Cebu Province News September 2011

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Province of Cebu - Archived News

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.
Cebu metro.jpg
Aerial View of Metro Cebu

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.

City to test garbage route

By Justin K. Vestil and Princess Dawn H. Felicitas

THE Cebu City Government will negotiate with the Mandaue City Government not to bar its garbage trucks from plying Mandaue’s highway on their way to Consolacion town, an official said.

Mandaue City Councilor Benjamin Basiga, in a press conference yesterday, revealed that starting this week, they might block garbage trucks from Cebu City if they pass through his city to dump their trash in Consolacion.

But Cebu City Councilor Nida Cabrera said they will only negotiate if Cebu City finally decides to use the roads of Mandaue City in going to Consolacion.

“We haven’t decided yet if we’re going pass by Mandaue. We’re still looking which way is quicker,” said Cabrera, who heads the council’s committee on environment.

Aside from using the highways of Mandaue, Cebu City may opt to use the road in Barangay Pit-os, which directly connects to Barangay Cabangahan in Consolacion and Barangay Polog where the dumping facility is.

Test run

Department of Public Services (DPS) Chief Dionisio Gualiza said they will be having a test run today using the Pit-os-Cabangahan route to determine the travel time of the city’s garbage truck in going to Consolacion.

This, against the travel time of Cebu City’s garbage truck using Mandaue’s thoroughfares in going to Consolacion.

In a phone interview with Sun.Star Cebu yesterday, Gualiza said Cebu City will start dumping its garbage in Consolacion tomorrow.

Thus, he doesn’t believe reports that drivers of three garbage trucks from Cebu City have already been reprimanded by the Mandaue City Government for plying the highways of Mandaue.

“Wa pa man mi nagsugod og labay didto,” he said.

Mayor Michael Rama already made a pronouncement that he wants the Inayawan Sanitary Landfill to be completely closed by Oct. 1.

Health

Councilor Basiga said they are concerned over the health and traffic if the trucks pass though Mandaue City.

He said that with the traffic situation in the city, the garbage trucks will not only pose an imminent danger to public health, but also can cause further damage with its leachate discharges.

Basiga cited provisions in Republic Act 9003 or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Law, which prohibits the operation of solid waste management facilities, the transport of mixed garbage and the transport of solid waste without the permits from appropriate national agencies.

Basiga said that garbage trucks from Cebu City must secure an environmental compliance certificate (ECC) from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and also a permit to transport from the Mandaue City Government if they plan to cross the city’s boundaries.

A resolution that he passed was also approved last Wednesday. It will not only support his cause, but will ask Mandaue City Mayor Jonas Cortes to strictly implement the said provisions.

He urged the city mayor not to issue a permit to transport to any LGU whose garbage trucks will pass their city, due to the problems that it could cause.

Cebu-based NGO to build home for elderly, PWDs

by Hazel F. Gloria (PIA-7/hfg & RAFI)

CEBU CITY, September 29 (PIA) -- The Ramon Aboitiz Foundation and the Missionaries of the Poor inked a memorandum of understanding recently to build a home for elders and persons with disabilities on a newly-purchased 4500 sq.m lot in barangay Poblacion, Talisay City, Cebu.

It will be called “The House of the Lord” with funds donated by the late Jose Miguel Aboitiz. It is designed to provide shelter and care for 100 elders and persons with disabilities in Cebu, as part of MOP’s three-year development plan.

According to RAFI, the home for elders and persons with disabilities fulfills MOP’s mission to take care of the homeless, persons with disabilities and the poor. RAFI starts the construction of the fence this month while the building itself is set to be constructed early 2012.

Presently, the MOP brothers are already taking care of 30 indigent senior citizens in a make-shift temporary center in Barangay Sawang Calero, Cebu City.

The MOP, which pledged to rescue the indigent and abandoned children, is also operating a permanent residential facility in Cebu called “Little Lamb Center” that caters exclusively to children with multiple disabilities.

Also located in Barangay Sawang Calero, the center houses and cares for over 40 special children with cerebral palsy, autism, and Down’s syndrome, among others.

Established in Kingston, Jamaica, the MOP is an international religious order of brothers dedicated to the Joyful Service with Christ on the Cross to serve the poorest of the poor.

MOP is one of the beneficiaries under RAFI’s Grants program.

Cebu gets P298-M road projects

By MARS W. MOSQUEDA JR.

TOLEDO CITY, Cebu, Philippines – Representative Pablo John Garcia (3rd District, Cebu) recently disclosed that the Third District Engineering Office of the Province of Cebu has gained a bigger share of the 2012 Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) 7 budget.

Said district will be getting a P298- million budget for 2012, an amount which Garcia said could enable him realize his pledge to fully connect all the local government units (LGUs) in his district with a smooth road. The aforesaid amount is part of the P125.5-billion national budget of the DPWH recently approved by Congress.

The Cebu congressman said the first tranche amounting to the P5 million he had earlier pledged for barangay road projects in Toledo had been released to the Third District Engineering Office.

His statement assured Looc Norte Barangay Captain Amelito Santuya that the concreting of approximately one-kilometer national road in his barangay will be finished this year.

Mayor Alan Adlawan added this would connect them to the town of Tuburan with a fully concreted or asphalted national road. This will also add up to the huge number of kilometers of road that Garcia had concreted or asphalted in the Cebu’s third district.

Youths support anti-vandal drive

by Carmel Loise Matus (Correspondent, Cebu Daily News)

THIRTY-TWO youths from Minglanilla town, southern Cebu pledged their support to the province’s drive against graffiti.

Cebu Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia met with them together with Minglanilla Vice Mayor Elanito Pena and barangay officials.

Association of Barangay Councils (ABC) president and Tungkil barangay captain Manolo Delgado emphasized that vandalism on establishments is among their major concerns, especially along the highway.

Delgado said they’ve began cleaning up graffiti in some parts of the town, but they still need to double their effort.

Delgado said they are prioritizing their campaign in the 10 barangays along the highways.

Delgado said they sought the help of the 32 youths and organized them as a group last April in their effort to drive out graffiti.

Delgado said most of youths were previously engaged in vandalism.

Delgado said they wanted to set the 32 members as models in the campaign against graffiti.

Garcia said she will meet the bigger youth groups to also encourage them to participate in the drive of the province.

Last June, Garcia announced during its Provincial Development Council (PDC) meeting that the province will be launching its Graffiti Workable Enforcement team to implement the Anti-Graffiti Ordinance in Cebu province.

The ordinance passed last May 13 penalizes anyone caught defacing structures, possessing and furnishing to minors graffiti implements.

Garcia said provincial police will arrest violators and rewards will be given to persons who report violators.

In July, Superior Gas and Equipment Corp. president Alvin Lua and Garcia signed an agreement for the free supply of calcium carbide, commonly known as calburo to all component cities, towns and barangays in the implementation of the Anti-Graffiti Ordinance, which was authored by former Provincial Board member Juan Bolo.

Garcia also called on Sangguniang Kabataan Federation president Aladdin Caminero to participate.

Around 3,000 set to join walk for breast cancer awareness

By Garry B. Lao/JPM (The Freeman)

CEBU, Philippines - At least 3,000 individuals have already expressed interest to join the annual “moonwalk” to promote awareness of breast cancer, which is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among Cebuano women.

Ramon Aboitiz Foundation Inc. (RAFI) Communication Officer Haidee Emmie Palapar said “moonwalk” is a unique advocacy campaign of RAFI held every full moon of October. It aims to promote the importance of observing monthly breast self-examination for women aged 20 and beyond.

