Dahil sa biyaya ng Diyos, ang kalagayan ng ating bansa ay nagiging magandaat matatag.
The dawning of the year, it will all come together in the Mighty Grace ofthe Lord.Ang mga ipinatutupad nating reporma ay magbubunga na -- lalong mapapabutiang mga serbisyo sa mamamayan.
Asahan nating darami pa ang mga puhunan attrabaho sa mga darating na araw sa patuloy nating paglaban sa kahirapan.This is our mission: to build prosperity for the greatest number of ourpeople.
Tulungan natin ang mga biktima ng kalamidad with heartfelt compassion andgenerosity, sharing and caring for those in direst need.At sa pagsapit ng Bagong Taon, nawa’y lalo tayong pagpalain ng Poong Maykapal.Merry Christmas at Mabuhay ang Pilipinas. -OPS
Sunday, December 24, 2006
Radio correspondent survives ambush in San Jose City
A correspondent of dzMM radio station was shot and wounded by a man aboard a motorcycle in San Jose City on Friday.
Rufino “Butch” Gamboa was aboard a tricycle on his way home when he was attacked.
Gamboa, who is also a reporter for the provincial radio station dwNE , suffered two bullet wounds in his left arm and chest. He covered an affair where Nueva Ecija Vice Gov. Mariano Cristino Joson was the speaker on Friday.
Gamboa’s son took him to the affair aboard the family’s jeepney. Gamboa, however, decided to send his son home earlier and he took a tricycle after his coverage.
The motorcycle went close to the driver’s side of the tricycle and the gunman fired successively at Gamboa.
Gamboa, though wounded, alighted from the tricycle and ran. -Anselmo S. Roque
Rufino “Butch” Gamboa was aboard a tricycle on his way home when he was attacked.
Gamboa, who is also a reporter for the provincial radio station dwNE , suffered two bullet wounds in his left arm and chest. He covered an affair where Nueva Ecija Vice Gov. Mariano Cristino Joson was the speaker on Friday.
Gamboa’s son took him to the affair aboard the family’s jeepney. Gamboa, however, decided to send his son home earlier and he took a tricycle after his coverage.
The motorcycle went close to the driver’s side of the tricycle and the gunman fired successively at Gamboa.
Gamboa, though wounded, alighted from the tricycle and ran. -Anselmo S. Roque
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
Gapan dad survives ambush; aide killed
GAPAN CITY - The bodyguard of a city councilor was killed while three persons were wounded in an ambush staged by still unidentified suspects in this southern Nueva Ecija city Wednesday morning, police reported.
Supt. Arnel Santiago, the Gapan police chief, said the security aide, Henry Manggit, died on the spot.
Brought to a local hospital were Sangguniang Panlungsod member Elpidio Rueda, Police Officer 1 Baltazar de la Cruz and another policeman, and private security escorts Nori Jacinto and Eric Fernandez.
Police said Rueda and his group were on their way home in a van to Barangay Sta. Cruz after coming from the city’s public market when they were fired on by men in a gray van.
The ambushers then sped away. -Armand Galang
Supt. Arnel Santiago, the Gapan police chief, said the security aide, Henry Manggit, died on the spot.
Brought to a local hospital were Sangguniang Panlungsod member Elpidio Rueda, Police Officer 1 Baltazar de la Cruz and another policeman, and private security escorts Nori Jacinto and Eric Fernandez.
Police said Rueda and his group were on their way home in a van to Barangay Sta. Cruz after coming from the city’s public market when they were fired on by men in a gray van.
The ambushers then sped away. -Armand Galang
Monday, December 18, 2006
P30-million bridge in Cabiao completed
CABIAO, Nueva Ecija- After a long wait, the thousands of farming families in this southwest Nueva Ecija municipality will enjoy easy access to the business community after the P30-million concrete bridge has been completed.
Rep. Rodolfo Antonino and Mayor Gloria Crespo-Congco inaugurated the 150-meter bridge in Barangay San Carlos recently.
Congco said that besides direct economic benefits, residents would also benefit from faster delivery of relief goods during calamities.
In the past, she pointed out, rural villages were accessible during calamities only through boats and aircraft. She said the bridge will bring development, citing rising land prices in the area.
The town market, she said, will have greater commerce with easier transport for goods and other commodities.
Congco said the bridge is a dream come true for every child in the community.
“It has been [a long wait through] three presidents, several congressmen and mayors,” she said. Armand Galang
Rep. Rodolfo Antonino and Mayor Gloria Crespo-Congco inaugurated the 150-meter bridge in Barangay San Carlos recently.
Congco said that besides direct economic benefits, residents would also benefit from faster delivery of relief goods during calamities.
In the past, she pointed out, rural villages were accessible during calamities only through boats and aircraft. She said the bridge will bring development, citing rising land prices in the area.
The town market, she said, will have greater commerce with easier transport for goods and other commodities.
Congco said the bridge is a dream come true for every child in the community.
“It has been [a long wait through] three presidents, several congressmen and mayors,” she said. Armand Galang
Sunday, December 17, 2006
Cabanatuan exec joins United Opposition
PALAYAN CITY - A local officials from this city has joined the United Opposition to run for mayor in next year's elections.
Vice Mayor Raul Mendoza reportedly bolted Bagong Lakas ng Nueva Ecija (Balane) whose chosen bet for the position is incumbent Gov. Tomas N Joson III. His political ally, Mayor Jay Vergara, is fielding a cousin, energy executive Alvin Vergara, who is coming from the outside.
Mendoza who is in his third and final term will be running in tandem with Air Force Col. Rey Garcia, according to reports.
Garcia is the flying mentor of Jude Estrada, a son of former President Joseph "Erap" Estrada, a powerful opposition figure today.
Vice Mayor Raul Mendoza reportedly bolted Bagong Lakas ng Nueva Ecija (Balane) whose chosen bet for the position is incumbent Gov. Tomas N Joson III. His political ally, Mayor Jay Vergara, is fielding a cousin, energy executive Alvin Vergara, who is coming from the outside.
Mendoza who is in his third and final term will be running in tandem with Air Force Col. Rey Garcia, according to reports.
Garcia is the flying mentor of Jude Estrada, a son of former President Joseph "Erap" Estrada, a powerful opposition figure today.
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Caregiving center provides breastfeeding service
CABANATUAN CITY - Mothers in Nueva Ecija who are forced to leave their children for work have found relief with the formation of a care-giving program that provides day-care services to breastfeeding.
Maria Victoria Carlos, former regional training officer of the Department of Social Welfare and Development and acting chief of the Provincial Early Childhood Care and Development Office, said the nursing mothers who provide breastfeeding services were “properly screened and trained” for the job.
The PECCDO has created a center at the back of the old Capitol along Burgos Street, Cabanatuan City, where at least some 10 nursing mothers, along with 16 trained caregivers, attend to children of working mothers from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Carlos expressed hope the system that is aimed at “optimum growth and developments of infants” could be replicated in other areas. The program, she explained, also ensures that the nursing mothers’ own children are not deprived of proper care. Each breastfeeding mother receives P250 worth of food items that includes five kilograms of rice and canned goods.
The center that started operations on October 23 is a special project set up by Gov. Tomas N. Joson 3rd to provide assistance to working mothers who are forced to leave their children to untrained caregivers. -Armand M. Galang
Maria Victoria Carlos, former regional training officer of the Department of Social Welfare and Development and acting chief of the Provincial Early Childhood Care and Development Office, said the nursing mothers who provide breastfeeding services were “properly screened and trained” for the job.
The PECCDO has created a center at the back of the old Capitol along Burgos Street, Cabanatuan City, where at least some 10 nursing mothers, along with 16 trained caregivers, attend to children of working mothers from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Carlos expressed hope the system that is aimed at “optimum growth and developments of infants” could be replicated in other areas. The program, she explained, also ensures that the nursing mothers’ own children are not deprived of proper care. Each breastfeeding mother receives P250 worth of food items that includes five kilograms of rice and canned goods.
The center that started operations on October 23 is a special project set up by Gov. Tomas N. Joson 3rd to provide assistance to working mothers who are forced to leave their children to untrained caregivers. -Armand M. Galang
Monday, December 11, 2006
5-yr-old girl succumbed to suspected meningo
CABIAO, Nueva Ecija - A 5-year-old girl from Barangay San Fernando Sur here died of suspected meningoccoccemia on Monday at the Paulino J. Garcia Memorial Research and Medical Center.
Dr. Leon de Leon, municipal health officer, said they recommended the immediate burial of the victim as her family refuses to subject the body to further test.
The victim's close contacts were also given shots of antibiotics, he said.
He stressed though that the case was not a hundred percent meningo. "Only suspected of," he said.
It was learned that the victim was rushed to a local clinic in Cabiao due to high fever but attending physician recommended the transfer to PJGMRMC "on protocol." There, the victime expired. -Armand M. Galang
Dr. Leon de Leon, municipal health officer, said they recommended the immediate burial of the victim as her family refuses to subject the body to further test.
The victim's close contacts were also given shots of antibiotics, he said.
He stressed though that the case was not a hundred percent meningo. "Only suspected of," he said.
It was learned that the victim was rushed to a local clinic in Cabiao due to high fever but attending physician recommended the transfer to PJGMRMC "on protocol." There, the victime expired. -Armand M. Galang
Thursday, December 07, 2006
Newsman killed in Nueva Ecija
CABANATUAN CITY - A local newspaperman was killed by two motorcycle-riding men in a daylight attack in Sitio Romantiko, Barangay Sta, Arcadia, Cabanatuan City on Thursday.
Supt. Eliseo Cruz, chief of the city police, identified the victim as Ponciano Grande,53, a resident of St. Nicolas Subd., Bantug Norte, Cabanatuan City. Grande, a former director of the Nueva Ecija PressClub, Inc., is also engaged in rice farming.
Police probers said Grande died on the spot. He sustained five gunshot wounds in head and different parts of his body, reportedly from a cal. 45. Grande's wife, Annie Liwag who also hosts public affairs program over radio dwJJ, was several meters away from him when the gunmen fired at him at about11:00 a.m. Thursday, investigation showed.
Responding authorities rushed Liwag to a local hospital for immediate treatment.
The suyspects were decribed as about 17-years of age and wearing baseball cups. Cruz said the couple had no known enemies.
Cruz said they have yet to establish the motive of the killing.
The NEPCI officers and members strongly condemedthe attack and pressed for the immediate delivery ofjustice.
Supt. Eliseo Cruz, chief of the city police, identified the victim as Ponciano Grande,53, a resident of St. Nicolas Subd., Bantug Norte, Cabanatuan City. Grande, a former director of the Nueva Ecija PressClub, Inc., is also engaged in rice farming.
Police probers said Grande died on the spot. He sustained five gunshot wounds in head and different parts of his body, reportedly from a cal. 45. Grande's wife, Annie Liwag who also hosts public affairs program over radio dwJJ, was several meters away from him when the gunmen fired at him at about11:00 a.m. Thursday, investigation showed.
Responding authorities rushed Liwag to a local hospital for immediate treatment.
The suyspects were decribed as about 17-years of age and wearing baseball cups. Cruz said the couple had no known enemies.
Cruz said they have yet to establish the motive of the killing.
The NEPCI officers and members strongly condemedthe attack and pressed for the immediate delivery ofjustice.
Tuesday, December 05, 2006
Actor throws hat into Ecija politics
CUYAPO, Nueva Ecija -A brother of actor Robin Padilla, touted as the Bad Boy of Philippine movies, is throwing a hat into the local political arena, making an early spice into the provincial political contest.
Rommel Padilla, who co-stars in various films of his brother, took his oath of allegiance to the Bagong Lakas ng Nueva Ecija before party chair and Vice Gov. Mariano Cristino Joson. He was accompanied with Robin in the ceremonies witnessed by hundreds of residents at the municipal gymnasium in Cuyapo town where a medical mission was also being held.
Gov. Tomas N. Joson 3rd, said Padilla is eyed to run for a first district seat at the Sangguniang Panlalawigan even as former basketball player J.V. Yango is finishing his mandatory three-term limit.
It can be recalled that in Robin himself run for vice governor of Nueva Ecija in 1995 under Lakas-CMD as runningmate of the late Cabanatuan City Mayor Honorato Perez. Curiously, the Perez-Padilla tandem was then gunning the posts held by Balane.
Robin lost to Vice Gov. Oscar Tinio.
The Padilla’s matriarch, Eva Cariño, traces her roots at Barangay Nagmisahan, Cuyapo, Nueva Ecija where their close relatives maintain residence.
The Padilla brothers immediately joined he vice governor, who is eyeing the gubernatorial seat in 2007 mid-term elections, in his tour to Talavera, Nueva Ecija where they attended a large meet of women’s groups.
Rommel Padilla, who co-stars in various films of his brother, took his oath of allegiance to the Bagong Lakas ng Nueva Ecija before party chair and Vice Gov. Mariano Cristino Joson. He was accompanied with Robin in the ceremonies witnessed by hundreds of residents at the municipal gymnasium in Cuyapo town where a medical mission was also being held.
Gov. Tomas N. Joson 3rd, said Padilla is eyed to run for a first district seat at the Sangguniang Panlalawigan even as former basketball player J.V. Yango is finishing his mandatory three-term limit.
It can be recalled that in Robin himself run for vice governor of Nueva Ecija in 1995 under Lakas-CMD as runningmate of the late Cabanatuan City Mayor Honorato Perez. Curiously, the Perez-Padilla tandem was then gunning the posts held by Balane.
Robin lost to Vice Gov. Oscar Tinio.
The Padilla’s matriarch, Eva Cariño, traces her roots at Barangay Nagmisahan, Cuyapo, Nueva Ecija where their close relatives maintain residence.
The Padilla brothers immediately joined he vice governor, who is eyeing the gubernatorial seat in 2007 mid-term elections, in his tour to Talavera, Nueva Ecija where they attended a large meet of women’s groups.
Friday, December 01, 2006
Aurora takes spotlight in tourism fair
CLARKFIELD, Pampanga - They came, they saw and they were conquered.
The province of Aurora, one of the country's poorest provinces, surpirisingly took the spotlight with a spectacular presentation that captivated foreign and local tourists which gathered for the laucnh of the three-day 1st North philippines International Tourism Fair at the Events Center of SM-Clark here on Friday.
Some 40 students of the Baler National High School (BNHS), accompanied by a marching band enlivened the event with streetdancing depicting the famous Baler Coco-Sabutan Festival to chants of "Aurora lalawigang itinatag ng galing at sipag (Aurora a province founded on excellence and industry)" as the audience watched in awe.
The students, clad in multi-color costumes, were apparently inspired by the presence of Aurora Governor Bellaflor Angara-Castillo and Vice Governor Annabelle Tangson who were both visibly elated on seeing the students perfrom.
Angara-Castillo said the province was once tapped by the organizers to render the streetdance of all the provinces comprising the three regions and CAR. "Considering that this is an international tourism fair and this is the first to be held in northern Philippines, this is s big honor for the province of Aurora. This is huge," she said. -Armand M. Galang
The province of Aurora, one of the country's poorest provinces, surpirisingly took the spotlight with a spectacular presentation that captivated foreign and local tourists which gathered for the laucnh of the three-day 1st North philippines International Tourism Fair at the Events Center of SM-Clark here on Friday.
Some 40 students of the Baler National High School (BNHS), accompanied by a marching band enlivened the event with streetdancing depicting the famous Baler Coco-Sabutan Festival to chants of "Aurora lalawigang itinatag ng galing at sipag (Aurora a province founded on excellence and industry)" as the audience watched in awe.
The students, clad in multi-color costumes, were apparently inspired by the presence of Aurora Governor Bellaflor Angara-Castillo and Vice Governor Annabelle Tangson who were both visibly elated on seeing the students perfrom.
Angara-Castillo said the province was once tapped by the organizers to render the streetdance of all the provinces comprising the three regions and CAR. "Considering that this is an international tourism fair and this is the first to be held in northern Philippines, this is s big honor for the province of Aurora. This is huge," she said. -Armand M. Galang
"Pacman" to help fans' families
CABANATUAN CITY - The team of the "People's Champion" Manny Pacquiao has pledged to extend relief assistance to two avid fans who were electrocuted, while viewing the Pacquiao vs. Marquez fight 3 on Sunday, Nov. 19 here.
Buboy Fernandez, trainer and best friend of Pacquiao, has reportedly conveyed to the family of the two victims that the Pacquiao Team will undertake the payment of the hospital bills of the two, as well as the funeral expenses of the deceased victim, Jaypee Robles, who died four days from release at the Premiere general hospital here.
