MikeLigalig.com

Miru Kim

A British couple today told how they were robbed, stabbed and poisoned as their dream holiday on a paradise isle turned into a nightmare.

Paul Sparrow, 58, and partner Valerie Roberts, 46, were set upon by a ruthless knife-wielding gang as they sat on rocks on a beach on the Caribbean island of Margarita off Venezuela.

Mr Sparrow had a noose put around his neck and knife held against his throat.

When he struggled with one of the three attackers he was repeatedly stabbed in the back and hit over the head with a rock. - dailymail.co.uk

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EMqX-9a73T8

Time Lapse: Hiroshima, Japan

An 18-year-old Tampa man apparently really, really needed a ride to Tampa on Tuesday night.

So at about 10 p.m., Monte Hinton picked up the receiver of a pay phone on Adamo Drive. Call a cab? Nah... better call 911.

Oops.

Hinton might have rethought his emergency dial because he hung up when a dispatcher answered. Too late. Sheriff's deputies were on their way.

When they found Hinton, they gave him a ride all right -- to jail.

Hinton was arrested on a charge of making a false 911 call, a misdemeanor, and jailed in lieu of $500 bail. -- Kim Wilmath, Times Staff Writer - Source

RELATIVES of a dead man in Spain asked a doctor to confirm his death a second time because his body showed no signs of going pale hours after he passed away.

The 70-year-old died of a heart attack and his body was on display at a funeral home in Lorca, a city of some 90,000 people in southern Spain, when his family noticed that it still had a healthy pink glow, a spokesman for the funeral home said.

They then called in the doctor to confirm that their loved one was in fact dead.

The doctor concluded that the man still had a healthy glow, despite having passed away, because the pacemaker he was wearing was still running. - Source

Godfrey, Ill (AP)  -- A southwestern Illinois school bus driver has been suspended after a kindergartner, who wrongly got on her bus, was dropped off more than five miles from his home.

Five-year-old Jordan Nance of Godfrey was reunited with his mother within an hour Friday after a concerned parent called a telephone number on the North Elementary School student's identification tag.

Chris Norman is the Alton School District's financial services chief, and he says the driver has been suspended.

Norman says the bus driver was supposed to check the boy's tag when he got on and off the bus to make sure he was supposed to be riding it and was being left at the right spot.

The boy's mother says her son no longer wants to ride the bus. - Source

Somali Navy Chief

By Will Ross
BBC News, Nairobi

If you think you face an uphill challenge at work today, spare a thought for Farah Ahmed Omar, the man in charge of Somalia's navy.

He has neither boats nor equipment and admits he has not been to sea for 23 years.

The interim government does not control much of the 3,000-km (1,860-mile) Somali coastline and then there is the headache of plentiful pirates.

Mr Omar said he was first put in charge of the navy in 1982, but speaking to the BBC by phone from the capital, Mogadishu, he did not sound too daunted by the task ahead.

"Today there is a big piracy problem and we are ashamed. But we think they [the pirates] don't have sophisticated equipment as they just have fishing boats and small arms which are easy to get in Somalia," he said. - bbc news

A Southern California man will stand trial in the rapes of four women, including one alleged victim who authorities say bit off the tongue of her attacker.

The Riverside County District Attorney's Office said Monday that a judge in Murrieta ordered Ronald Douglas McGowan, 32, to trial after a preliminary hearing on 12 felony counts, including rape, forcible rape, assault with a deadly weapon and assault causing serious bodily injury.

Prosecutors say one of the victims bit off part of McGowan's tongue in self-defense during a June 5 rape at her apartment. McGowan, of West Covina, was arrested at an emergency room where he went for treatment. His tongue could not be reattached. - Source

CLERMONT - Bart Sutherin gets big points for trying to make his son's first day of school at East Ridge High a memorable one.

But it probably wasn't a good idea to rent a helicopter and then drop off the boy without first warning the Lake County school district and Sheriff's Office.

Sutherin freaked out school officials when he landed the blue-and-white Hughes 300 helicopter about 7 a.m. Monday behind some portable classrooms on the east side of the campus, according a Lake Sheriff's Office report.

A deputy assigned to work at the high school called the Federal Aviation Administration, which launched an investigation.

Although the FAA still is looking into the matter, an official said Sutherin likely isn't in trouble because he landed the aircraft safely and "in accordance with the Federal Aviation Regulations." - Source

A devoted father who discovered that two of his three children had been fathered by another man is suing his ex-wife for compensation.

The millionaire businessman is demanding unlimited damages of more than £300,000 from his ex-wife and her new husband, including the cost of bringing up the two children he believed were his for more than a decade.

The man, who was the woman’s first husband, raised the two children as his own â€" with no clue that they had been fathered by his wife’s lover.

He accuses the pair of fraudulent misrepresentation and deceit, and says he has not been allowed to see the two children since 2006. - business.timesonline.co.uk

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rVsdOuVoJg0

Philip Yancey Talks About God's Love

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D73xjV2-14g

Christian writer Philip Yancey tackles on the subject "Prayer" in his book "Prayer"

Markings on a 16th Century carving from Stirling Castle could be the oldest surviving piece of written Scottish instrumental music, historians believe.

A sequence of 0s, Is and IIs have been found on one of the Stirling Heads - wooden medallions which would have decorated the castle's royal palace.

It is believed the music could have been played on instruments such as harps, viols, fiddles and lutes.

An experienced harpist has been trying to play the tune.

The markings would not have been an exact musical score, but would have given guidance to players who then improvised.

There are earlier examples of written music in Scotland, but they were composed for choirs rather than an instrumental band. - bbc news

American songwriter Ellie Greenwich, who penned River Deep, Mountain High and other hits, has died, aged 68.

She died of a heart attack after being admitted to a New York hospital for pneumonia treatment, her niece said.

In a 50-year career, she was awarded some 25 gold and platinum discs. She collaborated with Phil Spector on Chapel of Love and Da Doo Ron Ron.

She wrote Leader of the Pack with her ex-husband, which became the basis for a Broadway musical based on her life.

Greenwich was a member of the Songwriters Hall of Fame and contributed to the success of many stars, including working with Frank Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald.

She is also co-produced songs for Neil Diamond, including his hit Kentucky Woman.

Other compositions included Do Wah Diddy Diddy and Look of Love. - bbc news

Remember that great love and great achievements involve great risk.

When someone asks you a question you don't want to answer, smile and ask, 'Why do you want to know?'

Talk slowly but think quickly.

Don't judge people by their relatives.

Love deeply and passionately. You might get hurt but it's the only way to live life completely.

Never laugh at anyone's dream. People who don't have dreams don't have much.

Why?

When you say, 'I'm sorry,' look the person in the eye.

When you say, 'I love you ,' mean it.

Don't believe all you hear, spend all you have or sleep all you want.

Marry a man/woman you love to talk to. As you get older, their conversational skills will be as important as any other.

Thought of the Day:

Give people more than they expect and do it cheerfully.

a forwarded email...

Dengue Fever Remedy

I would like to share this interesting discovery from a classmate's son who has just recovered from dengue fever. Apparently, his son was in the critical stage at the ICU when his blood platelet count drops to 15 after 15 liters of blood transfusion.

His father was so worried that he seeks another friend's recommendation and his son was saved. He confessed to me that he gave his son raw juice of the papaya leaves. From a platelet count of 45 after 20 liters of blood transfusion, and after drinking the raw papaya leaf juice, his platelet count jumps instantly to 135. Even the doctors and nurses were surprised. After the second day he was discharged. So he asked me to pass this good news around.

Accordingly it is raw papaya leaves, 2pcs just cleaned and pound and squeeze with filter cloth. You will only get one tablespoon per leaf. So two tablespoon per serving once a day. Do not boil or cook or rinse with hot water, it will loose its strength. Only the leafy part and no stem or sap. It is very bitter and you have to swallow it like "Won Low Kat". But it works.

*Papaya Juice - Cure for Dengue*

You may have heard this elsewhere but if not I am glad to inform you that papaya juice is a natural cure for dengue fever. As dengue fever is rampant now, I think it's good to share this with all.

A friend of mine had dengue last year. It was a very serious situation for her as her platelet count had dropped to 28,000 after 3 days in hospital and water has started to fill up her lung. She had difficulty in breathing. She was only 32-year old. Doctor says there's no cure for dengue. We just have to wait for her body immune system to build up resistance against dengue and fight its own battle. She already had 2 blood transfusion and all of us were praying very hard as her platelet continued to drop since the first day she was admitted.

Fortunately her mother-in-law heard that papaya juice would help to reduce the fever and got some papaya leaves, pounded them and squeeze the juice out for her. The next day, her platelet count started to increase, her fever subside. We continued to feed her with papaya juice and she recovered after 3 days!!!

Amazing but it's true. It's believed one's body would be overheated when one is down with dengue and that also caused the patient to have fever papaya juice has cooling effect. Thus, it helps to reduce the level of heat in one's body, thus the fever will go away. I found that it's also good when one is having sore throat or suffering from heat.

Please spread the news about this as lately there are many dengue cases. It's great if such natural cure could help to ease the sufferings of dengue patients.

Furthermore it's so easily available.
Blend them and squeeze the juice! It's simple and miraculously effective!!

Japanese Peso During Japan's Occupation in the Philippines

source: lightofjesus.net

By the Philippine Daily Inquirer

He has yet to feel the power of Manny Pacquiao, but Paulie Malignaggi is convinced the Filipino superstar can’t measure up against Puerto Rican icon Miguel Cotto when they tangle on November 14 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

Malignaggi went as far as predicting that Cotto, who beat him by unanimous decision three years ago, would knock Pacquiao out and retain his World Boxing Organization welterweight crown.

In an interview with Rick Reeno of BoxingScene.com, Malignaggi paid tribute to Cotto’s strength by saying that he “hits like a beast.”

This despite Cotto’s inability to put him down when they tangled on June 10, 2006 at the Madison Square Garden in New York.

According to Malignaggi, the Puerto Rican (34-1 with 27 KOs) is simply “too big and too strong” for Pacquiao, the pound-for-pound king, who is a 2-1 favorite in early betting odds.

Unconvinced of Pacquiao’s punching power, Malignaggi even suggested that South African Joshua Clottey, who was narrowly beaten by Cotto last June 13, could also knock Pacquiao out.

Of course, Cotto is also convinced that Pacquiao doesn’t have the physical attributes to topple him even at the catch weight of 145 pounds.

In an interview with Puerto Rican newspaper Primera Hora on Friday, Cotto said his only concern about Pacquiao was his speed although he noted that he could neutralize it with a “good defense.”

Cotto, who started his preparations for the megabuck pay-per-view bout on August 3 in his hometown in Caguas, Puerto Rico, added that Pacquiao must look elsewhere if he wants an unprecedented seventh world title at 147 pounds.

When I teach writing, I explain that it’s generally better to use short words or phrases first in a series, as in “arts and letters” and “life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.” Early in my career, I explained to authors that it just sounds better this way, but then I discovered a “rule” about this. And I learned that authors are more likely to accept editorial changes when I can point them to a rule than when I just say, “Trust me.”

This is typical of human nature. We have a love/hate relationship with rules. We don’t like rules, but we’re unsure how to determine right from wrong without them.

God had a relationship with Adam and Eve that was based on loving trust. The only rule necessary was one that protected them from knowledge that would end in death. But when disobedience broke the trusting relationship, God added more rules to protect the wayward couple and their offspring.

In Christ, God proclaimed once more that the good life He wants for us is not about rules but a relationship. As Paul wrote, all the commandments can be summarized in one word: love. Because we are “in Christ,” we can enjoy peace with God and othersâ€"not because there’s a rule, but because there is love.  â€" Julie Ackerman Link, Our Daily Bread

By the Philippine Daily Inquirer

Unfaithful spouses in France beware: Passionate text messages sent to mistresses and lovers can now be used as evidence against you in a divorce.

Experts say the recent ruling by France’s Supreme Court to accept phone exchanges as legitimate proof of adultery will make it easier for the French to get divorced.

Previously, French husbands and wives often had to wait for years to escape a marriage if they could not prove that their spouse was misbehaving or mistreating them.

The June ruling by the country’s highest court went largely unnoticed until it was reported by the French media last week.

Text messages have long been accepted as official proof in murder and other criminal trials in France, and the new decision extends such practice into family law. E-mails are also accepted as evidence in trials.

Getting a divorce can be a lengthy and painful procedure in France. If the spouses fail to agree to separate by mutual consent, those filing for divorce must prove that the spouse was cheating or abusing or mistreating them.

If the judge is not convinced, a divorce will be pronounced only after two years of living separately. Up until 2004, French law required couples to wait as long as six years.

Over 273,000 marriages and nearly 135,00 divorces were registered in France in 2007, according to government dataâ€"meaning that half of all marriages was likely to end in divorce.

By Alex Villanueva Jr.

Evangeline Acero-Stanners, a Filipina mother of two New Zealand-born children, is fighting for her life, and fighting to keep her family together.

In a national television showed here today, Evangeline, who has Kiwi husband and two Kiwi kids, Joshua and Isabelle, has been told by Immigration New Zealand to leave when her work permit expires in January, despite having been been married to a New Zealander.

Evangeline has kidney disease and because of that she has been declined residency.

In a news report published by New Zealand Herald, Immigration authorities told Mrs. Stanners, 35, that she will not be granted residency, which she applied for in June last year, because she was diagnosed with having advanced kidney disease during her second pregnancy last year.

"If I have to leave my children, I know it might be the last time that I will see them, ever. As a mother, my fight to stay alive is so that I can be here for them," she said.

"Immigration is tearing our family apart. If I have to go back to the Philippines, I am surely going to die - I'd rather die with my family beside me."

In a letter to Immigration NZ, nephrologist Kelvin Lynn said Mrs Stanners had only 15 per cent of her overall kidney function, and would need either a transplant or dialysis.

Mrs Stanners says the doctor said she can no longer carry her baby, because it would cause too much of a strain on her kidney.

"Each time I look at them, I cry -- saying to them, don't worry, mommy will fight to stay and she'll be here for you," she said.

A New Zealand citizen or resident can sponsor a spouse or partner for residency, but it would be subject to meeting health requirements.

Immigration told Mrs Stanners: "The medical assessor has advised that you do not meet the acceptable standard of health ... on the basis that you are likely to impose significant costs or demands on New Zealand's health services."

Husband Richard Stanners said dialysis treatment would cost about 65,000 New Zealand dollar a year, and sending Mrs Stanners to the Philippines would "be as good as signing her death warrant".

Mr Stanners, 55, a Christchurch-based mortgage consultant, said his wife developed a minor kidney problem when she was pregnant with their first child, Josh, but her condition deteriorated significantly when she became pregnant the second time.

He said they could not afford to pay for the treatment his wife needed if she was sent back, and was pleading for the Government to let her stay.

MP Jim Anderton wrote to Associate Immigration Minister Kate Wilkinson requesting a medical waiver.

Ms Wilkinson said she would look into the matter but "could not guarantee a favourable outcome".

As of press time, the national television also stated that Evangeline’s case became the responsibility of Kate, who is the only person who can grant a waiver on humanitaran grounds.

Richard and Evangeline have written directly to Kate Wilkinson, asking that she be granted residency, and for a medical waiver.

Evangeline says she is praying that she will be granted this waiver, for the sake of her kids and her family.

The couple met on the internet in April 2006 and married in the Philippines in November that year.

Mrs Stanners was granted a 12-month visitor's visa when they moved to NZ the following April, and was later granted two work permits. The second expires on January 10. (PNA)
DCT/AVJR/utb

Sometimes we are overwhelmed by life. The crushing waves of disappointment, endless debt, debilitating illness, or trouble with people can cause hopelessness, depression, or despair. It happened to Jesus’ disciples. And it has happened to me.

