanted to deliver could hardly be understood due to technical problems. Inside the jampacked Provincial Capitol Gym here on Monday noon, President Benigno Simeon Aquino III addressed a sea of yellow – supporters in mostly yellow shirts, yellow kumbongs (vei ls), yel low caps and yellow campaign fans – in a 31-minute speech parts of which were in Maranao. But there must have been

President Benigno S. Aquino III gestures as he tells the crowd gathered Monday afternoon at the Pelaez Sports Center in Cagayan de Oro City that the Liberal Party’s senatorial candidates in the coming elections would get a 16-0 score in their favor against the other bets. The Liberal Party leadership also gave the victory sign to the local LP bets for the city and Misamis Oriental. (PHOTO BY GERRY LEE GORIT)

“Naririnig ko siya pero something wrong with the sound system at the podium di ko maintindihan,” (I from where he spoke or the can hear him but I cannot President was too far away understand), a supporter from the two microphones. PNOY/PAGE 11

PAGE 2 Maj. Gen. Ricardo Rainer Cruz new Eastmincom commander

PAGE 3 Mindanaoans in Top 10 of Teachers’ board exams

POLL WATCH

at a hotel in the city in the presence of the government peace panel chair Miriam C o r o n e l - F e r r e r, M I L F peace panel chief Mohagher Iqbal and members of the International Monitoring Team. Brig. Gen. Cesar Sedillo, chair of the government’s CCCH, said the MOU is a positive measure in support of the previous agreements signed by the negotiating panels. “This is a lso ver y important because as we have obser ved there are ot her sta keholders t hat are not part of the parties. The government and MILF showed another milestone to extend protection to the entities especially to the Board of Election Inspectors,” Sedillo added. For his cou nter pa r t, MOU/PAGE 11

ADVERTORIAL

‘White Vote Movement’ backs Villar FORMER Las Pinas Rep. Cynthia Villar thanked the ‘White Vote Movement’ after its spokesperson, El Shaddai leader and founder, Bro. Mike Velarde, officially announced and endorsed the Catholic lay groups’ support to her senatorial candidacy and five other senatoriables during their prayer rally in Paranaque City recently. “I am thankful for the trust and support of all the members of the White Vote Movement,” said Villar. T h e W h i t e Vo t e Movement is the grassroot ca mpaign recent ly launched by Catholic lay organizations, including the charismatic movement El Shaddai Movement, which extolled of 6 million members nationwide. Having been chosen

PAGE 5 Sea turtles no longer come to Punta Dumalag

Misis Hanepbuhay Cynthia Villar, along with five other senatorial candidates, namely, JV Ejercito, Gregorio Honasan, Mitos Magsaysay, Antonio Trillanes IV and Koko Pimentel, was endorsed by the White Vote Movement, through its spokesperson Bro. Mike Velarde, founder of charismatic group El Shaddai.

among the 32 senatorial candidates in the coming May elections, Villar said she feels honored and humbled. “I welcome every support, whether big or small. Every

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DA-12 pushes for bigger cassava production areas

vote counts,” stressed Villar who is running for senator under the Nacionalista Party-Team PNoy. Villar, who has gained VILLAR/PAGE 11

PAGE 10 John Lloyd revealed who wrote the wedding vows in their movie

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Wednesday April 24, 2013

News

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Maj. Gen. Ricardo Rainer Cruz new Eastmincom commander DAVAO CITY -– Maj. Gen. Ricardo Rainer Cruz has assumed as commanding general of the Armed Forces’ Eastern Mindanao Command (Eastmincom) replacing Lt. Gen. Jorge Segovia whose retirement took effect on April 22. Lt. Gen Jorge Segovia (left) speaks before his troops and guests during the change of command at the Eastern Mindanao Command in Davao City on Monday, April 22. Segovia, who has reached the mandatory retirememt age of 56, was replaced by Maj. Gen. Ricardo Rainer Cruz (right). Mindanews Photo by Ruby Thursday More

Segovia, who retired a day before reaching the mandatory retirement age of 56, boasted about the success of the Peace and Development Outreach Program (PDOP) in the area of responsibility of the Eastmincom. Both Segovia and Cruz belong to the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) “Mapitagan” Class of 1980. Cruz was assigned as

Maj. Gen. Ricardo Rainer Cruz is the new commander of the Eastern Mindanao Command in Davao City effective Monday, April 22. Cruz replaced his classmate Lt. Gen. Jorge Segovia, who has reached the mandatory retirement age of 56. mindanews photo

deputy commander of the Compostela Valley-based 10th Infantry Division before he became the commander of the 1st Infantry “Tabak” Division based in Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur in February 2012. At the change of command ceremony on Monday at the Eastmincom headquarters, Segovia claimed that the PDOP under the AFP’s Oplan Bayanihan has freed 183 barangays in Davao Oriental from insurgency. “Eastmincom has indeed accomplished the task of building partnerships, the partnerships that laid the groundwork for expanded team and propelled us to achieve our mission,” he added. The three-star general acknowledged the contribution of the private sector to the relief and rehabilitation of the typhoon Pablo-stricken areas. “They are those who I cannot simply order around but nonetheless offered a hand and expressed willingness to get involved.” E ast mincom covers Regions 10, 11, 12, 13 (Caraga) and the provinces of L anao del Sur and Maguindanao, which are part of the Autonomous Region

Lt. Gen Jorge Segovia renders salute to the colors in a troop review during the change of command at the Eastern Mindanao Command in Davao City on Monday, April 22. Segovia, who has reached the mandatory retirement age of 56, was replaced by Maj. Gen. Ricardo Rainer Cruz. mindanews photo

in Muslim Mindanao. Cruz, in his acceptance sp e e ch, c a l le d for an expanded partnership with and active participation by different stakeholders in the region. “ To t h e d i f f e r e n t government line agencies, let us continue the teamwork in bringing government closer to the people we have sworn to serve. We have

already gained headway, we just have to sustain it,” he said. Cruz also vowed: “Our military commanders under the Eastmincom, shall always be approachable and accessible to the information you need. Having that, we will not allow our audience to be misled and turned radical by the communists

and militants.” AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Emmanuel Bautista, who led the change of command ceremony, also lauded the efforts of the Eastmincom in being at the forefront in the rehabilitation effort for the typhoon-stricken areas. “The whole world has witnessed your heroism in that tragic event,” Bautista said. (Mindanews)

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News Mindanaoans in Top 10 of Teachers’ board exams DAVAO CITY – Six Mindanawons made it to the Top Ten passers in the March 10, 2013 Licensure Examination for Teachers (LET)E l e m e n t a r y, t w o of them from the Mindanao State University (MSU) in Marawi City and one from the Notre Dame of Jolo College.

The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) and the Board for Professional Teachers (BPT) announced on April 18 that 10,310 elementary teachers out of 37,117 examinees (27.78%) and 15,223 secondary teachers out of 38,433 examinees (39.61%) passed the LET. Twenty-nine examinees were listed as Top Ten passers in the LET-Elementary topped by graduates of the University of the Philippines in Diliman. Another 29 examinees were listed as Top Ten Passers in the LET-Secondary topped by a graduate of the Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila. The new licensed elementary school teachers from Mindanao who made it to the Top Ten are 5th placer Ginalyn Baco Fuentes of the Western Mindanao University (88%); 6th placer Junaida Macasil-Bula of MSU-Marawi (87.80%), 7th placer Neil Jay Gaspar Roda of MSU-Marawi (87.60%), and 10th placers who scored 87% : Edwin Abduhasad Abrasa of Notre Dame of Jolo College, John Carl Sogo-an Aunso and Joy Amigleo Soylon both of the University of Mindanao in Davao City. The new licensed high s c h o ol t e a c h e r s f rom Mindanao who made it to the Top Ten are 10th placers Julie Ann Igcalinos Amto of the University of MindanaoTagum and Al Kevin Nunez Lumanas of the Holy Cross of Davao College who both got 90.20%. The Top Ten LETElementary passers: A i l e e n Ve n t i n i l l a D a c as i n , U P D i l i man (89.80%) Mae Gabrielle de Chavez Gabrieles, UP Diliman (89.60%) Chr istine Abigail Piniano Andoy, Holy Name University (formerly Divine Word-Tagbilaran) (88.60%) Je s t o n i L i mp a n g o g Potot, University of Cebu in Lapulapu and Mandaue (88.20%) Arlaj Somera Turingan, UP Diliman (88.20%) Rachel Red Amparo, UP DIliman (88%) Kristel Marie Dianne Bu n a g d e R am o s , St . Scholastica’s College (88%)