Jaypee Robles, 21, and his friend Joey Mallare, 19, both farmers, both residents of Purok 7, Talipapa Norte, this city, sustained third degree burns as a result of electrocution.They were watching the Manny Pacquiao vs. Eric "El Terible" Morales fight on TV at a friend's house in Barangay Pamaldan.Unable to enjoy the fight due to poor reception of the images on the TV set they were watching, the two young men volunteered to fix the antenna by manually altering the iron pole holding the antenna.
Once the cable wires supporting the police were removed, the two moved the antenna to higher ground.However, in the excitement to view the fight and at the same time get a favorable directional setting of the antenna, the iron pole leaned back and landed on a live wire strung nearby which resulted in the electrocution of the two friends.
Mallare's nape, fingers and toes suffered severe burns, while Robles's side of the body, buttocks, fingers, arms and breasts were also severely burned.The victim's families have appealed on TV the other day for assistance from Pacquiao. - MAGTANGGOL C. VILAR
Buboy Fernandez, trainer and best friend of Pacquiao, has reportedly conveyed to the family of the two victims that the Pacquiao Team will undertake the payment of the hospital bills of the two, as well as the funeral expenses of the deceased victim, Jaypee Robles, who died four days from release at the Premiere general hospital here.
Jaypee Robles, 21, and his friend Joey Mallare, 19, both farmers, both residents of Purok 7, Talipapa Norte, this city, sustained third degree burns as a result of electrocution.They were watching the Manny Pacquiao vs. Eric "El Terible" Morales fight on TV at a friend's house in Barangay Pamaldan.Unable to enjoy the fight due to poor reception of the images on the TV set they were watching, the two young men volunteered to fix the antenna by manually altering the iron pole holding the antenna.
Once the cable wires supporting the police were removed, the two moved the antenna to higher ground.However, in the excitement to view the fight and at the same time get a favorable directional setting of the antenna, the iron pole leaned back and landed on a live wire strung nearby which resulted in the electrocution of the two friends.
Mallare's nape, fingers and toes suffered severe burns, while Robles's side of the body, buttocks, fingers, arms and breasts were also severely burned.The victim's families have appealed on TV the other day for assistance from Pacquiao. - MAGTANGGOL C. VILAR
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
Rehabilition of waterways pushed
CABANATUAN CITY - The National Irrigation Administration is pushing for the immediate rehabilitation of “dead waterways” as part of a two-point measure to mitigate the effect to crops of releasing water from Pantabangan Dam in eastern Nueva Ecija.
Engineer Antonio Nangel, operations manager of the NIA-Upper Pampanga River Integrated Irrigation System, said that part of the water released from Pantabangan Dam would be channeled trough the Peñaranda River Irrigation System for irrigation purposes.
In his recommendation, Nangel also pushed for the rehabilitation of the so-called Patay na Ilog, a tributary of the Upper Pampanga River in Barangay Vega, Bongabon, Nueva Ecija. The rehabilitation, he added, will lessen the pressure on the Pampanga River.
This after NIA personnel talked with barangay officials in Barangay Vega who told them that the release of water had caused damages to crops in Baranggay Vega, Bongabon, prompted the recommendation, Nangel explained.
Irrigation authorities decided to open the spillway of Pantabangan Dam when the water elevation rose to 220.8 meters, nearing the automatic spilling level, due to heavy water inflows brought by Typhoon Queenie. -Armand M. Galang
Engineer Antonio Nangel, operations manager of the NIA-Upper Pampanga River Integrated Irrigation System, said that part of the water released from Pantabangan Dam would be channeled trough the Peñaranda River Irrigation System for irrigation purposes.
In his recommendation, Nangel also pushed for the rehabilitation of the so-called Patay na Ilog, a tributary of the Upper Pampanga River in Barangay Vega, Bongabon, Nueva Ecija. The rehabilitation, he added, will lessen the pressure on the Pampanga River.
This after NIA personnel talked with barangay officials in Barangay Vega who told them that the release of water had caused damages to crops in Baranggay Vega, Bongabon, prompted the recommendation, Nangel explained.
Irrigation authorities decided to open the spillway of Pantabangan Dam when the water elevation rose to 220.8 meters, nearing the automatic spilling level, due to heavy water inflows brought by Typhoon Queenie. -Armand M. Galang
Army vs. NPA: 3 killed
CABANATUAN CITY - The hightened campaign by the government against insurgency resulted to the killing of three more suspected New People’s Army guerrillas under a certain Ka Rasul in a daytime encounter with military forces.
Five rifles were recovered in the firefight, which happened in Sitio Lomboy, Barangay Tayabo, San Jose City, about 7 a.m. on Monday.
Lt. Col. Joselito Kakilala, commander of the Army’s 48th Infantry Battalion, said that about 40 fully armed rebels figured in the encounter with the soldiers led by 2nd Lt. Jover Tutanes.
The fatalities were identified as Aries del Prado alias Bosyong or Ken from Villa Marina, San Jose City; a certain Henry from Quezon, Nueva Ecija; and Mar from Mangaldan, Pangasinan.
A rebel returnee who went to the funeral parlor identified the victims, said City Police Chief Supt. Peter Guibong.
Recovered from the encounter area were two M-16 Armalite rifles and one M-14.
In a separate incident, a troop led by 2nd Lt. Tony Pilas encountered some 12 rebels about 11:30 a.m. and recovered two more M-16 rifles. Kakilala said the success of these anti-insurgency operations depends on the cooperation of the residents. --Armand M. Galang
Friday, November 24, 2006
Same names, faces in 2007 elections
PALAYAN CITY -- The same familiar names - and faces- float for the 2007 midterm elections in Nueva Ecija.
Vying, for instance, for Cabanatuan City mayoralty post are Gov. Tomas Joson III and electric firm head Alvin Vergara. Joson is running in tandem reportedly with Ramon Garcia, a former member of the city council while Vergara is planned to be with the incumbent mayor Jay Vergara, his cousin and benefactor. Joson also has a son in his ticket for the city council, according to reports.
In Science City of Muñoz, incumbent Mayor NestorAlvarez has picked his brother, Dr. Efren Alvarez from whom he succeeded the position, as his vice mayoralty tandem.
Former Mayor Manolito Fausto vows a comeback against Mayor Nery Santos, Fausto has finished three terms and had to field his wife in the May 2004 elections.
In San Leonardo town, board member Nap Interior is in fighting stance against Mayor Marvin Martin for the top post in town.
Vice Gov. Mariano Cristino Joson runs for governor this time with his nephew, senior board member Edward Thomas Joson for vice governor. They are facing third district Rep. Aurelio Umali and Joe Taruc, son of one of the dzRH's popular broadcaster, as governor and vice governor, respectively.-Armand M. Galang
Firm cuts off power supply in Central Luzon's "security command post"
FORT RAMON MAGSAYSAY, PALAYAN CITY - The electricity service in this camp, which hosts the 7th Infantry ("Kaugnay") Division - has been cut-off and is currently running on single generator units of 7.5 or 8 kilovolts capacities depending on the area being served.
Although the power supply was cut-off effective Nov. 1, it was only known publicly the other day on questioning by the local media here.
Only last June, President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo has committed to set aside P1 billion for the anti-insurgency campaign of the government.The electricity needs of this 37-hectare camp - touted as the biggest boot camp the army is operating in the country - is being provided by NEECO II-Area 2, which serves 10 muncipalities and the city of Palayan in the central Nueva Ecija area.
According to Nueva Ecija II Electric Cooperative - Area 2 (NEECO II-Area 2) general manager Ramon de Vera, the power supply in the camp was cut-off at the request of Maj. Gen. Juanito Gomez, 7ID commanding general.De Vera said Gomez had himself requested the power cut-off as he had wanted to set the records straight as to how properly the account may be settled without compromising the operations of the various service units in the camp.Without going to details, de Vera said Gomez had partially settled the camp's P6.4-million electric bills as of September, which had accumulated over the years.
"The unpaid electric bills of the camp is now about P4-million," de Vera disclosed even as he said the general has promised to settle the full amount involved within the week.
Gomez, who assumed office here Sept. 11, vice now-retired Maj. Gen. Jovito Palparan Jr., said that several camp commanders before him had tried to settle the account on a staggered basis, which had been approved by the power server. -Magtanggol Vilar
Although the power supply was cut-off effective Nov. 1, it was only known publicly the other day on questioning by the local media here.
Only last June, President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo has committed to set aside P1 billion for the anti-insurgency campaign of the government.The electricity needs of this 37-hectare camp - touted as the biggest boot camp the army is operating in the country - is being provided by NEECO II-Area 2, which serves 10 muncipalities and the city of Palayan in the central Nueva Ecija area.
According to Nueva Ecija II Electric Cooperative - Area 2 (NEECO II-Area 2) general manager Ramon de Vera, the power supply in the camp was cut-off at the request of Maj. Gen. Juanito Gomez, 7ID commanding general.De Vera said Gomez had himself requested the power cut-off as he had wanted to set the records straight as to how properly the account may be settled without compromising the operations of the various service units in the camp.Without going to details, de Vera said Gomez had partially settled the camp's P6.4-million electric bills as of September, which had accumulated over the years.
"The unpaid electric bills of the camp is now about P4-million," de Vera disclosed even as he said the general has promised to settle the full amount involved within the week.
Gomez, who assumed office here Sept. 11, vice now-retired Maj. Gen. Jovito Palparan Jr., said that several camp commanders before him had tried to settle the account on a staggered basis, which had been approved by the power server. -Magtanggol Vilar
Monday, November 20, 2006
Ecija gov't creates tasks force vs meat smuggling
PALAYAN CITY - The provincial government has mobilized a special team "to prevent by all means" the possible entry of allegedly "tainted" frozen pork which formed part of a smuggled P40-million pork shipment from China which disappeared on Nov. 9 at the North Harbor in Manila and mysteriously landed in some places in Tarlac and Pampanga.
In this connection, Vice-Gov. Mariano Cristino "Boyet" Joson, immediately formed a composite team - named "Hoof and Mouth Disease task force" - composed of the provincial offices of the veterinary, agriculturist, health to monitor the entry and sale of frozen meat products which might be used in processing meat products as ham, sausages and others for sale this coming Christmas season.
He had also sought the assistance of the provincial police office, under Nueva Ecija police director, Senior Superintendent Alex Paul Monteagudo, to prevent the entry here of the hot meat.
"Tayo na nga lang sa buong Asia at sa buong mundo ang hindi tinatamaan ng bird flu. Kailangang tanggihan ang ganitong uri ng pagkain na maaaring 'tainted' with animal disease," Joson stressed.
It was learned that the pork shipment had no import permit from the Bureau of Animal Industry and no veterinary quarantine clearance. Consigned to the Asia Golden Arc marketing and brokered by SM Estrada, the hot cargo was earlier ordered confiscated after it was found "misdeclared as frozen mackerel." Originating from China, the shipment was stored at the Sigma Warehouse at the Harbor Center at the North Harbor I Manila after the same was seized by Customs authorities on Sept. 1. Joson had directed the personnel of the veterinary, and police offices to conduct thorough inspections of cargo trucks that might be used in transporting the hot items into the province.
Joson justified his action saying that there is a government ban on the importation of frozen meat from other Asian countries as China, Hong Kong, Pakistan, Cambodia, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, North Korea, Taiwan and Vietnam "to prevent the entry into the Philippines of the dreaded bird flu and other animal diseases."-Magtanggol C. Vilar
In this connection, Vice-Gov. Mariano Cristino "Boyet" Joson, immediately formed a composite team - named "Hoof and Mouth Disease task force" - composed of the provincial offices of the veterinary, agriculturist, health to monitor the entry and sale of frozen meat products which might be used in processing meat products as ham, sausages and others for sale this coming Christmas season.
He had also sought the assistance of the provincial police office, under Nueva Ecija police director, Senior Superintendent Alex Paul Monteagudo, to prevent the entry here of the hot meat.
"Tayo na nga lang sa buong Asia at sa buong mundo ang hindi tinatamaan ng bird flu. Kailangang tanggihan ang ganitong uri ng pagkain na maaaring 'tainted' with animal disease," Joson stressed.
It was learned that the pork shipment had no import permit from the Bureau of Animal Industry and no veterinary quarantine clearance. Consigned to the Asia Golden Arc marketing and brokered by SM Estrada, the hot cargo was earlier ordered confiscated after it was found "misdeclared as frozen mackerel." Originating from China, the shipment was stored at the Sigma Warehouse at the Harbor Center at the North Harbor I Manila after the same was seized by Customs authorities on Sept. 1. Joson had directed the personnel of the veterinary, and police offices to conduct thorough inspections of cargo trucks that might be used in transporting the hot items into the province.
Joson justified his action saying that there is a government ban on the importation of frozen meat from other Asian countries as China, Hong Kong, Pakistan, Cambodia, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, North Korea, Taiwan and Vietnam "to prevent the entry into the Philippines of the dreaded bird flu and other animal diseases."-Magtanggol C. Vilar
DENR upbeat on anti-logging drive; cites support from Army, police
CABANATUAN CITY - Environment officials in Nueva Ecija are upbeat about their anti-illegal logging campaign, pinning hope on the “displayed support” from both the military and police agencies as political activities reportedly opened the gate for illicit activities in some areas.
This as Community Environment and Natural Resources Officer Joselito Blanco reported on Monday the apprehension of another vehicle (DNC-583) loaded with 880 board feet of assorted lumber by joint operatives from Army’s 33rd Mechanized Infantry Battalion and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group in Barangay Sinasajan, Peñaranda, Nueva Ecija.
The CIDG and 33rd MIB, led by Supt. Ferdinand Vero and Col. Leodegario dela Paz, respectively turned over the hot items to the Cenro office for proper disposition. Blanco noted that the latest apprehension was on top of the more than 7,000 bd ft illegally sawn lumber in two of Nueva Ecija’s critical areas over the weekend amid reports that the nefarious activities proliferate last week.
The troops earlier recovered 4,396 bd ft of assorted lumber in Barangay Las Piñas, Peñaranda town then in another operation, elements of theprovincial mobile group headed by Chief Insp. Nick Malazzab and DENR personnel found 3,580 bd ft in Barangay Concepcion, Gen. Tinio. Peñarada and Gen. Tinio are adjacent municipalities, southeast of Nueva Ecija and are both deemed critical in forest condition.
These areas are among places under total log ban.
This as Community Environment and Natural Resources Officer Joselito Blanco reported on Monday the apprehension of another vehicle (DNC-583) loaded with 880 board feet of assorted lumber by joint operatives from Army’s 33rd Mechanized Infantry Battalion and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group in Barangay Sinasajan, Peñaranda, Nueva Ecija.
The CIDG and 33rd MIB, led by Supt. Ferdinand Vero and Col. Leodegario dela Paz, respectively turned over the hot items to the Cenro office for proper disposition. Blanco noted that the latest apprehension was on top of the more than 7,000 bd ft illegally sawn lumber in two of Nueva Ecija’s critical areas over the weekend amid reports that the nefarious activities proliferate last week.
The troops earlier recovered 4,396 bd ft of assorted lumber in Barangay Las Piñas, Peñaranda town then in another operation, elements of theprovincial mobile group headed by Chief Insp. Nick Malazzab and DENR personnel found 3,580 bd ft in Barangay Concepcion, Gen. Tinio. Peñarada and Gen. Tinio are adjacent municipalities, southeast of Nueva Ecija and are both deemed critical in forest condition.
These areas are among places under total log ban.
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
Arroyo lauds PNP on Gringo capture
President Arroyo commended the police operatives who implemented the arrest of former military colonel and former senator Gregorio "Gringo" Honasan.
In his statement, Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye said the President extols the operatives from the Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group for "the hard work that led to the arrest."
Part of Bunye's statement reads:
"This is another milestonethat brings to a close a broad conspiracy to destabilize the Government andis a harbinger of growing political stability underlying steady economicgrowth.
"No one can make a mockery of the law by playing hide and seek with our lawenforcement agencies, and get away with it. We call on (former Senator Gregorio) Honasan’s companions to come out andface the music.
They will be accorded due process like any other Filipinoand there is no need for any quarters to cry persecution. Let the evidence be presented against him and let the courts decide his fate."
In his statement, Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye said the President extols the operatives from the Philippine National Police-Criminal Investigation and Detection Group for "the hard work that led to the arrest."
Part of Bunye's statement reads:
"This is another milestonethat brings to a close a broad conspiracy to destabilize the Government andis a harbinger of growing political stability underlying steady economicgrowth.
"No one can make a mockery of the law by playing hide and seek with our lawenforcement agencies, and get away with it. We call on (former Senator Gregorio) Honasan’s companions to come out andface the music.
They will be accorded due process like any other Filipinoand there is no need for any quarters to cry persecution. Let the evidence be presented against him and let the courts decide his fate."
