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These words which I command you today shall be in your heart. â€"Deuteronomy 6:6

A growing number of people find that wearing a pedometer helps them increase their level of daily exercise. The step-counting device is both a recorder and a motivator for them. Knowing how many steps they take encourages them to walk more.

One woman, whose goal was to take 10,000 steps a day, began parking farther away from her workplace and doing more active tasks around the office. Her awareness of the pedometer helped produce a lifestyle change.

Observable reminders have a place in our walk with Christ as well. When God instructed the Israelites to keep His commands in their hearts, He also told them to make visible reminders of the Word: “You shall bind them as a sign on your hand, and they shall be as frontlets between your eyes. You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates” (Deut. 6:8-9). The purpose was not physical decoration but spiritual deliverance: “Beware, lest you forget the Lord who brought you out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage” (v.12).

Words of Scripture on a plaque, a memory card, or a calendar can turn our focus toward the Lord throughout the day. These visible reminders of Christ and His Word will encourage our steps of obedience to Him. â€"David McCasland

Putting It Into Practice

• Memorize a verse of Scripture as you go to work.
• Write a verse on a card, and tape it where it is visible.
• Meditate on that verse during the day.

Store the Bible in your heart, not on the shelf.

By JUNE S. BLANCO
   
  Basking in the success of the Central Visayas Local Peace and Security Assembly
held at the Bohol Tropics Resort, Gov. Erico Aumentado is pressing the Office of
the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) to include the remaining 24
insurgency-affected barangays here for priority project funding under the
P3-billion Barangay Kalayaan Development Fund.

  Gov. Erico Aumentado is largely responsible for the restoration of the Kalayaan
Fund in the budget by championing this and other advocacies during his incumbency
as president of the League of Provinces of the Philippines (LPP) and the Union of
Local Authorities of the Philippines (ULAP).

  LPP has since elected a new president while his term as ULAP president will end in
March. He seeks amendment of its Constitution and By-Laws though to shorten his
term to October to give way to emerging leaders.

  In his letter to Secretary Jesus Dureza, Aumentado attached the list of
influenced, less influenced, infiltrated and threatened barangays for funding of
their projects.

  To note, Lt. Col. Nestor Porlucas of the 79th Infantry Battalion based in Barangay
Riverside in Bilar has deployed Special Operations Teams (SOTs) to these barangays
so that shoulder to shoulder with the Bohol Poverty Reduction Management Office
(BPRMO) teams, they can identify the projects to be funded by OPAPP.

  “I will submit the project proposals together with the program of works after the
projects shall have been identified by the community and the SOTs themselves under
our people empowerment strategy,” he wrote.

  He also informed the secretary that Bishop Leonardo Medroso of the Diocese of
Tagbilaran has agreed to chair the Local Peace Forum (LPF) vice Bishop Leopoldo
Tumulak who is now the military vicar general based in Camp Emilio Aguinaldo in
Quezon City.

  Porlucas listed Hanopol Norte in Balilihan, San Jose and Sta. Cruz in Batuan, and
Dagohoy in Bilar as influenced barangays.

  Less influenced barangays are Cantaungon in Loon, Buyog Norte in Balilihan, Rizal
and Janlud in Batuan; Campagao, Bugang Norte and Sur and Cabacnitan in Bilar,
Triple Union, Maitum, Mantacieda, Hagbuaya, Ambuan, Liboron, Bongbong and
Cambailan in Catigbian and Magsaysay, Bayawahan, Lico-Lico and Ewon in Sevilla.

  Usually located in town tri-boundaries and thickly forested with rough terrain,
these barangays have been haven to New People’s Army (NPA) rebels at the height of
the underground movement’s activities in the province.

  The LPF is scheduled to meet within the month for the orientation/re-orientation
of the members as Medroso requested. Aumentado asked Dureza to send a
representative to help orient the members on their duties and responsibilities.
   

By JUNE S. BLANCO
   
  Governor Erico Aumentado is strongly pushing the establishment of offices of the
Bureau of Customs (BoC) and the Bureau of Quarantine (BoQ) at the Tagbilaran City
Airport.

  This after travel agencies from South Korea recently indicated interest that they
will field chartered flights direct to Tagbilaran City bringing in tourists from
that country through Pusan, Inchon and Seoul.

  To make the vacation here for these tourists convenient, the representatives of
the travel agencies, in a dialogue with Aumentado requested that an office of the
BoC be set up at the city airport.

  The governor, himself well-traveled, thought up of setting up not just a customs
office but a quarantine office as well. The existing Bureau of Immigration and
Deportation (BID) office in Tagbilaran  City will make the set up a virtual
one-stop shop.

  BoC Commissioner Napoleon Morales who attended the regular meeting of the Panglao
Island Tourism Estate Inter-Agency Task Force (PITE IA-TF) presided over by
Aumentado at the Bohol Beach Club last month committed to put up an office at the
city airport.

  The governor is slated to go to Cebu this week to meet with the Customs collector
there to discuss the nitty-gritty of setting up a BoC office here in time for the
scheduled flights in December. Personnel of the temporary office here are expected
to be taken from the staff of BoC-Cebu.

  In the same breath, Aumentado also asked Dr. Edgardo Sabitsana, Director IV of the
Quarantine Central Office at the South Harbor in Manila to assign a temporary team
of bureau workers at the city airport effective December 2007 when the chartered
flights of Airbus 319 and 320 are expected to fly in.

  He said President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and Tourism Secretary Joseph Ace Durano
are I favor of the chartered flights to increase the tourism business in Bohol.

  The flights to the city airport are expected to continue until such time that the
Panglao Bohol International  Airport is completed and operationalized.

  Aumentado furnished President Arroyo, Transportation and Communications Secretary
Leandro Mendoza, Air Transportation Office chief Nilo Jatico, Morales and BID
Commissioner Marcelino Chicano Libanan with copies of his Sabitsana letter.
   

THERE IS HONOR IN DEFEAT
By Atty. Danilo "Dandan" Bantugan

TO MY FELLOW LEGISLATORS IN BOHOL:

I may have lost the battle in the race for the presidency of the Philippine Councilors League (PCL) Bohol by landing poor third in a three-cornered fight but certainly I did not lose the war in reforming the tarnished image of our aggrupation.

The 44 votes I garnered out of 469 ballots cast was a manifestation enough that not all legislators in Bohol are corruptible in an election marred by massive vote-buying and dirty maneuvering.

However, I graciously accept my defeat, no ifs and buts. After the 200th ballot was counted during the canvassing early dawn last Thursday, I already conceded defeat knowing that my campaign for the PCL presidency was solely based on mere platform and competence.

I congratulate Loay Kagawad Brigido Imboy for being re-elected as our president in the league. With the way he conducted his campaign from the start to the end, he has all the reasons to win. Let me also express my profound admiration to the courage of Garcia-Hernandez Kag. Tita Gallentes for putting up a gallant fight.

From the very start, I was already aware that it would be an uphill battle. But I was still hoping against hope that there are still city and municipal councilors in Bohol who are willing to vote conscientiously. And there were indeed, albeit a minority.

Perhaps, it would not even be difficult for me to pinpoint with utmost accuracy who are those who voted for me.

To City Mayor Dan Neri Lim, words will not suffice to express my gratitude for his being a true believer in good governance, transparency and competence which were the hallmark of my campaign. Ditto goes to his staff for being there when I needed them most.

To my family, friends and prayer brigade, I could not thank you more for standing up side by side with the cause for which I stood for.

Circumstances and the time may not be on my side. I am only consoled with the thought that I fought not a lonely battle. My loss in the PCL elections was an honorable defeat after all.
The road is still long and our journey has just begun…

Written By Jes Tirol
Columnist
The Bohol Chronicle

Proem

When you check-in in a hotel you can ask the front-desk for a “wake up” call so that you can wake up at a specified time.

In recent weeks a series of robberies and hold-ups occurred in Tagbilaran City. It was highlighted by the recent robbery and shoot-out that occurred last Tuesday at the local branch of the Bank of Commerce located at corner CPG and Soledad Sts. One security guard was killed and two others wounded. On the side of the robbers two were wounded and three were captured including the wounded robbers.

Wake Up Call

It could not be denied that Tagbilaran City has now grown. Influx of people from other places has made Tagbilaran City busy. Business establishments are burgeoning. Many banks have opened branches in the City.

The events in recent weeks are a wake up call for Tagbilaran City that it is now time to change our ways of doing things. We need more police visibility, better communications, and better equipment to respond to the needs of the people.

Financial Need

We all know that all the responses that are contemplated needs money to bring it into reality. The question is, where will get the needed finances?

Do you know that the banks in Tagbilaran, which need all the protection from robberies, do not pay taxes in Tagbilaran City except for two smaller banks? They only pay permit fees in Tagbilaran but the taxes from their billions of pesos in transactions are paid at their headquarters in Makati City or Metro Manila.

We have an incongruous situation. The banks do business in Tagbilaran City but pay their taxes in Metro Manila! It is very unfair to the city. When robberies occur, the city will strain its resources to solve the problem without minding that the source of the problem did contribute to its protection.

When Mayor Dan Neri Lim became mayor of Tagbilaran City in 2004, one of his first acts done was to request the different banks in Tagbilaran City to pay their taxes here. The bankers promised to help the city in some other ways.

Maybe the event last Tuesday would serve as a wake up call to the banks in Tagbilaran. They ought to help in the upkeep of peace and order in Tagbilaran because the banks themselves are in the frontline and favorite targets of robbery-holdups.

Maybe the bank managers in Tagbilaran City can argue with top management that they must help to protect the source of business or else the headquarters in Metro Manila will have no income. Other large businesses like the Coca Cola pay their taxes locally. Why could the banks not do the same?

There is a saying in Bisayan that says, “Ang samad sa kumingking pagabation sa tibuok lawas (A would in the little finger is felt by the whole body).” There is a harsher one, “Ang gabà dili magsabà (Karma will not announce itself).”

Tourism Secretary Joseph Ace Durano will lead the guests during the opening ceremonies of the 1st Philippine International Tourism Fair (PITF) at the Cebu International Convention Center in Mandaue City on Sept. 5.

Almost 150 foreign buyers of travel packages â€" tour operators, travel specialists and corporate executives â€" and owners and executives of local resorts, hotels, medical tourism hospitals, golf courses and other tourism-oriented establishments are attending the event. More than 300 corporate buyers are expected to transact business with tour providers and foreign buyers/wholesalers.

Meanwhile, the third and last day of the event on September 7, a Friday, is open for free to the public to enable consumers to see for themselves what possibilities for travel the tourism fair has opened for them.   
While the three-day event is mainly intended for business-to-business interaction or networking between foreign buyers and sellers on one hand and local sellers and buyers on the other hand, the last day was made open to the public to give interested parties a chance to pick out and purchase travel packages from travel organizers with newly formed alliances with their foreign counterparts.

The last day is to be conducted in the same manner that tourism fairs have been done in the past -- consumer-oriented, buyer-to-business model, said Angel Ramos-Bognot, PITF 2007 chair.

The PITF 2007 is the country’s first international travel trade fair. It is being held in conjunction with the Department of Tourism’s Philippine Travel Exchange (Phitex), which will also be held at the newly built CICC.
The PITF 2007 is organized by the National Association of Independent Travel Agencies (NAITAS), the country’s largest travel organization. It is supported by the DOT, Philippine Tourism Authority (PTA), the provincial government of Cebu and the city governments of Mandaue and Cebu.

Among the event’s sponsors are Philippine Airlines, Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp., Seair, Marco Polo Hotel, Montebello Hotel and Ralph’s Wines and Spirits, while its media partners are Manila Bulletin, Business Mirror, Cebu Daily News, Philippine Graphic, Cruising Magazine, The Freeman, Sun Star Cebu and radio stations Y101 and Love Radio.

Most of the sellers will have marketing presentations during the 3-day event. The event will officially open with formal ceremonies in the morning of September 5 with top government officials and local executives as guests. At 11 a.m., buyers will conduct tabletop discussions with sellers. 

A seminar on “Building up a Vibrant and Globally Competitive Tourist Destination” will start at 3 p.m. The speakers include Armand Arreza, administrator of the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority; Bohol Gov. Erico Aumentado; Palawan Gov. Mario Joel Reyes, and Jay Aldeguer, president of the Cebu Visitors and Convention Bureau.

A presentation with cocktails on Boracay entitled “Beach Paradise Boracay” will begin at 4 p.m. 
On the second day, a number of presentations will be made by several service providers. These are the Sarrosa Hotel presentation at 11 a.m., followed by the University of Santo Tomas hospital presentation at 11:45 a.m., then the Bohol Divers Resort presentation at 1:30 p.m. and the Caylabne Bay Resort presentation at 2:15 p.m.

Following the presentations are seminars to be conducted by top-notch personalities. The seminars are on “Philippine medical tourism â€" a global economic activity” with Dr. Alfonso Cenon, CEO of UST Hospital, as speaker;  “Business opportunities in health and wellness tourism” with Alma Rita Jimenez, president and COO of St. Frances Cabrini Medical Center, as speaker, and “Wellness tourism -- Now a must for lifestyle traveler” with Marjorie Lopingco, president of the Spa Association of the Philippines, as speaker. Another destination presentation with cocktails this time featuring “Blazing Bohol” will wrap up the day’s events.

Two seminars will be held on the last day -- “Why do we have to participate in international tourism fairs” and “Philippines’ edge and competitiveness in international tourism fairs” with Patrick Gregorio, chief marketing officer of Microtel Inn & Suites, as speaker. At 4 p.m., the induction of the League of Tourism Students of the Philippines-Visayas chapter will be held before the closing ceremonies at 6 p.m.

For more information, contact the event organizer, Philippine Exhibits and Themeparks Corporation, at tel. nos. 832-5422 and 832-9303 or email pitmcebu@gmail.com or visit the event’s website at www.philitf.com.

--Press Release

By LEAH TIROL-MAGNO

The University of Bohol (UB) College of Nursing dean, Isabelita G. Margate released this week the names of the 104 new nurses who passed the June 10-11, 2007 nursing licensure examination.

Margate also bared that the passing average of the UB college of nursing for the first takers is 65% 101 passers out of 155 takers. However, the overall UB passing average, which includes all UB board exam takers, including the re-takers, is 51%. The national passing average is only 48%.

