MikeLigalig.com

By Kit Bagaipo
The Bohol Chronicle

The simmering animosity of two longtime allies finally exploded as Gov. Erico Aumentado and Second District Rep. Roberto Cajes lashed at each other with accusations of corruption and collusion with contractors to clinch local projects.

Aumentado took on the solon during his weekly media forum, "The Governor
Reports" on Friday, blasting Cajes for allegedly benefiting from infrastructure projects through "favored contractors".

Cajes shot back yesterday challenging the governor to cull records from the Commission on Audit (COA) and compare how much of congressional "pork barrel" allocations were actually utilized and poured into the second district during each of their three terms as congressman.

Cajes unleashed his own offensive by citing the governor's failure to implement decent infrastructure projects in his nine years as congressman. "Aumentado is besieged with accusations of corruption since he was a congressman and up to this time that he is governor. No matter how hard he tries to project himself as a serious crusader against graft, people won't believe him," Cajes stressed.

Highly-placed sources revealed to the Chronicle that there have been at least two reconciliatory meetings brokered by the administration party's national executive committee between Aumentado and Cajes in Manila.

But the recent exchange of tirades between the governor and the solon may have flushed out chances of unifying once again the province's Lakas-Kampi-CMD stalwarts, the sources said.

The word war was triggered when Cajes declared in an interview over "Inyong Alagad" program of Station dyRD that the reinstatement of the governor's Certificate of Nomination and Acceptance (Cona) as Lakas-Kampi official congressional bet in the second district was just a "consuelo de bobo".

WIPE OUT CORRUPTION

Aumentado is projecting his bid to reclaim his old Congress seat as "a crusade to wipe out widespread corruption" prevailing in the second district.

The governor accused Cajes of giving preference to non-Boholano contractors to the dismay of the Bohol Builders and Contractors Association.

Aumentado said local contractors met with him Thursday to air their sentiments and that they find bids being rigged in favor of contractors outside Bohol.
        
"Local builders feel they are discriminated over non-local bidders no matter how qualified they are to undertake the projects in the district even if they strictly adhere to requirements of the bidding process," the governor bared.

He divulged that "the most influential official in the second district" is "using his influence" to corner most of the contracts for bidders not from Bohol.

Local builders purportedly told the governor that contractors from Cebu and Leyte are favored despite having observed their slow operations.

Aumentado likewise denounced the congressman's alleged connection to a "dummy-contractor" which has been awarded infrastructure projects in the district.

"This is shameful and I could not turn my back on something that has to be stopped.

My candidacy is also a campaign to stomp out corruption in the second district," he stressed.

WHO'S CORRUPT?

Cajes turned the tables on Aumentado saying it was the latter who brought in foreign contractors.

"He is accusing me now of what he was doing then. Who invited Hanjin and other Korean and Chinese contractors here?" Cajes asked.

The solon said the present situation is more favorable to local builders who can compete freely in bidding for projects, Cajes added.

Cajes explained that congressmen could not control the bidding process as it is open and competitive.

Reacting to the governor's insinuation of a "dummy contractor" that is closely associated to the solon, Cajes retorted that the governor knows that the owner of the batching plant being alluded to, is the latter's "kumpare".

"In fact, many people know the governor himself has given favors to this 'kumpare' by awarding him several projects. You have more reason to believe that he may be the co-owner of that batching plant, and just laying the blame on me," Cajes said.

ASPHALT OVER CEMENT

The governor accused Cajes of wasting government funds by causing the implementation of a P10-million road rehabilitation project in Talibon by overlaying asphalt over a concrete road that is still in good condition.

"Sourced out of the Motor Vehicle User's Charge (MVUC), the P10-million funding is shamefully wasted," Aumentado stressed.

He added that the asphalt overlay only covered 1,350 meters with a 6.10 meter width, and yet it costs P10-million.

"I have been informed that the asphalt is of substandard quality and awarded to a contractor that has no Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)," Aumentado disclosed.

"Why award it to a contractor that has not complied with government regulations? This project reeks of under the table arrangements," he added.

NATIONAL FUND

But Cajes shrugged off the issue saying the asphalt overlay is a national highway maintenance project and not sourced out of his PDAF (Priority Development
Assistance Fund).

"Only DPWH can decide on what to do with that MVUC funding. My PDAF are utilized for barangay and municipal projects," he justified.

According to the solon, he was responsible for the re-blocking of portions of the governor's circumferential road project out of his PDAF.

UNEQUAL DISTRIBUTION

Aumentado presented to media farm-to-market road projects funded by the Department of Agriculture (DA) for the whole year of 2009 intended for the second district.

A total of 43 road rehabilitation and construction projects all went to the town of Trinidad, the hometown of Cajes.

"Trinidad is not the second district, but all farm-to-market road projects under the DA went to that single town," he pointed out.

The governor also disclosed that provincial environment and natural resources officer (PENRO) Nestor Canda was allegedly "pressured" by Cajes to implement a P15-million upland development project funded by the DENR to the town of Trinidad.

However, Canda refused as the amount was intended to be distributed in the entire province and not just for one town, according to the governor.

CAJES STRIKES BACK

Defending himself against the allegation, Cajes said that if the governor believes he has done something illegal, then he should file a formal complaint in the proper forum.

"Nobody has ever sought an investigation against me until now that I am going to end my full three terms," Cajes said.

"I challenge him to account for his pork barrel funds and where it ended up as we do not see major projects during his three terms as the congressman of the second district," Cajes said.

The key is to choose "low density" foods, which means foods that allow you to eat a larger portion sizes but that is lower in calories. These foods, including many fruits and vegetables, tend to contain more water and fiber. Try starting your meal with a low-density salad or soup (just watch the dressings and sodium) to help fill you up, so you eat less of your entrée.

Some substitution ideas are:

Instead of a Starbucks Grande Cafe Late (190 cals), choose a 16oz Coffee or Tea (5 cals) and save 185 calories

Instead of  a Glazed Doghnut (239 cals) , choose an apple (72 cals) and save 135 calories
Instead of a bag of corn chips (441 cals), choose 2 large carrots with 2 tbsp hummus (138 cals) and save 318 calories

Instead of pancakes with butter and syrup (520 cals), choose 1 cup cooked oats (166 cals) and save 354 calories. source: stripthatfat.com

So, what type of exercises can you do to increase your daily calorie limit? Here are just a few ideas:

    * Clean the house (burns 160 calories/hr)
    * Golf (burns 180 calories/hr)
    * Garden (burns 250 calories/hr)
    * Walk (burns 280 calories/hr)
    * Play tennis (burns 290 calories/hr)
    * Go skating (burns 420 calories/hr)
    * Bike (burns 450 calories/hr)
    * Swim (burns 500 calories/hr)
    * Cross Country Ski (burns 500 calories/hr)
    * Hike (burns 500 calories/hr)
    * Do Step Aerobics (burns 550 calories/hr)
    * Play squash (burns 650 calories/hr)
    * Jump rope (burns 700 calories/hr)
    * Go for a run (burns 700 calories/hr)

bolingitboy, wala may kontra si Arthur Yap sa 3rd district. According to rumors, napalit man daw ang mga Jala. Katuohan-dili, pero tuo nalang aron madali, natingala ang mga tawo ngano ang usa ka karaang politiko mikakak sa pag-abot ni Yap. Seguro adunay mga cashabutan.

By the Bohol Chronicle

The rivalry between two mayoralty candidates in Carmen deepens as both camps threw accusations that have encroached into their personal lives.

Reelectionist Mayor Manuel Molina and his challenger Conchita Toribio both made it big in the nation's capital by establishing their own businesses, but later wanting to go back to their roots and serve the constituents of Carmen.

Mayor Molina yesterday challenged his election opponent to answer the issues concerning her "bigamous marriage" instead of launching an attack against his company.

According to Molina, Toribio should answer directly and explain to the people of said town her true marital status, bigamous marriage and her material representation on her Certificate of Candidacy (CoC), instead of attacking him and his own marital status.

But Toribio retorted saying her life is an open book. "I have nothing to hide and be ashamed of, be it regarding my marriage or my dealings in business," Toribio told the Chronicle.

In his petition for disqualification filed at the Comelec Manila against Toribio, the mayor alleged that his rival is hiding under the family name of her second husband to evade arrest as she has three pending warrants of arrest resulting from cases of estafa and violations of the anti-bouncing check law.

Last week, the lady mayoralty aspirant bared Molina's "first wife" is ready to "bare all" during the campaign period to refute the incumbent mayor's claims that he has annulled his marriage with his first wife.

Toribio disclosed some former employees in Molina's company will be suing the mayor after they found out that their monthly deductions for SSS contributions were never remitted.

The mayor however said, Toribio "exaggerated" the SSS contribution issue against his company.

"It is absolutely not true that employees are due to file a case against me," Molina asserted.
         

YWhat took place, he said, "was only some sort of a miscommunication between my company and the personnel of the SSS with respect to the correct data of employees".

Molina explained that at present, the problem had already been resolved and the SSS contribution is already paid and accepted by the SSS.

According to Molina, the marriage of Toribio with Zosimo G. Ordoñez on May 14, 1978 is not null and void.

In her explanation, Toribio said that such marriage is null and void per se because she was only 17 years of age at the time.

"Toribio is lying to the people because at 17, in the year 1978 at the time of her marriage with Ordoñez, she was legally allowed under the New Civil Code to enter into marriage" Molina said.

It is only in 1988 upon the effectivity of the Family Code that the marriageable age was changed to 18, he added.

Consequently, Molina argued, the second marriage of Toribio with Feancisco S. delos Reyes on January 8, 2002 without first obtaining a court order declaring her first marriage with Ordoñez null and void, is bigamous.

"Toribio is not only criminally liable for bigamy but also for Falsification of Public Document for having declared as single when she applied for marriage license to enter into marriage with Reyes on January 8, 2002 in San Juan City, "Molina added. "Bigamy and Falsification of Public Document are public crimes upon which anybody can file complaints against Toribio not necessarily her husband Ordoñez," Molina warned.

Molina said, he is not intimidated by the threat of Toribio that his first wife will campaign against him in his bid for reelection for an alleged bigamy. That issue had been known already when he ran for the first time as Mayor of Carmen in 2007, he said.

"Before entering into my second marriage with my present wife, I had obtained a declaration of nullity of my first marriage." Molina said.

"The papers are with my wife and anyone may request for a photocopy," the mayor dared.

POLITICAL HARASSMENT

Called to comment on Molina's statement, Toribio said the mayor's camp is resorting to "political harassment" after she got a good following during her consultations in the barangays.

"Molina sees that his reelection bid is seriously threatened. I feel sorry for him that he is more interested in my past life when I am more interested in serving the people of Carmen," she said.

Supporting her allegations regarding former employees of the mayor who will be filing a case for non remittance of their SSS contributions, Toribio said they will surface in due time.

"With regards my first marriage, I consider it a premature marriage. If there are legal questions, my lawyer can handle that," she added.

On the issue of several pending cases of estafa and violations of the bouncing check law against her, Toribio said these were already settled.

"I would not have this freedom to move around, presenting myself as a mayoralty candidate if warrants for my arrest are out," she said.

Toribio disclosed that last week, two people were murdered in Carmen and until now, the case remains unsolved.

While police and military assigned in the town are on a manhunt, Toribio said, "The mayor is out of town for several days already. In fact, he is not in Bohol ".

Anti-reclamation mounts protest
by Bohol Chronicle

Fishermen and villagers opposed to the ambitious plan to reclaim some 500-hectares off Panglao Bay bonded together to mount a strong protest against the multi-billion proposed reclamation project in the tourists' haven of Panglao.

Concerns raised by oppositors to the project have remained muted until the group organized into Panglaoanons Against Reclamation (PARE) last week.

"There is no need to add artificial islets through reclamation in Panglao. More than losing its stature as a renowned natural tourist attraction, hundreds of marine species found in the proposed reclamation site will be destroyed," former Panglao Mayor Doloreich Dumaluan said stressing he has no political agenda since he is not even running for any position in the coming polls.

Two proponents have signified interest in the reclamation project aiming to convert a huge portion of Panglao Bay into hectares of prime land that will become a center of commerce, resorts and coastal tourism activities.

If the project pushes through, it would be the biggest offshore reclamation in the country that would reportedly compare with world-class developments that are drawing tourists.

Of the two proponents, one is entering into a joint venture with the provincial government to organize a consortium of giant and reputable developers.

With the May elections drawing near, the proposal promises to be a hot issue in Panglao among reelectionist Mayor Benedicto Alcala and three other aspirants for the town's top post.

MARINE SPECIES

An improvement to his opposition to the Panglao Bohol International Airport Development Project, Dumaluan cited marine researches showing the rich biodiversity around Panglao Island , including the planned site.

Project proponents have identified Panglao Bay as an ideal site for the reclamation since there are no marine sanctuaries in the area and its maximum water depth reaches only 0.4 meters during high tide.

Dumaluan however disagrees saying Panglao Island itself is considered as a center of biodiversity.

In 2007, a marine research team has found up to 250 new species of crustacean and 2,500 previously unknown species of mollusk around the island, the former mayor noted.

The team - composed of 80 scientists, technicians, students and volunteers from 19 countries - also gathered specimens previously regarded as rare to very rare, including those previously thought not to exist in the Philippines.

The discoveries are considered the most comprehensive survey of deep-sea invertebrates in the tropics.

The new discoveries were the product of the Panglao Marine Biodiversity Project, the most comprehensive survey of deep-sea invertebrates in the tropics conducted from 2004 to 2005.
         
The former mayor cited that holotypes of the rare and new species have found its way to the Philippine National Museum to be available to scientists worldwide.

"Scientists from other countries said that Panglao alone is higher in diversity compared to Japan and the Mediterranean ," he added.

Species found during the survey include crustacean - a group that includes crayfish, crabs, lobsters and shrimps - and some hundreds of species of mollusks.

MORE DETAILED STUDY

One of the proponents negotiating with the provincial government for a joint venture undertaking, Oasis Leisure Islands Development Inc. (OLIDI), however said that they will still come out with a detailed mapping of the proposed project site.

Norris Oculam, OLIDI president, explained to the Chronicle that issues raised by environmental groups and so-called oppositors are premature.

"We have learned that the other proponent already conducted boring tests in the area even without clearance from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), but as far as our group is concerned, we still have to make consultations with stakeholders," he said.

Oculam said, after the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) authorized last week Gov. Erico Aumentado to enter into negotiations for a joint venture, their next step will be the environmental and social study.

"This will be our basis if the proposal is 'a go or no go', but right now, everything is in the drawing board," he explained.

He added that the public should not be prejudiced with sweeping statements of self-styled environmentalists regarding possible destruction the project would inflict on marine life in the area.

Oculam's group, backed by biologists and marine scientists, will map out and survey every single square meter of the area to obtain the real dimensions about its marine life.

"We have to see if there is actually biodiversity in the proposed site, identify the species, before making judgments. Right now, what we have heard so far from oppositors are highly speculative and doubtful."

Oculam said the determinant factor is the outcome of the environmental study and its social acceptability.

GOVERNOR'S NOD

Gov. Erico Aumentado last friday vowed he will not allow any environmental violation of the project even as reports said that it is the governor who is bullish of the proposed reclamation project,.

In fact, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan has issued authority for the governor to discuss matters with the project proponent,

The SP action met strong criticims from the public sensing a "done deal" on the project which the governor himself obviously showed keen interest and support.

The proposed reclamation which is perceived as potential environmental destruction particularly to the marine resources is expected to become a political issue against Gov. Aumentado who is running for congressman in the 2nd district after serving as governor for three terms.

'Tardy' lawmakers
delay SP sessions
By KIT BAGAIPO
Bohol Chronicle    

The Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) yesterday again failed to convene on time for its regular session as some board members continue to be either tardy or absent.