Three statements by the Lord beginning with the words “It is . . .” offer us comfort, reassurance, and hope that Jesus is enough. The first is in Matthew 4 and is repeated three times: “It is written” (vv.4,7,10). In responding to the three temptations of Satan, Jesus gave us proof enough that the Word of God is true and overcomes the most powerful forms of temptation and pressure.

The second statement, “It is I” (Matt. 14:27), was spoken when Jesus told His terrified disciples that He Himself was presence enough to stop the howling storm and calm the raging seas.

Jesus spoke the third “It is” from the cross: “It is finished!” (John 19:30). He assured us that His death was provision enough to pay the debt for our sins and set us free.

Whatever our circumstances, Jesus is present with His love, compassion, and grace. He is proof, presence, and provision enough to carry us safely through.  â€" David C. Egner, Our Daily Bread

Served by Cebu Pacific Air only

Manila-Cauayan
Cebu-Clark
Cebu-Dumaguete
Cebu-Roxas
Cebu-Puerto Princesa
Cebu-Surigao
Cebu-Cotabato
Cebu-Legazpi
Cebu-Siargao
Davao-Iloilo
Davao-Cagayan de Oro

The Philippine women's boxing team will start taking every international exposure more seriously following its event's inclusion to the 2012 London Olympics calendar.

In fact, the Amateur Boxing Association of the Philippines will be sending six of their toughest fighters to the Asian Indoor Games on Oct. 30 to Nov. 8 in Hanoi, Vietnam.
         

Veterans Mitchell Martinez, Alice Kate Aparri and Annie Albania headline the squad composed of Josie Gabuco, Annalisa Cruz and Nesthy Petecio.

Except for Petecio, an upcoming neophyte, all RP team members are world championships medalists.

Albania, the lone gold winner in the 2007 Thailand Southeast Asian Games, boasts a 52 kgs silver medal in the 2008 Ningbo edition, while Gabuco and Cruz bagged bronze in the same meet.

Martinez, for her part, snatched two bronze medals in the 60kgs class of the 2005 Podolsk and 2006 New Delhi editions, while Aparri won the 48kgs bronze in 2006. - the Bohol Chronicle

Five Philippine boxers will be leaving from Havana heading straight to the World Boxing Championship in Milan this Friday.

The rest of the team will return to Manila for further training in preparation for the Laos Southeast Asian Games in December.

Amateur Boxing Association of the Philippines executive director Ed Picson, said another trip is under negotiation with the Philippine Sports Commission to include women boxers for China.

Bandrolled by PSC chairman Harry Angping and PLDT-Smart top honcho Manny V. Pangilinan, also the ABAP head, the national boxers, supervised by head coach Pat Gaspi and Cuban consultants Enrique Steyners and Dagoberto Scott, have gone toe-to-toe with top-rate Cuban and Venezuelan fighters right after they arrived.         

Leaving Manila in two batches via Singapore and Paris last Aug. 7, the Filipinos, flew in after more than 36 hours in transit, and had a Sunday off spent hearing mass at the old Virgen de la Merced Church in Havana Vieja and a having sumptuous Cuban lunch at Cojimar District, where the famous writer Ernest Hemingway was said to have spent many days enjoying the nearby beach.

The following day, Olympian Harry Tanamor, Joan Tipon, Genebest Basadre, Joegin Ladon, Charly Suarez, Rey Saludar, Aston Palicte, Jameboy Vicera and Gerson Nietes buckled down to work at the Bolleros gym, a rundown district with no electricity, poor ventilation and dilapidated facilities.

The Cuban national team trains there daily under the watchful eyes of their experienced coaches, led by acting head coach Honorato Espinosa, who was once worked with North Cotabato Vice Gov. Manny Pinol on his boxing program.

Raul Fernandez Liranza, another Cuban coach who spent time with the RP team, also welcomed the national boxers on their arrival. Liranza holds class at the University of Sports and has also returned to be part of the Cuban coaching staff, Picson said. - the Bohol Chronicle

The Bohol School Amateur Athletic Association (BSAAA), the only basketball competition in the province, which, genuine mission and vision is geared towards the development of the youth and sports, has designated a new commissioner.

Paul Yabo Calizar, a former mainstay of the Bohol Institute of Technology
International College Super cruisers and a Most Valuable Player during his prime, has been designated as the new BSAAA boss for this year.

The former "iron man" of Bohol basketball was born on November 29, 1970 in Dapitan, Zamboanga del Norte from parents Porferio Calizar and Dominga Yabo. But he was raised in Pook (Sta. Cruz), Baclayon as his parents migrated there sometime in 1977.

He dribbled his way to earn a college degree in Computer Science as a member of the starting five of the BIT IC Super cruisers who were then competing in a prestigious Cebu Amateur Athletic Association (CAAA).         

As a player, aside from having talents, skills and abilities a Most Valuable Player, he likewise possessed the traits and qualities of a disciplined player. His former teammates and coaches were one in praising him for his positive attitude towards the game.

He married Hazel Bertumen, in 1996 with whom he had 2 kids, Pia Vanessa, 12 and Vergillisa, 10. Paul does small business for a living while Hazel is an Oveseas Filipino Worker.

As the newly designated commissioner of the BSAAA, he promises to impose a strict discipline among all the players and the team officials alike. I'm more incline in introducing new approach towards dealing with the effective system of the association, commissioner Calizar added.

Now on its 15th season, the BSAAA is getting stronger through the years because of the financial support of the sports minded and kindhearted individuals and organizations. - the Bohol Chronicle

Boholano boxing champ Nonito Donaire Jr. is eyeing Mexican champion Fernando Montiel to be his next foe.

Doanire cited yesterday, "We have unfinished business to settle," during the press conference hosted by GMA Network as a tribute to the boxer who made the country proud by winning over Panamanian Rafael "El Torito" Concepcion last Sunday.

Montiel is a former World Boxing Organization super flyweight champion and is the current WBO Interim bantamweight king. He is slated to fight Jerome Arnould in Mexico on Sept. 12 for the WBO bantamweight title.

Realizing his dream fight with Montiel may happen next year since his promoter Bob Arum of Top Rank promotion is lining up Jorge Arce ashis possible next opponent in December.

"Arce and Montiel are two top Mexican fighters and I really want to face the best fighters to text may God-given ability," said the 26-year-old boxer who is slated to join the GMA television reality show Celebrity Duets. - the Bohol Chronicle

The Department of Trade and Industry and Department of Agriculture jointly issued the Administrative Order No. 2, series of 2008 otherwise known as the rules and regulations of the grant of special discounts to Persons with Disability (PWD) on the purchase of basic necessities and prime commodities.

"Since the enactment of Republic Act No. 9442 on April 2007, PWDs have prayed that this Magna Carta for Disabled Persons will be fully implemented.

"While the grant of special discounts on basic and prime commodities is just among the benefits granted to PWDs, they nevertheless congratulate the DA and DTI for the concrete and laudable response to section 32 of R.A. 9442."

Under the said rules and regulations, every person with disability shall enjoy a special discount of five percent of the regular retail price of basic necessities and prime commodities exclusively listed in the order. However, the total amount of said purchase shall not exceed the amount of P1,300 per calendar week without carry over of the unused amount.        

To avail of the discount, a PWD must present his or her ID issued by NCDA or by authorized office of Local Government Units where he or she resides. A purchase booklet shall be presented by the PWD to the retailer everytime a purchase is made.

Under the administrative order, retailers covered are those persons engaged in the business of selling consumer products directly to consumers, which shall include among others, supermarkets, grocery stores, convenience and mini-convenience stores and shops, excluding sari-sari stores with a capitalization of less than P100,000 public or private wet markets, talipapa and cooperative stores.

Furthermore, LGUs shall procure and distribute the purchase booklets to the persons with disability residing within their respective territorial jurisdiction.

Just like in the elderly sector, retailers shall provide a special express lane for persons with disability. Priority shall always be given to them in case there is no express lane.

Penal and administrative sanctions provided under R.A. 9442 shall be imposed against business establishments which violate this administrative order.

The Trade and Industry Regulatory Division of DTI-Bohol in coordination with the LGUs and PWD groups are currently conducting information dissemination as to the implementation of the law. - the Bohol Chronicle

Alturas Appliance Winners
By ARIEL E. FULLIDO

Eight lucky customers win fabulous appliances during the 3-Day Sale of Alturas Supermarket last August 11, 12 and 13. The raffle draw was conducted last August 17, at the store lobby, under the supervision of a DTI representative, Mrs. Marylou Torreon.         

The Alturas Consumer Welfare Desk bares the eight lucky winners as follows: Rowena Olaer, Pagsa, Dimiao, Bohol (Samsung TV 25"); Henry Yu, Calceta St., Tagb. City, Calceta St., Tagb. City (TCL TV 25"); Shiela Marie A. Bunani, San Isidro, Dauis, Bohol (La Germania Gas Range); Rita M. Salomon, Ubujan Dist., Tagb. City (Hyundai TV 21"); Eden Olango, Mariveles, Dauis, Bohol (Nikon Tower Fan); Darlita Barajon, Dampas Dist., Tagb. City (Camel Gas Stove); Razoz, M. Bagaipo, Abucayan Norte, Calape, Bohol (Camel Gas Stove); and Rita Bongo, Tawala, Panglao, Bohol (Kyowa Blender).

Meanwhile, another appliance bonanza promo is going on at the Home & Fashion Department of Alturas Supermarket, Plaza Marcela Discount Store, and Island City Mall.

The "Appliance Sulit Deals" offers discounts of up to 50%, plus other free items are given away for every purchase on selected appliances, from August 15 to September 30.

The Denim Sale is also going on at the Home & Fashion Department of Alturas Supermarket, Plaza Marcela Discount Store and Island City Mall, where big discounts are given away on great denim selections.

The First Consolidated Bank installed this week Electronic Fund Transfer/Point-of-Sale (EFT/POS) terminals at Shoppers Mart, allowing FCB depositors to pay for their purchases at Shoppers using their PITAKArd.

FCB Vice president Joseph Lacea said the installation of EFT/POS terminals at Shoppers is the start of the bank's plan to install EFT/POS terminals in various merchants and companies in Bohol.

After Shoppers, FCB will install EFT/POS terminals in Island City Mall, Marcela Plaza, Alturas Supermarkets in Tagbilaran, Alturas Supermarket in Talibon, and other merchants and companies in Bohol, Lacea said.         

For the more than 10,000 FCB PITAKArd holders in Bohol, this means safety and convenience in withdrawing cash at FCB ATM, purchasing goods and services, and paying bills at utility companies.

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

FCB has ATMs in 22 location in Bohol and aims to install about 400 EFT/POS terminals in various parts of the province.

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

At about the same time the members of the Powerade-Team Pilipinas led by coach Yeng Guiao were sweating it out in their games in the 25th FIBA Asia World Championship in Tianjin, China, our country's young mathematicians faced their counterparts from China, Hongkong, Macau, Singapore and Taiwan for the 2009 China Junior High School Math Olympiad held on August 5 to 9, and the 2009 China Primary Math Olympiad for elementary pupils last August 9 to 13.

Of the country's 46 student-participants in the primary level from among the 37 Mathematics Trainers' Guild (MTG) centers in Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao, two (2) are Boholanas: twelve-year old AJ Wincielou Johanna "Cielo" Araoarao Gabin and 10-year-old Eloisa Jean "Jean" Sarmiento Remoreras. Both are products of the MTG - Bohol Center under Dr. Jose Caberte and Omar Remendado. Like the other qualifiers and alternates from the other MTG centers in the country, the two young Boholanas have been selected based on their consistent impressive performance during the training programs.

Upon arrival, Cielo and Jean were fascinated with the system at the Beijing Capital Airport. Together they admired and appreciated the blend of the eastern and western cultural influences evident in the city's edifices. The two had been roommates in the boarding house in Marikina City when they attended the April 15 to May 15, 2009 intensive math training from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm at the DEECO Technological Institute in Pasig City, together with Silliman University's Anchelle Grace Ho and Katrina Alexandra Renacia, who fortunately, also qualified for the international competition.

Gabin, a Grade 6 pupil of Holy Spirit School (HSS) when she first joined the MTG training program sessions last school year and now a first year HS student of Tagbilaran City Science High School (TCSHS), is the only child of Engr. Jerome John, Senior Trade and Industry Development Specialist of the Department of Trade and Industry - Bohol and Fiel Angeli, City Information Officer of the City Government of Tagbilaran. Remoreras, on the other hand, currently a Grade 5 pupil of the Victoriano D. Tirol - Advanced Learning Center (VDT-ALC), is the eldest child of Engr. Emerito, a civil engineer working in a firm in Dubai, United Arab Emirates and Josefina, a University of Bohol - College of nursing clinical instructor, who was also with the Philippine delegation.

While in China, they had the chance to visit Beijing's new "wonders" - the world-famous Bird's Nest, the National Stadium for the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games designed by Herzog and de Meuron and "The Egg," the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA), literally, the National Grand Theatre, designed by French architect Paul Andreu. Of course, Beijing tour would not be complete without the visit to the Tiananmen Square ("Gate of Heavenly Peace") initially constructed during the Ming Dynasty in 1368 A.D.- 1644 A.D. But, even with the presence of the other magnificent sites, the Great Wall of China ("Wan-Li Qang-Qeng" or "Chángchéng," literally "long city or fortress") remains to be the top tourist destination. Built over 2,000 years ago by Qin Shi Huangdi, the first emperor of China during the Qin (Ch'in) Dynasty in 221 B.C - 206 B.C., popular beliefs ranging from "Ripley's Believe It or Not!'s" cartoons from 1930s, claimed that the Great Wall is "the mightiest work of man, the only one that would be visible to the human eye from the moon."         

In terms of urban population, Tianjin (Chinese: ??; pinyin: Tianjin; postal map spelling: Tientsin), is the sixth largest city of the People's Republic of China. In urban land area, it is ranked the fifth largest in China, after Beijing,Shanghai, Guangzhou and Shenzhen. By administration, it is one of the four established municipalities (1927) that have provincial-level status, reporting directly to the central government.

August 11 was marked as the most crucial day - examination day. The participants hurdled the individual contests, soduko and group relay contests which challenged their mathematical ability and enhanced their giftedness. Thanks to coaches Man Fai Anthony Ang, MTG public information officer; Dr. Archie Rodriguez and Lowela Mupas who conditioned the participants to prepare for all those grueling exercises.

Finally, August 12 was the day of reckoning. The 46 Filipino young mathematicians, together with their coaches, parents and other traveling companions, gathered at the Tianjin Yaohua Binhai School auditorium. After, the announcements were made, everyone in the Philippine delegation rejoiced for the 6 second place winners and 40 third place winners. Cielo and Jean also had their share of the third place honors in their respective individual categories. Months of laborious efforts and intensive training in math reaped good harvest afterall, as the country collected a total of 89 medals.

According to Dr. Simon Chua, MTG president, its student-trainees have won over 1,300 medals in various foreign math contests for the past 14 years. This November, MTG-Philippines will host the 2009 International Math Competition in Iloilo City. Senator Alan Peter Cayatano is the honorary chair of MTG. - the Bohol Chronicle

Details of the incident:

By Chito A. Fuentes
Philippine Daily Inquirer

Former Panglao Mayor Doloreich Dumaluan was shot at the back of his left shoulder on Tuesday afternoon.

The Panglao police declined to give any details as of Tuesday evening, saying the investigative team had not returned from the crime scene.

Local radio Station dyTR reported that the former mayor was shot during an altercation near the Dumaluan Beach Resort, which was owned by the mayor’s family, at 2:30 p.m. Tuesday.

Dumaluan’s bodyguards returned fire hitting the suspected gunman identified as Teodulfo Macalandag who was hit in the right hand, according to the radio report.

Both were rushed to the Gov. Celestino Gallares Memorial Hospital in Tagbilaran City for treatment.

However, Dumaluan was transferred to a hospital in Cebu later in the afternoon.

Ideas and possibilities flowed during Gov. Erico Aumentado's recent eco-tourism benchmarking trip to Hawaii.

