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Dietary supplement is a product that contains vitamins, minerals, herbs or other botanicals, amino acids, enzymes, and/or other ingredients intended to supplement the diet. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has special labeling requirements for dietary supplements and treats them as foods, not drugs.

Manufacturers and distributors of dietary supplements and dietary ingredients are prohibited from marketing products that are adulterated or misbranded. That means that these firms are responsible for evaluating the safety and labeling of their products before marketing to ensure that they meet all the requirements of DSHEA and FDA regulations.

Wars of ancient history were about possessions, territory, power, control, family, betrayal, lover's quarrel, politics and sometimes religion.

But we are in the Modern era and supposedly more educated and enlightened .

Think about this. Don't just brush off these questions.

  • Why is RELIGION still involved in WARS? Isn't religion supposed to be about PEACE?
  • Ask yourself; What religion always campaign to have its religious laws be accepted as government laws, always involved in wars and consistently causing WARS, yet insists that it's a religion of peace?

WHY??

There are only two kinds of people who teach tolerance:
  1. The Bullies. They want you to tolerate them so they can continue to maliciously deprive you. Do not believe these bullies teaching tolerance, saying that it’s the path to prevent hatred and prejudice.
  2. The victims who are waiting for the right moment to retaliate. They can’t win yet, so they tolerate.

PCG defended 'M/Y Sarangani' from harassment -- Nolcom chief

by (PNA)

DCT/scs/PFN


MANILA — Despite being outnumbered and outsized by its foreign counterparts, the Philippine Coast Guard's "BRP Pampanga" (SAR-003) valiantly defended a National Museum-hired yacht against harassment at Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal by Chinese vessels, Northern Luzon Command head Lt. Gen. Anthony Alcantara said on Tuesday. Alcantara explained that this took place on April 14 when an unidentified Chinese vessel approached the "M/Y Sarangani" and demanded that the Filipino ship stop its mission which was to conduct an archeological survey in Panatag Shoal. "Upon receiving word of the harassment, BRP Pampanga positioned itself at the mouth of Panatag Shoal and thereby demonstrated to the Chinese vessels that it is willing to protect the M/Y Sarangani," the Nolcom chief said. Due to the efforts of BRP Pampanga, the M/Y Sarangani was able to complete its mission and departed from the area on April 20. "I think they were well taken care of by our Coast Guard when they were out there," Alcantara said.






Region 12 high-risk to climate change impact

by Bong S. Sarmiento


KORONADAL CITY (MindaNews/21 April) — Southwestern Mindanao is highly at risk in a changing climate condition, with increased rainfall and rising sea levels, an official warned on Friday. Herlita G. Caraan, National Statistical Coordination BoardRegion 12 chief, said that more rainfall, an increase in temperature and rising sea level would hit the area in the medium term (2020-2050). In a fact sheet, NSCB-12 warned of worse flooding, landslide and storm surges affecting hundreds of villages in the region as a result of climate change. Based on a mid-range scenario simulations by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), rainfall in Region 12 was predicted to increase in 2020 by as much as 14.8 percent and 15.6 percent by2050. The increased rainfall was projected to happen during the north-east monsoon season (December to February) and during the transition of seasons from September to November. “These periods will be wetter and with potential for increased flooding, storm surge and landslide,” Caraan said. According to the geo-hazard maps from the regional Mines and Geosciences Bureau, at least 300 barangays in the region are high-risk to flooding as they are located near major river tributaries and low land zones. TheMGB-12 also classified some 200 villages in elevated areas and those near sloppy areas as high-risk to landslides. Forty-eight coastal villages are vulnerable to storm surges while 26 other have high potential for tsunami, it added. Region12, also called the SOCCSKSARGEN region, consists of the provinces of South Cotabato, North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat and Sarangani and the cities of General Santos, Koronadal, Tacurong, Kidapawan and Cotabato. Temperatures are expected to increase across all four seasons though it would be much hotter during the summer season (March to May) across all provinces in the region, theNSCB-12 said. PAGASA further projected an annual mean temperature increase from the observed baseline by 0.9oC to 1.3oC in 2020 and from 1.9oC to 2.5oC in 2050 in Region 12, it said. Health authorities have warned that warmer temperatures would result to increase risks to infectious diseases like malaria, dengue fever, yellow fever and encephalitis. “More people will be vulnerable to cholera as algal blooms may occur more frequently. Red tide in coastal waters will become more frequent and widespread,”the report said.

For rising seawater, the NSCB-12, citing a Greenpeace report titled “The Philippines: A Climate Hotspot,“ said that an estimated 11,664,000 square meters of land in Region 12 will be vulnerable to a one-meter sea level rise. Areas most likely to be affected are coastal areas in Sarangani, SultanKudarat, General Santos City, including Cotabato City as 70 percent of the city’s total land area is below sea level, the NSCB-12 said. Ronald Flores, executive director of the Office of Civil Defense, urged the local government units in Region12 to put up their respective Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Offices (LDRRMO). The OCD has been conducting regional consultation for LGUs to effectively implement Republic Act 10121 or the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management of 2010. (Bong Sarmiento/MindaNews)

Mendoza: Why Pacquiao left Noynoy to join Binay

by Al S. Mendoza


FROM Lakas to NP, LP and now UNA. Those are the four political parties thus far for Manny Pacquiao.

Does that make Pacquiao a turncoat, a political butterfly?

The last Lakas stalwart was Ate Glue, the former president now serving as a representative from Pampanga.

During her nine-year reign at the Palace, Ate Glue’s regular visitor was Pacquiao.

It became almost customary for Pacquiao to drop by Ate Glue’s old residence by the riverbanks every time he came home from a conquest overseas.

When he first ran for congressman in GenSan in 2007, Pacquiao was under the Lakas banner.

Unfortunately, he lost to Darlene Antonino-Custodio.

Pacquiao next aimed his political guns in Sarangani, the land of birth of his wife, Jinkee.

In 2010, he won the lone congressional seat in Sarangani, running under Manny Villar’s Nacionalista Party.

But Villar lost to Noynoy Aquino, the standard bearer of the Liberal Party.

Not long after, Pacquiao switched camps again, moving over to Noynoy’s LP.

Observers said, Pacquiao “is so young, but so wise already to the ways of the political arena.”

You want political survival, you seek to secure favors from the powerful, join the ruling party: LP.

But, alas, the Noynoy-PacMan romance would prove to be short-lived.

Just very recently, Vice President Jojo Binay said Pacquiao has joined the UNA (United Nationalist Alliance).

UNA is an alliance forged between the PDP-Laban (Binay’s party when he defeated Mar Roxas for vice president in 2010) and Erap’s PMP (Partido ng Masang Pilipino).

“PacMan is our gubernatorial bet in Sarangani in the 2013 election,” said Binay, the UNA chieftain who is highly-touted as running for president in 2016.

Pacquiao’s fans have asked me: What might have prompted PacMan to bolt Noynoy’s LP?

I have a guess: PacMan felt he didn’t get any help from Noynoy regarding the boxing icon’s recent row with the taxman.

You might probably say, “What a flimsy reason.”

Excuse me, but to a guy like Pacquiao, friendship is really “walang iwanan,” or BFF if you will, as in “Best Friends Forever.”

The masa would almost always think that way.

5 foreign vessels enter shoal

by Alexis Romero


MANILA, Philippines - Three foreign vessels and two small boats have been spotted in Panatag (Scarborough) Shoal in addition to the two Chinese maritime vessels involved in a standoff with a lone Philippine Coast Guard ship.

Northern Luzon Command chief Lt. Gen. Anthony Alcantara said the three foreign vessels were sighted on Wednesday, the same day Philippine-commissioned vessel MT Sarangani left the area after conducting an archaeological survey. The vessel left Wednesday night.

Meanwhile, the current impasse has little or no effect on Filipino workers in China, Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz said.

“I think it’s the quality of our workers there who, despite political tensions, are just continuing their work,” Baldoz said.

“A summary report submitted to me said there are three vessels but these are not Filipino vessels. There are also outrigger boats outside and inside the lagoon,” Alcantara reported. He said they could not tell whether the small boats were of local or foreign origin. Alcantara clarified that the departure of the vessel had nothing to do with China’s demand for Philippine ships to leave the shoal.

“Perhaps their research has been completed. The ship was just commissioned by the National Museum,” he said.

It was the National Historical Commission of the Philippines which commissioned the Sarangani. Its passengers included nine French nationals and three employees of the National Museum.

Alcantara stressed, however, the situation in the area was stable and no unusual incidents were reported.

Masinloc, Zambales Mayor Desiree Edora said Zambales fishermen were now avoiding Panatag Shoal for fear of getting harassed or arrested by the Chinese or caught in an armed confrontation between Chinese and Filipino forces.

“My secretary interviewed the fishermen and it’s been a while since they sailed there because they are afraid that a confrontation might ensue,” she told dzMM radio reporter Edwin Sevidal.

Edora said they have yet to coordinate with the military or the Foreign Affairs department regarding the matter.

Panatag Shoal is 124 nautical miles from Zambales and is within the Philippines’ 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone based on the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, to which China is a signatory.

On April 8, eight Chinese fishing vessels were spotted in the shoal, prompting the Navy to send its largest warship BRP Gregorio del Pilar to the area to check on the vessels.

The ship reached the shoal on April 10 and its crew boarded the fishing vessels where they found live sharks, corals, and giant clams.

But before the Filipino sailors could arrest the fishermen and seize their catch, two Chinese “surveillance” ships arrived and stopped them. The fishing boats were able to flee with their illegal harvests.

The Del Pilar eventually left the area to replenish supplies and was replaced by the smaller and lightly armed BRP Pampanga of the coast guard.

Aside from the Chinese ships, an aircraft – also believed to be Chinese – had reportedly buzzed a Filipino fishing vessel.

Baldoz, meanwhile, recalled that Filipino workers felt no backlash even after the Rizal Park hostage tragedy in August 2010 that left eight Hong Kong tourists dead. The incident briefly soured relations between the Philippines and China.

Labor department records show there are 26,772 Filipino workers in China, mostly doctors and professionals.

“We don’t send that many OFWs (overseas Filipino workers) to China. They are mostly going there as tourists and try their luck to gain employment and just convert their visas into working visas upon getting jobs,” she added.

Encouraging

At Malacañang, Presidential Communications Secretary Ricky Carandang said President Aquino had a chance meeting with Chinese Ambassador Ma Keqing to whom he expressed his feeling of satisfaction that both sides were willing to talk to resolve the issue.

“He told her that it was encouraging that both sides continue to talk,” Carandang said.

Chinese embassy spokesman Zhang Hua, for his part, said his country prefers friendly consultations over discussing the issue before a United Nations-backed tribunal.

“We want friendly efforts to solve it,” Hua told The STAR.

Sen. Francis Escudero, meanwhile, said he supports proposals for the Philippines to have a joint exploration with China in the disputed islands in Palawan.

Escudero stressed that issues involving the Panatag Shoal and the West Philippine Sea should be resolved through diplomatic means.

Escudero recognized that Congress has the power to allow the administration to launch a war against China, but it is not choosing that option.

“Somebody asked me the question on why Congress is not doing anything. I know we have the sole power to declare war. The reason why Congress is quiet on it (is) because we don’t want to declare war,” Escudero said.

Come budget deliberations, Escudero said he expects explanations from defense and foreign affairs officials about the developments on the maritime disputes.

“I think the briefings will come during the budget deliberations and then we have more information with respect to the actions that the government has taken through the international organizations that we have brought this matter up with,” the senator said.

Escudero recommended that both China and the Philippines should agree on joint exploration. He said profits may be shared equally or the Philippines may bat for a bigger share. He said there is no reason to fight over areas that might yield no oil or gas or minerals.

He said accusing China of bullying is only worsening the problem.

“I think the President was being factual when he made the statement in connection with our position in relation to China,” Escudero said.

He said the Philippines has ordered only two new aircraft while China has more than 2,000. – With Christina Mendez, Pia Lee-Brago, Sheila Crisostomo

Sarangani Launches Mahin Summer Festet

by newsinfo.inquirer.net


GLAN, Sarangani (PIA) — Glan’s Mahin Festival kicks off vacation fun in Sarangani with another series of summer activities that would climax with a sunset-to-sunrise beach party in the famed Sarangani Bay Fest next month to be held in the white sands of Gumasa.

The successful maiden celebration of Mahin Festival last year triggered expectations of a bigger crowd to the three-day festivity which started yesterday, April 19, until April 21.

Lumba sa Kabayo (horse race), Palupad Tabanog (kite flying), Bangkarera (boat race), Pintados (body painting), beach volleyball and football, Bikini Open, concerts (featuring Blakdyak) and fireworks display are the lined-up activities that are certain to fire up the excitement of local folks.

Yesterday’s events were held at The Grove Beach in barangay Tango while in the next two days, it will be at the Coco Beach in Gumasa.

Mahin is a festival unique to the town of Glan which brings back traditional beach activities the townsfolk have been fond of doing since then like horse racing at the shoreline.

Ex-Sarangani governor, 6 others charged with graft

by Leila B. Salaverria

Philippine Daily Inquirer


The Office of the Ombudsman has filed graft charges against former Sarangani Governor Miguel Escobar and six other provincial officials for the questionable purchase of 30,000 textbooks without public bidding. Escobar was charged for approving two textbook purchases, involving 15,000 books for each transaction, in 2002 and 2003. Charged with Escobar for the first purchase was Provincial Social Welfare Development Officer Hermelo Latoja, who acted as the attorney in fact for textbook supplier Institute for Youth Volunteers Service and Early Childhood Development Inc. For the second purchase, charged along with Escobar and Latoja were Committee on Awards members Teresa Alvarado, Wahid Diama, Sittiehawa Marohomsalic, Cesar Cagang and Vivencia Telesforo. The Sarangani officials have denied the allegations against them in their respective counteraffidavits. Sarangani province first bought 15,000 copies of the textbook ABC My Practice Book I in November 2002 for P1.5 million, and bought 15,000 copies of ABC My Practice Book II in June 2003. The 2002 transaction was considered an emergency purchase, which was why the textbooks were bought directly from the supplier. But Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales said the emergency purchase was unjustified.

Sarangani hills ideal for paragliding, say experts

by Allen V. Estabillo


GENERAL SANTOS CITY (MindaNews/16 April) — Paragliding experts are promoting Sarangani province’s hilly landscape as a prime spot for the aerial adventure sport.