For quite some time now, the provincial board has been besieged by tardiness and absenteeism among lawmakers causing its failure to reach a quorum and for sessions to formally commence on time.

Yesterday, in its first session for the year 2010, legislative staff and mediamen who cover the weekly assembly of the provincial lawmaking body could only wait in silent frustration as Vice Gov. Julius Caesar Herrera called a pre-conference with board members who were present minutes before 12 noon.

Legislative aides constantly monitoring if a quorum could be reached for the regular session said "some board members could not report punctually".

"Old bad habits are simply hard to break," said one SP staff who observed the perennial delays in holding sessions. Although Vice Gov. Herrera reported at his office on time (9 a.m.), he could not call the usual pre-conference meeting prior to the session proper due to the absence of several board members.
         
Some board members were already at the Capitol compound but were attending to appointments with constituents who flocked the legislative offices yesterday.

Even the office of the vice governor was packed with visitors who were waiting to seek audience with Herrera.

With a few months to go before the May 2010 Elections, tardiness and absences is expected to plague SP sessions with four board members running for mayor in their respective hometowns.

The issue of tardiness had been the object of a resolution adopted by the SP on July 2007, as Herrera was obviously irked by late comers among his colleagues. The SP had been the subject of attacks when its sessions, which supposedly starts at 9 a.m.

to 10 a.m., are delayed and usually held at 11 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

In an effort to impose discipline among tardy lawmakers, the SP resolution which in effect changed its House Rules slapped fines of P500 for members who come late on session days after the roll call is made.

However, the continued frequent tardiness and absences of some members indicate that the resolution seeking to apply sanctions against its members is not being enforced.

"Clearly, the sessions are purposely delayed to accommodate board members who still come late," said an SP staff who refused to be identified.

Plunder vs. Yap; solon denies
By KIT BAGAIPO
Bohol Chronicle

Two partylist solons and a militant fisherfolk group made true its threat against Secretary Arthur Yap as it filed plunder raps against him, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and six others in relation to the alleged overpriced procurement of ice-making machines under the principle of command responsibility.

However, Sec. Yap, who is unchallenged in his bid for Bohol 's third district congressional seat, debunked the charges as "pure harassment" saying he had "no direct participation in whatever capacity" over the purchase which was handled by the National Agribusiness Corporation (Nabcor).

Yap told the Chronicle the charges filed against him is just a publicity stunt fabricated by the militant group who are seeking media mileage to obtain votes needed to clinch sectoral seats in Congress.
   
The two main complainants of the plunder complaint filed at the Ombudsman on the first working day of 2010 are Anakpawis Partylist Representatives Rafael Mariano and Joel Maglunsod and Pambansang Lakas ng mga Mamalakaya ng Pilipinas (Pamalakaya) chair Fernando Hicap and vice chair Salvador France.
   
Pamalakaya, which provided a copy of its complaint to the Chronicle yesterday, said Pres. Arroyo and Sec. Yap should be held liable for the Department of Agriculture's procurement of the ice-making machines.

It claimed that in September 2009, Integrated Refrigeration System and Services was awarded a contract to supply 98 ice-making units at P4.6 million a unit-about P2.3 million higher than the prevailing industry price.

Yap dismissed the allegations saying the Nabcor is distinct and separate from the DA.

He said the Nabcor is a government owned and controlled corporation with its own officers and board of directors who handle transactions such as the acquisition of the refrigeration equipment.

The agriculture boss and Lakas-Kampi CMD candidate for congressman in the third district said he is optimistic the Ombudsman will drop the charges against him. Other than the absence of his participation in the purchase, the process went through an open competitive bidding, as explained by Nabcor officials.

In an interview with radio station dyRD, Nabcor spokesperson Atty. Kathyrin Pioquinto pointed out that Yap was not even part of the bidding for the 98 ice-making machines which the militant groups alleged to be overpriced by P2.3 million each.

Pioquinto challenged the Pamalakaya to present its evidence in dragging the name of Yap and that of the President in the application of the principle of command responsibility.

Rep. Cajes hits malicious news
on road mishap
By KIT BAGAIPO
Bohol Chronicle   

Second District Representative Roberto Cajes was the "unfortunate target of incorrect stories" of a road accident involving a sports utility vehicle
incidentally registered to his daughter.

A story published last Sunday (not in the Chronicle) reported that the incumbent congressman and mayoralty candidate of Trinidad town survived a car crash in barangay Oy, Loboc after his driver lost control of the steering wheel.

The report continued that Rep. Cajes suffered contusions and limped as he got out of the wrecked vehicle after it smashed onto an electric post Friday last week.

The Chronicle reported that the vehicle, which was in fact registered to Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) national president Jane Censoria Cajes, the solon's daughter, was driven by one of the family's driver together with one of the congressman's police escorts who were on their way to Trinidad.

The police security detail was identified as PO2 Dante del Rosario Jr. who escaped unhurt from the road mishap. The solon's driver, Richard Cerio however suffered injuries and was rushed to a hospital.
         
A furious Rep. Cajes yesterday challenged those who "concocted the malicious stories to a tennis match, a feat which any injured person could not do".

"I am in Trinidad right now, and anybody who has doubts can see for themselves whether I am injured or not," the solon remarked.

A Boholano blog-site over the internet also reported the incident which said that the congressman was critically injured and airlifted to a hospital in Cebu City. The website likewise revealed that several high-powered firearms were recovered from the wrecked vehicle of Cajes.

Rep. Cajes instead expressed gratitude to the Chronicle for reporting fairly on the incident.

Based on the account of PO2 Del Rosario, they were on the way to Trinidad town from Tagbilaran City when the driver lost control of the steering wheel after he tried to avoid collision with another vehicle.

Del Rosario said the road was narrow and slippery which made it hard for the driver to maneuver away from the other vehicle.

They rammed into an electrical post at the roadside wrecking the SUV.

DENR asked:check tarsiers
By KIT BAGAIPO
Bohol Chronicle

The continued inaction of government authorities on the commercial display of the Tarsiers again caught public attention as the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is urged to review wildlife registration certificates issued to tourism establishments here.

As new reports surface on the maltreatment of caged and captive tarsiers, Environmental Legal Assistance Center (Elac) executive director Raul Barbarona called on the DENR to review all certificates of wildlife farm permits it issued to business establishments especially in the towns of Loboc and Loay.
   
"Since the issuance of the permits is legally binding on the part of the permittees, then there should be a legal process for its revocation based on documented violations," Barbarona said.

The DENR should likewise check whether these establishments holding captive tarsiers are observing the guidelines contained in the DENR certifications, such as their technicalcapabilities to hold captive the threatened species. After an incident occurred between a tourist and a Cebu-based tour guide who allowed his guests to poke and force-feed the tarsiers in one establishment in Loboc, the issue regarding the permittees' capability to hold the tarsiers in its possession has died down without any recommendations coming from the DENR.
         
Barbarona received reports that tourists visiting tarsier viewing sites in Loboc continue to hold the tiny species and even use camera flash when taking pictures within a close distance from the tarsiers.

According to Barbarona, instead of correcting and monitoring these reported incidents, "the DENR seems to be paying no attention on this unrestrained abuse."

For his part, provincial board member Alfonso Damalerio II, principal author of an ordinance prohibiting the display of tarsiers outside its natural habitat, said the implementation of the provincial measure is already an executive prerogative.

There have been reports that the ordinance remains inutile as the executive has not crafted its implementing rules and regulations.

Barbarona said, the provincial government should check whether the DENR has issued new wildlife farm permits and ensure that compliance with the permit's guidelines is followed.

Agence France Presse: Manny Pacquiao says he is ready to move on and now plans to take a welterweight title fight against Joshua Clottey in March instead of facing Floyd Mayweather.

Pacquiao's promoter Bob Arum told Sports Illustrated that after six weeks of failed negotiations Mayweather is no longer on Pacquiao's radar screen and that the Filipino boxer now has a tentative agreement to fight Clottey.

SI.com reported Friday that Pacquiao and ex-champ Clottey would meet in a World Boxing Organization welterweight title fight on March 13 possibly at Cowboy Stadium in Dallas, Texas.

"They are just trying to get under Manny's skin," Arum told SI.com of Mayweather's camp. "It serves no purpose to aggravate Manny Pacquiao.

"This is beyond stupid. We are not negotiating with these punks anymore."

But Mayweather's camp isn't ready to throw in the towel. Golden Boy Promotions chief executive Richard Schaefer has said he still feels one of the richest fights in boxing history can be saved.

By Mike Rudin
The Conspiracy Files

Osama Bin Laden died eight years ago during the battle for Tora Bora in Afghanistan, either from a US bomb or from a serious kidney disease.

Or so the conspiracy theory goes.

The theory that has developed on the web since 9/11 is that US intelligence services are manufacturing the Bin Laden statements to create an evil bogeyman, to justify the so-called war on terror in Afghanistan, Iraq and back at home.

So is the world's most wanted man still alive?

For a decade, Osama bin Laden has managed to evade the world's superpower and the biggest manhunt in history.

Bruce Riedel, who chaired President Barack Obama's Afghanistan/Pakistan policy review, and who has seen the intelligence on Bin Laden, says the trail has not so much gone cold as "frozen over".

"We don't have a clue where he is," he says.

In the absence of any concrete intelligence, Bin Laden has become shrouded in myth and rumour.

'Certainly fake'

Numerous audio and video statements purporting to be from Bin Laden have been released, but their authenticity has been continually questioned.

The veracity of all of the videos is questioned by David Ray Griffin, a former theology professor and member of the 9/11 Truth Movement, which also questions mainstream accounts of the attack on the World Trade Centre.

"None of them can be proven to be authentic," he says. "At least three of them can be shown to be almost certainly fake.

"And if somebody is faking Bin Laden videos, then that leads to the suspicion that all the videos and audio tapes have been faked."

Acer is recalling six models of laptops after reports of short circuits that could cause users to get burned, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission said.

A wire that goes to the internal microphone can overheat. The wire runs under the area where users would rest their palms.

About 22,000 of the Chinese-made computers are being recalled. They are in Acer's Aspire line, have 13.3-inch screens and the following model numbers: AS3410, AS3410T, AS3810T, AS3810TG, AS3810TZ and AS3810TZG. They were sold from June-October 2009 for $650-$1,150.

Acer told the CPSC the company had heard from three laptop users whose cases started to melt. No injuries were reported.

Consumers are asked to stop using the laptops and contact Acer. If the laptop is subject to the recall, the company will provide a free repair. - walletpop.com

GREAT NEWS if you want to live and work in the USA this year.

85,000 people from all over the world will obtain H1B visas to start a new life in the USA, this year.

Find out how thousands are finding H1B jobs and sponsorship - Go Here

» There's a bright future ahead if you want a USA work visa / permit
» The H1B visa filing period opens very soon - the demand is still high
» When is the best time to start ?
» The 2 must-know H1B challenges
» Find out which type of work visa is best for you
» How to save over 50% off H1B services

There's a bright future for International Professionals and students who want to live and work in America this year.

85,000 H1B work visas / permits
+ 140,000 Green Cards
+ 66,000 H2B visas are available for 2009 (read below for details)

Obtaining a USA work visa is challenging and competitive...

But.... thousands of people from all over the world - will succeed

The Department of Justice filed double murder charges Thursday against a Philippine opposition senator who claims the case is meant to punish him for his criticism of the president.

Government prosecutors charged Senator Panfilo Lacson, a former national police chief, with the November 2000 killings of publicist Salvador "Bubby" Dacer and his driver, Emmanuel Corbito.

Senior State Prosecutor Peter Ong said the charges were based on physical evidence as well as witness testimony, including that of a former police officer who allegedly heard Lacson give the order to kill the two. If convicted, Lacson could face life in prison.

Lacson's lawyers said the case was politically motivated and he was going to be indicted "at any cost to silence him and to punish him for his exposes against the administration."

Lacson became one of President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo sharpest critics after he was forced to resign as Philippine National Police chief under former President Joseph Estrada when he was ousted in January 2001. Arroyo, then vice president, succeeded Estrada.

He was elected senator in May 2001 and was one of several candidates to run against Arroyo in the 2004 presidential election.

He exposed an alleged corruption-tainted $330 million broadband deal between the Arroyo administration and a Chinese company in 2007 and bribes allegedly received by Arroyo from illegal numbers game operators in 2005. - Phil Star

The Pope is celebrating the traditional Christmas Eve Mass, despite being knocked down by a woman at the start of the service in St Peter's Basilica.

The woman - who is believed to be mentally unstable - jumped the security barriers as the Pope entered the basilica, causing the pontiff to fall.

The Pope appeared to be unhurt and recovered to lead the mass.

The midnight service started two hours early because officials do not want the 82-year-old pontiff to get tired.

The Vatican spokesman said the decision to move the midnight Mass to 2200 (2100 GMT) was "to make Christmas a little less tiring for the Pope, who has many engagements".

Pope Benedict XVI earlier appeared briefly at nightfall at the window of his studio to light a candle in a sign of peace. - BBC

The social networking site, which connects old friends and allows users to make new ones online, is being blamed for an increasing number of marital breakdowns.

Divorce lawyers claim the explosion in the popularity of websites such as Facebook and Bebo is tempting to people to cheat on their partners.

Suspicious spouses have also used the websites to find evidence of flirting and even affairs which have led to divorce.

One law firm, which specialises in divorce, claimed almost one in five petitions they processed cited Facebook.

Mark Keenan, Managing Director of Divorce-Online said: "I had heard from my staff that there were a lot of people saying they had found out things about their partners on Facebook and I decided to see how prevalent it was I was really surprised to see 20 per cent of all the petitions containing references to Facebook.

"The most common reason seemed to be people having inappropriate sexual chats with people they were not supposed to."

Flirty emails and messages found on Facebook pages are increasingly being cited as evidence of unreasonable behaviour.

Computer firms have even cashed in by developing software allowing suspicious spouses to electronically spy on someone's online activities. - source: Telegraph.co.uk

What is Your New Year's Resolution for 2010?

Haven't heard of the company for a long time.

By JUNE S. BLANCO

BOHOL’s tax collection is top in Central Visayas for the third quarter of 2009

  This after OIC Region 7 Director Lorna Atega of the Department of Finance’ (DOF) Bureau of Local Government Finance (BLGF) congratulated Gov. Erico Aumentado for posting a 119.28 percent collection efficiency, besting Cebu, Oriental Negros and Siquijor provinces.

  In a letter with a matrix for his easy referral, Atega said Bohol collected P128,713,381.62 against the target of P107,908,919.20 in basic real property tax and Special Education Fund (SEF).

  She congratulated Aumentado for the high tax ratings that landed Cebu at second place only with an efficiency rating of 89.53 percent. Siquijor was a close third at 89.45 percent while Oriental Negros drew last at 87.45 percent.

  The four provinces maintained the same berths in the annual collection efficiency ratings although business-rich Cebu posted the highest actual collection at P169,965,425.90. Oriental Negros followed at P52,881,615.71 and Siquijor, P9,517,938.80.

  Cebu’s capital, Cebu City, edged out all the other 15 cities in the region with an actual total collection of P529,244,940.25 that earned it a 120.03 percent collection efficiency ranged against its 3rd quarter target of P440,916,416.80.

  Bohol’s capital, Tagbilaran, managed only the eighth place at 94.25 percent, with the same rank for its actual total collections of P32,836,113.90 for the quarter.

  Atega attributed Bohol’s achievement to “the commendable efforts of the offices of the Provincial Treasurer and Assessor â€" and to all local officials” in attaining the province’s revenue target under the Revenue Generation Program.

  In turn, Aumentado attributes the province’s success in the dedicated efforts of Provincial Treasurer Eustaquio Socorin and Provincial Assessor Edgardo Orig and their men.

  They have formed a tax campaign team, using jingles, skits and good old explanation to property owners why they should pay taxes. The explanation may be over the radio â€" or in the field.