Ecija govt funds RP Baseball Team for Qatar
PALAYAN CITY -- They would not allow the Baseball team to be out of December Asian Games due to lack of funds. Thus the Nueva Ecija provincial government resolved to provide P600,000 to augment the team’s funding requirement of P1.2 million.
Philippine Sports Commission Chair Ricardo Garcia and Commissioner Robert Aventajado received on Wednesday the check from Gov. Tomas N. Joson 3rd and his son, senior Board Member Edward Thomas at the provincial Capitol here.
Joson said the provincial board, headed by his younger brother, Mariano Cristino "Boyet" Joson, passed and approved the resolution to grant the 22-man RP Baseball Team P600,000 upon learning through newspaper reports that the country could not send it for lack of sufficient budget.
The team has only P500,000 while the funding requirements for the December 1-15, Asian Games at Doha Qatar is P1.2 million.
Incidentally, among the Josons’ top sports projects include the Little League Baseball where the board member who also heads the Team Nueva Ecija Foundation is the provincial chair.
“Nueva Ecija has been a province of baseball and softball enthusiasts. In town and barangay fiestas, softball games lure audience more than basketball or any other sports,” the board said.
Vice Gov. Boyet, it turned out, has been a softball pitcher for San Beda in its NCAA Junior and Senior Teams while Gov. Tommy also played with the Juniors.
“We train here grade school tots and high schoolers for Little League baseball,” the board member noted.
Garcia meanwhile said the RP Team expects to reap at least five golds in the Qatar competition. -Armand M. Galang
Philippine Sports Commission Chair Ricardo Garcia and Commissioner Robert Aventajado received on Wednesday the check from Gov. Tomas N. Joson 3rd and his son, senior Board Member Edward Thomas at the provincial Capitol here.
Joson said the provincial board, headed by his younger brother, Mariano Cristino "Boyet" Joson, passed and approved the resolution to grant the 22-man RP Baseball Team P600,000 upon learning through newspaper reports that the country could not send it for lack of sufficient budget.
The team has only P500,000 while the funding requirements for the December 1-15, Asian Games at Doha Qatar is P1.2 million.
Incidentally, among the Josons’ top sports projects include the Little League Baseball where the board member who also heads the Team Nueva Ecija Foundation is the provincial chair.
“Nueva Ecija has been a province of baseball and softball enthusiasts. In town and barangay fiestas, softball games lure audience more than basketball or any other sports,” the board said.
Vice Gov. Boyet, it turned out, has been a softball pitcher for San Beda in its NCAA Junior and Senior Teams while Gov. Tommy also played with the Juniors.
“We train here grade school tots and high schoolers for Little League baseball,” the board member noted.
Garcia meanwhile said the RP Team expects to reap at least five golds in the Qatar competition. -Armand M. Galang
Monday, November 13, 2006
PNP Chief warns politicians vs. private armies
ZARAGOZA, Nueva Ecija - "No armed private armies, please."
This was the soft refrain of the warning sounded by Philippine National Police Director General Oscar C. Calderon yesterday against politicians who will be gunning for positions come the 2007 elections.Calderon said that if the politicians should insist on putting up their own private armies they would surely be running afoul of the law and he said the police would apply the full force of the law no matter who gets hurt.
The PNP chief's warning gains special significance considering recent experiences where this province has been declared one of the Central Luzon region's election hot spots due to killings of some political personalities.He disclosed that they are having a tough time dissuading Mindanao politicians from resorting to the carrying of firearms due to the tense security situation in the area.
But, he said, the civilian security volunteers of the local politicians there are being required to be listed as police auxiliary groups.
The police auxiliary groups are being trained on the rudiments of responsibility of armed body guards securing local government officials, including the registration of firearms they are using.Calderon's appeal for sobriety in the coming elections attains special meaning since he hails from Nueva Ecija, being a native of Aliaga town, in the light of several violent incidents being linked to political rivalries in several towns in the province in the past.
Last year, however, Nueva Ecija has not been declared an election hot spot and a generally peaceful election has been held with only a few mayoral contests put to protests but has all now been resolved in the lower courts.Calderon was here where he formally graced the ground-breaking ceremony for the Zaragoza police station.Calderon was assisted in the formal ground-breaking rites by Zaragoza Mayor Teodorico Cornes, PRO3 director Chief Superintendent Ismael Rafanan, and Nueva Ecija police director, Senior Superintendent Alex Paul Monteagudo.
Meanwhile, according to Superintendent Roel Obusan, chief of the provincial police intelligence and investigation bureau, their province-wide campaign has resulted in the confiscation of several high-powered firearms and the filing of illegal firearms and explosives possession against their possessors.
Obusan has credited the police's mobile checkpoints in their successful campaign not only on illegal firearms possession but on various street crimes leading to arrests of suspects who have led them to the arrest of notorious enemies of the state. - MAGTANGGOL C. VILAR
This was the soft refrain of the warning sounded by Philippine National Police Director General Oscar C. Calderon yesterday against politicians who will be gunning for positions come the 2007 elections.Calderon said that if the politicians should insist on putting up their own private armies they would surely be running afoul of the law and he said the police would apply the full force of the law no matter who gets hurt.
The PNP chief's warning gains special significance considering recent experiences where this province has been declared one of the Central Luzon region's election hot spots due to killings of some political personalities.He disclosed that they are having a tough time dissuading Mindanao politicians from resorting to the carrying of firearms due to the tense security situation in the area.
But, he said, the civilian security volunteers of the local politicians there are being required to be listed as police auxiliary groups.
The police auxiliary groups are being trained on the rudiments of responsibility of armed body guards securing local government officials, including the registration of firearms they are using.Calderon's appeal for sobriety in the coming elections attains special meaning since he hails from Nueva Ecija, being a native of Aliaga town, in the light of several violent incidents being linked to political rivalries in several towns in the province in the past.
Last year, however, Nueva Ecija has not been declared an election hot spot and a generally peaceful election has been held with only a few mayoral contests put to protests but has all now been resolved in the lower courts.Calderon was here where he formally graced the ground-breaking ceremony for the Zaragoza police station.Calderon was assisted in the formal ground-breaking rites by Zaragoza Mayor Teodorico Cornes, PRO3 director Chief Superintendent Ismael Rafanan, and Nueva Ecija police director, Senior Superintendent Alex Paul Monteagudo.
Meanwhile, according to Superintendent Roel Obusan, chief of the provincial police intelligence and investigation bureau, their province-wide campaign has resulted in the confiscation of several high-powered firearms and the filing of illegal firearms and explosives possession against their possessors.
Obusan has credited the police's mobile checkpoints in their successful campaign not only on illegal firearms possession but on various street crimes leading to arrests of suspects who have led them to the arrest of notorious enemies of the state. - MAGTANGGOL C. VILAR
Pantabangan water reserve decreased
PANTABANGAN, Nueva Ecija - The historic release of water from the mammoth reservoir started on Tuesday as typhoon “Queenie” brought its water elevation to 220.78 meters as of Monday, closely nearing the spilling level of 221 m.
But authorities were quick to allay fears of flashfloods noting that the release is being made during the normalcy of weather and under controlled situation even as their men in the field closely monitor its effect on plants and crops for immediate adjustment.
Engr. Freddie Toquero of the Pantabangan forecasting division, said the water is released at the rate of 135 cubic meters per second in addition to the regular release of 65 cms power generation allocation.
The water, he said, will go to rivers downstream of Pantabangan, from the town of Rizal through Bongabon, Palayan City, Cabanatuan City, Sta. Rosa to the upper Pampang river. The release, he said, will be gradual for at least one week until the elevation level is down to 219. The inflow is currently at about 170 cms, he noted.
Engr. Antonio Nangel, operations manager of the National Irrigation Administration-Upper Pampanga River Integrated Irrigation Project which operates the dam, said the activity is a matter of preparing the dam for possible heavy inflow of more water when another typhoon comes.
“The release was not that strong,” Nangel said. “Kailangang magbawas tayo hanggang maabot ang 219 m para safe kung may dumating na bagyo,” he added, saying the release could even be increased to 300 cms should safety warrants.
Besides the normal water inflow brought by rainfalls on dam areas, water from Casecnan and Taan rivers go into it through an underground tunnel built under the Casecnan Multi-Purpose Irrigation and Power project which is aimed at improving the irrigation and power capacity of the Pantabangan facilities.
Presidential Assistant for North Luzon Renato Diaz also allayed fears pointing the good news behind the increased water reserve. “The release will be controlled and well-supervised while the good thing is that our farmers are assured of enough water for the coming dry crop season,” he said.
But authorities were quick to allay fears of flashfloods noting that the release is being made during the normalcy of weather and under controlled situation even as their men in the field closely monitor its effect on plants and crops for immediate adjustment.
Engr. Freddie Toquero of the Pantabangan forecasting division, said the water is released at the rate of 135 cubic meters per second in addition to the regular release of 65 cms power generation allocation.
The water, he said, will go to rivers downstream of Pantabangan, from the town of Rizal through Bongabon, Palayan City, Cabanatuan City, Sta. Rosa to the upper Pampang river. The release, he said, will be gradual for at least one week until the elevation level is down to 219. The inflow is currently at about 170 cms, he noted.
Engr. Antonio Nangel, operations manager of the National Irrigation Administration-Upper Pampanga River Integrated Irrigation Project which operates the dam, said the activity is a matter of preparing the dam for possible heavy inflow of more water when another typhoon comes.
“The release was not that strong,” Nangel said. “Kailangang magbawas tayo hanggang maabot ang 219 m para safe kung may dumating na bagyo,” he added, saying the release could even be increased to 300 cms should safety warrants.
Besides the normal water inflow brought by rainfalls on dam areas, water from Casecnan and Taan rivers go into it through an underground tunnel built under the Casecnan Multi-Purpose Irrigation and Power project which is aimed at improving the irrigation and power capacity of the Pantabangan facilities.
Presidential Assistant for North Luzon Renato Diaz also allayed fears pointing the good news behind the increased water reserve. “The release will be controlled and well-supervised while the good thing is that our farmers are assured of enough water for the coming dry crop season,” he said.
Sunday, November 12, 2006
Typhoon victim fished out
SAN JOSE CITY - Authorities have fished out on Sunday the body of a 22-year-old man who died of drowning on an over flowing creek due to heavy rains brought by typhoon “Queenie”.
Supt. Peter Guibong, chief of city police, identified the victim as Rocky Donia, a resident of Sitio Palasyan, Barangay Abar 2nd, San Jose City.
Investigation showed the victim was on his way home Saturday night from a drinking spree when his feet slid on a makeshift footbridge of bamboo sticks. The strong current from the overflowing creek drowned the victim, investigation also showed.
Josefino Cleofas, village head, said the water on the creek swelled due to heavy rains brought by “Queenie.”
Meanwhile the heavy rains brought by the recent typhoon brought to near maximum level the water elevation of Pantabangan Dam, according to irrigation officials.
Engr. Antonio Nangel, operations manager of the Upper Pampanga River Integrated Irrigation System which operates the Pantabangan Dam, admitted the water elevation reached 219.7 meters on Sunday, which is barely 1.3 meters below the automatic spilling level. -Armand M. Galang
Supt. Peter Guibong, chief of city police, identified the victim as Rocky Donia, a resident of Sitio Palasyan, Barangay Abar 2nd, San Jose City.
Investigation showed the victim was on his way home Saturday night from a drinking spree when his feet slid on a makeshift footbridge of bamboo sticks. The strong current from the overflowing creek drowned the victim, investigation also showed.
Josefino Cleofas, village head, said the water on the creek swelled due to heavy rains brought by “Queenie.”
Meanwhile the heavy rains brought by the recent typhoon brought to near maximum level the water elevation of Pantabangan Dam, according to irrigation officials.
Engr. Antonio Nangel, operations manager of the Upper Pampanga River Integrated Irrigation System which operates the Pantabangan Dam, admitted the water elevation reached 219.7 meters on Sunday, which is barely 1.3 meters below the automatic spilling level. -Armand M. Galang
Friday, November 10, 2006
Book on golden apple snails released; deals with pest management
Find out how a "miracle" creature became a nuisance to rice farmers through the book titled, "Global Advances in the Ecology and Management of Golden Apple Snails" (GAS).
To be launched on Nov. 14 at SEARCA Auditorium in Los Baños, Laguna, the book was edited by Dr. Ravindra C. Joshi and Dr. Leocadio S. Sebastian, executive director of Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice).
The GAS, also known as golden miracle snail and golden kuhol, was introduced in Asia during the 1980s as supplement to the low-protein diet of the rural poor.
From South America, it was introduced to Taiwan as food source owing to its high protein content. It is also a good source of carbohydrates, sodium, riboflavin, niacin and iodine.
GAS derived its name from the golden delicious apple (a yellow to yellow-green apple with sweet, juicy, crisp flesh) owing to their likeness in color. Attracted to its color, the Taiwanese reared GAS in aquariums for display and cleaning fish's tanks as it feeds on aquarium scum.
However, as snails were produced for consumption and aquarium pet, they escaped into waterways and rapidly spread to Indonesia, Thailand, Cambodia, Hong Kong, southern China, Japan, and the Philippines.
With only a few natural enemies to control them, the snails rapidly Developed into a serious pest in Asia's rice areas. Their fast growth and reproduction - females lay egg masses to a maximum of 500 eggs a week - leads to population levels that can destroy entire rice crop. In the Philippines, reported crop losses owing to GAS reached US$ 1 billion.
This is an alarming statistics for rice farmers, technicians, and extension workers. Researchers around the globe hope that the book can help them manage this pest. The book discusses the ecology and management of GAS, snail taxonomy (traditional and molecular tools), impacts of GAS on aquatic ecosystems and farmers' health, and pesticide abuse/misuse.
Some chapters also tackle its utilization as food and natural paddy weeder. GAS recipes from the Philippines, People's Republic of China, Cambodia, Republic of Korea, Indonesia, and Myanmar were also included.
"This book compiled fragmented and scattered information on GAS," said Robert S. Zeigler, director general of the International Rice Research institute.
The book is published by PhilRice, Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and DICTUC.
The book will be sold at US$52, developing countries other than the Philippines; and US$102, developed countries. It has a special launching price of Php 995 for Philippine buyers only.
For more information, please contact Chona Suner-Narvadez at (044)456-0112. - PhilRice News
To be launched on Nov. 14 at SEARCA Auditorium in Los Baños, Laguna, the book was edited by Dr. Ravindra C. Joshi and Dr. Leocadio S. Sebastian, executive director of Philippine Rice Research Institute (PhilRice).
The GAS, also known as golden miracle snail and golden kuhol, was introduced in Asia during the 1980s as supplement to the low-protein diet of the rural poor.
From South America, it was introduced to Taiwan as food source owing to its high protein content. It is also a good source of carbohydrates, sodium, riboflavin, niacin and iodine.
GAS derived its name from the golden delicious apple (a yellow to yellow-green apple with sweet, juicy, crisp flesh) owing to their likeness in color. Attracted to its color, the Taiwanese reared GAS in aquariums for display and cleaning fish's tanks as it feeds on aquarium scum.
However, as snails were produced for consumption and aquarium pet, they escaped into waterways and rapidly spread to Indonesia, Thailand, Cambodia, Hong Kong, southern China, Japan, and the Philippines.
With only a few natural enemies to control them, the snails rapidly Developed into a serious pest in Asia's rice areas. Their fast growth and reproduction - females lay egg masses to a maximum of 500 eggs a week - leads to population levels that can destroy entire rice crop. In the Philippines, reported crop losses owing to GAS reached US$ 1 billion.
This is an alarming statistics for rice farmers, technicians, and extension workers. Researchers around the globe hope that the book can help them manage this pest. The book discusses the ecology and management of GAS, snail taxonomy (traditional and molecular tools), impacts of GAS on aquatic ecosystems and farmers' health, and pesticide abuse/misuse.
Some chapters also tackle its utilization as food and natural paddy weeder. GAS recipes from the Philippines, People's Republic of China, Cambodia, Republic of Korea, Indonesia, and Myanmar were also included.
"This book compiled fragmented and scattered information on GAS," said Robert S. Zeigler, director general of the International Rice Research institute.
The book is published by PhilRice, Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and DICTUC.
The book will be sold at US$52, developing countries other than the Philippines; and US$102, developed countries. It has a special launching price of Php 995 for Philippine buyers only.
For more information, please contact Chona Suner-Narvadez at (044)456-0112. - PhilRice News
Thursday, November 09, 2006
Gov't troops unearth illicit sawmill in disaster- stricken town of Aurora
DILASAG, AURORA - Government troopers hunting down insurgents have overrun P4-million worth of illegally sawn hard wood and equipment in a clandestine sawmill at the mountain top of calamity stricken town of Dilasag, Aurora, the military reported on Friday.