Ginalyn Baco Fuentes, Western Mindanao State Univeristy-Zamboanga City (88%) Junaida Macasil Bula, MSU-Marawi (87.80%) L ara Gale C ayanog Castro, University of Saint Louis-Tuguegarao (87.80%) R e z Gu i l l e r Ab i n g O n g c o y, H o l y N a m e University (87.80%) Ivy Joy Bognot Cunanan, UP Diliman (87.60%) Sheena Torren Merino, Un i v e r s it y o f B a g u i o (87.60%) Neil Jay Gaspar Roda, MSU-Marawi (87.60%) Charito Macua Sayson, Holy Name University (87.60%) Karisse Anne Grasparil L e g a s pi , U P D i l i m a n (87.40%) Janel Cabalag Panganiban, Saint Scholastica’s College (87.40%) Stephanie Marie Casino Relampagos, UP Diliman (87.40%) Mirasol Parantar Boyles, University of the EastManila (87.20%) Erika Jane Cortes Pagado, University of the Cordilleras (formerly Baguio C.F.) (87.20%) Janine Leveriza Pogoso, Philippine Normal University-Manila (87.20%) Devina Dagcuta Redillas, National Teachers College (87.20%) E dw in Ab du has a d Abrasa, Notre Dame of Jolo College (87%) John Carlo Sogo-an Aunso, UM-Davao City (87%) Junalie Labajo Brago,

Talisay City College (87%) Jam Visaya Fallardia, UP Diliman (87%) Andrea Isabel Sarabia Ilagan, UP Diliman (87%) Creslie Jean dela Rosa P a l a n c a , H o l y Na m e University (87%) Joy Amigleo Soylon, UM-Davao City (87%) T he Top Te n L ETSecondary passers: Percival Byron Salazar Bueser, Pamantasan Ng Lungsod ng Maynila (94%) Conrado Trinidad Sotelo, Manila Tytana Colleges, Inc [formerly Manila Doctors College] (92%) Alex Bernadas Brigoli, We s t V i s a y a s S t a t e University-La Paz (91.60%) Kristine Joy Castillo Paas, UP Diliman (91.40%) Ian Emerson Dalanon Abellano, Universidad De Santa Isabel [Col De Sta Isabel] (91.20%) Ke v i n C h r i s t o p h e r B ol i ma C ord ov i z, UP Diliman (91.20%) Alvin John Tubato Mayor National Teacher’s College (91.20%) Jose Angelo Soler Nate Bicol University-Legazpi (91.20%) Aianne Lagan Bustamante Saint Louis University (91%) Jonan Marie Florida Obias, UP Los Baños (91%) Marieta Cabarios Baysa, University of Santo Tomas (90.80%) Sheila Mae Mangubat D i a n o, C e b u No r m a l University [Cebu State College] (90.80%) Irvin Lim Ong, Our Lady Of Fatima University,

Republic of the Philippines SUPREME COURT 10th Judicial Region REGIONAL TRIAL COURT OF MISAMIS ORIENTAL Cagayan de Oro City OFFICE OF THE EXECUTIVE JUDGE NOTICE OF HEARING Notice is hereby given that a summary hearing on the petitions for Notarial Commission of the following Notaries Public shall be held on May 02,2013, at 2:00 in the afternoon at the Office of the Executive Judge. Any person who has any cause or reason to object to the grant of the petition may file a verified written opposition thereto, received by the undersigned before the date of the summary hearing. 1. ATTY. JOAN S. CALIPES Let a copy of this notice be published once in a newspaper of general circulation prior to the hearing, per A.M. No. 03-8-02-SC, at the expense of the petitioner/s. Given this 19th day of April 2013 at Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines. HON. GIL G. BOLLOZOS 1st Executive Judge Acting Executive Judge BWM: April 24, 2013

Valenzuela (90.80%) Carla Joy Perillo Palado, Urdaneta City University [Ccu] (90.80%) Marlena Joy Gandola Barker, Central Philippine University (90.60%) Edmon Bereber Escosia, UP-Visayas, Iloilo City (90.60%) Ariel Nalbog Mabudyang, Saint Louis University (90.60%) Ma Arra Balinas Santos, Marikina Institute of Science & Technology (90.60%) Maria Isabel Delos Reyes Bautista, University of Santo Tomas (90.40%) Wi n a Joy Me rc a d o Calimlim, University of Pangasinan (90.40%) Carmelette Cawaling Davila, De La Salle University-Dasmariñas (90.40%) Cristopher Sidro L a o d e n i o, Un i v e r s i t y of Eastern Philippines, Catarman (90.40%) Julie Ann Igcalinos Amto, University of MindanaoTagum (90.20%) Paolo-Niño Herrera Arceo, Pamantasan ng Lu n g s o d n g M a y n i l a (90.20%) exams/PAGE 11

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Oro Chamber holds biz negotiation workshop T h e C a g ay an d e O ro Chamber of Commerce and Industry Foundation, Inc. (Oro Chamber) in partnership with AGF C onsu lt i ng Group, i s organizing a training on “Negotiation for Business Success” on April 25-26, 2013, at 1:00-5:30 pm in the Oro Chamber Business Centre, Pueblo de Oro Township, this city. The city’s biggest business group believes that the participants of this learning session will be able to learn and apply te ch n i qu e s related to creating a winwin business atmosphere. This seminar is a must for entrepreneurs and anyone looking for practical, tested and proven approaches to negotiating more successfully considering the full economic integration within the ASEAN in 2015. The seminar is recommended for managers at all levels, from supervisors and middle managers to top

executives. Subordinates and support staff, who participate substantially in sales and people handling are also encouraged to attend. The training provider, AGF Consulting Group, is a leading ISO-certified training and consulting company in the country today and a recent addition to the Chamber’s roster of member companies. AGF is one of the most sought after consulting firms when it comes to implementing best practices across a variety of functional areas including quality, productivity, environment, health and safety, business process improvements, project management and information technology. For more information, contact the Oro Chamber Secretariat through Ms. Che Rayos at telephone numbers (088) 858-4068 and 309-0951 or email at orochamber@gmail.com.

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Wednesday April 24, 2013

Tourism

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Feature: Lost enchantment of Hinatuan’s Enchanted River HINATUAN, Surigao del Sur – What was once an ordinary log pond at the height of the logging operations in Surigao del Sur in the 1950s is now one of the top tourist destinations in the province. With its cool crystalclear water, the “Enchanted River” is one of the mustvisit natural resorts of this rustic town and it has been drawing foreign and local tourists alike even before it was fully developed two years ago. From the town proper, a 14-kilometer narrow dirt road leads to the natural spring resort nestled at B arangay C amb atong . Single motorcycles, locally known as habal-habal, carry passengers from the town proper to the resort for P40. Ernesto Dungque, one of the resort workers, tells MindaNews that what is now the swimming area used to be a log pond. He adds that a few logs still lie submerged at the bottom of the 26-meter deep natural pool. A native of the barangay

himself, Dungque recalls that some 15 years back it was just an ordinary natural spring where local villagers would occasionally gather and swim. “When you just pass by the road, you would not really notice that there is a natural spring in here because this was still covered by thick forest and giant balete trees,” the resort worker, who is now in his mid-40s, adds. Asked why it’s called “Enchanted River,” Dungque can’t exactly explain but he believes that it is because of the stories that engkantos (supernatural creatures) have been seen in the area. “Pero dugay na to. Daghan mga istorya dire na naay mga gapa-ramdam na dili pareha sa atua. Pero wala na karon, daghan naman tao. Siguro nadawat na nila” (But

that was a long time ago. Stories abound that they make their presence felt here. But that’s no longer the case, as many people have been coming here. Maybe they have accepted that). And just two years ago, the local government decided to build huts and install beach umbrellas a few meters away from the river. A wooden foot bridge also leads to the docking area for motorized bancas, which ferry tourists to the nearby island and beach resort for P150 an hour. Concrete stairways have been built leading to the children’s pool and to the bluish natural pool. Gatekeepers collect an entrance fee of P20 and cottages are available at P100. Since the pool is quite deep, they require those who don’t know how to swim to wear lifejackets which are for rent at P100 each for a whole day use. But lifeguards are always on their stations to keep an eye on the excursionists.

