Articles and Columns Feb22 to 28

Happy WeekendGina P. Dizon Melodies of the Binangi The ‘panag-atep di binangi’ held February 26 highlighted the launching of the Ayyoweng di Lambak Ed Tadian celebrated March 6-8. The event let media practitioners from Baguio and Mountain Province see for themselves the covering of the roof and the building of the traditional house locally termed ‘binangi’. Called inatep, binatang, gino-on, or sinebey to other parts of Mountain Province, the ‘binangi’ measuring 20 ft high composes three levels from the basement serving as receiving porch to the second level which is the enclosed four by four meter structure serving as the cooking and sleeping quarters. The second level is reached by climbing on a tetey (ladder) to the cooking and dining area. Above the cooking area and that part below the roof locates the section where palay is stored. The binangi tells of harmony and consistency with nature. Materials used are sourced from the community resources, from plants grown in the forest and other materials the household needs. The locally grown and produced materials are sustained in their growth with nature taking care of nature and the people taking care of the very materials used for their very own housing. Every material used in the construction of the ‘binangi’ is indigenous to the community from the posts to the sidings to the roofing to the materials which bind materials together. There is no nil to keep wood or bamboo together. “A binangi does not find a single metal”, said Tadian Mayor Anthony Wooden. No metal is found to fasten wood together or cover any part of the house. Must be that there is nothing metal in an indigenous world. The sidings of the house is made of bundles (betek) of cogon grass locally called ‘goon’ fastened together in sticks called ‘pa-o’ the strips or ‘la-ut’ done by men in an act called ‘owasan’. (I did not see women stripping) The cogon grass changed at least every after two years makes the house always durable in whatever weather be it hot or cold or in extreme conditions. “When the weather is sultry warm, the inside of the house is cold and when the weather is cold, the inside of the house is warm”, said binangi researcher Fortunata Guiamas. There must be something in the cogon grass which makes the temperature inside the house adaptable for the household dwelling inside the house. The house is simple much as life is simple for indigenous peoples noted in the Tadian household with its sustained relationship with the very resources in the forest they source their livelihood from- rice growing, raising organic legumes and crops and animal rising to include cattle, pigs, and chickens- with the values of culture intertwined in everyday activities and living. ‘The doors are not locked and there is no story of stealing’, Guiamas said. The house tells of contentment. Every part is devoid of anything consumerist or luxurious. Each parts of the house have a functional and practical use and nothing spoilt or whimsical. Inside the enclosed part of the house serving as the dining and sleeping quarters finds compartmentalized sections where the dapowan (cooking hearth is found. Located nearby the ‘dapowan’ is a clay pot for drinking water. Compartmentalized sections adjacent the sidings locates compartments inside the structure where clothing and blankets are kept. A long shelf surrounding the inside structure is built atop the compartments fastened close adjacent the sidings of the house used to place anything be it left overs or pots and plates. The dining area has double function with the ‘det-a’ or flooring used to sit on when eating and the floor also used as space for sleeping at night. A very small opening is located above the entrance to the second floor enough to keep air coming in and out with other openings in the cogon’s natural aeration spaces. Above the cooking/dining/sleeping area locates the rice granary where palay is stored. The binangi tells of unity and cooperation of the people in the village. We attended the ‘segep’ where construction of the binangi lasts a day with the community helping the household put up the house. The materials brought in by the community people have already been prepared by the household who stays in the forests for sometime collecting the materials until these are ready for building the structure. The women of the village bring the cogon and the sticks from the forest and the wood and ‘losongan’ or mortar carried by the men. Women bundle the cogon grass fastened by the men to the sticks wound tightly to accommodate the bundled cogon grass. Other men strip bamboo ropes and both men and women hand over the bundled cogon to men who climbed atop the second level of the structure to do the fastening. Towards the finishing of the binangi, he men climb up the roof and fasten this with bundled cogon. After half a day of work, we had lunch of miki and vegetables for viand coupled with rice. Everybody was happy with everyone taking part in the construction. We had our role of doing the documentation of the binangi completion and the press conference with the LGU officials. After the ‘segep’ the community celebrates the ‘ubaya’ signifying thanksgiving and completion of the house structure with the butchering of a pig and the people partaking of the meal. The organic way of life of the binangi is simple, uncomplicated. “There are only two binangi left in town”, Kayan councilor Joseph Cawilli said. Binangi for a house these days? Mayor Wooden encourages this and likewise open to the idea of binangi as home stays or cottages for visitors. Tadian abounds with a cultural and natural resource potentials beckoning ecotourism at its doors. With business and commercialization knocking at the doorsteps of Tadian, what is the response of the people? “This will be defined by the community’, Wooden said. The values of the binangi remain open to the village and who will embrace and live this with, beckoning living with community, working with the community, eating with and defining what life is in this contemporary world where information technology, tourism and business is taking its toll. Editorial Religious, gov’t, barangays form Cordi group for good governance The Ugnayan ng mga Barangay at Simbahan (UBAS) was formally launched in the Cordillera by the Department of Interior and Local Government “to develop good governance in barangays.” UBAS is a tripartite linkage between the government, the church and barangay leaders where information, volunteerism and participation flow freely among stakeholders towards sustainable development, according to their press statement. The said program is reportedly also an initiator for change with the church and barangays assisting the DILG in identifying areas that require improvement in social services and encouraging citizens’ participation in achieving goals. Michael Lawana, Liga ng mga Barangay regional president of the Cordillera said with launching of UBAS in the region, they can do more and strengthen relationship between barangays and the church According to Liga ng Barangay national president, Edmund Abesamis, the UBAS does not violate doctrine of separation of church and state since UBAS is recognition of the separation between the two sectors. “Why, because the word ugnayan itself connotes absence of Union- ugnayan negates unity,” Abesamis, a lawyer said. Undersecretary Austere Panadero of DILG said they choose barangays as a part of their tri-partite program on good governance because barangays are closest to the people. Panadero said the DILG is guided by the local government code and good governance anchored on transparency, accountability, and participation of private sectors to local government units. Bishop of Baguio and Benguet, Rev. Carlito Cenzon said LGUs should be empowered but it should empower barangays. The birth of the unique organization reportedly began with a partnership led by late DILG Sec. Jesse Robredo and Rev. Bishop Antonio Tobias in 2011 whose vision was to empower good governance through the grassroots and interfaith participation. DILG Sec. Mar Roxas was reportedly inspired to continue the legacy and strengthen the same partnership with renewed fervor, allowing the proverbial seed to take root grow and bear fruit. Well and good. It would be nice to see some concrete results in even one small barangay in the Cordillera which could be replicated. Perryscope Perry Diaz Obama vs. Putin: Can Obama survive Round 3? It wasn’t too long ago when President Barack Obama was the undisputed world leader since the end of the Cold War in 1989; he reigned over the greatest empire the world has ever known. But recently, he had become too complacent Lording it over a unipolar world order, confident that the sun will never set on Pax Americana. But little did Obama know that while he was basking in the glory of American exceptionalism, a militaristic Russia was slowly rising from the ashes of the defunct Soviet Union under the autocratic rule of Vladimir Putin, a former KGB spy of dubious provenance and questionable morals. Putin came to power in 1999 when then President Boris Yeltsin appointed him as Prime Minister. On December 31, 1999, Yeltsin abruptly resigned and Putin became Acting President. He was elected President in 2000 and reelected in 2004. Constitutionally prohibited to run for a third term, Putin stepped down. Dmitry Medvedev was elected in 2008 and he appointed Putin as Prime Minister. In 2008, Putin was termed out after serving two terms. He made a comeback in 2012 when he was elected to a third term. It was at that time that Putin had set his sights on the Soviet Union’s former republics and satellite states in what he calls as the “near abroad.” An opportunity for Putin to show his mettle presented itself when Obama — in an apparent demonstration of weakness – did not act when Syria crossed the “red line” he drew on Syria’s use of chemical weapons against the Syrian rebels. By failing to respond with the use of military force against Syria’s use of banned chemical weapons, Obama sent the wrong message not only to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad but also to the entire world, particularly to alAssad’s benefactor and protector, Vladimir Putin. Putin saw Obama’s wishy-washy hesitancy to act as an opening to engage him in geopolitical brinkmanship. And thus far, Putin is ahead in the game. Round 1 Their fight began when Putin sent Russian soldiers — with no identifying insignia on their uniforms — who came to be known as “little green men” – to Crimea. It didn’t take long for Putin to annex Crimea, which stunned the U.S. and her NATO allies. However, the U.S. and NATO had a chance to react with force to the Russian incursion – or as some say, “invasion” — but instead they stood down and allowed Putin to grab Crimea. This was a major victory for Putin because he could now deploy land-based nuclear missiles as well as missile-firing warships and submarines in the Black Sea that could reach NATO’s southern flank from Turkey to the Balkans, Italy, Spain and Portugal. Russia’s Crimean territorial grab diminished the U.S.’s credibility as the world’s superpower. For the first time since the end of World War II, the U.S. failed to protect her geopolitical interests since the Cuban missile crisis in 1962 when the Soviet Union attempted to deploy nuclear missiles 90 miles from U.S. mainland. Simply put, with Putin breathing down NATO’s southern flank, it puts the 28-member Atlantic alliance on notice that Russia would be a power – economically and militarily — to be reckoned with in the Mediterranean Basin. It did not then come as a surprise when it was announced that Russia is holding bilateral negotiations with Greece, Cyprus, and Egypt that could establish Russia’s military presence in the Mediterranean. Right now, Russia and Greece are in the midst of negotiating a financial bailout, which could result in Greece getting out of NATO and the European Union (EU). If that happens, it would break NATO’s defenses on her southern periphery. Russia is also holding bilateral negotiations with another EU member, Cyprus, which is having financial problems. Russia is offering financial aid; however, she also wants to station air and naval assets on Cypriot ostensibly for “humanitarian” reasons. These Russian bases would be located near the Akrotiri Air base where British personnel are stationed to support ongoing operations in the Middle East, which makes one wonder: What would Cyprus do in the event Russia and NATO went to war? The specter of the tiny island of Cyprus becoming one bloody – and possibly nuclear — battlefield should be a good enough reason for Cyprus to reject Russian military presence on her territory. Meanwhile, not too far away, Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sisi gave Putin a “hero’s welcome” in Cairo. They discussed a slew of economic and military deals including the purchase of MiG-29 fighter jets and attack helicopters worth $3.5 billion. Hollande. A stalemate would result in a “frozen conflict. ceasefire agreement allowed armed combatants to stay within their side of the exclusion zone.’s military aid to Egypt was $1. Belarus. Belarus.” just like what happened in Georgia and Moldova when Putin sent Russian “peacekeepers” – or occupation troops? — to preserve “peace” between these countries and the self-proclaimed republics that broke away. they agreed on a ceasefire and a number of measures to achieve peace in Ukraine. which Russia. But the way Putin played his game is that whether the ceasefire would hold or not. Dizon . which makes one wonder if the U. had been sending billions in military aid to Egypt for the past three decades! Last year.5 billion. Latvia. after a marathon 17-hour summit of Putin. Heavy weapons would be withdrawn from the exclusion zone. They agree to establish an “exclusion zone” – 200 kilometers long and 50-70 kilometers wide – separating the two sides that would be policed by observers from the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) and a “joint contact group” of Russian and Ukrainian military personnel.” it may not be long before some European countries particularly those near Russia’s border would consider joining EEU as a means of self-preservation… unless the United States overcomes her fear of a resurgent Russia — whose unpredictable leader Vladimir Putin is bent in reclaiming Mother Russia’s glorious past – and use her might to stop Russian imperialism. Russia made a proposal to Europe: “Dump the U. Evidently. But no sooner had the ceasefire agreement been signed than Russian tanks.com) Behind the Scenes Alfred P. he wins. But does Obama have the cojones to lead? So far the scorecard shows 2-0 in favor of Putin. French President François Hollande.But the irony of this is that the U. German Chancellor Angela Merkel. and troops crossed the border into Ukraine. Obama lost Round 2 because he had a chance to take the bull by the horns when the Ukrainian government forces had the upper hand in fighting the Donetsk and Lugansk separatists. at the time the EEU was formed in January 2015. and Poroshenko had played into Putin’s game. The ceasefire called for heavy weapons from both sides to be withdrawn from a line drawn dividing the country into two regions – the government-occupied region on the western side and the Donbas region in the east controlled by the rebels. and Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko in Minsk.S. and Lithuania – and force them to join the Eurasian Economic Union (EEU). Interestingly. missile systems. Merkel. which is not unlike the demilitarized zone (DMZ) that divided North and South Korea since 1953 when the Korean War Armistice was signed.S.S. Poroshenko had to “surrender” the Donbas region to the Russian-backed separatists.” While it may sound ludicrous. Apparently. what is Putin up to next? There are strong indications that Putin would try to reclaim the Soviet Union’s three former Baltic republics – Estonia. were indirectly subsidizing Egypt’s arms deal with Russia? Round 2 Last February 12. the way Putin had been playing his game of “deceive and conquer. Round 3 After Ukraine. Can Obama survive Round 3? ([email protected]. the U. But due to Obama’s refusal to send lethal weapons to Ukraine to defend her territory. however. and Kazakhstan formed as an economic union similar to the EU. and join the Eurasian Economic Union. or simply a matter of the stomach. But that is not to say that I didn’t have strong bond with my Lola. and. de Guia. If you ever came around Lola’s house. Between her Soroptimist group. She was born here. and Lola did all she could to ensure that those changes were for the better. her YWCA groups and her various social engagements and trips abroad. but rather for the difficulty in having to select what to include. and if you had she would ask when and if you wouldn’t like to eat again. I could see that Lola was/is a goddessjust not a domestic one. or sit at home and go to bed early. About everyone. Not for lack of anything to say. you’re here. her girl scouts. She visited us in Sweden once. or that I struggled to find anything relatable about her. I rarely ever found Lola at a loss for company or at a loss for words. social and political (?) accomplishments as there are all around us and showcased in all these pictures and placards. that “oh. she would immediately offer you some food. granddaughter of former Baguio mayor and civic leader Virginia O. and dedicated her life to the growth and beauty of this city. and tried to as best as she could. Lola wanted to see to it that your needs were met. Lola cared a lot. but respected. Whether it was providing more profound help. as a result. you should eat!” As a child growing up in Lola’s house. you have probably been asked the question emblematic of Lola’s hospitality: “Kumain ka na?” If you hadn’t. Rarely did I walk down Session Road with her without someone coming up and greeting her. writes this week’s piece) *** I found it difficult to try and formulate what to say about my dear Lola. Lola cared about Baguio. own a lot of cats. The task of commemorating someone’s life in just a few minutes is difficult enough as it is. were sororities. ready to consciously form relationships. but I understood that Lola loved to help people. that I still consider true. de Guia (Ann de Guia Ericksson. She was a socialite. I was too much of a child to remember anything. She was not only well liked. She did not knit. grew up here.and my Lola… what a life she led! I will not enumerate all of my Lola’s civic. roots and all. and many came seeking her help on all sorts of matters.A granddaughter’s tribute to Virginia O. and remained one well into her late years. constantly peopled. Lola was a lakwachera and layas. She came back clutching a whole salad head. I often heard of Lola helping someone with some problem they may have had. Lola was old (and I say “old” because Lola didn’t really become “old” in the true sense of the word until about 8 years ago) and frail. Lola never cooked or baked. but a matter of fact statement. Lola was not an ordinary lola. I cannot imagine a life more intrinsically entwined to something as Lola’s was to the City of Baguio.instead I thought I would share with you my understanding of her as a granddaughter to her grandmother. Her house was always a whirl of people. soil crumbling . Lola was 74 years old when I was born. who just passed away. wanting to help out with the preparation of the food. I have many strong impressions of her from my childhood. she suggested that she would pick some salad from the garden. She watched it grow and change. With all her social engagements and civic duties. during the years when she was still very active. The details of these affairs slipped through my child’s naïve head. And by the time I became adult. and she always seemed to know what to say in every situation. Sometimes it wasn’t even a question. how she had to work 3 time as as hard to prove her worth) and through the things she had done (her campaigning for women’s suffrage). he is adorable. that a kind and helpful woman is a person to be respected. She was a loving wife and mother to 4 children. and later a loving Lola to her grand and great-grandchildren. his body is long and his legs short and stubby. But even if I was unable to fully understand the context in which Lola had made here name. grace and intelligence. named him after his favorite toon show. I cannot express to you how incredibly important it is for a little girl to have someone such as Lola to look up to. This small mutt has a thick brown with shades of black fur. surrounded by men). Lola’s life. Dacawi about an addition to his young family. ( the first and only female mayor. for all of your love. Anyway.sharing all of this with me Lola . in my eyes. that a forthright and intelligent woman is a beautiful woman. Angela if she knew of a pooch we could adopt. in every sense of the word. Lola pulled all of this off with a grace and style very few possess today – her poised and incredible sense of style is evident in all these pictures (I think its safe to say. What’s great about his fur is that it doesn’t shed off. is something I could really appreciate when I became a little older. We needed to change our tail wagger’s name because it was identical with our neighbor’s. but at last we have a dog.all over our kitchen floor. friendly and smart. When he is looking up he loks like a bat-eared fox. but with a grin stretching from ear to ear. Angela asked another neighbor. deep down. And then you can fold his ers outwardly to give him a new look. Dylan. Like most dogs. For all of this. Folks here call her the witch becuase every year she dressed up to be the befana. I thank you. Dacawi Oggy Doggy (We yield this space for a piece from my son Johann D. She showed me that a woman could be powerful. The difficulty we had before contradicts how easy we got Oggy. – RD) It has been quite long. She showed me that an ambitious woman can still be a loving mother. your direction. Probably because he is still young. Oggy and the Cockroaches. The significance of all she had accomplished in becoming mayor and councilor at a time when the world was run solely by men. You literally had it all Lola. Benchwarmer Ramon S. Lola was a fierce. But then again. His brother Lukie protested because the story of the show is a cat and he suffers from watching it all the time. you look better than most of us in this room). My wife asked our neighbor. that even now Lola. and Paula had a rtoerh. for she succeeded in creating a warm home. Oggy’s ears are folded. and her brother knew of a friend who has this niece who had dogs that were up for adoption. through the things I heard of about her. an intimation of it seeped into my child’s brain through the pictures I saw of her ( a sole woman. Normally. what it meant for me as a little girl to hear of these things accomplished by my Lola a woman. I hadn’t the heart to tell her she had done it wrong. Paula. strong woman. . our younger son. is a lesson in being a woman. But I learned that Lola’s shortcomings when it came to house tasks hardly mattered. he liked it. fiercely independent and still loving and warm. influential. . dictates and manipulation. especially those actually occupied and in the possession of indigenous communities. Dylan had covered them with kitchen towels. We didn’t expect that we would bring him home that day. It was kind of signora Paula to give us some tips on how to train Oggy. and usually win the first round in a court case. After we dried him up. I do not know how true this is but a lawyer-friend admitted that lawyers do not lie in court but they do not tell the correct things. More than a hundred years ago after Spain ceded these islands to the United States and after we were told many times over that no one will be deprived of life. On his second night here in his new home. Rowena took mommy dog out because. (e-mail: jhndacawi@yahoo. bully court personnel to the extent of filing cases against them if they do not get what they want.. our dog comes to my wife and me.) Letters from the Agno March L. or cooperatively turns the court into a venue for a one-sided fight. Oggy finds Dylan for his rough-and-tumble ways. **** Here’s what’s going on with Oggy. he woke my wife up at two in the morning. then it is up to the judge if he or she reacts correctly. Thy brought the dog in the late evening and at around 2 a. When I went to see the incident. like her offspring. When it’s play time. When I heard the dog food was “organic”. Both dogs were finally reunited in the afternoon. too.m.It rained like cats and dogs when we went to visit Oggy. who decided to adopt his mom.it for comments. but my wife bathed him anyway. we still find cases where lands. technically this time. nor be denied equal protection of the laws. And the signora insisted Oggy to eat organic. Later in the day. Oggy was like doing somersaults and endlessly licking her mom who they named Miley. or property without due process of law. are being grabbed by prominent parties with the support of counsels through courts that act as eager and willing partners. In many instances they twist the facts to suit their needs. We know little about the dog really. of course.m he went to poop and pee in the boys’ bedroom. That was it. Mothyer dog and son senses that night they were close to each other. . Oggy was whining and walking back and forth. She also gave us a leash and dog food. The mother of the young lady who owns Oggy was like. And when nature calls. Again the winning is secured through influence. the losing party files an appeal but it loses again. Lovelyn was still tipsy form our night cap earlier that evening. Then she went back to bed and later deal with whatever disaster we’d find in the morning. The mongrel likes Lukie’s calmness and goes to him for a nap. I thought it would be traumatic for the dog to have a bath. because the appeal is dismissed right away and the other side is not given the chance to argue. liberty. Fianza Twisted justice on Ibaloy Day Belated happy Ibaloy Day! Some lawyers I know use their influence and popularity. we learned that the former owner of our dog came last night to bring Oggy’s mom to our neighbor. My wife thought he needed to pee but she couldn’t get herself up to take our poor canine out. she was agitated. “take him and leave in a politely kind of way” during the visit. going in and out the bedrooms. Rowena. I felt good about it and hoped that they would soon learn toclean it up. Normally. my mind told me organic is “not cheap”. There was nothing clean when we woke up and we wondered why Oggy was agitated. We didn’t know if he was vaccinated and they said he was three months old. any new application for a title over the said land can now freely be issued. But in a case that has to be won by all means. only one person makes the laws or decides the case and we no longer live in a “government of laws” but of men. and therefore. Although often times. depending on the relationship of those administering the laws and those against whom so-called court decisions are to be enforced. Next. all IP lands will be lost! Light at the end of the tunnel Roger D. The land applied for must also have an approved plan and technical description. If this keeps on. have not stepped on the land. there are records with the DENR that show that some land applications that were issued titles were never processed in the District Lands Office concerned. When asked why they do not know where the land is located. In Baguio and Benguet. the expert manipulator. In cases where both claimants have no title over the land.In cases involving Ibaloy lands in Baguio and Benguet. Another excuse for land speculators is that they won a land dispute case in court and present a paper title. Then the supporting documents and necessary attachments to the “fake” title come later. Needless to say that a land application that has been processed and issued a title comes under suspicion if the applicant has never seen the land he applied for. What I understand is that laws should be applied fairly to everyone without consideration of positions.000 square meters. the lot applicants do not even know the location of the land applied for. Sinot . We come under the laws of the influential. In some cases. and have constructed a house on the land where his family is actually residing. research work showed that there are supposed Deeds of Sale that are not recorded with the proper offices so that these do not become official and are of no value. land speculators are not aware that forested lands in the Cordillera or those certified by the DENR as timberland are not alienable and not disposable through bidding except by IPs who are the actual occupants of the land. or the king who is allowed to decide which decisions are to be enforced. The applicant must have occupied in good faith the land applied for. There is also a suspicion of anomaly in the sale if the buyer does not know the location of the land that he bought. This time. And since there are neither records of a title nor other documents found in the DENR offices. Lawyers and judges know these. nor are there any files found in the Land Management Office. But lands acquired through MSA or the courts have requirements. a government of men would be subjective. no folder of documents for the land cannot be found in any DENR office because the documents have to be hidden from scrutiny. In such case. The one who occupies the land in good faith has better rights as against someone who possesses doubtful documents or has recently acquired a land title without the knowledge of the one in possession. they will say that they are innocent buyers from a party who sold it to them. By the way. the situation changes. lands cleanly acquired under MSA are limited to 1. but based on complete and genuine requirements. The overused excuse of land grabbers is that they acquire the land through miscellaneous sales applications and public bidding. or technical descriptions of the concerning said lands as patented were never plotted in the projection map. Even the survey plans if there are any. reputations or personal relationships with others. the land is issued a title administratively or through a manipulated bidding process. there are many factors to consider like actual possession and occupation. In contrast. Maybe someday his ancestors will appear in his dream and we will see Jackson doing a ritual for his ancestors in front of city hall.The month of February has a lot of markings. the last day of which was officially declared as Ibaloy Day with this year’s theme ADIVAY SHI AVONG: “Daing. If only the late Cecil Okubo Afable of the Baguio Midland Courier was around. During the three-day celebration. Around a thousand or more walked the historical road with pride from the Convention Center down Session Road with their traditional attires. 