The new nurses produced by the UB are as follows: Dulce Amor P. Amora, Geoffrey G. Ang, Lorraine L. Ang, Ma. Romellezza G. Anub, Risa Marie I. Arcaya, Karen Floramae T. Azcona,  Hannah Celeste D. Balatero, Noemi L. Bantol, Elvy A. Basilad, Lupita C. Bayocboc, Jeaniece M. Bitancor, Gerby O. Blantucas, Cyrene M. Boloron, Kim Caesar B. Bonite, Cecilia A. Boyles, Fritz Michael S. Boyles, Eduard Rey B. Bucag, Shera Romelyn O. Burato, Silver Airel V. Busalanan, Nelbien J. Cabrera, June Faith O. Cagadas, Rocky M. Camaligan, Catherine M. Cepedoza, Hazel G. Cornell, Michelle Jane L. Cuizon, Marvelyn M. Culajara,
Ian Mark L. Dador, Christine R. Dagupan, Jean Marie M. Englatera, Althea Jane T. Escabarte, Jemima Grace S. Escarda, Roset Ann R. Fabio, Lady Carmel B. Faburada, Jane Neszel G. Fortugaliza, Leocadio L. Galang II, Devorah Mae H. Galaroza, Christine C. Galido, Oikoumene D. Gasco, Apriele Rose C. Gaudicos, Mae Grace A. Gonzaga, Beryl Elizabeth L. Guday, Kathy Claire Marie D. Gumera, Liz Soleil D. Hilot, Dominador V. Huiso III, Xerxes Gift J. Iyog, Joseph Valerie C. Lapez, Earl Jayson C. Lomaad, Elizabeth Jake C. Lorejo, Jaypee L. Lumaya, Shannon M. Luminarias, Geraldine Mae S. Madanguit, Mark Lester M. Mahilum, Rodrigo G. Manalo, Lloyd Irving I. Millanar, Teofilo A. Millare, Mavin A. Miso, Raulph Anthony S. Molina, Lois Joan S . Namocatcat, Norma Q. Odtohan, Buena F. Orehuela, Wewen D. Osmil, Edna I. Pacapac, Sylvia M. Padaboc, Michelle Anne G. Palacio, Bernadith N. Pamaong, Iris M. Patayon, Karen P. Peligrino, Jangie O. Penales, Leizl P. Penales, Dionariza G. Pineda, Mariane Joy R. Pizarras, Cristino Jason S. Racho, Merasol H. Rafols, Amalin C. Ramada, Anna Kristel M. Recamadas, Ledisa C. Reloba, Richard A. Reyes, Mary Melody C. Roldan, Narissa D. Rosalejos, Deeryl D. Rosolada, Cristine Pearl A. Rubio, Ediliza P. Sajulga, Ann Marie Krish S. Salamanca, Mary Cres T. Salinas, Roger C. Sanchez, Nemfa G. Sarte, Mary Cris N. Simacon, Mark Nicholz C. Simporios, Neil Efren A. Sy, Arman A. Taan, Lenin B. Tabel, Sharmaine B. Tagra, Delia Mae R. Tampos, Joan Marie B. Tatad, Eustanito O. Timogan, Jr., Glenn P. Torrefranca, Lemwel A. Torregosa, Jun Rexy P. Tutor, Sheila Jean B. Ugdoracion, Donald C. Valmoria,  and Melinda D. Villaverde.

The following are the successful re-takers as per C.A. decision: Marnette E. Antonio, Bichri C. Leopando and Nazamel B. Froilan.

The names of the successful examinees of the DOLE initiated voluntary retake for tests 3 & 5 on June 10-11, 2007, were also released by dean Margate. They are: Rey M. Agot, Jeral I. Ahit, Mencina P. Anuta, Leizther C. Arisola, Vanessa D. Asis, Joi Marie J. Ayco, Amalia S. Añana , Abril I. Balanay, Tristan Francis I. Balanay, Mary Andre M. Balani, Van Phillip P. Baton, Imy Carines B. Bernaldez, Joybell R. Cajegas, Jean R. Castillon, Roxannie A. Castro, Filomena G. Cepedoza, Keith R. Cuarteros, Candice Isobelle I. Fudalan, Margarette M. Gucor, Michelle M. Gudilos, Verna S. Husain, Ma. Theresa Joson, Jude Abigail C. Lamdagan, Prayer N. Leopando, Daisy O. Lim, Edeiza V. Linuag, Locelyn Lumba, Margea D. Malicse, Mark Lloyd G. Margate, Giovanni J. Miculob, Feljane B. Millan, Edjem O. Nuez, Eleanor Grace G. Pabelico, Charity T. Paguia, Mary Aileen  B. Plateros, Marie Hazel L. Recamadas, and Jan Jan Ian H. Suarez.
The oath taking for the new nurses is yet to be scheduled. More information and details about this can be channeled through the office of the dean of the UB college of nursing, with telephone number (038) 4113484, local 811.

By ANZING ZOILO POQUITA

Retired mentors of DepEd, Tagbilaran City District are not left behind if we speak of social and spiritual activities, they constantly find time to devote a few hours of their treasured days, to meet and share with each other, the latest happenings and wholesome ideas about anything under the sun.

Organized five years ago by the retired teachers of Tagbilaran City Central School, the club meets every month, to celebrate birthdays or members jointly, within the month. This year the membership reaches out to retirees of other schools in the city district.

In January 2007, Vic Torralba and Lita Dumalag treated their peers to a dinner at JJ’s Dimsum, the late Vita Pilongo celebrated her last natal day in February at her residence, Leonor dela Torre and Citas Ingles held theirs at Chicken Ati-Atihan last March, while April celebrators, PRecy Somosot and Indai Rara invited the group, to a sumptuous lunch at Somosot’s residence.

Club Pres. Lita Palileo, Doris Tadena, and Nene Ocarol held a birthday bash at Saya’s Restaurant last May, on the same month the mentors tendered a Despedida Party to Vic and Leonor Torralba, who left for USA for a long overdue and much needed relaxation in the land of milk and honey, where their two daughters work and earn green bucks.

On Saturday, Aug. 25, 2006 the group trooped to Our Lady of Lourdes Parish Church to attend on evening mass, during which an offering for the eternal repose of the souls of departed members, Manuel Palileo, Emiliana Estillore, Jovita Pilongo, and Ricarda Torralba was made. The group proceeded to Palileo’s residence for a dinner, courtesy of August celebrators Leonor Torralba, Luis Cabilla, and the late Manuel Palileo.

The affair was graced by balikbayans Fred Malaran and the ever-generous Yolie Bustrillos, who flew in from USA to attend a class reunion. As usual, Yolie shared some give-aways in cash and in kind to the mentors who endear her unequalled generosity.

New club members include Emma Fabio, Alie Karaan, Chita Jao, Babie Lim, and Diana Ampong while US-based members are Laling Honculada, Bening Karaan, Nanie Estrera, Rufa Bantugan, Naty T. Johnson and Yolie Bustrillos.

September birthday celebrators agree to hold their joint treat at BAK-STIQ Grill and Restaurant. Who says, the retired teachers of Tagbilaran City District are confined in their shells? You are wrong because they’re always on the go. For more updates about the Golden Seniors Club as the days roll by, the Bohol Chronicle is yours to peruse.

--press release

By BJ ALBA

Holy Name University (HNU) and Globe Telecom launched last Tuesday an advance-information innovation that offers a special tariff structure making it easy and affordable for students to communicate with each other.

Introduced during the launching was the My HNU Prepaid Sim, a special Sim wherein subscribers enjoy exclusive rates when sending text messages or make calls to other My HNU Prepaid SIM users. 

According to Tania Padilla, the Region Head of Business Centers Visayas for Globe Telecom, the Sim is initially offered to HNU and the very first to be launched in the province. She said Globe Telecom was impressed that HNU has such an advance information infrastructure and that the company would like to be considered as a partner to provide the tools for communication solutions making life easy through My HNU Prepaid Sim.

Another representative from the company, Rina Sha, the Segment Business Head for Strategic Communities-Affinity spoke on Globe Telecom’s innovation which instigated a cultural revolution, wherein, today is a part of peoples’ daily activities.

Ms. Sha said that short messaging system or SMS for academic activities is now offered to institutions in its goal to provide services that deliver ease and relevance to specific user group. With the My HNU Prepaid Sim exclusive intra-community rates and school related mobile services, Globe Telecom through its representative congratulated HNU for its commitment to enhance the quality of the student campus life with the integration of mobile technologies into their education system. In partnership with Globe Telecom, Holy Name University commemorated another landmark event in HNU history.

The launching was held at the Academic Conference Room of the HNU Lesage Campus with the University family heads, Vice President for the Academic Affairs-Fr. Romeo Bancale, SVD, Vice President for Administration, Fr. Felino B. Javines, Jr., SVD, the deans and heads of offices and the Central Student Government leaders with the newly elected President David Maulas.

The main event of the affair was the ceremonial MOA signing which took place before an open forum, after which, was a merienda buffet through the courtesy of Vicky Wallace of the Bee Farm.(The Bohol Chronicle)

By ARIEL E. FULLIDO

It’s a 3-day sale at the Island City Mall on September 14, 15 and 16, where up to 50% discounts will be given away on great selections at the Home & Fashion Department, including the tenant shops. 

On September 15, Saturday, the mall is open until 12 midnight, featuring a concert at the Activity Center at 8 PM with Amber, the Fil-Am pop sensation who is behind the phenomenal dance hit, “Kembot,” and this year’s Best New Female Recording Artist in the recent 20th Awit Awards. 
     
The child of an American father and a Filipina mother from Malolos, Bulacan, Amber Alejo Rowley was born in the US, relocated to the Philippines with her family at age five, then moved back to the US again for high school.

To pursue a singing career, Amber settled in LA and started as background vocals for  Hillary Duff. In 2004, she signed up with NBA’s Dale Davis’ W.A.R. Entertainment as one of the artists and had two singles included in the original soundtrack of the movie "Player’s Ball." Then, she found herself headed to Japan as the lead vocalist of a popular rock and hip-hop stage show "Enwhy" at the Universal Studios. After making waves in Japan, she decided to make a detour in Manila for a singing career. 

Like other international recording artists with Filipino bloodâ€"Apl.de.Ap of the Black Eyed Peas, Nicole Scherzinger of the Pussycat Dolls, and Mutya Buena, formerly of the Sugarbabesâ€"Amber is proud of her Filipino heritage. Her 12-track "Feel Good Music" album is a tribute to her Pilipino roots.

Aside from the carrier single “Manila”â€"which is already number one on various radio countdownsâ€"the album also contains songs like “In This Place,” a fun, upbeat love song; “Jungle,” a reference to the fact that when most foreigners think of the Philippines, they think 'jungle', “So Beautiful,” a mid-tempo love song with an alternative pop vibe; “Ikaw Ang Buhay Ko,” originally written in English and translated by Edith Gallardo, “See You Soon,” an English love ballad; “Feel Good Music,” a song about people going through trials and finding an escape through their favorite song; “He's Not You,” a soulful R & B ballad about finding the perfect guy; “All For Nothing,” an intense, uptempo track about feeling under-appreciated in a relationship; “I Need,” a fun, pop-up uptempo song about seeing someone you like for the first time; “We Need Love,” an inspirational song which says that as long as we put love first, there's nothing we can't overcome; and “Daddy,” a song about forgiveness and appreciation for the number-one man in our lives.

But her biggest break came in the ASAP Ultimate Dance 4 (UD4) when she composed and performed the dance hit, “Kembot,” through the collaboration with American producer Marcus Davis.

Amber is now busy recording her full-length album in between television appearances and live performance. With her smoldering, sexy looks which resemble like pop stars Mandy Moore and Gwen Stefani, no wonder she could be another icon in Philippine movies.   
 
Amber used to be a part of the once popular TV show "PenPen de Sarapen" when she was seven years old. Her sister, Misty Blue, was a member of Kuya Germs’ "That’s Entertainment" family while her two brothers were part of the Universal Black and White Dance group.

Absolutely believe this article. I have read several articles extolling the benefits of sunlight.

Reply of Malu Fernandez:

Although it may sound elitist to you the fact is this country is built on the foundation of haves, have-nots and wannabes. One group will never get the culture of the other. Although I could mention that it is easier to understand someone who has a lower socioeconomic background that would entail a whole other page and frankly I don’t want to be someone to bridge the gap between socioeconomic classes. I leave that to the politicians in my family who believe they can actually help. Now I seriously ask you, am I being a diva or are people around me just lacking in common sense? Perhaps it’s a little of both!

Reply of Malu Fernandez

As I type this, I’d like you to know that it’s not about whining, complaining and bitching but just stating the facts. Just recently, I wrote a funny article in my magazine column and my friends thought it was hilarious. It was humorous and quite tongue-in-cheek, or at least I thought so, until the magazine got a few e-mails from people who didn’t get the meaning of my acerbic wit. The bottom line was just that I had offended the reader’s socioeconomic background. If any of these people actually read anything thicker then a magazine they would find it very funny. Most people don’t get the fact that they need bitches like me to shake up their world, otherwise their lives would be boring and mediocre. I obviously write for the a certain target audience and if what I write offends you, just stop reading.

My friends,

We have this deep, passionate concern for an evil-free society. We have witnessed several shocking events in our province and in our city.

Tubag Bohol encourages free debate, freedom of speech. You can laugh, get mad, and cry here.

However, if discussing a topic may jeopardize the solution of a crime or if posting and replying to a topic may compromise the security of certain individuals, I suggest you use Personal Message (PM) in our site. If it is best to talk over a sensitive information outside the website, send a private message to one of our members.

Thank you - Mike

Quote from: PrincessSaDagat on September 01, 2007, 02:22:32 PM
Tagbilaran Airport .. updates by passing through several times during my travel in Bohol.

As of July 2007, there are no indication of ongoing construction, certainly there are no sign of "spruce up the airport's facilities with a baggage carousel at the arrival area" as said by Edgar Solis, Manager of Tagbilaran Airport.   

The only sign of any possible construction is a pile of dirt in front of the airport, near the entrance.

Footnote: Planning Stage pa siguro ni. 

Princess,

I think this project is still on its planning stage.

Hulat hulat sa lang ta ani.

Quote from: Wyble on September 01, 2007, 09:20:32 AM
naglagot na si Bojol... 