French national Armand Dard, a visiting professional paragliding instructor, said they found the hills straddling the Sarangani Bay, especially those located in the coastal villages of Maasim town, as a first-rate paragliding flight site. “This is my second time in the Philippines and my first time in Sarangani. Last year I did some paragliding in Carmona, Cavite and also in Boracay but this place, which I discovered one month ago is a better flight site,” Dard said. Dard and a newly-organized team of local paragliders have so far tried out the hills along a ranch owned by the San Andres Fishing Industries (SAFI) in barangay Seguil in Maasim, which is about 30 minutes away from this city. “It has comfortable takeoff and landing sites. Its big landing site is comfortable for beginners and you can fly almost every day,” he said in a report released by the Sarangani Information Office. Dard has been conducting international-standard paragliding trainings to members of the newly-formed Sarangani Paragliding Club. Michelle Solon, Region 12 tourism council chairperson, said they now consider paragliding as “the next big thing” in the region. Region 12, which also known as the Soccsksargen Region, covers the provinces of South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, North Cotabato and the cities of General Santos, Koronadal, Tacurong, Kidapawan and Cotabato.

“What is the next big thing in Region 12? We are crossing our fingers — I believe in a heartbeat, it’s going to be paragliding in Sarangani,” she said. “Who said there is no wind around Sarangani Bay? On the contrary, there is enough wind!” added Solon, who had tried sky sports paragliding. Joseph Oncada, vice president of Sarangani Paragliding Club said they started paragliding in the area in September last year. “To those who want to become pilots, or just want to experience flying in tandem, we offer training and tandem flights,” Oncada said. For a short flight, which is about 10 minutes, enthusiasts will need to cough up P2,300 and around P3,000 for a 15 to 20-minute flight, he said. On May 18, Oncada said the Sarangani Paragliding Club will have a paragliding accuracy competition as part of the upcoming celebration of the two-day Sarangani Bay Festival. (Allen V. Estabillo/MindaNews)






Palawan, Comval replicate Sarangani Big Brother

by (Beverly C. Paoyon and Serafin N. Ramos Jr./PIO Sarangani/PIA General Santos City)


ALABEL, Sarangani, April 16 (PIA) -- Sarangani Big Brother (SBB) “Reading is Fun!” enters its “Season 5” this week with two provinces replicating the program this year.

SBB “Reading is Fun!” is a 15-day reading program run by the provincial government’s Quality Education for Sarangani Today (QUEST) program designed to assist the Department of Education (DepEd) to improve reading skills of “frustration readers” among incoming Grade 2 and 3 pupils.

“Frustration readers” are those who can identify words but have inadequate or no comprehension at all.

The activity is a whole day remedial reading program from April 17 to May 8 implemented in partnership with the DepEd, QUEST, Sangguniang Kabataan and the Alcantara Foundation.

QUEST recently held two days of training for teachers who will conduct the reading classes. Each of the 309 teachers will handle an ideal class size of 35 pupils.

During the training, Governor Migs Dominguez thanked the teachers for their “passion and commitment” to make SBB successful.

“Let’s remember the first time we make them (children) read,” Dominguez told the teachers as he stressed the importance of continuously motivating children to learn to read.

Compostela Valley Province also sent nine youth leaders and 12 teachers to join the training as they would replicate SBB starting this summer vacation which would be called “Summer Big Brother: Reading is Fun! Season 1”.

After a series of benchmarking of local officials, DepEd officials and private sector in Sarangani which was arranged by Alcantara Foundation, Compostela Valley decided to replicate QUEST. Comval started with an Education Summit last January.

Palawan was also set to launch this month its Palawan Big Brother, patterned after SBB.

In early March, QUEST program manager Annalie Edday was instructed by Governor Dominguez to email the activities of QUEST to Palawan Governor Abraham Mitra because he was interested to replicate QUEST.

A QUEST team led by Edday flew to Palawan on March 19-22 to present QUEST and help Palawan organize its education reform program.

This summer, Palawan will have its PBB (Palawan Big Brother: Reading is Fun! Season 1).

“PBB is the kickoff project of the Palawan education reform program,” Edday said.

In Sarangani, Edday noted the improvement in the performance of the “frustration readers” after they have completed the reading program.

“I am so happy that they feel the sense of belongingness as they enrolled in the next grade,” Edday said.

She said every year different modules are used in the summer classes as additional inputs are being introduced.

QUEST also designed a volunteer program to tap youth volunteers who will assist teachers in facilitating the activities from the modules.

“Teaching young children to read is the most critical educational priority facing the province,” Edday said. She explained SBB “will help schools and children uplift their performance in reading.”

“By teaching all children to read well by the end of the third grade, we will ensure that all students that advance to later grades are well prepared to achieve their full academic potential,” Edday added.

Edday said SBB was successful in helping DepED eliminate the frustration and instructional readers among incoming Grade 2 and 3 pupils.

“For years it has produced good result; for 4 years, this program has engaged 855 teacher volunteers, 2,166 youth volunteers and has made 17,983 pupils better readers,” Edday disclosed.

“We are happy that we have numerous volunteers from General Santos City, seven scholars of American Field Studies and one German volunteer this year,” Edday reported about the SBB volunteers training.

The program was first thought to make “reading as fun,” said Edday, “but since there are quite a number of frustration readers so we made SBB season 4 as a remedial reading program.”

SBB was launched in 2008 in which Governor Dominguez said the first concern then was how to harness the spirit of volunteerism among the youth “to be able to make them contribute in the community.”

“Masarap makatulong bumasa at buksan ang mga mata ng mga bata and teach them to dream big!,” Dominguez told the volunteers in Alabel during the volunteers training last year.

For the past three years, SBB became a channel in unifying the school’s community and utilizing the collective efforts of the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) of the province.

The governor has pointed out that “success lies in education. It opens up boundaries we think impossible. Education from elementary to high school up to college will ensure better future.”

In 2011, QUEST pre-test and post-test results showed a 55 percent increase of the pupils’ reading level from “frustration readers” (36%) to the right reading level (91%) and were ready to enter Grade 3.

Every year, the reading skills of pupils were improving because of Sarangani Big Brother. SBB has become successful through volunteer youth and members of the Sangguniang Kabataan.

“SBB taught me to become someone - to be a builder of this nation. I learned to embrace the beauty of imparting knowledge,” volunteer John Logos Guiang from Maitum town said.

During its second season of Sarangani Big Brother “Reading is Fun!” one of the youth volunteers in Maasim Elementary School was Aimee Aragon, then a 15-year old incoming first year college student.

“I am blessed to be given the opportunity to share my knowledge and experiences for the little children like I was, and I’m very happy to be an ‘Ate’ (big sister) for them,” Aragon said.

The Panlalawigang Pederasyon ng Sangguniang Kabataan (PPSK) launched the month-long reading program in the summer of 2008 among elementary pupils while instilling the value of volunteerism among “mentors”.

Right from SBB’s first season, Alcantara Foundation has already been one of the partners together with the SK, DepEd and the local government in the implementation of the program.

The rest of the sponsors this year are Synergia Foundation, Sagittarius Mining Corp. and World Vision.

'Respect Pacman's decision to join PDP-Laban'

by Evelyn Macairan


MANILA, Philippines - A Catholic Church official asked the public yesterday to respect the decision of Sarangani representative and boxing champ Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao to join the political party Partido Demokratikong Pilipino-Laban (PDP-Laban) of Vice President Jejomar Binay.

Marbel South, Cotabato Bishop Dinualdo Gutierrez said Pacquiao is old enough to make decisions on his own.

“Pacman is mature and intelligent. Respect his decision,” Gutierrez said.

Sarangani province is one of the areas under the Diocese of Marbel, South Cotabato, which the bishop heads.

Gutierrez said his statement stems from his concern about the faith and morals of people, rather than politics.

Pacquiao was earlier reported to be leaving the Liberal Party of President Aquino to join Binay’s camp.

The 33-year-old boxer-turned-legislator is reportedly being groomed to be the PDP-Laban’s gubernatorial candidate in Sarangani in next year’s elections.

Pacquiao might take his oath as party member of PDP-Laban before his next fight with Timothy Bradley in June.

Sarangani good site for paragliding

by Cocoy Sexcion


MAASIM, Sarangani, April 14 (PIA) -- Sarangani is a good flying site for paragliding said Armand Dard, a French national and a visiting paragliding professional instructor.

"This is my second time in the Philippines and my first time in Sarangani. Last year I did some paragliding in Carmona, Cavite and also in Boracay but this place which I discovered one month ago is a better flight site,” Dard said.

The flying site is located at SAFI Ranch 1 in barangay Seguil, less than 30 minutes drive from General Santos City.

The flight site is overlooking Sarangani Bay.

“It has comfortable take off and landing sites,” Dard noted. “It also has big landing site comfortable for beginners and you can fly almost everyday."

Dard is conducting paragliding international standard trainings to members of the newly-formed Sarangani Paragliding Club.

“You ask what is the next big thing in Region 12, we are crossing our fingers -- but I believe in a heartbeat, it’s going to be Paragliding in Sarangani. It is definitely a number 1 for fun!” said an exuberant Michelle Solon, chair of the Regional Tourism Council.

“Who said there is no wind around Sarangani Bay? On the contrary there is enough wind!” added Solon who has tried sky sports paragliding.

Joseph Oncada, vice president of Sarangani Paragliding Club said they started paragliding in September last year, “and this is the newest sport in the country."

"To those who want to become pilots, or just want to experience flying in tandem, we offer training and tandem flights," Oncada said.

A short flight or a maximum of 10-minute flight would cost P2,300. “For a long flight or 15 to 20-minute flight, we charge P3,000," Oncada added.

Oncada said the Sarangani Paragliding Club will also have a paragliding accuracy competition on May 18 in time for Sarangani Bay Festival.. (DED-PIA 12/CSexcion/Sarangani Information Office)

Land Bank relocates Alabel branch to Sarangani

by John Anthony Concepcion


Apr 13, 2012 (Datamonitor via COMTEX) -- Land Bank of the Philippines has relocated its Alabel branch to a more spacious facility at the Provincial Capitol Complex of Sarangani, to expand its network.

"LANDBANK's strategic network expansion is consistent with our thrust to provide banking services to the unbanked and underserved areas in continuous pursuit of countryside development," said LANDBANK President and CEO Gilda E. Pico.

LANDBANK first established its presence in Alabel in 1996 with its first branch at the Provincial Capitol Gymnasium. Among the clients of the branch are the local government of Alabel, the provincial government of Sarangani, and the neighboring municipalities of Malapatan, Glan, and some barangays of Malungon, along with rural bank and micro and SME clients.

"This forms part of our financial inclusion program which we are aggressively pursuing as we hope to bring banking services closer to underserved and unbanked areas. This will likewise benefit the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program or 4Ps beneficiaries since they will no longer need to travel out of their towns to withdraw their cash grants," said LANDBANK President Pico.

The MOU was signed by Maitum Mayor Elsie Lucille Perrett, Malungon Mayor Reynaldo Constantino, Rural Bank of Kiamba President Teresa Falgui, and LANDBANK First vice president for Mindanao Branches Joselito Gutierrez, for the installation of automated teller machines (ATMs) in the six other municipalities of Sarangani, namely Glan, Kiamba, Maasim, Malapatan, Malungon, and Maitum.

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‘BIR is right going after Pacquiao’

by Frances Mangosing

INQUIRER.net


MANILA, Philippines—Following the Bureau of Internal Revenue’s filing of the tax evasion case against its former poster boy, boxing icon and Representative Manny Pacquiao, half of INQUIRER.net readers think it was only the right thing to do. In a poll conducted between March 29 and April 12, 51.73 percent or 2,682 answered “BIR is only right to go after Pacquiao” to the question, “What do you think of the BIR’s tax case against Manny Pacquiao?” However, 32.15 percent or 1,667 thought it could be talked over by answering “BIR and Pacquiao should settle the case amicably.” Meanwhile, 16.12 percent or 836 voted that “Pacquiao is right in calling the BIR move as harassment.” In March, the BIR filed a tax evasion case against Pacquiao, for his alleged failure to submit complete tax records for the year 2010. It said that Pacquiao ignored summons issued by the BIR office in Central Mindanao asking him to explain his failure to submit complete tax documents. Pacquiao cried foul over the case, claiming that it was “without basis” and a form of harassment. “The institution of the case against me is plain and simple harassment. Contrary to public perception, I am not charged with Tax Evasion or Tax Fraud. That is farther from the truth. Over the years as a boxer, a product endorser and a businessman,” he said in a statement. Pacquiao said the BIR violated its own rules when it served the subpoena to a person unknown to him. He also asked why the BIR served the subpoena in General Santos City when he is now a resident of Sarangani. The boxing sensation, who topped the taxpayer’s list in 2008, made a 30-second television commercial for BIR in 2009 reminding citizens to pay their taxes.






PNoy PREEMPTS ENERGY SUMMIT, APPROVED MORE COAL-POWERED PLANTS

by John Anthony Concepcion


DAVAO CITY, APRIL 11, 2012 (MANILA STANDARD) Written by Christine F. Herrera - Critics bare ‘midnight deals’ on coal power plants

President Benigno Aquino III has approved “midnight deals” to build more coal-fired plants in Mindanao days ahead of an Energy Summit here, locking the island into a dirty source of power for decades, lawmakers and environmentalists said Monday.

“The Mindanao Energy Summit was supposed to give the stakeholders options for short- and long-term solutions to the power crisis, but no option is being offered because the contracts for coal are already a done deal,” Bayan Muna Rep. Teddy Casiño said.

“Is there a conspiracy to ram fossil-fuel power as the solution? Would this not reduce the power summit to a farce, giving Mindanao consumers no choice but to stick to more expensive, dirty, non-renewable power?”

Von Hernandez, Greenpeace Southeast Asia executive director, said environmental compliance certificates were hastily approved for the coal plants despite opposition from the communities in Mindanao.

“The hasty approval … confirms earlier suspicions that pro-coal business interests were out to capitalize on the current crisis to railroad government approval of such environmentally sensitive projects that should have undergone better scrutiny,” Hernandez said.

Agham Rep. Angelo Palmones, who comes from Cotabato, urged Congress to exercise its oversight powers to review the deals.

At a pre-summit conference last week, Energy Undersecretary Josephine Patricia Asirit said some 700 megawatts would be generated from the coal-fired power plants and that the 100-megawatt Iligan diesel plant owned by the Alcantaras would be revived pending clearance from the Audit Commission.

Asirit said Mindanao had a daily demand of 1,200 megawatts and a shortfall of 100 megawatts, and that demand was growing at 50 megawatts yearly. Some 1,400 megawatts would be in the pipelines for Mindanao from October 2012 to 2014.

Asirit identified the coal-fired projects as a 200-megawatt coal-fired plant by Conal Holdings of the Alcantaras in 2014, a 200-megawatt coal-fired plant by STEAG in the last quarter of 2014, a 300-megawatt coal-fired plant by Therma South of the Aboitizes in 2014, and a 15-megawatt oil-based plant by EEI Power Corp. in October 2012.

The 50-megawatt Mt. Apo 3 geothermal plant and a 5-megawatt wind farm would also be operational by 2014 and 2015, respectively.