2014. was the launching of a book “Indigenous Earth Wisdom” by Ms. social institutions and legal system. Tahal tan Semek ni Ivadoy”. In the early days of cattle raising. On the first day was a parade marked with the blowing of a cow horn loud enough to be heard. His CD albums are now available at the record bars in Baguio. Sunday. You will love his songs since these are original compositions. preserve and transmit existence as a people. Mateo Carino was the man who fought all the way to the higher courts his land where John Hay was established. He and his siblings were members of “Bagiw”. including the first week of March. February 22. We have the Chinese New Year. The author is one of the Council of Elders of Baguio from the Loakan cluster area. And the just concluded Ibaloy Day Celebration that is a three-day activity from February 21 to 23.ASIN HOT SPRINGS. have a historical continuity with pre-invasion and pre-colonial societies. He won without seeing the fruit of his fight. consider themselves distinct from other sectors of society living in the same part of the same territory. the Council of Elders of Baguio and Council of Elders per clusters . a Baguio Band which rocked the clubs with their Rollling Stone attires. once again said at the program that the site of the Ibaloy Garden is originally owned by them but their clan have decided that this be used not by the clan alone but by the Ibaloys of Baguio and Benguet. Tuba . The book is a recollection of how Baguio was preserved and maintained in the early days. fondly called as Manang Bridz and a descendant of Mateo Carino. I noticed the streamer of a man in a kuval (G-string) and Americana riding on a horse beside a corral where cows are grouped. Vicky Macay. It states that lands held since time immemorial are private lands. in accordance with their own cultural patterns. History tells that he was the hero behind the Carino Doctrine. Former NCIP Chair Zenaida Bridgette Hamada Pawid. As a descendant of the great old man Piraso. The horn-blowing jumpstarts the parade. a professor of PMA from Loakan also launched his CD Album entitled “IKUL” an Ibaloy term for “tail”. she would say “Amen” to that pronouncement. he recalls that his grandfather Batu was buried at the foot of the site of city hall. Onjon ni Ivadoy president Jackson Chiday and Leopoldo Lamsis. just like a trumpet sound that announces the arrival of the king or the royal family.” Before the program. We have the “Panagbenga Festival that is a month and a half activity. The book written by manang Vicky gives importance to the “Kakad kajuan” forested mountains. the vice-president led the parade of the descendants of early settlers of Baguio and Benguet. They are not a dominant sector of society but are determined to develop. fed with salt and branded. shall we still see a house of the old man on this site if the Americans went to some other aside of Baguio? According to manong Jackson. the cowboys blow their horn many times that people on the other mountain get to their feet and bow as a sign of respect to an activity. Andrew “Bobby” Carantes. I took a second look at the Casa Vallejo and asked myself. The United Nations refers to Indigenous People as the “People who occupy a distinct territory. There is a succession of events and activities for local and foreign a tourists who find their way to Baguio. Brain Masweng. Maximo Dalog. requesting Uera’s removal from his post but has not yet received any reply or acknowledgment from her office.includes people.the Land. forests and the animals. Hail to the Onjon ni Ivadoy! Ecija town mayor ousted by OMB remains in office PANTABANGAN. the OMB found Uera administratively liable for grave misconduct and grave abuse of authority for having unilaterally suspended and terminated the 44 municipal employees. The late senator Dr. The aggrieved employees are now questioning why – despite the OMB having transmitted its ruling to the office of Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Mar Roxas – Uera continues to hold office and dispense the functions of mayor. Nueva Ecija — Four months have passed since the Office of the Ombudsman ordered the dismissal of Mayor Lucio Uera of this town for having illegally suspended and dismissed 44 permanent municipal employees. whose mother’s roots is Ibaloy. In its joint resolution issued in June 2013. Otherwise. IPs shall cease to exist as a distinct peoples. . Happy trails to all Ibalois. Gov.” Alison Villaflor.of Baguio were inducted by the NCIP-Regional Hearing Officer. This is their environment in its totality. — Sheen Crisologo Sec Singson to grace Begnas di Bauko fest BAUKO. but he has since remained in office. their dwelling. Atty.” His speech molded the IPRA Law. Leonard Mayaen and Bauko Mayor Abraham B. Mayor Mauricio Domogan said. Villaflor has repeatedly written to Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales. These territories . the waters and the air. Singson will be welcomed by Rep. one of the complainants said. for authoring February 23 as official day for Ibaloys. and the Carino Clan represented by Manang Bridgette for allowing their land to be used as the Ibaloy Heritage Garden. Their existence as Indigenous people is manifested in their own lives through political. plants. socio-cultural and spiritual practices. The IPs’ culture is the living and irrefutable proof of this. Akilit. asserting land rights to it. For his part. Their ancestors had territories over which they ruled themselves and related with other tribes. Mountain province — This scenic town is set to celebrate its Begnas Festival on March 12-14 at Bauko Catholic High School at Poblacion to be highlighted by inauguration of Mabaay-Abatan tourism road with Highways Secretary Rogelio Singson cutting the ribbon. Their survival depends on securing or acquiring land rights. “The IPs are the off springs and the heirs of the peoples who have first inhabited and cared for the land before any central government was established. A salute to Councilor Isabelo “Poppo” Cosalan Jr. he recognized what the law provides in the IPRA law and will see to it that the Ibaloy day will be a part of the Panagbenga Festival next year. economic. Juan Flavier said. the mountains. “I am very concerned about this because I received reports that Mayor Uera has been telling people that he cannot be removed from office because he has connections (within the Ombudsman). The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology said the center of the quake was about 13 kilometers southeast of this city. Corpuz said the van driver. Activities were conducted before the begnas . Jay-ar Baltazar and Adriano Jove were declared dead on arrival at the Nuestra Señora de Piat District Hospital while Dante Fernandez and Mark Marzan were said to be in critical condition at the Cagayan Valley Medical Center. it was “slightly felt” at Intensity 2 in Dagupan City in Pangasinan and Intensity 1 or “scarcely perceptible” in Palayan City.With the theme “Menpaek ya mamang-et ay Ibauko.” Meanwhile. but caused no casualties or damage to property. Inauguration and launching of the Agro-industrial fair is set at municipal ground March 2-14. which is relatively weak. gameng di nsiposdan da alapo” (Diligent and vigilant people of Bauko. Reports said the victims. which is considered moderately strong.” Intensity 3 was felt in Itogon. A job fair will also be conducted March 9-10 at same venue. A trek to Bauko Spanish Trail to the camping site of Balintaugan culminating at the “Lepas di ipadogan” in Bagnen Oriente (festival) took place Feb. Begnas di iBauko is one of cultural festivities celebrated annually by the municipality com foundation day. according to case investigator PO3 Jonathan Corpuz. Benguet. “but some people may experience dizziness and nausea. it aims to strengthen participation and bonding of its 22 barangays.m.— Raymund Catindig 4. There was no significant disruption of classes in this city and the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines said that power transmission service was normal. gem of the native land). Nueva Ecija. who has yet to be identified. Benguet at Intensity 4. It was felt strongest in this city and La Trinidad. The stage play is about responsible utilization and nurturing of natural resources. were traveling along the highway in Barangay Villa Laida when they were sideswiped by the van at around 11 p. nearby provinces BAGUIO CITY — Classes started promptly and without fuzz Tuesday morning shortly after some panic when a magnitude 4. A musical-theater presentation of Bauko government employees in a stage play entitled “Tawid di litagwan” under the direction of Ventura Betot will also be featured. who were on a motorcycle driven by Jove. Drug couple busted .1 quake jolts Baguio. It will feature the cultural presentation of barangays. 20. escaped after the accident. Phivolcs said such intensity is comparable with the “vibration of a passing heavy truck that is felt by people indoors and some people outdoors and may awaken light sleepers.m. 20-21.— Arsenia Addon 2 die as van hits motorcycle TUGUEGARAO CITY – Two persons died while two others were injured when their motorcycle was hit by a van in Tuao town Feb.1 earthquake rocked this city at 7:14 a. Besao and Bontoc. The towns of Bauko. 24 each and Sagada.m. here night of Feb. Mountain Province State Polytechnic College – 50. 33. Lasdacan said all the Public Employment Service Officers in municipalities were instructed to start screening student applicants and process the employment documents of qualified applicants in time for their employment in April. Taguig City. Besao.000 bill used in the buy-bust operation around 7:30 p. MPSPC and Xijen College of Mountain Province will employ students for 40 days. Senior Insp. identified the suspects as Jabar Masorong. both of Barameda Street. college. assorted bullets. income tax return of parents or certification from the barangay stating that the income of the family does not exceed the poverty thresh hold. Students to be employed by Natonin and Paracelis will work for 25 days and 22 days in Sabangan. — Juliet Saley Kalinga gov calls for peace. Beleo Mt Province to employ 878 studes under SPES BONTOC. students are paid a salary computed based on the given wage rate of each of the employers. grades for first semester for college students and latest card of previous year for high school students. Student applicants are required to submit complete documents such as original/certified true photocopy of birth or baptismal certificate. technology or vocational students and drop-outs who intend to continue their studies. Bontoc. and his wife Asnaimah Macalanggan-Masorong. a hand grenade. Barlig. provincial government . La Union — A couple from Taguig City was busted in Barangay Guinabang. provincial government and office of the vice governor will hire students for 20 days.” a . The SPES is a regular annual job creation program of the national government intended for the poor but deserving students to augment their school fees by providing them work during summer vacation. ammunition and explosives. unity in Ullalim fest address . facing a string of criminal charges. Tadian – 78. local deputy police chief. Sabangan – 49. 22 for possession of drugs. the provincial government unit. Paracelis – 66. They are now detained at the Bacnotan Municipal Jail. 32. 60 percent will be paid by the employer in cash while the remaining 40 percent of the salary will be paid by DOLE in the form of education voucher. — Erwin G.145. Mountain Province — In support to the Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES) of the Department of Labor and Employment. Seized from them were 10 sachets of suspected “shabu. a “paltik” or homemade pistol. 20. Sagada. Of the total. Bauko -115. the municipality of Natonin pledged to hire 212 students. the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency said. guns. and a marked P1. Xijen College of Mountain Province and the Office of the Vice governor will employ 25 students each. This program is open to all qualified high school.BACNOTAN. according to DOLE Provincial Field Office Head Samuel Lasdacan.38-caliber gun. nine towns and two tertiary schools in the province will be employing 878 students this summer vacation. Reginaldo Dalipias. and Barlig – 45. Tadian. Under this program. Pangasinan — A new earthquake intensity meter has already been installed here for disaster preparedness and response. could ultimately stand as one for Kalinga. who in the midst of diversified beliefs and dreams.048. This year’s “awong chi ganza” was documented for possible entry in the Guinness World of Book Records. the “Strawberry Lane” will open at the Municipal Park where various strawberry by-products and other La Trinidad produce will also be offered for sale. Jocel C. Baac said. Baac urged people to take the “call of a thousand gongs a call for peace and unity” as the province celebrated its founding anniversary last week with the theme. “I urge you to bring the call beyond the borders of the province – to the rest of the Cordillera. On March 16. Benguet — As the Baguio Flower Festival heated up. which was provided by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) and Japan government. ‘our hearts can beat as one and act together to push our province and people forward to prosperity and development. The rhythm and tune produced from the thousand gongs could resound and despite varied tribal groupings. Rallying for peace and unity among tribes. Baac likened the harmony of the three thousand gongs to people of the province. is capable of perceiving movements or shaking during or after an earthquake. the nearby capital town of Benguet also launched last week its Strawberry Festival. The earthquake device is connected to a computer with an internet access that gathers information and transmits real-time data to Phivolcs database for an accurate description of an earthquake. Set to open in the first week of March just as Baguio’s Panagbenga is winding down. Strawberry Festival 2015 carries the theme “Valley of Colors: A Colourful Gathering and Merry-Making”. The device. Baac said.TABUK CITY. The formal opening is on March 6 that will start with an ecumenical service. La Trinidad officials headed by Mayor Edna Tabanda said the month-long event will kick-off on March 2 with the opening of Agro-Industrial Trade Fair and barangay booths at the public market grounds. . — Liezle Basa Iñigo La Trinidad launches Strawberry Festival LA TRINIDAD. nation and wherever it could reverberate”. Kalinga – Gov. — Larry Lopez New quake devise installed in Dagupan DAGUPAN CITY. It was launched last year and played by a thousand gong players from the different municipalities but this time.048 players coming from the various barangays. “Kalinga at 20: A Legacy of Peace and Unity” Baac made the call Monday before a multitude who watched the spectacular dance of “awong chi ganza” or call of a thousand gongs played by 3. Also featured will be strawberry cake festival and strawberry baking and pastries competition. municipalities and schools. organizers increased the number of players to 3. 000. and multi-cultural celebrations and rituals. Poblacion. linking . Municipal officials led by Mayor Glenn Prudenciano and Vice-mayor Joseph Angowan approved last quarter of 2014 the ordinance granting incentives to retiring BNSs upon reaching the optional or mandatory age of retirement. 25). and the search for the sweetest and biggest strawberry fruit are set on March 2. Eustaquio P. Coronation night for Mr. Tayum and Sulbec. The KALIPI members cited Gov. 6). four training sessions were conducted at Velasco. 