Kids may also swim at the knee-deep pond beside the larger pond and at the shallow portion of the river, just a few meters away from bluish waters. During high tide, sea water flows back into the river and makes the water brackish. From the head spring, the river flows 600 meters into the coastline of Hinatuan Bay, which is facing the Pacific Ocean. Seafoods galore Just across the road, a row of stalls serve newly cooked sea foods at very affordable prices. You can enjoy a plateful of squid for just P100 and another plate of grilled fish for P50 to P100. But mind you, t he vendors don’t serve pork or beef. The tourists, one vendor said, must enjoy the fresh sea foods from this town since pork or any meat can be readily had back in their hometowns.

At 12 o’clock noon, the bell rings and swimmers are asked to vacate the river since it is feeding time for the fish. After ringing the bell, a resort worker would come down beside the pond and throw away leftovers of rice, shrimps, bread and other food. This lasts an hour during which no one is allowed to swim in the river. Peak season During Christmas season and summer, tourists would reach as many as 500 persons per day, a number too big for the resort to accommodate. But Dungque says that some would just wait outside until a group would leave. “There are times that some would just leave and go to nearby beach resorts,” he says adding that some would even hold parties and meetings in the resort. But unlike in nearby beach resorts, overnight

stay is not allowed as the resort closes at 5p.m. Bringing videoke machine and playing loud music is prohibited. However, those who have visited the Enchanted River before it was transformed into a commercial resort say they still prefer the natural look of the river. In the past, tourists had to cling to rocks and roots when going down to the river. “Nothing b eats the natural beauty of this river in the past. You could really enjoy the rejuvenating beauty of the environment,” a local tourist said. “Nawala na hinuon pagka-enchanted kay daghan naman tao permi” (The enchantment has been lost due to the influx of many people). Another local tourist recommends that the best time to visit the Enchanted River is during off-season to really enjoy the hush of nature. (MindaNews)

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Features

The sea turtles no longer come to Punta Dumalag PUNTA DUMALAG, Davao City – The summer heat on Saturday afternoon made the beach at Punta Dumalag, the coastal part of Barangay Matina Aplaya here, so enticing for some boys and girls to dive and frolic in the water. It was the same shore that, in 2003, was discovered to be a nesting site of endangered Hawksbill sea tu r t l e s ( E re t mo chely s imbricata), called pawikan in the vernacular. Marine turtles are known to return to and nest in the same place where they were hatched after about 30 years, when they reach maturity. In the same year, the city government declared the area as a nesting ground for the turtles, and created the Task Force Pawikan Davao for the protection and conservation of the marine reptiles. The creation of the sanctuar y made Punta Dumalag a destination of thousands of visitors, pulling the city’s tourism sector a notch higher. But some changes have

happened in this place, in particular the disappearance of what used to be its chief attraction – the pawikan. Village chief Jimmy Poliquit said that as far as he can remember the turtles have been gone in Punta Dumalag since 2010. Another nesting site was established in Daliao, a coastal village in Toril district, where turtles were later discovered too. But the sanctuary in Punta Dumalag remains protected through a local environment program even if the turtles no longer come, Poliquit added. “It’s dif ferent now. People rarely come here even on the weekends,” said Divina Estrera-Teves, whose parents own the Cloud Eagle Beach Resort, popularly called “Seagullid” (near the

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Seagull Beach Resort) since the 80’s. Her parents have leased the land from the government since the early 90s, she said, adding that she and her family have resided there as early as the 1960’s. She recalled that all 40 cottages used to be occupied by beach goers, most of them low- and middle-income earners, and students who wanted to see the pawikan. The resort has only 20 cottages now, but they are hardly filled, especially during the last Lenten season, she told MindaNews while tending her small house inside the resort compound. She confessed that she even yielded to customers who would bargain for an overnight stay in a cottage for P100 instead of P150. “Business is so slow nowadays. We usually borrow money just to pay for our lease and business permit,” she said. For her part, aside from the absence of the turtles in the sanctuary, the threat of tsunami since typhoon Ondoy in 2009 caused the decrease of the number of visitors in the area. She added the fear of tsunami grew after typhoon Pablo hit Davao Oriental and Compostela Valley last December. Population growth, pollution Poliquit also noted that fish catch has decreased in the area, and he attributed this mainly to pollution and a growing population. Punta Dumalag has around 1,000 households 30 percent of

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LIFE CYCLE. Newly hatched turtles head to the waters of Linamon town in Lanao del Norte. Once at sea, the turtles will start a new life cycle. The female adults eventually return to shore to lay eggs, generally in the area where they were born. mindanews photo

which rely on fishing for livelihood. Bambam Gaspar, 50, said that at present he could barely catch five kilograms of fish a day when he could catch 10 to 20 kilograms before. “Hinay na ang panagat karon (Fishing is less productive now),” he said while making a “bobo”, an indigenous fish trap made of plastic screen and bamboo slats to support the bottom part. He said that since last year fishing has barely put food on the table for his wife and three kids, adding he does carpentry sometimes to support their daily needs. Born in Punta Dumalag in 1963, Gaspar admitted that he was into dynamite fishing from 1981 to the 1990s. The Department of Science and Technology has conducted several studies and water sampling in the area since it was declared as a mariculture park. Since the results showed

a high concentration of coliform and other pathogens such as Escherichia coli (E. coli) from animal and human wastes, the city government ordered 34 fish cage operators in Punta Dumalag to fold up last year. Poliquit said a few operators have heeded the city government’s order, while some have continued to operate despite the expiration of their permits. He said the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources has to strictly implement the order and dismantle the fish cages. Still a summer spot Estrera-Teves may be unhappy with how the Cloud Eagle Beach Resort has fared after the turtles vanished and other problems came to Punta Dumalag. But neighboring Davao S e ag u l l B e a ch R e s or t maintains its business and remains a summer spot for both domestic and foreign tourists, operations manager Bobet Laurel said. He said the reports on the presence

of E. coli have not affected their sales. “The beach is still safe for swimming,” he told MindaNews, adding the city government would inform them if the water quality became alarming. He said they have an average of 500 customers a month, particularly between March and April this year. He said all their rooms were occupied from Maundy Thursday to Palm Sunday. He noted that this was better that their sales performance for the same period last year. Meanwhile, the people of Punta Dumalag have remained optimistic of development despite the environmental problems that have affected their livelihood. “We still hope to solve the pollution in the sea through the cooperation of all constituents in the village and agencies in the local government,” Poliquit said. (Lorie Ann Cascaro/ MindaNews)

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Opinion

Wednesday April 24, 2013

Statement on the Armed Confrontation between the NPA and Mayor Guingona’s Party

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he Sowing the Seeds of Peace in Mindanao is saddened by the incident involving an NPA attack on Gingoog City Mayor Ruthie Guingona and her armed bodyguards on 21 April 2013. Former Vice President Teofisto Guingona, Mayor Ruthie’s husband, is an acknowledged peace advocate, having been the only personality during the Estrada and Aquino governments to speak out against all-out war in Mindanao. The Guingonas’ daughter and Gingoog City mayoral candidate Marie also represented the Vice President in humanitarian missions for the internally displaced in Central Mindanao in 2001. We call for a thorough investigation by the National Democratic Front of the Philippines in accordance with the provisions of the GRP-NDFP Comprehensive Agreement on Respect for Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law and the NPA’s own rules of engagement and protocols. We are open to being a third party body for the purpose of conducting an independent investigation into the incident and to pinpoint accountability and due remedies. We are also open to being an independent third party humanitarian mission to facilitate indemnification which has been earlier announced by the