  As such, the team spends much time outside of the office, but the efforts have apparently paid off.

Aumentado expressed elation over the development, especially that for the first time in the province’s history, its budget has breached the P1 billion mark.

The costly Filipino mañana habit
By Joe Espiritu

For almost a year, the Commission on Election scheduled the registering of new and transferee voters. Most of the time there were few registrants on any given day during that period. As the registration drew to a close, new voters came in droves overwhelming Comelec personnel with their numbers. Complaints were aired on the lack of the registration system. Despite the extended hours on the last day, there were those who were not able to register. Then the Supreme Court ordered that voters’ registration be extended a few days. The Automated Election System is in a verge of being derailed.

Comelec authorities had pronounced the systems acceptable after a test, which was made under the monitoring of competent authorities. That means that the prototype hardware; the machines, and software the instruction systems are working to produce the required result. What remains is the site test to pronounce the whole set up ready for the 2010 presidential elections. To prevent hackers’ access, the automated system is not to be installed until the last moment. Not being privy to the arrangement made by the Comelec and Smartmatic, as a software systems specialist, we can only conjecture how the arrangement was made. It would not be far from the usual practice.

When the Comelec started the automatic election project, they asked for proposals from qualified bidders. Naturally the bidders will first conduct a thorough survey, draw up a preliminary systems design and demonstrate how the system would work. If the management is convinced a contract is signed and the project starts. Then the management is presented a prototype and a performance test is conducted. If and when the kinks are ironed out and it runs according to the management specifications the installation phase of the project follows. After the installation and site test acceptance the contract is paid.

It is not as simple as that. The hardware or machines can be safeguarded by physical security. What are most vulnerable in automation or computerization are software, the programs â€" instructions to computers-, series of programs â€" the software systems and the records and files. Hackers, unscrupulous software specialists, try to manipulate or insert computer instructions either to disrupt the process or produce result, which will favor a person or group of persons. Systems engineers place program routines, which ask for codes or passwords before allowing the process to continue or granting access to protected or restricted files. Automation is a field of a never ending battle between the systems engineer and hacker. The best weapon of the systems engineer is time. Before a hacker cam crack the code. The codes are changed.

When a software system is created, the management draws up a series of specifications on how the software is going to work. The contractor confers with the management to be sure he understands the specification. A timeframe is set. The software is to be finished on time or else pay penalty for every day the project is unfinished. . However, after the software is finished, tested and accepted by the management, if there are any changes required, which was not covered the original specification, the management must pay an addition fee. Then the completion timetable is reset. The original Automated Election System starts another processing phase after the voters registration has officially ended. To extend registration may need changes in the software hence additional systems design and programming.

Perhaps the Smartmatic software system is open ended that it can accept minor revisions  and the contract allows one or two  minor revisions without paying addition fees. If the voters had just registered in the required time, imagine a registration period of around ten moths, there would have been no registration extension. The Automated election system may not be jeopardized. The mañana habit of the Filipinos would someday cause his downfall...

Written by Loy Palapos

      “Nobody from the mountain barangays of Guindulman, has ever been elected to the Sangguniang Bayan.” These were the words of Mr. Ruth Bersano Cahulogan (RBC) when I interviewed him last Monday. When I hinted at discrimination as the reason for the repudiation, he did not negate it, although he adhered to the belief that it is merely a question of acceptance. There could be some tint of condescension for “highlanders” spoused by some well-heeled personalities in the lowlands; but as far as Ruth Cahulogan is concerned, the up-trend is geared to acceptance.

      But there is no need to get depressed or be waylaid by this predicament. It is for the highlander to prove his worth, and Mr. Cahulogan has decided to be the first to try if a mountainer can now be a part of Guindulman’s lawmaking body. He has filed his certificate of candidacy as Councilor of the developing Municipality.

      Who is Ruth B. Cahulogan? I met him at my ICM Office last October when my staff and I were busy preparing for the 22nd Alturas Drum and Bugle Corps Showdown. He was the first Alumni Association President to consult with me in his school’s participation in the “Greatest Show in Town”. He studied at Mayuga, both in his elementary grades and high school. He is a Geological Engineer from the University of Bohol, where he was President of Student Council before graduation. Until today he is still with UB as a fourth year Law student.

        After College he worked as a Tax Mapper at the Municipal Assessor’s Office of his hometown. Then he went to Manila and Quezon City as Sr. Appraiser (EZAI and Hexagon Group of Companies). Back in Bohol, he ventured into radio broadcasting as a volunteer (“The Voice of Truth, DYTR), then was assigned Chairman of the LAKAS-KAMPI-CMD staff in Guindulman. Cahulogan presently works as a Legislative Researcher at the Office of the Vice Mayor.

      Involvement is Mr. Cahulogan’s passport to acceptance. A “highlander” becoming President of the UB Supreme Student Council is no ordinary feat. When he was elected President of the Mayuga National High School Alumni Associaton, he knew he was ready for another challenge. His efforts paid off. His Alma Mater’s contingent placed second in the November 22 competition, unprecedented for a mountain barangay.

LMP: In the last Alturas Drum and Bugle Corps Showdown, the Mayuga National High School made a very impressive performance, which we did not expect from a newcomer. And I learned, that one of the formidable factors was the help of the community and the teachers plus the alumni. As Alumni President of Mayuga National High School, why did you take upon yourself to be so deeply involved with the project?

RBC: Since childhood, I love to help, especially the school which made me a better person. When I was elected as the President of the MNHS Alumni Association, I learned the need of having a Drum Corps we can be proud of. I committed to the project. It’s for the sake of helping the youth, by taking them away from drugs.

LMP: When you speak about Alumni Association, you are speaking of not just one person, but a lot. How were you able to encourage the other alumni of Mayuga to help you in the project?

RBC: We did a lot of serious of meetings, then I told them that in order to encourage the students of Mayuga National High School, we, the alumni, should help them to pursue their goal of having a well-established Drum and Bugle Corps.

LMP: How is your relationship with the faculty of the school?

RBC: I am so very thankful to them because they are so good and nice, considering that the Alumni Association is separate from the Administration. However, there were times we didn’t agree with each other; but then we pursued with our common concerns and settled things out.

LMP: Is the Parents-Teacher Association also existing?

RBC: Yes, Sir.

LMP: Did this group help?

RBC: Yes, they did.

LMP: So, it was really a community endeavor?

RBC: Yes, Sir.

LMP: And congratulations, for it was a big success.

RBC: Thank you.

LMP: Are you joining the Showdown next year?

RBC: We had a meeting and decided that we will join.

LMP: And aim for the first place?

RBC: Yes, hopefully. It was never our expectation that we would win as the second placer considering that we are a newcomer and a neophyte to the Showdown.

LMP: Let’s talk about politics. How do you assess your Mayor?

RBC: Mayor Maria Fe Aniana Piezas, our Municipal Mayor, is development oriented.

LMP: What was her profession before politics?

RBC: She is a Doctor by profession.

LMP: A Doctor of Medicine?

RBC: Yes, sir.

LMP: Did she leave her profession in favor of politics?

RBC: As far as I know, Sir, she was able to retire from her profession in the States, and came back to serve Guindulman.

LMP: How do you find her as the Chief Executive of Guindulman?

RBC: She is absolutely good. After a couple of years, now we can see that Guindulman is one of the developing towns.

LMP: So, you would like to consider her as one success story of a Mayor.

RBC: Yes, Sir!

LMP: Now, let’s go the Provincial level. There are three aspirants for Governor: Chatto, Herrera and Montano. Of the three, whom do you think has an edge over the other?

RBC: In my own opinion Sir, I believe that Congressman Chatto and Vice Governor Herrera have the capability for the job of Governor.

LMP: Would it be a big distance between the two?

RBC: In my own assessment, not much. Just slightly!

LMP: How about Montano?

RBC: Montano?As far as I know, he’s a good actor; but then, in my personal opinion, I never saw him as a good leader who could lead the Boholanos.

LMP: But he is one of the best actors in the country?

RBC: As an actor, yes! But as a leader, there’s no sample yet.

LMP: Let’s go to the national level. If there is an election today, whom are you going to consider for the presidency?

RBC: First and foremost, I have two choices: Gibo and Noynoy. But if there is an election today, I prefer Noynoy Aquino to be the President of the Republic of the Philippines.

LMP: Why?

RBC:  Because he has no dirty record so far. He does not make himself controversial like others in Congress and he has a good background.

LMP: Is it because he is the son of Cory and Ninoy Aquino?

RBC: Yes. I was one of the supporters of the former President Cory Aquino and Ninoy Aquino and I believe that their son could be a President.

LMP: How about the other choice?

RBC: If ever I may not support Noynoy Aquino, I go for Gibo, considering his intelligence, knowledge and capability.

LMP: Do you believe that these assets are not possessed by the other candidates? Or would you say that Gibo has more of these than the others?

RBC: I agree that Gibo has more of these than the others.

LMP: So, you have heard that he is a bar topnotcher?

RBC: Yes! And it is one thing the others cannot be proud of.

LMP: What do you comment regarding political dynasty?

RBC: I’m personally against political dynasties because it doesn’t give others the chance to lead. Like in our Province, we have more than a million people. Don’t tell me the wisdom to lead is a monopoly of a few families. It seems that it restrict others of the chance to show their knowledge.

LMP: But then you have to understand that in election, it is not the capability that counts. It’s the money.

RBC: Yes, Sir! In the Philippines.

LMP: Even in Bohol. What can you do about it? The dynasties will still go on.

RBC: Because of money, and dynasties will remain if voters will vote depending on the money given by the candidates. The dynasties in Bohol will never cease because of the money given during campaign. Among the top Boholano candidates, only Governor Aumentado has no dysnasty.

LMP: Have you noticed that? Do you mean, comparatively, he’s much better than the rest?

RBC: On that ground, I agree with you, Sir. Since childhood, I admired him so much. He was one of the strivers at the Rafael Palma College (University of Bohol). And I was once a striver too. So we have something in common.

LMP: Let’s go to the development in Bohol. There are those who say that Bohol should concentrate in Tourism. Another sector said, Bohol should concentrate in Agriculture. As far as you are concerned, which is the priority? Agriculture or Tourism?

RBC: I believe it is tourism, Sir.

LMP:  Why?

RBC: Bohol is known as one of the best tourist destinations not only in the whole country but even outside Philippines. So, I believe that leaders should prioritize it. We have to capitalize on our natural wonders.

LMP: Should there be more investment in Tourism rather than Agriculture?

RBC: Not necessarily forgetting Agriculture. But we should concentrate on Tourism.

LMP: What are the tourist attractions of Guindulman, as far as you know?

RBC: As far as I know, we have nice white, sandy beaches.Our clean and green environment, since we are able to preserve their cleanliness and beauty.

LMP: Economically, how is Guindulman compared to other Municipalities in Bohol?

RBC: Guindulman is still a 4th class Municipality. But due to some projects that the present Administration has, such as the Public Market, they give additional opportunities to Guindulmanons.

LMP: Is this the Project of the current Mayor?

RBC: Yes, Sir. And it helps the Guindulmanons a lot.

LMP: How about Agriculture in Guindulman? Is it moving up or on a downtrend?

RBC: I believe it is upway, Sir.

LMP: What are the projects of the Local Government Unit, of the municipality?

RBC: We have some livelihood projects in the respective Barangays in cooperation with the Department of Agriculture and other government agencies.

LMP: What are these projects?

RBC: Seminars regarding livelihood projects are conducted, aside from on-going activities.

LMP: Is there no pinpointed livelihood project?

RBC: So far, there’s no livelihood project in the Upper land yet. But in Poblacion, the Administration had already constructed a Fish Port that will help the fishermen, and at the same time increase the economy of Guindulman.

LMP: I heard you are running for Councilor in Guindulman?

RBC: Yes, Sir.

LMP: What inspired you to file a candidacy and run as Councilor?

RBC: If you will try to look at the situation in Guindulman, no one from the Upper Barangays represents the voice of the people. And for so many years, even up to now, this is still the situation.

LMP: Like Metro Manila where all the Senators are there?

RBC: Yes Sir! That’s one we need to change.

LMP: So, one of these Upper Barangays is Mayuga?

RBC: Yes, Sir.

LMP: Why is it that the other Barangays in the previous elections were not represented?

RBC: In my own opinion, it is because the people who live along the highway don’t want a candidate from the Upper Barangays. They don’t vote and support the running candidates from the Highlands. It seems like discrimination in our place, directed to the highlander.

LMP:  If that is the problem, how would you change it? How would you encourage them to vote for somebody who will run from the Upper Barangays?

RBC: I must convince the people living along the highway that if they need more improvements for the town and for their respective Barangays, there must be someone who will take one of the seats in the Legislative Body who will represent the Upper Barangays to put everything in balance.

LMP: If you will be elected, and I believe you will be, what are the projects that you have in mind?

RBC: First and foremost, I will focus on education because in the Upper Barangays, we lack school facilities. What we have is only Mayuga National High School. The other public elementary schools need more improvements especially with regards to school facilities.

LMP: You believe that education will really lead to economic development? And you believe that if the people are educated, they will really have an improved kind of life?

RBC: Yes, Sir. Exactly!

LMP: Because you are from Mayuga, you should be the example.

RBC: I hope I could be.

LMP: So, this will be a question of “inspiring the Lowlanders to vote for a Highlander”. Can I call you a Highlander?

RBC: Yes, Sir. I am proud to be one.

LMP: How did the current officials of Mayuga view you as a candidate?  Did they accept you and appreciate your candidacy or scorn you?

RBC: I think they like me for they even encouraged me to file a Certificate of Candidacy. After we won as the 2nd Placer of Alturas Drum and Bugle Corps Showdown, they were able to see my capability and knowledge to be one of the Legislators in Guindulman.

LMP: That was an accomplishment. And you want to help fast-track the development of Guindulman? What is your message to the people of Guindulman?

RBC: I hope they will give me the chance to become one of the Legislators in our Municipality and I can guarantee them of the improvements in our locality. If ever I will be elected, I can ensure them of an honest-to-goodness service and my total commitment for the welfare of Guindulman.
      Getting the cooperation of his fellow alumni of MNHS was already a big job. Garnering the support of the teachers and students was another great task. Making the entire barangay of Mayuga involved in laudable project was Mr. Ruth B. Cahulogan’s heroic achievement. Winning in the Showdown was a manifestation of real honest-to-goodness synergization, with him on top of the basic responsibilities.

      Mr. Cahulogan is ripe for the picking. His experiences as a working student, a Student Leader, a Campaign Manager, a Legislative Researcher, a Tax Mapper, and NGO President… all build up the kind of knowledgability and confidence he now possess. He most has imbibed his Leaderships inclination from his father, Mr. Calixto Gamutan Cahulogan, who has been Barangay Captain of Mayuga for many years.

      Now that he is a candidate for Councilor in Guindulman, the voters of the Municipality must possess wisdom to place in the Sangguniang Bayan one who knows the job of a real Legislator.

      Only then could the people of Guindulman claim them the highlander has a place in their policy making…a highlander has proven himself worthy of the accolades for his committed services to the community.

By ANGELINE VALENCIA       

Regional Police Director Lani-O Nerez warned Tuesday  municipal police chiefs in Bohol to intensify their respective crime prevention plans to brace against the expected increase in theft, robbery, and snatching incidences during the Christmas season.

The regional top police official was in Bohol Tuesday to preside over the turnover of command to its new provincial director.

In his message, Supt. Nerez cautioned police chiefs to brace for the coming holidays because crimes against property will likely rise.

The local command is under the administration of Senior Supt. Anthony Lao Obenza who replaced Senior Supt. Edgardo Ingking who was promoted as chief of staff of the regional command. Director Nerez is Ingking’s immediate boss.
\In his response following his new assignment, Supt. Obenza who is from Talibon admitted that he  faced the challenge to surpass the accomplishments of the past leadership. He formally assumed as provincial police director on Wednesday, a day after the turnover rites.