Lt. Col. Joselito Kakilala , commander of the Army’s 48th Infantry Battalion, said in his report to 7th Infantry Division commander, Major Gen. Juanito Gomez, that his men recovered at about 6 p.m. Tuesday some 152,000 board feet of red and white lawaan, three power generators, two planer machines and a wood-cutting machine.
The volume was determined by the community environment and natural resources officer James Martinez of Casiguran, Aurora.
A follow-up investigation, Kakilala said, showed that the sawmill, located at Barangay Dilaguidi, Dilasag, was purportedly connected with a firm that allegedly transport the hot items via ships and barges that occasionally dock at Barangay Dyanit, also of Dilasag.
Some residents were reportedly employed to cut and saw the trees.
Kakilala said the activity was "not a handiwork of ordinary illegal loggers.” He added: “Well-financed and organized syndicate.”
Gov. Bellaflor Angara-Castillo ordered a full-dressed investigation on the logging activities and ordered her staff to institute charges against the culprits should evidences warrant. - Armand M. Galang
Lt. Col. Joselito Kakilala , commander of the Army’s 48th Infantry Battalion, said in his report to 7th Infantry Division commander, Major Gen. Juanito Gomez, that his men recovered at about 6 p.m. Tuesday some 152,000 board feet of red and white lawaan, three power generators, two planer machines and a wood-cutting machine.
The volume was determined by the community environment and natural resources officer James Martinez of Casiguran, Aurora.
A follow-up investigation, Kakilala said, showed that the sawmill, located at Barangay Dilaguidi, Dilasag, was purportedly connected with a firm that allegedly transport the hot items via ships and barges that occasionally dock at Barangay Dyanit, also of Dilasag.
Some residents were reportedly employed to cut and saw the trees.
Kakilala said the activity was "not a handiwork of ordinary illegal loggers.” He added: “Well-financed and organized syndicate.”
Gov. Bellaflor Angara-Castillo ordered a full-dressed investigation on the logging activities and ordered her staff to institute charges against the culprits should evidences warrant. - Armand M. Galang
Tuesday, November 07, 2006
Ecija's Umali ready for the 2007 polls?
Rep. Aurelio Umali of Nueva Ecija's third district heads series of medical mission in different places, including those outside the territorial boundaries of his congressional representation, percieved to be aimed at bolstering his chances of winning the guernatorial post in the forthcoming local elections.
Chairman of the administration party, Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats, for Nueva Ecija, Umali vows to introduce a new system of politics in the province, over a 110 kilometers north of the Manila.
He reportedly first positioned himself for the gubernatorial race in 2004 but his party, headed by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo forged pact with his local rivals.
Monday, November 06, 2006
Hot lumber recovered in Ecija towns
CABANATUAN CITY: Combined police, military and environment forces have recovered over 7,000 board feet of illegally sawn lumber in two of Nueva Ecija’s critical areas over the weekend, officials reported on Tuesday.
Joselito Blanco, community environment and natural resources officer from South-Nueva Ecija said that elements of the Army’s 33rd Mechanized Infantry Brigade first overrun a suspected drop off point where they recovered 4,396 board feet of assorted lumber in Barangay Las Piñas, Peñaranda town.
In another operation, police special operations group under Supt. Roel Obusan and DENR personnel found 3,580 bd ft in Barangay Concepcion, Gen. Tinio.
Regidor de Leon, Regional Executive Director for Central Luzon, maintains an intensified drive against illegal logging activities, including mere transport of hot forest products as imposed by the agency under Sec. Angelo Reyes.
Meanwhile, Vice Mayor Indira Dayupay also expressed alarm over the resurface of illegal logging operations in their municipality that is crossed by the Sierra Madre mountain range and Donya Remedios Trinidad Watershed area that covers Angat Dam.
But besides Gen. Tinio and Peñaranda, provincial environment and natural resources Rafael Otic said they never ceased from tightly guarding the entire Nueva Ecija where loggers from adjacent provinces pass through.
Joselito Blanco, community environment and natural resources officer from South-Nueva Ecija said that elements of the Army’s 33rd Mechanized Infantry Brigade first overrun a suspected drop off point where they recovered 4,396 board feet of assorted lumber in Barangay Las Piñas, Peñaranda town.
In another operation, police special operations group under Supt. Roel Obusan and DENR personnel found 3,580 bd ft in Barangay Concepcion, Gen. Tinio.
Regidor de Leon, Regional Executive Director for Central Luzon, maintains an intensified drive against illegal logging activities, including mere transport of hot forest products as imposed by the agency under Sec. Angelo Reyes.
Meanwhile, Vice Mayor Indira Dayupay also expressed alarm over the resurface of illegal logging operations in their municipality that is crossed by the Sierra Madre mountain range and Donya Remedios Trinidad Watershed area that covers Angat Dam.
But besides Gen. Tinio and Peñaranda, provincial environment and natural resources Rafael Otic said they never ceased from tightly guarding the entire Nueva Ecija where loggers from adjacent provinces pass through.
Sunday, November 05, 2006
Junkshop owners warned against buying,selling electric wires
CABANATUAN CITY - Selling anything worth P50,000 for only P5,000, is something fishy.
That was how Senior Supt. Alex Paul I. Monteagudo, chief of the Nueva Ecija provincial police office, illustrated a case of anti-fencing before hundreds of junkshop owners from all over the province the other day.
Monteagudo met with all junkshop owners, along with all the chiefs of police in Nueva Ecija’s 32 towns and cities in a conference called by the National Transmission Corp. (Transco) amid the increasing cases of looting of aluminium wires and parts of the firm’s transmission tower.
Jose M. Bautista, officer –in-charge of Transco Nueva Ecija-Aurora Branch, said the company sought police assistance to arrest the problem which create trouble not only to the government’s fund but also poses dangers to people.
“Most of these materials were acquired by loan and the government are still paying for them,” Bautista said. He did not elaborate.
Monteagudo also instructed his men to exercise their visitation power to establishments within their respective jurisdiction in tracking down the suspects. “For the junkshop owners, you have no option but to surrender the things illegally sold to you or call the attention of the police in the event you sense something fishy,” he stressed.
A junkshop owner from the far town of Cuyapo admitted having accumulated a large volume of aluminium wire from his day-to-day business but said his contact in Metro Manila refused to buy them from him. He asked if the government can buy his goods.
But Monteagudo said reiterated the junkshop owner would better sacrifice the money he used in purchasing the illegal items by surrendering them than be charged for it. -Armand M. Galang
That was how Senior Supt. Alex Paul I. Monteagudo, chief of the Nueva Ecija provincial police office, illustrated a case of anti-fencing before hundreds of junkshop owners from all over the province the other day.
Monteagudo met with all junkshop owners, along with all the chiefs of police in Nueva Ecija’s 32 towns and cities in a conference called by the National Transmission Corp. (Transco) amid the increasing cases of looting of aluminium wires and parts of the firm’s transmission tower.
Jose M. Bautista, officer –in-charge of Transco Nueva Ecija-Aurora Branch, said the company sought police assistance to arrest the problem which create trouble not only to the government’s fund but also poses dangers to people.
“Most of these materials were acquired by loan and the government are still paying for them,” Bautista said. He did not elaborate.
Monteagudo also instructed his men to exercise their visitation power to establishments within their respective jurisdiction in tracking down the suspects. “For the junkshop owners, you have no option but to surrender the things illegally sold to you or call the attention of the police in the event you sense something fishy,” he stressed.
A junkshop owner from the far town of Cuyapo admitted having accumulated a large volume of aluminium wire from his day-to-day business but said his contact in Metro Manila refused to buy them from him. He asked if the government can buy his goods.
But Monteagudo said reiterated the junkshop owner would better sacrifice the money he used in purchasing the illegal items by surrendering them than be charged for it. -Armand M. Galang
Friday, November 03, 2006
It's Christmas time
It's Christmas time. Entrepreneurs from Barangay Tabuating, San Leonardo, Nueva Ecija are back to work, producing colorful lanterns in this foto taken by the Nueva Ecija Journal. (Armand M. Galang)
Besides Christmas, politics add color to Novo Ecijanos' lives
NUEVA ECIJA,: Besides Christmas, the election season is now in the air, both for tha national and local political arena, including Nueva Ecija.
Just as the national opposition, in the higly politicized society of the Philippines, announced its initial line up for its senatorial bets for the May 2007 synchronized local and national elections, Nueva Ecija politicians from the provincial down to city and municipal levels are reportedly positioning themselves for the exercise.
All ears were at the first major party meeting among members of the influential Bagong Lakas ng Nueva Ecija (Balane) led by Gov. Tomas N. Joson III at the Nueva Ecija Convention Center in Palayan City last Oct. 30.
Speculations were that the governor would not push through his plan to run for the mayorship of Cabanatuan lest his younger brother Mariano Cristino would loss the votes the camp of Mayor Jay Vergara would deliver.
Vergara has his cousin, power firm manager Alvin Vergara, as pet for the mayoralty post.
Oscar Nieves, information officer of the NUeva Ecija Capitol, laughed off the issue.
Former policeman and city councilor Nonong Cecilio is now a commong feature at the National Bureau of Investigation-Field office insode the old capitol compound were people troop daily, apprently to let them feel his presence. He expressed intention to run for the Cabanatuan City council.
Bunso Roque, a former member of the council, is reportedly eyeing a return to the post.
Observers, meanwhile, are not all sold that Mayor Ernesto Natividad would stick to the Balane. He used be with the Joson's archrival, former Rep. Julita Villareal of fourth district. He switched party affiliation while the city was rocked with controversial cases of assassinations.
Just as the national opposition, in the higly politicized society of the Philippines, announced its initial line up for its senatorial bets for the May 2007 synchronized local and national elections, Nueva Ecija politicians from the provincial down to city and municipal levels are reportedly positioning themselves for the exercise.
All ears were at the first major party meeting among members of the influential Bagong Lakas ng Nueva Ecija (Balane) led by Gov. Tomas N. Joson III at the Nueva Ecija Convention Center in Palayan City last Oct. 30.
Speculations were that the governor would not push through his plan to run for the mayorship of Cabanatuan lest his younger brother Mariano Cristino would loss the votes the camp of Mayor Jay Vergara would deliver.
Vergara has his cousin, power firm manager Alvin Vergara, as pet for the mayoralty post.
Oscar Nieves, information officer of the NUeva Ecija Capitol, laughed off the issue.
Former policeman and city councilor Nonong Cecilio is now a commong feature at the National Bureau of Investigation-Field office insode the old capitol compound were people troop daily, apprently to let them feel his presence. He expressed intention to run for the Cabanatuan City council.
Bunso Roque, a former member of the council, is reportedly eyeing a return to the post.
Observers, meanwhile, are not all sold that Mayor Ernesto Natividad would stick to the Balane. He used be with the Joson's archrival, former Rep. Julita Villareal of fourth district. He switched party affiliation while the city was rocked with controversial cases of assassinations.
Yes, Paeng" boy is alive!
FORT RAMON MAGSAYSAY, Palayan City --Opps, no candlesand flowers for this innocent on All Souls' Day.
While 6-year-old Ian Biarez of Barangay Dimaseset, Dinapigue, Aurora was trully swept away by the strong current, along with his mother Jocelyn,28, with their house during floodings brought by Typhoon "Paeng",he's alive.
Reports showed the boy sustained injuries anf fractures but has survived. His mother, however, was confirmed dead.
There was no immediate information regarding othermembers of this family. He was found after the family's shelter, made of light materials and woods, beached in the area.
The mother and son tandem were the first reportedcasualties on Monday, the day Paeng wrought havoc in many prots of Northern Luzon.
In Aurora province alone, six persons were confirmed dead while 34 were injured, according to the military's monitoring base.
Lt. Col. Joselito Kakilala, commander of thePhilippine Army's 48th Infantry Battalion also saidthat thousands of families from the municipalities of Dinapigue, Casiguran and Dinalungan all of Auroraprovince, have been affected.
In his report, Kakilala identified tha fatalities as Roxanie Mae,5; Aurora Sabel,7, and Joel, 36; allsurnamed Heseta; Shiena Mae Marzan,7; Alipio Reynan,70 and Jocelyn Biarez,28, of Barangay Dimaseset, Dinapigue.
While 6-year-old Ian Biarez of Barangay Dimaseset, Dinapigue, Aurora was trully swept away by the strong current, along with his mother Jocelyn,28, with their house during floodings brought by Typhoon "Paeng",he's alive.
Reports showed the boy sustained injuries anf fractures but has survived. His mother, however, was confirmed dead.
There was no immediate information regarding othermembers of this family. He was found after the family's shelter, made of light materials and woods, beached in the area.
The mother and son tandem were the first reportedcasualties on Monday, the day Paeng wrought havoc in many prots of Northern Luzon.
In Aurora province alone, six persons were confirmed dead while 34 were injured, according to the military's monitoring base.
Lt. Col. Joselito Kakilala, commander of thePhilippine Army's 48th Infantry Battalion also saidthat thousands of families from the municipalities of Dinapigue, Casiguran and Dinalungan all of Auroraprovince, have been affected.
In his report, Kakilala identified tha fatalities as Roxanie Mae,5; Aurora Sabel,7, and Joel, 36; allsurnamed Heseta; Shiena Mae Marzan,7; Alipio Reynan,70 and Jocelyn Biarez,28, of Barangay Dimaseset, Dinapigue.
Thursday, November 02, 2006
Spanish gov't extends financial help to Aurora province
BALER, Aurora - The Spanish government has committed P15 million in developmental grant aid to the provincial government to finance various projects in the province.
Gov. Bellaflor Angara-Castillo said that the assistance falls under the socalled Poder Y Prosperidad del Communidad Project (Poder), a Spanish-funded community driven project implemented by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) through financial aid of the Agecia Espanola de Cooperacion International.
The program, seeks to empower local communities, reduce poverty and improve local governance by adopting the DSWD's strategy anchored on Kalahi-CIDDS (Comprehensive Integrated Delivery of Social Services).
Angara -Castillo said the amount will be used in constructingday-care centers, water systems and flood control systems in 12 barangays in the province. -Armand M. Galang
Gov. Bellaflor Angara-Castillo said that the assistance falls under the socalled Poder Y Prosperidad del Communidad Project (Poder), a Spanish-funded community driven project implemented by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) through financial aid of the Agecia Espanola de Cooperacion International.
The program, seeks to empower local communities, reduce poverty and improve local governance by adopting the DSWD's strategy anchored on Kalahi-CIDDS (Comprehensive Integrated Delivery of Social Services).
Angara -Castillo said the amount will be used in constructingday-care centers, water systems and flood control systems in 12 barangays in the province. -Armand M. Galang
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Nueva Ecija's most senior citizen cited
Gov. Tomas N. Joson III presents the award to Catalina Ramos, who's at age of 99 was named as eldest active member of the Nueva Ecija's Federation of Senior Citizens. She's from the Gen. Llanera town.
Super Typhoon "Paeng" leaves 6 dead, thousands homeless in North Luzon
DINAPIGUE, Aurora - The number of casualties due to typhoon "Paeng" in Aurora towns rose to 6 while the injured to 34, the military monitoring reports showed.
Lt. Col. Joselito Kakilala, commander of the Philippine Army's 48th Infantry Battalion also said that thousands of families from the municipalities of Dinapigue, Casiguran and Dinalungan all of Aurora province, have been affected with hundreds of them now in the government evacuation centers.
In his report, Kakilala identified tha fatalities as Roxanie Mae Heseta,5; Aurora Sabel Heseta,7, and Joel Heseta, 36; Shiena Mae Marzan,7; Alipio Reynan,70; and Jocelyn Biarez,28; of Barangay Dimaseset,Dinapigue.
Among those injured were Ian Biarez,6; Pedro De Vera,55 and his son and 30 others who were not yet identified in the report. The 6-year-old Ian was earlier reported dead with his mother, Jocelyn. Kakilala said that the casualties have their houses swept away by heavy winds or by landslide brought by the Super Typhoon which hit Aurora province early morning last Monday.
Of the houses affected, 843 were totally wrecked while 259, were partially damaged in Dinapigue; in Casiguran, 68 were totally wrecked and 1,955 were partially damaged and in Dinalungan, six houses were partially damaged, the military monitoring base reported.
Of the 4,226 persons affected in Dinapigue, 545 are now in evacuatuion centers; of 17,865 in Casiguran, 600 persons are in evacuation centers while 65 families are in evacuation in Dinalungan town. -Armand M. Galang
Lt. Col. Joselito Kakilala, commander of the Philippine Army's 48th Infantry Battalion also said that thousands of families from the municipalities of Dinapigue, Casiguran and Dinalungan all of Aurora province, have been affected with hundreds of them now in the government evacuation centers.