No. Wala oi. That reaction is from Friendster friend.

Brigido "Boy" Imboy of Loay, Bohol was reelected president of the Philippine Councilors League-Bohol Chapter. Imboy will sit as an ex-officio member of the Sangguniang Province.

TOP 20 SCHOOLS IN THE PHILIPPINES

This statistics is a result of the
study conducted by the Professional
Regulations Commission(PRC) and the
Commission on Higher Education (CHED),
based on the average passing in the
BOARD EXAMINATIONS OF ALL COURSES of
all universities and colleges in the
Philippines. This study is concluded
every 10 years.

Eleven schools come from Luzon, two
from the Visayas and seven from
Mindanao.

1. University of the Philippines
(Diliman Campus /Luzon)

2. University of the Philippines (Los
Banos Campus/ Luzon)

3. University of the Philippines
(ManilaCampus /Luzon)

4. Silliman University (Dumaguete
City / Visayas)

5. Ateneo deDavao University (Davao /
Mindanao)

6. Ateneo de Manila University
(Manila /Luzon)

7. University of Sto. Tomas (Manila /
Luzon)

8. Mindanao State University(Iligan
Institute ofTech/ Mindanao)

9. Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila
(Manila/Luzon)

10. Saint Louis University (Baguio
City / Luzon)

11. University of San Carlos (Cebu
City / Visayas)

12. Xavier University (Cagayande Oro /
Mindanao)

13. Mindanao State University (Main /
Mindanao)

14. Urios College (Butuan City /
Mindanao)

15. Polytechnic University of
the Philippines(Manila/ Luzon)

16. De La Salle University (Manila /
Luzon)

17. Mapua Institute of Technology
(Manila / Luzon)

18. Adamson University (Manila /Luzon)

19. Central Mindanao University (Bukidnon/Mindanao)

20. University of Southern Philippines
(Davao /Mindanao)

Reaction from my Friendster Network:

I was so upset coz a writer like her is not a good example. We as an OFW can buy very expensive perfumes or anything as we want; but we think of our family in the Phil by helping them, the reason why nag antus sa baratuhon nga cologne. I call this girl MALU GREECE!... why? here in Norway PIGS (baboy) they call it GREECE, so no wonder they have the same figure, attitudes & thinking. Ang maayo aning bayhana ilabog sa tangkal tan-awon ta kung mo effect pa na iyang mahalon nga perfume.

What do teenagers mean when they say they’re “chillaxin”? (They’re chilling and relaxing.) What if they ask for some “cheddar”? (That’s cash.) If a teen likes someone’s new clothes, he might just say, “money,” meaning cool. Teenagers have their own lingo that some of us might not understand, and it seems to be always changing.

Believers in Jesus have their own lingo as well. We use common jargon that nonbelievers may not comprehend. For instance, we use the words grace, saved, and repentance. These are all good words, but as we’re sharing our faith, it might be more helpful to say, “God’s gift of unearned forgiveness” instead of grace. Or “rescued from death and given eternal life” for saved. We could say, “to turn away from wrongs” for repentance.

The apostle Paul was willing to be flexible in his ministry in order to reach as many as possible with the gospel of Christ (1 Cor. 9:19-23). That might have even included the words he used as he explained the good news of Jesus’ death and resurrection.

Explaining our faith in easy-to-understand terms may help someone to grasp the meaning of being born againâ€"transformed by Jesus’ love and forgiveness. â€"Anne Cetas

You have called us, Lord, to witnessâ€"
To tell others of Your Son;
Spirit, give us words so simple
That they’ll reach some seeking one. â€"D. De Haan

If we have God’s Word in our mind, He can put the right words in our mouth.

source: www.rbc.org

On the other hand, drug addiction and addictive drugs already have old Bisayan terms. The 1885 Espanyol-Bisaya dictionary of Fr. Juan Felix de la Encarnacion have the following entry:

Buligot is the old Bisayan for addictive drugs and bulingot is the old Bisayan term for drug addict.

It means that indulging in addictive drugs or plants like katyubong (hemlock) was already a problem since long time ago. (Note: Hemlock was the poison used to execute the Greek philosopher Socrates.)

Now, Bohol has the problem of drug addiction and prostitution. Drug addiction can be marginalized or totally eradicated because of the clear-cut role of the supplier and the user. However, prostitution will be difficult because it is a double-pull situation, both sides are the supplier and the user.

--Excerpt from Engr. Jes Tirol's column published in the Bohol Chronicle

An excerpt from Engr. Jes Tirol's column in the Bohol Chronicle:

My Neighbor column, Obiter Dictum (Remark in passing; comment) says that prostitution is the oldest profession. Be that as it may, yet it is strange that I have not found an old Bisayan word for prostitute.

The word p**t is a Spanish word. It means therefore, that prostitution was a profession, industry, or trade that was not prevalent in Bohol in olden days. No word was coined to refer to it.

In fact Capt. C.L. Furbush, the medical officer of the invading Americans in 1900, said that no venereal disease existed in Bohol. It is a euphemism that there were no prostitutes in Bohol when the Americans landed in Bohol on March 17, 1900.

From Engineer Jes Tirol
Columnist
The Bohol Chronicle

In the year 2000, the University of Bohol Research Center was commissioned to do a base-line survey for the youth of Bohol. A question was asked, "Did it ever happen that because of extreme necessity you were forced to sell your honor just to earn money?" Among the 19,200 Boholano youth surveyed, 9.32% answered "YES."

Another question was asked, Are there businesses of ill-repute (Example: Prostitution house) here in your place?" (No=90.79%, Maybe = 5.36%, yes = 9.06%).

The highest response at 30.19% was not from Panglao, Bohol but from an interior town of Bohol. We do not know whether the situation has changed that is why we plan to do another survey this year.

The result of the survey was unexpected so this writer made some verifications. It was found out that the business alluded was like a Japanese Geisha School. Young girls were trained how to entertain guest or customers by conversation, dancing, singing, etc. The graduates were for Å"export, but they have to practice with local customers. (Note: The informant as an agent and part owner. He was talking freely to this writer not knowing that I already had the data.) Practicing with local customers made the youth cognizant of the existence of the business but officially the town officials did not know.

In terms of drug addiction, our Year 2000 survey revealed that 20% of the youth in Bohol were indulging in illegal drugs. The town of Candijay, Bohol was very unusual. The youth respondents said 67% but the adults said zero (0%).

With the intensive drive against drug addiction, we plan to verify the result of the campaign. We hope somebody will fund the research so we can survey extensively like the 19,200 youth and 7,600 adult samples as done in year 2000.

By Jes Tirol
Columnist
The Bohol Chronicle

Proem

The Province of Bohol is bruited as an agricultural province. Huge irrigation projects are constructed in Bohol to boost agricultural production. In other words, Bohol is self-sufficient in food products. Food is supposed to be available almost everywhere, be it in the farm or from the sea.

Plant-and-Forget

Today, there are two plants in Bohol that is "plant-and-forget then comeback-and-get." These are the coconut and the banana. You only plant it once and you can forget them and return only to harvest the fruits.

Rice was supposed to be a plant-and-forget affair. There is an old Bisayan word for it, ulilang. It means you plant dry-land rice, harvest it by cutting the stalks and new stalks will sprout again and you haverst again the new fruits. But it was forgotten long ago due to the popularity of the basak (rice paddies) type of rice production.

Historical Perspective

Throughout history, a community that is self-sufficient in food is always known to be progressive. After becoming self-sufficient in food the community tends to become self-sufficient in almost every other need.

The question is -- why is Bohol viewed as a poor province?

Agricultural Economics

When food is available, the other members of society not needed for food production becomes free to engage in producing other needed things. This situation was true during the Second World War. The Boholanos produced everything they needed, from food, clothing, soap, medicine, etc.

Again the question, why are we no longer producing by ourselves the other necessities in life?

Advent of Consumerism

Advanced countries, mainly the United States, developed the concept of consumerism. This concept changed the attitude of man from desiring only what they need, to desiring what they want. In fact it will change a desire to a need. Non-essentials like softdrinks are now thought of as a need.

When Coca Cola was first introduced in Bohol by the Americans, all street comers were supplied with coolers with Coca Cola. It was free and you can drink as much as you want. When the Boholanos learned to love the taste of Coca Cola, it was sold at a very low price in stores but free Coca Cola was still available at the town plaza. When people were transformed from "desiring" Coca Cola to "needing" Coca Cola, the item was then sold at the proper price to recoup the advertisement cost. Now you could not imagine a fiesta celebration without a softdrink.

Boholanos' Reaction

When the new need was developed the Boholanos' reaction was not to compete. Instead they turn to their farmlands to produce the cash needed to buy the softdrink. The old agricultural economics was altered to fit to the consumerism concept.

Why did we not make our biyabas (guava), bugnay, and alangitngit into a softdrink to compete with Coca Cola? Do you know that alangitngit, an innocent looking vine that turns into a large tree can be made into a nutritious softdrink? I just hope Engr. Marcial Lim will make his formula into commercial production.

No More Agricultural Economics

Nowadays we only have an agricultural economy but no longer an agricultural economics. Agricultural economy means that our agricultural products are the source of money to satisfy our consumer wants. Agricultural economics means that our agricultural products are our source of stability to free us to compete in other products. In agricultural economics it is you who will transform your agricultural raw materials into another kind of product.

We no longer have the cotton plants that Boholanos made into lumpot cloths that was much desired by the Chinese during pre-Spanish times.

The Fatal Flaw

Western civilization is steeped in the Darwinian Theory and Malthusian theory of competition in order to succeed. Orientals, including the Filipinos, are following the Kesler Theory of Mutual Aid and Cooperation in order to succeed.

The Darwinian Theory is taught in western schools and in our schools, but the Kesler Theory is not taught in our schools. So we are at a disadvantage, we do not know what we are!   

Russian police have detained a 45-year-old municipal worker for stealing a bridge.

The 5-metre span metal bridge disappeared from a river crossing in the Ryazan region, east of Moscow. Police said they tracked it down to the man, who had used his work truck to remove it and then chopped it up and sold it for scrap.

In a statement, Ryazan region police called it "the bulkiest theft of the year".

source: news.yahoo.com

A Chinese wife has cut off her husband's right hand because of his internet addiction.

Jiang Ming of Chengdu city promised his wife, He Ling, that he would not go on the internet anymore, and would instead spend more time at home to take care of their newborn son.

But after a short time he started to sneak into nearby internet cafes again to have video chats with girls.

"I was on the internet, and suddenly felt a numbness in my right hand. The arrow on the screen stopped moving," says Jiang Ming.

"Then I found that my right hand was on the mouse pad, and blood was shooting out."

source: orange.co.uk

(AFP) - Russia plans to send a manned mission to the Moon by 2025 and wants to build a permanent base there shortly after, the head of Russian space agency Roskosmos said Friday.

"According to our estimates we will be ready for a manned flight to the Moon in 2025," Anatoly Perminov told reporters. An "inhabited station" could be built there between 2027 and 2032, he said.

The only moon landing in history is NASA's Apollo expedition in 1968.

Laying out Roskmosmos' plans for the next three decades, Perminov said that Russia's space programme receives less than 10 percent the funding the US programme receives, yet retains great ambitions.

Russia intends to complete construction of its section of the International Space Station by 2015 so that the ISS "becomes a fully-fledged space research centre," he said.

source: news.yahoo.com

German government plans to spy on terror suspects by deploying malicious e-mails have drawn sharp criticism.

The e-mails would contain Trojans - software that secretly installs itself on suspects' computers, allowing agents to search the hard drives.

German Interior Minister Wolfgang Schaeuble is quoted as saying the spyware would be used only in a few cases and for a limited time.

The measure would form part of a new anti-terrorism bill.

source: news.bbc.co.uk

By CHRISTINA I. HERMOSO
The Manila Bulletin

With an estimated population of 88.7 million, the Philippines is now the 12th most populous nation in the world, a report by the United Nations Population Fund (UNDP) said yesterday.

China, comprising 20 percent of the estimated 6.6 billion world population (as of July, 2007), topped the list with an estimated population of 1.319 billion, followed by India with about 1.122 billion people or 16 percent of the world population.

The UN agency said Asia accounts for more than 60 percent of the world’s population with almost 3.8 billion people, while Africa accounts for 12 percent with 840 million people.

Europe comprises 11 percent with 710 million people, North America, 8 percent with 514 million people, and South America, 5.3 percent, with a population of 371 million.

The 15 most populous nations in the world are: 1. China, 2. India, 3. United States (300 million), 4. Indonesia (225 million), 5. Brazil (186 million), 6. Pakistan (165 million), 7. Bangladesh (147 million), 8. Russia (143 million), 9. Nigeria (135 million), 10. Japan (128 million), 11. Mexico (108 million), 12. Philippines, 13. Vietnam (84 million), 14. Germany (82 million), and 15. Egypt (75 million).

In 2000, the UN estimated the population growth rate at 1.14 percent or about 75 million people a year. By 2050, the world population is expected to reach 9.4 billion.

Despite the loss of thousands of domestic helper jobs abroad for Filipinos in the first semester, the Department of Labor and Employment said on Thursday its new restrictions on the deployment brought more benefits.

Labor Secretary Arturo Brion said the decrease in the number of household workers abroad should be viewed positively as the policy reform was generating good results despite the decline in deployment.According to him, more Filipino workers are now eyeing jobs that offer higher pay and more friendly working environment.

Brion reported an increase in the number of new hires deployed to some countries such as Canada, Cyprus, Italy, New Caledonia and New Zealand, from January to July 2007.The rise in number was attributed to the increasing demand for skilled workers in the labor-short industries of these developed economies and continuing demand for caregivers and household workers by the countries that could provide better terms and conditions of employment

The increase in the deployment of skilled workers and professionals made up for the decrease in the deployment of household workers, particularly in the Middle East, Brion said.

According to POEA chief Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz, the percentage share of professional and technical workers group went up by two percentage points from 12.4 percent in first half of 2006 to 14.4 percent for the same period in 2007.This group of high end skills consisting of professional, technical and highly skilled workers accounted for 73 percent of the total new hires, while low-end skills only constituted 27 percent, she added.

source: The Philippine Daily Inquirer

Filipinos in Japan are alleged to be exploited while their employers are committing several violations of the established contracts both parties entered into before one departs to the “land of the rising sun," according to an overseas Filipino worker from one of the towns in Negros Oriental.