NDFP in Mindanao. In the past, we have asked for the release of NPA Prisoners of War based on humanitarian grounds and similarly called for the release of political prisoners and detained NDFP consultants. Sowing the Seeds believes that the incident demonstrates the need to further strengthen established mechanisms such as the GPH-NDFP Human Rights Joint Monitoring Committee. It also makes the resumption of the GPHNDFP peace talks more urgent in order to lay down these complaints and issues in the negotiating table. Further, the said armed confrontation between the police bodyguards and the NPA reflects the reality of elections happening in the midst of the ongoing internal armed conflict in the country. The inherent nature of elections as gunwielding and the inherent nature of revolutionary movements as armed in the assertion of their political territories, are bound to cross paths. We call on both parties to resume formal peace talks to ink the Comprehensive Agreement on Social and Economic Reforms (SER) so that the negotiations can move on to discuss Political and Constitutional Reforms (PCR) as the third substanstatement/PAGE 7

eek BusinessWMindanao DANTE M. SUDARIA Publisher ROSE MARY D. SUDARIA General Manager

CHENG ORDOÑEZ Editor-in-Chief

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D

Create your own luck

o you know some people who just have all the luck? They seem to get all the breaks. And you ask yourself: “Why don’t I get lucky? Why don’t I get a great education? A great job or business? A nice house? A wonderful wife or husband?” But the real reason most people are successful or lucky is that they’ve learned how to put themselves in a place so they can be lucky. They’ve learned how to, in a way, create their own luck! I’m not talking about dishonest or illegal ways. I’m talking about hard, honest work. But successful people don’t just work hard, they also work smart. They keep improving and making the most of their assets and abilities. Yet they also learn to ask for help in things they themselves are not that good at doing. As the famous Olympic athlete, Eric Liddle, said: “You can’t put in what God left out.” So we not only must make the most of our own special abilities, we must also learn our limits and weaknesses. A man recently got his lucky big break-a promotion in a large company. Everyone said, “That guy’s so lucky!” But that man created his own luck.by always arriving at the office early. He apologized and admitted when he

THINK

was wrong. He even shared A Minute the credit and reward with By Jhan Tiafau Hurst others when he had done much of the work. He was never satisfied just to get by and do average work. He always made the extra effort to do his very best. He kept working hard when others slacked off. We have to work hard and do what it takes to be in the way of luck and success when it comes. Otherwise, we’ll miss it because we weren’t ready. You never know when the right opportunity will come your way, and when the right, important person is watching your excellent attitude and work. That’s when you’ll get your lucky break! But when you put your life in Jesus Christ’s hands, the right, important Person is always watching you and all that you do. Then He will reward and bless your life in many ways as you do your very best to please Him in everything everyday. Just Think a Minute .

Investing with managed funds: Part 2

A

mong the most common forms of managed fund investing is a mutual fund. A mutual fund is a professionally managed investment vehicle that collectively pools money from several investors which is then used to purchase a portfolio of securities. Mutual fund companies are also called investment companies. The majority have an “open-ended” structure, wherein investors are allowed to buy or sell fund shares at any time. The specific types of securities a mutual fund may invest in are explicitly stated in its prospectus, which also describes its investment approach and objectives. Professionally-trained portfolio managers continually monitor the fund’s portfolio and strategies. Mutual funds originated in Europe in the 17th Century. A Dutch merchant was credited with creating the first mutual fund in 1774. In the US, mutual funds were first introduced in the 1890s but only became popular in the 1920s. The first open-end mutual fund was established in 1924 by the Massachusetts Investors Trust, and is now part of the MFS fund family. The mutual fund concept initially reached Philippine shores in 1957. However, in the absence of a governing law and with poor structuring of these mutual fund finance companies which attracted both legitimate and fly-by-night transactions, the industry did not gain

THE

further ground.This was all the more aggravated with the collapse of the stock market Financial D octor By Adonis Agcopra in the late 1950s. After the initial mutual fund industry fiasco, R. A. 2629, the Investment Company Act (ICA), was enacted into law in the 1960s. Mutual fund companies slowly resurfaced starting with Trinity Shares, followed later by the Pacific and Malayan Funds. A thin equity market in the background of political instability during the Marcos era eventually punctuated by capital flight and a 30% dive in the Manila Stock Exchange triggered the demise of such funds, with Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) banning their sale in 1973. It was not until 1989 when the SEC formulated the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) that mutual fund in the Philippines truly had its renewed vigor. At present, with the necessary controls and regulations in place and with much higher professionalism, it is with greater certainty that Philippine mutual funds are here agcopra/PAGE 7

LGU’s can allocate funds to the offices of their local Comelec officers?

T

he omnibus election law already prohibits the disbursement of public funds during election period, and rightfully so; the rationale is to prevent incumbents from using public funds to their advantage to perpetrate themselves into power ad infinitum. However, the same law also allows LGUs to allocate the so-called “election reserve fund” for the requirements of their respective election officer. What gives? LGU’s pass these ordinances specifically for this purpose. This highly inappropriate ordinance creates the relationship with the Comelec officer and worst of all generates the “utang na loob” with the incumbent LGU officers and their allies. Imagine, an election officer asking for funds from the LGU for cellphone load cards, meals, transportation allowances, t-shirts, etc. There is talk of some LGU’s that give up to P5M for favors such like allowing their troop of voters to vote first. They are told to wear gray ribbons for example (for identification) whiles those without disenfranchised. Such practice is unfortunately sanctioned by law and is also cause for the dreaded dynasties in the Philippines. Incumbents are allowed to perpetrate themselves into power because they use government funds to do it. The issue with hiring of job contract casuals, especially during election season is another issue. This relationship is cause for graft and corruption but is the seeming practice in the local districts. While Comelec elections officers are shuffled to avoid familiarity with the LGU’s, upon entry the traditional practice of “pasalubong” or gifts awarded is the reality. This distorts the function of the election officer to favor one candidate or party over another. And should this practice not be allowed, how is it this practice is authorized by LGU’s?

SUPER

B randing

By Harry Tambuatco

Section 10 and 50 of the Omnibus Election Code provides that: “Sec. 10. Election expenses. - Except in barangay elections, such expenses as may be necessary and reasonable in connection with the elections, referenda, plebiscites and other similar exercises shall be paid by the Commission. The Commission may direct that in the provinces, cities, or municipalities, the election expenses chargeable to the Commission be advanced by the province, city or municipality concerned subject to reimbursement by the Commission upon presentation of the proper bill. Funds needed by the Commission to defray the expenses for the holding of regular and special elections, referenda and plebiscites shall be provided in the regular appropriations of the Commission which, upon request, shall immediately be released to the Commission. In case of deficiency, the amount so provided shall be augmented from the special activities funds in the general appropriations act and from those specifically appropriated for the purpose in special laws.” “Sec. 50. Funding. - Local governments shall appropriate such funds to defray such necessary and reasonable expenses of the members of the board of election tellers, board of canvassers and the printing of election forms and procurement of other election paraphernalia, and the installation of polling booths.” Further, in the case of Liga ng Mga Barangay v. Comelec, G.R. No. 114809, May 5, 1994, the Supreme tambuatco/PAGE 7

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Agcopra... from page 6

to stay. As per Philippine Investment Fund Association (PIFA) data, there are now a total of 47 active mutual fund companies in the country as of month-end March 2013. More details of these mutual funds may be secured through the PIFA website (www.pifa.com.ph). The next installment of this column will look into the intricacies of investing in managed mutual funds. Happy investing! Act now! ---- (Dr. Adonis Agcopra, MBA, CIS, RFC® is with the IARFC and is portfolio director of AFIC Meridian Consultants. URL: www. aficfinancialconsultants. c o m . E m a i l : aficfinancialconsultants@ outlook.com.)

As peace advocates, we need to re-emphasize the importance of peace negotiations as a viable means to tackle and resolve outstanding issues and especially to address the roots of the armed conflict.

Tambuatco... from page 6

Court also has mentioned that the allocation of a Local Government Unit during elections can be done. Note that the pronouncement of the Supreme Court on the matter is merely obiter

dictum but it explained the purpose of Sections 10 and 50 of the Omnibus Election Code when the Supreme Court cited the opinions of both the Solicitor General and the Secretary of Justice. In 2010, COMELEC also issued Resolution 10-1029, wherein they allowed LGUs to allocate funds during the SK elections at that time. It should also be noted that other LGUs also allocate funds for the elections. News reports about it can also be seen in the internet – http://www.facebook.com/l/ EAQGz3VTRAQHRROJ_

READ!