In his report, Kakilala identified tha fatalities as Roxanie Mae Heseta,5; Aurora Sabel Heseta,7, and Joel Heseta, 36; Shiena Mae Marzan,7; Alipio Reynan,70; and Jocelyn Biarez,28; of Barangay Dimaseset,Dinapigue.
Among those injured were Ian Biarez,6; Pedro De Vera,55 and his son and 30 others who were not yet identified in the report. The 6-year-old Ian was earlier reported dead with his mother, Jocelyn. Kakilala said that the casualties have their houses swept away by heavy winds or by landslide brought by the Super Typhoon which hit Aurora province early morning last Monday.
Of the houses affected, 843 were totally wrecked while 259, were partially damaged in Dinapigue; in Casiguran, 68 were totally wrecked and 1,955 were partially damaged and in Dinalungan, six houses were partially damaged, the military monitoring base reported.
Of the 4,226 persons affected in Dinapigue, 545 are now in evacuatuion centers; of 17,865 in Casiguran, 600 persons are in evacuation centers while 65 families are in evacuation in Dinalungan town. -Armand M. Galang
Monday, October 30, 2006
Nov. 1 is regular holiday in the Philippines
It's holiday in the Philippines, a predominantly Christian nation.
President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo declared November 1 a regular holiday all over the country in time for the traditional observance of the All Saints Day when its people, mostly Catholic, trooped to cemeteries to offer prayer for their departed loved ones.
But unlike in the past years, the following, Nov. 2 which falls on a Thursday, is going to be a working day, just like Oct. 31, which also used to be a holiday.
Some people go to cemeteries on Nov. 2 which is called All Souls' Day.
Most Filipinos reached by the PinoyChronicle, however, expressed belief that divine intervention had it when the typhoon "Paeng" which devastated large portion of Northern Luzon left the since Sunday night, Oct. 29, left the Philippine area of responsibility before the All Saints' Day, locally known as "Undas" or "Araw ng mga Patay."
They believe the Lord really paved the way for an orderly and peaceful observance of the day, which also in many cases, serves as "reunion" among members of Filipino families. -Armand M. Galang
President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo declared November 1 a regular holiday all over the country in time for the traditional observance of the All Saints Day when its people, mostly Catholic, trooped to cemeteries to offer prayer for their departed loved ones.
But unlike in the past years, the following, Nov. 2 which falls on a Thursday, is going to be a working day, just like Oct. 31, which also used to be a holiday.
Some people go to cemeteries on Nov. 2 which is called All Souls' Day.
Most Filipinos reached by the PinoyChronicle, however, expressed belief that divine intervention had it when the typhoon "Paeng" which devastated large portion of Northern Luzon left the since Sunday night, Oct. 29, left the Philippine area of responsibility before the All Saints' Day, locally known as "Undas" or "Araw ng mga Patay."
They believe the Lord really paved the way for an orderly and peaceful observance of the day, which also in many cases, serves as "reunion" among members of Filipino families. -Armand M. Galang
Saturday, October 28, 2006
"Treasure Hunting" threathens residents in Cuyapo, Nueva Ecija
CABANATUAN CITY – Diggings in a private lot in a village in Cuyapo,Nueva Ecija which started in 2002 were complained of by residents of the place because of the ill effects they pose to the community.
The diggings in barangay Landig, that town, according to an earlier investigation by officials of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in Nueva Ecija and by the office of Mayor Grace Uy-Corpus, were purportedly for treasure hunting.
The depth of the diggings in two sites have already reached more than 130 feet (at least 39 meters). The residents, thru their barangay council, said the diggings were observed to be going sideward at the bottom in the directions of the adjacent Catholic cemetery, the barangay road, and residential areas.
Based on documents provided by Novelina Galinato, barangay secretary, the diggings were being done in a lot owned by the late Rodrigo Corpuz. The deceased grandson, Norberto Mercado, leads a group of diggers for a treasurer hunting activity.
They are allegedly being financed by an official of an irrigation system in Pangasinan.
The treasure hunting was without permit although there is a pending application filed by the alleged financier. Anselmo Abungan, director of the Mines and Geosciences Bureau in Region III, issued last August, after receiving confirmation of the diggings, a warning to Mercado to refrain from continuing (his digging) activity..
Up until this month, the residents noted that the diggings continued. This prompted the barangay council, which started calling the attention of authorities concerned about the diggings since March this year, to pass a resolution asking Mercado to stop the digging and close the mouth of the excavated area. Copies of the resolution were sent to the mayor,
chief of police and to other officials of the town.
The diameter of each of the dug holes is about four meters.
The barangay council, among others, said that because of the continuous draining of the excavation sites, the residents complained of inadequate domestic water that they can draw from the water table thru their respective forced-pumps. The community, about a kilometer from the town proper, has 350 households.
It also said that because of the diggings, possible cave-ins may occur in the residential area. It also said that residents fear that some children and adults may stray into the open holes and suffer injuries or even die.
Barangay captain Edgardo Estibar, in a phone interview, said that until Friday their request to close the mouth of the holes was still unheeded.
“Pero huminto na po kamakalawa ang paghuhukay (But thee diggings stopped the other day),” Estibar said.
He, however, aired the worry of residents that unless constantly checked by higher authorities, the digging activities may still continue. A cover of boulders to the mouth of the holes would proved that the diggings have stopped for good.- Anselmo Roque
The diggings in barangay Landig, that town, according to an earlier investigation by officials of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in Nueva Ecija and by the office of Mayor Grace Uy-Corpus, were purportedly for treasure hunting.
The depth of the diggings in two sites have already reached more than 130 feet (at least 39 meters). The residents, thru their barangay council, said the diggings were observed to be going sideward at the bottom in the directions of the adjacent Catholic cemetery, the barangay road, and residential areas.
Based on documents provided by Novelina Galinato, barangay secretary, the diggings were being done in a lot owned by the late Rodrigo Corpuz. The deceased grandson, Norberto Mercado, leads a group of diggers for a treasurer hunting activity.
They are allegedly being financed by an official of an irrigation system in Pangasinan.
The treasure hunting was without permit although there is a pending application filed by the alleged financier. Anselmo Abungan, director of the Mines and Geosciences Bureau in Region III, issued last August, after receiving confirmation of the diggings, a warning to Mercado to refrain from continuing (his digging) activity..
Up until this month, the residents noted that the diggings continued. This prompted the barangay council, which started calling the attention of authorities concerned about the diggings since March this year, to pass a resolution asking Mercado to stop the digging and close the mouth of the excavated area. Copies of the resolution were sent to the mayor,
chief of police and to other officials of the town.
The diameter of each of the dug holes is about four meters.
The barangay council, among others, said that because of the continuous draining of the excavation sites, the residents complained of inadequate domestic water that they can draw from the water table thru their respective forced-pumps. The community, about a kilometer from the town proper, has 350 households.
It also said that because of the diggings, possible cave-ins may occur in the residential area. It also said that residents fear that some children and adults may stray into the open holes and suffer injuries or even die.
Barangay captain Edgardo Estibar, in a phone interview, said that until Friday their request to close the mouth of the holes was still unheeded.
“Pero huminto na po kamakalawa ang paghuhukay (But thee diggings stopped the other day),” Estibar said.
He, however, aired the worry of residents that unless constantly checked by higher authorities, the digging activities may still continue. A cover of boulders to the mouth of the holes would proved that the diggings have stopped for good.- Anselmo Roque
Friday, October 27, 2006
Statement of President Arroyo
We bow to the rule of democracy and the rule of law; and call upon the people, especially the strong and committed supporters of the people’s initiative, to join hands in supporting the close decision of the High Court. This is democracy in action and we must uphold it.
I extol those who fought for the people’s initiative for their patriotism, perseverance and courage.
The great idea of Charter reform lives on and we must keep the fire burning. This is about creating a modern, working Philippines; to leave behind the degenerated system that is holding the nation back and keeping it too poor and too divided.
We have a vision of having the Philippines join the ranks of first world nations by 2020 and a modern, more cohesive and more accountable political structure is key to achieving that goal.
We leave it now to the concerned institutions as to how we can keep the dreams of the people ascendant and heed the imperatives of change.
I extol those who fought for the people’s initiative for their patriotism, perseverance and courage.
The great idea of Charter reform lives on and we must keep the fire burning. This is about creating a modern, working Philippines; to leave behind the degenerated system that is holding the nation back and keeping it too poor and too divided.
We have a vision of having the Philippines join the ranks of first world nations by 2020 and a modern, more cohesive and more accountable political structure is key to achieving that goal.
We leave it now to the concerned institutions as to how we can keep the dreams of the people ascendant and heed the imperatives of change.
Thursday, October 26, 2006
Nueva Ecija court orders govt to pay landowners P17-million
CABANATUAN CITY – The court has ordered the city government of Cabanatuan to pay P17 million to the owners, three of them now over 70 years old and two dead, of a landed property it has taken from them for over 16 years now.
In his decision promulgated the other day, Regional Trial Court Branch 36 Judge Raymundo Z. Annang, ordered Mayor Julius Cesar V. Vergara, in his capacity as city mayor, and the Sangguniang Panlungsod, to pay the petitioners P17,027,900 as just compensation for 7,240 sqaure meters the prime property situated in Paco Roman Extension, Barangay Barrera, which the government converted into road since 1989.
Three of the petitioners, Ramon Melencio Jr., Lourdes Melencio Grecia, Gregoria Melencio Mina, have died while the case was in progress, court records showed.
Atty. Lydia Bauto-Hipolito, the petitioners’ counsel, said Gregoria Mina died last week with unpaid bills amounting to about P1-million at St. Luke’s Medical Center. The court also ordered Vergara and the Sanggunian to pay 50,000 as attorney's fees and P50,000 actual expenses and damages.
Hipolito said the decision was a victory to the complainants who "are already in their twilight years [over 70s], as in fact, three of them already died.”
Hipolito had filed on Oct. 20 with the court a "Motion for Partial Execution" pending appeal of an amount of at least P10 million, in the interest of justice and" for good reason" the fact that the petitioners are the owners of the land in question, adding that the two surviving petitioners in their late 70's "are all now sickly, and are taking regular medicines just to sustain their health and prolong their lives a bit more."
The court stressed that the city's failure to pay is "unfair to, and in violation of the constitutional right of the petitioners to just compensation.” - Armand M. Galang
In his decision promulgated the other day, Regional Trial Court Branch 36 Judge Raymundo Z. Annang, ordered Mayor Julius Cesar V. Vergara, in his capacity as city mayor, and the Sangguniang Panlungsod, to pay the petitioners P17,027,900 as just compensation for 7,240 sqaure meters the prime property situated in Paco Roman Extension, Barangay Barrera, which the government converted into road since 1989.
Three of the petitioners, Ramon Melencio Jr., Lourdes Melencio Grecia, Gregoria Melencio Mina, have died while the case was in progress, court records showed.
Atty. Lydia Bauto-Hipolito, the petitioners’ counsel, said Gregoria Mina died last week with unpaid bills amounting to about P1-million at St. Luke’s Medical Center. The court also ordered Vergara and the Sanggunian to pay 50,000 as attorney's fees and P50,000 actual expenses and damages.
Hipolito said the decision was a victory to the complainants who "are already in their twilight years [over 70s], as in fact, three of them already died.”
Hipolito had filed on Oct. 20 with the court a "Motion for Partial Execution" pending appeal of an amount of at least P10 million, in the interest of justice and" for good reason" the fact that the petitioners are the owners of the land in question, adding that the two surviving petitioners in their late 70's "are all now sickly, and are taking regular medicines just to sustain their health and prolong their lives a bit more."
The court stressed that the city's failure to pay is "unfair to, and in violation of the constitutional right of the petitioners to just compensation.” - Armand M. Galang
Wednesday, October 25, 2006
San Antonio gov't "in hot water"
SAN ANTONIO, Nueva Ecija - The local government here is in hot water after having allegedly made "illegal connections" of the water service line earlier disconnected by the local water district for an allegedly unpaid P180,000 water bills.
The municipal government is reportedly consuming about 130 cubic meters a month. The "free water use" privilege which was denied by the San Antonio Water District (SAWD), plus the collection of an accumulated water bill for 2005 totaling P115,872.05, had led to the eventual "suspension," and filing of administrative cases, against its general manager, Antonio M. Ortiz.
It did not stop there, with an officer-in-charge (OIC) designated to take over the SAWD having taken action against the local government by disconnecting its "water service line" for an accumulated P180,000 unpaid water bills, the imminent suspension of OIC Marinette A. Fernandez - for alleged "manufactured and fabricated complaints - appears almost a certainty.
All the above, courtesy of San Antonio's Sanggunian, according to the petitioners who have filed a special civil action before the Gapan City Regional Trial Court for Petition for Certiorari, Prohibition and Mandamus with prayer for the issuance of a temporary restraining order (TRO) or preliminary injunction. Cited as respondents in the case are San Antonio Mayor Jose Lapuz Salonga, Councilor Arvin C. Salonga, San Antonio Water District (SAWD) Chairman of the Board Roberto R. Crisostomo, and SAWD Board Members Dondie Lamson, Alfredo B. Lopez, Adoracion M. Balbona, Allan C. Zapata Senia, Municipal Budget Officer Armando Cruz, and Chief of Police, Supt. Bayani Aquino.
Lawyer Lydia Bauto-Hipolito, counsel for petitioners SAWD GM Antonio M. Ortiz, and OIC Marinette A. Fernandez, is asking for issuance of a TRO to stop the town mayor and the town's Sanggunian from "committing acts detrimental to the rights, and interests of petitioners, herein, without let-up." Also being asked to be restrained it town's police chief, Supt. Bayani Aquino, from committing any acts that would be perceived, as a form of harassment, intimidation and threat to petitioners as well as SAWD personnel pending hearing."
Hipolito assailed the legality of the actions undertaken by the Sanggunian for want of jurisdiction, and for failure to exercise due process of law, that led to the 90-day suspension of GM Ortiz running from Aug. 9 to November, 2006, without or in excess of its jurisdiction. Court papers showed that the dispute arose from a request on Aug. 23, 2004 of the Sanggunian for "free water service" for five service connections being used by the town government under Mayor Salonga.
The Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) which has supervision and control over SAWD referred back the matter to the SAWD Board recommending the grant of only 10 cubic meters of free water service to the municipality adding, nonetheless, financial condition and operational policies should not be jeopardized." Ortiz on Jan. 3, 2006 advised the Sanggunian about the SAWD board resolution, at the same time that he sent the water bill of San Antonio from March to Dec. 2005 in the total amount of P115,872.05.
The Sanggunian, on Jan. 9, 2006, specifically Councilor Arvin Salonga apparently did not take kindly to the actions of Ortiz and filed an administrative case against the OIC for allegedly presenting a SAWD board resolution only signed by him (Ortiz). Ortiz had reasoned out that the subject matter had been approved in open session by the SAWD board and its formal signing would be made on Jan. 11, 2006 yet.
SAWD OIC Ms. Marinette Fernandez got the ire of the Sanggunian when on Oct. 9, she caused the disconnection of the water services of the Municipal Government. Despite notice and demand, the local government still failed to pay its P180,000 accumulated unpaid water bills from Jan. to Sept. 2006.
The town's Budget Officer Armando Cruz on Oct. 17, allegedly reconnected the town's water service line "without the knowledge and consent of SAWD, Officer-in-Charge Marinette Fernandez, the complaint stated. - MAGTANGGOL C. VILAR
The municipal government is reportedly consuming about 130 cubic meters a month. The "free water use" privilege which was denied by the San Antonio Water District (SAWD), plus the collection of an accumulated water bill for 2005 totaling P115,872.05, had led to the eventual "suspension," and filing of administrative cases, against its general manager, Antonio M. Ortiz.
It did not stop there, with an officer-in-charge (OIC) designated to take over the SAWD having taken action against the local government by disconnecting its "water service line" for an accumulated P180,000 unpaid water bills, the imminent suspension of OIC Marinette A. Fernandez - for alleged "manufactured and fabricated complaints - appears almost a certainty.
All the above, courtesy of San Antonio's Sanggunian, according to the petitioners who have filed a special civil action before the Gapan City Regional Trial Court for Petition for Certiorari, Prohibition and Mandamus with prayer for the issuance of a temporary restraining order (TRO) or preliminary injunction. Cited as respondents in the case are San Antonio Mayor Jose Lapuz Salonga, Councilor Arvin C. Salonga, San Antonio Water District (SAWD) Chairman of the Board Roberto R. Crisostomo, and SAWD Board Members Dondie Lamson, Alfredo B. Lopez, Adoracion M. Balbona, Allan C. Zapata Senia, Municipal Budget Officer Armando Cruz, and Chief of Police, Supt. Bayani Aquino.