The OFW, who refused to be named for fear of reprisal from her local recruiter, recently arrived from Japan. She works as an entertainer in Japan on a six-month contract and renewable for another six months.

She said her local recruiter, who also lives in the same town, offers her a hefty US$16,000 every month supposedly to work in one of the restaurants in Japan.

She had then processed her papers and left for Japan in January 2005 but when she arrived there, she was surprised since instead of working in a restaurant, she ended up working as an entertainer in one of the nightclubs in Japan.

“ (Wala na kay mahimo pag-abot nimo didto kay giembargo na man ang imong mga papeles ug ubang mga kagamitanyou can’t do anything because all our documents are already confiscated by them)," the Negrense OFW revealed.


She lamented that they were made to work more than eight hours and that even if they feel ill, they were forced to do dancing and gyrating with customers at the nightclub.

source: Sun Star Daily

footnote: victim: Filipino culprit: Filipino recruiter
I have said many thing about this cancer in my previous posts.

By Paolo Carreon

When I was two years old my father left for Saudi Arabia to work as a nurse. Hence, I grew up without a single memory of my father playing with me as a kid. Then I turned five, it was even harder when my mother also had to leave for the U.S. also to work as a nurse for me to be enrolled in a reputable private school in Iloilo City.

At a young age, I was immersed with the idea that in order to live comfortably in this country, one had to seek its way out for a greener pasture.

Back then, I couldn't understand why this is happening. I am now 25 and faced with my own dilemma. "I must be gone to live, or stay here and die". Shakespeare's words reflect the disposition of most Filipino professionals today.

The growing exodus of Filipinos to other countries could be attributed to the following reasons: to leave and escape poverty, a corrupt government or simply to find better work. It is frustrating that this country couldn't provide the opportunity every Filipino deserves.

Nevertheless, it seems that the government doesn't care. This despite the fact that the Filipino overseas remittances reached over 7 billion dollars annually, which amounts to the country's 32 percent GNP. Filipino overseas workers are responsible for helping the economy survive. The brain drain issue is no longer new to the ears of the public; it is a story of economic struggle.

The Philippines is recognized as the largest exporter of manpower to the world. Our country surpassed Mexico as the primary source of migrant workers. Over 8 million Filipinos work overseas to support family back home. This is an alarming one tenth of our population.

source: thenewstoday.info

excerpt from the speech of Patricia Evangelista

    “Leaving sometimes isn’t a matter of choice. It’s coming back that is. The Hobbits of the shire traveled all over Middle-Earth, but they chose to come home, richer in every sense of the word. We call people like these balikbayans or the ‘returnees’ â€" those who followed their dream, yet choose to return and share their mature talents and good fortune.
     
    “…I may take advantage of whatever opportunities come my way. But I will come home. A borderless world doesn’t preclude the idea of a home. I’m a Filipino, and I’ll always be one. It isn’t about just geography; it isn’t about boundaries. It’s about giving back to the country that shaped me.”

Filipino care workers and their employers will fight the Home Office over work permit refusals which threaten to deport experienced nursing staff.

A group of South West care home representatives and staff will make co-ordinated demands to help Filipinos stay in the country. The group may take legal action over permit rulings, which would also help Filipinos stay in the short-term.

Senior care workers from the Philippines - brought to Britain to plug healthcare staffing gaps - face being sent home to poverty just years later after new government skills criteria were announced.

A backlash from politicians, care homes and the public over human rights issues and concern a Filipino exodus would drive down care standards has forced the government into a re-think.

The Home Office has stated it will reconsider refused permit applications, but some campaigners feel it is not enough. A further blow for now-settled staff is a ruling overseas senior carers must be paid a minimum £7.02 per hour.

source: exmouthjournal.co.uk

A Catholic priest has called on the Irish government to pass clear regulations in hiring Filipino migrants.

Fr. Alan Hilliard, director of the Irish Episcopal Commission for Emigrants, told European chaplains and pastoral workers for Filipino migrants that without clear employment policies, migrants become victims of exploitation, a report in Ireland's Evening Echo said.

“I appeal to policymakers to provide legislation to scrutinize the activities of employment agencies," he said at the 7th Regional Consultation Meeting for the Filipino Ministry in Dublin.

He said that agencies often promise the highest standard of information and delivery of service to migrants, but such promises fall short of reality.

“Regulation and accountability is now required and should be guaranteed throughout Europe. At all times the interests of the migrant ought to be the priority," the priest said.

The 2006 Census shows that there 9,327 Filipinos in Ireland, 7,426 of them are in Leister. Majority of them either are domestic helpers or are working in health services.

source: GMANews.tv

Written By Erwin Oliva
Philippine Daily Inquirer

A local real estate developer said its Internet marketing strategy has helped them reach a "broader" market of Filipino expatriates most likely thinking of investing in property, an executive said Tuesday.

"The Internet is allowing us to reach a broader market of Filipinos abroad who have the spending power," said Jay Estaris, director of information technology of the Century Properties Group., in an interview.

About 80 percent of inquiries have come from the Internet, added Estaris.

During the launch of its P5-billion private residential project called Gramercy, Jose Eduardo Antonio, chairman of the Century Properties Group., acknowledged that retiring Filipino expatriates are now buying more prime properties in the country.

Despite the US economic crunch that has sent ripples throughout the world, the executive said he has not seen a decrease in the demand for its properties. He stressed that today's buyers are mostly "users" and not "speculators" who buy property with the objective of selling it when prices go up.

Written by Ronnie Nathanielsz
PhilBoxing.com

There’s an uproar mainly by Filipinos living in Australia over the mismatches in which Filipino boxers get mauled by Australians with the notable exception of IBF Pan Pacific lightweight champion Ranee Ganoy.

Philboxing.com cited the case of Sydney-based Rolando Gerongco who was referred to as just one of a countless numbers of Filipino fighters who started out as good prospects but eventually wound up as punching bags in Australia.

Dido Bohol who is from Cebu and migrated to Australia several years ago has a stable of Filipino boxers who, according to a Filipino resident who assailed the mismatches, are based at Steve Jez Gym in Liverpool in Sydney’s southwest.

According to the report from Sydney, Gerongco has a record of 13-26 with 7 KO’s and was knocked out in the first round by Lance Gostelow in Queensland last June 27. Gostelow has a record of 11-1 with 9 knockouts while Gerongco has won only 1 and lost 21 of his last 22 fights.

The Filipino southpaw who battled such talented fighters as former super flyweight Eric Barcelona in June 2001 and lost a ten round decision is now fighting as a junior welter or welterweight.

One Sydney-based Filipino who has lived in Australia for the past six years informed Viva Sports/Manila Standard said the fights are “one-sided carnages.” The writer claimed that when an Australian fighter wants to improve his record he goes “get me a Filipino.”

The Filipino who forwarded the information to us wanted to know whether the Games and Amusements Board has jurisdiction over the Australia-based Filipino boxers who he claimed “were getting slaughtered in Australian arenas.”

A student campaign using the social networking website Facebook has forced an international bank into a U-turn over charges.

HSBC is to abandon plans to scrap interest-free overdrafts for students leaving university this summer.

Thousands of students on Facebook had threatened to boycott the bank. The National Union of Students said this made all the difference to the protest.

The HSBC bank said it was not too big to listen to its customers.

Many students said they had joined the bank in the belief that they could take advantage of such a free overdraft to tide them over between leaving university and starting work, the NUS said.

source: news.bbc.co.uk

Power of social-networking in the Internet.

By Kit Bagaipo
The Philippine Daily Inquirer

Two more suspects in the midday holdup of a Bank of Commerce van last Tuesday have been arrested, according to Tagbilaran and Loay town police who staged a joint operation.

Arrested first was Arsenio Polo, alias Botyok, at 10:45 p.m. Thursday and Al Fuentes, early Friday morning, in Barangay (village) Alegria, Loay town. The two were hiding in a secluded area where they had camped out, police said.

Senior Police Officer 4 Asterio Quinio, Loay police chief, said motorcycle-for-hire drivers informed them that Polo had been spotted in Barangay (village) Palo.

The police also received a report that Casimiro "Meloy" Garcia and his group met at the residence of one Teodula Auxtero in Alegria, Loay before the Tuesday heist. Auxtero is a native of Talibon, the hometown of the suspects, said Quinio.

Police placed the village under surveillance since Tuesday after the robbery because there was a possibility that Polo and Fuentes might turn up there, Quinio said.

Fuentes, who did not know that Polo was arrested Thursday night, even communicated with his accomplice through text, he said.

Polo later led Tagbilaran City and Loay police to the location of Fuentes early Friday morning, Quinio said.

They arrived at the hideout when Fuentes just woke up. He did not resist arrest, he said.

Recovered from Fuentes were two .38 caliber revolvers and ammunition, he said.

During initial interrogation, the two suspects admitted their participation in the Bank of Commerce robbery, said Quinio.

Polo also admitted to have participated in at least three robberies with Garcia, said Quinio.

In a separate interview, Bohol police provincial director Senior Superintendent Edgardo Ingking said they considered last Tuesday's robbery as solved.

All five suspects are in police custody. The police will file robbery charges against Garcia, Polo, Fuentes, Cresencio Reguya, Gilven Nuez and van-for-hire driver Sofronio Remoreras, said Ingking.

Police first arrested Reguya who was seriously wounded during the shootout with two Bank of Commerce security guards last Tuesday. They arrested Garcia and Nuez Tuesday night at a resort in Panglao town.

Ingking clarified that Rodolfo "Dopong" Atega, who was arrested by a team of Cebu City police in San Miguel town last Wednesday was not part of the Tuesday robbery.

The shootout at the Bank of Commerce resulted in the death of security guard Remegio Cañizar and the wounding of two others -- Tirso Fullido and Meliton Lamoste -- and the suspect Reguya.

Quote from: B:) on September 01, 2007, 03:17:37 AM
Sorry I forgot to stop by ...to say... hello everyone! I've been replying some hot topics already and somehow, I realized i'm being rude by not recognizing i'm in a group, please excuse me. I'm happy to be here and nice to meet brilliant people from Bohol. Thank you Mike for accepting my registration. Ever since I got in, it's already a part of my day to stop by and check if there's any updates about my beloved Bohol.  And much to my surprise, very quick like an instantaneous flowing of waters right along the creek...i'm impressed how everyone takes advantage the beauty of high technology.. which we should.
Anyway, I'll see you guys everyday.........

Hi B,

We're glad of your presence. Hope to read more of your insights here in Tubag Bohol.

All for the love of Bohol and our nation.

God bless,
Mike

By Michelle Remo
The Philippine Daily Inquirer

It still pales in comparison with mobile phones as far as penetration goes, but the voice-over-the-Internet protocol (VOIP) is regarded as the next technology that will boom in the Philippines.

"With many Filipinos working overseas, more and more families will see the benefits of VOIP especially because it results in huge savings for them," Lance Lomako, chief executive officer of California-based Momentum Plus, told the Philippine Daily Inquirer in an interview.

VOIP enables users to make voice calls using the Internet but at a cheaper rate than using an ordinary telephone.

With VOIP, families can talk for an unlimited time for about $4.95 a month or a little over P200, compared to overseas phone calls averaging P4,500 a month.

Optimistic

Since Filipinos have loved ones scattered all over the globe, Momentum is optimistic about its business prospects here.

Momentum Plus was put up on July 4, 2003 and is one of the world's leading distributors of VOIP products worldwide with a presence in 50 countries.

Among its top officials are Filipinos--Ding and Lenny Santos--who have been staying in California for more than 20 years.

In the Philippines, Momentum Plus has been in business since 2005 through its subsidiary, Fortune Plus Global Philippines Inc.

Without disclosing figures, Lomako said Momentum Plus recorded a 420-percent growth in gross revenues last year from its worldwide operations.

Challenge in RP

This year, he said, sales are expected to grow by 800 percent.

The challenge in the Philippines is to encourage Filipinos to get VOIP access.

A dolphin on Pamilacan seas, Baclayon, Bohol

Photo by Jeroen Hellingman of www.bohol.ph

Posted with permission.

Photo By Jeroen Hellingman of www.bohol.ph

Posted with permission.

As published by the Bohol Standard, a weekly newspaper in our province, in my column: Tumoy Sa Bangaw

Daghan ang nakurat pagkahibalo kabahin sa sugilanon sa gugma ni Jiji Apalisok nga napatik niadtong niaging semana dinhi ning maong lindog sa Tumoy Sa Bangaw. Ubay-ubay ang nadawat natong reaksyon mahitungod sa kinabuhi ni Jiji, kanhi aktibo sa media sa Bohol.

Kagahapon misulat kanako si Jiji. Matod niya nga hilabihan nang tugnawa didto sa Houston, Texas karon apan ang katugnaw wa makapalong sa kainit sa ilang pagminahalay ni Charles.

Ania kining sumpay sa sulat ni Jiji kanako nga giatangan sa daghan niyang mga higala sa Amerika, Canada, Australia, Europe, sa Pilipinas, labina na gyud sa mga kaparyentehan niya sa atong probinsya:

“Kini sad si Diane was then a columnist of Sunday Post, sa wala pa sya mahimong nurse ug before sya mianhi sa Houston, Texas. Wala lang sad mi nag-communicate ni Charles kay diha paman lagi kos Pilipinas.

Then pag-ari na nako sa New York, nag-start na dayon among love story. Diane told Charles na naa kos New York. Charles called me through sa cellphone. Wala ko motubag kay busy ko, and he just left his message; then he sent his picture, ako sad... mao na dayon to…

Everyday manawag sya sa akong cellphone - four times a day na sya manawag. Then anang pagka gabii after sa iyang work sa hospital manawag na sad. Binuntagay na mig storya sa cellphone.

Imagine ha five hours ming magstorya sa phone. Dili mi bation ug kakapoy, katugon, di ra mahibaw-an namo buntag na diay. Then moundang mig storya kay matug sa sya kay palis man iyang trabaho, 3:30 to 11:30 p.m., then ako work na sad.

Then before he goes to work manawag na sad na sya, estorya na sad mi 2 hours na sad. Grabe Mike, uy. Na-develop among love through estorya sa cellphone unlike sa uban na Internet bitaw, email bitaw, kami estorya sa cellphone.

Then he proposed marriage sa phone, I didn't believe him kay kinsa bay motuo ug estorya’s laki.