Statement... from page 6

tive agenda. We hope that the incident will not further dim hopes of resuming the GPH-NDFP peace talks. We support the call of the Guingona family to resume the GPH-NDFP peace talks and echo the statement of Senator Teofisto Guingona III who said: “Because it (unpeace) will further escalate if the peace talk will not continue, so I call on everyone especially the CPP-NPA to have a peace talk.” We address the same call to President Aquino.

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7

‘The Many Faces of the Teacher 2013’ nominations deadline extended T O G I V E m ore t i m e for school associations, rel i g i ous and p ar t ne r organizations, and the school heads, students, and teachers to submit their nominations, the Bato Balani Foundation Inc (BBFI) and Diwa Learning Systems Inc announced that the submission of nominations for “The Many Faces of the Teacher” search is extended to May 15, 2013. The Many Faces of the Teacher is an advocacy program of BBFI and Diwa to recognize teachers who demonstrated exceptional performance in their profession and provided service that had a lasting impact to their community. Nominees for this program should display c re at iv it y, i n n ov at i on and resourcefulness in their career, and more i m p o r t a n t l y, p o s s e s s impeccable values applied in teaching, family, and personal life. The search is open to teachers of all ages, who are actively teaching in private or public primary, elementary or s econdar y s cho ols, colleges, and universities. He or she must demonstrate exceptional performance in teaching; has employed creativity, innovation, and resourcefulness in teaching; and very importantly, have impeccable values applied

in teaching, family, and personal life. The nominees should also have a deep sense of nationalism and are committed to teaching for the benefit of the country and its people. He or she must be respected in school and community and is a role model for students, colleagues, and family. In addition, he or she must be an active member of the community and has engaged in socio-civic activities. Nomination forms and other requirements must be submitted to Bato Balani Foundation Inc., 6F PDCP Bank Center , V.A Rufino cor. Leviste Streets, Salcedo Village, 1227 Makati City. N o m i n a t i o n s m ay a l s o b e s e nt t o batobalanifoundation@

gmail.com or bbfi@ diwamail.com. All the gathered nominations presented to the advocacy review board consisting of BBFI officers and other heads of foundations will be screened for the award. The screening committee will use the following criteria for evaluation: integrity and morality ; e x c e p t i o n a l r e l at i o n s with students, colleagues, community members, and family; commitment and dedication to the teaching vo c at i on ; s t re ng t h of values/principles applied in teaching and personal life; and involvement in school and community activities. To know more about this program log on to www. batobalanifoundation.org. ph.

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READ! READ!

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DA-12 pushes for bigger cassava prod’n areas GENERAL SANTOS CITY — The Department of Agriculture (DA) in Region 12 is pushing for the expansion of cassava production areas in the region as market opportunities for the crop remain high. Edgar Laboy, DA-12’s cassava focal person, said Tuesday they presently consider cassava production as among the most viable alternative ventures for farmers in the region due to its increasing demand and stable market prices. Region 12 comprises the provinces of South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, S a r a n g a n i a n d Nor t h Cotabato as well as the cities of General Santos, Koron a d a l, Ta c u rong , Kidapawan and Cotabato. Laboy said business conglomerate San Miguel Corporation (SMC) has been offering production and marketing contracts with local farmers who wants to venture into cassava farming. He said DA and SMC are jointly promoting the massive production of fresh yellow cassava, which is ideal for food production a s we l l a s i ng re d i e nt for bio-ethanol alcohol formulations. In line with this, he said they launched a training program on cassava production for farmers in South Cotabato, which was earlier identified as among the areas that were highlysuitable for the crop. He said the training, w hich fo c us ed on the utilization of postharvest facilities and processing technologies for cassava, is facilitated by DA-12’s Agri-Pinoy Corn-Cassava Program. The participants were

also trained in creating dishes like Jolly Roll, Yuk Sticks, and s oursweet cassava for possible additional livelihood ventures, he said. B e n Br as a l e s , SMC area coordinator, said that they are buying cassava for processing into animal feeds, alcohol and food products. “SMC prefers to use c a s s av a a s s u b s t i t u t e ingredient or raw material because of its lower cost. It is not economically viable to import the crop and

besides. our farmers have enough capacity to produce them,” he said. Studies showed that cassava is considered as a viable field crop due to its capability to survive drastic climatic changes, especially dry spells or drought, he said. Brasales said farmers will have no problem with possible fluctuations of its market prices as SMC buys fresh cassava at P2.50 per kilo and dried-chips in granulated form at P8.50 a kilo. At present, Brasales said there is a huge demand for the crop in the markets as SMC alone needs around 500,000 metric tons (MT) annually for its animal feed

production. He said they expect the market prices and demand for the crop to continually increase in the coming years. “As long as we e at chicken meat, eggs and processed food products or drink beer, there will always be a high demand for cassava,” he said. D at a f rom DA- 1 2 ’s Agribusiness and Marketing Assistance Division showed that the region’s cassava production reached 60,000 MT in 2011 and increased to 80,000 MT last year. The crop’s production areas are located in parts of South Cotabato, Sarangani, Sultan Kudarat and North Cotabato. (MindaNews)

With the goal to hire only the most competent and qualified, the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) and the Civil Service Commission (CSC) entered into an agreement to develop the former’s employment test last April 17, 2013 at the CSC Head Office in Batasan Hills, Quezon City. The signing of the memorandum of agreement was headed by GSIS President and General Manager Robert G. Vergara and CSC Chairman Francisco T. Duque III. Witnessing the event are GSIS Vice President for Human Resources Christine F. Tirados and CSC Commissioner Robert S. Martinez.

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Chemical Industry Association endorses AANI Party List thrust for countryside renewal The third largest sector of the Manufacturing industry in the Philippines has endorsed the bid of the AANI Party List for a seat in the lower house during the May 13 elections. In a l e tt e r t o A ng Agrikultura Natin, Isulong! (AANI) First Nominee Joffrey E. Hapitan dated April 19, 2013, the Samahan sa Pilipinas ng Mga Industriyang Kimika (SPIK) represented by Oscar S. Melencio, executive director, officially endorsed AANI for party list representation in Congress. The Samahan sa Pilipinas ng Mga Industriyang Kimika (SPIK) or the Chemical Industries Association of t he Ph i l ippi ne s , is an organizat ion of 69 chemical companies engaged in the fields of Petroleum, Petrochemical, Agrochemicals & Fertilizers, Oleochemicals & Surfactants, Basic Chemicals, Specialty Chemicals, Industrial Gases, Coatings & Ink, Rubber, and Plastic. The chemical industry, which SPIK represents, is the third largest sector of the Manufacturing industry, contributing 6.7 percent of total Philippine GDP or PhP 330 Billion per year domestic production. “It has come to our attention that your organization, the AANI party list, is involved in the agrochemical business for small farmers, specifically the production of ethanol from sweet potato,” said Mr. Melencio in his letter. “We also understand that another goal of AANI is to apply modern technology to improve agriculture in the country side.” S P I K s a i d A A N I ’s advocacy and programs are in line with its own objectives and goals as expounded in Our Chemical In du s t r y Ma s t e r P l an submitted to the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) as SPIK’s contribution to the agenda of the government to chart the direction of the Philippine industries. “We are in full support of your advocacy and we look forward to cooperate and partner with your group in the pursuit of helping the small farmers and agricultural workers in using modern technology for agriculture and in the development and improvement of SME agrochemical businesses in the Philippines,” SPIK said. The SPIK endorsement was a ls o note d by its p r e s i d e n t R o b e r t o F. Batungbacal. Engr. Hapitan expressed e l a t i o n o v e r S P I K ’s endorsement of its program to uplift agriculture through