Providing extra power would be the eight-megawatt Cabulig hydroelectric plant by Minergy, a 35-megawatt biomass facility by Green Power Bukidnon in 2013, the 225-megawatt Agus 3 hydroelectric plant by Lanao Hydropower Development Corp. in 2015, the 20-megawatt Tagoloan hydroelectric plant by Mindanao Hydro Power Corp. in 2016, and the 12-megawatt Tamugan hydroelectric plant by Hedcor in 2018.

Asirit said coal and diesel would make up the region’s base load because of the unreliability and seasonality of the hydrothermal plants.

Only 350 megawatts was approved for geothermal and other renewable energy sources.

Coal, power barges and diesel cost P9 a kilowatt hour compared with P2 for hydroelectric power and P2.80 for geothermal power.

Citing Asirit’s presentation at the pre-summit conference, Hernandez said the Energy Department had confirmed that four coal plants and one coal power plant expansion were in the pipeline for Mindanao.

“One of the plans [was] approved early this week, ironically, with a promise from the President to expedite the construction process of the harmful facility. Last November 2011, the government gave the go-signal for a coal plant in Sarangani, and before that in July, [President Aquino] was guest of honor in the inauguration of another coal facility in the Visayas.

“Should the other projects in Mindanao push through, President Aquino’s administration would have approved more coal plants than any of his predecessors.”

“With this midnight approval, the government has succeeded in creating a truly agonizing Holy Week scenario for the people of Mindanao, replete with episodes of sacrifice, false prophets, and public betrayal.”

Hernandez reminded the President of his campaign promise to support the development of renewable energy and to phase out coal-fired power plants.

“We thought this administration would approach this problem with a greater measure of integrity and sophistication,” Hernandez said.

“On the contrary, he has allowed coal pushers in his team to overturn his pledge as evidenced by the [Energy Department’s] existing plans to build an unprecedented number of coal plants during his term. The President should be advised that each coal plant he builds edges out the opportunity for the people of this country to harness clean and renewable power.”

Greenpeace claims there is no such things as “clean coal plants,” and that there were no commercially available technologies that could remove mercury, a deadly neurotoxin that accumulates in the environment and in the food chain, or carbon dioxide, which causes climate change.

Casiño, meanwhile, said he had learned that in an April 4 pre-summit meeting in Davao, Energy Secretary Jose Rene Almendras ordered Mindanao’s electric cooperatives to buy expensive power from the privatized power barges at P14 a kilowatt hour, with the government shouldering P9 per kilowatt hour.

Almendras, he said, also reportedly ordered local government officials to immediately approve the environmental compliance certificates for at least two new coal-fired power plants in Mindanao.

“If that is the case, then the power summit would just be a rubber stamp... which forces consumers to pay an additional 50 to 80 centavos per kilowatt hour for their electricity due to the manipulations of favored private power generators like Therma Marine Inc. owned by the Aboitizes, ” Casiño said.

He said he found it strange that the government was willing to subsidize diesel power at P9 a kilowatt hour when it would be cheaper and more sustainable to subsidize solar and other renewable energy sources.

Asirit told the pre-summit conference that power rate increases were inevitable.

“What makes Mindanao different from Visayas and Luzon is its rich potential for renewable energy, from solar, hydro, geothermal to biomass. Why not tap these instead of the more expensive and dirty fossil fuel technologies?” Casiño said.

Also on Monday, administration Senator Serge Osmeña III chided the electric cooperatives for opposing the privatization of the government-owned plants on the island, saying it was mandated by law. He his view that the people of Mindanao had been enjoying subsidies for too long.

“The Mindanao cooperatives have their own version of the economic law of supply and demand,” Osmeña, chairman of the Joint Congressional Power Commission, told the Manila Standard in a text message.

“They demand subsidized electricity and the rest of the country must supply. What about the rest of the population who have been paying market rates for almost 10 years?”

The senator was reacting to the position paper submitted by the 33-member Association of Mindanao Rural Electric Cooperatives, which urges the government to forgo plans to sell its power plants in Mindanao to prevent a spike in energy prices.

Osmeña said the privatization of government-owned plants was mandated by law to attract the private sector to enter the power generation business.

“Private owners do not and cannot afford to compete with government, which can operate at a loss,” he said.

Last 2 Pacquiao fights fail to impress Ariza

by Romina S. Austria

Philippine Daily Inquirer


Manny Pacquiao’s strength and conditioning coach said he is far from impressed with the Filipino ring superstar’s two fights last year. And the last thing Alex Ariza wants is an unprepared Pacquiao battling the unbeaten American Timothy Bradley on June 9 for the Sarangani congressman’s WBO welterweight belt at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. “We can’t have a bad camp,” Ariza told boxingscene.com. “(Pacquiao’s) physical conditioning is very important. This must happen all the way.” Pacquiao will defend his WBO title for the fourth time against the unpredictable Bradley, with the Ring magazine’s pound-for-pound king heavily favored to bag his 55th professional victory in 60 fights. The eight-division world champion prevailed via ho-hum unanimous decisions over Joshua Clottey in March 2010 and Shane Mosley in May 2011 before besting Juan Manuel Marquez for the second time via an unpopular majority decision six months later. “He’s (Bradley) a high-volume puncher who’ll come forward,” Ariza said. “Bradley’s not a technical guy like Marquez. He fights somewhat like Manny. That’s why I think it’ll be an explosive fight.” Ariza said Pacquiao, who has started light training in Manila and General Santos City, runs the risk of losing focus for his clash with Bradley because of his various activities outside the ring. The Colombian conditioning guru also said starting camp on April 16 in Baguio City could be “a little late” for Pacquiao even though he sees a hungrier, more motivated Pacman this time. “It’s up to Manny how he’d prepare against Bradley,” Ariza said, adding he knows Pacquiao wants to prove something in his coming fight. Meanwhile, world junior welterweight contender Ruslan Provodnikov (21-1, 14 KOs) will join Pacquiao’s training camp in Baguio. The Russian is expected to arrive in the country on April 22. Provodnikov will travel back to Los Angeles with Pacquiao and head trainer Freddie Roach in early May to continue training at the Wild Card Gym. Despite his apprehensions, Ariza said he is confident the Pacquiao-Bradley bout will be a short one. “Manny’s competitive spirit will take over,” Ariza said. “How he trains will impact on how he does against Bradley. “If he trains properly, Manny could blow that guy away in less than five rounds.”

Sarangani floods affect 100 families

by Jay Dayupay and Rhea Lara, ABS-CBN News SOKSARGEN


MANILA, Philippines – More than 100 families in Poblacion, Alabel, Sarangani province were affected by floods triggered by strong rains last Saturday.

Raging floodwaters inundated Purok 4, Sitio Cogonal and Purok Tagumpay, prompting several residents to flee their homes.

Around 50 hectares of agricultural products were also destroyed.

In Barangay Kawas, motorists were stranded due to an impassible bridge.

Road repairs are ongoing.

The residents have returned to their homes but they fear that more rains in the coming days will trigger floods anew.

Police rescue two abducted security guards in Sarangani

by LBG, GMA News


Local authorities on Saturday rescued in Sarangani province two abducted security guards, a police report said.

Mark Lantin and Daniel Bolunos were released unharmed by their captors on Saturday morning, some 29 hours after they were abducted by armed men at the Rosa Farm, Sitio Nakolel, Barangay Lago in Glan town at 4 a.m. on Good Friday.

Reports reaching Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Dir. Gen. Nicanor Bartolome from Central Mindanao said a crisis management committee – composed of personnel from Glan Municipal Police Station, Sarangani Police Provincial Police Office, Regional Intelligence Division and local government authorities – was convened immediately to secure the safe release of the captives.

At the same time, PNP units had conducted operations to limit the movement of the abductors within a smaller area.

Chief Supt Benjardi Mantele, PNP Regional Director in Central Mindanao, said the two victims were brought to Barangay Congan before their abductors were prompted to release the victims unconditionally due to police pressure.

Mindanao farmers get tractors, threshers from gov’t

by Leila B. Salaverria

Philippine Daily Inquirer


MANILA, Philippines—Farmers in Mindanao have received nmearly P21 million worth of farm equipment from the Department of Agriculture intended to help them produce more crops and earn more money. The department said in a news release that it recently awarded 177 pieces of farm machinery and equipment, such as tractors and threshers, to farmers’ groups and irrigators’ associations in Region 12 or the Soccsksargen (South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani and General Santos City) Region. The DA shouldered the bulk of the cost of the equipment through the farm mechanization component of its Food Staple Sufficiency Program. Under the program, the DA paid for 85 percent of the cost, while the beneficiaries shouldered the remaining 15 percent. Assistant Agriculture Secretary Dante Delima said another set of farm machines and equipment was scheduled to be awarded to another batch of farmers in August this year. Delima, who was present in the recent turnover to the beneficiaries, called on the farmers to maximize the use of their new equipment in their field preparation, planting, harvesting and other farm operations so that these would be faster and more efficient. He also said they should take care of the machines, which are meant to increase their production and income. DA Region 12 Director Amalia Jayag-Datukan said the department would create a team to monitor the farmers and irrigators groups to ensure they are using the new equipment efficiently and are seeing to their maintenance. The bulk of the machines and equipment went to 126 farmers’ groups. They received five units of four-wheel drive tractors, 112 hand tractors, and 37 rice threshers, collectively worth P18.5 million. Five outstanding irrigators’ associations received nine hand tractors, seven hermetic cocoons, and seven portable dryers, which are worth P2.43 million.

Pacquiao steps aside for the true Champ

by www.abs-cbnnews.com


MANILA, Philippines – Core members and volunteers of ABS-CBN Christian Fellowship were still busy setting up for the 7 p.m. March 29 fellowship when I received a phone call at 4:30 pm from our guest speaker. “Malapit na kami diyan sa ABS,” Sarangani Congressman and world boxing champ Manny Pacquiao said.

“Huh? Ang aga niyo,” I answer.

“OK lang,” he said. “Gusto ko i-testing iyong Powerpoint presentation ko.”

In less than 5 minutes, a convoy of 4-5 vehicles pulled up the driveway of the ABS-CBN compound bringing the members of Barangay Pacquiao - Manny dressed in a suit, Jinkee in a gorgeous yellow lace dress, their 4 kids, Jimuel, Michael, Princess and Queenie and their yayas, his security detail, executive assistant Stephanie, and Pastor Jeric Soriano.

A crowd quickly gathers when word of his arrival spread. ABS-CBN employees left their workstations to stare, get a picture or shake the hand of the 8-division boxing champ. Even the kids are greeted with cheers and well-wishes. Manny obliges the fans while slowly working his way to the Dolphy Theater.

Once there, Manny introduced the Pacquiao Word Worship team, led by his wife Jinkee, his staff, security and some friends. All of them are wearing Team Pacquiao T-shirts. The team practice their line-up of praise and worship songs such as Power of Your Love, Here We Are, Shine Jesus Shine, and Walang Hanggang Pasasalamat.

Manny briefly goes through his presentation with Pastor Jeric who has been intensely teaching the Sarangani congressman. He gives Pacquiao the nod – he’s good to go. Before the service, the organizers gather as a group and say a prayer asking for the Holy Spirit to empower the speaker, the musicians and everyone involved.

Packed theatre

The Dolphy Theatre is packed even before the fellowship starts. The worshippers come out and lead the people in worship before I formally introduce the Pacman on stage. He started off by greeting everyone with his big smile.

“Kumain na ba kayo? (Have you eaten?)” he asked, earning a chuckle from the audience.

Manny then encouraged them with a Bible verse. “OK lang. Sabi sa Biblia, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’”

Pacquiao then shared his dream where he heard God speaking to him: “Anak , bakit ka lumayo sa akin? (My child, why have you gone astray?)”

Manny did go astray as his boxing career soared.

“Umiinom, sugal, bar, babae...,” he said

He then added: “That old Manny Pacquiao is gone and the new Manny Pacquiao has come.”

‘I didn’t understand the Bible’

Manny attributes his spiritual awakening and transformation after truly discovering the author and subject of the Bible, Jesus Christ.

He said he repented from his sin, rededicated his life to Jesus and went on a quest to learn as much as he could about his Savior and how to get closer to God.

“When I first read the Bible, I couldn’t understand it. I wanted a bible study in the morning and in the afternoon. I felt my day wasn’t complete if I didn’t read the Bible,” he shares.

Manny moved on to his presentation and for the next 45 minutes, he shared how the Word of God, when read, meditated and followed, turned his life around.

The Pacman shared one Bible verse that made an impact on his life. Joshua 1:8 “Keep this book of the Law always in your lips. Meditate on it day and night so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.”

“The Bible is spiritual food that feeds your Spirit man,” Manny explained.

“The old Manny, when tempting thoughts would come to me, I had no power to say ‘No.’ Now I do,” he added.

Turning point

It was 4 months ago when Manny declared inside the Wild Card Gym in Los Angeles that he wanted to turn his life around. He hasn’t looked back since.

Pastor Rice Brooks in Las Vegas shared to him about the Word of God one week before his fight with Juan Manuel Marquez. Pacquiao fell in love with God, and everyday after, I could see his eyes sparkle whenever he learned a new truth and precept.

He glued himself to the Bible and prayer, and rededicated himself to his family. Round by round, he pounded away at his old habits. Today, Manny walks around with his iPad equipped with Bible apps. He also shares pages of Bible verses he has memorized.

“Marami na akong mga weapon!” he exclaims to everyone who’s listening.

Pastor Jeric Soriano said Manny has carried his discipline in boxing training to his study of the Word of God.

“He is extremely diligent and determined,” he said.

Pacquiao said another one of his favorite Bible verses is Jeremiah 29:11. “For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.”

He explained: “Dati dasal ako ng dasal. Simba ako every Sunday pero Monday to Saturday lahat ng kalokohan ginagawa ko. Hindi natin maloloko ang Panginoon.”

His wife, Jinkee, was all smiles as she listened to her husband preach for the first time.

“Ang Holy Spirit na kay Manny na talaga. Happy ako at lahat kaming pamilya. Ang saya na talaga,” he said.

Bible studies in his Manila and General Santos City homes are frequent. Pacquiao also likes to listen to an audio bible with portable speakers in his vehicle.

In his sermon, Pacquiao is stretching his arms wide to the audience.

“God loves us so much. That’s why he even died for us.’

“Famous athletes like Jeremy Lin, Tim Tebow and now Manny Pacquiao are all sharing about God. Why me? Because the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ is near.”

Dig deep into the Word

Pacquiao ended his sermon by bowing down in prayer and asking all who want to begin a new life with Jesus to join in.

‘Lord, maraming salamat sa iyong pag-ibig. Sorry sa lahat ng kasalanan ko. I give my life to you Jesus. The old is gone, the new me has come. Thank you. I love you, God,” he said.

He then joins his group in singing a couple more of his favorite praise and worship songs.

