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Preview: AKLAN FORUM journal
AKLAN FORUM journalBringing Aklan closer to you...Updated: 2010-02-09T20:27:43.486+10:00
0 Comments 2010-02-09T20:21:23.361+10:00  Aklan is moderately affected by El NiñoBY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL KALIBO, Aklan – The province of Aklan is moderately affected by the adverse effects of El Niño, according to the Office of the Provincial Agriculturist. The prolonged dry spell already affected most rice-producing provinces across the country prompting the Department of Agriculture to mitigate measures for the El Niño phenomenon. Provincial Agriculturist William Castillo said the threat of the El Niño in Aklan is moderate compared to the effects of dry spell in Capiz and Iloilo provinces, which is characterized by the ongoing drought and poor rain fall inflicted severe damages to agricultural crops and livestock. ”The provincial government and the DA outlined measures to mitigate the dry spell in the rice, high value commercial crops, corn and fishery sectors. The components are irrigation and water availability, production support, financing, information, education and communication and program management," he said. Castillo said rain-fed hectares in the towns of Altavas, Balete, Malinao, Ibajay, Banga, Batan, Libacao, Madalag, Malay, Buruanga and Numancia are vulnerable to El Niño. Based on the data released by the DA, the province of Aklan has a total land area of 181,816 hectares with 54 percent or 97,653 hectares are devoted to agriculture. Aklan also remains a rice-exporting province with a rice sufficiency level at 117.80 percent, thus complementing the rice needs of other provinces of the excess rice. 
0 Comments 2010-02-09T20:25:35.586+10:00 Drug suspect collared by Boracay police BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL BORACAY – A buy bust operation on Saturday evening yielded a suspected drug pusher in the island resort, the police said. Glenn Deslate, 26, a resident of Tigayon, Kalibo, Aklan, was collared by the Provincial Intelligence and Special Operations Group (PISOG) of the Aklan Police Provincial Office (APPO) in Barangay Manoc-Manoc cargo port. The buy bust operation was conducted in coordination with the Boracay Special Tourist Protection Office (BSTPO) chief of police Supt. Rolando Vilar. The anti-drug police operatives recovered from the suspect one brick of suspected dried marijuana leaves, ten pieces of P100 bill marked money, one pack in calendar paper containing dried marijuana leaves, two pieces of small sealed plastic sachets of suspected methamphetamine hydrochloride or shabu, a matchbox containing two sealed plastic sachets of suspected shabu, stainless bread knife, cellphone, passport and a disposable lighter. Aklan police director Senior Superintendent Epifanio Bragais, Jr. also confirmed the arrest of the suspect in a buy-bust operation carried out by members of PISOG. The suspect is facing criminal charges for violations of Section 5 and 11 of Republic Act No. 9165 otherwise known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. Chief Insp. Aden Lagradante said the recent buy-bust was their second successful operation for this year to crack down illegal drug trade in the province. Last month, the police led by SPO4 Clemencio Nava, Jr. also apprehended two suspects - husband and wife from Capiz - in New Buswang, Kalibo, Aklan for illegal possession of prohibited drugs. Meanwhile, APPO arrested 29 drug pushers and users and filed 37 cases in court in its relentless campaign against illegal drugs last year. 
0 Comments 2010-02-09T20:23:19.261+10:00 Boracay undergoes an Ecological ‘Makeover’BY VINCE G. LOPEZThe ongoing Boracay Island sewage project aims to provide clean potable water to the whole community.Coming soon in Boracay: More tourists and more clean, safe and potable water.The country’s premier tourism destination is currently undergoing a comprehensive infrastructure program that will provide the island with a 100 percent water supply and sewerage coverage.The much-needed ecological “makeover” will dramatically address the concerns of water pollution as well as to ensure that water is made readily available to island visitors.The project is spearheaded by the Boracay Island Water Company, Inc. (BIWC), a joint venture company between Manila Water Company, Inc. and the Philippine Tourism Authority (PTA). The said project was undertaken through a memorandum of agreement signed by Department of Tourism (DoT) Secretary Ace Durano and Manila Water Chairman Fernando Zobel de Ayala as key witnesses, in accordance with the terms and requirements of the 2008 NEDA Joint Venture Guidelines for Government Corporations and the Private Sector.Under the agreement, the JV Company was tasked to develop and operate the existing Boracay Water Supply and Sewerage System (BWSS) in Malay, Aklan. Under the joint venture, the authorized capital stock of the JV Company shall be PhP300 million whereby Manila Water’s equity contribution shall be 80 percent while PTA’s equity contribution shall be 20 percent.Durano said the public — private sector partnership can be likened to a ‘grand slam win,’ noting four key factors such as “support infrastructure as an integral component of sustainable tourism development; the elimination of the water and sewerage constraint, benefiting both existing and new investments in the island; protection and conservation of the natural beauty of Boracay; and the creation of new jobs for locals.”“In 2009, there were 4,000 additional rooms in Boracay alone. More flights are also available, and while this signals a vibrant market, we want to ensure that the island can cope with the increasing demand from tourists, more so now that the global economy is on a gradual upswing,” added Durano.Undersecretary for Tourism Planning and Promotions Eduardo Jarque, Jr. elaborated that “Preserving the island’s ecological wealth is our foremost priority. Promoting the sought-after destination to travellers also entails guaranteeing that the island can provide safe water to the local community and to tourists.”Manila Water has an existing concession in the East Zone of Metro Manila with a customer base of around 5.6 million people. Since the start of operations in 1997, the company has already increased 24-hour water coverage to 99 percent from 26 percent and reduced water losses from 63 percent to less than 20 percent.[...]