Then he offered to buy me a round-trip ticket to Houston aron mag-meet mi. Iyang gipamalihug si Diane to book a ticket for me. Once in a million gyud kuno si Charles matod ni Diane kay ang Amerikano or bisan kinsa di gyud moplite ug babae kung magkita lang.

But Charles trusts Diane kay amiga man sila ug iyang gisalig iyang credit card ni Diane to buy me a round-trip ticket gikan sa New York paingon sa Houston.

Loving kaayo si Charles... very demonstrative sa iyang feelings: lahi ra gyud sa Pinoy napakyemekyeme...daghan pang pautot.

But Charles is very romantic. Pag-meet namo, didto ko mi stay sa ila ka Diane.

Nakahilak ko kay anang 1:00 a.m. of July 22, 2006 (I arrived Houston July 21, 2006 at 11:00 p.m.) Charles came near me ug ningluhod. Iya kong gisul-uban sa wedding ring kay makigminyo na gyud sya nako.

Ako sad kay nahigugma ko niya, maong nisugot ko pakasal mi. We were married on July 26, 2006.

Happy kaayo ko karon with my brand new life. Murag kapalaran gyud nako nis Charles.

I hope you can visit me here. My celphone number is - - - - - - - -. Please don't give my number to anybody.

Pinangga kaayo ko ni Charles, Mike. Imagine ingnon ko nyag... JIJI, YOU ARE MY LIFE, YOU GIVE ME INSPIRATION, I LOVE YOU VERY MUCH! Balikbalik gyud ni nya sulti nako.

We have many things in common. We have the same credit cards, the same favorite color (green), pareha sad mig bangko (depository bank).

Nangayo gyud kog sign sa Ginoo kon si Charles na ba gyud akong mabana, mao man gyud ang mahitabo na sign akong gipangayo sa Ginoo.

WE ARE REALLY MEANT FOR EACH OTHER. Si Charles mismo Mike ha mosulti gyud na morag kami jud ang gipares sa Ginoo. Naa sad syay sign ug naa syay feelings nga ako gyud iyang DESTINY.

Mao sad ako, sya sad akong DESTINY.... We are very happy together, full of love and happiness.

I just hope my marriage will last until forever and Charles won't change. PINANGGA KO KAAYO NI CHARLES! I am very proud of him.

Taas na kaayo akong email. Malipay gyud ko kon imong isulat ni akong love story.

Ako bitaw gipadad-an si Leo Udtohan ug para ibutang sa news about my marriage but wa pa sad kay naghulat syag pictures namo ni Charles. But I will send pictures....

Sige kong basa sa imong column. I also read Fred Amora's column. Mosuwat man unta kos Bohol Standard, ako naman tong gipamalihug si Leo Udtohan na mosulat kos ilang Spotlight... didto pa kos New York adto. Nisugot nagud tos Atty. Aleckoy Lim. Well, kung pwede pa ko mosulat diha sa Bohol Standard, mosulat ko. Please tell Aleckoy about it... Thanks.

Okey Mike, I look forward to your next email. So long.

Your friend,
Jiji Apalisok-Leggington

Quote from: B:) on September 01, 2007, 02:56:51 AM
If i'm not mistaken these group of criminals been robbing for years in different places and when I add up all the money they took, it must be millions and yet when I look at their photos in Bohol Chronicle newspaper, they look like pathetic sad looking bums! My guestion are...1. is there a BIG MAN paying them to rob? 2. Who is this person? 3. Where did the money went? 4. Why did all these robberies happened in Dan Lim's time?

Maybe those who are based in Bohol or in Tagbilaran can answer this question.

Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you. â€"1 Peter 5:7

On May 24, 1883, New Yorkers celebrated the completion of the Brooklyn Bridge, the first steel-wire suspension bridge. This engineering feat, however, was not accomplished without sacrifice. To lay the bridge’s giant foundations in the water, huge watertight chambers called “caissons” had to be used. Men would work in them for 8 hours while under tremendous air pressure.

Returning to normal atmospheric pressure resulted in terrible symptoms later known as caisson disease. It was discovered that a rapid decrease in air pressure releases tiny nitrogen bubbles in the blood. This cuts off the oxygen supply, resulting in nausea, achy joints, paralysis, and even death. Today, scientists know that the use of a decompression chamber allows a gradual reduction of pressure, which prevents the nitrogen bubbles from forming.

Similarly, we need a place to reduce the pressures of life. God has provided a way to “spiritually decompress.” A personal devotional time can be a place where burdens are lifted (Mark 1:35-39). There we can cast all our care upon Him (1 Peter 5:7). By focusing on God’s sufficiency we can experience His peace (Isa. 26:3). Do you have a place of spiritual decompression? â€"Dennis Fisher

There is a quiet resting place,
Where peace and joy are found;
Where burdens may be laid aside
And faith and love abound. â€"Moore

Those who wait on the Lord shall renew their strength. â€"Isaiah 40:31

source: www.rbc.org

When I was young, I was sure of many things; now there are only two things of which I am sure: one is, that I am a miserable sinner; and the other, that Christ is an all-sufficient Saviour. He is well-taught who learns these two lessons. - John Newton

George Macdonald said, 'If you knew what God knows about death you would clap your listless hands', but instead I find old people in North America just buying this whole youth obsession. I think growing older is a wonderful privilege. I want to learn to glorify God in every stage of my life. - Elisabeth Elliot

By M. O. Ligalig
The Bohol Standard

Tungod kay daghan man ang buot masayod sa sugilanon ni Jiji Apalisok, kanhi kauban sa buhat sa media, nga karon Mrs. Jiji Apalisok-Leggington na, nakahukom ko nga imantala ang sulat ni Jiji dinhi sa Tumoy Sa Bangaw aron mausa na nako ug tubag ang mga pangutana nga nadawat.

Ang mabasa ninyo (ubos sa pagtugot ni Jiji) usa lang usab sa ubay-ubay nga mga e-mail ni Jiji nga gipadala nako. Ania ang iyang pinalahi nga sugilanon sa gugma didto sa halayong yuta sa Amerika:

“Hi Mike,

Am sorry for this reply that came late. You know my laptop is wi-fi bitaw, wireless and the signal depends on the area. In my area, all the internet connections are secured, unlike in New York na tanan spot, hot spot, daghan ang wireless internet connection, then unsecured pa gyud ang mga internet connection.

Thank you kaayo sa imong column. Since your column existed, I always follow to read it.

My husband is Charles P. Leggington, 50 years old (pure ulitawo ha, dili diborsyado, walay anak sa bisan kinsang babae), an American, who was born and raised in Houston, Texas, and he works as a Pharmacy Technologist at The University of Texas - MD Anderson Cancer Center, which is the biggest cancer center in America.

The hospital is very big gyud, murag lima ka blocks ba na, and it is situated in the Medical Center of Houston, Texas. Mura sad ko ug employee sa MD Anderson kay everyday paubanon man kos akong husband sa hospital. He works from 3:30 to 11:30 p.m. (8 hours gud ko maghulat niya but I keep myself busy: tan-aw ug DVDs sa akong laptop).

How I wish you will meet my husband. Dugay naminyo akong bana kay di pa sya ready sauna and when the time came that he felt ready, niabot sad kos iyang life.

Nabung or gipul-an na syas kinabuhing ulitawo.

My husband Charles is macho, chick boy gyud ni sauna. Before he joined MD Anderson, he was in the Navy. Navy SEAL ni sya, elite group sa military sa America.

Charles is an architect, too. He is the fourth child in a family of five siblings. He has two brothers and two sisters. Both his parents had passed away.

We were maried in civil rites before Judge Zinetta A. Burney, Harris County Justice of the Peace, in Griggs Road, Houston, Texas on July 26, 2006.

And watch out for this... Charles and I will have a second wedding in church in the Province of Bohol, Philippines.

Wala pay definite date kay bag-o pa baya nipalit ug balay akong bana.

Besides di pa ko makauli kay gihikay pa man akong papeles for change of status ug sa ako nga citizenship.

I will let you know kay apil kas entourage pohon maluoy Ginoo. (tumoy sa bangaw: Salamat daan sa imbitasyon, Ji.)

You know Mike, God is really very good to me. He has poured out his abundant blessings on me. When I came here in the US, daghan gyud blessings ang Ginoo.

His greatest gift to me is my husband Charles, nga ang Ginoo nagtagbo sa among mga dalan.

Charles was introduced to me by my best friend, Diane Ramirez, a nurse who is working at The University of Texas - MD Anderson Cancer Center. Kini si Diane Ramirez is from Mansasa, Tagbilaran City, Bohol. Ako ning best friend sa Bohol.

And you know what?” (ipadayon sa sunod Domingo)

from my column in theboholstandard.com

Adunay pagtuon nga gihimo sa Britanya nga nagtug-an nga ang kabanggiitan sa usa ka tawo dili nagagumikan sa iyang natural nga abilidad.

Walay kapasikaran ang giingon nga ang pagkahanas sa usa ka butang, sama pananglit sa pagsulat o sa pagdula sa basketball, nagagumikan sa iyang natural nga pagkatawo nga nakuha sukad pa sa tago-angkan sa inahan.

Matod pa ni Michael J. Howe, Jane W. Davidson ug John A. Sluboda, mga eksperto didto sa Britanya, ang mga ebidensya nga ilang nahipos mopamatuod nga sayop gyud ang kasagaran nga gituohon nga “natural ability.”

Sa akong panan-aw, kining maong tinuohan sa “natural ability” nakapadeskorahe sa uban sa pagkab-ot sa ilang mga damgo ug pangandoy sa kinabuhi kay lagi wala sila nianang maong natural nga gasa. Igo lang sila mohangad sa uban nga mga gitawag ug kuyaw ug abilidad. Ug magpabilin nalang sila sa kasamtangan nilang pagkabutang.

Pagmata! Kitang tanan adunay katakos nga makakab-ot sa atong gitinguha kung aduna kitay paghago, pagpailob ug padayon sa pagbansay-bansay sa atong hilig.

Atong himuong sanglitanan si Tiger Woods nga kampyonato sa golf sa tibuok kalibutan. Nahibalo ka ba nga usa ka tuig ug unom pa ka bulan si Tiger Woods sukad siya gianak ginatun-an na siya sa iyang amahan kung unsay golf ug unsaon pagdula niini?

Imbis nga mamiyabas si Tiger Woods sa panahon sa iyang pagkabata o kaha magdula ug tumba-lata, nagbansay na siya ug golf sa sayo pa nga edad.

Ug angay nato mahinumduman nga bisan ug labing batid na si Tiger Woods sa golf, hangtud karon nagagahin siya ug daghang mga oras kada adlaw sa pagbansay-bansay.

Moadto ta sa kinabuhi ni Bobby Fischer, ang labing bata nga kampyon sa kalibutan sa dulang chess ug nga nahimong grandmaster sa edad pa nga dise-sayes. Siyam ka tuig ang gigugol ni Fischer sukad sa iyang pagkagamay pang bata diha sa pagdula ug chess.

Nan karon, unsay mga hiyas nga angay natong batonan aron mahimo tang kuyaw?

Kasagaran kanato pul-anon kaayo. Mosugod lang kadiyot ug dili molahutay. Ang uban nakasugod na, apan dili molahutay sa unahan.

Ang mga kinaiya nga ingon niini, sa akong pagsabot, usa sa mga hinungdan nga daghan sa atong mga kaigsuonan ang way pag-uswag sa kinabuhi. Dali ra kaayo nga mobalik sa agianan kung hangak na ang tungasonon.

Unang kinaiya nga gisugyot sa mga eksperto mao ang paghago o pagpuga gyud sa atong singot.

Matod pa sa atong mga katigulangan: “Ang dili mag-antos, dili masantos.” Kung dili kita motalaw sa kalisud, aduna gyoy maani ang atong mga paningkamot. Nagbansay-bansay si Tiger Woods sa golf sulod sa kinse ka tuig adusa siya moapil ug torneyo, ug nahimo siyang kampyon sa eda nga dise-otso.

Ikaduhang hiyas mao ang makanunayon nga pagbansay-bansay sa atong hilig.

Tinuod dili sayon ang pagbansay-bansay kung kini magkanunay. Apan mao lang kini ang paagi nga mahimo tang hanas, mahimo tang eksperto. Mao kini ang sekreto ni Michael Jordan. Nipahulay na ang iyang mga kauban sa pag-practice, apan si Michael Jordan nagsige gihapon ug itsa-itsa sa bola.

Kataposang hiyas mao ang pagpailob. Pailob ug magpasensya taliwala sa kapakyasan. Kung adunay sayop, himuon kini nato nga kapanaminan, ug atong paningkamotan nga mahipno na ang sayop nga paagi sa sunod higayon.

Ug labing mahinungdanon, mao nga ubanan nato sa mga pag-ampo atong mga paningkamot.

Kung wala ang pagpanalangin sa Ginoo, wala gyud tay mahimo.

“The first step toward success is taken when you refuse to be a captive of the environment in which you first find yourself.” - Mark Caine

“Victory is sweetest when you've known defeat.” - Malcolm Forbes

“Don't wait until everything is just right. It will never be perfect. There will always be challenges, obstacles and less than perfect conditions. So what. Get started now. With each step you take, you will grow stronger and stronger, more and more skilled, more and more self-confident and more and more successful.” - Mark Victor Hansen

“The greatest barrier to success is the fear of failure.”-Sven Goran Eriksson

Quote from: Onicul85 on September 01, 2007, 02:03:25 AM
I'll check it out, Mike. Mohandis--di pood puydi i nuke-on ang Saudi kai best friend good na sa Washington. Ug naa sila oil--best friends na sila--pero ug wa na yamo oil--siguro pooydi i bombahan.

American oil companies are based in Saudi.

Quote from: Onicul85 on September 01, 2007, 01:43:57 AM
There is a way to kill Bin Laden, and absolutely wipe out his immediate followers. Ultranationalist-Right wing Americans would prefer to 'Nuke and saturate Afghanistan/Iraq/Iran'---however thank god the majority of politicians dont think like that...

I mean..technically..thats one way of making sure he's dead. Who can survive a thermonuclear blast?

Watch Michael Moore's film, Onic, and you'd realize that the U.S. cannot afford to kill Bin Laden.

