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REPUBLIC ACT No. 3019 ANTI-GRAFT AND CORRUPT PRACTICES ACT

Section 1. Statement of policy. It is the policy of the Philippine Government, in line with the principle that a public office is a public trust, to repress certain acts of public officers and private persons alike which constitute graft or corrupt practices or which may lead thereto.

Section 2. Definition of terms. As used in this Act, that term

(a) "Government" includes the national government, the local governments, the government-owned and government-controlled corporations, and all other instrumentalities or agencies of the Republic of the Philippines and their branches.

(b) "Public officer" includes elective and appointive officials and employees, permanent or temporary, whether in the classified or unclassified or exempt service receiving compensation, even nominal, from the government as defined in the preceding subparagraph.

(c) "Receiving any gift" includes the act of accepting directly or indirectly a gift from a person other than a member of the public officer's immediate family, in behalf of himself or of any member of his family or relative within the fourth civil degree, either by consanguinity or affinity, even on the occasion of a family celebration or national festivity like Christmas, if the value of the gift is under the circumstances manifestly excessive.

(d) "Person" includes natural and juridical persons, unless the context indicates otherwise.

Section 3. Corrupt practices of public officers. In addition to acts or omissions of public officers already penalized by existing law, the following shall constitute corrupt practices of any public officer and are hereby declared to be unlawful:

(a) Persuading, inducing or influencing another public officer to perform an act constituting a violation of rules and regulations duly promulgated by competent authority or an offense in connection with the official duties of the latter, or allowing himself to be persuaded, induced, or influenced to commit such violation or offense.

(b) Directly or indirectly requesting or receiving any gift, present, share, percentage, or benefit, for himself or for any other person, in connection with any contract or transaction between the Government and any other part, wherein the public officer in his official capacity has to intervene under the law.

(c) Directly or indirectly requesting or receiving any gift, present or other pecuniary or material benefit, for himself or for another, from any person for whom the public officer, in any manner or capacity, has secured or obtained, or will secure or obtain, any Government permit or license, in consideration for the help given or to be given, without prejudice to Section thirteen of this Act.

(d) Accepting or having any member of his family accept employment in a private enterprise which has pending official business with him during the pendency thereof or within one year after its termination.

(e) Causing any undue injury to any party, including the Government, or giving any private party any unwarranted benefits, advantage or preference in the discharge of his official administrative or judicial functions through manifest partiality, evident bad faith or gross inexcusable negligence. This provision shall apply to officers and employees of offices or government corporations charged with the grant of licenses or permits or other concessions.

(f) Neglecting or refusing, after due demand or request, without sufficient justification, to act within a reasonable time on any matter pending before him for the purpose of obtaining, directly or indirectly, from any person interested in the matter some pecuniary or material benefit or advantage, or for the purpose of favoring his own interest or giving undue advantage in favor of or discriminating against any other interested party.

(g) Entering, on behalf of the Government, into any contract or transaction manifestly and grossly disadvantageous to the same, whether or not the public officer profited or will profit thereby.

(h) Director or indirectly having financing or pecuniary interest in any business, contract or transaction in connection with which he intervenes or takes part in his official capacity, or in which he is prohibited by the Constitution or by any law from having any interest.

(i) Directly or indirectly becoming interested, for personal gain, or having a material interest in any transaction or act requiring the approval of a board, panel or group of which he is a member, and which exercises discretion in such approval, even if he votes against the same or does not participate in the action of the board, committee, panel or group.

Interest for personal gain shall be presumed against those public officers responsible for the approval of manifestly unlawful, inequitable, or irregular transaction or acts by the board, panel or group to which they belong.

(j) Knowingly approving or granting any license, permit, privilege or benefit in favor of any person not qualified for or not legally entitled to such license, permit, privilege or advantage, or of a mere representative or dummy of one who is not so qualified or entitled.

(k) Divulging valuable information of a confidential character, acquired by his office or by him on account of his official position to unauthorized persons, or releasing such information in advance of its authorized release date.

The person giving the gift, present, share, percentage or benefit referred to in subparagraphs (b) and (c); or offering or giving to the public officer the employment mentioned in subparagraph (d); or urging the divulging or untimely release of the confidential information referred to in subparagraph (k) of this section shall, together with the offending public officer, be punished under Section nine of this Act and shall be permanently or temporarily disqualified in the discretion of the Court, from transacting business in any form with the Government.

Section 4. Prohibition on private individuals. (a) It shall be unlawful for any person having family or close personal relation with any public official to capitalize or exploit or take advantage of such family or close personal relation by directly or indirectly requesting or receiving any present, gift or material or pecuniary advantage from any other person having some business, transaction, application, request or contract with the government, in which such public official has to intervene. Family relation shall include the spouse or relatives by consanguinity or affinity in the third civil degree. The word "close personal relation" shall include close personal friendship, social and fraternal connections, and professional employment all giving rise to intimacy which assures free access to such public officer.

(b) It shall be unlawful for any person knowingly to induce or cause any public official to commit any of the offenses defined in Section 3 hereof.

Section 5. Prohibition on certain relatives. It shall be unlawful for the spouse or for any relative, by consanguinity or affinity, within the third civil degree, of the President of the Philippines, the Vice-President of the Philippines, the President of the Senate, or the Speaker of the House of Representatives, to intervene, directly or indirectly, in any business, transaction, contract or application with the Government: Provided, That this section shall not apply to any person who, prior to the assumption of office of any of the above officials to whom he is related, has been already dealing with the Government along the same line of business, nor to any transaction, contract or application already existing or pending at the time of such assumption of public office, nor to any application filed by him the approval of which is not discretionary on the part of the official or officials concerned but depends upon compliance with requisites provided by law, or rules or regulations issued pursuant to law, nor to any act lawfully performed in an official capacity or in the exercise of a profession.

Section 6. Prohibition on Members of Congress. It shall be unlawful hereafter for any Member of the Congress during the term for which he has been elected, to acquire or receive any personal pecuniary interest in any specific business enterprise which will be directly and particularly favored or benefited by any law or resolution authored by him previously approved or adopted by the Congress during the same term.

The provision of this section shall apply to any other public officer who recommended the initiation in Congress of the enactment or adoption of any law or resolution, and acquires or receives any such interest during his incumbency.

It shall likewise be unlawful for such member of Congress or other public officer, who, having such interest prior to the approval of such law or resolution authored or recommended by him, continues for thirty days after such approval to retain such interest.

Section 7. Statement of assets and liabilities. Every public officer, within thirty days after the approval of this Act or after assuming office, and within the month of January of every other year thereafter, as well as upon the expiration of his term of office, or upon his resignation or separation from office, shall prepare and file with the office of the corresponding Department Head, or in the case of a Head of Department or chief of an independent office, with the Office of the President, or in the case of members of the Congress and the officials and employees thereof, with the Office of the Secretary of the corresponding House, a true detailed and sworn statement of assets and liabilities, including a statement of the amounts and sources of his income, the amounts of his personal and family expenses and the amount of income taxes paid for the next preceding calendar year: Provided, That public officers assuming office less than two months before the end of the calendar year, may file their statements in the following months of January.

Section 8. Dismissal due to unexplained wealth. If in accordance with the provisions of Republic Act Numbered One thousand three hundred seventy-nine, a public official has been found to have acquired during his incumbency, whether in his name or in the name of other persons, an amount of property and/or money manifestly out of proportion to his salary and to his other lawful income, that fact shall be a ground for dismissal or removal. Properties in the name of the spouse and unmarried children of such public official may be taken into consideration, when their acquisition through legitimate means cannot be satisfactorily shown. Bank deposits shall be taken into consideration in the enforcement of this section, notwithstanding any provision of law to the contrary.

Section 9. Penalties for violations. (a) Any public officer or private person committing any of the unlawful acts or omissions enumerated in Sections 3, 4, 5 and 6 of this Act shall be punished with imprisonment for not less than one year nor more than ten years, perpetual disqualification from public office, and confiscation or forfeiture in favor of the Government of any prohibited interest and unexplained wealth manifestly out of proportion to his salary and other lawful income.

Any complaining party at whose complaint the criminal prosecution was initiated shall, in case of conviction of the accused, be entitled to recover in the criminal action with priority over the forfeiture in favor of the Government, the amount of money or the thing he may have given to the accused, or the value of such thing.

(b) Any public officer violation any of the provisions of Section 7 of this Act shall be punished by a fine of not less than one hundred pesos nor more than one thousand pesos, or by imprisonment not exceeding one year, or by both such fine and imprisonment, at the discretion of the Court.

The violation of said section proven in a proper administrative proceeding shall be sufficient cause for removal or dismissal of a public officer, even if no criminal prosecution is instituted against him.

Section 10. Competent court. Until otherwise provided by law, all prosecutions under this Act shall be within the original jurisdiction of the proper Court of First Instance.

Section 11. Prescription of offenses. All offenses punishable under this Act shall prescribe in ten years.

Section 12. Termination of office. No public officer shall be allowed to resign or retire pending an investigation, criminal or administrative, or pending a prosecution against him, for any offense under this Act or under the provisions of the Revised Penal Code on bribery.

Section 13. Suspension and loss of benefits. Any public officer against whom any criminal prosecution under a valid information under this Act or under the provisions of the Revised Penal Code on bribery is pending in court, shall be suspended from office. Should he be convicted by final judgment, he shall lose all retirement or gratuity benefits under any law, but if he is acquitted, he shall be entitled to reinstatement and to the salaries and benefits which he failed to receive during suspension, unless in the meantime administrative proceedings have been filed against him.

Section 14. Exception. Unsolicited gifts or presents of small or insignificant value offered or given as a mere ordinary token of gratitude or friendship according to local customs or usage, shall be excepted from the provisions of this Act.

Nothing in this Act shall be interpreted to prejudice or prohibit the practice of any profession, lawful trade or occupation by any private person or by any public officer who under the law may legitimately practice his profession, trade or occupation, during his incumbency, except where the practice of such profession, trade or occupation involves conspiracy with any other person or public official to commit any of the violations penalized in this Act.

Section 15. Separability clause. If any provision of this Act or the application of such provision to any person or circumstances is declared invalid, the remainder of the Act or the application of such provision to other persons or circumstances shall not be affected by such declaration.

Section 16. Effectivity. This Act shall take effect on its approval, but for the purpose of determining unexplained wealth, all property acquired by a public officer since he assumed office shall be taken into consideration.

Approved: August 17, 1960

Getafe Mayor Theresa Camacho filed her resignation as town executive.

However, her resignation as town mayor was not accepted by Gov. Erico Aumentado who found no legal basis for her decision to vacate the post.

The governor said under the law, resignation as mayor can be accepted due to disability or being convicted of a crime.         

Because he found no valid reason for her resignation, Aumentado submitted her resignation to the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) for evaluation and decision.

Despite the non-approval of her resignation, Mayor Camacho reportedly took her leave last month.

Assuming the mayor's seat is Vice Mayor Cary Camacho, son of the lady mayor.

After Shoppers Mart, the First Consolidated Bank has also installed Electronic Fund Transfer/Point-of-Sale (EFT/POS) terminals at Plaza Marcela, Alturas Supermarket, and Island City Mall, in its effort to give convenience and safety in doing business to thousands of its PITAKArd holders.

This means FCB PITAKArd holders can now purchase goods and service from Shoppers Mart, Plaza Marcela, Alturas Supermarket and Island City Malls using their PITAKArds.
FCB Vice President Joseph Lacea said the plan is to install 400 EFT/POS terminals in accredited merchants and companies in Bohol. FCB will then install EFT/POS terminals in Siquijor and Palawan.

Already preparations are underway with BOHECO, Bohol Light and Bohol Water for consumers to pay their bills using FCB PITAKArd.         

Vice President Lacea said when all these EFT/POS will be installed in businesses in Bohol these will bring tremendous advantage to PITAKArd holders.

He envisioned that FCB PITAKArd holder will eventually shift into a cashless and safe shopping and payment system using the FCB PITAKArd.

Since the bank launched its PITAKArd in the last quarter of last year, there are now more than 10,000 FCB PITAKArd holders and this number is growing very fast as many FCB depositors have seen the safety and convenience of doing their financial transactions using the FCB card.

The FCB PITAKArd can also be used in withdrawing funds from FCB Automated Teller Machines (ATMs). FCB has ATMs in 22 location in Bohol.

Those who are interested to acquire an FCB PITAKArd may open an account at any FCB branches in Bohol.

There are indications that Bohol Lakas-Kampi leaders will formalize today their support for Defense Sec. Guilbert "Gibo" Teodoro as the official standard bearer of the administration party in the coming elections.

Gov. Erico Aumentado who is the regional and provincial chairman of Lakas-CMD was seen in television report last night to be with Sec. Teodoro, a day before the administration party will meet today to pick their choice as presidential bet in 2010 polls.         

Before he left for Manila, Gov. Aumentado confirmed that he is attending the executive meeting of Lakas-Kampi today where the announcement is expected to be done.

Representatives Edgar Chatto, Roberto Cajes and Adam Relson Jala were seen in a breakfast meeting with Sec. Teodoro yesterday as among the 90 congressmen who manifested support for Teodoro.

In today's Lakas-CMD meeting, MMDA Chairman Fernando Bayani will be the other choice for administration presidential bet.

If this will push through, Gov. Aumentado and the three Bohol solons are expected to stick it out with Pres. Arroyo up to election day. However, there are reports that Vice Gov. Julius Herrera will be joining the Nacionalista Party of Sen. Manuel Villas who is slated to visit Bohol this weekend. - Bohol Chronicle

RTC Judge Patsita Sarmiento-Gamutan denied yesterday the application for a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) for the City Square, formerly the Agora Public Market.

However, the court directs that all other substantial issues that were raised by the parties in the hearing should be fully ventilated during the trial proper. The pre-trial is set in Oct. 9, 2009.

In a six-page order, Judge Gamutan stated that the court "is in doubt with respect to the propriety of entertaining the application or request for a TRO at this point in time."

The resolution cited that while the case was filed on December 10, 2008, the summary hearing was conducted eight months and 25 days later which was on Sept. 4, 2009.

Gamutan said the records were received by the Branch Clerk of Court, Branch 49 which raffled the case on Dec. 11, 2008. The summary hearing should have been conducted within 24 hours after Dec. 11, 2008.         

It maybe recalled that the five RTC judges Fernando Fuentes III, Baudillo Dosdos, Suceso Arcamo, Achilles Melicor and Teofilo Baluma inhibited from handling the case which caused the regional court administrator to raffle it last month to Judge Gamutan.