Lawyer Lydia Bauto-Hipolito, counsel for petitioners SAWD GM Antonio M. Ortiz, and OIC Marinette A. Fernandez, is asking for issuance of a TRO to stop the town mayor and the town's Sanggunian from "committing acts detrimental to the rights, and interests of petitioners, herein, without let-up." Also being asked to be restrained it town's police chief, Supt. Bayani Aquino, from committing any acts that would be perceived, as a form of harassment, intimidation and threat to petitioners as well as SAWD personnel pending hearing."
Hipolito assailed the legality of the actions undertaken by the Sanggunian for want of jurisdiction, and for failure to exercise due process of law, that led to the 90-day suspension of GM Ortiz running from Aug. 9 to November, 2006, without or in excess of its jurisdiction. Court papers showed that the dispute arose from a request on Aug. 23, 2004 of the Sanggunian for "free water service" for five service connections being used by the town government under Mayor Salonga.
The Local Water Utilities Administration (LWUA) which has supervision and control over SAWD referred back the matter to the SAWD Board recommending the grant of only 10 cubic meters of free water service to the municipality adding, nonetheless, financial condition and operational policies should not be jeopardized." Ortiz on Jan. 3, 2006 advised the Sanggunian about the SAWD board resolution, at the same time that he sent the water bill of San Antonio from March to Dec. 2005 in the total amount of P115,872.05.
The Sanggunian, on Jan. 9, 2006, specifically Councilor Arvin Salonga apparently did not take kindly to the actions of Ortiz and filed an administrative case against the OIC for allegedly presenting a SAWD board resolution only signed by him (Ortiz). Ortiz had reasoned out that the subject matter had been approved in open session by the SAWD board and its formal signing would be made on Jan. 11, 2006 yet.
SAWD OIC Ms. Marinette Fernandez got the ire of the Sanggunian when on Oct. 9, she caused the disconnection of the water services of the Municipal Government. Despite notice and demand, the local government still failed to pay its P180,000 accumulated unpaid water bills from Jan. to Sept. 2006.
The town's Budget Officer Armando Cruz on Oct. 17, allegedly reconnected the town's water service line "without the knowledge and consent of SAWD, Officer-in-Charge Marinette Fernandez, the complaint stated. - MAGTANGGOL C. VILAR
Sunday, October 22, 2006
Filipino-Chinese suspects seek dismissal of drugs charges
BALER, Aurora — The four Chinese nationals sought the dismissal of the illegal drugs cases filed against them in connection with the raid on a clandestine shabu laboratory in Dingalan town last August.
Lawyer William de los Santos filed the motion to quash with Judge Armando Yanga of Regional Trial Court Branch 66 as counsel for Sy Tho, Whang Tha Ti, Chin Na Chua, and Chen Chien.
The four are facing for violations of the Comprehensive Drugs Act of 2002.
It can be recalled that the raid conducted on Aug. 30 by the combined forces from the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the National Bureau of INvestigation (NBI) in Barangay Butas na Bato, Dingalan town yielded 5.44 kilograms of shabu worth about P120 million.
Lawyer William de los Santos filed the motion to quash with Judge Armando Yanga of Regional Trial Court Branch 66 as counsel for Sy Tho, Whang Tha Ti, Chin Na Chua, and Chen Chien.
The four are facing for violations of the Comprehensive Drugs Act of 2002.
It can be recalled that the raid conducted on Aug. 30 by the combined forces from the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the National Bureau of INvestigation (NBI) in Barangay Butas na Bato, Dingalan town yielded 5.44 kilograms of shabu worth about P120 million.
Friday, October 20, 2006
Central Luzon farmers enjoy rice prices
CABANATUAN CITY - Central Luzon farmers enjoy a considerably high farm-gate prices of palay as harvest season starts in the central plains, grains officials said.
According to the National Food Authority (NFA) Central Luzon the clean and dry palay prices in the region’s seven provinces ranged from P10.50 to P12.50 per kilogram averaging at P11.61/kg, based on data gathering the agency conducts.
Skin dry, or freshly harvested palay, on the other hand, is sold at P9.78 to P12 a kilogram averaging at P10.36/kg, the NFA data showed.
NFA Region 3 Director Nicolas Crisostomo said that the stable prices of palay in the region is a good sign for farmers even as the food agency is poised to buy around 165,000 bags of palay for the last quarter of the year or during the main harvest season.
Crisostomo said that the competitive price in the private markets gives them the opportunity to concentrate on procuring paddy from far-flung areas in the region. He created at least 11 mobile procurement teams that were initially dispatched to cater to farmers in those areas to ensure they will get a fair price for their produce.
The NFA has put up 41 buying stations throughout the region even as the agency readied a total of P5 million as procurement budget in Central Luzon which, Crisostomo said, will be augmented as the need arises to avoid delays in payment, he stressed.
The NFA buys palay from farmers at P10/kg with an additional incentive of P0.50/kg for farmer cooperatives.
Central Luzon includes the provinces of Nueva Ecija, Aurora, Tarlac, Bulacan, Bataan, Zambales and Pampanga. (Armand M. Galang)
According to the National Food Authority (NFA) Central Luzon the clean and dry palay prices in the region’s seven provinces ranged from P10.50 to P12.50 per kilogram averaging at P11.61/kg, based on data gathering the agency conducts.
Skin dry, or freshly harvested palay, on the other hand, is sold at P9.78 to P12 a kilogram averaging at P10.36/kg, the NFA data showed.
NFA Region 3 Director Nicolas Crisostomo said that the stable prices of palay in the region is a good sign for farmers even as the food agency is poised to buy around 165,000 bags of palay for the last quarter of the year or during the main harvest season.
Crisostomo said that the competitive price in the private markets gives them the opportunity to concentrate on procuring paddy from far-flung areas in the region. He created at least 11 mobile procurement teams that were initially dispatched to cater to farmers in those areas to ensure they will get a fair price for their produce.
The NFA has put up 41 buying stations throughout the region even as the agency readied a total of P5 million as procurement budget in Central Luzon which, Crisostomo said, will be augmented as the need arises to avoid delays in payment, he stressed.
The NFA buys palay from farmers at P10/kg with an additional incentive of P0.50/kg for farmer cooperatives.
Central Luzon includes the provinces of Nueva Ecija, Aurora, Tarlac, Bulacan, Bataan, Zambales and Pampanga. (Armand M. Galang)
Mayor of RP's prime city scores victory
Mayor Jejomar Binay of Makati City who was subject of a 60-day preventive suspension the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) served last week expressed on Fridayhope that the victory he gained on first round at the Court of Appeals (CA) would be for good.
THe mayor, reiterating his claim that the charges against him and 17 other Makati officials of maintaining "ghost" or non-existent employees in their governemnt offices, were mere fabrication. Binay whose city is the Philippines' financial capital is a vocal critic of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
The CA has issued a temporary restraining order (TRO) against the suspension. It ordered Binay to post a bond of P200,000.
THe Court also ordered Executive Sec. Eduardo Ermita and the DILG to file comments within 10 days in connection with BInay's petition that quuestioned the preventive suspension imposed on him and fellow officials.
THe mayor, reiterating his claim that the charges against him and 17 other Makati officials of maintaining "ghost" or non-existent employees in their governemnt offices, were mere fabrication. Binay whose city is the Philippines' financial capital is a vocal critic of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
The CA has issued a temporary restraining order (TRO) against the suspension. It ordered Binay to post a bond of P200,000.
THe Court also ordered Executive Sec. Eduardo Ermita and the DILG to file comments within 10 days in connection with BInay's petition that quuestioned the preventive suspension imposed on him and fellow officials.
Thursday, October 19, 2006
City social office looks into child labor cases in Philippine CIty
CABANATUAN CITY – The city’s social welfare and development office here is conducting a non-stop campaign against child trafficking and child exploitation with the end in view of minimizing trauma on the youngsters’ impressionable minds.
Ms. Helen Bagasao, city social welfare and development officer, with the assistance of the police, health offices, and a handful of civic organizations, have been periodically conducting visits of the workplaces which are possible employers of minor persons.
Bagasao reported during a recent media forum aired over DWJJ that most of the employers of minor children are the parents of the children themselves.
In the past year, there have been apprehensions of minor girl workers employed by eateries and videoke bars which serve as fronts for prostitution. Although the corresponding charges have been filed with the various trial courts, no convictions have been known yet as the establishment owners have fled and the places of business have just made a change of name.
The frequent and nagging presence of social workers in their fun houses, have resulted in ferreting out illegal operators hiring minors and undocumented entertainers and guest relations officers. Now, every single operator here have learned to follow the local health laws or else they face closure and face charges harboring and exploiting minors.
Ms. Bagasao takes pride that the coordination of her office and that the health office under Dr. Gilbert Embuscado has significantly contributed to the non-proliferation of sexually transmitted diseases in this city with no less than 30 fun houses offering entertainment packages to the city’s macho population.
The busiest office of the city government, undertaking various welfare projects and support services with other local and national undertakings, Ms. Bagasao has credited Mayor Jay Vergara for his full support of her office’s activities.
Ms. Bagasao revealed that the care and ministration of the welfare of street children have been the prime concern of the mayor’s better half, Ma’am Ria.
Thanks to her, Ms. Bagasao said, the operation of the Haven of Joy for Street Children Center and Roving Day Care Center for Street Children have been running smoothly and effectively.
Under this program, she said, the kids, from age seven to 14, gets daily tutoring of an average of three hours daily. A special teacher provided by the local school board sees to it that those under the centers get to know their ABCs. Value formation is paramount daily bread for the youngsters.
Every now and then, the street kids under the city’s centers receive feeding and medical care.
After their tutoring, the street waifs are allowed to go about their trade mopping up floors of passenger vehicles, selling newspapers, tending stores, running errands for whoever needs their services. No complaints have reached the welfare office, it was learned.
The parents utilizing the services of their young children are reminded that they should not be pushed to the limit unlike their elders.
Also, Ms. Bagasao’s office is carefully screening households availing of domestic services offered by minors.
Minor domestic helpers coming from outside the province and region are a “no-no” for the city’s social welfare’s office, the rationale here being that they are much too young to resist exploitation, especially the sexual kind, that might be practiced on them by their employers.
She said they had intervened in several cases where they cause the return of the minors to their point of origin back to their parents. – MAGTANGGOL C. VILAR
Ms. Helen Bagasao, city social welfare and development officer, with the assistance of the police, health offices, and a handful of civic organizations, have been periodically conducting visits of the workplaces which are possible employers of minor persons.
Bagasao reported during a recent media forum aired over DWJJ that most of the employers of minor children are the parents of the children themselves.
In the past year, there have been apprehensions of minor girl workers employed by eateries and videoke bars which serve as fronts for prostitution. Although the corresponding charges have been filed with the various trial courts, no convictions have been known yet as the establishment owners have fled and the places of business have just made a change of name.
The frequent and nagging presence of social workers in their fun houses, have resulted in ferreting out illegal operators hiring minors and undocumented entertainers and guest relations officers. Now, every single operator here have learned to follow the local health laws or else they face closure and face charges harboring and exploiting minors.
Ms. Bagasao takes pride that the coordination of her office and that the health office under Dr. Gilbert Embuscado has significantly contributed to the non-proliferation of sexually transmitted diseases in this city with no less than 30 fun houses offering entertainment packages to the city’s macho population.
The busiest office of the city government, undertaking various welfare projects and support services with other local and national undertakings, Ms. Bagasao has credited Mayor Jay Vergara for his full support of her office’s activities.
Ms. Bagasao revealed that the care and ministration of the welfare of street children have been the prime concern of the mayor’s better half, Ma’am Ria.
Thanks to her, Ms. Bagasao said, the operation of the Haven of Joy for Street Children Center and Roving Day Care Center for Street Children have been running smoothly and effectively.
Under this program, she said, the kids, from age seven to 14, gets daily tutoring of an average of three hours daily. A special teacher provided by the local school board sees to it that those under the centers get to know their ABCs. Value formation is paramount daily bread for the youngsters.
Every now and then, the street kids under the city’s centers receive feeding and medical care.
After their tutoring, the street waifs are allowed to go about their trade mopping up floors of passenger vehicles, selling newspapers, tending stores, running errands for whoever needs their services. No complaints have reached the welfare office, it was learned.
The parents utilizing the services of their young children are reminded that they should not be pushed to the limit unlike their elders.
Also, Ms. Bagasao’s office is carefully screening households availing of domestic services offered by minors.
Minor domestic helpers coming from outside the province and region are a “no-no” for the city’s social welfare’s office, the rationale here being that they are much too young to resist exploitation, especially the sexual kind, that might be practiced on them by their employers.
She said they had intervened in several cases where they cause the return of the minors to their point of origin back to their parents. – MAGTANGGOL C. VILAR
Wednesday, October 18, 2006
Fight vs. communist insurgents continues: youthful rebel killed
Authorities exhumed the body of a 19-year-old suspected Communist Party of the Philippines-New People's Army rebel from the public cemetery in Carranglan, Nueva Ecija, days after he was killed in an encounter with Army troopers in Dupax, Nueva Vizcaya.
Lt. Col. Joselito Kakilala, commander of the Philippine Army's 48th Infantry Battalion, said that the remains of Claro Fragata were claimed by his father, Alfredo, and the village head of Barangay Kita-kita, San JOse City on Tuesday.
Kakilala said Fragata alias Ka Nasa was among the 10 suspected NPA guerillas his troops encountered in Nueva Vizcaya on OCt. 13. Recovered from Ka Nasa was an M-16 Armalite rifle and a backpack (bag) full of sugar cane cut into pieces "which apparently serve as his meals in a week of running."
Information gathered by the military showed Ka Nasa joined the NPA movement when he was 17. His mother is an overseas Filipino worker in Hong Kong, Kakilala said.
The NPA has yet to issue statement regarding the claim.
Lt. Col. Joselito Kakilala, commander of the Philippine Army's 48th Infantry Battalion, said that the remains of Claro Fragata were claimed by his father, Alfredo, and the village head of Barangay Kita-kita, San JOse City on Tuesday.
Kakilala said Fragata alias Ka Nasa was among the 10 suspected NPA guerillas his troops encountered in Nueva Vizcaya on OCt. 13. Recovered from Ka Nasa was an M-16 Armalite rifle and a backpack (bag) full of sugar cane cut into pieces "which apparently serve as his meals in a week of running."
Information gathered by the military showed Ka Nasa joined the NPA movement when he was 17. His mother is an overseas Filipino worker in Hong Kong, Kakilala said.
The NPA has yet to issue statement regarding the claim.
Monday, October 16, 2006
Tension grips Philippines' key city
TENSION grips Makati city, tagged as the Philippines' financial capital, as a ranking official of the Department of Interior and Local Government, tries to serve a suspension order against Mayor Jejomar Binay and other local officials over charges of hiring ghost employees.
Binay is now at the city hall while a large number of supporters appears to be in a position to defend him from what they call "a political harrasment." Binay is a vocal critic of the administration of Pres. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
The DILG, however, insisted the order was lawful.
Binay is now at the city hall while a large number of supporters appears to be in a position to defend him from what they call "a political harrasment." Binay is a vocal critic of the administration of Pres. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.
The DILG, however, insisted the order was lawful.
Sunday, October 15, 2006
570 rebels surrender, 4 arrested in Nueva Ecija city
FORT RAMON MAGSAYSAY, Palayan City - Some 570 New People's Army communist rebels surrendered with 320 assorted firearms as military and residents burned effigies of Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP-NPA) leaders Jose Maria Sison and Gregorio Rosal in San Jose City last Oct. 15, the military reported.
Lt. Col. Jose Kakilala, commander of the Philippine Army's 48th Infantry Battalion, said that the surrender of the rebels was facilitated by village and local officials who wanted peace and order kept in their respective jurisdiction.
Besides the surrenderees, four other communist rebels were arrested in a raid in their encampment in Dupinga, Gabaldon, Nueva Ecija by the combined forces from the Crimininal INvestigation and Detection Group (CIDG) led by Supt. Ferdinand Vero and the military team.
The raid was made last Oct. 12, according to Vero, days after the NPA head Leopoldo Caluza was nabbed in Baguio City by the Nueva Ecija police operatives.
Lt. Col. Jose Kakilala, commander of the Philippine Army's 48th Infantry Battalion, said that the surrender of the rebels was facilitated by village and local officials who wanted peace and order kept in their respective jurisdiction.
Besides the surrenderees, four other communist rebels were arrested in a raid in their encampment in Dupinga, Gabaldon, Nueva Ecija by the combined forces from the Crimininal INvestigation and Detection Group (CIDG) led by Supt. Ferdinand Vero and the military team.