The wealth of Bin Laden Family is perhaps 5 % of the total wealth of America. Saudi Arabia's investment in the U.S. is 10 % of the total money value of America.

By Rey Anthony Chiu
Philippine Information Agency

Yes, it can be done, admits Bohol’s 302nd Brigade Executive Officer Army Major Lao Lucas.

As key officer in the Bohol Army hierarchy, Maj. Lucas was asked if the Bohol success in using the government’s military hard power and the development’s soft power could also be effective as a template for other areas with similar problems.

Brigade Civil Military Operations Officer Major Anastacio Suaybaguio Jr also shared the same stand and added that as long as the local government units cooperate, the 35 year old insurgency problem in the country would not just diminish but may be completely eradicated.

Citing the major role of local government units in anti-insurgency drive, Maj. Lucas said in Bohol, the local government, especially the provincial government worked in tandem with the military in implementing the National Internal Security Plan (NISP).

He claimed that in Bohol, while the military take charge in clearing and holding villages affected by insurgency, the local government then sends in community organizers to organize, consolidate and develop the areas to prevent the insurgents from regaining control.

Clear, hold, consolidate or organize and develop have been the crucial points in the country’s internal security plan, Maj. Lao stressed.

The Bohol effort may be replicated all right, as long as the LGUs have the commitment to drive poverty and so would insurgency lose their grip, he said.

Even then, the government, through the LGUs needs to collaborate to play high-profile roles in the government’s campaign to end the 35 years communist insurgency problem in the country, both firmly said.

In Bohol, the template worked as from 284 armed rebels in 2001, the number dwindled to only 42 at present, military information reveal.

Both officials also reported that some 185 former rebels have gone back to the folds raising Bohol’s anti-insurgency scorecards and drawing national attention as well.
 
Still, Gov Erico Aumentado said a number of communist rebels have expressed interest in returning to the folds of the law and live normal lives, but they are afraid of being arrested and prosecuted for non-political crimes.

In related developments, Cabinet Secretary Ricardo Saludo said the government is now studying the proposal of the Local Peace and Security Assembly (LPSA) for Central Visayas for the grant of amnesty to the NPAs.

As this developed, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Jesus Dureza said that although talks between the government and the National Democratic Front-Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army (NDF-CPP-NPA) have been stalled since 2004, the government will continue to pursue its peace initiatives through the LGUs.

He pointed out that President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo is determined to put an end to the communist insurgency in three years.

“Our initiative now is really to go to the locals (LGUs) and emulate the Bohol experience,” Dureza said.

The President has also signed last March Administrative Order 172 creating the National Committee on Social Integration to strengthen government efforts to help rebel returnees.

Quote from: Onicul85 on September 01, 2007, 01:33:57 AM
Mao jud na Mike..the conventional warefare is something the US can accomplish--pero imagine the insurgency that would take place? It just boggles my mind to think about it--i mean ang population of Iraq is 25 million--and its already costing us billions to stabilize the country--and thousands of American lives. Iran has around 70+ million people (about 3 times the size of Iraq)..it would be an economic, military and political nightmare.

I pray that Washington evades hostilities with Iran as much as possible. Last I heard---if a war with Iran was initiated--the US would initiate the draft again....

Onic, if there are evidences that Iran is a threat to world peace and security, then I will vote for a war. But if going war is motivated by oil greed, then America is committing suicide.

When the cook on his shrimp boat went into labor 30 miles offshore, captain Ed Keisel grabbed a new roll of paper towels and a first aid handbook and did the best he could.

He successfully delivered Cindy Preisel's baby boy, even though the baby's feet emerged first.

"I'm no doctor, but even I knew that's not supposed to happen," Keisel said.

"I reached with my fingers... as gently as I could and popped out his left shoulder and then his right," he said. "But then the little guy was stuck by his head, being strangled. So I did the only thing I could -- I waited for a contraction and then slid my fingers in around the top of his head and scooped him out."

But the newborn wasn't breathing, so Keisel gently administered CPR.

"I started giving mouth-to-mouth, three short puffs, and then thumping and rubbing its back," he said.

The baby began to take short breaths, and after 20 to 25 minutes of CPR, gulped in air. His lips turned rosy and he started crying.

"I was so happy and relieved," Cindy Preisel said. "It's hard to put into words."

Keisel used net twine, sterilized in boiling water, to tie off the umbilical cord and cut the newborn free from his mother.

source: cnn.com

A Malaysian man with a mouth of steel on Thursday beat his own world record and dragged three train coaches 2.8 meters (nine feet) using only his teeth, his manager said.

Raja Gigi, who currently holds the Guinness World Record for pulling the heaviest weight, grappled with nearly 300 tonnes of metal (660 pounds) in an effort to beat his 2003 record and mark Malaysia's 50th year of nationhood.

"It went extremely well, he's broken the world record," said his manager Anna Chidamber, adding that 41-year-old Raja was "very happy" with his feat.



source: breitbart.com

The U.S. can take over Iran in hours but what's next? Iraq lessons.

Computer scientists at Harvard's School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, in collaboration with colleagues from the Netherlands, are using a novel peer-to-peer video sharing application to explore a next-generation model for safe and legal electronic commerce that uses Internet bandwidth as a global currency.

The application (available for free download at http://tv.seas.harvard.edu) is an enhanced version of a program called Tribler, originally created by scientists at the Delft University of Technology and Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam to study video file sharing. The software exploits the power of peer-to-peer technology, which is based on forming networks among individual users.

“Successful peer-to-peer systems rely on designing rules that promote fair sharing of resources amongst users. Thus, they are both efficient and powerful computational and economic systems,” says David Parkes, John L. Loeb Associate Professor of the Natural Sciences at Harvard. "Peer-to-peer has received a bad rap, however, because of its frequent association with illegal music or software downloads.”

Unlike traditional, centralized approaches, peer-to-peer systems are incredibly robust, as they can scale smoothly since the software adjusts to the number and behavior of individual users. The researchers were inspired to use a version of the Tribler video sharing software as a model for an e-commerce system because of such flexibility, speed, and reliability. “Our platform will provide fast downloads by ensuring sufficient uploads,” explains Johan Pouwelse, an assistant professor at Delft University of Technology and the technical director of Tribler. “The next generation of peer-to-peer systems will provide an ideal marketplace not just for content, but for bandwidth in general.”

The researchers envision an e-commerce model that connects users to a single global market, without any controlling company, network, or bank. They see bandwidth as the first true Internet “currency” for such a market. For example, the more a user uploads now (i.e. earns) and the higher the quality of the contributions, the more s/he would be able to download later (i.e. spend) and the faster the download speed. More broadly, this paradigm empowers individuals or groups of users to run their own “marketplace” for any computer resource or service.

source: http://tv.seas.harvard.edu/press.php

By Rey Anthony Chiu
Philippine Information Agency

It was a triumph of the community and a test of the Oplan Sumpo Krimen, PSSUpt Edgardo Ingking said when asked to comment on the recent arrest of 6 suspected members of a high profile rob group who owned a series high profile hits in Tagbilaran City and in Bohol.

Incapacitated by a severe lack of manpower amidst relentless sorties by criminals, police director said the Camp Dagohoy initiated community-based crime prevention plan is one that fills the void.

Deputy commander Psupt Ernesto Agas, representing the police provincial director at Kapihan sa PIA also credited the crucial role played by the community in the operational success of the rob-group bust.

Sharing the same ideas, both officers say that the recent bust of the Talibon rob group was a victory of the community as a key pillar in crime prevention.

And just as the resort security, city and the provincial police are grabbing for the credits in the successful operations that caught the rob-mastermind, Bohol Tri-Media Association President Peter Dejaresco said no doubt that media had its day of glory when it helped in the operations that busted the rob-group.

“Media role leading to the arrest and apprehension of the criminals that day was perfectly all right”, Dejaresco said.

Speaking during the same forum in Baclayon, Station DyTR manager Carlito Responte said credits are immaterial as long as the criminals are nabbed.

With the issue still to be resolved if it was the police, the resort guards, the media or the community who facilitated so that the long arms of the law could finally catch up with the last two suspects, Loay operatives nabbed Friday the last two suspects involved in the robbery.

Nabbed after Loay cops acted on a tip from concerned residents were suspects Al Fuentes and Artemio Polo.

Last Tuesday, the robbers and accomplices waited for the Bank of Commerce pick up-deposit van to pull up in front of the bank along Carlos P Garcia Avenue. The van was reportedly carrying P400T deposit money in two bags from Unitop.

When it came, they swooped down and hit hard while shooting to death security escort Remigio Cañizar. A shoot-out started when other escorts held to their positions. Along the scuffle, robbers were able to snatch one bag with P200T and fled with the cash.

Wounded while defending the bank money were guards Meliton Lamoste and Tirso Fullido who were hit when they shot back at the fleeing robbers running towards upper Borja Street.

Robbers left behind a wounded suspect identified as Crescencio Reguya who was hit. Another wounded suspect fled with a companion in motorcycles going from Borja to Miguel Parras St..
 
On their escape route, the robbers followed an elaborate plan determined to give chasing police a headache. But, apparently, they were no match to the ever-seeing community that resolved to put an end to the appalling daylight robberies haunting Tagbilaran City.

After the escape, a flood of information reaching radio anchors established a rare show of community concern, BTMA member Fortunato Cosap said.

The information broadcasted live on the radios doing per minute coverage allowed Bohol residents to track the movement of the criminals and the police response in the ensuing drama, reporters claimed.

Beat reporters fed live information updates to their radio outfits as the people tracked events. It also helped police authorities coordinate their movements that led to the capture of the last two of the six suspects implicated, PSSupt. Ingking admitted.

While everyone tuned their ears to the radio, police later cuffed two of the suspects in a beach resort in Panglao. Nabbed while fully armed with a fully loaded ingram assault rifle and a 9 mm gun were rob mastermind Casimero Garcia and wounded Gelvin Nuez of Magsaysay, Talibon town.

A texter told radio anchors of the van get-away vehicle color and plate numbers allowing the police to pinpoint the whereabouts of the suspects.

Van driver Sofronio Remoreras was also implicated in the case while abetting criminals.

Last Friday, also acting on a tip from residents, Loay cops tracked another suspect acting suspiciously in Palo and another one in Alegria. The two were identified by their cohorts..

The arrest of all the six suspects, the police tracking a wounded robber and his companion, the get-away van and the details of their escape were all part of the information from a vigilant community that got through the radio airlanes, filled news reporters’ cellphone inboxes and eventually led to the rob-gang bust, PSSupt Ingking said.

"They [the source's institution] have ‘instructions' (yes, that was the word used) from the Office of the Vice-President to roll out a campaign for war with Iran in the week after Labor Day; it will be coordinated with the American Enterprise Institute, the Wall Street Journal, the Weekly Standard, Commentary, Fox, and the usual suspects. It will be heavy sustained assault on the airwaves, designed to knock public sentiment into a position from which a war can be maintained. Evidently they don't think they'll ever get majority support for this â€" they want something like 35-40 percent support, which in their book is plenty."

This comes via Barnett R. Rubin, Director of Studies and Senior Fellow at New York University's Center on International Cooperation, and a leading expert on Afghanistan, who has it from "a friend who has excellent connections in Washington and whose information has often been prescient." According to Rubin's anonymous sibyl â€" or is that seer? â€" we can look forward to "a big kickoff on September 11."

source: antiwar.com

By Rhonda Markby

A young pilot who crashed in a New Zealand mountain range taped a chunk of his scalp back on and trekked for two hours to raise help for his injured student.

Flight instructor Richard Bateman, 27, is expected to be released from hospital after crashing in the Gammock Range in a Robin R2120 on Sunday afternoon.

Student pilot Nick Eagleson, 33, was knocked out in the crash but Bateman managed to crawl out of the wreckage with a badly gashed scalp and free his companion.

He used his survival kit to dress his wound before walking eight kilometres down a steep valley to get help.

Bateman was taking Eagleson through some mountain-flying tuition when the plane crashed. They were part of a group of 35 club members on a week-long New Zealand tour.



source: theage.com.au

Quote from: Ginger on September 01, 2007, 12:56:51 AM
Mike, let Bambi do the financing since she is based in Germany...

Let me think about this, Zel. 

Research by the University at Albany shows that information conveyed by a kiss can have profound consequences for romantic relationships, and can even be a major factor in ending one.

In a recently published article,  Susan M. Hughes, Marissa A. Harrison, and Gordon G. Gallup, Jr. reveal that many college students have found themselves attracted to someone, only to discover after they kissed them for the first time that they were no longer interested.  "In other words," said Gallup, an evolutionary psychologist, "While many forces lead two people to connect romantically, the kiss, particularly the first kiss, can be a deal breaker."

The UAlbany study also found sex differences in the importance and type of kissing. Males tended to kiss as a means to an end -- to gain sexual favors or to reconcile. In contrast, females kiss to establish and monitor the status of their relationship, and to assess and periodically update the level of commitment on the part of a partner.

In a sample of 1,041 college students, researchers found only five who had never experienced romantic kissing and more than 200 who estimated having kissed more than 20 partners.

source: sciencedaily.com

Quote from: Bambi on August 30, 2007, 06:48:16 AM

Mike,  you are a great poet why not writing a book?

am sure it will work

There will be a poetry book (Bisaya) by yours truly to be printed perhaps in Germany. Still looking for funds to finance the printing.

By Sara Burnett
Rocky Mountain News

As she stepped to the microphone to give her commencement speech last spring, Erica Corder knew that what she was about to say might ruffle some feathers.

But the 2006 Lewis Palmer High School graduate, one of 15 valedictorians who addressed the crowd, didn't believe she had a choice.

"I really felt God calling me to do this," Corder said Thursday. "My top priority is obeying God."

So Erica Corder thanked all the teachers, parents and peers in the crowd for their encouragement over the years.

Then, deviating from the 30-second speech that had been approved by the principal, she began speaking about "someone who loves you more than you could ever imagine."

"His name is Jesus Christ," Corder said. "If you don't already know Him personally I encourage you to find out more about the sacrifice He made for you ..."

The approximately 30-second speech sparked an immediate controversy.

Before she was granted her diploma, Corder was required to apologize in an e-mail to the entire school community.

Now Corder is fighting back.

In a lawsuit filed in federal court this week, Corder says the Monument high school violated her rights to free speech and equal protection.

Corder's father, Steve, said Thursday the Corders are not seeking money other than attorney fees.