Judge Gamutan said the "court considers it to be public knowledge that the construction of the City Square has been substantially completed, therefore, the issuance of a Temporary Restraining Order against the construction would be an exercise of futility.

Cited was the case of the United Coconut Planters Bank vs. United Alloy Philippine Corp. citing the case of Capitol Medical Center vs. Court of Appeals (G.R. No 142896, Sept. 12, 2007) the court ruled "The sole object of a preliminary injunction, whether prohibitory or mandatory is to preserve the status quo until the merits of the case can be heard.

Meanwhile, the complainants of the class suit, lawyers Victor de la Serna, Alexnader Lim and Zotico Ochavillo welcomed the movement of the case after the hearing for the petition for TRO was delayed for more than 8 months due to the inhibition of the five city judges.

The lawyers said that the defendants, Mayor Dan Lim, Juan Apostol and Ko Beng Sum actually evaded from answering the issue on the claim that the rehabilitate operate transfer (ROT) contract was grossly disadvantageous to the city government citing the disparity of rental rates.

The defendants were represented by Atty. Doni Piquero, Atty. J. Albert Tinampay and Atty. Amante. - Bohol Chronicle

By Julie M. Aurelio
Philippine Daily Inquirer

A 13-year-old boy who was caught stealing electric cables in their neighborhood died apparently after his mother hit him with a broomstick (walis tambo) on the head.

Police said the boy, Ronald Gonzales, a high school student, died Thursday night at the East Avenue Medical Center where he was brought for treatment.

Police investigation showed Ronald was scolded by his mother Salve Gonzales on Wednesday night after she learned of her son’s misdeed in their neighborhood in Barangay (Village) Commonwealth, Quezon City.

In her anger, investigation showed, the mother also hit Gonzales with the broomstick on the head.

Gov. Aumentado announces Rep. Cajes bid for v-governor

Governor Erico Aumentado who was recently installed regional chairman for Central Visayas of the administration party Lakas-Kampi-CMD chose the turf of Cong. Roberto “Ondoy” Cajes as the venue where he announced the lawmaker’s bid for vice governor.

The announcement virtually  shattered once and for all the rumors and speculations about the governor’s choice for vice governor although in some instances the provincial executive was also heard  rooting for either Provincial Administrator Tomas Abapo, Jr. or Board Member Concepcion Lim, ‘depending on the audience’ ,he was in.

Aumentado’s proclamation in favor of the second district solon was made during the 62nd town anniversary celebration of Trinidad in front of hundreds of Trinidadnons last September 1.

Cajes gladly accepted the governor’s pronouncement while recognizing Aumentado’s magic touch that convinced him to enter politics almost 17 years ago when he ran and was elected as board member in 1992.

While reliable sources reported that Aumentado’s choice for provincial chairmanship of Lakas-Kampi-CMD was Cajes, this was reportedly turned down by the legislator to pave way for the administration’s gubernatorial candidate to assume the chairmanship left vacant by Aumentado’s promotion.

The course of Cajes political journey was marked with a single defeat in 1995 elections but he regained victory in 1998 elections for his second term as board member.

In 2001 elections, it was also Aumentado who encouraged Cajes to run for representative in the second district of Bohol where he emerged victorious in a dramatic one-on-one fight for congress between Cajes and former Inabanga mayor Jose “Boy” Jumamoy.

The Bohol Polls 2005 conducted by the Research Center of Holy Name University revealed that most of the constituencies of Cajes have come to know the solon’s projects not from newspapers, radio or television but from actually seeing and experiencing them.

In the 2007 elections, Cajes leadership and strategies in the political arena were proven impressive in his capacity as chairman of the second district Lakas-Kampi-CMD. His leadership led to the victories of 13 mayors out of 14 mayoralty candidates. It was a victory that was not seen in other congressional districts in Bohol.

Cajes leadership was recognized nationally as early as his first term as congressman.  He was among the few neophyte who earned the respect of his colleagues leading to his appointment as Senior Vice Chairman of the Committee on Transportation and Telecommunicationsâ€"a seat that is rarely given to neophyte solons.

In his second term, Cajes became the Chairman of the Ethics Committee. During his chairmanship, the committee had caught media mileage as it delved national issues that shook the country and even affected the economic activity to include the controversial alleged wealth of the First Family in a German Bank.

In his service to the people, he earned several citations such as one of the most Outstanding Neophyte Congressman of the 12th Congress, the Legislator par Excellence of the year 2002, Congressman of the Year  being awarded by the Philippines Media Enforcers, Inc., Public Servant of the Philippines for 2002; and the Development of the Filipino Youth Inc. as an Outstanding Congressman of the year 2002. - Sunday Post

MANNY PACQUIAO IS BACK and, as promised , wasted no time whipping himself into shape.

Hours after arriving from a whirlwind promotional tour of four cities in the United Sates and Caguas in Puerto Rico, Pacquiao sweated it out Thursday by jogging around Brentville in Biñan, Laguna, where he owns a house.

Actually, Pacquiao was also able to jog around Central Park in New York on Thursday and played basketball in San Francisco on Sunday during breaks of his joint tour with Puerto Rican Miguel Cotto.

Pacquiao is gunning for Cotto’s World Boxing Organization’s welterweight crown on Nov. 14 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

Jake Joson, Pacquiao’s chief of staff, told the Inquirer that the pound-for-pound king is slated to go to Baguio City either today or tomorrow to begin his preparations for the megabuck bout.

Pending the arrival of chief trainer Freddie Roach, Buboy Fernandez will supervise Pacquiao’s workouts, according to Pacquiao confidant Rex “Wakee” Salud.

Roach is flying out of Hollywood Saturday night in time for Pacquiao’s four-week training camp in Baguio. The buildup culminates with another four-week training at Roach’s Wild Card Gym in Hollywood.

Upon his arrival at the Naia, Pacquiao told the media that he’s ready and focused for the hard work that lies ahead.

Pacquiao reiterated that eight weeks is just ideal for his training, unlike Cotto, who needs a longer time being naturally bigger. The two are fighting at a catchweight of 145 pounds. - Phil Daily Inquirer

By Beverly T. Natividad
Philippine Daily Inquirer

Joseph Estrada Thursday filed a libel suit against tycoon Alfonso Yuchengco and the Philippine Daily Inquirer, singling out the newspaper for its report about the businessman confirming a senator’s exposé that the deposed President had bullied Yuchengco into selling his stake in a firm that controlled Philippine Long Distance Telephone Co. (PLDT).

Yuchengco’s sale in 1998 of his stake in Philippine Telecommunications Investment Corp. (PTIC), the biggest shareholder in PLDT, allowed Manuel V. Pangilinan’s group, the Hong Kong-based First Pacific Co., to gain control of the country’s biggest telecommunications firm.

Flanked by his son, San Juan Mayor Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito, and his lawyers, Estrada, who was ousted in January 2001, filed the libel suit against Yuchengco, Inquirer publisher Isagani Yambot, editor in chief Letty Jimenez-Magsanoc, and reporters Daxim Lucas, Christine Avendaño and Doris Dumlao.

The former President filed the case at the office of San Juan City Prosecutor Tomas T. Ricalde.

In his complaint, Estrada cited the Inquirer’s Sept. 16 banner story, “Erap bullied me, says Yuchengcoâ€"Taipan confirms coercion in PLDT deal,” which carried Yuchengco’s statement confirming how the then president threatened and intimidated him into selling his holdings in PTIC to First Pacific.

By Anna Valmero
INQUIRER.net

Of the 100,000 mothers giving live birth in the country, 162 die for lack of attending medical professionals and obstetric care, making the country among 68 others where 97 percent of global maternal and child death occur, health officials said on Friday.

Health Secretary Francisco Duque III said that although the country's 162 maternal mortality ratio (MMR) dropped from a 1993 baseline of 209 based on the 2006 Family Planning Survey, the challenge remains in terms of reducing MMR by 75 percent or 52 by 2015 based on the Millennium Development Goals (MDG).

Worldwide, United Nations Population Fund representative (UNFPA) Suneeta Mukherjee said over 500,000 women die each year from pregnancy-related causes, with the lifetime risk of dying from pregnancy in developing countries such as the Philippines standing at 1 in 75 women.

“In the Philippines, 11 women die due to complications of pregnancy at childbirth. With the death of the mother, infants are 10 times more likely to die prematurely. In the country, 93 newborn deaths are recorded daily due to preventable causes,” said Mukherjee.

THE stabbing member of the Civilian Armed Forces for Geographical Units (CAFGUs) unit in Talisay Anda has been terminated effective September 1, says the commanding officer investigating the complaints.

According to 1Lt. Amir Minanga, he has recommended for the dismissal from service of respondent CAFGU member Reynaldo Hinampas.

Moreover, he called for the immediate recall to main camp the suspect’s brother Jose Hinampas, who was the alleged driver of the get-away vehicle after the incident.

1Lt. Minanga is the commanding officer of the 52nd Infantry Battalion’s Echo company, the one involved in a complaint filed by Talisay Barangay Council led by Chairman Magdaleno Gultiano.

The commanding officer also called for CAFGU refresher course for other CAFGUs found to have been involved in similar mischiefs.

802nd Infantry Brigade’s Civil Military Operations Officer Major Eduardo Malig-on Jr. last week assured that the 52nd IB was handling the investigation and assured immediate action.

The army would never tolerate abuses committed by Cafgus and those found guilty will suffer the consequences, he said. 

Newspaper reports last week said that barangay officials of Talisay complained against alleged atrocities committed by elements of the Civilian Auxiliary Army (CAA) Detachment based in their barangay.

The barangay, through a council resolution has called for the immediate pull-out of the detachment to avert from any more “untoward incidents”.

They identified the perpetrators as members of the 3rd Bohol “Echo” Coy of the 52nd IB under 1Lt Minanga.

Residents’ complaints ranged from attempted rape, drunkenness, indiscriminate firing, environmental concerns and stabbing.

According to complaints, the drunk elements of the detachment boxed civilians, fired indiscriminately when drunk, threw human wastes near the camp and aided a member involved in a stabbing incident to escape.

In Resolution # 13 series of 2009 and dated August 21, the council asked Governor Erico Aumentado for the immediate pull-out of the detachment.

But 1Lt. Minanga however revealed that the army has also secured counter affidavits from several complainants retracting the early allegations.

Minanga also called for the town peace and Order council for a dialog with the complainants and the local officials next week.  (PIA)

Civil Service Commission (CSC) announces that they are now accepting of applications for this year’s pencil and paper test for career service professional and sub professional level aspirants.

Deadline for accepting applications for examination would be September 30, CSC Bohol said.

In a prepared press material dated September 11, CSC Bohol chief Nissi Cherith V. Asis said the their office is now accepting applications for the Cebu City examinations on November 15, 2009.

She also said the applications forms can be secured from the CSC Bohol Field Office or can be downloaded from the CSC website at www.CSC.gov.ph.

Human resource Management officers of the towns can also provide the forms, according to Asis.

Bohol CSC Field Office accepts properly accomplished CSC Form 100-A with at 4 latest and identical passport sized identification pictures.

The pictures however need to have proper name tags that include applicants’ surname, first name and middle initial, one that is taken within three months from filing the application.

Computer generated name tags are unacceptable.

Scanned, photocopied or computer enhanced pictures are not acceptable, Asis added.   

Applicants also need to personally show a valid identification card containing his picture, signature, birth date and bearing the signature of authorized head of issuing agency upon application submission.

Moreover, a photocopy of such identification document should be attached to the approved application form. This would serve as reference for room examiners on examination day, CSC said.

Applicants also need to pay P350.00 as examination fee, she summed. (PIA)

“Illegal” says former house speaker Jose De Venecia over Defense Secretary Gilberto “Gibo” Teodoro’s nomination as Lakas-Kampi-CMD presidential standard-bearer for 2010 elections.

“Why would they call a national executive committee meeting when there’s yet a Lakas- Kampi-CMD merger, so the meeting is illegal”, de Venecia harped.

Imagine choosing a presidential and vice-presidential candidate when the party is not yet accredited, registered and recognized by the Comelec,” said the former president of Lakas-CMD.

The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has yet to officially recognize the party, which merged with Kabalikat sa Malayang Pilipino (KAMPI) recently.

On De Venecia’s point, Presidential Adviser on Political Affairs Gabby Claudio explained that the September 17 gathering was not a convention but only a part of their selection process.

“The meeting of the national executive committee of Lakas-Kampi-CMD yesterday was not a convention. That was very clear. It’s part of the selection process of the party and we said the essence of that selection process is in the conduct of democratic consultations among the leaders of the party,” he said.

Calaudio, Lakas-CMD secretary general said he is optimistic that the poll body will grant their petition to accredit the merger of the two parties.

“We expect the Comelec to be fair and just in giving due favorable action to the petition of Lakas-Kampi for the immediate registration and accreditation,” he said.

Claudio noted that he finds it ironic that De Venecia is the one questioning the merger when he was the one pushing for it before.

“He was the prime mover of the merger. He signed a document on the merger of the two parties as early as 1998. Since then, he had been pushing for the official merger of the two parties until he lost the speakership and the presidency of Lakas,” Claudio said.

The Comelec is set to issue its decision on the Lakas-Kampi-CMD merger within the month. (PIA)

Middle-aged male smokers with high blood pressure and raised cholesterol levels face dying about 10 years before healthier counterparts, a study warns.

The UK study looked at more than 19,000 civil servants aged 40-69 and traced what happened to them 38 years later.

It concluded that men with these three risk factors could expect a 10-year shorter life from 50 years of age.

The British Heart Foundation said it was an important reminder for everyone over 40 to have a heart health check.

The study, published in the British Medical Journal, was set up at in 1967-70 at the peak of the vascular disease epidemic in the UK.

Participants had their height, weight, blood pressure, lung function, cholesterol and blood glucose levels measured and completed a questionnaire about their previous medical history, smoking habits, employment grade and marital status.

Current smokers made up 42% of the men, 39% had high blood pressure and 51% had high cholesterol.

They were followed up nearly 40 years later in 2005 by which time 13,501 had died. - bbc

Computer, Restaurant and Household Equipment, Office Furniture, Electrical Equipment, Miscellaneous

Sale Day: Wednesday Sept 16 2009
Location: Lietz Industrial Complex, Edison Ave., Kim. 14, SLEX Paranaque City
Refundable Deposit: P5,000 upon registration

Contact: Jenny or Dang
Tel No: +63 2 822 5555 Fax +63 2 822 3333 Email: manila@go-dove.com

Republic of the Philippines
City of Pasay

To: All Delinquent Real Property Owners
Subject: Tax Incentive Plan - Now Extended. Pursuant to City Ordinance No. 4431-S-2009

Avail of the one time offer of tax incentive plan to update your real property tax delinquencies thru reduction of fifty percent on interest due.