During the same occasion, Director Nerez dared Obenza to uphold the police ideals to serve as he assumes the responsibility in the double-season of crime incidence- -the Christmas holidays and the election period.     

The regional director advised the local police force to maximize the provincial mobile group in monitoring their areas and in pursuing criminals as he warned them of a possible spill over of criminals from Cebu and other provinces.     

He also called on the local police force to stay neutral in dealing with politics-related matters.     

He reminded that an official is only allowed two PNP personnel as escorts in their sorties, based on the national directive issued following the Maguindanao massacre.     

After the ceremony at Camp Dagohoy, Obenza immediately called a command conference with all the 48 municipal chiefs of police to reiterate the message in his acceptance speech, calling for continued support to the provincial command in an effort to sustain the accomplishments of the past leadership.     

Prior to his assignment here, Obenza- -who hails from the municipality of Talibon- -was head of the personnel division of the Central Visayas Police Regional Office.     

Obenza is a Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) graduate, belonging to Batch ’85 and holds a master’s degree in public administration.     

Governor Erico Aumentado chose Obenza  from a list of three names, based on the normal procedure.     

With the cooperation of the municipal chiefs of police, Obenza assured to sustain the all-out war against all forms of criminality, with emphasis on gambling, that Ingking had started.     

Vice-Governor Julius Caesar Herrera, who represented the governor, challenged Obenza to sustain the integrity of the police to also maintain the trust and confidence of the people, considering that the cooperation and support of the community had been significant in the crime prevention in the province.     

In the ceremony, Nerez awarded the medal of achievement to Ingking after serving as provincial director for two years and 11 months.     

In his farewell speech, Ingking expressed gratitude to the governor, the vice-governor, lawyer Tomas Abapo Jr., during his stint as provincial administrator, for the support to the programs of Bohol Police Provincial Office.     

Among them are the establishment of tourist police and the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team, acquisition of more patrol cars, construction of standard police station buildings and the deployment of more personnel to the province.     

Ingking’s leadership had also ushered in several awards for the province- -in the regional and national categories.     

The most recent commendation that the provincial command received was for topping in the implementation of the National Firearms Control (NFC) Program, after netting 1,096 firearms from August to September. This constitutes 23 percent of the estimated 4,232 loose firearms.     

Ingking also expressed gratitude to the new provincial administrator, lawyer Handel Lagunay, for facilitating the assistance of Legal Assistance for Effective Law Enforcement Program (LAELEP) in his stint as provincial legal officer then, at the height of the administrative complaints filed against him by Panglao former mayor Doloreich Dumaluan.     

Dumaluan filed an administrative case before the National Police Commission and the Office of the Ombudsman-Visayas sometime in October this year for obstruction of justice and dereliction of duty after Ingking refused to grant him a visit to an adversary in a shooting incident then detained at the BPPO lock up cell.     

The complaint that Dumaluan filed before regional office of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) was later dropped.     

Obenza’s assignment to his home province is part of the latest police regional reshuffle where then PRO-7 chief of staff Senior Supt. Vicente Loot takes over Senior Supt. Marcelo Garbo  as the new deputy regional director for operations, as the latter assumes as the new deputy regional director for administration. Ingking assumes as the new PRO-7 chief of staff.     

Obenza’s position as chief of PRO-7 personnel division went to then PRO-7 public information officer Supt. Ernesto Agas, Ingking’s former deputy provincial commander. 

Bohol adopts Korean envoy as own “son”
By JUNE S. BLANCO

  The Korean envoy to the Philippines is now “a baby Boholano.”

  Thus Ambassador Choi Joong-Kyung acknowledged his “new sisters and brothers” after Gov. Erico Aumentado conferred on him the title of “adopted son of Bohol” â€" the first ambassador to become one â€" in rites Friday at the Bohol Cultural Center in Tagbilaran City

  The adoption is contained in Aumentado’s Executive Order No. 27 signed on December 18 that recognizes the help Choi has extended to the province to advance its marine and upland agriculture through the environment-friendly use of natural resources.

  South Korea has developed the multi-industry cluster (MIC) concept that is Choi’s brainchild. The concept groups several related industries into one, or at least next to each other, to cut down on operational costs, travel time and fuel, among others.

  Korea has since adopted Choi’s idea and even took it another step farther by strongly advocating for the establishment of one in the proposed Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Talibon town.

  The MIC would include an algae research center worth US$2.9 million and bio-ethanol extraction facility that can also generate biomass power from algae as well as organic fertilizer from the residue requiring an investment of about US$150 million.

  Another cluster includes the upgrading of the Malinao Dam for P800 million and the establishment of a P315-million modern rice processing complex (RPC), both in Pilar town. The former raises the dam height by two meters to double its water storage capacity from five million to 10 million cubic meters to irrigate an additional 2,700 hectares of rice land. On the other hand, the RPC has storage, drying and milling facilities for hybrid rice and a specialized one for the Japonica variety â€" the top draw for Korean, Japanese and Chinese cooking and in demand for such restaurants.

  Aumentado also recognized Choi for backing the P1.4-billion Bohol Circumferential Road Improvement Project Phase 3 (BCRIP 3) and the US$3 million feasibility study for the Bohol-Cebu Multi-Access Friendship Bridge.

  A major funder for the projects is the Korea Export-Import Bank (Eximbank) through its Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF) window, with the feasibility studies or implementation carried out by the Korea International Cooperation Agency (Koica).

  In the Philippines, the EDCF country director is Man Hwan Park while the Koica resident representative is Kim In. Both came to Bohol for the occasion, together with the ambassador‘s wife and son, as well as Ho Jeh Lee representing Dr. Gyungsoo Kim of Algahol Philippines Corp. that is already propagating the Eucheuma cottonnii variety of seaweeds in Talibon. Kim In-Sook of the Korean Economic Daily heralded the event.

  Choi gave significant contributions to accelerate Bohol’s economic development, and strengthened the bilateral diplomatic relations of the two countries through these efforts, the Aumentado order said.

  The ambassador has particularly strongly advocated for the use of renewable energy through the Green Strategy, and the symbiotic development of the two countries: Korea with its high technology and financial resources to help develop the rich natural resources of Bohol in particular, and the Philippines in general for their mutual economic well-being.

  Aumentado chronicled Choi’s deeds in a plaque that, assisted by Vice Gov. Julius Caesar Herrera and some Provincial Board members, he presented to the envoy together with a copy of the executive order.

  Choi’s response

  As adopted son, Choi vowed “to bring Bohol on the right road of economic development, aiming for ‘Clean Advanced Bohol’”.

  With Bohol’s and Korea’s agreement on building the MIC with seaweed agriculture and seaweed ethanol business as main pillars, he said, “The journey has begun.”

  But with both feet planted firmly on the ground, he said the journey will be a long one â€" requiring patience, wisdom, cooperation and trust, not to mention the huge amount of capital injection from outside Bohol.

  Apparently seeing a problem but proposing a solution at the same time, Choi said to attract overseas capital, public or private, all kinds of deterrents imaginable such as “slow-moving documentation process and ping-pong between local and central government should be removed or upgraded.”

  He will stand on the frontline of the campaign to achieve model-case MIC in Bohol, he said.

      Latest radio survey, the first after the filing of certificates of candidacy, conducted yesterday showed the edge of a humble candidate with feet on the ground amid professional achievements in the vice-gubernatorial race.

      Former provincial administrator Tomas Abapo Jr. gained the preference of 22 of the 43 respondents of dyRD’s Radyo Merkado, aired every Saturday morning, for his being down-to-earth, approachable, experienced, seasoned and sincere public servant.

      Retired provincial schools division superintendent, Dr. Elpidio Jala got 15 votes, while Liga ng mga Barangay provincial federation president Concepcion Lim got 6.

      Radyo Merkado, with phone-in program format, gathered the opinions of listeners on who would they vote for vice governor if the election would be held the next day.

      Like in the past surveys, listeners cited Abapo’s untainted record as public servant during his past stints as Provincial Board member, as provincial legal officer and as provincial administrator, and his proven knack in governance in addition to his humility

      Abapo also topped in the last survey for vice governor before the filing of candidacy, while First District Rep. Edgar Chatto topped in the gubernatorial survey then.

      In yesterday’s survey, some cited kindness, keenness on the problems or plight of the youth, and heart for the teachers in choosing Jala as their preferred vice governor.

      Those who chose Lim cited her edge as the head of barangay leaders, and money. - Sunday Post

Very strict rules.

I’ve seen Avatar (the 3D version) over the weekend, and while I won’t go into the content of the movie, technologically it’s a must-see. Think you’ve seen 3D? Avatar truly takes it to the next level, giving us a glimpse of the movie industry’s future.

It’s no wonder that, partly due to the enormous online buzz (“Avatar” has been one of Twitter’s trending topics almost constantly for days now), it’s had one of the best opening weekends in the history of cinema. It earned $73 million in the US and $159.2 million internationally; combined, it’s a $232.2 million worldwide total. excerpt from Mashable.com

Charice performs "Note to God"
Charice Pempengco on Oprah: Note To God

I Have Nothing by Charice Pempengco on Oprah show
Charice Pempengco on Oprah Show

By Sunday Post

He was on leave as a Post columnist since the paper’s issue on July 5, 2009.

But in deference to his “never- say- die” attitude, the paper’s management decided to place the template of his column “The Looking Glass” in the Opinion Page of the Post even if he was already out of circulation.

Known in the Bar circle as  among the most sought-after legal eagles, lawyer Isabelo Sales, Jr. wrote “30” to his column The Looking Glass after a losing battle with the Big C.

In Bohol, Sales as a professional, belonged to the rarer specie. He was one of the few lawyers who was a journalism diploma holder. He graduated Bachelor of Science in Journalism at the Lyceum of the Phils. in Manila.

As a lawyer-journalist, he became the first provincial secretary of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan during the time of former governor Lino I. Chatto. He was a contemporary of Gov. Erico Aumentado who started his political career as board member during Chatto’s incumbency.

Sales became an elected member of the SP in 1998 until 2001. The last position he held was that of president of the Integrated Bar of the Phils., Bohol chapter.

TEMPORARY 
His writing skills gave rise to The Looking Glass column in this paper. But last July, what seemed to be a temporary leave became permanent when as time went by, he was unable to fulfill his obligation as a columnist. It turned out that may be unknown to him, he had already in his system, what appeared to be the deadly virus that ultimately finished him off.

The inevitable came last Monday when news broke out that the Post columnist left his column duties forever. He died after a six- month battle with prostate cancer, an ailment that nobody among his close friends believed that he was a victim of.

Sales’ coterie of coffee cronies  at the Bo’s Coffee Club  at the Island City Mall were stunned when they learned that his afternoon sorties became scarce and far between. When coffee talk became a vogue in town, Sales was a regular fixture of the coffee circuit so much so  that his permanent absence is surely missed.

Sales, a widower, was survived by his five children  Engr. Angelus Sales, Ms. Belinda Sales-Canlas, Ms. Charmaine Sales, Ms. Delora Sales-Simbajon, Elijah Sales and brothers Engr. Romy Sales and Capt. Jesse Sales.
The former IBP president’s remains now lie in state at the Sales residence along Baguio Drive, in Taloto district, this city.

He will be interred at 10:00 AM  tomorrow at the Victoria Memorial Park.

A trader was hurt after he was shot Wednesday morning by three men in a hold-up attempt at his home.            
The victim was identified as one Josevirre Rulida, 38, married and a resident of Purok 4, Barangay Babag, Dagohoy.            

Initial reports revealed that the victim and his wife were outside their home about 6 am last Dec. 16 when they noticed three men entering their home.            

The suspects covered their faces with t-shirts obviously to hide their identities from witnesses.            

After entering through the rear portion of the house, the suspects came upon the victim’s son who was having breakfast.            

One of the suspects aimed his gun on the boy’s head while the hold-up was in progress.            

The victim was able to grab the gun of one of the suspects and fired but another suspect fired back.            

Rulida, who was hit by a bullet, fell while the suspects hurriedly escaped on a black Honda XRM motorcycle with no plate no.            

The motorcycle fled in the direction of San Miguel town.            

Rulida was initially brought to a hospital in San Miguel but was moved to a private hospital in Tagbilaran.            
He was described to be in guarded condition.            

Responding policemen from the Dagohoy police station recovered an empty shell of a .9 mm pistol.            

Investigators are still trying to determine the identities of the suspects while conducting follow-up investigation. - Sunday Post

Drinking whisky will result in a worse hangover than vodka, according to research by US scientists.

The reason might lie in the number of molecules called "congeners" which it contains compared to vodka, the Brown University team said.

But the study also suggested that sticking to vodka all night rather than whisky would not improve your performance at work the next day.

The study is published in Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research.

The 95 volunteers for the research, all healthy alcohol users, had one night of "acclimatisation" before drinking either whisky or vodka the following night.

They were given enough alcohol to put them a third over the legal driving limit for the UK.

On the third night they were given a "placebo" drink containing no alcohol.

On each occasion, they were then asked how they felt the following day, and were tested on how well they could concentrate on tasks.

The volunteers who drank whisky reported far more hangover symptoms such as headache nausea, thirst and fatigue compared with those who drank vodka.

However, the overall performance at the concentration task was roughly the same between the two groups.

Professor Damaris Rohsenow, who led the research at Brown University in Rhode Island, said: "While people felt worse, they didn't perform worse after bourbon (a type of whisky made in the US) than after vodka."

He said that the study also showed that workers in "safety-sensitive" roles could be impaired by drinking - long after the alcohol itself had disappeared from the bloodstream. - bbc news

By the Bohol Chronicle

A provincial board member and two lawyers exposed letters containing "death threats" for their supposed role in the inquiry involving a city councilor for alleged embezzlement of funds that are intended for legal services of policemen who are facing counter-charges of arrested felons.

Provincial Board Member Aster Apalisok-Piollo first revealed on Tuesday a letter threatening to kill her and her family due to her role in investigating the reported unauthorized and unliquidated financial transactions of city kagawad Danilo Bantugan using funds of the Legal Assistance for Effective Law Enforcement Program (LAELEP).

However, a few days later, lawyers Mitchell John Boiser and Salvador Diputado also bared to the Chronicle having received a similar letter that threatened to kill them and their family.

The handwriting of said letters are evidently alike which led the recipients to believe that these came from the same person.

Piollo's chief of staff, Engr. Bong Bullecer, provided the Chronicle copies of a letter from a certain Max Jumamoy of Inabanga, Bohol that was sent through postal mail.
        
The letters sent to Boiser and Diputado bore a similar penmanship with the one received by Piollo but its return address is Danao, Bohol.

The letter, received by the board member's staff at the Capitol yesterday, told Piollo to "stop her investigation" into the alleged unauthorized and unliquidated financial transactions of City Kagawad Danilo Bantugan utilizing funds of the Legal Assistance for Effective Law Enforcement Program (LAELEP). Lawyer Bantugan was chairman of the LAELEP committee of the IBP Bohol when the purported irregularities were discovered.

Boiser, currently president of the IBP-Bohol, was warned that he is being followed and if the situation allows, he would be killed.

The LAELEP is a joint project of the provincial government and the Integrated Bar of the Philippines (IBP) Bohol chapter to provide legal services to policemen who are facing counter-charges from criminal suspects they arrested.

Since the provincial government provided some P450,000 for the project, the IBP-Bohol referred the alleged irregularities in handling of funds to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) to investigate.

Piollo chairs the SP committee on public accountability that is looking into the matter.
The letter threatened Piollo that if she continues with the investigation, the letter sender would kill her and her family.

It said further that the board member is being followed wherever she goes.

Bullecer and Boiser presented copies of the "death threat" letter to the police yesterday and entered this into the blotter of the City Police Station.

According to Bullecer, the letter may be threatening the lady lawmaker but definitely it will not deter her from finding out the truth into the alleged financial irregularities.