bioethanol derived from the humble sweet potato (camote). “O u r m e m b e r s a re using the bioethanol as a 100 percent substitute for gasoline in their motorcycles and tricycles, grass cutters and motorized bancas,” he said. “Bioethanol is also a good fuel substitute for LPG but burns cleaner, is renewable and much cheaper. When used for cooking, only P3.00 worth is needed to cook one kilo of rice.” Compared to irrigated rice, camote costs much less to produce but when used as bioethanol feedstock, returns much higher profits. “It will only cost P25, 000 per hectare to convert idle land to camote production, fully harnessed with a smallscale bioethanol processing facility,” Engr. Hapitan said. “In contrast, it costs P250, 000 per hectare for a fully irrigated facility and infrastructure for rice production.” Furthermore, bioethanol production generates much higher revenue than rice production. “We are able to produce 8,000 liters of bioethanol per hectare per year. At P45 per liter ex-farm, this will translate to P360, 000 annual revenue per hectare.” In contrast, a palay yield of 100 cavans per hectare will only mean 200 cavans annual yield per hectare, assuming two cropping period per year. At P600 per cavan of palay, annual revenue for palay production would only be P120, 000 per hectare per year, he added. “With the additional revenues generated from idle lands converted to pro duc t ive bio et hanol farms, our country can easily generate a cash surplus that would allow us the flexibility we need to meet our various food requirements,” Engr. Hapitan noted (with a smile!) Traditionally viewed as the poor man’s staple in times of drought, famine or other disasters, sweet potato (camote) has the potential to serve both its traditional role as a food staple in the rural areas but could step up to become a strategic source of bioethanol for the country’s energy and transportation industries. “Through cooperatives managed by farmers themselves, sweet potato farming and bioethanol production can transform marg i na l f ar me rs and farmlands into key agents of change for the upliftment of the national economy through village level processing of camote bioethanol for both energy and food security,” Engr. Hapitan said.

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Entertainment

B A S K E T B A L L U P D AT E

This Week’s

HOROSCOPE

George of Pacers wins Kia’s Most Improved Player Paul George of Indiana Pacers, who earned his first All-Star Game berth en route to leading the Pacers to the Central Division crown and the No.3 seed in the eastern Conference Playoffs, is the 20122013 Kia NBA MOst Improved Player Awardee. The annual award is presented to a player who has made a significant improvement from the previous season. George received 311 of a possible 1,080 points, including 52 first-place votes, from a panel of 120 sportswriters and broadcasters throughout the United States and Canada. Greivis Vasquez of the New Orleans (146 points, 13 firstplace votes) and the Milwaukee Bucks’ Larry Sanders (141 points, 10 first-place votes) finished second and third, respectively. Players were awarded five points for each first-place vote, three points for each second-place vote and one point for each third place vote received. George, who entered the 2012-13 campaign with career averages of 10.0 points, 4.7 rebounds, 2.4 assists and 1.3 steals, established career highs in each of those statistics -- a team-high 17.4 points, along with 7.6 rebounds, 4.7 assists and 1.8 steals. George was the only player in the league to record at least 140 steals (143) and 50 blocks (51). He had nineteen games with at least three steals, and 29 games with at least one steal and one block. According to NBA.com/Stats, in the 81 games in which George appeared, the Pacers had a +5.9 score differential when he was on the court compared with -2.0 score differential when he was on the bench. As part of its support of the Most Improved Player Award, Kia Motors America (KMA) will donate a new 2014 Kia Sorento LX CUV to Hawthorne Community Center, which provides or facilitates services and programs that meet the economic, educational, financial, social, recreational and civic needs of the entire Hawthorne Community. For more information on “The Kia NBA Performance Awards” visit NBA.com/Awards. / nba.com

AQUARIUS (January 20 – February 18) - Life gathers momentum! You could find yourself in the public eye, stay alert. Be sensible with your cash, set a savings plan in place to create the life you desire. A brilliant idea can inspire others to take the ride with you all the way to the top. Passion and romance are both in the stars, don’t get infatuated with love. PISCES (February 19 – March 20) - This is a super charged time, with plenty of excitement to keep you on your toes. With the Sun and a new Moon having just had a positive effect on your bank balance, things are looking up. If faced with a major decision about your future, consider all options. Follow your instincts and heart. ARIES (March 21 – April 19) - It’s powerful to make plans for the future! You have big things happening this year; it’s time to review your goals and dreams. Venus sends love and money your way, discard past memories and be open to embrace what comes next. Confusion about your life in general start to clear up and relieve some stress. TAURUS (April 20 – May 20) - Wish upon a star and ask for what you want, you just might get it! With love, keep an open mind. Don’t dismiss someone just because they don’t fit your ideal of a perfect partner, you could be pleasantly surprised. Your cash flow can improve, but don’t go crazy with impulse spending. GEMINI (May 21 – June 21) - Your life is accelerating! Golden opportunities come your way through good friends. It’s crucial to maintain your energy levels to keep up with everything life has in store. With love, the first step is to get real about what you want; the rest will fall into place. CANCER (June 22 – July 22) - With love, you’ve never settled for second best, don’t start now. You need a partner who loves and supports you as a best friend. At work, a fresh start is possible; fate works its magic and you can be in the right place to be introduced to the power players. LEO (July 23 – August 22) - The key to success is to be organized. With social and work commitments, you can’t afford to get distracted. Work prospects and study options also need your attention and every minute counts. Look after your overall wellbeing; this includes your inner health, and outer image. VIRGO (August 23 – September 22) - To get ahead at work, be your own public relations agent. Sometimes you need to be outspoken and let the boss know what your skills are. To have a love life that is real, build a friendship with mutual respect. When you have a soul connection you will feel it. An opportunity to put you in touch with interesting and influential people opens up at work. LIBRA (September 23 – October 22) - Keep working towards your ultimate ambitions. Use the power of thought to visualize where you want to end up. A dynamite love connection is in the stars and has the potential to rock your world. It’s a spiritual bond, be yourself and let your personality shine. Unexpected money can cross your palm. SCORPIO (October 23 – November 21) - It’s all happening this week with work and love. An unexpected love moment can knock you off your feet. If you want to take your relationship to the next step trust your intuition, if it feels right, do it. Planet Mars gives your career a boost at the start of the week with added energy, stand by for action. This is a good time to indulge in an image update. SAGITTARIUS (November 22 – December 21) - Your will to succeed is powerful. What you do now can set the pace for the future. Implement routines and your life will be more productive. With love, learn to look forward not back. Partnerships on all levels look positive, but make sure you see someone for who they really are. CAPRICORN (December 22 – January 19) - Life is limitless! On the work and social scene, team work makes anything possible. You may want more money, but often more cash in your pocket can mean more responsibility. Make sure you are prepared to take on an extra load. Where family is concerned, don’t make promises you can’t keep.

SHOWBIZ PEEK Me and Sarah G. wrote the wedding vows; John L. T he excitement is not yet going down after the showing of the John Lloyd Cruz and Sarah Geronimo movie “It Takes A Man And A Woman.” Many are happy, inspired, and in-love because of the movie. But neither anyone didn’t know that the one who wrote the wedding vows that were used in their wedding scene in the movie are John Lloyd

and Sarah themselves. “I had to write it as Miggy Montenegro. Medyo mahirap siya, you wrote from the heart. When I was writing the vows, ang tagal, ilang days. May isang group of words na talagang nagustuhan ni Ate Carmi (movie writer). The whole thought, the intention of words, I’m proud to say na kami ang gumawa.”