Please proceed to the city treasurer's office during office hours on Mondays to Fridays. Apply and pay now.

Deadline is September 30, 2009!

Wenceslao B. Trinidad
City Mayor

Concepcion Daplas
City Treasurer

source: manila bulletin

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For inquiries: text 0927-923-6483

Getz Pharma is an American Multinational Pharmaceutical company with presence in more than 25 countries worldwide. In the Philippines, Getz Pharma is considered the fastest growing pharmaceutical company as per latest industry audits. As we move forward in our vision to expand access to world-class pharmaceuticals, we are further expanding our organization in 2009.

Marketing Assistant: Code: MA-0809
Graduate of any four year course, preferably Business Admin/E-commerce or any related course. Male or Female, 22-28 years old. Must have at least 1 year work experience as Marketing Assistant in a Pharma company. Must be proficient in MS Office Applications (especially MS Excel). Ability to multi-task and work well under pressure. Excellent communication skills.

An exciting career development opportunity, which includes industry competitive compensation and benefits program await all successful candidates.

Please send your letter of application and curriculum vitae with photo. Indicate code of position applied for at the subject line of your email to:

bzm.hire@getzpharma.com (for business unit manager applicants)
manager.hire@getzpharma.com (for hrdm applicants)
pmr.hire@getzpharma.com (for pmr applicants)
applications@getzpharma.com (for graphic designer, accounting assistant and marketing assistant applicants)

Submit application not later than October 15, 2009

ad source: manila bulletin

Employment in the Philippines: Hiring Accounting Assistant

Code: AA-0809
Graduate of BS Accountancy. CPA license is an advantage but not required. Male or Female, not more than 25 years old. Preferably with 1 year work experience in related field. Can adapt quickly in a computerized accounting environment.

Please send your letter of application and curriculum vitae with photo. Indicate code of position applied for at the subject line of your email to:

bzm.hire@getzpharma.com (for business unit manager applicants)
manager.hire@getzpharma.com (for hrdm applicants)
pmr.hire@getzpharma.com (for pmr applicants)
applications@getzpharma.com (for graphic designer, accounting assistant and marketing assistant applicants)

Submit application not later than October 15, 2009

ad source: manila bulletin

The Philippines ranked 9th among key emerging markets for global investors in 2009, jumping 14 spots from 23rd place the previous year, according to new research published by UK Trade & Investment.

"The global recession was a wake-up call for companies to diversify their export base and seek out new opportunities in the emerging world. We are encouraging UK business to look to the Philippines and find new business in this exciting new market," British Ambassador to the Philippines Stephen Lillie said in a statement released to media outfits.

According to an embassy brief, the United Kingdom is the top net foreign direct investor in the Philippines, investing $298.17 million last year. There are currently around 200 British companies active in the Philippines, ranging from big multinationals to small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

source: Philippine Daily Inquirer

Philippine Employment: Graphic Designer Job Hiring

Code: GD-0809
Graphic Designer degree preferred. Three years minimum experience in the industry. Proficient with Macintosh OSX and/or Windows operating systems, Illustrator and Photoshop (CS3) and InDesign. Should have good knowledge of pre-press and printing processes. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Can multi-task and manage tight deadlines. Experience in web design development is an advantage. Design portfolio required during interview processes.

Please send your letter of application and curriculum vitae with photo. Indicate code of position applied for at the subject line of your email to:

bzm.hire@getzpharma.com (for business unit manager applicants)
manager.hire@getzpharma.com (for hrdm applicants)
pmr.hire@getzpharma.com (for pmr applicants)
applications@getzpharma.com (for graphic designer, accounting assistant and marketing assistant applicants)

Submit application not later than October 15, 2009

ad source: manila bulletin

Philippine Employment: Human Resource Development Manager

Code: HRDM-1008
Age: 30-40. College graduate in business, science, engineering, psychology with related masteral studies. Must have 3 to 4 years experience as HR Manager with a pharmaceutical company. Exposure in sales, marketing, training and financial management would definitely be an advantage. Must have strong focus on strategic HR and Organizational Development.

Please send your letter of application and curriculum vitae with photo. Indicate code of position applied for at the subject line of your email to:

bzm.hire@getzpharma.com (for business unit manager applicants)
manager.hire@getzpharma.com (for hrdm applicants)
pmr.hire@getzpharma.com (for pmr applicants)
applications@getzpharma.com (for graphic designer, accounting assistant and marketing assistant applicants)

Submit application not later than October 15, 2009

ad source: manila bulletin

Job Vacancy Philippines: Business Unit Manager

Code: BZM-1008
Age 30-40. College graduate, degree in marketing, business or medical sciences, preferably with MBA. At least 2 years experience as head of sales and marketing. Must have a minimum of 10 years combines experience in sales management, product management and new product development in ethical pharmaceutical company. Must be able to interpret financial reports, P & L and lead budget planning. Established ties and relationship with key opinion leaders in anti-infectives, gastroenterology, pulmonology and cardio metabolics. Must have strong bias towards scientific marketing, sales force effectiveness and people development.

Please send your letter of application and curriculum vitae with photo. Indicate code of position applied for at the subject line of your email to:

bzm.hire@getzpharma.com (for business unit manager applicants)
manager.hire@getzpharma.com (for hrdm applicants)
pmr.hire@getzpharma.com (for pmr applicants)
applications@getzpharma.com (for graphic designer, accounting assistant and marketing assistant applicants)

Submit application not later than October 15, 2009

ad source: manila bulletin

Philippines Employment: Professional Medical Representatives

Code: PMR-0809
Male or female, 20-28 years old. College graduate preferably with science background and at least 1 year experience as medical representative promoting antibiotics, anti-asthma, anti-diabetes, cardio and gastro products. Must have excellent communication skills in oral and written English.

Please send your letter of application and curriculum vitae with photo. Indicate code of position applied for at the subject line of your email to:

bzm.hire@getzpharma.com (for business unit manager applicants)
manager.hire@getzpharma.com (for hrdm applicants)
pmr.hire@getzpharma.com (for pmr applicants)
applications@getzpharma.com (for graphic designer, accounting assistant and marketing assistant applicants)

Submit application not later than October 15, 2009

Job Vacancy in Laguna, Philippines: Water Treatment Plant Shift Leader
and Water Treatment Plant Operator

Male, 30-40 years old.
Must possess at least a Short Course in Certificate in Mechanical Technology or Industrial Electrician or any related field
At least 4 years of working experience in operation and maintenance of water and wastewater treatment plants
Familiar with laboratory testing procedures
Physically fit and willing to work on shifting schedule
Must be willing to relocate to Laguna
Must be a team player
Can work under minimum supervision

Send resume to fwoihrd@yahoo.com.ph or mail it to PO Box 1705, Makati Central Post Office, 1257, Makati City, Philippines

Job Hiring in Laguna: Assistant Operations Manager

Job Description: Reports directly to the Operations Manager. Responsible for the over-all operation and maintenance of water and wastewater treatment plant. Prepares the annual operating and maintenance budget of the plant. Prepares the plan for the implementation of preventive maintenance program to ensure that the plant is in top condition. Proposes system improvements and assists in the implementation of the proposal. Supervises and give solutions to the daily operational concerns of the plant. Attends daily meetings with client. Provides regular reports to the management as directed. Responsible for the over-all safety, morale, and performance of his subordinates. Company representative to DENR / LLDA / EM as the primary PCO of the plant concerned. Company representative to PEZA and the industrial park management.

Requirements: Male, 30-40 years old. Bachelor's Degree in Chemical, Electrical, or Mechanical Engineering. Licensed engineer. Accredited or eligible for accreditation by the DENR/EMB as PCO category II, is an advantage. Must be a team player. Must possess good supervisory skills. Willing to work on flexible working hours. Possess initiative and a drive to excel. Must have a valid driver's license. Must be willing to relocate to Laguna.

Experience: At least 5 years working experience in operation and maintenance of water and wastewater treatment plants. Familiar with the principles of operating at least 250 cubic meters per day water treatment plant with a product water quality of <10 uS/cm. Working experience in the operation of a 250 cu.m/hr. wastewater treatment plant employing a heavy metal precipitation system. Experience in the design and/or installation of water and wastewater treatment plants is an advantage. Must have knowledge in trouble shooting electrical control machinery and equipments. Familiar with laboratory testing procedures.

Send resume to fwoihrd@yahoo.com.ph or mail it to PO Box 1705, Makati Central Post Office, 1257, Makati City, Philippines

By RAY HENRY and MICHAEL HILL, Associated Press Writers Ray Henry And Michael Hill, Associated Press

As police charged a Yale animal lab technician with murdering a graduate student who worked in his building, a portrait began to emerge Thursday of an unpleasant stickler for the rules who often clashed with researchers and considered the mice cages his personal fiefdom.

Police charged 24-year-old Raymond Clark III with murder, arresting him at a motel a day after taking hair, fingernail and saliva samples to compare with evidence from the grisly crime scene at Yale's medical school.

Bond was set at $3 million for Clark, who kept his head down and said "Yes, your honor," when asked whether he understood his rights.

The muscular former high school baseball and football player is charged in the death of 24-year-old Annie Le, a pharmacology doctoral student at Yale who vanished Sept. 8. Her body was discovered five days later â€" her wedding day â€" stuffed into a utility compartment behind a wall in the basement of the research building where she and Clark worked.

Let's create the world's longest thank you thread.

Just say thank you to (who) and for (what).

Let me start: Thank Gloria Arroyo for stepping down from your throne after 2010. But no thank you to your plan to run for congresswoman. That's so cheap.

How To Take A Group Picture. Photo by bonapetit

The Great Blue Heronry. Photo by Robinsegg

Noynoy never had any plans to run for President. But he has allowed himself to be influenced by trapos (traditional politicians) in the country who just want to benefit from the presidency of Noynoy, if ever he gets elected in 2010.

excerpt from the column of Frony Fortich, Eye Opener (Sunday Post)

POLITICAL SCENE IN THE FIRST DISTRICT

There are the possible candidates in the First District

  1. Former Governor Rene Relampagos, like Noynoy Aquino his time of discernment is fast approaching and the moment of voters’ registration deadline is nearing, once Relampagos transfers registration to Loon, a vote-rich town with 30,000 voters, that is it, he is running.

  2. Former Senator Ernesto Herrera. His candidacy, however is conditioned on the premise that Vice-Governor Julius Herrera is not going to run for congressman. But there are some reports that there are still efforts to avoid a confrontation between Vice-Governor Julius Herrera and Congressman Edgar Chatto for the governorship. If Julius slides to the congressional seat, then Senator Herrera is out.

 At this point, I could say the strongest candidate is former Governor Rene Relampagos considering that he counts with the support of Loon and his being former governor.

 Only two districts, the first and third district are up for grabs. In the second district, there is no decent opponent for outgoing Governor Erico Aumentado.

  In the third district it will be a strong contest between Agriculture Secretary Arthur Yap and assistant secretary of the Transportation department Eladio Boy Jala.

 People were expecting him what he is going to do about corruption. There must be a program to prosecute those erring officials and also a program to reduce corruption in government, which has run into billions.

Reaction from a reader sent via email:

Thank you for posting this information to the internet. Perhaps you can also add on this site the Illegal Cutting of the Mangroves covered by CBFMA of Lincod Maribojoc Bohol. This has been reported to the Office of the DENR particularly to CENRO Quiwag but instead of prosecuting the violators they are the own protecting them. Look at this video or for further information you can visit the office of Barangay Captain of Lincod Maribojoc Bohol Hon. Crusila Saraña. Here is the link below:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UnwCXrOv0-s

Magsayaw-sayaw atubangan sa kapilya. I haven't seen this practice lately. Is Gala-gala in the barrio gone forever?

(an editorial published by the Sunday Post)

       The town of Bilar is in uproar. One of its landmark, the Central Visayas State College of Agriculture, Forestry and Technology (CVSCAFT) is about to be relegated to a mere extension campus.

       The demotion of the CVSCAFT Bilar is not anything of its own making. The school has in fact distinguished itself both locally and internationally for its multi-faceted areas of specialization.

       It came about by legislative fiat, an unfortunate demotion as a consequence of House Bill 5638 creating the Bohol Island State University (Bisu).

       Nobody is claiming responsibility for the fiasco, particularly section 1 of HB 5638 which states: “The main campus of the University shall be in Tagbilaran City.”

       It is strange how the three Boholano solons, Congressmen Edgar Chatto, Roberto Cajes and Adam Relson Jala would be able to extricate themselves from responsibility on this. Although there were other solons who affixed their signatures to the bill, the three are the ones who are familiar with the issues.

       They may wash their hands in public or just simply keep silent about it, but they cannot escape the fact that as authors they are the ones accountable for it.

       Vice Gov. Julius Caesar Herrera however has brought out a bigger issue than the transfer of the main campus from Bilar to Tagbilaran. It is the transfer of the assets of the province to the Bisu.

       Herrera says this is no small matter because it involves at least P400 million. More than just the loss of assets for a song, it weighs heavily on the province in the sense that this will demote the status of the province and reduce its share in the internal revenue allotment (IRA).

       This is a dagger that strikes at the heart of the Boholano. While everybody is hoping that the province will be entitled to a bigger share, it now stands to lose precious millions by the stroke of a pen.

       The issue here is not the Bisu. It is not bad in itself.

       The point here is that Boholanos are paying a heavy price for the Bisu. The diminution in the IRA will mean a reduction in the budget. How adversely it will affect the province, people can take it from there.

       What is unfortunate about the whole thing is that this could have been avoided if only the matter was subjected to an authentic public hearing. As it is, the damage has been done and Boholanos can only hope for a miracle.

       As it is, the genie is now out of the bottle just because some people thought they can play god. Shame on all of us because we made them think that way.

President Barack Obama has labelled rap star Kanye West a "jackass" for interrupting Taylor Swift's winning speech at the MTV Awards on Sunday.

West stormed the stage in New York to tell the crowd Beyonce should have won the prize for best female video.

Since then, he has called Swift personally to apologise.

Speaking before a TV interview, Mr Obama said: "I thought it was inappropriate, it's like she's getting an award, why are you butting in?"