0 Comments 2010-02-09T20:27:43.495+10:00 Governor Marquez to enter MOU with PopCom, Aklan SP grants authorityBY BOY RYAN B. ZABALThe Aklan Sangguniang Panlalawigan passed a resolution authorizing Aklan Governor Carlito Marquez to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding with the Regional Population Office for the implementation of responsible parenthood programs in Aklan / PHOTO BY BOY RYAN ZABAL KALIBO, Aklan - Aklan legislative council has approved the authority for Governor Carlito Marquez to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Regional Population Office for the P987,500 funding assistance in the implementation of the Responsible Parenting Program (RPM) and Natural Planning Program.In its 5th regular session yesterday, Provincial Population officer Arturo Teodosio, Jr. got the nod of the Aklan Sangguniang Panlalawigan presided by Vice Governor Gabrielle Calizo-Quimpo authorizing the governor to sign the MOU with the Population Commission.Teodosio said the province of Aklan is the recipient of funding assistance from the regional office of the Population Commission since June 2007, giving emphasis in organizing the Responsible Parenting Movement up to the barangay level in Aklan."At no cost to the provincial government, the program, through this funding and technical assistance, targets to promote natural family planning methods among married couples by mobilizing them to practice responsible parenthood," he said.Teodosio also cited the efforts of Tangalan mayor Gene Fuentes, Balete mayor Noemi Cordero and Altavas mayor Dr. Kathryne Refol in the successful implementation of responsible parent advocacy in the communities.Population Commission, an attached agency of the Department of Health, aims to have an RPM class in every barangay in the country and 4.2 million couples reached this year for the project. In response to the implications of rapid population growth, the national government has promoted the RPM as a major component of the Accelerated Hunger Mitigation Program.In the State of the Province Address last week, Governor Marquez lauded the Aklan Population Office for having contributed to the accomplishment of Western Visayas in the nationwide campaign on best practices on natural family planning.Teodosio said the Aklan Population Office has trained 5,584 couple beneficiaries in 316 barangays of the province and conducted 482 pre-marriage counseling sessions for 1,537 couples.Aklan is the only province in Region VI granted funding assistance by the national government for the Men's Responsibilities in Gender and Development (Mr Gad) program, he added.[...]
0 Comments 2010-02-04T22:07:35.803+10:00 Aklan PNP nets five gun ban violatorsBY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL The intensified campaign on gun ban violations is strongly implemented by the Philippine National Police. So far, five gun ban violators were arrested by the Aklan Provincial Police Office (APPO) across the province / PHOTO BY AKLAN PNP PIO KALIBO, Aklan – Five persons were apprehended by the Aklan Police Provincial Office (APPO) for violations of gun ban imposed by the Commission on Elections (Comelec) in the province. Senior Superintendent Epifanio Bragais, Jr. said the intensified campaign on illegal firearms through checkpoints by the local police resulted to the apprehension of the violators. “There are five violators of the gun ban so far. The latest arrest against a violator happened in Barangay Estancia in Kalibo, Aklan for indiscriminate firing of shotgun. No bail was recommended for his arrest,” he said.Comelec issued Resolution No. 8714 which prohibits the carrying and transport of firearms, ammunitions and deadly weapons during the election period from January 10 up to June 9, 2010.Only bona-fide members of Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine National Police, and law enforcement agencies in proper uniform and while in actual performance of official duty are authorized to carry firearms.Three civilians were among the five persons who were arrested after the 150-days gun ban took effect last month in Aklan. Those arrested are facing charges for violations of the Omnibus Election Code. The number of gun ban violators in Western Visayas rose to 48, with the province of Negros leading other provinces in the region followed by Capiz and Antique. All chiefs of police are directed to conduct checkpoints and police visibility in preparation for the upcoming May 10 polls. [...]
1 Comments 2010-02-04T13:19:16.146+10:00 Cebu Pacific resumes flights to CaticlanCebu Pacific said Tuesday it will resume flights to Caticlan in March, seven months after it stopped flying there following near-misses as a result of its short runway. The budget carrier joined Air Philippines and Zest Airways in suspending flights to Caticlan last July, rerouting their flights to Kalibo and leaving only SeAir to continue serving Caticlan. PAL Express, formerly Air Philippines, resumed flying to Caticlan on Dec. 1 using the Bombardier Q300 turboprop plane. “[Cebu Pacific] is pursuing this gradual transition to Caticlan to make sure our ATR pilots are properly re-certified to operate the route,” vice president Candice Iyog said in a statement. Initially, only four Manila-Kalibo and one Cebu-Kalibo flights to Caticlan will be transferred to Godofredo P. Ramos Airport in Caticlan. Full operations start on March 28, and with 11 Manila-Caticlan-Manila flights and 1 Cebu-Caticlan-Cebu flight daily. Jeremiah F. de Guzaman 
0 Comments 2010-02-04T13:14:25.334+10:00 Guv lauds ASU-Aklan gov’t school of nursing achievementsBY BOY RYAN B. ZABALKALIBO, Aklan – Now critics are not only being answered, but proven wrong, of the latest achievements of the Aklan State University (ASU) and the provincial government’s joint venture.Adding to its many firsts that were accomplished by the province, the ASU and the Provincial School of Nursing produced, in four years time, a board topnotcher and registered an 81.48 percent passing mark after 22 of its 27 nursing graduates passed the November 2009 board exams.Vyklyn Jimeno Testa, cum laude graduate of Aklan State University School of Nursing and a resident of Barangay Cajilo, Makato, Aklan, placed 8th with 85.80 percent in the recent Nursing Board Licensure Examinations.The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) has announced on Sunday that 37,527 out of 94,462 or 39.73 percent passed the nursing board exams held in the cities of Manila, Baguio, Butuan, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Davao, Iloilo, La Union, Legazpi, Lucena, Pagadian, Pampanga, Sulu, Tacloban, Tuguegarao and Zamboanga last November 2009.Iligan City native Clarie Morales Bontol of Iligan Medical Center College, Inc. topped the examination with an 87.80 percent rating followed by Bryan Noel Cueto Asis of Lyceum of Batangas with 87.60 percent and Dickson Araza Laude of St. Scholastica's College of Health Sciences-Tacloban with 87.00 percent.With less than 30 examinees, the ASU School of Nursing was among those first-time provincial nursing schools who performed well in the recent nursing board examinations.In 2005, Aklan Governor Carlito Marquez entered into a joint venture with the Aklan State University for the Associate in Health Science Education and Bachelor of Science curricular courses for deserving nursing students in the province. The joint venture was also cited by Marquez in his State of the Province Address (SOPA) this year as among the first provinces to engage with a university for the establishment of a nursing college.Compared with other nursing schools in the province and Western Visayas, the nursing college offers an affordable education for the less fortunate students in the rural areas. This is in support of Marquez' popular slogan, "owa it ginagaid sa kapobrehan," and his legacy programs on health care services accessible to poor Aklanons.The province through a government loan also funded the construction of the nursing school building in 2008 inside the compound of soon-to-be tertiary hospital, the Dr. Rafael S. Tumbokon Memorial Hospital.The government-run provincial hospital serves as base hospital where more than 200 nursing faculty and students of ASU and other private nursing schools in Aklan are trained or have their related learning experiences (RLEs).[...]