The trip with businessman Norris Oculam, immediate past president of the Bohol Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) and First Lady Peregrina Aumentado brought them to the beach row of the renowned Waikiki Beach and gave them the opportunity to tour tourist interests including the ultramodern Polynesian Cultural Center.

The governor emphasized that his trip was sponsored, so that like his previous foreign travels, the provincial government did not spend a single centavo for the same.

In Hawaii, Aumentado met with a top and trend-setting architect whose firm has so far done at least 235 projects in six continents. He counts Boracay in the Philippines, Africa and even conservative Italy among his clients.

His advocacy is to blend - and not to clash with the environment, and weave in - not contrast with or stand out from the surroundings liike a sore thumb. His works include the extraordinary: an undersea room with glass walls and ceiling that offers the occupants a full panoramic view of the world underneath the sea, with sea creatures for company on a 24-hour basis.
         

The exposure brought forth a gush of ideas and the concept of a tourist township - not just a stand-alone hotel or resort - for Aumentado who, as head of the Panglao Island Tourism Development Task Force, may introduce and implement it in the future aeropolis of the Panglao Bohol International Airport Development Project, and elsewhere in the province.

The trip also gave the governor the opportunity to meet with Dr. Bradley Wong who is heading a medical mission to Bohol in November this year, and the key officials of the Aloha Medical Mission (AMM) including its president, Antonio Tan and past president Ramon Sy.

AMM is an organization of volunteers whose passion is to conduct life-changing operations and services to the medically underserved in the Philippines, Southeast Asia and the Pacific. It was founded in 1983 by members of the Philippine Medical Association of Hawaii to provide free and voluntary medical, surgical, and other health-related services, supplies, and equipment to medically indigent areas.

Aside from the Philippines and Hawaii where they have set up the AMM Clinic, the volunteers have conducted missions in Bangladesh, Cambodia, China, East Timor, Indonesia, Laos, Micronesia, Myanmar, Nepal, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Marshall Islands and Vanuatu. - the Bohol Chronicle

A former barangay captain tagged in the killing of an employee of the Land Transportation Office (LTO) last June 5 is charged with homicide by the City Prosecutor's Office.

However, the suspect, former Dampas barangay captain Godofredo Ingles, is set to challenge the resolution of the City Prosecutor on the grounds of "uncorroborated testimonies" of the two witnesses who accused him as responsible in the killing of LTO traffic enforcer Apolinario Reyes.

In a resolution dated August 9, 2009, City Prosecutor Conrado Supremo stated that there is a probable cause to charge Ingles for the crime of homicide.

Between 7 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. last June 5, Reyes, 42, a resident of Sta. Catalina, Sagbayan town was shot dead in front of the LTO-Tagbilaran office.

Two lady witnesses, also employees of LTO, pinpointed to Ingles as the alleged gunman. The two witnesses were inside the LTO office at the time of the shooting.         

One witness said she heard the loud voice of Ingles saying, "Trouble, if you want trouble" immediately prior to the gun burst and saw the suspect holding a gun pointed at the victim who fell to the ground.

The second witness said she saw Ingles and heard him say that he had an altercation with Reyes and that he "was prompted to do it".

The suspect also presented five witnesses, whom he had a drinking spree prior to the shooting incident, to disprove the accusations of the two lady witnesses.

All five witnesses supported the respondent's denial that he was the gunman with the assertion that Ingles was with them drinking beer until the time they heard what sounded to be a gunshot.

They also claimed that it was impossible for anyone at the LTO office to see the trigger man and the victim due to the obstruction of a passenger bus parked in front of the office.

Moreover, another witness, who also submitted a sworn statement to the city prosecutor, said that he saw the gunman, but could not identify him as it was dark, and that he was sure that it was not Ingles having known the latter for a long time.

According to City Prosecutor Supremo, even assuming that it was impossible for anyone to see the triggerman and the victim at the time of the incident, the testimony of the two lady witnesses would "suffice to make circumstantial evidence and or establish probable cause".

"A finding of probable cause merely binds over the subject to stand trial, it does not impose a guilty verdict."

The city prosecutor recommended a bail bond of P40,000 for the respondent. - the Bohol Chronicle

The Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) will pursue its consultations regarding the holding of the triennial global grand homecoming of Boholanos from all over the world, popularly known as Tigum Bol-anon sa Tibuok Kalibutan (TBTK).

However, instead of calling it an official inquiry into alleged irregularities in the management of TBTK activities, Vice Gov. Julius Caesar Herrera clarified the move is aimed to make improvements in the next homeoming festivities.

The SP joint committee formed specifically to conduct the consultations convened for the first time last Tuesday.

The joint committee is composed of the SP committees on Appropriation, Tourism, Culture and Arts and Women/Family Welfare which is co-chaired by Herrera, Board Members Corazon Galbreath, Amalia Tirol and Atty. Aster Piollo.
         

During the SP session last Tuesday, Piollo scored critics in media who made comments regarding the delayed investigation into alleged mismanagement of funds allocated for the different TBTK activities.

It was Piollo who first questioned the handling of financial appropriations of the provincial government to medical missions that were part of the TBTK activities.

The lady lawmaker likewise raised questions on the propriety of the attire that contestants were made to wear during the TBTK Miss Bohol International beauty pageant.

"This consultation is just done in aid of legislation and not merely done for the purpose of finding lapses in the conduct of the TBTK activities," Herrera said.

During its initial meeting, the joint committee identified the nature of activities during the TBTK, its objectives and organizational structure.

The joint committee has agreed to invite several personalities who are actively involved in the TBTK festivities such as former governor Rene Relampagos, FCB president Argeo Melisimo, Carmen Gatal, provincial health consultant Francisca Baluyot, publicist Loy Palapos, Betty Balatero, Pureza Veloso-Chatto and city councilor Mariquit Oppus.

First round of consultations is set on Sept. 4. - the Bohol Chronicle

Majority of the Boholanos said they strongly believe Agriculture Secretary Arthur Yap can help Bohol propel further its development once elected as one of the congressmen in the province.

A high rating of 89.2 percent of the respondents said "the way Sec. Yap is attending to Bohol's development projects is an indication of a potential good leader for the province."

The survey was conducted during yesterday's edition of the top-rated "Radyo Merkado" over dyRD (7:45 a.m. - 10 a.m. every Saturday).         

Other respondents who supported Yap's reported plan to run for congressman said that "he's being a trusted Cabinet member of the Arroyo administration is also indicative of his being a performance man."

More than half of those who registered a "yes vote" for Yap commented on their dissatisfaction on the performance of then Rep. Eladio Jala and son, Rep. Adam Jala who served the third congressional district during the past 11 years.

Five percent of the respondents said Yap is "worth a try" being a new face to join Bohol's political arena.

The remaining 5.8 percent did not favor Yap's entry to politics saying he will just be there "to serve his own personal interest."

It maybe noted that Sec. Yap's frequent visit to Bohol came after he was appointed by Pres. Arroyo as her assigned Cabinet member to function as project coordinator for the province. He is a Boholano by affinity being married to a Lobocanon. - the Bohol Chronicle

Rep. Edgar Chatto, a principal author of the Anti-Red Tape Law, has lauded local government units (LGUs) after crafting their Citizen's Charter, a testament to burn the "fats" of frontline government bureaucracy.

But he reminded them as well of their duty to emasculate the flesh of their charter by faithful implementation, or the charter can simply end up an exercise of mockery to public thrust and trust.

At the same time, the congressman encouraged the LGUs which have none yet to hasten their process of formulation because transparency and efficiency can make a government credible.

The Citizen's Charter is an official document - a service standard or a pledge - that communicates information on the services provided by the concerned government agency to the public.         

It describes the step-by-step procedure for availing a particular service, and the guaranteed performance level that the people expect for that service.

The Citizen's Charter is provided for in Republic Act 9485 or An Act To Improve Efficiency in the Delivery of Government Service to the Public By Reducing Bureaucratic Red Tape Preventing Graft and Corruption, and Providing Penalties Therefor. It is shortly titled the Anti Red Tape Law of 2007.

The Act, authored in Congress by Chatto and Reps. Jose de Venecia, Rodriguez

Dadivas, Ace Barbers, Eduardo Zialcita, Rey Aquino and Florencio Noel, responds to the urgent need to establish an effective system that will eliminate bureaucratic red tape, avert graft and corrupt practices, and improve efficiency in government frontline service.

The Act applies to all government offices and agencies, including LGUs and government-owned and -controlled corporations, with or without charter, that provides frontline services.

Chatto's counterpart authors in the Senate of the Anti-Red Tape Law are Sens. Juan Flavier, Edgardo Angara, Aquilino Pimentel, Jr. and Panfilo Lacson.

Chatto himself enlightened several municipal chapters of the Association of Barangay Councils, as in the case of Candijay ABC which invited him as the resource speaker, in their orientation and formulation of the Barangay Citizen's Charter. - the Bohol Chronicle

Gov. Erico Aumentado already has a choice for Bohol's next police provincial director.

In a letter to Chief Supt. Lani-o Nerez, Police Regional Office 7 (PRO 7) director, Aumentado acknowledged receiving a list of three candidates from the former's predecessor, Chief Supt.. Federico Terte.

Instead of choosing from the three names, the governor instead enumerated to Nerez the qualities of the next provincial director he will choose to replace Sr. Supt. Edgardo Ingking who has completed his tour of duty in Bohol and is due for promotion that will make him overqualified for the position.

Aumentado said his preference for provincial director "is one who is very familiar with the terrain of his assignment, knows well the Boholano culture and ready to implement the Bohol Local Integrated Security System (Bliss).

The Bliss is a spin-off of the military's Internal Security System, developed by the military, the police and civilians including non-government organizations (NGOs) in the province.

The governor specified the readiness of Ingking's successor to implement the Bliss in the face of the transfer of the anti-insurgency campaign from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to the Philippine National Police (PNP) as spearhead.

- the Bohol Chronicle

"There is a need to check the market if the Cheaper Medicines Law is being implemented in local pharmacies."

This was the statement issued by Prov'l Board Member Yul Lopez, chair of the committee on health of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan.

With the media hype given on Pres. Arroyo's ordered 50% reduction in prices of some 21 drugs, the provincial official said that its implementation remains to be seen especially in the provinces.

For better guidance of the public, The Bohol Chronicle published on page 10 of this issue the list of medicines with reduced prices.         

The medicines are classified: anti-hypertension, anti-cholesterol, anti-thrombotic, anti-diabetic, antibiotic, and anti-cancer drugs.

The most expensive medicine listed in the reduced price cut is Bleomycin, an anti-cancer drug which is sold at P3,520 (instead of P9,750). The other expensive medicines getting the 50% reduction are Tazocin, P1,270 (instead of P4,614) and Piperacillin P730 (instead of P2,175), both antibiotic drugs.

Lopez said DOH should create the task force to inspect pharmacies in the province.

DOH Secretary Francisco Duque III is mandated to form the task force composed of representatives from DTI, DOH, DILG, BFAD and the local government units.

Meanwhile, Dr. Bobong Yap, a pharmacy owner branded the reduced medicine prices as a mere "political gimmick" of the government. With only 21 medicines included, it is less expected to have an impact among the greatest number of Filipinos considering that hundreds of medicines are sold here. - the Bohol Chronicle

Dengue has already claimed five lives in the province as more fell ill to the deadly virus.

Provincial Health Officer Dr. Reymoses Cabagnot confirmed in an interview with the Chronicle that dengue cases continue to rise with the latest fatality from the town of Talibon.

Tagbilaran City topped in the number of reported cases with over 70 victims based on population density in the city.

Hospitals in the city continue to get admittances, which is expected to increase, according to Cabagnot, with the onset of the rainy season.         

Cabagnot said fever is one of the early common symptoms of dengue and children should be brought to hospitals or rural health units to be checked at once.

He said late response to cases could be fatal since it would be very difficult to treat patients in the late stages of dengue.

The health official reminded the public to dispose stagnant water such as those found in flower vases, dish drains, old tires, and roof gutters.

He called on local government units to help in the information campaign against the deadly virus to eliminate breeding sites of dengue-bearing mosquitoes.

Other towns reporting dengue cases were Calape, 15 cases, Carmen, 10, Balilihan and Catigbian, 8, Talibon, 7, Cortes, 6 and Panglao, 5. - the Bohol Chronicle

The underprivileged workers, including the Overseas Filipino Workers, called "mga bagong bayani" will soon be represented in the halls of Congress of the Philippines .

The Organizations for National Economic Benefits for Overseas Workers, Helpers and Other Laborers or One-Bohol has petitioned the Commission on Elections for its accreditation as a sectoral party-list in the coming 2010 elections, said founding leader Rodolfo Kid Cañeda.

In its petition received by the Comelec Manila dated July 17, 2009, the officers of One-Bohol party-list prayed that it be registered, "representing the disadvantaged sector of labor to participate under the party-list system in the 2010 elections and in the succeeding elections and be accorded rights and privileges."

The Comelec received such petition under SPP Case No. 09-209 (B). It is represented by Cañeda, Atty. Jordan M. Pizarras as executive vice-president and Atty. Joseph Entero as vice-president for the national capital region.
         

ONE-Bohol, Caneda said, is a sectoral organization aimed at fostering and developing the potentials of the working sector and the entire nation by binding themselves in an alliance. It also tries to conserve, promote and enhance the workers economic, political, social, moral, spiritual, and general well-being of the laborer and the Filipino people independent from any government or quasi-government agency, body or program.

When it is registered under RA 7941 or the party-list law, One-Bohol aims to actively participate in the coming 2010 elections, the petitioners said.

To support its accreditation with the Comelec, the petitioners attached the Resolution No. 004-09 approved by the National executive Committee of the One-Bohol.

One-Bohol counts on Atty. Jesus C. Ramos, VP for Luzon; Nelson Makiling, VP for Visayas; Victorio Aleria, VP for Mindanao; Atty. Danilo Bantugan, VP for Bohol; Charlie Ayco, VP for special international chapters; Ruben Balistoy, secretary-general; Alexander Balili, and Danilo Palgan, deputies secretary-general; Marianito Alemania, treasurer; Josephine Pizarras-Lopez, auditor; Enrique Auxilio, assistant treasurer; Engr. Dionisio Neil Balite, auditor; Atty. Antonino Jumawid and Atty. Mia Mascarinas-Green, general legal counsels; Eller Bantugan and Atty. Raul Barbarona, public relations officers; Jovito Cadigal II and Eusalem Quiwag, peace and security officers aside from Cañeda, Pizarras and Entero, as its leaders and prime movers. (RVO) - the Bohol Chronicle

Provincial and national health officials have placed the students of St. Paul High School of Inabanga town under close watch after they have taken random swab tests of 15 out of reported 32 students affected by flu, said Dr. Fruserma Mary A. Uy of the Provincial Health Office.

Uy, who headed the epidermatology surveillance unit, rushed to Inabanga last week responding to reports that students have been downed by A(H1N1).

She said in an interview that there were 32 students who showed signs of symptoms but this has to be checked.

She confirmed that 14 of more than 90 school children have been positive of the influenza A(H1N1).

This prompted school authorities to suspend for ten days classes of this school but set to be resumed on August 24 if situation improves.         

But health officials downplayed the threat of the flu to allay fears that the spread was already at the "community outbreak" level, saying it was just a "mild A(H1N1)".

They are now fast recovering in self quarantine in their respective homes, said the health officials led by provincial health officer Dr. Reymoses Cabagnot in a radio interview.

PHO bared that the school kids were declared positive of the ailment as indicated in the results of the swab test taken from them.

- the Bohol Chronicle

Authorities warned that the province has become the source of illegally recruited workers despite efforts to arrest illegal recruiters operating with local contacts in various municipalities.

The latest attempt to ship out Boholano workers was intercepted at the City Port last Wednesday where nine recruits were about to board a Manila-bound Superferry midnight last Thursday.