He added: "The young lady seems like a perfectly nice person, she's getting her award, what's he doing up there?"
   
Chatting with CNBC reporter John Harwood, Mr Obama made an off-the-cuff remark: "He's a jackass."

The comments came to light after ABC News staff mentioned them on Twitter.

The network said some of its employees had overheard a conversation between the president and Mr Harwood and did not realise it was off the record.

The network apologised to the White House and CNBC and removed the Twitter posts.

An audio recording of the remarks was later posted on showbiz website TMZ.

Since the incident at the MTV Awards, West has admitted he was in the wrong and has said sorry.

Swift told ABC News Radio that the rapper called her after the ceremony. "He was very sincere in his apology and I accepted that apology," she said.

But she told the US chat show The View, that his behaviour had "rattled" her. - bbc

Smart Communications Inc. (SMART), the country’s leading wireless services provider, launched today a new service that enables SMART Buddy and SMART Gold subscribers to make unlimited calls to over 38 million mobile phone users on the SMART network.

Called Smartalk, the new service will be available starting June 26, does not require any changes in SIM or cell phone number, and can be enjoyed by SMART Buddy and SMART Gold subscribers.
                                                                                     
SMART subscribers will be able to avail of the service by purchasing loads for unlimited calls which come in two denominations. The first is “Smartalk 100” which for P100 offers 5 days of unlimited calls to any subscriber on the SMART network anywhere in the country, at any time of the day.

Another variant, “Smartalk 500”, offers 30 days of unlimited calls to any subscriber on the SMART network for only P500 â€" effectively reducing the cost to as low as P17 for a whole day of unlimited calling to any number within the country’s largest mobile subscriber base.

“With this new service, SMART subscribers all over the country need only one phone, one SIM, and one number, to be able to make unlimited, crystal-clear calls to over 38 million SMART numbers anytime, anywhere,” said Orlando B. Vea, Chief Wireless Advisor of SMART, and also one of its founders.

“This is our way of helping out our subscribers in these difficult times and is our response to the government’s call for more affordable telecommunications services,” added Vea.

“This is the ultimate unlimited. Smartalk re-writes the rules in the way ‘unlimited’ mobile services are made available to Filipinos -- no other service offering provides unlimited, nationwide calling to a subscriber base as large as SMART’s, while assuring callers of crystal-clear signal quality anywhere in the country,” said Danilo Mojica, head of SMART’s wireless consumer division.

SMART Buddy prepaid subscribers may avail of Smartalk through registration. A subscriber just needs to send Talk100 to 6400 for a Smartalk 100 package, or Talk500 to 6400 for a Smartalk 500 load. The payment for the package bought will be automatically deducted from subscriber’s prepaid load, and they just need to have a P1 maintaining balance.

They can also buy these Smartalk packages as a load from any of over a million SMART Load retailers all over the country.

When making a call using the Smartalk unlimited package, SMART Buddy subscribers just need to dial *6400 plus the 11-digit subscriber number being called, eg., *640009181234567.

Subscribers of SMART Gold, the telco’s pioneering postpaid brand, may also stretch their monthly budget for mobile services by availing of Smartalk.

All SMART Gold subscribers from Plan 800 and up may avail of 30 days of unlimited calls to any number within the SMART network, with Smartalk 500. They just need to send Talk500 to 6400 to purchase the package, and the 500-peso charge will be billed on top of their monthly service fee (MSF).

SMART Gold subscribers can also purchase Smartalk 100 or Smartalk 500, from any of over a million SMART Load retailers all over the country. This is best for post-paid subscribers who prefer to stay within their MSF cap yet need to avail of unlimited calling service through the convenience of a prepaid package.

SMART is widely credited for having made mobile phone services much more affordable and accessible, when it introduced sachet-size packets of prepaid airtime through Smart Load. The electronic load platform has also enabled SMART to offer a wide variety of call and text packages that are specially designed to be affordable, and made available through a wide network of retailers present in every corner of the country.

“Over the years we have progressively lowered the costs of our services and designed our offers to truly meet the varying needs and purchasing power of our subscribers. By offering Smartalk -- a service that’s easy to understand, ubiquitous, and affordable â€" SMART once again transforms the playing field and offers real value to mobile subscribers,” Vea said.

Smartalk will be offered nationwide until September 30, 2009. - press release

The move to convert the Central Visayas State College of Agriculture, Forestry and Technology (CVSCAFT) into a state university has encountered a snag due to the section on the transfer of the main campus from Bilar town to Tagbilaran.

Resolution no. 073 of the Bilar municipal council requested Sen. Manuel Roxas III to retain the CVSCAFT main campus in the town whether the school is converted to a state university of not. It was passed unanimously last July 3.

Sponsored by Councilor Henry Vidal, the resolution said the then Bohol Agricultural College (BAC) was elevated as the CVSCAFT main campus in 1998 by virtue of Republic Act 8569.

Vidal noted that the school is strategically located and has an area of 89.53 hectares, a part of which is titled to BAC and a forest reserve and forest academic research area of 3,020 hectares suitable for all forms of expansion.

The resolution added that the Bilar campus is the only main campus of a state college offering Agriculture and Forestry courses in Region 7 and is the center of national researches in coconut, vermin-culture and jatropha.

It pointed out that the Tagbilaran campus is merely offering technology courses offered by other established schools in the city and the region.

The resolution also stressed that there was no consultation done in the transfer of the main campus to Tagbilaran with its conversion into a state university.

In response, the Bohol provincial board (PB) passed Resolution No. 2009-447 strongly supporting the Bilar council resolution.

The resolution, sponsored by Board Member Corazon Galbreath, said the PB is not opposed to the proposal to turn the CVSCAFT into a state university but is “strongly opposed to the manner by which it is being facilitated”.

A former Bilar mayor, Galbreath said she found it “appalling” that under the proposed bill, the main campus of the new state university shall be transferred to Tagbilaran despite the objection of the municipality of Bilar .

Mayor Fanuel Cadeliña said the town has “all the reasons to claim the retention of the main campus of the CVSCAFT in Bilar.

In his letter to Vice Gov. Julius Caesar Herrera, Roxas revealed that House Bill No. 5638 entitled “An Act Converting the (CVSACFT), its units and satellite campuses in the City of Tagbilaran and in the municipalities of Bilar, Candijay, Clarin, Calape and Balilihan, all located in the Province to be Known as the Bohol Island State University (Bisu) and Appropriating Funds Therefore” was passed by the Senate on third and final reading last Aug. 18.

HB 5638 was filed in the Senate last Feb. 16 with Bohol solons Edgar Chatto, Roberto Cajes and Adam Relson Jala and Representatives Cynthia Villar and Junie Cua as authors.

 The Korean scientist who perfected the process of extracting bio-ethanol from red algae visited Bohol anew for tests to determine the suitability of its seawaters to the propagation of the seaweeds.

  Dr. Gyungsoo Kim, chief executive officer of Biolsystems Co,, Ltd. with address at the West Tower, Yeoksam-Dong, Kangnan-Gu, Seoul, Korea, brought three research fellows for an initial investigation of the marine environmental conditions in Talibon town.

  Kim and Bohol Gov. Erico Aumentado had signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) for the project last July at the Bohol Tropics Resort in Tagbilaran City

  The MOU prepared by First Secretary of the Korean Embassy Young Joon Kim who is a lawyer and Provincial Legal Officer Handel Lagunay specified that Bohol will supply three hectares as test area for aquaculture, 500 hectares for seedling plantation area and a minimum of 25,000 hectares up to 100,000 hectares for the aquaculture proper â€" for 50 years and extendable for another 25 years as allowed by existing Philippine laws, rules and regulations on investment.

  The MOU further specified that Bohol will make available 60 hectares for the ethanol production factory and residential area for the workers, and facilitate the grant of incentives like tax holidays, among others.

  Aumentado said the 60-hectare area will be cut out of the consolidated 100 hectares in Talibon now collating documents and completing requirements for its declaration as a special economic zone (SEZ).

  Biolsystems plans to build a US$100-million facility that will need more than 300 workers for ethanol extraction in the area. The MOU tasked the province, in coordination with the military and the police, to secure it.

  On top of leading investments for ethanol production and post-harvest industries to Bohol, it undertakes to conduct research and development on improved cultivation methods, specifically for the higher yield algae species and its farming and marketing methods.

  Aumentado expressed elation when the MOU stated that Biolsystems will give preference to Bohol residents when hiring their workers and ensure that the projects covered by the MOU will not destroy Bohol’s environment nor impair its eco-tourism status and potentials.

  Following a courtesy call on Talibon Mayor Juanario Item, Kim and his party, escorted by personnel of the Provincial Agriculture Office (PAO) who take charge of marine aquaculture, and the town’s fisheries watch team who acted as guides, went out to sea on board a pumpboat.

  Along the way to the seaweeds farm of Municipal Councilor Gershon Dulang, Kim and Juwan Noh, Ho Jeh Lee and Sang Uk Lee took turns in testing the salinity of the water. At the periphery of the farm, two of them dove and took samples of the sea bottom that turned out to be coarse sand.

  Kim said the variety he wants to propagate â€" Eucheuma cottonii â€" grows better in muddy bottom. The guides that included a marine biologist who scuba dived recently in different spots in the vicinity immediately pointed to the side with the muddy bottom.

  Because of the volume Kim needs, he said he will teach the locals deep sea cottonii farming, and introduce driers to make the process quicker.

  Because of the volume Kim needs, he said he will teach the locals deep sea cottonii farming, and introduce driers to make the process quicker.

  The team met a smaller pumpboat loaded with newly harvested algae of the espinosum variety that, still wet, sells at only P2 a kilo. Kim’s team nonetheless got a sample to sun-dry for study purposes.

  From the sea, the team visited the proposed SEZ in Barangay Bagacay.

  Kim and Noh proceeded to Cebu that same night to scout around for buoys and ropes for the seedling farm. The scientist said if they find good quality materials there, this would mean less freight and handling fees as they will not need to import them from Korea anymore.

  On the other hand, the two Lees returned to Talibon the following day to conduct more tests and look for temporary living quarters until such time that they can build their housing units near the plant site.

  Kim thanked Item for the support, including the continued use of a pumpboat to further check the sea and the sea bottom to identify ideal sites for the seedling farm. - Sunday Post

Manila Job Vacancy: Pharmacy, Store Clerk

Qualifications:
Single, Female, between 21-27 years old
At least 2nd year college level
Preferably with one year job experience but not necessary
Computer literate
Willing to work long hours
Honest, dependable and resourceful
Can work under pressure with minimal supervision

Requirements:
Detailed resume or biodate with picture
Transcript of records or school grades

Just fax to 733-1081 or email to groserealty@yahoo.com.ph

ad source: manila bulletin

Trinidad holds barangay congress ‘09
By Manuel Ferdinand Ramirez de Erio, MPIO

Trinidad town mayor Judith del Rosario-Cajes never seemed to get tired in rendering her services for Trinidad.   

A week after the celebration of the 62nd town anniversary, mayor Cajes together with vice mayor Francisco U. Gonzales with the members of the Sangguniang Bayan spearheaded the 20 barangays of Trinidad in the Trinidad Barangay Congress 2009 with the theme: “panaghiusa, yawe sa kalambuan”.

Mayor Cajes reported before the barangay officials the accomplishments of her administration that range from infrastructure, social services, education to health services and others. 

The video presentation of the projects have exhibited the milestones of mayor Cajes and vice mayor Gonzales tandem of leadership where it was clearly send the difference of the Trinidad before the Cajes-Gonzales tandem and after the present administration has served its first 2 years.

Likewise, vice mayor Gonzales reported on the legislative milestones of the Sangguniang Bayan which demonstrates the health relationship and cooperation of the executive and legislative bodies in the local government unit.

The local chief executive and the sangguniang bayan presented the accomplishments together with the guests congressmen Roberto Cajes (second district) and Edgar Chatto (first district).

The congress was also the venue of the awarding ceremonies for the winners of TOBOY. The awardees were: Fernando Erio of Brgy. San Vicente and Nida Quisto of Brgy. Hinlayagan Ilaya for the Punong Barangay Category; Jaime Boncales of Brgy. M. Cabiguhan and Exuperio Villanueva of Brgy. Banlasan for the barangay kagawad category; Ma. Teresa Quiriado of Brgy. M. Roxas and Rizalina Rosios of Brgy. Poblacion for the barangay secretary category; Marlon Dilao of Brgy. Catoogan and Flordeliza Lofranco of Brgy. San Vicente for the barangay treasurer category; and, Marien Apaap of Brgy. Hinlayagan Ilaya and Jay Apao of Brgy. San Vicente for the SK Chairman Category, respectively.

The LGU has continued to conduct annual evaluation of barangays which also recognize top-performing barangays; the Most Outstanding Barangay was awarded to Brgy. Kinan-oan headed by punong barangay Antonino Cajes followed by Brgy. Sto. Tomas headed by punong barangay Segundo Dungog and 2nd runner-up Brgy. Soom under the leadership of punong barangay Roland Ibale.

Model Purok at the municipal level were also awarded to Purok 5 of Brgy. San Isidro, 1st runner-up is Purok 1 of Brgy. Hinlayagan Ilaya, 2nd runner-up Purok 6 of Brgy. Sto. Tomas.

The congress was conducted at the September 10-11, 2009 at the Grand Majestic Convention Center, Cebu City, and was facilitated by Municipal Local Government Operations Officer Nilda P. Unajan. 

The speakers were the chief of the Regional operations services division of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG-ROVII) Atty. Danilo Almendras and the representative from Civil Service Commission Region VII Atty. Ariel Bacatan representative. 

The congress included an eco-cultural exposure in municipalities and communities in Cebu who have successfully implemented their solid waste management program for replication in the barangays of Trinidad.

      Complaints of abuses prompted the barangay council of Talisay to pass a resolution requesting the governor to pull out the Citizens Armed Forces Geographic Units (CAFGU) that operates in barangay Talisay here under the auspices of the Philippine Army.

     The complaints include alleged attempted rape, drunkenness, indiscriminate firing, environmental concern and stabbing.

     Barangay Talisay, under the leadership of village head Magdalino Gultiano, passed Resolution 13 on August 21, requesting Governor Erico Aumentado “to pull out the Civilian Auxiliary Army (CAA) Detachment 3rd BHL Echo “Coy” 521B of the 81D Philippine Army” based in the barangay.  

     â€œThey (CAFGUs) are the supposed protectors of the civilians in times of war and peace, however, they are the abuser of our barangay,” barangay officials stated in the resolution.