0 Comments 2010-02-04T13:15:06.020+10:00 Boracay Garden Resort offers promo packagesabs-cbnNEWS.com Boracay Garden Resort, a subsidiary of the Boracay Regency Group, has kicked off 2010 by offering introductory pleasure and leisure packages. It is offering P4,000 per person on triple occupancy for a 3 day-2 night stay in a Deluxe Room inclusive of daily breakfast and dinner and roundtrip land and sea transfers. Guests may also get one night free or upgrade to the next room category. Guests may also opt to stay in the Premiere Room for P4,471 per person on triple occupancy. Promo period is until March 31, 2010. Formerly Hotel Seraph, Boracay Garden Resort rests on a two-hectare property located at the center of Station 2. The resort has 201 well-appointed rooms with charming and elegant interiors. It has a mix of deluxe and premiere rooms, as well as premiere rooms with direct access to the pool and family rooms that can fit up to 6 persons. “We are indeed very proud of our newest acquisition. Boracay Garden Resort’s cozy ambience makes your stay in Boracay truly enjoyable and relaxing,” said Henry Chusuey, chairman of the Boracay Regency Group. Each spacious room has a private terrace, wi-fi access, bath tub with separate shower area, individually controlled air conditioning, cable television, direct dial phone, in-room safe, coffee and tea-making facilities and personal refrigerator. Boracay Garden Resort’s modern and Mediterranean-styled accommodations are surrounded by two swimming pools, landscaped gardens and al fresco restaurant and bar. The resort also features private KTV rooms with modern equipment, gym and fitness center and 24-hour standby generators and security. “For our guests’ further convenience, we’ve constructed a private pathway from the resort to the beachfront. This makes it easier for them to hit the beach and enjoy the crystal-clear waters and powdery-white sand of this beautiful island paradise,” added Chusuey. In addition to the on-going renovation, the resort now has a beachfront with 34 beach beds. This reserved area is ideal for guests to lounge and enjoy the scenery while getting the perfect tan. For inquiries on room rates, packages and reservations, call Boracay Garden Resort’s Manila Booking Office at 353-1111 or email manilareservations@boracaygarden.com.ph. 
0 Comments 2010-02-04T13:15:53.058+10:00 Echoes FromBY JOHNNY DAYANG Raising the bar of political debate The political campaign season is now and once again we are now witnessing again the usual gutter mudslinging and pedestrian talk among leading politicians that hardly contribute to intelligent public discourse. Indeed there is a need to veer away from political mudslinging like what many of our Senators are engaged in currently in the Senate. There is an urgent need to raise and the bar of Philippine political debate and educate Filipinos on core issues confronting them and how to choose the more deserving among those seeking public offices. This desired state of affairs involves three principal tasks: 1) definition of the crucial issues demanding resolution by the political leadership; 2) decision by the leading presidential contenders on how they stand relative to these issues; and 3) formulation by the pretenders to high offices of their address and resolve the same issues to advance the country’s national interest and the Filipinos’ welfare. Media leaders and practitioners clearly have a big say in how this desired direction can be set. Instead of falling for the unthinking gimmickry by politicians designed to gain political mileage regardless of how puerile they may be, journalists, particularly the influential leaders and opinion makers among them can help set the tone and direction of public political debate. They can ignore the mundane and pedestrian concerns of politicians and steer discussions to focus on the more profound and crucial issues demanding resolution among the pretenders to high public office, particularly candidates for President. Sound and intelligent public debate among leading political leaders is necessary to properly guide the electorate in choosing whom to vote for President, Vice President, Senators and other aspirants to public offices. In choosing whom to elect, voters must be informed on the candidates’ record of performance in public office, their achievements in private life, their position on pressing issues, and their general political demeanor. Opinion articulators among media practitioners should also help establish optimum level of standards against which voters can gauge and measure the merits and fitness of candidates to the offices they aspire for. This is necessary because while certain political aspirant may be good potential for executive offices, they may totally unfit for legislative positions. 
0 Comments 2010-02-04T13:35:24.540+10:00 KBP Aklan inducts officersBY BOY RYAN B. ZABALBANGA, Aklan – The newly elected officers of the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP) Aklan chapter were inducted into office at the Aklan State University (ASU) conference hall on Saturday evening.Augusto Tolentino, station manager of IBC DyRG Budyong, was inducted as chapter chairman by Provincial Administrator Atty. Diego Luces, who represented Aklan Governor Carlito Marquez for the occasion.Other KBP Aklan chapter officers are PBS-DyIN Bombo Radyo station manager Eril Ibardolasa (vice chairman), RMN DyKR station manager Jerome Vega (performance officer), DYYM CBIS 98.5 Hot FM station manager Terence June Toriano (secretary), ASU-DyMT FM Banga station manager Dr. Anna Mae Relingo (treasurer), Jonathan Cabrera of CBC 106.1 FM Radyo Boracay (auditor) and Eleanor Defensor-Reyes of IBC DyRG (executive secretary).Luces said the strong and united KBP-Aklan and all KBP members from all over the country will continue to thrive being the most credible broadcast media organization guided by broadcasting standards.“’I am fully aware that our Aklanon broadcasters - the voice and the heart of our people – do not meet often at the same place, at the same time. Everywhere, every fleeting minute – significant news to our people, to the public we serve and respect – needs to be served fresh, clear and just. That how ever meager the income you receive from this chosen profession, you are still willing to starve yourselves to feed the public’s mind, to feed our mind,” he stressed.Luces said two events – the death of Press Secretary and former KBP chairman Cerge Remonde and the Maguindanao massacre – are disheartening, but instead of losing hope and giving up the passion to broadcasting, the KBP members were inspired by Remonde, by the slain journalists and by strong men and women who seek refuge and justice from truth.“What happened in Maguindanao though in 2009, the brutal killing of our 30 journalists, became one of the worsts in the history of the KBP, our country and the world. It became more painful, however, to note that fair and fast trial has not yet been fully served to more than 50 victims, brutally shot to death,” he added.KBP also conducted an accreditation exam to its more than 70 members from Aklan, Antique and Capiz and a seminar on responsible broadcasting by KBP legal counsel Regie Jularbal.KBP Metro Manila chairman Reynante “Rey” Langit, a multi-awarded broadcaster and columnist of Tempo, Publishers Association of the Philippines, Inc. (PAPI) president Juan P. Dayang, Aklan Press Club president Dr. Ambrosio Villorente, KBP Internal Relations Committee chairman Manny Luzon, KBP performance officer Virgie Velasco and Dr. Benny Palma of Aklan State University (ASU) also graced the occasion.[...]