SPO4 Eduardo Honoridez formed a team to track down the recruiters after a tip was received by PO3 Melinda Basalo, women's desk investigator that a group of Boholano workers will be boarding the midnight trip for Manila.

The team intercepted at the port terminal a certain Alexander Moncada, 45, married and resident of Taytay, Loon said to be handler of the recruits. He was together with a minor, one of the recruits who claimed to be 18 years old.         

The team rounded up the recruits at the terminal building while waiting for the passengers to board.

Moncada said that he was not aware that it was an illegal recruitment done as he was just requested by a certain Columbia Sarabia, 45 of Cuasi, Loon who is working in a garment factory in Manila.

Provincial Board Member Aster Piollo, chair of the committee on women and family welfare was requested by the composite team to proceed to the city port to assist in the investigation.

Interrogation at the Coast Guard office identified the other recruits as Mary Rose Hagunos, 20, Marites Merran, 23, Lonica Layao, 20, Laura Pangan 24, Jeremias Aleman, 34, Jaime Aleman, 32 and two minors identified only as Mary Jane and Lordly Joy. They are residents of either Loon or Balilihan towns.

During the interrogation, the recruits as well as Moncada, the alleged handler, failed to show pertinent documents to legalize their recruitment of workers here. Authorities said that Moncada will be charged as accessory once formal charges can be filed in court against Sarabia.

Sarabia, the alleged recruiter was contacted by the operatives in Manila. She admitted having no papers to legalize her recruitment.

Trinidad Mabajin, wife of a certain Mauro Mabajin was identified as the claimants of their boat tickets which were all paid in Manila by Sarabia.

Ms. Sarabia was asked to present her license as a recruiter and an employment contract between their employer and the recruits. She failed to present both required documents.

The female recruits were brought to the Bohol Crisis Management Center before they were turned over to their respective parents.

The team was composed of Honoridez and PO1 Danny Valdez of RIU7, PO3 Basalo, PO3 Elma Sumaoy of WCPD, PIDMB, SPO1 Teofanes Olaso, SPO1 Dunhill Sarmiento, SPO1 Anecito Ampong, SPO1 Reynaldo Rejas, PO3 Ben Serohijos, PO3 Teogenes Sarmiento, PO2 Philip Polinas PO1 Maximino Macua, Jr., PO1 Elma Piquero, PO1 Rey Olar and PO1 Joselito Toloreso.

- the Bohol Chronicle

The only way to convince the public that there was no anomaly in the P20 million unliquidated cash advances of city hall is to avoid further indication of a cover-up, according to Vice Mayor Jose Antonio Veloso.

During an interview yesterday, Veloso stood by his statement in last Sunday's banner story that the "minority bloc fears of another cover-up."

"The minority bloc based its fears for the reason that it took them the hard way to get the documents of the unliquidated cash advances," he explained.

He recalled that he has to write the Commission on Audit in Manila to release the documents as they could not source it out from the city accountant's office where these documents would have originated.

"What was surprising was that in the previous year's COA Report, the unliquidated cash advances are automatically included in the report. However, for 2007 and 2008, the supporting documents detailing the names of those who cashed advance were no longer to be found," Veloso stressed.

Veloso clarified allegations that he has not lifted a finger to comment on the unliquidated cash advances report. He said that his official move was to refer the report to the committees on appropriations and accountability as these are the proper bodies to scrutinize on said report.         

The vice mayor reacted sharply to the allegations of Kagawad Oscar Glovasa, chairman of the committee on appropriations questioning him for not issuing his personal comments on the matter.

Glovasa, during last Thursday's session apologized to the vice mayor for demanding from him (Veloso) his comments on the issue.

"Pardon the term," Glovasa said during the session after the vice mayor instead asked the lawmaker that it was his committee that would render the report, and not him as presiding officer.

Veloso was asked whether it was his own words quoted in the Chronicle last Sunday regarding the "cover-up."

He admitted that he must not have said the exact word as "cover-up," but that was what he meant when he was interviewed due to the circumstances behind the unliquidated cash advances issue at the city hall.

"If there was no cover-up, why should I have to write COA Manila for the documents?" Veloso asked.

He challenged the majority bloc that if they don't want the public to suspect of a "cover-up," then they should make the documents available at the soonest possible time, referring to the particulars of the 2008 unliquidated cash advances amounting to P20 million.

- the Bohol Chronicle

Administration city councilors do not see any irregularity in the still unsettled cash advances of several city officials and employees.

Administration City Kagawad Oscar Glovasa answered allegations of City Vice Mayor Jose Antonio Veloso and fellow lawmakers belonging to the minority that unliquidated cash advances amounting to P6.4 million in 2007 and over P20 million in 2008 are anomalous.

Meanwhile, the city mayor, in his paid radio program yesterday said there is no truth to Chronicle report that there is a P20 million unliquidated cash advances. He announced that the unliquidated cash advance is only P661,162.25 (and not P20 million).       

GLOVASA

However, the claim of the mayor was put to rest as Kagawad Glovasa, on the same radio program, confirmed that the P20 million unliquidated cash advances still exist as contained in the 2008 COA Audit Report. The P661,162.25 was just for the 2007 cash advances, Glovasa clarified.

In a privilege speech delivered during the Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) session last Thursday, Glovasa hit back at opposition councilors saying the "majority bloc have never been convinced yet of any anomaly about the unliquidated cash advances".

Glovasa, chairman of the SP committee on appropriation where the contentious 2007 and 2008 Audit Reports of the Commission on Audit (COA) are referred, clarified that his committee and the members of the majority are not plotting a cover-up should there be an investigation on the audit findings.         

The appropriation committee chair likewise refuted accusations that he wants the inquiry on the 2007 unliquidated cash advances sent to the archives.

According to Glovasa, the July 29 appropriation committee report recommended to archive referrals of several documents from the city auditor which were merely informative in nature.

Glovasa said he never recommended relegating to the archives the investigation on the 2007 unliquidated cash advances.

Based on the April 24, 2009 report made by City Accountant Kurt Bungabong, from the unliquidated balance of P6,478,903.46 as of the 2007 year-end audit, P4,430,582 were already liquidated. From the P2,048,320.90 unliquidated balance, liquidation reports have been made to the amount of P1,387,158.65.

Considering these figures presented by the city accountant, Glovasa said only P661,162.25 remain unsettled of the 2007 cash advances.

- the Bohol Chronicle

Second district Rep. Roberto "Bob" Cajes yesterday categorically said he is not interested to run for governor in next year's elections.

The statement of the last termer solon came amid reports that he is secretly campaigning for his gubernatorial bid in his district.

When contacted for comments, Cajes laughed off the report saying that in his town sorties, he announced all indications to be the possible running mate of First district Rep. Edgar Chatto, another last termer solon who is leading in all surveys conducted among possible gubernatoriables.

CAJES

Cajes, a former provincial board member before he run for Congress said that he would be comfortable to go back to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, this time, as its presiding officer, if elected as vice governor.         

The Chatto-Cajes tandem is reportedly catching fire in the towns even as both declined to officially announce their political positioning for the 2010 polls.

Cajes, during the same interview with the Chronicle likewise denied reports that he is fielding his wife, Trinidad Mayor Judith Cajes to run for congresswoman in his district.

"I do not intend to contest Gov. Erico Aumentado who is running for congressman in our district," the solon said, while confirming that his wife will run for her second term as mayor of Trinidad. - the Bohol Chronicle

By Amy Norton, Reuters

NEW YORK (Reuters Health) â€" Men who drink beer or liquor on a regular basis may face a heightened risk of several different types of cancer, a new study suggests.

Researchers found that among nearly 3,600 Canadian men ages 35 to 70, those who averaged at least a drink per day had higher risks of a number of cancers than men who drank occasionally or not at all -- including cancers of the esophagus, stomach, colon, lungs, pancreas, liver and prostate.

When the researchers looked at individual types of alcohol, though, only beer and "spirits" -- and not wine -- were linked to elevated cancer risks.

In general, the odds increased in tandem with the men's lifetime alcohol intake, according to findings published in the Cancer Prevention and Detection.

With several cancers, men who drank at least once per day tended to have higher risks than those who drank on a regular, but less-than-daily, basis.

When it came to esophageal cancer, for instance, men who drank one to six times per week had an 83 percent higher risk than teetotalers and less-frequent drinkers, while daily drinkers had a three-fold higher risk.

In addition, when the researchers looked only at daily drinkers, the risks generally increased with the number of years the men had been at it.

"Our results show that the heaviest consumers over the lifetime had the biggest increases in the risks of multiple sites of cancer," lead researcher Dr. Andrea Benedetti, of McGill University in Montreal, told Reuters Health in an email.

Many studies have suggested that moderate drinking -- usually defined as no more than a drink or two per day -- can be a healthy habit, particularly when it comes to heart disease risk.

But the current study suggests that even such moderate drinking levels are linked to higher risks of certain cancers, at least when the alcohol of choice is beer or liquor.

“Bank of America spent $40,000,000 dollars on airplanes last year. We spent $40,000 to develop an iPhone application so you can check your balance from anywhere.”  (Hmm, the iPhone app should cost like $2.99.)

“Goldman Sachs just paid out 16 billion dollars in bonuses to their employees. If we had an extra 16 billion dollars lying around, we’d put it in the bank for a rainy day. (If Goldman had never paid out bonuses they never would have needed government intervention.)” - Source

Canada is reporting a finance deficit of 5 billion Canadian dollars (about 4.5 billion U. S. dollars) in June, as a result of lower tax revenues and high spending on employment insurance (EI) and the auto bailout.

In the same month last year, the government had a 1.6 billion Canadian dollars surplus.

The deficit for the first three months of the fiscal year, April to June, widened to 12.5 billion Canadian dollars, compared with a surplus of 800 million Canadian dollars in the same period in 2008, the Finance Department said in its monthly Fiscal Monitor Friday.

In June, revenues fell 13.1 percent, due to a lower taking from income tax and the goods and service tax (GST).

Total spending hit 20.7 billion Canadian dollars, up 25.2 percent, because of higher E costs and support payments for the auto industry.

The government is projecting a deficit of 50.2 billion Canadian dollars this fiscal year. (1 U.S. dollar = 1.1111 Canadian dollars)(PNA/Xinhua)

Despite the global financial crisis, demand for oil in the country increased in the first five months of 2009.

Citing data from the Department of Energy, leading oil refiner Petron Corp. said oil consumption from January to May 2009 inched by 0.4 percent to 290,700 barrels per day from 289,600 barrels per day for the same period last year.

According to Petron "the current low prices of fuel encouraged increased spending of fuel products."

Prices of oil in the world market plunged in the last quarter of 2008 and up to the first quarter of 2009 as a result of economic slowdown.

In a statement to the local bourse, Petron noted that oil prices recovered in the first half of this year by as much as 30 percent.

Likewise, Dubai crude prices stabilized and are being sold at US$ 59.3 per barrel during the second quarter, much higher than the first quarter average of US$ 44.31 per barrel, bringing the 1st half average at US$ 51.93 per barrel.

On June Dubai crude averaged at US$ 70 per barrel, Petron said that while this is still significantly lower than the high prices in the first half last year, this is a remarkable recovery of more than 30 percent since the start of the year.

The “optimism that the economy has bottomed already with some month-on-month improvements in economic indices supported the rally in oil prices in the second quarter,” Petron said.

At the same time, the company said competition remains stiff with the new players implementing different marketing strategies and aggressively expanding.

Moreover, Petron admitted that independent oil players are even leading in the liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) industry controlling 50 percent market share.

Earlier, Petron has decided to shift its strategies to manage the competition by venturing into the construction of 200 micro-filling stations all over the country.

Petron recorded a net profit of P1.8 billion in the first half of 2009.

But Ramon S. Ang, Petron chairman and CEO, said this marks the continuation of the company’s recovery from its P3.9 billion net loss last year.

“Despite lower sales volumes and a difficult business environment, we were able to sustain our recovery,” Mr. Ang said.

“We are confident that we can continue to improve on our performance over the next few months with the initiatives we have introduced. These initiatives are aimed at giving Petron new revenue streams while enhancing its leadership position in the industry,” Ang added.

Petron’s 180,000 barrel-per-day oil refinery produces a full range of petroleum products to supply around 40 percent of the country’s total fuel requirements. It currently has a network of more than 1,300 service stations nationwide.

The company also plans to construct a second Petro Fluidized Catalytic Cracking Unit that will enable the full conversion of residual products to more valuable gasoline, diesel, LPG and propylene.

Petron needs US$ 1 billion over a five-year period for PetroFCC2 project. - pna

A new economic zone would rise in Polomolok, South Cotabato with the development of a 59-hectare property into a manufacturing and information and technology project worth P701.1 million by Richmond Land Innovations Inc.

The Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) has already approved the project under Resolution No. 09-337.

The new ecozone,to be called the Mindanao Economic Development Zone, is located in Barangay Matinao, Polomolok, South Cotabato.

PEZA Director-General Lilia B. De Lima has informed Trade and Industry Secretary Peter B. Favila that the project’s approval is still subject to the issuance of the required Malacanang proclamation.

Richmond Land is a subsidiary of the RD Group of Companies, a family-controlled enterprise founded and managed by businessman Rodrigo E. Rivera Sr.

Of the 59.911-hectare ecozone, 50 percent would be allocated for light industrial area and 20 percent for IT component. The remaining 30 percent would be roads and open spaces.

Target locators are export-oriented light manufacturing industries and IT services.

The development of the Mindanao Economic Development Zone is expected to help perk up economic developments in the area.

Although South Cotabato is a peaceful area in southern Mindanao, it has not improved much.

Polomolok is a first-class municipality of South Cotabato. Situated between General Santos City and Tupi, it has a population as of 2007 census of 131,436 people in 22,492 households.
Polomolok is home to Dole Philippines, the biggest pineapple plantation in the world. The town of Polomolok has a potential to become a city.

South Cotabato is one of the provinces of SOCCSKSARGEN region in Mindanao. Its capital is Koronadal City, and it borders Sultan Kudarat to the north and west, Sarangani to the south and east, and Davao del Sur to the east. To the southeast lies Sarangani Bay.

Its major products are pineapples, corn, rice, asparagus, vegetables and livestock and poultry.

Dole Philippines Inc. is the largest industrial firm involved in growing, processing and exporting of fresh and canned pineapple. As of 2004, the area planted to pineapple is 15,507.872 hectares with an average production volume of 31.94 metric tons per hectare.

This industry, which is situated at Barangay Cannery Site, generates about 6,000 jobs at present. It is considered as the biggest taxpayer in the municipality.

After pineapple, the most grown crop in the municipality is corn, where 3,931 hectares or 13.46 percent of its total cultivated agricultural lands are devoted to corn production.

Rice is also one of the major crops in the municipality. An estimated 445 hectares are utilized for rice production, of which only 300 hectares are irrigated, 45 are lowland, and 100 are upland.

Rice production is not enough to supply the demand of the rice-eating populace. Rice supply in the municipality depends on other rice producing areas in the region.

Polomolok is also known for its asparagus production covering over 1,435 hectares of land, mostly in Barangays Sulit, Sumbakil, Crossing Palkan, Bentung, Lapu, Pagalungan, Lumakil, Rubber and Magsaysay.

Farmer growers have access to the export market due to contract agreement with Marsman-Drysdale Agri-Ventures and Tropifresh. The surplus are sold in the local market and diversifically used as supplements for cattle fattening.

Livestock and poultry production has increased tremendously in the past years. This is partly due to the municipality’s climate and terrain which is ideal for livestock and poultry production. The land area devoted for agri-livestock production is 80 hectares or 0.27 percent of the total agricultural land. (PNA)

Philippines is a big candidate as an investment destination now that risk aversion has declined and investors start pouring their money again in emerging markets.

However, this will complicate monetary policy decision in the case of the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP).

BSP Deputy Governor Diwa Guinigundo told reporters that surge of capital inflows will be a challenge for them since this will affect the inflation outlook.