Do not be too timid and squeamish about your actions. All life is an experience. - Ralph Waldo Emerson

What a piece of work is a man! How noble in reason, how infinite in faculty, in form and moving how express and admirable, in action how like an angel, in apprehension how like a god -- the beauty of the world, the paragon of animals! - William Shakespeare

We need a type of theatre which not only releases the feelings, insights and impulses possible within the particular historical field of human relations in which the action takes place, but employs and encourages those thoughts and feelings which help transform the field itself. - Bertolt Brecht

Satan trembles when he sees the weakest saint upon their knees. - William Cowper

Al Chua, a Chinese national, filed a petition under oath for naturalization, with the Regional Trial Court of Manila. In his petition, he stated that he is married to Leni Chua; that he is living with her in Sampaloc, Manila; that he is of good moral character; and that he has conducted himself in an irreproachable manner during his stay in the Philippines. However, at the time of the filing of the petition, Leni Chua was already living in Cebu, while Al was living with Babes Toh in Manila, with whom he has an amorous relationship. After his direct testimony, Al Chua withdrew his petition for naturalization.

What crime or crimes, if any, did Al Chua commit? Explain. (5%)

Obie Juan is suspected to have in his possession an unspecified amount of methamphetamine hydrochloride or “shabu”. An entrapment operation was conducted by police officers, resulting in his arrest following the discovery of 100 grams of the said dangerous drug in his possession. He was subjected to a drug test and was found positive for the use of marijuana, another dangerous drug. He was subsequently charged with two crimes: Violation of Section 11, Article II of RA 9165 for the possession of “shabu” and violation of Section 15, Article II of RA 9165 for the use of marijuana.

a) Are the charges proper? Explain.

b) So as not to be sentenced to death, Obie Juan offers to plead guilty to a lesser offense. Can he do so? Why? (5%)

Don Gabito, a philanthropist, offered to fund several projects of the Mayor. He opened an account in the Mayor’s name and regularly deposited various amounts ranging from P500,000.00 to P1 Million. From this account, the Mayor withdrew and used the money for constructing feeder roads, barangay clinics, repairing schools and for all other municipal projects. It was subsequently discovered that Don Gabito was actually a jueteng operator and the amounts he deposited were proceeds from his jueteng operations.

What crime/s were committed?

Who are criminally liable? Explain. (6%)

On July 1, 2004, Jet Matulis, a pedophile, gave P1,000.00 to Sherly, an orphan and a prostitute, and brought her to a motel. He inserted a rusty and oversized vibrator into her vagina with such force that she bled profusely. Jet panicked and fled. Sherly was brought to the hospital and died a few days later because of shock caused by hemorrhage.

a) What crime or crimes did Jet Matulis commit? Explain.

b) If Sherly were a minor when she died, would your answer be the same? Explain. (5%)

During a PNP buy-bust operation, Cao Shih was arrested for selling 20 grams of methamphetamine hydrochloride (shabu) to a poseur-buyer. Cao Shih, through an intermediary, paid Patrick, the Evidence Custodian of the PNP Forensic Chemistry Section, the amount of P500,000.00 in consideration for the destruction by Patrick of the drug. Patrick managed to destroy the drug.

State with reasons whether Patrick committed the following crimes:

a) Direct bribery;

b) Indirect bribery;

c) Section 3(e) of RA 3019 (Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act);

d) Obstruction of Justice under PD 1829; (7%)

Allan, the Municipal Treasurer of the Municipality of Gerona, was in a hurry to return to his office after a day-long official conference. He alighted from the government car which was officially assigned to him, leaving the ignition key and the car unlocked, and rushed to his office. Jules, a bystander, drove off with the car and later sold the same to his brother, Danny for P20,000.00, although the car was worth P800,000.00.

a) What are the respective crimes, if any, committed by Allan, Danny and Jules? Explain.

b) What, if any, are their respective civil liabilities? Explain. (5%)

Pete, a security guard, arrived home late one night after rendering overtime. He was shocked to see Flor, his wife, and Benjie, his best friend, completely naked having sexual intercourse. Pete pulled out his service gun and shot and killed Benjie. Pete was charged with murder for the death of Benjie. Pete contended that he acted in defense of his honor and that, therefore, he should be acquitted of the crime. The court found that Benjie died under exceptional circumstances and exonerated Pete of the crime, but sentenced him to destierro, conformably with Article 247 of the Revised Penal Code. The court also ordered Pete to pay indemnity to the heirs of the victim in the amount of P50,000.00.

a) Is the defense of Pete meritorious? Explain.

b) Under Article 247 of the Revised Penal Code, is destierro a penalty? Explain. c) Did the court correctly order Pete to pay indemnity despite his exoneration under Article 247 of the Revised Penal Code? Explain. (5%)

Jose employed Mario as gardener and Henry as cook. They learned that Jose won P500,000.00 in the lotto, and decided to rob him. Mario positioned himself about 30 meters away from Jose’s house and acted as lookout. For his part, Henry surreptitiously gained entry into the house and killed Jose who was then having his dinner. Henry found the P500,000.00 and took it. Henry then took a can of gasoline from the garage and burned the house to conceal the acts. Mario and Henry fled, but were arrested around 200 meters away from the house by alert barangay tanods. The tanods recovered the P500,000.00.

Mario and Henry were charged with and convicted of robbery with homicide, with the aggravating circumstances of arson, dwelling, and nighttime. Mario moved to reconsider the decision maintaining that he was not at the scene of the crime and was not aware that Henry killed the victim; hence, he was guilty only of robbery, as an accomplice. Mario also claimed that he conspired with Henry to commit robbery but not to kill Jose. Henry, likewise, moved to reconsider the decision, asserting that he is liable only for attempted robbery with homicide with no aggravating circumstance, considering that he and Mario did not benefit from the P500,000.00. He further alleged that arson is a felony and not an aggravating circumstance; dwelling is not aggravating in attempted robbery with homicide; and nighttime is not aggravating because the house of Jose was lighted at the time he was killed.

Resolve with reasons the respective motions of Mario and Henry. (7%)

Candido stabbed an innocent bystander who accidentally bumped him. The innocent bystander died as a result of the stabbing. Candido was arrested and was tested to be positive for the use of “shabu” at the time he committed the stabbing.

What should be the proper charge against Candido? Explain. (3%)

Paz Masipag worked as a housemaid and yaya of the one-week old son of the spouses Martin and Pops Kuripot. When Paz learned that her 70 year-old mother was seriously ill, she asked Martin for a cash advance of P1,000.00 but Martin refused. One morning, Paz gagged the mouth of Martin’s son with stockings; placed the child in a box; sealed it with masking tape and placed the box in the attic. Later in the afternoon, she demanded P5,000.00 as ransom for the release of his son. Martin did not pay the ransom. Subsequently, Paz disappeared. After a couple of days, Martin discovered the box in the attic with his child already dead. According to the autopsy report, the child died of asphyxiation barely three minutes after the box was sealed.

What crime or crimes did Paz commit? Explain. (5%)

Maganda was charged with violation of the Bouncing Checks Law (BP 22) punishable by imprisonment of not less than 30 days but not more than 1 year or a fine of not less than but not more than double the amount of the check, which fine shall not exceed P200,000.00, or both. The court convicted her of the crime and sentenced her to pay a fine of P50,000.00 with subsidiary imprisonment in case of insolvency, and to pay the private complainant the amount of the check. Maganda was unable to pay the fine but filed a petition for probation. The court granted the petition subject to the condition, among others, that she should not change her residence without the court’s prior approval.

a) What is the proper period of probation?

b) Supposing before the Order of Discharge was issued by the court but after the lapse of the period of probation, Maganda transferred residence without prior approval of the court.

May the court revoke the Order of Probation and order her to serve the subsidiary imprisonment? Explain. (5%)

The accused was found guilty of 10 counts of rape for having carnal knowledge with the same woman. In addition to the penalty of imprisonment, he was ordered to pay indemnity in the amount of P50,000.00 for each count.

On appeal, the accused questions the award of civil indemnity for each count, considering that the victim is the same woman. How would you rule on the contention of the accused? Explain. (3%)

E and M are convicted of a penal law that imposes a penalty of fine or imprisonment or both fine and imprisonment. The judge sentenced them to pay the fine, jointly and severally, with subsidiary imprisonment in case of insolvency.

a) Is the penalty proper? Explain.

b) May the judge impose an alternative penalty of fine or imprisonment? Explain. (4%)

Harold was convicted of a crime defined and penalized by a special penal law where the imposable penalty is from 6 months, as minimum, to 3 years, as maximum. State with reasons whether the court may correctly impose the following penalties:

a) a straight penalty of 10 months;

b) 6 months, as minimum, to 11 months, as maximum;

c) a straight penalty of 2 years. (5%)

DD was engaged in the warehouse business. Sometime in November 2004, he was in dire need of money. He, thus, sold merchandise deposited in his warehouse to VR for P500,000.00. DD was charged with theft, as principal, while VR as accessory. The court convicted DD of theft but acquitted VR on the ground that he purchased the merchandise in good faith. However, the court ordered VR to return the merchandise to the owner thereof and ordered DD to refund the P500,000.00 to VR.

DD moved for the reconsideration of the decision insisting that he should be acquitted of theft because being the depositary, he had juridical possession of the merchandise. VR also moved for the reconsideration of the decision insisting that since he was acquitted of the crime charged, and that he purchased the merchandise in good faith, he is not obligated to return the merchandise to its owner.

Rule on the motions with reasons. (5%)

Belle saw Gaston stealing the prized cock of a neighbor and reported him to the police. Thereafter, Gaston, while driving a car saw Belle crossing the street. Incensed that Belle had reported him, Gaston decided to scare her by trying to make it appear that he was about to run her over. He revved the engine of his car and drove towards her but he applied the brakes. Since the road was slippery at that time, the vehicle skidded and hit Belle causing her death.

What is the liability of Gaston? Why? (4%)

Who is Your Pinoy Santa Claus?

CAUSE of Leprosy

Mycobacterium leprae or leprosy bacili

MODE OF TRANSMISSION

Airborne: inhalation of droplet/spray from coughing and sneezing of untreated leprosy patient

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS of Leprosy

*long standing skin lesions that do not disappear with ordinary treatment
* loss of feeling/numbness on the skin
* loss of sweating and hair growth over the skin lesions
* thickened and/or painful nerves in the neck, forearm, near elbow joint and the back of knees

Leprosy in the Philippines

When the National Leprosy Control Program (NLCP) was established in 1986, there were 38,570 registered leprosy patients in the country. That number translated into a Prevalence Rate (PR) of 7.2 per 10,000 Filipinos.

By the end of 1998, with 7,005 registered patients and a PR of 0.90 per 10,000 population, leprosy was no longer considered as a public health problem by both the Department of Health (DOH) and the World Health Organization (WHO).

In 2004, the number was further reduced to 3,149 registered cases and a PR of 0.38 per 10,000 population.

From January 1 to December 31, 2004, a total of 2,120 new cases of leprosy were diagnosed and all were put under treatment with MDT.

The NLCP is under the supervision of the National Center for Disease Prevention and Control (NCDPC) of the DOH headed by Dr. Yolanda Oliveros; and the Infectious Disease Office headed by Dr. Jaime Lagahid. Dr. Leda Hernandez is Chief of the Division that handles leprosy while Dr. Francesca Gajete is the National Program Manager. - DOH Philippines

The functions and operations of the DOH was directed to become consistent with the provisions of Administrative Code 1987 and RA 7160 through Executive Order 102. The Health Sector Reform Agenda of the Philippines, 1999-2004 was launched. The reforms are: provide fiscal autonomy to government hospitals; secure funding for priority health programs; promote the development of local health systems and ensure its effective performance; strengthen the capacities of health regulatory agencies and expand coverage of the National Health Insurance Programs.

National Objectives for Health 1999-2004 was launched. This states the Philippines objectives for the eradication and control of infectious diseases commonly affecting our people, major chronic illnesses and injuries that compromise lives of the productive sector. It encourages promotion of healthy lifestyle and health-seeking behaviors to prevent or control certain debilitating illness and life-threatening diseases Creation of the National Health Planning Committee (NHPC) and the establishment of Inter-local Health Zones (ILHZs) throughout the country through E.O. 205.

This promotes, encourages and ensures the full and integration of delivery and development of health care services throughout the country. It provides for the participation, involvement and collaboration of all local government units with major stakeholders namely Department of Health and Department of Interior and Local Government.

What are the long-term effects of cigarette smoking?

Long-term smoking can contribute significantly to the acceleration of the following health problems:

Nicotine addiction
Coronary artery disease â€" at least 20% of deaths are smoking-related
Heart disease - Smokers in their 30s and 40s have a heart attack rate that is five times their non-smoking peers
Hardening of the arteries and complication of blocked arteries, hypertension, blood clots
Stoke â€" People who smoke a pack a day have almost two and a half times the risk of getting a stroke
Peptic ulcer disease
Lung diseases â€" chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema; smoking caused nearly 85,000 deaths in 1990 due to these diseases.
Cancers â€" oral, especially of the respiratory tract and the oral cavity, nose, pharynx, larynx, lung, cervical, urinary bladder, kidney, and pancreas; smoking accounts for 85% of all lung cancers
Disease of the oral cavity, e.g., irritation and infection of the gums and teeth
Delayed wound healing
Smoking can cause the following problems in women:

Reproductive disturbances (such as, infertility)

Problems during pregnancy include:

a. Fetal abnormalities and even death

b. Low-birth weight infants - DOH Philippines

What are the effects of nicotine on the body?

Nicotine gives the so-called “positive effects” which include:

Enhancement of memory and alertness

Improvement of skills and work performance

Alteration of mood, reduced stress, improvement in “sociability” and even euphoria

However, these effects are fleeting and are far outweighted by negative effects. These include:

Shortness of breath

Chronic cough

Increased heart rate and blood pressure

“Ulcer-like” stomach pains (hunger pains), nausea and diarrhea

Reduction of fertility

Early onset of menopause in women

Tremors, especially in the inexperienced user

Sweating with the smell of nicotine

Others related to gastro-intestinal effects:

Appetite suppression specifically for simple carbohydrates (sweets)

Inability to taste food

Decreased efficiency of food digestion and metabolism

What is second-hand smoke?

Second-hand smoke is smoke exhaled by a smoker and inhaled by other people. Non-smokers who are exposed to second-hand smoke are more at risk because the particles in the exhaled smoke are smaller. They reach deeper into the lungs of the passive smokers.

The unfortunate non-smoker exposed regularly to second-hand smoke, is prone to specific health risks which include:

Increased risk of heart disease
Increased risk of lung cancer
Increase frequency of respiratory infections and asthmatic bronchitis in infants and children
Chronic irritation of the eyes, nose and throat especially among children. - DOH Philippines

What are the chemicals in tobacco smoke?

Tobacco contains nicotine, as well as tar. Both substances get deposited in the bronchi and the lungs. The other chemicals found in tobacco are:

Acetone
Ammonia
Carbon Monoxide
Carbon Dioxide
Hydrogen Cyanide
Methane
Benzopyrene
These chemicals are the major factors responsible for smoking related diseases like coronary heart disease, atherosclerosis, stroke, emphysema, acute bronchitis and cancers of the nose, pharynx, larynx (voice box), and lungs.  - DOH Philippines

Why is cigarette smoking dangerous?

In 1960’s, medical research on tobacco showed smoking to be strongly linked to heart and lung diseases. Smoking may be even more dangerous now than 30 years ago because the lower levels of tar and nicotine in cigarette brands make smokers inhale more deeply. In the US . . . .

Only 42 of male lifelong smokers reach the age of 73 compared to 78% of non-smokers
25.7% of the adult population (47 million people) continue to smoke despite repeated warnings on the hazards of cigarette smoking. 28% of the male population and 23% of women smoke
Despite the known dangers of smoking, television, radio, and print ads continue to promote a number of cigarette brands - DOH Philippines

Why is very hard to quit smoking?