“Diva for the Lord” Dulce belted out a powerful number while Pastor Jesse Dedel prayed over the Pacquiao family, encouraging Manny to press on till the end.

Celebrities and top management attended the fellowship but the night did not belong to them. In the end, even the 8-division world boxing champion stepped aside to give glory to the true champion – the Lord Jesus Christ.

Pacquiao also encouraged Filipinos to dig deep into the Holy Scripture during Holy Week.

“Dig deep and truly have a life changing experience with God by committing to read His Word and obeying it. He has a solution for every situation and nothing is impossible with God,” he said. “Believe! Don’t live in unbelief.”

Pacquiao has said before that he plans to retire soon since he has nothing left to prove inside the ring. Indeed, his boxing conquests may soon come to an end but his new journey of victory in Christ is just beginning.

Go Gumasa for the biggest beach party this summer - Asian Correspondent

by COCOY SEXCION


Tired of the maddening crowd of Boracay? The crash commercialism of Panglao? Or the prohibitive and princely price tag of El Nido? Save your bed and dine budget and get more adventurous. Pack those bags and fly farther south for a summer retreat where one gets the most rural of the setting, yet lusts for one of nature’s few remaining unspoiled beauties. Welcome to Gumasa in Sarangani, home to Mindanao’s biggest beach party – the Sarangani Bay Festival.

Crossing the 15-kilometer Sarangani Bay channel

It is in this part of Mindanao where you can still frolic in the most powdery white sands, watch beach volley and soccer, build sand castles, snorkel and skinny dip in crystal-clear sea waters and party all night long. On the side, shout your hearts out as you cheer for your favorite 5-man relay team swim and race against many others in the shark-infested Sarangani Bay, a distance of 15 kilometers across the channel. (Don’t worry. The sheer number of sea crafts, swimmers and spectators are driving those sharks away.) Oh, lest you forget, watch dolphins playfully swim with the human tankers at a safe distance. When there are no sharks, there are dolphins, period. Gumasa, they say, is what Boracay was 25 years ago when the world-known tourist destination was not yet, well, as crowded as it is today. When being in with the Boracay beach crowd means spending half a year’s salary for a Metro Manila minimum wage earner for a two night stay good for two. You can spend half of that and stay in Gumasa for four days. That’s practically more than half the price tag of Boracay! But, dig this. You can happily bring home along with you the bragging rights of telling friends when you grow those grey hairs that you were there in Gumasa when one can practically own the place by his or her lonesome during off seasons. That is one of life’s priceless moments and memories. Just ask Supreme Court administrator Midas Marquez who was at the bay festival two years ago and was seen tightly clasping a bottle of ice cold San Mig Lights while watching Cueshe live on stage. Or Tina Muñoz Palma who had her moment with youthful Sarangani Gov. Miguel Rene Dominguez along the beach front one breezy and cloudy afternoon the year before. Talkback host and Bantay Bata mover Tina Muñoz Palma of ANC and ABS-CBN Foundation with Sarangani Gov. Miguel Rene Dominguez

Dominguez said the late Filipino rock icon Karl Roy once suddenly popped out from the crowd and went upstage to jam with the local band. Eric Gancio of the lamented and missed Yano band is a regular performer here. Eric is a friend of the governor. Recent Pinoy Big Brother fourth placer Paco Evangelista is also a regular at the bay festival. Sarbay, as organizers have coined it, now proudly owns the tag as Mindanao’s biggest beach party and Gumasa is the resident host of Sarangani Bay Festival.

The festival itself has become the province’s great leveler – where a farmhand can rub elbows with celebrities. Where Sarangani’s officials are part of the crowd – not the crowd. “I think we can claim it has become the bigger beach party in the country where people party literally from sundown to sunrise,” the governor said. Dominguez said, last year, the bay festival was able to attract 35,000 local tourists – up from 6,000 in 2006. Have you seen your vice governor break dance on stage in your place? Try Gumasa. The bay festival was one of the first activity concepts pushed by Dominguez immediately after he was elected governor of the province for the first time in 2004. Sarangani province however shares the bay with nearby General Santos City. (Sarangani six coastal towns are evenly separated by Gensan) After failed attempts to jointly host Sarbay with General Santos, Dominguez gave his signal to proceed with the concept that has now become a buzzword in Mindanao. Mindanao today. The world tomorrow. This year’s Sarangani Bay Festival has been shortened to two days – May 18-19. This should give visitors enough time to enjoy the serenity of the place and explore other places before and after Sarbay.

Side tours The bay fest is adventure enough but if one wants to extend his stay, he or she can para-glide and get an eagle eye’s view of the blue waters of Sarangani Bay. The Tan brothers of SAFII Group of Companies are offering this latest craze to hit Sarangani.

Lemlunay's infiniti pool

If one is a dive enthusiast and wants to explore the earth’s remaining frontier, there is the Lemlunay Dive Resort operated by the Partridge family in Tinoto Maasim, also in Sarangani. The Tinoto Wall is dubbed as one of the best dive spots in Mindanao. The wall drops more than 500 feet you can almost “see” the abyss. Lemlunay also offers world-class accommodation with an infiniti pool to drool for.

Rep. Manny Pacquiao shooting the La Union rapids

If security arrangement can be made, a trek into the hidden waterfalls of Kiamba town or a visit to one of the pre-historic burial caves of Maitum will be a big bonus.

Nalus Falls in Kiamba

But you can still wet your butt in white-water rubber-tubing adventure in La Union, Maitum. Sarangani Rep. Manny once said the 1.5 kilometer stretch of rapids ride was one like he never had before. Unfortunately, until Manny retires from boxing, you will not get to see him at the festival as he often fights during the month.

How to get there and some tips

Travel light. You do not have to dress up and bring your costly gears. After all, Gumasa is a backpacker’s ultimate paradise. Book a flight from your place of origin to General Santos City. There are at least four flights daily from Manila and back and two flights from Cebu on some days. Taxis at the airport are available. Drivers however are not keen on using the taxi meter, though. Haggle with them. Airport to downtown fare should not be more than P300. You can ask the driver where to bring you to the hotel or inn that best suits your taste or budget. Don’t look for 5-star accommodation. There is none yet in the city. You can make arrangements with the hotel front desk for transfer accommodation to one of the beach resorts in Gumasa. If you are to join the bay festival, an outdoor carry-on portable tent is advisable if you cannot have prior bookings. You may inquire with event organizers at stipc@yahoo.com or call Telefax (083) 508-5230 or 508-5244.

From being No. 1 taxpayer in 2008, Pacquiao slides to 135th spot in 2010

by KBK/VS, GMA News


From being number one in 2008, Sarangani Rep. and world boxing champion Manny Pacquiao slid to the 135th spot among the country’s Top 500 individual taxpayers in 2010, latest data from the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) showed.

Pacquiao, who is currently at loggerheads with the BIR, paid only P9,190,691 in taxes in 2010 despite having a taxable income of P504.5 million, the bureau said.

In 2008, Pacquiao paid over P125 million, making him the top taxpayer for that year.

The eight-time world champion is currently facing a criminal case for obstructing a tax investigation into his earnings, a case that he said has cost him a fortune in endorsements.

The case was filed by the BIR last February after Pacquiao allegedly failed to submit proper documents about his earnings from boxing matches and his numerous commercial endorsements.

The BIR, through the agency’s regional director Rozil Lozares, issued a Letter of Authority to the boxing icon requiring him to submit documents regarding his earnings. Pacquiao allegedly failed to comply.

The BIR wants to investigate Pacquiao’s 33 tax records, including his annual income tax return in 2010, his book of accounts, list of assets, as well as his earnings from his fights against Antonio Margarito and Joshua Clottey.

GMA News Online called Pacquiao's business manager Rex "Wakee" Salud over the phone, but the boxing champ's camp is still to issue an official statement as of this posting.

Pacquiao’s tax payments substantially declined to some P7 million in 2009 from P125 million in 2008–a drastic drop that got the bureau curious.

Pacquiao has vowed to fight the case in court and accused the BIR of singling him out for harassment.

According to the latest BIR list, businessman Vicente Lao was the top taxpayer for 2010. He had a taxable income of P235 million that year and paid taxes of P75 million.

After Lao, businessman Rolando Hortaleza placed second with P69.665 million in taxes. Filmmaker Carlo J. Caparas, once the subject of a tax case filed by the BIR, came in third with P65.670 million in taxes.

For non-individual taxpayers, communications giant Smart Communications topped the list with P11.456 billion for 2010. Other top corporate taxpayers were Chevron Malampaya LLC (P4.378 billion) and Shell Philippines Exploration (P4.327 billion).

Nestle and San Miguel placed fourth and fifth, with P4.277 billion and P4.206 billion, respectively.

Journalist wants libel raps dismissed

by (PNA)

DCT/PTR


MANILA — A Mindanao-based journalist has sought the dismissal of the libel case filed against him by the alleged friend of world boxing champion Sarangani Rep. Emmanuel "Manny" Pacquiao. In his 13-page counter-affidavit, Edwin Espejo, contributor for MindaNews and Asian Correspondent, said that "it is, therefore, imperative upon the fiscal or the judge as the case may be, to relieve the accused from the pain of going through a trial once it is ascertained that the evidence is insufficient to sustain a prima facie case or that no probable cause exists to form a sufficient belief as to the guilt of the accused." Espejo is facing an P18-million libel case filed against him by Mohammad Aquia, former head of the Presidential Anti-Smuggling Group (PASG) in Central Mindanao. In his article, Espejo allegedly mentioned Aquia as an accused of running a carjacking syndicate who sought refuge in Pacquiao's house in General Santos City to evade arrest. The article was published online. In his counter-affidavit, Espejo said that libel cannot be committed by means of the Internet pointing out that under Article 353, the definition of libel "did not comprehend the rise of the interface of advanced telecommunications technologies with the internet." Espejo said that such deficiency is recognized by the Senate thus Senator Manuel Villar filed on Jan. 18, 2011 a bill penalizing internet libel. He added that there is also no malice when he wrote the article because Aquia is a public figure and he does not know him personally. Espejo, through his legal counsel Romel Bagares, director of the Center for International Law Philippines, said that a United Nations Committee on Human Rights report stated that criminal libel in the Philippines is contrary to the country's obligations under Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Likewise, Bagares also said that they have yet to receive summons from the Office of the City Prosecutor in General Santos about the alleged P75-million libel case filed by Pacquiao against Espejo. "Our information is that Rep. Pacquiao filed his complaint together with Mr. Aquia," Bagares said. "In any case we reiterate our earlier call on Rep. Pacquiao to take this opportunity to work with journalists in pressing for the decriminalization of libel in the country," he said. "This is an opportune moment for Rep. Pacquiao to show solidarity with Filipino journalists," Bagares added.

Mindanao chambers look to strengthen role in investment facilitation

by zambotimes.com


CEBU CITY-Chambers of commerce in Mindanao should take a stronger role in drawing trade and investment to their respective areas. This was the consensus among the Mindanao chamber officials who attended a “cross-learning” seminar organized in Cebu City by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), and the U. S. Agency for International Development (USAID), through its Growth with Equity in Mindanao (GEM) Program. The seminar drew executives from established chambers of commerce in Davao, Cagayan de Oro, and Zamboanga, as well as from smaller, newer chambers, from the provinces of Sarangani and Surigao and the cities of Butuan, Pagadian and Kidapawan. Representatives from Naga, Iloilo, and Cebu business chambers also attended the activity. Participants exchanged best practices on chamber revenue generation, policy advocacy, and trade and investment facilitation, focusing on the successful experience of the Cebu Investment Promotion Center. “We are in the process of reviewing our city’s investment code, and it was particularly useful to learn more about Cebu’s highly focused approach,” said Raymund Salangsang, president of the General Santos City chamber. “GenSan has well-established fisheries, agriculture and IT sectors that bring in business, but we really should distinguish between domestic and foreign investors and their differing requirements,” Salangsang said. He also proposed a more subregional approach towards attracting investors. “Some industries cannot be contained in just one city,” Salangsang said. “GenSan is already the commercial and transport hub for surrounding provinces, so why not help businesses to locate or expand there? It works out to everyone’s benefit.” “We looked at our respective strengths rather than try to replicate what other cities are doing,” said Mercedes Lourdes Quisumbing, president of the Pagadian City-Zamboanga del Sur Chamber of Commerce and Industry Foundation, Inc. “We are a small city in a highly agricultural area, with only a small wharf, but with established supply routes to Cebu and Cagayan de Oro,” Quisumbing pointed out. “Rather than focus on direct exports, we studied how we fit into the supply chain,” Quisumbing said. “Given our large coconut production base, for example, there are opportunities for investors in coco semi-processing.” The Mindanao chambers are currently working with local governments and national line agencies to develop investment databases for their respective areas. This would include information on available raw materials, people support, costs of doing business, investment incentives, and other economic and market information. “Some local governments are still not aware of the extent to which their chambers of commerce can help bring in investment,” said Quisumbing. “There has to be a good working relationship between the business community and government to make sure everyone is on the same investment track.” Public-private collaboration is expected to be further bolstered by the recent agreement between PCCI and the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) to share resources and technical expertise to promote investment. This builds on an earlier partnership agreement between the two organizations to jointly formulate policy recommendations for enhancing the competitiveness of key economic sectors. For chamber executives at the Cebu seminar, however, it was clear that a supportive policy framework will best succeed in attracting business to a particular area if its local stakeholders—both government and the private sector—work together to identify and strengthen their comparative advantages.

Two Bible preachers: One unknown, the other famous

by EARL VICTOR L. ROSERO


He boarded the air conditioned bus at the stop under the EDSA Cubao MRT station. Respectably dressed he was in leather shoes, black slacks, and light blue long-sleeved shirt complete with a necktie.He walked down the aisle, stood at the mid-section of the bus and then pulled out of his black bag – a Bible.

The unknown man, Jessie, spoke clearly though he did not or could not make eye contact with the other passengers – most of whom tried to ignore him but the sense of hearing cannot be shut down.

Some of the commuters had earphones on and preferred to look out the window. But every now and then some passengers would sneak a glance at him and seemed to listen.

Gazing at the bus preacher evoked contrasting mental images of another man – world boxing champion Manny Pacquiao – who now adeptly quotes from the Bible by chapter and verses every time the opportunity presents itself.

Evangelization on wheels

The preacher on the bus would later identify himself to GMA News Online as Jesse Gannabon. He said he is a pastor-in-training of the Pentecostal Missionary Church of Christ Fourth Watch with office in Marikina.

Jesse spoke clearly though he did not or could not make eye contact with the other passengers – most of whom tried to ignore him but the sense of hearing cannot be shut down. Some had earphones on and preferred to look out the window.

But every now and then some passengers would sneak a glance at him and seemed to listen.

Jessie’s preaching followed a three-part outline. First, he introduced why he was there. Then he cited a few Bible passages and endeavored to explain them. Lastly, he asked for donations.