0 Comments 2010-01-28T23:57:44.358+10:00 Aklan’s peace and order is manageable – PNPBY BOY RYAN B. ZABALAklan police director Senior Superintendent Epifanio Bragais, Jr. led his chiefs of police for the New Year's call with Aklan Governor Carlito Marquez / PHOTO BY AKLAN PNP PIOKALIBO, Aklan – The Aklan Police Provincial Office (APPO) said the peace and order situation in the province remains to be manageable.Last year, the APPO neutralized 135 wanted persons, of which 115 were arrested and 20 surrendered. Four most wanted persons facing murder, rape and frustrated murder charges were also apprehended by the local police.Senior Superintendent Epifanio Bragais, Jr. said the APPO registered a total crime volume of 2,508 incidents last year, 45.80 percent were index crimes and 54.20 percent or 1,359 were non-index crimes.“The most prevalent crimes recorded for the period were physical injuries and theft, which most cases usually happened in the town of Kalibo and in Boracay Island,” he said.Seven syndicated crime groups and gangs were also neutralized by the local police involved in illegal drugs (Moreno Gang), robbery bond (Delos Reyes Group), robbery and theft (Mabulay Gang), robbery hold-up (Asuncion Gang), pick pocketing, snatching, bag slashing/hold-up (Lopez and Ababao Gang) and carnapping of motorcycles (Ravera Group).APPO also monitored sightings of communist movement members in the far-flung barangays of Madalag, Malinao, Makato, Tangalan, Ibajay and Nabas.Despite the presence of two active guerilla fronts of Komiteng Rehiyong-Panay in the province, there were no significant incident between the local police and the insurgents last year.Bragais said the support of Philippine Army 12th Infantry Battalion and the intelligence community ensure public safety and internal security of the province and the island of Boracay.To strengthen the crime prevention, the APPO has established Barangay Peacekeeping Action Teams (BPATs) for police visibility and beat patrols, he added.In the illegal drugs campaign, the APPO arrested 29 drug pushers and users while 25 cases of illegal possession of firearms were filed in court against the suspects for the 67 loose firearms.A total of 28 fishing boats were also confiscated and arrested 152 fishermen and crew for violation of municipal ordinances on illegal fishing while 10 persons were arrested for illegal logging and confiscated 12,209.40 board feet of assorted lumber worth P254,736.00 and 230 sacks of charcoal.APPO also apprehended 27 persons for illegal gambling and 61 cases on child abuse were filed in court involving 52 abused minors.Police said no incidents of bank robbery, cattle rustling and kidnap-for-ransom were recorded last year. [...]
0 Comments 2010-01-28T09:58:49.029+10:00  ‘Marquez’ administration spells a great difference’BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL KALIBO, Aklan – Expect a jam packed crowd to witness the State of the Province Address (SOPA) of Aklan Governor Carlito Marquez at the Aklan Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) session hall on January 28. SP secretary Odon Bandiola said more than 180 guests were invited to grace the 6th SOPA of Marquez at around 9:30 a.m. during the 4th regular session of the provincial council. “As usual, the Aklan SP secretariat is ready for the SOPA of Governor Marquez. The regular session will be opened by Aklan Vice Governor Gabrielle Calizo-Quimpo at 9 a.m. before the provincial governor delivers his SOPA that will last for more than one hour,” he said. Bandiola said the governor will report the achievements of his administration and present his proposed programs, policies and projects for consideration of Aklan SP, pursuant to Section 465, Paragraph (b), (1.i) and (1.iii) of the Local Government Code of 1992. Among those invited in the SOPA are heads of local and national government agencies, representatives of non-government organizations and people’s organizations, academe and the media. “The administration of Governor Marquez spells a great difference with the upgrading of Aklan into a first-class province after realizing a P600-million annual income based on the report of the Aklan Provincial Treasurer’s Office last year,” Bandiola said. As of this year, the annual budget for General Fund and the Economic Enterprise Development Department (EEDD) is almost a billion pesos, the 3rd highest provincial budget in Western Visayas. Inspired by the successful P40-million bond flotation in early 90’s for the construction of the Caticlan jetty port and terminal, the provincial government is also offering a P260-million bond flotation to the public for the expansion of the facilities in Caticlan and Cagban jetty ports involving the reclamation of the foreshore area to accommodate more tourists and visitors for Boracay Island. “The governor will also mention in the SOPA the accomplishments of the Aklan SP. In the 2007 to 2010 administration of Vice Governor Calizo-Quimpo, the legislative council enacted landmark ordinances, notably, in tourism, investment and incentives, welfare of children and environment,” Bandiola said. The Aklan SP targets to draft the Code of General Ordinances for approval prior to the May 10, 2010 elections and the Executive-Legislative agenda before the terms of Aklan SP members will end by June 30 this year. 
0 Comments 2010-01-28T01:15:33.472+10:00 Kalibo mayoral bet Lachica : I’m not a nuisance candidate BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL KALIBO, Aklan – Branding him as a ‘nuisance candidate’ by critics, former Kalibo vice mayor William Lachica said he will continue his quest for the top post in the capital town of Aklan in the May 10, 2010 elections. Lachica, who is running as Kalibo mayor under Bigkis Pinoy, stressed the allegation of being a nuisance candidate following his three consecutive defeats since 2001, against incumbent Kalibo mayor Raymar Rebaldo, has no basis at all. “I started as barangay kagawad of Andagao, then barangay captain and Sangguniang Bayan for two terms of Kalibo and vice mayor of Kalibo against a formidable opponent. I ran but lost for the mayoral post in a close fight, how could they say I’m a nuisance candidate,” Lachica said, a close friend of Philippine Gaming Corporation (Pagcor) chairman Efraim Genuino, over DyRG Budyong ng Kalibo. The soft-spoken Bigkis Pinoy leader had helped many poor and deserving Aklanons, including supporters of his political opponents, in the barangays through the medical assistance of Pagcor. Lachica said the trust and confidence of the electorates for the past three consecutive elections will remove doubts of his capacity to launch another mayoral campaign. Lachica’s leading rivals are Kalibo Sangguniang Bayan member and Tibyog Akean leader Mark Quimpo, retired police general Efren Fernandez of Grupong Handum and businessman-independent candidate Pablo Beltran, Jr. A candidate is considered nuisance, according to Section 69 of the Omnibus Election Code, if it is shown in his certificate of candidacy (COC) that he intend to “put the election process in mockery or disrepute or to cause confusion among the voters by the similarity of the names of the registered candidates.” 