Withdrawal is a difficult process. About 70% of smokers want to quit. In one study of women smokers who wanted to quit, 80% of them were unable to. This is because nicotine increases the activity of dopamine, a chemical in the brain that elicits pleasurable sensations. Even after years of non-smoking, about 20% of ex-smokers still have occasional cravings for cigarettes. - DOH Philippines

What are the signs and symptoms of nicotine withdrawal?

Withdrawal symptoms begin as soon as 4 hours after one decides to quit smoking or after the last cigarette, generally peak in intensity at three to five days, and disappear after two weeks. These symptoms start with headache, anxiety, irritability, tremors, poor concentration, and hunger pains. Other signs and symptoms include insomnia and depression, sweating, constipation and diarrhea. - DOH Philippines

What are the benefits of quitting smoking?

Chronologically, these are the benefits when one decides to quit smoking:

1. Within 20 minutes, the blood pressure and pulse rate drop to normal, the body temperature of the hands and feet returns to normal.

2. Within 8 hours, the carbon monoxide level in blood drops to normal and the oxygen level I blood increases to normal.

3. Within 24 hours, the risk of a sudden heart attack decreases.

4. Within 48 hours, the nerve endings begin to regenerate and a person’s ability to smell and taste begins to return to normal.

5. Within 2 weeks to 3 months, blood circulation improves and lung function increases up to 30%.

6. Within 1 to 9 months, overall energy increases, signs and symptoms of coughing, nasal congestion, fatigue, and shortness of breath are markedly reduced. Natural cleansing mechanisms of the respiratory tract returns to normal, so that the body is able to handle mucus, clean the respiratory tract, and prevent respiratory infections.

7. Within 1 year, risk of coronary heart disease is reduced by 50%.

8. Within 5 years, the risk of dying from lung cancer is reduced by 50%. The risk of cancer of the mouth is half that of a tobacco user.

9. Within 10 years, the risk of dying lung cancer, stroke and heart attack is the same as that of a non-smoker’s. - DOH Philippines

When is the best time to quit smoking?

The sooner a smoker quits smoking, the better. It is never too late to quit. No one is too old too quit. Because the first two weeks are critical success, smokers should seek all the help they can during this period.

Here is a tip to help smoker decide when to quit smoking:

A smoker should choose a particular date to quit when his level of stress is lowest.

Example: Women should not start during the premenstrual period when stress is high.

Scheduled reduction â€" the process of slowly reducing the number of cigarettes per day until one has stopped completely.

Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) â€" a smoker who stops smoking is given small amounts of nicotine over a period of six weeks or more to reduce withdrawal signs. The nicotine is given either as chewing gum. patch, nasal spray or cigarette-like inhaler. Consult your physician about NRT.
Totally quitting smoking without any outside help. - DOH Philippines

Exercise. Take deep breaths, dance, run, wall jump up and down, stretch.
Drink plenty of water and eat fruits and vegetables. Take plenty of vitamins and minerals. Carrots, apples, singkamas, chewing gum, and candies are good munching foods to replace the feel of a cigarette in the mouth.

Take naps, warm baths or showers during intensive cravings to smoke.
Tell friends and family that you have stopped smoking. This will make you feel embarrassed when they catch you smoking.

Change activities or habits that are associated with smoking. For instance, find other ways to finish a meal without smoking. Go out for a walk, go to a place where smoking is prohibited, doodle instead of smoking while talking on the phone.

Advice to smokers:

While it was once a fad to smoke, it has now become dangerous to health. Smoking is abnormal. It is very addicting and very hard to stop. Smoking not only affects other people who inhaled second-hand smoke. Smoking contributes significantly to diseases that shortens life and is leading cause of death like heart attack, stroke, respiratory diseases which make smokers “pulmonary cripples” as in asthma, emphysema, bronchitis, recurrent infections, and cancer. - DOH Philippines

By the Bohol Chronicle

Police Senior Superintendent Anthony Obenza urged the police force in the province to sustain the fight against all forms of criminality as he assumed command yesterday of the Bohol Police Provincial Office (BPOO).

At the command turnover ceremony yesterday at Camp Dagohoy , SSupt. Obenza recognized the good crime solution efficiency of the BPPO under police director SSupt.
       
Edgardo Ingking who served as provincial commander for almost three years (2 years and 11 months).

SSupt. Obenza, a member of Class '85 of the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA), was installed as new BPPO director by Chief Supt. Lani-O Nerez, Regional Director of the Police Regional Office (PRO-7).

In his acceptance speech, the new police provincial director called on the 48 chiefs of police (from 47 towns and 1 city) in the province to continue its support to the provincial command in order to deter threats of criminal elements and sustain, if not improve, the performance of the entire police force in Bohol.

Obenza, who was head of the PRO-7 personnel division prior to his assignment here, assured the outgoing police chief SSupt. Ingking that he will live up to the good standing of the BPPO under the latter's leadership.

Ingking's tour-of-duty in the province is marked with his drive to professionalize and cleanse the police ranks of abusive and incompetent cops.

Obenza pledged to the station chiefs that the BPPO will always be ready to assist them in the fight against crime and maintaining peace and order in Bohol .
         
The new provincial commander said cooperation is the key for the police organization to perform their mission which is to enforce the law, maintain peace and order, prevent and control crimes, and ensure public safety and security - with the support of the community.

Obenza, recently promoted to senior superintendent, is from the town of Talibon and holds as master's degree in public administration.

The new police chief was personally chosen by Gov. Erico Aumentado as replacement of Ingking, from a list of three recommended officers to replace Ingking which is the normal procedure of the PNP.

"BE NEUTRAL"

With the elections barely five months away, CSupt. Nerez urged Bohol policemen to observe professionalism in the performance of their duty, regardless of their own political leanings, and it should never influence the performance of their duties.

The regional police director said policemen should distance themselves from politicians and refrain from participating in partisan politics.

Nerez said it is a challenge on the part of the new provincial director to ensure that the police in Bohol should not get entangled with electoral predicaments by staying loyal to the PNP organization and not to any political party or politician.

The PRO-7 chief explained that the replacement of SSupt. Ingking is in accordance with PNP guidelines that city or provincial police directors who are serving over two years in their posts should be reassigned to give way for the promotion of other police officials.

Due to Obenza's designation here in the province, the PRO-7 command also undergoes a reshuffling among key officers while some of its senior staff also needs to be relieved.

Those included in the reshuffling are SSupt. Vicente Loot, from being PRO-7 Chief of Staff to his new designation as Deputy Regional Director for Operations (DRDO). SSupt. Ingking will replace Loot as new Chief of Staff.

SSupt. Marcelo Garbo, who heads the DRDO will assume as new Deputy Regional Director for Administration (DRDA) while PRO-7 public information officer Supt. Ernesto Agas, also former deputy provincial commander of Ingking, will be the new chief of the PRO-7 personnel division, the post vacated by Obenza.

Yesterday's turnover ceremony was attended by local government officials led by Vice Gov. Julius Caesar Herrera and commanders of the Philippine Army assigned in the province.

In his message, Herrera said he hopes the new provincial police leadership will have a continuity of improving service to the Boholano people in maintaining peace and order.

INGKING'S SERVICE

During his stint as provincial commander, SSupt. Ingking was able to implement the construction of new standardized police station buildings, bring in new mobile patrol cars, the establishment of SWAT and the assignment of more police personnel here.

During Ingking's stint as provincial director since January 2007, the provincial command gained so many awards both in the regional and national categories.

Lately, the Bohol police under Ingking was recognized for topping other police offices in the implementation of the National Firearms Control Program (NFC).

The BPPO accounted for a total of 1,096 firearms in its drive since August to September.

BPPO's total haul is 23 percent of the estimated 4,232 loose firearms from threat groups and criminal elements or those basically un-renewed in the last years.

By the Bohol Chronicle

After the deadline for the withdrawal of candidacies and the substitution of candidates officially ended on Monday, two members of the dominant Lakas-Kampi CMD will still be slugging it out in the second district congressional race.

Gov. Erico Aumentado and Trinidad Mayor Judith Cajes are both determined to win the Congress seat to be vacated by the latter's husband, three-term Rep. Roberto Cajes.

While anticipating a tight race to watch, some political watchers were expecting Mayor Cajes would withdraw at the last minute and avert a showdown between party allies and keep the ruling coalition's "unity ticket" intact.
       
But despite having been stripped of her certificate of nomination and acceptance (Cona) by the Lakas-Kampi national directorate, the lady Cajes is pushing on with her bid.

Reports reaching the Chronicle revealed that the Trinidad mayor continues making her rounds in the northern corridor with her husband closely guarding their barangay leaders making regular loyalty checks.

Aumentado on the other hand will have to mount a tight campaign to prevail over his second district rival who undeniably possesses the machinery and logistics being the most influential politician in the district.

At the 5 p.m. cut-off for the filing of COCs last Monday, the provincial Comelec office reported no more changes in the slate of three major political parties having candidates for the positions of governor, vice governor, board members and congressmen in the three districts of the province.

Election assistant Malou Cempron said only board member Concepcion Lim has filed for substitution of Rep. Adam Jala who withdrew for the position of vice governor under the Lakas-Kampi.

December 14, was the deadline for withdrawal of candidacies and the filing of COC for substitute candidates under Comelec guidelines.

Provincial board member and Liga ng mga Barangay president Lim filed her COC Monday last week to be the official running mate of gubernatorial bet Rep Chatto.

By Sebastian Usher
BBC Arab affairs editor

More than 6,000 people have been stopped by the police for offences on Dubai's beaches, records show.

Infractions range from ogling women, to kissing, to people swimming fully clothed or in their underwear.

Dubai's authorities have stepped up their policing of what they regard as offensive behaviour.

The Gulf emirate is popular with tourists and Western expats. But most of the people stopped are workers from developing countries.

The police records detail offences logged in the first 10 months of 2009.

Conservative country

Dubai has hit the headlines for its economic problems recently.

But the case of two Britons accused of having sex on a beach last year was one of the biggest stories to come out of emirate.

The case highlighted the dangers expatriates face in Dubai for behaviour that might be frowned upon back home but is unlikely to result in a prison sentence.

Dubai's dizzying growth has attracted more than three million expatriates and many tourists, drawn to its outlandish attractions, luxury hotels and year-round sunshine.

But Dubai remains a conservative Muslim country, where drinking alcohol, sex outside marriage and homosexuality are banned.

A teenager flashing her breasts in the middle of a New Zealand road paid for her drunken revelry when a distracted driver ran into her.

Cherelle Dudfield, 18, was dared to flash passing cars in the southern city of Invercargill after a night out drinking with friends.

She had exposed herself to a couple of cars from a strip in the middle of the road when the stunt went awry.

"I saw a car coming towards me on the center lane, so I decided to run and I got hit," Dudfield told commercial television news.

She was taken to hospital but suffered only a few cuts and bruises after rolling over the bonnet of the car and cracking the windscreen.

The teenager was convicted this week of disorderly conduct and fined in an Invercargill court for her September exploits.

Dudfield said she had learned her lesson and had a message for anyone else considering a similar stunt.

"Don't be me, don't be stupid, don't get drunk and stand in the middle of the road and flash anyone because it hurts when you get hit." - AFP

Two 10-year-old boys have been charged with raping a girl in west London.

Each faces two counts of attacking a female under the age of 13, following advice from the Crown Prosecution Service, the Metropolitan Police said.

They were arrested after an eight-year-old alleged she had been assaulted while playing in a park off College Way, Hayes, on 27 October.

The pair, who cannot be named for legal reasons, are due to appear at Uxbridge Magistrates' Court later.

Police were called by the girl's family after she returned home from the park.

Officers from the specialist Sapphire Unit, which investigates allegations of rape and sexual assault, have been dealing with the case. - bbc news

Email message from the scammer purporting to be Leo Udtohan.

Kumusta ka ngayon? Ikinalulungkot ko ako ay hindi ipaalam sa inyo ang tungkol sa aking paglalakbay sa England para sa isang programa na tinatawag na "Empowering Youth sa Fight Pangako, HIV / AIDS, Kahirapan at Kakulangan ng Edukasyon, Ito ay bilang isang napaka malungkot at masamang sandali para sa akin sa paglipas ng dito at ang mga kasalukuyang kondisyon na ako natagpuan ang aking sarili ay lubhang mahirap para sa akin sa explain.These mga tao ay hindi kahit na payagan ang
mga tao na magsulat sa katutubong dialects. Kasama ko sa ilang mga kahila-hilakbot na sitwasyon at ang tunay na ako ng pagpunta sa kailangan ang iyong mga kagyat na tulong.

Ako ay talagang maiiwan tayo sa England dahil Nakalimutan ko ang aking maliit na bag sa Taxi na kung saan ang aking pera, pasaporte, mga dokumento at iba pang mga mahahalagang bagay ay iningatan sa aking mga daan sa Hotel am pagpapanatiling, ako ay nakaharap sa isang hard time dito dahil ako ay walang pera sa ako sa malinaw na ang aking Hotel bill, ngayon ako ay utang ng isang sum $ 1,200 para sa aking Hotel kuwenta.

Mangyari lamang na kailangan ko sa inyo upang matulungan ako sa labas ng isang kabuuan ng $ 2,500 mapilit kaya na ako ay maaaring ayusin sa paglalakbay at bumalik sa bahay, kailangan ko ng tulong na ito kaya marami at sa tamang oras dahil sa ako sa isang kahila-hilakbot at laot ngayon, gagawin ko kahit na hindi may pera sa feed ng aking sarili para sa isang araw na ako ay gutom, Mangyaring subukan upang maunawaan kung paano mahalaga at kagyat na ako na kailangan ng iyong tulong.

Ako sa pagpapadala mo ang e-mail mula sa City Library at ako lamang magkaroon ng ilang oras, ako ay pahalagahan kung ano ang kaya kahit minsan maaari mong kayang magpadala ako kaagad sa pamamagitan ng Western Union o Money Gram at ipinangako ko na magbayad ng utang ang iyong pera sa lalong madaling i bumalik sa bahay. Mangyaring Panatilihin ito sa e-mail sa pribadong hanggang sa makakuha ako ng ligtas pabalik sa bahay dahil ako ay hindi kailanman pinaghahanap kahit sino upang makakuha ng nag-aalala tungkol sa akin, huwag ipaalam sa isa sa anumang tungkol sa aking sitwasyon sa ibang bansa lang magsulit sa tulong maaari mo sa akin kung ang pag-aalaga sa iyo, ito ay napakahalaga upang masiyahan ako. ibaba ang aking impormasyon sa pagpapadala ng pera sa akin upang ako ay maaari itong kunin at i-clear lahat ng mga kinakailangang mga bayarin sa malinaw na sa akin sa labas ng s*** na ito.
mabait sa akin ipadala ang pera sa pamamagitan ng Western Union o Money Gram.

Ito ay Detalye sa paglipat ng pera sa ibaba:

Pangalan: Leo Udtohan
Address: 16 Leinster Square, Bayswater, W2 4PR
                              Inglatera.
                              Text Tanong: Aking mga kulay
                              Sagot: Blue

Ang Konsulado lamang nabura ang akin ng aking mga paglalakbay sa mga dokumento at tiket dahil ako ay dumating sa bilang isang turista at hindi sa mga opisyal na layunin. Dapat ko bang makuha ang pera reimbursed agad sa aking pagbabalik. Kukunin ko ay naghihintay sa iyo sa Hotel lobby para sa iyong mail.

Salamat sa iyo kaya magkano, Paki-minsan ikaw ay tapos na ang pagpapadala sa akin ang pera ninyo akong tulungan i-scan ng isang kopya ng resibo ng Western union o tulong sa akin isulat ang buong detalye.