19). incentive is P25. La Trinidad will be on March 28 at the Benguet State University grounds. mobilizing communitites for improvement of their nutrition. Abra. parade. The ordinance states the BNS at age 60 to 65 could apply for early retirement with an incentive of P20. renewal of marriage vows (Mar. 27). Ifugao — Retiring barangay nutrition scholars in this municipality now receive incentives from the local government. Bersamin for giving attention to needs of Abra women by funding their training programs and giving soft loans that are interest-free for capital to start small businesses. The governor assured the women of his continuing support for as long as these women will show their sincerity and diligence in implementing the skills they have acquired and really engage in business and not misuse the money that is loaned out to them. youth symposium. Cabaruyan. and various family. Daguioman. Pidigan. Jobs Fair (Mar. barangay night (Mar. – Maria Teresa Benas Ifugao town gives incentives to retiring nutrition scholars ALFONSO LISTA. Barangay nutrition scholars are trained community workers whose basic tasks include caring for the malnourished. and Ms. and at the compulsory retirement age of 65.The town’s foundation day on March 18 will be highlighted with street dancing.– More than 200 women in the province are being trained to engage in livelihood projects to augment their family incomes. A mini-float and drum and lyre parade and competition are scheduled on March 20.000. Noemi Belandres-Bachiller of the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office was trainer in food processing and preservation. Another training session is set at Cayapa. sports and adventure events. Tayum. — Arlene Abat 200 Abra women join livelihood training BANGUED. among others. Other scheduled-activities include: clean-up drive (Mar. They also thanked the PSWDO headed by Decimia D. Participants in the livelihood development trainings were members of the Kalipunan ng Liping Pilipina. La Trinidad Got Talent (Mar. Tabanda is inviting the public to come and celebrate with them and enjoy the various cultures and products of La Trinidad. the main program. Cabang for sustaining the program for the women by integrating and accommodating their project proposals for inclusion in the funding in their annual investment plan. Lagangilang . The annual Strawberry Fun Run and Walk with the most awaited ‘Duting tan Dukto’. This is in recognition to services of BNSs leading to reduction of malnutrition cases in the municipality and in gaining Green Banner Award on nutrition in the region. Acoustic Band Competition (Mar. 30 -31). Since January. 20). .gov. he hopes the Cordilleran farmers will get to experience what farmers of Sariaya experienced. Benguet. The program aims to attain sufficiency in food staples and sustain the growth of the lucrative local vegetable industry in the Cordillera which is to benefit the farmers. laid off and even returning overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) whose contracts abroad have been terminated to find new livelihood opportunities. BAPTC is patterned after the Sentrong Pamilihan in Sariaya in Quezon Province where. We will also be using social media for information dissemination. aims to help farmers of Cordillera access new technologies.000 new grads TUGUEGARAO CITY. Rodriguez Jr.ro2. Jasmine Ann Jacer and Christine Faye Kim DOLE 2 eyes hiring of 16. “That is why we will be organizing Job Fairs to bring employment right here in our doorstep.— Marcelo Lihgawon DA Sec urges farmers to join Benguet Agri-Pinoy trade scheme LA TRINIDAD. as in previous ones. as such.community with service providers. expected to be operational this first quarter of the year. his office sees through the holding of at least 50 job fairs throughout the region. local private employers and overseas recruitment agencies in order to help the fresh college graduates find suitable employment. and assisting in delivery of nutrition services. He said BAPTC would help the farmers be competitive in terms of production and quality of vegetables.000 youth to graduate from college and face the challenge of landing a job. siyang unang makikinabang” pertaining to the benefits the farmers would be getting in the said trading center.” — Liezle Basa Inigo Motorists reminded of ‘king of the road’ law . The job fairs. Cagayan — This year. DOLE Region 2 director.ph the schedules of Job Fairs. will be done in partnership with academic institutions. — Department of Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala urged Cordillera farmers to sell their crops under a business scheme of Benguet Agri-Pinoy Trading Center here. He said the job fairs are a venue for the unemployed. lower cost of production and wider market options under DA’s Agri-Pinoy Trading Center program.dole. Lawyer Sixto T.” Rodriguez said. “We will be posting in our website. Alcala. local government units. Rodriguez said. said the big population of young graduates calls for action and. www. the Department of Labor and Employment said Tuesday. however said farmers are not forced or mandated to join the BAPTC saying “Kung sinong unang nagtiwala. Alcala said he is now pushing trading centers that would allow development agricultural marketing in the country. according to Alcala. The BAPTC. But the job fair is not only for those graduating this month. Quintos. Region 2 expects 16. — Pryce E. hopefully the money saved can be appropriated for another overpass or underpass fronting Saint Louis University. They gave 5. The ordinance is yet to see full implementation given the fact that the Traffic Management Unit lacks personnel to man all pedestrian lanes. Signs of the ordinance are in place and augmentation forces which includes police interns are now anning different choke points in the city. following the speed limit will not only reduce number of vehicular accidents but will serve to discipline reckless drivers. Feb. Mayor Mauricio Domogan said. “This also applies to pedestrians.BAGUIO CITY – Folks here are once again clamoring for strict implementation of the city’s King of the Road Ordinance to discipline drivers and prevent vehicular accidents. speed limits and observe utmost care when driving a motor vehicle. 7 series of 1984 or the Comprehensive Transportation and Traffic Ordinance of the City of Baguio. As per Ordinance No. there order for city police to man crossings especially in crowded areas. Volunteers were also tapped to help in directing traffic especially during weekends and big city events.” A recent incident of over speeding and careless driving caused the death of a student in the city last month. .000 gift packs given to poor folks. Hotelier Peter Ng said they have a 2-classroom project at the Mabini Elementary School ready to be used next school year. Domogan said. it is unlawful for any person to drive in a built up area at a speed exceeding 30 kilometers per hour. 19 was at Bell Church with 5. PHILTOA made the vow during the five-day Island Philippines Fun Caravans Cordillera leg where some 50 tour operators and first-time visitors toured heritage sites and tourist destinations in the region. they should also use designated pedestrian lanes when crossing and drivers should yield to pedestrians .000 gift packs to indigent constituents. The mayor reminded drivers to follow traffic rules and regulations. “We have asked the Department of Public Works and Highways to cut savings from the pedestrian overpass being constructed by removing the planned elevator. This he said includes areas where frequent accidents are recorded. The ordinance requires motorists to slow down when approaching a pedestrian lane and fully stop for five seconds in all pedestrian crossings within the city. — Paul Rillorta Baguio Filipino-Chinese share gifts to poor folks BAGUIO CITY .” Domogan said. — Jho Arranz Tour operators promote Cordillera tourism sites BAGUIO CITY —The Philippine Tour Operators Association (PHILTOA) has given its commitment that its more than 300 members and affiliate transportation and hotel and restaurant groups will market the region’s unique features and attractions.” he said.The city government here in partnership with the Baguio Filipino-Chinese Community celebrated Spring Festival with gift sharing at Bakakeng Central headed by punong barangay Dan Palos Daniel. Beneficiaries were identified by the City Social Welfare and Development Office. he admitted power generation of the wind farm will decrease in the months of April and May due to the expected slowing of winds in the area. Ifugao where the local government pushes for the new concept of tourist destination and attraction – the “Open Air Museum. But. 1945 before he was flown to Camp John Hay in Baguio City for the signing of the surrender documents with the Americans the following day. Atok and La Trinidad towns.” Kiangan is the town where General Tomoyuki Yamashita actually surrendered in September 2. with the aim of boosting tourism promotion in the entire country. The concept is not just seeing the attraction. the local governments have programs and there are unique sites that can be found in the region. but being part of the attraction. then to Buguias. Ilocos Norte — The 150 megawatt (MW) wind farm constructed at 700-hectare land extending across three barangays of this town — Saoit. The caravan started in the Cordillera region. Visayas and in Mindanao. The project was the first one to be nominated by the DOE as eligible for the department’s feed-in tariff (FIT) scheme. The 150 MW Burgos Wind Farm. He said Cordillera is not difficult to sell as communities are ready. which is the second wind farm built in the province of Ilocos Norte by the Lopez-owned Energy Development Corporation (EDC). ending in Baguio. Lazaro BURGOS. He said their group wishes to contribute to the declaration of 2015 Visit Philippines’ “It’s more fun in the Philippines” of the DOT by coming up with the five caravans which they can use to design low cost tour packages for visitors. The next stop was Banaue and Banga-an Rice Terraces which are listed as UNESCO heritage sites. The Cordillera’s Heritage Warrior Caravan started in Kiangan.Province . Tantoco mentioned the great help of the wind farm to contribute for the solution of the power generation crisis in the country particularly in the Luzon grid. EDC president and chief operating officer Richard B. The group proceeded to Bontoc and Sagada in Mt. The wind farm had an estimated cost of US$450 million for its construction and had been commissioned by the Department of Energy (DOE) in November 2014. “Burgos Wind Farm is greatly contributing to power supply generation from November towards the end of March but upon the entry of the months of April and May in which this period . doing activities involving the tourists right at the heritage site. Burgos wind farm to ease Phl power crisis By Freddie G. PHILTOA president Cesar Cruz said the group advocates to help the domestic tourism industry through the caravan – an effective way to encourage local and foreign tourists to visit historic sites in the countryside. Poblacion and Nagsurot — promises to be part of the solution that will ease the looming electricity crisis in the country this year. then to Southern Tagalog. is the biggest wind farm in the country and in Southeast Asia. Central and Northern Luzon.The tourism caravan is the first activity of the PHILTOA. The wind farm can produce a total of 150MW that can supply the electricity requirement of at least 2. The city council adapted a resolution last week after heads of barangays complained against BCDA-JHMC’s restrictions which they said affected development programs of their communities. ‘Stop barring projects in barangays’ Baguio gov’t mulls charges vs BCDA-JHMC over John Hay BAGUIO CITY – The city government is mulling to file charges against the Bases Conversion Development Authority and John Hay Management Corp. we could still generate power but not that full of 150 MW. segregate the 13 barangays from the reservation and remit the city’s shares from the lease rentals under the present administration.2 million households. The city has often appealed to the BCDA-JHMC to honor the conditionalities amid its “blatant disregard” of the same particularly its refusal to allow its locators to secure building and business permits from the city government. series of 1994 which included segregation of all 13 barangays from the reservation. for allegedly not following terms and conditions of 19 conditions imposed by the city over stewardship of Camp John Hay here. Imee Marcos. the wind will be expected to slow down. The body in another resolution requested mayor Mauricio Domogan to immediately act with dispatch on complaints of punong barangays and to reiterate that BCDA-JHMC comply with 19 conditionalities set under Resolution 362. as top officials of BCDA and JHMC were urged by city officials to stop barring implementation of government projects and entry of construction materials in barangays here within John Hay. however. They decried BCDA-JHMC’s “irrational restrictions” on entry of construction materials and implementation of infrastructure projects programmed for the barangays even if these were justified. Councilor Betty Lourdes Tabanda said BCDA and JHMC should not restrict projects especially if these were legitimate. failure to provide its own water source.would be the expected peak of the power crisis. . This.” Tantoco said. The punong barangays complained of allegedly harsh treatment they are receiving from BCDA-JHMC including their security force which maintained intimidating presence despite previous appeals by residents. Tantoco visited the wind farm last week to attend a thanksgiving mass with Ilocos Norte officials led by Gov. The 150MW Burgos Wind Farm composed of 50 giant wind turbines with equivalent height of 25-storey building. The body also moved on motion of Councilor Fred Bagbagen to relay concerns raised by barangay heads to JHMC and to city legal office to study the possibility of filing a case in relation to the conditionalities. ” The arbitration committee came out with its decision on Camp John Hay earlier.This. Domogan on a number of occasions tried to broker a diplomatic settlement for the two parties urging them to sit down and negotiate out-of-court. With the original lease rescinded. the city suffered the biggest blow as it may now be totally deprived of its 25 percent share from the lease rentals which it had demanded for so long and which it could have used to fund priority projects. BCDA had sought the payment of CJHDevCo’s arrears and botched negotiations between the two parties led to the arbitration by the courts. according to Casanova. the lease agreement was restructured in 2000. series of 1994.3 billion. 11.. .” the mayor said. 362. 