     The barangay council unanimously approved the resolution that alleged “several abuses” by CAFGU members.

     â€œThese (abuses) involved an attempted rape of a certain Juanita Libot,” the resolution cited.

     A certain Arsenia Jandayan also narrated how the CAFGU men initiated fights and hit civilians, while some of them had been drunkards and some engaged in indiscriminate firing while under the influence of liquor which threatened the villagers.

     The resolution further accused CAFGU men of having littered their human wastes in the vicinity of houses nearby their camp, because of the absence of toilets.

     The council also cited complaints of some residents whose young coconuts were harvested by the CAFGUs, leaving them nothing to harvest.

     The most serious complaint that the resolution cited was the stabbing incident that occurred during the disco in the dawn of August 17 during the celebration of San Roque fiesta.

     â€œThe stabbing incident seriously involved a certain Reynaldo “Nano” Hinampas, a CAFGU member as suspect but is now at large,” the resolution cited.

     Hinampas escaped, the resolution said, with the help of his brother, Jose- -also a CAFGU member- -using the service motorcycle as getaway vehicle.

     â€œInstead of detaining the suspect, they facilitated the escape,” the resolution criticized.

     The barangay officials of Talisay pointed out that the governor must “eject the detachment from its present location” immediately to avoid “further untoward incident.”

     The Philippine Army said that the said abuses are reportedly perpetrated by the CAFGUs in their private capacity and not in line of their duties.

     It said that it does not tolerate such abuses committed by the CAFGU and those found guilty will suffer the consequences.

     The barangay furnished the Commission on Human Rights in Bohol, a copy of the resolution, for investigation. (RVO)  

source: Sunday Post

Why won't we spell Panglao as Panglaw?

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News from Cebu Pacific Office

CEB begins Osaka seat sale in time for fall season
Offers P2,499 promo

We're offering a P2,499 seat sale for the Manila-Osaka route starting now until September 21, 2009. This is valid for travel from October 15 to December 15, 2009.

The travel period for the seat sale coincides with the fall season of the Kansai area, which covers Osaka and Kyoto. Kyoto is half an hour away from Osaka by special service train.

Don't miss out on Kyoto’s fall foliage spots such as Arashiyama, Kiyomizu-dera Temple and the Kyoto Imperial Palace from mid-October to early December. Book now at www.cebupacificair.com!

CEB flies from Manila to Osaka every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday. The service departs Manila at 2:00pm, and departs Osaka at 7:20pm.

If it were just a joke, I don't feel it appropriate to be posted in public. But everyone deserves to be listened to. It is too early to judge her, Keko. It is only after you've spent some time with her that you will have an idea what kind of woman she is.

If she's really a gold digger, please don't think that she represents the quetessential Filipina image. Thank you for sharing your emotional trauma on this issue.

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ANOTHER OMBUDSMAN CASE IN THE MAKING
(an editorial of the Bohol Chronicle)

If City Hall and its allies don't watch out - they could be setting up another powder keg that only needs a match to ignite.

Take the case of the supplemental budget of P15 million (to pay landowners at the Dampas dump site) approved last Friday by the tyranny of numbers of the Majority bloc - against the rightful objection of the Minority.

If City Hall was a private corporation, it is a clear railroading of a budget appropriation that should call the attention of the Board of Directors.

For that to be approved, transparency and professionalism dictate that the names of the lot owners, the number of landowners involved and the size of their respective lots will have to be presented - as landmark basis for approving a huge P15 million of the people's money.

Be that as it may, when the deal is consummated - and the landowners are supposedly paid - the COA and independent anti-corruption crusaders can always verify the "cash-for-land" transaction in official public documents and will be measured by the zonal and market values (of the real estate) which are of public knowledge.

Surprisingly, the area is estimated at 2 hectares, more or less, which would mean that a dumpsite area would cost government no less than P650/sqm when the market value is only about P200/sq.m. Added to this, the lot to be paid is the area where the illegal dump site is situated since open dump sites were closed by DENR in 2006 under RA 9003, but is still being used until today.

Real ownership of the titles by the claimed owners can also be independently verified.

A case can still be built in the future, regardless of how opaque the Majority passed the Supplemental Budget last Friday.

Because, as they say, the day of reckoning will always come - as easily and as unerringly as Friday follows a Thursday.

Lack of transparency is a disease that has become the rule rather than the exception in many of City Hall deals.

For instance, all City Accountant Kurt Bongabong has to do is to present supporting documents at the SP to show that the 22 vouchers declared by the COA as "missing" are indeed in his possession, as Kagawad Zenaido Rama rightly declared.

Likewise, top-notch lawyer acting as private citizen Atty. Victor de la Serna's demand that City Mayor's gag order on the P20-million unliquidated advances in 2008 (found in COA's Report) be lifted is morally correct so that once and for all the City of Tagbilaran residents - who have all the right to know - can be at peace that scoundrels have indeed not stolen their money.

Or had used it for other extraneous purposes other than as approved - since it is taking forever for them to be liquidated.

The City lawyer de la Serna had no choice but to compare that getting public documents from the Capitol takes only 30 minutes - as it should - while the City has to go through a lot of hemming and hewing just to be able to tell people where their money went.

Methods of governance - because people follow by example - between the City and the Province, in matters of access to public documents, are a whale of a difference.

One is noteworthy, the other is both shameful and shameless. It proves, that one of them has something awful to hide.

It cannot be otherwise.

The P15-million supplemental budget to pay-off lots at the dump site in barangay Dampas, this city is being questioned.

City Kagawad Bebin Inting said he will verify reports that lots in the area were sold at P70 only some two years ago.

With the appropriation of P15 million for a 2.3-hectare lot, the city government has allotted P650 per square meter which is way beyond the prevailing price.

Cogon Barangay Captain Fredison Ingles said the prevailing real property value at the dump site is P200 per square meter. He was surprised upon hearing that the city government has budgeted P15 million for a two-hectare lot with only three lot owners affected.

During Friday's session of the Sangguniang Panlungsod, City Kagawad Edgar Kapirig also questioned why the P15 million be approved as part of the other appropriations intended for salary adjustments of city hall officials and employees. He recommended that the appropriation be split into two, separating the budget intended for the lot acquisition since it was not as urgent compared to the salary adjustments.         

The SP approved last Friday the supplemental budget of P21,220,352.00 with P15 million for the purchase of lots, P2.5 million for construction of pumping stations and P1.6 million for road network.

Kagawad Inting also opted to hold in abeyance the approval of the budget intended for lot acquisition at the dump site.

However, a casting of votes generated a majority calling for the approval of the P21-million supplemental budget.

CLOSED DUMP SITE

Under laws of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the dump site in Dampas is technically considered closed.

PENRO Nestor Canda told the Chronicle yesterday that per RA 9003, open dumpsites like the one in barangay Dampas were considered close as of Feb. 16, 2006.

He said the city government should have been the lead agency to implement the opening of a sanitary land fill to replace the open dump site. However, the city government is far from realizing this project for a sanitary land fill earlier proposed in Taloto district, this city.

City kagawad Inting questioned why spend that much when the usage of the lot in Dampas is temporary once the sanitary land fill project be realized. - the bohol chronicle

Okay, you are a woman and you are already a billionaire at 25. What will you look for a husband?

The Kiss: Drew Barrymore and Ellen Page

Let us not overstrain our abilities, or we shall do nothing with grace. A clown, whatever he may do, will never
pass for a gentleman. - La Fontaine

The son who delights his father by his good actions; the wife who seeks only her husband's good; the friend
who is the same in prosperity and adversity--these three things are the reward of virtue. - Bhartrihari.

Like an earthen pot, a bad man is easily broken, and cannot readily be restored to his former situation; but a
virtuous man, like a vase of gold, is broken with difficulty, and easily repaired. - Hetopadisa

Every moment that a man may be in want of employment, than such I hold him to be far better who is forced
to labour for nothing. - Afghan.

Knowledge is destroyed by associating with the base; with equals equality is gained, and with the
distinguished, distinction. - Hitopadesa.

Survey leader Sen. Manuel Villar is forecasted to gather several town mayors to his Nacionalista Party when he visits the province on Saturday.

The senator who is one of the leading presidential contenders earlier came to the province to induct more than 25 municipal mayors belonging to the administration Lakas-Kampi. However, due to pressure from Malacanang, Gov. Erico Aumentado called the mayors to re-take their oath of party allegiance to Lakas-Kampi of which he is the regional and provincial chairman.

Aumentado, Bohol's political kingpin is also identified with Sen. Villar as both have sealed their friendship when the former served Villar as deputy House speaker.         

However, Gov. Aumentado will find it difficult to bolt the administration Lakas-Kampi with his closeness to Pres. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

There are reports that Vice Gov. Julius Herrera who is interested to run for governor is reportedly ready to open his support for Villar while Aumentado will stick it out with Arroyo.

Unconfirmed reports said that Herrera will take his allegiance to NP during Villar's visit this Saturday.

Presently, there are seven town mayors already with the Nacionalista Party, namely Carmen Mayor Boy Molina, Baclayon Mayor Alvin Uy, Calape Mayor Yu, Alburquerque Mayor Jalad, Bien Unido Mayor Boniel, Guindulman Mayor Fe Piezas, Alicia Mayor Pedro Miasco and San Isidro Mayor Paul Gumanid.

Sen. Villar will be here for a gathering of the municipal councilors. He will separately meet with the town mayors later in the day. - the bohol chronicle

A city lawmaker called the city accountant to appear during next Friday's session of the Sangguniang Panlungsod amid public clamor for transparency revolving on the missing vouchers and the P20 million unliquidated cash advances as reported by the Commission on Audit.

In his privilege speech delivered last Friday, City Kagawad Zenaido "Djingo" Rama lambasted City Accountant Kurt Bungabong for being "very elusive these past few days."

He reminded the city accountant he is "not only dealing with the Sangguniang Panlungsod but with the entire people of the city in whose interests we are all duty bound to preserve and safeguard."

"He owes us respect because we are elected officials, representing the people who voted us to this council," the lawmaker stressed while saying that this is "not the first time that Bungabong displayed utter disrespect not only to me but to the Sangguniang Panlungsod as well."

The lawmaker said he could not remember, even for once, that the city accountant "acceded to the call for transparency and accountability."

He asked the city accountant to end his "pathetic defenses despite the very clear observations of the city auditor as appearing in the 2007 and 2008 Audit Reports."

Rama called the city accountant to present the supporting documents in order to disprove apprehensions of some ghost deliveries covered under the missing vouchers covering expenditures amounting to P7.9 million.

BUNGABONG'S REPLY

Bungabong presented to the public an update of the missing vouchers issue during a radio interview last Sept. 5 wherein he stated that some of the vouchers were already transmitted to COA last May 12 this year.         

He mentioned in particular the vouchers for 3M Industrial Sales amounting to P1,859,904.39 and for E. Butalid Store, P2,848,843.70 and P225,000. He likewise mentioned that the vouchers with Mark Leo Monton as payee amounting to P291,987 were not yet ready for transmittal to COA as of Sept. 5, 2009 even as the disbursements were done last year.

However, during that radio interview, the city accountant failed to mention details of the specific items purchased as covered in the vouchers amounting to P7.9 million.

AWAITING REPLY

Kagawad Rama said the city accountant did not bother to answer his letter request for supporting documents.

"While the city accountant claimed the documents are intact in his office, he could not provide the city lawmakers copies of these supporting papers," Rama stressed.

The lawmaker challenged the city accountant that "If there is nothing to hide, then attend next Friday's session in the spirit of genuine transparency."

MAYOR BLAMES COA

City mayor Dan Lim blamed the Commission on Audit on these recent developments revolving in the release of the audit reports.

In a letter to COA Regional Director Delfin Aguilar, the mayor charged the COA to be "active participant in partisan politics," instead of safeguarding government funds.

The mayor in his letter dated Sept. 3, told the COA auditor that "issues have put the Local Government of Tagbilaran particularly the undersigned in a bad light."

He questioned why the 2008 annual audit report "found its way to various personalities other than the addresses."

The mayor asked that the local state auditors should comment on the report so that the truth can be told and for the public to know the real score.

On the reported 22 missing vouchers, the mayor denied the COA report saying the "vouchers are complete and are being safeguarded at the accounting
office." He also mentioned that said missing vouchers were transmitted to COA in May this year.

However, City Accountant Bungabong admitted that some vouchers were not yet transmitted as of Sept. 5 this year like the vouchers involving Mark Leo Monton, top aide of the city mayor. - the bohol chronicle

Gov. Erico Aumentado is awaiting a major announcement on the administration's presidential standard bearer for the 2010 elections.

He confirmed to the Chronicle receiving a call from Malacanang asking him to be "on stand by" for call this Wednesday.

On the same day, Pres. Arroyo will meet with the execom of the Lakas-Kampi of which Gov. Aumentado is a member being the regional and provincial chairman for Central Visayas and Bohol, respectively.         

"It remains to be very fluid on who will be the anointed presidential standard bearer of the administration," Gov. Aumentado said. However, he confirms that in the short list of presidentiables are Defense Secretary Gibo Teodoro and Vice Pres. Noli de Castro while the possibility of Sen. Manuel Villar get into the list remains possible.

The governor said that the "stand by" order from the Palace did not divulge details of Wednesday's meeting.

Aside from the political party meeting, the governor is slated to meet with Pres. Arroyo on the much delayed Panglao Bohol International Airport.

In fact, he was in Cagayan de Oro City yesterday to observe the ongoing construction of the new CDO domestic airport.

The governor remains optimistic that the construction of the new airport in Panglao can commence before the May 2010 polls. - the bohol chronicle

Stakeholders of the Congress-approved law converting the Central Visayas State College of Agriculture, Forestry and Technology (CVSCAFT) to Bohol Island State University (BISU) are strongly battling for the retention of the main campus in Bilar town.

Teachers, students, Bilar officials and alumni, accused the officials of the CVSCAFT including the Board of Trustees (BoT) of proposing the school's main campus shift from Bilar to Tagbilaran City for "operational convenience" and not for "operational efficiency."

Spearheading the campus retention, lady Board Member Ester Corazon J. Galbreath, told the committee meeting last week, "I'm not convinced of the operational efficiency" as the reason for the planned transfer.

If that's the main reason then, "That means that your employees are not efficient if they will be working in Bilar instead of Tagbilaran or just for operational convenience because most of them are living in Tagbilaran or from Tagbilaran," Galbreath bluntly told CVSCAFT president Dr. Elpidio Magante who attended the said meeting.