Now on its 8th year, the activity, dubbed “Moonwalk: A Walk for Breast Cancer Awareness,” was organized by the Eduardo J. Aboitiz Cancer Center (EJACC) of the RAFI in observance of the Breast Awareness Month.

The walk will be on Oct. 12.

Palapar said the campaign aims to get more people to be aware of the importance of early cancer detection and prevention, and at the same time, a tribute to the victims and survivors of breast cancer.

EJACC recorded a total of 3,005 breast cancer cases in Metro Cebu and found a continuous increase of breast cancer incidence over the past 10 years, caused by lifestyle and health-related factors.

“With the growing awareness on breast cancer, we are expecting more participants this year— around 3,000 from 1,500 last year. Most of the participants are cancer patients, women from the barangays, and the youth. We encourage everyone from all walks of life to join us in this year’s Moonwalk,” said Ronald delos Reyes, EJACC program coordinator.

The assembly area for this year’s Moonwalk will be at the Cebu Business Park near the Pag-Ibig Fund Tower at 4:00 p.m. Participants will walk to The Walk in Asiatown I.T. Park where they will form a human pink ribbon. A short program and Pink Rock Concert will follow.

Moonwalk is organized in collaboration with The Walk and in coordination with Ayala Center Cebu and I CAN SERVE. It is supported by the Cebu City Government, Department of Health Region 7, Asiatown I.T. Park, Cebu Business Park, Allied Banking Corporation, Philippine National Bank, Cebu Praedia Development Corporation, Rotary Club of Cebu Fuente, and Destiny Medical Fund, Inc.

Moonwalk is an initiative under the Integrated Development focus area of RAFI, addressing health issues of communities in order to create a better quality of life.

Palapar said the moonwalk is open to the public and participants are encouraged to wear pink shirts.

Hundreds benefit from "Halad sa Kapamilya"

By Nina G. Sumacot/LPM (The Freeman)

CEBU, Philippines - Hundreds have benefited from various forms of assistance offered yesterday by the University of the Visayas and ABS-CBN Broadcasting Company.

Dubbed the Halad sa Kapamilya, the event was held at the UV main campus along Colon Street, Cebu City.

Lawyer Boy Alo, a UV professor and one of those who rendered paralegal services, said the university also offered medical, dental, engineering, and reflex services.

As of 12 p.m. yesterday, Alo said at least 50 people have availed of paralegal services on land disputes, family law, oversees employment, criminal cases, and even notarials and documentation.

“Mga UV lawyers and volunteers gyud ang nangunay og hatag sa service. Libre tanan,” Alo said.

The UV Halad sa Kapamilya was a whole-day event filled with free heart-felt services for all Cebuanos to enjoy, from the senior citizens and to the young.

This is another way of fulfilling the thrust of helping the community through various services under the spirit of a true Visayanian.

As hosts for dyAB Timbangan sa Hustisya, Alo and lawyer Pat Acabodillo have seen firsthand in the past the importance of sharing their knowledge to those in need of their services.

EATOF member nations push for viable tourism programs

By Ehda M. Dagooc (The Freeman)

CEBU, Philippines - The member nations of the East Asia Inter-regional Tourism Forum (EATOF)—through the Academic Tourism Trade Investment Forum, recently passed a resolution urging the organization’s policy making body to initiate programs that will maximize the tourism wealth of each member countries.

In a mass motion presented to EATOF during the recently concluded convention in Cebu, the members approved the resolution to start-off in creating viable programs in tourism, trade and investment projects.

Priorities identified during the three-day forum held in Cebu recently, included; the establishment of mechanism to promote and sustain the common programs in ecology, and entrepreneurship of its members through information networking and participation in environment and industry-related events.

Also, the promotion of Edu-Tourism (Education Tourism) has to be strengthened, where the academe, government and business players become more active participants in faculty-student-human resources program. This particular move is seen to be feasible through the establishment of EATOF Tourism Education Center.

An intensive study that will be initiated by the organization, on charter flights and travel routes, is also being seen as one of the effective programs that will help boost the tourism, investments and trade development of EATOF member countries, especially in the provinces.

A strong coordination between travel and tour promoters in member countries was also recommended, wherein the development of travel/tour clusters or tourism swaps shall be started. EATOF members share common tourism and trade events like festivals, trade and exposition, also seminars.

Likewise, an improvised performance appraisal and follow-up strategies shall also be implemented in order to discern future thrusts and determine realistic and attainable projects. This bid is seen to work effectively, under an empowered governance, leadership and cooperation of all members.

This year, EATOF General Assembly hosted by the Cebu Provincial Government led by Governor Gwen F. Garcia, attracted about 108 foreign delegates from member countries, and close to 200 local delegates from tourism sector, academe, and local government units (LGUs).

EATOF is participated by 12 member provinces all over East Asian region. Each province shared their success stories in tourism development and promotion, during the Academic, Trade, Tourism and Investment (ATTI) Forum, which was introduced in Cebu as the newest feature of the EATOF’s 12 year of existence.

Founded by Governor Kim Jin-Sun of Gangwon Province in Korea in 1999, EATOF is a venue for the member provinces to position themselves as viable, attractive and cost-efficient alternatives in an international tourism market that is dynamic and changing, but remains strong.

Incoming and outgoing PRO-7 chiefs visit Gwen

By Gregg M. Rubio/BRP (The Freeman)

CEBU, Philippines - New generation journalists were challenged yesterday to practice “integrity” like those who fought for freedom during the martial law regime.

Erwin Oliva, country editor for Yahoo Philippines, said that even if martial rule has been lifted long time ago, the same principle should still be practiced by journalists today even in the advent of online media.

“Walang kweta ang bagong media kapag walang integrity,” Oliva said.

Oliva was speaker in yesterday’s forum held at the Samuel McClintock Hall of the Cebu Normal University.

Integrity and responsible journalism are two of many factors which strengthened and further bonded the country during its darkest hour.

With the advent of the internet, especially social networking sites, Oliva said, “People are no longer consumers, but are also producers and they are increasingly coming connected.”

According to him, through the new media, “information spread fast,” but because of this accessibility and benefit, verifying such information is the biggest challenge for “online journalist” like him.

“The idea of media as gatekeeper of information is being challenged everyday, so it’s a tough balancing act,” he said.

With the public’s “changing media habits,” the pubic has integrated their need for information with what “technology” offers best.

“Evolution,” according to him, is also key for any media outfit, may it be broadcast or print, to survive. Based on a research, Oliva said, print media will probably come extinct in 2040 because of the continual immergence and development of online media.

Another speaker during the forum is Dong Secuya, founder of Philboxing.com. He encourages young journalists and journalism students to explore more chances in online media.

As a veteran web designer and sports journalist, he has seen first hand the benefits of a work which is partnered with the newest advancement in technology.

The forum which was entitled: “Reaching Out to Future Journalists” was attended by various Mass Communication students from different universities and colleges in Cebu.

Journalists urged: Practice integrity

By Ryan Christopher J. Sorote/FPL(The Freeman)

CEBU, Philippines - New generation journalists were challenged yesterday to practice “integrity” like those who fought for freedom during the martial law regime.

Erwin Oliva, country editor for Yahoo Philippines, said that even if martial rule has been lifted long time ago, the same principle should still be practiced by journalists today even in the advent of online media.