The raid was made last Oct. 12, according to Vero, days after the NPA head Leopoldo Caluza was nabbed in Baguio City by the Nueva Ecija police operatives.
Saturday, October 14, 2006
Military, local execs,economic leaders hold peace rally in RP city
SAN JOSE CITY - Military and local government officials led a huge number of residents in a peace rally at thepublic market site in this norther Nueva Ecija City onSunday.
Lt. Col. Jose Kakilala, commander of the Army's48th Infantry Battalion, said the indignation rallywas the "manifestation of the people's resolve againstterrorism."
Major Gen. Juanito Gomez, commanding general ofthe Fort Ramon Magsaysay, Palayan City-based 7thInfantry Division joined local officials such as ViceGov. Mariano Cristino Joson, Mayor Alex Belena, andofficers of the Nueva Ecija Chamber of Commerce andIndustry, as guest of honor and speaker.
San Jose City was among the key areas of NuevaEcija where the former 7ID commander, now retired Major Gen. Jovito Palparan, waged a stepped upanti-insurgency operation. This here where the conductof checkpoints that ocassionally check residents'cedula or community tax certificates actuallyhappened.
Last week, military and police officers dug outthe body of Kathlyn Ramos, a 19-year-old student fromCentral Luzon State University in nnearby Science Cityof Munoz, allegedly a victim of the communist's NewPeople's Army's purging.
Lt. Col. Jose Kakilala, commander of the Army's48th Infantry Battalion, said the indignation rallywas the "manifestation of the people's resolve againstterrorism."
Major Gen. Juanito Gomez, commanding general ofthe Fort Ramon Magsaysay, Palayan City-based 7thInfantry Division joined local officials such as ViceGov. Mariano Cristino Joson, Mayor Alex Belena, andofficers of the Nueva Ecija Chamber of Commerce andIndustry, as guest of honor and speaker.
San Jose City was among the key areas of NuevaEcija where the former 7ID commander, now retired Major Gen. Jovito Palparan, waged a stepped upanti-insurgency operation. This here where the conductof checkpoints that ocassionally check residents'cedula or community tax certificates actuallyhappened.
Last week, military and police officers dug outthe body of Kathlyn Ramos, a 19-year-old student fromCentral Luzon State University in nnearby Science Cityof Munoz, allegedly a victim of the communist's NewPeople's Army's purging.
Friday, October 13, 2006
Bulacan studes join bar tending fest
BULACAN, Philippines- — Students from at least 10 colleges in Bulacan will compete for the October Flair Festival 2nd Bulacan Bartending Competitions at the KB Gymnasium in Malolos City on Saturday, Oct. 14.
The president of the Bulacan Bartenders League (BBL), Fanny Borja, said that the competition was designed to enhance the skills of students in what she described as "not easy but very exciting" skill of concocting the mix of wine.
“This is our second time after the successful Summer Flair,” she said, saying the activity is a sort of sports. She said that flair and bartending competition is the ultimate sports for people involved in hospitality management course.
At least 39 students will compete in cocting the bst mix of wine in the activity which starts 8:00 a.m.
Among the participating schools are ABE International Business College , Academia de San Lorenzo, Bulacan Polytechnic College , Centro Escolar University-Malolos campus, University of Regina College, Fernandez Colleges , Baliuag University , STI-Baliuag, Dr. Yanga’s Francisco Balagtas Colleges, and Don Martin College.
The Philippine Star correspondent in Bulacan, Dino Balabo was invited as one of the judges in the competitions.
The president of the Bulacan Bartenders League (BBL), Fanny Borja, said that the competition was designed to enhance the skills of students in what she described as "not easy but very exciting" skill of concocting the mix of wine.
“This is our second time after the successful Summer Flair,” she said, saying the activity is a sort of sports. She said that flair and bartending competition is the ultimate sports for people involved in hospitality management course.
At least 39 students will compete in cocting the bst mix of wine in the activity which starts 8:00 a.m.
Among the participating schools are ABE International Business College , Academia de San Lorenzo, Bulacan Polytechnic College , Centro Escolar University-Malolos campus, University of Regina College, Fernandez Colleges , Baliuag University , STI-Baliuag, Dr. Yanga’s Francisco Balagtas Colleges, and Don Martin College.
The Philippine Star correspondent in Bulacan, Dino Balabo was invited as one of the judges in the competitions.
Thursday, October 12, 2006
Ecija politicians ready for '07 polls amid debates on Cha-Cha
NUEVA ECIJA, Philippines -- With the national government officials locked into debates over the proposal to amend the 1987 Constitution which may eventually lead to the deferment of the 2007 synchronized national and local elections, politicians here have themselves readied for the mid-term polls.
Nueva Ecija Gov. Tomas "Tommy" Joson III, in his third and final term, is running for mayor of the industrilized city of Cabanatuan. Eyeing the gubernatorial post is his younger brother, incumbent Vice Gov. Mariano Cristino "Boyet" Joson who would slug it out with incumbent Congressman Aurelio "Oyi" Umali of the third district.
Boyet and Oyi are conducting separate exhaustive medical missions all over the province, utilizing their respective vast resources.
Cabanatuan City mayor Julius Cesar "Jay" Vergara whose term also expires next year is reportedly fielding any of his wife, Mrs. Rea Vergara who is currently in power production and cousin, Alvin Vergara of the Cabanatuan Electric Corp. to be his succesor, against Joson. Joson and the administration of Vergara has clashed over the establishment of garbage facility (material recovery facility) in Macatbong, Cabanatuan City where the governor sided with the opposing residents.
President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo's assistant for North Luzon, Renato "Rene" Diaz is said to be eyeing a comeback to his former post - being congressman for the province's first district.
Former fourth ditrict Congresswoman Julita "Lita" Lorenzo-Villareal is ready to reclaim the post via '07 elections from incumbent Cong. Rody Antonino who is an ally of Macapagal-Arroyo.
The Josons, Vergara and Diaz are all supporters of the Philippine's sitting president. (Armand M. Galang)
Nueva Ecija Gov. Tomas "Tommy" Joson III, in his third and final term, is running for mayor of the industrilized city of Cabanatuan. Eyeing the gubernatorial post is his younger brother, incumbent Vice Gov. Mariano Cristino "Boyet" Joson who would slug it out with incumbent Congressman Aurelio "Oyi" Umali of the third district.
Boyet and Oyi are conducting separate exhaustive medical missions all over the province, utilizing their respective vast resources.
Cabanatuan City mayor Julius Cesar "Jay" Vergara whose term also expires next year is reportedly fielding any of his wife, Mrs. Rea Vergara who is currently in power production and cousin, Alvin Vergara of the Cabanatuan Electric Corp. to be his succesor, against Joson. Joson and the administration of Vergara has clashed over the establishment of garbage facility (material recovery facility) in Macatbong, Cabanatuan City where the governor sided with the opposing residents.
President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo's assistant for North Luzon, Renato "Rene" Diaz is said to be eyeing a comeback to his former post - being congressman for the province's first district.
Former fourth ditrict Congresswoman Julita "Lita" Lorenzo-Villareal is ready to reclaim the post via '07 elections from incumbent Cong. Rody Antonino who is an ally of Macapagal-Arroyo.
The Josons, Vergara and Diaz are all supporters of the Philippine's sitting president. (Armand M. Galang)
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
Top communist leader collared in Nueva Ecija
CABANATUAN CITY - Police arrested a ranking official of the communist movement in the Philippines, particularly Central Luzon on Wednesday, a week after the remains of a student activist was dug out from a shallow grave in San Jose City.
Senior Supt. Alex Paul I. Monteagudo, Nueva Ecija police director, identified the communist rebel as Leopoldo Caluza, 49. He was the secretary general of the NUeva Ecija Committee of the Communist Party of the Philippines and the chief of the New People's Army in Central Luzon (Region 3) in the late 1990s, according to police.
A rebel returnee who led a government team to unearth the remains of 19-year-old Kathleen Ramos in Kaliwanagan, San Jose City last Oct. 5, said it was Caluza who ordered the killing of the student on suspicion she was a military asset, having a soldier relative.
Ramos was a member of the militant League of Filipino Students (LFS) at the state-run Central Luzon State University at the time of her disappearance in Oct. 2002.
Caluza was undergoing tactical interrogation as of press time.
Senior Supt. Alex Paul I. Monteagudo, Nueva Ecija police director, identified the communist rebel as Leopoldo Caluza, 49. He was the secretary general of the NUeva Ecija Committee of the Communist Party of the Philippines and the chief of the New People's Army in Central Luzon (Region 3) in the late 1990s, according to police.
A rebel returnee who led a government team to unearth the remains of 19-year-old Kathleen Ramos in Kaliwanagan, San Jose City last Oct. 5, said it was Caluza who ordered the killing of the student on suspicion she was a military asset, having a soldier relative.
Ramos was a member of the militant League of Filipino Students (LFS) at the state-run Central Luzon State University at the time of her disappearance in Oct. 2002.
Caluza was undergoing tactical interrogation as of press time.
Tuesday, October 10, 2006
Court frees Ecijano newsman
BAGUIO CITY - A former columnist of The Junction weekly newspaper was acquitted by the Regional Trial Court of Baguio City in the P2-million libel suit filed against him by aom Nueva Ecija businesswoman four years ago.
Acquitted in a 17-page decision of Judge Fernando Vil Pamintuan of Branch 3 of the Baguio City Regional Trial Court last OCt. 6 was Antonio Vallejo.
THe court ruled there could be no malice when Vallejo, a resident of San Jose City, Nueva Ecija (Central Luzon) referred to complainant Lovely L. Ladignon as a “fugitive arrested for multiple bouncing checks,” in his report. Ladignon also uses the aliases Lovely de Vera and Lovely Mandapat in her public documents.
The questioned phrase was part of the article written by Vallejo on thee March 16, 2002 issue of the paper, about the complainant from Nueva Ecija who was earlier charged with multiple criminal cases in different Nueva Ecija courts for violation of B.P. 22 and estafa.
The court noted the evidences that the news item was sourced from police and court records and was written based on the arrest made by the members of the Cabanatuan City police and NBI agents. (Armand M. Galang)
Acquitted in a 17-page decision of Judge Fernando Vil Pamintuan of Branch 3 of the Baguio City Regional Trial Court last OCt. 6 was Antonio Vallejo.
THe court ruled there could be no malice when Vallejo, a resident of San Jose City, Nueva Ecija (Central Luzon) referred to complainant Lovely L. Ladignon as a “fugitive arrested for multiple bouncing checks,” in his report. Ladignon also uses the aliases Lovely de Vera and Lovely Mandapat in her public documents.
The questioned phrase was part of the article written by Vallejo on thee March 16, 2002 issue of the paper, about the complainant from Nueva Ecija who was earlier charged with multiple criminal cases in different Nueva Ecija courts for violation of B.P. 22 and estafa.
The court noted the evidences that the news item was sourced from police and court records and was written based on the arrest made by the members of the Cabanatuan City police and NBI agents. (Armand M. Galang)
Sunday, October 08, 2006
3 cattle rustlers killed in Nueva Ecija
CABANATUAN CITY -- Three suspected cattle rustlers were killed in a brief firefight with combined elements of the police's criminal investigation and detection group and special operations group in this city over the weekend, police said on Monday.
Senior Supt. Alex Paul I. Monteagudo, Nueva Ecija police director, identified the fatalities as Julius Castro, Norvin Capulong, and Alfredo Juaquin.
The suspects, Monteagudo said, belonged to the socalled Juaquin group allegedly led by Alfredo which was responsible in a series of cattle rustling cases in Cabanatuan, a primarily agricultural city, and adjoining areas.
Monteagudo said the lawmen were conducting joint operation in response to intelligence information in the city's outskirt village of San Josef when when they encountered the rustlers at about 3:30 a.m. Saturday. (Armand M. Galang)
Senior Supt. Alex Paul I. Monteagudo, Nueva Ecija police director, identified the fatalities as Julius Castro, Norvin Capulong, and Alfredo Juaquin.
The suspects, Monteagudo said, belonged to the socalled Juaquin group allegedly led by Alfredo which was responsible in a series of cattle rustling cases in Cabanatuan, a primarily agricultural city, and adjoining areas.
Monteagudo said the lawmen were conducting joint operation in response to intelligence information in the city's outskirt village of San Josef when when they encountered the rustlers at about 3:30 a.m. Saturday. (Armand M. Galang)
Friday, October 06, 2006
Remains of militant coed found in San Jose CIty, Nueva Ecija mountain
SAN JOSE CITY- Army and police operatives dug out from a shallow a grave in a semi-forested mountain part in this northern Nueva Ecija city the body of Kathlyn Ramos, a 19-year-old coed who mysteriously disappeared in 2004.
Supt. Peter Guibong, city police chief, said the body of Kathlyn, a former member of the militant League ofFilipino Students (LFS) was positively identified by her mother, Tarcila,50.
A military chaplain led the operatives from 48th infantry batallion in offering a prayer on the grave after Ramos's remains were recovered at about 4 p.m. Thursday.
Police said the graveyard, where operatives took 3 hours of walk to reach, was discovered after authorities quizzed a former rebel who said he wsa the one to dig the about 2-inch deep grave.
Ramos was a Bachelor of Science in Animal Husbandry student from the state-run Central Luzon State University. Militant organizations blamed to soldiers several cases of forced disappearances. But military Ramos' case could be another story of purging by the New People's Army of suspected government agents in its rank.
Supt. Peter Guibong, city police chief, said the body of Kathlyn, a former member of the militant League ofFilipino Students (LFS) was positively identified by her mother, Tarcila,50.
A military chaplain led the operatives from 48th infantry batallion in offering a prayer on the grave after Ramos's remains were recovered at about 4 p.m. Thursday.
Police said the graveyard, where operatives took 3 hours of walk to reach, was discovered after authorities quizzed a former rebel who said he wsa the one to dig the about 2-inch deep grave.
Ramos was a Bachelor of Science in Animal Husbandry student from the state-run Central Luzon State University. Militant organizations blamed to soldiers several cases of forced disappearances. But military Ramos' case could be another story of purging by the New People's Army of suspected government agents in its rank.
Tuesday, October 03, 2006
Fil-Chinese arrested for gun running
SCIENCE CITY OF MUÑOZ – A Filipino Chinese resident of this northern NUeva Ecija city was arrested by operatives of the Police Special Operation Group (PSOG) on Oct. 2, for allged gun running.
Police Inspector Rodolfo Espiritu team leader identified the suspect as Danilo Dy Teo, 41, businessman of Bayuga St. Poblacion East Science City of Muñoz.
Espiritu said the arrest was a result of the raid which was done on the strength of a search warrant issued by Judge Dorentino Z. Floresta, of RTC Branch 37 of Gapan City against Teo. Police said the suspect was placed under a month of surveillance before the raid.
Police recovered from the suspect were 4 pistols, including 1 Colt MKIV-S86 with Sn. S605853E, 1 Bersa 386 pistol with SN. 422865, 1 Berretta pistol Cal 22 with SN. 8382966 and 1 Glock 26 pistol with Sn. CVY880, 4 magazines for Colt 38, 16 live ammunition for 380Bersa, 55 live ammunition for Cal. 22, 10 live ammunition for S-382 holster, 1 magazine punch S-38, 5 magazine for Glock 26, 130 rounds of ammunition for Cal. 9mm, and 1 assembly magazine for Berretta.
The suspect was detained at the Police Provincial Headquarter for further investigation as charges of violation of RA 8294 illegal possession of firearms and ammunitions are being prepared against the suspect.
Police Inspector Rodolfo Espiritu team leader identified the suspect as Danilo Dy Teo, 41, businessman of Bayuga St. Poblacion East Science City of Muñoz.
Espiritu said the arrest was a result of the raid which was done on the strength of a search warrant issued by Judge Dorentino Z. Floresta, of RTC Branch 37 of Gapan City against Teo. Police said the suspect was placed under a month of surveillance before the raid.
Police recovered from the suspect were 4 pistols, including 1 Colt MKIV-S86 with Sn. S605853E, 1 Bersa 386 pistol with SN. 422865, 1 Berretta pistol Cal 22 with SN. 8382966 and 1 Glock 26 pistol with Sn. CVY880, 4 magazines for Colt 38, 16 live ammunition for 380Bersa, 55 live ammunition for Cal. 22, 10 live ammunition for S-382 holster, 1 magazine punch S-38, 5 magazine for Glock 26, 130 rounds of ammunition for Cal. 9mm, and 1 assembly magazine for Berretta.
The suspect was detained at the Police Provincial Headquarter for further investigation as charges of violation of RA 8294 illegal possession of firearms and ammunitions are being prepared against the suspect.