0 Comments 2010-01-26T23:51:09.896+10:00   2010 Kalibo Ati-Atihan winners get prizesBY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL KALIBO, Aklan - A total of P365,000 prizes were awarded by the Kalibo Ati-Atihan Management Board (KAMB) yesterday for the top winners of the recently-concluded Kalibo Ati-Atihan Festival. In the Tribal Big category, perennial winner Kabog went home P50,000 for the top prize followed by Libtong Boys for P40,000 and third-placer Black Beauty Boys with P30,000. The consolation prizes of P10,000 each went to Tribu Tiis-Tiis and Pangawasan Tribe while Lord Eagles and Alibangbang received P5,000 each. In the Modern category, Scorpio 11-19 was declared winner with P20,000 cash prize, Aeang-Aeang for second place with P15,000 and Enchanting for second runner-up for P10,000 while Parientes, B-Crusis and D'Emagine received P3,000 for consolation prizes. Lilo-anong Ati nga Mananggiti was the grand winner in the Balik-Ati category with P20,000 prize, Salimuno Falls Group received P15,000 for second place and Tribu Isalacan won P10,000 for third place. Apo ni Inday, Tribu Ilayanhon and Kinantu-ing Group went home P3,000 each for the consolation prizes. In the Tribal Small category, Tribu Eamang bagged first place with P30,000, Tribu Osmanon Mangingigi placed second for P25,000 and Morongga Tribe was third place for P20,000. Tribu Timo-Timo, Tribu Bukid Tigayon and Tribu it Panay bagged the consolation prizes of P7,000 each. In the Individual category, Most Original (Authentic Masquerade), Most Modern (Pink Lady Gaga), Most Fantastic (Lady Butterfly), Most Symbolic (Adan) and Most Comical (Absorongsong) for P2,000 each. 
0 Comments 2010-01-26T23:02:34.993+10:00  Hand grenade found by elementary school pupilsBY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL (Akeanon) Sangka granada, nakita it mga estudyante sa guwa it eskwelahan / Bombo Radyo KALIBO, Aklan - Explosives and Ordnance Disposal team of the Aklan Police Provincial Office (APPO) detonated the fragmentation hand grenade found by pupils of Jalas Elementary School in New Washington, Aklan last week. SPO2 Vengie de Pedro of the Aklan Provincial Public Safety Management Company said the MK2-type unexploded fragmentation hand grenade was discovered on January 14 about 2 p.m in a stockpile of gravel near the entrance gate of the elementary school."After they found the grenade, the elementary school pupils alerted barangay kagawad Rolando Agapito who properly turned-over it to the New Washington police station for safekeeping," Repedro told the Aklanforum.  Two days after, the hand grenade was safely disposed in a grassy area near the New Washington municipal cemetery by the Explosives and Ordnance Disposal Team headed by Repedro. He theorized that the fragmentation grenade was brought in the area where it was discovered during the hauling of gravel and sand.Repedro said it is fortunate the hand grenade did not explode and hurt the three elementary school pupils. He also reminded the civilians to contact police authorities immediately once they found explosives and grenades. "Although it did not explode, the grenade is still deadly and could kill anyone if improperly handled. We might conduct awareness orientation in the proper handling of explosive devices in the barangay to avoid similar incidents and to minimize casualties," he said. MK2 is a fragmentation hand grenade used by the United States armed forces during World War II and in Vietnam War. It was phased out gradually and was generally replaced by the M67 and M61 grenades. 
0 Comments 2010-01-25T03:42:00.516+10:00 New ambulance for Aklan Red CrossBY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL KALIBO, Aklan - The Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC) has distributed a rescue ambulance to its local chapter here to respond effectively and efficiently during disasters and other emergencies. The rescue ambulance is equipped with facilities for medical response operations manned by PNRC medics in the province. The distribution of ambulance last week was attended by Dr. Lydia Lobregat Padernal, Aklan PNRC vice chairman Ambrosio Villorente and Aklan PNRC administrator Arcely Pelayo. PNRC Aklan chapter chairman Ronquillo Tolentino said the rescue ambulance allows the Red Cross volunteers to respond quickly during calamities and disasters. The ambulance was co-acquired by Aklan Red Cross and the PNRC through its chairman Senator Richard Gordon. "We now have an ambulance for rescue and emergency which we could send to disaster-related incidents. The vehicle will also provide much needed emergency care to communities in Aklan," said Tolentino, the former vice governor of Aklan. For the past years, Aklan Red Cross has organized housing projects for typhoon victims, assisted in reducing risks through its community disaster risk reduction programs, provided relief assistance to some 8,500 families and blood letting activities with government disaster agencies in the province. In June 2008, Aklan was hit with one of its worst disasters when typhoon Frank caused massive flooding and the destruction of homes, agricultural crops and infrastructures. In response to typhoon struck areas in the province, Gordon turned over more than 600 shelters last year and has launched the emergency response vehicles, rescue boats and vans, motorcycles and fire trucks of PNRC to enhance the rescue and response capabilities nationwide. Aklan Red Cross is part of the largest voluntary organisation in the world, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, which has 100 million volunteers in 187 countries. 