“Walang kweta ang bagong media kapag walang integrity,” Oliva said.

Oliva was speaker in yesterday’s forum held at the Samuel McClintock Hall of the Cebu Normal University.

Integrity and responsible journalism are two of many factors which strengthened and further bonded the country during its darkest hour.

With the advent of the internet, especially social networking sites, Oliva said, “People are no longer consumers, but are also producers and they are increasingly coming connected.”

According to him, through the new media, “information spread fast,” but because of this accessibility and benefit, verifying such information is the biggest challenge for “online journalist” like him.

“The idea of media as gatekeeper of information is being challenged everyday, so it’s a tough balancing act,” he said.

With the public’s “changing media habits,” the pubic has integrated their need for information with what “technology” offers best.

“Evolution,” according to him, is also key for any media outfit, may it be broadcast or print, to survive. Based on a research, Oliva said, print media will probably come extinct in 2040 because of the continual immergence and development of online media.

Another speaker during the forum is Dong Secuya, founder of Philboxing.com. He encourages young journalists and journalism students to explore more chances in online media.

As a veteran web designer and sports journalist, he has seen first hand the benefits of a work which is partnered with the newest advancement in technology.

The forum which was entitled: “Reaching Out to Future Journalists” was attended by various Mass Communication students from different universities and colleges in Cebu.

Capitol seeks firm to manage center

by Carmel Loise Correspondent Cebu Daily News

The Capitol is looking for a firm to run the Cebu Performing Arts Center, which is now called the Cebu Cultural Center (CCC).

The newly refurbished center on Gorordo Avenue is scheduled to have its grand opening in November.

The Capitol is outsourcing the management of the center to the private sector based on public bidding.

Elizabeth Francia, Cebu Gov. Gwen Garcia’s chief of staff, said yesterday that although the governor first asked Philippine Exhibits and Theme Parks Corp. (PETCO ) to manage the center, but the Capitol was still to bid it out.

A soft opening last August 12, attended by former First Lady Imelda Marcos, was held to unveil a sculpture by a Russian artist.

Francia said the center would be completely operational after its grand opening in November 25.

She said the opening would feature presentations of the “seven art forms” such as dance, music and the visual arts.

Provincial Engineer Eulogio Pelayre told CDN that work was completed last month and that no part was hurriedly done even for its soft opening last August 12.

A ribbon-cutting ceremony was led by Cebu Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia last month with Ilocos Norte officials led by Gov. Imee Marcos and Rep. Imelda Marcos.

Also present was Fred Pascual of the University of the Philippines Cebu College and Cebu City Mayor Michael Rama.

The completion of the theater, located in the UP Campus, was a promise made by Governor Garcia during the centennial celebration of UP after years of the project’s idle status as a white elephant.

The project started in 1993 during the term of Gov. Vicente de la Serna, who planned to build a students dormitory and a cultural center n the UP lot, but these were not continued by the next administration. The project went through several contractors and stop-and-start work.

Seaoil’s goal: 13 stations in Cebu by year’s end

By Aileen Garcia-Yap (Cebu Daily News)

Independent oil company Seaoil Philippines Inc. is investing at least P90 million to build at least 13 gasoline stations in Cebu by the end of the year.

Glenn Yu, Seaoil Philippines Inc. president, said the firm would be bullish in its expansions this year especially in key areas in the country like Cebu.

Cebu currently has four stations with the fourth station located along Plaridel Street, Mandaue City, opening last Friday.

“This station is our fourth in Cebu and 200th nationwide. The station will also become our Seaoil Academy for the Visayas region where we also do briefings about our advocacies like on alternative fuels,” he said.

Seaoil is also set to open three more gasoline stations in the next two weeks in Naga City, Compostela town and in Mantuyong in Mandaue City.

“At present our stations are located along Hernan Cortes, which is our first station opened in December of 2009, another one in Consolacion, Talisay City and the latest in Plaridel Street,” he said.

Yu said the firm was expected to invest at least P10 million for every station regardless of the station being company-owned or franchisee operated.

Seaoil has two depot centers in Cebu with a total capacity of 15 million liters to cater to the firm’s targeted expansions.

“We are proud to say that we are the biggest independent oil player in the country today. And we are happy that we have changed the name of the game. In Cebu we can say that we have helped in the issue of the high oil prices in the past. At present, rates in Cebu are already the same as the rates in Manila,” he said.

The firm’s sales in the region have also increased in the last two years.

“On an average yearly output, we end with a P1.5- billion gross revenues in the Visayas region, which usually contributes 10 percent of our national gross revenue,” he said.

Yu also cited Cebu as a major contributor in the firm’s Visayas sales.

The firm also plans to end the year with a P15-billion to P16-billion gross revenues, which is about 30 percent increase from that of last year’s P11.5 billion.

“Seaoil ended last year with at least 280 million liters with an income of P440 million,” he said.

Yu said next year’s target would be to expand the firm’s nationwide network, adding 60 more stations with at least P1 billion expected capital expenditure.

“Of the total 60 stations, we allocated 30 stations for Luzon, 15 stations in Mindanao and 15 stations in the Visayas. Cebu will have about five to six additional stations,” he said.

With that, Seaoil Philippines will have at least 18 stations by 2012.

Seaoil expects to grow at the same rate within the next three years.

“We see still so many untapped market in the country who will also need independent oil companies like us. The oil industry is very competitive and we want to become known as industry innovator by changing the rule of the game,” Yu said.

Toilets for towns cost P600-T each

Carmel Loise Matus (Correspondent,Cebu Daily News)

The public toilets to be built in Cebu’s 37 towns will cost the province P600,000 each, the Capitol’s Provincial Engineering Office said over the weekend.

During last Saturday’s inauguration of the road network at a Gawad Kalinga (GK) site in Minglanilla town, Provincial Engr. Eulogio Pelayre said the costs include the tiles and a separate restroom for persons with disabilities (PWDs).

The PWD toilet has railings and safety handles.

“A school building is a school building. The school building don’t have tiles… The interiors of the toilet have tiles,” he said.

The first public toilet was inaugurated in Dumanjug town, western Cebu.

The public toilet located in the park has three cubicles each for male and female users.

A total of 37 toilets will eventually be built in 37 Cebu towns at P22 million. These will be placed in the poblacions or town centers.

The project was awarded to contractors B.L. Pangan Construction for the northern towns and Maningo Construction for the southern towns.

About 20 towns in the south and 17 in the north will avail of the project.

During the recent Suroy-Suroy sa Sugbo Midwest edition, Cebu Vice Gov. Agnes Magpale said the tourism council planned to set up more toilets along the province’s highways.

Municipal halls and plazas where the Suroy-Suroy sa Sugbo tourists stop over have only two to three toilet cubicles, thus they stand in long lines to use the toilets.

Other restrooms don’t have soap or hand sanitizers that the tourists could use.

Magpale said she suggested to Garcia to improve the toilets in the barangay halls of each town since most barangay halls are located along the highways.

Another district in Cebu approved by House

By Rizel S. Adlawan

A PROPOSAL to divide the second district of Cebu Province was passed on its third reading in the House of Representatives and now awaits action by the Senate, Deputy Speaker Pablo Garcia said.

If the Senate agrees, an eighth district for Cebu Province will be created, comprising the towns of Argao, Dalaguete, Alcoy, Boljoon, Oslob, Santander and Samboan.