2003 and in 2008. The city stands to collect 25 percent share of the arrears being collected pursuant to the conditionalities under Resolution No.500.421. evaluate and determine the obligations that each failed to deliver. the BCDA-JHMC met owners of business establishments who entered into contracts with CJH Development Corp.000 for the succeeding years. The mayor also took exception from the BCDA’s claims that the city did not do its part to help in the efforts to collect the unpaid rentals. Casanova said “the rights of the victims (tenants) of CJHDevCo cannot be taken cognizance of unless they lay a claim against DevCo and make it account for the payments they have made. Meanwhile. rescinded the original and derivative lease agreements and ordered the CJHDevCo to cede the leased premises to BCDA while in turn directing the BCDA to return to the CJHDevCo the rental payments it made totaling P1. But according to the mayor. the contract that CJHDevCo entered into with its buyers no longer applies and their subleases are terminated with the principal lease. rescinding the lease agreement between BCDA and CJHDevCo. The mayor however said that the city will not give up and will watch out for postdecision developments so it can accordingly to assert its rights based on the 19 conditionalities it set on the Camp John Hay development once the decision becomes final. The original agreement pegged the lease rental at P425 million annually for the first five years starting in 1996 and P150 million annually thereafter and the city’s share from the rental was supposed to be 25 percent or P106 million for the first five years and P35. “Records would bear us out that we were not negligent and we tried our best to reach out to both the BCDA and the CJHDevCo even before they decided on the arbitration. as mayor Mauricio Domogan said not one of two parties can claim victory in the decision rendered by the arbitral court on the BCDA and Camp John Hay Development Corp. quantify in monetary value and compensate each other under a compromise agreement. “Sana kung nakinig sila. We sought them out and tried to convince them to settle the conflict amicably but they refused.096.052 and further cleared CJHDevCo from its liability to pay its arrears amounting to P3. finding “mutual breach” of the agreement by both parties. However. in the former American military facility to thresh out their concerns. based on the terms of the contracts they have entered. BCDA president and chief executive officer Arnel Paciano D. He suggested that the two. the Philippine Dispute Resolution Center Inc.” he bemoaned. In the ruling dated Feb. hindi sana nagresulta sa ganito. (CJHDevCo) case as the city government stands to be the biggest loser with the looming noncollection of its supposed share from the lease of the former military reservation. In 2012. For Bauko affected areas include Maba-ay. He urged both parties to resolve the problem now as not to let the future generation inherit the problem. In a meeting with investors in Manila last week. Ventura said the dispute came about after the municipality of Bauko allegedly encroached on territory of Sabangan specifically at barangay Napua and Namatec with an area of around 519 hectares. 12 wherein municipal mayors from both municipalities were present. The elders were present during the second meeting conducted this year at Libo but could not arrive to a consensus so they agreed to return back the responsibility to elected municipal officials in settlement of the dispute. Lomong-oy SABANGAN. the BCDA requested locators of CJHDevCo to provide it with a record of their lease contracts. The first meeting was held Jan. Nueva Vizcaya fiscal gunned down . to vacate Camp John Hay and return it to the BCDA in “tenantable” condition.4 billion obligation that it reportedly admitted to owing the state run firm in 2008. Dalog urged cooperation of both parties in settlement of the boundary dispute. 13 here at Sitio Libo. Since there was no agreement made on the first meeting conducted. It is a standoff to date. This. Mountain Province – Provincial and local officials are setting a meeting to resolve the boundary dispute of this town and adjacent Bauko. It was also learned that Bauko cadastral survey returns were earlier submitted and subsequently approved after finding that everything was in order while Sabangan cadastral survey returns were submitted later though it was surveyed earlier. payments and other relevant documents so that it can start an inventory and determine how to proceed. The congressman said he was hoping the boundary dispute would be resolved this March. both parties suggested and agreed to invite elders who knowledgeable on history of disputed area. Maximo Dalog was invited as mediator/facilitator who explained procedure. engineer Benjamin Ventura identified the affected areas. CJHDevCo sold 50year leases to the victims despite having only a 25-year lease on the property. Sabangan to settle land dispute By Wabilyn M. Refuerzo Bauko.” Casanova said.42 billion as ordered by the arbitration committee. CJHDevco executives however said they will leave if the BCDA would pay them P1. The BCDA said CJHDevCo should pay the government firm P2. The members of the arbitration committee were unanimous in ordering Sobrepena’s CJH Development Corp.“There was a deliberate concealment on the part of CJHDevCo of the contracts it had entered into and the payments it had received. – With a report from Aileen P. To understand present s1ituation regarding the problem. Rep. Another disputed area was from barangay Data to Pingad which Bauko allegedly encroached upon covering 977 hectares. We are still in the process of determining the enormity of the undisclosed sales. Monamon Norte and Leseb while Sabangan had Namatec and Napua. after there was no settlement in second meeting held Feb. was shot in the head. Nieves said. 58. Divina. of Sitio Tamale. Samuel Dacayo was pronounced dead on arrival in a hospital.45-caliber pistol and black Euro motorcycle they used in their getaway. Cagayan. . neutralized Oliver B. a member of the Sto. Senior Supt. Cabradilla.m. killing one member of a group operating in Bulacan and two others from a separate gang that had just assassinated their target in Nueva Ecija last week. 32. Garcia. Hidalgo and Jonald V. and Jeffrey M. Ferdinand O. married. Kevin Balayugan. Lintac. Supt. a cousin of Solano Mayor Philip Dacayo. PNP-Army teams kill 3 hired guns in two shootouts in CL BONGABON. Prior to the shootout. said his men. He said the suspect claimed that the killing was due to a personal grudge and alleged that he was with a certain Sonny Galisim when he shot Fernandez. After the shootout. married. Nueva Ecija Police Provincial Office (PPO). Charlie A. in a shootout in Bongabon town. Former cop nabbed for colleague’s slay By Jun Elias CAMP DIEGO SILANG. To date no witness outside of the family has surfaced to shed light on the killing which rocked this bustling town. Zambales for allegedly killing Police Officer 3 Randy Fernandez in Pangasinan in September 2002. Esguerra said Diaz admitted to killing Fernandez. La Union – A dismissed police officer was arrested last week by agents of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group for the murder of his colleague 12 years ago. SJDM chief of police. said Uclaray and his two cohorts — one. CIDG regional chief. 55. San Jose del Monte City (SJDM) last Wednesday night. identified only as alias “Bunso” — were subjects of a hot pursuit operation after they allegedly took the service firearms of Privates First Class Junky G. was arrested in his hideout in San Antonio. Moga. married. Solano police chief. Barangay Digmala in the same town. 8 most wanted man in Bongabon. Barangay Talipapa. Sr. Meanwhile. Cabanatuan City. Crizaldo Nieves. Nicolas. Laur Nueva Ecija. Francisco Esguerra. allegedly gunned down Raymond A. according to initial reports received by Chief Insp. Garcia and Moga. said suspected holdupper and hired killer Ramillo Princena Uclaray. Police investigating the killing said they are looking at angles whether the killing was work-related among others. Nueva Ecija— Police clashed against gun-for-hire and robbery syndicates in Central Luzon. No bail was recommended for Diaz’s temporary liberty. Supt. Nueva Vizcaya – A government prosecutor was gunned down by suspected guns-forhire at his house in Barangay Roxas here 11:30 p. said Senior Supt. 35. Tuesday. Police said the victim. Bulacan PPO director. of Buguey. police collected the suspects’ Colt MK-IV . Leoncio Diaz. 37. of Barangay San Isidro. Tomas police station in Pangasinan. listed as the No.By Raymund Catindig SOLANO. backed up by army soldiers. was killed in an exchange of gunfire with police and army soldiers in Barangay San Isidro. This after an Italian firm responded to a call from local officials to manufacture a flying boat that can be easily utilized also in search and rescue operations during calamities. . Flying speedboats available in Phl By Mar T. Bakun town police discovered seven plantation sites in Sitio Nagawa. aside from being affordable.45-cal. PT 1911 Taurus pistol stolen from PFC Hidalgo and one Uzi machine gun.The two soldiers. While Uclaray was killed.4 million worth of marijuana plants in Benguet last week.000. Ilocos Sur — Believe it or not but flying speedboats are now available in the Philippines after former National Security Council Adviser and Ilocos Sur Gov. his two cohorts escaped leaving behind the . He appealed to the public to report to authorities illegal activities especially existence of marijuana plantation in their areas. who engaged them in a gun battle. Supnad VIGAN CITY. another 1.000. “This flying boat will be used by the people of Ilocos Sur particularly in search and rescue operations during typhoons.7 million marijuana plants were again burned Feb. on board a Mitsubishi van. They can also use it in campaign against illegal fishing. La Trinidad. Barangay Kayapa in the town planted with 5. from the Peace and Development Team (PDT) Alpha Company. “Our recent successful marijuana eradication operation is an evidence for our promise to intensify the destruction of marijuana plants and free the region from other forms of illegal drugs.” said Singson whose two sons-Ryan and Ronald are incumbent governor and congressman of Ilocos Sur. Kibungan. Barangay Badeo. The lawmen caught up with the suspects. stopped in front of them on Igay Road and held them at gunpoint. Velez) P1. Isagani Nerez. As the suspects sped off with their firearms.000 marijuana seedlings. since. Hidalgo and Lintac radioed their company and a hot pursuit with police commenced.980 fully grown marijuana plants and 3.316. The other was in Sitio Saguilip. These flying speedboats can be easily utilized by the national and local governments against crime like smuggling and illegal fishing. regional police director said. it can be easily operated.900 seedlings valued at P396. (Sheen Crisologo and Freddie C. Benguet — After the recent destruction of P9. Said marijuana plants has a total Dangerous Drug Board Value of P1.7-M marijuana burned in Benguet CAMP DANGWA. All uprooted marijuana plants were burned on site and only representation was taken for evidentiary purposes. were taken by surprise when the suspects. 17 in separate operations. townwherein police discovered five plantation sites planted with 600 fully grown marijuana plants and 6. Luis “Chavit” Singson purchased one for the use of people in Ilocos Sur which has vast coastal areas being located along China sea. It can also be used in the campaign against illegal fishing along the coastal areas and illegal logging in the mountains. Chief Supt. and others. 22 along Manila Bay last week. adventure.Tested in a dry-run flight Feb. Felix ordered Ilocos Sur police to be on alert status and investigate burning of equipment by rebels here at Sitio Sinagaban. a former colonel in the Italian air force. Ilocos Sur — Ilocos police director Chief Supt. patrol. Scandinavia. of said date by armed men who claimed they were members of New People’s Army. Based on statement of security guard Jose Rapada and caretaker William Ong. said the Italian inventor in an impromptu interview with this writer aboard the flying boat. on Feb. producing 145 units which are now flying in 27 countries. emergency rescue and yacht tender. inventors and owners of the Ramphos flying boat. the flying boat called Ramphos amphibious. On April 11. The Ramphos owners are now planning to put up their office and manufacturing plant in the country to help the national and local governments in rescue and campaign efforts and against lawless elements since these are affordable and can be easily operated. Based on reports equipment of South Ocean Mining Corp. Mexico. owned by Peter Hay.” It is safe to operate aside from being cheap. Fueled by diesel or petrol. thousands of flights have been made by their products since its existence “but so far no accidents occurred. scuba dive tours. said Enos Gaiga and Giorgio Gentilini. Quirino wherein the drilling machine of the Freeport Mc-Moran Phelps Dodge Mining Company was allegedly burned by the NPA Alfredo Cesar Command. companions of the alleged NPA member poured gasoline on the equipment and set these on fire that lasted for more than an hour. 19. Felix said he directed his men to ensure security at mining area and in Quirino town to avoid recurrence of same incident. mud and wild sand lagoon and can fly 30 meters above sea level. were burned at around 1:25 a. Following this. provided they undergo at least a week of training . said Gaiga and Gentilini. Barangay Patungcaleo. China. Russia. Ilocos Sur PNP on alert after NPAs torch mining equipment By Myds Supnad QUIRINO. you can have its engine switched off a few kilometers away from the target so it is noiseless. including America. “If you use the boat in running after lawless elements. It can fly a distance of 300 miles or less than a little 500 kilometers and can take off from land and sea. 2014. Australia. He said they are ready to discuss further its mechanics with the military and other officials. on water and operate in 10 centimeter deep water. According to Gentilini. same incident happened in Patiacan. Malaysia. It can run a speed of 28 kts. Ramphos started manufacturing the sea vehicle in 1998. can carry three persons in flight and five in water. Roman A. a Chinese National. The flying boat can operate by non-expert pilots. an unidentified armed male person entered the premises and ordered them to turn off their cell phones introducing himself as member of the NPA. He said that it is also perfect for sightseeing.” said Gentilini. .m. Afterwards. 05 worth of lumber in Benguet and Mountain Province last week.Felix said this time. Paayas is allegedly one of drug personalities in Buguias who are known to have big time suppliers. The suspect was identified as Agosto Singwa Paayas.000 and cell phone. 23. Personnel of the Regional Public Safety Company of Regional Public Safety Battalion found 88 pieces of illegally sawn pine lumbers valued at P13. 332. Benguet. Agosto Paayas. Bobok Rizal Feb. Sebang. Tabbacan. Buguias. 23 and 24 respectively. 54. 54. Ronnie Bangsail Valdez. Benguet – Police arrested an alleged leader of illegal drug pushers here at an eatery in Barangay Abatan night of Feb. A police report said Paayas allegedly used his house as a drug den and transaction venue. La Trinidad. buy-bust money amounting to P3. Benguet and Sitio Lakkaan.000.822 here in Barangay Kawal. ‘Leader’ of illegal drug pushers nabbed in Buguias BUGUIAS.000 to an undercover agent. Benguet – Police confiscated P30. In another operation.832. Abatan. 510. In Bokod. helper of Baguio Water District who saw the minors turned them over to police. Paayas is now in detained at the municipal jail which charges for illegal are being prepared against him. Benguet– An alleged drug syndicate leader was arrested in a sting at an eatery in Buguias town here Monday night. Batan. the operatives seized from his possession 46 small heatsealed transparent plastic sachets containing shabu worth P23. During the buy-bust operation. Cops confiscate lumber in Benguet.23. Lumber were found abandoned in Sitio Annadong. said Chief Superintendent Isagani Nerez. was collared after he reportedly sold 46 sachets of shabu with an estimated value of P23. . of Lower Nakiangan.05 was confiscated by police. Drug gang leader falls LA TRINIDAD. 