0 Comments 2010-01-25T00:55:16.882+10:00 'Kapihan sa Aklan' has a new homeBY BOY RYAN B. ZABALAfter spending close to two years in Kusina sa Kalibo Restaurant, the weekly Kapihan sa Aklan held its maiden forum in a new venue for the local media and people from all walks of life to discuss relevant issues in the society.Kapihan sa Aklan managing director William Arguelles said that since its launching on March 23, 2008, the weekly forum has gained recognition in Aklan and across the country for institutionalizing the no-holds barred discussion of a wide range of topics."Every Saturday, over a cup of coffee and pandesal, the Kapihan hosted a number of politicians, non-government organizations, businessmen, doctors, engineers, teachers, health workers and government officials," Arguelles said.With the enduring support of Aklan Press Club, Aklan Media Forum and the Publishers Association of the Philippines Inc. (PAPI), Arguelles thanked the management of Kusina sa Kalibo owned by Jesus Lim for the excellent accommodation and partnership during the weekly media forum. "In the Kapihan, the audience are not necessarily the media practitioners, there are tricycle drivers, out-of-school youths and oldies participating in the wider discussion of issues affecting the community," Arguelles stressed. Over the weekend, the media practitioners in Aklan and the Mass Communication students of Northwestern Visayan Colleges, in full force, gathered once again, this time, in Smokehauz Restaurant along Goding Ramos Street owned and managed by Engr. Santos David, to tackle the growing micro small medium enterprises with the Hugod Aklanon Producers Association, Inc. and the Department of Trade and Industry representatives.Joining the Saturday discussion were Aklan Press Club president Dr. Ambrosio Villorente, former Vice Governor Ronquillo Tolentino, Dr. Gabriel Delfin, Secretary to the Sanggunian Odon Bandiola, Madyaas Pen columnist Ernesto Solidum, Bombo Radyo Kalibo assistant manager Jomer Soriano, CBIS Hot FM anchorman Roben Laserna, Conrad Indelible of RGMA DyRU Super Radyo, Arnel Arrieta of Radyo Boracay, Jethro Laserna of Aklan Media Forum, Aklan Headline publisher Che Indelible, Jun Ariolo Aguirre of Hala Birada, Joselito Edwin Ramos of Philippine Information Agency and Lito Motus of the Kalibo Ati-Atihan Tourism Council. In the words of PAPI president Johnny Dayang, the Kapihan sa Aklan is the uninhibited and free-flowing swapping of views that aims to gauge public sentiments and feel the real pulse of the people and will serve as a feedback mechanism for the government to enable it to strengthen the delivery of vital services to the people and forge stronger and closer rapport.[...]
0 Comments 2010-01-26T22:40:26.832+10:00 Gov Lito to deliver his State of the Province Address BY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL http://www.bomboradyo.com/newsdetails1.asp?ID=129281 KALIBO, Aklan - Governor Carlito Marquez will deliver his State of the Province Address (SOPA) on January 28 to report his administration's achievements and plans at the Aklan Sangguniang Panlalawigan session hall. Marquez, who happens to deliver his sixth SOPA since he assumed the leadership of the province in 2004, will focus on agriculture, tourism, health, infrastructures, peace and order, environment, fishery, social services and welfare, employment generation, investments, education and sports development.Among the breakthroughs of his administration are the passage and approval of the P949-million 2010 budget of the provincial government and the all-time high tourist arrivals of 649,559 last year in Boracay Island, of which foreigners accounted 192,873 and domestic tourists posted 432,271 arrivals.Marquez partnered with Aklan Rep. Florencio Miraflores to build a greater Aklan and worked in solidarity and harmonious relationship with the Aklan Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Vice Governor Gabrielle Calizo-Quimpo to deliver the services and much-needed investments for the province. In collaboration with the legislative council, the province enacted the Aklan Tourism Code, Aklan Environment Code and the Aklan Children's Code last year, showing the high regard of the local officials to the protection of environment, growth and welfare of children and tourism as the anchor industry that will propel Aklan's development and progress.The governor also linked arms with Miraflores on vital projects for the province, among others, the farm-to-market roads, aiport development of Kalibo, irrigation projects and primary health care services.Last year, Marquez envisioned the progressive province to implement high-impact projects to generate P1-billion revenues to the government coffers from 2009 to 2013. A P500-milllion Aklan Marina project is being eyed for the construction of a resort and spa, an ocean adventure park and cable car transport system facilities and the building of a 100-room hotel health and wellness center in the next five years.Marquez, in the last SOPA of his second term in office, also pursued the vision for Aklan to become an investment-friendly province by supporting the mega project P2.507-billion Caticlan airport development, opening of new roll-on roll-off route in New Washington, Aklan and the biomass-fueled plant of Asea One Power Corporation in Banga, Aklan.To fully implement health reforms and programs, Marquez also implemented the P1.014-billion five-year Province-wide Investment Plan for Health (PIPH) backed by international support agencies and partners of the Department of Health (DoH).[...]
1 Comments 2010-01-24T19:57:05.853+10:00  Kalibo BFP gets new fire truckBY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL The brand new fire truck of Kalibo fire station donated by the Department of Interior and Local Government through the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) / PHOTO BY BOY RYAN ZABAL KALIBO, Aklan - To improve the firefighting operations, the town of Kalibo received a new fire truck from the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) national headquarters. Kalibo mayor Raymar Rebaldo said the 1,000 gallon-capacity water truck will augment the existing firetrucks of BFP-Kalibo to secure the safety of the public especially when fire break out in the capital town of Aklan, the center of education, trade and commerce. "It is our commitment to upgrade the firefighting facility and capability of the firefighters. We are lucky and thankful to BFP for the new Isuzu fire truck costing P9-million. The fire truck was received by Fire Marshal Patricio Collado and his two men in the BFP headquarters," he said. Rebaldo also expressed his gratitude for the additional P500,000 from BFP earmarked for the construction of new building of Kalibo fire station in Bliss Site. BFP-Kalibo is presently situated beside the municipal town hall building. Out of the 17 towns in the province, there are seven fire protection offices with fire trucks including the local fire bureau in Boracay Island. A fire recently hit the heavily populated area of C. Laserna last year. At least 300 to 400 houses were affected by the blaze and no casualties have been reported. BFP has intensified its year-round fire safety awareness campaign to address the increasing number of fire incidence resulting in substantial losses in property, lives and economic opportunities. 