The remaining eight towns of the second district will be Dumanjug, Ronda, Alcantara, Moalboal, Badian, Alegria, Malabuyoc and Ginatilan.

Garcia, who served three terms as governor of Cebu, has said his Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) is spread too thinly among the district’s 15 towns. They also have the most number of barangays at 284.

In his bill’s explanatory note, the deputy speaker pointed out that district legislators are expected not only to work on legislation but also to provide constituency services.

Garcia re-filed the bill in December 2010, and it was referred to the House committee on local governments last February.

At least two officials from the district welcomed the latest development, because if approved, it will lead to more projects for their towns.

Alcoy Mayor Nick de los Santos said he was already informed about its approval in the Lower House and looks forward to a bigger share of the PDAF for each town.

It also creates an opportunity for those interested in running for a seat in the House, he said.

Samboan Mayor Raymond Calderon said projects given to them right now are limited because all of the 15 towns have to share the congressman’s PDAF.

His twin brother, Provincial Board Member Peter John Calderon, shared the observation.

PB Member Calderon also said that from the towns of Argao to Samboan, they already have a preferred candidate for congressman in 2013, PB Member Wilfredo Caminero.

Sun.Star Cebu failed to contact Caminero yesterday.

Santander Vice Mayor Wilson Wenceslao said they have already decided that Caminero should run.

PB Members Calderon, Caminero and Wenceslao are close friends.

The latest district of Cebu Province is the lone district of Lapu-Lapu City, created a few months before the May 2010 elections and now represented by former mayor Arturo Radaza.

US envoy urges youth to do part

By Gregg M. Rubio /NLQ (The Freeman)

CEBU, Philippines - United States Ambassador to the Philippines Harry Thomas, Jr. has assured the continuing support of their government to the fight against human trafficking as he challenged the Cebuano youth to implement aggressive measures.

Thomas and Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia led the signing of commitment during the launching of the Movement of Anti-Trafficking Advocates (MATA) at the Cebu International Convention Center yesterday.

More than 1,000 youth leaders and students attended the activity organized by the Province of Cebu through the Panlalawigang Pederasyon ng mga Sangguniang Kabataan (PPSK) and Visayan Forum Foundation, Inc. with the support of the Unites States Agency for International Development (USAID).

The commitment states, “the conduct of massive enlistments and conduct awareness campaigns and organizing of watch groups is schools, churches and source communities; inform the public, report and prevent cases of trafficking, protect and empower victims of human trafficking; and monitor and document the movement of traffickers, illegal recruiters and their cohorts.”

In his keynote address, Thomas said that by signing the commitment, he was signifying his country’s continuing advocacy for a more aggressive effort to put an end to this global menace.

“The United States government will continue to work with all of you and the Philippine government to combat this menace. We will continue to be your strong ally in this fight,” Thomas said.

Thomas emphasized to the youth that the activity is their opportunity to take care because they have parents, family and friends who love them while those who are now victims of trafficking have no more to celebrate.

“So I challenge you whenever you see somebody being trafficked, whenever you know of someone being trafficked you report them,” Thomas said.

Thomas was applauded when he said in Cebuano dialect, “Ako nalipay sa atong pagtinabangay sa pagsumpo aning problemaha. Daghang salamat sa inyong tanan.”

Garcia on the other hand said that the signing of the covenant boosts in the campaign and raises awareness against human trafficking up to the grassroots level.

“Now I am even more elated to have the youth on board,” Garcia said as she thanked PPSK president, Provincial Board Member Aladin Wilyamie Caminero for taking up the challenge.

Garcia said that the signing of covenant takes even greater significance because of the presence of Thomas, who has also been a most active crusader against human trafficking.

“So I say, sound the alarm, gather the troops, act and fight and we shall show right here in this one united Province of Cebu, human trafficking has no place,” Garcia said.

In yesterday’s activity, the presence of a lot of hearing impaired students was noticed.

Caminero said that the participation of these students highlighted the fact that they belong to a very vulnerable sector of society who are voiceless and can become victim of trafficking.

“We are confident that we can inspire other people to open their eyes and watch-out for vultures who seek to undermine our efforts to protect our constituents especially the youth, women and children from clutches of these human trafficking syndicates,” he said.

Caminero said that the presence of Thomas is a milestone in the history of the anti-trafficking initiatives of the Province of Cebu as there’s a need of the support from first world countries like the US who have the technical capabilities and resources to debilitate or block websites used in the syndicate.

Ecology rules tourism meet

By Gregg M. Rubio/BRP

CEBU, Philippines - Last night’s 11th General Assembly of the member provinces of the East Asia Inter-Regional Tourism at the Cebu International Convention Center ended with the signing of its joint declaration.

With the theme “Celebrating 12 Years of Cooperation and Commitment”, discussions among member provinces centered on ecology, education and entrepreneurship.

Considering that tourism in East Asia is now facing various crises such as pandemics, natural disasters, political instability and economic difficulties, the EATOF declared to maintain a joint effort to reduce potential crises in early stages and share information among members.

They will cooperate to establish a fair tourism environment in the region by hosting seminars and campaigns that will improve tourism industries and eliminate unfair transactional practices between companies, such as unfair pricing policies and hard-selling campaigns.

EATOF will also improve immigration procedures by introducing “no visa” policies or fast-tracking visa checks.

During the press conference attended by governors and representatives of member provinces, Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia said that policy has already been implemented by some Asian countries.

EATOF will also initiate cooperative projects to strengthen Education Tourism where the academe, government and business players become active participants in faculty-student-human resources program through the establishment of EATOF Tourism Education Center.

EATOF member provinces are also asked to study the feasibility of charter flights and travel routes and develop travel/tour clusters or tourism swaps where members share common tourism and trade events like festivals, trade and expositions, seminars and business/entrepreneurship matching.

In its joint declaration, EATOF also agreed to maintain multilateral exchanges which include the Summer Youth Camp, the Officials Exchange Program and the Destination of the Year Project for the host Province. The financial support in the amount of US$ 5,000 for these multilateral exchanges will be provided through the EATOF Operating Fund.

They also agreed to dispatch officials to the EATOF Secretariat to facilitate smooth operation among member provinces. Financial support, such as housing and stipends, will be provided for the dispatched officials by the EATOF Secretariat and Gangwon province in South Korea.

Being a new feature in its general assembly, EATOF agreed to permanently include in every general assembly the EATOF Festival and continue the concept and format of the Academic, Trade, Tourism and Investment Forum.

During their gathering Chiang Mai, Thailand, requested to revert its status as observer from being a regular member. EATOF deferred the request and instead asked Chiang Mai to send representative to Siem Reap, Cambodia, and for the Secretariat to assist Chiang Mai in the expenses that will be incurred.

In the case of the Province of Primorsky, Russia, an official communication will be sent by the Secretariat, inviting them to attend the general assembly in Siem Reap where final decision of their status will be discussed.

EATOF encourages governors of their respective provinces to attend the General Assembly instead of sending other officials.

As agreed, the 12th General Assembly will be held in Siem Reap province, Cambodia in the fourth week of November, 2012 in which the formal turnover will be held tonight at Marco Polo Plaza in Cebu City.