He explained that growth of domestic liquidity (M3) will be higher as the economy becomes more attractive to foreign investors.

Also, the exchange rate will also be affected since this will make the peso stronger against the US dollar, he said.

Improvement in the exchange rate will not only be a problem of the central bank but also the exporters and the beneficiaries of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs).

Guinigundo said reports about the coming out of signs of global economic recovery has lessened risk aversion and have stabilized financial markets.

He explained that although “risks are still elevated, (the) Philippines - given the generally sound macroeconomic fundamentals â€" will naturally attract capital flows.”

“With lower risk aversion, risk appetite has somewhat increased (and) therefore they're willing to go into emerging markets so they will begin to invest and Philippines will be a good candidate for investment destination,” he said.

Guinigundo said they have noted higher investments since late July and these were placed in the equities and money markets as well as bank deposits.

With the rise in investments and its impact on among other the inflation, exchange rate and economic activities inflation outlook will also be affected and a major concern for the BSP, which is an inflation targeting central bank.

Guinigundo said that in the past they address this situation through encouraging both the public and the private sector to prepay their foreign obligations “so that demand for dollars will also increase if only to match increased supply of dollars on acct of capital flows.”

He said that “(increased inflows) complicates conduct of monetary policy so we adopt to new situation.”

“If inflows are high we buy dollar to make sure volatilities, sharp and prolonged, are avoided,” he said.

Guinigundo said that the almost 19 percent rise of the peso against the dollar in 2007 cost the central bank big since they have to address the fast rise of the local currency.

“That's the cost of stabilization. Everybody lost in 2007,” he added.

BSP said the current inflation outlook remain favorable and the present policy stance is supportive of growth as inflation remains low and is eyed to be within the government’s 2.5-4.5 percent target for this year and 3.5-5.5 percent target for 2010.

Monetary officials again revised downward their inflation forecast for this year to three percent for this year from 3.3 percent previously while 3.3 percent for next year from the previous 3.5 percent forecast.

Relatively, BSP Governor Amando Tetangco, Jr., said Thursday said the expected recovery of the global economy “may cause upward pressure on oil and other commodity prices,” thus, monetary officials will pay “close attention to the emerging risks to the inflation outlook as well as to indications of the strength of economic activity.”(PNA)

By By Joann Santiago
PNA

Rate of price increases in the Philippines may have reached its lowest rate last July or this month, a Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) official said.

“Based on our estimate, it may have bottomed out in July or August,” BSP Deputy Governor Diwa Guinigundo told reporters Thursday night.

Inflation in the country registered a 22-year low of 0.2 percent last July after peaking at 12.5 percent in August 2008.

Monetary officials and analysts are saying that it may have bottomed out in the third quarter this year with others saying it will even go negative.

However, Guinigundo said they do not see deflation in the country even if this has been experienced abroad since upside risks like volatilities in oil and food prices will prevent this from happening.

He added that base effects continue to drive the deceleration of inflation.

Inflation worldwide registered a big spike in 2008 after oil prices posted a record high of about US$ 141 per barrel by mid-year.

This resulted in the same trend in the prices of food commodities, thus, the jump in inflation rates.

Economists are saying that with the prices of oil in the international market going up again, inflation will follow but monetary officials said that the levels reached last year will not happen again in the coming months. (PNA)

Change the World by Brian Tracy

You cannot change the world,
But you can present the world with one
Improved person - Yourself.
You can go to work on yourself and make
Yourself into the kind of person you admire
And respect.
You can become a role model and set a
standard for others.
You can control and discipline yourself to
resist acting or speaking in a negative way
toward anyone for any reason.
You can always insist upon doing things the
loving way.
By doing these things each day,
You can continue on your journey Towards
Becoming an exceptional human being.

The Dance of the Golden Bird

I was often ridiculed by friends in Mindanao nga sa Bohol, lamesa ray patag. What do you think?

This is already an established fact. But why?

Only pharmacies and drugstores with automated ordering systems are mandated by law to implement the mandatory reduction of prices of selected medicines effective August 15, clarified Sangguniang Panlalawigan Health Committee Chairman Cesar Tomas Lopez.

Those drugstores still operating on a manual basis still have until September 15 before they could be forced to implement the 50% reduction in prices as mandated by the cheaper medicines act, he said.

At the Kapihan sa PIA Thursday, Lopez, who is also a medical practitioner bared this during the weekly forum aired live over DyTR.

By Executive order 821, President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo effected the 50% cut in 7 categorized drugs as voluntarily given by pharmaceutical companies.

The cut was also implemented after the Department of Health recommended to the country’s chief executive the list of drugs that have been offered for reduction.

Some of the categorized drugs fall under anti-hypertensive, anti-cholesterol, anti-thrombotic, anti-diabetics, anti-biotics and anti-cancer drugs.

In a check with the list provided by Dr. Lopez, anti-hypertensive Telmisartan’s Micardis is now lowered from 521.50 to 25.57 at the government mediated access (GMA) price. Aprovel, then at retailed at P48.76 is now P24.38. Norvasc’s 10 mg tables is now retailed at a maximum price of at P38.50. Lipitor 10 mg coated tablet is 34.45 while zithromaz 200 mg suspension is now sold at P427.50.

Cytosar-U 100 mg vial and Adriblastiba 50 mg vial injection are also retailed at P900 and 1465.75 respectively. 

For anti-thrombotics, like Plavix then at P123.50 is now at 61.75 for its 75mg film coated tablet.

For its anti-diabetic, Diamicron then priced at P17 is now sold at 7.50.

Antibiotic Tacozin’s Piperazillin 2g 250 mg vial then sold at 2,175.50 is now at P730.00, Ciprobay 500 mg tablet then priced at 99.23 is now accessible at P49.65. Flagyl 125 mg suspension is sold at P131.00 then, is now at P65.50. Augmentin’s 625 mg tablet then priced at P97.75 is now available at P48.90.

The rest of the medicines with shaved prices are anti-cancer drugs Blenoxane, Paraplatin, Platinol, Cytoxan, Vepesid, Piru-nethol and zexate alos cut their prices at half.

Complaints about non-implementation of the drugs price-cut, Dr. Lopez said, would be forwarded to the Food and Drugs Administration (formerly BFAD) at JA. Clarin Street, this city. (PIA)

A woman who woke up with one breast double the size of the other says pop star Pink was crucial to alerting her to the problem.

Kimberley Koy says she thought the experience was "very funny" â€" once she was told it was not breast cancer.

The cattle station worker's ballooning boob shot out overnight after a plane trip to Sydney to see pop sensation Pink.

But the trouble, her doctor told her, had started a week earlier when a runaway cow had stabbed Ms Koy in the chest with its horn as she worked on a Cape York property.

Ms Koy, who has C-cup silicone gel breast implants, brushed off the incident after the horn did not break her skin or leave a bruise.

But the English-born farm worker was oblivious to the damage the horn had done to her implant until it popped up after the plane flight.

"When I told the doctor I’d flown she said, ‘That makes perfect sense because air pressure forced out the silicone’," she said.

"I could have gone years without knowing.

"When I woke up the day after the plane trip it was double the size of my right one … I thought I had breast cancer.

"If I hadn’t have gone to the Pink concert I wouldn’t have known my breast was leaking." - Source

Symantec has unveiled a list of 100 "worst of the worst" websites, nearly half of which used porn to lure people to pages booby trapped with viruses.

The US computer security titan's list of "Dirtiest Web Sites" discovered in recent months included names such as firstsexyteen, schoolbad, and cheatsarchive.

Videogame players sometimes search online for "cheats," software secrets that let them change game play.

While 48 percent of the websites on the list featured adult content, the remaining tainted online locales ran a gamut of topics including deer hunting, catering, figure skating, legal services, and retail electronics.

People visiting the websites face risks of having their computers infected with malicious software that could mine personal data or give cybercriminals control of machines, according to Symantec.

"There has been exponential growth in the number of online threats that are constantly evolving as cybercriminals look for new ways to target your money, identity or assets," said Symantec consumer business unit senior vice president Rowan Trollope.

"Armed with this information, consumers are empowered to make informed decisions about which sites to visit."

Websites that made Symantec's "dirtiest" list were crammed with "staggering" numbers of virus threats, according to Trollope.

CLICK HERE to learn more about Norton Antivirus

By Gil Carolino
Philippine Daily Inquirer

In 1987, Malacañang appointed me to be a member of The Committee on State Visits of President Corazon C. Aquino. I was then with Philippine Airlines and this unexpected appointment gave me the distinct privilege of going with Tita Cory on all her trips abroad. She made only a handful, less than a dozen (nothing compared to the more than 50 and 30 trips of two Philippine presidents), but they were more than enough for me to know Tita Cory up close and personal.

Tita Cory never gave the PAL crew any problem. She never demanded anything as far as service was concerned, like asking for special and elaborate meals. The only thing that she asked to be served was arroz caldo which, after that, became a standard feature of PAL’s inflight meals.

Tita Cory was very pleasant with the crew and everyone on the plane, including the regular passengers whom Tita Cory sought so she could have even a short conversation with them inside the plane. Everyone was awed by Tita Cory’s simplicity and pure heart.
Lunch at Arlegui

I am neither a close family friend nor an official of her administration, yet, very early on during her presidency, Tita Cory invited me and my wife to have lunch one Sunday with her children (Noynoy and Kris were not there) at the Arlegui residence inside the Malacañang compound. There we saw a fine lady, not the President of the land, but the loving mother to Ballsy, Pinky and Viel and their spouses, and the very doting lola (grandmother) to her apos (grandchildren).

And, how could you not be forever grateful to Tita Cory if she showed genuine concern for your safety and welfare of your family?

A few weeks before the outbreak of the 1991 Gulf war, I was all packed up to be based in Dubai, UAE, to be PAL’s regional vice president/GM for the Middle East. As a matter of respect, I called up the Office of the President and told Tita Cory’s eldest daughter Ballsy to inform the President about it. Before I could even hang up, Tita Cory was already on the line and asked me, “O, gusto mo ba yan?” to which I answered in the affirmative. She might have felt differently because a few minutes after we talked, then PAL Chair and now Quezon City Mayor Sonny Belmonte called me to his office and told me, “O, tumawag si Tita Cory, ayaw ka niyang ma-assign don kasi may guerra daw don.”

Out of harm’s way

I could not describe my feelings. I was simply overwhelmed because, to me, it was unimaginable that the President of the Philippines, who had far more important things to attend to, would personally go out of her way to do that.

Napakahalaga ng buhay ng tao sa kanya. She showed it again when she, subsequently, directed PAL to operate special flights to evacuate her countrymen who had no way out as they were stranded in the region during that most critical period. Tita Cory personally followed up the developments and actual operations of the special flights which, I thought, she could just have assigned to her Cabinet and staff to coordinate with PAL.

Tita Cory is gone. However, our spontaneous outpouring of grief and sadness is solid proof that we fully embrace the ideals and aspirations she wholeheartedly and endlessly fought for. Let us keep the fire brightly glowing until another Tita Cory comes, though I feel sad realizing the fact that that time will be beyond my lifetime.

Medical supplies which included Closed IV Catheter system, butterfly needles, and syringes of different sizes were distributed by Sandugo USA to different Tagbilaran City barangay health centers and some government officials.         

The medical supplies which was shipped from New Jersey was made possible thru Valley Hospital of New Jersey and Mr. Boni Dante, head of the Endoscopy department of Valley Hospital. Dante is the immediate past president of Sandugo USA.

The said supplies were received by Bool Barangay Captain Nestor Mendez, Booy Barangay Captain Eutorgio Telmo, Jr., Dampas Barangay Captain Fredison Ingles. The Celestino Gallares Memorial Hospital , Tagbilaran Puericulture Center and the Cong. Simeon Toribio Memorial Hospital in Carmen are also slated to receive the items for hospital consumption. - the bohol chronicle

Student volunteers of Bohol Wisdom School underwent first aid training in the campus last Aug. 1 and 2.

The activity was spearheaded by BWS teachers namely, Cherry S. Calacat - Red Cross Youth Chapter Adviser; Gemma M. Tebio - National Service Training Program professor of the College Department and Norberta I. Romo - Grade School Supreme Student Government Adviser.         

The two-day training started with a series of lecture by the National Red Cross resource speakers, Tagbilaran Chapter on First-Aid and Remedies for Common Accidents. It was highlighted on the second day with applications on the theories learned during the training as well as a practicum in the form of a group relay to gauge their knowledge. RCY membership cards were given to the participants to qualify them as First-Aid givers in and off campus.

BWS RCY volunteers hopefully will be able to integrate in their academic life the value of community service not only in the campus but also to the larger community. (Astee Aeaea Uy)

By MICHALLE WONG-GUILLENA

The University of Bohol College of Tourism/Hospitality Management (T/HM) will have its 16th college day's celebration on August 21 to 22, 2009 at the university gymnasium and quadrangle.

Dean Ma. Asuncion Laxa-Bersabal disclosed that this year's celebration will focus on the revival of boholano culture, particularly in games and in literary -musical competition. Aside from the usual sportsfest, the college will include the native games such as: maring-maring, bato-lata, sato, birahanay, tagoanay, tubig-tubig, bagol-bagol, litik, julinay and bihaganay. In the literary- musical contest the students will compete in harana, balak, drama-drama and sabay.

Leading the preparation of the activity is the student government of T/HM composed of Julius Genita, governor. Kelly Ian Vestil, vice governor, Steffani Marie Cagampang, secretary, Maritess Jaictin, treasurer, Nicolas Andrei Bunao, auditor, and board members Jennifer Abucejo, Daryl Balbuena, Wilnet Ryan Bersabe, Desiree Bongcahig, Gaudencio Galleros, Kim Garcia, James Michael Ramayla, Renato Salomon and Joy Shermae Serafico. - the bohol chronicle

By GLENN A. MANIGQUE

Twenty-five schools from the different towns in Bohol joined the Informatics' 7th Annual On-The-Spot Digital Poster Making Competition on Aug. 7 held at Informatics Computer Institute, this city.

Out of the 25 schools, Michael A. Taculad of Faraon National High School (Jagna) emerged as the overall grand champion beating Marvin Russel A. Elaba (Colegio) Dela Medalla Milagrosa-Jagna) first runner up and Melissa Ann T. Dela Cruz (Tagbilaran Grace Christian School).

Each of the three winners received trophies, medals and Informatics (Bohol) scholarship grants.         

Victoriano "Ryan" Tirol III, center manager, said that the contest was conducted in response to the provincial government's thrust in promoting information technology (IT) and in the development of our public and private school's IT capabilities province wide. He further noted that as a testament of its sincere dedication to uphold its global leadership in IT training and education services, Informatics-Bohol will continue to organize IT-related competitions in the next following months.

The winners' respective coaches were Junnel Osi (Faraon National High School), Sylvia Acedo (Colegio Dela Medalla Milagrosa-Jagna) and Arnel O. Dela Cruz (Tagbilaran Grace Christian School).

The other participants were: Lindon Joseph Calope of Camel Academy; Riza Solarte of Valencia High School, Judiel V. Ladra of Tabuan National High School; Ma. Lee Galgo of Cangawa National High School; Claude Albert O. Romero of Holy Trinity Academy; Jaime G. Biloy of Bilar National High School; Rudelyn C. Butlay of Alicia Technical-Vocational High School; Troy Joseph G. Digaum of Holy Infant Academy; Adrian R. Masas of Tulang National High School; Jaypee Ian I. Morgia of Cong. Pablo Malasarte Mem. High School; Robert Louie U. Mandin of Holy Family of Nazareth School; Enrilyn C. Boligao of Holy Cross Academy; Timothy Jan S. Paredes of Mansasa High School; Jeson G. Galgo of San Isidro Technical Vocational High School; Mark Andrew A. Anong of Corella High School; Ailene April D. Ras of San Roque National High School; Jima G. Embang of Saint John the Baptist Academy; Joan G. Nacorda of CVSCAFT-TCC; Janine Mae L. Sumaoy of Lourdes High School; Matt Reggie L. Barcenas of Infant King Academy; Maricel A. Sombrio of Manga National High School; Sharon Fe A. Fucanan of San Agustin Academy.