After his preaching, Jessie consented to an interview. He said he has been a missionary for three years now of the Pentecostal Fourth Watch.

As the interview proceeded, the other passengers were now intently listening.

He also said he did the preaching on the bus everyday, whole day from about 8 a.m. to late afternoon around 4 p.m.

Jessie said he preached because it was a commandment of God.

As the bus approached the intersection of EDSA and Ortigas Avenue, he collected the envelopes he handed out, thanked the passengers, and got off the bus.

A new calling

Like the bus preacher, Pacquiao quotes the Bible quite often now. But unlike Jesse, Pacquiao has a weekly television variety show and hordes of media people following him every day.

So confident and inspired Pacquiao is about his new calling that he recently led a Bible sharing session on the premises of the GMA Network Center.

Months ago, whenever he got to speak during Mass at Quiapo Church in Manila, he would just give profuse thanks and say that for every big problem, he “has a bigger God.”

Now, the Pacman expertly throws not just punches, but also quick Bible quotes and some advice.

He credits Jeric Soriano, a recently ordained pastor of the Alabang New Life Christian Center, for his being a “changed man” and his newfound love for learning from the Bible.

The Pacman was with Soriano on stage at the ordination last January.

Pacquiao had also revealed that his home has become a venue for Bible study sessions with friends and neighbors in Sarangani province and General Santos City.

Auxiliary Bishop Pablo David of Pampanga has revealed that the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines has asked Pacquiao to be a Bible ambassador of the CBCP.

“Manny has always been very religious and we are happy that he is deepening his faith and his understanding of the Bible,” said David, who is chairman of the CBCP’s Commission on Biblical Apostolate.

“That’s why I asked him if he could partner with us in promoting the reading of the Bible among Catholics,” Bishop David also said. — GMA News

Palace: No Corona connection in BIR actions vs Pacquiao

by LBG, GMA News


Malacañang insisted Saturday there is no connection between the Bureau of Internal Revenue’s tax pursuit against boxing champ and Sarangani Rep. Emmanuel “Manny” Pacquiao with his failure to join the 188 lawmakers who impeached Chief Justice Renato Corona last December.

Deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said all the BIR wants from Pacquiao are tax-related documents, adding there is “nothing more to it.”

“May nagsasabing connected ito sa impeachment, walang ganoon” she said on government-run dzRB radio, adding that Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima himself had said there was no harassment against Pacquiao in the BIR’s actions.

Earlier, Sen. Joker Arroyo questioned the BIR’s action, asking if it was because Pacquiao did not sign the articles of impeachment against Corona.

But House Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. said Arroyo’s suspicion was ridiculous.

The Philippine Daily Inquirer cited a text message from Pacquiao confirming he was not there when the articles of impeachment were signed.

He also said he hoped the case that the BIR brought against him was not related to his failure to join the House majority in impeaching Corona.

Pacquiao was training for his bout with Mexican Juan Miguel Marquez late last year, when the BIR demanded to see his tax returns.

At the time, the BIR’s regional office in Central Mindanao filed a complaint against him for failure to submit complete tax records for 2010.

Pacquiao has reportedly called President Benigno Aquino III for help and asked him to fire BIR Central Mindanao Director Rozil Lozares for harassing him.

Meanwhile, Pacquiao is now preparing for his fight against American Timothy Bradley for his welterweight crown on June 9.

Palace: No Corona connection in BIR actions vs Pacquiao

by LBG, GMA News


Malacañang insisted Saturday there is no connection between the Bureau of Internal Revenue’s tax pursuit against boxing champ and Sarangani Rep. Emmanuel “Manny” Pacquiao with his failure to join the 188 lawmakers who impeached Chief Justice Renato Corona last December.

Deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said all the BIR wants from Pacquiao are tax-related documents, adding there is “nothing more to it.”

“May nagsasabing connected ito sa impeachment, walang ganoon” she said on government-run dzRB radio, adding that Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima himself had said there was no harassment against Pacquiao in the BIR’s actions.

Earlier, Sen. Joker Arroyo questioned the BIR’s action, asking if it was because Pacquiao did not sign the articles of impeachment against Corona.

But House Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. said Arroyo’s suspicion was ridiculous.

The Philippine Daily Inquirer cited a text message from Pacquiao confirming he was not there when the articles of impeachment were signed.

He also said he hoped the case that the BIR brought against him was not related to his failure to join the House majority in impeaching Corona.

Pacquiao was training for his bout with Mexican Juan Miguel Marquez late last year, when the BIR demanded to see his tax returns.

At the time, the BIR’s regional office in Central Mindanao filed a complaint against him for failure to submit complete tax records for 2010.

Pacquiao has reportedly called President Benigno Aquino III for help and asked him to fire BIR Central Mindanao Director Rozil Lozares for harassing him.

Meanwhile, Pacquiao is now preparing for his fight against American Timothy Bradley for his welterweight crown on June 9.







Peeved, Pacquiao wants to pay taxes elsewhere

by Aquiles Z. Zonio, Inquirer Mindanao


GENERAL SANTOS CITY—Boxing sensation and Sarangani Representative Manny Pacquiao now plans to transfer his tax registration to either Manila or Laguna in protest of what he perceived was harassment done by a regional director of the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) against him. In a text message, Pacquiao’s chief of staff Franklin Gacal Jr. confirmed the plan, saying: “We will definitely transfer.” When the Philippine Daily Inquirer asked where, Gacal said “Laguna or Manila.” In 2010, Pacquiao transferred his tax registration from Pasig City to Central Mindanao. But BIR regional director Rozil Lozares, whom Pacquiao accused of railroading the charges against him, was unfazed by the planned transfer. “It’s not a problem. It’s his prerogative where he wants to pay his taxes. But, he can’t do it right now because he has yet to settle his problem with us. If he complies with the requirements, then he can write a letter to the BIR stating the reasons for the transfer. Then, we will evaluate,” Lozares said. Top taxpayer Lozares admitted that Pacquiao was one of the top individual taxpayers in the country. He, however, refused to divulge the exact amount of taxes being paid yearly by the boxing icon. In his 2010 statement of assets, liabilities and net worth (SALN), Pacquiao declared his assets at P1.13 billion ($26.3 million) and no liabilities, making him the country’s richest lawmaker. “The transfer of his tax registration to other place, if ever he can do it, will not affect our revenue collection target,” Lozares said. But Lozares added that Pacquiao should also expect a backlash on his image and political career. “The local taxpayers may question why he is paying his taxes somewhere else when he is living and conducting most of his businesses here,” he said. Lozares said Pacquiao was given three letter-requests and a subpoena before a legal action was initiated against him. The BIR log book showed that lawyer Francisco Gacal, a member of Pacquiao’s battery of lawyers, appeared before the BIR office on February 7 but failed to submit the required books of accounts and accounting records being asked by the BIR. On March 1, the BIR filed a criminal case before the Prosecutor’s Office of Koronadal City against Pacquiao. “If Mr. Pacquiao is not hiding something, then he should submit all the documents required by the BIR. He is a lawmaker and we expect him to respect the law. We are just doing our mandate under the RA 2484 or the National Internal Revenue Code (NIRC),” Lozares said. The BIR official said Pacquiao was just wasting his millions by hiring topnotch lawyers to defend himself. “All he has to do is to submit his financial records and books of accounts then we will withdraw the case filed before the City Prosecutor’s Office at Koronadal City,” Lozares said.

Pacquiao paid less than P7M in taxes for 2010: BIR

by David Dizon, ABS-CBNnews.com


MANILA, Philippines – Sarangani congressman and 8-division boxing champ Manny Pacquiao paid less than P7 million (approximately US$162,999) in income taxes for year 2010, the chief of the Bureau of Internal Revenue said Wednesday.

BIR Commissioner Kim Henares declined to give the exact figure of Pacquiao’s tax payments for 2010 but told ABS-CBNNews.com that “it is lower than P7 million.”

She confirmed that the boxing champ paid P7 million in taxes in 2009, from a high of P100 million in 2008.

Pacquiao earlier declared assets at the end of 2010 at P1.13 billion ($26.3 million) and no liabilities, making him the wealthiest member of the House of Representatives.

Forbes.com magazine estimated he spent $7 million in his election campaign in 2010 while also earning $35 million for his two fights against Joshua Clottey and Miguel Cotto.

Pacquiao has accused the BIR of harassment after it sued the boxing champ for contempt for failure to submit copies of his endorsement contracts and TV deals. He urged the BIR to fire Cotabato Revenue Regional Director Rozel Lozares for filing a case against him.

His lawyer, Abraham Espejo, claimed the boxing champ lost several endorsement deals in the United States because of the tax case.

The BIR chief, however, said she cannot fire Lozares since he followed correct procedure in asking for Pacquiao’s contracts.

“[Pacquiao] has a book of accounts so he has to present that. He also has endorsements so he has to submit his contracts. He has a TV show. He has to submit his contract for that. He said he paid the [Internal Revenue Service]. Then show us the receipts,” Henares told radio dzMM.

Henares said she is surprised that Pacquiao is making a fuss over the tax case when he could just easily submit copies of his contracts. Among the documents the BIR is asking for are Pacquiao’s contracts for his 2010 fights against Joshua Clottey and Antonio Margarito.

Pacquiao also reportedly owns a shopping mall, a building-for-rent, restaurant, beauty salon, convenience store, and a water refilling station in General Santos City.

The BIR filed charges against Pacquiao early March after the boxer allegedly snubbed the agency’s summons to submit certain documents. Pacquiao was charged with violation of Section 266 of the National Internal Revenue Code (NIRC), and if convicted, he can be fined as much as P10,000 and imprisoned for two years.

Henares denied that Lozares held a press conference to announce the filing of a tax case against Pacquiao.

“We had a kickoff ceremony in Koronadal for our tax campaign, which had a presscon afterwards. The media were the first to know about the filing of the case and they asked…It wasn’t a press conference just for Pacquiao,” she said.

She also rejected Pacquiao’s claim that Lozares should have sent the BIR’s summons to Sarangani, where he is congressman, instead of General Santos City.

She said Pacquiao has yet to transfer his tax residency status to Sarangani.

Henares is also puzzled by Pacquiao’s claim that he does not know the person who received the BIR’s summons.

“If he did not know the person who received the letter, how could he be sending his lawyer and his accountant to our office? That means he knows the person,” she said.






Pacquiao eyes suit vs BIR execs for harassment

by Mike Frialde


MANILA, Philippines - Sarangani Rep. Manny Pacquiao yesterday hit the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) for filing what he said was a “harassment case” against him in connection with his alleged refusal to submit documents involving his business interests and income sources that were earlier summoned by the tax collection agency.

Speaking to reporters in Makati City, Pacquiao also dismissed reports that what the BIR had filed against him was neither tax evasion nor tax fraud, but simply for his alleged refusal to submit documents summoned by the BIR.

“The case against me is plain and simple harassment. Contrary to public perception, I am not charged with tax evasion or tax fraud. That is farthest from the truth. Over the years as a boxer, a product endorser and a businessman, I have not surcharged the government for what it is due. Hence, it is with a heavy heart to hear that I was charged with tax evasion or tax fraud. It was even reported in international media that I shall follow Mayweather soon in jail. I don’t have that intention. I would rather see him inside the ring,” he said, referring to the much awaited fight against Floyd Mayweather Jr. who also had some legal issues.

The Filipino boxing icon said that the case the BIR filed against him refers to a violation of Section 266 of the National Internal Revenue Code for alleged failure or refusal to submit more than 62 documents required by the BIR.

Under Section 266 (Failure to Obey Summons), any person who fails to appear to testify, or to appear and produce books of accounts, records, memoranda or other papers, or to furnish information as required by the BIR, could pay a fine of not more than P10,000 and face a prison term of not more than two years.

Pacquiao added that the case filed by the BIR against him was baseless, as he did not personally receive the agency’s letter of authority and the subsequent subpoena.

He said the BIR even violated its own rules when it served the subpoena not on him but on another person not known to him.

He also questioned why the BIR served the subpoena in General Santos City when he is now a resident of Sarangani.

Lawyer Rozil Lozares, BIR Revenue Region 18 director, said they filed charges against Pacquiao last March 1 before the Prosecutor’s Office in Koronadal City in connection with their ongoing investigation into the representative’s tax payments in 2010 based on the income tax returns he filed.

“The BIR said that the case against me is not harassment but the letter (of authority) was sent when I was fighting with Juan Manuel Marquez in Las Vegas, Nevada. I do not know why the BIR is singling me out,” Pacquiao said.

Pacquiao fights back

“The BIR in one instance has tarnished my name by filing a criminal case against me. They value taxes more than the rights of people. Don’t tarnish the names of big taxpayers,” he said.

Pacquiao said he had complied with the BIR’s summons and sent his accountant to Lozares’ office.

However, he said, it was Lozares who was not in his office at the date specified for the submission of the documents.

Pacquiao’s lawyers led by former justice secretary Artemio Toquero said they would question the BIR’s authority to gather evidence against taxpayers.

“We intend to question the validity of the National Internal Revenue Code which gives the BIR authority to gather evidence,” Toquero said.

He said they will contest the validity of the subpoena and will ask the Supreme Court to declare it null and void.

“The subpoena and the letter (of authority) is illegal, the case filed is null and void. We will contest that in the SC,” he said.

Pacquiao hinted that his lawyers would be filing a case of violation of Republic Act 3019 (Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act) against Lozares and other BIR executives.

His lawyer Abraham Espejo, also dean of the New Era College of Law, explained that BIR executives behind the case filed against the boxing champ are liable for causing undue injury to the boxing champ following the pullout of several product endorsements.

Sarangani receives transparent accountable governance award

by (Russell L. Delvo/SARANGANI INFORMATION OFFICE)


ALABEL, Sarangani (March 26, 2012) – Provincial Administrator Vicente Camacho III (right) and Board Member Virgilio Clark Tobias (center) receive the plague of recognition given to the provincial government of Sarangani under the leadership of Gov. Migs Dominguez in recognition of his commitment and dedication to engage in the “Budget Tracking for Transparent Accountable Governance in Mindanao” (BTTAG) during the flag raising ceremony at Capitol Monday morning, March 26. The award was given to Sarangani budget office recently on the occasion of the BTTAG 2nd Policy Dialogue in Davao City. For more news and updates, please visit the <a href= http://www.sarangani.gov.ph/ > Province of Sarangani </a>. Come and enjoy Sarangani Bay Festival on May 18-19, 2012.






Experience This Paradise In Sarangani

by ARMANDO A. MORTEJO


MANILA, Philippines — "A thing of beauty is a joy forever.” When poet John Keats wrote that famous line, he might have been thinking of the Lemlunay Dive Resort in barangay Kamanga in Maasim, Sarangani.