Signatories of the joint declaration are Governor Garcia of Cebu, Philippines; Governor Moonsoon Choi of Gangwon, Korea; Jilin Provincial Tourism Administration Deputy Director-General Gao Fei of Jilin, China; Vice Governor Saysamone Khomthavong of Luang Prabang, Laos; Quang Ninh Provincial People’s Committee Vice Chairwoman Vu Thi Thu Thuy of Quang Ninh, Vietnam; Assistant Minister of Tourism & Heritage YB Datuk Haji Talib Zulpilip of Sarawak, Malaysia; Governor Sou Phirin of Siem Reap, Cambodia; Deputy Director-General of the Culture and Tourism Bureau Kato Reiji of Tottori, Japan; Governor Tsedevdorj Enkhbat of Tuv, Mongolia; and Head of Yogyakarta Provincial Tourism Authority Tazbir of Yogyakarta, Indonesia.

Int'l tourism forum starts

By Gregg M. Rubio/BRP (The Freeman)

CEBU, Philippines - How the Municipality of San Francisco of the Camotes group of islands became an eco-tourism destination and a United Nations Sasakawa awardee was shared yesterday before delegates of the 12th East Asia Inter-Regional Tourism Forum (EATOF).

That, as Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia welcomed delegates from 12 countries in yesterday’s start of the three-day event at the Cebu International Convention Center (CICC).

San Francisco Vice Mayor Alfredo Arquillano spoke before the Academic, Trade, Tourism and Investment (ATTI) Forum, which was introduced in Cebu as the newest feature of the 12-year of existence of EATOF.

The ATTI forum is a venue for EATOF members to present best practices and share success stories in terms of tourism, trade and other economic strategies.

Arquillano emphasized how, by empowering their citizens, the delivery of services has been maximized and a consciousness of ecological preservation and unity among its people has been developed.

San Francisco was awarded the prestigious 2011 United Nations Sasakawa Award for Disaster Risk Reduction in Geneva on May 14.

Arquillano explained that the town’s “purok system” has propelled it to become resilient, utilizing indigenous knowledge to disseminate critical information and risk assessment, waste segregation, delivery of health services, and related activities at the household level.

The UN Sasakawa Award recognizes excellence in reducing disaster risk. Winners were selected among numerous nominees from around the world through an intensive judging process.

For 2011, the focus of the award was on local action in line with the UN’s “Making Cities Resilient” Campaign.

Organizers further explained that the criteria for the award emphasized sustainability of projects despite resource constraints, and putting people first.

Ten out of the 12 member-provinces sent their delegation to this year’s EATOF, which has the theme “The New Decade of Enduring Cooperation and Partnership.”

Among the foreign governors present were Moonson Choi of Gangwon, Korea; Enkhbat Tsedevdorj of Tuv, Mongolia; and the Deputy Governor of Siem Reap, Cambodia, Bun Tharith. The delegation from Luang Prabang, Laos and Quang Ninh, Vietnam were headed by their respective vice governors while the other-member provinces were represented by their tourism officials.

Garcia, in her speech, said that opening the ATTI forum is a step further to make their partnership “real, working, and workable.”

“On its 12th year, EATOF has evolved from that simple idea into a living and working network of active partners drawing upon, and sharing each other’s strengths – a model of international cooperation in the push for tourism,” Garcia said.

The TravelMart, an exhibit of the different tourist attractions of the member-provinces, was formally opened with a ceremonial ribbon cutting by the heads of delegation. This exhibit will be open for public viewing on September 16.

“Here today, we not only share meaningful lessons from each of our own efforts to push the richly diverse aspects of tourism. More importantly, this is a forum where the key tourism players from each of our provinces can form meaningful partnerships that can only work towards our mutual benefit, and the further strengthening of EATOF,” the governor added.

EATOF, which was organized in Korea in 1999, aims to promote inter-regional cooperation. It is one of the biggest gatherings of tourism stakeholders in the East Asia Region.

Major East-Asian regional tourism forum takes place in Cebu

By MARS W. MOSQUEDA JR.

MANDAUE CITY, Cebu, Philippines – Cebu rolled out its red carpet Wednesday to welcome governors from various countries in the Asia Pacific region for the 11th East Asia Inter-Regional Tourism Forum (EATOF) general assembly at the Cebu International Convention Center (CICC), this city.

Cultural performers from participating provinces put up a show in front of their booth at the Travel Mart of the EATOF assembly to formally open this year's general assembly that will run until September 17 and which will be participated in by at least 200 delegates aside from the governors.

The international forum is an annual event where members discuss academic and government concerns in promoting partnerships for development in tourism, trade and culture.

The EATOF members are Cebu, Philippines; Jilin, China; Gangwon, Korea; Sarawak, Malaysia; Yogyogarta, Indonesia; Tottori, Japan; Tuv-Mongolia; Primovsky-Russia; Chiang Mai, Thailand and Quang Ninh, Vietnam.

Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia, who assumed her position as EATOF head after Quang Ninh's hosting of the Forum last year , said EATOF, which was primarily established for tourism originally, has hence evolved into exchanges in trade and culture.

“For the first time in all of its 12 years of existence, there will be a trade and investment forum during the EATOF,” Garcia said, adding that in the past, the forum only featured governors’ conferences and academic meetings.

One of the highlights of the forum, Garcia said, is the first EATOF cultural festival.

Delegates will be treated to a day tour of Camotes Islands in north Cebu on the last day of the forum.

They will be accompanied by Vice-Governor Agnes Magpale since Garcia is slated to meet with United States Ambassador Harry Thomas on Sept. 16.

Garcia thanked all sectors who assisted the province in organizing the forum.

“We are grateful for the active participation of the private sector in assisting the province. We have as well the very ready cooperation of the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Philippine National Police,” she said.

This yearly event showcases the exhibits, the Governors’ committee meetings, press conferences, and joint declaration of cooperation among EATOF members, academic sessions and cultural fellowship and tours.

Cebu, Bohol remain peaceful zones

By MARS W. MOSQUEDA JR.


CEBU CITY, Philippines — The island provinces of Cebu and Bohol remain insurgency-free, even as the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)’s Central Command (CentCom) continues to monitor activities of alleged rebel leaders here, a military official revealed Tuesday.

Col. John Bonafos of the Philippine Army (PA)’s 82nd Brigade covering Bohol, Cebu, Biliran, and Southern Leyte, revealed in a Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC) Meeting at the Social Hall of the Cebu Provincial Capitol that Cebu and Bohol - two provinces that used to infested by rebels in past years – now are virtually rid of insurgency.

Bonafos made his pronouncement as rebels raided a police station in Hinabangan town in Samar province which is not under the 82nd Brigade’s jurisdiction, early Monday. The rebels managed to outnumber six policemen on duty and carted away firearms and other police equipment.

In his presentation Tuesday, Bonafos said 2,386 combat operations were conducted by the 82nd Brigade in its areas of jurisdictions to prevent the reentry of insurgents. Cebu and Bohol have been declared insurgency-free but nearby provinces Biliran and Southern Leyte are not.

It was during Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia’s earlier term in office that an all-out-war had been waged against Cebu insurgents. The anti-insurgency campaign was fought in both the battlefront as well as in the civilian front, with the Cebu provincial government’s provision of financial and livelihood assistance to rebel surrenderees.

The provincial government’s livelihood assistance in exchange for guns has been proven effective in Cebu with several rebels re-joining mainstream society. Bohol followed suit and authorities are now concentrating on Negros Island where rebel activities are still rampant.

Meanwhile, RPOC 7 Chair and Bohol Governor Edgar Chatto stressed that the onset of technology has created a new wave of crimes committed through the internet.

“We need more advocacy as new crimes are coming up due to the popularity of technology,” said Chatto, who was particularly referring to cyber sex and other cyber crimes.