As tourism booms, islanders led by their officials and a beach operator in a six-hectare island barangay of Pandanon, Getafe, dispute over a portion of the white sand beach now attracting foreign visitors from Cebu.

During the hearing conducted last week by environment committee of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan following the protest of barangay folks led by captain Lydia Abapo, the two parties apparently wrangle over a sandbar.

Abapo sent a letter to the provincial government questioning the approval of Municipal Resolution No 82, series of 2009, endorsing in effect the application for foreshore lease of a certain Mr. Antonio Ouano, Sr.

In her petition dated April 26, 2009 signed by 707 residents, she asked the Talibon based Community Environment Natural Resources Office headed by Officer-in-charge CENRO Alejandro Estopa to look into Ouano's application for foreshore lease.         

Pandanon officials has passed on April 11, 2009 a Resolution "opposing the foreshore lease application (FLA) of Mary M. Ouano adjacent to approved FLA (VII-2) 615 of Ernesto C. Ouano Sr. at barangay Pandanon, Getafe, Bohol and any other application involving the same family."

For his part, acting vice-mayor Camilo A. Torrefranca, in his response to Pandanon officials's demand, questioned why the Sangguniang Bayan was not the addressee nor furnished of the barangay Resolution.

He lamented that other agencies, such as the DENR, Department of Tourism, tourism committee chairs of the House and Senate, including Mayor Theresa P. M. Camacho, were instead furnished of the barangay Resolution. - the bohol chronicle

City Councilor Bebiano Inting stood by his cause against the allegedly overcharging Bohol Light Company, Inc., delivering, for the nth time, in the Sangguniang Panlungsod session on Friday a privilege speech to tell the power consumers of the BLCI "lies."

He absorbed the company's branding him of being misinformed and peddling unfounded accusations against the electric utility.

Inting recalled that in its published statement, the BLCI confirmed that its metering charge was not included in the decision under Energy Regulatory Commission Case No. 2007-122RC, "although inadvertently," and that it filed a motion for clarification with the ERC on said charge.

He said the BLCI has been "lying and advertently misleading because its motion was for a prayer for recovery of the difference from the final judgment against its provisional authority which, in its self-serving computation, amounted to P0.0941 per kilowatthour (kwh) collectible for a period of seven months and, among others, if the metering system charge was inadvertently omitted in the final rate schedule."

The ERC, in its decision, authorized the BLCI to recover only the P0.0547 per kwh for a period of 12 months effective on the next billing cycle upon receipt of the said order which was promulgated on July 7, 2008, Inting said.

Under the principle of ejusdem generis, the mention of a general term after the enumeration of specific matters should be held to mean that of the general term or should be of the same nature as the specific matter. - the bohol chronicle

The death toll due to dengue in the province continues to increase while records showed that most of the victims are residing in the city.

As of last count, four fatalities were confirmed by the Provincial Health Office.         

The fatalities were identified as Julian Ahmad, 2, Poblacion, Tubigon; Michelle Basadre, 6, Graham Ave,., Taghbilaran City; Casandra Lee Amizola, 6, Belderol St., Tagbilaran City and Norma Jess Guria, 6, Poblacion, Talibon.

PHO reported that the most number of cases are in the city with 70 victims recorded at various hospitals.

Other towns which reported dengue victims were Calape, 15 cases, Carmen, 10, Balilihan and Catigbian, 8, Talibon, 7, Cortes, 6 and Panglao, 5. - the Bohol Chronicle

The case on illegal gambling against Mansasa Barangay Captain Manolo Blanco was transferred to the office of the Regional State Prosecutor after the Tagbilaran City Prosecutor's Office inhibited from handling the case.

City Prosecutor Adriano Montes said the counsel of Blanco filed a motion for inhibition which practically made the city prosecutor's office inhibit from handling the case of Blanco who was arrested during a raid conducted by elements of the regional intelligence division based in Cebu City.

Earlier, Asst. City Prosecutor Alberto Rara submitted a resolution which could have elevated the case to the Regional Trail Court (RTC).         

The accused was given 15 days to answer the resolution. - the bohol chronicle

Former Gov. Rene Relampagos and Prov'l Board Member Yul Lopez are both determined to run for congressman in the first district during the 2010 elections, a post to be vacated by last termer Rep. Edgar Chatto. The two are first degree cousins.

Relampagos told the Chronicle that after making personal consultation with his leaders, he got the endorsement to run for congressman in the first district. However, he was quick to admit that if ever he pushes through with his candidacy, he has to resolve the matter first with his cousin, BM Lopez, who also is hell bent to run for Congress in the same district.         

The former governor said per advice from his supporters, it would be best that he will position himself for congressman while Lopez can have the better option to run for re-election as board member (also in the first district).

For his part, Lopez said that his interest to run for Congress has long been announced to his leaders. In fact, it was only recently that he learned of the interest of his cousin, Rene, to run also for the same post.

Negotiations will continue, the board member said, with their uncle, former Assemblyman Chito Castillo who has a major influence on the outcome of their final decision. - the bohol chronicle

The Office of the Ombudsman has found enough grounds to proceed with the criminal and administrative complaint for graft and corruption against Tagbilaran city mayor filed by the Bohol Chronicle Radio Corp.

In an order dated July 10, 2009, The Ombudsman, through graft investigator Samuel Malazarte, directed the Tagbilaran mayor to file his counter affidavit to refute the graft charges against him within ten days from receipt of the order.

The mayor has been charged in the Ombudsman for causing undue injury to an ordinary taxpayer by waging a malicious tax harassment campaign.

He was also charged with violating the code of conduct and ethical standards for public officials under Republic Act 6713.

Also similarly charged with the city mayor was the late city treasurer Visitacion B. Acero. However, with the death of Acero, the charges against her are automatically dropped.

The criminal and administrative complaint against the mayor stems from his harassments against a taxpayer, the Bohol Chronicle Radio Corporation. - the bohol chronicle

An attempt to investigate into the P20-million unliquidated cash advances at City Hall could just end up foiled by administration bloc councilors even with mounting criticisms for transparency of the city government's financial transactions.

Thus says City Vice Mayor Jose Antonio Veloso as he hinted at signs of "another attempt to cover-up the probe on the questioned unliquidated cash advances" of city officials and employees.

During last Friday's session, there was no discussion on the P20 million unliquidated cash advances as the public awaits Kagawad Oscar Glovasa, chairman of the committee on appropriations to open the investigation of the 2008 COA Audit Report.

According to Veloso, he expects the city council's majority, allied with the city mayor, to take inquiries on the cash advances into "diversionary turns" until the public gets tired of discussing about the issue. - the Bohol Chronicle

HOW PRICELESS IS YOUR UNFAILING LOVE!  BOTH HIGH
  AND LOW AMONG MEN FIND REFUGE IN THE SHADOW
  OF YOUR WINGS.
                                ( PSALM 36:7 *NIV )
      You, my friend, are very important to God!   He loves you
  more than written words can say.   So today I will share a
  poem that I received from one of our members, for it states
  it much better than I.   It is titled:

                                 The U in JesUs

               Before U were thought of or time had begun,
               God even stuck U in the name of His Son.
               And each time U pray, you'll see it's true
               You can't spell out JesUs and not include U.
               You're a pretty big part of His wonderful name,
               For U, He was born; that's why He came.
               And His great love for U is the reason He died.
               It even takes U to spell crUcified.
               Isn't it thrilling and splendidly grand,
               He rose from the dead, with U in His plan?

               The stones split away, the gold trUmpet blew,
               and this word resUrrection is spelled with a U.
               When JesUs left earth at His Upward ascension,
               He felt there was one thing He just had to mention.
               "Go into the world and tell them it's true,
               That I love them all - Just like I love U."
               So many great people are spelled with a U,
               Don't they have a right to know JesUs too?
               It all depends now on what U will do,
               He'd like them to know, But it all starts with U.
                                                --- Author Unknown

      Therefore , why not tell others about His Great
  Love, and share with them all He has done for "U" as well.
  For: I TELL YOU THERE WILL BE MORE REJOICING IN
  HEAVEN OVER ONE SINNER WHO REPENTS THEN
  OVER NINETY-NINE RIGHTEOUS PERSONS WHO DO
  NOT NEED TO REPENT.  Amen.         ( LUKE 15:7 )

Receiving reports that there are still many drugstores in the province which have not complied with the mandatory price cuts on drugs covered by the Cheaper Medicines Law, provincial lawmakers yesterday agreed to closely monitor compliance of pharmacies to the new measure.

Likewise, the Sangguniang Panlungsod will also initiate dialogues with drugstore owners, physicians and municipal health officers to urge them to fully implement the Generics Law which was envisioned to extend affordable and effective medicines to the public.

In an interview with the Chronicle, Vice Gov. Julius Caesar Herrera said he already tasked a team to check whether drugstores are following the imposition of the price cut under the Cheaper Medicines Law.       

HERRERA

The Department of Health began implementing the Cheaper Medicines Law last Saturday placing 21 prescription drugs under a 50-percent mandatory price reduction.         

"We would like to stress also that generic medicines should be accessible by the public although some selected branded drugs are already made cheaper by the new law," Herrera said.

According to the vice governor, doctors should prescribe to consumers the generic equivalent of medicines which are generally more affordable.

During yesterday's SP session, a joint committee headed by Board Member Cesar Tomas Lopez was created to investigate if pharmacies abide by the Cheaper Medicine Law.

Lopez, a physician, said the Boholano consumers should now start availing of the half-priced medicines in local drugstores.

Lopez said he will be inviting to a dialogue representatives of the Bohol Medical Society, drugstore owners, chiefs of government hospitals, municipal health officers, the Department of Trade and Industry and the Bureau of Food and Drugs to discuss the implementation of the Cheaper Medicines Law and to strengthen the Generics Law. - the Bohol Chronicle

By the Bohol Chronicle

The Provincial Health Office (PHO) said it has contained the spread of the Influenza A(H1N1) virus which downed more than 90 students in Lawis Elementary School in the town of Inabanga since last week.

Health officials here have been monitoring the situation as this could be the second community-level outbreak in the country of the dreaded flu.

Classes in all levels at the said elementary school will remain suspended until Friday to make sure that students will not transmit the disease to others.

Dr. Reymoses Cabagnot bared over "Inyong Alagad" of Station dyRD that the outbreak started with one student who recently came from Negros. The said student, who is from neighboring barangay Santo Niño already exhibited flu-like symptoms.

Other students who came into contact with the first victim also got sick with flu which immediately spread to other students.

Swab samples were immediately taken from 15 students which all turned out positive with Influenza A(H1N1).         

According to Cabagnot, there were about 90 other students in the same school who exhibited flu-like symptoms which prompted health authorities to take precautionary measures as they can all be presumed positive of the virus based on the 100-percent result of swab tests taken from the 15 students.

One parent of the afflicted students, whose children are enrolled in Grade 3 and Grade 6, said her kids experienced high fever and coughing. They were given medicines by the local health unit and recovered after three days.

Due to very limited space at the Dagohoy Municipal Hospital in Poblacion Inabanga, most of the afflicted students were placed in self-quarantine at their homes and were given anti-flu medication and vitamins, Cabagnot said.

The school was closed since Wednesday last week and will remain so, until after the 10-day observation period of the students who were found positive of the virus. This is also to check if the patients still exhibit flu symptoms.

Most of the students however have fully recovered based on regular advisories from the Inabanga Municipal Health Office.

Bohol Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Elpidio Jala said Lawis Elementary School will re-open for classes on Monday, August 24.

Cabagnot likewise assured the public that there is no cause for the public to panic but stresses the importance of personal hygiene.

The fatality rate of A(H1N1) is less than 1 in every 1,000 who are afflicted with the disease.

There have been two previous cases of the flu here in the province, one involving a pregnant woman. Both patients have fully recovered.

If only to allay fears of being displaced, the Capitol re-engineering scheme is something to be excited about, said administrator Atty. Tomas Abapo.

The re-engineering has stirred Capitol rank and file over speculations that civil service protected employees may not even be spared from the employee movements.

Earlier, Governor Erico Aumentado and Vice Governor Julius Caesar Herrera have pushed for the re-engineering to streamline government operations and make a lean and mean government operations as well as keep the needed savings to fund other development initiatives.

Now, with the elections nearing, employees have started to doubt about its realization in as much as the decision to push through with the plan may dent on political standings of elected officials in the Capitol.

Over these, the provincial Administrator said the plan is now on its finishing touches at the office of Capitol’s Human Resource Management and Development Office.

Reporting during the weekly The Governor’s Reports, Atty. Abapo reasoned out that the re-engineering has nothing to be apprehensive about.

He said that re-engineering is a move to put the employees rightfully in each place in the organization.

Insider sources at the Capitol also bare that indeed, there are employees in whose jobs are duplications of other tasks, making Capitol be saddled with too much bureaucracy.

Employees who are now saddled with too much job while earning little compared to those of the same office who have relatively lesser work load and get paid better need to be equalized, the sources agree.

To make the offer even more appealing, the provincial administrator added that they have packed exciting early retirement packages for retireable employees willing to bow out of service, in line with the reorganization plan.

The Capitol early retirement package is different from the GSIS plans employees get upon their termination in service, according to him. (PIA)

The Commission on Elections spurned the police proposal for a total gun ban this coming elections saying the plan may even be a violation of the Omnibus Election Code.

In an apparent attempt to advance the drive to account for all the loose firearms as well as curb gun-related election violence mostly involving loose firearms, the Philippine National Police submitted the proposal, reported Bohol Police Director Edgardo Ingking during a recent press conference.

According to the PNP, the 2007 elections had 279 election related violence, and 178 of them involve the use of loose firearms.

The PNP drive is also based upon the National Fire-arms Control Policy, which President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo signed into law just a few weeks ago.

The COMELEC however have other ideas.

Junking the plan, the COMELEC, in reports said, that the PNP proposal may endanger the lives of some government officials and very important persons.

The government poll commissions also added that the proposal may even violate of the Omnibus Election Code.

Article 22, sections 261 paragraph P entitles the COMELEC to assign any public officer who shall supervise the election to carry a gun to preserve peace and enforce the law.

Paragraph T of the same law also allows the implementation or at most three armed bodyguards after COMELEC deliberations and finding the life and security of the candidate is under jeopardy.

Instead of getting frustrated however by the spurned proposal, Police Chief Director General Jesus Versoza said the PNP is going to come up with other strategies to plug on the election related violence especially those involving loose firearms.

As of press time, Police General Versoza has accordingly convened the PNP Task Force Honest Orderly and Peaceful Elections (HOPE) in preparations for their meeting with the COMELEC to map out general security measures especially on gun control.

The PNP wants to solicit advice from the poll body on what is the best gun control measure that can be implemented for the upcoming elections. (PIA)

 Don’t look now but the cheaper medicine law may not be the cure all to the woes of high medicine prices.

Called as “Universally Accessible Cheaper and Quality Medicines Act of 2008”.or Republic Act 9502, the new law as hyped,  may not be the solution to the nagging problem of high prices of drugs and medicines.

As soon as the new law was enforced starting yesterday, varied reactions from both sectors were observed even as local pharmacies  have found scapegoats and of all peopleâ€"local doctors.

An owner (identity withheld) of a chain of pharmacy in the city said that doctors are at fault in the soaring of medicine prices. They issue prescriptions on certain medicines that are costly so that they can have “commissions” from those medicines in connivance with the promoters.

The owner, in an interview, cited an example that doctors are still practicing “endorsements” for “perks” yesterday in the pharmacy. The owner discovered that a certain drug prescription presented by a customer appeared on it but another was written at the back with an instruction that the one written at the back should be bought instead of the other with lower tag price.