Lemlunay is a T’boli and B’laan word for “paradise.” Judging from the breathtaking view (it is situated on a cliff overlooking the beautiful waters of Sarangani Bay to the left and the Sulawesi Sea to the right) and the wonderful underwater experience the resort offers, it is indeed a heaven of sorts.

I was supposed to attend the Kalilangan Festival in General Santos City but because the street dancing was scheduled on a Monday and there was nothing to do on Sunday, my good friend Andrew J. Dorego decided to bring me to this gem of a resort.

The travel from the city to the place took us about 45 minutes. But the road trip was scenic. It reminded me of my trip along the shores of Superior Lake going to Duluth, Minnesota. Imagine a beautiful deep blue sea on your left and mountains with various karsts on your right. The road was smoothly paved and beautiful green trees lined the highway. A bonus: few houses along the road.

The trip was fleeting. I didn’t know what to expect as we entered the place. We paid our entrance fee (P100 per person, which is consumable) and went straight ahead to the restaurant. After we ordered our food, we immediately began our familiarization tour.

Andrew and his girlfriend (Apple Joy Ochoa), who had been to the place before, served as my guides. Deo Sunico, a high school classmate of Andrew who tagged along with us, also helped in showing it off.

Unlike most beach resorts, there is no sandy beachfront. However, Lemlunay’s pristine greenish-blue waters teeming with beautiful marine life more than made up for the lack of luxurious resort amenities.

From the al fresco restaurant, guests can get a glimpse of the white sand beaches in other parts of Sarangani, particularly Gumasa in Glan. Its ambience is comparable to those places featured in Greek and Mediterranean films.

One of the resort’s interesting features is the infinity pool, where visitors can take a dip. There’s an area for kids and the deepest spot is about seven feet. “We went to the infinity pool after snorkeling and took lots of pictures,” one visitor wrote. “We love the view from the pool to the sea. It simply felt relaxing and calm.”

Guests won't get bored while at the resort since it has a myriad of activities available for everyone. Those who don’t feel like snorkeling or diving can rent their Hobie cats (catamarans) for a measly P1500 (maximum of six passengers for 30 minutes).

Lemlunay used to be the vacation resort of Paul Partridge and his family. Later, he established the South Point Divers, which offers a number of services that suit hard-core divers and weekend enthusiasts alike. Activity offerings include PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) courses, snorkeling and guided diving, among others.

“Each dive comes with tanks, weights, dive guide and chase boat to make your diving experience more enjoyable,” says its website. “Our staff are ready to cater to your schedule 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Be one of our many satisfied clients from all over the world.”

Sarangani Bay, declared a marine sanctuary, has a wealth of good diving sites and one of them is located in the huge Tinoto Wall, which runs about 10 kilometers along the bay in front of the dive resort. The wall drops off well over 50 meters about 10 to 20 meters from shore.

According to those who have dived in the area, a wide variety of hard and soft coral, huge gorgonian corals, sponges and an endless array of reef life can be found in the waters. Pelagics are also a common site. Divers can also expect to see turtles, rays, rainbow runners, groupers, snappers and patrols of sergeant majors. The majestic Napoleon Wrasse is also frequently seen on the house reef.

Here’s an observation of a blogger who had dived the area: “A short distance from the cliff’s side, the bottom of the sea drops dramatically to about 30 feet, then a coral wall presents itself with marine life all a-bustle. The variegated colors on the fish and on the coral is a delight against the backdrop of soft-hued sand and dark-toned rock that dot the seascape.”

Another one said: “My entire Lemlunay experience is surreal. I can’t believe I swam with Nemo and his friends!” (Nemo was the leading character in the award-winning film, Finding Nemo.)

We ended our short visit with a lunch at the restaurant. And yes, we enjoyed the food since we were hungry and thirsty.

On Socoteco-SEC power sales bid: Oppositors no show in ERC pre-trial hearing

by Edwin Espejo


Opposition groups and intervenors in the power sales application between the South Cotabato II Electric Cooperative (Socoteco II) and Sarangani Energy Corporation (SEC) in the Philippines failed to appear in the March 22 pre-trial hearing set by the Energy Regulatory Commission prompting the energy body to reset the hearing for March 29.

Only the lawyers of the National Grid Corporation of the Philippines (NGCP), which filed a separate intervention, and the representatives of the power sales applicants were present during the hearing.

Commissioners Gloria Victoria Yap-Taruc and Ma. Teresa Castañeda instead requested Socoteco II general manager Rodolfo Ocat to furnish all intervenors copies of the order on the new dates of the hearing.

The commissioners said they decided not proceed with the pre-trial hearing to avoid more “contentious issues” arising from the failure of the opposition to appear in the hearing.

Among those who are opposing the 70-megawatt power sales agreement between Socoteco II and Sarangani Energy are the city government of General Santos, Freedom from Debt Coalition, private intervenor Dominador Lagare and residents of Polomolok, South Cotabato.

The Socoteco II franchise covers General Santos City, Sarangani, and the towns of Polomolok and Tupi of South Cotabato.

The ERC earlier dismissed the petition of Eduardo Alegre et al, all residents of Polomolok, to declare the power sales agreement (PSA) between Socoteco II and SEC null and void.

In dismissing the petition of Alegre et al, the ERC said the former’s allegations were “bereft of merit and their allegation that the award of the PSA to CHC is highly irregular, immoral, unlawful, an abuse of authority and a grave misconduct…is untenable.”

Alegre, as well as other members of the opposition, claimed the assignment of the contract from Conal Holdings Corporation (CHC) to SEC was irregular considering that the latter was a newly formed corporation with an authorized capitalization of only P5,000,000.

The power sales contract between Socoteco II and SEC covers 25 years.

Socoteco II has a baseload capacity of at least 70 megawatts and a peaking load of up to 105 megawatts.

It sells an average of 526 million kilowatt hours of electricity to its 126,000 consumers a month.

CHC was the original party to the PSA with Socoteco II.

Conal Holdings however assigned its rights and obligation to SEC, the implementing arm of its 200-megawatt coal-fired power plant project in Maasim, Sarangani, and submitted the appropriate amendments to the original contract to the ERC.

CHC is the holdings company of the power business of the Alcantara and Sons Development Corporation. CHC also owns and operates the Western Mindanao Power Corporation and the Southern Philippines Power Corporation, both separately running 55-megawatt diesel-fired power plants.

Socoteco II earlier appealed for support to the PSA it has entered into with CHC/SEC.

Ocat said unless the cooperative is able to secure long term power supply contract, the city could suffer from two to six-hour brownouts beginning next year.

South Cotabato clinches 2012 CRAA meet overall championship

by (PNA)

LDV/AVE/HST


GENERAL SANTOS CITY, March 22 – Host South Cotabato province unleashed several upsets in various team events on Wednesday as it clinched anew the overall championship of the Cotabato Regional Athletic Association (CRAA) meet for the second consecutive year. South Cotabato made strong finishes in baseball, basketball, tennis, softball and volleyball to pace this year’s regional games with a total of 601 points based on the Department of Education’s (DepEd) scoring system. CRAA or Region 12 comprises the provinces of South Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, North Cotabato and the cities of General Santos, Koronadal, Kidapawan, Cotabato and Tacurong. The CRAA meet was held for the second consecutive year at the South Cotabato Sports Complex in Koronadal City. General Santos City, which drew solid performances from its taekwondo, gymnastics, chess and badminton teams, settled for the second place with 493 points. Cotabato province finished third with 386.5 points followed by Koronadal City with 347.5, Sarangani with 252, Cotabato City with 214.67, Sultan Kudarat with 157, Kidapawan City with 138 and Tacurong City with 34. Based on a report released by DepEd Region 12, South Cotabato topped the elementary and secondary division events with 311 and 290.67 points, respectively. Among its notable wins were the 10 gold medals in athletics and another three in boxing, said DepEd Region 12 director Deborah Adrales. She said the host province’s boxing team took the overall championship in the ring event from defending champion General Santos City. Adrales said Koronadal City made an overwhelming performance this year in swimming by emerging as champion in elementary boys as well as secondary boys and girls divisions. She said they also gave out minor awards to the Sultan Kudarat delegation for the best in uniform; South Cotabato as the cleanest delegation; Sarangani province as the jolliest delegation;and, Cotabato province as most disciplined delegation.

ARMM holds first education, health summit in Zamboanga

by Hader Glang


Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) Officer-In-Charge (OIC) Regional Governor Mujiv S. Hataman met yesterday local government, health and education officials as well as private partners "Synergeia" Foundation Inc. for the first ARMM education and health summit.

Held at Garden Orchid Hotel in Zamboanga City, the summit tackled the state of basic education in the provinces of Basilan, Sulu, Tawi-Tawi and programs that worked and response to the challenges in basic education in BaSulTa and what works in promoting maternal and children's health.

Sarangani Province Gov. Miguel Dominguez, Mayor Hussin Amin of Jolo, Sulu; ARMM DepEd Sec. Jamar Kulayan, Mayor Allandatu Angas of Sultan Sabarongis, ARMM Health Sec. Kadil Sinolinding and ARMM DILG Sec. Haroun Alrashid Lucman were the resource speakers.

During the summit, a group workshop, health and education proposals for ARMM local development, and briefing on program HEAL were conducted.

It asked questions on "What the doable targets/results in health education?", "What the ARMM leaders can achieve in the next 14 months?", "What activities/programs can they do together to attain these targets?", "What support/commitment can be given by the ARMM regional government, LGUs, DepEd, DOH, and partners from the private sector?"

In an impromptu speech, Hataman exposed the anomalies or corruption in the education sector in the autonomous region, particularly the so-called ghost students, ghost employees, ghost schools and padded payrolls.

“Isa sa pinaka malaking problema sa ARMM ay ang DepEd. Kaya nuong umupo po tayo ang unang pinagtuunan ko ng pansin ay Department of Education," he said, as he stressed that education affects health.

Hataman said he is convinced of the idea of Synergeia that education reform cannot be carried out by DepEd alone, it needs the involvement of others.

Synergeia way aims to discover obstacles to quality education in each municipality by collaborating with communities It also works with local government governments to put basic education at the center of their governance agenda.

It also believes that quality education is the best antidote to poverty and that local governments are the best entry points in transforming public education.

Study showed that of the 10 elementary school students, only three graduate in grade six in ARMM. In the Philippines, 26.5% are living in poverty, while in ARMM of the 10 people, five of them are poor.

Poverty in ARMM worsened in 2009 which posted 45.9% from 31.4% in 2003.

A paradise in Sarangani

by Henrylito D. Tacio


"A THING of beauty is a joy forever." When poet John Keats wrote that famous line, he may be thinking of the Lemlunay Dive Resort inbarangay Kamanga of Maasim, Sarangani.

Lemlunay is a T'boli and B'laan word for "paradise." Judging from the breathtaking view (it is situated on a cliff overlooking the beautiful waters of Sarangani Bay to the left and the Sulawesi Sea to the right) and the wonderful underwater experience the resort offers, it is indeed a heaven of sort.

I was supposed to attend the Kalilangan Festival in General Santos City but because the street dancing was scheduled on a Monday and there was nothing to do on Sunday, my good friend Andrew J. Dorego decided to bring me this gem of a resort.

The travel from the city to the place took us about forty-five minutes. But the road trip was scenic. It reminded me of my trip along the shores of Superior Lake going to Duluth, Minnesota. Imagine a beautiful deep blue sea on your left and mountains on your right with various karsts. The road pavement was great and beautiful green trees line along the highway. A bonus: few houses along the road.

The trip was fleeting. I didn't know what to expect as we entered the place. We paid our entrance fee (P100 per person, which is consumable) and went straight ahead to the restaurant. After we ordered our foods, we immediately made our familiarization tour.

Andrew and his girlfriend (Apple Joy Ochoa), who had been to the place before, served as my guide. Deo Sunico, a high school classmate of Andrew who tagged along with us, also helped explain about the place.

Unlike most beach resorts, there is no sandy beachfront. However, Lemlunay's pristine greenish-blue waters, sprawling with beautiful marine life more than make up for the lack of luxurious resort amenities.

From the al fresco restaurant, you get a glimpse of the white sand beaches in other parts of Sarangani, particularly Gumasa in Glan. Its ambiance is comparable to those places featured in Greek and Mediterranean films.

One of the resort's interesting features is the infinity pool, where visitors can take a dip. There's an area for kids and the deepest spot is about seven feet. "We went to the infinity pool after snorkeling and took lots of pictures," one visitor wrote. "We love the view from the pool to the sea. It simply felt relaxing and calm."

You don't get tired while at the resort since it has a myriad of activities available for everyone. If you don't feel like snorkeling or diving, you can rent their hobie cat for a measly P1500 (maximum for 6 passengers for 30 minutes).

Lemlunay used to be the vacation resort of Paul Partridge and his family. Later, he established the South Point Divers, which offers a number of services that suit hard-core divers and weekend enthusiasts alike. Activity offerings include PADI (Professional Association of Diving Instructors) courses, snorkeling, and guided diving, among others.

"Each dive comes with tanks, weights, dive guide and chase boat to make your diving experience more enjoyable," says its website. "Our staffs are ready to cater to your schedule 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Be one of our many satisfied clients from all over the world."

Sarangani Bay, declared a marine sanctuary, has a wealth of good diving sites and one of them is located in the huge Tinoto Wall, which runs about 10 kilometers along the bay in front of the dive resort. The wall drops off well over 50 meters about 10 to 20 meters from shore.

According to those who have dived in the area, a wide variety of hard and soft coral, huge gorgonians, sponges and an endless array of reef life can be found in the waters. Pelagics are also a common site. Divers can also expect to see turtles, rays, rainbow runners, groupers, snappers and patrols of sergeant majors. The majestic Napoleon Wrasse is also frequently seen on the house reef.

Here's a report of a blogger who had dived the area: "A short distance from the cliff's side, the bottom of the sea drops dramatically to about 30 feet, then a coral wall presents itself with marine life all a-bustle. The variegated colors on the fish and on the coral is a delight against the backdrop of soft-hued sand and dark-toned rock that dot the seascape."

Another one said: "My entire Lemlunay experience is surreal. I can't believe I swam with Nemo and his friends!" (Nemo was the leading character in the award-winning film, Finding Nemo.)

We ended our short visit with a lunch at the restaurant. And yes, we enjoyed the foods since were hungry and thirsty.

12,874 Household Benefited From Electrification Program In Mindanao

by MIKE U. CRISMUNDO


Todate, the SEP project has already energized 545 far-flung and remotest sitios in Mindanao.

The SEP is a rural electrification program of the government that will energize far-flung areas throughout the country.

Late last year, the NEA, in partnership with 96 electric cooperatives nationwide had already energized 1, 520 sitios (villages) benefiting some 33, 189 households.

The Agusan del Norte Electric Cooperative (ANECO) alone, 35 sitios were already energized and benefiting 2, 086 households.