He said at the moment, the Bohol provincial government is without a monitoring team dedicated against the cybersex trend in the province but he gave his assurance that coordination on the matter with other local governments is now being done.

It can be recalled that several female minors from Getafe, Bohol were rescued last May by police authorities. Some of the girls during a court hearing later told a prosecutor that their new jobs would involve the “Internet” and that they only had to “face the computer” and follow instructions given by a foreigner.

The girls are currently housed in a Department of Social Welfare and Development dormitory.

Traders see Aquino's visit to PRoC as boosting Cebu's economy

By MALOU M. MOZO

CEBU CITY, Cebu, Philippines – Cebuano business leaders who joined the official delegation of Filipino businessmen during President Benigno S. Aquino III’s recent visit to the People’s Republic of China (PRoC), is optimistic that the trip will have a “ripple effect” on Cebu’s economy, particularly in luring more foreign direct investments from China.

“Cebu is an ideal investment destination for investments from China because of our strong affinity with the Chinese culture as well as our stable relationship with the Chinese government,” said Mandaue Chamber of Commerce president, Eric Mendoza.

According to Mendoza, the President’s trip signified that the country is open to foreign investments and “sends a clear message of a level playing field” where business in the country is concerned.

“The entire Cebu business community is open for business. The challenge now is how to maximize existing opportunities,” he said.

For her part, Philippine Retailers Association of the Philippines-Cebu (PRA-Cebu) president Melanie Ng said opportunities for Cebu exist in agriculture and manufacturing, power generation and mining.

Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) president, Samuel Chioson likewise expressed similar sentiments about the President’s recent state visit to China having “good results for Cebu and the rest of the Philippines.”

He cited the upcoming expansion of the Mactan Economic Zone (MEZ) which, for instance, could generate up to 5,000 jobs in the local garment industry.

P5M needed for face-lift of Talisay Landing Shrine

by Carmel Loise Matus(Correspondent)/Cebu Daily News

The Talisay City Council is asking Cebu officials for P5-million financial assistance for the renovation of the Landing Shrine in barangay Tanke.

Vice Mayor Alan Bucao said that the shrine needed an upgrade.

“The council finds and believes that maintaining the cultural heritage of the city is vital to its people’s historical knowledge,” Bucao said.

The landing shrine, which was constructed in the 1990s, had only two renovations over the years.

“We also believe that beautification of the historical landmarks will realize important returns such as the people’s historical values, city’s unique character and ability to attract tourists,” he said.

The landing shrine in the Liberation Park at Tanke has been declared a national historical shrine as it marks the spot where the Armed Forces made its historic beachhead landing on March 26, 1945.

The resolution for the Landing Shrine renovation, which the Talisay City Council approved on Tuesday, is asking P1 million from Cebu Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia, P3 million from Rep. Eduardo Gullas (Cebu 1st district), P500,000 each from Provincial Board Members Julian Daan and Sergio Restauro.

The shrine has life-sized statues of American soldiers, which vandals had disfigured. The steel railings that protect and separate the pedestal where these statues stand has deteriorated and become rusty.

The shrine was made to honor the Filipino and American soldiers, who shed blood to liberate Cebu from the invading Japanese Army in World War II.

Oil exploration in Alegria underway

By Garry B. Lao/BRP (The Freeman)

CEBU, Philippines - The Department of Energy has discovered a possible oil source in a mountain barangay in Alegria town in the southern part of Cebu Province.

DOE-7 Regional Director Antonio Labios said the ongoing exploration in the said municipality will have no ill-effects on the environment. “Wala gyud ni impact sa environment kay dili ni sa dagat,” Labios said.

Labios said that an Australian drilling group has been formed to prepare the work plan and the department will be conducting an energy sector information and education campaign.

Labios hopes that the exploration, which covers an area of 197,000 hectares, will yield oil deposits of commercial quantity oil.

“If the oil found in Alegria is proven to be clean then it can be used by the oil stations here in Cebu,” Energy Assistant Secretary Ramon Allan Oca said.

Oca said if the exploration turns out positive, then the Municipality of Alegria is very privileged because this signals a rise in their local economy, attracting more business investments that can translate to more job opportunities for its residents.

Oca added having an oil source will also benefit the Province of Cebu and the entire country as well.

Dominant performance in 2011 Board: Cebu grads place 1-2-8 in MedTech

By Niña G. Sumacot (The Freeman)

CEBU, Philippines - She wasn’t sure if she would pass the exam, even branding as a joke the big news her friend broke to her.

But Isabelle Basubas Baisac, a 21-year-old graduate of the Cebu Doctors’ University, could not help but laugh at the result revealing her as the topnotcher of the September 2011 Medical Technologist Licensure Examination.

Graduates of Cebu schools delivered a one-two punch in the exam with Baisac placing first and Sherry Mae Casiño Mondido of Velez College landing second.

A third Cebu graduate, Jana Barbra Dela Cerna Mayol of Cebu Doctors University, placed eighth to complete Cebu’s domination of the exam.

Both the CDU and Velez College got a 100 percent rating (31/31).

Only .40 percentage points separated Baisac and Mondido with Baisac garnering a score of 91.70 percent and Mondido 91.30 percent.

Mayol scored 89.20 percent to share eighth place with Cherry Rose Tuazon Reyes of the University of Santo Tomas.

Baisac said she was not even sure she would pass the exam, and yet she was declared the topnotcher.

“After taking the exam, nagduha-duha gyud ko if mopasar ba ko kay lisod kaayo ang exam. Unexpected gyud ang result,” said Baisac, whose parents are both medical doctors.

She said she did not even believe in her friend who called her up Wednesday night, the time the result was released, to inform her that she topped the exam.

“Wala gyud ko mituo niya. Abi nako ga-joke-joke ra siya,” she told The FREEMAN.

Since the Internet connection at their residence was temporarily cut off, she went to a cousin’s house to see the result online. She then found out that her friend was not lying at all.

“Nakatawa gyud ko kay wa gani ko’y sure makapasar, na-first na nuon,” said Baisac, a dean’s lister of CDU in her first and second year.

In preparation for the exam, she said she just kept on reading her materials.

Before the exam, she visited churches in Cebu along with her friends. A week ago, she went to Simala in Sibonga to seek Divine guidance.

She said the exam was really hard but if a person strives for his or her goal, success can be achieved.

“Study lang gyud og tarong unya sige lang gyud og salig Niya (God). If you find yourself na galisod mo, don’t give up. If ganahan gyud ka sa profession, keep studying kay mo-pay off ra tanang kalisod,” she said.

After the oath-taking, Baisac said she plans to take a vacation first before hunting for a job.

Third on the list was Gelyn Modequillo Ty San Pedro of the College-Davao City, who scored 90.20 percent. Cyrille Maria Trinidad Bebelone Enobio of the University of the Immaculate Conception-Davao placed fourth after scoring 89.80 percent.

Fifth on the list was Roxanne Maritana Figueroa of the University of Perpetual Help System-Laguna, who scored 89.60 percent while Ma. Cecilia Miranda Santos of the University of Santo Tomas placed sixth and scored 89.50 percent.

With only .10 percentage advantage points, Lourivy Pulvera Durano of the University of the Immaculate Conception-Davao and Michael John Amolong Mondragon of the University of Negros Oriental-Recoletos shared the seventh place with 89.40 percent.