Magante appeared doing the Pontius Pilate and told the meeting that "It's not me who decided the main campus shall be in Tagbilaran City. It's the board of trustees."

He explained that when he took over the presidency, it was the BOT that decided to transfer his office to Tagbilaran City.         

He said that operational efficiency in the transfer of the main campus is considered because of the "nearness of Tagbilaran City to the airport (or) to the port and Tagbilaran is the nerve center of communication and transportation. For example, (school) visitors coming from Manila could easily be entertained in Tagbilaran City. And there are so many things that operational efficiency could be the main reason. It is not for convenience."

Galbreath countered, "Why the Los Banos (referring to University of the Philippines Los Banos, Laguna) was not transferred to Manila which is farther than Bilar-Tagbilaran.? The original bill provides that Bilar is the main campus."

SUPPORT

Galbreath's struggle for the retention of the main campus in Bilar got the support from the stakeholders as well.

Bilar Sangguniang Bayan passed Resolution No. 073, series of 2009, "requesting Sen. Mar Roxas, chairman, Committee on Higher and Technical Education, Senate, to retain CVSCAFT system whether the status of the CVSCAFT be catapulted to the status of State University or not."

And the Sangguniang Panlalawigan also pitched support to Bilar Resolution.

Bilar Resolution accused the CVSCAFT administration that "there was no consultation done" in the proposed transfer of the main campus.

"CVSCAFT Bilar is strategically located and has an area of 89.53 hectares, part of which is titled to Bohol Agricultural College and a Forest Reserve/forest Academic Research Area of 3,020 hectares suitable for all forms of expansion when the State College be converted into a state university," the Bilar Resolution said.

The said Resolution stressed that the main campus here is already in place because of the "exemplary performance of the staff and faculty" that contributed to the points for the State College to be raised to Level II."

Avelina D. Escudero, president of CAVSCAFT Bilar Faculty Association and association secretary Manolito C. Macalolot told the meeting that the students and faculty are one that in opposing the said transfer.

Macalolot said the students leaders made a signature campaign for the retention of the main campus.

Bilar councilor Henry Vidal hastened to say that the council agreed to the conversion but not the campus transfer. He lamented that the council has been "ignored" by school administration. "We shouldn't be blamed that there is now containment. Now, we are quite dismayed to the fact that something is brewing and we've never been informed."

SENATE ACT

Senator Mar Roxas, chair of the education committee, has informed Vice-Gov. Julius Herrera that House Bill No. 5638, converting the CVSCAFT to BISU, was already passed by the Senate on August 18, 2009.

The senator said in his letter to Herrera that the bill recognizes the important role of the university as the "training ground for Bohol 's and the country's succeeding generations and future leaders."

Also Included in the BISU satellite campuses are those located in Candijay, Clarin, Calape, and Balilihan, the law provides.

Those who favored the approval of the said bill include senators Benigno Aqiono III, Joker Arroyo, Pia Cayetano, Jinggoy Estrada, Juan Ponce Enrile, Francis Esucero, Richard Gordon, Gregorio Honasan, Panfilo Lacson, Loren Legarda, Francis Pangilinan, Aquilio Pimentel, Jr., Ramon Revilla, Jr., Mar Roxas and Juan Miguel Zubiri.

House sponsors are Reps. Edgar Chatto, Rberto Cajes, Adam Relson Jala, and congressmen Javier, Remulla , Del Mar,Padilla, Madrona, Nicolas, Amatong, Aquino, Mitra, De Guzman, Garay, and Angping. -Ric V Obedencio

Fast lane in business transactions called the Bohol Business One-Stop Shop (BOSS) has recently been fine-tuned through the Bohol Investment Promotion Center (BIPC) to fast-track the entry of investors to the province.

It just came in time as the go-signal for the US$100-million bio-ethanol plant of the Korean government's Biolsystems, Inc. came a week after the Department of Trade and Industry and BIPC hosted the BOSS harmonization workshop on August 25 at Seglim Function Room of Bohol Tropics Resort.

In his inspirational message during the event, Governor Erico Aumentado- -who also chairs the Bohol Investment Board- -said that with Bohol One-Stop Shop (BOSS) the provincial government will be able to respond immediately to the requirements of investment in Bohol, especially with the coming in of investors.

Biolsytems, Inc. will be occupy 60 hectares of the 100-hectare special economic zone of Talibon to house its bio-ethanol processing plant in the.

On the other hand, a Japanese investor will be occupying 20 hectares in the special economic zone that will be Bohol's industrial park.         

Anchored on the strong government support, the BOSS concept has been adopted in nine towns here as an annual practice in time for the renewal of business licenses that has streamlined business processes and licensing systems in the towns of Talibon, Ubay, Tubigon, Jagna, Maribojoc, Cortes, Antequera, Catigbian and Balilihan.

To elaborate on Bohol's investment scorecard, BIPC Head Maria Fe Dominise gave a PowerPoint presentation on the Investment Prospects on the island Province of Bohol.

She cited the edge of Bohol as one of the top tourist destinations in the country, to be dubbed as "a promising location for both business and pleasure and that Bohol provides quality services at competitive costs in a resort environment that offers a high quality of life".

Through the BOSS, BPIC intends to "encourage investments and enterprises to locate in the province by making business registration procedures simpler and easier as it will house mandated and partner agencies involved in business registration application under one roof," Dominise explained.

The governor even mentioned about renovating the BIPC office to a larger one to be able to accommodate clients.

Dominise also cited the Bohol Investment Code which offers fiscal Incentives like exemption from real property tax for seven years, tax credit of 10 percent of the total cost of infrastructure to be deducted from future real property tax liability within a period of seven years.

The non-fiscal incentives include assistance and services of BIPC and services of the BOSS like registration of businesses permits, facilitating licenses requirements, and assistance in the preparation of project studies from certified BDSPs.

The BIPIC head also explained that "we need to create opportunities that spur sound economic activities through investments/enterprises that provide sustainable livelihood and quality employment for people".

This is "to create wealth in Bohol through entrepreneurial profit, and the purchasing power from quality employment", she said.

Dominise also cited that 60 percent or 716,000 of the 1.2 million Boholanos compose the labor force, while seven percent or 50,000 remain unemployed.

"Bohol is an attractive and competitive destination for business; therefore, let us put our acts together to create opportunities now!" Dominise called on Boholanos. - the Bohol Chronicle

By the Bohol Chronicle

An expose' which was intended to be a long running investigation of an alleged bingo protector ended before it begun.

City Kagawad Danilo Bantugan, in his privilege speech last Friday, caught much media coverage when he challenged a full dress investigation of a city councilor who allegedly offered protection money for the lawmakers in order to ensure that the daily bingo operation at the top level of the Island City Mall will continue.

"I have all the evidences in my hand," Bantugan shouted at the top of his voice.   

RAMA, BANTUGAN

while saying that signatures of the city councilor appeared in documents which are part of the evidences.

The lawmakers agreed that city legal counsel Doni Piquero will handle the probe so it will not excuse any member of the city SP from being investigated.

During the mayor's radio program yesterday, the anchormen put pressure on Bantugan to divulge the name of the city lawmaker whom he alleged as the "protector" of the bingo operation. He politely declined to name names as he wants the Piquero probe team to issue statements once the investigation will be completed.

In fact, Bantugan sounded optimistic that formal charges can be filed against the lawmaker.

The drumbeating in the airlanes for the said expose' reached its peak when a paid hack of city hall started to insinuate that once the kagawad is identified, a signature campaign will be conducted for his ouster as a city kagawad.

Bantugan said the probe should be done fast in order to clear the name of the city kagawads.         

But, few minutes after Bantugan was interviewed over the airlanes, City Kagawad Zenaido Rama called the radio program to "tell it all" regarding the allegations of a "protector."

Rama shocked the anchormen when he admitted that there are checks of the bingo company issued under his name.

But, he was quick to state that the checks were issued to him not because he was their protector, but as an investor.

In the first place, why should such legitimate business needs a protector, Rama asked.

What would need a protector is the illegal swertres, but not a legitimate bingo operation, he continued.

Rama recalled that sometime in 2004, three years before he was elected as city councilor, he got invited to invest in the bingo operation owned by Limkitkai, a wealthy businessman from Cagayan de Oro City.

Together with businessman John Yap (brother-in-law of Mayor Dan Lim) they invested P500,000 to open the bingo operations here.

"And, that's precisely the reason why checks under my name were issued by the bingo operator", Rama explained which ended an expose' before it could take off.

"I pity Bantugan and his mastermind for being poor researchers," Rama said.

Asked if he continues to receive checks from the bingo operations, Rama said "not anymore after the Cagayan partner was pressured by Mayor Lim to kick us (me and Yap) out as partners in the business sometime in 2007, few months after he got elected as city councilor.

He narrated that his partnership in the bingo operations ended after Mayor Lim told Limkitkai that city hall will not renew its mayor's permit if Rama and Yap will not be kicked out from the business. I was serving then my first year as city councilor.

If Bantugan insists the investigation to continue, then "I'm afraid I might have more documents to show," Rama concluded.

Do not wait to strike till the iron is hot; but make it hot by striking. - William B. Sprague

Weird Facts About Birth Control

-Did you know the pills that we take today actually work on chimpanzees??

-The oldest known condoms, around 1640, were made of fish intestines!! Yuck!

-The Egyptians around 1850 BC used crocodile dung as a contraceptive. And croc dung is pure alkaline!! What a risk!

-Charles Goodyear, yes as in Goodyear tires, patentted the first rubber condom.

-During WW1, condoms in the US finally became legal. And troops ignored the advice to abstain from sex.

“When God gave you to me he never said that you were mine, that I could keep you always--only borrowed for a time. Now, He's called you home, I'm sad and I shed tears. Yet, I'm glad He loaned you to me and we had these many years.” - by Edna T. Burch

May balita na galing mismo sa coach/trainer ni Manny Pacquiao na si Freddie Roach na disappointed ito ngayon kay Pacman dahil ‘di nito siniseryoso ang nalalapit na laban kay Miguel Cotto.
   
Makailang beses na raw tinatanong ni Roach si Pacman kung kailan magsisimulang mag-training dahil mahirap daw kalaban ang naturang Puerto Rican boxer pero wala raw isinasagot ang Pambansang Kamao. Anyway, nakarating kay Manny ang pangamba ng kanyang coach/trainer at nangako na magte-training siya sa tamang araw.
   
Sa ngayon ay naka-focus pa si Pacman sa sitcom niyang  Show Me Da Manny sa GMA7 at iba pang TV commitments.   
   
Inspirado si Manny sa acting career niya lalo na ngayong maganda at mataas ang rating ng SMDM kung saan kasama niya sina Marian Rivera, Lovi Poe, Tuesday Vargas, Rochelle Pangilinan  sa direksyon ni Uro dela Cruz na siya ring direktor ng nangungunang gag show na Bubble Gang sa GMA7. - Tonee Coraza, Journal

A real guy would never accept a gay role in movie. Never.

NAG-CELEBRATE si Ogie Alcasid ng kanyang 42nd birthday just recently at  niregaluhan siya ni Re-  gine Velasquez ng bagong recording equipment para sa kanyang home recording studio.
   
“Si Regine mismo ang nag-isip nito dahil alam ni-yang ito ang kailangan ko. At  para tama ang nabili ni-ya,  ako na mismo ang nag-order. Wala pa nga ‘yong delivery hanggang ngayon kasi i-import pa ‘yon sa ibang bansa. Bukod dito, we just had a romatic weekend sa Tagaytay na kaming da-lawa lang,”kuwento ni Ogie.
   
Nag-celebrate din ng 7th birthday si Angelina (alter-ego ni Ogie)) nitong Sept. 1 sa Gerry’s Grill Morato.  Dumating ang kanyang proud ‘parents’ na sina Mommy at Daddy Arespacochaga (Aiko Melendez and Jomari Yllana) with mat-ching Yaya (Michael V). Da-hil isang children’s party ’yon, nagkaroon ng parlor games para sa mga press na dumalo. Finally ay ipapalabas na ang pelikulang Yaya and Angelina: The Spoiled Brat Movie sa Sept. 23. At dito na mare-reveal kung  saan galing si Yaya at ano ba tala-ga ang pangalan niya.         

“Minsan  ay napagdu-dudahan na akong bading talaga ni Regine dahil maski sa Celebrity Duets ay ma-dalas kong landiin si Akihiro Sato. Eh, wala akong magagawa kasi it’s fun to do at natatawa ang mga tao kung nagbabading-badingan ako,” pahayag ni Ogie tung-kol sa pagganap niyang ba-ding  sa TV at pelikula. - Tonee Coraza, Journal

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7xLWsO3itIA

aron imong mahibaw-an ang sinyal ni kolokoy, paminaw sa daw...

(An Editorial of [http://www.nytimes.com]The New York Times[/url]

As is the case with so many economic indicators these days, the only good thing to say about the August jobs report is that it could have been worse. Employers shed another 216,000 jobs last month, a smaller loss than expected and the lowest monthly loss total in a year.

The losses would have been worse had it not been for federal stimulus spending â€" proof that the government is indeed helping to ease the downturn in its role as the spender of last resort.

Still, the damage to the work force caused by the recession is deep, wide and ongoing. The economy is now coming up short by 9.4 million jobs, including 6.9 million positions that employers have eliminated and 2.5 million jobs that were needed to absorb new workers but were never created.

And unemployment is on the rise, jumping from 9.4 percent in July to 9.7 percent in August. For several demographic groups, the unemployment rate is already in double digits, including men (10.1 percent), Hispanics (13 percent), African-Americans (15.1 percent) and teenagers (25.5 percent). In all, 14.9 million workers are now jobless, of which fully one-third have been out of work for more than six months, the highest level of long-term unemployment by far in any post World War II recession. There are now nearly six workers available for every job opening, up from 1.7 workers per opening when the recession began in December 2007.

Worse, hiring is not expected to rebound anytime soon, even if overall economic growth resumes this year. Employers are likely to fill any additional workloads by adding hours to truncated workweeks and ending worker furloughs. Wage gains, which are always repressed when jobs are scarce and unemployment is high, will be an even longer time coming as employers restore pay cuts put in place during the recession before giving raises.

Without job growth and pay raises, consumer spending will not revive substantially because alternative sources of spending power â€" home equity and credit cards â€" are largely tapped out. And without an upsurge in spending, businesses will not add workers, and so on, in a decidedly unvirtuous cycle.