This year, ANECO is targeting more than 2, 156 households to be benefited of the SEP program.

The seven electric cooperatives in Northeastern Mindanao (Caraga region) have already energized more than 102 far-flung sitios and puroks.

“We are committed to energize more far-flung sitios and puroks in the coming months as part of our commitment to help the Aquino Administration’s SEP program,” said ANECO general manager (GM) and president of the association of Caraga region electric cooperatives Architect Horacio T. Santos.

There are 32,403 sitios all over the country without power. The bulk of the fund amounting to Php 116.9M will go to Northern Mindanao to electrify 184 sitios. Bicol Region is allotted Php 84.8M to energize 136 sitios while Php 74.4M will go to the Caraga region to power up 103 sitios.

Meanwhile, in an effort to have uninterrupted power supply in the future, the ANECO on Saturday inked a 25-year Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for a 10 megawatt power supply from the Sarangani Energy Corporation, starting 2015.

The ceremonial signing of agreement was presented by GM Santos, ANECO board president Dioscoro P. Boco, Sarangani Vice President- Business department Joseph C. Nocos and Sarangani Head for Marketing Edgardo C. Calabio.

Coco leaf beetles infest farms in 12 towns

by Bong S. Sarmiento


KORONADAL CITY -- Coconut leaf beetles are threatening coconut farms in Central Mindanao or the Soccsksargen Region, as they already infested at least 12 towns in the region's four provinces, officials said Thursday.

Amalia J. Datukan, Department of Agriculture (DA)-Soccsksargen director, said the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) and the Regional Crop Protection Center (RCPC) have noted the rapid Brontispa longissima infestation in parts of the region.

"Brontispa infestation has been observed to be quickly increasing in the region, particularly in the town of Malungon in Sarangani," Datukan said.

Malungon has vast mango plantations, and because of regular chemical sprayings, parasitoids used to address the Brontispa infestation could not thrive, she explained, citing a report from the Sarangani Integrated Pest Management office.

Brontispa or coconut leaf beetle feed on young leaves and damages seedlings and mature coconut palms. This insect belongs to the order Coleoptera and Chrysomelidae family along with a number of beetle species.

Citing a PCA report, Datukan identified the towns infested with Brontispa as Tampakan, Tupi, Polomolok and Koronadal City in South Cotabato and Libungan, Midsayap, Antipas and Kidapawan in North Cotabato.

The others are Malungon and Glan in Sarangani and Lutayan and Columbio in Sultan Kudarat.

Glan, touted as the "Coconut Queen of the South," is one of the largest coconut producing towns in the region.

Elvira de Silva, PCA regional manager, said there is a need to establish more parasitoid laboratories to address the Brontispa infestation, especially in areas close to towns that have been infested.

Parasitoids are organisms that ultimately sterilize and consume the host, and are similar to typical parasites, the DA said.

In North Cotabato, where 2.71 percent of the total coconut trees have been infested by Brontispa, the PCA has set up six parasitoid laboratories, de Silva said.

But other than Brontispa, North Cotabato farmers feared that Asiatic palm weevil could infest their crops, the DA regional office said.

Asiatic palm weevil (Rhabdoscelus lineatocollis (Heller)) is a newly discovered coconut pest that damages the stems, reduces yield, or kills seedlings and young palms.

In Malungon, Sarangani, coconut farmers are using chemicals and the cut-and-burn method to address the Brontispa infestation.

The Sarangani agriculture office said the cut-and-burn method could be an effective way to stem the spread of brontispa to other towns.

It has likewise recommended the establishment of parasitoid laboratories in the towns of Maitum, Kiamba and Maasim, which remained free of Brontispa.

Datukan said the RCPC, which is attached to the DA, has been culturing parasitoids to help eradicate the Brontispa problem.

Pacman told to hold his P75-M ‘punch’ on newsman

by Neil A. Alcober


Pound-for-pound ring icon and eight-division world boxing champion and lawmaker Manny Pacquiao was goaded to his hold punches on a newsman.


The Center for International Law (CenterLaw) Executive Director Atty. Romel Regalado Bagares on Tuesday urged boxing sensation and Sarangani Rep. Manny Pacquiao to withdraw the complaint he filed against the General Santos City-based freelance journalist Edwin Espejo, in connection with the latter’s reportage linking former Presidential Anti-Smuggling Group official Mohammad “Bong” Akia –wanted by police for carnapping – to the boxing champion.

The center is extending a legal assistance to Espejo who is facing a P75-million libel suit thrown at him by the Sarangani lawmaker.

Bagares said that Pacquiao can even lead the way by supporting or filing a bill to decriminalize Philippine libel laws.

The legal team of the Sarangani congressman and boxing legend filed the case on March 5, over Espejo’s article which said sources had informed him that Akia had been staying in Pacquiao’s mansion even as police were closely monitoring the former Presidential Anti-Smuggling Group official’s movements.

The pieces were published under the headlines “Stolen car dealer finds refuge in Pacman mansion” on the Asian Correspondent site, and “Dealer of stolen cars last seen in Pacman mansion” on MindaNews.

Espejo cited reports that Akia (or Aquia) was seen with Pacquaio on a flight from Manila to General Santos City, and that the two departed in the same car for Pacquiao’s mansion. Akia/Aquia has not been seen since.

According to Bagares, Espejo sought the congressman’s side to the story, but could not reach him as Pacquiao was then abroad. Espejo then spoke with a lawyer for Pacquiao, who denied that the congressman had anything to do with Akia.

The National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) has also urged Pacquiao to reconsider the case saying he is in a good position to set an example for other politicians to emulate: “It would be a shame if Pacquiao should risk his well-deserved reputation by succumbing to the same urge that has seen abusive official after abusive official resorting to our draconian criminal libel law — or even worse measures — to stifle reasonable criticism and critical coverage.”

NUJP also urged Pacquiao to drop the case, and renewed its call for the decriminalization of libel in a report on Mindanews.

Espejo heads the NUJP chapter for South Cotabato, Sarangani and General Santos City. Early this year, the UNHRC declared that the Philippines breached its obligations under the ICCPR when Davao City-based broadcast journalist Alex Adonis was sent to prison in connection with a libel suit filed against him by then Speaker Prospero Nograles over what has come to be known as the “Burlesque King scandal.”

The view is the Committee’s ruling on CenterLaw’s petition filed in mid-2008 on behalf of Adonis. According to the UNHRC, the country’s criminal libel law is “incompatible” with Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil Political Rights, which protects the right to free expression and opinion.

Adonis was represented in the proceedings before the UNHCR by CenterLaw’s chief counsel lawyer Harry Roque. CenterLaw, a human rights organization dedicated to the promotion of free expression, is a charter member of the Southeast Asia Media Defense Network, an alliance of regional lawyers’ and media advocacy groups providing legal support to journalists facing legal persecution for the work they do.

According to CenterLaw, free expression advocacy groups see the UNHRC’s pronouncement in the Alex Adonis case as a landmark holding, as it was the very first declaration by the human rights body on the incompatibility of criminal libel laws with the right of free expression.

29 NPA rebels yield in Sarangani in two months

by (PNA)

LDV/AVE


GENERAL SANTOS CITY, March 13 (PNA) -- A total of 29 New People’s Army (NPA) rebels under units operating in the provinces of Sarangani and Davao del Sur provinces have yielded to government forces in the area in the last two months.

Lt. Col Adolfo Espuelas Jr., commander of the Army’s 73rd Infantry Battalion (IB), said most of the surrenderees decided to lay down their arms and renew their allegiance to the government following negotiations conducted by their personnel and other local officials in the area.

“This is mainly the result of our continuing peace and development initiatives, which is now the main focus of our counter-insurgency operations,” he said.

In the last two weeks, 11 rebels reportedly under the NPA’s Front 71 separately surrendered to government troops in the municipalities of Glan, Alabel and Malapatan, he said.

Espuelas said among the reasons given by the former NPA rebels in deciding to yield were their difficult situation in the mountains and the risks they were facing.

“Most of the time they don’t have enough food to eat and they were constantly moving from one place to another,” the official said.

He said several others cited as reason for their fallout was the uncertainty of their cause and concerns with the safety and welfare of their families that were left behind.

Espuelas said the surrenderees, who each yielded a firearm, were now undergoing “processing” for their inclusion in the national government’s continuing integration program for rebel returnees.

He said they also received relief and financial assistance from the Sarangani provincial government and other concerned agencies.

“We’re looking at providing them with some livelihood assistance to help them start anew with their lives,” Espuelas said.

Espuelas said they expect more NPA rebels to also surrender in the coming months as they continue with the implementation of various peace and development works in the area.

Since last year, the 73rd IB shifted the focus of their counter-insurgency operations to peace and development in a bid to encourage more rebels to surrender and return to the fold of the law.

Such effort was endorsed by Sarangani officials led by Rep. Emmanuel Pacquiao, who offered to help provide livelihood assistance for the rebel returnees.

Civilian hurt in NPA harassment in Sarangani

by (PNA)

DCT/LAM/AVE


GENERAL SANTOS CITY, March 12 (PNA) -– A civilian was injured as suspected New People’s Army (NPA) rebels harassed over the weekend two remote communities in Malungon town in Sarangani province.

Lt. Col. Adolfo Espuelas Jr., commander of the Army’s 73rd Infantry Battalion, said Monday they received reports that around 20 NPA rebels separately fired at residents of Sitios Makalong and Danao in Barangay Lutay of Malungon on Sunday.

The area is located near the boundaries of Malungon and nearby Malita town in Davao del Sur, he said,

Espuelas said a local resident only identified as a certain Muda was hit on the side of his body during the attack.

Citing intelligence reports, he said the attackers allegedly belong to Platoon Lawin of the NPA’s Guerilla Front 71 that operates in the provinces of Sarangani and Davao del Sur.

“The harassment actually happened on the 40th day of the killing of a local NPA leader in an earlier encounter with our troops,” he said in a radio interview.

Espuelas said they conducted offensive operations in the area last Jan. 30 that resulted to the killing of several suspected NPA rebels.

As a result of the incident, the official said he has dispatched additional personnel to the area to secure the residents and communities as well as hunt down the perpetrators. (PNA) DCT/LAM/AVE







PACQUIAO URGED TO DROP LIBEL CASE VS GENSAN JOURNALIST

by ABS-CBNNEWS.COM


MANILA, Philippines – The National Union of Journalist in the Philippines (NUJP) urged boxing superstar and Sarangani congressman Manny Pacquiao to withdraw his P75-million libel case against General Santos City-based reporter Edwin Espejo.

Continue reading Pacquiao urged to drop libel case vs Gensan journalist at ABS-CBNNews.com (source) or access more Latest Sports News articles.





Boy with glaucoma shows loss of sight is not barrier

by Aquiles Z. Zonio

Philippine Daily Inquirer


ALABEL, Sarangani—Fifteen-year-old Steven Valdepeñas may have lost his eyesight but not his dream and self-confidence. Steven had proven that having congenital glaucoma was not an obstacle to academic excellence. On Jan. 18, he topped one of the nationwide elimination rounds of the Metrobank Math Challenge (MMC), which is jointly undertaken by Metrobank, Math Teachers’ Association of the Philippines and the Department of Education. Steven’s achievement was the first time a visually impaired student placed high in the 11-year history of MMC. MMC was previously held only in the National Capital Region, but it was expanded in 2001 to include elementary and high school students nationwide. The annual contest produces national winners who get the rare chance to compete and eventually win in international competitions. Steven, a graduating elementary student at Alabel Central Integrated Special Education Center, bested 15 other contestants during the elimination round for Grade 6 in the district of East Alabel in January. In Sarangani province, he was among 234 students who passed the MMC. His teachers and family said despite his visual problem, Steven always excelled in academics, especially in Math, his most favorite subject. He has already won several awards in competitions. Aside from being a Math whiz, Steven was also declared best orator at a competition staged by the Davao City-based Resources for the Blind Inc. (RBI) last year. Gemima F. Casalan, the boy’s class adviser, said Steven’s confidence has not waned even with his difficulty. “Despite his visual infirmity, he has no inferiority complex. He’s a fast learner, hardworking and humble,” Casalan said. She said in her 11 years of teaching visually impaired students, she has not encountered anybody like Steven. “He is one of a kind. He could barely read when he transferred to our school three years ago. But I immediately noticed his innate talent. So, we gave him the support he needs and we encouraged him to join competitions,” Casalan said. Among those who encouraged the boy, she said, was Glenda Morales, the principal of Alabel Central Elementary School. Casalan said to help Steven, she personally sought the help of Sarangani Vice Gov. Steve Chiongbian-Solon, who donated a Braille writer to the boy. During the MMC, the questions were translated into Braille by teacher and 2001 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Teacher award winner Evelyn Caja of Ramon Magsaysay High School in Manila. Aniceto Sobrepeña, the Metrobank Foundation president, said he was very impressed by Steven’s showing in the contest. “The participation of Steven, a visually impaired pupil from Sarangani, is remarkable and is something we ardently embrace,” he said in a statement. Sobrepeña said Steven’s remarkable performance during the contest proved once again that disability is never a hindrance to academic excellence.

Pacquiao urged to drop libel raps vs journalist

by Malu Cadeliña Manar


KIDAPAWAN CITY -- The National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) urged Sarangani Representative and boxing champion Emmanuel "Manny" Pacquiao to drop the three-count, P75-million libel suit he filed against journalist Edwin Espejo.

Espejo chairs the NUJP General Santos City chapter.

NUJP national chair Nestor Burgos, in a statement issued Wednesday, said Pacquiao erred in suing Espejo and that seeking compensation is “patently outrageous”.

The libel case stemmed from Espejo’s articles about how a man who is allegedly running a carjacking syndicate supposedly sought refuge in Pacquiao's General Santos home to evade arrest.

Espejo’s articles were published on the news sites of the Mindanews, Asian Correspondent and Eurasia Review.

The alleged carjacker, Mohammad "Bong" Aquia, former head of the Presidential Anti-Smuggling Group in Central Mindanao, also sued Espejo for libel and sought P18 million.

In his articles, Espejo clearly indicated that he was quoting reports posted February 26 on www.journal.com.ph and that he tried to seek Pacquiao's side.

Espejo wrote that the boxing champion was unreachable for comment since he is in the US promoting his June 9 fight against Timothy Bradley.

He, however, sought Pacquiao's lawyer, Francisco "Bong" Gacal, who said he was not aware of the reports about Aquia.

Espejo said Gacal also promised to inform Pacquiao of the reports.

Espejo, meanwhile, cited statements by ranking Philippine National Police officials about Aquia’s alleged illegal activities.

He also detailed the charges of violating the Anti-Carnapping Law filed by the Highway Patrol Group against Aquia.

But while questions may certainly be raised about Espejo's articles, libel is clearly not one of them, the NUJP statement said.