Rather, they want to get clarity on an area of the law that has caused problems for graduation speakers of strong faith across the country in recent years.

The district has a written policy titled "Student Expression Rights," according to the lawsuit. It prohibits expression that, among other things, is disruptive, obscene, vulgar, slanderous or threatens violence. It does not specifically prohibit religious speech, the lawsuit states.

Corder said the valedictorians had only a few days to prepare their speeches before they practiced them for the principal, Mark Brewer.

She knew she wanted to honor God in her remarks, but she didn't do so in her practice speech because she knew there was a chance Brewer would prohibit the comments, and because she didn't think there would be enough time to work through the issue with him, she said.

After the speech, she was escorted by a teacher to see the assistant principal, who told her she wouldn't be getting her diploma, the lawsuit alleges. Five days later, in a meeting with Brewer, he told her the comments were "immature," according to the lawsuit.

Corder agreed to issue an apology because she was worried that if she didn't do so, it might affect her ability to attend college. She wrote a brief paragraph saying she did not intend to offend anyone, and that Brewer did not condone her words.

After her statement was distributed via e-mail, Corder received her diploma.

A Chinese woman who stole a baby in a desperate attempt to convince her boyfriend that she had borne a child has been jailed for 18 months, Xinhua news agency said Thursday.

The 36-year old woman, surnamed Liu, pretended to be pregnant after her prospective in-laws vetoed her marriage because a tumor in her womb had made her infertile.

Two days after entering the hospital in east China's Zhejiang province on her "due date," she stole a baby boy from the maternity ward while the mother was napping. She then called her boyfriend and asked him to take her home.

source: news.yahoo.com

Quote from: Mohandis Ban-alam on August 31, 2007, 04:39:56 AM
ka swerte sa iro uy! sa amo kay kalderetahon raman na iro if wala nay amo!

It is so unhealthy to eat dog meat, according to health experts.

An Aspen actor/director is recovering from a minor Shakespearean tragedy while he was performing on an outdoor stage Wednesday evening.

Kent Hudson Reed was really getting into his role as Brutus when he accidentally stabbed himself and cut open his leg.

He was performing a scene from "Julius Caesar" when he suddenly realized something was wrong. He'd been handling a sword while talking to Marc Antony and Cassius about swords and blood and the murder of Caesar when he looked down at his leg and saw his cream pants turn red.

He tried to carry on, but Reed said his "boot was filling up with blood," and he was "flubbing" his lines, wondering if he was going to pass out or if the audience could see the blood.

According to the Aspen Daily News, Reed broke character and then told his audience, "You'll have to excuse me. We'll have to pause for a few minutes -- I seem to have stabbed myself."

source: thedenverchannel.com

Indiana - Police said an intoxicated mother faces charges after she let her 5-year-old son drive her around, reported WRTV-TV in Indianapolis.

Holly Schnobrich, 24, of Lafayette, was charged with two counts of felony neglect and public intoxication.

The boy and his 3-year-old brother, who was also in the vehicle, were placed into the custody of the Department of Child Services, police said.

Investigators said neither child was restrained.

The Tippecanoe County Sheriff's Department said they were called early Sunday morning after neighbors told them they saw the boy behind the wheel.

"It was just bizarre," Barrett told the Journal & Courier of Lafayette. "I asked, 'Is this toddler driving your car?' She said, 'He's a good driver.'"

Police said another neighbor took Schnobrich's car keys so that she couldn't get away before officers arrived.

According to a probable cause affidavit, Schnobrich admitted taking the prescription painkiller Percocet and had a near-empty bottle of sleeping pills that she told them she had for two days.

Officers said the child driver told them he couldn't reach the pedals.

source: cbs46.com 46 News

Written By Rey Anthony Chiu
Philippine Information Agency

Getting revolutionary was how Ubay regained San Vicente barangay, and after potable water gushed into the area, people are more productive and kids visibly have more play and study time.

For the local head teacher Romeo C. Mariño, the results have been evident all through out the community.

San Vicente earned a United Nations Development Program fund for their potable water supply through the Bohol Poverty Reduction Management Office (BPRMO). Now, for the residents of this once-government-forsaken land hidden behind Ubay mega projects, the future indeed looked better.

Here, empowered residents aware of their rights and responsibilities admit there is now a future for their kids.

Then made infamous as a stronghold of the New People’s Army, a future for San Vicente was bleak, admitted barangay officials during an informal forum with a Kabataan News Network crew.

While hosting a brood of red fighters, San Vicente saw a lot of troubles. A barangay captain was slain here. Another troop of military men got ambushed a few kilometers way down southwest of here.

To government officials, traveling 17 kilometers of rough road and exposed to rebel threats plus the prospect of facing death is enough nightmare to risk. This is why people have said government presence then is almost nil in such a damned slice of Ubay.

But that was the past.

Now fully recovered from the choking embrace of the New People’s Army, empowered residents hope they could resist the same threat that has once haunted them, and at the same time resolve each conflict that comes along.

The process of regaining the place however had been just as revolutionary as the indoctrination that was breeding ideologists in the place.

With most people looking at government as a basket of goodies, it was not hard to dissuade people from blaming government for its wanting presence in the area, community organizers claimed.

That time, the barangay has only about 10% of its residents with government, explained Ubay Mayor Eutiquio Bernales during an interview. The rest, he said are either hard-core members of supporters of the movement.

The threat perhaps made former officials adamant in getting into the area and so would government services. The result is a barangay so left behind in development, the mayor who is also a doctor added.

San Vicente was then breeding young and old red fighters mad enough to believe that only by armed struggle can they move out of their sluggish situation.

After the areas was identified as NPA controlled and its people indiscriminately taxed by the movement, the Army’s 302nd Brigade moved in a special operations’ team (SOT) from its 15th Infantry Battalion led then by Lt. Noel Caibigan.

In weeks, the military forces reestablished the government’s presence in the place and started cultivating rapport with the people, Bohol Poverty Reduction Management Office (BPRMO) Community Organizer and veterinary doctor Asteria Estoreon recalled.

As soon as the military cleared and held the barangay, Dr. Estoreon and another organizer Lindyl Grado organized the people to help then identify their issues and concerns, Capitol based BPRMO records bare.

Completely left behind, mired in poverty and with barely enough potable water for home-use, BPRMO merited a United Nations Development Project Fund for the organized San Vicente Water Service Association (SAVIWASA).

Now slowly washing the tarnished image as a rebel-infested barangay, local officials here led by Chairman Teresita Dopalco have owned enough confidence to keep the barangay safe from the clutches of the men of the hills.

Willing to give in a follow through activity, Mayor Bernales said the local government is pushing for a squash farming industry, of which the town would source out its squash noodles for consumption to the town’s 44 barangays and outside towns.

Even then, with the government and the civil society now actively involved in aiding the community stand back and regain its rightful place, school children are also gaining the confidence that would allow them to anchor their dreams of a better place for their kids in the future

A U.S. military plane carrying a U.S. congressional delegation came under fire this week while taking off from Baghdad airport, forcing the crew to take evasive action, the military said on Friday.

No one on board the C-130 aircraft was hurt during the "surface-to-air" attack on Thursday, it said.

"The aircrew dispensed flares as a defensive countermeasure and conducted standard evasive maneuvers," the military said in a statement, adding the plane completed its flight.

The statement did not say who was among the congressional delegation nor specify the type of surface-to-air fire.

Numerous U.S. lawmakers have been visiting Baghdad ahead of a series of pivotal reports to be delivered to Congress in the coming weeks on the security and political situation in Iraq.

source: reuters.com

Ancient Scottish legends spoke of a giant sea monster that lived in the waters of Loch Ness. In 1934, Colonel Robert Wilson, a highly respectable British surgeon, said that he noticed something moving in the water and took a picture of it. The resulting image showed the slender neck of a serpent rising out of the Loch. The photo came to be known simply as "The Surgeon's Photo" and for decades it was considered to be the best evidence of the monster.

It wasn't until 1994, when Christian Spurling, before his death at the age of 90, confessed his involvement in a plot, that included Wetherell and Colonel Wilson, to create the famous photo. Apparently Wetherell's motive was revenge, since he was humiliated years earlier when the supposed monster's footprints he found were nothing but dried hippo's footsteps.

source: 2spare.com

The so-called Piltdown Man was fragments of a skull and jaw bone found in 1912 from a gravel pit at Piltdown in the English county of Sussex. The fragments were claimed by experts of the day to be the fossilised remains of a hitherto unknown form of early man.

From the British Museum's reconstruction of the skull, it was proposed that Piltdown man represented an evolutionary missing link between ape and man, since the combination of a human-like cranium with an ape-like jaw tended to support the notion then prevailing in England that human evolution was brain-led.

In 1953, 41 years later, the Piltdown man was finally exposed as a composite forgery: it consisted of a human skull of medieval age, the 500-year-old lower jaw of a Sarawak orangutan and chimpanzee fossil teeth. The identity of the Piltdown forger remains unknown.

source: 2spare.com

If I remember those fireflies swarming outside our house I would feel so emotional about it "kay sa matag sud-ong ko sa mga aninipot, gihakot ko ang mga damgo sa Anda sa nanglabayng katuigan."

Tubag Bohol is growing and expanding.

Let's continue to rock Bohol.

You can read more of our site's statistics by visiting the link below:

http://tubagbohol.mikeligalig.com/index.php?action=stats

No, there is no way that this ridiculous myth can be true. Syphilis, a sexually transmitted disease, if left untreated can lead to blindness, dementia and death. This is where this myth came from.

source: ririanproject.com

It is not possible to transplant a whole eye. The eye is connected to the brain by a small nerve called the optic nerve. If this nerve is cut it cannot be reconnected, making it impossible to remove the eye and replace it with another one. When doctors figure out how to transplant the brain, they will be able to transplant the eye.

source: ririanproject.com

(FOR SATURN: five years after your death i am still shaken by the memory of your last moment on earth, so i wrote this poem for you.)
sinulat ni M. O. Ligalig

Daw gihiwa sa kutsilyo ang among kasing-kasing
inig kadungog namo sa imong pagping-it sa kasakit.
Bisan unsa nalang lamiang pagkaon among gibayang,
igo ka lang molingiw, moluklok sa suok, motago.
Naglibog mi ni Mama unsaon ka namo pagluwas
gikan nianang kalisud nga hilabihan.
Dili na makaantos ako ug si Mama
nga makabati sa imong dangoy-ngoy
sa adlaw ug sa gabii - usa
na ka semana nakalabay.

Amo kang napalgan sa gawas sa balay ni Nay Flora,
naghigda sa yuta, walay umoy, walay kadasig.
Kami nalang unta ang moantos sa imong pag-antos,
apan unsaon man, dili mo kami hisabtan.
Nagsabot mi ni Mama nga siya ang mogunit
sa imong lawas - lawas nga yagpis na intawon
kay lagi walay kaon, wala kay ganang mokaon.
Amo kang gipugos ug panga-nga, gibangilan
namo ug kahoy imong baba aron dili mi mapaakan.
Gialam-alaman ka ni Mama, gihapyod-hapyod
ang imong agtang ug tutonlan ug gisuginlan
nga dili ka mosupak sa among pagtabang kanimo.
Milugnot ka ug maayo, nagkisi-kisi, mitiyabaw.
Padayon ka namo nga gialam-alaman ug gisultihan
sa daghang mga pulong sa pagpangga ug pagmahal.
Pinaagi sa akong tudlo, gikuot ko imong tutonlan,
pamasin nga akong mahikapan ang bukog
o bisan unsa man nga nakabara ug nakasangit
sa imong tilaok o kaha sa punoan sa imong dila.
Pakyas ang paningkamot sa akong mga tudlo.
Mao nga nakahukom mi ni Mama nga pakan-on ka ug tundan
kay di mahimo iring ang mokamras sa imong tutonlan,
pamasin nga modailos ang bukog ngadto sa imong tiyan.
Bisan supak sa imong gusto ug milugnot ka pag-ayo,
akong gidasok ang hinog nga tundan sa imong tutonlan.
Unya, nadungog namo ang nagkahanap mong siyagit;
nabatyagan namo ang pagpamoypoy sa imong kusog;
nakita namo ang imong pagtinga, pagginhawa sa kataposan.
Wa mi makatingog ni Mama - nagtinan-away lang ming duha.
Ug amo kang gisud-ong nga mipahulay sa among mga bukton.
Wa mi kasabot sa among gibati nga kaguol ug pagbangutan.
Nagdungan ug gimaw ang among mga luha ni Mama,
nagdunga usab kami ug tiyabaw tungod sa imong pagpanaw.

(circa 2001. i wrote this poem while waiting for a jeep outside the gaisano mall in bajada, davao city. it was a dreary night. an hour after i waited for a jeep, when all commuters had gone home, i still found myself standing on the same spot, writing, reflecting, drinking an endless rain).

gigambalay ni M. O. Ligalig

Mibunok ang makusog nga ulan
Matag tulo sa ulan giyarok sa ugang yuta

Ug napasum-ok ko sa nagponsisok nga mga tawo
Nanggitindog sa hawanan gawas sa Gaisano

Nasud-ong ko ang matag dis-og ug kundat
Sa tawhanong kaguliyang

Dinan-agan sa daw nag-asoasong sugang dagitabnon
Nasuyop ning panan-aw
Mga tawong nagpaabot ug bakanteng jeep de pasahero

Minghoy ang panagway sa uban
Kaha gibudlay sa kahaw-ang sa kinabuhi
O naguol nga malangan sa pagpauli

Unya, mibaha ang mga tawo
Magsira na ang Gaisano
Misamot kasamok
Piot, sutsot
Mga konduktor, dispatser sigeg tagawtaw

Padayon kong nagtindog, wa naggimok
Nagtutok sa tawhanong kalanrakas
Mibasa sa mensahe
Sa mga panagway nga nangagi

Sila lunlon nagdali
Sama sa matag tulo sa ulan
Naglumba makatugpa sa yuta

Unya, milurang ang singot sa langit
Namingaw, nahanaw ang kangitngit

Nabilin kong nagtindog, nag-inusara
Namalandong nga wa mahiuban
Sa tawhanong kaguliyang
Nga daw way kinutuban

Pune, India: The Bharatiya Vidyarthi Sena (BVS), the students’ arm of the Shiv Sena, has threatened to intensify its agitation against academic institutions offering professional studies like medical, management and design in association with foreign universities.