It has become commonplace to explain each dismal job report by saying that a resurgence in employment always lags general economic recovery. But with the job market severely wounded, and with consumer spending expected to be weak for a very long time, it could easily take until 2014 for employment to recover. It’s safe to say that five years or more of subpar job growth is not what most people have in mind when they think of a “lag.”

The question, then, is how bad does it have to get before the Obama administration and Congress make job creation a priority.

Will administration officials and lawmakers fight for new laws to make it easier to form unions, which are especially important in elevating and protecting the jobs of low-income workers? How will professed support for green jobs be translated into a manufacturing policy that promotes good jobs? Will efforts to improve the educational system also include serious efforts to train and retrain people for new jobs?

Help is wanted for out of work Americans.

Isang bisitang alkalde mula sa Bohol ang nasangkot sa accidental firing sa bisinidad ng Senado, ilang oras bago magbukas ang ses yon kahapon ng hapon.

Sa report ng Office of the Sergeant-At-Arms (OSAA), isang nagpakilalang San Isidro (Bohol) Mayor Apolinar ang aksidenteng naiputok ang ca liber .45 na service firearm habang idinedeposito ito sa kanilang pangangasiwa.

Walang kumpletong pangalan na ibinigay ang alkalde maliban sa San Isidro Mayor Apolinar ng Bohol province, pero tumugma sa rekord ng Department of Interior and Local Government ang pangalang San Isidro Ma yor Apolinar Gumanid.
Nangyari ang insidente ganap na alas-3:38 ng hapon sa lobby ng Senado, malapit sa pintuan patungong elevator.

Wala namang ibinigay na detalye ang mga tauhan ng OSAA kung anong pa kay ni Mayor Gumanid sa Senado at kung sinong senador ang kausap nito.
Masuwerteng walang tinamaan dahil nakatutok ang baril sa isang box na puno ng buhangin.

source: http://www.abante-tonite.com/issue/aug1109/crime_news4.htm

By JUNE S BLANCO

TRINIDAD town in Bohol , 98 kilometers northeast of Tagbilaran City , will soon have a new municipal building.

This after Gov. Erico Aumentado and Rep. Roberto Cajes of Bohol’s 2nd District committed to contribute funds to build a new town hall worth P6 million.

Using his trademark convergence strategy, Aumentado suggested a sharing scheme that Cajes readily accepted.

The governor committed P2 million from the provincial coffers while Cajes will put in P3 million from his Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) as counterpart to the P1 million ready allocation of the town under Mayor Judith del Rosario-Cajes.

He announced his commitment and the sharing scheme to cover the cost of building the new town hall to the hundreds of Trinidadnons and visitors alike who trooped to the Lipata agro-fair area to witness the drum and lyre competition that was a highlight of the town’s 62nd founding anniversary recently.

The crowd filled the agri-fair grounds. Some even climbed up trees in the periphery to get a clear and unobstructed view of the drummers, lyrists’ and majorettes’ performance.

His announcement drew wild applause, especially that Aumentado said it was high time to build a bigger municipal hall as the town workers find no more elbow room, much more, space to look after the needs of their clients and the public that they serve.

Besides, he said, Trinidad has already completed its new market â€" an income-generating and therefore self-liquidating project, hence, the move to the next project: construction of the new town hall to replace the existing rickety one with a bullet-ridden façade that the townsfolk remember the infamous heydays of insurgency with.

President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has declared Monday a non working holiday.

The day, which she declared as a National Day of Mourning should allow everyone to keep the day as a National Day of Mourning on the burial of Iglesia Ni Cristo executive Minister Erano Manalo.

Manalo died of cardio-pulmonary arrest last August 31 at the age of 84.

Cognizant of the huge role INC leaders have done for the country, the President also ordered all flags to be flown at half mast on Monday.

The move is to signify a country-wide mourning on the interment of the INC leader.

Meanwhile, another non-working holiday is slated on September 21, Monday.

According to Presidential Spokesperson Cerge Remonde, President Arroyo also declared Sept. 21 a non-working holiday being Eid’l Fitr.

The day also coincides the last day of Muslim fasting signifying the end of Ramadan, as provided by law.

The Palace official said Eid’l Fitr is listed as one of the holidays stated in Presidential Proclamation 1869. (PIA)

by Jessica Ashley, Shine staff

On March 2, 26-year-old Hayley Jones changed her Facebook status from "married" to "single." Ten days later, the mother of four and longtime girlfriend of 31-year-old Brian Lewis, was dead.

Murdered in her UK home and found by her children, aged 3 to 10, Jones had been spending more time online as her relationship of 13 years unraveled.

"Hayley started to expand her social life and was spending a lot of time on internet sites, in particular Facebook," prosecutor Mark Evans told the court, according to the BBC.

Jones and her boyfriend referred to themselves as married, but the prosecutor argued that she had made it clear to the boyfriend that their relationship was over. Although she reportedly kept her Facebook activity private, Lewis told friends that he would not lose her to another man.

Court reports offer differing arguments about why the couple's relationship was ending. One rationale is that Lewis lost his job, placing financial strain on the family. The other is that Jones was spending too much time online.

"Lewis told police the only tension between him and Hayley was the use of the home computer," the prosecutor told the court.

Lewis allegedly stabbed Jones with a kitchen knife while she was sleeping. Lewis reportedly called police but fled before they arrived at the scene. In the interim, Lewis and Jones' children discovered their mother's body. Jones' was fatally wounded through three layers of clothing and two bags that covered her.

Lewis later turned himself into authorities but now denies that he killed his girlfriend.

While the trial continues and the life of a young mother is mourned, it is worth noting how violence within relationships seeps into all aspects of daily living. While abuse between partners often only occurs behind closed doors, it is common for work, friendships, family, church, and other parts of a victim's life to be brought in to play to attempt to justify the violence. In a 2.0 world, it was sadly only a matter of time before social network sites and status updates would be pulled in to rationalize horrific acts such as this one.

I wonder if and how we can protect people who are at risk for abuse -- or even murder -- by their partners while they are online. Although virtual friendships and support networks can greatly impact our health and well-being, I wonder if it is even possible to prevent abusers from infiltrating sites that make us feel like we are surrounded by friends.

a forwarded text...

Ang kinabuhi sama sa basurahan.
Sulod niini ang mga nagtapun-og
natong mga kagahapon, adunay
mga gum-os nga gugma,
mga latang pagmahay,
mga silopin sa kasilag, ug mga
botelya sa mga kasaypanan...
kon kini dili nimo ilabay,
mamahimo kining bara
sa imong pangandoy...

Free download of old songs. Following this link: http://lonerangerr.com/mp3s/oldies/

Just right click every link and choose "save link as". All music files are in MP3 format.

Sen. Manuel “Mar” Roxas II Thursday took exception to a cartoon story in the Philippine Daily Inquirer which referred to his fiancée, ABS-CBN broadcaster Korina Sanchez, as the future “Mrs. Palengke.”

The story dealt with Sanchez’s criticisms of Roxas’ perceived detractors, including Inquirer columnist Conrado de Quiros.

In a text message, Roxas said: “Foul naman yata ang characterization kay Korina in today’s issue. I disagree with [the] unfair portrayal of Korina and [the] out of context interpretation of her words.”

“Korina is a loving, brave, intelligent, person. I love her and stand by her,” Roxas added.

The Inquirer story appeared the other day after Roxas pulled out from the presidential race, saying he was endorsing Sen. Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III as Liberal Party standard-bearer.

The story was accompanied by a cartoon of the Inquirer mascot Guyito saying in the bubble: “Palengkera pala ang GF ni Mr. Palengke (So the girlfriend of Mr. Palengke is a fish wife).”

Political ads have portrayed Roxas as “Mr. Palengke” for his forays in wet markets to check on prices of staples.

In the story, Sanchez criticized De Quiros for supposedly describing presidential aspirants (before Roxas’ withdrawal) as “hungry for power.”

Sanchez said the columnist owed Roxas an apology “for making sweeping statements like that.”

She also took a shot at Sen. Francisco “Kiko” Pangilinan, who had called on Roxas to give way to Aquino. - Philippine Daily Inquirer

Expect the country’s best paddlers here as the 3rd Leg of the Philippine Kayak Challenge rows to the region’s eco-tourism capital this November.

The leg comprises a marathon kayak crossing from Cebu to Bohol, organizers said during the recent Provincial Tourism Council Meeting last week.

According to Val Camara, the Department of Tourism (DOT) Philippine Convention and Visitors Corporation (PCVC) brings to the Visayas the Adventure Philippines Kayaking Campaign to generate a new consciousness for the sport.

The racing event, open for single and tandem, sit in and sit-on kayak enthusiasts would take off from an area somewhere near Punta Engaño in Cebu.

Then it would take paddlers to the coasts of Cordova and then cross to Olango island in Cebu.

From there, the race shifts to a dangerous crossing to Getafe Bohol through the islets and tide flats to complete the 24-kilometer crossing distance.

Then from Getafe town, the racers take their boats to the coasts of Buenavista, Inabanga, Clarin and then for a short stop at a sandbar off Tubigon town.

Then the race continues to Calape, take the Moalong River and the out to PuntaCruz point in Maribojoc before crossing the Maribojoc Bay for the final dash to Panglao island.

“This is exactly the activity that would open up another niche market for tourism in Bohol,” asserts Camara.

He said kayak ideally fits into Bohol because the sport is supportive of the eco-cultural tourism dream here and allows coastal communities to come up with future plans to make kayak a part of their environmental tourism options.

It all started when Secretary Ace Durano personally took on a kayak and explored Wahig River in Danao town, and everything just happened, commented Gil Ocena of local kayak outfitter Bugsay and Bohol Outdoor Explorers.

BOEX coordinates for the DOT the preparations for the Bohol Cebu segment of the “paddle the country” campaign.

The secretary’s love for the sport may have been a big motivation for the country’s second look at the potential of the sport as a tourism activity here, Ocena said.

The site is ideal for the challenge as Bohol ranks first in the country’s kayaking destinations, Camara said.

More than that, race organizers said the coastal areas between Getafe to Panglao in Bohol would be hosts to amateur kayak enthusiasts as they paddle their way to Panglao in this segment of the race.

The activity boosts Bohol’s as a model for eco-tourism. (PIA)

By Sunday Post

Move over Rene Relampagos or Board Member Cesar Tomas “Yul” Lopez if ex-senator Ernesto “Boy” Herrera enters the congressional fray in the first district.

First degree cousinsâ€"Relampagos and Lopez,   were reported to have eyed the coveted position of first district congressman after the position becomes a level playing field with the termination of the term of the incumbent, Cong. Edgar Chatto.

Chatto is eyeing the governorship with the former senator’s brother lawyer Julius Ceasar Herrera his possible opponent.

While the two cousins are  banging each other’s heads as to who will run in the family representing vote-rich Loon, the pretenders were banking on the blessing of their uncle ex-Constitutional Convention delegate Natalio “Chito” Castillo, Jr. as the “third man on the ring”. According to Castillo, only one candidate  will run in the Lopez-Relampagos clan.

Contented of being touted as the kingmaker of the two protagonists, Castillo’s posture drastically changed when he learned that the elder Herrera is eyeing a comeback of the position he held for one term.

After completing his term for senator, the Calape native who earned his spurs as a labor leader, decided to run for Congress and won. That was in 1998.

With the new configuration in place as a result of Chatto’s “graduation”, Herrera appeared inclined to reconsider his retirement and make a crack for the congressional position.

This is where the Castillo  factor comes in.

Informed of Herrera’s renewed bid, Castillo said he will set aside his kingmaker role towards his nephews and challenge the Calape former senator for a one-on-one showdown.

Herrera’s political interest was practically reignited after City Mayor Dan Neri Lim of Tagbilaran cajoled him into entering the congressional derby to protect the first district turf of his brother Julius who is running for governor.

In a radio interview last Monday over Station DYTR’s Cuentas Claras, Herrera did not make any categorical confirmation of his congressional plan.

But reading between the lines, it was apparent that he can be forced to run if “push comes to shove”.

In the same interview, he intimated that there’s no way that Julius may be persuaded into accepting a draft in the first district as congressman. This doused cold water to speculations that the vice governor may be prevailed upon to run for the Congress seat vacated by Chatto.

  “It’s governor or nothing for Julius”, the elder Herrera blurted.

Told during the interview of a rare  scenario where he will be facing Relampagos who was only his political pupil during his reign as Bohol political godfather, the ex-senator said that the  situation is indeed strange.

He said if he will finally decide to run, he will try to  reach out to Relampagos if it would be possible to avert a showdown between  a "teacher and pupil".

For his part, the former governor said if this confrontation cannot be avoided, then so be it, adding that a showdown between friends is part of the essence of democracy.

The young political career of Relampagos was nurtured by Herrera when he was a two-term senator making the former a creation of the former legislator.

As for Castillo, the main reason why he will put on  his political gloves again after hanging it for good in 2004, was the possibility of a Herrera victory where he will only appear to his constituents “once in a blue moon”. The Loon opposition godfather threatened to run in 2004 against Chatto but backed out in the middle of the hustings.

The son of the former first district congressman in the 70’s noted that during Herrera’s term as congressman from 1998-2001, he was never a fixture in his congressional turf because he was holed up most of the time  in his sinecure in Manila.

Castillo said being a congressman is a full time job.

from the blog of John Silva:

On September 10, I lead a grant writing workshop for the $1 million dollar grant being offered by the Gates Foundation to libraries outside the United States. If you have computers in your library, and teach how to use them and allow free access particularly to low income students and communities, and can show an innovative way for this access to better their lives, then your library is eligible for the grant. Deadline for the grant is October 31, 2009. This is the largest single grant ever given to libraries. read more at http://johnsilva.blogspot.com/2009/08/three-grant-writing-workshops-for.html

By the Bohol Chronicle

The petition to nullify the rehabilitate-operate-transfer (ROT) contract of the Tagbilaran City Square project will finally get its day in court after months of being shelved due to the inhibition of five judges.

A summary hearing for the issuance of a temporary restraining order (TRO) has been scheduled on Friday by designated Presiding Judge Patsita Sarmiento-Gamutan at the Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 1, this city.
       
The pre-trial, which was originally set on September 25 is moved to October 9 after one of the defendants of the case, Juan Apostol, filed a motion to reset the date of the pre-trial.

It may be recalled that lawyers Victor de la Serna, Alexander Lim and Zotico Ochavillo filed a civil case in November last year for the declaration of the City Square contract as null and void with a request for the issuance of a TRO.