0 Comments 2010-01-23T01:19:31.164+10:00 Boracay Regency surges to over 600 rooms, suites The Boracay Regency Group has further firmed up its distinction as the biggest luxury hotel group in the country’s most famous island destination.This developed as the group, owner of the 285-room Boracay Regency Beach Resort, acquired the nearby 201-room Seraph Hotel even while completing the construction of the 120-room Regency Lagoon Resort as part of its planned expansion for 2009, thus bringing total capacity to over 600 rooms and suites.However, the group’s acquisition of the Seraph Hotel has pushed the scheduled opening of the Regency Lagoon Resort from this December to April next year.“The postponement will enable us to put everything in order since we suddenly have two new large facilities to attend to at the same time,” said Boracay Regency chairman and president Henry Chusuey.“Seraph Hotel will then be renamed Boracay Garden Hotel, while the other with a 1,200-square-meter pool will be named Regency Lagoon Resort as planned,” Chusuey added.Another 150 employees will be hired for Boracay Garden Hotel and 250 for the Regency Lagoon Resort in addition to Boracay Regency Resort’s current workforce of 550. This will bring the number of personnel to nearly a thousand.“This (number of personnel) makes Boracay Regency certainly the biggest employer on the island,” Chusuey said.“Our huge workforce is an assurance that guests receive the highest possible quality of service,” said Boracay Regency resort manager Dindo Miguel Martin Salazar.“In the housekeeping department, for example, we always have a standby crew to immediately attend to urgent and unexpected requests of guests to make up their rooms,” Salazar said.Nevertheless, Boracay Regency’s unusually large manpower contingent is very visible all over the place, from the airport to the land and sea transfers and in and around the hotel complex itself, all eager to assist guests.The hotel has its own speedboats to ferry guests comfortably from Caticlan in just 10 minutes and vans to bring them from the island’s docking area to the biggest air-conditioned lobby on the island, from where they are then ushered into their respective elegant and luxurious rooms and suites.The hotel has four types of guest rooms — superior, deluxe, premier and family. But there are two types of premier rooms — one with direct access to the pool and another without.The hotel also has four types of suites — junior, executive, honeymoon and royal/presidential. Junior suites are also further classified into those with access to the pool and those without. There are actually three massive, crystalline swimming pools, one each for the north and main wings at the beachfront and another at the garden wing.Located at the middle of the island’s four-kilometer white sand beach, Boracay Regency has the longest frontage of 125 meters that visibly dominates the landscape and makes practically everything accessible in just a short walk away.Boracay Regency also has a grand ballroom, function rooms, fitness facilities, VIP lounge, business center, convenience store, and eight bars and restaurants that include a sunken garden pool bar.The hotel’s Kai Regency Spa has separate Asian-inspired rooms for various health and wellness treatments, including Thai massage.The hotel provides services such as airport transfer, laundry, island-activity booking, foreign exchange, uninterrupted water and power supply, and 24-hour security, among othersThe hotel is surrounded by many aqua sports shops, shopping areas, entertai[...]
1 Comments 2010-01-21T00:01:27.472+10:00  Aklan PNP: 11 political candidates apply for security escortsBY BOY RYAN B. ZABAL KALIBO, Aklan – Eleven personalities in the province are applying for police security escorts from the Commission on Elections (Comelec) for the upcoming national and local elections on May 10, 2010. Aklan police provincial director Senior Superintendent Epifanio Bragais Jr. said the 10 political candidates and a public official filed their applications under oath to the regional security control desks chaired by the Comelec regional election director. Under Comelec Resolution No. 8714, a candidate for public office, including incumbent public officer, and private individual, may, upon application, be assigned regular members of the Philippine National Police or the Armed Forces of the Philippines or the National Bureau of Investigation, and as augmentation, duly license/authorized Protective Agents of private Detective Agencies, to provide security for the duration of the election period. “Only two police security escorts may be assigned to political candidates running for mayor and up and at all times, the escorts deputized by the poll body should wear proper uniforms, If the situation warrants, they could re-apply for two additional protective agents for security,” the police director said. Bragais stressed local candidates for vice mayor to councilors are also allowed to hire two security personnel from protective security and detective agencies. Meanwhile, Comelec also issued a resolution banning candidates and private individuals to carry firearms during the election period from January 10, 2010 to June 9, 2010. Bragais said at least three persons, including a jail officer, were apprehended across the province by the Aklan Police Provincial Office (APPO) in the nationwide gun ban imposed by the Comelec. Another police officer was also investigated for carrying firearms without his prescribed uniform and was involved in a shooting incident injuring two civilians during the Kalibo Ati-Atihan festival. The police officer is under the custody of the Kalibo police chief Senior Insp. Arnolito Laguerta, he added. “Aklan PNP is strictly implementing Comelec Resolution No. 8714 for the total gun ban for the duration of the election period. Only members of the PNP and the AFP are authorized carry, bear and transport firearms while in prescribed uniform and during the actual performance of their official duties,” he said. 
0 Comments 2010-01-19T22:46:17.885+10:00 The Ati-Atihan Festival ROSES & THORNS BY ALEJANDRO R. ROCES (The Philippine Star) The incessant shouting of "Hala Bira!’ and "Viva Santo Niño" and the continuous pounding of drums will reverberate through the air and Filipino Catholics will once more congregate in this tiny island called Panay as they commemorate the Ati-Atihan Festival. Held every third week of January, the Ati-Atihan is said to be the wildest among Philippine fiestas and considered as the Mother of all Philippine festivals. Participants paint their faces with black soot and wear brightly-colored costumes as they participate in this week-long occasion marked with processions, parades, street-dancing, and merry-making in honor of the Santo Niño. The Santo Niño has long been the object of devotion of Filipinos ever since an image was first given as a gift to Juana, Queen of Cebu, in 1521. Amidst the lavish celebration, the Ati-Atihan seems to only show revelry. A closer look, however, shows that it has historic origins. A 13th century event explains the origins of the festival. Long before the Spaniards came to the Philippine islands, a small group of Malay datus, fleeing Borneo, arrived on Panay. The original inhabitants of Panay, the Ati, a small and dark, kinky-haired people, sold to the immigrants a small piece of land and allowed them to settle in the lowlands. Sometime in the distant past, strong rains wiped out the hillside crops of the Atis. Left with no choice, the Atis came down from the highlands to ask for food from the foreign settlers. Blessed with a good harvest, the lowlanders shared their food with the black, kinky-haired people. The Atis danced and sang in gratitude for the helping hand. Since then, the Atis come down yearly to ritually solicit food through song and dance. The lighter-skinned Maraynon, as the Borneans came to be known, got into the spirit of the newly-established friendship by painting their faces with soot and aped the dance of the Atis. Thus the name Ati-Atihan was born. Ati-Atihan means "make-believe Atis" or "to be like an Ati." The coming of the Sto. Niño into the fiesta started with the arrival of the Spaniards to the Philippines. A Spanish representative, Don Antonio Flores, the first encomendero of Aklan, made arrangements with the local leaders of the Atis and the leader of the immigrants from Borneo to have the then existing native celebration be dedicated to the Santo Niño. The early years of the Spanish colonial rule were marked by turmoil and unrest as other tribes defied the Spanish occupation of the islands. This included frequent battles with what the Spaniards called Chinese and Muslim pirates; and, it was during one of these battles that another version of how the Ati-Atihan came to be started. Muslim pirates raided a fort named after the Santo Niño. Fighting valiantly, the cannoneers drove the raiders away. When the smoke of battle cleared, the people went to the fort and shouted "Viva Santo Niño!" When the cannoneers emerged, they were black because of the smoke from the cannons. And the people said they looked like Atis. Hence, the word "Ati-Atihan." Since then, the people celebrate this event by painting themselves black like Atis and shouting "Viva Santo Niño!" and "Hala Bira!" (like telling the cannoneers to shoot). Over the years, the Ati-Atihan Festival has grown to be a little more complicated and has now become a mixture of Catholic ritual, social activity, indigenous drama and tourist attraction. The Ati-Atihan Fes[...]