23. personnel of Benguet PPSC recovered 19 pieces of illegally sawn pine lumber worth P3. Paayas was reportedly the town’s most wanted drug trafficker and uses his home as a drug den. Benguet on Feb. 3 minors caught smoking marijuana BAGUIO CITY – Three minors were caught smoking marijuana in the orchidarium at Burnham Park here midnight of Feb. Mt Province towns CAMP DANGWA. intensified security operations is being implemented in suspected red areas with the support of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and other law enforcement agencies to ensure safety of communities folks. pine lumber worth P17. Kabayan. Libakung. appointment of hiring of new employees. 14 – filing of certificates of candidacy. It was reportedly behind the residence of Col.Pio Procor. Comelec bare SK election rules CAMP DANGWA. Alex Gonzaga Napoles. PNP. Isagani Nerez. a retired Philippine Army who paused while jogging at Loakan runway. laborer. 48. 19. 23. Regional police director Chief Supt. Ernesto Iyang Cabillan. absolute prohibition without exemption on promotions or giving of salary increases. Loakan Proper. . 53. 23. Regional police director Chief Supt. He said the public could contact police regarding criminal activities through social media (Twitter-@PNPCordillera or Facebook Page. Benguet — To ensure peaceful and orderly Special Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections on April 25. The explosives were turned over to the police after these were recovered by concerned citizens. Baguio. Arrested in the raid were Manuel Bolante Bersola. April 25 – counting and canvassing of votes and proclamation of winning candidates and April 26 will be filing of statements of contributions and expenditures. fished out from well BAGUIO CITY – Explosives were found here at Purok 1 Irisan night of Feb. April 11. 21. Said projectile was found inside a dried and abandoned deep well 10 feet deep by Jerry Marron. or throughthe following numbers: Complaint Referral . 241 Purok Magsaysay. Regional Tactical Operation Center (074) 422-5515. 2015 resetting it to April 25. 13. acted upon a textmessage from a concerned citizen. La Trinidad. the Philippine National Police and Commission on Elections bared calendar of activities regarding said election. Baguio cops arrested nine alleged gamblers engaged in cockfighting at an open space in Barangay Kitma. Abra and resident of Kitma Extension. Cartojano at No.In Mt Province. The Comelec earlier postponed SK elections set Feb. Bakakeng Central morning of Feb. Isagani Nerez said gun ban would be imposed once election period starts to ensure safety and public order. 09175302679/ 09285591669. Loakan Proper. remuneration or privileges and creation and filing up of new positions. 2015 by a laborer identified as Delio Ingosan and his co-workers who were digging a road here to widen it. police recovered 130 pieces of pine lumber valued at P13. ve of Bangued. expressed his gratitude to the public for information provided to the responding personnel.09174297628. Comelec Resolution 9939 as amended stipulated the PNP should prohibited acts during the election period: transfer of detail of officers and employees in the civil service including PNP personnel without clearance from the Comelec. 22. an 81mm mortar was retrieved by police at boundary of Loakan Airport and titled lot in Magsaysay Drive. In the afternoon of the same day. 9 illegal gamblers arrested BAGUIO CITY — Nine gamblers were arrested here last week for illegal gambling. 21. Calendar of events are as follows: March 26 to May 10 – election period. of Kitma.500 abandoned along Halsema road in Mabaay Bauko evening of Feb. Explosives dug along Baguio road. April 25 – election day. the OMB found Uera administratively liable for grave misconduct and grave abuse of authority for having unilaterally suspended and terminated the 44 municipal employees. They were arrested after they failed to present legal documents. but he has since remained in office. Jerry Claro Cosme. Jose Llagas Borja. and resident of Kitma and Pedro Beltran Padilla. Villaflor has repeatedly written to Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales. The aggrieved employees are now questioning why – despite the OMB having transmitted its ruling to the office of Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Mar Roxas – Uera continues to hold office and dispense the functions of mayor. 51. During the operation operatives confiscated a fighting cock with spur attached to the leg and cash bet of P2. Alfredo Arellano Igoy. Gov. Ecija town mayor ousted by OMB remains in office PANTABANGAN. 41. Pangasinan. 54.of Layte. Pangasinan. Benguet. Benguet Feb. Victor Wanchacan said police provide 24/7 patrol and visibility at venues of events in the city. Carlo Abuga Cefreno. of Pozurobio. Kalinga . Singson will be welcomed by Rep. Sablan. of Bicol. resident of Tadiangan. of Sto.000. — Sheen Crisologo Sec Singson to grace Begnas di Bauko fest BAUKO. Maximo Dalog. requesting Uera’s removal from his post but has not yet received any reply or acknowledgment from her office. 57. Benguet – Police arrested two men unloading sawn lumber from a jeep at Lower Poblacion. driver and his helper Alfredo Petisme Chan. 21. both residents here of Upper Palali. Samar. Baguio City and a minor. In its joint resolution issued in June 2013. 49. Nino Bakakeng Central. Suspects were identified as Bobby Pacalso Binay-an. 23. of Asingan. Albay. Tuba. 36. “I am very concerned about this because I received reports that Mayor Uera has been telling people that he cannot be removed from office because he has connections (within the Ombudsman). of Santa Rita. Provincial police director Senior Supt. Mountain province — This scenic town is set to celebrate its Begnas Festival on March 12-14 at Bauko Catholic High School at Poblacion to be highlighted by inauguration of Mabaay-Abatan tourism road with Highways Secretary Rogelio Singson cutting the ribbon. one of the complainants said.” Alison Villaflor. Leyte. Leonard Mayaen and Bauko Mayor Abraham B. .-The province was peaceful due to police security efforts to ensure peaceful celebration of the province’s 20th Founding Anniversary and Ullalim Festival last week. Two men unloading illegal lumber from jeep nabbed SABLAN. carpenter. Nueva Ecija — Four months have passed since the Office of the Ombudsman ordered the dismissal of Mayor Lucio Uera of this town for having illegally suspended and dismissed 44 permanent municipal employees. Akilit. Upped PNP security measures makes Kalinga peaceful during Ullalim fest TABUK CITY. Corpuz said the van driver.m. Benguet at Intensity 4. gem of the native land).With the theme “Menpaek ya mamang-et ay Ibauko. nearby provinces BAGUIO CITY — Classes started promptly and without fuzz Tuesday morning shortly after some panic when a magnitude 4.m. There was no significant disruption of classes in this city and the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines said that power transmission service was normal. gameng di nsiposdan da alapo” (Diligent and vigilant people of Bauko. it was “slightly felt” at Intensity 2 in Dagupan City in Pangasinan and Intensity 1 or “scarcely perceptible” in Palayan City. Inauguration and launching of the Agro-industrial fair is set at municipal ground March 2-14. Drug couple busted . It was felt strongest in this city and La Trinidad.1 quake jolts Baguio. it aims to strengthen participation and bonding of its 22 barangays. A trek to Bauko Spanish Trail to the camping site of Balintaugan culminating at the “Lepas di ipadogan” in Bagnen Oriente (festival) took place Feb. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology said the center of the quake was about 13 kilometers southeast of this city. Begnas di iBauko is one of cultural festivities celebrated annually by the municipality com foundation day.” Meanwhile. Jay-ar Baltazar and Adriano Jove were declared dead on arrival at the Nuestra Señora de Piat District Hospital while Dante Fernandez and Mark Marzan were said to be in critical condition at the Cagayan Valley Medical Center. Benguet. Nueva Ecija. A musical-theater presentation of Bauko government employees in a stage play entitled “Tawid di litagwan” under the direction of Ventura Betot will also be featured. who has yet to be identified. which is relatively weak. Activities were conducted before the begnas . Phivolcs said such intensity is comparable with the “vibration of a passing heavy truck that is felt by people indoors and some people outdoors and may awaken light sleepers. Reports said the victims.— Arsenia Addon 2 die as van hits motorcycle TUGUEGARAO CITY – Two persons died while two others were injured when their motorcycle was hit by a van in Tuao town Feb.” Intensity 3 was felt in Itogon.— Raymund Catindig 4. but caused no casualties or damage to property. It will feature the cultural presentation of barangays. escaped after the accident. A job fair will also be conducted March 9-10 at same venue. “but some people may experience dizziness and nausea. according to case investigator PO3 Jonathan Corpuz. who were on a motorcycle driven by Jove. which is considered moderately strong. were traveling along the highway in Barangay Villa Laida when they were sideswiped by the van at around 11 p.1 earthquake rocked this city at 7:14 a. 20-21. The stage play is about responsible utilization and nurturing of natural resources. 20. Mountain Province State Polytechnic College – 50. the provincial government unit. according to DOLE Provincial Field Office Head Samuel Lasdacan. 60 percent will be paid by the employer in cash while the remaining 40 percent of the salary will be paid by DOLE in the form of education voucher. Taguig City. — Erwin G. MPSPC and Xijen College of Mountain Province will employ students for 40 days. facing a string of criminal charges. a “paltik” or homemade pistol. guns. They are now detained at the Bacnotan Municipal Jail. 33.38-caliber gun. and Barlig – 45. Xijen College of Mountain Province and the Office of the Vice governor will employ 25 students each. and his wife Asnaimah Macalanggan-Masorong. local deputy police chief. a hand grenade. The SPES is a regular annual job creation program of the national government intended for the poor but deserving students to augment their school fees by providing them work during summer vacation. provincial government and office of the vice governor will hire students for 20 days. Seized from them were 10 sachets of suspected “shabu. college. This program is open to all qualified high school. students are paid a salary computed based on the given wage rate of each of the employers. 22 for possession of drugs. 32. Barlig.BACNOTAN. nine towns and two tertiary schools in the province will be employing 878 students this summer vacation. and a marked P1. Besao and Bontoc.m. Senior Insp. The towns of Bauko. the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency said. identified the suspects as Jabar Masorong. Under this program. Reginaldo Dalipias. Bauko -115. assorted bullets. Lasdacan said all the Public Employment Service Officers in municipalities were instructed to start screening student applicants and process the employment documents of qualified applicants in time for their employment in April. income tax return of parents or certification from the barangay stating that the income of the family does not exceed the poverty thresh hold. both of Barameda Street. Tadian. Besao. ammunition and explosives. Sabangan – 49. Sagada. Tadian – 78. grades for first semester for college students and latest card of previous year for high school students.000 bill used in the buy-bust operation around 7:30 p.” a . Students to be employed by Natonin and Paracelis will work for 25 days and 22 days in Sabangan. 24 each and Sagada. technology or vocational students and drop-outs who intend to continue their studies. — Juliet Saley Ecija town mayor ousted by OMB remains in office . Beleo Mt Province to employ 878 studes under SPES BONTOC. the municipality of Natonin pledged to hire 212 students. Mountain Province — In support to the Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES) of the Department of Labor and Employment. La Union — A couple from Taguig City was busted in Barangay Guinabang.145. here night of Feb. provincial government . Paracelis – 66. Bontoc. Of the total. Student applicants are required to submit complete documents such as original/certified true photocopy of birth or baptismal certificate. 20. Villaflor has repeatedly written to Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales. “I am very concerned about this because I received reports that Mayor Uera has been telling people that he cannot be removed from office because he has connections (within the Ombudsman). It will feature the cultural presentation of barangays. Gov. With the theme “Menpaek ya mamang-et ay Ibauko. according to case investigator PO3 Jonathan Corpuz. Akilit. Reports said the victims. 20-21. A trek to Bauko Spanish Trail to the camping site of Balintaugan culminating at the “Lepas di ipadogan” in Bagnen Oriente (festival) took place Feb. 20.m. Inauguration and launching of the Agro-industrial fair is set at municipal ground March 2-14. who were on a motorcycle driven by Jove. Leonard Mayaen and Bauko Mayor Abraham B. A musical-theater presentation of Bauko government employees in a stage play entitled “Tawid di litagwan” under the direction of Ventura Betot will also be featured. it aims to strengthen participation and bonding of its 22 barangays. Begnas di iBauko is one of cultural festivities celebrated annually by the municipality com foundation day. were traveling along the highway in Barangay Villa Laida when they were sideswiped by the van at around 11 p. Nueva Ecija — Four months have passed since the Office of the Ombudsman ordered the dismissal of Mayor Lucio Uera of this town for having illegally suspended and dismissed 44 permanent municipal employees.— Arsenia Addon 2 die as van hits motorcycle TUGUEGARAO CITY – Two persons died while two others were injured when their motorcycle was hit by a van in Tuao town Feb. In its joint resolution issued in June 2013. gem of the native land). but he has since remained in office. — Sheen Crisologo Sec Singson to grace Begnas di Bauko fest BAUKO. The stage play is about responsible utilization and nurturing of natural resources. Activities were conducted before the begnas . A job fair will also be conducted March 9-10 at same venue. gameng di nsiposdan da alapo” (Diligent and vigilant people of Bauko.” Alison Villaflor. The aggrieved employees are now questioning why – despite the OMB having transmitted its ruling to the office of Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Mar Roxas – Uera continues to hold office and dispense the functions of mayor. Jay-ar Baltazar and Adriano Jove were declared dead on arrival at the Nuestra Señora de Piat District Hospital while Dante Fernandez and Mark Marzan were said to be in critical condition at the Cagayan Valley Medical Center. the OMB found Uera administratively liable for grave misconduct and grave abuse of authority for having unilaterally suspended and terminated the 44 municipal employees. Maximo Dalog. one of the complainants said. Mountain province — This scenic town is set to celebrate its Begnas Festival on March 12-14 at Bauko Catholic High School at Poblacion to be highlighted by inauguration of Mabaay-Abatan tourism road with Highways Secretary Rogelio Singson cutting the ribbon. . requesting Uera’s removal from his post but has not yet received any reply or acknowledgment from her office.PANTABANGAN. Singson will be welcomed by Rep. nine towns and two tertiary schools in the province will be employing 878 students this summer vacation. provincial government . It was felt strongest in this city and La Trinidad. Tadian – 78. guns. — Erwin G. escaped after the accident. but caused no casualties or damage to property. La Union — A couple from Taguig City was busted in Barangay Guinabang. Seized from them were 10 sachets of suspected “shabu. They are now detained at the Bacnotan Municipal Jail. Benguet at Intensity 4.145. Mountain Province — In support to the Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES) of the Department of Labor and Employment. Paracelis – 66.000 bill used in the buy-bust operation around 7:30 p. Beleo Mt Province to employ 878 studes under SPES BONTOC.Corpuz said the van driver.” a . Sabangan – 49. 20. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology said the center of the quake was about 13 kilometers southeast of this city. “but some people may experience dizziness and nausea. it was “slightly felt” at Intensity 2 in Dagupan City in Pangasinan and Intensity 1 or “scarcely perceptible” in Palayan City.m. Taguig City.” Meanwhile. a hand grenade.— Raymund Catindig 4. the municipality of Natonin pledged to hire 212 students. the provincial government unit. 22 for possession of drugs. There was no significant disruption of classes in this city and the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines said that power transmission service was normal. nearby provinces BAGUIO CITY — Classes started promptly and without fuzz Tuesday morning shortly after some panic when a magnitude 4. local deputy police chief. assorted bullets. ammunition and explosives. Benguet. Bauko -115.1 earthquake rocked this city at 7:14 a. and a marked P1.38-caliber gun. Reginaldo Dalipias. 24 each and Sagada. and Barlig – 45. which is considered moderately strong.1 quake jolts Baguio. the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency said. who has yet to be identified. facing a string of criminal charges. Of the total. and his wife Asnaimah Macalanggan-Masorong. . Phivolcs said such intensity is comparable with the “vibration of a passing heavy truck that is felt by people indoors and some people outdoors and may awaken light sleepers. here night of Feb. Besao and Bontoc. Senior Insp. Nueva Ecija. which is relatively weak. 32. 33. identified the suspects as Jabar Masorong. both of Barameda Street.” Intensity 3 was felt in Itogon.m. Drug couple busted BACNOTAN. a “paltik” or homemade pistol. Mountain Province State Polytechnic College – 50. Xijen College of Mountain Province and the Office of the Vice governor will employ 25 students each. The towns of Bauko. nation and wherever it could reverberate”. Sagada. college. who in the midst of diversified beliefs and dreams. 60 percent will be paid by the employer in cash while the remaining 40 percent of the salary will be paid by DOLE in the form of education voucher. “I urge you to bring the call beyond the borders of the province – to the rest of the Cordillera. ‘our hearts can beat as one and act together to push our province and people forward to prosperity and development. — Larry Lopez New quake devise installed in Dagupan DAGUPAN CITY. unity in Ullalim fest address TABUK CITY. Bontoc. Lasdacan said all the Public Employment Service Officers in municipalities were instructed to start screening student applicants and process the employment documents of qualified applicants in time for their employment in April. Jocel C. municipalities and schools. provincial government and office of the vice governor will hire students for 20 days. — Juliet Saley Kalinga gov calls for peace. income tax return of parents or certification from the barangay stating that the income of the family does not exceed the poverty thresh hold. Under this program. Students to be employed by Natonin and Paracelis will work for 25 days and 22 days in Sabangan. according to DOLE Provincial Field Office Head Samuel Lasdacan. Student applicants are required to submit complete documents such as original/certified true photocopy of birth or baptismal certificate. grades for first semester for college students and latest card of previous year for high school students. Tadian. Rallying for peace and unity among tribes. could ultimately stand as one for Kalinga. Kalinga – Gov. Baac urged people to take the “call of a thousand gongs a call for peace and unity” as the province celebrated its founding anniversary last week with the theme. “Kalinga at 20: A Legacy of Peace and Unity” Baac made the call Monday before a multitude who watched the spectacular dance of “awong chi ganza” or call of a thousand gongs played by 3.048. technology or vocational students and drop-outs who intend to continue their studies. Besao.048 players coming from the various barangays. organizers increased the number of players to 3. Baac said. Pangasinan — A new earthquake intensity meter has already been installed here for disaster preparedness and response. The rhythm and tune produced from the thousand gongs could resound and despite varied tribal groupings. Baac likened the harmony of the three thousand gongs to people of the province. This program is open to all qualified high school. Baac said. students are paid a salary computed based on the given wage rate of each of the employers. . The SPES is a regular annual job creation program of the national government intended for the poor but deserving students to augment their school fees by providing them work during summer vacation. It was launched last year and played by a thousand gong players from the different municipalities but this time. Barlig. This year’s “awong chi ganza” was documented for possible entry in the Guinness World of Book Records. MPSPC and Xijen College of Mountain Province will employ students for 40 days. 27). Lagangilang . Cabaruyan. The earthquake device is connected to a computer with an internet access that gathers information and transmits real-time data to Phivolcs database for an accurate description of an earthquake. Coronation night for Mr. Pidigan. On March 16. the “Strawberry Lane” will open at the Municipal Park where various strawberry by-products and other La Trinidad produce will also be offered for sale. barangay night (Mar. and Ms. Poblacion. the main program. La Trinidad will be on March 28 at the Benguet State University grounds. — Arlene Abat 200 Abra women join livelihood training BANGUED. Other scheduled-activities include: clean-up drive (Mar. Tabanda is inviting the public to come and celebrate with them and enjoy the various cultures and products of La Trinidad. renewal of marriage vows (Mar. .The device. and various family. 20). Another training session is set at Cayapa. Benguet — As the Baguio Flower Festival heated up. the nearby capital town of Benguet also launched last week its Strawberry Festival. 25). A mini-float and drum and lyre parade and competition are scheduled on March 20. Jobs Fair (Mar. Abra. Daguioman. parade. 6). sports and adventure events. among others. youth symposium. Since January. — Liezle Basa Iñigo La Trinidad launches Strawberry Festival LA TRINIDAD. The annual Strawberry Fun Run and Walk with the most awaited ‘Duting tan Dukto’. The town’s foundation day on March 18 will be highlighted with street dancing. Strawberry Festival 2015 carries the theme “Valley of Colors: A Colourful Gathering and Merry-Making”. Noemi Belandres-Bachiller of the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office was trainer in food processing and preservation. The formal opening is on March 6 that will start with an ecumenical service. and multi-cultural celebrations and rituals. La Trinidad officials headed by Mayor Edna Tabanda said the month-long event will kick-off on March 2 with the opening of Agro-Industrial Trade Fair and barangay booths at the public market grounds. 19). Set to open in the first week of March just as Baguio’s Panagbenga is winding down. four training sessions were conducted at Velasco. Also featured will be strawberry cake festival and strawberry baking and pastries competition. La Trinidad Got Talent (Mar. 30 -31).– More than 200 women in the province are being trained to engage in livelihood projects to augment their family incomes. Tayum and Sulbec. Participants in the livelihood development trainings were members of the Kalipunan ng Liping Pilipina. Acoustic Band Competition (Mar. which was provided by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) and Japan government. is capable of perceiving movements or shaking during or after an earthquake. Tayum. and the search for the sweetest and biggest strawberry fruit are set on March 2. siyang unang makikinabang” pertaining to the benefits the farmers would be getting in the said trading center. Quintos. The governor assured the women of his continuing support for as long as these women will show their sincerity and diligence in implementing the skills they have acquired and really engage in business and not misuse the money that is loaned out to them. The program aims to attain sufficiency in food staples and sustain the growth of the lucrative local vegetable industry in the Cordillera which is to benefit the farmers. BAPTC is patterned after the Sentrong Pamilihan in Sariaya in Quezon Province where. and assisting in delivery of nutrition services.The KALIPI members cited Gov. Alcala. Alcala said he is now pushing trading centers that would allow development agricultural marketing in the country. mobilizing communitites for improvement of their nutrition. Cabang for sustaining the program for the women by integrating and accommodating their project proposals for inclusion in the funding in their annual investment plan. according to Alcala. Jasmine Ann Jacer and Christine Faye Kim . Municipal officials led by Mayor Glenn Prudenciano and Vice-mayor Joseph Angowan approved last quarter of 2014 the ordinance granting incentives to retiring BNSs upon reaching the optional or mandatory age of retirement. however said farmers are not forced or mandated to join the BAPTC saying “Kung sinong unang nagtiwala. He said BAPTC would help the farmers be competitive in terms of production and quality of vegetables. — Department of Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala urged Cordillera farmers to sell their crops under a business scheme of Benguet Agri-Pinoy Trading Center here. The BAPTC. Eustaquio P.000. They also thanked the PSWDO headed by Decimia D. — Pryce E. The ordinance states the BNS at age 60 to 65 could apply for early retirement with an incentive of P20. lower cost of production and wider market options under DA’s Agri-Pinoy Trading Center program. Benguet. and at the compulsory retirement age of 65. expected to be operational this first quarter of the year.000. This is in recognition to services of BNSs leading to reduction of malnutrition cases in the municipality and in gaining Green Banner Award on nutrition in the region. Ifugao — Retiring barangay nutrition scholars in this municipality now receive incentives from the local government. incentive is P25. – Maria Teresa Benas Ifugao town gives incentives to retiring nutrition scholars ALFONSO LISTA. Bersamin for giving attention to needs of Abra women by funding their training programs and giving soft loans that are interest-free for capital to start small businesses. he hopes the Cordilleran farmers will get to experience what farmers of Sariaya experienced. aims to help farmers of Cordillera access new technologies. linking community with service providers. Barangay nutrition scholars are trained community workers whose basic tasks include caring for the malnourished.— Marcelo Lihgawon DA Sec urges farmers to join Benguet Agri-Pinoy trade scheme LA TRINIDAD. speed limits and observe utmost care when driving a motor vehicle. DOLE Region 2 director. Rodriguez Jr. as such. 7 series of 1984 or the Comprehensive Transportation and Traffic Ordinance of the City of Baguio.ro2. local private employers and overseas recruitment agencies in order to help the fresh college graduates find suitable employment. Region 2 expects 16. Mayor Mauricio Domogan said. We will also be using social media for information dissemination.” . Lawyer Sixto T.” Domogan said.ph the schedules of Job Fairs. The ordinance requires motorists to slow down when approaching a pedestrian lane and fully stop for five seconds in all pedestrian crossings within the city. Volunteers were also tapped to help in directing traffic especially during weekends and big city events.000 new grads TUGUEGARAO CITY. As per Ordinance No.” — Liezle Basa Inigo Motorists reminded of ‘king of the road’ law BAGUIO CITY – Folks here are once again clamoring for strict implementation of the city’s King of the Road Ordinance to discipline drivers and prevent vehicular accidents.. Domogan said. Cagayan — This year.dole. The ordinance is yet to see full implementation given the fact that the Traffic Management Unit lacks personnel to man all pedestrian lanes.” Rodriguez said. the Department of Labor and Employment said Tuesday. www. This he said includes areas where frequent accidents are recorded. there order for city police to man crossings especially in crowded areas. He said the job fairs are a venue for the unemployed. The mayor reminded drivers to follow traffic rules and regulations. will be done in partnership with academic institutions.gov. they should also use designated pedestrian lanes when crossing and drivers should yield to pedestrians . Signs of the ordinance are in place and augmentation forces which includes police interns are now anning different choke points in the city. But the job fair is not only for those graduating this month. “This also applies to pedestrians. said the big population of young graduates calls for action and. “That is why we will be organizing Job Fairs to bring employment right here in our doorstep. as in previous ones.000 youth to graduate from college and face the challenge of landing a job. his office sees through the holding of at least 50 job fairs throughout the region. “We have asked the Department of Public Works and Highways to cut savings from the pedestrian overpass being constructed by removing the planned elevator.DOLE 2 eyes hiring of 16. it is unlawful for any person to drive in a built up area at a speed exceeding 30 kilometers per hour.” he said. Rodriguez said. local government units. “We will be posting in our website. laid off and even returning overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) whose contracts abroad have been terminated to find new livelihood opportunities. following the speed limit will not only reduce number of vehicular accidents but will serve to discipline reckless drivers. The job fairs. hopefully the money saved can be appropriated for another overpass or underpass fronting Saint Louis University. Beneficiaries were identified by the City Social Welfare and Development Office. The concept is not just seeing the attraction. 19 was at Bell Church with 5.000 gift packs to indigent constituents.The city government here in partnership with the Baguio Filipino-Chinese Community celebrated Spring Festival with gift sharing at Bakakeng Central headed by punong barangay Dan Palos Daniel. with the aim of boosting tourism promotion in the entire country. Atok and La Trinidad towns. — Jho Arranz Tour operators promote Cordillera tourism sites BAGUIO CITY —The Philippine Tour Operators Association (PHILTOA) has given its commitment that its more than 300 members and affiliate transportation and hotel and restaurant groups will market the region’s unique features and attractions. ending in Baguio. PHILTOA made the vow during the five-day Island Philippines Fun Caravans Cordillera leg where some 50 tour operators and first-time visitors toured heritage sites and tourist destinations in the region. 