Tagbilaran Mayor Dan Lim and private contractors Ko Beng Sum and Apostol were named respondents of the case. Criminal and administrative complaints are also pending at the Ombudsman against the mayor for entering into the ROT agreement which, according to the complainants, is "grossly disadvantageous" to the city government.

Hearings of the civil case hit a snag after five RTC judges in the city inhibited from handling the case.

The RTC re-raffled the case five times after RTC judges Fernando Fuentes III, Baudillo Dosdos, Suceso Arcamo, Achilles Melicor and Teofilo Baluma inhibited from the case.
After almost eight months, the Regional Court Administrator in Cebu City finally designated Judge Sarmiento-Gamutan to hear the petition.

De la Serna filed a motion for immediate summary hearing last August 25, saying "the heart and soul of the case is in the issuance of a TRO".

"Without this TRO, this case can drag on for years and years, and every year that passes, the people of Tagbilaran will be suffering the injustice and financial disadvantage under the anomalous and one-sided ROT contract," De la Serna said.

The city will just get P5 million annually while the consortium is estimated to generate no less than P20 million per year.

By the Bohol Chronicle

A P7.9 million expenditure of the city government was discovered without the necessary supporting vouchers, according to State Auditor Charlita R. Leopoldo.

The Commission on Audit (COA) discovered 22 missing vouchers which should have been included in the supporting documents of the 2008 COA Report.

Leopoldo reported that the 22 missing vouchers involved the total amount of P7,946,459.74. She stated that because of the missing vouchers and other questionable entries, it has rendered the "validity of transactions and correctness of accounts doubtful."

The missing vouchers were confirmed also by Kurt Bungabong of the office of the city accountant.

In a letter signed by Rheazol Jimenez of the Office of the City Accountant, it was found out that the biggest amount without a supporting voucher was in the name of E. Butalid Store amounting to P2,846,843.70.

In the documented report, Executive Assistant Mark Monton, a known ally of the city mayor who is the acting chief of the General Services Office (GSO) has three missing vouchers under his name which totaled to P384,057.00.

The report on the missing vouchers surfaced even as the COA has ordered the city government to liquidate P20 million (P20,053,211.66) in cash advances for 2008. This still excludes the balance of P661,000.00 for the 2007 accounts.

Of the P20 million, P3.1 million was listed under the so-called "time bound cash advances." Another P1.5 million was listed as cash advances for travel which according to COA rules should be liquidated 30 days (local trips) and within 60 days (foreign trips).

The biggest portion of the unliquidated cash advances was recorded in the "intelligence/ confidential expenses" of the city mayor amounting to P7.1 million

OTHER MISSING VOUCHERS

Other listed huge expenditures with no supporting vouchers identified the payees and corresponding amount to: a certain E. b***t (with no full name) P2,247,503.00; Three M. Industrial Sales, P1,859,904.39; E Butalid Store, P225,000.00; Wyne Construction, P191,015.63; Loboc Youth Educational Association, P100,000.00

DIVERTIONARY TACTIC AGAIN - KAG. RAMA

The latest attempt to divert public attention was the argument which ensued regarding the unsigned committee report dealing with the controversial unliquidated cash advances which leaked to the media.

Kagawad Zenaido Rama said that while it is legally right to question the issue of an unsigned committee report, it diverts the issue of the P20-million unliquidated cash advances for 2008 and another P661,000 for the 2007 Audit Report.

Councilors belonging to the majority bloc are questioning the propriety of revealing the contents of the alleged committee report prepared by the Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) committee on public accountability to the media when it has not been deliberated upon by members of the said committee.

The legal counsel of the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board on Tuesday asked the complainants against TV station ABS-CBN, which is under fire in connection with host Willie Revillame's alleged unethical behavior in his show "Wowowee", to appear before the board Thursday for a possible settlement with the network's management.

Jonathan S. Presquito, MTRCB chief legal counsel, said the complainants should come to their office at President's Tower on Timog Ave. in Quezon City at 1:30 p.m. Thursday to consider the network's proposed a settlement.

Revillame, 48, filed an indefinite leave of absence from ABS-CBN as a result of the barrage of criticisms hurled against him for allegedly showing disrespect to the late President Corazon Aquino during the transfer of Cory's remains from the De La Salle gym to the Manila Cathedral which was aired live at the same time that "Wowowee" was airing.

Aside from the alleged discourtesy to Mrs. Aquino, the TV host was also condemned by concerned citizens over his alleged offensive hosting style. - Manila Bulletin

By Victoria Cochrane

The concept of large-city mayors endowed with executive powers by the voters to run a large city and also be accountable for delivering key services such as policing and transport may be old-hat in the USA, but it appears to be really catching on here in the UK.

London has been overseen by two elected mayors since the year 2000; the first-ever was former Labour stalwart Ken Livingstone, but the position is now occupied by Tory and former editor of The Spectator magazine, Boris Johnson.

Providing a definite figurehead for the city, the position of London Mayor is certainly high-profile but would a similar concept work in other large UK cities, such as Liverpool, Birmingham or Manchester? To answer that question involves an examination of why a city would choose to have such a mayor in the first place. If it is to take overall responsibility and co-ordinate all other areas of the city infrastructure and future development for the good of the entire city's residents then the voters of most cities will probably find that palatable. However, if the purpose of appointing such a figurehead is to promote only a single interest group, then success could be very limited.

Ultimately, the question of whether it is right to appoint a mayor is one that should be answered by the local community themselves, perhaps via a referendum. Some voters may like the way it has worked with the US or London models and seek to have such a position in place in their city. Appointment of such high-profile mayors to manage the public sector requirements of a city appears to work if the appointees are strong characters and natural leaders such as Livingstone and latterly, Johnson.

Of course, the mayor is always acutely aware that their tenure can be ended by the very people who voted them in. If the population of the city believes that they are not getting value from the position, then they will turn on them as was witnessed when the incredibly popular Livingstone was ejected at the last election in 2005.

However, one person cannot run an entire city without the aid of competent colleagues and the co-operation of the other government agencies involved. As well as strong leadership their agenda must be agreeable not only to the voters, but also to the service providers. It is far easier to promote change to people who are onboard with your ideas, rather than force it through. But, in some cases it is the latter that is required and that is why a strong civic leader could be the way forward for a city in need of direction.

By Norman Bordadora
Philippine Daily Inquirer

The Supreme Court has censured Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago for using “offensive and disrespectful” language directed at the Supreme Court in a privilege speech she delivered at the Senate in December 2006.

“I would rather be in another environment but not in the Supreme Court of idiots,” Santiago had said in her speech which she delivered after the Judicial and Bar Council dropped non-Supreme Court justices, including her, from being considered for the post of Chief Justice.

The high court said that Santiago violated Canon Eight and Canon 11 of the Code of Professional Responsibility which enjoins lawyers from using abusive and offensive language and from disrespecting the courts and judicial officers.

“The court wishes to express its deep concern about the language Senator Santiago, a member of the bar, used in her speech and its effects on the administration of justice,” the court said.

The Philippine Daily Inquirer

Mall magnate Henry Sy remains the richest Filipino, according to the latest list by Forbes magazine, which was posted on its website on Aug. 25.

The 84-year-old tycoon has a net worth of $3.8 billion. Forbes cited the increase in the stock price of SM Investments since December, as well as the increase in net income of the group’s interests in malls, retail, property in the first half of 2009.

Following Sy is tobacco king Lucio Tan, 75, with a net worth of $1.7 billion. Tan owns the national flag carrier Philippine Airlines and has interests in beer brewing and mining.

Jaime Zobel de Ayala, 75, chairman emeritus of Ayala Corp., one of the country’s largest conglomerates, is third with a net worth of $1.2 billion.

Andrew Tan of the Alliance Global Group, owner of the country’s McDonald’s franchise, is fourth with a net worth of $850 million.

John Gokongwei, founder of JG Summit, a conglomerate with interests in airlines, telecoms, power, banking and real estate, and owner of Robinsons department stores, is fifth with $720 million.

Tony Tan Caktiong of Jollibee Foods is sixth with $710 million, while Eduardo Cojuangco Jr., chief executive of Southeast Asia’s largest food and beverage conglomerate, San Miguel Corp., is seventh with $660 million.

Enrique Razon, chair and president of International Container Terminal Services Inc. (ICTSI), the largest corporation in the country engaged in the handling of container and bulk cargoes, is eighth with $620 million. Razon also has an interest in Monte Oro Grid Resources Inc., a leading member of a consortium which in 2007 won a 25-year franchise to operate the national grid system of National Transmission Corp.

Sen. Manuel Villar, who is eyeing the presidency in 2010, is ninth with $530 million. Villar is also the largest shareholder in property firms Vista Land & Lifescapes and Polar Property Holding.

Rounding the top 10 is Metrobank founder George Ty with $515 million.

Also making it to the top 40 are:

Emilio Yap ($510 M), Inigo and Mercedes Zobel ($440 M), Beatrice Campos ($410 M), Vivian Que Azcona ($390 M), Oscar Lopez ($350 M), Andrew Gotianun ($310 M), David Consunji ($300 M), Robert Coyiuto Jr. ($290 M), Alfonso Yuchengco ($230 M), Mariano Tan ($180 M).

Menardo Jimenez ($160 M), Gilberto M. Duavit ($159 M), Felipe Gozon ($135 M), Jon Ramon Aboitiz ($125 M), Betty Ang ($120 M), Alfredo Ramos ($115 M), Manuel Zamora Jr. ($110 M), Bienvenido R. Tantoco Sr. ($90 M), Tomas Alcantara ($75 M), Benjamin Romualdez ($70 M).

Wilfred Uytengsu Sr. ($65 M), Lourdes Montinola ($60 M), Luis Virata ($56 M), Eugenio Lopez III ($55 M), Enrique Aboitiz ($53 M), Philip Ang ($50 M), Jesus Tambunting ($45 M), Frederick Dy ($40 M), Rolando and Rosalinda Hortaleza ($39 M) and Marian Rosario Fong ($38 M).

Pamilacan Island, Cuyo, Palawan, Philippines

Sperm Whale

This one in the Philippines.

Public transportation in Pakistan

By Rory Cellan-Jones
Technology correspondent, BBC News

Millions of television viewers are now using file-sharing services to access free and unauthorised copies of programmes, research has revealed.

US drama Heroes was the most popular illegal download this year, according to research firm Big Champagne.

About 55 million people downloaded the show, while 51 million chose to access Lost, the second most popular show.

Visits to leading "torrent" sites, which index video and music files, have also nearly doubled in the last year.

The proportion of file-sharing involving films and television rather than music is continuing to rise, the research shows.

Panglao Mayor Benedicto Alcala lashed at owners of resorts who refused to voluntarily remove structures intruding the 20-meter public easement zone.

The mayor declared he will not issue business permits to these erring resort owners as the clearing of the Panglao beachfronts have suffered a setback due to a pending temporary restraining order (TRO).         

Two resort owners were able to secure a TRO at the Regional Trial Court (RTC) to stop the demolition of structures within the public access areas that was enforced by Alcala.

The mayor's tough stand to clear out the 20-meter public easement zones have been hailed by tourists and the public as this restored order and cleanliness in the beachfronts.

Even though the restraining orders were granted by the court, there are still related charges filed against Alcala by the resort owners.

According to Alcala, he will just await resolution of the case. But, he vowed that the clearing should be continued as this would be unfair to those who voluntarily complied and demolished their beachfront structures. - the bohol chronicle

By Ric V Obedencio
Bohol Chronicle

Failure to consult with the faculty staff on the planned transfer of main campus of the Central Visayas State College of Agriculture, Forestry and Technology (CVSCAFT) to Tagbilaran City from Bilar town has raised tension among the stakeholders.

The said transfer could be an offshoot of the plan to convert CVSCAFT into Bohol Island State University or BISU in a bill pending in Congress.

"There is tension inside," Avelina D. Escudero, president of CVSCAFT Bilar Faculty Association, told education committee meeting last week presided over by Board Member Ester Corazon J. Galbreath of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan.

Escudero minced no words of saying that the faculty are "feeling we have no dignity."

"Maglisud gyud mi pagsu'd ni Sir," apparently referring to Dr. Elpidio Magante, school president.

As this developed, the association passed Resolution No. 2 opposing the main campus transfer. The Resolution signed by Avelino and association secretary Manolito C. Macalolot, asked Galbreath for retention of Bilar as the main campus.

The Resolution approved during the meeting of the faculty on July 16, 2009 indicated that 45 were present out of 83 members. It said that "there was no proper information dissemination done" on the said transfer of the main campus to the city.         

The faculty cited advantages why the main campus should be retained in Bilar. They said in the Resolution that Bilar is "strategically located in the center of the island of Bohol" with a large area, suitable for "all forms of expansion" when it becomes a university.

"The exemplary performance of the Research and Development staff and faculty of the CVSCAFT Bilar main campus contributed points for the State College to be raised to level III status," aside from other important studies contributory to what is now the CVSCAFT Bilar, the Resolution said.

The Bilar campus has produced "placers in the 2006 Licensure Exam for Agriculture (No. 8 ), forestry (No. 8 ) in 2006 and 2009 and also ranked 2nd next to UPLB in overall performance, agricultural engineering (No. 5) a teacher education consistently with a passing high percentage than the national passing rate."

Meanwhile, the proposed bill, creating the BISU, is now in the final touches in Congress even allegedly without the benefit of a public hearing. "There should have been public hearing on the bill," said Board Member Aster Piollo, who is a lawyer by profession.

When the plan for BISU was hatched, the provincial board appeared being hoodwinked because it was made to believe by the CVSCAFT administration that an endorsement from the provincial government or SP "is necessary."

Education committee headed by Galbreath lamented that just because they did not give favorable endorsement in a form of an SP Resolution for BISU, the CVSCAFT administration is cooking it in the "backdoor" with the support of the three congressmen.

It will be recalled that the same situation (no official recommendation from SP) occurred when the CVSCAFT was conceptualized until it is realized.

The province stands to lose because all its real properties, including the multi-million-peso property in the former BSAT, appeared to be sequestered without the benefit of consultation with provincial government.

Until now, some properties are not yet transferred to the name of the CVSCAFT after the approval of the law or RA No. 8659, creating the CVSCAFT, and signed by then President Fidel Ramos because if the province does it might as well lose or diminish its status as first class province. (RVO)

Model: Miru Kim - Artist, Photographer

Model: Miru Kim - Photographer, Artist