The statement said that Espejo’s efforts to get Pacquiao's side clearly show that the journalist did not write the articles with malice, which is a requisite for libel.

“In fact, the unreasonable damages sought by Pacquiao can be argued to be frivolous and intended not so much to collect the amount he demands but to harass Espejo and tie him up in the legal proceedings,” the group said.

“It would be a shame if Pacquiao should risk his well-deserved reputation by succumbing to the same urge that has seen abusive official after abusive official resorting to our draconian criminal libel law -- or even worse measures -- to stifle reasonable criticism and critical coverage," the NUJP statement added.

With what happened to Espejo, the NUJP has again urged the government to decriminalize libel. (Sun.Star Davao/Sunnex)

Pacman files libel case vs GenSan journalist

by Keith Bacongco


DAVAO CITY, Philippines – Seasoned journalist Edwin Espejo respected the right of Saragani Rep. Manny Pacquiao to lodge a libel case against him, but said a battery of women lawyers volunteered their services for the case.

The case stemmed from the stories of Espejo claiming that a carjacker who has been allegedly running a syndicate supposedly sought refuge in Pacquiao’s General Santos home to evade arrest.

Espejo, who has been a journalist since 1987, said it was however unfortunate that Pacquiao filed the libel case adding that it was never his intention to taint the reputation of the boxing star

“If he felt he was slighted, offended and hurt by the story, he is well within his right to file a libel case,” he pointed out.

As this developed, the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) is urging the boxing champion turned lawmaker to drop the three-count P75-million libel suit he filed against Espejo.

The NUJP described the damage suit as unreasonable but intended not so much to collect the amount he demands but to harass Espejo and tie him up in the legal proceedings.

“We firmly believe Pacquiao errs in suing Mr. Espejo and seeking compensation that is patently outrageous,” said NUJP chair Nestor Burgos in a statement.

The alleged carjacker, Mohammad “Bong” Aquia, former head of the Presidential Anti-Smuggling Group in Central Mindanao, also sued Espejo for libel and sought P18 million.

“Although Espejo wrote that the boxing champion was unreachable for comment since he is in the US promoting his June 9 fight against Timothy Bradley, he did seek out Pacquiao’s lawyer, Francisco “Bong” Gacal who said he was not aware of reports Aquia had sought refuge in Pacquiao’s home,” said Burgos.

Espejo, a former editor of Sunstar General Santos, said that he did the story because he believed that he was doing it for public interest because Pacquiao is both a public figure and a public official.

Pacquiao camp: 70-30 split for winner offered to Mayweather

by ADRIAN DY, GMA NEWS


Team Pacquiao has reached out to Floyd Mayweather Jr. with an offer of 70 percent of the pay-per-view (PPV) money going to the winner of a possible bout between Manny Pacquiao and the undefeated American fighter, Pacquiao business advisor Rex "Wakee" Salud confirmed to GMA News Online.

The 70-30 split is the latest in the back-and-forth negotiations between the two factions, as money has become the latest stumbling block to getting the fight, boxing fans all over the world wanted to see, off the ground.


Mayweather first called Pacquiao personally, and offered the Sarangani congressman a flat $40 million amount to fight him, with the Grand Rapids, Michigan native keeping the entirety of the PPV money.

Top Rank CEO and Pacquiao promoter Bob Arum countered with a $50 million offer to Mayweather with Pacquiao getting the PPV proceeds, but that too was rejected by the five-division world champion.

The Pacquiao side then put on the table a 55-45 split, with the winner bagging the larger amount of the pot, but it was turned down again by Mayweather.

Afterwards, Mayweather announced that he was filling his May 5 contractual obligation with Miguel Cotto, while Pacquiao settled for Timothy Bradley Jr.

Salud is hopeful that this latest offer of a 70-30 split will be enough to entice Mayweather to arrange a fight date after "Money" serves his jail term for domestic abuse, but Mayweather has been adamant about getting the entire PPV pie, no questions asked.

In an interview with Bob Costas on NBC Sports, Mayweather said, "How my deal is structured at this particular time in the sport of boxing, I keep 100 percent of the revenue. So why should I even give a guy 50-50 if I'm out there?"

"I have record breaking numbers that I've done. He has no record breaking numbers. With or without Pacquiao, Floyd Mayweather is okay."

Salud first broke news of the negotiations on the radio station DZSR 918.

In the past, Floyd Mayweather demanded that Pacquiao accept strict, Olympic-style drug testing. Eventually, Pacquiao accepted, as long as a neutral organization other than the US Anti-Doping Agency, did the tests.

Last January, Mayweather called Pac-man out repeatedly on Twitter, but this time, the bone of contention was the date of the fight. Mayweather wanted it to happen on May 5 at the MGM Grand to fulfill a contract he had signed, but Arum insisted on pushing the date back in order to construct an outdoor arena that would increase the number of seats and revenue.

Mayweather though, will be serving time starting in June, after a judge allowed his jail term for domestic abuse to be pushed back. — JVP, GMA News

Alsons to add power capacity

by Doris C. Dumlao

Philippine Daily Inquirer


Holding firm Alsons Consolidated Resources Inc. plans to build 600 megawatts in additional coal-fired power generating capacity in Mindanao within the next five years. In an interview on Friday at the sidelines of a mining forum, ACR chief finance officer Luis Ymson Jr. said that the first phase of the project, involving a coal-fired power plant in Maasim, Sarangani, would soon begin. Alsons still has to choose a partner with which to undertake the $280-million project. The company is considering between Japan’s Toyota Tsusho and Thailand’s Electricity Generating Pcl (EGCO), Ymson said. “If we start this year, we’ll be operational by 2014,” he said. The company hopes to seal the power deal with the strategic investor by end-April, Ymson said. ACR will get a 75-percent stake in the project while the foreign partner will acquire the remaining 25 percent. Of the $280-million power plant cost for the first phase of the Sarangani project, Ymson said 30 percent would be funded by equity and the remainder would be funded using debt. “It’s likely that whoever will be our partner in Sarangani will be our partner in the succeeding projects,” Ymson said. ACR is also building a 100-MW coal-fired power plant in Zamboanga, which will replace an existing 100-MW diesel plant. The old plant will be kept as backup to cover any spike in demand during peak hours, Ymson said. After putting up the combined 300 MW in additional capacity in Sarangani and Zamboanga City, Ymson said the group’s capacity would be doubled with the planned 300-MW coal-fired power plant to be put up near the Tampakan mining site in South Cotabato. ACR has a 19-percent interest in Australian mining firm Indophil Resources NL which, in turn, owns 37.8 percent of Tampakan operator Sagittarius Mines. It takes about three years to build a new power plant from scratch, Ymson explained. Apart from the 100-MW diesel-plant in Zamboanga, ACR has another 55 MW diesel-fired plant in General Santos. It is also buying back a 100-MW power plant foreclosed by the local government of Iligan City from the National Power Corp. ACR is also developing renewable energy projects, but Ymson said the company’s immediate priorities were the coal-fired power plants. Currently under development are the Siguil 17-MW hydropower project, also in Maasim, and another 40 MW plant in Negros Oriental.

Small man’s voice leads to big leaps in community

by Published in the Sun.Star Cebu newspaper


CALL him “small” and Fr. Angelo “Angel” R. Buenavides will not mind.

After all, that is what he believes he is—a small man trying to make little contributions in the greater scheme of things, with the help of God and the people around him.

The young Angelo was attracted to the priesthood as early as six years old, after seeing that priests were being served by parishioners with good food and driving their own cars in the town of Norala in South Cotabato, where he spent his formative years.

But studying philosophy at the Notre Dame of Marbel University opened his eyes to the deeper calling of priesthood.

“Shortly after studying philosophy in the seminary, I worked for six weeks in a company in Cebu that makes mosquito coils. That was my way of learning how ordinary people experience the hard life. I worked as a laborer, shoveling coconut husks and cleaning the compound,” he shared.

He enjoyed the work but he admits ending the day feeling exhausted and asking himself how his fellow workers endured working for 36 hours without rest.

“They will grab every opportunity they can have to work overtime to earn additional pesos for their families. It was then that I resolved to be more sensitive to the less privileged members of society,” said Fr. Angel.

Finding his voice

He joined the South Cotabato Foundation Inc. where he worked for six months. The foundation was involved in upland farming. As the youngest staff member, he was responsible for organizing communities.

These two experiences strengthened his decision to complete his masters in Pastoral Theology at Loyola School of Theology, Ateneo de Manila University, which he finished in 1997.

From there, his journey in serving the Lord took an interesting turn.

“I was very passionate about the things that I did and I was full of idealism after theology studies. I was then assigned as assistant parish priest in Sto. Nino, South Cotabato,” he recalled.

He moved to different parishes within South Cotabato until he was tasked to be station director of DXCP-CMN AM Radio in General Santos City, Sarangani province.

Alongside his newly-found calling as a broadcaster, he became involved in the implementation of the Integrated Rehabilitation Project for indigenous people in Barangay (village) Gasi, Kiamba town in Sarangani Province. The project was funded by United Nations Development Program Stride Mindanao, which involved building core shelters, water systems, barangay health centers, and giving capacity-building for eventual livelihood establishment, food security and psycho-social interventions.

Fr. Angel said the village has 320 families with 97 percent coming from the T’boli tribe. Because it is a remote barangay, households plant corn, vegetables, banana and coffee for personal consumption.

“You could say they are far from civilization. Most of the people think that there is no way for them to improve their lives in Gasi. Even young girls get married at a young age of 13 or 14. Development is limited,” said Fr. Angel.

A channel of peace

The village’s remote location is an ideal traversing point of armed groups, making it one of the conflict-vulnerable communities in Sarangani Province.

With his exposure in Barangay Gasi, Fr. Angelo realized his own definition of peace—that is, “food on the table.”

“One day is not enough to see what areas you can enter to help the people. The more I was exposed to the situation, the more I realized that it’s not just about implementing the project… I reckon that there has to be a deeper involvement of the community,” explained Fr. Angel.

From this realization, he opened the lines of communication between the lumads, Christians and Muslims—helping them realize that they are not enemies in achieving peace but rather crucial factors in peace and development.

Fr. Angel also encouraged the military to join in the peace advocacy. He used his skills as a multi-cultural facilitator in making the tri-people see what the military can contribute in their lives.

Fr. Angel was able to mobilize the army in transporting housing equipment to the community. They worked hand in hand with the tri-people.

According to Lt. Col. Adolfo B. Espuelas Jr. of the 73rd Infantry Brigade in Sarangani Province: “Nakaka-partner na kami sa mga tao na dati natatakot sa amin dahil nga may baril at naka-uniporme kami. Ngayon, ngumingiti na sila amin. Dahil yun kay Father. (We can now work as partners with the people who used to be afraid of us because we carry guns and wear military uniform. They now smile at us. That is because of Fr. Angel.)”

His charisma and ability to gather people from different fields make Fr. Angel an excellent communicator. These talents convinced the Diocese of Marbel to appoint him as station director of the diocese-owned, DXCP-CMN AM Radio in General Santos City.

He held the post from 2005 to 2011.

Managing challenge

Fr. Angel also served as the chairperson of the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas, SarGen Area, and vice president of the Catholic Media Network in Mindanao. He is the convenor of the Socsargen (South Cotabato, Sarangani, General Santos) Peace Network and assistant regional coordinator of KONSULT Mindanao.

“I was made station director of the diocese-owned radio station when it was almost bankrupt. We had P600,000 in debt and we had no idea how to pay that amount,” Fr. Angel admitted.

But with his gift of gab and the skills to find solutions when there seem to be none, Fr. Angel gathered resources from loyal supporters and friends. They were able to pay the station’s debt in six months.

After settling the station’s financial obligation, he proceeded to revive the KBP in 2005—a decision that opened another door for him to serve the public.

At 41, he is proud to have been able to establish the tri-youth volunteers group. As KPB chairperson, Fr. Angel made it possible for fellow broadcasters and reporters to be trained in peace development reporting. He also organized the Catholics and lumads to join in the important Muslim religious feast, Eid Al Fitr.

Today, he serves as the media director and spokesperson of the Diocese of Marbel. He is responsible for all media-related activities and handles the diocese’s official publication, Concern.

Keeping it simple

Where does he get all the strength to serve people?

Fr. Angel said he first saw genuine public service in the examples of his parents, who are both teachers. Growing up, he witnessed how dedicated they were in molding young minds to become better citizens of the country and to be persons who are willing to help their fellow Filipinos.

He was not born in an affluent family but Fr. Angel said he enjoyed his simple life—swimming in the river, riding the carabao and playing random games with peers.

This simplicity, he practices until today.

“I am so blessed with my life that I feel I have to give so much. There is still so much work to be done, so many responsibilities to fulfill. But I find meaning in all these engagements. When I see people’s lives getting better, I find joy. I cannot exchange that for anything,” said Fr. Angel.

(Fr. Angelo “Angel” R. Buenavides is one of five finalists for the Ramon Aboitiz Award for Exemplary Individual. The 5th RAFI Triennial Awards will be handed out on March 22, 2012.)





Village opts for school building as priority project

by Cocoy Sexcion


KIAMBA, Sarangani, March 2 (PIA) – A Department of Education (DepEd) official lauded the barangay council and community of barangay Salakit for choosing a school building project over other sub-projects under the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s Kapit-bisig Laban sa Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS) program.

During the turnover and inauguration ceremony of a three-classroom building for Salakit National High School Wednesday (February 29), Dr. Ruth Estacio, assistant schools division superintendent, quoted that “Whatever you want to put into a nation, put it into her school.”

“If we want to invest in our nation, let’s invest in educating our youth because we need professionals in building our nation,” Estacio said. “So with that, I congratulate all of the people behind the success of this project.”

KALAHI-CIDSS is the Philippine government’s flagship poverty-alleviation project implemented by the DSWD through the financial support of the World Bank.

The three-classroom school building with a total cost of P1,684,552.50 was funded through a counterparting scheme by KALAHI-CIDSS that contributed P968,261 and provincial government of Sarangani with P669,140.70 for the completion of the project.

The municipal government of Kiamba counterparted P6,396.25 while the barangay council of Salakit contributed P6,103.75 and the community with a contribution of P34,650. The project will benefit 392 households from the seven puroks of the barangay.

Barangay Captain Onofre Donato thanked Governor Migs Dominguez for approving the budget needed as the province’s counterpart for the completion of the project.

According to KALAHI-CIDSS workers, in Kiamba alone a total of six sub-projects have been implemented with a total cost of P10,556,500. This is broken down to P8,550,000 from KALAHI-CIDSS and P2,006,500 from local counterparts contribution. These projects are elementary schools in barangay Badtasan and barangay Gasi; high schools in barangay Salakit, barangay Kling and barangay Lomuyon; and river flood control project in barangay Luma. (PIO Sarangani/CT Apelacio/PIA General Santos City)


arangani Archived News]]== The older news reports are kept here

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