Sunday, October 01, 2006
Central LUzon governors scout US investments
PALAYAN CITY - Gov. Tomas N. Joson 3rd, as chair of the Central Luzon Investment Coordinating Council, leads the team with Governors Josefina dela Cruz and Bellaflor Angara-Castillo, of Bulacan and Aurora provinces, respectively along with representatives of Zambales and Pampanga to scout investment in the United States.
The mission started last Sept. 26 will last until Oct. 4, the Manila Times learned.
Joson said in his letter to Trade and Industry Undersecretary Elmer Hernandez that the CLICC would meet with officials of various American companies. The team will specifically scout for investment in information technology.
The team also planned to exchange ideas on how the Philippines and Central Luzon could be promoted to foreign investors.
Joson said the Central Luzon provinces would take part in the 21st Philippine-American Exposition Home Show and Auto Show in Los Angeles, California.
CLICC had been actively promoting Central Luzon through road shows and promotions. The latest mission went to Hong Kong earlier this year, and resulted in a visit to Clark Special Economic Zone in Pampanga of at least 300 Chinese businessmen who also went around the region to look for business opportunities, accding to Joson.
The Nueva Ecija chief executive noted that Central Luzon hosts the Subic Bay Freeport and the Clark and Poro Point investment areas , all former US military facilities that have been converted into business hubs.
The mission started last Sept. 26 will last until Oct. 4, the Manila Times learned.
Joson said in his letter to Trade and Industry Undersecretary Elmer Hernandez that the CLICC would meet with officials of various American companies. The team will specifically scout for investment in information technology.
The team also planned to exchange ideas on how the Philippines and Central Luzon could be promoted to foreign investors.
Joson said the Central Luzon provinces would take part in the 21st Philippine-American Exposition Home Show and Auto Show in Los Angeles, California.
CLICC had been actively promoting Central Luzon through road shows and promotions. The latest mission went to Hong Kong earlier this year, and resulted in a visit to Clark Special Economic Zone in Pampanga of at least 300 Chinese businessmen who also went around the region to look for business opportunities, accding to Joson.
The Nueva Ecija chief executive noted that Central Luzon hosts the Subic Bay Freeport and the Clark and Poro Point investment areas , all former US military facilities that have been converted into business hubs.
Friday, September 29, 2006
Nueva Ecija spared from "Milenyo's" fury
CABANATUAN CITY -- Nueva Ecija, a basically agricultural province more than 100 kilometers north of Manila, was apared from the destruction brought by typhoon Milenyo which left 48 people in the Philippines dead last Sept. 28.
The Department of Public Works and Highways in Nueva Ecija province has not reported any closure of major roads as in the past disasters. The agriculture office also has no damage report of press time.
While the province has been affected by the Luzonwide power outage noontime, the local distributor managed to restore supply at about 6:30 p.m. Business is going normal in the province amid continued darkness in Manila, the Philippine's capital.
Curiously, Catholics in Talavera town even took time opening the new Parish, in the name of San Lorenzo Ruiz, in Barangay Pinagpanaan on Sept. 28, right when rains pour. Rev. Father Nicolas officiated the Holy Mass which was followed by a party at a gymnasium.
The Department of Public Works and Highways in Nueva Ecija province has not reported any closure of major roads as in the past disasters. The agriculture office also has no damage report of press time.
While the province has been affected by the Luzonwide power outage noontime, the local distributor managed to restore supply at about 6:30 p.m. Business is going normal in the province amid continued darkness in Manila, the Philippine's capital.
Curiously, Catholics in Talavera town even took time opening the new Parish, in the name of San Lorenzo Ruiz, in Barangay Pinagpanaan on Sept. 28, right when rains pour. Rev. Father Nicolas officiated the Holy Mass which was followed by a party at a gymnasium.
PhilRice showcases rice tech in AgriLink 2006
The Philippine Rice Research Institute, the leading agency of the Republic of the Philippine in rice research and development, showcases the latest technology in the country's staple production as its participates in AgriLinkl 2006, an international agribusiness and food show on Oct. 5-7 at the World Trade Center, Roxas Blvd., Pasay City.
"Our booth showcases the latest developments in rice research particularly onvarieties and seeds, nutrient management, pest management, rice and rice-basedfood products, machines, and technology promotion. Our displays include the most popular rice varieties in the Philippines, cropmanagement tools, rice and rice-based food products, and books and other references," said Kathleen D. Solis. editor of the PhilRice News Team.
PhilRice is based in Barangay Maligaya, Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija.
Solis added that the agency also provides a video presentation on the applications of biotechnology inrice production. Other video presentations will be on hybrid rice and the use of quality seeds in rice production, she said.
Copies of selected reading materials on rice production will be given away to visitors and guests on the opening day which is Oct. 5.
"Our booth showcases the latest developments in rice research particularly onvarieties and seeds, nutrient management, pest management, rice and rice-basedfood products, machines, and technology promotion. Our displays include the most popular rice varieties in the Philippines, cropmanagement tools, rice and rice-based food products, and books and other references," said Kathleen D. Solis. editor of the PhilRice News Team.
PhilRice is based in Barangay Maligaya, Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija.
Solis added that the agency also provides a video presentation on the applications of biotechnology inrice production. Other video presentations will be on hybrid rice and the use of quality seeds in rice production, she said.
Copies of selected reading materials on rice production will be given away to visitors and guests on the opening day which is Oct. 5.
Union prexy of Methodist-run university suspended
CABANATUAN CITY - The president of the employees union in Wesleyan University-Philippines, a popular uiversity run by the Methodist, in Cabanatuan City was suspended for 30-days startting September 25, 2006 over charges filed by 12 nursing students.
In an open letter, the officers and members of the Wesleyan University-Philippines, Cabanatuan City’s Faculty Staff Association-Lakas at Gabay ng Mangagagawang Nagkakaisa assailed as “politically motivated” and “unjust” the suspension of Mrs. Corazon C. Gonzales, union president.
The suspension was contained in a memorandum issued by Mrs. Erlinda C. Mones, director of Human Resource Development Department, in “view of the administrative charges or serious misconduct” filed by
several nursing students.
Gonzales was barred from entering the university campus, located at Mabini Ext. , Cabanatuan City, in the duration of the suspension except for purposes of submitting her counter-affidavit, appearing and testifying before the investigating committee and to attend the re-negotiations of collective bargaining agreement between the union and the management panels, the order also said.
But lawyer Guillermo Maglaya, WU-P President, said the group that protests Gonzales' suspension does not really represents the employees' union. "This is only a small number," Maglaya said, saying the suspension order was part of the due process. He said the university is actually giving Gonzales the fair play as she was allowed to attend re-negotiation proceedings on their collective bargaining agreement.
PinoyChronicle
In an open letter, the officers and members of the Wesleyan University-Philippines, Cabanatuan City’s Faculty Staff Association-Lakas at Gabay ng Mangagagawang Nagkakaisa assailed as “politically motivated” and “unjust” the suspension of Mrs. Corazon C. Gonzales, union president.
The suspension was contained in a memorandum issued by Mrs. Erlinda C. Mones, director of Human Resource Development Department, in “view of the administrative charges or serious misconduct” filed by
several nursing students.
Gonzales was barred from entering the university campus, located at Mabini Ext. , Cabanatuan City, in the duration of the suspension except for purposes of submitting her counter-affidavit, appearing and testifying before the investigating committee and to attend the re-negotiations of collective bargaining agreement between the union and the management panels, the order also said.
But lawyer Guillermo Maglaya, WU-P President, said the group that protests Gonzales' suspension does not really represents the employees' union. "This is only a small number," Maglaya said, saying the suspension order was part of the due process. He said the university is actually giving Gonzales the fair play as she was allowed to attend re-negotiation proceedings on their collective bargaining agreement.
PinoyChronicle
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
9000 gov't workers fear displacement
CABANATUAN CITY -The employees’ federation of the Department of Agriculture sought on recently a series of “integrative consultations” with the department officials and Department of Budget and Management amid fears of “massive social and financial dislocation and constructive dismissal” of some 9,000 people under a planned rationalization.
Antonio Reyes, president of the National Federation of Employees’ Associations of the DA, said that the integrative consultation with DBM would clarify residual issues and improve the draft of the rationalization plan that will affect at least 28 DA-attached agencies.
The move, he said, will result to in eventual layoffs due to scaling down, phaseout, abolition and mergers, which would require redeployment of employees to other offices.
Reyes said his group, composed of 25,000 employees, has submitted 10 position papers, statements and manifestos on the negative effects of the plan, drafted under Executive Order 366, which he said was drawn up without consultation with stakeholders such as farmers, fisherfolk and rank-and-file employees.
In the National Irrigation Administration alone, some 2,000 employees are threatened by the plan, said Reyes.
Under the 25-page draft EO entitled “Department of Agriculture Rationalization Plan of 2006,” the secretary is given broad powers to undertake rationalization actions such as scaling down, phasing out, abolition, strengthening, deactivation, merger, consolidation and regularization. It also provides that the 28 DA-attached agencies will be restructured and grouped “according to functions to achieve efficiency, eliminate conflict of interests and duplication, and enhance the quality of service.” (Armand M. Galang)
Antonio Reyes, president of the National Federation of Employees’ Associations of the DA, said that the integrative consultation with DBM would clarify residual issues and improve the draft of the rationalization plan that will affect at least 28 DA-attached agencies.
The move, he said, will result to in eventual layoffs due to scaling down, phaseout, abolition and mergers, which would require redeployment of employees to other offices.
Reyes said his group, composed of 25,000 employees, has submitted 10 position papers, statements and manifestos on the negative effects of the plan, drafted under Executive Order 366, which he said was drawn up without consultation with stakeholders such as farmers, fisherfolk and rank-and-file employees.
In the National Irrigation Administration alone, some 2,000 employees are threatened by the plan, said Reyes.
Under the 25-page draft EO entitled “Department of Agriculture Rationalization Plan of 2006,” the secretary is given broad powers to undertake rationalization actions such as scaling down, phasing out, abolition, strengthening, deactivation, merger, consolidation and regularization. It also provides that the 28 DA-attached agencies will be restructured and grouped “according to functions to achieve efficiency, eliminate conflict of interests and duplication, and enhance the quality of service.” (Armand M. Galang)
Friday, September 22, 2006
Rice price stable, says NFA
CABANATUAN CITY -- The government has managed to stabilized the supply and prices of rice in Central Luzon markets, the country’s grains agency reported on Thursday, barely weeks before the end of the so-called gawat, or lean months.
The engineer Nicolas Crisostomo, director of the National Food Authority for Central Luzon, said that the 881,891 bags of P18 a kilo of rice the agency injected to the market at the start of the rainy season has been enough to prevent the prices of commercial rice from soaring to high.
Commercial rice is sold at an average of P23.29 and P21.07 a kilo for well milled and regular milled respectively, according to reports.
Crisostomo said that at the onset of palay-planting season in July, they readied about 1.2 million bags of rice for distribution by the 2,145 accredited retailers and 88 Bigasan Ni Gloria sa Palengke outlets in the region.
He added that besides the stabilizing rice prices, the NFA has issued 7,055 bags of the staple for the relief operations of local governments and disaster agencies in Central Luzon during the onslaught of Typhoons Florita, Glenda and Henry.
The NFA also donated 96,000 pieces of empty bags for sandbagging, a flood mitigating action, during those days, Crisostomo added. The agency’s stock, he said, was boosted by the arrival of 2.68 million bags of imported rice allocation. --Armand Galang (Source: The Manila TImes)
The engineer Nicolas Crisostomo, director of the National Food Authority for Central Luzon, said that the 881,891 bags of P18 a kilo of rice the agency injected to the market at the start of the rainy season has been enough to prevent the prices of commercial rice from soaring to high.
Commercial rice is sold at an average of P23.29 and P21.07 a kilo for well milled and regular milled respectively, according to reports.
Crisostomo said that at the onset of palay-planting season in July, they readied about 1.2 million bags of rice for distribution by the 2,145 accredited retailers and 88 Bigasan Ni Gloria sa Palengke outlets in the region.
He added that besides the stabilizing rice prices, the NFA has issued 7,055 bags of the staple for the relief operations of local governments and disaster agencies in Central Luzon during the onslaught of Typhoons Florita, Glenda and Henry.
The NFA also donated 96,000 pieces of empty bags for sandbagging, a flood mitigating action, during those days, Crisostomo added. The agency’s stock, he said, was boosted by the arrival of 2.68 million bags of imported rice allocation. --Armand Galang (Source: The Manila TImes)
Thursday, September 21, 2006
Dengue kills 10 in Nueva Ecija, Philippines
PALAYAN CITY -- At least 759 persons were infected by the dreaded dengue virus in Nueva Ecija in the northern Philippines as of September 19, 2006, officials said.
But Gov. Tomas Joson III lauded the local health authorities for effecting measures that minimized the effect of the disease which in some areas of the Philippines became an outbreak.
Dr. Benjamin Lopez, chief of the integrated provincial health office, reported that of the 759 victims, ten have died while the rest had to undergo medical treatment in various hospitals.
The last fatality was identified as 3-year-old girl Jocel Ballecera from Barangay (village) Militar, Palayan City who died while undergoing treatment at the Good Samaritan Hospital in nearby Cabanatuan City.
The highest number of cases was recorded in Cabanatuan City with 175; followed by Bongabon,76; Rizal,61; Sta. Rosa, 39; San Antonio,37; Llanera,36; San JOse City,27; Talavera,24; Pantabangan, 22; and Gapan,22.
Lopez said community participation has been vital in controlling the viral infection since cleanliness remains tobe the best defense against dengue mosquitos.
Monday, September 18, 2006
PhilRice: Rice husk-powerplants eyed
Rice millers and chiefs of local government units [LGUs] now look at the prospects of rice husk-fired power plants as a means of solving their problems on the quality of energy delivery and the disposal of an ever increasing volume local goof rice husks generated by rice mills.
This cropped up in the discussions during an investment forum on rice husk-fired power plants at the Manila Hotel recently , which was attended by rice millers, LGU chiefs, government officials, and representatives of commercial banks, electric cooperatives and non-government agencies concerned with solid waste management and utilization.
The forum was the culminating activity of a PhilRice project funded by the EAEF [European Commission – Association of Southeast Nations Energy Facility] Center in Jakarta, Indonesia.
The project surveyed 381 rice mills in the country’s top 20 rice producing provinces and PhilRice researchers used the results in making feasibility studies on the establishment of rice husk-fired power plants in 10 sites.
“You are the people who can make a great difference,” European Commission– Philippines project officer Jose Echanove told the rice millers and other stakeholders.
Congressman Augusto H. Baculio of the 2nd district of Misamis Oriental said that although cogeneration is not being done yet in the Philippines, it should now be adopted as a government policy.
To make it more attractive to stakeholders and investors, he added, the Clean Air Act must be amended, as the rice husk-fired power plants would already profitably use this former waste in producing valuable products - heat and energy.
He added that more incentives should be offered in order to attract more investors and push a wider use of agricultural wastes like rice hull. Among them would be lighter requirements in the issuance of environmental compliance certificates and exemptions from several other requirements.
Mayor Alex Belena of San Jose City, Nueva Ecija, who is also a rice miller, said the establishment of a 9.9 MW [megawatt] rice husk-fired power plant in his city “will help us solve our problems like brownouts and outages.”
In Narra, Palawan, Mayor Lucena Demaala sent word that she has already Committed an area to be the site for a 1.5 MW rice husk-fired power plant. “Clearly, this project has shown that rice husk-fired power plants are technically feasible and commercially viable in the Philippines,” said Christopher Zamora, co-director of the EAEF Center.
Friday, September 15, 2006
Gastroenteritis downs Nueva Ecija residents
TALUGTOG, Nueva Ecija -- Two people, including an old woman, died while at least 23 others were treated as gastroenteritis struck an impoverished village in this outskirt municipality of Nueva Ecija for in the last few days.
The fatalities were identified as DiomedesTabanao and Elena Rigor, 76. Rigor died of dehydratioon Wednesday as the first victim was being laid to final rest.
Reports said that some people from adjoiningareas who attended the wake of Tabanao, also experienced heavy abdominal pain as well as vomiting. One them was Cresencio Sabado,53, son-in-law of Tabanao.
Sabado had to be treated in a Guimba hospital, reports said.
Sabado had to be treated in a Guimba hospital, reports said.
Barangay Captain Dionisio Ortiz admitted that the disease apparently occur in their village of about 80 households every year but it was the first time theyr ecorded deaths. Local health officials said that most residents in the area defend on shallow tube wells for theirdrinking water.
Authorities are conducting a check on the water.
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