Even in the other countries, the movie still have many supporters. It even caught the attention of a foreign writer who submitted the report to the known international media, the CNN iReport. John Lloyd posted a photo that he had captured during his survey to the other countries with a caption “What is the magic? People

CROSSWORD puzzle

CIRCLE A WORD train of thought

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falling in line from CA, to NYC to Texas, Viriginia, Canada, etc. People driving three to eight hours just to watch this movie to venues where it is showing. So what is this movie really?” Even so, John Lloyd and Sarah want to extend their thanks to all the people who supported “It Takes A Man And A Woman”. abs-cbn showbizz news

across 1.Confidentiality (7) 5.South African currency (4) 7.Formerly (4) 8.Neckerchief (5) 9.Earth satellite (4) 10.Baptismal basin (4) 12.Moan (7) 14.Make possible (6) 18.Males (3) 19.Slave (6) 23.Titter (7) 25.French fashion designer (4) 25.Molten rock (4) 27.Flood, soak (5) 28.Scramble (4) 29.Red gemstone (4) 30.Quake (7)

DOWN 1.Oil-yielding seed (6) 2.Latin American dance (3-3) 3.Parisan tower (6) 4.Jimmy, radio DJ (5) 5.Commemorate (8) 6.Let’s David Bowie hit 11.Midlands river (5) 13.Respite (4) 15.Midday (4) 16.Housebreaking (8) 17.Implant (5) 20.Barrier (6) 21.Self-confidence (6) 22. Parlour (6) 23.Of the sun (5) 24.Rectify (5)

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Wednesday April 24, 2013

MOU... from page 1

Said Shiek, Al Haj, pointed out: “Clearly, this is not an election-related function but an undertaking for the purpose of safeguarding and promoting the GPH-MILF ceasefire accord.” Shiek added that both panels signed substantial a g reement s a nd it is a sacred duty to safeguard and transform these into a credible political solution. This is the third time that both parties signed the same guidelines to help ensure peaceful elections. The first was in 2007 and then in 2008. “This cooperation shows heightening collaboration between GPH and MILF in various ways such as development undertaking, election and good governance, capacity building and most important is promoting the primacy of peace process,” the MILF’s CCCH chair explained. T h e MOU s ay s t h e government and the MILF shall abide by the gun ban as stated in Commission on Elections (COMELEC) Resolution No. 9561, the GPH-M I L F A g re e me nt on General Cessation of Hostilities in July 1997, among others. It also aims to strengthen both parties’ cooperation and further define their roles in ensuring peaceful elections next month in order to safeguard the ceasefire and the peace process. “Here we see in motion our Ceasefire Committees doing its share in making our electoral institutions stronger so that these are able to deliver to us the blessings of democratic elections and at the same time ensuring that our own process is not disrupted,” Coronel-Ferrer said in her message at the event. She added that the joint undertaking is a “valuable initiative to protect the integrity of the GPH-MILF Ceasefire Agreement and the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro while the government ensures the conduct of honest, orderly and peaceful elections on May 13.” The government panel chair added that the signing the MOU serves to “honor and actively protect the valued processes and commitments between the GPH and the MILF as peace partners” as well as “safeguard the people’s freedom to choose their leaders” during elections. Her counterpart, Iqbal, also lauded the initiative saying the underpinning principle does not undermine the “hands-off ” policy of the MILF during elections. But he said the mid-term election is significant in relation the GPH-MILF peace process. “Whoever is placed in the saddle of ARMM will have direct relation to the conduct of the negotiation, especially if we will sign the comprehensive peace

agreement,” he stressed. Anyone who does not believe in the primacy of the peace process, Iqbal added, and in the policy of President Aquino, could pose a problem. He added the elections are also significant at the provincial and municipal le vels “ bec au se i f t hey (politicians) don’t support the primacy of peace process, it can hinder t he sma l l implementation of what has been or what will be agreed by the panels.” Iqbal, however, said he does not want discredit any of the candidates. “I cannot judge them, I cannot speculate.” “This is very significant, a lt hou g h we m a i nt a i n a ha nds-of f polic y. But shor t of v iolat i ng t hat policy, we appeal to our people to vote wisely and intelligently who can support the peace process,“ he said. (Mindanews)

Villar... from page 1

gained the moniker “Misis Ha nepBu hay ”, sees a ny support as “more than a promise or actual vote.” She noted t hat t r ust comes with the support. “It encompasses the trust that the one being supported will become a voice, an ally or a partner to pursue advocacies and goals,” related Villar. Because of this, Villar committed to live up to the trust and support afforded to her by the White Vote Movement. Villar said she shares the advocacies of the White Vote Movement—pro –life and pro-family. She li kew ise averred that the endorsement from such a ‘huge and influential’ organization strengthens her resolve to work harder to win the elections and continue her programs to uplift the lives of our people, especially the poor. In making their endorsement, Velarde said they also considered the winnability of a senatorial ca ndidate aside from conviction on life and family. The three-term former congresswoman has consistently landed in the Top 12 senatorial preferences of voters based on various election surveys.

PNoy... from page 1

seated midway from the stage and the last row, said. It w a s d i f f i c u l t t o comprehend what t he President was say ing. A number of persons could be heard conversing with each other instead of listening to the President. Most just took a cue from those who could hear him up front, clapping when they did, cheering when they did. Worse, the President’s speech, supposed to be aired live by DXSO Radyo ng Bayan Marawi and fed to Manila live as well, was not aired at all. A radio broadcaster from the station told MindaNews they

weren’t able to air live because “all telcos signals inside the gym were disabled.” “We don’t know why and who ordered the disabling of the signals,” the broadcaster said. Reporters and the ARMM I n for mat ion te a m who covered the President’s earlier activity at the Mindanao State University where he graced the groundbreaking rites for the P45-million Information Technolog y building got stuck in traffic and were not allowed to enter the gym anymore. The President went up the stage at 11:19 a.m. for the “President Benigno S. Aquino III meeting with local leaders and the community,” spoke for 31 minutes, from 11:42 a.m. to 12:13 noon, and had a seven-minute photo session raising hands of candidates for various posts. He left the stage at 12:20 noon. Power outage Lanao del Sur Governor Mamintal Adiong, Jr. opened his speech at 11:20 a.m. by saying it was the President’s first visit and that even if he was not able to campaign for himself here in the 2010 polls, Lanao del Sur delivered a landslide victory for him. Adiong narrated how the province has been consistently supporting the Aquinos, and how the President’s father who exposed the Jabidah Massacre, was “tunay na tagapag ta ng gol ng mga Muslim” (true defender of the Muslims). Just as he was talking about how the President ’s mot her, t he former President Corazon Aquino, supported Muslims, the electricity went off at 11:30 a.m. The power outage took 34 seconds. Within that period, the President was whisked off the stage by the Presidential Security Group. OIC ARMM Governor Mujiv Hata ma n told MindaNews in a text message Monday night that “before the brownout, plan na talaga palabas for practice Maranao nya” (it was already planned that he would go out to practice his Maranao). The President returned onstage at 11:41 a.m., after Hataman’s speech. No senatorial bets None of the President’s 12 s enator ia l b e t s w a s with the President. Only fou r ca nd idates sent representatives: Senator Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel sent his brother Jac; former Senator Ramon Magsaysay, Jr., sent his son, Francisco; Paolo Benigno Aquino sent his wife Maria Fatima; and Risa Hontiveros sent his nephew, Luis who ended his speech by dancing to the tune of Hontiveros’ campaign jingle. The President was accompanied by Tr a n s p o r t a t i o n a n d Communication Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya, Energy Secretary Jericho Petilla, and Senator Franklin Drilon. Adiong told the crowd that the Aquino administration has given the province “over

P400-million” in projects. He assured Hataman of the province’s support. “Buo ang aming supporta kay Mujiv Hataman,” (We give our full support to Mujiv Hataman), he said. Hataman, who lost his bid to become governor of Basilan in 2010, is running for the five-province, twocity ARMM, against former Sultan Kudarat Governor Pax Mangudadatu and Moro National Liberation Front founder and former ARMM Governor Nur Misuari. Hataman’s running mate is Adiong’s cousin, Haroun Alrashid Alonto Lucman, former AR MM Loca l Governments Secretary. Hat a m a n re fere d to A d i o n g a s “c a m p a i g n manager ko” and said he was sure that with Adiong around, there would be a landslide victory for the Liberal party candidates for senate, the ARMM and the province. ‘Tunay na tuwid’ He said in past elections, no President of this country came down to their areas to campaign for genuine reform. What past administrations did, he noted, was to call for the leaders and dictate to them what the Palace wants. Hataman said the President and the Liberal Party would not dictate on them because they believe that “tayo ang tunay na tuwid dito sa ARMM” (we are on the right path here in ARMM). In Pilipino, Hataman said: “There is now genuine reform in the elections here in the ARMM, unlike in the past when the crooked ways were made more crooked, the losers were made winners. But now, our v ictor y is genuine, the President is here – we are really on the right path in the coming elections.” Hataman narrated how ARMM was “kinamumuhian” (despised) by the nation because a lleged ly, t here were no real elections in the ARMM, only the leaders were voting, and the elections were just about money. Next month’s election, he said, will be “tuwid na halalan.” Hataman said he would be happy if he won “dahil sa tunay na boto” (because of genuine vote) and would rather not win if the means to get the vote is questionable. He spoke of “tunay na reporma” (genuine reform) in the ARMM, of how the i mpossible had become possible. “Saan po tayo pupunta?” (where will we go?), he asked the crowd. Would the people wa nt someone who has proven his worth or those who are just coming in “now that the ARMM has been reformed.” “Tayo ang nagsakripisyo. Tayo ang nagtanim. Tayo ang nag-ani. Tayo ang nagsaing ngayon may biglang pumasok sa ARMM …” (We sacrificed. We planted. We harvested. We cooked. Now someone will come into the ARMM….