Cheryl Julie Samson Argent of San Pedro College-Davao City landed in the ninth place with a score of 89.00 percent.

Sharing the tenth place were Ray Carlo Villanueva De La Cruz of the Lyceum of the Philippines University-Batangas, Inc. and Jake Lester Pugao Villanueva of Far Eastern University Nicanor Reyes Medical Foundation with a score of 88.90 percent.

The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) announces that 1,123 out of 1,480 passed the examination given by the Board of Medical Technology in the cities of Manila, Baguio, Cebu and Davao.

The exams were held on September 3 and 4 and the result was released on September 7.

Cebu set for East Asian tourism forum

By Carmel Loise Matus

Security will be tight in Metro Cebu especially near the Cebu International Convention Center as 200 delegates arrive for the East Asian Tourism Forum (Eatof) 2011.

Governors from 11 East Asian localities confirmed that they will attend the forum from Sept. 13 to Sept. 17, said Cebu Vice Gov. Agnes Magpale.

Policemen will be deployed in the streets to maintain peace and orders and help secure the delegates, the vice governor said.

The international forum is an annual event where members discuss academic and government concerns in promoting partnerships for development in tourism, trade and culture.

The members of Eatof are Cebu, Philippines; Jilin, China; Gangwon, Korea; Sarawak, Malaysia; Yogyogarta, Indonesia; Tottori, Japan; Tuv-Mongolia; Primovsky-Russia; Chiang Mai, Thailand and Quang Ninh, Vietnam.

Magpale, chairperson of the Cebu Provincial Board’s tourism committee, said they are “97 percent prepared” for the Eatof and all working committees are in place.

The province rented an interpreter’s booth similar to what was used during the Association of South East Asian Nations (Asean) Summit in 2007.

Last year, Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia attended the Eatof in Quang Ninh province in Vietnam.

Garcia will assume as leader of the Eatof.

Garcia said the forum, which was primarily for the tourism sector, has evolved into exchanges in trade and culture.

“For the first time in all of its 12 years of existence, there will be a trade and investment forum,” Garcia said.

In the past, the forum only featured governors’ conferences and academic meetings.

One of the highlights of the forum, Garcia said, is the first Eatof cultural festival.

Delegates will be treated to a day tour of Camotes Islands in north Cebu on the last day of the forum.

They will be accompanied by Magpale since Garcia is slated to meet United States Ambassador Harry Thomas on Sept. 16.

Garcia yesterday thanked all sectors who assisted the province in organizing the forum.

“We are grateful for the active participation of the private sector in assisting the province. We have as well the very ready cooperation of the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Philippine National Police,” she said.

Magpale said they are expecting 200 delegates to arrive.

Most of the governors will be billeted in Shangri-La Mactan Island Resort and Spa in Lapu-Lapu City while others will be staying at Radisson Blu Hotel in Cebu City’s North Reclamation Area.

Garcia earlier said that because of the goodwill ties, Cebu is hosting several chartered flights from Eatof member provinces in China, South Korea and Russia.

CanCham-Cebu reiterates support to 6 priority areas

By Ehda M. Dagooc (The Freeman)

CEBU, Philippines - The newly formed Canadian Chamber of commerce-Cebu Chapter (CanCham-Cebu) reiterated its commitment to focus on the six priority areas on which it pro-actively concentrates its efforts on—food, agri-business, labor and migration, natural resources, mining, financial and banking sectors.

Because of this CanCham-Cebu has started to conduct several briefing on Canada-Philippines mutual business interest, specifically for its member companies.

Led by CanCham president Julian Payne, the chamber also held series of briefings in Cebu covering updates and issues on Labor and Employment, Bureau of Customs duties and taxes, including BIR taxation.

The CanCham-Cebu is the first chapter outside of Metro Manila, it has 60 founding members and industries.

On enhancing trade relations, the Chamber continued to make representations this year

relating to the new Department of Agriculture’s Department Order that had adverse impact on frozen pork imports from Canada.

Together with the Canadian Embassy in Manila, the Chamber co-organized the Canada Pork event last March 29, 2011. In 2010, Canadian merchandise exports to the Philippines were CAD $683.7 million, while Canadian imports from the Philippines were valued at CAD $889.0 million.

According to Payne, a notable development in the Canada-Philippines relationship is the continuing increase of Filipino immigrants to Canada. In 2010, the Philippines was the largest source country for immigrants to Canada.

Records show that nearly 500,000 people of the Philippine origin now residing and working in Canada.

This recognition by Filipinos of Canada as an attractive new home and by Canada of Filipinos as a positive addition to Canada’s multicultural society has long-term implications for potential business and other links between the two countries.

Meanwhile, CanCham-Cebu announced that the latest addition to Canadian food import in Cebu is the “Pacific Kiss,” a top quality British Columbia (BC) oyster. It is a delicious and nutritious option that has been grown at an environmentally sustainable farm by a registered member of The British Columbia Shellfish Association.

Making oysters a part of one’s diet makes sense. Farmed oysters are an excellent source of high quality protein and have more Omega-3 fatty acids than chicken, pork or beef. They are also an excellent source of zinc, a proven immunity booster.

According to the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, most people only get about one half of the recommended daily intake for zinc and just one oyster provides close to your entire daily requirement.

In Cebu, these oysters are made available through JEDCO, a Filipino-owned company importing fresh chilled meat from North America, Australia and Europe since 1990. JEDCO is a founding member of CanCham Cebu Chapter.

P20-B Cebu international port eyed

By MARS W. MOSQUEDA JR.

LILOAN, Cebu, Philippines – Authorities are revisiting a plan that had been shelved in 2002 to build a P20.4-billion offshore international port between the towns of Consolacion and Liloan, in northern Cebu.

The Cebu Ports Authority (CPA) is the proponent of the P20.4-billion offshore international port. According to officials of the CPA, funding for the project could be sourced from either a loan or through an investment as a result of public-private sector partnership.

The CPA has presented plans for the proposed port to be constructed in Maya, Daanbantayan as well as for the improvement of the Hagnaya port in San Remigio. The latter project is being supported by Cebu (fourth district) Representative Benhur Salimbangon.

Representatives of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Department of Transportation and Communications (DoTC) met in Cebu Monday to take another look at the study of the proposed international container port.

Said study which involves constructing an offshore container port after the container traffic congestion was already felt at the existing Cebu International Port was conducted by the JICA in 2000.

However, CPA General Manager Dennis Villamor said it was shelved by the Cebu Port Commission in 2002. “It was only recently, in 2010, that we thought we would revisit the proposal because of the problem on traffic management, capacity and volume accommodation,” he said.

Villamor added that the proposed international container service terminal to be built in Consolacion-Liloan will cover an area of 60 hectares. It will be constructed off the coast and will be connected to the shore by a bridge. He also said that it will be implemented in two phases and that the construction of the entire project would take from three to five years.

He said the project proposal has already been presented to Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia, and now, they are poised to present it to the Cebu Port Commission for approval before submitting it to the DoTC.

From the DoTC, the project proposal will then be presented to the National Economic and Development Authority for review before submission to President Benigno Aquino III for final approval.

Gyeonggi, Korea eyes sisterhood ties with Cebu Province

By Niña G. Sumacot/MIT

CEBU, Philippines - Provincial Council members of Gyeonggi, the largest province in South Korea, paid a courtesy call to Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia and offered sisterhood ties.

The 11 Korean councilmen told Garcia that they are impressed with Cebu especially its government, and the Cebuanos which is why they want to tie up with Cebu through a sisterhood pact.