0 Comments 2010-01-19T22:08:06.063+10:00 Manila Water, PTA tie up for Boracay water projectBY ZINNIA D. DELA PENA (The Philippine Star) Boracay Island Water Co. Inc. (BIWC), a joint venture between Ayala-led utility firm Manila Water Co. Inc. and the Philippine Tourism Authority (PTA) was granted a certificate of incorporation by the Securities and Exchange Commission. Initially capitalized at P300 million, BIWC bagged a 25-year contract to operate and manage the water and sewerage services system on Boracay Island. The contract is renewable for another 25 years. Manila Water owns 80 percent of BIWC while the remaining 20 percent is held by the PTA. Total cost for the 25-year undertaking in Boraca was initially estimated at P1.2 billion. Of this amount, P1 billion will be invested in the first year alone to boost water supply capacity from the present two million liters a day to six million liters daily. BIWC will spend an initial P250 million to upgrade PTA’s two water pumping stations and lay 8.5 kilometers of pipes to make clean water available to Boracay residents and tourists 24 hours a day. At present, there are 3,500 water connections, 700 of which are owned by commercial establishments in Boracay. Manila Water currently has an existing concession in the East Zone of Metro Manila with a customer base of around 5.6 million people. Since the start of operations in 1997, the company has already increased 24-hour water coverage to 99 percent from 26 percent and reduced water losses from 63 percent to less than 20 percent at present. Sewerage coverage in the East concession area has likewise increased by more than 500 percent from only three percent at the start of the concession period to 16 percent at yearend 2008. Manila Water has acquired 100 percent of AAA Water Corp., which services the water requirements of the entire Cabuyao, STa. Rosa city and Binan areas. Overseas, Manila Water’s portfolio include projects in Tiripur, India and Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam. 
0 Comments 2010-01-24T15:21:55.083+10:00 Politicians 'rule' Kalibo Ati-atihan festBY BOY RYAN B. ZABALKALIBO, Aklan - Politicians took advantage of the annual Kalibo Ati-Atihan festival out to win the people's votes.Senator Manny Villar, dressed in orange shirt, and his senatorial candidates - Susan Ople, lawyer Gwen Pimentel, lawyer Adel Tamano, Ilocos Norte Rep. Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and Nacionalista spokesman and former Rep. Gilbert Remulla of Cavite joined tens of thousands of devotees and revelers in the traditional pilgrim mass yesterday at the Kalibo Pastrana Park. Aklan Vice Governor Gabrielle Calizo-Quimpo and his sister Balete mayor Noemi Calizo-Cordero also witnessed the festival with Villar and his senatorial aspirants.Another vice presidential aspirant and Senator Mar Roxas of Liberal Party was welcomed by political leaders led by Tibyog Akean and former Congressman Allen Salas-Quimpo and former Aklan vice governor Ronquillo Tolentino on Sunday morning.The senator, who was wearing his traditional blue polo shirt, shook hands and was asked to pose for photographs with his supporters in the street dancing. Roxas, who hails from Capiz, was joined by Kalibo Sangguniang Bayan member and mayoral bet Mark Quimpo and his councilor-candidates Ronald Marte and Edgar Aranas.Villar and Roxas, both showed up on Sunday for the yearly Ati-Atihan festival in the capital town of Kalibo with their local supporters, are two of the leading presidential and vice presidential aspirants in the coming May 10, 2010 elections. There were also streamers and posters of presidential bets Lakas Kampi Gilbert 'Gibo' Teodoro, Senator Benigno "Noynoy" Aquino III and Senator Richard Gordon greeting the revelers, but, they failed to show up in the festivities. Other personalities seen yesterday were Bacolod city mayor Bing Leonardia, Aklan Rep. Florencio Miraflores, Tourism regional director Edwin Trompeta, League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP) and senatorial bet Dr. Ramon Guico, Interior and Local Government regional director Evelyn Trompeta, senatorial candidate lawyer Raul Lambino, Aklan Governor Carlito Marquez, Kalibo mayor Raymar Rebaldo, Ibajay mayor Maria Lourdes Miraflores and Banga mayor Antonio Maming.Last Friday, Partido ng Masang Pilipino (PMP) senatorial bet and Agusan del Sur Rep. Rodolfo 'Ompong' Plaza also held a press conference with the local media.. [...]
0 Comments 2010-01-23T01:26:32.171+10:00 DOTC to check environment concerns on Caticlan airportThe Philippine Star Department of Transportation and Communications Secretary Leandro Mendoza said they will undertake efforts to address environmental concerns raised by the community against the P2.5 billion Caticlan airport project to be undertaken by a private proponent. Mendoza, in an interview at the groundbreaking of the said airport project on Friday said that President Arroyo as guest of honor, admitted they have been apprised of the concerns raised by some groups in Caticlan about the planned levelling of a hill beside the Caticlan airport. “We’ll address these concerns,” Mendoza told The STAR. “We’ll make sure that these questions are answered and checked if an environmental impact study has already been conducted,” Mendoza said. However, Mendoza said that the upgrade of the Caticlan airport, to be undertaken by the Caticlan International Airport Development Corp. under a build-rehabilitate-operate-transfer scheme, will still go full steam ahead while the concerns are addressed. “Tuloy tuloy ’to. The only thing that can stop it is if a TRO is issued by a court,” Mendoza said. It will be recalled that the Boracay Foundation, Inc., composed of environmentalists and businessmen based in Boracay, had recently aired concerns about the Caticlan airport upgrade project, citing possible adverse environmental effects the levelling of the hill will do to Caticlan and the ecology of the world-famous tourist mecca, Boracay island. – Rainier Allan Ronda  |
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