Halaga ng nagpadala ng: Money Transfer Control numero (MTCN):
Nagpadala Buong Pangalan at Address:
Salamat masyado at naghihintay para sa iyong Maaga reply. Ay talagang pinasasalamatan ang inyong suporta at gabay.

Paumanhin para sa anumang abala am ay maaaring maging sanhi ng sa iyo. Pagpalain ng Diyos sa iyo. So let's mabatid.

Leo

Despite the barbs of comedians and the spectacular bust-ups documented in the gossip magazines, marriage really is good for you, international research has found.

A study of nearly 34,500 people in 15 countries found married people are less likely to suffer from depression, anxiety and substance abuse, clinical psychologist Kate Scott of New Zealand's University of Otago said Tuesday.

"What our study points to is that the marital relationship offers a lot of mental health benefits for both men and women, and that the distress and disruption associated with ending marriage can make people vulnerable to developing mental disorders," Scott said.

Being separated, divorced, or widowed is associated with increased risk of mental health disorders in both men and women, particularly with depression in men and drugs and alcohol abuse in women.

"One of the more important findings is that in recent years it has been asserted that marriage is better for men than for women in terms of mental health. This study does not agree with that position," Scott said.

"We found that compared to never getting married, getting married is good for both men and women in terms of most mental health disorders."

But the study did find that men were less likely to become depressed in their first marriage than women, and Scott said this might be due to women being more likely to follow the traditional role of a wife first time around.

Other studies have found that as gender roles have become less traditional, with women working more and becoming better educated, female depression has fallen.

The latest study also found getting married reduced the risk of substance abuse more for women than for men.

This might be due to evidence that women cut their alcohol consumption sharply when they became pregnant and this often continued while the children were young, Scott said.

The study was based on the WHO World Mental Health surveys across developing and developed countries conducted over the past decade. - Reuters, AFP

Lava glows while cascading on the slopes of Mayon volcano as seen from Lingnon Hill in Legazpi city, 500 km (310 miles) south of Manila December 15, 2009. Philippine authorities started evacuating about 50,000 people from around the country's most active volcano on Tuesday as it spewed burning mud and rocks. Mayon volcano, famed for its near-perfect cone shape in a coconut-growing region of the central Philippines, started to release lava early this week and vulcanologists are expecting a major eruption in the next few days. - Reuters

BBC News - Afghanistan fallen: 'I have to keep going'

Chilean Olympic weightlifter Elizabeth Poblete has given birth to a baby boy during a training session, without having known she was pregnant.

Ms Poblete, 22, who lives in Brazil, said she had felt unwell but had had no idea she was expecting a baby.

The boy was three months premature and was taken to hospital with his mother, where he remains in intensive care.

The hospital in Sao Paulo denied reports it forced Ms Poblete to leave after she was unable to pay for care.

Ms Poblete began to feel unwell during training on 8 December, as she was preparing to take part in a competition.

Shortly after, she gave birth to a baby weighing only 1.2kg (2.25lbs) and measuring about 34cm (14 inches).

Both were taken to hospital in Sao Paulo but Ms Poblete has since been discharged, reportedly telling local media she could not afford to continue receiving treatment.

Ms Poblete came 12th in the 75kg women's category at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing. - bbc news

By Paolo Montecillo
Philippine Daily Inquirer

Ayala-led Globe Telecom Inc. is spending nearly P3 billion as its contribution to the construction of an ultra-high capacity fiber-optic cable that will improve the speed and reliability of Internet connectivity in the region.

Officials on Thursday announced that the company had signed an agreement with other telecommunication firms in neighboring countries for the construction of the new Southeast Asia Japan Cable (SJC).

Globe said the project was scheduled for completion in 2012 and would support the company’s continuing expansion to provide Internet services to local business process outsourcing (BPO) firms.

“It has always been Globe’s thrust to provide its customers with superior experience by delivering pioneering innovations to the Philippines,” company president and chief executive Ernesto Cu said.

Gil Genio, head of Globe’s carrier services, said: “Globe’s participation in the SJC project supports the continued growth of our broadband services and further enhances our capabilities in supporting offshoring and outsourcing in the Philippines.”

The SJC will cost about $400 million to build, with the Philippine firm spending about $60 million, or about P2.76 billion, as its share in the expenses.

“This is already part of our 2010 capital expenditures,” Cu said in a briefing late Thursday.

The company has set a budget of $500 million for its capital expenses next yearâ€"roughly the same amount it expects to spend this year.

Broadband Internet has been tagged as the local telecom firms’ next area for growth, with the telephony market for traditional voice call and text messaging services already having matured in the last decade.

With an expected capacity of 17 terabytes a second, this will be the world’s highest capacity cable system.

To illustrate this capacity, a report from the US federal government showed that as of last May, the US Library of Congress contained about one terabyte of data. Globe’s share in the bandwidth will be around 1-1.2 terabytes a second.

The company’s expenses will not only cover its share in the construction of the cable, but will also cover the upgrade of Globe’s own networks to accommodate the upgrade. The country will be connected to the cable through a landing station that will be built in Nasugbu, Batangas.

Genio noted that the new cable system, once completed, would not only increase connectivity between countries in the region but would also serve as a back-up system in case other Internet systems in Asia fail for any reason.

Companies that will be involved in the project are Google (USA), KDDI (Japan), Network i2i (India), Reliance Globalcom and Telemedia Pacific Inc. Ltd. (Hong Kong and Indonesia).

Globe said companies from Singapore and Malaysia would also be in on the deal, but disclosure rules in their respective countries kept them from announcing their involvement for now.

More and more money is spent on military purposes, while science and health are far from doing well, let alone benefit from similar budgets. While it's hard to argue that national security and defense are crucial tasks, it is also important to know that only the missile defense program that's been going on for about eight years has cost around $100 billion. As a part of this program, on December 5th 2008, the US Military performed a test during which a long-range ballistic missile was shot down.

Taking out this missile was a demonstration of the ability to thwart a possible attack coming from potentially hostile nations such as Iran or North Korea, according to senior defense officials. The missile that simulated the attack was sent off from Kodiak Island in Alaska, at 3:04pm Eastern time, was tracked by a number of ground and ship-based radars at the same time, then brought down 25 minutes later by a "kill vehicle" about 3,000 kilometers far, above the Pacific Ocean, as stated by the Missile Defense Agency.

"It was the largest, most complex test we have ever done," shared Lieutenant General Patrick O'Reilly, chief of the Missile Defense Agency, during a Pentagon news conference following the test, as quoted by the Washington Post. "The key to our protection [...] is to be able to have all of these different sensors simultaneously tracking" and identifying the same item, which happened for the first time with this test, he explained. "The kill vehicle was sent to a very accurate spot in space," and this achievement "does give us great confidence," he added. - softpedia.com

The Pentagon has lately taken a very active interest in telepathy research, and has started pumping millions of dollars in funding of “silent communication techniques.” The goal is to create soldiers that are able to better coordinate their actions, without having to go through the inconveniences of telecommunication devices. No matter how high-end they are, they are prone to errors, and cases in which the receiver of a message misinterpreted what the other was saying were not seldom.

Thus far, more than $4 million have been invested in telepathy-related research in the United States. Behind the new line of research is the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), which has lately begun to be compared with the “mad science division” of the Pentagon.

Wired reports that, for the next fiscal year, the agency will receive an important sum of money for beginning investigations into the Silent Talk program. According to available information, it will “allow user-to-user communication on the battlefield without the use of vocalized speech through analysis of neural signals.” This basically means that the soldiers will be able to read each other's minds.

Last year, the Army also funded DARPA with an additional $4 million, for the same project. The goal is to be able to establish a communication channel between the brains of two servicemen, for example, through the use of a computer-mediated interface. Basically, it would translate a soldier's brain waves into a standard language, and then send the message to the receiver, and vice-versa. Scientifically speaking, the brain creates a sort of “pre-speech” impulse before the actual words are uttered.

DARPA's plan is to intercept those electrical signals with electroencephalogram (EEG) machines, and to convert them into standard language. The message would then be immediately forwarded to the intended recipient. The obstacles that the agency currently faces could, however, prove insurmountable. That is to say, experts involved in Silent Talk first need to make sure that all human brains encode “pre-speech” in roughly the same manner, and that the difference between individual cortices is not too great.-softpedia.com

Scientists at the Monash University announce the creation of a new technique for detecting and diagnosing mental and neurological illnesses, which they argue is so efficient, that it's able to detect depression in less than an hour. The new method has been dubbed with the catchy name “electrovestibulography,” and its creator, MU biomedical engineer Brian Lithgow, says that it can be likened to an “ECG for the mind.” In electrocardiography (ECG), the electrical activity of the heart is recorded from outside the body, via sensors placed on the skin.

“The patient sits in a specially designed tilt chair that triggers electrical responses in their balance system. A gel-tipped electrode placed in the individual's ear canal silences interfering noise so that these meaningful electrical responses are captured and recorded. The responses are then compared to the distinct biomarkers indicative of particular CNS disorders, allowing diagnosis to be made in under an hour,” Lithgow explains about how the new diagnostics system operates.

The entire method relies on detecting, recording and interpreting the activity of the vestibular system, which is intimately connected to an area of the primitive brain that is related to controlling emotions and behavior. Upon examining this system, the MU expert realized the potential that it had on determining mental-health statuses, and set out to create a method of tapping into this potential. In a series of experiments conducted at the university's Alfred Psychiatry Research Centre, the scientist analyzed various types of Central Nervous System (CNS) disorders, such as depression and schizophrenia, and determined a series of reoccurring patterns, or biomarkers, for each of them. - softpedia.com

Scientists in Norway have recently determined that exposure to art forms tend to have a very positive impact on the life of average individuals. The study concluded that people who go to see concerts, painting or sculpture exhibitions, visit art galleries, or make music tend to be a lot less depressed than other citizens, and to feel healthier overall. The research was conducted on an impressive batch of roughly 50,000 individuals, all of them from a single county in the middle of Norway.

The finds were especially valid in the case of those involved in making art, such as playing an instrument, singing, painting, sculpting and dancing. The individuals that were analyzed in the new investigation came from all socio-economic backgrounds, and were also very likely to represent different lifestyles, and so the study may be valid for the general population of Norway and beyond as well, AlphaGalileo reports.

The researchers used a variety of means to collect their data from all 48,289 participants. Among these methods they included interviews, questionnaires, clinical examination, the collection of blood and urine samples, as well as collecting detailed health profiles on a large part of the test participants.

“There is a positive relationship between cultural participation and self-perceived health for both women and men. For men, there is also a positive relationship between cultural participation and depression, in that there is less depression among men who participate in cultural activities, although this is not true for women,” says Nord-Trondelag Health Study (HUNT) researcher professor Jostein Holmen. He first presented the findings in late November in Stjordal, at a Norwegian health conference. The full results have not yet been published in a journal.

“To contribute to and to be involved with a positive cultural experience is extremely energizing. That it has now been documented more than ever before that the experience has such a positive effect on health ought to contribute to a greater focus on cultural experiences. We in the Trondheim Soloists always try to ensure that each concert provides a positive overall experience for people, and we work with the belief that what we are doing has a positive and healthy effect,” says Steinar Larsen. softpedia.com

Swedish and Norwegian mobile users could be among the first to use a fourth-generation (4G) mobile network.

Mobile phone firm TeliaSonera has completed work on two 4G networks in Oslo and Stockholm.

The company said that the first customers will be able to start using the networks in early 2010.

Despite the launch of the network, no handsets can yet use 4G. Initially customers will connect via a dongle and a laptop.

Fourth-generation, 4G, networks are based around the Long Term Evolution (LTE) technology and downlink data speeds can hit 100 megabits per second - about ten times quicker than the fastest 3G networks.

The technology has been designed to overlay existing 3G networks and most operators have committed to upgrading to the faster system.

TeliaSonera said it was recruiting customers to pilot the network during the first quarter of 2010.

It has released no information about the cost of connecting to the high-speed network. The dongles for connecting to the LTE network are made by Samsung.

Phone equipment maker Ericsson has put together the network in Stockholm, Sweden and Chinese firm Huawei is behind the one in Oslo, Norway. Both networks cover the central regions of both cities. - bbc news

Crack agents of the Manila Police Anti-Narcotics Unit were on surveillance of a cemetery where the sale and use of prohibited drugs were rumored to be rampant. The team saw a man with reddish and glassy eyes walking unsteadily towards them, but he immediately veered away upon seeing the policemen. The team approached the man, introduced themselves as peace officers, then asked what he had in his clenched fist. Because the man refused to answer, a policeman pried the fist open and saw a plastic sachet filled with crystalline substance. The team then took the man into custody and submitted the contents of the sachet to forensic examination. The crystalline substance in the sachet turned out to be shabu. The man was accordingly charged in court.

During the trial, the accused:

   1.
      challenged the validity of his arrest;   (2%) and
   2.
      objected to the admission in evidence of the prohibited drug, claiming that it was obtained in an illegal search and seizure.   (2%)

Decide with reasons.

Nope, nat-cast. It came out in the 2009 Bar Exam held last September.

In a criminal prosecution for murder, the prosecution presented, as witness, an employee of the Manila Hotel who produced in court a videotape recording showing the heated exchange between the accused and the victim that took place at the lobby of the hotel barely 30 minutes before the killing. The accused objects to the admission of the videotape recording on the ground that it was taken without his knowledge or consent, in violation of his right to privacy and the Anti-Wire Tapping law. Resolve the objection with reasons.   (3%)

To address the pervasive problem of gambling, Congress is considering the following options: (1) prohibit all forms of gambling; (2) allow gambling only on Sundays; (3) allow gambling only in government-owned casinos; and (4) remove all prohibitions against gambling but impose a tax equivalent to 30% on all winnings.

   1.
      If Congress chooses the first option and passes the corresponding law absolutely prohibiting all forms of gambling, can the law be validly attacked on the ground that it is an invalid exercise of police power? Explain your answer.   (2%)
   2.
      If Congress chooses the last option and passes the corresponding law imposing a 30% tax on all winnings and prizes won from gambling, would the law comply with the constitutional limitations on the exercise of the power of taxation? Explain your answer.   (2%)

The Municipality of Pinatukdao is sued for damages arising from injuries sustained by a pedestrian who was hit by a glass pane that fell from a dilapidated window frame of the municipal hall. The municipality files a motion to dismiss the complaint, invoking state immunity from suit. Resolve the motion with reasons.   (3%)

The Municipality of Bulalakaw, Leyte, passed Ordinance No. 1234, authorizing the expropriation of two parcels of land situated in the poblacion as the site of a freedom park, and appropriating the funds needed therefor. Upon review, the |Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Leyte disapproved the ordinance because the municipality has an existing freedom park which, though smaller in size, is still suitable for the purpose, and to pursue expropriation would be needless expenditure of the people's money. Is the disapproval of the ordinance correct? Explain your answer.   (2%)

Despite lingering questions about his Filipino citizenship and his one-year residence in the district, Gabriel filed his certificate of candidacy for congressman before the deadline set by law. His opponent, Vito, hires you as lawyer to contest Gabriel's candidacy.

   1.
      Before election day, what action or actions will you institute against Gabriel, and before which court, commission or tribunal will you file such action/s? Reasons.   (2%)
   2.
      If, during the pendency of such action/s but before election day, Gabriel withdraws his certificate of candidacy, can he be substituted as candidate? If so, by whom and why? If not, why not?   (2%)
   3.
      If the action/s instituted should be dismissed with finality before the election, and Gabriel assumes office after being proclaimed the winner in the election, can the issue of his candidacy and/or citizenship and residence still be questioned? If so, what action or actions may be filed and where? If not, why not?   (2%)

Vice Mayor Sara Duterte appealed to resident here for more patience and understanding for hundreds of lumad carolers from all over the region flock to the city every Christmas in the hope of receiving something from households.