The officials, through their delegation head, council man Lee Jai Cheon, offered the governor a lot of opportunities for Cebu.

Cheon said Gyeonggi is home of Hyundai, Kia, and other big companies in South Korea.

They invited Garcia and other provincial officials to visit South Korea and see what Gyeonggi has to offer.

The Korean delegation wanted to know the structure of the government in Cebu and expressed surprise upon knowing that the province only has 12 Provincial Board members while they have 141 council members in Gyeonggi.

Present during the courtesy call were Vice governor Agnes Magpale, Provincial Board Members Julian Daan, Thaddeus Ouano, Peter John Calderon, Jose Rimobapil Holganza, Jr., and Cesar Ian Zambo.

The courtesy call was made last Thursday at the governor’s office. Gyeonggi Province is said to be the growth engine of Korea.

The Province is evenly developed in various industries such as heavy industry (electronics, machine, heavy and chemical industry, steel), light industry (textile), and farm, livestock and fisheries industry.

CCCI to promote organic farming

By MARS W. MOSQUEDA JR.

CEBU, Philippines – The island province of Cebu has officially accepted the invitation of the prestigious international group of tourism islands, the Inter-Islands Tourism Policy (ITOP), which will be holding its annual forum in the island of Jeju in the Republic of Korea.

Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia said she formally accepted the invitation to join the ITOP, making Cebu one of the 10 members of the elite islands group.

Current ITOP members include Jeju Island in Korea; Hainan, China; Phuket, Thailand; Okinawa, Japan; Bali, Indonesia; Zanzibar, Tanzania; the Canary Islands, Spain; Southern Province, Sri Lanka; and Hawaii, U.S.A. .

Garcia said it was in Hainan, China in 2010 that Cebu was officially invited to join the prestigious group and yesterday, she said she confirmed Cebu's interest in joining with the holding of the ITOP forum this month in Jeju.

“Cebu was invited to become a member and when asked if we are interested in joining, we, of course, reiterated our interest in doing so,” Garcia said, stressing, “It is our pride to be part of ITOP.”

Garcia said Cebu's reputation as one of the top five sland destinations in Asia could have played a major role in the invitation to become part of the ITOP.

The discussion to establish the ITOP Forum was started by an agreement among Jeju, Bali and Hainan in 1995 to create a tourism policy forum in the East Asian region. The forum strongly supports the idea that a cooperative relationship amongst islands in the world is highly needed.

CCCI to promote organic farming

By Ehda M. Dagooc (The Freeman)

CEBU, Philippines - The Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) is introducing another noble advocacy to promote organic-farming in the entire province.

To jumpstart this program, CCCI cooperation with Cebu Coalition for Food Security (CCFS) and other partners, will be holding the first “Cebu Go Organic Fair and Conference,” to heighten awareness in organic farming concept, and its resolve issues such as impression complexities, and certification processes.

The fair and conference which is slated on October 21 to 23 (2011) at the Cebu International Convention Center (CICC) expects to draw at least 500 participants from different sectors, specifically the farming communities in Cebu province, Local Government Unit (LGU) officials (City and municipal agriculturists), among others.

Samson Tiu, the event’s chairman for program and exhibits, said that with this move, there is a need for Cebu to organize a group of farmers that will eventually serve as a certification body.

At present, there are only three organic farm certification group, two of which are privately operated, while the other one is managed by the government.

“The organic law is very strict. It involves a lot of processes,” said Tiu adding that while the market for organic-produce products such as fruits, vegetables, and crops are on the rise, farmers will not only be able to take advantage this growing market domestically, but also it will open the wide consumer-based overseas.

According to Tiu, in terms of organic farming promotion, Cebu is lagging behind, although the province is not an agricultural area. Negros, and Bohol are leading this movement, and Cebu is seen to trail blaze in this movement.

Aside from promoting organic-farming, the event also aimed at encouraging young generation businessmen to engage into farming trade, while productivity of farmers in Cebu is going down, and average age of farmers now is at 55 years old, said CCFS chairman Roberto Bajinting.

In Cebu, several non-government organizations (NGOs) appealed to the Department of Agriculture (DA) to implement a sustainable farming system in the city and province to help ensure food security.

Earlier, DA announced that it is allocating P900 million for 2011 to implement various initiatives under the “Organic Agriculture Act 2010” or Republic Act No. 10068.

As provided under the Republic Act, a National Organic Agriculture Board (NOAB) will be created to serve as the policy-making body that will provide direction and general guidelines for the implementation of the national organic agriculture program.

According to Tiu, the market for organic products is steadily increasing across the world.

“This is why there is a pressing need to push for the production of organic crops, livestock and processed food especially in the Visayas region,”Tiu added.

Today, organic products are an alternative that is economically, environmentally and socially interesting to the small farmers, especially in Cebu.

P20 wage hike for CV okayed

By Garry B. Lao (The Freeman)

CEBU, Philippines - The good news – there will be a wage increase in Central Visayas.

The bad news for workers is that if the increase of the daily minimum wage is only P20 and not P100 as proposed by the labor groups.

This was decided upon by the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) after almost five hours of closed-door deliberations.

The increase will only take effect 15 days after the publication of the order on the four provinces of the region.

RTWPB Chairman Exequiel Sarcauga, who is also the acting regional director of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), said the increase will make the minimum wage P305 from the current P285.

The Association Labor Union-Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (ALU-TUCP) is asking for a P100 across-the-board daily minimum wage hike for workers in Central Visayas, while the Trade Union of the Philippines and Allied Services asked for a P120 across-the-board daily wage increase.

But ALU-TUCP legal chief Ernesto Carreon, one of labor representatives to the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board, expressed disappointment over the minimal salary hike.

“Gamay ra gyud,” Carreon said, adding that he along with Marianito Ventura of the Trade Union of the Philippines and Allied Services, representing the labor sector, exerted effort that their request will be granted, but they were out-voted.

The two voted against the P20 increase while four voted for it.

“Una P100, unya wala sila misugot so mi-reduce mi og P50, na-pilde gihapon mi sa vote. Mi-reduce nalang mi og P25 pero wala sab sila misugot, mao nga naabot sa P20. Wala gyud pakapin ug wala gyud ta’y mahimo kay inig gawas sa numero, mapilde man gyud ta,” Carreon said.

The RTWPB is composed of two labor representatives; lawyer Hidelito Pascual and businessman Charles Streegan, representing management; and Sarcauga of the Department of Labor and Employment, Acting director Efren Carreon of the National Economic and Development Authority and Director Asteria Caberte of the Department of Trade and Industry, representing government.

Ventura was disappointed when he went out of the room and refused to comment.

Sarcauga said, new indicators to be considered in the deliberation are gross regional domestic product, unemployment rate, employment rate and among others. He said that many companies will be closed down if they will not also consider their plight.

The biggest business group here, the Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI), earlier said the rise of prices of basic commodities could be artificial and should be looked into deeper before any increase in daily wages is approved.

Streegan, on the other hand, said the wage hike may even cause some business closure and the layoff of some workers.

A wage order issued last September 2010 increased minimum wages in Central Visayas to range from P240 to P285.

However, Sarcauga said that private companies can still file their application if they cannot implement the P20 increase before the DOLE.

“Pwede pa sila dili mo-comply kung mo-file sila og application for exemption before DOLE pero kung ma-disapprove ilang application, nay retroactive na,” Sarcauga said.

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