“Dito tayo sa subok. Dito tayo sa tunay na daan” (Let’s go for the tested. Let’s go for the right path),” Hataman said as his supporters at the bleachers cheered “Hataman, Lucman.” First time, last time It will be the first time in the 23-year history of the ARMM that election of a new set of officials is synchronized with national and local elections. It is also supposed to be the last ARMM election as the government had signed with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front a Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro that would pave the way for the creation of a new autonomous political entity called the “Bangsamoro.” The new ent it y w i l l replace t he ARMM. The AR MM of f icia ls elected this year will not complete their three-year terms because the ARMM will be abolished as soon as the Bangsamoro Transition Authority is set up. Both government and the MILF hope this will be set up in late 2014 or early 2015. Speaking in Maranao, President Aquino urged the crowd to vote for the Liberal Party. “Kayo ang susi” (You are the key), he said. No copy of the President’s speech was made available. Hataman said he has no copy of the speech. The Presidential Communications Operations Office made no report about it on its website. It is not also available in the Official Gazette website. In his speech, t he President introduced his candidates, talked brief ly about the reforms going on in the ARMM, claimed there are no more “ghost schools,” “ghost teachers,” “ghost students” but “tunay na paaralan, tunay na ospital” (real schools, real hospitals).

He sp oke ab out t he projects in the province and cited the peace process as well. But only a few in the crowd could hear him loud and clear. (MindaNews)

Exams... from page 3

C h r i s t i n e Pa l a n g re Catigan, UP-Visayas, Iloilo City (90.20%) Amelia Obar Guansing, Araullo University (90.20%) Philip Amiel Briones Lopez, Lpu-St. Cabrini College Of Allied Medicine, Inc. (90.20%) Al Kevin Nunez Lumanas, Holy Cross of Davao College (90.20%) Angielo Labajo Pahamutang, Talisay City College (90.20%) The Board for Professional Teachers is composed of Dr. Rosita L. Navarro, Chair ; Dr. Reynaldo T. Peña and Dr. Paz I. Lucido as members. Results of the LET are available at the PRC website. Registration for the issuance of Professional Identification Card and Certificate of Registration will start on April 29, the PRC said. Those who passed must bring a duly accomplished Oath Form or Panunumpa ng Propesyonal; latest Community Tax Certificate or cedula; metered documentary stamp for the Oath Form; and the initial registration fee of P600 and annual registration fee of P450 for 2013-2016. The PRC said the y “should personally register and sign in the roster of registered professionals.” The dates and venues for the oathtaking ceremonies of the passers will be announced later, the PRC said. (MindaNews)

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Wednesday April 24, 2013

Villar thanks ‘White Vote Movement’ endorsement FORMER Las Pinas Rep. Cynthia Villar thanked the ‘White Vote Movement’ after its spokesperson, El Shaddai leader and founder, Bro. Mike Velarde, officially announced and endorsed the Catholic lay groups’ support to her senatorial candidacy and five other senatoriables during their prayer rally in Paranaque City recently. “I am thankful for the trust and support of all the members of the White Vote Movement,” said Villar. The White Vote Movement is the grassroot campaign recently launched by Catholic lay organizations, including the charismatic movement El Shaddai Movement, which extolled of 6 million members nationwide. Having been chosen among the 32 senatorial candidates in the coming May elections, Villar said she feels honored and humbled. “I welcome every support, whether big or small. Every vote counts,” stressed Villar who is running for senator under the Nacionalista PartyTeam PNoy. Villar, who has gained the moniker “Misis HanepBuhay”, sees any support as “more than a promise or actual vote.” She noted that trust comes with the support. “It encompasses the trust that the one being supported will become a voice, an ally or a

partner to pursue advocacies and goals,” related Villar. Because of this, Villar committed to live up to the trust and support afforded to her by the White Vote Movement. Villar said she shares the advocacies of the White Vote Movement—pro –life and pro-family. She likewise averred that the endorsement from such a ‘huge and influential’ organization strengthens her resolve to work harder to win the elections and continue her programs to uplift the lives of our people, especially the poor. In making their endorsement, Velarde said they also considered the winnability of a senatorial candidate aside from conviction on life and family. The three-term former congresswoman has consistently landed in the Top 12 senatorial preferences of voters based on various election surveys.

“I am thankful for the trust and support of all the members of the White Vote Movement.”

Misis Hanepbuhay Cynthia Villar, along with five other senatorial candidates, namely JV Ejercito, Gregorio Honasan, Mitos Magsaysay, Antonio Trillanes IV and Koko Pimentel, was endorsed by the White Vote Movement, through its spokesperson Bro. Mike Velarde, founder of charismatic group El Shaddai.

Villar welcomes Lakas endorsement, calls for bipartisan approach to reforms in next 3 years

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Nacionalista Party-Team Pnoy senatorial candidate and former Las Pinay Rep. Cynthia Villar today welcomed the endorsement extended to her by the Lakas-Christian and Muslim Democrats (LakasCMD) and said she hoped the 16th Congress would take a bipartisan approach towards President Aquino’s reform agenda in the next three years. Villar, one of the NP’s re pre s e nt at i v e s i n t h e Liberal Party-led Team Pnoy senatorial slate, said she has always maintained that political parties, whether from the administration or from the opposition, should set aside political differences and adopt a bipartisan approach to reform matters such as poverty alleviation, jobs creations and the delivery of basic social services.

“I am g r at e f u l an d humbled by the endorsement extended by the Lakas-CMD to my candidacy and I will do my best to live up to their expectations when I am given the chance to serve in the Philippine Senate,” Villar, also known as Misis Hanep Buhay, said. ‘I am confident that the endorsement of my candidacy is a reflection of their endorsement for my advocacies for better government programs in creating business opportunities for small and medium scale enterprises, proving more j obs for Filipinos and the more effective delivery of basic services for the poor,” she added. On Wednesday, the LakasCMD named four more senatorial candidates that the party will support in the upcoming May 13 polls. Aside from Villar, the party also endorsed Nancy Binay and former Senator Richard ‘Dick’ Gordon from the United Nationalist Alliance (UNA), and Eddie Villanueva, the lone candidate of Bangon Pilipinas Party. Last week, Lakas-NCD endorsed Aurora Rep. Juan Edgardo ‘Sonny’ Angara and Grace Poe from Team PNoy, and Zambales Rep. Milagros

‘Mitos’ Magsaysay, San Juan City Rep. JV Ejercito, Cagayan Rep. Jack Enrile and re-electionist Senator Gringo Honasan, who are all running under UNA. Leyte Rep. Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, president of Lakas-CMD, said they have been chosen based on their competence as “congressional leaders and championing people’s interests, especially in showing sympathy and extending assistance” to the constituents of Lakas-CMD members whose districts had been hit by natural disasters. With the Lakas-CMD endorsement, Villar said she was embolden to push for a bipartisan approach to the implementation of President Aquino reform agenda in the remaining three years of his administration. “We, in the Nacionalista Party, will vigorously pursue a bipartisan approach in the forthcoming 16th Congress on how we can help the President implement his reform programs especially in the areas of poverty alleviation, jobs creations and the delivery of basic social services,” Villar said. “We should in fact unite so that the nation can move forward in the next three years of the Aquino administration,” she added.