Addressing a press conference here on Tuesday, BVS city unit president Ajay Shinde said these institutions were operating in gross violation of the position taken by the concerned professional regulatory bodies regarding foreign universities.

"The institutions are neither proving their credentials nor the government officials concerned are willing to act against them," Shinde said. "Scores of unsuspecting students are getting misled in the process," he said.

For instance, he said, the Medical Council of India (MCI) has posted an unambiguous notice on its official website, cautioning students against seeking admission to institutes offering degrees from foreign universities. The MCI has stated, among other things, that no foreign university has been permitted to start medical course, equivalent of MBBS, or to establish such campus in India. These medical degrees are not approved.

Still, several private institutes in the city, claiming to be recruiting agents of universities in countries like the Philippines, China, USSR, Mauritius, The Netherlands, etc were attracting students through advertisements.

source: Times of India

Philippine Agriculture Secretary Arthur Yap has announced the planned import by local producers and traders of some three million kilos of chicken in the last quarter of 2007 to meet demand for the product.

In an interview at the Koresko Hotel here, Yap said stakeholders recently agreed to bring in chicken imports, which are expected to arrive on or before November of this year.

The volume, he said, is not even one per cent of the country's annual chicken consumption of 450 million heads.

The sector imported about three to five million kilos from December 2006 to January 2007 as they expected an increase in demand for the holiday season.

source: news.yahoo.com

American computer company Dell Inc. is expanding its customer support services in the Philippines but has yet to announce new investments in its local operations.

Dell is targeting to end the year with 2,500 workers, said Michael Garrison, head of Dell International Services Philippines. In an interview, Garrison said the company is on track to meet this target and currently employs around 1,500 workers.

Dell started its contact center operations in the country in 2006 and now operates two facilities located in Eastwood, Quezon City and at the SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City. The Philippine centers provide mostly technical support for Dell desktop and laptop users in the US.

source: The Philippine Daily Inquirer

Southeast Asian developers are trying to attract Japanese retirees, hoping that low-cost homes and health care will help create a profitable niche market.

Although the Australian Gold Coast and Hawaii have been favored destinations for elderly Japanese in the past, Thailand, the Philippines and Malaysia are now promoting "long stay" programs that offer foreign retirees visas and tax breaks.

Home builders are hoping that what today is a trickle â€" only 1 in 3,000 Japanese pensioners lives abroad â€" will become a steady flow, because people over the age of 50 in Japan hold 75 percent of individual wealth there.

In the Philippines, which would like to attract about a million foreign retirees by 2015 and thereby create four million related jobs, Robinson Land plans to build houses for Japanese, who more used to living in cramped apartments.

"A government is selling the Philippines as a retirement destination, so we're looking at building leisure retirement villas," Frederick Go, president of Robinson Land, said at a recent conference in Hong Kong.

source: International Herald Tribune

By Veronica Uy

Five Filipino seamen have been acquitted by a Turkish court on charges of smuggling marijuana into Turkey, the Department of Foreign Affairs has said.

In his report to Foreign Affairs Secretary Alberto Romulo, Philippine Ambassador to Turkey Bahnarim Guinomla said that on August 22, the 14th criminal court in Istanbul found no evidence to substantiate the charge against Captain Reynaldo Derige, Second Officer Julio Cagampan, Chief Engineer Othoniel Bungalso, Chief Officer Alberto Jose, and Bosun Francisco E. Pontillas.

Marijuana encased in metal containers was found attached to the bottom of the ship Federal Fuji, which Derige and his crew were manning.

When it docked in Turkey on May 11, the ship was raised in a shipyard for routine maintenance. It was during this time that Derige saw the metal containers. He immediately called the attention of the authorities; the court took this action by Derige into account when it acquitted him and the other seafarers, Guinomla said.

source: The Philippine Daily Inquirer

Nestle, the world’s largest food company, will establish a service center in the Philippines to provide financial and human resources work for its companies throughout Asia and Africa.

source: computerwire.com

The University of the Philippines College of Law bested nine other universities in Asia to emerge as champion of the 2007 Asia Cup International Law Moot Court Competition held in Japan.

The victory of Anna Lorem Ramos, Janice Lee, Maricel Seno and Anya Palileo marks the third time in nine years that UP won the competition sponsored annually by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan. UP shares the distinction with the National University of Singapore (NUS). UP prevailed over Ateneo and FEU in the national qualifying rounds to earn the privilege of officially representing the country in Japan.

According to Harry Roque, Director of the UP Institute of International Legal Studies and professor of the four students, the Asia Cup is a prestigious regional moot court competition where law students showcase their skill at both written and oral pleadings. “The team’s victory indicate the students’ strong interest in international law not just for purely academic reasons but for its practical applications as well. The conflict in Mindanao, for example, is a perfect source of application for the law on armed conflict.”

The Asia Cup requires students need to demonstrate their mastery of public international law, humanitarian law, human rights and refugee law in acting as legal counsels arguing before a simulated International Court of Justice.

The panel of judges was composed Dr. Jean-Marie Henckaerts of the International Committee of the Red Cross who is also author of the seminal three volume textbook on International Humanitarian Law, Ambassador Chusei Yamada of the United Nations International Law Commission, Ambassador Tetsuyo Endo of the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Dr. Umesh Kadam of the ICRC.

source: ABS-CBN News

Antonio Meloto is downplaying a split in the Catholic Church lay group Couples for Christ (CfC) that underpinned his highly successful Gawad Kalinga (GK) housing program to build a nation without slums, declaring “we are working more, talking less.”

The influential Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines was set to discuss the issue sometime this week, Church sources said, highlighting the gravity of the division in the movement established in the Philippines in 1981 and now has more than one million members in 160 countries.

Meloto, 57, whose work in Gawad Kalinga won for him and his organization the Ramon Magsaysay Award -- Asia’s version of the Nobel Prize -- for community leadership in 2006, spoke to the Philippine Daily Inquirer on Saturday, a week after CfC co-founder Frank Padilla announced his breakaway.

Padilla has formed the Restoration Movement, also called the Easter Group, according to a letter circulated in the United States by Ricky Cuenca, US coordinator of CfC, one of the world’s largest Catholic lay organizations.

“Couples for Christ and Gawad Kalinga are very much together. Gawad Kalinga remains a project of the Couples for Christ,” said Meloto, who stepped aside as executive director of GK in February purportedly to become an international ambassador of goodwill.

The February announcement then said GK was going global to improve the lives of the countless poor in other countries and that Meloto was to join Padilla, who also was GK chair, in the initiative.

“Walang iwanan (Nobody leaves),” Meloto then said.

Padilla in February resigned as member of the CfC council, the organization’s governing body, along with two other officials, according to the Cuenca report.

source: The Philippine Daily Inquirer

Mystery shrouds the death of a 20-year-old graduating student of the University of the Philippines in Diliman, Quezon City, who was rushed to a hospital after midnight Monday where he was declared dead on arrival.

Hours later, the mother of Chris Anthony Mendez, a public administration student who was the representative of his collegeâ€"the National College of Public Administration and Governance (NCPAG)â€"to the UP Student Council, said she received a phone call from someone who identified herself as her son’s landlady.

Cristina, who lives in Tiaong, Quezon province, said her first thought was that someone was playing a prank on her. According to the caller, Mendez had died after he was brought to the Veterans Memorial Hospital and his body was at the St. Peter’s Memorial Chapels on Quezon Avenue.

When she arrived at the funeral home yesterday morning, Cristina saw her son with bruises all over his body, particularly on the back of his arms and thighs.

An official of the NCPAG, who requested anonymity because he was not authorized to speak to media, told the Inquirer that they suspected Mendez was a victim of hazing.

According to the statement of Jonathan Garduce, the guard on duty when the victim was brought to the hospital, Mendez was taken to the facility at 1:08 a.m. Monday by a man who introduced himself as Dr. Francisco Cruz. Cruz was on board a white Toyota Innova with license plate ZXB 393. He was accompanied by people riding in two other vehicles: a Nissan Trooper (WGL 515) and an Isuzu van (XAS 548).

According to the guard, Cruz and his companions left hurriedly after giving the hospital staff information about Mendez, who looked pale and unresponsive.

source: The Philippine Daily Inquirer

The Philippine Government has called on Australia to modify its 457 skilled visa scheme after the Herald (newspaper) exposed the illegal treatment of immigrants, including two Filipinos who died in workplace accidents.

But the Immigration Minister, Kevin Andrews, defended the visas yesterday and insisted the workers could freely complain about their employment conditions - a claim directly contradicted by a metal fabricator who came forward to say his boss threatened to break his legs and send him "back to India" when he asked for overtime pay.

Mohammed Nayeem, 45, from Singapore, told the Herald he had been forced to work 50-hour weeks but only paid for 38, and had $100 a week deducted to share a two-bedroom converted office space with five other workers while working at a construction firm in western Sydney.

source: www.smh.com.au

American Idol sensation Elliott Yamin is coming to Manila as part of his Asian tour.

Known for his gritty, raw voice, this well-loved tenor placed third in the finals of the fifth season won by Taylor Hicks. Critic Simon Cowell described Yamin as “potentially the best male vocalist in the history of American Idol.”

Born in Los Angeles, Yamin admits that he has never received formal training in musicâ€"“I’m karaoke-trained!” One year after the end of American Idol’s fifth season, Yamin had released his first self-titled album. His CD is the kind that is genuinely moving, grooving, touching and comforting and he will be in all the Ayala Malls to promote the album.

Catch Elliott Yamin at the TriNoma on September 21, Glorietta on September 22, Market! Market! on September 23, Ayala Center Cebu on September 26 and Alabang Town Center on September 28.

source: The Manila Times

Widows and women whose marriages have been annulled or dissolved should not be punished for marrying again or giving birth within 301 days of their husband’s death or of the annulment and dissolution of their marriage, Senator Richard Gordon said.

A similar bill was filed at the House of Representatives by Congressman Guillermo Cua early this month.

This law against women as contained in the Crime of Premature Marriages in Article 351 of the Revised Penal Code will be repealed if Senate Bill 290 will be passed, said Gordon.

The present law penalizes the guilty with arresto mayor (six months and one day to six years) and a fine not exceeding P500.

“The purpose of the law in punishing premature marriages is to prevent doubtful paternity. It is intended to prevent confusion in connection with paternity and filiation, inasmuch as the widow might have conceived and become pregnant by her late husband or a woman might have conceived and become pregnant by her former husband in a previously annulled or dissolved marriage,” according to the explanatory note of the bill.

source: The Philippine Daily Inquirer

Marsh Consulting Services of Denville has agreed to pay $130,678 in back wages to four foreign workers after the U.S. Department of Labor found the company in violation of the Immigration and Nationality Act.

The workers were recruited from the Philippines to work on a project at M&M Mars in Hackettstown, under the act's H-1B visa program.

An investigation conducted by the department's Wage and Hour Division found that from April 2004 through January 2007, the workers were not paid the required wage rate when Marsh Consulting Services lost its M&M Mars contract and the workers had to find employment elsewhere.

source: dailyrecord.com

Filipino Randy Suico kayoed tough Japanese challenger Koji Samejima in the 8th round to keep his Oriental Pacific Boxing Federation (OPBF) lightweight crown in the main event of "The Battle for Supremacy" held moments ago at the Mall of Asia in Pasay City, Philippines.

The 27-year-old Suico initially made a punching bag out of Samejima in the first two rounds by hitting the Japanese with right straights to the face and several body shots.

Samejima became active starting in the third round by using his jabs in stalling Suico's attacks.

Suico continued to dominate a backtracking Samejima although the Japanese opened up a cut on the Filipino's left eyelid with a stiff left jab.

A strong left hook to the chest by Suico knocks Samejima down in the 6th round. Samejima recovered from the fall but was later on tagged by Suico with a left hook that resulted in a cut on the Japanese's left eyelid.

Suico worked on the cut, strafing Samejima with left jabs starting in the 7th round. Samejima fought gallantly middle of the round by unleashing several two-punch combos, missing most of them.

With less than a minute remaining in the 8th round Suico unleashed a strong right straight, using a left jab as a set-up, flooring Samejima flat on his back.

source: fightnews.com

Korean investors in the Philippines have opened and are ready to open new partnerships with Filipino companies and absorb thousands of professionals and skilled workers here and in Korea.

This was the core message delivered by Korean Chamber of Commerce Philippines president Jae J. Jang in pitching for the building of an East Asian Economic Community (EAEC) during an international forum on the role of business in the economic integration of East Asia in a Makati City hotel recently.

The new investment opportunities, Jang said, are in heavy industries, tourism, food and beverages, English teaching centers, retirement villages and in skilled manpower.

He mentioned the fact that Korea was the top foreign direct investor in the Philippines last year following the setting up of ship-building and ship repair facilities by one of its giant ship building corporations, Hanjin Shipbuilding Co. at the Subic Freeport.

source: Sun Star Daily Cebu

Onic, it seems that your world out there is quite colorful. 

By Jhunnex Napallacan
Philippine Daily Inquirer

Praise was heaped on Bohol police operatives and private security guards “for a job well done” in stopping robbery gang leader Casimiro “Meloy” Garcia and three others who were arrested last Tuesday after the robbery of the Bank of Commerce in Tagbilaran City.

Bankers and businessmen in Cebu and Bohol were relieved.

Chief Supt. Silverio Alarcio Jr., Central Visayas police director, said promotions would likely follow.
“I commend the team that collared Meloy Garcia and the others,” said Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia, who chairs the Regional Peace and Order Council,“especially that Meloy was the leader of several heists conducted in Cebu as well as Bohol.”

But police officials said the public should remain vigilant because other members of the gang were still at large.

“We must account for all members of the group and find out who is behind them,” said Alarcio in an interview.

He was asked if the robbery gang was busted following Tuesday’s arrest of Garcia, who was found in Dumaluan Beach Resort in Panglao Island after a shootout with security guards of the Bank of Commerce. The arrested suspects are all young men.

Garcia is 24 years old. Cresencio Reguya, whose gunshot wounds will leave him paralyzed for life, is 27. Gelvin Nuez is 19.

Police also took into custody a cousin of Garcia, Sofronio Remoreras, who drove the V-hire van used as a getaway vehicle to the beach resort in Panglao island.