1945 before he was flown to Camp John Hay in Baguio City for the signing of the surrender documents with the Americans the following day. The Cordillera’s Heritage Warrior Caravan started in Kiangan. — Paul Rillorta Baguio Filipino-Chinese share gifts to poor folks BAGUIO CITY . then to Southern Tagalog. The caravan started in the Cordillera region.A recent incident of over speeding and careless driving caused the death of a student in the city last month. PHILTOA president Cesar Cruz said the group advocates to help the domestic tourism industry through the caravan – an effective way to encourage local and foreign tourists to visit historic sites in the countryside. Central and Northern Luzon. Feb. The group proceeded to Bontoc and Sagada in Mt. The next stop was Banaue and Banga-an Rice Terraces which are listed as UNESCO heritage sites.000 gift packs given to poor folks. Hotelier Peter Ng said they have a 2-classroom project at the Mabini Elementary School ready to be used next school year. doing activities involving the tourists right at the heritage site. They gave 5. He said their group wishes to contribute to the declaration of 2015 Visit Philippines’ “It’s more fun in the Philippines” of the DOT by coming up with the five caravans which they can use to design low cost tour packages for visitors. . He said Cordillera is not difficult to sell as communities are ready. the local governments have programs and there are unique sites that can be found in the region. but being part of the attraction. Visayas and in Mindanao.Province . then to Buguias.” Kiangan is the town where General Tomoyuki Yamashita actually surrendered in September 2. The tourism caravan is the first activity of the PHILTOA. Ifugao where the local government pushes for the new concept of tourist destination and attraction – the “Open Air Museum. some officials of the Department of Education in Pangasinan 1 and school authorities. Arch. It provides all government agencies including departments. Johnny Degay. A check made at the site by media confirmed cracks on the beams. The monitoring team will be headed by the mayor with Dr. No Noon Break and the presence of a public assistance and complaints desk. 2008 following the issuance of implementing rules and regulations by Civil Service Commission. city assessor Nilda Navarro. 20. Pangasinan – Teachers and parents of students of the Bayambang Central School here are appealing to Education Secretary Armin Luistro to conduct an investigation after cracks were reportedly found on the beams of some classrooms. or local government or district units shall set up their respective standards to be known as the Citizen’s Charter within one year after effectivity of said law. The transfer of the school to the area in 2013 was met by protests from parents and teachers and resulted in a legal dispute involving the municipal government that claims ownership of the old school site in Poblacion. Jr. president of Parents Teachers Association. Members of the team include city administrator lawyer Carlos Canilao. and to compel all offices to comply with the requirements of the ARTA. instrumentalities. School principal Corazon Cayabyab said the municipal engineer’s office inspected the school last week. Republic Act 9485. The ARTA monitoring team will determine methods/strategies for 100 percent implementation of the ARTA in the city government here. or government-owned and or controlled corporations. city treasurer Alicia Onoza and acting city building official. bureaus. Estrella Bisquera as the vicechairman and action officer. In a letter dated Feb. such as but not limited to posting of the Citizen’s Charter in their respective departments.. The CSC adapted mechanism called ARTA Watch in which actual “on-the-spot” monitoring is conducted to determine agencies’ complying with the specific ARTA provisions and requirements and the city government here is continuously doing its part to improving the delivery of public service. known as Anti-Red Tape Act (Arta) of 2007 has been in effect since Sept. city general service officer Romeo Concio. offices. city engineer Leo Bernardez.BAYAMBANG. 5. Teacher Evangeline Ferrer said she moved her students to other areas within the school as she worries about their safety.— Eva Visperas Baguio mayor creates group to monitor city hall red tape By Jho Arranz BAGUIO CITY — Mayor Mauricio Domogan recently issued an administrative order to create monitoring team to stop or lessen red tape in city hall. Said act aims to promote efficiency and transparency in government with regard to the manner of transacting with the public by requiring each agency to simplify frontline service . to conduct “on-the-spot” monitoring of the offices. said they are worried about the safety of the students and personnel of the newly constructed school on Magsaysay St. teachers and parents led by Filipinas Alcantara. She said she has yet to receive a copy of the inspection report. ARTA of 2007 was enacted to improve efficiency in the delivery of government service to the public. Francisco Ben.m. Tabuk City. 20. Meanwhile. reportedly yielded 14 plastic sachets said to contain shabu. said city police chief Superintendent Francisco Bulwayan. PO1 Jerry Mabanglo was allegedly caught using shabu with some companions in a house in Barangay Buenlag. The injured passengers were taken to different hospitals for treatment. Fourteen of them were said to be in critical condition.2 million were seized in separate drug operations in Cagayan and Kalinga provinces last week. The reduction of bureaucratic red tape and prevention of graft and corruption is the main purpose of the RA. arrested were Jeffrey Danipog. Michael Bagbago. at least 500 grams of shabu were seized from the house of Bong Addawi. Cagayan. said PDEA regional director Juvenal Azurin. Mabanglo would also face an administrative case. Pangasinan – A police officer was arrested by his colleagues and agents of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency during a raid on an alleged drug den here Feb. . who was in the target list of the PDEA. Of the total volume. 22. said Senior Insp. and Rolino Sagayo. Tamayo. agents of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) arrested Jonathan Tamayo during a sting in Barangay Bagumbayan. 22. 12. Kalinga. The raiding team reportedly seized from Mabanglo a plastic sachet said to contain shabu and drug paraphernalia. Rizaldy Dalope. Aside from Addawi. 33 hurt PINIKPUK.procedures. Kalinga — Three persons died while 33 others were injured when a passenger jeepney rolled over here Feb. He said his men placed the alleged drug den under surveillance before staging the raid. Tuguegarao. Dalope said aside from drug charges. in Barangay Nambaran. Cop caught in Pangasinan town drug session By Eva Visperas CALASIAO. said Supt. Calasiao police chief. Ricky Bayog and Jefferson Sal-ao.2-M shabu By Raymund Catindig TUGUEGARAO CITY — At least 550 grams of shabu with an estimated street value of P1. formulate service standards to observe in every transaction and make known these standards to the clients/citizens. Kalinga raids yield P1. died a day after while being treated at the Cagayan Valley Medical Center in nearby Tuguegarao City. Mabanglo reportedly tried to resist arrest but someone close to him convinced him to surrender. died at the scene while Jovilyn Canias. The passengers came from a religious fellowship meet and were on their way home when the accident occurred at around 4:30 p. all of Tabuk City. alias Bongtay. Kalinga town road accident leaves 3 persons dead. Luis Appag. town police chief. Peter Bam. Caddawan was placed under police custody as charges were readied against him. POSO has also designated common unloading and parking site for trucks near the area to help ease the problem. Agoo police chief. Falgui III reported the truck ban is imposed from 7 a. Aside from the truck ban. were pronounced dead on arrival in a hospital due to stab wounds in various parts of the body. 3 hurt in La Union hacking. to 5 p. The suspects were identified as Demetrio Gayo and his sons Noel. Baguio mayor creates group to monitor city hall red tape By Jho Arranz . Artemio Infante. The monstrous traffic is reportedly caused by delivery trucks unloading commercial stocks at the area. Meanwhile. Ramon Rafael said Ferdinand was arrested Wednesday. George Caddawan. cases of road accidents involving motorcycles had tremendously increased. Investigation showed the victims were having a drinking spree along the road when the suspects arrived and Demetrio challenged them to a fight. La Union — Five persons were killed and three others were wounded when a father and his three sons went on a shooting and hacking rampage here in Barangay Capas Tuesday. To assure public safety. Barangay Junction when its driver. Gil Cabilitazan. 30. and his three-year-old daughter Mary Anne. With the recent completion of road improvement and widening works in Tabuk. Rodel Refuerzo. – With a report from Larry Lopez 5 dead. Tabuk City POSO Officer Dionisio P. Officials said the ban would make roads safe for pedestrians especially young children who pass along the area to school. particularly among minors and motorcycle drivers not wearing helmets. Police are looking at family feud as the motive for the killings. 30. Noel fired at the victims with a Cal. Zosimo Fontanilla. Reynaldo Refuerzo. In Tabuk city. 41. recent road accidents had made the City Public Order and Safety Office to impose a truck ban at the city’s commercial center. every day at the city’s main thoroughfare leading to the city public market. and Gilberto Cecilio. Oscar and Ferdinand. 28. 45 pistol while Oscar and Ferdinand took turns in stabbing them. Falgui reported strict enforcement of the Helmet Law among motorcycle riders in the city. The imposition was also due to mounting problem on traffic and road order. said Chief Insp.m. shooting incident By Jun Elias and Vic Alhambra AGOO.Reports said the jeepney was traveling along a road in Sitio Kapanikian. Gilmar Cabilitazan and Benjie Tabunia remain confined at the Ilocos Training and Regional Medical Center. the POSO set up checkpoints to check those driving without license. La Union police chief Senior Supt.m. A manhunt for the other suspects is underway. lost control of the wheel causing the vehicle to roll over. thanks to the technical support program of the government especially the Department of Science and Technology. . planer and chisels. Estrella Bisquera as the vicechairman and action officer. The ARTA monitoring team will determine methods/strategies for 100 percent implementation of the ARTA in the city government here. offices. 5. bureaus. city general service officer Romeo Concio. ARTA of 2007 was enacted to improve efficiency in the delivery of government service to the public. Campo is a native of Poblacion. Boliney. Jr. formulate service standards to observe in every transaction and make known these standards to the clients/citizens. John was forced to stop schooling and helped in its operation using same old manual carpentry tools. city assessor Nilda Navarro. known as Anti-Red Tape Act (Arta) of 2007 has been in effect since Sept. Said act aims to promote efficiency and transparency in government with regard to the manner of transacting with the public by requiring each agency to simplify frontline service procedures. The monitoring team will be headed by the mayor with Dr. Local entrepreneur turns exporter with government support By Maria Teresa Benas BANGUED. Johnny Degay. It provides all government agencies including departments.BAGUIO CITY — Mayor Mauricio Domogan recently issued an administrative order to create monitoring team to stop or lessen red tape in city hall. Campol and his wife has gone a long way since it started operation in the early 1980s. to conduct “on-the-spot” monitoring of the offices. 2008 following the issuance of implementing rules and regulations by Civil Service Commission. such as but not limited to posting of the Citizen’s Charter in their respective departments. The JB Campol Furniture Shop owned and managed by John B. No Noon Break and the presence of a public assistance and complaints desk. Arch. Members of the team include city administrator lawyer Carlos Canilao.. city treasurer Alicia Onoza and acting city building official. instrumentalities. or local government or district units shall set up their respective standards to be known as the Citizen’s Charter within one year after effectivity of said law. and to compel all offices to comply with the requirements of the ARTA. Ilocos Sur and used manual tools such as hacksaw. Abra – A local entrepreneur here is now an exporter. The reduction of bureaucratic red tape and prevention of graft and corruption is the main purpose of the RA. The CSC adapted mechanism called ARTA Watch in which actual “on-the-spot” monitoring is conducted to determine agencies’ complying with the specific ARTA provisions and requirements and the city government here is continuously doing its part to improving the delivery of public service. or government-owned and or controlled corporations. It was started by Campol’s late father with only two skilled carpenters-carvers from San Vicente. When the elder Campol died in 1987. city engineer Leo Bernardez. . Republic Act 9485. . Moreover.000 pieces of wooden chopping boards of different sizes made of mahogany and acacia for export to Valencia. people in the forested communities are given livelihood by being able to sell their forest trees as sources of raw materials for the wood industry. When the DENR declared a selective log ban and allowed again the transport of wood. USA. John invested additional capitalization of P50. Purchase orders increased and in order to cope with the increasing market demand for their products. John went back to school and graduated in Bachelor of Science in Commerce major in Management in 1991. Explaining the SETUP program. Mall of Asia. In 1992. John re-opened his shop in 2003 with another start-up capital of P200.00 for the procurement of raw materials and mechanized tools. the shop regained its momentum and John registered his shop in 2004. the sustainability of the furniture industry is strengthened because of the continuing program of tree planting because the forest dwellers are linked up with the seedling producers who supply them with their planting materials. JB Campol Furniture Shop has a standing order of 8. This was in the form of an equipment loan under the Small Enterprises Technology Upgrading Program (SETUP) scheme. Consequently.00.000. John stopped operation due to the declaration of a total log ban by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). From its humble beginning. But the shop experience rough sailing and after five years. California. John’s participation in the trade fairs sponsored by the DTI in various malls in the Metropolis such as SM Mega Mall.000. As a result John expanded his business operation. DOST-Abra Director Menandro Buenafe emphasized the benefit of a backward link it generates.Orders increased and so was the income of the shop. With the increased business operation of the furniture industry. Today. the JB Campol Furniture is inspiring and worth emulating for other entrepreneurs. John sought the technical assistance of the DOST in Abra. With the marketing assistance of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI). the program also contributes to the national program of the government to address the global problem of climate change. and increased his workers from 10 to 25. and Alabang Festival Mall gave him exposure in the world market.