The vice mayor wants people to understand lumad carolers, who’re now starting to teem across the city.

“It’s Christmas. Let’s think of how we can make people happy,” Duterte said.

Duterte said the indigenous carolers from the hinterlands spend Christmas in the city because of the tokens they receive from people in the streets.

Besides working the streets, they go from house to house, asking for a Christmas gifts, a hand-me-down blouse, a few coins, an old pair of slippers, and others.

The carolers are housed by the city government where they are allowed to stay until December 25. They usually spend their nights in Toril, Matina Aplaya and Bankerohan gymnasiums.

Aside from a place to sleep, City Hall provides them with basic necessities like potable water, good sanitation facilities, and some food.

Local residents, however, have complained about sanitation issues arising from the descending horde.

Many have pointed out the foul odor that reeks from their government-issued makeshift homes, usually resulting from defective or overused toilets.

This prompted the Vice Mayor to plead for the public’s understanding.

“Instead of complaining about the smell, why don’t you offer them water or something to be used to cleanse their surroundings,” she asked.

“The facilities (installed by the local government) are complete but due to the volume of people using them, it has become a concern. But we see to it that the things they need in their quarters are provided,” she said. (PNA)

The government security forces have shifted from pursuit to punitive actions to neutralize the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) rebels who attacked the Basilan provincial jail as well as to recapture the 31 inmates that were sprang out of the detention facility, a top military official disclosed Monday.

Western Mindanao Command (Wesmincom) chief Lt. Gen. Benjamin Mohammad Dolorfino said they are focusing on two areas where the escapees as well as the attackers have fled after the attack at the Basilan provincial jail.

A group of MILF rebels have attacked last Sunday the Basilan provincial jail and sprang out 31 inmates--12 Abu Sayyaf bandits, five MILF rebels and 14 common criminals--from the detention facility in barangay Sumagdang, Isabela City, the capital of Basilan province.

Two of the five MILF rebels identified as Asnawi Laksaw alias Dan Laksaw, and Kamsa Limaya, were among the suspects in the July 10, 2007 ambush and beheading of marine troops in Al-Barka, Basilan, Dolorfino said.

Dolorfino disclosed that of the 31 escapees, 21 including Laksaw and Limaya fled to the town of Al-Barka while the 10 others fled to Sumisip municipality.

“We have shifted from pursuit to punitive (actions), so right now we are conducting combat operations focused in two areas,” Dolorfino disclosed.

He said the combat operations is coupled with law enforcement actions “in order to reverse the resurgence of terrorism and kidnapping in Basilan.”

He said that a battalion of marine troops from this province was sent to Basilan as augmentation forces in the conduct of the combat operations.

A marine company was pulled out from the province of Tawi-Tawi to replace the troops that were sent to Basilan from this province, he said.

Dolorfino said they have filed Monday a complaint for violation of the ceasefire agreement against the MILF before the government peace panel's Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH), citing last Sunday's incident was a deliberate attack by the Basilan-based MILF rebels.

The complaint would be forwarded by the government's CCCH to the joint CCCH which comprises of the representatives from the government and MILF peace panels for proper action.

Dolorfino said they have also demanded the MILF to hand over to the government the 10 MILF members to include Laksaw and Limaya to answer the criminal liabilities for their involvement in last Sunday's attack at the Basilan provincial jail.

He said the anti-terrorism council is offering P2 million reward for the recapture of Laksaw and P100,000 for the recapture of each of the common criminals. - PNA

By Mar S. Arguelles

PNA- Mt. Mayon spewed a series of ash column clouds Monday and last Friday which according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) are signs that the volcano is on heightened state of unrest that may lead to an eruption.

Phivolcs said at about 7:04 a.m. Monday a minor ash explosion took place that spawned a grayish ash clouds while another ash puffing happened 7:59 p.m. Friday.

The two ash puffing events were triggered by explosions type quakes that lasted for about three minutes on Friday and another two and half minutes on Monday.

Phivolcs volcanologist observed the Monday ash explosion that produced a grayish ash cloud which was blown by strong winds down slope towards the southwest, preventing it from rising above the crater.

While the Friday explosion, Phivolcs instruments had recorded the explosion type quake but scientist failed to observed whether the explosion produced a brownish ash column due to heavy cloud cover prevailing that time.

Phivolcs seismic network recorded 43 volcanic earthquakes Sunday while 47 volcanic earthquakes was detected on Friday.

The fluctuating volcanic quakes signifies that magma is developing and climbing the volcano’s vent.

The agency seismic network recorded the event as an explosion type earthquake on Friday was accompanied by rumbling sounds that was reportedly heard by residents at barangay Bonga and Banadero a village located at Southeast flank of the volcano of the city.

Reports have it that some residents in these area who heard the explosion and rumbling sounds scampered and move to safer grounds.

Volcanologist said Mt. Mayon’s had spewed ash clouds for the fifth time since September, saying that the mountains display of interval of ash explosion are indication that the volcano’s eruptive stage is following the 1999 eruption.

Volcanologist observed that the volcano’s display of fluctuating ground deformation, SO2 gas emission, quakes, ash puffing, crater glow and evolving lava dome at the volcano’s summit are signs that magma is building up and moving towards the crater vent.

The volcano emitted 535 tons of Sulfur dioxide gas on Monday a little higher than that of the 473 tons spewed on Friday.

The heightened abnormality exhibited by Mayon volcano prompted Albay Gov. Joey Salceda, who is also the Provincial Disaster Coordinating Council (PDCC) chairman, to direct various town and barangay disaster to be on 24-hours alert for any event that volcano’s restive condition worsens.

Farmers, residents, mountain climbers and orchid collectors were advised to avoid the recommended danger zones in the southeast and southwest sectors covering the municipalities of Daraga, Camalig, Guinobatan, and the cities of Ligao and Legazpi.

He directed town disaster councils in these areas to be ready for any eventuality and to evacuate residents to safer grounds in case the volcano’s abnormalities worsens and Phivolcs raise the volcano alert status to a higher level.

The PDCC has distributed megaphones and wireless radio communication equipments, bikes, transistor radios to hundred of villages affected by the impending eruption, and has prepositioned 35 military trucks, nine ambulances in various affected towns for evacuation purposes in case Phivolcs decides to raise the volcano’s alert level to three.

He directed the police and military authorities manning the 12 checkpoints surrounding the volcano’s designated danger zone to make this area as a ”no man's” land.

Close to 2,000 regular employees of the city government here will receive an additional Christmas bonus of P30,000 each, according to Mayor Jerry P. Treñas.

The bonus doubled the amount that was given last year amounting to P15,000.

Treñas said the bonus will be released Dec. 17 to 19 if the supplemental budget containing the bonuses is approved on Wednesday.

Meantime, aside from regular employees casuals, health, workers, police auxiliaries and traffic aides will also receive P2,500 each.

All barangays captains will be given financial assistance worth P4,000 each while barangays councilors, secretaries and treasurers will each receive P3,000.

Around 25,000 indigents will also benefit from the gift-giving project that is slated before the end of the month. (PNA)

The government will prioritize the speed-up reconstruction and support the economic recovery in Luzon as part of the rehabilitation efforts to areas heavily devastated by the recent typhoons.

This was told on Monday by the government’s economic managers to the local business community here during the Philippine economic briefing on post-disaster rehabilitation at the Clark Holiday Inn Hotel here.

Finance Secretary Margarito B. Teves, who is chairman of the Special National Public Reconstruction Commission, said that part of the government’s rehabilitation efforts are concentrating of the rebuilding of physical infrastructure, enhancing access to social services such as medical care and education and helping the small and medium enterprises (SMEs), the backbone of local economies.

“We are also taking longer-term measures to enhance the region’s flood prevention mechanisms and resilience to climate-related challenges,” Teves said.

He said it is the priority of the government to bring normalcy back to the lives of the people in the region and ensure their economies recovery as quickly as possible.

“We hope to emerge victorious despite the recent typhoons, the Finance secretary said, adding that the government is working with various entities such as the local government units (LGUs), government-owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs) and government financial institutions (GFIs).

Based on the National Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC) estimates, the cost of damages by "Ondoy" to agriculture in the region was at P9.579 billion, the highest among all the regions.

The cost of damages to infrastructure was registered at P2.767 billion, the second highest among all the regions in the country. - PNA

President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo on Monday checked on the progress in the ongoing construction of the Laguindingan International Airport here.

The President, together with Misamis Oriental Governor Oscar Moreno and other local officials, boarded a coaster that passed through the Laguindingan Airport access road en route to the airport site.

“The access road is beautiful,” the President said, obviously impressed with the more than four-kilometer, four-lane access road.

The P187.76-million access road will connect to the Iligan (Lanao del Norte)-Cagayan de Oro City (Misamis Oriental)-Butuan City (Agusan del Norte) national highway.

The President, upon reaching the airport site, walked through the terminal building which is still under construction. She then inspected the runway.

The Laguindingan International Airport sits on a 4.17- square kilometer site in Barangay Moog, Laguindingan [1] and is located 46 kilometers from the existing Lumbia Airport in Cagayan de Oro City.

Upon its completion, it will be the fourth international airport in Mindanao, after the Francisco Bangoy International Airport in Davao City, Zamboanga International Airport in Zamboanga City, and General Santos International Airport. It will also be the first international airport in Northern Mindanao or Region 10.

Construction of the new airport will be completed by 2011, as the project is now 54 percent accomplished.

The President broke ground on the project on January 11, 2006.

The Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) said civil works are being done by the Korean contractor Hanjin Heavy Industries and Construction Co.  - Philippine News Agency (PNA)

In its committed effort to provide health and medical service opportunities to the Boholano community, the Provincial Government of Bohol thru Governor Erico B. Aumentado and Vice Governor Julius Caesar F. Herrera is leaning no stone unturned in paving the way for another big medical mission to be offered for the Boholanos at the start of the first quarter of the new year.

Mrs. Fancy S. Baluyot- Consultant, Health & Social Services advised that a team of Filipino and American doctors and nurses from Texas, USA headed by Dr. Gloria Zappia; Kaiser Permanente Hospital-Ucla headed by Dr. Scott Lentz and Yale College of Medicine numbering to 100 missioners is set to conduct a week long Medical and Surgical Mission on January 17-21, 2010 here in the province of Bohol. The group aims to provide free medical services and surgical operations simultaneously at Gov. Celestino Gallares Memorial Hospital thru Chief of Hospital, Dr. Nenita M. Po and Bohol Cultural Center to benefit thousands of Boholano indigent patients.

SP Committee on Health Chairman, Dr. Cesar Tomas M. Lopez added that the abovementioned scheduled free mission will include corrective surgical operations for goiter, myoma, ovarian cyst, hernia, gall bladder and colostomy numbering to 120 cases. The activity is set to cover 8,000 medical and 1,000 dental cases of pre-screened beneficiary.

Acting Provincial Administrator, Atty. Handel Lagunay likewise advised that free health services and medicines are also set to be provided to indigent beneficiaries on the scheduled medical mission days sponsored by the Provincial Government Of Bohol assisted by the Philippine Gift of Life thru President and Chief Executive Officer, Mrs. Fancy S. Baluyot supported by the Department of Health thru DOH Secretary, Dr. Francisco Duque III and Assistant Secretary, Dr. Elmer G. Punzalan among other support group and volunteers headed by Atty. Tomas D. Abapo, Jr.

Provincial Health Officer, Dr. Reymoses Cabagnot is hereby informing the public to visit the Office of the Consultant for Health & Social Services located at the Ground Floor, Provincial Capitol Complex, Tagbilaran City or contact phone number (038) 501-9196, for more inquiries or detailed information on this upcoming humanitarian mission.

FCB depositors can now buy goods at the Bohol Quality Mall using their PITAKArds.

The First Consolidated Bank has installed this week Electronic Fund Tranfer/Point-of-Sale (EFT/POS) terminals at the BQ Mall,allowing FCB depositors to pay for their purchases using their PITAKArd. BQ Mall is the most recently accredited merchants of the bank.

As of today, the FCB accredited business establishments are Alturas Supermarket (Tagbilaran), Alturas Supermarket (Talibon), Du Ek Sam (Lesage St.), Du Ek Sam (Grupo St.), Du Ek Sam (CPG Ave.), Du Ek Sam (JA Clarin St.), Du Ek Sam (Jagna), Du Ek Sam (Ubay), Du Ek Sam (Tubigon), Du Ek Sam (Loon), GJ Car Care, Island City Mall, Plaza Marcela, Shopper’s Mart, Save N’ Earn, and Tabel Enterprises.

The bank is planning to install EFT/POS terminals in big business establishments, electric and water utilities, and educational institutions in Bohol.

FCB is now working with public utilities and educational institutions in the province to allow their customers to pay their bills at the bank.

There are now more than 12,000 FCB PITAKArd holders in Bohol who enjoy the safety and convenience in withdrawing cash, purchasing goods and services, and later on paying bills at utility companies.

FCB has automated teller machines (ATMs) in 22 location in Bohol, and aims to install more EFT/POS terminals in the province.

The FCB PITAKArd is a debit card issued to FCB ATM/POS depositor. The depositor can use this card to access funds at the FCB ATMs and pay for purchases of goods and services at EFT/POS terminals in FCB accredited merchants and companies.

Those who are interested to acquire an FCB PITAKArd may open an ATM-POS account at any FCB branch in Bohol.

COMMEMORATION of the International Human Rights Day in Bohol had advocates using different media to wave one unified call for ridding discrimination and more human rights awareness and protection, especially from state actors.

Street parliamentarians and militant groups Gabriela, Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (BAYAN), AnakPawis, Anak Bayan and farmer umbrella group Hugpong sa mga Mag-uumang Bol-anon (HUMABOL) KARAPATAN, BOKKANA and HUMABI took to the streets urging people and the government to keep up with the call for human rights protection.

Hitting on possible human rights abuses brought about by the ongoing martial law blanketed over Maguindanao which they claimed as dangerous and questionable, the rights activists also took pockmarks on Bohol anti-poverty projects and its effects especially in the jatropha, oil explorations, justice for activists Mayong Auxilio and Victor Olayvar as well as the Arroyo attempt to stick to power, the groups, marched along Airport Road, Lamdagan, Tabaco, Ma. Clara and then on to the plaza, going back to B. Inting where they converged to dramatize their concerns.

Representatives from the estimated three hundred rights advocates from above groups also took turns in loaded speeches in front of the city’s main square.

Meanwhile, at the same time, another group of rights advocates and members of the Local Monitoring Board (LMB) in Bohol hugged the radio for an hour-long discussion on rights issues.

Bohol’s LMB, installed by the Joint Monitoring Committee (JMC) of the Government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) and the Communist Party of the Philippines New People’s Army National Democratic Front (CPP/NPA/NDF) has been tasked to locally monitor human rights incursions by either of the agreeing parties who signed the comprehensive agreement on the respect for human rights and the international humanitarian law (CARHRIHL), explains Dr. Asteria Estoreon during the weekly Kapihan sa PIA.

One of its biggest tasks is human rights education, Estoreon said adding that about 70% of Bohol’s barangays has had human rights education by the LMB already.

To this huge task, LMB has also cascaded its tasks of monitoring to the towns when it installed new monitoring centers to assure that complaints against the two conflicting partiers are noted and processed.

By virtue of an executive order of Governor Erico Aumentado, Bohol LMB has also installed more LMB town centers, two from each district, to compose the six new local government based monitoring center for human rights abuses, she added.

At the slow organization of the Barangay Human Rights Action Centers, the LMB has put up these centers to easily take on complaints against the military and the armed component of the CPP.NDF.

More on the rights monitoring, Diocese of Tagbilaran Social Action Center director Fr. Warli Salise said the diocese of Tagbilaran has committed its 58 parish priests to help in the job of monitoring human rights abuses. (PIA)

In leaving golf indefinitely, did Tiger Woods make the right decision?