But the owner did not identify the doctor nor the customer.

The owner explained that it used to be that medical representatives that carry out the promotions and monitoring of their drugs can acquire a car after just two years. But now they can hardly get one within five years because some doctors are reluctant to endorse for fear of prosecution once caught.

The owner stressed that the law is good and favors its implementation but admitted the pharmacy may be affected by the price adjustments.

Senior board member of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan Cesar Tomas Lopez, a doctor by profession, said big pharmaceutical companies spent huge sums for what he called “wine and dine” perks given to the doctors to get endorsements of the medicines they produced and marketed.

Rep. Adam Relson Jala said the law, which was concurred by him and his colleagues, will ultimately provide the consumers with an affordable but of quality medicines especially the essential ones.

He admitted however that drug firms may be affected by the lower prices of drugs imposed by the law at half the price. But what is important, he said, is that it will benefit the general public.

In a separate interview, Catigbian Mayor Bert Salinas, president of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines Bohol chapter, also said that the said law is a “blessing from heaven.”

For its part, Mercury Drugs here through its manager Gina Manimantan said that the company will just follow the law with the support of the people.

In fact, she said in an exclusive interview, that the company is implementing the discount privilege the senior citizens as long as the latter would comply with the requirements.

In a recent interview, party-list Bayan Muna Rep. Teddy Casino said that there are still loopholes in the said law because it gives the President to issue such pricing of the medicines.

Section 17 provides that “the President of the Philippines , upon recommendation of the Secretary of the Department of Health, shall have the power to impose maximum retail prices over any or all drugs and medicines as enumerated in Section 23.”

Casino said that there are some limitations of the law that do not benefit the poor. The said law may be effective only if supported by local producers. There should be a national drug development program that would assist in the development of the local initiatives for medicine.

The list of drugs and medicines that are subject to price regulation provided by Section 23 include the following: “(a) All drugs and medicines indicated for treatment of chronic illnesses and life threatening conditions, such as, but not limited to, endocrine disorders, e.g., diabetes mellitus; gastrointestinal disorders, e.g., peptic ulcer; urologic disorders, e.g., benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH); cardiovascular diseases, e.g., hypertension; pulmonary diseases, e.g., pulmonary tuberculosis (PTB), asthma; auto-immune diseases, e.g., systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE); skin diseases, e.g., psoriasis; neuro-psychiatric disorders; other infectious diseases, e.g., human immunodeficiency virus-acquired immune deficiency syndrome (HIV-AIDS); and other conditions such as organ transplants and neoplasm; (b) Drugs and medicines indicated for prevention of diseases, e.g., vaccines, immunoglobulin, anti-sera; (c) Drugs and medicines indicated for prevention of pregnancy, e.g., oral contraceptives; (d) Anesthetic agents; (e) Intravenous fluids; (f) Drugs and medicines that are included in the Philippine National Drug Formulary (PNDF) Essential Drug List; and (g) All other drugs and medicines which, from time to time, the Secretary of the Department of Health determines to be in need of price regulation.”

Section 24 of the law prohibits “any manufacturer, importer, trader, distributor, wholesaler, retailer, or any person engaged in any method of disposition of drugs and medicines to engage in acts of price manipulation such as hoarding, profiteering, or illegal combination or forming cartel, as defined under Section 5 of Republic Act No. 7581, otherwise known as the Price Act, and all other acts committed in restraint of trade.”

If found violating this provision the penalty of imprisonment for a period of not less than five (5) years nor more than fifteen (15) years or shall be imposed a fine of not less than One hundred thousand pesos (Php100,000.00) nor more than Ten million pesos (Php10,000,000.00), at the discretion of the court.  The court may also order the suspension or revocation of its license to operate (LTO), professional or business license as provided  for under Section 25.

  “Whenever any act of illegal price manipulation of any drug and medicine subject to price regulation is committed by a juridical person, its officials or employees, or in case of a foreign corporation or association, its agent or representative in the Philippines who are responsible for the violation, shall be held liable therefor.” (RVO)

By Loy Palapos
Sunday Post

      She took up BSN (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) when there was still no school of Nursing in Bohol, when the selection process for those who dreamed to wear the starched white caps was like passing a thread through the eye of the needle, when nursing students stayed in a dormitory and were subjected to intensive training and strict discipline.

      The setting was Silliman University of Dumaguete City. There were almost 200 aspirants who went though the screening process to win a berth in the School of Nursing. Edyll Lim was one of them. Only 29 were taken in; only 25 graduated. When she took the National Nursing Board Examination in 1959, she topped them all over the Philippines. This despite the fact that she considered herself an “ordinary student”.

      Fidelita Lim, BSN, worked at Chong Hua Hospital in 1961; and, to be near his parents and relatives in Balilihan, transferred to the Bohol Provincial Hospital in 1962. That same year she went to Rochester, Minnesota where she was employed at the St. Mary’s Hospital-Mayo Clinic, and later moved to Mt. Sinai Hospital in Chicago, Illinois. Not content with a Bachelor’s degree, she took up Master of Science in Nursing at the Loyola University, then taught Medical-Surgical Nursing at Loyola University, University of Wisconcin, and George Mason University in Virginia.

      While pursuing her dreams, she married Dr. Neil Levy, Ph.D. in Pharmacology. They have 3 daughters: Deanne has a BS-Agriculture from the University of Wisconsin, and is now in the US Department of State. Oxford, England; Liatriz finished BS-Journalism, and is now connected with the Bank of America, Albuquerque, New Mexico; Ulani has a BS-Environmental Science, and works in the Veterans’ Affairs, Peoria, Illinois.

      Edyll Levy has traveled all over the world: Holland, Estonia, Germany, Russia, China, Mexico, Canada, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Spain, the Bahamas, England, etc. And she comes home to Bohol occasionally.

      This time, she is in Bohol for the TBTK. In the last week of August she will be in Dumaguete City. It’s a homecoming. The Boholana Board Topnotcher is attending the Golden jubilee of the Silliman University School of Nursing. 

      This interview took place at ICM last July 22 (Bohol Charter Day). It was our first meeting, and I was readily impressed by her innate beauty and eloquence. I could imagine that, during her salad days, she must have been the inspiration of countless man who adored feminine beauty and charm.         

LMP: Did you come to Bohol to be with TBTK?

FLL: I have four reasons to come this year, one is TBTK; and one is for the  fiesta of Balilihan this July 16. The Balilihanons that are working, or  staying overseas came this year to hold a free dinner for the people of  Balilihan. We gave donations to the church. The fourth reason is that, I  am going to  attend the Jubilee of the School of Nursing in Silliman  University, Dumaguete City.   

LMP: When will that be?

FLL: That will be in August 23rd to 28th.

LMP: For all of these reasons for coming here, which one is the most fulfilling?

FLL: I think it will be Jubilee of my graduation from college. I am full of  nostalgia coming home to my Alma Mater.

LMP: Since you were abroad, is this your first time to come back to Silliman?

FLL: No. We went there in 2001 for the celebration of its 100 year anniversary  as a university.

LMP: Is this Golden Jubilee you have for the nursing course?

FLL: Yes.

LMP: Can you give as your idea about TBTK as a movement? Is it something  significant?

FLL: For Boholanos, it’s because of the missions that they fulfill. So, I think it is  a big help to Bohol, and for the  participants like me. It is a chance to  meet old friends. I  think that is the biggest effect of TBTK… the  reunion…

LMP: There are already 4 TBTK; do you intend to come back for TBTK 2012?

FLL: Fortunately for me, TBTK coincides with the fiesta of Balilihan. It’s  likely  that I will come back every TBTK.

LMP: For you to come back to your hometown for the fiesta, it must be  very  important which is not shared by other Filipinos from  other provinces.  How important this fiesta to you?

FLL: I heard from the priest mentioned that there was somebody from  Davao  who told Father Silagan that even though they won’t hold fiesta  anymore, can’t go to church in July 16, but still they want to come  home  to Balilihan. The Balilihanons celebrate fiesta in different places, not  just here in the Philippines. It is important for us to come here; it is the  reason to meet other Balilihanons.

LMP: A sort of a reunion?

FLL: Yes.

LMP: Is that a characteristic that is very Boholano?

FLL: I think it is.

LMP: And you also do the same thing when you are abroad… like Boholanos  gathering together?

FLL: We always gather together, we have what we called BOGWAS   Boholanos of Greater Washington.

LMP: Who is the President now?

FLL: Lately, I have not been in contact with BOGWAS because I had a major  surgery.

LMP: Is this the same organization that Neneng Corales was a member?

FLL: Neneng Corales was one of the founders of BOGWAS.

LMP: So, this organization is represented in TBTK now?

FLL: It is.

LMP: Among the activities of TBTK, which one would you like to be in as a  participant?

FLL: Well, I attended the reunion of Bohol Provincial Hospital because I was  once a member of the staff. 

LMP: Let’s talk about this affair at Silliman University, what do you expect when  you have your reunion with your Alma Mater?

FLL: I expect to see some classmates I’ve never seen in 50 years, I hope they  will come.

LMP: When you were studying at Silliman, who was the President?

FLL: It was President Ruiz, the first Filipino President of Silliman.

LMP: What specific year was that?

FLL: 1959.

LMP: How was the place during that time?

FLL: Very quiet, like Tagbilaran back in the ‘50s.

LMP: There are people who make a comparison between Dumaguete  inhabitants and other cities. They say that Dumaguete is more intellectual  compared to others.

FLL: Because the school is the main hub of the city. Silliman and Dumaguete  are closely identified with each other.

LMP: You left the Philippines in order to work abroad. Is it for a greener  pasture?

FLL: No, during our time, my main reason was to see the United States. 

LMP: Did you participate in the Exchange Program?

FLL: Yes.

LMP: But you stayed there after that?

FLL: Yes, because I got married. To Dr, Neil Levy, a Ph. D. in Pharmacology.

LMP: How was your stay these numbers of years? Is it something that is very  fulfilling as far is your direction in life is concerned?

FLL: Living in the United States, gives you more opportunity to enhance your  own life. It is not difficult to earn money so you have time to spend for  yourself.

LMP: Did you have any problem adjusting to the climate?

FLL: I had no problem at all, especially at my work as a nurse. When I went  there, it was very easy to work there compared to here. Everything is  easy in the United States, especially if you have good training here and  you know the principles of nursing.     

      LMP: Let’s go to your family life. Your husband is an American. Did you have any problem with cultural barriers?

FLL: Well, there was a slight problem especially on food, but luckily my  husband eats all kinds of food.

LMP: And you have a cook?

FLL: Yes. My only problem is he won’t eat “ginamos” and “buwad”.

LMP: Let’s talk about your children; they were born in the States, raised in the  States. Are there traits of being Filipino left in them?

FLL: Very little.

LMP: So, they are totally Americanized?

FLL: Yes, because like my niece… she has a daughter who was born there and  she taught her child the Visayan dialect, so the child can speak Bisaya. I  never do that because when my children came I was still learning how to  speak  English.

LMP: Have they come to the Philippines?

FLL: Yes, my middle daughter went to school in Silliman for 1 ½ years and she  does speak Visayan.

LMP: But you mentioned only some Filipino traits that are left.

FLL: It is really not difficult to adjust, if you are open minded it is not a  problem.

LMP: Have your children decided to also live there and only come to visit the  Philippines once in a while?

FLL: Yes, they have their jobs there.

LMP: How many grandchildren do you have now?

FLL: I have three grandchildren.

LMP: And how are they? Are there traces of being a Filipino?

FLL: I have two grandchildren who have six inherited blood: Filipino, Chinese,  Native American, Jewish, and Puerto Rican.

LMP: You mentioned that your children retained your family name instead of  using the family name of their husbands.

FLL: It’s for career proficiency. Once you start your career, it is just a choice  that you make.

LMP: Is this supposed to be made with the consent of the husband? Here in the  Philippines, no husband would like to have his wife called by some other  name except his own.

FLL: I don’t know why we do that; because in Spain the wife always retains  her family name.

LMP: Let’s talk about politics. What have you heard of the Philippines about the  political situation?

FLL: I’ve heard that there is still a corruption. I heard the priest two days ago  preaching something about graft and corruption, and the priest knew  about standard authority. So, I’m sure it is no secret, everybody knows  about it.

LMP: It’s ugly. Is there a way from your own point of view to give a remedy for  that situation?

FLL: Well, I’m not a political person.

LMP: But from the point of view of an ordinary citizen, a Filipino living abroad.

FLL: Of course, it is very different. Out in the US they also have the Pork  Barrel. But I think it goes to the public, so if you are an influential  Congressman or Senator you got a huge Pork Barrel. But spent nicely.

LMP: There are many Filipinos who go abroad everyday, in fact according to the  record 5,000 Filipinos fly out of the country everyday including Sunday not  counting those who use the backdoor. But then they come home, just like  in your case.

FLL: Basically, I think once you get older it is easier to live here because out  there you have to stay in a nursing home… it will cost P7, 000 dollars a  month. Here, you could have somebody to take care of you.

LMP: Are you planning along that line, staying here for good?

FLL: I have a house in Balilihan, it is possible for me to stay here but I  think  that Bohol should think of a good medical plan. Because the people  coming are older and they don’t want to go to Cebu. Yet, no matter what,  I am still a Boholana.

      There are many Boholano achievers who are left unsung. Edyll Lim-Levy is one of them. As far I know, she is the only Boholano who topped the Philippine Nursing Board Exam. We have a lot of top-ten placers, but there’s only one who made it as “Numero Uno”.

      Life for her has gone full cycle. She has recognized some of the progress she has observed her own province; but she still hopes more changes would take place. For somebody who has personally seen the various cities of the whole globe, she has singled out our need to have a more responsive government bureaucracy. She and her family may all be American citizens, but deep in her she will remain a true Boholana.   

Two men, one American and an Indian were sitting in a bar drinking shot after shot.

The Indian man said to the American,"You know my parents are forcing me to get married to this so called homely girl from a village whom I haven't even met once.

We call this arranged marriage.I don't want to marry a woman whom I don't love...I told them that openly and now have a hell lot of family problems."

The American said, "Talking about love marriages... I'll tell you my story...

I married a widow whom I deeply loved and dated for 3 years.

"After a couple of years, my father fell in love with my step-daughter and so my father became my son-in-law and I became my father's father-in-law.

My daughter is my mother and my wife my grandmother.

More problems occurred when I had a son. My son is my father's brother and so he is my uncle. Situations turned worse when my father had a son. Now my father's son i.e. my brother is my grandson.

Ultimately, I have become my own grand father and I am my own grandson.

And you say you have family problems.. ?

The offices of German luxury carmaker Porsche have been raided by federal prosecutors probing the alleged market manipulation of Volkswagen shares.

Porsche had built up a stake of 51% in VW in an attempt to launch a takeover of Europe's biggest carmaker.

The two have subsequently agreed to a merger, ending months of bitter feuding, which will take place in 2011.

The carmaker denied the accusations and said that it would co-operate fully with the prosecutors.

Failed takeover

"On Thursday morning, officers from Stuttgart prosecutors entered the company's offices with search warrants.

"The prosecutors suspect a breach of public disclosure requirements and market manipulation," Porsche said.

Under former chief executive Wendelin Wiedeking, who resigned last month, Porsche built up a majority stake in the much larger VW, but failed in its attempt to force a full takeover.

As a result, the carmaker was saddled with huge debts.

Porsche announced last week that the state of Qatar would take a major stake in the company. - bbc news

The first-ever video advertisement will be published in a traditional paper magazine in September.

The video-in-print ads will appear in select copies of the US show business title Entertainment Weekly.

The slim-line screens - around the size of a mobile phone display - also have rechargeable batteries.

The chip technology used to store the video - described as similar to that used in singing greeting cards - is activated when the page is turned.

Each chip can hold up to 40 minutes of video.

The first clips will preview programmes from US TV network CBS and show adverts by the drinks company Pepsi. - bbc news

By TJ Burgonio
Philippine Daily Inquirer

Government officials on Thursday scrambled to deny reports that the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (Philhealth) was on the brink of bankruptcy, and assured its 79 million members that it was financially stable.

Contrary to the reports, Philhealth’s net income even doubled from P5 billion in 2001 to P10 billion in 2008, and has a reserve fund of P63 billion, Budget Secretary Rolando Andaya said.

“Philhealth is far from bankruptcy,’’ he told reporters in a Malacañang briefing.

Melinda Mercado, Philhealth SVP for operations, agreed with Andaya. “We’re able to pay premium. It’s strong and stable, don’t worry,’’ she said in the joint briefing with Andaya.

Nerissa Santiago, Philhealth VP for actuary, told a Senate hearing Wednesday that the national government owed the government corporation some P19.2 billion in unpaid contributions to members.

Sen. Loren Legarda, chair of the health committee that heard a bill providing insurance for Filipinos, wondered how the government racked up such debt
to cause Philhealth’s bankruptcy.

Andaya clarified that per Philhealth’s computation, the DBM owed P9 billion to the corporation. But per DBM’s computation, it owed the corporation a smaller amount.

“And this is now the subject of talks,’’ he said of the figure. “They have their own computation, we have our own computation.’’

According to Mercado, the DBM remitted some P388 million in 2006, and P85 million in 2007, and some P610 million has been appropriated from the 2009 national budget for release to Philhealth.

“Those are projections or assumptions, assuming there’s no effort to increase collections,” she said of the reported P19.2 billion arrears by the national government to Philhealth.

The national government pays a counterpart premium to Philhealth for government employees.

Liskula Cohen is a Canadian-born model, best known for her appearances in fashion magazines such as Vogue, Elle, and Cleo. When she discovered that a blog called Skanks in NYC, hosted on Google’s Blogger, has been referring to her as “skank” and “old hag,” she decided to press Google to reveal the identity of the blogger through court, and the court has now decided in her favor.

One quote is enough to show the nature of the blog: “How old is this skank? 40 something? She’s a psychotic, lying, whoring, still going to clubs at her age, skank.” However, the blogger’s lawyer argued that these comments are his opinions and hyperbole â€" trash talk, if you will â€" but Manhattan Supreme Court Justice Joan Madden decided that “the thrust of the blog is that [Cohen] is a sexually promiscuous woman,” and that Cohen is entitled to sue the blogger for defamation.

This also means that Google will have to reveal the identity of the blogger in question; an important move that will set a precedent for future cases such as this one. The blogger in question has, without a doubt, been very offensive towards Cohen, as can be seen in the above quote. However, as we all know, the internet is full of offensive comments and broad negative statements of all kinds. On the upside, this decision will make people think twice about posting offensive posts and comments about someone, as they’re no longer protected by a shroud of anonymity. On the other hand, it might trigger a flood of similar lawsuits, perhaps for trivial reasons, which can in turn have serious implications on everyone’s online privacy. - Mashable

By JUNE S. BLANCO

The Maynilad Water Services, Inc. that provides the water needs of half of Metro Manila recently updated Gov. Erico Aumentado on its ongoing feasibility study for the development of Bohol’s bulk water supply project.

  In a recent meeting at the Century Park Hotel in Malate, Manila, Maynilad President Rogelio Singson presented to Aumentado the results of the fieldworks, issues and concerns on the technical and social aspect of the project as well as “moving forward activities” conducted by his team in the biggest project that the company is undertaking outside of its franchise area of western Metro Manila.

  The study area in Bohol covers the towns of Cortes, Maribojoc, Antequera, Balilihan, San Isidro, Catigbian, Baclayon, Alburquerque, Loay and Loboc as well as Tagbilaran City and the two towns in the resort island of Panglao â€" Dauis and Panglao. Collectively known as Metro Tagbilaran, these towns and city will also be the project’s service area.

  The study eyes the Loboc River, the Abatan River in Maribojoc with its tributaries of Inambakan and Sampilangons River in San Isidro as potential sources of water supply.

  This early, Singson said his team observed that the Abatan River flow declined compared to when they first observed it last June. The proposed source is in Barangay Dorol, Balilihan. Initial studies show however that it could be not sustainable to supply water to 12 towns and the city.

  On the other hand, while the Loboc River flow also declined, the baseflow in July was still sufficient for bulk water diversion. The proposed source is in Barangay Gotozon in Loboc, which could be sustainable for the immediate future’s need.

  If both rivers are tapped as sources, the study shows that these would be sustainable to supply Metro Tagbilaran’s need although the system would require more infrastructures and higher operating costs.

  Meanwhile, if both rivers are tapped as sources but with individual sources dedicated to San Isidro and Catigbian, this scheme would be sustainable to supply 10 towns and the city only, requires individual source development for San Isidro and Catigbian, more infrastructures and higher operating costs.

  With both rivers tapped as sources, the system would require approximately 105 kilometers of pipelines.

  Except for Dauis and Panglao towns that were “hostile for fear that their business interests of water delivery might be adversely affected, the rest of the towns considered the formation of a waster district as an alternative support to the Bohol Bulk Water Supply Project, the update showed.

  Tagbilaran City already has formed its water district.

  Meanwhile, Aumentado said the Bohol Water Utilities, Inc. (BWUI), the current water supplier of urban areas in Tagbilaran City is also conducting its own study to tap Upper Abatan River to augment or even replace the groundwater it is using now.

  While it supplies mainly the water needs of urban Tagbilaran, it now harnesses to a large extent groundwater drawn from wells drilled in nearby Corella town after finding out that most wells in the city are now beset with saltwater intrusion.

  Bohol Water also has tunnel drilling technology through which its main water pipeline from the source can pass through instead of going the circuitous way â€" along the national highway, thereby saving on cost.

  On the other hand, Aumentado also said Sta. Clara Power Corp. that now operates the Tontonan Mini-Hydroelectric Plant in Gotozon has also been studying the possibility of supplying bulk water to the towns and the city â€" but secondary only to its main interest of developing and supplying hydroelectric energy to the province. 

Catigbian: becoming A lakbay-aral mecca
By Councilor Doris Dinorog-Obena

      Tourism means jobs, according to Tourism Secretary Ace Durano.

      This is the reason why the local government unit laid out its blueprint for tourism development in the municipality.

“Branding” Catigbian

      The most effective strategy for Catigbian in terms of attracting investors and tourists is “branding” or “marketing” the town as a lakbay-aral site for local governance initiatives.

      It can be recalled that Catigbian received the “2008 Best Pamilihan ng Bayan” award in Bohol and prior to that, it also bagged the “2006 Third Best Pamilihan” in Region 7.  All for a post-war building that has since been transformed into a very efficient and viable business center.

      Catigbian also boasts of having the most modern and the largest Livestock Auction Market in the Visayas. The World Bank-CBRMP granted the town the chance to go big after getting a Loan Facility in year 2006 for the ambitious structure and its succedding operations.

Lakbay-Aral Sites

      The LGU has had a promising number of visitors ever since.

      Other than the color-coded sectioning, the digital weighing scale of large and small ruminants in the Livestock Auction Market and other features of the Public Market, the newly renovated Municipal Hall has gained numerous praises from visitors owing to the fact that it is spotlessly clean and tastefully unique in its set up.

      More than its physical appearance, the municipio deserves a second look because of its smiling and accommodating personnel and its efficient service.  Professionalism, like what Mayor Salinas always impresses from every government servant.

      The peoples’ hall’s main feature is the air-conditioned People’s Lounge for taxpayers and guests. The lounges is now furnished with a television set and two restrooms at the first floor for male and female.

      Other lakbay-aral sites are the Pick and Pay Demonstration Farm and the newly constructed 14-Million Municipal Health Center with Lying-In Clinic located at barangay Poblacion Weste just along the town’s main road and national highway.

Caves

      To cater to other special interests, the Municipal Tourism Council has explored several caves for nature lovers’ experience.

      Opened for extreme outdoor experience are Candumayao Cave, Cantalina Cave, Bongbong Cave, Haguilanan Cave, Sinakayanan Cave and Baang Cave.

      The Sangguniang Bayan has also passed Municipal Ordinance No. 1 Series of 2008 and Municipal Ordinance No. 5, Series of 2006 to regulate and properly manage the caves within its territiorial jurisdiction.

Dagook Falls

      As an active Chairperson of the Abatan River Tourism Development Council, Mayor Roberto L. Salinas, PN (Ret) is spearheading workshops in the preparation of the mega tourism project in the first district of Bohol with the initiative from the Office of Congressman Edgardo M. Chatto, DTI, PROCESS Foundation and other government agencies. 

      Other member municipalities are: Balilihan, Antequera, Maribojoc and Cortes.

      For Catigbian, the flagship project under the Abatan cluster is the Development of the Dagook Falls in Poblacion Weste which is called “The Abatan Upstream Eco-Tour”. 

      Projects worth more than millions are already in the pipeline for the construction of necessary support facilities. 

      The local government has plans to develop several amenities within the area for the Catigbian Adventure Course. Activities like rappelling, via pirata, monkey walk, zip line and spelunking would surely attract the attention of the able-bodied adventurers. Up next.

Katigbawan Festival

      The people of Catigbian are getting excited with all of these plans because they know these would all more job opportunities for Catigbianons.

      To educate and encourage the people to take part in these projects, the local leaders initiated the “Katigbawan Festival” to feature and promote tourism and investment potentials of the town namely: Livestock Auction Market, Cave Exploration and Livestock raising.

      Katigbawan is a feast for human and spiritual satisfaction from the Visayan word Katagbawan”.   

      It is also a combination of the words katigbi, tigbaw and kabawan.  The root word katigbi is the origin of the word Catigbian which is a specie of grass abundant in the town.

      Tigbaw is another word for caves while Kabawan is Visayan for Carabao Auction Market which Catigbian is known for in the province since the early 50’s.

      The festival started in 2005 to commemorate the foundation day of Catigbian.  The Sangguniang Bayan has passed Municipal Ordinance No. 8, Series of 2005 institutionalizing the Katigbawan Festival celebration every third week of June of each year.

      This year’s Katigbawan Festival will be the town’s 60th Diamond Jubilee Celebration.  That is why aside from the usual Agri-Fair and Street Dancing, there will be the Diamond Jubilee King and Queen Coronation and the Tanda Kaliwat Catigbianon (see program).

Tanda Kaliwat Catigbianon

      For sustainable eco-tourism, the local team for the festival has started the tedious task of establishing a data bank of all Catigbianons all over the world and then inviting them to come in an activity dubbed as the “Tanda Kaliwat Catigbianon”.

      It is hoped that this year, Catigbianons will conduct family and school reunions in time for the Katigbawan Festival. 

      The activity and the Diamond Jubilee King and Queen is also a fund raising project for the existing Municipal Scholarship Program of the municipality.

One Town, One Product

      To complement these initiatives and to facilitate livelihood projects with the actual and projected increase in volume of tourists in the locality, the LGU has established the “One Town, One Product” or OTOP Center located within the public market complex.

      The center is in the process of finalizing a memorandum of agreement with the Mantacida Multi-Purpose Cooperative to sustain the management and operation of the OTOP Center.

      Members of some women’s organizations namely: Haguilanan Women’s Organization and Rizal Women’s Organization were already trained in Tapa Making and Meat Processing. 

      It has been known that Carabeef Tapa, Catigbian One-Town-One-Product product has a high demand from tourists who visit the town during their lakbay-aral activities and during the initial launching of the OTOP Center in the previous year’s Katigbawan Festival.

Katigbawan Resto

      The newest addition to Catigbian’s must-see sites is the Katigbawan Resto infront of the public market.

      Mayor Bertsal, in his eagerness to develop tourism, has placed his personal stake at the restaurant called “Katigbawan Resto”.

      The facility boasts of a VIP room for videoke enthusiasts and a perfect venue for watching world sports events live via Dream satellite.

      More than the entertainment, tourists and locals alike can have a taste of adobong kabaw, adobong manuk bisaya and papaitan nga kanding daily at the restaurant which can accommodate 100 guests at any given time.

Katigbawan Cultural Groups

      Dance Troupes of different schools in the municipality are now named Katigbawan Dance Troupe.

      The Candumayao Rondalla is now known as Katigbawan Rondalla.  There is also the Katigbawan Ukelele Lovers performing here.

      Yes, we do have some cultural groups already established here.

      As a matter of fact, the Sangguniang Bayan has authorized the hiring of Mr. Marianito Luspo of Holy Name University to train and create a theater group to present some cultural shows in time for the full operation of the Dagook Falls Development Project.

      The local government unit with stakeholders only need to sustain these cultural groups in the future.

Katigbawan delicacies, hotels. atbp

      For now, a hotel or hostel is still wanting in Catigbian.

      More than that the town has envisoned the need to develop local delicacies, which are potentials for the town.  Perhaps, in the near future, Catigbian will not only be known because of its festival, or the Livestock Auction Market or Carabeef Tapa but also for other delicacies…like the camote candies sold every Monday at the market.

      The Bienvenida Biloy tinunuang awang is truly delicious, the crispy fried pork of Felimon Maglajos is also something one can really recommend and of course, the Gabi Pie/Roll of Mrs. Avelina Gille has made visitors come back here in Catigbian.

      These are simple things that have the potential of making Catigbian better known ….there are no limits….

Talk about adding insult to injury: a burglar who stole a laptop and other properties from a woman’s house later logged into the victim’s Facebook account and bragged about the deed, complaining that the TV in the victim’s house wasn’t good enough to steal.

The property was stolen from Victoria Richardson, 42, who lives in Hove, UK. The burglar stole an iPhone, a Nintendo DS, a handbag, some cash and credit cards and a black Toshiba laptop. As if that wasn’t enough, Victoria later logged into her Facebook account, discovering that the thief had left several messages on her account. They read:

“on my new laptop”

“Listening to music on my new phone feels so good.”

“I have the laptop , phones ok but a bit scratched itll do, tv was rubbish so I left it, ds was a bonus, now to the porn shop, thankyou toshiba is my favourite make”.

“regards your night time burglar”.

This incident proves that an invasion of your online space can be just as traumatic as the invasion of your physical space. As Ms Richardson put it: “I felt very spooked. I have never felt like that before. It felt like they were rubbing my nose in it.” However, these despicable Facebook messages also prove that the thief is quite stupid. Leaving traces of his/her activity on a social networking site can only help the police trace them and bring them to justice. - Mashable

Earlier today, a Grand Jury indicted a U.S. man and his two co-conspirators for stealing 130 million bank card numbers in 2007. Albert Gonzales of Miami is charged with hacking and compromising major credit card hubs, including 7-Eleven, Heartland Payment Systems, and Hannaford Brothers.

According to the indictment, the men sold some of the numbers, which were used to make illegal withdrawals from multiple banks. They apparently got around the security of these systems with database injections that helped them intercept credit card transactions in real time.

Gonzales has already been indicted for similar crimes, according to The New York Times. Last year, he was indicted for the theft of 40 million credit cards from companies including Barnes & Noble, OfficeMax, Forever 21, and Boston Market. And even more interesting, in 2003 he was working with federal agents to identify his associates after he was arrested for hacking.

This is yet another reminder of how important it is to secure and monitor your credit cards, financial data, and passwords for any anomalies. This type of thing can happen to anybody. Always rotate your passwords and cancel your credit card if any unknown charges start appearing in your bank statement. - Mashable

A dog has been reunited with his owners more than nine years after going missing from his Essex home.

Kenny, a cross bichon frise, was found wandering alone in Epping Forest by a passer-by. His owners were traced using a microchip.

He was aged two when he went missing and the dog's owners presumed that he had been stolen.

Joshua Donnelly, Kenny's owner's son, said: "I had long since given up hope of ever seeing Kenny again."

He added: "I was overjoyed to be reunited after such a long time."

It is not known where Kenny spent his missing years.